Hot Rock Boiling to Purify Water

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Most of us know that boiling is one of the most effective methods to purify drinking water in the wild. In mere minutes, boiling can destroy any nasty viruses, bacteria, protozoa, and other waterborne pathogens that could otherwise wreak havoc in your digestive system or kill you.

However, boiling water off the grid may not be as easy as it sounds. Unless you have a sturdy single-walled metal water bottle, canteen, or pot, you can't simply toss it into the fire and wait for the water to boil.

Most metal water bottles are insulated, and cannot be exposed to direct flame for boiling.

Most metal water bottles are insulated, and cannot be exposed to direct flame for boiling water.

Notice we said single-walled water bottle—the popular double-walled or insulated bottles found at many stores must not be placed on an open flame, and may even explode from the heat. Composite and plastic bottles can't take the heat either, and will begin to melt over the flames. So, how do you boil water if you don't have a metal vessel to boil it in?

Hot rock boiling stones

Rocks are available almost everywhere on earth, and can be used to boil water through heat transfer.

The answer is both simple and ancient: hot rock boiling. You can simply heat several rocks over a campfire, then pick them up with sticks, and drop them into the water vessel of your choice. The residual heat of the stones will heat the water rapidly, and eventually bring it to a boil, purifying it.

Here's a video that shows how it works (you may want to mute the audio if you're not a fan of smooth jazz):

Notice in the video, hand-carved wood vessels are used, and the rocks are rinsed to remove ash and soot before adding to the drinking water. Both of these are smart choices—although small amounts of ash from the campfire may not be harmful to drink, they certainly won't taste good.

Water over rocks

A few more tips:

  • Your rocks should be heated for about 10-15 minutes to reach an adequate temperature.
  • Never place rocks back on the fire immediately after placing them in the water. They may crack or explode.
  • If you don't have a water vessel, you can boil water in the ditches or pools found near a lake or stream bank. This will require building a fire near the river bank, however.
  • To be safe, it's recommended to boil the water for at least one minute, especially at higher altitudes (since water boils at a lower temperature there).

Infographic: How to Survive Hypothermia

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Over the last few days, a record-breaking blizzard known as Winter Storm Jonas dumped several feet of snow across the eastern United States, causing at least two dozen deaths. Major storms like this can be life-threatening, especially if you're stuck outdoors and unprepared.

Winter shelter mountains

Don't venture into the outdoors this winter without being mentally and physically prepared.

So, now is the time to learn how to diagnose, treat, and survive hypothermia. That way, if you're caught in a snowstorm, you'll know the warning signs and how to react.

We love infographics for their ability to condense useful facts into a visually appealing and memorable format. This infographic from Eastern Mountain Sports illustrates some useful tips about hypothermia:

How to Survive Hypothermia infographic

Wearing layers, maintaining a high core temperature, and staying dry will give you a good head start towards staving off the cold. However, in case you're stuck outside in the snow for an extended period, you should also know how to build a winter snow shelter.

Small items like Mylar emergency blankets and chemical heat packs can be a life-saver, and they don't weigh much or take up valuable pack space. Consider keeping a few in your go bag and/or your vehicle's glove box. Most of all, plan ahead and prepare to deal with the cold when you leave the house. It might just save you this winter.

Stashing Essential Gear, Just in Case

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There are a few things in life that are just necessary evils — things that we all recognize are necessary, but hate doing just the same. Things like going to the dentist, purchasing life insurance, or preparing our last will and testament come to mind. Another necessary evil I find quite objectionable is the concept of caching a firearm. The idea of spending hard-earned money on a firearm whose only purpose is to be secured in a secret location, never to be used or enjoyed except in the most dire of circumstances is one such evil. But the real question becomes, is it necessary?

The practice of caching dates back to when man first walked on two feet. Quite simply, caching is the act of secretly hiding provisions or supplies for use at a later time. Caches can be as small as a candy bar and a bottle of water or they can occupy an entire warehouse. The size of a cache depends entirely on its purpose and your ability to properly secure it. The concept of saving supplies for use at a later date does not work very well if those supplies are either stolen or eaten prior to their retrieval. Let's review three critical aspects of a creating a successful cache: preparation, security, and accessibility.

Preparation is Key

First and foremost, preparation of the items to be cached is of utmost importance. Food items must be selected based upon their ability to be stored for long periods of time. Prepackaged items that are specifically designed for long-term storage such as military-style Meals Ready-to-Eat (MRE) or commercially available freeze-dried emergency food supplies are perfect for any food cache. The convenience of using prepackaged meals for small to midsized caches outweighs the preparation and cost savings of preparing canned food oneself.

food-provisions-for-a-cache

Larger caches that are designed to sustain several people over long periods of time will benefit from a combination of prepackaged emergency food supplies, store-bought canned food, and provisions prepared by the individual. As new canned food supplies are acquired or produced, older supplies can be used to ensure a periodic rotation of supplies. This practice keeps supplies from getting too old and verifies that one's canning processes are being performed properly — so the food is not spoiled after being stored for a long period of time.

Care must be taken to ensure that all food supplies are carefully packed without compromising the integrity of the vacuum-sealed packages or containers. If the seal is damaged, the food will spoil over time and become inedible. One small piece of advice if you do choose to can your own food for a cache: include a couple of small can openers taped to the cans. Little things like this will make life immeasurably easier should the time ever come that you need to access your cache.

If you decide to include a firearm and ammunition in your cache, additional preparations are needed. While ammunition is by definition a self-contained item, it will corrode if exposed to moisture over long periods of time. Any type of corrosion will reduce the reliability of ammunition, causing misfires and, in extreme cases, failure to properly chamber in your firearm. While any type of ammunition can be properly prepared for long-term storage, a quicker alternative is to consider using surplus military ammunition. Most ammunition produced for the military is required to be packaged for long-term storage regardless of its anticipated use.

Military ammunition containers are constructed of metal with a convenient carry handle and a rubber gasket to seal out moisture and dirt. Additionally, small arms containers are designed to be stacked upon one another for more efficient use of available space. Surplus military containers come in different shapes and sizes and, due to their weatherproofing, are easily adapted to fill the roll of a cache container. Many types are available for purchase cheaply online as well as at your local military surplus store.

military-ammunition-containers

Another storage option is the MTM Case-Gard Survival Ammo Can (SAC). The SAC is a three-piece storage container, purpose built for being buried underground. It uses a double O-ring sealed lid and protective cap to secure items inside the bucket-shaped container, sized to hold around 500 rounds of ammunition (but any items that fit into the SAC can be safely stored). A Vapor Corrosion Inhibitor plastic bag and desiccant pack is included with every SAC. Should you choose to use a different container, ensure it has a good vacuum seal and consider the addition of silica gel packs. They will ensure that any moisture trapped inside the container when sealed will be absorbed.

Similarly, when preparing firearms, the elimination of moisture is a critical step. The last thing one wants to see when retrieving a cached firearm is a rust-covered piece of junk that will not function. In addition to a properly sealed container with silica gel packs, you should consider a moderate coating of grease on all exposed metal parts and inside the bore of the barrel as an additional barrier against rust and corrosion.

Secure it Now or Lose it Forever

In real estate, there is a saying — “Location, location, location.” The same advice can be applied to securing a cache. The location is the second critical part of a successful cache. Before we can select a secure spot for it, we need to understand the intended purpose of the cache. Is it designed to fully resupply our provisions, or is it just a pit stop on the way to a larger cache or bug-out location? Is access to the cache needed relatively quickly, or is there time to retrieve a more securely prepared one? Smaller caches meant for quick resupply may require a less secure location in exchange for quicker access. Larger caches that contain the bulk of your supplies may require more effort to secure, increasing the time needed to access them.

Once we have defined the purpose of our cache, our next chore is to choose a suitable location. The desired speed of access to our cache will determine how securely it is hidden. Quick access may require something simple like a camouflage tarp mixed with some foliage or a shallow hole dug into the ground. Sinking a watertight container with a cinderblock and a retrieval cord is another effective method for securing a small cache for quick retrieval, provided you can secure the cord!mtm-case-gard-survival-ammo-can

Larger or more substantial caches may require a larger, deeper hole or a secure underground container. Regardless of the size of our cache, it must be secured not only from humans, but also from any four-legged (or creepy crawly) raiders. With any type of food provisions, care must taken to ensure no scent traces are left on the container or can escape from it. Failure to do so will result in quite a nice meal for Yogi Bear.

Access Denied

The final part of a successful cache is access. Having the best location in the history of caches does one no good if you can't access it when needed. A cache along a riverbank is a great hiding location, until the river floods and sweeps your container away or your access road to the river is flooded. A hidden location at the base of a remote mountain is a great choice until winter snows cause closure of the access roads or torrential rains turn the roads into an impassible muddy mess.

Another consideration is who actually owns the land you select for a cache? If the property does not belong to you, will you still have access to it when needed? Stashing supplies on remote private property may seem like a good idea until the landowner blocks access to the property — or worse yet, in your time of need, you discover the land was sold and a new shopping mall sits on top of your carefully hidden cache.

Enter Mossberg's JIC

Recognizing the wisdom in the concept of preparing a cache, Mossberg introduced the Mossberg Just in Case (JIC) series. The JIC series consists of a Mossberg 500, 12-gauge shotgun outfitted with only a pistol grip and no shoulder stock to reduce the overall size for storage. All JIC shotguns are capable of handling up to 3-inch shotgun shells and have either a six- or eight-round magazine tube, depending upon the model.

As part of the JIC series, several JIC shotguns are packaged in a waterproof storage tube with carrying strap. They are available in the Mariner, Cruiser, Sandstorm, and Patriot. A survival kit-in-a-can is included with the Cruiser, and a multitool and knife are included with the Mariner, which features a tough Marinecote finish. The Sandstorm is finished in a desert camo pattern, and the Patriot's storage tube proudly displays the American flag.shot-gun

Combining a Mossberg JIC series shotgun with a MTM Caseguard SAC stuffed with ammunition, emergency food supplies, and water makes for a small cache that can effectively deal with a variety of emergency situations.

The concept of caching provisions and supplies is nothing more than insurance. It's the ultimate solution to the ultimate “what if” question. What if a situation arises and you are completely cut off from retrieving any supplies from your home? What if a flash forest fire has burned your home down to the foundation, or a tornado has spread your home over the next three counties? What if the only things you possess are literally the clothes on your back and the vehicle under your butt? When facing the possibility of this type of crisis, does the practice of caching firearms, supplies, and provisions become necessary? Absolutely.

Offgrid Tips

Silica Gel Desiccant Packs

silica-gel-packets

Be careful reusing silica gel packs that you've pulled out of other packaging — they may have already become saturated and no longer functional. It's easiest to use fresh packets, but you can also reactivate silica gel by heating them in your oven. Many packs can be recharged at 250 degrees for a couple of hours. Depending on the size of the packs to be recharged, the time and temperature will differ. A quick search online will net you more detailed instructions.

When Packing a Firearm in Your Cache

Here's another little hint — pack some cloth, a bore snake, and a small bottle of lubricant along with the firearm to wipe off the grease and to quickly clean out the bore of the barrel. Once you've done this, a few drops of oil and a function check will ensure your firearm is ready for use.

ofm-jic-m500-cruiser

Stashing Essential Gear, Just in Case

  • Mossberg JIC Cruiser

    Make & Model - Mossberg JIC Cruiser
    Caliber - 12 gauge
    Barrel Length - 18.5 inches
    Overall Length - 31 inches
    Magazine Capacity - 6
    Weight Unloaded - 5 lbs, 8 oz
    MSRP - $494
    URL - www.mossberg.com
    Features - Water-resistant tube with carry strap
    Survival kit in a can
    Resealable plastic storage pouch


    The Mossberg JIC Cruiser is a container for your ammo that is a water-resistant tube with a carry strap for your convenience.

  • MTM Case-Gard Survivor Ammo Can

    Make & Model - MTM Case-Gard Survivor Ammo Can
    Capacity - 423.5 cubic inches (same as a 50-cal. ammo can)
    Outside Dimensions - 10-inch diameter, 13.5-inch height
    Inside Dimensions - 7-inch diameter, 12.4-inch height
    Weight - 3 lbs, 6.5 oz
    MSRP - $30
    URL - www.mtmcase-gard.com
    Features - Double O-ring sealed lid
    Vapor corrosion inhibitor plastic bag
    Desiccant pack


    The MTM Case-Gard Survivor Ammo Can has a double O-ring sealed lid and a vapor corrosion inhibitor bag to keep your ammo safe for when you need it.

  • Tacti-Cool Guns & Gear, Inc. 120mm Ammo Tube

    Source & Item - Tacti-Cool Guns & Gear, Inc. 120mm Ammo Tube
    Outside Dimensions - 8-inch diameter, 44.5-inch height
    Inside Dimensions - 6.25-inch diameter, 38.5-inch height (approx.)
    Weight - 21 lbs
    URL - www.facebook.com/TactiCoolGunsGearInc

    Check out the Tacti-Cool Guns & Gear, Inc. 120mm Ammo Tube that is perfect to keep your ammo ready and unspoiled.

U.N. Emergency Recon Drones

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The term drone has become a bit of a buzzword lately, for a number of reasons. On one hand, we have hovering drones that can deliver packages or assist with search and rescue missions. On the other hand, we have the questionable ramifications of unmanned military drones destroying targets from afar. No matter what your opinion of the technology is, aerial drones are definitely here to stay.

Drone-to-Car Communications

A recon drone like this one from DJI will be launched from a moving vehicle.

At the forefront of technological growth, Ford has announced a new partnership with drone manufacturer DJI to launch the Drone-to-Vehicle Developer Challenge. This challenge is designed to encourage software developers to “create a rapidly deployable surveying system for use by the United Nations in emergency zones.” As incentive, the winning developer who accomplishes the challenge will receive a prize of $100,000.

So, what exactly is the Drone-to-Vehicle Developer Challenge? According to DJI, developers must program emergency recon drones that can complete the following tasks:

  • Quickly take off from a moving vehicle
  • Autonomously enter the “disaster area”
  • Survey the area, recognize objects, and create a map of the scene
  • Gather information on the location of “survivors”
  • Transmit the information back to a computer system in the launch vehicle (potentially using Ford SYNC AppLink or OpenXC technology)
  • Return and land on the moving vehicle

Emergency recon drones Ford F150

The Ford F-150 launch vehicle could be driven near a disaster zone by United Nations personnel, then the drone could take off to survey areas hit hard by earthquakes, tsunamis, or floods. The U.N. personnel would be able to control the drone remotely and receive real-time updates, all without leaving the safety of the F-150's cab.

According to Ford, future applications of this semi-autonomous vehicle-launched drone technology “could include agriculture, forestry, construction, bridge inspection and other work.” The contest ends on March 10th, 2016, so we should be seeing more updates on this technology later this year.

For more information, click here to read the full Ford press release.

Morse Code & Why You Should Learn It

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It's easy to think of Morse code as an outdated system of communication. After all, when was the last time the postman came to your door and handed you a telegram? Considering this messaging system had already begun its descent into obsolescence by the late 1800s, we'd be willing to bet it has never happened.

However, we'd argue that the underlying ability to communicate via Morse code remains an extremely important skill to this day. Although it may seem archaic, this simple alphabet of dots and dashes can be used to communicate beyond language barriers and convey essential information covertly—taking the time to learn Morse code might even save your life someday.

Jeremiah Denton's Morse Code Message

Morse code can save lives. That's a bold claim, so we'll share some incredible examples of it doing just that.

Back in July 1965, U.S. Naval Aviator Jeremiah Denton was taken prisoner by the North Vietnamese after the A-6A Intruder jet he was piloting was shot down over the city of Thanh Hoa. Denton and his navigator were held as POWs for almost eight years in the now-infamous “Hanoi Hilton” prison camp.

Denton would later recount tales of being beaten with fists and fan belts, and how his captors used ropes to cut off blood circulation to his limbs. He wrote, “I prayed that I could keep my sanity until they released me. I couldn't even give in to their demands, because there were none.”

Denton was also forced by his North Vietnamese captors to participate in a televised propaganda press conference in 1966. While he spoke in front of the camera, claiming that he was being fairly treated, he simultaneously blinked in Morse code to spell out “T-O-R-T-U-R-E”. This ingenious and defiant act secretly sent a message to the U.S. Military about the real conditions he had endured.

Denton's coded message was one of the first clear confirmations of prisoner torture by the North Vietnamese forces, and may have changed the course of the Vietnam War. He was eventually released from captivity, went on to become a U.S. Senator, and lived to the age of 89 back home in Virginia Beach.

“Better Days”and Musical Morse Code

“Ok,” you might be thinking, “but that was 50 years ago.” Here's a more contemporary example of Morse code saving lives in 2010.

In Colombia, a Communist guerrilla movement known as FARC had been active in assassination, kidnapping, ransom, and other terrorist activities since 1964. Their goal was to destabilize the Colombian government and establish a new regime.

Learn morse code FARC guerrillas

A DEA photo of FARC guerrillas marching in formation, circa 2006. Source: Wikipedia

By 2010, a number of soldiers had been kidnapped by FARC and held in a brutal hostage camp deep in the jungle. Knowing this, Colombian army Colonel Jose Espejo set out to communicate with his stranded men and inform them rescue was nearby—but without tipping off the FARC guerrillas of their intentions.

Since guerrillas often had radios playing music in their jungle camps, a plan was formed to broadcast a secret message to the hostage soldiers over the radio. Most of the FARC guerrillas were farmers with no military communications training, so Colonel Espejo figured they wouldn't know Morse code. On the other hand, many of the captured Colombian soldiers did know Morse code.

Learn morse code radio

Although the hostages were cut off from most outside influences, they were within earshot of radios.

Espejo coordinated with a composer, musicians, and various radio stations to produce and broadcast a song called “Better Days” that included a secret Morse code message to the hostages: “19 people rescued, you're next. Don't lose hope.” The code was hidden in the form of a synthesizer interlude that played 3 times throughout the song, and the song's lyrics even hinted at the code's presence.

Click here to play “Better Days” on Soundcloud. The coded message is first audible after the chorus at the 1:30 mark.

The song was broadcast to over 3 million people, and eventually reached the hostages. Amazingly, the plan worked, and many soldiers were able to escape the camp and reach Colombian military forces nearby. Espejo later said, “We know of hostages who heard the message and were able to escape and provide information that led to the release of more hostages.” FARC eventually announced a unilateral ceasefire on July 8th, 2015.

To read more about “Better Days” and the Morse code message sent to hostages, check out this article from The Verge.

How Morse Code Works

A map of international telegraph lines from 1891. Source: Wikipedia

A map of major international telegraph lines from 1891. Source: Wikipedia

Now that you know the practical uses of Morse code, it's helpful to understand how it originated.

The history of Morse code is forever intertwined with that of another invention: the electrical telegraph. This is unsurprising, given the fact that the most widely adopted telegraph system was invented in 1837 by Samuel Morse. In essence, Morse's telegraph used simple on-off electrical pulses sent over a long-distance wire to another telegraph machine on the other end.

The original Samuel Morse telegraph. Source: Wikipedia

A diagram of the original Samuel Morse telegraph. Source: Wikipedia

In order to communicate over the newly-invented telegraph system, Morse and his assistant, Alfred Vail, developed the alphabet now known as Morse code. Short pulses, sometimes called dots, and longer pulses, called dashes, were combined to form letters. Pauses were also added to indicate spaces between words.

Learn morse code alphabet

The basic Morse code alphabet.

This system went on to become the most popular long-range communication technology until the widespread adoption of the telephone in the beginning of the 20th century. However, even after the end of the telegraph, Morse code has continued to see use in various fields today.

How to Learn Morse Code

Clearly, learning Morse code is a valuable skill for any survivalist, but it's not exactly an easy skill to pick up. The traditional way to learn this language is by spending hours studying and memorizing a chart like the one seen above. Needless to say, this is time-consuming, and provides no correction or feedback if you make mistakes. Fortunately, there's an easier way to learn, and you don't even have to leave your couch.

Learn morse code website

Morsecode.io is a web site that offers free interactive Morse code training.

Morsecode.io is a free interactive online tool, and it provides practical (and dare we say, fun) lessons on Morse code. By tapping your mouse or spacebar, you can sound out each letter or word, and the program gives instant audio and visual feedback. Be warned—this tool can eat up a lot of time, but we'd say it's well worth it.

Click here to start learning Morse code on Morsecode.io.

–. — — -.. / .-.. ..- -.-. -.- .-.-.-

Washing Clothes Without Electricity

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Staying healthy is essential to staying alive, there's no question about that. We also know that staying clean is one of the easiest ways to stay healthy. Cleanliness prevents the growth of bacteria, fights infection, and keeps you looking fresh and smelling good.

Washing clothes without electricity

Electric washing machines have become ubiquitous in our society, and few people wash clothes by hand anymore.

We apply this same philosophy to our clothes, whether that means washing them in a machine at home or at a local laundromat. Unless part of your survival plan is to disguise yourself as a homeless person if SHTF, you'll probably want to continue keeping your clothes clean, even if you don't have access to washing machines or electricity.

Washing clothes without electricity 2

Two wash basins, a corrugated metal washboard, and a manually-operated wringer. There's not much to it.

So, what's the best method of washing clothes without electricity? Well, there's the time-tested method of a wash basin, washboard, and a wringer that was used for hundreds of years. However, this method requires a lot of elbow grease and access to specialized tools—not many of us own washboards these days.

Washing clothes without electricity

Do you have one of these in your home, and know how to use it? If so, you're in the minority.

Luckily, there's a better way: the DIY bucket and plunger washing machine. Here's what you'll need:

  • Two clean 5-gallon plastic buckets, one bucket lid
  • Clean rubber toilet plunger
  • Hole-punching tool (the video below uses a power drill, but an awl or screwdriver and hammer would work)
  • Water, detergent, and dirty laundry
  • Optional: Cordage and a carabiner for the “spin cycle” dryer

This video illustrates how the DIY washing machine is built and operated:

Even if you're scavenging for supplies in an urban disaster zone, these items shouldn't be too difficult to acquire. If all you've got to wear is the clothes on your back, clean laundry will leave you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated …and a whole lot more hygienic.

Escape Zip Tie Handcuffs

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In a SHTF scenario, it's entirely possible that you could end up kidnapped, held hostage, or otherwise restrained by criminals. In this type of situation, captives are often restrained by improvised means. That is to say, criminals are usually not going to use high-end handcuffs. More often than not, they're going to use something that cost $5 at the local hardware store: zip ties.

Escape zip tie handcuffs illegal restraint 2

Plastic zip ties or cable ties are commonly used as improvised illegal restraints.

Before we go any further, a disclaimer: this is not a guide on how to escape law enforcement restraints, nor would these methods work on the specialized zip-tie-style handcuffs used by police. That said, the following methods can help you break free from the consumer-grade zip ties that criminals would be likely to use.

The Art of Manliness put together a useful infographic that illustrates 3 ways to escape zip tie handcuffs:

Escape zip tie handcuffs illegal restraint 1

The “slipping out” method requires enough forethought to trick your captors into cuffing your hands in a specific position. If you can manage that, great, but it's likely your hands will be quickly and forcibly cuffed beyond your control. Zip tie quality varies greatly, so breaking the ties may be easy with some brands, and nearly impossible with others.

We'd say the most reliable method is “shimming out” the lock mechanism with a key, pen, screwdriver, or any other small hard implement. Feel free to try it safely at home—it's not hard once you get the hang of it.

For more information on how to escape zip tie handcuffs and other illegal restraints, check out the 41-minute video above from ITS Tactical. It also covers dealing with duct tape, rope, and legally-purchased handcuffs, and provides a wealth of useful information.

1994 Toyota Land Cruiser – Off-Grid Rig

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When crap meets fan, the most common response city folks have will be to use their cars to get out of the proverbial toilet. But if you think you're going to pack your go-bags and your family into a PT Cruiser and evade the incoming catastrophe on the highway, you're seriously mistaken. History has proven that when wide-scale emergencies strike unexpectedly, freeways become giant parking lots. City streets get jammed like strawberries with panicked people hoping to get out of Dodge. And short of flagging a rescue helicopter or utilizing a DeLorean to jump space and time, you'll be stuck to ride out the calamity wherever you happen to be — unless you have a bug-out vehicle.

For urbanites, bugging out (or evacuating when danger is imminent) is possible only in a vehicle that can handle the terrain when the pavement ends and the backcountry begins. And that's just the start. So, even a stock pickup truck won't cut it, let alone a family sedan.

Clayton York understood this concept well. As an import-car enthusiast, he knew his way around an engine bay, which also meant he knew the inherent limitations of using, say, a lowered Subaru Impreza WRX in a SHTF scenario. So, applying his knowledge as a car nut, York set out to build a truck that could serve as both a camping mule and a hardcore off-grid rig. He accomplished his goal of building this Toyota Land Cruiser after two years, more than $30,000, and a lot of assistance from friends — such as his former employer Adventure Trailers and ex-coworkers David and James Argust, who helped with custom coatings and some woodwork.1994-toyota-land-cruiser-cleared-out-trunk

Whether you're looking to soup up your commuter for some outdoor adventures or you've already begun building your own Landmaster for a Damnation Alley-style dystopian future, read on. You're sure to pick up a few prepper pointers.

Make and Model

Let's be clear: there's not one be-all, end-all automobile to start with when building a rig for the end of the world as we know it (TEOTWAWKI). Car, truck, SUV, or ATV? Everyone's situation is different, so the make and model of your vehicle is highly dependent on your needs, driving skills, surrounding environment, and (perhaps most significantly) the size of your wallet.

Money's no object? Then consider an overland expedition vehicle. Some combine the luxuries of a high-dollar RV with the powerful capabilities of a heavy-duty work truck, such as the EarthRoamer XV-LT (www.earthroamer.com). Others, like the Survivor Truck (www.survivortruck.com) featured in Issue 8 of our sister publication RECOIL, are geared more toward security and surveillance — it is resistant to electromagnetic pulse attacks, after all. Maybe you're good on two wheels and plan to face the apocalypse solo? Consider a dual-sport bike, which can easily slip through traffic jams and handle wooded or desert terrain with ease (see RECOIL Issue 10 for proof).1994-toyota-land-cruiser-trunk-full-of-equipment

York needed a rig that would be affordable and versatile. He looked for an SUV that could work as a daily driver, a camper, and a SHTF rig. While other preppers like to use Ford Raptors, Jeep Wranglers, or Toyota Tundras as the base for their “bug-out-mobiles,” York sought out an 80-series Toyota Land Cruiser and found a 1994 model that fit the bill for just $2,200.

Engine

Why an older Land Cruiser instead of, say, a brand-new Corolla? Well, aside from the lack of cargo space, the sedan has a 1.8L engine, which is a puny. Think about it this way: a 2-liter soda bottle holds more volume. An off-road vehicle, and specifically a bug-out rig, needs to have a powerful motor to meet the brutal demands Mother Earth will put on it.

With four-wheel drive and a 4.5L six-cylinder engine, the Land Cruiser had the heart and the legs to grow into an off-road beast. York had just one problem with the Land Cruiser he found: it had a blown engine. That didn't faze the car nut, who replaced the motor and related parts at an additional cost of $2,800. He also added a Safari Snorkel system with an air ram that can rotate, ensuring that the engine not only gets cool, clean air, but is also protected from precipitation — whether he's driving over a small creek or through a snow storm.

Suspension

Very rarely does a factory suspension system come even remotely close to meeting the demands of off-road driving. Encounter a TEOTWAWKI scenario? Forget about it! A stock truck will just get stuck in a ditch or hung up on some rocks.1994-toyota-land-cruiser-undercarriage

So, York had Nichols Autofab in Prescott, Arizona, replace the worn suspension with brand-new OEM heavy-duty shocks and springs, as well as 30mm polyurethane rear-spring spacers — all of which help the Land Cruiser absorb hard landings, whether they come from driving down from higher elevations or from evading danger over bumpy terrain. The Land Cruiser also has a 3-inch lift kit with adjustment brackets so that it can better clear obstacles, such as road debris, fallen trees, or downed power lines. He also installed new OEM lockers with a center differential lock switch, which provides extra traction by forcing both wheels to turn in unison.

Wheels and Tires

Some people think that all they need to drive off-road is a powerful 4WD truck with hardcore suspension. What they fail to realize is that without complementary wheels and tires, they'll be going nowhere fast. If the wheels aren't strong enough, they can actually deform under all that torque and compression delivered to it by the axle and the force of gravity. Low-quality tires can easily disintegrate once driven off asphalt, while the wrong type of traction could send your vehicle spinning into a rock face or careening into a ditch.

York installed powdercoated OEM wheels because they're reliable and time-tested, rather than go with flashy aftermarket wheels that can crack. He swapped out the tires for a set of Toyo Tires Open Country A/T II. These “meats” have an aggressive, wear-resistant tread design with deep groves, tough sidewalls, zigzag sipes, and stone-ejecting blocks — all of which help to maintain traction in dirt, mud, and snow. Being all-terrains, the Open Country provides a relatively quiet ride on asphalt compared to chunkier mud-terrain tires without sacrificing any noticeable performance on or off-road. This versatility will serve York during a widespread emergency, considering he wouldn't want to waste valuable minutes mounting not one, but four tires.1994-toyota-land-cruiser-mounted-spare-tire

The Land Cruiser also has a 4-pound air tank mounted in the front bumper. Because you need to air down the psi of your tires for certain off-road terrain, the air compressor is handy to pump up your meats when it's time to return to pavement or to work pneumatic tools.

Body Armor

If you're heading off-grid, you'll need protection and so will your vehicle. While regular bumpers are meant to absorb the impact of a traffic collision, a bug-out truck won't likely get into any fender-benders in the backcountry. Instead, it'll need body armor to deflect hazards like rocks and tree branches.

York elected to remove the factory bumper and install an ARB Bull Bar, which provides superior protection while integrating mounts for lights, antenna, tow points, and limb risers. Speaking of limb risers, these are essentially taunt steel wires that run from the Bull Bar to the roof rack to prevent thick tree limbs from smashing the windshield. Outback Proven out of Las Vegas, Nevada, supplied York with a Kaymar bar that not only reinforces the rear, but also contains carriers for a spare tire and a fuel can.1994-toyota-land-cruiser-storage-on-the-roof

Recovery Tools

It's nearly impossible to drive in remote areas and not get stuck, whether it's hitting a patch of soft sand, getting caught in deep snow, or finding yourself “high-centered” on a rocky cliff. To stay off-grid but unstuck, you'll need the tools to extricate yourself (or your friends and loved ones) from a tough spot.

The Land Cruiser features a Factor 55 ProLink attached to the synthetic rope of a Warn V10000 winch that's integrated into the front Bull Bar. This winching system can pull the SUV out of most jams and help to free up any traveling companions. Outback Proven also helped York with a set of MAXTRAX MKII extraction devices, which are essentially two planks made of reinforced polymer with cleats that sink into both the tire treads and the terrain. This design prevents the vehicle from slipping back into the precarious spot, allowing for a faster vehicle recovery. While they were made in Australia and proven on the sands of the outback, MAXTRAX work just as effectively in mud, dirt, or snow, and can even be used as shovels when turned upside down.

Lights

For most drivers, stock headlights suffice because city street lamps make up for their deficiencies. But when you're roaming through BFE (AKA the middle of nowhere), those deficiencies can lead to disaster. Visibility is cut short and peripheral vision is nonexistent in the backwoods. So, the Land Cruiser can light up the night with numerous additional lighting sources, including a 21-inch LED bar mounted on the front bumper and two 18-watt LED flood lights. Inside in the rear, York even installed a Hella LED map light for when you're stopped and need to find your bearings in the darkness.1994-toyota-land-cruiser-front-end

Batteries

With an array of additional lights, a Yaesu FT-8800R shortwave radio, and state-of-the art electronics (like a Kenwood touchscreen radio and Boston Acoustics and Kicker speakers), the Land Cruiser's electrical system would no doubt fry if they all ran on the original battery. So, York installed a dual-battery system with an Optima Red Top power plant running the alternator and winch and another feeding the auxiliary functions, like the electronics and radio. And as a backup, he fitted a 15-watt solar-charging panel to the roof.

Fuel and Food

A bug-out vehicle has to be more than just a mode of transportation. It must utilize every square inch for specific tasks or to house vital supplies. Why? Because when a calamity strikes, your vehicle might become your bedroom, kitchen, and warehouse for God knows how long. No wasted space allowed, so York maximized every compartment of his Land Cruiser.

In the event of a Mad Max scenario in which fuel is gold, York has his petrol needs covered — at least for some time. His rig has an auxiliary 44-gallon fuel tank, which more than doubles his travel range to about 700 miles. Inside, there's a mounted National Luna fridge for storing food and drinks. Connected to the Kaymar rear bumper is a Pelican chuck box that hides an onboard kitchenette. No joke. It holds a 5-pound propane tank, an 18-inch Partner Steel two-burner stove, and various pots and pans. This one-off kitchenette was the result of some fine craftsmanship by Nichols Autofab and the Argust brothers at Adventure Trailers.

And if that weren't enough, York installed a 27-gallon shower system with a hot/cold mixer and water pump.1994-toyota-land-cruiser-fold-out-table-with-cooking-equipment

Survival Storage

No off-grid rig would be complete without self-defense tools. Under the dash on the driver's side, there's a mount for a tanto blade. Behind the driver's seat is a custom-made stand for an AR-15 rifle that York fashioned from a fishing-pole mount. In the back, an Adventure Trailers Drawer System conveniently and safely secures his ammo and other firearms, including a badass Remington 870 that's been kitted-out by the shotgun gurus at Vang Comp Systems.

Topside, there's a BajaRack EXP roof rack that greatly increases the Land Cruiser's cargo-carrying capacity and where he keeps other survival gear. Other important supplies securely stowed include a shovel, a medical kit, and an SPA fire extinguisher.

At the Ready

The make and model of a bug-out vehicle isn't nearly as important as what you're prepping it for, how practical its setup will be in relation to your individual circumstance, and how well you know its capabilities and shortcomings.

With this vehicle, York has proven that with thorough research, proper craftsmanship, and a lot of help from friends, you can build an SUV for getting groceries, going camping, and facing the end of days. The Land Cruiser is a pavement pounder that can head for the hills at a moment's notice, making it the ideal off-grid rig.

12 mpg average
25 gallons = 300 miles
More than enough to go the 259 miles it takes to go from Prescott, AZ, to Las Vegas, NV

Make & Model1994 Toyota
Land Cruiser FZJ80
OwnerClayton York of Prescott, Arizona
Engine4.5L six-cylinder
Drivetrain4WD
Horsepower212
Height76 inches
Length188 inches
Width76 inches
Wheelbase112 inches
Ground Clearance14 inches
Cargo Capacity91 cubic feet
Curb Weight5,400 pounds
Height6'4″
*Measurements are approximations
45x Beer Keg Cargo Capacity (91 Cubic Feet)
Horsepower 212 x
21⁄3 x Fiat Curb Weight (5,400 Pounds)
Fuel Range 759 MilesSan Francisco, CA -> Prescott, AZ
Stock Fuel Range 300 MilesLas Vegas, NV -> Prescott, AZ
York's Land Cruiser:11 mpg average
69 gallons = 759 miles
Enough to go from Prescott, AZ, to San Francisco, CA
Factory Land Cruiser:12 mpg average
25 gallons = 300 miles
More than enough to go the 259 miles it takes to go from Prescott, AZ, to Las Vegas, NV

1994-toyota-land-cruiser-fzj80-dimensions

New Boker German Expedition Knives

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If you know knives, you've probably heard of Boker. This famous blade manufacturer has been producing knives, swords, and tools in the city of Solingen, Germany, since 1869. Boker products can be identified by the iconic “Tree Brand” logo stamped on each item that leaves their production line.

Boker German expedition knives 5

Boker's “Tree Brand” logo can be found on products dating back over a century.

Recently, Boker announced that they have partnered with designer Tony Lennartz to offer a new line of fixed-blade survival knives known as German Expedition Knives. Lennartz is an experienced military leader with decades of wilderness survival and bushcrafting experience. His proven knife designs and specifications are now being produced to meet Boker's high standards of quality.

Boker German expedition knives 3

The standard Boker German Expedition Knife with removable scales.

Each of the G.E.K. models is constructed of Bohler N690 steel, which has “a fine microstructure and outstanding corrosion resistance.” The knives use a skeletonized handle design to reduce weight, and some models also offer exchangeable Micarta scales for additional grip.

Boker German expedition knives 2

The Boker German Expedition Classic features one-piece drop-forged steel construction.

The standard Boker German Expedition Knife features a 6.5-inch blade, removable scales, and a stonewashed finish. The German Expedition Classic is also a 6.5-inch blade, but with a one-piece “full integral construction” and sleek brushed finish.

Boker German expedition knives 4

The Boker German Expedition EDC features a more compact 4.5-inch blade.

For those looking for something more compact, Boker will also offer the German Expedition EDC with a 4.5-inch blade. Finally, there's the Lennartz-designed Boker Para-1 with a 3.25-inch blade. The Para-1 will include a Kydex sheath with ball chain so it can be worn as a neck knife.

Boker German expedition knives 6

The Boker Para-1 is a handy back-up blade for delicate cutting tasks.

The Boker German Expedition Knife line ranges in price from $399 to $135, and these models will be available for purchase in late February 2016. For more information, visit Boker's web site.

A Look at Multi-Purpose Shovels

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Shovels have come a long way since they were just simple tools used to dig holes in the ground or clear snow from driveways. Since outdoor adventurers generally hump everything on their backs, they understand the benefits of having a single tool that can accomplish a variety of tasks. The more functions a tool has and less weight and space it takes up, the more useful it is. The military is also well known for packing everything and anything possible onto a soldier's back; $640 toilet seats notwithstanding, they excel at developing new technologies learned from valuable experience in the field too. Combine all this input and experience and you evolve a one-trick pony into a tool capable of a numerous uses — the modern multi-purpose shovel.

Militaries around the world have developed their own versions of multiuse shovels. Commonly known as entrenching tools, they are used for everything from digging foxholes and trenches to hand-to-hand combat. The most popular and common in the States is the U.S. Military Entrenching Tool, or E-Tool, used not only by American military forces, but also by NATO nations. It is a simple and sturdy tool made of steel that folds into three sections, much like the Gerber's Entrenching Tool. The E-Tool has a spade head with a serrated edge that can be configured in several different ways. It has served many well for decades as a shovel, a hoe, and even as a makeshift axe or saw. The military-issue-version E-Tool is commonly available at surplus stores.

As handy as the Mil-spec E-Tool is, multi-purpose shovels are constantly evolving with more features added to each new iteration. There are models that now include bottle and can openers, picks, and even hammers. With commercial companies, private inventors, and the world's militaries all vying to make the ultimate shovel, it can be hard to figure out which one is best for you. Let's dig deeper and see what these multi-purpose shovels have to offer.

Multi-Purpose Shovels Buyer's Guide

  • Ace Camp Survivor Multitool Shovel

    Make & Model - Ace Camp Survivor Multitool Shovel
    Length - 11.875 inches
    Weight - 11.1 oz
    Carry Case - Nylon with belt loops
    MSRP - $20
    URL - http://www.acecamp.com
    Notes - The Survivor Multitool Shovel is the smallest shovel in our guide, but certainly not less capable. What it gives up in size, it makes up for in mobility, storage space requirements, and hidden tools. Its functions include shovel, hatchet, saw, hammer, wrench, nail puller, bottle opener, and compass. Hidden inside the handle are an emergency blade, fishing line and hook, and matches. Sure, its not going to dig as efficiently as a larger shovel, but it is very light weight and a lot easier to pack than larger units, making it more likely to be packed in limited-space applications.

    What the Survivor Multitool Shovel gives up in size, it makes up for in mobility, storage space requirements, and hidden tools. Its functions include shovel, hatchet, saw, hammer, wrench, nail puller, bottle opener, and compass!

  • Crovel Extreme II

    Make & Model - Crovel Extreme II
    Length Open - 27.5 inches
    Length Closed - 21 inches
    Weight - 5 lbs, 14 oz
    Carry Case - None
    MSRP - $140
    URL - http://www.gearupcenter.com
    Notes - Probably the toughest multifunction shovel on the market, the original Crovel Extreme busted onto the scene and quickly gained a rabid following of believers and users. Crovel is back with the Extreme II, and like its predecessor, it exceeds expectations of what a survival multi-purpose shovel can do. The hardened 4140 chromoly-alloy shovelhead has blade-like sharpened edges, a vicious saw-tooth edge, and handy bottle opener. The sharp edges make cutting, chopping, and sawing a breeze, and the hardened surface keeps its edge. Its generous 14-inch long hollow steel handle is wrapped with 15 feet of 550 paracord and allows storage of survival items. It is plugged at the end with a knurled plug, which can be replaced by several types of available spikes — making it a great standoff device as well as rescue tool. The Crovel's hammerhead is clearly built to last and includes a crowbar claw that has been upgraded to a woodworking chisel as well as a pry bar. On top of all that, the Extreme II is made in the United States. The largest and heaviest of the shovels in this guide, the Crovel Extreme II's many uses easily outweigh its heft. This tool is made to withstand daily use of first responders and not just the occasional camping trip. In a disaster scenario, this tool should provide you with the means and confidence to get out of any dire situation.

    Probably the toughest multifunction shovel on the market, the original Crovel Extreme busted onto the scene and quickly gained a rabid following of believers and users, and Crovel is back with the Extreme II!

  • Gerber E-Tool with pick

    Make & Model - Gerber E-Tool with pick
    Length Open - 23.25 inches
    Length Closed - 12.5 inches
    Weight - 2 lbs, 15 oz
    Carry Case - None
    MSRP - $90
    URL - http://www.gerbergear.com
    Notes - Basically a revised and upgraded version of the venerable general-issue military E-Tool, Gerber's rendition includes the addition of a pick to help break up especially hard surfaces — and can act as a defensive implement as well. This military-grade digging tool's heart is its powdercoated, carbon-steel shovelhead with serrated blade edge. The E-Tool has a foldable body that is comprised of an anodized aluminum shaft and a durable glass-filled nylon handle.

    Basically a revised and upgraded version of the venerable general-issue military E-Tool, Gerber's rendition includes the addition of a pick to help break up especially hard surfaces - and can act as a defensive implement as well.

  • GLOCK Entrenching Tool with Pouch

    Make & Model - GLOCK Entrenching Tool with Pouch
    Length Open - 25.125 inches
    Length Closed - 10.25 inches
    Weight - 1 lb, 7.3 oz
    Carry Case - Nylon with belt loop
    MSRP - $50
    URL - store.teamglock.com
    Notes - This folding multifunction shovel is lockable in four positions and can be configured as a spade, shovel, saw, and hoe. It weighs about half that of a conventional E-Tool. The extendable telescopic handle allows the tool to shrink down to a very manageable package and is made of high-impact resistant polymer material for outstanding ruggedness and reliability. The hardened steel blade is sharpened and is finished with a durable, black anti-corrosive surface treatment. Stored in the hollow handle is a separate steel saw blade with screwdriver tip that attach to the handle for use. For enhanced endurance and reliability, the entrenching tool has no welding or rivets.

    This folding multifunction shovel is lockable in four positions and can be configured as a spade, shovel, saw, and hoe.

  • SOG Elite Entrenching Tool/F19-N

    Make & Model - SOG Elite Entrenching Tool/F19-N
    Length Open - 26 inches
    Length Closed - 10.5 inches
    Weight - 1 lb, 8.8 oz
    Carry Case - Nylon
    MSRP - $74
    URL - http://www.sogknives.com
    Notes - This folding and telescopic shovel contracts down to roughly fill the footprint of a letter-sized sheet of paper. Its 1075 carbon-steel shovelhead can dig you out of rubble from a fallen building or scoop out a hole in the ground to get a fire pit going. Its glass-reinforced nylon construction telescopes out to give you the leverage you need for digging into tough terrain. Like the GLOCK shovel, it also has a saw blade hidden in its handle, but the one found in the SOG has more aggressive teeth. It's a foldable shovel capable of doing some heavy-duty work while remaining highly packable.

    This folding and telescopic shovel contracts down to roughly fill the footprint of a letter-sized sheet of paper. Its 1075 carbon-steel shovelhead can dig you out of rubble from a fallen building or scoop out a hole in the ground to get a fire pit going.

  • WJQ-308 Chinese Military Shovel

    Make & Model - WJQ-308 Chinese Military Shovel
    Length Open - 23 inches
    Length Closed - 15.75 inches
    Weight - 2 lbs, 0.5 oz
    Carry Case - Nylon with two pouches, belt loops, shoulder strap
    MSRP - $88
    URL - http://www.wjq-308.com
    Notes - The WJQ-308 shovel has gained many fans worldwide, including plenty here in the States, due to its simple build and versatility. This is the original version, useful for digging, sawing, chopping, cutting, picking, prying, hammering, bottle opening, can opening, wire cutting, climbing, measuring, shoveling, and even as a mini shield. There is a second version of this shovel that features an upgraded shovelhead, handle, and other upgrades. The WJQ-308 comes with a water-resistant nylon carrying case. Check out the video found on its website — you'll be amazed to see how this shovel is properly used.

    The WJQ-308 shovel has gained many fans worldwide, including plenty here in the States, due to its simple build and versatility. This is the original version, useful for digging, sawing, chopping, and more!