Foot Care in Off-The-Grid Situations: When Your Dogs are Howling

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“A 1,000-mile journey begins with the first step.” It’s a sure bet that, off the grid, you won’t be spending a lot of time in your rocking chair. You’ll be up and about, sometimes traveling miles to perform the daily activities necessary to survive. You may need to carry heavy gear over rough terrain, scramble over obstacles, or sprint to escape danger. Foot care isn’t just a good idea — keeping your dogs from howling is absolutely necessary if you’re going to survive.

DISCLAIMER

This is a general overview and not a comprehensive guide to treating foot injuries. Seek professional medical advice if you experience foot injuries that worsen over time.

Foot Care 101

The first lesson in Foot Care 101 is pretty much common sense: make sure your footwear fits. Many foot problems originate from poorly fitting shoes. There are lots of different brands of boots out there, and there’s no time limit for trying them on. Your shoes are arguably the most important article of clothing you’ll own in an off-grid scenario, so find the ones that fit best.

Heavier boots, like steel-toed, are great if you’re chopping wood (you get to keep all 10 of your toes) but are cumbersome for serious treks. Remember that an extra pound of weight in your boot is often compared to five extra pounds of weight on your back. Soft, flexible uppers will help.

Photo of a five pairs of boots lined up in a row in the grass.

Above: Boots must not only fit, but also be broken in. If you find a pair that works well for you, consider buying an identical backup set.

Hiking boots should be sturdy. Soles should be Vibram or other durable, high-traction material. In wet climates, waterproof layers like Gore-Tex are your friends. In warm climates, breathable boots can keep your feet cooler and drier. High-cut boots will help prevent ankle sprains by giving more support (and may even protect against the occasional snake bite).

Some people find the right boot but don’t “break it in.” Breaking in should be a slow, steady process, not a 15-mile hike the day after you bought them. Start by wearing them inside the house. Then, walk around the block a few times. Finally, put on a light pack and walk a short trail, slowly building up mileage and weight.

Another factor in keeping your feet healthy is your socks. Most people hike in the same pair of socks all day, even in the heat of summer. This can be extremely damaging to your feet. Sweaty feet are unhappy feet; wetness increases friction and gives you blisters. Change your socks often and have replacement pairs as a standard item in your backpack. Cotton socks retain moisture, but wool socks wick moisture away from the skin and even have antimicrobial properties to reduce odor. If you’re prone to blisters, consider the use of a lighter second pair of socks (sock liners) under the thicker hiking socks. Use foot powders, like Gold Bond, or even corn starch to keep your feet dry.

Structure of the Nail. Human anatomy.

Above: A quick look at nail anatomy.

Are My Feet Getting Bigger?

You’ve been a size 9.5 for as long as you can remember. Those 9.5s fit perfectly until one day … they don’t. What’s going on?

Believe it or not, it’s not abnormal for your foot size to change over time. As you walk, your body absorbs two to three times its weight due to gravity. The ligaments and tendons that support the arch in your foot become worn with use. As a result, the arch drops. The flattening that occurs causes your foot to become a little wider and longer. Extra weight as you get older has a similar effect.

Other age-related changes that affect foot care include the thinning of the fat pads that cushion the bottom of your feet. You might also develop bony changes like bunions, hammertoes, or other conditions that require more space.

Pregnancy also makes a difference. During pregnancy, there’s a big increase in a hormone called “relaxin.” This relaxes the pelvic bones and even makes it easier for the cervix to dilate during labor. It does the same to the ligaments in the foot, however, leading to changes in length and width that are often permanent.

Photo of someone reaching for their boot as the rest their foot on a fallen tree limb.

Above: Failure to break in your boots may lead to big trouble. If you can’t walk, you won’t be able to do most other survival tasks.

Common Foot Problems

Blisters: Blisters caused by excessive friction are, perhaps, the most common foot ailment off the grid. A foot blister is a small, often painful, fluid-filled pocket that forms on the uppermost layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear-to-yellowish liquid and can lead to infection.

Many rugged survivalists consider blisters to be no big deal, but they adversely affect work efficiency and need time to heal. An infected blister is a major issue and will become more swollen, painful, and red over the course of time. You might even develop a collection of pus called an “abscess.”

Usually, blisters occur as a result of choosing poorly fitting shoes, not having enough dry socks, or allowing your feet to become sweaty and wet.

Treating a blister first requires you to get off your feet. Wash your hands and clean the area thoroughly with an antiseptic like Betadine. The cleaner you start off, the less likelihood of infection.

A close up shot of a water filled blister on foot due to long walks. A blister is a pocket of fluid between the upper layers of skin.

Above: A large blister may require drainage.

Should you lance the blister? If it’s small, the answer is no, as an open blister is more likely to become infected. If the blister’s big, likely to break on its own, or very painful, however, some prefer to drain it. If so, follow these steps:

  • Wash the area with soap and water and apply petroleum jelly.
  • Using a cotton swab, disinfect a needle with rubbing alcohol or heat it until it glows red.
  • Take the needle and make a small puncture in the edge of the blister.
  • Allow fluid to drain. Don’t remove the “roof” of the blister, as this will protect the raw skin underneath as it heals.
  • Apply antibacterial ointment or petroleum jelly to the blister site.
  • Use padding in high pressure areas. Cut the padding into a donut shape with a hole in the middle and place it around the blister.
  • Cover the blister and padding with a bandage or gauze.

Athlete’s foot: Athlete’s foot (also known as “tinea pedis”) is an infection of the skin caused by a type of fungus known as Trychophyton. This condition may be a chronic issue, lasting for years if not treated. Although usually seen between the toes, you might see it also on other parts of the feet or even on the hands (often on the nails or between fingers). Athlete’s foot is contagious; it can be passed by sharing shoes or socks and even from wet surfaces such as shower floors. Those affected by athlete’s foot may also find themselves with other fungal problems, like “ringworm” or “jock itch” (Tinea cruris).

Any fungal infection is made worse by moist conditions. People who are prone to Athlete’s foot commonly have the same risk factors you might find in those who are thrown off the grid due to a disaster:

  • Spend long hours in closed shoes
  • Keep their feet wet for prolonged periods
  • Have a tendency to get cuts on feet and hands
  • Perspire a lot

Athlete’s foot isn’t hard to diagnose. Look for flaky skin between the toes or fingers. The skin may appear red and the nails turn yellow. The patient will complain of itching and burning in the affected areas, sometimes severe. If the skin has been traumatized by scratching, you might see some fluid drainage. Often, the damage caused by the scratching is worse than the infection itself.

detail view of the human foot that infected by athlete's foot fungus

Above: Athlete’s foot (tinea pedis) is easy to diagnose but takes patience to treat.

If the condition is mild, keeping your feet clean and dry may be enough to allow slow improvement of the condition. Oftentimes, however, topical antifungal ointments or powders such as miconazole or clotrimazole are required for elimination of the condition. Don’t use anti-itching creams very often, however, as they keep the area moist and may delay healing. In the worst cases, oral prescription antifungals such as fluconazole (Diflucan) are needed.

Patience is a virtue when it comes to monitoring the healing process; it may take more than a month for a significant case of Athlete’s foot to resolve.

A favorite home remedy for Athlete’s foot involves putting tea tree oil liberally in a foot bath and soaking for 20 minutes or so. Dry the feet well and then apply a few drops onto the affected area. Repeat this process twice daily. Try to keep the area as dry as possible otherwise. For prevention of future outbreaks of athlete’s foot, apply tea tree oil once a week before putting on socks and shoes.

A quick mention of the old home remedy of urinating on your feet — if your urine has the usual concentration of a compound called “urea” in it, it probably won’t work. Dermatologists use stronger urea treatment with some success, however.

Corns: Corns are thick, hard patches of skin caused by friction that are found on the tops of toes. Some are barely noticeable but others may cause pain, especially when wearing ill-fitting shoes. Removing the source of friction may eliminate the problem. Other options include:

  • Protecting skin by wearing thick socks
  • Using corn pads to protect and relieve pressure
  • Applying salicylic acid to help dissolve corns. This method isn’t used on the feet of diabetics due to the risk of causing injury.
  • Wearing foot orthotics
  • Having a medical professional shave off the offending corn

An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Corns may be prevented by wearing shoes that fit properly and using gel pad inserts to decrease pressure on vulnerable areas.

Hallux valgus, bunion in foot on grass background

Above: Bunions and other conditions can cause a poor shoe fit (and pain).

Ingrown toenails: In the typical apocalypse movie, you’ll see gunshot wounds and broken bones, but in the real world, minor conditions can be a major problem. One of these is the ingrown toenail, also known as onychocryptosis.

While considered by some to be no worse than a blister or Athlete’s foot, ingrown nails can be severe enough to cause skin ulcers, blood infections (also called “septicemia”), or even total loss of circulation (“gangrene”).

Your fingernails and toenails are made up of a protein called keratin. It’s the substance that covers the claws, horns, and hooves of many animals. When we refer to issues involving nails, we refer to it as “ungual” from “unguis,” the Latin word for claw.

Nails consist of several parts. They include:

  • The nail plate: This is the hard covering of the top end of a finger or toe; what we consider to be the nail.
  • The nail bed: The skin directly under the nail plate. Made up of dermis and epidermis just like the rest of your skin, the superficial epidermis moves along with the nail plate as it grows. Vertical grooves attach the superficial epidermis to the deep dermis. In older people, the nail plate thins out and you can see the grooves if you look closely. Blood vessels and nerves run through the nail bed.
  • The nail (or “germinal”) matrix: The portion or root at the base of the nail under the cuticle that produces new cells for the nail plate. You can see a portion of the matrix in the light half-moon (the “lunula”) visible at the base of the nail plate.

A toenail becomes ingrown when the edge of the nail grows into the skin of the toe. It can occur for a number of reasons, but poorly fitting shoes and poorly trimmed toenails are the most common causes. The big toe is usually affected, but any toenail can be affected.

Ingrown toenail onychocryptosis on caucasian big toe Hallux, caused by fungal infection tinea unguium. Macro angled view isolated on white background.

Above: Ingrown toenails can become a serious problem due to how much pain they can cause.

The skin along the edge of a toenail that’s ingrown may appear red, swollen, painful, and even warm to the touch. These are signs not only of pressure on the skin, but also herald the beginning of an infection. If not treated, the condition worsens, possibly even leading to the drainage of pus.

Shoes that are either too tight or too loose can cause ingrown toenails. If too loose, it causes continual pounding of your big toe against the inside due to movement within the shoe as you walk. With shoes that are too small for your foot (or even high heels), extra pressure is placed on your toes that prevents normal nail growth.

Nails that aren’t trimmed properly can also cause ingrown toenails. This happens when your toenails are trimmed too short, or you cut your toenails in a rounded fashion instead of straight across. Rounded cuts are appropriate for fingernails, but not toenails. The edges of the nails will tend to curl downward and grow into the skin.

Photo of a blood blister on a left foot.

Above: Corns are caused by repeated friction or pressure.

Some people are born with nails that are curved and naturally tend to curve inward. Injuries to the nail bed can also cause ingrown toenails, especially if it affects the germinal matrix, the living part of the nail that produces new cells. People with diabetes or other illnesses that cause poor circulation are also at higher risk for these problems. A diabetic, for example, may experience nerve damage and not realize that excessive pressure is being applied to the toes by ill-fitting shoes. They may not even notice that the nail is growing into the skin.

In some cases, an ingrown toenail can be treated by:

  • Soaking the foot in warm water with Epsom salts three to four times a day. In between soaks, keep the toe dry.
  • Using an antiseptic to decrease the bacterial count in the area.
  • Placing a small piece of moist cotton, waxed dental floss, or other material under the nail to help it grow away from the skin.
  • Considering wearing sandals until improved.

At some point, however, you may have no choice but to intervene more aggressively. In these circumstances, remove the offending segment of nail. Remove the side trapped under the skin by using a scalpel or clippers, about 1/5 of the nail width or less. You may have to cut all the way down to the base and use a clamp for removal. Expect some bleeding.

calluses on the toes close-up. foot of a man on a white background

Above: Blisters are a common result of ill-fitting shoes.

As you might expect, this procedure is more easily done after injecting local anesthetic (plain lidocaine) into the area. Be aware that if a portion of the nail is removed, it may take months for it to regrow.

If the toe is infected, antibiotics might be appropriate. Triple antibiotic ointment may be helpful here, but oral antibiotics, such as cephalexin, clindamycin, or amoxicillin may be necessary.

If a portion of the nail is cut off, patience is required as it’ll take months for the nail to regrow. If you have a genetic tendency toward ingrown toenails, be prepared to deal with recurrences.

Close up photo of a pair of deform feet with a very high arch, tight tendons and bent hammertoes for an anatomy textbook

Above: Hammertoes are age-related changes that require more space in shoes and boots.

Nail Bed Injuries

There are various types of toenail injuries. Amputations and fractures may occur due to trauma, but more commonly you’ll see:

Nail bed lacerations: In a nail bed laceration, the nail and underlying tissue is cut. This may occur as a result of a knife or a crush injury. These wounds will bleed and leave bruising that may take a long time to heal.

Nail bed avulsions: An avulsion occurs when your nail and nail bed is pulled off the toe. This can occur when a toe is jammed into a tight space but may be caused by various other traumatic events. This injury is very painful; it has even been used as a form of torture.

Subungual Hematomas: When bleeding occurs under the nail plate, it’s often trapped and accumulates, forming what is called a “hematoma.” It’s the classic result of hitting your finger with a hammer. You can expect throbbing pain and some bruising. When a significant amount of blood accumulates, it may lift the nail plate.

Damage to the nail on leg. Big toe injury, nail torn off, blood flowing

Above: Some nail lacerations may require closure with stitches.

Treating Nail Bed Avulsions and Lacerations

In normal settings, an X-ray is often performed to rule out a fracture of the digit. You won’t have such modern medical technology available off the grid. Some procedures may be performed with a good medical kit and supplies. In the case of an avulsion or laceration:

  • Clean the nail bed thoroughly and flush out any debris. Paint with 2 percent povidone-Iodine solution or other antiseptic solution.
  • Cover the exposed (and very sensitive) nail bed with a non-stick dressing and petroleum jelly. Change frequently. Avoid ordinary gauze, as it sticks tenaciously to raw areas and would be painful to remove.
  • If the nail plate is hanging on by a thread, remove it by separating it from the skin folds by using a hemostat. You can consider placing the avulsed nail plate on the nail bed as a protective covering.
  • In nail bed lacerations, suture (if clean) with a thin absorbable suture available (6-0 Vicryl works). Be sure to remove any nail plate tissue over the laceration so the suture repair will be complete.
  • Place a fingertip dressing. Some will stabilize the digit with a finger splint to protect from further damage.
  • Add antibiotics and a tetanus shot for an obviously dirty wound.

Removal of the ingrown portion of the toenail may be necessary.

Treating Subungual Hematomas

If a crush injury causes a bruise (also called an “ecchymosis”), it’ll be painful but usually just for a short time. In this case, some ibuprofen or other pain med should help. A hematoma will continue to be painful, however, even several hours after the event. A bruise is likely to appear brownish or blue, but a hematoma may appear a deep blue-black.

If very painful or significant blood has accumulated under the toenail, a further procedure called “trephination” may be performed. In this instance, a very fine drill (or a red-hot 18-gauge IV needle or paper clip) is used to make a hole in the nail plate large enough to drain the blood and relieve the pressure under the nail. This is an important consideration to avoid damage to the nail bed. In the worst cases, the nail plate is removed instead.

Photo shows a woman's big toe with a severe subungual hematoma on the nail.

Above: A subungual hematoma appears bluish-black and painful.

The toe must be kept clean, dry, splinted, and bandaged for a minimum of 48 hours afterward. Most inexperienced medics should avoid this procedure except in the most severe cases, as the pain will usually decrease over time even if you do nothing.

It’s important to know that damage to the base of the nail (the “germinal matrix”) may be difficult to completely repair, and that the fully healed nail may look irregular in some way. A completely torn-off nail will take four to six months to grow back.

Trephination can eliminate painful hematomas under the nail.

Above: Trephination can eliminate painful hematomas under the nail.

Footwear Selection Tips

Online shopping is the norm for many these days, but not the best strategy when it comes to purchasing shoes. There are some simple ways to make sure you’re buying shoes that will fit and serve you well for years:

  • Pick the right time. Go to the store after a day of walking, when your feet are a little larger than other times. This will help you avoid buying shoes that are too small.
  • Wear familiar socks. Try on new shoes with the socks you’re most likely to wear with them. You might wear thicker socks or add liners if you’re buying hiking boots.
  • Make sure boots fit both feet. Most of us have one foot that’s a little larger than the other. If you wear orthotics or arch supports, bring them along.
  • Don’t buy shoes that are too tight and expect them to stretch. They might, but you’ll go through a lot of discomfort to get them there. Spend some time walking around the store in your potential pair, at least 15 minutes, before buying.

Close up of human heel with a chafe or blister and dry skin. Injury caused by new hiking shoes.

Above: Removing the roof of a drained blister exposes the sensitive flesh beneath. For added protection, it might be best to leave the outer layer of skin in place.

If you’ve found the right boot, consider getting a second pair (and breaking them in also).

Confirming the Fit

Each part of your foot should be happy in your new boots:

  • The ball of your foot should fit the widest part of the shoe without pressure.
  • There should be about 1/2 inch or so from the end of your toes to the end of your shoe.
  • The upper part of the shoe should be flexible enough to not cause discomfort on your instep.
  • Your heel should not slip up and down when you walk.
  • If you’ve laced the boots and there’s still space above the top of your foot, the volume is off.

Hiking boot. Legs on mountain trail during trekking in forest. Leather ankle shoes

Above: When trying on boots, use the socks you’d wear with them.

About the Author

Joe Alton, MD, is a physician, medical preparedness advocate, and New York Times/Amazon-bestselling author of The Survival Medicine Handbook: The Essential Guide For When Help Is NOT On The Way, Alton’s Antibiotics and Infectious Disease, Alton’s Pandemic Preparedness Guide, and other books. He designs survival medical kits at store.doomandbloom.net.

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Book Review: Design Any Disaster

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Disasters are complex crises that reveal the type of person we truly are and serve as proving grounds to learn who we wish to become. In Design Any Disaster, author Patrick Hardy takes what we commonly think we know about disaster preparedness and formulates a plan that reinvents the principle of how we respond to emergencies on all scales.

Through his C3 method (Command, Communicate, Carry Out), Hardy looks to change how we view ourselves to ensure we aren’t helpless bystanders who allow ourselves to become victims to the disaster, but capable leaders who are willing to protect ourselves and families. The entire premise of the book is that disasters don’t have to be calamitous events that disrupt our lives, but that we are the determinant of whether an unexpected event becomes a disaster in the first place.

The 411

Design Any Disaster prompts us to look at our role in disasters differently as both the trained and untrained. While the book hits home for the average citizen, it offers a different take on preparedness for the seasoned veteran. The notion that Hardy presents, “Never experience a disaster again … ever,” is a surefire way for curious readers to pull the trigger on purchasing his book. If not for Hardy’s background in emergency management, one might think that he’d be out of touch from reality.

That, however, is Hardy’s point. He has taken the status quo and made it relatable to the average reader, empowering them to take action and turn any disaster to their will. Hardy utilizes his C3 method to ensure each disaster is approached the same way, giving his readers foresight into mentally preparing for, and responding to, any crisis. Instructing his readers how to React, Respond, and Recover for each scenario is the foundation of his theory, and even includes a method to Reverse disaster by gaining valuable insight into how to become a more complete person after the disaster is over.

The issue with Design Any Disaster is that it’s difficult to interpret who the book is written for. If written for those who are inexperienced with disaster preparation, readers would be in for a treat as they feel they’re privy to revolutionary teaching. For those who are experienced in emergency management, the book seems to be a repackaging of information that already exists. This isn’t to say anything Hardy writes is wrong; his approach is spot-on and should be a refresher for those who have worked in the field for some time.

Any long-term government worker would agree with Hardy that 99 percent of disaster plans fail because they’re convoluted messes that are rarely followed through, and that our reliance on disaster equipment actually leaves us less prepared. But ask any self-reliant prepper out there and they would’ve told you the same information three decades ago, so the information that’s presented isn’t really new.

It’s very much appreciated that Hardy calls out these mistakes, but again, the tactics presented are a rejuvenated reminder that our best asset in a disaster lies between our ears. Hardy does a wonderful job at spicing up the essentials of how disaster preparedness should look, formulating a solid plan for those new to the field to start their journey. It’s just not for the seasoned prepper.

The Verdict

Design Any Disaster, while exploring the common-sense side of disaster preparedness, is a different take on how we think about our levels of readiness and reaction during a crisis. Hardy’s point is that if we’re going to act, then prepare to act. We should never allow our circumstances to turn us into bystanders while someone else determines our survival. We do this through his approach called the C3 method. None of this, however, is revolutionary, and this is where Hardy’s work could lose the interest of more seasoned veterans in disaster survival.

If you’re new to disaster preparedness, I’d highly recommend this book. It’s a valuable tool to help in any disaster-related scenario and should find its place amongst a library of other material for those looking to protect themselves and families. If you’ve been in the field for a while and feel that you’ve been gaining ground in your disaster prepping efforts, then Design Any Disaster might be a fresh set of eyes to revitalize your passion for all things preparedness.

If you’ve been around the block a few times, however, and have a year-long supply of food in your four-bedroom underground disaster bunker, this may not be the book for you. At the end of the day, Hardy is developing a larger audience, and this could be an attempt to reach the more seasoned reader, challenging us to not be bystanders, but to share our own wisdom to a new generation of preppers in a world quickly going mad. Maybe we all are a bit stagnant and could use a strong refresher at what it means to be prepared, but the information within the book is far from “revolutionary” and feels more like a new coat of paint to spice up old information.

About the Book

Front cover of the book Design Any Disaster.

Book & Author

Design Any Disaster: The Revolutionary Blueprint to Master Your Next Crisis or Emergency

By Patrick Hardy

Publisher

Benbella Books

MSRP

$30

URL

amazon.com

Pages

288

Rating

Thrive

>Survive

Die

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Going It Alone: Exclusive Interviews with History Channel’s Alone Contestants

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We often wonder what would happen if we were forced to confront a life-or-death survival situation alone. Questions like how would I react, what first steps would I take, and how long could I make it run through our minds. It’s an interesting and sometimes frustrating thought exercise, with no way to fully test our survival theories without diving headfirst into dangerous circumstances. However, there’s an alternative way to explore these ideas from the safety and comfort of our homes.

History Channel’s popular TV series Alone mitigates the risk and gives the audience valuable insights by pitting some of the world’s top survival experts against the elements for as long as they’re able. The title of the show is fitting, since each contestant must try to stay alive for as long as they can completely by themselves — a true worst-case scenario.

It’s easy for viewers to relax with all of life’s modern amenities and armchair quarterback what’s happening on the screen, but there’s a lot going on behind the scenes that isn’t shown or discussed. We wanted to discover deeper insights into what the contestants are up against, and interviewed four former Alone contestants who were willing to share the wisdom of their experiences.

Britt Ahart: Alone Season 3, 5 and The Skills Challenge

Portrait photo of Alone Contestant Britt Ahart.

If you had to start your survival learning journey over from square one, what are the top five skills you’d focus on, and in what order?

The order I would learn would likely be fire, foraging, traps, shelter, and water. That’s basically how it started for me.

Let’s say you’re tasked with surviving for one month in the woods using only the gear you can carry on your body/back. You have an unlimited budget. Starting with the type and size of pack, what’s your loadout for the perfect long-term wilderness survival ruck?

One month in the woods with an unlimited budget? Man … I’d go with a 65L backpack, big enough for the gear that I need. I’m just going to start listing items: knife, multi-tool, paracord, fishing gear (line, lures, flies, hooks, Tenkara rod), trapping line, compound bow/arrows, panda pot, single-walled canteen, ferro rod, Silky saw, Leatherman multi-tool, small tent, wool blanket, .22 rifle and ammo, flashlight, water purification tools/tablets, book on wild edibles, pad/pencil, compass, med/toiletry/sewing kit. That’s all I came up with. I think that would be more than enough — I thought I’d proven that I can do it with way less. [Laughs]

Britt Ahart teaching youth about nature.

Above: Ahart enjoys teaching survival skills to kids and passing on his love for the great outdoors.

Weather, plant and animal life, natural resources, and other factors vary widely from one region to the next. How do you prepare for an extended stay in an environment you’ve never experienced before?

When I was preparing to go on Alone, I did extensive research on both Argentina and Mongolia. Such foreign lands — I had to learn a lot about the flora, the fauna, proximity to water sources, the topography, the weather, and even the altitude. It’s important to know these things so you can be prepared for as many situations as possible. Know how you’ll acquire water and increase your likelihood of getting the nutrients that you’ll need. And knowing the trees helped in constructing an idea of what types of shelter I could build.

What’s the most impactful nugget of survival wisdom you’ve ever received?

The brain is the biggest survival tool. All of the bushcrafting and survival knowledge won’t help you if you can’t keep a level and focused mind. That also allows me to think out-of-the-box and be resourceful when the situation deems it necessary.

Britt Ahart holding up a live snake.

Above: “I’ve never been afraid of snakes. I think they are incredibly amazing creatures.” Ahart snapped a photo with this colorful corn snake before returning it to the wild.

What do you wish the viewers of Alone would understand as they’re watching the show?

I wish the viewers would understand that this show is more than a camping competition. This is a psychological experiment that really tests one’s mind and resilience, as well as skills. For me, there were a lot of internal struggles I faced and skeletons I released from closets.

Do you have any advice for those aspiring survivalists contemplating how they’d fare in the wild?

Be prepared to really get to know yourself. I’ve found that the longer that I spend in nature by myself, the more I reset to who I really am. No one around to wear a mask for, so you become who you really are.

Alone contestant Britt Ahart blowing an ember to flame within a tinder bundle.

Do you have any projects, classes, or other news you’d like to share with us?

I’ll be featured in an article in Vulture magazine. My collaboration with Valor Talent Group is continuing to grow. We are reaching a lot of kids, teaching them outdoor survival and getting them interested in exploring nature. And there are a few other future projects that I can’t talk about yet.

Where can we find you online?

Matt Corradino: Alone Season 8

Portrait photo of Alone Contestant Matt Corradino.

If you had to start your survival learning journey over from square one, what are the top five skills you’d focus on, and in what order?

If doing the show again, I would work on the same skills — shelter, water, fire, and food. For me, food gathering skills include hunting with bow and arrow, foraging, and fishing. I suppose if I did it all again, I might work more on trapping.

Let’s say you’re tasked with surviving for one month in the woods using only the gear you can carry on your body/back. You have an unlimited budget. Starting with the type and size of pack, what’s your loadout for the perfect long-term wilderness survival ruck?

For one month of survival, I’m taking a full-size pack for transporting things I might find while in the bush. In that pack would be a hunting knife, a folding saw (Silky of course), a small hatchet, a small-handled hacksaw and four or five extra blades, fishing line and an assortment of hooks, a takedown wood bow and six arrows (mostly broadheads and a few small game arrows), a cooking pot, a water bottle, and most importantly a first aid kit.

Matt Corradino with leading a survival course.

Weather, plant and animal life, natural resources, and other factors vary widely from one region to the next. How do you prepare for an extended stay in an environment you’ve never experienced before?

I constantly train primitive survival with the principles of each skill in mind, so that I can adjust each skill set to the materials at hand. The only real challenge is knowing the plant life in each region. To help with this, I spend a lot of time studying the plant families in the temperate zones and the poisonous plants worldwide. There are less plants in the world that will kill you than those that won’t. If I know it won’t kill me, I have room to experiment.

What’s the most impactful nugget of survival wisdom you’ve ever received?

There are too many nuggets to choose from for a wiseass like myself, but I’ll choose this one: You have to spend the calories until you have more than enough. If you don’t burn the calories to get more, you’ll burn them all lying in bed.

Alone contestant Matt Corradino with a group of students around a camp fire.

Above: On a recent group outing on his home island of St. Croix, Corradino found a dead deer on the beach that was likely killed by wild dogs. “I’ve never been so well fed on a survival trip,” he recalled.

What do you wish the viewers of Alone would understand as they’re watching the show?

There are two main things people should know when watching Alone. First, the contestants are dealing with a completely debilitating set of hunting and fishing restrictions. Due to the legalities of a show like this, there are far fewer things you can catch than things you can’t catch, which makes true survival almost completely impossible for most seasons. The second thing is that the show is highly edited. It is very likely that the narrative you are watching is a fantasy created by the editors. The amount of time spent in the bush is always at the very least a hundred times longer (not an exaggeration) than the amount of airtime given to any contestant. The editors often tell the story of their own choosing due to time constraints and the lack of freedom inherent in working with a major TV network.

Do you have any advice for those aspiring survivalists contemplating how they’d fare in the wild?

It’s way harder than you think. But because of that, and because you’re better at it than your immediate results might show, it is one of the most rewarding things you can spend your time on in life.

Matt Corradino preparing food over a camp fire.

Do you have any projects, classes, or other news you’d like to share with us?

We offer survival trips, skills classes, and spear fishing classes throughout the year.

Where can we find you online?

Caribbeanearthskills.com or my YouTube channel,
Caribbean Earth Skills. I’m also on Instagram and Facebook under Matt Corradino.

Jessie Krebs: Alone Season 9

Alone contestant Jessie Krebs.

If you had to start your survival learning journey over from square one, what are the top five skills you’d focus on, and in what order?

Navigation, knots/hitches/lashings, shelter principles, firecraft, and medical.

Let’s say you’re tasked with surviving for one month in the woods using only the gear you can carry on your body/back. You have an unlimited budget. Starting with the type and size of pack, what’s your loadout for the perfect long-term wilderness survival ruck?

I’d prefer an external frame pack; 60-liter capacity should be large enough. I’d take a sleeping bag plus a full- or queen-size fitted flannel bedsheet (sleeping bag liner); a non-inflatable, flat, roll-up sleeping pad cut down to fit me; an 8×10 heavy-duty tarp, about 100 feet of paracord, a few toiletries (soap, toothpaste and brush, couple hair bands, and some lotion/salve), a large garbage bag (pack liner), a small med kit, water disinfectant (iodine tabs), a metal canteen cup, two bandanas, a map and compass, some food in a bag (5 pounds of carbs, 2 pounds or so of dried veggies, 2 pounds or so of dried fruit, and 3 pounds or so of dried meat or pemmican), some spices, two 1-liter canteens, three knives (high carbon fixed blade, multi-tool with saw, and small whittling knife), a lighter, a ferro rod, a small piece of pitchwood (tinder), a rain jacket and wool top, two extra pairs of socks, a sew kit, a pen and notebook, a sun hat, a warm hat and neck gaiter, fingerless gloves, a headlamp and extra batteries. I’d wear socks, boots, cargo pants, a sports bra, and a button-down long sleeve shirt. Depending on the time of year, I might also include a dromedary water bag, and about 3 square yards of ripstop nylon. And depending on the steepness of the terrain, perhaps 100 feet of 9mm climbing rope, 30 feet of mule tape, and a couple carabiners. I’m assuming getting out is not the priority, so I haven’t included any dedicated signaling gear. And this is more of a vacation pack than a “survival” one.

Jessie Krebs teaching a class.

Above: Krebs is a former U.S. Air Force SERE specialist and the founder of O.W.L.S. Skills (short for Outdoorsy Women Learning Survival). She's passionate about helping women feel empowered by teaching them skills that are traditionally considered masculine.

Weather, plant and animal life, natural resources, and other factors vary widely from one region to the next. How do you prepare for an extended stay in an environment you’ve never experienced before?

I’d learn as much about it as I can before I go. What are the seasonal average temperature and precipitation patterns? What is the elevation and terrain like? Are there particular animals, reptiles, insects, and viruses/illnesses to be wary of? What’s the social and political climate? Feelings toward Americans? I plan to be as self-contained as possible, with everything I need, and all that I take should be easily adapted to whatever environment I find myself in. I go through the five basic needs and make sure I have what I would need for every environment: signaling (if rescue may be necessary); personal protection (clothing and equipment, shelter, fire); navigation, health, sustenance (water and food needs).

What’s the most impactful nugget of survival wisdom you’ve ever received?

Be aware. Pay attention, look for patterns — what’s going on with you, with the water, the wind, the weather, the animals, the plants, everything? Open your senses to your surroundings. Awareness is living and engaging. Awareness is a relationship, connection, and community.

Jessie Krebs teaching a student some rope techniques.

What do you wish the viewers of Alone would understand as they’re watching the show?

Viewers only get to see a small snippet of what is going on for each participant. So much is not filmed and so much is not shared on the show.

Do you have any advice for those aspiring survivalists contemplating how they’d fare in the wild?

This situation doesn’t put you in crisis mode, so if you’re good in a crisis, that doesn’t mean you’ll last on the show. Are you good at entertaining yourself? How do you deal with boredom and long-term discomfort?

Do you have any projects, classes, or other news you’d like to share with us?

My school is primarily for women, and I collaboratively run a lot of women-only courses; however, I do occasionally run courses for all demographics, and also offer custom courses for special occasions on whatever topics and wherever and with whoever you like.

Where can we find you online?

Larry Roberts: Alone Season 2 and 5

Alone contestant Larry Roberts sitting on a log with a saw.

If you had to start your survival learning journey over from square one, what are the top five skills you’d focus on, and in what order?

This is always a common question, and the answers can vary on your environment and what activities you do in the outdoors. Procuring water might not be as hard snowmobiling as say hiking in the desert. Having said that, my priorities are: fire, water procurement, shelter, thermoregulation, and problem solving. It is hard for me to put one skill before the others as they can change even by season. Freezing weather in January will have different problems or challenges than an 80-degree day in July. Once you have the basic skills down, I’d say problem solving is one of, if not the, most important skill you can learn. 

Larry Roberts holding up a successfully hunted mouse.

Above: Above: Alone fans will recall Roberts' continuous battle with the mice that scurried through his shelter.

Let’s say you’re tasked with surviving for one month in the woods using only the gear you can carry on your body/back. You have an unlimited budget. Starting with the type and size of pack, what’s your loadout for the perfect long-term wilderness survival ruck?

One of my favorite packs is called the ILBE (Improved Load Bearing Equipment), which is a military surplus pack. I’m not super into packs, so I really don’t focus on them too much. If the pack has sufficient room to carry my gear and is comfortable, I’m fine with it. I’ve used expedition packs, military surplus, and generic brands.

I would for sure take a sleep system and a tarp or tent. Most times I would prefer a tent, however sometimes a tarp can have more flexibility. I have had good luck with oilskin tarps for longevity, but they are heavy. Currently my favorite tent is a two-man tent from REI called a Half Dome 2+. My sleep system usually includes a sleeping mat (also from REI) called an Exped 9 and a sleeping bag. Depending on conditions, I will take a generic bag or if it gets real cold, I will take my Wiggy’s or Feathered Friends sleeping bag.

Another piece of kit I would bring is a cooking system and a water bottle. My cooking set can be as simplistic as a military-style canteen cup or it could include a small pot and frying pan. I prefer stainless steel for my cooking kit and especially for my water bottle.

I would also, of course, take a knife. I love my Gen 6 from LT Wright Knives, and I feel this knife is the perfect “survival” knife. Depending on the location or environment I might also include a saw, hatchet, or ax. Most times I prefer a saw over an ax or hatchet. I really like my Boreal 21 folding saw.

I love a nice fire, so I would include a 1/2×6-inch ferro rod and a lighter or two.

There are always lots of uses for cordage or rope, so I would include a bit of that as well. Usually, I take around 25 feet of paracord, and the same amount of tarred bank line. Both have their pros and cons.

Personally, I would take lots and lots of food. Starving is quite unpleasant. [Laughs]

Lastly, I would include a headlamp with extra batteries. I’m not a fan of doing a lot of night movement or traveling but having an artificial light in camp can be a huge morale boost and make a lot of camp chores safer and easier to accomplish.

There are some other small items I would like, such as Chapstick and a small medical kit, but the above list is a good starting point. Of course, individual medications (if needed) should be included as well as communication equipment or safety gear.

Alone contestant Larry Roberts showing off his back tattoo commemorating his time on the show.

Above: Roberts' back tattoo memorializes various events from his appearances on the show.

Weather, plant and animal life, natural resources, and other factors vary widely from one region to the next. How do you prepare for an extended stay in an environment you’ve never experienced before?

I try to learn skills that are viable in most environments. Starting a fire in the jungle or the desert uses the same principles. It may be easier in one location, but the theory is the same.

Shelter is also the same in different environments. The resources may be different, but the process is similar. When I am in an unfamiliar area I look for “properties.” I can look at a plant and see if it has the same properties as a different plant that I know. I’m not talking about medicinal or edible plants (special care should be taken with those), but rather plants that can be used for fire, shelter building, or cordage.

This is where problem solving comes into play. You need to look at your environment, look for properties you recognize, and figure out your highest priority. Surviving on Vancouver Island is similar to Mongolia even though the area is vastly different. I still needed water, shelter, and food. Both places offered these resources; they just differed in availability and variety. VCI had mountain lions, wolves, and bears; Mongolia had poison snakes, very aggressive bears, boars, and wolves.

What’s the most impactful nugget of survival wisdom you’ve ever received?

Test your gear. Gear is great, and I love it, but you have to test it just like you test yourself. Don’t depend on untested gear — always try it out and test it.

Larry Roberts starting a fire.

What do you wish the viewers of Alone would understand as they’re watching the show?

It’s harder than it looks. Filming yourself is an incredible energy drain, especially on limited calories. We are really alone, and it is an amazing experience to be truly alone and testing your skills. Also, they don’t show everything we do out there, they simply don’t have the time in a one-hour TV show.

Do you have any advice for those aspiring survivalists contemplating how they’d fare in the wild?

Practice, practice, and practice. Be safe, practice in a controlled environment, and then slowly start to push yourself. “Own” your skills. Practice them until they become second nature.

Do you have any projects, classes, or other news you’d like to share with us?

I am a full-time electrician, so I don’t have regularly scheduled classes. I usually take some time and hold a winter class every year, but mostly the classes I teach are to folks who reach out and request a class.

Where can we find you online?

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Marlin Dark Series Review and 2024 Update

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Today, we live in a world of rapid innovation and obsolescence. Tools and technology that are common now are likely to be forgotten in a decade, if not much sooner. You’re probably not using a typewriter or telegraph to communicate in this era of laptops and smartphones. But there are exceptions to this rule — instances where the old ways may still have their merits. The surge in popularity of so-called tactical lever guns, such as this Marlin 336 Dark Series, illustrates this point.

Dark Series Lever Action Rifles (Re-Released)

Back in 2019, we reviewed the original Marlin Dark Series lever-action rifle, which was manufactured while Marlin was owned by Remington. Shortly after that review was published, Remington went bankrupt and ceased production of all Marlin rifles. Until recently, the Dark Series was out of production, and some enthusiasts wondered if it would ever return — that question has now been answered.

In 2023 and 2024, Marlin Firearms (now owned by Ruger) is re-releasing an updated version of the Dark Series Lever-Action Rifles, which blend the classic Marlin rifle design with modern features. The 2023 versions of these Dark Series rifles now come with a nylon-reinforced polymer stock, equipped with M-LOK attachment slots for mounting various accessories, enhancing their versatility. They also feature an anodized aluminum handguard with M-LOK slots, a threaded barrel with a factory-installed radial muzzle break, and a Picatinny rail for mounting optics. For improved visibility in low-light conditions, they are fitted with a fiber optic front sight with a tritium ring as well as a ghost ring rear sight.

Studio photo of the a Marlin Dark Series Lever Action rifle.

Among the new models, the Dark Series 1895 stands out. It's chambered in 45-70 Govt, with a 5+1 capacity, and a barrel length of 16.17 inches. The rifle is constructed with alloy steel and features a satin black finish. It weighs approximately 7 lbs and has an overall length of 35.5 inches. The bolt and lever are treated with a nitride finish for wear resistance, and the other major components are enhanced with a Graphite Black Cerakote finish for durability. Check out a review of the 1895 here:

The 1895 model is currently shipping with limited availability (2023) with an MSRP of $1,379. The other models in the series, including the Dark Series 336 and 1894, are expected to be available in early 2024.

Studio photo of the Marlin Dark Series Lever Action stock.

Above: Close up photo of the new Dark Series stock.

Studio photo of the Marlin Dark Series cheek riser.

Above: Close up of the new Dark Series cheek riser.

Studio photo of the Marlin Dark Series rail.

Above: Close up of the new Dark Series rail.

Studio photo of the new Marlin Dark Series handguard.

Above: Close up of the new Dark Series handguard.

Old, But Not Obsolete

The Marlin 336 was introduced in 1948, but the core of its design dates all the way back to the Model 1893, a rifle named after the year it began production. Prior to the turn of the 20th century, lever-action repeating rifles from Winchester, Henry, and Marlin quickly became popular among American frontiersmen, cowboys, and outlaws of the Old West. Today, those lever guns are seen as an iconic representation of an entire era of weapons, much like the Thompson of the prohibition period or the AR-15 of today. So, how can they still be relevant in 2020 and beyond?

marlin 336 dark series cover

Firstly, there’s an unfortunate but important legal reason: Lever-action guns are generally legal in all 50 states. If you live in one of the states that heavily restricts semi-automatic rifles, a lever gun can be a good way to avoid the headaches of “featureless” builds and fixed magazines. Even if you don’t live in one of those places, these rifles can come with you if you travel through them. I recently visited family in California, and although I couldn’t legally bring my suppressed SBR or even a basic AR-15, I could bring this Marlin 336 Dark Series.

In addition, the COVID-19 situation has served as a reminder that finding ammo won’t always be easy. When popular calibers such as .223 and 7.62×39 were impossible to find at local stores, I had no trouble picking up boxes of .30-30. This round packs a wallop, to say nothing of the mammoth .45-70 that’s another popular choice in this realm. Lever guns are also lightweight, reliable, and as we’ll show later in this article, surprisingly well-supported with aftermarket upgrades. Above all, they’re a ton of fun to shoot.

marlin 336 dark series left

Hello Darkness, My New Friend

During the last few years, we’ve noticed an increasing interest in lever-action rifles within the firearms community. A younger demographic appears to be realizing their merits, and these buyers are molding lever guns to their existing tastes — think black finishes and accessory rails instead of wood grain and stainless steel. Marlin embraced this movement with the release of the Model 336 Dark Series.

The Dark Series features several modern upgrades from the factory. The traditional 20-inch barrel is absent, replaced by a shorter 16.25-inch barrel atop the five-round tubular magazine. The muzzle has 5/8×24 threads that make it easy to add a brake or suppressor. An XS Lever Rail with integrated ghost ring sight is preinstalled, enabling the addition of your favorite red-dot sight or magnified optic. The gun also comes with a paracord-wrapped big loop lever and paracord sling, which can be unraveled for spare cordage in dire circumstances. Metal exterior parts have a matte black Parkerized finish, and the stock and forend have a black spatter finish (they’re painted wood, not polymer as some assume). Although the Model 336 Dark Series is only available in .30-30, Marlin offers a Model 1895 Dark Series chambered in .45-70.

marlin 336 dark series reciever

In unmodified form, we thoroughly enjoyed the Model 336. At under eight pounds, this rifle is easy to carry and maneuver. The lever and hammer cycled smoothly, and the trigger was crisp with minimal slack. We weren’t particularly fond of the big-loop lever — its large opening would be useful for someone wearing thick gloves, but in any other case, it slaps against the knuckles during the initial forward motion. This uncomfortable feeling is compounded by the rough paracord wrap. Reloading quickly takes some practice, but should feel familiar to anyone who has loaded a shotgun.

The ghost ring rear sight and thin front blade work fine, but aren’t exactly precise, especially during rapid follow-up shots. Thankfully, the XS rail allowed us to install a Trijicon RMR for a much clearer sight picture. The included low Picatinny rail mount is just right for a comfortable cheek weld.

Marlin’s Dark Series package makes the tried-and-true Model 336 into a great choice for the modern lever gun enthusiast. However, we still felt there was room to take this theme even further. Much like a gearhead adding disc brakes and fuel injection to an old Model A Ford, we decided to hot-rod the Marlin 336 with some aftermarket parts.

marlin 336 dark series accessories

Accessories

Optic: Trijicon RMR Type 2 Adjustable with Low Mount. Available at Europtic here.

Handguard: Midwest Industries M-LOK $162 on GRITRsports.

Scales: RailScales XOS (two) and XOS-H, Honeycomb pattern,
4-Slot $216 railscales.us

Handstop: RailScales Karve-P railscales.us

Spare Ammo Carriers: HopticUSA Quivers (two right-handed
on protoype 2×4 Mount, one left-handed) hopticusa.com

Light: Inforce WMLx Gen 2 on 5-slot M-LOK Rail
(included with handguard) on Brownell's.

Sling: Blue Force Gear Vickers Padded Sling, Magpul QD Swivel
and Mount, DIY Rear Sling Strap on Brownell's.

Muzzle Device: 2A Armament X3 Compensator $65 2a-arms.com

Trigger: Ranger Point Precision 3.5-Pound $110 rangerpointstore.com

Lever: Ranger Point Precision Super Lightweight Medium
Loop Lever and Lever Shims (two sets) $174 rangerpointstore.com

Additional Upgrades: Ranger Point Precision Hammer Spur
Extension, Quick Takedown Screw, Loading Gate Spring,
and Aluminum Magazine Follower $127 rangerpointstore.com

The Build: Marlin 336 Dark Series

Our first stop was Midwest Industries for their aluminum M-LOK handguard. This immediately gives the rifle a more contemporary look, and serves as a foundation for other accessories. Model 336 variants with a barrel band forend will require an extra adapter, but this handguard bolts onto the Dark Series without an adapter.

A front sling stud is included on the handguard, but we removed it. Instead of using the standard fixed sling to carry the rifle over a shoulder, we wanted to set it up to be worn across the chest with an adjustable two-point sling, like any other modern carbine. A Blue Force Gear Vickers padded sling is attached to the side of the handguard with a QD mount, and was rigged to the stock using a scrap of nylon webbing and some buckles from a parts bin. This setup is secure and accomplishes its purpose, but we plan to drill and tap the stock for a cleaner-looking, recessed QD socket in the future.

Inforce WML

Above: After experimenting with a few different light setups, we decided the Inforce WMLx was a good fit for this build. The button is easy to reach, and the bezel sits behind the ports on the 2A Armament X3 Compensator.

Next, we picked out some additional components for the M-LOK rails. RailScales supplied grippy G10 panels and a Karve handstop; these items make the rifle much easier to control with the support hand while cycling the lever quickly. The Marlin 336 Dark Series’ 5+1 capacity is one of its most substantial drawbacks, so this has been supplemented with six rounds of spare ammo on HopticUSA Quiver carriers — one on the left side, and two on the right. The right-side Quivers are mounted on a prototype of the company’s new 2×4 bracket, which angles the front two rounds outward for easier access. The extra ammo can be pulled out and fed directly into the magazine, much like a sidesaddle carrier on a competition shotgun. To make the rifle usable in low-light environments and nighttime home-defense situations, we installed an Inforce WMLx 800-lumen light at the 10-o’clock position.

hornady ammo

Lastly, we selected a few mechanical upgrades. Recoil from the .30-30 cartridge isn’t as severe as you might expect in standard form, but we chose a 2A Armament compensator to make it even more manageable. The less-than-ideal big loop lever was swapped out for a lightweight medium-loop lever from Ranger Point Precision, a Texas-based company that specializes in lever gun parts. Thin shims were used to ensure the lever has no side-to-side play in the receiver (they’re sold in packs of two, and our gun needed three, so buy some extras). RPP also supplied an improved trigger, takedown thumb screw, smoother Flyweight loading gate, durable aluminum magazine follower, and an extended hammer spur. These items combine to make the gun much smoother to shoot, cycle, and reload, resulting in a higher-quality feel.

Since we didn’t have experience working on lever guns and knew that gun designs of this era often require some finesse, we took the Marlin 336 Dark Series and its parts to Wright Armory in Mesa, Arizona. Their gunsmiths installed the internal upgrades, handguard, and compensator, and ensured everything was working smoothly and safely.

Brothers in Arms: 30-30 and 7.62 x 39

30-30 7.62 caliber comparison

In addition to the unique pros and cons of lever guns against more modern alternatives, we also took a look at the ballistic potential of the .30-30 cartridge itself, with an eye toward performance against light barriers in an urban environment (think car bodies and Sheetrock) as well as soft targets — whether two- or four-legged. As it turns out, the “vintage” .30-30 Winchester displays a striking resemblance to the Soviet-era 7.62x39mm. Despite being septuagenarian itself, the 7.62x39mm carries global notoriety for being barrier blind and brutally efficient inside of 200 yards, and it continues to shape the balance of world power well into the 21st century.

Both cartridges use a .30-inch bullet diameter, although 7.62x39mm slugs are generally lighter — typically 122-150 grain versus 150-170 grain for .30-30. Meeting in the middle, we compared the performance of a 150-grain soft-point in both calibers using the ballistic calculator on GunData.org. At 100 yards, the .30-30 bullet has nearly identical velocity, energy, and trajectory to 7.62×39. At 200 yards, velocity differs by about 7 percent and impact point differs by only a third of an inch. Stretching out to 300 yards, the .30-30’s velocity is 14 percent lower and its trajectory drops 2.3 inches below the 7.62×39 round.

If you decide to integrate a .30-30 lever gun into your preparedness plan, feel confident that it will hold its own as a mid-weight, midrange round for game-getting and gun-fighting alike, even keeping ballistic parity with arguably the most battle-tested cartridge of the last 75  years.

Rounds Downrange with the Marlin 336 Dark Series

Before heading to the range, we picked up a few boxes from Hornady’s selection of .30-30 ammo options, including 150-grain American Whitetail, 160-grain LeveRevolution, and 170-grain Subsonic. We were most impressed with the LeveRevolution cartridges, which feature FTX hollow point bullets with a pointed polymer FlexTip that improves velocity (and therefore expansion) compared to a typical flat-tip bullet. We noticed that this ammo also fed more smoothly, while flat-tip bullets would occasionally nose-dive and jam if we cycled the lever with the muzzle angled downward. The Subsonic ammo ran fine as well, but we primarily got it to complement our eventual plan to add a suppressor to this gun (stay tuned for more in a future article).

At the range, the modern two-point sling was an immediate improvement. Fixed slings make it difficult to unshoulder a rifle and get a sight picture quickly, and they’re certainly not suited to modern run-and-gun tactics. The RailScales and handstop also go a long way to make the Marlin 336 Dark Series easier to control while cycling the lever. Speaking of which, the Ranger Point Precision lever eliminated the issues we experienced with the big loop and gave the action a smoother feel.

marlin 336 dark series shooting

The original trigger was good, but RPP’s replacement is even lighter and more direct. It also eliminates the “flop” that’s present in the stock trigger when the hammer is cocked. Paired with the compensator and red-dot sight, it became easy to get multiple rounds on target in quick succession. Reloading is easy, too, thanks to the rounds staged in Quivers immediately in front of the lower-resistance RPP loading gate.

Naysayers might claim that lever guns belong in a museum, but this build reinforces the fact that, with a little work, these old-school rifles still have their place in the world of modern weapons. While they can’t match the sustained rate of fire of semi-autos with detachable 30-round magazines, lever guns can be an excellent option for those who live in places where those guns aren’t readily available. And no matter where you’re from, they’re sure to put a grin on your face as you run through a course of fire like a cowboy-turned-high-speed-operator. Those 1890s frontiersmen might be confused at the sight of this futuristic concoction, but we’re sure it’d win them over if given the chance.

FAQ

  • Q: Is the Marlin 336 Dark Series still in production?
    A: Under its new Ruger ownership, Marlin is reintroducing the Model 336 Dark Series with expected availability in early 2024.
  • Q: Who makes the Marlin 336 Dark?
    A: The Marlin 336 dark is made by the Marlin Firearms company, now under the umbrella of Sturm, Ruger & Co.
  • Q: What is a Marlin Dark?
    A: The Marlin Dark Series is a tactical lever action rifle with a matte black finish, MLOK handguard, and other modern upgrades.
  • Q: Does the Marlin 336 Dark have a threaded barrel?
    A: The muzzle has been threaded 5/8×24.
  • Q: What calibers does the Marlin Dark come in?
    A: Three variants are currently offered — the Model 336 Dark Series in . 30-30 Winchester, Model 1895 Dark Series in .45-70, and Model 1894 Dark Series in .44 Rem Mag / .44 Special.

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Foraging Satchel: A Compact Bag For Identifying And Collecting Wild Edibles

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Right now, no matter where you are, chances are you’re surrounded by useful natural resources. From the deepest wilderness to the inner city, nature provides a treasure trove of flavors and nutrients, waiting to be discovered by the adventurous forager. Whether you’re a seasoned wild food enthusiast or a curious beginner, having the right gear is essential for a successful foraging expedition. What you pack is highly dependent on what your personal situation is. This foraging satchel is focused on roots and other items low to the ground like flowers, berries, and mushrooms. Remember, foraging is not just about taking; it’s about understanding and respecting what nature can provide. Always forage responsibly and try to start out with an experienced guide who can help you on your journey.

Studio photo of everything included in the foraging satchel.

The Bag: Tuff Possum’s Shackleton

When it comes to foraging, you need a bag that’s rugged and versatile. The Shackleton EDC Satchel, inspired by the legendary Antarctic explorer Ernest Shackleton, is a practical companion for gathering wild resources. Its adjustable ITW Cobra buckle closure ensures quick and easy access, even with one hand. The slip pockets on either end hold essential tools like flashlights or folding saws — or in this case, the Wild Harvest Foraging Tool by LT Wright Knives — making them readily available. Inside, the PALS pattern loop panel offers modular organization for various tools and containers. The secondary weather flaps with ITW side release buckles offer protection against the elements, ensuring the contents remain dry and secure.

The satchel’s compact size, 12 by 9 by 4 inches, and weight of just 1.2 pounds make it a convenient choice for carrying small tools or collected resources. When you need to carry more gear, it can be buckled onto to hiking backpacks via four 1-inch mounting loops.

Studio photo of the Shackleton Bag by tough possum, being used as a foraging satchel.

Satchel Contents

Foraging Tools: Foraging isn’t just about picking; it’s about harvesting with care and precision. Les Stroud’s Wild Harvest Foraging Tool is a specialized knife designed for the task. With its unique blade shape and ergonomic handle, it allows you to cut, dig, and pry. Designed from the traditional Hori-Hori, and crafted with 5/32-inch A2 tool steel, it’s saber-ground with a false clip, allowing it to plunge effortlessly into the earth. The steel choice also offers corrosion resistance and ease of field sharpening.

An additional CJRB knife for work requiring a little more finesse is secured to the opening of the satchel. The CJRB Hyperlite is a 4-inch fixed blade that only weighs 3.5 ounces. Made from Artisan Cutlery’s proprietary AR-RPM9 steel, it’s durable and easy to keep sharp. It’s also a blade that won’t break the bank if it needs to be replaced.

Foraging Pouches: Collecting wild edibles requires containers that are both sturdy and accessible. PNW Bushcraft’s Waxed Canvas Foraging Pouch is great for this. Its waxed canvas material is resistant to the elements, and its hip-bag design ensures your finds are always within reach. Equipped with two sturdy snaps, the pouch easily clips onto belts up to 2 inches wide, leaving your hands free to collect. It also makes it easy to affix to the shoulder strap of the Shackleton. It’s the perfect size to hold a variety of items, from fire-starting materials to wild edibles and more. Hand sewn into the bottom is a durable mesh panel that’s great for allowing mushroom spores to scatter and provides a soft resting place for eggs or berries. When not in use, it simply folds up and snaps closed, becoming virtually unnoticeable.

The Wazoo Gear Foraging Bandana is another asset. It measures 22 inches across and is covered in detailed illustrations of the 12 most common wild plants and fungi of North America. These illustrations also indicate the field uses of all 12 plants and fungi, and each bandana includes 5 Steps of Identifying Edible Plants by Samuel Thayer and Rules and Ethics of Foraging by Mark Vorderbruggen. These insights have been carefully curated in cooperation with renowned experts like Dr. Nicole Apelian, ensuring that the information is both accurate and useful.

First Aid Kit: Safety first. A compact first aid kit is essential for treating minor injuries or allergic reactions in the field. This kit has an Uncharted Supply Co. first aid kit (includes a space blanket, aspirin, bandages, blister gel, Steri-Strips, and petroleum jelly) secured to a Woods Monkey Monkey Board for efficient organization and ease of access. On the back, a Viper Kydex tourniquet holster keeps a life-saving tourniquet easily accessible. Whether it’s used for fun or as a source of emergency sustenance, a Grim Workshop fishing kit is secured to the board. The kit also includes an Outdoor Element Fire Flute in case starting a fire or signaling for help might be needed. To round it out, there’s about 20 feet of Survivor Cord, which is similar to paracord, but has strands of snare wire, fishing line, and fire-starting cord along with the normal paracord “guts.”

Studio photo of the emergency kit that is packed in the foraging satchel.

Headlamp: Foraging doesn’t have to stop when the sun goes down. A quality headlamp will illuminate your path on your way back home or light up dark recesses for hands-free access. Coast makes some very affordable headlamps, and the one I have in the foraging satchels has a few settings that are great for a wild edible hunt, such as: a red light option and an emergency strobe.

Wild Edible Field Guides: One of the first things you learn as a beginner forager, is that many edible species have poisonous doppelgangers. Carrying field guides can help mitigate the risk of accidentally picking the wrong plant.

Note-Taking Supplies: Easy-to-use phone cameras have changed many dynamics about foraging but documenting your finds with a waterproof notebook and pen — especially where a plant was found and its growing conditions — can help when researching whether or not it’s safe to consume. It’s a great way to track your progress and share your knowledge with others in places where cell signals may be lacking.

Studio photo of the reference guide and notebook used in the field.

Gloves: Protect your hands from thorns and rough terrain with a pair of durable gloves. Wiley X Durtac gloves keep hands safe from knuckle busting rocks, deadfall, or other debris.

Extra Bags: You never know how bountiful your harvest might be. Carry extra bags to ensure you have enough space for all your finds.

UV Light: Some of the most sought-after foraged goods have a unique tell that gives them away. Morels and other foraging items can fluoresce under UV light. Carry a UV flashlight to uncover these hidden gems.

Foraging Satchel Make and Model

Shackleton EDC Satchel

URL: tuffpossumgear.com

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The Basics of Encrypted Radios

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DISCLAIMER: This article is intended to be a brief overview of encrypted radios, not an exhaustive guide. Nothing in this article should be construed as legal advice. Check your local laws and license policies before transmitting from any radio, encrypted or otherwise.

Humans are social creatures. From the moment we’re born, we begin working to communicate with those around us — it starts with parents, siblings, and extended family, then friends and classmates, and eventually coworkers, spouses, and children of our own. In the best of times, our ability to communicate is fundamental to our happiness, but it’s when things go wrong that we feel its true importance. Whether it’s lost hikers in the backcountry, a town devastated by a natural disaster, or a country ravaged by war, our instinct is to call for help from neighbors, authorities, and allies. Here is quick breakdown about encrypted communications:

However, there’s another truth that must be acknowledged: Humans are predators. Even before organized societies formed, we hunted to stay alive — not with tooth and claw, but with our wits and the tools we devised. First, we hunted animals for food, and then we hunted other humans to prevent them from taking our food. Thus came the never-ending series of conflicts that have defined (and destroyed) countless nations.

An adult male using a smoke signal at the edge of the lake.

Above: From the simplest smoke signal to complex satellite phones or GPS beacons, the ability to communicate is especially critical in an emergency.

These two characteristics — social communicator and intelligent hunter — go hand-in-hand. As our weapons and technology developed over the millennia, so have our abilities to communicate and hunt. But it didn’t take long for these skill sets to be weaponized against each other. When our enemies attempted to communicate, we sent spies to intercept their messages. Recognizing this danger, they attempted to obscure their communications through the use of codes. Recorded examples of this date back as far as 1900 BC, when ancient Egyptians used non-standard hieroglyphics to conceal the meaning of messages. In response, we have assigned some of our best and brightest minds to the task of decoding encoded messages. This led to the arms race of communication security (COMSEC) that rages on today.

The Value of Encryption

Icon of someone talking on a smartphone for the encrypted radios article.

“Why COMSEC is Important,” a U.S. Air Force memo published in 2018, explains succinctly:

Communication security can be something as simple as a decoder ring you received in the mail as a child or as advanced as an electronic mathematical algorithm created for securing satellite communications thousands of miles away in space.

Cryptographic security and the encryption of information are probably the most recognized disciplines within COMSEC. The military and other government entities use encryption to protect classified information, businesses use encryption to protect trade secrets, and hospitals use encryption to protect patient information. Encryption can also be used on computer systems to protect files containing personal information such as social security numbers, credit cards, tax information, email, and chat histories. This ensures that even if your laptop or cell phone is stolen, the data contained is still secure and unreadable by others.

The compromise or mismanagement of COMSEC can negatively impact our lives in many ways by means of identity theft, turning the tides of war, or possibly causing unnecessary loss of life.

Legality and Restrictions

Unfortunately, as is true with weapons and other powerful tools, encryption is often tightly controlled and jealously guarded by governments. This is especially true in nations with regimes that lean toward authoritarian control. Global Partners Digital, a London-based company that focuses on “bringing laws and policies relating to the digital environment more in line with international human rights standards,” provided the following ranking of encryption legality around the world:

Map of the continents color coded by how legal using encrypted radios are in each country.

  • Widespread Restrictions: China, Russia, India, Iran, Egypt, Cuba
  • Some Restrictions: United Kingdom, France, Germany, Brazil, Australia, New Zealand, Japan
  • Minimal Restrictions: United States, Canada, Ireland, Philippines

Refer to gp-digital.org/world-map-of-encryption for an interactive map with more details on each country’s policies.

While restrictions on encrypted communications are relatively lax in the U.S., there’s one area where they’re more stringent: amateur radio. In the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), Title 47 § 97.113 — “Prohibited transmissions,” the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) prohibits amateur radio users from transmitting “messages encoded for the purpose of obscuring their meaning.” This blanket statement effectively prohibits everything from advanced digital encryption to the use of simple code words with undisclosed meanings.

Photo of a motorola encrypted radio being held in someone's hand.

Above: The Motorola XTS 3000 is a common encryption-capable digital radio that can be purchased at a relatively affordable price from surplus sales/auctions.

Ostensibly, this policy is in place to preserve the open and non-commercial nature of amateur radio bands, since it wouldn’t be much fun if encrypted, indecipherable transmissions drowned out every attempt at casual conversation. But privacy-minded individuals may also see it as an attempt to impede their ability to communicate without Big Brother listening in. Lending some validity to these concerns, the FCC published a public Enforcement Advisory on January 17, 2021, in response to the January 6 incident at the Capitol. It stated the following:

The [FCC Enforcement] Bureau has become aware of discussions on social media platforms suggesting that certain radio services regulated by the Commission may be an alternative to social media platforms for groups to communicate and coordinate future activities. The Bureau recognizes that these services can be used for a wide range of permitted purposes … [but they] may not be used to commit or facilitate crimes.

Specifically, the Bureau reminds amateur licensees that they are prohibited from transmitting “communications intended to facilitate a criminal act” or “messages encoded for the purpose of obscuring their meaning.” Likewise, individuals operating radios in the Personal Radio Services, a category that includes CB, FRS, GMRS, and MURS are prohibited from using those radios “in connection with any activity which is against Federal, State or local law.” Individuals using radios in the Amateur or Personal Radio Services in this manner may be subject to severe penalties, including significant fines, seizure of the offending equipment, and, in some cases, criminal prosecution.

Regardless of your thoughts on the events that transpired that day, the message is clear. The FCC and other U.S. government agencies are paying close attention to encoded/encrypted civilian two-way radio communications, especially those that might relate to illegal activities or perceived national security concerns.

Above: Digital encrypted radios using the P25 standard are common among law enforcement agencies.

Exceptions: Of course, there are exceptions to the radio encryption rules. Military, law enforcement, and emergency services are exempt, and use of encrypted radios is common among these groups (mostly the first two). That should come as no surprise — refer to our previous point about governments jealously guarding powerful tools. (See also: the National Firearms Act of 1934.)

The other exception is for businesses. After obtaining the appropriate license, they can use frequencies within the Industrial / Business pool, which do allow encryption. Obtaining an Industrial / Business license involves navigating some fairly substantial red tape, as well as paying several hundred dollars in fees. You’ll need to file an FCC Form 601 online to provide information about your business, the specific frequencies you intend to use, the number of radios that will operate on the system, output power of each radio, antenna type and placement for stationary installations, and so on. There are specific requirements for eligibility, so you’ll need to confirm that your business meets these requirements before applying. And, of course, if your business violates any of the regulations, the punishments will be substantial.

Aside from these exceptions, any use of encryption on Amateur (ham) radio frequencies and Personal radio frequencies (e.g. those used by FRS and GMRS walkie-talkies) is illegal.

P25 Radio Standard

Above: The Motorola XTS 3000 can be used as stand-alone handsets, or can be connected to a variety of headsets and PTT systems.

Project 25, aka P25, is a set of standards developed by the Association of Public Safety Communications Officials International (APCO) so that “emergency responders can exchange critical communications across agencies and jurisdictions.” It specifies the use of digital two-way radios, which are backward-compatible with analog wideband and narrowband radio systems. This means that P25 radios can transmit voice and data to other P25 digital radios but can also communicate with common analog radios (FRS walkie-talkies, Baofeng handhelds, off-road mobile radios, and so on). P25 radios are widely used by police, fire, ambulance, and emergency rescue services.

Devices that meet the P25 standard can be used without encryption, in which case anyone with a P25-compatible digital radio will be able to listen in and respond. For higher-security applications, these radios can also be set up to use the 56-bit Data Encryption Standard (DES) or 256-bit Advanced Encryption Standard (AES).

DES and AES Encryption

DES encryption was developed by IBM and adopted by the U.S. government in 1977. Its 56-bit cipher was quite secure at its inception, but by the 1990s, the rapid advancement of computing power had made it possible to overcome DES through brute force — a computer could randomly guess the key in less than 24 hours. This led to the development of a much more secure system, AES, which was officially recognized by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) in 2002.

AES is available in three flavors: 128-bit, 192-bit, and the most secure, 256-bit. The former two systems require less computing power to encrypt and decrypt, but in exchange, offer less security. As processors got faster, AES-256 became the gold standard. You use AES-256 every single day without thinking about it — it’s integrated into the NTFS Windows file system, SSL/TLS security certificates for online banking and commerce web pages, password managers, messaging apps, VPN services, and much more. It’s the only publicly available cipher approved by the National Security Agency (NSA) for top secret data storage, and the 2012 Edward Snowden leaks showed that the NSA had also spent years attempting — unsuccessfully — to break it.

So, how secure is AES-256? Unless you obtain the encryption key to decrypt the data, it can be considered virtually unbreakable when implemented correctly. According to a calculation by The SSL Store, successfully guessing the sequence of 256 ones and zeros that make up a key would likely take a millions of  years to decrypt — and that’s if you were using the combined power of every single computer on Earth. Although the advent of quantum computing will probably make this type of encryption obsolete in the not-so-far future. Of course, any security system is only as strong as its weakest link, so hackers will seek work-arounds rather than attempting to defeat AES-256.

Encrypted Radio Vulnerabilities

We’re looking at radios from an emergency preparedness standpoint, not one of business logistics. Therefore, we’re less concerned with competitors overhearing our trade secrets, and more concerned with malicious individuals overhearing information that could help them find and victimize us. AES-256 encryption will prevent even the most tech-savvy criminals from listening to your conversations and can stand up to government-level scrutiny. However, there are other vulnerabilities that must be considered.

RDF: The first vulnerability is one that no amount of encryption will solve. Radio Direction Finding, or RDF, is used to determine the location and movement of a transmitter. It’s not necessary to be able to understand a transmission to determine where it’s coming from. RDF is often used by military units to track down and destroy enemy radio installations or jammers, as well as by search and rescue organizations to find lost individuals. This skill isn’t exclusive to trained professionals — it’s also a hobby among radio enthusiasts, who conduct “fox hunting” competitions to locate transmitters hidden inside (or moving through) a designated search area. Enthusiasts have also been known to track down and report illegal pirate radio stations that encroach on amateur frequencies.

Above: Polaris RDF is an Android app used by search and rescue personnel to locate targets using radio-based emergency beacons.

RDF can be accomplished with a single directional receiver, or with multiple receivers to triangulate a transmitter. Professionals have precise tools designed specifically for this task, with spinning DF antennas that can scan a broad range of frequencies in a 360-degree area.
If you believe there’s a risk of someone using RDF to locate you, it’s wise to be erratic. Only transmit in short bursts, move to different locations as often as possible, and never follow a predictable schedule.

Hardware Interception: There’s no need to pick a lock or smash a window if a criminal can just steal the key. Similarly, encryption can be defeated by capturing one of the radios that has been programmed with the encryption key, or by capturing the computer that was used to program the radios. There’s plenty of historical precedent for this — many of the breakthroughs leading up to the eventual defeat of the German Enigma Machine cipher during WWII were the result of Allied forces capturing machine components, codebooks, and radio operators who could be interrogated.

Aside from common-sense physical security measures to prevent radios from falling into the wrong hands, the risk of hardware interception can be reduced through periodically loading new encryption keys. Large organizations often use over-the-air rekeying (OTAR) to load new encryption keys into digital radios that are already out in the field. The U.S. Military adopted this as a standard procedure in 1988, and it became a NATO standard soon after. The NSA created an advanced form of OTAR known as the Electronic Key Management System (EKMS). Using OTAR, network administrators can remotely issue new keys to all radios at the push of a button or deactivate individual radios on demand.

Above: A Russian Krasukha-2 radio jamming station. (Photo via Mil.ru, CC 4.0)

Jamming: In a report titled “Security Weaknesses in the APCO Project 25 Two-Way Radio System,” University of Pennsylvania Department of Computer and Informational Science researchers concluded that “P25 systems are highly susceptible to selective jamming attacks, in which an attacker can jam specific kinds of traffic (such as encrypted messages or key management traffic).” The report explains that jamming attacks are “not only feasible but highly efficient, requiring, for example, significantly less aggregate energy output from a jammer than from the legitimate transmitters.” Through selective jamming, “encrypted [radio] users can be forced (knowingly or unknowingly) to revert to unencrypted mode.”

Above: Small, man-portable jammers have become a popular tool among Mexican drug cartels. They seem to go hand-in-hand with another piece of tech the cartels have adopted: aerial drones.

What does this mean to us? If you ever find yourself up against a highly sophisticated, state-sponsored threat — this is the absolute worst-case scenario — it’s possible that jamming attacks will be used to block transmissions on certain frequencies or force you to communicate without encryption. The report states, “[selective jamming attacks] can prevent encrypted traffic from being received and can force the users to disable encryption, or can be used to deny service altogether.”

Short of physically disabling the jammer or moving outside its range, there’s not much you can do to prevent these high-tech, targeted attacks. Like we said earlier, AES-256 encryption is extremely secure, but knowledgeable hackers will always be looking for work-arounds.

Closing Thoughts

Photo of Tom Marshal using encrypted radios to communicate.

Buying a security system is one thing; understanding how it works is another thing entirely. Before attempting to obtain encrypted radios, it’s critical to understand the basics of how these systems work, why they’re valuable, and what their potential vulnerabilities are. We hope this article has been helpful in that regard. Armed with this knowledge and the matching hardware, your COMSEC plan will be ahead of the curve long before any disaster — man-made or natural — knocks out cell towers and Wi-Fi.

If a day comes when the proverbial excrement hits the fan, encrypted radios can serve as a priceless lifeline to your family and friends that keeps not-so-friendly listeners at bay.

Encrypted Radios FAQ

  • Q: Are encrypted radios legal?
    A: It depends on the laws in whichever country you are using an encrypted radio. In most countries it is not legal, so it pays to research which laws might affect you.
  • Q: Can civilians get encrypted radios?
    A: Some radios have built-in encryption options, but if someone else has a similar model, they will most likely be able to listen to transmissions from other radios of the same type.
  • Q: Is it illegal to decrypt police radio?
    A: In the United States, Federal and state laws make intercepting and divulging radio communications illegal and punishable by severe criminal penalties, with certain exceptions.

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Gear Up: New Survival Gear For October 2023

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Welcome back to our dive into the world of gear! In this edition of Gear Up, we explore the latest innovations and reliable classics that are key to staying prepared for any challenge. From cutting-edge technology to time-tested tools, our focus is on equipping you with insights and information that keep you one step ahead wherever the journey of life may take you. Whether you're bracing for the unknown or fine-tuning your preparedness kit, join us as we unpack the must-haves for this month.

Spy Briefing Gear Tactical Spy Pen

NOTES

Engineered as a multifunctional tool, the Tactical Spy Pen is made of a solid block of metal and features a pointed tip. This design allows it to serve as a self-defense tool, capable of stopping an attacker. Additionally, it can be used as a glass-breaking device in emergency situations. It also has a fully functioning pen feature, rounding out its design as a versatile tool. In a crisis, having a tool that can be rapidly deployed against a threat can mean the difference between safety and danger. The Tactical Spy Pen also comes with a 45-minute training video, providing insights into carrying, spotting threats, and other strategies.

Studio photo of the Tactical Spy Pen by Spy Briefing Gear.

COLOR

Titanium

MSRP

$35

URL

spybriefinggear.com

Condor Tool & Knife Terrachete Machete

NOTES

Meet the Terrachete Machete by Condor Tool & Knife. This versatile machete is crafted for everyone, from the seasoned woodsman to the casual outdoor enthusiast. With a blade length of 14.6 inches made from 1075 High Carbon Steel and a Condor Classic finish, it's built to endure harsh environments. The ergonomic thermoplastic handle ensures comfort and control, while the unique grind design offers a tougher edge near the tip and a more controlled carving edge near the handle. Weighing 25.4 ounces, it's substantial yet manageable. The extended pommel adds to its functionality, and the high-impact polypropylene sheath with a leather belt loop ensures safe storage. Whether you're navigating through dense brush or engaging in precise carving, the Terrachete Machete is a reliable cutting tool you can count on.

Studio photo of the Terrachete Machete by Condor Tool & Knife.

MATERIAL

1075 High Carbon Steel

MSRP

$70

URL

condortk.com

Artisan Cutlery CJRB Hyperlite

NOTES

The CJRB Hyperlite J1922B is a fixed blade knife that's a unique blend of functionality and lightweight design. Created in collaboration with outdoor and bushcraft enthusiast Joe Flowers, this knife is a cross between a wide bushcrafting blade and a tiny machete. With a 4.2-inch AR-RPM9 powdered steel blade, it features a powerful full flat grind and a wide fuller to reduce weight. The comfortable G10 handle ensures a firm grip in various positions. Weighing only 3.5 ounces, it’s one of the few featherweight full-sized fixed blades, making it an ideal hiking companion or a backup to a larger fixed blade or ax. The sand polish finish adds a touch of elegance, and it comes with a rope and sheath for convenience.

Studio photo of the CJRB Hyperlite by Artisan Cutlery.

WEIGHT

3.5 ounces

MSRP

$60

URL

artisancutlery.net

Cold Steel Click-N-Cut Hunting Kit

NOTES

Cold Steel’s Click-N-Cut Hunting Kit is designed for outdoorsmen who want to maintain quality without adding unnecessary weight to their pack. This field kit offers five interchangeable blades, including a 3.5-inch caper blade, 4-inch skinning blade with gut hook, 4-inch general-purpose blade, 5-inch boning blade, and 6-inch bone saw. The textured handle provides an easy grip, enhancing the user's control and precision. The kit also includes a case for convenient storage and transport. The Click-N-Cut Field Kit is positioned as a go-to option for many hunters and fishermen, with a wide range of blades for their specific needs. Overall, it’s a versatile tool that could be a valuable addition to an outdoor enthusiast’s gear, offering multiple blade options in a single, lightweight package.

Studio photo of the Click-N-Cut Hunting Kit by Cold Steel.

BLADES

5

MSRP

$100

URL

coldsteel.com

Grim Workshop Pocket Survival Fishing Kit

NOTES

In a survival situation, the ability to catch fish can be lifesaving, providing essential nutrients. Grim’s Pocket Survival Fishing Kit is a versatile and compact tool designed for both novice and experienced fishermen. It includes a card caster handline fishing reel, fishing lure card, specialty hook survival fishing card, line card with deployable waxed line, survival tip cards, and a fishing accessory storage tin. The entire kit weighs under 3 ounces and fits conveniently in a pocket or tackle box. The reusable hooks and lures, made from high-grade stainless steel, offer durability and rust resistance. Included tip cards with information on jug fishing, trapping, and improvised fishing lures adds value for survival scenarios. Whether for kayaking, camping, hiking, or as a backup in a bug-out bag, this kit offers practical solutions for fishing needs.

Studio photo of the Pocket Survival Fishing Kit by Grim Workshop.

SIZE

2.25 by 3.75 inches

MSRP

$45

URL

grimworkshop.com

Kokopelli Rogue-Lite X

NOTES

The Rogue-Lite X by Kokopelli is a packraft designed for adventure enthusiasts. Constructed with DuPont Kevlar from floor to sidewalls, it offers a strong strength-to-weight ratio, making it extremely durable. Weighing 10.4 pounds and packing down to the size of a paper towel roll, it’s suitable for lakes, oceans, and Class I rivers. The Rogue-Lite X includes an Inflation Bag, Inflation Tube, Compression Strap Set, and Emergency Repair Kit. Its Leafield D7 valve, 5-inch inflatable seat, and auto pressure relief valve add to its functionality. Lightweight and compact, the Rogue-Lite X’s design allows for quick deployment in emergency water crossings or as a means of transportation across bodies of water.

Studio photo of the Rogue-Lite X by Kokopelli.

WEIGHT

10.4 pounds

MSRP

$1,099

URL

kokopelli.com

Mission First Tactical MFT Belly Band Holster

NOTES

Designed for activities such as walking, jogging, hiking, and biking, the MFT Belly Band Holster offers a versatile carrying solution. Made with 3D Spacer Mesh Fabric, it ensures efficient airflow and comfort, while its Open-Air Weave Construction hinders bacterial growth. Safety is enhanced with a Hard Laminate Trigger Shield, and two Elastic pockets allow for carrying spare magazines, knives, or flashlights. Additionally, two secure YKK Zippered Storage Pockets can hold essentials like cash, keys, or a phone. Ambidextrous and fitting waist sizes from 26 to 52 inches, this holster provides a secure and comfortable way to carry essential items. For situations where it’s not viable to wear a traditional gun belt and Kydex holster, this belly band holster is a practical and discreet option.

Studio photo of the MFT Belly Band Holster by Mission First Tactical.

STYLE

Ambidextrous

MSRP

$50

URL

missionfirsttactical.com

AXIL XCOR

NOTES

AXIL’s XCOR earbuds are a unique blend of technology and practicality, designed to enhance and protect hearing. With a 29dB Single Number Rating (SNR), these earbuds offer features that can be vital in challenging environments. The Hear Control allows users to be aware of their surroundings, while the Digital Hearing Protection compresses loud noises instead of shutting them off, safeguarding against damaging sounds over 85 dB. This ensures that you can still hear essential sounds while being shielded from potential harm. The earbuds also come with Bluetooth audio, enabling connection to devices for whatever is on your playlist, and the ability to answer calls or texts. With a battery life of up to 12 hours for Hear Control only, and water, dust, and wind resistance, these earbuds can be a reliable companion in situations where maintaining situational awareness and communication is crucial.

Studio photo of the XCOR by AXIL.

CONNECTIVITY

Bluetooth

MSRP

$349

URL

goaxil.com

Pnuma Outdoors Palisade Puffy Jacket

NOTES

The Palisade Puffy Jacket by Pnuma Outdoors is engineered to withstand various elements. This lightweight jacket offers exceptional warmth through innovative insulation technology, coupled with a water-repellent and quick-drying outer shell. Features like YKK sealed Aquaguard zippers, an integrated stuff sack, fitted hood, and Polygiene treatments for odor control make it a practical choice for outdoor enthusiasts. Weighing 25.6 ounces, it’s made of 100 percent polyester with a blend of synthetic and down insulation. In challenging conditions, where maintaining body heat and staying dry are essential, having a warm jacket can be a vital asset.

Studio photo of the Palisade Puffy Jacket by Pnuma.

COLORS

Beluga, Caza

MSRP

$310

URL

pnumaoutdoors.com

Thin Air Gear Wide Track Deployment Bag

NOTES

Designed for those who need to be prepared for any situation, Thin Air Gear’s Wide Track Deployment Bag offers a blend of functionality and durability. Measuring 30 by 20 by 11 inches with a capacity of 6,600 cubic inches, this bag is constructed from robust 500D MIL-spec Cordura fabric. It features a 9-inch cloth pull handle, 14-inch retractable handle, and 4-inch polyurethane HD wheels, making it both wheelable and hangable. The 360-degree closed-cell foam protection and ballistic nylon back add to its resilience. With YKK #10 lockable zippers, seven interior storage pockets, and a tan 420D pack-cloth interior, there are plenty of accessible organization options. The 3D aerospace mesh and double-stitched/bartacked construction enhance its longevity. This bag provides immediate access to necessary tools and equipment.

Studio photo of the Wide Track Deployment Bag by Thin Air Gear.

DIMENSIONS

30 by 20 by 11 inches

MSRP

$339

URL

thinairgearusa.com

Vyper Kydex Tourniquet Carrier

NOTES

Vyper Kydex’s Tourniquet Carrier is a must-have accessory for those who understand the importance of immediate response to trauma. Crafted with industry-standard .08 Kydex and equipped with steel hardware, this carrier offers adjustable retention and is available with either belt or MOLLE attachments. It’s specifically built to accommodate the North American Rescue CAT Tourniquet series, ensuring a perfect fit. The design prioritizes quick access without any special actions; just yank it out and it’s ready to use. Whether you’re in the military, law enforcement, or other public safety roles, having this carrier means that a vital piece of kit is always within reach.

Studio photo of the Tourniquet Carrier by Vyper Kydex.

COLORS

Black, Coyote, OD Green, Storm Gray

MSRP

$45

URL

vyperkydex.com

Bubba Goose Design The Wolf Pack

NOTES

Introducing the Bubba Goose Wolf Pack, a backpack designed for both lightweight convenience and heavy-duty performance. Available in three sizes — narrow, regular, and wide — it’s tailored to fit a wide range of body frames. Crafted from U.S.-milled military surplus 1000 denier Cordura and reinforced nylon laminate, it promises durability and a lifetime of use. Weighing less than 2 pounds makes it relatively easy to carry, while the padded Alice Pack-style shoulder harness ensures comfort. The exterior pockets, large zipper pocket, and neon green signal panel add functionality and style. Hand-sewn in Seattle, Washington, and assembled from U.S.-milled fabrics, it’s a great everyday rucksack.

Studio photo of The Wolf Pack by Bubba Goose Design.

VOLUME

21L (+10L for outside pockets)

MSRP

$230

URL

bubbagoosedesign.com

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Hello Morse: Learn Morse Code with Google

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In the past, we've written several articles about the value of Morse code. Whether you're learning it as a means of transmitting information non-verbally in dire emergencies, or as a subtle way to communicate a few words or phrases, Morse code is a valuable tool in any survivalist's toolbox. Also, while it may feel imposing to attempt to interpret fast sequences of dots and dashes, it's not a hard skill to learn if you give it some time. This learning process is also made easier thanks to free resources like Google's Hello Morse tools.

The standard list of Morse code combinations can be tricky to memorize unaided.

Introduction to Hello Morse

Hello Morse is a collection of “experiments inspired by Morse code on Android Gboard.” Gboard is Google's name for its touchscreen keyboard, available for Android or iOS. It offers numerous languages, including Morse code. If you have Gboard set up, you can go activate the Morse keyboard and start practicing immediately — it even provides predictive suggestions as you tap out dots and dashes. However, if you want to establish a baseline of skill before diving in, check out the Hello Morse page on experiments.withgoogle.com.

The Morse Keyboard

Google partner developer Tania Finlayson encouraged coders to create games, teaching tools, and other experiments based on the Gboard Morse keyboard. These include morse.withgoogle.com/learn — a free app for your phone or desktop browser. It uses memorable pictograms to illustrate the dot/dash combinations for each letter, then asks you to tap the appropriate combination, first with the pictograms and then without them. See below for a list of all the pictograms (click here to download a poster-size version).

Above: Pictograms used to help learn the combinations of Morse Code dots and dashes.

Other Hello Morse Applications

The Hello Morse page also contains other interesting applications of Gboard Morse, such as Hello, Emmett!, a game where you guide a character through a maze by typing the correct letters in Morse (this one only works on a phone with Gboard installed). Check out this video of Hello Morse in action:

FAQ

  • Q: What is Hello Morse?
    A: Hello Morse is a collection of AI and Chrome experiments inspired by Morse code on Android Gboard.
  • Q: What does 3 dots mean in Morse code?
    A: 3 dots in Morse code signifies the letter “S”.
  • Q: How do you tap SOS in Morse code?
    A: An SOS sent by Morse code is a well-known distress signal. It is three short taps followed by three long taps, and then finished three short taps again.
  • Q: What are Morse code signals?
    A: Morse code is a communication method used encode text characters as sequences of two different signal durations, called dots and dashes, or dits and dahs.
  • Q: What does SOS stand for in Morse code?
    A: SOS is Morse code for “Save Our Ship”. Although it was originally used for ships in distress, it has evolved to be an alert for any emergency situation.
  • Q: Is it hard to learn Morse code?
    A: Learning Morse code is not too difficult. However, it takes diligent practice to become proficient.

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Holosun DRS: New Red Dot + Thermal Hybrid Optic

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Thermal imaging is an incredibly powerful technology, whether it's being used for hog hunting, tracking fugitives from a helicopter, or locating enemy troops on a battlefield. It illuminates warm-blooded creatures instantly, even if they're visually camouflaged and motionless. At SHOT Show 2023 this week, Holosun unveiled an exciting new hybrid optic called the Holosun DRS (Digital Reflex Sight) that integrates a thermal or digital night vision overlay onto a standard red dot. Although it's not ready for retail release yet, there are a handful of prototypes undergoing testing, and we got our hands on both variants at the SHOT Show Range Day. Before we go on, sign up for our free email newsletter to stay up to date on all the latest gear and emergency preparedness info!

Holosun DRS Red Dot Hybrid Optic

holosun-drs-thermal-red-dot-sight-optic-closeup

The new Holosun DRS (formerly known as the DMS in its prototype phase) appears to be based on the popular Holosun AEMS, a compact, enclosed-emitter red dot with flip-down lens covers. However, in this case the front cover is opaque instead of clear. When it's flipped down, the optic works just like a normal red dot with adjustable brightness and Holosun's selectable dot or circle-dot reticles.

When the front lens cover is flipped up, you can press a button to activate the DRS's secondary optical system, which will be projected onto the black window behind the red dot reticle. Since the red dot is independent of the background image, the optic maintains the same zero at all times, day or night.

DRS Versions

We checked out two Holosun DRS sub-models, each with a different secondary overlay:

  • DRS-TH – Thermal optic with various image modes
  • DRS-NV – Digital night vision camera (think along the same lines as the Sionyx Aurora Pro) with infrared illuminator

holosun-drs-thermal-red-dot-sight-optic-rifle

Above: Editor Tom Marshall tests the Holosun DRS-NV. It can be identified by the top-mounted digital night vision camera, which is slightly smaller than the DRS-TH thermal camera.

DRS Capabilities

The red dot and secondary thermal or NV optic are independent of one another, so during the day you can leave the secondary optic disabled to conserve battery life. Speaking of batteries, the unit is powered by two 18350 rechargeable lithium batteries, which can be charged directly inside the DRS optic via a built-in USB port on the right side of the housing.

That USB port also offers the ability to stream footage to a secondary screen in real-time, so you could connect your DRS to a tablet and use it to observe a static position without getting behind the weapon.

holosun-drs-thermal-red-dot-sight-digital-night-vision

Above: The Holosun DRS-TH Pro (left, with opaque cover flipped down) and DRS-NV (right, with cover flipped up). Note the small protrusion next to the NV camera lens — that's an infrared illuminator for use in environments with no ambient light, such as dark buildings without windows. The illuminator can be toggled on and off independently.

holosun-drs-thermal-red-dot-sight-optic-screen

Above: We took several photos and video clips through a pre-production DRS-TH Pro during SHOT Show. This image shows the view with the front cover up and the red dot sight turned on. Ignore the slight blur that was induced by holding our camera behind the optic — the display is quite sharp in person. Click here for a video of the DRS-TH Pro in action.

DRS Performance

Initial performance impressions were good, with a clear image and fast refresh rate. The DRS-NV image appeared somewhat dim during our morning trip to the range, but this is understandable due to the bright daylight conditions; it should be much easier to see in the dark conditions it was designed for. The DRS-TH showed body heat prominently in the daylight, with a bright red dot on top.

holosun-drs-thermal-red-dot-sight-night-vision-screen

Above: The DRS-NV digitally intensifies visible and infrared light to generate a monochrome image of the environment. This photo was taken indoors in a well-lit area, but we hope to test it in the dark soon. The red dot sight is turned off in this photo.

Holosun hasn't finalized the designs and features of these optics, but we're told the DRS-NV should be priced under $1,000. That's impressive considering an AEMS red dot is nearly half that without the extra optical system on top. As for the thermal DRS-TH, there will be a standard model available for approximately $1,600 and a premium, higher-resolution DRS-TH Pro model available for about $2,300. We'll keep you posted once we have more details about availability, and we're already planning a thorough review as soon as final production samples are available from Holosun.

Update: Holosun Wins “Best of SHOT Show 2023” Award

After walking through the manufacturer booths at SHOT Show 2023, the Recoil staff discussed which product would win their “Best of Show” award. Since the Holosun DRS brings advanced thermal and night vision technology to the consumer market at an attainable price, our editors agreed it should receive this coveted title. Check out the video below from RecoilTV to watch the award announcement:

FAQ

  • Q: When will the Holosun Thermal DRS be released?
    A: Their has not been an official announcement, but there is speculation that it will release Q4 of 2023.
  • Q: How much does a Holosun Thermal DRS cost?
    A: As of October 2023, the DRS-TH is still expected to cost about $1,599, and the the night vision version, the DRS-NV costs about $999.
  • Q: Is Holosun a Chinese company?
    A: Holosun is a U.S. company; however, their manufacturing, like most U.S. based companies, takes place in China.
  • Q: Which Holosun is used in the military?
    A: Holosun is used by thousands of military and law enforcement personnel. According to some sources, the top three models used in these professions are the 509T, the EPS, and the 508T.

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Water Purification: Minimum Boiling Time and Other Methods

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If you've ever read about water purification on internet forums or social media, it's likely that you encountered at least one person who asked, “how long should water be boiled before it's considered safe?” This is a common question, and one that's prudent to ask — after all, you wouldn't want to take any chances of consuming bacteria or protozoa that will make you severely ill. Unfortunately, this question has also led to the spread of some misinformation on the topic. (Sign up for our free newsletter to stay caught up on more life saving info like this!)

Water over rocks

Above: This water may appear clear and clean, but it can contain invisible pathogens that will definitely ruin your day.

Safe Water Is Crucial

The importance of utilizing safe, clean water cannot be overstated, in both everyday and emergency scenarios. It's the linchpin that holds the continuum of health, hygiene, and survival together. Unsafe water can harbor harmful microorganisms and chemicals that can cause serious health problems. Diseases such as cholera, dysentery, and typhoid can spread through contaminated water. By using safe water, you significantly reduce the risk of contracting or spreading these diseases.

Clean water is crucial for the body’s absorption of nutrients. It aids in digestion and ensures that the nutrients from the food we eat are effectively absorbed by the body. In emergency situations, having access to safe water can be a lifesaver. It reduces your vulnerability to diseases at times when medical resources might be scarce. Staying hydrated is vital for maintaining energy levels and physical health, especially during emergencies where physical exertion and stress levels might be high.

Safe water is essential for hygiene practices like washing hands, cleaning, and cooking. It helps in preventing infections, maintaining a clean environment, and promoting overall sanitation. Utilizing safe water for cooking and cleaning food is crucial to prevent foodborne illnesses, which can be particularly hazardous in emergency scenarios.

Boiling Water

First of all, you may hear self-proclaimed “experts” on the internet say that water must be boiled for a minimum time of 5 minutes, 10 minutes, or even 20 minutes to ensure that all waterborne pathogens have been killed. This minimum boiling time constraint is a myth, and we'll explain why.

Scientific research tells us that waterborne pathogens (bacteria, protozoa, and viruses) are killed or inactivated at high temperatures. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention,  a rolling boil for at least 1 minute, will kill most bacteria, protozoa, and viruses.

Water purification warning sign

Most bacteria, protozoa and viruses will be killed in temperatures as low as 150°F, and we know that water boils* at 212°F (100°C). This means that by the time water has reached a rolling boil, it will be safe to drink.

Boiling Water at Higher Altitudes

*Now, there is one important clarification: the 212°F boiling point we mentioned is at sea level, and boiling temperature changes with altitude. The higher you are above sea level, the lower the boiling point of water will be. For example, at 10,000 feet, the boiling point drops to 193.6°F (89.8°C). At the summit of Mt. Everest, an immense 29,029 feet, the boiling point is 158°F (70°C). So, even at the highest point on earth, bringing water to a rolling boil will kill pathogens in less than 1 minute. For an added margin of safety, the CDC recommends boiling for 3 minutes at altitudes above 6,562 feet.

woman-on-top-of-a-mountain

Above: While altitude changes the boiling point of water, it's not significant enough to affect purification by...

Filtering Water

You might think that by going to your local camping supply store, and buying a filter would solve the need for having to boil water. But you could be purchasing a misleading product if you aren't aware of the nuances involved. To make sure you're getting the right filter for the job, you need to be aware of what the filter rating actually means.

Water filters and purifiers are typically measured and rated to remove 99.X percent of viruses, bacteria, or protozoan cysts. Each digit in this percentage represents a power of 10, also called a “log” (short for logarithm). For example, a filter rated to remove 99.99 percent of bacteria would be rated at a “4-log bacteria reduction.”

If your water had exactly 1,000,000 microbes in it, a 4-log reduction would mean only 100 of those microbes would be left in the water after treatment — 999,900 microbes would be removed. A 6-log or 99.9999-percent reduction would leave only 1 microbe in the water. 

If all of that was confusing, we cover it more extensively in our water filter buyers guide. But the long story short is: not all filters are created equally, and it pays to do your due diligence before relying on one for safe drinking water. Check out the video below to learn more about how water filters work, and what to look for on a label.

Disinfecting Water

Water disinfection is a crucial skill, especially in emergency situations where access to clean water may be compromised. It's a basic yet critical aspect of survival and preparedness. Here are several methods to purify water, making it safe for consumption:

  • Chemical disinfectants like iodine or chlorine tablets are portable and effective against many pathogens. They're a good choice for a bug-out bag or other portable emergency kit. The downside is they may leave an unpleasant taste, and they aren't effective against some cysts like Cryptosporidium.

  • Portable UV light purifiers are also available. They're effective against a wide range of microorganisms, including those resistant to chlorine. The drawback is they require batteries and may not work well in cloudy or turbid water.

https://youtu.be/ourrdz2RYaM?si=hdoeEn_AeHNf7R2t

  • Distillation involves boiling water and then collecting the vapor, which leaves behind contaminants. Distillation can remove bacteria, viruses, protozoa, and chemicals. It's more energy-intensive and might not be the most practical choice in every scenario.

FAQ

  • Q: How long does water have to boil to become sterile?
    A:     1 Minute if you're below 6,562 ft (2,000m), 3 minutes if you're above 6,562f
  • Q: Does boiling water for 10 minutes sterilize it?
    A:  Yes, but you shouldn't have to boil it for longer than 3 minutes.
  • Q: Will boiling water for 30 minutes achieve sterilization?
    A: Yes, but this is excessive unless you are trying to distill water.
  • Q: What is the quickest way to sterilize water?
    A: In terms of speed, using properly rated filter is probably going to be the fastest, followed by boiling, with chemical treatments and distillation being the slowest.
  • Q: How long should I boil water in the microwave to sterilize it?
    A: The same boiling rule (1 minute below 6,562ft, 3 minutes above) applies to the microwave, however, this can be potentially dangerous. Microwaves can heat water to boiling temperature without appearing to boil. Leaving the water in the microwave for too long can cause it to become superheated and explode violently into steam. It is much safer, and more accurate to boil water by other means so you can safely observe how long the water is boiling.
  • Q: Does boiling water kill bacteria?
    A: Yes. Boiling water will kill bacteria, protozoa, and viruses.
  • Q: Does boiling water make it safe to drink?
    A: Potentially yes. Although boiling water will kill biological agents, it will not remove chemical contaminants or radiation. Boiling does not remove dissolved organic matter, the stuff that makes natural water sources like lakes and rivers appear amber or brown in color, and can make the taste seem different than cleaner water sources.

Final Thoughts

Anyway, don't just take our word for it — listen to the scientists. Here's a direct quote from an article titled “Water Disinfection for International and Wilderness Travelers” from the Oxford Journal of Clinical Infectious Diseases:

“Because enteric pathogens are killed within seconds by boiling water and are killed rapidly at temperatures >60°C [or >140°F], the traditional advice to boil water for 10 min to ensure potability is excessive. Because the time required to heat water from a temperature of 55°C [or 131°F] to a boil works toward disinfection, any water that is brought to a boil should be adequately disinfected. Boiling water for 1 min or keeping water covered and then allowing it to cool slowly after boiling can add an extra margin of safety. The boiling point decreases with increasing altitude, but this is not significant when compared with the time required to achieve thermal death at these temperatures.”

Boiling water purification bacteria virus pathogen 2

So, here's the bottom line: Water does not need to be boiled for a minimum of 5, 10, or 20 minutes in order to be considered safe to drink. By the time it reaches a rolling boil, it can be considered safe, regardless of your altitude. (Note: This assumes that no harmful chemicals or heavy metals, such as pesticides or lead, are present. To remove those contaminants, you'll need a water filter/purifier.) However, you may continue to boil for 1 to 3 additional minutes, or combine the methods discussed above for an extra margin of safety — if you've got a few minutes to spare, it won't hurt, but shouldn't be considered mandatory.

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