Which country would you move to in order to avoid brutal hardship? Surviving an apocalyptic scenario is a subject that has fascinated and terrified humanity for centuries. Whether it's the breakdown of society, war, killer AI robots, or any other dystopian scenario, people have always wondered where the best place to survive would be. Back in 2021, Insider published a list of the five best countries to survive an “apocalypse”, but are they really the best choices? Let's take a look at their reasoning.
Insider's Countries to Survive the Apocalypse
New Zealand: Known for its isolation and renewable energy sources, New Zealand tops the list. With 40% of its energy supply coming from renewable sources and 75% produced domestically, it seems like a safe haven.
Iceland: With an abundance of natural and renewable resources, Iceland's isolation and cooler climate make it a strong contender.
United Kingdom: Surprisingly, the UK's available farmland, temperate climate, and low risk of natural disasters place it on the list.
Australia: Its location, climate, and massive land make Australia a prime spot to ride out the apocalypse.
Ireland: With fertile soil, low population, and lower energy demand, Ireland rounds out the top five.
However, these choices may not be as ideal as they seem. In rebuttal to this list Andrew Henderson of NomadCapitalist.com draws on his experience helping others move around the globe to explain why you should reconsider. If you're not from these countries, moving there could be difficult. Ireland might be the easiest to move to, but the UK, Australia, and New Zealand are expensive and challenging for immigration. Iceland isn't very open to immigration either. So, where should you go instead?
Nomad Capitalist's Countries to Survive the Apocalypse
Latin America: Countries like Mexico, Guatemala, Costa Rica, Panama, and Ecuador offer relatively straightforward residence options. Ecuador, with its cheap agricultural land and tax-friendly policies, could be an interesting choice.
Europe: Ireland still stands out, but Malta and Cyprus could be potential options. Switzerland's history and stability make it appealing, but it's expensive and centrally located on the European land mass.
Asia: Malaysia, with its foreigner-friendly land ownership and nice people, could be a place to consider.
Africa and the Pacific: Mauritius in Africa and Vanuatu in the Pacific offer residence for real estate buyers and are also tax-friendly.
While the top five countries listed by Insider may seem appealing at first glance, and for legitimate reasons, they might not be the best choices for everyone. Considering alternative options and understanding each countries immigration process is essential. Whether it's Latin America's affordability, Europe's stability, Asia's friendliness, or the unique offerings of Africa and the Pacific, the best place to survive the apocalypse may be more personal and nuanced than a simple list can capture. Watch Andrew's video below for a deeper dive, and hopefully a better understanding. Who knows, the best place to survive the apocalypse might be exactly where you're at right now.
What do nails, woodpecker lips, and wild west hombres have in common? They’re all tough. Which is exactly the quality you want from the special rifle you’ve designated to defend your family, home, and resources in the case of a severe, violent crisis. This doesn’t have to be the lawless wasteland portrayed by Hollywood. During the widespread civil unrest of 2020, there were plenty of places in the American heartland—places that didn’t even lose cell service or electricity—that remained functionally lawless for weeks at a time. Police chiefs told their officers not to respond to certain calls or enter certain neighborhoods. Mayors and city council members gave speeches about giving people “room to riot”. While the likelihood of needing to use a firearm in anger during a disaster is very low, it’s not zero. If you do find yourself face-to-face with that statistical anomaly, you’re going to want a rifle, maybe even a bugout carbine, that’s tough.
But what exactly does that mean? We’re not talking about accurate and reliable. We’re not talking about “runs fine, even if it’s a little dirty”. Webster’s Online defines tough, among other things, as: capable of enduring strain, hardship, or severe labor, characterized by severity or uncompromising determination. Some of this language is surely intangible and subjective. So how do we translate that into assessing a mechanical device? If you spend enough time on social media, someone will try and convince you that a rifle is tough by burying it in a shallow grave, dragging it behind their truck for 100 yards, or dropping it off the roof of their house onto concrete. While these types of “tests” (we use the term loosely) might make for good entertainment, they give you no empirical information about the weapon’s ability to endure hardship over time.
We tried our best to take a more analytical approach. Instead of resorting to gimmicky torture tests, we took a hard look at the individual stages of the AR’s operating cycle and identified as many mechanical failure points as possible. From there, we scoured the aftermarket to find products that would mitigate, reduce, or eliminate the potential for failure at that point. We’re not sure if the resulting upper receiver group is the most accurate, flattest shooting, or will run the most number of rounds before failing. What we can say with some confidence is that every phase of the operating cycle has been mechanically or structurally reinforced to endure environmental and operating conditions well above average.
NOTES
This article will be specific to the AR-15, as it’s one of the most ubiquitous rifles in America, both in terms of sales volume and cultural recognition. They are accurate, reliable, inexpensive, with a wide selection of ammunition and plentiful supply of spare parts. This dearth of replacement and aftermarket components is, in part, what has made this story possible. The amount of research, over-engineering, and sweat equity some of these companies have invested into making the strongest and most durable version of their individual products is commendable, and we’re happy to unite them all in this franken-build exercise. We also want to address the possibility of piston-driven AR’s. There’s absolutely nothing wrong with them. In fact, we’re big fans of several well-known piston rifles out there.
While they do introduce less fouling into the receiver, we disagree with the notion that they “run cleaner”. Instead, we’d argue they simply deposit their fouling elsewhere in the operating system. Furthermore, because there are no dimensional standards for AR pistons, adopting one will inevitably introduce proprietary parts into your rifle which will be inherently harder to come by if replacement is ever needed. While this is by no means meant to condemn them from preparedness applications, it’s food for thought. Since the direct impingement system is more prolific, and more financially accessible to a larger number of consumers, we focused on that. Some of the aftermarket upgrades seen here are not inexpensive. However, these upgrades can be made piecemeal to distribute the financial burden, or even cherry picked from this list based on your preferences and perceived needs. We also focused entirely on the upper receiver group because this is where the “work” takes place, meaning its where all of the carbon fouling and mechanical parts wear takes place.
RECEIVER
Our build started with VLTOR’s new MLOK VIS Lightweight MLOK Polylithic Upper receiver. These uppers have been out in KeyMod for some time, and now the line is being expanded to include MLOK versions in 10-, 12-, and 15-inch handguard lengths. Our sample upper is a pre-production prototype, but VLTOR says they expect them to hit market between 3rd and 4th quarter of 2023. The VIS Polylithic system is composed of an upper receiver and handguard which are manufactured separately before being mounted into fixtures and welded together to create a single unit. In order to make this work, the upper receiver is forged from 6013 aluminum instead of VLTOR’s normal 7075. The handguard is extruded from 6061, both hardened to T6 specifications. Ours also came with VLTOR’s new titanium graphite ejection port door. The VIS Polylithic features a unique port door in the bottom of the handguard at the receiver end. This is how the barrel nut is secured to the receiver with a special one-time-use barrel nut intended to be consumed in the installation process.
GAS SYSTEM
It’s been said that the heart of a rifle is its barrel. For this build, we chose a unique barrel offering from HM Defense. This barrel is incredibly unique in that the gas block is integrally machined into the barrel itself. Instead of fitting a collared gas block over the port, HM’s Monobloc barrel cuts the block directly into the barrel blank, eliminating any possibility for mis-alignment, slipping, leakage, or corrosion at the gas block. These 4150CMV barrels are button-rifled, triple-honed, chrome-lined, phosphate finished and listed as match grade by the manufacturer. They are chambered in 5.56mm NATO with a 1:8 twist rate. There are several lengths available, but our test barrel is of the 12.5-inch variety and features a mid-length gas system. Historically, 12.5 barrels with true mid-length gas systems can be a little finicky in terms of reliability, sometimes require particular gas system tuning or limitations on compatible ammo for consistent cycling. HM Defense claims the integrated gas block increases reliability by maximizing gas flow directly into the gas tube, thus eliminating the reliability problem sometimes found in this barrel configuration.
Speaking of gas tubes, we installed a V Seven Weapon Systems’ Extreme Environments Gas Tube into the monobloc. This tube is made from heat treated Inconel with a black DLC finish. Inconel is the same material often used for suppressor baffles because of its incredibly high resistance to high-temperature thermal cycling. Its ability to withstand repeated exposure to incredibly high temperatures without melting or becoming brittle makes it an ideal choice for parts that regularly come into direct contact with the super-heated expanding gasses caused by firing a weapon.
BOLT CARRIER GROUP
In researching optimized, enhanced, or reinforced bolt carrier groups, we came across a surprisingly wide array of options, each one purporting to address a specific weak point in the bolt or carrier. While we were not able to sample them all, we did get our hands on a couple of options for your consideration.
HM Defense makes more than Monobloc barrels. One of their other products is the HMB Bolt. This bolt is specifically designed to counter one of the better-known issues with the AR-15 bolt: cam pin hole shearing. Traditional AR bolt designs feature a cam pin hole that goes all the way through the bolt itself. Because of the size of the cam pin, this leaves relatively thin walls on either side of the cam pin hole. Sometimes these walls can snap, literally breaking your bolt in half and dead-lining your gun until you can find a replacement. The HMB bolt uses a proprietary bolt and cam pin design that leaves one side of the bolt completely intact to add extra structural strength. The bolt is 9310 steel while the cam pin is hardened 4340 steel. Both parts are black nitride finished.
Another option is the Sharps Rifle Company Relia-Bolt and Xtreme Performance BCG. The Relia-Bolt is made of heat-treated S7 tool steel, which Sharps describes as having higher tensile strength and resistance to softening at temperatures up to 1,000 degrees. The Relia-Bolt also features a unique tapered and rounded lug design meant to reduce the possibility of a malfunction caused by improper locking or unlocking of the bolt when the barrel extension becomes heavily fouled or impeded by debris. The front edges of the locking lugs are re-shaped to increase performance under harsh conditions, while the rear lug faces remain fully squared to achieve full lock-up when the bolt goes into battery. The Relia-Bolt can be purchased on its own, as part of the Sharps Xtreme Performance BCG. These sets include a “balanced bolt carrier” that is also made of heat-treated S7, with conservative lightening cuts on the back of the carrier. There are multiple finish options including black DLC, NiB-X, and FDE Zirconium Nitride. There is also a low-mass carrier available, in addition to BCGs features the Sharps Adjustable Gas Recoil System which includes a set screw in the back of the gas key to moderate gas flow into the carrier, allowing you to adjust gas flow based for suppressed use.
Finally, we have a bolt carrier from Walker Defense Research. This carrier is made from 8620 tool steel and finished in FDE DLC coating. The Walker carrier comes with Optimized Carrier Key Screws designed by Ned Christiansen. These screws have a beveled top edge that also has a shallow serration pattern cut into it so that, when staking the gas key screws, the staked material has an increased surface area to bite into. While sub-par factory AR’s have been known to have shallow staking, or skip it entirely, the Christiansen OCKS keys essentially lock themselves in. While we sourced our Sample OCKS from Forward Control Designs, and had the team at Walker Defense Research install them on our carrier—along with a Sharps Relia-Bolt—Drew Walker, the owner of WDR, was so impressed with the OCKS design that by the time you read this they will be standard on all Walker Defense BCGs. We love to see the owner of a company embrace innovation and include other small businesses in ways that make their own products even better.
ACCESSORIES
Finally, it came time to finish and accessorize our upper. We paired our BCG with a Gesissele Automatics Airborne charging handle. Geissele parts are well-known for their widespread adoption across the DoD, in particular within elements of Special Operations Command. If that isn’t a testament to their ability to endure prolonged hard use, we’re not sure what is. These handles are machined from a solid block of 7075-T6 aircraft aluminum, Type 3 hard coat anodized and feature a raised lip on the rear to mitigate gas blowback during suppressed use. The Airborne features lower-profile levers to reduce the amount of snagging on chest-mounted gear.
We also went back to Walker Defense Research NILE grip panels. The Non-slip InLaid Element panels snap directly into MLOK rail slots to enhance grip and insulate your hands from heat build-up. They are inexpensive, simple, lightweight, and durable. They offer a greatly-enhanced grip surface with no perceptible added weight.
We tipped the Monobloc barrel with a DeadAir KeyMicro flash hider. The KeyMicro mount is a smaller version of their ubiquitous KeyMo mounting system, and the KeyMo HUB mounts we have on hand are all compatible with KeyMicro muzzle devices. Their flash hider is compact and heavily built, with a rugged and widely available mounting interface for suppressors.
Finally, we added a pair of Vortex optics on an American Defense Manufacturing mount. Specifically, we used a Razor Gen II 1-6x paired with their SPARC Solar red dot, in an ADM Delta-C mount. Like the Geissele charging handles, Razor LPVOs have found an unlikely home with US Army Special Operations Command. The Delta-C mount places the scope at a 1.5-inch height-over-bore and their newly released line of direct-mount top rings, places the piggy-backed red dot at approximately 3 inches over bore.
Vertircal grips and hand stops are an intensely personal choice, but we strongly prefer short vertical grips on rifles for the added control we get, as well as for ideally positioning our thumbs over the top of the bore to actuate light control buttons for lights and lasers – which can be found on nearly all of our personal setups. In this case, we experimented with two: first we tried a Stubby MLOK Vertical Grip from Onyx Arms. This grip appears to be inspired by the old Knights Armament “broom handle” vertical grip – the first well-known example of this type of grip in military use. They were, in fact, standard issue as part of the original SOPMOD accessory package handed out to Special Operators to customize their new (at the time) modular quad-rail handguards. These grips are especially useful on shorter guns where a full traditional “palm grip” on along the underside of the handguard is not permitted due to lack of space or may be uncomfortable when using railed fore ends. The Onyx Arm grip updates the older designs by doing away with the rail clamp in favor of a pair of MLOK T-nuts for today’s sleeker handguards. The polymer they use is dense and stiff enough to prevent perceivable flexing even when driving the gun hard across a field of dispersed targets. Then we tried the Unity Tactical VFG – a more modern aesthetic with an oblong shape, flared at the bottom and textured on the front and back edges. Both were comfortable and functioned well with the VLTOR polylithic receiver.
Speaking of lights, we added a Cloud Defensive REIN 3.0 weapon light to this build. The REIN has staked its claim as perhaps the toughest and brightest rifle light on the market, with the 3rd generation putting out 100,000 candella and 1250 lumens with a 95-minute run time. The 3.0 also introduces dual-fuel capability, running on either a single rechargeable 18650 battery, or a pair of CR123s. While the former will always provide peak output and runtime, the latter allows fast swapping in the field when charging stations or power outlets may not be available. The REIN’s heavy-duty switching setup features a pressure pad with separate buttons for momentary and constant-on activation as well as a clicky tailcap button which will operate completely independently of the remote switch. While the two are hard-wired together as a single unit, you can literally cut the wire to the remote switch without losing tail-cap activation. The bezel diameter is only 1.3 inches, meaning it will play will with lasers or IR illuminators and, at just over 6-inches long, it won’t take up a ton of real estate on the handguard. To that end, the REIN is specifically designed and tested to run with the head running alongside the muzzle device. Even if you have a multi-chamber brake with high gas output, the REIN will function just fine for the entirety of its service life. Just don’t forget to clean the lens as needed. The REIN is IPX8 rated for waterproofing and has been function tested to run even after 24 hours submerged in 100 feet of water. It also sports a front lens that’s 3mm thick and meant to withstand direct hits from force-on-force marking rounds, so there’s no need to cover or baby this light if you train hard with your carbine. If something does fail, Cloud’s lifetime warranty will cover just about any failure case you can think of.
ROUNDS DOWNRANGE
Of course, all of this leads us back to the question most of you have already asked yourselves while reading this: “Is all this really necessary?”
You will have to answer that question for yourself. Our goal here was not to give you an exact blueprint that needs to be replicated to have a worthwhile SHTF rifle, but to present a buffet of what’s available in terms of mechanical upgrades. The cost, in both money and man-hours, required to build this exact rifle is substantial and perhaps prohibitive for many. But maybe there are a couple of individual components here that pique your interest or that you deem worth the expense to augment an AR you’ve already got in your safe. As always, the existence of the OFFGRID brand is driven by the mission to provide you with the maximum amount of information to help you make the most educated decisions possible when budgeting for emergency gear.
Have you ever wondered how our ancestors survived in the harsh landscapes of the North American Southwest? How they utilized ancient hunting techniques and thrived using primitive tools and techniques? We recently stumbled upon a captivating video titled “Journey Back In Time: Ancient Ram Hunt” that takes us on a fascinating journey into the past, exploring the hunting techniques of the ancestral Puebloan culture.
You may recognize the video's host, Phillip Liebel, a contestant on the History Channel's Alone: The Beast, instructor at Primitive Wilderness Survival, and an expert in primitive technology. Phillip delves deep into the history of the ancestral Puebloans, a nomadic culture that thrived in the Southwest's arid climate. He discusses their lifestyle, their movement patterns, and their ingenious use of resources. But the truly exciting content is his exploration of the Puebloan's hunting tools and techniques.
Phillip also displays his replica ‘sand dune knife' and discusses the dynamics of an ‘atlatl', or spear-throwing lever, both items based on artifacts and rock art left behind by the Puebloans. He also crafts a dart from river cane, similar to the reeds used by the Puebloans. The highlight of the video is when he puts these tools to the test, successfully hunting a ram using the self-made atlatl and dart.
This video is a testament to the ingenuity and resilience of our ancestors, and it's a thrilling watch for anyone interested in history, survival techniques, or hunting. We've embedded the video below for you to enjoy.
After watching, we'd love to hear your thoughts. What did you find most fascinating about the ancestral Puebloan culture? Have you ever tried replicating primitive tools or techniques? Share your experiences in the comments section below!
Don't forget to share this post with your friends and followers. Let's take them on this exciting journey back in time!
Whether it's a 1969 Camaro, a Led Zeppelin album, or a nice bottle of whiskey, some things don't lose their appeal with age. The lever action rifle also falls into this category — it's been around for well over 100 years with only minor changes, and has remained popular. As a testament to this fact, Rossi has announced the expansion of its lever gun lineup with a new model, the Rossi R95. It's chambered in the popular .30-30 Winchester caliber and available in 16.5 and 20-inch models.
Rossi R95 Specs and Features
Each variant of the new Rossi R95 includes hardwood walnut finished furniture, a cushioned rubber recoil pad, and adjustable iron sights. However, if your tastes are a bit more modern, it's compatible with commonly-available aftermarket rails and handguards designed for “another major manufacturer’s lever action” (we're guessing that means Marlin). The receiver is also drilled and tapped for optic mounts.
R95 barrels are hammer-forged, and metal components are finished in a black oxide coating. For those who aren't used to running lever guns in the traditional half-cocked position, there's a push-button safety at the rear of the receiver. Capacity of the tube magazine is 5 rounds plus one in the chamber. MSRP for the new Rossi R95 is $949.
For more information on the Rossi R95 lever action rifle, go to RossiUSA.com.
You want to be prepared for hardships, but also realize not everything is a cataclysmic event. There may be serious trouble on the horizon like a grid disruption or natural disaster, or your trouble could be something as simple as a vehicle breakdown. Contrary to many preparedness guides, not everything needs to be based on the fall of civilization. You may find you need to leave your residence based on unsafe human conditions like civil unrest or an ignored personal protection order. Fortunately, with a little forethought, you get to decide what action you’ll take. A tool people often opt for what is sometimes called a sustainment kit, emergency preparedness kit, or bug out bag. We use sustainment kits daily. Have you seen a mother with a diaper bag, a contractor with a lunch box, or a student with a backpack? These are all versions of a sustainment kit. Having a bag prepared for serious or emergent scenarios is a wise action to take before the trouble occurs.
Above: Emergency preparedness kits are highly customized, but some items like cordage and navigation tools are universal.
Types of Go Bags
There are many names associated with this type of preparedness kit. The Bug Out Bag (BOB), Go Bag, or if you want to take the excitement and anxiety level down a few notches, a Departure Kit, are a few of them. Putting one together is most easily distilled down for one reason: there may come a time when it's no longer safe to stay at your residence and you must leave. This doesn't have to be a forever scenario, however that's how the situation is often envisioned. The BOB will spend most of its time at your residence and will likely be larger than a day pack. Depending on the scenario your BOB will have food, water, and the appropriate gear to keep you going for multiple days.
Above: A go bag is packed according the anticipated duration of needing to be gone and away from reliable resources.
Alternatively, you may have an incident that requires you to walk home from your current location with only what you have available. This is what the Get Home Bag (GHB) is for. The GHB is a short-term sustainment kit and is the more succinct of the types of bags mentioned earlier. The nature of the GHB limits the size of the bag you’ll need and the equipment that you’ll likely have in it. Having the purpose clearly defined is what makes this bag such an attractive and accepted option. In contrast to the Bug Out Bag, they're usually lightweight, don't look out of place while walking a trail or in a shopping center, and only have the essentials for about 24 hours in them. There may not be a sleeping bag or days of food. You're on your way home with the bare minimum, but not empty-handed.
Planning Your Go Bag
Having an idea of where you’re heading, who is coming with you, and if you’re driving or walking will give you a more clear vision of what you need to include in these two different kits. Asking yourself these few simple questions will significantly cut down on hauling around unnecessary weight. To do this we want to have a plan ahead of time. P.A.C.E. is a useful acronym to use as a planning tool for packing a go bag that stands for Primary, Alternate, Contingency, and Emergency.
Primary: What is the main tool, gear or skill you are planning to use to solve a particular problem?
Alternate: Do you have a second method as a backup incase your primary method fails?
Contingency: If none of your tools or skills are functioning, how will you improvise or work around it?
Emergency: This is the last line of defense to keep you alive regardless of the situation.
Above: Where you are planning on going, and who you are going with makes a large impact on go bag contents. More people traveling together could mean fewer items to carry.
It’s important to have a plan, and to have predetermined backup plans if and when your primary plan fails. Often times, a Go Bag is a perfect place to see P.A.C.E. tossed completely to the wind since people like to skip Primary and jump straight to Emergency. An example of this is fire starting, and deciding to rely on a bow drill/friction fire as a primary ignition source. However, friction is one of the most difficult ways for the average person to start a fire. Bow drills are nostalgic and traditional, but even Jeremiah Johnson used flint and steel.
Who's Coming With You? Is this a solo venture or are you going to have your spouse and kids in tow? Unless you live alone, there is a high likelihood you’ll be leaving with a family or group. Considerations need to be made to accommodate emergency travel with babies, toddlers, and younger children. They’ll need formula, diapers, wipes, snacks, small toys, and extra changes of clothes. If you have kids old enough to carry a backpack to school you can have them carry essentials for themselves, even if it's only a small amount.
Above: What skills do you and your companions have that could affect the kind of gear you need pack?
Where Are You? Is the terrain flat like Chicago or is it full of hills like San Francisco? Are you in an urban or rural area? What is the average temperature for the next 30 days? Temperature, weather conditions, social surroundings, and the topography of your area are essential to consider for planning what to pack and what to wear.
Skills Drive Gear
Before we dive into what to equip your bags with, it’s important to understand what skills you possess. It is vital that you’re honest with yourself here. We need to know our capabilities, but more importantly we need to be aware of our limitations. Only bring items and tools with you that you're proficient in using. Not only will you cut down on unnecessary weight this way, but you'll also prevent possible injuries or mishaps. For example, if you’ve never learned how to use a compass other than to find a cardinal direction, betting on “figuring it out” is a recipe for disaster when you need to be confidently covering ground.
Above: If you have no firearms training, or haven't developed knife skills, don't expect to suddenly transform into John Wick during an emergency scenario. Seek training before relying on tools alone.
Honestly assessing your skillsets gives you the opportunity to improve your weaknesses before an emergency situation. For example, if land navigation is something you've never trained in, there are great classes out there to take. Once such class, offered by the Nature Reliance School with Tracey Tremble and Craig Caudill is top notch and will teach you a ton of useful navigation skills. No matter what skills need improving, there is a high probability of being able to find a reputable instructor that can help.
What's In The Bag
Now for the fun part of these kits: the gear. Finding new survival gadgets and cool-guy gear is exciting, and gives you a chance to test them out before they are needed in a real world scenario. Before you feverishly hit ‘submit order’ on hand-held radios, compasses, and ferro rods ask yourself WIN, another useful planning acronym for “what’s important now?” There are four pillars to survival and they are food, water, shelter, and fire. Anything you add to your kit in addition to those should be based on the results of your initial planning.
Water: “But you can go three days without water.” That may be true when you're sedentary. What is not accounted for in that statement is that you’ll have to be physically active in most of these situations. It is also life threatening to eat if you're dehydrated. If you're not able to urinate every 90 minutes or so, it's time to get water in you. Staying hydrated helps you think more clearly, keeps your muscles from cramping, fights fatigue, and reduces irritability and dizziness.Above: There are many ways to purify water for drinking, including filters, chemicals, and old fashioned boiling.
Sanitation and hygiene are both important when collecting water. No matter if you’re getting it from a pond, lake, stream, or the sky itself, sanitizing the water is important. Even when water looks clean and clear there can be dangerous bacteria, parasites, or viruses that can lead to waterborne diseases. Steven Rinella from The Meat Eater once recounted one of his experiences with beaver fever, also known as Giardiasis, a parasite commonly found in contaminated water. Symptoms of Giardiasis are excessive gas, stomach cramps, dehydration, and nausea. Most of all was the symptom Steve described as “uncontrollable pants messing.” We avoid severe diarrhea at the best of times. Be especially careful when there's limited toilet paper around.
Above: Filter systems are a convenient way to obtain potable water from questionable sources.
Filtration systems are amazing today. My bug out bag has a Sawyer hand pump filter that will clean 500 gallons before changing out the filters, but could be a bit too large for a get home bag. For smaller packs, a better option may be a LifeStraw. They’re compact, lightweight, and some models will screw to a water or pop bottle. Add a sillcock key to each of your bags if it applies to your area. These are used on the outside of public buildings, where there is a water spigot, but there's no hand valve to turn it on. If you use one of these, make sure you let the water run for a while. Water typically sits in those pipes for quite some time without circulation and you may end up filling up your water bottle with dirty, stinky water if you're not careful. Iodine tablets work well, but they usually need about 30 mins to take effect, the taste is terrible, and prolonged use can be tough on your stomach. Read the instructions on the bottle and give the tablets a try at home before relying on them in the field. The taste of purification tablets may motivate you to get a filter system of some type.
Above: When purifying water, try to choose a water source that appears to be the least contaminated.
Food: Food is important for nutrients, carbohydrates, proteins and fats. You can go longer without food than you can go without water, however, there are some important things to keep in mind. Emotional control is the first thing to go when we're hungry. That's why those Snickers commercials are funny. We can relate to the feeling. This can be dangerous under stress where the ability to make good decisions is important. Once you burn up all the stored glycogen or carbohydrates in your blood, you'll have a compromised state of mind, lose strength, and have decreased endurance.With this in mind, when it comes to packing food, lighter is better. Cans are heavy and you're not getting a lot of bang for your buck with most canned food. Dehydrated and freeze-dried foods are great options.
Above: Dehydrated, or freeze dried food is a space saver and come with enough calories to keep you going for a while.
There are several companies selling freeze-dried food that are great for either your bug out bag or get home bag. Don’t discount the value of a case of Meals Ready to Eat (aka, MRE). They do require additional water to be warmed up, but if possible you’ll probably want to heat them as they tend to taste better warm than cold. You’ll want to strip them down to the essentials before they go into either of your kits as there is a lot of extra plastic bulk associated with a single MRE. It's never been cheaper to buy a food dehydrator or even your own freeze dryer if you're into that ‘Prepping 2.0’ life. You may even want to take a page out of Mike Jones’ (Garand Thumb) playbook. Mike goes with a jar of peanut butter, a pack of tortillas, and some green vegetable powder. You can go a long way on the calories, salt, and oil in this simple meal. Offgrid contributor Ed Calderon has his own inexpensive survival food recipe: peanut butter, honey, granola, and instant coffee granules. Pour everything into a Ziploc bag, mix thoroughly, and eat gradually throughout the day.
Above: MRE's have been used by the military for several decades and come in many varieties. Pro Tip: Mix the cheese with the chili mac!
Fire:Fire is important for so many reasons. You use it to get warm, cook your meals, sanitize your water, help you see around camp, and keep away animals and pesky bugs. Fire also does a lot for the well-being of your mental state. My PACE plan for fire is a BIC lighter, ferro rod with prepared fire plug tinder, bow drill, and finally my “I need fire right away!” Pull Start Fire Starter.
Recalling that skills drive gear, not only is it critical to know how to start a fire, but it’s equally important to know how to maintain one. This may be a little challenging to work on if you're in an urban area. Consider going to a place with a community charcoal grill to practice this skill, or even better, plan a camping trip at a campground. The consequence of failure is low and you'll have all the time you need to work on it. Odds are there will be plenty of people around who would love to help you too.
Above: Sparks from a ferro rod will are hot enough to ignite dry tinder.
Shelter:What you’ll require for shelter is going to depend on what season you are in. Regardless of high or low temperatures you’ll need a shelter to keep the elements at bay. When you sit to take a break or lay down to sleep for a few hours, insulating yourself from the ground to prevent thermal conductivity can be vital. Pairing a sleeping pad, a good synthetic-filled sleeping bag, and a wind and waterproof bivy for your go bag are all factors to take into consideration. A mylar bivy or blanket might be the best options for a smaller packs or get home bags.
Above: Shelter can be improvised, but having a tarp or small tent will make life easier.
Medical: There are med kits and there are trauma kits and the distinction is important. Medical kits are for headaches, stomach aches, cuts, and abrasions. Trauma kits are for treating emergency wounds like massive hemorrhaging, compound fractures, and puncture wounds. Do not minimize the importance of the med kit. It might be that a bottle of Imodium is what saves your life from protracted dehydration. A trauma kit is used for what is able to kill you in minutes. You’ll want to stage your IFAK (individual first aid kit) on the outside of your bag or even looped on a belt if possible.
Above: When packing a med kit, only bring what you are comfortable using.
Premade med and trauma kits are easy to come by these days. Make sure you look at the inventory list and add what you’ll need. I buy pre-packaged trauma kits from Dark Angel Medical. I like to add at least one extra tourniquet, hemostatic gauze, and a couple extra sets of exam gloves rolled up into my prepackaged kits. Make sure your tourniquets are being sourced from a reputable source like North American Rescue. Sometimes the cheaply made knock-offs fail on the first application. Find a trauma med class to get in and learn how everything works. You don't want an emergency to be the first time using a life saving device like a tourniquet or chest seal.
Hygiene: More than 800,000 people die each year worldwide due to inadequate sanitation of water and bad hygiene. Toss a small bottle of hand sanitizer in each pocket of your pack and maybe a bar of soap or two in Ziploc bags. Wet wipes are great, but they take up a fair amount of space. There are also several companies that make a dry compressed tablet-like product you can use the same way as wet wipes. Add a bottle cap full of water to it and it opens up. Prevent getting sick by washing your hands before you eat, and sanitizing your cooking and water carrying vessels. Dental hygiene is also important, and everyone should have a toothbrush, toothpaste and dental floss in their kits.Above: Even water that looks clear can be contaminated. Be very careful when practicing field hygiene.
Cutting Tools: Carrying a pocket knife is a great start, but you cannot beat a good fixed blade knife. There are many schools of thought on this, but it is good to keep it simple. Most of the time you will need a sharp knife, not necessarily a huge knife. Ideally, fixed blades need to be easily maintained and be able to produce sparks for fire when using a ferro rod. I’ve had great luck with small knife making companies like Bradshaw Knives and Corvus Knife and Tool. If you’d rather get something a little cheaper but still capable, Mora makes a respectable blade. Neck knife, belt knife, or backpack knife, they style doesn't matter as long as it's easy to access and keeps the knife secure.Above: The Carrion from Corvus KT is a handy fixed blade knife for everyday tasks.
A pocket knife is used for lighter tasks than your fixed blade. Something with a thin spine and straight blade that's roughly 3 inches long can serve many needs, although you may have to look into your local regulations to determine what blade length is legal to carry. One daily carry to consider is a MicroTech UltraTech which will get the blade out quick; however, the Benchmade BugOut is a great option if you’re unable to carry an automatic knife.
Silky folding saws are a great tool when hunting or camping. They're efficient, lightweight cutters. If space and weight are at a premium, or cutting firewood is not your highest priority, check out the Lester River Bushcraft Folding Saw. They've got a minimalist saw that utilizes a reciprocating saw blade. The blades have the ability to cut metal or wood and are extremely tough. They can make short work of nails and those hard to reach screws without wearing out.
Above: Processing firewood for cooking and warmth is made much easier with a saw.
Remember, these are tools for backpacks where space and weight are at a premium. The more uses each item has the less you'll need to improvise. You may find you’re better off with a multitool instead of a pocket knife. While specialized cutting tools are nice, their extra weight can add up fast and slow you down.
Shore Things Up: Eventually the time will come when you need to tie down a tarp tent, carry useful items you find along the way, or attach something to your pack. Things like paracord or 550 cord, zip ties, carabiners, S hooks, and tubular nylon can be used for securing items or making a temporary shelter, hoisting, dragging, and lifting.Above: Having a bit of rope is a game changer, opening the doors to everything from fishing to furniture.
Door Opener: A lock pick set can come in very handy in life-and-death situations. Sometimes you don't have a key to something you need to gain access to without damaging the lock. They can be used to open cabinets, lockers, file cabinets, doors and drawers, granting access to things like medicine, food, or other supplies. Always use these tools responsibly, and be prepared to explain your actions to authorities after an incident and pay for anything you had to use.
Above: Need something from that medicine cabinet, or shelter from the snow, but a lock bars your way? There are tools to help overcome that obstacle.
Clothing: Your go bag might have a full change of clothing for an additional layer of warmth or something more light weight to keep you cool. The smaller get home bag should have a change of socks and underwear. Clean socks and underwear can do a lot for your physical and mental health.
Above: Nothing beats a clean pair of socks, and changing them frequently will prevent common foot injuries.
Batteries: It seems like everything we use today takes batteries. Thyrm makes a great product called the Cell Vault to keep your batteries safe, dry, and organized. If you can find rechargeable batteries for your gear you’ll have an easier time keeping things running if you can pair them with a small solar charger.
Above: With today's prolific technology, keeping devices powered can be a necessity.
Lights: I’ve got it on good authority that at some point today it's going to get dark. Never leave home without a pocket flashlight. Light gives us information when it's dark, and information allows us to make informed decisions. Something tough and dependable, like the Streamlight ProTac 2L-X is a solid choice, and runs on a rechargeable 18650 battery.
Above: Illumination can ward off predators and keep you safe from injuries in the dark.
Radios & Communication:You need to be able to communicate in the event cell towers go down or are jammed due to extreme use during emergencies. The Baofeng UV-5R is probably the easiest and least expensive way to get into handheld radios. Yes, you do need to take a test to get a HAM license, but the entry level licenses are relatively easy. General Mobile Radio Service (GMRS) licenses are another great option and there is no test. Simply fork over the dough to Uncle Sam for the license and be good to go. Keep in mind these radios are not as intuitive as your smartphone, and take a little effort to learn on your part.
Above: Communicating for help can save lives, and being able to talk to loved ones provides peace of mind.
Cash:Having an assortment of cash on hand can be a game changer. If a credit card machine was down, or your card gets lost or damaged, or the power goes out and kiosks aren't working, having cash on hand will allow you to barter, or make a purchase to get you out of a jam. Having $100-$200 stashed in a get home bag or go bag will take care of most emergencies. Another good idea is to slide a spare $20 in your phone case.
Final Thoughts
When you get the urge to lace up your boots and grab your pack, perform a quick gear check, and inspect the inventory to make any adjustments for seasonal or weather changes. Maybe it's the addition or subtraction of a wool hat, a parka, or a sleeping bag. The most important aspect is figuring out What’s Important Now (WIN). At a bare minimum you need a tool to cut with, cover to protect yourself from the elements, cordage to tie things down, and something to hold food and water in. This may helped you narrow down your choices for what goes in a bug out bag or a get home bag. Don't pack anything in the kits that you haven't used or tested on your own. Testing gear can take place in the woods behind your house, a living room or patio, in class settings under the watchful eye of a mentor, and even throughout daily life. You don't need to head to the mountains to know whether your sleeping bag sucks or not. It's much more preferable to spend a few uncomfortable or hungry nights near home now than than to discover your go bag set up doesn't work during an emergency.
Remember to WIN and PACE yourself. Add in a healthy dose of critical thinking and you’ll go far.
About the Author
Matt Williams is the lead instructor and owner of Foundation Defense, a Michigan based firearms training school. As an avid student of all things, you might see Matt attending a class in your area.
What would you do if you were forced to face off against an aggressive stranger bent on attacking you with a knife? Depending on your level of experience, that terrifying scenario could induce one of the three most common reactions to a life threatening situation: fight, flight or freeze. Locking up with fear is clearly the worst reaction. Not being in that situation to begin with is ultimately the best option, with getting away as fast as possible a close second. But if you had no choice but to fight, is there a way to do so without getting sliced to ribbons? Tiga Tactics, a self-defense and consulting company with over 60 years of combined martial arts experience has several effective answers to knife defense, and we attended their Knife Defense Seminar in San Francisco to learn more.
Above: Instructors Dr. Conrad Bui and Patrick Vuong demonstrate knife defense techniques.
Day One: The Learning Begins
Our adventure into the world of knife defense kicked off with some easy to learn fighting stances and simple strikes. We jumped headfirst into the basics, the nitty-gritty details that form the groundwork of practical self-defense techniques that could be your lifeline in sticky situations. These techniques were derived after studying over a thousand hours of real-world knife attacks and picking out the most common patterns that emerged. In the murky world of street fights, even through the chaos and adrenaline, they often encompass four primal types of attacks: knife attacks, hooks, bludgeoning weapons, or even firearms. Recognizing these is like acquiring a secret decoder to untangle the mess in real-time. When it comes to knife attacks, the two most common movements the aggressors make are the underhand thrust, also known as the “sewing machine,” and the overhand swing, fondly known as the “psycho stab.”
Above: Assistant instructor Sherman Chin demonstrates how to break free from a simulated aggressor trying to halt his offensive strike.
Since the focus of the seminar is on knife attacks, we quickly learn some of the most efficient defensive and offensive physical reactions to this type of assault.
Hand stance: It all begins with the hand stance. Imagine something is being thrown at your head, your first reaction will most likely be to cover your face to prevent your eyes, nose and ears from being damaged. This is a natural instinct ingrained into all of us to protect our biological sensory inputs. We can also use this initial reaction to get ourselves in an optimized position to both defend and counter attack an aggressor. Hands held high, not to cower in fear, but to set up a defensive fortress close to your head. This isn't just defense—it's a poised tiger, ready to strike when the moment demands.
Above: One-by-one, each seminar attendee faces off against everyone in their group, pushing their newly learned skills to the limit.
Strikes: We then switched gears, throwing ourselves into the whirlwind of strikes. Our repertoire expanded with palm strikes, loose-fingered finger washes that target our attackers eyes, precise elbow strikes—taking care not to overextend our reach, throwing off our balance—and powerhouse knee strikes. The heel of the palm is used instead of punching with a closed fist to prevent damage to your knuckles. When in the midst of a knife defense situation, the last thing you want is to be crippled with pain because your counter attack broke a finger or shattered a bone.
Above: The palm strike prevents broken hand bones and bruised knuckles.
Situational Awareness: The Secret Ingredient
Surviving a sudden showdown isn't just about how hard you can hit—it's often about your tiger-like situational awareness. Using environmental cues, such as a random car honk or a bing from your phone, you can pull up your mental drawbridge, steady your breathing, and crank up your surroundings' observance. Often when potential assailants look for targets, they are looking for people who are clearly not paying attention to their surroundings. This could be someone who's head never leaves the screen of their phones, people who are lost in a podcast being played through ear buds, or even someone standing with bad posture. Simply standing up straight and giving the appearance that you are aware of your surroundings can be enough to stop a bad actor from selecting you as a target. Our instructors also made a point to remind us that this isn't just about feeding your inner paranoia. It's also about spotting the beautiful details life splashes around us.
Above: These days, people spend a lot of time looking at phones. This makes them ideal targets for potential assailants.
Mastering Knife Defense
Diving into the realm of knife attacks, remember: most folks with a knife are scared, confused, often with little to zero training. Even though they are the ones with the intent to harm another with a blade, their biological systems are probably surging with catecholamines like adrenaline, making it hard to think rationally. This is why they resort to one of the two easiest to carry out attack motions, the sewing machine, or the psycho stab. To effectively defend against these moves we are taught the secret sauce acronym, PRO (Protect. Reposition. Offense).
Protection: Safety first. Before you can launch into your own counter attack, you need to make sure that the sharp end of a knife isn't free to harm you. To do this, we practice an easy to learn blocking technique that once again, draws on your natural instinct to shield yourself. Imagine what your first physical reaction would be if someone with a knife is coming at you, and they swing. Chances are likely you will try to block the swing with your closest forearm. But you can take this a step further by using your second arm to create an “X” shape, temporarily trapping your assailants knife wielding hand in the top of the “X”.
Above: The X-block is a quick and effective way to halt an initial knife stab.
From here it becomes a matter of locking the blade of the knife into a safe position by grabbing the wrist of the wielder and holding it in such a way that they have a difficult time getting loose. Mastering the X-block technique, we learned to neutralize both high and low knife thrusts.
Reposition: After the knife is in a position that will prevent you from getting severely cut, you'll need to move your own body into a place where you can strike your opponent. Ensuring there is no space between you and the attacker will prevent them from breaking loose or using a gap to strike through your defense. Secure the wrist, straighten those elbows, and keep the attacker beneath your center of gravity. If this procedure sounds intense, you are correct. Even practicing in a safe environment, it was shocking to experience first hand how quickly a situation can escalate.
Above: By holding on tightly to the wrist, the knife cannot reach it's intended target.
Offense: Only after seizing control, did we switch into offense mode. Using the strikes from earlier, we attacked in a way meant to disable the attacker long enough to get away, or destroy their intent to harm.
Above: Once the blade is secure, more energy can be spend on offensive strikes.
Day Two: From Defense to Offense
Having traversed the wild landscape of self-defense on day one, we were ready to delve deeper into the realm of knife defense and offense on day two. For the purposes of the Knife Defense Seminar, it means knowing how to deploy your own EDC knife to defend yourself from an aggravated assault.
Like detectives at a crime scene, we started with forensically analyzing videos of real-world attacks. Watching the videos left most of us unnerved, since the attackers seemed mentally ill and random, and it was easy to empathize with the plight of the victims. However, there was a silver lining. Each of the attackers had an obvious tell that would have given them away to the situationally aware observer. The hands, and the demeanor of the attackers in the videos leaked clues of an impending attack. This learning point was used as a segue to drive home how important mindset is, not just in self-defense, but as an everyday habit.
Above: People who attack with a knife typically use a few common methods, such as the overhand “psycho stab” demonstrated here.
Staying alert, using those environmental cues as reminders to calm your breathing and look around, has to be something practiced and developed. Not being a victim, or selected as a target, can be partially influenced by the choices we make. Hopefully, increasing this situational awareness gives you the upper hand when you do have to defend yourself, or go on the offensive. For those situations where a defender is not free to escape, such as when they find themselves in in a building or enclosed space, we bolstered our mental toolkit with the Four E's – Entry, Enemies, Escape, and Extinguishers.
Entry: Be aware of entry points, and the demeanor of those who pass through them.
Enemies: Keep a closer eye on people nearby who exhibit unstable mannerisms, who seem out of place, or clearly look like they are up to no good. Listen to your instincts.
Escape: Just as important as entry points, is to be aware of potential escape routes. This could be windows or utility doors. Avoid placing yourself in positions where you are boxed in to an unescapable corner.
Extinguishers: If the worst case scenario happens, being aware of where the fire extinguishers are can give you a surprising advantage. Extinguishers can be sprayed to obscure an attackers vision, or even used as a bludgeon.
Above: When entering a building or vehicle, try not to place yourself in a location with no escape routes.
The Knife Defense Exam
Then came the crescendo—a gripping knife defense exam. We broke into two groups and launched into a mock battle, defending against each group member's knife attacks. Attacks were randomly left to fellow attendees to decide, either the low, underhand sewing machine attack, or the high, overhand psycho stab. It was as close to a real knife attack as we could simulate—a terrifying, yet eye-opening experience. Each person in the seminar practiced the PRO concepts against at least 10 other attendees under the sharp eyes of our instructors, testing our reactions and physical endurance. By the end of this exercise, a little sore and fatigued, we realized that every knife defense situation is different, and the only way to truly be ready for one is to maintain awareness, and continue training for the scenario in the future.
Above: Trying to draw a knife while being attacked requires a cool head and the proper technique.
Afternoon Session: Knife Laws, Perception, and Carry Positions
Post-lunch, we moved into the complex maze of knife carrying laws. Whether or not we like to think about the legality of the situation, the truth of the matter is, if you have to defend yourself with or against a knife, you'll probably have to defend yourself in court. Following local knife laws could make or break the situation. Most places have laws regarding how you can carry a folding blade or fixed blade, how long your blade can be, and what style of blade you can carry. Being ignorant of these laws is not an excuse to disregard them, and can get you into trouble.
There was also the perception aspect of carrying a knife. Most people will have different emotional reactions depending on what style of blade they are looking at. For example, someone looking at the knife on a Leatherman Multi-Tool will react in a much different way to looking at a karambit. This emotional response will play a role in court. If you decide to carry a knife with a design that looks different from the generic “steak knife” look, be prepared to deal how people feel and potentially react to it.
Above: Regardless of their real-world functionality, knives with unique designs can be perceived by the general public as more deadly than others with traditional designs.
We navigated through different carry positions—in the pocket, waistband, pocket clip, dangle sheath, or on the ankle. Each carry method has pros and cons related to ease of accessibility, as well as concealability. Legal restrictions aside, there is no right or wrong way to carry a knife, as long as it is carried consistently. Getting used to where the knife is located and how to access it will make the motions second nature. Consistent practice is the key here—you don't want to fumble when the moment arrives. One technique is to practice drawing the knife once per day whenever the knife is worn for the first time.
Drawing and Using the Knife
Drawing the knife isn't just an act—it's an art. From the ‘Stealth Draw' that keeps your knife hidden like a ninja, to the ‘Combat Draw', where your non-dominant hand plays defense while you unsheath your knife, we learned to adjust to the situation at hand.
Above: How fast can you draw your knife? Facing off against another trying to do the same thing gives you an idea of how quickly a situation can escalate.
Stealth Draw: This is done by facing your opponent in such away that your blade is concealed the entire time you draw it. Motions are subtle. It should not be obvious to your aggressor that you are drawing a knife. The idea behind this is leveraging the element of surprise. If someone looks like they are intent on assaulting you, and all of a sudden a knife pops up out of nowhere, there is a strong chance they will change their mind.
Combat Draw: Using this technique is reserved for when the situation has already escalated into a full blown assault. You keep your attacker at bay with your non-dominant hand long enough to deploy your knife.
Above: Utilizing the Combat Draw will keep your attacker at bay while your own knife is being deployed.
In both situations, once the knife is deployed, you must make a choice as to how you will wield you blade. We discuss keeping movements simple. Hammer grip and diagonal slashes from shoulder to opposite hip, and combining with quick short thrusts, will effectively cut anything in front of you while minimizing the chances your knife will be knocked from your hand. These techniques should only be used long enough to convince your attacker that they made the wrong choice, or until you have a long enough window to escape.
Final Thoughts: Embrace Your Inner Warrior
Our two-day journey concluded with a profound revelation: you, yes, you are the weapon. The knife? That's just your sidekick, a tool that you can use as a force multiplier that increases your effectiveness as a weapon. With regular training, you ensure that the sidekick never upstages the hero—you.
Above: Training should be effective, intense and fun. Tiga Tactics checked all of these blocks at the Knife Defense Seminar in San Francisco.
Are you ready to take a stand? To defend your life, or someone else's, if the situation demands? Can you choose to live, no matter what? That's the question we left with—a question that continues to echo in our minds as we step confidently into the world, armed with the knowledge that could one day save our lives.
Light is an essential aspect of self defense and home defense. Many violent crimes occur under cover of darkness, and if you can't see what's in front of you, you won't be able to defend yourself against it effectively. This is why every defense-oriented firearm we own — rifle, shotgun, or pistol — is equipped with a weapon light. We've tested and reviewed countless different weapon lights over the years, but recently had an opportunity to get our hands on two variants of a new light design: the Valhalla Tactical Baldr SOL and the HRT Advanced Weapon Light System (AWLS). The two companies collaborated to produce a family of weapon lights with Valhalla's clever omni-directional activation switch. Read on for our review and impressions of the Baldr SOL and HRT AWLS.
HRT & Valhalla Tactical Collab
The photo above shows a HRT AWLS prototype we received for testing. Shortly after we received it, we also received Valhalla Tactical's final production version of the light design, known as the Valhalla Tactical Baldr SOL. Both lights are clearly based on the same architecture, and each offers a full-size 18650/2x CR123 version as well as a compact 18350/1x CR123 version. Both lights use the same Valhalla Tactical ODA tailcap with an innovative omni-directional activation switch. Much like a joystick on a video game controller, it can be pushed in any direction to activate the light in momentary mode, or clicked inward for constant-on mode. ODA sensitivity inserts are also included to fine-tune how much pressure is required to activate the light.
If you prefer a standard push-button tailcap, the “joystick” portion unscrews to reveal a rubber button that works like any traditional flashlight tailcap.
Both the HRT AWLS and Valhalla Tactical Baldr light bodies feature integrated MLOK mounts which allow the light to be installed directly onto most rifle, carbine, and shotgun handguards without a need for additional components. This solid aluminum, monolithic design is strong and simple, with only two mounting screws as opposed to four or more. Here's a photo that shows the AWLS installed directly on the handguard of a Primary Weapon Systems MK116 carbine alongside Walker Defense Research NILE grip panels and a BCM vertical grip:
After a close examination, the Valhalla Tactical and HRT tailcaps and bodies appear identical, aside from the laser-engraved logo near the mounting surface. The head is where the two lights begin to differ noticeably. Both heads use industry standard SureFire M600DF thread pattern, so they can be installed onto Dual Fuel SureFire light bodies.
In the photo above, the head on the left is Valhalla Tactical's version, known as the PDG DF Mod 1. It produces a maximum of 1,600 lumens and 58,000 candela. HRT's head, pictured on the right, is known as the PSF-Mk6. It produces 1,700 lumens and 90,000 candela.
For those who aren't up to speed on flashlight terminology, this means that the total light output of these heads is similar, but the beam pattern is quite different. The Valhalla head creates a softer and wider beam that's preferable for close to intermediate range, while the HRT head produces a focused spotlight pattern that's better-suited to long-distance engagements. The version you prefer will depend on the environment where you plan to use the light.
One more noticeable difference is that the HRT head's output color is rated at 5,500K, a neutral “daylight” white. The Valhalla/PDG head's output color is slightly cooler — we'd estimate it's about 6,500K. Both are within the color range we'd consider acceptable for weapon lights.
Testing the Baldr SOL & HRT AWLS
The 18650-size HRT AWLS fit nicely on our 16-inch PWS carbine, and seems well-suited to this application. Activating the light is as simple as reaching a thumb over the bore and pushing down on the ODA “joystick.” Constant activation is also easy to access with a quick press forward.
It's also worth noting that this light body is reversible, so you can swap the head and tailcap if you want to use the light on the left side of a weapon. Along with inverting the body on either side, this allows for four different mounting positions.
Granted, the HRT AWLS we have is a prototype, but we did notice a strange activation delay with this version of the light. When we press the switch, there's about a 1/2-second pause before the light turns on. This is not the case with the production-ready Valhalla Tactical Baldr SOL variant, which activates instantly as you'd expect. It's also not the case if we swap the Valhalla DF Mod 1 head onto the HRT body, so it appears to be isolated to the HRT PSF-Mk6 prototype head.
We can't say for sure if this issue carries over to the production HRT head, since we haven't used one yet.
As for the Valhalla Tactical Baldr SOL, we attached it to a Magpul forend on our custom Vang Comp Systems Remington 870 shotgun. Since this gun doesn't have much room for a remote tape switch, the all-in-one design is a great fit. The Valhalla head also creates a wide beam pattern that's suitable to close-range shotgun uses.
Above: The Valhalla Tactical Baldr SOL with ODA tailcap and DF Mod 1 head attached to a Magpul MOE 870 shotgun forend.
Final Thoughts
The HRT AWLS and its sibling the Valhalla Tactical Baldr SOL are refreshing additions to the list of weapon lights currently on the market. The ODA tailcap is one of our favorite new products to hit the market in recent years, winning Recoil's Best Accessory of SHOT Show award in 2022. We love that it offers all the functionality of a regular clicky tailcap with the added versatility of a removable, omni-directional joystick option. The light body, whether you choose HRT's or Valhalla's version, is sturdy and easy to install on any MLOK rail without a need for additional mounts or adapters.
As for the HRT PSF and Valhalla DF heads, each offers pros and cons for differing environments. The wider beam and lower candela of the Valhalla head offer better visibility in enclosed spaces, while the HRT's higher candela and better throw would be preferable for punching through obstructions such as car window tint or for use in outdoor engagements beyond 100 yards. The activation delay we noted with the HRT head is an annoyance, but that may be a prototype-exclusive issue.
Lastly, we should discuss pricing. A complete Valhalla Tactical light setup (head, body, and ODA tailcap) costs $190, while a complete HRT AWLS setup costs $295. This $105 price difference is hard to stomach, since (as far as we can tell from testing and hands-on examination) the only functional difference between the two lights is candela and color temperature. The tailcaps are identical, and the bodies are identical aside from the logo. But HRT's standalone head costs $200, only $9 less than a Modlite OKW or PLHV2. For this reason, the Valhalla variant seems more appealing unless high candela is absolutely mandatory for your application.
For more information on the HRT AWLS, go to HRTtacticalgear.com. For more information on the Valhalla Tactical Baldr SOL and ODA tailcap, go to Valhallatactical.com.
In the heart of a suspenseful escape incident in Pennsylvania, we are given a glimpse into the intricate world of survival, evasion, and difficulties law enforcement must overcome to catch a fugitive on the loose. Our guide is none other than recently interviewed Craig Caudill, the Director and Instructor at the Nature Reliance School in Kentucky, renowned for his expertise in wilderness and survival training. Amid the ongoing search for Michael Burham, an escaped inmate with some self-taught survival skills and military training, FOX news asked for Craig Caudill's insights. This interview unveils the harsh realities and complex dynamics of survival in the wilderness, as well as the strategies for evading capture, all drawn from this unfolding, real-life scenario. Watch Craig's interview, and read more about the situation below.
Above: The Allegheny National forest is vast, spanning a little over 800 square miles.
Background
The search for escaped inmate Michael C. Burham continues into its seventh day as of July 13th, 2023 in northwestern Pennsylvania. Burham is suspected of escaping by climbing on a pull-up exercise machine in the prison recreation yard, getting onto a roof, and sliding off the prison roof using a rope made of bedsheets which were tied together. He is wanted in connection with the fatal shooting of Kala Hodgkin, 34, and also accused of kidnapping an elderly couple, stealing their SUV, and fleeing to South Carolina.
Burham is described as a “self-taught survivalist with military training.” This includes 12 years as a Water Treatment Specialist (92W) and Utilities Equipment Repairer (91C) in the Army Reserve from February 2008 to December 2020. He had no deployments, and held the rank of Sergeant at the end of service. Col. George Bivens, deputy commissioner of operations for the Pennsylvania State Police, warns that Burham should be considered armed and dangerous.
The search for Burham has extended into the Allegheny National Forest, with authorities finding potential stockpiles and campsites believed to be connected to him. Rewards totaling $19,500 are offered for information leading to his capture. Multiple agencies are involved in the search, including the Pennsylvania State Police, U.S. Marshals Service, U.S. Forest Service, U.S. Border Patrol, and others.
Situation Analysis
Pennsylvania's Allegheny Forest, where the fugitive is presumed to be hiding, is a challenging environment. This mixed hardwood forest is a hotspot for insects and wildlife, presenting constant threats to safety and comfort. Craig explains that despite the forest having resources for survival, the rugged terrain, limited resources in some areas, and the need to evade law enforcement make this a daunting survival situation for the inmate.
Survival challenges that Burham faces are numerous, extending beyond evading law enforcement. Craig Caudill highlights that everybody, regardless of their situation, has core needs: safety, security, and maintaining a stable body temperature. These needs become more acute when trying to survive outdoors, where factors such as hydration and mental stress come into play. Craig points out the critical role of mindset in survival situations, and suggests that Burham's mental resilience and survival skills might be tested in the face of the physical, psychological, and environmental pressures he is dealing with.
Craig Caudill's insights go on to suggest that the constant mental strain of being hunted, dealing with harsh environmental factors, and possibly even encountering wildlife could be wearing Burham down. Without training and experience in handling stress in similar scenarios, the fugitive could find himself using up more of his energy reserves, both physically and mentally. This heightens his need for sustenance and water, simultaneously increasing his risks as he needs to source these from the environment. All of these factors cumulatively increase the likelihood of his capture, as they push him further into making potentially critical mistakes.
Above: Twisting water-ways and steep topography present numerous challenges to both law enforcement and fugitive alike.
Public Safety
In the face of a manhunt like this, it's essential to recognize the importance of community vigilance and collaboration with law enforcement. Craig Caudill's insights are an invaluable resource, however, it is important to remember that searching for a fugitive on your own is dangerous, should not be attempted, and is best left to the authorities. Meanwhile, it's crucial for the public to remain alert and maintain situational awareness, particularly those living in or around the Allegheny Forest. If anyone spots anything suspicious or has any information regarding the whereabouts of Michael Burham, they should immediately report it to the local law enforcement authorities. Public safety is paramount, and every bit of information, no matter how small it might seem, could be a vital piece in resolving this tense situation.
Update: The Hunt is Over
On July 15th, Burham was caught in the backyard of a Pennsylvania couple, Ron and Cindy Ecklund. The couple heard their dog barking and went to investigate, only to come face-to-face with Burham, who told them he was camping. The Ecklunds contacted the police, who arrested Burham and paid them a $2,000 cash reward. They may also receive additional rewards of $10,000 from Pennsylvania Crime Stoppers and $7,500 from the U.S. Marshals Service.
As for Burham, he was reportedly found with two bags of supplies including food and ammunition in “several different calibers,” although he did not appear to have a firearm at the time of his arrest. He was wearing a t-shirt and prison pants turned inside-out. In addition to his new escape charge, he will return to prison to face his previous charges of carjacking and kidnapping. He is also reportedly a suspect in homicide and rape cases in Jamestown, New York.
Ever since humans have decided to use pointy objects as a persuasive tool, they have been attempting to figure out ways to counter the tactic. Compared to its ancient ancestors, the HRT LBAC plate carrier is a modern marvel. Early protective garments were made of leather, fur and other lightweight materials, and usually only covered the torso and arms. Primitive armor offered some protection against slashing and blunt force impacts, as well as some degree of warmth and protection from the elements. As warfare and metallurgy advanced, so did armor design. Bronze, iron and steel were forged into plates and segments that could be arranged to maximize protection against a variety of weapons. Suits of armor such as these offered increased protection but were expensive to make, worn only by the wealthy elite.
Above: Using things found in nature, like animal leather and raw metals, ancient humans invented ways to toughen their fleshy exteriors.
Fast forward a few thousand years, and the advent of black powder largely negated the effectiveness of steel plate. If a soldier couldn't hunker down in a tank, or behind reinforced concrete, firearms would easily pierce through historic steel plate armor. So instead of trying to run around with the weight of steel thick enough to stop a bullet, ancient armor was ditched in favor of being able to treat a wound quicker. Although this worked for a while, simply getting shot was still not the ideal way to engage in combat. Eventually chemistry and industry improved to a point where the ceramic plate was invented, and humanity has been using it to this day. Ceramic is lighter, and disperses energy better than steel, making it ideal for body armor.
Above: For a time, armor for the average soldier didn't really exist, instead relying on easy access to treat wounds quickly.
Having an advanced style of body armor also necessitates finding an effective way to wear it. Generals on the battlefield no longer assemble soldiers in rank and file formations which move methodically in an open area. These days, speed and mobility is the name of the game. To maintain a high level of agility, and stay armored at the same time, ceramic plates are used mainly to cover the body’s vital organs, leaving the arms, legs and lower half of the torso to move freely. Of course, this doesn’t offer perfect protection, but since all of the vital organs in a human body are in the center of its mass–the easiest place to aim at with a firearm–it is an effective way to stay alive in a firefight.
Above: Combining quick access to wounded extremities with armor protecting vital organs, modern soldiers receive the benefits of both protective measures.
Many systems have been tried in an attempt to keep that ceramic plate covering the most necessary bits. Flak jackets in the 60’s were fitted to have a plate slide into the front and back, but these were awkward, and still felt cumbersome. During the early 2000’s, advances were made in the form of the Outer Tactical Vest (OTV), and later the Improved Outer Tactical Vest (IOTV). Although they offered better mobility, it was still a bit bulky and exceedingly heavy. Moving in and out of vehicles and buildings wearing an IOTV could be difficult on its own. Start carrying any extra gear, ammo, or equipment and the extra weight added up quickly. Then along came the Adaptive Vest System, what is now colloquially known simply as a Plate Carrier. Plate carriers are minimalistic, ditching the extra Kevlar jacket bulk of an IOTV, and once soldiers began to take note of how great they functioned in combat, the body armor industry has never looked back.
High Risk Training (HRT)
HRT is a company that has been working with modern tactical body armor since the early 2000’s. They originally began as a company that focused solely on tactical training before evolving into one that produces tactical gear. During the training phase, HRT noticed how traditional plate carrier systems could be improved, and they used this insight to develop a product reflecting what ideal gear should look like. They pride themselves on making a product that can be used reliably in real-world, worst-case scenarios, including the Load Bearing Adaptive Carrier, otherwise known as the LBAC. By combining the HRT experience with a plethora of customer feedback, they designed the LBAC from the ground up to exceed expectations. The results are nothing short of impressive.
Above: The LBAC is modular and highly customizable.
HRT LBAC Plate Carrier
Following the minimalist approach, the base LBAC, without any plates, pouches or accessories weighs a mere 2 pounds. Add two 10” x 12” ceramic plates and the LBAC can weigh between 10 and 14 pounds. That is less than half the weight of its predecessor, the IOTV. The cummerbund, back and shoulders are made with a stiffened material to evenly distribute weight around the body and avoid producing hot spots. Plates are held securely in place with a wide Velcro panel accessible from the bottom. The front and back panels are nearly form-fitting to the plates, so they do not slide around once they are inserted into the carrier.
Above: A tough internal support system ensures the weight of the armor plates and any attached accessories is evenly distributed.
There are a few ways to adorn the LBAC depending on the user's preference. At each end of the cummerbund, and in the front ends of the shoulder harness, are quick release buckles. One quick tug down or to the sides, and the carrier comes free. Reattaching the buckles is easy as well. Just line up the pegs and they click back into place. Manipulating these buckles is as easy with bare hands as it is with thick winter gloves, which could be lifesaving if the wearer found themselves trapped underwater, or with the need to quickly get clear of whatever they became snagged on. Releasing the top buckles while leaving the cummerbund connected, or vice versa, gives access for medical or thermoregulating purposes while still offering a level of protection. In addition to the buckles on the cummerbund, Velcro panels hold the sides securely to the front panel of the LBAC, and can be torn free should the need arise.
Above: The back and waist supports of the LBAC are fitted with Velcro and MOLLE to support a variety of attachments and gear.
Besides the advanced load bearing capabilities, one of the stand-out features of the LBAC is its customizability. HRT has designed a truly versatile system of interchangeable and compatible pouches and placards. No matter what an operator's role is within a stack, or what the tactical needs may be, there is a way to customize it to perfection. Having seen products fail during training exercises, special attention is made to ensure the LBAC and its accessories are constructed to a high standard. All the material is made with 500 denier Cordura and double stitched, so even if this carrier were being dragged through a gravel pit, it would come out the other side intact.
Above: Quick release bungie cords keep magazines in place while offering a hasty means of grabbing one.
Placards, the accessories that attach to the front of the LBAC, focus primarily on what is most important in a fire fight: having enough ammo. There are AR and pistol mag options, as well as a shotgun placard. Most of these are one magazine thick, keeping the front profile slim and allowing the wearer to move their weapon platform around easily without a huge stack of magazines getting in the way. However, with the MOLLE placard, magazine pouches with greater capacity could be added, and the HRT Maximus Placard includes two admin pouches with plenty of room for other supplies. To cover every possible base, there are “hanger” accessories that attach below the front plate, like the Tactical Hand Warmer for cold weather scenarios. All of these placards can be quickly swapped via buckle and Velcro, depending on what the mission dictates.
Above: For cold environments, a hand warming pouch can be utilized to keep trigger fingers at the ready without the bulk of gloves getting in the way.
What often goes overlooked by many people who watch movies with military operators, is how often back panels are used by other members of the team, and not necessarily the person who wears it. Often they are used as tactical supply depots, filled with extra ammo, batteries, food, medical gear, and even equipment used to breach doors and windows. Instead of worrying about how to keep all this extra stuff easily accessible on oneself, an operator can simply use the person in front of them. In this regard, HRT Back Panels further increase the versatility of the LBAC. Rather than increasing the size of the wearer's profile with an assault pack, the LBAC has customizable packs that can be swapped out or rearranged. A combination of dual YKK zipper sections, MOLLE, and Velcro keep each back panel fixed firmly in place. One of the largest panels, the HRT Zip-On Hydro Max is only 10” by 10” by 4” and can hold a 1.5L hydration bladder and a ton of extra gear. Other options like the General Purpose, or Dual Removable GP pouches can minimize the bulk while still adding plenty of storage, and a dedicated MOLLE panel can hold anything with MOLLE attachments. Just like with the placards, back panels can be interchanged and swapped for any situation.
Above: A robust back panel for the plate carrier can hold supplies and gear easily accessible by teammates.
Non-Military Plate Carrier Uses
If there is anything the past few years has taught us, it is that danger can manifest any time, anywhere. Being on the business end of an angry person with a firearm is not restricted to the battlefield. Just ask the business owners whose shops were looted and set on fire throughout the United States, or the innumerable refugees from broken and war-torn countries. There are literally tens of millions of people, even now, who have been forcibly displaced due to violence. How many lives could be saved with the help of some modern day body armor?
Above: Civil unrest, refugees seeking help, and people living in dangerous places could potentially prevent serious injury or death by wearing armor.
Having armor is no longer just for elite warriors or military personnel. It has become affordable, lightweight, and easy to use on a daily basis. It’s a sobering reality, but as law enforcement agencies face budget cuts, and crime rates rise, the need for self protection also increases. Even if it can’t be loaded down with ammo, an HRT LBAC could be donned and filled with everything needed to move to a safer location quickly. For those who train with firearms regularly, wearing body armor while doing so could add a new level of challenge to the training regimen, or increase survivability in a real-world scenario.
Above: EMTs rushing to the scene of a dangerous emergency to help people could be at risk from bullets and shrapnel.
Outside of the civilian realm, other first responders could make great use of body armor. EMTs responding to triage during a dangerous situation like an active shooter, or bombing with the potential for a secondary device, could be armored and protected. An HRT back panel or placard filled with medical supplies would be easy to get to and use once on scene. Search and Rescue operators attempting to locate a despondent and potentially armed missing subject could use body armor to mitigate the risk of having a firearm pointed in their direction. Basically anyone who has the chance of being shot or hit with shrapnel could save their lives by having a plate carrier at the ready. And with a company like HRT making a versatile product like the LBAC, anyone with the resources could have a greater chance of making it through the worst of times.
For more information on HRT Tactical Gear and the LBAC plate carrier, go to hrttacticalgear.com.
Service members across the military have recently become targets of a concerning trend involving unsolicited smartwatches being delivered to their mailing addresses. The DABENXIANG D18 watches in question seem to be imitations of more expensive models, the primary function of which is as a personal fitness tracker. When the watches are turned on, the unsuspecting recipients discover that the devices automatically connect to Wi-Fi and establish unauthorized connections with their smartphones. This alarming breach of privacy grants unknown individuals access to a wide range of personal user data.
Above: In recent years, smartwatches have become popular among civilians and military personnel alike. However, like any electronic device, they are vulnerable to malware and cyberattacks.
Potential Risks and Malware
Although receiving a free piece of hardware seems like a sweet deal at first glance, unsolicited smartwatches pose severe risks as they may come with pre-installed malware designed to exploit the recipients' personal information. In the event that these malicious software programs are present, the sender gains unauthorized access to an array sensitive data, including banking information, contact details, and account credentials such as usernames and passwords. The phones may also transmit other data such as tracking the service members location via GPS. What initially may seem like a pleasant surprise ends up compromising the individual's digital security, their financial stability, and potentially their personal safety.
Above: We carry these smart devices with us everywhere, most of the time oblivious to the fact that they are listening through the built in microphone, and transmitting personal data.
Privacy Invasion through Voice and Cameras
In addition to data theft and unwarranted tracking, the smartwatches in question may also contain malware that grants unauthorized access to the built-in voice and camera functionalities. This allows nefarious actors to eavesdrop on conversations and access accounts associated with the smartwatches. Given the sensitive nature of what some people in the military work with, wearing an electronic device received through the mail in this manner is akin to being accompanied by a foreign intelligence agent. This invasion of privacy further emphasizes the need to exercise caution with unsolicited equipment, and be increasingly vigilant for those who may not be aware that this occurring.
Above: Tracking where military personnel may be located and listening to what they are saying, could have disastrous implications to national security.
Brushing Scam Alert
One does not have to work in the military to be a target of a deceptive practice known as “Brushing.” This tactic involves the mailing of products, often counterfeit, to random individuals with the aim of generating positive reviews under the recipients' names. By doing so, the sender intends to gain a competitive edge against established products. Recognizing this scam highlights the potential motives behind the unsolicited delivery and underscores the importance of taking appropriate measures. However, smartwatches being sent specifically to military men and women potentially indicates a more sinister motive. Recent data breaches within the government compound the danger of people privy to secret or compartmentalized being the target of a brushing scam.
Above: As data harvested from smart devices is becoming more prolific, so too is the rise in cyber crime.
What to Do If You Receive an Unsolicited Smartwatch
If you happen to receive one of these suspicious devices, it is crucial that you refrain from turning it on. Government employees, private contractors, or anyone working on or near sensitive subjects should promptly report the incident to their local counterintelligence or security manager. Alternatively, service members can utilize the Submit a Tip – Report a Crime portal, which serves as an official channel for reporting such occurrences. Civilians can utilize their local law enforcements non-emergency contact information to report the receipt of an unsolicited electronic device. By taking immediate action, you contribute to safeguarding your personal privacy and protecting others from falling victim to this concerning trend.
Above: Most people enjoy receiving free things in the mail, but sometimes it pays to question the intent behind the gift.
Parting Thoughts
The emergence of unsolicited smartwatches being sent to military service members raises significant security concerns, and highlights the rapidly evolving world of big-data. With auto-connectivity to Wi-Fi and unauthorized access to smartphones, these devices expose users and the security of the nation to many potential dangers, known and unknown. The presence of malware further exacerbates these risks by compromising personal information and enabling unauthorized access to voice and camera functionalities. Recognizing the potential involvement of a brushing scam underscores the need to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions. By promptly reporting any such incidents and refraining from activating these smartwatches, individuals can play a crucial role in combating this growing threat to digital security.
Above: Even water that looks clear can be contaminated. Be very careful when practicing field hygiene.
Above: Processing firewood for cooking and warmth is made much easier with a saw.
Above: Having a bit of rope is a game changer, opening the doors to everything from fishing to furniture.
