As chief mantracking instructor at Hull’s Tracking School, I am constantly traveling, moving from one country to another about once a week. This involves taking airplanes, buses, trains, and lots of traveling on foot. And of course, it means utilizing various pieces of kit to carry essential supplies. Over the years I’ve lost count of how many pieces of equipment I’ve used, from modern tactical solutions to vintage style gear without being entirely satisfied, which is why FROG.PRO caught my attention.
Mantracking Rig Criteria
My idea of the perfect gear system which can cater to all of my needs must meet the following criteria:
Easy to carry
Versatile
Durable
Usable in different seasons and with various weather conditions
Suitable to be paired with different backpacks
Above: Many of FROG.PRO’s components are handcrafted, making it easier to produce one-off custom orders.
Not asking for too much, right? I was actually looking for something I had in mind, a variation from what I saw the SAS use in Malaysia and Borneo while I was writing my book “Jungle Trackers.” Basically, I wanted to replicate that kind of equipment by employing modern materials and more innovative concepts.
After much research, trial and error, and countless hours of field testing, I ran into FROG.PRO. FROG.PRO is a company founded by Italian tactical craftsmen. They make tailored gear suitable for anything from outdoor activities and recreation to tactical operations and private security. The materials they use are some of the best on the market, including Cordura fabric, ITW Nexus fastenings, YKK zippers, Hi-Tech laminated fabrics, Velcro brand hook & loop fasteners, and mil-spec webbing. And rather than outsourcing to a factory overseas, the production process is handled and executed within the company itself.
Since this was a product I desperately needed, I placed a call and asked them if I could pay a visit to discuss my needs in the field.
Above: At FROG.PRO’s production facility in central Italy, components are prepared and organized.
About FROG.PRO
Fabio Casali, former Italian Army Soldier, and the owner and founder of FROG.PRO, welcomed me directly and invited me to tour their facility. The company’s manufacturing facility occupies the ground floor of an elegant building not far from Parma, in the central area of Italy. Totally renovated by Fabio, the facility hosts all the company’s production phases, from design, to product realization, to sale. Founded in May 2013 – and solely operated by Fabio at the time – FROG.PRO now employs 13 people; 9 in production, and 4 between administrative offices and marketing.
In 2015 FROG.PRO brought laser cut gear to Europe for the first time. This makes their products less webbing-dependent, but also extremely lightweight.
FROG.PRO’s reputation for quality has allowed them to partner up with different units, like 17° Stormo Incursori (their very first cooperation), then with all the Italian Special Forces units (G.I.S., N.O.C.S., 9º RGT “Col Moschin”, G.O.I, 185° RGT RRAO, etc.). They’ve collaborated with foreign countries as well, including a Belgian government agency.
Above: The HAWK Plate Carrier with several modular pouch systems on display.
Customized For The Field
Fabio kindly asked me to show him the contents of my Tracking Kit and to explain my needs. After discussing and evaluating different solutions, we ended with a set up that included:
A tactical belt
Suspenders
A utility pouch with two multipurpose panels inside
A flashlight pouch
Enough space for modular expansion in the future
Above: Kyt Lyn Walken using her custom tracking rig in the field during a tracking exercise.
The whole system was designed and tailored for my needs, according to my body size. Since receiving the custom made Tracking Kit, I have been impressed by the quality, performance, and how well it fits my needs throughout my field training and classes that I lead.
Custom work aside, some of FROG.PRO’s most iconic products include the Sniper CORE (released in September 2022), the HAWK Plate Carrier, the Chiron Mini IFAK, the SFD-Responder 2.0, and the already mentioned Multi Purpose Organizers. Many of these items have proven ideal for tasks we perform at Hull’s Tracking School, and for the rigors of the field.
For the average vehicle owner, there’s one element that often goes unnoticed yet plays a pivotal role in our safety: vehicle lighting. Vehicle lighting is not only used to show us the way through the dark, but they are also used as an important form of communication to other drivers. Many of us have experienced a vehicle from another lane turning into our own without the warning of a signal light, or have had the high beams flashed in our direction to warn us of a danger ahead. Those are dangerous situations that could be easily avoided. We often look at upgrading to the latest headlamp, hand torch or mounted gun light, but we rarely discuss the benefits of LED lighting being added to your average, everyday vehicle. Improving your visibility, and means of communicating with other vehicles on the road is simple and easy to do.
Above: Halogen headlights have been used for decades, but their warm light is sub-optimal compared to modern LEDs.
Tracing the Path of Automotive Illumination
Before the age of electricity, vehicles, primarily horse-drawn carriages, relied on lanterns fueled by oil or kerosene. These lanterns, though rudimentary, served the dual purpose of illuminating the path and signaling the vehicle’s presence to others. However, their limited brightness and the need for constant refueling made them less than ideal for the burgeoning world of motor vehicles. The late 19th and early 20th centuries marked a significant shift in vehicle lighting. With the advent of the electric bulb, cars began to feature electric headlights. The 1912 Cadillac was one of the first cars to incorporate an electrical system, which included electric lights. This not only improved visibility but also eliminated the need for drivers to step outside to light or adjust their lamps.
Above: Notice the kerosine tail light on this Model T? This method was used to signal and illuminate on everything from horse-drawn carriages to steam locomotives.
Introduced in the 1960s, halogen bulbs became the standard for vehicle lighting for several decades. They offered a brighter, whiter light compared to their predecessors and had a longer lifespan. The tungsten filaments in these bulbs, encased in halogen gas, ensured that the filament didn’t degrade quickly, leading to a more extended period of illumination. The 1990s saw the rise of HID (high-intensity discharge) or Xenon lights. These lights, known for their distinctive blue-white glow, provided even better illumination than halogen bulbs. Instead of a filament, they used an arc of electricity between two electrodes, housed in a chamber filled with xenon gas. This technology resulted in brighter light output and increased efficiency.
The 21st century ushered in the era of Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs). LEDs transformed the automotive lighting landscape with their superior brightness, efficiency, and longevity. Their compact size also allowed for more innovative and stylish headlight designs. Moreover, with the ability to turn on and off instantly, LEDs found applications in brake lights, enhancing safety by reducing the reaction time for drivers following behind. With advancements in technology, vehicle lighting has become more than just about illumination. Modern cars come equipped with adaptive lighting systems that adjust the beam direction based on steering input, ensuring optimal illumination on curves. Additionally, smart lighting systems can automatically adjust the light intensity based on external conditions, ensuring maximum visibility without blinding oncoming drivers.
Above: A major drawback of vehicle lights that use filaments is that they burn out much quicker than modern LED’s.
Advantages of Modern Lighting Systems
Superior Visibility: Modern lighting systems, especially LEDs, emit a brighter and more intense light compared to traditional halogen bulbs. This increased brightness ensures that drivers can see farther and more clearly, especially during nighttime or adverse weather conditions. LEDs often produce a cooler, whiter light that closely resembles daylight. This natural color improves contrast, helping drivers recognize obstacles, pedestrians, and road signs more quickly and accurately.
Energy Efficiency: LEDs are known for their low power consumption. They can produce the same amount of light as halogen bulbs while using a fraction of the energy. This efficiency translates to less strain on a vehicle’s electrical system and potential fuel savings. With increased energy efficiency comes a reduction in CO2 emissions. As vehicles consume less power for lighting, they indirectly contribute to a decrease in environmental pollution.
Above: LEDs can dramatically ramp up the cool factor by outlining grills, undercarriages and hood ornaments. But it also makes the vehicle easier to spot in the dark, increasing safety.
Durability and Longevity: Modern lighting technologies have a significantly longer lifespan than traditional bulbs. While a halogen bulb might last around 1,000 hours, an LED can last up to 50,000 hours, reducing the need for frequent replacements. Modern lights are devoid of fragile filaments, and are more resistant to vibrations and shocks, making them less prone to damage during bumpy rides or minor accidents.
Design Flexibility: The small size of LEDs has given automotive designers more freedom to experiment with headlight designs, leading to more aerodynamic and aesthetically pleasing vehicles. Modern lighting systems can incorporate adaptive features, such as cornering lights that turn with the steering wheel, ensuring optimal illumination in all driving scenarios.
Above: Adding lights can help campers and overlanders spot safety concerns on in rough terrain after the sun goes down.
Safety Enhancements: LEDs light up instantaneously, which is especially beneficial for brake lights. The immediate illumination can give the driver behind a few extra milliseconds to react, potentially preventing accidents. Advanced lighting systems are designed to reduce glare for oncoming drivers, ensuring that brighter lights don’t compromise the safety of others on the road.
Cost Savings: Given their extended lifespan, modern lights, though more expensive initially, can lead to cost savings over time as they don’t need frequent replacements. With their enhanced durability, modern lighting systems often require less maintenance, saving vehicle owners both time and money.
Potential Pitfalls of Upgrading Lights
Initial Investment: Many LED options can be more expensive than traditional halogen bulbs. This initial investment can deter some vehicle owners, especially if they’re unaware of the long-term benefits. Upgrading to a more advanced lighting system might require professional installation, adding to the overall cost.
Compatibility and Integration Issues: Not all modern lights are plug-and-play solutions for older vehicle models. Some vehicles might require modifications or additional components to accommodate the new lights. Advanced lighting systems might have different power requirements, potentially necessitating upgrades to the vehicle’s electrical system or wiring. For example, older vehicles come with removable relays that help control certain features like blinker speed. Newer vehicles on the other hand, have replaced relays digitally. Which means fixing issues like hyper-blinking after installing LEDs might be impossible without a dealership to reprogram digital components.
Above: Trying to make wiring modifications can cause serious problems without the proper technical expertise.
Potential for Glare and Disturbance: If not properly aligned or installed, modern lights, especially those with higher brightness, can produce glare that blinds or distracts other drivers. Some regions have regulations regarding the brightness or color temperature of vehicle lights, and upgrading without considering these regulations can lead to legal issues or fines.
Maintenance and Repairs: While modern lights tend to be more durable, when they do need repairs, it might require specialized knowledge or tools, making DIY fixes more challenging. In some advanced lighting systems, a single malfunctioning component might necessitate the replacement of the entire unit, leading to higher repair costs.
Installing Vehicle LEDs
For those who are not accustomed to working on their own vehicles, making modifications can be a daunting proposition. It is easy to imagine worst case scenarios of causing serious damage, or wrecking the vehicle in some way. A good rule-of-thumb to follow with any DIY project where high value items are involved is: if it makes you too uncomfortable, don’t do it. When it comes to vehicles in particular, some modification projects are easier than others, and taking it to a professional could save time and money in the long run. So proceed at your own discretion. Companies like Oracle Lighting have a mix of products ranging from easy to install, swappable headlights, to more advanced strip lights that require a little technical knowledge, which makes it easy to pick and plan exactly how you would like to to upgrade your vehicles lighting.
Above: Stock bed lights offer some illumination at night, but it is not ideal.
Fortunately, you do not have to bolt an entire array of bar and strip lights over every square inch of your vehicles body panels to benefit from upgraded lighting. One of the least problematic and easiest upgrades is simply swapping out the headlights. Newer vehicles can make even this project more challenging than it needs to be, but the concept is pretty straight forward, and most headlights simply plug and twist into place. Auto parts stores will be able to tell you the exact LED you need for your vehicles make and model, and in less than an hour, you’ll be seeing things in the dark that were previously obscured. Headlights may be all that you need to improve safety and illumination on the road, but there are LED versions of every light from blinkers to license plate lights that could improve the quality of your drive.
Then there are the more advanced lighting projects where personal experience will dictate whether or not you have LEDs professionally installed. This includes specialized lights for camping, overlanding, and trailers, and typically involves tying into the vehicles wiring. Online tutorials for these projects exist in many flavors from highly detailed, to uncomfortably vague, and you should avoid following along with any that don’t make you feel confident about completing the installation successfully. Splicing into the wrong wire, or making an improper connection can have cascading detrimental effects to the rest of your vehicle.
Above: Oracle Lighting LED light strips enhance the effectiveness by illuminating the truck bed in its entirety.
Practical Implications of Advanced Vehicle Illumination
Imagine navigating a serpentine mountain road on a foggy evening. With traditional halogen bulbs, the dense fog scatters the light, severely limiting visibility and making every twist and turn a potential hazard. Now, contrast this with powerful LED lights equipped with adaptive fog lighting technology. These advanced systems pierce through the fog, revealing potential obstacles like fallen branches, wildlife, or sharp bends, ensuring a safer and more confident drive.
Driving on a highway during a torrential downpour can be another daunting situation. The reflection of water on the road, combined with the spray from other vehicles, can significantly reduce visibility. Modern lighting systems, with their enhanced brightness and color temperature, can cut through the rain, reducing glare and improving the driver’s ability to judge distances and spot potential hazards.
Above: Tail lights communicate to other drivers when you are stopping, turning or going in reverse. Oracle LEDs are brighter than common stock lights, making the vehicle more visible to those who may be following behind.
Venturing on a remote countryside road devoid of streetlights presents more hazards not typically encountered in well-lit cities. In such scenarios, the vehicle’s lighting becomes the sole source of illumination. Advanced lighting systems, with their broader and more extended beam patterns, illuminate not just the road but also the peripheries, helping drivers spot animals, pedestrians, or other obstacles that might suddenly come into the path.
In a bustling city intersection, a myriad of activities occurs simultaneously – pedestrians crossing, cyclists weaving through traffic, and vehicles from multiple directions. Here, proper lighting plays a dual role. Bright and responsive brake lights and indicators ensure clear communication of the driver’s intentions to others, reducing the risk of collisions. Simultaneously, headlights with adaptive urban lighting can adjust their intensity to prevent blinding other drivers or pedestrians.
Above: Oracle headlights provide bright white light as opposed to the warm light of halogen bulbs. This makes everything in front of you easier to see for a greater distance.
Parking in tight spaces or multi-story parking lots with poor lighting is a recipe for fender benders. Newer vehicles equipped with perimeter lighting or puddle lamps illuminate the area around the vehicle. This not only aids in parking but also ensures drivers and passengers can safely enter or exit the vehicle, avoiding pot holes or tripping hazards.
Beyond Just Illumination
Vehicle lighting, often taken for granted, is more than just about seeing the road. While advancements in technology will continue to enhance our driving experience, it’s crucial to remember the foundational purpose of vehicle lights: safety. Wearing a powerful headlamp will boost your visibility and keep you from getting injured during a power outage, or while out on the trail. So why not take the time to upgrade your visibility while operating thousands of pounds of fast moving steel?
Hiking on a marked trail can seem like an easy task at first. There are innumerable trailheads to start from across the country, and each one typically has a map of the area as a guide. Even if you come ill prepared, most people can take a photo of the trailhead map with their phones or make a sketch with whatever they happen to have with them. In some places where trails are more popular, there are dedicated navigation apps to help ensure you get the most enjoyment out of your adventure. But even with all this redundancy available, outdoor enthusiasts can still find themselves navigating without tools to guide them.
One of the most common ways that people find themselves lost in the wilderness without any tools to guide them, is by stepping off the beaten path to relieve themselves. Often these soon-to-be lost people will ground their gear on the trail so they can get out of sight in a more agile way. Then they travel far enough away from the trail so that no other passers-by can see observe them doing their business. Upon completion, they confidently head back to where they assume the trail and their gear is located, and this is where things go awry.
Above: Stepping off the trail briefly may seem harmless at first, but can quickly lead to a disorienting event.
Walking back to the trail, the now lost individual may not feel immediately disoriented until they realize the walk back is taking much longer than they expected. But once they realize the trail isn’t where they thought it was, they are hit with an overwhelming feeling of dread. Maybe panic sets in as they frantically search for the trail, which is deceptively more difficult than they assumed it would be. This situation can escalate quickly into a life-threatening situation if the lost person doesn’t quickly get a grip on the situation or take the appropriate actions. What should someone do in this situation? Let’s learn some easy ways to prevent becoming lost, even if you are left with nothing but the clothes on your back.
Planning Ahead
An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, so before you venture into the wild, planning is essential. This sort of planning can prevent a worst case scenario such as having to navigate the wilderness without any tools. It’s much like setting out on a road trip – you wouldn’t start without knowing your destination, right? Similarly, it’s imperative to familiarize yourself with your route, identify key features, potential hazards, and have a few contingency plans for those hazards before heading out. A good map reconnaissance will equip you with valuable information about the terrain, water sources, and distinguishing landmarks. Knowing how to read and interpret a map is an invaluable skill, and thankfully, there are many sources out there to learn map reading from.
Above: Looking at a map, even if it is the crude park map posted at the trailhead, can give you a better idea of where you are going, and maybe even prevent becoming lost. A good rule of thumb is to have a paper back up, and a photo on your phone.
The wilderness doesn’t offer printed road signs, but it does make certain geographical features more obvious than others. Establishing an emergency bearing – a direction leading to a large, noticeable feature or civilization – before you head out is key. It could last resort when all else fails, and it is a very simple thing to do. For example, while looking on your map, you may notice a town or city nearby your intended destination, or a river, or a powerline. Any of these features could help you find help or lifesaving resources. Simply note what the direction is, so if you become lost, you can head in that general direction knowing that you will eventually run into the feature.
Above: Power-lines, highways, and major waterways are easy to identify landmarks that can be used to find your way back to safety, but they must be identified before you head out.
Packing wisely should be a no brainer, pre-trip task. Along with your basic necessities, always bring signaling equipment like mirrors, whistles, or flares. Knowing how to use those tools is just as important as brining them along. For example, blowing whistle three times in a row, may sound like the call of bird to someone searching for you in the distance, whereas one long continuous whistle will capture their attention quickly. There are a bunch of other emergency signaling techniques to choose from, just ensure you know a few of the most effective for the area you’ll be in. Think of them as your lifeline, connecting you to the outside world.
Preparing for the elements will keep you alive the longest. Most people who die while they are lost in the wilderness succumb to what is known as exposure. This means that their body could no longer regulate its own temperature, and is caused by becoming either too hot or too cold for too long. The wilderness can be as kind as it is harsh, and knowing what weather to expect helps you to dress appropriately, manage your energy, and overall, make your journey safer.
Feeling Lost
Understanding what happens when you realize you are lost could help you make smarter decisions. When you look around and notice that you are not where you should be or start feeling uncertain about where you may be heading, your body reacts instantly. Catecholamines – like adrenaline and epinephrine – kick in, triggering the fight, flight, or freeze response. You might feel disoriented, panicked, or anxious. This is where the STOP method comes into play: Stop, Think, Observe, and Plan. The act of consciously thinking about your situation, what your options are, and what resources you have at your disposal can slow or halt the flow of catecholamines. It’s a powerful tool to regain control of your emotional response and make rational decisions.
Above: The human is just as prone to fear as other animals. Being able to recognize and acknowledge what you’re feeling will help keep those emotions under control in a stressful situation.
One useful technique to control those heart-pumping hormones is to sit down and dump your pockets. Take inventory of what you have – anything could be a potential survival tool, and this where you should get the most creative about improvising your way out of the situation. Evaluate whether it’s best to stay put and make yourself visible, or to start moving to a location with a higher likelihood of discovery. As a rule of thumb, if you’re close to a well-traveled route, it’s often wise to stay put and signal for help. But perhaps finding higher ground would get you to a place where you get better cellphone coverage, or a better vantage point to reorient yourself. It’s situationally dependent, but more often than not, staying put leads to the highest chance of being discovered by a rescuer.
Navigating by Day
The sun is your daytime guiding star. In the northern hemisphere, it’s due south when at its highest, and due north in the southern hemisphere. This simple information can be used to keep your bearings. You can take this a step further by creating a makeshift compass using a stick and some stones. Place a stick vertically in the ground and mark the end of its shadow with a stone. Wait for a while and mark the new position of the shadow. The first mark indicates west, and the second one, east. However, this method only works when the sun is visible. On a cloudy day, you can still figure out your bearings by using a thin, straight object and a flat surface like your fingernail. The sun’s position, even when not directly visible, will cast a shadow, indicating its direction.
Above: In full sun, just placing a stick in the ground and waiting a few minutes for the shadow to move will help reestablish your sense of direction. In the northern hemisphere, the shadow points generally north, but its accuracy depends on the time of day.
Above: Once you place a straight stick in the ground, mark the initial point of where the shadow lies. It may be helpful to mark it with something that will be easy to identify later so you don’t lose track.
Above: After about 10-15 minutes, you can mark where the shadow has moved. By making a straight line across the two points where the shadow was marked, you are effectively identifying the east-west cardinal directions.
Above: A compass was used to demonstrate how accurate the improvised sundial is. In the photo above, it is pretty spot on.
When humans navigate, be it vegetated wilderness or urban jungle, we create maps in our minds and move relative to the features we recognize. If it’s a trail in the Ozarks, we might use a particularly tall hill to associate where we are in relation to the land around us. In downtown Chicago, we may look for a familiar skyscraper. Navigating in this way is known as terrain association and it is another beneficial way to get around without having to look at a map or shoot an azimuth with a compass. Identify landforms and compare them with your earlier map reconnaissance. Keep your eyes open for watercourses, as they often lead to human settlements.
In our earlier example of walking off the trail for a bathroom break, we can create our own trail markers to find our way back. This method could come in in many forms and are limited only be the imagination. For example, stacking stones or sticks in a particular way periodically would be useful landmarks to find your way back. Brightly colored paracord or marking ribbon, sometimes called flagging, tied at eye-level as you make your way into the vegetation would easily help you return to the trail.
Above: Use long tails and tie off at eye level when marking a trail with flagging, this will make it easier to identify in thick vegetation. If you can line up three in a row, a relatively straight line can be made, which is helpful for maintaining an accurate direction of travel.
Be careful if you use the flagging method to establish a long-term route, such as an off-trail camping location. Inquisitive animals like deer and raccoons will sometimes unintentionally remove these trail markers out of curiosity. To prevent this from happening, make tight knots and leave long tails, about arms-length, to maximize your chances of picking up the route you created. If creating artificial trail markings is impractical, we can look for our way back to safety by using something that all living creatures leave behind: Tracks.
Tracking Skills for Self-Recovery
Navigation mastery typically involves the employment of maps and other devices. Nonetheless, running out of batteries or finding yourself stranded somewhere and with no connection is far from being a remote possibility. This is when your tracking/backtracking skills can be put into use. Tracking yourself in unknown places requires a high level of expertise, along with commitment, dedication, focus and bravery. To many, the skill of tracking can seem primordial, however, it is an art which has been successfully handed down through various means over time to the present. Since the principles of tracking are as old as humanity itself, the skill has maintained itself as a powerful survival tool.
Tracking can be defined as the ability of locating, reading, interpreting, and following animals and/or men by the tracks they left. Simply put, the ground and the entire environment you are in, can provide us all the information we need to get out from a tough situation.
Above: Running through the center of this photo is a path where someone has walked through previously. Identifying disturbed vegetation can help you find your way back to a trail or previous starting point.
Trackers are not a special breed of person. They don’t tap into fantastical magic, and they are not guided by any supernatural force when they inspect the ground to gain important information. They just rely on simple facts, and on science. Their task is to read the ground, interpret what they see and follow the tracks which are of their interest. They collect clues, which is precious data for them, and put all the pieces together. By reading tracks in this manner, they can disclose how many persons passed on a specific trail, how old the tracks are, if they were carrying gear, if they were man or woman, what was happening at the time, and so on. There is an unbelievable amount of information in each track.
Getting lost in the woods can be handled through the application of the art of tracking and requires no tools beyond your own physical senses, observational skills and intuition. Because of this, it can be employed in any situation, in any weather condition, at any time of day. Reading the tracks of your own, and other people’s footsteps on the ground, for example, can potentially lead you to a safe place, such as a parking area, the next road, and so on.
Above: Knowing the tread pattern of your footwear can help you track your own footsteps back to where you came from.
Being able to read a track easily depends on both the land being traveled, and the individual skill of the tracker. A beginner may only be able to detect their footsteps on ground that is easily disturbed, such as mud or wet sand. An experienced tracker may be able to follow footsteps across exposed bedrock. Using tracking as a self-recovery tool will only be as effective as the tracker, and this skill can only be developed by getting out there and observing the signs you leave behind.
If you find yourself on a soft or humid terrain, you might be able to backtrack yourself by checking the design of the soles of your shoes. This must be done in a very accurate way, as a miss-interpretation could easily lead you into following the tracks of those who passed before you. Running into mistakes can turn into increased distress, especially when you feel physical and mental fatigue.
Observations In the Field
Feeling lost is a harrowing experience, but it can be mitigated, and even resolved with the power of observation. Situational awareness isn’t just looking for immediate threats, its also understanding your position on the globe, and how surrounding features could help or hinder you recover efforts. Observation can allow us to collect data on several details of utter importance connected to safety, such as:
distance to our destination
the type of environment we are in
the area we are crossing
evolving weather conditions
probability of finding a safe place to spend the night
Above: There are multiple tread patterns in this photo, but knowing which one is yours will help you follow the right trail. Tracking in the dust like this can be more difficult than tracking in a medium that is moist.
In terms of tracking, we do not have to look explicitly for footprints, but there are many signs that could leave “bread-crumbs” helping us find our way back. Every detail counts when it comes to understanding our location. Additionally, observed and analyzed information can play an important role in determining our safety if we find ourselves stranded:
signs of urbanization
presences of roads
presence of vehicles
flora and fauna
detection of any sound we can immediately recognize as man-made
any trace of recent or old passage of people and/or animals
Navigating by Night
Night navigation is generally risky due to limited visibility, increased activity of predatory animals, and should be avoided if possible. But the darkness of night is an opportunity to increase your chances of being rescued. At night, it’s easier to signal for help due to the contrast of light and darkness. Rescuers will be able to spot signal fires or blinking distress signals from a much greater distance than they would normally be able to during the day. That being said, if stopping for the night is not an option, the moon and stars can be helpful orienteering tools. The moon rises in the east and sets in the west, just like the sun. As for stars, the Big Dipper constellation in the northern hemisphere and Southern Cross constellation in the southern hemisphere can give you another indication of where north and south are located.
Above: There are several signs on the landscape in this photo that can be used to navigate. City lights in the distance, light pollution over the horizon, and the big dipper in the sky.
Light and noise pollution can indicate nearby human presence but be cautious as these could also be misleading. The roar of ocean surf, or water tumbling over a fall might sound like a busy highway or airport. Light reflecting off the clouds in the sky from a large city may be hundreds of miles away. But, since the darkness will hide any terrain associating reference points, lost persons will almost always wander in circles without something to guide them.
Navigation Myths
As with any subject, wilderness navigation isn’t free from myths. You might’ve heard that moss grows on the north side of trees, which isn’t universally true. Similarly, relying solely on celestial bodies isn’t wise, as weather conditions can make them invisible.
A common myth is that pace count will tell you the exact distance traveled. However, different terrains and individual strides make this a rough estimation at best. Unless you know your pace count perfectly in every weather condition or terrain type you encounter, it will only give you a rough estimate at best. It is much more effective to travel in a straight line towards an emergency bearing.
Finally, there’s a belief that lost people move in circles or favor their dominant side. This isn’t universally applicable and greatly depends on the individual’s state of mind and physical condition, topography, and time of day.
Mastering navigation in the wilderness without relying on tools is an invaluable survival skill. By planning ahead, understanding your body’s response to stress, using nature as your guide, and avoiding the traps navigation myths might try to spring, you’ll be better prepared to face any wilderness adventure that comes your way.
Imagine something as simple as small, interlocking metal bits keeping you or your loved ones from food, medical supplies, or shelter during a disaster. Tuff Possum has considered this, and put together a compact solution. The Entry Kit has a tool for many of the most common locks that may be encountered in an emergency situation. The EZ Card is used like a credit card to bypass latches. Also provided in the credit-card sized Entry Kit holder is the Covert Bypass Multi-Tool, an array of jigglers and comb-picks, Quick Stick Pro for cheaper foreign locks or filing cabinets, and two EZ Decoders for locks with a row of spinning numbers or letters. To tackle the more complex picking tasks, The Entry Kit includes a 6-piece Lockpick Set that features a Short Hook, Half Diamond, City Rake, Hollow Half-Diamond, Triple Peak Large Wave, and Five Peak Small wave. To top it all off, three Longhorn Tension Wrenches of varying thicknesses complete the whole package. Stowed conveniently in a custom leather pouch, it could be easily accessible whenever you need it most.
Making it through a natural disaster or food shortage comfortably means having enough calories to see you through strenuous activity levels. Fortunately the days of having to meticulously grow and preserve your own food are behind us for the time being. Backpacker’s Pantry has put together a FEMA recommended three day meal kit with enough options and variety to keep your palate happy. Six breakfasts and twelve entrees are packed into a conveniently sized box, perfect for long-term emergency storage, or for your next camping trip. Included in the Emergency Meal Kit are two Granola with Bananas, Almonds & Milk, two Blueberry Walnut Oats, two Rocky Mountain Scramble, two Pad Thai with Chicken, two Fettuccini Alfredo with Chicken, one Shepherd’s Potato Stew with Beef, and one Lasagna. There is also a Vegetarian Emergency Meal Kit available as an alternative. Each meal has a potential shelf-life of up to ten years, making this an easy way to stay ready for anything.
SureFire has brought back their legacy Turbo line, which focuses on high-candela lights that have lately become all the rage. The first re-launches in the Turbo line were updated versions of their classic weapon lights, the Scout and the X300. Now they are putting this same power in your pocket with the EDC1-DFT. The name says it all, it’s an everyday carry light that runs on a single power cell. Featuring SureFire’s dual-fuel technology, this light can accept either one rechargeable 18350 or one single-use CR123. Peak output with an 18350 cell is 650 lumens and 95,000 candela, which is impressive for a light that measures less than 5 inches and weighs under 5 ounces. As is proper with a well-rounded EDC light, there is also a 25-lumen low mode ideal for administrative tasks. The clicky tail cap is refreshingly simple: half-hold for momentary, full-press to click into constant on. A second half-tap will get you to low mode. The high-then-low program is fixed, so you always have full power on tap for emergencies.
Water, or rather clean potable water, and its importance to the human body cannot be over emphasized. Every year, a large swath of the entire population of Earth struggles with finding a clean source of water. In North America in particular, powerful storms and failing infrastructure regularly leave thousands wondering if their drinking water is safe to drink. To help mitigate this recurring problem, the company ETA offers an American-made, reusable water bottle that houses a filtration system. It has been independently tested and shown to remove visual, chemical, dissolved particulate, and even radiological contaminants from water. The Water Filter bottle can be used to improve the quality of drinking water and remove unpleasant taste and odor. The bottle itself has 28 ounces of capacity, and the filter has a lifespan of up to 100 gallons. The cap has a large, built in lanyard loop to clip easily with a carabiner or rope and the bottle is made from BPA free materials that do not leach into the water being filtered.
Cutting tools are arguably one of the most important pieces of gear one can carry. From utility to defense, they fill in many gaps that our own two hands cannot. Fixed blades are versatile and fun to have around, but they tend to draw unwanted attention in many populated areas and are potentially illegal to carry in other places. Shorter folding blades are a potential work around to this problem, and can be carried or clipped into a lot more unassuming positions. Bear & Son Cutlery has a ton of fixed and folding blade options, but recently introduced the Bear Edge 61125, or BE125. The BE125 has a 3.25-inch 440 stainless steel reverse tanto blade, and a 4.25-inch stainless steel handle. It’s light, weighing in at mere 4.5 ounces and has been created with a contemporary design. The integrated ball-bearing opens the blade in a smooth motion, and the reversible clip further increases its versatility.
Exposure is a leading cause of fatalities when people venture into the Great Outdoors. This is due in part to underestimating the weather, and being unprepared to withstand its shifting changes. Having a reliable shelter system can mean the difference between life and death, and LiteFighter is keeping outdoorsmen and women alive with their Fido range of sleeping systems. The Fido 2 AI (All In), sleeps two people with their gear comfortably, and can squeeze a 90 by 54-inch tent (with all the stakes, poles and rain flys) into a 19 x 8-inch MOLLE pack. If the Fido 2 is packed with everything included in the kit, it weighs approximately 9.5 pounds, but can be scaled down depending on the expected climate conditions to weigh only 5.9 pounds. The base color of the tent, and the Multi-cam rain fly blends in to wide range of environments which is great if the Fido is being used for a bugout situations, and it is relatively quick to pitch and disassemble. Its cold weather kit includes four parachute stakes to anchor the tent in snow or sand, and it has plenty of zippers and exposed netting to get that perfect thermoregulation and moisture control on the inside.
MPOWERD: Luci Beam 2-in-1 Solar Headlamp and Flashlight
NOTES
Going on a camping trip, late evening hike, or enduring a power outage does not have to mean roughing it like a primitive Neanderthal. Modern life and all of its high-tech gear can be a huge advantage in just about every outdoor or emergency preparedness situation. MPOWERD is keeping all of that techno wizardry up and running with a slew of solar powered charging and lighting devices, including one of their latest, the 2-in-1 Solar Headlamp. The base of the 2-in-1 is has a solar panel for daylight charging, and has an integrated micro-USB port. This makes the base both chargeable from an outlet before you need it, and can be used as a portable power bank when the outlet fails or is unavailable. The base is magnetically clipped to an adjustable headband, and a multi-function light is magnetically clipped to the base. All three pieces can be detached and interchanged depending on how the light needs to be used. When fully charged and set to the high mode, its full 300 lumens will last about 2 hours, but when it is set to the low mode (10 lumens), it can last as long as 24 hours. It has both white and red LED lights, can flex 90 degrees, and the magnetic clips makes it attachable to anything a magnet will stick to.
In the field, distance can be deceiving, which is problematic when trying to estimate how far one needs to travel or shoot. Being able to take the guess work out of determining how far away something is a game changing capability. The Maven CRF.1 -6×22 is a lightweight, compact, laser range-finding monocular that has the potential to make that next outdoor excursion a more successful one. Its dimensions are 4.3 by 2.9 by 1.9 inches, about the same size as an average adult hand, and weighs 8 ounces. The laser can find the range of objects between 5 and 2400 yards away, has line-of-sight and angle compensation, and has a built-in forest mode for readings in heavier vegetation. If a more stable platform is needed, there is a fitting that will attach the CRF.1 to a bipod or tripod, and it is water resistant so a little precipitation won’t get in the way of getting things done. There are three reticle options, one that resembles a cross-hair, an open box, and a single dot, depending on what the targeting needs are, and the display can be in either auto black or red.
EDC should be easily accessible, but placing things in your pockets every day can make it confusing, especially if you don’t wear the exact same clothes day in and day out. Woods Monkey, a company that believes in tactical organization, came up with a solution that is elegant in its simplicity, the Monkey Board. Monkey Boards are made from light-weight and durable Kydex, and are easily integrated with both MOLLE and Tek-Lok systems. They come in three sizes, large, medium and small, and can be fixed in place to a piece of gear, or used to hold EDC items reliably in a pocket. Elastic cords can be used to strap things like a tourniquet, flashlight, or wallet, and the variety and placement of mounting systems makes each Monkey Board endlessly customizable. Instead of fumbling for that loose pocket or backpacking gear, now you can just grab a Monkey Board and everything is readily accessible on your own customized Kydex pallet.
There are a few key items that can be carried into the wilderness that will keep you alive. These can include something to cut with, a way to start a fire, and a signaling device to communicate with loved ones or rescue workers. But why carry three different things when you could simply carry one? Outdoor enthusiast and mastermind behind Outdoor Element, Michael Mojica, has designed a knife that does just that. Tucked within this 6.3-inch, 3.2 ounce knife is a 115 dB survival whistle, a custom hex ferro rod, and a 1/4-inch hex driver. To get a stronger spark, the ferro rod can be screwed into a forward facing position, and the Kydex sheath has an integrated ceramic sharpener to keep a keen edge on the 2-inch VG10 steel blade. Each Contour Feather sheath has a heavy duty clip, and plenty of grommets to tie into place, or allow the blade to be worn as a neck knife. The Contour’s price is also nothing to sneeze at considering the versatility it brings to the table.
Moving firearms from one destination to another is sometimes easier said than done. With a multitude of government agencies issuing demands about how a firearm should be carried in any given situation, having a robust case that checks all the boxes is a must. Designed with modern firearms in mind, the Field Locker Element Tactical Gun Case is a heavy duty firearms transportation solution that can protect your platform from a barrage of elements. Interior dimensions are 44 by 15 by 6.4-inches, and two durable wheels are built into the exterior for ease of transportation. This TSA-approved case has a sealed exterior, protecting up to two firearms from harmful dust and moisture. On the inside, double density, customizable foam keeps your firearms immobilized, and the built in pressure equalizer prevents potential damage from dramatic atmospheric changes. Reinforced padlock gates keep the case secured and further protected from the elements when you’re on the go.
Proper footwear is something that is neglected far too often. And since most ambulatory people spend most of their time moving around on them, finding the right shoe for the right occasion is an important endeavor. However, not all shoes are created equal, and wearing something inappropriate for where you may be traveling on foot could lead to some serious injuries. If you’re feeling adventurous, Salewa’s Pedroc Powertex may be the shoe you need. This was designed specifically for fast hiking, and was built to keep your feet cool and protected for less technical speed-hiking and climbing applications. The rip-stop mesh upper is durable and resistant to scratching and tearing when moving over rocks or tough brush, and a Powertex membrane protects your feet from moisture while allowing them to breath. The Pedroc Powertex also integrates Salewa’s 3F system that connects the instep to the sole and heal, which provides extra stability when moving over uneven terrain.
In a world increasingly dominated by technology and predictable outcomes, the idea of getting back in touch with our primal roots, or being thrust into a life-or-death scenario, is both fascinating and terrifying. CarbonTV‘s show “DECIVILIZED” explores these concepts, and the inaugural episode “HOW NOT TO DIE” is an eye-opening introduction to the intense world of survival.
Laura Zerra: A Survivalist Like No Other
How Not To Die’s host is Laura Zerra, a world-renowned primitive survivalist who has spent an immense amount of time surviving in the wild. The episode’s title, “HOW NOT TO DIE,” is a bold statement that immediately captures attention. It’s not just about surviving in the wild; it’s about thriving and taking control of one’s life. Laura’s teachings are not limited to extreme survival scenarios but are applicable to any outdoor activity, encouraging viewers to think outside the box when the unexpected occurs. Her unique knowledge, self-education, and close-call experiences in the wild make her an authoritative figure in the field of survival. From building shelters and making fire to finding food and water, the episode covers essential survival skills that can be life-saving in emergency situations. Watch the video below to level up your own survival know-how:
Survival in a Technological World
Episode 1 takes the viewer on a journey into the wild, where predictable outcomes are replaced by raw instinct and adaptability. It’s a unique perspective in a world where technology often overshadows our connection to nature. Laura’s approach to survival is both educational and insightful. She doesn’t just demonstrate survival techniques, but explains the reasoning behind them, making the content easily understandable to both novices and seasoned outdoor enthusiasts.
More than just a survival guide, this episode is a call to action, challenging the viewer to take charge of their life, to embrace uncertainty, and to find strength in their primal instincts. It’s a message that resonates in a world where many feel disconnected from nature and their true selves.
Fresh Perspective on Survival
“HOW NOT TO DIE” is more than just a survival guide; it’s an important reminder that an outdoor experience can turn on a dime, and that it’s important to be ready for anything. Laura Zerra’s engaging teaching style and the episode’s blend of education, inspiration, and visual appeal, makes it a compelling watch. CarbonTV is the site to visit if you are interested in learning from more of Laura Zerra’s insights. You can also follow Laura on Instagram and Twitter (a.k.a. “X”).
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.
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.
