A Poor Man’s Guide to Knife Making

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There’s no doubt that every RECOIL OFFGRID reader understands the importance of a well-constructed knife. It’s arguably the most valuable tool in any survival kit. Whether out of love of the blade or an innate desire for self-sufficiency, many have considered putting their own hands to the forge only to be dissuaded by the expensive equipment and technical skills employed by modern-day bladesmiths.

In this step-by-step instructional article, we’ll guide you through the knife-making process from start to finish, using a stock removal method and basic hand tools. 

STEP 1: Select A Steel

The foundation of the knifemaking process is steel, so consider your options carefully. Choosing a steel that has the right balance between hardness, durability (toughness), and corrosion resistance can be challenging, especially when you’re working with limited resources and technology. Many of the steels you might find at the local salvage yard or hardware store are mild steels unsuitable for anything more than a prison shank, while the many “super steels” used in high-end cutlery must undergo hardening processes that require specialized equipment and extreme precision. It’s best to stick with basic, high-carbon steels like 1095 or 1075. Some tool steels like O1 are also relatively easy to work with. 

Knife Making steel

Whenever possible, you should purchase your steel from a reputable dealer that specializes in cutlery steels. This is the best way to make sure you’re getting correct and uniform materials. Plus, you can purchase the steel in the width and thickness you wish to work with, which will save you a lot of time and effort.

Mystery steel (any steel with unknown properties) should always be a last resort. In the event of a global meltdown or zombie apocalypse, a car leaf spring would be a fair gamble, especially in older models where 5160 or similar spring steels were commonly used, but with modern cars it’s still a crapshoot. Plus, repurposed steel, if not already flat, will require additional cutting, bending, twisting, and/or grinding to make it flat and usable.

STEP 2: Lay Out The Design

Once you’ve acquired your steel, the next step is to decide on the blade and handle design and then transfer that design onto the metal. 

Knife MakingAbove: An angle grinder is an inexpensive power tool that can help you make quick work of shaping your knife blank. Use a file to smooth and straighten your cut lines. Different sizes and shapes of files to fit different areas will make this process much easier.

The easiest way to do this is to sketch your design on a piece of cardstock or cardboard with a pencil. Once you’re happy with your design, cut out the design and then trace it onto your steel. You can use a steel layout fluid such as Dykem to coat the surface and trace around the template with a metal scribe, or you can simply use a black marker on the bare steel surface.

STEP 3: Shape Your Blank

Shaping the knife blank with minimal tools will be the most tedious step in the process. This can be done with nothing more than a hacksaw and a file, but it’ll take time and patience. If you can introduce an angle grinder or metal bandsaw into the mix, it’ll be much faster with less tendonitis. 

The process is the same regardless of the tools you’re able to work with. Use a saw or grinder to cut along the lines of your design. Once you get to tight spots like the finger grooves, make a V-shaped cut to remove as much material as possible. 

Once you’ve removed as much excess metal as possible, use a file to straighten your lines, round your corners, and remove everything else that isn’t a knife. It’s helpful to have a few different shapes and sizes of files so you can fit into those smaller grooves and odd-shaped crevices. 

Don’t forget to drill holes for your handle pins or cord wrap during this step of the process. It’s much easier to drill your holes prior to hardening the steel. 

STEP 4: Smooth & Surface 

Once you’ve finished shaping your knife blank, you’ll need to smooth everything out and make sure the surface of the knife is even. This can be done using anything from a power sander to a homemade sanding block. The objective here is to make everything nice and even so you can grind your bevels. 

Assuming you’re working with minimal tools, a sanding block made out of mild steel with a piece of leather glued to the bottom works very well. Simply cut a sheet of sandpaper a little wider than your knife and fold it over the leather side of the block near the end of the strip. Pinch the sandpaper between you thumbs and index fingers to hold it in place. As the grit wears down, you can slide a fresh portion of sandpaper into place and continue until the entire strip is worn out.

It’s recommended to start with 80-grit sandpaper for this step. Adding some WD-40 onto the sandpaper helps extend the paper’s life and makes hand-sanding much easier and cleaner. You can use a bench vise to hold the knife while working on the outer edges. Once you begin working on the flat surfaces, you can place a long, flat board inside your vise so it extends out from the workbench, then clamp the knife onto the board to hold it in place. The back side of the jig we’ll be discussing in the next section makes a great working surface.

STEP 5: Grind Your Bevels

Grinding the bevels into a knife is the most difficult task every knifemaker faces, whether they’re using a $4,000 knifemaking grinder or the most primitive tools. This author discovered a highly effective way to grind perfectly uniform bevels using a simple homemade jig. 

Jig Construction

To build the jig, you’ll need three 2-foot-long ¾-inch by 3½-inch boards, wood glue, four or five eye bolts of different lengths, two nuts for the eye bolts, and a long screw with tight threading to use as a stop screw. You’ll also need a table vise or other method to hold the jig in place when you start using it.

Knife Making

Using one of the boards as a base, glue and clamp the other two boards on top to form a “T” shape. Drill holes the size of your eye bolts down the center of the jig and holes the size of your stop screw down the center of the cross board. Use 1-inch spacing between the holes on both sections.

Knife Making jig

Using the Jig

To use the jig, begin by attaching a 2-foot metal rod to the back of a file with hose clamps. Insert a stop screw into one of the pre-drilled holes on the cross portion of the jig. The purpose of this screw is to create a consistent stopping point as you file your primary bevel. 

Next, determine where you want to set your plunge line (where the grind stops) and orient the knife so the desired plunge line lines up with the stop screw. Once you have the proper alignment, clamp the knife to the board.

Knife Making

Screw an eye bolt into one of the pre-drilled holes on the jig to set your grinding angle and use the two nuts to lock the bolt in place. The angle should be set steep enough to achieve about a 30-degree bevel. The longer the bolt and the closer it is to the knife, the greater the angle. 

Using the eye bolt to guide the file rod, grind down the bevel until you reach the midline of the edge, then repeat the process on the other side. Switch back to the original side and decrease the grind angle. File until the bevel reaches the desired height and blends with the original bevel, then repeat on the other side. You may have to make slight adjustments to your angle along the way until you reach the desired effect.

STEP 6: Heat Treating

This is a multistep process used to change the molecular alignment of steel particles to create a hardened edge that isn’t too brittle. The first step in this process is to heat the steel to a point where it temporarily loses its magnetic properties. The heating process can take place in a coal or gas forge, if available, but you can also make do with a propane or butane torch.

Knife Making

Heat the blade from the cutting edge up to at least the midline of the primary bevel. The heat should be applied until the steel reaches a cherry red color that’s even throughout. The heating point can be confirmed by touching a magnet against the heated portion to check for magnetism. If the heated portion of the steel doesn’t pull toward the magnet, then the critical temperature has been reached and the blade is ready to be cooled using a quenching solution. After performing a magnet check, be sure to apply additional heat to regain the temperature you just lost prior to quenching.

Knife Making

Dip the blade into the quench as rapidly as possible after removing the heat source. Be sure to move the blade back and forth so it cools evenly. Remove the blade and check the hardness with a file to make sure the quench was effective. The file should skate off the edge if the steel is hard.

Knife Making

The purpose of the quench is to cool the steel rapidly and force the rearrangement of atomic positions to produce martensite, which is an exceptionally hard phase of steel. Martensite is very brittle, so it’s necessary to modify the mechanical properties by heat treating at a lower temperature range for an extended period of time, a process known as tempering. 

Once the metal cools to the touch, place it in the oven for one hour at 400 degrees F (temperature can vary depending on the steel). Remove the knife and allow it to cool, then repeat the process for one additional cycle. 

STEP 7: Resurface

After heat treating the blade, you’ll need to remove the fire scale and carbon deposits from the surface. This is basically a repeat of Step 4, so there’s no need to describe the process in detail. The amount of resurfacing you do is based on personal preference and how rough or polished you want the final product to be. 

Knife Making

STEP 8: Add Handles/Wrap

Since handle-making and wrapping can itself be an art form, we won’t go into detail here. A simple paracord wrap is the easiest method to start with. Wrap the cord around the top of the handle once, then cross and twist the cord each time the ends meet until the entire tang is covered. When you reach the end, feed the cord through the lanyard hole on the bottom and tie a knot on the other side. Cut and melt the ends of the cord to secure the knot.

Knife Making

STEP 9: Sharpen

The final step is to sharpen your blade. Depending on the thickness of your primary bevel, it may take some time to form a secondary bevel resulting in a cutting edge. Sharpening can be done using stones or mechanical sharpeners. The more consistent the angle, the finer the edge will be. For a polished, razor-sharp edge, work in stages and finish by running the edge backward along a leather strop. It’s possible to improvise a strop from an old leather belt — look for one with a natural, suede-like inner surface — treated with automotive polishing compound or toothpaste.

Knife Making

Conclusion

The art and science of metalworking can take a lifetime to master, but it doesn’t have to be a difficult arena to enter. No matter if you’re motivated by the survivalist’s code of self-reliance or a desire for artistic expression, the information presented here — though it only scratches the surface — is enough to get you started without breaking the bank. 

Check Out the book DIY Guns: RECOIL's Guide to Homebuilt Suppressors, 80 Percent Lowers, Rifle Mods, and More.

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IFAK vs Portable Medical Kit: Scaling Medical Gear

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Battlefield medicine has made leaps and bounds through improved infrastructure and a near-universal deployment of the IFAK or Individual First Aid Kit.  As a result some lessons can be taken when considering both the rising civil unrest in cities like Minneapolis, as well as remaining prepared during more peaceful times. By taking an approach similar to our article on Layering Your EDC Survival Gear, we can divide our Medical Gear into four layers: Personal EDC, Kit-Mounted, Vehicle-borne, and Home base.

Foundational Considerations

Considering that most of us don't have the same medical infrastructure as the military or a hospital's resources at our disposal, we must take elements of what they have taught us, and apply it in the context of our daily lives. Similar to our article on the Tactical and Survival Application of Body Armor, we began by recognizing that Plate Carriers are for a world with Hospitals. Access to a medical facility will have an influence on how we set up each layer of medical preparedness.

old IFAK Above: These older IFAKs come from a time before a smaller, slimmer kit was in vogue.

In our modern environment, what separates an emergency kit from long-term sustainment is access to professional medical treatment. We may be able to prevent a gunshot wound from becoming fatal, but our objective will still be to get the wounded to a hospital. If there is no access to medical facilities, the situation is much more dire. However, we can begin from the known and expand further.

In a past life, Ranger First Responder training taught the acronym M.A.R.C.H. Each letter stood for a different type of injury, and established a hierarchy of greatest immediate threat, descending to long-term care. Broken down, M.A.R.C.H. stood for:

M: Massive Hemoraging/Bleeding
A: Airway
R: Respiratory
C: Circulation
H: Head Trauma/Heat Injury

This acronym is one of many used for emergency medical responses, and the importance of training cannot be overstated. Without spending time with these tools in your hands, their value is greatly diminished, and in the brief moments when an emergency medical response is needed, the additional confidence and skill impact more than the possibilities of life and death, but the emotional aftermath.

Esstac DST Medical PouchThe EssTac DST Medical Pouch features a tear-away main storage container, so the wearer doesn't have to remove their belt to get at their IFAK. 

The important element to take away from M.A.R.C.H. today is that they represent different types of life-threatening injuries where time is of the essence. While we can leave the order of treatment to another time, we can address what different levels of an IFAK should, and could contain.

Personal, Kit, Vehicle, Home

The four categories we've chosen: Personal EDC, Kit-Mounted, Vehicle-borne, and Home can integrate into one another, are best thought of as a physical representation of a Venn Diagram: their contents overlap often, with each tailored toward a situationally specific direction.

Personal EDC

Two elements dictate what and someone's Personal EDC will contain: what they need, and what they're comfortable carrying. Needs are a given and typically prescribed by a doctor. Comfort, however, is where one must seriously pick and choose, as the primary limitation of EDC gear is space.

With all the attention paid to defensive tools such as knives and handguns, it's natural that we turn to medical gear as a close second. A tourniquet handy can quickly save a life, from witnessing a motorcycle wreck to an active shooter, to improvising a splint in the wilderness, it has more uses than simply stopping major bleeding.

A TQ can be easily kept in a bag, carried in a pocket, or stored in a holder. However as not all wardrobes will facilitate these options, a serious consideration of fitting into one's environment comes into play. Dressing for galas is rarely a daily occurrence, and the homeless look works in some urban environments, but little stands out more than a person trying too hard to conceal something that they should have kept off-body.

Various EDC medical kits have tried to remedy this: from self-contained wallet-sized packages, to ankle kits, and a few more. Ultimately it is up to the individual to make the choice about what they carry and pay the consequences for it.

Kit-Mounted

Inspired by the Military, adding an Individual First Aid Kit to one's plate carrier or shooting belt separates itself from their personal EDC in both tone and focus. Since it is connected to firearm-related gear, whether for practice or for protection, the focus of this IFAK is for conflict-induced injuries. This is the place to focus on gunshot wounds and lacerations.

GBRS Group Belt with Blue Force Gear Micro Trauma Kit NOW IFAK

Massive Hemoraging: Tourniquets, Pressure Dressings, Gauze Bandages, and Clotting Agent.
Airway: Nasopharyngeal Airway
Respiratory: Chest Seals of some type. Only carry a Decompression Needle if trained in its use.
Circulation: While Combat Medics will likely be concerned with maintaining enough blood pressure to keep the blood flowing during an emergency, this is the opportunity to cover smaller wounds. Consider the value of carrying an IV starter kit without maintaining access to IV solution.
Head Trauma and Heat Injury: For those in cold climates, a micro space blanket will go a long way in the event of injury.

Additional Considerations: Non-Latex Gloves, a CPR Mask, combat shears, additional tourniquets, disinfectant, over-the-counter pain killers, sharpie and laminated card to write details on.

Ferro concepts forward Observations Roll 1 Pouch IFAK S&S Precision PlateFrame-ModularAbove: The Ferro Concepts x Forward Observations Roll 1 trauma pouch can replace a belt-mounted IFAK, or be used as supplemental storage. Utilizing the space between the plate carrier and the belt line, it also provides additional lumbar support, especially when riding in a vehicle. 

A little goes a long way when it comes to kit-mounted medical gear. The primary focus of an IFAK is to meet the needs of the wearer. Whether for self-care or to treat another person, the objective is in the title: Individual First Aid Kit.

At least annual maintenance should be performed on a belt-mounted IFAK. Whether it rarely sees use, or if the range is a frequent occasion, the contents will degrade over time. Set a date, and stick to it.

Vehicle-borne

A vehicle-borne portable medical kit is built primarily for a mass casualty situation, where multiple people might need treatment, with the possibility that some might need transportation to a hospital. According to military terms, mass-casualty typically refers to when at least 10% of the force is killed or wounded, but for survival and private citizen considerations, it informs a vehicle kit to focus on treating more than one person.

vehicle portable medical kit tactical tailor Above: The Tactical Tailor First Responder Bag fits into a wheelwell, and can be quickly strapped on as a Fanny Pack or a sling-bag. 

With special considerations for things like car accidents, a vehicle-portable medical kit will contain many of the same things as an IFAK. However, it should be understood as more than just a larger version of a personal medical kit. Seasonal appropriate inclusions, like winter clothes, or regional necessities, such as additional water define the focus of this kind of kit.

Larger fanny-pack or sling bag style bags such as the Tactical Tailor First Responder Bag easily store in a vehicle, taking up little enough space to have a dedicated location.

Home Base

If this type of portable medical kit could have another name, it would call itself family emergency first aid. Heavily dependent on the number of people in your household, the political and natural environment, and the emergency plans one has in place, the largest of options doesn't need to be as portable, so long as it's purpose is pre-determined. Is your family planning on bugging out in the event of an emergency? Do you live in a condo or a single-family home?

5.11 tactical rush12 home medical kitAbove: While it's capable of being used as an EDC pack, the 5.11 Tactical Rush12 backpack can carry a comprehensive medical kit, without getting too specialized, and is easily marked with patches. However, don't get trapped into thinking that emergency gear is equivalent with tactical equipment.

For those who live alone, the home kit should be the place where backup supplies are stored. That way, what doesn't make it into the IFAK can be kept in a centralized location, and serve as a resupply opportunity if something gets damaged or used. As its purpose is to treat emergencies, not everyday cuts and bruises, it should be kept separate than a household first-aid kit. There's nothing against keeping bandages in both the bathroom and the bug-out kit, but it would be a tragedy if the emergency supplies were raided and not replenished before an unexpected tragedy.

A spare backpack can easily accomplish the needs of family kit. The items in this kit prioritize long-term storage, and should have a dedicated storage location in the house: a coat closet by the front door, or hanging from a door to the basement.

The size of the bag comes down to personal preference and what training family members have received.

Putting It All Together

We began this article on portable medical kits with the understanding that we will not have the infrastructure and supply line capabilities of a hospital or military unit. That spirit continues in not only how one layers their IFAK with other medical gear, but also how they go about acquiring it. With companies like North American Rescue, Guerilla Tactical, and Live the Creed providing full medical kits for what might go on your battle belt, plate carrier, or chest rig, the best approach to the next layers: vehicle-borne, and home base supply, is to remain methodical.

For example, a single pack can serve as both the vehicle portable medical kit and home base supply, doubling duties by having a designated storage location in a vehicle that is typically parked, unlocked, in an attached garage. Folded Gauze, pressure dressings, and tourniquets are often sold in packs, ready to be distributed across a growing system.

The primary objective of layering emergency medical quipment is to be able to scale one's response to a changing scenario. Since it is impossible to create a single kit that works for every situation, each step up: from IFAK to Vehicle Kit, recognizes the known and likely hazards that one could face. By tailoring each layer to the known and likely scenarios one could face, they improve their position at each level.

Gear Shown

Blue Force Gear Micro Trauma Kit NOW!
Colors: Black, Coyote Brown, OD Green, Wolf Grey, Multicam
Option To Come Stocked? Yes
MSRP: $73 Empty, $110 with Essentials Kit, $140 with Pro Kit, $200 with Advanced Kit
URL: www.blueforcegear.com

Esstac DST Medical Pouch
Colors: Black, Ranger Green, Coyote Brown, Wolf Grey, Tan 499, OD Green, Kryptek Typhoon, Kryptek Highlander, Multicam, Multicam Black, Multicam Tropic, Multicam Arid, M81 Woodland, Woodland Marshal, Desert Marshal
Option To Come Stocked? No
MSRP: $50
URL: esstac.com

Tactical Tailor First Responder Bag
Colors: Black, OD Green, Ranger Green, Coyote Brown, Multicam
Option To Come Stocked? No
MSRP: $110
URL: tacticaltailor.com

5.11 Tactical Rush12 2.0 Backpack
Colors: Black, Grey, Tan, Ranger Green
MSRP: $100
URL: 511tactical.com

Ferro Concepts x Forward Observations Roll 1
Colors: Multicam, Ragnar Green, Black, Tan, Wolf Grey
MSRP: $85
URL: www.forwardobservations.com

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Bag Loadout: Urban Communications Kit

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As an electrical contractor with an interest in emergency preparedness, I’ve realized that there are a variety of events that could interfere with our normal communications infrastructure — if the internet and cell service go down, things can get chaotic quickly. If there’s total loss of power, it’s only going to get worse. As a result, I carry a kit that allows me to bypass these mainstream systems, and still stay in touch with those I care about. 

The Backpack

Make and Model: Vertx Communter Sling 2.0
MSRP: $199
URL: www.vertx.com

Bag Drop vertx commuter sling 2 communications rig

I’ve carried $400 GoRucks, $100 REI bags, and a variety of CamelBaks on various adventures. You really have to try them all to get a sense of what feels good on your back. There seem to be two schools of thought regarding backpack choice — one group will remove their pack to go through the contents; the other will leave it attached to the shoulder while rummaging through it. The messenger-style backpack has some tactical advantages, since it leaves a smaller window of opportunity for a bag-snatcher and can give you better access to important items on the move.

This Vertx Commuter Sling 2.0 works exactly as designed. It has a rather large “Rapid Access” main storage compartment for a variety of tools. Whether it’s a foldable rifle that requires a sling attachment point or your favorite handgun, the attachment possibilities are endless with the mounting systems Vertx offers. It also comes with retention G-hooks to prevent the bag from flopping open completely while surveying your environment. Its ballistic panel pocket easily accepts lightweight plates to give you a valuable layer of protection from projectiles and shrapnel flying in your direction.

This bag doesn’t scream “tactical,” so if you’re trying to stay under the radar, it could be a great choice over some of the military-style bags out there. 

Communication Equipment

GoTenna is a mesh network that can allow multiple devices to connect and chat offline. It offers a means of communicating silently within a small geographical area if there’s no cellular or Wi-Fi service available (range will depend on the number of wireless devices in your vicinity).

Another alternative using the same LoRa Mesh technology is a stand-alone homebuilt communicator. This requires technical knowledge and soldering skills, but it’s a stand-alone unit that doesn’t require an Android/iPhone for communication. If placed in a familiar location, multiple devices can be linked to a repeater. A well-placed single repeater could potentially give you 10 miles of range. Buildings and trees obviously diminish these results. A “post office box” setting in this unit can save messages for when your device is in range. 

bag drop communications kit radios and dfndr plate

A Baofeng ham radio is an excellent affordable device that’s capable of communicating with other licensed ham radio operators within a decent range. They’re also limited by terrain, and only travel from one to 10 miles under normal conditions. Maxing out at around 30 miles under ideal conditions would require a longer antenna and clear line of sight. It’d be a great portable way to communicate with someone in the event cell service wasn’t an option — better yet, they’re cheap enough that you can buy several for your family members and friends. If you need to extend that range to hundreds of miles, you need a high-powered, high-frequency (HF) radio and a general license. 

The HackRF Portapack has a ton of features ranging from listening to/broadcasting a radio station, remote-starting your neighbor’s car on a chilly morning for him, replacing a lost garage door opener, or chatting with a freight ship captain as he’s coming into port. Although some features can be considered “nefarious” in nature, the all-in-one package is a very robust tool that can potentially reprogram traffic lights in your neighborhood or enable the restaurant buzzer to skip the long wait at your favorite diner. Use your powers responsibly and don’t blame us if you get in trouble.

A Pirate Box is a small device that can broadcast your own LAN (Local Area Network). This can be a source to host a localized off-grid chat, share files, act as a “dead-drop” for digital information, or even provide an easy solution for an off-grid wireless camera setup. If you’re tech-savvy, you can make one at home with less than $100 in materials, or you can purchase them pre-built.

Portable Power

Portable battery packs are vital to both power and recharge all the electronics discussed above. Mophie Powerstations have a track record of holding up to abuse. Extreme changes in climate and multiple charge/recharge events naturally wear out battery cells. Cheaper alternatives don’t handle the wear and tear as well as some of the better brands, so do your research and get the most dependable unit you can afford. 

18650 or Lithium-ion (Li-on) batteries pack a greater punch for some sensitive electronics, however, they have been known to spontaneously combust and can get you unwanted attention at TSA checkpoints. Keeping them safe and understanding their dangers is essential if you'll be using them for your equipment. 

bag drop communications kit batteries

The CR123 batteries used in SureFire flashlights fall under the same category. Regular alkaline or nickel-metal hydride AA batteries just can’t produce the power needed, and most rechargeable options tend to fizzle out rather quickly. Having a spare set of each type of disposable batteries in your bag is a requirement.

Solar chargers can be bulky and often don’t perform as needed, but if you’re in a pinch and all your resources are empty, an affordable foldup can serve as a last-ditch option for emergency power. Always keep a USB wall charger in your kit to borrow power from coffee shops and other local watering holes.

Having plenty of spare cables, both USB-C and Micro USB, can lead to tangles and clutter. Keeping them individually tied will help keep you organized and better prepared. 

Medical

Being prepared for a fight is an automatic ticket to the “prepare to seal wounds” after-party. Tourniquets, chest seals, chito gauze, decompression needles, and Hello Kitty Band-Aids will take up very little room and invaluable space for any “What If” scenarios you may encounter. With the items contained in this pack and the everyday-carry gear in my pockets, I feel confident that I can weather any storm without being dependent on the power grid or established comms infrastructure.

Bag drop communications kit medical gear

For more info on the items in my kit, you can follow me on Instagram: @socal_offgrid. 

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NFC Tag: A Close Look at Near Field Communication Technology

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Sticky notes provide a quick and easy way to write down snippets of important information — phone numbers, addresses, appointments, website URLs, and so on. But these colorful scraps of paper are low-tech tools in a high-tech world. With an NFC Tag Reader, storing vital information discreteley goes digital. 

If you could design a modernized Version 2.0 of a sticky note, what characteristics would it have? It might be more durable, and water-resistant so it won’t become illegible if it gets wet. Maybe it’d be smaller, but with the capacity to store more text. Most importantly, the data it contains — letters and numbers are a form of data, after all — should be easy to access at a moment’s notice. These “advanced sticky notes” might incorporate some technology, but they shouldn’t rely on access to the internet or the power grid. And for the security-conscious user, these notes should be concealable in discreet locations and should offer optional password-protection to deter prying eyes.

nfc tag Above: NFC tags are available in many forms, including paper-thin, flexible, weatherproof stickers.
They can remain readable for more than a decade.

Near Field Communication or NFC tags serve as a compact, concealable, and versatile means of storing small amounts of data. Think of them as digital sticky notes — they can be bought by the dozen for a few bucks, programmed instantly with a smartphone app, and placed almost anywhere.

What is NFC?

Near Field Communication is a radio communication standard similar to Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or RFID, but as its name indicates, it’s intended for extremely short range. NFC devices transmit on the 13.56 MHz frequency over a maximum distance of about 4 inches. NFC’s most common use is for contactless payment systems, which allow a chip in your credit card or smartphone to wirelessly transmit payment information to a nearby point-of-sale terminal. NFC tech can be used for countless other purposes, which we’ll discuss more below.

What is an NFC Tag?

An NFC tag is a tiny wireless device that contains a small amount of memory, a radio chip, and an antenna. NFC tags don’t contain a battery; they draw the minuscule amount of power they need from the reader (e.g., your smartphone) via magnetic induction. They’re typically about the diameter of a quarter and can be fully encased in waterproof polymer or attached to a paper-thin, flexible sticker. Many colors and designs are available, and users can write on plain tags with a permanent marker. Most modern NFC tags are rewriteable, so they can be used over and over for decades. It’s also possible to lock tags in “read only” mode so they can no longer be edited. Some NFC tags support optional passwords and/or encryption to enhance security.

nfc tag stackAbove: We purchased a pack of 20 NFC tag stickers online for $15 shipped.
Buy from a reputable seller to ensure you’re getting current-generation, reliable tags.

There are myriad NFC tag variants, each with different storage capacities, transfer speeds, features, and price points. For the purposes of this article, we bought a small pack of 20 NFC tag stickers from Amazon for $15 including overnight shipping. They’re based on the NTAG216 chip and offer 888 bytes of usable memory. This chip is rated for 10 years of data retention and 100,000 read/write cycles.

How Do I Read and Write Tags?

Thanks to the prevalence of contactless payment systems like Google Pay and Apple Pay, most modern smartphones contain NFC hardware. To check if your phone is NFC-compatible, refer to the running list on Wikipedia.

nfc tag quarters on a computer

If your phone supports NFC, you’ll just need to confirm that the appropriate setting is enabled and download an NFC reader app. For this article, we used an iPhone 11 and installed a free app called NFC Tools. The app makes it simple to read, write, erase, password-protect, and lock tags.

In addition to manually programming tags with text or other data, you can use automation apps to link your NFC tags to specific actions — set an alarm, send a text message, navigate to a destination, etc. On iPhones this is included in the built-in Shortcuts app; for Android phones, you can download a third-party automation app such as Tasker. See this sidebar for more details on NFC tag automation:

Automating Tasks with NFC Tags

As we mentioned earlier, NFC tags can be used in conjunction with automation apps to trigger complex sequences of actions. For example, let’s say an emergency has occurred and you need to send text messages to each member of your family, start the navigation app on your phone to check traffic conditions, dim the screen to conserve battery, and turn on do-not-disturb mode for any incoming calls outside your inner circle. These tasks could be completed by swiping your phone over a “SHTF” tag that does it all instantly.

nfc tag reader automation

If you’ve already integrated “smart home” features into your house, you could tie these into your NFC tag automation sequence. Remotely turn on the lights, crank up the volume on the TV, and activate your security system to convince potential intruders to pick a different house. Lock your computer or go full scorched-earth and wipe the hard drives. Activate a string of Wi-Fi-enabled Christmas lights that could hypothetically be wired into various booby traps (for legal reasons, that’s a joke). The sky’s the limit.

On a more practical note, NFC tags are great for saving time on simple daily tasks. Slap one on your washing machine to start a timer that alerts you when clothes are done. Put one in the phone cradle in your car that pairs the Bluetooth and starts a music playlist. Place one in a medication bottle that tracks each time you take a pill and activates a reminder if you forget to do so.

The catch is that the instructions for these automation sequences are stored on your phone, not on the tag. That means it won’t work with someone else’s device unless you apply the same settings in advance.

Uses for NFC Tags

Now that we’ve got the technical details out of the way, we can move on to the fun stuff.

As we mentioned above, NFC tags have only a small amount of memory. Our NTAG216 chip can store 852 characters of plain text. It’s possible to find non-standard NFC tags that can store several times that amount, but these will be much more costly and potentially unreliable with certain readers. Thankfully, there’s still a lot we can do with this limited space. Read on for a few noteworthy examples.

nfc tag storage blackAbove: We chose discreet black stickers, but tags can be found in a variety of colors and designs.
You can even mark tags with a Sharpie to denote their functions.

Store Emergency Information
Here’s a straightforward one that harkens back to our sticky note analogy. A tag can be programmed with emergency contact phone numbers, addresses, or coordinates for a bug-out location. In the event that you lose your wallet, you might store your driver’s license number and insurance info on a tag in your vehicle. If you need to stash some money discreetly, you could put funds on a prepaid debit card, save the info on your NFC tag, and shred the physical card. The same technique could be used for an emergency prepaid phone card. Of course, take precautions to ensure this information doesn’t fall into the wrong hands — conceal the tag, add a password, or both.

Show Proof of Ownership
If you’re looking to prove you own a piece of valuable property, you could attach a label with your name and address, but that’s easy to remove and poses some privacy concerns if it falls into the wrong hands. A hidden NFC tag containing the same information will be just as effective but much harder for thieves to notice.

Link to a File or Website
Although NFC tags don’t have much local storage capacity, they can certainly provide a link to data that’s hosted elsewhere. This can be used to save someone the trouble of typing in a website URL, or it can provide a private link to download files. Those files could be encrypted, turning the NFC tag into a digital key that unlocks a huge archive of sensitive documents cached online.

nfc tag storing a password

Store a Password
When you go on vacation, you might hide a key in a secure spot in case a trusted friend or neighbor needs to enter the house in an emergency. NFC tags can be used in a similar fashion to store passwords in an innocuous place. This way, you can tell the house-sitter to hold their phone up to a specific picture frame in the hall to instantly retrieve a gun safe code or security system override code.

In less dire circumstances, it’s a good way to share your Wi-Fi password with visitors without repeatedly explaining the spelling and capitalization.

Dead Drops
In Issue 37, Tom Marshall explained the Cold War spycraft technique known as a dead drop. This involves two parties covertly exchanging information without making direct contact. For example, one agent would leave a note in a hidden location and give a predetermined sign that a drop was ready — a chalk mark on a mailbox or a piece of tape in the corner of a window. A second agent would see the sign and retrieve the drop.

Large amounts of digital information might require a USB drive loaded with files, but this can be risky, since anyone who sees it will know it contains data. On the other hand, most people would never guess that an NFC tag contains data, much less consider how to retrieve it. It’d be easy to write a few sentences onto a tag and stick it inside a book jacket, onto the underside of a bench, behind a car’s fuel door, or in thousands of other creative locations. The recipient would only need to scan the tag from a few inches away and could rewrite a response without leaving so much as a fingerprint.

For added security, apply a password, encrypt the tag, or encode the message itself with a cipher.

nfc tag reader and writer toolAbove: We used this free NFC Tools app on an iPhone to read, write, and modify our tags. It also showed us the tag’s type, capacity, and features.

Nearly Infinite Possibilities

Much like the ubiquitous sticky note, NFC tags are nothing more than repositories for small amounts of information. You can write anything you wish onto them, from a simple phone number to an encryption key that unlocks every one of your digital assets. Despite their relatively small capacity and short range, they’re incredibly versatile, especially when they’re paired with automation apps that can control your smartphone or home appliances. Pick up a few and start experimenting — you’ll be surprised by all you can accomplish with a single swipe. 

More on CyberSecurity and Discreet Communication

Book Review: A Burglar’s Guide to the City, by Geoff Manaugh

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The Premise: How do burglars look at a city and decide what their next target should be? How do burglars manage to pull off large heists of bank vaults and seemingly get away unnoticed? Geoff Manaugh takes the approach that burglary is highly influenced by urban planning and architecture. As he puts it: “How humans can take advantage of the built environment’s spatial opportunities for crime.” Through countless interviews with people involved in burglary, on both sides of the law, and some obvious painstaking research, Manaugh lays bare the tales of some notorious burglaries as he paints a picture of how weak spots are often exploited.

The 411: The book starts off with reference to one of New York City’s most successful burglars, George Leonidas Leslie, in 1869. If you’ve ever watched Ocean’s Eleven, The Inside Man, The Italian Job, or The Thomas Crown Affair, and thought that there’s no way some gang of crooks would go to the effort of constructing a replica of the place they were going to steal from, tunneling into a bank vault, or having an elaborate ruse to misdirect the onlookers, think again. Snippets of real-life heists have been interwoven into numerous popular movies. Shimmying through a pet door? Check. Climbing through a dumbwaiter chute? Check. Crawling through the air ducts? Check. Long lost secret tunnels that are rediscovered? Check.

Burglars of this sort are able to think spatially. That is, they understand that a location can be navigated in unconventional ways, whether it’s coming in through the ceiling, breaking through some sheetrock of an inexpensively manufactured business, or working their way up through water tunnels on ATVs and chipping through a few feet of concrete to get into a bank vault, they can see the not-so-obvious way into their target to purloin whatever valuables they desire.

Manaugh even delves into the “good burglars,” such as in the secret world of legal burglary done by the CIA, FBI, and local police to plant eavesdropping equipment in an attempt to catch a spy, terrorist, or organized crime suspect. And then there’s groups, such as the lockpicking enthusiasts trying to save the Locks of Love left on bridges around the world. Manaugh talks about how he accompanied a group of well-meaning people onto the Brooklyn Bridge, for a kind of anti-graffiti gesture, to remove illicitly placed locks and help slow the corrosion they cause to this landmark. 

Of course, this research isn’t complete without a discussion about the specific tools and techniques burglars use. Sections discuss lockpicking in its many varied forms, then the specifics about lockpicking tools and the materials they’re made from, whether it’s a commercially manufactured tool set, a homemade tool from just the right kind of springy steel, or perhaps that shiny metal bristle left behind by the street sweeper. “Street-cleaning bristles, broomsticks, electrical tape, liquid polystyrene: in the right hands, everyday items have an unexpected secondary function, able to become something like skeleton keys with which we can gain entrance to any building or thwart the world’s most sophisticated security systems. The dark promise here is that if only you can assemble the right tools in the right combination, you’ll find yourself holding keys to everything around you.” (Chapter 4, Page 161).

A burlgar's guide to the city by geoff Manaugh 

As the author explains, the very makeup of a city, the layout of its streets and infrastructure, play a role in crime. Does easy-on and easy-off access to a major highway indicate that burglary is more likely in that part of a city? What about a darkened alleyway? Will closed-circuit TV cameras stop or even deter a thief? Or are these cameras easily manipulated and overcome by professional burglars intent on getting access to somebody else’s valuables?

The Verdict: Manaugh has really done his research. The book includes 16 pages of small font text with his references. There are many stories in his book that I’m familiar with, even without checking his references. My days as a NYC detective taught me many burglary skills and techniques from skilled veterans, on both sides of the law, and Manaugh not only touched on many of those, but several others I had only heard about in passing. There are many movie heists mentioned in this book, which brings an extra air of familiarity to the tales, and the first-person stories relayed by the author kept me engaged. If you’re looking for a disquisition on burglary in its many forms, this book is a good read. 

The Burglar's Guide to the City by Geoff Manaugh

Publisher: Farrarr Straus and Giroux
MSRP: $17
URL: www.burglarsguide.com
Pages: 296
Rating:
   Thrive
   Survive
   Die

OFFGRID LIBRARY OF RECOMMENDED READING

 

Scaly Supper: An Overview to Hunting Reptiles

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Maybe you’re a survivalist who fantasizes about retreating into nature and living off the land after civilization collapses, or perhaps you’re a hard-core camper who prefers to exist in the outdoors even before doomsday has come. Maybe you’ve stumbled across this article, and now your curiosity has been piqued as to how to survive in the wild. This guide will teach you the dos (and importantly, the donts) of hunting reptiles in the wild — which reptiles to hunt, which to avoid, how to identify and catch them, and finally, how to cook them. For anyone who sees lunches of lizards or suppers of snakes in their future, this article is essential.

Warning!

This article is meant to be a general overview and not a detailed guide on eating reptiles and amphibians. Always check all local game regulations before attempting to hunt reptiles or amphibians and work with an experienced herpetologist before attempting to prepare any for consumption. 

Which Reptiles Should You Hunt?

Lizards: If you’re traveling in the Southern Hemisphere, you’ll need to steer clear from certain venomous species of lizard; in the United States, the only one to be aware of is the Gila monster. All other lizards native to the U.S., in theory, are safe to eat. Certainly, there’s a risk of bacteria and parasites, which we’ll discuss in more detail in the section on how to cook reptiles.

Most lizards you’ll encounter are relatively small and won’t offer a great deal of meat. You’ll need to hunt for many of them in order to get your fill. This isn’t the most efficient strategy, since lizards tend to be quick and agile, making them difficult to trap or spear. Beggars certainly can’t be choosers for those living off the land, but if you have the option, you’re likely to have better luck with other species. 

cooking reptilesAbove: Be sure to cook wild reptile meat thoroughly to avoid the misery induced by diseases such as salmonella.

Snakes: So long as you cut off the head, you won’t be at risk for ingesting snake venom. However, it’s best to stay away from the venomous species (cottonmouths, copperheads, coral snakes, and rattlesnakes, in the U.S.), because of the risks of getting bit while trying to hunt them. 

If you’re a reptile-lover, you may find it difficult to kill a snake that looks like one you’ve had as a pet. Many pet snakes aren’t native to the U.S., and you won’t encounter them in the wild, but if you keep snakes at home, think about whether you’d be willing to hunt an animal that slithers around like your beloved pet!

Turtles: Turtles are some of the easiest reptiles to hunt because they’re so slow-moving and can’t easily dart away from you like a lizard. Certain species of turtles, notably box turtles, subsist on diets of mushrooms, which may include fungi that are poisonous to humans. When you eat the turtle, you also are ingesting whatever they’ve eaten, which could be harmful to your health. 

One of the most common turtles you’ll find in North America that you can safely eat is the snapping turtle. The risks come with catching it — be sure to handle from behind the neck and the tail, where your hands will be out of reach of its sharp teeth.

Which Reptiles Should You Not Hunt?

Crocodiles and alligators: In some parts of the country, alligator meat is considered a delicacy and even a superfood, with its high protein content and relatively low fat. However, this doesn’t mean you should attempt to hunt down one of these beasts in the wild for your dinner. 

Commercial alligator meat is legally sourced from alligator farms, and hunting these reptiles is only legal in a handful of states, including Florida and Texas, in which you may need a special license or permit (wlf.louisiana.gov/page/alligator-hunting). In the United States, it’s illegal to hunt crocodiles, and you can face serious fines if caught.

Both alligators and crocodiles can be aggressive, and if you’re not certain of how to deal with them and are without the right weapons, you can find yourself in serious trouble. If you value your limbs and don’t have prior experience, steer clear of hunting these reptiles. 

What About Frogs?

Although frogs are often thought of as similar creatures to snakes, lizards, and turtles, frogs and toads actually belong to the amphibian class. In the United States, most species of frogs are safe to eat, but as a general rule, stay away from any with brightly colored skin — this coloring serves as a warning that they’re poisonous. 

You may have heard of people eating frog legs as a cultural delicacy, but you’d be better off hunting reptiles in the wild, for a simple reason: You’d have to catch a whole lot of wild frogs to get enough protein for your meal.

How to Identify Reptiles

There’s no way we can detail how to identify every type of reptile you could encounter in the wild. You’ll want to do your own research outside of this article if you’re preparing to rough it in the wild. So, for the sake of space, we’ll only cover how to identify dangerous reptiles that you should stay away from. 

If you see a pit viper (ufwildlife.ifas.ufl.edu/venomous_snake_identification.shtml), you’re better off not trying to hunt it. These include cottonmouths, copperheads, and rattlesnakes. They can all be identified by their blocky triangular heads with clearly defined necks, cat-like eyes, and thick, large bodies. These species of snake are venomous, and while they can be eaten in a pinch, the risks of hunting them often outweigh the reward of snake meat. 

tasty meal cooking reptilesAbove: Fire-roasted snake made for a tasty meal, especially with the addition of a little habanero barbecue sauce.

We also mentioned that you should steer clear of box
turtles, because of their tendency to eat poisonous mushrooms. These terrapins (ufwildlife.ifas.ufl.edu/venomous_
snake_identification.shtml) can be identified by their high-domed, ridged carapaces that flare out at the edges, as well as distinctive brownish, yellow, and orange skin patterns. 

How to Hunt

The methods you’ll use to hunt will vary depending on what equipment you have available, but they largely will fall into two categories: hunting and trapping. 

The number-one thing to remember when hunting is to always be aware of your surroundings. Don’t be so focused on your prey that you don’t notice you’ve followed them to the edge of a precipice.

For hunting, there are many possibilities — you can use a firearm, bow, spear, slingshot, knife, or even a rock to bludgeon the reptile. 

To trap a reptile — this method works best with turtles and some snakes — you’ll dig a hole with steep sides that they won’t be able to climb out of. For bait, you can use any combination of vegetation, fungi, or insects, depending on the preferences of your prey. 

snakeskin saved hunting reptilesAbove: The snake’s skin and rattle were saved for future projects. Waste not, want not.

Here are five reptiles that are ideal for hunting in the wild:

Iguana: Green iguanas are an invasive species in Florida, and the state encourages residents to hunt them. In the Caribbean, they’re often referred to as “pollo de los árboles,” which translates to “chicken of the trees.” To see an iguana hunt in action, check out this RECOILtv episode where some of our staff hunted these large reptiles in Puerto Rico: https://videos.recoilweb.com/watch/channel/carnivore/tcZx22L0mHQ0-recoiltv-road-trips-iguana-hunting?q=iguana

Black rat snake: The black rat snake, also known as the Western rat snake or simply “black snake” is a great choice if you’re a novice at hunting reptiles. They’re harmless to humans and their long, thick bodies mean that you’ll get plenty of meat per animal.

Snapping turtle: Snapping turtles are large terrapins that can be found across the Eastern United States. Harvested professionally for food in some areas, these turtles make a hearty and protein-packed meal. Just watch your fingers and toes.

Argentine Black and White Tegu: Native to South America, these lizards are an invasive species in Georgia. They are the largest of the tegu lizards, growing to about 2 feet in length. 

Garter snake: Although garter snakes are relatively slender and won’t offer as much meat as their thicker counterparts, their advantage is that they’ve proliferated across the United States as one of the most common species of snakes in the country.

Red-eared slider: Red-eared sliders are the most popular species of turtle in the American pet trade; however, the nature of being widely held as pets means they’re frequently abandoned and have been classified as an invasive species in many states.

How to Eat

One of the big takeaways from this article should be the following: Always thoroughly cook any reptile meat that you’re going to eat.

Even if you’ve picked a nonvenomous and nonpoisonous species, any wild animal carries bacteria and parasites that can cause infection and illness if ingested. Reptiles especially are notorious for being carriers of salmonella bacteria. 

Salmonella lives in their digestive tracts, and you won’t be able to tell if they’re carrying the bacteria until it’s too late. Symptoms of salmonella include diarrhea, vomiting, and stomach cramps. However, there’s a simple step to take that will all but eliminate your risk of contracting salmonella from a reptile. 

hunting and cooking reptiles

Above: After cutting off the head, the meat was roasted by the campfire.

Cooking the reptile will kill these bacteria (pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19679367/) and leave you with a safer (and tastier) piece of meat. Additionally, be sure to wash your hands, cooking surface, and tools that have come in contact with raw reptile meat. 

If you’re in the wilderness eating reptiles, you probably don’t have access to your George Foreman grill. However, you don’t need any fancy equipment to safely cook your fresh meat. Boil the reptile in water to sanitize it, then roast over a fire to get the best sear. 

If you have a choice of ingredients available to make a more complete dish, you can’t go wrong with snake tacos or iguana stew. After you’ve finished your meal, be sure to dispose of any remnants (bones, skin, etc.) far away from your campsite. Leaving the discards from your dinner laying around can put you at risk of other scavengers coming by to feast on the scraps. By the same token, unwanted pieces of meat and organs can also be used as bait for fishing and trapping, turning your first meal into a second.

Summary

If you find yourself in the wilderness having to fend for yourself, you may want to start by seeking out more popular animals to eat, such as mammals and fish. However, if it comes down to it, many kinds of reptiles can also fill out a diet. 

Stick to the reptiles that are safe to hunt and eat, and make sure that you cook them properly before chowing down. Bon appétit! 

[Editor's Note: Photos by Patrick McCarthy.]

About the Author

Johnathan David is a fourth-generation reptile keeper and wildlife biologist. Learn more about him at www.everythingreptiles.com.

More on Cooking and Survival Food

IR Illuminator: Part of a Complete Night Raid

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There is a great difference between having access to night vision goggles and being truly night capable. When talking about armed preparedness, the next issue after getting night vision, is having one or more ways to aim your weapon when using them. Taller mounts for red dot sights and holographic optics, as well as infrared (IR) lasers, meet these requirements. But being fully setup for night-fighting doesn't even stop there. A deeper familiarization with night vision technology reveals the limits of its capability: it doesn't work in absolute darkness, and even under NVGs, there still are shadows to hide in. More than just an advantage, an IR Illuminator is necessary for those who seek to take maximum advantage of the darkness, so much so that those without it face a serious, if not final disadvantage.

What is an IR Illuminator?

In the most basic description, an IR illuminator is a flashlight that only uses light within the IR spectrum. Invisible to the naked eye, it can be seen only by optical tools that pick up the infrared side of the spectrum, such as security cameras and night vision goggles. They typically come in two forms: integrated into an IR laser/illuminator device such as an ATPIAL-C or in a stand-alone format, much like a weapon mounted light. 

Integrated

Military-style laser/illuminators dominate this market, by far, with representatives starting to pop up from Russia and beyond. These devices typically have the option to select what type and intensity of light is being emitted. The foundation of a laser/illuminator will focus on IR wavelength transmission, but some include features such as visible lasers, white (visible) light integration, and the option to use a pressure switch/tape switch for activation. Most laser/illuminators are designed for use on larger frame guns, such as AR-15's, but some handgun models are starting to become more common.

Zenitco Perst-3 IR illuminator

 

A key feature that an integrated IR illuminator will include, is the ability to “slave” the flood illumination to the laser: when one is on, so is the other. With one press of the activation switch, both the IR illuminator and laser turn on, providing both a point of aim, and a cone of illumination around it. Propper functioning models will allow the user to both adjust the aiming laser, and the IR illuminator. Some include the ability to adjust the throw of the illuminator as well, for focusing or diffusing the circle. 

Stand-Alone

In some cases, IR-capable laser devices are not equipped with an integrated IR Illuminator, or they could be damaged. Whether as a backup or as supplemental, some modern flashlights and weapon-mounted lights have the ability to be switched from white-light to IR by either rotating the bezel or engaging a toggle. While in most cases this is viewed as an alternative less desirable than an integrated option, there are examples (such as searching a woodline) that challenge the supremacy of integrated units.

Inforce WML White/ ir illuminator

Generally speaking, stand-alone IR illuminators have a wider, softer throw of light: the center of the beam is not as hot, and tends to be much wider with a softer edge. The advantage of this beam pattern comes to life in heavily vegetated environments, as the wider illumination provides more visible context in a shorter amount of time. In addition, it is less likely to reflect as intensely towards the user.

IR illuminator stand alone

Above: A Stand-Alone IR illuminator typically throws a pattern similar to a flashlight: less concentrated. Below: the IR Flood pattern on a PEQ-15/Atpial-C is much smaller, and more focused, but evenly distributes the “light” without hotspots.

IR illuminator integrated

Apart from the downside of having two buttons to press instead of a single laser/illuminator slaved combo, the crisp circle that an integrated unit typically projects helps in team activities, drawing attention to a specific object, person, or area. The more focused beam of an integrated unit is better for searching people at distance, especially as they produce an even amount of illumination across a target, rarely with hotspots, showing contours and helping to identify concealed weapons. With the more focused illumination, it reflects less on the foreground, providing the benefit of target discrimination, with the downside of further encouraging tunnel vision in addition to already looking through night vision goggles.

Getting Set Up

When setting up a firearm for use with NODs, one must be able to at least activate the laser and illuminator at the same time. This can be accomplished by either using an integrated unit such as a PEQ-15, BE Meyers MAWL, Perst-4, ATPIAL-C, L3 NGAL, or similar devices, or by attaching the illuminator in such a way that both can be activated simultaneously. For example, on an AR-15, two pressure switches placed next to each other can be pressed at the same time. Another option is to place an IR capable light, such as an INFORCE WML WHITE/IR, with its slanted tail switch directly in front of a remote pressure switch for a laser of some type. Finally, opposing activating buttons, on the 3- and 9-o'clock sections of a rail allow the user to “pinch” the whole rail for dual activation. There are also niche dedicated solutions like the TAPS or Hot Button from Unity Tactical.

Above: An Atpial-C has the same form factor as a PEQ-15, but without the same output.

Regardless of equipment and setup, significant practice adjusting and activating both must take place. In addition, the user must be able to replace the batteries of all equipment in the dark, as disaster waits for no man.

How to Use: More than Just a Flashlight Invisible to Most

The first rule of any night operations is light discipline: as much as the darkness can be used as an advantage, accidentally turning on your white light will beacon your location to anyone looking in that direction. In hostile environments, this can give away your position faster than carrying a torch. As more and more people, foreign and domestic, are acquiring night vision technology, this applies more and more to the IR spectrum as well.

Easily overlooked at first, the illuminator ranks as one of the most vital components of night activities. Capable of searching and area or designating to allies, as well as dissipating the shadows that remain in even a very-dimly-lit environment.

For example, when looking at a building from the outside, when all the internal lights have been turned off, even under night vision, darkness envelopes the interior rooms. An illuminator, if shined in through a window, even at a distance, allows the user to see into the building. In this case, an IR illuminator accomplishes what solo night vision cannot: truly seeing in otherwise absolute darkness.

IR Illuminator B&T APC9K

Depending on cloud cover, the phase of the moon, and the presence or lack of light pollution from nearby man-made structures, it is possible for an outdoor area to become so dark at night that it limits the usefulness of night vision on its own. Even on nights where the natural lume (ambient light) allows the wearer to see things such as buildings and treelines, they will be unable to see into them without the help of an illuminator. Since the primary advantage of night vision is to use darkness to one's advantage, without an IR illuminator the results are severely limited.

Just as with a laser, activating an IR illuminator must be restricted to when needed, and limited in use so as to avoid giving away one's position. When observed with a night vision camera, a laser will draw a straight line to the one holding it. In similar fashion, an IR illuminator works like a flashlight, which allows enemies to locate you as easily as allows you to locate them.

Combined with the limited field of vision that NVGs allow, this ability to make quick observations of one's environment, and mentally mapping them subconsciously to avoid obstacles like holes in the ground or low furniture is the hallmark of a skilled user. Further, while moving and continually scanning through their night vision, and limiting their use of their laser/illumanator except for when identifying threats, known and suspected, the wearer is more likely to maintain the element of surprise, especially in near-peer scenarios, such as force-on-force training.

MK18 EOtech ir illuminator

Above: The proliferation of taller optics risers can largely be credited to the concern of near-peer threats: hostile forces who are also night vision capable. The taller mount makes it easier to use one's Red Dot or Holographic as a method of aiming, even under NVG's. 

The ability to set the brightness of an IR illuminator, if your unit has that feature, comes into play when changing environments. For example, when entering and exiting a building. The confined environment reflects the illuminator's beam such that it could quickly blind out the wearer. Most modern laser/illuminator combinations have this option, but it is up to the user to be skilled in turning it down before entering a building. When in doubt, stay dimmer. Most stand-alone options do not have this option, but instead cast a more diffused beam to avoid blinding out the user's night vision devices as much as possible.

Less natural light = Lower intensity setting on your IR Illumination. 

IR Iluminator: Conclusion

Even if equipped with night vision goggles, and a laser aiming device, excluding an IR illuminator creates a significant disadvantage. It’s it best not to think of an IR illuminator as one more piece of kit to improve one's capabilities, but vital to the system as a whole. Without it, you can find yourself in places too dark even for night vision, or gain no advantage over anything that creeps in the shadows.

Zenitco Perst-3 IR illuminator

Those in the military are faced with different decisions than civilians who own night vision. Bound by various limitations such as cost and timing, a private citizen may have to take becoming night capable one step at a time, starting with NVGs, and not being able to acquire a light/laser combination, opt for a systematic acquisition over time. A Perst-4 laser, which has no illuminator, can be purchased for around $550-600, leaving plenty of room for an IR-capable weapon mounted light, all for nearly half the price of most integrated models.

Weighing the pros and cons of each approach, an integrated system will most often be the better option. When making a serious commitment to building true-night-capability into your preparedness plan, the cost of entry is high but the payoff is worth it. Whether for hunting, night exploration, or recreation, consider an IR illuminator mission-essential equipment.

Some IR Illuminators to Look At:

– INTEGRATED –

L3Harris ATPIAL-C
Dimensions: 4.6″(L) x 2.8″(W) x 1.6″(H)
Weight: 7.5 ounces with battery
Battery: One CR123A
Visible Option: Yes, Red Laser
MSRP: $1,350
URL: www.tnvc.com

– STAND ALONE –

Inforce WML White/IR – Gen 2
Dimensions:  4.25″(L) x 2″(W) x 1.25 (H)
Weight: 3.2 ounces with battery
Battery: One CR123A
Visible Option: Yes, 400 Lumen, 3,800 Candela White Light
MSRP: $140
URL: inforce-mil.com

Inforce WMLx White/IR – Gen 2
Dimensions:  5.25″(L) x 2″(W) x 1.25 (H)
Weight: 4 ounces with battery
Battery: Two CR123A
Visible Option: Yes, 700 Lumen, 6,000 Candela White Light
MSRP: $160
URL: inforce-mil.com

MORE ON NIGHT VISION, TACTICAL GEAR, AND FIREARMS

Rescue Whistles: Pocket Preps

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Whistles have developed a bad rap among survivalists, so we’d like to set the record straight. Some claim that only wimps carry these devices, since a truly prepared individual will be able to self-rescue in any scenario. Frankly, this is an ignorant viewpoint, and it seems most common among those who naïvely believe they’re infallible. In reality, there’s always a slim chance that Murphy’s Law will kick in and you’ll end up in a situation you can’t get yourself out of. If that happens, you should be able to make your whereabouts known to anyone in the area. Although calling in the cavalry should never be your primary plan for survival, it’s a necessary contingency for times when all else fails.

In Issue 37, we covered visual rescue signals such as flares, strobes, reflectors, and smoke. These tools are ideal for signaling over long distances — for example, to a helicopter overhead or a ship on the horizon. They’re also suitable for wide-open spaces. On the other hand, audible signals are most valuable at shorter range, especially when visibility is impaired. You might be stranded in a dense forest, stuck at the bottom of a deep ravine, concealed by darkness, or cloaked in a snowstorm. In any case, it’s a good idea to carry at least one of each type of signaling device when you venture off the beaten path.

Whistles are inexpensive, compact, and weigh next to nothing. They can be tucked into a pocket, attached to a keychain, or integrated into other pieces of gear, only to be used if circumstances get dire. More importantly, they allow you to generate clear and consistent sound that can carry for miles. It sure beats yelling until your vocal cords give out, or attempting to whistle through lips parched by dehydration and exposure.

We collected seven rescue whistles and used a decibel meter to compare the maximum decibel output of each (average of three blasts at 10 feet). Read on and consider whether one of these last-ditch tools deserves a place in your SHTF kit. 

Coghlan’s Six Function Whistle

Dimensions: 3.2 by 1.2 by 0.9 inches
Weight: 1 ounce
Maximum Output: 106 dB
MSRP: $14
URL: www.coghlans.com

rescue whistle Coghlan’s Six Function Whistle

Long-time readers may recall that we’re not typically fans of all-in-one survival tools, and this whistle hasn’t changed our minds. The sound is loud and clear, and the liquid-filled compass can help you get your bearings. There’s also a fold-out lens for fire-starting, and the world’s tiniest signal mirror — as last-resort options, they’re better than nothing. A single LED offers weak, bluish light output, and a thermometer indicates ambient temperature. The latter tool is an afterthought; if you’re trying to survive scorching heat or freezing cold, knowing the exact temperature will be near the bottom of your priority list.

Coghlan’s Six Function Whistle

Pros:

  • The whistle works great.
  • A spare compass is always handy.

Cons:

  • Jack of many trades, master of none, and bulky as a result
  • Flashlight is dim, takes obscure SR1121 batteries, and is easy to accidentally activate.

DIY Paracord Bracelet Whistle

Dimensions: 10 by 1 by 0.3 inches
Weight: 1 ounce
Maximum Output: 95 dB
MSRP: Approxamately $15
URL: N/A

diy paracord rescue whistle

If things go off the rails, you may not have access to your backpack or even the contents of your pockets. So, we made this paracord bracelet using about 15 feet of 550 cord, a button compass, and a polymer buckle that contains a whistle, ferro rod, and ceramic razor blade/striker. We even slipped two individually wrapped water purification tablets under the compass. All of these items were found in a parts bin, but you can buy the components for a few dollars each on Amazon or eBay. Search “paracord bracelet instructions” online for a DIY weaving guide.

diy paracord rescue whistle

Pros:

  • Wearable design makes it virtually impossible to lose
  • Customizable with tools for navigation, fire-starting, water purification, and more

Cons:

  • Ordering and assembling the parts requires more patience than off-the-shelf options
  • Mini whistle requires more pressure to produce clear sound

Nitecore NWE30

Dimensions: 2.6 by 0.9 inches
Weight: 1.9 ounces
Maximum Output: 80 dB
MSRP: $30
URL: www.nitecore.com

Nitecore NWE30 rescue whistle

This keychain-sized device uses a single CR123A lithium battery to produce audible and visual distress signals for up to 72 hours. To activate it, simply twist to loosen the tailcap. A shrill siren blasts from the omnidirectional emitter once every 10 seconds; if it’s dark, a light sensor will also trigger four white LEDs for a 2,000-
lumen flash every 3 seconds. The NWE30 is impact-resistant against 1-meter drops, and IP68 waterproof up to 2 meters of immersion. A battery and key ring clip are included.

Nitecore NWE30

Pros:

  • Produces continuous signals with no effort from the user. Just set it and forget it.
  • Takes a common battery, so you probably already have spares in your pack.

Cons:

  • Didn’t come close to the advertised 120 dB, and was far quieter than other whistles
  • If the battery dies and you don’t have a replacement, it’s useless.

SABRE Personal Alarm with Key Ring

Dimensions: 3.3 by 1 by 0.5 inches
Weight: 0.8 ounces
Maximum Output: 92 dB
MSRP: $10
URL: www.sabrered.com

SABRE Personal Alarm with Key Ring rescue whistle

Of all the whistles in this guide, this has the most dubious premise. Rather than being marketed as a backcountry signaling device, it’s said to “deter an attacker and help you to escape to safety.” SABRE’s product description even uses the cringeworthy line, “Empower yourself with extreme stopping power when you need it most.” Hyperbolic marketing aside, the alarm is activated by pulling it firmly to separate from the attached key ring pin. Replace the pin to silence the alarm. A National Breast Cancer Foundation pink version is also available, indicating this product’s target demographic.

SABRE Personal Alarm with Key Ring

Pros:

  • Pull-pin operation doesn’t require fine motor skills, and works one-handed

Cons:

  • Perpetuates negative perceptions of rescue whistles. If you want to be truly empowered for self-defense, seek training and lethal/less-lethal tools.
  • Requires four tiny, specialized LR41 alkaline batteries

TOPS Knives Survival Whistle

Dimensions: 2.8 by 1.1 by 0.3 inches
Weight: 0.3 ounces
Maximum Output: 110 dB
MSRP: Free with Knife purchase, $15 for 5 pack
URL: www.topsknives.com

TOPS Knives Survival Whistle

Many gear companies include promotional swag with their products — stickers, pens, beer coozies, etc. Whoever thought up the idea of including a free whistle with every TOPS survival knife deserves a raise. It’s something we can actually use, rather than toss in the junk drawer or trash can. This simple polymer whistle feels durable, produces a multi-tonal “train horn”-style sound, and slips into a pocket or knife sheath pouch easily. We were pleased to learn that, just like the company’s knives, these whistles are made in the USA.

TOPS Knives Survival Whistle

Pros:

  • Free with any knife purchase; also available in inexpensive five-packs
  • Made in the USA

Cons:

  • Thin rectangular mouthpiece makes it slightly more difficult to produce clear tones 

WE Knife A-05B

Dimensions: 2.2 by 0.3 inches
Weight: 0.3 ounces
Maximum Output: 104 dB
MSRP: $22
URL: www.weknife.com

WE Knife A-05B rescue whistle

If you’re hiking in the backcountry, functionality is much more important than aesthetics, but for everyday-carry tools, we prefer a sleeker appearance. WE Knife nailed it with this slim whistle, which is machined from a solid piece of 6AL-4V titanium. This material makes it light, durable, and reliable. It also looks great, with intricate grooves, a laser-etched logo, and a contoured nozzle. Three flame-anodized colors are available, including purple (model A), blue-bronze (B), and teal (C).

WE Knife A-05B

Pros:

  • Machined titanium construction is light and very strong
  • Small and stylish enough to remain on your keychain at all times

Cons:

  • Nothing noteworthy — it has one job and does it well.

Weewooday Loud Sound Emergency Whistles for Camping Hiking Hunting Outdoors Sports

Dimensions: 1.8 by 0.3 inches
Weight: 0.1 ounces
Maximum Output: 96 dB
MSRP: $7 for 12 pack
URL: www.amazon.com

Weewooday Loud Sound Emergency Whistles for Camping Hiking Hunting Outdoors Sports

Yet again, we dove into Amazon’s virtual bargain bin to see what low-budget offerings we could uncover. You can make wee-woo noises all day with this aluminum whistle from Weewooday, available in 12-packs straight from China. Black or red anodized finishes are available. Each whistle consists of a thin aluminum tube, a plastic sound insert, and a key ring. The product description says it’s useful for a wide range of purposes, including “contact partner and confirm location,” “anti-harassment,” and “playing with dogs.”

Weewooday Loud Sound Emergency Whistles for Camping Hiking Hunting Outdoors Sports

Pros:

  • Low bulk price means you can hand these out like candy on Halloween

Cons:

  • Shoddy machining and assembly left us with some whistles that work fine, and others that barely function at all
  • Requires significant pressure to produce a clear tone

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Steganography: More than Meets the Eye

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The digital spaces that society has become virtually dependent upon over the last 10 to 15 years are increasingly becoming nonpermissive. Big Tech censorship, intelligence organizations, and law-enforcement agencies continue to push against the First Amendment rights of Americans in ways that were previously only encountered by those living in overtly authoritarian regimes such as Iran, China, or Russia. While covert communications are often depicted as suspicious in film and politics, Steganography is a method to keep private communications secret in the digital age. 

It’s not surprising then, that many people have been turning to secure communications (COMSEC) tools such as Signal or Keybase, both of which provide end-to-end encryption. COMSEC is essential, protecting the contents of your communications, whether you’re chatting with family members on Signal or accessing your online banking via HTTPS. Sometimes, COMSEC isn’t enough to protect your privacy or security, however.

Glossary 

COMSEC: Communications Security

COVCOM: Covert Communications

Cover File: An image or video containing a hidden file within it

Message File: The secret message we want to hide

OPSEC: Operational Security

Dead Drop: A physical or digital location where files or items can be left by one party and retrieved by another without the two directly interacting. See Issue 37 for examples of physical dead drops.

Tradecraft: The application of tools, tactics, and procedures by intelligence or cybersecurity professionals

The Problems with Cryptography

When operating in a nonpermissive space, traditional cryptographic systems like PGP or modern systems like Signal provide two key disadvantages:

1. They do nothing to hide the fact that a communication has taken place.

2. The cryptography itself provides non-repudiation of the message by mathematically tying it to the owner of a signer’s private key.

Taken together, this means an adversary with means will know who is talking to whom and, should the keys be recovered or the messages decrypted via cryptanalysis, you won’t be able to make the case that you weren’t the one doing the communicating.

stock image steganography

Introducing Covert Communications

Intelligence officers and their agents have had this problem for centuries, and so over that period of time many methods to hide the fact that a communication even took place. Rather than COMSEC, these techniques make up COVCOM, or Covert Communications. In the analog world, COVCOM techniques have included disappearing ink and microdots. In the digital world, one of the more common techniques is steganography.

Digital steganography is the process of encrypting a file and then embedding it into another in order to hide its existence. Typically, the encapsulate is an image or video file, as data can be encoded into pixels without affecting the appearance of the image to the human eye.

Getting Started with Steganography

There are many free software options for steganography, with options available for all major operating systems. One very popular option is called OpenStego. Written in Java, it can run on Windows, Mac, Linux, or any other OS with support for Java. This makes it an excellent choice for adoption by a MAG or other group.

OpenStego can be downloaded from https://www.openstego.com and the Java Runtime Environment (JRE) can be downloaded from https://www.java.com, if necessary.

Once you’ve got Java and have downloaded the OpenStego zip file, unzip it and look for the appropriate starter. On Windows, you’ll want the “openstego.bat” file:

Running the .bat file should start the application:

steganography openstego

We see here that we need four things:

  • Message file is the secret text or other file that we’re trying to hide.
  • Cover file is the file we want to embed our message into, and what the world will see.
  • Output Stego File is the name of the file that we want to create, which will be the combination of our message and the cover file.
  • Encryption algorithm selection and password. This is something that’ll have to be known to all the intended recipients of the file and is used to protect the contents of the message even if its existence becomes known to an adversary.

Walking Through an Example

Let’s say that Big Tech has shut down a group used to organize an event or group of people, but the group still wants to organize. We may have an invitation such as this:

steganography openstego text

(This, of course, being a verse from the Irish rebel song “Rising of the Moon.”) We would save this file and then find some image file to hide it in. After running the program, we’d have two images. Side by side, they’d be indistinguishable:

steganography openstego two images

We would then post this image someplace:

steganography openstego doggo message

Later, another group member comes by, sees the message, and downloads the image:

steganography openstego doggo message

Using OpenStego, the member inputs the shared secret password and is able to recover the message:

steganography openstego

Notes on Tradecraft

Tradecraft is sum of the tools, techniques, and procedures (TTPs) used by intelligence or cybersecurity professionals. Adoption and proper application of these TTPs is key to successfully operating in the increasingly nonpermissive digital space and to making use of steganography worth it.

First, the dead drop isn’t really dead. (See sidebar for a definition and refer to Issue 37 for a detailed look at real-world dead drop applications.) Websites like 4chan or 7chan, for instance, allow anonymous users to post image files, making excellent digital dead drops. The reasonably high volume of traffic, coupled with the anonymous nature of these sites, help to confuse any links between visitors. Keep in mind, however, that some of these sites have controversial profiles that may make them targets of surveillance. Throwaway profiles and free image hosting sites like Imgur.com are also good options.

cat in bed steganography cryptology

Above: Steganography can be applied to any photo, but it’s often advantageous to use commonly shared memes or generic images that can be hidden in plain sight. Be sure the cover file you use fits the theme of the site you post it on.

Secondly, the digital-analog of a surveillance detection run would be leveraging Tor or a VPN before accessing any site that’ll be used as a digital dead drop. For a further layer of operational security (OPSEC), consider doing so away from your home or place of work.

Thirdly, when choosing cover files, you want to find files that are big enough that when your message is embedded, the overall size of the output file won’t be cause for obvious note. Additionally, choose cover files that are a good fit for the site you plan to dead drop them on. Common memes are always a good bet, but “adult” images on image sharing boards dedicated to the topic can be a fit, depending on your comfort level and risk profile.

Fourthly, remember to sanitize your clear text data when not using it. On Linux systems, for instance, you can securely delete files with the shred command (available as gshred on Macs). Windows systems will require a third-party software program to accomplish this. If you’re using a “live” operating system image like Tails when conducting the work, then all information is ephemeral anyway.

Last, but not least, keep in mind that there are some concerns related to the fact that everyone has to be aware of the same shared secret for this scheme to work. Failure to consider OPSEC when distributing the key to your group may provide an opportunity for a well-positioned and resourced adversary to gain information about the structure of the group. This infiltration could completely undermine your ability to set up covert communications channels. Choosing long pass phrases that are easy to remember but hard to guess will also decrease the likelihood of you or one of your peers needing to write it down, and the likelihood of an adversary being able to guess it.

steganography embarrassed woman Above: Hiding a message inside a raunchy “adult” photo may cause casual onlookers to click away in disgust, or deter them from visiting the type of sites that host that content in the first place.

Conclusion

The movement toward private and secure communications that began with Edward Snowden’s revelations of illegal domestic spying by U.S. intelligence has picked up steam since the general chaos that was 2020. While secure communications should be a cornerstone of everyone’s communications plan, the increasingly nonpermissive environment created by Big Tech and government censorship means that covert communications will become ever more important. Thanks to a proliferation of free software tools, anyone with common sense and a little basic tradecraft can integrate COVCOM into a well-rounded digital communications plan, whether for their family, their emergency preparedness group, or even just for fun. 

[Illustration by Cassandra Dale.]

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The Tactical and Survival Application of Body Armor

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On its face, the concept of body armor seems rather self-explanatory: better to have it and not need it, than the opposite. Having said that, body armor is a specific tool designed for a specific purpose and, more importantly, a certain environment. Let’s take a look at the concept of Body Armor in the 21st century, and hone in on various uses and applications, as well as relevancy against the current threats an prepared citizen might face. 

Modern Body Armor Theory

When we think of modern body armor, two things typically come to mind: the plate carriers worn by those in the military and the vests worn by police officers, political officials, and VIPs in both film and the real world. Although most people consciously recognize the difference between the real world and the virtual, it cannot be over-emphasized the importance of drawing a hard line between how body armor is represented in video games and movies, and the very real, very dangerous world. Both are bound to various constraints, but it would be catastrophic to confuse in-game statistics with NIJ level ratings of body armor.

Modern Body armor was created as a reaction to the dominant violent threats of the day: bullets and blades. The colloquial difference between hard and soft body armor is often simplified down to the ability of plates to stop rifle rounds which typically move at such velocity to pass straight through flexible kevlar vests. However, in the decades since these types of equipment arrived in military and law enforcement hands, two dynamics have changed: firearms and munition types, and a rise in civilian ownership of both guns and body armor.

S&S Plateframe - Redux full

Above: The S&S Precision PlateFrame Redux reprents a high end minimalist plate carrier

Foundational to the use of body armor is understanding how bullets, blades, and blunt force objects interact with the human body. It is said “the body is made up of timers and switches,” where if one organ is destroyed the person dies immediately, but if another is lost, there could still be seconds, minutes, hours, or days before death occurs. Losing blood or preventing oxygen from reaching the brain acts as a timer, but the severing of the nervous system can work as a switch. The lethality of a knife or gunshot wound is determined by the amount of time it takes to make the victim functionally unresponsive, and this guides the application of body armor.

hoplite plate carrier esapi

When it comes to bodily organs, one could say that the intestines are almost as vital as the heart and lungs, especially in regard to day-to-day living. Digestion, Respiration, and the Circulatory system all work together, but the sudden disabling of each system impacts the body at different rates. Which is why properly worn body armor covers the heart and lungs, as well as some of the spine. The purpose of Body Armor is to increase the likelihood that an injured person will live long enough to reach a hospital in the event they suffer wounds typical to modern combat. Plate carriers and soft armor protect the organs that, if harmed, would result in death before surgical-level medical care could take place.

Takeaways:

  • Body Armor is for a world with Hospitals.
  • Properly-fit, and properly-worn Body Armor protects the heart and lungs: the most vital organs in the short term.

Modern Body Armor Dynamics

Beyond theory, modern body armor introduces unique dynamics into any survival scenario: logistically, physically, and socially. Each of these dynamics applies to both a group and to an individual, sometimes differently.

 Logistics: Whether as an individual or as a group, one must deal with how body armor is acquired, transported, and stored. Militaries may be able to source gear for a whole unit and are bound by internal standards for protection levels and storage requirements. But the individual must face the market without the resources of an agency or organization to do the research or purchasing for them. This means that they may not have the ability to purchase multiple levels or types of body armor from the beginning, and they must rely on external resources to inform their decision. The individual will also be solely responsible for care of the armor. For soft armor, improper long-term storage can create folds, ridges or pockets that create gaps between the outer carrier and the Kevlar layers inside. Likewise, hanging a vest for long period can cause the Kevlar panels to “sag” inside the vest itself, again creating coverage gaps. For plates, the primary concern is impact. Bumping, dropping or hitting hard plates can creates dents or micro-cracks that reduce the plate’s ability to fully stop incoming fire.

 Physical: Body armor, be it hard plates or soft armor, changes how a person moves and carries themselves. Beyond the weight alone, it can make riding in a vehicle difficult if not impossible, and the physical limitations of the wearer (such as those based on injuries, illnesses or physical fitness level) are only amplified under the increased burden. Without consistent practice, carrying the weight debilitates some on even an easy day, and quickly turns a bad situation worse. For those not able to perform in the gear, body armor quickly becomes a net negative.

Regardless if you are operating as an individual or as part of a group, deliberate training and practice with body armor is necessary. Regardless of how much training an individual completes in body armor, it will always impact their ability to cover terrain, with increasing effects over time.

body armor s&s precision plateframe Modular

Above: A fully loaded plate carrier will provide the best protection, but will almost certainly draw attention.

 Social: As much as we could wax poetic about the Second Amendment in principle, it simply is not common in most Western countries to see people walking around in body armor of any sort, with the closest exception being city police. In some social situations, gear of this sort is viewed as a symbol of authority and, in others, it stands out as a target. Whether out of suspicion or admiration, body armor is most often seen and treated as a sign of intent: one does not wear it simply for fashion, training classes and range days notwithstanding.

 Takeaways:

  • The acquisition, storage, and implementation of body armor requires proactive attention.
  • Unlike a jacket, it is equipment that requires familiarization and practice to wear properly.
  • Body Armor will draw attention, in useful or harmful ways depending on the circumstances.

 Modern Body Armor Situations

The phrase “mission dictates gear” works well in clearly defined military circumstances, such as night raids or long-distance reconnaissance movements, but when it comes to something as ambiguous as survival we are faced with a much more abstract problem. In order to properly apply body armor in a survival situation, we must define the mission.

For all application considerations, it will be assumed that the wearer is capable and practiced in wearing body armor.

 Group vs Individual

A lone individual will have to assess whether it is better for their situation to attempt to socially blend in if possible, or stand out due to the greater likelihood of receiving small arms fire. In the event that a gunfight is inevitable, opting for armor will increase their chances of survival, but such situations are extremely rare.

In most families, there is at least one person who cannot effectively wear body armor, be they children, the elderly, or those with physical conditions. This adds a dynamic unique to civilian survivors and magnifies the complications a sole individual would face, because the family may choose to acquire more gear and thus accrue more cost. For those who can wear body armor, not all will experience the same comfort and protection level based on body type and fitness level.

One step higher, at the level of a neighborhood, the greatest level of complication manifests across all dynamics. It is all but guaranteed that the diversity of skill and equipment across larger groups will vary so greatly and, depending on personalities, could produce internal strife. Most people in a neighborhood do not have their own body armor and, of those who do, even fewer are capable with it.

Effectively a collection of individuals and families who have, in all likelihood, not organized or trained with each other before an emergency scenario, it is unreasonable to assume common equipment and skill level. But if unified by community esirit de corps, or sheer self-preservation, the abilities of some can greatly benefit the whole. A community that coordinates an armed and armored security force will eventually be faced with how others react to the group's appearance. Those leary of gangs, militias, or the actions of the State may view impromptu security with suspicion. For example, look at how the “guards” of Seattle's CHAZ/CHOP were perceived by the surrounding neighborhoods, city officials, and the nation.

 Short Term versus Long Term

A situation will determine if, how, and which type of body armor should be used. A traditional divide between military or government activities, and those of individual citizens is shifting, if not dissolving in the 21st century. With situations such as the American riots of 2020, and the takeover of Kabul by the Taliban in 2021, survival in the short term can mean reaching a safe house, escaping a city, or protecting a neighborhood until relative peace returns. Even in these scenarios, the physical requirements of body armor demand them to be a proactive measure, not merely a reaction.

The distinction between short-term and long-term use of body armor is determined by the level of sustainment available. By consulting Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs, we note that food, water, warmth, and rest are more important than the security that body armor brings in a long-term crisis. It is here that we begin to find a holistic application of such equipment. In regard to survival, a plate carrier is the means to live through a short-term crisis. But only if there is access to food and shelter will it have long-term viability at defending such resources.

The terms proactive and reactive, in regard to body armor, do not necessarily translate into offensive and defensive.

 Takeaways

  • Proactive vs. Reactive: It is absolutely vital to first consider the need, and acquire body armor to meet that goal, instead of first buying gear and later try to find a use for it.
  • The application differs for an individual, family, or community
  • Not everyone's skill, comfort, and equipment levels will be equal in a group or family setting.
  • Body Armor is a tool in the short term

 Types Determined by Threat

The National Institute of Justice (NIJ) categorizes different levels or standards of body armor according to what types of threats they can stop. A manufacturer may state that their armor meets or exceeds a specific level, but not all have been NIJ certified. The history behind these levels is best understood as being developed to address specific threats, most often directed towards different international conflicts. The development of technology and material has been gently guided by the needs of the NIJ, not necessarily private citizens, in order to produce the current categories.

armor express soft armor

Above: Soft armor is easier to wear underneath clothing, but provides less protection.

While the NIJ rating for bullet-stopping capabilities begins at IIA and currently goes as high as IV, each of the standards is specified by the type and velocity of the projectile. It can be safely generalized that, at the time of writing, soft armor stops most handgun rounds between 9mm and .44 magnum, so long as the armor achieves at least a Level IIA rating.

The two NIJ ratings for hard plates are:

-Level III which are rated to stop a 7.62 mm projectile traveling at 2780 ft/s ± 30 ft/s (non-armor-piercing .308)

-Level IV which are rated to stop .30 caliber at 2880 ft/s ± 30 ft/s  (military-grade armor-piercing projectiles in .30-06)

-Level III plates will stop standard 7.62x39mm AK rounds (except for the mild steel core variation) but will not stop M855 “green tip” 5.56mm rounds, which are prolific in the US. The matter is only further complicated by the great variety of projectile types and barrel lengths found in the United States. As a result, various manufacturers have begun making what is commonly referred to as “special threat plates,” or “Level III+” plates. These are boutique armor plates that fall short of Level IV, but typically cover the “light armor piercing” gray space where 5.56mm green tip and 7.62x39mm steel core live. It should be noted that Level III+ and Special Threat Rated are not an official NIJ ratings, and buyers should review manufacturers specs carefully. Don’t be afraid to ask a company about their testing/rating process. The good ones typically use an independent research laboratory to certify their plates against specific threats, whether or not they are within the specific NIJ rating system.

 Takeaways:

  • Body Armor is categorized into levels according to what NIJ standards they meet.
  • Read the fine print: some are NIJ certified, others use non-standard certification methods.
  • Soft Armor can stop pistol rounds, but Hard Armor is required to stop rifle rounds.

 Finally, Application

Theory, dynamics, and situational considerations come together to provide the framework for both if and how body armor would be implemented in known and suspected events.

Three recent examples provide the context for what such a survival situation might look like: the worldwide 2020 riots, the prolonged civil unrest in cities like Portland, and the violent upheaval of nation-states like Venezuela and, more recently, Afghanistan.

 Riot Season

From theory, we recognize that body armor belongs in a world with hospitals. During the Minneapolis riots of 2020, individual citizens volunteered to protect their communities from those who took advantage of the chaos and outrage. In some cases, this drew attention to their neighborhoods but, in the end, those who stood up for themselves were mostly left untouched. In the event that “things went wrong” the hospitals were still up and running, and capable of treating injuries from burns to gunshot wounds. As buildings burned, some chose to leave the city, opting to live with families until the unrest died down.

body armor ferro slickster worn

Above: The Ferro Concepts Slickster can quickly be scaled up and down to the needs of the moment. 

From street demonstrations to the rooftops of local businesses, AR-15's, shotguns, and handguns became a normal sight in certain areas. Protestors could be seen wearing body armor and carrying AR-style firearms through downtown Minneapolis. In events like evacuations, personal armor went a long way to add security to an otherwise chaotic environment. In the short term, body armor was a means to an end.

body armor under all skill no luck flannel

Above: If trying to conceal a minimalist plate carrier under a full sized shirt, opt for something with a pattern. It will help disguise the body armor from unsuspecting eyes, but those who know what to look for will still be able to spot it. Shirt: Ntchwaidumela by All Skill No Luck.

In terms of body armor, both soft and hard options have something to offer. To this day, handguns are the most used firearm in violent crime, especially in deeply urban environments. Properly rated soft armor, being easier to conceal, and requiring less familiarization, could be one of the few examples where the phrase “better than nothing” is not the pitch of a snake oil salesman.

 Prolonged Unrest

But in some parts of the city and the country, the unrest became a prolonged reality with no clear end in sight. This is the ideal place for Body Armor to show its value, as the medical institutions continued to function, despite the unrest, treating all who entered their doors with medical attention. As factions continued to clash in the street, non-participants in the area were caught in the crossfire, often to tragic ends.

body armor ferro slickster worn under triple aught design ranger LT

Above: Even under a hoodie, the edges of a plate carrier will still stand out. 

It would be a stretch to argue that body armor should be worn daily to and from the grocery store. Rather, the ability for a family or individual to use it in the event a local street fight (or gunfight) takes place in their front yard or brings comfort in the day-to-day, as well. Prolonged unrest resides in the uncertainty between the likelihood of order restoring, and the possibility of violent revolution or societal breakdown. Many of the greatest dangers in these situations are psychological and mental, as those caught in the crossfire are faced with a hard decision: hold on to hope that the violence will end soon, or leave the area, possibly indefinitely.

Prolonged unrest is an ideal example of how body armor can benefit the private citizen, as these events are often defined by the crippling of police response and a considerable rise in local crime. Body armor can bring a sense of comfort, and a capability, albeit small, and improves one's position whether they choose to remain in place or leave the area.

 Brave New World

Since even the concept of a total-collapse scenario quickly devolves into near-infinite possibilities, it should never be the starting point at which one considers body armor. This means that one should not make decisions on if or what type of body armor they invest in with the apocalypse in mind. This protects against panic buying and facilitates a proactive, productive approach to self-defense and survival.

 In Conclusion

Body Armor is, first and foremost, a tool to be used to aid the accomplishment of certain objectives. The ambiguity of survival as an objective must be refined by the parameters of your individual situation: urban vs. rural, bug-in vs. bug-out, solo vs family-, or community-level planning, and so forth. Not all armor is created equal, and it is far from magic. Instead, body armor is best seen as a supporting option, not a solution in and of itself. That being the case, the support it brings extends beyond the physical, as it can add a small sense of security to an otherwise chaotic situation.

Plate Carriers Featured

S&S Precision PlateFrame-Redux
Colors: Black, Multicam, Tan, Toadvine
MSRP: $372
URL: sandsprecision.com

S&S Precision PlateFrame-Modular
Colors: Black, Multicam, Tan, Toadvine
MSRP (Base): $1,142 (as Bundle at time of writing with additional 3x AR-15 Mag shingle)
URL: sandsprecision.com

Ferro Concepts Slickster
Colors: Black, Coyote Brown, Ranger Green, Wolf Grey, Multicam, Multicam Black
MSRP: $16o
URL: www.ferroconcepts.com

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