Survival Gear Reviews
When it comes to surviving in the wilderness, having the right gear is essential. Here are some of the best survival items that you should consider adding to your pack:
1. Knives – A good knife is an essential tool for any outdoor enthusiast. Look for a durable blade with a full tang and a comfortable handle. Some popular options include the Gerber LMF II Infantry and the Benchmade 940-2.
2. Backpacks – Choose a backpack that fits your body well and can carry all the gear you need. The Osprey Atmos AG 65 and the REI Co-op Flash 45 are two great options.
3. Tents – You’ll want a tent that is lightweight, easy to set up, and provides ample protection from the elements. Consider the MSR Hubba NX or the Big Agnes Fly Creek UL3.
4. Water Filters – Staying hydrated is crucial when you’re out on the trail. Bring along a water filter like the Sawyer Mini or the Katadyn Pocket Filter.
5. Fire Starters – Matches and lighters can get wet or run out quickly. Invest in a reliable fire starter like the Light My Fire Firesteel or the Ultimate Survival Technologies Sparkie.
Overall, investing in high-quality survival gear will give you peace of mind knowing that you have everything you need to stay safe and comfortable while exploring the great outdoors.
Survival Training and Courses
While having the right equipment is important, it’s also critical to know how to use it effectively. That’s where survival training courses come into play. These programs teach vital skills such as navigation, first aid, and self-defense. Here are some top schools and courses to consider:
1. Tom Brown Jr.’s Tracker School – This school offers comprehensive wilderness survival courses that focus on tracking, wildlife awareness, and primitive living skills.
2. Wilderness Medical Associates – If you’re looking for medical training specifically, this organization offers a range of courses focused on wilderness medicine.
3. Frontier Bushcraft – Based in Scotland, this school offers a variety of bushcraft courses that cover topics like shelter building, fire making, and animal tracking.
4. Boulder Outdoor Survival School – Located in Utah, this school has been around since 1968 and offers both basic and advanced survival courses.
By taking one of these courses, you’ll gain valuable knowledge and confidence that could save your life if you ever find yourself in a dangerous situation.
Survival Stories and Case Studies
One of the most inspiring aspects of survival is hearing stories about people who have overcome extreme situations using their skills and knowledge. Here are a few examples:
1. Aron Ralston – In 2003, Ralston was hiking alone in Utah when he fell and became trapped by a boulder. He eventually had to cut off his own arm to free himself and make it safely home. His story inspired the movie “127 Hours.”
2. Yossi Ghinsberg – While traveling through South America in 1981, Ghinsberg got lost in the Amazon rainforest and spent three weeks fighting off starvation and dehydration before being rescued. His experience led him to become a motivational speaker and author.
3. Laurence Gonzales – After crashing his plane during a solo flight over Alaska, Gonzales survived for days in subzero temperatures before finally being rescued. His book “Deep Survival” examines the psychology behind survival and what makes certain individuals more likely to persevere in difficult circumstances.
These incredible stories show just how much humans are capable of enduring and overcoming when faced with seemingly insurmountable challenges. They serve as reminders that with the right mindset and preparation, we too can triumph against adversity.
The Best Survival Books and Resources
There’s no better way to prepare for emergency situations than by reading books and resources written by experts in the field. Here are some must-read titles:
1. “SAS Survival Handbook” by John ‘Lofty’ Wiseman – This classic manual covers everything from finding food and water to building shelters and signaling for help.
2. “Bushcraft 101” by Dave Canterbury – This guide focuses on practical tips and techniques for surviving in the wilderness, including how to start fires, build shelters, and navigate using natural landmarks.
3. “The Lost Ways” by Claude Davis – This book takes readers back to basics by teaching traditional survival skills such as preserving meat without refrigeration, growing crops without pesticides, and even treating illnesses naturally.
4. “Wild Edibles” by Sergei Beglaryan – For those interested in learning which plants and animals are edible in the wild, this guide includes detailed illustrations and descriptions of common species found throughout North America.
5. “The Essential Wilderness Navigation” by David Seidman – Whether you’re hiking, camping, or hunting, understanding how to read maps and navigate using compasses and other tools is critical. This book breaks down the fundamentals of wilderness navigation in an accessible and engaging manner.
By incorporating these resources into your preparedness plan, you’ll be ready to face whatever challenges nature throws your way.