Bush Craft Issue 43

Editor Simon Ellar
simon@bushcraftmagazine.com
Sub-Editor Olivia Beardsmore
Happy Birthday Bushcraft &
olivia@bushcraftmagazine.com
Design Andy Childs
Survival Skills Magazine!
design@bushcraftmagazine.com Its hard to believe that seven years ago, I was standing at the
Proof-Reading Outdoors Show at the NEC, Birmingham in a 3x3m stand, launching
Elaine Gilboy the very first issue of Bushcraft & Survival Skills Magazine. Some of
Advertising Sales you may remember this or may have even purchased your first issue
advertising@bushcraftmagazine.com there. I am overwhelmed with gratitude to each and every subscriber
and reader because without you, we would not be on our 43rd issue.
Office Administrator
The magazine has gone from strength to strength, being marketed
Linda Frohock
at many shows and events throughout the country with stands in
info@bushcraftmagazine.com
excess of 300 square metres providing interactive bushcraft activities
Distribution to all. Through the magazine, I have had the opportunity to work
Comag with and meet leading figures in the industry such as Lars Flt,
Tavistock Road Mors Kochanski, Bear Grylls, Les Stroud, Mykel Hawke, John Lofty
West Drayton Wiseman, Simon King, Ben Fogle, and Steve Backshall amongst
Middlesex others. These opportunities have taken me to Sweden working with
UB7 7QE
Lars Falt, visiting Grnsfors Bruks, forging at and touring the factory.
Telephone: 01895 433800
I have attended many courses run by key figures in the bushcraft and survival industry. I have travelled to some great locations
Email:cscirculation@comag.co.uk
such as the Sarhara Desert, and recently lived with the Massai people in Kenya, which was an amazing experience and a
Cover Image rollercoaster ride of emotions, you can read more about this from Olivia on p58.
Jeremiah a Massai Warrior
Environmental The team and I hope that you have enjoyed the plethora of articles and information we have been able to bring to you and
Bushcraft & Survival Skills is an Environmentally
Responsible Business. Printed on FSC paper from we thank you for your continued support of the publication, particularly when times are hard in our current economy and the
sustainable sources, we use vegetable- based magazine industry has struggled as it competes with a new digital age. We were delighted to hear that although magazine
inks (soya and boiled linseed oil). All waste
paper is recycled via a local transfer partner. sales are down from last year by 8% as a whole, with camping magazines (the category in which we are placed) down by 13%,
Refillable ink cartridges, eco-bulbs and recycled Bushcraft & Survival Skills Magazine is up by 18% and that is down to you.
/ recyclable consumables are used and we are
involved in several tree-planting schemes, to
WIN!
name just some of our actions to be green. EDITORS COMPETITION
Printed by Buxton Press an The traditional gift for a seventh anniversary is wool and so you can share in our seventh
award-winning, ecofriendly printer.
birthday celebration with us, we have seven woolly items to give away. Not just any wool but
Merino wool! If you would like a Woolpower Merino Wool garment then all you have to do
to enter is send in seven reasons why you like Bushcraft & Survival Skills Magazine and seven
Cert no. TT-COC-2200 suggestions for future issues. We are looking forward
to hearing from you, and seven lucky winners will be picked at random.
Subscriptions Send in your answers to: competitions@bushcraftmagazine.com
UK: 29 / year (1 year, 6 issues)
Europe: 39 / year This issue is just packed with information and knowledge about your hobby from using
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Digital: 19 / year (1 year, 6 issues) your initiative to sharpen your tools with Ben & Lois Orford (p12) to an array of woodland
Subscribe online at: crafts including bark containers (p44), rustic furniture (p78) and making a longbow (p8).
www.bushcraftmagazine.com To inspire, we have a review on two books you may like to read (p82) and an account of
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0333 4567 123 & Press Option 1
Cheques & Postal Orders payable to: tipi or would like to upgrade the one you have, then read my review on the latest tipis
SO Publications & Events Ltd on the market and save your funds by buying what is best for you (p48). Ian Nairn is here
PO Box 8098, Derby, DE1 0ZQ with another money-saving tip showing you how to make a fabulous budget headover (p64). With riverbank tales and Loftys
Life Stories (p18) your love of all things wild and adventurous will grow. Dont forget to make sure you know the five most
Tel: 0333 4567 123 important survival plants too (p26) as Paul Kirtley shares his expert knowledge on the subject and of course, as always there is
E-mail: info@bushcraftmagazine.com so much more
Website: www.bushcraftmagazine.com
Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this Until next time - Happy Bushcrafting!
publication are not to be considered those of
the publisher. Whilst every effort is made to
ensure the accuracy of the content, data, advice
etc. contained within, no responsibility will be
accepted for any errors, omissions or comments
made by writers, interviewees, or editors, or for
comments from any other source. We accept no
responsibility for any damages incurred resulting
from the use of any information contained in this
magazine, however caused. Any prices quoted Simon Ellar
are correct at the time of going to press.
Editor
Copyright: All articles, writings, drawings, Follow Bushcraft & Survival Skills Magazine on Facebook
photographs etc. are copyright. Reproduction
in whole or in part without written permission
is strictly prohibited.
2012 SO Publications & Events Ltd. All rights

reserved. ISSN: 1749-7205
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i). No purchase is necessary to enter; nor is there any charge to enter any competition ii). All decisions are final. iii). Bushcraft and Survival Skills reserve the right to disqualify any entrant and / or winner at our absolute
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www.benorford.com
Ben and Lois Orford
Ben makes handmade
specialist bushcraft knives
and green woodcraft tools
including many Spoon or
Crook knives and
bespoke Craft tools.
ideal for all woodcraft
needs. Also a wide
range of other green
wood tools.
Lois makes custom

leather work products
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pouches to
bespoke
tool covers and
sheaths for any of
your bushcraft or
greenwood tools.
Please phone or
email for advice
e: info@benorford.com
t: 01886880410 m: 07866821308
w: www.benorford.com
Ben Orford 1/4.indd 1 06/05/2010 14:25
4 BUSHCRAFT & survival skills magazine Follow Bushcraft & Survival Skills Magazine on Facebook
CONTENTS...
FEATURES REGULARxxxxx
8 Make an Ash Longbow 3 Editorial
12 Sharp Thinking 7 Letters to the editor
18 Loftys Life Stories 16 In the news
22 Tales of the Riverbank 67 Back Issues Offer
26 The 5 Most Important Survival Plants 68 Subscription Offer
34 Ticks: Vampires or just a piece of natural jigsaw 69 Next issue
38 Picture Perfect 73 Trading Post
44 Make a Birch Bark Container
58 Life Changing Expedition subscr
iB
64
70
Bushcraft on a Budget Headover
Tracking Exercises & Games to Play Part 2
TODAY! E
FOR DE
74 Best in Bushcraft 2012 Winners & Finalists Comments T
78 Rustic Furniture SEE pag AILS
e 68
COMPETITIONS REVIEWS
3 7th Birthday Competition
43 Win a Massai Stick 48 Tipi or not Tipi?
47 What happened here? 82 The Long Walk
57 Win a Tipi 82 Primitive Technology II
82 Win Primitive Technology II
82 Win The Long Walk
MEET THE CONTRIBUTORS...

Here are just SOME of those who make this possible...
Pablo, HeWood Life - Pablo is a life-long wildlife
has a military and law-enforcement Jason Ingamells, How To - Jason's interest in
enthusiast.
background and has a wide range of teaching and Survival was sparked as a child
training qualifications. He uses a combination of
bushcraft, tracking and
when he went on his first aid course,
rushing straight out afterwards to
Paul Kirtley
field craft skills to get close buy Lofty Wiseman's SAS Survival is owner and Chief Instructor of
to wildlife. He has tracked Frontier Bushcraft Ltd. He was
Handbook and all the kit he
previously Course Director at
wildlife in various locations could purchase! However as he Woodlore Ltd. He spent 10 years
around the world including developed an understanding of studying and training under the
Southern Africa. Pablo runs what nature could provide he guidance of world-renowned
Woodlife Trails; a Bushcraft soon understood that it was the bushcraft expert, Ray Mears, first as
and Tracking school and knowledge he held in his head a student on his bushcraft courses
Woodlife Social Network, a site and not the gear in his pack that and then as an employee. Paul is
dedicated to wildlife, tracking one of only a few people who have been recognised by Ray
was all the essential kit he needed.
Mears as a bushcraft instructor, being awarded the celebrated
and bushcraft. antler-handled Woodlore instructors knife. Paul also holds the
Mountain Leader Award.
John Lofty Wiseman should need

Perry McGee, Perry McGees National Tracking School no introduction in the world of bushcraft & survival. He
served with 22 SAS for over 26 years, rising to the rank
Son of the late Eddie McGee, Perry is of Sergeant-Major and ran the SAS selection course
and the Survival School,
Ian Nairn , Bushcraft on a budget
no stranger to the wilds. With over 40 'Make do and Mend' is Ian's Philosophy.
years experience in survival training ensuring that the standards He is a dab hand at all things creative,
and leadership, he has endured for the SAS remained high. and would be a match for any skilled
survival training and situations in all After he retired, he wrote
seamstress! His innovative ideas can save
types of terrain and climates, gaining The SAS Survival Handbook:
How to Survive in the Wild, you pounds, showing you how to make
knowledge of survival scenarios all
in Any Climate, on Land or kit from things that you might find lying
over the world. Perry loves helping
others learn these skills and willingly at Sea. First published in around. Ian is constantly on the lookout
assists others where possible. Perry 1986, selling over 2 million for items to re-use or turn into something
is founder of Perry McGees Tracking copies, it has been translated for bushcraft use. He also has a long-standing interest in and
School and author of a number into 18 different languages extensive knowledge of woodcraft and green woodworking,
of books including The Tracking and adapted for the Collins
which, combined with his other skills, makes for some great
Handbook. Pocket Guide The SAS
money-saving tips!
Guide, which sells hundreds of thousands each year and
as an iPhone App.
To view all the contributors visit www.bushcraftmagazine.com BUSHCRAFT & survival skills magazine 5
STAR
L
LETTERSTOTHE EDITOR! Mud ETTE
Tea , Swea
r
R
Gry s by Be t &
lls o ar
Dual Purpose Handle! Upcycled! way n its
!
Hi Bushcraft & Survival Skills magazine, Hi Bushcraft & Survival Skills magazine,
I recently bought a flint stick but needed a handle to fit it too. Whilst out hiking, I Just a little photo of the bucksaw I made from an old
cut a small piece of silver birch and when I returned back home, I drilled a hole in broken chair. My lad broke one of the kitchen chairs, so
the centre of it and inserted the flint stick. It has made a lovely temporary handle I though I would make a buck saw with it.
and can also be used for tinder. If ever I need any tinder, all I have to do is carve
some bark off the handle and It took a few attempts, but I finally got it to work great. The end pieces are
I'm in business. Simple! made from the leg parts and the cross member is made from the long back
piece, which I cut down and the string is off an old cat scratcher.
Kind regards,
Many thanks,
Scout Gordon Peter Cross,
Enville,
Hi Scout Gordon, West Midlands
Super idea! Let me know
how you get on, you may
find, if you cut a fresh Hi Peter,
branch, that as the wood I have seen many
dries out it may split and handmade saws, the
the grip on the firesteel last thing that I would
loosens. If this happens have expected to see
and you wanted a more would be one made
permanent solution you could use some strong glue to keep it in. Another out of a chair! Well
solution is to look out for some seasoned Birch, or cut a piece and let it season done, that really is
outside before drilling the hole for your firesteel. You could drill a hole at the upcycling!
top too and put some cord through.
Happy Bushcrafting!
I love the idea of having the Birch bark there to peel off in case of need!
Simon
Happy Bushcrafting!
Simon
Bushcraft for Beginners Bushcraft IN FRANCE

Dear Editor, Hello,

I have been a subscriber to Bushcraft and Survival Skills for approximately 18 I'm writing from France where I live. I discovered your famous magazine a
months and find the magazine very hard to put down. The world of bushcraft while ago.

is something that fascinates me and fires the imagination.My problem is that
What a pity there's none like your one in France, which iswhy I subscribed
my bushcraft skills could be as described as basic or at worst, DANGEROUS.
and have since ordered seven back issues too.
Is it possible for the magazine to include a beginners or basics page for us
lightweights? This is a picture of me doing a

river crossing, I hope you like it.
Thank you,

With thanks,
Peter Rayment,
Cambridge Regis Montemont, France

Hi Peter, Hi Regis,
Its great to hear that you have become interested in bushcraft over the I am glad that you like reading
last 18 months. You are not alone as we hear from plenty of people each Bushcraft & Survival Skills
month who are getting involved in this growing hobby. Each issue we offer magazine. We started the
a selection of articles ranging from beginner articles to advanced articles, magazine seven years ago as
however I can understand if initially an article may appear advanced. Have there was not a magazine for bushcraft enthusiasts. Since then, many
a read of the article and then give it a go. If you have any questions relating books have come out on the subject and interest is certainly growing,
to an article, feel free to write in and we will ask the author for you should who knows there may be a French bushcraft magazine in the future.
you need further assistance. If there are any subjects you would like to see We provide a digital version, but as many people prefer the feel and
specifically covered then also let us know. I hope this helps and do check portability of a real magazine we are happy to mail to France, indeed
out the back issues (currently on offer p67) as they have many articles we have subscribers that prefer a physical magazine throughout Europe
covering basic skills that you will find suitable. and the U.S.A. and in countries as far reaching as Australia, Canada, New
Zealand, Brazil, Dubai, South Korea and more. So we really do appeal to,
Happy Bushcrafting!
and service an international readership.
Simon
Happy Bushcrafting!
To win great bushcraft prizes, send in your

Simon
Write
'Letter to the editor' to Follow Bushcraft & Survival Skills Magazine Today!
letters@bushcraftmagazine.com on Facebook
HOW TO
BOWS, THE BRITISH

& THE BOWYER
The running bowline
Using another tree as a pulley
by Richard Lees MSc
There is perhaps no single weapon more ingrained into the psyche of the
inhabitants of the British Isles than the longbow. Initially, the bow was a
versatile and vital survival tool used for hunting game such as birds, boar
and red deer. If we go back ten-thousand years ago when the archaeological
record shows that longbows were first used, it is thought our hunter-gatherer
ancestors used them to hunt woolly mammoth. Furthermore, our ancestors
were hunting brown bear as recently as 1000 AD.
T
he intimate British relationship with the longbow eventually evolved to include
warfare. Arguably, it reached its apex at the battle of Agincourt. The skill of
the bowmen and the sheer deadliness of the longbow will live forever in our
cultural and oral history. Globally adored legends such as Robin Hood are at the
heart of British folklore. Interestingly, there is an archaic law that still requires every
Englishman over the age of fourteen to practice the longbow for two hours every
weekend while being overseen by a member of the clergy!
The bow-making process begins with finding a suitable tree; therefore, I will briefly
explain the basic technique required to fell a tree. This will give you all the raw
material you will need. It is important to note that before you fell any trees, you must Starting the gob cut
check to see if there is a Tree Protection Order (TPO) in place and have the permission
of the landowner. Also, you should only harvest trees in accordance with the
woodland management scheme.
The gob cut
First, throw a bundle of rope over a branch, and tie a running bowline knot. Then,
slide the knot into place and pull it tight. If you attach the other end of the rope
round another nearby tree, this will act in a similar fashion as a pulley and help to
guide the tree to fall in the safest direction.
Then, with an axe, cut the sink into the base of the tree. You can do this by cutting at
a forty-five degree angle to the bottom of the cut, as it is important that this be flat.
The sink, sometimes called a gob cut, has a flat bottom and comes in about one-fifth
of the way through the trunk. This is the point where the trunk will break, forming a
hinge; therefore the orientation of the sink will dictate the direction the tree will fall.
The next step is hazardous, and great care should be taken. A few inches above
your sink or gob cut, you will need to perform a back cut. While you are making the
back cut, your companion should put the tree under tension by pulling on the pulley
attached to the other tree (as described in the first step). The tree should now fall in
the desired direction. It could barber chair, however, where the trunk suddenly and
violently snaps. In order to ensure your safety, you should never stand or look directly
behind the tree when making the back cut.
The two cuts act to create a hinge. When the hinge gets thin enough, and with the
guidance of your pulley, the tree will fall. You must always have an escape route
planned which is at forty-five degrees to the rear of the tree. The danger zone is Putting in the back cut
directly behind the tree and everywhere within a one-hundred-and- eighty-degree
arc of where the tree could fall. You will then be left with two escape routes at forty- Felling the tree
five degree angles behind the tree. You must always ensure that your escape route is
clear of any obstacles. It is of the utmost importance that you book yourself onto a
course to learn these forestry skills first hand, as tree felling is potentially lethal.
Ideally, a longbow should be made from yew (Taxus baccata). However, yew is no
longer grown as a crop. A decent stave needs to come from the trunk of a young tree
and not from a branch. The sheer rarity of the wood makes the costs of a yew
longbow prohibitive. Fortunately, as we will be looking at in this accuracy; however, it has little power. A straight bow has medium
article, ash (Fraxinus excelsior) can be used to make an exceptional power and medium accuracy. A re-curved bow, one which bends
flat bow. away from the string, is the best design for power, but it has poor
accuracy.
As an interesting digression, many
ancient bows have been recovered by There are essentially two types of bow: long
archaeologists across the globe, and bows are as deep as they are wide and form
Splitting the trunk
they exhibit many different designs a D-shape in cross section, and flat bows are
and materials. Some are so advanced wider than they are deep and are rectangular in
that they cannot be improved upon cross section. The advantage with flat bows is
with modern technology. Perhaps that they can be lighter and shorter, yet still just
the most famous of these is the as powerful. Therefore, we will be looking at
Holmegaard bow which was recovered how to make a flat ash longbow.
intact from a bog in Denmark. Five
foot long and made from elm, the
Holmegaard bow has been carbon Making the stave
dated back to at least eight thousand
years old. Now you have now felled your tree, the initial step
is to split the trunk into staves from which the bows
In order to make a quality bow, it will be made. Staves can also be bought online.
is a good idea to understand the
science behind bow-making. A bow In order to split the trunk into staves, you will need
is essentially a wooden spring that to use an axe to score a line that will create a split
accumulates, stores, and releases along the bark. (A knife can be used; however, I
energy. There are three factors that have found this method to be inferior). The next
will influence the bows energy: step is to make a few wooden wedges which
the draw weight, the draw length, are then driven in along the scored line. This
and the brace will eventually split the
height (which is trunk. Wooden wedges
the distance from Split staves create less damage to the
the bow to the wood than commercially
string). available metal ones.
If the brace height After splitting the trunk

is low, it means in two, repeat the process
that the string can in order to quarter the
be drawn further wood. Each stave will
back. This will then give you a bow. You
give the arrow should now have your
more energy and stave ready in order to
therefore more My stave fashion your bow. You
power; the speed can see from my face
of an arrow is that it is a most satisfying
called the cast. A experience! Europe went
high brace height through vast quantities
gives a greater of yew during the middle
degree of accuracy ages, as bows were mass-produced using this method.
and less paradoxing (wobbling) of the arrow as it flies.
There are three main steps to follow in order to create a longbow:
Conversely, there are also factors which determine the maximum these are roughing out the bow, drying, and finishing.
energy that can reach the arrow: thick limbs will drain energy
as they tend to spring back
more slowly; string stretch,
which occurs under tension,
Roughing out
will cause your bow to lose your bow
power; while the longer The initial step is to strip the bark
the bow length (limbs), the from what will be the back of the
greater the power. bow (the part that will face away from
you). Make sure that you go down
A bow needs to be as through the cambium layer, found
straight as possible when between the inner bark and the wood
un-strung. When the bow itself. If this is not removed the wood
takes on a curve due to will not dry properly, also when put
the tension of the string, it under tension, this layer can crack. At
is known as string follow. the same time, it is important not to
This phenomenon can cut into the wood underneath. Your
be observed even when bow will snap under tension if the
un-strung. String follow is Removing the cambiam layer back of the bow does not consist of
good if you are looking for the same, single growth ring.
BUSHCRAFT & survival skills magazine 9

HOW TO
Bow dimensions
On this occasion, I decided to forego a one piece ash bow. Instead,

I decided to add a walnut handle. If you choose to do this, simply
follow a single growth ring all the way down the
When you have skinned length of the bow. Then, glue on your handle using
your stave, it is time to Shaping the handle powerful wood glue. Wrap some inner tube round it
begin to rough out the as it dries to make sure it is held in place. Finally, shape
shape of the bow. On the the handle how you want it to be, and ensure it is
back of the bow, you need secure and comfortable.
to mark out your design
Drying
with a pencil. Bow designs
are many and varied, each
with their own attributes.
I advise looking online to When you are at this stage, you must be patient and
find the design that you season the wood by leaving it to dry for at least three
would like. weeks to a month. I know a bowyer who seasons his
staves for a year before finishing.
To follow the design of my
bow, the handle section
should be four inches long
and one inch wide. The Finishing
width should fade out over
another two inches to a Attaching a walnut handle After seasoning, it is time to begin the tillering
final width of at least two process. This is a process of fine tuning. Your aim is to
inches for both of the limbs. shave off increasingly smaller amounts of wood from
The limbs then continue the limbs until they both bend evenly and equally.
up the length of your bow,
tapering towards the end. Take your dry rough bow and tie or clamp it down.
Try to aim for your bow to Then, take a spoke shave tool. Shave off the excess
be in the region of six foot; wood by drawing it towards you with a sideways
however, tailor it to your motion.
own height. As I am six-
foot-one, a six-foot bow is Initially, you can freely take off quite large quantities
perfect. of wood. When you are getting a good even bend
on the limbs, a little wood makes a big difference.
The end of the bow is Remember, you can always take wood away, but you
where the notches that cannot put it back! As the picture demonstrates, by
will hold the string will eventually be cut. The bow taper should bending one limb into the ground and then the other,
be about three-quarters -of-an-inch wide at this point; later, we you are able to ascertain where you need to remove
will take it down to half-an-inch. more material.
Turn the bow over, and draw a line on the side profile. Follow one Once you are starting to get an even bend on the limbs, you need
of the growth rings three-quarters-of-an-inch from the back of the to exercise caution. Put aside your spoke shave, and use a cabinet
bow, along the belly. Remember that when you get down to the scraper. This will take microns of material off at a time, and enable
centre where your handle will be; allow an extra thickness of wood. you to really fine tune the bow. Be patient; this is the most delicate
Experiment by holding it in your hand and finding what thickness part of the entire process and can mean the difference between a
of handle feels comfortable, as it needs to be at its strongest point powerful bow and a broken stick. We know that this aspect of bow-
here. Bear in mind, your handle needs to be thick enough to resist making has been the bowyers nemesis since pre-history, as the
snapping under tension. vast majority of bows in the archaeological record have been found
broken.
By now, you should be left with a rough bow shape three-quarters
of an inch thick. To carve it out, use your knife for the finer work and The next step is to cut the notches for your string. As long as you
your axe to remove larger pieces. Follow the guide lines you have file deep enough into the edge of your bow using a round file,
drawn. they will not snap out under tension. But, dont file so deep as to
weaken the bow. Taper the notch from about three centimetres to
Shaving the bow
approximately one centimetre, as shown in the

images. Remember that each lateral side needs to
be a mirror image. Then, when viewed from the
front, the bottoms of the notches start low and
run upwards towards the tip.
The next step is to set up what is known as a

tillering station. The tillering carried out prior to
this was a crude process that evenly shaped the
bow. The final tillering is a far more delicate affair
and is where the true art of bow-making lies. Round file for notch
The tillering station is essentially a fence post

or something similar. It needs to be dug deep Notch
enough into the ground, so it is stable. Towards
the top of the post, and in a central and level
position, nail a sturdy piece of flat wood at a right
angle to the post. The piece of flat wood will act
as a brace. Temporarily string the bow with some
para-cord, and carefully place your bow centrally
on the brace. Pull on the cord, and observe the
bend. It can help at this stage to have a second
person to observe from a different angle. Then,
you can see how the limbs bend in relation to
each other.
Noting where it needs to bend more, shave off a

few microns of wood. Then, re-place your bow on
the tillering station, and repeat the process until Shaving the bow detail
you have an even bend with no hinges. Finally,
you are now ready to string your bow.
Making your own bow string is in itself an art Ascertaining where you need to
and warrants an article of its own. For the sake remove more material
of simplicity, I advise purchasing a readymade
string from a shop, quoting the type and
length of your bow. Once you have fitted your
string, you are now finally ready to loose some
arrows!
Final finishing
Now you have seen how your bow works and
you have loosed a few arrows, the final finishing
process can take place. Start with a 50/50 mix
of white spirit and linseed oil; warm them; then
apply in coats to the bow; up the percentage of
linseed oil after each coat in increments up to Tillering station
one-hundred-per-cent.
After the oils have sunk in, you can bone

the bow. The purpose of this is to seal the
fibres and make the bow denser and more
resistant to water and physical damage. Our
hunter-gatherer ancestors used to rub a
bone up and down the bow. You can do this
or use a glass bottle or smooth round stone.
Then, coat your bow in a natural varnish
containing beeswax not silicone.
Finally, if you so desire, you can bind the

handle for decoration with leather or whichever
material you prefer. Your bow is now finished
and a living piece of our history. If looked after,
it should last many years. Just remember, they
are as lethal today as they were ten-thousand-
years-ago! Time to lose some arrows

KNIVES & AXES
SHARP THINKING
We often go out with our tools sharp for a day in the woods
and some of us even carry small pocket stones for a quick
touch up of the edge whilst out and about. But what
happens if we havent got our stones and our tools get dull,
what can we do?
by Ben &
Lois Orford
H
ere are some ideas of improvised sharpening (obviously the coarser the
techniques and simpler sharpening ideas so if, or when, stone the quicker it will grind
you need to sharpen your tools when you are far from the steel away which can be a
your bench stone you can think sharp and still get the edge good thing if we are trying to change
back on your tools. the edge profile or remove any nicks and
damage from the edge).
Lets start by thinking that a sharp edge on a tool is effectively
two very polished edges meeting at a fine angle, ideally done A lot of stones sold for sharpening are natural stones
so those edges meet at the smallest edge possible so you cant mined from the ground, so we should, in theory, be able to
see where they meet. The finer the edge and finer the polish find something that will suffice when we are out in the field.
on the tool, the sharper it will be and the longer it will last. When looking for something to sharpen with, try and think of
Also, the less coarse the scratches on the edge, the finer the what you have in the environment you are in. If you have a
finish will be on the wood you are carving. Even when you are stream or river nearby or the sea you will find some really nice
at home sharpening with conventional stones this is a good cobbles and stones (smoothed by the pounding of the water)
idea to keep in mind. This is often forgotten when using bench which can produce a very good edge.
stones, as the edge that is produced can often be too coarse
the benefit that they
FIG1 are heavy enough not
to move when you are
sharpening which is a
great advantage. These
stones may also still be
damp, if not even wet,
which will help lubricate
the stone and float away
the waste steel being
removed from the tool.
It is still often the case that

native peoples will have
a communal stone down
on the beach or by the FIG3
river that has been used
for generations to sharpen
parangs or machetes. These
can often be seen to have
almost a curved face to
them after years of use and
wear.
If you are near the coast or

a sandy river then a great
method for sharpening
is to actually use the
sand to make improvised
sandpaper. This is best
achieved by finding a
waste strip of drift wood
(FIG3), ideally with a flat
For sharpening axes and convex grinds it is not so important side, and then applying a
to look for a flat surface, but try and find something that is thin coating of sand to the
comfortable to hold in your hand, with enough size so that your surface (it does help if you
fingers are not too close to the cutting edge. Ideally a smooth wet the stick first to help
stone from the edge of a stream works really well (FIG1). Try to find the sand stick) (FIG4). This
a stone with a tight, close grain as you will find this leaves a better can be great for sharpening
finish. Stones that have a very sandy consistency will work quite your knife if you manage
well but will wear quickly, this is not necessarily a bad thing as the to find a piece of driftwood
grinding paste or slurry that it forms can also work well at polishing from a pallet or other
the edge a bit like the slurry produced when using Japanese water board as it will have at least
stones. one flat side and will be a
FIG4
lot flatter than most rocks.
This will help maintain the
edge on the flat grind of
most bushcraft knives.
Try to make sure that you

draw the knife back towards
yourself away from the
cutting edge as this will
produce a better edge and
prevent the knife from
getting nicks from the larger
grains of sand (Fig5). When
you want to get a finer edge
FIG2 you will need to knock off
the heavy larger grains and
use the same stick with the
For sharpening an axe or parang if you are holding the tool still smaller grains that are left
and moving the stone remember to try and make sure you always behind. We also found,
approach the tool from behind the cutting edge. Dont hang your when we were down on the
fingers off the stone too much or you may cut them. coast, that some washed
up cuttlebone from a cuttle
You may also find some suitable sharpening stones near the edge fish was a really good, even
of larger rivers that are too big to lift or move but have some abrasive when dried. The FIG5
flat useable surfaces ideal for sharpening (FIG2). They also have underside seemed to be

KNIVES & AXES
the best part and we were very surprised at how quickly the knife your rucksack is works really well and is very light and inexpensive.
became sharp with a very fine finish. They can work really efficiently if placed onto a foam camp mat for
sharpening convex edges and on top of
As you can see, the sharpening a flat bottom of a cooking pot or mess tin
mediums you use are for flat edges. It will be a lot larger and
dependent on where you are easier to use than a pocket stone.
so just try to think clearly about We have even read of an American knife
what is available to you. We maker called Ed Fowler who carries a
have tried all sorts, from house sheet of sandpaper the size of a bank
bricks to bits of old Welsh note in his wallet and uses this on the
slate, and all have sharpened upturned heel of his cowboy boot for
to some degree - some better in the field sharpening. In a previous
than others (FIG6). Probably issue we mentioned using an old mobile
one of the best for putting a phone top up card or old bank card
very quick secondary bevel on and sticking a sheet of wet and dry
a tool is the radius top sandpaper to one side and leather to the
edge of a car window FIG6 other and carrying this in your wallet as
(FIG7). This will not a really compact emergency sharpening
remove too much steel set-up too.
but does leave a fine
edge. The window itself With all these methods the main thing to
is very similar to the grit remember is that you still want to try and
of some of the ceramic maintain the same edge geometry that
rod sharpeners that are is already on the tool you are sharpening and that it may
on the market. take slightly longer and leave not such a fine edge as you
are used to, but you can get decent results. Its a good idea
For removing the coarse to practice these methods on some old knives and tools so
edge and to help strop you have a good idea of how and what works best. You
your knife you can either can even take this to extremes if you wish and try getting
strop it on the inside an edge on something like a bit of old scrap metal, an old
of your leather belt or food can or bit of old car part with these crude stones.
even try using other fine Yes, the edge will not hold or last but you may find that
stropping compounds when it matters you will have the skills to help you get
like some cardboard, out of a tricky situation.
newspaper or clean softwood - always making sure that you
strop away from the cutting edge.
Having said all this, this is a worst case scenario and the cutting
edge you will produce will not be as good as what can be
produced from a bench stone or proper sharpening set-ups. But if
your knife is blunt then any kind of edge is going to be better than
nothing.
A good thing to add to your pack, that is very compact and light,
is some sheets of sandpaper in various grits, these can either be
stuck to a board or just loose and can be wrapped around or
placed on top of something when needed (FIG8). We find that
having a few sheets slid into the pouch where the internal frame of
FIG8
FIG7
For those of you who have read Between A Rock And A Hard
Place by Aron Ralston, (whose story was made into the film 127
Hours) and who had to amputate his arm with a two inch knife
on a multi-tool, you will understand the importance of having
a sharp knife with you or the ability to be able to sharpen it by
improvised means!
We hope this helps and remember to think laterally and have a

go at trying out things that you wouldnt at first think of.
For a video to accompany this article please go to

https://www.youtube.com/user/BenOrford
INTHENEWS
NEWS JUST INBushcraft & Survival Skills magazine celebrate their 7th birthday. To join in the fun see
page 3 for more details.
The Bushcraft Show, 24-27th May 2013

We are delighted to announce that MYKEL HAWKE, retired U.S.
Army Special Forces officer, best known for his role in the Discovery RAY GOODWIN
Channel series MAN, WOMAN, WILD will be at The Bushcraft Show
2013 on Sunday 25th May along with his co-star and wife, RUTH
ENGLAND, a British television presenter and actress.
And that is not all, we are bringing over a MASSAI WARRIOR DANCE
TROOP from Kenya, to entertain and teach you some of the Massai
ways; from cultural dancing to native beadwork find out if you
have got what it takes to be a Massai Warrior.
We also have a special guest appearance on Saturday evening,

from the living legend of British canoeing RAY GOODWIN. See
and hear his personal accounts of bushcraft and inspirational MYKEL HAWKE
wilderness canoe trips in the UK and North America.
See all of this and much more, ONLY at The Bushcraft Show 2013
-Where your hunger for adventure grows. See page 42 for more
information.
Visit www.thebushcraftshow.co.uk
Call 0333 4567 123 (option 2)
Image courtesy of Discovery Channel
Image courtesy of Discovery Channel

12year Old Boy
Braves the Element
It has been over six months since Harry ODriscoll a twelve year old RUTH ENGLAND
gymnast from Buckden, Cambridgeshire pledged to sleep outdoors in
a tent for up to a year, to raise 3000 for Huntingdons Olympic Gym. Massai Warrior Dance
Troop
He and a friend had a sleepover in a tent and out of it came the idea to
do this to raise money for the gym. Harry has trained at this gym since
he was five years old and puts in 18 hours there a week and even more
during the school holidays. The gym needs to raise 100,000 to extend
and refurbish, which will allow more children to join and provide an area
for the gyms Olympic star Louis Smith and Dan Keatings to train without
disruption from other classes.
Harry started on the 24th August 2012 and he is 90% towards his target
having already raised 2,718.67. He has made it through the recent snow
and freezing temperatures and endured his tent collapsing on multiple
occasions under the weight of the snowfall. So if you could
donate, please visit Harrys page and demonstrate
your support to this remarkable young chap.
To sponsor Harry visit COMPETITION WINNERS...

www.justgiving.com/Harry-O-Driscoll-2012
Woodlife Trails Wilderness Immersion Course Scott Gent, Halifax
(Answers: A5, B2, C1, D7, E4, F3, G8, H6)
Mora Bushcraft Black Knife Suzanne Campbell, Sussex
Outdoor Survival Manual (Haynes) Robert Dingle, Yorkshire
Win A Survival Guide for Life Peter Gibson, Staffordshire
16 BUSHCRAFT & survival skills magazine

Scouts in Slovenia
are Happy Campers
105 goodies from Bushcraft & Survival Skills magazine's
Facebook competition went to the winner Nina Opaka and her
Scout Troop in Slovenia. Here is a picture of some of the happy
campers receiving their prizes.
Dont miss out on more Facebook giveaways, like us at

https://www.facebook.com/bushcraftmagazine
SNUGPAK LAUNCHES
INNOVATIVE NEW WEBSITE
Leading British sleeping bag manufacturer,
Snugpak, has launched a brand new website
which allows anyone to view their full collection
and buy online via Snugpak retailers.
It is simple to navigate around the site and
provides the option to browse by product
category. Categories in the outdoor section
include clothing; sleeping bags; rucksacks and
travel bags; tents; and accessories. There is also
an option to search by activity, which includes
bushcraft and displays the products a person
would need for that purpose, highlighting all
new products. And, purchasing products from
Snugpak retailers via the website is simple,
thanks to the secure checkout process powered
by Shopatron.
Visit the new website for further information, where users can
The Wild Weather Book
enter the competition to win one of Snugpak's award winning
Loads of things to do outdoors
Chrysalis sleeping. www.snugpak.com
in the rain, wind and snow
By Fiona Danks & Jo Schofields
Fiona Danks and Jo Schofield are

Building Your Own Tracking writers for Bushcraft & Survival
Skills magazine and in this issue
Encyclopedia they show you how to make
This article stirred great interest, some of our readers have written rustic furniture (See p78.) This
in to share books by Jon Young such as 'What the Robin Knows' fabulous duo are also established
on bird behavior and language, which detail similar observations authors of a series of books that
as described in Jason's article in issue 42. Also recommended aim to motivate children to get
arethe works of Simon Barnes, his book 'Bird Watching With Your outdoors and now they are back
Eyes Closed' being a favorite.There are many resources available with more wonderful ideas for
online too, some of these include: fun outdoors even in the most
challenging weather!
www.birding.about.com/od/identifyingbirds/a/birdsounds.htm
www.birds.cornell.edu/physics/lessons/elementary/pdfs/tm The Wild Weather Book is their sixth fully illustrated book, and
like previous volumes it aims to entice children away from their
www.wildernesscollege.com/bird-sounds.html
screen-dominated world and into the outdoors for some real
world adventures. However, as both the Wild Weather Book and
There are a rapidly growing number of individuals with an The Stick Book are now available as eBooks you can now combine
interest in interpreting the behavior of birds, and indeed all a screen with one of their inspiring activities!
fauna, with some companies developing new techniques to
interpret the actions of our furry and feathered friends. Interest in This is the perfect book for remaining outdoors to have loads
tracking is increasing, and with it, new or varied techniquesare of fun even when the weather is wild! From running barefoot
being taught. It is great to see that a selection of companies are through squidgy mud to flying a kite in the wind, Jo and Fiona
using motion cameras and live animals to assist students in their will capture your imagination in the natural world. Dont miss our
understanding. Look out in future issues where we will bring you review on this book in the next issue. RRP 9.99 Due out 7th
more on tracking and the books and courses available. March 2013. Visit www.goingwild.net
Do you have bushcraft news that you would like to share? Email news@bushcraftmagazine.com
LOFTY'S LIFE STORIES
ANAMAZINGEXPERIENCE
One of the most rewarding times of
my military career was living with
the locals in Borneo. We were sent
there when Brunei was invaded by
Indonesia in 1963.
Written by
John 'LOFTY'
Wiseman
B
runei is an oil rich state which the Indonesians coveted, so The tribe were Ibans the fiercest tribe in Borneo, these were the
they attacked the oil fields of Seria. They were repelled but original headhunters. When we settled in they were only too
threatened to destroy the newly formed alliance of Malaysia. pleased to show us their trophies of heads, which they kept
They amassed troops all along the borders threatening Sarawak, hanging from the roof of the longhouse. Many were old tribal
Brunei and Sabah. enemies, while the most recent were Japanese soldiers whose
army had occupied a lot of the
We were country in World War Two.
deployed on
the border of Young Ibans
Sarawak and
Indonesia
in four man
patrols to give
early warning
of any pending
invasion
and to gain
intelligence,
as little was
known of the
country. To
achieve this
we had to seek
the help of the
Lofty with the locals
locals. We had
to gain their
confidence
and respect,
and the only way to do this was to live with them. The best way We were warmly
of gaining their trust was by establishing a hearts and mind welcomed by the
programme which included giving medical assistance and advice whole village, but we noticed some of the very old and youngsters
on health, farming, and security. were rather nervous. They had in fact, never seen a white man
before. They were short; smooth skinned, and the men heavily
There were no survey maps available at the time so we had tattooed. We were tall and hairy; all four of us were over six foot
to make our own. We worked from maps taken from aerial tall. We also had tattoos which made them think we were gods,
photographs which had many blank areas which were marked and they treated us as such.
down as cloud cover. These bare patches were usually exactly
over the spot we were operating in. The Dutch had mapped the Soon knowledge of our arrival spread around the area and when
Indonesian side of the border and these were to prove useful later they heard we were running a clinic, they arrived in droves. Some
when the war escalated. people in the queue that formed outside the school house were
just curious, but there were
Our pre-op briefing was very vague also many serious cases.
as little was known of the area we One man had been carried
were going in to. The curator of the for four days after his
Sarawak museum, Tom Harrison, ankle got tangled up with
gave us a sketchy picture on what a boat propeller. I smelt
to expect, particularly of the flora the injury as soon as he
and fauna. One thing that stands arrived. The wound was
out in my mind to this day was too old to suture so after
his reference to a dry leaf leech. trimming the dead flesh I
Im still disappointed that I never started him on a course of
came across such a thing, but I penicillin injections. After
did experience millions of other five days the results were
species, all wet and thirsty for amazing. It was a miracle
blood. to us let alone the patient.
From a black, stinking, life-
We flew from Brunei to Kuching, threatening wound I was
the capital of Sarawak, before pleasantly surprised when I
travelling for many hours by truck. Finally we got into a dugout removed the dressing to see a pink healthy scar. He certainly would
canoe powered by two outboard engines. Initially the river was have died from septicaemia without any treatment.
wide but gradually tapered off to a boulder strewn stream. The
two boatmen were superb at navigating between boulders and We treated many cases of cuts, fractures, the odd burn, and even
negotiating rapids. One perched in the bow giving directions, started pulling teeth. The patients rewarded us with chickens;
while the other manned the engines. Two days later we arrived at a it wasnt long before I had as many as Sun Valley Food. We let
remote longhouse called Ulu Mepi, this was to be our home for the the hens range around the kampong and to recognise them we
next four months. put badges of rank on them using gentian violet, much to the
amusement of the locals.

LOFTY'S LIFE STORIES
We considered ourselves civilised but compared to these simple Another incident that didnt go down well was when the Penghulu
tribespeople we had a lot to learn. They lived in complete harmony (chief) noticed that one of the lads was armed with a shotgun.
with each other and, more significantly, with nature. They shared This was a short barrelled pump action loaded with 9sg cartridges.
everything, worked together, and crime was non existent. We were These were steel ball bearings, deadly at close range. He invited
supposed to be the intelligent ones but we learnt so much from the lad to go hunting with him as the traditional method was
these people. Their ability to make clothes, shelter, and acquire somewhat risky and a shotgun would be useful. The way they
food from nature was impressive. hunted for wild pigs was to
go out with a pack of dogs
Everything that they required and let them pick up the
could be found in the jungle. scent. The hunter would sit
Bamboo is so useful and on a high spot waiting to
must be compared to what hear the dogs barking which
the buffalo was to the Native meant they had cornered
Americans. They made cups, a pig. The dogs would
cooking pots, rafts and even surround the pig confining
musical instruments from it, it until the hunter came,
as well as using it as building who would then dispense it
material. The young shoots with a spear mounted on a
were also part of their diet. blow pipe. This was a risky
business as the pigs were
We ate everything they prepared ferocious and many a hunter
for us, enjoying most of it. This came unstuck, impaled on
ranged from snake, fruit bat, to long sharp tusks. This day
monkey. One day a distressed the dogs did their job and
woman came running up from surrounded a large boar at
the river shouting Ula besar, ula the junction of two streams.
besar! Ula besar is Malay for big In each pack of dogs, one
snake. We went to investigate and dog was the pack leader
on the river bank was a python who was very special and
about fifteen feet long. It had took years to train. The
three large bulges adding to its dogs would take it in turns
considerable girth. It had come to keep the pig occupied,
into camp during the night, and a routine which the pack
had been rewarded with three leader organised. When my
chickens. I was anxious to see mate turned up with the
whose chickens it had swallowed. chief he casually said stand
When an Iban beheaded the back and took aim on the
snake and opened it up, two pig. The moment he fired
lance corporals and a sergeant the pack leader leapt in front
appeared! That night we had a of his barrel, getting blown
great meal of chicken and python. in half in the process. The
Penghulu collapsed with
I was only put off my food once. grief as the other dogs beat
The dish was a curried stew a hasty retreat. The boar
with meat and wild vegetables. trotted off nonchalantly. I
It was very tasty but as I got to guess some days are better
the bottom of the bowl a small than others.
hand complete with finger nails
appeared, as if trying to shake The sense of direction the
hands. Baby fatalities were locals had was astounding.
common which got me thinking, On the many patrols we
oh, what am I eating? To my carried out we depended
relief it was a small monkeys on the outward leg on the
paw. trusty compass. After a
six hour trek we used to
Not everything went to plan we say to our guide back to
did have minor set backs. One of camp. They would head
the lads decided to make the kids off in what we thought
bow and arrows. He came back was completely the wrong
chuffed after a session of target direction, but we always
practice saying how well the bows found ourselves back in
performed. The only draw back he base in hours. Their hearing,
described was the wood he used oozed a sticky white gum. The eye sight, and sense of smell were finely developed. They
alarm bells started ringing immediately and I asked him to show pointed out things that we missed and unlike us they never
me where he had cut the bows from. Sure enough he had cut tripped or fell. They thought we fell over just to make them
down some young rubber plants that the locals treasured. laugh. It was a pleasure and an honour to be with these people.
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WILDLIFE
TALESOFTHE
RIVERBANK by
Pablo, Woodlife Trails
Water vole aka Water Rat
photo by Nigel Grigsby

I dont expect that many people will remember a childrens the water vole is often compared, sometimes makes its home near
television programme called Tales of the Riverbank. It was water and can also swim very well. At first glance, they may be
a Canadian production broadcast in the UK in the 1960s and confused as one and the same animal, but they are definitely two
1970s and included characters such as Hammy the Hamster distinctly separate species. With a bit of practice you will able to tell
and Roderick the Water Rat. Probably more familiar is the the difference between the tracks, the trails and the signs and the
character Ratty from Kenneth Grahames Wind in the Willows two animals themselves.
series of books, with Mr Toad of Toad Hall fame. Despite
their names, Roderick the Water Rat and Ratty are not The water vole is the largest member of the vole family. It is about
actually water rats at all, but water voles. 29cms (11.5 inches) long from nose to tail and weighs between
150g 300g. The brown rat, for comparison, can be almost twice
S
adly, the as long. Another difference
water vole between the rat and the water
is Britains vole is the tail. The water voles
Water voles feed in the open making them good

fastest declining tail is covered with fur but the
wildlife subjects
mammal. This brown rats tail is bare and
article will give scaly. Water voles have a rich
you an insight brown coat, a round body and a
into this amazing blunt muzzle. This blunt muzzle
creature and is perhaps the voles most
help you find distinguishing feature. They also
out if there are have small ears that are normally
any water voles held close to the head. There is
around the areas a flap of skin inside each ear to
you visit. There stop water entering when the
are not many vole is swimming. When they
water voles where are eating you can see that they
I live, so I am have large, bright orange incisor
indebted to the teeth, which are self-sharpening.
observations and The teeth are used not only for
photographs of feeding but burrowing as well.
fellow Woodlife The large sized incisors are a
Trails Tracker good indicator of the difference
Nigel Grigsby, who helped me put this article together. between a water vole and a field or bank vole. These other voles
are commonly found throughout most of the UK. The incisors will
So why do people call a water vole a water rat? The name water be bigger in a water vole. If you find a skull, you can also check on
rat is probably an older common name and in many rural parts the molars to tell the difference. The water vole will have an extra
of the country the name is still in use. The brown rat, with which set of molars on each side of the skull as opposed to other voles.
Water voles have blunt noses and can swim well
In the wild, water voles are predated by a number of animals, The water voles ideal habitat consists of a river bank surrounded
which accounts for their diminishing presence in the UK. The by reeds and sedges with slow running water. They make their
American mink in particular has decimated the water vole burrows in the bank having entrances both above and below the
population, which has declined by more than 95% in the last fifty water line. Contrary to what might be in the text books, not all
years, (Source: BBC news report on the culling of American mink in water voles make their nests in a bank. Ball nests are also made out
the River Don 1 February 2011). of the surrounding vegetation. They prefer areas that are not prone
Habitually, water voles seem quite happy to sit around and almost to flooding as this could become problematic especially when they
have young in the burrows. The water vole has sensitive ears that
can detect a change in air pressure caused by rapid changes in
water levels. This acts as an early warning system to enable them to

vacate the burrows to prevent drowning.
You will be lucky to see water voles in winter. They dont hibernate
but they will stash food underground and spend a lot of their time
in nest chambers beneath the surface. These burrows and dens will
be shared for warmth even with water voles which are not related.
They wont start to surface until late February or early March, so
now is a good time to start looking.

Entrances to burrows are both above
Water voles dive into the water making a splash to and below the water line
alert others of danger
leisurely go about their daily lives. Whilst other river life spins in
turmoil around them, water voles are quite content to pick up the
odd reed or sedge and nibble on it in full view of any onlooker.
This makes them excellent subjects for wildlife watchers and
photographers. This water voles laid-back style is probably due to
the confidence of having a number of bolt-holes on the river bank
within easy reach. It can also be to their detriment as they often
get caught out by predators. If a water vole does get frightened
they will momentarily freeze, assess the danger then instead of
quietly slipping away they will splash-dive into the water to alert
other water voles of the danger. If you are walking along a bank
with known water vole activity and you hear a plopping sound
then this is probably a water vole alerting. It will probably be the
first sign that there are water voles in your area; so the sound will
be worth investigating more thoroughly.

WILDLIFE
middle three toes. As with most rodents, these middle toes are
all of similar lengths, unlike our second, third and fourth fingers.
Remember that a brown rats prints are larger and their rear toes
will not usually have the same star-shaped quality unless they are
on a slippery surface.
Water voles are one of the UKs fastest declining mammals due to
habitat loss and predation by the American mink. Where the water
Water vole
vole recognises most of the native predators such as the fox, heron,
feeding stoat, weasel and crow, it doesnt seem to know what to do when it
signs on a faces an American mink. As we discovered earlier in this article the
succulent water vole will momentarily freeze to assess the danger. It is at this
reed point when it is most vulnerable that the mink takes the advantage
and attacks. Even if the water vole does try to swim away mink are
also good swimmers and will chase the water vole even into their
burrows.
In areas of the UK where American mink have been eradicated,

The water vole likes to eat lush green reeds, grasses and sedges such as parts of north-east Scotland, there are signs of the water
but in the winter when these are scarce they will eat tree barks and voles return. This has been helped by the reforming of their
roots. They eat up to 80% of their own body weight in a day. They habitat and in places the reintroduction of the water vole itself.
use feeding stations; here you can see discarded vegetation where It has also been seen that where otters are making a comeback,
the vole has chewed down to the succulent part of the plant that water voles numbers are on the rise. American mink do not like
it is eating. Vegetation eaten by a water vole can be seen to have a otters so as soon as the otter appears the mink moves out.
45 clean angle of cut.
Water voles are now fully protected by Schedule 5 of the
Water voles are territorial during the breeding season. The females Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981. It is an offence to disturb
will patrol and occupy anywhere between 40 to 70 metres of damage or destroy their breeding or resting places or
bank and the males up to 170 metres of bank containing multiple deliberately capture, injure or kill them.
female territories. They mark their territories with latrines. They Luckily, there are a huge number of conservation and survey
have a scent gland on their flank which they use to push scent groups that are assisting this most endearing of our native
into their droppings. This can also indicate to other water voles wildlife species. After reading this, if you discover that there
the social status and even the sex of the water vole. One breeding are water voles near you, why not search online for your
female can have up to six territorial latrines. closest group and lend a hand to the return of Ratty and
Roderick to the UK's riverbanks.
Fresh water vole scat and tracks
Whats going on during

March and April
Plantlife - Celandines, wood anemones and
primroses will be flowering. Bluebells spread across
the ancient woodland floor in April.
Birds Listen out for Skylarks. Ducks mate, and the

willow warbler arrives in March. Ground nesting
birds start to nest. Cuckoo will be vocal in April and
other migrants like Swallows begin to arrive. Bird
song at its peak in April as courtship starts.
There are couple of tracks and signs that distinguishes them from
other river bank residents; although in some cases you should be Insects Insects start to hatch. Some butterflies like
careful not to confuse the signs with other voles. Homes made in the bright yellow Brimstone may be the first to take
river banks will be neat and tidy and will not have debris outside to flight. Honeybees venture out. Other insects will
of the hole as with the brown rat. The vegetation will be chewed get more active as the sun warms the air.
back around the entrance hole, sometimes described as a nibbled
lawn. Water vole scat is quite distinguishable being elongated and Aquatic - Frogspawn hatch into tadpoles in April
rounded at both ends. Fresh scat will be greenish brown, damp
and slimy while older scat will be harder and darker. Scat may be Mammals Hares box in the fields in March. Badger
left in prominent places even on discarded items left by humans. cubs above ground and fox cubs start to explore in
April.
Water vole footprints are reasonably easy to distinguish. There are
four toes on the front paw and five on the rear. The rear track is of Trees Sap in full flow in early March. Look out for
a similar shape to human fingers although of course much smaller; catkins. Leaves unfurling. Still a risk of frost and
but the first and fifth toes stick out almost at right angles to the snow.
SURVIVAL PLANTS
FIVESURVIVALPLANTS
There are many edible wild plants. Leaves, shoots, flowers, So this consideration should also
berries, nuts, seeds, roots, and bark of different plants inform the types of plant foods we
and trees can provide us with some form of sustenance at prioritise when living off the land.
different times of the year.
It is interesting to note
W
hats more, foraging is fashionable, having featured that the fallback food
on several TV programmes in recent years. Wild foods Hadza hunter gatherers by
are even showing up on restaurant menus. Whether from Tanzania resort to
harvesting from nearby hedgerows or purchasing from a local when more preferred Paul Kirtley,
market, many people are taking a greater interest in wild foods foods are not available Frontier Bushcraft
gathered from the countryside. are underground tubers
of vines. These tubers are
But there is a big difference between nibbling on some tasty underground storage organs (USOs) which contain carbohydrate
wayside morsels and being able to live from the land. For a given in the form of starch and are generally available all year round.
environment, living from the land requires a detailed knowledge
of the food resources available as well as the hunting, fishing and
foraging skills to utilise those resources. This takes a long time to Five Plant Foods To Look
learn.
Out For
So, if you do need to keep yourself alive from what you can forage,
Four of the five foods featured in this article are roots, tubers or
you are starting from a tough position. What you need to learn
rhizomes. All of these are USOs. While different, they all serve a
first then, in order to feed yourself at least for a little while, are
similar purpose, the storage of energy so the plant can grow and
plants that are:
complete its lifecycle. This energy, preferably stored in the form of
Easily Identified starch or other digestible carbohydrate, is what we want to get at.
Widely Distributed
Relatively Common
Easily Processed A Simple Rule
Available (for a good portion of the year)
Providers (of a favourable return on energy invested)
Energy Requirements
Not eating anything for three weeks may be survivable if you are
rescued in week four and taken to hospital. There youll be fed
intravenously because your digestive system will have stopped
working. Studies have shown that you are much better off getting
some food even a small amount - into your system on a daily
basis than eating nothing at
all for an extended period
of time. This will keep your
digestive system from
shutting down completely. One of these USOs is edible raw. The
other two are toxic. All were growing
Its also important to right next to each other, in the same small
Photo: Amanda Quaine
understand that if you volume of soil.

eat the right sort of food,
it will help you burn your
bodys fat reserves more
efficiently. Studies have Because USOs are not visible above ground,
shown that consuming we need to take some care to make sure we
just 500 calories of starchy, have collected the correct one, not some
carbohydrate-filled plant Hadzabe women digging for tubers (note the underground part of another plant growing
food per day will maintain small pile in the bottom left of the picture). nearby:
your digestive functions and Tanzania, East Africa.
provide enough energy to a) Since you can see only the aerial parts of
significantly reduce muscle the plant the parts which are above ground
loss compared to eating nothing. Youll stay stronger for longer - you need to become familiar with these parts and be able to
and if you are successful with fishing or trapping, youll also be positively identify the plant from them;
able to take on board the full value of these foods too. b) When digging up the underground parts, you should keep the
aerial parts of the plant attached. This way, you definitely have the The parts we are primarily interested in for survival food are the
underground parts of the plant you have positively identified and ropey rhizomes at the base of the plant. These rhizomes grow
nothing else. horizontally from the base of the plant and eventually allow
new shoots to grow upwards. The energy required for this new
Cattail growth is stored as starch in amongst the fibres at the core of

each rhizome. For us, they also have the advantage of providing a
source of year-round food.
Greater reedmace, Typha latifolia, and lesser reedmace, Typha
angustifolia, are both wetland plants that look very similar. They Analysis shows that when the rhizomes are processed into flour,
are commonly referred to as cattails due to the shape of their around 52% is available carbohydrate and 9% protein. This flour
flowers/seed-heads. Cattails are widely distributed around the provides around 266 kcal per 100g. Cattail rhizomes are therefore a
Northern Hemisphere. They also occur in South America and highly valuable source of carbohydrates and energy.
parts of Africa, as well as having been introduced to many other
territories, where they are often considered an invasive weed. You dont need to process them into flour, however, to obtain
their energy benefit. The starch is at the fibrous core of the
rhizomes and this is surrounded by a spongy layer with a skin
on the outside. Simply place the rhizomes on a bed of embers
and cook them until they are blackened and the spongy layer
has withered. This takes around 15-20 minutes.
Once cooked, break open the rhizome with your fingers,

exposing the fibres in the centre and suck the starch from
them. It is somewhat sweet, with the taste like a cross
between sweet potato and roasted chestnut.
To absolutely positively identify cattail plants, you must look

at the cross-section of the leaf. It should be a shallow crescent
shape, like a new moon. If it is any other shape, it is not cattail.
A stand of cattail growing in a water-filled depression in

Ontario, Canada.
The plants grow in shallow water and wet mud at the margins
between land and bodies of water. They will grow in slightly salty
water but are predominantly freshwater plants. Greater reedmace
in particular tends to out-compete other species and can grow to
dominate an area. This might not be great for your garden pond
but it is fantastic if you are relying on them for food.
When mature, they are tall plants, reaching over 2 metres (6 feet),
with long, green strap-like leaves. They form a distinctive brown
structure (the female flowers) towards the top of a long, straight
A stand of cattail growing in a water-filled depression in
central stem. Some people see a resemblance to cigars, others to
Ontario, Canada.
sausages. Later, these are filled with a mass of downy seeds.
Cattails have many uses and several parts of the plants are edible.
Another plant species with leaves that look similar to cattail are
Iris pseudacorus, or yellow flag. It grows in shallow water and
damp or swampy ground, often alongside cattail. Yellow flag
also has rhizomes. To the experienced, the rhizomes of each
plant are very different but to the inexperienced there is the
potential to make a mistake. Yellow flag rhizomes, like the rest
of the plant, are poisonous if ingested and its sap can cause
skin irritation.
When a yellow flag plant is in flower, it is quite obviously

not a cattail but this particular distinction is only clear for
a short period of the year. We need a more widely-applied
way of telling the plants apart. Looking at the cross
section of a yellow flag leaf, you will see it is quite different
An extensive area of cattail growing in the shallows of a lake in to that of a cattail leaf. The yellow flag leaves have a cross
East Sussex, UK. section that has a central diamond-shaped rib with a very
thin leaf structure either side.

SURVIVAL PLANTS
Cattails are the single most important plant-based survival

food in the Northern Hemisphere. You should get to know
these plants.
Burdock
Like cattails, there are two burdock species we should
consider. For the purposes of survival food, we can treat them
as one. Greater burdock, Arctium lappa, and lesser burdock,
Arctium minus are quite closely related to thistles. This
familiar relationship is most easily seen in the flowers.
A stand of yellow flag plants growing in the shallow

water at the edge of a lake in East Sussex, UK.
The flowers of burdock resemble the flowers of

thistles.
The cross section of yellow flag is very thin except for a

central diamond-shaped rib.
Comparing the leaf cross-section is a highly reliable way to tell

the two plants apart. And remember, you must recover the cattail
rhizomes while they are still
attached to rest of the plant,
including the leaves you
have positively identified.
You absolutely must not
reach down and pull out The leaves of lesser burdock growing in Ontario,
of the water or mud any Canada.
structures that you think are
from the cattail plants. Not
only could there be yellow
flag rhizomes down there,
there could also be the roots
of hemlock water-dropwort,
Oenanthe crocata, which has
been the cause of many fatal
plant poisonings.
While the potential proximity

to poisonous plants may put
Make sure you remove the you off cattails, it shouldnt.
cattail plant in one piece. They are easily identifiable,
The rhizomes are the widely distributed, common,
orangey-brown structures easily processed, available
at the base of the plant. year-round and provide a The leaves of greater burdock growing in East
very favourable return on Sussex, UK.
energy invested.
The leaves of burdock on the other hand are quite different to
those of thistles. Burdock leaves are large, quite flat and heart-
shaped, with wavy edges. They more resemble rhubarb than
thistles.
Burdock has a wide geographical distribution in temperate parts

of the world with these species being found throughout Europe
and in Russia, the Middle East and Asia. Burdock is popular in Asian
cuisine. Both lesser and greater burdock are thought to have been
introduced to North America from Europe. Lesser burdock is by far
the more common of the two in North America, where it is known
as common burdock.
One of the most important things to understand about burdock is

that it is a biennial. This means the plants complete their life cycle The reward for your effort is a significant amount of
over two years. In the first year they put out big leaves that act like food
solar panels, collecting energy from the sun by photosynthesis.
This energy is stored as starch in a large root. The plants leaves die
back over winter but in the second year of life, the plant uses the
energy in its root to send up a tall flowering stem, on which will be add to a stew or soup. If you are without cooking apparatus, you
the plants prickly seeds. These seeds are then spread and the two- can cook them whole under the fire but it takes several hours for
year process is repeated by new plants. them to cook through.
Pignut
The pignut, Conopodium majus, is common in many parts of
Europe and its range extends to North Africa. Pignuts grow in open
woods and in well-established (and ungrazed) grassland. In the
woods they like to grow in areas that receive a reasonable amount
of sunlight. On bright spring days youll spot pignut leaves in areas
of dappled sunlight, often right beside the trail you are walking
along. The plant likes well-drained soil.
Again, it is the underground part of the plant, specifically the
tuber, we are most interested in. The tuber is edible all year round.
Pignuts are one of the more palatable wild foods. The tuber can
be eaten raw and is very tasty. In flavour and consistency pignuts
are something like celery heart crossed with raw hazelnut or sweet
Removing burdock roots from the ground requires
chestnut and sometimes have a spicy aftertaste of the sort you get
the use of a digging implement.
from radishes or watercress. Pignuts can also be added to soups
and stews to increase carbohydrate content.
It is the root that we are interested in as food. This USO is a good

source of the carbohydrates we are looking for. It will have most
energy in it from towards the end of the first summer through to
the beginning of the second spring. Plants with flowering stems
either developing or developed will be in the second year, so we
will ignore these. Plants with broad rosettes of large leaves and
no flowering stem - are in their first year of growth and the ones
we are looking for.
The one downside of seeking out burdock as a source of food is

that it can take a bit of effort to dig up. The plants typically like to
grow in ground that is reasonably hard and the tap root tends to be
long and very well fixed. You certainly cannot just pull it up! In the
absence of a shovel, you should make and employ a digging stick.
Break up the ground with the stick then scoop out the loose earth
with your hands. Leaves of pignuts beside a footpath in County
Durham, UK.
Burdock roots contain a significant proportion of inulin a form
of plant energy that is indigestible by humans. But the roots also
contain accessible energy, around 72 kcal per 100g (raw, not dried),
with 17g of carbohydrate and 1.5g of protein. This is a very similar Pignuts have been found at archaeological sites dating back to the
profile to the potato. Mesolithic era. There are also accounts of pignuts being utilised for
food in times of famine during the eighteenth century.
You can eat burdock roots raw (like a carrot) but they are typically The first opportunity youll have to gather pignuts is in the early
cooked. Cut them into batons then stir fry them or slice thin then spring when you see the leaves appearing. As the plant flowers

SURVIVAL PLANTS
in late spring/early summer, location and identification continues If you keep the leafy shoot of the pignut connected with the tuber
to be easy until the flowering stem dies back. After this time, then you have a positive identification. Achieving this, however, is
however, there is no above-ground sign of the plant unless you quite fiddly. The tuber is typically 10-20cm under ground and the
leave markers. shoot gets thinner and thinner as you get closer to the tuber. It is
very easy to break it and detach one from the other. Pulling the
nut out of the ground by the shoot is out of the question. Also,
the shoot usually comes out of the side of the tuber then bends
at right angles to continue its journey upwards and out of the
ground. So as you follow the shoot down to the tuber, this makes
it harder to identify the tuber itself as it is rarely where you think it
might be.
The flowering stem of pignut. May, East Sussex, UK.
The pignut is in the carrot family, or apiaceae, and the leaves

do bear some resemblance to carrot, at least in structure. As
a general rule you should be wary of this family of plants as it
contains some very poisonous plants such as Hemlock, Conium Keep the leafy shoot of the pignut connected with
maculatum, and Hemlock Water Dropwort, Oenanthe crocata. The the tuber for positive ID.
pignut is relatively easy to recognise from its aerial parts, partly
due to their small size compared to other members of the carrot
family. The leaves are finely divided, delicate and lacy. Even though getting a pignut out of the ground can be a little
fiddly, it doesnt take much energy. You also often find many
plants growing in close proximity, so you can gather quite a few
in a small area. To get the tuber out of the ground, carefully dig
down next to the stem with a pencil-sized stick until you locate the
tuber. The outer surface of the tuber is a maroon colour, although
it will be covered in soil when first removed from the ground. This
outer skin is easily removed, revealing the creamy inner flesh. If
you do this properly, you dont need to wash the pignut or employ
any other cleaning. You can then just eat it straight away.
The finely divided, delicate leaves of pignut. March,

County Durham.
Also, in terms of distinguishing a pignut from its relatives,

the tuber is unlike other members of the family. Pignuts are
very un-carrot-like, typically being roughly spherical in shape.
Generally, the tubers are around the size of a hazelnut or a
little larger but can be found to be around 3cm (1.25 inches) in The outer skin is easily removed.
diameter.
Silverweed is both widespread and common, often forming
extensive carpets. Usefully it can grow in relatively poor soils
where other plants struggle. Again it is the underground storage
organs of the plant that contain valuable starch. Like pignuts they
are small but not particularly difficult to dig up although harder
to separate from soil than pignut and also grow together with
many other plants of the same species. The method of excavation
is different to pignuts too. Using a larger digging stick, loosen a
whole area of soil and separate the plants from the soil. In sandy or
shale soil, where the plant often likes to grow, this isnt so difficult.
In heavier soils it can be harder to separate the roots from clumps
of mud.
The plant forms one or more storage roots containing starch.

These roots are individually quite small, averaging around 5mm
Ready to eat. in diameter and 1 to 3cm in length. Raw they are quite crunchy.
Cooked they have a taste of their own that resembles parsnip
blended with sweet potato. The best time to collect the roots is at
Silverweed the end of the summer/beginning of autumn as the leaves start
to turn brown and wither. The roots are still available through the
Silverweed, Potentilla anserina, is native right around the winter but with the plant leaving no above-ground indication of
temperate Northern Hemisphere. It is a low-growing member of their presence, they are hard to find.
the rose family with a five-petalled yellow flower similar to many
other cinquefoils. The plant has long, creeping stems and the Records indicate silverweed was until relatively recently a very
leaves are divided into as many as a dozen pairs of leaflets. The important source of food from as far east as Yakutia in the Russian
leaflets are serrated around their edges. Federation to the Pacific coast of North America in the west.
Silverweed was noted as an important food for Tibetans by

travellers in the early twentieth century, who observed that the
plant was often dug up and eaten or dried and stored for later use.
Silverweed was a staple food for the coastal peoples of what is

now British Columbia, Canada. Small amounts were steamed
in a box while large amounts were roasted in a pit. The roots
were also dried then pounded into flour. While not farmers as
per the modern
understanding of the
word, these people
cultivated swathes of
silverweed.
Silverweed leaves are divided into Closer to home,

pairs of leaflets. in the Hebrides
and elsewhere in
northern Britain,
silverweed was
cultivated until the
introduction of the
potato. It was later
Silverweed leaves are easily picked out here as they fallen back upon as
are caught by the wind. Co. Clare, Ireland. a food source during
famines caused by
potato blight.
History has proven these diminutive USOs can indeed provide an

important survival food.
The silver-green sheen of silverweed leaves.

Stinging Nettle
For most people stinging nettle, Urtica dioica, needs no
introduction. Personally, my earliest definite memory of the
stinging power of nettles is from when I was about seven and fell
Silverweeds leaves are what give rise to this plants name, being a off my bike into a large patch of the plants. Im sure I had been
silver-green on the topside while underneath, where they have a stung by nettles before this point, but this incident really stuck in
silky fur of fine hairs, they are grey-silver. This makes the leaves very my mind!
easy to spot when the breeze catches and turns them over.
Urtica dioica is native to Europe, North Africa and Asia and was

SURVIVAL PLANTS
introduced to North America by colonists. The plant likes nitrogen To render the leaves edible, then, all you need to do is add them
rich soils. You may have noticed old derelict cottages and farm to boiling water for a minute or two, longer if you wish although
houses surrounded by a sea of nettles. This is due in part to they eventually turn to a green sludge. The taste of the leaves is
urination which increases the nitrogen levels in the soil in the area somewhat like spinach although the texture is rougher. You can
around habitation. This means that you dont see stinging nettles also add the leaves to soups and stews. The best leaves are the
as much the further away from habitation you get. But it is still a tender young shoots in spring which supply a welcome dose of
common and widespread plant. greens at this time of year.
This is the only plant of the five in this article that we are not Later in the year, when plants are more mature, take the top four
interested in for an underground storage organ. Nettles are or six leaves. If you boil the leaves on their own, the water makes a
high in protein for a green plant. Dried, the leaves can be up good tea, which contains iron and other nutrients from the nettles.
to 25% protein by weight. Nettles also contain a whole host of Beware as plants become older particularly after they flower as
other nutrients, including iron. They are easy to collect, easy to they become gritty, containing particles that can cause urinary
prepare, filling and highly nutritious. tract irritation.
If you dont have a cooking pot, you can simply

wilt the nettles over a fire. Take plants that have
stems long enough to hold them over the fire
without burning yourself. Wilt the leaves over
the fire then pick them off the stem. I find they
are most tasty when a little crispy. The flavour
is quite different to when the leaves are boiled.
Even if you do have a cooking pot, nettles
wilted like this can make a nice change from
boiled leaves.
Five Plants
To Get To
Tender young nettle shoots such as these are
generally the best. Kent, UK in March. Know
The five plants in this article are easily identifiable, widely
It is the fine hypodermic-like hairs on the plants leaves and stem distributed, common, easily processed, between them
that allow histamine and formic acid to be injected into your skin provide food year-round and provide a very favourable
and cause irritation. All it takes is a small time boiling or exposed to return on energy invested. From a survival perspective, they
flame to wilt the hairs and disable the stings. should be at the top of your list of plants to learn.
But before you put this article down and

head out to forage, please make sure you
follow the law. In the UK, unlike picking
leaves from a plant, under the Wildlife
and Countryside Act, 1981 uprooting a
plant is illegal without the landowners
permission, even if you are collecting for
personal consumption. This means for
four of the five plants above you need to
have the landowners permission if you
are to practice your foraging skills.
I would also recommend anyone involved

or interested in collecting wild foods
in the UK to read and understand the
Botanical Society of the British Isles Code
of Conduct for the Conservation and
Enjoyment of Wild Plants, which gives a
good overview of the relevant legislation
Nettle stem and leaves wilted straight over the fire. and ethical considerations of foraging,
found at this address
www.bsbi.org.uk/Code_of_Conduct.pdf
TICK BITE PREVENTION
TICKS:VAMPIRESORJUSTAPIECE
OFNATURALJIGSAW?
by,
Wendy Fox
of tick-borne disease
charity BADA-UK shines a
spotlight on ticks.
Wood Tick
Tobik
on skin
Engorged tick
As the warmer weather approaches, many

of us will be more inclined to get out and It was his own experience with the
enjoy the great outdoors. Inevitably, disease that persuaded Ray to become
there are health and safety aspects Patron of Borreliosis & Associated
that we should be aware of, such as Diseases Awareness UK (BADA-
preparing for adverse weather or UK) in 2010. He's been teaching
protecting against sunburn, but how outdoor skills for almost 30
many people think about ticks when years but noted that in recent
it comes to getting out and about? years more people around him,
particularly outdoor professionals,
S
ome have described ticks as were contracting the disease. "I feel
"vampires" or "the scourge of the D. Kucharski K. Kucharska
that there is not enough awareness
countryside", but are they really that of Lyme disease in this country,
dangerous? The press would have us believe given the fact that in rare cases it may
so, with headlines such as, "Alert over rise in Tick under microscope become chronic", he warns.
killer ticks", or "The European invader that's after
your blood". Although not quite relatives of Dracula, Around 3,000 people contract Lyme disease
lurking in every darkened corner, ticks are blood-sucking parasites in the UK each year. Many will make a full recovery but, if
and they can transmit a range of diseases to people, domestic not diagnosed and treated promptly, the disease may cause
animals and wildlife. permanent tissue damage resulting in long-term symptoms and,
for some, disability.
Lyme disease (Borreliosis) is a bacterial infection transmitted via a
tick bite. Cases have been on the increase for a number of years As Chair of BADA-UK, I have met a number of people who were
and research from the School of Biological Sciences, University of left permanently disabled by Lyme disease and I can also speak
Bristol, published in January 2012, suggests that the prevalence from personal experience. My own infection was not diagnosed
of Lyme disease bacteria in the UK tick population is considerably or treated promptly, so had the opportunity to become deep-
higher than recent estimates indicated. seated within my central nervous system, heart and other
organs. Despite treatment, it caused irreversible damage,
As a victim of Lyme disease, TV survival expert Ray Mears knows leaving me a paraplegic, visually impaired and with other health
firsthand how debilitating an infection can be. issues. From the bite of a tiny tick, that's a lot of consequences.
"The pain I had in my back was so bad that if I sneezed I almost For me, what is perhaps most difficult to come to terms with is
blacked out", he recalls. "I was getting to the point where I was the fact that these effects were almost certainly avoidable, had I
going to have to think about doing something different for work". known some basic facts about ticks. Like many people, I had been
told that the most important thing about tick removal was to get
But antibiotic treatment gave Ray a new lease of life. "I could go to the tick to back out itself, so that the mouth parts would not be
the gym and exercise with no problem and do anything I wanted", left in the skin, but this is out-of-date advice. What I didn't realise
he says. was that burning, freezing or smothering a tick in substances such
Tick and radiating lesion
as petroleum jelly, oils and spirits, may result in the tick
regurgitating infective fluids before it backs out or dies. It's
a pity I didn't know that when I was merrily burning off ticks
with a cigarette.
Current recommendations
for tick-removal are:
1. With a tick-removal tool (studies have demonstrated
the ones designed like a crochet hook to be the most
effective, especially with the tiny sub-adult ticks) and the
manufacturer's instructions should always be followed.
Falk
2. With fine-pointed tweezers (grasping the tick as close
to the skin as possible and steadily pulling / levering the
tick outwards without jerking or twisting. Twisting with Tick removal with O'Tom
tweezers exerts too much pressure on the mouth parts
and they may break off, whereas some tick removers are
designed to twist without this risk).
Removal with fingers may risk compression of the tick's

body, squeezing out infective fluids, and squashing or
scratching off a tick may spill these fluids. Additionally, some
ticks carry infective agents which can enter through breaks
in the skin.
The retrospective knowledge that I and other founding

members of BADA-UK gained was the catalyst for the
BADA-UK
creation of the charity. To date BADA-UK is the only
proactive tick-borne disease public
education programme in the UK.
A self-funded and volunteer-
run organisation, we take
into account that not 2. Use a repellent reading the instructions
everyone lives in the digital carefully - there is currently no vaccine to defend
world. Although we do against Lyme disease so prevention is key.
provide a comprehensive
website and use social 3. Carry a tick remover - by having a tick
media to disseminate remover (and antiseptic wipes) with you,
information on disease any attached ticks can be removed sooner,
prevention, we also take lessening the chance of disease transmission.
our educational materials
to outdoors pursuit events, 4. Tuck your trouser legs into your socks - this
agricultural and country helps to deter ticks from crawling inside your
shows and pet shows across trouser legs, down into shoes and through most
the UK. socks. Wearing gaiters will also help to prevent
this. Light-coloured clothing makes it easier to see
BADA-UK also organises Tick ticks on it.
Bite Prevention Week, this year
from the 24th - 30th March. The week promotes simple, sensible 5. Take a walking stick with you - where you cant stick to the
precautionary measures and features, amongst other things, 'Top centre of paths to avoid ticks on overhanging vegetation, you
Tick Survival Tips' from Ray Mears: can use a stick to tap the vegetation ahead of you, knocking off
any waiting ticks.
6. Check your body carefully

for ticks after being
outdoors, taking special
care to check all over the
body.
7. Dont bring ticks home -

1. Know where to expect ticks - many areas in the UK with good check clothing and pets for ticks to avoid bringing them inside.
ground cover and diverse wildlife (such as squirrels, hedgehogs,
birds and deer) can pose a potential risk as wildlife feeds any 8. Carefully remove ticks - use a specialist tick-removal tool or fine-
ticks and allows their population to increase. Animals also tipped tweezers.
transport ticks to new areas.

TICK BITE PREVENTION
9. Protect your pets - talk to your Ixodes ricinus

vet about tick treatments.
10. Be a Tick Buddy - you

can help your companions by
checking for ticks in places they
cant see, such as the back of the
head and behind their ears.
BADA-UK
Of course the bite prevention tips
offered by BADA-UK are a general
guide as it is impossible to take h tick on finger
Adult female and nymp
all occupations and hobbies into
consideration. Short of wearing
a frog suit, it is impossible to
completely deter ticks. We realise that taking part in activities like
deer-stalking or wildlife watching, for example, mean the use of
camouflage or darker clothing. However, this also means that ticks
are not likely to be as visible as they would be on light-coloured
clothing, but that's unavoidable. It is therefore advisable to check
yourself as regularly as possible. A shower or bath at the end of
the day is a good opportunity for a thorough look in all your nooks
and crannies. The more you check, the more likely you are to find a
tick before it attaches, or soon after. The longer the tick is allowed
to feed the more saliva it pumps in to numb the bite area, keep
the blood flowing and prevent inflammation. Each drop of saliva
potentially carries a range of infective agents and some people can
contract multiple infections from a single bite.
Marek R. Swadzba
You may actually be happy wandering the countryside in a frog
suit (each to their own) but for most of us it's preferable to just
take precautions and to do a regular tick check.
Prior to becoming infected myself, I was in the "it won't happen

to me" and "I've been out and about all my life and never had a Life cycle I. ricinus
problem" club. But it can and does happen and maybe it could be
you next time. I have not let my experience spoil my enjoyment
of the outdoors and still like nothing better than a bit of wildlife
photography.
Wendy Fox BADA-UK
natural body odour. They have also evolved with a unique

receptor in their mid gut just for the Lyme disease bacteria. That's
remarkable!
Ticks are not the scourge of the countryside, they are part of the
jigsaw which forms the natural world, but they can inflict a nasty
bite - something we all should be aware of!
To learn more about Tick Bite Prevention visit

www.tickbitepreventionweek.org
Ticks, although repulsive, are fascinating. For instance, they have To find out more about Lyme disease and other tick-
a special organ located on each of their front legs which intercept borne infections in people and pets visit
microscopic chemical molecules in the air from our breath and www.bada-uk.org
PHOTOGRAPHY
PICTUREPERFECT
Part 1 - Cameras & Equipment
by Andy Childs,
Over the next four issues I will be looking into the world of Although every camera
digital photography and sharing some advice to help you is capable of capturing Photographer/Designer -
understand cameras and create better photos whilst you such achievements, ClockworkCloud MEDIA
are out on your bushcraft adventures. I will be covering there are a few main
the areas of equipment, how to use a camera and its points you need to ask
functionality, the basics of photography and finally we will yourself.
delve a little deeper into advanced techniques and styles.
Do I want simplicity from my camera or a creative tool to create
In this issue I will start by looking at the five main different options advanced photography, or maybe both?
of cameras available on the market, explaining the pros and cons
of the specific types to help you understand what they offer, why What size do I want to print my final images? Am I looking to
one category is better than the other, and why you should be create a scrap book and share my images online, or do I want to
carrying one in your kit bag! I will also briefly look into the range of create gallery size prints?
essential equipment needed to capture the perfect shot. How compact do I want my camera? Is carrying my camera in my
jacket pocket a must, or am I happy to carry a shoulder bag or even
Advances in digital photography over the last several years have a large rucksack?
resulted in cameras ranging from small to large, and all with
amazing capabilities and very impressive image quality. The How much weight am I prepared to carry to create the
main advantage of digital over film photography is the ability to photography I desire? Is the added weight of a heavy camera, lens
view instant results, and not have to wait for the images to be and accessories worth the extra strain on my back, or is this a small
developed. While some would argue that this has taken a certain price to pay for breathtaking images?
sparkle and magic away from todays photography, as well as
What is my budget and how much am I prepared to spend on a
the main advantage of instantly viewable images, the reduced
camera and equipment? Will this be a one-off investment or will
wastage created by not having to develop poor, incorrect shots is
I acquire my equipment little by little and build my dream setup
a real bonus and digital has opened up the appeal of photography
over time?
to many new users.
How much time am I willing to invest to become a better
Unless you are a specialist or a true fan of the old-school film photographer and make the best of my camera?
process, if you are looking to purchase a new camera today,
your options will all be digital. With so many to choose from its In what environment will I mainly use my camera? Do I require
important to understand what you are trying to achieve with your any specialist options from my camera? Will it need to be weather
camera. Some people want simplicity and a way to capture family, sealed, dust and shock proof?
friends and travel, while others see the camera as a creative tool to
manipulate light to create wonderful and breathtaking art. As you can see, asking these simple questions will certainly result in
different cameras for different peoples needs and it is important to
make the decision carefully.
Any camera can take great landscape photos, but its up to

you to go out and find them!
DSLR & LENSES
The DSLR (Digital Single Lens Reflex) camera is by far
the most versatile and creative tool of all the cameras
available. You can own a simple single camera body and
one lens setup, or you can invest thousands on a multi
lens setup with all the accessories to create a fully flexible,
integrated camera system.
It is possible to own a consumer level DSLR for very

reasonable money, and with kit lenses (the lens that is usually
supplied with the camera at purchase) now being very good
quality, it is a serious contender for people who want to have
maximum creativity, very high image quality and the ability to
learn and advance their camera skills.
DSLRs are equipped with very large and high quality sensors,
offering many megapixels. Digital photographs are made
up of millions of tiny, tile-like image elements called pixels.
A megapixel is one million pixels, the more megapixels the
bigger the image produced. DSLRs give superb image quality
in most lighting situations. The lenses are interchangeable giving
the owner the option to choose from a range of focal lengths Lenses:
and lens speeds to build a camera setup that suits them. The All DSLR cameras require a lens to be fitted to
image is taken by looking through a viewfinder and seeing the accomplish a picture. Spend money wisely on lenses, you
exact image through the lens, the image is reflected using an don't have to buy very expensive lenses to have great image
internal mirror and pentaprism/pentamirror so the user can quality, but buying a very expensive DSLR body and then buying
physically view what he or she is taking through the lens. It is the cheapest lens possible is not the best idea. The lens is
also possible to view and compose images using live-view on the essentially the eye of the camera and the camera body is where
cameras LCD screen as you would on a compact point and shoot the image is processed onto the sensor and saved. Poor quality
camera or even your mobile phone camera. optics will always result in lower quality images than putting a
good lens on a basic budget DSLR.
A DSLR is a camera that does require some skill to use. The user
is in charge of controlling the camera settings to create the end Areas to look at when considering a lens are:
result, either by making initial settings and leaving the camera Focal length, wide-angle (how wide a view does the lens offer
to calculate the rest, or making full use of the manual settings to and how much of what you are seeing will it capture?)
capture the image exactly how they want it to be. Telephoto (how much zoom does it offer and how close can you
The amount of controls, settings and buttons on a DSLR can get to the subject without moving?)
be at first a little overwhelming, but most people who own, or Maximum aperture (covered more in the next issue) how much
are interested in purchasing, a DSLR usually want to learn or light can the lens gather for fast low light shutter speeds and
progress their photography skills. It is however possible to treat how de-focused can it make the non essential part of the image
today's DSLRs as oversized point and shoot-style cameras. While by pulling the main subject from its background?
setting the camera in automatic mode and allowing the camera Image Stabilisation - some modern lenses now offer this option
to create the settings for you is an option, it does take away the to remove camera shake caused by hand movement. This works
user experience of mastering the settings to capture the image very well, however it can only work to a certain degree and it
for yourself. is most important to keep the camera as still as possible at all
times, especially when light is at a minimum.
Whilst the DSLR offers the most creativity and image quality, it
is the bulkiest and heaviest of the camera styles, a point worth The DSLR and its lenses are by far the best option for the person
considering. who requires the maximum quality and flexibility from a camera.
MIRRORLESS INTERCHANGEABLE-LENS CAMERA

This is a reasonably new member to the camera line-up, it is essentially a DSLR but
without the pentaprism/pentamirror, the part that reflects the image to the viewfinder.
The designers have removed this bulky top/centre part of the camera system, resulting
in DSLR quality from a body almost as small as a compact. There are however a few
disadvantages, smaller batteries result in less shooting time, auto focus has been known
to be a little slower than a DSLR (although still very good) and my personal disadvantage
is having no option to compose the image through an actual viewfinder. Removing the
bulk from the camera has made a real viewfinder impossible to incorporate, and for me,
the ability to hold the camera to my eye and compose an image in this way is essential to
my shooting style. But for a lightweight portable option that offers a high level of image
quality with all the control of a DSLR, a mirrorless interchangeable lens camera is a superb option!
BUSHCRAFT&&survival
BUSHCRAFT survivalskills
skillsmagazine 39
magazine 39
PHOTOGRAPHY
BRIDGE CAMERA
Bridge cameras in my opinion are a bit of a dying breed, but while but not as bulky as a DSLR, it consists of a fixed zoom lens, usually
there are still new models being released they are very much an offering from very wide to a reasonably long zoom in one package. A
option to consider. The bridge camera offers the user a reasonably good overall option, but it is difficult to have everything built into one
large image sensor (resulting in good quality images), with full manual single camera, so this system offers a lot, but trying to offer so much
controls, letting you be very flexible and creative, as if you were using makes it good but not great in any specific area.
a DSLR. Offering a compact body, not being as small as a true compact
COMPACT CAMERA
The compact camera is a trusted companion to many. The ability Although not
to offer stunning images from a camera that slips easily into a as flexible as
jacket pocket, they will always be a friend to any keen snapper. some cameras, a
Although technology has enabled these little cameras to be very lot of compacts
creative, flexible and produce great image quality, they will never offer the ability
match (or at least not at the moment) the quality and creativeness to adjust and
of its bigger brothers. What you lose in image quality and customise
creativeness, you gain in portability and size. Don't get me wrong, settings to create
these little cameras produce excellent quality images and for a lot more technical and creative images.
of people this is enough. But for the person who craves the best Most have a range of scene settings, making it easy to capture a
image quality and true creativeness, one of these just won't be specific photo situation with ease, ideal for when you just want
sufficient. to capture great but quick photos along the way. Most have large
LCD screens, some even have touch screen resulting in a lot less
Lenses are fixed to the camera, so what you choose when physical on-camera buttons. Compacts offer a good lens, high
purchasing is the lens you will have for the life of the camera. image quality/megapixel sensor, great portability, built in flash
Most of these cameras offer a very broad lens, from very wide and total ease of use. It is also possible to get a range of specialist
for landscapes through to long zooms for portraits and distant water/shock/dust proof options that are superb for the outdoor
subjects. photographer. This is all that many people will ever want from a
camera and there is a compact to cover every budget.
TOP TIP carry a

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Most modern digital cameras offer The one main disadvantage is the
the user the option to create video shape and ergonomics of the unit.
as well as stills. Most produce A camera is specifically designed
fantastic results and offer HD for shooting still images, so they
(1280 x 720) and a lot even offer feel a little awkward for shooting
Full HD (1920 x 1080). video, especially if you are trying
to be very creative, or capture
The opportunity to have both a something for long periods of
stills camera and video camera in time.
one unit is a great way to capture
both mediums without having to With impressive results they are
carry extra weight. easily capable of capturing your
adventures and are a worthy
addition to any camera.
Its important to have your camera with you on all your adventures to capture that
one-off moment.
CAMERA PHONES
It is hard to find a mobile phone these days that does not the ability to attach
incorporate a camera. Some of these cameras are very poor images direct to
and are only really capable of low quality grainy images. email or send via
Some however are very good indeed and are as effective as a facebook etc. is
compact camera. To many people it raises the question why instantaneous.
should I carry two items when I can carry just one? Most offer For some
a good range of options including scene modes, designed to owners
make it easier for the user to get a good image for a specific this is all they
scene and most have a built in super bright LED light that acts require from a camera
as a flash. and modern mobile phones,
(especially ones found on the latest
The one main disadvantage is the lack of a zoom lens, smart phones with big screens) are a very
which to some people is a must! The main advantage is its versatile and user friendly means of having a
connectivity, being a phone as well as a camera (or vice versa) camera on hand at all times.
ESSENTIAL ACCESSORIES
Tripods - Essential for keeping the camera steady whilst shooting range of cards that can withstand very hot/cold and generally
images and video. Especially useful for low light photography with tough conditions.
a DSLR, when holding the camera by hand will result in a blurred
image. They can be purchased in a range of sizes and materials Batteries - Ideally try and choose a camera that uses lithium-Ion
and can be used with all types of cameras, from DSLRs right rechargeable batteries, as these will significantly outlast a standard
through to compact cameras. Also ideal for self portraits and timed set of AA/AAA batteries. Whilst spare batteries are expensive,
photos to allow you to get in the image along with your friends buying a third party brand of battery can reduce the cost and
and family. You will need to make sure your camera is equipped still offer a very good quality battery. You never want to be in the
with a tripod mount built into the base of the camera. position where you have the perfect shot set-up only to find your
battery is flat, or your memory card is full!
Camera Cases - It is a good idea to protect your expensive and
much loved camera from damage by keeping it in a case. Some Cleaning kit It is a good idea to carry a simple cleaning kit.
cases are intended for light use and others are built specifically Always use camera/optic specific cloths and cleaning fluids so
for rugged outdoor use, with weather proof tough fabrics along not to damage your equipment. It is never good to have a dirty
with weather sealed zippers and impact resistant properties. fingerprint or a splash of mud on the optics of your lens!
Again, it depends on your use of the camera as to what level of
safety you choose to go with. Some cases are fully waterproof and
submersible making them perfect for wet weather adventures.
Memory - Memory cards are very affordable these days, so there is

no excuse not to have a spare (or two) in your camera case. Some
are designed to handle large amounts of data (great for today's
high megapixel cameras) and some brands even have an extreme
CONCLUSION
With all the wonderful cameras and equipment for sale, we can
easily lose direction on what camera to own. Spending money on
advanced and technical cameras will no doubt produce the best
quality images, but the true image is created by the person. The
camera is just the tool for the job; it is down to your vision and skill
to create a beautiful photograph.
Remember, the camera you have with you at the time is without
doubt the best camera available! When the perfect photo
opportunity arises just having any camera with you is going to
create a fantastic shot and memory.
With such a lot to consider when buying a camera, and with limited
space for me to explain everything in great detail, I strongly suggest
that if you are looking to purchase a new camera, get online and You might find inspiration to further your personal
have a search around for some websites that offer more specific photography skills by viewing some more of my work at
camera information and reviews. www.clockworkcloud.com
BUSHCRAFT &
BUSHCRAFT & survival
survival skills
skillsmagazine 41
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Where your hunger for adventure grows
MYKEL HAWKE & RUTH ENGLAND STARS OF

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We have a special guest appearance from the living legend of British canoeing RAY GOODWIN. See and hear his
personal accounts of bushcraft and inspirational canoe trips in the UK and North America on his wilderness journeys.
Experience the worlds most extreme animals in your hands, cuddle a cockroach, snuggle up to a snake and tame a
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TICKET DETAILS
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For more information

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Dogs are.
For show updates follow
The Bushcraft Show
welcome BushcraftShow
HOW TO
MAKING YOUR OWN BARK CONTAINER

During this months how to article I am focusing on a really
nice and simple project that appeals to a wide range of age
levels. Have you ever thought about making a birch bark When selecting and working with birch
container, but not been sure how to approach it? There are bark there are a few things that you need
many ways in which to make a container out of birch bark to consider. First of all what should I be
and this simple design is an easy method that will take you looking for? Well you are looking for bark
probably around an hour to complete if you have never made that is relatively fresh, but
one before and a lot less if you have! do not take it from a live
tree. As you need both the
The beauty of this kind of design is that it is quick, efficient, and outer and the inner bark, by,
self locking, so it needs no stitching or glue. It is also a single layer
container and so finding enough material is quite straight forward.
if you stripped this from a
living tree, the tree would
Jason Ingamells
Woodland Ways
The obvious downside to this is that it is not very robust, so is not die. Look out for freshly
suitable for long term storage. Also it will not hold liquids. You can fallen trees. Birch bark can
improve the construction should you wish by introducing glue, stay supple for quite some time due to the preservative properties
or indeed doubling the container up. However, for stashing a few within it, although the fresher the better as it is less likely to split.
trinkets in or as safe places to store your fish hooks around camp,
these little containers are ideal and a joy to make.
The template provided here will enable you to produce a container

3 inches in height and approximately 1 inches in diameter.
You will need for this project

Some birch bark (more on this later)
A chopping board
Small knife or craft knife
Saw for cutting the base
Timber for the base
An awl (or method of drilling a hole in the lid)
Pencil/ scissors
Vegetable oil for finishing the container
Some string (or lime bark/nettle fibres for a handle) What you will need
A metal ruler is handy
The template below!
Dimensions:
Height- 3 inches
Diameter- c. 1 inches
Cut out template and along the dotted lines
I cannot emphasise enough that the choice of birch bark is On the template, the section with the dotted lines sits inside
paramount to success with these small containers. Too thick and it the container with the arrow sections sliding over the top and
will not bend enough for such a small design, too thin and it will be then through. Its a bit tricky with the container being small
prone to splitting along the grain. but if you are gentle youll coax it through. Try at all times to
keep the bark as level as you can without bending it in line
On the note of splitting you must pay close attention to what with the lenticels.
is happening with the lenticels (the horizontal lines on the
bark). These are a considerable weak point, the grain of this Once your tube of birch bark has locked into place, it is then time
bark runs along in the same direction as the lenticels, so you to draw around the base and the top and to start shaping your
will notice if you tear along them the bark splits very easily, base and lid. Here I have selected appropriately sized rounds that
however if you try and tear across them the material is very need little work and then just finely chamfered them down using
tough. Unfortunately in the UK we do not have very thick birch one of the cutting
bark and so you often see containers doubled up so that they techniques very
can be stitched. If you work with the wood and let it tell you ably described
what it wants to do then, as you can see from the pictures, you in Ben Orfords
can produce some very nice items. You should have to do very article last
little to prepare the bark, although it is worth scraping off any month, ensuring
excess material from the inside of the bark to give you an even that the follow
surface. Dont be tempted to sand it, as in my experience this through of the
is hard to judge and the bark will either split or your container knife is protected
will be very flimsy. at all times.
Your first task is to

cut out the template
provided, and then 1.
use this to cut out
your bark. I tend to cut
around the template
with a knife as drawing
on the bark can
sometimes be unclear,
this is where a good
solid metal ruler will
help you as a guide
for the knife. You will 4.
probably notice that
the material curls as
it is thin, but if you
are clever and use the 2.
edge of a table to rest
any curl on for the
intricate cutting, rather
than trying to force
the material flat, youll
increase your chances
of it not splitting.
One little trick before

you fold the bark is if
you have a laminator,
laminate a copy of the
template to practice
folding it into shape, it
will provide you with a 5.
more realistic feel rather
than just going straight
to folding the bark and
splitting it by accident.
Next step is to fold the
container into shape.
Here you are folding the
bark so that the outer
bark ends up on the
inside of the container
to follow its natural curl
3.
as it curls away from the
dead limb. 6.

HOW TO
Its a good idea to ensure the base fits nice and snug to provide Congratulations youve made your birch bark container
structure to the container but not over tight so that it splits the in no time! I would recommend you give it little coating of
bark. The lid obviously needs to be a little looser to allow you to vegetable oil to really bring out the colour before first use.
open and close the container. When you are ready to take your skill set on to a further
level there are some excellent tutorials out
there available on the internet involving double
Snug fit layered, stitched, and glued containers. Here is a
small selection of different designs completed by
my instructors.
The finished product
Here I used an awl to bore a hole through the lid and then widened
it with my knife to attach a length of cord to the lid. You have to be
very careful not to split the round (I split one whilst making this!). If
you form a loop in the cord and then push it up through the hole
your knot will prevent the cord lifting out when you pull it.
A selection of different designs you could try!
REVIEW
TIPI OR NO TIPI...?
by
To some, camping is a bit like Marmite,
some love it, some hate it, but can the SIMON ELLAR
experience be enhanced? A common Editor
complaint when sleeping under canvas
is that you cant stand up to get dressed,
another is being cold. The replacement
of many conventional tents with a tipi
means that you can indeed stand up
to get dressed and some are suitable
for using a wood burner in to keep you
toasty.
I
n this issue we are looking at a selection
of tipis from budget models to higher end
canvas models.
When we pitched the tipis there was about

8 inches of snow on the ground, over a few
days this melted and the winds picked right
up. Tested in snow, very strong winds, (32
mph at ground level, which is equivalent
to 7 on the Beaufort scale!) and driving rain
these tipis were really put through their
paces.
Each tipi will be rated for Quality this is

the quality of the materials, stitching and
general workmanship. Features looking
at the ventilation, doors, pockets etc. Value
for Money determined by assessing
the materials, workmanship and features
linked with the cost. Storm Proofing this
evaluates not only the tipis ability to remain
standing during high winds but also the risk
of water ingress through rain and driven
rain, or through flaps blowing open. And
finally, Ease of Set up as you would expect,
this rating is for how easy it is to set the tipi
up, based on you being on your own. Marks
will be given out of five for each category.
MFH Indian Tent
this can fall apart when putting it up if you do not keep an eye on
it. The pegs were just standard straight steel ones, which are not
brilliant and can pull out easily in soft ground and when it is windy.
"Tipi" The tipi came with some basic instructions and is very easy to
erect, basically you peg the corners out, open the door and walk
the pole in, you then need to guy the tent around the outside. It
Olive 89.99 www.military1st.co.uk has guying points which are about 3 feet from the ground, with
additional points at around 5 feet.
Spec: Not an expedition spec tipi, but amazing value for money for
general camping. This tipi is easy to set up and provides quite
Sleeps: 3 (as stated online, I think this should be 4) roomy accommodation for four to five people at a push but I would
Outer shell: 190 T Nylon PU coated, 1-ply say comfortable accommodation for three with their kit.
Floor: non-slip PU material, waterproof
Framework: 22mm metal Quality: 4/5
Dimensions: 290x270x225cm Features: 4/5 SUPER
Pack size: 62x15.5x15.5cm Value for Money: 5/5 VALUE
Weight: 3690g Storm Proofing: 3/5

Carrying bag included Ease of Set up: 4.5/5
The description on Military 1sts website, being ideal for summer

camping or festivals is a good one, this tipi would be ideal for a
Simple, super value for money,
summer camp, sleepover in the garden, night fishing trip or the highly recommended!
like. It lacks the adaptability with venting, facilities for having a
stove in the tipi and the option
to add an inner tent etc. that the
other models do, but at just shy
of 90 versus hundreds, or even
over a thousand pounds it is well
worth a consideration!
This tipi is well made, there is

a built in groundsheet rising
approximately six inches up the
sides as a mudwall with two
pockets sewn into the inside at
this low level.
Three windows comprise of

a clear panel at the bottom
with a mesh panel above, both
covered by an outer flap that
is kept closed with velcro tabs. Open window
The squares in the mesh are not
very fine, being around 2mm.
The idea of the windows and this option of ventilation is good,
but the outer flap is only kept closed with 4 velcro tabs, not the
most secure fixing and can allow a draught in. It would not be a
big cost to run velcro all the way around the window to resolve
this issue. It is nice to be able to look out and see around you
and have the option to let light in and use this for ventilation on
warm days.
There is venting at the top which is permanently open, the

mesh is covered by a good sized outer cone so shouldnt be too
draughty and the good covering of material should ensure that
there is no water ingress.
The triangular double door allows for a very large opening with
the outer door zipping closed with a storm flap over the zip
secured by two velcro tabs on the vertical flap and two along
the bottom. Synonymous to this flap design used on many tents
and tipis there is the risk that driving rain could find its way in
through the zip. The inner mesh door zips closed.
The pole is a standard tubular steel push together pole with a

cap at the bottom to protect the groundsheet. Unfortunately

REVIEW
"When we pitched the tipis there was about 8

inches of snow on the ground, over a few days
this melted and the winds picked right up"
With thank's to Paul for his help!
Mil-Tec Pyramid
Tent ''Tipi''
Olive 89.99 www.military1st.co.uk
Spec:
Sleeps: 4
Outer shell: 190T Polyester, PU coated
Groundsheet: 120g Polyester
Dimensions: 290x270cm
Height: 220cm
Weight: 4750g
Drawstring carry bag with handle/shoulder strap included
Very similar to the model above but with much finer mesh all
round and a few extra features detailed below.
Again this model has a piece together pole but it has a push
button adjustment system so that you can alter the tension on
the fabric by changing the length of the pole.
It has a short lifter pole at each corner, about 1ft in height,

this is a nice idea as it creates a vertical wall of approx
eighteen inches, enhancing the sleeping/ gear stowage
area. As a result of this the there is a skirt around the outside
of the tipi, this allows the watershed to be away from the
Riser pole
tent slightly and there is a guy at each corner of the skirt
to add to the structure of the vertical walls. Again there are
guys at about 3ft, then further up at 5ft if needed.
Differing from the previous model this one has a single door
with a storm flap over the outer zip that has a velcro tab at
the bottom. The flap is slightly gathered at the top, so a bit
better, but again driving rain could still find its way in.
The other difference with this model, which is a shame, is that

the cones that cover the mesh venting panels at the top are not
really long enough and so wind and rain can come in easier.
Quality: 4/5
Features: 4/5
Value for Money: 5/5
Storm Proofing: 2/5
Ease of Set up: 3.5/5
Nice design but not quite there!
Mini Conclusion
I have drawn a conclusion here as these budget models are
worthy of their own conclusion. Whilst I like the idea of the skirt zips along the bottom with a few more velcro tabs on the storm
on the Pyramid to throw the water away from the tent slightly and flap, and the windows had a strip of velcro all around then it
the fact that the riser poles create a vertical wall in the tent giving would be super, scoring 4.5 5 for Storm proofing. To go a step
a bit more room, this is not of enough significance. I think that further, if the pole was elasticated and of a lighter material, and
the simplicity of the Indian model and the better hood make it a the pegs replaced with some alloy vs then this would be a serious
better all round choice, the thing that lets it down a little is the size contender for more serious camping trips.
of the mesh. If this was addressed and the outer door had

REVIEW
Bergans of Norway the vents. This is more of an issue if you want to have a fire or
firebox inside your tipi. Versatility and the level of control you have
is also a factor with this hood system which will be clear when
6041 Lavvo 6-8 Person you read about the Tentipi Safir.
There is the option to fit mesh at the top using a velcro band,
RRP 399 (floor 115, Mosquito although one length of velcro is longer than the other, so it
netting 35) www.bergans.com doesnt fit perfectly so insects could still get in.
Spec: The door has a storm flap over it with three velcro tabs to
keep it down, it is a long flap for just three tabs and does blow
Sleeps: 6-8 up, driven rain could get in here quite easily.
Material: 190T Rip-stop
Polyester with a PU coating It comes with a piece-together pole, this is good quality, it
Dimensions: 388x408cm narrows from the base to top so some stability is lost, this
Height: 280cm enables the sections to slot inside each other but this is a bit
Weight: 6kg fiddly to do. As it does not have any elastication the pole can
Floor: 1372g Mosquito fall apart when you are putting the tipi up and so can be a
netting: 250g bit fiddly, particularly if you are on your own as you try and
Carry Bag get the hood right too. The pegs are super sturdy Alloy V
section pegs of a good length, the best in the review!
I had high expectations for the
Lavvo from Bergans after being very impressed with the clothing There were no instructions, pitching involved pegging round the
that I have tried. perimeter then walking the pole in, then adjusting the position
of pegs if needed and tightening the straps. As you put the pole
The quality was not quite to the high standard I would have in you need to ensure that the hood is in place, then adjust the
expected, some of the stitching in critical areas could benefit hood once erected to ensure a good seal. A flap folds into the tent,
from some reinforcement, for instance where the pegging point and then the optional floor snaps in. There is a skirt around the
webbing attaches to the tent fabric where it may be weakened outside which is good to ensure that watershed is away from the
with wind movement. groundsheet. I feel that this tent would sleep five people with kit,
four comfortably, particularly if you have a small fire box in it.
You can purchase a floor for the tipi which I would always advise
where there is not an inner in use. You can also purchase mosquito Quality: 4/5
netting to attach with velcro across the door, I find this a hassle Features: 3/5
and would really expect this as standard. Value for Money: 3.5/5 Glow zip pulls
Storm Proofing: 3.5/5
Entering the tipi I noticed a nice addition to the zip pulls, there is a Ease of Set up: 4/5
glow in the dark zip pull with reflective tape in the cord. This is the
same for the guy lines so you can highlight them with your torch
light at night. The lower guys (approximately 3ft from the ground)
Best pegs in
have mesh pockets to keep them tidy when packing/not in use.
I am not sure why this is not the same for the guys higher up at
the review!
approximately 4.5ft.
There are no windows in the sides of the tipi, which I actually think
is an advantage as it adds weight and extra seams and places
where wind and water could ingress. Ventilation is via three vents
around the bottom, there is a cover over the mesh attached with
velcro, they are more than adequate with a rain flap that pulls
out on the exterior. A draught could get in as they do not seal
completely. Further ventilation is available from what I will term
the hood, over the cone at the top. This idea is the same on both
Bergans models and the Green Outdoor Tipi and I have to say
is not one that I favour. The tipi is open at the top with just the
webbing straps going up to the top of the pole, this is covered
by a piece of material (the hood) which straps around the top,
overlapping to seal the tipi. If you want ventilation you peel back
a portion of this hood to let the air in. There are a few reasons that
I am not keen on this method, one is that on some models (this
one was not bad) it is hard to get the hood to wrap around tight
enough to provide a good seal, particularly if the wind is blustery
and changing direction. The second reason is that, especially if
its windy it is a hassle fitting the hood when setting up the tent;
I have seen people chasing them across a field. Another reason
is that you have no control over this method of ventilation from
within the tent, therefore if the weather is inclement or the wind
direction changes you have to go outside to open close or adjust
REVIEW
Green Outdoor
pegging points on the outer skirt and inner tent are small webbing
loops so you would struggle to get a good sturdy V peg through
the hole.
Tipi When pitching, peg out the mud walling and then walk the pole
in, you need the guys really to keep heavier canvas in shape, with
these in place you have a sturdy tent!
800 www.greenoutdoor.co.uk This is the only tipi that had some evidence of water inside, it is fair
to say that this may just be that the canvas had not yet had a good
Spec: soaking and so the canvas and stitching had not tightened up.
Sleeps: 6 Overall, this is a good sturdy tipi that would provide a nice living
Material: 55% Hemp, 45% Cotton Canvas space for up to 6 people, 4 comfortably with kit.
Dimensions: 450x450cm
Height: 300cm A Tipi Stove & Flu Kit is available for this tipi priced at 465
Weight: 19kg
Quality: 4/5
Features: 4/5
Hot off the sewing machine we test the pre-production model of Value for Money: 3/5
the new Green Outdoor tipi. Green Outdoors ethos is to provide Storm Proofing: 4/5
environmentally friendly tents, using environmentally sound Ease of Set up: 4/5
processes, made in Great Britain. This tipi reflects just that with
the bug mesh being made from recycled polyester and even the
guy lines being made from recycled material. It certainly feels well 'Best of British,
made and durable.
a strong
The quality of the materials and workmanship is very good
although there are a few design elements that compromise this
contender' Ventilation
slightly.
We were sent this tipi with the inner already attached, the
groundsheet has a central reinforced patch where the pole stands
and a cross zip so that you can peel the floor back to have a fire/
fire box. The inner tent has a finer mesh over the areas where the
windows are. It also has some pockets sewn in at around 4ft from
the ground, as the pockets are sewn onto side walls of inner tent I
have concerns about what can be put in them, really a head torch
is as heavy as I would go as the stitching could tear the walls.
There is a drop down material cover over the mesh windows,
Tipi skirt
which have finer mesh to better keep the insects out. There is a
drawstring insect mesh panel at the top, which is attached to the
inner for convenience.
There are window style vents which have a zipped external canvas
covers over the mesh, the mesh size is 1.5mm, not as fine as it
could be. The vent covers can be guyed out right open or zipped
to give a four inch opening. There are two lower level ones and
one high level.
Further ventilation and an exit for the stove flue is through the
cone and hood method, I have described this in some detail for
the previous tipi, so suffice to say here that I am not a fan of this
method. The difference here is that the spike at the top of the
pole protrudes through the top of the hood, held in place to
some degree with a rain deflector cap. I am always shy of things
protruding out of the tent as there is scope for water ingress,
however minimal.
The outer door has a canvas flap over the zip with three Velcro
tabs to keep it in place, this is effective but as with all models there
would be the possibility of water ingress if the rain is blowing
sideways
With the sections reducing in size, the pole is not the sturdiest, and
again, a bit fiddly to pack away. The pegs are very small and not
adequate for this tipi (this may change with the production model)
there were some straight alloy pegs and some small semicircular
ones (not v section), all about five inches long. That said, the
Bergans of Norway
of these points is a guying point with three guys attached that
then merge into one guy line. I would be tempted to try modifying
this and guy out with three separate guys from that point as
6051Wiglo they tend to pinch the side in and cause it to sag a bit. There are
additional guying points around the tent and the guylines have
reflective tape in them. The zip pulls are also on the same cord
RRP 525 reviewed here with glow in the dark ends.
with 0654 inner tent It is a shame that the negatives outweigh the concept of this tent.
www.bergans.com It is a super idea, the idea being that when you are inside the
three hooped living areas provide roomier living space, increasing
Spec:
the height where the sides normally come down, so it in essence
creates three pods that can comfortably accommodate
Sleeps: 6-10 two people in each pod with
Material: 190T Rip-stop Polyester with a PU coating gear. I like the idea of the
Dimensions: W x L x H: 560 x 490 x 250 cm hooped/zipped vents springing
Weight: approx.8.8 kg out too.
Inner Tent: 3.4kg
Carry Bag Quality: 3/5
Features: 4/5
Quality, again as per the Bergans Lavvo I was a little disappointed Value for Money: 4/5
after having high expectations the issues particularly relate to Storm Proofing: 3.5/5 Good entrance
the stitching and reinforcing of vulnerable attachment points. Ease of Set up: 2.5/5 vestibule on th
e
One of the pegging out straps just ripped straight off, upon Wiglo
examination there was just a single (possibly double line of
stitching, not crossed over or reinforced). The webbing band
Great Space,
across the door base also tore away. A further idiosyncrasy of this ease of pitching
model is the skirt, it does not fold into the tent as at the point
where the poles cross you would be stressing the material to do so definitely lets it down!
but it doesnt peg out. Looking at images, the design is for it to
be out but as there are no pegging points it just flaps around in
the wind.
The inner tent with built in groundsheet, is very nice, it is bright

yellow, which adds to the light inside. In each corner of each
pod there is a zip down triangle with mesh behind which is
great for ventilation. The groundsheet has a small section that
can be ripped out (it is attached by velcro) so that you can have
a fire. Additional ventilation is provided by some permanent
mesh panels in the side walls and through the top. Again there Wind damage
is an insect mesh panel which velcros in, again as with the other
Bergans model this is not the most effective method. There are
some pockets in the inner that end at the seams, so these have
a stronger design than the Green Outdoor tipi inner.
Other ventilation comes from the hood and

cone system at the top. With this model, due
to the shape of the tipi it is even harder to
get a good wind and rain tight seal. On the Pintch point
outer there are some hooped ventilation
points which when zipped open spring out.
Again the pole narrows so losing some

stability and is fiddly to pack and can be
awkward when pitching solo.
There were no instructions again and it paid

to have some experience of tents and tipis.
To pitch you feed through three poles into
the tent structure, then peg out, then walk
the centre pole in. This model is best pitched
with more than one person and does take
some time.
There are at least two of the points that

need guying in order to give the tent its
structure with the pod poles in place. One

REVIEW
Tentipi, Safir 9
where you want the centre of the tipi to be, loop the pegging cord
over it, extend it and place a peg in the ground, place another one
opposite it, then two either side to form a cross, then using the
man tape to show the locations place a peg in between each of these
points, hook the tipis pegging rings onto the pegs and walk the
pole in. A few minutes and hey presto! The pegging points can
then be tensioned. The skirt folds internally and has toggles at
1650 with Pro Floor 525 (Comfort each corner of it to give a nice shaped fit, then the floor clips in
Floor 275) www.nordicoutdoor.co.uk over this. The floor has a zipped T- section so that you can have
various configurations to allow for an access area, fires etc.
Spec: I have never actually needed the guys as the tent alone is very
Sleeps 10 BEST IN stable. The guying points (about 3ft and 5ft from the ground) with
Breathable cotton polyester fabric TEST bright yellow guys already fitted are more than adequate for all
Weight 13.6 kg but a full blown hurricane! When packing away, once you have
5.3m diameter bundled your cord tapes with bungees, sliding toggles secure
3.1m high them neatly out of the way.
Pack size: 730x305mm
Storage: Bag with compression straps for tighter packing There is also a purpose built exit point for a stove in the roof,
which closes with velcro, and, not surprisingly in terms of attention
The two smaller versions are priced at: 5 man 1195, 7 man 1450. to detail, the Eldfell stoves are designed to fit and are available
in steel (560) and stainless steel (800). This tent will sleep 8 in
We reviewed the 7 man version in issue 8 some years ago now comfort and 10 if needed, 6 in real comfort with a reasonable
and I have had personal experience of the 5, 7 and 9 man versions. amount of gear.
Sweden is renowned for producing some great bushcraft kit and
this is no exception, regarded by many as the flagship of all tipis Quality: 5/5 The Safir really
Features: 5/5
The quality of the workmanship is unquestionable; it is of an Value for Money: 5/5 is the
exceptionally high standard with attention to detail being paid to
everything from the guy line retention to the reinforcing on the
Storm Proofing: 5/5
Ease of Set up: 5/5
ULTIMATE tipi
door.
Venting is via three vent points around the bottom, a two way
zip unzips a section of the base material to reveal a mesh panel.
Marrying up on the outside there is a peg out flap that you can
guy out with 3 guys to create a covered venting channel. The Well sealed
two way zip system allows you to open the vents as much or
as little as required. The top venting system is a feat of design
and engineering! It is ingeniously controlled by a series of cords
running through a concealed strip to the side which raise the cap
allowing you to adjust the amount and direction of ventilation
with ease from inside the tipi. Built-in insect mesh toggles away
if not needed. Unlike the hood and cone systems mentioned
above you can stay dry when adjusting the ventilation, there is no
separate hood to worry about when erecting and no concern at all
about getting a good wind and water tight seal!
The design of the door means that this can be used for further
ventilation, it rolls back to provide a good sized opening and there
is a smaller panel that can be unzipped with the insect mesh still
keeping out any unwanted visitors. When closed you can secure
it shut with steel rings and toggles for security. The flap over
the door is such that it sits well covering the zip but if there was
horizontal rain and the wind blowing at the right angle then very
minimal penetration may be possible. That said, a group of us
sheltered in one in Sweden in very bad weather and this was not a
problem.
The alloy pole is elasticated, and, being the same diameter

throughout makes for very easy pitching and good stability. The
pegs are very good too, there are two lengths included in the bag
and they are more than adequate in sand, stony soil or soft damp
ground!
The tipi comes with some very comprehensive instructions; there

is a little pot with them in, along with a Tentipi memory stick! It
comes with a tape for pegging, the process is simple. Put a peg
WIN!
Win this Tipi.
Send in your
details
See T&C's P3
Conclusion
There is really no comparison at all, we of this tent; things such as having a zip
have taken the top model from each to completely close off the low level
brand, so this Tentipi model has no vents, the cord management system,
advantage in that respect, however even the adjustability of the cap and the exit
the cheaper Tentipi models such as the point for a stove flue. These features
nylon Onyx priced at 665 for the 7 man have clearly been refined through use
version are manufactured to the same and testing in the field.
standards and even have internal cord
adjustment systems! As a runner up I would have to say that
the little MFH Indian tipi represents
Whilst the idea is nice, windows/ super value for money, and an excellent
vent points on the side of tipis create purchase. It would be worth dropping
more seams and a potential places for it into a seamstress to add some velcro
draughts and water ingress. The simple, and possibly a zip to the bottom of the
yet well thought out features of the door to make it that bit better.
Tentipi, in my opinion justify the price Happy Camping!

MASSAI EXPERIENCE
LifeChangingExpedition
Whilst sitting on my return flight from Nairobi, Kenya, I am attempting to assimilate and
interpret the adventure that I have just experienced. It seems hardly believable that the
last 13 days were real, now that I am surrounded by people from many nationalities with
an equally diverse array of technology and ample food and drink throughout the flight.
Although my body is on the flight homeward bound, my heart has been left behind and my
mind and soul will never be the same again.
by Olivia Ellar
Sub Editor
Although my bodbyouisndon the

flight homeward ind a,ndmymhe art
has been left behill never be ythe
mind and soul w
same again.
Y
ou see I have just been privileged to attend Woodland Ways
Massai Warrior Expedition set in the Rift Valley, Kenya, where introduce you into the Massai culture and spending time with
for the last nine days I have lived in a Massai village. This is Daniel, his lovely wife Ann and adorable family in their home was
a not for profit trip with all proceeds going directly to the village as much part of the experience as living with the Massai in their
where, in 2012Woodland Wayshelped to build a school. The Boma. Whilst exploring the area where they lived, we travelled up
proceeds from this years Expedition is financing the teachers into the Ngong Hills and were taught about the use of plants and
salaries and buying educational equipment. learned about the geology and history of the area.
Ever since I became aware that this expedition was going to What a welcome we received from the Massai people as we arrived
take place I longed to attend and this year, Simon and I were at their village after completing our off road travels, negotiating
determined to make it happen, and will forever be grateful for wadis and some tricky terrain. As we began to unpack the 4x4,
family and friends who helped out behind the scenes. white men and Massai Warriors worked as a team without the need
to speak one anothers language. An elderly Massai man hacked
Benjamin Franklin said by failing to prepare, you are preparing to away over-hanging branches with his machete to create an area
fail. I did all that I could to prepare myself for this experience. My for our new home. They helped to clear the ground, set up our tents
kit was condensed and compact with all the essentials, including and cut down Acacia branches from nearby trees so that we could
medication, desert boots and a water filter. I read guidebooks build a circular barrier around the edge of our camp to keep out
and learned about Kenya, the animals and the way of life for the wild animals. This was called a Boma and one surrounded each
Massai tribe. However, it soon would become quite apparent that group of huts to protect the occupants and their livestock, which
no amount of preparation could prepare me for what I was about are brought in at night to be safe from leopards,
to experience over the next two weeks. Some of which I will share lions and hyenas.
with you, while some experiences are just too precious to share.
Simon and I were met at Nairobi, Kenya airport by Jason

Ingamells, his instructors, other attendees and our
guide Daniel, who I soon learned was an
indispensible, integral part of the
team and a wonderful man.
The whole expedition is
carefully designed
to gradually
Ann & Danie

l
Ann & Daniels lovely children,

James and Grace
Adam helping to
build the boma
erssin
ower
Flow n'sgarden
Ann's
inAn
Fl
garden
Ann & Daniel's ho
me

MASSAI EXPERIENCE
Once we were all set up, women ran ahead,

the village leaders gathered great I thought, we
together to deliver an official must be nearly at the
welcome on behalf of the water source. Little did
villagers. This welcome was I realise at this point
opened with a prayer in the what a great sense of
Maa language and then some humour the Massai
of the village leaders shared people have. The two
their special and moving women had hidden
thoughts. We were invited to amongst the bushes
make their village our home and rattled stones in
and come and go as we their containers to scare
please. the donkeys and in turn
make me jump, as I was
Each day, we received right behind them. I
specialist activities that quickly gained control
were delivered and led by of the donkeys as the
local Massai people which Massai women fell
included; tracking wild about laughing. They
animals, tree and plant ID, continued to giggle
blood letting, bead work and off-roading. One experience that I will about it on many occasions during my stay. Im sure its not the first
never forget involved trekking with the Massai women to collect time they have done this joke, nor will it be the last, but it was a
water from a water source. We watched and attempted to assist laugh that forged friendships over the coming days.
the women load the donkeys with water
barrels. The harnesses consisted of webbed
straps and sacks bound together so that each
donkey could carry two barrels. Some of
the young donkeys came along so that they
could get used to the journey and learn the
ropes.
The journey was a 10km round trip in the

scorching heat, over rocks, sand, through
wadis and over stony ground. Little did I
realise that I would not be walking along
with the men on the expedition but was
swiftly passed a stick, given the commands and expected to
herd the donkeys with the other women all the way to the water
source. The women giggled and laughed at my pronunciation of
their commands and my general herding style!
Once I began to get the hang of it, the other women backed off
and let me take the reins (so to speak) of herding 11 donkeys. Two
Daniel our interpreter struggled to say the
My anticipation of arriving amount with tears in his eyes. The children
at the water source was cheered and squealed with delight despite
that I would see a small not having had anything to eat or drink
lake, or at least a pond or for the five hours spent at school. The
maybe even a puddle. I proceeds of this years trip may be used to
did not realise it would be install a water source at the school.
a stretch of sandy ground
with a small trickle of dirty By way of thank you, the chairman
water rising from a spring. wanted to sacrifice a goat for us in
But their work to get water Greeting the school children honour of our visit and all that has
had only just begun. They been done to help the village
dug away at the sand (with
a little assistance from me) I have just stopped at Doha International
to create a pool and series of Airport to transfer to Heathrow, London
trenches. They then created a and I witnessed numerous people bombard
sandy filtration bank through the duty free gold counter as if it was five
which the water passed and minutes before closing time. The wealth
while they removed jugs full and money exchanging hands is in sharp
of dirty water, clean water contrast to the experience I have just had
gradually filled the pool. This and raises more questions than I have
was a long process that first Emily, one of the school answers. One thing I do know is that this
required exertion and then teachers expedition is not trying to change the
patience while they waited world, but to make a difference to a small
for the clean water. Once pocket of people in the world, which would
the task was complete, the not be possible without people attending
women took a quiet moment this cultural experience.
to bathe in a stream further
down which was generally My personal opinion is that this unique
used for livestock to drink experience is priceless and the expedition
from. itself is great value for money. As well as
enjoying an educational and cultural trip
During our visit, we had of a lifetime you have the satisfaction of
the wonderful opportunity seeing that the Massai peoples lives are
to visit the school, which improved, whether it be by the provision
Woodland Ways, the villagers of a closer water source, a school teacher
and the previous years trip or educational resources, you are paying
had worked together to it forward.
build. All the children and
Smiling faces all around
two teachers stood outside Anyway, I digress, back to the goat The
the school, a corrugated tin chairmans goat had already been killed,
sheet construction with two butchered and was cooking by the time
classrooms, with smiles from we arrived at his Boma. The Massai kill a
ear to ear. It is customary for goat by holding its mouth closed, with its
a child to lower their head nostrils covered to suffocate it. It takes a
towards you, when they greet couple of minutes for the goat to die (which
you, as a sign of respect to I witnessed later in the week) but the reason
their elders while the elder for this method is that they can preserve
places their hand on the every part of the goat nothing is wasted.
top of the childs head. We
all touched around thirty
childrens heads, while they I felt like I was in the scene of Indiana Jones
Jason Ingamells gives his donation to
gathered around us, touched and the Temple of Doom with the eyeball
our hair and white skin. Joshua, one of the teachers soup! On my plate were the best pieces of
goat that were reserved for us as honored
A special meeting was held in guests. The only downside was that the
the school with the chairman, meat had been stewed in goats blood,
a local man who is assigned which was then poured over, making a
to manage the proceeds bloody, clotted gravy. The Massai men
of Woodland Ways Massai watched us eat their offering to us. I really
Expeditions to support the did not want to offend and so I started to
school and other initiatives. chew the bloody goat while I smiled and
Jason Ingamells, owner of nodded to the Massai men. The women
Woodland Ways presented were further away, sitting in the shade of
this years donation at the another tree waiting for some meat to be
meeting. Words could not taken over to them as Massai men and
express the emotion as women dont often socialise together.

MASSAI EXPERIENCE
When the Massai showed us how to

do it, they took it in turns to plunge
in a cross-shaped wooden utensil
in such a manner that the broth
became frothy. This was then drunk
by the mug load.
As I get closer to home the world

seems to be getting busier and the
days of watching zebra, giraffe, eland
and many other wild animals near
our Boma or just sitting under an
Acacia tree speaking with the Massai
seem a figment of my imagination.
The Massai people often gave us
gifts of their beadwork throughout
the trip and many would say, this is
so you remember me. The Massai
people do not want to be forgotten
and I wont forget them.
For more information about the

next trip in February 2014 visit
http://www.woodland-
ways.co.uk/buy-
online-massai-warrior-
expedition--200.html
or call Woodlands Ways
on 01234 351006
Meet the Massai

Dance Troop at The
Bushcraft Show 2013
See p42 for more
information.
The next course was sampled by two of the group, Kevan and
Burt, it looked like mashed brains in a pan and was eaten by
skewering it with an Acacia thorn. This was just too much for
me, although the final verdict was that it was in fact intestines!
The third course was roast goat that had been cooked over an
open fire, this tasted good but within minutes it was covered in
flies. The final course we termed the broth, which was made
by boiling the goats carcass in water with some additional tree
bark. This was then sieved and the remaining liquid frothed. This
is a unique method of food preparation which some of the guys
tried, soaking themselves and the Massai men in the process!
Warning: This trip is not for the faint hearted but definitely for the big hearted
With thanks...
No trip would be the same without quality equipment!
Babies love
Craghoppers
too!
We would like to thank Kendrick Imports for sending

Who's a Rogue?
us a Rogue Packer Hat (407D) in Sand and a Canvas
Breezy Hat (306D), which kept the sun off our heads!
To see the range of Rogue hats and other products
visit www.kendrickimports.com Our thanks also
goes to Craghoppers for outfitting Simon and I in
their new range of NosiLife clothing, bursting with
innovative travel features, the garments protected
us from the sun, kept us cool and in style! Visit www.
craghoppers.com to see their new range.
Despite seeing them in the wild, we took our

own selection of primates to Africa. Our
thanks goes to Powertraveller who kept
us online and in contact whilst we were
completely off the grid, with products such
as the Power and Solar Gorillas, the Power
Monkey Extreme and the amazing new Solar
Monkey Adventurer, winner of the 2013
ISPO Award. Visit www.powertraveller.com
to see their full range of Apple approved
solar and power storage products.
Stuck for boots, I would like to

thank Becketts Adventure www. MSR tent caused
armynnavy.com for stepping in at a stir amongst the
Lowa boots on the the last minute and getting a pair Massai...
less rugged terrain of Lowa Desert Elite Boots to me in
time for the trip, which protected
my feet on the rugged terrain and
kept me safe from potential bites or
snake strikes.
Finally, a huge thank you goes to

the guys at Cascade Designs, who,
upon receipt of a kit list from us
rallied around to send Platypus
Lowa boots Hydration systems and an MSR
Hubba Hubba HP expedition tent, Nearly there...
which was to be our home for the
trip. We needed a geodesic tent
and as this was lightweight and specked to
withstand the rigours of UV, wind and sand,
with mesh panelling designed for use in
warmer climates, it fitted the bill perfectly.
The additional gear shed allowed us to
store our kit effectively and the mud mats
protected the base of the tent from the rocks
that protruded through the sandy soil. They Our house, in the
also provided PackTowls middle of our the
which are the ultimate desert!
travel towel and a
selection of products from
rt
Craghoppers NosiLife shi Thermarest, not all of
which made it on the trip,
but we will be looking
at these in a later issue.
We found the Prolite Plus mats with the down coupler to be super and
due to the temperature didnt really need anything else except for
the Thermarest Down Pillows, which I was extremely impressed with
these and even took it on our flights! Visit www.cascadedesigns.com
to find out all about these products and the entire ranges.
Thanks guys, we were well equipped and had a super trip!

BUSHCRAFT ON A BUDGET
BUDGET HEAD OVER

by,
Ian Nairn
1. Double over the fleece and chalk out
Hello again and welcome to another budget article. In this issue I
want to show you a very simple but useful bit of kit. I got the idea
for one of these some time back at our friends Derek and Lindas
house. Derek had just bought one and I had a look at it and
thought.. you guessed it; I can make one of those!
I
was reminded of it the other night whilst watching an episode of Dual
Survival, with Cody Lundin and Dave Canterbury. They were doing an
episode where they were showing the viewer how to survive in heavy
snow and freezing temperatures. I noticed that they were both wearing
these head-over type garments so it jogged my memory.
The idea is you are making a hood with a neck baffle that can be worn
to keep off wind and chills. As you will see later it can be worn in a few
ways. So first to make the job a bit easier, if you have a garment with a
hood that fits you nicely then get that and use it as a template to draw
round onto your chosen material, I used my Swazi bush shirt as a guide.
For material I used an old fleece blanket, I liked the colour and it will be
good in the woods, plus we didnt really use it, so it went for the chop.
The fleece you will be using needs to be doubled over, the fold should 2. Use an over locking stitch to sew
be at the side that your face would be facing out of when done. Leave
two halves together flat so that there
about a 1 gap from the fold, to allow a cut that will be folded back to
form the seam around the hood for a draw cord to run through. is no seam
Draw round your hood close to the garment, unlike previous sewing
articles where I ask you to make allowance for the hem, in this you dont
need to as you will be using an over locking stitch which sews the two
halves together flat so that there is no seam. But draw down past the 3. Put a safety pin in the cord, which
bottom of the hood at least a good 6 8 to form the neck baffle. You makes it easier to feed it through
need to make sure you widen out the neck baffle as you go so it fits over
your head and spreads out on your shoulders once in place. Once you
have your pattern drawn on you can cut out the material. If you are not
too sure about measurements then use some scrap material first to have
a play with before you commit to your fleece.
When you have cut out the material you need to cut from the top of the
hood straight down the fold at the front to form the opening you will
look out through. This will be dependent on your size; mine was about
12 long. Work off the size of the hood you used as a template. At the
bottom of the cut down you need to make a cut inwards, this should be a
downward sloping cut from the front edge at about 45 degrees.
Once happy, take to the sewing machine and set it to the over locking
setting. This is usually a zigzag type of stitch; again try it on a scrap first
if you are not sure. The over locking stitch pulls the two sides of the
material together without forming a ridged
seam that may irritate your
head. I started from the top
of the head and sewed down
to the bottom of the neck.
Make sure you dont sew too
far and start closing up the
neck hole. When you have
sewn the top and back of the
hood you can try it on for
size. Now fold back the extra
material that will form the
seam round the front of the
hood. You may find it easier
to do this with the hood
inside out. When you have
done this you will be left
with a little point where
your chin will be, this too
is folded over and sewn
down again to the inside 4. Add a reclaimed toggle
and sewn inside out.
BUSHCRAFT
BUSHCRAFT&&survival
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BUSHCRAFT ON A BUDGET
When you have done this sewing you can put in the draw cord. I
used some old thin bungee type cord out of an old pair of walking
trousers. I also got the toggle and grip toggle from the same
trousers. To feed it in easily you can put a safety pin in the cord and
feed it through. Once all the way round pass it through the grip
toggle and tie it off. Of course you can use a different method if
you like; this was an easy quick way, using kit I had.
Budget Tip
Thats it you are done. As I said earlier this is a very versatile bit Keep your e
yes open for
of kit, it can be worn as a hat, neck warmer and a head over. If it being throw any clothing
gets really cold you can pull on the draw cord and close up the n out or in c
that has bun h arity shops
face opening, lifting up the neck baffle to cover your nose and gee cord in
mouth (thats why you make the neck baffle a bit long so it still toggles and and the
bungee grip
covers your neck even when pulled up). The only problem you clothing is tr s. Even if the
may have is the same one I had. When I finished making mine, I ashed, rippe
bungee and d or torn, the
had people saying Ooohhh can you make me one of them too toggles can
please? As they are so quick and easy to make I am sure once for future ga still be used
rments or pro
you have made one it wont take you long to knock up another jects.
couple for friends or family! And with the recent cold weather I
have had good use out of mine already.
So happy sewing and I hope you enjoy this simple easy

project. Until next time, keep it on a budget.
A simple and versatie

piece of kit!
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In the
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Retired U.S. Army Special Forces MYKEL HAWKE best known
for his role in the Discovery Channel series Man, Woman, Wild,
where he co-stars with his wife, RUTH ENGLAND, a British
television presenter and actress we find out more about this
adventurous couple.
Ben & Lois Orford teach you about Axe apps looking at their shape,
design and individual attributes
Find out whats going on at The Bushcraft Show 2013
Paul Kirtley Helps you Harness the Hand Drill
Carve your own kuksa with Jason Ingamells plus FREE cut and use
templates and exclusive online design templates
Making paper using leaves and nettles
Take a visit to a Meadowland and explore this wonderful summer

environment
Swag Bags Tested
Best wild medicines and the science behind how medicinal plant
compounds actually work
Lofty Wisemans Survival Stories as never heard before
Reviewed - Camp Cups, Plates and Bowls
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TRACKING
MORETOPTRACKING
GAMES & EXERCISES
by
Perry McGee
National Tracking School
NOSE BAG TESTING The participant has to successfully track the animal to the finish
point; you can introduce various scuffs and confusing sign along
the way to make it harder.
One excellent quick exercise designed to test the trackers sense
ANIMAL SCAT EXERCISE

of smell is the simple nose bag test. It is easy to create and is a
great way of adding fun to tracking exercises. Start by gathering
six porous sandbags and insert six different items into them, each
of which have distinctive odours pertinent to the type of tracking Another option on the trail is to create differing animal scat deposit
training being completed. points where
participants
can identify the
animal from
its scat and
estimate the
time the scat
was passed.
Animal scat
models can
also be used.
These are easily
constructed
using modelling
clay or carving
wooden sticks.
Variations on
the theme can
be differing
animals or
different animal
scat size. Perry McGee examining Kangaroo
Identification as scat in Australia
Then identify a route or trail with six separate areas and deposit to the animals
the sandbags containing the odours so that they can be identified well being and
without opening. The sandbags can be left secured on a trail or dietary content
hung from objects such as trees, lampposts or buildings. can be assessed by the participants by the scat dissection. Further
clues can be associated to the exercise by leaving food sources
The participants should then be asked to walk or run around the near the scat, for example, hazelnuts broken up and chewed with
trail, locating the bags sequentially, smelling the contents and jagged edges or gnaw marks on the outer surface being indicative
then writing it down on a note pad before moving onto the next of a British squirrel.
sandbag.
BASIC PROGRESSIVE
USING ANIMAL TRACKING
SIGN EXERCISES
One of the best techniques to
Create animal sign either by using pre created learn basic visual tracking is to
animal signs painted or drawn on medium follow a live subject(s) through
such as stones or wood, or, by gouging or a series of changing terrain and
drawing the sign making the image on the environments. These exercises can
surface of the terrain being tracked by the be separated into differing skill levels
participants. and is dependent on the advisors
imagination and the ability of the
Variations on the animal sign can include participants.
differing animals, crossing tracks or you can
introduce additional items like feeding sign,
scat or traces of fur.
Leaving sign, crossing obstacles and marks for the participants obvious sign, drag marks etc every 10 meters and increase the
across a trail should be made interesting for the participants distance as you meander in the woods. Leave obstacles advising
and be designed to become progressively harder. Rewards or a the participant to establish.
point collection process can be added for the more advanced.
All participants should have the ability and facility to read and Try and create a circular trail to lead the participant back
use a map and compass and be in possession of food and water. towards the start area. From experience, on basic courses
All of the exercises listed can be carried out as an overt or covert participants invariably get lost so intermittent communication
environment and for the advanced at night or with restricted vision every ten minutes should be made to establish safety. If the
equipment. participant fails to communicate then the exercise should stand
down and the participants and advisor should re group at the
start/exit point.
Types of ONE ON ONE MANHUNTER

progressive EXERCISE (URBAN)
tracking training Dentical to the rural tracking exercise, however designed to
enhance urban tracking skills. Obvious urban signs should include
obstacles and awareness of urban difficulties.
Tracking in pairs FOUR ONTO ONE

One on One (rural) MANHUNTER EXERCISE
One on One (urban) This exercise is designed to enhance the skills of a tracking team
following one subject and is considered far safer than the one to
One onto Four man hunter one exercise. Implemented in the same manner, but with four
participants, this exercise is often far quicker than others, as the
Four onto One man hunter participants often encourage each other on the follow.
It highlights the necessity for fresh eyes, and the

requirement of tracking tactics.
TRACKING IN
PAIRS ONE ONTO
Especially useful in the younger FOUR
tracker training development,
tracking in pairs increases teamwork
MANHUNTER
and communication. It should be EXERCISE
stated to the participants that every
sign identified must be indicated Similar to the others but this
and approved by both participants time the tracking unit is alone
before moving onto the next one. and follows a group of four or
more. The exercise highlights and
ONE ON ONE increases the skills of the individual
tracking unit and is invariably
MANHUNTER easier than most exercises. Ensure
EXERCISE that the participant has the

relevant safety precautions prior to
(RURAL) the exercise.
Start by assessing the participant and

ensure that he is in possession of at
FOUR ONTO
least two litres of water. Then ensure FOUR
that he has a watch and that it is set
to the same time as the advisors. If "One of the best techniques to learn basic MANHUNTER
possible give the participant some visual tracking is to follow a live subject(s)"
form of communication (radio, mobile) Designed for speed this activity
a map and a compass and ensure that should commence at a slow
it is in working order. Inform the participant that in the event of any speed and increase as the trail
loss to regroup at the start point and ensure that the grid reference unfolds. It is designed to highlight the need to rotate the
number is written down. lead tracking unit and the need to assess the trail prior to the
follow. Other aspects and variations can include booby traps,
Then advise the participant to sit down for ten minutes and set smoke screens, or diversionary tactics designed to throw the
off on a route or direction through a wooded area. Initially leave following tracking units off track.

Nick Gough, approved Practitioner of the Institute of Outdoor
Learning, offers bushcraft and survival courses in the beautiful
Snowdonia national park. 1-2 day courses set in 200 acres of
ancient woodland, Canadian Canoe Wildlife Safaris, Wild Fishing,
Camping & Bed and Breakfast
T : 01341 423407
M : 07958 413277
W: www.woodlandersbushcraft.co.uk
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We usually hold large stocks of
Swedish trangias, reindeer hides,
scandanivan rucksacks, military
clothing andmuch more
T: 01695 228 323
E: sales@militarymart.co.uk
W: www.militarymart.co.uk
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BEST IN BUSHCRAFT
Best in Bushcraft Awards 2012

Some words from this years Winners & Finalists
In the last issue, we announced the results for the six recognition for the
categories of Best in Bushcraft 2012. This year, we received third year running
more votes than ever and we are pleased to see entrants for the quality of
from all over the world including the United Kingdom, our courses. Of the
Ireland, France, Netherlands and even Australia. Having an 81 different course
online entry form facilitated easier and quicker responses titles, and 428 actual
and the array of nominees throughout the industry was courses delivered in
extensive. 2012, The Woodland
Ways Weekend is our
We contacted the winners and finalists about their achievement flagship course. This
and here is just some of the feedback and comments we course covers a huge
received variety of skills, with
an innovative approach to instruction. we advance you from not
Best Bushcraft Course just the basics of shelter, friction fire lighting, water and food, but
take you on a further journey to awaken a true variety of bushcraft
skills honing natural navigation, tracking, wild food foraging, game
Winner: Bushcraft and Survival Foundation preparation, axe and knife use, woodcraft and so much more.
Course Frontier Bushcraft
www.woodland-ways.co.uk/buy-online-woodland-ways-
weekend-6.html
Wild Food Forage Wilderness Survival Skills

Our countryside is packed with wild
foods and useful plants if you
know where to look! Almost every
The Bushcraft and Survival Foundation course is an engaging, flower, tree and mushroom has a use
hands-on and enjoyable one-day course in the woods learning and a story attached. On this two-
bushcraft and survival skills. day course you will be shown how
Participants describe leaving with a sense of achievement and an to identify edible and poisonous
increased confidence formed on the basis of new knowledge and plants, learn which species are good
skills. for food, medicine, cordage, making fire, insect repellent, natural
The course was glues, soap and even dyes. There will also be the opportunity to
designed to share prepare and cook wild game and fish using various wilderness
broadly applicable cookery techniques. Because of the changing seasons we run two
foundational foraging weekends, Spring and Autumn. The wild game, which
skills of bushcraft accompanies your
and survival. foraged food also
Topics covered changes depending
are grouped on which course you
under fire, shelter, attend.
water, food,
outdoor safety Visit: http://www.
and equipment. wilderness-survival.
Increased co.uk/wild-food-
knowledge in forage/
these areas has proven time and again to help keep people safe
and comfortable in the outdoors.
Because these foundational skills are very important, the course is
always led by one of Frontier Bushcrafts top instructors.
Visit: http://frontierbushcraft.com/courses/bushcraft-and-survival-
Best Bushcraft School
foundation-course/ Winner: Frontier Bushcraft
Finalists: Woodland Frontier Bushcraft was established in 2010 by Paul Kirtley. His
aim was two-fold - first, to pass on bushcraft skills via accessible,
Ways Weekend well-structured and enjoyable training courses; second, to guide
Woodland Ways people in wilderness areas where these skills can be employed,
consolidated and built upon. Pauls shared his vision, At the heart
Kevan Palmer, Senior Instructor at of what we wanted to do was to share, enthuse and enable. We
Woodland Ways says, We were want to share skills and knowledge with people, get them really
delighted to once again receive enthused about the possibilities and enable them to go out and
Follow Bushcraft & Survival Skills Magazine on Facebook

achieve things for winning the best bushcraft
they wouldnt school, well done all and lets carry on
otherwise have keeping our skills alive!
done.
About being Visit: www.woodland-ways.co.uk
voted Best
Bushcraft Wilderness
School, Paul Survival
says, Frontier Skills
Bushcraft was a
finalist in 2011. Pleased to
To receive this be a finalist,
accolade after being established for only a year was a big boost Wilderness
to our confidence. Now to have been voted Best Bushcraft School Survival Skills is a
is a fantastic recognition of how hard everyone at Frontier works. well established,
Im over-the-moon for the team. And Im very grateful to everyone fulltime bushcraft
who voted for us. school in
Wiltshire, running
a wide selection of fun and informative courses combining up-to-
date training and outdoors know-how with traditional skills and
crafts. Our site is mainly old hazel coppice surrounded by almost
2,500 acres of mixed woodland, much of it ancient. Friendly and
experienced instructors run one-day courses, bushcraft weekends,
five-day foundation courses, wild food weekends, primitive skills
With a team of 14 people who work to deliver courses and and traditional crafts courses and an advanced hunter-gatherer
expeditions, including amongst them renowned canoe coach week for the serious wilderness living enthusiast. Bespoke and
and expeditioner Ray Goodwin, Frontier Bushcraft run a range private group bookings can also be arranged.
of bushcraft courses in Sussex and the Lake District along with
Best Bushcraft Instructor

their overseas expeditions. With a team of 14 people who work
to deliver courses and expeditions, including amongst them
renowned canoe coach and expeditioner Ray Goodwin, Frontier
Bushcraft run a range of bushcraft courses in Sussex and the
Lake District along with their overseas expeditions.
Visit: http://frontierbushcraft.
com/
Finalists: Woodland
Ways Winner: Paul Kirtley -
Frontier Bushcraft
We managed to grab Jason Paul Kirtley is owner and Chief
Ingamells, owner of Instructor of Frontier Bushcraft
Woodland Ways and steal Ltd. He was previously Course
a few minutes between Director at Woodlore Ltd. Paul
expeditions and courses spent 10 years studying and
for a quick chat. Jason training under the guidance of
said, The whole team Ray Mears, first as a student on his
at Woodland Ways were bushcraft courses and then as an
overjoyed to be nominated employee. He is one of only a few
for the Best Bushcraft School people worldwide who have been
award again for the third recognised by Ray Mears as a bushcraft instructor, being awarded
year running and to have the celebrated antler-handled Woodlore instructors knife. Paul also
received recognition in all of holds the Mountain Leader Award.
the categories. Employing Paul puts strong emphasis on real-world application of bushcraft
the largest team of fulltime skills and this has been cemented by travels in Europe, North
permanent instructors America, Africa, Australia and Asia. As well as having his own
comes with its own unique adventures, Paul divides his time between teaching bushcraft,
set of challenges. In 2012 leading expeditions, and writing a popular and well-respected
we delivered over 900 days worth of instructional training in bushcraft blog.
the most extreme of environmental conditions both here and About being voted a winner in this category he said Im truly
overseas resulting in our busiest year ever. To receive the thanks honoured to receive this recognition from the readers of Bushcraft
of those who have attended courses with us is the highest and Survival Skills Magazine and all my students who voted for
accolade we could ask for. My thanks go to each and every one me. Ive always done my best to share as much knowledge with as
of you that voted for us to make Woodland Ways the success many people as possible. I hope that being highlighted in this way,
that it is. My sincere congratulations also go to Joe OLeary, a true allows me to be even more effective in sharing knowledge in the
legend of instruction, for his success in this years awards. Our future.
congratulations also go to Paul Kirtley at Frontier Bushcraft for a
truly overwhelming achievement in such a short space of operation Visit: http://paulkirtley.co.uk/about/

BEST IN BUSHCRAFT
Finalists: Jason Ingamells - Woodland Ways Best Bushcraft Retailer Online

Jason Ingamells is one of the Winner: Woodland Way
most well known instructors in
the industry, with many years of Woodland Ways has for many years
both instructional and personal now provided an online resource for
practical applied experience around sourcing the technical equipment
the world under his bushcraft that could save your life whilst either
belt. His passion for his subjects on expedition in the UK or overseas.
is infectious, his attention to the absolute detail of instruction is After all, who would you trust other than those instructors that
legendary, but he remains one of the most down to earth people use this equipment for
you are likely to meet real, in real situations. To
around the campfire. win the award this year
On his nomination this is a fantastic reflection
year for best bushcraft of all the hard work the
instructor Jason said, instructors have put in
It really is an honour over the years. Thank
to once again be put you to everyone who
in the category of Best has supported us via our
Bushcraft Instructor online shop and voted
quite humbling really. for us as a result.
I pride myself in doing
what we do well, I am Visit: www.woodland-ways.co.uk
blessed to have the privilege of working with some of the best
instructors in the industry, my own instructors such as Kev, Adam,
Martyn, Joanne, Jay and more, but also into the wider industry and Finalists: The Bushcraft Store
this recognition is theirs, not mine
Visit: http://www.woodland-ways.co.uk/instructors.html
Joe OLeary Wilderness Survival Skills

It is always rewarding knowing that our customers value our
Joe OLeary is the author of service and products and this is shown by being voted finalist
The Wilderness Survival Guide in both categories for 'Best Bushcraft Retailer Online and Best
and has been professionally Bushcraft Retail Store'.
involved in teaching survival We always strive to
and bushcraft courses since provide the best for our
2002. Following a lifelong customers, and readily
passion for the welcome suggestions
great outdoors and for new products, which
an overwhelming they find hard to source
desire to learn from other sources.
everything there With new and exciting
is to know about products on the way we
self-reliance in know we will surpass our
the wilderness, he customers expectations in the future.
started his own
school in 2007, Visit: www.thebushcraftstore.co.uk
Wilderness Survival
Skills which goes
Greenman Bushcraft
beyond basic
Greenman Bushcraft has been supplying
survival training and further towards advanced bushcraft skills and
the very best in Bushcraft and outdoor
primitive technology.
equipment for many years. They have
several thousand sq/ft of floor space, which is solely dedicated to
He prefers to lead by example, practicing what he preaches and so
your favourite brands and outdoor tools. Greenman Bushcraft is
as a result, teaches real skills from personal experience. Starting his
predominantly an online presence, but customers are welcome to
working life as a soldier and combat engineer, then becoming a
book an appointment
self employed carpenter and craftsman and even being involved in
to visit any of their
the food industry as a partner in his wifes business, his varied life
locations and talk over
experiences have produced a unique teaching style relaxed but
requirements with one
always striving for the highest possible standards. He also cooks a
of their team.
mean pancake!
Visit: www.
Visit: http://www.wilderness-survival.co.uk/joe-oleary/
greenmanbushcraft.
co.uk
Follow Bushcraft & Survival Skills Magazine on Facebook

Best Bushcraft Retail Store Best Bushcraft Online Content
Winner: The World of
Bushcraft Winner: Visit: frontierbushcraft.com
In 2012 Woodland Ways set up
the first bushcraft experience
centre to open in the UK. Joanne,
operations manager for Woodland
Ways explains. Jasons brief to us all was quite clear from the
start. We were to open the UKs first physical centre as a resource The hub of Frontier Bushcrafts online content sharing is its blog.
for bushcraft studies, a place where you could come and speak to The blog is written by chief instructor Paul Kirtley along with other
fulltime instructors members of the Frontier instructional team. There are also guest
about their work, articles from Ray Goodwin who collaborates with Frontier Bushcraft
have a free cup of on all of their canoeing trips.
tea and undertake
research into The blog features beginners advice, tips and tricks, bushcraft skills
far flung places tutorials, outdoor safety advice, equipment recommendations,
around the world, competitions, Frontier Bushcraft news and trip reports as well as
a place where you highlighting aspects of traditional skills from around the world.
could buy kit that
will last, the best Paul says, The ethos of Frontier Bushcraft is one of passing on
equipment for the knowledge. We dont own this knowledge, nobody does. The
task in hand. To buy Frontier Bushcraft blog is another way in which we can share
well and buy once! To be voted the Best Bushcraft Retail Store is what we know, highlight things weve found out about and share
a fantastic achievement and a true reflection of the sheer grit and experiences that we and our clients have had.
determination of our team to buck the current trends in the retail
sector. What we have created is truly unique but dont just take About winning Best Bushcraft Online Content Paul said, We really
our word for it! enjoy creating the blogs. We love it when people respond to what
weve posted and a conversation gets going as a result of it. In winning
Visit www.woodland-ways.co.uk/world-of-bushcraft.html this award, it tells us that others really appreciate what were doing
here too, which is fantastic!
Finalists: The Bushcraft Store
Visit: http://frontierbushcraft.com/frontier-bushcraft-blog/
Finalists: Visit: www.woodland-ways.co.uk

I recognise that people want
information to both research and
It is always rewarding knowing that our customers value our make informed decisions. Its quite
service and products and this is shown by being voted finalist a challenge to provide up-to-date,
in both categories for 'Best Bushcraft Retailer Online and Best current information for our thirst
Bushcraft Retail Store'. We always strive to provide the best for our for social media whilst out in the
customers, and readily welcome suggestions for new products, woods or overseas on expeditions.
which they find hard to source from other sources. With new To receive recognition for the sheer graft and determination
and exciting products on the way we know we will surpass our on getting this information out there is thanks enough. We can
customers expectations in the future. assure you there is nothing more funny than seeing a wilderness
instructor finishing a days work in the woods only to run off to the
Visit: www.thebushcraftstore.co.uk highest ground in order to reach a 3G signal so they can upload
their blog! Its the weird world of a survival instructor that we live
Ronnie Sunshines in! Jason Ingamells
Fantastic service is all Visit: www.bushcraftuk.com

about fantastic people
and at Ronnie Sunshines
we have afantastic team
of highly dedicated
professionals working
together to give all our
customers the very best
servicethey can. We are Each winner will receive a handcrafted award,
also very lucky to have an
which will be presented at The Bushcraft Show 2013,
amazing team of customers who we would like to say a bigthank
you to. Elvaston Castle and Country Park by the legend, John
Lofty Wiseman. Visit www.thebushcraftshow.co.uk
Visit: www.ronniesunshines.com

OUTDOOR LEARNING
MAKING A RUSTIC
GARDEN CHAIR by
Jo Schofield &
Fiona Danks
The majority of bushcraft books and TV programmes focus on
extreme survival, which many of us are happy to simply absorb
from the comfort of the sofa. We believe that young people,
in fact everyone, should be able to have a go themselves even
if it is just in the back garden! We all need to reconnect with
the natural world and that involves opportunities to touch it,
taste it, and play in it. Wild places ease the stresses and strains
of modern life, providing a sense of freedom and exuberance.
Outdoor crafts can show children that technology is not just
about pressing keys on a keyboard but can be about making
something that is practical and useful. We need to look at what
nature has to offer in a new light, appreciate the potential
of diverse raw materials such wood and discover how to use
natures free, renewable resources to make anything from a
cricket bat to a woven basket.
S
uch activities may take a long time, and they may be difficult; but we
have found that young people value the finished products all the
more for having made them themselves, and feel a sense of pride
in their achievement. This not only brings them closer to nature but also
connects them to ancient civilisations and technologies.
Wood in all its forms used to be the commonest and most inexpensive
material for many household and garden items; it was easily available,
versatile and renewable. Many of todays so-called wild woodlands were
managed and shaped over hundreds of years to produce a range of
wood products. In recent years there has been something of a revival
in woodland crafts, but it is perhaps the growth in popularity of willow
weaving which has been most dramatic.
Wood has always appealed to children; a dead stick can be anything from
an imaginary sword to a magic wand, while green wood can be whittled
to make a pea-shooter or carved into a bow and arrow. Generations of
young people have used wood to enhance their games or make their own
toys so we set out to try and find an activity that would keep our teenage
sons engaged.
We have to admit that it has sometimes been challenging to get our

teenagers outdoors. Teenage inertia can be hugely frustrating and
tough to break. Keep persevering: unplug them from electronic
gadgetry and get their friends involved. For generations teenagers
havent complied with their parents wishes, so dont be put off if
they ignore your well meaning ideas. Our idea to go on a course
to make these rustic chairs didnt go down well initially but once
they realised it involved using large dangerous tools they threw
themselves into the task at hand. They produced two distinctive
chairs and we had to literally drag them away at the end of a totally
absorbing day!
Making these chairs requires some competency in dealing with

sharp tools; this isnt an activity for young children. Rustic furniture
is eco-friendly and cheap, but dont expect it to last all that long.
Each piece will be different and you could be really creative and
incorporate quirky design features.
Remember to supervise all children using tools and show them how to
work safely (see safety tips below).
You will need:

Freshly cut green wood is better as its less likely to split when nailed
2x long back legs (approx 3-5 feet/1-1.5m x 2.5 inches/7cms)
2x short front legs (approx 18 inches/45cms x 2.5 inches/7cms)
8x short rungs (approx 18 inches/45cms x 2 inches/5cms)
A variety of thinner branches for the seat, back and arms
30-40 long nails minimum 3 inches/8cms (depends on the thickness of

your wood)
Loppers, bow saw, hammer and some good imagination!
Making the chair

Place the two long back legs on the ground parallel to each other and
about 14 inches/35cms apart. Join the legs together by nailing a rung
at the height you want the seat. Nail another one below this to form a
square.
Place the two short front legs on the ground parallel to each other and
join with two rungs as in step one. Make sure the rungs are at the same
height on both pairs of legs.

OUTDOOR LEARNING
chair and Jake found some lovely shaped twigs to make

more of a throne.
Sit down gingerly and see if your chair survives!

Have a go at making other pieces of rustic furniture; for
example, join together a series of straight thin logs by
binding with rope or nailing into place, then add some
legs to make raft-type benches or tables.
Safety tips
Tool safety is about knowing how to use tools
responsibly and appropriately as well as being
aware of the potential dangers and how to avoid
them;
This activity requires close supervision by an adult.

Always have a first-aid kit handy and ensure someone
present knows
how to use it.
Stand the front and back legs beside
each other on level ground and ask
Make sure everyone is aware of the potential dangers
someone to hold them so you can
of using sharp tools - accidents usually happen when
keep everything parallel. Nail rungs
people are messing around.
on to each side to make the basic
structure of your chair.
Before using a knife, make sure there is an imaginary no
entry zone all around you. To check you have enough
To increase strength, add two cross
space, stand up with your arms spread out and turn
pieces on to each side.
around you shouldnt be able to touch anyone or
anything.
Add branches for the seat and back.
There are many different ways of
Think about follow through in other words, where is
doing this make up your own
your blade likely to go if it slips? Is there anything or
design. Edward added arms to his
anyone in the way?
Never cut over your lap the femoral artery in the thigh
carries large volumes of blood, if severed you will lose a
pint of blood a minute.
Work the blade away from your body, and away from the hand
supporting the wood. Never cut towards your hand until you can use
it with great control.
Always cut on to a firm surface such as a steady log. If you need to

pass a knife to someone else, always do so with the handle pointing
towards the other person.
Always put knives and axes away in

their sheaths when not in use; never
leave them lying around.
At the end of each activity session

we always collect knives and other
tools and put them in a bag together.
Young people need to realise that
knives should only be used when
participating in craft activities; a knife
is a tool and never a weapon.
Give knives and other sharp tools the

respect they deserve: always stick to
the rules.
Copyright Jo Schofield and Fiona Danks January 2013

www.goingwild.net
Book Reviews
The Long Walk by It is a gritty visceral story, which
shows the atrocities of war, and the
Slavomir Rawicz innate instinct to survive. Rawicz
By Beau Beakhouse tells it in a unique way, and puts a
focus on the welcome, kindness
Price: 7.99 and hospitality showed to them
Author: Slavomir Rawicz by the indigenous peoples once
Publisher: Robinson Publishing they exited Russia, without which
ISBN: 978-1845296445 they would never have survived.
This contrasts with the declining
The first headlong rush slowed to a steady, racking lope. We jogged prevalence of these positive traits
along for hours, into the dawn and beyond it to another snow-filled in countries such as our own.
day, our packs bumping and pounding our backs as we went.
This book leaves the reader with a desire to experience nature in
The Long Walk tells the true story of Slavomir Rawiczs escape its most basic form without the supporting luxuries of everyday
from a Russian-controlled gulag in Siberia. It takes place after the life. A regular Bushcrafter is often familiar with this desire and it
German-Soviet invasion of Poland at the beginning of World War encourages the undertaking of expeditions into the wild.
II, and begins with the capture and arduous physical and mental
interrogation of Rawicz by the Russian secret police. Overall this book portrays many of the elements that make up
Bushcraft, with the author putting them into practice through sheer
After being given a long sentence at a corrupt trial, Rawicz endured necessity. It is definitely a recommended book for anyone interested
a gruelling transportation to Camp 303 in Siberia, alongside in the real outdoors.
thousands of other prisoners and quickly began to plot an escape.
His eventual 4000-mile journey, alongside six other escapees, The Long Walk is a moving, inspiring book, which depicts the
encompassed subarctic climates, deserts and the Himalayan hardships of life and the skills needed to survive whilst 'on the run'.
Mountains as they struggled towards British India. There are claims that Rawicz was not the true author and that some
of the facts in the book are incorrect, the authenticity of the book
All they escaped with, through good fortune inside the camp, is
is believable and there are elements unaddressed by the detractors
an axe and a knife, forcing them to survive with the bare essentials
so it is left with the reader to decide. Aside from this, this book is an
of Bushcraft, relying upon the ever-changing wilderness and the
informative, gripping and absorbing read.
assistance of native people.
Primitive Technology II itself is not that bad, but unfortunately some pictures are very grainy
and not too clear. But other than that comment the rest of the book
Ancestral Skills is great.
By Jack burgess
The section on dietary requirements and food sources was very
Price: 16.99 interesting, as were all the sections, but its funny how we call our
Edited by: David Westcott ancestors primitive yet they didnt suffer from obesity, diabetes
ISBN: 978-1-58685-098-2 and many other food related illnesses that we seem to be plagued
with in our modern society. I am sure if we took a greater interest
This is a great book, I enjoy trying in our ancestors and their skills we could make a better future for
to practice primitive skills and this ourselves and our children than the one we seem intent on making
book gives fantastic examples of now. I could go on about how we are heading, but I wont as the
just how primitive technology can book goes into this subject itself.
be used very effectively in todays
world. There are some great bow making tips and methods in the hunting
section and I am definitely going
Alarmingly the book also to have a go at one of them. In this section it tells of how the skills of
demonstrates how rapidly we are making an Eskimo bow were passed back to a village that had
losing these skills that were once forgotten how their ancestors made these bows. The elders of the
commonplace and a given for every man, woman and child to learn, village recall seeing these bows when they were very young, but
know and live with. It is terrible to think that in our modern society none had shot them or retained the knowledge and skills to make
there are tribes throughout the world that were once unrivalled them.
experts in such skills and now even they have to be taught these
forgotten skills by a small group of folk who refuse to let these I could go on and on about this book and the stories and skills
skills die. within, but I think you get the picture. I am extremely pleased to
now have this book in my collection and I am sure it will be read
The book is broken down into sections including; Searching the over and over to hopefully allow some of the knowledge and skills
Past, Food Sources, Containers, Projectiles, Buckskin, Transportation, to be absorbed by yours truly.
and Back to Basics, each of these sections being further broken
down into relevant subsections.
There are photos, cartoons and pictures a-plenty within the pages to
WIN A COPY OF THESE BOOKS.
WIN!
illustrate and elaborate on the text. My only negative comment on
the book is regarding the photos, all are black and white, which in Send in your details to win a copy of
one of thse books, detailing which you
would like to win.
82 BUSHCRAFT & survival skills magazine (see T&Cs p3)

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2012 SO Publications & Events Ltd. All rights

Lois makes custom

Ben Orford 1/4.indd 1 06/05/2010 14:25

MEET THE CONTRIBUTORS...

John Lofty Wiseman should need

Bushcraft for Beginners Bushcraft IN FRANCE

To win great bushcraft prizes, send in your

BOWS, THE BRITISH

Using another tree as a pulley

by Richard Lees MSc

If the brace height After splitting the trunk

BUSHCRAFT & survival skills magazine 9

On this occasion, I decided to forego a one piece ash bow. Instead,

approximately one centimetre, as shown in the

The next step is to set up what is known as a

The tillering station is essentially a fence post

Noting where it needs to bend more, shave off a

After the oils have sunk in, you can bone

Finally, if you so desire, you can bind the

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It is still often the case that

If you are near the coast or

Try to make sure that you

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We hope this helps and remember to think laterally and have a

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Water vole aka Water Rat

photo by Nigel Grigsby

Water voles feed in the open making them good

water levels. This acts as an early warning system to enable them to

photo by Nigel Grigsby

BUSHCRAFT & survival skills magazine 23

In areas of the UK where American mink have been eradicated,

Fresh water vole scat and tracks

Whats going on during

Birds Listen out for Skylarks. Ducks mate, and the

understand that if you volume of soil.

Cattail growth is stored as starch in amongst the fibres at the core of

Once cooked, break open the rhizome with your fingers,

To absolutely positively identify cattail plants, you must look

A stand of cattail growing in a water-filled depression in

When a yellow flag plant is in flower, it is quite obviously

BUSHCRAFT & survival skills magazine 27

Cattails are the single most important plant-based survival

A stand of yellow flag plants growing in the shallow

The flowers of burdock resemble the flowers of

The cross section of yellow flag is very thin except for a

Comparing the leaf cross-section is a highly reliable way to tell

While the potential proximity

Burdock has a wide geographical distribution in temperate parts

One of the most important things to understand about burdock is

It is the root that we are interested in as food. This USO is a good

The one downside of seeking out burdock as a source of food is