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American - Survival.guide July.2017 FiLELiST
American - Survival.guide July.2017 FiLELiST
ALONE
20 MUST-HAVES FOR
SELF-RELIANCE
VOLUME 6 - ISSUE 7
BARGAIN
BLADES
10 Great Knives Under $100
GOTTA GET A
GUN SHOP
Theres No Substitute for a
Professional Gunsmith
DRESS FOR
SUCCESS
The Outdoorsmans First
Line of Defense
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102
PREVENT THE MORTAL
BLOW
Avoid traumatic brain injuries.
By Joseph J. Kolb, M.A.
120
DRESS FOR SUCCESS
The outdoorsmans first line of defense
By Reuben Bolieu
AMERICAN SURVIVAL GUIDE (ISSN 2331-8937) is published 12 times a yearJanuary, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November,
Decemberby Engaged Media, Inc., 17890 Sky Park Circle, Suite 250, Irvine, CA 92614. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to American Survival Guide c/o VSI, Inc. 905 Kent Street,
Liberty, MO 64068. 2017 by Engaged Media, Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction of any material from this issue in whole or in part is strictly prohibited. GST #855050365RT001
Canada Post: Publications Mail Agreement #40612608. Return undeliverable Canadian addresses to: PITNEY BOWES, INC. P.O. Box 25542 London, ON N6C 6B2, Canada.
GEAR
GUIDE
76
ESSENTIALS FOR
30 66 INDEPENDENCE
Great additions to your
self-reliance supplies
14 By Jim Cobb
DEPARTMENTS
6
FIRST WORDS
8
NEW PRODUCTS
130
LAST WORDS
76
84 48
BEWARE
CONTRIBUTORS
Dana Benner, Reuben Bolieu, Jim Cobb, Kevin Estela, Jim Jeffries,
Joe Kolb, M.A., Frank Philips, Larry Schwartz, Peter Suciu
ADVERTISING
Gabe Frimmel Ad Sales Director
(714) 200-1930
OF TROJAN
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Joe Galloway Senior Account Executive
(863) 370-4376
HORSES
Danny Chang Senior Account Executive
(714) 200-1900 ext. 1948
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(714) 200-1931
John Bartulin Account Executive
(866) 866-5146 ext. 2746
John Cabral Advertising Design
E
Eric Gomez Advertising Traffic Coordinator
Gennifer Merriday Advertising Traffic Coordinator
MARKETING
Elise Portale Content Marketing Manager
veryone is familiar with the story of from having to test your defenses to their limit. Brooke Sanders Content Marketing Specialist
how the Greeks caused the demise of Had Troys Paris not absconded with Helen (the Eric Surber Content Marketing Specialist
Michael Chadwick Digital Marketing & Media Coordinator
Troy with the masterful subterfuge wife of one of the Greek leaders), there would Andrew Dunbar Videographer
of the famous Trojan Horse. While have been no war. Dont mess with other peoples OPERATIONS
Robert Short IT Manager
there are several descriptions of families or their stuff unless youre prepared to Parveen Kumar Newsstand and Circulation Analyst
what transpired, the gist is that the rulers of Troy defend your actions. Shailesh Khandelwal Subscriptions Manager
Alex Mendoza Administrative Assistant
accepted the story that the Greeks had set out to Listening to cooler heads and seeking and follow- Victoria Van Vlear Intern Program Manager
sea and that the 10-year siege of Troy was over. ing advice from credible sources can be critical to EDITORIAL, PRODUCTION & SALES OFFICE
The horse was built as an offering to the goddess your eventual and continued success. The leaders 17890 Sky Park Circle, Suite 250, Irvine, CA 92614
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safe passage home. the Greeks horse into the city, but their egos and www.facebook.com/eembybeckett
Because the horse was the emblem of the city shortsightedness became their undoing. AMERICAN SURVIVAL GUIDE (ISSN 2331-8937) is published in January, February,
of Troy, its rulers decided to haul it inside the citys American Survival Guide is your source for advice March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November and
December by Engaged Media Inc., LLC, 17890 Sky Park Circle, Suite 250, Irvine,
walls as a trophy of their apparent victory. Late and information on a wide variety of prepping and CA 92614. POSTMASTER: SEND ADDRESS CHANGES TO AMERICAN
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that night, when the Greeks had returned from sea survival topics that should be integrated into your LIBERTY, MO 64068.
under cover of darkness and the horses comple- plans and preparations. Youll save time, effort and 2017 by Engaged Media, Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction of any material
from this issue in whole or in part is strictly prohibited. GST#855050365RT001.
ment of approximately 40 of Greeces best soldiers money by reading our gear reviews and learning Canadian Post: Publications Mail Agreement Pitney Bowes, Inc., P.O. Box 25542,
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emerged from hiding, the gates were opened, and from experts who provide instruction on a wide
the city fell to the Greeks. variety of topics that support your efforts. Together, CUSTOMER SERVICE
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turn down what looks on the surface to be an act that one should refrain from questioning its
of kindness from an established nemesis. Whether value. The fact is, if youre in a survival situation,
the enemy is a person, group or force of nature is you should question everything to a reasonable
irrelevant, because the likely outcome is the same, degree, because you will not get second chances. ENGAGED MEDIA INC.
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regardless of the type of foe youre facing. If your life, or that of anyone in your group, is Jason Mulroney Director of Content
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Dont assume your defensesor your skill in dependent on anything that comes from outside Philip Trinkle Newsstand Sales Director
using themwill protect you from all opposition. that immediate group, it is in your best interest to Bob Hulsy Director of Business Development
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The walls of Troy were strong enough to repel be cautious about its origin and its possible impact
This magazine is purchased by the buyer with the understanding that
the Greeks, but one bad decision rendered them on your safety and security. In a dire situation, its information presented is from various sources from which there can be no
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1 3 5
Streamlight Bandit Rothco Concealed- Superesse
Headlamp Carry Jacket Patch Kit
Streamlights newest entry into the headlamp are- This concealed-carry jacket from Rothco is Morale patches are found on packs, pouches, hats
na is lightweight, yet powerful. The Bandit comes perfect for both right- and left-handed shooters. and sleeves. Few would see one and imagine it
with an elastic strap to keep it in place on your Inside the jacket, youll find an inner pocket contains anythinglet alone lifesaving gear and
head, but the light can also attach to the brim of a and two magazine pouches on each side. supplies. Each patch is laser cut and is modified
ball cap. On the high setting, the Bandit blasts out The lightweight cotton-and-polyester-blend with a storage pocket inside. The patch shown here
a full 180 lumens. At a mere 1.3 ounces and fewer material wont weigh you down and looks quite is the MacGyver, or supply, pouch, which contains
than 3 inches long, it will fit into all but the smallest handsome. You can be tactical without freaking tools and items useful in everyday situations.
of kits. The internal battery charges in a couple of people out on the bus or train (always a plus!). Superesse has 15 different patch kits, including first
hours via USB. aid and escape-and-evasion.
Features
Features Two zippered handwarmer pockets Features
Three modes: high (180 lumens), low (35 lu- Adjustable wrist closures Screwdriver head
mens), emergency flash (180 lumens) 55% cotton/45% polyester construction Duct tape
Rechargeable lithium battery Full-length front zipper Cordage
Available in yellow or black Available in black or coyote brown Small blade
Weight: 1.3 ounces Sizes: small4XL Additional supplies
Width: 2.7 inches Patch size: 3x2 inches
MSRP
MSRP $81.99 MSRP
$35 $40
URL
URL www.Rothco.com URL
www.Streamlight.com www.SuperesseStraps.com
2 4 6
Extreme Wilderness Dragonfire Flint Wazoo Cache Belt
Survival and Steel Set The Cache Belt leaves old-fashioned money belts
in the dust. A hidden pouch runs a full 2 feet along
One of the latest survival manuals to hit the market This fire-making kit is a collaboration among several the back of the belt, allowing you to covertly store
is this one, written by noted survival instructor (and well-respected outdoors craftsmen: Malcolm all manner of gear and supplies. At a minimum,
American Survival Guide contributor) Craig Caudill. Coderre of The Hidden Woodsmen designed the the Cache Belt can carry a supply of cash, as well
This is a no-nonsense look at wilderness situations, carrying pouch; Mikhail Merkurieff, creator of the as travel documents and other essentials, so you
along with emergency preparedness in general. Emberlit stove, created the dragon-themed steel dont need to worry about pickpocketsat home
Caudill is the founder of Nature Reliance School striker; and the Texas chert included in the kit was or abroad.
and has taught survival and tracking to members provided by Jonathan Burton. Included with the kit is
of the military, as well as law enforcement officers a 16-ounce tin stuffed with natural tinder collected Features
from federal, state and local agencies. by Dragonfire owner Daryl Halseth and his team. Available in waist sizes from 26 to 56 inches
Gray with carbon steel buckle or black with
Features Features stainless steel buckle
Suitable for beginners and seasoned outdoors- Texas chert and steel striker May be purchased empty or complete with
men, alike Fatwood and chaga pieces survival kit for an added charge
Covers survival mindset, shelter, food, water and
MSRP MSRP
many other topics
$75 Not available
Paperback, 192 pages
7.4x8.9 inches URL URL
www.DragonfireTinderbox.com www.WazooSurvivalGear.com
MSRP
$21.99
URL
www.PageStreetPublishing.com
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blade styles to use for self-defense. We are taught Kit is small enough to just toss into your bug-out or
from a young age how to make a fist; a push knife get-home bag and forget its there until you need it.
adds a sharp edge to that natural weapon. With The kit contains all you need to get a flame in any
The SPEAR System utilizes the bodys hard-
a single finger hole and ergonomic shape, the weather condition. The Kevlar thread and flange
wired flinch-and-startle reflex and turns it into
Tecpatl is designed to be quickly deployed from its bearing are used for making a bow drill.
close-quarter defensive tactics. Tony Blauer
Kydex sheath. The sheath has multiple attachment
has been teaching this personal defense Features
points, allowing you to position it just where you
system to civilians, law enforcement officers Ferro rod and striker
need it most.
and military personnel for almost 30 years. In Butane lighter and waterproof matches
this DVD, the science and theory behind the Features Fresnel lens
SPEAR System are discussed. From there, the Overall length: 5.813 inches Includes a knife, wire saw and more
system basics are covered, such as stance, Blade length: 3.375 inches Zippered Mylar pouch keeps contents dry
flow and drills. Blade steel: SK5 carbon Size: 7.5x4.25 inches
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B.O.S.S. Fishing
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SOL Escape Pro The Phoenix is an interesting spin on the tradi-
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Bivvy ferrocerium rod that flips out like the blade on a procuring fish and game in the wild. The B.O.S.S.
jackknife. Along one side of the Phoenix's body Fishing and Hunting Survival Kit includes all man-
is a small compartment for holding tinder. The ner of fishing gear, such as an automatic reel, line,
This bivvy might be all you need, even when
other side has a small fixed-blade knife. The knife weights, floats and several types of bait.
nighttime temps dip down to 40 degrees (F).
The SOL Escape Pro Bivvy is waterproof, wind- is also the striker for the ferro rod. In addition, the Features
proof and reflects 90 percent of your body heat Phoenix has a 9-lumen LED light to help you find Kit includes more than 120 components
back to you. On top of all that, it is breathable, so fuel for your fire, along with a built-in whistle to Folding multi-tool, razor blade
you dont end up with moisture inside the bivvy. assist you in getting found if you lose your way. Several types of line plus snare wire
It has a 24-inch zippered side opening and taped Features 7.5 inches high, 4.25 inches wide
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11
12
Venturing out of
the marked channels
can lead to ground-
ings. Here, a 58-foot
commercial fishing
vessel must wait
for high tide to lift
her from the rocky
bottom. (Photo:
PA3 Christopher D.
McLaughlin, U.S.
Coast Guard)
COAST
paid attention to weather reports. It was in those situations that we would hunt. The searches
were often conducted by aircraft (such as the HC-130 Hercules) that could drop emergency
GUARD
supplies to survivors, keeping them alive until a helicopter or cutter could arrive to pull them
from the sea.
MISSIONS &
CARIBBEAN RESCUE MISSIONS
Another pressing mission for the Coast Guard was (and still is) migrant interdiction. Haitian
migrants would pack themselves into rickety watercraft and set sail across the Caribbean on a
northwesterly course, hoping to make landfall somewhere along the United States coastline.
Crammed together like sardines in a can, they had only the clothes on their backs to protect
them from the elements, and rarely were any life jackets present.
Leaky boats overloaded with 100 or more people aboard would set out with a single cloth sail
MATERIEL
In 1978, there were slightly more than 40,000
that was hung from a makeshift masta giant sack of dry rice and a drum of fresh water being
active-duty Coast Guard personnel; that is the same
their only sustenance for a journey that could for last weeks. Certainly, not all of them made it.
number of men and women currently serving active duty.
A constant flow of cutters, augmented by aircraft, patrolled off the Florida Coast between
Todays Coast Guard has all the responsibilities it had in
the Bahamas, Cuba and the Turks and Caicos Islands. Once located, the migrants were brought
the pastplus more: In 2002, the U.S. Coast Guard was
aboard the cutters and tended to. Medical issues were addressed, bathing and sanitation
moved from the U.S. Department of Transportation to
facilities were provided, everyone was given bedding, and all were able to eat and drink as much
the newly created Department of Homeland Security.
as they desired. Then, with a deck full of migrants, we would head to Haiti and turn them over
Homeland Security missions include ports, waterways
to government officials.
and coastal security, drug interdiction, migrant interdic-
tion, defense readiness and other law enforcement.
SHARING THE BENEFITS OF LESSONS LEARNED
Non-Homeland security missions include marine
By this time, I was reaching the end of my second tour of duty and decided not to re-enlist.
safety, search-and-rescue, aids to navigation and ice
Now, more than 30 years later, I still miss the ships and my shipmates.
operations (The Coast Guard operates the U.S. ice break-
But the lessons I learned and the training I received have continued to serve me and the
ers responsible for keeping shipping lanes open from the
community in the years since, teaching boat safety, explaining the rules of the road, channel
North Pole to the South Pole and the Great Lakes).
markers and buoys, and more to boaters.
U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Sweetbrier and many more of
Working as the manager of a marina, I had the knowledge necessary to prepare a landing
the pre-World War II-era ships that were still in service
area for a helicopter coming in to evacuate a young lady who had been ejected during a boat
into the 1990s have been decommissioned (some have
collision. She was suffering from a life-threatening injury and needed to quickly get to a hospital
been scrapped, and some are serving in the navies of
more than 60 miles away. There was not enough time to transport her by ground.
other countries). New ships and aircraft, including the
MH-60T Jayhawk, are replacing the old assets, thereby
ITS JUST A FACT THAT MARINERS allowing the Coast Guard to continue conducting
missions vital to the nations security and safety at sea
GET CAUGHT IN HURRICANES. SHIPS more efficiently and effectively.
LARGE ENOUGH TO RIDE IT OUT OFTEN Technologies and materials designed to protect
personnel from the extreme elements reduce the like-
DO, BUT THOSE ON SMALLER CRAFT, lihood of hypothermia and other hazards encountered
ESPECIALLY SAILBOATS, CAN QUICKLY in day-to-day activities. This includes gear that was in
FIND THEMSELVES IN PERIL. short supply or non-existent in the 1970s and 80s.
The last two ships I served onU.S. Coast Guard
Cutters Tampa and Harriet Laneare now more than
30 years old and still going strong. May they continue
upholding the highest Coast Guard standards for many
years to come.
Semper Paratus!
S
ince the dawn of time, the invention, cultivation and control of fire
comprise one of mankinds greatest achievements. Because of it,
he was able to cook his meals and avoid food-borne parasites and
bacteria; he was able to extend the day by adding light to his camp, also
thereby warding off predators; and he was able to adapt to harsh winter
climates by keeping warm around a fire. These benefits havent changed much in the
last million years, because man still hovers around the fire to cook food, keep warm
and light up the night.
FIRE CONSTRUCTION
Much as a specific knife has a particular Below: This is a
great illustration of
function or how specialized boots will
what can happen
handle different terrain, not all camp fires when you roughly
toss a log on a large
are equal. The purpose of the firewhether fire. The resulting
its to warm, cook, provide light, last all airborne embers
can quickly become
night, signal or to be stealthydeter- a hazard if youre
mines the way it should be built. There not careful.
GETTYIMAGES.COM/BY: GOGIYA
1. LONG FIRE
The long fire can be built above ground
using two long logs (shown) or in a
shallow trench. Either way, the effect of
the logs and trench is to shade the fire
from unwanted wind and to keep the
coals together. The proximity of the logs
depends on how large a fire you need and
the diameter of your cooking pots.
This fire lay, built next to a large reflector
(such as a boulder or the wall of a ravine),
can be used to keep a nearby tent warm. The
sticks underneath the long logs allow oxygen
to reach the coals.
3. STAR FIRE
Also known as the Indian fire, this is a safe fire layone that can be easily con-
trolled by pushing in or pulling out the arms of the star. It is also good for conserving
fuel, because it produces a small fire that will burn for a long time (as long as you
WAYS
TO
keep pushing in the fuel as it burns).
Because the logs of each arm can be of any length, the fire will remain the same size
as long as it is burning. The stones between each arm keep the coals concentrated
IGNITE
in the middle.
4. PYRAMID FIRE
A FIRE
With large-sized fuel at the bottom and smaller and smaller fuel positioned as you go
toward the top, the pyramid fire is a self-feeding fire. As the levels burn, it will fall in on
itself, thereby adding new fuel from the upper levels as the bottom levels burn.
This is a great, long-lasting fire that will keep burning, maintenance free, for hoursbut it
Although there are many ways to start
takes a great deal of fuel to build. By keeping the levels close together, you starve the fire of
The pyramid
a fire (some are unintentional, such as
oxygen so it will burn slower. If done correctly, by morning, a nice bed of coals will remain. fire lay method
an electrical short, a lightning strike or a
chemical combination), many of the ways
to intentionally start a fire without matches
are mechanical and creative.
MAGNIFICATION OF SUNLIGHT
Magnifying glass
Flashlight reflector
Bottle or bag of water
Polished Coke can bottom
Convex piece of ice
Fresnel lens
Solar dish
ELECTRICAL
9-volt battery and steel wool
Car battery and jumper cables
Battery and fishhook
Car cigarette lighter
Lightbulb filament
MECHANICAL SPARK
Flint and steel
Ferrocerium rod and steel
FRICTION
Fire plow
Spindle
Crooked stick
Bow drill
Rope drill
6. TEEPEE FIRE
This is the most popular kind of fire lay
used; its the one almost everyone builds
when constructing a fire. It burns large,
bright, hot and quickly. With the fuel
angled in this manner, it creates a natural
chimney that funnels a great deal of air
into the spaces at the bottom, creating a
very large fire.
The teepee fire lights easily and is easy
to maintain (simply lay on more fuel), but
the downside is that it is also a tall fire, so
make sure not to construct this one under
overhanging branches.
If you toss on some green foliage
for smoke, the teepee fire becomes a
perfect signal fire.
8. LEAN-TO FIRE
The lean-to fire is used mainly to direct the
heat in a specific way: toward you. The sup-
port stick can be propped up with rocks, while
larger and larger pieces of fuel are leaned up
against it. The tinder and kindling are lit inside,
and the fuel acts as a wind break.
This fire allows for a lot of airflow and
Altar, platform or snow-base fire lay
9. V FIRE
This fire lay is a slightly modified version
of the long fire. The shape of the V via
two large logs allows you to either block
the wind (if it is especially harsh) or take
advantage of a slight breeze to feed oxygen
to the fire. The V is placed either pointed
toward or against the wind, depending on
GETTYIMAGES.COM/BY: HENN PHOTOGRAPHY
YOUR
FIREARMS
FRIEND
W
is not a task for the
unskilled.
They have earned a reputation for creating
firearms that perform as incredibly as they
look. Their custom work has been delivered e have all seen the guy in his yard working on his own car, day in
to all parts of the country as far away as and day out, with no success. Stubborn pride prevents him from
Alaska, and even the Colombian police getting professional help with his mechanical issues, and he is
department is armed with their work south likely causing more harm than good by addressing problems above
of the border. his pay grade.
JoJos Gun Works is located in New The same stubborn pride that backyard tinkerers suffer from is found in some gun
England in the center of American firearms owners. They strip apart their firearms and hammer parts together. Fine mechanical parts
history. Jody, a gunsmith graduate of the are mashed or ground down, and precise tolerances are ignored or exceeded.
Colorado School of Trades, is the chief Its said that the two loudest sounds in the world are a gun that goes click when it
builder of 1911s for competition, carry should go bang and a gun that goes bang when it should go click. Mess around with your
and collection. John is the gunsmith who firearms beyond your knowledge of maintenance and repair, and one of these two sounds
handles most of the modern polymer pistol will echo in your ears.
jobs, as well as AR15 builds. Additionally, Is that a chance you want to take? Is that a chance you want to trust your or your
there are five other employees with various familys safety to?
Jody Joseph (left) This is where a proper gunsmith comes into playwith a strong emphasis on proper.
specialties who work at JoJos; these and John Napierski
include custom grip and stock building, grip (right) comprise the A gunsmith is not just someone who knows guns; rather, he or she is someone who has
combined effort
reductions and machining. been properly trained in how to assemble, disassemble, modify, fix and maintain firearms.
behind JoJos Gun
JoJos is a full-time gun shop that is Works. Training is more than reading how-to manuals found at gun shows or watching YouTube
closed only seven days a year and not a
part-time operation. It is a Class III manu-
facturer in all firearms and an FFL dealer.
The employees on JoJos staff enjoy shoot-
ing as much as they do working on firearms.
In fact, some of their work has been
featured in the pages of American Survival
Guide over the past few years, including a
customized Smith & Wesson Model 66, M1A
and the Remington 870 Police.
JoJos has both a showroom and store-
front and will also accept orders via phone
and e-mail.
videos. Just as you wouldnt trust the A Glock frame your long gun or sidearm back to the manufacturer than look at it themselves. Many gun
is held in a vise at
vehicle you drive your family around in to JoJos Gun Works stores are in the firearms industry only to make money, not help the customer.
the guy working on cars in his backyard, you while it is in the A gun shop, on the other hand, is generally staffed with shooters who know pistols, re-
process of being
shouldnt trust the firearm that you use to stippled. volvers, rifles and shotguns inside and out. Rather than putting you out in the coldyour
protect your home and family to just anyone. firearm en route to the factorytheyll often diagnose the problem and fix it right there.
Here is how to locate a quality gunsmith Sometimes, they can take care of it while you wait for just a few minutes.
and research what they can accomplish Its easy to locate a quality gun shop via modern technology, but you shouldnt believe
with some common firearm types. only what you hear online. Beyond looking up customer reviews, talk to those who use
firearms regularly and professionally, and find out whom they use to keep their work
SELECT A SHOP guns running. Seek out the gunsmith or gun shop responsible for fixing your local police
Search your local Yellow Pages (if you departments firearms or where big-box stores send trade-in firearms for inspection or
still have one of those), and youll likely repair before reselling them to their customers.
find numerous listings for firearms stores. Listen to the advice of the oldest guy at your shooting range. He has likely seen gun
A firearms store is not the same as a gun stores and shops come and go. He probably also has an opinion not formed by Internet
shop. The guy working the counter at your gun celebrities, TV training or the opinions of newly minted pistol-permit holders working
firearms store might know little about behind the counter.
firearms but talks a big game and is a Before you leave your granddaddys pistol in the hands of a stranger, visit that gun
salesman first. Think of a gun store as an shop and do some recon. You should gauge how well the smiths interact with customers.
auto dealership and a gun shop as the Below, left: Greg Make small talk with people waiting while their firearms are worked on. Use your gut
from JoJos Gun
service center around back. Works measures instinct to determine if that shop is the right one for you.
If you are new to firearms, you might washers to ensure a Some gunsmiths are known for their work on one type of firearm, but a competent
Surefire flash hider
wonder what to do with your firearm if and suppressor gunsmith will be able to address concerns with any rifle, handgun or shotgun. Ask to see
adapter will line
it doesnt work as intended. There are samples of their work, and take note of their specialty. Ultimately, make your decision
up correctly and
many gun stores that would sooner ship attach firmly. based on the sense of trust you have in their work. After all, if you are using their firearm
Left: An assort-
ment of spare
parts can usually
be found in gun
shops. At times,
oddball parts
might be hard to
locate or are even
unavailable and
must be fabricated
from scratch.
PISTOLS
Whether you have a 1911, Glock or any
pistol found in between, a quality gun
shop can help fit the pistol to the user.
Customized grip panels can be made from
various synthetics such as Micarta and
G10 or exotic materials such as desert
ironwood or mother-of-pearl for form
and/or function.
Grip reductions, undercut trigger guards
and beavertail upgrades are some of
the ways a master grip can be improved.
Slide serrations, dehorning and custom-
ized porting of the barrel and slide are
some common enhancements made to
the slides of pistols found on the bench
of reputable gunsmiths. Pistols with
traditional gun bluing can be refinished
with more-durable modern coatings
and finishes to withstand the elements
and holster wear.
MODERN SEMIAUTOS
The AR15, AK and M1A are three of the John Napierski
from JoJos
most popular modern sporting rifles. Their inspects a custom-
ized AR prior to
popularity makes them common firearms delivering it to a
worked on in an average gun shop. While customer.
MISCELLANEOUS SERVICES
Gun shop services dont stop with the
custom guns seen on magazine covers.
What pays the bills for many gunsmiths
are the small jobs not easily done and con-
sidered far less glamorous than working
with high-tech black rifles and race pistols.
Many times, gunsmiths are asked to
mount optics with the correct amount
of torque for the rings and ring screws.
Other times, they might do a complete
disassembly and cleaning of a well-used
firearm, including rust removal. A good Highly customized 1911 pistols featuring custom slide Titanium nitride barrel refinishing and slide cutouts are
gunsmith will be able to save you time cuts and hand-fit parts (Photo: John Napierski) extremely popular modifications. (Photo: John Napierski)
KERSHAWKNIVES.COM
38 AMERICAN SURVIVAL GUIDE [JULY 2017]
CONFEDERATE HOLDOUTS
Not every survivor tale happened on
such a grand scale. Wars have always
Below: Equipment
used by members
of the Czech
resistance during
World War II at the
Church of Cyril and
Methodiusthe
holy place where
resistance mem-
bers took refuge
after the successful
assassination of
Reinhard Heydrich
in 1942. (Photo:
Peter Suciu)
who kept up the fight in Germanys New Guinea colony after it was overrun in late 1914.
Detzner was a colonial officer in the Schutztruppe and was on a surveying mission when
the war broke out. When he heard that the German colony was overrun by the Australians,
Detzner and his force of just 70 men headed into the interior and fought a guerilla campaign
for the next four yearswhile trying to escape to neutral territory. He finally surrendered in
January 1919 after learning the war had ended.
Right: Lithuanian partisan Adolfas Ramanauskas (code name Vanagas) was one of the Forest
Brothers who carried on a war against the Soviet Union after the end of World War II. He relied on a
mix of German and Soviet equipment and was able to survive, in part, from support from local farmers.
(Photo: Public Domain)
COMMON THREADS
The big question in these modern holdout something similar going on psychologically.
stories is, What drives the individual soldier This would certainly explain why those Japanese soldiers and other partisans con-
to refuse to surrender? In many cases, the tinued the fight. There was nothing to live for, yet these men, and a few women, just
answer is simple: fanaticism, rather than an werent ready to give up.
urge to survive. A couple of common threads throughout all these impressive survival stories are the
Quite a few Nazi true believers commit- desire and internal strength to stay committed to a belief or cause and the ability to live
ted suicide right before or immediately off the land with limited supplies. As preppers and survivalists know so well, attitude
after the capitulation, explained political and aptitude, paired with a strong commitment to carry on, comprise the base upon
ASG-1707-On the Edge Brands 3/14/17 2:17 PM Page 1
analyst Nick Ottens. My guess is theres which survival stories are built. (Read another story of survival on the next page.)
1 BLADE HQ
WWW.BLADEHQ.COM
2 DISCOUNT CUTLERY
WWW.DISCOUNTCUTLERY.NET
WEB RESOURCE
COLD If youre interested in learning more about the anatomy
STEEL
of knives, the author recommends visiting a site not
mentioned in the story, because the products dont
SURVIVAL meet the $100 price cap. Custom knifemaker Jay Fisher
designs his own pieces and builds them by hand. His
KNIFE
knife construction.
You can also browse around and start a wish list for when
OVERVIEW you have some extra cash burning a hole in your pocket.
With an overall length of 10.75 inches and
a 6-inch SK-5 steel blade, the SRK is one WWW.JAYFISHER.COM
of my favorite fixed blades. It comes very
sharp from the factory and, at 8.5 ounces,
it has the weight to work well for chopping
small branches and batoning larger pieces
of wood. The synthetic Kray-Ex handle
stays in the hand without slipping, and the
handles ergonomics work well with the
hand for long-term use. A popular knife with
military and tactical law enforcement per-
sonnel, the SRK is the standard-issue knife
of the Navy SEALS for their BUDS training,
proving its worth time and time again in the
most demanding environments.
MRSP
starts at $69.99
URL
www.ColdSteel.com
MRSP
$99
URL
www.BucknBearKnives.com
This knife's handle is made of
synthetic Kraton G material that
absorbs shock when using the
knife for hard work, and it helps
keep it from slipping in your hand.
(Photo: KA-BAR) With similar lines as the Tom
Brown Tracker knife, the Buck n
Bear Tactical Bushcraft Tracker
is a solid backcountry tool.
(Photo: Buck n Bear)
KA-BAR
SHORT
BLACK
KA-BAR,
SERRATED
OVERVIEW
This knifes big brother, the full-sized KA-BAR
combat knife, rode on my web gear during my
entire time as an infantry officer in the U.S.
Army, and I used it every day while in the field.
This shorter version will provide the same
level of service. Its shorter length actually
makes it a little easier to use in tighter spaces.
The full-tang 1095 Cro-Van steel blade is 5.5
inches long and 0.165 inch thick. The handle
is made of synthetic Kraton G material that
absorbs shock when using the knife for hard
work, and it helps keep it from slipping in
your hand.
MRSP
$77.38
URL
www.KaBar.com
MRSP
$64
URL
www.SOGKnives.com
GERBER
STRONGARM
KNIFE
OVERVIEW
The StrongArm is a next-generation version
of Gerbers venerable LMF design. The
4.8-inch blade is made with 420HC steel
and is offered in fine and partially serrated
versions. The HC steel has a ceramic coating
that protects it from corrosion, and the blade
takesand holdsa very sharp, long-lasting
edge. The glass-filled nylon handle has a
comfortable overmolded rubber surface with
a debossed diamond pattern texture to help
with retention, even when your hands are
wet or slimy. The StrongArms overall length
is 9.8 inches, with a spike pommel that can
be used as a glass-breaker or as a defensive
impact weapon. Possibly the most interesting
and innovative feature of the StrongArm is its
sheath, which is user customizable and allows
two-way carry on a belt, as a drop-leg and on
MOLLE platforms. Black and coyote brown
handle/sheath color options are available.
MRSP
$86
URL
www.GerberGear.com
MRSP
$49.99
URL
www.CRKT.com
Although they're often hard to find, good knife shops are excellent ways to
learn about and examine the knives you are interested in.
MRSP
$79.99
URL
www.Kershaw.KAIUSALtd.com
The US-Assist features Gerbers
innovative B.O.S.S. Tech ball
bearing system to provide
smooth assisted opening.
(Photo: Gerber)
GERBERS
US-ASSIST
420HC
OVERVIEW
The US-Assist is one of Gerbers newer
knives and employs its innovative
B.O.S.S. Tech ball bearing system that
provides very smooth assisted-open-
ing deployment. Designed with the
features you look for in an everyday
carry (EDC) pocket knife, it has a
single, 3-inch 420 HC steel blade that
locks in place with Gerbers cross bolt
safety. Gerber offers both fine-edge
and partially serrated-edge blade
options. The handle has glass-filled
nylon (GFN) scales for durability and
a two-position pocket clip made of
heavy wire that is easy to clip onto
your clothing. The blade has an ambi-
dextrous thumb stud for easy assisted
opening. The US-ASSIST 420HCs
overall length is 7.2 inches.
The Kershaw Leeks slim, stain-
MRSP less steel handle and 3-inch,
razor-sharp blade make it a favor-
$99
ite for everyday carry.
URL (Photo: Kershaw)
www.GerberGear.com
MRSP
$97.50
URL
www.SwissArmy.com
ONTARIO
KNIVES
RAT 1A BP
OVERVIEW
The RAT 1A BP is the folder counterpart
to Ontarios fixed-blade RAT 3. It has
OKC's patent-pending Tactical Assisted
Opening (T.A.O.) thumb stud for easy
one-handed opening. The knifes design
is both aggressive and practical, and
its 8.5-inch overall length makes it a
good choice for both everyday chores
and emergency situations. The 3.5- The Victorinox Ranger Grip 57
inch AUS-8 stainless steel blade has has 13 tools packed into a handy,
pocket-sized package.
a smooth-cutting blade shape that
(Photo: Wikimedia.org)
will handle most tasks you throw at
it. The textured G10 scales surround a
frame that includes a liner lock to keep
the blade secure when in the open
position and a lock release to keep
the knife from opening accidentally. A
four-position pocket clip rounds out
this well-designed pocket folder.
MRSP
$81.95
URL
www.OntarioKnife.com
Ruger American
Rimfire Target Rifle
Specifications
Caliber: .22 Long Rifle, .22 Long, .22 Short
Barrel length: 18 inches
Twist: 1:16 inches RH (six grooves)
Overall length: 37 inches
Stock: Black laminate
Length of pull: 13.75 inches
Capacity: 10
Weight: 6.7 pounds
MSRP
$499
Marksman Adjustable Trigger that the 10/22 does not offer. The Ruger American Rimfire
Target is a very different offering than its semiautomatic brother, making it a true
apples-to-oranges comparison.
KEY FEATURES
The Ruger American Rimfire Target is equipped with a .860-inch-diameter, cold-
forged barrel with a x28 threaded end. It is free floated to prevent any disruption in the elements and works well with a Harris
the barrels harmonics and, at 18 inches long, it is long enough to allow the gunpowder bipod for bench shooting, because the
to fully burn before the projectile leaves the barrel; this will maximize the velocity of forend is contoured for accepting one. On
the ammunition used. the opposite end, the stock has a gener-
Its trigger breaks between 3 and 5 pounds and becomes noticeably cleaner and ous rubber recoil pad capable of absorbing
smoother as it is worked in with use. This trigger is far from those found on similarly the force of larger calibers. Nevertheless, it
priced rifles and more like those on pricier target firearms. The safety protrusion on the is used more for locking the rifle into place
front of the trigger is reminiscent of Glock triggers, but it has far less travel before it in the shooters shoulder pocket.
breaks. If the user wants to increase or decrease the trigger pull, all that is necessary is to
adjust a small screw at the front of the trigger face. BOLT-ACTION TRAINING
The Ruger American Rimfire Target stock features the same laminated wood found on Every round counts, and every round
its bigger brothers, such as the Gunsite Scout and Guide Gun. This stock is unaffected by has your life attached to it. Its easy to
turn gunpowder into noise with a semiauto, and I wont deny that rapid fire from that
action or full-auto isnt fun. However, because every round countsespecially in a survival
or extended living experience in the outdoorsa bolt-action rifle forces the shooter to
slow down and aim. Any trigger-happy person can sit behind a rifle and spray, but not
everyone can learn the patience and skill to stack rounds on top of rounds on a single
target or learn how rounds are affected by distance, wind and other environmental condi-
tions. It is sad that the marksmen of yesteryearthose from Bradford Angiers timeare
few and far between, unlike the Internet spray-and-pray range monkeys of today.
The Ruger American Rimfire Target is an excellent gun for working on deliberate accu-
racy. It teaches the user to prepare each shot with correct body position, breathing, sight
picture, trigger control and discipline. This rifle reminds us what it takes to be accurate,
and we can apply the lessons learned on it to our other firearms platforms. We can also
use it for what it is: an accurate range or varmint .22 rifle. With larger-caliber ammuni-
tion prices showing very little downward movement, the .22 rifle is the one we will need
CCI AMMUNITION
(800) 379-1732
WWW.CCI-AMMUNITION.COM
SOURCE
J RUGER FIREARMS
(336) 949-5200
ASG-1706-Tormach 3/3/17 8:46 AM Page 1
WWW.RUGER-FIREARMS.COM
To test the limits of the rifle equipped with that suppressor, various
ammunition with velocities of 1,200 to 1850 fps were used. The ammuni-
tion with the highest velocity created a distinct crack! similar to a cap gun
or primer exploding; but it didnt bother our ears. Lower velocities were
noticeably quieter and similar to a hand clap. We didnt have any subsonic
ammunition that day (which would have been ideal), but I was assured by
the YHM crew that using it in conjunction with the Stinger is even quieter. x CNC for any
It is notable that the rifle performed slightly better with the suppressor Size Shop,
than without it. Located
All in all, the shooters who had a chance to use this rifle found it incredibly Anywhere
funand challengingto shoot. Instead of focusing on speed shooting or
sloppy plinking, sitting or sprawling out behind the little, scoped .22 forced x Machine
shooters to take more-careful aim. Each shooter who tried it remarked how
Parts from
enjoyable it was to use.
Aluminum,
In an age when bigger is often associated with better, a little .22 rifle
can still hold its own. There is no doubt that this rifle can provide hours of
and Steel
fun at the range, put meat on the table or clear out a field of varmints.
The Ruger American is an excellent rifle that packs a lot of performance x Precision
into a budget package. It is well made, respectfully accurate and easy to Manufacturing
CNC Mill
use for shooters of all sizes. Perhaps the only downside is its weightwhich, in Your Garage Starting at:
if accepted as a trade-off for accuracy and stability in a target rifle, isnt
an issue at all. It is slightly heavier than its brother, the 10/22, but not an
impossible burden to carry around the woods.
x 120 VAC- $4950
Plug It In
This rifle isnt the rifle you will shoot off hand for extended sessions; it is Anywhere
the rifle that will deliver repeatable accuracy, shot after shot, when every
shot matters.
Whether that is on the firing line or out in a survival situation that
Bradford Angier envisioned, this rifle is an excellent choice for the
TORMACH.COM
modern American.
1. BUSHCRAFT
Mors Kochanski
The name, Mors, is synonymous with
bushcraft, and he is considered one of the
driving forces behind the do more with
less movement. Mors is a boreal forest
expert, and his book primarily focuses on
the ora and fauna found in that region.
Mors, a college professor, delivers infor-
mation about proper blade use, working Ray Mears is not voice, but there is an undoubtedly authoritative tone to it. It is a book written after years of
only a highly skilled
with natural materials and travel through bushcrafter, he is
outdoor education experience and is meant to help the reader become more comfortable
the forest. For example, he describes using also an accom- living with the wilderness instead of ghting to survive in it. It is an excellent, no-pressure,
plished photogra-
willows to create baskets, horse hoof pher. Many of his informative book about traditional skills.
fungus for coal extenders and birch for photos appear in his 304 pages
latest book, Out on
everything from containers to re starting. the Land. Publisher: Lone Pine; new edition (February 25, 2016)
Bushcraft is written in a polite Canadian ISBN: 978-1772130072
MSRP: $18.95
2. DEEP SURVIVAL:
WHO LIVES, WHO DIES AND WHY?
Laurence Gonzales
This book covers in depth what many survival manuals skirt: survival psychology. Instead
of being written like a manual, it provides lessons from actual survival situations that were
paid for in blood. The author uses these, sometimes tragic, tales to explain the nuances of
survival willpower, positive mental attitude, and ght, ight and freeze responses.
Youll realize how easily the stories and anecdotes are remembered as Gonzales blends
scientic research with commentary about SCUBA divers, mountain climbers, ghter pilots
and children lost in the woods. Deep Survival will teach you the critical characteristics of the
survivor and how they are sometimes found deep in our mind and obvious in our actions.
336 pages
Publisher: W. W. Norton & Company; first edition (January 10, 2017)
ISBN: 978-0393353716
MSRP: $16.95
CREATE land. Nestor regularly runs knife-only courses in the Arizona desert, and even though he
presents some information about this particular climate in this book, there are far more
YOUR OWN
universal concepts applicable to any area of operation.
The Modern Hunter-Gatherer is written in an easy-to-read format, with excellent historical
background facts presented, along with skills, in a seamless style.
NOTEBOOK 80 pages
Publisher: Diamond Creek Press; first edition (September 16, 2009)
ISBN: 978-0971381131
MSRP: $19.95
There is an old saying, The faintest ink is better than the
strongest memory.
Our brain can play tricks on us, and unless you are one of the 7. 98.6 DEGREES:
extreme minority of people who have a photographic memory, THE ART OF KEEPING YOUR ASS ALIVE
you wont recall everything you learn as a student of the outdoors. Cody Lundin
Think about it: How many knots are there? Edible plants? The title of this book is also the central focus of it. Cody Lundin, one half of the
What are the best woods for friction res? What gear is carried in original Dual Survivor casting, is a primitive skills instructor known for his barefoot
tropical weather? Winter? tendencies. If you can see past his shoeless preference, you will find 98.6 Degrees to be
It is important, then, to create a journal of your studies and a book grounded in solid skills and practical kit.
experiences, and you should have a eld notebook to document Lundin has an interesting and entertaining presentation in his book that is far from
what you learn so you can revisit it later. the forced drama of Dual Survival. Lundin is comical in his delivery, but he doesnt make
When you look at all the survival manuals available, the idea light of serious consequences.
of creating your own journal may seem daunting. You have to This book is a great suggested read for someone who should learn about survival skills
remember that the skills and knowledge of an outdoor authority but is reluctant to. 98.6 Degrees engages the reader in a fun way, and the combination
did not come to them in a single day. Writing down your experi- of color photos and comic drawings helps illustrate the points he writes about. Readers
ences in the outdoors is a good habit. When you learn a new camp familiar with Dual Survivor will be impressed with the depth of knowledge Lundin
recipe from someone in your party, put it into your book. When presents using more gear than he has used on television.
a friend recommends a website, go there, and copy down some Lundin was featured prominently in the 1990s in American Survival Guide and has
information (with credit to the source). When you encounter been an outdoors educator for decades.
failure or hardship, write about it and how you overcame it, or plan 216 pages
to, for the next time it comes up. Anytime you have a lightbulb Publisher: Gibbs Smith; reprint edition (June 23, 2003)
moment, make sure you record it somewhere. ISBN: 978-1586852344
Keep a small notepad with you (I prefer Rite-In-the-Rain but MSRP: $16.99
have a stack of all sorts on my desk from over the years), and
transfer your notes to your computer. Use technology to your
benet: Take advantage of that camera on your phone. We think 8. MOUNTAINEERING:
in pictures, and a good photo (free of hard shadows, distractions THE FREEDOM OF THE HILLS
and color-correct) will help you recall what you write about. In Graydon and Hanson, editors
time, you will have a lengthy journal to fall back on when your You dont have to be a climber to appreciate this book, but if you are, this is the bible
mind starts to play tricks on you. for high-country travel.
All the survival books and articles you read will describe multiple Mountaineering: The Freedom of the Hills is loaded with information about travel
ways of accomplishing tasks. There is no one way to do it. Creating through mountainous terrain and climbing techniques. Ascending and descending tech-
a journal is an equally important skill, and the most important niques, self-rescue rope techniques, specialized climbing knots, understanding weather
way to construct one is the way that works best for you. patterns and backcountry medicine are some of the topics highlighted in this book.
Because this book is based on rock climbing, mountaineering and expedition travel
9. WILDWOOD WISDOM
Ellsworth Jaeger
There arent many books that rival this one. Ellsworth Jaeger was an author who respected
both buckskin frontiersmen and Native Americans.
Wildwood Wisdom, published in 1945, presents all the frontier skills either group would
need to survive extended stays in the outdoors. These include how to make camp furniture,
create moccasins, build shelters from available resources, camp kitchen tools and so much
more. This is the book for the person who sits around the re and needs a carving project or
for anyone who wants to learn about classic wilderness living in America from the 1800s.
Jaeger, a faculty member of the Bualo Museum of Science, didnt seek to build an army
of followers based on native awareness or become a spiritual leader of primitive skills
practitioners (unlike some instructors of recent years who have been elevated to this
Even if you arent a climber, there is a
level). He wrote a book with solid historical skills that will remind you of crafts you probably wealth of information in Mountaineering:
made at summer camp. If youre looking for primitive skills without hype, this is your book. The Freedom of the Hills about backcountry
travel and how to manipulate ropes and
520 pages rigging. If you plan on spending any time in
Publisher: Shelter Publications the mountains, you need to read this.
ISBN: 978-0-936070-12-4
MSRP: $17.95
WILL SOUND ISBN: Not available. To purchase, mail a $15 check to: US RSOG, 4600 North Hardesty,
Kansas City, MO 64117
FAMILIAR ...
11. THE HERB BOOK
10. SIX WAYS IN & John Lust
TWELVE WAYS OUT When I attended an advanced edible and medicinal plant course taught by my mentor,
George W. Jasper Marty Simon, this was one of the books he carried with him in his shoulder bag. This book
This book cant be found in stores; the provides instructions about how to make tinctures, salves, teas and other concoctions with
only way youll acquire it is by sending a what nature provides.
check through snail mail. Its one skill to identify plants; it is another to know what to do with them. This book is a
When you receive this manual, youll veritable wild plant encyclopedia. It goes beyond identification and into how to grow your
likely be taken aback at rst by the lack of own herbs at home. It also includes a great section about plant terminology and how to
ne nish and how the pages are bound classify different types.
together with metal fasteners. However, The Herb Book in my library is an older copy. It has been reprinted since I bought it. Never-
when you read through it, youll realize theless, regardless of the edition you end up with, rest assured that the knowledge contained
that the skills are unapologetic and inside is sound. (Because the book has been around for quite some time, you might be able to
unconventional. They are designed to get find an inexpensive used copy.)
660 pages
Publisher: Dover Cookbooks
ISBN: 978-0553172737
MSRP: $19.95
12. BUSHCRAFT
Roger Graves
Written by Roger Graves, the leader of the Australian Jungle Research Detachment to the Far
East American Air Force, Bushcraft is an excellent guide to using natural resources for all aspects
of survival and camping.
Left: If youre
looking for a veritable
encyclopedia of how
to use edible and
medicinal plants, The
Herb Book is what
youve been looking
for. Pictured is Kevin
Estela's copy, which
was found years ago
for a few dollars.
CASH
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Copyright 2017 Mountain House, a division of
OFD Foods, LLC
Fish baskets, crossbow traps, insulated Survival Guide, by John Lofty Wiseman; and Shelters, Shacks and Shanties, by D.C. Beard.
wall construction, thatching, vehicle There are also many fiction books that will complement your survival library: Last
recovery with natural anchorsall of the Breed, by Louis LAmour; Hatchet, by Gary Paulsen; and One Second After,
of this is included in a book that by William Forstchen.
views bushcraft through a noticeable As you have probably already surmised, there are simply too many books to include
military lens, rather than from the per- in such an abbreviated list. But over time, as you read and collect more, youll create
spective of civilian authors. Many of your own survival library for reference purposes.
its illustrations are drawings, but the
reader should have no trouble tracking
the concepts they represent.
This book will surprise you with the
level of depth it takes in its study of the
natural world and how the outdoorsman
can survive in it. Graves explains how to
navigate with the stars, process plants
into cordage, read tracks and much more.
If you are an aspiring bushcrafter, make
sure to add this one to your collection,
and youll be able to do more with less.
352 pages
Publisher: Skyhorse Publishing; first
edition (March 1, 2013)
ISBN: 978-1620873618
MSRP: $16.95
INDEPENDENCE
BY JIM COBB
A
s schools close for summer longer days trigger, its a good time to make
break and the masses head sure you have the right gear to get through a
in all directions to their vaca- variety of emergencies.
tion spots, others have their This months gear guide covers a wide
focus on the less-enjoyable swath of necessities and solutions that will
possibilities summer brings. help you round out your kit and your skills.
Hurricane season is in full stride, and other And, with most of them costing less than
weather extremes are a distinct and dis- $50, youll still have plenty of cash left over
ruptive possibility. And, with the anti-social for that weekend getaway to see your
irritability that higher temperatures and in-laws.
MSRP
$84.95
URL
www.GSIOutdoors.com
AS FAR AS
WE HAVE
Below: A vest HISTORICAL
produced at the
factory of Colom-
bian businessman
RECORDS, THERE
Miguel Caballero.
The company is now
IS EVIDENCE OF
also working on a
line of bullet- and PEOPLE TRYING
TO USE ARMOR.
stab-proof wear
for children that is
intended for sale in
the United States.
AS FAR AS
WE HAVE
HISTORICAL
RECORDS, THERE
IS EVIDENCE OF
PEOPLE TRYING
O
TO USE ARMOR.
ne of the more ridiculous
aspects of post-apocalyptic
movies and TV shows is
how individuals are often
suited up in bulky athletic
armor and equipment, including hockey/
football shoulder pads and motocross chest
protectors. Not only would this type of
armor do little to protect the wearer
in a combat situation, it would likely be
cumbersome and uncomfortable, too.
What is meant to look cool on the
screen would actually serve little purpose
in any real-world scenario.
The first thing to understand is that
armor has been used for millennia in
GETTYIMAGES.COM/BY: GUILLERMO LEGARIA
LEGALITIES OF
tion. Armor should be strong enough to
defeat the weapons of the day while being
light enough to provide maneuverability
BODY ARMOR
on the battlefield.
Plate armor remained in use until World
War I, but it was mainly relegated as an
anachronistic element of the cavalry.
Despite rumors that it is not illegal to own ballistic body armor or items such as
In fact, the cuirass, a piece of armor
bulletproof vests, the truth is a bit murky. At the present time, it is legal for most
consisting of breastplate and backplate
people to buy body armor in a face-to-face transaction. No ID or background check is
fastened together, is still used as part of
required, and no special record-keeping is needed. Body armor can also be sold in a
the ceremonial uniform of Great Britains
store, at a gun show or online and shipped in 49 states. At present, only residents of
Household Cavalry, as well as by other
Connecticut are required to make a purchase in a face-to-face transaction.
ceremonial units. However, with the
However, body armor cannot be shipped, taken or otherwise brought outside the
introduction of firearms, breast plates
United States without federal permission.
gradually were seen to have lost their
More importantly, convicted felons surrender their right to own body armor or
effectiveness in battle.
even possess it (18 U.S.C. 931)unless their employer requires it and they get
written permission to do so. Retailers are not currently liable for what happens to
body armor after it is sold.
Above: A U.S. Marine Corps corporal shows the E-SAPI plate that successfully stopped a bullet in
combat when he was hit. (Photo: Lance Corporal Erik Villagran, U.S. Marine Corps)
armor, could only be made by a specialist like Left: This homemade metal breast plate is modeled after a medieval cui-
rass and, while heavy, has been proofed (that is, it can stop a small-caliber
a blacksmith, said Aldrete. In the ancient
round). Such impacts could still cause physical harm, including bruised
world, most women could weave cloth. and broken bones, to the wearer. (Photo: Peter Suciu)
BRAIN
BUCKET:
Above: The Russian Sphere1 helmet was an attempt to make a truly
bulletproof helmet. It consists of plates of titanium that are supported
within a cloth outer shell, which also serves as a liner. It is effective
PROTECT YOUR
against most small arms, but due to the weight, it can only be worn for
short periods of time. (Photo: Peter Suciu)
HEAD
One facet of body armor that is often overlooked, especially in movies and video
games, is any form of appropriate head protection. Soldiers wear helmets in
combat, because a head injury of any kind can be an instant game-over situation.
Helmets have been worn on the battlefield since antiquity. There have been argu-
ments that combat helmets only really returned to the front lines during World War I.
An often-repeated story tells of a French general who watched as a soldiers
life was saved because the soldier tucked a soup bowl under his kepi. That story
is almost certainly pure fictionnot just because even the French wouldnt have
soup bowls or soup at the front lines, but rather because head injuries were such a
concern that a skull cap was introduced to provide some protection.
Above: A Russian K6 assault bulletproof helmet with face shield
for counterterror troops. This helmet can reportedly stop small-arms As expected, the skull cap was uncomfortable and actually did little to protect
fire from handguns and even submachine gunsbut it weighs about
15 pounds and is thus uncomfortable. It cant be worn for extended wearers, even from low-velocity (i.e., artillery) impacts. Soon, more-robust helmets
periods. (Photo: Peter Suciu) were introduced, including the British MKI Tommy helmet and the now some-
what infamous German Model 1916. Steel helmets evolved after the war, but by
the 1980s, steel gave way to modern ballistic materials such as Kevlar.
Surplus helmets from the U.S. military, as well as helmets from practically every
other nation (even Russia and China), can be bought online. A helmet is something
that is probably far easier to buy as a surplus item than to try to make.
As has been noted in the recent studies of concussions and other head trauma,
a helmet has to do more than stop a blow to the headit needs to disperse any
kinetic energy to reduce the chances of serious brain injury. It is called a brain
bucket for good reason!
As with athletic helmets, those designed for combat should be considered
single-damage items, meaning that if the helmet does take a serious blow, its
structural integrity could be compromised.
Above: This French skull cap was introduced in 1915 as a stopgap The other thing to keep in mind is that in many cases, military helmets have
means to reduce head injuries during World War I until a new combat been designed to be worn for extended periods of time with minimal discomfort. A
helmet could be developed. It was worn under the infantrymans kepi
and proved to be ineffective. It was too thin to provide much protection helmet that isnt comfortable is taken o and then, it does no good!
and was extremely uncomfortable. This is one of only a handful of
known examples. It resides in the collection of the Imperial War Museum
in London. (Photo: Peter Suciu)
GETTYIMAGES.COM/BY: DIMID_86
armor, but few of these would be ideal ARMOR MUST BE STRONG ENOUGH
for daily wearand this would include
chainmail. TO DEFEAT THE WEAPONS OF THE
This would depend on the type of DAY WHILE BEING LIGHT ENOUGH
situations that would be encountered,
explained a spokesperson from Medieval
TO PROVIDE MANEUVERABILITY ON
Armour, a maker of authentic chainmail THE BATTLEFIELD. S O U R C E S
and plate armor using techniques similar
to those used centuries ago. Chainmail Creations, crafts serious-looking armor that isnt meant to be a costume. Gregory S. Aldrete,
Frankenthal Professor
would prevent slashes and ease blunt force I dont work with foam or other lightweight, cosplay-safe materials, he explained. of History and
trauma a bit, but it would not protect the There are steel plates bolted on, and while the surrounding vest is just padded cushion, the Humanistic Studies
wearer from being stabbed with a thin plates will stop bullets. It weighs about 7 pounds. University of
Wisconsin-Green Bay
blade or stop an arrow. Protection with this Hertell said he opts for steel, because lead loses to steel. www.UWGB.edu/AldreteG
would be enhanced by wearing a gambeson Kevlar gets expensive, and I like to use cheaper materials, he added. I like to use what is
Basement Dweller
[a padded defensive jacket] underneath. at hand and what would be left at the end of the world.
Creations
More importantly, chainmail tends to Of course, ballistic armor is fairly aordable already and is something that can be readily B_D_Creations@yahoo.com
be quite heavynormally weighing more found at surplus stores and for sale online. In the end, it might be best to have a mix of
Medieval Armour
than 30 pounds per piecealthough, armors, because, just as you dont want to bring a knife to a gunfight, dierent types of (812) 506-1989
compared to plate armor, it is on the armor serve dierent purposes. www.MedievalArmour.com
lighter side of homemade armor. One advantage that commercially available armor can have over anything of the DIY
Chris Hertell, owner of Basement Dweller variety is that it is generally rated to let you know the level of protection it can provide.
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THE TOP 10 HAND TOOLS TO
HAVE ON HAND WHEN THE
POWER GOES OUT
BY DANA BENNER
W
e live in a world The camp axe powers our homes and all the devices we use every day. It makes our industry roll.
(top) and the
governed by authors old, full- Just think about how much we rely upon electricity. Now, think about what would
power. Our daily sized axe can do happen if that energy source were gone. What would we do? How would we live our
a lot of the same
lives are controlled tasks. However, lives? Could we live our lives?
by energy sources, each has its own People go crazy any time their supply of electricity is disrupted. Even in a short-term
benefits.
particularly electricity. We cant go a day power outage, store shelves are stripped bare, including things that arent needed. Without
without being impacted by electricity. It electricity, there would be no industry, no manufacturing, transportation, communication,
food or medical supplies as we know them today.
Here, in the Northeast, we often get severe ice storms that bring down trees and wires,
knocking out power for days or even weeks at a time. Power will eventually come back
on, we believe, but when that will happen is anyones guess.
What would happen if we suffered from a large EMP (electro-magnetic pulse)? It
could happen. The sun is just a big ball of nuclear energy, and it sends out EMPs all
the time. Power could be lost indefinitelyand then, forget about the Internet, cell
phones and GPS.
I know some of you are thinking, I have a generator, so I dont need to worry about this.
That is fine. I have a couple generators myself, but what happens when you run out of
fuel? It will happen. What will you do then? Gas station pumps run on electricity. No elec-
tricity, no fuel; and it wont take long for the tanks to be siphoned dry by manual means.
People who live off the grid and rely upon solar and wind to power their limited electrical
devices will have it a little better. But lets face it: The majority of the world is not prepared
to live an extended period without electricity. Even those who are off the grid need to
purchase things from the outside world from time to time, and if there is no power, there are
no goods to purchase. How would we get the things we needor think we need?
The answer to that question is simply that we would need to fix things ourselves and
make the items we need. Humans thrived long before there was electricity and the many
things it powers. We canand willdo it again.
What follows is a list of what I consider to be the top 10 hand tools we all should have on
hand. When I say, hand tools, Im talking about tools that are not powered by electricity.
THE MAJORITY
OF THE WORLD IS
NOT PREPARED TO
LIVE AN EXTENDED
PERIOD WITHOUT
ELECTRICITY.
Left: A SunJack
solar charger is
shown topping off a
Rubicon headlamp
and a flashlight.
Right: A ratcheting
socket wrench and a
full selection of sockets
should always be on
hand.
Far right: Shovels of all types are good to have on hand, but the key version is the
spade. Its pointed blade is ideal for digging in most types of soil, and it can cut through
roots or construction debris.
THERE WAS ELECTRICITY AND THE be removed with very little effort. What you should
look for (and stay away from) are tools with broken
MANY THINGS IT POWERS. WE CAN handles or damage to parts not worth repairing.
AND WILLDO IT AGAIN.
DELAYED EFFECT OF
SERIOUS BRAIN TRAUMA
What is scary about TBI is that death
might occur without an indication
that a serious brain injury has been
sustained. There have been numerous
incidents when an athlete sustained
a seemingly minor head injury early in
the week but died on the field later in
the week after sustaining a subsequent,
Extreme sports
even relatively minor, blow. such as skate-
boarding, for
In 2013, 16-year-old football player Dodi which athletes
Soza of Downey, California, suffered a con- push the bound-
aries of gravity,
cussion in practice two days before a game have their share
during which he was struck in the head, of head injuries.
RETURNING
TO ACTIVITY
Returning to contact too soon, while still experiencing
headaches and other symptoms, can be deadly. This is no
time for self-negotiating to gamble with your life. The risk of
second impact syndrome is serious. This might occur when
the brain sustains another injury before it has fully recovered
from the initial blow. This can even happen weeks after the first chin strap should always be fastened. When everything is in place, carefully shake
concussion was suffered. the helmet forward and backward and then try to rotate it. There should be minimal
At no time should there be a return to activity if any symptoms to no movement.
are still present. Once they disappear, the following protocol TBIs occur more frequently than most people realize. Their severity can range from
similar to the one employed by the NFLshould be followed: minor and temporary to life threatening. Appreciating the need for protection, along
with early identification, treatment and knowing when to safely return to activity, can all
Rest and recovery: This will allow for the resolution of make a huge difference in your well-being.
symptoms. Avoid watching TV, video games, social media or
doing computer work.
TACTICAL PEN, IS comes from its construction: an all-metal body with flat or pointed ends designed for
striking or pressure point manipulation so you can use it as a defensive tool. At a mini-
A GREAT OPTION. mum, it should have an all-metal body with a flat end to rest your thumb on to prevent
Because it
helps focus the
force of your
strike, any of
the strike points
you might have
TEMPLE learned in mar-
EYES tial arts training
will be effective
EARS
NOSE when using a
tactical pen.
BACK OF NECK
THROAT
STERNUM
ARMPIT
RIBS
ELBOW
SOLAR PLEXIS
BACK OF HAND
KNUCKLES
THIGH
KNEE
SHINS
TOP OF FOOT
TACTICAL PEN
stout construction,
has a removable
cap and is 5.9
inches long.
FEATURES
What to look for:
Strong body; aluminum, titanium or steel
A flat end to safely rest the thumb on
A narrower end for striking and applying pressure
Longer than the width of your hand
A textured or grooved surface
What to avoid:
Overly tactical-looking
Industrial look with machined-in details
Extremely pointed ends that make it look like a weapon
Having to manipulate it to reveal the striking point
So heavy that you wind up not carrying it
TACTICAL PENS
ARE, FIRST AND
FOREMOST,
WRITING
IMPLEMENTS
YOU CAN USE
IN YOUR DAILY
ACTIVITIES.
the pen from slipping in your hand, along
with a pointed/rounded end for use as a
striking tool. It should be long enough so
that both ends extend half an inch to an
inch past the edge of your hand when it is
closed around the pen.
THREE CATEGORIES
As each tactical pen from the various
manufacturers arrived on my doorstep,
I was impressed with the quality and
design effort it embodied. None of them
were cheap or shoddy, and they all did
what they said they would do.
The actual daily use I put each of them
through was where my favorites started
to rise above the rest of the pack. I used
them as writing implements and defen-
sive tools, and I even used them for tasks
COVERT USE
DEFENSIVE
The covert/office-friendly category is for tactical pens that dont look very tactical.
Instead, they look like something you could find at any office supply store. You can use
them in any professional office, and they wont catch anyones eye as being out of
TECHNIQUES
place. This featureinconspicuousnessis something any survivalist or prepper should
keep in mind whenever picking a tool or technique for daily use around others.
These pens are not designed as tactical pens but do have the required features of a
The tactical pen is used in two ways: tactical pen, as already discussed.
first, to apply pressure to pressure points
and hard surfaces to cause pain or reduce FIELD USE
the abilities of your attacker. Second, to The field use category is for pens that look most like what you would expect from
execute deep tissue strikes that cause pain a tool called a tactical pen. This takes up the biggest portion of the market. They
and injury to muscle and internal organs. generally only come in flat black or dark gray, have all-metal bodies, and the accompa-
Schrades
Tactical Sur-
vival Pen has a
glass-breaker,
ferro rod and
striker, and a
whistle built
into its 5.9-
inch length.
SURVIVALIST
OR PREPPER
SHOULD KEEP IN
MIND WHENEVER
PICKING A TOOL
OR TECHNIQUE
FOR DAILY USE
AROUND OTHERS.
B O T T L E
survival gear built into it. The multipurpose
pen is more like a pen/multi-tool/defensive
weapon hybrid, so it is a great general-use,
multi-tasking toolthe kind of item we all
like to have in our gear collection.
Order at: WWW.SMARTBOTTLEINC.COM
Phone: 828-658-0912 KRW1161
Right: A few
companies,
such as Tuff
Writer, make
both pen and
pencil versions
of tactical pens.
This makes them
easy to use every
day, especially THE TACTICAL ASPECT COMES
in an office
environment. FROM ITS CONSTRUCTION: AN
ALL-METAL BODY WITH FLAT OR
POINTED ENDS DESIGNED FOR
STRIKING OR PRESSURE POINT
MANIPULATION SO YOU CAN USE IT
AS A DEFENSIVE TOOL.
Left: Other
models,
although not as
sophisticated as
Schrades sur-
vival pen, come
with a variety of
extra features.
This model from
UnderControl
Tactical.com has
a bright LED light
that can tem-
porarily blind
an opponent at
night.
Twice The
Adventure, One
Low Price
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BIG ONLY $44.95
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Survival Guide and Modern
Pioneer and save 72% on the
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THE OUTDOORSMANS
FIRST LINE OF DEFENSE
BY REUBEN BOLIEU
GETTYIMAGES.COM BY: DAWID JEDRZEJEWSKI / EYEEM
Above: On an expedition to Mount Roraima in Venezuela, Bolieu was covered up for protection
from the bugs and the sun for most of the hike.
Left: On a kayaking camp trip, the author wore his bandana bonnet style to block against
the harsh Arizona sun.
Above: A simple
cotton bandana is
the multi-tool of a
campers wardrobe.
The author often
uses his bandana
to grab hot handles
while cooking in
camp.
KEEP
tube hat is a beanie
and scarf in one.
The face can be cov-
ered or uncovered
easily to regulate
YOUR
heat.
HEAD
COVERED
For decades, we have been told that
YOUR CLOTHING IS YOUR FIRST
most body heat is lost through the LINE OF DEFENSE AGAINST THE
head and neck. More-recent studies
have shown this not to be true
ELEMENTS. LAYERING CLOTHING
assuming you wear a similar level of AND USING ACCESSORIES SUCH AS
weather protection on your head as SCARVES, BANDANAS AND GLOVES
you do on the rest of your body. Cov-
ering your head, neck and hands will CAN HELP MAKE ALL THE DIFFERENCE
keep your core closer to a cozy 98.6 IN PROTECTING YOU FROM SAND,
degrees (F) than if you dont.
When youre exposed to the sun, a COLD, WIND AND THE SUN.
wide-brimmed hat is best for shading
your eyes, head and neck. A hat has
many advantages in the outdoors,
and the variety of materials and styles
available today makes finding the
right one easier than ever. A beanie
in the winter, a scarf or kerchief, and
a brimmed hat or baseball cap will
do the body wonders and keep you
protected from the sun.
DARK OR LIGHT?
There is an ongoing debate as to which
color is best for the outdoors. Forget for
a minute that bright, colorful clothing is
better for a lost hiker situation and helps
in signaling. If I had to choose between
light colorstan, white or the likeor dark
colors, Id gladly choose dark. The sun
is powerful, and a person can easily get
sunburned through a white or tan shirt,
especially if its made of thin materials.
However, darker colors wont allow as
much of the dangerous UV rays through. In the jungle,
a hat that cools
We have been taught that dark objects and shades is a
absorb more heat than light ones. That necessity. This hat
was made out of
might be, but darker colors dont change leaves by one of the
Aetas people in the
the ambient temperature: Hot will still be
Philippines during a
hot. The long-sleeved, dark-colored shirt survival class.
!
!
!
LEARN ONLINE
Right: Making a
fire in the snow is
difficult enough,
but with the wind
and cold nipping
away, proper dress
makes all the
difference.
Left: Caught in a
vicious blizzard in the
Northeast, Bolieu uses
a neck gaiter to cover
his face and a shell
jacket to help fend off
the weather.
IF I HAD TO CHOOSE BETWEEN
LIGHT COLORSTAN, WHITE OR T P S A R M S
TA C T I C A L PA R T S
THE LIKEOR DARK COLORS, S U P P LY & A R M S
Designed for those who require safety and reliability of a
mil-spec trigger. The pull of the ETG is manufactured to be
sharper and the grittiness and creep of the stock trigger
pull has been removed. The pull weight is not lower than
the M4/M16 minimum weight specification of 5.5 lbs.
Our parts are
proudly made
(320)358-0230 in the USA.
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Possibly the most underrated piece of clothing for the outdoors is a stur-
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OFD Foods, Inc 73
I use light fleece gloves under my leather work gloves. On sharp descents
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in rocky terrain, leather gloves are good for getting a good hand hold,
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as well as for slipping or sliding, butt first, down a very steep rock face.
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Walking through briars in Georgia and Alabama has taught me to wear
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There is no such thing as bad weather, just bad clothing and gear. Vista Outdoor 91
Not every outdoor trip is a survival situation, but it could become one. World Gone Silent 75
Taking a backpack full of clothing for a day hike probably wont happen,
but some accessories, such as a hat, bandana and gloves, can really help
The Advertiser Index is provided as a service to American Survival Guide readers.
when a casual outdoor encounter becomes a fight for survival. American Survival Guide is not responsible for omissions or typographical errors on names or page numbers..
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