FROM THE EDITORS OF GUN WORLD

ISSUE 3 / SPRING 2013

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DISPLAY UNTIL: 3/26/13

It is not
because
things are
difficult that
we do not
dare; it is
because we
do not dare
that they
are difficult.
-Lucius Annaeus Seneca
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BE ON THE LOOKOUT FOR THESE
EDITORS CHOICE ITEMS IN OUR
BUYERS GUIDE SECTIONS ...
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5
WINTER
PREPAREDNESS
12 INTRODUCTION
14 OUTSMART OLD MAN WINTER
If youre into winter outdoor activities, this is one
story you must read.
By Garrett Kim
28 WINTER WIVES TALES
Youve heard the cold-weather survival tales.
Now find out the truth.
By Torrey Kim
33 TOP 10 WINTER SURVIVAL ITEMS
A top 10 list of anything is always cool.
When it can save your life, its even better.
By Torrey Kim
42 WHITE WAVE
Gregg Swanson encountered a climbers worst
nightmare on Mt. Rainier.
By Gregg Swanson
54 SURVIVING A SURVIVAL CAMP
Mix in one non-outdoorsy gal with a Virginia
survival camp, and youve got the recipe for
one dynamic main course.
By Erin Hatfield
GENERAL
PREPAREDNESS
63 INTRODUCTION
64 ANYTHING BUT MUNDANE
What can you do with a water bottle, a plastic
bag, rope and a tarp? A lot more than you may
have ever realized.
By Erin Hatfield
68 ON-THE-GO MEDICAL CARE
Honey can do double-duty as an anti-bacterial.
Find out other medical tips in this quick hitting
guide to first aid.
By Torrey Kim
70 FAMILY SURVIVAL CHECKLIST
Hurricane Sandy is a sad reminder of the chaos
nature can create. This 14-day plan will have
you ready for anything that comes your way.
By Sean Cooper
72 PET PREPPERS
Dogs and cats need a survival plan, too.
By Wendy Wilson
76 CALL ME MAYBE
In addition to everything else smartphones
can do, add saving your life to the list.
By Erin Hatfield
78 HOUSE WARMING
When there is no power, crank up these
creative ideas to generate heat for your
household.
By Torrey Kim
82 ROAD KITS
Disasters are unpredictable. Take that advantage
away by stocking your car with these essential items.
By Paul Hantke
URBAN
PREPAREDNESS
83 INTRODUCTION
84 UNDER FIRE
The danger of wildfire is all too real. These
eight tips will douse the danger fires create.
By Suzanne Leder
88 SURVIVAL GARDEN
Reap the rewards of a winter garden with these
sure-fire methods to produce food for your
family.
By Kristin Webb-Hollering
92 SURVIVAL NUTRITION
Create a long-term plan for your familys needs.
By Kristen Kleist
98 SURVIVE THE CHAOS
Youre in a movie theater. Someone opens fire.
Heres what you do.
By Alon Stivi
104 SINK OR SWIM
Milk jugs, bags and trash may seem unsightly
until you need them to make a floatation device.
By Kristin Webb-Hollering
108 LESSONS LEARNED
You know Dennis Croft from Small Town
Security, but you probably did not know
hes a survivalist.
By Torrey Kim
COLUMNS
FEATURES
WILDERNESS
PREPAREDNESS
118 INTRODUCTION
119 GIVE ME SHELTER
Location, location, location. Thats the No.
1 key to constructing a survival shelter.
Do you know the rest?
By Abe Elias
124 GAME FOR FISH
Multiple ways to land the big one.
By Larry Schwartz
BUYERS GUIDES
60 95 112

22 WINTER GEAR
36 FOOD AND WATER
48 LIGHT SOURCES
60 KNIVES
95 FIREARMS
112 BACKPACKS
6 FIRST WORDS
8 NEWS, NOTES
130 CLOSING WORDS
THE COVER
Photographer: Dave Alan
Model: Neil Melanson
Designer: Eric Knagg

6
FIRST WORDS
TAGGERING ARE
THE NUMBERS. MORE
THAN 100 DEAD. MORE
THAN $20 BILLION IN
DAMAGE. MILLIONS
WITHOUT POWER. SEVENTEEN
STATES IMPACTED. IN THE BEACH
COMMUNITY OF BREEZY POINT,
NEW YORK, MORE THAN 100
HOMES WERE DESTROYED.
The responsibility for
this devastation falls
squarely on Sandys
shoulders. The hurricane
that belted the East Coast
recently is a reminder of
just how ruthless Mother
Nature can be and just
how important it is to be
prepared, regardless of
where you live.
ADVANCED TRAINING
To get you the information so you can ride
out the storm whether its a tornado,
earthquake, flood or some other calamity
well be there for you. The story on page 54
is a perfect example.
Sandys short but destructive life almost
coincided precisely with our own Torrey Kim
and Erin Hatfields journey to the Advanced
Survival Training Camp in Virginia. Of course,
we told them not to make that trek if it wasnt
safe, but the following excerpt from one of
Torreys e-mails exemplifies that dedication:
Erin and I are keeping our eyes on the
road conditions between North Carolina
and Virginia between now and Thursday.
The pair safely
made the journey and par-
ticipated in the camp, just
so youd be armed with
even more knowledge
should you ever have
to go toe-to-toe with
a disaster.
BE READY
Meanwhile, between now and the next
American Survival Guide, enjoy this issue.
Learn as much as you can and prepare as best
as you can, because when Mother Nature
strikes, she swings for the fences. There are
millions of people on the East Coast who can
vouch for that.
Live strong.
The hurricane
that belted the
East Coast
recently is a
reminder of just
how ruthless
Mother Nature
can be
S
ISSUE 3 / SPRING 2013
EDITORIAL
Editor: Doug Jeffrey
Contributing Editor: Torrey Kim
Managing Editor: Jeffrey Rick
Art Director: Eric Knagg
CONTRIBUTORS
Dave Alan, Sean Cooper, Abe Elias, Paul Hantke,
Erin Hatfield, Garrett Kim, Kristen Kleist, Suzanne Leder,
Cody Lundin, Thomas J. Nardi, Ph.D., Larry Schwartz,
Alon Stivi, Gregg Swanson, Kristin Webb-Hollering,
Wendy Wilson
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Riders On
The Storm
By Doug Jeffrey
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Water
Safety
Tips
TIPS, HISTORY, STATS

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HEN YOU THINK ABOUT
DANGEROUS WATERS,
YOU MAY BE PICTURING A
WHITE-WATER RIVER OR AN
EXTREME RIP CURRENT IN THE
OCEANBUT WHAT ABOUT THE
WATER ALL AROUND YOU?
According to the CDC (Centers for Disease
Control and Prevention), about 10 people die
every day from drowning, making it fifth among the
leading causes of unintentional injury deaths in the
United States.
Because most survivalists set up their camps
very close to water sources, its important to know
how to decrease your odds of drowning to help
keep your family safe. Use the following tips to
ensure that youll stay above water if youre near it.
Dont Get A False
Sense Of Security
You may feel like your campsite is your home,
and that a nearby stream wont pose a threat since
everyone feels comfortable around it, but thats
untrue. People can drown in any depth of water,
and the CDC reports that more than half of
drownings among those 15 years and older
occurred in natural water settings. Maintain strong
supervision around any water source.
Take Swimming
Lessons
This one may seem obvious, but study results
have found that the risk of drowning decreases if
someone has taken swimming lessons.
If you arent near a location that offers
formal lessons, be sure to have the best
swimmer in your family
train the others on
how to swim.
W
Survive Around Water
Source: CENTERS FOR DISEASE CONTROL AND PREVENTION (WWW.CDC.GOV/HOMEANDRECREATIONALSAFETY/WATER-SAFETY/WATERINJURIES-FACTSHEET.HTML)
Wear Life
Jackets
You may not think
you need to wear a life
jacket to collect water
from a stream, but if
you or your family
members cant swim,
you should zip up the
life vest. If youre on a
boat, the life jacket is
even more important,
whether you can swim
or not. CDC stats
show that 88% of
those who drowned
due to a boating inci-
dent in 2010 were not
wearing life jackets.
Learn
CPR
The faster you per-
form CPR on a drown-
ing victim, the better
the chance that theyll
survive. Have as many
people as possible in
your group learn CPR.

9
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No. 1: Creating
The Low-Budget
Homestead
WORRY NO MORE. IF YOUVE
EVER THOUGHT ABOUT A
SELF-SUFFICIENT LIFESTYLE ON A
RURAL HOMESTEAD OR SURVIVAL
RETREAT, BUT WERE CONCERNED
YOU DIDNT HAVE THE MONEY OR
SKILLS, READ THIS BOOK.
This is a goldmine or practical steps
and instructions. Among other topics, author
Steven Gregersen hits on the following
topics:
Creative ways to find inexpensive rural
property to buy
10 rules for a self-sufficient garden
Designing the off-grid home so its
warm in winter and cool in summer
The essential tools, vehicles and skills
you need to succeed
No. 2: Makeshift
Workshop Skills
For Survival
And Self-Reliance
PHONES. COMPUTERS. SPACE
TRAVEL. WE LIVE IN A HIGH-TECH
ERA, BUT WE DONT ALWAYS
HAVE TO, ESPECIALLY WHEN IT
COMES TO SELF-SUFFICIENCY.
In this Paladin Press book, James Ballou
presents a make-shifters way of building and
repairing things with only a pile of raw or sal-
vaged materials, your hands and your mind.
The book covers a wide range of unconven-
tional and creative home workshop skills,
including:
Homemade tools
Expedient repairs
Makeshift construction
Useful projects
Plus, Ballou provides extensive instruction
in makeshift metalworking, practical calculat-
ing skills, resourceful salvaging and more.
No. 3: Shoestring
Survivalism: How
To Prepare For Bad
Times On A Budget
LIVING ON A BUDGET? IF SO, THIS
BOOK IS RIGHT UP YOUR ALLEY.
In this 184-page book, Andy James pro-
vides dozens of shoestring survival methods
that cost little and advance your prepared-
ness for any disaster. Youll get:
21 simple, low-cost steps that will dras-
tically improve your chances of surviving any
disaster
Stock cheap, filling foods that will feed
you and your family for 30 days or longer
Acquire free stuff that survivalists never
think of
Find hidden values at familiar stores and
in surprising corners of the Internet
Who said you need a fully stocked cabin
in the mountains to make it through hard
times?
No. 4: Eating On The
Run: Survival Foraging
For Plants, Grasses,
Nuts and Berries
PREPARATION IS A WAY OF LIFE.
You may be covered at home, but what if
you find yourself stranded in the wilderness
and unable to get home for days, weeks or
months? Could you live off the land? With
this book, you could.
There are about 2,000 edible plants, and
these can feed you in the wilderness, even in
winter. You will learn which plants, grasses,
nuts and berries that require the least, if any,
preparation. You will learn how to distinguish
safe plants from toxic varieties and where
abundant supplies are. The 138-page book is
packed with short reads for the various foods
that will keep you alive in a survival situation.
4 Survival Books
WHERE TO BUY THESE BOOKS
PALADIN PRESS
7077 Gunbarrel Tech Center
Boulder, CO 80301
www.paladin-press.com
303-443-7250
Numbers
TOP 5 NATURAL TINDERS ONE
Dead, dry leaves
TWO
Fibrous tree bark
THREE
Dead pine needles
FOUR
Dead,
dry grass
FIVE
Weed
tops

10
"LOOK AROUND, LEAVES ARE
BROWN NOW AND THE SKY IS
A HAZY SHADE OF WINTER.
Do these melancholy lyrics by two
troubadours of the 60s, Simon and Gar-
funkel, speak to you? Perhaps you can
relate to feeling down? Stressed out due
to a power outage or excessive snow,
which is affecting travel in your city?
Craving carbs? Listless and apathetic? Do
you just want to sleep? Maybe hibernate
until the winter is over? It may be that
your body really does want you to do just
that hibernate like some bears do.
You might have more than the winter
doldrums. You might be suffering from
Seasonal Affect Disorder (SAD).
WHAT IT IS
Aptly named, SAD creates various
degrees of depression in those affected by
it. Its hypothesized that the lack of sun-
light may produce a hormonal change in
some people that triggers a hibernation
reflex. Your body demands sleep. You
crave carbs and may even pack on extra
pounds because like bears your body
wants to store fat to last you through the
winter. Fortunately for bears, they can
sleep the winter months away. Unfortu-
nately for us, we have work, school, fami-
lies and many other responsibilities that
do not end because its cold and dark
outside.
Some cases of SAD are treated effec-
tively by switching over to full-spectrum
light bulbs. This type of light therapy
simulates natural light. Increasing Vitamin
D, the "sunshine vitamin," has helped
many who suffer from SAD. Warning:
don't self-diagnosis your vitamin levels.
Have blood work done by your health
care provider to detect low levels of Vita-
min D in your system. Some doctors may
recommend over-the-counter Vitamin D,
while others may determine that you
need prescription-strength vitamin D.
Trust them, not your own judgment.
WHAT ELSE
YOU CAN DO
Your health care provider may also
suggest s short course of antidepressant
medication to get you through the winter.
Consider cognition-behavior ther-
apy (CBT). CBT focuses on how your
thinking can affect your moods and emo-
tions. It has been very effective in helping
those with SAD as well as more serious
depression.
Hit the gym. Even light exercise has
been demonstrated to be effective against
mild depression.
BE POSITIVE
Finally, as you trudge through the
cold, dark snow-filled months of winter,
recall the lyrics of another of Simon and
Garfunkel's song: April, come she will.
Thomas J. Nardi, Ph.D. is the Director of
the LIU Hudson Rockland Graduate Counsel-
ing Programs in Orangeburg and West Point,
New York. Dr. Nardi is a clinical psychologist
and creator of Eclectic Cognitive Behavior
Therapy.
Winter
Survival Tips
Deceptive Killers
Winter storms can range from a moderate
snow over a few hours to a blizzard with blinding,
wind-driven snow that lasts for several days. Many
winter storms are accompanied by dangerously low
temperatures and sometimes by strong winds, icing,
sleet and freezing rain.
One of the primary concerns is the winter
weather's ability to knock out heat, power and
communications services to your home or office,
sometimes for days at a time. Heavy snowfall and
extreme cold can immobilize an entire region.
The National Weather Service refers to winter
storms as the Deceptive Killers because most
deaths are indirectly related to the storm. Instead,
people die in traffic accidents on icy roads and of
hypothermia from prolonged exposure to cold.
Its important to be prepared for winter weather
before it strikes.
Thus, minimize travel, make a family
communications plan, make sure you have an
emergency kit and listen to NOAA Weather Radio.
FEMA
TIPS, HISTORY, STATS
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Wintertime Blues
By Thomas J. Nardi, Ph.D.
Mental
Strength
During
Adversity

11
FLASH FLOODS CAN OCCUR WITHIN A FEW MINUTES
OR HOURS. FLASH FLOODS OFTEN HAVE A DANGEROUS
WALL OF ROARING WATER CARRYING ROCKS, MUD AND
OTHER DEBRIS.
Overland flooding, the most common type of flooding event, typically
occurs when waterways such as rivers or streams overflow their banks
as a result of rainwater or a possible levee breach and cause flooding in
surrounding areas. It can also occur when rainfall or snowmelt exceeds
the capacity of underground pipes, or the capacity of streets and drains
designed to carry flood water away from urban areas.
Know this: Be aware of flood hazards no matter where you live or
work, but especially if you are in low-lying areas, near water, behind a
levee or downstream from a dam. Even very small streams, gullies, creeks,
culverts, dry streambeds or low-lying ground that appear harmless in dry
weather can flood.

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Floods Can Happen In
A Flash 5 Steps To Prepare
Methods Of Preparation
Flood Advice From FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency)
1. Build an emergency kit and make a family communications plan.
2. Avoid building in a floodplain unless you elevate and reinforce
your home.
3. Elevate the furnace, water heater and electric panel in your home
if you live in an area that has a high flood risk.
4. Consider installing "check valves" to prevent flood water from
backing up into the drains of your home.
5. If feasible, construct barriers to stop floodwater from entering
the building and seal walls in basements with waterproofing
compounds.
More Numbers
$5 TO $40
The range in the cost
of survival gear youll find
in the story Top 10
Winter Survival Items
40
The number of survival
items that can be made with
a water bottle, rope, tarp
and plastic bag
3
The number of gallons
of water per day experts
recommend each person
should have
30
The number
of days a person
can survive
without food
78,792
The number of
wildfires in the
U.S. three years ago

12
Wi nter s Fury
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Tips for Winter Preparedness
THERE IS PLEASURE IN THE PATHLESS WOODS
I LOVE NOT MAN THE LESS, BUT NATURE MORE
TO MINGLE WITH THE UNIVERSE, AND FEEL
WHAT I CAN NE'ER EXPRESS, YET CANNOT ALL CONCEAL.
We share Lord Byrons love of nature, but we all know that winter can turn plea-
sure to pain in a heartbeat, which is why we must respect Old Man Winter. For he
hath no pity.
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In This Section
Avalanche Danger
Tips to Survive an Encounter
with a Bear
Cold-Weather Myths
Winter Buyers Guide
A True-Life Survival Story
Survival Tips With Common
Items
Inside a Survival Camp

13

14
OURE A
RISK-TAKER
BY NATURE.
Which means when
the winter snow starts to fall, you
see the steep slopes as the ideal
location to test your skills not as
a potential avalanche.
Or when the temperature
drops a country mile below zero
and when most everyone else is sit-
ting comfortably by the fireplace
you seize the opportunity for some
ice fishing.
Regardless of what your winter
sport of choice is from ice fishing
to hiking to snowmobiling to hunt-
ing to skiing you want to maxi-
mize your sport enjoyment time
rather than having to avoid
avalanches, thin ice and nasty bears.
Keep these expert tips in mind
to avoid injuries, and react quickly if
something bad befalls you.
OUTSMART
OLD MAN
WINTER
By Garrett Kim
How To Avoid an Avalanche,
Survive a Bear Attack and More
Y
Snow sport enthusiasts can stay safe with expert tips on preventing winter dangers.


15
If you are caught in an
avalanche, make like
youre swimming, moving
your arms and legs.
Mark Wienert, Jr., Lifesong
Wilderness Adventures
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WINTER SPORTS
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AVALANCHE DANGER
If youre on a snowy mountain, the number one safety concern is
usually avoiding avalanches, which can be deadly within seconds after
they begin.
The number one action to avoid avalanches is to take a moun-
taineering course that specializes in avalanche education awareness,
says Mark Wienert, Jr., founder and director at Lifesong Wilderness
Adventures, an outdoor wilderness survival school based in North
Bend, Oregon. If you snowmobile in mountain country, avalanche
education is a must.
Once youve been properly trained and youre preparing to head
out to the mountain, make sure you leave a detailed note with a
responsible person letting them know where you're going and when
you will be returning, Wienert says.
In addition, you should avoid venturing into steep snow country
during or after a heavy snowfall, Wienert says. This is when the dan-
ger of avalanche is the highest, he notes.
Wienert also advises mountaineers to look at the mountain land-
scape. Areas without trees or brush may give you advance warning
that the area is prone to avalanches.
Slopes of 35 to 45 degrees are the most prone to avalanche, he
says. Slopes of 25 degrees are also prone to shift. If you are caught
in an avalanche, make like youre swimming, moving your arms and
legs. This helps to keep you on top of the flow and creates airspace
around your head and may help to keep the rest of your body from
being stuck.

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ICY WATER
No matter how thick the ice may
look, you always have a chance of
hitting a thin spot when walking on a
frozen lake and plunging into icy
water is extremely dangerous.
If you fall through the ice, you
should immediately climb out, strip
off your wet clothes and get close to
a fire, advises Cliff Hodges, founder
and lead survival instructor at
Adventure Out, LLC, a California-
based outdoor adventure company.
If dry clothes, blankets, or sleep-
ing bags are available, wrap yourself
in those, he adds.
The key is getting body temper-
ature back up and getting dry, he
says. If you are in a very exposed
area, consider building reflector
walls out of debris and/or tucking
your fire area in to a cave or rocky
area to help insulate from wind and
exposure.
AVALANCHE NOTES,
CHECKLIST
SECONDS
The amount of time in which these
waves of nature can be deadly.
DO THIS FIRST
Take a mountaineering course that specializes
in avalanche education awareness.
INFORM FRIENDS
Before you head out, leave a detailed note with a
responsible person letting them know where you're
going and when you will be returning.
AREAS TO AVOID
Avoid venturing into steep snow country during or after
a heavy snowfall. Areas without trees or brush may give
you advance warning that the area is prone to
avalanches.
35 to 45
Slopes of these degrees are the most
prone to avalanche.
IF CAUGHT IN AN AVALANCHE
Make like youre swimming, moving your arms and legs.
This helps to keep you on top of the flow and creates
airspace around your head and may help to keep the
rest of your body from being stuck.
Eating snow is a net
negative equation. Your
body will expend more
energy melting the snow
than what youll get out
of it.
Cliff Hodges, Adventure Out, LLC

18
WINTER SPORTS
Crevasses are
serious, and they
can be thousands
of feet deep.
Mark Wienert
THE DANGERS
OF CREVASSES
Mountaineering on a snow-covered moun-
tain can lead to a hidden danger falling into a
crevasse that could be deadly.
Crevasses are created from glaciers that
slowly move down a mountain and break over a
hump in the living rock, Wienert says.
Crevasses are serious, and they can be thou-
sands of feet deep.
Wienert says that training is key for avoid-
ing crevasses, because anyone traveling high ele-
vations where glaciers are found should know
how to avoid them. In addition, experienced
climbers typically rope themselves together
that way, if one person falls in, the other can
use his or her ice axe to stop the fall, and pull
the fallen climber out.
To avoid crevasses, stay on the narrow
mountain ridges, if possible, and avoid flatter
bowls, which is where you will find crevasses,
Wienert advises. If you have a long pole, you
can poke it into the snow ahead of you to
locate solid and empty ice.
Alternately, you can carry the pole over
your shoulder at a right angle to your body.
If you drop in the hole, the pole may give
you a slight chance from falling all the way in by
arresting your fall if you can hang on, he adds.
WHAT IS A CREVASSE?
A deep, narrow gorge that is created from
glaciers that slowly move down a mountain and
break over a hump in the living rock.
THOUSANDS OF FEET DEEP
The depth to which some can be.
HOW TO AVOID THEM
Stay on the narrow mountain ridges and
avoid flatter bowls.
If you have a long pole, poke it into
the snow ahead of you to locate solid and
empty ice.
Alternately, you can carry the pole over
your shoulder at a right angle to your body.
CREVASSE AVOIDANCE 101
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19
WHEN A BEAR ATTACKS
STAYING
HYDRATED
Anyone exercising in the winter can
tell you that hydration is just as impor-
tant in the cold as it is in the summer
months. However, with streams frozen,
the obvious hydration choice is to con-
sume snow. This is typically safe, Hodges
says, but be sure to melt it before con-
suming it.
Eating snow is a net negative equa-
tion, he says. Your body will expend
more energy melting the snow than what
youll get out of it.
AVALANCHE
AIRBAGS
Traversing a moun-
tain in winter is scary to
consider, due to all of
the potential risksbut
carrying an avalanche
airbag can give you
peace of mind.
These products, such
as the one shown here
from ABS Systems, can
attach to your backpack
and inflate when neces-
sary with the pull of a
handle. When it inflates,
it gives the mountaineer
more room to move and
breathe and helps him
from getting com-
pressed into the falling
snow.
Although your chances of coming across a black bear are rare, you should know what to do if you
happen to see one. Consider these tips compiled by Glacier National Park rangers in Montana:
1. DONT BE
EASY PREY
If you believe a bear is
following you and you
cannot escape, make
noise, wave a branch
or rock, or use pepper
spray to indicate that
you are not worth
fighting.
2. BACK AWAY
If you instead surprise a bear
(more common), do not run.
Back away slowly, but stop if
it seems to agitate the bear,
the Glacier National Park
rangers advise. Assume a non-
threatening posture. Turn side-
ways, or bend at the knees to
appear smaller.
3. PROTECT
YOUR CHEST
If the bear does attack you,
fall to the ground on your
stomach or assume the fetal
position to protect your chest
and abdomen. Hold your
hands over the back of your
neck and stay still until the
bear leaves.

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SURVIVE A FALL INTO ICY WATER
If you fall through the ice, climb out, strip off
your wet clothes and get close to a fire.
If dry clothes or blankets are available,
wrap yourself in those.
The key is getting body temperature back up
and getting dry.
If you are in an exposed area, build reflector
walls out of debris and/or tuck your fire area in
to a cave or rocky area to help insulate from
wind and exposure.
TRAINING IS KEY
Surviving on a mountain in winter requires
training and preparation. You can enroll in either
of our experts survival courses through their Web
sites below.
Adventure Out, LLC, offers classes in all types
of outdoor education, including survival, surfing, rock
climbing, backpacking and mountain biking.
www.adventureout.com.
Lifesong Wilderness Adventures offers
hands-on courses in wilderness survival, bushcraft,
nature awareness and animal tracking skills.
www.lifesongadventures.com.
CLOSE
ENCOUNTERS
WITH BEARS
Many would-be winter sports enthusiasts
avoid heading to the mountain in the winter
because theyre afraid of waking a hibernating
animal and potentially being attacked, but this
shouldnt be your primary worry on a moun-
tain, Hodges says.
Generally, I would consider being attacked
by a wild animal one of the least important con-
cerns in a survival situation, he says. Other
than grizzly bears (which only exist in a few
places in the lower 48), there are no animals
that pose a significant threat to human beings in
North America. That being said, if you are truly
concerned with not surprising an animal, one
could make extra effort to create loud noises
when moving/traveling through the wilderness.
This technique is often employed by hikers to
scare off black bears.
one could make extra effort to create
loud noises when moving/traveling through
the wilderness. This technique is often
employed by hikers to scare off black
bears.
Cliff Hodges
RISKS,
REWARDS
Risks have their rewards, as you
know so well.
But just make sure you do your
homework before you venture out
into Mother Natures playground for
some thrilling memories. After all,
youve got some free time next week-
end, too.
WINTER SPORTS
ON THIN ICE
There is never a guaran-
tee that ice is safe to walk
on, but youll be more likely
to break through the ice if
you notice water flowing
under the ice or around the
edges, water pools on top of
the ice, or cracks that appear
to be under the ice. These
are all signs that the ice is
thin and could break with
any weight.
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George R. Bradford
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22
Be st I n
Wi nt e r Ge a r
G
E
A
R
Beat The Elements With These Hot Items
Brutal. Temperatures below 0. Mix in a wind chill. Add a blustery storm to
the mix. Winter can be unforgiving, unless youre prepared. In the following
pages, weve got a number of hot items so you can withstand the elements,
function and survive. Kick a little brutality back at Old Man Winter.
EDITORS CHOICE
MR. HEATER
www.mrheaterhero.com
Special Features: Portable,
efficient, quick heating
MSRP: $179-200

23
MR. HEATER
www.mrheaterhero.com
Model: Hero
Key features: Portable, efficient,
quick heating
MSRP: $179-200
Description:
If youve ever been camping in the
bitter cold and had trouble starting
a fire, you know how welcome a
backup warmth source would be.
The Mr. Heater Hero is a portable
propane heater that can operate for
up to eight hours on one battery
charge. Use it to stave off frostbite
or just to keep yourself comfortable
during an ice fishing excursion,
and then pack it away again for
later. Weighing just 12 pounds, it
operates quietly and without the
need for electricity, keeping you
toasty no matter where you find
yourself.
ERGODYNE
www.ergodyne.com
Model: Core Performance Work
Wear 6480 Bottoms
Key features: Durable, warm,
breathable
MSRP: $40-45
Description:
Youve no doubt heard the advice
to dress in layers when youre
out in the winter, and thats never
been easier, thanks to these
durable and breathable base layer
bottoms. Pull on your Core Perfor-
mance thermals before you step
into your pants, and youll be able
to remain out in the cold for much
longer, thanks to the heat contain-
ment abilities of these bottoms.
The soft wicking fabric is fitted so
it wont ride up, but it grabs perspi-
ration and pulls it away from your
skin quickly and then dries fast to
ensure that you stay comfortable.
HEAT FACTORY
www.heatfactory.com
Model: Seater Heater
Key features: Padded, heated,
comfortable
MSRP: $15-17
Description:
Sitting in a chilly tent can be an
unpleasant experience if you dont
have padding between the tent
floor and your bottom, but the
Seater Heater offers a comfortable
way to relax. The water-resistant
cushioned seat rests comfortably
on any surface, from the ground to
the ice to the snow. Add one of the
included 18-hour heat packs, and
the seat suddenly becomes a heat
source, allowing you to enjoy a
warm rest before you clip it to your
belt and hit the trail again.
1
2
3
2
$40-45
ERGODYNE
3
$15-17
HEAT FACTORY
1
$179-200
MR. HEATER
Use it to stave off frost-
bite or just to keep your-
self comfortable during
an ice fishing excursion
buyers
Guide GEAR

TUBBS
www.tubbssnowshoes.com
Model: Womens Wilderness
Snowshoe
Key features: High traction,
comfortable, simple heel lift
MSRP: $180-220
Description:
Snowshoes are a must in certain
snowy and icy terrains, but many
people avoid them because of the
perception that they are difficult to
snap into and out of on the fly. But
the Tubbs snowshoes defy that
stereotype, with a binding that allows
you to step in and click back out in a
moment. Youll barely remember
youre wearing them thanks to the
light weight and comfortuntil you
walk across the ice with easeand
then youll be pleased youve
strapped into these sleek shoes.
BLACK
DIAMOND
www.blackdiamondequipment.
com
Model: Raven Ice Axe With Grip
Key features: Lightweight, durable,
comfortable grip
MSRP: $95
Description:
An ice axe is an invaluable tool when
traveling the snow or ice, thanks to
its innate ability to quickly grab onto
any type of terrain and allow you to
maintain stability. The Black Diamond
Raven Ice Axe weighs just one pound,
two ounces with its slider leash
attached, allowing you to toss it into
your pack or hang it from your cara-
biner and grab it again quickly when-
ever you need it. The aircraft alu-
minum alloy reinforces the axes
strength, ensuring you that youll stay
in place no matter where you are.
FISCHER SPORTS
www.fischersports.com
Model: Alpine Comfort Socks
Key features: Waterproof, windproof,
breathable
MSRP: $35
Description:
Anyone who spends time in the snow
will tell you that a strong base layer is
one of the most important keys to
staying warm, and Fischer Alpine
Comfort Socks give you one of the
strongest foundations available.
Thanks to the companys functional
fabric, youll get a waterproof, wind-
proof, breathable material that wicks
moisture away from your body. A
cushioned sole allows you to ski,
skate or hike through the snow with-
out suffering foot fatigue, so you defi-
nitely wont want to pack your bag
without including your Alpine Comfort
Socks.
4
4
$180-220
TUBBS
buyers
Guide GEAR
5
6
Tubbs snowshoes defy
that stereotype, with a
binding that allows you
to step in and click back
out in a moment.
5
$95
BLACK DIAMOND
24
COURTESY BLACK DIAMOND EQUIPMENT

25
ERGODYNE
www.ergodyne.com
Model: Proflex 817 WP Thermal Waterproof
Utility Gloves
Key features: Waterproof, windproof,
durable, breathable
MSRP: $23-30
Description:
Dexterity and warmth dont always go hand-
in-hand, but with the Ergodyne Proflex
gloves, you can complete even the most
technical tasks without getting frostbite. The
Thinsulate insulation, coupled with the
gloves water and windproof material, gives
you exactly the movement you need to keep
in action. A synthetic leather palm adds dura-
bility, and the padded back keeps you from
getting injured whether youre creating a
campfire, tying up your fishing gear or build-
ing a shelter.
HEAT FACTORY
www.heatfactory.com
Model: Hand and Body Warmers
Key features: Long-lasting, easy to use,
highly warming
MSRP: $1 each
Description:
An essential part of any winter survival kit is
a way to stay warm if you dont have a space
heater or fire-making abilities, and the Heat
Factory Hand and Body Warmers definitely do
the trick. Throw a few packs in your car, your
coat pockets, and your bug-out bag so when
you need a few extra degrees, you can grab
one, which will generate heat for 10 or more
hours. Theyre ultra-thin, which means that
you can stuff them into your gloves and
socks to increase the warming power of your
garments and keep you on the trail longer.
FISCHER SPORTS
www.fischersports.com
Model: Martin Neckwarmer
Key features: Soft, durable, highly warming
MSRP: $25-35
Description:
Feeling wind chill on any part of your body
can make your outdoor excursion seem bru-
tally unforgiving, but you can keep your neck
covered in any weather using Fischers Mar-
tin Neckwarmer. The soft PES fabric is wind-
proof and breathable, and keeps any mois-
ture such as perspiration or snowfall away
from your skin while you scale that moun-
tain, cut into the ice to find fish, or head into
the wild to hunt deer.
The soft PES fabric
is windproof and
breathable, and
keeps any moisture
such as perspiration
or snowfall away
from your skin
7
8
9
6
$35
FISCHER SPORTS
7
$23-30
ERGODYNE
8
$1 EACH
HEAT FACTORY
9
$23-35
FISCHER SPORTS
SOCKS, NECKWARMER - COURTESY FISCHER SPORTS

26
buyers
Guide GEAR
HARKEN
www.harken.com
Model: Alpine Fleece Jacket
Key features: Soft, thick, warm,
lightweight
MSRP: $100-120
Description:
Dressing in layers has never been
easier, since this jacket contains
three full layers within its soft fleece
outer shell. The Alpine Fleece Jacket
is coated with Teflon to keep it water-
resistant, and includes wool lining to
keep your skin dry and warm. You
wont even feel the wind biting into
you, thanks to the jackets ability to
fight the bitter cold. Want more
waterproofing capability? Use this
jacket as a mid-layer and pull your
foul weather gear over itthe Alpine
Fleece Jacket is thin enough that it
wont feel bulky under your other
gear.
TUBBS
www.tubbssnow
shoes.com
Model: Mens Flex Alp Snowshoe
Key features: Quick snap-in and out,
comfortable, high gripping capability
MSRP: $230
Description:
Falling down in the snow or ice can
be devastatingand can cause seri-
ous injuriesbut you can trust that
youll stay steady on your trek with
Flex Alp Snowshoes, which offer
quick in-and-out bindings, comfort-
able flexing ability, and an extremely
high gripping factor. Youll stay on the
trail whether youre on flat snow or
uneven terrain, and you can toss
these lightweight shoes into your bag
after youre done with your travels.
ORTOVOX
www.orotovox.com
Model: 3+ Avalanche Tranceiver
Key features: Life-saving, lightweight
MSRP: $340-350
Description:
Mountaineering is a dangerous sport
in the wintertime, based on the likeli-
hood of experiencing an avalanche.
But you can increase the odds that
youll survive one of these terrifying
ordeals with the 3+ Tranceiver, which
sends out a signal to allow rescuers
to find you if youre ever buried in the
snow. The LCD screen shows the
search party exactly how to find you,
guiding them in your direction so you
can be dug out quickly. Operating on
just one AA battery, the Tranceiver is
lightweight, but it carries a heavy
duty when it protects your life.
11
12
10
$100-120
HARKEN 10
Why Does Cotton Kill?
One key ingredient to surviving outside in the winter months
is to stay warm and dry. This means wearing materials that
carry moisture away from your skinand unfortunately, cotton
is not one of them, leading many survivalists to repeat the old
phrase cotton kills.
Although cotton has its advantages in many applications, if
youve ever used a cotton washcloth or towel, you know how
incredibly absorbent the material is, and thats what makes it
ineffective for wearing when you want to stay dry. Any perspira-
tion or precipitation will soak your cotton and make it difficult to
keep your skin dry.
Instead, you should consider materials that wick moisture
away from your skin, which are typically synthetic materials
such as fleece.
SAFETY
PRECAUTIONS
WITH PROPANE
Although propane heaters
can be a must in the winter-
time, you should always use
caution when using this type
of gas. The National Fire Pro-
tection Association reports
that around 1,170 home struc-
ture fires involved propane
between 2003 and 2007,
resulting in 34 deaths. The
NFPA offers the following
safety tips when using
propane:
Follow manufacturer
instructions for lighting the
pilot and using the heater,
and only use cylinder
tanks outside of the home
Never store or use propane
gas cylinders larger than
one pound inside the
home
Never operate a propane
gas grill in the house
Have propane gas
equipment inspected
periodically for leaks
or malfunctioning
parts
If you smell a
strong gas odor,
leave the area
immediately
Source: www.nfpa.org.
THE BASICS OF
SNOWSHOEING
You may wonder why any-
one would need snowshoes
unless they plan to train a
dogsled team. However, your
survival strategy could depend
on these amazing pieces of
gear if youre stuck in the
snow or ice for any period of
time.
Essentially, any time
youre in the cold backcoun-
try, a pair of snowshoes will
allow you to venture through
all types of terrain without
slipping on the ice or dipping
down into the packed snow.
You can not only get from
point A to point B easily in
snowshoes, but youll get to
see the countryside during an
outdoor workout.
$340-350
ORTOVOX 12

27
$230
TUBBS 11
$30
BLACK DIAMOND 13
BLACK DIAMOND
www.blackdiamond
equipment.com
Model: Powerstretch
Key features: Soft, lightweight,
flexible
MSRP: $30
Description:
These stretchy gloves are perfect for an
afternoon setting up a tent or collecting
firewood. Comfortable, flexible, and soft,
they offer wind resistance and quick
drying capabilities. Youll be able to grip
your fishing pole with the goat leather
palms and thumb patches, which ensure
that your hands wont slip off of some-
thing valuable. In addition, the Power-
stretch gloves can slip under your
heavy-duty waterproof mittens if youre
out in the rain, serving as an effective
thermal liner.
13

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By Torrey Kim
WE Bust FIVE Cold-Weather Survival Myths
WINTER WI

29

HEY ARE ALL ABOUT URBAN
LEGEND, SUPERSTITION AND
FOLKLORE.
They are wives tales.
While they often center around adoles-
cence, they do extend into Old Man Win-
ters realm, too, as youre about to see. So, if
youve ever wondered whether some of the
old wives tales about winter survival are
true, youve come to the right place, as
youre better off knowing the answer before
youre faced with an actual survival situation.
T
xxx
VES TALES

MYTHS
WIVES TALE:
A SPOONFUL OF
WHISKEY WILL
MAKE THE FROSTBITE
GO DOWN
THE TRUTH: One of the most
common beliefs about staying warm in
the cold is that drinking alcohol will
keep you from getting hypothermia or
frostbite. Unfortunately, however, this
old wives tale is just that a myth.
Alcohol makes you feel warmer,
but it doesnt change the temperature
of your body, says Tim Smith of Jack
Mountain Bushcraft School in
Masardis, Maine.
If theres any risk that you may be
getting frostbite or hypothermia,
Smith says, light a fire rather than
opening a bottle of liquor. Not only
will this ensure that you stay warm,
but it will also allow you to keep your
judgment intact should you face other
issues that require quick thinking.
WIVES TALE:
POURING HOT WATER
OVER YOUR HANDS
WILL KEEP THEM
WARM
THE TRUTH: Many cold win-
ter adventurers have reported that
they will pour warm water over their
hands or even urinate on them to
warm them up if they fear that frost-
bite might be approaching. However,
Smith advises, this is not always the
smartest idea.
If youre ice fishing on a frozen
lake and you have a thermos of warm
water with you, its a bad idea to just
pour that over your hands, he says.
Youre wasting your warm water
supply and you now have wet hands
that wont stay warm for more than a
few minutes unless you have warm,
dry gloves to put on them.
If, however, you have a fire where
you can continually reheat the water,
you can soak your hands in the water
as long as it stays warm, because a
warm soak can help your hands thaw,
as long as you keep your clothes dry
during the process.
In addition, Smith says, if you
already have frostbite, do not try and
warm your skin by rubbing or massag-
ing it without professional help.
The first nip you get initially in
your fingers when its cold outside is
usually not a big deal thats just a
warning that you need to get warm,
he says. But if you get third-degree
frostbite where tissue is actually
frozen, then the last thing you want to
do is reheat it. Not only will the heat
increase the danger of sepsis and gan-
grene, but it will be incredibly painful.
Instead, people with frostbite
should go to the hospital immediately.
THE
SYMPTOMS
OF FROSTBITE
Keep these
signs in mind if
you think you
might have frost-
bite. If you do
have the symp-
toms, report to a
medical facility
immediately:
White or gray-
ish-yellow skin
Skin that feels
strangely firm
or waxy
Numbness
Source:
The Centers for
Disease Control
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Whiskey
decanter

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WIVES TALE:
A HILL IS WARMER
THAN A VALLEY
THE TRUTH: When youre setting up
your winter campsite, it can be tempting to
pitch your tent on top of a hill, using the argu-
ment that the suns warmth can reach you
faster. However, that may not always be the
smartest decision. Besides, the earth heats
from the ground up.
The answer to this depends on the land-
scape where you are, Smith says. Many fac-
tors come into play, such as the potential for
an avalanche on the mountain, which location
has the most resources for making a fire and
other issues. But in open country, Id make my
campsite at the bottom of the hill. It will pool
the coolest air, but it wont be a difference of
50 degrees the gradations will be small.
The bottom of the hill will be more pro-
tected from the wind chill, which could not
only make you colder, but could make it harder
to keep your fire going.
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CONSIDER PROFESSIONAL
TRAINING
Before heading out on any winter survival
ventures, you should ensure that you have
the right equipment and that youre aware of
how to handle an emergency.
A good survival class really can save your
life. Make sure that the instructor has cold-
weather experience.
To reach Tim Smith, the expert featured
in this article, visit Jack Mountain Bushcraft
Schools Web site at www.jackmtn.com.

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Alcohol makes you
feel warmer, but it
doesnt change the
temperature of your
body. Tim Smith, of the
Jack Mountain Bushcraft
SchooL

32
MYTHS
WIVES TALE:
NEVER EXPOSE BARE SKIN TO THE ELEMENTS
THE TRUTH: One of the most important ways to stay warm while
venturing out in the cold is to dress in layers and wear well-insulated cloth-
ing. So it goes without saying that you should never expose bare skin to the
cold weather, right?
Not necessarily.
If you need to pick up something wet, youre better off using your bare
hands to do it, then immediately drying them and putting your gloves back
on your hands. Its faster and easier to dry your skin than to dry a pair of
gloves. In addition, if your gloves, socks, or other items get wet, you should
take them off immediately and replace them with dry gear. The brief bare
skin exposure is better for you than walking around in wet apparel.
Many adventurers have reported that they will pour warm water
over their handsor even urinate on themto warm them up if they
fear that frostbite might be approaching.
WIVES TALE:
A SMALLER FIRE IS SMARTER
THE TRUTH: Many adventurers have heard the phrase, Make a
small fire and sit close, but that may not always be possible.
This is an old saying that doesnt come from places that get bitter
cold, Smith says.
When its really cold and snowy out, you could be stuck making a fire
out of soggy materials, which may lead to a huge fire, he says. And if mak-
ing a small fire is impossible, you should settle for a big one because
warmth is the most important factor.
TRAVEL IN GROUPS
One survival tip that is definitely not a myth is that you shouldnt travel alone
during the winter months. You have a better chance of survival if you head out on
your adventure with at least one other person. That way, if one of you gets into a
difficult situation, the other person can provide assistance or call for help.
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Top 10 Wi nter
Survival Items
When The Elements Are Harsh, You
Want Your Best Line-Up With You
You always want your best team on the field, and thats especially the
case in winter. You dont want to be stuck outside without survival gear in
the dead of winter when the elements are at their least forgiving so you
really need to pack your best equipment to give yourself the best chance of
survival such as the following 10 items.
By Torrey Kim
SEIRUS
www.seirus.com
Model: Hoodz
Key Features: Warm, soft,
lightweight, multi-purpose
MSRP: $25-30
Description:
Whether youre ice fishing,
climbing a mountain, shovel-
ing snow or hiking through
the woods, you wont get far if
the wind chill is biting at your
face. The Seirus Hoodz is far
more than a hatin fact, it
does triple duty, serving as a
cozy fleece neck gauntlet,
hood and mask all in one. If
you get too warm, you can
pull down the hood and mask,
and wear it only as a gaiter
until you need to pull the cov-
ering over your head when
the wind picks up again. Pack
the Hoodz in your backpack or
just pop it into your pocket
before your next trek.
COGHLANS
www.coghlans.com
Model: Tinder Kit
Key Features: Fast-lighting,
effective, lightweight
MSRP: $5-8
Description:
If youve ever desperately
needed a fire but found your-
self with soaking wet
matchesor worse yet, no
matches at allyou know
how valuable an emergency
fire-making device can be.
Coghlans Tinder Kit includes
everything you need to get a
fire started, and its light
enough to carry in your
pocket. You simply spread out
the included fluffy tinder and
then use the enclosed flint to
create a spark and get your
fire started. The tinder will
burn for more than five min-
utes, giving it plenty of time
to spread to your prepared
kindling and logs.
DONT FORGET
WATER
Whether you carry your
water with you or you plan
to collect and purify it along
the trail, you must hydrate,
no matter what the season.
Even in the wintertime,
ensure that youve got room
in your pack for a sturdy
water bottle.
1
2
25-30
SEIRUS
2
$5-8
COGHLANS
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ZIPPO
www.zippo.com
Model: Hand Warmer
Key Features: Fast-acting,
flameless,long-lasting
MSRP: $14-20
WILD
THINGS GEAR
www.wildthingsgear.com
Model: Ms Wind Pro Hoody
Key Features: Lightweight, warm,
customizable
MSRP: $140
Description:
When youre caught in the snow, you
not only need to stay warmyou also
need to remain dry. The Wind Pro
Hoody offers both of those benefits by
fitting snugly enough to keep you com-
fortable without riding up or inhibiting
your movement. Although its not
bulky, the high-tech Polartec material
does provide a massive amount of
warmth, allowing you to perform your
favorite outdoor activity while blocking
the effects from wind or precipitation.
An added bonus? Wild Things recently
offered a new feature that allows you
to customize your garment by chang-
ing the fabric, insulation, zipper, hood,
pocket placement and more.
SNOW CLAW
www.snowclaw.com
Model: Shovel
Key Features: Versatile, lightweight,
strong
MSRP: $20
Description:
Its more than a shovel. The Snow Claw
is a multi-use tool that can not only dig
your car out of the mud, uncover your
pack after a major snowfall and hook
directly to your backpack for quick
storage, it can also act as a snow
anchor, plate and even an emergency
splint, thanks to its light weight and its
ability to flex without breaking. Forget
about hauling your 10-pound garden
shovel around in your car as you make
your next journey. Just snap the Snow
Claw to your pack, and youre ready for
everything thrown your way.
EAGLE CREEK
www.eaglecreek.com
Model: Afar Backpack
Key Features: Comfortable,
breathable, lightweight
MSRP: $100-120
Description:
When you start to gather your
survival tools, you wont get too far
unless you have a sturdy pack that will
hold them securely on your trek. The
Afar backpack will not only give you
the peace of mind that your goods will
stay with you, but it will also save you
from back strain. Weighing just 1
pound, 11 ounces when its empty, the
pack also features ergonomic shoulder
straps, adjustable sternum strap and
hip belt. The back is made from
padded, breathable mesh so your back
wont sweat, and its reflective features
will ensure that youll be visible at all
hours, day or night.
3
4
5
TOP 10
Description:
Weve all heard stories of survivalists putting hot stones or freshly baked potatoes in their
pockets to stay warm throughout the day, but the Zippo Hand Warmer takes a more mod-
ern approach and lasts significantly longer than the pioneer methods. Activate the sleek
warmer and youve got 12 hours of heat in your pocket. If you need warmth again the
next day, just refill it with more of the lighter fluid and you can use it for another 12 hours.
You might want to invest in two, or youll be passing the Hand Warmer back and forth
between your hands and pockets to keep both toasty.
6
3
$140
WILD THINGS GEAR
5
$100-120
EAGLECREEK
6
$14-20
ZIPPO
4
$20
SNOW
CLAW
Weve all heard stories of survivalists
putting hot stones or freshly baked potatoes
in their pockets to stay warm but the Zippo
Hand Warmer takes a more modern approach
Thanks to this list, youve got a way to start fire, and
plenty of tinderbut dont forget to gather kindling and
larger pieces of wood when you arrive at your campsite to
ensure that you stay warm and you can cook your food.
34
COLLECT
PLENTY
OF WOOD

35
SURVIVAL
STRAPS
www.survivalstraps.com
Model: Bracelet
Key Features: Lightweight, easy
to carry, multi-use
MSRP: $25-30
7
$25-30
SURVIVAL STRAPS
SMARTWOOL
www.smartwool.com
Model: PHD Hyfi Training Gloves
Key Features: Wind resistant, soft, allows for
touch-screen access
MSRP: $40
Description:
Youre hiking through the cold, battling a wind-
chill of 25 degrees, but you need to use your
smart-phone to check out a local map. Pulling
off the gloves and exposing your hands to the
bitter cold isnt an optionbut you wont have
to with the Hyfi Training Gloves. These soft and
comfortable gloves keep you warm no matter
how fast the wind is whipping, and the silicone
palm and finger grips allow you to safely hold
your electronics. The fingertip panels allow you
to access your smart-phone apps and other fea-
tures without removing your gloves, which will
be a huge bonus in the winter.
LIGHT MY FIRE
www.lightmyfire.com
Model: Swedish Fire Knife
Key Features: Easy to grip, fast fire-starting
ability, works wet or dry
MSRP: $30-35
Description:
This lightweight and ultra-sharp knife serves
double duty at dinnertimeit not only helps you
clean your fish, but it allows you to start a fire
with its built-in Firesteel technology. The all-
purpose knife comes in a colorful sheath so you
wont lose it in the grass, and it has an included
fire starter. Simply turn the knife blade around
and pull the fire starter against its back, and
youll find a shower of sparks on the first try to
ignite your tinder and get a fire blazing. Pack
the 3.5-inch knife into your pocket, strap it onto
your belt, or toss it into your pack before you go
on any adventure.
YAKTRAX
www.yaktrax.com
Model: PRO traction device
Key Features: Offers traction, easy to pack,
flexible
MSRP: $30
Description:
You may not have space in your winter survival
kit for a pair of snowshoes, but you certainly
have room for these flexible, spike-less traction
devices that strap right onto your regular shoes.
Whether youre wearing sturdy boots or light
athletic shoes, you simply stretch the traction
strap around your footwear and youll be able
to jog through the mountains without slipping
on icy puddles, walk through the packed snow
without falling or hike along an icy trail while
remaining stable. Youll be glad you packed
your Yaktrax PROs in your bug-out bag this
winter.
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LIGHT MY FIRE
De
Wh y with paracord? Lash together a trap, create a fishing
line, hang your rain fly, make a belt and thousands of other uses. If
your bug-out bag doesnt have space for 15 extra feet of paracord,
youre in luck. Clip a Survival Strap to your wrist, and youve got addi-
tional military-grade paracord secured by a stainless steel clasp. If you
encounter a situation that creates a need for the rope, simply unravel
the bracelet and use the paracord. Then contact the Survival Straps
Company and let them know the emergency situation that necessitated
its use, and theyll send you a new one at no charge!
8
$40
SMARTWOOL
$30
YAKTRAX
10
youll find
a shower of
sparks on the
first try to
ignite your
tinder and get
a fire blazing.
BONUS PRODUCT:
Gerber Bear Grylls Knife
Youve seen him on television
making a sealskin wetsuit, cutting
branches to make a fire and lashing
together logs to create a raftall using
his trusty knife. Bear Grylls is famous
for his ability to devise a shelter or a
meal with his knife, and thanks to
Gerbers Bear Grylls line, you can do
the same. With a wide range of
products, many of which have multiple
uses (for instance, a whistle or a fire
rod), youll love the ergonomic handle
and the incredibly sharp blade when
youre out in the wild.

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Fast F ood
F
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Innovative Food AND Water Products
Face it. Camping or persevering through the aftermath of a disaster with a
grumbling stomach is no fun. This month, we have a new slew of stellar items
to check out. With these fantastic items youll have plenty of energy to enjoy
your excursion or your weeklong backpacking adventure in one piece.
EDITORS CHOICE
KELTY
www.kelty.com
Model: Basecamp Kitchen
Special Features: All-in-one
kitchen solution, ample storage,
easy to assemble, lightweight
MSRP: $160

37
KELTY
www.kelty.com
Model: Basecamp Kitchen
Key Features: All-in-one kitchen
solution, ample storage, easy to
assemble, lightweight
MSRP: $160
Description:
The Basecamp Kitchen is the
shining star of campsite food
preparation. It lets you enjoy the
conveniences of your kitchen at
home, even while relaxing by the
campfire. This all-in-one kitchen
is our No. 1 pick for a good rea-
sonit makes you feel like
youre at your own dining table.
With the Basecamp Kitchen,
space isnt at a premium; theres
plenty of countertop and surface
area to prepare your favorite
meals. If its a windy day, theres
no need to fret and pack up. Its
durable aluminum tabletop and
windscreens let you enjoy your
meal, still piping hot. We espe-
cially love the ample storage!
Preparing, cooking and clean-up
have never been such a breeze!
SOLAR OVEN
SOCIETY
www.solarovens.org
Model: SPORT Solar Oven
Key Features: Large capacity,
weather resistant, long-lasting,
stable
MSRP: $135
Description:
Solar energy isnt just good for
heating your homeit also
comes in handy for cooking tasty
and nutritious meals. Introducing
the SPORT Solar Oven, an oven
completely powered by solar
power. Not only is it environmen-
tally-friendly, its easy to use.
Simply place your favorite food
in the included pots, ensure the
oven is facing the sun, and youll
have a warm, tasty meal in no
time. Enjoy all the delicacies
from home while camping
including meat, fish, steamed
vegetables, bread, cake and
cookies. Best of all, no lemon
juice is requiredthe oven uses
natural moisture, giving your
food an all-natural taste. Solar
energy has never tasted so good.
ensure the
oven is facing
the sun and
youll have a
warm, tasty
meal in no time.
1
2
2
$135
SOLAR OVEN SOCIETY
buyers
Guide FOOD

DEUTER SPORT
www.deuter.com
Model: Streamer
Key Features: Hygienic, taste-free tube,
constant flow
MSRP: $30
Description:
Water is a basic human necessity. We can
survive without food for up to 30 days, but
if theres a shortage of water watch out!
Hydration is key if youre planning to take
a weekend backpacking trek. A lot of
backpacks allow you to use a hydration
system, but its up to you select the best
one. Streamer provides you with a steady
stream of water to ensure youre well-
hydrated thanks to its patented Helix
Valve. Your water is fresh and taste-free
every time, whether its straight from the
tap or three weeks old!
GSI OUTDOORS
www.gsioutdoors.com
Model: Pinnacle Backpacker
Key Features: Cooks gourmet meals, dou-
bles as a sink or wash basin, compact
MSRP: $90
Description:
Enjoy scrumptious gourmet meals from
the comfort of your campsite. This brilliant
set has everything youll ever need to cook
a meal for twoa pot, frying pan and
storage containers. The Pinnacle Back-
packer is built tough to withstand many
uses. Not only is it heat-resistant, its
crushproof and scratch-resistant. Its
compact and easy to store, perfect fo
backpacking! Best of all clean-up is
breeze; the stuff sack acts as a mak
sink and wash basin, so your dishes
sparkling clean every time.
3

buyers
Guide
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FOOD/WATER



FOOD TO TAKE CAMPING
Would you like to take your
favorite foods from home next tim
you go camping, but youre worrie
they will spoil? Check our list belo
for the best foods to take camping
that will remain fresh and taste go
Dried, dehydrated, freeze-dried
meals Not only do they have a
long shelf life (freeze-dried mea
can last years before they expir
they provide you with plenty of
energy.
Coffee, tea and hot chocolate
long as you have a way to boil
water, you can enjoy your morn
cup of Joe while camping.
Cereal, bread and pasta A hea
adult should have 5-10 servings
grains per day. These three foo
are an excellent way to get fibe
your diet.
Chocolate, cookies, marshmallo
These foods are perfect to sn
on near the campfire if you hav
sweet tooth. Who doesnt love m
ing Smores by the campfire?
Soup, canned vegetables and tu
Canned foods are an excellent
camping staple. Just be sure to
bring along your can opener!
4
$90
GSI OUTDOORS

39
BODUM
www.bodum.com
Model: FYRKAT Picnic gas
grill, propane regulator
Key Features: Easy to set
up, lightweight, portable
MSRP: $120-$140
Description:
Grilling can be a real pain in
the neck. Not only do you
have to set up, but you also
have to wait in angst until
the barbecue is at an opti-
mum temperature to enjoy
your food. Turn that frown
upside down with the
FYRKAT Picnic Gas Grill,
where waiting is a thing of
the past. This brilliant grill
is ready to cook from the
get-go. Powered by the
magic of propane, its great
for cooking all your favorite
foods, including steaks,
sausages, vegetables and
fish. Best of all, its com-
pact enough to fit in your
trunk, so you can take it
with you wherever you go.
Turn that
frown upside
down with
the FYRKAT
Picnic Gas
Grill.
SIERRA
DAWN
www.sierradawn.com
Model: Campsuds Bath
Soap & Shampoo Formula
Key Features: Environmen-
tally-friendly; clean body,
face and hair
MSRP: $7-23
Description:
Hygiene can be challenging,
especially while camping.
Its hard to stay clean and
fresh when youre camping
with Mother Nature. This
all-purpose cleaner is per-
fect for cleaning your body,
face and hair, leaving you
fresh and squeaky clean. If
youre out of dish detergent,
no worriesit cleans
dishes, too! No need to fear
about leaving a carbon foot-
print, as its completely
environmentally friendly
and biodegradable. Choose
from three alluring fra-
grancesLavender Oil,
Mint Oil and Green Apple
and two convenient sizes: 4
ounce and 8 ounce.
6
6
$7-23
SIERRA DAWN
5

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buyers
Guide FOOD
STERIPEN
www.steripen.com
Model: Sidewinder
Key Features: Durable, easy to
clean, lightweight, stable
MSRP: $100
Description:
Instantly enjoy fresh, purified
water in less than two minutes,
every time. And no batteries
required! Through the magic of
the Sidewinders unique UV
system, water is disinfected,
safe to drink and ready to
quench your thirst in a mere 90
seconds. Fill it, crank it and
drink it, knowing youve done
your part to protect the envi-
ronment by reducing plastic
water bottles at landfills. The
Sidewinder is compact and
lightweight, making it the ideal
water purification system to
bring along on your next back-
packing journey.
SKRATCH
LABS
www.skratchlabs.com
Model: Everyday Hydration Mix
Key Features: Provides instant
hot water, lightweight, portable
MSRP: $20
Description:
Are you tired of sports drinks
that energize you for a couple
hours only to leave you burned
out and tired? Are you looking
for a healthy, low calorie alter-
native to soft drinks? Everyday
Hydration Mix is perfect
whether youre exploring the
beauty of Montana or the
desert of Nevada. Only real
ingredients and real fruit are
included, so you can rest
assured youre energized by an
all-natural source.
8
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TREATING WATER FOR DRINKING
According the American Red Cross and the Federal Emergency Man-
agement Agency, there are three safe ways to treat water for drinking:
bleach, boiling and distillation. We covered boiling in the past (as well as
the Sidewinder above), so lets take a look at chlorine bleach and distilling.
Bleach: There are so many different types of bleach available that its
hard to choose the right one. 5.25- and 6-percent chlorine bleach with no
additives are the best types for treating water. Stay clear of the fancy
types of bleach like scented bleach, powdered bleach or bleach with
added cleaners. Make sure your bottle isnt too old; if its older than a year
it may not treat the water properly, so its best to buy a new bottle. To
treat water with bleach youll need an eyedropper; 16 drops of bleach
should be enough to treat one gallon of water. Let water sit for 15 minutes.
If it has the odor of bleach it should be safe to drink.
Distillation: Its probably the least safe and desirable way to treat
water. Only use it as a last resort in a disaster situation if boiling or
bleaching water isnt an option. Distillation only works if you use very pure
and clean water. The best way to distill water is with a small pot, a cup
and a heating source. Let the water boil for at least 20 minutes and drip
into the cup. This is a very slow process; youll need to replenish the pot
with fresh water to avoid contamination.

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$20
SKRATCH LABS 8
DO CANNED FOODS COME
WITH A BUILT-IN POT?
Weve all seen cowboy movies where the rugged campers sit
around a fire eating beans directly from the can, sometimes raw and
sometimes after placing the can directly over the fire to heat. But is
this safe to do in real life? The answer to this, as well as a few other
frequently asked questions about canned food, are below.
Are Soups Ready-To-Eat? If youve got a can of soup and a can
opener, youve got a meal. It is perfectly safe to eat Campbells soups
right out of the can, Campbells says on its website. Our chefs have
already prepared and cooked the soups for you. However, the full fla-
vors of our soups usually will peak when heated. We suggest that you
mix condensed soups with the recommended water or milk additions
before heating.
Can Freezing Damage Canned Goods? You leave your canned
foods in the car overnight, only to find that theyve frozen while you
slept. Is it safe to eat them? The answer depends on a few factors. If
the freezing causes the can to swell, discard it immediately, the FDA
advises. Also, discard frozen cans that are not swollen but have been
allowed to thaw at 40 F or higher, the agency says on its website.
Cans that have thawed and refrozen are not safe. If you have a
frozen can, thaw it in the refrigerator and then open it. If it smells nor-
mal, you should still boil it for 10 to 20 minutes to be safe.
Can You Cook Directly From The Can? You can place a can
over an open flame to cook its contents, as long as the can is opened
first, Hidden Valley advises on its website. Dont cook the can if the lid
is still closed, and dont reuse the can after cookingits a one-time
use pot, Hidden Valley advises.
IT IS NOT A QUESTION OF IF, BUT WHEN . . .
Earthquake, Tornado, Hurricane, Tropical Storm, Ice Storm, Snow Storm, Wild Fire, Flooding . . .
Most of us have experienced a number of these natural disasters in our lifetime. Keeping your
SURVIVAL BAG close so you can grab it and have something to help immediately sustain life,
could be the difference between living to tell the story and being a statistic. Take it from
me, there are things you can do to increase your chances of survival. Let us help you
prepare. Log on to www.SurvivalBagsInc.com. Educate yourself, then plan and train,
to SURVIVE!!
-Mike Haller, President, Survival Bags, Inc.
Former U.S. Marine, Police Officer, Volunteer Firefighter & Paramedic

42
WHITE
By Gregg Swanson
I survived an
avalanche

I rose to a sitting position and sat

on the snow, but then I began sliding
down feet first. I could see where the
cliff was about to drop off, and I was
heading there. At that moment, I
knew then that this was it I was
going to die.

T WAS ALMOST
13 YEARS AGO
THAT I MADE A
SIGNIFICANT
ACCOMPLISHMENT IN
MY LIFE: I SUMMITED
MT. RAINIER! IT WAS
A GREAT EXPERIENCE
AND ONE THAT I
WILL ALWAYS
REMEMBER FOR TWO
OPPOSING REASONS:
I HAD THE JOY OF
CLIMBING TO THE
14,408-FOOT PEAK OF
MT. RAINIER WITH
MY OLDER BROTHER,
AND WE BOTH
SURVIVED AN
AVALANCHE ON
THE WAY DOWN.
I would consider myself
to be a veteran rock climber
and mountaineer, and would
never have imagined that my
climb would end with an
avalanche plowing my
brother, me, and 20 other
climbers down Mt. Rainier,
injuring several of us and
killing one. I was lucky in
that I suffered only two
broken fingers and a torn
PCL (posterior cruciate
ligament) in my left knee.
This is my story.
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The author,
Gregg Swanson,
says he has
dedicated
himself to
continuing to
develop what
was born that
day and help
others to find
their four pillars
of strength.
43

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AN HOUR AT
THE PEAK
My brother and I were part of a climbing
school with those 20 other climbers, camped
at Muir Hut on Mt. Rainier at 10,000 feet
learning and practicing mountaineering tech-
niques.
On the last day, we left for the summit at
around 3 a.m. It was a beautiful clear day and
by the time we reached the bottom of Dis-
appointment Cleaver, the sun was rising and
the moon was setting. Amazingly, we could
see both at the same time.
We made the summit around 10 in the
morning. It really was a gorgeous day, allow-
ing us to see Mt. Hood, Mt. Jefferson and Mt.
St. Helen's. We stayed up at the peak for an
hour and then decided to head back down
because the snow was starting to get mushy.
It was getting warmer, perhaps
approaching 70 degrees, and I shed my
clothes to only the essentials, putting the
excess clothes in my pack before we started
the descent.
The snow was quite slushy, causing me
to sink up to my knees with every step of
the descent. As we approached the traverse
at the bottom of Disappointment Cleaver, a
few of us had snapped ourselves onto an
800-foot rope anchored by aluminum spikes
into the side of the mountain along the ledge,
which had created a makeshift hand railing.
We were also attached to one another, in
groups of five, by ropes attached to our har-
nesses.
As I moved along with the group, I sud-
denly heard someone yell, "Snow!" Immedi-
ately after, I heard the terrifying call:
"Avalanche!" followed by "Run, run, run!"
The beauty
and the beast.
INJURIES SUSTAINED
In the ordeal, Gregg Swanson
suffered from the following ailments:
Hypothermia
Dehydration
Two broken fingers
A torn PCL
I suddenly heard someone yell, Snow! Immediately
after, I heard the terrifying call: Avalanche!
followed by Run, run, run!
Gregg Swanson, climber and avalanche survivor
SURVIVE

45

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COLD WATER
RUNOFF
When I tried to unclip myself from
the rope that connected me to the
anchor line, I looked up and saw the
avalanche coming toward me. I grabbed
onto the rope, hoping to ride out the
avalanche, but then I felt the impact of
moving snow. It just took me with it.
After the avalanche carried me
from my place on the ledge, I was
buried in the snow for what seemed
like hours, but it was only maybe 10 to
15 seconds. I sat up and thats when I
began sliding toward the cliff. I came to
an abrupt stop, but the snow continued
to move past me. After 15 to 20 sec-
onds, it subsided.
After the avalanche was over, 10 of
us were spread over 100 feet, con-
nected by a tangle of rope. The safety
line was taut and strained. Another line
was fraying. Six of us would hang on for
dear life for hours.
I was pinned to the jagged face of a
rock. Across my chest was a rope con-
nected somewhere above me and
pulled taut by the weight of two people
hanging below me. My hand was bro-
ken. If I looked down, I would see two
people in the crevasse, which darkened
from light blue to black.
There I was, suspended over a cliff
with a 1,500+ foot drop, but I knew
inherently that I had to think clearly.
When I decided to give up some of my
outer layers of clothing to help those
below me on the cliff who were
drenched in freezing cold water runoff,
I found the true meaning of giving from
the heart.
NUMBERS ON
MT. RAINIER
54
The number of miles southeast of Seattle,
Washington, where this volcano is located
14,408
The summit elevation of Mt. Rainier
840,000
In years, the estimated age of its early lava deposits
500,000
The age of its cone
16,000
The previous height of the mountain before
a major debris avalanche and
mudflow occurred some 5,000 years ago
1820
AND 1854
The most recent recorded volcanic eruptions
Wikipedia
I could see where the cliff was about to
drop off, and I was heading there. At that
moment, I knew then that this was itI was
going to die. Gregg Swanson
The ruggedness of Mt. Rainier is obvious.

46
SURVIVE
13
How many years ago
this climb occurred
20
The number of climbers
in the expedition
800
In feet, the length of the rope they used
to secure one another
3A.M.
The time they left for the summit
AN AMAZING SIGHT
Daylight seemed to be fading, even though it was mid-afternoon. Finally,
after what seemed like several hours, the rescuers started to arrive, com-
mencing a delicate and slow operation. Rescuers arrived by helicopter and
rappelled to the climbers, securing each one of us with new ropes that
allowed us to crawl to a safe rock to rest.
In total, we had been hanging there for more than five hours. I was
hypothermic, dehydrated, and suffered two broken fingers and a torn PCL.
But overall, my injuries were not bad considering the experience.
Authorities were alerted by walkie-talkie and a helicopter arrived to
transport us to local area hospitals. We waited for an extended time due to
severe cloud cover that limited the helicopters from flying safely.
Unfortunately, in order to reach the helicopter rescue, I had to crawl
back up the hill and walk more than a mile with my injuries. However, mak-
ing the trek with a broken hand and torn PCL, while dehydrated and
hypothermic, allowed me to discover how tough my mind and body can be.
T
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Summitting a mountain
can be exhilarating.
THE CLIMBING NUMBERS

47
There I was,
suspended over
a cliff with a
1,500+ foot drop,
but I knew inher-
ently that I had
to think clearly.
Gregg Swanson
A MODERN WARRIOR
When asked how the climb has altered my life, after much
reflection, I have come to realize that for me, this was my initiation
into what I call modern warriorship. I had to be strong mentally,
physically, emotionally, and spirituality in order to survive and live a
life of power, purpose and passion.
What are the lessons Nature wanted to teach us? It can be a
scary thing to think about. Since the avalanche, I have dedicated
myself to continuing to develop what was born that day and help
others to find their four pillars of strength, without having to go
through such an extreme event.
Gregg Swanson is a mental strength coach helping others to live a
life of power, purpose and passion. You can get his complimentary
report Six Secrets to Creating Mental Strength by visiting
warriormindcoach.com.
70
The temperature at
the summit
10-15
In seconds, the approximate amount of time
Swanson was buried in the snow
5
In hours, the
amount of
elapsed time
before rescuers
arrived

T
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1,500
In feet, the distance of the cliff drop over which
the author was suspended
The majestic Mt. Rainier, the volcano
where the avalanche occurred.
Gregg Swanson said expe-
riencing an avalanche was
his initiation into modern
warriorship.

48
Shed Some Light
SOME PEOPLE ENJOY BEING
IN THE DARKIT CAN MAKE A
COLD NIGHT AT THE CAMP-
SITE STRANGELY PEACEFUL.
OTHERS, HOWEVER, WOULD
PREFER TO AT LEAST KNOW
THAT LIGHT IS AVAILABLE
IF NEEDED. OR SOMETIMES
MOTHER NATURE INTER-
VENES AND LETS YOU
UNEQUIVOCALLY KNOW
THAT SHES IN CHARGE,
AND THERE WILL BE NO
ELECTRICITY AND THATS
WHERE THESE HANDY
GADGETS COME IN.
With darkness falling earlier during
the cold winter months, keeping a light
source nearby is essential. Toss one of
the smaller flashlights into your glove
compartment, and keep a spare lantern
in the garage. With a few options in
your bug-out bag, you wont be stuck
without light for long.
L
G
H
T
S
EDITORS CHOICE
SKIL
www.Skiltools.com
Model: 2350 Cordless Screwdriver
and Flashlight
Key Features: Dual-purpose,
bright light, lightweight
MSRP: $30-35
Rely on these light sources to ensure
that you wont be in the dark.

49
SKIL
www.Skiltools.com
Model: 2350 Cordless Screwdriver
and Flashlight
Key features: Dual-purpose,
bright light, lightweight
MSRP: $30-35
Description:
Keep two of your most beloved tools in your kit
without doubling the weight of your bug-out
bag, thanks to SKILs dual-purpose cordless
screwdriver and flashlight. The rechargeable
tool offers 4 volts of power in the screwdriver,
totaling 180 rpm of speed for your quick winter
repairs.
Turn around the tool to light up the LED bulb,
which provides a strong, bright light to get you
through the darkness. You wont need a sepa-
rate container to hold the screwdriver bits,
because they snap directly into the on-tool stor-
age compartment, making this double-duty tool
an essential part of your survival pack.
BLACK DIAMOND
www.blackdiamondequipment.com
Model: Storm Headlamp
Key features: Waterproof, bright light,
hands-free
MSRP: $45-50
Description:
Walking through the snow can often mean youll
risk shorting out your light source, but thats not
the case with the Storm headlamp, which is
fully waterproof. The 100 lumens of maximum
power come from the five included lights: a
triple-power LED, two single-power white LEDs,
and two single-power red LED lights that give
you night vision power.
Simply pop in four AAA batteries, strap the light
to your head, and turn it to your desired proxim-
ity and distance modes before you trust this
light to lead your way. If you fall into the
stream, youre still covered, thanks to the water
immersion protection that can operate down to
3.3 feet for up to 30 minutes.
CONCEPT SOLAR LIGHTS
www.conceptsolarlights.com
Model: SL-10 Solar Lantern
Key features: Works without electricity,
bright light, easy to install
MSRP: $39
Description:
Forget the batteriesyou can let the suns rays
power this weather-resistant lantern, which
works well both indoor and outside. You can set
it to automatically switch on after nightfall, or
you can select when you want the LED lights to
give you 50 lumens of power, which can cover
up to 80 square feet of light.
You wont need any wires to get this lantern set
up at your campsite. Simply hang it from the
nearest tree or carabiner, let it absorb the suns
power, and then switch it on whenever you
need some light. The SL-10 will keep your
campsite bright and well-lit into the evening.
buyers
Guide LIGHTS
1
2
3
3
$39
CONCE
SOLAR
LIGHTS
If you fall into the stream,
youre still covered, thanks
to the water immersion
protection that can operate
down to 3.3 feet for up to
30 minutes.
2
$45-50
BLACK DIAMOND
1
$30-35
SKIL
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R
T
E
S
Y

B
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Q
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N
T

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LL BEAN
www.llbean.com
Model: 10-Day Camp Lantern
Key features: Extended light, dimmer switch,
water-resistant
MSRP: $39.95
Description:
Why is this attractive and sleek lantern called the
10-Day Camp Lantern? On just one set of D-cell
batteries, you can keep your location constantly
illuminated for 10 full days on the low setting. If
youre using the light intermittently rather than
keeping it on uninterrupted, you can turn the set-
ting up gradually brighter, and the 12 included LED
lights will give you a bright 160 lumens of power on
the highest setting.
With a handy hook for strapping into your car, tent,
or from a nearby branch, the water-resistant light
will be invaluable for days during your excursion.
BULLET
www.bulletline.com
Model: Light-Up Carabiner
Key features: Lightweight, dual-purpose
MSRP: $3
Description:
You wouldnt leave home without a carabiner, a
way to hold your keys or a flashlight, but this handy
aluminum device gives you all three at once. The
strap and key ring keep your keys nearby, while the
carabiner can hold a variety of items, from keeping
a knife on your belt to holding your gloves.
The light isnt quite powerful enough to illuminate
your entire campsite, but it will offer you an oppor-
tunity to see where you left your glasses or whether
the noise youre hearing is a snake, so pop the
light-up carabiner onto your pack the next time
youre on the trail.
COGHLANS
www.coghlans.com
Model: Micro Lantern
Key features: Lightweight, compact, bright
MSRP: $4-6
Description:
If youre one of the many survivalists who pur-
chases the Micro Lantern as a backup light
source for your adventures, you might find, like oth-
ers do, that it serves just as beautifully as a primary
light source. Although its small and its advertised
with only a 6.5-foot diameter of illumination, it will
light up your tent or car beautifully.
The light has a flashing mode for emergencies or a
steady light if you want a constant stream of illumi-
nation, and also has a handy hook so you can perch
it from just about anywhere.
The light has a
flashing mode for
emergencies or a
steady light if you
want a constant
stream of
illumination
4
5
6
buyers
Guide LIGHTS
6
$4-6
COUGHLANS
4
$39.95
LL BEAN
5
$3
BULLET

BRITE STRIKE
www.brite-strike.com
Model: EPLI
Key features: Slim, lightweight, bright light
MSRP: $80
Description:
Going straight from an office to an outdoor adven-
ture? The EPLI (Executive Precision Lighting Instru-
ment) goes with you, featuring a sleek black air-
craft aluminum shell and a graphite anodized finish
to fit in perfectly with your executive look. Inside,
however, is a powerful 220-lumen beam that will
brighten up any trail at night.
In addition, the light features a 220-lumen strobe to
distract and disorient any attackershuman, ani-
mal or otherwisethat you might encounter on
your travels. Toss an EPLI into your gear kit or sim-
ply keep it in your pocket for all of your lighting
needs.
LL BEAN
www.llbean.com
Model: Trailblazer XR Headlamp
Key features: Lightweight, bright light, hands-free
MSRP: $39.95
Description:
Any nighttime trail can become visible if you have
the right light source, and the Trailblazer XR Head-
lamp gives you 100 lumens of light in a long-range
beam that can span more than 150 feet, giving you
a clear vision of everything from whats on the
ground to whats up in the tree above you.
Looking for night vision? Consider switching on the
three red LEDs, which can be turned on and off
even if youre using thick gloves; an excellent fea-
ture when you need to see in the dead of winter.
With a long life of 200 hours on just three AAA bat-
teries, this headlamp will keep you seeing the field
in front of you as you use your hands for more
important purposes, from fishing to gathering fire-
wood.
COGHLANS
www.coghlans.com
Model: Candle Lantern
Key features: Runs on candlelight,
compact, lightweight
MSRP: $3.50
Description:
No electricity, no batteries, no sunlight? No prob-
lem! Light up your campsite the old-fashioned
way by candlelight. Pop a tea light into the Cogh-
lans candle lantern, hang the lantern or set it on
your picnic table, and youve got a steady light
source that will burn brightly for up to five hours
straight.
The lantern is compact, at less than 4 inches in
height and weighing only 3 ounces, so you can
pack several of them, along with a few bags of tea
lights, for a long journey. These lanterns will not
only dress up your site thanks to their brass finish,
but theyll allow you to see clearly during those long
winter evenings.
Pop a tea light into
the Coghlans candle
lantern, hang the
lantern or set it on
your picnic table, and
youve got a steady
light source
8
9
7
8
$39.95
LL BEAN
7 BRI
9
$3.50
COUGHLANS
51

52
CONCEPT SOLAR LIGHTS
www.conceptsolarlights.com
Model: SL-300 Bollard Light
Key features: Solar, lightweight,
wide coverage area
MSRP: $159
Description:
If youve bugged out for an extended period, you
may want to find a way to illuminate your new out-
door home on a semi-permanent basis. Set up a
few of the SL-300 Bollard lights to outline your
campsite, and youll have light coverage all night
without having to use electricity or batteries.
The Bollard light runs on solar energy, so during
the day it will soak up the rays, and then it will cast
light on your area for up to 11 hours, with each light
providing illumination for a mighty 64-foot range.
Keep it switched to auto-on for the light to
brighten up as soon as the sun goes down, or
manually turn it on as you need it.
BLACK DIAMOND
www.blackdiamondequipment.com
Model: Apollo Lantern
Key features: Bright lights, built-in stand,
sturdy handle
MSRP: $45-55
Description:
If you want a light that will brighten your campsite
while looking sleek and almost futuristic, the Apollo
Lantern is for you. Offering 80 lumens of ambient
light, it can help you cook your dinner or prepare
your firewood no matter how dark it gets outside.
The fold-down legs are one of the best features of
this bright light, which give you a sturdy way to
keep it in place, while also extending your light cov-
erage by keeping it on a higher level. In addition, a
collapsible handle lets you carry it wherever your
survival needs take you.
THE STRAIGHT SCOOP ON
RECHARGEABLE BATTERIES
Most survivalists will agree that rechargeable bat-
teries can ultimately save you a bundle, allowing
you to buy them just once, and then recharge
them over and over again so you can reuse them
indefinitely. But keep in mind that if youre hitting
the road, you may not have many places where
you can stop and recharge your batteries, since
electricity may be scarce. Your best bet is to bring
a steady supply of disposable batteries, or rely on
solar or candle light if you plan to be away from
electricity for an extended period of time.
DOUBLE-CHECK SLIDING POWER SWITCHES
When shopping for flashlights, its a good idea to
check for a light that has a push-button on/off
switch or a sturdy sliding power switch. The rea-
son? Switches that slide to the on position eas-
ily tend to light up while in your pack if youre just
hiking along, draining your battery power without
you even realizing it. Make sure your light is defi-
nitely off before you head out on a trek.
WATCH FOR DEW
If your flashlight isnt water-resistant, make sure
you pack it away before you hit the sack at night.
Survivalists have been known to wake up and find
that their flashlights are covered with so much
dew that theyre soaking wet, and that they often
no longer work properly.
buyers
Guide LIGHTS
10
11
$159
CONCEPT
SOLAR
LIGHTS
10
$45-55
BLACK DIAMOND 11
COURTESY BLACK DIAMOND EQUIPMENT





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54
when I got the
opportunity to attend
a survival camp to
write about the
adventure, I was both
terrified and excited.
Erin Hatfield

55
IM MACWELCH SET
US LOOSE WITH A
10-MINUTE LIMIT TO
GET A SMALL FIRE
GOING, ARMED
WITH JUST OUR LIGHTERS
AND ANYTHING ELSE WE
HAD ON OUR PERSON.
My fellow students and I gathered dry
leaves, pine needles and small twigs and
set about constructing some of the sad-
dest little piles of forest detritus that I
had ever seen.
The recent rains from Hurricane Sandy
left the area a bit damp, so adequately dry
materials were very difficult to come by.
As MacWelch pointed out, the more you
need fire, primarily in damp, cold condi-
tions, the harder it is to make. We each
learned that lesson in class.
I tried (and failed) several times to get
my fire going, even borrowing some lip
balm from a fellow student that I applied
to a few leaves and tissues to get the fire
started. Despite being armed with little
tricks like this, my fire quickly died.
And that was my introduction to sur-
vival experts Tim MacWelchs Advanced
Survival Training school. As you may have
inferred, Im not the outdoorsy type.
T
SURVIVING
A SURVIVAL
CAMP
A Non-Outdoorsy TYPE Gets a Crash course
in Fire, Gear and Bug-out Bags
By Erin Hatfield
ERIN STARTS
HER OWN FIRE:
After several unsuccessful
attempts, the author starts
a fire thanks to MacWelchs
guidance and a little help
from a fuel packet.
MacWelch
demonstrates the
proper method for
splitting the layers
of dogbane into
useable fibers to
create a sturdy
rope.

56
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Dead, dry leaves:
Look for dead
leaves that can
easily be crumbled
in your hands.
piece should help you meet a pri-
ority of survival shelter, water,
fire, signaling, first aid and food.
And then it was time for the
hands-on training.
CMON BABY,
LIGHT MY
FIRE
Our first hands-on task of
the day was starting a fire,
which I thought would be rela-
tively easy considering we were
each armed with a lighter. I was
wrong.
A lighter, by the way, is one
of MacWelchs top pieces of sur-
vival gear. It provides a light
source, heat and a signaling bea-
con, all in a handy mobile carry-
ing case. And if you have better
tinder-gathering skills than I do, a
quick and easy way to start a
roaring fire.
Matches, on the other hand,
can be a bit problematic. Regu-
lar match heads contain phos-
phorous, which washes out if
the match happens to get wet.
Contrary to popular belief, you
cannot strike a match just any-
where; strike pads contain
chemicals needed to create a
reaction that lights the match.
The same holds true for water-
proof and lifeboat matches.
While a match is better than
having to rely on friction meth-
ods for starting fires, a lighter
should be at the top of the sup-
ply list for any survival kit.
MacWelch led us through
the area, helping us identify pos-
sible tinder and materials for
our fires. He also provided tips
on constructing our fire bun-
dles start with light, fluffy tin-
der materials and build the fire
structure with small twigs in a
teepee shape so the fire can
climb.
Seeing the difficulty we were
having in getting our fires going,
MacWelch then introduced us to
a number of fire starters. These
included fire paste, tinder cubes
and packets of fire gel. Each
method provides fuel for a faster
means of lighting a fire. As I dis-
covered, having a little help in the
starting department, especially
when dealing with damp materi-
als, can mean the difference
between a roaring fire and smok-
ing twigs.
A SURVIVAL
KIT FOR
EVERY
SITUATION
Once I had tried my hand at
fire-starting, I was eager to learn
about other survival gear.
MacWelch reviewed the various
types of survival kits keychain,
necklace, knife, pocket, metal
water bottle and vehicle which
can only be effective if you keep
them on your person or in your
vehicle. Many of these kits are
available commercially at outdoor
supply stores, but you can also
make your own. The size of each
dictates how much gear it can
contain, but common items
include a cutting tool, a fire
source, a light source, cord or
rope, a whistle for signaling and
plastic bags for water storage.
MacWelch stressed the
importance of including a means
Fibrous tree bark:
Trees such as the tulip
poplar have bark that
can be stripped and
shredded to create
fluffy fibers.
MACWELCHS TOP FIVE NATURAL TINDERS
When in an emergency situation, look to your surroundings to gather tinder needed to get a fire started.
In the wilderness, MacWelch suggests the following:
Dead (brown) pine needles:
Brown pine needles that
have fallen to the ground not
only burn well, they also
contain sap that can provide
fuel for small fires.
FIRE WITH STONE:
Here, MacWelch demonstrates
how to start a fire with a steel
striker and a rock. Several
other steel strikers are shown.
1 2
3
CAMPING TWICE
Ive been camping exactly twice in my
life, and both times were in campgrounds
with bathroom facilities. So, when I got
the opportunity to attend a survival camp
to write about the adventure, I was both
terrified (ticks!) and excited (fire!). The
experience left me with a new respect for
those who are well-prepared for impend-
ing disasters and a sense of empowerment
that Im a small step closer to joining their
ranks.
I attended MacWelchs school
(http://www.advancedsurvivaltraining.com/)
in northern Virginia. MacWelch offers a
wide range of courses on topics ranging
from survival basics to edible plants to
week-long primitive and wilderness survival
camps. My particular class focused on sur-
vival gear and bug-out bags, and as I quickly
discovered, I had a lot to learn about both.
The overarching theme of the course
was to have adequate gear in your posses-
sion and be able to use it effectively.
MacWelch began with an overview of sur-
vival gear, including every day carry, first aid
kits, survival kits, get home bags and bug-out
bags. Regardless of the type of gear, every

57

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Dead, dry grass:
Much like pine
needles, dry grass
burns easily and
can be in ready
supply.
Weed tops:
Dont overlook weed tops such
as Queen Annes lace and gold-
enrod, as they and other dried
vegetation can help increase
the volume of the tinder packet.
Regardless of the type of gear, every
piece should help you meet a priority of
survivalshelter, water, fire, signaling,
first aid and food.
DRESS FOR
SURVIVAL SUCCESS
As I sat shivering in the cool fall air,
Tim MacWelch explained how clothing
choices can play into a persons odds of
survival. I had unknowingly failed a very
basic test of cooler weather survival by
wearing cotton jeans and a T-shirt next
to my skin. Cotton is a poor insulator, so
its best worn in hot, humid climates
such as jungles where boiling your
clothes might be necessary.
Instead, MacWelch cited the benefits
of wool and synthetic materials for their
insulative properties. Wool is a hollow
fiber, which traps air that is warmed by
our body heat or the environment, and it
retains heat even when the material is
wet. The same holds true for synthetic
fabrics such as polypropylene, nylon and
rayon. Above all, dressing in layers is
the key to cold weather survival, includ-
ing outer layers that are both breathable
and waterproof. To add additional insu-
lation, you can even stuff your clothes
with pine needles, leaves or balled-up
newspaper in urban settings.
Color is also an important considera-
tion. While you may want to blend in with
your surroundings, MacWelch advises
that people have at least one item of
brightly colored clothing to use when sig-
naling for help and to aid with visibility in
an emergency rescue situation.
FUEL ON FIRE:
In many instances, you can find items with
dual purposes that are part of your everyday
carry gear. Here, the author uses lip balm as
fuel on a dead leaf to start a fire.
DOGBANE:
A variety of supplies found in nature can
serve as excellent sources of tinder to start
your fire. Seed pods from the dogbane tree
can be opened to reveal soft, fluffy fire
making material.
of purifying water in each survival
kit. If you get caught in an emer-
gency situation, odds are that you
will not have access to clean water.
Portable water filters, purification
tablets (which are also lightweight)
and even common bleach and
iodine (when used in the proper
proportions) can help transform
your water into a drinkable bever-
age. One of the most effective
means of purifying water is to boil it
for at least 10 minutes, which
requires a metal canister or
single-walled water bottle.
IGNITING
A SPARK
A bit later in the day, MacWelch
led us through another fire-starting
exercise using fire rods and, get this,
a battery. Earlier in the day, we had
tried our hand at spark igniters, often
CAN YOU SURVIVE ON
EVERYDAY CARRY ITEMS?
The term everyday carry refers to items
people carry with them in their pockets (or in
my case, a purse) every day. This includes
common items such as cell phones, key-
chains, lip balm, pocket knives and even pre-
scription glasses. Each of these can be trans-
formed into a tool during an emergency situa-
tion. For instance, tissues and other paper
items can serve as easy tinder for fires, and
petroleum-based products such as lip balm
are great accelerants for fires, as well.
4
5

58
CAMP
called fire rods or ferrocerium rods. These rods
throw off a great deal of sparks when struck with
a metal item such as the straight edge of a knife or
even a hard rock. But these sparks are useless if
they have no fuel to ignite.
We walked through the campsite to take
another look at materials we could use for tin-
der. One of my favorite tinder tricks that
MacWelch taught us was gathering the seed
pods from dogbane trees. These look a bit like
smooth vanilla pods, but when broken open,
contain fluffy seeds similar to dandelion puffs.
The seeds provided volume for the tinder
packet we were creating, which would enable
the fire to get much-needed air.
We had culled a nice collection of leaves, tree
bark, pine needles, grass and weed tops, which
MacWelch shaped into a small nest-like structure.
Then the fun began. I used one of the fire rods to
throw sparks into the tinder packet and it imme-
diately ignited.
Success!! The fluffy dry vegetation proved to
be the perfect receptacle for the sparks. There
was something extremely satisfying in knowing I
had created fire just using a bit of friction.
In one of my favorite demonstrations of the
day, MacWelch showed us how batteries with at
least a 3V charge even one from a cell phone
can provide the spark needed to start a fire. The
only caveat is that the process also requires very
fine-grit steel wool. The grit should start with a 0
and, according to MacWelch, can be found at
home improvement or woodworking stores.
I was skeptical that this would work, espe-
cially considering how many other fire-starting
means we had already covered. But MacWelch
channeled his inner MacGyver, striking the steel
wool to both the positive and negative connec-
tions on the battery. The resulting current was
enough to create sparks and ignite the steel
wool. I had to try this for myself, and it worked
like a charm for me, too.
BUG-OUT BAGS
Our class wound down with a discussion of
bug-out bags (BOBs), a supply kit containing
goods that would help you survive for about 72
hours with no guarantee of food or shelter.
BOBs can come in handy if youre forced to
evacuate due to a natural or manmade disaster
such as a hurricane or wildfire, respectively.
A rule of thumb when creating a BOB is to
keep it lightweight; you may have to be on the
move for the duration of the emergency situa-
tion, so gear that does not cause fatigue is
preferable. BOBs should include basic survival
gear and a few irreplaceable items such as a
thumb drive that includes a digital backup of
important documents (house deed, passport
numbers, family photos).
Many people keep fully stocked BOBs by their
front doors, in their vehicles or even in their
offices, as you never know when or where disas-
ter may strike. While I have never even thought
about creating a BOB, a fellow student admitted
to having one in her home. Based on the logic
behind being adequately prepared and having a
contingency plan for sudden disasters, I have
started looking into creating a BOB of my own.
NEW LOOK ON
THE OUTDOORS
My experience at survival camp was a great
adventure that left me wanting to learn more
about working my way through a possible emer-
gency situation.
It also provided much-needed (and appreci-
ated) information on the proper survival gear,
fire-starting techniques and BOBs. While I have
quite a long way to go to reach true survivalist
status, MacWelch provided a great foundation.
And I hope that my stock has risen among my
friends who might realize I would be an asset
during a disaster. And Im feeling a little more
outdoorsy, too.
TIM STARTS FIRE:
Here, MacWelch offers an example
of the type of fire formation youll
want to employ to get your first fire
going.
CLOTHES
Make The Right Choices
POOR CHOICE:
COLD CLIMATE
Cotton jeans and T-shirt
Cotton is a poor insulator,
so its best worn in hot,
humid climates
BEST CHOICE:
COLD CLIMATE
Wool and synthetic
materials because they
are insulative
Wool is a hollow fiber,
which traps air that is
warmed, and it retains
heat even when the
material is wet
The same holds true
for synthetic fabrics
DRESSING SMART
Dressing in layers is a
key to cold weather
Wear outer layers that
are both breathable
and waterproof
Pine needles add
additional insulation
Have at least one item
of brightly colored clothing
to use when signaling
for help

59
MUST-HAVE ITEMS FOR THE
BUG-OUT BAG
FIRE WITH CELL
PHONE and FIRE
STARTING ON
BATTERY:
MacWelch demonstrates
how to start a fire by
touching steel wool to a
cell phone battery and a
standard battery. Steel
wool rated 0, 00, 000 or
0000 along with a bat-
tery of 3 volts or higher
will give you a flame to
start a fire.
PACKING
BUGOUT BAG:
Tim MacWelch fills a
bug-out bag with the
essentials for survival,
and then straps a tent to
the bottom so he can
have a shelter at his
bug-out destination.
Prescription medications
Shelter items such as a small tent
and sleeping bag
Drinking water, as well as means
of purifying more water
High-calorie, no-cook food such
as protein bars and peanut butter
First aid supplies
Fire starting materials (lighter,
fire rod, matches)
Basic tools such as a knife,
rope and duct tape
Change of clothes for each person
Light source with extra batteries
Cash
OTHER IMPORTANT CONTENTS OF BOBS INCLUDE THE FOLLOWING:
T
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Learn How to:
Prevent a violent intrusion
Escape or hide from a shooter
Protect yourself and your family
Survive an Active Shooter attack
Improve security at work, school,
or place of worship
Are you prepared to ACT in the event of an
Active Shooter or Terrorist Attack?
Get your copy of the Active Shooter Survival DVD
Order now at info@actcert.com or call
1-888-4 actcert
1 - 8 8 8 - 4 2 2 - 8 2 3 7
The ACT survi val measures can be used by anyone, anyti me, anywhere.

S urv i va l
Kni v e s
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EDITORS CHOICE
GROHMANN
KNIVES
www.grohmannknives.com
Model: #4 survival knife
Overall: 10 5/16-inch
Blade: 5 1/2-inch
Steel: 4110 stainless steel
Handle: 4 13/16-inch rosewood
Suggested retail: $119
Knives For Food, Shelter And Transportation
BUSHCRAFT IS ANOTHER WORD FOR WILDERNESS AND
SURVIVAL SKILLS. INTEREST BEGAN IN PARTS OF THE UK
AND WAS CATAPULTED INTO POPULARITY WITH BOOKS
AND A TELEVISION SHOW BY SURVIVAL EXPERT RAY
MEARS. BUSHCRAFT EMPHASIZES UTILIZING THE NATURAL
SURROUNDINGS FOR FOOD, SHELTER AND, IN THE CASE OF
BUILDING YOUR OWN RAFT OR CANOE, TRANSPORTATION.
Camp knives are generally larger knives the knife you use when you need
to chop your way through some limbs before washing it off and start slicing
venison for dinner. Check them out.
60

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HELLE NORWAY
Model: Harding
Overall: 8.2 inches
Blade: 3.9 inches
Steel: Triple-laminated stainless steel
Handle: 4.3-inch stacked wood
Suggested retail: $129
Comments:
Scandi ground blade is carried in a
Scandinavian-style sheath with a keeper
flap for secure carry.
AS Helle Fabrikker
N-6982 Holmedal
Norwegen (Norway)
www.helle.no
(47) 57 73 35 00
MORA SWEDEN
Model: High Q
Overall: 8 3/8-inch
Blade: 3 5/8-inch
Steel: Carbon
Handle: 4 3/4-inch molded plastic with
rubber overlay
Suggested retail: $15
Comments:
Overall construction of the knife makes
it very lightweight.
Mora Sweden
Box 407, SE-792 27 MORA
info@moraofsweden.se
www.frosts.se
+46-250 59 50 00
SPYDERCO
Model: Bushcraft
Overall: 8 3/4-inch
Blade: 4-inch
Steel: O1
Handle: 4 3/4-inch black G10
Suggested retail: $299.99
Comments:
The universal sheath has multiple eyelets
for lashing or you can use the belt loop for
belt carry.
Spyderco
820 Spyderco Way
Golden, CO
80403-8053
www.spyderco.com
800-525-7770
GROHMANN KNIVES
Model: #4 survival knife
Overall: 10 5/16-inch
Blade: 5 1/2-inch
Steel: 4110 stainless steel
Handle: 4 13/16-inch rosewood
Suggested retail: $119
Comment: Grohmann also provides a
version of this model with a gut hook.
1
2
3
4
buyer s
Guide
KNIVES
2
$15
MORA SWEDEN
B
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Grohmann Knives
P.O. Box 40
116 Water St.
Pictou
Nova Scotia, Canada
B0K 1H0
http://www.grohmannkni
ves.com/index2.html
1-888-7 knives
1
$129
HELLE NORWAY
3
$299.99
SPYDERCO
4
$119
GROHMANN KNIVES

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buyer s
Guide
KNIVES
KERSHAW CAMP 10
Overall: 16 inches
Blade: 10 inches
Steel: Carbon
Handle: Rubber over full tang
Weight: 1-pound, 10-ounces
Suggested retail: $64.95
Comment: Kershaw almost makes two
big brothers to the Camp 10, the 14 and
18. Blade shapes are different, though.
Kershaw Knives
KAI USA Ltd.
18600 S.W. Teton Ave.
Tualatin, OR 97062
www.kershawknives.com
503-682-1966
ESEE JUNGLAS
Overall: 16 1/2 inches
Blade: 10 inches
Steel: 1095 powder coated
Handle: Canvas Micarta
Weight: 22 1/2 ounces
Suggested retail: $201
Comment:
Hammer pommel Kydex
sheath is optional.
ESEE Knives
TransEquatorial Solutions, Inc.
P.O. Box 99
Gallant, AL 35972
www.eseeknives.com
865-933-8436
GERBER GATOR
PRO MACHETE
Overall: 16.5 inches
Blade: 10.5 inches
Steel: High carbon
Handle: Gator grip (Kraton)
Weight: 17.9 inches
Suggested retail: $68.75
Comment:
Modern version of the famous WWII
Victor Tool Co. survival machete.
Gerber Legendary Blades
14200 SW 72nd Ave.
Portland, OR 97224
www.gerbergear.com
800-950-6161
GERBER/BEAR
GRYLLS SURVIVAL
PARANG MACHETE
Overall: 19.5 inches
Blade: 13.5 inches
Weight: 19.4 ounces
Suggested retail: $55
5
6
7
8
Comment:
Lanyard cord included for
an enhanced grip.
Gerber Legendary Blades
14200 S.W. 72nd Ave.
Portland, OR 97224
www.gerbergear.com
800-950-6161
BECKER KNIFE &
TOOL COMBAT
UTILITY KNIFE
Model: BK7
Overall: 12 3/4 inches
Blade: 7 inches
Steel: 1095 epoxy powder coating
Handle: Grivory or Micarta
Weight: 12.9 ounces
Suggested retail: $120
Comment:
Extreme heavy duty
construction - .188 inches thick.
KA-BAR Knives, Inc.
200 Homer St.
Olean, NY 14760
www.kabar.com
716-372-5952
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$68.75
GERBER
GATOR
PRO
MACHETE
8
$55
GERBER/BEAR GRYLLS
SURVIVAL PARANG MACHETE
5
$64.95
KERSHAW CAMP 10
6
$201
ESEE JUNGLAS
9
$120
BECKER KNIFE

General
Preparedness
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THESE TIPS WILL KEEP YOU SAFE AND READY
Whether its using mundane items to save your life, compiling everything you
need well ahead of that quake or tornado or making a game plan for heating your
house when the power is out, youll find it in the following section.
All it takes is some planning.
63
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In This Section
40 Creative Survival Uses
for Four Ordinary Items
On-the-Go Medical Care
Family Survival Checklist
Emergency Prep for Pets
Nine Ways Smartphones
Can Help in an Emergency
How To Warm Your House
When the Power Is Out
43 Items You Should Have
in Your Car

TUFF HAPPENS.
WHETHER YOU SIMPLY
FORGOT SOME NECES-
SARY ITEMS FOR YOUR
HIKING OR CAMPING TRIP,
OR MOTHER NATURE HAS DECIDED
TO TURN YOUR WORLD UPSIDE
DOWN, YOU CAN SURVIVE AND
THRIVE WITH A LITTLE INGENUITY
AND CREATIVITY FROM SOME OF
THE MOST MUNDANE ITEMS YOU
CAN IMAGINE.
Anything has potential to help in a pinch
even a piece of gum and its wrapper, says Tim
MacWelch, owner and operator of Advanced
Survival Training, a wilderness survival school.
Its beneficial to know alternative uses for a few
items you might already have in your gear, as
they can help you escape a sticky situation.
S
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Many people immediately think
of what theyll do for food, but
water is much more important
for long-term survival.
Tim MacWelch, of Advanced Survival Training
ANYTHING
BUT MUNDANE
Creative Survival
Uses For Four
Ordinary Items
A water bottle, a plastic bag, rope and a tarp can all be used for a number
of life-saving purposes.
By Erin Hatfield

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WATER
BOTTLES
Whether plastic or metal, water
bottles are common supplies for
any outdoor activity. These
seemingly simple items can help
ensure you make it through a
tough ordeal in the wild.
1 Store Water
When faced with a survival
emergency, identifying a water
source should be a first priority, as
should determining the best way to
transport and store it in camp.
Many people immediately think
of what theyll do for food, but water
is much more important for long-
term survival, MacWelch says.
2 Water Sanitation
Not only are metal water bottles
better for the environment, they
provide a more effective means of
disinfecting water. MacWelch recom-
mends boiling water in a metal bottle
for about 10 minutes before consum-
ing rather than relying on solar
disinfection, which uses the suns
UV rays to kill germs.
3 Dry Storage
Wide-mouth bottles can be used
to store smaller items such as
matches or fish hooks, provided the
inside is dry.
4 Funnel
The top half of a plastic water
bottle makes an ideal funnel. Just cut
off the top of the bottle.
5 Fish Trap
Remove the top of a plastic
bottle, and invert it in the lower half
to make a trap for smaller fish such
as minnows that can be used as bait
for larger fish.
6 Flotation Device
Large empty plastic bottles are
highly buoyant.
7 Shovel
When cut at an angle, the top of
a plastic water bottle, 2-liter
or gallon jug can serve as an
improvised shovel.
8 Bug Trap
If your campsite has bug prob-
lems, you can cut the top off of a
2-liter or gallon bottle, turn it
inside out and place it back onto
the bottom. Put an attractant (such
as a cut apple or jelly) in the bot-
tom of the bottle. The bugs will fly
in through the spout, but they
cant get back out.
9 Planter
Interested in growing plants as
part of your survival strategy? You
can remove the bottom of a 2-liter
soda bottle and plant flowers in it.
Replace the top of the bottle to
provide humidity for your seedlings.
10 Twine
Using sharp scissors, cut a
plastic jug in a spiral motion to
create a long string of plastic.
You can use it to make a strong
twine material.
FIVE USES FOR A STICK
NOT ALL SURVIVAL MATERIALS ARE
MAN-MADE. YOU CAN USE A STURDY STICK
FOR MANY PURPOSES, INCLUDING THE
FOLLOWING FIVE:
1. Stake Set up your shelter with stakes
made of natural sticks, or use the stake to
tie up your dogs leash at a campsite.
2. Splint Stabilize injuries with a straight
stick, tied with any materials you have on-
hand.
3. Tepee Native Americans did it and so
can you. Gather sticks in a tepee formation
to make a frame, and wrap a tarp around
them to provide a shelter for your family.
4. Fishing Pole Tie your line and some
bait to a stick to create a makeshift fishing
pole.
5. Spear Use your knife to sharpen the
end of a stick to make a spear. You can
catch small game and fish with these
weapons.
DUCT TAPE
AND PARACORD
Most survivalists wouldnt
pack up a bug-out bag without
adding both duct tape and paracord.
These materials both have hundreds of
uses. Duct tape can patch everything
from a kayak hole to a tent tear, while
paracord can be your go-to fishing line or
your rappelling rope, among other uses.
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COMMON
1. Lighter Fire is the
most difficult survival ele-
ment to create from
scratch, especially if youre
injured or weak. Regard-
less of how busted up you
might be, with a working
thumb and a lighter, you
have means of creating fire
and a light source.
1 Water Transport
You can collect water from
a nearby lake or stream, as well
as precipitation, to use as
drinking water.
2 Dry Storage
Bags offer protection from
the elements for key items such
as cell phones, matches and
changes of clothing.
3 Sleeping Bag
Larger trash bags can be
stuffed with leaves or pine nee-
dles to offer insulation. Make
sure not to put your head inside
the bag.
4 Solar Panel
If youre in a snowy
environment, use a black
trash bag to accelerate the
snow-melting process for
drinking water.
Eating snow for hydration
can lead to hypothermia, says
MacWelch. The amount of
snow you would need to eat to
stay properly hydrated dramati-
cally lowers body temperature,
so you should always be sure to
melt snow before consuming it.
5 Wound Protection
Plastic offers a great barrier
for preventing dirt and other
debris from entering an open
wound.
6 Poncho
Staying dry in the wild is a
priority, and with minimal
alterations, a large trash bag can
easily be turned into a poncho.
7 Boots/Shoe Covering
Smaller items such as
grocery bags or zip-top bags
can slip over shoes to provide
protection from mud, water,
and snow.
8 Lashing Material
Bags ripped into strips can
be used to lash shelter elements
or other materials together.
9 Signaling Panel
Orange or other brightly
colored bags make ideal signaling
panels for potential rescuers.
10 Shelter
Place several trash bags over
a branch to create a makeshift
shelter or a rain fly for your tent.
Its beneficial to know alternative
uses for a few items as they can
help you escape a sticky
situation. Tim MacWelch
2. Water Container
A water bottle, preferably
metal, will enable you to trans-
fer and store water in camp. To
ensure water from local water-
ways is safe to drink, boil it in a
metal container for about 10
minutes prior to drinking. In a
pinch, even a beer or soda can
will work.
HEAD TO THE WEB
To learn more about MacWelchs survival training,
visit www.advancedsurvivaltraining.com.
PLASTIC BAGS
When you go camping or hiking, chances are you have a
plastic bag of some sort among your gear, whether a grocery
bag, zip-top plastic bag or trash bag. Aside from transporting
supplies or garbage, plastic bags can be used for the following
purposes:
2
TIMS TOP FIVE SURVIVAL MUST-HAVES
While thinking creatively about the items you might already have in your pack can lead to
innovative, life-saving uses, it also helps to be prepared. Survival expert Tim MacWelch shares
his top five survival pack must-haves.
3. Knife
A multi-tool is
nice to have, but
a simple knife or
pocketknife is
hard to replace. It
can be used to
cut, carve, chop,
butcher game
and sharpen
sticks for tools.

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TARP
Youll find numerous
emergency and non-emergency
uses for tarps in any survival
situation, including the following:
1 Shelter
Securing protection from the
sun, wind and rain should be the
top priority whenever youre in the
wilderness, says MacWelch. A tarp
can be draped over a tree branch
to provide you with a quick tent.
2 Ground Covering
Protect yourself from ground
moisture and even out the terrain
by spreading a tarp on the ground.
3 Sleeping Bag
Much like a large plastic bag,
tarps can be used as a sleeping bag.
Stuff a rolled-up tarp with leaves
and pine needles to create
insulation in colder temperatures.
4 Pouch
Tarps provide a great deal of
flexibility when creating pouches
or other means to carry materials
such as water, tinder or foraged
food.
5 Precipitation Collection
Set up a tarp to collect rain or
snow that can be used as drinking
or cooking water.
6 Rope
If you dont have a rope in your
gear, cutting up and tying together
strips of a tarp make for an effective
alternative.
7 Rain Cover
Protect fire wood and tinder
from rain or snow, or in a pinch,
use a tarp as a personal poncho.
8 Stretcher
Tarps can handle a much heavier
load than plastic bags, making them
great improvised stretchers for injured
or weak members of your party.
9 Table Cloth
You may not have access to a
picnic table in your survival situation,
but if you have a tarp, you can make
any area safe for dining. Stretch out
your tarp on a tree stump or the
ground so you can place your food
on top of it.
10 Cool Air Fan
You wont have an electric fan
at your campsite, but you can angle
a tarp in the right way to direct
cool breezes toward you, keeping
your body temperature lower in
the summer.
ROPE
Most survivalists know that rope
is a valuable tool to have on
hand in the great outdoors.
Depending on the materials and
thickness of the rope, it has
multiple uses that can help
increase your odds of survival.
1 Rappelling Gear
If you get stuck at the top of a
steep cliff, rope is necessary to rap-
pel to lower ground.
2 Lashing Material
If you have rope in your bag, its
most likely intended use is to help
with setting up shelter. Rope can
also be used to tie materials
together for a flotation device or
makeshift raft if youre
on a waterway.
3 Game Snares
Rig a simple snare using rope to
trap small animals for food.
4 Archery Bow
With a small flexible tree
branch and some rope, you can
make an archery bow to hunt game.
5 Fire Creation
Use a piece of twine or other
fine-gauge rope to create a bow and
drill to start a fire using the friction
method. Plus, you can use fibers
from the rope as tinder.
6 Splint
Create a splint to immobilize
an injured limb using rope and
sturdy twigs.
7 Bola
Bolas are weapons consisting
of stones tied together with rope
and are great tools for catching
large animals and birds.
8 Trip Wire
Use a rope to set up a warning
system to alert you when large ani-
mals such as bears enter your camp.
9 Fishing Line
Attach hooks or even an
unbent paper clip to an unraveled
length of rope used as fishing line.
10 Clothing
A length of rope can double as a
belt, suspenders or even shoelaces.
3
4. Signal Whistle
Signaling for help is an
under-recognized element of
survival; its your ticket
home. Pack a loud whistle
such a referees whistle from
a sporting goods store. A
whistle can be used day or
night, hot or cold, in any
location, to alert rescuers of
your whereabouts.
6. BONUS: Light
Source A flashlight
or headlamp with a
very long battery life
provides both task
lighting and a signal-
ing device during
emergency situations.
Your best betan LED
head lamp that frees
both hands.
5. First Aid Kit
Often an injury is
the catalyst for a
survival scenario.
Have a well-
equipped first aid
kit in your gear to
better treat med-
ical emergencies
both big and
small.
4

URPHYS LAW
STATES THAT IF
ANYTHING CAN GO
WRONG, IT WILL.
SO THATS WHY YOU MUST
BE PREPARED. PACKING YOUR
OWN FIRST AID KIT BEFORE
HITTING THE TRAIL
WHETHER YOURE FLEEING A
DISASTER OR GOING ON A
WINTER ADVENTUREIS
IMPERATIVE.
But not every malady can be
anticipated, so youll require a basic
knowledge of first aid before you head
out on your adventure. The following
expert tips can offer guidance to keep
you healthy on your trek.
FIGHTING BACTERIA
WITH HONEY
You may have adhesive strips in your survival medical kit,
but if someone gets a cut, you also want to keep it sanitary
so the patient doesnt get an infection. In these cases, your
first step will be to rinse the cut with water.
Whatever youre using for drinking water will work to
rinse out the cut, says Rod Brouhard, a paramedic, the topic
guide for About.coms First Aid page and an author on disas-
ter preparedness. Once youve rinsed it, you should apply
an antiseptic. If you didnt bring one along, you can use nat-
ural honey, which can do double-duty as an anti-bacterial.
Any form of honey will work, Brouhard says, just be sure
not to use it on children under one year of age, as its inad-
visable for them to ingest honey.
HYPOTHERMIA
Understanding the symptoms of hypothermia can be
complicated especially if you consider the fact that if youve
ever uncontrollably shivered from the cold, youve already
had it.
The symptoms of hypothermia range from mild to
severe, Brouhard says. Mild is when you cant stop
shivering, so youre already a little hypothermic once you
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One sign of moderate
hypothermia is that
you stop shivering.
Rod Brouhard, paramedic and
disaster preparedness author
DID YOU KNOW?
Cold weather dehydration can greatly increase
your chance of suffering from other issues. The
more dehydrated you are, the more prone you are to
hypothermia and frostbite. You have to have fluid in
the body to keep the blood flowing properly.
ON-THE-GO
MEDICAL CARE
Recognize the Symptoms of these Problems and Learn
How to Treat Them
By Torrey Kim
M
Pure honey can serve
as an antiseptic.
When your temperature drops
below 95, you have hypothermia.
Winter is beautiful, but there are
dangers in that beauty, including
dehydration and hypothermia.
SMART CAMPING
Fight The Elements Before
They Strike
When choosing a good win-
ter campsite, your first instinct
might be to look for a sunny
area, which is typically a good
ideabut you should also eval-
uate the signs of frost.
Look around to determine
which areas dont have frost on
them, paramedic Rod
Brouhard says. Thats where
youll want to build your camp-
site, because you know it
doesnt get as cold.

As soon as your body temperature falls below
95 F, you are classified as being hypothermic.
The next step of hypothermia moderate is
rather dangerous due to the fact that it often fea-
tures a lack of symptoms. One sign of moderate
hypothermia is that you stop shivering, Brouhard
says. Your body has decided that rather than
creating heat by burning fuel to try and warm up
(shivering) you instead stop using fuel and begin
to conserve it.
Therefore, if you havent done anything to get
warmer, but your body suddenly stops shivering,
you might have entered a more damaging stage of
hypothermia. Once a person enters severe
hypothermia, its difficult to use cognitive abilities,
after which confusion and fatigue set in.
Fine motor skills will be greatly diminished,
and even walking will be difficult in this stage,
Brouhard says.
Before you get to this stage, however, be sure
to take steps that will bring your body temperature
back up to a safe level. As soon as you begin to
shiver, thats the time to act. Make a fire, add
layers of clothing and get out of the exposure,
Brouhard adds.
DEHYDRATION
When you hear the word dehydration, you
may picture a person crawling through the desert
under the heat of the August sun, but the reality is
that you can dehydrate any time of year, no matter
what the temperature. In fact, cold weather
dehydration can greatly increase your chance
of suffering from other issues.
The more dehydrated you are, the more prone
you are to both hypothermia and frostbite,
Brouhard says. You have to have fluid in the body
to keep the blood flowing properly.
It isnt as easy to realize that youre sweating in
the winter, because your layers of clothing typically
absorb the sweat before you feel it, and cool breezes
evaporate the perspiration from your face. In fact, he
says, its possible to get heatstroke when out in the
cold.
People bundle up really tightly, but then they do
activities and get excited, and they can develop heat-
stroke, which is simply dehydration with an elevated
core temperature, Brouhard notes. No matter
what the temperature, make sure you drink plenty
of water or sports drink during your winter travels.
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FACTSOF
HYPOTHERMIA
MILD
Mild hypothermia is when
you cant stop shivering.
95 DEGREES
When your body
temperature falls below
this temperature, you are
classified as being
hypothermic.
SIGNS OF
MODERATE
HYPOTHERMIA
This is rather dangerous
due to the fact that it often
features a lack of symp-
toms, but one sign is that
you stop shivering.
SEVERE SIGNS
In this stage, its difficult
to use cognitive abilities,
after which confusion and
fatigue set in. Fine motor
skills will be greatly dimin-
ished, and even walking
will be difficult in this
stage.
BEFORE IT
GETS SEVERE
Before you get to this stage,
however, be sure to take
steps that will bring your
body temperature back up
to a safe level. As soon as
you begin to shiver, thats
the time to act.
FIGHT
BACK
Make a fire,
add layers of
clothing and
get out of the
exposure.
When the feeling of hypothermia begins to set
in, many people think its a good idea to increase
their activity level to warm up their core body tem-
perature, but that isnt a complete cure, says para-
medic Rod Brouhard.
Thats only sustainable for a while because you
have to rest eventually, he says. Therefore, if you
know youll be stuck in the cold weather for a long
period of time, youre better off using that energy to
start a fire and add layers to your clothing.
CONSIDER THESE
NATURAL REMEDIES
Your outdoor maladies will be
quelled quickly if you know a few
cures that you can find in nature.
Consider these tips from James Kel-
lar, founder and head instructor at
the Northeast Ohio Primitive Living
and Wilderness School:
You can use moss as a bandage,
Kellar says. Or try yarrow, a plant
related to the chrysanthemum.
Yarrow will actually clot the
wound, Kellar says. The wound
will have to be kept clean and
have new natural bandages
applied a couple times daily.
In cases of a sprain, you can
make a splint out of branches
and wrap it with natural cordage,
Kellar adds. If the person needs
mobility help, they can create
makeshift crutches to help them
move.
Have a headache? Consider
herbal cures. You can use willow
or aspen bark tea, which act as
natural aspirins, he suggests.
For more information on natural
medicines, visit Kellars Website at
www.medicinescout.com.
DOES PHYSICAL ACTIVITY STOP HYPOTHERMIA?
The more dehydrated you are, the more prone you
are to both hypothermia and frostbite. Rod Brouhard
When on a trek, be
sure to carry a first
aid kit.

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Everything You Need To Know for Your 14-Day Plan
NPREDICTABLE. THATS WHAT DISASTERS ARE. SO
WHEN YOURE OUT IN THE WILDERNESS ON YOUR
OWN OR WITH YOUR FAMILY AND A DISASTER
STRIKESAN EARTHQUAKE, FLOOD OR TORNADO
ITS ESSENTIAL THAT YOURE PREPARED. KEEP THESE CRUCIAL
SAFETY TIPS FROM A SURVIVAL EXPERT IN MIND WHEN
STAYING IN THE SAME LOCATION (BARRING ANY SAFETY
CONCERNS) THEY COULD VERY WELL SAVE YOUR LIFE.
U
FAMILY SURVIV
1.
Water
Once youre safe and
secure, the number one
priority for a family in a dis-
aster is water. Its advisable
to shelter in place unless
its hazardous. Water is
definitely going to be the
number one precious com-
modity thats going to go
quickly, says Jerry Ward,
owner and operator at
Ozark Mountain Prepared-
ness, an outdoor wilder-
ness survival school based
in Berryville, Arkansas.
The rule of thumb I rec-
ommend is 3 gallons per
person, per day, minimum.
Thats to cover drinking,
cooking, washing and
hygiene. He advises to
have some sort of water
storage available plastic
bottles from big box stores
and 40-gallon plastic barrels
are perfect.
2.
Shelter
Barring any safety con-
cerns or forced evacuation,
its ideal for a family to stay
in place and seek refuge in
their home. Its a whole
lot easier and more com-
fortable for a family if
theyre already established
in their home, Ward says.
Theyve got all their stuff
at home. This is especially
important if they have kids.
Plus, if youre at the house,
youve got all the stuff
youve stockpiled. Youll
want to have sufficient
clothing on hand based on
the season, as well as a
heating source, such as a
wood stove; these are cru-
cial to ensuring your body
temperature stays at the
recommend 98.6 F.
3.
Medical Kit
Unexpected disasters
can lead to mechanical and
soft tissue injuries. Thats
why its essential to have a
good quality medical kit on
hand. Ward suggests
assembling your own based
on family needs. If you lack
the knowledge, dont fret,
there are several compa-
nies that make kits specifi-
cally for the wilderness.
If youre assembling
your own medical kit,
Ward recommends includ-
ing at a bare minimum the
following items: quality
tweezers, EMT shears, cling
wrap (to keep wounds
clean and create tension), a
quality space blanket and
over-the-counter medica-
tions.
Its also doesnt hurt to
have some professional-
grade medical training. You
might not always have a
medical kit on hand, so you
might need to improvise.
4.
Protection
When a disaster strikes,
there are plenty of good
Samaritans who will offer
help. Unfortunately, there
are also people who try to
do you harm. Safety,
whether its from humans
or wild animals, needs to
be a high priority.
I recommend for any-
body who lives in an area
where they are allowed, to
K
E
Y
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U
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B
E
R
S
3
The number
of gallons
recommended
per day,
per person
40
When storing
water, use plastic
barrels with this
gallon capacity
14
You should have
enough supplies
to last this
amount of days


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By Sean Cooper
ROTATING ITEMS
EASONS






















purchase a firearm and get proper
training, Ward advises. If you
arent keen on owning a gun,
some good alternatives include
defensive martial arts training and
dogs. Not only will a dog keep
you company, it will alert you of
trespassers.
5.
Food
Although food isnt as crucial
as water (you can live 30 days
without food), theres no reason
to go without and suffer. Food is
a comfort item; its physiologically
nice to have a full belly, says
Ward. Ward doesnt recommend
having a food supply for any set
number of days. I recommend
you stockpile as much food as
you can afford. Its important to
stockpile items youre actually
going to want to eat. Ward rec-
ommends a mixture of canned,
dried (pastas, lentils, peas, beans)
and freeze-dried foods.
6.
Communication
A communication device
comes in handy during a disaster.
Not only can you send and
receive information, you can let
loved ones know youre safe.
While its useful to have a cell-
phone, it may not work if the
power grid goes down, so its a
good idea to have a landline
phone. Other useful communica-
tion devices include a handheld
radio (good for talking back and
forth), short-wave radio with
AM/FM capability and ham radio
(good for broadcasting and
receiving information).
7.
Tools
If your shelter is damaged dur-
ing the disaster, such as a tree
falling down and damaging your
roof, its a good idea to have basic
tools on hand to make immediate
repairs. These dont have to be
expensive tools, just the typical
tools youd find in any toolbox:
hammer, shovel, axe, pry bar,
screwdriver, ratchet, etc. Although
not required, an electric generator
comes in handy if youre without
power for an extended period of
time.
8.
Comfort Items
This isnt at the bottom o
the list because it isnt impor-
tant. says Ward. Comfort i
are important to your family
well-being, especially if you h
children at home. He reco
mends the following items f
children: books, a deck of c
board games, crayons, acti
ures and a flashlight with e
batteries. Not only
do these items
entertain your fam-
ily, they can help
take their minds off
the incident and put
your kids at ease.
WHERE TO STORE THE 14 DAYS
Storage shouldnt be an issue if you have a decent size home. Eme
trally located and every family should know where they are stored
go searching for gear when an emergency strikes. Each family sho
emergency access system. Ward recommends each member have
items for kids and a grab and go kit for adults, in case you sudd
safety reasons.

By Wendy Wilson
PET PREP
By Planning for Natural Disasters and Emergencies, You and Your Pets
72

OUR DOGS AND
CATS NEED A
SURVIVAL PLAN,
TOO.
When superstorm Sandy
slammed the East Coast on
October 29, 2012, thousands of
evacuees including Barbara
Alfaro of Ocean City, Mary-
land were faced with the same
question: What do we do with
our pets?
Larry Abramson, an NPR
correspondent reporting on the
Category 1 hurricane, described
Alfaros predicament: Her dog,
Pip, was not welcome at Stephen
Decatur High School, which had
been converted into a shelter for
50 or so people, Abramson said.
So Barbara spent last night going
back and forth between her bed
in the shelter and her car to
keep Pip company. She brought
him treats and hugs.
Pip was one of the lucky
ones. As evidenced by overflow-
ing animal shelters in the days
following natural disasters, ani-
mals as common as dogs and cats
and exotic as birds and rodents
find themselves necessarily aban-
doned by their owners because
of emergency circumstances.
Hurricanes, floods, fires, earth-
quakes, tornados, blizzards, even
volcanic eruptions not to men-
tion human-triggered crises, like
house fires, gas leaks and terror-
ist threats happen with little
warning. If forced to evacuate or
hunker down at home, unpre-
pared pet owners may find
themselves panicking.
When faced with an emer-
gency situation, pet owners need
to intervene for their dogs and
cats to ensure their safety, says
Janell Matthies, emergency ser-
vices manager for the United
Animal Nations, a Sacramento,
California-based organization
that brings animals out of crisis
through a variety of programs,
including emergency sheltering
and disaster relief services.
Animals can be affected by
natural disasters in a number of
ways, Matthies says. When
they are left behind, they can
starve, fall ill, become injured or
drown, depending on the type of
disaster. Even when animals are
evacuated by their families, they
can become extremely stressed.
It doesnt have to be that
way. With a little disaster pre-
paredness and plan rehearsal,
you can make sure your family
members including your pets
survive the crisis together.
Heres how to prepare for a dis-
aster, create an action plan, and
practice it to perfection.
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YOUR PETS
EMERGENCY KIT
The Humane Society of
the United States recom-
mends that pet owners
prepare an emergency
supply kit for their animals
in case of evacuation.
Here are the items to
include:
Medical records and
medications
Current photos and
descriptions of pets
Information on feeding
schedules, medical
conditions, behavior
problems, and the name
and number of your
veterinarian in case you
need to board your pets
Pet first-aid kit and
first-aid book
Sturdy leashes,
harnesses, and carriers
to safely transport pets
Blankets and towels for
bedding
Toys, beds and other
comfort items
Food and water for
at least three days
Bowls and dishes
for food and water
Litter and litter box (for
cats and small animals)
Grooming tools
Manual can opener,
spoons, utensils
Newspapers, paper
towels, poop bags,
plastic trash bags,
household bleach
Keep important
documents, like medical
records, in a waterproof
container, and place
everything in an accessi-
ble bag or bin that can
be carried easily. Store it
alongside your own
emergency kit and have it
ready to go in case of
emergency.
ASPCA veterinary
technician cares
for a cat at the
ASPCA's Bergh
Memorial Animal
Hospital.
Will be Ready for Just about Anything.
73

PET PREPPERS
BE PREPARED
When it comes to preparedness, emergency
management professionals have a saying: If you fail
to prepare, youre preparing to fail, says Ines de
Pablo, a Washington D.C.-trained emergency man-
agement specialist based in Herndon, Virginia. Heres
how experts recommend you prepare:
Carry Identification: Preparing for an unforeseen
emergency or natural disaster begins with making
sure your pet has his ID microchip, tags or both
with him at all times, advises Heather Case, DVM,
director of the scientific activities division for the
American Veterinary Medical Association. Tags
should list current, updated information, and ideally, a
cell phone number where you can be reached in case
you and your pet separate during an evacuation.
Have an Emergency Kit Ready: Matthies says your
emergency to-go kit should contain things like a col-
lapsible food and water bowl; extra harness,
collar and leash; pick-up bags; temporary iden-
tification tags; pet first-aid kit; airtight contain-
ers filled with at least 72 hours worth of food,
water and medications; a properly sized ken-
nel; and any other comfort items your dog will
need.
Ready a List of Emergency Contacts, Vet-
erinary Records: A list of emergency con-
tacts like your animal hospitals phone num-
ber as well as complete veterinary records
and proof of dog ownership are critical, de
Pablo says. Pack all of your dogs veterinary
records, including proof of rabies, parvo, dis-
temper and kennel cough vaccinations, she
says. And also include multiple pictures of
your entire family with the dog, as well as any-
one else who you feel should be OKd to go
to the co-location shelter and see the animal.
Plan Accommodations in Advance: In addi-
tion to gathering your emergency kit and
veterinary records, you should also identify
where you and your pet will stay in case of
evacuation, Case says. Because the Red Cross
cannot accept pets in their evacuation facili-
ties, you may need to find separate accommo-
dations for your pet, like a boarding kennel, a
pet-friendly hotel, or a pet-loving friends
place.
Once youve prepared your pet and your
emergency kit, its time to formulate a plan of
action.
BASE PLAN
ON VARIOUS
SCENARIOS
Experts agree if not wholeheartedly
emphasize the importance of having a
disaster preparedness plan of action. The first
step is to identify the real potential threats or
dangers in your area, says Case.
Whats mostly likely going to be a reason
youll need to evacuate? It all depends on
where youre located, Case says. You could
be in hurricane alley. You could be in an area
where there are significant winter storms or
flooding. Plus, according to recent FEMA sta-
tistics, there are 150,000 house fires in the
United States every year, so people need to
realize what their hazards are even the ones
that arent natural disasters.
Different situations demand different
responses, de Pablo adds, so pet owners
should plan for three different evacuation or
emergency response scenarios:
Emergency evacuation with little or no
notice: In a situation like a house fire or
earthquake, youll need to grab only the most
essential items including your pets and
head to safety.
Emergency or voluntary evacuation where
youd have to leave your dog behind: Though
far from ideal, de Pablo says, the situation may
arise. If this happens, animals will rely on their
survival instincts, but you can make it easier
for them and for first responders if you
leave an evacuation card tacked or nailed to
your home, along with food and water for
your pet, Case says. Never leave your animals
chained outside.
A shelter-at-home situation: In a tornado
or hurricane when you hunker down with
your dog in your home, make sure you choose
a safe room and stock it with essentials, de
Pablo says. Include food, water, a flashlight and
other emergency essentials.
By planning and thinking through each
emergency and evacuation scenario, youll be
better able to remain calm and handle what-
ever situation comes at you, says de Pablo.
And wouldnt it be a beautiful world if
you could then help other people? she says.
If your neighbor didnt have a plan, theyd be
panicking, but because you have everything in
place, you can lend a hand.
PRACTICE, PRAC-
TICE, PRACTICE
The emergency management field has
another saying: An unrehearsed plan is a bad
plan, de Pablo says. Whether its a fire drill,
an evacuation plan or a shelter-in-place plan,
you should rehearse it with your family and
The emergency management field has another
saying: An unrehearsed plan is a bad plan.
-- Ines de Pablo, a Washington D.C.-trained emergency management specialist
WHATS A MICROCHIP?
A microchip is a rice-sized electronic
device that your veterinarian injects subcu-
taneously between your pets shoulder
blades. When scanned with a reader at an
animal shelter or veterinary clinic, the
device transmits a code that corresponds to
your contact information thats listed in a
pet registry database. If your dog, cat or
bird is not microchipped, consult your vet-
erinarian for advice.
Adoptable dogs
at the ASPCA
Adoption Center
get their last
walk before
Hurricane
Sandy strikes.
74

pets because rehearsing
makes it realistic.
Run through every step
in your plan, de Pablo says.
Time how long it takes your
family members to gather
emergency packs and meet
at the car. Drive to evacua-
tion centers, noting
resources along the way.
Know what youll do with
your pet if you have to leave
him behind. By practicing,
youll be able to fill any holes
in your plan and mitigate
unforeseen problems, she
says.
These rehearsals dont
have to be a chore. In fact,
de Pablo says, you can have
fun running drills and train-
ing your dog-specific emer-
gency-related commands,
like when you say, Fire,
your pup knows to dash to
the car as quickly as
possible.
You can definitely
involve your pets and get
them used to having these
drills, she says. And you
can even invite your friends
over. Instead of having a
Pampered Chef party, you
can host an evacuation
party. Imagine the different
scenarios you can run
through.
Though you cant pre-
vent natural disasters or
emergencies from happen-
ing, you and your pets can
be prepared for them. Iden-
tify threats, formulate a plan
and practice what youll do if
Mother Nature strikes.
Wendy Wilson is an
award-winning journalist
who lives in California.
An ASPCA veterinary technician cares for animals
at the ASPCA's Bergh Memorial Animal Hospital.
ASPCA president and CEO Ed Sayres visits ASPCA
headquarters in uptown Manhattan the morning after
Hurricane Sandy slammed the East Coast.
PETS ACT
OF 2006
When Hurricane Kat-
rina struck the Gulf Coast
in 2005, it taught many
lessonsincluding how
to manage pets in case of
natural disaster.
At the time, no formal
pet evacuation procedure
existed. So, in 2006, Con-
gress passed H.R. 2858,
the Pets Evacuation and
Transportation Standards
Act and President George
W. Bush signed the PETS
Act into law.
The PETS Act requires
that state and local agen-
cies must include pets in
their evacuation plans to
receive FEMA funding,
says Janell Matthies,
United Animal Nations
emergency services man-
ager in Sacramento, Cali-
fornia. As a result of this,
more and more local
agencies are formulating
plans to include animals
in evacuation operations.
For example, she says,
some areas have formed
animal response teams
that can set up temporary
shelters for animals who
are displaced and/or coor-
dinate rescue efforts for
animals trapped behind
disaster lines.
Still, Matthies recom-
mends pet owners have
their own evacuation plan
in place in case of natural
disaster. UAN encour-
ages everyone to have
their own emergency and
evacuation plans and to
rely on government res-
cue and shelter opera-
tions only as a last
resort, she says.
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ODAYS SMARTPHONES
ARE EQUIPPED WITH
NUMEROUS BELLS AND
WHISTLES TO KEEP USERS
ENTERTAINED FOR HOURS ON
END. EVEN WHEN IN THE GREAT
OUTDOORS, ITS HARD TO ESCAPE
CELL PHONES OR THE
BENEFITS THEY CAN DELIVER,
ESPECIALLY IN EMERGENCY
SITUATIONS.
The most effective use of a smartphone
often depends on signal strength, says Tim
MacWelch, owner and operator of Advanced
Survival Training, a wilderness survival school
based on Fredericksburg, Virginia. If you
have access, call for help! But when signals are
weak, it might still be possible to get a text to
a friend or loved one who can alert the
proper authorities.
Despite spotty reception in remote areas,
smartphones can be lifesavers if disaster
strikes. With a variety of built-in technology
and downloadable apps that can be used
regardless of connectivity, users can success-
fully endure perilous situations. Consider these
often-unforeseen uses of your smartphone.
CALL ME
MAYBE
Smartphones Can Save Your Life In A
Wilderness Emergency
T
PHONE
By Erin Hatfield
1. COMPASS
When youre lost or have
been separated from others in
your party, a compass can be an
invaluable tool to help you gain
your bearings. Many smart-
phones come equipped with
compass functionality, which can
help prevent you from walking in
circles, even when the sky is
overcast or at night, MacWelch
says. As a precaution, be sure to
take the program for a trial run
before striking out on your own
in the wilderness to familiarize
yourself with the application.
2. GPS
Communicating an exact
location when youre lost or
injured can be challenging. But
with the latest smartphone tech-
nology, users can rely upon maps
and other global positioning satel-
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Smartphones can
be used for a variety
of life-saving tasks,
so dont leave home
without it.

identify a location. GPS capabilities can also enable oth-
ers to find you as long as the phone is powered and
holds a signal.
Using GPS coordinates to geotag photos or videos
on your phone before uploading to social media sites
such as Twitter and Facebook or remote cloud stor-
age can also help search parties pinpoint your general
vicinity should you be unable to communicate. You can
also document a perilous situation and send messages to
loved ones even if the phone gets damaged after the
upload is complete.
3. LIGHT SOURCE
Anyone who has been to the movies in the past five
years can attest to the light output of most smartphones.
Some models come equipped with flashlights, but for
those that dont, theres an app for that. There are sev-
eral free flashlight apps available for iPhones and
Androids that use the devices LED displays to fill the
screens with bright light and illuminate surroundings.
Even the lock screen or home screen can provide
enough light to assist with navigating terrain in the dark.
4. VoIP
Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) apps can help in
locations where signals are weak, using the Internet to
make calls rather than a voice line. One very popular
VoIP application is Skype (www.skype.com), which can
make calls over WiFi and 3G cellular networks. Skype
and other VoIP technology also enable you to send
video, enabling users to share visuals of their surround-
ings and possible injuries.
5. FIRST AID KIT
As injuries often set off an emergency situation,
being well versed in first aid can help ensure survival in
the wilderness. There are various first aid apps for
smartphone users, ranging from injury care guides to
medical history collections.
6. EDIBLE PLANT
ENCYCLOPEDIA
When facing a survival encounter, securing shelter
and locating water are top priorities. But many adventur-
ers thoughts quickly turn to food. An edible plant ency-
clopedia can help ensure that you stave off hunger while
you navigate your way to safety.
One popular app is Wild Edibles from forager Steve
Brill. The app is available in a free lite version with lim-
ited functionality and a paid version that gives users
information on how to identify, harvest and use 165 of
the best wild edible and medicinal plants of North Amer-
ica, as well as details on look-alikes.
COVER ALL THE BASES
When preparing for your outdoor adventure, dont
neglect your smartphone. Take a look at the apps avail-
able to help navigate your way through both the wilder-
ness and emergency situations. And one final word of
advice be sure to tell someone where youre going and
how long youll be there.
Smartphones are smart, but you should cover all
your bases.
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when signals are
weak, it might still be
possible to get a text
to a friend Tim MacWelch
MAKE SURE YOU HAVE JUICE
A well-equipped smartphone can help you overcome wilderness adversity, but keeping it charged can
remain a challenge. Using your phone judiciously can help save battery life, but there are a few tools on the
market that can help charge your phone even in highly rural areas. Pocket cell phone chargers that run on
AA batteries are available for about $20 from various vendors, including Duracell, Energizer and HTC. Out-
door supply stores also carry solar chargers that can be adapted for cell phones.
In the expansive
wilderness, a
smartphone can
be used as a GPS
or compass.
DONT DISCARD A
BROKEN PHONE
It Could Save Your Life
Even a busted smart-
phone can be of use in
the wilderness. While it
may hurt to completely
dismantle your phone,
various pieces can pro-
vide the tools you need to
survive or even facilitate a
rescue. Most phones have
reflective parts that can
be used to signal for help,
much like mirrors.
In a pinch, the circuit
board can serve as a
spear point. Just break or
sharpen the board into a
point and lash it to a
stick. The same sharp
edges can be used to cut
rope, foraged food and
other items.
The compass function
on a damaged phone
doesnt provide much
help. Instead, locate the
magnet in your speakers
and use it to magnetize a
piece of wire. When float-
ing in water, the magne-
tized wire will act like a
compass and help you
navigate through the
great outdoors.
A smartphone battery
can serve as a critical
piece of equipment for
starting fires. Any bat-
tery with a charge higher
than three voltswhich
is pretty much any cell
batterycan be used to
start a fire, says Tim
MacWelch. Just touch
the positive and negative
ends to wires or dry steel
wool to create a spark.
Be careful, though, as the
spark happens quickly
and needs tinder close by
to catch fire.

OUSE WARMING TAKES ON A WHOLE NEW MEANING
WHEN YOURE LIVING OFF THE GRID. IF YOUR SURVIVAL
GOALS INVOLVE BEING SELF-RELIANT, CHANCES ARE YOU
MIGHT NEED A WAY TO AVOID THE SEASONS COLD WEATHER
WHILE STICKING TO YOUR GOALS. OR MAYBE MOTHER NATURE
HAS DECIDED THAT SHES IN CHARGE, SO YOU HAVE NO OPTION
BUT TO LIVE OFF THE GRID. EITHER WAY, YOU CAN STAY WARM.
HOUSE
WARMING

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By Torrey Kim
Living off the grid
doesnt mean you
have to absorb win-
ters chill this season.
Follow these tips to
ensure your home
retains the heat.
When The Power Is Out, Crank Up These
Ideas To Generate Heat For Your Household
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HEAT SOURCES
Theres more than one way to heat your
home without using electricity, and the
method you choose will depend on your
personal preferences.
The two most common ways to heat an
off-grid house are using a wood stove or using
one or more propane-fired space heaters with
through-the-wall venting, says Martin Halladay
of Green Building Advisor, who has lived off the
grid for 35 years.
If you choose to go the wood stove route,
make sure you carefully estimate the amount of
firewood youll need to make it through the
winter. Ideally, Halladay says, youll stockpile a
winters worth of firewood before October 1.
In addition, you can add warmth to your
house by ensuring that the suns rays can fully
reach it. Passive solar heat is a great place to
start, says Claudia J. King of Smart Solutions,
Inc., which offers high-performance energy effi-
cient products. Do whatever you can to allow
for the sun energy to heat mass. That can
include something as simple as trimming trees.
King recommends that you evaluate your
entire Thermal Envelope, which includes
walls, windows, ceiling and floor. Good use of
passive solar thermal can reduce heating loads
by large numbers, she says. The better the
performance of the thermal envelope, the
longer and more comfortable the home will be
in difficult times. It is static and non-mechanical,
and the single most important part in maintain-
ing efficiency and comfort at the least cost
or work.
ACTIVE SOLAR
SYSTEMS
To warm your house, you may want to
delve deeper into the solar option. In addition
to absorbing the suns rays through passive
placement, you may also consider solar energy
that involves carefully placed panels.
An active solar system (like solar hot
water) correctly tied into a primary looped
hydronic system is really an excellent way to go
but must we weighed in carefully, King says.
Lots of heat options exist like conventional
wall hung gas boilers and wood gasification
boilers. Wood gasification or biomass boilers
are like incinerators and can burn almost any-
thing combustible (including trash). These sys-
tems have very small electric loads and can
operate at very high efficiencies, she adds.
Geothermal heat pumps have received a
fair amount of press over the past few years,
due to their ability to pull natural heat from
If you want to focus
on staying warm, you need
to build as airtight a
structure AS you can
Blake Reid of Snug Planet
FAST HEAT FACTS
WOOD STOVE, PROPANE-FIRED
SPACE
HEATERS
These are
the common
ways to
heat an
off-grid house.
WOOD
ESTIMATES
Carefully
estimate the
amount of
firewood youll
need to make
it through the
winter and
have your
wood by
October 1.

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HOUSE WARMING

under the ground and deliver it to your home. These may not be as
common in off-grid homes as youd expect, however.
Geothermal heat pumps are fine for some applications, but they
still use large amounts of electric power and are typically seldom
used off grid, King says. An example of a good geothermal applica-
tion is when you have both a heating and cooling load (similar in size)
or need at the same time. An ultra-energy-efficient home can use one
or more small High SEER (up to 27) ductless mini-split heat pumps
and be a success down to about 5 degrees F. These small systems
have small electric power requirements and great performance.
INSULTATION IS KEY
Once youve nailed down a heating method for your home, its
time to institute part two of your warmth strategy: Containing the
heat.
If you want to focus on staying warm, you need to build as
airtight a structure as you can and then use the right form of
insulation, says Blake Reid of Snug Planet, a Tompkins County,
New York-based company that performs building analyses to advise
homeowners and companies about how to make their structures
more energy-efficient.
Carefully identify areas where heat can escape, Reid says. A lot
of the way heat is contained is sealing up holes, he notes. No
matter what insulation you have, it wont be effective if holes in
your walls let the heat escape.
Even if you just built your home and youre confident there are
no leaks, think again. People make holes in your walls, such as
plumbers, electricians, framers, and cable technicians, Reid
explains. Energy auditors can find those holes and seal them.
When considering insulation materials, be sure to use a product
that will fill your walls completely. We really like cellulose, Reid
says. Its made of ground-up newspapers, and you can squeeze
it into your walls and it really fills them. Its more airtight than
fiberglass, because when air moves through fiberglass, its
performance is degraded.
In addition, Reid says, dont stop just at your walls. We believe
in insulating all around, even the floors, to make sure no heat
escapes, he says.
Plus, you should look at your entryways to confirm that they
arent allowing heat to leak out. Use spray foam, weather-stripping
and sealant in any place needed to fill cracks, penetrations and
around windows and doors if any trim is ever removed, King
advises.
HAVE A BACK-UP PLAN
When youre living off the grid,
you need a back-up plan for
power. Resorting to a generator
in winter is typicalnot
unusual, says Martin Halladay of
Green Building Advisor. In most
parts of North America, there are
many fewer hours of sunlight dur-
ing the winter, while electrical
needs increase.
If you have a back-up genera-
tor that you intend to hook into or
back-feed your power system,
know how to connect it and use it
safely, says Claudia J. King of
Smart Solutions, Inc. She also
recommends that if its your first
winter using the generator, use it
sparingly as needed, reserving
your fuel. Monitor your fuel use so
you can plan accordingly for
future fuel storage next winter,
she adds.
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The two most common ways to heat an off-grid house are
using a wood stove or using one or more propane-fired
space heaters Martin Halladay of Green Building Advisor

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PRACTICE NOW
If youve never endured a winter
off the grid and youre unsure of
whether youre ready, consider a test
run. Most people who are connected
to the grid have little experience with-
out power for more than a day or
two, King says.
If you want to know if youre
prepared, the solution is simple: Shut
off your main power under your ideal
conditions, then make a list of the
things you still need, King recom-
mends. Repeat this a few times, and
you will learn what it takes to get
things done. Who says you need
electricity to generate heat?
If you want to know if youre prepared, the solution is simple: Shut OFF your
main power under your ideal conditions Claudia J. King of Smart Solutions, Inc.
KNOW THE COSTS OF FUEL
If you plan to live off the
grid, be ready to cut ties with
your natural gas provider, in
addition to your electricity ser-
vice. When people talk off
grid, we normally have no nat-
ural gas available so propan
becomes the only gas option
King says. We use a cost pe
million BTU chart that makes
looking at options a bit easie
but certainly consider mainte
nance, life-cycle and power
use. You can find the chart
www.electromn.com/pdf/BC
.pdf.
CONSERVE YOUR ENERGY
Its always important to conserve
energy in your home, but its even
more essential when youre living off
the grid and every degree counts.
Like all things thermal, use every-
thing wisely, keep doors shut and
don't waste energy, King says.
Take full advantage of
anything natural that you
do have, like light,
snow, sun, cool nights,
water, gravity and
moonlight.
MAKE A PRACTICE RUN
Before youre forced to live without
power, do a trial run. Shut off your main
power under your ideal conditions and
make a list of the things you need.
Repeat as necessary, and you will learn
what it takes to get things done.


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Road
KITS
By Paul Hantke
was rolling east on Interstate 70 in Utah one
night at about 10 p.m. I was halfway between
Salina and Green River on the 104-mile
stretch with no services. I was on my way to
Elk Camp in central Colorado, and I pushed on
from Salina that night because I needed to be in
Grand Junction when I woke.
Fueled with beef jerky and plenty of bottles of
water, I plodded on until I got into a fight with a
particularly tough piece of jerky, and the jerky
won. I bit down, pulled it sideways and managed
to break one of my molars in half.
Instinctively, I put my tongue into the gap
and was rewarded with a shock from the
exposed nerve. Then, further reinforcing the
Three Stooges concept of dealing with a crisis, I
rolled down the window (38 degrees Fahrenheit
outside) and tried to rinse out my mouth with
water in case I was bleeding. Forget bleeding,
the shock of the water on the nerve had me
sputtering out the window. When I inhaled, the
cold made it hurt even worse.
This was all occurring at about 70 miles per
hour as I drove my Suburban with the Jeep in
tow. Fortunately, there was a rest stop just
ahead, so I pulled off, got out and walked
around for a moment cursing the tooth gods.
Then I went to work.
Using a flashlight, small shaving mirror and
tooth repair kit, I quickly mixed some sterile
plastic paste and dabbed it into the hole, sealing
the nerve from contact. I was good to go again.
This wasnt the first, or last time, I have res-
cued myself from difficulties of various sorts
because I was prepared with a road kit. And its
something everyone should have for regular
travel or in case you are impacted by a natural
disaster.
Paul Hantke is USMC retired, a freelance writer
and former magazine editor.
I
BANDAGES
Standard adhesive
Band-Aids
Large sterile pads for
scrapes or burns and
cleaning
Butterfly bandages to
close a cut
Waterproof First-Aid tape
in different widths
Large self sticky wraps to
hold dressings in place
Ace flex bandage
ANTISEPTICS
Hydrogen peroxide
Isopropol alcohol
Original Listerine
mouthwash
Baby wipes
Hand sanitizer
CUT SUPPLIES
Staplers (will help close a
large cut once bleeding is
stopped)
Glue sticks (sticks and
liquid available that
instantly seal the skin after
the bleeding has been
stopped)
EXTREME TRAUMA KITS
These are critical to treat
gunshot wounds or other
deep penetration prob-
lems.
They are available com-
mercially or there are lots
of military surplus prod-
ucts out there that serve
the purpose.
Tampons also work well.
These are stopgap
measures until
professional help arrives.
ORAL CARE
Dental floss and
toothpicks
Topical anesthetic
Tooth repair kit
Medicine specifically
for canker sores, etc.
Extra toothbrush
CREAMS, SALVES, SPRAYS
Anti-bacterial products
such as Bacitracin or
generic equivalents for
cuts or burns
Cortisone-based anti-itch
creams or sprays are
welcome relief when
afflicted with bug bites or
reactions to various plants
Sunscreen
Chap-Stick
Insect repellant
STOMACH/DIGESTIVE
Heartburn and indigestion
products
Products for diarrhea
EYES
Extra set of prescription
glasses
Sunglasses
Eye drops
Eye wash
Eye patch
SINUS/ALLERGY/COLDS
Your best bet is to know
where you are going and
what to expect in terms of
allergy irritants
Cold remedies
Cough syrup, cough
drops/lozenges
MISCELLANEOUS
Scissors of various sizes
Tweezers of various sizes
Mirror
Magnifying glass
Two good flashlights
Self-adhesive sticky
wraps are also good for
use as an Ace bandage
replacement, or they can
be used to secure splinting
material to a fracture.
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Road KIT CHECKLIST
Just a few items from our Road Kit
checklist displayed here:
Scissors, bandages, first aid tape,
eye drops, antiseptic
items you should always
have in your car for any
emergency.

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Ma nki nd s
F ury
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Tips For Urban Preparedness
Its mans deadliest recipe a match, 60-mph wind, dry brush and a
warped mind. Mix these together, and the result is a brushfire that can burn
with a vengeance for some 35 miles, devastating everything in its path, including
multi-million dollar homes, all the way to the Pacific Ocean.
Devil winds, a devil mind. Mankinds fury. Always be prepared.
In This Section
Wildfire Preparation
Flotation Devices
Survival Gardens
Nutritional Needs
Survive an Active Shooter
14-Day Family Survival Checklist

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T ONLY TAKES MINUTES.
THE COLORADO WILDFIRES
THAT STRUCK LAST SUM-
MER WERE A STARK
REMINDER OF THE UNBELIEV-
ABLE DESTRUCTION THAT CAN
TAKE PLACE IN AN OBSCENELY
SHORT AMOUNT OF TIME.
EXPERTS ESTIMATE THAT
MORE THAN 600 HOMES WERE
DESTROYED, CAUSING ABOUT
$450 MILLION IN DAMAGE DUE
TO THE DESTRUCTIVE FORCE
OF COLORADOS FIRES.
Across the United States, wildfires
cause billions of dollars in damage per
year. In 2009 alone, 78,792 wildfires
occurred in the U.S., damaging nearly
six-million acres of land, FEMA statistics
indicate.
Southern California is also vulnera-
ble, as the Santa Ana winds that blow
through the fall and winter can cause
utter devastation. If you want to secure
your home against a wildfire or brush
fire, you need to take into account the
building materials and design of your
home and the placement of near-home
vegetation. Examine the following eight
vulnerable spots, and find out what you
can do to keep your home safe from a
fire.
UNDER FIRE
Protect Your Home Against Wildfire By Taking Action Against
Eight Vulnerable Areas
By Suzanne Leder
DURING THE WILDFIRE
BE READY TO EVACUATE AND HAVE THESE ITEMS ON HAND
Youre watching the
news, and you know that the
wildfires are spreading and
nearing your neighborhood.
What do you do? What do
you bring?
When To Evacuate:
When deciding whether to
evacuate, you should know
that most deaths occur when
people decide to protect
their home. Therefore, you
should determine whether
you will evacuate when
authorities recommend it.
You need to leave in time to
avoid being caught in fire,
smoke or road congestion.
What You Should
Have On Hand:
You should decide what
you should bring when
evacuating, which may
include the following:
Prescription medication
Eyeglasses
Important documents
(birth certificates,
insurance papers, photos)
Jewelry
Pet supplies (food,
leash, carrier)
Cash
Laptop and charger
Cell phone and charger
Make a checklist, so
you dont forget anything.
Also, make sure you have
a sturdy box on hand for
collecting these important
items, especially when
youre in a hurry.
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Dry conditions and hot temperatures create the
perfect environment for wildfires to spread.
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TARGET 1 Roof
Coverings and Edge
Your roof covering and the edge are the most
vulnerable parts of your home. These areas endure
the most exposure to the elements: rain, sun, wind
and so on. During a wildfire, this is the area most
susceptible to embers.
Action Step: Know your roofs fire rating. Class
A classifies the highest rating, while Class C classifies
the lowest. Even if you have a Class A roof, its vul-
nerable to wildfire if the roof has a complex number
of angles. Embers can more easily collect in the joints.
The material of your roof covering also makes a
difference. Rounded tiles may allow openings for not
only birds and rodents to enter the roof, but flame
exposure.
Even though you may
think your canned goods
are safe after wildfire,
bacteria can grow at
high temperatures. You
should discard them,
even if they look okay.

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AFTER
THE FIRE
WHAT NOT TO EAT IN
YOUR DAMAGED HOME
The unthinkable has
happened: Your home has
caught fire, but you have
made your way back into
your home to salvage your
belongings. Do you know
what to do with your food?
Canned Food:
Even though you may
think your canned goods are
safe, bacteria can grow at
high temperatures. You
should discard them, even if
they look okay.
Packaged Food:
Toxic fumes and chemi-
cals can damage food stored
in permeable containers such
as plastic wrap and screw-
topped jars, so its best to
toss them, too.
Cold Food:
Is your fridge okay?
Check it for odors. If it smells
funny, err on the side of
being safe. Door seals arent
airtight, so toxic fumes and
chemicals can affect the
contents. If the food has an
off odor or taste, discard.
Room Temperature
Food:
Again, toxic fumes and
chemicals can affect these
items (such as potatoes,
onions or fruit). Toss them.
If you want to save your
canned goods and cookware,
wash them in a strong deter-
gent solution and then soak
in bleach (one tsp. per quart
of water).
Action Step: If you have a round tile roof, then
you should install bird stops. They wont necessarily
keep tiny embers out of the space, but it should
significantly reduce the accumulation of combustible
debris.
TARGET 2 Gutters
Similarly, debris can also collect around skylights
and in rain gutters.
Action Step: Clear out your gutters before fire
season, because the debris can easily ignite in a
wildfire. A metal gutter can hold the debris in place,
so that it burns up onto the edge of the roof. A roof
edge can be vulnerable depending on the materials
the builders used and how well the flashing protects
the edge. A vinyl (plastic) gutter will melt and fall off.
The potential is there that the burning contents will
ignite materials or vegetation on the ground.
TARGET 3 Attics
If youve ever gone up into your attic during
hot temperatures, you know that this enclosure is
usually hot and dry meaning that fire will spread
easily here.
Note: The most secure type of attic is ventless,
and the best way to make use of this is to build your
home that way. If your home is already built, experts
do not advise closing off your vents without
considering moisture-related damage issues.
TARGET 4 Overhangs
Wider overhangs are more susceptible to
wildfires, because they trap embers. However,
they can protect the wall from the radiant heat.
Action Step: Make sure you use ignition-resis-
tant or noncombustible soffit materials in your
overhang.
Even if a wildfire doesnt appear to be approaching
your neighborhood yet, be attentive to local officials,
who may evacuate you.

86
TARGET 5 Windows
An open window during a wildfire is a bad
idea. No surprise there. Larger windows, how-
ever, are more prone to small cracks. Should a
fire ignite the framing or cause enough tempera-
ture stress, the windows can shatter.
Action Step: Opinions about window con-
struction materials vary widely, but ideally, win-
dows should have multi-panes, with one of the
panes being tempered. Tempered glass is four
times stronger and more resistant to thermal
exposures. Also, make sure you have window
screens. Fine mesh reduces the size of embers.
TARGET 6 Deck
Do you have materials stored under your
deck? You may want to move them before wild-
fire season.
No matter whether your deck wood uses
fire retardant or composite products, all these
materials are susceptible to fire especially
when combustible materials are around it. (You
can find a listing of decking products that comply
with California requirements in the WUI
Product Handbook: http://www.osfm.fire.ca.gov/
strucfireengineer/pdf/bml/wuiproducts.pdf).
Action Step: The best thing to do with
your deck is to keep it free of leaves and nee-
dles, including those that collect between the
deck boards and side of the house. Also, be
aware if you have any decaying wood, as this is
more prone to ignite. And move items that can
attract flames from underneath and around
your deck.
TARGET 7 Sidings
You can divide siding into three categories:
combustible (solid wood, plywood, oriented
strand board, compressed wood fiber products),
noncombustible (three-coat stucco, metal, fiber
cement) and ignition-resistant.
Action Step: Make sure you have the siding
of the noncombustible and ignition resistant
variety, particularly in the trim and joints. In the
latter case, sheathing can increase the time the
fire needs to penetrate into the stud cavity.
TARGET 8 Vegetation
Not only do you need to maintain and use
the most flame-resistant materials in your home,
but you should worry about vegetation as well.
The most important thing that you can do
to help your local firefighters to protect your
home is to properly clear the brush located
around the perimeter of your home, said P.
Michael Freeman, County of Los Angeles Fire
Chief, in a letter posted on the Los Angeles
County Fire Departments website.
Action Steps:
Make a vegetation management plan this
includes making certain your plants are watered
and pruned.
Create decorative pathways with stone to
break up plant groups and make a hardscape
that is less flammable.
Replace patches of landscape with rock
gardens or fire resistant mulches.
Make certain your vegetation isnt too
near your home, as to allow fire to transfer
from the plant to the house. You dont want to
have plants adjacent to your siding, under vents
FIRE
The most important thing that you can do
to help your local firefighters to protect
your home is to properly clear the brush
located around the perimeter of your home.
- P. Michael Freeman, County of Los Angeles Fire Chief
FREE FIRE APP
Melanie Pipkin of the American
Red Cross tells American Survival
Guide that youll find many tips for
evacuation as well as fire prepared-
ness and prevention from the Red
Cross in a brand new app thats
free for iPhone and Android.
You can check it out at
http://www.redcross.org/
mobile-apps/wildfire-app.
CAN YOU SCORE AN A?
Do you want to know how prepared you are? Take this Home Assessment and
enter your responses at http://firecenter.berkeley.edu/homeassessment/index.pl.
Youll see if you and your home make the grade.
A homes roof is a major entry point for fires
destruction. Pay attention to roofs, overhangs
and gutters before fire strikes.

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ASSESSMENT

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600
6
The number of
homes estimated to
be damaged in the
Colorado wildfire
$450 MILLION
78,792
The amount of damage in the Colorado fire
THE
NUMBER
OF ACRES
DAMAGED
IN THE
2009
WILDFIRES
In 2009,
the number
of wildfires
in the U.S.
or eaves, or under or near
your deck.
Keep your home free of
fuels (dry leaves, grass, or dry
vegetation touching your
home).
Clear vegetation from
underneath your deck.
Keep trees trimmed at
least 10 feet from your
chimney. Remove dead limbs
hanging over your home.
David Bloom, Public Informa-
tion assistant for the Los Angeles
County Fire Department tells
American Survival Guide that
you can find all these tips on
the LAFDs website at
www.fire.lacounty.gov. The link will
be in the upper left-hand corner.
BEFORE
FIRE
SEASON
HOT NUMBERS
MAKE AN EMERGENCY
SUPPLY KIT
Its critical to have an
emergency supply kit on hand.
This may include the following:
At least three days worth of
water for each family member
Change of clothing
Blanket or sleeping bag
First aid kit
Battery powered radio
Flashlight
Batteries
Toiletry
Work gloves
Remember, face your car
outward, so you have the best
visibility when you need to leave.
Always obey law enforcement.
One of the most
important
things you can
do to secure
your home
before wildfire
strikes is to
clear away dry
brush from
around your
house.
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OLD WEATHER IS NOT THE ONLY THING
JUST AROUND THE CORNER. YOU NEVER
KNOW WHEN DISASTER WILL STRIKE
FROM A DEVASTATING NATURAL
DISASTER TO CIVIL UNREST AND CHAOS.
C
SURVIVAL
GARDEN
Sure-Fire Tips To Produce a Winter Gardening Bounty
Know what to plant in your survival garden now so youll be prepared for the harvest, despite the cold weather.
By Kristin Webb-Hollering
GROW YOUR CROPS INSIDE
If you dont have the right type of outdoor soil for gardening or you simply d
have the space, you can grow certain types of vegetables inside during the win
In many cases, if you have the right amount of sunlight in your home, you c
grow all of the winter crops in a container, including lettuce, herbs, peas, carro
and radishes. If youre short on sunlight, you can invest in a halide lamp, which
offer your plants more light.
BEST BETS
FOR WINTER
VEGETABLES
Turnips
Lettuce
Collard greens
So, just because cold weather is around the corner doesnt mean you need to put
away your rake, soil and seeds. For most gardeners, the late fall brings the last harvest of
the season, but if you prepare your vegetable patch properly, you can continue to pro-
duce quality food for your stockpile through the frost and beyond.
Here are some tips to help you reap the rewards of your survival garden this winter.


89
just because
cold weather is
around the corner,
doesnt mean you
need to put away
your rake, soil
and seeds.
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HOW
STRATIFICATION
IMPACTS
YOUR GARDEN
If youve ever planted
seeds for winter friendly
items and yet you get no
results, it could be that
you ignored your seeds
stratification require
ments.
Many plants that
were originally grown in
cold weather have
evolved to develop a nat-
ural understanding to
survive by requiring a
six-month cold period
before they will sprout,
says Tony Avent. A
stratification period is
normally three or six
months, depending on
the plant. Youll sow the
seed, and then it will
require that many months
of cold weather, typically
below 40 degrees, before
it will come up.
The stratification
period varies from plant
to plant, so youll want to
investigate how many
chilling hours your partic-
ular plant requires by
investing in a good seed
book that will delineate
the stratification period
of each seed, Avent
advises.
LATE AUTUMN,
EARLY WINTER
The late autumn yield from your garden should still
be rich with tomatoes, peppers and peas, especially if
you picked the first round in late summer and quickly
repaired and replanted in your beds. These canning and
stockpile essentials can be kept hardy even through a
light frost with a portable greenhouse or homemade
covering.
Many nurseries and hardware stores, in addition to
online seed companies, offer several inexpensive covers
for winter seed and frost gardening cultivation. Make
sure you scoop out the seeds from these fruits and veg-
etables, allowing them to dry for up to two weeks
before storing.
Your family table should be topped with squash,
pumpkin and cucumber delights from your earlier har-
vest right now. Its essential that you collect the seeds
while preparing or dividing these vegetables and gourds
for your pantry.
Occasionally, gourd and squash seeds do not
produce the same quality season after season, so its
always a good idea to purchase new seeds just in case.
Pumpkin seeds are also a wonderful cold day snack
when toasted over a fire and sprinkled with salt; thus,
they do the double duty of being both a future crop and
treat.
PLANTING WITH
FROST IN MIND
Most greens used both in salads and for cooking will
flourish in a cold climate, and they can be counted on in
bleak times to bring a bounty of healthy food to your
table and pantry.
Turnips, lettuce and collard greens will grow very
well in winter, says Tony Avent of Plant Delights Nurs-
ery in Raleigh, North Carolina.
If you havent already, now is a good time to sow
your leafy greens seeds. To ensure plentiful results,
plant a variety of cold-loving greens. Its a good idea to
cover the soil with a light mulch to keep the dirt around
the seeds warmer from frost. The greens will thrive in a
KEY GARDEN TIPS
INEXPENSIVE
COVERS FOR
SEEDS
You can find
these at many
nurseries and
hardware stores
and online seed
companies.
WHAT
COVERS DO
These covers
offer protection
from frost.
PLAN AHEAD
Make sure you
scoop out the
seeds from fruits
and vegetables,
allowing them to
dry for up to two
weeks before
storing.
BRING IN
THE NEW
Occasionally,
gourd and squash
seeds do not
produce the
same quality
season after
season, so its
a good idea to
purchase new
seeds.
Turnips,
lettuce and
collard
greens will
grow very
well in
winter.
Tony Avent, Plant
Delights Nursery,
Raleigh, North
Carolina
Frost can damage your crops
so buy a cover for your garden.

91

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colder climate, but a covering might prove helpful to increase the pro-
duce yield. With a watchful eye and careful touch, your survival garden
will be full of lettuces all winter long.
OVERWINTERING
YOUR GARDEN
After you have harvested your fall crops, you can begin overwinter-
ing your garden. Overwintering means planting and preparing your beds
for your early spring vegetables.
After you adapt the recently harvested soil, root and bulb vegetables
like carrots, turnips, beets, onions, garlic and rutabagas are all excellent
products to sow in your space for overwintering. They will need to be in
the growing process before you cover the soil with a layer of mulch and
may look lackluster and dreary for a while. Broccoli and cauliflower as
well as leafy greens like spinach, kale and chard can also be planted now.
PRODUCE:
WINTER, SPRING
When the days begin to get longer and winter is waning, your survival
garden will begin to emerge again with many tasty veggies.
As the temperatures begin to rise and only a light frost comes at
night, its time to brush away the heavy dirt and let your plants grow.
Your winter garden will produce an early spring harvest and a bounty for
your disaster pantry.
Because you never know what is just around the corner.
EXPECT THE UNEXPECTED
Youve planted your
tomatoes and harvested the
delicious results all summer,
only to assume that you would
have to rely on your canning
and jarring to get you through
the winterbut then you dis-
cover a fresh tomato on the
vinein November!
Many gardeners experience
this anomaly, often the result
of a warm autumn or placing
the tomatoes in a well-lit area.
These harvests are safe to eat,
although they may not taste as
delicious as the summer crop.
Lettuce is one of the recommended
vegetables to grow during the winter.
Sources
Lowes Home Improvement, Gardening Ideas (www.lowes.com)
Gardeners Supply Company (www.gardeners.com)
Burpee Seeds & Plants (www.burpee.com)
Seeds of Change (www.seedsofchange.com)
United States Department of Agriculture (www.usda.gov)
With proper care, youll
produce quality vegetables.

F YOU DONT HAVE YOUR
HEALTH, YOU DONT HAVE
ANYTHING. THUS, IN THE
EVENT OF A LOCAL OR
NATIONAL DISASTER, YOU
NEED TO BE PREPARED NOT
JUST FOR A SHORT-TERM
FOOD SUPPLY SOLUTION, BUT
HAVE A LONG-TERM PLAN
THAT ALLOWS YOU TO MEET
THE NUTRITIONAL NEEDS OF
EACH INDIVIDUAL FAMILY
MEMBER.
If a disasters effects last longer than
three days, the reality is that most peo-
ple are not prepared to provide healthy
meals beyond that period. Trying to rely
on outside assistance may not be the
best approach, so you should be pre-
pared to subsidize your nutritional
needs even in the event that outside
help is available, and make sure you
rotate your emergency supply so its
always current within a three-month
window.
Keep the following nutritional needs
in mind as you create your disaster plan.
WATER
A person can only survive three to five days
without water. The first priority in any disaster is,
therefore, a clean water supply. The average per-
son needs to drink approximately 2 to 3 quarts of
water each day. If you live in a warm climate, are
nursing a child, or are ill, that amount can easily
double.
Water is also necessary for some food
preparation and certain hygiene needs. When
you add that together, you should store at least
1 gallon per person, per day. Set aside a 20-day
supply of water for each member of your family.
Its also recommended to break up this stor-
age supply over multiple areas: garage and base-
ment, with some supply in your vehicle. There
are large storage containers from 55-gallon
drums to large 150-gallon Poly-Mart containers
that are useful for storing your water supply.
Be sure these are secured and maintained.
92
SURVIVAL NUTRITION
Create A Long-Term Plan For Your Familys Needs
By Kristen Kleist
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FOOD
Meals Ready to Eat (MREs) are
usually in most family disaster supply
kits. They are easy to store and
purchase, and simple to prepare. Keep
in mind that these rations usually have
a five-year shelf life and must be main-
tained to ensure that you keep them
fresh in the event of a disaster.
Protein powders and meal supple-
ment bars are also great ways to meet
your nutritional needs in a disaster sit-
uation. You should plan how much
you need to set aside based on how
many people youll be feeding and
what their caloric requirement will be
each day. Multiply these needs by at
least 20 days.
GARDEN
During a food crisis, MREs and
other supplements are helpful, but the
need for fresh fruits and vegetables is
critical in long-term situations to keep
your body healthy.
A home garden is a great source
for disaster nutrition. Not only will
you always have food on hand, but
much of your garden food can be
stored for later use. Freeze-drying,
canning or dehydrating food will keep a
lot on your shelf and in your food
rotation to ensure that you have a
fresh supply on hand.
A garden can be created in just
about any living environment. You can
simply start with a few small containers
or build some planters from lumber if
your yard isnt ideal for gardening, and
create your survival garden until youre
harvesting enough of your own food to
satisfy the whole family.
RIDE OUT
THE STORM
No one wants to experience a
disaster, but anything can happen at
any time, which is exactly why you
need to be prepared.
Kristen Kleist has an expert rating in
Sports Nutrition Certification and Physical
Trainer Certification and she is certified
as an ACTION personal trainer.
In the event
of a local or
national
disaster, you
need to be
prepared not
just for a
short-term food
supply solution,
but have a
long-term plan.
Kristen Kleist, nutritionist
PET PREPARATION
Dont forget to plan for
your pets as well. Simply
keeping an extra bag in your
food rotation for them should
be enough. Plus, be sure to
plan for extra water rations
for each pets needs.
THE FORGOTTEN RESERVOIR
HOW TO GET WATER FROM YOUR WATER HEATER TANK
In an emergency when youre without running water, remember
that you have one water source in your houseyour hot water
heater tank. Follow these steps to access it:
1. Verify that any flooding does not submerge plumbing fixtures
and the water heater.
2. Turn off the gas or electricity, and close the water intake valve.
3. Begin the water flow by opening the drain at the bottom of the
tank and turning on a hot-water faucet.
4. Do not turn on the gas or electricity when the tank is empty.
ENERGY
DISTRIBUTION
OF CALORIES
55 PERCENT
The average percentage
of carbohydrates needed
30 PERCENT
Average percentage
of fat needed
15 PERCENT
The average percentage
of protein needed
Child Age 2 to 3:
Approximately 1,000
to 1,400 calories
Child Age 4 to 8:
About 1,200 to 1,800
calories
Teens and Adults*:
Approximately 2,000
to 2,400 calories
*Men and active people
will need up to 20% more
to maintain their weight.
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Before getting water from a hot water heater, turn off
the gas or electricity.
An MRE is a good
option for feeding your
family after a disaster
TOP 10 DISASTER GARDEN FOODS
1. Beans and peas
2. Tomatoes
3. Potatoes
4. Carrots
5. Cabbage
6. Peppers
7. Greens
8. Spinach
9. Berries
10. Squash
SURVIVAL
CHECKLIST
1 GALLON
This is the
amount of water
that should be
stored for one
person for
each day.
20 DAYS
Make a 20-day
supply of water
for each member
of your family.
THREE
LOCATIONS
The storage
supply should be
in multiple areas,
such as the
garage, basement
and vehicle.
FAST NUTRITION FACTS Daily Calorie Requirements
NUTRITION
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E xt ra
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EDITORS CHOICE
TAURUS
www.taurususa.com
Model: Judge 4510TKR-3MAG
Action: DA
Caliber: .45 Colt/.410 Bore
Capacity: 5
Barrel Length: 3 inches
Special Features: Fires shotshells,
slugs and .45 Colt bullets
interchangeably
MSRP: $695
Firearms For The Defense
Of Your Home And Family
Stuff happens. And if it does, you should be ready, which is why the
following pages are devoted to firearms. This is just the starting point.
If youre new to the world of guns, enroll in an instructional course.
Get proficient, get ready, get prepared.

96
an astounding seven shots (plus
one in the chamber), and the
rifle-style sights get you on target,
while the integral accessory rail is
ready for electronic sights. Should
you close within striking distance,
the crenellated muzzle break is
designed for a last measure of
self-defense.
BENELLI
www.benelliusa.com
Model: Nova Pump Tactical
Action: Pump
Gauges: 12
Chamber: 3.5 inches
Chokes: Cylinder
Capacity: 4+1
Barrel Length: 18.5 inches
Special Features: Ghost right rear sight,
magazine cutoff
MSRP: $459
Description:
Designed for personal defense and police
work, this pump action 12-gauge accepts
virtually any load in shells up to 3.5
inches, utilizing a front blade and rear
ghost ring sight system to get your slugs
or shot on target. Its polymer stock and
lightweight receiver are integrated to
keep out moisture and dirt, and increase
strength for improved service life.
MOSSBERG
www.mossberg.com
Model: 500SPX
Action: Pump
Gauges: 12
Chamber: 3 inches
Chokes: Cylinder
Capacity: 5+1
Barrel Length: 18.5 inches
Special Features: Ghost ring rear sight,
adjustable M4-style stock with five-shot
caddy
MSRP: $637
Description:
This tactical shotgun is ready to serve in
a pinch, with its 5+1 standard capacity
and 3-inch chambers that are ready for
high-brass personal defense loads. The
ghost ring rear and blade-style front
sights will get you on target fast, and the
ported barrel will keep you on target for
fast follow-up shots, while the unique
strap on the forearm helps you cycle the
pump without losing traction on the
forearm itself. Should you need to switch
ammunition typesfrom shot to slugs
or backthe five-round carrier on the
collapsible M4-style stock holds
ammunition at the ready.
REMINGTON
www.remington.com
Model: 870 Tactical Express
Action: Semi
Gauges: 12
Chamber: 3 inches
Chokes: Tactical Remington Choke
Capacity: 7+1
Barrel Length: 18.5 inches
Special Features: Tactical Remington
choke, rifle-style sights
MSRP: $572
Description:
The Remington 870 is the shotgun by
which other pump-action shotguns are
judged. Its reliable action is field-proven,
and here its outfitted with synthetic
stocks and an industry-standard 18.5-
inch barrel. The tubular magazine holds
1
1
2
3
$459
BENELI
$572
2
$637
MOSSBERG
buyer s
Guide
FIREARMS
BERETTA
www.berettausa.com
Model: PX4 Storm Full Size
Action: DA/SA
Caliber: .40sw
Capacity: 14+1
Barrel Length: 4 inches
Special Features: Ergonomic styling,
improved balance, accessory rail
MSRP: $550
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Description:
Beretta has several families of defensive pistols, including the
PX4 Storm family, which includes sub-compact, compact, full
size and Special Duty (extra-full-size in .45acp) models in
each of the three major defensive calibers. Full-size PX4 Storm
pistol magazines work interchangeably in other PX4 Storm ver-
sions of the same caliber, as well as in same-caliber Cx4 Storm
carbinesa plus for those who value magazine interchange-
ability between pistol and carbine. The Storm pistol offers simi-
lar features to their 92/96 series pistols, but with shorter barrel
for improved balance and reduced weight, and slightly different
ergonomics to suit different shooters.
DAN WESSON
www.cz-usa.com
Model: Titan
Action: SA
Caliber: 10mm
Capacity: 14+1
Barrel Length: 5 inches
Special Features: High-capacity 1911
design, custom trigger and slide fitting
MSRP: $3,829
Description:
This rugged, hand-fit combat pistol is
designed to cross over between competitive
and practical use, offering fully adjustable
night sights and an accessory rail thats ready
for lights and lasers. This 1911-pattern pistol
is a truly custom handgun: it packs 14 rounds
of 10mm ammo into each magazine, features
competitive edge components like the
undercut trigger guard, skeletonized trigger
and hammer, and has an incredibly accurate
bull barrel. This is a serious gun for serious
defensive work... that might also win you
some matches.
KEL-TEC
www.keltecweapons.com
Model: PF9
Action: DAO
Caliber: 9mm
Capacity: 7+1
Barrel Length: 3.1 inches
Special Features: Accessory rail,
magazine includes finger rest
MSRP: $333
Description:
Light, slim and compact for easy conceal-
ment, these virtues are best used to fit this
compact 9mm to the smaller hands within
your household. It will accept +P personal
defense ammunition, though Kel-Tec
recommends against continuous use of
it in practice. The included magazine
features a handy finger rest that helps even
shooters with medium to large hands get a
comfortable grip, and the accessory rail is
ready for lights or lasers for defensive use
at night.
TAURUS
www.taurususa.com
Model: Judge 4510TKR-3MAG
Action: DA
Caliber: .45 Colt/.410 Bore
Capacity: 5
Barrel Length: 3 inches
Special Features: Fires shotshells, slugs
and .45 Colt bullets interchangeably
MSRP: $695
Description:
This double action revolver has been a darling
of personal defense magazines and instruc-
tors since its introduction a few years ago
and the original Taurus Judge kicked off a
revolution in .410 shotshell personal defense
loads optimized for its 3-inch barrel. After the
initial skepticism wore off, its innovative con-
cept earned it solid footing in the tough per-
sonal protection market. Its rifled barrel is
grooved in such a manner as spin stabilizes
.45 Colt rounds and shotshell slugs, and also
disperses shot in a useful spreadread, not
too loose at pistol combat distances. Shot is
less likely to penetrate your walls and pose
hazards to family members than a .45 Colt
slug, and the ability to score multiple buck-
shot hits from a single pull of the trigger
even if you miss center mass just a little bit
makes this an appealing choice for home
defense.
5
6
7
5
$3,829
DAN WESSON
4
$550
BERETTA
6
$333
KEL-TEC
7
$695
TAURUS

98
Well-trained
armed citizens
working
together can
stop these mass
murderers and
help save lives.
Alon Stivi
DIG DEEPER
For more information log on to:
www.DirectMeasures.com
www.TacticalPistol.com
www.ACTCERT.com.
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99
TS A SAD AND FRIGHTENING FACT OF LIFE.
MASS SHOOTINGS CONTINUE TO OCCUR,
AND THE RISK OF TERROR ATTACK ON U.S.
SOIL REMAINS SERIOUS. SCHOOLS, HOSPI-
TALS, PLACES OF WORSHIP, MOVIE THE-
ATERS, MALLS, STADIUMS, FAIRS AND
OTHER PUBLIC PLACES ARE ALL POTENTIAL
TARGETS. NO ONE KNOWS WHERE AND WHEN
THE NEXT ATTACK WILL OCCUR.
Would you know what to do if the shooting erupts next
to you? Would you use your concealed carry weapon to
save yourself and others? Do you know how?
None of us should ever have to face a violent killer in
our lifetime. No one deserves to be a victim. Yet, this type
of violence does happen, and it is more commonplace than
we would like to believe. Our law enforcement cannot
prevent every possible attack, and counting on others to
save us does not always work. We must be prepared
to take action to save ourselves!
CARRY FOR PERSONAL
PROTECTION
Carrying a gun for personal protection
carries with it a great deal of responsibility.
In the majority of jurisdictions across the
United States, the use of deadly force
is justified as a last resort under
extreme conditions when there
is reasonable fear of death or
grave bodily injury. In general,
deadly force is defined as any
physical force that a person
knows, or should know, to
pose a substantial risk of
death or serious bodily
harm to another person.
SURVIVE
THE CHAOS
By Alon Stivi
Terror AND Mass Shooting Countermeasures for Armed Citizens

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100
SHOOTER
While law enforcement officers are permitted to use
deadly force in certain circumstances when attempting
to enforce the law, it is illegal for private citizens to use
deadly force unless it meets the specific requirements
set out by their state in circumstances of self-defense or
defense of another person. These laws can vary from
state to state, but in general, most laws are designed
around whats considered "reasonable and necessary"
force based on what the state deems a reasonable per-
son would do under the same circumstances.
Anyone who has been in combat or involved in life-
and-death situations knows that we undergo significant
psychophysiological changes related to the activation of
the flight-or-fight mechanism. These autonomic (non-vol-
untary) reactions of the sympathetic nervous system
(SNS) result in severe disruption of motoric skills and
distortions of our ability to process information (sensory
exclusion). Most notably, we will experience target fixa-
tion (also known as tunnel vision).
Its important to remember that these changes affect
everyone involved, including the perpetrator(s). Research
has shown that vision provides about 80-percent of the
information we process during emergencies. We also know
that our field of vision narrows down by about 50-percent
when shooting. This phenomenon is further exacerbated in
low-light conditions (during which most firefights occur).
In other words, the active shooters vision will always be
impaired during his attack. During the shooting, they only
see the targets in front of them (or in their sights). They
have no peripheral vision and cannot perceive anything
above, below, behind or on their sides. Neither can they
hear anything over the gunfire and screams.
This represents an important tactical advantage to those
brave enough to intervene. Those of us who can act swiftly
and with determination can close the range, flank the
shooter and attack by surprise. A counterattack can be
accomplished using any means available, like improvised
weapons, a concealed firearm or an edge weapon.
STIVIS RESUM
AN ACTIVE
SHOOTING:
DEFINED
It is a continuing
forcible felony
It is premeditated
and predatory
violence
It is a systematic
attack on specific
targets (hit lists)
It is a dynamic
situation (shooter
continues to move
throughout the area)
It is an on-going
threat of great
bodily injury (GBI) or
death until stopped
Alon Stivi is a countert-
errorism specialist and
POST-certified law
enforcement trainer who
emigrated from Israel
more than 20 years ago.
He served in the elite
unit of the IDF.
He has taught close-
combat tactics to the
U.S. Navy SEAL CQB
instructors and currently
teaches counterterror-
ism courses funded by
the Department of
Homeland Security.
He serves as a Terrorism
Liaison officer with the
Los Angeles Sheriffs
Department and is certi-
fied by the Department
of Justice (DOJ) in digni-
tary security/protection.
He has coordinated pro-
tective details for digni-
taries and traveling
executives in more than
30 countries and pro-
tected Fortune 500
executives and digni-
taries such as Israeli
Prime Minister Ehud
Barak and Warren Buf-
fett, among others.
He is a range safety offi-
cer and teaches per-
sonal protection and
advanced firearm tactics
courses nationwide.
Unfortunately, mass
shootings continue to
occur, and the risk of
terror attack in the U.S.
remains serious, says
Alon Stivi (above).
the
active
shooters
vision will
always be
impaired
during his
attack. This
represents
an important
tactical
advantage to
those brave
enough to
intervene.
Alon Stivi
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101
Our law enforcement cannot prevent every possi-
ble attack, and counting on others to save us does
not always work. Alon Stivi, counterterrorism specialist
Such tactics could have undoubtedly been
used during the public shooting of Rep. Gabrielle
Giffords of Arizona, during which the shooter was
a few feet away from bystanders. The vision of the
shooter at the movie theater in Aurora, Col-
orado, was severely impaired due to darkness and
his use of a gas mask, and he could have been
flanked and tackled (or shot) from either side by
people who were outside his field of fire.
Of course, shooting a terrorist in a crowded
environment is a challenging task. We must exer-
cise extreme caution not to hit unintended targets
(innocent bystanders) in the foreground or back-
ground. As such, the traditional method of shoot-
ing into the central mass (body) is not likely to
work for the following reasons:
Suspect may use cover (body not visible)
Suspect may use body armor (body pro-
tected)
Suspect may use a hostage as human shield
(body hidden by others)
Suspect may use an explosive vest that could
detonate (suicide bomber)
Suspect may not die immediately and con-
tinue to shoot when down (limited incapacitation)
So what is the solution? Simple. A precision
shot to the cerebellum (head shot), resulting in
immediate incapacitation. Attaining this level of
precision under pressure requires advanced
firearm training by an experienced combat shoot-
ing instructor (www.TacticalPistol.com).
Active shooters and terrorists have no hesita-
tion whatsoever about pulling the trigger. By com-
parison, we must have complete confidence in our
decision to shoot and will be held accountable for
every round fired. The fundamental rules of safe
shooting are never shoot through walls, shrubs,
curtains and never shoot toward sound, silhouette
or light.
Theres no margin for error when the shooter
is moving within a crowd and in close proximity to
others. Rapidly locating and identifying the
shooter in a high-density (crowded) environment
is a serious challenge. See the sidebar for identify-
ing active shooter threats in a crowd.
RESPONDING TO
THE CHAOS
In the chaos typical to mass violence incidents,
responders may be mistaken for the perpetrators.
If not identified in time, such mistaken identity
could have disastrous consequences (tactically,
legally and morally).
HOW TO ID AN ACTIVE SHOOTER
Focus on individuals who appear to be moving
tactically and/or carrying a weapon (bag).
Look for the hands holding or hiding a weapon
(behind the back, in garment, etc.)
Watch the movement of the crowd and who is
moving away from the individual.
Listen to the sound of gunfire and to the direc-
tion from which it is coming
Follow the trail of violence (victims, debris,
blood, bullet holes, etc.)
In many cases, there may be multiple
armed people responding to the attack. This
includes, but is not limited to, other con-
cealed carry citizens, undercover law enforce-
ment personnel, off-duty police officers, and,
of course, the law enforcement first respon-
ders (LEFR).
In addition to identifying the shooter(s)
accurately, it is also critical that responders
clearly identify one another. Be prepared to
identify yourself to other responders immedi-
ately following the shooting. If possible, stay
behind cover, re-holster your weapon and
keep your hands clearly visible while verbally
In an active shooting,
multiple weapons are
typically employed,
the suspect has no
desire to surrender
and most of these
incidents are over in
less than 10 minutes.
P
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102
identifying yourself. Expect to be treated as
a suspect and comply with instructions
given by responding officers.
Moving toward the sound of gunfire is
unnatural, and its in complete contrast to
the human instinct of self-preservation.
Anyone who is willing to do so to save oth-
ers should be honored for his sacrifice and
bravery. Such incidents draw a lot of media
attention, which have been less than favor-
able to gun owners in the past. It is highly
recommended that you stay away from
media exposure in the aftermath of a
shooting. Avoid being interviewed on radio
or appearing on television regarding your
involvement with the incident. The result-
ing publicity could expose you to harass-
ment and lawsuits, as well as put you and
your family in danger of retaliation.
WELL-TRAINED, ARMED
We are all exposed to the possibility of
facing an active shooter or a terrorist
someday. We are also accountable for one
another. Doing nothing to prepare is
unethical and unreasonable.
As Americans, we do not cower, and
we fight for what is right. A mass murderer
killing innocent men, women and children is
wrong and must be stopped. The right to
bear arms guarantees that we have the abil-
ity to do so if we must. Well-trained armed
citizens working together can stop these
mass murderers and help save lives.
Alon Stivi is CEO of Direct Measures Inter-
national, a company providing security training,
consulting and protective services to busi-
nesses, law enforcement and military.
80
Research has shown
that vision provides
this percentage of
the information we
process during
emergencies.
50
Our field of vision
narrows down by
this percentage
when shooting.
FACTORS COMMONLY
ASSOCIATED WITH
ACTIVE SHOOTER
ATTACKS
Multiple weapons employed
Lengthy planning and preparation
Suspect has no desire to surrender
Most of these incidents are over in less
than 10 minutes
Suspect has no concern for own safety
or threat of capture
Suspect almost never take hostages and
does not want to negotiate
Suspect will engage targets of opportu-
nity while searching for intended targets
Suspect desires to kill and obtain a high
body count before intervention (mass
murder)
Law enforcement can-
not prevent every pos-
sible attack, which is
why citizens must be
prepared to take action
to save themselves,
says Alon Stivi, a coun-
terterrorism specialist.
KEY NUMBERS
P
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SHOOTER

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104
T
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By Kristin Webb-Hollering
How To Create Your Own Flotation Device
OU AWAKE TO THE MOURNFUL CRY OF SEAGULLS.
YOU SIT UP, LOOK AROUND AT SOME OF THE LUSH-
EST VEGETATION AND THE MOST PRISTINE BEACH
YOUVE EVER SEEN AND REALIZE YOURE IN PAR-
ADISE EVEN IF YOURE ALONE IN THE MIDDLE OF
THE PACIFIC. THE 45-FOOT SWELLS THAT RIPPED YOUR
CRUISE SHIP INTO PIECES SHATTERED YOUR VACATION,
AND NOW YOU FIND YOURSELF HERE.
Okay, unless youre the next action star, the chances of being trapped on
an island are small, but there are many situations in which you might have to
cross dangerous waters in the wild. Sometimes understanding the dangers and
knowing how to react can mean the difference between life and death. If you
have little or no resources available, it doesnt mean you have to be stuck on
the shore.
Consider these creative ideas to float across the waves to safety before
you are cast away.
Y
SINK OR SWIM
You may never find yourself on an island, but
you could find yourself here. Be prepared.

105

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YOUR OPTIONS
If you must cross water to get to a
safe place, there are many things that can
be turned into your lifesaver. Clothes,
driftwood, empty containers, or even
sticks and grasses can be formed into a
raft. If you arent lucky enough to have an
American Red Cross-certified flotation
device, the Red Cross suggests these
great alternatives.
CLOTHES
Clothes are usually the handiest and
in warm weather are not necessary to
cross water and retain body temperature.
If youre wearing pants, they can be easily
and quickly modeled into a floating tube.
First, tie the leg openings, pull up the
zipper and button the waist. Next, wet
the pants a little. Rapidly swing the pants
to inflate with air, close the waistband
tightly and quickly submerge them in the
water. Consequently, you have the per-
fect inflatable to hold you above water.
Another alternative is to keep your
clothing on and inflate them on your
body. If you have a shirt on, you can
blow into it down the neckline after
securing it at the waistline, either by tying
or tucking it into your pants, says Janelle
King, swimming instructor and former
Red Cross-certified lifeguard. The shirt
will expand and help you float for short
intervals.
MILK JUGS, BAGS
Many times after a flood or hurricane,
trash litters the edge of water that must
be crossed to get to safety. Several of
these castaway items can be utilized to
ford a river, lake or stream in your path.
Plastic milk gallon jugs filled with air
will bear you for a while or at least to
cover a short distance. Grocery bags
securely sealed, filled with air and tied at
the waist act as a tube. These are strewn
everywhere and easily kept in a pocket
for later uses.
Lastly, most other plastic or light
metal containers like those used for
gasoline or detergents can be closed
and filled with air are possibilities for
a speedy escape.
RAFT-BUILDING
101
In the wilderness
and along most shore-
lines, tall sturdy
grasseslike cattails
and American dune
grassabound. These
types of grasses are
thick and strong, and
they can be used as
your rope to tie.
Sadly, along most
rivers and sea banks,
a plethora of trash
and waste debris,
both natural and arti-
ficial, cover the area.
This survivalists
treasure can be sifted
through to find the
perfect base for your
raft.
If you want to
make it particularly
buoyant and can find
them, tying a couple
of milk jugs to your
base will really keep
it above the water. If
grasses are not
available, shoelaces,
socks, belts, and
necklaces can also
make great rope.
Securing your
driftwood or other
large object with the
homemade ropes can
take you across the
waves to safety.
Split trees, logs, and large branches
found in the woods can be thatched
together or fashioned into a skiff.
Where theres a will, theres a
way. Rafts can be made out of
a number of items.

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106
COLD WATER
CAN HASTEN
PROBLEMS
If youre forced into a
situation in which you must
stay afloat in water to sur-
vive, always take into
account the temperature of
the water.
Flotation devices and
the ability to swim are help-
ful, but if the water is very
cold or hot, neither of these
lifesaving essentials will
matter unless you know
how to adapt your body to
the water temperature.
When youre crossing a
cold body of water, keeping
your head above the water
line really can save your
life. Many great swimmers
drown while treading water
because they get cold
water in their ears and lose
their equilibrium, says
Janelle King, swimming
instructor and former Red
Cross certified lifeguard.
Its also important to
wear your basic clothing
because it holds the
warmth close to your body.
Many types of clothing are
good at trapping air and
will aid in buoyancy, King
says.
Whether youre clutch-
ing a log or treading water,
its vital to control your heat
loss by grouping survivors
together in huddles to
share body heat and pro-
tecting your high heat loss
areas like extremities,
groin and head, the Maine
Island Trail Association rec-
ommends.
Unless you must use a
piece of your clothing or
shoes for a flotation option,
keep it on your body to aid
against hypothermia and
other cold-water related
ailments.
Be resourceful, and youll
find a way to survive.
SOURCES
Maine Island Trail Association (www.mita.org)
American Red Cross (www.redcross.org)
American Whitewater (www.americanwhitewater.org)
Wilderness Survival (www.wilderness-survival.net)
WHAT TO DO IN
HOT WATER
Luckily, steamy sea
temperatures are not as
treacherous for those in a
life-or-death situation as
cold water is.
With hot water, the
problem is the body over-
heating and the influence of
bacteria, but taking off your
clothes can help. Pants and
coats can be turned into
rafts and utilized to hold
your head above water.
Usually, warm water
comes in the form of salty
ocean tides, so the urge to
drinkespecially in the
sunshould be avoided at
all costs. If you can form a
piece of clothing into a pro-
tective covering for your
head to shield yourself from
the rays, that is optimal.
Many great swimmers drown while treading water because
they get cold water in their ears and lose their equilibrium.
Janelle King, swimming instructor and former Red Cross lifeguard
NATURAL RESOURCES
If hiking through the wilderness or surfing along the shore are your
cup of tea, many natural resources make excellent floatation devices.
Split trees, logs and large branches found in the woods can be
thatched together or fashioned into a skiff. Even small pieces of a broken
boat, catamaran or surfboard will carry you to safety if you find yourself
stuck out at sea. Although you may see it as a movie myth, escaping on
the old standby of driftwood is typically a safe way to shore.
BE CREATIVE, SEARCH
Whether youre alone in the wild or stranded in the middle of the
ocean, theres always a road to safety. When youre down to the wire and
your path to life means crossing water, look at your surroundings, check
your belongings and survey the area. An answer or clue to your survival is
within reach if you know where to look.

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108
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Dennis Croft lived off the
grid on BLM land until
rangers chased him away.

109
HEN AMC PREMIERED ITS
HIT SHOW SMALL TOWN
SECURITY, VIEWERS NOT
ONLY GOT A GLIMPSE INTO
THE INNER-WORKINGS OF
THE FASCINATING AND
QUIRKY OFFICE OF GEOR-
GIA-BASED JJK SECURITY,
THEY ALSO GOT TO HEAR
ABOUT THE EXPERIENCES
OF ONE OF THE SHOWS
STARS, LIEUTENANT DEN-
NIS CROFT, WHO LIVED OFF
THE GRID AS A SURVIVALIST
LONG BEFORE WORKING IN
THE SECURITY FIELD.
CROFT SHARED DETAILS OF
HIS EXPERIENCES WITH
AMERICAN SURVIVAL GUIDE,
GIVING OUR READERS SOME
INSIGHT INTO WHAT IT
TAKES TO LIVE OFF THE
GRID.
W
LESSONS
LEARNED
Small Town Securitys Dennis Croft Is A Former
Survivalist Who Learned Some Valuable Lessons
While Living Off The Grid
By Torrey Kim



RETURN TO PRIMITIVE WAYS
Following a career in the Air Force, Croft decided to live off the grid after studying the plight of
the Native Americans. I became disheartened with the government after learning more about the
Native American condition and finding out the way they were treated and the lies that the govern-
ment had told us, Croft says.
Croft decided to remove himself from the modern environment and live more like a Native
American. I went to a primitive living skills school for two weeks, where I learned the basics, he says.
At the school, Croft got an in-depth crash course in how to survive in the wild with nothing no
modern equipment, groceries or personal care products. Basically, the school wanted you to figure
out how you would live if you had no choice you had to survive by learning the most basic primitive
skills, he notes.
After gleaning a vast amount of knowledge from his instructors, Croft decided to live off the grid
on a permanent basis, settling in a mountainous area of Wyoming on a plot owned by the Bureau of
Land Management (BLM).
GO DEEP
What Croft learned after setting up his new mountain homestead was that no matter how
remote you believe your site is, youre not undiscoverable. On the BLM site, the rangers would flesh
you out every two weeks, he says. It didnt matter where you went or how deep into the woods
you thought you were, the rangers would find you and ask you to leave every two weeks. It wasnt
conducive to a living situation.
The reality, Croft realized, was that almost nowhere was safe from the authorities, so he would
have to leave the BLM land permanently. Unless you go deep into the Ozarks or something, youre
going to be found, he says. If you want to not be found, youve got to go deep. Croft then made
his way to the plains of Nebraska, where he lived on private land for several months.

buyers
Guide
BACKPACKS
C e nt ra l To
S urv i va l
K
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EDITORS CHOICE
CUTCO
www.cutco.com
Model: Gut hook hunting knife
Key Features: Sharp, durable,
game dressing features
Suggested retail: $99
The Right Knife Can Provide You With Food,
Defense And Shelter
ONE ITEM. JUST ONE THING.
ASK ANY SURVIVALIST WHAT ONE ITEM THEYD BRING ON A
DESERTED ISLAND, AND THE ANSWER WILL UNDOUBTEDLY
BE THAT THEYD BRING THEIR TRUSTY KNIFE.
A knife can be the difference between death and survival, because it can
offer self-defense, it can cut branches for shelter and can seize wildlife to pro-
vide you with food. With knives being central to survival, check out a few of
these recommended blades to add to your kit.
110
THE IMPORTANCE OF BELT CARRY
Most survivalists find that keeping a knife on their belt is
immeasurably helpful, because they can reach down, unclip it and
use it with just one hand. If your knife didnt come with a belt
sheath, you can buy a separate one from a variety of vendors that
can fit your knife.
GW_ASG4_BG_KNIVES 2/18/13 12:58 AM Page 110
111
EMBRACE PRIMITIVE LIVING
Croft suggests that anyone considering a life off the grid should learn primitive living
skills, which can not only help you survive, but can allow you a way to make a living.
For example, you can produce leather and sell it all from the woods if you learn to brain
tan using the brain of the animal you slay, he says. You can make your clothes that way and
make a living selling the leather.
In addition, primitive living skills can allow you to learn how to make your own tools, find
food and water, create a shelter, make fire, create bows and arrows, and perfect animal
tracking. These skills will keep you alive in the wild. Just ask Dennis Croft.
To see more of Lieutenant Croft, tune in to season two of Small Town Security, airing on AMC in
the third quarter of 2013.
CHARCOAL 101
As most survivalists know, you cant live
for long without water, so it should be a pri-
mary concern when setting up your site.
Although some survivalists can safely drink
running water from a cold stream, you should
treat your water before drinking it to stay on
the safe side, says Dennis Croft.
I would recommend that survivalists
carry charcoal, he suggests. If you dont
have charcoal, you can make it, and its a
great life-saving material because it can
purify and filter organisms. Chemical warfare
gear such as gas masks have charcoal in
them to keep out the harmful substances,
and its very powerful.
To make it on your own in the wild, you
should burn several pieces of wood in your
fire until they are so completely charred that
you can poke a stick into the center of the
pieces.
Youll then remove the charcoal from the
fire. Dig a hole and place the charcoal into it,
then bury it for a few days. Once you remove
it, youve got charcoal thats ready to use.
Youll want to crush it before packing it away
for use in your water filtration system.
Charcoal
is a great
life-saving
material
because it
can purify
and filter
organisms.
Lt. Dennis Croft



After his experience
with the BLM, Croft
moved to the plains
of Nebraska and
lived there for
several months.
JUST HOW POWERFUL IS CHARCOAL?
Charcoal has been known as a filtration chemical for
centuries. In the 1830s, a French scientist drank a lethal
amount of strychnine in front of his colleagues at the
French Academy of Medicine. He survived, however,
because he had also ingested activated charcoal, which
reduced the toxicity of the strychnine.
DO YOUR HOMEWORK
If youre like Lt. Dennis Croft and you want to set
up your home on Bureau of Land Management prop-
erty, get to know the rules and regulations before you
trek out into the open land, or you could be uprooted
every few weeks like he was.
Because the laws vary from state to state, check
with your destination states BLM department to get a
copy of the guidelines. You can see all of the states
facts, including locations and length of stay allowed,
at www.blm.gov.
ONE
First, learn the basics
from a primitive
learning school.
TWO
If youre on a BLM site,
expect rangers to find
you and chase you off
the land.
THREE
The skills you learn
from a school will allow
you to make your own
tools, find food and
water, create a shelter
make fire, create bows
and arrows, and perfec
animal tracking.
FOUR
Treat your water
before you drink it.
FIVE
Carry charcoal so you

LESSONS LEARNED PART II
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112
Built Winter
Tough
WINTER MAY BE THE
COLDEST TIME OF YEAR, BUT
THAT DOESNT MEAN YOUR
BACKPACK CONTENTS HAVE
TO BE. SAFEGUARD YOUR
VALUABLE ITEMS DURING
YOUR SNOWY ADVENTURE
INTO THE WILDERNESS WITH
THESE TOP-OF-THE-LINE WIN-
TER BACKPACKS.
P
A
C
K
S
EDITORS CHOICE
FORGE SURVIVAL
SUPPLY
www.forgesurvivalsupply.com
Model: Silver Bug-Out
Key Features: High-capacity,
lightweight, pre-filled with two
weeks of survival gear
MSRP: $1,105.75
Durable Backpacks That Will Make
It Through The Cold Of Winter

113
FORGE SURVIVAL
SUPPLY
www.forgesurvivalsupply.com
Model: Silver Bug-Out
Key features: High-capacity, lightweight, pre-
filled with two weeks of survival gear
MSRP: $1,105.75
Description:
Dont let its hefty price scare youthe Silver
Bug-Out bag is worth every penny! This cream-
of-the-crop backpack is perfect if youre out on
your own for two weeks without the opportunity
for resupplyit comes pre-filled with all the
survival gear youll ever need. Its contents
include stormproof matches, saw, whistle, fire
paste, poncho and more! This pack is a bar-
gainyou save $170 in gear alone. If youre
involved in a Survival in Hostile Terrain Follow-
ing (SHTF) catastrophic event, dont leave home
without this packit could very well save your
life!
Cool Features:
SOTech Mission Pack XP Coyote
Gerber Profile Series
Starflash Survival Mirror 2x3
Leatherman Wave
Blastmatch Firestarter
U Dig It Shovel
Basic Survival Fishing Kit
And More!
Did You Know?
This features $1,279.75 worth of gear for the
price of $1,105.75. If youre a serious back-
packer, this should be your pack of choice.
CABELA'S
www.cabelas.com
Model: XPG Ridgeline 25-Liter Pack
Key Features: Adjustable sternum straps, lum-
bar support, adjustable shove-it-style pocket
MSRP: $60
Description:
If youre looking for an all-in-one backpack and
hydration system look no further than the XPG
Ridgeline 25-Liter Pack. Not only is it hydration-
system compatible, it can withstand the cold of
winter thanks to its 210-denier polyester pro-
tective lining. Dont let its lack of size fool
youthis high-capacity pack can hold up to
1,598 cubic inches of winter gear. Best of all
you wont even feel the weight thanks to its
built-in side compression straps that distribute
the weight evenly and deliver load stability.
Theres plenty of space to store all your gear
there are two immense storage compartments,
plus two stow side pockets for anything you
might have left over.
Best of all you
wont even feel the
weight thanks to its
built-in side compres-
sion straps that dis-
tribute the weight
evenly
buyer s
Guide
PACKS
1
2
1
$1,105.75
FORGE SURVIVAL SUPPLY
2
$60
CABELAS

114
BLACK DIAMOND
EQUIPMENT
www.blackdiamondequipment.com
Model: Outlaw AvaLung Pack
Key Features: Insulated hydration sleeve, easy access
via front and pack, diagonal and A-frame ski carrying
options
MSRP: $260
Description:
Serious adventurers looking to scale treacherous moun-
tain peaks should make the Outlaw AvaLung their back-
pack of choice. This handy pack isnt just useful for stor-
age, it can be a lifesaver as well. The integrated AvaLung
improves your chances of survival by gathering oxygen
from nearby snow. This pack is versatilewhether
youre hiking or travelling by skis, youll be able to easily
move around thanks to the ergoACTIV suspension. Back-
pack contents are always within graspthe avy-tool
organizer pocket and back panel are easily accessible if
you feel a chill and want to grab extra layers.
ALPS MOUNTAINEERING
www.alpsmountaineering.com
Model: Orizaba 3300
Key Features: High-capacity, fully-padded suspension,
hydration pocket & port
MSRP: $130
Orizaba 3300 isnt just a name. This heavy-duty pack can
actually fit 3,300 cubic feet of winter gear. If that isnt
impressive, you can fill this high-capacity pack until its
bursting at the seams. The top has a built-in extension
with a spindrift collar so you can fit every last winter
item. Never have a sore back again with its aluminum
frame stay and HDPE frame sheet, which provide great
support. The shoulders come with padding load lifters for
added support. Theres even an internal hydration pocket
to carry plenty of water along your long trek.
3
4
buyer s
Guide
PACKS
4
$130
ALPS
MOUNTAINEERING
3
$39.95
BLACK DIAMOND
EQUIPMENT

115
DEUTER SPORT
www.deuter.com
Model: Aircontact PRO 65 + 15 SL
Key Features: Large capacity for carrying heavy
loads, durable, suspension system for back support
MSRP: $320
Description:
Aircontact PRO 65 + 15 SL is the perfect heavy-duty
all season backpack. Not only is it durable enough
to withstand the icy cold of winter, the Vari Flex
system makes carrying heavy loads seem light as a
feather. You no longer need to compromise durabil-
ity for mobilitythe packs mobile hip fins follow
your direction, allowing you to traverse the tough-
est of paths. No need to worry about soggy gear, as
the pack comes intact with a handy rain cover. The
suspension system is so comfortable youll feel like
youre wearing nothing at all. Your back and shoul-
ders will feel totally at ease.
The suspension system
is so comfortable
youll feel like youre
wearing nothing at all.
CRAGHOPPERS
www.craghoppers.com
Model: Kiwi Pro Backpack 30L
Key Features: Spacious, durable,
cooling aerator panel, water-repellent finish
MSRP: $65
Description:
Kiwi Pro is one versatile pack. It comes in three
fantastic sizes15L, 22L and 30Lfor backpack-
ers of all skill levels. Serious backpackers will want
to pick up the 30-liter version, as its roomy enough
to hold everything youll ever need on a week-long
backpacking expedition, including your trusty
sleeping bag, and comes with a handy on-board
storage system for superior organization. Dont let
this packs colorful name fool you. Its durable
enough to bear the toughest of winter backpacking
expeditions. It comes with a host of fantastic fea-
tures, including a hydration bladder pocket, elasti-
cated expandable side pockets for extra gear, chest
straps for added stability and an internal zipped
organizer.
EAGLE CREEK
www.eaglecreek.com
Model: Loche 70L
Key Features: Large capacity,
ightweight, durable
MSRP: $225
Description:
Seventy liters never felt so light! Loche 70L is the
ultimate hybrid backpack. Not only is it high capac-
ty, its lightweight, so you wont strain your back
traversing those steep hills. Packing your gear has
never been so easy. Eagle Creeks patented Pack-It
System makes organizing your bag a snap. Worried
about people or animals rummaging through your
gear? Rest at ease, thanks to the packs Central
Lock Point, which secures the pack with one sim-
ple, yet secure lock. The pack has plenty of storage,
ncluding zippered side pockets, perfect for your
mobile phone or matches. Eagle Creek stands
behind its quality backpacks. They come with a life-
time warranty.
6
7
5
6
$65
CRAGHOPPERS
7
$225
EAGLE CREEK
Packing your
gear has never
been so easy.
$320
DEUTER SPORT 5

116
GOLITE
www.golite.com
Model: M's Quest 65L
Key Features: Lightweight, durable,
internal hydration sleeve
MSRP: $270
Description:
M's Quest 65L is GoLites number one selling backpack. It
more than lives up to its name. Not only is it lightweight, it
offers the durability and support only found in smaller packs.
Trek the icy mountains without breaking a sweat with 40
pounds of gear in tow thanks to the packs lightweight mater-
ial. Its comfortable no matter how big or small the body type.
Its adjustable torso length system allows for seamless adjust-
ment to ensure your back is always at ease. La piece de
resistance is the packs LiteRail perimeter frame. Not only
does it stabilize your pack, it flawlessly transfers the weight
directly to your hips 40 pounds never felt so light!
THE NORTH FACE
www.thenorthface.com
Model: Slingshot
Key Features: Plenty of storage,
lightweight, hydration system compatible
MSRP: $75
Description:
The North Face is one of the top brands in backpack brands
for a good reason. Check it out. It offers plenty of comfort for
your back. FlexVent injection-molded shoulder straps, soft
foam back panel and hipbelt are just a few of the features
that make traveling a lot less strenuous. A 30-liter carrying
capacity may not sound like a lot, but Slingshot more than
makes up for its small size. Bungee cords allow for carrying
gear of all sizes and generous mesh front pockets stretch to
fit even your bulkiest of belongings. If you want to take a
break from Mother Nature and catch up on your e-mail, feel
at ease knowing your laptop and iPad are safe and sound in
the packs spacious main compartment.
8
9
WINTER
BACKPACKING:
KEEP THE
CHILL OUT
Now that you have the essen-
tial winter gear for staying
warm, its important to under-
stand how your body loses
heat to avoid freezing to
death. The following tips are
handy so you can enjoy many
hours in the snow, instead of
being cooped up at the lodge
with hypothermia.
Body Temperature: Body
heat is lost in one of four
ways, which are conduction,
convection, evaporation and
radiation. For example, you
could catch a chill through
damp socks, sitting on a log,
lack of proper head gear or
simply by breathing. Be sure
to consume extra calories.
Your body burns calories at
a faster rate during cold
weather.
Keep Dry and Stay Well
Hydrated: Just because
its cold outside doesnt
mean you should avoid
drinking water. Be sure
to drink plenty of water
to avoid dehydration.
Staying dry means
wearing breathable
layers and waterproof
gear. Perspiration and
damp socks can quickly
cause a loss of body
temperature. Wool socks
and clothing are great
because theyre warm
and dry quickly.
Camping Gear: Be sure to
bring a tent thats snow-,
rain- and wind-resistant.
You never know what
youll come up against!
When entering your tent
be sure to remove your
boots outside the tent.
The last thing you want
to do is track cold snow
into your living quarters.
buyer s
Guide
PACKS
$270
GOLITE 8

117
$75
THE NORTH FACE 9
ESSENTIAL GEAR FOR
WINTER BACKPACKING
Winter is the coolest and most
unpredictable season of all. One
day the weather can be a mild 32
F, the next the mercury can
plunge to sub-zero and accompa-
nied by a walloping blizzard. Dont
forget about the snow and ice
(unless youre lucky enough to
live in Nevada). Its important to
pack the right gear to stay warm
and avoid hypothermia and frost
bite.
Clothing: To keep your core
body warm, youll need to keep
your body temperature at the
recommended 98.6 F. Dressing
in layers is the secret to retain-
ing your body heat. Start with
breathable long underwear and
an undershirt to absorb perspi-
ration (avoid cotton, youll get a
cold sweat). Your second layer
acts as an insulator. Finally,
your exterior layer (winter coat,
snow pants, gloves and hat)
protects you from the snow,
water and wind chill. Gor-Tex is
great for winter. Not only is it
breathable, its also waterproof.
Be sure to wear warm socks
and waterproof boots. Youll get
cold very quickly with wet feet.
Snow Gear: Before embarking
on your winter excursion, its a
good idea to plan ahead of time
for the backpacking gear youll
require. For example, if youre
cross-country skiing, youll
need your skis and ski boots;
other useful gear includes an
ice axe, snowshoes and cram-
pons. It doesnt hurt to bring
along a snow shovel and flares.
Youll want to have them handy
to dig out from avalanches.
Winter Equipment: Its crucial
to pack gear that can with-
stand the cold of winter. Be
sure to pack your warmest
sleeping bag. You dont want
to wake up in the middle of
the night freezing in your tent.
Each sleeping bag is rated for
warmth, so be sure to grab
one to withstand the coldest
temperatures. Sleeping liners
are good for added warmth on
especially cold nights.

118
W
I
L
D
I WONDER ABOUT THE TREES.
WHY DO WE WISH TO BEAR,
FOREVER THE NOISE OF THESE
MORE THAN ANOTHER NOISE.
Robert Frost, as we all do, had an appreciation and love for the wilderness.
But we all should have the utmost respect for it, too. Because, at any given
moment, it can grab us from behind, shake us violently and turn our world
upside down.
In This Section
Fishing without a pole
Where to find fish in abundance
Best bait tips
How to build a shelter
Checklist of materials needed
for construction of a shelter

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STAY ALIVE NO MATTER HOW DEEP INTO THE WILD YOU VENTURE
Wi l de rne s s
F ury

119
OCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION. ANY
REAL ESTATE EXPERT WILL TELL YOU
THAT LOCATION IS EVERYTHING, AND
WHEN BUILDING A SHELTER, THE SAME
RULE APPLIES.
SHELTER BUILDING IS OFTEN KEY TO YOUR
SURVIVAL, BUT IF DONE INCORRECTLY, IT CAN
ACTUALLY LEAD TO YOUR DEMISE. FOLLOW A
FEW SIMPLE BUT ESSENTIAL TIPS AND YOUR
STRUCTURE WILL NOT ONLY KEEP YOU SAFE
FROM THE ELEMENTS BUT ALSO COMFORTABLE.
Where and How
and Other Key Tips
To Constructing a
Survival Shelter
By Abe Elias
When gathering materials for your shelter, try to
find the most materials in the smallest area to
conserve calories. You wont have pine straw at
the beach, but you will be able to find enough
nearby items to create a structure.
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SHELTER
Any real estate expert will tell you
that location is everything, and when
building a shelter, the same rule
applies. Abe Elias, survival expert
If you can prop several sticks together and hang a tarp over them,
youve created a tepeea structure that can be extremely sound in
any environment.
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LOCATION
When looking at location, youre not looking
for proximity to shopping or schools, but
instead youre seeking safety and security. When
seeking a spot to build your shelter, you should
make sure its close to your building material.
The act of building the shelter should be simple
and done in such a way that you conserve calo-
ries that youll need later for tasks such as find-
ing your dinner or creating a fire.
In addition, you want to build your shelter in
an area thats naturally sheltered by the wind
from other trees or materials, but is close
enough to an open area that you can run out
and be spotted by search and rescue aircraft if
necessary. Be sure to look overhead to ensure
that no immediate dangers lurk above you, such
as dead trees or rocks that could fall on you or
mud that could slide down upon you.
You should set up your shelter on a flat
piece of land with a little rise to it. This way, if a
rainstorm arrives, the rain will have a place to go
(down the hill) and you wont find your shelter
in a pool of water. And although you dont want
to construct your shelter too far from a water
source, you also shouldnt be right next to a
creek or lake, because if a hard rain falls during
the night, you could wake up surrounded by a
wet, muddy mess.

121
SHOULD YOUR
SHELTER BE
VENTLESS?
When building your shelter, it
can be difficult to decide
whether to create venting or to
keep the seals shut. The answer
depends on your climate.
If your shelter will be in a hot
environment, you should build it
in an area where the sun wont
hit it, but with enough venting
so air can circulate. If, however,
youre in a cold climate, you
want to seal as many areas as
possible so the cold air cant
seep in.
KNOW HOW
TO INSULATE
Once youre securely inside
of your shelter, you want to cre-
ate a simple floor of padding
that will keep you from lying
directly on the ground, which
can be wet and therefore drain
your body heat.
Keep in mind, however, that
you dont want to use fresh veg-
etation for your flooring. Your
body weight will crush out the
water and your clothing will
simply absorb it, making you
very uncomfortable. Instead, use
dead grass, old pine straw, dead
leaves or dry tree bark as your
padding.
A good rule of thumb
when building a shelter is
to ensure that its about
waist-high to keep it safe
from the elements.
STRAW, WOOD
AND BRICKS
The three little pigs learned
which materials were best to
withstand an attack, but in the
case of survival, the big bad
wolf is Mother Nature. Geog-
raphy will influence your shel-
ter materials significantly. For
instance, if youre in the arctic
or the desert, it would be fruit-
less to tell you to build a debris
shelter.
Again, ensure that you con-
serve energy when selecting
building materials. Theres no
point wasting energy taking
down the perfect tree or a
ridge pole when Mother
Nature has provided one that
will do well enough and is
already lying on the ground.

122
SHELTER
The three little pigs
learned which materials
were best to withstand
an attack, but in the
case of survival, the big
bad wolf is Mother
Nature. Abe Elias
CONSTRUCTION IS KEY
You dont have to be a professional construction worker
to create a solid shelter. Construction essentially refers to the
skills that you need to build a structure, and it doesnt have to
be elaborate. For instance, you can use the theory of opposi-
tion, where the weight of two falling items actually are sup-
porting each other, like a tepee, arch or igloo. Try using nat-
ural features on the materials like ys in the branches or
stones on the ground to support uprights.
Even beginner survivalists should have a working knowl-
edge of ropework, and that includes some skills in lashing,
which refers to binding two or more materials together. If you
can lash materials together, you wont need to cut down a
tree to use it as a support. Instead, simply lash your tarp to a
living tree.
FUNCTION AND FORM
You may be envisioning yourself creating the Taj Mahal of shelters, but
in reality, your best bet is to keep your shelter small, because it will take
less energy to build and it will be easier to keep warm.
If all you have is body heat to warm your shelter, you have a better
chance to heat up an area if its small. If, instead, you are creating a fire, a
small structure will require a smaller one, therefore allowing you to have to
scavenge less wood.
A good rule of thumb when building is to create a shelter no higher
than your waist. This way, it will be safe from wind and will require fewer
supports. In addition, make sure the roof on your shelter is steep enough to
allow water to run off, but not so steep as to allow too much exposure.
Ensure that your shelter is far enough away from the open edges that you
dont get driving rain coming down on you, making for a very uncomfort-
able stay in your temporary home.
If youre in the snow, thats your
building material. Igloos can be
very secure, and you can stay
warm with the right clothing and
by locking out wind.
Dont construct your shelter too far from a water source
But, you also shouldnt be right next to a creek or lake,
because if a hard rain falls during the night it will be a
muddy mess
Your best bet is to keep your shelter small, because it
will take less energy to build and be easier to keep
warm
Construct it no higher than your waist
Make sure the roof on your shelter is steep enough to
allow water to run off but not so steep as to allow too
much exposure
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KEYSTO A
SUCCESSFUL SHELTER
Find a good location so you are safe and secure
Make sure its close to your building material
Keep it simple so you can conserve calories for
other tasks
Select a location that is naturally sheltered
from the wind
Make sure there are no immediate dangers
that lurk above you
BUILD FOR WARMTH
If youre building a shelter that will depend on fire for heat, construct it so your full body is
exposed to the fire. Youll want to make the shelter long enough so you can lie lengthwise and
have the fire next to you, warming you completely. If two people will be in the structure, place
the fire in between so you can both lie parallel to it.





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GAME FOR FISH
You dont need a fishing pole to land the
big one with these expert tips.
FISH
124
By Larry Schwartz
PIKE

125
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HO SAYS YOU NEED A FISHING
POLE? THESE IDEAS WILL WORK
HOOK, LINE AND SINKER.
Fish can be a great source of protein
for your family in any survival situation or bug-out loca-
tion. Not only will fish keep you nourished, but you will
likely find it easier to focus your food-catching efforts in
streams and lakes instead of hundreds of acres of forest,
where small game and birds reside.
There are a variety of methods you can use to nab
fish from local bodies of water and land them in your
cook pot or campfire. Some take a good deal of time and
energy to perform, but dont require much up-front
effort, while others can be set ahead of time and work for
you as you multitask.
Let the fishing begin.
w
A FISH TRAP IN
FIVE EASY PIECES
If you dont have the
materials to make a
wooden trap, you can
make one from manmade
material. Unfortunately,
its easy to find a one- or
two-liter soda bottle that
hasnt been discarded
properly, and you can
repurpose that to create a
trap.
1. Youll cut off the top
third of the bottle and
set it aside.
2. Next, find some bait
and mash it up so that it
gives off its scent in the
water.
3. Place the bait in the
bottom two-thirds of
the bottle.
4. Now push the part
you cut off into the
bottom of the bottle
with the neck/opening
pointed down.
5. You now have a
plastic fish trap which
the fish can swim into
through the large open-
ing but wont be able to
get back out through
the neck of the bottle.
Place the trap in an area
the fish frequent, go
away to do some other
survival chores and then
come back later to
check on dinner.
The
technique
that takes
the most
time up-front
but the least
energy
overall is
a fish trap.

126
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FISH
HOW TO FIND FISH
So, where are they? If
youre going to get fish for
dinner, the first thing you
need to know is where in
the lake or stream you will
find them. Like any wild
animal, their lives are
based on where to get
food and where to find
shelter. Following are
some ideas that will get
you started:
A structure of some
kindlike logs, rocks,
piers or even thick
plantsprovide fish some-
where to hide.
Look in weed beds or
other submerged vegeta-
tion. Weed beds are like
food courts for fish. They
provide cover for small
fish, and small fish attract
bigger fish.
Curves along the
bank or cutouts in the bank
provide more shoreline and
slower-moving water. Fish
will come here for the food
and because the swim-
ming is easier.
The entrance or exit
point for any body of water.
There will always be more
food here because the bot-
tom gets churned up a bit
from the faster moving
water, and that releases
more food. It also serves as
a funnel, which concen-
trates the fish moving
through it.
SPEAR
FISHING
For many, the first thing
that comes to mind when try-
ing to get a fish without a fish-
ing pole is Tom Hankss char-
acter in Castaway. Remem-
ber how he stalked shallow
waters with a sharp stick?
Although this can be a great
way to bring food to hand, its
the closest one to hunting;
therefore, this takes more
skill, experience, time and
energy to be successful.
One of the main chal-
lenges with this approach is an
optical illusion called refrac-
tion, which makes fish look
closer than they are. Fortu-
nately, there is a way around
this problem.
Instead of holding your
spear above the water and
thrusting it at the fish (where
the movement and splash will
give away your attack), keep
the tip of your spear under
the water and slowly work
your way through the water
until a fish swims toward you.
At that point, youll either
thrust your spear or slowly
move it toward the fish from
behind, being careful not to
move too quickly so you dont
scare it away. Make sure to
follow through to ensure you
get a good hit and pin it to the
bottom, which will help keep
it from getting away.
Although a pointy stick
can work as a spear, its better
to make something with a
barbed tip on it. Find a stick
with a little branch that you
can sharpen into a barb, or
you can tie on a barb made
from a twig or other strong,
sharp material.
Another approach is to
create a two-pronged spear by
splitting one end of the spear,
adding a twig to hold the split
ends open, and then wrapping
above and below the twig to
keep the split from expanding
and the twig from falling off.
You can also cut barbs into
the two prongs of this type of
fishing spear.
FAST FISH FACTS
Fish provide protein
and Omega-3 fatty
acid.
USING A NET
Once you locate fish or crustaceans, using a net
to gather them takes less time than spearing and not
as much energy, so its a good choice for a short-
term survival situation.
A medium-sized net is something that you can
easily keep in your packable survival kit. Look for
something one to two feet in height and three to six
feet wide with holes no larger than a half-inch in
diameter so you wont lose the smaller fish or crus-
taceans.
You can use the net in one of two ways. First,
attach sticks to either end, and hold it out in front of
you. Then lower it down to the bottom of the water
and slowly walk along, scooping up whatever might be
edible from the bottom. This is a good technique for
getting things like minnows and crayfish and small
crabs that live along the bottom.
The second method is best used when you have a
longer net, or a bend in the stream where you can
corral the fish. Stake one end of the net in place on
the shoreline and then walk the rest of the net out
into the deeper water. You can walk your end of the
net back toward the shore, making a wide arc, much
the same way that commercial fishermen use a seine
net to capture large amounts of fish.
Once you get back to shore, roll the net up on
your stick, making the corral smaller and smaller
until you can easily see what you have caught. This
method might take a few tries, but if there are a lot
of fish, this is one of the best ways to get them.
When searching for fish,
check areas near rocks,
logs or weeds.
REFRACTION
This is an optical illusion that makes
fish look closer than they are.
PROTEIN, OMEGA-3 FAT
Fish provide both of these.

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128
FISH TRAPS
The technique that takes the most
time up-front but the least energy overall
is a fish trap. The most common is the
kind you see in survival manuals and old
Boy Scout handbooks because its made
with materials you can find anywhere out-
doors.
The object is to make a pen, prefer-
ably in a narrow part of a stream or lake.
The pen should have a narrow opening
that fish can move through and a wider
area where they will be corralled, but
they will not be able to leave.
If you cant find an area that the fish
move through on their own, find a still
patch of water and put some bait in it. To
build the pen, place sticks close together
on the bottom like a picket fence, use a
log or pine bough to form a wall, or any
combination of things that will channel
the fish into the opening without letting
them exit.
PRACTICE FIRST
As with any survival skill, try out your
fishing prowess before youre placed in a
situation in which youre so hungry you
cant focus.
On your next trip to the woods, build
a spear or make some traps to see what
works for you. Keep in mind that some
of these techniques are fine in a survival
scenario, but in some regions they are ille-
gal in other situations, so you may not
want to actually spear that trout on your
trial session.
But you can practice sneaking up on it.
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SPEAR SUCCESS
Keep the tip of your
spear under the water an
slowly work your way
through the water. When
fish is near, thrust your
spear or slowly move it
toward the fish from
behind. Follow through to
ensure you get a good hi
and pin it to the bottom.


p ,
FISH
When youre
setting a trap to
catch fish, you
dont need to
get extravagant
with your bait.
You can use
corn or other
food found
on-site, such as
worms or part
of a dead ani-
mal. Youll find
that fish arent
particularly
finicky eaters.
BAIT SOURCES
A fishing net can
also get the job
done.
THE AUTHORS EXPERTISE
Larry Schwartzs writing and
seminars have included topics such
as backcountry navigation, shot
placement, wilderness survival
techniques, and backpacking/camping
skills.
He is currently putting together
a three-day basic outdoor skills
workshop to be delivered in the Mid-
Atlantic region in the spring of 2013.
SALMON
As with any survival skill, you should
try out your fishing prowess before
youre placed in a situation where youre
so hungry you cant focus.

129
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A deQ Fi rearm s Com pany . . . . . . . . 129
B ladeGallery. com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87
Di llon P reci si on. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75
Di rect M easures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59
K ayne & Son . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 129
kel-tec cnc i ndustri es i nc . . . . . . . . . . 7
K ershaw K ni ves. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
M R E Star . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 117
paladi n press. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Pat Crawford K ni ves . . . . . . . . . . . 117
ready reserve foods. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Survi valBags I nc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
TOP S K ni ves. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 132
Torm ach LLC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
AD I NDEX

CLOSING WORDS
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Symbolism
THE SNOWPACKSOME 15-FEET HIGHREPRESENTS
THE HARDSHIPS, BRUTALITY AND RUTHLESSNESS
THAT IS WINTER.
The road seemingly inter-
minable and the sunshine
reaching across the land repre-
sent hope, life and survival.
There are two ways to look
at every situation. So, should you
ever come face-to-face with
Mother Natures fury, such as
the cold, cruel hand of Old Man
Winter, be sure to look at both
sides of the picture and make
sure you see the glass half-full.
For that is the foundation
for survival.

Three handguns: Glock 17, HK, and Sig P226
Four Semi Autos: FN Scar, Mossberg, PS 90, Savage
Four Full Autos: MP5, Uzi, M4, AK47
SAW

Call 702-476-9228
and mention Gun World Magazine to book today!
MGV EXPEREINCE
Guests will shoot on MGVs VIP lane and have
exclusive access to the VIP lounge in this
newly built facility. Transportation between
MGV and Treasure Island will be Provided.
Package also includes use of:
Gun World Magazine
invites you to join us in this
Unique Firearms Experience!
Packages can be redeemed March 1, 2013 to September 1, 2013 * Packages are Subject to availability. Additional fees may apply to packages
redeemed during holidays and/or weekends. Packages are non-refundable but transferable * Must be 18 years or older
NOTE: Guns are subject to availability
Complimentary Internet
VIP check-in
No resort fees
Strip Views
TREASURE ISLAND
Guests will receive a 2-nightstay at Treasure
Island Hotel in Las Vegas. Package also includes:
$1,000
FOR TOTAL PACKAGE
Machine Guns Vegas (MGV) is open and rocking Las Vegas!
See below for important package details
Brought to you by: Gun World Magazine, MVG and Treasure Island Las Vegas

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