You’ve just been briefed on the mission. Time is short, so hit your cage or wall locker and get geared up. Success begins with preparation, and preparation means making smart choices about the kit you’ll trust your life with. Plan for how long you expect to be out, then add half again to that time. Check the weather and layer up accordingly. Load mags, top off canteens, swap batteries, and inspect snaps, zippers, buckles, and swivels. If it shakes, rattles, or rolls, tape it down. Bring what you need, leave what you don’t. Link up with your battle buddy for gear checks. We step off on in 30. 1 MAKE & MODEL 5.11 Tactical TacTec On Duty Bundle MSRP $390 URL 511tactical.com NOTES This is a great quick mission setup. The TacTec…
I did not expect to start a training course taped to a chair. Wrists bound to the armrests. Forearms pinned. Ankles secured to the legs of a battered office seat. There is a saying that echoes through survival circles, “You do not rise to the occasion. You sink to your lowest level of training.” It sounded dramatic when I first heard it. It felt different with adhesive biting into skin. The room smelled like dust and coffee. The instructor’s footsteps moved behind me. A timer started. I took a breath and tried to think like someone who had done this a hundred times. That scene was no movie set. It was a drill at Grey Man Academy. The program promises a quiet path to an uncommon skill set. Think less…
Being able to rappel is an often overlooked and underappreciated skill. In a lot of scenarios, like in the mountains, burning buildings, clandestine operations or anywhere high up where things could go wrong fast, sometimes the best direction to go is down. However, falling is not an option. The problem with rappelling kits — or abseiling as they call it across the pond — is that they are often large, expensive, and heavy. But what if a person had something that is the opposite of all these things? A rappelling kit that is practical in size, reasonable in cost and lighter than most other backcountry gear? Well, I’ve been on a mission to accomplish just that. This DIY kit I created weighs less than 3 pounds, contains enough rope for…
Grinding through a full week at the office or jobsite can wear anyone down, especially when you’re trying to stay motivated for long weekends in the wild. There’s nothing wrong with enjoying the A/C, kicking back by the pool, or cracking open a cold one when the workweek ends — you’ve earned it. But don’t lose sight of the bigger picture. Those 40-plus hours pay for something more: the freedom to pack up and get out there. We’ve put together a collection of gear to make the daily grind a little easier and help stoke your excitement for that next escape the moment you break away from the blacktop and return to real ground. 1 MAKE & MODEL Ramsingh Watch Company Jakkal MOVEMENT Quartz MSRP $395 URL rwatchco.com NOTES When…
Knives are among humanity’s oldest tools, serving as companions for cooking, hunting, utility, and combat. While the first knives made by humans were likely all-purpose tools — modern design and production techniques have allowed knifemakers to develop tools for very specific purposes. The VIPs at Undisclosed got their hands on several exceptional knives. Each of these knives vary in size, blade shape, materials, and more, giving each a distinct specialization in survival and tactical scenarios. Let’s dive into the details of each of the knives from Undisclosed and discuss the best roles for each knife. OUTDOOR ELEMENT: OFFGRID SCOUT FEATHER Outdoor Element is known for producing a wide array of outdoor survival gear, with a focus on multifunctional design features that allow each item to serve multiple functions — the…
Communicating during a disaster is incredibly challenging. Even in everyday situations, communication is a complex process for anyone involved in an exchange. Add the stress and urgency of a crisis, and things can go wrong quickly. In times of disaster, human beings often struggle to absorb life-saving information effectively. We process messages differently under pressure, retain little of it, and respond unpredictably. In fact, during such high-stress moments, people often revert to simpler levels of understanding, meaning the information shared must be clear and simple enough for a sixth-grader to grasp. Crisis communication should be approached from both the perspective of the listener and the spokesperson. According to the latest Gallup Poll, only 20 percent of U.S. citizens expressed a fair amount of trust in the federal government, while others…
In the year of our lord 2025, to see another backpack review is somewhat unexciting. More pockets, less pockets, marginal material improvements, fancy colors, minor frame style tweaks, it’s an endless series of copy/paste from years prior, or fads that never really catch on. One would think that something as figured out as the humble backpack had reached its peak. Even more so when they’re designed to carry a rifle due to the inherent form factor of incorporating a scabbard. However, one company found a way to buck the trends and produce something that I had initially written off until I strapped my rifle in, threw it on my back, and started putting in the miles. About Skili Gear Skili Gear was founded by Ernie Robinson, an automotive industry professional…
Modern technology has created numerous ways to keep lines of communication open. Cell phones and tablets keep us connected while on the go, and computers and smart devices make communicating with anyone in the world fast and efficient. All this can happen because of a complex infrastructure of cell phone towers, miles of cables, and submarine fiber connecting the continents. Even with a vast infrastructure in place, those of us who spend time in the wilderness often encounter places where our mobile devices have no signal. Even many rural areas have spotty and limited coverage despite having an established population. The complex network that keeps our communications lines open is incredibly fragile. Natural disasters, human conflict, and sometimes the simple deterioration of equipment over time can all lead to mass…
Embers from the fire glowed like the eyes of some ancient animal, watching from the shadows. A few candles guttered in the damp air, their halos of light swaying whenever a breath of wind slipped through the gaps in the canopy. Beyond the circle of light, the jungle was a black wall, the hum of insects and frogs muffled by the stillness of the hour. Beside me sat Quini, a Matis elder whose numerous piercings gave his face the fierce visage of a jaguar. He leaned forward, elbows on his knees, and spoke in a voice so soft I had to tilt my head toward him. His words moved in a rolling current of vowels and consonants that I didn’t understand, yet the rhythm alone carried a weight that pressed…
Electronics of all sorts are a fixture on the modern battlefield, just as they are in everyday life. While they can provide critical capabilities, such as communications and information gathering to combatants and civilians alike, abuse or misuse of your systems can also give away your position to those you may or may not want to have it. Conversely, should you find yourself in the position of a pursing force, whether to find and fix a hostile group, or locate someone’s emergency beacon in the wilderness, knowing how to home in on radio signals could prove crucial to the success of your mission and even save lives. The technique of tracking down radio signals, generally known as radio direction finding (RDF) or simply direction finding (DF), can be done with…
Over the years, the term prepping has earned a somewhat controversial reputation, not just among the general public but even within the preparedness community. This is largely due to how news and popular media often depict preppers — as paranoid hoarders gearing up for a fictional, postapocalyptic world straight out of dystopian cinema and literature. Regardless of how you feel about the word prepping, let’s set that aside and focus on the true value of preparedness — and the diverse individuals who embrace it. What is Preparedness? Preparedness is a broad concept that applies to many aspects of life, all rooted in the idea of being ready for emergencies. In its simplest form, it encompasses everyday actions: a motorist carrying jumper cables for a breakdown or a parent keeping a…
Bodies moved through the Undisclosed schedule with that blend of curiosity and pressure that always settles over a good field course. ATAC rifles came out of cases in a neat line, and eyes did a quick scan of controls and optics. No one realized a personal surprise sat held in their hands. That realization landed only after the final scenario wrapped and the dust of sim rounds settled. Each rifle belonged to the person who had just spent more than a day living with it. That reveal hit hearts and sparked grins. Before that moment, those carbines simply had a job to do. Mission Ready ADER 5.56 stands for ATAC Defense Enhanced Rifle. ADER 5.56 arrives as a complete answer for long, busy evolutions. Weight stays friendly at 5.95 pounds,…
For all of life’s biggest and heaviest decisions — changing careers, moving out of state, choosing a college to attend, proposing to a spouse, and so on — it’s wise to take a moment to consider your options. Some of us make lists of pros and cons, ask friends or mentors for insight, or “sleep on it” before committing to a choice. But no matter what, we avoid making split-second decisions about any situation that’s likely to change our lives for years or decades. There is, however, one instance where this level of deliberation will not be possible: deciding to pull the trigger in a self-defense situation. When you’re thrust into one of these life-threatening situations, there’s usually no time to pause and ponder what to do. You’ll need to…
GRAYL 24OZ GEOPRESS TI PURIFIER Weight: 20.1 ounces Cartridge Lifespan: 350 cycles (65 gallons / 250 liters) MSRP: $220 URL:grayl.com Dehydration kills. In 2004, a study of the National Hospital Discharge Survey discovered that, in the U.S. over 500,000 hospitalizations were a direct result of dehydration. Sadly, about 10,000 of those resulted in death. In third world countries, this statistic is far greater, with millions of people dying each year. Dig into these numbers a little bit, and you’ll find that often times, these injuries and deaths are not due to water being completely inaccessible. They’re correlated with waterborne diseases and other contaminants from lack of access to clean water. Even if you don’t live in sub-Saharan Africa, clean drinking water may not always be readily available, especially if you…
When you hear the term “long-range shooting,” a few things might come to mind. Big rifles, bigger scopes, and probably a competition shooter buried behind a steel barricade somewhere in the American Southwest. What probably doesn’t come to mind is a vineyard in Southern California, a hunting rifle, and a group of down-to-earth people stretching their shots from 250 out to 1,250 yards. But that’s exactly what Practical Precision 101 turned out to be. Hosted at a private ranch somewhere in Southern California (for the privacy of the rancher and guests, we’ll keep the vineyard’s name off the record), this two-day course was run by South Coast Long Gunner, with Ryan Burns as the primary instructor. Burns — backed by the ranch owner and his range safety officers — put…
Every year, spring brings with it a picturesque landscape. Just as snow melts from the hills and trees, it also generates dangerous road conditions. Depending on where you live, lagging winter remnants can be met with spring storms, sometimes with little warning, creating hazards that can leave you precariously alone. The circumstances that lead to cars being stuck, damaged, or altogether disabled are also the circumstances that hamper first responders, delay roadside assistance, or make immediate aid an impossibility. It’s in those situations, where a little preparation could go a long way. It could even save your life. For those who live in areas prone to harsh winters, nasty storms, or evacuation gridlock, stocking and storing an emergency vehicle kit isn’t a novel idea — it’s simply part of the…
What do you do when you come across a medical emergency? If you’re like most bystanders, you watch and wait until someone else takes action. But for the few who step in, their response can mean the difference between life and death. On average, it takes first responders about seven minutes to arrive and begin care. In a high-traffic area, that wait could stretch longer. In remote areas with limited EMS coverage, you could be looking at 30 minutes or more before help arrives. That means you may be the only line of support during that critical window. According to the American Heart Association, for every minute CPR is delayed, the chances of surviving a cardiac arrest drop by 10 percent. In this article, we’ll cover when to call 911,…
Every year, we hear stories of stranded motorists who, for one reason or another, end up in a situation that culminates in a fatality. Although we’d like to think we’d never end up in a similarly grim position, the people who actually found themselves in those circumstances probably assumed the same thing. Our overreliance on the GPS systems found on our phones or in our vehicles, as well as the belief that we can “just call someone” whenever we need to, has made us a little too complacent in our preparatory measures. If those luxuries proved to be out of service or just plain useless and your vehicle broke down in a remote location, what — besides luck, hope, and instinct — do you have to rely on to help…
If there’s one thing many Americans can agree on, it’s that our world has changed dramatically since the pandemic of 2020 took the world by storm. I’d been preparing for exactly this kind of scenario for a long time. When it finally happened, I was grateful I had the skills and resources to make it through. When Hurricane Katrina made landfall, I remember watching the devastation on the news. Unfortunately, a lot of people didn’t take the hurricane warning seriously, and sadly, some people had nowhere to go. I couldn’t imagine the fear people experienced living through that storm. That’s when the thought of preparedness was planted in my brain. But unbeknownst to me at the time, my journey to preparedness actually began in the early 1970s when my family…
1 MAKE & MODEL CRKT Bugsy STEEL 1095 High Carbon MSRP $170 URL crkt.com NOTES Designed by survivalist Kaila Cumings, the CRKT Bugsy Fixed Blade Knife is a versatile tool for outdoor adventures. Available in two versions: one with a stonewash plain-edge blade and Micarta handle, and another with a black Cerakoted blade featuring Veff serrations, matched with a black G10 handle. Its overall length is 7.44 inches, with a 3.78-inch blade that is 0.15-inch thick. The knife is constructed using 1095 carbon steel, known for its durability and edge retention. Weighing 4.3 ounces, it’s designed for both right- and left-handed users and comes with a sheath — leather for the stonewash version and Kydex for the black version. Its blade shape and size make it a reliable companion for…
Knives by Nuge hit the scene a few years back with a variety of fixed blades designed for hard outdoor use, including hunting, fishing, bushcraft, and general wilderness survival tasks. Knives by Nuge owner and bladesmith Tom Nugent incorporates his personal passions for the great outdoors and former profession as a police officer into each design to create highly functional purpose-driven knives. Combining his thoughtful design process with a meticulous eye for detail and dedication to constantly improving his products led to early success with his well-known Wicket model. While the Wicket remains a popular and versatile knife for outdoor, hunting, and EDC use, Nugent’s own experiences using his Wicket XL when hunting led to the creation of the latest Knives by Nuge models, the Bruin and the Cub. Origins…
The secret of war lies in the communications. — Napoleon Humans are social creatures. From the moment we’re born, we begin working to communicate with those around us — it starts with parents, siblings, and extended family, then friends and classmates, and eventually coworkers, spouses, and children of our own. In the best of times, our ability to communicate is fundamental to our happiness, but it’s when things go wrong that we feel its true importance. Whether it’s lost hikers in the backcountry, a town devastated by a natural disaster, or a country ravaged by war, our instinct is to call for help from neighbors, authorities, and allies. However, there’s another truth that must be acknowledged: Humans are predators. Even before organized societies formed, we hunted to stay alive —…
Using the right tool for the right job makes all the diference. Sure, you can get away with using a flathead screwdriver on a Phillips screw, but every time you do so, you run the risk of stripping the screw. It’s much better to use the correct driver for the proper fit to avoid damage to the screw and the driver. Similarly, using the right knot can be a huge factor in the success of accomplishing a job, easily and safely. Unless knots factor into your daily grind like bungee jump operator or first mate of the S.S. Minnow, the majority of people may only use one or two knots on a daily basis — or if you have Velcro on your shoes, maybe even none at all. Whether or…
Without water, there is no life. Since the dawn of mankind, people have congregated around sources of water which provide the ability to stay hydrated, bathe, attract the prey we hunt, create fertile soil to grow crops, and travel by boat. From the Nile Delta to the Mighty Mississippi, water isn’t just the primary component of our bodies, it’s also the glue that holds together our communities. We often consider the collapse of our government or financial institutions as the most severe blow that could be dealt to our society, and eras such as the Civil War and Great Depression attest to this severity. But the failure of our water supply has the potential to be far worse. Take a look at the most impoverished nations, or areas decimated by…
Disclaimer: This 72-hour survival challenge was performed by a professional survival instructor under close supervision by rescue personnel. Do not attempt any potentially dangerous survival challenge without prior training, and always establish contingency plans in case something goes wrong. Working for Fieldcraft Survival, I’ve learned to expect each day to be filled with the unexpected. We have a highly dynamic work environment with new projects and tasks on a regular basis. One day, we’re scouting land for upcoming courses, the next we’re flying to another state to teach a defensive handgun class, the next we’re filming online content in the mountains — you get the idea. In June 2021, my boss Mike Glover challenged me to survive for 72 hours in the desert with nothing more than the contents of…
Imagine walking into an unfamiliar environment and being able to immediately assess its safety, potential threats, and opportunities for escape or advantage. This skill is not just reserved for trained professionals like military personnel or law enforcement. Civilians can develop the same ability to read places and situations by understanding how our sensory systems, cognitive processes, and situational awareness work. Armed with these understandings, we can make better decisions and stay one step ahead of potential dangers. You could be navigating a crowded city street, exploring a remote hiking trail, or simply assessing the atmosphere at a social gathering. Having the ability to "read the room" can provide a significant advantage. Developing this skill enhances personal safety and builds confidence in handling unpredictable situations. By becoming more attuned to environmental…
In a true case of “what’s old is new again” the last several years have seen not only a resurgence of the lever action rifle, but an evolution of it. Although this platform was once reserved for ranchers and cowboy action shooters, well-known companies like Midwest Industries have committed significant resources to developing accessories that modernize this oft-over-shadowed platform. Smaller custom houses like Mad Pig Customs go even further, offering complete boutique builds with selectable furniture, accessories, and colorways. With all this effort expended to teach an old gun new tricks, some of you are certainly wondering: why? We’re not sure there’s a definitive answer. If all you care about is practicality and cost-effectiveness, it’s impossible to deny the advantages of a modern semi-auto rifle with a detachable 30-round magazine.…
1 MAKE & MODEL CRKT Provoke BLADE LENGTH 2.41 inches MSRP $200 URL crkt.com NOTES Creator Joe Caswell and Columbia River Knife and Tool (CRKT), a company renowned for high quality blades, has released a futuristic spin on a centuries-old tool. Like many blades whose origins derive from Asian culture, the karambit was used to harvest grains, such as rice. Should the need arise, it could be conscripted into martial service. Flash-forward to modern times, and we have the Provoke, engineered to take up the least amount of space, and then quickly deploy into its functional position. The ability to transform makes this knife a great option for EDC applications, since it can be attached to places that cause conventional knife profiles to become unwieldy. Made from D2, a high…
“The final weapon is the brain, all else is supplemental.”– John Steinbeck President Biden famously said, “You don’t need an AR-15. It’s harder to aim. It’s harder to use. And, in fact, you don’t need 30 rounds to protect yourself. Buy a shotgun.” He continued, “If there’s ever a problem, just walk out on the balcony here … put that double-barreled shotgun, just walk out on the balcony and fire two blasts outside the house.” Politics aside, we shouldn’t need to tell you this is bad advice — in any defensive shooting situation, you’ll need to account for every round you fire, so blindly slinging buckshot off the porch is a terrible idea. Furthermore, I’d argue that a 30-round capacity, semi-automatic, low-recoil carbine is in fact an excellent choice for…
1 MAKE & MODEL 5.11 Chukka Boot COLORS Classic Brown MSRP $120 URL 511tactical.com NOTES The 5.11 Chukka boot is designed to provide a balance of comfort, style, and durability, making it suitable for various situations. Whether you're on your feet for extended periods, navigating through crowds, or in a professional setting, the Chukka offers reliable support. Its full rubber outsole, developed in collaboration with Vibram, ensures excellent traction across multiple surfaces, enhancing your mobility in different environments. The drop-in Ortholite foam insole contributes to all-day comfort, cushioning your foot and promoting a comfortable experience no matter how long you're on the move. Constructed from full-grain leather, the boot combines style with a rugged build, making it versatile enough to wear in both formal and casual scenarios. The Achilles relief…
1 MAKE & MODEL Backpackers Pantry New Meal Bundle MENU Beef Bolognese, Drunken Noodles with Chicken, Fiesta Beef & Vegetable, Pesto Pasta with Chicken, White Bean Chicken & Green Chile MSRP $60 URL backpackerspantry.com NOTES Step up your outdoor culinary game with the Backpacker’s Pantry New Meal Bundle. This bundle includes five distinct meals: Beef Bolognese, Drunken Noodles with Chicken, Fiesta Beef and Vegetable Bowl, Pesto Pasta with Chicken, and White Bean with Chicken and Green Chile Stew. Each meal provides a unique taste experience, from spicy Thai noodles to hearty Italian Bolognese, ensuring gourmet dining no matter where you are. These meals are not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making them ideal for campers, hikers, and outdoor enthusiasts. Just add boiling water, and your meal is ready…
While the term has a very different connotation to recreational drug users, in the Special Forces world, a speed ball refers to a small stash of essential fighting gear that can be quickly accessed during a protracted fight. Depending on scale, they can take the form of a bag, box, or cargo pallet, but the goal is to keep the load down to the bare necessities to get through the mission. In military context, the normal ingredients include food, water, ammunition, extra grenades, or other combat sundries. This gave us the idea to explore what the speed ball concept might look like for a prepared citizen. Assuming a baseline EDC of flashlight, knife, pistol, and an on-body IFAK or med kit, what would you need in a hurry if the…
Accomplishing tasks onehanded is often challenging — hence the phrase “with one hand tied behind my back.” Whether you’re cleaning a gun, changing your truck’s oil, or preparing dinner, simple undertakings can become frustrating ordeals if you can’t use both hands. This reinforces the importance of hands-free lighting. Without it, you may find yourself clenching the light in your teeth, balancing the light in a precarious position, or wishing you could grow a third hand that can hold the flashlight as you work. In previous issues, we addressed three common forms of hands-free lights: headlamps (Issue 2), lanterns (Issue 6), and angle-head flashlights (Issue 15). In this issue, we focus on an often-overlooked fourth variety: magnetic lights. These magnetized flashlights can be indispensable in urban areas where metal surfaces abound.…
MAKE & MODEL Gerber Center-Drive Multi-tool TOOLS Pliers, Bit Driver, Plain Blade, Serrated Blade, Pry Bar, Awl, Wire Cutters, Wire Strippers, File, Ruler, Bottle Opener MSRP $89 URL www.center-drive.com NOTES Like you, we’re impatiently waiting for the release of the ME3 handheld cutting torch as used by the brave Colonial Marines on their failed mission to rescue the doomed terafarming colony on Archeron. In the meantime, Gerber released it’s latest multitool aimed at taking the place of a real set of tools. The Center-Drive features a long, offset bit driver that’s angled to spin on-axis, as a proper bit driver does. It uses standard 1⁄4-inch hex drive bits for universal compatibility. It sports another 10 (by our count) tools making it almost, but not quite as useful as a pocket…
1 MAKE & MODEL Zippo OUL LENGTH 7.75 in. MSRP $20 URL www.zippo.com NOTES If fre-building isn’t in your skill set, consider the OUL, or Outdoor Utility Lighter. It has a dual fame technology that makes it wind-resistant, while its metal construction and rubber handle let it shrug off harsh conditions. There’s also an adjustable fame dial, a patented childresistant safety button, and a ring to attach the OUL to a backpack. Once depleted, it’s refllable using Zippo Premium Butane Fuel. 2 PUBLISHER & TITLE Ulysses Press Countdown to Preparedness: The Prepper’s 52-Week Course to Total Disaster Readiness FORMAT Trade Paperback MSRP $16 URL www.ulyssespress.com NOTES If you’re a city slicker who’s completely new to prepping, fguring out where to start can be daunting. Fortunately, there’s Jim Cobb’s Countdown to Preparedness.…
Christmas is a time for warmth, wonder, and — if you’re like us — a dash of wilderness grit. Once the lights are strung and the hearth glows, step outside into the relentless cold beneath a sky glittering brighter than your holiday tree. The wind cuts and whispers, telling stories older than carols and time. Out among the snow-laden pines, frozen trails call to those willing to listen. Survival has never been solely about gear or skill. It’s a celebration of self-reliance, an act of reverence for wild places untouched by complacency. This year, I’ve taken much of the guesswork out of shopping for your favorite adventurer or preparedness-minded loved one. From thoughtful stocking stuffers to main-event gifts, each item here has been used, tested, and proven worthy of your…
Imagine you wake at two in the morning to the sound of breaking glass. Your heart races. In a split second your brain goes into overdrive: you worry about your family, defending your home, and the safety of the people you love. You jump out of bed, grab your weapon, and move through a house you know like the back of your hand. In the living room you see the silhouette of a figure who is too large to be one of your loved ones. You turn on your weapon light. A pistol is raised toward you and a shot rings out — it misses to the left. You raise your weapon, present, engage, fire three shots, and the intruder drops to the ground. You move forward cautiously, weapon trained…
The participants who signed up for RECOIL OFFGRID Undisclosed knew very little about what they were getting into. They knew that they were signing up to be part of an immersive tactical training event that would last approximately 36 hours somewhere in the vicinity of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania — and they knew that we had selected some of the best instructors in their respective fields to train them. On arrival, Undisclosed VIPs hit the Lodge, got the mission brief, split into teams, geared up, and prepped for what was coming next. The night set off with a trauma care overview, a primer for the training to follow. The evening was spent getting to know one another, the instructors, and the support crew over good food and easy conversation. Still, unease lingered.…
Ah, the holidays. They have a funny way of amplifying whatever we’re feeling. For some, they bring the scent of pine and cinnamon, the glow of string lights reflected in eager eyes, and that undeniable buzz of excitement that only this time of year can conjure. For others, the same season stirs up something heavier — a nostalgia that stings more than it soothes, or a stress that feels like it’s closing in from all sides. Love it or hate it, none of us come through December untouched. This time of year magnifies our experiences, our memories, and our needs, both practical and emotional. If you’re traveling, whether it’s a cross-country road trip or a cramped flight to see family, the season demands a heightened awareness. There’s the need to…
Imagine walking into a coffee shop, scanning the room, and instantly understanding who is engaged, who is uncomfortable, and who might be paying a little too much attention to you. This isn’t about mind-reading or gathering some sort of “energy.” It’s about recognizing the signals people give off and using that information to navigate the world more effectively. Many people think of reading others as something reserved for law enforcement, security professionals, or criminal profilers. The reality is that anyone can develop this skill, and it has practical applications in everything from personal safety, business negotiations, and on to the simpler things in life like family relationships. The key is learning to observe and interpret behavioral cues in a way that helps you anticipate what’s coming next. This ability doesn’t…
As winter’s grip loosens, we welcome apricity filtering through thawing branches. Though frigid days linger, we turn our eyes to trusted gear, knowing spring’s arrival brings unpredictable weather and mud-laden trails. With snow still blanketing parts of the nation, we prepare by sharpening blades, inspecting packs, and awaiting the first signs of green returning to the landscape. As migratory birds reappear, so does our longing for campfires, fresh air, and open trails. It’s time to lace up our boots and step into the wild places once again. 1 MAKE & MODEL Nemo Riff Endless Promise WEIGHT 2 pounds, 7 ounces MSRP $400 URL nemoequipment.com NOTES The three-season Nemo Riff sleeping bag offers a customizable sleep experience with its Spoon silhouette, providing extra room at the elbows and knees while trimming bulk…
For this edition of Offgrid Adventures, we’re setting our sights on two landscapes that tell very different stories of wild America. First is Jack Creek Preserve, an expansive stretch of Montana wilderness tucked between Ennis and Big Sky, where mountain trails lead deep into country still shaped by the hands of its original stewards. Then, we’ll move west to California’s Pinnacles National Park, a place born of fire and fracture, where ancient volcanic rock towers above caves and canyons. Together, these two destinations offer a study in contrast, one rooted in alpine forests and conservation, the other in shifting geology and survival of the land itself. Adventure Appeal Jack Creek Preserve offers a rare wilderness experience in Montana’s Madison Mountains, where 4,500 acres of protected land serve as both a…
Surviving the wilderness requires skill and reliable gear. The same can be said when facing emergency situations in an urban environment, but there’s one variable that we won't often find in the wilderness — people, and a lot of them. Emergencies in the urban jungle can be caused by weather events, infrastructure failure, and civil unrest. In all these situations, having skills and survival gear can help keep us safe, but carrying a larger wilderness survival kit in an urban environment would draw some unwanted attention that could lead to trouble. That’s why adopting the gray man aesthetic and applying that to our everyday carry (EDC) is the key to success. What is a Gray Man? “Gray man” is a term that means blending in with your environment, not standing…
At first glance, the training near Vero Beach, Florida, looked like a straightforward tactical course. It was hosted by Gorilla Ammunition, a company better known for precision cartridges than emotional insight. Yet beneath the surface of its trauma drills and field exercises, something deeper took shape. The lessons were not only about how to save a life, but also how to regulate one’s own nervous system under threat. What unfolded resembled a form of therapy in motion, a physical and cognitive practice that echoed the principles of eye movement desensitization and reprocessing, or EMDR. EMDR is a therapy developed in the late 1980s by psychologist Francine Shapiro. It helps people process disturbing experiences by combining focused attention with bilateral movement, such as eye motions, taps, or alternating tones. The technique…
Tony Peel doesn’t look like your typical radio operator. No uniform, no government badge, just a guy who knows his stuff. He’s the founder of Wyoming Survival, a former survival instructor, a blacksmith, and a licensed General HAM operator. That last bit matters because, in the world of radio communications, a General HAM license is your gateway to operating on high-frequency (HF) bands — a skillset that stretches far beyond the limits of the popular Baofeng handheld radios many preppers stash in their bug-out bags. On day one of the HF Operations class, Peel wasted no time breaking down the fundamentals, starting with a question: What is HF? Short for “high frequency,” it refers to the spectrum of radio frequencies between 3 and 30 MHz. Unlike UHF and VHF radios,…
After I turned 50, I got it into my head that I wanted a brand-new vehicle, not used, just once in my life. Our minivan was about 22 years old and Midwestern winters had taken their toll on the body, so it was time for an upgrade. We ended up buying a dealer’s demo model that had fewer than 2,000 miles on it. It has so many gadgets and gizmos, I feel like I’m piloting a spacecraft. While we’re still learning how everything works, I wanted to get the van outfitted properly for the numerous road trips we have planned. I think one of the best parts about getting a new-to-you vehicle is customizing it for your needs. Enter the AP Premium Bag from KY Handcrafted. AP stands for All-Purpose,…
This is the first of a three-part series on Spyware. Not the kind that infects your computer, but the type of hardware a spy might have a need for. Even if you’re not James Bond, these tools can serve as discreet and potent force-multipliers in non-permissive areas where you may not be allowed to carry traditional defensive weapons. You may never need to use one, but if you do, you’ll be glad to have it. Nonmetallic knives are not a new thing. Mankind’s earliest knives were made of stone such as flint, chert, obsidian, or even heat-treated wood. Many of those materials were still in use by the time man was making tools of copper and bronze because they were so effective. In today’s era of super steels, they’re less…
Editor’s Note: The following is a true story. For security reasons, names and exact locations will be withheld and a few minor details changed. “Now we have an understanding.” The airport official tapped the envelope stuffed with American currency and let the group pass through the checkpoint. The clock was ticking, and my friend’s group was trying to get back to the United States from a country in Africa that had imminent flight restrictions pending due to a disease outbreak. My friend and his associates had traveled to Africa for an expedition, but when they attempted to return home, they were stopped at security and told they could not proceed. This was more than an inconvenience — it was a potential disaster. The country was preparing to shut down all…
When it comes to operating in highstress environments, navigating the wilderness, or moving quickly during an emergency, next to our minds, our feet are our most important tool. The ability to move quickly and efficiently can be seriously hampered when foot injuries or discomfort are present. Having proper footwear is essential, and with the footwear market being as large as it is, it is difficult to know exactly what the best show for the job is. While your average sneaker, work boot, or sandal may be a comfortable choice for daily use — these types of shoes are not built to hold up to miles of on foot travel, adverse weather conditions, and rough terrain. They also aren’t designed to keep our feet happy and healthy in these activities. In…
Tracking is one of humanity’s oldest survival skills, honed by necessity and refined by generations. Yet, in our modern age of convenience, the primal art of tracking often feels like a relic of the past. That was the premise of “Grayside Hunter,” a two-day urban tracking course taught by Freddy Osuna, founder of Greenside Training. As the only Native American-owned and operated tracking school, Greenside Training offers a perspective deeply rooted in tradition while addressing contemporary challenges. Here are some of the key lessons I took away from this transformative experience. A Modern Skill with Ancient Roots Day one began in a classroom setting, where Osuna laid the groundwork for understanding tracking. He reminded us that the ability to track is hardwired into human nature — our brains evolved to…
Lock picking is a skill that elicits a lot of different feelings in people when it’s brought up. Some think of crafty criminals breaking into homes, while others think of spies employing discreet tools to ply their trade. While both these situations can be true, the reality of lock picking is that it’s a skill that prepared-minded people value for both emergency and everyday situations. It’s a common misconception that lock-pick sets are illegal. However, most states and municipalities have no restrictions on carrying lock picks beyond the intent to use them in a crime. In fact, most basic lock-picking sets are inexpensive and accessible to everyone. Before we get into how to pick a lock, let’s look at some of the practical reasons why we would need to pick…
Who doesn’t want to upgrade their camping game? Maybe you can relate — how many tools do you toss into your backpack before heading into the woods? And out of those, how many do you actually rely on? Spoiler alert: Some of the best gear is the stuff you whip up yourself. For many campers and bushcraft enthusiasts, the joy of crafting things in the wild is part of the adventure. There are plenty of clever ways to enhance your campsite, and they mostly hinge on mastering a few straightforward skills with simple tools at hand. The Camp Anvil A wooden stump proves to be an unsung hero in any backyard or campsite. You just can’t underestimate the comfort of having a flat surface to lean on after a long…
The concept of a “bug-out bag” is one that can be interpreted a variety of different ways. Some take it as a complete survival kit for living in the woods indefinitely, in which case it’s usually a huge pack crammed with a wide range of sustainment gear and heavy tools. Personally, I like a more limited approach — I don’t see a lot of scenarios where I’d need to live off the land for months without resupply, but I can think of many where I’d want to be out for two or three days with the essentials for safety and comfort. So, that’s the role this pack fulfills. It covers water, food, shelter, fire, and defense — each with redundancies — as well as some lower priorities like entertainment. Backpack…
It’s time to unleash your inner cave dweller with the thrilling experience of Stone Age cooking, perfect for both backcountry adventures and backyard bonfires. In this guide, we’ll cover the art of creating mouthwatering wilderness dishes using flat rocks, roasting sticks, a stone oven, and hot coals. Get ready to heighten your outdoor cooking game. Cooking Outdoors Survival depends on the ability to make use of everything the environment offers, both natural materials and discarded items we might otherwise overlook. These resources can be repurposed to build shelters, carry supplies, secure water, and maintain fire for warmth and cooking. Just like machines need fuel to run, our bodies require energy to function efficiently. Knowing how to stretch and apply these resources effectively can make all the difference in tough conditions.…
Every kingdom divided against itself is brought to desolation, and every city or house divided against itself shall not stand.” This quote from the book of Matthew in the Bible served as inspiration to Abraham Lincoln, who famously paraphrased it in a speech on June 16, 1858. Three years later, the start of the American Civil War reinforced the truth of these words, but it’s far from an isolated example. From the fall of Rome to the breakup of the Soviet Union, history has proved time and again that deep-seated division is a cancer that — if left unchecked — can topple empires. That’s not to say that differences of opinion are a death knell for any society. In many cases, they’re the exact opposite, serving as a sign of…
MAKE & MODEL 1 SITKA Equinox Guard Pants COLORS Coyote, Lead, Optifade Elevated II, Optifade Subalpine, Optifade Waterfowl Timber MSRP $100 URL sitkagear.com NOTES These pants are designed to provide comprehensive protection against insects while ensuring comfort and breathability in hot, humid conditions. Engineered with SITKA-developed fabric, the Equinox Guard Pants offer a lightweight, moisture-wicking solution that promotes maximum airflow. The raised internal grid pattern enhances breathability, while zippered leg vents with mesh gussets allow for heat to be expelled during high-intensity activities, providing the flexibility to zip up for added protection when needed. SITKA’s Scent-free Insect Shield material repels mosquitoes, ticks, ants, flies, chiggers, and midges (nosee-ums), reducing the risk of insect bites. Internal leg gaiters provide an additional layer of defense, preventing ticks and chiggers from crawling up…
When you think about lung damage, you might think about pneumonia, but not all damage to the lungs and chest is related to inflammation due to infections. Trauma is also a possibility, especially for those of us who venture off the grid for activities such as hunting, hiking, or mountain biking. In austere settings, a family medic may have to deal with injuries that can sometimes be lethal without immediate intervention. Penetrating chest wounds often fall into this category. First, some anatomy: The lungs are protected by the rib cage. Humans have 12 pairs of ribs, numbered from top to bottom. These are sometimes called “true ribs,” “false ribs,” and “floating ribs.” The true ribs (ribs 1 to 7) connect to the sternum (breastbone) via flexible connective tissue called cartilage.…
Time for a reality check, America; disasters happen and not just at the local mobile trailer park. Disasters happen in large cities, too. In 2003, a power outage in the Northeast left more than 7 million New York City residents without any type of power for two days. In 2005, Hurricane Katrina devastated and flooded the city of New Orleans for weeks. In 2007, wildfires whipped up by the Santa Ana winds destroyed thousands of homes in the northern suburbs of San Diego; and in 2012, Hurricane Sandy erased some towns in New Jersey of the map and flooded New York City to levels not seen in 100 years. Most times, we have some indication that trouble is headed our way and we can make some preparations for weathering the…
According to the Small Arms Survey, American civilians owned an estimated 393 million firearms in 2018 — that number has undoubtedly grown considerably in post-COVID years. The vast majority of those firearms will never be used maliciously against another human being, but as with any tool, some will inevitably be misused to harm the innocent. If you consider yourself a prepared individual, are concerned with protecting your family from violence, have an active shooter plan, or are just a firearms enthusiast — and I imagine you’re one or all these things if you’re reading this magazine — you should seriously consider owning a set of body armor, or “plates” as they’re often referred to. With advances in ballistic technology, rumblings about legislation banning civilian body armor ownership, and recent violent…
DISCLAIMER This is a general overview and not a detailed list on medications to be stockpiled for an emergency. Consult your physician about personal recommendations that may vary due to age, preexisting conditions, potential conflicts with other medications you may be using, allergies, and other considerations. For years, preparedness strategies have emphasized the importance of having natural remedies in your medical storage, simply because disaster events may leave you without the medicines so widely available today. Antibiotics and other prescription medications should also be accumulated but are harder to obtain in quantity. That leaves the drugs that will be the cornerstone of your survival medicine cabinet: over-the-counter (OTC) medications. OTC medications are drugs that deal with a wide variety of common medical issues. They’re important to give relief from pain…
1 MAKE & MODEL Vertx EDC Essential Bag CAPACITY 12 liters MSRP $110 URL www.vertx.com NOTES Due to customer demand, Vertx is rereleasing three of its most popular concealed-carry-compatible packs in new colors to make them even more low profile. In addition to the original black and smoke gray varieties, the EDC Essential Bag is now available in Greener Pastures for a more discrete deskjockey look. It’s a small go-bag (12 by 12 by 6 inches) that lets you off-body carry the essentials, from a compact handgun and a med kit to your wallet and car keys. If you need more capacity, Vertx now also offers the EDC Gamut Bag in Loden Green and the Professional Rifle Garment Bag in Bracken Brown. 2 MAKE & MODEL Helle of Norway Bleja…
1 MAKE & MODEL Burris Veracity PH 4-20X50 RETICLE Rapid Cross MOA MSRP $1,560 URL burrisoptics.com NOTES Burris Optics’ Veracity PH 4-20x50 riflescope is crafted for precision with a Rapid Cross MOA illuminated reticle and ED glass for clear vision. The illumination is powered by a CR2450 battery, and the reticle can be adjusted in 1/10 MOA increments. This high-tech optic features integrated PEK (Programmable Elevation Knob) technology that computes elevation adjustments and indicates them on a heads-up digital display. It weighs about 29 ounces, is 13.8 inches in length, and uses a 30mm main tube, making it compatible with many styles of optic mounts. This model seamlessly integrates with the BurrisConnect app, providing essential ballistic data for accurate shots without manual input, suited for shooters who value precision and innovation…
There are many reasons why people have had to run through the wilderness and evade much larger forces in a desperate pursuit of their freedom or life. Ranging from world wars, ideological or ethnic genocide, or widespread chaos and a failure of civility. Regardless of the reason, when it’s required, the skill becomes much like a parachute to a man falling from the sky — extremely helpful. Initiating the first phase of evasion should occur as soon as it becomes clear that avoiding a larger, more powerful force is necessary. Again, it could be an undercover operative getting discovered and needing to break contact. Or a downed helicopter pilot, waking after a crash far beyond the friendly lines. Or perhaps it’s a small family trying to get to their bug-out…
1 MAKE & MODEL Tuff Possum The Entry Kit WEIGHT 2.1 ounces MSRP $106 URL tuffpossumgear.com NOTES Imagine something as simple as small, interlocking metal bits keeping you or your loved ones from food, medical supplies, or shelter during a disaster. Tuff Possum has considered this and put together a compact solution. The Entry Kit has a tool for many of the most common locks that may be encountered in an emergency situation. The EZ Card is used like a credit card to bypass latches. Also provided in the credit card-sized Entry Kit holder is the Covert Bypass Multi-Tool, an array of jigglers and comb-picks, Quick Stick Pro for cheaper foreign locks or filing cabinets, and two EZ Decoders for locks with a row of spinning numbers or letters. To tackle…
Survival, at its core, is not just about enduring the physical challenges of a harsh environment — it’s about conquering the mind. When crisis strikes, it’s often the ability to remain calm and focused that separates those who adapt from those who fall apart. While many obsess over the right tools or skills, the true test lies in mastering our mental and emotional state. In moments of extreme pressure, clarity of thought can become the most powerful weapon we possess. Few understand this balance between mental toughness and survival better than Tom Sarge. He believes that true resilience starts from within, long before you encounter danger. His philosophy centers around mental preparedness, a concept that often takes a back seat in the world of survival training but proves crucial when…
Games involving hiding are a core memory for most people’s childhoods, and this fact holds true across all recorded human history. Why? We think it’s a function of having to learn early on in our lives how to effectively avoid predators who may be actively hunting us. Likewise, we must also learn how to effectively hunt prey (or other predators) who are determined not to be found. Both halves of hide and seek can be directly tied back to evolutionary adaptations required to survive in a hostile world. Unfortunately, while the world has grown more developed, it hasn’t become any less hostile. Yet there are very few outlets in adult life that require us to rehearse or hone those hiding and seeking skillsets. One of those outlets is the Special…
Just because you’re of-grid doesn’t mean you have to be out of touch. Previously we covered using ham radio as an alternative to cell phone and other wireless communication (OFFGRID Summer 2013) — but there’s another option. Satellite phones will allow you to keep in touch with everyone you need to, and it is as simple to operate as dialing a phone. Advantages to satellite phones over traditional mobile phones in times of emergency or disaster are obvious. Because they communicate directly with orbiting satellites, satellite-based phones are not dependent on terrestrial cell towers. This means they are completely independent of the power grid and traditional mobile telecommunications infrastructure. As long as you have a charged battery, you can not only make and receive calls, but texts and email as…
Invitations gave almost nothing away, which was the point. Applicants filled out an authorization request, waited for a quiet yes, and then booked flights to Pittsburgh. Staff met them at the airport, made small talk that revealed little, and waved them into an SUV that rolled out of the city and into the Pennsylvania hills. Phones lost signal as the road wound past farms and timber lots, and conversation settled into the kind of silence that comes when people realize the plan belongs to someone else for the moment. An hour later the vehicles turned into the driveway of the Ben Franklin Range, a sprawling property with steep ridgelines and pockets of cedar swamp. The lodge felt like a modern hunting camp built for small units, with common rooms that…
For those seeking more than a typical getaway, these handpicked wilderness escapes offer more than just scenic views. They challenge your grit, test your limits, and immerse you in landscapes where survival and adventure go hand in hand. Planning a backcountry trek or craving time off the grid? These destinations deliver the perfect blend of raw beauty and adventure. First, we visit the green heart of the Amazon to an exotic location just a few kilometers from the landlocked city of Leticia. Next, the Ben Franklin Range brings us a little closer to home without skimping on the adventure. Tanimboca Nature Reserve Adventure Appeal Tanimboca Nature Reserve turns 75 acres of protected Amazon forest into your personal playground. Sleep high in palm-thatched treehouses, glide through the canopy by zip line,…
On the first day of Undisclosed all the participants were issued the gear they would be using over the course of the event. Part of their setup included the Mission First Tactical ACHRO 22L EDC Backpack loaded with some minimalist survival essentials. While I received the same pack, my role as support staff and field photographer put me in the position to require a bit more gear, so I decided to modify my loadout to accommodate my duties for the event. Like the participants, I was facing long days and nights in the intense summer heat while traversing the rough terrain of the Ben Franklin Range. Keeping my kit as minimalist as possible to keep the weight down and reduce fatigue were top of mind when building out my kit.…
Travel today, to just about anywhere in the world, is accessible to most. But the risks involved in travel, especially for the international traveler, are many. However, taking a few precautions and developing a security minded lifestyle can make your journey safe and enjoyable. When considering international travel these days, applying the lessons learned and countermeasures I used as a special agent will help keep you return with enjoyable memories. Prior to travel, always make sure you are fit to do so. Having a clean bill of health and more than enough prescriptions (if necessary) is a foundation level prep. Always anticipate being delayed while traveling and carry the provisions necessary to get you home without missing a beat. Never pack prescriptions in checked luggage, they need to be in…
Winter months bring serious threats for anyone spending time outdoors. Snow, wind, and freezing temperatures cause a host of complications, including an increased risk of hypothermia. This threat is generally understood by those with an adventurous spirit venturing in the frozen outdoors. However, even a small lack of understanding can cause an inconvenient situation to quickly turn into an emergency. Ultimately, it doesn’t matter if you are an intrepid adventurer or a preparedness-minded individual just going about your daily life. Understanding how hypothermia can occur, what can be done to prevent it, and how to treat someone in a hypothermic state can go a long way to helping us stay healthy and prepared through the winter months. Thermoregulation To understand how hypothermia occurs and the impact it has on our…
For some, the holidays and winter months bring more isolation than cheer. The cold months test both body and mind, and survival can depend on more than just firewood and food. Here’s how to protect your mental health when darker months close in. The first Christmas I spent alone wasn’t in a snowbound cabin or a remote survival shelter but rather a quiet night alone in my own home. I was on call for emergency mental health crises for my area, while my spouse visited family. I couldn’t travel with her. Outside, the streets were empty, the air dry and sharp, and the sky clouded with that dark “winter gray” that seems to hover from November to March in some states. It was sprinkling wet, fluffy snow, something I would…
In 2025, the simplicity of communication barely registers as a thought. Imagine your ancestors from a century ago learning about the information and communication potential of the phone in your pocket. The idea that global communication could be so effortless would leave them dumbfounded. These capabilities are easy to take for granted — right up until they’re gone. As long as the cellular infrastructure holds, communication isn’t much of a concern. It remains the easiest and most widely accessible link to the outside world. But anyone who has lived through even a brief outage knows how fast things can go sideways. So, what happens when the usual networks go dark? Few places are safe from natural disasters, and even fewer could avoid the effects of a cyberattack, EMP, or solar…
Being a search-and-rescue volunteer can be as demanding (physically and mentally) as it is rewarding, but having quality equipment designed to help you out in that role can certainly make it easier. In the wilderness, it’s imperative that you have easy access to your most important tools and equipment across preparedness domains to reduce the chances that you become a casualty yourself while you’re helping others. A good chest rig excels in keeping your most critical gear in your workspace while keeping your hands free as needed. One very fine option, and my personal favorite is the Hill People Gear SAR Kit Bag, specifically the full-size version 2. The Bag The bag itself is constructed from 500d Cordura nylon, with an internal volume of 215.63 cubic inches. It is largely…
Richard Bottomley, who has worked in Antarctica, says: “Your body knows what it wants! If you’re a chocolate eater, then your brain knows that chocolate is a great source of fats and sugars. When we’re cold, our body metabolizes either stored or consumed sugar. This process produces heat. Chocolate is a good source of simple sugars, which can be easily converted to heat — easier than breaking down stored glycogen from the muscles or liver and much faster than breaking down stored fats.” There are a lot of reasons why chocolate is a good survival food. It’s energy-dense, providing high-calorie, long-lasting energy from fats and carbohydrates. It also contains protein, vitamins, minerals, and beneficial antioxidants, which support bodily functions and morale. Its high caloric content in a small, portable package…
Auxiliary Manufacturing has done a great job translating the fixed blade version of the Pocket Bowie into a practical folder that is designed to tackle the same tasks. While folding knives have their inherent limitations when it comes to some hard-use tasks, neither the original fixed blade or the folding version of the Pocket Bowie were designed to be a hard-use survival knives — both are designed to be capable EDC knife with some viable self-defense features and both variants deliver in a big way. The Pocket Bowie became an instant classic thanks to the ergonomic handle design, aggressive piercing point, compact size, and surprising utilitarian functionality in everyday tasks. This led to several new knives including the larger Pocket Bowie XL and several different blade styles using the Pocket…
Reuben Bolieu is a man who trades tents for tarps, drumsticks for jungle knives, and panic for a steady pulse. A California native turned global adventurer, he’s whittled his adventure life down to a 4.5-pound pack and a philosophy forged in frostbite, bear chases, and seismic shakes. From Big Bear’s campsites to Peru’s rainsoaked jungles, Reuben’s path — part ultralight backpacker, part survivalist scribe — spans decades of mistakes and triumphs. With a camera in hand and a story to tell, he’s less about mastering the wild and more about learning from it, one steady, deliberate step at a time. You’ve been on some wild adventures. What sparked that interest? Reuben Bolieu: I’ve been hooked on camping since I was a kid. My grandfather would haul me, my cousin, my…
When the chips are down for whatever reason — be it a power outage, civil unrest, or the grid is down — you still gotta eat. Urban survival comes in a variety of flavors. Not all are great. Electric or gas stoves will probably be obsolete in times of trouble. Urban survival hobo stoves to the rescue! Why a Hobo Stove Imagine the attention of sight and smell a big ol’, cozy, warming campfire gives off. In an urban survival scenario, you want the opposite. Less attention is a good thing to strive for (unless search and rescue is looking to evacuate you or your group). A hobo stove helps you fly under the radar with a small, contained fire to stay out of view from the possible unsavory characters…
Anyone who has ever studied for a difficult test understands that memory devices such as sayings, rhymes, and abbreviations can be extremely helpful for remembering key information. Similar memory devices can help us be more prepared to recall important survival skills. S.T.O.P. (Stay Put, Think, Observe, and Plan) and the O.O.D.A. (Observe, Orient, Decide, and Act) loop are two very popular ways of framing your mindset in an emergency situation. The rule of 3s (3 minutes without air, 3 hours without shelter, 3 days without water, 3 weeks without food) is a popular way of recalling survival priorities. Other catchy number and letter memory devices have been introduced over the years to organize processes and groups of ideas with different levels of success. With fire starting, we know there’s a…
Summer is here! Now that the days have grown long, and the smell of barbecue is on the wind, we’re ready to spend quality downtime outdoors. As temperatures become more amiable to hikes and overnight camping, it’s finally time to venture off to find a trail, or endeavor to create a new one. Be sure to inspect and inventory all your gear before you leave the blacktop. Top off that canteen and make sure you have your fire-starting tools. Have fun. Make memories. Keep your wits about you, and you’ll go far. Top Picks There are few things that bring people together like a good campfire. Be it morning or night, a fire possesses an ancestral pull on the human psyche. Around a blazing fire is where early humans sought…
For those seeking more than a typical getaway, these handpicked wilderness escapes offer more than just scenic views — they challenge your grit, test your limits, and immerse you in landscapes where survival and adventure go hand in hand. Whether you’re prepping for a backcountry trek or looking to unplug off the grid, these destinations offer the perfect blend of raw beauty and adventure. First up is a submission by Caleb Stillians of Outfitter Services and our first international adventure. After, we get some island vibes going with an exciting location on the island of Kauai. Adventure Appeal: The Karoo Mountains aren’t just another scenic destination — they’re a rugged testing ground for those who crave adventure. From sheer rock formations to deep gorges like Meiringspoort, every step tells a story…
Covert Physical Surveillance (CPS) is a powerful tool, often employed by law enforcement to gather intelligence, monitor suspects, and pursue criminals undetected. But these techniques aren’t exclusive to the good guys. Increasingly, CPS is leveraged by criminals to stalk, intimidate, and even victimize unsuspecting targets. Understanding how CPS operates — and more critically, how to counter it — is vital not only for those in law enforcement but for civilians, too. The threat isn’t just hypothetical. According to the U.S. Department of Justice’s Stalking Victimization Report (2019), about 1.3 percent of individuals aged 16 or older — equating to 3.4 million people — were victims of stalking that year. While this figure represents a slight drop from previous years, the danger remains very real. Disturbingly, only 29 percent of stalking…
During the American Civil War, soldiers carried their supplies in haversacks. In addition to the supplies transported by boat, each soldier was responsible for carrying 40 rounds of ammunition in cartridge boxes and four days’ worth of rations in their haversacks. A haversack consists of a rugged canvas sheet that folds around its contents, including a bedroll, clothing, daily rations, and personal items, all secured by flaps and adjustable buckle straps. Incredibly, more than 150 years later, the design of haversacks has changed little. Old-School Oilcloth The oilcloth pays homage to the haversacks of yesteryear. In a world filled with high-tech fabrics and waterproof membranes, the rugged simplicity of an oilcloth exudes undeniable romance. With its distinctive glossy finish, this time-honored material conjures images of adventurous explorers and weathered travelers.…
One of the fundamentals of fighting well is to know your enemy. When we’re talking about fighting violent crime and criminals, there are a lot of varied opinions. Some people see violent criminals as victims of a flawed economic system or argue they’re just mentally ill, while others see them as cunning rational actors engaged in rational acts. Hopefully, the essay that follows will give you a quick summary of who criminals are, how criminals think, how they pick their victims, and how to truly win confrontations with them. Any time we’re generalizing, we must be careful to remember there are always exceptions. The discussion that follows reflects the reality of a Western country with a somewhat intact legal system and a place where scarcity is a forgotten concern. As…
Shoot, move, communicate — these three skills are critical to your success in any gunfight. Unfortunately, many modern firearms training programs only address shooting, encouraging students to build technical proficiency by standing on a flat range and punching holes in paper targets, month after month and year after year. Retired U.S. Navy SEAL Rich Graham set out to build a more well-rounded and realistic curriculum through his training company Full Spectrum Warrior. Rather than only three skills, the FSW program is based on 12 pillars, which include health (diet, physical, and mental), movement and strength, communication and teamwork, situational awareness, work ethic and attitude, integrity, and, of course, being dangerous enough to “be a victor, not a victim.” Recently, Safariland invited me to attend an intense two-day training event at…
Let’s start off by looking at the abbreviation SERE: Survival, Evasion, Resistance, Escape. Now, picture what SERE training looks like in your mind. There is a high chance that you’re picturing military personnel in some type of austere and remote environment, faces painted with camouflage, hiding from hostiles just across the river or mountain range. Now, what I want to do is dispel the myth that SERE is only for the military and teach you that with awareness, an appropriate survival kit, and properly dressing for each situation, you can confidently navigate and mitigate life-threatening situations. Survival Separating the concept of survival from the broader framework of SERE is a logical starting point. Survival, at its core, encompasses enduring and overcoming challenges in situations such as a plane crash in…
Over the last several years, recce has become a popular topic. Recce, short for reconnaissance, is simply information gathering or surveying of an area. This is typically thought of in a military role, but it’s also useful for hunters or even for checking a resupply or escape route during a disaster scenario. Recce is meant to be non-kinetic — if you encounter a threat, the goal is to break contact ASAP — and low visibility. This means minimal gear and austere conditions. To successfully complete the task of infiltrating an area, gathering information, and exfiltrating, you’ll need highly capable gear and a good system for carrying it. The Low Vis Gear ISR pack (Intelligence, Surveillance, Reconnaissance) is a purpose-driven midsized pack with approximately 35 liters internal capacity. The focus of…
Founded by two retired Green Berets, Spartan Blades has a well-earned reputation for excellence. While many of their designs are jaw-dropping gorgeous, they aren’t just wall hangers or safe queens. Every single one is built for hard use. The Spartan-Ronin Torii is an excellent example. The Torii was designed to be the ultimate close-quarters combat knife, and it’s designed by people who know that subject matter intimately. It’s a collaboration between Spartan Blades and Tu Lam of Ronin Tactics. They wanted to commemorate the Green Berets who have served at Torii Station in Okinawa, Japan. This knife is a tribute to them and is intended to honor the C-1-1 CIF (CINC’s Extremist Force), a unit that has a formidable reputation for close-quarters battle and tactical prowess. Being the curious sort,…
I first met Greg Mihovich while training at Deep Woods Ranch, home to former SEAL and firearms trainer Rich Graham — owner of both Deep Woods Ranch and his training company, Full Spectrum Warrior. Greg and Rich are coauthors of some of FSW’s training material, including their unique Combat Mobility Program, which we’ll showcase in more depth in an upcoming issue. During my time at the ranch, I had an opportunity to sit down with Greg and discuss his background and the experiences that brought him to partnering up with Full Spectrum Warrior. I was quite surprised to learn about the landmark disasters that had tested this soft-spoken man with a calmly commanding presence. His story is not only a Cinderella-slipper fit for the guiding principles of this brand but…
The Premise: The Baofeng UV-5R and its derivatives are perhaps the most prolific handheld radios in use today due to their simplicity, versatility, and low price. In a SHTF or grid-down scenario, a Baofeng may be one of the few widely available communication tools. The Guerilla Guide is written for all levels of experience, using techniques taught to special operations personnel, but with the end user in mind. The 411: The guide consists of seven chapters and three appendices. Topics include field programming, improvised antennas, operation, and communications security. Chapter one starts with an introduction to the Baofeng radio and its capabilities and continues with communications basics and the three roles of communication: sustainment, tactical, and clandestine/strategic. The author explains that the Baofeng operates as a dual-band radio, transmitting in…
As the summer months approached, several officials and numerous media outlets reported that due to high temperatures and an overtaxed energy infrastructure, we should expect rolling blackouts. This has already turned out to be true in my region of the Midwest, having numerous power outages. Losing power, and subsequently losing indoor climate control, makes the human body more susceptible to ambient temperatures. Normally, this isn’t such a big deal but can quickly turn into a serious problem if it’s too hot. Having personally experienced heat injuries on more than one occasion, it’s a situation that I take every precaution with. My inspiration to put this bag together came to me when my significant other ended up needing to spend the summer months in an urban area on the West Coast…
With a multigenerational history of firearms experience, teaching, and a deep understanding of all the intricacies of shotguns, Matt Haught and his father, Rob, are true experts in their craft. Rob has been training law enforcement officers and members of the military for more than 30 years, specializing in the tactical and defensive applications of shotguns. He even helped develope the shotgun curriculum for the FBI’s special operations teams. Following in his dad’s footsteps, Matt has cultivated skills with a variety of firearms. He enjoys shooting multi-gun competitions as well as specialty matches such as the BUG (Back-Up Gun) match held in Tucson, Arizona. Additionally, Matt has a wealth of historical knowledge involving firearms, including noteworthy incidents, and has written several articles for our sister publication RECOIL magazine. Combined, the…
Rimfires have always played a crucial role in preparing for disasters. The ammunition and even the guns themselves are lighter than their centerfire counterparts. They are accurate, have virtually no recoil impulse, and excel at pest control or taking small game such as squirrel and even grouse. Most intelligent shooters understand this and own rimfire rifles and target pistols for these reasons. But what about a pocket pistol? Not too long ago, if you asked a self-defense instructor what their favorite rimfire pocket gun might be, you would hear a derisive laugh followed by, “I’d rather have a knife.” However, times change and materials improve, as do manufacturing methods and ammunition. Compared to a centerfire handgun, a rimfire pocket pistol’s range might be decreased, and applications might be more specific,…
MAKE & MODEL 1 Sightron S1 4-12x40 G2 RETICLE Duplex, HHR, Mil-Dot MSRP $270 URL sightron.com NOTES Mounting the right optic to your firearm is one of the most important modifications you can make. When it comes to targets way out in the distance, a magnified optic can make shooting precisely much easier. The Sightron S1 4-12x40 G2 is waterproof, shockproof, and fogproof and will have you on target in no time. It features a variable magnification range of 4x to 12x, and a 40mm objective lens that provides a wide field of view. The multi-coated optics deliver bright and clear images even in low-light conditions. Built to withstand the recoil of most rifles, it features a nitrogen charged, O-ring sealed one-piece main tube constructed from aircraft-grade aluminum. With several reticle…
Preparedness is not one-dimensional, it’s the amalgamation of a wide variety of skills, knowledge, and experience. It’s not just about knowing how to hunt, start a fire, or purify water, nor is it only relevant in extreme disaster scenarios. True preparedness is a daily commitment that entails everything from your health and financial stability to how you maintain relationships within your family and community. This realization led former Navy SEAL Rich Graham to develop his Full Spectrum Warrior philosophy based on 12 pillars that are relevant to every individual. And like any good leader, Graham doesn’t just teach these principles — he lives by them. When he’s not lifting weights, sparring, or shooting, he’s working to expand his homestead-turned-training compound, raising Belgian Malinois service dogs for his nonprofit organization, or…
If you’re looking for a versatile and reliable tool that can handle various tasks, from kitchen prep to outdoor adventures, look no further than a paring knife. This simple-yet-efficient knife design has been a staple in kitchens worldwide for decades, and for good reason. Its compact size and sharp blade make it an excellent choice for precision cuts, peeling, and coring fruits and vegetables. However, the usefulness of a paring knife continues beyond the kitchen. Its lightweight design and thin edge make it an ideal tool for outdoor enthusiasts, hunters, and butchers. Let’s explore the advantages of a paring knife for a wide range of camp craft and utility tasks, while uncovering a unique collaboration between a renowned security consultant and a leading knife manufacturer that has resulted in an…
Oh, the great outdoors. It’s the perfect place to escape the chaos of the city and reconnect with nature. But what happens when your day hike goes wrong, and you find yourself stranded in the wilderness overnight? That’s precisely what happened to me, and boy, did I learn the importance of packing the right gear. It all started as a simple day hike, but the weather had other plans. A sudden snowstorm hit; before I knew it, I was lost and alone in the wilderness. I realized I was in for a long night. But thanks to my trusty pack and strong mindset, I was able to make the best of the situation. Mission Specific I used to go for speed and miles in the woods. These days, my goals…
Aboard: On or in the vessel Abaft: In the direction of the stern Above board: In plain view on the deck Absolute bearing: The heading of the vessel in relation to True North Aft: The rear portion of the vessel, toward the stern Aground: Vessel resting on the bottom of the seafoor Aid to navigation (ATON): A device, not on the vessel, implemented to help determine position and course or to provide warning of a hazard Alee: The lee side of a ship or to leeward Aloft: The rigging of a sailing ship; above the ship’s highest solid structure; or high above Alongside: By the side of a ship or pier (A)midship: The middle portion of the vessel Anchor: Typically a hook or plow designed to secure to the seafoor…
Our philosophy is the same for pretty much every tool or product in our pile of goodies. If we can’t find it, or if the choices on the market don’t meet our needs, we create it. If the choices available on the market meet our needs, but are too expensive, then we make it ourselves. If the available options meet our needs, and it would cost us more to make it ourselves, then we purchase it. Our hydroponic system is a combination of three choices. Some of the components come from a hydroponic store and others we found at big-box stores for very little money, and we used tools that many people have to assemble it. Our skill level may be higher than most people, but we assure you that…