Best products from r/Survival

It depends on what you need. I enjoy Schrade knives, and some good options are:

• Schf9. More if a yard tool than a knife. If you need to lug around 1+ pounds of quarter inch steel to make the wilderness your bitch, choose this. I briefly owned one of these before I came to my senses and returned it because it was too much ###KNIFE### for me. Large and heavy.
  
• Schf36. It's compared favorably to a Becker BK2, but it's significantly cheaper. Good balance between size and weight. Overall a solid survival and Bushcraft knife. The Schf36D comes with better handle scales.
  
• Schf42. Hailed as an excellent camp knife and a respectable Bushcraft knife. Lighter (and presumably a bit less beat-the-fuck-out-of-it-able) than the Schf36, but still a nice option.
  
• Schf30. My knife. It's a 5 inch blade with a super comfortable grip, and its weight is a bit over a third of a pound. Good option for a smaller, lightweight survival/Bushcraft knife. Not good if your hands are dummy thicc, as the handle is smallish.
  
  Only thing to look out for: Schrade sheaths aren't super good. They work, but they're not as nice as premium brands.

For the rehydration salts... I use RecoverORS. It's expensive for what it is.. but also the best I have found. More hydrating than even Pedialyte and more electrolytes than that and Gatorade or any sports drinks.

The SOL Bivvy weighs only 3.5 oz and packs pretty small. It looks bigger in pics then it is.

My favorite energy bars are Soldier Fuel - 3 year shelf life, ideal balance of protein, fat and carbs, give you TONS of energy, and also some of the best tasting out of all the energy bars (aside from maybe Clif, but those only have like a 6 month shelf life). They were designed originally for soldiers on the field that needed a quick boost (previously HOOAH bars), so you know they are loaded with nutrients, more so than the average bar.. and field tested by soldiers. They also have peanut butter flavor but I'm crazy for the chocolate. I have a problem saving them in my survival packs because I end up eating them as snacks. It's good they come by the case :). But then it's a good idea to actually LIKE the food you put in your survival kits. Nothing like food comfort in a bad situation. It's the little things.

Like I can suffer pretty bad from low blood sugar crashes. One of those things will keep me going for hours.

$150 is plenty of budget for a good knife. This one is just slightly over that budget but will last you the rest of your life. It's kind of my dream survival knife.

The Fallkniven F1 is very popular as well and right in your price range.

Currently I use this knife which is also very good.

If you want to go a little less expensive still, Becker makes some good ones such as the Bk16. I know the Becker doesn't look anything like "hand made", but I have the BK2- I used paint remover to take the black coating off the blade, replaced the plastic handles with micarta and stained it to look more like wood, and built a leather sheath for it. It's a beautiful knife now. Too bad it's so goddamn heavy.

You could also go with something like the Mora bushcraft. I have that one also, very decent knife.

You could even just get a regular Mora or a Condor bushlore which are even more economical options.

To add to what Ryan said, there are also a bunch of good books on the subject, most of which can be found for free.

John 'Lofty' Wiseman's SAS Survival Handbook is extremely comprehensive (around 600 pages) and very information-dense.

The US Army Survival Manual is also pretty good, but it's not as comprehensive or detailed as Wiseman's book.

Although it's more of a bushcraft book, Mors Kochanski's Bushcraft is extremely well done. His descriptions are easy to read, but fairly comprehensive, and are paired with detailed sketches and pictures.

Mainly, just go out and practice. You're already a capable outdoorsman, so it shouldn't be too much of a hassle. If you wanna take courses, just search around for courses near where you are, or maybe look at something like NOLS. Hope that's helpful.

I wouldn't recommend a "titanium" knife, firstly because for $10, it's not titanium. It's probably some chinesium knife that won't hold an edge very well. Secondly I don't recall Camillus having a great reputation due to materials and QC.

If you're looking for a good budget knife, I know Ka-Bar and Becker make good ones, and if you can swing an Izula, that would be my choice. Here are some links. Izula Ka-Bar 1 Ka-Bar 2 Ka-Bar 3.

The reason I'm recommending Ka-Bar and ESEE is that they both use 1095 carbon steel which is an excellent choice in toughness and edge retention. I almost forgot Mora, a superb Swedish knife that is renowned for its steel and edge retention, and used worldwide by folks in the workforce and outdoors communities.

The ESEE and Ka-Bars will run you $40-$60, and the mora will run you about $15. You can get Moras and Izulas at Cabelas, but Amazon is also great. Good luck.

Sawyer mini for $19: http://www.amazon.com/Sawyer-Products-SP128-Filtration-System/dp/B00FA2RLX2

Anyone looking at Lifestraw should look at the Sawyer as a (better) alternative.

Lifestraw:

264 gallons total filtration per straw.
Shelf Life: 5 years when stored at room temperature (package may say 3 years).
.2 micron filtration

Sawyer filter:

100,000 gallons (actually more, but this is the guarantee)
Shelf life: no limit on shelf life. Only temperature constraint is it should not be allowed to freeze.
.1 micron filtration

Lifestraw is $20. Sawyer is $20. I own the Sawyer and the flow through it is easy. It comes with a squeeze bag, but also attaches to regular bottles. Fill an empty Pepsi/Coke/Water bottle with nasty water, screw on the Sawyer and you are good to go. It works with Platypus bags, and as an inline or end filter for any hydration bladder.

If there is something special about the Lifestraw that I am missing, please let me know. I see tons of news, charaties buying them for 3rd world countries, and outdoor enthusiast recommending it. I do not see any advantage it has over a Sawyer filter.

Edit: One comparison: http://prepforshtf.com/sawyer-mini-water-filter-vs-lifestraw/

For me, the multiple ways of using the Sawyer have been the biggest benefit. I've used my Squeeze in a bucket gravity system, attached to bottles (ultralight backpacking) and with a straw (like a Lifestraw). I will often squeeze enough water to fill a Gatorade bottle or two before moving away from the water source. Now I have the mini and the flow rate is even better - best of any filter I've ever used, and it is still incredibly versatile. I have bought one for every person in my camping / hiking group to replace their filters. They use and love them too.

I had an Ontario RAT-5 for a while. About the same size as an ESEE 5, but with a thinner blade and full-flat grind. The handle was uncomfortably bulky and although it held up to my abuse, I just didn't like it. The blade was thin enough to do finer carving tasks, but it was too wide and the edge profile was terrible. I ended up using my Mora knife and Fiskars hatchet more and the RAT-5 was relegated to batoning duty and even in that I preferred the hatchet. In fact, I carved my first bow drill kit with that Fiskars.

I was considering stepping up to an Ontario RAT-7, but instead I traded the RAT-5 for a KaBar Becker BK7, which is a BEAST of a knife. Longer than an ESEE 5, but just as thick and with a similar profile. It really impressed me with the amount of work it could do and how easy it was to use, but it was heavy and just too fat to do anything but chop and split, so again, I was using my Mora and hatchet for most stuff.

I finally decided to try a different direction and traded the BK7 for a much smaller ESEE 4. Around the same time I bought a Bahco Laplander, and I am in love with this combo. The Bahco eats through 1-2" branches with ease (while generating plenty of sawdust for tinder) and the ESEE is just long enough to baton them into kindling and carve up some feather sticks. The best part is, the ESEE 4 and Bahco together weigh about as much as the BK7 in its sheath, and take up about as much space, but they are FAR more versatile.

I realize the ESEE 4 may be just out of your price range, but Kabar makes a similar knife called the BK16. However, the ESEE comes with a lifetime warranty.

I still take my Fiskars with me occasionally, but for weekend camping, I can process plenty of firewood with the ESEE and Bahco faster than I ever could with any of the bigger knives. If I needed to build a shelter or was venturing into unfamiliar territory, I'd want the hatchet because it's such a capable tool.

The ESEE 5 was designed for downed pilots who can't fit a hatchet or folding saw into their kit but may need to build a shelter, so they made it big and heavy. I understand first hand that big knives are appealing and certainly have their strong points, but their size, weight and thickness can make them difficult to use in a lot of ways and in reality, a big knife will never chop as well as a decent hatchet, because the knife's weight is centered just above the handle, not directly behind a huge wedge that drives into the wood. What you really want in a survival knife is versatility and I've spent a lot of time, money and energy figuring out that size doesn't add versatility.

In addition to identifying edible plants, make sure you can identify poisonous plants as well.

http://www.amazon.com/Field-Venomous-Animals-Poisonous-Plants/dp/039593608X/ref=sr_1_4?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1346615211&sr=1-4.

I prefer field guides with color photographs over drawings; they are generally much easier to ID from a good photo, though a diagram of branching structures of leaf veination is helpful as well. The Peterson Field Guide series is great and usually includes both, but they only have an Eastern and Central US edible plant guide. The Tilford book mentioned by eto_samoe is good, as is Edible Wild Plants by Elias and Dykeman, though that one covers all of North America and isn't as thorough about any one area.


Some edible plants in N. Az area to get you started, both native and introduced species. Anything that may have come into contact with surface water should be boiled to prevent microbial infection:

Squawbush: http://www.laspilitas.com/nature-of-california/plants/rhus-trilobata (possibility for those very allergic to poison ivy/sumac to have an allergic reaction. Avoid if you get rashes from contact with the poisonous variety. Otherwise, the fruit is edible and you can make a lemonade from it) dangerous look alike: poison ivy and poison oak.

Prickly pear cactus: not bad, just avoid the spines. http://www.motherearthnews.com/real-food/how-to-eat-cactus-zmaz84zloeck.aspx

Barrel cactus: The flesh of the cactus does not taste very good, and should be a survival food only. Some varieties can cause digestion problems and should be avoided in large amounts. The fruits aren't too bad, and generally don't have spines. http://tucsoncitizen.com/wryheat/2009/08/01/edible-desert-plants-barrel-cactus-fruit/

Asparagus: you likely won't find this in the wild much, but along roadsides where there's a bit of water it can be pretty common. Was just in Southern CO and southern Utah, and it was surprisingly common along highways along with fennel. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7RZTo8vhyfE

Cattail: not the tastiest, but a good starch. ditches, pond edges, etc. root sprouts are not bad, inner white core near the root base is pretty good. Green flower spikes can be cooked and eaten like corn. dangerous look alike: all iris species like yellow and blue flag. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Typha

Lamb's Quarters (aka pigweed/amaranth): common in disturbed areas, more and more common in farm fields as it is the 'Superweed' from the news. good green vegetable high in vit A and C. the grain is an excellent food. http://www.sacredearth.com/ethnobotany/foraging/lambsquarters.php http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chenopodium_berlandieri dangerous look alikes: some species with a strong odor or bad taste can be slightly toxic. look for this specific variety.

Poverty weed: found in dry, high alkaline soil. seeds can be used for flour, leaves can be eaten as a boiled green. http://plants.usda.gov/java/profile?symbol=IVAX

Plantains: not the banana like fruit, but the broadleafed ground plant. Common in disturbed areas with at least a little water (like my yard on the east coast). young leaves and seeds are edible and fairly good boiled. http://botanical.com/botanical/mgmh/p/placom43.html

Feildcress: super bitter green. young shoots edible. seeds make a good pepper seasoning http://biology.missouristate.edu/Herbarium/Plants%20of%20the%20Interior%20Highlands/Flowers/Lepidium%20campestre.jpg

European goat's beard: very young leaves are a good green, root can be cooked like you would a potato. Only harvest when flower is present, as it's very easy to identify only then. http://herbs-treatandtaste.blogspot.com/2011/11/yellow-goats-beard-edible-root-with.html

Currants other than sticky currant (wax currant for example is yummy). Berries are tart and wonderful. Sticky currant has a sticky coating on stems, leaves and fruit, and will make you hurl. http://plants.usda.gov/java/profile?symbol=RICE

Pinyon pine: in JP forest areas, the pine nuts from the cones are a personal favorite. Have find them at the right time, though http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pinyon_pine

Wild Onion: bulbs can be eaten summer and fall. I mention this only because you shouldn't have death camus in N. Az. That said, do not eat something you think is a wild onion if it doesn't smell like onion (or you're gonna have a bad time). http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2xVzk5FOhpg



Some poisonous plants to avoid:
Southwestern coralbean. Bright red beans, looks like it could be edible, will kill you very effectively. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Erythrina_herbacea

Coyote Melon: Looks like a potentially edible melon, but it isn't. makes a nice soap in a pinch, though. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cucurbita_palmata

You shouldn't have Death Camus in your area, but it's possible. don't eat wild onions or wild garlic if you're not 110% sure you've identified them correctly. http://www.fs.fed.us/wildflowers/kids/coloring/pages/mtndeathcamas.html

*Dogbane: Good fiber, toxic. http://www.primitiveways.com/hemp_dogbane.html

I love my small forest axe. Best survival purchase i've made. I wouldn't stray from that idea, unless you decide to refurbish an antique hatchet. I've seen people fix up sixty year old plumb scout hatchets to gransfors quality.

For knives, i use my moraknive survival and the condor bushlore. The bushlore a hardy-ass knife and it's only about thirty bucks. I use the mora regularly. That particular one is what i have, i picked it up based on the thickness of the blade, but they have far cheaper ones if you don't want to throw down that much. I believe you can get an almost identicle knife without the firesteel for around 15 bucks cheaper.
Good Review on the bushlore

Machete-wise, i love my Condor Parang. It's giant, it sharpens well, it holds an edge, and it's tough as nails. The thing is 1/4 inch thick. It's big. It also comes with a sexy leather sheath of equally high quality and durability.
I've also played around with the full size bear grylls Parang by gerber. Thing cuts like you wouldn't believe, with great weight length and balance. I use the condor, my survival bud uses the gerber. They're about equal in different ways.

IDK if some one has recommended it yet OP, but I hugely recommend getting a Becker by Ka-Bar! I love it cause it’s a tough-ass, fixed-blade knife. 5.25” blade and 10.5” overall = strong enough for prying even. There are like 3 or 4 types of blades you can buy on them... so do a little searching off the link I post below.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07CXYFDF9/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_OdvVCbV72GG8W

Edit: for a few more dollars, you can get their 7” blade. This is the one I almost went with but I didn’t quite want that large of a blade.

https://www.amazon.com/KA-BAR-BKR7-BRK-Combat-Utility/dp/B001IPMG8K/ref=mp_s_a_1_16?keywords=Ka+Bar&qid=1555911141&s=gateway&sr=8-16&utm_source=share&utm_medium=ios_app

Edit #2: I totally forgot to mention my foldable...
My nearly 4” blade, CRKT!
EVERY CRKT I’ve owned (4 or 5) has came out of the box with the sharpest blades I’ve ever purchased, by far. For the price, you can’t go wrong. They have a cheaper on that I owned previously: the CRKT M16. Just don’t use these guys to pry anything. Lol

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001A2GO6Q/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_BsvVCbNX7VFHS

The Condor Bushlore is another great knife in the thirty-forty dollar range. Heavier and more robust than a Mora, but still a pleasant looking, non threatening blade. The leather sheath is a nice bonus too. I love my moras, but i can't help but think of them as a little disposable.

I have two Leatherman tools. I have used them for over a decade and have never had any trouble with them. They are easy to sharpen and they don't have a single dot of rust on them. Every tool is going to have its limits. I wouldn't use the knife on a Leatherman as a crow bar. I have never heard anyone complain about their Leatherman.

I have seen many people complain about the Sven Saw. It seems to be high quality and the design is very convenient. However, because of its triangular design, it actually can only cut smaller branches. Perhaps you aren't intending to cut a 6 inch limb. Just know that anything thicker than probably 3 inches is probably a big pain to cut with the Sven. Also, from what I understand, the Sven Saw only takes Sven Saw Blades, which is an added inconvenience and expense.

I have a basic cheap bow saw (one piece, non foldable) that I think works great. Bonus is that you can, if needed, use it with standard hack saw blades.

I don't currently own a Mora knife, but they do seem to be universally loved. Please note however that there are several Mora knives that range from $8 to $18 (both stainless and non-stainless). They don't seem to be substantially different from the one you mentioned that is $65.

This is the Mora Bushcraft Survival knife you mentioned ($65):

http://www.amazon.com/Mora-Bushcraft-Survival-Stainless-Steel/dp/B005CAPU80


Different Mora knives are either non-stainless carbon steel or stainless. Also, the thickness of the blade varies. You can get the thicker stainless steel knife in the cheaper model ($14):

http://www.amazon.com/Lime-Green-Mora-Companion-Knife/dp/B00BU9ATS8/ref=pd_sim_sg_12

I'm sure you can find one without a lime green handle. There seem to be a thousand models of Mora knives.

Another example, slightly thinner but still stainless ($11):

http://www.amazon.com/Mora-Stainless-Steel-Camo-Knife/dp/B005K994QM/ref=pd_sim_sg_11

This one is not stainless but the steel is even thicker than the one you mentioned ($40) if durability is your priority:

http://www.amazon.com/Morakniv-Bushcraft-Sandvik-Stainless-4-3-Inch/dp/B009O01H0Y/ref=pd_sim_sg_9

This last one is almost exactly the same as the knife you mentioned, except that it is $17 instead of $65:

http://www.amazon.com/Morakniv-Companion-Stainless-Military-4-1-Inch/dp/B004ZAIXSC/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1376873143&sr=8-1&keywords=mora+knife+stainless+steel

Perhaps the price of the one you mentioned is inflated because of the sheath, but the reviews rate that sheath badly. They mention the clip disconnecting unexpectedly and also it does seem like the sharpening stone and the fire steel to be a bit of a gimmick. Fire steels are like $3 at Walmart and maybe $5 if you want the bigger military style model. The sharpening stone attached to the sheath seems to be toy like and not really functional.


Another one that seems to be the same as yours without the gimmicky sheath ($38):

http://www.amazon.com/Morakniv-Bushcraft-Outdoor-Stainless-4-3-Inch/dp/B003FYJU9A/ref=sr_1_12?ie=UTF8&qid=1376873143&sr=8-12&keywords=mora+knife+stainless+steel

There seems to be a huge variation of prices on Mora knives. The best ones seem to be the ones that are Stainless Steel and the thickness is around 0.1 or 0.098 inches.

I already own several high quality expensive knives, so I don't have a need to purchase the $65 range Mora knife. But the ones that are around $11 seem to be a great deal to use in situations where I might want to avoid damaging my expensive knife.

My favorite to purchase cheaply right now is:

http://www.amazon.com/Mora-Stainless-Steel-Camo-Knife/dp/B005K994QM/ref=pd_sim_sg_11

Because it has the hook at the front of the grip, which will help prevent your hands from slipping on to the cutting edge if you have to push into something. I think in survival situations, you hands may be tired, shaky, wet and dirty, which might make them prone to slipping. And of course, a survival situation is the absolute worst time to cut your hand.

Those are my 8 cents worth of contribution.

I'm new here, and correct me if I'm wrong, but you could really use a good shovel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VzpRh-ZE9Mo

http://www.amazon.com/Chinese-Military-Shovel-Emergency-WJQ-308/dp/B00A2GLZS8

Amazing pack though, and great documentation. You have my vote.

EDIT: Nevermind, I just re-checked the Google spreadsheet. You already have a U-Dig-It Folding Shovel and Pouch. Man, what didn't you think of?

Another cheap but effective tool is a folding hand saw. Much safer than an axe and lighter. I've got a Bahco Laplander and a high quality fixed blade knife, and that's all I take with me for wood processing. Nice and light.

For general survival/bushcraft purposes (though not for breaking a car window):
https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B004TNWD40/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1485034514&sr=8-1&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_FMwebp_QL65&keywords=morakniv&dpPl=1&dpID=31hduVz10IL&ref=plSrch
(Great quality/price ratio from Sweden)

For EDC/general cutting purposes(and gorgeous old-school looks), a small high-quality folding knife from France:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B004AMY6GS/ref=mp_s_a_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1485034837&sr=8-2&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_FMwebp_QL65&keywords=opinel+carbon&dpPl=1&dpID=51baQV0eVVL&ref=plSrch

If you want a more "modern" pocket knife that is still affordable, I recommend something from the American masters of Cold Steel like:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00U1I875Q/ref=cm_cr_arp_mb_bdcrb_top?ie=UTF8
(Gotta give some lovin' to that Aus8A japanese steel and the Scandinavian grind)

I can recommend all three, though I own only the first 2. Have fun and stay sharp!

If you're looking at foldable shovels, I'd check out the Chinese Military issue one here ---> http://www.amazon.com/Chinese-Military-Shovel-Emergency-WJQ-308/dp/B00A2GLZS8

Here's a pretty quirky government video that demonstrates the many uses of it--->https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b60OZhrTB6o

I don't have any experience with one myself, but they seem pretty useful and might be of interest to you or any other outdoorsman here.

I have a Gerber multi-tool Suspension GE22-41471. I like it but it's pretty heavy for its size and, as others have said, you don't need half the tools in the wilderness.

Go Outdoors have a selection. Might be cheaper on Amazon.

I have a folding saw which is light.

You could try a wire saw. I haven't tried one myself.

I find my folding trowel very useful.

Don't get this trowel - it's flimsy

I also have a bushcraft knife. I'm not sure it's legal to carry around (UK) all the time but I think it's ok if you're using it while camping etc. (better check if you do buy a knife).

I carry an ACR ResQLink PLB with me when I go wilderness camping (solo) in case anything happens. When you get the device, you register its serial number and attach some contact info so if you ever need to use it, they know who needs help. In an emergency, you pop up an antenna, give it line of sight to the sky, and activate it. It'll alert search and rescue and also act as a beacon for search crews who respond to the general area to locate you quicker.

I prefer this type of thing to the alternatives because I don't want to have to actively let people know I'm okay rather than actively requesting help. There's the off chance that something so bad could happen that I'd be unable to activate the unit, but I leave detailed plans with people before I leave as a backup safety plan.

Like you noted, there's no subscription plan, but the battery isn't user serviceable. I've read that you can send it in at the end of its life and pay for a replacement battery to be installed, but mine hasn't reached the end of its life yet so I haven't had to do this.

Also, consider where you carry something like this. I keep mine in a little scout bag (Arc'teryx Maka 2) when backpacking so if I ever ended up separated from my backpack in a river-crossing-gone-wrong or similar event, I'd have the PLB on me still.

Thank you for that, I just went through their line I was impressed. I think I'll keep looking however, I use a very small pack that is tight on space. The reason being that most backpacks I have used snag in the types of of tight saplings I go through snowshoeing. I like your idea adding down to mylar, such a good idea.

I used to use three of these, I wish it was still 5$: http://www.amazon.com/MPI-Weather-Emergency-Survival-Blanket/dp/B000CSJWWW/ref=pd_sbs_sg_3?ie=UTF8&refRID=1K7ZHPKY000BST0MWEBE

Yeah, I read your other link. She was an experienced through-hiker, so she had to have probably had the Ten Essentials, including map and compass? A little GPS like I linked weighs about 5 oz. Through hikers are famous for stripping their gear down gram by gram. Probably couldn't justify the weight even if it was about equal to her cell phone, which she did have.

Well-monied but weight-conscious through hikers should probably start leaving their cell phones at home, in favor of something like an inReach to stay in touch with family back home. 6.7 oz. That's what the local Forest Service volunteer society here recommends. I have a PLB, but they told us those are less useful to SAR because you can't tell them whether you have a broken leg or hypothermia or heart attack etc., just "here I am, help!"

i have a BK2. It is insanely stout and thick. Quite heavy. Can be used as a pry bar. Butt could be used for smashing rocks. It will probably outlast me. I decided to mount it in my vehicle because it is too heavy to carry comfortably for long periods of time. But will be very handy for all sorts of hard tasks when I need it. It can chop wood and do pretty much anything you want it to. But it is more of a "jack of all trades, master of none." there are other knives that specialize in certain tasks and will perform better. For a dedicated wood chopper, it is a little bit too short. It is heavy enough but the weight is balanced towards the center of the full tang, not where it hits wood. It can do it. But a longer Becker would be a better chopper. I don't recall the model numbers but Becker has a lot of options. Also I cant speak to rust issues. Its very dry here.

​

I also have a SCHF9 which is a bit longer, with better shape and weight distribution for chopping. It is a cheap knife, yet very solid. Thickness is very close to the BK2. If it rusts or gets lost I would just buy a new one. The sheath is not great but there are options out there.

https://www.amazon.com/Schrade-SCHF9-Stainless-Survival-Everyday/dp/B0033H7VI6

There are several different kinds of beacons that serve different purposes. I was carrying one of these:

https://www.amazon.com/Backcountry-Access-Tracker-Beacon-B-30000/dp/B00G7IUO9Q/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&qid=1521136945&sr=8-5&keywords=avalanche+beacon

It gives off a signal, and if you're buried in an avalanche, another person with a similar beacon can use theirs to find out where you're buried. They work, but the survival rate is low, because an avalanche that completely buries your will suffocate you in a matter of minutes. The signal can only be picked up at close range (~100 feet). They're mainly for one partner to rescue another, which assumes they don't both get buried.

There's also personal locator beacons:

https://www.amazon.com/ACR-ResQlink-Non-Buoyant-PLB-Registration/dp/B005E1OU1A/ref=sr_1_2?s=sporting-goods&ie=UTF8&qid=1521137134&sr=1-2&keywords=rescue+beacon

These send a (long distance) signal to search and rescue services, indicating that you need help. They work, but in my opinion, wouldn't have helped in this situation.

How about teaching knife safety and basic bushcraft knife skills?

Ray Mears - Knife Sharpening, safety, handling, nettle cordage full video (Safety portion begins @ 11:49)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1Vszc4g0RW8


Bushcraft: Knife safety, Bluejay1968

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K5XbI03KmSE


bushcraft knife: how to use it (and be safe!)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tz7Ta0S4siA


Using a Knife - Cutting Techniques & Safety - PART 1

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1ApQpthjsxE


Bushcraft and Survival, how to use a knife - basic wood carving knife grips, Wilderlore

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PPUbCUip6iQ

---

http://www.amazon.com/Bushcraft-Outdoor-Skills-Wilderness-Survival/dp/1551051222

Kochanski has an entire chapter dealing with knife-craft

That's a great book. I've had it for years too. Has a lot of great LandNav and climate survival info.

For anyone interested (Only $8):

• http://www.amazon.com/SAS-Survival-Guide-Collins-Gem/dp/0061992860/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1344958034&sr=8-2&keywords=sas+survival+handbook

I prefer a Morakniv knife. They're usually about $12 to $25, go on sale often, and come with an excellent hard plastic sheath. They're light, durable, and simple. A friend of mine took one up the entire Appalachian Trail as his main trail knife in 2015; he loved it, never had a problem with it.

I see some holes in your loadout and hope that’s not your complete loadout. If you haven’t already, I’d seek out some quality advice on what you’ll probably need and how to use the items. This book may not be perfect for what you’re doing but it has tons of useful info. Beware of the advice you take on here. Plus, watch plenty of YouTube videos as there are so many out there. The author of the book linked below has 100’s that span across a wide variety of subjects. Start there. Educate and empower yourself as much as you can. It’s not difficult to do. Have fun too!

Bushcraft 101: A Field Guide to the Art of Wilderness Survival https://www.amazon.com/dp/1440579776/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_82GXCbRX08B2Z

Howdy, I’m originally from near Wausau!

Honestly, the DNR has good (and free) materials they’ll send you for tracks, though there aren’t to many tracks to figure out.

As for a book, I don’t know if you’re gonna find an all-in-one book that is comprehensive enough to be safe, but if you’re looking for a guide to edible plants look no further!

It doesn’t just cover your local area, unfortunately, but it gives you a lot of information at your finger tips. I wouldn’t expect you to grab the book and be able to immediately determine what something is, but it’s probably the best you’ll find in that department. Remember, if you do take a guide out, practice practice practice and eventually you’ll be able to go “Oh look! Allium! Ah, blue lettuce! Etc.” it’s not an overnight thing. Also, always err to the side of caution. If you aren’t 100%, be very very very careful.

http://ecosknives.com/zen3/ These are hand made. Mine have come sharp. In fact I just got 2 new ones for my birthday.

http://www.amazon.com/Morakniv-Companion-Outdoor-Stainless-4-1-Inch/dp/B00BTJKB00/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1412718972&sr=8-1&keywords=mora These are great for the money.

http://www.anzaknives.com/ These are made from files

Do you have a picture of what you like?

try r/knives

$19.99 with shipping on Woot for 1,000 liters of filtering capacity or $19.06 with shipping on Amazon, which is strange because Woot is owned by Amazon.

Or you can get a Sawyer Mini for $19.97 with shipping for 100,000 gallons (378,541 liters) of filtering capacity, while filtering at 0.1 microns instead of 0.2 microns for the Lifestraw. It comes with a straw so you can use it the same way as the Lifestraw, plus has the greater flexibility of being able to be used with a hydration bladder or set up as a gravity filter systems, and also comes with a small water pouch.

Here are some links for the product in the above comment for different countries:

Amazon Smile Link: http://smile.amazon.com/Medical-Herbalism-Principles-Practices-Medicine/dp/0892817496/ref=sr_1_1


|Country|Link|
|:-----------|:------------|
|UK|amazon.co.uk|
|Spain|amazon.es|
|France|amazon.fr|
|Germany|amazon.de|
|Japan|amazon.co.jp|
|Canada|amazon.ca|
|Italy|amazon.it|
|China|amazon.cn|




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Hard to beat a Mora for the price though, right?

Could you provide your favorites at different prices? I don't know much about what real world experienced people would use.

I use a Fallkniven but I'm a total keyboard commando and I just like knives so I don't know much. I hear esee5 is nice too.

The Bacho Laplander seems to be popular with outdoor enthusiasts. I don't own one myself so I can't speak to it's quality. I do think it would be better off with a high-vis paint job but otherwise it seems pretty solid.

The saw I use is from the gardening section at my local hardware store. They usually have these $5 'gardening kit' sales that include a foam pad, pruning shears and a folding saw. Coincidentally, the exact same folding saw that's on 'sale' for $14 two isles over.

I have a couple of the peterson field guides which are awesome. This one and this one are great. I also have one of the samuel thayer books. He's freakin hilarious! Ancestral plants is also pretty interesting but it goes into more detail about less plants compared to the other books. These books are specific to my region(mid-atlantic/new england) but I know there are peterson guides for and other areas.

SAS Survival Handbook is a great start. So much great knowledge in one book.


https://www.amazon.com/dp/0062378074/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_awdb_t1_H70NDbQ9PAJMF

• Sawyer Mini Water Filter
  
  
• Ferrocerium Rod
  
  
• Morakniv Companion
  
  
• Cotton Bandanna
  
  
• Reusable Mylar Blanket
  
  
• SAK Classic
  
  
• AMK Trauma Pack
  
  
• Signal Mirror
  
  
• Compass
  
  These are just suggestions, I'm sure there are cheaper or better quality alternatives to these, but it's a good start.
  
  Also, you're a cool brother.

You might want to try something like this emergency bivvy. I have one but I've never used it in my hammock. It's amazing how warm it actually keeps you... I was sweating at about 10 F when I used it.

This is a pretty good one for edible wild plants in North America. This is a good one for general survival that includes trapping and fishing, and this is also a good one for general survival, but knowing Dave, I'm sure there's very detailed instructions for traps. If you want some video of traps and trap making, or just general survival, go to his youtube page. The Ray Mears book has instructions for processing animals, and I'm sure Daves book will too.

The cheapest one you can find on Amazon. Actually, just buy two.

Throw one in your trunk and forget about it until you need a knife one day.
Throw the other in your toolbox and use it for random jobs.

After a few months of using it you'll realize it's a great little thing and get another to take camping.

Edit:
I like this one because it's ~$8.50 and your fingers won't slip onto the blade under any circumstances. It's a little on the small side if you have big hands though.

For camping I like this one.

Might I suggest a Laplander instead? It's honestly faster and easier than a machete for chopping at small trees. And it makes cutting up sticks for firewood extremely easy.

Space blanket, thats a good idea! They don't take up any space. Or you can get an emergency bivy, like this http://www.amazon.com/Adventure-Medical-Kits-Heatsheets-Emergency/dp/B000WXX0JS They are a bit bigger and work like a sleeping bag make out of a sleeping blanket.

Also headlamp is a really good idea too. Or a small led pocket light.

Better stock up on band-aids for your knuckles! ;)
In all seriousness, this is an amazing survival book

Especially when you can get an actually good knife for not that much more.

A Mora Companion is 14 bucks, and pretty solid.

If you want a cheap folder that doesn't suck, there's the 3.95 Tan Flipper from Wal-mart.

Bushcraft by Mors Kochanski: http://www.amazon.co.uk/Bushcraft-Outdoor-Skills-Wilderness-Survival/dp/1551051222

Not only is it great read, if you take a good knife with you, you'll never be bored

like u/kimste2 said for the money you really can't go wrong with a Mora. If you insist on a full tang I also have a couple of the Survivor HK-106 knives and have been very impressed considering the price, they also come with a fire starter.

Mora

Mora - Light My Fire

Survivor HK-106

http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00A2GLZS8

Demo video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HiYmk1sBqCo

I don't own one yet, but it is by far the best one I've found from researching.

Start by reading the SAS Survival Handbook or Bushcraft 101 by Dave Canterbury. They talk about useful techniques and the gear you should have.

Take either one out into the backyard or whatever and practice. Once you become more comfortable in self reliance take a weekend out in the bush and practice some more.

There's also a lot of educational youtube videos out there. wildernessoutfitters has a lot of content if video is more your thing.

I plan on bringing this saw http://www.amazon.ca/gp/aw/d/B0001IX7OW/ref=mp_s_a_1_3?qid=1425742544&sr=8-3&keywords=folding+saw&dpPl=1&dpID=31RlPumzdlL&ref=plSrch&pi=SX200_QL40 and although that's a neat way of bringing a saw I don't really see why I wouldn't just strap the aluminum handle for the bow saw on my bag if I were going to bring one. The aluminum handle is light strong and takes much less effort to set the saw up. But in a pinch that would be a good backup if the handle somehow broke

A more compact and very effective saw is the Bahco Laplander, it all depends on what you plan on doing with it :)

HIJACK
im thinking of buying this knife ... is the brand good and is it a good knife?
https://www.amazon.com/Schrade-SCHF30-Point-Fixed-Blade/dp/B00TUY03QS/ref=pd_sim_469_5?ie=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B00TUY03QS&pd_rd_r=K1FJ08NBKY6FTREF6C94&pd_rd_w=Fy2y4&pd_rd_wg=R1TlV&psc=1&refRID=K1FJ08NBKY6FTREF6C94

Here's the knife plus a couple of bucks, buy a few gallons of water and hope for good weather.

I forgot to add this book. It's tiny enough to pack easily and got me out of the sticks a few times. It also makes for a fun lecture to pass some time.

David Hoffman's book is a really great one:
http://www.amazon.com/Medical-Herbalism-Principles-Practices-Medicine/dp/0892817496/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1397309320&sr=8-1&keywords=david+hoffman

These books are amazing and I've stepped up my camping due to them! I bought the whole set there's just so much information.

https://www.amazon.com/Bushcraft-101-Field-Wilderness-Survival/dp/1440579776

SAS Survival Guide

https://smile.amazon.com/SAS-Survival-Guide-Collins-Gem/dp/0061992860/

ACEP First Aid Manual

https://smile.amazon.com/ACEP-First-Aid-Manual-5th/dp/1465419500/

Prepper's Long-Term Survival Guide, because super cheap digitally

https://smile.amazon.com/Preppers-Long-Term-Survival-Guide-Grid-ebook/dp/B00I2G2X9K/

usually full-tang for strength (although partial-tang moras are nice), at least 1095 steel (not cheap chinese stainless, although mora and fallkniven use good quality stainless)

grind can be either scandi or flat or saber, with scandi being strongest and thickest blade, easiest to sharpen but harder to cut through something or do fine work due to the blade thickness, and flat grind harder to sharpen but easier to cut through things but slightly weaker blade, with saber being more rare and basically inbetween the two

no bullshit serrations because you won't be able to sharpen that or do fine work with it

my perfect bushcraft knife would be full-tang, spear point, saber grind, about 4-5 inches, micarta handle (so it stays grippy when wet), so something like a L.T. Wright GNS Saber or Fiddleback Forge KE Bushie or GSO 4.1 or ESEE PR-4.

but those each cost like $200-$300 and I have an aversion to spending that much on one thing when I can just buy an Old Hickory Butcher Knife, a Morakniv Companion and an Opinel No.7 all for literally $40 combined and have a bunch of different knives suited for different situations (butcher knife for hacking/batoning, mora for general use, opinel for fine work)

edit: woah this dude modded an old hickory
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8ziV3R9Jcro

another dude who mods old hickories
https://longmireknives.wordpress.com/my-work/

Maybe there's a reason, but why carry a heavy "axe" (hatchet?) when you can carry a knife like a BK-7 and a folding saw and have most if not all of the functionality of a hatchet with the two?

SAS Survival Guide: http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/0061992860/

I've admittedly only used the iPod App, but I'd recommend it on that alone and I'm led to believe the book is just as good if not better.

I know I'm late to the game, but here's my contribution.

I do and have used a Mora, actually the same exact knife, essentially as my only fixed blade for about five years (with a backup when I go out alone); the first year as a student at a survival school and the next four as an instructor. My school sells and recommends Moras as well, so I've seen a lot of them and a lot of other knives and I've seen a lot of abuse. I've never seen a Mora break, but I've seen other knives break (Buck, specifically). Recently I've begun carrying another knife that someone made for me as well with my Mora as my backup. Here are my thoughts on your questions:

• The model I carry is the Bushcraft Triflex. It's carbon steel with a hardened spine. I've never carried a stainless steel knife, but we sell those too and I've never seen any rust, though we're in a pretty dry environment. I agree with XELBRUJOX's comments on stainless. Mora claims their stainless knives stay sharp longer, and I agree, but they also take more effort to sharpen.
  
• Any oil will work. When I have my choice I use mineral oil.
  
• Do an image search for "mora tang" and you'll get plenty of results, and add the specific model if you want to see that
  
• Other than me, Mors Kochanski and Cody Lundeen both carry or have carried Moras as their main knife. In Mors' book Bush Craft, he talks about his test for a good knife is that if you can burry it to the hilt in to a tree and stand on it, then it's a good knife. He does that with his Moras with no problem. Here's a video of his technique for cutting down a small tree with a Mora. Incidentally, I've batonned and billetted my Mora regularly for five years with no problem. I don't pry with it, but I'm never afraid to apply force in the same direction as the cutting edge.
  
• I've never used my spine with a ferro rod, but I do regularly throw sparks from chert and other hard rock (stainless won't work for that). I think flattening it would work for the ferro rod.
  
• I haven't used the #1, but Mors actually cuts the finger guards off of his knives that had one, and I think he preferred the #1. If you've never seen his book check it out, it's a great resource.
  
  Here are my other thoughts:
  
  
• The worst thing about Moras are the sheaths. They're cheap and won't last, so do yourself a favor and make one that works or get one made. I have seen people lose their knives because of shitty sheaths.
  
• My favorite thing about Moras is the grind. A Scandinavian grind is the most versatile bevel for what I find myself doing, like carving fire sets, splitting wood, cutting food, butchering large game (sheep, deer, elk), skinning, carving traps, etc. My second favorite thing is the steel. That said, there's nothing magical about a Mora, it's just that the majority of readily available knives have a steeper compound/double bevel that's harder to sharpen with a stone (for beginners) and doesn't work as well for fine carving, like for fire spindles. Mora knives do everything I need them to do in my environment. I don't carry a saw or axe, and don't feel like I need to, but you're requirements might be different.
  
  edit - formatting
  

I have one of THESE guys. It stays sharp and works wonders for the weight. Takes a bit longer to get through hardwood because of the length, but it's a nice workout so all's good in my book.

TL;DR: I have a giant right bicep because of this saw.

Get a [Mora] (http://www.amazon.com/Morakniv-Companion-Stainless-Military-4-1-Inch/dp/B004ZAIXSC/ref=sr_1_1?s=sporting-goods&ie=UTF8&qid=1420689734&sr=1-1&keywords=mora+knife). They can be made very sharp and they are very durable. I have literally beat the crap out of mine and it holds up fine, even though it is not a "full tang" knife. It you use it sensibly and take care of it, it will last you forever. This is a great fixed blade to start out with and learn to use.

Stay away from the "hollow handle" knives, as they are considerably weaker than others (these are obviously not full tang) along with anything that has "survival" or "Rambo" in its name.

Serrated blades are great for cutting through cordage, but for most uses in camping, are not needed.

I am not a fan of any of the paracord wrapped knives as these tend to collect all kinds of dirt and grime. If you field dress a deer with one, the cord will get soaked in blood and goo. The only way to clean it is to take the wrap off, clean it and replace the wrap. Just carry a hank of 20 feet of paracord or make a paracord bracelet.

Not full tang but what I recommend: here

Full tang recommendation: here

This Mora knife? Can't argue with a $15 knife, looks fairly nice.

Try these to start:
SAS Survival Handbook, Third Edition: The Ultimate Guide to Surviving Anywhere https://www.amazon.com/dp/0062378074/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_taa_lVYxDbJKCTABD

The Bushcraft Boxed Set: Bushcraft 101; Advanced Bushcraft; The Bushcraft Field Guide to Trapping, Gathering, & Cooking in the Wild; Bushcraft First Aid https://www.amazon.com/dp/1507206690/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_taa_OWYxDbAH7R41H

https://www.amazon.com/Bushcraft-101-Field-Wilderness-Survival/dp/1440579776/ref=mp_s_a_1_2?keywords=bushcraft&qid=1565822502&s=gateway&sr=8-2

I got this book bushcraft as a gift and took it out and practiced with it. Learned a lot! It is to date my first and only book so far although I do use some local apps for plant Identification

one book that is also valuable is the Edible Wild Plants

I really liked:

https://www.amazon.com/SAS-Survival-Handbook-Third-Surviving/dp/0062378074

Honestly, just get this Mora for a fraction of the price. It's an incredible knife.

The SAS survival handbook has a good food section. Essential book if you don't already have it.

http://www.amazon.com/SAS-Survival-Guide-Collins-Gem/dp/0061992860

Grabber Outdoor Space 127008 All Weather Blanket, Orange,5 X 7 Feet is a nice one.

I like this.

I like this water filter for light weight packs.

This Schrade might be worth looking at.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0033H7VI6/ref=cm_sw_r_udp_awd_uvr3tb03C01V8NE7

Here is the Amazon link with info

>6.4" blade, 5.6" handle
>1095 High Carbon Steel
>Kraton handle
>15.9 ounces


$35. Took about 5 seconds to copy and paste into Amazon.

Starter knife look at the Buck Nighthawk(you dont need the tops version.) Amazing knife well priced and near indestructible. The choice of steel also makes it fairly easy to sharpen.

The one thing Sukram 85 is missing is a water filter. All you need though is a cheap basic one like the life straw or the sawyer mini.
.

I saw go with the sawyer. The price is similar but it will last way longer and can be used in line with a water bladder.

Don't use a plastic water bottle. Try and find one with made with steel(not aluminum) then you can boil water in it too in case you don't have your filter on you or the filter broke.

Surprised it hasn't been mentioned. I recommend the Condor Bushlore
https://www.amazon.com/Condor-CTK232-4-3HC-Walnut-Bushlore-Knife/dp/B002CC6BPM

If you don't already have one, try an emergency bivy like this. Much better than the usual emergency blanket.

Just buy a pruning saw. It'll cut through anything that you don't need a chainsaw for. They look like big pocket knives. Harbor Freight has cheap ass ones guess you are a kiwi... as do most home improvement stores but the Bacho laplander is the king of them https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0001IX7OW/

What do people think of the survival tin as suggested by Lofty? https://www.amazon.com/SAS-Survival-Guide-Collins-Gem/dp/0061992860

It should be noted that the third edition of the SAS Survival Handbook was just released and is here http://smile.amazon.com/SAS-Survival-Handbook-Third-Edition/dp/0062378074/ref=zg_bsnr_16472_1

SAS Survival Handbook by John 'Lofty' Wiseman

My Bible.

I'm confused... I paid about $20 USD for my Laplander. Where are you that it costs $50?

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0001IX7OW?psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o03_s02

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B000WXX0JS/ref=mp_s_a_1_4_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1487654833&sr=8-4&keywords=survival+bivy

Thirstyone has the cons of that blade covered, I think. So heres some other options.

You could go with a BK2 or a BK7 over this. The BK9 is an option but it's on the large side.

Straying away from Ka-bar You could go with an ESEE Izula.

Condor Bushlore

This will meet and exceed your needs.

Mora. The end.

Survival knives are meant to be used, not babied.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B004TNWD40?pc_redir=1414528943&robot_redir=1

Or you can get a Mora knife for about a tenth the cost and call it a day...

http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B004ZAIXSC/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?qid=1422562570&sr=8-1&dpPl=1&dpID=310gVtn6MqL&ref=plSrch&pi=AC_SX200_QL40

For $1 more, you can get any of the colors too.
https://www.amazon.com/Morakniv-Companion-Outdoor-Stainless-4-1-Inch/dp/B00BTJKB00/ref=pd_bxgy_468_2?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B00BTJKB00&pd_rd_r=Y2R9NJ56SH9NC3RHJZQ0&pd_rd_w=YZbVm&pd_rd_wg=RWaXh&psc=1&refRID=Y2R9NJ56SH9NC3RHJZQ0

Must have items!!

http://www.amazon.com/Leatherman-830039-Multitool-Leather-Combination/dp/B0002H49BC

http://www.amazon.com/Sawyer-Products-SP128-Filtration-System/dp/B00FA2RLX2/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1419737405&sr=8-1&keywords=sawyer+water+filter

http://www.amazon.com/Celox-Clotting-Granule-Applicator-Plunger/dp/B004NG8V1W/ref=pd_sim_indust_1?ie=UTF8&refRID=0XX9NA73S1HE0KDKWJWB

http://www.amazon.com/dp/B003DPVERM/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pd_nS_ttl?_encoding=UTF8&colid=Z0ES6VI75HIC&coliid=I3CQC2ZNAU1VIO&psc=1

Becker Bk7 You will never look back and regret the sub $75 pricetag.