http://www.outdoorsurvivalinfo.com Surviving and Thriving in the Outdoors Sun, 06 Sep 2009 19:22:45 +0000 http://backend.userland.com/rss092 en Soap is something that should be in every personal emergency kit, but it's one item that is often overlooked. Why is soap so important? Because it cleans stuff. Seriously, it does. Keeping things clean might be a lower priority for you during an emergency, but it's something you really need to ... http://www.outdoorsurvivalinfo.com/2009/09/06/the-importance-of-soap/ Water is a vital necessity. Without it, we won't last beyond a few short days. Unfortunately, water is heavy, so putting a bunch in your bug out bag can hurt as much as it helps. If your bag is too heavy, you'll move slowly, tire more easily, and use up ... http://www.outdoorsurvivalinfo.com/2009/08/31/water-is-heavy-but-you-still-need-to-carry-some/ Backpacking Safety Tips By Natasha Fatale The most important thing to think about when going on a backpacking adventure is to be prepared for anything. As the saying goes, if it can happen it will happen. These tips will help you avoid any misadventures and enjoy your backpacking trip to the fullest. Keep ... http://www.outdoorsurvivalinfo.com/2009/08/12/backpacking-safety-tips/ Hiking Tip - How to Find Water in the Wilderness By Pauline Go Hiking is an adventurous outdoor activity which involves walking and trekking day and night. Getting lost or stranded in the wilderness is something that could happen to just about anyone. When you are trapped in the wilderness the single ... http://www.outdoorsurvivalinfo.com/2009/08/09/hiking-tip-how-to-find-water-in-the-wilderness/ Living in the wilderness for any length of time -- even just a few days -- takes some preparation. There's more to it than just heading out in the wild and eating berries. You'll need to tend to things like shelter, water, and fire. I found this article about living ... http://www.outdoorsurvivalinfo.com/2009/08/04/how-to-live-in-the-wilderness/ It's important to keep rations in your house, and it's pretty easy to do, too. There's a lot of talk going around about creating a bug out bag and stocking it with MREs or similar foods. I know, because I do a lot of that talking. Today, however, I want ... http://www.outdoorsurvivalinfo.com/2009/07/15/keep-rations-stored-in-your-home/ I'm not sure if it's the price of gas over the last couple of years, or just the economy in general, but MREs are more expensive than they used to be. While unfortunate, things like this are just going to happen. It seems like everything is more expensive than it ... http://www.outdoorsurvivalinfo.com/2009/06/24/mres-are-more-expensive-nowbut-still-affordable/ Rabbits are plentiful in many regions, so learning how to clean and prepare them could help you out in a survival situation. The article below comes complete with images, instructions, and a how-to video. In my opinion, the video is more informative than the article, but you can judge for ... http://www.outdoorsurvivalinfo.com/2009/03/24/learn-to-clean-and-prepare-wild-rabbit/ It's been a while since I posted anything, hasn't it. Listen for the details. Download it here: OSI Special Announcement http://www.outdoorsurvivalinfo.com/2009/03/21/osi-special-announcement/ In this episode, I talk about bug out bags. This information is introductory, but I think you should still listen if you already have a bug out bag. Learn stuff like: The Bag Best Practices Basic Content Guidelines If you want more detailed information, here is the site I mention in the episode: The Bug ... http://www.outdoorsurvivalinfo.com/2009/02/12/osi-4-the-bug-out-bag/ You might have the warmest jacket around, but if you don't layer your clothes, it may not be enough. Stacking your clothes in layers around your body is the best way to retain body heat when you are out in the elements. As body heat escapes, your layers act as barriers ... http://www.outdoorsurvivalinfo.com/2009/01/13/the-secret-to-staying-warm-is-layers/ What is the most important survival tool? What does everyone need to have in their survival pack? In this episode of the OSI Podcast, I answer those questions and discuss the hows and the whys. Download the episode here: OSI Podcast #3. Don't forget to subscribe to the newsletter so you can ... http://www.outdoorsurvivalinfo.com/2009/01/05/osi-3-the-most-important-survival-tool/ Winter Backpacking Survival Tips By Steven Gillman Why do you need survival tips for winter backpacking? Because even with the most careful planning there is always a greater risk with winter camping. Of course, getting lost or having an accident is always a possibility, but cold weather makes either of these a ... http://www.outdoorsurvivalinfo.com/2008/12/16/winter-backpacking-survival-tips/ If you are in the market for a new multi-tool, check out the Gerber 600. I've got one and it's pretty good. Here's a little video review of it -- more of a run-down of it's details, really. Interested? You can pick one up at BDR Gear: Gerber Multi-Plier 600 http://www.outdoorsurvivalinfo.com/2008/12/11/video-review-of-gerber-multi-plier-600/ It's important to think of "Sustainable Living" as a valuable survival skill. Think of it more like a self-sustaining lifestyle. These skills can help you both survive a crisis and improve your day to day life. In this episode, I talk about why sustainable living skills are important, and then talk ... http://www.outdoorsurvivalinfo.com/2008/12/08/osi-podcast-2-sustainable-living/ Don't worry, the next episode of the OSI Podcast is going online in a day or two. It's been a pretty busy week. Keep in mind that I haven't decided on a production schedule yet, so it's not actually late. The ducks are coming! According to the recent satellite tracking, the ... http://www.outdoorsurvivalinfo.com/2008/12/04/new-podcast-episode-is-coming-soon/ In this episode of the OSI Podcast, I talk about the importance of the "survival mindset." I also go on to give you tips for maintaining the proper mindset during a crisis. This is practical information that should benefit everyone. Download the episode here: OSI Episode 1 http://www.outdoorsurvivalinfo.com/2008/11/23/osi-1-the-survival-mindset/ I went duck hunting this morning -- opening day here in Arkansas. Apparently, not enough ducks have made it down from the North yet...because I only saw one flock anywhere near shooting range. Well, they were out of shooting range by just a bit, and they flat out refused to ... http://www.outdoorsurvivalinfo.com/2008/11/22/missing-ducks-icy-water-and-some-new-waders/ Since it's deer season, I was skimming over the venison section of my copy of Basic Butchering of Livestock & Game, by By John Mettler, Jr., DVM. If you are interested in sustainable living, hunting, or ranch life, you need to read this book. It covers killing, skinning, quartering, and butchering ... http://www.outdoorsurvivalinfo.com/2008/11/16/basic-butchering-of-livestock-and-game/ Don't get enough outdoor and survival content from the blog alone? Your wait and your searching will soon be at an end! OK, enough with the melodrama. I'm going to be putting together an outdoor and survival themed podcast. If you are a newsletter subscriber, you already know this. If not...now ... http://www.outdoorsurvivalinfo.com/2008/11/12/survival-podcast-coming-soon/ If you want to learn how to create a bug out bag that meets your needs, I've got a resource for you. It's The Bug Out Bag Book, and it's packed full of bug out bag how-to. This book is all about building a bug out bag, from the bag all ... http://www.outdoorsurvivalinfo.com/2008/11/06/the-bug-out-bag-book-learn-how-to-create-a-bug-out-bag-that-meets-your-needs/ I went to the range yesterday and got my rifle basically where it needs to be. I've got a 100 yard indoor rifle range here, which is nice. I had bore sighted the rifle using a laser bore sighter, but I still had to work a bit to get the ... http://www.outdoorsurvivalinfo.com/2008/11/06/sighted-my-rifle-in-nice-and-neat-marlin-336-30-30/ If you install a scope on your Marlin 336 rifle, you will probably need to install the included hammer spur. The Marlin 336 comes with a hammer spur, and it's really easy to install. If your Marlin rifle didn't come with one, or if you lost your spur, just contact ... http://www.outdoorsurvivalinfo.com/2008/10/26/how-to-install-a-hammer-spur-on-your-marlin-336-30-30/ Here is a how-to great article about recycling an old circular saw blade into a nice guthook knife. Use it for hunting, toss it your bug out bag... Read the article here: How to Make a Guthook Knife from an Old Saw Blade http://www.outdoorsurvivalinfo.com/2008/10/16/how-to-make-a-guthook-knife-from-an-old-saw-blade/ I've got my scope mounted on my weaver base, and I'm ready to bore sight. I think I'll pick up a laser bore sighter and use that to get the scope set up initially. Then I'll work on zeroing it. I'm really looking forward to some pin-point accuracy with such a ... http://www.outdoorsurvivalinfo.com/2008/10/13/marlin-336-30-30-scope-project-final-steps/ Desert Survival - Water and Terrain Tactics By Mac Ward You must prepare and understand the environment your facing in order to survive an arid or desert climate. You'll need to determine your equipment needs, the tactics you'll be using, and how the environment will effect your equipment and tactics. Your survival ... http://www.outdoorsurvivalinfo.com/2008/09/18/desert-survival-water-and-terrain-tactics/ Outdoor Survival Tips - Ten Uncommon Ones By Steven Gillman The outdoor survival tips you'll find here are not the usual fare. They come from the unusual techniques that myself and others have experimented with. Keep them in mind in case the day comes when you are lost in the wilderness. Outdoor Survival ... http://www.outdoorsurvivalinfo.com/2008/08/30/outdoor-survival-tips-ten-uncommon-ones/ Here's a little slide show video I put together of my scope base project: Rifle: Marlin 336 Hardware: Weaver two-piece scope base for Marlin 336 Tools: 2 flat head screwdrivers - one tiny, one regular http://www.outdoorsurvivalinfo.com/2008/08/20/marlin-336-scope-base-mount-video/ I've decided to put a scope on my beloved Marlin 336 .30-30 lever action rifle. It's such a great rifle, but I want to improve my chances of filling the freezer with venison this year. Here's how I did it. First off, Marlin 336 comes drilled and tapped for a scope. ... http://www.outdoorsurvivalinfo.com/2008/08/13/marlin-336-scope-project-part-1/ Maxpedition gear is now available at BDR Gear. Here's the page with all the current products: Maxpedition Gear. Based on all of the reports and reviews I've seen so far, the Maxpedition line is top notch. I'm talking gear suited for both every day use and while working in hostile ... http://www.outdoorsurvivalinfo.com/2008/08/10/maxpedition-gear/ If you haven't already, head over to the Survival Video page and check it out. Learn how to make shelters and see a bunch of other outdoor and survival oriented videos. The video content is updated regularly, so check it out and see what's there! http://www.outdoorsurvivalinfo.com/2008/08/05/check-out-the-survival-video-page/ Notice the last Outdoor Survival Info newsletter? I've changed the subject line a little bit so that you can more quickly see what's in the issue. "Outdoor Survival Info" takes up a lot of space. So I've changed the format. From now on, the subject line will read "[OSI] - main ... http://www.outdoorsurvivalinfo.com/2008/08/05/new-look-for-newsletter-subject-lines/ Survival Kits. Bug out bags. Disaster prep kits. They are all the same basic thing: Gear you may need in an emergency. A large disaster will likely require all of the gear in your kit, but other times you just may need one or two things. Being prepared is the ... http://www.outdoorsurvivalinfo.com/2008/07/27/survival-kits-explained/ Tips For Buying a Rifle ScopeBy Brady Ritsema When you are considering buying a rifle scope, you'll soon come up against more choices than you know what to do with! If you last bought a scope several years ago, or you have never owned one at all, the variety of ... http://www.outdoorsurvivalinfo.com/2008/07/20/tips-for-buying-a-rifle-scope/ Remember when I said I was growing tomatoes as a part of my own education regarding sustainable living? Well, they're not as hard to grow as some people make them out to be, and they are quite tasty, too. So far, I've had three tomatoes come off of my little container ... http://www.outdoorsurvivalinfo.com/2008/07/15/my-tomatoes-are-coming-along-nicely/ Survival Shelters - What Works Best?By Steven Gillman All the various types of survival shelters serve one basic purpose, and it isn't to have an attractive home for your night in the woods. Of course there might be some psychological value to certain styles. There may occasionally be a need for ... http://www.outdoorsurvivalinfo.com/2008/07/07/survival-shelters-what-works-best/ What to Look For When Purchasing a Rifle ScopeBy Joshua McNiel Here, you will be introduced to what to look for when purchasing a rifle scope. As a result of my experience in law enforcement in the past, I can honestly say that this device is essential if you are working ... http://www.outdoorsurvivalinfo.com/2008/06/30/what-to-look-for-when-purchasing-a-rifle-scope/ This summer is turning out to be a bit on the warm side. I shouldn't be surprised. Summer is supposed to be hot after all. Want to beat the heat? There's one simple solution: Hydrate. That's right. Drink plenty of water and you'll feel better about being in the heat. Just ... http://www.outdoorsurvivalinfo.com/2008/06/26/stay-alive-in-the-heat/ How to Prepare For Outdoor Survival - Tactics For Hiking and Camping By Mo Plante The outdoors is a beautiful place in which nature is at its best. While the places you may spend your time in at the wilderness seem very safe, there are certain precautions that every person, even ... http://www.outdoorsurvivalinfo.com/2008/06/18/how-to-prepare-for-outdoor-survival-tactics-for-hiking-and-camping/ I'm writing a book all about the Bug out Bag. It's a handy thing, yet many people know little or nothing about them, how to construct them, or why it's a good idea to have one in your home. The book will be an eBook, so it will be available for ... http://www.outdoorsurvivalinfo.com/2008/06/09/bug-out-bag-book-coming-soon/ Fishing is such a great survival skill to have. After all, if you can't eat, it's hard to survive. Beyond the possibility of being stuck in a survival situation, you must keep in mind that fishing is just plain fun. Largemouth bass are quite popular, and mastering the bass takes years ... http://www.outdoorsurvivalinfo.com/2008/06/08/learn-how-to-catch-largemouth-bass/ Dangerous Australian Wildlife - How To Avoid Getting In TroubleBy Rita Amend Australia is well known for its unique wildlife. Everyone loves koalas and kangaroos. Unfortunately, there are other species which can really hurt, or even kill you. I don't want to scare you, far from it! Know what to find ... http://www.outdoorsurvivalinfo.com/2008/06/06/dangerous-australian-wildlife-how-to-avoid-getting-in-trouble/ Here are two pictures of my growing tomatoes. These pictures are a few days old (maybe 4 or 5), and the tomatoes have grown a lot since then. And here is a picture with my hand up to it so you can get some size perspective. Those in the picture have grown ... http://www.outdoorsurvivalinfo.com/2008/05/27/tomato-pics/ The Bit of Archery History By Linda Thompson The history of archery is an interesting one, by following the evolution of archery we also follow the history of mankind which is so closely linked. Throughout the world we have found evidence of ancient archery, even in places where in the past it was ... http://www.outdoorsurvivalinfo.com/2008/05/27/the-bit-of-archery-history/ Well, my tomatoes are starting to grow!! I've got three little tomatoes sprouting from my plants (2 plants). I'm pretty excited about them. You see, I love tomatoes, and it seems I've got a bit of a green thumb, too. Yes, it is probably too early to make such a ... http://www.outdoorsurvivalinfo.com/2008/05/20/my-tomatoes-are-growing/ Not much of a gardener? Don't worry, I'm not either. But that's not going to stop me! I have -- just this afternoon -- planted two tomato plants. We love tomatoes at this house, so that's what I planted. I just took two tomato plants that I bought from Lowes ... http://www.outdoorsurvivalinfo.com/2008/05/12/sustainable-living-grow-your-own-food/ Here's a good article about getting started in fishing. Easy Steps to Taking Up AnglingBy Bill Bailey If you have ever thought about taking up Angling but don't know where to start, then you are not alone. There are many 'would be' Anglers out there who never had the benefit or the opportunity ... http://www.outdoorsurvivalinfo.com/2008/05/09/fishing-skills-are-valuable-for-survival/ The pair of boots I have now are uncomfortable, and without sufficient insulation to deal with cold weather. So I think I'll get some new boots this year. But I might actually have to get two pairs. You see, it's going to be all warm, sometimes wet, and usually snakey. ... http://www.outdoorsurvivalinfo.com/2008/05/01/i-need-some-new-boots/ Survival Preparedness - Survival Skills and Emergency Kits By Chuck McIntyre Most of us would agree that at any moment we could find ourselves in a disaster or other emergency situation. Even if this fact is only lurking in the back of the mind just below consciousness, the statement is no less ... http://www.outdoorsurvivalinfo.com/2008/04/23/survival-preparedness-survival-skills-and-emergency-kits/ By Brian Carter Outdoor survival skills can mean the difference between escape/rescue and tragedy. Fortunately, most survival skills are simple and easy to learn. Here are the top ten things to do in a survival situation, in order: 1. Don’t panic. Breathe. Relax. 2. Give yourself first aid if needed. 3. Inventory your survival ... http://www.outdoorsurvivalinfo.com/2008/04/23/outdoor-survival-skills-top-10-skills-to-dos-and-must-have-products/ Well, spring is upon us in full swing it seems. The cold weather has finally abated, and it seems the tornadoes aren't coming back right now. So, it's time to fish! I might go fishing this afternoon at a catfish-filled stream a few miles away. But I've got to check on ... http://www.outdoorsurvivalinfo.com/2008/04/19/getting-ready-to-start-fishing/ It's been a while since I've written anything here. I've been really busy working on projects -- working too much. I'm looking at some new themes for this site, too. So if you see it change a bit here and there, drastically or just barely, don't be alarmed. Just keep reading ... http://www.outdoorsurvivalinfo.com/2008/04/18/upcoming-changes/ I took my Marlin 336W .30-30 out to the range this past weekend. I love shooting that rifle. This was the first time I fired some of my LeveRevolution ammo by Hornady. It's good stuff. Feels smoother than the Power Shok rounds I had from Wal-Mart. Though it still kicked ... http://www.outdoorsurvivalinfo.com/2008/03/25/did-i-mention-i-love-my-30-30/ By Caleb Rogers When disaster strikes, where will you be and how will you get to your family? Will you have supplies with you if you're out and around town? The purpose of this article is to discuss what is known as the "get home bag," and differentiate it from a ... http://www.outdoorsurvivalinfo.com/2008/02/18/a-look-at-the-get-home-bag/ I haven't written anything here in a while, and there's a pretty good reason for that. I've been busy working on a complete rewrite of my career education directory. I've been coding and designing non-stop for a few weeks now and it's about to drive me insane. So I'm taking a ... http://www.outdoorsurvivalinfo.com/2008/02/06/its-been-a-while/ Part of having a survival plan is figuring out how you are going to sustain yourself once the rations run out. If there is some disaster that has the potential to cut you off from civilization, or if it collapses entirely, then you need a plan. Check out this article on ... http://www.outdoorsurvivalinfo.com/2008/01/17/growing-your-own-food/ If you have been wondering if the site looks different than it did before, that's because it IS different. The short version is that I needed to do some stuff to the theme, but I didn't have the time at the moment. So I opted for a slightly modified version ... http://www.outdoorsurvivalinfo.com/2008/01/10/so-you-noticed-the-site-looks-different/ Over the next few years, I'll be building a house. It won't take me years to build (I hope), but I won't have the necessary funds to start the build for at least another year. I plan on building a house that is as self-sustaining as possible. Water from a well ... http://www.outdoorsurvivalinfo.com/2007/12/28/house-plans/ I love my .30-30. I got it for my birthday, early for use with the modern gun deer season. It's a Marlin 336W, unscoped and slinged. The rifle is light, comfortable, and very easy to handle in the woods. This might be one of the best basic utility rifles around, ... http://www.outdoorsurvivalinfo.com/2007/11/26/i-love-my-30-30/ It's frustrating to go out into the woods and see nothing. Likewise, it's also frustrating to have hunters walking all over the deer path you know the deer would travel were it not for the intruding humans. Man, I need to buy some land so I don't have to deal with ... http://www.outdoorsurvivalinfo.com/2007/11/24/the-woods-are-crowded-with-people-not-deer/ No deer! I haven't seen any deer yet. I think I might have heard one crossing the creek behind the brush line, but I can't be sure. It could have been some loud ducks. Weekend number two of modern gun deer season is looking rather dismal. Maybe it's this ridiculous heat. ... http://www.outdoorsurvivalinfo.com/2007/11/17/where-the-deer-arent/ I've been adding more and more products to my bug out gear supply shop. And I'm going to add more and more. So go check it out and buy some gear. If you don't see anything you want or need right now, sign up as a customer so you will ... http://www.outdoorsurvivalinfo.com/2007/11/14/lots-of-gear-at-my-gear-shop/ It's important to stay warm when out and about during the winter, and with winter coming right around the corner, I thought I would tell you guys about a new category at my gear shop. The new category is Cold Weather Gear, and it contains only two items right now. ... http://www.outdoorsurvivalinfo.com/2007/11/08/stay-warm-outside/ I hold the personal belief that the knife is the single most useful thing ever invented by man. I also am of the mind that one should have a particular knife for a particular job. Now, sure, there are some great "utility" knives out there, suitable for a wide variety ... http://www.outdoorsurvivalinfo.com/2007/11/03/i-got-a-new-knife/ Since my bow broke, and I haven't been able to acquire a new one, it looks like I'll just be hunting deer this year with modern firearms. Further, my budget isn't going to allow for me to buy a rifle (unless I find some mystery money), so I'll just be ... http://www.outdoorsurvivalinfo.com/2007/10/22/looks-like-its-just-gun-hunting-for-me-this-year/ It's been a while since I've posted anything here. But don't worry, I'm still here. I think I'm going to have to just stick to gun hunting this year, with modern weapons. My budget is totally shot, and since my bow broke, I've got nothing for archery season. I don't have ... http://www.outdoorsurvivalinfo.com/2007/10/13/been-a-while/ Everyone needs a bug out bag. Why, you ask? The answer is simple. You never know when you might need it. Emergencies are emergencies because people don't see them coming. The disasters strike suddenly and with great force. Then, all of a sudden, you are surrounded by crisis. Having some gear ... http://www.outdoorsurvivalinfo.com/2007/09/22/why-have-a-bug-out-bag/ Squirrels are not as easy to hunt as I thought. I have been out to the woods twice, and I still haven't even seen one where I was. I have seen squirrels out in the woods before, but never while hunting them. They aren't like city squirrels...these suckers hide from ... http://www.outdoorsurvivalinfo.com/2007/09/16/those-squirrels-are-squirrley/ Face it, squirrels are everywhere. When stuck in the woods somewhere, you'll need to eat. The food you carry with you will only last so long. You may need to find another source of food to get you through to safety. It seems that eating squirrel has a certain stigma to ... http://www.outdoorsurvivalinfo.com/2007/09/03/squirrel-season-starting-soon/ There I was, getting ready to practice with my bow when the unthinkable happened. I pulled back, released my arrow, and heard a loud and very strange twang. I looked at my used Browning Ballistic Mirage compound bow and noticed one of the cables dangling. This may be a repairable ... http://www.outdoorsurvivalinfo.com/2007/08/24/my-bow-broke/ While camping this weekend, I learned a valuable lesson. It's good to have a padded sleeping mat when camping. I learned this the hard way, quite literally, by sleeping on the hard, rocky ground. Not only will one of these pads make sleeping all nice and comfy, but it can ... http://www.outdoorsurvivalinfo.com/2007/08/13/i-need-to-get-a-camping-mat/ I've survived the weekend camping trip, with only a large area of my body sunburned. The only survival skill that I practiced over the weekend was sleeping on a hard, rocky surface while in a tent that was about 20 degrees too hot for sleeping. Naturally, this made my sunburn even ... http://www.outdoorsurvivalinfo.com/2007/08/12/back-from-camping/ There's a new forum out there focused on the outdoors. Hunting, fishing, camping, and basically anything else. Now, I know a lot of you guys already have a favorite forum, but that doesn't mean you can't give another one a try. This outdoor forum is called Hardwood Hollow. It's new, and ... http://www.outdoorsurvivalinfo.com/2007/08/10/outdoor-forum/ I'm going camping this weekend at a lake. Greers Ferry Lake in Central/Northern-ish Arkansas. It's a fun place with plenty of camping and water adventures. This is a family camping trip, complete with in-laws and little kids. So it's really more like moteling, or RVing, than camping. But I guess that ... http://www.outdoorsurvivalinfo.com/2007/08/10/going-camping-this-weekend/ A little trick I learned from my Marine OSO Captain was to pack plenty of zipper-locked sandwich and freezer bags with your gear. Books, maps, and electronics don't like water very much. No matter how water-resistant your pack is, the rain will penetrate eventually. Not to mention streams and lakes ... http://www.outdoorsurvivalinfo.com/2007/08/06/keep-your-gear-dry/ While browsing various AR parts dealers online, I see that I have a lot to choose from. Not only are there several configuration variations for the AR platform (A2, M4, A3, etc.), but there are a wide variety of calibers available. The first thing I have to do is decide on ... http://www.outdoorsurvivalinfo.com/2007/08/03/building-an-ar-platform-rifle/ When you need to get out of town to avoid getting caught up in some disaster, you'll need supplies. Bug Out Bags are not really meant to be a replacement to your life, but rather to get you through the first tough couple of days of a disaster. Once the ... http://www.outdoorsurvivalinfo.com/2007/08/01/72-hour-bug-out-kits/ Survival situations can include driving your car. You might be evading an aggressor, or you could be trying to get to the Emergency Room with a wounded family member in the car. Regardless of what is pushing you to drive like a stunt man, you need to have the skills ... http://www.outdoorsurvivalinfo.com/2007/07/19/emergency-driving/ Guns are expensive. That’s the plain and simple truth. A quality firearm will cost you anywhere from $500 to $3000. Not exactly pocket change, I know. A lot of people I know don’t own any guns at all because they feel that they just don’t have the money to afford ... http://www.outdoorsurvivalinfo.com/2007/07/19/the-affordable-shotgun/ If you don't know how to fish, take the time to learn the basics. It may save your life one day. That's important, isn't it? Fishing is fun and relaxing, but besides that, it's a way to fill your belly when there's not much else to eat. When in a survival ... http://www.outdoorsurvivalinfo.com/2007/07/17/fishing-is-a-must-have-survival-skill/ I have finally made my decision about a hunting rifle. Now, I know that in the past I said I was going to get a surplus Mosin-Nagant to hunt with, but I don't think I will now. I think I would rather have something a little more modern. Modern...ha. I've chosen ... http://www.outdoorsurvivalinfo.com/2007/07/16/hunting-rifle-of-choice/ I read an article today that made a pretty decent case for the .270 as an ideal deer hunting cartridge. The article was in the current issue of Peterson's Hunting (August 2007). Technically, the piece was written from the angle of getting rid of (well, not hunting with) some too-weak, ... http://www.outdoorsurvivalinfo.com/2007/07/04/a-case-for-the-270/ It is with a sad heart that I must announce the closure of my online shop, BDR Gear. It was a good run, but it's time to close down. Fear not! I will have some gear shop recommendations for you. So, if you don't already have a favorite shop you use ... http://www.outdoorsurvivalinfo.com/2007/06/21/getting-your-outdoor-gear/ I'm sure there are some of you out there who bought a pistol, but don't really know how to properly maintain it. Don't be ashamed, you never know something until you learn it. Check out this helpful little article for some pistol cleaning basics: How to maintain a handgun http://www.outdoorsurvivalinfo.com/2007/06/21/cleaning-your-pistol/ Here's a little article about surviving a shark attack: How To Survive a Shark Attack Naturally, use this article at your own risk... http://www.outdoorsurvivalinfo.com/2007/06/20/how-to-survive-a-shark-attack/ Have you heard of the new Sig Sauer pistol? A few days ago I picked up the new issue of Guns and Ammo and there was a new Sig pistol exhibited as the cover story. Well, it looks pretty, and, according to the article, should be quite a pistol. It's the ... http://www.outdoorsurvivalinfo.com/2007/06/17/new-sig-pistol/ As summer starts to hit hard, making me sweat in the strangest places, I begin to think about this approaching hunting season. The way summers have gone for my entire life, fall will be here before I know it. Therefore, I need to start preparing now, lest I only bag ... http://www.outdoorsurvivalinfo.com/2007/06/13/the-coming-hunting-season/ I've got to get a Sig Sauer. I'm thinking the P220. Any thoughts? http://www.outdoorsurvivalinfo.com/2007/06/09/gotta-get-a-sig/ As the temperature rises, so should your water consumption. You're going to be a bit warmer than you were in the winter, and as a result, you'll need more water. Just walking down the street is likely to produce a nice sweat. Sweating out that water means you'll need to ... http://www.outdoorsurvivalinfo.com/2007/06/09/hydrate-hydrate-hydrate/ The Hurricane season is now here. If you are in a danger zone, you need to prepare yourself. If you haven't already done so, buy some MREs, bottled water, emergency blankets, a good pocket knife, a good flashlight, and a good pair of boots. Put all that gear (including whatever ... http://www.outdoorsurvivalinfo.com/2007/06/01/hurricane-season-is-here/ To many, emergency preparation means getting ready to bug out. These individuals have their bug out bags and their bug out plans. When disaster strikes, they are ready to go and they execute their plan. But, I wonder, is this really the best course of action? Another option that some merely ... http://www.outdoorsurvivalinfo.com/2007/05/21/to-bug-out-or-to-bug-in-that-is-the-question/ If you don't have one already, you should probably add an M-65 Field Jacket to your wardrobe. It's tough, versatile, and does an excellent job of protecting you from all but the harshest cold weather. Being a military jacket, it was designed to protect soldiers from the elements while allowing them ... http://www.outdoorsurvivalinfo.com/2007/05/21/the-m-65-field-jacket-tough-and-ready-for-action/ The AR platform has been a most-endeared rifle in this country over the past few decades. It's success does not lie exclusivley in the realm of military and law enforcement, however. Sportsman and defensive-minded citizens have taken the Black Rifle to heart. I would like to have one, but I'm not ... http://www.outdoorsurvivalinfo.com/2007/05/12/the-black-rifle/ There is no tool more essential to your survival than a knife. In my opinion, it is the greatest and most useful invention of man, surpassing even the wheel. After all, man could not make the wheel without something to cut the stone. Nor could he skin his game so ... http://www.outdoorsurvivalinfo.com/2007/05/11/the-knife/ This week's featured gear is the Springfield XD Service Pistol. If you don't have one, go run out and buy one, because I really think that you'll be pleased with the purchase. I have owned a Springfield XD 9 Service for over a year, and it is one magnificent pistol. It's ... http://www.outdoorsurvivalinfo.com/2007/05/02/springfield-xd-service-pistol/ I came across a useful article that I wanted to share. It's got some pretty good survival information in it, so read it and remember the advice offered. How to get out of a car that is hanging over a cliff. http://www.outdoorsurvivalinfo.com/2007/04/25/get-out-of-a-car-hanging-over-a-cliff/ A decent firearm should be a staple in most people's disaster kits. Why a firearm? Well, simply, you never know when you're going to need one. In a disaster, everything is chaotic, and you might need some way to defend yourself, your family, your food source, or you home. Or, ... http://www.outdoorsurvivalinfo.com/2007/04/18/finding-a-survival-firearm/ I went to the range yesterday, and I was horrible. I took my Springfield XD9, and my lack of practice was evident. My shots were all high, high and to the right, or just all over the place. I hadn't been to the range for nearly a year -- eleven months, ... http://www.outdoorsurvivalinfo.com/2007/04/15/range-report-practice-practice-practice/ Starting next week, I'm going to have a "Featured Gear" column that will feature some particular item that may be useful in a survival situation. I plan on making this a weekly thing, but don't get angry if I'm late one week. I'm a busy man. Anyway, I'll highlight the gear ... http://www.outdoorsurvivalinfo.com/2007/04/12/featured-gear-of-the-week/ The B.O.B., or Bug Out Bag, is probably the most important piece of equipment you need in case of an emergency. Though it is made up of several parts, it's one grab and go item that you will be glad you have should disaster strike. Even though this piece of equipment has "Bug Out" ... http://www.outdoorsurvivalinfo.com/2007/04/07/the-importance-of-the-bug-out-bag/ With hurricane season right around the corner -- June 1, I believe -- everyone in the danger zone needs to make sure that they are prepared for disaster. Hurricane Katrina taught me that we always need to be prepared for what we don't see coming. Sure, that region is used to ... http://www.outdoorsurvivalinfo.com/2007/04/03/hurricane-season-is-coming-soon/ I set out to find a hunting rifle, with the intent that it be somewhat utilitarian. I wasn't just after a hunting rifle...I wanted a firearm that could serve multiple purposes if needed. Sure, if it's decent and everything, it probably won't be really good at one particular thing, like ... http://www.outdoorsurvivalinfo.com/2007/03/18/choosing-a-rifle-part-3-my-decision/ While researching various long guns for this rifle search, I have learned that this isn't going to be an easy decision. Simply put, I want them all. There are so many fine rifles out there, it's going to be hard to choose. I have looked at all sorts of rifles -- ... http://www.outdoorsurvivalinfo.com/2007/03/15/choosing-a-rifle-part-2-some-thoughts/ As you can see by the post right below this one, something is amiss. I did not write the post with those huge spaces in it, nor did I assign any style or formatting to it. I'm using a slightly old version of WordPress, so I guess I need to update ... http://www.outdoorsurvivalinfo.com/2007/03/12/time-for-an-upgrade/ Choosing a rifle that would be suitable as a basic all-around utility weapon is my goal. I mean that I am looking for a rifle that is both field-ready for hunting large game and also battle-ready for defending my family. I've come up with some basic criteria that I will ... http://www.outdoorsurvivalinfo.com/2007/03/08/choosing-a-rifle-part-1/ I am searching for a hunting rifle right now, and I'm not sure what I am going to get. So, I have decided that I will chronicle my search here for you. When I finally make a purchase, I'll explain my reasoning, and maybe that insight will help another decide ... http://www.outdoorsurvivalinfo.com/2007/03/08/upcoming-info/ Being aware is important to your survival, whether you're just out for a hike, or if you're in an emergency situation. What do I mean by being aware? I mean paying attention to your surroundings all the time, at least on some level. Even being minutely aware of the mean-looking ... http://www.outdoorsurvivalinfo.com/2007/01/16/on-awareness/ Without sounding too ridiculous, I will say that survival is simply a matter of surviving. Brilliant deduction, isn't it? The key to survival is preparation coupled with awareness. Without those two items working in concert, you may not live through the night. And I'm not exaggerating when I say that. ... http://www.outdoorsurvivalinfo.com/2006/12/18/what-is-survival/ Within these pages you will find information and articles on a wide variety of topics. Survival, outdoor sports, personal security, and more will be found in this site. http://www.outdoorsurvivalinfo.com/2006/12/10/survival-and-other-outdoor-activities/