Experience
Nothing compares to the lessons learned through experience. With each passing day, one becomes smarter, faster, and better.
Bushcraft isn’t just about surviving but truly thriving in the wild. It involves using natural resources and traditional skills, including building shelters, sourcing food and water, and crafting tools from the land. Focused on self-reliance and adaptability, bushcraft teaches people to work in harmony with nature.
While bushcraft emphasizes using knowledge, skill, and natural resources to survive, it doesn’t mean being facing the wilderness completely unprepared. Basic tools are the foundation of bushcraft. Practitioners can choose which tools to forgo as they further challenge themselves.
Cutting Tool
▢ Folding Knife
▢ Fixed Blade Knife
▢ Machete
▢ Axe
▢ Saw
▢ Multi-Tool
Fire-Starter
▢ Lighter
▢ Matches
▢ Ferro Rod
▢ Flint and Steel
▢ Tinder
Electronics
▢ Smartphone
▢ Battery Pack
▢ Watch
Food & Water Gear
▢ Water Bottle
▢ Metal Pot
▢ Cast Iron
▢ Metal Pan
▢ Fishing Supplies
▢ Metal Spatula
▢ Metal Spoon
▢ Water Filter
Clothing
▢ Shirt
▢ Pants
▢ Puffer Jacket
▢ Rain Jacket
▢ Hat
▢ Beanie
▢ Gloves
▢ Bandana
Footwear
▢ Shoes
▢ Socks
Shelter
▢ Tent
▢ Bivvy Sack
▢ Hammock
Flashlight
▢ Headlamp
▢ Flashlight
Sleeping
▢ Sleeping Bag
▢ Sleeping Pad
Backpack
▢ Everyday Backpack
▢ Tactical Backpack
▢ Hiking Daypack
▢ Overnight Backpack
Other Gear
▢ First-Aid Kit
▢ Hygiene
▢ Duct Tape
▢ Parachord
▢ Bailing Wire
▢ Zip Ties
▢ GPS Navigation
▢ Compass
▢ Tarp
▢ Hiking Stick
▢ Bear Spray
At the heart of bushcraft isn’t a knife, a tarp, or any tool—it is the man. His strength, wisdom, and tenacity define the craft. Bushcraft reveals what a man is truly capable of when left to himself and the wild.
A reservoir of information about the wilderness that can be accessed when needed. Geography, plants, animals, insects, etc.
Nothing compares to the lessons learned through experience. With each passing day, one becomes smarter, faster, and better.
The modern world consists of fast and easy conveniences. In contrast, bushcraft is a slow process that requires time and extreme patience.
At the heart of bushcraft is the knife—a fundamental tool used for building shelters, hunting, crafting traps, and a wide range of survival tasks.
No Single 'Best' Knife
• A chainsaw can’t butter bread—each tool has specific uses.
• Weight, length, design, and features vary by task and purpose.
• Over time, you'll find the tools and features that best suit your needs.
Starter Bushcraft Tools
•Three-Tool Setup for Beginners
•Fixed-Blade Knife: Small enough for food prep, large enough for small branches
• Axe/Hatchet: As long of a handle that you can comfortably carry.
• Folding Saw: Ideal for cutting wood
Higher Price ≠ Higher Quality
• Modern blade-making is cheap and simple.
• Diminishing bang-for-your-buck: Quality of blades are not dramatically different for cheap vs expensive options.
• No need to buy the highest-priced blade to take bushcraft seriously
Sharpening Stone
• A dull blade is dangerous and ineffective
• Make sure to bring/buy a complementary sharpening stone.
2.91 in/7.49 cm Blade
3.4 oz | 96.4 g
3 in/7.62 cm Blade
3.9 oz | 110.6 g
4.39 in/10.9 cm Blade
9.6 oz | 272.0 g
4.1 in/10.4 cm Blade
4.1 oz | 117.0 g
12.19 in/30.96 cm Blade
1.38 lbs | 0.62 kg
22 in/55.88 cm Blade
1.12 lbs | 0.51 kg
17.3 in/44 cm Length
2.2 lb | 0.98 kg
14 in/35.6 cm Length
1.3 lb | 0.59 kg
14.2 in/36.1 cm Blade
14.2 oz | 402.6 g
10 in/25.4 cm Blade
10.6 oz | 300 g
8.5 oz | 240 g
10.9 oz | 310 g
Building in your key to warmth, to cooking your food, to drying your clothes, to being your light-source. Civilization began with fire, so it is the foundation of bushcraft.
Fire-Building Skills
• Master the basics: selecting and using tinder, kindling, and firewood.
• Practice primitive methods like the fire bow to deepen respect and skill in true fire-building.
Ferro Rod
• Durable for thousands of strikes
• Ideal for long-term, repeated use
Gas Lighter
• Easiest and most practical fire-starting tool
• Can still spark effectively even after fuel is depleted
Tinder
• Extremely flammable material
• Challenging to forage without local knowledge
• Often carried by practitioners to speed up fire-starting
0.4 oz | 11.3 g
0.1 oz | 3 g
0.8 oz | 23 g
1.1 oz | 31 g
2.05 oz | 58 g
8.48 oz | 240 g
0.5 oz | 14 g
2.05 oz | 58 g
Hunger and thirst can dampen even the most enthusiastic spirits on a bushcraft outing. Proper preparation ensures a more enjoyable adventure.
Hunting and Gathering
• Actually long-term eating through hunting and foraging is a skill honed over a lifetime.
• Bring backup food when attempting this practice.
• Be aware of risks: parasites, bacteria, and disease can lead to long-term health issues or even death.
Titanium
• Extremely light, poor heat transfer
• Best for ultralight backpacking and boiling water
Aluminum
• Moderately light, decent heat transfer
• Suitable for backpacking
Stainless Steel
• Heavy, good heat transfer
• Ideal for camping and backpacking
Cast Iron
• Extremely heavy, excellent heat transfer
• Great for camping and bushcraft
Stainless Steel Insulated
18-64oz Capacity
14-33 oz | 400-936 g
Plastic
32oz Capacity
6.25 oz | 177 g
Stainless Steel
12 oz | 340 g
Titanium
3.6 oz | 102 g
5 Quarts
12.5 lb | 5.67 kg
10.25-In
5.7 lb | 2.59 kg
8-In
1.2 lb | 0.54 kg
8-In
2.25 lb | 1.02 kg
Line/Hooks/Lures
Stainless Steel
0.75 lb | 0.34 kg
0.7 oz | 19 g
5.2 oz | 147 g
3.53 oz | 100 g
Modern electronics are the gateway to weather reports, navigation, communication, and the internet.
Why Only iPhone?
• Apple remains the leading smartphone brand.
• The only smartphone offering Emergency SOS via satellite
• While iPhones offer unique features, other smartphones are also viable.
Phone Case
• Always protect your phone with a case.
• While OtterBox is one option, any case that provides adequate protection is sufficient.
Emergency SOS via Satellite
• Ability to message via satellite connection in areas without cell service
• Historically, only very expensive satellite communicators could do this
• You can learn more about Emergency SOS via satellite on Apple's Website
Waterproof
• Newer iPhones are built to be highly water-resistant.
• For submersion, use a waterproof pouch for added protection.
6.9-inch Display
48-MP / 5x Optical Zoom Camera
27 Hours Video Playback
8 GB RAM
8 oz | 227 g
6.1-inch Display
48-MP / 2x Optical Zoom Camera
22 Hours Video Playback
8 GB RAM
6 oz | 170 g
6.1-inch Display
12-MP / 2x Optical Zoom Camera
20 Hours Video Playback
6 GB RAM
6.1 oz | 172 g
Charge Venture 75 in 7-14 Hours
2.28 lb | 1.04 kg
19,200mAh
1.27 lb | 0.58 kg
10,000mAh
0.54 lb | 0.24 kg
32-Day Battery With Solar
GPS Navigation
100m Water Resistance
3.14 oz | 89 g
72-Hour Battery
GPS Navigation
Emergency Communicator
100m Water Resistance
2.26 oz | 64 g
10-Year Battery
100m Water Resistance
1.5 oz | 43 g
Clothing is your protection from cold, wind, rain and snow. It protects you from poisonous plants, pesky insects, scratches, and harmful UV rays.
Why Wear Long Shirt/Pants
• Shields skin from harmful UV rays.
• Offers defense against insects and poisonous plants, reducing skin irritation and allergic reactions.
• Provides coverage against thick vegetation.
Avoid Cotton
• Cotton absorbs moisture (sweat and rain).
• Select wool or synthetic material that wicks-away moisture.
Dress For The Season / Climate
• Hot Weather: Opt for lightweight, breathable clothing to promote ventilation and keep you cool.
• Cold Weather: Layer with thicker, insulated clothing to retain body heat. Fabrics like wool or synthetic blends work best.
Nylon/Polyester
UPF 30+
8.6 oz | 244 g
Polyester
UPF 50+
6.7 oz | 190 g
Cotton/Nylon/Spandex
UPF 50+
14.9 oz | 422 g
Nylon/Spandex
UPF 50+
13 oz | 369 g
800-Fill Down
14.8 oz | 420 g
580-Fill Down
10.58 oz | 300 g
14.1 oz | 400 g
10.5 oz | 298 g
Cotton/Nylon
Wax Coating
0.6 lb | 0.27 kg
Merino Wool
3.2 oz | 90.7 g
Synthetic/Rubber
4 oz | 113 g
Cotton
7.20 oz | 204 g
Don't skimp on anything that separates you from the ground. Your shoes and socks will support every step of your journey, so it's essential to take special care in selecting and maintaining them.
High Cut vs Low Cut Shoes
• High cut: Prevent rolled ankles and more protective
• Low cut: Best for hot, flat, sandy areas
Online Shopping Tips
• Can't try on shoes when shopping online
• Try on at Cabela’s, REI, or Scheels to find the right fit WITH your hiking socks
• Allow time for returns or ordering different sizes before your adventure
Wool vs Cotton Socks
• Cotton Socks: Absorb moisture, become cold when wet
• Wool Socks: Wick away moisture, remain warm when wet
Break Your Shoes In
• Essential to wear new shoes for a few weeks before your adventure
• If short on time, use old sneakers instead
Blister Prevention
• Good hiking socks help reduce or eliminate blisters
• Properly broken-in shoes are key
• Feet develop calluses over time with long-distance walking
Leather
Waterproof
2.29 lb | 1.04 kg
Leather
Waterproof
2.56 lb | 1.16 kg
Leather and Mesh
Breathable
2.56 lb | 1.16 kg
Merino Wool
3.4 oz | 96 g
Marino Wool
3.53 oz | 100 g
Polyester/Wool/Spandex
4.4 oz | 125 g
A quality shelter and a good night sleep can make or break a bushcraft adventure.
Trekking Pole Tents
• Use trekking poles as tent supports to save weight on tough hikes.
Sleeping With Food
• Essential in bear country
• Hang food away from camp to avoid attracting bears.
Tent vs Hammock vs Bivvy Sack
• Ultimately depends on preference and the specific adventure conditions
• Tent: Most protection and common choice
• Hammock: Heavy and minimal protection
• Bivvy Sack: Ultra-light and minimal protection
1-Person
Trekking Pole Tent
0.74 lb | 0.34 kg
1-Person
1.6 lbs | 0.7 kg
1-Pesron
3.5 lbs | 1.6 kg
15.8 oz / 448 g
23 oz | 651 g
3.19 lb | 1.45 kg
1.40 lb | 0.63 kg
Unless your adventure is in Manhattan a reliable flashlight is crucial—and sometimes lifesaving.
Batteries
• Removable external batteries: Allow easy replacement and flexibility.
• Common sizes (AA, AAA): Widely available and versatile.
• Remove batteries when not in use: Prevents leaks, extends lifespan.
• Use fresh batteries each trip: Ensures brightness and duration.
Size & Headlamps
• Compact flashlights: Prioritize for portability; weight and size are key.
• Headlamps: Preferred for practical, hands-free convenience.
3-AAA Battery
400 Lumen Output
3.04 oz | 86 g
3-AAA Battery
300 Lumen Output
2.65 oz | 75 g
2-AA Battery
332 Lumen Output
4.15 oz | 118 g
3-AAA Battery
140 Lumen Output
4.51 oz | 128 g
Staying warm at night is essential to sleeping soundly and keeping warm.
Duck Down Sleeping Bag Insulation
• Highest quality insulation
• Lightest and warmest option
• Often the most expensive
Sleeping Bag Liners
• Acts as a "sheet" for your sleeping bag
• Helps keep the bag clean and adds warmth
Storage Tip
• Store loosely packed to preserve long-term quality
Inflatable vs. Foam Pads
• Inflatable: More compact, more comfortable
• Foam: More durable, easier to set up/take down, generally cheaper
20-30°F Rated
950-Fill Down
1.57-1.79 lb | 0.68-0.81 kg
15-30°F Rated
650-Fill Down
2.09-3.09 lb | 0.95-1.4 kg
20°F Rated
550-Fill Down
2.16-2.69 lb | 0.99-1.22 kg
Inflatable
0.8 lbs | 0.4 kg
Foam
0.7 lbs | 0.3 kg
Foam
0.8 lbs | 0.4 kg
The longer the adventure and the tougher the terrain, the more important a high-quality pack becomes. A well-designed backpack can make all the difference in your journey.
Brand
• Osprey is renowned as a top-tier brand in the backpack space.
• Other high-quality brands include Cotopaxi, Deuter, and Gregory.
Hip Belt
• Essential for backpacks to properly transfer weight from your back to your waist, improving comfort.
Why No CamelBacks (Bladders)
• Tend to be more complicated, prone to leaks, and harder to clean and refill.
• They also make it difficult to track water usage.
• Experienced adventurers often prefer traditional water bottles for reliability and simplicity.
Size
• Backpack capacity is measured in liters (e.g., 36 equals 36 liters).
• 6 to 10 liters: Small packs for essentials.
• 10 to 30 liters: Daypacks for day trips.
• 30 to 50 liters: Medium packs for short trips.
• 50+ liters: Backpacking packs for extended trips.
Waterproof Options
• Waterproof backpack: Provides built-in water resistance.
• Backpack tarp: Can be added to cover a larger pack.
• Poncho: Can cover smaller packs but may not fit larger ones.
35 Liters
3.7 lb | 1.68 kg
20 Liters
1.94 lb | 0.88 kg
25 Liters
2.2 lb | 1 kg
36 Liters
Waterproof
4.41 lb | 2.00 kg
24 Liters
3.15 lb | 1.43 kg
40 Liters
2.9 lb | 1.32 kg
Waterproof
36 Liters
3.37 lb | 1.53 kg
30 Liters
2.01 lb | 0.91 kg
35 Liters
2.2 lb | 1 kg
65 Liters
4.81 lb | 2.18 kg
58 Liters
2.94 lb | 1.33 kg
50+10 Liters
3.70 lb | 1.68 kg
8 oz | 227 g
5.8 oz | 164 g
1.3 lb | 0.59 kg
100-ft Parachord
8.8 oz | 250 g
175-ft
0.96 lb | 0.44 kg
12+8+6+4 Inch
1.09 lb | 0.50 kg
GPS Navigation
Sattelite Communicator
3.5 oz | 99 g
1.5 oz | 43 g
8x10-ft
3.53 oz | 100 g
66-137 cm Length
20 oz | 567 g
30 ft Spray Range
7.9 oz | 224 g