How to Make Branch Crayons
I lead nature hikes for several organizations including California State Parks and the US Fish and Wildlife Service. And if you’ve hiked with me before, your first moments include … Continue Reading →
Category: Skills
Primitive skills, modern skills
How to Make Fire out of Snow (Video, Humor)
Forget those fake “survival TV” shows. Ignore those dirty sweaty heroes jumping off cliffs and drinking their urine. Reject the programs filled with unstable city-dwellers thrown into contrived dramas … Continue Reading →
Good Axe Technique is no Axe-ident! (Download)
My Lack of Axe-perience In 1973 the OPEC oil embargo caused fuel shortages and sky-high prices throughout the United States. Like many families, my parents supplemented our heating oil … Continue Reading →
New York Times Recommends “Primitive Technology” (Video)
Against my will, I was bewitched. Like 20 million others, I casually tuned in to watch the “Primitive Technology” videos on YouTube. I admit it, I was cynical. I … Continue Reading →
Something to Try: The Cross Stick Fire (Video)
I love learning new bushcraft skills! No matter how long I practice bushcraft, there is always so much more to learn. There are techniques aimed at specific environments, traditional … Continue Reading →
My Mistake at Flora Lake
You have brains in your head. You have feet in your shoes. You can steer yourself in any direction you choose. You’re on your own, and you know what … Continue Reading →
Bushcraft Knife Skills – Practice with the Masters (Video)
. Did you know I played drums in a Hollywood rock band? I needed a creative outlet from my very intense and cerebral job as an engineer. And being a drummer … Continue Reading →
Pine Sap Glue (Video)
Pine resin (also called pine pitch) is an amazing substance. It is hardened sap that pine trees secrete when they are cut or damaged. In another article, I explain … Continue Reading →
Rattlesnake Safety for Hikers
I won’t lie, I feel lucky to be typing this. I nearly stepped between two enormous, hormone-crazed, Northern Pacific Rattlesnakes. The male snakes were engaged in a combat dance. … Continue Reading →
Bushcraft Knife Safety – 9 Tips to Avoid Accidents
It’s so shiny! The smooth grip feels like it was made for your hand. The lustrous blade playfully reflects trees and sky. You heft it gently, gauging its weight … Continue Reading →