12 Survival Skills Every Outdoor Enthusiast Should Know | THE SHED KNIVES BLOG #35

Welcome back to The S.K. Blog for edition #35. If you're new here, welcome! As an outdoor enthusiast, getting into nature can be incredibly rewarding, but it also comes with its share of challenges. Whether you're hiking in the wilderness, camping in remote areas, or exploring uncharted territories, knowing essential survival skills is necessary for survival. In this blog, we'll dive into 12 crucial survival skills that every outdoor enthusiast should know. Let's start with point number one.

1. Shelter Building

Knife featured: 2023 Shed Knives Resilience in Day Glow G-10

Knowing how to construct a shelter is vital for protection against the elements. Learn how to create a temporary shelter using available resources like branches, leaves, and debris. Master different shelter designs such as lean-tos, debris huts, and the utilization of natural caves. Understanding basic shelter building techniques will keep you warm and dry during unexpected situations in the wilderness.

2. Finding Potable Water

Water is essential for survival, and knowing how to find and purify it is extremally important for survival. Learn to identify potential water sources like rivers, streams, and natural springs. Additionally, understand water purification methods such as boiling, using water purification tablets, or building a simple sand filter. This skill will ensure you have access to safe drinking water, even in challenging environments.

3. Fire Starting

Knife featured: 2023 Shed Knives Conquest in Skur Orange G-10

The ability to start a fire is a key element of survival to know in the wilderness. Start with learning basic fire-starting techniques, including using a lighter, matches, and fire starters. Next, primitive methods like the bow drill or flint and steel will be helpful when "first-world resources" aren't available. Understanding fire safety is equally important, so learn how to extinguish a fire properly and prevent wildfires.

4. Navigation without GPS

Knife featured: 2021 Shed Knives Conquest

In the absence of GPS or electronic devices, navigation skills are vital. Learn how to use a compass and read topographic maps. Familiarize yourself with natural navigation techniques, such as using the sun, stars, and landmarks to find your way. With these skills, you can confidently explore unfamiliar terrain and find your route back to safety.

5. Wilderness First Aid

Knife featured: 2023 Shed Knives Sheepsfoot in Tiffany Blue G-10

Learn basic first aid skills, including wound care, CPR, and treating common outdoor injuries like sprains and cuts. Carry a well-equipped first aid kit and know how to use its contents. This knowledge can make a significant difference in providing immediate care before professional help arrives.

6. Food Foraging

Knife featured: 2023 Shed Knives Atlas in Skur Orange G-10

Knowing how to identify edible plants, berries, and insects can supplement your food supplies in the wild. Familiarize yourself with local flora and fauna and learn to distinguish between edible and poisonous species. Remember to practice ethical foraging, taking only what you need and leaving no trace behind.

7. Signal for Help

Knife featured: 2022 Shed Knives US Tanto in Midnight Black 550 Cord

Be sure to learn different signaling methods, such as using a whistle, mirror, or flashlight to attract attention. Create visible signals on the ground with rocks or branches to alert rescuers to your location. Smoke signals can also help you stand out in dense forest with the help of pine needles on a hot fire.

8. Knot Tying

Knife featured: 2023 Shed Knives US Tanto in Tiffany Blue G-10

Knot tying is a fundamental skill for various outdoor tasks, including securing gear, building shelters, and creating makeshift tools. Learn essential knots like the bowline, clove hitch, and square knot. Understanding proper knot tying ensures your safety and efficiency in various situations.

Pro Tip:

The bowline knot can be easily tied and will hold your body weight.

9. Wildlife Safety

Knife featured: 2023 Shed Knives Skur in Coyote Tan G-10

Interacting with wildlife requires caution and respect. Learn about the local wildlife and their behavior to avoid dangerous encounters. Store food securely to prevent attracting animals to your campsite. Carry bear spray or other wildlife deterrents when necessary, and know how to use them properly.

10. Improvised Tools and Gear

Viceseha Alsept holding the 2023 Shed Knives Skur in Tiffany Blue G-10

In the wilderness, improvisation of your resources is often necessary. Learn how to create basic tools and gear using available resources, such as making a fishing spear or crafting a makeshift shelter. Being resourceful and adaptable will increase your chances of survival in challenging situations.

11. Mental Resilience

W. Jack Billings holding the 2023 Shed Knives Sheepsfoot in OD Green G-10

Outdoor adventures can be physically and mentally demanding. Cultivate mental resilience to stay calm and focused in stressful situations. Practice mindfulness, meditation, or deep breathing techniques to manage anxiety and fear. A strong and positive mindset will help you make clear decisions and maintain confidence during challenging times.

"If you want to be the best, you better start acting like it."

- W. Jack Billings

12. Leave No Trace Principles

Knife featured: 2023 Shed Knives Sheepsfoot in OD Green G-10

As an outdoor enthusiast, it's vital to minimize your impact on the environment. Embrace the Leave No Trace principles, including proper waste disposal, respecting wildlife and vegetation, and staying on designated trails. Preserving nature's beauty ensures that future generations can enjoy the same outdoor experiences.

Conclusion

Mastering these 12 survival skills will empower you as an outdoor enthusiast, enabling you to embark on adventures with confidence and preparedness. From building shelters and finding water to navigating, signaling for help, and showing respect to wildlife and nature, these essential skills will enhance your safety and enjoyment during your outdoor escapades. Remember to continuously practice and refine your abilities, ensuring you're well-equipped for any challenges nature may present. Happy exploring!

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About The Author:

Jack Billings is the 19 year old CEO and Founder of Shed Knives, a rising manufacturer of high-quality fixed blade bushcraft knives. With over 5 years of experience as a knife maker, he has developed a reputation for crafting durable, reliable knives that are designed for outdoor enthusiasts and bushcrafters alike. Jack started making knives at the age of 13 and has been refining his craft ever since.

In addition to his expertise in knife making, Jack has a High School Degree from POLYTECH High School, where he studied Automotive Technology and obtained his ASE Certification. He is also a content creator for Shed Knives and has reached the eyes of over 600,000 people across the world through his work.

When he's not working on knives, Jack enjoys exploring the outdoors and has a passion for bushcraft. He also has a passion for the automotive world and enjoys learning about new technologies and advancements. Additionally, he has a great interest in language and is studying Spanish, German, and Arabic.

Jack's personal mission is to constantly improve himself, his products, and his processes in order to stay ahead of the rapidly changing interests of the knife industry and to surpass the competition. He takes great pride in American manufacturing and is committed to contributing to the growth of the world knife industry through his work.

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