American Survival Guide 07.2019

How-to: Fire Protection 101
Vol. 8 Issue 7
RANGE
TIME!
Shooting Lead Star’s Barrage PCC9 PREVENT THE PERILS OF
HEAVENLY PANDEMONIUM
HAMMOCK
High and Dry in the
Byer Moskito Kakoon
EUELL GIBBONS’
LEGACY
Discover Food Everywhere in the
Great Outdoors
CORROSION
CORRECTION
Resurrect Treasures Hidden
Under Years of Rust
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FEATURES
12
REMEMBERING EUELL GIBBONS
The man who brought foraging to mainstream America
By Christopher Nyerges
36
DECIPHERING THE SIGNS OF CIVIL
UNREST
Be ready prior to the fighting in the streets.
By Brian M. Morris
76
BUILD AN EDC LITE KIT
Everyday-carry solutions for nonviolent situations
By Dana Benner
HOW-TO
20
FIRE SAFETY 101
Fight fires before things get too hot to handle.
By Dana Benner
70
DEDICATION TO RESTORATION
Rescue hidden treasures hiding under that rusty patina.
By Dana Benner
REVIEWS
28
RANGE TIME WITH LEAD STAR’S 9MM
36
BARRAGE PCC9
It’s tough to beat lightweight, consistent and 12 60
dependable.
By Kevin Reese
44
THE HEAVENLY HAMMOCK
Lounging in the trees with Byer’s Moskito Kakoon
By Reuben Bolieu
60
A BRIGHT IDEA FOR SOLAR NAVIGATION
The African SunCompass is accurate, compact and
battery-free.
By Brian M. Morris
88
DISCREET DEFENSE AGAINST DIRTY AIR
The Bioscarf stops germs and pollutants cold!
By Christopher Nyerges
AMERICAN SURVIVAL GUIDE (ISSN 2331-8937) is published 12 times a year—January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November, December—by Engaged Media, Inc.,
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GEAR
GUIDE
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TRANSFORMING POLLUTED
INTO POTABLE
Simple, quick and effective water
treatment products
By Michael D’Angona
6
FIRST WORDS
8
NEW PRODUCTS
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PREPPER PLANT ADVISOR
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LAST WORDS
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[ASGMAG.COM] AMERICAN SURVIVAL GUIDE 5

VOL. 8 ISSUE 7
EDITORIAL
Mike McCourt Brand Manager
Kelly Nomura Executive Managing Editor
THINGSARE
Amy Maclean Managing Editor
DESIGN
Nadezda Sverdlova Art Director
CONTRIBUTORS
Dana Benner, Reuben Bolieu, Jim Cobb, Michael D'Angona,
Brian M. Morris, Christopher Nyerges, Kevin Reese
HEATINGUP!
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OPERATIONS
ost people look forward to the some considered a strange way to put food on his table. Manish Kumar Mishra Operations Manager
Surajpal Singh Bisht Prepress Manager
warmer months of the year. Christopher met Gibbons, who was an inspiration and Shailesh Khandelwal Subscriptions Manager
Chandan Pandey Production & Newsstand Circulation Analyst
Except for the oft-oppressive heat, influence for his own writing and teaching about natural Alex Mendoza Administrative Assistant
Victoria Van Vlear Intern Program Manager
invasions on the ground and in foods, just a few years before Gibbons’ death in 1975. He EDITORIAL, PRODUCTION & SALES OFFICE
the air from insect pests, and the shares some of the lessons and insights he learned and 17900 Sky Park Circle, Suite 220, Irvine, CA 92614
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suffocating humidity, summer gives us the chance to reminds us that there are many food options waiting to www.asgmag.com
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get outside and stretch our legs after being cooped up be found all around us, as long as we make the effort to www.facebook.com/eembybeckett
indoors since last fall. study our environment. AMERICAN SURVIVAL GUIDE (ISSN 2331-8937) is published 12 times a year—
January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October,
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occurrence of large gatherings for a variety of social, from Christopher about edible and otherwise useful AMERICAN SURVIVAL GUIDE, C/O ENGAGED MEDIA INC., CENVEO,
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political and other causes. Many Americans take the plants. Each month, in “Prepper Plant Advisor” (see © 2019 by Engaged Media, Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction of
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situations he encountered while on active duty as a U.S. over the last couple of years, fire is a heartless and relent-
Army Special Forces combatant. less force of nature that is difficult to contain at the best
Brian’s article covers several aspects of this topic that of times. As with so many subjects we cover, prevention
will enable you to do a better job of predicting when large is key for ensuring you don’t have to face the flames in or
gatherings might turn dangerous. Reminding us of the around your home. ENGAGED MEDIA, INC.
Scott Hall CEO
basic roots for many of these street conflicts gives us the We hope you’ll enjoy the rest of the articles in this issue. John Goodpasture Vice President, Sales
William Ammerman Executive Vice President, Digital
ability to make better decisions as we get out and about, Remember, American Survival Guide, except for our two Carrie Rubalcaba HR Generalist
now and in the future. Prepper Manuals, is now available by subscription only.
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At the other end of this month’s content spectrum is an Simply visit our website at asgmag.com and click on the information presented is from various sources from which there can be
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interesting article written by Christopher Nyerges about “Subscribe Now” button in the upper right corner. There, completeness or technical accuracy.
Euell Gibbons. Our older readers will remember Gibbons you will find options for print and digital subscriptions GST #855050365RT001
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as the wild food expert who told us in 1970s television that last from one to three years. If you’re looking for Return undeliverable Canadian addresses to:
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commercials that Post Grape Nuts cereal reminded him of back issues, click on the link in the black bar below the
wild hickory nuts. Younger readers have probably heard of “Subscribe Now” button.
this self-reliance pioneer as well. Gibbons devoted much And, while you’re online, be sure to like and follow us
of his life to learning, writing and teaching about the on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram and sign up for our
availability of plentiful and nutritious food in the wild. He free weekly online newsletter.
wrote numerous books and articles and became so widely Stay cool!!
—Mike McCourt
known that he was even parodied and roasted for what Brand Manager

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5.11 Tactical 5.11 Tactical LV10 Backpack Eberlestock Afterburner LOWA Baldo GTX Boots
Norris Sneaker The idea behind the LV line from 5.11 is low visibil- Pant The Baldo GTX is lightweight—just shy of 3
ity. These packs and bags are intended to blend pounds for the pair—and perfect for hiking
The Norris Sneaker was born out of a request The Afterburner Pant was designed for rough
in on the street and be unobtrusive, rather than moderate terrain. The X-Lacing feature keeps
from members of the tactical world. They use in the field. It is made from four-way
screaming, “Tactical!” The LV10 is a sling pack the tongue centered over the foot, both vertically
wanted footwear that would perform like stretch polyester with a water-resistant finish.
with a capacity of 13 liters. The main compart- and horizontally, for comfort. The roller-style
top-tier, high-speed footwear but without The knees and crotch are made for movement
ment measures 10.5 inches high, 16.25 inches eyelets are set on free-moving tabs that allow
the looks of heavy-duty boots. This high-top and won’t bind as you crouch or climb. The
wide and 5.7 inches deep. It has a rear CCW com- for reduced pressure along the top of the foot.
sneaker sports more than a handsome pockets are designed specifically to keep the
partment, side compression straps and multiple They are available in anthracite/olive (shown)
appearance. The Vibram Marbrani outsole contents from falling out; yet, they are still
grab handles. It also has an admin panel, tablet or black/orange. The Gore-Tex lining keeps
provides excellent traction, even in wet con- comfortable. The tapered cuffs help keep dirt,
pocket and numerous interior pockets for great feet warm and dry while still allowing some
ditions. The puncture-resistant sole is ASTM rocks, snow and other debris from getting into
organization of your gear. breathability. Vibram soles ensure great traction,
certified and will withstand up to 1,200 New- your boots. The Afterburner Pant comes in tan,
and the split-grain leather with nylon upper
tons of force. The Norris Sneaker is available in MSRP: $109.99 gray or two different camouflage patterns.
construction will last through rugged use.
black, Dark Coyote Tan and Ranger Green.
www.511Tactical.com MSRP: $169
MSRP: $99.99 MSRP: $260
www.511Tactical.com www.Eberlestock.com
www.LOWABoots.com

F
or most of us, any new gear we’re considering purchasing must be thought about carefully. Do we truly need it, or is it just some-
thing shiny that caught our attention? Is it worth the expense? Is there room in the budget for it? Is it better, lighter or more
durable than what we’re using now?
Sometimes, it is something we’ve never thought about previously. It fills a need we didn’t even know we had. Other times, we
just cross our fingers ... and hope our significant other never sells the gear for what we told them we paid for it.
5 6
7 8
5 6 7 8
TOPS Knives Rapid Strike Bright Forest Forge Spyderco Efficient Spyderco Endura 4
The Rapid Strike is a knife made specifically Pocket Pick Black Blade Wharncliffe
for combat situations. It indexes in the hand
The Pocket Pick is a simple, yet incredibly use- At just a hair more than 4 ounces, the Efficient The Spyderco Endura 4 Wharncliffe is a
perfectly when drawn from the Kydex sheath.
ful, tool. It is made from 5160 steel and has a Black Blade from Spyderco won’t weigh you folding knife that excels at utility, as well as
It has a narrow profile and doesn’t take up
paracord-wrapped handle. Each one is made down. The Spyderco Trademark Round Hole defense. The Wharncliffe blade profile isn’t
much space on the belt or wherever else
by hand. As a result, each one is unique; no provides perfect leverage for one-hand- as popular as some others, such as the drop-
you carry it. The 4.13-inch blade is 154CM
two are identical. These picks can be used to open operation. The knife is completely or clip-point, likely because many people see
steel and, if desired, it can be had with the
bore holes, score or scribe lines, bust knots or blacked out—from the black oxide finish on it as a glorified box-cutter. However, it works
top edge sharpened. Its overall length is
for self-defense. They average about 7 inches the blade to the matching liners and other amazingly well with both cutting and pene-
8.63 inches. The G10 scales combine with
in length and are 1/8 inch thick. Bright Forest hardware. The blade is 8Cr13MoV stainless tration. The Endura has a blade length of 3.75
the jimping on the blade to provide a very
Forge does not make sheaths, but it might steel and has a flat grind, giving it great slicing inches and an overall length of 8.75 inches.
secure grip. It is a thin, lightweight knife at 3.1
recommend a maker upon request. geometry. It is available in either a plain edge The blade is VG-10 stainless steel, and the
ounces—perfect for everyday carry.
(shown) or with a partially serrated edge. A handles are fiberglass-reinforced nylon.
MSRP: $85
MSRP: $180 great liner lock, G10 scales and a reversible
MSRP: $125
pocket clip round out the package.
www.BrightForestForge.com
www.TOPSKnives.com www.Spyderco.com
MSRP: $73
www.Spyderco.com

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Streamlight ProTac 90 Maglite ML150LR Flashlight BigiDesign TPT Slide Tool 5.11 Tactical TKO
Flashlight High-power LEDs are great, but they generate The TPT Slide from BigiDesign is a titanium Ratchet Kit
a lot of heat, which can cause issues with the pocket tool. It packs a surprising number of tools
The ProTac 90 is a right-angle flashlight Having to perform maintenance or a quick
light’s performance. The ML150LR has a pat- into a very compact size: a screwdriver, scraper,
designed for everyday carry. With a single repair to your firearm while you’re in the field
ent-pending heat sink technology that drains pry bar, bottle opener, ¼-inch hex bit opening
CR123A battery, it will generate 300 lumens is nobody’s idea of fun. But it is far better to
heat fast. The light has an adjustable beam that and a universal wrench design that fits 15 SAE
on “high.” That drops to a still-respectable 125 be prepared than to try and make do with
generates 1,000 lumens and will reach about and metric wrench sizes. It can also accept
lumens with an AA battery. The anodized-alu- inefficient or ineffective makeshift solutions.
a quarter-mile. The rechargeable lithium-iron standard utility blades such as those used for
minum body measures 3.75 inches high and The TKO Ratchet Kit comes with a range of
phosphate battery will power the flashlight box-cutters. The TPT comes with a lanyard and
weighs slightly more than 3 ounces with tools, including a pistol punch, pry bar, bottle
for upward of 75 hours (25-lumen Eco mode) a leather pocket sheath. It is a multi-tool you’ll
the CR123A battery. The right-angle design opener and six different hex bits. The bits are
on a full charge. It can be plugged into a wall reach for often.
makes it easy to set the light on a flat surface each color coded, making it easy to grab the
socket or a 12-volt DC source such as is found in
and illuminate an area such as a table or
a vehicle. The dimensions of the ML150LR are MSRP: $80 right one the first time. Everything is stored
workbench. It comes with a nylon belt pouch, together in an elastic webbing holster that can
10.687x1.93 (head) inches.
as well as batteries. https://BigiDesign.com be attached to MOLLE/web if desired.
MSRP: $68 MSRP: $144 MSRP: $19.99

www.Streamlight.com www.Maglite.com www.511Tactical.com

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GSI Outdoors Pinnacle GSI Outdoors ESCAPE GSI Outdoors Gourmet Streamlight Siege X
Dualist Cook Set Bowl With Lid PourOver Java Set Lantern
The Pinnacle Dualist is a complete cook- The ESCAPE Bowl is made from high- If you’re looking for a way to have the perfect The Siege X is a combination of lantern and
ware solution for two. The set contains a grade, stain-resistant silicone. It features cup of coffee out in the wild or at home during a flashlight. As a lantern, it will illuminate a wide
1.9-quart (1.8 liters) hard-anodized pot with molded-in gradations for measurements power outage, here’s the solution. The Gourmet area with up to 325 lumens. However, you can
Teflon coating, nylon strainer lid, two mugs, and a cut-proof bottom. It has a handle, as PourOver Java Set comes with everything you’ll turn it on its side and activate the flashlight at
two bowls and two Folding Foons (the GSI well as a stable base, making eating juggle need. The ceramic, conical-burr coffee grinder the top for a directional beam of 300 lumens.
Outdoors version of the camp spork). They free. The lid is BPA-free clear polypropyl- is adjustable so you can customize the grind to It also has a red light function for the lantern to
reduce from 6.1 inches down to 3.7 inches. ene, and it screws down for a secure seal. your preference. Pop up the #4 drip cone and save your night vision. It uses a USB-recharge-
There is also a waterproof storage bag that The bowl holds up to 18 fluid ounces or just insert the reusable mesh filter. Fill it with your able 18650 battery or will accept two CR123A
can double as a portable sink. In addition, about ½ liter. Perhaps best of all: It collapses ground beans, put it over your mug and pour in batteries. Ever versatile, it can sit on a flat
there is enough storage space for a small down to about an inch thick, allowing it to fit the hot water. It all folds up into a disk that is 1 surface or hang from the handle.
stove and fuel. into even the smallest packs. inch high and fewer than 6 inches wide.
MSRP: $75
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www.Streamlight.com
www.GSIOutdoors.com www.GSIOutdoors.com wwwGSIOutdoors.com

REMEMBERING ONE OF THE MOST PROLIFIC AND POPULAR
PROPONENTS OF FORAGING
BY CHRISTOPHER NYERGES
I
n the late 1960s and early ’70s, a
wave of ecological and “back to the
land” awareness swept the country.
This period saw the rise of the
incredibly popular Mother Earth News
magazine, communes ... and Euell Gibbons.
Euell Gibbons was a man of modest
means who loved to fish and forage and
always wanted to be a writer. Aspiring to
be a novelist, his first work was about a
man who tried to live off the land by eating
common weeds that grow everywhere.
But Gibbons’ publisher told him to rewrite
the book as a guidebook for identifying
these wayside plants: Stalking the Wild
Asparagus, first published in 1962, became
a best-seller in the early 1970s, along with
several other books.
By 1974, Gibbons began to capitalize on
his popularity and became the front-
man for Post Grape Nuts—a cereal that
contained no grapes and no nuts (although
Gibbons said it reminded him of wild hick-
ory nuts). The Post company flew Gibbons › Above: The humble
hickory nut—an BY 1974, GIBBONS BEGAN TO CAPITALIZE
around the country to make many of these
commercials in diverse areas. Gibbons
essential part of the
ad campaign that ON HIS POPULARITY AND BECAME THE
would be brandishing a pine cone, cattails
helped make Euell
Gibbons familiar to FRONTMAN FOR POST GRAPE NUTS—A
or goldenrod flowers and would often be almost every Ameri-
can household in the CEREAL THAT CONTAINED NO GRAPES AND
shown having cereal with a group at their
outdoor breakfast table. Of course, they’d
1970s. (Photo: Wag!)
NO NUTS ...
be eating Grape Nuts. The commercial the common weeds currently growing in North America originally came from Europe, as well as
would end with Gibbons’ final and famous from Asia and Africa.
line, “Reminds me of wild hickory nuts.”
Gibbons had somehow tapped into an BACKGROUND
ancient knowledge America was ready and Gibbons was born in Texas in 1911 and spent his childhood in northwestern New Mexico. He describes
hungry for—the knowledge of how to use the how his family moved from place to place with his father’s job. His income was sporadic.
acres and acres of wild-growing plants that At an early age, Gibbons began to collect wild greens and fruits to supplement the family’s
were both edible and medicinal. Not only did meals. He was only 15 when he left home and took jobs as a cowboy and carpenter. He was
he share the ancient knowledge of Native living in California during the Dust Bowl, and he referred to himself as a hobo during that time.
Americans, he also shared the knowledge of Gibbons served in the Army and later worked as a carpenter and boat-builder. He was married,
wild plants from most of the world, because and divorced, describing his first marriage as a “casualty of the war.” By World War II, Gibbons

› Right: The author
(right) is shown
sitting with Gibbons
at a Pasadena,
California, press
conference in 1975.
(Photo: Christopher
Nyerges)
› Below: In his TV
ads, Gibbons was of-
ten shown holding
was living in Hawaii, building and repairing cattails, explaining
that many parts
boats for the Navy. At 36, he entered the Uni- Pennsylvania, where he pursued his writing aspirations. His first book was published in 1962, and
are edible. Here,
versity of Hawaii as an anthropology student. Angelo Cervera, his books slowly grew in popularity. Once he began doing commercials for Post Grape Nuts in the
a participant in
It was there that he got more serious about early 1970s, the popularity of his books skyrocketed, and Gibbons became a household name.
one of the author’s
writing and also met his second wife, Freda, instructional hikes, Eventually, he was regularly seen on nearly every talk show in the country, especially Johnny
shows examples of
whom he married in 1948. Carson’s “Tonight Show.” Even when he wasn’t on the show, Carson joked about Gibbons’ use of
young, green cattail
By 1953, Gibbons and Freda moved to spikes. wild foods so often that Gibbons became a household name.

‹ Far left: Gibbons’
book, Stalking the
Good Life, My Love Af-
fair With Nature, was
written about four
years before his death
and covered accounts
of living off the land,
advice for finding and
using foods found in
nature and low-im-
pact camping.
‹ Near left: Stalking

the Faraway Places
covered Gibbons’
two-year trek through
parts of the United
States, Canada and
Mexico. It documented
ways to live off the land
in a variety of environ-
ments and also covered
foods not previously
discussed. Also
included were many
related side topics.
Gibbons wrote two articles for National Geo- › Above: Euell Gib-
bons' Beachcomber’s
graphic magazine, regular columns for various Handbook was writ-
newspapers and magazines (such as Organic ten after Gibbons
spent three years in
Gardening magazine) and lectured far and Hawaii. It covered
wide. Each of his books was very popular and a wide variety of
foods, including
included new information about foraging. plants and animals
These books were, indeed, popular —partly on land, as well as
ocean-dwellers.
because of his personality and partly because (Photo: Christopher
there were scant few books about how to Nyerges)
identify and use wild plants at that time. And

the side effect of being so popular was that
he was the constant butt of all the popular
comedians’ jokes. (Gibbons laughed all the
way to the bank!)
THE FTC INTERVENES

In the summer of 1975, the Federal Trade
Commission ordered Gibbons’ commercials
for Post Grape Nuts cereal off the air. Gibbons
died later that year, on December 29, as a
result of a ruptured aortic aneurysm, which
was a complication of Marfan Syndrome.
Gibbons had a valuable message for America:
› Right: Gibbons
displays some wild
hickory nuts—the
focus of his adver-
tising campaign
for Post Grape Nuts
cereal.

› Above, left: Nettle There is a ton of wild, nutritious food growing Natural ingredients are important to me. That’s why Post Grape Nuts is part of my breakfast.”
plants are very everywhere in this country that we could The FTC objected to the apparent connection, especially how it might be interpreted by chil-
common around
the United States eat—but don’t. Gibbons believed the main dren. The ruling said that the commercials “undercut a commonly recognized safety principle—
and were often reason Americans shun wild food is fear of namely, that children should not eat any plants found growing in natural surroundings, except
mentioned by Euell
Gibbons in his writ- ridicule if they stoop to gather weeds, which under adult supervision.”
ings and teachings. are generally regarded as suitable only for the Despite its good intentions, the FTC succeeded in generating a great wave of mistrust and
trash can, not the dinner table.
› Above, right: The FTC ruling appeared to speak to a
Dandelions grow
almost everywhere deeper fear: fear of the unknown. In the cereal
and can be used to commercials, Gibbons spoke of his years of
make several types
of food—from salads foraging for wild food. “Ever eat a pine tree?”
to wine. he asked in one spot. “Many parts are edible.
ABOUT
GIBBONS
Was Euell Gibbons ...
A survivalist? No, although he loved to camp and fish.

A nutritionist? No. He used plenty of white sugar and loved to
deep-fry.
A health food enthusiast? No. Read his recipes.
A prepper? No.
A communist? No. During the Depression, he was fond of communist
literature, but he denounced communism by World War II.
A Quaker? Yes. After marrying Freda, they both joined the Society
of Friends. As Gibbons put it, "I became a Quaker because it was the
only group I could join without pretending to beliefs that I didn't
have or concealing beliefs that I did have."
A vegetarian? Nope. Read his books. He ate many species of wildlife.
A pragmatic wild-food enthusiast? Yes. Gibbons loved to live off the
land and make delicious meals from what nature provided.
‹ The author is shown examining a yucca plant. Euell Gibbons referred to the yucca as the “hard-
ware store” of the wild because it can be used for many purposes.

fear of all wild food—even though Gibbons ‹ Left: Euell Gibbons
espoused the use of
stressed in his books and countless public wild plants that are
appearances that you must never eat any common to many
areas around the
plant or part of a plant until you recognize country, such as this
it as edible. Lambsquarters.
Shortly after the FTC ruling, local media
latched onto two incidents in which teenagers
who had been captivated by Gibbons’ living-
off-the-land philosophy became ill when they
mistakenly ate toxic plants while foraging
near the Angeles National Forest.
Gibbons’ death at the age of 64 seemed
to seal his reputation as a “kook.” At worst,
people suspected that he had accidentally
poisoned himself; at best, it appeared that
eating “natural” foods did not contribute to
longevity. But those of us who saw the real
‹ Below: Author
Nyerges explains
the benefits of
chickweed to one
of his self-reliance
classes. This is one
of the plants Euell
Gibbons collected
nationwide. (Photo
Rick Adams)

value of Gibbons’ teachings still feel he left us with a precious legacy.
BOOKS AND HOW GIBBONS INFLUENCED ME

I first encountered Gibbons in 1972 through his writings. I was working in a local library at the
ARTICLES
time, and I would constantly check out his books and try to identify local plants. Excited and
fascinated by Stalking the Wild Asparagus and his other books, I explored fields and woods
across the country in search of wild edibles. I used some other books, as well, and took classes
BY EUELL in botany in high school and attended lectures on ethnobotany whenever possible.
By 1974, a local nonprofit asked me to lead a wild-food outing to teach the subject, and I
GIBBONS
have continued to lead walks to teach about wild plants ever since.
When Gibbons came to town to give a lecture at Pasadena City College, I was asked to sit
with him afterward while the press asked him questions (I was asked to sit there as “Pasa-
dena’s Euell Gibbons”). He was a friendly, curious and open man. We chatted for the better
part of an hour, our conversation ranging from carob pods to American Indians to compost.
· Stalking the Wild Asparagus (1962)
He told me of his plans for television documentaries about primitive societies that still
· Stalking the Blue-Eyed Scallop (1964)
live totally ecological lives. Gibbons said he hoped to show the modern world some of the
· Stalking the Healthful Herbs (1966) follies of civilization.
· A Wild Way to Eat (1967; a booklet for the Hurricane One of these follies, he told me, is the persistence and the expenditure of so much time and
Island Outward Bound School) money in attempting to eradicate from our yards and parks plants that have thrived for cen-
· Euell Gibbons' Beachcomber’s Handbook (1967) turies. Some of the most common edible “intruders” are dandelion, Lambsquarters, pigweed,
mallow, mustard and sow thistle. Among the most enduring of the wild plants that were
· Feast on a Diabetic Diet (1969)
brought to California in the westward migrations is chickweed. To even the most pampered
· Stalking the Good Life (1971)
palate, it is an incredibly good salad green, yet it often leads the list of “garden pests” in adver-
· National Geographic magazine (July 1972 and August tisements for herbicides. Other “enemies” highly valued by herbalists and naturalists are wild
1973) garlic, plantain, purslane and sour grass.
· Stalking the Faraway Places (1973) Many of the common wild plants have been used for centuries as herbal medicine and still
· Euell Gibbons Handbook of Edible Wild Plants (1979; have value for simple ailments. But, as with any medicinal ingredient, they can be harmful
when abused.
finished by co-author Gordon Tucker after Gibbons’
In 1976, jimsonweed, which has been in California for thousands of years, became the target
death)
of an eradication program when some people erroneously popularized it as a cheap “high.” This
· Organic Gardening Magazine (regular columns) was not the result of teens reading Euell Gibbons books but from teens reading works by Carlos
Castañeda, another guru of the day who wrote about his “apprenticeship” with a Yaqui Indian
... which included the uses of jimsonweed. (Castañeda’s writings, although wildly popular and
› Near right: A view

of some urban wild
edibles. Gibbons
found that the wild
areas in the city were
often abundant with
foods.
› Far right: Purslane is

originally from India
but can be found all
around the United
States. It was one
of the plants Euell
Gibbons mentioned
in his teachings.

MANY OF THE COMMON WILD PLANTS HAVE BEEN USED FOR
CENTURIES AS HERBAL MEDICINE AND STILL HAVE VALUE FOR
SIMPLE AILMENTS. BUT, AS WITH ANY MEDICINAL INGREDIENT,
THEY CAN BE HARMFUL WHEN ABUSED.
very interesting, were demonstrated to be a our ancestors knew; something that is still a deeply respected tradition in many parts of even the ‹ This chickweed
combination of fabrication and plagiarism.) “civilized” world, where scarce food is more prized than ornamental gardens. salad includes one
of the wild plants
So, while many people regarded the natural Despite the ridicule of passersby, on almost any day in almost any park right here in the city, that Euell Gibbons
foods “craze” as a passing fad, others found people still gather berries, cactus, mustard greens, chickweed and wild mushrooms. These wild worked to popularize.
much that is worthwhile in what Gibbons foods are there for the taking. They grow in relative abundance and are much better for you than a
brought to the national attention. I know I do. lot of the processed junk sold in supermarkets.
Gibbons was just passing along something that Euell Gibbons and his many adherents deserve our admiration, not our mockery.

FIGHT FIRES BEFORE THINGS GET
TOO HOT TO HANDLE.
BY DANA BENNER

F
ire is a two-edged sword. It can
be your best friend, or it can be
your worst enemy. The ability
to start a fire is one of the
most important survival skills
you can master. Without fire, you will have a
hard time staying warm, purifying water and
cooking food.
It is impossible to count the number of
articles that have been written about building
and starting a fire, but how much information
have you seen about the dangers associated
with fire and how to control and extinguish a
fire? (We thought so.)
According to the U.S. National Fire
Protection Association (NFPA), there were
357,000 home structure fires reported in
2017. This was the second-lowest count
in the 10 years ending in 2017—but 2,630
people still lost their lives.
How many of these fires could have been
prevented? Maybe the fire was caused by
creosote buildup in the chimney (creosote is
a flammable substance given off when wood
is burned. This substance is more common in
soft woods such as pine and spruce, but it is
found in all woods, and it sticks to the walls
of the chimney). Some fires might have been
caused by carelessly putting a fire too close to
a shelter. Maybe they were due to the improper
storage of flammable material. There are many
possibilities, but the bottom line is that it is
just as important to know how to prevent and
put a fire out as it is to start one.
CAUSE AND EFFECT

Fire is one of the most destructive forces of
nature. Whether caused by lightning, molten
lava or a careless match, once started—and
if not controlled quickly—fire will destroy
everything in its path.
It doesn’t take much to ignite dry materials
on the forest floor or dry grass in a field. Once
you add man-made materials to the mix,
all bets are off. Common man-made items
include tents, backpacks, clothing, gun cases
and much more of what we use every day.
Many are made from a variety of synthetic
fibers such as nylon and polyester, which
ignite very quickly. These materials not only
burn, they also turn into molten liquid and
can ignite other materials when they drip
onto them. You can imagine what this will do
in a home, vehicle or other structure.
According to Mark Lemay of the Goffstown,
New Hampshire, Fire Department, how fast

› Right: This firefighter training class is covering how to
attack a flammable gas fire that could happen with a natu-
ral gas stove or propane grill. (Photo: Hayley O’Brien/New
Hampshire Fire Academy)
STAY SAFE
AROUND
A FIRE
Ways of preventing a fire and ways of dealing with one should be
part of your everyday life. However, sadly, too many times, it is not.
Here are my top seven suggestions for being safe around fire:
a fire grows depends upon the material. The older the structure, the quicker it usually burns.
Plan Ahead: Have a plan in place that everyone in your family or
Newer structures made with more-fire-retardant materials tend to burn slower. Man-made
group knows about. Practice this plan over and over, because it
materials, such as wood paneling (which is found in many older homes and contains a great
could save your life. Don’t be the “tough guy” and battle the flames
deal of glue), burn quickly and hot.
if you don’t have to. But if you do, make proper practices and
Shelters made from logs, which are dried wood, burn quickly after they’re lit. The same reason
equipment part of the plan as well.
you want dry wood for your wood stove makes a log cabin a tinderbox. Just as in a wood stove,
Communications: Fire is nothing to mess with. If possible, call for
the dry wood burns long and hot.
help. Keep a fully charged cell phone and a two-way radio handy.
No matter the cause, man-made or natural, the result is always bad. Not only might you be
Most local, state and federal agencies monitor emergency radio
affected by an uncontrolled fire, so could your neighbors.
frequencies, so keep a list of those frequencies on hand and know
how to adjust the radio accordingly. If your cell phone doesn’t work,
use the radio. AN OUNCE OF PREVENTION IS TRULY
Tools: The tools most associated with firefighters are the axe and WORTH A POUND OF CURE. USE COMMON
the shovel. Both of these tools should be part of your gear. I carry
both an axe and an entrenching tool when camping. The axe is
SENSE WHEN DEALING WITH FIRE ...
used to remove combustible debris (small trees and the like) or ALWAYS HAVE A PLAN IN PLACE IN CASE
to open a locked or jammed door. The entrenching tool is used to SOMETHING DOES HAPPEN.
move dirt and sand.
Water: You can never have enough water. Having access to water,
whether with a hose or bucket, could save the day if applied early
enough. In a wilderness situation, you might not have that luxury.
In those cases, I try to gather water in 5-gallon containers and keep
them close by.
Sand: Nobody expects you to lug a bucket of sand with you, but
you can easily carry an empty bucket or make a container that will
hold sand when you get to your location. In the worst case, make a
pile of sand nearby.
Fire Extinguisher: Whether in your home or cabin, keep at least
one fully charged fire extinguisher within reach—but away from
potential fire locations. I happen to have two (it is better to be
safe than sorry).
Smoke Detectors: Most fires seem to happen at night, when
everyone is asleep. Most deaths associated with fires happen
because of smoke inhalation. Properly working, battery-operated
smoke detectors should be in place in every shelter. Even if it is
too late to save the structure, at least you and your family have a
chance to escape. Fire detectors should be changed every 10 years,
and batteries should be changed every six months. ‹ A motor vehicle fire can involve multiple types of combustible or explosive materials, as well
as toxic smoke. This situation calls for the right equipment and training.

› Near and far
right: Professional
firefighters train
to fight a wide
variety of fires,
such as this simu-
lated aircraft fire.
Similar challenges
could be in play in
vehicle and large
grease fires. (Photo:
Hayley O’Brien/
New Hampshire
Fire Academy)
A quick look at recent wildfire activity in the

Western states shows how many people have
been affected by the careless actions of others.
Many structures and lives have been lost, and
futures have been changed forever. The eco-
nomic loss from 2018’s wildfires in California,
alone, could top $400 billion. In addition,
about 8.8 million acres, many with valuable
natural resources, were lost to wildfires in 2018.
Ninety percent of the time, these fires were
started by the careless actions of people not
showing proper respect for fire.
PREVENTION
The best way, by far, to deal with fire-related
incidents is to avoid them in the first place.
Fire is essential for our way of life, but it needs
to be treated with respect, because it has the
power to harm, as well as help. As with most
things that have to do with survival, fire needs
to be handled with common sense. You would
not handle a firearm without following safety
rules (I hope), so it follows that you should
not treat fire any differently.
Whether your shelter is your own home, a
cabin in the woods or a tent, fire is something
you need in order to survive. I heat my home
with a pellet stove, and many people I know
have wood stoves. When properly used, both
are safe, efficient ways to keep a shelter warm.
In both cases, the fire is contained. Neverthe-
less, there is always the danger of something
going wrong: The stove might not be properly
cleaned. It could be too close to flammable
‹ Left: Wildland objects, such as paper or window curtains. It
firefighters carry
could be too close to a wall, or it might not
shovels and other
tools to scrape com- have the proper fireproof backing. The chimney
bustible material
might be faulty or clogged with creosote.
out of the path of
advancing fires to As you can see, there is plenty to think about
deny them access
before you start a fire in your home. Here,
to fuel. This is one
piece of equipment in New Hampshire, there have been recent
you should always
reports of fires being started from sparks
have handy around
home and camp. coming from the chimneys of pellet stoves

‹ Left: A charcoal
stove, charcoal and
charcoal lighter
fluid are very popular
during the summer ...
and are very real dan-
gers if not handled
p p y
properly.
› Above: Always igniting tinder (dry leaves) that was too stoves and woodstoves) and open campfires are not the only dangers. Portable stoves,
have water handy
when you have an close to the house. Accidents happen, but as whether they use small propane cylinders or some other fuel, are also potentially dan-
active fire. These with all accidents, most can be avoided with gerous. When using these devices, all the same precautions you would use when burning
plastic 5-gallon con-
tainers are a great proper planning and execution. wood need to be followed.
way to store water Open fires at your campsite come with a list Whether it is in your home or at a campsite, always have handy a means of putting the fire
around base camp.
of potential safety issues. First and foremost, out quickly. In your home or cabin, a few fully charged fire extinguishers are always a good
make sure your fire area is clear of dry, flam- start (and are required by law in most places if you have a wood or pellet stove). The best
mable material such as leaves, twigs and dry extinguishers are the ones that have an A, B or C rating. These units are effective against trash/
grass. According to Lemay, the fire’s location wood/paper (A), liquids (B) and electrical equipment (C). At the campsite, a fire extinguisher
should have a 2- to 3-foot buffer around it that is not always feasible, so keep a bucket of sand or water close by.
› Tons of articles
have been written has been cleared of any flammable debris.
about how to start Never put your shelter too close to the fire or
fires. Classes such as
this one, taught by have a fire inside your shelter. Avoid making
Christopher Nyerges, your fire larger than you really need. Not only
are very popular.
But how many will a smaller fire conserve fuel, it will also be
articles are devoted much easier to control and extinguish when
to fire safety for the
prepper? (Photo: the time comes.
Christopher Nyerges) However, wood-burning devices (pellet
ADDITIONAL
INFORMATION
It is impossible to look at, or discuss, in one article every possible
scenario you might face when dealing with fire. For additional
information or even training, you should go to the professionals.
Local Fire Department: Whether they are paid professionals

or organized volunteers, the men and women here can provide a
wealth of information and should be your first point of contact.
State Fire Marshal: Every state is different, but a great deal of
information can be obtained from your state’s fire marshal office.
Federal agencies: The U.S. Forest Service, U.S. Fish & Wildlife
Service and the National Park Service offer numerous
programs and fact sheets.

FIREFIGHTING This will make the combustible material
With very good reason, firefighting is best left to the professionals or qualified volunteers— less likely to burn (this is not foolproof, but
highly trained and properly equipped men and women who can handle the situation quickly it is a start). Next, smother the fire, using
and efficiently. If your fire does get out of control, call 9-1-1, if possible, and then get away from sand or something else that’s inflammable,
the danger. While that is the best course of action and should be your first choice, there might be such as a water-soaked blanket. The sand or
times when that is impossible. Your only course of action might be to try to control the situation blanket will cut off the supply of oxygen the
the best you can. fire needs (again, this is not foolproof, but it
Fire needs two things to keep burning—fuel and oxygen. If you eliminate one of them, the fire should buy you some time). If you are using
will die. The critical factor is to act quickly: The longer the fire burns, the stronger and larger it a fire extinguisher, remember that you have
will become and the more damage it will do. a limited supply of fire retardant. Using short
At the first sign of something going wrong, douse the fire (wood, coal, paper, fabric) with water. bursts, aim the retardant at the base of the
› Near and far right:

Propane stoves are
a popular carry
item for preppers.
Although generally
very safe, they
need to be handled
with care.
› Below: As inno-
cent as this small
Solo Stove is, it can
still be a potential WHETHER CAUSED BY LIGHTNING, MOLTEN LAVA OR A CARELESS
danger. Always use
caution—and never MATCH, ONCE STARTED—AND IF NOT CONTROLLED QUICKLY—
take it into your
shelter. FIRE WILL DESTROY EVERYTHING IN ITS PATH.

A QUICK LOOK AT RECENT WILDFIRE ACTIVITY IN THE WESTERN
STATES SHOWS HOW MANY PEOPLE HAVE BEEN AFFECTED BY THE
CARELESS ACTIONS OF OTHERS.
fire. Shooting at the flames is a waste of time Try to just slide it off the heat and smother it with the lid of the pan, baking soda or even with a
and resources, because you need to stop the thoroughly wet towel (if you believe it will put the fire out before it can catch fire itself). Better
fire at its source: the fuel. yet: Use your fire extinguisher.
S O U R C E S
Within a shelter, a very common source of In the case of a propane stove, turn off or disconnect the propane cylinder from the stove. If it
fire emergencies is a stove or campfire. is not possible, follow the same instructions you would use for a grease fire. National Fire Protection
Association (NFPA)
A grease fire will spread very quickly, so you These are all stop-gap measures. If you are lucky, you will have stopped the problem from https://www.NFPA.org
need to attack it right away. Don’t douse a becoming a much larger one. At the very least, you will have slowed it down and given time for
National Park Service
grease fire with water! Water will cause an people to escape and for help to arrive. In some cases, the fire will grow so large so quickly that https://www.NPS.gov
explosion, push the burning grease to other there will be nothing you can do but escape its wrath.
U.S. Fish & Wildlife
areas and add a sudden burst of oxygen to The best way to avoid the danger of fire is not having an uncontrolled fire in the first place. An Service
the fire. Instead, safely remove the pan from ounce of prevention is truly worth a pound of cure. Use common sense when dealing with fire: https://www.FWS.gov
the heat source—but do not try to carry it to Don’t allow children or others who lack experience and maturity around a fire. Always have a U.S. Forest Service
another area. If you spill the burning grease, plan in place in case something does happen. https://www.FS.Fed.US
you could possibly make the situation worse. Fire can save lives, but it can take them away just as quickly. Treat it with respect.

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by DOOM AND BLOOM
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A
s an aging jarhead, I’ve always had an affinity for AR-platform rifles, because
they share similar fit and form, although clearly not the same function, as semi-
auto rifles. ARs, also known as “modern sporting rifles” (MSRs), are markedly
tamer than those we employed in the service. Still, fit and form in the context of
my service are familiar-feeling and, in a nutshell, comfortable.
While the AR’s fit and form are familiar to me, I also appreciate the system’s multipurpose
application. Contrary to what some might have you believe, AR-platform rifles certainly do make
exceptional hunting rifles, given appropriate calibers for the game pursued. In the interest of
sustenance, these MSRs certainly help fill my freezer. Truth be told, I buy very little meat, and
what goes in the freezer is about as organic as it gets.

IT’S TOUGH TO BEAT LIGHTWEIGHT,
ACCURATE AND DEPENDABLE.
BY KEVIN REESE

‹ Left: Precision shooting was easy, consid-
ering the BSF match-grade barrel and Lead
Star’s proprietary muzzle brake.
an AR and handgun of the same caliber

certainly makes sense, and if they use the
same magazine, even better.
Over the years, I enjoyed running scores
of 9mm carbine rifles. Not only are they
practical, ammo is inexpensive, and when it
comes to family, virtually anyone you deem
old enough to get on the trigger can handle
the ridiculously light recoil. Of course, they’re
a heck of a lot of fun to shoot, too, and AR
innovation has led to some truly jaw-dropping,
multitasking 9mm rigs.
Recently, I had the opportunity to test one such
rifle—the Lead Star Barrage. “Good-looking” is
an understatement. Lead Star’s offering is as
sexy a 9mm as I’ve seen and routinely turned
the heads of show walkers at last year’s NRA
Annual Meeting & Exhibits event, where I
› Near right: After

HOME DEFENSE: PROTECT WHAT shooting a 5-inch
YOU LOVE group at 300 yards
(bottom), the author
ARs also make great recreational and com- turned his attention
petitive shooting rigs. Millions of hardworking to the 400-yard tar-
get (top) and rocked
folks hit ranges, woods and rural expanses it with three out of
to plink, train and compete in steel, multi- five shots.
gun, three-gun, long-range and other match

shoots. Of course, countless AR owners count
another purpose as the system’s most critical
application: home defense. And, considering
Department of Justice reports of more than › Far right: The
Barrage delivered
three million home break-ins annually, with a 5-inch group
more than one million being those pesky, at 300 yards in a
half-circle rounded
violent home invasions, tools to protect what to the left.
you love are more important than ever.
ARs make phenomenal home defense rifles
and, given the option, they are better choices
to engage a threat at distance. I would much
rather protect from across a room than up
close and personal, and an AR affords the
opportunity for more-accurate shooting, as
well as higher-capacity magazines than are
often used in handguns—a great benefit when
your agenda is to use whatever is required to
stop a threat. A true 1x-magnification optic,
such as a red-dot or reflex sight, is also helpful
for quick target acquisition, even in low light.
While ARs are great for home defense, 9mm
carbine types are even better. 9mm hand-
guns are, perhaps, the most popular caliber › Right: Shooting
Hornady 115-grain
currently used for personal and home defense. FMJ ammo hand-
The round offers plenty of thug-stopping loaded by good friend
Mike Burks resulted
energy and is exceptionally inexpensive. in an average muzzle
When it comes to home defense, having velocity of 1,282 fps.

first ran into Lead Star owner Derek Hicks. His Aesthetically, this Barrage’s most notable feature is its CNC-machined 7075-T6 billet alumi-
obsession with building unique, racy AR “Ferraris” num receiver set anodized in a rich, satin-blue finish. Lead Star’s aggressively styled upper and
that run as good as they look is evident, even lower receivers are not only skeletonized to reduce weight, their truss design actually increases
a bit infectious. To me, this firearm was an strength. The satin-blue finish contrasts sharply with the Barrage’s black features and matches
instant must-have ... or at least a must-test the carbon-fiber weave of the BSF barrel perfectly (more on the barrel in a bit). Lead Star’s
in the field. proprietary 7075-T6 aluminum is anodized to match.
And so I did. Here’s what I found. True to Lead Star’s zero-defects focus on machining and assembly, the Barrage doesn’t show
any signs of fit or form shortcuts. The Barrage PCC9 I worked with boasted a 15-inch, preci-
THE WALKAROUND: FIT AND sion-machined, matte-black, skeletonized 7075-T6 aluminum handguard, a Magpul MOE-K2+
FORM rubber overmolded pistol grip and a Lead Star Ravage aluminum minimalist-style stock with
Derek’s approach to AR design is multi- adjustable length of pull. (As a note here: Since my testing, it appears the Barrage stock sys-
pronged, but with a singular goal: to be the tem has been changed to a Mission First Tactical Battlelink Minimalist model with six-position
premier producer of lightweight, premium-per- adjustment—one of my favorites in the lightweight arena.)
forming, precision shooting systems. To that
end, Lead Star Arms offers similarly designed, A LOOK UNDER THE HOOD: FUNCTION (PART I)
traditionally chambered AR-15s, as well as 9mm Similar to the Lead Star’s focus on top-shelf fit and form features, function components
carbine models. The model I tested was the are equally impressive. A look “under the hood” of this particular Barrage revealed a BSF car-
Lead Star Arms Barrage PCC9 9mm Carbine. bon-jacketed, match-grade, 16-inch barrel with a 1:10 twist. To date, I’ve tested four precision
Like every other rifle Derek and company AR-platform rifles: three 6.5 Creedmoors and a .224 Valkyrie—all with BSF barrels—and have
produces, this Barrage is quite a sexy, light- averaged ¼ MOA groupings at 100 yards. All four also grouped ½ to 1 MOA at 1,000 yards. In
weight beast. Even better, while it certainly fact, the .224 Valkyrie delivered 1 MOA performance at 1,200 yards.
makes for a fine race gun, as a 9mm carbine ‹ Even with the
with an included 33-round magazine that BSF’s most notable feature is the carbon-fiber weave; on this Barrage, it is woven in blue bipod and squeeze
bag, the 33-round
Dianne Feinstein would be proud of (or not), it and black to match the receiver set. The carbon-fiber jacketing is also ported consistently mag bottomed out
definitely fits the home defense bill too. around the barrel and throughout its length for rapid cooling. Unlike wrapped carbon-fiber on the bench.
ARS MAKE PHENOMENAL HOME DEFENSE RIFLES AND, GIVEN THE OPTION,
THEY ARE BETTER CHOICES TO ENGAGE A THREAT AT DISTANCE.

‹ Left: Up close or
reaching out, the Lead
Star Barrage was a
rock star at the range.
› Near right: A little

concentration and
great PCC9 perfor-
mance resulted in
this ½-inch (sub-
MOA) group at 50
yards.
barrels, BSF’s carbon jacket only touches softens recoil and helps ensure the BCG stops just behind the bolt catch; of course, the Barrage’s ‹ Above: A good
reflex sight is a great
the barrel at specific installation points blow-back gas system also plays a major role here. low-light optic solu-
and is installed under tension, resulting in The Barrage also features a single-stage Hiperfire Hipertouch Eclipse trigger with robust adjust- tion for virtually any
home-defense rifle.
increased barrel stiffening as it warms. Of ability and an ultra-comfortable Hipershoe finger pad. Hiperfire’s triggers have built a reputation
course, "warming" is darned near figurative, for crisp breaks, short overtravel and positive resets. Together, the Hiperfire trigger and other
because the vents and space between the function-related components had me chomping at the bit for a little range time.
barrel and carbon-fiber jacketing actually
provide airfoil-type cooling. In previous test- TRIGGERED: FUNCTION (PART II)
ing, I have had no problem grabbing the BSF Not long after receiving the Barrage, I headed to Triple C Shooting Range, a shooting mecca
barrel after back-to-back magazine dumps. nestled in the center of a 3,000-acre working Texas ranch just south of Fort Worth. Triple C’s
For reliable cycling, the Barrage utilizes a many outdoor pistol and carbine bays, obstacles and zeroing lanes, as well as numerous mid-
proprietary bolt carrier group complete with and long-range shooting lanes from 300 to 2,000 yards, make it the perfect location for all of
last-round-bolt-hold-open functionality, much my firearm testing.
like the standard bolt-function of an AR-15 Once at Triple C, I set up at the zeroing range and mounted a Pinnacle 5-30x50 first focal plane
BCG. The bolt, itself, is constructed of 8620 riflescope. Sure, it seems a bit much on a 9mm carbine, but when it comes to precision shooting, I
steel and includes a standard 5.56 ejector want my point of aim ridiculously clear and close.
and improved firing pin. On the other end of For stability, I also installed an Accu-Tac BR-4 Gen 2 bipod and used a squeeze bag under the
cycling lies Lead Star’s TACCOM 3-Stage buffer stock. As is the case for all my firearms testing, group results and overall zeroing my setup is simple:
system. Per Lead Star, the buffer assembly It’s nothing more than the optic, rifle, bipod and squeeze bag. My results are easily duplicated by

with the Lead Star Barrage PCC9 was down- ‹ Left: The Barrage
is packed with pre-
right blissful. Even on this sub-6-pound rig, mium features such
recoil was negligible, and it didn’t take long as this ridiculously
crisp Hiperfire
to establish zero. Eclipse trigger.
Once zeroed, I used a Magneto Speed Gen 3
chronograph to test muzzle velocity and energy,
which averaged 1,282 fps and 420 ft-lb of energy.
Soon after, I set about seeing what kind
of group the BSF barrel and Mike’s ammo
would deliver. While I shot several sub-1-inch
groups at 50 yards, my best performance was
a sub-½-inch three-shot group—sub-1 MOA
performance at a respectable distance from a
9mm! Of course, with good ammo, I’ve come
to expect these types of results from top-shelf
barrels such as BSF.
Even better, the following weekend, I took the
Barrage to Triple C’s mid-range lanes that fea-
ture targets ranging from 300 to 1,000 yards.
For longer-range shots, Burks hand-loaded
seasoned shooters employing the same equipment. As a final point of interest here, my ammo- 115-grain +P. The hotter loads, along with the
of-choice for testing was Hornady 115-grain FMJs handloaded by my good friend, Mike Burks. He BSF match-grade barrel, produced a 5-inch
offered, so who was I to refuse? group at 300 yards. Not one to quit, I went a
The ZRO Delta M4 DLOC scope base and optic lined up incredibly well for the stock height, and I just bit farther to engage a 12-inch steel gong
had no trouble establishing both sight alignment and sight picture. After checking and adjusting at 400 yards ... and scored hits with three out
for my natural point of aim, I slowed my breathing, relaxed on the stock, reached my natural of five shots! All told, I fired more than 800
respiratory pause and squeezed the trigger. As shooting pertains to 9mm carbines, my first experience rounds with zero misfeeds throughout testing,
PER LEAD STAR, THE BUFFER ASSEMBLY SOFTENS RECOIL AND

HELPS ENSURE THE BCG STOPS JUST BEHIND THE BOLT CATCH; OF
COURSE, THE BARRAGE’S BLOW-BACK GAS SYSTEM ALSO PLAYS A
MAJOR ROLE HERE.
‹ Left: A skeleton-
ized receiver set,
ergonomic controls
and ultra-light recoil
make the Barrage
comfortable to carry
and easy to shoot.

CONTRARY TO WHAT SOME MIGHT HAVE YOU BELIEVE, AR-
PLATFORM RIFLES CERTAINLY DO MAKE EXCEPTIONAL HUNTING
RIFLES, GIVEN APPROPRIATE CALIBERS FOR THE GAME PURSUED.
‹ The Barrage
the author tested
came with a BSF
carbon-jacketed,
match-grade,
16-inch barrel that
complemented the
satin-blue receiver
quite nicely.
S O U R C E S
Lead Star
(803) 995-8843
www.LeadStarArms.com
Accu-Tac
(714) 980-1306
www.Accu-Tac.com
BSF Barrels
(262) 725-7727
www.BSFBarrels.com
Hiperfire
(651) 762-2800
www.Hiperfire.com
of five shots! All told, I fired more than 800 Barrage retails for a respectable $1,499.99. This price includes its ultralight 416R stainless QPQ
Hornady
rounds with zero misfeeds throughout testing, 16-inch, 1:10 twist barrel—quite a deal, considering the Barrage’s solid performance, precision (800) 338-3220
training and recreational range time. The machining, innovation and overall reliability. www.Hornady.com
Barrage’s reliability is the best I’ve experienced Even so, I’m always on the lookout for those pesky cons. The problem with this is that there MagnetoSpeed
to date from a 9mm carbine rifle. really aren’t any to speak of. Hands down, the Barrage is the finest PCC9 carbine I’ve had the (512) 284-8161
https://MagnetoSpeed.com
privilege of running. My complaints are essentially subjective or to be expected when you shoot
Magpul
A BARRAGE OF FINAL SHOTS hundreds and hundreds of rounds without checking components. (877) 462-4785
Recreational trigger time with the Lead Star The Barrage included the 33-round Glock-compatible magazine; however, I found it a bit excessive www.Magpul.com
Arms Barrage was fun and far exceeded my for regular testing (it’s perfect for home defense, recreational shooting, etc.). Even with a bipod and Mission First Tactical
expectations, further underscoring my belief that squeeze bag, I had to work a little to keep the magazine from bottoming out on the shooting bench. (267) 704-0001
www.MissionFirstTactical.com
a 9mm carbine, in my opinion, remains a solid More than once, I switched to shorter magazines to achieve a lower, more stable shooting profile. Of
Sightmark
home defense option. If you choose to keep one course, this magazine really is purely subjective. I do like the magazine for home defense, as well as (817) 225-0310
within reach for such a purpose, consider iron recreational shooting, but for my precision work, I made the move to a shorter mag. www.Sightmark.com
sights or, again, a reflex or red-dot optic designed Near the end of my testing—again, after 800 rounds or so—I noticed the handguard had Triple C Shooting Range
for quick, low-light target acquisition. Through- rotated about 1/8 inch. The issue was remedied immediately by loosening the two Allen head (817) 727-8411
www.TripleCRange.com
out testing, the Barrage PCC9 carbine became mounting screws a tad more to free up the handguard and then rotating it back into its original
ZRODelta
my go-to home defense firearm. position and tightening the screws. The complete repair took under two minutes; and, to be (828) 874-8560
In our get-what-you-pay-for world, I’ve honest, this is a common occurrence in modern sporting rifles. Dealing with it was a good https://ZRODelta.com
become a huge fan of Lead Star Arms. The overall maintenance reminder.

PREPARE YOUR PLAN LONG BEFORE THERE
IS FIGHTING IN THE STREETS.
BY BRIAN M. MORRIS
© GETTY IMAGES

› Near and far right: Members of the National
Guard try to maintain order outside the Super-
dome in New Orleans, Louisiana, as desperate
refugees driven from their homes by Hurricane
Katrina wait to be evacuated. Shots were fired,
and a near riot erupted as thousands who had
taken shelter there fought to board buses for
the Astrodome in Houston, Texas. The lack of
food, security and shelter can drive even the
most docile people to violence and antisocial
L
behavior.
ong gone are the days of peaceful

protests via which Americans
marched to exercise their civil
rights and have their voices heard.
Today, in this country and else-
where, the idea of peaceful civil discourse is
WHETHER YOU ARE A PROTESTOR,
becoming more and more a thing of the past. COUNTERPROTESTOR, MEMBER OF LAW
The unfortunate truth is that we live in an in- ENFORCEMENT, FIRST RESPONDER OR
creasingly confrontational and violent world › Below: Protest- JUST AN INNOCENT BYSTANDER CAUGHT
where physical conflict is more common in ers argue near a
business that was AT THE WRONG PLACE AND TIME, YOU RUN
large protests and organized demonstrations.
It doesn’t really matter what side of the
looted and burned
by rioters after the fu-
THE RISK OF INVOLVEMENT IN A VIOLENT
protest you're on these days. Whether you are
neral of Freddie Gray
on April 29, 2015, in
CONFRONTATION.
a protestor, counterprotestor, member of law Baltimore, Maryland.
According to his
enforcement, first responder or just an innocent attorney, Gray died public political gatherings or social protests in America today might be far from civil.
bystander caught at the wrong place and time, from a severe spinal
cord injury while
you run the risk of involvement in a violent con- in police custody a IDENTIFYING POSSIBLE THREATS
frontation. There are many reasons for this; but, week after being ar- My intent with this article is to discuss recognizing potential hazards and protecting yourself from
rested for possessing
regardless of the situation, you can bet that most a switchblade knife. being caught up in this violence, but we first need to think a bit about understanding human nature. I
© GETTY IMAGES © GETTY IMAGES

think that is necessary, because unless you are
a recluse and have little to no human interac-
tion each day, you are most likely going to find
yourself in situations where you are surrounded
by large numbers of people from diverse walks
of life. If you don’t make a concerted effort to
understand what makes people, in general,
and groups, in particular, tick, you are placing
yourself—and those who depend on you to keep
them safe—in jeopardy.
Once again, your situational awareness (SA)
skills are key in efforts to protect yourself from
the inherent dangers associated with large
crowds of people, whether they’re totally peace-
ful or angry and violent. Developing the skills to
recognize the subtle and progressive cues that
indicate that a peaceful assembly might devolve
into a mob that’s ready to explode can provide
you with the advance warning needed to keep
you and yours safe.
© GETTY IMAGES
PRELUDE TO DANGEROUS
SITUATIONS feelings for government, the authorities and anyone not living in the fringe zone range from mistrust ‹ Above: These dem-
onstrators are among
Look to almost any urban area across the United to outright contempt. more than 10 arrested
States today, and you will see a significant Those living in the fringe zone usually feel they are disadvantaged and oppressed; and, right or by police during a civil
disobedience action
number of people living in what I call the “fringe wrong, they often feel they are being denied advantages due to a factor they can’t control or that on August 10, 2015, in
zone.” These are the people who live generally won’t change. These factors might include, but are not limited to, social class, income level, ethnicity, Ferguson, Missouri. St.
Louis County declared
at or below the poverty line and/or whose nationality, political or social stance, or religious affiliation. a state of emergency
following a night of
unrest in Ferguson after
a teenager was charged
with shooting at police
officers.
‹ Left: A protestor
wearing a gas mask
rides a bicycle in
front of a police
line in Baltimore,
Maryland, as looting
and rioting break out
on the day of Freddie
Gray’s funeral.
Gray died in police
custody after being
arrested for carrying
a switchblade knife.

‹ A state trooper
keeps his shotgun
trained on protest-
ers in Ferguson,
Missouri, during a
demonstration the
day after violent
protests and looting
erupted in the city.
Missouri Governor
Jay Nixon deployed
2,200 National
Guard troops to pre- ‹ Below: Protestors shut
vent more violence, down Highway 94 on
arson and looting. June 16, 2017, in St. Paul,
Minnesota. Demon-
strations erupted in
Minnesota after Officer
Jeronimo Yanez was
acquitted on all counts
in the shooting death
of Philando Castile.
Considering that
some drivers have
proceeded through
such blockades, use
extra caution around
demonstrations that
interfere with motor
© GETTY IMAGES vehicle traffic.
› Near right: A store

burns after rioting
and looting break
out after protests in
Baltimore, Maryland.
Now, if we are going to be honest, these per-

ceptions are not always unfounded. In fact, you
don’t need to look back very far in world or U. S.
history to see examples that range from subtle
discrimination all the way to attempts at the
complete extermination of entire races of people.
The situation becomes additionally problematic
when, for whatever reason, you have a scenario
where later generations have not made significant
progress over earlier ones.
Over time, the level of trust between those
living inside and those outside the fringe zone
erodes until it disappears and makes virtually all ‹ Left: If you find
interaction strained and difficult, at best. Because yourself caught in
the midst of a riot,
trust is an important factor in positive peaceful you must assume
communication and relationships, its loss is a that depending on
your actions, your
serious impediment to constructive interaction look or simply your
between these groups. location, the fog of
chaos could easily
Members of fringe zone groups are likely to result in your being
consider all members of what they consider to targeted by police
trying to control the
© GETTY IMAGES be non-fringe zone groups guilty of committing situation.

› Right: Baltimore, Maryland, riot police keep
looters and rioters away from a firebombed
store to allow firefighters to deal with the fire.
the deeds they attribute to members of that

group. Conversely, those outside the zone often
have unfavorable opinions of those living in
the zone. In short, this is called “stereotyping,”
and it is an important part of the problem.
In situations such as this, if you could be identi-
fied as a member of a non-fringe zone group
that committed the deeds attributed to that
group, your best defense is to stay away from
areas dominated by members of the fringe
zone group when there are demonstrations or
civil unrest in those areas.
TODAY, IN THIS COUNTRY AND
For example, if those who live in the fringe
zone feel that agencies of the government treat ELSEWHERE, THE IDEA OF PEACEFUL CIVIL
them unfairly and cannot be trusted, you can DISCOURSE IS BECOMING MORE AND
‹ Below: Some sections
expect friction—and possibly violence—if a situ-
MORE A THING OF THE PAST. of many large U.S.
ation arises involving a fringe zone citizen being urban areas harbor
concentrations of
acted upon by one of these agencies, regardless Aside from avoiding large politically or socially charged gatherings, it is important to understand that
poverty, homelessness,
of the actual circumstances. Obviously, these it doesn’t take a lot to make people quickly escalate disagreements into violence, especially if those unemployment, crime
and drugs. These are
situations and their paths to violence are often rioting perceive that they lack any of the four basic human needs listed below. Remember that once
environments that can
complicated, but this basic example should again, facts are not important here; only the perceptions of the protestors and the emotions they elicit, induce violent conflicts
and rioting in the streets
remind you of specific situations with which you because it is ultimately their feelings that will trigger how they act.
when a trigger event
are more familiar. The four basic human needs include: occurs.
EMOTIONS CAN RULE THE DAY © GETTY IMAGES
You must remember that when it comes to

acting on feelings and emotions, facts are often
irrelevant to the person feeling the emotion. In
the above scenario, the protestors’ feelings will
guide their actions because of their perception of
the event; and their lack of trust prevents them
from considering information that is presented
as fact. This is another scenario where it is best to
stay away from locations where opposing groups
will face off to “debate” this type of matter.
The key is to use your understanding of human
nature as it relates to the events that are hap-
pening around you. In this way, you can mitigate
the chances of unwittingly adding yourself to
the target list of either side of a confrontation.
We’ve all been carried away by emotions to
some degree, so this isn’t a new concept. What
we need to be mindful of is that emotion can
move people in stressful situations to do harm
to others.
Remember: It’s all about perception. If the
rioters think you are not one of them, or you
support what they are rioting against, you will
show up on their radar as someone to attack.
On the other hand, depending on your actions,
appearance or simply your location, you could
easily be targeted by those on the counter-rioter
or law enforcement sides.

› Below: Thousands • Sustenance: Any time there are not sufficient to do, going where they want to go and believing in what they choose to believe in.
marched through the
streets of New York quantities of food and water available to either Respect, per se, isn’t on the list, but it can fall under “security,” especially when someone feels disre-
City in July 2016 after grow, collect or purchase at affordable prices; spected. We’ve all seen what can happen when a person feels they have been disrespected, especially
videos were released
showing two separate • Shelter: Any scenario in which people cannot when it happens in the presence of family, friends or peers. This can trigger a significant emotional
incidences of police find adequate housing or living space that can response, whether it’s on a personal or even an institutional level.
actions that ended
with the shooting and provide a sense of safety and shelter from the At the end of the day, the one tool you have that is better than any gas mask or riot protective gear is
killing of two black outside world; your situational awareness. Unfortunately, it is not something you are born with. As humans, we are
men. It is estimated
that there were 640 • Security: When people lack the sense that either taught SA or we learn it through our experiences. When and if we learn SA is dependent on the
protests, rallies and they can protect and provide for themselves and individual and their environment. Some people do not develop their SA until far later in life. Some, out
other public demon-
strations that attracted their family; and of sheer necessity, are forced to learn SA at an early age.
more than 640,000 • Freedom: When people perceive that they are I will never forget the children I have met in almost every war zone I have been to. It was not unusual
people in New York
City—just in 2017. limited or forbidden from doing what they want to see children taking risks that would be unheard of in America. I once witnessed a 6-year-old girl
© GETTY IMAGES

› Near left: Members
of the National
Socialist Movement,
one of the largest
neo-Nazi groups in
the United States,
hold a swastika
burning after a
rally on April 21,
2018, in Draketown,
Georgia. Hundreds of
police officers were
deployed to prevent
clashes between this
group and opposi-
tion protestors.
carrying her 1-year-old brother on her hip as she ‹ Above, left: Police
push counter-pro-
navigated through a known minefield in order testers back after the
to fetch some firewood for her village. These “America First” group
rally against illegal
children learned at an incredibly young age immigration in Lagu-
how to recognize and avoid or circumvent the na Beach, California,
on August 20, 2017.
threats they were faced with. Their SA develops The presence of horse
far faster than a child of the same age who has patrol officers intro-
duces the potential
lived a sheltered life with no real need for, or for another “behavior
consequence for lacking, situational awareness. wildcard,” depending
on how the horses are
Rioting, civil unrest and violent protests are treated and respond
extremely fluid situations that can sometimes to the actions of the
participants.
be difficult to see coming and could potentially
happen at any time and any place. Some of the
lessons I learned from my first team sergeant
after joining the Special Forces are as true today
as they were then. He told me four things to
© GETTY IMAGES
› Above: Riot police keep a watch on demonstrators during a protest march from the Minnesota
state capital to the Xcel Energy Center in St. Paul, Minnesota, before the start of the Republican
National Convention (September 1, 2008). Confrontations over political opinions can often lead to
conflict and mayhem.
never forget if I wanted to make it out of my newly chosen career path alive:
• Know your operational environment.
• Be situationally aware.
• Keep your head on a swivel.
• Try not to look suspicious; it draws fire.
Building on the experience that his advice helped me gain, I have made the following observations:
• The more you research and understand the environment you live and work in, the safer you will be.
© GETTY IMAGES
• The best time to plan for an emergency is ahead of time, not when the emergency is happening.
• Understanding the views and concepts of the local populace toward the authorities, as well as the
› Above: A demonstrator burns an American flag during a protest on
November 25, 2015, in New York City one day after a grand jury decision views of the authorities toward the locals, is the first step in protecting yourself. This knowledge can
not to prosecute a white police officer for killing an unarmed black teen keep you from falling victim to a mob-driven attack or becoming a victim of unfair treatment or abuse
in Ferguson, Missouri. Even though almost 1,000 miles separates the two
cities, events in one location had an effect on the streets of the other. at the hands of the local authorities.

LOUNGING IN THE TREES WITH BYER OF
MAINE’S MOSKITO KAKOON
BY REUBEN BOLIEU

B
yer of Maine got started in the Patrick Rollins. He used it on a few trips, and
late 1800s in Bangor, Maine. eventually, I had to try it for myself.
It first manufactured slippers This model was basically the Traveller Lite
and then metal and wood- Hammock model with a built-in bug net.
frame camp furniture. It weighs 16 ounces, and the bug net is one
The company was instrumental in supplying less thing I have to take care of. It wasn’t the
folding cots to the U.S. military during World fanciest hammock out there, but it was light
War II and the Korean War. It also sewed a large and easy to set up.
number of canvas products in support of the Moving forward to Byer’s next-generation
war efforts, but in the 1950s, it refocused on version of the Moskito, there is the Moskito
civilian knapsacks and duffle bags. It continued Kakoon Hammock, which combines a strong,
to manufacture traditional wood-frame camp lightweight camping hammock with fine
furniture throughout this time. mesh netting to create a unique, insect-free
Changes in the American marketplace have hammock. This new design is 8 inches longer
transformed Byer of Maine from a manufactur- than the previous model and weighs fewer
ing company to an enterprise that now sources than 22 ounces. It features triple-stitched
and distributes products from around the seams and reinforced hanging points,
world, including Amazonas (a brand of tradi- increasing the weight limit from 250 to 275
tional Brazilian hammocks and other products pounds. The no-see-em bug netting closes
that I’ve been using for about 15 years). with a double zipper and has reinforced netting
support points. It also features two storage
MOSKITO KAKOON HAMMOCK pockets for personal items.
About eight years ago, Byer released a model The new, lightweight, two-piece spreader
called the Moskito Hammock. (I know; the bars are removable, making the hammock
spelling seems a little off, but that is what more compact than previous models and
it is called!). I was first introduced to it by allowing the parachute material hammock
Randall’s Adventure & Training instructor to be flipped over and used conventionally—
THE MICROROPE FEATURES STRONG

POLYESTER ROPES AND TREE-FRIENDLY
POLYESTER STRAPS WITH TWO ADJUSTABLE
ALUMINUM SLIDES TO TAKE UP THE SLACK
BETWEEN FIXED HANGING POINTS.
‹ Above: The author’s morning view from the Byer of Maine Moskito Kakoon Hammock in
Nagsasa Cove in the Philippines

› Right: The New
without sleeping under the netting. As a result,
Moskito Ka-
the stuff sack is smaller and easier to carry in a koon Hammock
attachment point
backpack. The new MicroRope hanging system
is a simple loop,
can be added to rig the hammock between compared to the
multi-strands the
trees without causing damage to them.
older models used.
For this review, Byer was kind enough to send The MicroRope is
easily adjusted.
me its newest rain fly for my trip to the jungle
in the Philippines.
PUTTING THE HAMMOCK TO THE

TEST
I went to Zambales, a province on the west
coast of Luzon, the country’s largest island. I saw
some photos of these quaint coves off Capones
Island and had to experience the area for myself.
After a five-hour bus ride, I hired a boat to take
me there and drop me off with food and supplies
for a few days of camping and cooking.
I don’t believe in going on a trip with new gear
that has not first been set up and tried out.
However, this time, I returned from Australia
on a Saturday and flew out to Asia on Sunday.
I had just enough time to open the box from
Byer, open the individual packages, pack my
suitcase and adventure gear and then head © GETTY IMAGES
back out. I had to trust that what Byer sent me

was going to work as shelter in a camping or
› Below: The
survival setting (uber-important!). colorful MicroRope
wrapped around
Weight wasn’t too much of an issue, because
a tree and put
I was getting dropped off by boat and walking through the loop
to secure it. This is
a little to set up my jungle beach camp. Once I
the lighter version,
picked the campsite area and made sure it was compared to the
Micro Strap.
free of dead trees, hanging limbs, critter nests
‹ Left: The hammock

attachment point
loop with the Micro-
Rope attached via
the metal slider bar
is a secure, strong
way to enjoy the
setup.

‹ Far left: The
spreader bars are
easy to put together
and keep the bug net
away from the user.
They come apart
easily for better
storage.
‹ Near left: The

corner pockets of the
tarp conveniently
store the attached
guy lines. This
eliminates tangles
and keeps them
organized.
THENEWBYEROFMAINEAMAZONASSLEEPSYSTEMISANEAR-COMPLETE
SETUPTHAT LACKSONLYASLEEPINGPADANDBLANKETCOVER. ‹ Below: Two Byer
of Maine Amazonas
and dwellings, as well as near a water source and had access to a decent supply of firewood, it little while to get familiar with it. I had to wrap hammocks—the new
Moskito Kakoon
was time to hang! the rope around the tree and bring it through Hammock (left) and
Wind near the beach is another issue to be concerned with. However, in this environment, it the loop. Then, there was an adjustable metal the author’s old Trav-
eller Lite Hammock
was welcomed. First, I had to attach the MicroRope to a tree at the approximate height I felt was slider to fine-tune the whole setup. (right), in Zambales,
needed. It was my first time using Byer’s hanging system, so as simple as it was, it still took me a The Moskito Kakoon Hammock was next to Philippines

Moskito Kakoon
Hammock
• Dimensions: 116x56 inches
• Weight: 22 ounces
• Approximate hanging point: 9 to 10 feet
• Capacity: 275 pounds
• Color: Spruce green
MSRP: $59.95
MicroRope
• Length: 100 inches
• Weight: 9.2 ounces
• Capacity: 330 pounds
• Color: Red/blue
MSRP: $17.95
Traveller Rain Fly

• Dimensions: 132x108 inches
• Color: Teal
MSRP: $79.95
set up. The easiest way was to open the stuff

bag it comes in, find the end piece where it
attaches and put the metal slider of the Micro-
Rope through it. Then, I just walked to the other
tree, with the MicroRope already attached, and
repeated the process of attaching the rope
› Top: The cat-cut
to the hammock.
tarp shape offers
It was then time to fine-tune the height plenty of venti-
lation and good
and level of hang that an Amazonas
coverage from sun
hammock requires. These are Brazilian-style and rain.
‹ Above: The Trav-

eller Rain Fly has
reinforcements on all
guy line attachment
points. There is a lot
of coverage with this
tarp.
‹ Left: Three loops

keep the bug net sus-
pended from a cord.
The spreader bars
are a great addition
that the older Moskito
Hammock didn’t
have.

... THE MOSKITO KAKOON HAMMOCK ... COMBINES A STRONG,
LIGHTWEIGHT CAMPING HAMMOCK WITH FINE MESH NETTING TO
CREATE A UNIQUE, INSECT-FREE HAMMOCK.
hammocks that need to hang like a banana. hammock from trees without tools or causing damages to the tree. The MicroRope features ‹ Above, left: The
complete Moskito
When you lie in them diagonally, the result is strong polyester ropes and tree-friendly polyester straps with two adjustable aluminum slides Kakoon Hammock
a straight, flat position. to take up the slack between fixed hanging points. with MicroRope and
Traveller Rain Fly—
The mosquito net is built in and has three There are two versions of this system. I chose to use the MicroRope, because it was lighter (I the perfect bug-free
loops that need to be hoisted up with a always worry about weight). The other is the Micro Strap. It holds 440 pounds and weighs 14 system
supplied length of cord. The Moskito Kakoon ounces. Anyone who has ever climbed into a hammock knows how it can be a little worri-
has a better system for the net than the some—doubting the rope or knots. The MicroRope and Micro Strap take the guesswork out of ‹ Above, right: The
guy lines are brightly
older Moskito Hammock because of the two it and give everyone a more comfortable and confident feeling before committing themselves colored and highly
lightweight extension bars that fit into the net, to a hammock. reflective at night.
Here, the author
keeping it spread out wider and away from the attached them to
user. There are two small internal pockets to TRAVELLER RAIN FLY heavy coral, because
the stakes wouldn’t
stash items. However, using them makes the This is an updated take on Byer’s previous Amazonas Jungle Tent Tarp. Made from 210T ripstop stay firmly in the
netting come in closer, which isn’t the idea of polyester fabric and precision cut along its edges with secure stitching and reinforced corners, loose sand.
the net in the first place. the all-new Traveller Rain Fly weighs under 1.5 pounds. The hexagonal cat-cut design comes
The hammock was wide, unconstricting and with ample cord and adjusters, as well as aluminum stakes.
cool to the skin—perfect for the tropics! I have only used one type of tarp for the last 12 years: It’s from Integral Designs, which makes S O U R C E S
some of the lightest tarps on the market. It is made with silicone-impregnated 30D ripstop Byer of Maine
THE MICROROPE KIT nylon. Switching to the Traveller Rain Fly was a big step for me. First of all, “lightweight” is the (800) 338-0580
www.ByerofMaine.com
The MicroRope is the perfect accessory for last thing that comes to mind when I think of this tarp. However, it works perfectly well with
hanging Amazonas Traveller hammock mod- Byer’s products and covers the hammock completely. (If it doesn’t cover the entire hammock, ProForce Equipment, Inc.
(800) 259-5962
els, as they are called. This lightweight, rugged that means the hammock was set up too flat. As was already mentioned, Amazonas hammocks www.ProForceEquipment.com
hanging set provides all you need to hang a are supposed to be set up more like a banana to lie down in them diagonally.)

› Top right: The
Out of the package, stitching was perfect. It Traveller Ham-
didn’t appear as if I needed to use any liquid mock is shown set
up in the Amazon
seam-sealer on it, so I didn’t. I was thinking of rain forest during a
my heavier-than-usual pack weight at first, survival class. The
author used an
but I wasn’t doing much hiking, because I just external bug net
walked a little when I got off the small boat to with this setup.
find my camp area and then set it up.
Once I started to notice the features of the
Traveller Rain Fly, I looked at the weight of it
in a more appreciative way. The tarp comes
with the guy lines (cordage) attached to the
tarp corners in their own pockets. This was
the coolest feature of the tarp for me. With
the help of a simple hook-and-loop closure, › Bottom right:
the pockets keep the guy lines organized. This The older Moskito
Hammock had a
makes setup and teardown times shorter more compact size
and less frustrating. The corners are visibly and lighter weight,
but the new unit
reinforced with a small piece of webbing and has some improve-
a metal ring. The guy lines are orange, which ments.
is a great color; it gets your attention so you › Below: The

don’t trip or kick them out accidentally. They author has used
the very light Trav-
also have some reflective qualities when a eller Hammock in
light source shines on them. (Of course, I still the desert, woods
and jungle. It lacks
tripped over them a few times ... user error.) a built-in mosquito
The Traveller Rain Fly comes with long, thin net, so it is best for
use in non-buggy
aluminum stakes to hold it all down in most areas.
TRAVELLER
LITE
HAMMOCK
Go light and fast!
I have used hammocks by Byer of Maine due to their travel-friendly
weight. One model is the Traveller Lite Hammock. It weighs about 11
ounces. I can add my own bug net/tarp combo to it, and it will still
weigh well under 2 pounds.
A mosquito net in the jungle is absolutely indispensable. Without it,
you will surely slap away all night while blurting out profanities. In
addition, with diseases such as malaria and dengue fever around,
sleeping without a bug net is a bad idea. Unfortunately, the Traveller
Lite Hammock didn’t have a mosquito net.
For years, Pro Force mosquito nets have been a mainstay with a few of
us who frequent the Peruvian rain forest. They have small metal rings
(reinforced) for easy setup. One of these nets can be used in a swamp
bed or on the ground in a hut. It will pair perfectly with the Traveller
Lite Hammock, which is perfect for dry, warm places where a mosquito
net isn’t needed or for hanging as a way to keep gear off the ground.

Compact CNC Mills
THE TARP COMES WITH THE GUY
LINES (CORDAGE) ATTACHED TO Ready to Work
THE TARP CORNERS IN THEIR OWN
POCKETS. THIS WAS THE COOLEST
When Called to Action
FEATURE OF THE TARP FOR ME.
Make the gear you need,
should disaster strike.
The PCNC 440 cuts

plastic, wood, aluminum,
steel, and titanium.
We’ve got you covered.
× Small footprint
× Single-phase power,
runs on common
120Vac electrical
× A metal-cutting warrior
Are You Ready?

www.tormach.com
Human
e
VOY
by Survivor Rober
‹ Shown on an earlier trip in Peru, the older Moskito Hammock hangs under a
silnylon tarp. The bug net sags inward and was usually up against the skin, making
it a constant annoyance.
YOYO won’t work, survival

normal situations. However, my campsite was on the water bank, so everything
requires a HUB family. Plentiful
was sandy. The winds were especially bad at night. Nothing would stay in the
ground, so I had to use large boulders and loose chunks of coral to secure the
supplies and ammo isn’t enough;
stakes. It had nothing to do with the stakes at all, just the sand. Eventually, I do you know how to tap into your
tied the guy lines around the coral rocks; that worked fine. animal instincts, maximize your
I will continue to use this tarp on my jungle trips in the future and not com- intellectual potential, resolve
plain about the weight. The Traveller Rain Fly is no regular tarp—I believe it is the conflicts within your group?
the closest I’ve seen to a “super-tarp”!
This book provides guidelines to
The new Byer of Maine Amazonas sleep system is a near-complete setup that
lacks only a sleeping pad and blanket cover. The straps are easy to use, strong
achieve these necessary goals.
and not terribly heavy. The tarp-and-hammock combo translates to a good
night’s sleep. I recommend it to anyone who wants a dry, bug-free sleeping
environment, wherever they might find themselves.
AVAILABLE AT ONL
I
t’s not just a scare tactic put out there that going three to four days with-
out water can kill you—it’s an absolute, indisputable fact!
Science doesn’t lie, and when your body is severely lacking this precious
liquid, very bad things happen. Headaches become intense, concentra-
tion diminishes, aches and pains develop, and your mouth, skin and lips
become incredibly dry. In the worst cases, you risk suffering extreme fatigue,
lethargy, accelerated heartbeat and, ultimately, death.
Now, the important thing to remember is that not all water is safe to drink, no
matter how tempting it is to your dry throat and thirsty lips. In fact, raw water
found in lakes, ponds, rivers and even puddles is inundated with an assortment
of contaminants and pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, molds and protozoa—
all possibly life-threatening if ingested and left untreated.
However, there are numerous solutions that turn questionable water into
a safe, life-sustaining fluid. These include filters, purifiers and chemical
additives. From simple tablets to table-top filtering fixtures, the choices are
diverse, but all are ready to provide safe water today and for future survival
situations and outdoor adventures.
TRANSFORM
POLLUTED
INTO POTABLESIMPLE, QUICK AND EFFECTIVE
WATER TREATMENT PRODUCTS BY MICHAEL D’ANGONA

Sawyer 1-Gallon
Water Filtration System
Overview Specifications
Ideal for larger groups or fam- • Percentage of protection: Removes
ilies, this “big boy” can handle 99.99999% of bacteria; 99.9999%
up to a gallon of questionable of all protozoa
water and filter it clean and • Does not remove chemicals and
ready to drink within 10 minutes. heavy metals
Using gravity and Sawyer’s MINI • Capacity: 1 gallon
0.1-micron absolute hollow-fiber • Filter rate: Seven minutes for full
filter to get the job done, cysts, filtration
dangerous bacteria and harmful • Filter life: Up to 100,000 gallons
protozoa won’t slip through, al- • Size: 2.8x5.8 inches
lowing you to enjoy crisp, clean, • Weight: 4.5 ounces
life-saving water. The kit includes
MSRP
gravity bladder, filter, cleaning
$39.99
plunger, cleaning coupling, tubing
and tube protector. URL
www.Sawyer.com
Grayl Ultralight Purifier

The Ultralight Purifier uses no batteries, • Percentage of protection:
UV bulbs, chemicals, pumping, squeez- Removes 99.9999% of
ing or long wait times—only a simple, viruses/bacteria; 99.999% of
“one-press” purification activation. Just protozoa
fill up at any stream, lake, tap or even • Removes chemicals and heavy
bathroom sink, and in fewer than 15 metals
seconds, water will be safe to drink. It • Capacity: 16 ounces
is ideal for backwoods adventure or • Filter rate: Purifies water within
across-the-globe water safety. This 15 seconds
inconspicuous water bottle is truly more • Filter life: Average of 40
than meets the eye. It improves the gallons
health, flavor, odor and clarity of nearly • Size: 9.62x2.87 inches
any questionable water source. • Weight: 10.90 ounces
MSRP
$59.95
URL
www.TheGrayl.com

Sawyer S1 Foam Filter
Need safe water on your next hike? • Percentage of protection:
The S1 should do the trick perfectly. Removes above 0.1 micron
This model combines a proprietary in size of bacteria, protozoa,
foam membrane with a durable sili- chemicals, pesticides
cone bottle fitted with a hollow-fiber • Does not remove heavy
filter to give you extreme protection metals
from bacteria, protozoa, chemicals • Capacity: 20 ounces
and pesticides. Additionally, it filters • Filter rate: Filters upon
sediment and dirt, so you’ll enjoy squeezing
clean, safe water. • Filter life: 1,600 uses
• Size: 3x8.5 inches
MSRP
$59.99
URL
www.Sawyer.com
Sawyer Squeeze
Water Filtration System
Versatility is at the forefront of • Percentage of protection: Removes
this water filtration kit. Use the 99.9999% of bacteria; 99.999%
included pouches for just the of protozoa
right amount of water you need • Does not remove chemicals and
or, if desired, attach a water heavy metals
bladder or a screw-cap water • Capacity: Includes one 16-ounce
bottle to store clean water for and two 64-ounce pouches
later. This small wonder will • Filter rate: Filters upon squeezing
remove bacteria, dirt and green • Filter life: Lifetime guarantee
matter from your water source, • Size: 2x5 inches (filter), 6x11 inches
allowing you to keep hydrated (pouch)
and safe from harmful patho- • Weight: 3 ounces
gens. The kit includes the filter,
MSRP
collapsible pouches, backwash-
$49.99
ing plunger, cleaning coupling,
inline adapters, drinking straw URL
and convenient carrying bag to www.Sawyer.com
keep everything secure.

Potable Aqua Drinking Water
Germicidal Tablets With PA+
These germicidal tablets pack a one- • Effective against protozoa in
two punch by first neutralizing any questionable water
bacterial danger in the questionable • Do not remove chemicals and
water and then eliminating the “off” heavy metals
taste and color of the iodine additive. • Neutralize iodine taste and
The tablets are proven highly effective color in water
against Giardia lamblia and other • Water ready to drink in 35
harmful microscopic “critters.” Take minutes
the time to treat your water with these • Useful in survival and camping
disinfecting tablets, and they will help situations
you avoid intense gastro-intestinal
MSRP
pain (or worse).
$24.99
URL
www.Rothco.com
RapidPure Pioneer System

Small enough to fit inside your tackle • Percentage of protection: Removes
box, backpack or emergency kit, 99.9999% of viruses; 99.9975% of
this water purifier removes harmful cysts; 99.9999% of bacteria
bacteria, viruses and cysts to make • Removes chemicals and heavy
nearly any water source safe to metals
drink from while you are out in the • Capacity: Unit filters constantly
field. The Pioneer exceeds U.S. EPA through water source
standards, can be used after being • Filter rate: 1.2 liters per minute
frozen and filters at an incredible • Filter life: 200 gallons for bacteria,
rate of two to eight times faster 25 gallons for viruses
than competitive purifiers. The • Size: Palm-sized unit with extension
Pioneer pore size is 1.75 microns in tubing
size, as opposed to 0.2 with filters. • Weight: 1.90 ounces, including
pouch
MSRP
$29.99
URL
www.RapidPure.net

Survivor Filter PRO
Pump your way to fresh, clean—and • Percentage of protection:
most importantly—safe-to-drink water Removes 99.999% of virus-
anywhere, any time. It has an indus- es, bacteria, protozoa
try-leading 0.01-micron triple filtration • Removes chemicals and
system, so you’ll rid your questionable heavy metals
water of viruses, bacteria and cysts • Capacity: Constant filtering
(such as giardia and cryptosporidium). upon pumping
Heavy metals will be reduced, and • Filter rate: 0.5 liter per
the taste will be improved for steady minute
hydration, no matter where you find • Filter life: 2,000 liters
yourself in the world. • Size: 3.2x2x6.5 inches
MSRP
$70
URL
www.SurvivorFilter.com
Survivor Filter Squeeze Kit

This incredible water filtering kit • Percentage of protection:
provides fresh water while you’re Removes 99.999% of viruses,
on your weekend hike, at camp or bacteria, protozoa
under survival conditions. Utilizing • Removes chemicals and
a removable ultra-filter, replace- heavy metals
able carbon filter and cotton • Capacity: Includes two 1-liter
pre-filters, this unit will keep the canteens
“bad” things out while allowing • Filter rate: 7 ounces per
in only safe water, keeping you minute
hydrated throughout your journey. • Filter life: 1,000-liter filter
The kit includes two collapsible lifespan
canteens, the Survivor Filter and • Size: Palm-sized, handheld
five cotton pre-filters. filter
• Weight: Less than 6.0 ounces
MSRP
$40
URL

Survivor Filter Electric PRO X
Handheld Water Filter
The world’s first portable electric • Percentage of protection:
water filter, the PRO X produces Removes 99.999% of viruses,
fast, filtered water at the touch of bacteria, protozoa
a button. Using batteries, a mobile • Removes chemicals and heavy
charger, USB port or any traditional metals
plug, this unit can produce tasty, • Capacity: Continuously filters
virus-, bacteria- and protozoa-free through pump
water with very little effort or stress • Filter rate: 17 ounces per minute
on your part. It uses a replaceable • Filter life: 100 liters (membrane
triple filtration system, including filters); 2,000 liters (charcoal
two cleanable membranes with a filter)
0.01-micron final stage, so you’ll • Battery life: Filters 94 gallons or
feel confident when drinking water. more
The PRO X contains everything • Size: 1.8x4.2x6.4 inches
you need to get started, including • Weight: 14.1 ounces
the electric filter, one set of filters,
MSRP
hoses, batteries, chargers, cables,
$125
backwashing syringe and convenient
carrying case. URL
Alexapure Pro Ultimate

Flow Kit
This fully loaded filtration system • Percentage of protection:
has it all—a main filtration unit, three Removes up to 99.9999% of
extra filters, a parts kit, stainless steel hundreds of contaminants
stand and a collapsible, 5-gallon • Removes chemical and heavy
tote for carrying or storing “dirty” or metals
filtered fresh water. Using gravity to • Capacity: 2.25 gallons
filter out more than 200 contam- • Filter rate: Gravity-fed; provides
inants, this extra-large-capacity instant filtration
unit will provide fresh water for the • Filter life: Up to 20,000 gallons
entire family or bug-out group. Easy • Size: 21.5 inches
cleanup and the ability to use four • Weight: 7.6 pounds
filter ports to maximize flow rate and
MSRP
capacity make this pro kit a staple for
$687.65
everyone’s ultimate prepping plan.
URL
www.MyPatriotSupply.com

Survival Spring
Personal Water Filter
Can it really be any simpler than drop- • Percentage of protection:
ping a straw into a water source and Removes 99.0% of waterborne
up comes fresh, safe water? Not really. protozoa/bacteria
However, the Survival Springs Personal • Does not remove chemicals
Filter does just that. No more worries and heavy metals
about getting sick, no complicated • Capacity: Volume of any
apparatuses and no difficulty attaching attached bottle or continuous
generic water bottles for drinking while drinking with a straw
on the move. This straw takes care of • Filter rate: Instantly filters
all those concerns. Its three specialized upon drinking
filtering stages remove large particles • Filter life: Up to 300 gallons
and pathogens, as well as sediment, • Size: 9x1 inches
chlorine, volatile organic compounds • Weight: 2.0 ounces
(VOCs), foul tastes and disgusting
MSRP
odors. Use it confidently for water
$24.95
from streams, ponds, rivers, lakes or
anywhere you have concerns about the URL
purity of your water source. www.MyPatriotSupply.com
RapidPure Intrepid Water

Bottle with Pioneer Filter
Encased within a nearly indestructible • Percentage of protection:
bottle is an incredible water purifying Removes 99.9999% of viruses/
filter. It is designed to allow only safe bacteria; 99.9975% of cysts
water through while keeping harmful • Removes chemicals and heavy
pathogens contained within its filter, metals
where they are eventually destroyed. • Capacity: 750 ml
Just fill your bottle from any suspi- • Filter rate: 1.2 liters per minute
cious water source and slake your • Filter life: 200 gallons for
thirst without fear or worry. Its ergo- bacteria, cysts, protozoa; 25
nomic design and integrated carrying gallons for viruses
tab make it easy to carry while on the • Size: 11.5x9.0x3.1 inches
march; and its long service life will • Weight: 9.2 ounces
outlast nearly any outdoor excursion.
MSRP
$59.99
URL
www.RapidPure.com

THE AFRICAN SUNCOMPASS IS ACCURATE,
COMPACT AND BATTERY-FREE.
BY BRIAN M. MORRIS

L
and navigation is a perish- › Right: Survival ex-
pert Mykel Hawke
able skill. Yet most so-called
puts the African
“survivalists” and survival media SunCompass into
action while on an
seem to avoid the topic like the
excursion out in the
plague. I get it, I guess. I mean, field.
TV shows and magazines only have so long to
grab your attention, and land navigation isn’t
exactly the sexiest bushcraft topic. When you
compare it with some guy parachuting into a
jungle, then ripping the head off an anaconda
with his teeth and eating it raw; or a naked
couple running through a swamp with pixilated
body parts and a spear, navigation comes in a
distant second.
The one thing people tend to forget is that
if you can’t figure out where you are or where
you need to go, you’re leaving your rescue to › Below: This Sun-
Compass cannot
fate by depending on someone else to find
be relied upon for
you. You are also lowering your chances of navigation without
the presence of sun-
finding all the other survival necessities, such friend and Green Beret brother Mykel Hawke. He offered to introduce me to Timm Irvine-Smith,
light. Therefore, an
as food, water and shelter. additional means of a good friend of his who had invented a way to turn a sundial into an instrument he named the
determining direc-
So, I went through my contacts, searching African SunCompass. This device uses direct sunlight to easily triangulate your position on a
tion and position is
for people I know who keep up with the latest strongly advised. topographical map to within 50 meters and give you a daily GPS fix (latitude and longitude or
Remember: “Two
and greatest navigation gadgets. Soon after Military Grid Reference System [MGRS]).
is one, and one is
putting my feelers out, I got a call from good none.” Ordinarily, I would have had major doubts about such claims, but I gave Irvine-Smith a call

‹ Left: The SunCompass is clearly marked and
easy to read. In addition, it is lightweight and
requires very little space in your pack.
African SunCompass
• Diameter: 4.33 inches
• Thickness: 0.12 inch
• Choice of natural bamboo or white plas-
tic-construction compass discs
• Instructions
• Copper retention ring
• Gnomon
• Plumb line and weight
MSRP: $63.20
www.AfricanSunCompass.com
to find out more about this invention, which

really seemed too good to be true. I was curi-
ous about what made his invention so much
different from the “shadow stick method”
that I’ve used to determine direction for
decades (and that mankind has been using
for thousands of years).
Irvine-Smith has long had a keen interest in
self-reliance and bushcraft skills. He thought
it would be great to be able to navigate using
the sun, along with a simple piece of wood to
which he could add specific markings.
A few years back, he and his wife, Melina,
toured Europe in a camper van. They traveled
from Nordkapp, in northernmost Norway, to
the island of Malta, south of Sicily in the Med-
iterranean Sea, and everywhere in between.
During their travels, Irvine-Smith kept refining
the SunCompass.
One day, while traversing Switzerland, he
managed to determine his position to within
16.7 miles (27 km) with his latest SunCom-
pass prototype. Subsequently, he was able
to innovate a simple method to both set the
SunCompass at any time of day and also
› Right: Mykel
determine latitude and longitude once per day Hawke, well-known
at noon. Irvine-Smith had reduced the task survival expert, U. S.
Army Special Forces
of using the sun to determine direction from combat veteran
a complex mathematical puzzle to a process and television per-
sonality, has used
virtually anyone could follow. and endorses the
African SunCom-
pass because of its
HOW IT WORKS accuracy, portability
Irvine-Smith credits his good friend, Captain and lack of depen-
dence on modern
Johan Fryer (he is a survival instructor in technology.

Special Task Force of the South African police),
who gave him the idea after Irvine-Smith was
introduced to American survival expert Ron Hood’s
Ottomani Sun Compass, which resembled the
shadow stick navigation technique.
As Irvine-Smith became more familiar with
the shadow stick method, there were two
big problems with it that occurred to him:
First, you cannot pick it up and travel with it.
Second, you are only ever truly accurate on
two days of the year.
By studying the movements of the Earth
around the sun, Irvine-Smith drafted the
African SunCompass to not only correct the
inaccuracy of the shadow stick method, but
to also make it a portable and highly effective
‹ The solid curved line on the graph on the back of the SunCompass corrects for declination.
The dashed curved equation line corrects for time.
ABOUT
TIMM
IRVINE-SMITH
Timm Irvine-Smith was born in Zimbabwe, but his family soon
moved to South Africa, where he was raised in an isolated rural
region of the country (where learning wilderness survival and
navigation skills were part of a normal way of life).
After finishing his bachelor of arts degree—majoring in philosophy
and law—and thereafter bachelor of laws, he left university in
1993 and went overseas. He stayed in the United Kingdom with
his father during 1993 and did multiple close-protection courses
with ex-22 SAS (Lofty Wiseman) and Royal Protection Unit
(Dennis Martin) instructors.
‹ Unlike other bulkier instruments and gadgets used for direction-finding, the SunCompass is
Irvine-Smith was opposed to apartheid, but he was optimistic so small, thin and lightweight that it can fit in the palm of your hand—making it easy to travel
that change was on the horizon. Not long after he returned to with and adding almost no extra weight to your kit.
South Africa in 1994, apartheid ended. Irvine-Smith joined the
newly formed Criminal Intelligence Service, for which he was
challenged with uniting two formerly contentious groups into a
functional protective detail. After accomplishing that, Irvine-Smith
worked his way up through the ranks and was even decorated for
saving 12 people from a gunman.
In 2005, Irvine-Smith was recruited by South Africa’s Special Task
Force (STF)—the country’s most elite police Special Operations
force. During an STF training event, he talked with a comrade
about correcting the error inherent in the shadow stick method of
direction-finding and making it usable on the move. As a result,
the idea for the SunCompass was born.
Today, Irvine-Smith commands an STF medical support
detachment and is the owner of Ronin South Africa. This school
teaches a broad spectrum of close-protection disciplines,
including pre-hospital emergency care, pedestrian escort, venue
security, protective driving, conflict management, and firearms
and operational preparedness.
‹ The front of the SunCompass is shown on the white plastic model, and the back of the device
is shown on the natural bamboo version.

compass that shows true north year-round.
Additionally, he integrated a primitive GPS
functionality that provides a daily latitude
and longitude anywhere the sun shines. The
coolest thing about Irvine-Smith’s SunCompass
is that it has no moving parts and is powered
exclusively by the sun, so you are not dependent
on electricity or access to satellites!
The African SunCompass is not affected by
magnets, electronics or minerals in the ground,
and it always shows you true north, using
direct sunlight. This eliminates the need for
magnetic declination calculations, making it
easy to do your map work. This sun compass I WENT FROM EXTREME SKEPTIC TO A ‹ The SunCom-
pass is available in
will operate any place that has sunlight for
more than seven hours on any given day at any
TRUE BELIEVER IN JUST A FEW DAYS, AND two styles: white
plastic and natural
time of the year, and it is effective in the lati- I THINK YOU WILL TOO. THE SUNCOMPASS bamboo.
tudes south of Copenhagen, Denmark, to the IS A REMARKABLE PIECE OF SURVIVAL

southern tip of South America. Only in deep
winter does its area of operation exclude the
GEAR. I DON’T PLAN TO EVER GO INTO THE
northern parts of Scandinavia, Russia, Canada, WILDERNESS AGAIN WITHOUT ONE.
‹ Left: When you

add a map and
protractor, you can
use your SunCom-
pass to determine a
latitude/longitude
or MGRS fix on
your position to
within 50 meters in
the same way that
you would use a
conventional GPS.
Nevertheless, there
are no batteries
required. All you
need is the sun!

Alaska and Greenland, along with the Arctic
and Antarctic circles.
When using the SunCompass, the sun’s
shadow must fall into the Western Hemi-
sphere if it is before solar noon (morning) and
into the Eastern Hemisphere if it is after solar
noon (afternoon). This is simply due to the
fact that the sun rises in the east and sets in
the west; and therefore, shadows rise in the ‹ Left and below:
While it makes
west and set in the east. sense to practice
The solar equator moves throughout the year and master the use
of alternate naviga-
between the tropics from 23.3 degrees north tion devices such
to 23.3 degrees south. If you live in the tropical as the SunCompass,
it is important to
zone, you could find yourself in the Northern or remember that
Southern solar hemispheres, depending on the these devices are
intended for use in
time of the year. emergency situa-
The graphs on the back of the SunCompass tions. You should
remain compe-
correct for declination and equation of time. tent in the use of
To use the graphs on the SunCompass, you traditional land
THE AFRICAN SUNCOMPASS IS NOT simply find your approximate date on the
navigation tech-
niques and never go
AFFECTED BY MAGNETS, ELECTRONICS OR month markings on the bottom row, using the into the wilderness
without having at
MINERALS IN THE GROUND, AND IT ALWAYS plumbline as a ruler. The lines are even divided least a map and a
into 1st, 10th, 20th and 30th increment marks good compass, such
SHOWS YOU TRUE NORTH, USING DIRECT to assist you in following the line up to the
as the military-issue
lensatic compass
SUNLIGHT. respective graphs and read off their value, using shown here.

THE ONE THING THAT PEOPLE TEND TO FORGET IS THAT IF YOU
CAN’T FIGURE OUT WHERE YOU ARE OR WHERE YOU NEED TO
GO, YOU’RE LEAVING YOUR RESCUE TO FATE BY DEPENDING
ON SOMEONE ELSE TO FIND YOU.
the markings on the edge of the graph. troubleshoot common questions. Irvine-Smith and his staff are very good at getting back to you ‹ Timm Irvine-Smith
The SunCompass is not a complicated when you have questions, which I found helpful. has taken his
knowledge of math-
instrument to use. With only five parts, it After spending a few days in the wilderness with the SunCompass, it was not long before my ematics, geography
did not take me long to master. The device confidence in the device increased. With some practice, I was able to get an azimuth that was and engineering
to create a device
comes with a “gnomon,” which is used to cast spot-on with my military-issue lensatic compass; and, with the use of a stick I found on the ground made from mainly
a shadow that you use to find north. It has a and a sharp pencil, I was also able to triangulate myself to within 100 meters of my location in natural materials
and no electronic
string, pendant and copper ring, all used for accordance with my GPS reading. Not bad for a newbie! parts. It uses the sun
both direction-finding and for getting a fix. The I went from extreme skeptic to a true believer in just a few days, and I think you will too. The to give direction and
fix a location—with
SunCompass also includes detailed instruc- SunCompass is a remarkable piece of survival gear. I don’t plan to ever go into the wilderness the accuracy of a
tions that explain how to use it and how to again without one. modern GPS.

RESCUE HIDDEN TREASURES
HIDING UNDER THAT RUSTY PATINA.
BY DANA BENNER
‹ Putting an edge on this old draw knife didn’t

remove any of the character from the blade.

S
ome people like old firearms;
some like old vehicles. I like
old tools, especially old bladed
tools. I’m not a “bright and
shiny” kind of guy. As an out-
doorsperson and historian, I like things that
tell a story. Tools do just that.
Among most indigenous people, it is believed
that a tool holds the spirit of the person who
either made it or used it. Believing that, when I
pick up an old axe or knife, I feel that spirit and
wonder about the stories the tool could tell.
Where I live, I am known for sharpening
bladed tools. I also work to restore neglected
blades, bringing them back to life. I am really
fond of carbon-steel blades and admittedly
do not really like stainless steel. Tools made
from carbon steel are tools of history; they
hold an edge and will last forever ... if they are
taken care of.
If there is a drawback to carbon steel it is
that it rusts. The good news is that with a
little work, in most cases, carbon-steel tools
and blades can be brought back to “life.”
Recently, a good friend brought me a knife
and asked if I could do something with it. It
was in rough shape and badly rusted. It was
so bad, in fact, that I almost didn’t take it on.
Then, I heard the story behind the blade: My
friend’s brother carried this knife in Vietnam.
To some, this knife would have been just
another badly rusted blade, but for my friend
(and for me), it was something special. It was
a part of history; his family’s history. Being a
veteran myself, I felt this knife deserved to be
given whatever attention I could give it.
YOU NEVER KNOW WHERE YOU’LL

FIND THEM
I don’t purposely go out looking for rusty
tools. Most of the time, they come to me. I
don’t collect them, I use them, preferring to
use an older tool that is in good shape than
some of the newer ones available. Despite the
fact that some of them have been neglected,
there is a reason they have been around so
long: They were made to last. There are other
people out there who feel the same way I do,

‹ Left: It was amaz-
ing to see what the
restoration experts
at the Mel Fisher
Maritime Museum
were able to rescue
from the ocean
depths and ravages
of time.
judging by the number of knives people bring this way, although admittedly, most of the stuff I find is beyond repair or use.
to me to sharpen. Check out yard sales. Stacked in the back somewhere—behind the baby clothes and grandma’s
When it comes to finding these tools, it is china—you’ll usually find the “junk.” A friend of mine is notorious for just buying those boxes of
sometimes just a matter of keeping your eyes › Below, right: These rusty stuff outright and then going through it when he gets home. I like to take my time and look.
shipboard artifacts
open. For example, while hunting, I often come The last thing I need is another box of rusty screws and broken hinges. If I don’t need it, I don’t
were brought up
across old, abandoned shacks, barns and sheds. from the ocean buy it (unless it is something that screams out to me).
floor and were
There usually isn’t much left to them, but I poke While flea markets are good places to find these “treasures,” I stay away from them. Anything
being prepared for
around in them just the same. You just never restoration at the “old” is marked as an antique at a typical flea market, and once that is done, you’ll probably
Mel Fisher Maritime
know what you will find. People always leave end up paying more than it is worth. Unless you are a collector, flea markets are not always cost
Museum in Key
stuff behind. I have actually found a few knives West, Florida. effective. Remember, when I purchase a tool, I intend to use it.
Check with your own family. After my parents died, I had the task of cleaning out their home
of more than 50 years. Buried deep in the recesses of the garage, among the assorted pieces of
scrap metal and cans of old bolts, I found a few items I could use. One was a Dumas machete
THE made in France that dated back to at least the Vietnam War era or even before (they were used
in World War II as well).
BENEFITS
The bottom line: Keep your eyes open, and don’t overlook the obvious.
I could be philosophical and say that the benefit of restoring these

old blades is the preservation of history. As true as that is, it is not
something that motivates many people. But saving money does.
Many of us lay out hundreds of dollars on knives and edged tools
every year, but what would you say if you could get a really good
blade for $20 and some elbow grease? These knives might look
a little rough, but good-quality knives, axes and machetes can be
found at yard sales for next to nothing. All you have to do is look
for them and spend some time cleaning them up.
Another plus gained from going through this process is gaining
the ability to convert useful tools from other people’s junk. If the
time comes that we aren’t able to buy the shiny, new edged tools
we need, knowing how to recondition old implements will be a
valuable skill to use for yourself or for bartering.

THERE IS SOMETHING TO BE SAID Then there is honoring the “spirit” of the tool.
Some of these tools are as old as I am; perhaps
‹ Above, left: One of
the more satisfying
ABOUT OLDER TOOLS, ESPECIALLY even older. If they could talk, what kinds of sto-
parts of recondition-
ing an old knife is
THE BLADED IMPLEMENTS THAT WERE ries do you think they could tell? My job is not
using a whetstone to
put an edge on it, as
USED IN THE PAST. to eliminate their past, but instead, to continue
their story. I don’t try to remove or fix the nicks
the author does here
with his EDC Swiss
Army knife.
RESTORATION EQUIPMENT in the blades, because they are part of the story.
When I restore old carbon-steel tools, I don’t use chemicals. Oh, there are chemicals out there The equipment I use is very simple: some ‹ Above, right: The
author carefully uses
that will eat through rust, but I don’t use them. Why? They would certainly make my job easier, 0000 steel wool, steel scrubbing pads, fine sandpaper to
but simply put, those chemicals will also eat away at the very things that give the tools char- extra-fine sandpaper, a sharpening device of lightly take the rust
off the blade of a
acter—things such as blood and sweat that, over time, leave their marks in the metal. Just ask some kind and a great deal of elbow grease. combat knife.
someone who restores old firearms. They call it “patina.” That’s it.
‹ Left: Later in the

process, the author
uses a steel scrub
pad to remove even
more rust from the
combat knife’s blade.
The pad does less
damage to the blade
than sandpaper.

NON-BLADED
TOOLS
Some people come to me with rusty, old wrenches, hammers,
screwdrivers and such. They ask me what they can do with them to
make them useful again. Perhaps they found them at a yard sale, or
maybe they belonged to their great-grandfather.
What I tell them is to get a 5-gallon bucket and plenty of regular
Coca-Cola. Fill the bucket with the Coke and put the tools in it. Let
them soak until the rust is removed. Coke, for whatever reason,
will eat away the rust. Once the rust is gone, wash the tools and
thoroughly dry them. Then, lubricate any moving parts and
apply a thin layer of oil to keep them in great shape.
THE RESTORATION
› Top right: The Before you get to work—and believe me, it
author puts the final
touches on the edge
is work—you have to decide what you intend
of a “saved” shovel. to do with the restored tool. Is your goal to
restore it to its original glory; to make it look
like new? Are you planning to restore it just
enough to use it, leaving some of that age
and character and remembering what I said
about the “spirit”? Do you plan on cleaning
it enough for display purposes? All these
considerations need to be decided before you
get started, because the process is a little
different for each one. shovels, hoes, chisels and similar tools, are a different matter.
To learn more about true restoration, I In some cases, the item is too far gone and cannot be safely restored to a usable condition.
made a trip to Key West, Florida, to visit with Maybe it can be cleaned up enough to be displayed as a wall decoration, but more than likely, it
friend Corey Malcom, the head archaeologist will need to go to the scrap pile. In the case of that Vietnam combat knife, I was at least going to
at the Mel Fisher Maritime Museum. Corey bring it back enough so it could be displayed if I couldn’t make it usable again.
took me on a tour so I could see the work a The steps I took with the blade my friend asked me to work on are the same steps I take
true museum-quality restoration entails. The with any project.
process is long and painstaking, but you have to
remember that the goal is to try to preserve bits
and pieces of history. After leaving the museum,
I realized that what I am doing, although it is
time consuming, is nothing compared to the
work being done there.
Most of the time, my goal is to restore the
tool back to a point at which it can again
be used safely. No matter what type of
restoration you plan on doing, before you
start, you need to know what you are working
with—and that means a careful inspection
of the item. Whether it is an axe head, knife
or a shovel, you need to make sure it is worth
› Bottom right: The
the effort. Is the rust just surface rust, or does
author puts the edge on it go much deeper? Axe and maul heads are
a Vietnam-era French
machete found in his
thick enough to be rescued, no matter how deep
father’s garage. the rust goes, but thinner blades, such as knives,

‹ Far left, top: This is an
example of the type of
building in which the
author has had success
finding old tools and
knives.
‹ Far left, bottom: After

removing the rust and
other signs of age, the
author is finally ready
to take the final step in
putting an edge back
on the blade.
‹ Near left: The com-

bat knife looks quite a
bit better after the au-
thor finished his work.
It is usable again, but it
also retains some of its
original character.
INSPECTION pitting. If a serious situation is hidden under

I did see that there was still hope for this particular blade. To learn more about the knife, I the surface rust, you will not know if it will
first took a small piece of extra-fine sandpaper and removed the rust until I could see the blade take an edge until you try to sharpen it.
markings, which are usually found near the hilt. Carefully removing the rust, and without digging During the sharpening process, I use different
into the good metal, I found the following markings: “US Camillus NY.” devices, sometimes even including motorized
With that information in hand, I did some research and found that this knife is a Mark 2 and sharpeners, depending on the blade that is
was produced for the military from 1962 to 1974 (the “NY” marking was dropped in 1974). This being sharpened and its condition. When it
same knife design was carried by U. S. forces in World War II and were marked with “USN” or comes to knives, I prefer to use a good, old
“USMC,” which indicated that this knife was a Vietnam-era blade. sharpening stone. The starting grit or coarse-
The blade had some nicks, but I could work around that. I have no idea how they got there, but ness is determined by the condition of the
that did not matter to me. They are part of the blade’s story, so they would stay. edge as I start and, as it comes back, I adjust
Using the sandpaper, I began to slowly remove the rust, just enough to expose the steel to stones that are progressively less coarse
beneath. No matter how fine the sandpaper, you will leave marks in the metal, so you need until I have the edge where I want it.
to use it sparingly. When working with axe and maul heads, while I still use the extra-fine When it is all done, I coat the blade with
sandpaper, I am not as concerned about leaving marks. My goal is to remove the rust and get a thin layer of gun oil because, after all this
the tool down to bare metal. work, I don’t want the rust to come back. Just
At this point, you must decide how to proceed. If you are going to put the blade on display in as with firearms, a little oil goes a long way.
its rugged state, you can stop right here. If you plan to use the knife or tool, finish removing the There is no need to overdo it.
rust so you can move to edge care and sharpening. There is something to be said about older
When it comes to knives (especially the knife I was working on), I put the sandpaper away and tools, especially the bladed implements that
move on to the steel wool and steel pads. Using these, I remove more of the rust, all in an effort were used in the past. Their carbon-steel
to reveal the entire blade. This is a long process and can become arduous if you are restoring a blades were made to last. Many of them,
knife that has saw teeth, serrations or other unusual features. especially those that received proper care, are
Once the blade is as clean as you want or can get it, it’s time to work on the edge. If a blade still in use today. Not only did they work, they
is to be brought back to a useable state, it has to be able to keep an edge. Just because it has also formed a part of our history and deserve
some nicks doesn’t mean it is a nonfunctional blade, but there could be other damage, such as to be saved, honored and kept in service.

EVERYDAY CARRY SOLUTIONS FOR
NONVIOLENT SITUATIONS
TEXT AND PHOTOS BY DANA BENNER

THE TRUTH IS ‹ Even a small light is better than being
completely in the dark or draining your
THAT FAR MORE cell phone battery during an emergency.
SITUATIONS,
ALTHOUGH
POTENTIALLY
VIOLENT, DON’T
REQUIRE THE USE OF
DEADLY FORCE.
T
here are many articles being
written about everyday carry
(EDC), and most of them are
pretty good.
The thing about EDC is that
every person and every scenario is different. As
with so much else we talk about, there is no
such thing as “one size fits all.” Most EDC articles
are written from the standpoint of the person
preparing for being faced with a potentially
lethal situation—a position for which the use of
a firearm or a knife might mean the difference
between life and death.
The truth is that far more situations,
although potentially violent, don’t require the
use of deadly force. There will be times and
places where a firearm—or even a knife—is a
“no-go.” Sometimes, the person might not feel
comfortable with either one, making them
(the person) more of a danger to themselves
than to any potential danger.
This article deals with EDC items everyone
should have, whether they carry a weapon or
not. I call it “EDC Lite.”
WHO IS THIS FOR?

In this day and age, everyone is carrying
a firearm or a knife, right? What if you find
yourself or your child in a situation where you
can’t carry either one, such as in a school, but
you want them to be safe in case of an emer-
gency? This article is for you. If you do any
traveling by air, you know that firearms and
knives can’t be carried onboard a plane. What
then? This article is for you. If you travel north
of the border into Canada, even by car, you
will find out that you can’t transport firearms
and certain knives or even pepper spray across
the border without a special permit (I know;
I found out the hard way). If this is you, this
article is for you.
SCENARIOS
More times than not, most emergencies will
not require you to fight it out with a bad guy.
Most might just require some basic tools and

‹ Left: Accidents
such as this happen
more often than we’d
like to think. If it were
necessary, would
you have the tools to
escape from this kind
of scenario?
‹ Below, left: A few

the knowledge of how to use them. What heavy storms, these ditches fill very quickly, and often, you can’t tell where the road ends and simple tools in an EDC
follows are some examples of these scenarios. the ditch begins. This happened to me while driving in south Florida. The rain was coming down Lite kit might be all you
need to get back on the
These are things that really happen. so hard that I couldn’t see well. However, I couldn’t pull off the road, because the water was so road.
Scenario 1: If you live anywhere in the South, high I couldn’t tell where the drainage ditch was. I couldn’t stop on the road, because I would be
you are familiar with the drainage ditches a danger to other vehicles. I made it through, but the situation could have turned very bad.
‹ Below, right: While
that run along both sides of many of the Every year, hundreds of people drive off the road and end up in those ditches; it usually these tools are for dif-
ferent purposes, all are
roads. During heavy rains, these ditches fill happens during heavy storms. What if you were one of them? What would you do? Help might
important to have close
with water running off of the roads. During or might not be on its way; and, if it is, will it get to you in time? How would you get yourself and at hand.

‹ Top left: The Gerber Impromptu Tactical
Pen has a glass breaker at the tip and plenty
of texture to keep a good grip on it during
emergencies. (Photo: Gerber)
The Gerber Shard stays in place on your

keychain, leaving your tools right at hand.
(Photo: Gerber)
‹ Near left: The 5.11 Tactical

EDT Multitool is small and
light. It can clip to your pack
or find a home in your car-
rying pouch or pack. (Photo:
5.11 Tactical)
‹ Far left, middle: The Gerber

Dime is small, versatile, effec-
tive and is easily stowed in a
pocket, pouch or backpack.
‹ Bottom left: The Swiss+Tech BodyGard PTX

offers a seatbelt cutter, flashlight and glass
breaker—all in one.
your family out? Do you have the simple tools needed to get out as the vehicle fills with water,
and are they on your person? What if the vehicle is upside-down in the ditch? If your 16-year-old
child were driving the car, would they have the tools and the know-how to save themselves?
Chances are, you are thinking, “Roll down the windows and get out!” That’s great advice ... if
your car has manual window cranks. But most vehicles today have electric windows. If the dam-
age is such that the windows don’t work or the electrical system is shot, what then? A simple tool
designed to break window glass, yet small enough to carry on your keychain, can save the day.
There are many options available on the market, and most are well worth the investment.
So, you can break the window glass—but you can’t release your seatbelt or those of your pas-
sengers. If you have a sharp knife, you can cut your way loose. But what if you don’t have a knife?
There are simple tools for that, as well, and most are small enough to carry in your pocket.
The bottom line: You need to have these tools within your reach at all times—and you have to
have the skills to use them. Every member of your family should be carrying both of these tools at
all times. You might not be there to save the day, and they will need to save themselves.
Scenario 2: It is a very hot summer day. You are shopping at the mall. You come across a vehicle
with a dog—or perhaps a small child—locked inside. The temperatures inside the vehicle are dras-
tically higher than outside, and they are rising. Common sense tells you this is a dire situation.
The occupants could be on the verge of death, because you have no idea how long they have
been in the vehicle.
After calling 9-1-1 on your cell phone, you have to decide what your next move is. Do you take
action or wait until help arrives? That is your call, but if it were me, I would ask for forgiveness
later instead of wasting time trying to find the owner (laws in some jurisdictions are changing to
allow breaking windows in certain hot-car rescue situations).
Do you have the tools to quickly get the animal or child out? If you are carrying the tool to break
glass, you can act and begin treating the victim until help arrives.
Scenario 3: This scenario is not as drastic as the previous two, but it has happened to me more
WHILE A GOOD KNIFE SHOULD ALWAYS BE

PART OF YOUR EDC, THERE ARE SOME CASES
FOR WHICH YOU WON’T BE ABLE TO CARRY
ONE OR HAVE TO DEAL WITH RESTRICTIONS
ON THE ONES YOU CAN CARRY.

MY EDC LITE
5.11 Tactical EDC PL 2 AAA
Penlight
• This flashlight is light and clips right into your pocket or pack. It uses
two AAA batteries, has a continuous runtime of four hours and is
rated at 107 lumens. With batteries, it weighs 2.14 ounces. It is water
and impact resistant.
MSRP: $24.99
www.511Tactical.com
Swiss+Tech BodyGard PTX

• This is a 3-in-1 emergency tool that includes a seatbelt cutter, glass
breaker and LED flashlight. It comes with a replaceable battery,
along with a keychain connector.
MSRP: $8
www.SwissTechTools.com
Gerber Impromptu Tactical Pen

‹ The author prefers to keep small tools on his keychain, where they are always handy if needed.
• This is a very high-quality tool that was developed with law enforce-
ment officials. The pen allows you to write in all weather conditions; it
also has an integrated glass-breaker tip and a steel body. It measures
around 5 inches long and weighs 2.4 ounces.
MSRP: $77
www.GerberGear.com
Gerber Dime Travel

• For those who want a traditional multi-tool that is easy to carry, the
Dime is for you. It measures 4.3 inches long when open and weighs
2.2 ounces. It comes complete with those items you look for in a
multi-tool (except a knife), including pliers.
MSRP: $25
www.GerberGear.com
Gerber Shard Keychain Tool

• This is one of the simplest and most useful tools available. The Shard
measures 2.75 inches long and weighs just 0.6 ounce. It includes a
pry bar, screwdrivers and a bunch of other features. If this is on your
‹ The author’s daughter’s backpack with essential tools. Left to right: Gerber Dime and Shard keychain or in your kit, you’ve made a good choice.
multi-tools, Swiss+Tech BodyGard PTX, 5.11 EDC PL2 penlight, Gerber Impromptu pen
MSRP: $7
than once. In my line of work, I travel a great deal, which means I fly somewhere and rent a www.GerberGear.com
vehicle. I have yet to see a rental car with an operational toolbox in the trunk. In that case, what
do you do if you need to make a quick repair? For instance, perhaps a hose clamp came loose. 5.11 Tactical EDT Multitool
You can either do it yourself or call the rental company to send help (which could take hours)—
• The EDT Multitool is light and simple, but it includes features that
if you have cell service. The rental doesn’t have a tool box; however, if you are carrying a
are not available on other similar tools, including a hex head wrench,
multi-tool of some sort, you could fix the problem and be on your way.
measuring rulers and a Kydex sheath.
Multi-tools come in all sizes and configurations. Some are very large, while others
are small enough to fit on a keychain or in your child’s backpack. My wife carries a MSRP: $12.99
www.511Tactical.com
small one in her purse. There are many on the market, so pick the one that works
best for you. Bear in mind that most of these tools include a knife blade, so they
might be restricted in some locations and situations.

THE GEAR
Over the years, I have refined the items that
make up my EDC Lite. At first, I designed it for
myself because of my frequent travels; but,
recently, I have reconfigured it so it would be
easy for my wife to use, because she travels
a great deal to Canada to visit relatives. I
also made it so a child could carry it to school
without breaking any rules. Last, but not least,
the kit has to be accessible. The items do you
no good if you can’t get to them.
Knives: While a good knife should always
be part of your EDC, there are some cases for
which you won’t be able to carry one or have
to deal with restrictions on the ones you can
carry. For example, at the Canadian border,
they will not allow you to bring standard
folders or fixed-blade knives without a permit,
but you can carry a Swiss Army knife, because
it is considered a multi-tool. For that reason,
my wife’s EDC Lite has a Swiss Army knife in it.
(Schools and airlines are another story. Neither
one allows for knives, so don’t even try.)
Lights: Some sort of flashlight is a must. and tough. Because it looks like a pen, I carry it in my shirt pocket. I also gave one to my daughter and ‹ Above: Friends
and family aren't
The good news is that today’s flashlights are put one in my wife’s EDC Lite. the only ones who
smaller, lighter and more powerful than in in Multi-tools: Right up front—despite what some of the manufacturers say—most multi-tools will might depend on
your abiility to cre-
the past. Thanks to new LED technology, they not be allowed on planes. The TSA will probably take it from you. While the SOP for TSA is pretty cut ate an escape route
are brighter, and the batteries generally last and dry, each airport plays by its own rules. So, what passes through one airport might not make it out of a damaged
vehicle.
longer. One flashlight that is part of my EDC through another. Despite this, a multi-tool of some sort is always something to have on hand.
Lite kit is the 5.11 Tactical EDC PL2AAA (see the There are many multi-tools on the market. Some are very elaborate, while others are very
sidebar on page 81). This flashlight is very light simple. For the EDC Lite kit, I like to keep things simple; and there are a few I like because of their
‹ Left: Several of
the tools contained
in the author’s EDC
Lite kit would have
been helpful in this
situation.

AS WITH ANY EDC SETUP, THE EDC LITE KIT WILL NOT COVER ALL
SITUATIONS. WHAT IT WILL DO IS GIVE YOU PEACE OF MIND AS
YOU SEND YOUR KIDS OFF TO SCHOOL OR WHEN YOU TRAVEL AND
CAN’T CARRY YOUR NORMAL EDC.
simplicity and ease of carry. 5.11 Tactical puts your keychain or in a backpack pocket. ‹ Above: This is one
out a product called the EDT Multitool. This Seatbelt Cutters and Window Breakers: There are literally hundreds of these items out reason the author
built an EDC Lite
is an all-in-one tool that fits nicely onto your there, but some are really too bulky to be what I would put into the EDC Lite kit, and many are kit for his daughter.
keychain or on your child’s backpack. Another simply knives. Swiss+Tech puts out a handy, little device called the BodyGard PTX that incor- The repair could
be as simple as
one, the Shard, is produced by Gerber. Both porates a seatbelt cutter, glass breaker and LED light, all in one. Gerber’s Impromptu Tactical tightening a hose
of these tools are simple and straight to the Pen does not have a seatbelt cutter, but it does come with a glass breaker, making it a handy clamp.
point, and both have the features that can tool to have. Any sharp tool will cut a seatbelt, so keep one on hand.
keep you up and running in most situations. As with any EDC setup, the EDC Lite kit will not cover all situations. What it will do is give
For those who want a more traditional multi- you peace of mind as you send your kids off to school or when you travel and can’t carry your
tool, yet one that is small enough to carry normal EDC. Bad things happen all the time, but most of the time, they have nothing to do
easily, Gerber puts out the Dime. This is a with terrorists or others looking to do you harm. Having the tools on hand that can get you
multi-tool, complete with pliers, that fits onto out of trouble can make all the difference in the world.

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PREPPER PLANT ADVISOR
MAKING THE MOST

OF LAMBSQUARTERS
TEXT AND PHOTOS BY CHRISTOPHER NYERGES
Name: Lambsquarters served plain or with butter or other seasoning. The broth from this cooking is delicious.
Chenopodium album Lambsquarters leaves and tender stems can also be added to soups, stews, egg dishes,
Lambsquarters is a member of the goosefoot family, which comprises about 1,500 stir-fries and any dish for which you might add spinach.
species found worldwide, typically in desert, saline or alkaline soils. Most members Winnowed, mature black seeds can be added to bread and pancake batters, as well
of this family have leaves and seeds that can be eaten, although many have to be as soup dishes—akin to the use of quinoa seed (a close relative of lambsquarters).
processed if they are unpalatable raw.
NUTRITION: According to the USDA, an analysis of 100 grams ( 1/2 cup) of leaf
Description shows that it contains 4.2 grams of protein, 309 mg of calcium, 72 mg of phospho-
Lambsquarters is an annual plant that generally grows up to 3 or 4 feet tall; much rus, 11,600 I.U. of vitamin A and 80 mg of vitamin C. Another analysis (Duke and
taller in ideal soils. The leaves are roughly triangular in shape with a white, filmy Atchley) shows 684 mg of potassium per 100 grams. Also, 100 grams ( 1/2 cup) of
coating on each leaf that causes water and raindrops to bead up. The leaf shape the seed contains 1,036 mg of calcium, 340 mg of phosphorus, 64 mg of iron and
has been described as similar to a duck’s or goose’s foot—hence another common 1,687 mg of potassium.
name, “goosefoot.” The stalks are typically streaked with red, and there is usually a
bit of red in the axil of each leaf. The green flowers are inconspicuous. Advice for Growing
Lambsquarters is one of the easiest wild plants to grow. It will grow simply by
Areas Found scattering the seed in a garden area or along paths. You can also plant the seeds in
Lambsquarters is a European native that is now found throughout much of the flats or pots. If you allow a few to go to seed, you’ll find you have a continual supply
world. It prefers disturbed soils, such as along trails and roads, in gardens and on of lambsquarters plants.
the edges of farm lands. It can be found throughout North America and, in fact,
throughout most of the world. Cautions
Although lambsquarters leaf can be eaten raw, it is best eaten in a salad with a
When to Harvest/Availability dressing. If you simply pick a leaf from the plant and eat it, the high mineral content
Lambsquarters is an annual plant that sprouts up in late winter or spring, depending of the leaf can cause an irritation in the mouth and throat.
on the rainfall and temperatures. You can harvest the early leaves by pinching off
the tender tops and leaving the plant to continue its growth. Because the leaves do Recipes
not go bitter, you can continue to pinch off the leaves through its growing season. SOUR LAMB
Seeds are harvested in the late summer, when the plant has finished its growth and • 2 quarts lambsquarters leaves
is dying. It’s best to wait until the plant is browning before harvesting the seeds so • 1 pint sour cream
you know they’ll be mature. Seeds can be harvested en masse, allowed to dry and • Garlic powder
then winnowed in a shallow bowl. Steam the lambsquarters leaves and tops until tender. Strain and chop fine. Stir in
the sour cream, add a dash of garlic powder, and serve warm.
Uses
FOOD: Think of lambsquarters as a wild spinach that can be used raw or cooked GOULD MESA DELUXE
in any of the dishes for which you’d use spinach. The young leaves are tender • 3 cups lambsquarters leaves and tender stems, rinsed and diced
enough to be rinsed and added to salads. The leaves can be cooked like spinach and • 1 onion, sliced

‹ Below: Diced lambsquarters and
chopped dandelion stalks are part
of this spicy snack. (Photo: Brian
van der Brug/Los Angeles Times via
Getty Images)
• Butter, as needed
• Seasonings to taste (suggestion: use a dash of paprika and kelp)
Warm the butter in a cast-iron skillet. Add the onion and cook until tender. Add the lambsquarters
and cook until tender. Add seasonings and serve.
EARTH BREAD
• 1 cup lambsquarters seeds
• 1 cup flour of your choice (try acorn, wheat or amaranth)
• 3 tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp salt
• 3 Tbsp honey
• 1 egg
• 1 cup raw milk (you can substitute almond milk)
• 3 Tbsp oil
Mix all the ingredients well. Bake in an oiled pan for about 30 minutes in a 350 degree (F) oven.
You can also thin the batter with water and make pancakes.
About ASG’s Plant Advisor

Christopher Nyerges has been teaching ethnobotany since 1974. He is the author of Guide to
Wild Foods and Useful Plants and other books on the uses of wild plants. Nyerges has contributed
many articles to American Survival Guide.
WWW.SCHOOLOFSELF-RELIANCE.COM
› Far right: Lambsquarters in

the rain
› Near right: Lambsquarters

plants are being prepared in
the kitchen for the evening
meal.
› Bottom right: A view of harvested

lambsquarters seeds with a $1 coin for size
comparison

THE BIOSCARF STOPS GERMS AND
POLLUTANTS COLD!
TEXT AND PHOTOS BY CHRISTOPHER NYERGES
© GETTY IMAGES

I
recently had the opportunity to test a Bioscarf. Yes, it’s a scarf,
and everyone knows I like scarves. I’ve worn them all my life. I
used to love alpaca wool scarves and find their comfort impec-
cable. But then, I was given a Polartec scarf, a polyester product
that strives to duplicate wool without the itching or scratching.
I have come to prefer my Polartec scarves, which are also easy to clean
and dry.
I like long scarves too, but not the very long scarves that get in the
way. I cannot forget the story of the famous dancer, Isadora Duncan:
She loved very, very long silk scarves, and she enjoyed wearing them
in her convertible. She was 50 years old at the time she was driving
in September 1927 in Nice, France, and her enormously long scarf got
caught in the rear wheel and axle of her car. It was a ghastly accident
and she was strangled to death. (When you read about Duncan, you’d
think her great legacy is that she had a famous dancing career, but the
first thing you read about is that she was strangled to death by her
own scarf.) I don’t drive a convertible, and I cannot imagine wearing a
scarf that must have been 10 or 12 feet long. In addition, the Bioscarf is
actually good for you—not a potential hazard.
BIOSCARF ORIGIN
During a trip to China, the husband of the Bioscarf’s creator got sick—
most likely from the poor air quality (according to the Chinese doctor
who treated him). When asked how he could protect himself from
getting sick on future visits, the doctor suggested using a medical-type
mask. When the husband related the story to his wife, the idea for an
effective, but fashionable, form of protection was born.
› Top right: Smoke
TESTING THE BIOSCARF
from the 2017
The Bioscarf I tested measures 7 feet long Napa, California,
fires was bad
and 9 inches wide. That’s big, but not too big
enough to cause
to get caught in your car’s or motorcycle’s some people to
wear protective
wheels. However, bicyclists should be careful.
masks as they
I like its size. You have enough scarf to know walked down
the streets of San
you’re wearing a scarf and not forget it. It comes
Francisco.
in white, olive, black and camo, and because
I had the choice of color, I couldn’t resist the
camo. But its main selling point is not the size;
it’s what’s hidden inside the fabric.
The Bioscarf is actually a stylish air mask
that keeps your neck and head cozy while
filtering out unwanted air contaminants,
germs, second-hand smoke, pollen and other
I’VE HAD THE

OPPORTUNITY TO
WEAR THIS SCARF
IN COLD WEATHER
AND FOUND IT TO BE
A BIT WARMER THAN
A COMPARABLE
› Bottom right:
SCARF. THIS IS Scarves are a com-
mon accessory
PROBABLY BECAUSE in the winter. The
Bioscarf’s three
IT’S NOT JUST A layers not only
provide additional
SINGLE LAYER OF warmth, they also
offer the added
FABRIC; IT HAS bonus of an inte-
grated N95-level
THREE. air filtration layer.
‹ Left: The Bioscarf

looks like any other
scarf on the street,
but it can give you
extra protection
against smoke and
other airborne pol-
lutants and hazards.

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‹ Left: Lufthansa
In addition to doing its job effectively, the
flight crew members
wear face masks Bioscarf is made from sustainable materials.
as they make their
Post-consumer, recycled PET water bottles go
way through Hong
Kong's airport in the into the polyester fabric, while the signature
wake of the massive
labels are made from recycled PVC. It is also
Severe Acute Respi-
ratory Syndrome built to be long lasting and reusable, meaning
(SARS) outbreak
fewer disposable air filters in the landfill. And
there in 2003.
this filter is reusable: Simply wash the scarf
by hand after use from time to time.
If you’re in a situation for which you might
otherwise put on a face mask, you can just
snugly wrap the scarf over your mouth and
nose and breathe through it. Maybe you’re an
allergy sufferer, visiting somewhere with poor
air quality; or you’re on a bus or plane, and a
lot of passengers are sneezing and coughing.
Maybe you’re on a campout, and the smoke
from the campfire is excessive. The Bioscarf
will give you some protection.
I like the multi-use aspect of the Bioscarf.
allergens and irritants. This can protect you from colds, flus, pneumonia, tuberculosis and allergic When I’m wearing mine, it gives me the feel-
reactions. Bioscarf is the first scarf with an N95 air filter layer built in. ing of being protected, as if I’m living in a Mad
‹ Below: Long a
When tested by Nelson Labs (a leading global provider of medical and pharmaceutical Max, Book of Eli or Blade Runner world. Of
familiar sight in
tests) against normal masks and respirators, the Bioscarf outperformed some of the most many Asian cities, course, that’s a crazy idea, because everyone
medical mask use
popular mask filters available today. It had a 99.75 percent average filtration efficiency of in those futuristic, dystopian societies would
in the United States
0.3 micron test particles. is on the rise. probably be wearing rags. Still, the Bioscarf

IF YOU’RE IN A SITUATION FOR
WHICH YOU MIGHT OTHERWISE
PUT ON A FACE MASK, YOU CAN
JUST SNUGLY WRAP THE SCARF
OVER YOUR MOUTH AND NOSE
AND BREATHE THROUGH IT.
EDT® EDT®
SHARPSHOOTER DESIGNATED
MARKSMAN
EDT® HEAVY GUNNER

IF A MIL-SPEC TRIGGER AND
A COMPETITION TRIGGER
HAD A BABY
USE COUPON CODE “ASG” AT HIPERFIRE.COM FOR FREE SHIPPING!
www.hiperfire.com 651.762.2800 @HighPerformanceFirearms
Follow us on
‹ An arriving passenger at Los Angeles International Airport wears a
face mask because of concerns about the possible swine flu outbreak
in the area in 2009.
is one of those multi-purpose garments you’ll be glad you purchased.

It’s functional, stylish in a way that stays below the radar and provides
a layer of protection other scarves just don’t provide. The Bioscarf costs www.facebook.com/knivesillustrated
about $45 and is available at the company’s website (Eartheasy.com)
and Amazon.
www.instagram.com/knivesillustrated
INNOCUOUS APPEARANCE
No one blinks an eye when I wear my Bioscarf. To the average passerby,
it is just another scarf. You don’t look as if you’re wearing combat or
BIOSCARF SPECS
• Length: 84 inches
• Width: 9 inches
• Material: 100 percent recycled polyester
• Washing instructions: Hand wash only
MSRP: $45
› Above: Angelo
Cervera was THE BIOSCARF IS ACTUALLY A STYLISH AIR MASK THAT
comfortable
while wearing the KEEPS YOUR NECK AND HEAD COZY WHILE FILTERING OUT
Bioscarf in a smoky
environment. UNWANTED AIR CONTAMINANTS, GERMS, SECOND-HAND
SMOKE, POLLEN AND OTHER ALLERGENS AND IRRITANTS.
THIS CAN PROTECT YOU FROM COLDS, FLUS, PNEUMONIA,
TUBERCULOSIS AND ALLERGIC REACTIONS.
medical gear. Even though I have been wearing USE AND CARE
the camouflage version, it’s not too different Although I have no connection to the Bioscarf’s manufacturer, I have been asked a lot of ques-
from what I ordinarily wear, so no one regards tions by those who’ve seen me wearing it. One person asked how I would know if the filtering
it as “militaristic.” Besides, camo has really aspect was still working. I thought that question was a bit unusual, so I asked them how they
become a fashion statement, so it’s now a
normal fashion choice for many.
Still, the camo version consists of dark tones
of green and brown and works well with most
wardrobes. If you don’t care for camo, choose
one of the solid colors.
COMFORT
I’ve had the opportunity to wear this scarf in
cold weather and found it to be a bit warmer
than a comparable scarf. This is probably
› Right: The
because it’s not just a single layer of fabric; it
Bioscarf looks like
any other scarf on has three. The scarf is not thick, however, and it
the street, but it
has the comfortable feel of a “normal” scarf. Its
can give you extra
protection against length is a bit longer than most scarves, so you
smoke and other
have just a bit more fabric that you can wrap
airborne pollutants
and hazards. over your head or around your neck or face.

Follow us on
‹ Julie Balaa shows that the Bioscarf is long but not excessively so.
would know whether or not a standard face mask was still filtering air. Of course,
similar to a water filter, the sure sign is reduced airflow or increasing difficulty
getting air through the scarf. After a day of work on a dusty construction site or
wearing such a mask in an area with very high air pollution, you just put on another
mask. You never really know if it’s “full” or not. www.facebook.com/
In the case of the Bioscarf, you simply hand wash it in warm water and let it americansurvivalguidemagazine
dry. The inner layer of the scarf is the filtering layer, and washing the scarf helps
instagram: americansurvivalguide
remove any trapped particulate matter. Based on your usage, you’ll have to use
your own judgment as to when and how often to wash the scarf. Remember,
the scarf has a much greater surface area than a mask’s filter, so it would make
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July 2019
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‹ Julie Balaa covers her mouth with the Bioscarf before wrapping it around her
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‹ Shelby Kolar holds the Bioscarf in place as she gets some help donning it as a
filter. The Advertiser Index is provided as a service to American Survival Guide readers.
American Survival Guide is not responsible for omissions or typographical errors on names or page numbers.

IF YOU LIVE IN ONE OF THESE AREAS OF HIGHER AIR POLLUTION
OR ARE CONCERNED ABOUT EXPOSURE TO AIRBORNE
COMMUNICABLE ILLNESSES AND DISEASES ... THE BIOSCARF
MIGHT BE JUST WHAT YOU NEED.
sense to use multiple areas of the scarf before the filter material. ‹ Members of a
family living near the
having to clean it. (That said, if you’ve just I was also asked if there was an “inside” and “outside” to the scarf so that if you needed to use 2017 Thomas wildfire
completed an intercontinental flight, it might it as an actual filter, you’d know which side to breathe through. There is no difference. If you’re wear protective
masks as they walk
be a good time to give it a quick wash.) wearing the scarf and need to protect yourself from smoke or fumes, just wrap the scarf over along a street in Ven-
The manufacturer instructions say to hand your mouth and nose. tura, California.
wash the Bioscarf, but I’d suggest warm water Is it possible to breathe in trapped pollutants if you wear the scarf backward from the previous
with a simple detergent without colors, dyes way you wore it? In the simplest terms, once you breathe through the scarf, there are clean
or fragrances. (I use Ivory dishwashing liquid.) and unclean sides, so you should always wear it with the same orientation—at least between S O U R C E S
Gently squeeze the entire length of the scarf washings. The filter layer is the barrier between you and the impurities it protects you from,
Amazon
while it is in warm, soapy water. Rinse it in so why would you orient the scarf so that the filtered impurities are on the same side as your https://www.Amazon.com
fresh water and hang it in the sun to dry. mouth and nose?
The manufacturer attaches a label to every Research over the past two decades has shown that short-term exposure to common air Bioscarf
https://www.Bioscarf.com
Bioscarf with instructions to hand wash only pollution worsens existing lung and heart disease and is linked to diseases such as asthma,
and not to dry clean, tumble dry, use bleach bronchitis and cancer. Eartheasy Distribution
or iron the scarf. Be careful not to exert too Long-term exposure increases the risks. If you live in one of these areas of higher air pollution (888) 451-6752
https://EartheasyDistribution.com
much lateral pull on the scarf, because you or are concerned about exposure to airborne communicable illnesses and diseases—or you’re
might stretch and decrease the efficiency of simply looking for a soft, warm scarf—the Bioscarf might be just what you need.

ONLINE
GO VISIT US
WWW.ASGMAG.COM
A
BY BRIAN M. MORRIS
t American Survival Guide, we always say that the time to prepare for it simply won’t run. Now, before the winds howl, is the time to pull it out of storage,
an emergency is before it happens. check or replace last year’s fuel and give it a general service so that it is ready if you
Following that logic, we think it is important for all Americans to need it this year.
take a break from their normal summer activities, just for a short time, This is also a great time to make sure everyone in your family knows where to find
in order to begin or check their plans and preparations for the 2019 utility connections, such as your breaker panel and main gas valve. Be sure they
hurricane and cyclone seasons. understand that these might need to be turned off if it looks as if your home is in the
This year’s Atlantic hurricane season begins on June 1 and runs through November 30. path of a massive storm.
The Eastern Pacific season starts on May 15 and ends on November 30. That’s not to If you don’t already have a disaster kit, there is no better time than right now to
say there won’t be any hurricanes outside that window. These monster storms not only put one together. Chances are, you already have many of the components scattered
affect the coastal states, they can also impact almost the entire country in the forms around your home. The kit should include food, water, flashlights, batteries, first aid
of tornadoes, torrential rains, massive flooding, power and gas shortages, and billions kits and all the things you would need to survive on your own without being resupplied
of dollars in damage and lost productivity. Great numbers of citizens, often caught for at least a week or two.
unprepared, could be displaced, injured or die as a result of these predictable storms. If you live in a more populated area, first responders and emergency aid will likely
Each year, we have an opportunity to take the steps to protect our loved ones and reach your location after disaster strikes sooner than if you live in a sparsely populated
property. For example, if you don’t have a generator, take this opportunity to acquire rural area. That doesn’t mean they will quickly make everything right, but rescue and
one. Many 5,000- to 10,000-watt generators can be had for under $1,000. That is restoration efforts will occur more quickly than if you live in a remote location in the
plenty of electricity to power your refrigerator, lights, water pump and many other country, where the return to normalcy could take weeks or longer. Remember: It took
household devices in the event of a prolonged power outage. If money is tight, you can over one year to restore power to some of the more remote regions of Puerto Rico.
go to yard sales or online to find bargains on used or reconditioned generators. Few natural threats are as predictable as hurricane seasons, so take advan-
Plan to keep at least a week’s supply of fuel on hand—but remember to either rotate tage of the advance notice now. The best time to prepare for trouble is before it
it out every few months or add a fuel stabilizer to help keep it fresh until it’s needed. comes your way.
If you already own a generator, you are ahead of the game, as long as you’ve kept Don’t be a statistic; start preparing so you can have the peace of mind to know you
it in good running condition. It won’t be any good to you if you let the fuel go stale or did all you could to prepare for the anger of the storm.
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How-to: Fire Protection 101

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‹ Near left: Stalking

identify and use wild plants at that time. And

THE FTC INTERVENES

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A survivalist? No, although he loved to camp and fish.

16 AMERICAN SURVIVAL GUIDE [JULY 2019]

[ASGMAG.COM] AMERICAN SURVIVAL GUIDE 17

BOOKS AND HOW GIBBONS INFLUENCED ME

› Near right: A view

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18 AMERICAN SURVIVAL GUIDE [JULY 2019]

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CAUSE AND EFFECT

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22 AMERICAN SURVIVAL GUIDE [JULY 2019]

A quick look at recent wildfire activity in the

[ASGMAG.COM] AMERICAN SURVIVAL GUIDE 23

Local Fire Department: Whether they are paid professionals

24 AMERICAN SURVIVAL GUIDE [JULY 2019]

› Near and far right:

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26 AMERICAN SURVIVAL GUIDE [JULY 2019]

ALL DAY SURVIVAL

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Doom and Bloom Medical and Alton First Aid are

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› Near right: After

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30 AMERICAN SURVIVAL GUIDE [JULY 2019]

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› Near right: A little

32 AMERICAN SURVIVAL GUIDE [JULY 2019]

PER LEAD STAR, THE BUFFER ASSEMBLY SOFTENS RECOIL AND

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34 AMERICAN SURVIVAL GUIDE [JULY 2019]

36 AMERICAN SURVIVAL GUIDE [JULY 2019]

ong gone are the days of peaceful

© GETTY IMAGES © GETTY IMAGES

38 AMERICAN SURVIVAL GUIDE [JULY 2019]

[ASGMAG.COM] AMERICAN SURVIVAL GUIDE 39

› Near right: A store

© GETTY IMAGES © GETTY IMAGES

Now, if we are going to be honest, these per-

40 AMERICAN SURVIVAL GUIDE [JULY 2019]

the deeds they attribute to members of that

EMOTIONS CAN RULE THE DAY © GETTY IMAGES

You must remember that when it comes to

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