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If you like to hunt, camp, fish, or other outdoors activities, you know what it means to survive in the cold and deal with the elements. Perhaps you’ve been in a “survival situation” and the only reason you made it out alive was because you were able to jump in your truck and head back to your luxurious life of comfort.

What if you were stuck in the wilderness, though? What if you got lost in the middle of nowhere? How long would you last? Could you survive in the wilderness?

Here are some basic survival supplies to keep on hand, plus some wilderness survival tips. Keep more in the back of your truck or whatever vehicle you normally use on outdoor trips.

#1: Keep a source of light on hand. A flashlight is one example, but candles are great too. But remember, such a resource needs replenishment. Flashlights need additional batteries (rechargeable ones won’t help if you have no power source!) and candles require a lighter or matches. Keep the extra batteries and lighters or matches in your kit. Your best bet is a solar powered flashlight as well, but matches/lighters can come in handy for other reasons (like starting a fire) so keep those on hand regardless.

#2: Keep extra blankets and clothing ready; you never know when it will get cold or when you might get wet. Store everything in a waterproof bag. There are space bags and waterproof bags that can keep your supplies from being degraded by the elements. This is essential.

#3: A first-aid kit is essential. Off-the-shelf kits are good, so buy one of those. However, they might not have enough supplies for a long period of time (and buying multiples from the store would become expensive). After buying one first-aid kit, note what it contains and buy large amounts of each supply from a discount or dollar store, and keep them in a small box. Label it First Aid in case you or anyone else needs it and forgets what’s inside. Even basic toiletries like tissue, soap, shampoo, etc. can be good to include.

#4: Non-perishable food and a way to open it (like canned goods and a can opener) will be crucial. Avoid boxed items or other products that might be tainted by insects or weather, in time. Don’t forget water. Rinse used plastic milk jugs thoroughly, and refill with tap water.

#5 Keep a universal army knife in your kit. You might want to include a larger knife and some heavy-grade scissors.

A universal global phone of some sort, GPS device (or at least a cell phone) is important as well. Being able to phone for help would be very important. Bring extra batteries!

Wilderness survival is nothing to laugh at - if you are ever stuck in the wilderness, you’ll be glad if you took the time to prepare yourself for the possibility beforehand. Incidentally, you can also attend a wilderness college / school and learn skills that will help you survive in the wild.

With the vast variety of knives on the market, it can be difficult to know which knife you need. Choosing a knife is not hard, though, if you know what you’re looking at.

Step One: What Will You Use The Knife For?

When preparing to buy a knife, the first question to ask yourself is: what you are going to use it for?

For example, is this going to be a blade you’ll use to cut open packages, to cut through string or rope, and other normal daily uses such as these?

Are you a knife collector? If so, you may be in the market for unique or specially made knives.

Are you going to use your knife for basic survival or in a situation involving the armed forces? A high grade knife might be in order, as it could save your life in certain situations such as these!

Will the knife you purchase be used for cutting your catch after fishing or hunting? Some knives are made specifically for this usage.

Is your application more related to basic outdoor activities such as camping, mountain climbing, hiking, etc? Your budget may be a factor, as the sharpness and long-term durability these types of knives may not be as critical as some other purposes. That may vary on how often you engage in such activity as well.

Step Two: Fixed Blade Or Folding Blade?

A primary feature that you should think about is whether you need a fixed-blade or whether a folding knife would suit your purpose.

A fixed-blade can be very reliable and can be used immediately. There is no folding mechanism to break or malfunction, but they are not as compact.

Folding knives have a blade that locks in place, are typically safer and easier to carry, and can offer better dependability. Some are simple enough to open with one hand using a blade-hole, thumb-stud or other similar feature.

Step Three: What Materials Should The Knife Be Manufactured Using?

First, look at the materials out of which the handle is manufactured. You want a good strong grip no matter what your application will be. Comfort could be a factor, so look for a knife that fits the size and shape of your hands and will not be a strain or cause cramping after any potentially long periods of use.

You might also consider if its handle is weather-proof or not. This could be an issue if your application will take place primarily outdoors.

Finally, you will want to be sure that the handle is appealing aesthetically. If this will be your primary knife, this becomes an even more crucial factor to consider as you’ll be looking at this knife a lot (and perhaps showing it off to friends or colleagues).

Secondly, the blade itself needs to be made of material capable of: preserving its edge after extended use, defending against corrosion, and being simple to re-sharpen. There are several blades at a range of price points which will offer such benefits at varying degrees.

Final Consideration: The Warranty

The last thing to consider is what type of warranty is offered. Depending on the dollar investment made, you may want to be sure the manufacturer will back up their product should it ever stop working at peak performance or in the manner in which is intended and/or promised.

Conclusion

Follow these tips, and you will be well on your way to choosing the knife that is what you need. If you need any help choosing a knife, please don’t hesitate to contact us.