Five ways to carry survival tools on a belt

Some of the best survival tools are ordinary items adapted to different uses. Check out the Okay’s Key Safe. by Leon Pantenburg My dad  was a carpenter at the Iowa State University residence halls. During an average day, he’d be all over several different halls on the widespread campus, fixing things. That required a lot …

Get a durable back-to-school backpack with the STM Drifter

Backpacks are almost mandatory back-to-school equipment, since they tend to wear out.  Here is a high quality, durable backpack that’s worth looking at. by Leon Pantenburg I was not paid to do this review, and there is no advertising or sponsorship relationship between SurvivalCommonSense.com and STM. I have been using this backpack continually for over …

Best extreme sports headlamp? Black Diamond Icon review

A quality headlight is a vital part of an emergency kit. The Black Diamond Icon is a professional model that might be what you’re looking for. by Leon Pantenburg I was not paid to do this review, and at the time of publication, Black Diamond has no sponsorship relationship with SurvivalCommonSense.com I’ve been using Black …

Survival fishing: How to make a trotline from paracord

This technique is shown to provide survival skills information. Check with your local fish and game regs to make sure it’s legal where you live! A trotline is nothing more than a string of baited hooks. Using a trotline allows you to fish for food while doing something else. Here is how to improvise one …

Review: Best everyday carry knife? We check out the L.T. Wright ‘Next Gen’

After much success with his Genesis bushcraft knife, L.T. Wright got lots of requests for a smaller version. The result is the “Next Gen.” by Leon Pantenburg Disclaimer:  I bought this knife and was not paid for writing this review. I carry a knife every day. Which knife depends on what I’m doing. For work …

Survival Myth Busted: Finding directions by tree moss

One of the pervasive folk legends about finding directions  in the wilderness or woods, is that moss grows on a certain side of a tree or rock. Just find your way by observing where the moss is,  according to this theory, and you won’t get lost. According to my compass, the moss was on the west side of this stump. …

Survival Myth Busted: Finding directions by tree moss

One of the pervasive folk legends about finding directions  in the wilderness or woods, is that moss grows on a certain side of a tree or rock. Just find your way by observing where the moss is,  according to this theory, and you won’t get lost. According to my compass, the moss was on the west side of this stump. …

Make a portable privy or ‘How to do number two’ in the woods

One of the most intimidating aspects of the outdoors for novice campers or beginners is very basic: Where’s the bathroom? Where will you do Number Two? by Leon Pantenburg When you gotta go, you gotta go. It doesn’t matter if you’re at the shopping mall or in the backcountry – when nature calls, you must …

Survival kit tin cup reduces weight, bulk in emergency kit

Survival gear doesn’t need to be elaborate or expensive. Some of the best items are common, easily-found products you may already have. One of those items is a large metal cup. Here’s why you need one.  by Leon Pantenburg I slogged along in the ranks, Springfield slung over my shoulder, headed toward the sound of …

How to make simple, easy homemade energy bars

A good way to steer your kids toward eating right is to teach them to cook. While hunger is generally the best sauce in the outdoors, a few good recipes can make the outdoor culinary experience even more fun. by Leon Pantenburg When it comes to stocking up on survival food, the best, most inexpensive and tastiest …