American Survival Guide September 2017

HOW-TO: Utilize Your Dog's Instincts
AMERICAN SURVIVAL GUIDE
Vol. 6 Issue 9
OBSERVE,
ADAPT,
SURVIVE
VOLUME 6 - ISSUE 9
ESCAPE NATURES FURY

BY PREPPING NOW
NATIONAL
PREPAREDNESS
MONTH
Helpful Resources for Troubled Times
YOUR PREPPER
ACTION PLAN
Codifying Critical Procedures Before the Crisis
BEATING AROUND HOMEMADE

THE BUSH EMP DEFENSES
DIGITAL ISSUES AVAILABLE AT WWW.ENGAGEDMEDIAINC.COM Field Test: 3 Sargent Edged Tools Build your own Faraday cage
U.S. $8.99 SEPTEMBER 2017 DISPLAY UNTIL 8/15/17
SEPTEMBER 2017
09
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ASG_1709_3.indd 3 6/5/17 4:48 AM

FEATURES
14
NATIONAL PREPAREDNESS
REVIEWS
MONTH 22
Helpful resources for times of trouble BEATING AROUND THE
By Steven Paul Barlow
BUSH
38 Testing three Sargent Edged Tools in
the field
FORMULATE YOUR By Kevin Estela
PREPPER ACTION PLAN
Codify critical procedures before 76
the crisis. CENTER LINE SYSTEMS
By Will Dabbs, M.D.
ANSWERS THE CALL
66 Six products that can make your
life easier
OBSERVE, ADAPT, SURVIVE By Kevin Estela
Studying your environment pays big
survival dividends. 110
By Dana Benner
HANDY HATCHET
84 Klecker Knives take-anywhere axe head
By Steven Paul Barlow
BACK TO THE BASICS
Mastering lost skills could save your life. 120
By Peter Suciu
THIS SMALL PISTOL
HANDLES A BIG ROLE
Why I chose the XD-S 3.3 as my
HOW-TO sole sidearm
By Dana Benner
30 22
HOMEMADE EMP DEFENSES
Build your own Faraday cage. 48 94
By Jim Jeffries
48
TRANSFORM A VINTAGE
FILE INTO A CELTIC DAGGER
You dont need a forge to make a knife.
By Larry Schwartz
94
SURVIVE WITH YOUR K9
Thwarting the end of mankind with
mans best friend
By Ryan Lee Price
AMERICAN SURVIVAL GUIDE (ISSN 2331-8937) is published 12 times a yearJanuary, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November,
Decemberby Engaged Media, Inc., 17890 Sky Park Circle, Suite 250, Irvine, CA 92614. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to American Survival Guide c/o VSI, Inc. 905 Kent Street,
Liberty, MO 64068. 2017 by Engaged Media, Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction of any material from this issue in whole or in part is strictly prohibited. GST #855050365RT001
Canada Post: Publications Mail Agreement #40612608. Return undeliverable Canadian addresses to: PITNEY BOWES, INC. P.O. Box 25542 London, ON N6C 6B2, Canada.
4 AMERICAN SURVIVAL GUIDE [SEPTEMBER 2017]
ASG-1709-TOC.CX.indd 4 6/14/17 12:45 AM

8
GEAR
GUIDE
58
DOG GEAR
Kit out your K9.
By Frank Warren
66 38
14
102
SELF-HELP ESSENTIALS
Key emergency items to help keep you alive
By Michael D'Angona
DEPARTMENTS
6
FIRST WORDS
8
NEW PRODUCTS
130
9/11 TRIBUTE
58
120 110
Some articles in this issue might

include stock images that are the
property of Getty Images.
[ASGMAG.COM] AMERICAN SURVIVAL GUIDE 5
ASG-1709-TOC.CX.indd 5 6/14/17 12:46 AM

VOL. 6 ISSUE 09
EDITORIAL
Doug Jeffrey Editorial Director
Mike McCourt Editor
Amy Maclean Managing Editor
DESIGN
David A. de la Torre Jr. Art Director
CONTRIBUTORS
Steven Paul Barlow, Dana Benner, Michael D'Angona, Will Dabbs, M.D.,
Kevin Estela, Jim Jeffries, Ryan Lee Price, Larry Schwartz, Peter Suciu, Frank Warren
PREPPING IS A
ADVERTISING
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John Bartulin Account Executive
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John Cabral Advertising Design
Eric Gomez Advertising Traffic Coordinator
Gennifer Merriday Advertising Traffic Coordinator
MARKETING
Elise Portale Content Marketing Manager
A
Brooke Sanders Content Marketing Specialist
Eric Surber Content Marketing Specialist
Michael Chadwick Digital Marketing & Media Coordinator
Andrew Dunbar Videographer
mericans are generally competi- then some. If we end up on away turf, we could be OPERATIONS
Robert Short IT Manager
tive people. Most of us follow one subjected to deadly disadvantages. Parveen Kumar Newsstand and Circulation Analyst
or more sports and have favorite Whats even more challenging is that while we Shailesh Khandelwal Subscriptions Manager
Alex Mendoza Administrative Assistant
teams we want to see win. In share useful information and insights as a likeminded Victoria Van Vlear Intern Program Manager
many cases, our teams have rivals, group of concerned citizens, we are potential EDITORIAL, PRODUCTION & SALES OFFICE
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our sports heroes, we savor the sweet taste of victory, are no specified or dedicated sidelines, dugouts or www.facebook.com/eembybeckett
and we suffer in the misery of defeat. We defend locker rooms to provide safe spaces where we can AMERICAN SURVIVAL GUIDE (ISSN 2331-8937) is published in January, February,
March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November and
our team when its down, and we celebrate when regroup or relax. December by Engaged Media Inc., LLC, 17890 Sky Park Circle, Suite 250, Irvine,
it wins. With spending on licensed sports products Granted, many of us have plans in place with others CA 92614. POSTMASTER: SEND ADDRESS CHANGES TO AMERICAN
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2017 by Engaged Media, Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction of
problem spending money to show the world where vival in serious situations will be all the other teams any material from this issue in whole or in part is strictly prohibited.
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served me well, but Id prefer those learned from In addition, this playing field is not level. And there Letters to the editor, new products or to contribute a story or
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This magazine is purchased by the buyer with the understanding that
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Editors note: In our July issue, we mistakenly labelled the Fat Rope Stick as a Fiddleback Forge product. This great GST #855050365RT001
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ASG-1709-FIRST WORDS.indd 6 6/13/17 2:29 AM

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ASG-1708-Major Surplus 5/9/17 10:05 AM Page 1
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ASG-1708-Major Surplus 5/9/17 10:05 AM Page 2
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MRE - THE BASIC Gas Masks and Gas Mask Filters are not for sale outside
of the U.S.A. Sold as a novelty item only. Gas masks,
23" X 3" sterile gauze pad
#09-9177 | Weighs 12.74 .lbs | Measures 17"L x 10"W x 8"H
filter and accessories are Not Returnable or Refundable. 11" Adhesive tape roll
Quality control is the highest priority!
Each Full Case contains a variety of
59.95 53 PIECE FIRST AID KIT
different entres, crackers, snack RADIAC METER IM-179/U #10-2223 | Weighs 0.50 .lbs | Measures 6"L x 5"W x 2"H
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$
49 ea .95
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This 53 piece first aid kit from Lifeline is packaged in
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STEEL FRAME CAMO PACK SPECIAL #11-0449 | Weighs 0.60 .lbs supplies needed for minor medical
#08-0947 | Weighs 5.11 .lbs |
Measures 15"L x 8"W x 26"H.
BUY Meter reads .02 to 200 r/hr has
a green-travel / yellow caution
emergencies at home or on the
trail. Great in the car or tent.
$
12 .95
ea
/ red-take cover scale also. The
Features a .75"tubular steel
frame welded at all
meter features a battery / circuit 3 lb. EMERGENCY
stress points. Main
test button and a read button.
Easy carry compact size 3" X
BLANKET
compartment has #02-0310 | 54L x 84W
a drawstring cover
2" X 1" uses 1.5 volt battery and a 6 volt
battery both are included. All meters
159.95 15.95
that snugs down the
are circuit checked but not checked
contents which are
further protected by the
elastic, adjustable lid
against a radioactive source. A list of
calibration labs is included with meter.
79
$ .95
ea
3 pound
blanket made of 50% wool. Measures
54" x 84" and individually wrapped.
$
9 ea .95
that has a rear zippered

compartment and two
top lashing straps for
HOMEOWNERS KIT
#08-0433 | Weighs 8.40 .lbs | Measures 14" x 8" Dia.
jacket or bedroll. Padded
waist belt with mesh Kit contains 2 RPD multipurpose units
measuring 8" x 98". 6 Dam-it-up bags
back, padded adjustable
MSRP 59.95 measuring 14" x 26" each. 49.95
shoulder straps with sternum strap,
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$
29 ea .95 in its own carry bag. $
29 ea .95
SPECIAL BUY
COMBAT SUB COMMANDER
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65 .00
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Hides discreetly within reach. An injection-
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TPR handle is strong and textured, complete polyethylene no-see-um mesh with satin skirt and reinforced
with a brass lanyard hole. Razor-sharp corners with ties. Complete with 4 wood cot poles. Mosquito
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AUS-6 stainless steel blades are double
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$
12 .95
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THOUSANDS OF ITEMS ON SALE AT www.MajorSurplus.com
ASG_1709_11.indd 11 6/5/17 3:46 AM

7 9 11
5ive Star Gear 5ive Star Gear Buck Model 110
Bug-Out Transport Woobie 3 in 1 Automatic Knife
Sling Bag Blanket Everyone should carry a knife, so it might as well be
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Travel light, but well prepared, with this incredible Versatility is the name of the game with this three- 110 Auto fits all these criteria. The 110 Auto has the
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multi-purpose tool, emergency sleeping bag, steel blankets to make a massive, double-sized protective lock release at the rear of the handle. Check laws in your
firestarter and much more supply your Core-4 unit. Made from heavy-duty ripstop material, this area for restrictions on automatic knives.
survival essentials when the worst scenarios strike. blanket will stand up to the harsh conditions of the
Extra goodies include a map compass, sewing kit, outdoors and will serve you well for years. Available Features
wire saw (and, most importantly: a two-pack of in black or ranger green. Blade length: 3 inches
toilet tissue). Stores easily when not in use. Weight: 7.1 ounces
Features Blade steel: 420HC
Features 210T ripstop polyester Includes leather belt poucH
Easy to carry and store Open size: 86x64 inches
Basic supplies for one person for three days Weight: 1.9 pounds MSRP
32 essential items Extra security snap closures $200
Lightweight sling bag Included stuff sack URL
Supplies the Core-4 of survival needs www.BuckKnives.com
MSRP
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URL
URL www.5iveStarGear.com
www.5iveStarGear.com
10 12
Coghlans Insect Leatherman
8 Parachute Skeletool KB Knife
Hammock
The name, Leatherman, typically brings to
5ive Star Gear mind complex tools, featuring every imaginable
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good to go. Encased and secured within a durable Parachute Hammock. This easy-to-construct
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cotton tinder, this mini kit will get a fire going to cook you go. Included straps and carabiners ensure a
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Survival Tube is available in black, coyote or olive drab. age pocket, zip up, and get the rest you need to Blade length: 2.6 inches
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ASG-1709-PRODUCTS.CX.indd 12 6/14/17 12:49 AM

9
10 12
8
11
ASG-1709-PRODUCTS.indd 13 6/13/17 2:38 AM

THESE RESOURCES CAN HELP YOU
PREPARE FOR EMERGENCIES 24/7/365.
STORY BY STEVEN PAUL BARLOW / PHOTOS COURTESY OF FEMA
NATIONAL
PREPAREDNESS
MONTH
ASG-1709-MONTH.indd 14 6/6/17 12:17 AM

S
I
f youre reading this magazine, I turn your town into a wasteland. Terrorist
assume you are an independent acts in the form of chemical, biological and
person who has taken primary radiological attacks are realistic possibilities
responsibility for your own survival. these days. Emergency services (police,
You know that you are the first, fire, EMS) are stretched to the limit in the
and last, lines of defense for your own aftermath of disasters.
safety and security. Communities have to pull together;
But we all appreciate a little help they must get involved. And, as much
sometimes. as we might be reluctant to admit it,
Catastrophic weather eventshurricanes, sometimes, we even need the help of
floods, wildfires, tornadoes, blizzardscan the federal government. Still, even under
ASG-1709-MONTH.indd 15 6/6/17 12:18 AM

the best circumstances, the response of
government agencies to any disaster can
still mean youll have to fend for yourself
for a number of days, or perhaps longer,
before help can reach you.
GETTING THE WORD OUT

You know this; and youve stockpiled
supplies and created an emergency plan.
But what about your elderly grandmother
or your disabled next-door neighbor? The
Federal Emergency Management Agency
(FEMA), now operating under the Depart-
ment of Homeland Security (DHS), wants
your help in getting the word out to your
friends and neighbors that we all need to be
prepared for any number of calamities.
To do this, DHS has designated each September Earthquakes,
since 2004 as National Preparedness Month. such as the 6.0
magnitude quake
According to FEMAs website, that hit Napa, Cali-
September was chosen as National fornia, in 2014, can
have long-lasting,
Preparedness Month, as the tragedies devastating effects.
of September 11, 2001 highlighted to (Photo: FEMA/Eilis
Maynard)
the nation the importance of being pre-
pared. Also, September has been chosen
CERT MEMBERS LEARN ABOUT
Below: Inspectors
partly because the peak of the Atlantic from the Environ-
mental Protection
hurricane season is in mid-September.
FEMA Spokesperson Stephanie Moffett
Agency (EPA) check
for potentially toxic
DISASTER-PREPAREDNESS FOR
noted that National Preparedness Month
contaminants after
severe fires burned
HAZARDS THAT MAY IMPACT THEIR
(NPM) is a nationwide effort to increase
public awareness about the importance
homes in Middletown,
California, in 2015. AREA AND ARE TRAINED IN BASIC
DISASTER-RESPONSE SKILLS
(Photo: FEMA/Adam
of preparing for emergencies, including DuBrowa)
ASG-1709-MONTH.indd 16 6/6/17 12:18 AM

EXPLORING THE WEBSITE
A GOOD WAY FOR According to the FEMA website, only 57 percent of Americans surveyed in 2009 by the
Citizen Corps said they had disaster supplies set aside; and only 44 percent said their
A PERSON TO GET families had developed a plan for emergencies. A good way for a person to get started
STARTED WITH Below: FEMA
officials take part in a
with emergency preparations is to explore FEMAs website specifically for that purpose
at www.Ready.gov.
EMERGENCY PrepareAthon event
in New York City in Moffett explained, Ready.gov provides free, easy-to-use guides, checklists and
2015 to encourage
PREPARATIONS people to prepare for
possible emergency
resources to help individuals get, and stay, prepared.
Besides setting aside emergency supplies, Moett noted that the website also recommends
IS TO EXPLORE situations. (Photo:
FEMA/K.C. Wilsey) some other early steps to take:
FEMAS WEBSITE
... AT WWW.
READY.GOV.
natural disasters and potential terrorist

attacks, and to encourage individuals to
take action to prepare themselves and
their families. National Preparedness
Month promotes activities across the
nation to encourage individuals to get
an emergency supply kit, make a family
emergency plan, become informed about
different threats and get involved in
preparing their communities for possible
emergencies by hosting or supporting
drills, exercises and discussions.
While the drive to get the word out
is an ongoing effort, everything is
heightened during September.
Each year, National Preparedness Month has
an overarching theme, and for 2017, it will be
Dont Wait. Communicate, Moett added.
Emergency equip-
ment is on display
at the Marshfield,
Massachusetts, Safety
Day in 2014. Events
such as this show
citizens the range of
emergency services
available via various
agencies for deploy-
ment during disasters.
(Photo: FEMA/Eilis
Maynard)
ASG-1709-MONTH.CX.indd 17 6/8/17 10:46 PM

THE TRUTH
IS, WERE NOT
POWERLESS
WE CAN TAKE
ACTIONS
NOW TO HELP
PREPARE FOR
THE WORST.
Sign up for local text alerts and warn-
ings, and download weather apps to your
smartphone so you know when danger is
approaching and can stay informed as you
weather the storm in a safe place.
Develop an emergency communica-
tion plan for your family. You might not
be with your loved ones when disaster
strikes, so have a communications plan Preparing an emergency kit should be a family event so that everyone knows what the kit contains and where it will be kept.
in place so you know how to reach each (Photo: FEMA/Zachary Kittrie)
other and where to meet up when
conditions are safe.
Develop an emergency plan for your
pet. Have a go-bag with pet supplies (i.e.,
food and medication) in a safe place next
to yours in case you and your pet have to
leave in a hurry. If you have a pet sitter,
make sure they know your plan, too.
GET THE APP

FEMA also provides ways for you to take
its information and resources with you.
We, at FEMA, continuously think about
how we can get this potentially life-saving
information to people as effectively as
possible, said Moffett. We know many
people bring their smartphones every-
where for entertainment and to stay up to
date on breaking news; and the FEMA app
helps us get preparedness information
into the palms of their hands.
According to Moett, the FEMA app is
available for free in the App Store for Apple
devices and Google Play for Android devices.
It provides tips (available with or
without cell service) on what to do
before, during and after emergencies and
allows users to sign up for weather alerts
from the National Weather Service for
up to five different locations anywhere
in the United States.
The app also features a place to share
disaster damage photos, includes an
emergency kit checklist and provides
directions to open shelters. You can find
more information about the app features
at www.FEMA.gov/mobile-app. A member of a HAZMAT team sprays the burned remains of homes during a debris removal operation in Middletown, California,
to prevent toxic chemicals from going airborne. (Photo: FEMA/Adam DuBrowa)
ASG-1709-MONTH.indd 18 6/6/17 12:18 AM

NEIGHBORHOOD TEAMS
Preparing for emergencies isnt just an individual activity: PrepareAthon is a
program supported by FEMA that tries to get communities involved in protecting
themselves against disasters.
AVAILABLE
Students in Grapevine, Texas, simulate sheltering in place during a
PrepareAthon exercise 2014. (Photo: FEMA/Stephanie Moffett)
DETAILED
PUBLICATIONS
An emergency kit can see you through many disasters, but there are things you need
to know about for specific incidents. At www.Ready.gov/prepare-for-emergencies,
there is information about how to prepare for hurricanes, tornadoes, floods, earth-
quakes, landslides, volcanoes, wildfires and pandemics, along with man-made threats
such as biological and chemical attacks, nuclear blasts, cyber attacks and more.
An emergency kit doesnt have to be fancy: It can be as simple as sup-
plies placed in a plastic bin. (Photo: FEMA/Zachary Kittrie)
FEMA offers free publications on many topics as well, including an emergency supplies
list, family communications plan, as well as special preparation needs of children,
seniors and businesses. There are also publications with information pertinent to
specific regions of the country. These publications can be downloaded as PDF files, or
you can order printed copies at www.Ready.gov/publications.
START EXPLORING
FEMA PREPAREDNESS WEBSITE
WWW.READY.GOV
Above: Disaster
training can be an
eye-opening expe-
rience. Here, EMTs
undergo HAZMAT
training in Baton
Rouge, Louisiana, to
learn how to perform
their jobs in the pres-
ence of toxic contam-
inants. (Photo: FEMA/
Win Henderson)
A HAZMAT instruc-
tor in Baton Rouge,
Louisiana, shows
EMTs how to suit up
during a 2005 training
exercise on how
to recover victims
after a chemical spill.
(Photo: FEMA/Win
Henderson)
ASG-1709-MONTH.indd 19 6/6/17 12:18 AM

THE FEMA
APP IS AVAILABLE
FOR FREE IT
PROVIDES TIPS
ON WHAT TO DO
BEFORE, DURING
AND AFTER
EMERGENCIES
Communities conduct Prepare-

Athon events year-round with a focus
on encouraging participants to take
concrete actions, such as participat-
ing in a drill, exercise or discussion,
Moffett explained. PrepareAthon
events are unique to each community Communities decimated by a disaster often depend on volunteers to assist in distributing supplies to surviving residents.
(Photo: FEMA/Jocelyn Augustino)
and might be aligned to a particular
theme in the Ready Campaigns National
Seasonal Preparedness Calendar. During
NPM, FEMA celebrates outstanding
community accomplishments through
national-level recognition.
FEMA also encourages the formation
of Community Emergency Response
Teams (CERT).
According to Moffett, CERT members
learn about disaster-preparedness for
hazards that may impact their area and
are trained in basic disaster-response
skills, such as fire safety, light search-
and-rescue, team organization and
disaster medical operations. Using train-
ing learned in the classroom and during
exercises, CERT volunteers can assist
others in their community following a
disaster when professional responders
are not immediately available to help.
More information on CERT activities is
available at www.FEMA.gov/community-
emergency-response-teams and ReadyCampus events, sponsored by FEMA, give college students hands-on demonstrations to stress the need for education
www.Ready.gov/get-involved. and preparedness for emergencies. (Photo: FEMA/Steve Zumwalt)
PREPARE NOW
When neighborhoods are struck by
a storm, many feel powerless, said
Moffett. But the truth is, were not
powerlesswe can take actions now to
help prepare for the worst.
A kit in a can: Red Cross Emergency Smartpacks are examples The National Guard is often called in to assist in supplying
of ready-made, easy-to-store emergency supplies. (Photo: FEMA/ meals and drinking water to people in areas hard hit by severe
Steve Zumwalt) weather events. (Photo: FEMA/Norman Lenburg)
ASG-1709-MONTH.CX.indd 20 6/8/17 10:46 PM

ASG-1709-Hogue 5/17/17 12:22 PM Page 1
SET ASIDE
SOME BASIC
SUPPLIES
The recommendation to maintain at least 72 hours of emergency supplies and to store
more, if possible, takes into consideration that first responders may not be able to get
to you right away and also takes into consideration shelter-in-place and evacuation.
The time frames will vary by hazard and by geographic location, FEMA spokesperson
Stephanie Moffett noted.
What should your emergency kit contain? Here are the official FEMA lists:
THE BASICS
Water: 1 gallon of water per person per Dust mask: To help filter contaminated air
day for at least three days for drinking and Plastic sheeting and duct tape: To shelter
sanitation in place
Food: At least a three-day supply of non- Sanitation needs: Moist towelettes,
perishable food garbage bags and plastic ties for personal
Radio: Battery-powered or hand-cranked sanitation
radio and a NOAA Weather radio with tone Tools: Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities
alert and extra batteries for both Manual can opener
Flashlight: With extra batteries Local maps
First aid kit Cell phone: With charger, inverter or solar
Whistle: To signal for help charger
ADDITIONAL ITEMS
FEMA also suggests some additional items:
Prescription glasses Chlorine bleach
Infant formula and diapers Fire extinguisher
Pet food and extra water for your pet Matches in a waterproof container
Cash or travelers checks and change Personal hygiene items
Important family documents and records Mess kits or paper cups, plates, paper
in a waterproof container towels and plastic utensils
Emergency reference materials Paper and pencil
Sleeping bag for each person Books, games, puzzles or other activities
Change of clothing for children
FIRST AID KIT

Consider the following for your first aid kit:
Two pairs of latex gloves Eye-wash solution
Sterile dressings to stop bleeding Thermometer
Cleansing agent/soap and antibiotic Prescription medications
towelettes Pain reliever
Scissors Anti-diarrhea medication
Tweezers Antacid
Petroleum jelly Laxative
Antibiotic ointment
Burn ointment
Adhesive bandages
21
ASG-1709-MONTH.indd 21 6/6/17 12:18 AM

BEATING
AROUND
THE BUSH
TESTING THREE SARGENT EDGED
TOOLS IN THE FIELD
BY KEVIN ESTELA
ASG-1709-SARGENT.indd 22 6/8/17 9:19 PM

C
lean, rugged, practical, smart.
These are the words that first come to mind when asked what I
think about the work of Brian Sargent. Brian is a highly sought-after
maker who produces knives that dont last for very long on various
online forums and his social media pages. Hes a true American and patriot, and his
knives are a combination of classic designs and modern technology and materials.
Brian is a make-it-happen kind of guy, and he knows how to make a particular
design work. Hes able to get incredible performance out of tried-and-true steels
such as O1, and his designs simply work.
This is easily recognized the first time you handle one of his blades. My students
have brought his blades to my courses over the years, and I had to get my hands
on some to try them out for myself. So, after some great conversations and some
good back-and-forth online, Brian sent me a box of blades to choose from.
I picked the top three to accompany me into the fieldfrom the frozen Northeast
all the way to the tropical Hawaiian island of Kauai. The Sargent Edged Tools
were worked hard in the great outdoors in both of these environmental extremes.
It wasnt easy choosing three to focus on, but once you read what follows, youll
understand why this trio of tools was carefully selected to tackle anything Mother
Nature could throw at me.

THE BELT KNIFE: SARGENT
EDGED TOOLS M3
The Sargent Edged Tools M3 Generation
5 is an all-purpose, 4.5-inch belt knife for
all bushcraft tasks. With a 1/8-inch-thick
blade that features a very distinct curve
to the tip, the M3 is meant for slicing
effortlessly; and with a keen Scandi edge,
it push-cuts cleanly. The handle of the M3
is smooth and comfortable in all possible
grips and long enough so that the butt of
the handle extends past the palm of even
the largest of the testers hands.
This knife can be used for extended
periods of time without any risk of hot
spots or blisters developing. The M3 comes
with a beautifully finished, 10-ounce tooling
leather sheath that has been waxed for a
snap fit. A pull-the-dot snap on the back
of the sheath allows the user to attach
or remove an optional drop-leg loop that
lets the sheath swivel as the wearer moves Above: The author used the M3 by Sargent Edged Tools to baton through seasoned maple and beech. The knife
showed no noticeable wear, except for some rub marks on the shoulder of the side of the blade.
about or sits down. Being able to rock the
handle forward or back allows the user to
Below: The S.E.T. M3 was push cut through Manila rope multiple times. The -inch-thick blade and sharp
easily draw the blade from its sheath. Scandinavian grind were hardly affected by this test through this tough medium.

The M3
handle scales
are secured
I WAS EXTREMELY
with brass
Corby bolts.
IMPRESSED BY THESE
THREE BLADES; THUS, THEY
HAVE EARNED MY HIGHEST
RECOMMENDATION.
During testing, I subjected the M3 to tasks normally found

within bushcraft circles.
When axes arent available, batoning is often the solution. I
used the M3 to pound through seasoned maple and beech with
a heavy baton. I also used it to cut through cordagea lot of
cordage. I push-cut through 1-inch Manila rope and left a mess
of fibers behind. The Manila cordage split apart with some effort
and really worked against the sharpness of the edge.
I also used the M3 to carve various projects such as tent pegs,
pot holders and a few dinner steaks. Suffice it to say, the knife
Author Estela was well used, showed a good patina but was still working-sharp.
was able to
return the S.E.T.
What I mean by this is that it wouldnt cleanly cut through loose-
M3 to razor leaf paper, but it would still carve feathersticks for fire-starting.
sharpness
with a series I took the M3 to a set of Arkansas stones from Dans Whetstones.
of Arkansas Working from medium coarseness to ultra-fine, I worked the M3
stones
from Dans back into shape in no time.
Whetstones. Considering the amount of cutting done with this blade, the
steels condition after some hard use is a testament to the Peters
heat-treat and Brians workmanship.
M3
The M3 from
S.E.T. comes
SPECIFICATIONS
with a 10-ounce
leather sheath
that is waxed
for a snap fit
and equipped OVERALL LENGTH: 9 INCHES
with a drop-leg
adapter that is
easily attached BLADE LENGTH: 4.5 INCHES
and removed
with a pull-the-
dot snap. BLADE THICKNESS: 1/8 INCH
STEEL: O1
HANDLE: RED CORAL CANVAS

MICARTA WITH BRASS
CORBY BOLTS
WEIGHT: 7.5 OUNCES
SHEATH: HERMAN OAK 10-OUNCE

TOOLING LEATHER WITH
ARTIFICIAL SINEW
MSRP: $300
ASG-1709-SARGENT.CX.indd 25 6/12/17 12:20 AM

THE CHOPPER: SARGENT Right top: The
author uses the
EDGED TOOLS SERECHETE SEREchete to
process bamboo
The SEREchete is a new take on the beaver-
while on the N Pali
tail machetes of yesteryear. Far from the exotic coast of the island
of Kauai, Hawaii.
and impractical zombie-slayer designs with
impractical points and serrations, the SEREchete
is meant to be a multi-purpose blade capable of
heavy-duty work or fine carving.
The SEREchete has a unique blade grind
with a Scandi grind nearest the ricasso that
transitions into a convex grind that extends
around the beavertail. This allows the user
Right middle: The
to carve with a choked-up grip or chop with SEREchete finish
a traditional saber or hammer grip. protected the 1095
steel while cutting
Speaking of grips: The SEREchetes through green
handle is, by far, one of the best Ive ever vegetation and only
started to show
used in the field. Even when covered in rain, wear when working
with dried woods
sweat and mud, it was exceptionally easy
and materials.
for me to maintain a good purchase on it.
I normally shy away from cord-wrapped
handles, because any raised surface on a
Right bottom:
working blade will cause hot spots. The The SEREchete cut
thin-diameter jute twine impregnated deeply into thick,
dried bamboo.
with epoxy provided just enough texture The convex edge
without causing any blisters. held up and was
not deformed after
For those who have never used a sharpened repeated use.
SEREchete
SPECIFICATIONS
OVERALL LENGTH: 16 INCHES
BLADE LENGTH: 10.5 INCHES
BLADE THICKNESS: 1/8 INCH
STEEL: 1095, RC 53-54
HANDLE: HARD ROCK MAPLE

SCALES WITH JUTE
WRAP
WEIGHT: 17 OUNCES
SHEATH: .090-INCH KYDEX
MSRP: $250

CLEAN, RUGGED, PRACTICAL,
SMART. THESE ARE THE WORDS
THAT FIRST COME TO MIND WHEN
ASKED WHAT I THINK ABOUT THE
WORK OF BRIAN SARGENT. THE TOP 10
The SEREchete
comes with a
heavy-duty Kydex
SEREchete
TIPS &
sheath featuring a
fuller indentation
that provides
TRICKS
some extra
retention on the
blade.
BY TERRY BARNEY, CO-DESIGNER

AND FORMER U.S. AIR FORCE SERE
INSTRUCTOR
1 The H fire: The spade end and cutting

surface can be used to carve a capital H shape
in the ground. You then pry the ground from the
middle of the H to the top and bottom. This cre-
The SEREchete ates a slot that a small fire can be built inand it
worked as a strong can be quickly concealed, if necessary.
chopping tool,
as well as a fine 2 One-handed firesteel: Bury your tool
working knife.
The author used
blade, end first, into the ground as deep as
it to prepare fruit you can with one hand. Because the entire
on the trail on spine is a sharp, 90-degree angle, you can
multiple hikes and draw your firesteel toward you at ground level
found it handled
like a large knife. and drop the sparks into the tinder bundle.
3 Dig a cat hole: Number 2 happens. A 12-
to 18-inch hole is optimum for sanitation and for
bacteria to break down what you left behind.
4 Digging roots: Many flora have very
useful and edible roots. Not only can you dig
them up, you can also chop them out.
5 Fine work: The Scandi grind close to
the handle makes fine work easier. Making
deadfall traps is a breeze with this section
of the blade.
6 Four-strike chop: By making four
approximately 30-degree strikes in a circle
around a pole, a soda can-sized piece of wood
can be felled very quickly.
7 File sharp: The high grind on the main
beavertail tip, it handles much like a large gouge. It can be used for scraping out chopping area and the spade end are very
hollows in logs to make bowls to boil in with rocks, and it works exceptionally well easily sharpened with a small, packable file.
for digging in soil. The sharpened tip, when probed into the soil carefully, will cut 8 Debarking: Poles can be debarked quickly
right through roots. (For those of you who are wondering, its easy to differentiate by wedging them between two trees and
when you make contact with a rock or a root.) holding the blade as a draw knife.
In the field, I used the SEREchete for chopping down and splitting bamboo for 9 Harvesting grasses: A short, fast, thin
various projects, as well as for preparing fruit for midday snacking on the trail. It was chopper makes gathering grasses easier.
These materials are great for insulating beds
easy to use as a draw knife for carving and as a slicer in thicker green vegetation.
and shelter thatching.
This large blade handles extremely well and is very lively in the hand. It does not
10 Splitwood fires: The high grind and
feel like a heavy-duty sharpened pry bar; rather, it feels more like a large camp knife.
tough blade is batoned through most wrist-
In letting others examine and use the blade, they also remarked about the comfort thick and smaller wood with little effort.
experienced with the handle, as well as the overall finish of the blade. For full
disclosure, I must admit the blackened finish, like all finishes, will wear in spots of
frequent use. My sample shows plenty of character after numerous days in the field.

[BRIAN IS] ABLE TO Above: The
Sargent Edged
GET INCREDIBLE Tools Matilija is a
compact belt knife
PERFORMANCE OUT OF with a substantial
handle for comfort
TRIED-AND-TRUE STEELS and a keen Scandi

edge for carving.
SUCH AS O1, AND HIS

DESIGNS SIMPLY WORK.
MATILIJA THE PERSONAL KNIFE/NECKER/BACKUP:
SPECIFICATIONS Top right:

The Matilija
developed a
deep patina
SARGENT EDGED TOOLS MATILIJA
When a knife is too large, it is impractical to wear it 24 hours a day;
when a knife is too small, it loses some of its utility.
during
testing. The Sargent Edged Tools Matilija is an excellent blade for daily and
This natural
OVERALL LENGTH: 7 INCHES process
nightly carry. Designed as a miniature S.E.T. Model 1, the Matilija is sized
actually just right for use as a neck knife or ultralight blade for the backpacker. It
protects the
BLADE LENGTH: 3 INCHES blade from features a Scandi grind, so it is the perfect knife for the casual carver who
rusting. sits around the fire and fiddles with various bushcraft projects.
BLADE THICKNESS: 3/32 INCH Whether in my hands or the smaller hands of a couple of female testers,
the knife was comfortable and remained very sharp after considerable
STEEL: O1, RC 60 use. When sharpening was necessary, I used a traditional stone. Some
Bottom of the modern super-steels require diamond hones, but O1 steel can be
HANDLE: BLACK CANVAS right: The
MICARTA WITH Matilija carry sharpened with a combination of Arkansas stones and light pressure.
STAINLESS FLARED package
comes with a
I wore the Matilija while hiking in very damp conditions. The deep
TUBES
deep Kydex pocket sheath helped protect the knife steel from exposure to my sweat
pocket
sheath with and the rain. The polished edge of this knife took on a deep-purple patina
WEIGHT: 3.6 OUNCES
an ULTICLIP the more I used itas any O1 steel will. The rear flared handle tube was
attachment.
SHEATH: .080-INCH KYDEX used as a lanyard hole; and, with a small length of paracord, the Matilija
was easily extracted from the sheath.
MSRP: $250 In terms of fire-starting with a ferro rod, the Matilija was the best of
the three knives I tested. Its 90-degree spine and compact size enabled
me to reach into fire rings and inside a fire lay without knocking over my
tinder or kindling.
S O U R C E The Matilija was designed as a small backup blade, but it could easily
Sargent Edged Tools be used as a primary knifein conjunction with a folding saw and small
(805) 216-3162 hatchet. It is the smallest fixed-blade knife I would be comfortable using
www.facebook.com/SargentEdgedTools as a primary belt knife without feeling inadequately prepared. However,
for smaller-statured users, this knife is the perfect size. ASG

AN INTERVIEW WITH
BRIAN SARGENT
American Survival Guide: Brian, you have a me a few things that I carry over into most of my enthusiasts around the globe. What blades or
very loyal following of users in the bushcraft designs. I use the feedback from end users quite makers have inspired you?
and survival community. What do you attribute a bit. There are some very talented people who BS: I definitely fell in love with military and
your popularity to? use my knives, and Ive bounced ideas around survival knives as a kid, so lets get that out of
Brian Sargent: Focusing on the knife as a tool with most of them. the way! When I started making knives, I was
and incorporating it into an efficient carry system. I really enjoy throwing a few new ideas at an inspired by Justin Gingrich, Matt Lesniewski, L.T.
Im a big fan of knives, in general, and using them existing model and testing it for a few weeks. Wright, Rod Garcia, Rick Marchand and Mike
in the outdoors. I try to push the use it and have Then, Ill move it along to someone else and Stewart. Rod Garcias Skookum Bushtool is a
fun side more than the keep it pretty collector see what they think. Each time, I get more ideas major influence. I enjoy primitive skills and the
side. That gives me a connection to the people to try, and it starts all over again. Constant associated tools. Lately, short machetes, parangs
[who] are using them on their adventures. evolution and testing. It never gets old, and I and bolos are getting my attention.
ASG: Your designs are very straightforward and hope it never does. ASG: Whats next for Sargent Edged Tools? In
solid performers. What goes into your design ASG: What is something the reader should know other words, whats on your bench or sketchpad
process and the evolution of your blades? about you but wouldnt know or want to ask? that we can expect to see in the next year?
BS: Im sure its similar to others. At first, there BS: More often than not, my mind is in the BS: Lightweight, efficient carry systems,
was a lot of sketching and searching for ideas. I LPNF (Los Padres National Forest)! streamlined models in more super-steels, lots of
have a few models that have now been tweaked ASG: There are a lot of blades on the SEREchete action and field-testing, and trying to
10 or more times over the years. That has taught market and some classic designs used by knife refine the EDC/belt knife/SEREchete trio.
ULTICLIP FOR
SECURE CARRY
Ulticlip
www.Ulticlip.com
(239) 400-CLIP (2547)
Sargent Edged Tools utilizes the ULTICLIP in its tucked in a purse or in a boot, clipped to the
deep pouch-style pocket sheath. The ULTICLIP, inside of a tunnel pocket on a pack, on a piece of
for those not familiar with it, is an attachment paracord for a neck lanyard or anywhere practi-
system for holsters and sheaths that offers cal, the ULTICLIP will not pull free accidentally,
exceptional retention on whatever it is clipped to. unlike lesser-made attachments.
It is an award-winning design (2016 Gun Digest In testing the ULTICLIP (similar to the tests
Gear of the Year) and is growing in popularity. found on this companys website) I recreated the
If youve ever worried about drawing a knife or tests with a luggage scale and found it difficult
pistolas well as its sheath or holster acciden- to induce a clip failure by pulling on the sheath
tallyyou know there are some clips that dont with considerable amounts of force. I carried the
work as advertised. With the political climate Matilija with the wax-and-oil-treated ULTICLIP in
we live in, the chances are that if you are seen the cold, hot, sandy, muddy and wet conditions
wearing a blade, youll raise someones suspicion. of the proving grounds of my field tests. Never
Traditional belt loop dangler carry for your once did it fail me.
average belt knife wont always cut it (no pun The 100 percent American-made ULTICLIP is
intended!). This is why Brian Sargent adapted the next evolution of traditional clip-carry knives.
the ULTICLIP into his pouch sheath designs. Just The ULTICLIP will undoubtedly be found on more
grab your blade, tuck it, clamp it, and go. knife sheaths in the years to come. It is hard to
The 1075 heat-treated, MIL-SPEC, black-oxide- argue with performance, and this attachment
finished ULTICLIP will clamp onto inch of material method holds strong, works on all fabrics and
the equivalent of seven layers of denim. Worn stands up to the elements. It will stand the test
inside the waistband, inside a jacket pocket, of time, too.

HOMEMADE
EMP
BUILD YOUR OWN FARADAY
CAGE TO PROTECT SENSITIVE
ELECTRONIC DEVICES.
DEFENSES
BY JIM JEFFRIES
ASG-1709-FARADAY.indd 30 6/8/17 9:29 AM


T
he far-reaching effects of
an electromagnetic pulse
(EMP), caused by the
massive release of energy
from a major solar flare or
an atmospheric nuclear blast, can render
useless many of the electronic devices we
rely on every day.
Because of the transformer effect
of an EMP inducing currents in the
power transmission lines, appliances
and equipment connected to the power
grid could be hit with a power surge that
might be many times higher than they
can withstand. This invisible wave of
electromagnetic energy (a rapidly chang-
ing electromagnetic field travelling at
the speed of light) will induce an electric
current in any conductor it encounters.
And if it is strong enough, it can fry the
sensitive circuitry in devices that arent
even connected to utility power.
Conductive an EMP can be accomplished by placing the items inside an enclosure called a Faraday
materials in many
PROTECT YOUR forms can be used cage (made of wire mesh) or Faraday shield (made of solid sheet metal).
SENSITIVE DEVICES to make a Faraday A Faraday cage or shield works by redistributing the induced electrical charges into the
cage. Wire mesh
Losing a coffeemaker to a power surge is often used, but conductive material that makes up the enclosure in the presence of an external elec-
chicken wire is
is no big deal, but critical devices such not a good choice.
tromagnetic field. Although it is very effective, it does not block all the energy; rather, it
as radios need protection beyond simply (Photo: Yvonne significantly attenuates (reduces) the strength of the field inside.
Tsang, Wikimedia)
disconnecting them. Shielding valuable Many factors come into play regarding the attenuation achieved: the conductivity and
electronic equipment from the effects of thickness of the material and type of surface of the enclosure (mesh vs. solid sheet),
along with the frequency and waveform of the electromagnetic field. So, generally
speaking, thicker, solid walls made of a highly conductive metal, such as copper, will
provide the greatest attenuation across the broadest range of frequencies.
YOULL NEED THESE MATERIALS

While commercially manufactured Faraday cages are available, making one at home
from common items is fairly easy. Galvanized steel trash cans, steel drums of various
sizes (with separate lids and locking bands), stainless steel stock pots and surplus
ammunition cans all make excellent Faraday cages. Materials available at most
hardware stores can be used to make custom-sized enclosures.
In addition, aluminum flashing and galvanized sheet metal can be cut and formed
into boxes or cylinders to create containers of virtually any shape. The geometry is not
important, but electrical continuity across all surfaces is critical.
Common hand tools such as tin snips, drills and screwdrivers, and specialized tools
including a pop rivet gun and multi-metershould already be part of your preparedness
tool kit. Put them to use building enclosures to protect your irreplaceable electronic gear.
A few things to keep in mind when using these types of items to shield your gear:
A tight-fitting lid is important. Any gaps or openings around the lid might allow
electromagnetic energy to enter the enclosure.
A FARADAY CAGE OR SHIELD WORKS

BY REDISTRIBUTING THE INDUCED
ELECTRICAL CHARGES INTO THE
CONDUCTIVE MATERIAL THAT
MAKES UP THE ENCLOSURE IN THE
A Faraday cage in operation: The women inside the cage are protected PRESENCE OF AN EXTERNAL ELEC-
from the electric arc. (Photo: Antoine Taveneaux)
TROMAGNETIC FIELD.

WHILE
COMMERCIALLY
MANUFACTURED
FARADAY CAGES
ARE AVAILABLE,
MAKING ONE
AT HOME FROM
COMMON ITEMS
IS FAIRLY EASY. Heavier-gauge wire mesh and closer spacing can prove very Galvanized trash cans with tight-fitting lids make excellent
effective at blocking electromagnetic energy. (Photo: Precision- Faraday shields.
crushers, Wikimedia)
Rubber gaskets, as used in steel

ammunition cans, will electrically insulate
the lid from the can. Remove and wrap the
gasket with a conductive material such
as aluminum foil tape. Then, reattach the
gasket to form a complete circuit between
the can and lid.
Paint or other coatings can act as an
insulator. Scrape or sand away any paint
on the mating surfaces of the enclosure
and its lid or door.
The inside of a sealed container
can develop condensation, leading to
corrosion that could ruin the item you
are trying to protect. Place a desiccant
pack inside the enclosure to absorb any
moisture present in the trapped air.
Many devices require ventilation.
Some types of batteries will produce
gasses that might build up in the
enclosure, potentially causing corrosion
or other issues. In a case like this, some
path for fresh air must be provided. Pails and kitchen pots can be converted to shields by simply placing the device inside them and putting the lids back on.
Of all these considerations, ventilation
might be the most difficult to accomplish.
Wire mesh can be used to cover the vent
holes to allow air to flow through but still
form an effective barrier to electromag-
netic fields. Plain aluminum window
screen (available from home improve-
ment stores) can be used, but in terms
of electromagnetic energy, the holes in
window screen are pretty big. To increase
the effectiveness, use three pieces of
screen, stacking and orienting them in
such a way that the holes in the screen
will be much smaller.
If no suitable containers are available,
aluminum foil can make an effective,
field-expedient Faraday shield. Wrapping
the device in enough foil to completely
enclose it will attenuate any external elec-
tromagnetic field; placing the wrapped
item inside a box or other container and
covering that with an additional layer of Larger containers, such as these 55-gallon drums, can Surplus steel ammunition cans come in various sizes. With a
foil will provide even more protection. hold larger items. (Photo: Getty Images) slight modification, they make great Faraday shields.
ASG-1709-FARADAY.CX.indd 33 6/8/17 10:50 PM

COMBINING
MULTIPLE
MEASURES, SUCH
AS WRAPPING
A DEVICE IN
FOIL AND THEN
PLACING IT IN
A GALVANIZED
TRASH CAN (LINED
WITH A HEAVY
TRASH CAN LINER
FOR ELECTRICAL
INSULATION),
CERTAINLY
INCREASES THE
ODDS IN FAVOR Foil, screen and flashing made of aluminum, as well as galvanized sheet metal, are good materials to use when making a
Faraday cage from scratch.
OF YOUR GEAR
SURVIVING AN
EMP EVENT.
When it comes to protecting your
electronic gear, there is no such thing as
overkill. Combining multiple measures,
such as wrapping a device in foil and
then placing it in a galvanized trash can
(lined with a heavy trash can liner for
electrical insulation), certainly increases Common hand tools, along with a meter to check for electri- Check the lid of the enclosure to make sure it fits tightly. The
cal continuity, are necessary when making your own enclosure. outline of the mating surface in this ammo can lid shows there
the odds in favor of your gear surviving are no gaps.
an EMP event.
Grounding the enclosure might increase
the effectiveness of the Faraday cage. To
avoid the chance of electrocution, dont
connect the enclosure to the ground
terminal in an electrical outlet! Connect
it directly to an earth ground using
the shortest wire (or other conductor)
possible. If grounding the enclosure is
not practical, dont worry about itit
will still work.
Removing the rubber gasket and covering it with an electri- Remove any paint or other coating that might prevent
cally conductive material ensures there is electrical continuity metal-to-metal contact.
HAVE A BACKUP PLAN between the lid and can.
Its likely that a crucial piece of electronic

gear will be in use when an EMP strikes,
resulting in its destruction. Any piece
of gear that plays a vital role in your
preparedness or survival plan should have
a like counterpart in safe storage: If its an
electronic device, have a spare (along with
all necessary accessories) safely tucked
away in a Faraday cage.
Remember the preppers adage: Two is
Condensation can be a problem in a sealed enclosure. Desic- Aluminum window screening is effective as is, but a few pieces
one, and one is none. cant packs can help by absorbing moisture. together and oriented properly can make the screening even
more capable of shielding items that require ventilation.

EMP
PROTECTION
FROM WORLD
GONE SILENT
Protecting your small electronics from the threat of an EMP just got easier. With the
EMP Bag from World Gone Silent, small electronics, including smartphones and tablets,
can be stored and transported without the worry of being compromised by remote
hackers (or a high-altitude nuke blast from Kim Jong-un).
Simply place the device inside the 10x6-inch bag and roll the Velcro closure down
twice thats it. The EMP Bag is made from special RF signal-resistant fabric that
attenuates the outside signal strength from 78 to 82 dB or 70 to 84 dB, depending on
which bag you choose. Im not going to do the math on this one, but trust me when I say
that is a lot of attenuation!
World Gone Silent EMP Bags are available in copper (made with copper signal-resistant
fabric) or black and silver (made with silver signal-resistant fabric) and are designed to
provide protection from signals ranging from 10 megahertz to 100 gigahertz.
Without proper test gear, the claimed performance was not verifiable, but in rudimentary
analysis, the World Gone Silent EMP Bag performed as well as any Faraday cage tested.
MSRP: $24.99black and nickel EMP Bag; $29.99copper EMP Bag

WWW.WORLDGONESILENT.COM
Small items can be wrapped in aluminum foil, placed inside a larger

box and then wrapped with another layer of foil.
World Gone Silent EMP Bags are made from
copper or silver signal-resistant fabric to create
a flexible Faraday cage.
Properly closed, the EMP

Bag will protect any item
inside from strong radio
frequency energy.
Foil-wrapped items placed inside a steel trash can with a liner to insulate
them from the inside of the can will have a better chance of surviving the
effects of an EMP.
Spare radio equipment stored inside a Faraday cage will ensure you
have the means to communicate after the event.

TEST YOUR FARADAY CAGE
FOR EFFECTIVENESS
Thorough testing of a Faraday cage
requires elaborate equipment that most
of us just dont have access to, so we will
have to settle for an approximation. Like an
EMP, radio frequency (RF) energy is a form
of electromagnetic radiation. So, using a
radio receiver, we can get a good idea of the
shielding quality of a prospective enclosure.
A good method of testing is to place a
portable battery-powered receiver, tuned
to a station with continuous program
activity, inside the enclosure and close
Just because you dont have access to expensive test gear A receiver tuned to a strong signal will lose reception when the lid. If the signal drops to the point
doesnt mean you cant test your enclosure. (Photo: Getty placed inside a Faraday cage. If you can still hear the station
Images) when the enclosure is sealed up, it needs more work. that only static is heard emanating from
within, the enclosure will likely work well
as a Faraday cage. When performing such
a test, be sure to use a strong station, such
as your local NOAA weather alert channel,
and turn it up loudly enough to be plainly
heard from within the enclosure.
If no strong radio stations exist in your
area, as might be the case in some of the
western states, you might have to impro-
vise a bit. Try one or more of the following:
Place your cell phone inside the
container and call it. If it doesnt ring, you
should be good to go.
If you have a Wi-Fi connection in your
home, connect to it with your smartphone
and analyze the signal strength from
within the enclosure (there are free Wi-Fi
analyzer apps that measure and plot
Wi-Fi signals that are good for this test,
as well as other uses). Dont expect to
see the signal drop to zero, but look for a
significant reduction in strength.
Use a pair of walkie-talkies (one inside
If there are no strong radio stations available, using a Wi-Fi connection for testing is feasible. Check the signal strength before
and after the phone is placed inside the Faraday cage. There should be a significant drop in signal strength inside the enclosure. the enclosure and turned up loud) and
transmit on the same frequency from
a short distance away. These can be
FRS/GMRS radios, but higher-powered
portable transceivers operating on ham
frequencies are much harder to block.
Walkie-talkies on CB frequencies are a good
test, as wellproviding there is enough space
inside the enclosure to extend the antenna
for high reliability.
Even if you cant test your enclosure,
by completely concealing your critical
electronic devices inside a conductive
enclosure they will stand a much better
The dip in signal strength occurred when the phone was wrapped in aluminum foil (red scale) but was much more dramatic chance of surviving an EMP.
when the phone was placed inside the galvanized trash can (blue scale).

ASG-1706-Ready Made Resources 2/27/17 12:43 PM Page 1
ASG_1709_37.indd 37 6/5/17 3:50 AM

FORMULATE YOUR
PREPPER
ACTION
PLAN
CODIFYING CRITICAL PROCEDURES
BEFORE THE CRISIS
BY WILL DABBS, M.D.
THE RUSSIANS DONT TAKE A DUMP, SON, WITHOUT A PLAN.

-ADMIRAL JOSH PAINTER, THE HUNT FOR RED OCTOBER
T
hese words came from a fictional character in the Tom Clancy book, The Hunt for Red October. Another
paraphrased axiom might be that sweat in peace prevents blood in war. As this concept applies to
survival prepping, it simply means that the time to think about what you are going to do is not when the
zombies come ambling up the driveway.
It seems that even the government thinks planning for calamity is a great idea.
ASG-1709-PLAN.CX.indd 38 6/8/17 10:56 PM


Photo: Dawn Armfield
OUR TAX DOLLARS AT WORK Above: You need That website is www.Ready.gov, and it is a FEMA product. The information is well-or-
to recognize the
For those of us who work hard to pay our possibility exists ganized and easy to access. Potential threats range from pedestrian stuff (such as
that you might
taxes, it can seem that we get precious tornadoes and drought) to weird things (nuclear blasts, tsunamis and space weather,
lose everything
little return for that massive recurring you own from a whatever that really is. Just kidding; the website explains it nicely). While the technical
wide variety of
investment. We have decent roads and an threats. Creating material should be of interest to anyone responsible enough to have purchased this
admittedly prodigious pile of dead terrorists and practicing American Survival Guide magazine, what it really did for me was get the juices flowing.
an action plan
to show for our outlay, but most of that is the first step
money always seems to go someplace in protecting as PRACTICAL TACTICAL
much as you can.
other than the Dabbs family. It was easy when my kids were young. We lived way out in the woods on a potentially
However, there are some government-spon- self-sufficient farm and were armed to the teeth. When we had a bad storm or a power
sored online resources that can do a fine job outage, we all just retreated to the basement and let it flow over us. However, my three
of helping get you organized when it comes to kids now live in three different parts of the country, all far from home. Actions to take in
planning for a crisis. the event of an emergency are altogether different today.
ASG-1709-PLAN.indd 40 6/8/17 9:17 AM

RALLY
POINTS
On an infantry patrol, the patrol leader spins his hand in
the air every so often and points to an obvious landmark.
This is a quiet way of communicating where to go in the
event the unit gets separated.
The same concept applies to your family in an emergency.
Think about this in three phases.
The first is what to do if you have to leave the house in
the event of a fire or something similar. FEMA calls this
within your neighborhood. Instruct everyone in
the family to rally at the tool shed, the mailbox, a des-
ignated neighbors house or some similarly recognizable
spot. It needs to be easy to find, even in the dark. If you
live in a remote area, consider putting some old blankets
at your rally point to help keep everybody warm while
you wait for the cavalry.
Outside your neighborhood, the rally point might
be a place of worship, local library, a nearby friends home
or a community center. Make sure everyone knows how to
navigate there if going it alone. Practice getting there a few
times to make sure it is viable.
Outside your hometown, the rally point can be the home
of a relative or close friend. If that isnt handy, some easily recog-
nizable public place might do. We use a familiar mini-mart along
the intervening highway with a well-lit and spacious parking lot.
Talk about ways to get there, as well as the criteria for executing
a meeting in the event of lost communications.
A crisis is frightening enough on its own. But face an
emergency while being unable to account for your family
members, and panic becomes an issue. Plan your rendez-
vous points and expect the unexpected. Many times, just
knowing what to do can be a great boon in a disaster.
The products at Ready.gov include downloadable information cards to be used in an

emergency. They provide a handy place to keep contact information for close friends and
family. While you may have access to addresses and phone numbers for every relative,
HAVING A PLAN HELPS
both immediate and distant, how about your 18-year-old college student daughter? YOU CONSOLIDATE
If she had to get in touch with Uncle Joe or Aunt Jane when you werent there to help,
and the Internet was but a memory, could she pull it off? Keep in mind that your cell
RESOURCES AND TAMPS
phone, with its vast repository of personal and professional information, becomes a very DOWN PANIC. KEEP IT
expensive paperweight in the absence of electrical power.
A good action plan should include communications, food, water, egress, security, clothing
SIMPLE; SIMPLE STUFF
and shelter. Think through your particular circumstances and tailor the plan accordingly. IS WHAT WE REMEMBER
Ready.gov has worksheets and guidelines to help you get there. Obviously, the survival con- WHEN WE ARE TERRIFIED.
siderations for an investment banker in Manhattan are dierent from those of a Mississippi
farmer. Your individualized family prepper action plan should reect this.
ASG-1709-PLAN.indd 41 6/8/17 9:17 AM

WHEN THAT TIME COMES, WAR GAMES
When I was an Army officer, we planned for every imaginable eventuality. We all
HAVING A PLAN CAN MAKE knew that the master plan would change the moment we made contact with the
THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN enemy. However, that original plan gave us a framework upon which to build, allowing
us to adjust to the tactical scenario as it unfolded. The same concepts apply to a
SUCCESS AND FAILURE, family prepper action plan.
HAPPINESS AND TRAGEDY. My kids are hours away in sizeable urban cities. If disaster strikes, even if the
infrastructure remains intact, chances are that the cell system will be overwhelmed.
Your kids and distant family members need to know what to do so they will have that
framework upon which to build if the world goes sideways.
Stick with texting. Texts require a fraction of the bandwidth of a voice call.
Make sure everybody has everyone elses contact information in hard copy. Make a
lost comms plan. In our case, my kids know to always keep their gas tanks above half
full when there is trouble afoot. They are to meet me at a certain spot between their
homes and mine at a certain time in the event comms breakdown and they have to
run. On my end, I know where to go and look for them at our prearranged linkup site.
Ideally, this keeps me from just rolling into their neighborhoodwell armedand
looking for trouble after a disaster.
It can be a game of sorts: Get everybody together and just imagine
what could happen, where and how. Natural disasters, terrorist attacks,
civil unrest and weather gone wild are good places to start. Review
what happened on 9/11 and during hurricanes Katrina and Sandy for
Above: Echo-Sigma sells a wide variety

of survival gear designed for almost any
imaginable emergency. The companys rigs
are well reasoned and include quality kit.
Right: MREs (meals, ready to

eat) are actually tasty if properly
prepared. However, they really dont
last all that long on the shelf.
In addition, a decent hatchet makes

camp chores such as firewood
management markedly easier and
also doubles as a splendid close-
combat weapon.

inspiration. Once you have this basic framework in place, you can adapt to your reality
as necessary. Having a plan helps you consolidate resources and tamps down panic.
Keep it simple; simple stuff is what we remember when we are terrified.
PERTINENT PARTICULARS
Consider medical needs and plan to meet them. This can include critical medications
or equipment. For instance
Insulin-dependent diabetes is a guaranteed death sentence in the absence of ZOMBIES AND
THE FEDERAL
insulin and a refrigerator.
Kids have different needs than adults.
Consider pets and close friends in your planning. You dont want to end up so
desperate that you have to consider eating any of them!
Differing languages and disabilities can change the landscape of a survival
situation. Little things such as hearing aid batteries can become big things if you
GOVERNMENT
find yourself without them. Despite appearances, our politicians are not
Research local shelters policies concerning service animals if you have such, and actually brainless, undead spending machines
plan enough food and support gear to keep these critical assets online in a crisis. fixated on squandering our hard-earned tax
Figure out a way to access emergency alerts and warnings when conventional dollars and taking fact-finding trips to Aruba.
means of communications are down. A compact weather radio is cheap and can And, in fact, I have it on good authority that
be powered by anything from batteries to a hand crank to sunshine. Knowing what zombies are not even a real thing . However, that
is really going on in the world can be half the fight. didnt stop the government from preparing some
splendid guidelines for surviving a zombie attack.
This information is packaged in the form of a free
webinar and is presented in concert with the Centers
for Disease Control. The director of the CDC, Dr. Ali
Khan, said, If you are generally well equipped to deal
with a zombie apocalypse, you will be prepared for a
hurricane, pandemic, earthquake or terrorist attack.
Webinar speakers introduce fun and innovative
emergency preparedness activities to spark discus-
sion and get potential survivors involved before it
is too late. The CDC has hosted a zombie apoc-
alypse social media campaign, and the Kansas
Department of Emergency Management even held
a zombie awareness month. (Who knew that
Kansas had such a problem with the undead?)
Even if brain-eating ghouls never actually overrun
American population centers, the basic equipment and
techniques depicted by all our favorite zombie survivors
on both the large and small screens have merit in
helping us survive the more conventional emergencies.
Every responsible American should maintain a bug-out
bag, a serviceable firearm and some shelf-stable
food and waterjust in case. If nothing else, every
self-sustaining American is one less helpless burden
on inevitably stretched emergency services assets.
Zombie legends actually have some scant basis in fact.
Just Google bovine spongiform encephalopathy or
kuru if you want a fright. These are untreatable prion
(prion stands for proteinaceous infectious particles
and are bits of misfolded protein that have the ability
to spread by making other proteins misfold; [www.
prionalliance.org]) diseases that degrade your brain
and make you act strikingly zombie-like in the latter
stages. Fortunately, however, these weirdly vicious
diseases have never achieved an epidemic state.
The take-home point is that the techniques required to combat
them can be mighty handy in other emergencies, as well.

YOU ARE NEVER
MORE THAN A
SINGLE HEAD-
LINE AWAY FROM
HAVING TO TAKE
RESPONSIBILITY
FOR THE SAFETY
AND SECURITY
OF YOUR FAMILY.
Above: Shelf-stable food such as this from Mountain House will last 25 years or more if left unopened in a cool place.
Recon places such as schools and
However, all the food and cool-guy gear on the planet is worthless if you lack the means to protect it.
churches in advance so you know how
to retrieve your kids in a crisis. I have a
well-funded friend with a helicopter who
has a plan to extract his children aerially
from their local school in an emergency.
While the rest of us will have to make
do with the family minivan, the basic
concepts still apply. Once you have a plan,
document it so that everybody under-
stands what to do and when. The assets
at Ready.gov can help you get organized.
COMBAT TRAINING
The military trains repetitively, because
Photo: Clem Onojeghuo

that is how you hardwire information for
use in a crisis. The key to reliable perfor-
mance of the human machine when the
blood really starts pumping is this train-
ing. That can be a theater-level exercise
replete with tanks, strike aircraft, Special Above: Its very possible your phone will fail you during a serious emergency. Anticipate this challenge and create
hard copies of important information about contacts, medical needs, physicians and other aspects of your life.
Operations forces and live ammo. It can
also be a game wherein you yell, Go!
and see how long it takes your 5-year-old
to get out the door and meet you at the
mailbox. If properly crafted, such exercises
can be fun and potentially lifesaving.
Send your teenager a text five minutes
before school lets out that says, There
has been a nuclear attack, and our
neighborhood is overrun with radioactive
mutants. What are you going to do?
Meet them at your pre-ordained rally
point and then go grab some ice cream.
If the zombies ever show up for real, your
kids will remember what to do. It need
not be complicated.
AVAILABLE RESOURCES
Photo: Manu Adan
Ready.gov is well reasoned and nicely

executed. Because it is a government
website, there is naturally precious little
about firearms or defending yourself in a Above: If you have pets, be sure to include them in your plans so you can protect and provide for them during
crisis. Even so, stuff such as government emergencies.
ASG-1709-PLAN.indd 44 6/8/17 9:17 AM

ASG-1709-Aero Precision 5/31/17 8:42 AM Page 1
ASG_1709_45.indd 45 6/5/17 3:56 AM

resources and technical information is
available in spades. (And cool magazines
Above: Keeping
hard copies of THERE ARE SOME
important contact
such as American Survival Guide will keep information is
always a good
GOVERNMENT-SPONSORED
you abreast of all your kinetic options.) idea. Each family
member should
ONLINE RESOURCES THAT CAN
Downloadable PDF files include print-
able emergency action plans for parents,
keep a copy handy.
Use something DO A FINE JOB OF HELPING GET
YOU ORGANIZED WHEN IT COMES
like this two-page
kids and transit commuters. There are checklist to ensure
wallet-sized resources available, as well that important
as tips and pointers on disaster prepa-

stuff is gathered
and available to all
TO PLANNING FOR A CRISIS.
family members.
ration. There is also some explanatory
(Photo: FEMA)
information on the national system for
emergency alerts and warnings. Its all surface. You are never more than a single headline away from having to take responsibil-
there and it doesnt cost you a dime Above right: ity for the safety and security of your family. When that time comes, having a plan can
Vital records and
to use it. paperwork can
make the difference between success and failure, happiness and tragedy.
be difficultor So much of our tax money is squandered on stupid stuff we dont want or need. I
impossibleto
RUMINATIONS replace. In a crisis, couldnt care less about solar-powered beer or a study to determine why bugs are
In its natural state, the world is chaos. it is helpful to attracted to lights (these are, in fact, two actual government projects that burned
keep a checklist of
We push back the best were able, but important papers through more than $100,000 in 2015). However, www.Ready.gov really does have some
the inevitable inestimable entropy of the that need to travel genuinely useful information that could help a great deal in a crisis. Surf on over and
with you. (Photo:
universe is always lurking just beneath the FEMA) check it out. ASG
ASG-1709-PLAN.indd 46 6/8/17 9:17 AM

ASG-1709-OFD Foods_mountain house 5/25/17 7:32 AM Page 1
Diversify your portfolio of survival food by

including the Gold Standard: Mountain House .
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lls even the highest standards. And with our
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NAME
Step 1: Purchase an individual
On a 14-Day Emergency Food Supply! Mountain House 14-Day

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Items can be found at various CITY
online retailers
Step 2: Fill out the form STATE ZIP E-MAIL

completely (form can also be
found at 14DayKit.com).
Step 3: Circle product price on Yes, I would like to receive periodic information and special offers from Mountain House. (e-mail required)
original receipt
UPC (12 digits) Please list individual UPC with purchase price in space below:
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and original receipt in a $
stamped envelope to:
Mountain House
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Offer expires 11/30/17.
Copyright 2017 Mountain House, a division of
OFD Foods, LLC
ASG_1709_47.indd 47 6/5/17 4:04 AM

TRANSFORM
A VINTAGE
FILE INTO A
CELTIC
DAGGER
YOU DONT NEED A FORGE TO MAKE A KNIFE.
STORY BY LARRY SCHWARTZ
PHOTOS BY PAUL KISH
Getty Images
ASG-1709-FILE.indd 48 6/14/17 1:52 AM

A
good friend of mine, Paul
Kish, mentioned that the next
step in his journey to learning
blacksmithing was to make
a knife from a file. I knew this
would be something American Survival Guide
readers would find interesting, and he agreed. So,
with Pauls permission and his able assistance,
here is how he went through the process.
This Celtic dagger is the first knife he has
attempted on his journey into blacksmithing.
Its crafted using only a 1-inch belt sander and a
Dremel-type grinding tool. No forging, annealing
or hardening was needed for this project.
What follows are the six basic steps Paul used
to turn the file into a nice, Celtic-style dagger.
ASG-1709-FILE.indd 49 6/14/17 1:52 AM

Step 1: Pick the Right File NO FORGING,
Paul started this project with a vintage Bell
Systems axe-sharpening file, but any file will
ANNEALING OR
workas long as it is a flat file with a wide HARDENING WAS
handle. The type of teeth on the file doesnt
matter either, because you are going to grind
NEEDED FOR
them off. He decided on this one, because THIS PROJECT.
the full handle makes for a nice, wide tang.
A file with a rattail handle, one that narrows,
will also work, but it will be harder to fit to
the scales of the knife handle.
ASG-1709-FILE.indd 50 6/14/17 1:52 AM

WHAT
YOU NEED
FOR THIS
PROJECT
There are three major parts to this project:
shaping, acid etching and finishing.
For shaping the dagger, you will need

1. An old file
2. A 1-inch belt sander
3. Safety gear (eye protection, work
gloves)
4. A grounding strap (to reduce static
shocks)
5. A round or triangular file for cutting the
slot in the guard
For acid etching, you will need

1. Muriatic acid
2. Hydrogen peroxide
3. Metallic Sharpie marker
4. Electrical tape (optional)
5. A cool design
6. Nitrile gloves
7. Eye protection
8. A plastic container long enough to hold
the file
9. Buckets of water
IF THE SPARKS COMING OFF THE FILE 10. Fine-grit wet-dry sandpaper
11. A work space with very good
CHANGE AS YOU GO DEEPER INTO ventilation
THE METAL, YOU ARE PROBABLY
HITTING SOFT METAL. For finishing, you will need
1. Some wood for the handle and
Another reason Paul chose this file is because it was an older file. He had heard that modern scabbard
files are often only hardened on the outside, so be careful. If the sparks coming off the file 2. A Dremel-type rotary tool
change as you go deeper into the metal, you are probably hitting soft metal. 3. Two-part epoxy adhesive
4. Leather stripping
Step 2: Smooth and Shape Your File 5. Clear polyurethane and a way to apply it
Once you have selected your file, it is time to put on your protective gear and get to work.
Attach your grounding strap to something metaland to yourself. Paul didnt use one at
first and got shocks in his hands about three seconds apart the entire time. Its generally not
especially dangerous, but it got old really fast.
Using the 1-inch belt sander, begin removing metal to make the rectangular file into a
pointed blade. You can do this by eye; alternatively, if you want a specific shape to the blade,
you will want to mark the outline with a pencil or felt-tip marker.
Once you have the shape you are looking for, you can work on grinding off the file teeth. The
file is hardened steel, so this will take awhile. Be patient, because rushing your work can result
in an uneven thickness to your blade.
With the teeth removed, you can now start curving the flat down to make the cutting edge.
ASG-1709-FILE.indd 51 6/14/17 1:53 AM

ATTACH YOUR GROUNDING
STRAP TO SOMETHING METAL
AND TO YOURSELF. PAUL DIDNT
USE ONE AT FIRST AND GOT
SHOCKS IN HIS HANDS ABOUT
THREE SECONDS APART THE
ENTIRE TIME.
Take care shaping the cutting edges. You want

to get them close to sharpened, but dont go
too far. Better to leave a flat edge of 1/8 inch
that you can sharpen by hand later rather
than taking off too much and then having an
odd-shaped blade.
Step 3: The Tang and Guard

Paul wanted to put a brass guard on the knife,
so he purchased some solid brass line cleats from
a local boat store.
To make the slot in the cleats for the knifes
tang to go through, you will need to remove the
brass between the screw holes. The best way to
do this is to use a round- or triangular-shaped
file. Start in one hole and work your way across
ASG-1709-FILE.indd 52 6/14/17 1:53 AM

to the other hole. A line drawn between the two
holes will help you get a straight slot instead
of a curved or wavy one. Go slowly with this,
because you dont want to remove too much
metal. If you make the opening too large, the
guard might not fit snuggly.
Once you have your slot in the guard, start
grinding the tang so it will fit into the slot you cut
in the guard. Paul got the guard to slide just over
the base of the blade.
If you dont like the size of the cleat/guard,
grind it down to the look you want. Brass is very
soft, so go carefully here. Use a fine-grit belt to
polish it up.
If the guard moves around against the
blade too much, you can still continue to
the acid-etching step; just secure the guard
with J-B KwikWeld when you attach it to the
handle later on.
Step 4: Acid-Etching Your

Design
It is time to apply your design to the blade.
Put your design on paper. Paul chose a style of
Celtic braid so it could follow the blade. You will
need to transfer or freehand it. Regular pencil
will show up on the metal and is the easiest way
to apply the design.
ASG-BG17-Doom & Bloom 3/29/17 10:24 AM Page 1

ASG-1709-FILE.indd 53 6/14/17 1:53 AM

Use a metallic Sharpie to apply the
image to one side of the blade, and then
put the mirror image on the reverse side.
Paint the parts you want to stay shiny
with the Sharpie. Cover the blade edges
and tang with electrical tape so they do
not get etched by the acid bath. Because
the metallic Sharpie and electrical tape
block the acid from reaching the metal,
you are basically creating a negative
image of the finished design.
Next, put on your eye protection and
Nitrile gloves. In a well-ventilated area,
pour one part muriatic acid (e.g., 1 pint)
into a plastic container (Paul used a plastic
paint roller tray). Then, add two parts
(2 pintswhich equals 1 quart) hydrogen
peroxide to the muriatic acid. Dont add
the acid to the peroxide, because it will
bubble up and splash acid.
Carefully place the blade into the bath.
Right: There
The longer you leave it, the more defined are many types
the etching will be. Paul left his knife in for of Celtic designs
to choose from.
around three hours. This one is more
Once its done, rinse the knife thoroughly to intricate than
Pauls and is
remove all the etching solution. Use 300-grit better suited for
wet-dry sandpaper (under water) to gently wider blades.
remove any remaining metallic marker.

A note on the blocking material: The
metal in the metallic Sharpie will be eaten
by the acid, leaving a weathered or
ancient-looking patina. For cleaner, more
pronounced lines, fingernail polish and
remover work very well.
CAREFULLY PLACE THE BLADE

INTO THE BATH. THE LONGER YOU
LEAVE IT, THE MORE DEFINED THE
ETCHING WILL BE.
ASG-1709-FILE.indd 54 6/14/17 1:53 AM

ASG-1705-Grace Holt-Atabase 1/26/17 7:29 AM Page 1
Step 5: Handle and Scabbard

Paul chose walnut for his knife handle, because
he liked the natural color when wet.
Cut your wood or other handle material into
suitable sizes for the handle and scabbard.
Trace out your tang with the guard in place; do
the same with the blade without the guard.
You will need to sand a spot for the guard to
sit in later.
Start grinding the wood away until you get to
half the thickness of the tang for the handle.
You will want it to be a little more than half
the thickness of the blade for the scabbard.
Test-fit them often until the two pieces of
wood meet without gaps.
The scabbard should allow the blade to be
drawn and inserted smoothly. Make sure there is
extra room for the point to go into, because you
will still need to sand things down.
Once your fit is good, fit the guard to the blade,
fill both sides of the handle with epoxy, and
clamp tightly, with the blade end pointing up. If
you have it pointing blade down, the epoxy will
run out of the handle and all over the blade. If
there is space between the guard and blade, fill it
with a little J-B KwikWeld.
A note of interest for those who want to make
a knife they will actually use as a cutting tool: As
described, this dagger is suitable for decorative
use, such as costumes or wall displays. If you
only attach the handle to the tang with epoxy,
ASG-1709-FILE.indd 55 6/14/17 1:53 AM

REMEMBER TO CHECK
YOUR LOCAL LAWS
REGARDING THE LENGTH
OF KNIVES YOU CAN
CARRY WITH YOU.
the handle might come off in hard use. If you intend to use it hard,
drill two or three holes through one handle scale, through the tang
and out the other handle scale. Then, fix pins in the holes you just
made and sand them flush.
For the scabbard, put a thin line of epoxy on the mating surfaces
and clamp them, point end up, until set. You dont want epoxy
setting up on the inside, because this will block the blade. Once
the epoxy is set, sand the wood to the shape you want. On the
scabbard, sand, carve or grind notches for the guard to settle into.
Use progressively finer grit to smooth things out.
Step 6: Detailing and Finishing

Now that you have the blade, handle and scabbard completed,
its time to add some embellishments to your dagger. Paul used
4mm leather stripping and an old dirk frog (basically just a leather
loop) to dress it up. You can do whatever you want: For instance,
carve a pattern into the wood, stain it a different color, embed
real or synthetic gemstones in the handle and scabbard, or inlay
it with silver or gold wire. Once its to your liking, finish it with
polyurethane to protect it and keep all the leather secure.
Your dagger is done. If your file was made from good steel that
is hard enough to take an edge but not so hard that it is brittle,
you should be able to sharpen it to a pretty fine edge, if you are
so inclined. If the quality of the steel isnt that good, you will still
be able to put an edge on it, but it might be best for ceremonial
or costume use.
One finalbut importantnote: Remember to check your local
laws regarding the length of knives you can carry with you. ASG
ASG-1709-FILE.indd 56 6/14/17 1:53 AM

ASG-1706-Vista Outdoors_Bushnell 2/28/17 10:27 AM Page 1
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ASG_1709_37.indd 57 6/5/17 4:08 AM

DOG TREATS
KITTING OUT YOUR K9
COMPILED BY FRANK WARREN
Rex Specs
Large Dog
Goggles
Overview
While allowing for full movement of
the jaw and complete visibility, Rex
Specs dog goggles protect your dogs
eyes from debris, environmental
hazards, and the sun or snow
blindness. All lenses are UVA/
UVB protective. Rex Specs
dog goggles come with two
interchangeable lenses: one
clear and a second lens color of
your choice.
Specifications
Designed for working dogs
Assists in the treatment of chronic
superficial keratitis
Rated ANSI Z87.1
Rated UV400 from UVA/UVB rays
Frame colors: Blue, purple, black,
coyote, red, orange, neon pink,
airport yellow
Lens colors: Clear, smoke, red revo,
blue revo
MSRP
$79.95
URL
www.RexSpecs.com
ASG-1709-DOGGEAR.indd 58 6/5/17 7:00 AM

Ruffwear Approach Pack
Overview Specifications
The Ruffwear Approach Pack allows Customizable fit with five points of ad-
dogs to carry their own gear without justment allow for full range of motion
inhibiting their movement. The inte- Single-piece, anodized aluminum V-ring
and webbing loop attachment points
grated harness aids in fit, pack stability
Stash pockets and external gear loops
and overall structure. The rounded
Harness suspension system provides
saddlebags are form fitting and better
stability, comfort and fit
at carrying a load than rectangular
Colors: Meadow green or orange poppy
bags. Combined with the lightweight
Sizes: XS to L/XL
materials and a streamlined design,
Capacities: XS/6 liters; S/12.5 liters;
the Approach Pack is comfortable and
M/14.5 liters; L/XL/24 liters
allows dogs to carry trail necessities.
MSRP
$79.95
URL
www.Ruffwear.com
Adventure Medical Kits

Me & My Dog Medical Kit
With dual purpose in mind, the Me & Wound care/cuts: 45 pieces of assorted
My Dog Medical Kit is for both you and bandages, eye wash, wipes, gloves and
more
your dog, providing a host of gear that
Sprain/strain: Triangular bandage,
can treat injuries to humans, as well as
Instant Cold compress and safety pins
dogs. Weighing only 1.47 pounds, this
Medical instruction/instruments: Two
kit contains all the first aid essentials
manuals, shears, forceps, hydrogen
you would expect in a fully loaded peroxide and survival blanket
first aid kit. The whole kit fits into a
Medication: Aspirin and antihistamine
7.5x3.5x5.3-inch pouch, while the gear,
itself, is split into two waterproof bags MSRP
to keep everything fresh and clean. $50
URL
www.AdventureMedicalKits.com
Feliscanis Tactical Dog Vest

The soft 1000D nylon on the outside helps Vest material: 1000D nylon
avoid irritation on the dogs body, while the Strap material: Nylon
grid design of the vest allows for breathabil- MOLLE system webbing
ity and comfort. A soft pad insert on the Metal leash buckle
collar prevents chafing on the dog's neck. Sizes: M and L with adjustable fit
There is a carry handle and leash buckle
MSRP
on each end of the vest, along with MOLLE
$35.83
system webbing on both sides for adding
pouches and other accessories. URL
www.Feliscanis.net

OneTigris Tactical K9
Training Vest
The Tactical K9 Training Vest is made Easy to put on and take off
from two layers of waterproof 1000D Loop-and-pile sides
nylon fabric with a soft, padded lining Quick-release buckle
for the dog's comfort. All seams are Sizes: XSXL
reinforced for strength and durability, Weight: 6.3 ounces (S); 9.5 ounces (L)
while a sturdy, padded handle and Available in black and coyote brown
metal leash clip at the top of the Capacities: XS/6 liters; S/12.5 liters;
harness help keep control of the dog. M/14.5 liters; L and XL/24 liters
The front chest strap has two slides MSRP
for better two-way adjustment. $27.99
URL
www.OneTigris.com
Outward Hound Port-A-Bowl

Keep your dog hydrated while on the 24- and 48-ounce sizes
trail or in the field. This collapsible Folds flat, cleans easily and dries fast
bowl is a good way to give your dog a Dimensions: 3x4.5 inches (Small); 3.5x6
drink without taking up a lot of space inches (Large)
between uses. The Port-A-Bowl tucks MSRP
easily into a backpack, pocket or purse $5.99
and provides an easy way to give your
dog food and water while on the go. URL
www.OutwardHound.com
Doggles Trail Trackers Boots

Doggles Trail Trackers Boots are great Flexible for dog's movements
for all conditions and weather. They Excellent insulation against the cold
are designed to stay on your dogs Prevents scrapes and cuts in rough
feet, no matter what the terrain is. terrain
These boots feature wide openings Sizes XXSXXL
and two hook-and-loop straps. The MSRP
rubber soles provide traction, and the $39.59
neoprene material is durable.
URL
www.Woof.Doggles.com

Midwest Pet Products
Side-by-Side SUV Crates
The key feature of the Midwest SUV Crates Black electro-coated finish is
is that they fit side by side in the back of tough, attractive and long lasting
midsized or large SUVs and vans. Two mod- ABS pan included to keep messes
away from your vehicle
els are available, and although one is larger
Folds easily without tools so you
than the other, they are both 21 inches wide,
can stow it conveniently
giving an overall width of 42 inches for both
crates together. One door on each end of MSRP
the crate provides great flexibility in how $165.99
you use the crates: Clean dogs enter from
URL
the vehicle side, while dirty dogs come in
www.MidwestPetProducts.com
through the tailgate door.
Ruffwear Jet Stream

Cooling Vest
The Ruffwear Jet Stream Three-layer construction chest panel cools the
efficiently cools dogs on hot dogs core:
days through shading and evap- Wicking outer layer facilitates evaporation.
orative cooling. The Jet Stream Absorbent middle layer holds water for
evaporation.
uses shade-providing spandex
Comfortable inner layer transfers cooling
over the back, while Ruffwears
effect to the dog.
three-layer evaporative cooling
Vest cut for fast and light athletic endeavors
chest panel disperses heat from
Zippered closure for easy fit
the dogs core.
Sizes: XXSXL
MSRP
$39.95
URL
www.Ruffwear.com
5.11 Tactical TAC K9

Handler Gloves
Created as a result of input from K9 teams Stretch mesh back panel
around the country, the TAC K9 glove is TPR knuckle impact protection
specifically engineered for canine patrol zones
officers. The palm features reinforcements Elastic cuff with hook-and-loop
closure
at contact surfaces on the palm, thumb
Sizes: SXXL
and trigger finger, ensuring lead control
and extending glove life. The patented MSRP
TacticalTouch precision fingertip design $39.99
offers exceptional tactility when perform-
ing pat-downs or presenting your firearm.
URL
www.511Tactical.com
Flexible TPR knuckle impact protection zones
guard against abrasion and laceration.
ASG-1709-DOGGEAR.CX.indd 61 6/8/17 11:11 PM

Insect Shield Bug Repellent
Dog Blanket
Perfect for any outdoor activity where Material: 100% polyester with a nylon
there are bugs (everywhere!), the carrying bag
Insect Shield portable blanket is Treatment lasts through 25 washings
soft, comfortable and lightweight. It Odorless protection
features built-in insect protection for Lightweight
your pet, and it is easily transportable Size: 56x48 inches
in a small stuff sack. This blanket is MSRP
the result of intensive research and $36.99
field studies that have proven its
effectiveness in repelling mosquitoes, URL
ticks, fleas and flies. www.Chewy.com
Insect Shield Reversible Bug

Repellent Dog Bed
Meant for use inside the crate and Removable cover for laundering
outside, as well, this reversible dog Sized to fit most wire crates
bed protects your pet from insect Four sizes: S, M, M/L, L
bites with Insect Shields proprietary
MSRP
materials. The repellency lasts approx-
From $29.99
imately 25 washings, and all Insect
Shield Repellent Gear products are URL
EPA registered to repel mosquitoes, www.Chewy.com
ticks, flies and fleas.
Uncommon Goods Dog Bowl

Water Bottle
Designed just for dogs, this water Fits any standard car cup holder
bottle keeps them well hydrated while Food-safe and BPA-free polypropylene
on the go. With just a squeeze of the Dimensions: 8.5x4.25 inches
bottle, the attached dish fills with Capacity: 20 ounces
water at a convenient height for dogs
MSRP
to drink. This patented design is leak-
$15
proof, and excess water drains back
into the bottle to minimize waste. The URL
adjustable strap lets you attach the www.UncommonGoods.com
bottle to a backpack, belt or wrist.

NAR K-9 Handler IFAK Kit
The North American Rescue K-9 Handler Kit Dimensions: 7x4.5x2.75 inches
enables handlers to provide lifesaving treat- Some contents include: C-A-T
ment to injured canines when veterinary care tourniquet; assorted dressings;
HyFin Vent Chest Seal, twin
is not immediately available. This kit and its
pack; ARS; needle decompres-
contents are compact, durable and allow the
sion kit, 14 gauge; digital vet
handler to carry an individual first aid kit that thermometer
can be used for rendering care to the handler, Colors: Black, coyote, OD green,
their canine or other injured persons. multicam
MSRP
$124.99
URL
www.NARescue.com
MIA K9 Tactical Military

Dog Collar
Made from high-quality materials, such Tear- and wear-proof
as AustriAlpin Cobra buckles used in most Break- and snap-proof
climbing gear, this 1.5-inch-wide dog collar Colors: Black, coyote brown,
has military-grade polyamide webbing dark coyote, olive green, tan,
sand
sewn into two layers for extra toughness.
The handle makes it easier to control your Sizes: M-XL
pet during tough situations. MSRP
$40.15
URL
www.MIAK9.co.uk
Sea Pet Good2Go Hammock

Dog Seat
To keep the interior of your car clean Dimensions: 58X59 inches
instead of covered in hair, fur and Color: Gray
scratched from your dogs nailsthe Strong, adjustable straps for easy
Good2Go No-Fur Zone Hammock dog installation and secure fit
car seat cover provides a great barrier Durable, water-resistant backing
for added protection against
between your dog and your upholstery.
accidents and spills
Made from soft fleece, it has strong
straps and is easy to install. MSRP
$56.98
URL
www.Sea-Pet.com

Glow Hero GlowCollar
Dark-colored dogs are at a disad- Modes: Fast blink, blink, steady
vantage (and danger) at night due Visibility: 600 yards
to a lack of visibility. However, the Colors: Green, orange, red, blue
Glow Hero GlowCollar features two Sizes: Large (18.5-22.5 pounds); medium
methods of visibility: an active LED (16-18.75 pounds); small (15-16.5
pounds)
and passive reflective stitching. The
Weight: 3 ounces
collar is water resistant, made from
high-strength nylon and weighs MSRP
only 3 ounces. $39.99
URL
www.GlowHero.com
Gamma2, Inc. Vittles Vault

Outback 50
A big problem for preppers is storing Includes free scoop
enough food for their pets while Space efficient; tall profile
keeping the food fresh. With sealed lids Use a dry-erase marker to personalize
and made from tough materials, the your lid sticker
Vittles Vault is strong enough to keep Food-grade, BPA-free HDPE plastic
out pests and rodents while keeping Dimensions: 14x14x20 inches
the food free from moisture. The Vittles Capacity: 13 gallons (about 50 pounds
of dog food)
Vault comes in various sizes.
MSRP
$32.49
URL
www.VittlesVault.com
Woof Hoofs Black Diamond

Winter Dog Boots
Woof Hoofs winter boots are made of Neoprene upper
stretchable, insulating neoprene material. Double straps
These boots protect a dogs paws against Rubber sole
snow and snow-melting chemicals. They use Size: XXSXXL
a durable, yet exible, rubber traction sole.
MSRP
The dual-strap design ensures a secure fit
From $28.99
that minimizes slipping, ipping or falling off.
URL
www.WoofHoofs.com
ASG-1709-DOGGEAR.CX.indd 64 6/8/17 11:12 PM

Rogue K9 4.5-Foot Adjustable
Dog Leash
Weighing just 5 ounces, the Rogue K9 dog Kong Frog carabiner buckle
leash is made with double-ply, 1-inch A-A- Width: 1 inch
55301 MIL-SPEC webbing, ITW G-Hook and Materials: A-A-55301 MIL-SPEC
Kong Frog carabiner, rendering it extremely webbing
durable and perfectly suited for any situation. ITW G-Hook
At a length of roughly 4.5 feet, the leashs stra- MSRP
tegically placed openings and ITW G-Hook $49.95
allow for quick adjustments to the length.
URL
www.Etsy.com
Outward Hound DayPak

The DayPak allows your pup to comfortably Expandable pockets
carry extra gear and essentials that are just D-ring leash attachment
for him. A light-capacity pack, it features a Adjustable straps
saddlebag-style design that is ideal for both Breathable mesh harness
quick getaways and everyday errands with Reflective accents and vibrant
your dog. There are four expandable pockets, colors enhance visibility
and a leash can attach directly to the DayPaks Colors: Green, blue
D-ring clip. Sizes: SL
MSRP
$34.99
URL
www.OutwardHound.com
PAWS Aboard Neoprene

Pet Life Jacket
Of course, dogs can swim, but like people, New, reflective strips for
some are better at it than others. The PAWS maximum visibility
Aboard Pet Life Jacket provides buoyancy Bright colors and unique designs
and high visibility to keep pets safe in or Handle on top for quick and easy
grabbing
around the water. It features an advanced
Adjustable nylon straps
breathable mesh underbelly for proper
Quick-release buckles
draining and drying, which provides comfort
Sizes: XXSXL
and minimizes chafing.
MSRP
$32.99
URL
www.FidoPetProducts.com

OBSERVE,
ADAPT,
SURVIVE
GETTY IMAGES
ASG-1709-ENVIRONMENT.indd 66 6/5/17 7:21 AM

STUDYING YOUR
ENVIRONMENT PAYS BIG
SURVIVAL DIVIDENDS.
BY DANA BENNER

T
he act of surviving any Above: This area
is a great place to
situation involves as much gather food; it is
mental might as physical also dangerous. A
cut here can lead
strength. Sure, physical to an infection that
could take you out
well-being plays a large
of the game.
part without a doubt, but it is those
people who understand the situation and
Right: This area
who dont let the mental pressures beat screams danger.
them down who will survive. Dont linger here.
Get to higher and
One way to deal with the mental drier ground.
pressures is knowledge, which will lead
to understanding the environment you
find yourself in. Whether you are in an
urban environment, a desert or a swamp,
knowing what that particular environ-
ment can offer you and how you can
best utilize its resources will help ensure
your survival. All the fancy, top-of-the-
line equipment will do you no good if
you dont use your brain to recognize the
assets available around you.
Every year, I travel to an area I am
unfamiliar with. I spend about two weeks
studying the environment. I learn as much
as I can about the resourcesboth man-
made and naturalthat can be utilized if I
ever find myself in a bad situation.
I speak with, and listen to, native elders
about how their people have survived
for thousands of years. I watch birds and
animals, because doing so will teach you a
great deal if you are willing to take the time
to observe them. I try to learn about the
best places to shelter and the areas to stay

ALL THE FANCY, TOP-OF-THE-
LINE EQUIPMENT WILL DO YOU
NO GOOD IF YOU DONT USE
YOUR BRAIN TO RECOGNIZE
THE ASSETS AVAILABLE
AROUND YOU.
away from. I learn which plants are edible, which ones will kill you
quickly and which ones have healing properties.
Can I gather all the information I need in two weeks? Of course
not, but I can gather enough to keep me alive. The learning process
is an ongoing process. A Pequot elder once told me, Nobody knows
everything, but everybody knows something. If we stop learning, if
we stop asking questions, we are already dead.
THE LEARNING BEGINS

As soon as you step one foot beyond your comfort zone, the
learning begins. I am very comfortable in a natural environment:
I grew up in a rural area. I have hunted and fished most of my life,
WHAT TO DO
and I grow as much of my food as I can. As soon as I step out of that
environment and enter a city, I am on guard.
Unfortunately, most airports are in cities. I always make sure to
arrive early so I can get a lay of the land. No weapons are allowed
in airports, so I must rely on my mind as my primary defensive tool.
If you find yourself in a survival situation, what are you going to do?
I locate all exits and find nooks and crannies where bad things can
Assess the situation: Dont panic! Decide whether you need to leave
happen and then, I stay away from them.
or stay in place. Locate possible threats, and eliminate them by safely and
I sit with my back against a wall so nobody can get behind
quickly removing yourself from the threat. Do not confront the threat unless
me, and my eyes are always moving, trying to locate potential
you need to. Remember: Use your head.
threats before they can do any harm to me or someone else. I
Locate and collect resources: Whether you are in an urban or natural
credit this heightened awareness to my 12 years of enhanced
environment, you need to know what you have and what you need. If you
U.S. Army training.
have your pack, you have enough resources to survive for a couple days. Let the
Sometimes, my wife travels with me. She, unlike me, is comfort-
environment tell you where to find additional resources, and take advantage of
ableno matter where she isalmost to the point of throwing
everything you find.
caution to the wind. This raises my survival senses to new levels,
Secure shelter: Establish a safe and defendable shelter to ride out the
because I need to protect her as much, if not more, than I do myself.
situation. It is not always the visible dangers that will take you down. Dehy-
When I get to wherever I am going and can get out of the city, my
dration and exposure will kill you quicker than anything else. A shelter will
senses (which have been on overdrive) can relax. They dont turn
protect you from the elements.
off, because every new place can produce unseen and unknown
dangers, but the intensity is different. I can then truly engage my
learning mode and am open to the lessons being presented.
Above: Cattails, rushes and reeds indicate fresh water.
Left: This black racer in the Florida Keys is a great food source if you can catch it.

WATCH AND LEARN
We all know people need food, water
and shelter to survive. No matter where
we are, we need these basic things. To find
them, all we need to do is keep our eyes
and ears open.
Water. Even in places such as Arizonas
Sonora Desert, one of the hottest and dri-
est places I have ever found myself, there is
water. How about the Florida Keys? These
islands, which are surrounded by saltwater,
do have natural freshwater sources. So,
how do you find them?
The very first thing I do when I get myself
into an area is find a water source. I do this
by looking at the vegetation. All plants need
Be aware of
potential dangers AS SOON AS YOU STEP ONE FOOT
BEYOND YOUR COMFORT ZONE,
both natural and
water to survive, but some need less water man-made. It is the
ones you dont see
than others. Some flora, such as mangrove
trees, can survive in brackish water (a
that will get you.
THE LEARNING BEGINS.
mixture of both fresh and saltwater). People
cant drink brackish water, but the man- moisture out of the air.
groves indicate there is a freshwater source Sometimes, as in the American Southwest, the water will not be obvious. It might be
nearbybecause you cant have brackish underground, or maybe it will only be a small seep among a pile of boulders. In these situa-
water without freshwater. As you get closer tions, I look for both plants and animals or signs that animals frequent the area.
to the freshwater, you will start to see trees Mangroves All animals need freshwater, so let them lead you to it. Follow game trails if youre able to
indicate freshwater
such as maples and oaks, bulrushes and nearby. Other find some. Just be careful: Predators often hunt near water sources.
broadleafed trees
cattails. Dont rely on the presence of mosses, Continue to watch the plants to identify possible sources of water. In the Arizona
indicate higher and
because these plants have the ability to take drier land, as well. desert, many of the plants growing there can live with very little water, but there are

THE ACT OF SUR- Even in urban
areas, food can
be found outside
VIVING ANY SITU- grocery stores.
ATION INVOLVES
AS MUCH MENTAL
MIGHT AS PHYSI-
CAL STRENGTH.
also a few cottonwood or willow trees.
These trees are great indicators of a good
source of freshwater.
Shelter. Now that you have found a water
source, what about shelter? The tendency
to build your shelter extremely close to the
water is one that many novices fall prey to.
Dont do it, because this mistake can kill you
in more ways than one. You found this water
source, so that means othersboth two- and
four-leggedwill find it also. Remember: You Lizards seem to be
everywhere, whether
arent camping; you are in a survival situa- in the tropics or the
tion, and the competition is on for everything desert, and they
make an easy meal.
that can sustain life. Never pass them up.
Like my native ancestors before me, I want
my shelter on the highest ground possible.
First, it is drier than areas close to the water.
A sudden rainstorm could flood the lower
area. Believe me, you dont want any part
of that. In addition, biting insects tend to be
less problematic the higher up you go, and
there is more fuel available for your fire.
High ground gives me the ability to
survey the surrounding area, enabling me
to detect both food and possible danger.
Higher ground is also easier to defend.
Keep in mind that there are always things
out there that will try to get you. Building
your shelter on higher ground will make
you much safer. Just be very careful you
dont signal your presence, which is also
easier to do at higher levels.
Use available materials to construct a shel-
ter that will protect you from the elements
and possible threats and that blends into
the surrounding area. If you keep all this in
mind, you should be all set. There are many
different shelters and ways to make them
way too many to discuss here. Knowledge of
building several types of debris or expedient
shelters should be something you have
before venturing into unknown areas.
Food. While I always carry some food with
me (see the sidebar on page 74), the ability
to secure food is needed for situations lasting
longer than a few days. You probably wont
know how long your situation will last, but it Frogs are always
good sources of
makes sense to investigate your food options food. But be careful,
sooner rather than later. because some are
poisonous (this one
My father used to say, If it walks, crawls, is not). If in doubt,
flies or swims, you can eat it. While this is leave it alone.

IN TODAYS WORLD, IT IS VERY EASY TO GET
COMPLACENT AND NOT TAKE SERIOUSLY THE
PREPARATIONS FOR DEALING WITH THE CHALLENGES
WELL FACE IN ANY VARIETY OF SURVIVAL SITUATIONS.
Snakes, such as
this one in Floridas
Corkscrew Swamp,
make great food
sources.
Right: Proper not entirely true, it does drive home the

footwear is a must
at all times. The point that food is all around us. The roots of
coast is a great cattails are edible, as are the young shoots
place to gather
food, but always of ferns, called fiddleheads. Many berries
wear something on are edible, but use caution here, because
your feet because
of hidden dangers some are poisonous. In a true survival
such as rays, lion-
fish, scorpionfish
situation, you can set snares to catch birds
and urchins. These and small animals. That water source you
Chaco sandals are
perfect because of found probably has some fish, frogs, snakes
their thick soles. (once again, use caution here), all of which
make a good meal.
Below: Turtles
make a great sur- Man-Made. Humans have been part of
vival food, and the the environment for thousands of years.
shells can be used
for many purposes. Take advantage of what past human
Near left: Shallow

coastal waters are
easy to access and
can yield food, such
as this large hermit
crab.

KI-1705-Jantz 2/20/17 9:35 AM Page 1
1-800-351-8900
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ASG_1709_73.indd 73 6/14/17 3:49 AM

IN MY PACK PEOPLE HAVE SURVIVED IN THIS
WORLD BY LEARNING TO DEAL AND
WORK WITH THE ENVIRONMENT
My pack always goes with me, wherever I venture.
Although many of the things I carry will depend on where I AROUND THEM.
am going, there are some things I always have in there.
FIXED-BLADE KNIFE
A thick-bladed sheath knife is a must. It serves so many
functions that it is very hard to get by without one. There
are many good knives out there, but the one I carry is the
Gerber StrongArm.
WATER
I always carry water. It could be a day or two before I find a
reliable water source, so what I carry will keep me going. I
carry my water in Hide-Away collapsible flasks. In addition,
any water found along the way needs to be treatedeither
by chemicals, boiling or filtration. For ease, I like to use a
portable filtration system such as the Sawyer Mini.
FOOD
I always carry some food in my pack. There are a ton of
brands out there, but I have found that Mountain House
and Paleo Meals To Go work best for me. Additionally,
there are always some Lawless or Three Jerks jerky or some
of The New Primal meat sticks in my pack, as well as some
Simple Squares snack bars.
FIRST AID KIT

I never leave home without it.
FIRE
I carry paper matches, wooden matches, a friction device and
a few butane lighters on my person and in my pack. I store
them in resealable plastic sandwich bags to keep them dry.
COMPASS
I dont rely upon electronics, because they can fail. I take a
reading with my compass before I set out and then use the
Old Mans Beard is a lichen found almost everywhere east of the Mississippi (this image
compass to get me back. happens to be of the Corkscrew Swamp in Florida). It makes great fire tinder. Collect it as
you go so you will have it when you need it.
occupation has left behind. It could be in the form of shelter or supplies. You never know
until you find these opportunities.
If there is an old, abandoned structure of some sort, it was put there for a reason. Perhaps
it was an area of good hunting or fishing. Maybe it indicates a reliable water source. Chances
are, both were available at the time it was built, because the builders had the same basic
needs we do today. Being able to recognize these features in the environment where you
find yourself could save your life.
PAY ATTENTION
Survival is simply the ability to stay alive. In todays world, it is very easy to get complacent
and not take seriously the preparations for dealing with the challenges well face in any
variety of survival situations.
There are people who say all we need is to own the latest and the greatest gadgets in
order to survive. However, the most important tool humans have is our brain, along with
the ability to use it. People have survived in this world by learning to deal and work with the
environment around them. We can, too, as long as we are willing to be good observers and
GETTY IMAGES
listen to the lessons being taught.

ASG-BG17-World Gone Silent 4/12/17 9:36 AM Page 1
ASG_1709_75.indd 75 6/5/17 4:14 AM

CENTER LINE
SYSTEMS
ANSWERS THE CALL
ASG-1709-CENTER.indd 76 6/5/17 7:48 AM

E KEEP THINKING,
KEEPING MOVING,
NEVER QUIT!
BY KEVIN ESTELA
M
odifying gear is not a new process. Soldiers cut
off magazine pouch flaps, backpackers replace
heavyweight components with lighter materials,
and Jeep enthusiasts are known to add to their
factory rig with countless aftermarket products
from time to time.
It seems whenever there is a disconnect between a maker of a
product and the end user, the product is doomed to be modified
until it resembles what the user always wanted it to be. Some-
times, the end product is the result of an easy fix; other times, it
looks like Frankensteins monster.
Every once in a while, a company comes along that simply gets
it and eliminates the need for modification. Its products represent
the thoughts and wishes of the users, and there is no need for
modification for improvement. Its designs might not be new, but
they are perfectly executed.
One such company is Center Line Systems. Designed by outdoors-
men, for outdoorsmen, this manufacturers products are the result of
cumulative ideas. Center Line Systems has tested, modified, refined
and ultimately improved upon some classic, basic, go-to pieces of
gear that we will always want, need and keep.

GEN 2 GEAR ROLL (G 2)
The Center Line Systems Gear Roll makes organization simple. Much like a traditional tool
roll, this product features assorted pocket sizes secured with hook-and-loop fastener flaps. The
G2 Gear Roll is rolled shut and secured with two 1-inch webbing straps that run over the
bundle. There are two additional docking straps included with each gear roll for
mounting it on the exterior of another pack or to the bottom of
the Mother Canteen carrier.
The Generation 2 Gear Roll can be used to hold
commonly used camp tools such as folding
saws, larger flashlights, hanks of cordage,
signaling equipment or other items that
otherwise could be lost at the bottom of a pack. The
G2 Gear Roll can be worn as a modified chest rig with
the addition of a length of paracord around the neck and
attached to the fabric tabs; alternatively, it can be strapped
to a tree when in camp to keep group gear organized in a central
location. It can be used to organize a dedicated emergency kit, The Center Line
Systems G2 Gear Roll has
cleaning supplies and tools for firearms, food-gathering gear or a an assortment of pouch
bushcraft shelter kit, complete with tarp, ground cloth, ridgeline cord pockets that will organize
plenty of the small items
and tent pegs. you carry in your kit.
MSRP: $85
CENTER LINE SYSTEMS HAS TESTED,

MODIFIED, REFINED AND ULTIMATELY
IMPROVED UPON SOME CLASSIC,
BASIC, GO-TO PIECES OF GEAR
Left: The G2 Gear Roll can be secured to a tree with the provided straps so it is
placed in a central location in camp to organize group gear.
Left: The
Center Line
Systems G2
Gear Roll is
available in
a number of
colors and
camo patterns.

THE MOTHER CANTEEN
CARRIER
The Mother Canteen Carrier is an evolution of the U.S. military
canteen pouch, adapted to carry a multitude of water bottles.
While designed to carry the Heavy Cover Titanium Canteen, it can
easily carry a Nalgene bottle with nesting cup, insulated bottle
pocket during winter months, VARGO BOT or similarly sized bottles.
This canteen carrier can be attached to a web belt, MOLLE panel or
worn over the shoulder with the provided strap.
The Mother Canteen Carrier allows the user to build a small
emergency kit around a water container. The two side pockets close
with buckles, as does the larger center exterior pocket. There is also a
sleeve pocket for the Heavy Cover Titanium Canteen lid or for instant
coffee packets. The Mother is equipped with webbing slots on the
bottom of the carrier to attach auxiliary gear, such as rolled-up
ponchos or the Center Line Systems Gen 2 Gear Roll.
After the purchase of a quality knife, I would rank the purchase
of a quality canteen and carrying system second in importance.
Paracord, fire-starting materials and first-aid gear will all get used
and replaced, but my kit still contains the same knife and water
bottle components that have been with me for years.
MSRP: $100
ASG-1709-CENTER.CX.indd 79 6/8/17 11:54 PM

S-CARD SYSTEM
Shotgun shells arent as easily carried as rifle and pistol cartridges in convenient magazines.
They tend to make a lot of noise when thrown loose into an open pocket, and when carried in
a box, they are, well, boxy. The Center Line Systems S-Card System is the solution for organized
and streamlined extra ammunition carry. Each S-Card holds six rounds of 12-gauge ammuni-
tion in individual elastic loops. Each S-card can be mounted on the buttstock of a shotgun for
on-the-weapon ammunition carry or worn on the belt. Additionally, if your equipment has an
attached loop patch, the back of the S-Card can be adhered directly to it.
The S-Cards fit perfectly into cargo pockets, and two S-Cards can be pressed together to hold
12 rounds of ammunition back to back. We tested ours at the range and numerous nights out in
the field. During the day, we would pocket our spare ammo, and at night, we attached it to our
shotgun to prevent it from getting lost.
MSRP: $25 per card
The S-Card System can be mounted to a

variety of gear in multiple ways.
EVERY ONCE IN A WHILE, A COMPANY COMES ALONG THAT SIMPLY

GETS IT AND ELIMINATES THE NEED FOR MODIFICATION.
EVERYDAY CARRY (EDC) BELT

A sturdy pistol belt is absolutely essential to support the weight of gear carried
on the waist. Far too often, concealed carry is executed poorly, because the
weight of a handgun or spare magazines causes the belt to flop and therefore
pull away from the body, where it increases the chances of them printing. The
Center Line Systems EDC Belt is 1.5 inches wide and has an internal stiffener.
The belt has a single Cobra buckle that replaces a traditional roller buckle found
on other belts. One side of the buckle is sewn to the belt; the other is left open
where the loose end of the belt is threaded through prior to use.
The benefit of the Cobra buckle is its quick-release feature. For those who wear
the same clothes day in and day while out in the field and might need to put
their pants on quickly, there is no faster and more secure buckle available. There
are various available belt sizes, and ideally, the belt should have enough room
to expand to accommodate layers worn underneath or an inside-the-waistband
holster. The Center Line Systems EDC Belt will not release or loosen, even while
carrying multiple belt-mounted pouches, along with a pistol and belt knife or
multi-tool. During testing, I used it on the range instead of my larger, more-dedi-
cated battle belt and found it capable of holding all I needed for both pistol and
rifle drills without issue.
MSRP: $75
ASG-1709-CENTER.CX.indd 80 6/8/17 11:54 PM

AN INTERVIEW WITH CLS OWNER
MARK LAINE
American Survival Guide: What is your professional background with $10 an hour: The seams/stitching will come apart after the
prior to running CLS? first hard use.
Mark Laine: I served for 20 years in the U.S. Army (infantry), both
active duty and reserves, and the better part of a decade as an If I used a cheap material, you will get a product consisting of
operations officer in the Central Intelligence Agency. cheap material, which will then fail when you need it most. And if
you dont die during that Oh, crap! moment, you will have to buy
ASG: What inspired you to start a company such as CLS? a second or a third of the same cheap product. Quality material
ML: It wasnt planned or inspired. I was lucky that in both the Army and superior craftsmanship produce that piece of gear your kids are
and the agency, I was around units/elements for which we were using 20 years later; or that piece of gear which, after five years of
able to customize gear and the like. When I left the agency, I moved just getting the snot kicked out of it, finally breaks and you look at
back home to northern Minnesota and immediately got back into it and say, Hell, yeah, that was worth every penny! because you
hiking, camping, bow hunting and fishingpretty much spending know you abused the living crap out of it.
all my time in the outdoors Ive loved since I was a kid.
It didnt take long to realize that the big-box stores did not have
the type of equipment I needed. Or, it was poorly made junk that
wouldnt stand up to real-world punishment. So, I took some of
my downrange gear and started making modifications for hunting.
In addition, I created an item specific to a task (the Gear Roll was
born this way). Then, a friend would see it and ask, Where did
you get that? or Can you make me one of those? Next thing
you know, I am making gearwhich sure as hell beats going back
overseas as a contractor or taking a consulting job in the Beltway!
ASG: In three sentences, how would you sell us on supporting

your business?
ML: As a small business, we take great pride in the quality and
craftsmanship of each piece of gear we make, hand-crafting
products using only American-made/MIL-SPEC/Berry-compliant
materials. I design the gear based on my real-life experiences
me, not some guy sitting in an office who doesnt know the first
thing about hunting, survival or tactical applications. And finally,
customer service: Call, and it is me, the owner, who answers your
question or hand writes the thank-you note on each invoice.
ASG: People are going to ask, Why are your products expensive?
ML: Quality products consist of quality craftsmanship and quality
material. That is not to say you cannot find a great piece of gear for
a low cost. Take a P-38 can opener: I still have the one my father
gave me about 40 years ago, and it has seen plenty of use. But
that original one was made of metal. Todays versions are of some
cheap/flimsy aluminum, and I have broken two of those. [They are]
cheap and easily replaced, and I can buy them in quantities, so I
have at least one or two in each piece of kit. If buying cheap is your
thing, go right ahead; you get what you pay for. Just be prepared to
pay for it again and again and again.
We use the best plastics, webbing, Cordura, etc., and we take our
time to make sure it is solidly constructed. Simply put, this costs The authors Mother Canteen Carrier is well traveled. He has taken it
to the Arctic, the jungle, the desert and many points in between. After
money, which impacts the cost of goods and price of a product. If pocket equipment, it is his next-line-of-emergency equipment, which
I pay a seamstress $10 an hour, you will get sewing commensurate he carries religiously.

EVERYDAY ORGANIZER (EDO)
When Center Line Systems owner Mark Laine was in the military, he created a
pouch to hold all his administrative gear. This pouch was designed to be used
on various operations to covertly transmit messages and hold sensitive nav-
igation equipment. That original pouch looked nothing like the
latest version of the companys Everyday Organizer.
The Everyday Organizer (EDO) features dual deep
pockets on the front and back covers. There is a
security strap with elasticized loops, as well as two
elasticized straps to hold it together. It can either be
used by snapping the security strap directly to the body,
or it can be used with the elasticized loops and easily
slipped on and off. On the interior, the EDO has a clear vinyl
window that can be used as a writing surface with a dry- or
wet-erase marker.
The EDO comes into its own when used on the shooting
range to hold daily atmospheric conditions data, ballistic cards
and pens/markers. On navigation practice exercises, it was used
to hold protractors, flagging tape, pencils, primary compass,
chemical light sticks and small AAA pen lights. Some users will Center Line
carry it on a daily basis to organize checkbooks, shopping lists and Systems Everyday
Organizer makes a great
honey-do lists. The vinyl window helps hold items without shifting companion on the trail or at the
when placed against it. Therefore, a folded map or other documents range when you need to access and
add notes to maps, your shooters
will stay in place if hastily sandwiched inside. data log or other documents.
MSRP: $65
K9-CONTROL SYSTEM
Center Line Systems is known for making gear for the outdoorsman. However,
the outdoorsman is not the only one in need of gear in the field.
Mans best friend often joins those trips to the great outdoors. The K9-Control
System is a body harness that replaces a traditional collar. It is used with work-
ing dogs in the police and military, and there are sizes available for a lapdog
all the way up to the largest breeds. Should you need to control your dog and
keep it closer at hand, there is a strong shoulder strap grab handle that will
not separate or break. Instead of a traditional collar worn around the neck, the
K9-Control System by Center Line Systems is more comfortable and puts less
stress on your pet.
MSRP: $30
WHAT TO EXPECT FROM CLS

Center Line Systems is a relatively new company that draws from years of
experience in the field. Look carefully, and youll find its gear in the hands
of many outdoor professionals, police/military and outdoorsmen. Since
its beginning, CLS has steadily grown to offer additional products. As the
company continues to attract loyal users and build a dedicated fan base, it
will surely offer more innovative products to address other outdoor purposes.
CLSs Mark Laine will continue to think about the needs of his customers
and keep moving in the direction of making some of the best gear around. His
gear, in turn, will never quit in any conditions it might be subjected to. ASG
S O U R C E
Center Line Systems The K-9 Control System is a

(218) 730-7304 flexible and strong harness that
www.Center-Line-Systems.com can help you control your dog
with more confidence and less
stress for both of you.

ASG-1706-LT Wright Handcrafted Knife Co 3/2/17 10:08 AM Page 1
The author frequently uses his Everyday Organizer to keep his precision
rifle data and instruments in order.
ASG-1708-Tormach 4/10/17 11:26 AM Page 1
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TORMACH.COM

BACK TO
THE BASICS
MASTERING JUST A FEW LOST SKILLS
COULD HELP SAVE YOUR LIFE.
BY PETER SUCIU
I
n the year 642, the city of Alexandria was captured by the Muslim army of Amr
ibn al-As, and its Great Librarywhich had been considered one of the largest
and most significant centers of learningwas destroyed. This was not the
first time the library had been sacked or had its books and scrolls burned, but
this event has since symbolized the loss of knowledge and attendant cultural
destruction.
Yet, this event is hardly the only example of a loss of knowledge. The fall of the
Roman Empire in the West, the fall of Constantinople in the East, the Crusades, the
Spanish sacking of the Inca Empire and many other historic episodes mark significant
destruction that resulted in the loss of past knowledge. However, in most cases, the
knowledge was more historical in nature, and life went on.
Today, the knowledge of how to do basic things that were once crucial to daily life
has been slowly disappearing, thanks to modern conveniences. While urban hipsters
and rural hippies, alike, might know how to raise a garden for fresh veggies, few people
today know how to raise enough food to actually survive; and while there are plenty of
people who can upcycle used items to make clothing, furniture and office equipment,
most of us today couldnt build an adequate shelter.
This is really the dangerous lost knowledge, and what you dont know how to do
could truly hurt you.
ASG-1709-SKILLS.CX.indd 84 6/12/17 12:28 AM

Getty Images
ASG-1709-SKILLS.CX.indd 85 6/12/17 12:28 AM

Photo: Peter Suciu
While not as impressive as the Great Library of Alexandria, the Library of Celsus in Ephesus was built in honor of the
Roman senator Tiberius Julius Celsus Polemaeanus and completed in the year 135. It was built to store 12,000 scrolls
BUILD A LIBRARY and serve as a mausoleum for Celsus, who is buried in a crypt beneath the library. It was destroyed by the Goths in
There are many skills that can be easily 263, and much of its knowledge was lost to the ages.
learned. If you know how to read, you can

follow the instructionswhich are more
Photo: Peter Suciu

readily available to the common man than
at any time in history.
However, people increasingly rely too much
on the Internet for advice on basically every-
thing from considering tax credits to medical
insight to the plethora of how-to sites that
give step-by-step directions on virtually any-
thing you could possibly want to build, repair
or do. If it exists, the Internet can show how it
can be made and how it can be xed.
But one thing the Internet doesnt do a
very good of job is helping one prepare for a
world without the Internet.
There might be sites devoted to honing
skills, but the truth is that unless youre
printing out every document online and
maintaining a physical copy of every site you
regularly reference for this help, the Internet
is going to be pretty useless, even in a minor
power outage. Without access to the virtual
cloud, you might as well seek guidance
Books can provide instructions on simple, everyday tasks that have been largely forgotten in our modern world.
from the clouds in the sky, because that will Even if you know how to do plumbing tasks and automotive repair, chances are you cant also knit a blanket or make a
end up being just as eective. quilt. However, there are plenty of books that can help ensure you are covered.
ASG-1709-SKILLS.indd 86 6/8/17 10:26 PM

Today, few
soldiers actually Fortunately, there are plenty of books that can
know how to
ride a horse.
provide the basics for carpentry, plumbing and
One exception is most forms of mechanical repair. A few tools are
the Household
Cavalry of the often all that is needed to maintain a house and
British Army, do basic repairs. Stockpiling these books should
which is tasked
with ceremonial be a top priority, so think of these as your own
duties that Great Librarybecause, in a world without
include guarding
the queen. Many the Internet, books will, once again, be the way
of these soldiers
never knew how
knowledge is preserved and shared.
to ride a horse
before joining the
army but went BE ONE WITH THE ANIMALS
through a robust The bigger problem the world faces with
training program.
Today, they are lost knowledge is that some skills simply
all considered to cant be learned via reading alone. One of
have excellent
horsemanship the most notable is horseback riding, a skill
skills.
that was common among humans for eons
but has become increasingly rare over the
past two centuries.
Even 100 years ago, most soldiers knew how
to ride a horse. By World War II, few soldiers
had ever been on one. Today, many American
Photo: Peter Suciu
soldiers have likely never even seen a horse. Yet,

in a world without access to crude oil and the
facilities to rene gasoline, cars wont be rolling
down the roads for long.
TODAY, THE KNOWLEDGE OF HOW

TO DO BASIC THINGS THAT WERE
ONCE CRUCIAL TO DAILY LIFE HAS
BEEN SLOWLY DISAPPEARING,
THANKS TO MODERN
CONVENIENCES.

GROW In some parts
of the world,
horses are still
YOUR OWN
used as a form
of military
transport,
because they
SPUDS
can travel
where wheeled
vehicles often
cannot. This
2001 photo
shows U.S.
Special Forces
When many people think of potatoes, and combat
Irelands Great Famine of the 19th century controllers on
horseback with
comes to mind, but the truth is that potatoes the Northern
served the Irish people with hardy food for Alliance of
Afghanistan.
centuries. The potato was introduced to (Photo: Master
Sergeant Chris
Western civilization after the Spanish con- Spence, FOB-53/
quered the Inca Empire in the 16th century, U.S. Army, United
States Special
and it spread throughout Europe. Operations
However, the more-pious English at the Command/
Public Domain)
time rejected potatoes, because they grew
undergroundin Satans realmand instead,
passed them o to the Irish. By the 18th century, THE BIGGER PROBLEM THE WORLD
potatoes were widely cultivated in Ireland,
because the moist ground and cool climate FACES WITH LOST KNOWLEDGE IS
were much like the South American highlands THAT SOME SKILLS SIMPLY CANT BE
where the potato was bred.
Today, potatoes are hardy enough to be
LEARNED VIA READING ALONE.
grown in most soil. Seed potatoes should be
planted about 12 inches apart and covered Right: More
than just
with about 3 inches of soil. When the shoots knowing how
reach 10 to 12 inches tall, a hoe or shovel to ride, good
horsemanship
should be used to scoop the soil between rows includes
while burying the stems halfway. knowledge of
how to care
Straw mulch can be used to help conserve for your large
soil moisture, smother weeds and also help friend.
protect the crop from pests (such as the

Colorado potato beetle). And the best part
of harvesting potatoes is that a few from
each years crop can be used over the winter
to start a fresh crop in garbage bags or other
containers. The soil will still need some sun,
but a winter crop can be maintained by placing
it near a window. This will ensure the crop
oers year-round sustenance.
Left: One of the

more important
skills to regain
is gardening,
because even
a modest plot
can provide
significant
benefits.

More importantly, it isnt just learning to ride; it is we now know, Henderson added. But, like with
also the care involved in the health and well-being of riding, that knowledge is in the hands of a small
horses and other useful animals. Apart from todays number of people, not the masses, as it once was.
small farmers, most people have little idea how to Our perception of the horse has changed in the last
care for an animal. The skill of animal husbandry 100 years from being viewed primarily as livestock,
has all but disappeared. to today where most owners see their horses as
People can relearn this skill, and do so on a companion animals. That has made a big impact on
large scale, although strictly for recreation and the type of care horses receive today as compared to
competition, said Dr. Ginger Henderson, chair of the many years ago.
Equestrian Department at Averett University. The good news is that there are programsboth at
ASG-1709-Acme/Camillus
Knowledge 6/8/17
about how to care for horses has 12:46 PM
thePage 1 level, as well as via private classesthat
university
really increased dramatically in terms of what can teach people today how to ride and care for horses.
Breeding sheep are on display at the 2017
AgroFarm All-Russian livestock husbandry
exhibition at the VDNKh exhibition center. (Photo:
Artyom Geodakyan/TASS via Getty Images)
This is no time for games.

My body is tense, my mind is sharp, and my training
is about to pay off. I dont know what lies ahead,
but theres always the chance that danger is lurking.
Im prepared. Im ready for anything.
75-year-old breeder Seydi Turan rides a donkey Its time to move.
as he herds his sheep in Sanliurfa, Turkey. (Photo:
Halil Fidan/Anadolu Agency/Getty Images)
CONQUER YOUR WORLD.

Camillus knives are expertly designed to survive the toughest task.
Titanium bonded. Built to perform. No matter the challenge, consider it conquered.
Getty Images
PROUDLY MADE IN THE USA camillusknives.com/ASGT

Some people are afraid of horses
since they are large animals, but with
the proper training they can learn to
overcome their fear, said Dr. Jenifer
Nadeau, Equine Extension specialist at
the University of Connecticut.
Horses can teach valuable life skills
like confidence, patience, responsibility,
consistency and good communication,
including improved ability in reading
body language, explained Nadeau.
As far as care of horses, at UCONN we
like to teach even beginners how to get
their horses ready to ride and how to
take care of [them] after the ride. This
is called horsemanship and we are big
believers in that.
Books cant teach riding skills, but Nadeau
suggested that, as with other skills, reading
can go a long way in understanding these
former beasts of burden.
When I was a kid, I read every book about
Getty Images
horses I could get my hands on, which led to
the variety and depth of knowledge I have
today, she added. I am saddened that
reading about horse care is declining.
A woman practices with her horse
outdoors. This is really the only way to
become an accomplished equestrian.
Getty Images
S O U R C E S
Dr. David S. Douches

Director of the Potato Breeding
and Genetics Program,
Michigan State University
Dr. Ginger Henderson

Chair of the Equestrian Department,
Averett University
Dr. Jenifer Nadeau

Equine Extension Specialist,
University of Connecticut Peppers are quite easy to grow and can complement other dishes, including wild salads and meat dishes. Ironically, the
name, pepper, was given to these vegetables after Christopher Columbus brought the plant back to Europe, because it
was similar to the unrelated Piper nigrum plant from India that is the source of pepper spice.

GOOD EATS
Thanks to grocery stores and fast-food restaurants, many people are losing
the skills to even cook dinner, let alone the ability to grow enough food to
sustain themselves. Hunting and shing can provide much-needed protein, and
while the hungriest person can learn to butcher an animal, the skills to actually
grow food are a bit more complex.
As noted, there is a trend in micro-gardens, in which urban dwellers plant a
few items to spice up their diet, but that is unlikely to keep anyone fed for long.
Fortunately, growing vegetables isnt that hard, and anyone who can manage
even a small garden can easily upgrade it to something much bigger. One key
Getty Images
is choosing the right plants to grow. Spring onion and silverbeet are hardy and
can be grown in a range of conditions, while kale is a leafy green that grows
quickly and is one of the most nutritious foods.
The downside to kale, lettuce and tomatoes is that all can be attacked by
THANKS TO GROCERY Today, grocery
stores are filled pests and need a fair amount of water. These plants need more care than,
with more
STORES AND FAST- food than our
ancestors could
for instance, peas, cucumbers and potatoes (in fact, potatoes are so easy to
maintain, they can even be grown in buckets and bags). Even on a large scale,
FOOD RESTAURANTS, have imagined.
Without such potatoes are a good crop, because they dont up take a lot of room.
MANY PEOPLE ARE stores, most

people today
Commercial potato farms in Michigan can produce 20 tons40,000
poundsper acre, said Dr. David S. Douches, director of the Potato Breeding
LOSING THE SKILLS TO
would starve,
because they and Genetics Program at Michigan State University. That can feed a lot of
dont know how
EVEN COOK DINNER, to grow their own
foods.
people. [But] you have to be able to store the potatoes well so you can eat
them until the next years harvest. Potatoes also oer good nutritional balance
LET ALONE THE ABILITY but not fat It should be eaten with other foods to have balance in your diet.
TO GROW ENOUGH Balancing out that diet isnt hard, because other easily grown foods include
peppers and carrots, which can also provide a lot of food for little work. Carrots
FOOD TO SUSTAIN grow quickly in the ground, and, despite what cartoons may suggest, rabbits
THEMSELVES.
ASG-1709-Strattec Security 5/23/17 1:25 PM Page 1
and other pests tend to shy away from carrots.

THE
LESSONS OF
THE KILLING
FIELDS OF
CAMBODIA
During the rule of the Khmer Rouge regime in
Cambodia from 1975 to 1979, some 2.5 million
people died out of a population of roughly
8 million. While many of these people were
killed by the government, many others died
Getty Images
as a result of starvation after the government
attempted to turn Cambodia into a classless
society by depopulating cities and forcing
the urban populationthe so-called New
Peopleinto agricultural communes.
Forced to become farmers in labor camps,
these former urban dwellers had no idea
how to grow enough rice to survivea fact
made worse by the reality that the average
tons of rice produced before the regime were
less per hectare than what was expected of
these new farmers. While the carrot plant probably originated in Persia and was cultivated for its leaves and seeds,
today, the most commonly eaten part of the carrot (Daucus carota) is the taproot. The domestic
However, even if the former city dwellers had carrot, which has been selectively bred for its greatly enlarged, more palatable taproot, is easy to
known how to farm, they likely would still have raise. In its modern form, it isnt as desired by rabbits and other pests, either.
died, because many were overworked and had
no access to medical care. ONE THING THE INTERNET DOESNT
The greatest lasting lesson from the killing
fields might be to not forget such histories DO A VERY GOOD OF JOB IS HELPING
and to know how to fight such unwarranted ONE PREPARE FOR A WORLD WITHOUT
acts of repression.
THE INTERNET.
However, carrots are a biennial plant, which means that the life cycle of the plant takes two
years to complete. In the rst year of the life cycle, the embryo within a seed develops into a
mature plant. While maturing, the plant grows foliage and stores sugars in an enlarged root.
During the second owering year, you should allow the seed heads to fully ripen on the plant.
When the ower heads begin to brown and become dry, you carefully cut the heads and store
them until the drying is complete. These are then planted for the carrots that can be eaten.
To add some protein to this otherwise vegetarian diet, nothing beats the mushroom, which
is very easy to grow, even indoorsin the darkduring winter months. The key, of course, is
making sure that the mushrooms arent poisonous. One easy way to inspect mushrooms is to
look for those with white gills, a skirt or ring on the stem; those indicators can quickly tell you
these mushrooms should be avoided, because they are poisonous. In addition, mushrooms with
red on the caps or stems should be avoided.
However, because mushrooms are porous, they can absorb pesticides and fungicides. A way to
avoid these is to utilize a growing tray about 8 inches deep that will hold compost, peat moss
and the mushroom spores. The ideal temperature should be between 65 and 70 degrees (F).
After a few weeks of growing, the mushrooms will be ready to be harvested to add avor to the
rest of your home-grown foods. ASG

CAN YOU SURVIVE:
NO FOOD? NO WATER? NO ELECTRICITY?
Do You Have the Knowledge to Survive?
SIX
PILLARS OF
SURVIVAL:
FOod
water
shelter
security
cOmmUnIcatIOnS
heaLth
L
Lth
LEARN ONLINE
EMPOWERING SURVIVAL TECHNOLOGIES FROM WORLD-CLASS SURVIVAL EXPERTS.
CAPTIONS (clockwise from top left) Retired Green Beret Craig Connor on right and
Retired Green Beret Master Sergeant Brian Morris on left carry a human litter down a
mountainside in NC Brian Morris is a retired Special Forces Master Sergeant and the
Lead Instructor and Producer of American Survival Guide University Retired Green
Beret Craig Connor on the gun. Retired Green Beret Command Sergeant Major Brian
Berry instructing Retired Green Beret Captain Mykel Hawke cuts his way out of the
bush in the Florida Everglades Retired Sergeant Major EJ Skull-Crusher Snyder
carves a spear out of a stick
https://asgu.asgmag.com
ASG_1709_93.indd 93 6/5/17 4:27 AM

THWARTING THE END OF MANKIND
WITH MANS BEST FRIEND
TEXT AND PHOTOS BY RYAN LEE PRICE
ADDITIONAL PHOTOGRAPHY BY MELANIE CATALANO
Getty Images
ASG-1709-DOG.indd 94 6/5/17 11:52 PM

SURVIVAL
K9
WITH YOUR
Y
our once-familiar neighborhood is bathed in
a morning light that can barely break through
the smoke and dust in the air. The streets in
all directions are littered with the rubble of
buildings, burning cars, destroyed barricades and
the detritus of a conflict lost.
The dog sitting attentively at your feet, ears alert, eyes always
scanning, suddenly springs upright and bolts to attention,
pointing in the direction of an abandoned house with dark
windows and a kicked-in door. His nose plies the air, and his ears
twitch as if hes hearing sounds that are well out of your range.
He turns to you with eyes filled with concern: Its time to leave.
Its not safe here.
ASG-1709-DOG.CX2.indd 95 6/12/17 12:38 AM

NO DOG LEFT BEHIND
However, having a dog is a big
game-changer if you are forced to
bug out after a major catastrophe or
disaster, and having a dog along has a
couple of downsides.
The bad news first: They eat food and
drink water. Hungry dogs, even well-
trained hungry dogs, will prioritize food
over you and your well-being. They can be
nervous and become unpredictable. So, to
keep them happy and loyal, theyll need
food. And guess who has to carry it?
Dogs create waste, make lots of noise
and take up space in your shelter, bug-out
vehicle and on the road. On top of this,
if the situation deteriorates further, your
dog will be considered food for lots of
people, putting him in dangerand,
subsequently, you, if you feel the need
to protect him. In addition, there are
certain terrains (steep climbs, large piles
of rubble, very sharp debris) a dog is not
suited to tackle.
This being said, dogs are as much a
part of some families as their children,
and under no circumstances could they
Getty Images
consider a scenario in which their dogs
would be left behind, abandoned or sac-
rificed for the good of the group. Thats
fine; no dogs left behind.
Getty Images
DOGS ARE AS MUCH A PART OF SOME

FAMILIES AS THEIR CHILDREN, AND UNDER NO
CIRCUMSTANCES COULD THEY CONSIDER A
SCENARIO IN WHICH THEIR DOGS WOULD BE
LEFT BEHIND, ABANDONED OR SACRIFICED FOR
THE GOOD OF THE GROUP.
ASG-1709-DOG.CX.indd 96 6/9/17 12:00 AM

A DOGS PURPOSE
A dogs daily life harkens back to his wolf instincts. He digs, he buries food/bones, he
hides his waste and he eats solitarily. He is acutely aware of his surroundings and has
TOP
a pack mentality. He sleeps in a den (if he has others with him), and his aptitude for
defense is without equal in other domestic animals. A dog can be a very useful item to
have in a survivalists toolbox.
Nevertheless, to be honest, a typical untrained house dog is good for two things:
personal defense and companionship. A dog can be trained to do most anything, how- SKILLS YOUR
SURVIVAL DOG
ever: He can carry a canine backpack for some of his own gear or pull a sled, wagon or
primitive travois. But a dog can sense your fear and get antsy and nervous if you havent
MUST HAVE
properly trained and prepared him for a stressful situation. A nervous dog might bite, run
off or bark incessantly. These are all things you want to avoid.
What your dog needs to know to be prepared for

an emergency situation:
Recall: Your dog should have a solid recall for any situation.
Does he come to you when there are other dogs and people
around? Does he come to you when there is a danger you see
and you need to get him back to you on a moments notice?
Stay: If you decide to check something out, will your

dog stay in place? Will your dog stay outside a building
as you walk inside to investigate? Will he still be waiting
for you in the same spotunmovedno matter the time
it takes to return?
Heel: Will your dog follow you without question? Through a

crowd of people? Through a park full of dogs with balls being
thrown? A dog needs to stay by your side without much effort
when you have a lot going on.
Alert: If someone knocks on your door, will he bark? Will

your dog alert you to danger in the dark of night while you are
trying to sleep? It is important that while you are not able,
your dog can still be alert.
Quiet: Will your dog be quiet on command? Maybe you do

not want to alert everyone in the area that you are there.
Getty Images
K9 DEFENDER
Every dog can bark, and every dog will defend his space against anything he deems
hostile. If you are part of his pack (or vice versa), having a dog nearby can, and will,
benefit you when it comes to detecting intruders, providing a stout level of protection
for you and your group. Your dog will detect a visitor with his keen hearing and powerful
nose long before you will.
Pay attention to your dog when your instincts tell you to. His demeanor, physical
appearance and actions will change when he perceives a threat. He will stiffen up, stand
taller and turn sideways against the threat. The hair on the ridge down his back will
stand up. His ears will drop back, and his head will skulk low into his shoulders.
If your dog is trained to attack on command, he must also be trained to turn off
Getty Images
completely on command. If you want a barking alert based on what the dog smells or
hears in the distance, the dog must be trained to also stop barking and remain quiet
upon direct command. It is counterintuitive in many circumstances to have continuous
noise giving away your exact location for predators to zero in on.
ASG-1709-DOG.CX.indd 97 6/9/17 12:00 AM

A WARM BODY AND FRIEND
In the basest of terms, your dog can
be a warm blanket. A dogs normal
body temperature is a couple of degrees
higher than a humans and, in addition
to his fur coat, he makes for a warm
companion on a cold night. Because
dogs instinctively sleep in dens, where
they take advantage of body heat to
stay warm on cold nights, you can take
advantage of that same thing.
Dogs have a wonderful sense of direc-
tion. They use a combination of senses
and perceptions to find their way and
remember where they came from. They
utilize the vestibular system in their inner
ear to know speed and turns, and they
unconsciously count how many steps
Getty Images
theyve taken from one place to another.
Dogs can predict the weather (they
can sense a change in barometric
pressure). They are astute judges of
character. And they can be used to keep
children calm and distracted.
A DOG CAN BE
TRAINED TO DO
MOST ANYTHING
... HE CAN CARRY
A CANINE
BACKPACK FOR
SOME OF HIS OWN
GEAR OR PULL
A SLED, WAGON
OR PRIMITIVE
TRAVOIS.
CARING FOR YOUR

COMPANION
The beautiful thing about a dog is
that he is ready to do anything at any-
time. However, one of the bad things
about a dog is that he will continue to
do whatever hes occupied with until
he literally collapses.
If you insist on taking your dog with
you in a bug-out scenario, youll have to
take precautions to make sure he stays
a healthy, alert and functional member
Photo by Melanie Catalano
of the team.
Food: Dogs are scavengers that can, and
will, eat most anything they find thats
edible. That buried leftover steak is pretty
tasty to a dog two weeks later. Given this,
dogs can eat what you eat (and vice versa).
ASG-1709-DOG.CX.indd 98 6/9/17 12:00 AM

THE SURVIVORS DOG:
Getty Images
PROS AND CONS
Getty Images
Labrador Retriever Rottweiler
Hands down, the Lab is the worlds most popular dog. Its webbed Originating in Rottweil, Germany, the Rott is a very old line (from
feet make it an excellent swimmer. In fact, its original job was to the Roman era). They are a very strong and intelligent breed.
retrieve fishing nets in England in the early 19th century. Pros: They are the best dogs for personal protection, giv-
Pros: Excellent hunting dogs, they have high endurance and are en their reputation and intimidating appearance. They
strong swimmers. They are very trainable, intelligent and possess are very intelligent and easily trainable. They have a very
excellent hearing and sense of smell. strong body and can carry/pull a great deal of weight.
Cons: Labs can overheat easily in extreme heat and can be loud Rotts have excellent senses of hearing and smell.
and clumsy at times. Their lovable nature makes them question- Cons: They do not have a great endurance and can overheat
able protection dogs. They lose focus easily when around prey easily. Rotts are not good hunters/retrievers, and their breed
in the field. isnt respected for being a safe dog around strangers/public.
Getty Images
Getty Images
German Shepherd Jack Russell Terrier

Originating in Germany, the shepherd line of dogs is only 120 years The Jack Russell was developed for its ability to hunt foxes. The breed
old and was developed to efficiently herd sheep in the fields. It is the hasnt changed much for the last 250 years. These dogs possess a high
foremost police and military dog and is extremely popular among those level of energy and require a great deal of exercise. They are tenacious
wanting a dog for protection, personal assistance or search-and-rescue. and persistent, making them wonderful hunting/tracking dogs.
Pros: German Shepherds exhibit high endurance, speed, agility Pros: One of the best characteristics of Jack Russells is their
and strength. They have a very strong work ethic and pose quite endurance level. They have exceptional hearing and smell, and
a formidable presence when used as protection. They possess the their small size means they eat less and take up less space.
best hearing and sense of smell and are very intelligent. Cons: They arent very intimidating, and theyre not very
Cons: Thanks to their popularity and breeding, they can be quietdue to a high amount of barking. They are not cold-
plagued with hip dysplasia and other health problems. weather dogs, and their drive makes them difficult to contain.
ASG-1709-DOG.CX2.indd 99 6/12/17 12:39 AM

Even so, in order for a dog to remain
heathy, he should stay on a steady diet of
the same foodspecifically, dog food.
If you are sheltering in place (or realize
that this will be the most likely outcome),
keep as much dog food on hand as you
have food for yourself. The best way to
store dry, kibble-variety dog food is right in
the original packaging (unless you have a
rodent problem; in which case, use food-
grade containers). The bag keeps the food
dry and in the dark and even allows it to
breathe slightly. This is important, because
even dry pet food contains moisture in the
form of fats and oils. In the bag, it can last
up to two years.
Even better at storage is canned wet
dog food. It can remain untouched for
around five years before it begins to lose
its nutritional value. Find out how much
your dog eats and calculate how much
youll need. If he eats two cans a day, and
you are planning your survival cache for
three weeks, youll need 42 cans, which
dont take up that much space. (The best
thing about having dog food on hand is
that if the times get especially rough, you
can eat it, too.)
Water: Your dog drinks from the toilet
and rainwater out of muddy puddles
in the yard. Therefore, he must have an
iron-clad stomach and be impervious to
bacteria and parasites ... not necessarily.
Outdoor water sourcessuch as rivers,
lakes and pondscarry microscopic
organisms that negatively affect your dog,
just as they do you. These protozoa, such
as giardia and cryptosporidium,
affect the gastrointestinal systems of
Getty Images
dogs if they are ingested. Exposure to
these protozoa can cause severe diarrhea
and intestinal bleeding. Healthy dogs can
often carry a protozoan without showing
symptoms. However, if a dog has an
underlying illness, is very old or very
PAY ATTENTION TO YOUR DOG WHEN
young, or has an impaired immune sys- YOUR INSTINCTS TELL YOU TO. HIS
tem, a protozoan can be dangerous DEMEANOR, PHYSICAL APPEARANCE
to his health.
Although the danger is not super high AND ACTIONS WILL CHANGE WHEN
for dogs when drinking from natural HE PERCEIVES A THREAT.
sources, having a clean supply of water
is necessary to keep them healthy. Make resources, it is your job to find out what it is. To keep all your bases covered, keep in your
sure to always have a bowl of water bug-out cache medical supplies specifically for dogs, including grooming supplies, flea
handy so drinking from other sources and tick control protection, anti-worm protection, nail and teeth kits, and specialized
is not needed. medicines (Zymox, for example, if your dog is prone to ear infections).
Health: Because he cant talk to tell you Protection: Dogs get cold. They get hot. Their feet get blisters. And if you have an
whats wrong, to keep your dog healthy, especially stubborn dog, you wont notice anything is wrong until you see bloody
pay special attention to his actions. If footprints or uncontrollable chills.
your dog is unusually lethargic, looks tired Depending on your local environment and range of weather, have on hand a blanket or
or if something just isnt right, odds are vest to help your dog stay warm, especially if he is single coated (such as terriers, Boxers,
good he has an illness. Without medical bulldogs, Doberman Pinschers and other short-haired dogs). Terrain can be rough on a
ASG-1709-DOG.indd 100 6/5/17 11:54 PM

DOGS HAVE A
WONDERFUL
SENSE OF
DIRECTION. THE
THEY USE A
COMBINATION
WORLDS GREATEST
OF SENSES AND
PERCEPTIONS
SURVIVAL DOG
TO FIND THEIR The Great St. Bernard Pass connects Martigny in Switzerland with Aosta in Italy via the third highest
road in Switzerland. It passes along the ridge between Mont Blanc and Monte Rosa, the two highest
WAY AND summits of the Alps. Evidence of people using this road have dated back to the Bronze Age, and portions
REMEMBER of it were part of the original Roman road system.
WHERE THEY Along the highest point in the road and perpetually covered in snow, the Great St. Bernard Hospice
was founded in 1049 by Saint Bernard of Menthon, an archdeacon in Aosta whose responsibility it
CAME FROM. was to care for travelers who frequently used the treacherous mountain pass. Tired of seeing weary
travelers arriving in Aosta after having been terrorized by highway robbers, he decided to build a hostel
at the summitsome 8,000 feet above sea levelto offer protection and a place of respite against the
dogs feet, so have boots ready if you
dangers of the road.
encounter glass, hot pavement, debris
Six hundred years later, monks at the hostel began to breed mastiff-style Asiatic dogs with other large
or jagged ground. A dogs eyes can get
breeds found in Italy as companions and guard dogs for the hostel. Just before 1700, they started naming
affected by the same dust, blowing sand
their breeds St. Bernards, and by 1750, they routinely were sent along with servants called marroniers, who
and smoke that yours do, so a pair of
helped guide the travelers safely down the mountain.
dog goggles will remedy that.
The broad chests of the St. Bernards were used to clear a path in the snow. However, it was soon discov-
Treats and Toys: Your dog might not
ered that they possessed an incredible sense of smell and that they could easily discover people buried
understand what is happening, so to
in snow and seek out injured or lost travelers. For the next 150 years, they would be sent out in packs of
keep him in a semblance of normalcy, try
two or three in search of lost travelers or avalanche victims. When a traveler was scented, one St. Bernard
not to change his routine and patterns
would dig down through the snow, locate the person and then sit on him to provide warmth. The others
too greatly. If your dog is used to a
returned to the hostel to alert the monks.
regular treat before bed or a ball in the
The most famous St. Bernard of them all was Barry, who lived at the hostel from 1800 to 1814 and is
morning, make sure those are with you.
credited with saving more than 40 people in his lifetime. The most famous rescue occurred when a young
A happy dog is a healthy dog.
boy was injured in an avalanche and was unable to move. When Barry found him, he licked the boys face
until he awoke and lay with him to warm him up. Incredibly, this amazing dog carried the boy on his back
TAIL END
to the hostel. Since then, one dog at the hostel has always been named Barry in his honor. (By the way
Whether or not to keep a dog during
those little casks of rum on St. Bernards collars? Just myth.)
uncertain times is a dilemma in itself. A
dog can help you sense intruders before
they have an opportunity to harm you
or your family. Because people will be
the greatest of threats, it makes sense
to have a dog for protection. Dogs might
also help you with hunting and ultimately
be the most essential of tools in your
arsenal for putting meat on the table ... if
youve already trained them to do so.
On the other hand, a dog might end
up competing for the same resources of
food and water for survival if you have
not trained him to hunt. In addition, your
dog might bring unwanted diseases from
fleas and ticks picked up in the wild.
If your dog is part of your permanent
pack and will go to the ends of the
earth with you, make sure you under-
stand what is at stake, what youll
Getty Images
need to keep him happy and safe, and

how you plan to protect your dog from
dangeras he tries to figure out how to
protect you. ASG
ASG-1709-DOG.indd 101 6/5/17 11:54 PM

-
SELF-HELP
ESSENTIALS
EMERGENCY ITEMS TO HELP KEEP YOU
ALIVE, WHETHER YOU ARE HUNKERING
DOWN OR HITTING THE ROAD
BY MICHAEL DANGONA
T
o bug out or not to bug out ... that is stocking basic supplies and other items at home
the question. The decision to leave including extra food, water and first aidwhile keeping
your home and venture out into the a packed bug-out bag or supply kit always accessible
unknown is a decision you sometimes nearby or in your intended bug-out vehicle.
dont have the luxury to make. A The basics are always your priority because, once an
man-made or natural disaster can force you out of emergency hits, supply lines stop, and staples become
your home if a serious threat comes knocking on your very scarce. Dont be left hungry, cold or thirsty for
door. Conversely, at other times, your home is your fresh water; stock up today for a more comfortable and
stronghold to protect yourself and your loved ones stress-free time when things go bad.
from dangers lurking outside. The other great unknown is how long your preparations
The solution to this complex question is simply to be will need to last, so weve divided this gear guide into
equally prepared for both contingencies. This means seven- and 21-day supplies for bugging in and bugging out.
ASG-1709-GEAR.indd 102 6/8/17 9:59 PM

ASG-1709-GEAR.indd 103 6/8/17 9:59 PM

-
BUGGING OUT: UP TO SEVEN DAYS

Survive Outdoors Longer
Urban Survivor Kit
A natural or man-made emergency can have you (4) 400-calorie rations and (10)
evacuating your home with no time to spare. Be 4.4-ounce water packs
ready with the Urban Survivor Kit. This self- Signal mirror and 100 dB whistle
contained goody bag has all the items you Fire Lite striker and Tinder Quik
need to survive for several days while on your Survival blanket and rain poncho
own. From shelter to food, water and rst aid, Medical kit
this kit has you covered when times get rough. Many more survival items
High-quality and thoroughly tested products all
MSRP
t within the included easy-to-locate, bright-
$80
orange backpack. Dont take survival lightly; be
prepared and live another day! URL
www.SurviveOutdoorsLonger.com
Survive Outdoors Longer

Survival Medic Kit
Why limit yourself to just rst aid? This amazing Compact and lightweight
medic kit contains all the needed items to patch Fire Lite striker and Tinder Quik
you up in case of an unforeseen accident and also Adhesive bandages, antibiotic
contains other survival items. It is compact enough ointment and other basics
to t inside a jacket pocket, so you can rest assured SOL survival instruction information
you will always have rst aid nearby when needed.
MSRP
Useful survival items include a re-starter, whistle,
$15
tinder and compass to nd your way back if lost.
Additionally, the included containment pouch is URL
waterproof and durable enough to withstand the www.SurviveOutdoorsLonger.com
rigors of Mother Nature. Equip every member of
the family with this handy kit.
Sawyer Pocket First Aid Kit

This compact, yet comprehensive, first aid kit Perfect for purse, briefcase or
will go where you go with ease. Containing backpack
nearly everything you need to treat minor inju- Water-resistant vinyl pouch
ries while on a short bug-out, the Pocket First Treats minor injuries on the go
Aid Kit features items useful to treat minor Made in the U.S.A.
cuts and scrapes, blisters, insect bites and
MSRP
stings. Anti-infection ointments are included
$7.99
to keep bacteria at bay, while a convenient
pair of tweezers aids in removing wood, glass URL
or metal slivers. Dont leave home without this www.Sawyer.com
valuable survival asset.
ASG-1709-GEAR.CX.indd 104 6/12/17 12:43 AM

LifeStraw Go Two-Stage
Filter Bottle
After a man-made or natural urban emergency, your Primary filter treats up to 264
municipal water source might be unsafe to drink gallons
from. Thankfully, you have the Lifestraw Go to get Second-stage charcoal capsule
you through. Incorporating the revolutionary process is effective for up to 26 gallons
found in the original Lifestraw, this unit is an all-in- BPA free
one drinking system. Just fill your bottle with nearly Uses replaceable activated
any source of water and drink. The built-in filter carbon capsules
removes 99.9999 percent of waterborne bacteria Meets U.S. EPA standards
and 99.9 percent of dangerous protozoans, includ- Available in five colors
ing giardia and cryptosporidium. Portable, easy to
MSRP
use and a must-have when fresh drinking water is
$44.95
unavailable, the Lifestraw Go will keep you hydrated
and illness free. URL
www.LifeStraw.com
Wazoo Companion Key Chain

A mini survival kit in your pocket! Clearly, your keys Looks like an ordinary keychain
go with you wherever you go, including when you Personalized etched nameplate
need to bug out. However, this keychain is equipped option
with some very special features: Included within Inconspicuous to others
the paracord-wrapped keychain are a resteel and
MSRP
striking plate, shing line, sh hook and needle.
$25
Choose from dozens of solid or patterned paracord
colors. Personalized etching is available on the URL
name plate. Multi-purpose items are the name www.WazooSurvivalGear.com
of the game during survival scenarios, and this
keychain delivers.
Echo-Sigma Bug-Out Bag

Sometimes, you cant get home before a disas- Keep in your vehicle or at the office
ter strikes, so having the Echo-Sigma Bug-Out Top-quality gear and supplies
Bag is the next best thing. Contained within the Customizable to your personal needs
highly durable backpack is everything you need Durable backpack construction
to survive for a full week or longer. All survival All items arranged, organized and
areas are complete within this fully assembled stowed
and ready-to-go kit. Covering shelter, food Packaging removed from all items
and water, re-making and rst-aid, nothing is
MSRP
omitted to help you endure what man or nature
$599.99
can throw at you. Customizable options are
available to upgrade, replace or remove items URL
to t your particular needs. www.Echo-Sigma.com
ASG-1709-GEAR.CX2.indd 105 6/13/17 4:09 AM

BUGGING OUT: UP TO 21 DAYS
Coghlans Trekking Umbrella

More versatile than most people realize, this trekking Integrated LED lights
umbrella oers features suitable for hiking outdoors Full fiberglass frame
or exploring urban environments. Use its integrated Lightweight and rugged
LED handle light to help guide you when visibility is Vented canopy
low. Then enjoy its full, 42-inch canopy to protect
MSRP
you from a downpour. You can stay dry and prevent
$17.99
hypothermia as you traverse wet conditions. Or,
when the sun is at its brightest, protect your skin URL
from sunburn and help reduce your chances of get- www.Coghlans.com
ting heatstroke. A high-density, ultra-comfortable
handle provides a strong and steady grip.
Copper Spur HV UL1 mtnGLO Tent

Constantly relocating while bugging out might be 20-square-foot floor plus
necessary, so be prepared with this amazing, ultralight 9-square-foot vestibule
tent. Constructed of highly durable ripstop nylon and Packed weight: 2 pounds, 9
breathable polyester mesh, this home-away-from- ounces
home sets up quickly, with plenty of room to avoid that Fly is included
claustrophobic feeling some tents evoke. Additionally, DAC featherlite pole system
your activities dont have to stop once the sun goes
MSRP
down as a result of the added bonus of LED lights
$429.95
positioned on the ceiling. Integrated within the tent
seams, these lights operate on three AAA batteries URL
(not included) and are built to withstand the rigors of www.BigAgnes.com
constantly setting up and taking down.
Mt. Shasta Extended

Stargazer Pioneer
Keep your tent and your vehicle close by with Sleeps two
this incredible top-mounted outdoor shelter. Adjustable ladder included
Equipped with both a sleeping area and spacious 2.5-inch-thick, high-density foam
vestibule, this tent has plenty of room for you, a mattress
second person and plenty of gear while you bug Removable PVC floor
out from your permanent residence. A comfy 36-inch covered overhang
mattress allows for a great nights sleep, and its
MSRP
waterproof, breathable mesh keeps you cool, dry
$1,895
and bug free. It is compatible with multiple rack
systems. Available colors: tan and earth green. URL
www.CascadiaTents.com

Kaitos KA 600 Voyager
Solar Powered Radio
When out in the field after an emergency, Multiple power options
you need information, and this multi-function Connected to the Emergency Alert
radio can give it to you. Whether using its hand System
crank, solar panel or battery pack, this unit will Adjustable solar panel
always be ready to turn on and broadcast the Heavy-duty casing
latest news, weather and emergency alerts Includes user manual
from just about anywhere. Not content with
MSRP
just being a radio, this unit also functions
$99.95
as a flashlight, reading light and convenient
charger for your cell phone or other small elec- URL
tronic devices. This radio is a multifunctional www.KaitoUSA.com
piece of equipment essential for extended
time away from home.
Wazoo Cache Belt

Long-term outdoor survival can cause Three gear options
desperate people to steal from others. Pairs with almost any attire
Keep your valuable gear hidden from Top-quality survival gear
others with this amazing belt. Over two Inconspicuous design
dozen survival items tucked within this belt Four sizes to t waists from 26 to 56 inches
will help make your outdoor life a bit easier
MSRP
until normality returns. From fire-starters
Starts at $25
to cordage, tinder to fishing gear, this belt
holds it allin place and out of sight. It is URL
perfect for dress pants or your favorite torn www.WazooSurvivalGear.com
jeans and goes with just about anything.
Three equipment packages are available.
BUGGING IN: UP TO 7 DAYS

Aquapodkit Plus One
Tub Liner Kit
An emergency can happen almost instantly, Easy to use
preventing you from reaching the store for Keeps water fresh for up to eight weeks
life-sustaining, fresh drinking water. Now, Two 65-gallon liners included
that worry can be put behind you. This Fits almost any tub
simple-to-operate unit offers two 65-gallon PVC and BPA free
liners that can be filled and stored in your Liner made in the U.S.A.
own bathtub. This is enough water to meet
MSRP
the needs of a family of four for up to 14 days.
$29.95
The lock and load pump system keeps the
water vessel sealed yet easy to retrieve when URL
needed. This liner kit is a must-have for any www.AquaPodKit.com
urban emergency.
ASG-1709-GEAR.indd 107 6/8/17 9:59 PM

-
UST FlashBlade Recharge Knife 1.0

A knife always comes in handy, no matter Push-button light switch
where you are, including your own home. When Included charging cord
power is down and you need to secure your Tanto-style blade shape
house and belongings, the FlashBlade can help. Ergonomic handle design
Its 3-inch blade can cut cordage, heavy tape or Two-year warranty
any number of obstacles you might face. The
MSRP
bright LED lights two-hour run time will illu-
$26.99
minate your path or work area and is charged
via a USB port. A carabiner clip and integrated URL
glass breaker are included. www.USTBrands.com
BUGGING IN: UP TO 21 DAYS

Nitro-Pak Family Water Storage
Package #2
Stop worrying about having enough fresh water Barrel size: 35x22.5 inches
during an emergency. The Family Water Storage One full barrel weighs approximately
Package #2 provides fresh drinking water for 463 pounds
your entire family during any bug-in emergency. Five-year shelf life
The process is simple: Just add tap water and Easy-to-operate pump included
an included stabilizer and seal the cap. Your Barrels are FDA approved
water will remain fresh for up to ve full years!
MSRP
This amazing kit includes four 55-gallon barrels,
$665
a siphon pump, stabilizer tablets, bung wrench
and protective seal caps. URL
www.Nitro-Pak.com
UST 30 Day Duro Lantern

Stranded indoors for weeks with no power? The Lumen output: 700 (high); 140 (medium);
amazing 30 Day Duro Lantern can run contin- 30 (low)
High, medium, low and SOS modes
uously on low power for up to 30 days; in SOS
Water resistant
mode for 15 days; and on high power for 22 hours
Integrated hanging hook
straight. It oers clean, bright lightenough to
Requires 3 D batteries (not included)
illuminate a standard-sized room. Its durable
construction can hold up to accidental impacts, MSRP
while its unbreakable LED lights never need $49.99
replacement or servicing. This is the ideal lantern
URL
for nearly any man-made or natural disaster and
www. USTBrands.com
is a must-have addition to your emergency kit.

Two Titles, One
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ASG_1709_109.indd 109 6/5/17 4:35 AM

ASG-1709-KLECKER.indd 110 6/6/17 12:06 AM

HANDY
HATCHET
KLECKER KNIVES OFFERS
A TAKE-ANYWHERE AXE
HEAD WITH MULTI-TOOL
CAPABILITIES.
STORY AND PHOTOS BY STEVEN PAUL BARLOW

THE KLAX, The KLAX
includes other
tools, such as
ITSELF, WEIGHS hex wrenches,
knife blade, belt
LESS THAN A cutter/gut hook,
hammer head,
POUND AND -inch hex bit

driver socket
TAKES UP LITTLE
and ruler.
ROOM IN A PACK.
I
n most backwoods situations, I
prefer a hatchet or tomahawk over
a large knife for a chopping tool.
The shape and weight of the head,
together with the leverage from a
longer handle, simply make them more Bottom:
efficient for the task. Although it is
not as heavy
Klecker Knives produces a handy item called as some other
hatchets, the
the KLAX Lumberjack Head, which is essen-
KLAX proved to
tially a hatchet head with some other multi- be quite capable
at chopping.
tool functions built into it. When I first saw it, While the center
I thought it had some strong possibilities as a of this log was
rotted, the
useful backwoods tool. outside was still
Nevertheless, I wasnt going to add it to my quite hard and
was a good test
daypack or go-bag unless I was sure of it. of the tool.

SPECIFICATIONS
MODEL: KLAX LUMBERJACK HEAD (INCH)
LENGTH: 6.5 INCHES
HEIGHT: 3.7 INCHES
BLADE LENGTH: 1.7 INCHES
BLADE MATERIAL: SUS420 STAINLESS STEEL
AXE CUTTING EDGE: 3.75 INCHES
KNIFE CUTTING EDGE: 1.75 INCHES
WIDTH AT BACK: .5 INCH
WEIGHT: 14.4 OUNCES
OTHER FEATURES: KNIFE BLADE, HAMMER HEAD, CUTTING/GUT HOOK/BOTTLE OPENER,

(4) HEX WRENCHES (INCH MEASUREMENTS), -INCH HEX BIT
DRIVER SOCKET, LANYARD HOLE, CARABINER, RULER (INCH
MEASUREMENTS), BALLISTIC NYLON SHEATH
MSRP: $180; $30 EXTRA FOR OPTIONAL HARDWOOD 15-INCH AXE HANDLE
WWW.KLECKERKNIVES.COM
Right: The KLAX HEAVYWEIGHT DILEMMA

Lumberjack tool
comes in a sturdy Having an axe in camp not only keeps
nylon sheath. The me supplied with firewood, it can also be
optional hardwood
handle is custom valuable in removing downed branches
made for it.
across the only road out. With a hatchet,
I can quarter game and improvise other
things I needsuch as a travois for dragging
out heavy loads, supports for a kettle in my
camp kitchen and stakes for an improvised
shelter with my poncho or tarp. A hatchet
is quicker at all these tasks than my knife,
which Id prefer to keep sharp for other,
finer cutting tasks.
The problem is that more often these
days, Ive returned to the philosophy of my THE KLAX SOLUTION
younger days: When youre far from the The advantage of the KLAX Lumberjack Head is that it can be used with or without a handle.
beaten path, less is more. Less gear dragged For around a base camp, Klecker Knives offers an optional ready-made hardwood handle for the
along translates to being able to cover more KLAX thats about 15 inches long. When its attached, the KLAX operates like any other hatchet
miles with less effort. And less effort means or lightweight axe.
an overall more pleasurable experience. I If I need something more portable, I can simply pack the KLAX without a handle and either
dont need the weight of gear I dont need use it alone or make my own handle for it wherever I am. The KLAX Lumberjack Head is the
or wont use. only tool you need to make its own handle. The KLAX, itself, weighs less than a pound and
So, when Im on foot and traveling light, room takes up little room in a pack.
in my daypack is at a premium. I often leave
a hatchet or tomahawk behind. Yes, there FEATURES
are hatchets with extremely short handles The KLAX is made of trouble-free stainless steel and has cutouts that not only lighten its
that are more portable, but I find those short weight, but also form other tools. There are several hex wrenches, a -inch hex bit driver
handles dont offer sufficient leverage to socket, hammer, lanyard hole, carabiner, ruler and a knife blade. Theres also a tool that serves
make them efficient choppers. as a strap cutter, gut hook and bottle opener, all in one.
ASG-1709-KLECKER.CX.indd 113 6/9/17 12:07 AM

The hardwood
handle is not
included with the
KLAX, but its a good
option, especially
for times when
you dont want to
take the time to
improvise your own
handle.
The wrenches on
THE KLAX the KLAX wont fit

some hard-to-reach
LUMBERJACK
areas, but with the
handle attached, the
tool does provide
HEAD IS THE good leverage for
loosening stubborn
ONLY TOOL nuts and bolts.
YOU NEED TO
MAKE ITS OWN
HANDLE.
The KLAX head fits into a split on one
end of a handleeither a factory handle or
one you improvise. A foldout clamp screws
tightly into notches on either side of a
handle to secure it.
PUTTING IT TO WORK The ends of the

tools clamp fold
I love a new gadget, but Im usually a bit flat when not in
skeptical until I see for myself that it works. use but extend
(as shown) when
I attached the factory handle first, which youre ready
to attach the
took less than a minute. I tried one of the hex tool to either a
wrench cutouts on the nuts holding a bicycle ready-made or
improvised handle.
wheel. With the handle attached to the tool,
there was plenty of leverage. However, the
shape of the tool will prevent you from using
it on nuts and bolts in tight places.
Next, I tried chopping into an old log.
I found the handle well shaped and, at
15 inches long, it provided good leverage
for chopping strokes. The KLAX bit into
the wood very well. I did have to turn
the thumbwheel to tighten the clamp
slightly after every few strokes, but that
was a minor inconvenience.

KI-1705-Jantz2 2/20/17 9:33 AM Page 1
EXOTICS
I figured the real test would be in making I continued to work the KLAX in the split
my own handle and then seeing how the to remove and open up the wood so the
KLAX would perform with it. I cut a piece axe head would fit. I also had to slice away
of sapling about 20 inches long and about some wood to reduce the diameter around
FROM AROUND
THE WORLD
1.75 inches in diameter. That was perhaps the split end to allow room for the clamp.
a bit stouter than I needed, but I wanted I then whittled down the other end to
to make sure it would hold together when I reduce the size of the grip. This is when I
split one end to attach the axe head. found out how handy the KLAX was with-
I stood my new handle on its end and out the handle. I realized I would probably Are you searching
llard
tapped the KLAX axe blade into it, using use it just as often that waymore similar for unique exotic
es Bu
r JamTooth
another piece of wood as a baton. The to an ulu or skinner than a hatchet. handle material?
KLAX easily split the piece of sapling, and I I used the built-in knife blade to whittle Go online to
KnifeMammoth
choose from
make
had to be careful not to let the split run too the notches where the clamp would fit. The
far down the length of the wood. blade worked well, too, and the shape of our extensive
inventory !
The factory
handle is shown Musk Ox
next to the piece
of wood the
author chose to Ostrich Shin
make his own
handle. Making Gemsbok Horn
your own handle
enables you to
make it as long
Cape Buffalo
as youd like.
Zebra Bone
Mammoth Tooth
Impala Bone
Springbok Horn
Crocodile Skin
Mammoth Bark Ivory
Merino Ram Horn
Giraffe Bone
Blesbok Horn
Bottom Right: Nguni Horn
The author uses
a piece of wood
as a baton to
Fossilized Walrus
tap the back of
the KLAX for Kudu Horn
splitting one
end of what Wildebeest
will become the Jantz
tools handle.
Coral searches
diligently for
the highest
quality and
otts
most unique
nP
materials. As we
r St one
eve
procure products
ake e B
from around the

femGiraff
world, we offer
them on our website
Kni
at knifemaking.com.
You may also call for
assistance in choosing
your special piece.
knifemaking.com
1-800-351-8900

WITH A HANDLE OR
WITHOUT, THE KLAX IS
A QUALITY EDGED TOOL.
THE LONGER YOU OWN IT,
THE MORE USES YOULL
FIND FOR IT.
Above: The
author uses the
knife edge of the
KLAX to whittle
notches in each
side of the handle
where the clamp
will fit.
Left: The author

chose a rather thick
piece of wood for
a handle, because
he wanted to make
sure it held together
when one end was
split to fit the axe
head ...
Near left: ...

However, he had
to whittle down
the other end for a
better grip.
Far left: On its

own, the knife edge
is a very capable of
tool that adds to the
overall versatility of
the KLAX.

With a new
handle attached,
the KLAX showed
it could perform
more heavy-duty
chopping chores
than without it.
ASG-1707-KRW Packiing Machinery 2/28/17 8:02 AM Page 1
the tool provided a natural guard so my fingers

wouldnt slip forward onto the blade.
I had started with a piece of sapling that was
The only double-walled collapsible
actually a bit larger than what I needed, and I
trimmed it down until the axe head fit rather
tightly. I secured it by turning the thumbwheel
SMART BOTTLE container designed not to leak!
to tighten the clamp. In all, I spent only about 10

s Tough nylon exterior layer with
minutes in fashioning my handle for the KLAX. second inner layer prevents leaks
s For liquids and pourable solids
s Collapsible, compact, lightweight
I FOUND OUT HOW s Top and bottom handles for easy
HANDY THE KLAX carry and pouring
s Four grommets for hanging
WAS WITHOUT THE s Sizes 1/2, 1, 2 1/2 and 5 gallon
HANDLE. I REALIZED s Fast Pour or Tube Spout for
I WOULD PROBABLY ltering applications
USE IT JUST AS
OFTEN THAT WAY
MORE SIMILAR TO
AN ULU OR SKINNER
THAN A HATCHET.

B O T T L E
S O U R C E
Klecker Knives
(503) 871-9755
www.KleckerKnives.com
Order at: WWW.SMARTBOTTLEINC.COM
Phone: 828-658-0912 KRW1161

IPHONE
TO TOOLBOX There is a wide
range of Stowaway
Tools designed to
Just about everyone carries a cell phone and a key ring. fit into the slots of
a special iPhone
Klecker Knives offers a selection of small Stowaway Tools that
cover, thereby
you can store in the companys special iPhone cover or string converting your cell
phone into a take-
on your key chain or a carabiner. You automatically have a anywhere toolbox.
selection of tools when you grab your phone or keys and head
out the door.
There are currently 16 different Stowaway Tools offered;
these include a lockback knife, magnesium fire starter,
screwdrivers, tweezers, scissors, wrenches, pliers, belt
cutter, comb and pen. You can even get a key blank so you
can have a spare house key made that will store in the back
of your phone.
The iPhone cover features four storage slots so you can
mix and match your selection of tools to meet the days
activities. Say, for instance, you are going on a hike. You
might choose the knife, fire starter, tweezers (to remove Stowaway Tools
can also be carried
pesky ticks) and maybe the screwdrivers for equipment on a key chain or
repair. For urban missions, you might choose the pen, on this brass-and-
titanium carabiner
comb, scissors and belt cutter. offered by Klecker
I tested some of these and found them to work well, Knives.
considering that their small size doesnt give you much room
to get a grip. The knife was sharp and locked open securely.
The scissors worked well on various thicknesses of paper, and
the belt cutter easily cut through some narrow nylon straps.
The phone cases are available in several colors and sell
for $25. There are models for the iPhone 6 and iPhone 7
(with more, hopefully, on the way). The brass carabiner with
titanium gate is $30. Individual tools vary from $7 to $15.
The lockback
knife was sharp
and locked
securely. Although
quite small, it
can handle a
large number of
I then started chopping about a foot farther along the same log cutting chores
when you might
I had used earlier and found my new handle worked very well. As not have a pocket
knife with you.
with the factory handle, however, I did find that I had to retighten
the clamp just a little after a few strokes.
Even so, that wasnt a big concern. The KLAX never came close
to coming off my handle. As a matter of fact, when I was done
with the test, I had to use that wooden baton again to whack
the axe head off my handle. The baton was starting to show
some wear, but the KLAX was unscathed.
VERSATILE, PACKABLE TOOL

At an MSRP of $180, the KLAX Lumberjack Head is more expensive
than a typical hatchet but cheaper than many custom tomahawks.
And what you get is a versatile tool with many extra features and the
ability to carry it when youre traveling light those times you would
The Stowaway
leave your axe, hatchet or tomahawk at home. Tools belt cutter
easily sliced
With a handle or without, the KLAX is a quality edged tool. The through this
longer you own it, the more uses youll find for it. ASG nylon strap.

ASG-1709-Tops Knives 5/31/17 8:43 AM Page 1
ASG_1709_119.indd 119 6/5/17 4:39 AM

ASG-1709-SPRINGFIELD.indd 120 6/8/17 9:39 AM

SMALL PISTOL,
BIG ROLE
WHY I CHOSE THE
L
et me start off by saying that I have never been a big fan of handguns.
SPRINGFIELD XD-S 3.3

However, I believe they do have their place in the arsenal of anyone
interested in protecting themselves, their family and their survival
AS MY SOLE SIDEARM stores. When it comes down to it, I would rather use a 12-gauge shotgun
for home-defense; but away from home, a shotgun draws a great deal of attention
(typically unwanted attention).
BY DANA BENNER
My thoughts on sidearms changed because of the numerous shootings taking place
at schools, shopping malls and the like. Today, more than ever in our recent history,
there is a need to not only have the means of protecting yourself in public, but also
for knowing how to use those tools.

I FOUND THE
The authors
preferred
sidearmthe
XD-S TO BE LIGHT Springfield
XD-Salong with
AND TIGHT. IT American Eagle
rounds and
PERFORMED a Blackhawk!
holster
PERFECTLY
RIGHT OUT OF
THE BOX AND IS
REALLY FUN TO
SHOOT.
Because I didnt own a handgun, I needed
to do some research to decide which model
would be the right fit for my needs. Personal
security wasnt the only reason I would carry
this gun, so I needed to take a lot of factors
into consideration. Reading about how I
went through this process might help first-
time handgun buyers find the best option
for their own needs.
The main purpose for my firearms is
huntingwhich means I have rifles and Below:
Author Benner
shotguns, not handguns. While some practices
people do hunt with pistols, I never have. shooting his
XD-S right
I hunt pigs here, in New Hampshire, and handed.

The authors
pack with the
XD-S and Gerber
StrongArm knife.
These two help
keep the author
safe in the field
and when he is
away from home.
some of my friends who hunt pigs in to carry all day in the field on hunting trips. Second, it needed to have enough punch to
other parts of the country asked me what stop a wild boar or a bear in an emergency situation. And, third, I needed a firearm my
I was using as a sidearm. When I told wife could pick up and use in an emergency. The XD-S fit the bill.
them I didnt use one, they recommended During my search, I asked a lot of questions. I spoke to friends who hunt wild boar in
highly that I get one. I thought about it, Florida and Mississippi. I talked to bear hunters and with the people at gun stores. I got
realizing a long gun would do me no good Below: Loading different answers. Some preferred semiautomatics, while others liked revolvers. One
when trailing a wounded boar or bear a magazine with thing that they all agreed on is that I needed something with a lot of knockdown power
American Eagle
into thick brush. FMJ rounds and nothing smaller than a .357 Magnum.
So, now the search was on. Which hand-
gun would give me the knockdown power
I neededbut at the same time, would be
light enough to carry all day?
I visited gun shops and asked a lot of
questions. I looked at .44 Magnums and
.357 Magnums. I looked at revolvers and
semiautomatics. After a great deal of
searching, I found the Springfield XD-S 3.3
in .45 ACP. I liked its feel. It was just the
firearm I was looking for.
WHY THIS GUN?

There are plenty of really good hand-
guns on the market today in every style
and caliber you can think of, so the choice
was hard to make. When searching for
this gun, there were certain things I was
looking for: First, it had to be light enough
ASG-1709-SPRINGFIELD.CX.indd 123 6/9/17 12:11 AM

Right:
I spent 12 years in the U.S. Army, for Zeroing
which my issued sidearm was a 1911 .45 in on the
target at the
ACP; my personal sidearm was a Smith Manchester
& Wesson Model 27 .357 Magnum. Both Firing Range at
30 feet
guns have the power to do what I want,
but they are heavy, and weight and size
are issues. Because I was also looking for
a firearm my wife would feel comfortable
using, I also looked at .38s, .38 Specials,
.380s, 9mms and .40s; these were small
enough to meet most of my needs and
they are great people-stopping rounds,
but they would do little on a wounded
boar or an enraged bear.
The Springfield XD-S 3.3 was the perfect Below right:
Taking aim with
gun for my needs. It weighs 21.5 ounces his new XD-S,
(without a fully loaded magazine), the author was
six for six with
measures only 4.4 inches high when hits at 40 feet.
AMMUNITION
You have the firearm. Great; but what about using it?
Are you prepared to draw and fire? Can you hit what you
are aiming at?
When I first got the Springfield XD-S, I wanted to head right
for the range and see what itand Icould do. While hollow-
point (HP) ammunition would be what I would use for both
hunting and self-defense, it is much too expensive to use on
the shooting range.
Instead, I went with American Eagle .45 ACP Full Metal
Jacket (FMJ). It is perfect for the range, where a great deal
of ammunition will be spent sighting-in the gun and going
through the break-in process. If worse came to worse, this
ammunition could, and will, be used as a self-defense round
although with 230 grains and a muzzle velocity of 872 fps at
25 yards, be prepared for the round to go right through what
you are shooting at.
Due to the expense, I would not waste my money or
ammunition using HP rounds on the firing range. The
American Eagle rounds are perfect and less expensive. Keep
those HP rounds for the times when it really counts.
ASG-1709-SPRINGFIELD.CX.indd 124 6/9/17 12:11 AM

I NEEDED Above: The
author shoots his
fitted with the compact five-round
magazine and has an overall length of
is that because of the very nature of its
design, the available magazines dont
SOMETHING
XD-S left handed at
an outdoor range. just 6.3 inches. The polymer frame design, allow for the number of rounds many
WITH A LOT OF single-stack magazines and 3.3-inch people are used to.
barrel all work together to reduce weight
KNOCKDOWN and overall size. Springfield produces this SAFETY
POWER AND sidearm in .45 ACP, so I was able to get I am a firm believer in gun safety. Noth-
the knockdown power I was looking for. ing upsets me more than hearing about
NOTHING Despite the positives, there are a few someone being shotand the excuse
SMALLER THAN drawbacks to this firearm. First, the given is that someone was cleaning the
A .357 MAGNUM. standard five-round magazine makes

this firearm hard to handle if you happen
gun and it went off. Guns dont just go
off. The question is, Why were they
to have large hands. In its defense, the cleaning a loaded gun?
XD-S is designed to be a concealed-carry With that being said, I liked the XD-S
firearm, which requires the small size. because of its safety features. While no
There is a six-round magazine available gun is truly safe unless it is unloaded, the
that makes gun handling much easier XD-S is about as idiot-proof as you can
and user friendly. The second drawback make a gun.
Dave, Please add folio information to this page. Thanks, A

BLACKHAWK!
HOLSTERS
I am a 12-year veteran of the U.S. What I really like is the holsters
Army, so I take great pride in buying nylon construction. I often find
American-made products when I myself in less-than-ideal locations
can. Blackhawk! produces quality, and conditions. Nevertheless, the
American-made products. Originally material used can stand up to
started by a U.S. Navy SEAL, whatever I put it through.
this companys offerings are top
notch. My medical pouch is made Blackhawk! makes a ton of gear,
by Blackhawk!, so I went to this with holsters being just part of
manufacturer for the holster its products. This holster works
for my XD-S. for mebut it might not be for
everyone. However, Im sure youll
I shoot left handed, so finding find a suitable holster from among
a holster that fit my gun and the inventory Blackhawk produces.
was also left handed was nearly
impossible. However, Blackhawk!
makes numerous holster models
that are ambidextrous. I chose
the nylon ambidextrous multi-use
holster. It comes with a spare mag
pouch, which is a great extra feature.
I LIKED THE
XD-S BECAUSE
OF ITS SAFETY
FEATURES.
WHILE NO GUN
IS TRULY SAFE
UNLESS IT IS
UNLOADED, THE
XD-S IS ABOUT
AS IDIOT-PROOF
AS YOU CAN
MAKE A GUN.

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ASG_1709_127.indd 127 6/5/17 4:43 AM

One of the reasons I bought this
firearm was as a backup gun while I
am hunting. That means carrying it
loaded in the fielda place where a
stick or anything else could possibly
hit the trigger and discharge the
firearm. However, the XD-S offers a
couple of safety features that help
prevent this from happening.
There is the grip safety, which needs
to be depressed at the same time as
the trigger is pulled in order for the gun to
go off. Another safety feature is the Ultra
S O U R C E
Top: The
Springfield Armory Springfield XD-S
(800) 680-6866 with five-, six- and
www.Springfield-Armory.com seven-round
magazines
Blackhawk!
(800) 379-1732
www.Blackhawk.com
Above: The Springfield XD-S .45
ACP (Photo: Springfield Armory)

ASG-1706-TPS Arms 2/27/17 12:45 PM Page 1

T P S A R M S
TA C T I C A L PA R T S
S U P P LY & A R M S

Designed for those who require safety and reliability of a
mil-spec trigger. The pull of the ETG is manufactured to be
sharper and the grittiness and creep of the stock trigger
pull has been removed. The pull weight is not lower than
the M4/M16 minimum weight specification of 5.5 lbs.

Our parts are
proudly made
(320)358-0230 in the USA.
Above: Author Benner is shown working on his accuracy from 30 feet.

AD INDEX
SEPTEMBER 2017
Safety Assurance (USA) trigger system. This is depressed by your trigger
finger and works in conjunction with the grip safety. Even so, as good as ADVERTISER PAGE
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to be used, as well. ATABASE ............................................................................................................................................. 55
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SHOOTING
Camillus...............................................................................................................................................89
With my new gun in tow, I headed up north to Lancaster, New Hampshire, Condor Outdoor ................................................................................................................................132
where my friend Mark lives. He belongs to the Groveton Fish & Game Club, Doom and Bloom, LLC...................................................................................................................... 53
and I used its pistol range to put the XD-S through its paces. I have to Hogue Grips ......................................................................................................................................... 21
admit that I wasnt expecting a great deal, because the 1911 .45 I had in the Jantz Supply .................................................................................................................................73, 115
Army was nothing to write home about. It was loose and probably would LT Wright Handcrafted Knife Company ....................................................................................... 83
Major Surplus & Survival ............................................................................................................. 10-11
have only been good in a crowded elevator.
OFD Foods, Inc ................................................................................................................................... 47
I was proven wrong with the Springfield XD-S. Ready Made Resources .....................................................................................................................37
I found the XD-S to be light and tight. It performed perfectly right out Smart Bottle ...................................................................................................................................... 117
of the box and is really fun to shoot. At 25 yards, the rounds were going Strattec Security Corp. (BoltLock) .................................................................................................91
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Tormach LLC ....................................................................................................................................... 83
230-grain FMJ rounds.
TPS Arms ...........................................................................................................................................129
Even though I had fun firing the Springfield XD-S, at the end of the day,
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it is still a tool that has a specific job. To be honest with you, I hope I never World Gone Silent ..............................................................................................................................75
have to fire this gun anywhere, except at a shooting range. Nevertheless,
I feel a bit more comfortable having this firearm availableas well as the 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..
skill to use itif the need ever arises. ASG
ASG-1709-SPRINGFIELD.CX2.indd 129 6/12/17 12:52 AM

PATRIOT DAY 2017
We honor the thousands of people who lost their lives in the heinous
terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, as well as those who made the
ultimate sacrifice for our country in the years since.
130 AMERICAN SURVIVAL

AMERICAN SURVIVAL GUIDE
GUIDE [SEPTEMBER
[AUGUST 2017]
ASG-1709-LAST (TRIBUTE).indd 130 6/12/17 12:12 AM

ASG-1709-Surefire 6/1/17 9:03 AM Page 1
OPTIONS ARE THE KEY TO SURVIVAL
The only certainty off the beaten path is
uncertainty - thats why the rechargeable DBR
Guardian gives you two useful beams from
one rugged polymer portable package. The

rst provides a wide beam of light for closer
range tasks, while the second is far-reaching for

searching/signaling. Both are controlled by our
auto-adjusting IntelliBeam Technology that
delivers the perfect amount of light for your
surroundings. The included micro USB-C
cable makes it easy to recharge with a

solar-powered charging system. Its
good to have options.
DBR GUARDIAN
ULTRA-HIGH DUAL-OUTPUT LED
800 3 230
LUMENS HOURS METERS
OUTPUT RUNTIME DISTANCE
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American Survival Guide September 2017

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American Survival Guide September 2017

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HOW-TO: Utilize Your Dog's Instincts

AMERICAN SURVIVAL GUIDE

ESCAPE NATURES FURY

BEATING AROUND HOMEMADE

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,FZ.PE JTIFSF KeyMod is the tactical

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KeyMod is here! KeyMod is the tactical

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4 AMERICAN SURVIVAL GUIDE [SEPTEMBER 2017]

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Some articles in this issue might

[ASGMAG.COM] AMERICAN SURVIVAL GUIDE 5

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6 AMERICAN SURVIVAL GUIDE [SEPTEMBER 2017]

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8 AMERICAN SURVIVAL GUIDE [SEPTEMBER 2017]

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CALL TOLL FREE THOUSANDS OF

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12 COMPLETE filter. ea (1) Knee/elbow bandage

that has a rear zippered

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12 AMERICAN SURVIVAL GUIDE [SEPTEMBER 2017]

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[ASGMAG.COM] AMERICAN SURVIVAL GUIDE 13

ASG-1709-PRODUCTS.indd 13 6/13/17 2:38 AM

ASG-1709-MONTH.indd 14 6/6/17 12:17 AM

[ASGMAG.COM] AMERICAN SURVIVAL GUIDE 15

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GETTING THE WORD OUT

16 AMERICAN SURVIVAL GUIDE [SEPTEMBER 2017]

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natural disasters and potential terrorist

[ASGMAG.COM] AMERICAN SURVIVAL GUIDE 17

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GET THE APP

18 AMERICAN SURVIVAL GUIDE [SEPTEMBER 2017]

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[ASGMAG.COM] AMERICAN SURVIVAL GUIDE 19

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Communities conduct Prepare-