when i was 15 for my birthday..my grandfather took me to the pawnshop / hardware store in my small town..digging thru the boxes of used tools... he created a full set of hand tools wrenches. ratchets sockets ect.. after we had paid for them and gotten back home to clean oil and arrange the tools in a old tool box he was giving me..he gave me this bit of advice..he said these are cheap tools..some are good ,,,some not so much..use them... and when you break or wear out a tool ..buy a better quality one to replace it with..over time that hand full of tools i used very often turned into higher quality tools..and the tools that saw very little use..stayed cheap ones..there is a lot of wisdom that comes from using cheap tools.. axes /saws /knives/rucksacks/tarps..they prepare you for having good gear....good video sir much respect..safe journeys
Sven3xs isnt that the truth! As a young man I so often thought that so many of the “older sayings” and advice shared with me from my grandparents was largely out of touch with my reality at the time. I am constantly humbled as time has advanced on and the truth and wisdom in all that I was told and taught has revealed itself to be spot on and sound. The saying that “ there is nothing new under the sun” resonates with me so much in understanding that although times change, basic common sense and wisdom seldom does. It is more often than not my lack of experience to appreciate the lessons passed on to me in years prior to fully understand those lessons and lovingly passed on good advice.
this is what i like about Dave.he sells a lot of things and reviews some things,but he is always telling you that you don't need the most expensive stuff.when he could be telling you that you need to go buy his products in his store because it's the best and you have to have the best products to do what he dose.
One of the things I really appreciate about you Dave, is that you haven't forgot the common man. I notice that while the products you produce are excellent quality, most are geared toward the average person's budget. I think the first bushcraft videos I ever watched were your common man series many years ago.
I don't know many people that have the integrity the say "I have a store but you might not need to buy from there." Solid respect for Dave AND a great life lesson as well.
I'm glad someone finally made this video. I'm sure there will be heads explode from this. But I bet there is one kid or one dad that will watch this and it will change everything for them. Thanks and God Bless you and everyone who reads this.
Good advice, I respect him for this video he sells a lot of survival items but still points out that you can always buy a cheaper option even though its not really in his own interest. Dave is my favourite survivalist, more like a classical woodsman.
You the Man David 💯 !! I just cut there small trees away from my out building. Got Papa's old hand saws out and it took all day. My wife asked me why I used the old stuff... I told her, cause it still works fine and it's a pretty day outside, good workout !
Dave, I've been a Chef for over 35 years and the very first Chef's knife I ever got was a Case high carbon knife that my dad bought me in our local hardware store. I still have it and almost never use it but it's still razor sharp and will never leave my possession. I appreciate your point about not being caught up in the latest/greatest craze in bushcraft because WAY too many You Tubers do "kit" reviews displaying nothing but the most expensive tools available and all I can ask myself is what kind of example does this pose for someone just getting into the outdoors? Your video was most appreciated.
Wise counsel. It's amazing how people "fall back" on what they used to learn their skills as what they go back to if they need something dependable, rather than the latest and greatest....and most expensive. Practicality over price. Thank you for what you do. I appreciate your opinion more with each experience I have. Keep up the good work.
Man, couldn’t agree more! My trade is HVAC and while I may buy top end gear to earn my paycheck (as well as being dependable and tough), if I need a pry bar or sledgehammer it’s Harbor Freight all day long haha. I pick and choose what to spend a premium on and why. For bushcraft/Survival I’m pretty much the same way, certain items I’ll pay more for, others I won’t. Thanks for a down to earth video.
Thanks for the reality check. I am guilty of getting caught up in wanting to have the greatest and latest gear. There are some items that you should spend more money on, but others just have to work. Great advice for all of us, but especially for people like me who’s relatively new to bushcrafting. Thanks again.
@@CrownPointOnline one mans trash is another mans treasure. Hell most people who have a shed full of junk will probably let you dig through and keep what you find if you ask them.
@@CrownPointOnline Asking, dumpster diving, and learning to rebuild or reuse things. We didn't have a lot growing up so we made do. My family lived that for generations.
Just grew up poor and played in the woods. But others in neighbor hood were poor also, in the 1950's. I worked all through H.S. . I saw what really is poor in Vietnam. I've never been poor since, I got out of Army.
Great video by a great instructor! Whenever I upgrade an item or have extra equipment, I have My cousin's son who is a 16 year old Eagle scout and his friends Do certain skills like building a bird's nest and starting a fire with char cloth, gathering sticks and separating them into size for a fire lay and other simple tasks while we are practicing our Bush craft skills in the back yard woods and then I have a little award ceremony afterward and I give out my extras just to keep them off their phones and motivate them. I think they appreciate the gift better when they know they actually earned the item.
I have a variety of both expensive and cheap gear that I use in the woods. I always tell everyone that you get what you pay for when it comes to gear. But the cheap stuff will work as well. Thank you for another great video Dave
Usually with 'cheap stuff' you have to put a bit of work into them to make them useable. Ie: knives, axes, saws. Usually edged tools have uneven grinds, are not well sharpened, may not have a sheath. The saws, they may have an improper set to the teeth, etc.
@@bwillan good point my friend. I bought a cheap axe which I had to sharpen and did not come with a sheath. I spent quite a bit more on an axe that came razor sharp and had a nice leather sheath.
True stuff here that's my most favorite part about you Dave your still a real guy no matter how big you get your still human I have 3 kids and make only 2k a month rents 850 so my outdoor gear is largely yard sale or home made but your videos really help give me ideas to build gear on the cheap so all of my family can enjoy camping and hunting in the woods as a family and with a good knife and a bit of thought process my family and I really flourish in the woods in all seasons thanks again Dave hope to some day make it to your class with my girls
Good talk Dave! I often look around in my basement and wonder why I have a tool I don't use, or rather is "too expensive/too nice" to use. Of course there are a couple of sentimental/collectible items but the majority of the accumulated stuff is just that, stuff. Two is one and one is none, but 35 Mora knives is a tad too much hah!
Great video Dave! I am recently retired from 27+ years in Law Enforcement and have been following your videos for many years! I stay with the 'COMMON MAN' mentality and lifestyle, buying good quality "used" flea market and yard sale items, refurbishing them for my use! I have been amassing quite a few tools this way and it works for me! Example: I took my Mom to a Thrift store the other day (she is a MASTER at refurbishing items for sale as her retirement income!!) and I scored 2 Stainless Steel plates in excellent shape for .75 cents! These will go nicely in my all stainless cook set! I'm okay with the extra weight, as I don't travel that far on foot anymore (prior injuries have slowed me down a bit!). Sorry so long, but it was what was on my mind!
That was a really good message brother!! Something I think a lot of people needed to here. And probably good they heard it straight from the man himself. It seems too often people get caught up in this need to have whatever the cool kids have. The latest pair of Jordans, the expensive designer jeans, the newest cell phone, the custome $300 knife with custome sheath, the $500 name brand wool hoodie or backpack just so they feel like they fit in the club. And youre absolutely right, not everyone needs those things or can afford those things. They can get by with less expensive off brand items or second hand gear and still be successful in the woods. Do the best you can with what you got and what you can afford and upgrade when you can to meet your individual needs.
This is great advice as always. One of my goto tools is an aged bilhook that I inherited years ago. Solidly made, takes a beating but cleans up and sharpens perfectly.
Dave, it's really nice to hear this come from you.. yes I buy things I just can't find elsewhere from S.R.O . Others from where I can find what works for me from the cheapest seller .. I recently watched a video about ledlenser lights that just plain simply sounded like a " corporate sell out" info commercial. Very nice rebuttal to that . The Key to tools .. knowledge in how to properly use what you can afford
Love this video! I think we have fallen prey into consumerism with so much TH-camrs pushing so much new affiliated stuffs every day! It is good to go back to the basic and master the fundamentals! Btw a $15 Mora bushcraft knife performs just as good as a custom knife in most tasks... so dont need to spend a bomb to get into the hobby! 🙂❤🙂
Hi Dave, 😊 thanks for your video, I couldn't have said it better myself. As you said ,you don't have to buy the best gear available, I think it's wise to put your money into critical things like clothing, boots etc, and your basic kit items that you use alot should be robust, and reliable. The shovel that you showed us will probably outlast two lifetimes, some of the old tools are better made than anything you can buy today, they were built to last. Best wishes to you and your's, Stuart.uk.
My experience with tools has taught me that I have to like the handle. If the handle does not feel comfortable then the tool will always feel awkward no matter what the quality of materials. Cordless drills are sold by constantly improving handle grip and balance while the drill stays the same. My second observation is the convenience of the tool. If it is nearby or easily accessible it will see far more use than what is stored in the bottom of a pile in a locked tool box. Perhaps this explains the popularity of multitools or the multiple ways screwdrivers are used, they are usually near to hand. Experience will teach you to work with anything, but you will always have your preferences.
If you get wrapped up in the gear youll always be chasing the upgrade. If you focus on your experience what you want, need or what is worth the expense become super evident. Agree with you Dave.
30(or is it 40) $$ jääkäripuukko does the same for half the price. i have 140, will buy 110 and skrama too. Not willing to pay those crazy prices for tools i'll use in field. maybe for shelf queens, but tool? nope, not me.
@MacTehKnife if I needed anything that goes beyond what one does I use a hatchet or an axe, don't need to baton every knife in the world,never needed to in the last 30 years never will. Knives do knife jobs, anything else use the right tool.
(4) $ 12.00 Moras vs. (1) 90.00. I suggest the (4) ...So that is a Mora in each vehicle, house and garage. Same for headlamps and gloves. 3 is 2 is 1 is none etc. Oh yeah...wool wins .:)
Victorinox now has a fixed blade for $200!!! Looks like a Garberg, which performs very much like a $20 Mora. Marketing ploys my friend, nothing more. Save your money and do your research.
Thank you for putting this video out, I have been a Long time viewer, I would love to attend one of your classes, but North Dakota is a long way from any of your locations.
I don't much care what people think of me these days. I walk the neighborhoods here in Southern California and often discover that a local has placed various tools out by the curb. I have picked up several shovels, post hole digger, hand tools and other sundry items. Very usable shape, I picked up a sledge hammer which needed the handle replaced, cheap, easy and quick fix. Reduce, reuse, recycle. Save money and equip yourself. Excellent video, thanks.
THANK YOU for this vid. I'm sick of the 'I'll pay anything for the best' attitude as it has driven the prices to unaffordable heights. Before camping became 'bushcrafting' I was able to get all the proper equipment I needed to be safe and have an awesome outdoor experience. Now I can't even afford the inflated shipping. I am a CAMPER (not a bushcrafter) no matter how many spoons I carve. Camping used to be abt the outdoors, now it is all abt the gear. I'm so not cool cuz I don't have a titanium cook set. Hell, I cant even buy the awesome Canteen Set cuz I missed the incredible $50ish sale a year ago by ONE day. Lol. Great vids, great products but best of all, sharing your great KNOWLEDGE. Thanks Dave, be Blessed in all good things.
Excellent video. I was taught about tools in the 1950s and 60s. What I have seen over the years is that many tools newer than the 1970s have issues with their steel quality. I prefer the older tools. Add a "D" handle to the shovel. It shows barely any wear. Good Luck, Rick
I absolutely agree. As long as a tool is sharp/properly maintained, doesn't give you blisters, and holds up, for the most part, it will do whatever you ask of it. In any hobby/niche you'll have people that get really in technicalities and have to have the best, most expensive gear, but that's almost never necessary. For example, I've seen entire forums on compost where people discuss moisture levels, ratios of yard waste and food waste, pH, etc, when in reality if you throw your yard waste and food scraps in a pile and forget about it for a year or two, you'll still have compost
Watching your video, which I am wholeheartedly in agreement with, I was reminded of the first time I encountered a $500.00 fishing rod and a $300.00 reel at a local outdoor show. I was so stunned that I blurted out to the sales clerk that "My grandpa would wup me within an inch of my life If I came home with that outfit", especially since I had been catching trout and bass with the closed face Zebco he had bought me one year for Christmas. I love my Hults Bruk Kisa, a gift, but I use my Fiskars "splitting" axe 75% more when around camp. Oh well, isn't it grand being an American. Thanks Dave for reminding us what's really important.
My shovel that stays in my pickup bed year round is a square nose that I broke the handle on. I cut the handle off at the break and cut the blade back to match and sharpened it on the end and one side. Works like a champ.
Exellent video Dave! This is something that needed to be said by an industry leader. You dont need to buy into the "Gearhead" culture to get out in the woods. Honestly those who are forced to improvise because of monetary limitations tend to learn alot more in the long run. I have sold Finnish and Swedish collared axes for a hell of alot more than a common boys axe and as awesome as they may be, the common boys axe whether vintage American or a current Council tool, they will accomplish the same end goal without a hell of alot of difference. If you can afford cool gear, that's great, but if you have modest means that shouldn't stop you from doing. I started from very humble means and I have gained a hell of alot more knowledge and skill from it than if I simply purchased all of the tools I wanted.
The axe story reminds me of TH-camr Doug Linker talking (he actually did a video on it) about, as a teen, he scraped up and scrimped and saved and finally bought that expensive scandinavian axe ," Cause he was going get through the cutting process so much more efficiently than with his el cheapo." It didn`t happen..
Looking forward to learning a lot about your outdoor channel so I can apply it on mine I’m starting to get into hunting and trapping and Bush craft a little more
Great point brother, i have not heard anyone talk about this in the outdoor community at all, well for quite a while. On my channel and what i am about is price to performance ratio, if an item performs for its value and features set compared to other items, I go for it.
Always good to have reminder videos to keep ourselves in check with regards to a blend of cost effectiveness and fit for purpose... that said, I haven't exactly mastered this approach yet as I always seem to self justify that really expensive item in my own mind lol
This is A1 info ive gathered a bunch of old Hytest axe heads and some swedish ones also. A lot of work to rehandle and revive them but can't beat old tools for cheap.
Nice rant my friend. I grew up poor and we had tools to get the job done. I grew up and got a job and not until then I got to buy quality tools. I still use the cheep tools and they still get the job done for me. A Lot of my cheap tools are old tools and i fill they was made better than some of today's tool. Always nice to hear this kind of stuff from a man that has made a name for him self and can have about what ever he wants
For me Dave I love buying used tools. I too get a new one now and then but something about buying a quality old one and saving a few bucks. It's also nice to have to fix some of the used ones and look at the end result as you use it. Ray, Millbank Bags USA
Exactly. I have Gransfors and Wetterlings etc but I have an old axe that I got at the jockey lot for just a few dollars that has no name on it but I cleaned it up and sharpened it and wow what a great axe it turned out to be. It’s more about the tool that you carry between your ears than the tools that you carry in your hands.
waited 2 years to decide on my long range rifle . researched bullet drop, kinetic energy , recoil, availability of aftermarket upgrades etc . finally decided on remington 700 in 25 06 havent regretted the choice in the 6 years ive owned it.
TheOldGunsmith58 I have a Ruger 77 in 25-06. Thing is a tack driver and since I reload for it I use 30-06 brass that I have tons of. Great round for sure.
$30 to $40 for a Silky saw is a no-brainer. They outperform and outclass every saw out there. I'd LOVE to meet someone who bought and used a Silky (properly, they do require a different technique) but claimed it was no better than their el cheapo xyz brand...they'd be lying! It's worth the money in a way that few things are these days. Does the $500 knife perform 10 times better than the $50 knife? Bet not. Unless you have the money for such things, then knock yourself out and enjoy!
Me too, I bought a cheap corona from lowes to get me through while I waited though to make sure that type of saw was for me. But i truly love my silky :)
Rant on Dave. Good video. And so true, I have a Plumb belt axe that I use. Would not part with it. Bought it used for around $20. The belt axe and my PFK wildcat knife are all I need. By the way, after watching another of your video’s, I just ordered a Tentsmiths 8’x8’ oilskin tarp. Thanks for all you do Dave.
Great video Dave, why I have so much SRO gear you don't try to re-invent the wheel. Your gear is well made, gets the job done at a good price. My friends are amazed at times when I break out a piece of SRO kit and they like it and I tell them what it cost!!!! SRO gear is hard to beat!!!!!!
Thank you sir for exposing a fallacy of thought in not only the bushcraft community, but the prep'n survival community aswell. A lot of folks just want to get out and have fun, or have a hobby and can only afford what they can, and often get shamed by others in the community.
I have a little store in a flea market in Houston selling different gear...some military surplus, some not. I put together a Bushcraft tool kit starter pack using a military battering ram carrier. I added a shorty shovel, a small ax, a small bow saw and a 12" machete + around 40 feet of Paracord. There's room to add more but I figure it's a decent start on a Bushcraft tool kit for $40. None of the tools are top of the line because like I said..it's a place for someone to start.
Fantastic video! I think in today’s world of keeping up with the Joneses, we sometimes go a bit overboard on what we actually need. I sometimes sure have. Thanks for the video, it will give a refreshing perspective and get more people (me) out there enjoying what we have!! Keep it up!!
You did a video series called Bullet proof bushcraft on a budget years ago and I got an old hickory knife based off that. I've never justified replacing it other than it's 7" long and I'm waiting for the release of their 5" version.
Speaking of care, many get hung up on the "care" of a tool. all three these tools show are not "cared" for, yet, they are functioning very well. OCD gets the better part of many, shiny pots(can't have a sooty bush pot), tools that are hardly used, extra time spent polishing, to the degree that is often unnecessary. The axe show in an excellent example,
Well when I was a kid , Rambo and crocodile Dundee changed my life and when I was 9 my uncle said all my knives where crap cause they where not USA made. I lived by this motto for almost 30 years , back then I saved up for a case xx usmc knife, cut the finger guard off and I was ready for anything the woods could throw at me. Then I had a son who is 8 now and I bought name brand made over seas so if he broke it or bit out the blade or bent from throwing or hitting a rock it wouldn’t bother me. God forbid he touched one of my high end custom knives. So I bought him and me a cheap overseas little steel based off the 10 C’s and literally there is not much difference and I was wowed by there performance. Most noticeable Taiwan, and Japan I was very impressed. Thanks Mr. Canterbury great video
I have hand tools like axes, mauls, shovels and saws that are now forty years old and still holding up great. Get the job done. Excellent Video As Always. 💯👍👍😎
Great point, Mr. Canerbury. I'd also add the recommendation to not talk down on people for having less expensive gear than you. I see this all the time, online, where people get crapped on because they carry a $20 folding knife, or whatever.
My fave 1 handed hatchet made by Gerber. Everyone says it's garbage but I tested cut a 4 inch tree with it and turned said tree into fire wood and sharpened parts for stakes while driving it with the hatchet. We did a test run and when there done choping my shelter is half way up. I don't know how big of a tree it will cut but it stays in my hiking bag and hope I don't need but its there
Lots of snobbery out there...there was a time Gerber was US made and was among the best you could buy. Owned by Fiskars now, I think, so that hatchet is probably Swiss steel...and that's good!
I almost committed on the shovel video but decided to hold of . It is like you say as fare as tools go old does not mean not good in most cases it means better. At 76 I am still using my grand dad's shovel and he passed at 104 fly fishing next to me.I still use all of his stuff even the large tents tents . That shovel is so thin now it's hard to be leave it has not broken. Here in California in the Sierras you are hard pressed to find dirt it's nothing but granite it's hard life here for a shovel . As to your gear going with no care the care aspect should be one of the things you focus on in your classes no reason students can't take care of that gear I know it's not what they want to do but it is part of the learning experience and was # one in my growing up care took priority over most everything . Those 100 year old tents get retreated every 3 years like clock work all the leather gets treated every year at thanksgiving when everyone is around it has been like that since I could walk . Stay safe and Happy trails Great common since Video keep them coming.
Had to comment Dave... No Matter which product I buy, I want something that is made well and will not fail. Problem is, most Quality products are more expensive. Im glad that I have a love for old things.... Pretty or a name brand won't save Your ass.... Dependability is where it's at for Me.... My Gransfors hatchet was 190 bucks....a five dollar yard sale hatchet will do everything My hatchet will... Not as perfectly but just as dependable if not more... Great video!
Thanks for the video Dave. I understand exactly what you are saying. Speaking of shovels, do you sharpen yours? I didn't for most of my life. I know you are in south central Ohio, which is a lot like here in WV you won't dig much with hitting a lot of roots vines and such. Run that shovel across the belt sander a couple times and you will see a big difference, believe me.
I agree and have another agrument that became relevant for me: Cheap stuff is like Silvester Stallone - expendable. If I am in the woods at night I tend to lose stuff. If you train in adverse conditions you might have more wear on equipment. I have a lot of high quality knives and gear - but Mora knives, cheap noname folding garden saws, Victoinox knives and Big lighters I have always on hand. The Mora knive: Great tool, I have at least half a dozen lying around, in the car, in every back pack etc. No need to treat with care. Go and break one or 2, that way you lern how far you can go with them. You can sheath it being dirty/bloody if need be and soak it in warm soap water at home. The cheap folding saws: I do things with them I would not like to do with an expensive version, like cutting wood full of tree gum, cutting wood that is under tension and might pinch the blade, letting kids/drunk guys use it, using it with 2 hands with speed and pressure risking damage etc. If gear is to expensive to train with that is a problem.
If u got a dead lighter Dave take metal guard off and use both hands and push gas down wit finger hold it down while u turn wheel and will get a tiny flame and a dead lighter can do that for nearly 50 more lights. Idk I find it useful to know so thought I'd share. Godbless
I scored a free tarp from from harbor freight with a coupon, and a $2 blanket from the thrift store. Of course these would be sub par for actual camping, but, I have everything I need to at least practice my skills until I can afford adequate gear.
One of the best hatches I have cost less than 30 bucks. I haven't replaced it in 3 years of use because the more expensives brands are not the increase-in-cost better, than this cheap-o one. Does the job very well and until I find one that's performance is worth the price increase, i'm sticking with it.
@@DavidCanterbury That was my point Dave and I totally understand that you have to promote your shop items to feed the love ones! I was probably not very clear as english in not my main language. I just wanted to say that rare are the shop owners that take precious time to show us alternative options and how to think regarding a desire item. You've done it multiple times on your channel over the time I've sub and for that, I raise my hat up high for you!
Anyone else have experience with the Pete Rickards pack baskets? They're the same baskets you can buy from Duluth Pack and I believe Frost River but they're significantly cheaper come straight from the manufacturer.
Dave has a point. Generally get the best you can as a durable product you will have for decades. But the highest dollar item will last as long as a lower cost item if you are not making daily use of it, that is cost effectiveness. A mechanic needs tools that will not easily fail with 8 hour a day use 5 to 7 days a week. If it fails the job is delayed which means not getting money from the next job in the line, it will go to someone else. Also not delivering on time means in the future the customer will go somewhere else. So expensive tools make money. Craftsman tools? I have not only them but Powerkraft tools bought from Montgomery Wards in the early 70's still in use for my personal vehicles. Cost effective for me.
when i was 15 for my birthday..my grandfather took me to the pawnshop / hardware store in my small town..digging thru the boxes of used tools... he created a full set of hand tools wrenches. ratchets sockets ect.. after we had paid for them and gotten back home to clean oil and arrange the tools in a old tool box he was giving me..he gave me this bit of advice..he said these are cheap tools..some are good ,,,some not so much..use them... and when you break or wear out a tool ..buy a better quality one to replace it with..over time that hand full of tools i used very often turned into higher quality tools..and the tools that saw very little use..stayed cheap ones..there is a lot of wisdom that comes from using cheap tools.. axes /saws /knives/rucksacks/tarps..they prepare you for having good gear....good video sir much respect..safe journeys
Thanks for sharing. I enjoyed that story 👍😀
Very wise, Blackie! I think I may take this bit of wisdom for myself, thank you!
That is wise advice for sure.
Sven3xs isnt that the truth! As a young man I so often thought that so many of the “older sayings” and advice shared with me from my grandparents was largely out of touch with my reality at the time. I am constantly humbled as time has advanced on and the truth and wisdom in all that I was told and taught has revealed itself to be spot on and sound. The saying that “ there is nothing new under the sun” resonates with me so much in understanding that although times change, basic common sense and wisdom seldom does. It is more often than not my lack of experience to appreciate the lessons passed on to me in years prior to fully understand those lessons and lovingly passed on good advice.
Grandpas are smart........until they loose it......yours is a great comment. Thanks from a grandpa.
The true value of a tool is not what it cost, but what you can do with it.
this is what i like about Dave.he sells a lot of things and reviews some things,but he is always telling you that you don't need the most expensive stuff.when he could be telling you that you need to go buy his products in his store because it's the best and you have to have the best products to do what he dose.
i cannot overstate how refreshing it is to see this!
One of the things I really appreciate about you Dave, is that you haven't forgot the common man. I notice that while the products you produce are excellent quality, most are geared toward the average person's budget. I think the first bushcraft videos I ever watched were your common man series many years ago.
I don't know many people that have the integrity the say "I have a store but you might not need to buy from there."
Solid respect for Dave AND a great life lesson as well.
I'm glad someone finally made this video. I'm sure there will be heads explode from this. But I bet there is one kid or one dad that will watch this and it will change everything for them. Thanks and God Bless you and everyone who reads this.
Good advice, I respect him for this video he sells a lot of survival items but still points out that you can always buy a cheaper option even though its not really in his own interest. Dave is my favourite survivalist, more like a classical woodsman.
You are just a wise dude . By far 1 of my favorite channels . I love the outdoors but I love different terrain and the excitement of a new trail .
You the Man David 💯 !!
I just cut there small trees away from my out building. Got Papa's old hand saws out and it took all day. My wife asked me why I used the old stuff... I told her, cause it still works fine and it's a pretty day outside, good workout !
That’s why I buy pks and mora knives they’ll do anything that need done in the bush and at home and i don’t have to take out a second mortgage
Dave, I've been a Chef for over 35 years and the very first Chef's knife I ever got was a Case high carbon knife that my dad bought me in our local hardware store. I still have it and almost never use it but it's still razor sharp and will never leave my possession. I appreciate your point about not being caught up in the latest/greatest craze in bushcraft because WAY too many You Tubers do "kit" reviews displaying nothing but the most expensive tools available and all I can ask myself is what kind of example does this pose for someone just getting into the outdoors? Your video was most appreciated.
Wise counsel. It's amazing how people "fall back" on what they used to learn their skills as what they go back to if they need something dependable, rather than the latest and greatest....and most expensive. Practicality over price.
Thank you for what you do. I appreciate your opinion more with each experience I have. Keep up the good work.
Man, couldn’t agree more! My trade is HVAC and while I may buy top end gear to earn my paycheck (as well as being dependable and tough), if I need a pry bar or sledgehammer it’s Harbor Freight all day long haha. I pick and choose what to spend a premium on and why. For bushcraft/Survival I’m pretty much the same way, certain items I’ll pay more for, others I won’t. Thanks for a down to earth video.
Hard to beat some of the stuff I've gotten from Harbor Freight. Love the Hercules miter saw, and the lil Easy Flux 125 welder is a lot of fun.😁
Dave, I know it isnt much, but I really appreciate the little sign off you do at the end of your vids. It means a lot
Me too it's nostalgic I think 😬
Thanks for the reality check. I am guilty of getting caught up in wanting to have the greatest and latest gear. There are some items that you should spend more money on, but others just have to work. Great advice for all of us, but especially for people like me who’s relatively new to bushcrafting. Thanks again.
Excellent video & good topic. - one near to my heart. I grew up poor in the woods, so even to this day I get a lot (most?) of my gear for free.
How do you get gear for free?
@@CrownPointOnline one mans trash is another mans treasure. Hell most people who have a shed full of junk will probably let you dig through and keep what you find if you ask them.
@@CrownPointOnline Asking, dumpster diving, and learning to rebuild or reuse things. We didn't have a lot growing up so we made do. My family lived that for generations.
@@slickydicky amen
Just grew up poor and played in the woods. But others in neighbor hood were poor also, in the 1950's. I worked all through H.S. . I saw what really is poor in Vietnam. I've never been poor since, I got out of Army.
Great video by a great instructor! Whenever I upgrade an item or have extra equipment, I have My cousin's son who is a 16 year old Eagle scout and his friends Do certain skills like building a bird's nest and starting a fire with char cloth, gathering sticks and separating them into size for a fire lay and other simple tasks while we are practicing our Bush craft skills in the back yard woods and then I have a little award ceremony afterward and I give out my extras just to keep them off their phones and motivate them. I think they appreciate the gift better when they know they actually earned the item.
This is a great point. You’ll always need solid “users” around to get work done.
Thanks for the heads up on the new product line😃
I have a variety of both expensive and cheap gear that I use in the woods.
I always tell everyone that you get what you pay for when it comes to gear. But the cheap stuff will work as well.
Thank you for another great video Dave
Usually with 'cheap stuff' you have to put a bit of work into them to make them useable. Ie: knives, axes, saws. Usually edged tools have uneven grinds, are not well sharpened, may not have a sheath. The saws, they may have an improper set to the teeth, etc.
@@bwillan good point my friend. I bought a cheap axe which I had to sharpen and did not come with a sheath.
I spent quite a bit more on an axe that came razor sharp and had a nice leather sheath.
True stuff here that's my most favorite part about you Dave your still a real guy no matter how big you get your still human I have 3 kids and make only 2k a month rents 850 so my outdoor gear is largely yard sale or home made but your videos really help give me ideas to build gear on the cheap so all of my family can enjoy camping and hunting in the woods as a family and with a good knife and a bit of thought process my family and I really flourish in the woods in all seasons thanks again Dave hope to some day make it to your class with my girls
Thanks man
Glad you did this I'm always looking for things that will get the job done on the cheep but that doesn't mean poor quality thanks
Good talk Dave! I often look around in my basement and wonder why I have a tool I don't use, or rather is "too expensive/too nice" to use. Of course there are a couple of sentimental/collectible items but the majority of the accumulated stuff is just that, stuff. Two is one and one is none, but 35 Mora knives is a tad too much hah!
The best tools I own came from an antique store. Great point.
Great video Dave! I am recently retired from 27+ years in Law Enforcement and have been following your videos for many years! I stay with the 'COMMON MAN' mentality and lifestyle, buying good quality "used" flea market and yard sale items, refurbishing them for my use! I have been amassing quite a few tools this way and it works for me! Example: I took my Mom to a Thrift store the other day (she is a MASTER at refurbishing items for sale as her retirement income!!) and I scored 2 Stainless Steel plates in excellent shape for .75 cents! These will go nicely in my all stainless cook set! I'm okay with the extra weight, as I don't travel that far on foot anymore (prior injuries have slowed me down a bit!).
Sorry so long, but it was what was on my mind!
That was a really good message brother!! Something I think a lot of people needed to here. And probably good they heard it straight from the man himself. It seems too often people get caught up in this need to have whatever the cool kids have. The latest pair of Jordans, the expensive designer jeans, the newest cell phone, the custome $300 knife with custome sheath, the $500 name brand wool hoodie or backpack just so they feel like they fit in the club. And youre absolutely right, not everyone needs those things or can afford those things. They can get by with less expensive off brand items or second hand gear and still be successful in the woods. Do the best you can with what you got and what you can afford and upgrade when you can to meet your individual needs.
Remember the Old Hickory Butcher Knife Videos? 😉
This is great advice as always. One of my goto tools is an aged bilhook that I inherited years ago. Solidly made, takes a beating but cleans up and sharpens perfectly.
Dave, it's really nice to hear this come from you.. yes I buy things I just can't find elsewhere from S.R.O . Others from where I can find what works for me from the cheapest seller .. I recently watched a video about ledlenser lights that just plain simply sounded like a " corporate sell out" info commercial. Very nice rebuttal to that . The Key to tools .. knowledge in how to properly use what you can afford
Best rant I've heard in a long time Dave. . spot on nailed it
Love this video! I think we have fallen prey into consumerism with so much TH-camrs pushing so much new affiliated stuffs every day! It is good to go back to the basic and master the fundamentals! Btw a $15 Mora bushcraft knife performs just as good as a custom knife in most tasks... so dont need to spend a bomb to get into the hobby! 🙂❤🙂
Hi Dave, 😊 thanks for your video, I couldn't have said it better myself. As you said ,you don't have to buy the best gear available, I think it's wise to put your money into critical things like clothing, boots etc, and your basic kit items that you use alot should be robust, and reliable. The shovel that you showed us will probably outlast two lifetimes, some of the old tools are better made than anything you can buy today, they were built to last. Best wishes to you and your's, Stuart.uk.
My experience with tools has taught me that I have to like the handle. If the handle does not feel comfortable then the tool will always feel awkward no matter what the quality of materials. Cordless drills are sold by constantly improving handle grip and balance while the drill stays the same. My second observation is the convenience of the tool. If it is nearby or easily accessible it will see far more use than what is stored in the bottom of a pile in a locked tool box. Perhaps this explains the popularity of multitools or the multiple ways screwdrivers are used, they are usually near to hand. Experience will teach you to work with anything, but you will always have your preferences.
If you get wrapped up in the gear youll always be chasing the upgrade. If you focus on your experience what you want, need or what is worth the expense become super evident. Agree with you Dave.
I just talked myself out of buying a $90 mora garberg for this very reason. Thanks for sharing.
The 10 dollar ones do the same thing for sure.
30(or is it 40) $$ jääkäripuukko does the same for half the price. i have 140, will buy 110 and skrama too. Not willing to pay those crazy prices for tools i'll use in field. maybe for shelf queens, but tool? nope, not me.
@MacTehKnife if I needed anything that goes beyond what one does I use a hatchet or an axe, don't need to baton every knife in the world,never needed to in the last 30 years never will. Knives do knife jobs, anything else use the right tool.
(4) $ 12.00 Moras vs. (1) 90.00.
I suggest the (4) ...So that is a Mora in each vehicle, house and garage.
Same for headlamps and gloves.
3 is 2 is 1 is none etc.
Oh yeah...wool wins .:)
Victorinox now has a fixed blade for $200!!! Looks like a Garberg, which performs very much like a $20 Mora. Marketing ploys my friend, nothing more. Save your money and do your research.
Thanks for the great video, this goes right along with the direction I am going to take my business over the next year.
Thank you for putting this video out, I have been a Long time viewer, I would love to attend one of your classes, but North Dakota is a long way from any of your locations.
I don't much care what people think of me these days. I walk the neighborhoods here in Southern California and often discover that a local has placed various tools out by the curb. I have picked up several shovels, post hole digger, hand tools and other sundry items. Very usable shape, I picked up a sledge hammer which needed the handle replaced, cheap, easy and quick fix. Reduce, reuse, recycle. Save money and equip yourself. Excellent video, thanks.
I agree man. I still use a lot of the outdoors, woodworking and metal working tools my dad bought when I was kid, from the hardware store.
THANK YOU for this vid. I'm sick of the 'I'll pay anything for the best' attitude as it has driven the prices to unaffordable heights. Before camping became 'bushcrafting' I was able to get all the proper equipment I needed to be safe and have an awesome outdoor experience. Now I can't even afford the inflated shipping. I am a CAMPER (not a bushcrafter) no matter how many spoons I carve. Camping used to be abt the outdoors, now it is all abt the gear. I'm so not cool cuz I don't have a titanium cook set. Hell, I cant even buy the awesome Canteen Set cuz I missed the incredible $50ish sale a year ago by ONE day. Lol. Great vids, great products but best of all, sharing your great KNOWLEDGE. Thanks Dave, be Blessed in all good things.
Dave you’ve got some pair of mitts on you bud!! Keep the videos coming, thank you!!
Excellent video. I was taught about tools in the 1950s and 60s. What I have seen over the years is that many tools newer than the 1970s have issues with their steel quality. I prefer the older tools. Add a "D" handle to the shovel. It shows barely any wear. Good Luck, Rick
I absolutely agree. As long as a tool is sharp/properly maintained, doesn't give you blisters, and holds up, for the most part, it will do whatever you ask of it. In any hobby/niche you'll have people that get really in technicalities and have to have the best, most expensive gear, but that's almost never necessary. For example, I've seen entire forums on compost where people discuss moisture levels, ratios of yard waste and food waste, pH, etc, when in reality if you throw your yard waste and food scraps in a pile and forget about it for a year or two, you'll still have compost
Watching your video, which I am wholeheartedly in agreement with, I was reminded of the first time I encountered a $500.00 fishing rod and a $300.00 reel at a local outdoor show. I was so stunned that I blurted out to the sales clerk that "My grandpa would wup me within an inch of my life If I came home with that outfit", especially since I had been catching trout and bass with the closed face Zebco he had bought me one year for Christmas. I love my Hults Bruk Kisa, a gift, but I use my Fiskars "splitting" axe 75% more when around camp. Oh well, isn't it grand being an American. Thanks Dave for reminding us what's really important.
My shovel that stays in my pickup bed year round is a square nose that I broke the handle on. I cut the handle off at the break and cut the blade back to match and sharpened it on the end and one side. Works like a champ.
Exellent video Dave!
This is something that needed to be said by an industry leader.
You dont need to buy into the "Gearhead" culture to get out in the woods.
Honestly those who are forced to improvise because of monetary limitations tend to learn alot more in the long run.
I have sold Finnish and Swedish collared axes for a hell of alot more than a common boys axe and as awesome as they may be, the common boys axe whether vintage American or a current Council tool, they will accomplish the same end goal without a hell of alot of difference.
If you can afford cool gear, that's great, but if you have modest means that shouldn't stop you from doing.
I started from very humble means and I have gained a hell of alot more knowledge and skill from it than if I simply purchased all of the tools I wanted.
The axe story reminds me of TH-camr Doug Linker talking (he actually did a video on it) about, as a teen, he scraped up and scrimped and saved and finally bought that expensive scandinavian axe ," Cause he was going get through the cutting process so much more efficiently than with his el cheapo." It didn`t happen..
Looking forward to learning a lot about your outdoor channel so I can apply it on mine I’m starting to get into hunting and trapping and Bush craft a little more
Great point brother, i have not heard anyone talk about this in the outdoor community at all, well for quite a while. On my channel and what i am about is price to performance ratio, if an item performs for its value and features set compared to other items, I go for it.
There’s actually a lot of tools harbor freight is selling that do just as well or better than like snapon.
Honest guy.. that how a man speaks .. bravo !!
Always good to have reminder videos to keep ourselves in check with regards to a blend of cost effectiveness and fit for purpose... that said, I haven't exactly mastered this approach yet as I always seem to self justify that really expensive item in my own mind lol
This is A1 info ive gathered a bunch of old Hytest axe heads and some swedish ones also. A lot of work to rehandle and revive them but can't beat old tools for cheap.
Nice rant my friend. I grew up poor and we had tools to get the job done. I grew up and got a job and not until then I got to buy quality tools. I still use the cheep tools and they still get the job done for me. A Lot of my cheap tools are old tools and i fill they was made better than some of today's tool. Always nice to hear this kind of stuff from a man that has made a name for him self and can have about what ever he wants
Dave, you're looking great man! As always such a great informative video
I've learned a lot from you Dave. Thanks brother
For me Dave I love buying used tools. I too get a new one now and then but something about buying a quality old one and saving a few bucks. It's also nice to have to fix some of the used ones and look at the end result as you use it. Ray, Millbank Bags USA
that was a much-needed video, for me. I'm glad you made this video
Exactly. I have Gransfors and Wetterlings etc but I have an old axe that I got at the jockey lot for just a few dollars that has no name on it but I cleaned it up and sharpened it and wow what a great axe it turned out to be. It’s more about the tool that you carry between your ears than the tools that you carry in your hands.
I waited 2 years to order a Silky. I have things sitting in my "list" on Amazon for 6 months to a year. I have patience for the things i "want".
waited 2 years to decide on my long range rifle . researched bullet drop, kinetic energy , recoil, availability of aftermarket upgrades etc . finally decided on remington 700 in 25 06 havent regretted the choice in the 6 years ive owned it.
TheOldGunsmith58 I have a Ruger 77 in 25-06. Thing is a tack driver and since I reload for it I use 30-06 brass that I have tons of. Great round for sure.
$30 to $40 for a Silky saw is a no-brainer. They outperform and outclass every saw out there. I'd LOVE to meet someone who bought and used a Silky (properly, they do require a different technique) but claimed it was no better than their el cheapo xyz brand...they'd be lying! It's worth the money in a way that few things are these days. Does the $500 knife perform 10 times better than the $50 knife? Bet not. Unless you have the money for such things, then knock yourself out and enjoy!
Me too, I bought a cheap corona from lowes to get me through while I waited though to make sure that type of saw was for me. But i truly love my silky :)
@@TheOldGunsmith58 I like the .280 myself, but 25-06 is a nice round.👍👍
some of my tools are old as dirt some are brand new ,I Judge all my tools and equipment by performance not price . Good Video Thank you for sharing.
Dave,
You always impress! Thank you for what you do.
I prefer my cheap Corona saw over the far more expensive silkies etc. it sure does the job and fast
Mr Canterbury you sir are a true sage
Rant on Dave. Good video. And so true, I have a Plumb belt axe that I use. Would not part with it. Bought it used for around $20. The belt axe and my PFK wildcat knife are all I need. By the way, after watching another of your video’s, I just ordered a Tentsmiths 8’x8’ oilskin tarp. Thanks for all you do Dave.
thanks for bringing it back Dave!
Great video Dave, why I have so much SRO gear you don't try to re-invent the wheel. Your gear is well made, gets the job done at a good price. My friends are amazed at times when I break out a piece of SRO kit and they like it and I tell them what it cost!!!! SRO gear is hard to beat!!!!!!
Thank you sir for exposing a fallacy of thought in not only the bushcraft community, but the prep'n survival community aswell. A lot of folks just want to get out and have fun, or have a hobby and can only afford what they can, and often get shamed by others in the community.
I have a little store in a flea market in Houston selling different gear...some military surplus, some not. I put together a Bushcraft tool kit starter pack using a military battering ram carrier. I added a shorty shovel, a small ax, a small bow saw and a 12" machete + around 40 feet of Paracord. There's room to add more but I figure it's a decent start on a Bushcraft tool kit for $40. None of the tools are top of the line because like I said..it's a place for someone to start.
I really appreciate your thoughts in this video! Thank you!
Thank you for the great tips. New subscriber. I appreciate the honesty.
Good video. If they will just look at what some of the Outdoor legends carried, their equipment was very little and not expensive.
Fantastic video! I think in today’s world of keeping up with the Joneses, we sometimes go a bit overboard on what we actually need. I sometimes sure have. Thanks for the video, it will give a refreshing perspective and get more people (me) out there enjoying what we have!! Keep it up!!
You did a video series called Bullet proof bushcraft on a budget years ago and I got an old hickory knife based off that. I've never justified replacing it other than it's 7" long and I'm waiting for the release of their 5" version.
You can score good at flea markets, pawn shops, resale shops, garage sales, you never know what you’ll find if you don’t look. Good talk!
Speaking of care, many get hung up on the "care" of a tool. all three these tools show are not "cared" for, yet, they are functioning very well. OCD gets the better part of many, shiny pots(can't have a sooty bush pot), tools that are hardly used, extra time spent polishing, to the degree that is often unnecessary. The axe show in an excellent example,
I agree, my hunting knife is a 35 yr old Air Force survival knife and it's dressed many deer and still going strong.
Hey Dave! I appreciate you doing these videos. I've learned so much from you over the years. You inspire me my friend. Keep up your amazing work =]
Well when I was a kid , Rambo and crocodile Dundee changed my life and when I was 9 my uncle said all my knives where crap cause they where not USA made. I lived by this motto for almost 30 years , back then I saved up for a case xx usmc knife, cut the finger guard off and I was ready for anything the woods could throw at me. Then I had a son who is 8 now and I bought name brand made over seas so if he broke it or bit out the blade or bent from throwing or hitting a rock it wouldn’t bother me. God forbid he touched one of my high end custom knives.
So I bought him and me a cheap overseas little steel based off the 10 C’s and literally there is not much difference and I was wowed by there performance.
Most noticeable Taiwan, and Japan I was very impressed.
Thanks Mr. Canterbury great video
Really appreciated this video, Dave! Thanks for sharing!
I have hand tools like axes, mauls, shovels and saws that are now forty years old and still holding up great. Get the job done.
Excellent Video As Always. 💯👍👍😎
Great point, Mr. Canerbury. I'd also add the recommendation to not talk down on people for having less expensive gear than you. I see this all the time, online, where people get crapped on because they carry a $20 folding knife, or whatever.
My fave 1 handed hatchet made by Gerber. Everyone says it's garbage but I tested cut a 4 inch tree with it and turned said tree into fire wood and sharpened parts for stakes while driving it with the hatchet. We did a test run and when there done choping my shelter is half way up. I don't know how big of a tree it will cut but it stays in my hiking bag and hope I don't need but its there
Lots of snobbery out there...there was a time Gerber was US made and was among the best you could buy. Owned by Fiskars now, I think, so that hatchet is probably Swiss steel...and that's good!
@@asmith7876 yeah not sure but its a keeper in my pack and will only get retired when it breaks or I find one better
I almost committed on the shovel video but decided to hold of . It is like you say as fare as tools go old does not mean not good in most cases it means better. At 76 I am still using my grand dad's shovel and he passed at 104 fly fishing next to me.I still use all of his stuff even the large tents tents . That shovel is so thin now it's hard to be leave it has not broken. Here in California in the Sierras you are hard pressed to find dirt it's nothing but granite it's hard life here for a shovel . As to your gear going with no care the care aspect should be one of the things you focus on in your classes no reason students can't take care of that gear I know it's not what they want to do but it is part of the learning experience and was # one in my growing up care took priority over most everything . Those 100 year old tents get retreated every 3 years like clock work all the leather gets treated every year at thanksgiving when everyone is around it has been like that since I could walk . Stay safe and Happy trails Great common since Video keep them coming.
Pretty pumped there Dave, looking good. You are an inspiration to a 62 year old.
Thank you brother
Had to comment Dave... No Matter which product I buy, I want something that is made well and will not fail. Problem is, most Quality products are more expensive. Im glad that I have a love for old things.... Pretty or a name brand won't save Your ass.... Dependability is where it's at for Me.... My Gransfors hatchet was 190 bucks....a five dollar yard sale hatchet will do everything My hatchet will... Not as perfectly but just as dependable if not more... Great video!
Thanks for the video Dave. I understand exactly what you are saying. Speaking of shovels, do you sharpen yours? I didn't for most of my life. I know you are in south central Ohio, which is a lot like here in WV you won't dig much with hitting a lot of roots vines and such. Run that shovel across the belt sander a couple times and you will see a big difference, believe me.
I agree and have another agrument that became relevant for me: Cheap stuff is like Silvester Stallone - expendable. If I am in the woods at night I tend to lose stuff. If you train in adverse conditions you might have more wear on equipment. I have a lot of high quality knives and gear - but Mora knives, cheap noname folding garden saws, Victoinox knives and Big lighters I have always on hand.
The Mora knive: Great tool, I have at least half a dozen lying around, in the car, in every back pack etc. No need to treat with care. Go and break one or 2, that way you lern how far you can go with them. You can sheath it being dirty/bloody if need be and soak it in warm soap water at home.
The cheap folding saws: I do things with them I would not like to do with an expensive version, like cutting wood full of tree gum, cutting wood that is under tension and might pinch the blade, letting kids/drunk guys use it, using it with 2 hands with speed and pressure risking damage etc.
If gear is to expensive to train with that is a problem.
Thank you dave
. . . the best tools I've found on the cheap are at yard sales and craigslist. It's fun finding them. Especially if you're a tool junkie.
If u got a dead lighter Dave take metal guard off and use both hands and push gas down wit finger hold it down while u turn wheel and will get a tiny flame and a dead lighter can do that for nearly 50 more lights. Idk I find it useful to know so thought I'd share. Godbless
I scored a free tarp from from harbor freight with a coupon, and a $2 blanket from the thrift store. Of course these would be sub par for actual camping, but, I have everything I need to at least practice my skills until I can afford adequate gear.
"And if you try sometimes, you'll find, you get what you need."
You can’t always get what you want!
One of the best hatches I have cost less than 30 bucks. I haven't replaced it in 3 years of use because the more expensives brands are not the increase-in-cost better, than this cheap-o one. Does the job very well and until I find one that's performance is worth the price increase, i'm sticking with it.
Lots of respect for doing that video when you could have spend 10min trying to sell us something as most shop owner would have done!
I do those videos as well, something has to support my family, but there is always room for lessons and teaching among the rest-
@@DavidCanterbury That was my point Dave and I totally understand that you have to promote your shop items to feed the love ones! I was probably not very clear as english in not my main language. I just wanted to say that rare are the shop owners that take precious time to show us alternative options and how to think regarding a desire item. You've done it multiple times on your channel over the time I've sub and for that, I raise my hat up high for you!
Very honest and good video brother.
Thank you.
Anyone else have experience with the Pete Rickards pack baskets? They're the same baskets you can buy from Duluth Pack and I believe Frost River but they're significantly cheaper come straight from the manufacturer.
Dave has a point. Generally get the best you can as a durable product you will have for decades. But the highest dollar item will last as long as a lower cost item if you are not making daily use of it, that is cost effectiveness.
A mechanic needs tools that will not easily fail with 8 hour a day use 5 to 7 days a week. If it fails the job is delayed which means not getting money from the next job in the line, it will go to someone else. Also not delivering on time means in the future the customer will go somewhere else. So expensive tools make money.
Craftsman tools? I have not only them but Powerkraft tools bought from Montgomery Wards in the early 70's still in use for my personal vehicles. Cost effective for me.
Dave you're awesome keep up the good work my man.
Awesome video Dave . Reminds me some of your older ones . God bless pal