I also carry a small axe on my belt. Someone once said "A man in the woods with a knife will live well. A man in the woods with an axe will live like a king."
In September of 1980 I was in Norway participating in the NATO Exercises. We (USMC) were making war games with British Commandos and the Norwegian Army. I was assigned to a Recon patrol with 2 other Guys, looking for possible LZ’s and such, out five to ten miles ahead of the battalion... anyway, what we did at night was stake down three corners of our poncho (flat) and slip the sleeping bag under. Then pull the fourth corner over your head. Very low profile. It got down to 25 degrees most nights, but this seemed to work very well for staying warm. No blow-up mattress, but I believe it’s similar to what you’re describing.
During what season? 25 degrees at night sleeping on the bare ground with only cover on top seems like a recipe for a very uncomfortable night if not hypothermia. The earth is going to sap the heat from your body. Did you put nothing to create air pockets below you? Boughs? Anything?
@@toferj7441 many military guys carry a little foam mat that goes under your bed / moisture & temp barrier. Its just part of your gear and just rolls up tight.
@@toferj7441 We were there in September. And they said they were having a heatwave.... never got above 49 degrees Fahrenheit. I don’t remember doing anything to the ground (leave no sign). No leaves or grass or anything. But we did lie under small bushes and out-of-the-way spots. Never got too cold. And never too much condensation. Although some mornings the poncho was frozen stiff
Dan, Answering your mat request...This could be a long one.. I rarely post my opinions but I have enjoyed advice from your channel since Alone. So I hoped that maybe I could help you out for a change.... I Hunt camp, fish camp, cot camp, weekend tent camp, minimalist camp, hammock camp, and section hike camp... I genuinely have had and used at least 12 or more sleeping mats. The best mat I've had and best nights sleep i got at a base camp, was on a Cabelas Elk Camp self inflating mat. I believe it was made by Thermarest. And a Northface 0 degree bag. I never should have got rid of that setup... Currently I use an Exped Multimat as a base, and depending on the situation an inflatable mat on top of that. The Exped Multimat is awesome! It has been on the AT with me and every camping trip in between. Sit on it, kneel on it, sleep on it. It works as an under quilt and or liner for my hammocks as well,...Dries in a few minutes if it gets wet and its light... So now inflatable mats. You look like a pretty big guy and if you don't mind carrying slightly heavier weights, then I would look at the Exped line of mats. They are durable and I have had extremely good luck with their stuff.. If your concern is ultralight, ultra compact + serious winter camping then the Thermarest Xtherm is the way to go. Very versatile in my opinion. (Very very noisy and more delicate compared to some of the Exped stuff though). My top quilts are either a Big Agnes 40 deg or Feathered Friends 20 deg down bag just opened up. Hope this helps.
Additionally, there always seems to be Soldier who has forgotten their gloves. They can not shoot if they cannot move/feel their fingers so I carry a few extras to help out
I'm in a hammock 100 percent of the time. Physical disabilities & pain are my main reason I can't sleep on the ground. But, I'm going to try a pad instead of an underquilt this year. I have Rothco foam pad with mylar on one side & a Klymit insulated static V which will both work well with my 2 layer Warbonnet ElDorado. I also have a OneTigris Ultralight 3 season quilt that I am loving. However, it appears to be sold out & OneTigris does not always bring things back. It might be a one time run. If you want to try a synthetic quilt, check out Cedar Ridge Outdoors UP synthetic quilts. They are on par with the quality of Hammock Gear's down quilts. Best wishes Bro.
Another great video! I’m really enjoying your channel. U have a positive attitude, good intentions and the Bushcraft mindset. We’re listening Coalcracker. 😁👍👍
Great video man. I’m a huge fan of sleep pad and my top quilt under a tarp! Fan of Big Agnes, they make 3-4” thick pads that pack down really small, rugged and easy to inflate! Check em out
I use a closed cell foam shooting mat as my ground tarp and a wool blanket because whenever im in the hills I am shooting as well. Up in the rocky mountains this set up only works in the summer , during spring I add a poofy top and poofy bottom with a thin shell to block the wind, also no tent just a poncho. Hope this helps , take care and thank you
First sensible comment I've read regarding sleeping on the ground. You must have something underneath you or the earth will sap your body heat. Noting that the lightweight less bulky option is only really viable during the summer months is spot on.
As another Woodsman said: "the more you know, the less you need"! Ya'll are overlooking tech; how 'bout, having a drone fly in your beer, food or a wheeled drone that follows you like a dog! It is already here, I'm certain Special Ops are using them right now! It won't be long!
I've done the minimum bedroles on overnights. Soom good, some liked to have killed me by morning. Now for the most part, I use a 5'x7' tarp, an inflatable mat w/built in pillow and an inflatable pillow I picked up from Outdoor Vitals. My wife made a slip bag out of polar fleece to put my air mat and pillow in. Makes it real nice! As for what I cover up with, that depends on the temp for that night. Being 55, I have gotten to that point to where I need that little extra under me. If I'm out for just a night or 2, that's what I generally use. On a side note, something that always goes with me, is a role of electrical tape. 2 reasons. It works great if you get injured to the point that you need a tourniquet. It doesn't pinch the skin like a cord or a belt does. The other is, if you have to unexpectedly build a shelter real fast, you can use it instead of rope. If you leave out the first few inches of the tape before you wrap it, you can even tie it.
I'm out here rocking a spinal cord injury doing this stuff. A couple months ago I dropped a sub special video where I used a woobie and a wool blanket below freezing. Stayed warm enough that night. Love your content man! Always a great video!
If you have a ground tarp to go under the insulation mat, then just add insulation underneath the ground mat. For example, springy branches with dry leaves or grasses, moss, whatever, interspersed throughout the branches. This would provide both a mild amount of cushion and better insulation. Put the ground tarp on top of that to help smooth out any bumps or sharp twig ends, put the sleeping mat on top of that, then yourself and finally the quilt. Just make sure your base layer of branches is distinctly wider than the mat, and a little higher around the far edges of it, so that it holds it in place like the walls of a nest. Last thing you want is for your sleeping pad to slip out from underneath you on a cold night!
I have an Amok hammock which uses an inflatable pad as support and I use components of my MSS adjusted to season instead of a top quilt. That and a tarp takes me just about anywhere because I can drop it to the ground like a bivvy if necessary. I got a gathered end hammock now, too, but no quilts or experience in it yet. Thanks for the update, Danno! I hope the Coalcrackers all stay well.
I've mostly done backpacking hiking and bikepacking. Laying down miles. Started watching these bushcraft videos and I'm thinking of trying it out. It definitely seems to be more about being in the woods as opposed to traveling through them.
Love it! Nothing too much, use-based, and not too high tech. Thank you! The bit of experience I have with your suggested sleeping arrangement tells me that it is definitely necessary to have a ground blanket (like what you showed) underneath the self inflating isolation! These self-inflating things are so easily pierced by sticks or stones … I’d love to have more robust versions of them!
The sweet spot. Has to be learned and earned with dirt time or woods time. Being a former BSA in the 60 and 70s and both a Cold War Vet and then a 1700s Reenactor my views on what kit should do is similar, but what I use is different. Essentially your saying what Mors Kochanski used to say regarding the sweet spot, or as he called it the State of neither nor. Neither too much nor too little, neither to heavy nor to light, neither to long nor to short, regarding what we want to accomplish. I luv your vids because I have a chance to look at another perspective and approach by someone with decades of experience. For most of my day trips I run an old BSA canvas patrol pack which includes a hammock. For a hike or a scout of a new area I use a military harness and belt system spray painted medium and dark brown with tan highlights, which includes a buttpack. For overnight camping a medium ALICE. For winter and weekend camping a large ALICE pack. What’s nice is that both ALICE packs fit the same frame. My Milice kit has a medium size shot bag with jerk, tea, small cooking vessel, and skin. And my tumpline carries blanket roll with anything else. I wear my Capote and tuque.
small inflatable pads can be a great lightweight option. One consideration, are the temperatures you will be using it in. If it is warm in the summer, that it will suit you just fine, but as soon as temperatures drop, you may be more comfortable in a pad that is insulated, it adds just a little bulk and a little weight, but it is very nice when it gets 'nippy'. I have a small insulated pad that I have taken everywhere, at this point it doesn't leave my bag, I don't mind the extra weight, as they are light enough. Just a opinion from a Utah outdoorsman.
Nice one! Wish I could stay in the woods 😜 I like your rubber ground sheath. What is it made of and where can you get it? Thanks and stay safe! Cheers, Martin 🤜🏼🤛🏼
I drift around North America the vast majority of the year. And, the vast majority of those nights are spent either on natural earth, or man made surfaces. I travel light, so some kind of ground insulation and something to cover myself up with is usually how I sleep, barring inclement weather. My body temperature at night must run a bit higher than normal, because I’ve heard people complain about being cold, if their choice of ground cover is thin, and doesn’t insulate well. For myself, unless it’s approaching freezing, on earth i use a canvas tarp or blanket that I double over. I’ll throw plastic sheeting/vinyl tarp under that if it’s wet. When it’s extremely cold (and I’m talking northern Idaho cold) I use a cheap foam pad, the kind someone may use for yoga, around a centimeter thick. In civilization, if don’t have that, I’ll use two or three layers of cardboard, or preferably styrofoam. In the bush, a pile of leaves and/or straw works well. I cover up with wool, or a wool blend. I know people swear that wool insulates when wet, but I sure as hell have never known it too... lol. It does seem a bit warmer than synthetic, but if I have to use a wool blend, or even 100 percent 100 percent synthetic blanket(s), I’m not bummed at all. When it gets down into the double digit negative numbers, I rely on my clothing, and either a couple of extra blankets or a sleeping bag if I have one and have managed to not destroy it. I’ve very very rarely had an uncomfortable night.
I do Civil War reenacting as a Union soldier. Already got a gum blanket. Have slept out in the woods in Virginia just on my gum blanket with wool blanket over me.
Thanks for you video's. Here is my sleep system with the weights. Disclaimer: This is a very light system that I use. Ground cloth - Tyvek. weights about 2 oz. Air mattress: Therm-a-Rest Neo Air Lite - Full size 16oz, Pillow: Sea to Summit Ultra Light 2.1 oz, Quilt: Enlightened Equipment Revelation 10 degree 19.18 oz. If the weather is really cold, Therm-a-Rest Neo Air X Therm has an R rating of over 4.6 is 17 oz Total weight of the sleep system is 39.28 oz Just under 2.5 pounds. Once again, this is expensive but it's an easy carry. Skillet
You lost me at the $400 backpack... I feel like one of the best things about bushcraft is the affordability. Id come to the point where I have to make multiple trips carrying gear out to the woods so a backpack was in order. Picked up an old mil surp pack that looks from ww2 think I’ll stick with that
Same. I'm one of the hard headed guys that still refuses to give up my ALICE pack (with frame of course). And speaking of, while I have tried some of the commercial "sleep systems", I prefer a mil surp "sleep mat" (cheap, very durable and yet still fairly light weight0 and of course a mil surp sleeping bag system.
Sir, I would never carry my "Leatherman" in a pack! Always carry it on your belt. It was my go-to when I was in the Army & ever since. That's my 2 cents worth. 😁😁😁😁
I've done many field training exercises in warmer regions using nothing other than a closed cell mat and my woobie to sleep in. When the temperatures were cooler, I have noticed that just a closed foam mat has not done much for me to keep the ground from sapping the warmth from me.
Lucas Smalles My nephew, who is a US Army Ranger, Air assualt, Airborne, Pathfinder and Sniper instructor swears by his woobie. Thank you for your service. MMC(SS) USN Ret.
I just used my top quilt and a Klymit insulated inflatable pad last night, so I am glad I just watched this video. I generally prefer a hammock, but when I take my dog I use a sleep pad and overquilt. The insulated pad and top quilt combo works great for me. I use a lightweight poncho for my ground tarp/rain gear to protect the pad because the pads are just so damned expensive when they are insulated and I really don't want a hole in mine. Also, wear something on your head like a shamagh or wool hat and use a pillow that is comfortable enough to give you less reason to move in your sleep as the quilt and pad will give you some cold spots if you move around a lot in your sleep. All in all, I am never going back to a bag (for now), but I still love a wool blankie every now and again. Happy trails and may your beard touch your toes.
Inflatable mat and overquilt can work, but the R rating of the mat becomes super important. Encapsulating both in a breathable bivi is pretty sweet, and probably adds a season to the set up (protects the mat too).
I essentially live out of my bag and only adjust it in the later colder months. Main knife 🔪 multi tool 🔧, gumboi saw🪚 , speznaz shovel🪓, sharpening stone🪨, pathfinder canteen set🧃, small titanium cup☕️, plashplaka tarp/blanket, main tarp, wool blanket, bug net, hammock and , ultralight bivy, clothes, fire kits, sewing needles and thread 🧵 🪡, battery pack that has flash light, small folding solar panel, 1 bar of soap, tooth brush, gloves, fishing line and hooks, couple other odds and ends.. little food, salt, spork. Snugpak jungle bag 36lbs, I add a quilt and swap to a big sleeping bag for winter which brings me to just over 41lb I tend to carry a bit extra warmth as it can get cold up here in Canada at night. Definitely helps to have a good quality bag
I love your videos, but holy crap, $400 USD for a 23L (cotton twill) pack? I'm not trying to be a d*ck, but you can get a high-quality similarly sized pack at a third (or less) of the price made with more durable materials that don't need regular maintenance.
Interesting and I kinda like your take on stuff. I would maintain that it's irresponsible to use blades in a remote environment without making good provision for the cleaning and dressing of wounds though. What if that rag gets dirty? When I sleep outside I use my inflatable mat and an over quilt with bivvy bag.
Wow so I’ve always wanted one of those journeyman packs. Finally ready to buy one and just got the email saying they’re restocked. However, despite them saying this is one of their USA designs that will stay USA made, they are now imported! Not only that they’ve racked on an additional 100$ bringing it up to 400$ now! Thats rediculous. They also changed the design of the interior pockets And that folks is how u turn a good product into shite overnight.
How many days are you going out for with this load out? This looks like a day pack. I'm a backpacker. I've done 50 mile stretches on the AT for a week or more at a time. You've got no food in that bag, no sleep gear, no water filter, no first aid. Also that school bag looking backpack has no hip belt to help distribute weight while hiking. What is the base weight of your pack? A hammock, a top quilt and under quilt are bulky and would take more space than that little bag will hold. I've never seen you do anything that doesn't look like an infomercial. Do you have any videos where you're hiking 10+ miles a day for a week? That's the kind of trip I do. My base weight on my pack is between 18 and 23 lbs. It doesn't look like you have enough water. How many miles will it be between places where you can filter water? I carry 2 to 3 liters of water for drinking and cooking and often need to stop along the way to filter and replenish water I've drunk along the way. That small steel (read: heavy) water bottle won't hold enough for you to make it 10 or 12 miles of hard hiking in a day. Running out of water during a hike is a serious issue. I've made the mistake of running out of water before I reached my next water source because I was trying to carry less, and I misread my map as to where the next water source would be. Let me tell you, that's no fun at all. This happened on a 48 mile thru hike in the heat of summer in Arkansas. I thought I was going to die. I'm saying all of this because I'm calling BS on your loadout. Unless you're just going out a few miles from your vehicle where you'll have a water source, then your loadout here seems designed to sell products and not actually go on a backpacking trip. 🤷🏽♂️
I like to LIVE in the woods I carry a giant snail pack Would you make a video for a full timer on the move? Anothr guy I watch is returning to highlander roots and only carries the traditional roll with equipment used by shepherds and such in 17th century Scotland I’m curious if you are interested in talking about tradish equipment And I’m very curious to try wool blankets Because in my travels my basic bag has always been >camping pack >first aid >blanket >lighters >sleeping bag >sweater >coat >knife Everything else was extra And I’ve become aware that I got the attitude but not the skills and because of it I often stick to the fringes of the nearest town
Learned this a few decades back..a woobie and a military grade poncho..since then I added a very thin and lightweight nylon ground cloth which was waterproofed...I lay those three, flat against my back, inside my pack. The haversack I have is another very light nylon "fold inside itself" type bags..very cheap. Lasted many years for the same as you...food packed in, trash packed out..G.P. otherwise. Good video, thanks brother.
Small. Little. And then you have small-little. I'm curious. Is small bigger than little. And then is small-little even smaller than both of them. Maybe some other time, we can discuss little-tiny. And, of course big-huge. Keep it packed, man, and keep breathin'.
Bugnet hammock and a cheap 8x10 poly tarp is my go-to. I use the hammock as a bivy inside a tarp tent configuration most of the time. Folding thermarest on the ground and a cheap sleeping bag. Cost $120. Although I need to upgrade the sleeping bag.
I enjoy your videos however obviously you are not traveling far if that is your pack and you are carrying beer. I guess everyone has their perspective of traditional bushcraft. I prefer backpacking out into the wilderness 4-8+ miles with my gear which typically weighs roughly around 40 lbs. You may want to consider trying it sometime. Anybody can jump out their vehicle with heavy gear but hoofing it is another story.
Your honesty is outstanding. I would love to check out some Filson gear, but damn is it expensive. Christmas is coming though. :) Great video. Keep it up my man. Prost, from CT.
sry, but filson really is not an option. for a pack of that size, my personal maximum ist 300 bucks (with most people i know calling me crazy even for that). that pack of yours is almost double that. is it that much better than my frosrtiver summit ex? i don't know, could of course be, but i doubt it.
I dont know. Perhaps I am wrong. My build is a lot different. First I never carry 2 bags. Second I am not going in the woods without a saw or an axe. Knife for me is for the carving work. Theres a lot more. I guess the survival expert here knows better...
Thanks for the video and all kits are subject to personalization to needs and environmental conditions. Short hikes and scouts, basic kits that create micro climate, obtain water, and create fire are more than enough for overnight. Having food is a bonus!!!!
I use a ground mat and over quilt, and wouldnt do anything else. I use a DIY quilt with 5oz climashield insulation, very easy to make for under $80. I never use inflatable pads unless it's winter, military thermarest foam pads cut to torso is prefered for width and I use it as my backpack's frame. best part about quilts is you can wrap yourself in a wool blanket and put the quilt on top. if you DIY a quilt, i'd recommend doing a closed foot box, unless it's a summer quilt that you want to turn into a blanket at some point, which i havnt found the need, sinch footboxes have an air gap that chills the feet.
If your going to sleep on the ground ,you might as well be sleeping in a hammock. No rocks, roots, uneven ground. I've found the Walmart hammock to be as good as the expensive ones.
Love your videos, but I have a bone to pick with you. Tourniquet. Only if you’re out for a long time? That makes no sense. If you need a tourniquet, even 5 minutes into your adventure, you need it immediately or you’re dead. Many folks listen to your advice. This advice is horrible and could kill. Cheers!
I have my get home bag. But I need to do an inventory. I have too much good stuff in there. I could probably make two bags. One always stays in my jeep. The other In my pick up. My wife gave me a wind up flashlight. I thought it was funny. My truck broke down in a Tennessee dark winding road. It came in handy . I never laugh at my wife's gifts again.oh a wind up radio too.
Now you got me wondering what's in the mistery bag! The smaller sack you showed but did not got to empty. What's in it if I may ask? And what was it called again? In the Netherlands I never heard of it. Thanx for all the rest!
9:16 no adding a tourniquet is not a good idea. What is with yanks and tourniquets. Any proper medical professional will tell you they've never used one. My first aid course trainer was a paramedic for 17years and now teaches them along with first aiders. She's only used a tourniquet on a shark victim where he had a whole limb chomped off.
Dunno bout inflation, but under an over on straight bedroll guard mat works good in Canadian and WNY winter. So I’d try yer low under an high under come fall, see how you fare. Hell, fern bedding works good as a mat.
Is there a way to attach a sleeping bag & a thermarest sleeping pad underneath the pack ? Not that I can afford a Filson anything ! P.S. I have to have coffee to live ! I can go without food, but not coffee.
In summer i have done well with an uninsulated ground pad with my snugpak jungle blanket here in the blue ridge mountains. In winter an insulated ground pad and quilt work well. In Montana elk hunting teepee with insulated ground pad jungle blanket over the ground pad for extra insulation from the ground a down quilt over another synthetic quilt made it through -11 F
Band-Aids are not first aid unless you crash your bike and someone has to call your mommy. I carry first aid for things that can kill you, like when your axe takes flight and is stopped by your knee.
Hi there I wonder if you can help please I have being enjoying bushcraft for a number of years and all was well untill 2020 came and the virus got me, now like many survivors it came with a price, a reduced lung capacity and with that less stamina, I will like to sort out a light pack for people like me or those who maybe seniors or small frame people ,any suggestion will be welcome and if you got a video or planning one on this surely like me many others will be greatefull to you
I like your videos but you’re a fool if you don’t carry some kind of first aid equipment with you. Just my opinion. It’s not manly or brave to be ill-prepared.
I have rode across our country a few times I am a fan of pockets if it was pocket size it went in a pocket I would park 2 tires on the edge of the tarp pull tarp up and over motor cycle stake the opposite two corners down instant shelter frog togs make excellent durable 70-80 mph and dry good for 3-4 years on a motorcycle weather always gets worse
Belt pouch...dependable fire starters, hand full of ammo, cord in case you lose your pack. If you lose your belt you're dead anyway. Your vids have always been on point.
Hey, would love to see that bedroll bag loaded with your hammock gear and attached to your backpack. We often do the weekend scout camping and I’ve gotten us down to basically just backpacks. Would love to see your weekend setup. Thank you as always for what you do!
Tyvek can be noisy at first but its a good ground mat and can be used in a pinch as a tarp. Super light weight and occasionally you can bum a piece off of a work site for free
I don’t sleep on the ground, so no comments about that, but I can get 8 or 9 beers and food in my haversack! Beer is probably the only reason I even tote a haversack! Ha ha ha! Cheers!
There is no way you need all this shit for just goin in the woods these people make goin in the woods way too complicated every time you go in the woods you don’t need a kit lol like what is the fantasy behind what will happen to you that you would need all this in a pinch lol
For anyone who doesn’t know he did mention a tourniquet and this is a last resort measure it’s gonna hurt like hell and can cause serious damage it can save your life but only use it if you absolutely need to
I also carry a small axe on my belt. Someone once said "A man in the woods with a knife will live well. A man in the woods with an axe will live like a king."
You can't drink an axe. 🤦🏽♂️
@@toferj7441 lmao
I cary 3 knifes and a gun/ cold steel shovel.
I carry what I carry. I do okay... Lol
Makes no sense, but hey if it helps your mental power, more to you!
In September of 1980 I was in Norway participating in the NATO Exercises. We (USMC) were making war games with British Commandos and the Norwegian Army. I was assigned to a Recon patrol with 2 other Guys, looking for possible LZ’s and such, out five to ten miles ahead of the battalion... anyway, what we did at night was stake down three corners of our poncho (flat) and slip the sleeping bag under. Then pull the fourth corner over your head. Very low profile.
It got down to 25 degrees most nights, but this seemed to work very well for staying warm.
No blow-up mattress, but I believe it’s similar to what you’re describing.
During what season? 25 degrees at night sleeping on the bare ground with only cover on top seems like a recipe for a very uncomfortable night if not hypothermia. The earth is going to sap the heat from your body. Did you put nothing to create air pockets below you? Boughs? Anything?
@@toferj7441 Marines defy thermal conductance 😎
@@toferj7441 many military guys carry a little foam mat that goes under your bed / moisture & temp barrier. Its just part of your gear and just rolls up tight.
I was there for a similar exercise in ‘96; semper fi
@@toferj7441
We were there in September.
And they said they were having a heatwave.... never got above 49 degrees Fahrenheit.
I don’t remember doing anything to the ground (leave no sign). No leaves or grass or anything. But we did lie under small bushes and out-of-the-way spots.
Never got too cold. And never too much condensation. Although some mornings the poncho was frozen stiff
Dan, Answering your mat request...This could be a long one.. I rarely post my opinions but I have enjoyed advice from your channel since Alone. So I hoped that maybe I could help you out for a change.... I Hunt camp, fish camp, cot camp, weekend tent camp, minimalist camp, hammock camp, and section hike camp... I genuinely have had and used at least 12 or more sleeping mats. The best mat I've had and best nights sleep i got at a base camp, was on a Cabelas Elk Camp self inflating mat. I believe it was made by Thermarest. And a Northface 0 degree bag. I never should have got rid of that setup... Currently I use an Exped Multimat as a base, and depending on the situation an inflatable mat on top of that. The Exped Multimat is awesome! It has been on the AT with me and every camping trip in between. Sit on it, kneel on it, sleep on it. It works as an under quilt and or liner for my hammocks as well,...Dries in a few minutes if it gets wet and its light... So now inflatable mats. You look like a pretty big guy and if you don't mind carrying slightly heavier weights, then I would look at the Exped line of mats. They are durable and I have had extremely good luck with their stuff.. If your concern is ultralight, ultra compact + serious winter camping then the Thermarest Xtherm is the way to go. Very versatile in my opinion. (Very very noisy and more delicate compared to some of the Exped stuff though). My top quilts are either a Big Agnes 40 deg or Feathered Friends 20 deg down bag just opened up. Hope this helps.
I feel like there’s a very fine line between being prepared for everything, and carrying too much! I love the idea of finding the sweet spot!
Additionally, there always seems to be Soldier who has forgotten their gloves. They can not shoot if they cannot move/feel their fingers so I carry a few extras to help out
ALWAYS bring a good pair of deer hide gloves.
great point, noted
I have a pair of leather bike gloves for hefting and rubber in the fak, need some rubberised gloves for general though.
Lots of people use a windshield blind for a ground mat. Most of them come with the reflective side as well. Enjoyed the video. Be blessed
Double nicely as a fire reflector too I'd say.
I like that idea. Thanks!
I'm in a hammock 100 percent of the time. Physical disabilities & pain are my main reason I can't sleep on the ground. But, I'm going to try a pad instead of an underquilt this year. I have Rothco foam pad with mylar on one side & a Klymit insulated static V which will both work well with my 2 layer Warbonnet ElDorado. I also have a OneTigris Ultralight 3 season quilt that I am loving. However, it appears to be sold out & OneTigris does not always bring things back. It might be a one time run. If you want to try a synthetic quilt, check out Cedar Ridge Outdoors UP synthetic quilts. They are on par with the quality of Hammock Gear's down quilts. Best wishes Bro.
Oh another great video as always, great looking kit .it's channels like this that inspired to set up my channel Thanks for sharing
Another great video! I’m really enjoying your channel. U have a positive attitude, good intentions and the Bushcraft mindset. We’re listening Coalcracker. 😁👍👍
Great video man. I’m a huge fan of sleep pad and my top quilt under a tarp! Fan of Big Agnes, they make 3-4” thick pads that pack down really small, rugged and easy to inflate! Check em out
I use a closed cell foam shooting mat as my ground tarp and a wool blanket because whenever im in the hills I am shooting as well. Up in the rocky mountains this set up only works in the summer , during spring I add a poofy top and poofy bottom with a thin shell to block the wind, also no tent just a poncho.
Hope this helps , take care and thank you
First sensible comment I've read regarding sleeping on the ground. You must have something underneath you or the earth will sap your body heat. Noting that the lightweight less bulky option is only really viable during the summer months is spot on.
As another Woodsman said: "the more you know, the less you need"!
Ya'll are overlooking tech; how 'bout, having a drone fly in your beer, food or a wheeled drone that follows you like a dog!
It is already here, I'm certain Special Ops are using them right now! It won't be long!
I've done the minimum bedroles on overnights. Soom good, some liked to have killed me by morning. Now for the most part, I use a 5'x7' tarp, an inflatable mat w/built in pillow and an inflatable pillow I picked up from Outdoor Vitals. My wife made a slip bag out of polar fleece to put my air mat and pillow in. Makes it real nice! As for what I cover up with, that depends on the temp for that night. Being 55, I have gotten to that point to where I need that little extra under me. If I'm out for just a night or 2, that's what I generally use.
On a side note, something that always goes with me, is a role of electrical tape. 2 reasons. It works great if you get injured to the point that you need a tourniquet. It doesn't pinch the skin like a cord or a belt does. The other is, if you have to unexpectedly build a shelter real fast, you can use it instead of rope. If you leave out the first few inches of the tape before you wrap it, you can even tie it.
I use a piece of tyvek for a ground barrier. Light as you can get and tough as nails.
I'm out here rocking a spinal cord injury doing this stuff. A couple months ago I dropped a sub special video where I used a woobie and a wool blanket below freezing. Stayed warm enough that night. Love your content man! Always a great video!
my first aid kit includes duct tape and electrical tape
If you have a ground tarp to go under the insulation mat, then just add insulation underneath the ground mat. For example, springy branches with dry leaves or grasses, moss, whatever, interspersed throughout the branches. This would provide both a mild amount of cushion and better insulation. Put the ground tarp on top of that to help smooth out any bumps or sharp twig ends, put the sleeping mat on top of that, then yourself and finally the quilt. Just make sure your base layer of branches is distinctly wider than the mat, and a little higher around the far edges of it, so that it holds it in place like the walls of a nest. Last thing you want is for your sleeping pad to slip out from underneath you on a cold night!
I have an Amok hammock which uses an inflatable pad as support and I use components of my MSS adjusted to season instead of a top quilt. That and a tarp takes me just about anywhere because I can drop it to the ground like a bivvy if necessary. I got a gathered end hammock now, too, but no quilts or experience in it yet. Thanks for the update, Danno! I hope the Coalcrackers all stay well.
Nice load out!
👍🏻 Megawoodswalker sent me. And I know what happened to him.😞
I've mostly done backpacking hiking and bikepacking. Laying down miles.
Started watching these bushcraft videos and I'm thinking of trying it out. It definitely seems to be more about being in the woods as opposed to traveling through them.
One tourniquet = none. 2 tourniquet = 1.
Love it!
Nothing too much, use-based, and not too high tech. Thank you!
The bit of experience I have with your suggested sleeping arrangement tells me that it is definitely necessary to have a ground blanket (like what you showed) underneath the self inflating isolation! These self-inflating things are so easily pierced by sticks or stones … I’d love to have more robust versions of them!
The sweet spot. Has to be learned and earned with dirt time or woods time. Being a former BSA in the 60 and 70s and both a Cold War Vet and then a 1700s Reenactor my views on what kit should do is similar, but what I use is different. Essentially your saying what Mors Kochanski used to say regarding the sweet spot, or as he called it the State of neither nor. Neither too much nor too little, neither to heavy nor to light, neither to long nor to short, regarding what we want to accomplish. I luv your vids because I have a chance to look at another perspective and approach by someone with decades of experience. For most of my day trips I run an old BSA canvas patrol pack which includes a hammock. For a hike or a scout of a new area I use a military harness and belt system spray painted medium and dark brown with tan highlights, which includes a buttpack. For overnight camping a medium ALICE. For winter and weekend camping a large ALICE pack. What’s nice is that both ALICE packs fit the same frame. My Milice kit has a medium size shot bag with jerk, tea, small cooking vessel, and skin. And my tumpline carries blanket roll with anything else. I wear my Capote and tuque.
small inflatable pads can be a great lightweight option. One consideration, are the temperatures you will be using it in. If it is warm in the summer, that it will suit you just fine, but as soon as temperatures drop, you may be more comfortable in a pad that is insulated, it adds just a little bulk and a little weight, but it is very nice when it gets 'nippy'. I have a small insulated pad that I have taken everywhere, at this point it doesn't leave my bag, I don't mind the extra weight, as they are light enough. Just a opinion from a Utah outdoorsman.
Nice one! Wish I could stay in the woods 😜 I like your rubber ground sheath. What is it made of and where can you get it? Thanks and stay safe! Cheers, Martin 🤜🏼🤛🏼
If you had to bugout and not come back what would you take
This is my mindset. I combined my bushcraft great and my bugout bag and it works great. Not having first aim available if stupid though, 100%
I drift around North America the vast majority of the year. And, the vast majority of those nights are spent either on natural earth, or man made surfaces. I travel light, so some kind of ground insulation and something to cover myself up with is usually how I sleep, barring inclement weather.
My body temperature at night must run a bit higher than normal, because I’ve heard people complain about being cold, if their choice of ground cover is thin, and doesn’t insulate well. For myself, unless it’s approaching freezing, on earth i use a canvas tarp or blanket that I double over. I’ll throw plastic sheeting/vinyl tarp under that if it’s wet. When it’s extremely cold (and I’m talking northern Idaho cold) I use a cheap foam pad, the kind someone may use for yoga, around a centimeter thick. In civilization, if don’t have that, I’ll use two or three layers of cardboard, or preferably styrofoam. In the bush, a pile of leaves and/or straw works well.
I cover up with wool, or a wool blend. I know people swear that wool insulates when wet, but I sure as hell have never known it too... lol. It does seem a bit warmer than synthetic, but if I have to use a wool blend, or even 100 percent 100 percent synthetic blanket(s), I’m not bummed at all. When it gets down into the double digit negative numbers, I rely on my clothing, and either a couple of extra blankets or a sleeping bag if I have one and have managed to not destroy it.
I’ve very very rarely had an uncomfortable night.
I do Civil War reenacting as a Union soldier. Already got a gum blanket. Have slept out in the woods in Virginia just on my gum blanket with wool blanket over me.
Thanks for you video's. Here is my sleep system with the weights. Disclaimer: This is a very light system that I use. Ground cloth - Tyvek. weights about 2 oz. Air mattress: Therm-a-Rest Neo Air Lite - Full size 16oz, Pillow: Sea to Summit Ultra Light 2.1 oz, Quilt: Enlightened Equipment Revelation 10 degree 19.18 oz. If the weather is really cold, Therm-a-Rest Neo Air X Therm has an R rating of over 4.6 is 17 oz Total weight of the sleep system is 39.28 oz Just under 2.5 pounds. Once again, this is expensive but it's an easy carry. Skillet
You lost me at the $400 backpack... I feel like one of the best things about bushcraft is the affordability. Id come to the point where I have to make multiple trips carrying gear out to the woods so a backpack was in order. Picked up an old mil surp pack that looks from ww2 think I’ll stick with that
Same. I'm one of the hard headed guys that still refuses to give up my ALICE pack (with frame of course). And speaking of, while I have tried some of the commercial "sleep systems", I prefer a mil surp "sleep mat" (cheap, very durable and yet still fairly light weight0 and of course a mil surp sleeping bag system.
Sir, I would never carry my "Leatherman" in a pack! Always carry it on your belt. It was my go-to when I was in the Army & ever since. That's my 2 cents worth. 😁😁😁😁
I've done many field training exercises in warmer regions using nothing other than a closed cell mat and my woobie to sleep in. When the temperatures were cooler, I have noticed that just a closed foam mat has not done much for me to keep the ground from sapping the warmth from me.
Lucas Smalles My nephew, who is a US Army Ranger, Air assualt, Airborne, Pathfinder and Sniper instructor swears by his woobie. Thank you for your service. MMC(SS) USN Ret.
I just used my top quilt and a Klymit insulated inflatable pad last night, so I am glad I just watched this video. I generally prefer a hammock, but when I take my dog I use a sleep pad and overquilt. The insulated pad and top quilt combo works great for me. I use a lightweight poncho for my ground tarp/rain gear to protect the pad because the pads are just so damned expensive when they are insulated and I really don't want a hole in mine. Also, wear something on your head like a shamagh or wool hat and use a pillow that is comfortable enough to give you less reason to move in your sleep as the quilt and pad will give you some cold spots if you move around a lot in your sleep. All in all, I am never going back to a bag (for now), but I still love a wool blankie every now and again. Happy trails and may your beard touch your toes.
A good practical load-out and a good start point. Keep these excellent vids coming. Really appreciated!!
Inflatable mat and overquilt can work, but the R rating of the mat becomes super important. Encapsulating both in a breathable bivi is pretty sweet, and probably adds a season to the set up (protects the mat too).
I essentially live out of my bag and only adjust it in the later colder months.
Main knife 🔪 multi tool 🔧, gumboi saw🪚 , speznaz shovel🪓, sharpening stone🪨, pathfinder canteen set🧃, small titanium cup☕️, plashplaka tarp/blanket, main tarp, wool blanket, bug net, hammock and , ultralight bivy, clothes, fire kits, sewing needles and thread 🧵 🪡, battery pack that has flash light, small folding solar panel,
1 bar of soap, tooth brush, gloves, fishing line and hooks, couple other odds and ends.. little food, salt, spork.
Snugpak jungle bag
36lbs, I add a quilt and swap to a big sleeping bag for winter which brings me to just over 41lb
I tend to carry a bit extra warmth as it can get cold up here in Canada at night.
Definitely helps to have a good quality bag
U look like the king Arthur actor man!!
There's a resemblance between u n him??
R u somehow related??
Hakhak!!
Cool!!!
U r wonderful!!
I love your videos, but holy crap, $400 USD for a 23L (cotton twill) pack? I'm not trying to be a d*ck, but you can get a high-quality similarly sized pack at a third (or less) of the price made with more durable materials that don't need regular maintenance.
Interesting and I kinda like your take on stuff. I would maintain that it's irresponsible to use blades in a remote environment without making good provision for the cleaning and dressing of wounds though. What if that rag gets dirty? When I sleep outside I use my inflatable mat and an over quilt with bivvy bag.
Ground mat and a moving blanket from Harbor Freight work well
Wow so I’ve always wanted one of those journeyman packs. Finally ready to buy one and just got the email saying they’re restocked. However, despite them saying this is one of their USA designs that will stay USA made, they are now imported! Not only that they’ve racked on an additional 100$ bringing it up to 400$ now! Thats rediculous. They also changed the design of the interior pockets
And that folks is how u turn a good product into shite overnight.
How many days are you going out for with this load out? This looks like a day pack. I'm a backpacker. I've done 50 mile stretches on the AT for a week or more at a time. You've got no food in that bag, no sleep gear, no water filter, no first aid. Also that school bag looking backpack has no hip belt to help distribute weight while hiking. What is the base weight of your pack? A hammock, a top quilt and under quilt are bulky and would take more space than that little bag will hold. I've never seen you do anything that doesn't look like an infomercial. Do you have any videos where you're hiking 10+ miles a day for a week? That's the kind of trip I do. My base weight on my pack is between 18 and 23 lbs. It doesn't look like you have enough water. How many miles will it be between places where you can filter water? I carry 2 to 3 liters of water for drinking and cooking and often need to stop along the way to filter and replenish water I've drunk along the way. That small steel (read: heavy) water bottle won't hold enough for you to make it 10 or 12 miles of hard hiking in a day. Running out of water during a hike is a serious issue. I've made the mistake of running out of water before I reached my next water source because I was trying to carry less, and I misread my map as to where the next water source would be. Let me tell you, that's no fun at all. This happened on a 48 mile thru hike in the heat of summer in Arkansas. I thought I was going to die. I'm saying all of this because I'm calling BS on your loadout. Unless you're just going out a few miles from your vehicle where you'll have a water source, then your loadout here seems designed to sell products and not actually go on a backpacking trip. 🤷🏽♂️
I like to LIVE in the woods
I carry a giant snail pack
Would you make a video for a full timer on the move?
Anothr guy I watch is returning to highlander roots and only carries the traditional roll with equipment used by shepherds and such in 17th century Scotland
I’m curious if you are interested in talking about tradish equipment
And I’m very curious to try wool blankets
Because in my travels my basic bag has always been
>camping pack
>first aid
>blanket
>lighters
>sleeping bag
>sweater
>coat
>knife
Everything else was extra
And I’ve become aware that I got the attitude but not the skills and because of it I often stick to the fringes of the nearest town
Learned this a few decades back..a woobie and a military grade poncho..since then I added a very thin and lightweight nylon ground cloth which was waterproofed...I lay those three, flat against my back, inside my pack. The haversack I have is another very light nylon "fold inside itself" type bags..very cheap. Lasted many years for the same as you...food packed in, trash packed out..G.P. otherwise. Good video, thanks brother.
Small. Little. And then you have small-little. I'm curious. Is small bigger than little. And then is small-little even smaller than both of them. Maybe some other time, we can discuss little-tiny. And, of course big-huge. Keep it packed, man, and keep breathin'.
Bugnet hammock and a cheap 8x10 poly tarp is my go-to. I use the hammock as a bivy inside a tarp tent configuration most of the time. Folding thermarest on the ground and a cheap sleeping bag. Cost $120. Although I need to upgrade the sleeping bag.
I enjoy your videos however obviously you are not traveling far if that is your pack and you are carrying beer.
I guess everyone has their perspective of traditional bushcraft. I prefer backpacking out into the wilderness 4-8+ miles with my gear which typically weighs roughly around 40 lbs.
You may want to consider trying it sometime. Anybody can jump out their vehicle with heavy gear but hoofing it is another story.
Your honesty is outstanding. I would love to check out some Filson gear, but damn is it expensive. Christmas is coming though. :) Great video. Keep it up my man. Prost, from CT.
I’m a beginner bro what hear would be beneficial as I’ve go a hammock and I’ve tarp and a fire steel
Can't go wrong with a Mora knife (e.g. Companion) if you don't mind the utilitarian optics
sry, but filson really is not an option. for a pack of that size, my personal maximum ist 300 bucks (with most people i know calling me crazy even for that).
that pack of yours is almost double that. is it that much better than my frosrtiver summit ex?
i don't know, could of course be, but i doubt it.
I dont know. Perhaps I am wrong. My build is a lot different. First I never carry 2 bags. Second I am not going in the woods without a saw or an axe. Knife for me is for the carving work. Theres a lot more. I guess the survival expert here knows better...
Thanks for the video and all kits are subject to personalization to needs and environmental conditions. Short hikes and scouts, basic kits that create micro climate, obtain water, and create fire are more than enough for overnight. Having food is a bonus!!!!
I use a ground mat and over quilt, and wouldnt do anything else. I use a DIY quilt with 5oz climashield insulation, very easy to make for under $80. I never use inflatable pads unless it's winter, military thermarest foam pads cut to torso is prefered for width and I use it as my backpack's frame. best part about quilts is you can wrap yourself in a wool blanket and put the quilt on top. if you DIY a quilt, i'd recommend doing a closed foot box, unless it's a summer quilt that you want to turn into a blanket at some point, which i havnt found the need, sinch footboxes have an air gap that chills the feet.
If your going to sleep on the ground ,you might as well be sleeping in a hammock. No rocks, roots, uneven ground. I've found the Walmart hammock to be as good as the expensive ones.
Love your videos, but I have a bone to pick with you. Tourniquet. Only if you’re out for a long time? That makes no sense. If you need a tourniquet, even 5 minutes into your adventure, you need it immediately or you’re dead.
Many folks listen to your advice. This advice is horrible and could kill.
Cheers!
PERMETHRIN is a tick treatment that we should spread the word about to beginners like me. I just found out about it.
I have my get home bag. But I need to do an inventory. I have too much good stuff in there. I could probably make two bags. One always stays in my jeep. The other In my pick up. My wife gave me a wind up flashlight. I thought it was funny. My truck broke down in a Tennessee dark winding road. It came in handy . I never laugh at my wife's gifts again.oh a wind up radio too.
Now you got me wondering what's in the mistery bag! The smaller sack you showed but did not got to empty. What's in it if I may ask? And what was it called again? In the Netherlands I never heard of it.
Thanx for all the rest!
9:16 no adding a tourniquet is not a good idea. What is with yanks and tourniquets. Any proper medical professional will tell you they've never used one. My first aid course trainer was a paramedic for 17years and now teaches them along with first aiders. She's only used a tourniquet on a shark victim where he had a whole limb chomped off.
Dunno bout inflation, but under an over on straight bedroll guard mat works good in Canadian and WNY winter. So I’d try yer low under an high under come fall, see how you fare. Hell, fern bedding works good as a mat.
Nice video but always take a tourney kit you could bleed out before getting help otherwise just saying better to be prepared
That is a scout pack--survival essentials from your main pack in case you get lost taking a poop or something. Protection from the ground? Tyvek.
This is for people that think having $1,000 worth of stuff in their backpack makes them a survivalist.
Is there a way to attach a sleeping bag & a thermarest sleeping pad underneath the pack ? Not that I can afford a Filson anything ! P.S. I have to have coffee to live ! I can go without food, but not coffee.
In summer i have done well with an uninsulated ground pad with my snugpak jungle blanket here in the blue ridge mountains. In winter an insulated ground pad and quilt work well. In Montana elk hunting teepee with insulated ground pad jungle blanket over the ground pad for extra insulation from the ground a down quilt over another synthetic quilt made it through -11 F
If you’re going to pack a tourniquet make sure you know how to use it. They’re incredibly dangerous if used incorrectly
Could you do a video on how to load your backpack, what a goes in first and last? Thanks
Band-Aids are not first aid unless you crash your bike and someone has to call your mommy. I carry first aid for things that can kill you, like when your axe takes flight and is stopped by your knee.
Hi there I wonder if you can help please I have being enjoying bushcraft for a number of years and all was well untill 2020 came and the virus got me, now like many survivors it came with a price, a reduced lung capacity and with that less stamina, I will like to sort out a light pack for people like me or those who maybe seniors or small frame people ,any suggestion will be welcome and if you got a video or planning one on this surely like me many others will be greatefull to you
Anyone know if that is the Filson Journeyman pack he's carrying? It looks like it but I'm not sure.
I like your videos but you’re a fool if you don’t carry some kind of first aid equipment with you. Just my opinion. It’s not manly or brave to be ill-prepared.
I have rode across our country a few times I am a fan of pockets if it was pocket size it went in a pocket I would park 2 tires on the edge of the tarp pull tarp up and over motor cycle stake the opposite two corners down instant shelter frog togs make excellent durable 70-80 mph and dry good for 3-4 years on a motorcycle weather always gets worse
I like video . I'vietnam
Belt pouch...dependable fire starters, hand full of ammo, cord in case you lose your pack. If you lose your belt you're dead anyway. Your vids have always been on point.
I'm your Huckleberry ... :D
This guy is right my bags are different according to each trip . I can kayak/camping trip or hike miles into the woods all different gear
Hey, would love to see that bedroll bag loaded with your hammock gear and attached to your backpack. We often do the weekend scout camping and I’ve gotten us down to basically just backpacks. Would love to see your weekend setup. Thank you as always for what you do!
What waterbottle is that ? A 27 oz cleancanteen? I've been trying to figure it out over 4 vidoes lol
I think at minute 9 you meant to say splint not tourniquet.... that’s to stop severe bleeding.
Very helpful and good inspiration. Thank You
Tyvek can be noisy at first but its a good ground mat and can be used in a pinch as a tarp. Super light weight and occasionally you can bum a piece off of a work site for free
Swiss champ. Wish people who don't actually have it or use it stop saying it's heavy. Let's put a leather man on a scale.
The backpack just broke my bank right off the bat lol....
I don’t sleep on the ground, so no comments about that, but I can get 8 or 9 beers and food in my haversack! Beer is probably the only reason I even tote a haversack! Ha ha ha! Cheers!
Omg Hahahah I love that.
What do you do about wild animals and critters in your sleeping area what do you bring to protect yourself
Very useful information. Experience is a great teacher. Thanks for sharing the lessons that you have learned. - Smoky
The ground mats are amazing, super light weight. And you just use your breath to pump it up
you should pick this one theme. because its something im trying to prepare for. i have 7 months. but taking a month out. interesting thought huh?
Nice gear selection - thanks for sharing this video.
Hey, what camera do you use, or, what lence:) Thanks!
Great video but I'm wondering what do you keep in your belt kit?
Pain killers for tooth pain or bad head thumping pain if nothing else carried.
There is no way you need all this shit for just goin in the woods these people make goin in the woods way too complicated every time you go in the woods you don’t need a kit lol like what is the fantasy behind what will happen to you that you would need all this in a pinch lol
For anyone who doesn’t know he did mention a tourniquet and this is a last resort measure it’s gonna hurt like hell and can cause serious damage it can save your life but only use it if you absolutely need to
Honey is really good to keep along for cuts and scrapes it's it also tastes good make sure you're using honey from the location you live in
Why would you need to be out for an extended time to carry a tourniquet? It only takes a second to need one.
I agree about the minor first aid.
I noted that u don't use common edc type pouches as others advertise.That z ur good thing
What’s your basic loadout weigh?
Is a compass really necessary? Any more accurate than looking up at the sky?
We once did to blanket one on the ground an one on top of you it was pretty cold but it was high
In the mountains