Handkerchiefs, commonly called hanks, have made a resurgence in the outdoor and EDC communities in recent years. These simple pieces of fabric serve a variety of practical purposes in our day to day lives. Hanks primarily act as a reusable rag, but can be used as a simple water filter or face covering in an emergency. While a simple cotton hank is better than nothing, a lot is left to be desired in functionality in an emergency. Fortunately for those of us who want to take our EDC survival kit to the next level, the innovators over at Superesse decided to take the standard hank to the next level with their line of functional Handkerchiefs, including the Filter Bandana we will be looking at today.

Superesse Filter Bandana Materials and Specs

At first glance the Superesse Filter Bandana looks like a simple 10×10 cloth hank, similar to those commonly seen if cool EDC pictures on Instagram. Color options fall into your standard typical outdoor colors including OD Green, Coyote, Woodland Camo, and the safety orange I opted to pick up.

The Superesse Filter Bandana is constructed from a food safe hybrid polyester material. This allows it to resist microbial growth and dry quickly when wet.

That is where the similarity to standard cotton hanks ends! When you pick up the Superesse Filter Bandana, you will find it to be quite a bit thicker than an average hank. This is for a particularly good reason! Between the outer fabric layers there is a porous 1-micron filter that is flexible and foldable. This filter is what makes the Superesse Filter Bandana special and a powerful addition to any EDC survival kit.

 Superesse Filter Bandana Functionality

The hybrid fabric combined with the internal 1-micron filter makes the Superesse Filter Bandana a valuable urban and wilderness survival tool that goes well beyond the functionality of a standard hank.

Above: While the Filter Bandana will not seal like a mask, it can act as emergency protection for your airways in a pinch.

Air Filtration

In an emergency you can hold the Superesse Filter Bandana over your mouth and nose to protect your nasal pathways, lungs, and esophagus from harmful contaminants and infectious materials. The porous fabric and filter will not restrict the flow of oxygen, but will prevent dust, smoke, and chemicals in the air from entering your airway.

In addition to particulate contaminants, the Superesse Filter Bandana can filter out several biological threats. The 1-Micron filter will completely block larger environmental contaminants. These include fungal spores and pollen as well as some larger types of bacteria.

While many types of bacteria and all viral particles are smaller than 1-micron the filter can help protect from bacterial and viral particles found in droplet form from infected individuals coughing and sneezing.

Above: The Superesse Filter Bandana is a quick and effect way to filter large particulates, chemicals, and some pathogens from water.

Water Pre-Filtration

The Superesse Filtration Bandana has many of the same benefits and limitations as when filtering water. The filter can remove most particulate and chemical contaminants from water. This is especially helpful when sourcing water near farmland and industrial areas.

The filter will also remove several common waterborne parasites such as Giardia and Cryptosporidium. It can also help reduce the amount pathogens like Mycobacteria and Legionella that can sometimes be larger than 1-micron. The filter will not remove smaller bacteria, viral particles, and cytotoxins that certain algae produce.

When possible, it is essential to boil or chemically disinfect water before drinking it. The pre-filtration process will remove particulate and chemical contaminants that boiling and other disinfection methods will not remove.

When on the move during a survival situation it may not always be viable to spend time disinfecting water. The Filter Bandana is a great “better than nothing option” in theses cases.

Above: The Superesse Filter Bandana makes an excellent addition to any EDC Survival Kit.

Final Thoughts

If you plan on carrying a hank, it might as well be very functional! The functionality of the Superesse Filter Bandana makes it an excellent addition to any EDC Survival kit. Having a lightweight air and water filter that is easy to carry is a no brainer.

A protective face covering in a contaminant filled room can be the difference between safe egress and deadly results. The ability to remove chemical, particulate, and some biological threats in from water is also valuable.

While Proper water disinfection is always best, in an emergency the best gear is the gear you have on you!

Check out the Superesse Filter Bandana, along with the full line of functional hanks at superessestraps.com

Read More

Don’t miss essential survival insights—sign up for Recoil Offgrid’s free newsletter today!

• Hands On: Clean Water To Go with the Grayl Geopress
• Gas Masks 101
• Protecting Our Water: Cybersecurity Threatens Water Safety
• Survival Water Filter: Pure Hydration

The post Superesse Filter Bandana appeared first on RECOIL OFFGRID.

[#item_full_content] 

[[{“value”:”

Handkerchiefs, commonly called hanks, have made a resurgence in the outdoor and EDC communities in recent years. These simple pieces of fabric serve a variety of practical purposes in our day to day lives. Hanks primarily act as a reusable rag, but can be used as a simple water filter or face covering in an emergency. While a simple cotton hank is better than nothing, a lot is left to be desired in functionality in an emergency. Fortunately for those of us who want to take our EDC survival kit to the next level, the innovators over at Superesse decided to take the standard hank to the next level with their line of functional Handkerchiefs, including the Filter Bandana we will be looking at today.

Superesse Filter Bandana Materials and Specs

At first glance the Superesse Filter Bandana looks like a simple 10×10 cloth hank, similar to those commonly seen if cool EDC pictures on Instagram. Color options fall into your standard typical outdoor colors including OD Green, Coyote, Woodland Camo, and the safety orange I opted to pick up.

The Superesse Filter Bandana is constructed from a food safe hybrid polyester material. This allows it to resist microbial growth and dry quickly when wet.

That is where the similarity to standard cotton hanks ends! When you pick up the Superesse Filter Bandana, you will find it to be quite a bit thicker than an average hank. This is for a particularly good reason! Between the outer fabric layers there is a porous 1-micron filter that is flexible and foldable. This filter is what makes the Superesse Filter Bandana special and a powerful addition to any EDC survival kit.

 Superesse Filter Bandana Functionality

The hybrid fabric combined with the internal 1-micron filter makes the Superesse Filter Bandana a valuable urban and wilderness survival tool that goes well beyond the functionality of a standard hank.

Above: While the Filter Bandana will not seal like a mask, it can act as emergency protection for your airways in a pinch.

Air Filtration

In an emergency you can hold the Superesse Filter Bandana over your mouth and nose to protect your nasal pathways, lungs, and esophagus from harmful contaminants and infectious materials. The porous fabric and filter will not restrict the flow of oxygen, but will prevent dust, smoke, and chemicals in the air from entering your airway.

In addition to particulate contaminants, the Superesse Filter Bandana can filter out several biological threats. The 1-Micron filter will completely block larger environmental contaminants. These include fungal spores and pollen as well as some larger types of bacteria.

While many types of bacteria and all viral particles are smaller than 1-micron the filter can help protect from bacterial and viral particles found in droplet form from infected individuals coughing and sneezing.

Above: The Superesse Filter Bandana is a quick and effect way to filter large particulates, chemicals, and some pathogens from water.

Water Pre-Filtration

The Superesse Filtration Bandana has many of the same benefits and limitations as when filtering water. The filter can remove most particulate and chemical contaminants from water. This is especially helpful when sourcing water near farmland and industrial areas.

The filter will also remove several common waterborne parasites such as Giardia and Cryptosporidium. It can also help reduce the amount pathogens like Mycobacteria and Legionella that can sometimes be larger than 1-micron. The filter will not remove smaller bacteria, viral particles, and cytotoxins that certain algae produce.

When possible, it is essential to boil or chemically disinfect water before drinking it. The pre-filtration process will remove particulate and chemical contaminants that boiling and other disinfection methods will not remove.

When on the move during a survival situation it may not always be viable to spend time disinfecting water. The Filter Bandana is a great “better than nothing option” in theses cases.

Above: The Superesse Filter Bandana makes an excellent addition to any EDC Survival Kit.

Final Thoughts

If you plan on carrying a hank, it might as well be very functional! The functionality of the Superesse Filter Bandana makes it an excellent addition to any EDC Survival kit. Having a lightweight air and water filter that is easy to carry is a no brainer.

A protective face covering in a contaminant filled room can be the difference between safe egress and deadly results. The ability to remove chemical, particulate, and some biological threats in from water is also valuable.

While Proper water disinfection is always best, in an emergency the best gear is the gear you have on you!

Check out the Superesse Filter Bandana, along with the full line of functional hanks at superessestraps.com

Read More

Don’t miss essential survival insights—sign up for Recoil Offgrid’s free newsletter today!

• Hands On: Clean Water To Go with the Grayl Geopress
• Gas Masks 101
• Protecting Our Water: Cybersecurity Threatens Water Safety
• Survival Water Filter: Pure Hydration

The post Superesse Filter Bandana appeared first on RECOIL OFFGRID.

“}]] 

The post Superesse Filter Bandana appeared first on Spin Politico.

Knives by Nuge is a fixed blade maker out of New Jersey known for making hard use fixed blades. His Wicket line has been wildly popular for the better part of 2 years with both outdoors people and EDC users. The Wicket was originally designed as a small neck knife but has evolved to include an XL version that is still pocket friendly and Big Boi for full sized bushcraft use.  The success of the Wicket has allowed Knives by Nuge to branch out and bring back older designs like the Chickpea and introduce new designs like the Bruin we will be looking at today.

Above: The Knives by Nuge Wicket, Wicket XL, and Big Boi

Knives by Nuge Bruin Origins

According to Tom Nugent, owner of Knives by Nuge, the design idea for the Bruin came to him when he was processing a deer with his Wicket XL and needed a bit more reach. Taking some inspiration from two discontinued designs called the EDB and the Bushcrafter, Tom set out to create a dedicated hunting fixed blade with an ergonomic handle design, a good slicing belly, and enough blade length to get into the deeper cavities of a larger animal.

Like most KNB designs, Tom also wanted to ensure that the knife was easy to carry and would not get in the way when moving through the woods. Like all his designs, Tom had some trusted outdoor experts test it out in real life use scenarios. Through the testing process, he received a lot of positive feedback on the Bruin’s outdoor prowess, not just as a hunting knife but also as a bushcraft style knife, and he ultimately decided to offer the knife in both a saber grind and in a traditional scandi grind.

Knives by Nuge released the Bruin this year at the Georgia Bushcraft Fall Gathering and I got the opportunity to grab one of the first scandi grind versions in CPM-3V super steel.  As I spend a good deal of time in the woods doing bushcraft related tasks its hard to resist a scandi grind especially when it’s combined with a super tough steel like 3V!

Above: The Knives by Nuge Bruin with G10 scales, a scandi grind and CPM-3V super steel.

Knives by Nuge Bruin Design

The Bruin’s 3.75-inch blade is more than enough for game processing tasks and a majority of your typical outdoor and bushcraft tasks. The belly allows it to effectively perform slicing tasks from processing game to prepping a camp meal. While many would argue the saber grind is a better option for slicing, the 3/32 inch blade stock combined with KBN’s sharp scandi grind did just fine when I used to cut meat, fruit and vegetables.

The Bruin’s spine has a 90-degree angle allowing it to be used for striking a ferro rod or performing wood scraping tasks, so you won’t need to potentially dull or damage your blade to get your fire started.

The blade point does a great job piercing while still having enough material behind it to prevent accidental breakage, especially when combined with tough steel options. Speaking of tough steel choices, this makes the Bruin ideal for hard use tasks such as batoning wood even with a relatively small blade and thinner stock.

The Bruin’s handle is ergonomic with some contouring for grip making it comfortable over long term use with a hammer grip and performing push cuts. There are scalloped areas closest to the blade that allow for a pinch grip when doing detailed work. The butt of the handle has a slight flare that helps prevent slipping when the Bruin is wet or covered in blood.

Bruin Specs

• Overall Length: 8.25 inches
• Blade Length: 3.75inches
• Handle Length: 4.50 inches
• Blade Grind: Saber or Scandi
• Steel Options: AEB-L, Nitro-V, CPM-3V
• Handle Materials: G10 or Micarta

Bruin Carry Options

The Bruin I got came with a custom made Kydex pocket sheath and Tom was kind enough to also give me one of the prototype leather belt sheaths made by Badger Claw Outfitters.

Above: The Custom made Kydex Pocket Sheath, makes a for a very slim package.

Kydex Pocket Sheath

The Kydex sheath is ambidextrous, allowing the knife to be inserted into the sheath in with the edge facing either direction. The knife is held in by a friction fit that is secure enough to prevent the knife from falling out, even when I tried to aggressively shake it, but still allow for easy draw. The pocket clip is made by Discreet Carry Concepts and has exceptional retention. There is a small drainage hole on the bottom of the sheath to allow water to exit the sheath should it get in.

Based on the size of the Bruin, I was a bit skeptical of the comfort of carrying it in my pocket, but I was pleasantly surprised that the full-sized knife not only fit in my pocket it did some comfortably and I was even able to put other items like my cell phone in the same pocket.

Above: The optional Badger Claw Outfitters leather belt sheath is a great choice for traditional carry.

Leather Belt Sheath

If you are looking for a more traditional carry option, the leather belt sheath is an excellent option. The leather belt sheath made by Badger Claw Outfitters is made from Crazy Horse Leather, and in my experience only looks better with age! The Bruin sits snuggly in the sheath, with just enough handle exposed for good purchase to draw the knife. The belt loop is large enough to accommodate wide belts and can easily accept a dangler should you want it to ride a bit lower.

Final Thoughts

While my usage time on the Knives by Nuge Bruin is limited, I am impressed with the design. Through a weekend of use while camping as well as putting it to work as an EDC knife for a few days, and it performed admirably in all tasks. For outdoor use the Bruin seems like it fits the bill for an all-purpose field knife that can handle hunting, fishing, camp and bushcraft tasks well. For EDC, it’s a great knife if you are looking for an easy to carry full sized knife, that the overall size is not so apparent to others thanks to the pocket sheath.

The first batch of Bruin’s will be available on knivesbynuge.com on Friday, November 15^th 2024. As the Bruin is handmade, supplies are limited!

Read More

Don’t miss essential survival insights—sign up for Recoil Offgrid’s free newsletter today!

• TOPS Knives El Pionero
• Reiff Knives F4 Field Test: A Comparison of the Three F4 Variants
• Bushcraft Gear For The Georgia Bushcraft Fall Gathering
• ZT 0308: 4 Years Later

The post Knives by Nuge Bruin appeared first on RECOIL OFFGRID.

[#item_full_content] 

[[{“value”:”

Knives by Nuge is a fixed blade maker out of New Jersey known for making hard use fixed blades. His Wicket line has been wildly popular for the better part of 2 years with both outdoors people and EDC users. The Wicket was originally designed as a small neck knife but has evolved to include an XL version that is still pocket friendly and Big Boi for full sized bushcraft use.  The success of the Wicket has allowed Knives by Nuge to branch out and bring back older designs like the Chickpea and introduce new designs like the Bruin we will be looking at today.

Above: The Knives by Nuge Wicket, Wicket XL, and Big Boi

Knives by Nuge Bruin Origins

According to Tom Nugent, owner of Knives by Nuge, the design idea for the Bruin came to him when he was processing a deer with his Wicket XL and needed a bit more reach. Taking some inspiration from two discontinued designs called the EDB and the Bushcrafter, Tom set out to create a dedicated hunting fixed blade with an ergonomic handle design, a good slicing belly, and enough blade length to get into the deeper cavities of a larger animal.

Like most KNB designs, Tom also wanted to ensure that the knife was easy to carry and would not get in the way when moving through the woods. Like all his designs, Tom had some trusted outdoor experts test it out in real life use scenarios. Through the testing process, he received a lot of positive feedback on the Bruin’s outdoor prowess, not just as a hunting knife but also as a bushcraft style knife, and he ultimately decided to offer the knife in both a saber grind and in a traditional scandi grind.

Knives by Nuge released the Bruin this year at the Georgia Bushcraft Fall Gathering and I got the opportunity to grab one of the first scandi grind versions in CPM-3V super steel.  As I spend a good deal of time in the woods doing bushcraft related tasks its hard to resist a scandi grind especially when it’s combined with a super tough steel like 3V!

Above: The Knives by Nuge Bruin with G10 scales, a scandi grind and CPM-3V super steel.

Knives by Nuge Bruin Design

The Bruin’s 3.75-inch blade is more than enough for game processing tasks and a majority of your typical outdoor and bushcraft tasks. The belly allows it to effectively perform slicing tasks from processing game to prepping a camp meal. While many would argue the saber grind is a better option for slicing, the 3/32 inch blade stock combined with KBN’s sharp scandi grind did just fine when I used to cut meat, fruit and vegetables.

The Bruin’s spine has a 90-degree angle allowing it to be used for striking a ferro rod or performing wood scraping tasks, so you won’t need to potentially dull or damage your blade to get your fire started.

The blade point does a great job piercing while still having enough material behind it to prevent accidental breakage, especially when combined with tough steel options. Speaking of tough steel choices, this makes the Bruin ideal for hard use tasks such as batoning wood even with a relatively small blade and thinner stock.

The Bruin’s handle is ergonomic with some contouring for grip making it comfortable over long term use with a hammer grip and performing push cuts. There are scalloped areas closest to the blade that allow for a pinch grip when doing detailed work. The butt of the handle has a slight flare that helps prevent slipping when the Bruin is wet or covered in blood.

Bruin Specs

• Overall Length: 8.25 inches
• Blade Length: 3.75inches
• Handle Length: 4.50 inches
• Blade Grind: Saber or Scandi
• Steel Options: AEB-L, Nitro-V, CPM-3V
• Handle Materials: G10 or Micarta

Bruin Carry Options

The Bruin I got came with a custom made Kydex pocket sheath and Tom was kind enough to also give me one of the prototype leather belt sheaths made by Badger Claw Outfitters.

Above: The Custom made Kydex Pocket Sheath, makes a for a very slim package.

Kydex Pocket Sheath

The Kydex sheath is ambidextrous, allowing the knife to be inserted into the sheath in with the edge facing either direction. The knife is held in by a friction fit that is secure enough to prevent the knife from falling out, even when I tried to aggressively shake it, but still allow for easy draw. The pocket clip is made by Discreet Carry Concepts and has exceptional retention. There is a small drainage hole on the bottom of the sheath to allow water to exit the sheath should it get in.

Based on the size of the Bruin, I was a bit skeptical of the comfort of carrying it in my pocket, but I was pleasantly surprised that the full-sized knife not only fit in my pocket it did some comfortably and I was even able to put other items like my cell phone in the same pocket.

Above: The optional Badger Claw Outfitters leather belt sheath is a great choice for traditional carry.

Leather Belt Sheath

If you are looking for a more traditional carry option, the leather belt sheath is an excellent option. The leather belt sheath made by Badger Claw Outfitters is made from Crazy Horse Leather, and in my experience only looks better with age! The Bruin sits snuggly in the sheath, with just enough handle exposed for good purchase to draw the knife. The belt loop is large enough to accommodate wide belts and can easily accept a dangler should you want it to ride a bit lower.

Final Thoughts

While my usage time on the Knives by Nuge Bruin is limited, I am impressed with the design. Through a weekend of use while camping as well as putting it to work as an EDC knife for a few days, and it performed admirably in all tasks. For outdoor use the Bruin seems like it fits the bill for an all-purpose field knife that can handle hunting, fishing, camp and bushcraft tasks well. For EDC, it’s a great knife if you are looking for an easy to carry full sized knife, that the overall size is not so apparent to others thanks to the pocket sheath.

The first batch of Bruin’s will be available on knivesbynuge.com on Friday, November 15^th 2024. As the Bruin is handmade, supplies are limited!

Read More

Don’t miss essential survival insights—sign up for Recoil Offgrid’s free newsletter today!

• TOPS Knives El Pionero
• Reiff Knives F4 Field Test: A Comparison of the Three F4 Variants
• Bushcraft Gear For The Georgia Bushcraft Fall Gathering
• ZT 0308: 4 Years Later

The post Knives by Nuge Bruin appeared first on RECOIL OFFGRID.

“}]] 

The post Knives by Nuge Bruin appeared first on Spin Politico.

When it comes to reliable communication in remote environments, the GARMIN inReach Messenger Plus offers a unique set of features that set it apart from other satellite communication devices. It’s not just about sending an SOS in a life-or-death situation—this device is designed to keep you connected even in the most isolated parts of the world, allowing for text, photo, and voice messaging without cell service. This comprehensive review will dig deeper into what makes the inReach Messenger Plus a standout, as well as the areas where it might fall short.

Key Features at a Glance

• Text, Photo, and Voice Messaging Without Cell Service
• Interactive SOS Function with 24/7 Global Response
• TracBack Routing Feature for Easy Navigation
• Live GPS Location Sharing via Satellite
• Durable Design Rated IPX7 for Water Resistance
• Up to 25 Days of Battery Life
• Dimensions: 3.1″ x 2.5″ x 0.9″ ( 7.8 x 6.4 x 2.3 cm)
• Weight: 4.1 oz (117.2 g)
• MSRP: $499.99
• URL: garmin.com

These features alone make the inReach Messenger Plus sound like a solid choice for adventurers, but there’s much more to it, especially when paired with GARMIN’s smartphone apps or other GARMIN devices.

Above: When paired with a smartphone, the free Garmin app allows you to customize messages, track your movement, access your contents, get localized weather reports and access to many other features.

First Impressions: Simple Yet Capable

At first glance, the GARMIN inReach Messenger Plus might seem a little too simplistic. It has just three navigation buttons, a small monochrome LCD display, and a dedicated SOS button. But don’t let that fool you. Once you pair it with the GARMIN Explore or GARMIN Messenger smartphone apps, it transforms into a remote communication powerhouse.

What’s in the Box:

• inReach Messenger Plus device
• USB-C cable for charging
• Documentation

One noticeable omission is the lack of a lanyard. While GARMIN sells several lanyard options—like retractable, breakaway, and flotation lanyards—I found myself improvising with some tarred bank line. 550 cord is too thick to be practical here, so make sure you use some thin and tough cordage if you don’t want to buy an official accessory.

Above: The InReach’s tough casing ensures that it can stand up to harsh conditions without compromising it’s operability.

Performance and Features

Here’s where the inReach Messenger Plus shines: it’s incredibly versatile when paired with your smartphone, allowing you to send texts, photos, and even 30-second voice messages, all without needing any cell service. Here’s a breakdown of its most important features:

SOS and Safety Features:

One of the most crucial aspects of this device is the ability to send an interactive SOS message. If you’re in an emergency, your SOS will be routed through GARMIN’s 24/7-staffed Global Coordination Center. This isn’t just a one-way distress signal; you’ll have real-time communication with rescue teams, sharing your exact GPS coordinates via the Iridium satellite network.

Messaging and Communication:

You can send texts up to 1,600 characters directly from the device, but for a more user-friendly experience, pair it with the GARMIN Messenger app on your phone. The app supports:

• Group messaging for larger teams
• Emojis and reactions to simplify communication
• Text, photo, and voice messaging, allowing you to send more than just words

The ability to send a photo of your surroundings or a voice message explaining the situation can be game-changers in a survival scenario, helping search and rescue teams understand exactly what they’re dealing with before arriving on-site. This is something that traditional Personal Locator Beacons (PLBs) don’t offer, even though they’re in a similar price range.

Navigation and Tracking:

The TracBack routing feature is another highlight. It lets you easily navigate back to your starting point if you need to retrace your steps, which can be essential if you’re caught in bad weather or disoriented in unfamiliar terrain. The device also allows you to share your live GPS location with others, so they can track your progress and location in real time.

• Navigation features:
  • TracBack routing for returning to your starting point
  • GPS, Galileo, QZSS, and BeiDou satellite systems
  • High-sensitivity receiver for precise location tracking
  • GARMIN Explore app compatibility for trip planning and tracking

Battery Life and Durability:

For a device designed to keep you safe and connected in the wilderness, the inReach Messenger Plus holds up under extreme conditions. The IPX7 water rating means it can handle being submerged in water up to 1 meter for 30 minutes, and it’s impact-resistant, making it ideal for navigating rugged environments without having to worry about damaging the device.

As for battery life, it’s impressive:

• Up to 25 days in 10-minute tracking mode
• Up to 120 hours in low-power messaging mode
• Can send up to 250 media messages on a single charge

Additionally, the device doubles as an emergency charger for your phone, a feature that might make all the difference if you’re in a remote area and your phone dies unexpectedly.

Above: A Garmin InReach connected to your phone will give you weather forecasts for your specific location.

inReach or PLB?

Some people point out that Personal Locator Beacons (PLBs), which often have higher output wattages, can send a distress signal more reliably from beneath dense canopy cover. However, I haven’t found any solid evidence that PLBs outperform the inReach Messenger Plus in those scenarios. The benefit of the inReach lies in its ability to send custom messages, including photos of the emergency situation or even voice messages. This can be invaluable when rescue teams need to plan a specific extraction or know exactly what kind of equipment to bring.

Also, while a PLB requires battery replacements, the inReach Messenger Plus does not. You’ll need to activate a GARMIN subscription whenever you want to use it, but if you’re only going on occasional expeditions, this can still be less expensive than replacing a PLB battery. Plus, if you plan to use it as an everyday communication tool (as part of your EDC setup, for instance), the basic subscription tier is affordable.

Opinions

No product is perfect, and the inReach Messenger Plus does have a couple of minor downsides. First, the lack of a lanyard in the box seems like an oversight for a device that’s meant to be carried into rugged environments. Sure, you can buy one separately, but this feels like something that should come standard.

Additionally, while the device itself can send texts directly, the virtual keyboard on the monochrome display is cumbersome. If you want to message quickly, you’ll need to pre-prepare your messages or have your smartphone handy.

Final Thoughts

The GARMIN inReach Messenger Plus is a lightweight, reliable communication device that punches above its weight. While it may seem simplistic at first glance, its true power lies in its ability to pair with a smartphone and tap into GARMIN’s extensive suite of navigation and messaging apps. The ability to send photos, voice messages, and custom texts via satellite—coupled with its rugged build and excellent battery life—makes it a worthwhile investment for anyone venturing off the grid.

In summary:

• Pros:
  • Versatile messaging (text, voice, photo) without cell service
  • Long battery life and can serve as an emergency phone charger
  • Rugged and water-resistant
  • Interactive SOS with live communication via satellite
  • Compact and lightweight
• Cons:
  • No included lanyard
  • Typing messages on the device itself can be slow

For peace of mind, whether you’re hiking deep into the backcountry or just want a reliable communication tool for emergencies, the GARMIN inReach Messenger Plus delivers on its promises and is worth every penny.

Read More

Don’t miss essential survival insights—sign up for Recoil Offgrid’s free newsletter today!

• Bug Out Bag List of Essentials
• Raw Wilderness Navigation: Navigating Without Tools
• Old-School Navigation: How to Use a Map and Compass
• GeoGuessr: A Free Game to Hone Your Navigation Skills

The post GARMIN inReach Messenger Plus Review appeared first on RECOIL OFFGRID.

[#item_full_content] 

[[{“value”:”

When it comes to reliable communication in remote environments, the GARMIN inReach Messenger Plus offers a unique set of features that set it apart from other satellite communication devices. It’s not just about sending an SOS in a life-or-death situation—this device is designed to keep you connected even in the most isolated parts of the world, allowing for text, photo, and voice messaging without cell service. This comprehensive review will dig deeper into what makes the inReach Messenger Plus a standout, as well as the areas where it might fall short.

Key Features at a Glance

• Text, Photo, and Voice Messaging Without Cell Service
• Interactive SOS Function with 24/7 Global Response
• TracBack Routing Feature for Easy Navigation
• Live GPS Location Sharing via Satellite
• Durable Design Rated IPX7 for Water Resistance
• Up to 25 Days of Battery Life
• Dimensions: 3.1″ x 2.5″ x 0.9″ ( 7.8 x 6.4 x 2.3 cm)
• Weight: 4.1 oz (117.2 g)
• MSRP: $499.99
• URL: garmin.com

These features alone make the inReach Messenger Plus sound like a solid choice for adventurers, but there’s much more to it, especially when paired with GARMIN’s smartphone apps or other GARMIN devices.

Above: When paired with a smartphone, the free Garmin app allows you to customize messages, track your movement, access your contents, get localized weather reports and access to many other features.

First Impressions: Simple Yet Capable

At first glance, the GARMIN inReach Messenger Plus might seem a little too simplistic. It has just three navigation buttons, a small monochrome LCD display, and a dedicated SOS button. But don’t let that fool you. Once you pair it with the GARMIN Explore or GARMIN Messenger smartphone apps, it transforms into a remote communication powerhouse.

What’s in the Box:

• inReach Messenger Plus device
• USB-C cable for charging
• Documentation

One noticeable omission is the lack of a lanyard. While GARMIN sells several lanyard options—like retractable, breakaway, and flotation lanyards—I found myself improvising with some tarred bank line. 550 cord is too thick to be practical here, so make sure you use some thin and tough cordage if you don’t want to buy an official accessory.

Above: The InReach’s tough casing ensures that it can stand up to harsh conditions without compromising it’s operability.

Performance and Features

Here’s where the inReach Messenger Plus shines: it’s incredibly versatile when paired with your smartphone, allowing you to send texts, photos, and even 30-second voice messages, all without needing any cell service. Here’s a breakdown of its most important features:

SOS and Safety Features:

One of the most crucial aspects of this device is the ability to send an interactive SOS message. If you’re in an emergency, your SOS will be routed through GARMIN’s 24/7-staffed Global Coordination Center. This isn’t just a one-way distress signal; you’ll have real-time communication with rescue teams, sharing your exact GPS coordinates via the Iridium satellite network.

Messaging and Communication:

You can send texts up to 1,600 characters directly from the device, but for a more user-friendly experience, pair it with the GARMIN Messenger app on your phone. The app supports:

• Group messaging for larger teams
• Emojis and reactions to simplify communication
• Text, photo, and voice messaging, allowing you to send more than just words

The ability to send a photo of your surroundings or a voice message explaining the situation can be game-changers in a survival scenario, helping search and rescue teams understand exactly what they’re dealing with before arriving on-site. This is something that traditional Personal Locator Beacons (PLBs) don’t offer, even though they’re in a similar price range.

Navigation and Tracking:

The TracBack routing feature is another highlight. It lets you easily navigate back to your starting point if you need to retrace your steps, which can be essential if you’re caught in bad weather or disoriented in unfamiliar terrain. The device also allows you to share your live GPS location with others, so they can track your progress and location in real time.

• Navigation features:
  • TracBack routing for returning to your starting point
  • GPS, Galileo, QZSS, and BeiDou satellite systems
  • High-sensitivity receiver for precise location tracking
  • GARMIN Explore app compatibility for trip planning and tracking

Battery Life and Durability:

For a device designed to keep you safe and connected in the wilderness, the inReach Messenger Plus holds up under extreme conditions. The IPX7 water rating means it can handle being submerged in water up to 1 meter for 30 minutes, and it’s impact-resistant, making it ideal for navigating rugged environments without having to worry about damaging the device.

As for battery life, it’s impressive:

• Up to 25 days in 10-minute tracking mode
• Up to 120 hours in low-power messaging mode
• Can send up to 250 media messages on a single charge

Additionally, the device doubles as an emergency charger for your phone, a feature that might make all the difference if you’re in a remote area and your phone dies unexpectedly.

Above: A Garmin InReach connected to your phone will give you weather forecasts for your specific location.

inReach or PLB?

Some people point out that Personal Locator Beacons (PLBs), which often have higher output wattages, can send a distress signal more reliably from beneath dense canopy cover. However, I haven’t found any solid evidence that PLBs outperform the inReach Messenger Plus in those scenarios. The benefit of the inReach lies in its ability to send custom messages, including photos of the emergency situation or even voice messages. This can be invaluable when rescue teams need to plan a specific extraction or know exactly what kind of equipment to bring.

Also, while a PLB requires battery replacements, the inReach Messenger Plus does not. You’ll need to activate a GARMIN subscription whenever you want to use it, but if you’re only going on occasional expeditions, this can still be less expensive than replacing a PLB battery. Plus, if you plan to use it as an everyday communication tool (as part of your EDC setup, for instance), the basic subscription tier is affordable.

Opinions

No product is perfect, and the inReach Messenger Plus does have a couple of minor downsides. First, the lack of a lanyard in the box seems like an oversight for a device that’s meant to be carried into rugged environments. Sure, you can buy one separately, but this feels like something that should come standard.

Additionally, while the device itself can send texts directly, the virtual keyboard on the monochrome display is cumbersome. If you want to message quickly, you’ll need to pre-prepare your messages or have your smartphone handy.

Final Thoughts

The GARMIN inReach Messenger Plus is a lightweight, reliable communication device that punches above its weight. While it may seem simplistic at first glance, its true power lies in its ability to pair with a smartphone and tap into GARMIN’s extensive suite of navigation and messaging apps. The ability to send photos, voice messages, and custom texts via satellite—coupled with its rugged build and excellent battery life—makes it a worthwhile investment for anyone venturing off the grid.

In summary:

• Pros:
  • Versatile messaging (text, voice, photo) without cell service
  • Long battery life and can serve as an emergency phone charger
  • Rugged and water-resistant
  • Interactive SOS with live communication via satellite
  • Compact and lightweight
• Cons:
  • No included lanyard
  • Typing messages on the device itself can be slow

For peace of mind, whether you’re hiking deep into the backcountry or just want a reliable communication tool for emergencies, the GARMIN inReach Messenger Plus delivers on its promises and is worth every penny.

Read More

Don’t miss essential survival insights—sign up for Recoil Offgrid’s free newsletter today!

• Bug Out Bag List of Essentials
• Raw Wilderness Navigation: Navigating Without Tools
• Old-School Navigation: How to Use a Map and Compass
• GeoGuessr: A Free Game to Hone Your Navigation Skills

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The Suunto Sonic bone conduction headphones are a refreshing break from traditional in-ear or over-ear options, offering a unique combination of high-quality sound and an open-ear design that allows you to stay aware of your surroundings. These headphones are ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, fitness junkies, and anyone who needs to stay connected to their environment without sacrificing audio quality.

Key Features

• Bone conduction technology for sound delivery through the jawbone, leaving the ear canal open.
• IP55 sweatproof and water-resistant rating, suitable for various weather conditions.
• Up to 10 hours of battery life with a quick 5-minute recharge providing 3 hours of playback.
• Enhanced bass and rich sound quality, with minimal noise leakage.
• Bluetooth 5.2 connectivity with support for multiple audio codecs and dual device connections.
• Lightweight, durable design with a comfortable fit for all-day wear.
• Head movement control for hands-free navigation through music or phone calls.
• Material: Silicone and Titanium Alloy
• Weight: 31 g / 1.09 oz
• MSRP: $129.00
• URL: suunto.com

Whether you’re running, cycling, or just walking through busy streets, the open-ear design lets you listen to music while staying fully aware of your surroundings—an excellent choice for personal safety or keeping an ear out for important ambient sounds.

Above: When connected via bluetooth and playing audio, these unassuming headphones make no noise by themselves.

Comfort and Design

The Suunto Sonic boasts a minimalist, lightweight design. Weighing just 31 grams, these headphones rest lightly on your jawbone, leaving your ear canal unobstructed. The silicone and titanium alloy construction ensures durability without adding bulk.

Because the sound is transmitted through vibrations along your jawbone, you won’t have to worry about common issues with traditional headphones like earwax buildup or uncomfortable earbuds that won’t stay in place. And despite the bone conduction method, the sound quality is impressive, with rich bass tones and clear audio across various music genres.

Durability and Performance

These headphones are designed to handle a wide range of environments, thanks to their IP55 rating for sweat and water resistance. Whether you’re sweating it out during a summer hike or facing down a cold, rainy day, the Suunto Sonic is built to stand up to a wide range of elements.

With an operating temperature range of -20°C to +60°C (-5°F to +140°F), you can take these headphones from the gym to the trail without missing a beat. The battery life holds up too, offering up to 10 hours of music playback, and a full recharge takes just 60 minutes. If you’re in a pinch, a quick 5-minute charge provides an additional 3 hours of listening.

Connectivity and Features

The Suunto Sonic connects via Bluetooth 5.2, offering a strong connection with a range of over 10 meters. The headphones support various audio codecs, including SBC and APTX Adaptive, ensuring compatibility with most smartphones and delivering excellent sound quality even at a distance. They also feature dual device connection, so you can easily switch between your phone and another Bluetooth-enabled device.

Paired with the Suunto app, these headphones offer customization options, allowing you to adjust sound settings or manage the dual device connection directly from your smartphone. In terms of ease of use, the head movement control lets you manage music or calls with simple taps and gestures:

• One tap to play/pause music or answer/hang up calls
• Two taps to skip forward a track
• Three taps to skip backward
• Volume control via dedicated buttons

Sound Quality: Better Than Expected

For bone conduction headphones, the Suunto Sonic delivers surprisingly good sound quality. The specially designed transducer enhances bass and minimizes noise leakage, making it an excellent choice for outdoor use where maintaining awareness of your surroundings is crucial. Whether you’re blasting bass-heavy tunes or listening to a podcast, the clarity remains impressive.

One of the standout benefits of bone conduction is that your ears are left open, allowing you to stay aware of nearby traffic or nature sounds. It’s an ideal setup for runners, cyclists, or hikers who need to stay safe while enjoying their favorite playlists.

• Frequency Range: 20Hz–20kHz
• Sensitivity: 117dB@1kHz
• Impedance: 6Ω±15%

Above: Although this charging port magnetically connects in a satisfying way, the lack of USB-C compatibility means you better not lose that charging cable.

Real-World Use: Pros and Cons

In practical use, the Suunto Sonic excels at keeping your ears free to monitor your surroundings while delivering high-quality sound. It’s especially useful for outdoor athletes or commuters who need to stay aware of their environment.

Pros:

• Open-ear design keeps you aware of your surroundings, enhancing safety.
• No in-ear discomfort or earwax buildup like traditional earbuds.
• Durable and sweat-resistant, perfect for all weather conditions.
• Fast charging, with a 5-minute charge providing 3 hours of playback.
• Lightweight and comfortable for long sessions.
• Intuitive control with simple taps and gestures for calls and music.

Cons:

• Not suitable for noise isolation, meaning they won’t block out ambient noise in loud environments like the shooting range.
• Specialized charging cable is required, which could be a hassle if you misplace it. No USB-C compatibility.
• Not ideal for protection against high-decibel environments like concerts or machinery-heavy workplaces.

Final Thoughts: A Unique Listening Experience

Overall, the Suunto Sonic bone conduction headphones offer a unique listening experience that stands apart from traditional earbuds or over-ear designs. The ability to listen to music while still hearing your environment is perfect for those who prioritize safety without sacrificing audio quality. Even worn indoors, you can listen to the audio of your choice will still remaining aware and available to anyone around you. These headphones are not designed to replace traditional noise-canceling headphones but rather to complement them. If you’re looking for a way to listen to music, podcasts, or take calls while still being aware of what’s happening around you, the Suunto Sonic is an excellent option.

Read More

Don’t miss essential survival insights—sign up for Recoil Offgrid’s free newsletter today!

• Tactical Awareness Kit (TAK): Ultimate Guide
• Situational Awareness Evaluation: Part 1
• Situational Awareness Evaluation: Part 2 – Threat Identification
• Situational Awareness Evaluation: Part 3 – Baselines & Anomalies

The post Suunto Sonic: Bone Conduction Headphones Review appeared first on RECOIL OFFGRID.

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The Suunto Sonic bone conduction headphones are a refreshing break from traditional in-ear or over-ear options, offering a unique combination of high-quality sound and an open-ear design that allows you to stay aware of your surroundings. These headphones are ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, fitness junkies, and anyone who needs to stay connected to their environment without sacrificing audio quality.

Key Features

• Bone conduction technology for sound delivery through the jawbone, leaving the ear canal open.
• IP55 sweatproof and water-resistant rating, suitable for various weather conditions.
• Up to 10 hours of battery life with a quick 5-minute recharge providing 3 hours of playback.
• Enhanced bass and rich sound quality, with minimal noise leakage.
• Bluetooth 5.2 connectivity with support for multiple audio codecs and dual device connections.
• Lightweight, durable design with a comfortable fit for all-day wear.
• Head movement control for hands-free navigation through music or phone calls.
• Material: Silicone and Titanium Alloy
• Weight: 31 g / 1.09 oz
• MSRP: $129.00
• URL: suunto.com

Whether you’re running, cycling, or just walking through busy streets, the open-ear design lets you listen to music while staying fully aware of your surroundings—an excellent choice for personal safety or keeping an ear out for important ambient sounds.

Above: When connected via bluetooth and playing audio, these unassuming headphones make no noise by themselves.

Comfort and Design

The Suunto Sonic boasts a minimalist, lightweight design. Weighing just 31 grams, these headphones rest lightly on your jawbone, leaving your ear canal unobstructed. The silicone and titanium alloy construction ensures durability without adding bulk.

Because the sound is transmitted through vibrations along your jawbone, you won’t have to worry about common issues with traditional headphones like earwax buildup or uncomfortable earbuds that won’t stay in place. And despite the bone conduction method, the sound quality is impressive, with rich bass tones and clear audio across various music genres.

Durability and Performance

These headphones are designed to handle a wide range of environments, thanks to their IP55 rating for sweat and water resistance. Whether you’re sweating it out during a summer hike or facing down a cold, rainy day, the Suunto Sonic is built to stand up to a wide range of elements.

With an operating temperature range of -20°C to +60°C (-5°F to +140°F), you can take these headphones from the gym to the trail without missing a beat. The battery life holds up too, offering up to 10 hours of music playback, and a full recharge takes just 60 minutes. If you’re in a pinch, a quick 5-minute charge provides an additional 3 hours of listening.

Connectivity and Features

The Suunto Sonic connects via Bluetooth 5.2, offering a strong connection with a range of over 10 meters. The headphones support various audio codecs, including SBC and APTX Adaptive, ensuring compatibility with most smartphones and delivering excellent sound quality even at a distance. They also feature dual device connection, so you can easily switch between your phone and another Bluetooth-enabled device.

Paired with the Suunto app, these headphones offer customization options, allowing you to adjust sound settings or manage the dual device connection directly from your smartphone. In terms of ease of use, the head movement control lets you manage music or calls with simple taps and gestures:

• One tap to play/pause music or answer/hang up calls
• Two taps to skip forward a track
• Three taps to skip backward
• Volume control via dedicated buttons

Sound Quality: Better Than Expected

For bone conduction headphones, the Suunto Sonic delivers surprisingly good sound quality. The specially designed transducer enhances bass and minimizes noise leakage, making it an excellent choice for outdoor use where maintaining awareness of your surroundings is crucial. Whether you’re blasting bass-heavy tunes or listening to a podcast, the clarity remains impressive.

One of the standout benefits of bone conduction is that your ears are left open, allowing you to stay aware of nearby traffic or nature sounds. It’s an ideal setup for runners, cyclists, or hikers who need to stay safe while enjoying their favorite playlists.

• Frequency Range: 20Hz–20kHz
• Sensitivity: 117dB@1kHz
• Impedance: 6Ω±15%

Above: Although this charging port magnetically connects in a satisfying way, the lack of USB-C compatibility means you better not lose that charging cable.

Real-World Use: Pros and Cons

In practical use, the Suunto Sonic excels at keeping your ears free to monitor your surroundings while delivering high-quality sound. It’s especially useful for outdoor athletes or commuters who need to stay aware of their environment.

Pros:

• Open-ear design keeps you aware of your surroundings, enhancing safety.
• No in-ear discomfort or earwax buildup like traditional earbuds.
• Durable and sweat-resistant, perfect for all weather conditions.
• Fast charging, with a 5-minute charge providing 3 hours of playback.
• Lightweight and comfortable for long sessions.
• Intuitive control with simple taps and gestures for calls and music.

Cons:

• Not suitable for noise isolation, meaning they won’t block out ambient noise in loud environments like the shooting range.
• Specialized charging cable is required, which could be a hassle if you misplace it. No USB-C compatibility.
• Not ideal for protection against high-decibel environments like concerts or machinery-heavy workplaces.

Final Thoughts: A Unique Listening Experience

Overall, the Suunto Sonic bone conduction headphones offer a unique listening experience that stands apart from traditional earbuds or over-ear designs. The ability to listen to music while still hearing your environment is perfect for those who prioritize safety without sacrificing audio quality. Even worn indoors, you can listen to the audio of your choice will still remaining aware and available to anyone around you. These headphones are not designed to replace traditional noise-canceling headphones but rather to complement them. If you’re looking for a way to listen to music, podcasts, or take calls while still being aware of what’s happening around you, the Suunto Sonic is an excellent option.

Read More

Don’t miss essential survival insights—sign up for Recoil Offgrid’s free newsletter today!

• Tactical Awareness Kit (TAK): Ultimate Guide
• Situational Awareness Evaluation: Part 1
• Situational Awareness Evaluation: Part 2 – Threat Identification
• Situational Awareness Evaluation: Part 3 – Baselines & Anomalies

The post Suunto Sonic: Bone Conduction Headphones Review appeared first on RECOIL OFFGRID.

“}]] 

The post Suunto Sonic: Bone Conduction Headphones Review appeared first on Spin Politico.

Fall is an exciting time of year, the weather starts to cool down, we get a coloring show of leaves changing here in New England, and it’s when the Georgia Bushcraft Fall Gathering happens! The Fall Gathering is the annual event where bushcraft and wilderness survival enthusiasts get together for a 3-day camp out at the Georgia Bushcraft Property in Watkinsville Georgia.

If getting together with some like-minded bushcraft and survival enthusiasts wasn’t enough, the good folks at Georgia Bushcraft ensure there is always something to do by hosting over 100 classes throughout the weekend from many of the industry’s top instructors including, but not limited to,  Craig Caudill of Nature Reliance, Joe Flowers of Bushcraft Global, Jacks Genega of Wildcard Wilderness and Dr. Mark “Merriwether” Vorderbruggen of Foraging Texas. If you want to check out some of the best bushcraft and wilderness survival gear out there, head on over to the exhibitor area where you can see, handle, and purchase a wide assortment of knives, bags, pouches and more from the 100+ different makers and manufacturers in attendance.

Find Out More About Georgia Bushcraft

Georgia Bushcraft is much more than just a Fall Gathering! They host classes and events all year long that attract both local attendees and people from all over the country.

Check Out the Georgia Bushcraft Website Here!

What is Bushcraft?

Many people mistakenly think that bushcraft and wilderness survival are the same thing. While there are common elements, bushcraft is more of the art and skill of surviving from the resources found from the land. Many bushcraft skill subsets revolve around crafting tools, shelter, and even cooking equipment from foraged materials. Ancestral skills also play a key role in bushcraft such as making friction fires. It is common to see true bushcraft experts have very minimal gear kits, with just the basics to be able to process the natural materials they need to build their entire camp.

I am far from a bushcraft expert; I continue to learn and practice bushcraft skills to enhance my wilderness survival savvy. The value of these skills are not to be underestimated in a wilderness survival scenario. Having the ability to live off the natural resources found on the land can easily make an emergency situation much more manageable.

Bushcraft Gear for the 2024 Fall Gathering

Now that we’ve talked about what the Georgia Bushcraft Fall Gathering is all about, lets dive into some of the gear I’m bringing along with me this year. I always try to bring a mix of reliable favorites and some brand-new gear I want to test out! While much of this exists in my standard wilderness survival and bushcraft kits, it has been modified for a more controlled environment. Much of the gear you see here will eventually have full reviews written, so enjoy the preview of what’s coming up!

Above: The TM Hunt M18 is an all purpose outdoor and bushcraft tool.

T.M Hunt Custom Knives M18

This handmade, beast of a knife is a new addition to my line-up that I have had my eyes on for years! Calling the M18 a knife is really an understatement; it is an all-purpose bladed wilderness tool! The M18 is capable of chopping, batoning, and shaving wood, both for wilderness tasks and general woodworking.

The shape lends itself well to digging tasks and the thick 01 high carbon steel blade will have no reservations when it comes to prying tasks. The comfortable handle, multiple jimping points and the hole at the end of the blade open a host of potential detailed work options. The T.M Hunt M18 truly presents itself as a jack of all trades outdoor and bushcraft tool!

Specs

• Overall Length: 15 3/4 Inches
• Blade Length: 9 1/4 Inches
• Blade Steel: 01 High Carbon Tool Steel
• Handle Material: Varies per blade.
• Sheath: Leather or Kydex
• Where To Get It: USA Made Blade

Above: The Knives by Nuge Primitive Wicket is a compact knife built for outdoor use.

Knives By Nuge Primitive Wicket XL

The Wicket XL is based on KBN’s best-selling Wicket. While the original Wicket is a handy neck knife the XL upsizes the design to give it a full-size handle while still being compact. The Wicket XL is compact enough that it fits perfectly in your pocket with the available Badger Claw Outfitters Sheath. Despite the small size this fixed blade is all business!

The primitive model is an excellent bushcraft knife featuring a scandi grind 80CRV2 high carbon steel blade that is ideal for all your wood processing and foraging tasks. The spine is ground to 90 degrees making it ideal for striking a ferro rod or performing scraping tasks. The Wicket XL also works well for EDC thanks to the size, ergonomics, and excellent design.

Specs

• Overall Length: 6.5 Inches
• Blade Length: 3 Inches
• Blade Steel: 80CRV2 High Carbon
• Handle Material: G10, Micarta, or Jute Wrap
• Sheath: Kydex of Badger Claw Outfitters Pocket Sheath
• Where To Get It: Knives by Nuge

Above: The Woods Monkey Banana Peel is a versatile friction folder

The Woods Monkey Banana Peel

The Woods Monkey is a division of LT Wright Handmade Knives that hit the scene a few years ago with the Banana Peel Modular Friction Folder. When you see the knife in a closed position the name is obvious, it looks like a banana! Don’t let the name fool you, this is a serious bushcraft tool! Being a friction folder, it is a remarkably straightforward design with no locking mechanisms.

Minimal parts means minimal risk of failure due to breakage or gunk getting inside the frame. While the knife doesn’t lock the design uses your own hand grip to keep the blade from closing during use. This design works so well, it is one of the few knives that I have never accidently cut myself using. The modular part allows you to swap out different style blades or handle scales in minutes to suit your needs!

Specs:

• Overall Length: 6.9″
• Blade Length: 2.5″
• Blade Steel: Varies
• Handle Material: Varies
• Sheath: Optional kydex neck sheath or PNWBUSHCRAFT Slip
• Where to Get It: The Woods Monkey

Above: The Tuff Possum Shackleton EDC Satchel is a versatile bag that can easily switch between outdoor and EDC duty.

Tuff Possum Shackleton EDC Satchel

The Tuff Possum Shackleton is a modular shoulder satchel style bag that is big enough to carry all your minimalist bushcraft gear and can quickly convert to double duty as an EDC gear bag if needed! The Shackleton has a single front flap that is held closed with a durable polymer cobra buckle. The buckle itself is attached by adjustable webbing so you can loosen it for a heavy gear load out or cinch it tighter when you have less in the bag.

The inside has two large pockets that can accommodate nice sized pouches. The rear wall is loop lined laser cut MOLLE webbing so you have a few different mounting options for gear organization. The outside of the bag has a deep pocket on either, which is perfect for storing gear you want quick access to. For Georgia Bushcraft this is a great bag choice because it keeps everything I need at hand and allows me to keep as little as possible in my pockets which greatly increase comfort when doing a lot of crouching a kneeling. The next few pieces of bushcraft and survival gear will cover what I plan to carry in the bag during my trip.

Specs

• Dimensions: 12 Inches wide x 9 Inches tall x 4 inches deep
• Weight: 1lb 3oz
• Material: CORDURA Nylon
• Strap: Adjustable 2-inch webbing shoulder strap
• Closure: ITW Cobra Buckle
• Where To Get It: Tuff Possum Gear

Above: The Tuff Possum PSK pouch is highly water-resistant and the bright orange material will be hard to lose!

Personal Survival Kit

My personal survival kit is stored in a bright orange Tuff Possum PSK Pouch. The pouch is made of XPAC material which is waterproof and has a highly water resistant YKK zipper. My personal survival kit is designed for emergencies, so if all my other resources are used up and some of my tools are lost or damaged, I can turn to this kit for added Bushcraft gear. The highly water-resistant nature of the pouch ensures my emergency gear is protected from the elements until I need them! For more info on what’s inside my personal survival pouch, check out my Mini Survival Kit article as it is essentially the same type of equipment just in larger quantities.

Above: the Tuff Possum Med pouch features a glow in the dark reflective cross to make it easier to locate in low visibility situations.

Tuff Possum Med Pouch

I carry basic first aid and bleed stop equipment with me. Any outdoor activity or event is bound to result in some kind of minor injury. Last Fall Gathering, I managed to clip the tip of my thumb with a hatchet within 30 minutes. I was able to keep the wound clean and dry thanks to having first aid supplies. Beyond the basics, I like to keep allergy medication, basic anti-inflammatory medication, electrolytes, burn gel, and sting relief in the pouch. For major bleeds, I keep quick clot sponges and a high-quality tourniquet in the kit just in case!

Above: The Pocket Boy is compact and functional bushcraft tool.

Silky Pocket Boy Folding Saw

Processing wood is a top bushcraft priority. The Pocket Boy is a compact and reliable folding saw. While I can use my M18 to hack away at a small log or thick branch, sometimes using a saw is easier and expends far less energy. While I’m not as concerned with energy expenditure in a controlled environment like the Fall Gathering, in a real wilderness survival situation every calorie counts!

Above: The Black Beard Fire Ferro Rod is part of a robust line-up of easy to use fire starting gear

Fire Starting Gear

Fire is a priority when camping or in any long-term wilderness survival situation. I keep a Bic Lighter, a Ferro Rod, and some Black Beard Fire Plugs in my kit. This is everything I need to get a fire started with the help of foraged natural materials.

Above: The Nite Ize T8R features a water-resistant and dust-resistant body to ensure reliability in the outdoors.

Nite Ize Inova T8R Flashlight

The T8R is one of my go-to outdoor flashlights. With 762 max lumens, an 875-foot beam throw, and the option to switch between red and white light combined with a durable water and dust resistant body makes this an ideal light. For an extended outdoor trip. The light has a max run time of 30 hours on low, with nearly 4 hours on high and can be easily recharged in the field with a battery pack.

Above: Badger Claw Outfitter produces high quality, American made leather work gloves.

Badger Claw Outfitters Leather Gloves

A good pair of leather work gloves are a life saver when doing any kind of outdoor work! keeping your hands protected from injury and reducing hand fatigue. Reduced fatigue will keep you working longer and more comfortably. Avoiding injuries can ensure that you can keep working in an emergency. It can also reduce the use of first aid supplies and prevent a costly medical bill when you get home!

Above: The Wazoo Gear Foraging Bandana can serve multiple purposes when outdoors.

Wazoo Foraging Bandana

A bandana has many potential uses from protecting your head, neck, or face from the elements to making a quick carry bag. The Wazoo Foraging Bandana has useful information on commonly found edible and medicinal plants which can be used as a quick reference guide or a teaching tool if you have more foraging experience.

Above: The ability to take notes when in the field is highly underrated!

Notebook and Pen

The ability to take notes is one of the most underrated tasks when in any off-grid situation. Sure, I could use my phone, but pen and paper doesn’t run out of battery! I carry a water resistant Field Notes book and Steel Zebra F-701 Pen.

Above: Tissues are the unsung hero of off grid excursions!

Satchel Odds and Ends

Tissues are the unsung hero of an off grid or outdoor situation, a leaf will work, but it’s not pleasant! Shop rags are always helpful for quick clean up tasks. Battery packs and charging cables can keep your small electronics going!

Above: The PNWBUSHCRAFT Foraging Pouch and EDC Travel Tray 3.0 along with a Wazoo Spark Necklace, Fenix PD25R, and Outdoor Element Sparky.

On Body Bushcraft Gear

I try to keep my pockets relatively free during an extended outdoor trip. It goes a long way for personal comfort and mobility. In a real wilderness scenario, I would aim to keep more on me. Becoming separated from your bag or unable to get back to camp is something we should always account for. In a controlled environment I am comfortable keeping it minimal, most of these items are here for redundancy.

• Fire Starting: Wazoo Spark Necklace and Outdoor Element Sparky
• Light: Fenix PD25R
• Basic Tools and Organization: Leatherman PS Style, Sagewood Gear Pocket Strop, as well as a Foraging Pouch and EDC Travel Tray 3.0 from PNWBUHCRAFT

More To Come…

This about covers my current bushcraft gear and wilderness survival kit content for the trip to the Georgia Bushcraft Fall Gathering. Next week I will cover my camp gear set up before heading off! If you happen to be in the Watkinsville, Georgia area November 8th – 10th come on down and say hello! I’m happy to show off any of this gear in person or chat about what’s going on at Recoil Offgrid. It is also a fantastic opportunity to attend a class, check out vendors, or hang out with like-minded enthusiasts. Day passes and weekend camping passes are still available!

Read More

Don’t miss essential survival insights—sign up for Recoil Offgrid’s free newsletter today!

• Ray Mears: Choosing and Using a Bushcraft Axe
• Book Review: Bushcraft by Mors Kochanski
• Review: TOPS MSF 4.0 Bushcraft Folding Knife
• Reiff Knives F4 Field Test: A Comparison of the Three F4 Variants
• ZT 0308: 4 Years Later

Check out our other publications on the web: Recoil | Gun Digest | Blade | RecoilTV | RECOILtv (YouTube)

The post Bushcraft Gear For The Georgia Bushcraft Fall Gathering appeared first on RECOIL OFFGRID.

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Fall is an exciting time of year, the weather starts to cool down, we get a coloring show of leaves changing here in New England, and it’s when the Georgia Bushcraft Fall Gathering happens! The Fall Gathering is the annual event where bushcraft and wilderness survival enthusiasts get together for a 3-day camp out at the Georgia Bushcraft Property in Watkinsville Georgia.

If getting together with some like-minded bushcraft and survival enthusiasts wasn’t enough, the good folks at Georgia Bushcraft ensure there is always something to do by hosting over 100 classes throughout the weekend from many of the industry’s top instructors including, but not limited to,  Craig Caudill of Nature Reliance, Joe Flowers of Bushcraft Global, Jacks Genega of Wildcard Wilderness and Dr. Mark “Merriwether” Vorderbruggen of Foraging Texas. If you want to check out some of the best bushcraft and wilderness survival gear out there, head on over to the exhibitor area where you can see, handle, and purchase a wide assortment of knives, bags, pouches and more from the 100+ different makers and manufacturers in attendance.

Find Out More About Georgia Bushcraft

Georgia Bushcraft is much more than just a Fall Gathering! They host classes and events all year long that attract both local attendees and people from all over the country.

Check Out the Georgia Bushcraft Website Here!

What is Bushcraft?

Many people mistakenly think that bushcraft and wilderness survival are the same thing. While there are common elements, bushcraft is more of the art and skill of surviving from the resources found from the land. Many bushcraft skill subsets revolve around crafting tools, shelter, and even cooking equipment from foraged materials. Ancestral skills also play a key role in bushcraft such as making friction fires. It is common to see true bushcraft experts have very minimal gear kits, with just the basics to be able to process the natural materials they need to build their entire camp.

I am far from a bushcraft expert; I continue to learn and practice bushcraft skills to enhance my wilderness survival savvy. The value of these skills are not to be underestimated in a wilderness survival scenario. Having the ability to live off the natural resources found on the land can easily make an emergency situation much more manageable.

Bushcraft Gear for the 2024 Fall Gathering

Now that we’ve talked about what the Georgia Bushcraft Fall Gathering is all about, lets dive into some of the gear I’m bringing along with me this year. I always try to bring a mix of reliable favorites and some brand-new gear I want to test out! While much of this exists in my standard wilderness survival and bushcraft kits, it has been modified for a more controlled environment. Much of the gear you see here will eventually have full reviews written, so enjoy the preview of what’s coming up!

Above: The TM Hunt M18 is an all purpose outdoor and bushcraft tool.

T.M Hunt Custom Knives M18

This handmade, beast of a knife is a new addition to my line-up that I have had my eyes on for years! Calling the M18 a knife is really an understatement; it is an all-purpose bladed wilderness tool! The M18 is capable of chopping, batoning, and shaving wood, both for wilderness tasks and general woodworking.

The shape lends itself well to digging tasks and the thick 01 high carbon steel blade will have no reservations when it comes to prying tasks. The comfortable handle, multiple jimping points and the hole at the end of the blade open a host of potential detailed work options. The T.M Hunt M18 truly presents itself as a jack of all trades outdoor and bushcraft tool!

Specs

• Overall Length: 15 3/4 Inches
• Blade Length: 9 1/4 Inches
• Blade Steel: 01 High Carbon Tool Steel
• Handle Material: Varies per blade.
• Sheath: Leather or Kydex
• Where To Get It: USA Made Blade

Above: The Knives by Nuge Primitive Wicket is a compact knife built for outdoor use.

Knives By Nuge Primitive Wicket XL

The Wicket XL is based on KBN’s best-selling Wicket. While the original Wicket is a handy neck knife the XL upsizes the design to give it a full-size handle while still being compact. The Wicket XL is compact enough that it fits perfectly in your pocket with the available Badger Claw Outfitters Sheath. Despite the small size this fixed blade is all business!

The primitive model is an excellent bushcraft knife featuring a scandi grind 80CRV2 high carbon steel blade that is ideal for all your wood processing and foraging tasks. The spine is ground to 90 degrees making it ideal for striking a ferro rod or performing scraping tasks. The Wicket XL also works well for EDC thanks to the size, ergonomics, and excellent design.

Specs

• Overall Length: 6.5 Inches
• Blade Length: 3 Inches
• Blade Steel: 80CRV2 High Carbon
• Handle Material: G10, Micarta, or Jute Wrap
• Sheath: Kydex of Badger Claw Outfitters Pocket Sheath
• Where To Get It: Knives by Nuge

Above: The Woods Monkey Banana Peel is a versatile friction folder

The Woods Monkey Banana Peel

The Woods Monkey is a division of LT Wright Handmade Knives that hit the scene a few years ago with the Banana Peel Modular Friction Folder. When you see the knife in a closed position the name is obvious, it looks like a banana! Don’t let the name fool you, this is a serious bushcraft tool! Being a friction folder, it is a remarkably straightforward design with no locking mechanisms.

Minimal parts means minimal risk of failure due to breakage or gunk getting inside the frame. While the knife doesn’t lock the design uses your own hand grip to keep the blade from closing during use. This design works so well, it is one of the few knives that I have never accidently cut myself using. The modular part allows you to swap out different style blades or handle scales in minutes to suit your needs!

Specs:

• Overall Length: 6.9″
• Blade Length: 2.5″
• Blade Steel: Varies
• Handle Material: Varies
• Sheath: Optional kydex neck sheath or PNWBUSHCRAFT Slip
• Where to Get It: The Woods Monkey

Above: The Tuff Possum Shackleton EDC Satchel is a versatile bag that can easily switch between outdoor and EDC duty.

Tuff Possum Shackleton EDC Satchel

The Tuff Possum Shackleton is a modular shoulder satchel style bag that is big enough to carry all your minimalist bushcraft gear and can quickly convert to double duty as an EDC gear bag if needed! The Shackleton has a single front flap that is held closed with a durable polymer cobra buckle. The buckle itself is attached by adjustable webbing so you can loosen it for a heavy gear load out or cinch it tighter when you have less in the bag.

The inside has two large pockets that can accommodate nice sized pouches. The rear wall is loop lined laser cut MOLLE webbing so you have a few different mounting options for gear organization. The outside of the bag has a deep pocket on either, which is perfect for storing gear you want quick access to. For Georgia Bushcraft this is a great bag choice because it keeps everything I need at hand and allows me to keep as little as possible in my pockets which greatly increase comfort when doing a lot of crouching a kneeling. The next few pieces of bushcraft and survival gear will cover what I plan to carry in the bag during my trip.

Specs

• Dimensions: 12 Inches wide x 9 Inches tall x 4 inches deep
• Weight: 1lb 3oz
• Material: CORDURA Nylon
• Strap: Adjustable 2-inch webbing shoulder strap
• Closure: ITW Cobra Buckle
• Where To Get It: Tuff Possum Gear

Above: The Tuff Possum PSK pouch is highly water-resistant and the bright orange material will be hard to lose!

Personal Survival Kit

My personal survival kit is stored in a bright orange Tuff Possum PSK Pouch. The pouch is made of XPAC material which is waterproof and has a highly water resistant YKK zipper. My personal survival kit is designed for emergencies, so if all my other resources are used up and some of my tools are lost or damaged, I can turn to this kit for added Bushcraft gear. The highly water-resistant nature of the pouch ensures my emergency gear is protected from the elements until I need them! For more info on what’s inside my personal survival pouch, check out my Mini Survival Kit article as it is essentially the same type of equipment just in larger quantities.

Above: the Tuff Possum Med pouch features a glow in the dark reflective cross to make it easier to locate in low visibility situations.

Tuff Possum Med Pouch

I carry basic first aid and bleed stop equipment with me. Any outdoor activity or event is bound to result in some kind of minor injury. Last Fall Gathering, I managed to clip the tip of my thumb with a hatchet within 30 minutes. I was able to keep the wound clean and dry thanks to having first aid supplies. Beyond the basics, I like to keep allergy medication, basic anti-inflammatory medication, electrolytes, burn gel, and sting relief in the pouch. For major bleeds, I keep quick clot sponges and a high-quality tourniquet in the kit just in case!

Above: The Pocket Boy is compact and functional bushcraft tool.

Silky Pocket Boy Folding Saw

Processing wood is a top bushcraft priority. The Pocket Boy is a compact and reliable folding saw. While I can use my M18 to hack away at a small log or thick branch, sometimes using a saw is easier and expends far less energy. While I’m not as concerned with energy expenditure in a controlled environment like the Fall Gathering, in a real wilderness survival situation every calorie counts!

Above: The Black Beard Fire Ferro Rod is part of a robust line-up of easy to use fire starting gear

Fire Starting Gear

Fire is a priority when camping or in any long-term wilderness survival situation. I keep a Bic Lighter, a Ferro Rod, and some Black Beard Fire Plugs in my kit. This is everything I need to get a fire started with the help of foraged natural materials.

Above: The Nite Ize T8R features a water-resistant and dust-resistant body to ensure reliability in the outdoors.

Nite Ize Inova T8R Flashlight

The T8R is one of my go-to outdoor flashlights. With 762 max lumens, an 875-foot beam throw, and the option to switch between red and white light combined with a durable water and dust resistant body makes this an ideal light. For an extended outdoor trip. The light has a max run time of 30 hours on low, with nearly 4 hours on high and can be easily recharged in the field with a battery pack.

Above: Badger Claw Outfitter produces high quality, American made leather work gloves.

Badger Claw Outfitters Leather Gloves

A good pair of leather work gloves are a life saver when doing any kind of outdoor work! keeping your hands protected from injury and reducing hand fatigue. Reduced fatigue will keep you working longer and more comfortably. Avoiding injuries can ensure that you can keep working in an emergency. It can also reduce the use of first aid supplies and prevent a costly medical bill when you get home!

Above: The Wazoo Gear Foraging Bandana can serve multiple purposes when outdoors.

Wazoo Foraging Bandana

A bandana has many potential uses from protecting your head, neck, or face from the elements to making a quick carry bag. The Wazoo Foraging Bandana has useful information on commonly found edible and medicinal plants which can be used as a quick reference guide or a teaching tool if you have more foraging experience.

Above: The ability to take notes when in the field is highly underrated!

Notebook and Pen

The ability to take notes is one of the most underrated tasks when in any off-grid situation. Sure, I could use my phone, but pen and paper doesn’t run out of battery! I carry a water resistant Field Notes book and Steel Zebra F-701 Pen.

Above: Tissues are the unsung hero of off grid excursions!

Satchel Odds and Ends

Tissues are the unsung hero of an off grid or outdoor situation, a leaf will work, but it’s not pleasant! Shop rags are always helpful for quick clean up tasks. Battery packs and charging cables can keep your small electronics going!

Above: The PNWBUSHCRAFT Foraging Pouch and EDC Travel Tray 3.0 along with a Wazoo Spark Necklace, Fenix PD25R, and Outdoor Element Sparky.

On Body Bushcraft Gear

I try to keep my pockets relatively free during an extended outdoor trip. It goes a long way for personal comfort and mobility. In a real wilderness scenario, I would aim to keep more on me. Becoming separated from your bag or unable to get back to camp is something we should always account for. In a controlled environment I am comfortable keeping it minimal, most of these items are here for redundancy.

• Fire Starting: Wazoo Spark Necklace and Outdoor Element Sparky
• Light: Fenix PD25R
• Basic Tools and Organization: Leatherman PS Style, Sagewood Gear Pocket Strop, as well as a Foraging Pouch and EDC Travel Tray 3.0 from PNWBUHCRAFT

More To Come…

This about covers my current bushcraft gear and wilderness survival kit content for the trip to the Georgia Bushcraft Fall Gathering. Next week I will cover my camp gear set up before heading off! If you happen to be in the Watkinsville, Georgia area November 8th – 10th come on down and say hello! I’m happy to show off any of this gear in person or chat about what’s going on at Recoil Offgrid. It is also a fantastic opportunity to attend a class, check out vendors, or hang out with like-minded enthusiasts. Day passes and weekend camping passes are still available!

Read More

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• Ray Mears: Choosing and Using a Bushcraft Axe
• Book Review: Bushcraft by Mors Kochanski
• Review: TOPS MSF 4.0 Bushcraft Folding Knife
• Reiff Knives F4 Field Test: A Comparison of the Three F4 Variants
• ZT 0308: 4 Years Later

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