Posts by Justin Self
For hiking with a backpack I would recommend the following considerations: Weight I would go as light as possible. Generally the lighter you go the more expensive you go, but on those long treks i...
No, they aren't real animals. Here's a wiki link for it. Its one of those things people like to tell tourists to watch out for so they'll look stupid.
As far as I know, there is no way to stop the bleeding with out constant pressure. On the bright side, you only give up 1-3 CCs of blood due to leech bites. The problem with leech bites and hiking...
I know there are dangerous plants and fruits to eat, but are there any basic rules one can use when in an emergency situation that apply to all safe foods? The 'rules' don't necessarily have to app...
You can spray your socks/shoes with some type of deet spray or some tobacco water (soak some tobacco leaves in water). I've heard that salt affects leeches similarly is it does slugs, so you could...
If you can no longer see any trail signs, the best thing to do is go back the way you came until you find one and start searching in a circle from there. Never continue to go further assuming there...
Class 1: Very small rough areas, requires no maneuvering. (Skill Level: None) Class 2: Some rough water, maybe some rocks, small drops, might require maneuvering. (Skill Level: Basic Paddling Skil...
Generally if someone asks this question they don't have a lot of experience and are going with a guide so I will approach it from that point of view. The first thing to do is bring your feet up to...
Your best bet is asking enthusiasts, and you can find those simply by visiting your local guns and ammo store. They generally get all the best insider knowledge as they are (probably) hunters thems...
I'm going to Colorado to visit a friend and we will be going on a week long trek across a couple of 14'ners. I'm looking for some ways to help prepare my body for trip.
This question really made me curious as my wife has asked me the same thing. If you end up finding a better solution than anyone on this site can provide, I ask that you would please share it. I s...
My wife and I are going to buy some hiking boots as we've been using regular tennis shoes anytime we go on a hike. What are the things I need to keep in mind when looking for a good set of quality...
Can you always eat raw meat (wild) as long as it is fresh?
Goose-down bags are lighter and more durable as the insulation holds up MUCH better to compression than synthetic. If you are going on long treks and really need to watch the weight, then a goose ...
I actually had a site bookmarked for this very reason that provided some good, sound advice. I've always heard that a cougar (mountain lion) generally doesn't let you see it unless its considering ...
Here are the basic signs of Hypothermia Shivering. May start off mildly and go severe General apathy and sudden exhaustion Losing coordination (can't tie a knot, etc) Loss of concentration Sudden...
I suggest using a bow drill. It's a little tricky to start, but once you get the hang of it you can get pretty good at it. For wood selections, you generally want to stick with the following: Ob...
Try and distribute your weight as much as possible. If you are wearing a backpack, take it off and lay it in front you and use it to gain as much leverage as you can. Use sticks, plants, anything ...
Doing it correctly can ensure the temperature of the snow cave maintains around 32°F (0°C) or higher. Its not just about digging the extra hole but how the entire cave is constructed that can make...