The 7 Survival Skills Every Man Should Know
In the vast and untamed wilderness, survival skills become more than just an intriguing concept; it becomes a matter of life and death. Venturing into the great outdoors brings us face-to-face with the unpredictable forces of nature, testing our resilience and resourcefulness.
In these remote and challenging environments, survival skills are not mere hobbies but essential tools that can determine our fate. Whether it’s knowing how to find water, build a shelter, or signal for help, these skills offer us the means to navigate the wilderness with confidence and self-reliance.
Join me as we delve into the world of survival skills, uncovering the secrets that enable us to conquer the wild and forge a profound connection with nature. Through knowledge, preparation, and a daring spirit, we will embrace the wonders of the wilderness and emerge as true masters of survival.
Here are the Top 10 Basic survival skills you should know as a man:
1. Starting a Fire
Materials you will need:
Tinder: Dry, fluffy, and easily ignitable material, such as dry leaves, grass, bark, or small twigs.
Kindling: Small sticks or twigs, about the size of a pencil, to feed the growing fire.
Fuel: Larger logs or branches to maintain the fire once it’s established.
Step-by-step guide:
Prepare the fire area:
Clear a safe space on the ground, free from any flammable materials, and create a fire pit if possible.
Gather materials:
Find dry tinder, kindling, and fuel around your area. Look for dry materials, as moisture can make it difficult to start a fire.
Build the tinder nest:
Create a small, loose nest-like structure using the tinder material. This will be the core of your fire.
Ignition:
There are several methods to ignite the tinder.
Bow drill: Create a bow drill set, which consists of a bow, a spindle, a fireboard, and a hearth board. By rotating the bow quickly, you can create friction that generates heat, eventually igniting the tinder.
Bow Drill to make fire | Image: Wikimedia Commons
Fire plow: Cut a groove into the fireboard and use a stick to plow along the groove to create friction and generate an ember.
Fire Plow| Image: Survival World
Flint and steel: Strike a piece of flint against a piece of steel to produce sparks that land on the tinder.
Transfer the ember: Once you have an ember, carefully transfer it into the tinder nest, gently blowing on it to encourage the flame.
Add kindling: As the tinder ignites, add the small sticks and twigs (kindling) to the burning tinder nest. Gradually increase the size of the kindling as the fire grows.
Add fuel: Once your fire is strong enough, add larger logs or branches as fuel to sustain the fire.
Monitor the fire: Keep an eye on the fire and make sure it’s contained within the fire pit. Be cautious of any sparks or embers that may fly outside the pit.
Remember, starting a fire can be challenging, especially if you are new to it. Practice in a safe environment before relying on these skills in a survival situation. Always prioritize safety, and ensure you have proper control over the fire at all times.
2. How to Get Clean and Safe Water
Survival in the wild becomes extremely challenging without access to fresh water. The top priority in a survival situation is to find a clean drinking water source. Though luck may grant you a water source, it’s essential to remember that most natural water sources are not immediately drinkable.
They are teeming with countless microorganisms and bacteria that can lead to severe illness or even death if consumed without proper filtration.
Therefore, it is of utmost importance to purify the water before consumption. Failing to do so can result in grave consequences due to the potential presence of harmful pathogens. Ensuring that the water is safe to drink through appropriate purification methods becomes a critical task for your survival.
Cloth Filter
Find a clean piece of cloth, a bandana, or a t-shirt.
Fold it several times to create multiple layers.
Pour the water through the cloth to remove larger particles and debris.
Charcoal Filter
Create a small container with a hole at the bottom (use a plastic bottle or hollowed-out log).
Place a layer of small stones at the bottom.
Add a layer of sand on top of the stones.
Crush charcoal from a campfire and add a layer of it on top of the sand.
Add another layer of sand on top.
Pour the water through this improvised filter to remove impurities.
Charcoal Filter for Safe Water | Image: SkyAboveUs
Boiling
Boiling water is an effective method to kill harmful microorganisms.
Bring the water to a rolling boil for at least 1 minute (3 minutes at higher altitudes) to ensure it’s safe to drink.
Portable Water Filter
If you have a portable water filter or purification pump in your survival kit, use it to filter out impurities and pathogens from the water.
Remember, filtering water helps to improve its clarity and remove larger contaminants, but it might not be sufficient to make it entirely safe to drink.
Combining filtration with other purification methods like boiling, using water purification tablets, or chemical treatments will provide a higher level of safety by eliminating harmful microorganisms. Always strive to purify water as much as possible in a survival situation to avoid waterborne illnesses.
3. Building a Shelter
Before setting up a shelter, it’s crucial to assess the surroundings. Opt for a spot that offers natural wind protection and ensure it won’t be prone to flooding or water flow during storms.
Insulation
To begin, construct a rectangular frame using logs. Then, pack the frame with debris like dried leaves or pine branches. This insulation will help retain body heat by preventing the ground from drawing it away. It’s crucial since a significant amount of body heat is lost through contact with the ground.
Frame the Shelter
Keep in mind that this shelter is intended for emergencies, so it should only be spacious enough to accommodate your body. The most effective design for such a shelter is an A-frame. Connect sticks from both sides to form the peak at the top. Proceed with building the frame by placing sticks from the front to the back. During this process, embrace creativity and think innovatively to ensure the sticks lock together securely.
Pile the Frame
After constructing the frame, it’s time to cover the entire outside of the shelter with a thick layer of debris. This step can be quite time-consuming. Pile leaves, sticks, and branches all over the frame, ensuring the insulation is 4 to 8 inches thick. This thickness will act as a barrier against rain and maintain a dry interior.
Remember, survival shelters are meant to prioritize your survival over comfort. Natural debris shelters may feel damp and cool inside, possibly even leaking a bit. Despite any discomfort, it’s crucial to recognize that being uncomfortable but alive is far better than the alternative.
4. Navigate Direction
Navigating in the wilderness without a GPS or map requires basic survival skills. Here are some simple step-by-step methods to help you find direction
Observe the Sun
During daylight, locate the sun in the sky
In the Northern Hemisphere, the sun rises in the east and sets in the west.
In the Southern Hemisphere, the sun rises in the east and sets in the west as well, but it will be located in the northern part of the sky.
Watch the Stars (Night Navigation)
On a clear night, locate the North Star (Polaris) if you are in the Northern Hemisphere.
The North Star is almost directly above the North Pole and remains relatively fixed in the sky.
Southern Cross | Image: EarthSky North start | Image: ScienceSparks
In the Southern Hemisphere, there is no prominent South Star, but you can use the Southern Cross (Crux) constellation to find south. Draw an imaginary line connecting the two points of the cross, and the line will point south.
Use a Compass
Carry a basic magnetic compass with you.
Hold the compass flat and level.
Rotate yourself or the compass housing until the compass needle aligns with the “N” (north) on the compass face.
The direction of travel will be indicated by the “N” on the compass housing.
Use Natural Landmarks
Look for natural landmarks like mountains, rivers, and lakes
If you have a map, try to identify these landmarks and use them to orient yourself.
Navigate by Time and Shadows
Place a stick or other object in the ground and mark the tip of its shadow with a rock.
Wait for about 15-30 minutes, and then mark the tip of the shadow again with another rock.
Draw a straight line connecting the two rock marks.
The first mark (earlier shadow) will represent the west direction, and the second mark (later shadow) will indicate the east direction.
5. Finding Food
Finding food in the wilderness is crucial for survival. Here are some essential steps to help you find food in a survival situation.
Hunting
If you have the skill to create a makeshift weapon by sharpening a long, strong stick, you can use it to hunt small game or fish. The advantage of this method is that it requires minimal craftsmanship to make a pointed stick capable of piercing small creatures.
However, it can be physically demanding and may consume a lot of energy as you chase after and attempt to spear small animals for food. Additionally, the risk of injury increases when attempting to hunt larger animals using this method.
Set Traps and Snares
Trapping is a valuable survival skill that allows you to create various small game traps using materials found in the wilderness.
Though building and using traps require patience and skill, it is a more energy-efficient method compared to actively hunting for food. Trapping can save you valuable calories while providing an opportunity to catch a meal.
Fishing
Fishing is an excellent option for finding safe-to-eat, high-protein food in a survival situation. If you have a fishing line and hook, and you’re near a water source, this method becomes your best bet.
Simply set up your fishing line, preferably with bait if available, and wait for a catch. However, keep in mind that areas with plenty of fish may also attract larger predators. Be cautious and aware of your surroundings while fishing.
Foraging
Foraging for local plants may not provide as much physical sustenance as other food sources, but it also requires less energy to collect. You might be pleasantly surprised by the abundance and diversity of edible plants in certain areas.
However, it’s crucial to avoid anything that appears even remotely poisonous, such as mushrooms. Before embarking on a long outing, take the time to familiarize yourself with the local plant life to ensure safe foraging.
Remember! Even If you manage to catch wild game, it’s essential to avoid eating it raw to prevent the risk of parasites and diseases carried by the animals. Therefore, it’s crucial to learn how to cook in the wilderness and identify safe-to-eat foods.
6. Basic Knowledge of First Aid
Basic knowledge of first aid is crucial in survival situations because it can mean the difference between life and death.
When you’re far from medical help, being able to provide immediate care can stabilize injuries, prevent further harm, and increase the chances of survival.
Here are some essential first aid and survival skills you should know.
Stop Bleeding
Learn how to apply direct pressure to control bleeding from wounds.
Use clothing or bandages to create a dressing and elevate the injured limb to minimize blood loss.
Basic Wound Care
Clean wounds with clean water if available to prevent infection.
Dress wounds with sterile dressings or clean cloth to protect them.
While it may seem obvious, it’s vital to emphasize that an open wound creates an entry point for bacteria and potential infection, leading to severe complications.
If you experience a cut, regardless of size, it’s crucial to clean the injury thoroughly (alcohol can be effective) and seal it to prevent further issues.
Several methods can be used, such as bandaging with cloth, utilizing a first-aid kit (band-aids, etc.), or in extreme emergencies, cauterizing a bleeding wound. Proper wound care is essential for your survival and well-being in the wild.
Broke Bone
In the unfortunate event of a broken limb, it’s essential to immobilize the injury to prevent further harm. You can do this by securing a sturdy and relatively straight tree branch to the limb using rope, cloth, or, if available, 550 paracord.
However, unless you are a medical professional, avoid attempting to reset the broken bone, as it could worsen the fracture. Prioritize stabilizing the limb until you can seek proper medical attention.
7. How to Signals to Rescuers
Signaling to rescuers in the wild is crucial to increase your chances of being found and rescued.
Find an Open Area
Move to a clear and open area, preferably on high ground, where your signals can be easily seen from a distance.
Create Distinctive Signals
Use visual signals: Create large and noticeable signals that contrast with the surrounding environment. These can include:
Fire: Build a large, smoky fire during the day or a bright, steady fire at night.
Mirrors: Use a mirror or any reflective surface to flash sunlight in the direction of potential rescuers.
Bright clothing or materials: Lay out or wave bright-colored clothing or objects to attract attention.
Use auditory signals: In an emergency, use loud noises to signal for help. These can include:
Whistles: Carry a whistle and blow it in short bursts.
Shouts: Yell or shout loudly at regular intervals.
Create Signals in Threes
Make signals in threes (three fires, three whistle blasts, etc.) to distinguish them from natural occurrences and to indicate that it’s a distress signal.
Use International Distress Signals
If you have access to a flashlight or torch, use the international Morse Code for distress signals: three short flashes, followed by three long flashes, and then three short flashes again (SOS).
Use Signal Symbols
Use symbols or large letters made from rocks, logs, or any available materials to spell out “HELP” or other distress messages.
Time your signals to match potential rescuers’ expected passing times, such as during daylight hours or early morning and late afternoon when visibility is better.
Continuously scan the horizon for signs of rescuers, aircraft, or other potential help.
Save Energy
Signal periodically to conserve energy and maintain your strength for survival.
Remember, it’s essential to know the distress signals used in your area or country and practice these signaling techniques before heading into the wilderness.
Also, always have a personal locator beacon (PLB) or satellite emergency device in your survival kit for a more reliable and immediate way to call for help.
Remember the importance of survival skills in the wilderness cannot be overstated. Equipping ourselves with the knowledge and abilities to thrive in the face of adversity not only ensures our safety but also enriches our outdoor experiences.
The wilderness offers us the opportunity to reconnect with nature, but it demands respect and preparedness in return.
By embracing survival skills, we gain the confidence to explore the unknown, to revel in the beauty of the untamed, and to navigate the challenges with resilience.
Let us remember that survival skills are not just about surviving; they are about living fully and harmoniously with the wilderness.
So, as we embark on our journeys into the great outdoors, let us carry with us the wisdom of survival, and may it guide us through every extraordinary moment that awaits