Quick answer Learn to read your lensatic compass like a pro. It’s not hard. Always have a map. A compass without a map is just a fancy spinner. Understand declination. This is key for accuracy. Practice, practice, practice. Out your back door is a good start. Know your surroundings. What direction is that ridge? Pack…
Quick answer Always use the right fuel. Kerosene or lamp oil, not gasoline! Burn it in a well-ventilated area. Never inside a tent. Keep it away from flammable stuff. Curtains, sleeping bags, dry leaves – nope. Place it on a stable, level surface. No wobbling. Extinguish it properly. Let it cool before storing. Have a…
Quick answer Know your battery’s voltage and your vehicle’s needs. Connect red to positive, black to negative. Always connect the jumper cables before turning on the jump starter. Let the jump starter power the vehicle for a few minutes. Start the car. Disconnect in reverse order. Recharge your jump starter promptly. What to check first…
Quick answer Know your route and tell someone where you’re going. Pack the Ten Essentials. Always. Master basic navigation – map and compass are your friends. Practice fire-starting in less-than-ideal conditions. Understand basic first aid for common outdoor injuries. Know how to find and purify water. Be aware of local wildlife and how to react….
Quick answer Test battery voltage with a multimeter. Check for corrosion on terminals. Look for physical damage to the battery case. Monitor charging performance. Consider a professional load test if unsure. Keep a log of your battery’s performance. What to check first (do this before you drive out) Before you head out on your next…
Quick answer Learn a few key knots for hanging your hammock securely. The Bowline and the Taut-Line Hitch are your best friends. Practice them before you hit the trail. Always check your anchor points. Know your rope’s limits. Leave No Trace means leaving no trace. What to check first (do this before you drive out)…
Quick answer The Prusik knot is a friction hitch used in climbing, canyoneering, and general rope work. It grips a rope under load but can be slid along the rope when not under load. It’s essential for ascending fixed ropes or creating a self-rescue system. Learn to tie it correctly and practice it often. Always…
Quick answer Master the Prusik knot for self-rescue and ascending ropes. It grips when weighted, slides when unweighted. Practice on a static rope, not your nice dynamic climbing rope. Use cordage about 1/3 to 1/2 the diameter of your main rope. Three wraps is usually plenty, four for extra grip. Check for slack in the…
Quick answer Build a simple bucket toilet using a 5-gallon bucket and a toilet seat. Use biodegradable bags or compostable liners inside the bucket. Pack a shovel for burying solid waste if no bags are used (follow LNT). Bring hand sanitizer and toilet paper. Plan for waste disposal before you leave home. Always check local…
Quick answer Practice makes perfect. Tie it a few dozen times. It’s a mid-line loop. Great for clipping into. Use it to isolate a damaged section of rope. It’s pretty bombproof once set. Easy to untie, even after a load. Learn it for camping, climbing, and general utility. What to check first (do this before…
