Survival Hack for Sawyer Mini and Water Bottle

When I first bought this water bottle, I just was thinking to myself this would be a good water bottle survival kit.  At the time I was helping Jamie Burleigh develop curriculum for his Survival Masterclass.  He came across a great water bottle for the project, which had this taper to it.  I grabbed one of these as an additional option.  They are both plastic 32oz water bottles, and at the end of the day; both had aspects that were useful in addition to just holding water.  The additional one I chose, had this interesting lid, and it immediately jumped out at me with the thought...will the Sawyer Mini fit on the top small mouth.  

When I got home and tried...I was disappointed.  The Sawyer Mini would fit on it, but not well, it would sit cockeyed, it would not seal, the threads were not quite right and the mouth itself was too tall.  My Walmart special with the "metal" cover was not what I had hoped.  I toyed with the idea of cutting it down, and decided not to, I did not want to have something that more work had to be done to.  Eventually I wore off the "metal" cover from all the twisting and messing around with it, and just kind of used the bottle as an everyday bottle.  But for $5.00, it's a worthwhile water bottle.  

This thought had been bothering me for probably two years now, and I wanted it to work.  Not sure why, but I wanted it to have that capability.  After researching other caps, and purchasing some other wide mouth lids with small mouth lids attached and finding the same issue, I decided to get a new bottle and make the modification itself.  Recently, I decided to buy a new one and cut the mouth down.  Needless to say it works, otherwise I would not have written this article.   

Self contained storage

Why this obsession.  I don't really know, I just knew it could work.  I love the idea of having a "survival kit" which stores itself in the bottle, and the Sawyer Mini coupled with this bottle was the base to the kit in my mind.  This is just another option in the endless variations of kit and "survival hacks".

Now, how to do it.  

Simple; I used a bandsaw and just cut about 1/8 off the top of the small mouth.  Once cut, I used a small file to remove some of the cutting, and smooth it out.  I have been thinking of taking the heat gun to it to tighten up all the "loose" plastic.  There really is not, but after a good washing it is just fine to drink with.  If I heat gun the end, I'll make an update to this article.  Below you can see the difference between my old cap on the right and the cut down new one on the left.   

Comparison of cap(L) cut for pairing with Sawyer Mini and cap(R) in original form.

Once you have cut off the piece, you'll see that you are able to screw the Sawyer Mini on to this bottle no issue.  Attach your straw to the Sawyer Mini, and now you and drink straight from the bottle.  This will skip the hassle of collecting the water in the bag and squeezing it into your bottle.  You can still do that if you like, but this is quick water on the go, while using the bottle.  

                        Attach the straw to the sawyer mini                                            Set up to drink straight from bottle

    Drink from the bottle                                    Pour into another container

The only drawback I have found so far is that once you cut the small mouth down, it will leak when you take the sawyer mini off since the cap has it's seal about 1/8 up now not in contact with the mouth.  I am personally ok with that as this bottle is not used daily for carrying water.  This bottle to me is an emergency survival kit which holds not just the sawyer mini but other items as well.  It can be used as just a water kit, you can store water tabs, water bags, possibly two Sawyer Mini's, a mil-bank bag for filtering, however you want to use it.  This is just another option to your preparedness and water treatment arsenal.  Oh and yes, you can boil in it...so long as you get it above a fire to where it won't melt, but the slow heat can still boil in plastic without melting.  Hope this adds to your toolbox, and enjoy the outdoors!

Leave No Trace Series: Principle 3 - Dispose of Waste Properly

Leave No Trace
Principle 3: Dispose of Waste Properly

© Leave No Trace: www.LNT.org

Proper waste disposal is vital to minimize our impact on the environment and wildlife. Remember, we want to leave nature even better than we found it! Start by always carrying a trash bag or designated waste container with you on your adventures. When you stumble upon litter or debris, channel your inner eco-warrior and pick it up. Not only does this ensure the area remains pristine, but it also sets a positive example for fellow adventurers.

Mindful Disposal of Human Waste

When it comes to disposing of human waste, we must exercise caution and care. In areas where restrooms or facilities are available, always use them. However, in more remote locations, practice proper backcountry techniques. Dig a small cathole at least 6-8 inches deep and at least 200 feet away from water sources, trails, and campsites. Afterward, cover the hole completely with soil to aid in decomposition. This simple step protects water quality and prevents the spread of diseases.

Food Waste Management for a Balanced Ecosystem

For food waste, embrace the "pack it in, pack it out" mantra. Leftover food scraps and peels may seem harmless, but they can disrupt ecosystems and attract unwanted wildlife. Collect all food waste in a sealable container and carry it out with you. Dispose of it properly in designated trash cans or containers when you reach civilization. By doing so, you're safeguarding the natural balance of the environment and preserving the beauty for future adventurers.

Remember, the Leave No Trace principle of "Dispose of Waste Properly" empowers us to make a positive impact on our outdoor playgrounds. By packing out all trash, properly managing human waste, and disposing of food waste responsibly, we ensure the longevity of these incredible landscapes. Let's embrace the responsibility we have as stewards of the outdoors and inspire others to do the same. Together, we can leave behind nothing but footprints and take away unforgettable memories!

So, gear up, grab your waste disposal essentials, and embark on your next adventure with the knowledge that you're making a difference. We are fortunate enough to have the Croatan National Forest, which is one of the larger national parks in the state.  Let's take great care of it.  Stay tuned for our next blog post in the Leave No Trace series, where we'll continue to explore the principles that guide us towards a sustainable and harmonious coexistence with nature. Happy trails!

#CroatanNationalForest #havelock #havelockchamber #LeaveNoTrace #heavycrownforge #robschneider

Leave No Trace Series: Prinicple 1 - Plan Ahead and Prepare

Leave No Trace
Principle 1: Plan Ahead and Prepare

© Leave No Trace: www.LNT.org

Planning and Preparedness go hand in hand. This is why Leave No Trace is so important not just to the back country but the front country too. If you enjoy the outdoors, planning is the first thing you should ensure is done prior to any trip, and for several reasons, we’ll touch on it just a bit as this article is more of an introduction into Planning and Leave No Trace for some.

Any resource you check with about the outdoors always mentions a number of steadfast things like, let someone know your plan, have a first aid kit, and so on. But no one ever really gets into the planning information. They just say, make sure someone knows your plan.

In my city, Havelock, NC we recently received a Kayak by the hour rental along a smaller creek. Life jackets and Helmets are provided, and it is similar to the bike rentals you see in some cities. I think this is great, so not trying to dissuade anyone from using it. My question to you is, do you have a plan for renting a kayak and hitting the creek. Have you looked at a map to see where the creek goes, are you familiar with the plant life, and animal life both on land and in the water? I never thought NC would be a place gators live, but they’re here. Not trying to scare anyone, just talking about being aware of your surroundings by preparing for a relaxing afternoon kayaking. Did you bring a first aid kit? Did you waterproof your cell phone? Do you have food/drink? Just a few questions to get you thinking. Most people would put bug spray at the top of the list. Not saying that’s not important, but with proper planning you will cover all your needs.

So why is trip planning so important?

It contributes tremendously to accomplishing your trip goals, both safely and while still having fun. It will also increase your self-confidence when you are going out and inadvertently learning about nature and the great outdoors we are lucky to enjoy here in eastern NC.

Here are a few things to consider when planning your trip:

• Learn the area
• Acquire maps, and literature
• Talk to land managers
• Choose proper equipment
• Choose proper clothing for climate/weather
• Plan activities to match your goals, skills, and abilities
• Evaluate your trip upon return
• Check weather prior to going, and for updates
• Study a map to familiarize with terrain/water routes
• Bring a compass, learn navigation
• Plan on how you will discard your food/Trash
• Learn the local regulations/restrictions
• Learn about private land boundaries

Final Thoughts

We will never mitigate all scenarios, but the more you plan ahead and prepare the less likely you will be to lose bearing during an emergency. You will also be able to practice Leave No Trace principles and be a part of the conservation solution, instead of being part of the problem. 

To learn more about Leave No Trace Principles, visit www.LNT.org
© Leave No Trace: www.LNT.org

Bushcraft Fire Making: Flint and Steel

Flint and Steel components and extras

As I was looking through some gear and making sure it is all organized, I noticed I have several various types of steel strikers for Flint and Steel fire making.  Then I realized, I almost never put Flint and Steel in any of my fire kits that I take on outings or trips.  This led me down the rabbit hole of why does the Bushcraft community hold Flint and Steel so highly as a good fire starting source?    

Is it the romance or nostalgia of using a “primitive” or “percussion” fire making method?  Is there value of training and skill in being able to manipulate Flint and Steen with natural materials?  Is this the most functional way to start a fire?  Does that mean Flint and Steel are no good?  

Classic “C” Pattern Striker

NO it does not.  I truly believe that Flint and Steel is a valuable skill for not only fire starting, but you need to have a good understanding of ignition sources, natural materials, charred materials, creating charred materials and so on and so on.  Personally, I think there are way better options to carry with me on any outings, which I will get to later.  

 

Striker Awl and Flint Knapped arrow head to strike the steel made by Jamie Burleigh

What I mean by this is, if you study Flint and Steel and learn the science behind it you will discover words like pyrophoric, oxidation, and ignition point to name a few.  To put things in layman’s terms as I like, you’re basically scratching the Steel with a hard Rock (flint, chert, quartz etc), and the steel scratched off combusts into a spark.  Then the spark needs to come into contact with a very dry tinder source (powder like tinder fungus, dry grass, well processed natural materials), or something already charred (cloth, natural materials).   Personally, I tend to use charred materials from the previous fire, it can be done with Flint and Steel, Magnification Lens, and a Ferrocerium Rod.  I also prepare charred punkwood or char cloth if I’m going to practice Flint and Steel or some other methods.  

“U” Shaped striker with flint

Flint and Steel when practiced as a skill can teach many lessons to aid in various other fire starting methods.  Understanding the how and why of the sparks, and how they are a certain temperature compared to other spark producing ignition sources can really teach us how well the materials need to be prepared in order to achieve a good long lasting fire.  

 

The Reel Striker with bow drill divot and Flint to strike with, designed by Jamie Burleigh and sold at CampCraft Outdoors

For more practical and realistic reasons, the better options to carry are a lighter, ferro rod, magnification lens or matches.  These items eliminate the step of making tinder or as Mors Kochanski called it “Synthetic Tinder” (Kochanski, 1991).  Additionally, I carry a flare in my pack and vehicles for true emergency situations (I am a believer that a flare is the best immediate fire making tool on the market).  I do enjoy practicing Flint and Steel and how it prepares me for more fire making challenges.  What are your thoughts on Flint and Steel and its application?  Do you think there are better methods, why or why not?  We would love to hear your feedback and ideas.  

 

Chert and Iron Pyrite

Works Cited

Kochanski, M. L. (1991). Northern Bushcraft. Edmonton, Alberta CAN: Lone Pine Publishing.

Tripod Gantry

Have you ever been cooking over a tripod and wanted to raise/lower or adjust your pot and felt like you are stepping into the fire?   Here is a viable solution for that situation.  The tripod gantry.  A quick easy to fashion method for adjusting your cook set without having to step in. 

Tripod Gantry in action

 You’ll first need stick (provided you have already constructed your tripod) about thumb width or slightly larger to the length of your choosing; recommend about finger-tip to elbow in length.  You’ll want to drill a hole with an awl about 1/3 of the way on an end of the stick.  Then you will want to square off about three to four inches to the left and right of the hole, this is where the most pressure will pull on the stick, and allow the stick to set into the natural triangle of the tripod.  Run some cordage through the hole and attach a toggle on the end.  One method that works well is using a jam knot to set the stick to the tripod and run that cord through the hole.  Options are plentiful so use your imagination!  

Finally all you have to do is turn the stick to lower or raise your cook set, as the remaining length of the stick should be off to one side of the tripod allowing you not to step into the fire/coals.  Then the most critical part of any campfire cooking…enjoy the meal you just cooked in the great outdoors!!!  

Tripod Gantry