CATEGORIES
CATEGORIESRecent studies suggest our ancestors used tools over 3 million years ago. Neanderthal or not, these are four essential tools that you should never leave home without.
In pocket or glove compartment, a solid multi-tool saves the day (while saving you from carrying a dozen or more individual tools). Key components: pliers, screwdrivers (flat and Philips), a blade and a can opener. More advanced models offer: scissors, wire cutters, files, corkscrews and sawblades.
A multi-tool with a blade doesn’t replace a standalone knife. A knife cuts faster, is more balanced for effective and safe cutting and is often made of higher quality steel.
In a fixed blade knife, steel extends past the blade into the handle (called the tang). Alternatively, a folding blade has a blade attached to the handle via a pivot point, folding into the handle for storage (hence the name).
Fixed blades have fewer moving parts with added weight (providing stability in handling). Folding knives are normally smaller, weigh less and are less discernible (compared to Crocodile Dundee’s fixed blade).
Steel quality is the highest priority, with knife blades needing five attributes: hardness (bending or breaking), toughness (chipping or cracking), edge retention (how long it stays sharp), wear resistance (combatting abrasive and adhesive wear) and corrosion resistance (how easily it rusts).
To geek out on steel types, Bestpocketknifetoday.com has a great in-depth guide on blade steel.
Harnessing fire is right up there on the list of mankind’s greatest achievements. Resist the temptation to take combustion for granted; knowing how to start a fire in a bad situation can be the difference between life and death. Consider three tried-and-true fire starter types:
Lighter: quick and easy to use, it’s a dependable option. Unlike matches, wet doesn’t matter (though you might need to wait for it to dry).
Matches: cheap and classy, wind is the nemesis here. If you’re heading into the wild, spring for the waterproof variety.
Flint and steel: Old School cool and the most durable option. Easy to dry and capable of numerous strikes over a lifetime, this takes the most prep time as sparks need tinder to catch and produce a flame. A tip: Purchase or make your own char cloth to simplify fire starting.
Getting caught out after dark without a light is a dangerous predicament. Abandon the cell phone flashlight; a dedicated light makes a huge difference when it comes to returning home safely.
Headlamps: Today’s headlamp is lighter, longer lasting and brighter. New waterproof, ultralight and USB rechargeable models include those from Black Diamond and Petzl. Hands-free use and extended battery life top the reasons to wear one.
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Active Junky USB Rechargeable Recommendation: |
Active Junky Waterproof Recommendation: |
Flashlights: Gone are mammoth D-cell flashlights requiring a good punch to keep them running. Current models are smaller and brighter by a factor of 2x-4x with multiple illumination levels and modes. For maximum brightness, choose a flashlight—headlamps hit 250 lumens, handhelds push 1000 lumens or more.
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Want it bright? Check out the: |
Want it ultralight? Check out the: |
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