The Basics.wmv

[@jelkel25]

True, my first set of British army mess tins were so abused early on they're a disgrace but they still work. First rucksack, stolen. First backpack, fell to pieces, early knives, lost or destroyed. We never used to buy cordage, it was recovered outside warehouses, bins, old boot laces, bits of jute twine found in the garage. The old style jute potato sacks made good sleeping mats (when you stuffed them). If you start out with lots top notch kit you don't learn how to get the most from what you have and improvise and improvisation is a skill you're guaranteed to need eventually.

[@BLACKIETHOMAS]

very true the mind set to look for and see the resource is the true skill safe journeys

[@trynsurviven2440]

Your gear doesn’t have to be expensive to be good. Great advice thumbs up from me.

[@BLACKIETHOMAS]

Thanks for watching!

[@joesneon]

blackie way to go ! im old school ,thats how i got started 40 yrs ago. i have made many up grades , now its easyer to live in the woods than at home. this sunday will be 28 nights in the woods this season!!! you have done so much for our young folk, you should be proud !!!!

[@georgereeves2699]

You gave us down and dirty woodcraft now you give great down and dirty truth great job thanks

[@tracygallaway886]

Real good advice sir! A newbie here, I probably ought to have watched this months ago, I'm already a bit over-equipped and very under experienced. I have an ALICE pack, MOLLEII rifleman's pack set, MMSS sleep system, tarps, cordage, etc. etc. Now all I want is more time and better weather to go out into! Gonna slow down on scoring gear, and get out more soon as I can! Thanks!

[@Kjelstrup]

Finaly some one that is down to eart an keeps to the esentialls and gives god advices for beginners. I hope you get a lot of viewers. Great job!

[@drewsboats]

I agree, most of these guys regurgitate the same old things then start trying to sell you something. This guy is the real deal.

[@gregknight293]

.........I know that this is an old video, Blackie........ but the common sense you spoke then is still the rule in August 2018..........aint it refreshing how the truth in common sense always stays the same ? Your practical approach to woodcraft will benefit many....as it has me..............and I thank you..............Greg...........

[@bodhi7945]

Can't thank you enough. So many of the "bushcraft" channels seem to be "over-the-top" and some are promoting downright dangerous "skills". Everything you mentioned is completely do-able and affordable. Finally see a path forward for getting the whole family safely and affordably outfitted. It makes the weekends so much more interesting if everyone can practice with their own tools.

[@meddice]

I keep coming back and rewatching your videos Blackie. They are a great reference library. Thanks.

[@MrHatManS]

Sound advice as ever, I started out doing overnighters for me its the reason I bushcraft, so glad to see you covered that aspect for others to use.

[@stevejenkins6045]

One of my favorite videos. loaded with good sense.

[@MeetMeOutside]

Awesome ! some of the best times I have ,are when I "back up" and take gear out that I started with.Simple, easy cheap and FUN ! Great message Blackie.Good work.happy trails

[@kbbjedi]

Really like finding your old videos that I have missed. Always great common sense advice.

[@BLACKIETHOMAS]

glad you liked it safe journeys

[@pflugervillebushcraft8149]

Wonderful video, love the focus on starting small. I did not and have way to much gear now. I need to get some of my gear and sell it or trade it off to those starting. One thing I have done though is I put together what i call my "Extra Kit" that if someone wants to go out but does not have stuff, i can loan it to them and take them out. Its a great way to introduce people to the hobby.

[@boo6145]

You're one of the best blackie, Thankyou sir for your content and skills.

[@BLACKIETHOMAS]

You are very welcome

[@Druetty]

As always, excellent information presented very well. Thanks

[@theknifemaker123]

Thank you for this and the rest of your vid's this one covered everything I've been trying to cover in mine :)

[@wall2rockclimber]

One of the best videos i have watched on YT Mike you have done yourself proud here i have shared this on my forum for my guys to watch!!!!

[@ghrd224]

Thank you for these videos. You make it so simple, and easy to understand.

[@RDM-fc6rd]

I have done a full circle on knives started out cheap. Yes i have hade made knives, high dollar knives. But i love my mora. But know it limits, it will last you forever. Such great advice sir. I have one piece of gear that i will not part with. A six point wool blanket. Love it . New sub. Ronnie. Texas.

[@BLACKIETHOMAS]

thank you ..and welcome to the channel

[@beginnerbushcraft4057]

I came across your videos, I appreciate that you do not push all the brand name and expensive bush craft equipment,gear etc. I also like the way you simplify for beginners, the down to earth attitude in the way your videos come across.I am taking your advice and heading down the path of bushcraft will keep you posted on my experience.

[@BLACKIETHOMAS]

thanks and welcome..feel free to ask any questions you may have..safe journeys

[@billvance2573]

Love your channel. Great down to earth advice.

[@christopherallman4905]

Awsome intro video. Very explanation of basics.

[@Trailtraveller]

Very very good advice, upgrade as you go !! Thumbs up ! The surplus-store gives you a very good start though. I still like to use my mora. Buy some books about wild eatables. But....do not forget to attend some gatherings, there are a lot people to give you advice about do's and dont's.

[@LaurentGouzouAKALynx]

Kind of keep your feet on the ground video. You put here a great philosophy of enjoying outdoors & bushcraft by going to the essentials and remind that the most important is having fun. And I think that your lesson not only apply to beginners but to everyone. Remind me childhood memories. Probably lot of remember when he get his first let say our first swiss army knife and how proud we were and having fun doing stuff with it until one of our friend arrive with one that had more tools on it and there we go. We where not anymore satisfied with the one we owned we need another one. If I can resume my thought: stay out of the appear and the owning and be yourself. Thanks a lot for this Nice video and let you know that I have subscribe. Ciao from Quebec ⚜

[@BLACKIETHOMAS]

thank you safe journeys

[@watermain48]

Great video Blackie, thanks for sharing. Love the concept of ruining something cheap while learning...

[@sharks3010]

Good, practical, honest advice! Thanks for uploading this. I have a weekend coming up were I'll be heading into Dartmoor (UK) and I've been doing quite a bit of research. This is definitely one I'll re-watch to make some notes. Thanks again!

[@TheOutdoorsmanJoe]

another great vid on getting started thnx for sharing.

[@thenrylee]

Since you're addressing the beginner, I'll tell you what I learned in Boy Scouts. In your shirt pocket carry enough toilet paper to do the job. You don't want to be looking for it, or worse, have it back at camp or in the car if it's needed. Like you said, this is supposed to be fun. You can always rough it later. lol

[@Balefulmoon]

Another excellent video. Great information.

[@JohnChandler2006]

tractor supply and harbor freight tools are ideal places to get some "getting started gear." they both also have some wool moving blankets that are like $7-10. not pretty...but warm. same with some inexpensive blue tarps.

[@Mantinae]

Thank you very much for this video, sir. That's Common Sense speaking right there. Greetings from Québec.

[@Pointshooter]

Great video Blackie, I need to get down to basics like we talked about. Definitely a great system, I agree on all the points. Bankline is hard to find some places, we can get the non-tarred twisted line and I guess some folks use that. There's so much focus on survival rather than bushcraft, I know I've jumped over the building blocks in haste over the years. Great video series

[@goldenscales]

Hey there, oracle! Which is part 1, and what order do the vids run in, please? Thanks, brother! Great channel! Ra.

[@phillipmerritt1428]

Blackie that was an impressive video. I've been watching you for about a year and I think that was one of your very best. But I wish you would give Alyssa a little like he's other thing for talk about the five seeds of the 10 C's or the 3 rule where do you stand on those? Not believe you got a lot of knowledge in your books going to be a big hit if you ever get around to it. PS I've got your hat from the Boy Scouts that you wear and you told where to get it it's great. Started carrying a haversack in place of a Daypack lot lighter things working better. Keep the videos coming enjoy them very very much you helping a lot of people find relaxation and comfort maybe saving lives. 🚶💀

[@novascotiansurvival]

It's amazing the gear you can accumulate over time isn't it !!!!

[@paulie4x1]

Say Heah Blackie, Yeah, You alway's bring up some good point's. Infact I like using my Mora 510 as a neck knife when I go with a basic trio carry. One of my Fav. Trio's is my Modified Rodent 6 which I had the blade thinned down to less than a 1/4" and I also had the top guard taken off and they did an outstanding job making me a knife that look's like a Ratmandu on steriods. I add my Huktafors Bruks 17" Agdor Hatchet's, It's one of my Fav's. Because it's compact and the head is 1 3/4lbs. I like that weight and I can still carry it in a axe holster. Eugene made mine he's on KZbin just search Axe Holster's, He also made me my Larger Ferro Rod and Leather Holster it's awesome. He also makes Axe Sheath's. All I wanted to say is he makes quality leather goods. Anyhow, Yeah, I made a mistake with my Rodent 6 I like using my 24" Council Wood Craft Pack Axe with Sheath and Sling, For my 17" Agdor I like my Rodent 5 in a Leather Dangler that I got from Battle Horse, The Sheath plus the Axe Hokster match beautifully. Plus my Wicked Tough Saw Combo. A Trio that's U. S. A. Made. and excellent performer's. But your right about staring with Mora price/quality is great. Infact I converted a Far Nine Sholder Fold Over Camo Purse into my Haversack. I didn't have to do anything to it to make it into my Haversack and I bought it on closeout for $2.99. All I did was filled it with the basic 5C's. I love using it as my Lite Carry with my Mora 2000 as my belt knife, my Mora Hatchet and my Bacho Laplander a Awesome Basic Carry, Your right, I use it hard, But in return it offer's good results. I did step it up a bit by Cross Carrying both of my Fallkniven A-1 and the H-1, Now I could go with my 2Hawks Double Bit Hatchet or my G. B. Small Forest Axe or my 2Hawks Warbrast Tomahawk with it's three sharp edges makes for a great chopper.. But I did understand what you we're saying, Thanx You, Blackie.,,.

[@BLACKIETHOMAS]

glad you enjoyed the vid..safe journeys

[@goldenscales]

Thanks, brother! I'm really enjoying your video's, some I'm watching more than once. You are easy to follow, and you give good, down-to-earth advice. And, I agree whole-heartedly on your view of Kukri's. You are definitely worth the sub! Catch you later! Ra.

[@IBSPLATMAN]

Awesome vid Blackie... As always very informative stuff. I enjoy watching because you always cover something that i may have forgotten in my pack. I know the bank line will sure come in useful for me since I am one of those that really hates cutting paracord. Thank you so much for the helpful ideas... Have you thought about writing a book? You mentioned Dave and Cody's books and was curious if you thought about writing one? I would buy it! =)

[@BingWatcher]

I have only recently discovered your channel and I am really glad to get to learn more. You have a lot of wisdom to share. I am a beginner and putting together a Haversack bag and kit. Just wondering how much a properly stocked bag will weigh, as an injury limits my carrying capacity. Thank You for sharing a reasonable price set up as well, as all too often people equate cost with quality.

[@BLACKIETHOMAS]

weight will depend on the gear..but often when we look around we can find a bit of gear to serve multi task..and thus save weight

[@mikesomerset6338]

Personally, for me, one of the best pieces of kit to have is a vacuum flask. That and a small tupperware box of teabags :-)

[@BLACKIETHOMAS]

those little comforts can make your time afield.a real joy

[@mattmcguire1577]

Murphy says your torch/flashlight battery will be flat when you need it. I carry a wind up one as well. It is not as bright, but will certainly light your way. Using the flashlight on a mobile phone flattens it quickly and leaves you without communication if things get worse.

[@robertmiller2629]

I have a lot of this gear already and my large knife is a toss up of 2 one is a k- bar U.S.M.C. and the other is made from a railroade spike. The problem I have is my sleep system, I don't have one what do you suggest I love military surplus and carry a lot of it especially while hunting. I live in and around the northern wood lands ( east coast and upstate N.Y. ) where I do a lot of hunting and have gotten turned around befor, and befor I started carrying stuff for just in case. Family and friends look on me in a different way but I don't care better to be safe than sorry. But I also don't over do it with weight also. Can you recomend a good lite weight sleep system they will hold up to realy cold weather ( -0 degreas ) and still keep me out of the elements when need be until help arrives?

[@BLACKIETHOMAS]

you ask a very hard question light and yet keep me warm down to the 0F it will not be cheap for me it would be a down bag.. but you will have to look for one

[@Dusk3e]

would you be willing to remake this? the quality makes it a little difficult to determine some items from others

[@paulie4x1]

Say Heah Blackie, Mora finally came out with a full tang, check it out. I think so far it's in stainless, But they (Mora) uses the 12c27 Sandvik Stainless Steel, which some claim is as good as the carbon blades. When properly temper is good steel for a blade. Also they made Ice Skate Blades out of it and Heaven knows the beating my hockey skates took. Yeah it look's pretty good.

[@flyvet46]

i was watching your vid great by the way i have had the same kit that i did when i was a kid and when i joined army it whent with me and when i was in the SF and in the field guys would ask me to sit under the tarp as it rained buckets and guess where their was that right in the billets that was 25years ago i still pack it

[@paulie4x1]

Say Heah Blackie, Check out the Becker BK-4 I use mine as a large knife and I team it with a smaller knife, As a large knife it shine with extra benefits, After all it is called the Machaxe.

[@hopie2007]

i was wondering what i would need to get started...i didn't know if i would need special gear being that i am a girl. my boyfriend watches all of your videos and is really into bushcraft. i wanted to be able to do it with him.

[@stonybrokebushcraf]

great talk and advice brilliant

[@richb8188]

Subscribed. thanks for the video

[@adamalford1167]

Hey will a small rat tail file work for striking a match? I can think of a few ways to use it and I could use a rubber band to attach it to a match container.

[@BLACKIETHOMAS]

+Adam Alford try it i feel only the strike anywhere matches might have a chance..but try and see..safe journeys

[@adamalford1167]

blackoracle69 I have a small one that would work well in a pack if I ever needed to say make an arrow or something where id want a smoother point I will just have to see if it will work with my survival waterproof matches

[@thomasshultz2300]

keep up the good work

[@Ozarkwonderer]

i come back to vid over and over

[@mikesomerset6338]

A well meant, constructive suggestion: As this kind of knowledge becomes more widespread (which is a good thing), one thing I would really like to see is a dedicated video on fire safety. Not just to the person, but to the environment. People need to know the hazards of open fire and how they can become out of control, relight etc. Maybe consider the safer option of a small butane burner and leave the open fire as a last resort. I realise such a video may not be the romantic daydream that some people want to see. However, I think that the more experienced in the community have a responsibility to their followers and to the environment in general.

[@grouseridgephotography9215]

Great video👍

[@BLACKIETHOMAS]

thanks i really need to update this video..safe journeys to you

[@katlinewert293]

what is your swiss army knife, there are so many models with all kinds of options

[@BLACKIETHOMAS]

i am not sure i think it was a 2006 model of the woodsman

[@darenbarnes]

great vid. i realy like your atitude and out look. but i prefer inexpencive gear rather than CHEAP.

[@nicholasramirez2541]

this has been a very informative and helpful lesson, thank you very much for the video, im subscribing because of it, keep them coming brother ;)

[@BLACKIETHOMAS]

@MrhatmanS..thanks this hat is a boy scout scoutmaster hat from the early 90's it will crush up to stuff in a pack and spring back when ya take it out..been my constant woods companion since 94..wow nearly 20 yrs.. thanks for the comment..safe journeys

[@williamvigil2951]

How often do you go out and camp blackie?

[@BLACKIETHOMAS]

about half as often as i would like lol

[@TwoPlusTwoEqualsFive32]

Tools are strange in that regardless of cost they either break, or last for years. I have bought expensive tools that broke after a year, and cheap tools that have lasted me decades. All you need to do is pick tools carefully, pick something robust and it won't break, doesn't matter of it costs 1 dollar, or 300.

[@BLACKIETHOMAS]

sound wisdom.... thanks for the comment ..safe journeys

[@BLACKIETHOMAS]

the pack is a swiss army 1938 pack i picked up surplus...thanks for the comments..safe journeys

[@JuandelaCruz001]

Hello Blackie! What military pack is that?

[@johnniewayneturner4604]

Like your good old guy wisdom

[@BLACKIETHOMAS]

thanks..safe journeys to ya

[@badhat3051]

On the haversack? Small how small is too small? 15x 15 too big? 8x8 too small? or some where in between?

[@BLACKIETHOMAS]

+bad hat i am about to do a haversack video ..stay tuned..thanks for the question..safe journeys

[@badhat3051]

+blackoracle69 Any thoughts on the Stanley folding saw?

[@watermain48]

+bad hat Don't know about the Stanley, but $20 will get you a Stihl PS10 that will do what you need it to do.

[@badhat3051]

+Bill K. Thanks Bill but 2 weeks ago I bought the Stanley 15-333 pocket folding saw I've been pruning stuff around here with it seems to work good and the advantage I see is that its easy to change out dull blades and it will take most any 6 " reciprocating (saws all) blade. need to cut a metal rod or sheet metal? just put on a metal cutting blade. So far I think its great but I could change my mind

[@watermain48]

Sounds like a good tool. I carry the Stihl for just one purpose, cutting wood and it works well for that. I will check out the Stanley folding saw. Thanks.

[@sethwalton2008]

Go old school Man

[@BLACKIETHOMAS]

@ibsplatman..A book? nope ..i read plenty of them..but not sure how to go about writnging one .thanks for the comment..safe journeys

[@BLACKIETHOMAS]

@goldenscales..in this series i think the library is the first ..then the basics..

[@jacksonhill8032]

it is refreshing to hear someone give actual bushcraft recommendations. Not every axe has to be grasnfors bruks

[@BLACKIETHOMAS]

thank you sir..safe journeys

[@jacksonhill8032]

thanks, keep up the amazing work.

[@sethwalton2008]

Thanks u for this one of my fes have a 4 gd get home bag I meed it has a lot of staff but the bathroom 🛀 than I have a $70 get home bag and my fad wus have me u no for my bag I sad to ham a last I am not back a 4 gd bag I sad to u sood got RV. I dot shoold I spend mor now or should I hid off on it my $ 70 bag is get me by now . What do you think on it . Thanks u

[@BLACKIETHOMAS]

always keep a eye out for ways to improve or up grade..keep what you have untill you get better then replace

[@adamalford1167]

$20 for an Old Hickory and a Kbar sheath

[@BLACKIETHOMAS]

+Adam Alford sounds right they work well together

[@adamalford1167]

blackoracle69 They are great as far as I can tell. They come recommended by Canteberry and others so I went ahead and got one

[@matt99is]

Not even a chef has that many knives

[@urbanbushman5137]

Loved this video I myself am just getting into bushcraft If you have a few minutes drop by my channel and check out my pack it's completely waterproof and cost less than 10 bucks

[@BLACKIETHOMAS]

thanks i will..

[@dacow95]

this is a rather quiet video