INFANTRYMAN'S GUIDE: Tools for your fighting position

[@Brent0331]

**Some of the tools shown in the video** E-Tool W/ Cover: bit.ly/3Yayhhe Folding Saw: bit.ly/3mpgyFp Gurkha Kukri style machete: bit.ly/3ZeNu2c Military hatchet: bit.ly/3ERDF1L Military Mattock/Pick Axe (bigger then the one I have in the video): bit.ly/3mnvKDe Lists of books on small unit tactics: www.amazon.com/shop/brent0331 **Guys, Primary Arms is hooking up my subscribers! Just follow the links I have posted below on the scope of your choice, for many of them they will give you a free mount or anti-reflection device (if you go through the below links).** PA SLx 3X Micro Magnifier w/ ACSS Pegasus Ranging Reticle: bit.ly/3DdencH PA SLx Full Size 3X Magnifier: bit.ly/3nLlVgz PA SLx Flip to side magnifier mount: bit.ly/3DPUKXw PA SLx 1X Micro Prism GEN II Cyclops (5.56) Green reticle: bit.ly/3CScIHs PA SLx 1X Micro Prism GEN II Cyclops (5.56) Red reticle: bit.ly/35DM07d PA SLx 1X Micro Prism GEN II Cyclops (5.56) Red reticle FDE: bit.ly/3xlWIfD PA SLx 1X Micro Prism GEN II Cyclops (9mm Gemini model) Green reticle: bit.ly/3DRwMuP PA SLx 1X Micro Prism GEN II Cyclops (9mm Gemini model) Red reticle: bit.ly/3xxJe0N PA 3X Compact Prsim Scope ACSS 5.56 GEN III (Black) bit.ly/2ANgbwQ PA 3X Compact Prism Scope ACSS 7.62x39/300 Blkout GEN III (Black) bit.ly/3h7B7Pw PA 1-8X Scope with Patented ACSS 5.56 / 5.45 / .308 Reticle bit.ly/2SPbNob PA GLx 2X Prism W/ ACSS 5.56/308/5.45: bit.ly/2XI0wYu PA GLx 2X Prism W/ ACSS 7.62x39/300 BO: bit.ly/2A613ux PA SLx Advanced Push button Micro Red Dot Sight: bit.ly/38aKaNn Holosun HS507C-V2 ACSS Vulcan HG pistol sight: bit.ly/3k4blgM PA SLx CYCLOPS 1X PRISM (GEN II): bit.ly/35DM07d PA SLx MD-25 optic (RED DOT): bit.ly/3fc14iJ PA SLx MD-25 optic (ACSS RETICLE): bit.ly/348aPaB PA Advanced Micro Dot w/ rotary knob bit.ly/2CjTCjr PA SLx Advanced Push button Micro Red Dot Sight: bit.ly/38aKaNn Holosun HS503G RDS W/ ACSS bit.ly/2r7gCd3 PA 1-6X24 FFP ACSS RAPTOR 5.56 / 5.45 / .308 BLACK bit.ly/2XnyrVO PA 1-6 FFP ACSS RAPTOR 7.62x39 / 300 Blk out bit.ly/33oS97s PA 1-8 SLx ACSS RAPTOR 5.56 / 5.45 / .308 bit.ly/38GcyoZ PA 1-8 PLATINUM FFP RAPTOR 5.56 bit.ly/2zqXYBo PA COMPACT PLx 1-8x24mm FFP RAPTOR ACSS M8 (Meters): bit.ly/3OrXw9W PA COMPACT PLx 1-8x24mm FFP RAPTOR ACSS M8 (Yards): bit.ly/3b58Zyx PA 30mm PLx Cantilever Mount -1.5" (mount for this optic): bit.ly/3PxpvWR PA PLx Top-Cap Reflex Mount 30mm: bit.ly/3YfiKgY PA 1-6X24mm SFP Riflescope with Patented ACSS 5.56 / 5.45 / .308 Reticle Gen III bit.ly/2BD73bB PA 1-6X24mm SFP Riflescope Gen III with K.I.S.S. Reticle bit.ly/2SUbxEo PA 1-6X24mm SFP Riflescope with Patented ACSS 22LR Reticle bit.ly/2N8fj7P PA 1-6X24mm SFP scope w/ACSS 300BLK/ 7.62X39 Reticle bit.ly/2N6Qut9 PA 1-6X24mm SFP Riflescope Gen III with Patented ACSS 22LR Reticle bit.ly/2N8fj7P PA GLx 4-16 w/ ACSS HUD DMR reticle: bit.ly/2DDfrvW PA SLx 3-18 ACSS HUD DMR .308: bit.ly/3k3fVf5 Trijicon ACOG TA31 4x32 Scope USMC RCO model: bit.ly/2EQIMhg Camouflage painting stencils: PA Tiger Stripe Stencil: bit.ly/2Dqzafa PA Multi Terrain pattern stencil: bit.ly/2Izaxkt PA Flecktarn stencil: bit.ly/2DwfMxb PA Digital camouflage stencil: bit.ly/2W0PvOP **Here's a few links to good deals on Sportsman’s guide on USGI surplus gear**: (Using coupon code "WARPOET" also give you $20 off purchases of $100) WINTER FORGE GEAR: Multicam gortex parka: bit.ly/3FXvXBI Multicam gortex pants: bit.ly/3FoRoym Marshmallow suit jacket (Coyote): bit.ly/3yM4phv USGI snow camo parka: bit.ly/33yc0ne USGI snow camo pants: bit.ly/3qK06PX USGI Intermediate cold weather boots: bit.ly/32PqI8T Swiss Gaiters: bit.ly/32xkJW3 USGI Artic wool socks: bit.ly/3qgf1PA Gortex Bivy Sack: bit.ly/3sU4rl6 Green bag: bit.ly/32GNRup Intermediate sleeping bag: bit.ly/3PaVnjK Poncho liners: bit.ly/3A57DdW USMC Iso matt: bit.ly/3C7VVRL USGI sleeping bag compression bag: bit.ly/2z14nCR Base layer: bit.ly/3fZ7XCf USGI Grid fleece: bit.ly/3eO0N43 USGI Grid pants: bit.ly/3eShXxf USMC service sweater: bit.ly/3sU5IbS Watch cap "beenie": bit.ly/3FQTqVg Grid neck gaiter (3 pack): bit.ly/3FYG9Kg Sniper veil (2 pack): bit.ly/3NOJcYN Nomex flight gloves Summer version: bit.ly/3fuyU1E USGI Nomex cold weather gloves: bit.ly/3sVajdV USGI cold weather gloves: bit.ly/3ONS5TC USGI Trigger finger mittens (OD): bit.ly/3AxQXiF USGI trigger finger mittens (Woodland): bit.ly/3qOk7nd French Trigger finger mittens: bit.ly/3zseSOc British gortex mittens: bit.ly/334dCUY German E-Tool: bit.ly/3Rk5gNJ USGI canteen (1 qt): bit.ly/3AmqWQj USGI canteen (2 qt): bit.ly/3lrv9hh USGI ALICE load bearing equipment: bit.ly/3yNKpeB USGI Laundry bags (3 pack): bit.ly/3rPUKlb USGI ALICE WP bag (2 pack): bit.ly/3ftoXS4 USGI ballistic eye pro: bit.ly/2LBLXSR Folding saw: bit.ly/3FVxbxD USGI UCP surplus pack: bit.ly/3ftvLPC PA SLx MD-25 optic (RED DOT): bit.ly/3fc14iJ INFORCE White/IR weapon mounted light: bit.ly/3DZNtoH DBAL IR laser: bit.ly/3mVf970 Other good Sportsmansguide deals: Garmin Foretrex wrist GPS (a lot of grunts use these): bit.ly/3dHFyRb Multicam Anorak: bit.ly/2IH3N5f USGI Woodland Coveralls: bit.ly/3p9myPH USGI Mosquito head net: bit.ly/3NX2oUo BOTH OD & Woodland ponchos AND boonies combo: bit.ly/3CgVBjo Used Army ruck (UCP camo but you can always spray paint it): bit.ly/3ftvLPC **BODY ARMOR** LEVEL III - IV Plates: bit.ly/3nP2AuK **Crossfire packs**: crossfirepacks.com/ COUPON CODE: "BrentCF10" at check out and get 10% off on your order **This website sells a lot quality reproductions of vintage camouflage patterns**: onlinemilitaria.net/shopaff.asp?affid=1608 **Great DEAL on Palmetto State Armory lowers to complete this build on a budget! 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[@101stgrunt6]

Hey bro, ounces equal pounds......

[@HardcoreFourSix]

I know that Brent knows this, but for the less-experienced viewers, using E-tools and other compact tools as shown here to dig holes (other than a cat hole) and to cut logs sucks. When I was in Mechanized Infantry units, our tracks had "pioneer tools" mounted on them. D-handle shovel, pick-mattock, machete, axe, sledgehammer and a tanker's bar. Sometimes we could get a crosscut saw as well. These full-sized tolld were much more effective than the rucksack versions. When I was in Light Infantry, we sometimes got supplied with some full sized tools when we were in a deliberate defense. The 1SG had the company's sole Humvee and he could deliver the tools to us. In rocky ground (NTC) we could do little but stack rocks into walls, until the COmbat Engineers showed up with their SEE to scrape trenches in the rock. If you have time and access to better tools, it might be worth the effort to "acquire " more effective tools:)

[@ourvaluesarewhoweareinadem4093]

That is why I always carry a straight-handled shovel. Not full size, but not tiny. Sharpen each side and it doubles as an axe and decent mechete. Having full sized tools is great, but sucks to hump them.

[@corporaterobotslave400]

Backhoe tractor for the win. ;)

[@behindthespotlight7983]

See my comment down thread. I basically suggested the same thing-operating unconstrained by military TO&E. Checked just now and Amazon has Aimes D handle pioneer shovels for $23 (as of March 7, 2023) I bet they weigh the same as my tri-folds -they’re just like carrying the WW2 style length on ones ruck.

[@tomcatt998]

I remember year's ago a vice grip ad claiming that U could rebuild a engine with just a pair of vise grips.🤣

[@MazzBCD]

This falls into the category of work smarter not harder. Why stand if you can sit, sit if you can lay, lay if you can sleep.

[@user-eo4ps7re5e]

Folding saw is also a lot quieter than the hatchet, especially at long distances.

[@winningproductions520]

From what I've read, Australian soldiers in Vietnam would use pruning shears instead of a machete to reduce noise moving through the bush. I use them deer hunting to cut through blackberry bushes. Another great video Brent. Cheers.

[@anonymousprepper1463]

hell I've always just walked through them slowly.

[@tomcatt998]

VERRRY SLOWLY

[@KillrMillr7]

One more reason why I loved the steel pot. For those who remember, it was a huge part of your kit, great for digging out fighting holes, E tool sucks throwing out the dirt, especially if you’re in a hurry. Then you rinsed it out and made a pot of coffee.

[@asmith7876]

Good for holding bath and shaving water too! Plus policing up spent shells.

[@calummcneil6006]

Great video thanks, I use all the tools you have exhibited, except for the machete and the gurka tool. I sold off my U. S. Army machete, it had a saw back blade. A collector wanted for his U. S. Army. Vietnam set up, he wanted all my genuine kit, even down to the water purification bottle with original contents and dated label. He even got himself a Ford. Mutt. He lived in the Channel Islands near France.

[@roccosfondo8748]

Great video! I would add a pair of heavy duty working gloves. Blisters and thorns are quite common when you do such works.

[@SGTCap1980]

Glock made etools long before they made guns. They still make them and they weigh about a pound less than the GI etool

[@farmerwayne1404]

Thier field knife is good also.

[@behindthespotlight7983]

Glock’s bayonet style belt knives seem to be holding the line pretty damn good at the under $45 mark too. Kinda in the “more than Mora but not quite Buck or Gerber” category

[@SGTCap1980]

I'm not a fan of their field knife. It's tough but the edge geometry is garbage. It's too narrow and too light for my taste. It really is a sharpened prybar. I tried to like it, but I just can't. I'd rather have a mora. Even though it's not as tough as least it functions as a knife. There's a lot of good options out there at prices similar to the Glock field knife.

[@farmerwayne1404]

@SGTCap1980 It is truly a field knife. But to each his own...

[@mattfleming86]

I like the glockenspade and its frequently in my kit. The USGI is heavier and a little nicer to dig with but I typically dont need to dig more than a shjt hole so the weight is nice. I also ditched that stupid worthless "saw" in the handle, took some thick closed cell foam material and glued in a plug at the bottom of the upper section, and put a pair of gloves in there. Thin black milwaukee spandex rubber palms. Extra insulating later if needed, and you can keep your real gloves dry if you're digging.

[@jarnhund376]

Cheers from Ukraine! Thanks for the videos, brother. Taught me a lot before the ruzkie invasion, and I keep learning from them now. Indeed, the tactics here has more in common with WW1 than Afghanistan of Iraq. Even us hiigh-speed guys dig in whenever we make a stop. A simple 'ranger grave' can make a life and death difference when there's a 152 sighted in on you. Most of our entrenching gear is still the old MPL-50 style soviet era unfoldable shovels, though. Good digging and, to some extent, chopping - provided that you sharpen it. Otherwise, it's a chore to carry around this half-meter chunk of history. Thanks again for the knowledge, man. Weighs nothing to carry, still carried me through some shitty places here. Слава Україні!

[@morokolli6813]

The E-tool will never die

[@thelittlestmig3394]

I would suggest replacing pruning shears with tin snips. Extra capability to manipulate sheetsteel and such is pretty nice. They can also cut wire if you're willing to abuse them.

[@CORNDODGER]

My Kbar is a WIRE CUTTER

[@andy_in_nh9243]

@@CORNDODGER Thanks for reminding me to never let you borrow my K-Bar. 😉

[@CORNDODGER]

@@andy_in_nh9243 HA HA HA LOL Andy my Kbar and its sheath combine to make a WIRE CUTTER Its a Eickhorn 4000

[@mexican-panzer6946]

Always love to see another Infantrymans guide video. These are really helpful. Thank you!

[@michaelmalone4981]

One of the points I don't think got mentioned here (I may have missed it) is that one of the greatest uses for, pruners, folding saws, hatchets, and pickaxes is cut through roots when building your positions. Also having a couple of full size shovels, a pick-axe, a medium size axe, and larger hand saw for cutting larger limbs and timber to use as over head cover is also essential. For the larger hand tools we would take them on position and leave them there so as the teams cycle in and out they each group could use them to continually improve the positions. If we where assaulting a position larger hand tools where left with the rucks or with the immediate resupply items to be brought forward once the objective was taken and a position was chosen. E-tools are an essential must have piece of kit but no where as efficient as their full size counter parts. When the enemy has a general idea where you are time is critical. It also helps cut down on fatigue.

[@yfelwulf]

Usually if vehicles are nearby you can obtain larger tools and multiples of them

[@bryanfaulkenburg462]

On your folding saw a nice sharp 90 spine is nice for sparking a ferro rod. All edges of the e tool need a somewhat edge for cutting brush to be used as a machete and a little bit of athletic tape for like a hockey stick on the handle is nice for grip. Lastly a modified machete with the sweet spot being a convex grind bevel and the lower bevel by the handle reprofile to a scandi grind for finer carving in nice . The addition of a sharpen 90 degree spine and the same grip tape if needed is a great addition as well .

[@ApocGuy]

i carry lineman pliers as EDC. love my multitool, but the work i do, even leatherman wont stand for long time. small bowsaw is great too (if you're building LP op its invaluable just like pickaxe), and i've ditched thse foolding e-tools and get "soviet style" wooden handle shovel. sure its not a good at digging as e-tool, but i've been using one for nearly 10 years and it shows absolutely no wear and tear. Bonus, its so damn sharp that can be used for chopper in a pinch. overall great tut, superb explanation. greatly thanks for this.

[@kurtbaier6122]

I use a Cold steel Shovel with a shortened handle, for clearing brush and for digging a hasty shallow fighting position, and shallow trench latrine. And I can also chop a long branch and mount the shovel head to it for deeper digging as well. The CS shovel is as light as your Kukri machete and lets you leave the heavy shovel, hatchet and short or long Machete back at the fob. I dulled one long edge of the shovel so I can grip the shovel head when scraping away dirt or debris. And it can also be used as a hammer, although it is loud. And finally the CS shovel makes a formidable hand to hand weapon should that need ever arise. It’s multi functional and bad ass. I use a hammer with a pike like end to bust up clay and it’s lighter than a mattock. And can be used for hammering heavier stakes. Eighteen inches of compacted soil or compacted frozen snow will stop a round. Two collapsible buckets per battle buddy team will help in moving soil or getting rid of soil around the fighting position to cut down on drone detection. And can aid in quick procurement of water for the both men or fire team. And I agree the folding saw is absolutely essential as well.

[@jeffsilverman6080]

I have the upmost respect for infantrymen and the field craft you show on your videos great work

[@jakewolynski5239]

The pop up pouch for folding saw was a great idea, thanks for sharing, just ordered myself a pouch for my saw

[@asmith7876]

Corporals Corner channel has built some insane shelters using the tri-fold but also a Vietnam era shovel which is larger, and has the pick. My Army tri-fold is US made by Ames, I finally found a source for the older model, also an Ames! If you can stand the weight the older model is way better for actual work. Moving sand with a tri-fold sucks! Nice video.

[@CitadelDefense1]

Fantastic. Thanks as always. You should consider doing a similar video on breaching tools.

[@DJTheMetalheadMercenary]

Good stuff brother!!! I always break the folding E-Tools (I've gone through 4 so far), so I use a small fixed handle Shovel from Home Depot and lash it to my Ruck.

[@jeredhersh789]

I like those little soviet style E tools made by cold steel. The blade is about the size of a normal e-tool, with a 16 inch wood handle. They're nice and not too expensive at around $25

[@DJTheMetalheadMercenary]

@@jeredhersh789 Yes those are great!!! So is the CS SOF Model Tool, basically the same thing.

[@rpnbf8196]

Your buddy in the afghan pic has a great hawk…a RMJ…a serious tool for certain jobs.

[@andy_in_nh9243]

The post Vietnam Tri-folding E-Tool can also be used as an adequate field chair. I don't know if we had a bad batch of them, but I've seen many of those E-Tools break the bolt between the blade and the shaft when chopping into hard ground - we replaced them with grade 8 bolts from the local hardware store. The folding saw is great for fabricating aiming stakes.

[@trevorh6438]

What is an aiming stake?

[@andy_in_nh9243]

@@trevorh6438 they are a pair of (usually wooden) stakes pounded vertically into the ground just in front of a fighting position used to limit the sector of fire during darkness or periods of reduced visibility.

[@trevorh6438]

@@andy_in_nh9243 Oh! If I hadn't encountered that concept before elsewhere, I'd have had no idea what you were talking about. Now I do. Thanks. So its different from a line picket which is what it sounded like to me originally.

[@geegaw14]

Look at photos from WW2 of Canadian and British soldiers towards the end of the war. Just about every man was carrying a full size pick or shovel for digging in. The compact stuff is better than nothing, but nothing is better than full size implements.

[@behindthespotlight7983]

A pair of Felco pruners is THE number one tool I think of when watching bushcraft channels making pine bough beds, shelters or breaking up straight lines. If one springs for the $100 pair (over the identical in appearance $35 options) they have a removable blade that can be tuned up on ones knife stone, axe puck or even a river rock. If Felco pruners are kept razor sharp and oiled they can slice through a 1/2 inch cedar bough no problem. All the Greensmen in the movie & TV biz use Felco’s and wear them EDC like everyone else wears a multi tool

[@renaissancemarinetv3536]

i had the honor of serving under (then) Col Ron Christmas. he had our supply come up with and issue ONLY wooden handle E tools. he said they were better as a weapon.

[@AlexanderEddy]

Great video as always Brent, thanks for sharing the wisdom

[@zacsmith6736]

Great content, as always, I tend to go for a little larger shovel if I can. E-Tools feel too much like toys to me. I have built a folding shovel with a full sized head that works better for me. The addition of a mattock/pick makes a lot of sense, Personally I carry a tomahawk in place of a hatchet, has better potential as a last resort weapon as well. I do agree with Brent on the gurkha, a little smaller than a machete, but give up little in cutting ability. The state I live in, you can go from little underbrush to heavy vegetation in a few miles. Makes a versatile kit important...

[@fmike15]

Having been stationed in Germany as a Combat Engineer in the 80's we were lucky to have full sized shovels which made digging a lot easier. I would definitely consider carrying one in the field if I knew I would be entrenching.

[@Fightosaurus]

Love it, Brent! Thanks for great info!!!

[@torsten4757]

Thank`s for showing!

[@pufthedragonCCS]

Very under rated topic. I bought a SOG e-tool a while ago, but I'm so afraid it'll break that I've never used it. I can only imagine what will happen if my life depended on it.

[@Valorius]

Get a gi etool

[@CORNDODGER]

SOG WENT CHYNEES

[@woodsghost9088]

Use the dang tool. If it breaks better to find out NOW and find a replacement than find out in an emergency and have no replacement.

[@karamelles98]

Indeed overlooked topic, thanks!

[@timothywilliams8907]

Great video. I myself, like to be a little bit tool heavy with my gear out in the bush. I've never seen one of the mattocs before, and will have to try to find one. I have the rest of the tools that you mentioned, and each one can definitely be a lifesaver when you're out in the bush crafting shelters, hides, etc.

[@ftdefiance1]

The pick makes sense to me. I broke e-tools in Korea, breaking up frozen ground.

[@journeyman7189]

Excellent breakdown, I always carry a saw. Easy, quiet and safe to use. Plus I add in the CS special forces shovel. Great digging tool, good at chopping and a hell of a self defence weapon. Nate

[@flyoverkid55]

Good stuff. I have acquired a short, non folding shovel, with spade handle. It's about 32" and just a few ounces more than my folding shovel, but moves dirt much faster. Folding saw is a must, when establishing a patrol base they are indispensable.

[@ms.annthrope415]

I have two E tools under the rear seat compartment in my 3/4 diesel truck. One is a standard US military folding E Tool and one I bought at the Glock Store, made. Y Glock with a straight handle with a saw blade in the handle that can be installed to saw branches. I also carry two tomahawks with one pointed end to use as a pick as well as a hatchet or axe. Also carry a kukri machete, a SOG kukri machete, and a SOG 107C Steel Eagle, large enough to chop and slash branches. Also have a space blanket and light sticks.

[@ziggurat-builder8755]

“Gentlemen”. Spot on. Perfect. Yes sir. I’m subscribing!

[@Brent0331]

Welcome aboard!

[@ourvaluesarewhoweareinadem4093]

I use a surplus Spanish e-tool. About the same size as the M1943 but does not fold. I have taken a grinder to each of the lateral sides of the shovel and gotten them quite sharp so it doubles very well as an axe and it works pretty well as a machete (used in NW Oregon forests.) A bit heavier and bulkier, but being able to combine three tools into one I think it is a great piece of gear.

[@TacticoolVIKINGBeard]

For the pruning shears, as a former landscaper i highly recommend a pair of FELCO shears either a #2 or #4. Theyre like 40$ but they have rebuild kits for them and will last a lifetime.

[@fluffyrider9467]

Thanks for this! I like the hatchet for bush craft but for the soldier I can see why it’s less desirable.

[@deronflores3165]

This video along with your other infantry guides are so interesting and helpful thanks for making them and keep it up ❤💯

[@davidjackson7744]

Greetings from over the pond, great video as always. FYI the mini mattock/pick handle will also fit into acoldsteel trail hawk. Stag on

[@GruntProof]

Outstanding

[@raf321]

The USGI MOLLE "ALICE Adapter" can be used to secure items with M-1910 "Hooks" or "ALICE Clips" to modern PALS platforms. The slightly more expensive USGI MOLLE "K-BAR Adaptor" can do the same as well as securing items with single belt loops (knife scabbard) to PALS platforms.

[@americanmilitiaman88]

I chased a guy that was trying to steal stuff from my pick up. I was armed with that E tool. I was in Afghanistan the year prior and had just got out of the navy. Luckily for that guy and me he dropped my stuff and ran.

[@vaitomanocu5562]

Rocking the DG3 artic warfare

[@holtbrent]

Good stuff. love these videos!

[@woodsghost9088]

Home Depot/ACE/Lows/Tractor Supply/etc will have shovels in the 20-24 inch range and those can be nice. Council Tool has good hatchets. Or my stores listed above will have hatchets. I see online there are usually 3lb mattocks and picks for sale. Can be cut down to size for easier carry. Other sizes can be had online (gardening pick in 1-2 lb range) All of it can be spraypainted green or whatever color is needed. Brent's links are excellent of course. There are additional sizes and options out there too.

[@woodsghost9088]

Remember to use vegetation for UAV concealment. And renew vegetative concealment when it starts to drop or change color. No good to be a big patch of dead brown foliage surrounded by green living stuff.

[@marcmurph6998]

Field craft/pioneering is becoming a lost art. Out on a FTX, watching the desk jockeys, hang the water bladder outside the TOC tent door. Was entertaining. Every desert creature that doesn't respect you? Was there the next morning. I told e'm that, that was a bad Idea. Meh! What did I know? I was just a Staff Sergeant with a G.E.D..

[@danielsterling4918]

That's an educational system problem 😂 get mortgage size debt to buy a piece of paper that certifies your longer Johnson, amirite?

[@N0M0RENAME]

Appreciate your content mr

[@Valorius]

Folding entrenching tools also make outstanding field chairs

[@rajeevprabhu6722]

Bill hook, Koita, mashidis or parang are excellet in such tropical vegetations...!

[@karl28560]

I bought a surplus Russian bayonet a few years ago. Take the scabbard and there's a tab that inserts into the bayonet to make another tool. Presto! A wire cutter for barbed wire and fencing.

[@ronaldrobertson2332]

The U.S. M-9 bayonet and scabbard are supposed to be that same tool.

[@AnthonyBueno-wj2xi]

Never thought about carrying a machete or pick axes for my bugout bag/assault pack, I add it to my gear list.

[@enlightenedpreparingep4006]

I have a hand axe that is brutally badass. It’s made from A10 steel (armor) at like a half inch. It’s a bit heavy and don’t as wieldy as some other battle hatchets I’ve seen but it’s aBEAST eats up cinderblock. I slip it in front of a soft amour panel on my back. Side note here I put a fire blanket under my front plate ) don’t recall the brand of the hand axe I think it’s Boker. I’ll update later. I’m in the field now. I use a small Ferber hatchet a lot doing tree work. It has a handsaw in the handle so it’s pretty niche. A few other tools I would not leave home without. Electricians 11 in 1 screw driver and this small bit case that has an assortment of security bits and a couple wood spade drill bits. Lineman’s pliers. A cat paw that is cat on 1side and flat on the other and a titanium hammer 🔨 ( which says nothing). So with the cat paw and hammer you can reclaim nails and reuse lumber. A mechanic prybar which is pointy on one end with a small toe on the other. Well worthy note. Im working with a USMC ILBE and or Agilte K19 with the rucksack attachment. if I have to put kit on and go to work I’m figuring I’m not coming home. So I got it full of the things. Even got a set of glow in the dark dice 🎲 🎲 a deck of cards and 4 balls 1 racquet 1 super bounce and a pair of Miracle balls they deflate and weigh nothing and take little to no space. Can be used therapeutically as designed as pillows or to give a little buoyancy if needed. I know it sounds stupid but I keep a water wing in there too for the same reason plus with the wing you can easily float someone a line ice need be. But I digress. Semper Fi 💥👊🏻🖍⚔️🖍🙏🇺🇸☦️

[@ryanj.getler7142]

Soon-to-be USMC 2Lt Here (1 month from commissioning): Would you be willing to do a video on specific tactical/admin roles within a platoon? What are the roles of a Platoon Commander? Platoon Sergeant? Maybe a video on the Kit setup for a Platoon Commander?

[@TEXASREDD76]

Valuable skills for days ahead

[@johndevitt2164]

Outstanding Brent, it's one of those topics where you have to be looking at it rather than. Just as a suggestion, those trenches in Ukraine, if it is known you are going to be in the defense, well a few equipped with screw guns, boxes of screws, wood/metal, spare batteries you could put anything together, might even be a stairs, the deeper the trench. But seriously, those trenches in Ukraine, there was a screw gun or two. If you are on that next level, krylon to keep camo squared away.

[@tomm2812]

Consider a flat file w wooden handle to put and keep shovel blade and machete super sharp. Helps to cut through roots and other...things. Best

[@christophersteingart2237]

I like having a folding bow saw and a forest axe. Logs can be more helpful against flack and small arms fire than dirt berms alone.

[@trollmcclure1884]

yeah, and a full size shovel and pickaxe mounted on a vehicle. Better yet an excavator and reinforced concrete structures

[@christophersteingart2237]

@@trollmcclure1884 You crack me up. The things I listed are technically packable by dismounted troops, and I take them with me camping, especially in winter. 😂

[@jamesheldman4659]

Great video. Thank you

[@cantstartafire]

Outstanding. BZ

[@protectpersevere2030]

Great stuff

[@bobbertbobberson6725]

I made some good vehicle hides in Michigan with the cav squadron in summer with just a Kabar clone (OKC) and a hand saw. I mean, opened fire with an M240 on a TOW truck, good. You can hide a lot more things than you'd think given enough foilage.

[@yfelwulf]

I recommend ANVIL TYPE shears not Bypass like you have yours cut with a very loud SNIP sound ANVIL shears have one blade that presses against a flat ABSOLUTELY SILENT and actually cut better. The old school entrenching tool still reigns supreme. And I love all types of mini saws and Bow Saws they cut thick trees much rapido seniore good for OHP. Axes are heavy and excessively noisy compared to a Bow Saw that weighs almost nothing in comparison. Machete mixed feelings rarely used, usually you want to move with minimal disruption to vegetation for obvious reasons. I do 👍👍 give two thumbs up for the mini pick.

[@TheOnlySgtRock]

Nice video. Good information.

[@alphawolfgang173]

entrenching tools. more people need them.

[@martinbeagle1798]

One thing to keep in mind is that you will have to retighten the locking nut on the e-tool since the vibrations from use will constantly be loosening it.

[@nelson0110]

Your new video came up in my recommended feed ,but not my notification feed. Just letting you know.

[@alanrice39]

Just got a Gerber entrenching tool, a machete is a must for me.

[@iainbaker6916]

Excellent video. Machetes - quite handy for … er… the other types of ‘work’ an infantryman might need to do. 😎

[@echosr2139]

Indeed

[@georgesakellaropoulos8162]

The 18" Ontario Knife machete is prone to breakage. We did not have this problem with the 22" model. The 22" model was very reliable over 10 years in the land surveying business.

[@johnr1457]

Awesome think I’ll add A hand saw to my kit.

[@mawilkinson1957]

I have always found the USGI folding E-tool to be a POS. I prefer the long handled Viet Nam era wood handled shovel or the Soviet Spetnaz short shovel, also made by Cold Steel. They are bullet proof. I also have the Stihl folding saw that you have and love it. It is superior to many of the folding saws, and very lightweight. I wish I had the USGI pick/Maddox.

[@watchmanonthewall2151]

Appreciated!

[@12footsativa]

Seems like a good fence tool would be nice to have as well

[@12footsativa]

Some small camp axes have them on the bottom of the head

[@Valorius]

Once you get over a certain diameter of branch a hatchet blows away a folding saw, it depends on the size of the wood that you have to cut

[@Punisher9419]

Bow saw. You can get folding ones as well that don't take up much space at all and are very light. A hatchet is nice though, just not always safe to use or carry around. Only take a little tumble and you fall onto it to put you out. There are also much larger folding saws like Silky ones. I tend to just use axes to split wood instead of cutting, they aren't that great at cutting. They are the best at splitting wood though , they just seem to require more energy to cut wood with instead of a saw. There are also those little manual chain saws you can keep in a pouch. I bet those are pretty cool. It's really nice there are lots of options out there, for firewood an axe would be relaly nice esspcially.

[@Valorius]

@@Punisher9419 if you're going to carry a hatchet a good scabbard is a must, i agree with you there.

[@Punisher9419]

@@Valorius A sheath or scabbard goes without saying. It's asking for trouble to not have one. Lots of nice tools though.

[@tdubbs934]

I was a medic in the 173rd. 07-08 Afghanistan. Did some dustoff and attached to 11b’s etc. i have a feeling with everything going in the world I might be doing it again…

[@15halerobert]

Plus except for the garden shears all the other tools make fantastic weapon in the confines of a trench or bunker or even a simple fox hole

[@therulesaredifferent8280]

Thanks Brent

[@OldNavajoTricks]

Just missing some drill bits and cordage, perfect shelter kit 👍

[@Stoney_AKA_James]

I bet some of those tools would be handy during your "adventures" in Nth CA!

[@brentwentfishing]

New subscriber here! Stokermatic sent me! 😁

[@chandlercase1304]

Fun fact, many people prefer the older, Soviet style entrenching shovels. They can't fold over like a e-tool, but are several ounces lighter. Pros and cons to everything.

[@justsomeguyontheinternet5331]

Spetznaz shovels also function as a hatchet and melee weapon

[@JavierChiappa]

Here in South America Tramontina has a very nice folding shovel, that watching this video i saw it's the Vietnam era type, with the wooden handle that is quite more sturdy than the "chinese" version of the triangular type E tool. It's in the middle of the russian and the american types

[@kentallard8852]

that soft entrenching tool case looks like it is big enough for the folding saw and shears to go in, probably wouldn't put them in the hardshell case cause they'd rattle around too much

[@STOKERMATIC]

Etool is also great for slaying commies! Great video brother.

[@Brent0331]

It sure is!

[@roccosfondo8748]

I have a question: how many empty sandbags you think is good to carry in the pack?

[@ChrisLichowicz]

All a Marine Grunt needs is an E-tool and a fine flat bastard file. Semper fi!

[@Fallenlords1969]

Nice video. Out of interest, the sandbags (they are filling with dirt) does everybody take a certain amount? Or is it something supplied later when you secure a position? (Sorry not military - so may be a daft question).

[@11ccom]

Dam good stuff.

[@TheBKnight3]

Requesting a bayonet tutorial 🙂. Some have interesting features (scabbard wire cutter).

[@GhosthoundYT]

my etool broke when i use it in the pickaxe config. the center piece was rusted. I did not take care of my equipment well, and also i think its much more durable to use it as a shovel. Dont repeat my mistake, take care of your equipment, and they will take care of you.

[@haraldweiss8487]

Inside the Glock is also a sharp saw the benefit is you need no additional one.

[@behindthespotlight7983]

If you’re in vehicle conveyances, toying around with those tiny tools BLOWS. Question for veterans: if one knows their AO before heading out it seems like even Harbor Freight shovels with a foot or two cut off the handles would provide much faster construction of defensive fighting positions?Question number 2: ounce for ounce an Aimes style shovel bungeed to a ruck would still provide 3-4x the shoveling capabilities (whereas a full size shovel probably provides 8-10x) I’m just trying to think in terms of an ad hoc force unconstrained by military TO&E. Sort of like comrades with military leadership but plenty of Home Depot gear & donated gear

[@abbybonilla4511]

E-Tools, hatchet, and Machetes can be used as last ditch CQC weapons

[@themenace4017]

Brett couple friends and myself watched one of your older videos titled “Basic Ops. Night fighting operations”, several questions came up.. if you or someone can help with these we would appreciate it…. If a Nikon or Crimson Trace series 3, 4 or 5 FFP scope was being used on any long gun …. Can a thermal monocular mounted on a helmet be used for such events as “hog or coyote night hunting” and have very good viewing through both I may have to try this comment on your next video…. I generally am unavailable on Monday nights for your live video but will try or your next if necessary

[@horatiodreamt]

Good vid. Ames e-tool.

[@georgehorkan7205]

I'm gonna tell on myself here. I served from 1974 through 1982. I always had this fantasy about trying to split an enemies helmet and into his brain. Yea I know; sick right? My shrink thought so too. Besides being a weapon it was a handy little tool. Believe me; I know weight counts. I'd still carry one. Heck; in my first assignment we had a scout sniper who carried a total of five knives. What's my point? Just saying. Thanks for your recommendations. RLTW