Pencil Sharpeners, Winter Survival Kits And Neck Knife Safety

Can pencil sharpeners be used for making fire starting shavings? Yes but, a knife can do that and a whole lot more! I often get asked why I dont carry a pencil sharpener and in this video I pretty much show why I do not. I also show an example of a winter time minimalist survival kit and I talk about the safe way of wearing a neck knife.

[@TheDavewatts]

The sharpener attached to the ferro rod sheath cracked me up.😂👍🏻

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Lol, I thought that would be hilarious. Thanks for watching Dave

[@dennispeterson3691]

Always informative. Great video!

[@robinbrown378]

"Boy, I wish I had a knife." Cracked me up.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Lol, that's the scenario for some

[@robinbrown378]

What a hoot! Still laughing.​@Reallybigmonkey1

[@martinhafner2201]

We've been using pencil sharpeners in boy scouts for a long time. Just those cheap little plastic ones that you can get a package of 20 at the dollar store. A lot of the boys don't have the knife skills (especially sharpening) to get good shavings with a knife, so the sharpeners quickly show them the value of having a sharper knife and better feathersticking skills.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Now I can see that being a good use for them. Thanks for watching Martin

[@kukaliemikalie8157]

Are modern Americans afraid of knives somehow?

[@davidmessinger2784]

I don't get to outdoor stores often and haven't seen any bivy bags. At 73 yrs. I have only bought two things online. I love the idea of filling the bivy bags with leaves, so I was thinking that two large heavy duty trash bags would work as well. Frontiersmen carried "tick bags" to fill with leaves/grass. One of the best night's sleep I've ever had ((I have insomnia) was on a winter camping trip where I was using a pop up hunting blind as a tent and had filled it with a very deep pile of leaves. I'm saving this excellent video in my survival folder.

[@gordonlawrence1448]

There is rip resistant nylon you can get. I made my tarps from it and I have an8 foot by 4 foot bag made from it. It's way less noisy than trash bags.

[@Williamleo71]

That's a good idea, filling the ground blind with leaves and using it as a shelter. Thanks for sharing that

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Those mylar bags are all over Amazon and in a lot of sporting goods stores. I've used trash bags too but the mylar bags are twice as long making them easier to use. Fantastic idea on filling that blind with leaves! Thanks for the comments and thanks for watching David

[@jelkel25]

Years ago we used to use burlap sacks when they were still commonly used for things liked potatoes. If you got a couple of the better ones you could also put two holes in one end, sew it so you had two channels to put poles in and make it into a bed like a stretcher. Mors Kohanski used to do something similar with a big piece of material. I wonder if a tick bag was a burlap sack?

[@charlessalmond7076]

​@@jelkel25Survival Scarf? Mors advocated a hollow tube scarf about 6-7' long. Could be used for a million and one improvised implements.

[@IntenseAngler]

Fun fact: Daniel Boone never went on any of his wilderness adventures without a pencil sharpener and an Altoids survival kit 😉 Seriously... great video as always Dave! That bit with the sharpener attached to the sheath had me rollin' man! 🤣 Definitely gotta agree with ya too... ALWAYS carry a knife (as well as all other proper gear) when venturing into the woods 👍 Thanks for keeping it real and passing along your knowledge my friend! Be well my Brother!

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Lol! I didnt think I ever saw any photos of him with a pencil sharpener. Im glad you liked it Brother John and Thanks for watching

[@IntenseAngler]

@@Reallybigmonkey1 It was top secret, lol 😉 You're more than welcome by the way... it's always a pleasure my Brother! 👍

[@joeyperez8581]

Been a while since I've seen your videos due to all the craziness going on in the USA and world, that being said ,U remind me of all the goodness we still have to enjoy in our land, and U make me laugh my arrrsss off. Be blessed.

[@johndalessandro6433]

I agree. Dave's videos are not only informative and you can tell he puts alot of thought into his videos. He is not afraid to fail and show the failure. He is just a cool fella. I consider him a freind even though we never met.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Thanks, Im glad you like what all I do Joey! I agree, the world is way too full of drama and evil and nuts.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

@@johndalessandro6433 Thank you John!

[@user-mj4yo7pi9j]

I was thinking the same thing when at the end of his video talking about rescue people finding some guy " clutching " items in his hands thinking ..." why didn't ya just bring a knife " lmao 😂 Dave's always fun to watch ... thanks

[@domenicocolavito3537]

Dave sei sempre il solito😂 I tuoi video sono sempre i migliori sul tema bushcraft.... Ormai sono passati tanti anni in cui ho visto parecchia gente che si è arricchita facendo business su tutto quello che si poteva vendere ... Probabilmente avrebbero venduto anche la loro madre. Ma pochissime persone ho nel mio cuore ❤️ Come te Dave. Buone passeggiate nei boschi E buona vita a te e tuo figlio.. Ti voglio bene fratello. 🪓🪓🪓🪓🪓🪓🪓🪓

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Grazie. Sono felice che ti piacciano i video e tutto ciò che faccio qui. Adoro realizzare video e adoro far interessare le persone alla vita all'aria aperta. Ho un lavoro regolare, quindi posso tenerlo per divertimento e non dover guadagnare soldi vendendo qualcosa qui. Grazie per i commenti e grazie per aver guardato il mio amico!

[@Williamleo71]

Just imagine how much different the Sandbar Fight woulda been if Jim Bowie had showed up with a sack full of pencil sharpeners instead of a knife

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Lol!!!

[@punishedmatteson7108]

I've always carried a little pencil sharpener because I also carry a Rite-wet notepad and pencils for navigation or note taking. I have used the shavings as a tinder but never as my sole source of tinder. I always have a knife and sometimes a saw and machete too.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

When you say "I always have a knife " I have no problems with carrying a pencil sharpener as a supplement. For me, I always have a knife and folding saw or a knife and machete. Thanks for the comments and thanks for watching

[@AclockworkPurple]

Couldn't you sharpen a pencil with your knife though? I always carry a pocket knife and have used that for decades to sharpen not just carpenters pencils but writing pencils. A belt knife isn't going to be damaged by sharpening a pencil either. It seems like having a pencil sharpener is kind of unnecessary.

[@punishedmatteson7108]

@@AclockworkPurple it sounds silly but pencils sharpened by a knife bug the heck out of me. It's worth the extra half ounce of weight to carry a sharpener.

[@AclockworkPurple]

@@punishedmatteson7108 Ok, everyone has preferences. I'm not telling you you are wrong or anything, do what works for you. Stay safe and have fun.

[@MedicGeorge]

I use cedar arrow shafts and always keep the taper tool in a pocket it’s a little bigger than a pencil sharpener and has two angles to the sharpener. Cedar shavings make a quick fire for hot glue stick and reattaching a tip . Arrow will fly the same but can work if not broken too far back.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Now that I can see as beneficial to carry!

[@jeromeknasinski3862]

You offer up so much great information. "...just bring a knife" Accidents happen.... Buggles are better... You are an excellent teacher.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Thanks and very well said Jerome! Thanks for watching

[@johnlhigh]

I like that you used the term "supplemental."" In my fire kit's i have a metal pencil sharpener. I always have a knife and ferro rod as well. Also, fire starters and the like. Good video!

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Some things are perfect when labeled supplemental, but not the do all end all item. Im glad you liked it. Thanks for watching

[@kachiri]

I'm personally not a neck knife person. I'm real happy reaching for my knife on my belt or pocket, as I do only use Morakniv Companion, which came with an excellent plastic sheath with a great design of a clip-on which it hold on my pock well and is better for me to reach that little bit lower than my belt height.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Neck knives arent for everyone but Ive grown to love using one.

[@behindthespotlight7983]

13:25 ELIMINATED KINDLING We have a friend who runs a lathe for his fine carpentry side hustle. Once a year or maybe 18 months he brings us 2-3 contractors bags loaded with beautiful curly q’s of shavings. We use a fire box style stove to heat 1400 sq feet of a 2200 sq ft home in NW Washington. So we light that sucker at least once, maybe twice, per day, five months per year. Every season after I chop 5-6 cords of fuel wood then buy a 100 count of cheap brown paper sack lunch bags. Into each sack goes 3 wadded pieces of junk mail & 3-4 handfuls of the wood shavings. Then roll the bag like a school lunch back in 1980. And pop closed w/ 1 staple. Provided I build competent “upside down fire log cabins” in the fire box, one of the paper bag tinder bundles eliminates the need for kindling. By not processing several weeks worth of fuel wood into kindling every September we save 1/4-1/2 cord of wood per year. Making 150 of the tinder bags takes me a couple hours. It’s an incredible savings on energy cost because kindling & getting the fires started uses a lot of wood (when it’s added up over 5 months) but those first 15-20 minutes of wood burn, getting the fire going, really do not emit much by way of house warming BTU’s. We save enough wood by eliminating kindling to compensate an additional 30-35 fires over the course of approximately 5 months. Electricity bills are so outrageous on the West Coast it confounds me that people aren’t tearing up the streets in anger. How is a family of four supposed to swing $900 a month electricity? It’s madness. But that’s what we get when government monopolizes utilities. You can like it. Lump it. Or freeze. It’s 2024 and just to stay warm and keep a roof over one’s head on the W. Coast is $3k-$4k per month. That’s just heat & rent/mortgage. Add double digit inflation at the grocery store and pump. And vertical health insurance costs at you can easily hit $10k per month just for the basics. Now who do we know who makes $10k per month AFTER taxes? Certainly no jobs around here. Cost of living here is almost what it was in Los Angeles 8 years ago. Except there are jobs in Southern CA. There’s barely an economy here. 🇺🇸is in BIG trouble.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Wow! Man I had no idea it was that expensive over on the coast!

[@jeffreyford9850]

David Subject: foam to sit on in your pack. Noticed at the beginning of the pencil sharpener video you didn't pull something put of your pack to sit on. Love your videos and my wife and I watch them as they come out. She says you normally have something out to sit on- I cant remember. I keep a piece of closed cell foam, free stuff like packing material or something, slid inside my pack against my back. It's free, comfy, warm and dry. It also keeps stuff in the pack from poking me like a saw or hatchet. We live in NW Montana and the warm seat is great out in the snow. Thanks for the videos, we really enjoy them and love watching you test your latest creations- very entertaining and educational. Keep up the good work. A friend of mine always says, "Nothing is obvious to the uninformed". Cheers, Jeff&Karen.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

yes, I normally have something to sit on or have everything piled on it, especially during cooking vids. I just didnt pack one this time. Im glad you liked it. Thanks for watching

[@lordphullautosear]

Pencil sharpener makes good tinder. Won't replace a good knife, but is a good accessory.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

I agree with that

[@1leg956]

Always informative and fun bigmonkey catch you on the next one peace and love from 1 leg uk England

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Thanks, Im glad you liked it. Thanks for watching

[@cayuse-jf7eq]

would not want to trust my life to a pencil sharpener another outstanding video

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

I can agree! Im glad you liked it. Thanks for watching

[@robinbrown378]

I was like, a pencil sharpener? Lol! Gotta see this.

[@OtherThanIntendedPurpose]

I showed a better version of a pencil sharpener that actually will help in situations where cold, dehydration, hunger, or exhaustion reduce your dexterity, and fine motor skills. it still does not replace a knife, but can augment your knife, and make worst case scenario fire building much faster, easier and safer. a demo on how I use it are at 14:50 in this video kzbin.info/www/bejne/npWanaGQq6mBY8U

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Lol, it's a very popular item that people carry. Thanks for watching Robin

[@markhenry2826]

Well done...

[@ricbrown9819]

Dave even your jibber jabber is informative. Love your videos.

[@bushcraftbasics2036]

I like the pencil sharpener for those in your group that can't use a knife well, like young children. They want to help and will enjoy the experience more if they can help and it keeps them occupied.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Now I can agree with that, its great for kids.

[@tikkidaddy]

I have a buddy who used to sell emergency tinder kits. He used an electric pencil sharpener to process fat wood sticks to shavings with a bit of carving from his...you guessed it...Mora Companion with a 90 degree spine added😂 BUT he had to have a BUNCH o tinder. He wore like 4 of those electric jobs slap out. I think Schrade or somebody makes a little yellow thing with a tinder grater and pencil sharpener. Your old long time subscriber here uses a Mora Kansbol, a Corona shears sharpener and a SAK Fieldmaster. That Corona sharpener strikes a Ferro and actually makes stoopid fine fatwood shavings, and I don't bugger my knife spine, unless I HAVE to use it😂

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Thanks for the comments. When selling tinder in kits I can see the advantage of using electric pencil sharpeners. Thanks for watching

[@richardstone5241]

Yep, carried one for years Dave plus a notebook and two pencils. It's a good idea for taking notes, navigation and notification of your location/intention if lost to search parties. Example: Name, address, phone number, I am lost, ok physically and am going to beaver pond which you can see down in valley. Mobius & Ruppert, make solid brass sharpeners with extra blades. (Made in Germany).

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Thanks for the input Richard. Someone on Bushcraft USA sent me a link to a Mobius sharpener with a magnesium case!

[@dnngskn62]

good one David. Glad i learned as a child from family and friends the craft you present. In my seventh decade i still count on these principles you expound on so often. Staying safe in the woods is not a game you want to lose.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Fantastic to hear that! Ya gotta learn young

[@viewsandreviews180]

Thank you adding another perspective to this conversation of survival. I’ve seen the pencil sharpener videos and thought there could be something to using them but decided,like you, a knife makes more sense because it can be used many more ways.

[@LaoSoftware]

I love it when he gives his perspective on things. I learn so much from other people. It's valuable information.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

You are very welcome and Im glad you liked it. Pencil sharpeners work, just not great. Thanks for watching

[@mikerobertson4041]

A pencil sharpener can come in handy for some things, but as a knife collector, I never go anywhere without at least one knife. And I almost always have a neck knife, as well.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

I couldn't agree more Mike!

[@tanjarott7535]

I love the bungee style cord and cord lock idea for the neck knife. You have so many fun and innovative ideas. Thanks for another great video! I think of all the hundreds of others that got excited to see a new video out from you. Thanks for the humor and smiles and laughter.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Thanks, Im glad you liked it. That bungee cord is definitely the safest way to go. Thanks for watching

[@aaronbeach8929]

Just added pencil sharpener to my survival kit 😎 love you're videos, respect from England 🇬🇧👍😎💪🌱🌲

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

I'm glad you like the videos my friend!

[@johndalessandro6433]

I think the pencil sharpener was to help get fine curls for people who have trouble doing it with thier knife. I don't think it was meant to replace the knife. But Dave , great video again. Ty for letting us know about the poor fella that impaled himself . I don't carry a neck knife, only cause I don't like things around my neck. I don't know if you read it but, I showed my step dad your video where you took out your survival kit and used it. I wanted him to see the importance of carrying one in his truck. Here in PA on the turnpike a few years back, hundreds of people where stranded for over 24 hours I beleive in a snow storm. Anyway, he loved the video and asked me to tell you "thank you". Also, you said you didn't carry your 2 quart canteen cause it didn't have a metal cup like the 1 quart. I suggested that with your fabricating and sewing skills, mabr you could make one. If I had the skills and tools I'd try but I don't. Anyway, ty for the video and tell Nick I said " Ayeooo" lol

[@thorin693]

I have always looked at a pencil sharpener as a tool to help with fire starting practice until you get better at feather sticks. But if you have a knife with a sharp spine you can just scrape with it.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

I can see a pencil sharpener being beneficial for some but not me. Thats great your dad loved that video! Im all about people being prepared. Thats why Im so rough on minimalist items. I still want to make a 2 quart cup one day. With a handle and a bail for a fire. Nick says hi and thanks for watching!

[@shaynecarter-murray3127]

First time i saw it was years ago, one of the "surviving with random stuff" episodes of some show or other. It wasnt saying you *should* carry a pencil sharpener, just said you could use one to make tinder

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

I can agree with that statement, you can carry one and it'll work but its definitely not a requirement

[@brushbum7508]

Good Morning Dave ! Another great video. Have a great weekend. TAKE CARE..

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Good morning and Im glad you liked it. Thanks for watching

[@brushbum7508]

YOU BET ! TAKE CARE..@@Reallybigmonkey1

[@barlotardy]

I think the best use of a pencil sharpener would be to make shavings with something like fatwood, just to have a container full of dry tinder in your pocket ready to go for later when it might be raining. But yeah, it's not gonna beat what a knife can do most of the time.

[@mitchlindeman7033]

Dave, love it. With the paracord or shock cord- try using cord lock with only one knotted end. That way it will break free under tension, but knotted end will save your cord lock. They’re small and easily lost when they slip free.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

That's a great idea Mitch! Thanks for the comments and thanks for watching brother

[@kachiri]

Neck knife... Thought I'd mention, if you are wearing a shirt like yours with that fold down collar, you could have the cord/rope under the collar to give even less chance to get snagged.

[@michaelmeyers4950]

Sir, you have just earned your noble prize in knife safety. That is brillant! If you use an extra long laneyard you can button down the laneyard on your right chestpocket and let the cord run down behind your neck and tuck thf knife in the shirt as Dsve does. Holy cow, I never thought about that! Brillant idea brother!

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Good point!

[@redsorgum]

If you’re out in the field and don’t have a way to sharpen your knife, and you want to save your edge, I can see using the pencil sharpener. Plus having dry shavings all ready in the container is a plus. But like you said, it’s just easier to use s knife. The little Mora Eldris is a cool fire starting knife. ✌️ Have a great weekend.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Good point, use it as a back up. I have an Eldris, its a great knife. Thanks for the comments and you have a great weekend too!

[@HollywoodTacticool]

thanks for demonstrating that the pencil sharpener DOES in fact work. and i'm certain NOBODY is suggesting a pencil sharpener IN LIEU of a knife, but rather as a back up to a back up to a back up. so i put one in a survival altoid in case i don't have a knife, or i lose a knife, or i break a knife, or i want to save its edge... then i can use that throwaway pencil sharpener for what it's worth to make a few shavings for me....

[@itsnotthesamething]

I used to have a hand crank pencil sharpener like the ones that hung on the wall in a school classroom. If someone was inclined to save those shavings, along with lint from the dryer, it would be good for starting a fire for a backyard bonfire. It could come in handy if there is a winter power outage. Put bricks or rocks around the fire to warm them(don't let them get too hot), then bring them inside, wrapped in old towels, to put in bed with you.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

You are very welcome and I'm glad you liked it. I can see it being a back up but if I'm carrying a back up I just carry a small fire starting tinder. Thanks for watching

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Now I could see a hand crank one make a lot of shavings fast!

[@blademan175]

Dave, your videos are such a nice break from all the crap going on these days! You and I have so much in common and like interests.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Thanks, Im glad you like them! Man the world is nutso! Thanks for watching

[@ianmickelwright4136]

Thanks for the video Dave. ❤

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

You are very welcome and thanks for watching Ian!

[@Gabblerwba1]

A font of knowledge you are David, the last two minutes or so explaining the wood cutting knife angles was particularly interesting. Thank you very much for sharing these gems 😎👍

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Thanks, Im glad you liked it. Thanks for watching

[@kachiri]

23:50 I have a sling blade almost exactly like that one (When you said minimalist winter kit). Slight difference, like the handle on top and material at back pouch section, plus the color is a tad different. Great bag!

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Very cool to hear that!

[@bikemannc]

AReally Fine & Important talk and excellent demo youve put together here. Showing the difference and again a better alternative ( knife & the type of grind ) if so important. Keep up your vital yet fun videos Dave.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Thanks, Im glad you liked it. Thanks for watching

[@trooper2221]

Absolutely forget about the pencil sharpener 😊 good one Dave, and I have a little Martini too, great little knife.

[@davidglazener7921]

I have a Martini also. A step above a Mora in my opinion.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Well said! I love Marttiini just as much as Mora, its a great knife. Thanks for watching

[@asmith7876]

I'll bring one of the pencil sharpeners like you had in school, attaches to the wall with a crank handle. It can possibly double as a coffee grinder! 🤣🤣🤣

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Lol! Now I gotta try grinding coffee beans with one!!

[@teemuholopainen4745]

Ive never been disappointed for listening to this guy. But must say that if someone even remotely consider pencil sharpener or committing the unthinkable by means of their neck knife.. i just find it hilarious

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Thank you!

[@odahithedubious2017]

The basic idea reminds me of the scene In "Raiders of the Lost Ark" when Indy sees the martial arts guy with two swords jump out at him, and he kind of heaves a sigh, pulls out his pistol and shoots him. Something may work, but it's not always worth the effort. I have a pocket knife I carry, it's not anything fancy or expensive, but I carry it whenever I leave the house. If I were out camping, it's still in my pocket, but I also have a belt knife, and a machete and saw, unless I'm in a state park in a paved campground. Out hiking? Yeah, I'm going to have more like what Dave has in his sling bag. Plus maybe some beef jerky or some kind of trail mix. It's not paranoid, Mother Nature really is out to get you. All the best to you, from another Dave.

[@Bushlore1]

Fun tip, Harrison Ford got sick during the filming of the "Raiders of the Lost Ark" and cut a scene where Indiana Jones was supposed to have a sword fight in Cairo with the 'Swordsman. ' Due to dysentery, they cut the scene down to Jones shooting the Swordsman, which always amused me.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Very well said man!

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

@@Bushlore1 Funny thing, they cut that scene into something simpler and it was a very iconic scene!

[@Bushlore1]

@@Reallybigmonkey1 As you preach all the time, simpler is usually better! lol

[@garyemmert1735]

Informative and entertaining. That’s why your channel is the best. thanks!

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Thank you Gary!

[@jamesellsworth9673]

What a great lead-in to a bushcraft video! You just about had a 'minimalist' knife along. The two-emergency mylar bag trick is something NEW! THAT creates a bed and blanket with just about the least imaginable space/weight.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Thanks James, I'm glad you liked it. Those two mylar bags can turn a minimalist approach into quite a comfortable sleep set up. Thanks for watching brother

[@Traderjoe]

I have found that whenever I start to say “you should” do this or that, that I catch myself and realize that I am ‘spouting’. And I stop myself. Whenever someone says ‘you should’, they are acting as though they are coming from a higher place. Like a teacher or a figure of authority of greater experience and I never want to present myself as possessing any knowledge that is superior to anyone else’s knowledge or experience. It’s a constant struggle and I think that, as great as the internet and KZbin is, that from the hidden perch of the comment section, people feel that they can spout in total anonymity and they feel empowered. It’s one of our major weaknesses, the assumption of knowledge.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Very very very well said! You totally understand human behaviors!

[@AirstripBum]

Great video Dave! Always good to see your smilin' face. I remember just a little while back someone suggesting that I take a pencil sharpener. I said, "Why? I've got a knife!" You have to have a certain size twig to use the sharpener and it's not right, you have to shave it down with "your knife". Hey wait! While I was making this twig fit, I got these nifty shavings! I'm done! And I've sharpened pencils way better than I could with some of the cheaper pencil sharpeners. Got to have your survival pencil out in the great outdoors! LOL

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Thanks, Im glad you liked it and always great to h ear from you. You hit my thoughts exactly! I have a knife, why do I need a pencil sharpener? Thanks for watching

[@RoutedOutdoors]

It's ironic. I sent you an IG message this morning, then saw you put out a new video. I've seen several people swear by pencil sharpeners. I thought the same as you... use a knife. I love that you addressed this topic. You have a gift when it comes to sharing info and making it fun. Have a wonderful weekend. -Hollie

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Lol, just like I said, why dont you just carry a knife. Im glad you liked it. Thanks for watching and you have a great weekend too Hollie!

[@johnnyharperscoutstable5386]

I like using pencil sharpeners to create cool flowers out of carrots and vegetables. Great techniques as usual Dave 🐸🍺🔪🔥

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Now that's a good idea!

[@jamesellsworth9673]

Spirals vs bugles were also informative. 'Fun in the Woods.'

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

I'm glad you liked that James

[@jenky1044]

Excellent show. Thank you, Dave. I always like your videos and find them practical. Some people show things that might work if everything is right. And then there are know-it-all people who say, but don't do.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Thanks, Im glad you like all the videos and very well said! Thanks for watching

[@bigal2696]

Always informative. Always interesting. Especially interesting is the neck knife information - thanks!

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Thanks! Im glad you liked it. Thanks for watching

[@jamesswick7534]

Good morning Dave! Thanks for the video!

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Good morning James and Im glad you liked it. Thanks for watching

[@ColinNew-pf5ix]

Nice one Dave. I've never needed a pencil sharpener in all my years in the woods. I think it's just another KZbin gimmick that's sneaked into bushcraft/survival. But I've never needed a ferro rod either. I can't see the point in them myself. I look at them also as a gimmick these days. My lighter has always worked in every winter. I carry several of them. I just have them wrapped up inside a sock whatever. As far as the winter survival kit. I always carry a torso inflatable mattress, because I never rely on browses for these two reasons: 1/. You can't always guarantee there's going to be sufficient dry leaves, grass whatever. 2/. If you're severely injured and immobilised you may not be able to harvest natural debris. I would add in a couple of packs of chemical hand warmers too. Thanks for your sharing and splainin :-)

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

I'm glad you liked it and thanks for the comments. Lighters are great but, it is possible for them to break, leak, empty out of get crushed. A Ferro rod is darn near indestructible. My mylar bag suggestions are for those that love minimalist kits. I love carrying a backpack full of gear myself. Thanks for watching

[@randycarter2427]

Another Great video David.I’ve been collecting knives since I was seven and now I’m seventy nine and have a huge collection of all kinds of knives,so you know what I’m taking with me. I carry from five to eight in my pockets every where I go. I Love Knives!

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Sounds like you are very well prepared! Thanks for watching Randy

[@branch_preparedness]

Another excellent video, Dave. Informative and useful. Thank you for sharing.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Thanks, Im glad you liked it. Thanks for watching

[@mussydesign7933]

Hey Dave, always a pleasure watching yr videos 😍try makeup sharpeners they are usually smaller and have a container as well

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Thanks, I'm glad you liked it. I've never even heard of make up sharpeners, I'll have to look that up

[@tjenahoj]

Lunchtime in Sweden! Greetings to Mr RBM1 and the Fun in the woods comminity all over the world! Now on to the video :D

[@marcusfridh8489]

Precis klar med lunchätningen

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Thanks! Enjoy lunch and the video!

[@johndalessandro6433]

So what is a common food on Sweden? How is the weather? When I was in the Navy there was a waitress that worked on base at the EM club ( enlisted men's club) . She was one of the most beautiful and sweet woman I ever met. I loved her accent . Too bad she was married lol. But I adored her and respected her greatly. I wish I had time to ask her about her homeland, I love hearing about other countries and cultures. 😊

[@marcusfridh8489]

@@johndalessandro6433 personally i often only eat some bread for lunch and then something larger for dinner

[@tjenahoj]

@@johndalessandro6433 Hello there! Generally one of the worst winters here in 20 years. Coldwise some records was set, but luckily not where I am. Snowwise also alot of snow but Ive seen worse in these parts 2018. I eat alot of simple foods from around the world. So I had buckwheat with pink salt and butter (a slavic dish). But typical friday food could be potatoes, gravy and meatballs or porkchops and green peas and lingonberries. With some hardbread with butter and a glass of milk. Desert could be icecream. Also of course one or two "fika" have to be fitted in one about 10 one about 14. Usually coffee and a cinnamon bun or simple biscuit. But since its friday theres always the chance someone have something to celebrate so a cake could appear too! Then for friday evening many swedes do chicken and fries or pizza. )Im going to make homemade pizza). Also swedes are crazy for sweets so likely a bag of candies will come out (licquorice both salty and sweet being a faourite). Many grown up swedes also enjoy their vodka based grogg later on with their choice of softdrink mixed with vodka. Happy weekend friends!

[@Myn6211]

There is one rule that I've always practiced when it comes to what I carry with me when hikng, or even just out for a walk on a woodland trail. What I carry has to serve more than one purpose. A pencil sharpener is great for sharpening a pencil but I can do the same with a knife and that same knife can do a whole heck of a lot more. I can not imagine a survival scenario where I would happily carry a pencil sharpener over a knife. As always, a great video Dave.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Very well said and I agree! Im glad you liked it. Thanks for watching

[@bobbytaylor5559]

Good morning from Texas!

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Thanks and a good morning to you from Georgia!

[@williampratt4791]

Dave, In Alaska, i came in from prospecting and found a city tourist with a sharpened aluminum spear with a bungi cord attached. We were in deep grizzly territory. He told me.. why carry your heavy rifle, I carry this much lighter spear and can throw it with my bungi or plant it in the ground and impale the grizz when he charges me.... Bear fever, Dave it is a thing.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Lol! Some people amaze me with what they think they need to carry. Thanks for the comments William

[@PatrickBoening]

Excellent, as always! Thank you David! Best regards from Atlantik Canada!

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Thanks Patrick! I'm glad you liked it brother

[@James-ke5sx]

The Marttiini knife sheath has a buttonhole slot in the back so if people are afraid of a lanyard they can just attach it to the button on their shirts. I have a storm whistle which came with a lanyard that holds together with two magnets behind your neck so if you get snagged it will easily separate. I learned a lot about Bushcraft over the years watching your videos, thanks for all the work and effort.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

I knew Moras had button hole attachments but never paid attention to the Marttiini sheathes. I love the magnet idea. Thanks for the comments and thanks for watching

[@neva.]

If a pencil sharpener is made of magnesium, then it may be scraped to assist in fire making. I have used a huge pencil sharpener with branches and fat wood and found it does not compare to what a knife can do. I enjoyed this video and found a combination of useful information here within. Thank you for sharing your time and expertise. Enjoy your weeks end! Stay lifted.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Theres a German made sharpener called Mobius that actually is magnesium! Im glad you liked it. Thanks for watching and have a happy weekend!

[@RenThraysk]

A while back there was a product, the Pro Tool Industries MAG-NA-FIRE . A pencil sharpener, made of magnesium with ferro rod like regular magnesium block & ferrorod, and match striking surface all in one item. Supposedly designed for the US military. Think that's where the idea came from. If just have a pencil sharpener without a knife, then either poor decisions were made, or things have gone horribly wrong.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Thanks for the comments, Ive never heard of that tool before but I have heard of Pro Tool.

[@purposesusage5655]

Living in Dallas, I also carry a survival kit. There's times we never know when something could happen. One time the train was shut down in the tunnel, or a bus breakdown, or rail is shut down for some reason. I carry a bottle or two of water, small medicine jar of instant coffee, snack crackers or cookies, napkins, plastic spoons and forks, packs of sugar, salt and pepper, cup for instant drink mix, or instant soup mix, mini flashlight, and a small survival knife, and a large plastic zip bag.( discreetly for urination).All in my backpack.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Whether it's urban or wilderness, it pays to always be prepared! Thanks for the comments and thanks for watching!

[@mountainman971]

Just briefly on the neck knives. Some are carried tip up. For years i carried a cheap one in that method til i dropped it and and the plastic sheath shattered. Scared me. But, that would fix your "somehow it would have to flip" scenario. A normal fall would point the tip directly at your throat. A short enough necklace would help ensure perfect alignment and aim. Another scenario that comes to mind is some knives have an exposed steal lanyard loop at the end of the handle I could see where landing with that end up could separate a ribcage. Just a couple of ideas for what it's worth. Excellent video as always.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Ah man! I could see any Of those situations you mentioned getting someone impaled. Thanks for the comments and I'm glad you liked the video!

[@behindthespotlight7983]

15:21 (remember the 1990’s Apple commercials?) 🗣️ “Get a Bic!” 😉

[@Literally_Deez_Nuts]

Definitely have one, but they run out of fuel and can freeze up. They are a great eazy way to start a fire, but you should have another fire starting method handy in my opinion. Redundancy is a good thing.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Lol, I remember!

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

@@Literally_Deez_Nuts Absolutely!

[@johnpoole8321]

Eagle torch for the win and a ferro rod key chain for backup.

[@oldpunkywood4017]

I've been a subscriber for a few years and have watched almost every video. I think this is possibly your best instructional/informative video! Love the channel...

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Thank you and that's fantastic to hear that!

[@wd1334]

That was a good tip on making curles and bugals or spirals and their best uses. Thanks Dave.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Thanks, Im glad you liked that

[@swnorcraft7971]

A good knife makes a dandy pencil sharpener---- I actually learned some good things from this video that the last dozen outdoor or bushcraft videos failed to teach me. The easy going talk of the way things are in real life is conducive to good learning if I'm paying attention. Thanks, Dave!

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Fantastic to hear that my friend! I try to make the videos as informative as possible. Thanks for watching

[@pedroleal7118]

Hi there! Lost track of you for while, but glad you're back in 'suggestions'. I realise longtime ago, how a pencil sharpner can be useful!Now i'll watch.

[@pedroleal7118]

Pencil shapner is easy to carry.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Thanks for stopping by and watching!

[@steveyoung9951]

IF ! If i was going to use a pencil sharpener, i would use a carpenter pencil sharpener . And Dave you got a great sense of humor 👍

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Oh I agree, its much larger at least. Thanks for watching Steve

[@couchcamperTM]

Hi Dave, there were originally two good reasons to bring a small sharpener to make shavings: for a survival kit you can have in places where you can't bring a knife, for example after a flight, and because the ones you should have are made out of magnesium and that is a booster for creating an initial flame. Justremove the scalpel blade and use it to scrape off some magnesium and add it to your pile, in case the wood is a little damp. You covered all other scenarios, when it really doesn't seem to make any sense.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Yep, I can see it in those scenarios. For me and the area I live in it's a knife all the way

[@globyois]

I ALWAYS carry a neck knife and thought about the strangling aspect of it. Those alternatives to knots you showed were great. I’ll employ one of them. Thanks.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Thanks, I'm glad you liked that tip. Thanks for watching

[@dravenblaze6907]

For my neck knives I use slip knots on the ends of my neck cord. I can adjust the cord and if you pull it up a bit higher to the neck the knots slip if I snags on something and gives you a bit more space to get it off the neck. it's worked well for me so far.

[@rockytopwrangler2069]

..agree ... a fisherman's uni-knot is smooth and snag free to slip apart ,, could also with each end tie a tautline hitch , also a tension knot that is adjustable ..

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Sounds good to me

[@pacificbushcraftandfirecra6358]

All logical and practical points Sir. Most of these hacks you see people try are just not solid. Tried, true and tested techniques are the way to go for sure. Beautiful 73 Forge knife Dave! She was the star of the video! Thanks for sharing with us all and always #keepitburning

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Thanks! I'm glad you liked it and man it amazes me what some people think works! Lol. I love that knife. Take care and thanks for watching

[@TerryC69]

Hi Dave! As I was watching you theorize on how that poor feller impaled himself on a neck knife, I was thinking that would be an ugly way to die, but the likelyhood of it happening more than once in a generation is just slightly higher than me being grabbed up and carried off by a freakishly gigantic raptor in the North Georgia woods. Bless ya, brother!

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

It's definitely a rare accident but it could still happen. Lol, it sounds like being carried off by a raptor might be fun! Thanks for watching Terry

[@TerryC69]

@@Reallybigmonkey1 Instead of Fun in The Woods, it would be "Fun in the Air?"

[@jamescrowe7892]

Help, educate and entertain. Mission accomplished. One thing about those mylar bivvies is when you are underneath them moisture will start building up inside. I was camping this past weekend for the first time in a while and I augmented my sleeping bag with a space blanket. Had to take care of the call of nature in the middle of the night. Discovered moisture on the surface of my sleeping bag. It did not soak through and I stayed comfortable throughout the night. First time I ever used a space blanket. I thought my sleeping bag was a little suspect as I have gotten cold in it before. But that was when I didn’t know any better and did not have an insulating layer between me and the ground.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Thanks James! There's a lot to consider when using them bivies. Air temperature, wind speed, relative humidity and dewpoint. And of course your clothing. Thanks for sharing your experience and thanks for watching James

[@ASBO_LUTELY]

OG pencil sharpener commenter here, remember pencils can be bushcraft gear too, i know for a fact i have loads just hanging around the house so why not turn them into shaving producers?

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Yes they can be used but I still prefer a knife.

[@OutdoorEnthusist]

This is a great clip! A man that knows which way works. Great Job!

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Thanks!

[@OutdoorEnthusist]

You are more than welcome. I taught Escape/ Evasion/ Survival for the US Military for over 36 years. I am now 63 years old. You Sir, probably could have taught the Wilderness Survival. I want to thank you for all you teach @@Reallybigmonkey1

[@Gliouxmie]

The gentleman who unfortunately passed due to the neck knife accident was Patrick Kenney Jr. It was ruled an accident by tripping in a parking lot outside a restaurant. The officer described it as a "lanyard style knife worn around his neck". There aren't many details on the knife or accident itself, just the tripping and sheath being around his neck. My guess is it was a small urban carry knife in a Kydex sheath that's worn tip-UP. You see them everywhere and it's easy for them to fall out into your clothes, workers carrying boxes have reported getting a surprise poke when they pick a box up because their neck knife fell out in their shirt or jacket. The cheaper it's made, the easier it'll fall out. Tip-up vs tip-down is often overlooked in neck knife safety conversation. Thankfully, most bushcrafters carry different and larger knives tip-DOWN, with exceptions like the Mora Eldris but, the Eldris has a second leather buckle to lock it down. So the worry of impalement probably isn't necessary in a bushcrafter's case. A breakaway lanyard never hurts though, accidents can happen then you're sliding downhill hoping you don't get snagged.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Thanks for the info! I didnt know those details. I never liked the idea of wearing a knife tip up.

[@sovbo101]

Enjoyed the video as usual Dave. Hi Nick!

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Thanks, Im glad you liked it. Thanks for watching and Nick says Hi!

[@EatCarbs]

I have a magnesium pencil sharpener that I bought off of the Survival recourses website. I think I used it once and it's been in with my firemaking supplies ever since. I should break it out and try using it. Sad about that guy dying. I bet it was a leather sheath. I heard a blade can break through the stitches. Thanks for the video brother

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

People keep mentioning those magnesium sharpeners. Those sound cool. Someone else commented that most razor sharp custom made knives have leather sheaths with no plastic liner at all. Thanks for watching Brother Mark

[@peterappleton5213]

Outstanding video Dave lots of good ideas as usual and very entertaining thanks from sunny South East England ❤

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Thanks Peter, Im glad you liked it. Thanks for watching

[@sylphed78]

This was in the Boston news in Dec 2023. Tripped and fell in the parking lot of a restaurant. They didn't specify what kind of knife only that it was hanging around his neck. Alot of smaller neck knives hang with the handle down. So that puts the knife in correct orientation for impalement.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Thanks for the info. I'd never trust a blade up neck knife!

[@kurtdavis4514]

Now that was “helpful, educational” and VERY “entertaining” ! Thanks!

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Thanks Kurt! I'm glad you liked it

[@davidphipps46]

Dave maybe a kindergarten pencil sharpener could work, lol. As far as carrying gear, I consider myself frugal, thrifty and basically cheap. I've found that camera bags are a good cheap way to carry gear. Multiple pockets and water resistant. Got a chuckle from this one.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Lol, man I'm actually pretty cheap too. I'm glad you liked it and thanks for watching David

[@twenchtowers3894]

I must confess I am disappointed that you didn’t drag into the woods the style of pencil sharpener I had imagined when I first read about this idea. I genuinely assumed they meant the old-style school pencil sharpener with the adjustable aperture/clamping mechanism, the hand crank and the tray to catch the shavings. 😆

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Surely they werent referring to one of them old fashioned things! Another commenter said those makes shavings and grinds your coffee beans. Lol.

[@twenchtowers3894]

@@Reallybigmonkey1 Dual purpose item! But I bet it would make your coffee taste funny.

[@QuantumPyrite_88.9]

That rare time when odd subject matter actually makes for a great video. I would use my hat to catch shavings. Awesome video and best wishes for an excellent weekend. Thanks again.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Lol, pencil sharpeners are a pretty weird subject to cover. Im glad you liked it. Thanks for watching

[@michaelfeltis4940]

Dave, Great idea to talk about. I use a knife when i am in field, but I have installed an old fashioned pencil sharpener in my workshop, like the ones we used in grade school back in the 70's. I have taken fat wood and made a large amount fatwood sawdust that I pack into my first starting kit. You are right about the altoid tin not being a large enough to support survival.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Thanks, I'm glad you liked it Michael! I'm sure a pencil sharpener makes good fatwood shavings but I personally find it best to use a cordless drill with an auger bit. You wouldn't believe how fast that makes shavings! Take care and thanks for watching

[@dr.tomgio6694]

Hey Dave, I know this will sound a little dumb, but it seems to me that making tinder with the pencil sharpener requires more kilocalories than just using the knife. The twisting motion requires practically your whole upper body and both arms, forearms, and both hands to get the shavings while the knife only requires stabilization and the use of one upper extremity. How about beating the end of a stick with a rock, a tomahawk, or a hatchet into a brush-like feathered splinter edge that you could manipulate into shape to allow more or less air flow for ignition? In any case, I really liked the demonstration. Keep warm out there in the wilderness!

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Oh not dumb at all! You made perfect sense! And you are correct about smashing a stick for fire. I actually did that in my how to not baton your knife video. Thanks for the comments and Thanks for watching Doc!

[@xxlastrebelxx5719]

Thanks for another

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Thanks for watching

[@farmtrout66]

I’m in complete agreement Dave , Not sure but I’ve heard some military units put pencil sharpeners in survival kits. I always think when I hear this, just give them a knife. Always appreciate your videos brother.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Exactly! Why don't they just carry a knife? I'm glad you like the videos and thanks for watching

[@axerxes3981]

Dave.... I've used pencil shavings from a pencil sharpener for tinder in my fire kit for years. Once a month or so I clean out my wall mounted pencil sharpener and add the shavings to my kit if needed. Other than that, i agree with you whole heartedly. Love your vids. Best wishes. Ax.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Now thats a good use for the extra shavings. Id rather carry a bag of shavings than I would the sharpener itself. Im glad you like the videos Ax!

[@emmitmeyer1368]

Always enjoy your videos, Thanx for another informative and fun piece.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Thanks, Im glad you liked it. Thanks for watching

[@OtherThanIntendedPurpose]

I will start by saying I always have a knife ( except when I am at the VA , because they forbid them) but the use of a pencil sharpener goes back WAY before the internet. in the 1970's my dad taught me that if you are very cold, dehydrated, tired or hurt, using a knife to make tinder can be dangerous. he showed me how to use the flat carpenter's pencil sharpener to make tinder safely and quickly. it does not replace a knife, but augments them. I use the big, usually yellow, carpenter's pencil sharpener from the hardware store. so I can get a stick almost as big as my pinky in it, and make a ton of shavings in seconds. with out risking slipping with cols shaky hands. as to the Altoids tins. I have been saying the same thing you did for years. a tin is not a "kit" it is a component of a kit. the one I use, and a demo on how I use it are at 14:50 in this video kzbin.info/www/bejne/npWanaGQq6mBY8U it is an older video, but I stand by what I say. the carpenter's pencil sharpener will give you a LOT better quality shavings, and a lot more of them in under 2 minutes. they are also a lot tougher, more compact and you can get them for under $1.00 for the very small amount of space and almost no weight, the sharpener is worth having. in this video, you are not freezing, or have other reductions of coordination. survival is planning for worst case. I even carried a sharpener while I was a U.S. ARMY RANGER for 7-1/2 of the 10 years I served in the ARMY. also, if you have a bottle bag attached to your pack, you can have a nesting cup in the bottom, a 40 oz kleen kanteen and a second nesting cup on top, so you have a cooking pot and cup both inside the water bottle kit.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Now when it comes to a carpenter pencil sharpener I can agree with that option. If it take pinky sized wood that opens up more available options. Thanks for the input and thanks for watching brother

[@indycharlie]

Man OTIP , I am so glad to see your comment . I was about to write a post saying that I think Dave has the wrong idea for the pencil sharpeners recommended purpose . There are more than a few reasons to carry one , some that you also point out . Examples . You are going on a day hike and you just want a fanny pack with other items , including the minimum stuff to SURVIVE the night if lost or injured . Also , if you are hiking in the woods or on trail with your 7-11 year old child or female . Whom either are afraid of a knife , you don't want to use a knife , or have taught to be able to use a pencil sharpener to start a fire using a mini bic or small F-rod . In the event of getting lost , your wife , GF or child could stay at camp and make shavings with the PS while you gather wood and do other chores . Yearly , there are people who die in the U.S. who get lost and die because they didn't have the absolute "minimum " items to survive ! A mini -Bic , small F-rod , pencil sharpener and a SURVIVAL BLANKET . YES , there are a lot of variables that answer if you can survive with DAVE'S recommended kit , or the very basic one for day hikes ect . If it gets down to -20 , -40 in the Whites or out West . You may very well not survive , then there is the ALL important wind . In final . I have a few PS , including some aluminium ones I bought decades ago . I should have said also . LOTS of people who do day hike don't want to carry a knife due to weight , just won't fit in the bag , or pokes you all the time . I was NOT a Ranger , but ended on a Team with some before I left RVN . Great , crazy guys , all :D ... doc BG 68-71 Army .

[@OtherThanIntendedPurpose]

@@indycharlie good to hear from another vet. we had different people shooting at us, but it still means a lot that we stood our lines. I always have at least a basic kit on me. I even have a 72 hour kit on a molle panel on the back of my power chair ( disagreement with a parachute in '93.. ) stay safe, and stay in the woods, brother.

[@OtherThanIntendedPurpose]

@@Reallybigmonkey1 I always enjoy your take on gear, and setting up camp. if you ever find yourself out in the redwood empire, give a holler. I'd be glad to show you some places I go

[@indycharlie]

I agree , I figured you might have been to the box . I have a bag for each season for my truck .Sorry to hear about that disagreeable chute . Stay Strong , brother . @@OtherThanIntendedPurpose

[@outbackowl3040]

Hi Dave, greeting from Australia 🇦🇺, thank you for your time to make these videos, muchly appreciated.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Hello and I'm glad you liked it my friend!

[@benthere8051]

A pencil sharpener is a good example of chef Alton Brown's unitasker. Its sole purpose in life is to generate shavings, often to the exclusion of something that could be more important. For that reason, it is of less importance than a multitasker, such as a knife.

[@Reallybigmonkey1]

Very well said!