The Nessmuk and Kephart trio is DEAD!

[@honorableoutfitters]

Check out the suggested gear! www.amazon.com/shop/honorableoutfittersmr.dyersmusings?ref=ac_inf_hm_vp. 🎉

[@CommonManTools]

i have carried a mora classic 2, a case trapper and a Norlund bay Hudson pattern axe for years and will for the rest of my life. no issues and will always work.

[@markjg2275]

Nothing old school traditional is outdated. The Kephart and Nessmuk knives worked well in the 1800s and they will work today. I own both custom forged versions and they are excellent. I also have a hand forged tomahawk and silky saw as well as Great eastern cutlery pocket knives Ben Hogan , #87 Jack knife and others . I love the old traditional knives of the old west frontier and single action revolvers and lever action rifles more than anything new today.

[@honorableoutfitters]

I love all the above and my 73' Winchester is by far my favorite rifle. It is just so much fun!

[@texaspete2549]

I couldn't agree more! If they worked so well back in the day when people's lives depended on their tools working properly, then when we all go play in the woods and make videos and then go get in our car and stop through a drive through after they will Excell. I edc a kephart knife, a small trapper, a bigger jack knife, and a multi tool everyday. Only difference is I prefer a tomahawk over an axe simply for ease of storage/handle making.

[@texaspete2549]

On a side note single action 45 lc, lever action, and coach gun is the absolute G.O.A.T

[@KosherCookery]

I think the hatchet absolutely still has a place. There's just nothing better for breaking down big chunks of wood, and it lets you abandon batoning and carry a belt knife with a thinner blade that is more useful for a wider range of slicing tasks.

[@honorableoutfitters]

Do you have a preferred hatchet style or head weight?

[@KosherCookery]

@@honorableoutfitters I have a trade axe/tomahawk that I really like. It's about 20 inches long with a smallish 3/4 pound head. Not traditional, maybe, but I live in the southwest and don't need much oomf. I'm a relatively small guy, and the size works well for me.

[@bushleague3472]

@@KosherCookery Cool, till now I've figured that it made more sense to either carry a real axe or an actual hatchet. I recently acquired a small True Temper head though, and I think I'll put it on a 20" handle just to try a "tweener axe".

[@MrRourk]

All about Virginia Pole Axe, Metis Knife, and Moremaker Pump Traper Knife.

[@cocabandi]

Great, the voice of common sense. Thank you very much.

[@honorableoutfitters]

Thank you for the kindness friend!

[@stevefisher2121]

Carry my Case Trapper every day - never let me down. Great video!!!!!!

[@honorableoutfitters]

I also have a case trapper and LOVE it!

[@stevefisher2121]

@@honorableoutfitters it is a true American classic!!!

[@markmueller5508]

Swiss Army knife was the predecessor of the scout knife. SAKs date back to the late 1890s, ten years before the founding of Scouting. Btw: I agree with your choice of tools, pocket and belt knives and hatchet, but also sometimes include a pruning saw or use the saw on the SAK.

[@honorableoutfitters]

REALLY!? I honest to goodness didn't know that! I could've sworn I heard they came out in the late 1940's. I should have done my due diligence and did some research before I spoke, now I have to correct it post script. I appreciate you letting me know brother!

[@keithorbell8946]

@@honorableoutfittersthe first Swiss Army Knives were developed in the 1880’s and first issued in the 1890’s as part of a Swiss Government requirement to provide a multi tool to their soldiers whose primary purpose was to service and maintain the newly adopted rifle, while also providing the soldier with a useful camp tool. However multi-bladed pocket tool type knives had been produced by cutlers in Sheffield and Solingen for centuries.

[@ironmikehallowween]

When I was a young boy, my father ensured I had a pocket knife at all times. When in the woods, I had a belt knife and a hatchet in addition to my pocket knife. I have learned to appreciate saws with my SAKS and silky, but for decades, I never needed them out there. They do make some things easier to accomplish. However, I can’t imagine not having a hatchet or small axe in the wilderness. There are so many things a saw just can’t do as well. But, I have a saw on almost every multi tool I have, and the silky is a beast, so I doubt I would ever be without either these days, if I had a choice. Thanks for the video.

[@honorableoutfitters]

Me too, what type of Silky do you have and carry brother?

[@rickc4317]

Nicely said, Mr. Dyer and I agree with your thoughts. I daily carry a small Swiss Army knife for the tweezers, toothpick, file and scissors and small blade for splinters, etc. along with a larger locking blade knife as well clipped to a pocket. When hiking or camping the locking blade knife is traded for a good belt knife and the Swiss army is still in my pocket. When I'm hunting, there's no belt knife but instead are 2 fixed blade knives in my pack; one for field dressing and one for skinning and still the Swiss army always in my pocket.

[@honorableoutfitters]

That's a solid loadout. Hard to beat a SAK :)I hope you are doing well my friend!

[@longrider42]

I take a Pocket knife, a Swiss Army Deluxe Tinker, and old school Gerber Multi Pliers, with full sized Jaws, a belt knife and I have many to choose from, a Saw, in my case the Stanley Folding Pocket saw that uses 6 inch blades. And lastly, a Hatchet or Tomahawk, I have a few of those to choose from. I like having the right tool for the job.

[@honorableoutfitters]

Oooooooo, I need to check out the Stanley saw. I love all their stuff and did not realize they made one! Thank you!

[@jamesellsworth9673]

I'm in the camp that takes a multitool with needlenose pliers and a wirecutter. I'm not good with knots, so I use wire to hold limbs together for framing a shelter. I like a ring-locking No. 8 Opinel folder for food preparation but I don't think folders have a strong enough joint to stand up to serious pioneer work. There are 'Outers' who use a small woodcarving hatchet for slicing as well as for chopping wood. Some of them don't feel the need to bring a straight knife. I DO like a Silky folding saw that is sized to cut the smaller diameter trunks that I would use for shelter building and for fire making.

[@honorableoutfitters]

I watch Alone and enjoy seeing what the contestants do with wire. I want to add an Opinel some day.

[@andrewb9590]

For the weight, especially in fixed camp, a quintet is nice - folding knife, belt knife, multi-tool, axe, and saw of your choice. Good video discussing the concepts.

[@honorableoutfitters]

Agreed my friend. I need to work on refining my in place camp tools. I have traditional splitting and chopping axes but don't have any experience with the middle ground Forrester's axe. It's on my list.

[@carvedwood1953]

Honestly though the folding knife and multi tool are redundant. You are better off with a multi-tool, belt knife, axe, and saw IMO.

[@rahtoren6385]

I always have axe belt knife or bow saw and pocket knife. Now kinda like leather man multi tool knife but if have that on me carried in my truck. Bush craft ,pioneering lol scout

[@honorableoutfitters]

A multitool knife is hard to beat. The normal selection of tools surpass what a SAK is capable of. 😁

[@rickpatenaude2719]

Ageless Wisdom, my Friend!Praying for you all for your continuing service!

[@honorableoutfitters]

Thank you and God bless brother!

[@leemichel8199]

Right tools for the right job .all tools depend on location .if you fail to prepare .prepare for failure .! God bless you and your family and merry Christmas and a happy New Year to you all. Lee x

[@OverOnTheWildSide]

Good points, I do so much less than most people I guess. I only carry my fixed blade knife and no pocket knife. Maybe I’ll learn some of those skills that’s handy to have a folding blade for.

[@honorableoutfitters]

Lol, if I had to choose one over the other it would be a belt knife too.

[@deans9766]

I see them as concepts not specific items. Basically a fine work cutting tool (or multi-tool), heavier work tool and a wood processing tool(s). It can be adapted to the area you are working in. I've noticed the Japanese bushcrafters typcally carry a saw and a Japanese style hatchet(nata) together.

[@honorableoutfitters]

That is a great way of looking at it and agree my friend!

[@deans9766]

@@honorableoutfitters I originally ran into that line of thought when I was researching the 10 essentials as my sons troops advisor to the Quartermasters. We do more activities in desert and dry mountain environments on the west coast vs the east coast and need to adapt accordingly.

[@ROE1300]

👍 Excellent food for thought. I am going to try a Trio that includes 1) Victorinox Farmer X, 2) a Kephart style hatchet, and 3) a Bacho Laplander saw. The pocket knife has the tools (blade, small saw, bottle opener/screw driver, awl, can opener) for miscellaneous jobs and most cutting tasks. The hatchet can do all other cutting/chopping/buttoning tasks. The saw can efficiently procure larger wood for a fire or building tasks. With this combination my goal will be to see if a belt knife is really necessary or simply a nice to have. We’ll see. 🤷🏻‍♂️

[@honorableoutfitters]

I would suspect that you probably could do without the belt knife since the smaller kephart axe if sharpened well could "handle" tasks much like a belt knife. If necessary, you could process a moose with a pocket knife and a small axe. Come back and let me know what you find out!

[@ROE1300]

@@honorableoutfitters The hatchet I have is Kephart style made by Ike Bullington at Wolf Valley Forge. This hatchet came razor sharp and I have been able to maintain the edge. I have had success on day hikes using it as both a chopping (axe) and cutting (knife) tool. As you have, I believe, said the pole also makes a serviceable hammer. Years ago I saw the video version of a Canadian short film made in the 1950s or 1960s where a reporter and an experienced guide spent considerable time in the wilderness of Eastern Canada. The only items they took with them were the clothes on their backs and a forest axe. They survived and filmed their adventure.

[@ROE1300]

The documentary film I mentioned was shot in 1954 was titled “Survival in the Bush” and produced by the National Film Board of Canada.

[@honorableoutfitters]

@@ROE1300 thank you my friend!

[@teatowel11]

I suspect you'll miss the belt knife if you do much food prep or wood carving. I have a benchmade bugput which has a more usefull blade than a multi tool but lighter than a belt knife. Good for food prep and misc stuff but not good working with wood. I carry a leatherman squirt as a multi tool which is tiny but i only find i ise the pliers as a pot grabber or to remove splinters etc and the file is good.

[@kurtbaier6122]

I was in Scouts in the 1960s and 70s. and then between 2000-2009. A lot of changes occurred over the decades, and not for the better. I reintroduced a lot of skills that had been lost. Been in the woods most of my life. My EDC is either an SAK or BSA folding knife. I’m not a multitool kind of guy. I don’t use pliers much at home or in the woods. My fixed blade is either a Scandi or v grind. A blacksmith friend made me several knives. But my beloved hatchet has now been retired much of the time and here is why. If the wood is dead I either break it or saw it. If the wood is green I either saw it or chop it. And my fires tend to be small. I only process what I can get by with, especially since I can add long pieces to a small fire. The fact is for me a fire is usually for a quick meal, and second for warmth. I don’t need to buck up a lot. Clearing branches and brush, fire management and digging a cat hole are necessary tasks whether on a hike, overnight or 3 day campout. I find my Cold Steel shovel with a shortened handle to be very handy, and is an okay hammer. I have recently cut down a long machete and modified it to replace the shovel for hikes and over nighters. I’m looking forward to getting outdoors again. I put few stakes in the ground anymore and mostly during car camping. I find generally speaking that what you decide to eat will determine what kind of mess kit ( still use my BSA kit a lot), and what kind of fire you will make, and what tools to bring. I use my SAK and BSA knife a lot. I try and get by with the least and lightest kit when I have to carry it. The Scout haversack was my first pack. Dead of Summer it sort of worked, but to small for a 3 day campout when backpacking. I latter went to the Yucca pack, and then a Kelly frame pack, and then to an Alice pack with military down bag. Alice is still my girl. And down is my preferred insulated kit. A wool military shirt is very useful. I enjoy your channel.

[@honorableoutfitters]

Your experiences, purpose driven reasons are sound wisdom my friend!

[@beowulf_of_wall_st]

Even when you're winter camping knowledgeable people aren't generally splitting wood for fires in large quantity, it's very energy intensive and you're better off just feeding big logs into the fire gradually rather than 'processing' the wood. Getting sweaty in the cold busting up frozen logs is a bad choice. Set up camp near a fallen tree, lop off a bunch of branches, build your fire against one end of the trunk and either feed it in or follow the trunk as it burns. Splitting wood is something you do when you don't really need a fire and feel like playing around.

[@jackvoss5841]

Pounding with a hatchet - or an axe - can be very handy. It can also ruin some of them. The thickness and kind of metal in the steel wall that holds the handle may very well not be built to withstand the pounding. Some hatchets and axes will bend the metal surrounding the handle, and widen the hole. If not properly reinforced, the hole can become wider, the handle loosen, the head wobble. It becomes use,essentially and dangerous. Courtesy of Half Vast Flying

[@NDSTRUCTIBLE1]

My modern traditional system is as follows Fixed Blade Knife: LT Wright Genesis Scandi Camp Knife: LT Wright Jessmuk C Multi-Tool Knife: MKM Mercury Campo Extra Tool: Mercury Rover Small Fixed Blade: LT Wright Bandit Camp Axe: Gransfors Bruk Small Forest Axe Model 420 Hatchet: Gransfors Bruk Wildlife Hatchet Model 415 Saw: Bob Dustrude Quick Buck Saw My modern system is as follows Fix Blade Knife: Bradford Guardian5.5 Camp Knife: TJ Schwarz Overland Multi Tool Knife: Leatherman Signal Extra Tool: Mercury Rover Small Fixed Blade: White River Exodus 3 Camp Axe: Fiskars N10 Hatchet: Fiskars N7 Saw: Bahco Laplander

[@honorableoutfitters]

Very prepared my friend!

[@jackvoss5841]

I have had different experiences with Swiss Army knives than some others have had. I read and hear honorific praise for them. So, I tried. Three Swiss Army knives later, my findings a different than what I had expected. They came apart, every one of them. I found them to be gadgets that never stood up. I was disappointed. I’m used to folding knives, and own several. I carry one every day. I did not misuse the Swiss knives. I’m glad others like them, but frankly I wouldn’t waste my money on one. I think that a section of a hacksaw blade is way more reliable and useful. Courtesy of Half Vast Flying

[@turtlewolfpack6061]

My saw and my hatchet/tomahawk/axe compliment each other very well. That said, I often catch myself just carrying my khukuri instead along with a saw.

[@honorableoutfitters]

@BlackieThomas and others have got me wanting to try a Kukuri :)

[@turtlewolfpack6061]

@@honorableoutfitters be careful where you shop. Despite all the positive videos out there KHHI (in my experience) is a 50/50 hit or miss. Kailash Blades is good. I personally prefer an 8-10" blade in the Mark 5 style with the hidden tang.

[@Cabur_Skirata]

I never thought of the saw that way, in how it requires a much more involved and unique maintenance method than knives and axes. I think the main reason many say the hatchet isn't necessary is because, at least in America, we seem determined to force our knives into wood splitting roles via batoning.

[@honorableoutfitters]

Thanks for the comment friend!

[@ChateauBeaufort]

Knife & Folder are "ONE" item... Saws, can be small enough... & even a flexible blade alone is easily carried & quickly mounted on a bow (bushcraft for you). An 12" Hatchet is not too heavy to carry either... along with a "Hori-Hori" Japanese "soil-knife" for a ditching tool (will "ditch" water away from the tent floor & dig a latrine). Hori-Hori pairs well with the hatchet, (& an 1 & 1/2"Auger is a must: will add legs to a chair: A Handful with 5 fingers😎)

[@honorableoutfitters]

Great kit list, I still need to add an auger to mine.

[@mikewhite7462]

I am still old school, it worked then, and it works now.

[@charlesmckinney]

I live in Indiana. When I was 24 years old and got my discharge from the Seabees I'm wanted to take to the woods. I was on the verge of getting married and didn't have much money to buy kit but I did already own a Swiss Army knife and a hatchet. I bought a Full Tang fixed blade sheath knife made by Western and that was my cutlery. Still have them. I'm 71 now. Sometimes if I want silence I will take a saw along with my Hatchet and use the saw.

[@honorableoutfitters]

I absolutely adore my Western that I inherited from my momma. It hold its edge wonderfully, I bet yours does too!

[@charlesmckinney]

@@honorableoutfitters indeed it does. It was one of the bigger westerns with the five and a half inch long high carbon steel blade almost quarter of an inch thick with wood slab handles

[@LaoWaiJac]

We are limited to our own physical shape, the further back in history you want to camp as, the better in shape you have to be. I portaged the continental divide of the Pacific and Arctic Oceans in traditional gear. With all the weight of the canvas, wool and iron it was heavy, when it rained things got so much heavier really quickly despite of the amounts of wax I had applied. I resorted to my back up silicon tarp in the end. It was wet and argues but I Loved every moment. My three way is, GOS hawk, large fixed blade, and neck knife.

[@honorableoutfitters]

Now those are adventures! My best outdoor adventure was canoeing and portaging the boundary waters. I want to get out there again some day!

[@LaoWaiJac]

@@honorableoutfitters You are welcome to come visit. I enjoy taking people in there. Historically significant in regards to Alexander Mackenzie being the first non First Nations to come through the pass. Check it out, Arctic Lake Provincial Park.

[@danewood2309]

I totaly agree, there's a reason that the "trinity" worked in the past, and I think it still works now. I originaly started camping, hiking and Hunting when I was a kid with my Uncles, as a Child I started off with a single blade pocket knife and a hatchet, as taught by my Uncles ...then received a 4" thin bladed sheath knife when I was 11 for Christmas, which I added to my Kit. Over the intervening 50 years I've carried an assortment of knives and hatchets. Nowadays my carry changes depending on what I'm doing , I usualy carry my Wetterlings Hunting Axe with the 20 " handle that I bought 30 years ago, my 6" knife that I made 25 Years ago, and my 3" Pocket Knife, the Perfect combination for me...but if I'm hiking and I'm away from woods and don't need heavy wood processing or shelter building, then I switch those out for my light 1lb hatchet with a 12" handle, my 5" Puuko and my 8cm Opinel folder .

[@honorableoutfitters]

Opinels are so underrated :)

[@YankeeWoodcraft]

Kephart, who also like pliers, would replace the pocket knife with a multitool these days. For me, it's a boy's axe (usually my Hudson's Bay), a 7" folding saw (Silky Gomboy Outback), a sheath knife (BHK Scout) and now, a pocket knife (Case Hunter). There's absolutely no reason for any human being with an X and a Y chromosome to "not" carry the 8oz a good quality saw weighs.

[@honorableoutfitters]

Kephart mentions in his book to take a pruning saw in a camp kit too, so they were available and he saw some merit in it. I am certain he would smile favorably on your kit. :)

[@YankeeWoodcraft]

@@honorableoutfitters I would hope so. 😊 Thanks.

[@frankmcmanus5142]

Just found your channel and subscribed. I dont get out much really lately but always have an sak in my pocket regardless. I tend to keep it simple tho by just carrying the trio. My trio consists of a Victorinox Farmer X , a cheap hatchet (it holds an edge quite well and is comfortable to use ). My preferred fixed blade is a Buck import that my kids gave me about 20 years ago ,again it holds an edge and fits my hand perfectly . I do have 3 moras and a Bahco saw but just like that Buck too much to change and the Bahco gets used more around the house more than in the woods, lol. Loo,ing forward to checking out more of your videos . Thx .

[@marleymiller2730]

Belt knife, multi tool, saw blade(wear around your belt, you can fashion the h frame from wood w a hatchet) and a hatchet. This is the way

[@honorableoutfitters]

This is true!

[@ravenbarsrepairs5594]

I usually only carry cutting tool types on any outing. A moderately sized knife of fixed blade or folding knife in the 3-4" size, and then a chopper(being a hatchet, tomahawk, kukri, or other larged fixed blade.,) A folding saw may be added due to the terrain/things I plan to do.

[@honorableoutfitters]

I plan on carrying a folding saw more this season. Time to expand my horizon a bit :)

[@ravenbarsrepairs5594]

@@honorableoutfitters As my Jeeps engines piston 4 decided it should send many large bits to the oil pan, my season is in question entirely.Everything going right, I should have the engine swapped out before the end of the month.

[@robertschaffer852]

Good weight or Bad weight? for me, my needs determines what I carry, either on my belt or in my pack....All great info tho! Thank you all!

[@bushleague3472]

Kephart, Nessmuk, Whelen, and Francis Sell etc... all preferred a two blade pocketknife, in many cases because the fixed blade was specifically for game processing. If your pocketknife is your primary cutting tool blades trump gadgets. In that context the hatchet is also vital, as your pocketknife wont be splitting much firewood. I suppose it could be called outdated since almost nobody lives off the land for months at a time anymore, which does make a modified approach more sensible.

[@honorableoutfitters]

Great summary my friend.

[@57WillysCJ]

A pocket knife with a good grade of steel can handle alot except for using it as a pry bar. They opened a lot of cans and were used to fashion gas cans in to expediant stoves. I really don't need more for fish and small game. Probably 101 uses around a farm. The only way for a person to know that is to use one for all their chores including ones in the kitchen. Peel potatoes, slice tomatoes and cut up a chicken with one. One reason I do not favor scout knives or SAKs is I like fast clean ups and openining all those blades to get the gunk out from cleaning a fish or animal and then drying it is a hassle. A stockman or if I have a lot of cleaning to do, then a Muskrat style is what I prefer. If I am not being period correct then I take both a folding saw and a hatchet. Even then if I am not carrying it a long way then a scout/boys ax comes along. Much of that comes from long habit. Habit and what you had as a kid or a young adult motivates what you do. I have nice pocket knives for when I go out to eat. I hate the knives restaurants provide so I pull out my knife and use when I eat. I probably get away with it because I am old.

[@honorableoutfitters]

That is a great explanation and I agree my friend. I have been in similar situations and thanked God for having my pocket knife on me and by itself was able to accomplish the task at hand.

[@inregionecaecorum]

So far as an SAK is concerned, I favour the farmer as that has a sturdier blade than the non Alox models as well as an extremely useful saw. I would also agree about keeping the hatchet, or some equivelent hefty blade such as a billhook or stick chopper. The belt knife, that is the one that is likely to raise most eyebrows in the modern world.

[@schmant1417]

SAK Huntsman is imo the perfect choice, every tool is usable and it's not missing anything

[@honorableoutfitters]

That is an excellent contemporary choice my friend!

[@dcmsr5141]

If you're out 2 to 3 wks., neck knife while in camp, take both the hatchet and the saw, they compliment each other, obviously on the spectrum there is some overlap, I mean if you have a 3-4 in. sapling, I'll use the axe, for processing the saw,. For "crafting" The Knife for sure, along with processing game. The neck knife, for small intricate work in camp. I wouldn't wear it outside of camp. My 2 cents and a wooden nickel.

[@SalientOutdoors]

I take a modern approach by making it a quartet! Sheath Knife, Hatchet, and Pocket knife, as normal with the addition of a folding camp saw. If folding saws were available back then in the quantity and quality they are now I am sure both Nessmuk, and Kephart would have likely included them.

[@honorableoutfitters]

They had pruning saws and Kephart mentions them in his tool kit for a standing camp but for a trek he chose to leave them behind. When you go out on a hike or trek, which do you tend to use more often, the saw or your hatchet? Thanks for your thoughts!

[@kickinthegob]

This works if you're travelling on even ground or have a canoe. I live in Norway and can tell you I have no intention to take 2 knives and a hatchet and haul them over steep mountains. I get by just fine with a folding saw and an Opinel. I have been away for up to 8 days in the mountains alone and have not needed anything more.

[@honorableoutfitters]

Are you a hunter? Nessmuk and Kephart were and certainly used their choice of axes for processing game as well as wood. Most modern woodsmen are not and I think a hatchet or saw is mostly unnecessary so long as there is sufficient deadfall in your area and the weather is dry. If it is wet then having a small hatchet to split open wood to get to dry center wood is really beneficial. A saw is great and better for building in my opinion.

[@kickinthegob]

@@honorableoutfitters I have hunted in the past and if I am after bird or small game, then I still see no need for an axe as the game can be cleaned and broken down with a small knife and then carried out in a framed pack. If I am taking the canoe or car camping, then an axe is brought along because I don't have to haul the weight. The issue is that for an extended trip where you are covering miles a day on uneven and swampy terrain, you need to pack light or face aching knees at the end of the day. I have made small fires even in very wet conditions by using birch bark. I also take kindling and put it in my pocket so that my body heat drives out the moisture as I walk. I do the same when I sleep by placing kindling in a cloth bag and throwing it in the footbox of my sleeping bag so it dries overnight. I have actually never needed to baton in all my years of camping and trekking (around 36 in total).

[@teatowel11]

In the eucalypt forrests of Australia, there is so much dead fall that you have plenty of wood of smaller diameter up to 6 inches that you never really have to split it. A saw for doing cross cuts to cut it to more usable lengths is way more practical than a hatchet. I would carry the saw always but would probably choose a hatchet OR a belt knife. If i am splitting short lengths of wood to get kindling or to use in my gasifier wood stove, a belt knife is is good enough. If i was doing a lot of wood processing, a hatchet might be better and then i'd rely on that and a pocket knife for everything. I'm interested in seeing how useful one of those ranger pocket knives with a blade, saw and awl are. Not sure if the saw is big enough but might suffice for cuttibg wrist size deadfall.

[@honorableoutfitters]

You make many points I relate with. In our forests we readily have dead fall to build a fire and even make basic camp gadgets. The only time I have really desired to have a hatchet is when I am building larger camp structures or gadgets because it cuts my time quickly in shaping and shortening. I always process my game at home so unlike Nessmuk who is in the field sustaining his trips I have no need for a hatchet specifically in a camp setting. Thanks for your thoughts my friend!

[@paulotoole4950]

You should check out the British army knife WW1 or 2 as it is basically a Scout knife except the awl is replaced by a marlin spike.

[@honorableoutfitters]

That's cool! The BSA made a Sea Scout knife that had a blade and marlin spike. They are pretty scarce.

[@_BigLife_]

Great video. Thanks for sharing

[@jenniferbauman4802]

Good video. All 5 go together. God bless. From Glenn CATT in Massachusetts.

[@honorableoutfitters]

Thank you greatly

[@DB.KOOPER]

No tool is ever "outdated" or "obsolete" if theres a need for it. I still use 100+ uear old tools in my wood shop regularly and I carry a pair of knives when hunting/camping that my Grandfather carried in WWII and was habded down to him by his grandfather (a similar old bail-end folder and a fixed blade).

[@honorableoutfitters]

Agreed my friend. Take care of that heirloom and it will take care of you! Thanks for sharing my friend!

[@toddevans4667]

A small hatchet makes splitting wood much easier also for extended trips.

[@honorableoutfitters]

Amen my friend!

[@toddevans4667]

@@honorableoutfitters & fyi just replace the blades on hand saw much easier

[@bilakos1987]

I was aware of the Nessmuk trio, but not the Kephart trio! Great video! :D Are there any other kits of famous outdoorsmen? Please let me know. Thanks!

[@honorableoutfitters]

Many! Here is just a small selection of great outdoor writers who had specific preferences honorableoutfitters.com/mr-dyers-reading-list/

[@rahtoren6385]

Carry now saw and hatchet plus knifes but have old pack can attach both to easy doesn't have the cloth loops but d rings not scout pack but could open se he t from 80s when I was in scouts. Ex framed..

[@honorableoutfitters]

Nice! I like the D rings on the pack to help lash things to it. Kinda like the molle system that is now so popular

[@meanbass]

Of course folding saws can also be a lot lighter for those backpacking in

[@honorableoutfitters]

This is very true! If I were more into fancy shelter building I think I would opt for a saw instead of a hatchet...but until I get some of my own property to dive into long term shelters I will likely stick with my hatchet.

[@meanbass]

@@honorableoutfitters yeah usually I never need to hack into anything, backpacking with a small tent basically I get away with a swiss army knife because I only need to prepare food and for making a fire, often its not necessary or even legal depending upon the campground in california.

[@thomasnewton9818]

I have a carpenters hatchet in my kit.

[@honorableoutfitters]

I love the versatility of the carpenters hatchet. Civil War soldiers often carried one for personal use since it was light weight and effective!

[@beowulf_of_wall_st]

A hatchet or small axe is non-negotiable imo. I've spent many snowy winter nights in the woods with an SAK and a cheap estwing hatchet. By all means bring more than that but if you have to pick one tool when your life depends on a fire, take the hatchet or small axe. A bigger knife is a nice-to-have unless you're skinning animals.

[@oldschoolwithamoderntwist6074]

,,hello my friend,,, i`m a big fan of the all in one tool,,The Ax,, just saying,,

[@honorableoutfitters]

Me too brother, I like the ease of handling a knife for cutting. Stay well brother!

[@bradjohnson4787]

They make things a lot lighter now so include the folding saw.

[@honorableoutfitters]

If I was going to build long term shelters I probably would. I need to get my own property to make that a thing to be worthwhile to me 😀

[@leemichel8199]

Take my SAK everywhere. I only ever end up using the scissors.

[@CashMoneyKennels]

We use Machetes in the tropics

[@honorableoutfitters]

Makes a sense. Some day, if I'm lucky I may get to experience tropical forest. The diversity fascinates me but I'll be sure to bring bug spray and netting, lol.

[@KiltPatrick]

Old does not mean "outdated". Advancements in technology, materials, information, social cues, and ways of thinking are what dictates "outdated". Old does not mean "bad". It's very capable, to this day. There are just new options available now.

[@jimsullender3435]

I'm a old trapper and would be lost without a hatchet or my knives ! I can't see any since in beating a good knife like a wood wedge .

[@honorableoutfitters]

Agreed and having a poll to hammer items is a great benefit

[@thelastron]

I'm near Cincinnati, where you from?

[@honorableoutfitters]

Greetings brother buckeye! Near Columbus, I'm a bit jealous of your close proximity to Jungle Jim's :)

[@thelastron]

@@honorableoutfitters Yeah it's a great grocery store, way better than Kroger.

[@fredfoster6195]

Nessmuk chose a moose pattern proably the best knife forskinning and trap making

[@honorableoutfitters]

Especially small game!

[@CarlSanford76]

Can't we carry them all? A folding saw is not very heavy.

[@honorableoutfitters]

You could, but which is more useful to you and your needs and weight is always a consideration when packing farther than your car.

[@thomaschainey3230]

Bring all 4

[@honorableoutfitters]

That'll work too!

[@reneewood3171]

All the above

[@krishoogstraat6866]

Well said. I like em all ! I carry em all ! Hahahaha

[@honorableoutfitters]

Then you can't go wrong brother! I hope you are doing well my friend.

[@dougdumbrill7234]

Super sad to have to bring up, but a hatchet/tomahawk is a very credible weapon in self defense!😳😢

[@honorableoutfitters]

Well, you're not wrong! Happy Thanksgiving friend!

[@pennsyltuckyreb9800]

For what MOST folks do in the woods today (and I'm an avid outdoorsman/hunter/fisher/camper/hiker/bushcrafter myself), having the "old" trio isn't as necessary. A large, sturdy blade (something Kephart would poke fun at) and a saw takes care of 99% of what I do out there, even in winter.

[@beowulf_of_wall_st]

Until you're out there in the cold bashing a hard steel knife and you hear that 'ping' that means you have a serious problem in the form of a broken knife. Knives that cut well aren't made to be beaten on.

[@pennsyltuckyreb9800]

@beowulf_of_wall_st I agree. I have my axes. I just mean for what MOST folks do out there, even in winters, they can get away with a large, sturdy blade. Like, if you have the properly rated sleeping bag, you're not worried about processing tons of large, frozen hardwoods and such. Now, if I'm putting together a SHTF/INCH/TEOTWAWKI bag... yeah, I'll include my axe because there will be a definite need for substantial shelters, near constant fire use for warmth, cooking, etc (if you're in a permissive environment and area), etc

[@beowulf_of_wall_st]

@@pennsyltuckyreb9800 yea that's fair. i think it comes down to how far away you are from civilization, if you might get stuck out there for a few days the ability to make a big fire is invaluable, though the saw does somewhat take the place of the axe there.

[@quinlan-sf7nj]

a saw is nearly vital.

[@honorableoutfitters]

For bushcrafting things I would say it is more useful than the hatchet. Cleaner and more precise cuts make more comfortable furniture and eye appealing projects. Thanks for your thoughts!

[@CashMoneyKennels]

You only need a machete and a torch and a lighter to thrive in the bush

[@CashMoneyKennels]

Add fixed blade or pocket knife if you wanna jazz it up

[@honorableoutfitters]

In my area I would argue that a machete is overkill though it would do the tasks! Do you live in an area with a ton of overgrowth?

[@mobilegamersunite]

Silky saw...and hatchet 😅 and always keep a gun. Aliens 👽 like to steal people out of the woods apparently 🙄 😂

[@honorableoutfitters]

lol, I generally carry a .38 Special for such an occasion. It must be working, I haven't seen an alien yet!

[@mobilegamersunite]

@honorableoutfitters .38...do you go out in bear country? 🐻 or any place with cougars roaming around? 🤔

[@honorableoutfitters]

We have some black bear in Ohio and there have been limited sightings of cougars but we mostly have coyotes and trash pandas, lol. Bobcats will leave you alone with some noise.

[@mobilegamersunite]

@honorableoutfitters I'm not going without a 45....a 460 rowland for bears. You are a brave man...have you had to actually d3al with an angry bear before? My family is from Siberia...I'm guessing the bears here are different... We don't go into Siberian woods without a 7.62 AK variant. You can't even drop the rifle to take a piss, it has to be held at all times.

[@mobilegamersunite]

@honorableoutfitters I'm not going without a 45....a 460 rowland for bears. You are a brave man...have you had to actually d3al with an angry bear before? My family is from Siberia...I'm guessing the bears here are different... We don't go into Siberian woods without a 7.62 AK variant. You can't even drop the rifle to take a piss, it has to be held at all times.

[@FerndaleMichiganUSA]

Well does it or doesnt it. Lame intro.

[@honorableoutfitters]

I appreciate the feedback friend. Happy New Year!