How To Choose The Best Hiking Headlamp For Bugging Out

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In a survival situation, timing is everything. The extra couple seconds it takes you to reach something in your pack can very literally mean the difference between life and death – especially if that item is needed for first aid or self-defense. Having both hands available at all times can be a huge advantage, and a great way to ensure you can maneuver hands-free is by wearing a headlamp.

In survival situations, headlamps (or headtorches, depending on where you hail from) are extremely convenient and useful, as well as having a variety of applications outside of survival situations including outdoor / camping adventures and home projects.

However, there isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach, different circumstances will require headlamps of a certain quality. While you may not be concerned with the quality of headlamp you’re using to complete repairs in your garage, you’ll definitely want to ensure the one in your bug-out-bag is the best headtorch for your needs.

In this article, we delve into the key features that differentiate the best headtorches from the mediocre, what you should look for in a headlamp, and provide our top picks for:

The most powerful / best LED headlamp
Best hiking headlamp
Best camping headlamp
Best compact headlamp

Choosing the Best LED Headlamp

The primary function of a headlamp – whether it be for camping, home use, or survival – is hands-free illumination. There are a variety of add-ons that come with certain models, but generally, an LED headlamp is not considered a multi-use item.

Why use a headlamp? Consider the various situations you may find yourself in and how hands-free illumination could make those situations substantially easier. If you’ve ever tried to set up camp in the dark or quickly reach supplies in your pack, you know the value of having both hands free. If you find yourself in a power outage, a great hiking headlamp will allow you to navigate a dark basement and check the breaker or make repairs quickly and easily with both hands at your disposal.

In a survival situation, LED headlamps can also function as excellent signalling devices – particularly those with either a strobe or SOS setting – and are less likely to be dropped or lost as they are strapped to your head. Additionally, the use of LEDs has led to brighter lighting and longer lasting battery life, meaning that most of the best headtorches can be used for several hours a day for well over a month before their battery power runs out.

So what qualities should you look for when searching for the best headtorch? Your priorities may differ depending on whether you are looking for the best hiking headlamp, best camping headlamp, or best LED headlamp; and ultimately, how you intend to use your headlamp. Generally, when choosing the best headtorch, you will want to look for the following: brightness, distance and battery life; comfort, weight, and size; and IP rating for water resistance, IK ratings for shock resistance, and durability.

How Powerful Should Your Headlamp Be?

Brightness

The brightness of your LED headlamp will determine how far you will be able to see, and how far you need to see is determined by the specific activities you intend to use your headlamp for and your climate. In some cases, a headlamp with exceptionally long range may not be necessary if the tasks you will be performing are close at hand, such as reading and repairs. However, if you intend to use your LED headtorch for tasks such as scavenging for supplies or monitoring your perimeter for security, you will definitely want a headlamp capable of scanning long distances. Additionally, the climate you live in can play a role in the brightness required from your headlamp as light travels furthest in dry air; therefore, an arid climate would require less light than a humid one.

Distance

To ensure you have an available option for almost any visibility scenario, select a headlamp with a combination of floodlight and spotlight settings. A floodlight can light up an entire campsite while the focused beam of a spotlight can pinpoint a distant object. Additionally, strobes can be very useful for signaling as well as running in the night, while an SOS signal can be vital in a survival situation.

Battery Life

In a survival situation, preserving battery power will be essential, as will having more than one battery option. Many survivalists opt for headlamps with both white and red LEDs to maximize battery life. The red light setting can be used for low-light tasks such as reading, as this setting is both easier on the batteries and eyes. Brighter lights will run your batteries down faster, so if finding a power source will be an issue, you may want to cut back on the Lumens or numbers of LEDs in your headlamp.

Balancing Comfort and Size

Much like your bug-out-bag, for your best headtorch choice, you want to select one that is both comfortable and lightweight, especially if you will be traveling frequently at night.

Comfort

If you plan on wearing your headlamp for extended periods or while you are running or climbing, a top strap can be a desirable option as this adds stability. Whether or not you choose to wear a top strap, make sure to adjust the band so that it fits snugly enough to keep the light in place while you shake your head. To eliminate neck strain, choose a headlamp with an adjustable light angle.

Weight

Both the number of lights and type of battery will affect the weight of your headlamp. Make sure that the model you choose is the best headtorch for your needs and of a weight that you can reasonably support for an extended period of time.

Size

The more LEDs, the brighter your light – but with each additional LED you are adding to the overall size and weight of your headlamp and increasing the draw on your batteries. Depending on your needs, decide what the ideal size and number of LEDs is that you can reasonably support without the headlamp being too heavy or depleting the batteries too quickly.

Does It Stand Up To The Elements?

Water Resistance

The IP rating refers to Ingress Protection Marking or International Protection Marking. It rates the protection of mechanical and electrical parts against solid particles and liquids. If there is an ‘X,’ this signifies that there is no rating available for this criteria, as in the case of IPX4 where the ‘X’ indicates the item is not dust rated and has a water resistance of 4 (meaning it can withstand splashing but not submersion).

Shock Resistance

The IK rating refers to mechanical impact and measures how many joules of downward force the object can endure. For the majority of consumer products, shock resistance ratings are typically given in meters, indicating the height at which the item can be dropped from and still withstand the impact.

Durability

For durability, choose an LED headlamp that has fantastic impact resistance, especially for use in survival scenarios.

Please see the table below for IP and IK ratings:

IP- 1st #	Protection	IP - 2nd #	Protection	IK	Protection
0	None	0	None	00	None
1	Solid objects over 50 mm	1	Vertically falling droplets (rain)	01-05	Impact <1 joule
2	Solid objects over 12 mm	2	Direct sprays 15 degrees from vertical (slanting rain)	06	Impact 1 joule
3	Solid objects over 2.5 mm	3	Direct sprays 60 degrees from vertical (small splashes)	07	Impact 2 joules
4	Solid objects over 1 mm	4	Spray from all directions	08	Impact 5 joules
5	Limited protection against dust	5	Low pressure jets from all directions	09	Impact 10 joules
6	Total protection against dust	6	Strong jets or splashes	10	Impact 20 joules
		7	Submersion up to 1 meter
		8	Long periods of immersion under pressure

Our Top Picks For Best-In-Class Headlamps

Most Powerful / Best LED Headlamp

Our Pick: Fenixlight HP25R

Review:

A clear winner on brightness, with 1000 lumen maximum output
It runs on rechargeable batteries, which can last up to 1.5 on turbo or 96 hours on eco mode
There are multiple light options including four levels of steady floodlight and three levels of steady spotlight, resulting in twelve different combinations, as well as an additional SOS strobe option
There is a 60 degree tilt mechanism with a lockout design that prevents the headlamp from accidentally turning on while packed in a bag
It is impact resistant up to one meter with an IPX6 waterproof rating and a sturdy aluminum chassis designed to shed heat and handle impact
A drawback of this model is its weight – at 8 oz., without batteries, this is one of the heavier headlamps available; however, the weight is supported by a center strap and balanced with the battery pack on the back
This headlamp does not contain any red LEDs but can dim to 4 Lumens

Best Hiking Headlamp

Our Pick: Vitchelo Waterproof IPX6

Review:

At a mere 3.2 oz., this headlamp packs a powerful beam of light into a compact design that takes up very little real estate, making it the ideal choice for the best hiking headlamp
It has a high waterproof rating and separate buttons to control the red and white lights, both of which can be set to steady or flashing (for a total of six lighting modes)
There is an adjustable tilt of 45 degrees that directs light where you need it
This headlamp will run on three AAA batteries (included) and provide up to 120 hours of lighting
A moderately priced option, this is your best pick for a hiking headlamp

Best Camping Headlamp

Our Pick: Black Diamond Icon

Review:

The Black Diamond Icon is our choice for the best camping headlamp as it has the most options for lighting scenarios and a lock mode to prevent it from switching beams while on the move
It includes one quad power, two single white LEDs, and two single red LEDs, which emit as much as 200 Lumens over a distance of 100 meters; this provides more than enough light to set up camp or search for firewood in the dark, and the two red LEDs are bright enough for reading and other low-light tasks
There is a dimmer that precisely adjusts your lighting and a strobe setting for signaling
At IPX7, you can feel free to traverse a waterway without worrying about losing the use of your light
This headlamp is lightweight and comfortable; it includes a removable strap that can be added for stability or customizing the fit over a hat or other headgear
There is a handy battery life indicator that will let you know when when there is 50% and 20% of power remaining, providing you with ample warning to adjust your light level if need be, i.e. prolonged use is required
This headlamp can be powered by four AA batteries (included) or a rechargeable NRG battery (sold separately)

Conclusion

A reliable, quality headlamp not only makes an excellent addition to your survival gear, but also to your general equipment for outdoor activities and daily tasks.

The benefits of having a dedicated light source that stays put while you are hiking, running, or climbing, are endless; as are the benefits of being able to work freely with both hands while maintaining constant illumination.

When choosing the best LED headlamp for your needs, make sure to select one that provides an adequate level of lighting in a model that fits you comfortably.

Look for headtorches that have multiple light settings and angle adjustability, as these qualities will increase the versatility and usefulness of your headlamp. Additional considerations, especially for outdoor use, are the levels of water and shock resistance and having more than one battery option available.

Always remember, chance favors the well-prepared – and especially the well-equipped!

Your Thoughts?

Do you own a headlamp? Would you choose a headlamp as your primary light source for your bug-out-bag? What benefits or drawbacks do you feel are most significant?

Share your thoughts in the Comments Section below, thanks!

Nitecore Mega Review – 2 Flashlights + A Titanium Tactical Pen

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In this review article, I’ll give you the rundown on a trio of tools from Nitecore including the general-use EA21 flashlight and the EDC-focused MT06 flashlight and NTP10 Titanium Pen.

I’ve had these tools for several weeks now, and have had plenty of opportunities to put them through their paces. The MT06 EDC light and NTP10 tactical pen have been riding with me daily as part of my EDC gear. Meanwhile, the EA21 has served me well on home duty and on a few camping trips.

Read on to see how I tested them and what I thought!

nitecore-review-flashlight-intro — Top to bottom: NPT10 Titanium Tactical Pen, MT06 EDC Light, and EA21 Flashlight

EA21 Nitecore Flashlight Review:

The EA21 has proven to be a very useful, versatile light. As mentioned, I’ve used it primarily as a general-purpose light for both around the house chores and camp duty. Before we get to the real dirt, let’s hit some quick points:

All the output options you could ask for: 5 brightness settings ranging between 1 and 360 lumens plus Strobe, Beacon, and SOS modes.
Handy 5” x 1” size makes for easy storage in a bag, cargo pocket, or glove box.
Drop-proof LED for those all-too-common impacts.
Built to withstand dunking in a deep creek with IPX-8 water submersion resistance.
Light, sub-4oz weight including 2x AA batteries.
Multi-position metal clip to suit every carry option.
Includes a carry pouch, spare o-rings for backups or maintenance, and a lanyard attachment option.

nitecore-review-flashlight-11 — Nitecore Review: EA21 Flashlight comes with multi-position clip, lanyard, spare o-rings, and carry pouch that clips easily to a belt or MOLLE webbing.

So Many Options . . .

I’m not ashamed to admit that after pulling this light out of the box I had to look over the instruction booklet to figure out how to use all its modes. After getting used to it, I’ve found I really like the functionality of the unique dual button setup, which became intuitive after a short learning curve.

I can easily go into Turbo mode (a blinding 360 lumens) or Ultra-low mode (1 lumen) or just turn the unit on and off without cycling through all the other brightness and strobe settings. If you need them, however, these emergency modes are quickly accessible. The buttons also provide a nifty locking function that keeps the light from being accidentally turned on when it’s packed in your bag.

Battery Smart

A neat function that I haven’t seen often is the inclusion of a battery power indicator. A simple battery uninstall/reinstall procedure will key a secondary red LED light to let you know how much life the installed batteries have left.

On that note, the EA21 has got enough smarts programmed in it to automatically adjust brightness after twenty minutes on the high setting to keep from killing the batteries or overheating. As an aside, that red LED is also available as a secondary illumination option for low light needs such as map reading and other situations where you want to preserve your night vision.

nitecore-review-flashlight-9 — Nitecore Review: Compact EA21 flashlight fits well in a pack or cargo pocket. Dual button control is very useful once you get the hang of it.

My Testing

In my real world use of the EA21 I got to search around for my breaker panel after a power surge at my home. A week or so later I had some furry night creature digging around in my campsite. When the little critter got close to blindness after I shined the full Turbo setting on him, he went scurrying on his way. I was able to follow him with the light while he ran across a field and disappeared into some trees a hundred or so yards away.

One thing to note is that as with most intensely bright LED lights, the EA21 gets pretty hot after about ten minutes on the high output setting. I’d be hesitant to stick it right back into a pack or touch the business end of it with my bare hand after extended use. It’s also a little big to be carried in a jeans pocket. I would say that the Nitecore EA21 is best suited to keep in a pack, vehicle, black out kit, or medium to large sized EDC bag.

nitecore-review-flashlight-10 — Nitecore Review: The EA21 has a multi-position metal clip for several different carrying options.

My Thoughts on the Nitecore EA21

The Nitecore EA21 is a great general purpose flashlight with some useful extra features for those who demand more than a basic light. The handy size, battery familiarity (who doesn’t have extra AAs?), and plentiful modes allow for excellent usability in lots of settings.

The extremely bright Turbo mode can certainly disorient would-be attackers, while the Ultra-low mode can be used without giving away your position in sensitive settings. As an addition to a BOB (in the locked-off setting, of course), on car trips, or as an at-home night security tool, the EA21 is great choice (CLICK HERE to see the EA21 on Amazon).

Nitecore-Flashlight-Review-EA21 — Click on the image to see the best price for the EA21 and user reviews on Amazon

NTP10 Nitecore Titanium Pen Review

This part of our Nitecore review isn’t for a flashlight; it’s for their Titanium tactical pen. In the world of tactical pens (see our guide on tactical pens HERE!), there’s a full range from simply obscene to obscenely cool. The Nitecore NTP10 definitely fits in the latter category. Here come the bullet points:

Built from CNC milled titanium, the body of this pen is indestructible.
Designed as a standard-sized pen at 4.25”, but a crazy light 18 grams.
Equipped with a Fisher Space Pen cartridge for smooth writing anywhere.
The cutout body makes for a superior positive grip during writing or defense use.
Extra strong replaceable tungsten tip for busting windows or bad guys.
Included storage/gift case to keep a low profile or impress friends.
Nitecore Review: The NTP10 has a lightweight yet indestructible titanium body.

Writes and Fights

In the month that I’ve been carrying around this titanium pen I’ve used it to write notes, sign forms, and punch massive dents in seasoned old pallet wood (no bad guys could be found to test the tungsten tip out).

nitecore-review-flashlight-2 — Nitecore Review: Testing the NTP10 on an unsuspecting pallet. Flat top design works well for applying force.

I’ve also received several compliments on it; the NTP10 looks really cool with its spiral cut styling and matte titanium finish. Besides looking good, those spiral cutouts provide excellent grip for the occasional smashing the pen is designed to endure.

nitecore-review-flashlight-6 — Nitecore Review: Spiral cut of the NTP10 Tactical Pen adds grip and style points.

In use, the NTP10 is smooth and functional. The Fisher Space Pen ink cartridge works every bit as well in your exciting cubicle as it does in the dull confines of outer space for which it was designed. The pen itself is quite comfortable in the hand whether in writing mode or held ready for battle.

nitecore-review-flashlight-5 — Nitecore Review: NTP10’s Fisher Space Pen cartridge is pressurized for smooth writing, even when upside down.

My Thoughts on the Nitecore NTP10

The NTP10 is as functional as it is cool. The only drawback I found during my evaluation was regarding its super sharp window-breaking carbide tip. It’s a dead giveaway to airport security screeners; getting onto a plane with this pen might be a difficult proposition. That same tip can also damage pants pockets or cloth bags if not properly secured.

nitecore-review-flashlight — Nitecore Review: NTP10 Tactical Pen has a sharp Tungsten tip for breaching and combat.

I’d suggest keeping it clipped into a jacket pocket or proper pen slot in a bag. Alternatively it can be stored in its included aluminum case; though that significantly reduces its readiness factor. Also, it’s a nice size (about the size of a standard Bic pen), but might be a bit small for those with very large hands or while wearing gloves.

In short, the NTP10 is a really cool, unique, and functional piece. If you’re looking for a unique daily carry item with multiple uses, this titanium tactical pen should be an intriguing option. For more information on the NTP10 you can CLICK HERE to check it out on Amazon.

Nitecore-Flashlight-Review-NTP10 — Click on the image to see the best price for the NTP10 and user reviews on Amazon

MT06 Nitecore Flashlight Review

I have been very pleased with the MT06 over the past month or so of carrying it. I’ve kept it in my every day carry bag, and it has shined in every test. First, here are some highlights:

Two simple no-hassle brightness settings: 165 lumens and 32 lumens.
Extremely light at just 1.58 oz. with AAA batteries.
The 5” x 0.5” size is perfect for clipping into a pocket or small EDC bag.
Powerful 92m max beam distance for those long shots.
Proprietary LED is resistant to impacts from waist-high drops onto pavement.
Water won’t be a concern due to an IPX-8 water submersible rating.
Nitecore Review: The MT06 is built tough from aerospace grade aluminum alloy.

Form & Function

One of the big advantages of the MT06 in my view is that it doesn’t have that suspicious tactical look to it. There’s no “skull smasher” crown and no crazy knurling. This light is designed to be carried anywhere with a low profile and simply meet a utilitarian need for a dependable quality light.

A bit thicker than an average pen, the size is just right for clipping into a pocket or EDC pouch. Its standard rear-mounted button makes for easy on/off toggling with one hand.

Everyday Use

The two light modes come in pretty handy. Navigating through a dark car lot at night I was thankful to have the 165 lumen high mode. Then when I had to search around for the keys that my sweaty hands had just dropped between the seat and the console, the low 32 lumen setting was bright enough without causing a blinding reflection.

nitecore-review-flashlight-8 — Nitecore Review: MT06 Flashlight delivers high quality light with a low profile for every day carry.

Like the EA21, if you leave this light on high mode for too long it will switch to the lower setting automatically to maximize battery life and minimize heat. High mode can be easily reactivated by clicking it back on.

My Thoughts on the Nitecore MT06

While it’s refreshing to have a good EDC light that doesn’t look like it belongs mounted on a SWAT weapon, Nitecore might also have done well to incorporate some form of EA21-style lock setting on the MT06. With the easy-to-tap rear button there’s a small chance of the light being turned on if it’s left to bounce around in a bag.

Otherwise, this little light is an awesome companion to the rest of your EDC gear. The MT06 packs convenience, performance, and easy utility into a modestly priced (see the best price for the MT06 HERE on Amazon) flashlight.

Nitecore-Flashlight-Review-MT06 — Click on the image to see the best price for the MT06 and user reviews on Amazon

Final Thoughts

Really, all three of the tools in our Nitecore review were useful and practical. The two lights are incredibly efficient; just a few years ago flashlights like these would have cost a fortune.

All three items seem to be of very high quality. I had no problems with them, and can’t see them failing or falling apart in hard use. Each tool had its job to do, and each fit the bill. In spite of the minor drawbacks for each I can definitely see all three of these pieces serving me well for years to come. If you want more in formation about these 3 tools you can see them each on Amazon by clicking the links here:

Nitecore EA21	Nitecore NTP10	Nitecore MT06
<br />	<br />	<br />

nitecore-review-flashlight-3 — All 3 of the Nitecore reviewed products are compact and durable.

About Nitecore

Nitecore has been around since 2004 and is a well-respected brand in EDC and preparedness circles. A member of Portable Lights American Trade Organization (PLATO), each of Nitecore’s offerings are independently tested and rated (For the unaware, PLATO is the organization responsible for the handy lumen/runtime/beam properties charts on the packaging of all those fancy flashlights you’re always playing with at REI.). Since their introduction, Nitecore lights have gained favor with outdoor enthusiasts, members of the military, and others looking for high quality handheld lighting solutions.

Your Thoughts?

Have you used the EA21, NTP10, or MT06? Do you have another Nitecore flashlight that you like? Want to see another Nitecore flashlight review? Let us know in the Comments Section below, thanks!

Survival Weapons: How to Make, Purchase, or Scavenge Your Self-Defense When SHTF

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The best self-defense is to avoid encounters however when that’s not possible, you don’t want to be caught without a weapon.

Having the means to defend yourself and your family is essential for survival.

This article covers the various survival weapons you can use for self-defense in a disaster scenario, including those you can:

Survival Weapons You Can Buy
Survival Weapons You Can Make
Survival Weapons You Can Scavenge

Why Should I Think About Survival Weapons?

Sometimes all it takes is showing your opponent you are armed to deter them from attacking, but in case you are forced into combat you’ll want to be armed with a weapon you’re comfortable with and skilled at using.

survival weapons

When considering the options below, choose those that are best suited to your particular situation and that you will have time to practice with to develop your skill level.

Survival Weapons You Can Buy

There are plenty of suitable and highly effective survival weapons that can be purchased. Not only will this save you the hassle of fabricating your own, but also you’ll have the time necessary to practice and become proficient with its use. Our top choices for store-bought survival weapons are slingshots, tomahawks, knives, billy clubs, and firearms.

Knives

Although knives are among the most basic of survival weapons, they require a great deal of skill to wield effectively. Few people have the time to invest in becoming proficient with using a knife, and therefore it serves better as a backup weapon than as a primary. Our fixed blade knife of choice is the Ka-Bar Becker 22.

For a more compact option, opt for a folding knife with that has an open-assist feature, providing quick, one-handed operation and carries a high intimidation factor such as the Kershaw Tanto.

For more info, read our guide guide to choosing the best fixed blade knife.

Slingshots

Slingshots are a great choice for a survival weapon as they are inexpensive and ammo can easily be scavenged. We recommend The Scout Hunting Slingshot as the best all-around slingshot which can also be an effective hunting tool. For more details, read our guide to choosing the best slingshot for survival.

Tomahawks

The benefit of a tomahawk is that it functions as both a tool and a weapon, giving you a two-for-one option that will help keep your packing to a minimum. Besides its obvious use as a bludgeoning weapon, a tomahawk can prove quite useful in scavenging as it can help to open containers and other places where food might be kept. It also functions well as a search and rescue tool. The CRKT Kangee Tomahawk is our tomahawk of choice. Check out our guide to choosing the best tomahawk.

Pepper Sprays and Stun Devices

Pepper spray or a stun device are very effective weapons that can stop an attacker in their tracks. These options are especially useful for those that don’t have the brute force to use other types of weapons effectively since they can used from a distance and don’t require a substantial amount of strength to inflict damage.

Pepper Spray – Compact and easy to carry. Can be used from several feet away.
Bear spray – Similar to pepper spray but designed for long-range (30-foot range) use.
Stun Gun – A handheld device that delivers a powerful electric shock when touching an assailant. A good quality stun gun will drop large attackers without a problem.

Handheld Tactical Weapons

These weapons are very effective in the hands of someone with adequate strength, agility, and skill.

Kubaton – A discreet weapon that stores easily on a keychain, a kubaton adds spikes to your punch and aimed at an attacker’s eyes, can cause serious damage.
Tactical Pen – It’s a dual function pen that is built to also be used as a weapon. Discreet yet effective.

Firearms

Firearms, America’s weapon of choice – and for good reason!

In most states, firearms are relatively easy to purchase legally and are extremely effective at both intimidating and harming would-be attackers.

Firearms are also desirable if you or members of your bug out crew don’t have the strength to wield a brute-force weapon – it is skill, not size, that counts with firearms.

However, just like any other survival weapon, a firearm requires practice to gain accuracy (especially under tense situations when adrenaline is pumping) and ammo must be hoarded or scavenged. Firearms also require periodic maintenance to ensure they stay in working order.

survival weapons

Survival Weapons You Can Make

There are myriad items at your disposal that can instantly become a weapon if need be – most of which are easy to make and relatively inexpensive. Recent civil uprisings in the Ukraine provide a great case study in how deadly homemade weapons can truly be.

To see how sticks, bats and sledgehammers were able to topple a Presidency, take a look through these pictures at Wired.

The three types of DIY weapons we’ll be discussing in this article are:

Bludgeoning weapons
Edged Weapons
Projectile Weapons

Each can be deadly in their own right, so make sure to choose the type of weapon that you feel most comfortable with.

Bludgeoning Survival Weapons

To effectively wield a bludgeoning weapon, you must be in close contact with your attacker and have a significant amount of upper body strength – delivering a disabling blow requires a tremendous amount of force. If this sounds like the type of weapon you’d do well with, we recommend using a club, war hammer, tomahawk, or flail.

Club

While a club is one of the easiest survival weapons to make, it is no less deadly than any other and can inflict serious injury on an attacker. You can create an effective club by modifying a baseball bat, garden tool handle, or any length of wood, metal or piping. You can increase the destructive power of your blows by adding nails or metal scraps to the end of the club or by building a weighted club with a stone embedded in the end. For ideas on how to build an effective club, check out some examples at The JB Bardot Archives.

War Hammer

A war hammer can be easily assembled using inexpensive plumbing materials and works well for breaching doors and cars, as well as for combat. To create a war hammer, use a length of pipe with a t-splitter on the end and fit it with reducer couplings and plugs – no welding required. For a detailed explanation, see this YouTube video on assembling your own war hammer.

Tomahawk

A tomahawk can be used both for chopping and throwing. You can easily make one by splitting a piece of wood and inserting either a rock or piece of metal and tying it together with leather cord or braided plant fibers. You can make your tomahawk even more deadly by sharpening the end of the handle so that it can double as a spear or pry tool. For a more advanced tomahawk, see this YouTube video which explains how to make a tomahawk from lawnmower blades (this requires welding).

Flail

A flail is easily crafted by fastening a chain with a spiked ball to the end of a stick or bar. You can also make a dive flail, which has a spiked ball at both ends.

Edged Survival Weapons

There are a multitude of materials that can be used to craft an effective – and deadly – blade, including bone, stone, glass and scrap metal. Blades are an efficient tool for slicing or puncturing your attacker but are notoriously difficult to master. Before relying on a blade in a life-or-death situation, make sure you try it out and can effectively wield it in the heat of the moment.

The most common type of blade is a fixed-blade knife, which can be made with materials from around your home such as saw blades. M40 has a whole article on fabricating a homemade fixed-blade knife for under $1, which you can read here. If you need to arm yourself on the fly, Hedgehog Leatherworks has a great video on choosing the best stones to craft into tools, or survival weapons as the case may be.

Another viable option is to create a spear or ‘rabbit stick’ by sharpening a shaft that is at least five feet long and attaching a sharp point to the end made from either metal, stone or glass.

Projectile Survival Weapons

With projectiles, you can inflict damage while keeping a distance between you and your attacker, making them the ideal weapon when stealth is your objective. However, to cause serious damage you must be highly accurate, which requires a fair amount of practice. The following are some of our favorite projectile survival weapons:

Crossbow and arrows (learn to make an arrowhead out of a spoon in this video)
Longbow – These can be made from PVC pipe or wood from your local hardware store, as you can see here.
Bamboo sling bow – start with a hollow piece of bamboo or PVC tubing long enough to grip with one hand and add two half-inch eyelet screws to hold several strong rubber bands in place; arrows can be fashioned from sharpened sticks with no feathers necessary
Bola – an easy-to-make weapon, a bola is thrown at your enemy and will immobilize them by wrapping itself around them
Sling – inexpensive and easy to make, you can construct a sling from common household items such as the tongue of an old boot. To build a sling, simply attach a strip of leather to two lengths of string or twine; this will allow you to launch small stones about the size of golf balls and can be mastered rather quickly.
Throwing stars and spikes

Want even more info on projectile survival weapons? CLICK HERE NOW to check out our in depth article!

Click on the image above to learn all about the BEST ranged survival weapons right now!

Survival Weapons You Can Scavenge

If disaster strikes and you don’t have survival weapons with you, there are weapons that can be scavenged after the fact. If you find yourself scavenging in a hostile situation, be sure to thoroughly scout the area beforehand and have a group of people with you that can provide enough hands to carry back what you need.

In an urban survival situation, the following can be useful sources of weapons and ammo:

Automotive repair garages and gas stations
Cars and bicycles
Office buildings, schools, apartment complexes – generally, anywhere with a maintenance department
Abandoned homes
Construction sites

You will typically be scavenging for survival weapons, ammo or both. The following sections discuss what items can be scavenged to serve as survival weapons or ammo.

Survival Weapon Scavenging Tips

When scavenging for survival weapons, try and locate the following:

Anything you can use as a club, e.g. street sign posts, rebar, PVC pipe, log
Tools, e.g. ice picks, sledgehammers, crowbars
Defensive armor, e.g. street signs, car door panels, hubcaps, sports equipment
Lashings, e.g. inner bark of trees braided for strength, sinew, rawhide
Other useful items such as chains, bicycle gears (can be fastened to the end of a stick), and free weights (can be used to construct a flail)

Scavenging Ammo

When scavenging for ammo, try and locate the following:

Bolts or rocks to be used with a slingshot
Arrows for bows/crossbows – glass and scrap metal make excellent arrow points when there is no time to chip stone
Ammo for firearms – use caution with found bullets as they may be loaded with enhanced explosives
Rocks, bricks, and chunks of sidewalks or buildings that can be used for throwing or for a slingshot

Wrapping Up

Investing the time and effort to either buy or make survival weapons that will best serve you is an essential part of the prepping process. Whichever weapon (or weapons) you choose, make sure you can practice with them and they are well-suited to your survival needs.

As an example, a longbow can serve as a great weapon for defending your home perimeter, but probably won’t be useful as part of your get-home-bag. As important as arming yourself is developing the skills to properly wield your weapon in combat, so always take time to practice.

In addition to practicing with your primary survival weapon, make time to develop your abilities in scavenging for ammo and weapons. There may come a time where your primary survival weapon become unavailable and the ability to build weapons from scratch will be a desired one indeed.

It is also worth considering learning and practicing some form of unarmed self-defense.

Your Thoughts?

Do you have a survival weapon that you plan on using? Do you have an idea for one that would be easy to make or scavenge? Let us know in the Comments Section below, thanks!

Get Home Bag List – How To Make The Best Kit For YOUR Needs

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Jackson maneuvered his way swiftly through the crowded sidewalk, running as fast as he could, his briefcase in one hand and his get home bag in the other – the two things he never left home without.

Realizing there was no way he could make his train at this point, he slowed his pace and fell in line with the window shoppers and couples out for a stroll. He was five minutes from the station and the next train wouldn’t be arriving for forty-five minutes, he might as well enjoy the walk.

Suddenly, he realized that the entire street was moving against him, and swiftly. The road looked like a parking lot and people were rapidly abandoning their vehicles to flee on foot. For the first time, he noticed the thick stench of smoke in the air – not from cigarettes, but from something burning.

Instinctively he reached out and grabbed a young man running past him.

“What the hell is going on here?”

“You don’t know?” The young man replied incredulously. “There was an explosion. The whole damn train station is up in smoke!”

The young man wriggled free of Jackson’s grasp and took off running. But Jackson didn’t follow him. He didn’t need to blindly follow the panicked crowd that was descending quickly into pandemonium and chaos. He had been planning for just such an event and he knew exactly how to get home – that’s why he always carried his get home bag.

What Is A Get Home Bag?

Jackson and his wife Rachel are serious survivalists. They have a basement packed with enough food and water to last six months, each has their own bug-out-bag, and even their eleven-year-old son Derek knows what to do in an emergency. However, neither of them had considered packing a get home bag until a random car accident left Rachel and Derek stranded on a deserted road for several hours with no supplies and no way home.

To be fully prepared in any emergency, there are three types of bags you should have ready – an every day carry kit, a get home bag, and a bug-out-bag:

The every day carry kit contains items you would use with relative frequency, sometimes on a daily basis. Your every day carry kit helps solve frequent problems that come up in everyday life, as well as likely emergency situations.
A get home bag has the sole purpose of getting you home as quickly and as safely as possible in the event your normal commute is compromised (this can be due to anything from large scale emergencies such as natural disasters or civil unrest to minor inconveniences such as road closures or a vehicle breakdown). It typically contains specific items needed for 24-48 hours of survival and is compact enough to carry with you at all times.
A bug-out-bag equips you for survival in the event you will need to survive for several days or more. It is compact enough to carry, but not kept on your person at all times. Bug-out-bags are usually stored in an easy to reach yet concealed area of your house.

Building Your Get Home Bag List

The contents of your get home bag will vary greatly depending on where you live and the type of emergencies you need to be prepared for. You’ll also need to thoroughly examine your commute and improvise ways of getting home should your car or other types of transit be unavailable. If possible, use a map to get a bird’s eye view and consider the following when making your plan:

Will you be traveling through wilderness, suburbs, or major cities
Are there any major waterways you will need to cross or devise routes around
How many hours will it take you to walk to your house (on rugged terrain, the average fit adult can walk approximately 10-18 miles per day)

For Jackson, who works at a bank in a major city about 25 miles from his home, comfortable clothes and footwear were a must for his get home bag. He also made sure to pack inhalation and eye protection, as these can help in the event of urban emergencies such as explosions or pandemics.

Organizing Your Get Home Bag Contents

Typically, you’ll want to organize your get home bag essentials into three compartments, or levels. Each level contains the items needed to survive for a certain amount of time, with those needed right away on top on those needed for longer-term survival on the bottom. Generally, a get home bag is organized as follows:

Level 1 Items (up to 3 hours from home by foot)

Your first and most accessible level should include items such as:

Item Type	Why You Need It
Folding knife	A folding knife is one of the most basic and versatile tools you can have. The CRKT M16 is lightweight, reliable and its 3" blade is legal to carry in most jurisdictions.
Bandana and / or dust mask	N95 dust mask stays in place while protecting from inhalation of harmful vapors and particles.
Boots	Boots should be waterproof, lightweight, durable, and suited for long treks over variable terrain. The Salomon Men's Quest 4D GTX Backpacking Boot also features a locking lace system for a precise fit that holds even if the laces come untied.
Map & Compass	Built to U.S. military standards, this compass is durable and water proof, with a tritium illuminated display.
Duct tape	Repair clothing or shelter, bandage injuries, prevent blisters. Roll can be flattened to save space.
Emergency signal item (mirror, flare, etc.)	Retro-reflective single-handed aimer for accurate long-distance signaling.
Fire kit / lighter	Always carry more than one means of starting a fire. A durable wind- and waterproof lighter is a compact option.
First aid kit	Basic bandages and medications for minor injuries.
Flashlight or headlamp	A hands-free option. This one features dimmer, strobe signaling, and hinge locks for stand alone use.
Multitool	Cutting wood, slicing rope, building shelter, and self defense, and many other uses.
Paracord	Assists with shelter building, first aid, climbing/descending, securing items to outside of bag, and hanging supplies out of reach of wildlife.
Protein bars	Satisfying and portable. Provides sustained energy and vital nutrients.
Rain poncho	Protection from weather and can be used as shelter.
Safety rated sunglasses	Shatterproof UV protection keeps out sun and debris.
Stainless steel water bottle	Sturdy, can be fastened to belt or bag. Non-insulated stainless bottles can be used to boil water over a fire.
Bug Spray	Biting insects can be detrimental to health and morale. Bug repellant in stick form are portable and easy to apply on the move.
Tactical pen	Integrated survival whistle, glass breaker, and magnesium fire starter.
Waterproof Notepad	Useful for jotting down coordinates, mapping landmarks, or leaving a note on the windshield of an abandonned vehicle.
Work gloves	Provides essential protection. Should be adjusted seasonally in cold climates.
Sunblock	Prolonged exposure to sun can cause many problems. Protect yourself with some sunscreen, this ine is in stick form for easy carry and application.
Self Defense Item	Carry something you are comfortable with. Pepper spray is a good option for people who do not want to carry a firearm and/or have a smaller frame.
Hat	Keep the sun out of your eyes and off your head to reduce fatigue.
Cash	I suggest carrying $500 cash in small denominations as emergency money. You never know when you may need to pay your way around an obstacle.
Change of clothes	These should be rotated seasonally. Dry clothes will keep you warm and enable you to travel further in an unfavorable climate.

Level 2 Items (up to 12 hours from home on foot)

The middle level of your pack should include items you’ll need if you’re more than a few hours from home, such as:

Item Type	Why You Need It
Emergency radio	National weather and alerts to stay informed and aid in strategic planning. Also provides emergency power for handheld devices.
Hygiene kit	Beneficial to morale and personal comfort, as well as overall health.
Water filter / purification tablets	Eliminate risk of contracting parasites or viruses when accessing local water supplies.
Extra socks	Prevent blisters/sores and keep feet dry and comfortable with a fresh change of socks. If you expect to have to walk for long distances it is worth investing in a pair or 2 of hiking socks.
Spare Batteries	These are good for barter, in addition to keeping your gadgets powered.
Extra Layer Of Clothes to Keep warm and/or dry	Layering is an essential skill for maintaining an optimal core temperature when hiking in any climate.

Level 3 Items (up to 48 hours from home on foot)

The third level should contain items needed for being on foot for more than a day, including:

Item Type	Why You Need It
Fixed blade knife	Heavy duty for handling hard use, full tang with glass breaker in pommel, flat ground drop point edge for easy maintenance.
Emergency blanket / sleeping bag or Bivvy Sack	Overnight protection from cold temperatures, ultralight yet durable material, reflects 90% of body heat.
Advanced first aid kit	Wide assortment of gauze and bandages as well as a trauma pad, moleskin, cold pack, and basic instruments to handle any personal injury.
Collapsible Walking sticks (to help ease strain from knees)	Ease strain on knees for extended travel on foot. Folds to 12" and adjusts from 48" to 53" for comfort.
Additional protein / energy bars	Maintain energy with a variety of nutrition-rich bars.
Glowsticks (this will help avoid using up flashlight batteries while making camp)	Provides 12 hours of light without draining flashlight batteries, can be fastened to shelter or used to mark trail to avoid walking in circles.

What Type of Bag is Best for a Get Home Bag?

There are several types of packs you can use for your get home bag, each with their own benefits and drawbacks. Ultimately, the bag you select should be best suited for you and your particular situation.

The following are different bags that can be used as well as their advantages and drawbacks:

Backpack: A backpack is great for hands-free carrying and making space for additional items, it also makes running and climbing fairly easy. However, it is not particularly easy to access contents when on the move and is not as discreet as other options. For more info on picking a backpack, check out our guide here.
Messenger Bag: A messenger bag is a great choice for easy access while on the move, has many pockets, and doesn’t look like a survival kit (discreet). However, it is harder to run with and becomes uncomfortable over long distances, as weight isn’t distributed evenly. It is also difficult to attach outside items (such as extra clothing).
Hydration Pack: A small, minimalist backpack, a hydration pack holds water and is excellent for walking long distances, as the shoulder and waist straps provide an even weight distribution. However, there is limited storage space.
Lumbar Pack: A lumbar pack is compact and easily accessible with external straps for carrying extra clothing. However, all the weight is on your hips and there is no extra room for additional items you may have with you.

If you’re looking for a reliable bag, the following are the ones we suggest looking at:

Bag	Bag Type	Cost	Features
5.11 Rush 24 Back Pack	Backpack	$$$$	Extremely high quality construction and well thought out pocket design make this a flexible and practical bag for real-world use. Molle integration along with hydration bladder compatibility mean easy customization to suit your exact needs.
Maxpedition Falcon II	Backpack	$$$	Tough ballistic nylon construction protects gear and stands up to any conditions. Compact size keeps shape even when full making it easy to stash at work. Removable waist and chest straps distribute weight evenly.
Explorer Tactical Assault Pack	Backpack	$	Sturdy option at an economical price. Plenty of MOLLE attachment points and straps to carry extra gear. Multiple compartments ideal for easily accessing Level 1 items. Padded straps provide comfort for prolonged wear.
ALPS OutdoorZ Little Bear Hunting Lumbar Pack	Lumbar Pack	$	Compact with mulitple compartments. Removable straps offer improved weight distribution.
Mountainsmith Lumbar Backpack	Lumbar Pack	$$	Reinforced with high tenacity nylon wide. 14L capacity and extra mesh pockets on the waistband provide sufficient storage space for its compact profile. Shoulder strap pad for messenger carry or separately purchase Mountainsmith Strapettes for additional carrying options.
High Sierra Diplomat Lumbar Pack	Lumbar Pack	$	HEX_VENT mesh padded back panel wicks moisture. Multiple compartments and 2 external water bottle holders (BPA-free bottles included). Webbing and tuck-away mesh pouch for loading additional gear.
Rapid Dominance Classic Military Messenger Bag	Messenger Bag	$	Cotton canvas with polyester lining. Large 16L capacity and 2 inch wide comfort strap to handle larger loads. Subtle appearance conceals its purpose.
UTG Urban Messenger Bag	Messenger Bag	$	No top flap enables all compartments to be readily accessible while on the move. Specialized slots for holding tools. Detachable pistol holster with belt loop. Discreet for daily carry.
Maxpedition Last Resort Tactical Attache	Messenger Bag	$$$	Heavy duty water resistant nylon exterior. Removable divider lends to customizing main compartment. Multiple hook and loop pockets for smaller gear.
Camelbak HAWG 100 oz Hydration Pack	Hydration Pack	$$$	Sufficient gear storage capacity plus 3L hydration bladder. High density nylon harness with EVA foam shoulder padding. MOLLE attachments on front panel for additional gear.
CamelBak M.U.L.E. 100 oz Hydration Pack	Hydration Pack	$$$	Separated compartments for Level organization. Compact size easy to manuever thrrough crowds. Multiple hydration tubing exit points. fleece-lined pouch ideal for safely storing eyewear.
Osprey Men's Manta 36 Hydration Pack	Hydration Pack	$$$	Weather protected with integrated raincover. Over 30L capacity rivals a backpack and hipbelt provides support for heavier loads. Airspeed suspension and BioStretch harness team up for a comfortable and ventilated fit.

Storing Your Get Home Bag

The essence of a get home bag is to get you home when disaster strikes, which is why it’s imperative to keep your bag with you as much as possible. Jackson carried his get home bag to and from work with him and kept it in his office. When an unexpected explosion suddenly left him without a way home, he was ready.

Leaving your bag in the car while you are at work is unwise, especially if you park in a parking garage. In a disaster scenario, you cannot be guaranteed access to your vehicle and you need your survival supplies on hand. If you can’t keep your get home bag with you while you’re working, consider using a gym locker, P.O. box, or public locker to store it. Just ensure that wherever you pick is a location you can reach immediately should disaster strike.

But….

The exception here is if you happen to have a job where you are driving around the majority of the time to see clients for example or visit job sites. In this case, you car is obviously a smart place to keep your get home bag essentials as you will be more likely to be near it than your office when an emergency occurs.

get home bag essentials — Make sure you get your GHB right. Don’t rely on cheap, premade junk kits.

Avoiding Common Mistakes For Get Home Bag Contents

Size: Always remember – a get home bag is not the same as a bug-out-bag; they do not serve the same purpose. If the size of your get home bag rivals your bug-out-bag, you’ve over-packed. Only include those items absolutely necessary to get you home quickly. To save space and better organize your bag, you can group like items in Ziploc bags and vacuum seal clothing. By packing your bag using the three-level method described in this article, you can ensure the items you’ll need right away are easily accessible. If you’re going to include a pair of boots, these can be carried alongside your get home bag rather than inside to save space.

Supplies: Similar to your bug out bag, perform seasonal reviews on your get home bag contents to ensure you have essential items and are not carrying around extra weight. For instance, don’t get caught without sunscreen in the summer or warm layers in the winter.

Location: Make sure you store your get home bag where it can be accessed quickly, keeping it near your person when at all possible.

Anticipating Threats / Scenarios: It is crucial that you plan ahead and know your surroundings and what type of terrain conditions you will be facing. An urban get home bag for example will have different essential contents that a rural one. No matter how far the distance is you need to travel, never assume you can make it before nightfall and pack accordingly.

Conclusion

As you well know, disaster can strike at any place, any time. Amid the chaos of an unexpected event, preppers like Jackson can remain calm and use their carefully packed get home bags to ensure they reach their families as quickly and safely as possible. No matter how fool-proof your bug out plan is, you can’t execute if you can’t get home – that’s why having a get home bag accessible at all times is essential.

Your Thoughts?

Do you have an item that you think it ESSENTIAL for any get home bag? Do you keep your get home kit in a bag or backpack that you want to recommend? Let us know in the Comments Section below, thanks!

Prepper Gift Guide – Get That Special Prepper In Your Life What They REALLY Want

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Thanksgiving has arrived and I hope you had a great one filled with family, good times, and football. After the big meal, while everyone is still in a daze, is when the adults in my family usually do our Secret Santa drawing. It got me thinking that the holidays are fast approaching!

I am fortunate enough to have most everything that I need and I generally ask that a donation be made in my name. However, there are some cool, useful things out there that would be good to have that maybe I just haven’t been able to convince myself to splurge on yet.

Maybe Santa (or his helper, Secret Santa) is listening, so I thought I would compile this list of awesome survival gear that would fill a stocking, or bug out bag (you do hang your BOBs on the mantle…right? If you do, send me a picture!). Feel free to forward this along to whoever is doing your holiday shopping as a nudge in the right direction!

Gift Idea	What Is It?	Why It Is Awesome	Cost
5.11 Rush 72 Back Pack	High Quality Backpack	5.11 makes some of the best backpacks on the market and the Rush 72 is an excellent example of the toughness and versatility of their gear. The Rush 72 is MOLLE and Hydration Bladder compatible and provides easy organization options with its 2 main compartments and 2 secondary pockets. This bag is coated with a proprietary water repellent material to keep your equipment dry when you need it.	$$$
Fenix PD35 Tactical Flashlight	Ultra-bright LED Flashlight	The PD35 can pump out a booming 850 lumens, more than enough for any practical purpose short of doing shadow puppets on the moon. We had picked it as our Best Overall EDC Flashlight in our EDC Flashlight guide (See it here) due to this as well as its good value (less than $80), light weight, 6 operation modes, and versatile battery options. A solid addition to any EDC kit nightstand, glove compartment, or get home bag.	$$
CRKT Kangee	Survival Tomahawk	We picked the CRKT Kangee as our Best Overall Tomahawk in our Survival Tomahawk Guide (Read Here) and we still ove it! The Kangee sports a full tang construction, fantastic balance in the hand, multiple grip positions, and a sharpened beard and spine on the axe head for maximum versatility. It is an excellent tool for camp or your BOB.	$$
Sawyer Mini Water Filtration System	Compact Water Filter	The Sawyer is the quite compeitor to the more popular LifeStraw. It is favored by many preppers because it can filter up to 100,000 Gallons of water (vs the LifeStraw's 250) and can be integrated into a hydration bladder (Camelbak, etc). Even with these superior qualities the Sawyer weighs the same as the LifeStraw but is less expensive. An awesome water filter for a BOB, EDC, Get Home, or Bug In Kit!	$
KA-BAR BK 22	Fixed Blade Knife	The BK 22 is a fantastic all -around knife. It performs equally well whether you are batoning chopping, slicing, carving, or cleaning game. The BK 22 has a full tang design and nearly indestructible Grivory grips for superior reliability. We chose the BK 22 as our Best Overall Knife in our Fixed Blade Knife Guide (Read Here) due to its versatility, durability, and quality of construction.	$$
Rescue Essentials Medical Pack Insert	Emergency First Aid Kit	This is a fully stocked first aid kit aimed at general and trauma related injuries that are likely to occur in a survival situation. It is great solution for a bug out bag, vehicle kit, get home bag, or home first aid kit. It includes a chest seal, combat tourniquet, Israeli bandages, medic shears, burn dressing, and much, much more.	$$$
Emerson Commander Folding Knife	Folding Knife	Emerson Knives are not the cheapest but this very well could be the LAST knife you ever need to buy. It is the kind of tool you would expect to pass on to the next generation after it has served you well. The Commander is made with a quality-first approach and sports the unique "Emerson Wave" feature that makes you able to flip it open faster than any other knife I have seen - including spring-assisted competitors.	$$$
Maxpedition Fatboy Versipack	Every Day Carry Bag	This is a tactical-style hip bag for a medium-sized every day carry kit. The Fatboy has smart organization options in its multiple zippered pouches and ample room for a tablet, camera, or other tools in its roomy main compartment. This is the top of the line for this style bag and will last you for years to come.	$$
The Knowledge: How To Rebuild Our World From Scratch	The Ultimate Prepper Book	We recently reviewed The Knowledge and found that it was an amazing resource for preparedness minded people. It takes a look at the skills and technologies we would need to re-learn, re-discover, and master to start rebuilding our society after a total collapse. It provides both detailed instructions for the most important of these and historical examples of where this knowledge has been used to advance humanity to our current levels. A must have for any prepper's library.	$
OuttaGear 4.0 Emergency Kit Bag	Comprehensive Pre Made Bug Out Bag	This is a high-quality "done for you" bug out bag option. It is a good choice if you have someone you care about that you want to quickly get prepared or if you just don't have time to build a well made BOB for yourself. If it is out of your budget you can also look at the TUUSK bag ( Here)that I personally designed, which is focused on urban survival but can easily be tailored to any situation.	$$$$