This article will show you how to use a whetstone step by step. It will some practice but anyone can learn.
Keeping your knives sharp is essential for any camper, hunter, chef or home cook. One of the best ways to maintain knife sharpness is by using a whetstone. A whetstone can be used to sharpen almost any blade, including pocket knives and scissors. Here’s a guide on how to use a whetstone correctly and safely.

Choose the Correct Grit for Your Needs

Whetstones come in different grits, which refers to the coarseness of the stone’s surface. They range from extra-coarse stones that are used for repairs to very fine stones that are used for polishing. The majority of knives should be sharpened with medium or fine grits, typically ranging from 400–1000 grit, depending on how dull the blade is. If your knife is extremely dull you can start with an extra-coarse stone then move onto a finer one after.

What is Grit?

A grainy stone used to sharpen knives is called a whetstone. There are various kinds of whetstone grits, and each one has a unique function. The individual grains or flakes that make up a whetstone’s grit vary in size. A finer stone is indicated by a higher grit number, whilst a coarser stone is indicated by a lower one.

For the greatest results, selecting the right whetstone grit is crucial. In general, you should finish your blade with a finer grit whetstone and sharpen it with a coarser grit whetstone.

Grit 200/400

The big grains enable you to pre-sharpen your blade and restore an edge on rough scratches. A blade with a little edge chip or other minor damage can be fixed. The amount of material removed by this type of stone will make up for it. It is necessary to keep honing with a finer stone, like grain 1000. The cutting edge will remain quite “rough” whether you stop on a 200 or 400 stone.

Grit 600-800

Roughly in the middle between 200–400 and 1000. Numerous flaws can be fixed using the 600 stone without removing a lot of material.

Grit 1000

The best stone available. Sharpening is completed and a very nice edge is obtained with just the right amount of abrasiveness to restore blunt blades. For low-end steels, do not exceed 1000; it is worthless.

Grit 2000-4000

For the majority of steels, both European and Japanese, finishing stone is quite useful. It enables you to have an even finer and softer cut as well as to polish the cutting edge well.

Grit 5000+

They are saved for steels that will benefit from them. As a result, really hard steels will have an edge that is razor sharp and will last for a while. It is futile to use such a stone on 58 HRC steel since the steel is too soft to maintain such a thin edge. After just a few cuts, the edge will revert to normal.

Soak Your Stone

Before you begin, soak your whetstone in water for at least 20 minutes. This will prevent cracking when you use it. Make sure you place something underneath it so that it doesn’t crack because of pressure applied to its edges when submerged in water. After soaking, remove any excess water with a towel before beginning the process of sharpening your knife.

Angle Matters!

When sharpening your knife with a whetstone, make sure you keep the angle correct and consistent throughout the entire process. This will ensure that your blade gets evenly sharpened across its length and width. The typical angle for most kitchen knives is between 10–20 degrees. But this can vary depending on the type of blade you have and its size as well as how dull it has become over time. Keep in mind that if you choose too shallow an angle. It will take more time to sharpen your knife and if you choose too steep an angle, there’s a risk of damaging your blade beyond repair!

Sharpening Technique

Once you have selected the correct angle for sharpening your blade. Hold both sides of your whetstone firmly against either side of your blade and move them back and forth> Move in equal strokes until they meet at their center point (this should take about 8–10 strokes). Make sure that each stroke covers about ¼ inch (6mm) on each side of the blade. This will ensure that both sides get equally honed as well as prevent overheating due to excessive friction. This could damage or warp your blade permanently! After every few strokes check if there are burrs along either side. These indicate sharpness has been achieved and it’s time to switch sides! Continue stroking until burrs form along both sides then switch angles if needed. Finish off with some light stroking along all edges followed by polishing off any remaining burrs with some extra fine cloth or paper towel!

Final Thoughts

With some practical experience and practise you should now know to how to sue a whetstone.
Sharpening blades using a whetstone requires patience and practice. Mastering this skill will guarantee perfectly honed blades every single time! Don’t forget: select the right grit before starting out. Keep an even angle throughout; stroke evenly across both sides; check for burrs frequently. Switch angles/grits when needed; polish off any remaining burrs afterwards! With these tips in hand, anyone can become an expert at honing their blades like a pro – happy sharpening!

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Are you an outdoor enthusiast looking for a bushcraft pack list to bring with you on your next expedition? If so, then look no further! Bushcraft is all about ensuring you have the right tools for navigating any terrain.

But knowing which items should make it onto your bushcraft pack list can be overwhelming. That’s why I’m here to give you a handy guide with nine essential must-haves that are sure to simplify your packing process and keep you at the top of your game! From survival knives and ropes to portables stoves and compasses—these bushcraft essentials will help take any prepper or backpacker’s expeditions from good to great.

Here are 9 essential bushcraft items

Saw

Bushcraft is a form of wilderness survival that requires its practitioners to rely on their skill and resourcefulness in order to survive while out in the wild. Of all the tools at your disposal, carrying a saw can prove invaluable when bushcrafting. Having an effective and reliable saw on hand allows bushcrafters to craft essential items such as shelter, firewood, traps, fishing lines, cooking vessels, furniture and even clothes! Not only will having a saw increase your chances of surviving in the wild but it will also make your time there much more comfortable. In this blog post we’ll discuss why every backpacker should consider carrying a saw with them when they venture into Nature’s realm!

Fishing line and hook

When heading into the wilderness for a bushcraft adventure, effective preparation is key. But, what many people don’t realize is that one of the most important pieces of equipment to bring along on a trip isn’t even an item, but rather an old-fashioned skill: fishing! Carrying a fishing line and some bait in your backpack can be instrumental in ensuring that you have enough food reserves throughout your sojourn into nature. Not only can angling supplement your need for sustenance, but it can also provide entertainment and relaxation during your downtime. In this blog post we’re going to explore why carrying around a fishing line is essential when prepping or backpacking in the wilds.

Knife

having a knife can mean the difference between success and failure. A good knife provides various advantages when venturing off into the unknown such as providing protection from wild animals, being able to cut wood for fire and shelter or preparing food with ease. With that said, packing for camping and bushcraft trips require more than just clothing; tools are essential too. This blog post will focus on why carrying a knife is an important piece of gear to pack when embarking on outdoor excursions and how they’ll give you an edge against whatever mother nature throws your way.

Tarp and Rope

Bushcrafting is all about being prepared for any situation and ready to navigate your way through the outdoors. Nothing helps you be more prepared than carrying a tarp and rope in your backpack, as these items can come in handy for many situations. Whether it’s shelter from the rain or sun, supplies for firemaking activities, or repairing gear on the go – having these essentials with you can make bushcrafting trips much smoother. In this blog post we’ll outline why preppers and backpackers should consider packing a tarp and rope in their bag at all times!

First Aid Kit

aving a first aid kit in your backpack when you embark on a bushcraft journey is an essential part of responsible backcountry travel. With the right supplies and knowledge of how to use them properly, you’ll always be prepared if things take a turn for the worse while out exploring the great outdoors – after all, safety should always come first!

Wash Kit

There is no greater combination of freedom and adventure than going into the bushcraft backcountry with nothing but your trusty backpack. But as any seasoned prepper or backpacker will tell you, preparation is king. One item that often gets overlooked in the flurry of packing for a bushcraft trip are wash kits: personal care items to keep you clean and healthy on your journey into the wilds. At first it may seem like an unnecessary burden, yet having access to simple hygiene supplies can be worth its weight in gold! Items such as toothbrush, toothpaste, soap etc are key to safe outdoors.

Compass and map

Having a compass handy while out in the wilderness is essential for preppers, backpackers and other adventurers alike. Not only does it provide wayfinding capabilities, but also serves as an invaluable asset when conditions become unexpected. A small and simple-to-use backpacking compass can often mean the difference between getting lost without a solution – or finding your bearings to safety with ease.

Clothing

When it comes to bushcraft and being prepared for the outdoors, having the right clothing is essential. A good outdoor wardrobe not only provides protection from the elements, but it can also enhance your overall experience in nature. Whether you’re a hardcore prepper or a casual weekend backpacker, packing appropriate clothing for your excursions into unknown territory is an absolute must.

Fire making

Bushcraft is the practice of using natural elements for survival and crafting useful items for travel, so having fire-making tools in your backpack is a must. Taking simple but essential steps to ensure you are capable of creating heat and light in a variety of situations not only provides security but also ensures you stay fed. Having waterproof matches or flint and steel should be a must of bushcraft enthusiasts.

Final thoughts

The 9 essentials items listed in this blog post are a great starting point for bushcraft pack list essentials for enthusiasts looking to pack light. However, it’s important to remember that each person’s needs vary, so be sure to customize your backpack contents based on the specific activities you plan to do and the environment you will be working in.

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We delve into the 10 Best Portable Water Filters For Survival on the market. We have scoured far and wide and found these to be some of the best water filters.

In an emergency situation, clean water is essential for survival. While you can live without food for several days, you will only survive without water for a matter of hours. That’s why it’s important to have a portable water filter with you whenever you venture into the wilderness.

There are many different types of portable water filters on the market. This article will showcase the ones we think are the best for your survival and outdoors needs.

The water filter listed as the last one is our top choice and one we recommend.

MSR MiniWorks

The micro filter is the best-selling product in its category, and it’s got something special for outdoor adventures. The lightweight design means you can take your water on any adventure without worrying about carrying extra weight or bulk–and with one liter per minute output rate (enough to share!), this little guy will be there when needed most!

The MiniWorks will change your water into something that is pure and healthy, with no unpleasant tastes or odors. It’s so easy to use! Simply attach the clean side cover onto an outlet pipe connection in order for you not to have any cross contamination from previous uses of another type filters; then screw it securely shut before placing this little beauty inside its cage at home base camp – where all good adventures begin…

A great way (and maybe even THE best) idea would be by flushing out those pesky carbon particles present when new cartridges come aboard.

The filter is easy to use and will always provide clean water. The only thing you need for your first time using it, are some clear drinking sources! Make sure to have good quality water to avoid getting silty or cloudy because this can clog up the pores on its own which would require more maintenance from then user themselves in order preserve efficiency with their purchase

The mini works ex micro filter is specially designed to work with a pumping speed of 70-80 strokes per minute. When you’re done pumping, simply unscrew the air spring from inside your clean water container and seal it off before removing any leftover moisture by venting out through an outlet at bottom right corner (not shown). This will guarantee that there are no harmful chemicals mixed in!

Grayl Geopress Water Purifier

Having a tough time getting clean water on your next adventure? Why not try Geopress, the portable and efficient purifier designed for all-around use. This nifty invention takes up less space than most other units while providing top notch performance!

The GException backpack is more than just an ordinary water filter. It works on every continent, whether you’re hiking near Mount Kilimanjaro or salsa dancing in GUATEMALA! We’ve got your back with our patented design that provides complete protection against all pathogenic bacteria including viruses. Making sure what’s inside tastes great too, thanks to filtering out pollutants like chemicals heavy metals microplasma plus many others unwanted surprises found lurking within artisanal river waters.

The geocache topography is designed with a non-slip material on all heavy use services. The tactile sensations make it easy to find in wet conditions or when you’re wearing gloves, while the strategically placed Pure Clean Spout Cap allows for quick purification by pressing and twisting just one half turn before releasing pressure via an outward airflow that reaches every corner of your mouth during each gentle press! This means even children can easily embark upon their adventures without fear–they won’t need anyone else’s help because this product does everything.

Survivor Pro X Electric Water Filter

The survivor filter pro-x is a portable, electric water filtration system that allows you to get clean drinking water from any source. It’s the world’s first ever product of its kind – no manual labor required! All it takes are push button commands for this handy gadget and within seconds your cup will be brimming with delicious filtered drinking water. In our opinion is one of the best portable water filters of it’s kind.

The Pro-X is a lightweight, water resistant device that can provide clean drinking water for up to 5 people in an emergency situation. It uses no energy from your power source and its filtration system ensures you’re getting only the finest quality of river or sea sourced fluids into each sip!

We’ve incorporated the same proven technology used in our survivor filter probe. This three-stage system is unmatched by any portable water filtration device on today’s market, and it allows us to remove 99% of viruses AND bacteria while reducing heavy metals up past EPA standards – all without sacrificing taste or quality! We also designed these filters so they’re easy enough for anyone (even kids) can use them; simply fill ‘er up with dirty tap water until there are no more liters left before changing out your own set

MSR Autoflow Gravity Water Filter

The same proven technology used in our survivor filter probe has been incorporated to create a three-stage system that is unmatched by any portable water filtration devices on the market. This allows us, as well as you who may use this product for survival purposes or emergency preparedness operations (such things are stockpiling). Not only do we have access clean drinking water but also remove heavy metals like lead which can cause cognitive disorders; improve taste and odorlessness too! We’ve designed it, so easy cleanup will be done around 100 000 liters before replacement filters need set up again–with automatic installation.

Improved design means more space inside your pack for other things, like food and water. The filter works by letting gravity do all the work while you’re out doing whatever it is that people who go camping do. They just have a lot more time on their hands! You can also use these filters at home to make sure everything tastes good even when there’s no running stream nearby.

A new autoflow microfilter has been added which continues meeting high standards in terms of removal rate (1 liter per minute). This powerful little piece allows users both outdoorsy adventures or stays right here near our desktops where we always seem busy. Making it one of our 10 best portable water filters for survival.

The 4-liter autoflow system allows you to filter large quantities at once, making it perfect for groups. Our new 2 Liter water resistant design is sized perfectly as a backpacking duet with its lightweight and low profile design. This will ensure reliable effortless wilderness adventures into remote areas of the planet earth’s natural wonderland where fresh clean drinking H2O can be hard find!

Katadyn Hiker Pro Water Filter

The Katadyn hiker pro is an upgraded version of the popular water filter. It provides 30% more capacity and includes quick release fittings to attach it directly onto your backpack or hydration pack for easy access while hiking in remote areas without any sources nearby! The best part? You don’t have worry about cleaning this thing. Its filters provide safe drinking water by simply placing pre-filter before tap source then pumping out debris until only clean H2O remains at all comes back into pipes leading up from ground level.

The hiker pro is the best choice for an ultralight, backpacking water filter. It’s small enough to fit in any pack and makes a lot of fresh drinking-quality (and safe) hydration easy with its high technology pleated glass fiber construction that captures 99%+ sunlight transmission while also being durable enough not only withstand rough conditions but provide optimal flow rate throughout varied environments.

MSR TrailShot Water Filter

The micro filter is a revolutionary water bottle that will help you save weight on your next run. It’s shorter than two comparable bottles and can be stored in the pocket of any backpack or hydration pack for instant access when needed! The tiny size also means it’ll work almost anywhere. trail runs down mountain trails, cross country adventures through rough terrain-even while hiking at high elevation where dehydration may pose risky problems.

This nifty gadget was designed so runners have clean drinking water ready without having to carry extra supplies.

Imagine the freedom of not having to buy bottled water for your next adventure. With this filter, you can enjoy reliable clean drinking-water anytime anywhere! It fits in a simple pocket or pouch along side my bars and its quick release design lets me drop it into place without hassle – just put pre filtered aquariums below H2O sources so that they’re always within reach when needed toughest situations (like hiking through tracker whipped desserts!). The Trails Shot Filter uses hollow fiber technology which meets high standards from removing prooenza like giardia & cryptosporidium as well bacteria such e coli salmonella.

KATADYNE Gravity BeFree 3.0L Water Filter

Katadyne gravity filters are perfect for when you need clean water quickly and easily. The three liter capacity means that it will last all day long, even with heavy use! Its simple design makes filter maintenance quick. No back flushing necessary because there’s nothing blocking your intake slot so air comes straight from above which keeps impurities at bay. Without allowing them inside the container itself where they could cause problems by causing gasses like chlorine or other unwanted chemicals to form. It also ensures any bacteria has little room too grow before being filtered.

Katadyne’s gravity filter is a nifty little invention that makes it easy to fill up before you go on your next camping trip, and will keep Fido hydrated too! It also cleans easily with just one shake or swish through water source. The best part? You can take this lightweight design anywhere – whether its into the mountains for an outdoor adventure, by boat over calm lakesides where there are no tap handles close-by. Even when traveling abroad as opposed to lugging around bulky gas powered units which could get costly fast if not done correctly first time around due mainly because they’re so heavy.

LIFESTRAW Personal Water Filter

Lifestraw is a revolutionary water filter that allows you to drink clean, safe drinking water anywhere. It’s small enough for easy storage and lightweight so it doesn’t weigh down your backpack or cause discomfort when carried throughout an adventure – perfect if there’s no access point near where we’ll be traveling! The LifeStraw filters 1k gallons of pure lifesaving H2O equivalent per cartridge which means they can last up tp 1000 uses. This may not be our best choice but is very popular and small enough to carry just about anywhere.

PLATAPUS Gravity Works 4.0L Water Filter

Gravityworks 4-liter system is a fast and easy way to filter lots of water. Whether you’re deep in the backcountry or car camping at trailhead. The large 4 liters reservoirs allow for quick filtration with no effort – it takes only 1/2 hour before your first drink! Additionally there’s enough storage capacity so that even during high demand situations (up 8 pods), all will be accorded cleanliness without worry about running low on supplies beforehand…

What’s the best way to filter water? It is not always easy finding a clean source, but with this system it only takes one tap of your hose. The dirty reservoir can be filled from any nearby puddle or stream that you find while out on an adventure – no need for silly filters at scenic overlooks! Use zip ties and elevate them so they’re higher than anything else around (a tree works well).

The input tells us how-to do everything step by steps; there isn’t much colloquialism used in these.

Filtering at maximum speed, the dirty reservoir above rest of system extending hose as much possible allow little water collect in clean filter and raise it up high so you can flush any air that entered into your device. If camping far away from drinking source then after filtering eight liters onsite first before filling ozone contaminated waters back home again with only 2L left inside both tanks!

You can choose from different closure caps to match your needs in the field. A quick 4 second back flush is all that’s required for regular maintenance. It will keep things running smoothly! Approximately every 8 liters (depending on water quality). Do this simple procedure: reverse four seconds then let flow into dirty reservoir until running clear again.

Doing this quickly becomes second nature and will ensure you the best speed and long term performance from your filter. However, you travel if you want the most water with the least hassle, there’s no beating the gravity works.

SAWYER Squeeze Water Filter – Our Best Choice!!!

With the Sawyer Squeeze Filter, you can enjoy hiking and camping with a light weight total field of three ounces. The pouches are affordable at only $8 each for all sizes! This filter is perfect because it’s packable meaning no more heavy backpacks or tents when traveling abroad- just bring your water bottle so that there will be plenty left over after filling up on some adventure near campfire.

In order to use this product simply select which pouch size best fits what kind travel plans have in mind then fill them both equally full before screwing off the top.

Whether you’re at home or abroad, don’t trust bottled water when traveling. The filter will keep your drink safe and healthy with its large surface area that catches any dirty needles from the tap—and it takes less than 20 seconds! If needed (rare!), follow these steps to backwash: Unscrew push-pull cap on bottom of Squeeze Filters; fill included syringe between two filters until foam begins draining out into jars.

In our opinion this portable water filter is the best option for all outdoor activities.

Final Thoughts

As you can see there is a host of choices for getting clean filtered water our in the wild. It was a difficult job as all the portable water filters we review here are great for all outdoor situations. So, next time your hiking, camping, backpacking or a filter to store in your bug out bag any one of these will do the job. Our best choice though is the SAWYER Squeeze Water Filter, it really is small to carry, lightweight and does an awesome job.

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In this article we will delve into the items that go into setting up your own Children’s Survival Kit.

Your child may be a whiz kid with their iPad but that doesn’t mean they’re prepared and knowledgeable in real life circumstances. Especially an emergency situation, whether it’s something as simple as a day at the beach or a camping trip. Or in a rare situation like an earthquake or hurricane. You want your kids to know what to do in any circumstance. The Ultimate Survival Kit for Kids is perfect to keep around the house in a backpack. Small enough not to take up too much space in your home but ready at a moments notice to take on a road trip or emergency situation.

The next step for your child having their own survival kit. Is to know how to use the items and the multitude of uses they can provide. I will make a note to write a post showing a more detailed look at the items listed below. So look out for that one.

What age should your child have their own survival kit?

In most cases that would depends on the child. Although in my opinion as soon as a child is old enough to play in the playground they are ready to learn what to do in adverse situations. For example start with teaching them how a compass works or how to use a mirror to signal from afar. You can create small activities and games that include these items and become familiar with their children’s survival kit. The way I taught my children is I took them camping. In the process I would show them how I lit fires, gathered wood, setup tents, etc etc. This may not be possible for all people, especially city folk, you would be surprised what can be learnt in a backyard and the local park. Not only will they learn life saving skills but they will have so much fun. Not to mention fondly looking back to the time they spent with you.

Special notes to consider

Once you survival kit items have been packed in a back pack be sure to check if it’s not too heavy with your child. I good rule of thumb is keep the bag roughly the same weight as their school bag. As the child gets older you can adjust the back pack with more and/or larger items.

It’s also a good idea to monitor the survival bag for expired products i.e energy bars. Also remember to check the condition of batteries i.e headlamp, torch.

Whenever possible get the child to use the bag like taking it along to hikes, camps, day trips etc. This keeps them accustomed to the bag and a sense of ownership.

Top 20 items to add to your child’s survival kit

Let’s get into the nuts and bolts with my ‘must have’ items to include in the survival kit.

First Aid Kit

A small first aid kit is great for youngest, it’s a chance to teach them basic first aid. I believe all children should at least have a basic knowledge of first aid and having one in their survival kit is a good motivator to learn.

Whistle

This item is important and one that you can pick up at the local thrift store. Buy one that is loud and looks like it will last more than 5 minutes.

Collapsible water bottle

Being collapsible this water bottle wont take up a large amount of space or add too much weight to the survival bag.

Winter Gloves

Gloves can be bulky so you may need to spend a little more and get good quality gloves.

Rain poncho

This item is packed so small it’s worth having one in the survival bag. They are generally so roomy so can easily be worn over parkers and jump suits.

Sunscreen

A small tube is all that’s needed here, the smaller the better. Must be at least 30+

Signal Mirror

A small item that has some powerful uses. Be sure to include one in the survival kit.

Torch

Battery powered torches are fine but you must remember to keep the batteries charged if they are rechargeable. My preferred option is crank powered torches. Read my article on the best ones here.

Knife

There are some small kids knives to choose from. Importantly teach your child how to safely handle and use such an item. Obviously there are many useful uses having a knife so teach them to use it responsibly.

Headlamp

Since discovering the headlamp it’s quickly become one of my favorite fishing companions. They are so good it’s a must have in any survival bag.

Energy Bars

Storing some long lasting food is a great idea, in this case energy bars foot the bill.

Duct Tape

Another item you can cheaply obtain at a thrift store. Such a valuable item that can be used in hundreds of different ways.

Water Filter

This is one of the most items to include as it can be life saving. They can also be used during school times and all types of outdoor activities.

Wash Cloth and/or moist Towelettes

This is another item you can buy cheaply at the local supermarket but ideal to clean sticky fingers.

Can Opener

You never when you might need one. May not be an essential item at the beginning but one worth adding as they get older.

Firestarter

There are a multitude of fire starters on the market and most are a good buy. One I highly recommend is this one above. Take time to teach your child how to use it effectively.

Emergency Blanket

This item can be used to sleep in or keep a young one warm. They are a small item and should be a survival bag addition.

Plastic Bags

Preferably zip lock bags, they can be used to keep things dry, such as matches.

Compass and Map

This may be last but could be the most important item you can include. What’s more important than having a compass and map is knowing how to use one. This takes specialized knowledge, so as a parent or guardian it’s up to you to first learn how to use a compass and map effectively. It would be a good idea to start an orientation course together.

Final Thoughts

As the child gets older and stronger you can continue to add more items which invariably will turn into a full blown survival bag. At some stage they will take full ownership and manage it themselves, which is the goal I suppose.

As you can clearly see from the above list you only need to spend a little to gather all the items. Most can be bought at the local supermarket for pennies to the dollar which would go into a usable and useful Children’s Survival Kit.

More importantly your teaching them life skills which in some cases could save them or others lives. With today’s kids stuck indoors playing computer games or watching videos this will encourage them to get into the outdoors. This all starts from the parents so don’t become complacent and put it off. Take action today and spend some quality time with your children start by putting together the items above and start their very own children’s survival kit.

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