Arcturus Primitive Skills Institute

Arcturus Primitive Skills Institute 2023 in Review

Gold Over Bitcoin: A Survivalist’s Investment Outlook

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As of October 21, 2025, gold is priced at $4,134 per ounce and projected to rise by 58.14% over the next year. In contrast, Bitcoin is expected to increase by only 8%. While this surge in gold may benefit investors, it also signals deeper instability in the U.S. economy. Will physical gold become a better investment than Bitcoin or other cryptocurrrencies?
 
When gold hits $5,000 per ounce, experts warn of potential disruptions to the banking system. Here’s what that could mean for your financial survival:
 
Key Impacts of Surging Gold Prices
• Growing Demand for Physical Gold: As prices climb, demand for tangible assets like gold bullion and 1 oz. coins (e.g., American Gold Eagles) is expected to spike. This could lead to production bottlenecks and supply shortages.
• Risk of Bank Runs Rising: Gold often reflects declining confidence in fiat currency. If Americans begin withdrawing funds en masse, banks may face liquidity crises. Gold’s inverse relationship with the dollar means that as gold rises, the dollar weakens.
• Rising Interest Rates: To combat inflation and maintain stability, banks may hike interest rates on loans. This could make borrowing more expensive and slow economic growth.
• Market Volatility: A sharp increase in gold prices may trigger panic or speculative behavior in financial markets, leading to unpredictable swings in asset values.
 
What Should You Do?
If survival and wealth preservation are your priorities, it may be time to reassess your investment strategy. Bitcoin, like stocks and bonds, is a digital and speculative asset. In uncertain times, hard assets like gold and silver—both showing strong upward trends—offer tangible value and resilience.
 
Final Thought
What will the U.S. economy look like in one year? In five? No one knows for sure. But if history is any guide, those who prepare early with real assets will weather the storm better than those who don’t.
Buckle up. The ride ahead could be turbulent.
 
Disclaimer: These are just my thoughts; I am no financial expert. BUT, wait and see if my assessment is correct.

Wild Chestnuts-Nature’s Ultimate Snack

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Every fall, from mid-September through November, wild chestnuts begin to drop—and I know they’ve arrived when I feel their prickly outer shells stab me in the foot. These spiny husks, called burrs, start to split open between mid-September and early October, revealing the treasure inside: the chestnut, a delicious and nutrient-rich nut tucked within.
 
Compared to most other nuts, chestnuts are surprisingly low in fat and calories. They’re higher in carbohydrates, making them a great energy source, and they pack a solid fiber punch—one serving delivers about 15% of your daily needs. They also offer a decent dose of vitamins and minerals, including K, B5, and B3, along with phosphorus and magnesium. Thanks to this nutritional profile, chestnuts may support heart health, blood sugar control, weight management, digestion, and even have potential anticancer properties.
 
How to Roast Wild Chestnuts
If you’ve gathered your own or picked some up at the market, here’s a simple way to prepare them:
1. Remove the chestnut from its spiky burr.
2. Score the shell: Using a sharp knife, cut an ‘X’ into the shell of each chestnut (not the burr). This helps steam escape and makes peeling easier.
3. Soak them: Place the chestnuts in a metal pot filled with water and let them soak for a few hours. Discard any that float—they’re likely bad. Then drain the water.
4. Roast over fire: Toss the soaked chestnuts into a skillet or frying pan and roast them over an open flame or stovetop for about 20 minutes. Add a pinch of salt for flavor.
 
The finished chestnuts should be yellowish in color, tender, and taste remarkably like yams or sweet potatoes—earthy, sweet, and comforting.
 
Happy foraging this fall. May your hunt be fruitful and your fire warm.
Art-Arcturus Primitive Skills Institute

DIY IFAK

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Build Your Own Budget IFAK—Save Cash, Stay Ready

If you’re serious about preparedness but tired of overpriced gear, this guide is for you. We’re breaking down how to build your own Individual First Aid Kit (IFAK) without draining your wallet. I’ve already shared a list tailored for gunshot wound treatment, but this time we’re going full DIY—budget-conscious, battle-ready.

And yes, I’ll be selling these IFAKs at my store. You’ll find my prices beat the competition, hands down.

Step 1: Choose Your Container

Start with a pouch or case. I found MOLLE-compatible tactical pouches on AliExpress for $1.99. Temu wanted $6.99 for the same thing. Want to go ultra-cheap? Use a gallon-sized Ziplock bag. It’s not fancy, but it works.

Step 2: Add a Light Source

A Surefire flashlight is top-tier, but if you’re cutting costs, grab a budget flashlight or toss in a glow stick. Visibility matters—don’t skip this.

Step 3: Stock the Essentials

Here’s what you need to pack. No fluff. No filler. Just gear that works:

  • Combat Gauze (Quick-Clot preferred; S-rolled gauze is the budget alternative)

  • Hyfin Chest Seal

  • Israeli Emergency Bandage or Olaes Bandage (cheaper: 4″ Emergency Trauma Dressing)

  • Mylar Blanket

  • Nitrile Gloves

  • Nasopharyngeal Airway (NPA) – carry multiple sizes for different individuals

  • Tourniquet – go with a genuine CAT, not the knockoffs

  • Trauma Shears

  • 4″x4″ Gauze Pads

This setup covers the basics for trauma response in the field. Whether you’re building for personal use, or training, this guide keeps your costs low and your readiness high.

Best Haversacks for Minimalist Bushcrafters

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When venturing into the wild, a lightweight haversack is key, but first, let’s discuss the materials they are made from. While high-quality leather looks and feels great, it’s generally too heavy for a lightweight haversack. Polyester is light and affordable but often lacks the robustness needed for bushcraft. The top materials for lightweight bushcraft haversacks are:
1. Waxed Canvas
  • Pros: Extremely durable, develops a rugged patina over time, and is highly water-resistant. It’s tough enough for the most challenging conditions.
  • Cons: The heaviest of the three materials and not very breathable.
2. Oilcloth
  • Pros: Lightweight, excellent water resistance, and easy to clean. Perfect for keeping your gear dry.
  • Cons: Slightly less durable than waxed canvas and potentially flammable.
3. Nylon
  • Pros: Lightweight, strong, and flame-resistant. Cordura 500D is a heavier-duty variant that’s exceptionally durable and water-resistant.
  • Cons: Less water-resistant than waxed canvas or oilcloth unless treated. Can melt and drip under high heat, posing burn risks.
For minimalist bushcraft haversack, consider these lightweight options:
  1. Helikon-Tex Bushcraft Satchel
    • Material: Cordura 500D (heavy-duty nylon)
    • Weight: 1.06 lb (500g)
    • Features: Multiple pockets and compartments, large main pocket with a heavy-duty zipper, side attachments for tools, and a solid shoulder strap with quick-release buckles.
    • Price: $59 – $73
  2. Campcraft Outdoors XL Haversack
    • Material: Waxed canvas
    • Weight: 0.85 lb (390g)
    • Features: Adjustable shoulder strap, extra-large single pouch, heavy-duty stitching, hand waxed for water resistance.
    • Price: Around $45
  3. FJÄLLRÄVEN Greenland Shoulder Bag
    • Material: G-1000 (poly-cotton, waterproof, and weather-resistant)
    • Weight: 0.64 lb (290g)
    • Features: Large main compartment, smaller sub-compartments for organization. Wax supplied by the company for added waterproofing.
    • Price: Around $135
 
For oilcloth haversacks, visit Etsy. The main advantage of oilcloth haversacks is how lightweight they are. Some are in the range of 6-12 ounces! Happy hunting. For classes on survival and bushcraft, go to my shop tab, click on the class you want to attend, pick the date that works for you and go to the checkout. “I’ll see you in the wild!”
 

Grid Down Ready: Top Strategies for Ensuring Power Continuity

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 When the Grid Goes Down: Be Prepared

It’s not a matter of if, but when. In the event of a grid-down scenario, having a reliable power source for various applications becomes essential. Picture this: batteries for flashlights to investigate that strange bump in the night. Let’s prepare!

First, invest in a couple of Surefire flashlights. Stock up on CR123A lithium batteries to ensure you have a powerful, tactical flashlight at your disposal.

Next, purchase lithium-ion batteries and 18650 rechargeable batteries. Additionally, stock up on AAA, AA alkaline batteries, and size D batteries for various applications. For extremely reliable power, consider nickel-metal hydride batteries.

Then, acquire both a tri-fuel generator and a diesel-burning generator. Make sure to have fuel for each generator. For the tri-fuel generator, keep a supply of gasoline, propane, and natural gas on hand.

Don’t forget to buy some battery banks, such as the Dewalt 1600 Peak Amp Jump Starter. This will give you power and enable you to jump-start your vehicle if needed.

Consider investing in solar panels to charge those battery banks and portable solar chargers for charging smaller devices like phones and radios.

Note: In a grid-down scenario, the sound of a generator may attract unwanted guests who realize you have what they need. Hence, the Surefire flashlight for investigating those strange bumps in the night is a wise investment. Pro tip, black out those windows to prevent prying eyes from seeing that you are prepared.

Lastly, stock up on candles and lamps. Kerosene lamps work great. Ensure you have plenty of lamps, wicks, mantles, and chimneys. Here are some recommended lamps:

  1. Lamplight Large Paraffin Oil Indoor Lamp
  2. Dietz Original 76
  3. Feuerhand Hurricane Lantern
  4. Firefly Fuel Wine Bottle Lamp
  5. Aladdin Genie III Oil Lamp

Prepare now and stay ahead of the game!

2025 Season and New Offerings at APSI

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Basic 101 Course Dates:
April 25-27
May 23-25
June 20-22
July 25-27
August 8-10
September 12-14
October 3-5

Intermediate 201 Course Dates:
August 29-31

New for 2025: Weekend Tent Rentals for Students
For just $75, students can rent a complete camping setup for the weekend. This includes a tent, sleeping bag, ground mat or cot, and a USB charging station for your cellphones, tablets, or other electronic devices. Our campsite is conveniently close to the main house, ensuring you have access to WiFi.

Special Offer for Previous 101 Course Students:
If you have previously taken our 101 course, you can join us for the weekend free of charge as a teaching assistant! We only ask that you help with teaching and assisting around the camp. This is a fantastic opportunity to refresh your skills and meet new people.

Non-Students Welcome:
Non-students can join the weekend fun for $150. This package includes a tent, sleeping arrangement, and USB charging station.
I am preparing for the 2025 season and look forward to it! I’ll see you in the wild!

Life-Saving Tactics: Mastering the Tourniquet for Emergency Situations

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Life Saving Tactics: Mastering the Tourniquet for Emergency Situations

https://youtu.be/uOoSIjooYqk?si=3jfoG4IuTwoibv89

How to use a tourniquet. #survivalskills #firstaid #tourniquet #wildernesssurvival #emergencypreparedness #outdoorsafety #survivaltips #bleedingcontrol  #preparedness #lifesavingskills #survivaltraining #learntosurvive #stopthebleed 

Emergency Ready: The Ultimate Bugout Bag Checklist

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Bugout Bag Kit List: We live in extremely uncertain times, from the port strikes, to the war in Ukraine, and to the soon-to-be apocalyptic war in the Middle East between Israel and Iran. We have no idea what is coming, but we all need to be ready for any emergency that may present itself, and I cannot recommend enough, having a bugout bag for yourself and each of your loved ones. Please see the checklist below.

1. Shelter (You want to regulate your body’s core temperature)

  • Tent, rainfly, hammock or tarp: Lightweight, rain-proof, and weather-resistant.
  • Sleeping bag: You want a bag with down insulation. Down insulation is lightweight, compressible, and has the excellent ability to maintain warmth. This is what you want for cold weather.
  • Blanket: You want wool, it is easily compressible, lightweight, and is excellent for warmth, even when wet. You can even sleep with 2-3 wool blankets sandwiched in a tarp on the ground.
  • Emergency space blanket/mylar blanket: Use to keep you warm, for signaling, and for an emergency shelter. Drape it around your shoulders, sit against a tree, light a candle and warm yourself inside the emergency blanket.

2. Food/Water

  • Water purification device: Filters and devices such as a LifeStraw.
  • Water bottles or bags of water: Portable and easy to pack
  • Water purification tablets: Easy to pack and small.
  • Non-perishable food: MREs, freeze-dried food, energy bars, hard candy.
  • Mess Kit: Portable stove, cook pot, plate, cup, spork

3. Med Kit

  • Basic first-aid supplies: Bandages, antiseptic wipes, gauze, adhesive tape.
  • Medications: Personal prescriptions, allergy meds, antihistamines, pain-killers, heart-burn meds, (optional but recommended-Epipen, Narcan).
  • Tools: Tweezers, multitool, scissors, safety pins, cloth sail needle.
  • Tourniquet: Gunshot wounds, apply so you don’t bleed out.
  • Corn starch: Stops bleeding effectively.

4. Tools and Equipment

  • Multi-tool: Get a Leatherman such as the Wave.
  • Survival knife: Get a Mora Black or Mora Pathfinder.
  • Paracord/#36 bankline, cordage: So many uses.
  • Duct tape: For repairs, first-aid, signaling, cut into strips to light a fire, and make emergency fixes.

5. Navigation and Signaling

  • Map and compass: Always have a physical map, find them at MyTopo, get a Suunto mc2 compass.
  • Whistle: Use for signaling.
  • Portable charger, solar charger or power bank: For your iPhone, electronics, etc.
  • Walkie-Talkies: For comms between your teammates.
  • GPS with batteries: Most reliable method; map and compass are a backup to your GPS.

6. Clothing

  • Clothing: Waterproof coat, multiple layers when cold, you want real wool.
  • Extra dry socks and clean underwear: Keep yourself dry, clean, and comfortable.
  • Rugged footwear: Broken-in, durable, think Salomon shoes, they are the best in my personal experience and affordable. Merrell’s are good and affordable but tend to make your feet hot in my experience.
  • Gloves: Protect your hands when grid down and in rugged environments.

7. Personal Items

  • Hard Cash: Bring cash for emergencies, and if grid down, bring silver such as American Silver Eagles.
  • Toiletries: Soap, shampoo, toothbrush, toothpaste, wet wipes which are easier to pack than toilet paper, gold bond.

8. Self-Defense

  • Hand Weapons: Buy a full-tang tomahawk, a good utility tool and self-defense weapon. Carry a good knife for both bushcraft and self-defense. I like my Mora Pathfinder. For something more intimidating, try the Becker BK9, it looks like a short sword. Also consider a foldable saw like the Bahco Laplander or Silky Gomboy.
  • Firearms: Just buy a Glock in .9mm.

9. Miscellaneous

  • Flashlight: Get a Sure Fire with extra batteries. A headlamp is also a good option.
  • Fire-making: You want a minimum of 3 ways to light a fire, such as fero rod, lighter, matches, or perhaps flint and steel. Put in a small bag, also add tinder.
  • Outdoor contractor bags: Buy at Dollar General, cheaper and more rugged than regular trash bags.
  • Notepad and a pen: Use for notes.
  • Cotton Bandannas: Many uses, bandaging, signaling, making char cloth, mark a waypoint, filter water.

10. Optional Items

  • Fishing kit: For gathering food.
  • Bivvy sack or emergency tent: Bring for a quick shelter.

Pro Tips:

  • Check your inventory and the condition of your gear once a month.
  • Mod your gear based on your own personal needs. Example, for me that would be including both Claritin-D and Xyzal for my allergies.
  • Get your family and practice bugging out twice a year at a minimum. Try it in warmer months (spring, summer) and cold months (fall, winter).
  • Try to keep your bag at 25-30 lbs or less, because ounces equal pounds, and pounds equal pain.
  • This list is highly modifiable!

Rise and Shine: Crafting the Ultimate Mountain Man Breakfast

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Mountain Man Breakfast:

Ingrediets:

Breakfast Sausage-2lbs

½ Onion Diced

½ Pepper of your choice (banana, bell, jalapeno)

Smoked Paprika to taste (optional; other seasonings)

Add in 4 Hashbrowns or 1 Potato diced

Add 6 eggs

Add shredded Colby Cheese

First brown the sausage, then cook the onion and pepper(s). Add your seasoning. Throw in your hashbrowns or diced potatoes. Add 6 eggs (or up to a dozen if feeding more). Cook about 10 minutes or until done. Add shredded cheese and melt it in the dutch oven. Enjoy!

#MountainManBreakfast #OutdoorCooking #CampfireCooking

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