Here is where I discuss everything related to survival, bushcraft, and Arcturus Primitive Skills Institute.
One of the principles I teach my students at Arcturus Primitive Skills Institute is this: I am, and always will be, a student. Take edible and medicinal plants, for example. While I’ve accumulated a substantial amount of knowledge, the learning never ends. There is no way I’ll ever master every single plant’s use on this planet—and … Read more
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YVcHDcrl1R0 Description: When temperatures soar, your body’s ability to regulate heat can be pushed to the limit. In this essential guide, we break down the key differences between heat exhaustion and heat stroke—two heat-related illnesses that can escalate quickly if not recognized and treated. Learn how to spot early warning signs like dizziness, heavy sweating, … Read more
It’s July 1, 2025, and summer is officially here. In West Michigan, we’ve already endured two major heat waves, with temperatures soaring into the low to mid-90s. During my June 20–22 Basic 101 course, I stressed an important core principle: hydrate, stay shaded, and cool down often. I even hung a tarp over our meeting area … Read more
Wintergreen is an evergreen plant native to North America and the Eastern Woodlands. Renowned for its potent medicinal properties, this plant’s leaves and oil contain methyl salicylate—a compound with remarkable pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory effects. Historically, Wintergreen has been used to address a wide array of ailments, including muscle pain, headaches, nerve pain, sciatica, arthritis, joint … Read more
Wheeping Forsythia Weeping Forsythia (Forsythia suspensa) is a hallmark of spring, and one of the first bloomers to catch my eye each season. I typically spot this plant alongside Snowdrops early in the year. It has been valued in traditional medicine since ancient times for its numerous health benefits. The yellow blossoms can be eaten … Read more
In the Eastern Woodlands of the United States, selecting the right wood is critical for successfully making a primitive fire using a bow drill. Among the various options, tulip poplar and cedar are my go-to choices for creating friction fire with a bow drill due to their superior performance. There are five key factors to … Read more
Setting out into the wilderness is more than just an adventure—it’s the epitome of freedom. But living in the wild comes with its own set of hefty challenges. For those new to bushcraft, the sheer volume of survival skills can be overwhelming. Where does one begin? What should a beginner focus on? Once you’ve acquired … Read more
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 … Read more
Frostbite is nature’s brutal way of reminding you who’s boss. When temperatures plummet and you’re exposed to the biting cold for too long, your skin and the tissues beneath can literally freeze solid. It’s the extremities—fingers, toes, ears, and nose—that take the worst hit. Initially, your skin turns ice-cold and red, then goes numb, hard, … Read more
