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
Forget the fantasy of a cozy cabin. When the world unravels, you need more than comfort—you need control. A bugout retreat is your shielded stronghold, built not just for survival, but for endurance. Here’s the no-nonsense blueprint to create a fortress that’s rugged, realistic, and relentlessly prepared. Food & Water Essentials• Long-term food storage: Freeze-dried meals, … 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
Firearms Preparedness In the realm of preparedness, prioritizing firearms proficiency is essential. While some individuals acquire firearms expertise through military service, law enforcement careers, or years of experience as hunters or outdoorsmen, the majority of Americans lack comprehensive, real-world firearms training and knowledge. As a dedicated gun enthusiast, I train daily with my firearms … 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
Are You Really Prepared for the Wild? I always enjoy when people dive into conversations about their “survival plans” for when disaster strikes. It’s fascinating how many tell me they’d grab their bugout bag and head for the vast wilderness of North America. Some even imagine escaping into Canada’s untamed frontier.But before you romanticize living off … 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
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
