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Jay Gaulard

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You are here: Home / Archives for Bushcraft & Camping

Bushcraft & Camping

I find the hobbies of both bushcraft and camping quite interesting. I've been very much into camping since I was a kid. My family went on multiple far away camping trips ever summer, so I've got tons of experience with it. We also owned some nearby land in upstate New York on which we often camped. Bushcraft is fairly new to me, so I'm still learning a lot. I love the gear that's available to buy and what one can do with it. I also love all the technique and education that's necessary for a successful experience. In this category, I'll discuss camping and bushcraft topics, which will include knot tying, gear reviews, resources found in the wild, camping locations, personal experiences, and more.

How to Tie Basic Knots – The Collection

June 20, 2019

Double Overhand Knot

Here you’ll find a collection of posts that cover how to tie basic knots as well as resources where you can learn more. What’s the Best Book Available for Learning How to Tie Knots? I’ve heard a lot about this topic. Basically, I’m looking to get a definitive answer on which is the best book […]

Filed Under: Bushcraft & Camping

Do I Need a Jackknife?

May 29, 2019

I guess I can answer that question myself. Yes, I (or you) probably do need a jackknife. If anyone does any camping or bushcraft, it’s best to have a jackknife (folding knife) in their pocket, on their belt of in their bag. The reason for this is its versatility. I own a large survival knife […]

Filed Under: Bushcraft & Camping

What are the Best Jackknife Brands?

May 29, 2019

I’d like to know what people think the best brands for jackknives are. If you were to look for one today, where would you look and what brands would you look at. I’m currently browsing around Amazon and a number of camping and bushcraft websites and I’m seeing tons of knives that vary in price. […]

Filed Under: Bushcraft & Camping

What Are the Best Mittens For Freezing Cold Weather?

May 24, 2019

Question: I have been battling cold fingers ever since I moved to Maine. I’d go on vacations up north or ski or go hiking in the deep snow and if there’s one thing that’s always cold on me, it’s my hands and fingers. I wonder if there is actually a solution to this. I don’t […]

Filed Under: Bushcraft & Camping

Military Wool Mitten Inserts From Maine Military Supply

May 24, 2019

Wool Military Mitten

My lady and I had to go to Bangor for the day a while back, so I decided to make a stop off at the local Maine Military Supply store that’s located right off of Interstate 395. It’s just south of Bangor; it’s on Rt. 1A in Holden. I’ve never been there before, but what […]

Filed Under: Bushcraft & Camping

Springtime Camping in Farmington, Maine

May 22, 2019

Rocking Chair & Camping Fire Pit

I’ve long said that we need a campground in our town. Well, I guess we now have the closest thing to that and it happens to be right in my backyard. A friend and I cleared some more underbrush and trees a few days ago and we now have one of the most lovely camping […]

Filed Under: Bushcraft & Camping

What Kind of Knife Do I Need for Bushcraft & Camping?

May 8, 2019

Question: I’m looking to purchase my first “real” knife and I’m wondering if anyone has any advice for which one to buy. I know there are a few different types of blades with hundreds of different styles, so I’m a little lost. If you can, please let me know your opinions. Thank you. Answer: I’ll […]

Filed Under: Bushcraft & Camping

Estwing Hatchet Photo Shoot on Mossy Rock

April 23, 2019

Estwing Axe Head

I was outside today chopping away at what I suspect is fatwood when I placed my Estwing hatchet down on a mossy stone while I took a break. I thought it looked pretty good there, being all rugged, so I snapped some photos of it. The snow has finally melted and all the moss is […]

Filed Under: Bushcraft & Camping

What Does Fatwood Look Like?

April 23, 2019

Chopping Fatwood

I just wrote another post where I displayed a few different photographs of what I think may be fatwood. I wanted to post a few pictures here as well to get any opinions anyone may want to offer. I don’t know how much crossover there is between posts, so I wanted to cover all my […]

Filed Under: Bushcraft & Camping

What Gear Do I Need For Bushcraft?

April 23, 2019

Question: I’m a beginner and I have recently purchased a few bags to carry all sorts of stuff in. I have a very nice backpack and a haversack. The only problem is, I don’t have much actual gear yet. I do have a few lighters and a knife or two, but nothing like the pros […]

Filed Under: Bushcraft & Camping

Have I Found Fatwood?

April 22, 2019

Dead Pine Tree Stump

Ever since I began thinking about fatwood a few months ago, I’ve been intent on finding it. Apparently, it’s like finding a needle in a haystack around here though. From what I’ve watched and read online, all I need to do is locate a pine tree that’s fallen over, chop it up a bit with […]

Filed Under: Bushcraft & Camping

My New 5.11 RUSH24 Tactical Backpack

April 18, 2019

5.11 RUSH24 Backpack Tag

I’ve actually been looking for a new backpack for some time. Regular backpacks are sort of small and since I always have tons of stuff to put in mine, I needed something that was a bit larger than was I had traditionally used. I gave an earnest search a few years back, but after that […]

Filed Under: Bushcraft & Camping

The Verdict on the Harbor Freight Wool Blankets is In

April 13, 2019

Haul Master Wool Blanket Tag

I received my two wool blankets from Harbor Freight yesterday in the mail. I really had no idea what to expect when ordering them because they were only $10.99 per piece. It was difficult to believe that they’d be any good, considering Iv’e seen other wool blankets selling for hundreds of dollars. As a matter […]

Filed Under: Bushcraft & Camping

What’s the Best Haversack Out There?

April 10, 2019

Question: To me, haversacks are the best containers in which to carry gear when I go out for short periods of time. I love the look of them and I love the feel of them. They’re very practical and I like the fact that they stay out of my way when I’m hiking and working […]

Filed Under: Bushcraft & Camping

What is a Tumpline?

April 10, 2019

Question: Every time I read something, I feel like I’m back at square one. I had no idea there was going to be this much to know when it came to bushcraft, hiking and camping. I’ve already learned a lot though, so I’m pretty psyched about that. Has anyone ever heard of a “tumpline”? I […]

Filed Under: Bushcraft & Camping

How Does Bushcraft Compare to Camping?

April 9, 2019

This question has been on my mind for some time now. What I’m starting to notice out there on the internet is a ton of overlap when it comes to bushcraft, backpacking, camping and hiking. Even just hanging out in the woods with a hatchet in hand can be considered…I guess…bushcraft. I know what bushcraft […]

Filed Under: Bushcraft & Camping

Swiss Army Knife vs. Leathman – Which is Better?

April 9, 2019

I have recently become fascinated by both the Swiss Army Knife as well as the Leatherman Multitool. I don’t see how I couldn’t have been affected because once you watch a video on one of these tools, you become addicted. At least that’s what’s happened to me. Now I want one of these things – […]

Filed Under: Bushcraft & Camping

Are Bushcraft Pack Baskets Really Necessary?

April 9, 2019

Question: Yes, here’s another one of my beginner questions. I’d like to thank all of you for your patience. You’ve given me a lot to think about with the help you’ve given to me previously, so I appreciate it. This question has to do with pack baskets. I am at somewhat of a loss as […]

Filed Under: Bushcraft & Camping

What are Pack Frames Used For?

April 8, 2019

Question: I am so confused about pack frames. I’ve been watching video after video on Youtube in an effort to discern what these things are used for. I’m still not quite sure. I know that backpacks and rucksacks are used with bushcraft and camping, but why does someone need anything beyond that? Are pack frames […]

Filed Under: Bushcraft & Camping

What is MOLLE on Rucksacks?

April 5, 2019

Question: As you know, I’m looking to purchase my first rucksack and I think I’ve decided on what I want. I’m going to start out with the 5.11 Rush24 and then I’ll move onto the Rush72 when winter rolls around. I know these are more expensive than what I was initially looking for, but I […]

Filed Under: Bushcraft & Camping

How Strong is 1050D Nylon?

April 5, 2019

Question: I’m currently in the market for a camping and bushcraft rucksack and I’m somewhat overwhelmed by all the options available out there. So far, I’ve searched through all the rucksacks Cabela’s has for sale and I have no idea how many Amazon has for sale. That’s a rabbit hole if I ever saw one. […]

Filed Under: Bushcraft & Camping

Bugging Out: Has Anyone Ever Actually Bugged Out?

April 4, 2019

I need to know the answer to this question. My friend and I got in a heated “conversation” last night about this stuff. Now, I’m into getting out there just as much as the next guy (or girl), but I’m not into something that costs a lot of money that might never happen. My friend […]

Filed Under: Bushcraft & Camping

Looking For a Bushcraft & Camping Rucksack – What’s the Best Brand to Buy?

April 4, 2019

Question: Hi there. I’m currently in the market for my very first rucksack, or backpack. Whatever you want to call them. I’m getting into bushcraft and camping and I know I’ll need a nice bag in which to carry all of my stuff. The problem I’m finding out there is that there are about a […]

Filed Under: Bushcraft & Camping

How to Roll a Wool Blanket

April 3, 2019

I’ve been reading through Dave Canterbury’s book called Bushcraft 101 and have made it to the section on how to roll a wool blanket up so you can keep all your stuff inside of it as well as carry it on your back. I’ve never actually thought of anyone doing this, but the idea definitely […]

Filed Under: Bushcraft & Camping

Bushcraft: The Five Cs of Survivability

March 30, 2019

The Five Cs of Survivability - Dave Canterbury

If you were to ask me what I need to store in my pack before heading out into the wild, I’d probably get a few things right. I know I’d need a knife and something to start a fire with. And I know I’d need a tarp or a tent, but from that point on, […]

Filed Under: Bushcraft & Camping

Ever Ready Wool Blanket For Bushcraft & Camping

March 30, 2019

Sealed Ever Ready Wool Blanket in Plastic Wrap

Well, I received my Ever Ready wool blankets yesterday and boy am I excited. I never thought I’d feel this way about blankets, but that’s probably because I have never been involved with camping, bushcraft and the outdoors like I am now. Spring is right around the corner and once the snow melts off completely, […]

Filed Under: Bushcraft & Camping

What’s the Most Important Gear to Bring Camping?

March 30, 2019

I’m wondering if my camping gear list is complete. I don’t do as much bushcraft as I do regular camping, but I do use the principles of the Five Cs of Survivability to help me remember what I need to bring along for my camping trips. I’d like to go through my short list here […]

Filed Under: Bushcraft & Camping

Are Harbor Freight Wool Blankets Any Good?

March 30, 2019

I’ve been following a blog post on how to remove the oil smell from new wool blankets and it got me interested in purchasing one or two for myself. It seems like everyone in the bushcraft world is using these blankets nowadays. How Do I Get Rid of the Smell in My Brand New Wool […]

Filed Under: Bushcraft & Camping

How Do I Get Rid of the Smell in My Brand New Wool Blanket?

March 30, 2019

Question: All I can say is that this thing stinks. I can’t believe how bad it smells. I bought a brand new wool blanket and it arrived a few days ago. I’ve had it resting on the couch in it’s plastic container and I’ve been sitting here smelling it ever since. It’s not even opened […]

Filed Under: Bushcraft & Camping

My Brand New Wool Bushcraft Blankets

March 30, 2019

Harbor Freight & Ever Ready Wool Blankets

I received my two new blankets yesterday, so I thought posting pics of them on the blog would be interesting for all those who enjoy this type of thing. I honestly have no idea if these blankets are any good or not, so they’ll need some testing. I don’t think I’ve ever even used a […]

Filed Under: Bushcraft & Camping

What’s the Best Bushcraft & Camping Hatchet to Buy?

March 27, 2019

All Steel Hatchet Chopped Wood

I recently wrote a post where I introduced my new Estwing hatchet. In the post, I displayed a few photos of the tool and basically talked about some of its finer points. I bought the hatchet from Amazon.com for $35.43 and I thought it was a good deal. The thing is, I am seeing all […]

Filed Under: Bushcraft & Camping

Why Can’t I Find Any Fatwood?

March 27, 2019

I have gone outside twice now in an effort to find fatwood and I’ve failed both times. I live in Maine and I’m wondering if there’s any fatwood in the entire New England area. First, I tried cutting a few dead branches from an entirely dead Spruce three and the wood seemed very dry. It […]

Filed Under: Bushcraft & Camping

Which is the Best Ferro Rod to Buy?

March 27, 2019

Bayite Ferrocerium Ferro Rod

I just finished up writing a post about my new ferro (Ferrocerium) rod and I was looking to get some opinions on it. While this rod looks very nice and it was highly rated on Amazon.com, where I purchased it, I haven’t tested it in the field yet, so I’m still a bit curious about […]

Filed Under: Bushcraft & Camping

Bayite Large 6″ Ferro Rod

March 27, 2019

Bayite Ferro Rod

Here’s another winter camping story for you. A few weeks ago, when my buddy camped out on my land, the temperature dropped to 5° Fahrenheit. I helped him set up camp, but after that I went back inside to sleep. He was on a mission to test out his new cold weather camping gear (hammock) […]

Filed Under: Bushcraft & Camping

Visiting Our Winter Camping Spot in Maine

March 27, 2019

Maple Trees Forest in the Woods

As I’ve mentioned before on this blog, my lady, my friend and I went cold weather camping overnight here in Maine a few weeks ago. There was about two and a half feet of snow on the ground and we had to do tons of shoveling in order to set up our tents. We also […]

Filed Under: Bushcraft & Camping

Estwing 14″ Camping Hatchet

March 26, 2019

Estwing Camping Hatchet

Back a few weeks ago, when I was cold weather camping with my friend Ian, I noticed that he was using his hatchet for a number of different tasks. He chopped down a few small trees and he used the hatchet to chip away two small divots in pieces of wood so his bench would […]

Filed Under: Bushcraft & Camping

What Makes a Good Survival Knife?

March 25, 2019

Schrade SCHF9 Survival Knife

I just finished writing another blog post about my knife. You should check it out. I talk about why I first bought it and about some of its finer points. I also posted a few of my better pictures of the knife. I guess I’m writing this post here in the forum because I’d like […]

Filed Under: Bushcraft & Camping

Schrade SCHF9 Survival Knife

March 25, 2019

Schrade SCHF9 Survival Knife

For the next three or four posts, I’m going to be showing off some of the gear I’ve recently purchased as well as some gear I picked up through the years. I don’t have a lot, as I’m just starting out with bushcraft and camping, but I’m getting there. So far, I have a survival […]

Filed Under: Bushcraft & Camping

What Are the Best Wool Socks to Buy For Winter Sports?

March 24, 2019

Question: I do tons of snowshoeing and, at times, my feet have gotten cold. I’ve upgraded my boots, but they still get cold. I’ve been looking into different brands of wool socks and think that’s the way to go, but socks are so weird to buy. Some of them are very expensive and others are […]

Filed Under: Bushcraft & Camping

Bushcraft 101 by Dave Canterbury

March 22, 2019

Bushcraft 101 by Dave Canterbury Book Cover

I received my copy of Dave Canterbury’s book entitled, Bushcraft 101 in the mail yesterday and I am quite excited to jump into it. I’d like to read it as fast as possible because the spring weather is right around the corner. Notice how I didn’t say “spring” is right around the corner? It’s here […]

Filed Under: Bushcraft & Camping

Looking For the Best Bushcraft Book to Learn From

March 21, 2019

Bushcraft 101 by Dave Canterbury

I am very new to bushcraft, although I have a long history of being active in the outdoors. I live in Maine, which, if you aren’t aware, is one of the most outdoorsy states in the entire U.S. People around here practically live outside. Needless to say, I need to get up to snuff. I’m […]

Filed Under: Bushcraft & Camping

What is Bushcraft?

March 16, 2019

Schrade Knife

I’m new to this game, so I’m still trying to figure it all out. Luckily, I’m quite astute when it comes to activities like this. I pick up on things extremely quickly. I’ve heard of the term bushcraft for years. I’m not sure I’ve ever given it much thought before. I’ve always been a straight […]

Filed Under: Bushcraft & Camping

What to Wear to Sleep While Winter Camping + Check List

March 15, 2019

Stuff Sack for TETON Deer Hunter -35 Degrees Sleeping Bag

If you’ve never gone winter camping before and if the temperature is below 0 Fahrenheit, you’ll likely be in for a shock. If you’ve never felt that kind of cold for an extended period of time before, you’re definitely going to be in for a shock. I’m not sure there’s anything that can prepare you […]

Filed Under: Bushcraft & Camping

Welcoming Myself Back to Camping

March 14, 2019

For those who don’t know me, I’m involved in a lot of things. First and foremost, I’m a writer. I can’t stop writing. I write all day on the many websites I own and manage. Writing is in my soul and I honestly don’t see a time when that will stop being. I’m also a […]

Filed Under: Bushcraft & Camping

Winter Camping in a Chilly 4° Fahrenheit

March 13, 2019

Winter Camping in the Snow

I’ve got this friend who is totally into camping. He’s gone winter camping on our property earlier this season and recently showed interest in doing so again. The last time he camped, he did it alone. The temperature dropped to five degrees Fahrenheit overnight and I had no interest in joining him. I didn’t even […]

Filed Under: Bushcraft & Camping

Camping at Minus 40 Degrees

January 20, 2014

Ice Studs in Baffin Boot

I’m really getting into this whole Winter thing. At this point, I’d confidently say that I prefer it over Summer. For most of my life, I avoided Winter. It got in the way of me riding my bike down to the lake to go swimming. I mean, it did offer those occasional snow days from […]

Filed Under: Bushcraft & Camping

Camping at the Staunton Verona KOA Campground in VA

September 24, 2006

It was about time I saw my family again. My sister, Laurie, planned a camping trip for all of us. My family was to meet at the Staunton Verona KOA Campground in Virginia. Since I was coming from New York and I really hate driving across the George Washington Bridge (I have had enough of […]

Filed Under: Bushcraft & Camping

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