Homemade Survival Equipment

One of the best ways to save money on survival preparations is to invest in homemade survival equipment. An item often overlooked when talking about survival is the walking stick.

Until I spent time in the mountains I used to think a walking stick was an affectation, an item for show. However, once I started hiking in the mountains I soon learned just how helpful a walking stick can be. Not only can it help steady you as you are moving, especially if you are carrying a load on your back.

Here are just a few ideas about the uses of a walking stick:
1. To steady your walk
2. Test the firmness of the ground
3. Push aside brush or limbs
4. To lift or toss away snakes in your path
5. As a defense against wild animals (four and two-legged)

Some of the best woods to use for walking staffs are hickory and ash; the two most recommended. Another wood that was recommended was bamboo, which can also be used to carry items in the hollow core.

Some inventive folks have chosen to make their walking stick out of lightweight pipe, with threaded ends that can be capped. If the staff is created using several 24” lengths with a threaded coupling, the stick can be dismantled. Another advantage of the pipe walking stick is that small survival items like a compass, knife, fishing line, and matches can be carried inside the staff.

For information on other survival gear and supplies, click here.