Improvised Stone Axe/Hammer

To make an improvised stone ax or hammer, first find a stone that has a shape that will allow you to lash it securely to the handle. A stone with a slight hourglass shape works well. If you cannot find a suitably shaped stone, then fashion a groove or channel into the stone by "pecking or knapping," repeatedly rapping the club stone with a smaller hard stone.

Next, find a piece of wood that is the right length for you. A straight-grained hardwood is best. The length of the wood should feel comfortable in relation to the weight of the stone. Finally, lash the stone to the handle using on of the techniques shown in the above figure. The technique you use will depend on the type of handle you choose.

There are many good videos on YouTube that show you how to knapp stone into knives, arrow and spear tips and ax blades if you are willing to take the time to learn.
 
Stay Prepared! Stay Alive!
 
Charlie

The Barrel Cactus

Fishhook Barrel Cactus

Ferocactus wislizeni, the fishhook barrel cactus, also called Arizona barrel cactus, candy barrel cactus, and Southwestern barrel cactus, is a cylindrical barrel-shaped cactus.

In adulthood, fishhook barrel cacti generally leans southward, toward the sun, earning it the nickname "compass barrel cactus." One theory about why this happens is, the afternoon sun is so intense it slows the growth on the exposed side, causing the plant to grow unevenly.

Many people mistakenly believe that the common sight of a tipped over barrel cactus is due to the cactus falling over from water weight. Actually, barrel cacti fall over because they grow towards the sun, just like any other plant. Unlike other plants, however, the barrel cactus usually grows towards the south (to prevent sunburn), hence the name "compass cactus."

Ferocactus wislizeni (fishhook barrel cactus) is the species that contains palatable liquid; other species, particularly the ones with red flowers, contain oxalic acid, which causes nausea and inability to walk. Presumably the liquid could be boiled before drinking to destroy the oxalic acid. An ax or machete is needed to penetrate the tough exterior.

The flowers are pollinated by cactus bees. Mule deer, birds, and javalina eat the fruit. The birds especially like the seeds. The people of the Sonoran desert use the fruit for candy and jelly. The Seri eat the flowers and the O'odham use the fruit, which is sour, as emergency food. Tradition says that the barrel cactus is a source of water for people lost without water in the desert. There are records of the southwestern Native Americans using it for that purpose, but the water of some barrel cactus contains oxalic acid and is likely to cause diarrhea if ingested on an empty stomach.
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California Barrel Cactus

Ferocactus cylindraceus is a species of barrel cactus which is known by several common names, including California barrel cactus and miner's compass. This cactus is usually cylindrical or spherical, with some older specimens forming columns two meters in height. It is covered in long, plentiful spines, which are straight and red when new and become curved and gray as they age. It bears bright yellow flowers with red or yellow centers on the side that faces the sun.

The fleshy, hollow fruits are yellow. This cactus is native to the Mojave and Sonoran Deserts. The fruit is edible. This plant is especially rich in emergency fluid, used as a substitute for water.
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Ferocactus Viridescens

Ferocactus viridescens is NOT a good source of emergency water; the liquid causes upset stomach, diarrhea, aching muscles, and inability to walk. In fact, avoid the tall cactus with red flowers. It can cause temporary paralysis, and has also caused bloody nose, red eyes, and burning urine. The Comcaac said the juice of this cactus is not potable, and that eating the pulp causes headaches. Be careful of any plant located in Comcaac territory.


Stay Prepared! Stay Alive!


Charlie

Shelter Site Safety Tips

The area and the way you approach a potential shelter location is critical in your well being. As you can see in the video the shelter location and stability were acceptable, although the apparent danger of the occupants (rattle snake) were not.

This mine shaft would have been a suitable shelter, but it is being visited by too many dangerous animals.  I noticed coyote and cougar tracks around the entrance to the mine and faint cougar tracks within the mine.  Not something I want to run into during the night when I am trying to sleep.

The snake would have made a suitable protein meal in a survival situation. If I had been in survival mode and been traveling for a couple of days, I would have taken the chance of killing the snake and using the shelter for at least one night.

I would have made a good fire near the entrance to the mine, ensuring that the smoke positioning would not be a problem.  I would also have adequate protection at the entrance by placing a wall of thorny bushes to deter anything trying to get in. I would also have several long spears on hand in case I had to fight something off.

Usually a good fire will keep most larger prey away. It is important that you do not box yourself inside and make sure you have a quick way out if needed.

It is important to know that some mines may have undetectable gases coming from them that can kill you. Usually, these types of mines would be labeled or sealed in some way, but not always.  Mines can be found a hundred miles from civilization, so finding one may not mean you are close to being rescued. Pacing yourself and conserving energy is a must.

When selecting natural caves and overhangs, it is very important that you check the walls and roof for stability. Some stone will crack and slabs will fall loose when heated by a fire, especially when it is frozen. If this is happening you will see slabs of rock on the ground under the overhangs or inside the caves. A good indicator of where not to sleep.

Always check the cracks and holes in the caves or bushes for possible dangers of poisonous critters. Holes can be plugged with heavy stones if they appear deep or long and you can not see inside them.

Some caves will have bats as identified by the strong urine or ammonia smell coming from them. Gases produced by bat guano can kill you. Some caves may have large bee hives. The honey is not worth what the bees will do to you if you are not wearing protective clothing.  Some caves will have both bees and bats. I know this from first hand experience.

When sleeping under trees make sure the branches are sturdy. Remember that in a lighting storm, trees act as lighting rods.

Never put a shelter in a dry river bed. Need I say more on river beds? Never sleep near the banks of rivers or lakes.  Large animals, especially bear, like to drink from them. Moose, when they are in mating season, can get very agitated and will attack at a moments notice. If you are in crocodile country and sleeping near the banks, you may be whats on the menu. These large monsters can be found up to 100 yards or more from the water.

Common sense will usually assist you in locating a suitable shelter location. Knowledge of survival shelters and thinking safety at all times will better your chances of making it out alive.

Stay Prepared! Stay Alive!

Charlie