Multi-use items!

[Sarge47]

Ok, here's the deal, we list anything that has more than one use and, next we list different uses and ideas for said items. Here's what I've got so far.

1.) Trash bags.
2.) Duct tape.
3.) Bandana(s).
4.) 35mm film cans.
5.) Walking staff(s).

Anything I've left off?:confused:

[mbarnatl]

Ok, here's the deal, we list anything that has more than one use and, next we list different uses and ideas for said items. Here's what I've got so far.

1.) Trash bags.
2.) Duct tape.
3.) Bandana(s).
4.) 35mm film cans.
5.) Walking staff(s).

Anything I've left off?:confused:

- zip lock bags
- 550 cord
- snare wire
- aluminum foil
- surgical tubing
- dental floss
- sewing needles
- safety pins
- flexible cable ties
- sewing thread

:D

[MCBushbaby]

Condom
Candle
Watch
Cotton Gauze
Gloves (potholders)
Safety pins



Just about anything can have multiple uses. It's when people bring along a wheeled cooler or inflatable air mattress that the number of uses goes down.

[mbarnatl]

forgot the IMPS-Net - Individual Multi-Purpose Net
- military poncho w/ liner

[Rick]

knife
brass wire
tarp or plastic sheeting
survival blanket (space blanket)
boot laces
signal mirror
socks
your own body oil
cattails (I hope that's legal for your list)

[Sarge47]

Okay, I'm going to be listing uses for one of these items later on today as I got to go back to work right now. Then, hopefully we'll go through the others.:eek:

[Sarge47]

That's right, Good ole' American Trash bags! Months back I asked some of you what uses we could find for these and here are the answers I received:

1.) Use them as "water-proof" boots/gaiters.
2.) Shelter; as a tarp or, using 2 of them & duct tape make a "tube-tent".
3.) Bandages.
4.) Water Container
5.) Fresh water still.
6.) Lashing material.
7.) Sleeping bag
8.) Stuff it with leaves and use it as a blanket or mattress.
9.) Gear bag; good for "wet or soiled" clothing.
10.) Orange bag good for a signaling panel.
11.) Transpiration still.
12.) Kite.
13.) Floating device.
14.) Sail Sled.
15.) Expedient weapon. :eek:(not sure who posted that one.)

Can you think of any other uses? If not we can move on.:cool:

[mbarnatl]

Don't forget that it can be used as a poncho, to carry fresh water, snare, limb lines for set hooks. Also use it for sewing thread for shoes, coats, or tents; or stitches for you in case you get a deep cut. The Backwoodsman magazine Nov./Dec. issue has an article on how to make these with 55 gal trash bags.

[Rick]

Man, you gotta be way out of the box to dream up making stitches out of a trash bag. Did they use the tie handles?

rain cover for bag pack
rain cover for fire wood
moisture barrier for bedroll
bear bag for food
temporary patch w/duct tape for large holes or rips.
winter coat (stuff with natural materials).
Temporary dry bag for canoe (not totally dry)
Can be melted and used as a temporary adhesive
Camp shower
Temporary cover to keep injury dry. (It can even be used to cover sucking chest wounds)

[mbarnatl]

They cut 1" strips of trash bag. Strecthed it and then spin it...repeat until it is a thin string. I have to try this.

[Rick]

That is just too cool. Me too. I would never have thought of that but it makes sense. Thanks!!.

[Sarge47]

We just listed 29 uses for a trash bag, and that ain't even including....holding garbage! Wow, the next one is Duct Tape!:cool:

[Beo]

Everything you can find.

[Stealth]

We just listed 29 uses for a trash bag, and that ain't even including....holding garbage! Wow, the next one is Duct Tape!:cool:

tying up hostages?

[Rick]

Sarge, you gotta be kidding! Duct tape holds the planets in alignment. Here's a bunch:

on the medical side.

http://www.ducttapeguys.com/hmo/index.html

on the Outdoors side.

http://www.ducttapeguys.com/outdoors/index.html

The Duck Tape Guys...

[Rick]

Not all tape is created equal. I use what the military refers to as 100 mph tape (generic term). Generally, the heavier the tape the better. The higher the thread count the better. Look for tape that is waterproof.

rifle sling
rope
repair anything (that isn't liquid)
sunglasses
snow shoes
prevent blisters
prevent the ends of rope from fraying
bandage
remove small splinters or needles

[mbarnatl]

Taping your enemies butt cheaks together. :)

JK... do a google on duct tape and you would not believe how many uses for there is.

[Sarge47]

A few years back "Backpacker Magazine" did an artticle on the many uses for Duct tape. It certainly is a "Modern Marvel". They even used it in "Apollo 13".:cool:

[Sarge47]

Sarge, you gotta be kidding! Duct tape holds the planets in alignment. Here's a bunch:

on the medical side.

http://www.ducttapeguys.com/hmo/index.html

on the Outdoors side.

http://www.ducttapeguys.com/outdoors/index.html

The Duck Tape Guys...

I clicked onto that "outdoors" duct tape site you listed and really enjoyed it, especially the pics of the functional tent and kayak made out of duct tape; thanks Rick!:D

[Sarge47]

OK, we all agree that Duct tape has a lot more uses than we could possibly list here without running Chris out of bandwidth.:rolleyes: Let's move on to Bandanas, one of my favorites as these 1st 3 are something you usually keep around the house.:D

[mbarnatl]

Bandanas uses:
- signal device
- bandage
- collect water from a shallow or hard to reach water source
- pot holder
- for fishing bait
- hat
- anti redneck protection
- face mask... to protect from smoke, cold weather

[Rick]

tourniquet (I'm not a fan of tourniquets)
carry bag (hobo bag)
compress (as opposed to bandage, listed above)
river washrag for bathing or dishes
earmuff/ear cover
make shift sling
rip into strips to tie items together

[mbarnatl]

What's next Sarge? Don't let this thread go incomplete.

[Sarge47]

Just thinkin' the same thing. 35mm film "cans".:cool:

[trax]

If you're out in winter and you have a small tarp and you're using snowshoes, you can wrap the tarp around a snowshoe and it will make a good enough shovel to clear snow out from where you're going to build your shelter. It's kind of awkward but it works

35 mm film cans are good for thousands of things. Metal cigaret cases too, handy little carry packages they are.

[mbarnatl]

Think the uses for that is like duck tape. Tons of them. Holding fuel tabs, bobbin for fishing, misc. item for survival kit, just to name a few.

[Rick]

Jeese, just did that today. Stuffed two of 'em with cotton balls soaked in petroleum jelly.
medicine keeper
keeping ID/Medical Info Dry. Just roll it up, insert, label outside.
Use a white and a black one for salt and pepper shakers (wilderness only goes so far, okay?)
Owl caller
store film (duh)
store matches

[Sarge47]

Use a white and a black one for salt and pepper shakers

I have a set of plastic Salt & Pepper tops that fit onto the top of the Black plastic 35mm cans to make salt and pepper shakers out of. Thank Colin Fletcher for that one.:cool:

[Sarge47]

Are you ready? Walking Staff!:cool:

[Rick]

Hmmm. I'll assume one you take as opposed to one you pick up in the wild.

fishing pole
hobo pack carrier
use to wrap 550 cord around
measuring stick to test the depth of water or snow
long handle to help some one up a bank
self defense
hornet nest poker (just checking to see if you're paying attention).

[Sarge47]

Hmmm. I'll assume one you take as opposed to one you pick up in the wild. (Sarge) Either one.

fishing pole
hobo pack carrier
use to wrap 550 cord around
measuring stick to test the depth of water or snow
long handle to help some one up a bank
self defense
hornet nest poker (just checking to see if you're paying attention).

Another one is using it as a "lodge pole for a tarp to make a shelter.:cool:

[Rick]

Are we still talking about walking staffs? I ain't using my walking staff for toilet paper. No sir, no way. Look like my brother's stupid old poodle draggin' its but on the floor. I ain't never.

[Sarge47]

OK gang, here it is: Zip-Lock bags...GO!:cool:

[Rick]

Gold fish...no. sorry.

Water carrier
Water proofer - maps, etc.
Hat for rain - 1 gal size. For some of you 5 gal size.:D
wound cover - Tape in place
first aid kit carrier
expedient shoes - tape in place
insulation - partially inflate with air
float - life preserver sort of

[Ole WV Coot]

I always keep an extra load(5 rounds) in a couple of 35mm cans for my Smith Mod 60 in the truck console. Handy and better than an obvious speedloader.

[MCBushbaby]

Reviving the handkerchief: reusable *** rag and overheating prevention by wrapping wet around your neck (wet version of redneck preventer). :)

zip lock bags, specifically the freezer-rated, can be used with dehydrated food for "just add hot water" cooking.

[mbarnatl]

What's next?

[Sarge47]

Let's go with 550 cord!:cool:

[Rick]

Oh happy day! 550 cord.

general cordage (duh)
fishing line
boot laces
thread
bracelets (braiding)
bear bag rope
shelter tie down
clothesline
firebow cord
snare
trip wire
expedient belt
loops for equipment

[Ole WV Coot]

How about a walking stick or staff? Mine is wrapped with cord at the point I hold it. Besides the obvious I kinda check for snakes going thru high grass & weeds. Most importantly for me I have mine cut at the exact length where I place the tip against my left foot and angle it out for a nice steady rest for my pistol. I am left handed that's why the tip is against the left foot. The tip is protected with a washer and a nice big wood screw. A stick, cane or staff makes a great offensive or defensive weapon and doesn't look threatening to two legged critters.

[Sarge47]

How about a walking stick or staff? Mine is wrapped with cord at the point I hold it. Besides the obvious I kinda check for snakes going thru high grass & weeds. Most importantly for me I have mine cut at the exact length where I place the tip against my left foot and angle it out for a nice steady rest for my pistol. I am left handed that's why the tip is against the left foot. The tip is protected with a washer and a nice big wood screw. A stick, cane or staff makes a great offensive or defensive weapon and doesn't look threatening to two legged critters.

We had the walking staff a bit earlier on, but it doesn't hurt to add to things, that's a great idea!:cool:

[sh4d0wm4573ri7]

although for years duct tape ruled and aint knockin it a bit, however there's a new kid in town his name is gorilla tape and my fellow outdoorsmen there is not much of a comparison gorilla tape is the new rule in my book checkit out see for yourself/.

[Gray Wolf]

I posted tis in another thread, but it also belongs here.

Uses for the P38

This list of P-38 uses was compiled by Steve Wilson, MSG Proponent NCO, Dept. of the Army Office of the Chief of Chaplains, The Pentagon. It is posted at the Ft. Bliss Air Defense Artillery Museum among other places:

1. Can Opener
2. Seam Ripper
3. Screwdriver
4. Clean Fingernails
5. Cut Fishing Line
6. Open Paint Cans
7. Window Scraper
8. Scrape Around Floor Corners
9. Digging
10. Clean Out Groove on Tupperware lids
11. Reach in and Clean Out Small Cracks
12. Scrape Around Edge of Boots
13. Bottle Opener
14. Gut Fish (in the field)
15. Scale Fish (in the field)
16. Test for 'Doneness' When Baking on a Camp Fire
17. Prying Items
18. Strip Wire
19. Scrape Pans in the Field
20. Lift Key on Flip Top Cans
21. Chisel
22. Barter
23. Marking Tool
24. Deflating Tires
25. Clean Sole of Boot/Shoe
26. Pick Teeth
27. Measurement
28. Striking Flint
29. Stirring Coffee
30. Puncturing Plastic Coating
31. Knocking on Doors
32. Morse Code
33. Box Cutter
34. Opening Letters
35. Write Emergency Messages
36. Scratch an Itch
37. Save as a Souvenir
38. Rip Off Rank for On-the-Spot Promotions
39. Bee sting removal tool (scrape off w/ blade)
40. Sharpen stick or pencil

[Sarge47]

I posted tis in another thread, but it also belongs here.

Uses for the P38

This list of P-38 uses was compiled by Steve Wilson, MSG Proponent NCO, Dept. of the Army Office of the Chief of Chaplains, The Pentagon. It is posted at the Ft. Bliss Air Defense Artillery Museum among other places:

1. Can Opener
2. Seam Ripper
3. Screwdriver
4. Clean Fingernails
5. Cut Fishing Line
6. Open Paint Cans
7. Window Scraper
8. Scrape Around Floor Corners
9. Digging
10. Clean Out Groove on Tupperware lids
11. Reach in and Clean Out Small Cracks
12. Scrape Around Edge of Boots
13. Bottle Opener
14. Gut Fish (in the field)
15. Scale Fish (in the field)
16. Test for 'Doneness' When Baking on a Camp Fire
17. Prying Items
18. Strip Wire
19. Scrape Pans in the Field
20. Lift Key on Flip Top Cans
21. Chisel
22. Barter
23. Marking Tool
24. Deflating Tires
25. Clean Sole of Boot/Shoe
26. Pick Teeth
27. Measurement
28. Striking Flint
29. Stirring Coffee
30. Puncturing Plastic Coating
31. Knocking on Doors
32. Morse Code
33. Box Cutter
34. Opening Letters
35. Write Emergency Messages
36. Scratch an Itch
37. Save as a Souvenir
38. Rip Off Rank for On-the-Spot Promotions
39. Bee sting removal tool (scrape off w/ blade)
40. Sharpen stick or pencil

Holy Crap!!!!!!!!!! Thanks Grey Wolf! Great list!:D

[Sarge47]

OK gang, it's "snare wire"!:cool:

[Tony uk]

1.Traping
2.The end of a small piece can be ground on a stone untill its like a needel and on the other end you need to make a loop, put some thread through and then push the loop closed Very Flat useing oliers (I uses a small hammer or rock to do this)

Thats just the VERY tip of the iceberg

[mbarnatl]

What is next?

[Sarge47]

I was hoping for more on "snare wire" but next is aluminum foil.:cool:

[mbarnatl]

@Sarge: I was too. My mind went blank on uses for snare wire.

[Rick]

Aluminum Foil:

Boil water
signal
make char cloth
cook in
leave your track in the truck (Cody's advice)
Use as scrubber for cookware
Make a funnel to fill your water bottle
tighten lose battery springs in electronics (Yeah, my GPS and your cell phone)
to make that funky feeling when you bite down on it between two fillings. (shiver)

[mbarnatl]

Aluminum Foil:

- cook in
- make a bowl
- make a cup
- fire deflector
- making fishing lures

[mbarnatl]

Also can make a wind screen for a stove. As well serve as a lid.

[Tony uk]

It can be used to keep tinder dry by rapping the tinder in layers of it

[AdventureDoc]

Just wanted to introduce myself and say how much I am enjoying the thread. I loved the tip on stitches from garbage bags! Thanks!

[Rick]

Yeah. It kept us in stiches, too.

Pinhole glasses. Just fashion the foil into a glasses shape and poke pinholes in the "lenses".

[nell67]

Yeah. It kept us in stiches, too.

Pinhole glasses. Just fashion the foil into a glasses shape and poke pinholes in the "lenses".
those are glasses Rick???LMAO!

[Rick]

Oh, sure. Then don't ask to borrow mine when you're crying, "My eyes hurt from the glare. I'm goin' snow blind. I can't see. Yadi yadi yadi."

[AdventureDoc]

I saw an interesting way of using webbing (climbing type) to make a set of pin point snow glasses. Webbing is a pretty common item and I keep finding uses for it. Basically tie it like a bandanna around the eyes with two (precut) slits for seeing. I tried it and I really couldn't see too well. But, it would be better than nothing.

Oh, for the "snare wire" category...it can be used to buddy tape fingers together and makes a pretty good tool for removal of debris in skin (splinters, rocks, cactus, etc.) I have also seen a small bit of snare wire hold a broken bike chain together, enought to ride it out of the desert, saving a night out and long walk.

[Sarge47]

I can't tell you how much I appreciate someone such as yourself on board Doc! We've been needing Professionals such as yourself for quite sometime! Thank you so much!!!:):D:cool:

[Sarge47]

This one should be right up Doc's alley: Surgical Tubing!:cool:

[canid]

bands for projectile weopons, tourniquet, drinking/suctioning/syphoning tubing, elastic tiedowns for tensioning, trap manufacture

[AdventureDoc]

I remember using surgical tubing to carry water underpressure, as a kid. We'd take a ball point pin, with the ink cartridge out, and place one end into the tubing and the other to a faucet. It would fill like a sausage, with the water. Lots of fun to squirt other kids with.

Canid had a lot of great tips, tourniquets and drinking tubes are my two most favorite uses. Along the lines of surgical tubing...rubber gloves:

For a cut finger or to do some digging under the skin, where there might be blood, you can cut off one finger of the glove and the tip of this finger before placing on the person's finger. Then roll the latex "condom" down the finger, so that it produces a tourniquet effect at the finger's base, making a bloodless field.

A seal/barrier device can be made by placing the glove and middle finger into the patient's mouth, with a slit cut into the bottom of the middle finger of the glove. This acts as a "one way device" for preventing fluid exchange when the rescuer breathes into the part of the glove that the hand normally goes into.

Plus, a tourniquet and a few of the things mentioned above, for surgical tubing. Great thread, by the way!

Happy new year!

[Rick]

Cool ideas AD. Two more tricks I learned today. Pretty good for old dog. By the way, I like the avatar. Doh!

[Sarge47]

OK, I know that there's some of you who don't care for the Military MREs, but what can you find in the MRE package that helps in a Survival situation BESIDES the obvious Food & drink?:confused:

[Rick]

Okay. I'll start.

Plastic bags for carrying water.
cardboard for fire
the flameless heater for heat
You can capture the hydrogen produced by the heater for a homemade bomb
sugar can be used for fire
creamer can be used for fire
If you carry permanganate you can mix it with the sugar. Kaboom!
Matches for fire
Sharpen one end of the spoon for expedient weapon
Hot sauce = pepper spray

[Sarge47]

I figured you'd be up to it! Here's something I noticed! 1st, the book of matches are moisture resistant, as they resist dampness. 2nd there is a small pack of toilet paper/paper toweling that would make a good fire starter. Also the newer MREs contain a clear plastic bag for mixing hot drinks, which means they are strong and would make a good water carrier. Finally, some of them have a "wet-wipe" which would be good for cleaning small wounds. MREs, they're not just for "breakfast" any more!:cool:

[AdventureDoc]

Very good info Rick! Thanks! I had not thought of many of those. You mentioned permanganate and I have heard of this for a fire starter, antibiotic, water purifier. Where does one buy this? Anybody got a source?

Thanks!

[Sarge47]

Very good info Rick! Thanks! I had not thought of many of those. You mentioned permanganate and I have heard of this for a fire starter, antibiotic, water purifier. Where does one buy this? Anybody got a source?

Thanks!

I found it on e-bay Doc!:cool:

[AdventureDoc]

E-bay!?! That's what I get for thinking too much and looking in obscure shops! An embarassed thank-you!

[mbarnatl]

What's next?

[Sarge47]

Dental Floss is next!:rolleyes:

[mbarnatl]

- as thread for sewing
- stitching a wound
- fishing line
- clean teeth
- emergency shoelaces, use several laid together.

[Sarge47]

We had a long thread on this awhile back, that's where i got the info. Here's the post address:

http://www.wilderness-survival.net/forums/showthread.php?t=491

Check it out!:cool:

[Tony uk]

British MREs have a range card on there side. You can use the puri tabs to help with cuts.

[sh4d0wm4573ri7]

lashing
tent/tarp tiedown
make a net
clothes line
make cord for bow n drill
shelter construction
snares

[Rick]

fire starter
snowshoe bindings
temporarily replace a lost screw in eyeglasses
expedient snow glasses (with foil or cardboard)

[Rick]

Hmmm. You always seem to get me thinking, Tony. That's a dangerous thing. The Tobasco sauce contains red peppers, vinegar and salt. Peppers contain capsaicinoids, which the plant uses to protect itself against bacteria, fungi, and viruses. Soooo, could you use a splash of tobasco on a cut as a field expedient antibiotic? That burns like heck just thinking about it but if it saves an infection?!......

[mbarnatl]

@Sarge: You need to add this to the multi-use thread.

[Tony uk]

Hmmm. You always seem to get me thinking, Tony. That's a dangerous thing. The Tobasco sauce contains red peppers, vinegar and salt. Peppers contain capsaicinoids, which the plant uses to protect itself against bacteria, fungi, and viruses. Soooo, could you use a splash of tobasco on a cut as a field expedient antibiotic? That burns like heck just thinking about it but if it saves an infection?!......

Honey has anti-bacterial properties, if you get a pack with honey in it you could try that

read This Rick

http://www.tearsofjoysauces.com/store/catalog/pepper_facts.html

Peppers In Medicine
This is a fascinating aspect of the chile pepper. There are several uses for capsaicin in the field of medicine--some on the market and some in the research stages. Pain relief, especially for arthritis and joint pain, is the most common usage right now. Many creams for pain relief now contain capsaicin. The depletion of substance P in the nerves help to reduce nagging pain. Another medical use, amazingly enough, is in the treatment of ulcers. Since the discovery of the bacteria, Helicobacter pylori, as the primary cause of ulcers, antibiotics have been the common treatment. Chile peppers have natural antibiotic properties. As well, they stimulate the mucosa of the stomach. Quite a switch from the old ideas of avoiding spicy foods!

[Rick]

Aha! Who'd a thunk it? Great link and good idea on the honey. I'll bet that wouldn't sting nearly as bad as the tobasco.

[Tony uk]

Honey is great for burns and for throat/bacterial infections

Another great link

http://www.gomestic.com/Homemaking/15-Wonderful-Uses-for-Tea.54172

Tea is included in MREs and seems to be very usefull

[Rick]

Adventure Doc - We have a couple of threads on permanganate. Mostly glycerin and permanganate to start fires. Just in case, it's also referred to as Condy's Crystals.

http://www.wilderness-survival.net/forums/showthread.php?t=491&highlight=permanganate

http://www.wilderness-survival.net/forums/showthread.php?t=784&highlight=permanganate

As for a source, depending on how much you want, try:

http://www.2spi.com/catalog/chem/chem2a5.shtml

http://www.colonialscientific.com/OScatalog/index.php?cPath=878_18934_59441_69230

[Sarge47]

On History Channel's "Mail Call", R. Lee Ermey pointed out that, in Viet Nam, soldiers would place a drop of tobassco sauce in the corners of their eyes to keep from falling asleep during guard duty! I suppose, if you had to keep from falling asleep for some reason you could do the same.:cool:

[Sarge47]

Okay, here's what I got for MREs:

Plastic bags for carrying water.
Cardboard for fires.
Capture hydrogen gasses for homade bomb. (emergency fishing?)
Sugar & creamer used for fire.
Permanganate could be added to the sugar.
Damp-resistant matches.
Spoon sharpened for expediant weapon.
tobassco sauce=pepper spray.
toilet paper/towling used as emergency tinder.
wet-wipe used to clean wounds.

The next item is "sewing needle".:cool:

[Rick]

sewing (duh)
surgical tool (splinters, subungual hematoma)
compass needle (if magnetized)
awl (poke holes in cardboard or foil for expedient glasses)

[Rick]

I'm sure all the screaming from the pain would be enough to keep you awake.

[Tony uk]

The knowledge that the veit army is out there would be enough to keep me awake out of sheer fear of wakeing up in some tunnel

[Gray Wolf]

Flash back...

Aluminum Foil: replace low amp fuse.

Surgical Tubing: tracheotomy, artificial insemination, enema...

[Rick]

Use a .22 to replace the fuse and you won't have to worry about artificial insemination or an enema.

[Gray Wolf]

Use a .22 to replace the fuse and you won't have to worry about artificial insemination or an enema.

Then the tracheotomy might come in handy...

[mbarnatl]

What's next?

[AdventureDoc]

I just got my new bracelets from http://www.safezonellc.com/bracelets.html and we are sitting here trying to think of our own uses for 550 cord.

Nobody can use "noose to hang yourself for being lost" because there is a compass on the bracelet. Anyway, maybe a noose to hang the navigator?

Shelter system with a poncho
binding knife to spear/weapons craft
rigging snares and dead falls
tourniquet
tie down for clothing
Stitching for clothing

Come on...I am not too good at this and I've got a few. You guys should be able to fill a hard drive with uses!

[Sarge47]

I just got my new bracelets from http://www.safezonellc.com/bracelets.html and we are sitting here trying to think of our own uses for 550 cord.

Nobody can use "noose to hang yourself for being lost" because there is a compass on the bracelet. Anyway, maybe a noose to hang the navigator?

Shelter system with a poncho
binding knife to spear/weapons craft
rigging snares and dead falls
tourniquet
tie down for clothing
Stitching for clothing

Come on...I am not too good at this and I've got a few. You guys should be able to fill a hard drive with uses!
Yes we have Doc, starting on page 2 of THIS thread, post # 38. Then check this thread out here:

http://www.wilderness-survival.net/forums/showthread.php?t=45

We gotta get this stuff organized!:rolleyes:

[AdventureDoc]

My bad! Sorry everyone...I thought I knew a little too much about using paracord, almost like I'd read something recently about it. I thought I was good. Nope, just a parrot from a few days ago. Sorry gang! How about uses for a p-38 can opener? Oh, wait....:)

[mbarnatl]

For all of those just joining in on this thread, a recap of what we have covered so far:

- trash bags
- duct tape
- bandannas
- 35 mm film containers
- walking staff
- zip-lock bags
- 550 cord
- P38 can opener
- snare wire
- aluminum foil
- surgical tubing
- MRE's
- dental floss


Dental floss is the last item for uses we were coming up with. If you go to the first page of this thread... postings 1-5 is the basic list that we are covering. Sarge is calling out the items as we go to cause less confusion, also that the information can be collected in an easy orderly fashion. If you have a use for an item that we already covered and not posted it... please post it. Hopefully later Sarge will be able to post a complete list on a sticky at the top of the forum.:)

[mbarnatl]

What's next Sarge?

[Rick]

A couple of suggestions: safety pins, candles, mirror, poncho.

I'm sitting here reading Great Quotes from Great People and ran across one from Teddy Roosevelt that fits this forum to a T.

"Do what you can, with what you have, where you are."

[Last Mohican]

Water filters. Especially when used with charcoal.

[Sarge47]

A couple of suggestions: safety pins, candles, mirror, poncho.

The next one on the list is safety pins!:rolleyes:

[AdventureDoc]

OK, I will try a few, but I am sure there are more to add:

Repair of clothing

Making a sling out a t-shirt. Take the bottom of the t-shirt, when worn and bring it up over the injured upper limb (crossed in front of the chest), and safety pin it to the chest of the t-shirt. Instant arm sling!

Fish hook--I tried this and didn't get anything! But, I can use my fish finder, quantum reel, lucky pole and dynamite and still get skunked! I have heard of a friend of a friend who has gotten fish this way.

Pinning the tongue to the cheeks to keep an airway open. This is a "last chance" fix for maintaining an airway with an unconscious patient. When a person is unconscious, the tongue naturally wants to fall towards gravity...back of the throat and occlude the ariway. Literally pierce the tongue, on both sides, with the safety pins and pierce the cheeks through. Close the pins and the tongue is mechanically kept from occluding the ariway. Not the best, but better than nothing.

Foreign body removal from the skin, like tweezers

improvised compass on a leaf/pool of water/magnetized with silk cloth

sutures to hold large laceration closed

Can be heated with flame to puncture a fingernail and evacuate a "sububngal hematoma". Ever hit your finger with a hammer and had the blood accumulate under the nail, forming a reddish/blue/black, with a lot of pain? Take a needle, heat it with flame and you can burrow through the nail to release the accumulated blood and source of pain. You are the patient's best friend, that day!

Blister popper

OK, I am done for now...I am anxious to hear some more!

[Sarge47]

Dr. Ron Hood showed how to tie 3 of them together, back-to-back-to-back to make some sort of treble hook for catching fish, frogs, or birds!:cool:

[Rick]

Pinning the tongue to the cheeks to keep an airway open. This is a "last chance" fix for maintaining an airway with an unconscious patient.
Ow! Oh, jees. Ouch! Ow! Oh, man. That hurts just reading it!

Equipment repair
mend a shoe lace
Repair eyeglass hinge (depending on diameter)
awl (same as needle) for expedient snow glasses

[Sarge47]

Ow! Oh, jees. Ouch! Ow! Oh, man. That hurts just reading it!

Equipment repair
mend a shoe lace
Repair eyeglass hinge (depending on diameter)
awl (same as needle) for expedient snow glasses

Can you use them to pin someone's mouth shut?:rolleyes:

[Rick]

Mmmm. mmmmmm. mmmmm!;)

[Sarge47]

Mmmm. mmmmmm. mmmmm!;)

Argh! He got me with that one!:D

[AdventureDoc]

Mmmm. mmmmmm. mmmmm!;)

Even I laughed at this one!

[Rick]

Easy for you to say. I'm still sitting here feeling my tongue and cheek.

[nell67]

Ok Rick,you even got a snicker out of me for that one!:cool:

[Sarge47]

Easy for you to say. I'm still sitting here feeling my tongue and cheek.
"Pin" it on me why don't you?:rolleyes:

[mbarnatl]

Pinning the tongue to the cheeks to keep an airway open. This is a "last chance" fix for maintaining an airway with an unconscious patient. When a person is unconscious, the tongue naturally wants to fall towards gravity...back of the throat and occlude the ariway. Literally pierce the tongue, on both sides, with the safety pins and pierce the cheeks through. Close the pins and the tongue is mechanically kept from occluding the ariway. Not the best, but better than nothing.



AHHH CRAP!!!!! That is too much detail.

[Rick]

Ow, jees. Ouch. Oh, crap! Just when I had forgotten about it you dredged it back up. Now I'm feelin' my tongue again! Phanks!

[AdventureDoc]

OK, I am a "younger guy" 32 y/o and I actually have a tongue piercing. Isn't that ironic? Yes...it hurt really bad. Yes...my mom knows about it and is pissed, still 15 years after I got it. No...I don't regret it :)

[Tony uk]

Pinning the tongue to the cheeks to keep an airway open. This is a "last chance" fix for maintaining an airway with an unconscious patient. When a person is unconscious, the tongue naturally wants to fall towards gravity...back of the throat and occlude the ariway. Literally pierce the tongue, on both sides, with the safety pins and pierce the cheeks through. Close the pins and the tongue is mechanically kept from occluding the ariway. Not the best, but better than nothing.


I hope the poor guy doesnt wake up any time soon

[mbarnatl]

Knowing my luck I would wake up the moment the pin went through the tongue and cheek... and I wouldn't be able to scream.

[mbarnatl]

OK.... let's see the Man vs Wild dude do this in his show!:D

[Rick]

OK, I am a "younger guy" 32 y/o and I actually have a tongue piercing. Isn't that ironic? Yes...it hurt really bad. Yes...my mom knows about it and is pissed, still 15 years after I got it. No...I don't regret it

You didn't explain the why. It's doesn't matter. I wouldn't understand anyway. It's a bit like tatoos (just alienated more members). You go and spend good money for someone to inflict pain. You give me 5 bucks and a baseball bat. I'll do it a lot cheaper and we'll both have fun!!!

[Rick]

mbarnatl - "I have to rely on my SAS training before sliding down this 300 foot shale cliff. Now, there's every possibility that I could be knocked unconscious so to prevent choking on my tongue, I'm going to pin it to my cheek."

Now, that show I'd watch!

[Tony uk]

You didn't explain the why. It's doesn't matter. I wouldn't understand anyway. It's a bit like tatoos (just alienated more members). You go and spend good money for someone to inflict pain. You give me 5 bucks and a baseball bat. I'll do it a lot cheaper and we'll both have fun!!!

Baseball bat ??? Pift

bend there thumb into wards itseld to inflict pain

Then twist there ligaments

I do it all for £1 :D

[Rick]

We've highjacked another thread. Ahem. Safety pins.

Field expedient diaper (for babies you chowder heads)
to close your pant legs to keep out snow. (assuming you don't have velcro).
hook a dog tag back to the dog's collar.
rheostat on crystal radio

[Tony uk]

We've highjacked another thread. Ahem. Safety pins.

Field expedient diaper (for babies you chowder heads)
to close your pant legs to keep out snow. (assuming you don't have velcro).
hook a dog tag back to the dog's collar.
rheostat on crystal radio

Its a full time job hijacking threds

To re-join split ends of rope (Paracord not the think stuff)

[mbarnatl]

What's next?

[canid]

for sh!@s and giggles: tree bark.

[Rick]

I'm just going to list some in general.

Dyes (many)
quinine (cinchona tree. Did you know quinine gives Canada Dry it's bitter flavor?)
aspirin (willow bark)
tannin (many)
teas,poultices,laxatives (many)
food (many)
fuel (several)

[canid]

very general

[Rick]

How definitive do you want? The instructions were "tree bark".;)

[warman87]

ziplock/duck tape and a bandanna makes a handy pillow:)

[Assassin Pilot]

well u can always use it as a snare-like thing. Just place some bait onto the middle of a grid / mat of duct tape, and watch. the animal that tries to get the food will become stuck

or you could use it to make a hammock, its been done before ::)

[CTracker]

Ok, you guys are the experts, but after 7 pages I was surprised not to see super glue mentioned. Wasn't it considered a staple for first aid kits?

I forget where I read it, but it was suggested to pack some 'party candles' since their supposed to re-light themselves when trying to make a fire under less than optimal conditions. I thought they would probably melt and just form a puddle in your gear. Haven't tried it, but was intrigued with the thought.

I suspect I might be watching to much tv and not enough reading the latest material available in print. :o

[Rick]

If you are going to carry super glue then make sure it is medical super glue. Most cyanoacrylate glues not designed specifically for medical use are formulated from methyl-2-cyanoacrylate, since it produces the strongest bond. It can irritate the skin and create heat during polymerization.

Adventure Doc - What are your thoughts on cleaning wounds where commercial super glue has been used?

I don't carry the party candles you mention but do carry tea candles as a backup.

[CTracker]

If you are going to carry super glue then make sure it is medical super glue. Most cyanoacrylate glues not designed specifically for medical use are formulated from methyl-2-cyanoacrylate, since it produces the strongest bond. It can irritate the skin and create heat during polymerization.

Thanks. That was my next question. :)

[bulrush]

5 gallon buckets:
- Use as step stool
- Seat
- Table (if seated on floor)
- Haul water
- Store goods (5g buckets are mouse proof)
- Haul weeds to refuse pile
- Haul tools to worksite
- Store electric cord, rope, etc.

Tree bark:
- Can be used as tinder
- Sew into bowl, perhaps water proof edges with pitch
- Can hold a coal when moving campsite

[Lost Lebowski]

I spend 75+ days/yr in the back country and have found...

Those Galvanized Eyelet screws from HD (two pieces weigh like 3 oz) are great for securing a cord between two trees this can be used to...

Build a Leanto or A-frame shelter using a tarp or trash bag
Drying wet gear
Hanging a lantern or candle
Tying of the end of a line for hanging food bags
Hanging my dromedary or camelback
Guying out a tent
Rigging traps
Rigging trip lines to KILL CHARLIE!

Enjoy

[Rick]

Why not just tie your cord around the trees? That doesn't injure the tree and it's one less item to carry.

[Beo]

Cause he knows all.

[Lost Lebowski]

Rick ur right cord of itself is very useful and capable of multitasking. I find those little eyelets just as simple and have multiple uses though. They absolutely do not harm the tree however. Just as tapping a tree for syrup causes no harm.

"Civil disobedience is the highest form of protest"

[Lost Lebowski]

In two days I have gotten like 3 posts/messages about toning it down or "know it all" All I said was eyelet hooks are useful! I also gave a post advocating Tom Browns books, and all I said was that anyone serious about gettign into wilderness survival should read them. That's controversial? I also gave my research findings on blade metallurgy ( i am a scientist) "As far as knowing it all". Humans really know very little, myself included.What's with all the political correctness? I refuse to be a domesticated human. Yes I have opinions and they are only mine, though some may agree. But I promise they are educated and vetted opinions. Example: Rambo type survival knives are a joke!

"Live Free or Die"

[mbarnatl]

Ok, next one....flexible cable ties? What can they be used for?

[nell67]

In two days I have gotten like 3 posts/messages about toning it down or "know it all" All I said was eyelet hooks are useful! I also gave a post advocating Tom Browns books, and all I said was that anyone serious about gettign into wilderness survival should read them. That's controversial? I also gave my research findings on blade metallurgy ( i am a scientist) "As far as knowing it all". Humans really know very little, myself included.What's with all the political correctness? I refuse to be a domesticated human. Yes I have opinions and they are only mine, though some may agree. But I promise they are educated and vetted opinions. Example: Rambo type survival knives are a joke!

"Live Free or Die"

How about a little less of the attitude,then we can ALL get along?

[Rick]

Cable Ties

Gear repair
Attach items to pack or belt
Loop handle for items such as flashlight
Expedient shoe lace (smaller size, pull through top eyelets)
Expedient pant or shirt button (same as shoelace)
Trouser blouser (especially in tick country)

[mbarnatl]

Can we create a "attitude" thread elsewhere and not discuss it here? I would like to see this thread stay as an information thread for multi-use items.

Where the heck is Sarge? :confused:

What did you do to him Rick?:D:eek:

[Rick]

It's being handled.

[mbarnatl]

Thank you!

[nell67]

Can we create a "attitude" thread elsewhere and not discuss it here? I would like to see this thread stay as an information thread for multi-use items.

Where the heck is Sarge? :confused:

What did you do to him Rick?:D:eek:
I apologize mbarnatl

[Rick]

Cable ties can be sharp as heck once you cut them. We used tons of them in my job and I've poked myself sooooo many times. I wonder if a short section could be cut and inserted into the end of spear for fishing or even an arrow or dart? If cut to a point they will puncture skin.

[kabvorka]

There are Sooo many things that can be used for multiple purposes.. Whats important is keeping in mind the rules of improvisation... anyone remember all of them?

[mbarnatl]

Cable ties can be sharp as heck once you cut them. We used tons of them in my job and I've poked myself sooooo many times. I wonder if a short section could be cut and inserted into the end of spear for fishing or even an arrow or dart? If cut to a point they will puncture skin.

I work with lots of them... I now that you can cut human skin with them. My arms and hands have plenty of scars from sharp tie wraps.

[mbarnatl]

There are Sooo many things that can be used for multiple purposes.. Whats important is keeping in mind the rules of improvisation... anyone remember all of them?

1. Determine your need.
2. Inventory your available man-made and natural materials.
3. Consider the different ways you might meet your need.
4. Pick the one that best utilizes your time, energy, and materials.
5. Proceed with the plan, ensuring that the final product is safe and durable.

[Sam]

Cable ties can be sharp as heck once you cut them. We used tons of them in my job and I've poked myself sooooo many times. I wonder if a short section could be cut and inserted into the end of spear for fishing or even an arrow or dart? If cut to a point they will puncture skin.

Some cable ties have a plastic 'tooth' that locks the tie. If you have a multi-tool or SAK you can sometimes push it back and open the tie. Not every time thing, but worth a try.

[crashdive123]

Cable ties - lashing for shelter building (save your cordage)

[Lost Lebowski]

I just want to say I am sorry if I rubbed anyone the wrong way in earlier posts. I'm pretty laid back and easy going so I guess I need to be more careful how I say things some times and I could certainly stand to be less opinionated so Mea Culpa. I've forgotten it, I hope everyone else can too. Hope this gives us all chuckle I have no idea how I came up with this but.

Top Ten Off-Lable Uses For Comdoms...
1. just in case u run into the tree dwelling hippy gilrs from the movie "without a paddle" whilst following a blood trail after shooting bambi!
2. field expedient touriquet
3. smuggling
4. back up waterbaloon for fighting cabin fever or wicked witches
5. forgot to bring Rick's cable ties (dont try cable ties for #1 they don't work I know! LOL)
6. cache pemmican in it ( for this one dont use for #1 on list before hand! )
7. make a sling shot with it ( again could get ugly if used for #1 first)
8. finger puppet! Again with the cabin fever and avoid 1. on list before hand!
9. Back up scrunchy for those tree dwellers pony tails
10. Covering your rifle barrel when it rains. Possible it's the best real use but also a metaphor for the intended pun! "This is my rifle this is my gun" either way you're covered!

Who can think of others?

(Yeah I know it's after 3 here but I'm on a 24hr ER shift)

[crashdive123]

I just want to say I am sorry if I rubbed anyone the wrong way in earlier posts. I'm pretty laid back and easy going so I guess I need to be more careful how I say things some times and I could certainly stand to be less opinionated so Mea Culpa. I've forgotten it, I hope everyone else can too. Hope this gives us all chuckle I have no idea how I came up with this but.

Lost: all that people were meaning when calling you a newbie, was new to this forum. Because of the joys and annonymity (sp?) of the internet we don't know who you are or what experience you have. For all we know you could be Cody Lundin or a 14 year old brain surgeon. I know it's been said before, but there is an introductions section on the forum where you can tell the rest of us a little about yourself. Kind of helps us know where you're coming from. Anyway .... welcome.

[Lost Lebowski]

Thanks Crash. How do I get to introductions? I did fill in some info on my profile yesterday.. Hope that helps. I'm a 36 y/o former MP in maine. I am a biologist and have a medical degree. I now practice internal and er medicine and generally take 4-6 long backpacking trips a year as well as enjoying running, biking, paddling, skiing, fishing, hunting, and anything else in the woods or on the sea.

[crashdive123]

Thanks. "Introductions" is a section labled under "General". Here's a link.
http://www.wilderness-survival.net/forums/forumdisplay.php?f=14

[mbarnatl]

ok... next one... uses for sewing thread!

[Rick]

Thread (too easy)
sutures
dental floss (hygiene in the bush!)
lashing (loop X ?)
tie off a water bag
expedient small game snare (dependent of type of thread)
replacement for lost eyeglass screw

[crashdive123]

fishing line
trip line
using with a stick for splint

[2pinesacres]

Here's a duct tape related story: this weekend while my 3 year old grandson was here making a tower with blocks, he advised me to get the duct tape to hold them together when it kept falling down! Conditioned by his poppa--you betcha!!!:)
I read an extreme survival article which showed a fellow using a plastic bag (one of the oversized leaf bags) as a sleeping bag stuffed with newspapers for extra warmth.
Recycling at its best--garbage bag and newspapers!!:)

[Rick]

You gotta love a kid that knows how to use duct tape!

[Tony uk]

You gotta love a kid that knows how to use duct tape!

You can fix anything with duct tape and a hammer.

[GVan]

You was one item with several uses for it? Hummmm,

DENTALFLOSS

tooth care
sewing thread
sutures
fishing line
guide line (Spelunking)
tiedown line
boot laces
snares
garroting line
clothes line
boundry marker


I'm sure that there are several other purposes, but I can't think of any more at this point.

[GVan]

You can fix anything with duct tape and a hammer.

I met an old woman in southern California with a dress made from duct tape.

I use to ha a wallet of duct tape.

Truly one of God's better creations.

[mbarnatl]

OK... next one.... uses for candles.

[Rick]

Candles

light
heat
cooking or warming food/water
wax for lubrication (rub the candle on the item)
water proofing a seam that leaks
an improvised adhesive

[crashdive123]

Lighting
Cooking
Heat
waxing skis
water proofing seams

[mbarnatl]

Ok... next one....uses for a watch.

[Rick]

Time of day
Compass
Time paces
Time pulse

[crashdive123]

Signal mirror

[rebel]

With water a magnifying glass.

[Rick]

Are you removing the crystal for that, Rebel?

[rebel]

Are you removing the crystal for that, Rebel?

Yes. Seems like it might work. Never tried it.

[Tony uk]

To make you look funkey :D

[Eaglecrypt99]

paper clips is a big thing.
1. spear point
2. fish hook
3. blister popper
4.compass(with magnet)
anything else

[flandersander]

Condom
Candle
Watch
Cotton Gauze
Gloves (potholders)
Safety pins



Just about anything can have multiple uses. It's when people bring along a wheeled cooler or inflatable air mattress that the number of uses goes down.

What else could you use a condom for? honestly.

[MCBushbaby]

What else could you use a condom for? honestly.

lol, think about it. Unlubricated gives you many options:

water carrying container
pillow (blow up, tie shut)
cover your rifle barrel end
small solar distillery (fill will green vegetation, seal, lay out in sun)
flotation device
sling shot

I've got quite a list going here (http://ourwilderness.freezoka.com/survivalskills_backpackitems_multiuseitems.html)

[canid]

i dont think you'll distill any measurabe amount of water in a condom, and it wouldn't make any useful slingshot, would make an extremely fragile pillow but the rest are pretty good.

also, you could use one as a glove for handling certain plants, such as harvesting nettles for food or cordage, clearing poison oak/ivy from a camp/sleeping area, for a tournicate, but it may prevent you from getting any navigational aids...

[MCBushbaby]

I think I grabbed slingshot from a previous post, but I rethought the distillery idea and the only way would be to blow it up like a balloon... but then how do you get vegetation in there? lol good call

[Tony uk]

Use a condom if you have a finger wound you wraped a bandage around, Put the condom over it and tie the bottom to keep dry

[crashdive123]

Expediant shower cap.:eek:

[Rick]

Oh! Man (he said picking himself up off the floor from laughing). Too much!!!

http://www.villagehatshop.com/media/condom-cap-sm.gif

[Tony uk]

Oh! Man (he said picking himself up off the floor from laughing). Too much!!!

http://www.villagehatshop.com/media/condom-cap-sm.gif

Someone has had to much to drink in think...........

[amranch]

Ok, here's the deal, we list anything that has more than one use and, next we list different uses and ideas for said items. Here's what I've got so far.

1.) Trash bags.
2.) Duct tape.
3.) Bandana(s).
4.) 35mm film cans.
5.) Walking staff(s).

Anything I've left off?:confused:
multi-knife,Swiss Army,fork,spoon

[mbarnatl]

Ok...next one....cotton gauze.

[crashdive123]

first aid applications
fire tinder
soaked in vaseline - longer burning
coated with wax - longer burning
heat/sunburn prevention (field expedient turbin)
trail markers
torch
personal hygiene

[Rick]

Keep bugs off food
sling (any type - double or tripled for strength)
cordage
expedient boot lace
strainer for water to keep out floaties
folded over and use it for a hot pad

[Tony uk]

Bandage for cuts, Temp to slow bleeding

[crashdive123]

Time for a new one.....surgical tubing.

[mbarnatl]

Time for a new one.....surgical tubing.

Was done back at post #60.

[mbarnatl]

up next is uses for gloves.

[Stony]

'dont forget a few strong & healthy woman
on that multi-use list

[Rick]

(head slap) (shakes head and walks away).

[trax]

'dont forget a few strong & healthy woman
on that multi-use list

Tell me that means you think of women as something you 'use' go ahead, say it...I dare ya...:p

[crashdive123]

up next is uses for gloves.

Leather, wool, synthetic, rubber?

[nell67]

Tell me that means you think of women as something you 'use' go ahead, say it...I dare ya...:p

You just wanna see me get all ugly again,dontcha?????

[mbarnatl]

Leather, wool, synthetic, rubber?

whatever you carry in your survival kit or bug-out-bag.

[mbarnatl]

'dont forget a few strong & healthy woman
on that multi-use list

@Stony: Is your strong & healthy woman
Leather, wool, synthetic, rubber? :D

[Rick]

mbarnatl - Man, you are just bad. Funny, but bad.:rolleyes:

[crashdive123]

@Stony: Is your strong & healthy woman
Leather, wool, synthetic, rubber? :D

Inflatable.:D:eek:

[crashdive123]

Leather gloves
keep hands warm
protect from blisters/cuts
pot holders
picking up hot coals
Rubber gloves
bandage
tournequet
waterproofing wounds
keep hands dry/clean
water carrier
solar still
entertaing kids (ballons, rooster immatation)
Milky Way wrapper (beats using Milky Way wrapper for a condom)
Any Glove
marking the trail - pointing the way
challenging somebody to a duel

[Rick]

Rubber gloves:

I'll give credit to Adventure Doc. He mentioned these in another thread.

You can snap off the end of the middle finger and use the glove as a one way valve for mouth to mouth.

You can pull the finger off a glove and pop off the end of the finger. Slide it over your finger and roll it down. It makes a mild tourniquet for bloodless surgery if you have to remove a bad splinter or the like. I actually tried this one and it works very well.

[mbarnatl]

I was wondering if anyone would be interested in a complied list of this thread? I have been keeping track of the postings and I am putting them together in an organized format. So far we have did 21 of the 29 items listed. The items for multi-use are items most likely carried in a survival kit or bug-out-bag. So if you are interested please let me know. When I get it complete I will post it.

[Rick]

Why don't you hang on to it and when Chris gets the wiki software you can post it there. You can PM it to anyone that wants a copy in the interim. Just a thought. Or.... do both.

[crashdive123]

Look forward to it. Thanks. Or maybe a blog entry.

[mbarnatl]

It has some more to go before it is complete, so I will wait til he gets the wiki setup.

[trax]

that's way cool mbarn, because I for one think this is one of the best on-going threads we've had. This one and the one about charging moose, my perceptions pretty much live on a sliding scale.

Hey crash, is your wolf on your avatar's name Rover? You know...red rover red rover...

[mbarnatl]

uses for a knife...

you ask what type of knife?... Answer: the type you carry in your survival kit or bug-out-bag? pocket...survival...surgical blade...

[Excalibur]

is there a compiled list here cause I dont know where to begin

[Sarge47]

It has some more to go before it is complete, so I will wait til he gets the wiki setup.

Great idea! When I 1st started this thread I had no idea everybody was going to come up with all this stuff....what about mushrooms?:rolleyes:

[Rick]

mbarnatl is keeping a list. He said he would post it when Chris gets the wiki up and running.

Aren't knives sort of restricted to cutting work? I mean, you aren't going to pry or leverage with them or use them as a hammer. See if this is what you had in mind.

skinning
cutting cordage
making tent stakes
making snare triggers
cooking
splitting wood
making a spear point (arrow point)
striker for flint or metal match (steel composite)
light surgery
cleaning fingernails
self defense (animal, vegetable or mineral)

[crashdive123]

No prying or hammering? Hmmmm - guess I'll have to consider not doing that anymore.
Signaling - If your blade has a polished finish
Signaling - for scuba diving using the butt of the knife on your tank

[mbarnatl]

mbarnatl is keeping a list. He said he would post it when Chris gets the wiki up and running.

Aren't knives sort of restricted to cutting work? I mean, you aren't going to pry or leverage with them or use them as a hammer. See if this is what you had in mind.



When I get the list done I will post it on the WIKI. That is if Chris gets his WIKI up. :D That just doesn't sound right... does it!:D Or I will post it in my blog.

- opening cans
- shaving
- mark a trail
- write short message on wood
- sawing

[Rick]

Opening cans? Sawing? With a knife? Blasphemy!:o

[mbarnatl]

Opening cans? Sawing? With a knife? Blasphemy!:o

Go back to post #207 and read.
"you ask what type of knife?... Answer: the type you carry in your survival kit or bug-out-bag? pocket...survival...surgical blade... "
:D:p

[Rick]

Okay.....this time.

[BruceZed]

Duct Tape and Ties Wraps, its all you need

[mbarnatl]

OK... the next item is brass wire.

[Rick]

Brass wire (copper wire, stainless steel)

Snare
lashing
weight for a spear or arrow
fire starter (two small strips inserted into the bulb socket of a mini mag light. Not LED version)

[crashdive123]

fishing
pot handle
trip wire
wrapping food for placement in coals (easier to retrieve)
hanging stuff (lanterns, food over fire)

[mbarnatl]

Next one... tarps or plastic sheeting.

[Alpine_Sapper]

Next one... tarps or plastic sheeting.

Signalling - Drape that bad boy over the top of a tree and tie it down. Search flight will see, as well as anyone on a higher elevation. Especially blaze orange or red.

Shelter
Emergency blanket
Solar still
vegetation bag water still
water transpiration still
emergency litter for injured
weather proofing your pack
making your shelter water resistant

According to the DHS:
Nuclear/biological/chemical proof a room (uh, yeah, right. )

weapon (suffocation)
body bag

It's late. can't think of anymore atm.

[Rick]

The plastic can be used to treat a sucking chest wound
Improvised medical drag for injured
Melt plastic for expedient adhesive
Use untreated tarp to filter muddy/dirty water (still must be boiled)

[Teacher]

I might have missed this one, but heres my input. 550 cord when broken down to the inner strands makes a great dental floss. It has a7-10 pound tensil strergth so it could be used for stitching up wounds if need be as well as regular sewing needs.

[crashdive123]

Teacher, here's a thread on 550 cord that you might like. http://www.wilderness-survival.net/forums/showthread.php?t=45&highlight=cord

[Teacher]

This stuff has so many uses it should be mandatory in any survival kit. 550 total streagth. The outter casing is 330 lbs, the inner strands (7) are approx 35lbs, and each of those has 3 smaller strands that are 7-10 lbs. I wrap my knfe handles with it for better grip and use in an emergancy.

[crashdive123]

Absolutely. I replace the shoe laces in my hiking boots, wrap sheaths, and just like to have a lot of it with me. Good stuff.

[Tahyo]

I already had a pretty good stash of it but since getting that parachute the other day, I've got enough that will probably last the rest of my life. I haven't cut it off yet. No need to so I just rolled up everything up and put it away.

I agree though, no shortage of uses for it.

[Teacher]

If it is NEW and or in really good condition. Youu can double it up and saftly use it for repelling, doubling will allow it to absorb shock on the line better. I am 200 lbs and with 50 lbs of gear on i have never had a problem.

[Teacher]

Whats your planns for the canopy of the chute?

[crashdive123]

I already had a pretty good stash of it but since getting that parachute the other day, I've got enough that will probably last the rest of my life. I haven't cut it off yet. No need to so I just rolled up everything up and put it away.

I agree though, no shortage of uses for it.

I'd say you've got a pretty good supply. I think I have 5 or 6 300 foot rolls. Just got in a shipment of various buckles and am experimenting with making some bracelets, belts, etc.

[Teacher]

Its great for making hat bands.

[mbarnatl]

@Rick: Remember back around post #8 or #9, I mentioned about making thread out of trash bags? Well Saturday we had to cancel our hike because of thunderstorms and heavy rains, so I made some thread out of a trash bag. It took me about twenty minutes. I made about a 5 foot piece. My daughter could not believe how strong it was. Rainy days are a good time to practice things. :)

[joe_]

everclear ... has anybody mentioned that yet?

starting fires... convertable butane, wounds, antiseptic, mouth wash, keeping stuff fresh.

[mbarnatl]

OK, the next one is boot laces.

[crashdive123]

I always replace my boot laces with 550 cord. So I guess my answer would be the same as the options with 550 cord.

[mbarnatl]

- cordage
- snare
- fishing line
- tourniquet

[mbarnatl]

The next one is the uses for a survival blanket.

[Rick]

blanket
shelter
insulation inside a jacket
fire reflector
expedient water bag

[crashdive123]

marker or signal for rescuers
waterproof bandage
wrapping a giant Hersey's Kiss

[Rick]

Back at you there ..... oh, wait a minute. Uhuh. I misread that last one. Sorry.

[Arkansas_Ranger]

handcuffs. hahahaha. :D

[ATough]

Iodine always useful, and it has a few functions.

[mbarnatl]

Iodine always useful, and it has a few functions.

Well?....tell us and I will add it to the list.:D

[ATough]

It can disinfect wounds and can sanitize surfaces, and purify water for drinking (3 drops per litre.)

[mbarnatl]

OK... the next one is uses for socks.

[crashdive123]

Warm feet
Warm hands
Pot holder
Field expedient weapon (fill with rocks and swing like a flail)
Bag to carry stuff (berries, etc)
Ear muffs
Bag warmer (warm rocks inside)

[mbarnatl]

Here is a list of what we have covered in this thread so far. Please let me know if we missed any items that may be found in a survival kit that may have a multi use.

Trash bags
Duct tape
Bandannas
35mm film cans
Walking staff
Ziplock freezer bags
550 cord
Snare wire
Aluminum foil
Surgical tubing
Dental floss
Sewing needles
Safety pins
Flexible cable ties
Sewing thread
Condom
Candle
Watch
Cotton gauze
Gloves
Knife
Brass wire (copper wire, stainless steel)
Tarp or plastic sheeting
Survival blanket
Boot laces
Signal mirror
Socks
P38
MRE package
Iodine

[BraggSurvivor]

Why "brass" wire?

[mbarnatl]

Why "brass" wire?

Look at posting #218 and #219.

I edited to the list "Brass wire (copper wire, stainless steel)"

[elmvaleoutdoors]

Hi People,
How about the uses for 550 cord?
Boot laces
fishing line
thread/sewing
snares
fishing net
shelter building
fire starting
attaching items we don't want to lose
baskets
slings
trot lines
and so much more

[Rick]

It's on the list. We've covered it.

How about going to the Introduction section and tell us something about yourself?

[Teacher]

OK... the next one is uses for socks.

How about PMA booster?.....Would help with boredom and loneliness.