How good are you?

[MichMetal]

If someone were to blind fold you, and drop you off in the middle of the woods, with nothing but the cloths on your back, and decent pair of boots, could you survive? To make things a little easier, it's be mid spring so temperatures comfortable during the day.

I know with my limited knowledge I couldn't survive, but i'd try my best. I'd look for a decent(off the ground if possible) form of shelter, then look for a rock to use as a knife, briefly look for water depending on how much daylights left, but mainly focus on trying to make a fire using bow drill(with a shoe lace or rip part of my shirt) or hand drill, so i don't get hypo during the night. Granted since i've never done any of this before, my chances probably wouldn't be the best heh.

[Rick]

I guess it depends on where you drop me off at. Why not just start hoofing it out of the woods?

[TresMon]

Don't waste a lace or rip up your clothes to make a bow drill string. Outer bark from a young hickory works just fine for 3ish coals.

[Warheit]

Yeah, I'd probably die.

[tsitenha]

Rick is right, start on a way out...That being said, first get your cardinal point fixed. Look at sun for bearing, or shadow stick, look at the hill sides, sky line toget a possible reference (industrial sites, ranger towers, pole lines etc...). Fix a point, long range and head for it. Browse/drink on the way out, by mid afternoon start looking for a shelter site, build a wind/rain shelter, gather fire wood...tinder, kindling etc... using a friction fire (plough) get an ember and make a small fire get real close to it, hunker down. Repeat it next day and so on...

[Batch]

Which woods?

If they drive me there down here. I'll be fine.

If they drive me by car and then airboat. I should be able to put in an educated guess based on whether it is highway or city travel and which big bank they take if any. Added with what type of terrain we travel when we get out of the car. Gravel or mud to the launch point? Melaleuca trees? You can tell by smell and if you brush against the trees. If they take you across alligator alley you'll feel them make a u-turn to set you in on the south or they put in on the north side.

Its spring which is the driest time. The weather is usually mild. Pick a direction based on how they got you there and how long they drove. There are only so many ways in and I have been in most of them. If I need to set up shelter I can scan the area for sabal palms and hardwoods. You can also use the terrain to help judge where you are. If I had to set up in cypress I could. But, that would be my last choice. Even in the sawgrass there is shelter. I would opt for something with sabal palms. But, I have experience in willow heads as well and could set up camp there with no tools. The willow are really like floating islands in the glades and they'll have giant leather ferns in them. You can mat the leather ferns over they drier roots and get pretty comfortable.

Sean and I working our way through a willow head island in the everglades sawgrass.

7661

I can get fire from a bow drill kit made from nothing but willow. While I could make cordage from the willow. I would just use my lace. I practiced my bowdrill on my back patio and I know how to run the drill with out damaging my string. Sawgrass, palm fronds make a lot of smoke and would be good for a signal fire.

I am going to have to rely on someones trash for water. There are vines that you are supposed to get water from. But, I haven't tried that. I usually carry water, means to boil water, water purification tablets and a survival straw. I would need to find a can, glass bottle or a plastic bottle and purify the water that way. If I didn't find anything I would try to get some willow charcoal and make an improvised filter and take my chances. I am open to suggestions on this.

Food is way down the list for me here. But, it is abundant in apple snails, grubs, smilax tips, fern tips, sawgrass, catails. You could even eat willow shoots. Though most people don't like the flavor. That is in the willow head. Variety increases in the larger heads. If I make mistakes in where I am. But, navigate carefully I should hit a trail, canal, or road the first day. The second day at the latest.

All that assumes they didn't leave me anything like a deck of cards. Then I would do as Rick recommended and start playing solitary.

[Batch]

I was wondering about the willow and water. I made a whistle from willow once. The outer bark was removed in one piece by tapping around it gently. I wonder it that could be done with a thicker piece and then break off the bottom portion of the inner stick to use as a plug for the bottom. Would the bottom hold water? What about when it was put in or near the fire.

Might have to try that.

[Wildthang]

Well I think I would look for the tracks of whoever dropped me off and follow those out , and Look for water and forage food on the way!

[Old GI]

This is almost "deja vu, all over again" to quote a famous American. If you throw in a strip search for coins taped to your butt, it would be exact.

[Sarge47]

S.T.O.P.!!! :yes:

[kyratshooter]

Plan 1. Sit down and get real quiet. You will be able to hear the trucks/cars on the nearist road if you are east of the Mississippi. Walk to the road and hitch a ride.

Plan 1-b includes finding the SOB that dumped me out here and cutting off his reproductive bits.

Plan 2. Check and see if you have cell phone signil. Call home and have someone come get you. If you have a really good cell phone, and no one will answer you calls, use the GPS app and go home.

OH! you have nothing but the clothes on your back, crap!

Plan 3. Find shelter immidiately. You will be dead in as little as two hours without shelter.

Now I sit down and take off my belt. My belt is woven from 90 feet of 550 cord and has a stainless steel buckle on one end and a leather tab on the other. Sewn inside that leather tab is an exacto knife blade. Now my search for good flint can wait a day.

If they left me my wallet I keep a survival tool in there with a small ferro rod duct taped to the side.


How about trying a real life senerio. You hear a freight train running through your house. Suddenly your are flying through the air. Two hours latter you wake up in a field wearing only your tidy whities. It is raining and dark, so dark there are no lights in the distance for reference of guidance. Your left arm in borken and hanging from a shread of skin. You have no idea what has happened to your wife and kids or which direction you house went.

We had this happen to peole in my immidiate neighborhood on March 2, 2012. Why dream up impossible senerios when there are some real life ones to deal with?

In most cases one of our biggist effort is finding a "wilderness" to recreate in and practice our skills, The guys driving us out to this boundless forest know something we do not, where all the wilderness went too!

Are you ready for tornado, fire or flood and could you survive in your own back yard, or in your own house, for two weeks with no power and no outside rescources if every store in your town were closed?

M&M, get off the computer and do something! The only skills you will ever have will be computer skills if you do not put in some practical effort. In another month you will be posting answers to questions and gaining rep from noobes when you have never slept in the back yard overnight.

[hunter63]

S.T.O.P.!!! :yes:

Thank you.....Was wondering when you would chime in.
Anyway, I have to agree:
Quote>
S.T.O.P. Sit -Think - Observe - Plan.

SIT: When you realize that you are lost take the time to sit down and collect your thoughts. You are not lost, you are right where you are, your camp, vehicle and everyone else is lost.

THINK: What do I have at my disposal both physical and mental that can help me in this situation. Take an inventory of your survival kit items and how you will use them. Take an inventory of your mind, remember what you always thought you would do if you got lost. Most of all remain positive, you will survive.

OBSERVE: Look around, is there shelter, water, high ground, an open area so the searchers can see you. It will be easier for those searching to find you if you can stay in one selected location that will allow you to build a fire, provide shelter, set out signals and be in an area that can be seen at a distance or from aircraft .

PLAN: Now create your plan of action. Be positive and take care of yourself. If it is late in the day, build a fire for heat and signaling, find or make a shelter against the weather, and most of all remain positive, you do have the ability to survive. You have conquered the major danger of not allowing panic to cast your fate, you can now conquer anything else that confronts you. <Quote

http://www.adventuresportsonline.com/survival.htm

I really hate these little games, as Krat says....Try a real senerio and see how it goes.......Even a job lost can bring on a major SHTF.

Now as far as getting left in the winderness goes, try reading the exploits of Hugh Glass:
http://www.historynet.com/hugh-glass-legendary-trapper-in-americas-western-frontier.htm

And yes I could and probaly would survive if only to "Get the miserable SOB that did this to me"......When things go bad.....get Mad!

[Sarge47]

Plan 1. Sit down and get real quiet. You will be able to hear the trucks/cars on the nearist road if you are east of the Mississippi. Walk to the road and hitch a ride.

Plan 1-b includes finding the SOB that dumped me out here and cutting off his reproductive bits.

Plan 2. Check and see if you have cell phone signil. Call home and have someone come get you. If you have a really good cell phone, and no one will answer you calls, use the GPS app and go home.

OH! you have nothing but the clothes on your back, crap!

Plan 3. Find shelter immidiately. You will be dead in as little as two hours without shelter.

Now I sit down and take off my belt. My belt is woven from 90 feet of 550 cord and has a stainless steel buckle on one end and a leather tab on the other. Sewn inside that leather tab is an exacto knife blade. Now my search for good flint can wait a day.

If they left me my wallet I keep a survival tool in there with a small ferro rod duct taped to the side.


How about trying a real life senerio. You hear a freight train running through your house. Suddenly your are flying through the air. Two hours latter you wake up in a field wearing only your tidy whities. It is raining and dark, so dark there are no lights in the distance for reference of guidance. Your left arm in borken and hanging from a shread of skin. You have no idea what has happened to your wife and kids or which direction you house went.

We had this happen to peole in my immidiate neighborhood on March 2, 2012. Why dream up impossible senerios when there are some real life ones to deal with?

In most cases one of our biggist effort is finding a "wilderness" to recreate in and practice our skills, The guys driving us out to this boundless forest know something we do not, where all the wilderness went too!

Are you ready for tornado, fire or flood and could you survive in your own back yard, or in your own house, for two weeks with no power and no outside rescources if every store in your town were closed?

M&M, get off the computer and do something! The only skills you will ever have will be computer skills if you do not put in some practical effort. In another month you will be posting answers to questions and gaining rep from noobes when you have never slept in the back yard overnight.

I usually shy away from threads like this for the very reason that if you dream up a scenario then it's not survival, but camping with minimal gear! A real survival scenario is an unexpected event such as the one that Kyrat points out. Here's another:

http://www.usatoday.com/weather/storms/tornadoes/2008-06-12-boyscouts_N.htm

Please note that these Boy Scouts weren't worried about carrying a knife, but having the 1st aid knowledge needed to save what lives that they could. MM, I've said this before and I'll say it again, Survival is NOT the latest extreme sport, no matter what you see on TV or read on the internet! I'ts LIFE OR DEATH! The object is to be prepared, not just with gear, but with the knowledge, experience, and confidence that will pull you through any nasty situation! :yes:

[jcullen24]

Do I get to have what's usually on me? My Key chain? I believe in preparation(Prepper)
That's why we're here.

I stink at Bow Drilling, that's why I have a Fire Steel on my key-chain.
I have a Swiss Army Knife and a compass on that same key-chain.

I would do all right since I don't have a panic mode.
Or as some of my relatives would say, too stupid to know when to be scared!

[kyratshooter]

I do know a few folks that would like to take me to the woods blindfolded. Does the term X-wife mean anything to anyone else?

But if that ever happens, even with all the survival skils I might have learned over the years, I ain't comming back and the body will nerver be found!

[Rick]

I'd order a pizza and catch a ride out with the delivery driver.

[Sarge47]

I'd sit down, pull out a deck of cards, and start playing solitaire. Sooner or later somebody's gonna show up and tell me to play the red eight on the black nine.(right Rick?) Walla! I'm saved! :yes:

[natertot]

The thing I don't get is that most people want to learn how to survive this or that scenario. Why not learn ways to not get into these little situations? If I don't walk down a back alley by myself late at night and tick off the local head man, I don't have to worry about getting dumped in no stinkin woods. Problem solved! :thumbs_up:

[Sarge47]

The thing I don't get is that most people want to learn how to survive this or that scenario. Why not learn ways to not get into these little situations? If I don't walk down a back alley by myself late at night and tick off the local head man, I don't have to worry about getting dumped in no stinkin woods. Problem solved! :thumbs_up:

Remember that post by Rick SAR? Only 6% of those that they rescued ever had any type of training. 94% don't know what they're doing. The odds are that the more you study the more you will never be lost in the woods! :cowboy:

[Rick]

Why not learn ways to not get into these little situations?

And that is why we refer to him as, well, I can't use that word on here. But he's smart. Reaaaal smart. Don't get in bad situations and you don't have to get out of bad situations.

[natertot]

And that is why we refer to him as, well, I can't use that word on here. But he's smart. Reaaaal smart. Don't get in bad situations and you don't have to get out of bad situations.

It only makes sense to me though. A lot of people want to know "how do I rebuild an engine if it ever seizes up?". Well, change your oil, filter, plugs, and a few other maintenance items, and the motor won't seize up. Simple problems have simple solutions I always say.

Carry some food and water, a tarp for shelter, an extra set of clothes and learn how to make fire. Leave someone a detailed plan and area you will be in. When you don't arrive on time, SAR will find you and you won't be hungry, dehydrated, suffering from hypothermia, etc....If someone was trying to "dump me in the woods", someone will be dying before I get there....Just sayin.

[MichMetal]

Do I get to have what's usually on me? My Key chain? I believe in preparation(Prepper)
That's why we're here.

I stink at Bow Drilling, that's why I have a Fire Steel on my key-chain.
I have a Swiss Army Knife and a compass on that same key-chain.

I would do all right since I don't have a panic mode.
Or as some of my relatives would say, too stupid to know when to be scared!

Unfortunately all you have is your cloths, and boots, no keychain or wallet. You're literally in the middle of the forest, lets say 30 miles from any roads. It's spring time so not too hot in the day, but still quite cold at night. Also no one(besides the people that put you out there) know you're missing much less are where you're at, and you were drugged and unconscious the entire time so weren't able to hear or see anything. Could you survive? And to the guys saying "don't get yourself in that situation" consider it a mistake, someone mistakenly thought you were someone else, drugged you, and drove you out there thinking you wouldn't make it back. And no there are no tracks left behind by the guys. Also let's say the location is in California, deep in their woods, so you have redwoods etc...around you.

What would you do?

And to the guys talking about bringing supplies...lol you remind me of that guy on here who talked about him and his buddies "knife only" adventure, only to have a random with them use fishing line, gun etc...haha....it defeats the purpose of this thread, of "real" outdoor survivor when it counts.

[kyratshooter]

What do you want M&M?

Detailed discription and hours of typing? References to which books we would recall? Step by step explaination of the wood needed for the bow drill, how to build a shelter, how to find and purify water, how to set snares, how to knap flint tools? You want us to build a cabin and set up housekeeping or walk out? We might even reinvent agriculture while we are out there and decide to start a survival school business.

It takes absolutely zero effort to think up a senerio and then "what if" until everyone dies of old age. All it does is promote more computer talk and has nothing to do with "How good we are". How good we are is proven in the bush and around the house, not on the computer.

Most of our surviving is done right in the home, when the power goes out, when the city issues a boil order on the water system, when the flu sweeps through the community. Does life lack drama to the point that we much create it from thin air?

I am not going to the redwood forest of California and no one is going to make me go there. I am quite sure that no one is going to front the trip to take me there and dump me in the middle of a national forest. I would die of heart failure as soon as I found out I was in California!

I have post holes to dig, a garden to weed, stock to care for and a homestead to keep up, just like most everyone here. That's surviving.

[MichMetal]

What do you want M&M?
It takes absolutely zero effort to think up a senerio and then "what if" until everyone dies of old age. All it does is promote more computer talk and has nothing to do with "How good we are". How good we are is proven in the bush, not on the computer.

Try reading my initial post if you're confused as to what this thread is about...and if you don't like "computer talk" why are you on here? I've learned a lot things via "computer talk", the internet is an incredible resource. And i'm sure you yourself have learned a lot too, on this very forum. In terms of "proven in the bush", your individual experiences are great, but that doesn't really help everyone else. Unless of course you share them via "computer talk" or what have you.

[1stimestar]

Simple answer, very.

[kyratshooter]

And 90% of what you get on the computer is pure BS, talked about by people that never leave their Mom's basement.

I was a teacher for 35 years and I can assure you that you have not learned anything until you can accomplish it, and not just talk about it.

This forum is made up of individuals that do things and then "check in" and chat about what they did. They talk about what worked and what did not work. They talk about what they are growing, what they are building, cooking and making. They are doing things and asking advice or giving advice.

Not many of us are living in a fantacy world of "what if" and I'll be dog-gone if I ever get caught up in another of these juvinile "drugged and hauled to Kalifornia" senerios again!

[MichMetal]

And 90% of what you get on the computer is pure BS, talked about by people that never leave their Mom's basement.

I was a teacher for 35 years and I can assure you that you have not learned anything until you can accomplish it, and not just talk about it.

This forum is made up of individuals that do things and then "check in" and chat about what they did. They talk about what worked and what did not work. They talk about what they are growing, what they are building, cooking and making. They are doing things and asking advice or giving advice.

Not many of us are living in a fantacy world of "what if" and I'll be dog-gone if I ever get caught up in another of these juvinile "drugged and hauled to Kalifornia" senerios again!

90% really? I find it unfortunate you decided to insult so many seasoned survivalists who take their time to make videos, and share their experiences online by calling it bs. I'm not sure what you taught for 35 years but I can tell you this, i've met humble people and i've met arrogant people, and I can tell you without a doubt i'd choose the former over the latter any day. In my experience humble people are always the most knowledgeable. In terms of you insulting my thread, I'm not sure what the goal was with that, but it wasn't necessary nor appreciated, if you had no interest in it, you were free not to post in it? It's very simple. Others found this thread interesting/amusing and posted some good comments.

[Rick]

MM - What would you do?

[crashdive123]

MichMetal - if you want a realistic response to a realistic situation, try using this as a guide. http://www.wilderness-survival.net/forums/showthread.php?5477-Survival-Scenario-Check-List

[BENESSE]

I kinda misread the original OP thinking that the challenge was about being blindfolded not only on the way to an unknown place but once there as well. It got me thinking...what would you do if for some reason you lost your sight while out there in the middle of nowhere. (and your phone wasn't working) Obviously, having a whistle would be helpful. Bright clothing, a flare, a beacon?
Never thought about this possibility (it would suck big time), we never really talk about it, but it is plausible.

[intothenew]

I think this is a realistic situation, it has happened to me quite a few times.

First, I would thank my captors, we are not on that same mosquito infested river bank that has been fished out for years. Thank you, thank you soooo much for bringing me to Kaliforny. Where did you miss the turn?

My next move is likely the most important, I ask for a beer. That will serve two purposes, most importantly "The Hair of the Dog". That move is important because I am about to plant a seed to hopefully grow their sense of adventure. I tell them I'm headed to Napa, and be gone between 10 and 30 days. They have a different taste for adult beverages, and I assume they'll just stay put. That's why that first move was so important, I'm sure they have a 10 day supply of beer, 30 may be stretching things. These guys are professional river bank preppers.

I assess my captor (Uncle, Cousin, BIL, and/or close friend). Tire chain and canoe inventory is really my concern. When I get back do ya think we can go to Alaska or Hawaii? Never been to either.

[Sarge47]

How did my captors drug me and how many of them were there? Did they come into my house? Impossible since everyone in this house is armed and ready to shoot. I don't go into places where this can happen. Did they do a "strip search" before I was dropped Off? Is there a Rock Concert I can go to before I leave California? Why did they take me all the way from Illinois to California in the 1st place? Why not just drop me off in a national forest around here? Inquiring minds want to know? :scared:

[RangerXanatos]

I would bellow out a supersonic whistle that no man is able to hear to call for my friends: the cast of My Little Pony. I would then ride Rainbow Dash looking for the perps who blindfolded me and took me to the woods. Together, we would then do the Sonic Rainboom. Perplexed by our colorful display, the perps will have a change of heart and donate their belongings and money to charity in order to have time to care for all the little ponies in Equestria.

Unrealistic scenarios call for unrealistic saviors.
7683

[kyratshooter]

90% really? I find it unfortunate you decided to insult so many seasoned survivalists who take their time to make videos, and share their experiences online by calling it bs. I'm not sure what you taught for 35 years but I can tell you this, i've met humble people and i've met arrogant people, and I can tell you without a doubt i'd choose the former over the latter any day. In my experience humble people are always the most knowledgeable. In terms of you insulting my thread, I'm not sure what the goal was with that, but it wasn't necessary nor appreciated, if you had no interest in it, you were free not to post in it? It's very simple. Others found this thread interesting/amusing and posted some good comments.

1. Owning a boonie hat and a vidio camera does not make one a seasoned survivalist. You are required to blow off at least one finger, show the world the entrance to your bunker and let the camera crew pan an inventory of your food stocks on a national TV show to be considered a "seasoned survivalist". This will be followed within weeks by loss of your job, commitment to a mental hospital, loss of your firearms ownership privilidges peple pointing at you and laughing.

2. There is no correlation between humility and intelligence. Those guys that sat in the back of the class, never saying a word, staring at the ceiling with their mouths hanging open were the stupid ones. They went on to buy vidio cameras at the pawn shop, film earthworms in the back yard and drone endlessly about survival foods.

3. The smart and "seasoned survivalists" that have replied have all asked "What the he!! are you thinking". The rest I can not speak for.

4. When someone points at something you are trying to do and says "that will not work, you are going to hurt yourself" they are not insulting you.

I will make you an offer. You want to learn? OK, I am retired and have time on my hands, it is spring and I am bored. I am offering to take you to the woods for 1 week. You do not need to bring any gear, I can equip a small army. The first three days will be spent learning skills, the last two days you will be on "survival mode" at any level of rescources you choose. (I will also choose my level of rescources)

We will be in the Daniel Boone National Forest if you come here. It is an unbroken stretch of forest that extends from the Tennessee border to the Ohio River. We will be in the area around London, KY. You choose any time between now and fall, 'cause I am not going in the snow or an ice storm.

I will do my best to remember to bring tent poles. Do not bring any firearms, you will not need them. The meth-heads are relitively friendly in that area.

I would list my skills and training, but that might seem arrogant, but I will wear a boonie hat or do rag if it makes you more comfortable.

[crashdive123]

Not sure which is more disturbing.....an unrealistic scenario or that RangerXanatos is talking about My Little Pony, Rainbow Dash, Sonic Rainboom or Equestria.

[BENESSE]

Kyrat, I just might take you up on that offer.
Since I'm too old to join the Marines, this would be the next best thing. Kinda like the cliff notes of survival.
Got a few survival knives already!

[hunter63]

MM - What would you do?

He is already doing it.........".Hey lookie here....bunch of old guys chasing their tail, pretty hilarious......well, better see if mom came back with some Micky D's"

Sorry Dude, not playing.........

[Daniel Nighteyes]

... and I'll be dog-gone if I ever get caught up in another of these juvinile "drugged and hauled to Kalifornia" senerios again!

And California thanks you for it, too! [Just teasin' ya a bit! :laugh:]

[Sarge47]

I would bellow out a supersonic whistle that no man is able to hear to call for my friends: the cast of My Little Pony. I would then ride Rainbow Dash looking for the perps who blindfolded me and took me to the woods. Together, we would then do the Sonic Rainboom. Perplexed by our colorful display, the perps will have a change of heart and donate their belongings and money to charity in order to have time to care for all the little ponies in Equestria.

Unrealistic scenarios call for unrealistic saviors.
7683

Been at the mushrooms again,haven't ya Ranger? :stuart:

[Rick]

I'm pretty concerned that RX knows that much about My Little Pony. I don't even know that much and I have five grand kids.

Of more concern would be taking KY up on his offer. I can not sleep with my eyes open for five whole days and I would be too afraid to close them for fear of hearing banjo music. I've been to Daniel Boone. It has a LOT of trees for a LONG way in any direction. Well, not at the edge toward the river. There aren't but a few right there but in the middle there's a lot.

[kyratshooter]

Kyrat, I just might take you up on that offer.
Since I'm too old to join the Marines, this would be the next best thing. Kinda like the cliff notes of survival.
Got a few survival knives already!

Ms B, you and Mr.B would get the city folk option. That would include a bug proof tent and optional airbed, also use of the ice cooler and Coleman stove. We would skip the running through the woods howling at the moon training and stick to more pleasant pursuits; fire building, setting snares, filtering water, fishing and sipping good liquer around the campfire at night. We can even bring chairs. That will from this time on be known as the "New York Option". However, my late wife was a New York Girl and a quite capable backpacker and general woods runner.

As far as the banjo music goes Rick, one can hear that anywere between Lake Erie and Atlanta GA if you listen real hard and don't stray far from the mountains. I understand the echos penetrate deep into the Kentuckiana territory. There are some real scary people and places in the WVA/OH/KY triangle equil to or stranger that the TN/VA/KY triangle. There are a couple of spots in southwest VA I am not sure they have run all the Indians out of yet.

There is legend of a creature called a Hootnanny that roams those hills eating first time solo campers and the occasional "seasoned survivalist".

Is the pool still open on how long before the Z word is mentioned?

[BENESSE]

Kyrat, nothing but the full Monty treatment for us. Gotta redeam the city folk image, and besides, the first half of our lives was spent down in confederate country. We can pass real easy.

[kyratshooter]

You poor soul! How long has it been since you had a glass or REAL sweet tea?

We will catch a mess of fish and fry them up with some potatoes and wash it all down with the first good tea you have tasted in years. I will even abandon my low carb diet just for that occasion. BTW, I am down 55 pounds at this point. (5 more and I get icecream for the first time since September.)

My origional destination thought was the area around Laurel Lake just outside of Corbin, KY, about 30 minutes off the interstate. It is wild enough to be a challenge, has any degree of camping hardship one would desire and is still close to emergency services, conviniences and the origional home of KFC. I think there is cell phone coverage there so we could call out for pizza if things got really rough.

If I was really devious I would drag folks up around the Rockcastle. That area has the highest concentration of Copperheads per acre in the U.S. The KY woods holds quite a few claims to fame.

[MichMetal]

Beginning to think lot of you wouldn't have any idea what to do, that's why instead of giving quality feedback you decided to keep insulting me. That typically is the case when someone has nothing of value to offer. My advice to you guys is learn some manners, I don't care how old you are, or that this is the internet your immature behaviors won't be tolerated. I'm not a kid, i'm 25 years old and am now very disappointed in this forum, I suppose i'll have to keep searching for real outdoor survivalist.

[crashdive123]

Beginning to think lot of you wouldn't have any idea what to do, that's why instead of giving quality feedback you decided to keep insulting me. That typically is the case when someone has nothing of value to offer. My advice to you guys is learn some manners, I don't care how old you are, or that this is the internet your immature behaviors won't be tolerated. I'm not a kid, i'm 25 years old and am now very disappointed in this forum, I suppose i'll have to keep searching for real outdoor survivalist.

Well then you need to stop acting like a spoiled child. You were offered some good advice, yet you chose to pout and focus on what pissed you off. In post 29 you were offered a suggestion that would help you present a realistic scenario that would probably elicit some realistic responses.

Come or go - it's your choice. If you find your "real outdoor survivalists" and continue to act like an asshat I suspect you will tell all of the members there that you are the one that knows his stuff. You are the one that is right. They no nothing. And then your search will continue.

Stop watching videos. Stop romanticizing about survival through the words and deeds of others and get your boots in the field.

[BENESSE]

You poor soul! How long has it been since you had a glass or REAL sweet tea?

We will catch a mess of fish and fry them up with some potatoes and wash it all down with the first good tea you have tasted in years. I will even abandon my low carb diet just for that occasion. BTW, I am down 55 pounds at this point. (5 more and I get icecream for the first time since September.)

My origional destination thought was the area around Laurel Lake just outside of Corbin, KY, about 30 minutes off the interstate. It is wild enough to be a challenge, has any degree of camping hardship one would desire and is still close to emergency services, conviniences and the origional home of KFC. I think there is cell phone coverage there so we could call out for pizza if things got really rough.

If I was really devious I would drag folks up around the Rockcastle. That area has the highest concentration of Copperheads per acre in the U.S. The KY woods holds quite a few claims to fame.

It's been awhile. Up here it's not even on the menu.
But down home, we'd always get it sweetened (they'd bring the whole pitcher) to go with the blue plate special: fried okra, fried catfish, collard greens (with ham hock) real grits and jalapeno hush puppies.
And I too, will have to break a few dietary rules--God knows we'd need the calories just to stay alive to tell about the adventure.

[hunter63]

Beginning to think lot of you wouldn't have any idea what to do, that's why instead of giving quality feedback you decided to keep insulting me. That typically is the case when someone has nothing of value to offer. My advice to you guys is learn some manners, I don't care how old you are, or that this is the internet your immature behaviors won't be tolerated. I'm not a kid, i'm 25 years old and am now very disappointed in this forum, I suppose i'll have to keep searching for real outdoor survivalist.

Poke, poke, poke, gotta keep it going.......

[Rick]

I asked you several posts back what YOU would do. You didn't bother to answer it. Instead of offering quality feedback you chose to ignore my question. How is that any different?

[Daniel Nighteyes]

It's been awhile. Up here it's not even on the menu.
But down home, we'd always get it sweetened (they'd bring the whole pitcher) to go with the blue plate special: fried okra, fried catfish, collard greens (with ham hock) real grits and jalapeno hush puppies.
And I too, will have to break a few dietary rules--God knows we'd need the calories just to stay alive to tell about the adventure.

You forgot two things -- real buttermilk biscuits, and cornbread made with NO sugar. The stuff they call "cornbread" almost anywhere but Dixie has sugar in it; sometimes it has a lot of sugar. This makes it taste more like cake than bread, and also makes it liable to fall apart if you look at it too hard.

[oldsoldier]

20 something years ago I went through this scenerio. During our S.E.R.E. training they put us in the back of a closed truck and dropped us 20 miles out in the woods of georgia. While we had pretty much the same gear I have in my EDC bag, rather than just the clothes on our backs we made it out okay ( groups of 2) Now??? I'm getting a bit old to get in that kind of situation, but I'd like to think I'd be okay.

[MichMetal]

Well then you need to stop acting like a spoiled child. You were offered some good advice, yet you chose to pout and focus on what pissed you off. In post 29 you were offered a suggestion that would help you present a realistic scenario that would probably elicit some realistic responses.

Come or go - it's your choice. If you find your "real outdoor survivalists" and continue to act like an asshat I suspect you will tell all of the members there that you are the one that knows his stuff. You are the one that is right. They no nothing. And then your search will continue.

Stop watching videos. Stop romanticizing about survival through the words and deeds of others and get your boots in the field.

Rick told me people of all ages visit this forum, even kids, so have you ever asked yourself what kind of example you're setting? You continue to insult someone you don't even know based off nothing. How can anyone on here, much less myself give you any respect based off your behavior? They couldn't and don't, guaranteed. This was a fun thread to see what some of you would do in a survivalist scenario similar to what's shown on tv, and instead of not responding or giving quality answers you instead belittled(or tried), whined, mocked, and offered nothing of value, at all. So I hope you're proud of yourself and it doesn't surprise me at all you're a "super moderator" seems like your type are always in positions of power when they shouldn't be. I can spot people just like you on IRC, even when they're on hidden status because they're always the most arrogant and aggressive, every time.

And I won't stop watching youtube videos, not at all, because people who actually know what they're doing took the time to make the videos to share their knowledge with others, and I appreciate that a great deal. I came on this forum hoping those type of people would be on here too, so I could pick their brains, but unfortunately that's not what i've found thus far. Some of you helped me pick a good knife(or so it's been said, I haven't tested it yet to know) but it's not worth all the negativity and insults. I don't know what "neck of the woods" you guys come from where that's ok, but I just find it unfortunate.

Also Rick I already said what i'd do in my first post.

[crashdive123]

You just don't get it do you?

[hunter63]

Poke, poke, poke, gotta keep it going.......

Probably not.........

[Daniel Nighteyes]

If someone were to blind fold you, and drop you off in the middle of the woods, with nothing but the cloths on your back, and decent pair of boots, could you survive? To make things a little easier, it's be mid spring so temperatures comfortable during the day.

MichMetal,

I have been away from the computer for the past several days -- in the "urban wilderness" of the Lost Angeles area, if you're curious -- so this is my first post to what has become a rather, ah, enthusiastic (yeah, that's the word) thread.

Speaking only for me, I think you've gotten some pretty decent responses to your query. Again speaking only for me, I suspect that many of the true experts on this board (and their number is legion) are welcoming of questions and etc. One must also recognize that everyone will grow tired, from time to time, of being asked to respond to "What if this...?" and What if that...?" challenges. This isn't right and this isn't wrong. However, it IS decidedly human.

It is clear that you place a lot of value on the outcomes of this discussion. It seems to me, at least, that you're getting frustrated because it isn't going the way you hoped it would. That is not your fault, nor is it the fault of anyone on this Board. That is, plainly and simply, one of the realities of human experience.

Let's revisit the core of your original post: "... drop you off in the middle of the woods..."

Believe it or not, this does NOT describe a universal situation. The woods (and swamps and marshes) of the central Gulf Coast -- where I grew up -- are quite different from the woods of coastal Oregon and Washington. Both are considerably different from the woods of Minnesota, Wisconsin and Michigan, and from the woods of New England. ALL OF THEM are quite different from the "woods" of South America and Southeast Asia. Heck, here in California the "woods" on the WESTERN slopes of the Sierras are significantly different from those on the EASTERN slopes.

================================================== ==

Now, given all of the above, it should be no surprise that responses to your challenge - and the experiences from which they are drawn - differ widely. With that said, and with all due respect, perhaps your best moves at this point are to (a) take a step back, (b) take a few deep breaths, (c) review all of the responses your original post received, and (d) examine the lessons each of them offers.

You see, MichMetal, it is not in your long-term best interest to force yourself (and us) into a binary, win-lose, right-wrong, light-dark, good-bad, relationship. Why? Because, in such a relationship on this Board, you are forcing yourself into the lose-wrong-dark-bad position. This isn't good for you, either here or elsewhere.

Regards to all,

-- Nighteyes

[COWBOYSURVIVAL]

Beginning to think lot of you wouldn't have any idea what to do, that's why instead of giving quality feedback you decided to keep insulting me. That typically is the case when someone has nothing of value to offer. My advice to you guys is learn some manners, I don't care how old you are, or that this is the internet your immature behaviors won't be tolerated. I'm not a kid, i'm 25 years old and am now very disappointed in this forum, I suppose i'll have to keep searching for real outdoor survivalist.

Sorry about that MM. If it hadn't of been for loading up a 16 hand Fox Trotter Mare and taking her away from the colt she dropped 10 weeks ago. I 'd of shared some "real outdoor survivalist" knowledge with ya. These guys are kind of rough around the edges. It comes with age and experience. That is why I hang around even though they can be a little rough if your skin is thin. Hang in there your skin will get thicker with experience. First you gotta be weaned from your mother. Hence I had to pick up the Mare, see it is how life works. Throwing a "hissy" fit all of the sudden doesn't work anymore.

[MichMetal]

Sorry about that MM. If it hadn't of been for loading up a 16 hand Fox Trotter Mare and taking her away from the colt she dropped 10 weeks ago. I 'd of shared some "real outdoor survivalist" knowledge with ya. These guys are kind of rough around the edges. It comes with age and experience. That is why I hang around even though they can be a little rough if your skin is thin. Hang in there your skin will get thicker with experience. First you gotta be weaned from your mother. Hence I had to pick up the Mare, see it is how life works. Throwing a "hissy" fit all of the sudden doesn't work anymore.

CowBoy no problem, it was probably wrong of me to make all encompassing statements as i'm sure there are a lot of highly knowledge and friendly members on here. In terms of the hissy fit comment and thin skin etc...it's not about that, if some of the members would of just said we get these threads all the time and they get tiresome I would of respected that and let it go, and maybe even had the thread closed if it were such a big deal. But that's not what they did, they disrespected me for no good reason. Acting like that doesn't make someone tough, in fact it's the opposite, but anyway i'm not going to keep dragging this out, it is what it is.

The reason I joined this forum was to learn more about outdoors survivalist techniques and tidbits, so that I can one day soon start pursuing it as a hobby, and with the hopes that if something were to go wrong i'd have the knowledge I need to survive, so that I can come back in one piece to my missus. So yes I do take survivalist discussions serious, because the outdoors aren't a joke. In terms of your rough around the edges statement, I find that interesting as one would think that hardcore outdoors men would be some of the humblest people on the planet... considering how brutal nature can be. I honestly don't see how a man can't be humbled in such raw environments where the smallest thing can take you out.


@Daniel Nighteyes i'll take another look over posts, thanks.

[Winter]

Young man. I appreciate your quest to learn.

A few points.

1. Being older equates to experience.

2. Nobody deserves respect. It is sometimes earned and often given.

In response to your question in the OP. Gotta paraphrase a French knight at Agincourt in Shakespeare's "Henvy IV".

"I dare not say in fear it may not be true".

Anybody can say "Hell yeah, I'll survive" One vine, one loose rock, one snakebite, and you will not. Doing everything right merely enhances your chances.

[Sarge47]

If someone were to blind fold you, and drop you off in the middle of the woods, with nothing but the cloths on your back, and decent pair of boots, could you survive? To make things a little easier, it's be mid spring so temperatures comfortable during the day.

I know with my limited knowledge I couldn't survive, but i'd try my best. I'd look for a decent(off the ground if possible) form of shelter, then look for a rock to use as a knife, briefly look for water depending on how much daylights left, but mainly focus on trying to make a fire using bow drill(with a shoe lace or rip part of my shirt) or hand drill, so i don't get hypo during the night. Granted since i've never done any of this before, my chances probably wouldn't be the best heh.

MM, for the record people who haven't hardly any outdoor experience or gear have survived really tough situations. On the flip side, many experienced people have perished even with a backpack full of gear. That being said look at your post. You say it's spring, is it raining or not? Where in the world are we? Also please note that you won't survive, not because of your lack of knowledge, but with your "loser's attitude." The "will to live" is the strongest, best survival tool that we have! For actual true stories about this check out the survival stories on my blog. Your scenario is ludicrous. You say it was for "fun." Camping out is fun, but when it goes bad then it stops being fun and becomes a fight for life. Your just being unrealistic, that's all. You admit to being inexperienced and it shows here in your thread. Not meaning to give offense, I just call 'em like I see 'em. If you don't like the answers then don't ask the question. :gagged:

[Sarge47]

I asked you several posts back what YOU would do. You didn't bother to answer it. Instead of offering quality feedback you chose to ignore my question. How is that any different?

Rick, he actually answered that question in the OP when he said that he knew he wouldn't make it. :cool2:

[natertot]

MM,

My grandfather always said that God gave you two ears and one mouth because you should listen twice as much as you talk. The folks here in which you continue to banter have helped me a great bunch. I am 27 and still view myself a child in some ways. Just because you are 25 doesn't mean squat. Since everyone is trying to be nice to you in this section, I'll straight up say it. You wannna learn something? Sit down, shut up, and listen. You wanna be demeaning and inconsiderate? There's the door and don't let it hit you where the good Lord split you.

Administrators and moderators my now pm hate messages to me!

[Sarge47]

Rick told me people of all ages visit this forum, even kids, so have you ever asked yourself what kind of example you're setting? You continue to insult someone you don't even know based off nothing. How can anyone on here, much less myself give you any respect based off your behavior? They couldn't and don't, guaranteed. This was a fun thread to see what some of you would do in a survivalist scenario similar to what's shown on tv, and instead of not responding or giving quality answers you instead belittled(or tried), whined, mocked, and offered nothing of value, at all. So I hope you're proud of yourself and it doesn't surprise me at all you're a "super moderator" seems like your type are always in positions of power when they shouldn't be. I can spot people just like you on IRC, even when they're on hidden status because they're always the most arrogant and aggressive, every time.

And I won't stop watching youtube videos, not at all, because people who actually know what they're doing took the time to make the videos to share their knowledge with others, and I appreciate that a great deal. I came on this forum hoping those type of people would be on here too, so I could pick their brains, but unfortunately that's not what i've found thus far. Some of you helped me pick a good knife(or so it's been said, I haven't tested it yet to know) but it's not worth all the negativity and insults. I don't know what "neck of the woods" you guys come from where that's ok, but I just find it unfortunate.

Also Rick I already said what i'd do in my first post.

Cool it kid. Your OP states that you're very inexperienced, so what gives you the qualifications to judge those who are very experienced? Sorry if some on here burst your bubble but better to find out here than somewhere in the outdoors where it's too late, right? Calling people names and making wild accusations about them does not make you right, only a hothead. Truth be told I'd trust my life to many on here in the wilds but would avoid some of the others like the plague. The members on here DO care about you, so sit down, shut up, and learn. I'm pushing 65 and I'm a little short on diplomacy. We ARE trying to help, but this ain't the way to learn, okay? :cool2:

[MichMetal]

Cool it kid. Your OP states that you're very inexperienced, so what gives you the qualifications to judge those who are very experienced? Sorry if some on here burst your bubble but better to find out here than somewhere in the outdoors where it's too late, right? Calling people names and making wild accusations about them does not make you right, only a hothead. Truth be told I'd trust my life to many on here in the wilds but would avoid some of the others like the plague. The members on here DO care about you, so sit down, shut up, and learn. I'm pushing 65 and I'm a little short on diplomacy. We ARE trying to help, but this ain't the way to learn, okay? :cool2:

What name did I call anyone? And if you and others mocking me because you feel its your right for whatever reason is "helping" no thanks. I do respect my elders and since you're an elder so I respect you for that reason. I don't feel I personally insulted you or anyone else, but if I did I apologize.

[Rick]

This thread is going nowhere fast. I've closed it.

MM - If you want to setup a scenario then follow the guidelines that Crash linked you to. That will give you a much better chance of establishing a "real" situation and perhaps better responses.

I forgot you posted your response in the OP. Sorry 'bout that.