Master the art of wilderness survival with Dave Canterbury's "Advanced Bushcraft"
- Dave Canterbury's "Advanced Bushcraft" is a detailed manual for long-term wilderness survival, focusing on thriving (not just surviving) through advanced skills and resource management.
- Central to the book is the "Ten Cs of Survivability" (e.g., cutting tools, combustion devices), with explanations on effective tool use and kit-building for comfort and extended stays.
- Chapters cover using natural resources (e.g., trees for medicine/adhesives), crafting wooden tools and fire-starting techniques like bow-and-drill or solar fire, emphasizing adaptability.
- Includes shelter construction (log cabins, earthen structures), food preservation (plant/meat), hide tanning and ethical trapping – highlighting self-reliance and environmental harmony.
- Covers knot-tying, blacksmithing, woodworking and crafting containers/conveyances (e.g., dugout canoes), positioning the book as essential for serious outdoors enthusiasts.
In the vast, unpredictable realm of the wilderness, where nature reigns supreme, mastering the art of survival is no small feat. Enter Dave Canterbury's "
Advanced Bushcraft: An Expert Field Guide to the Art of Wilderness Survival," a comprehensive manual that transcends the basics and equips readers for long-term survival in the untamed world.
This book is not just a guide; it is a testament to the dedication and
meticulous preparation required to thrive in the wild. Canterbury, a renowned survival expert, dedicates his book to his wife and father, acknowledging the support and work ethic that have been instrumental in his journey. This personal touch underscores the human element behind the expertise, reminding readers that every master was once a student.
The book opens with an introduction that sets the tone for what lies ahead. Canterbury emphasizes that "Advanced Bushcraft" is about elevating one's skills to a level where survival transforms into thriving. The cornerstone of this transformation is resource management. In the wilderness, one cannot rely on carrying everything needed; instead, understanding how to utilize the environment and its resources is paramount.
Central to Canterbury's philosophy is the "Ten Cs of Survivability," an expansion of the traditional "Five Cs." These essential items – cutting tools, combustion devices, containers, cordage and more – are the backbone of any
survival kit.
However, Canterbury goes beyond mere listing. He delves into the effective use of these tools, ensuring that readers not only pack wisely but also understand the nuances of each item.
The chapters of "Advanced Bushcraft" are a masterclass in wilderness survival. Chapter One, "Building Your Kit," is a detailed guide on preparation, covering everything from clothing to footwear, and emphasizing the importance of comfort for extended stays. Canterbury's tips on assembling a sleep system highlight the critical role of rest in survival.
In Chapter Two, "Natural Resources," Canterbury explores the environment's bounty. He discusses various trees and their uses, from pine resin as a natural adhesive to willow leaves for pain relief, illustrating how nature provides abundantly when one knows where to look.
Chapter Three, "Wooden Tools and Simple Machines," introduces the concept of improvising tools from natural materials. Canterbury demonstrates how to create functional and sustainable tools, from throwing sticks to simple woodland machines like wedges and levers.
"Advanced Firecraft," the fourth chapter, is a deep dive into fire-starting methods, including the bow and drill and flint and steel. Canterbury underscores the importance of mastering these techniques, especially in emergency scenarios. He also covers solar fire and the use of char material for ignition, providing a comprehensive understanding of firecraft.
Chapter Five, "Sheltering," offers a detailed guide to creating a safe and comfortable living space. Canterbury covers the Four Ws (wind, water, wood and widowmakers) and provides insights into permanent shelter options like log cabins and earthen structures. His tips on securing shelters and creating microclimates enhance the reader's ability to adapt to the environment.
The subsequent chapters cover a wide array of skills. Chapter Six focuses on "Knots, Bindings, Weaving and Looms," delving into the art of cordage and rope-making. Canterbury introduces weaving techniques and the use of looms for creating large-scale items.
Chapter Seven, "Trapping," covers animal behavior and trapping methods, emphasizing ethical considerations and respect for wildlife. Chapter Eight, "Preserving Food Sources," provides detailed instructions on processing and preserving plant-based foods and meat preservation techniques. Chapter Nine, "Hide Preservation, Tanning and Clothing Repair," guides readers through working with animal hides, from processing to crafting and repairing clothing.
Chapter 10, "Woodworking," highlights the importance of understanding different types of wood and how to work with them. Chapter 11 introduces "Blacksmithing," a skill Canterbury deems invaluable for long-term survival, providing a basic overview of the craft and the tools needed for small projects.
The final chapter, "Containers and Conveyances," emphasizes the importance of creating and using various containers and watercraft, from birch bark containers to bull boats and dugouts. Canterbury's detailed instructions ensure that readers are equipped with the knowledge to craft these essential items.
"Advanced Bushcraft" is a treasure trove of knowledge for anyone seeking to deepen their
understanding of wilderness survival. Whether you are a seasoned outdoorsperson or a beginner, this book offers valuable insights and practical tips that will serve you well in the wild.
Watch this video about Dave Canterbury's book "Advanced Bushcraft: An Expert Field Guide to the Art of Wilderness Survival."
This video is from the
BrightLearn channel on Brighteon.com.
Sources include:
Brighteon.ai
Brighteon.com
