Primitive-primitive versus Modern-primitive

So I am reading a good survival theme book with lots of discussion about cordage, and shelter, and snares, etc. I come upon a chapter section about primitive-primitive survival. Basically "naked into the woods" how do you make your own stuff and survive.

I do not think anyone is in that primitive-primitive situation. When I see fire starting discussions, I see using a nice well forged metal knife. I see using magnesium sticks. I see parashoot cord for friction bow.

Given that - I like the discussion about using our modern world to supply very inexpensive survival gear. The dollar store discussion is great!!

My point is that we are all using Modern-primitive methods for woodcraft work. This makes lots and lots of sense. The young new kids out there wanting to do this can visit thrift stores for gear. They can visit yard sales to find supplies. They can go see relatives, and friends and ask for the cast off stuff that tends to not be used.

And then they can get out in the woods and do things!!

_________________
#Les Stroud# FIVE "Ws" of survival. 1- Wood for fire. 2- Widowmakers - to fall on you, or bite, etc. 3- Wigglies making sure they do not get into your bedding. 4- Weather - make sure you have shelter 5 - Water as much as a gallon a day.

The opposite side of this topic ---

Are we training men and women to have the confidence to be HOMELESS if they get tired of this modern world and its stressful existence?

Or are we training our men and women to have false confidence that they can handle long pilgramige type of events with minimal gear? (trips to Europe on the trains, hike the Appalachian trail, visit the holy land, etc.?)

_________________
#Les Stroud# FIVE "Ws" of survival. 1- Wood for fire. 2- Widowmakers - to fall on you, or bite, etc. 3- Wigglies making sure they do not get into your bedding. 4- Weather - make sure you have shelter 5 - Water as much as a gallon a day.

What book is it that you are reading OR1994 ?.
I really like that kind of stuff. I believe that alot of people would not make it with the real primitive way of living or surviving if they didn't have the modern methods. Its very tuff to survive with nothing & start making stuff to make life in the bush easyer. That is a challenge i would love to try some time.
I as well am guilty of having the modern primitive things to get by. It would be the altimate challenge to anyone
To try this " real " survival from having nothing, to being able to build up supplies & shelter to live. Cool

Cheers.

_________________
A Knifeless Man is a Lifeless Man
Canadian To The Core
Carry Less by Knowing More
Knowledge Weighs Nothing

Last edited by Drummer Dave on Mon Aug 27, 2007 9:22 pm; edited 1 time in total

Have I ever ventured naked into the woods? .... No.... but I am able to make fire using a few different primitive methods without a knife or modern cordage. I can make a shelter, procure water, forage for food in most conditions. And I suppose I could even do it in the nude.... Maybe I post some pics... You'll have to degauss your monitors afterwards.

Everyone should learn how to do it all with nothing... Then you can go back to your "modern primitive" practices with the knowledge that you've expanded your comfort zone that much more... BUT I WARN YOU... once you move to the next level, its hard to take steps back. Kinda like when you first use a firesteel/ferro rod... to pic up that bic lighter, almost seems like cheating, now.... doesn't it.

Rick

_________________
"Arrogance, I'm above that sort of thing."

Drummer Dave wrote:

What book is it that you are reading OR1994 ?.
I really like that kind of stuff. I believe that alot of people would not make it with the real primitive way of living or surviving if they didn't have the modern methods. Its very tuff to survive with nothing & start making stuff to make life in the bush easyer. That is a challenge i would love to try some time.
I as well am guilty of having the modern primitive things to get by. It would be the altimate challenge to anyone
To try this " real " survival from having nothing, to being able to build up supplies & shelter to live. Cool

Cheers.

I am reading PRIMITIVE WILDERNESS SKILLS by John & Geri McPherson

_________________
#Les Stroud# FIVE "Ws" of survival. 1- Wood for fire. 2- Widowmakers - to fall on you, or bite, etc. 3- Wigglies making sure they do not get into your bedding. 4- Weather - make sure you have shelter 5 - Water as much as a gallon a day.