As a child, you may have had walkie talkies given as a present for your birthday or perhaps Christmas. When we were young, these gadgets were so fun to use and to play with. Pretending to be cops or secret agents is one defining factor of my childhood. When younger, however, we could not fully understand the capabilities that these devices actually have. These multi-tasking devices are versatile, and it’s nice to be able to have something that limits the number of tools you need to carry with you.

The term “walkie talkie” is a bit of an umbrella term, similar to ‘phone’. it describes a type of device, but not the specifications on each one. Handheld radios operate on different frequencies, and some have limited range and will not work with CB (Citizen’s Band Radio Service). Other handheld radios are designed to do just that, and these may be referred to as CBs occasionally.

So with that, the question is will a walkie talkie work with a CB? According to various radio enthusiasts, it can, however, it depends on the frequency capabilities of your walkie talkie. If the walkie talkie works on a frequency of a CB radio, at 27 megahertz, then the walkie talkie can communicate albeit very limited. Higher priced and quality hand held radios tend not to pick up CB chatter because they broadcast on a higher frequency.

How do Different Walkie Talkies Work?

The term “walkie talkie” is considered slang for handheld two-way radios; there are multiple determining factors as relates to how each specific walkie talkie works. This is determined by the frequency range, the band, and how your radio operates. Some hand-held radios will require licensing, such as the GMRS and HAM. However, most do not. Portable radios can be called different names, but whichever you choose to call it, it is the same device.

The only differences to note between portable radios are the channels or frequency they are designed to use. That being said, another difference that will have no impact on how these operate is the appearance. Some may be bulkier, or more comfortable and user-friendly.  Click here for my article on top 2-way communicators that I highly recommend.

AM vs FM

Radio communication exists through the combined use of high and low-frequency use. The high signal is the carrier signal, where the low signal would be the message signal. Regulating between these two signals is how a message is able to travel over a distance clearly. This is the same type of principle used when listening to the radio while driving or at home. There are pros and cons for both type of frequencies, depending on what you require the use for. For reference, here are FM and AM defined.

AM– when we refer to the term AM, we are actually talking about Amplitude Modulation. This was first used in the 1870s and its conception came to be roughly 60 years before FM radio. AM is more prone to interference and static, even though it uses less power and resources. That being said, AM frequencies do travel further than FM.

FM– As mentioned above, FM was discovered in the 1930s, roughly 60 years after AM radio. this is the clearer signal of the two and uses more power. The circuits required for use here are far more complex, thus limiting the range which gives a better connection and reception.

This brief explanation will not cover the complexity and performance of each different frequency but will give you a basic understanding of the two.

Radio Varieties

Motorola was the first company to introduce the portable handheld radio, which operated on AM. This was called the Handi Talkie, and knowing that we can see where the term “walkie talkie” came from. Perhaps not the best name for the product, but it was revolutionary none the less.

The FCC determines the names and requirements for the different frequencies; in case you ever are in an emergency situation and need to use a radio that you are unfamiliar with, it is a good Idea to learn what these are. Here is a quick reference for radio frequency use:

• Family Radio Service (FRS)– The frequencies associated with the FRS radios are generally shared with the GMRS (listed below), the average range is roughly two miles; however, this range can be less if there is interference from a building or structure. There are no licensing or restrictions with this frequency, which is why we were able to as children use walkie talkies straight out of the box.
• General Mobile Radio Service (GMRS)– As stated above, these radios are almost identical to the FRS. However, this is one exception that is worth noting. This frequency does require a license, but one license does cover the entire family and does not come with any age restrictions.
• Private Land Mobile Radio Service (PLMRS)– more commonly known as Business Radio Service, this radio type is used for, obviously, businesses. Usually, repeater capable comes with great customization and is programmable. All varieties are available for use with this frequency: handheld, mobile, and fixed.
• Multi-Use Radio Service (MURS)– These radios are more limited in availability, but boast less traffic, making them more popular among users. these radios tend to be more durable and less susceptible to damage than the GMRS and FRS radios.
• Amateur Radio Service (Ham Radio)– HAM radios require a license, with no age specification associated. these radios are considered to be for recreational use by the FCC, and there are three levels of licensing which will determine the frequencies available for use by the user.
• Aviation Service (Air Band)– As you may expect from the name, this type of radio is designed to work at higher altitudes and is most often used for navigation. you will need a license if flying internationally.
• Marine Radio Service (Marine Band)– the signal from radios of this type are carried over water, and thus tend to travel further, similar to the air band radios. These radios are not only used for ship-to-ship communication but also may be used as a distress signal. Like the above-mentioned air band radios, these will need a license if traveling internationally.
• Citizen’s Band Radio Service (CB)– These radios are not widely used anymore, and reached their peak of popularity in the late 1900’s. that being said, it is still popular with crowded channels. This radio type is typically the kind used by those in the trucking and transportation industry.

What Other Wireless or Radio Devices are Cross-Compatible?

This is one of those either complex or simple issues; any device that is designed to receive or put out radio frequencies can be cross-compatible in theory. You would need to be within the correct frequency range in order to pick up or send out a signal. This is why sometime you may pick up a signal that sounds out of place compared to the other messages you tend to receive on your device. For instance, sometimes a police radio can pick up a frequency from a baby monitor, and vice versa. Wireless TV headsets have been known to receive a radio signal unexpectedly and unplanned as well.

Best practice is to remember that no channel can be completely secure, much like a phone crossing lines. That is a reason the walkie talkies we grew up with have different channels, to make sure that if there is interference you would simply be able to switch the channel until you found one that was interference free and would pick up the other signal.

Avoid Trouble

It is important to note that anyone with the knowledge and skills to modify a radio for wider compatibility, in most cases this is completely illegal activity. Any device that picks up or receives a radio signal can be modified, but it is advised not to modify or alter any device to pick up another signal without knowing and accepting the ramifications of doing so.

Final Thoughts

Any type of walkie talkie or radio can be useful, and determining what your needs are for such a device is the most important part, and should be done before purchasing one. Being able to communicate over long distances has always been useful, and is more useful in today’s modern age as we continue to expand as a society. Even though your needs may require a large initial investment, it will pay for itself in the long run. Just make sure that the radio you purchase not only fits your needs but is also cross-compatible. If you want to know which 2 way radios I recommend, please click here.

Additional Questions

Can Someone Track my Walkie Talkie? Unless the radio you are using has a GPS integrated into the design, it is very difficult to track the exact location. That being said, there are still a couple of ways that a radio can be tracked using the signal it is using to transmit. However, it would need to be actively transmitting in order to do so.

Will Signal Jammers Interfere With my Radio? The short answer to this one is absolutely they will. That is what they were designed to do, and as such, they are very effective at accomplishing their purpose. They will jam your signal, and keep you from transmitting or receiving messages.

How do I Get a Better Signal on my Radio? As with any device of this type, make sure to check the batteries and make sure they are new before taking your radio anywhere remote. Finding a signal repeater, or upgrading your antenna can be beneficial in boosting your signal. As with cell phones, higher altitude and making sure there are no building or natural barriers will help to strengthen the signal.

There’s no doubt we live in a remarkably advanced and technologically capable world. Yet, it’s easy to forget this world has one major flaw. The vast majority of our machines and devices – including life preserving apparatus – operates on electricity. So, we must ask the question, what will work after an EMP attack? What is your family’s chance of surviving an attack on our country’s electrical systems?

You may pride yourself on being technologically savvy, and, yes, in many survival situations these skills will serve you well. In the event of an EMP attack, however, you won’t be able to rely on computers, mobile phone chargers, microwaves, ovens, refrigerators even household boilers, if your heating system runs on electric, or well pumps. Thus, anything that is connected to the electrical grid or which have computer chips will in almost all cases not work. The point is, you’ll need different skills to survive. You can acquire these skills; it just takes time, patience and a determination to be prepared for anything.

What Is An EMP and Why Is It So Destructive?

First, let’s start with a closer look at EMP attacks and what they mean for those caught up in them. The term stands for ‘electromagnetic pulse’ and it’s a type of electromagnetic radiation caused by a nuclear explosion. Those nukes North Korea has threatened America with for years? Theoretically, they’re capable of knocking out electrical systems if they’re deployed anywhere over the United States.

There are various phases that occur after deployment of a nuclear EMP. They’re called ‘waves’ and each presents challenges for those trying to survive.

Wave E1- The Flash

The first wave is called E1. It is experienced as a literal flash in the atmosphere. Most people never see E1 for themselves because it happens so quickly. If you’re indoors, for example, you might not know it has occurred until you notice other disturbances or try to turn on an electric device.

E1 rushes electrical systems and overloads them. It surpasses voltages and, as a result, destroys wiring and circuits. Many of the items in your home – toasters, stereos, television sets – may be damaged at this point. The only way to prevent this damage is to have a high level (not a standard commercial product) surge protector operating at the time of the attack.

E2 – The Pulse

The second wave is called E2. It’s also referred to as an ‘intermediate time pulse.’ This wave occurs almost immediately after the first, often within a second or two. Visually, it looks similar to a lightning strike. Again, you may not notice at first.

It causes further damage to electrical systems and the electrical items around us. It should be noted that it’s the cumulative force of E1 and E2 that makes them dangerous. E2, for instance, wouldn’t be all that destructive in isolation. Even basic surge protectors can handle an overload from a lightning type event. Together though, the two can cause chaos.

E3 – The Worldwide Pulse

Lastly, we get to wave E3. This is when we see potentially irreparable damage on a global scale. E3 has been compared to a geomagnetic storm in that it has the power to knock out electrical systems all around the world. It influences our planet’s magnetic field and, when the consequences start, they are likely to be catastrophic for many.

The pulses called by E3 are much longer lasting than those at E1 and E2. They can last as long as minutes and they create quasi-DC currents which fry apparatus essential for survival such as electrical transformers. In the event of an EMP attack, massive losses are predicted within the AC power grid because governments are not prepared for the consequences.

What Will Work After an EMP Attack?

Some devices have a much better chance of survival after an EMP attack than others. It’s the reason preppers and survivalists spend many years collecting specific, items, objects and equipment. The most helpful tip is to steer clear of solid state electronic components.

Often, semiconductors and transistors are the first devices to get knocked out by an EMP because they convert other types of energy into electrical energy. Unfortunately, it’s a useless exchange in a situation where electricity has become dysfunctional. What you need is technology that operates without relying on an electrical exchange.

1. Handheld Torches

The chance of battery operated torches being affected is very small, especially if you pick torches with heavy-duty metal casing around the battery compartment. This is fortunate because it’s one of the items you absolutely cannot do without in a blackout situation.

2. Solar Panels

One of the best investments you can make, if you’re prepping to survive an EMP attack, is solar panel cells. For obvious reasons, they’re a great thing to have when the electric goes down. The best advice for solar panel owners is to switch them off if you get prior warning of the attack. This will prevent connecting wires from being damaged. Nevertheless, it’s best to keep spare wires and other components in your survival kit just in case you need to replace them after the attack.

3. Standard Batteries

The vast majority of batteries would be unharmed by an EMP. So, make sure you have plenty of spares to hand. The lack of wires and presence of sturdy metal casings mean they are robust enough to survive and keep essential devices running.

4. Some Types of Automobile

It’s difficult to say for sure which types of cars will survive EMP pulses. The best advice is to choose something very simple. This generally means an older car without complex electrical systems – the stereotypical ‘clunker’ should suffice. It may seem a bit unstylish now but you’ll be the one with transportation when the time comes.

5. LED Light Sources

LED lights are one of the most reliable items you can have in your survival kit because they are not vulnerable to electromagnetic pulses. You may want to consider investing in LED flashlights and battery powered LED lamps for your home.

Besides the suggested protective items below, there is a unit that can be attached to your home, generator, vehicle, solar, or ham radio that will prevent the devastating effects of an EMP. EMP Shield is a highly rated and tested device approved by the US Military that will eliminate the EMP threat. To find out more about EMP Shield, Click Here.

Is There a Way to Preserve Existing Devices?

Technically, there are some ways you can prevent the devices you use every day from being fried and rendered not operational. The benefit of this is you don’t necessarily need to buy a kit full of battery operated or surge protected items. The downside, however, is there’s no guarantee there will even be electric to power them after the E3 wave (at least for a time).

So, it’s up to you to decide the best course of action. You can, of course, do both – prep a kit with secondary back up items and protect the primary devices you use every day. There are many different ways to prepare for an EMP attack. Your choices will largely depend on where you live, who is in your family and how much you rely on electric right now. Faraday bags exist to protect ones sensitive electronic devices. One available on Amazon provides enough room to store numerous electronic appliances and equipment.

The DIY Faraday Cage

One of the simplest options, at least on a small scale, is to create what’s known as a rudimentary Faraday Cage. Now, this is a very basic version that can be made in a relatively short space of time. It is not foolproof. It is a makeshift measure.

All you have to do is wrap electrical devices in metal before the blast occurs. The quickest way to do this is to wrap an item in tinfoil. On a larger scale, you could place your devices in a metal container or locker and bury it safely underground. Some people – serious preppers with the time and cash to invest heavily in survival tactics – even pay to have metal shopping containers filled with their items and buried. A relative inexpensive alternative,  an aluminum garbage can,  that I highly recommend is available on Amazon. Click here for the latest pricing.

How Long Is an EMP Blackout Likely to Last?

We’re not entirely sure how long an EMP attack would last. It depends on a range of different factors including the size of the blast and how much damage it does on a national or global scale. It is thought electrical systems and transformers could be back up and running within a week or possibly even days.

While it doesn’t sound like long, the effects could be catastrophic for our country. Yes, you could survive without electricity in your home if you’re prepared. However, consider what might happen to our telecommunications, those in hospitals, police databases and most perhaps importantly, military defense systems.

It is a serious threat and, though the government doesn’t talk about it often, it is a possibility and we should be preparing for it. For now, the important thing to remember is, if you’re prepared, you stand a very good chance of making it on your own until the lights come back on. Be vigilant. Teach your family the warning signs. And take care of yourself and your pets.

 

From the darkest mists of time, man has had to devise the best means at hand to protect himself and his family. Today, our police forces do what they can, but they’re encumbered by innumerable laws and ordinances that at a glance would seem to protect the criminal rather than his victim. Everyone knows or should know, that an officer of the law can’t do anything to help a victim until after a crime has been committed. This is particularly true for the person who is accosted at night getting into or out of his or her vehicle, an actual intrusion into a victim’s place of residence or hotel room.

A great many persons keep a firearm in the home. In most states, they can only carry them in a vehicle if under lock and key with the ammunition locked safely in another location. If a person does keep a firearm in the home, there comes a question of safety. Believe us, if a firearm is in the house and not under lock and key, that kid’s going to find it. It’s that simple. However, if the firearm is kept in the safe or other safe place and must be unlocked and loaded, it’s not reasonable to ask an intruder to wait while the gun is loaded.

Some, in an emergency, rely on knives. While in most areas switchblades are illegal, many very dangerous lock-blade knives are on the market. And in the home knives are always to be found, but a knife is a close-up weapon and not only messy but often can be turned on the homeowner. Not a good option But there’s a simple, practical solution, and you may already have it right in your home, A good old baseball bat. But you might still ask yourself a baseball bat as a Self-Defense Weapon? It is a Yes, but according to baseball bat users, a bat must be modified by sawing off the end of the barrel, which will give you better leverage, power and control.

If you don’t have a bat, they’re easily found in sporting goods stores, are relatively inexpensive and just about anyone can carry one. Many years ago, President Theodore (Teddy) Roosevelt is quoted as having said his motto was: “Walk softly and carry a big stick”. That makes pretty good sense. When you go out at night in quiet areas there’s no law against carrying a baseball bat. Most of your strength is in your upper body and with that solid bat in hand, you can give somebody a very good whack. A whack to remember.

• So What’s the Best Baseball Bat for Self-Defense?

There are bats with shorter handles that might work better for you, and then if a wooden bat seems too heavy to wield properly, there are aluminum bats that can do the job. One that I highly recommend can be found on Amazon. Check it out here.

Top 8 Types of Bats

Baseball players know already that for pros, a wooden bat is mandatory. But for us amateurs, we have plenty of different bats and styles to choose from, You can go down to Dick’s or Big 5 or other sporting good outlets in your area and check out many different bats to see which would be best suited to your needs. Some are considerably heavier than others and you aren’t confined to wooden bats. You can buy any bat you like. In no particular order, here’s a list of common wooden bats and some of their characteristics:

1. A bat made of ash has some flexibility, but over time it may have a tendency to chip and flake.
2. A bat of birchwood is flexible as well as durable. Still, being softer, it can dent more easily. You want to put the dent on the aggressor rather than the bat!
3. We like a bamboo bat. Bamboo has great strength and is not only light and flexible as well as durable. As an added perk, bamboo is a renewable resource.
4. There are alloy bats. These are blends of aluminum other meals. This one is durable but a bit on the heavy side.
5. All-Aluminum. This is an excellent choice in that it’s light, durable and easier to swing hard.
6. There are also composite bats. These are more expensive but even lighter than aluminum. These are a combination of chemical materials. They aren’t noted for durability.
7. Many prefer a bat made of sturdy maple. This wood is dense and heavy. There is also a downside in that it doesn’t always hold up well in moist climates.
8. Another old standby is hickory along with some other woods but you’re unlikely to find any near you, so we didn’t include that one.

• Styles

Alongside the consideration of material, there is a style to consider. A bat made of one single piece. It will be strong and rather inflexible. There are hybrids available as well. These use different materials for the handle and the barrel. These are more flexible and when striking something, they bat doesn’t vibrate in you4 and. If you intend to keep a bat in the house, the short bat might be your better choice. In close quarters, a long bat might be hard to use properly.

The best advice for that is to find a style that suits you. Once you have that, give some thought to just how and where you’re going to keep it. If you need it you need it now and if you can’t remember just where you left it, you know you’re in trouble.

• Making your bat an obvious danger

It is possible to take extra steps to make your bat an even greater weapon. You can saw off part of the bat, making it easier to swing in a tight spot. Some even core out part of the interior and fill it with lead or some other metal. This creates a must more formidable weapon.

As to carrying it about in the street, everyone will immediately see that you’re aren’t returning from a baseball game and a modified bat on the street is guaranteed to create attention. And then you’ve undoubtedly seen bats wrapped in barbed or razor wire on TV. This looks great on TV but it’s really not a good choice for most people.

• Carrying a bat instead of a firearm

States differ greatly with respect to firearms. Some permit open carry while most do not. Concealed carry varies too. In some states, concealed carry permits are easy to obtain, while in others, a need must be shown. In some, it’s very difficult (unless you’re on friendly terms with the mayor or sheriff). And too, a firearm requires a certain amount of training if you intend to carry one around. Many individuals have been injured or even killed while playing around with a firearm. And as mentioned earlier, with children in the home, firearms are just not a good choice.

• Legal Considerations

When it comes to an actual event, there are legal issues. The legality of how and why you may have used a bat to defend yourself can be a thorny question if you’re required to appear before a judge. The best advice here is that any time such an issue should arise, you’re going to need a lawyer. The best you can afford.

Right or wrong, a good lawyer can juggle precedence, the situation and other factors, such as having friendly relations with the judge. So if you’re ever required to appear in court because you used a bat or any other device in self-defense, you’re going to need that good lawyer.

• Using Common Sense

Unless you’re the team coach, carrying a bat around is going to attract attention, and not the kind most people want. People will consider you a weirdo and probably avoid you.

• It’s Better to be Safe then Sorry

A piece of good advice is to inform yourself about the laws in your area. When it comes to an event in which you actually use it to defend yourself, there’s a dividing point in which you strike the attacker hard enough to cause him/her to fall to the ground, perhaps you’ve seriously injured or broken an arm or leg. That’s self-defense. If you incapacitate your attacker and then continue beating him, perhaps even killing him, then you’re going to have a difficult time justifying self-defense. For those who now see the need to get a bat for self defense, click here to find the latest pricing for a min-bat I highly recommend.

• A Few Final Thoughts

A bat is a useful addition to any household. In nearly every state a bat is perfectly legal to own and to keep a bat in your car.

Even if you’re a gun owner, a baseball bat is still a good alternative choice to keep around the house. And just as with firearms, it’s a good idea to go down in the basement or back yard and practice with the bat, deciding just how it would work best in case of the need arising for self-defense.

Just to show good intentions, you might want to buy a baseball mitt and a couple of baseballs to keep with your bat to shoe any interested parties that you didn’t have the bat in the house simple as a weapon.

• Frequent questions

1. Is a Bat Really Going to be Effective?

The answer is both yes and no. Going up against an armed intruder it may not be of much help. But on the other hand, you can do a lot of damage with your bat, damage as in broken bones or even cause death.

2. How About Mini-Bat… Are They Legal?

Most sporting equipment is legal to own or carry in a car, or on the street (in some cases). These bats are usually considered as decorative items. They can be quite effective in some cases. However, if you use a bat or any other device offensively, then you may find yourself in a heap of trouble when standing before a judge.

3. Well, what weapons are legal to carry for self-defense?

As already discussed, the problem most weapons for self-defense is owning one, where to keep it, and how not to look like a man on a mission carrying a baseball bat to the mall for a shopping trip. Any sort of knife, sword, firearm and even such items as brass knuckles fall under different laws in different regions of the country. There are other means for self-defense that may be considered unintentional weapons. A short but heavy chain or even a tree branch might be used as long as it appears that you “just happened to have one at the time”

One final little weapon that goes unnoticed in airports, government buildings and wherever you go without attracting attention is a ballpoint pen. Stabbing someone with a pen can do a lot of damage. In the worst case scenario, you might stab an attacker in the eye. That should at least give you time to step away from the immediate danger.

 

A pocket knife is one of the most useful and convenient weapons to have with you at all times. Still, you can get into trouble for carrying one. Depending on the state that you are in, you’ll need a carry permit and the laws regarding it will be different.

So, the first thing that you have to worry about when you’re considering getting a pocket knife is to really know and understand your rights to do it. You don’t want to get jail time or anything like that just because you didn’t do your research. Since the law and other requirements can change from state to state, the best you can do is to do your research.

Now, once you do that you can begin to contemplate having your pocket knife. There are many reasons to do so, and some will make sense to you more than others. For example, a pocket knife may not replace a firearm for you, but it can still be a great asset for survivalists, campers, and for self-defense.

Now, before you worry about the exact model that you want to buy or the size, you should consider if it fits your lifestyle and what are the reasons for you to get yours. That’s why in this article you’re going to see the main reasons for you to get one.

It goes without saying that a pocket knife is beyond self-defense.  A lot of people think that weapons are only for self-defense or something that people have as a hobby, but they’re useful and if you’re in an SHTF situation it will be crucial that you not only have one but that you know how to use it.

Pocket knives are so useful that they have been used by humanity for a long time. The first models were found in Austria and Spain, dating back to the iron age. There are also models that date back to the pre-Roman era. They have rough metal blades and different kinds of handles.

Even though the pocket knife seems something simple. After all, it is only a knife that folds, you have around 3 main models that you can choose from like the peasant knife, slip joint knife, penknife, and many other subcategories under those main categories. Depending on the intended use you may want a different model.

Again, be cautious about the law in regards to pocketknives. In the United States, pocket knives are regulated by state, municipal, and federal law. In most places, you can have one, but some places it is prohibited the possession of it. Most of the time, pocket knives are seen as tools, but sometimes they can be considered weapons.

Still, there are many legit reasons for you to choose to carry a pocket knife. Below are the main 15 that will convince you once and for all about the usefulness of a pocket knife. Click here for a knife I highly recommend that is both discrete and compact that you can carry with you everyday.

Self Defense

Unfortunately, the world is a dangerous place. No matter where you live, you never know when you’re going to need to protect yourself from an aggressor. That’s why knowing basic self-defense is so important.

If you live in a big city, you know that violence increases every year. Every year more people move to big cities, trying to make their living there. The problem is that many do not succeed.

That’s when those people choose to do wrong things. Not everyone, of course, but enough to increase the violence rates. Whatever it is the reason for it, you must know how to protect yourself.

Carrying a pocket knife can be a life savior in those moments. The pocket knife if one of the best choices you can make when it comes to self-defense weapons.

• 1.    It easy to carry
• 2.    It’s efficient
• 3.    It’s light enough
• 4.    It’s resistant
• 5.    It’s affordable

Now, when it comes to looking for a self- defense weapon, as you can see, the pocket knife checks all the boxes that you may need. Still, it’s important to point out that as with any weapon, you should learn how to properly use it to make sure that you master it.

First Aid

Imagine that you’re in the woods hunting or camping. You’re looking for a good spot or just exploring your surrounds. As you know you have to be careful to where you lean on or where you step, but still for a minute there that you weren’t as careful, you get hurt. You cut your leg on the branch of a tree.

Now, imagine another scenario. You’re hiking in the mountains. It’s the early morning and the sun didn’t even arise yet. There is a lot of beauty surrounding you, and you get distracted. That’s when you misstep and hurt your ankle on a rock.

In both scenarios, you’re going to need to know some first-aid practices. As much as you may think you’re tough, it’s good to take care of any wound before you go back home and go see a doctor if you have to. Even minor cuts can become a serious problem if left untreated.

So, a pocket knife is perfect to help you on a first-aid scenario. Not only with the preparation of medicine or helping you cut a piece of cloth, but a pocket knife can also be useful to help you with other things beyond the first-aid in itself. For example, during a car crash, seat belts become extra hard to get rid of. Having a pocket knife can help you cut it off and save lives.

Fire Building

If you’ve ever camped, you know how important it is to know how to build fire. During cold nights, or even if all you need is to cook, you’re going to need to build a fire. That’s when the pocket knife can be helpful. That’s when carrying a pocket knife is a good idea.

The main task that the folder will help you to accomplish is with preparing the branches to start the fire. If you ever built a fire you know that choosing the right log and getting thin layers off a branch, are important parts of making, building a fire, work for you.

Now, if you want a pocket knife, specifically to build fires, the best you can do is to make sure that whatever model you choose, it has a strong metal blade and a strong handle. You’re going to need a resistant model for shaving off small branches from the woods that you’re going to build the fire with.

So, to recap, pocket knives are great tools to build a fire as well. Even though people only see it as a weapon and think it can only be used for self-defense, this is an incredible tool for building a fire. Just make sure that you do get a tough one that will resist the tasks required to do such a task.

Cooking

Imagine that you’re camping. Sooner or later, you’re going to have to get something to eat. Whether or not you took a little stove with you or you’re eating some canned food, a pocket knife will be among the top 3 tools that you’re going to need to finish preparing your meal.

In most situations, like when you’re chilling out in your house, you’re not going to need a pocket knife to cook because you’ll have a tool that was designed specifically for that. Now, sometimes if you’re camping or even during an SHTF situation, you may find out that a pocket knife can make everything easier for you.

For example, a pocket knife can replace a regular kitchen knife when you’re preparing the food, cutting and peeling vegetables, and opening cans. Some of those things are really hard or even impossible to do with your bare hands. Since you never know when you’re going to need it, carrying a pocket knife for cooking is not a weird reason to do it.

So, if you really think about it, you’ll realize that the pocket knife is not only the most versatile but one of the most important things that you can have with you at all times. You can build a fire and cook with it. All this besides defending yourself. It gets even better because there 12 other reasons for you to carry one.

Eating

Besides helping you prepare the food the pocket knife can help you with eating it. Obviously, certain kinds of food are really hard to just eat it with your bare hands. Even if you have a fork or a spoon available with you, the pocket knife may still be crucial. Certain meat, for instance, is really hard to eat if you don’t have something to cut it.

There are also other things like certain seafood that will require that you have a tool to make possible eating it. For example, oysters require that you have something to open them. The point is that no matter what you’re having for dinner, a pocket knife can, not only make it easier but actually make it at all possible for you to do so.

That’s also another reason to keep your knife always sharp and clean. You don’t want to have to use it for eating while it’s not really clean or having to use it and the whole thing is difficult because it is not sharp.

Knives tend to lose its sharpness a little too easy, so do your maintenance all the time. A good way is to check it every week. You can have a different routine depending on how frequently you use it and for what you use the knife.

Hunting

In a survival situation, you’re going to have to hunt your own food at some point. If you’re just camping, you’ll be likely to have a weapon to do the hunting, so it is more likely that you’re going to need the knife in special circumstances.

Anyway, if you’re hunting small mammals and small animals in general, a knife can be really useful. The knife can not only be useful for hunting but also for cleaning the meat.

That’s why your knife should always be sharp. You don’t want to hunt with a dull blade. Imagine that you’re out there into the woods, trying to find something that you can eat and your most important tool isn’t working at all. It’s frustrating.

Now, depending on the animal that you’re hunting, it’s not a good idea to use the same blade to cut the hair off, clean the meat, cook it, and eat it. There may be risks of contamination, so use different blades in this case, if it’s an option at all.

So, just make sure that the knife is sharp and, if you can, don’t use the same blade for everything. Also, for hunting, a tactical model is probably the ideal model for you. They’re resistant and allow you to perform strong attacks.

Fishing

Another great reason to carry a pocket knife is that it can be quite useful for fishing. It may seem that the pocket knife works for pretty much everything, and it is because it does. Among many other things, a folder is a great tool for fishing.

Now, you’ll hardly catch any fish just by trying to stab them with the knife. The best strategy that you can use if you’re improvising, is to wrap the knife around a branch. Make the knife the blade of a spear.

Another thing that the pocket knife can help you with is that if you do have the material to build a fishing net, you’re going to need a knife to cut things off. Even if you’re in a more relaxed situation with all the fishing tackle that you have.

Besides helping you catch the fish, you can use the pocket knife to help you prepare the fish. After all, you’ll want to cook it. An important part of preparing fish is cleaning the insides.

The only way to properly clean the insides of a fish is to have a knife to help you do it. If you don’t clean the fish the right way, it won’t taste good, and it may not even be a good thing depending on the fish that you caught.

Cutting Wire And Rope

You never know when you’re going to need to cut a wire or a rope. The variety of scenarios that this can be required are limitless. For example, if someone attacks you and tries to ties your arms or legs. You can use a pocket knife to get rid of it.

If you’re trying to get inside a place that is locked with a wire, you can use the pocket knife for it. Both wires and ropes don’t allow you to tear it with sheer physical strength. That’s why a pocket knife is so useful. Just always keep it sharp.

Now, you may also need the knife to cut the wire and the rope in better circumstances, besides being attacked by someone. You may need to cut the rope or wire in your house. Although in most cases you’re going to be carrying the pocket knife outside of your house.

The point is that you won’t need it just for serious, dangerous situations. You can perfectly use it in a safe place but that you still don’t have other options for tools to help you out. The important thing is that this is enough of a reason for you to carry a pocket knife.

Camping

As in the examples of hunting, fishing, and cooking camping is a reason to carry a pocket knife. Even if you camp in a safe place, you should have a pocket knife to protect yourself. After all, if you’re out there in the wild, you don’t know what can happen.

Cutting the ropes may also be another thing that you’re going to need while building your tent. Building a fire is also an essential part of camping. Maybe all the reasons above can be reasons within the camping scenario.

So, if you’re into camping, carrying a pocket knife is a priority. You must carry one on every camping trip that you do. Especially if you like to go old-school and camp with the least number of tools from the modern world. For example, without cell phones, batteries, and lighters.

Just make sure that the blade, or blades if your model has more than one, is sharp before you head out to your camping place. Also, be careful with certain uses that you do give to the knife because it will make the blade dull faster. For example, opening cans is the easiest and fastest way to make that happen.

Digging

In an ideal world, you’ll always have a shovel with you if you need to dig a hole, but that’s not always possible. The best you can do in this case is to have a pocket knife. It will not be an easy task but it’s doable. You can totally dig a hole with a pocket knife if you have to.

Now, it’s important to point out that we’re not talking about digging a huge hole in this case. That would take an eternity. Still, you can use a pocket knife to dig a small hole for hunting small animals.

The point is that this is an amazing tool for that. Since you can’t predict every time that digging a hole will be necessary, if you carry the pocket knife with you, you won’t find yourself without a tool. The only thing that will require of you is patience because it will take a while.

So, keep your blade sharp and your knife in your pocket. This way you can be always prepared for everything. When you think about it, it’s amazing all the different uses that such a small tool can have. That is more than enough of a reason to carry the folder with you all the time.

Grooming

Ok, this will only be necessary for a camping or SHTF situation. Still, if you don’t have access to a razor, having a pocket knife can be quite helpful to your grooming routine. You won’t be able to shave a perfect beard, but you can trim pretty much everything.

You just need the blade to be sharp and be careful to not cut your face. Especially camping, cutting your skin may cause an infection, which can be pretty bad. So, make sure the blade is sharp and be careful with what you’re doing.

Now, the pocket knife may help you not only with your beard but also with your hair. Even though your hair does not grow as fast as your beard, eventually you may need to cut off.

If you think that since you would only go for something like this in an SHTF situation, you still have to consider that you never know when it will happen and where you’re going to be. So, it’s a good idea to carry your pocket knife with you.

Mapping

Let’s imagine for a second your next camping trip. You go to a new place that you’ve been dying to visit. Everything seems cooler there. Even the trees are different from where you’re used to camp. Now, what you weren’t counting on was with you getting lost.

Now, imagine another scenario. You go hiking. As you know, you wake up early, pack everything, and head to the mountains to see the sunrise. It could be a perfect day, but you got off track and got lost.

In both scenarios, you have to find your way out. Now, if you carry your pocket knife with you at all times, you can use it to mark every place that you have been already in.

It’s very common for people that are lost to pass by the same spot more than once. Now, with a pocket knife, you can mark the trees, rocks, the ground, pretty much anywhere. This way it can help you know if you’re walking in circles or if you’re getting somewhere.

It can also help you write messages in case someone is looking for you. Obviously, this would only happen if you get seriously lost. Now, since you can predict something like this the best you can do is to prepare.

Opening Doors

Imagine that you find a cabin in the woods. The place can be a great place for you to use as shelter. As you know you only last 3 hours without shelter. So, this cabin is locked and the doors are thick enough to make near impossible for you to open it with sheer physical force.

Now, imagine that you’re locked inside a room. It may be in your house, or even a dangerous situation like a kidnap. You have to find a way out of the room, and there’s no way to break out.

In any one of those scenarios having a pocket knife can help you. That’s why opening doors is a reason to carry a pocket knife. With a pocket knife, you can unlock the door. Now, it’s not the simplest of the tasks but is doable. All you have to do is insert the knife as you do the key and work your way through it.

Opening A Passageway

Opening a passageway is another reason to carry a pocket knife. Now, this one may sound like the above reason, opening doors, but it’s not. If you’re hiking and want to make your way through rocks or even open a passage through a cavern, a pocket knife can help you carve your way through it.

Now, if you’re camping or hunting in the woods, you know how much the vegetation can get in the way and slow you down. Now only that but there are branches with thorns. So, having a pocket knife to cut your way through it is quite useful.

So, it’s pretty clear that if you’re camping or hiking, carrying a pocket knife is quite important. Now, you should also carry it in other situations. The point is that, if you can, carrying one is always useful. Just make sure is always sharp and that you can actually carry one depending on where you live.

Making Other Weapons

Now, if you’re hunting, camping, or in an SHTF situation, you’ll need other weapons. A pocket knife can help you make other weapons as well. For example, if you need a spear for fishing, you can make one with a folder. This knife can help you sharpen the wood.

You can also make a bow and arrow. The point is that you can produce other weapons that would help you with hunting and fishing. So, carry your pocket knife if you’re going to do any of these activities.  Click here for those wanting to learn of a great knife that is very discrete and compact that you can wear that I recommend.

As you can see, there are many reasons to carry a pocket knife with you. Since most of them you can’t really predict when you’re going to need, you should carry yours at all time. Just make sure to do the maintenance and that it’s okay to do so by your local laws.