In my preparedness journey, I’m at a point where I have enough “stuff” and want to ensure that I have enough skills. As a prospective member of my county search-and-rescue (SAR) team and a budding hunter, one skill that I always wanted to learn was tracking. Sure, as a Boy Scout as a kid I learned some absolute basics, such as print identification for species of animals where I grew up, but I never got much further into it than that. While “read a book” is a valid path to prime the pump with many new skills, some things are better to learn in a class setting. So, when I saw that Fieldcraft Survival had not only added a tracking class to its inventory, but had scheduled one near me in Burnet, Texas, I jumped at the chance to get started. I signed up for Craig Caudill's Tracking Fundamentals course in the Fieldcraft Survival headquarters store in Heber City, Utah, while on the way home from a family road trip.
Above: The Reveille Peak Ranch has a semi-outdoor classroom area where we initially met. It was nice to see a flag up to start the day.
Fieldcraft is a well-known brand with a wide variety of classes. This was my first time taking a class from them, however, so I was interested to see if it would live up to what I’d heard. I wasn’t disappointed.
The instructor for the class was none other than Craig Caudill, founder of The Nature Reliance School, who had been tapped by FCS to provide this content. Craig has written four books on wilderness survival topics and teaches tracking, among other things, through his school directly as well. So, I loaded up my day-in-the-sticks kit and drove out to Reveille Peak Ranch to start my journey towards becoming a tracker.
Getting Started
The class size was modest — about 10 people. Some people had taken several Fieldcraft Survival classes before; for others, this was their first. A few attendees were prior military service, others have always been civilians. To start out, Craig asked what we all hoped to get out of the class in order to tailor the approach, which I appreciated.
Above: The print has been identified and lines have been staked out to help determine key metrics about the track.
To be expected, a lot of people were there driven by their hunting passion. That was part of my purpose, but really tracking people to increase my skill set for SAR was my main driver. Luckily for me, much of the focus would be on man-tracking at first. This is because as people, it would be easier for us to make informed guesses about people tracks. It also doesn’t hurt that, as humans, we could create new human tracks rather than hoping to find animal tracks that may or may not be present.
Science, Not Art
Growing up, when I would think about tracking, I’d picture frontiersmen or Native Americans slinking through the forest in their buckskins, hot on the trail of game or maybe an enemy war party. Even modern media portrayals create similar depictions — Netflix’s Sheriff Longmire calling in his friend Henry Standing Bear, “the best tracker I know,” to help track down a poacher in the woods. One could be forgiven for thinking to be a great tracker you need natural talent or maybe some magic sixth sense.
Above: Step is the distance between left and right feet. Stride is the distance from one left print to another. Stride is affected by height and changes with speed.
In fact, after introducing himself, Craig opened with a brief story of Daniel Boone, tracking a Native American war party who had kidnapped a girl, following them more than 50 miles over a course of days. It took Boone over 10 years to get all the skills and knowledge that enabled him to pull this off.
Contrary to the common perception, tracking is a science, not an art. While there’s no doubt that some people have a natural talent, just like anything else, it is in fact a skill that can be learned by anyone willing to put in the work. And like any science or technical discipline, there’s jargon. Some of the key jargon for tracking include:
Tracks are indicators left on the ground, such as footprints.
Sign are all other indicators, which are not necessarily on the ground.
Spoor is a South African (Afrikaans) word for a collection of sign/tracks.
Cutting for sign is methodically looking for sign.
Quarry is the person or animal being pursued.
Direction of Travel is (self-evidently) the direction the quarry is headed.
Gait is the rate of movement of the quarry.
After receiving some printouts and dealing with a few more administrative items, we headed out to the field to get started.
Sun Track You
The first bit of wisdom that Craig gave us in the field was to keep, to the best of your ability, the sun between yourself and the track. The shadow will give the best contrast, and for this reason the morning and evening are the best times to read tracks. Midday is the worst. The point was illustrated with a flashlight to show how the tracks become more visible or wash out depending on the angle and intensity of the light.
Above: Craig Caudill using a flashlight to provide contrast to a footprint in the sand.
Measure Before You Analyze
Tracking is a science of deduction — you must observe physical artifacts in order to draw a conclusion. As Craig put it in class, you must make observations before interpretations. Your goal is to learn to identify certain measurable indicators, which provide the data necessary to figure out things like:
Number of subjects
Direction of travel
Speed of travel
Time the quarry came through relative to some other events
Data needed to support these conclusions include:
Shape of footprint(s)
Distinct shoe treads, toe spread, etc.
Pitch of observed footfalls relative to a center line
Trail width
For instance, in order to deduce speed, one must know the average step and stride lengths for the type of quarry, such as a human being. By measuring step and stride, as well as the trail width, you can start to determine whether someone is walking or running. As speed increases, step and stride will increase but trail width will also decrease, as well as foot pitch.
Above: Other sign include broken plants like this, or anything else that stands out as being obviously disturbed relative to the environment. Smell, color, and dryness are some of the factors that can help determine whether such sign is fresh or not.
To illustrate this, the class helped set up a “spoor pit” in the sand, and we ran several drills, involving class participation, to take measurements of tracks and then start to make interpretations. Nothing was a trick, though some things were tricky. However, the goal was to get about 70 percent right on any given scenario, with the mantra “70 percent right and move on it” drilled into us. That is to say, to the active tracker looking for, say, a fugitive, being 70 percent right and closing the time-distance gap between yourself and the subject is more important than doing a 100-percent accurate reconstruction of events that don’t necessarily matter.
Make it Human (or Not)
Depending on the terrain where you’re tracking, you may not have nice sand or mud and tracks won’t be clearly visible in the form of footprints. You’ll be looking at disturbances in leaf litter or grass, for instance, and it may not be immediately apparent what has made the trail you’re on.
Humans are the only animal fully bipedal. Being bipedal, we’re also one of the least well-balanced animals and our walk is more like a controlled fall. As such, the width of a human track is wider than that of any other animal. From dogs to hogs to members of the deer family, all animals have fairly narrow track width. Knowing that can be key to staying on a human track versus an animal.
Of course, spoor isn’t all tracks. You have to look off the ground and trees and bushes for air sign. The type of foliage needs to be taken into consideration depending on what you’re tracking. For instance, people don’t generally walk through thorny underbrush on purpose. If you see a track heading into such brush, it was likely made by an animal, not a human. If you’re starting from a last known location of someone who disappeared at night, however, he or she may not have seen the brush and just kept pushing through it.
Above: Trail width can help determine whether a track is human or not when you don’t have visible prints. It can also be helpful in determining whether a subject is running or walking when you do have prints.
Practice, Practice, Practice
Like athletics or shooting, if you want to get good at tracking you have to practice. In class, we were introduced to a training technique to “take home” with us called the Ten Step Drill. It’s possible to do it by yourself, but it’s preferable to work with a partner.
To start out, one partner looks away while the other takes 10 steps out from the starting point and drops a marker at each foot fall. The tracking partner then inspects the marked footfalls and notes what sign can be seen. The partners then switch roles and repeat.
As you get better, you then move on to dropping fewer markers, then add steps. You can work in modifications to this while walking your dog, rucking, or other activities, by paying attention to your own footfalls, your dog’s, or your partner’s.
The goal is to be able to identify tracks and sign, such as the way grasses bend or break, leaves crinkle, etc., when stepped on in environments where footprints will not be clearly visible. The more you do it, the quicker you’ll be able to identify trails in the field.
Above: In the Ten Step Drill, one partner walks out and marks his steps. The second partner takes note of what he can observe at those marked points in order to learn to identify tracks when clear footprints aren’t visible due to ground cover.
Tracking with Teams
A good portion of the day was spent running tracking drills as teams, with one group running the track and the other acting as the “rabbits.” This portion introduces unit-level tactics for man tracking specifically, but also provides the introduction for “lost spoor” tactics to reacquire a trail when the tracker loses it. While some of the tactics introduced can be done by a solo tracker, such as a hunter, many really require additional bodies to be successful.
A squad-size tracking unit may include:
The tracker himself
The team leader
The comms guy
Two flankers
Rear security (though this was also handled by the comms guy in our scenarios)
The drills were run repeatedly, with teams changing up sides, and team members switching roles within the team each rotation. In my team’s first rotation as the tracking unit, I took the role of tracker. While I did lose the trail about halfway, this did give a good opportunity to run the reacquisition drills with the team, so I think I got more out of losing the trail than if I’d managed to stay on.
Summing it Up
Coming out of the class, I can say that I definitely feel more aware of what to look for out in the wild, or even just on my rucks near the house with my dog. I learned a lot, and frankly, I want to learn more. Tracking is an excellent addition to the skill set, whether you want to increase your chances of putting food on the table or help your community in some way. I’d definitely suggest taking one of Craig’s classes, whether through Fieldcraft Survival or his own Nature Reliance School, as a way to get started or to just get better.
Interview with Craig Caudill
A couple days after the tracking class, I was able to connect with Craig on Zoom for an interview to get to know him a little better, and get his thoughts on topics related to the class, survival skills, and tracking in general. This interview is available exclusively on our website here.
Mil-spec is a term that’s often used by marketing copy writers to imply extreme toughness, but those who served in the military understand there’s another side to that term. While it’s true that Mil-spec products are thoroughly tested and held to precise standards, they’re also built to meet (not necessarily exceed) those standards while staying under a tightly controlled budget. More importantly, Mil-spec equipment is made to be used and maintained within a military supply chain. For civilian owners who don’t have access to specially trained service techs and warehouses full of spare parts, that can pose a significant challenge. However, there is a work around for those interested it acquiring a mil spec overland vehicle.
Above: The rear of the Pangea-LT features a mounting point for a full-size spare wheel (not currently installed) as well as a trailer hitch John uses to attach a carrier for his dirt bike.
What’s an LMTV?
The Family of Medium Tactical Vehicles (FMTV) is a series of U.S. Military vehicles loosely based on the 12M18 military truck originally built by Steyr-Daimler-Puch in Austria (a branch of the same Steyr that developed the AUG rifle). The FMTV includes more than a dozen variants designed to carry anything from troops and cargo to cranes, mobile command centers, and HIMARS rocket launchers. Most variants use a 5-ton, 6×6 chassis known as the MTV, but a few were developed on the 2.5-ton, 4×4 Light MTV chassis. With a base curb weight of roughly 23,000 pounds, the LMTV is only “light” in a comparative sense.
Above: In addition to the headlights recessed into the bumper, this truck has been upgraded with nine auxiliary LightForce LED lights — both visible and infrared.
This particular M1078 LMTV was built by BAE Systems, one of three contractors who manufactured the FMTV for the government. It features all the standard underpinnings: a Caterpillar C7 7.2-liter turbodiesel engine, Allison seven-speed transmission, integral single-speed transfer case, Meritor axles, and 47-inch off-road tires with a central inflation system. Technically, the LMTV is all-wheel drive, since its four wheels are powered with a 30/70 front-to-rear torque split at all times. A secondary off-road mode can be selected to split power 50/50 and enable the transmission’s low first gear for more technical terrain.
Above: Each aluminum beadlock wheel features a central tire inflation system that allows tire pressures to be adjusted on the fly. In the case of a minor puncture, the system can maintain pressure until the tire can be replaced.
Pangea-LT Conversion
Although many LMTVs make their way onto auction sites as military surplus, this build started life as a brand-new chassis with zero miles on the odometer. It was purchased from BAE Systems by Global Expedition Vehicles (GXV), who installed a custom 17-foot-long, lifting-roof RV cabin. The resulting 26-foot-long vehicle is called the GXV Pangea-LT and cost approximately $450,000. The drivetrain is mostly unmodified, aside from a tune that boosts engine output from 275 horsepower to 350 and new final drive gearing that increases top speed from 58 miles per hour to a more reasonable 75.
The owner of this Pangea-LT prefers to remain anonymous, so we’ll call him John. John purchased the truck in 2018, after cross-shopping EarthRoamers and realizing he wanted a chassis that was more rugged and off-road capable than a commercial Ford F-550. The LMTV certainly fit that requirement, and he also appreciated the maneuverability of its cab-over-engine configuration. The massive tires provide plenty of clearance and grip for expeditions off the beaten path, and there’s more than enough space for all his hunting, fishing, and backpacking gear.
Above: Hydraulic lifters take only 20 seconds to raise the roof on the 17-foot GXV cabin.
Accessing the cabin is as simple as parking the truck and pressing a button to lift the hydraulic roof — the whole process takes only 20 seconds. The primary entry point is its passenger-side door, which features electric steps, but there’s also a small pass-through hatch that allows direct access from the cab. Inside, you’ll find a full-size bed, a two-person dining area that converts into a second bed, and a wet bath with shower and toilet. Appliances include almost everything you’d expect at home: a stainless two-drawer fridge/freezer, induction cooktop, microwave, and an LED TV. It has an air conditioner for warm days and a heater for cold nights; screened double-pane glass windows and a skylight let in fresh air.
Above: Electric steps drop down to allow entry into the two-piece cabin door.
In the pass-through storage compartment at the rear, you’ll find the systems that keep the truck off-grid capable. A Mastervolt marine-grade electrical system keeps the 1,600-amp-hour batteries charged from an array of 300-watt solar panels on the roof. In rare cases where solar isn’t sufficient, a small diesel generator can be used to recharge the batteries, but John says he has only had to use it a handful of times.
Over the years, John has added a few upgrades to the LMTV. The front shocks were replaced with King remote-reservoir units for a smoother ride on washboard roads, and the original steel wheels and Michelin tires (which weigh 400 pounds each) were swapped for lighter MRAP aluminum wheels clad in Goodyear tires. The front bumper is outfitted with a heavy-duty winch and auxiliary lights from LightForce — both visible white and infrared for driving under night vision.
Above: A view of the onboard battery and electronic components.
Bigger Truck, Bigger Problems
Remember how we mentioned the challenges of owning a Mil-spec vehicle outside the military supply chain? John will be the first to tell you those challenges are very real. Due to its sheer size and weight, his LMTV averages around 6 to 7 miles per gallon. Even a simple oil change takes 7 gallons of oil, and leaks should be expected. Swapping a tire requires a heavy-duty jack and power tools to overcome the 475 lb-ft lug nut torque. John says tire changes are frequent, since the only tires available are aging military surplus. In five years of ownership, he has gone through three Michelins and two Goodyears. Unlike the single-battery 12-volt system in regular cars, the LMTV uses a 24-volt electrical system with four batteries, and John says parasitic drain is a fact of life for this vehicle. If you expect the engine to start after more than a few days, you’ll need to cut off power when you park.
Above: The inside of the mil spec LMTV cab.
All of those issues fall under what most people would call basic maintenance. For any serious repairs, you’d better have a lot of patience and deep pockets. Since the Caterpillar and Allison drivetrain isn’t uncommon, most diesel truck shops can be convinced to work on the LMTV, but John says they charge a premium for this unusual platform — “expect them to turn up prices on everything by 50 percent.” Some parts, such as those for the cab and axles, may only be available through surplus auctions. And even though some people would expect a Mil-spec truck to be reliable, this one hasn’t been. John says the brakes started dragging while the truck was in motion, leading to a hefty repair bill. Driving on a heavily rutted trail caused the rear shock mounts to snap, so he had a fabricator build better mounts. Most recently, the turbo blew on a cross-country road trip.
If you manage to get stuck in an LMTV, recovery is another challenge. Most ordinary trucks won’t be able to budge it with a tow strap, it’ll shatter plastic traction boards, and it’ll snap a Hi-Lift jack like a twig. John relies on the front winch, solid steel traction boards, and a set of Kevlar-reinforced air lifting bags when he takes the truck off-road.
Closing Thoughts
Despite all the challenges, John has enjoyed many adventures behind the wheel of his Pangea-LT. He frequently takes it on camping trips in Yellowstone National Park, goes fishing deep in the North Fork area of Montana, and heads out for shorter weekend trips closer to home. If he could do it all over again, he says he’d look harder at a Dodge or Ford chassis with a warranty. Even though those trucks don’t have as much off-road capability as an LMTV, they’d be substantially easier to repair and maintain.
Builder: 2012 Global Expedition Vehicles
Chassis: 2.5-ton 4×4 BAE LMTV Cargo (M1078)
Engine: CAT C7 7.2L six-cylinder turbo-diesel tuned to 350 hp
Transmission: Allison 3700 seven-speed automatic with single-speed transfer case, 3.07 final drive
Suspension: King remote-reservoir front shocks, custom-fabricated rear shock mounts
Wheels & Tires: 20-inch aluminum MRAP wheels, 47-inch Goodyear MV/T tires with Central Tire Inflation System (CTIS)
Camper: 17-foot GXV Lifting-Roof Cabin with pass-through rear storage compartment
Electronics: Mastervolt marine-grade electrical system with 1,600Ah battery capacity and six 300-watt solar panels, diesel backup generator
Here's something that looks like it came straight out of spy movie—a cell phone gun designed by Mirko Vugrek. This isn't your average James Bond gadget; it's a real piece of hardware that's been seized by law enforcement. The video we're discussing is a looks into this fascinating and intriguing invention. So, why should you care? Because understanding the evolution of clandestine firearms can help us stay prepared and vigilant.
Main Points
The video, hosted by Ian McCollum, takes us to the Croatian Police Museum where this unique firearm is displayed. At first glance, it looks like an old-school cell phone, but don't let that fool you. Hidden within are four .22 rimfire barrels, each with its own firing pin. The phone's buttons serve as triggers, allowing for four shots. This device started appearing around 2007-2008 and led investigators straight back to the Vugrek family in Croatia.
Historical Background
Mirko Vugrek isn't new to the world of firearms. He initially developed the Agram 2000, a submachine gun. The Vugrek family had real talent as designers; Mirko's son Ivan even became a wind turbine designer after serving time. However, the family's path took a darker turn, leading them to create these concealed weapons. It's a story of what could have been, had circumstances been different.
Final Thoughts
The Vugrek cell phone gun is a stark reminder of the ingenuity that can be applied for nefarious purposes. It's a well-engineered piece of equipment that serves as a cautionary tale. The Vugrek family had the talent to contribute positively to the world of firearms design but chose a different path. Understanding such inventions is crucial for our collective safety and preparedness. Intrigued? You should be. Go ahead and watch the full video at Forgotten Weapons to get all the details. And while you're at it, don't forget to subscribe to our free newsletter for more eye-opening insights into the world of emergency survival and preparedness.
The significance of a dependable saw in a survival situation cannot be overstated. This article delves into an instructional video by outdoor skills instructor Joe Price, who provides a step-by-step guide on crafting the ideal wilderness saw. This skill is not merely a DIY endeavor but a crucial addition to any survival toolkit. Check out the video here:
Key Points
The video commences with Joe Price highlighting the essential tools for the project: cordage, a quality belt knife, and a 12-inch bow saw blade. He offers an in-depth discussion on the types of blades—dry wood and green wood blades—each suited for specific tasks.
The core of the video focuses on the construction process. Alder wood serves as the material of choice for the saw, which consists of two upright arms and a cross arm. One of the unique aspects of this design is the square notch, a feature that ensures the saw's stability and sets it apart from other designs.
Why Make a Saw?
The mechanics of a saw are rooted in the design of its teeth, commonly referred to as pegs. These pegs are engineered to slice through wood fibers efficiently. In the case of dry wood blades, the pegs are uniform, while green wood blades feature alternating pegs and “raker teeth.” The latter aids in removing the wood that has been cut, making the process more streamlined. This engineering underscores the the importance of knowing what your tools are capable of. Saws are incredibly useful for a multitude of outdoor endeavors, and knowing how to whip one up with minimal materials is an great skill to learn. It also beats lugging around a chainsaw.
Conclusion
The instructional video by Joe Price serves as an invaluable resource for those keen on enhancing their survival skills. From selecting the appropriate blade to mastering the art of crafting square notches, this bushcraft saw construction tutorial is an essential skill to acquire. The video even offers additional tips, such as creating a “smudge pot” to deter mosquitoes during the building process. For those interested in elevating their survival skills, watching the video is highly recommended. Subscribing to the channel will also provide access to a wealth of information on survival techniques and tips. You can find it here @inforestsandlands
Survival in the wilderness is a topic that has fascinated many, but few have the courage to put themselves in a real-life survival situation to test their skills. The Decivilized video titled “Mountain Survival,” available on CarbonTV, does just that. The video serves as a comprehensive guide to surviving a night in the mountains with minimal gear. The video is relatively short and packed with juicy nuggets of survival know-how:
Key Points
The video emphasizes the importance of prioritizing tasks in a survival situation. The first priority is to find a sheltered location away from the mountain's exposed ridge. The host carries only essential items: a water bottle, a knife, a rain jacket, a lighter, and some toilet paper. The focus is on building a shelter to protect against hypothermia and gathering enough firewood to last through the night. The video also provides practical tips on choosing the right location and materials for your shelter, as well as how to keep a fire going in challenging conditions.
Analysis
What sets this video apart is its realistic approach. Unlike many survival guides that list an array of tools and gadgets, this video shows you how to survive with what you might realistically have on hand. It also highlights the psychological aspect of survival—keeping calm and making rational decisions can be as crucial as any piece of gear. The video's emphasis on using natural materials like pine needles for insulation and firewood for heat aligns well with the ethos of self-reliance and resourcefulness.
Conclusion
The video is particularly relevant in today's world, where outdoor activities are gaining popularity as a form of social distancing. Moreover, the rise in extreme weather events makes survival skills more essential than ever. The video serves as a timely reminder that being prepared isn't just about having the right gear but also about knowing how to use your environment to your advantage. Whether you're an avid hiker or someone who's just getting into the world of outdoor adventures, “Mountain Survival” is a must-watch. It strips down the romanticized Hollywood version of survival to its bare essentials, providing viewers with practical, actionable tips. So, if you're looking to up your survival game or just want to be more prepared for the unexpected, head over to CarbonTV and give it a watch.
The New York Times recently published an article titled “Danelo Cavalcante, Pennsylvania Fugitive, Is Now Armed as Manhunt Continues”. The piece delves into the intensifying search for Danelo Cavalcante, a fugitive on the run who recently armed himself with a stolen rifle. The article paints a vivid picture of the heightened tension and urgency surrounding this manhunt.
UPDATE: Early in the morning on September 13th, 2023, Cavalcante was captured by authorities without serious incident.
Background Info
The fugitive, Danelo Cavalcante, escaped from jail on August 31 and has been on the run in southeastern Pennsylvania. He accomplished this by shimmying up between two walls and exploiting vulnerabilities in the prisons' perimeter fencing. Since making the escape, and as of the date of this article, he has managed — either by luck, skill, or a combination of both — to evade the manhunt which is growing larger by the day. The situation escalated when he stole a .22-caliber rifle from a homeowner's garage. The homeowner fired at Cavalcante but missed, allowing him to flee with the weapon. Cavalcante is not just any fugitive; he has a murder conviction in Pennsylvania and is wanted in connection with a killing in Brazil. Authorities have advised local residents to stay indoors, lock their doors, and secure their vehicles. Schools in the area have also been advised to close.
Survival Analysis
From a survival and preparedness standpoint of the everyday citizen, this situation is a stark reminder of the importance of home security and situational awareness. The community in which Cavalcante escaped is known for its traditional values where neighbors know each other and look out for one another. Many residents there don't even consider locking doors on a regular basis. As a result, the fugitive was able to exploit this community by breaking into unsecured outbuildings, acquiring a firearm that was not locked away, and pillaging other supplies needed to extend his probability of surviving in the surrounding wilderness. For law enforcement who are hunting Cavalcante, this could be an important reminder of how important it is to learn soft skills like tracking, counter tracking, or the predictable patterns people tend to make in survival situations. If you'd like to learn more about these topics, check out some of our previous articles:
The homeowner who Cavalcante stole the firearm from had another pistol and attempted to fire at the intruder, but was unsuccessful at hitting his target. This brings awareness about the need for proper firearm training, especially during high-stress situations. Additionally, the community's collective anxiety highlights the necessity of emergency preparedness plans, not just for natural disasters but also for human-made crises. Especially for those living within close proximity of an active corrections facility.
Conclusion
This incident is part of a larger trend of increasing concerns about public safety and the challenges law enforcement faces in capturing dangerous individuals. It also underscores the role of community vigilance. The ongoing manhunt for Danelo Cavalcante serves as a cautionary tale for both urban and rural communities. It emphasizes the need for preparedness, vigilance, and community cooperation in times of crisis, and should be a wake up call for the need for continuous training for the agencies that respond to events such as these. For a more in-depth understanding of the situation and its implications, read the original article on The New York Times.
The field of passive range finding has been evolving, and one of the latest additions to this category is the RANGE-R Card FLEX by Black Hills Designs. This hand held tool requires no batteries, is as light as feather, and is relatively accurate. There are two designs, a small version the size of a playing card, and a slightly larger model about the size of an index card. Cut into the corner of the larger model is a place to stick a small chem light to be able to read the engravings after dark.
Key Features of the RANGE-R Card FLEX
Zero Emissions: One of the most notable aspects of the RANGE-R Card FLEX is its lack of thermal, IR (infrared), EM (electromagnetic), or SWIR (short wave infrared) emissions. This feature allows for discreet operations without the risk of electronic detection, which is crucial in certain tactical scenarios.
Compact Design: With the smallest dimensions measuring 5.375″ x 3″ and a weight of approximately 1 oz, the card is designed for easy portability. It can fit into various compartments, such as a cargo pocket, a binocular pack, or a general-purpose pouch.
Versatile Applications: The card can function as a standalone tool for range finding or can be integrated with other traditional methods like Laser Range Finding, GPS, and Milling to improve accuracy. It's also a reasonably accurate contingency incase a primary, battery powered range finder fails or breaks, extending the time one can remain in the field.
Educational Utility: For those learning the art of range finding, this card serves as an effective educational tool, aiding in the development of intuitive ranging skills.
Multiple Reticles: The card incorporates six different reticles, including those for ranging a man, a door, a semi-truck, an shipping container, a ranch fence, and an average SUV. This variety allows for a more flexible approach to range finding.
Enhanced Features: The third generation of the RANGE-R Card comes with improvements in optical clarity, overall accuracy, and additional retention points. It is also 50% thinner and flexible, making it easier to handle.
Conclusion: A Comprehensive Tool for Range Finding
While there are several range finding cards available, the RANGE-R Card FLEX offers unique features that set it apart. Its emission-free operation and compact, lightweight design make it a practical choice for users who require discretion and portability. Although using it at night with a small chemlight is an interesting feature, it may not be the best method to use if light discipline is a concern. Also, the groove that holds the chemlight may not be a perfect fit. In the image above, a small strip of duct tape was used to give the chemlight a fit that was more snug. That being said, the RANGE-R Card FLEX offers a new perspective in the field of passive range finding. Its unique features and benefits make it a versatile and reliable tool for both professionals and learners.
Opportunities, both good and bad, are everywhere for those who are paying attention. Pursuing a detrimental opportunity can lead to unfortunate events and an early demise. Taking advantage of the good ones can lead to a life pursuing passion and finding fulfillment. In the case of Michael Neiger, having the foresight to answer noble callings placed him in a unique position to help those who chose the latter. Over the span of his career in law enforcement and search and rescue, he has developed a unique skill set, and a powerful understanding of human nature.
Michael, now retired from the Michigan State Police, and founder of Michigan Backcountry Search And Rescue, spends his time searching for long-term lost and missing loved ones. This painstakingly difficult task often takes place in some of the most remote corners of the world, under the most extreme conditions the human body can endure. However, his passion helps bring closure to those suffering the agony of not knowing what happened to their lost family or friends.
Many cases that he has worked on have been featured in several books such as Where Monsters Hide: Sex, Murder, and Madness in the Midwest, by New York Times bestselling author M. William Phelps, and The Cold Vanish: Seeking the Missing in North America's Wildlands, by John Billman, just to name a few. His exploits have been highlighted in Outside Magazine, Explore Magazine, and Readers Digest. A regular speaker at outdoor symposiums throughout the midwest, his expertise and unique casework has found its way on the air on several media outlets like ABC’s 20/20, HBO’s Crime Watch Daily with Chris Hansen and many more.
After attending a class on how Long Term Missing searches were conducted in the backcountry, we dug in a little further to learn more about his methods, the training he endures to perform optimally in the field, and what aspiring backcountry searchers can do to follow in his footsteps.
Interview With Michael Neiger
RECOIL OFFGRID: The wilderness has always been a part of your life because of your family’s passion for the outdoors. What key moments in your childhood helped kindle your own inner passion for outdoor adventure?
MICHAEL NEIGER: My parents took my older brother and I to the outdoors often. We were in the Boy Scouts, and my Dad was a Troop leader. He taught us how to hunt, fish, pick mushrooms, collect maple sap, build a fire, melt snow in the winter, camp, ski, snowshoe, and canoe. Each summer, he took us to his fishing camp, a two-story log cabin on a remote lake in the Canadian bush.
What attracted you to starting a career with the Michigan State Police, and how did your interests in Law Enforcement evolve over time?
MN: My Dad was an administrator at Northern Michigan University in Marquette, Michigan. He was charged with setting up educational programs, two of which were an associate, and bachelor degree in law enforcement. When he was interviewing and recruiting teachers for the program, they would come over to our house for dinner. During that time I was working as a mechanic on BMW motorcycles. Helping others and investigating crimes was more appealing to me, so I switched from a degree in industrial technology to one in law enforcement.
It takes a lot of stamina to go on arctic expeditions or search the wilderness for long-term missing, and you obviously work very hard to stay in peak physical condition. What does your favorite workout routine look like?
MN: While I have done a lot of trail running–including multiple 26-mile marathons, a 50-mile ultra marathon, and a 62-mile ultra marathon–I currently exercise daily, for 8 or 9 days in a row, before taking a rest day. My workouts usually last 45 to 60 minutes a day, and focus on cross-training and high-intensity interval training (HIIT): weight-lifting with free weights and machines, core strengthening, swimming, spinning, rowing, climbing a 40-degree Jacobs Ladder, ascending an inclined treadmill or stair climber, working on an elliptical trainer, and trail running. To complement this regimen, I try to eat and drink healthy, lots of protein, not so much sugar.
At what point did you make the decision to start working on Long Term Missing cases?
MN: A few years after retiring from my 26-year career with the Michigan State Police, I read about a man and his dog who went missing in a very remote, inhospitable section of Tahquamenon Falls State Park in the eastern Upper Peninsula of Michigan. When the search was called off and suspended after two weeks of searching by first-line SAR teams and K-9 teams with no results, I offered my search and investigative services to the County Sheriff. This initial case led me to found Michigan Backcountry Search and Rescue (MibSAR) and its Long Range Special Operations Group (LRSOG) 15 years ago. Since then, I have worked on dozens of long-term missing (LTM) person cases, unsolved murders, and other cases, in the remote bush between the Upper Great Lakes in Michigan and Wisconsin, and the Arctic Ocean in Ontario, Canada
While serving with the Michigan State Police, what skills did you learn that you apply while conducting LTM searches?
MN: There are many skills that transfer nicely to LTM searches. Some of those include: crime scene searching; evidence documentation, collection, processing, and analysis; interview and interrogation techniques; observation; investigative techniques; report writing; crime scene drawings; courtroom exhibits; photography; testifying in a court of law, etc.
You have several guidebooks to remote locations. What inspired you to take on this endeavor, and did you start writing guide books before or after working on LTM cases?
MN: I started writing guidebooks to national and state parks immediately after retiring from my 26-year career with the Michigan State Police (MSP). I had done a lot of writing with the MSP, and really enjoyed the research and writing process. Having organized and guided 100s of wilderness trips and expeditions over decades, I decided to write about some of the more off-the-beaten-path natural gems I had come across.
For example, in doing the fieldwork for Exploring Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, I found and cataloged hundreds of little-known and seldom-visited caves in the backcountry of the Lakeshore. The biggest grotto is known as The Amphitheater. It has its own 49-foot waterfall, and is massive enough to hold around 2,000 people. Another book I am currently writing is: Exploring Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park, and involves documenting a large number of old copper mines, pits, and associated mining works.
In addition to my finished guidebooks, I have completed the fieldwork for Exploring the Agawa Canyon in Canada, and am currently doing the fieldwork for a guidebook on the Seney National Wildlife Refuge.
How many LTM cases have you worked on, and how many have you been able to close?
MN: I have worked, investigated, searched, or consulted on dozens of cases, including around 100 in the United States, 13 in Canada, and one each in Mexico, Peru, and Columbia. The cases I work on are generally the hardest of the hardest, as the best of the best have already worked on them, so they are very difficult, if not impossible in many cases, to close. That said, I have found human remains on several LTM expeditions, and contributed to the closure of many other cases.
While I have worked on a few national and international cases, most of my work involves investigating long-term-missing (LTM) person cases and unsolved murders in the remote bush between the Upper Great Lakes in Michigan and Wisconsin, and the Arctic Ocean in Ontario, Canada.
If we define the success of an LTM case as either finding, or knowing definitively what happened to the missing subject, what are some of the greatest challenges faced that affect the outcome of a successful LTM case?
MN: At one time, about half my LTM cases were murders, which are infinitely more difficult to close, often because they may involve dismemberment, the destruction of human remains using chemicals or heat, or the concealment of remains at one or more clandestine burial sites.
LTM cases are also very challenging due to the passage of time, perhaps months, years, or decades. In many areas, seasonal conifer needle drop and deciduous leaf shed can eventually cover spoor – human remains, clothing, and other evidence – to a point where it is not visible to the naked eye. Ground-level growth, such as ferns, grass, moss, and lichen, can also obscure human remains and other evidence.
With the passage of time, scavenging insects, rodents, birds, and animals – especially the fox, coyote, wolf, and even bear – reduce human remains through consumption, disarticulation, and scattering.
What are some of the greatest challenges that Search And Rescue (SAR) operations will face that affect a successful outcome?
MN: The inability to gain access to tracts of private property is a big problem in some cases. Owners with criminal records, or those involved in nefarious activities, such as possessing stolen property, illegal drug operations, or conservation law violations, are often less than helpful.
On cases that are several years old, especially decades old, it is not uncommon for the entire case file, including search records, to have been lost, even intentionally destroyed.
As an independent investigator, who often works directly for loved ones of the missing – free of charge – it is often very difficult, if not impossible, to gain access to official reports and search records on the case, even when the search has been suspended for years or decades. It is not uncommon to have to comb through newspaper microfilm, search social media posts, and reinterview those involved in the case.
For someone who may be interested in getting involved in SAR or LTM work, where should they start and what kind of training should they seek?
MN: I recommend those interested in volunteering with a SAR team contact their local sheriff, as in many jurisdictions, he or she is charged with responding to search-and-rescue calls, and often maintains a volunteer SAR team.
Independent K-9 teams are very common in many areas too, and they need handlers as well as support volunteers. An internet search should identify K-9 teams in your local area. You could also contact a regional or national search dog organization, such as the National Search Dog Alliance (NSDA), to identify member teams in your area. www.n-sda.org
As for SAR training, the National Association for Search and Rescue (NASAR) has trainers all over the country who offer a wide variety of SAR classes, from beginner to expert level. www.NASAR.org
Training in wilderness first-aid, CPR, traditional map-and-compass land navigation, GPS use, wilderness survival, knot-tying, rope handling, man-tracking and sign-cutting, lost-person profiles, lost-person behavior, search strategies, evidence recognition and preservation, personal load-out, and FEMA's incident command system (ICS) are also important skill-sets SAR professionals need to master.
Which outlets (social media, publications, posters, etc.) do you think generate the greatest amount of awareness in a missing persons case, and how often does it generate useful intel?
MN: Social media is a very powerful means of getting the message out on missing persons' cases, both current and old. I design social-media-friendly missing persons posters for all my cases, upload them to the internet on my website, and then share them on Facebook. They get great reach this way, and accompanied by a good textual narrative, pop-up easily when keywords are searched, even years later. I also distribute hard copies of posters in areas relevant to an investigation, and they spread awareness, stimulate discussion, sometimes even tips.
After going on so many solo trips, many of them to the inhospitable arctic, were there any moments where you thought you wouldn’t make it back?
MN: One of the biggest threats I face in the Arctic Ocean bush is falling through a patch of weak ice that is concealed beneath drifted snow, since most of my expedition routes are along frozen rivers, pulling a heavily-loaded expedition sledge with snowshoes, just as the Cree First Nations people did back in the day.
I have been very fortunate to never have fallen completely through rotten ice. For some margin of error, I carry self ice-rescue picks readily available at all times, and also use a custom, 6-foot-long ice probe to monitor for changing ice conditions. One end has a steel chisel tip so I can chip at the ice to see how thick and solid it is. The other end has a hardwood tip so I can pound on the ice, and sound-it-out, to see if it is supported by water (solid sound is safest) or air, from dropping water levels (hollow sound is very dangerous).
What knowledge or skill sets do you attribute to your survivability during solo trips?
MN: When I started solo expeditioning 40-some years ago, GPS units were not available, and I had to be very careful with my map-and-compass work so I knew where I was at all times, and did not get lost in the expansive, road-less terrain.
Likewise, satellite rescue beacons were not available, except to pilots, and 2-way satellite messaging was a long way off, so I had to be very careful to avoid injury or illness, since I had no comms. Eventually I purchased an emergency locator transmitter (ELT) carried by pilots. They were illegal for me to use, but, if it saved my life, I was willing to pay the 4-figure fine.
Another thing that has helped me survive my expeditions is being in peak physical condition all the time, and spending countless nights in the bush beforehand. This allowed me to hone my wilderness skill-set to a high level of proficiency.
Lots of time in the bush has taught me how to gauge my hydration and fuel levels for maximum performance, while at the same time avoiding exhaustion. I also learned to thermoregulate by layering like an onion, doffing and donning layers as needed to avoid getting soaked from sweat, or dangerously cold and hypothermic.
What is your typical load-out for a solo arctic trek?
MN:
Clothing worn while man-hauling sledge: thin wicking beanie and wide-brimmed boonie hat with ear flaps; thin wicking long-sleeve top with hoodie and wrist gaiters; thin wicking long johns with rip-off legs; thin liner socks inside vapor barrier socks inside thick wool socks; wind-proof over-parka with tunnel hood and wolf-fur ruff; wind-proof overpants; fingerless gloves; mitten shells with removable fleece liners, attached to web neck harness; sun glasses; bandana; watch; large wrist compass; breathable mukluks with moose-hide soles, frost plug insoles, thick wool felt insoles, and two nesting 9mm wool felt liners; butane lighter suspended from neck on shockcord to keep it warm and ready for use; bowie knife in drop-sheath with two pouches containing ice-rescue picks, toilet paper, and small channel lock pliers and multi tool on loss-prevention lanyard.
Heavily-insulated clothing: two 1/4-inch-thick insulated jackets, one with hood; one pair of 1/4-inch-thick insulated overpants with full side-zips; one two-inch-thick insulated overparka with hood; one two-inch-thick pair of insulated overpants with full side-zips.
Extra clothing: two pair of fleece mitten liners; wool felt mukluk insoles and liners; 3 pair of thick socks; 3 thin wicking tops; two thin wicking bottoms with full side zips; thin and thick balaclavas; insulated bomber hat; oversized rain parka and rain pants, rain mitts, rain cover for boonie hat.
Transport: 12- by 60-inch Cree or Alaskan snowshoes; two big-basket ski poles; custom 6-foot-long expedition cargo sledge with cargo-retention straps and brush-guards so it does not snag on brush, pulled with chest-and-waist harness via 6-foot-long aluminum X-traces. Sled deicing kit (scraper and scrub pad). A chest-and-waist pulling harness has multiple pouches racked on both shoulder straps and the waist belt for ready access to snacks, water bottle (insulated pouch), compass, GPS, map, basic first-aid kit, extra hats and mitten liners, extra wicking T-shirt and long-sleeve top, pair of zip-off wicking bottoms, pair of heater insoles, thin micro-insulated jacket and pants with side-zips for exposure to high winds or colder temperatures.
Communication gear: SARSAT-enabled Personal Locator Beacon (PLB); sat phone and rescue-and-evacuation insurance on some expeditions.
Hydration system: two heavy-duty one-liter Nalgene water bottles; two heavily-insulated water bottle parkas; one 20-ounce insulated thermos for hot lunch.
Ice-rescue gear: two ice-rescue picks are carried in a pouch on drop-sheath bowie knife; one climbing-grade carabiner; 6-feet of tubular webbing for anchor sling; 50-feet of floating rescue-grade rope in throw-bag mounted on front of sledge for rescue, and rigging belay or hall system in steep terrain; and a custom, 6-foot-long ice probe to monitor for changing ice conditions.
In-pockets/on-person survival gear (not in sledge or on removable hauling harness): lock-blade pocket knife; magnesium tinder rod; ferro sparking rod and scraper/striker for magnesium and ferro rod; adjustable-flame butane lighter; water-proof fire-starters; wind-proof and waterproof lifeboat matches; pealess whistle; signal mirror; large rip-proof emergency blanket (shelter and signal panel); high-quality button-size compass; high-quality single-AAA aluminum flashlight; and map of area of operation.
Ration cooking system: custom continuous-burn Trangia alcohol stove; multiple aluminum Sigg fuel cells for alcohol; stove float and windscreen; adjustable-flame butane lighter; one two-liter titanium cook pot with lid and campfire bail; pot holder; dipper cup; spoon; insulated mug with lid; and insulated food container with lid.
Rations: 4,000 and 7,000 calories of rations per day, or about 2.5 to 3 pounds of food. Breakfast: granola; pound cake bar; vitamins; coffee or tea. Snacks: two liters of electrolyte drink mix; chocolate bars; granola bars; mixed nuts. Lunch: ramen soup; beef jerky; cheese; pilot biscuits; jam; cookies. Dinner: freeze-dried meal; pilot biscuits; jam; cheese; cookies.
Spare equipment: extra batteries for flashlight and GPS; backup set of topographic maps; toilet paper; 9-hour candles.
Repair parts and equipment: 50-feet of 1/8-inch-diameter lashing cordage; small roll of duct tape; small coil of wire; snowshoe binding hardware; sledge trace attachment bolt; sewing kit; small channel lock pliers and Leatherman multi-tool.
First-aid equipment: Ace bandage; butterfly bandages; mole foam; moleskin; bandaids; gauze pads; roll bandage; first-aid tape, Israeli bandage; pain medicine; antibiotic; anti-inflammatory medicine; tweezers and scissors in pocket knife; cold, flu, and allergy medicine; diarrhea medicine.
Bivouac equipment: snow shovel; 10-by-10 foot sil-nylon tarp, pre-rigged with cordage; short and long closed-cell insulating ground pads; snow-proof bivy sack; minus 60-degree Fahrenheit sleeping bag; vapor barrier liner for sleeping bag; 9-hour candle; single AAA lithium battery aluminum LED flashlight mounted on head strap; wood saw; and fire starters.
Hygiene: small toilet paper roll in plastic bag; hand sanitizer; toothbrush; tooth powder (does not freeze); tooth picks; dental floss; and small pack towel.
How has your load-out changed over time, and what caused you to make those changes?
MN: The main changes I've been forced to make to my load-out were for weight reduction, simplification of processes, and improvements in reliability.
The weight of an Arctic Ocean kit is critical, since I have to man-haul it on a 6-foot-long expedition cargo sledge, often in up to 4 to 6 feet of powder snow, wearing huge, 12- by 60-inch, high-float Cree or Alaskan snowshoes. Add in negotiating semi-mountainous terrain tangled with brush and blowdowns, and every ounce counts. So, I am constantly looking at my kit, lightening it as best I can. Sometimes modifying an item helps reduce weight, or just replacing it with a new one if it can’t be changed.
Operating at ambient temperatures of minus 30- to 50-degrees Fahrenheit – much lower with windchills – means you only have a short period of time, sometimes measured in seconds, to use your fingers, before you need to tuck them back into your plunge mitts to rewarm them. This means every process must be as simplified as possible to reduce the number of steps or complexity, such as lacing one's snowshoes, rigging a shelter, lighting a stove, or preparing food. If your fingers get too cold, you will not be able to do any of these critical tasks, and being unable to light a fire or zip up a parka could result in a slow death.
Trying to fix a piece of equipment in windchills approaching triple digits is also extremely difficult, so every piece of an Arctic Ocean kit needs to be bombproof. In deep, subzero cold, everything must be very reliable, and easily field maintainable if it goes down.
How do you sustain yourself during your trips without resupply, and how long can you keep yourself going with your methods?
MN: My Arctic Ocean expeditions are usually limited to two weeks or less due to the weight of rations and fuel. On arduous expeditions in deep cold, I usually carry between 4,000 and 7,000 calories of rations per day, or about 2.5 to 3 pounds of food per day. To melt snow into water, and then boil it, requires about 10 ounces of fuel per day. So, two-weeks would mean man-hauling about 35 to 42 pounds of rations, and about 9 pounds of fuel, and that does not include 48 hours of backup rations and fuel.
If someone with no skills in wilderness trekking wanted to start, what skills should they master beforehand?
MN: Map-and-compass land navigation skills are essential, as is proficiency with a global positioning system (GPS).
Carrying an in-pockets survival kit (not in a rucksack or sledge, but on their person, in case they get lost), and proficiency with using each item, is very important, especially if you are traveling alone, and off-trail. For me, this includes: a bowie sheath knife, lock-blade pocket knife, magnesium tinder rod, ferro sparking rod, scraper/striker for magnesium and ferro rod, butane lighter, water-proof fire-starters, wind-proof and waterproof lifeboat matches, pealess whistle, signal mirror, large rip-proof emergency blanket (shelter and signal panel), high-quality button-size compass, high-quality single-AAA aluminum flashlight, and map of area of operation.
Since they need to be very familiar with how their body reacts to arduous wilderness tripping, as well as how to use and maintain their kit, adventurers should spend as much time in the bush – in foul weather, not fair weather – as they can, prior to any remote trek. A cold-weather survival class would also be very helpful, as would knowledge of wilderness first aid.
Clothing-wise, adventurers should avoid cotton clothing at all costs, even blends. Since it kills when wet – rapidly sucking the heat out of anything it comes in contact with – I call it the ‘Devil's Cloth'.
The key to operating in austere environments in very foul weather is having a rain parka and rain pants that are oversized, big enough to fit over all your layers, including your insulating layers. In addition, adventurers should have multiple thin layers of head-to-toe polypro wicking layers, all large enough to wear together in the worst conditions. Additional, roomy, insulating layers would then be worn over the wicking layers, and under the rain parka and pants.
Another key to successful wilderness tripping is being able to doff and don layers at will, fine tuning your layering system to the weather and workload you are facing at the moment, and when it changes. Layer like an onion.
Having a partner and some iron-clad means of communication with the outside world – such as a SARSAT-capable personal locator beacon (PLB) and a satellite phone – would also be recommended, as would rescue and evacuation insurance.
When you present or teach, what are the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about what you do, and how you prepare?
MN: People often want to know how I stay alive on a remote expedition in deep-subzero cold – without a fire. The key is preparation and execution. I train hard so I am in peak physical condition for expedition; stay well hydrated and fueled-up; and dress like an onion, doffing and donning wicking, insulating, and shell layers to avoid becoming too hot (and sweating up my clothing) or becoming dangerously cold.
When you are teaching an outdoor skills class, what are some of the most common mistakes you see people making when they are trying to learn a new wilderness skill?
MN: Starting a fire is a huge challenge for those who are not skilled at it. Especially firewood selection and processing in a field setting without a saw or axe, particularly in foul weather. I teach them to carry a stout bowie knife, and then show them how to split lengths of wet wood to get at the dry heartwood using a bowie knife and a baton.
What is your advice to the friends and family of someone who has been missing for a long time?
MN: Read the Missing-Person Sourcebook. After having worked with so many loved ones of the missing or murdered, I authored the Missing-Person Sourcebook: A How-To Manual for Families Searching for a Missing or Murdered Loved One – Best Practices from the World's Top Experts. This huge, 22-chapter compendium of expert info is written specifically for families with unresolved cases, and it is free, online, at www.TinyURL.com/MPsourcebook.
They should search for volunteer K-9 search teams in their region, as they are often looking for cases to work on.
They should also make sure their missing loved one is listed in the US National Missing and Unidentified Persons System (NamUs) database at www.NamUs.gov. They can start this listing themselves, and then solicit the help of the law enforcement agency with jurisdiction over their case to get their loved one's DNA sample entered into the FBI's CODIS database. This process will assist authorities across the county, and beyond, in matching family DNA samples with those of the missing and unidentified, no matter where they went missing or are found.
What are some common mistakes people make that get them killed in the wilderness?
MN: Getting lost or injured, and then succumbing to hypothermia (becoming too cold), hyperthermia (becoming overheated), dehydration (running out of water), often due to a lack of survival gear and proper insulating clothing in a daypack.
What are the most important steps people can take to prevent them from becoming a missing person?
MN: Always tell someone where you are going, etc. Use this hardcopy itinerary form I put together at www.MibSAR.com/classes/itin.pdf or download this itinerary app at www.AdventureSmart.ca
Always carry survival gear in your pockets, in case you get separated from your daypack.
Always carry a daypack lined with a large waterproof garbage bag containing insulating layers, rain gear, water, snacks, torso-length ground pad, large emergency blanket for shelter, metal cup for melting snow or boiling water; small saw, fire starters, lashing cordage, etc.
Carry a map, compass, and GPS unit, and learn how to use them beforehand.
Carry a Personal Locator Beacon (PLB), which will activate the satellite-based SARSAT-COSPAS international rescue system (the same system that provides authorities with the GPS coordinates for a plane when it crashes anywhere in the world).
How can people improve their situational awareness and decision making to help prevent them from becoming a missing person to begin with?
MN: To avoid poor decision making, always stay well hydrated and fueled-up, and never allow your body to get dangerously cold or hot. Always try to travel with a partner, and then monitor each other for signs of hyperthermia, hypothermia, and dehydration.
To learn more about wilderness tripping, read as much as you can, both in books and online; watch YouTube videos from experts; take classes; and find an experienced mentor. And then get outside as much as you can, starting locally, not venturing far from your vehicle, until you have learned the necessary wilderness skills for your desired outdoor activity.
About Michael Neiger
Hometown: Marquette, Michigan
Education: Ph.D. – Doctor of Philosophy in Political Science (Public Policy)
Childhood Idols: Frontiersman and soldier David Crockett – King of the Wild Frontier
Recommended Reading List:
Ultimate Navigation Manual: All the techniques you need to become an expert navigator, by Lyle Brother
Mountain and Moorland Navigation, by Kevin Walker
Essential Wilderness Navigation: A Real-World-Guide to Finding Your Way Safely in the Woods With or Without a Map Compass or GPS, by Craig Caudill & Tracy Trimble
Man Tracking in Law Enforcement, by David Michael Hull
Fundamentals of Mantracking: The step-by-step method, by Donald C. Cooper and Albert “Ab” Taylor
Bushcraft: Outdoor skills and wilderness survival, by Mors Kochanski
Bushcraft 101: A field guide to the art of wilderness survival, by Dave Canterbury
The SAS Survival Handbook: How to survive in the wild, in any climate, on land or at sea, by John ‘Lofty’ Wiseman
Favorite Movie: Black Hawk Down
Favorite Drink: Muscle Milk Protein Shake
Favorite Quote: Seek not the wilderness trip of a lifetime, but a lifetime of wilderness tripping!
Law Enforcement/SAR Experience:
26 years with Michigan State Police (Det/Sgt)
15 years with Michigan Backcountry Search and Rescue's (MibSAR) Long-Range Special Operations Group (LRSOG), (Founder and Lead Investigator)
Certified as a SAR TECH 1 and Crew Leader by the National Association for Search and Rescue (NASAR)
In the age of information, we often turn to the internet for quick answers to our questions. But what happens when the information we rely on is not only incorrect but potentially life-threatening? This is the issue mushroom enthusiasts are facing with the rise of AI written foraging guides on Amazon.
According to a recent article by Tech Times, Amazon's marketplace has been flooded with books that appear to be written by AI chatbots. Titles like “The Supreme Mushrooms Books Field Guide of the South-West” and “Wild Mushroom Cookbook: From Forest to Gourmet Plate, A Complete Guide to Wild Mushroom Cookery” have sparked controversy and concern among experts.
Why It's Risky Business
The issue isn't just about AI taking over human jobs; it's about the potential risks involved. Professor Myron Smith, a fungal expert at Carleton University, called these AI-generated materials “totally irresponsible.” The problem lies in the fact that identifying edible mushrooms from toxic ones often requires experience and expertise that a chatbot simply can't replicate.
The Bigger Picture
While mushroom foraging might seem like a niche topic, the implications are far-reaching. AI-generated content is infiltrating various industries, sometimes even impersonating authors. This raises questions about the reliability of information in an era where factual accuracy is crucial. Amazon has yet to clarify how they intend to handle this growing issue, but for now, it's buyer beware.
What Can You Do?
If you're into foraging or just love reading about it, make sure to buy books from known authors and experts. Your life could literally depend on it. And hey, while you're at it, why not support your local bookstores? They could use the love, and you'll be sure you're getting quality information.
Final Thoughts
In a world where AI is becoming increasingly sophisticated, it's essential to remain vigilant about the sources of our information. Whether it's mushroom foraging or any other specialized activity, let's make sure we're getting our facts from reliable sources. Because when it comes to matters of life and death, there's no room for error.
In recent times, a new form of criminal activity has been making headlines, particularly in California. Known as “bank jugging,” this crime involves criminals observing individuals as they leave financial institutions, visibly holding cash. The criminals then follow their targets to their next destination, seizing the opportunity to either burglarize the vehicle or commit robbery directly.
The Anatomy of a Bank Jugging Crime
The Fontana police department in California recently took to Instagram to warn residents about the escalating number of bank jugging incidents. In a typical scenario, a person leaves a bank holding cash, drives to another location, and becomes a victim of theft or robbery. For instance, in July, a man left a Fontana bank with $1,060 in cash, drove to a nearby Walgreen's, and while he was inside, thieves broke into his car and stole the money.
Not Just a California Problem
While California has seen a surge in these incidents, the problem is not confined to the Golden State. The Orlando Police Department in Florida also warned of a “major uptick” in bank jugging cases. The alarming part? It takes mere seconds for these criminals to complete the robbery.
Safety Tips to Consider
The police have offered some safety tips to help you avoid becoming a victim of bank jugging. These include being vigilant for people loitering around financial institutions, avoiding distractions like using your phone, securing cash in a nondescript bag, and being conscious of any vehicles that might be following you. If you suspect you're being followed, call 911 immediately or head straight to the nearest police or fire station.
The Importance of Awareness
While it's essential to be cautious, awareness is your first line of defense. Knowing what to look for and how to react can make all the difference. So, let's be vigilant and look out for one another because safety is a collective responsibility.
