Tracking is one of humanity’s oldest survival skills, honed by necessity and refined by generations. Yet, in our modern age of convenience, the primal art of tracking often feels like a relic of the past. That was the premise of “Grayside Hunter,” a two-day urban tracking course taught by Freddy Osuna, founder of Greenside Training. As the only Native American-owned and operated tracking school, Greenside Training offers a perspective deeply rooted in tradition while addressing contemporary challenges. Here are some of the key lessons I took away from this transformative experience.
Freddy Osuna of Greenside Training shows us how far we can see with our peripheral vision.
Urban Tracking: A Modern Skill with Ancient Roots
Day one began in a classroom setting, where Osuna laid the groundwork for understanding tracking. He reminded us that the ability to track is hardwired into human nature — our brains evolved to recognize patterns and interpret the world through observation. This skill, once critical for survival, has practical applications today in search and rescue, law enforcement, wildlife conservation, and even urban environments. But beyond the scope of those who protect and defend, learning tracking skills can help boost critical awareness skills important to the average citizen.
Tracking, Osuna explained, is not just about following footprints but about “reading the story written in the sand.” Each step is like a word, and many steps form sentences, creating a narrative that reveals the quarry’s movements and intentions. Using the analogy of separating quarters from a pile of mixed coins, he demonstrated how our brains, once trained, can quickly identify patterns that might otherwise go unnoticed or get lost in the noise.
Small details will help the tracker determine if they’re following the correct track or not.
The Human Advantage
Osuna drew an insightful comparison between modern humans and our ancestors, likening us to domestic dogs and wolves. While we’ve grown reliant on modern conveniences, our fundamental tools for survival remain intact. Sight, smell, and hearing are as sharp as ever — they just need retraining.
He emphasized how tracking training reignites these primal instincts, enabling us to perceive and interpret “sign” or evidence of passage. This skill, he noted, has life-or-death implications in various fields, from combat operations to anti-poaching efforts.
Oblivious to the fact they are under observation, the quarry meet at a restaurant to make an exchange.
Primal Learning and Visual Perception
One of the most fascinating parts of the course was learning about human visual perception. Osuna broke down how our eyes and brains process visual information, including the three visual fields: full view, peripheral view, and central view. Our saccadic eye movements — subtle, constant shifts in focus — are evolutionary adaptations designed to detect predators and anomalies in our surroundings. The human eye also has a blind spot because of the way the optic nerve attaches to the retina. Our brains stitch this spot in by something referred to as “perceptual fill,” another important visual adaptation.
By training these visual skills, trackers can identify minute details, such as the subtle shine change of disturbed soil or the outline of a boot print. Osuna’s description of our blind spot — where our brains fill in missing information — reminded us of the importance of conscious observation and avoiding assumptions.
The inside of a vehicle can be turned into a mobile observation post.
Rules of the Trail
During the classroom portion, we learned a helpful mnemonic to remember foundational tracking principles. These were encapsulated in the acronym TRACKING:
• Tracker sets the pace. • Record your starting point. • Always know your position. • Confirm aerial spoor with ground spoor. • Keep visual on the track with team position. • Identify the tracks you wish to follow. • Never force a track to conform to preconceptions. • Get into the mind of your quarry.
These rules were reinforced through drills, where we practiced identifying individual characteristics of tracks, such as tread patterns and stride anomalies. We also learned how environmental factors like light and terrain influence the clarity of tracks.
Using high-powered optics, Greenside trackers carefully observe their quarry from a concealed vantage point in a parking garage.
Urban Tracking: A Unique Challenge
Day two brought the ultimate test: tracking quarry through downtown Tucson, Arizona. The mission began with a briefing scenario, not a real-world situation of course, but certainly one that could plausibly arise. A law enforcement agency requested assistance in tracking three suspects from their last known point. Our objective was to locate and observe them, gather evidence of their movements, and, if possible, confirm whether or not they make some sort of exchange.
Split into three teams — Alpha, Bravo, and Charlie — we started tracking from the suspect’s truck in a parking lot. Using track traps and transference points like dusty patches or scuff marks on sidewalks, we followed their trail. Each team faced unique challenges in interpreting subtle signs while navigating the complexities of an urban environment, including hard surfaces and crowded areas. Communication became critical as we coordinated movements, relayed findings, and maintained situational awareness.
The teams worked together relatively seamlessly, balancing speed with caution to avoid losing the trail or alerting the suspects. By observing from a distance and using cover effectively, we eventually spotted the suspects meeting at a designated location. From an observation post in a nearby parking garage, we confirmed their identities and documented their exchange with photos and notes.
Osuna concluded the exercise by demonstrating how to establish long-term observation posts and the nuances of using optics effectively in urban environments. We were then shown how a vehicle could be transformed into a mobile observation post, without a passing pedestrian being able determine what was happening inside. This hands-on scenario brought the principles of tracking to life, emphasizing teamwork, observation, and adaptability in a setting far removed from traditional wilderness.
Our class was a diverse crew. From construction workers, to cooks and chemists, we all walked away with an amplified awareness of our urban environment.
Final Thoughts on the Grayside Hunter Urban Tacking Course
Greenside Training's Grayside Hunter course was a journey into rediscovering an ancient skill that remains relevant in our modern world. The urban tracking scenario demonstrated how cities, despite their structured appearance, mimic wilderness environments. Streets and buildings funnel movement much like natural terrain, offering opportunities to predict and follow a quarry’s path. Yet, urban tracking also presents unique challenges, such as numerous hiding places and potential for eliminated ground spoor signatures for the untrained observer.
Osuna’s teaching method, inspired by a long lineage of hunting and tracking experts and combined with how children learn languages, made complex concepts accessible and memorable. His blend of tradition, science, and practical application highlighted the universal value of tracking — as a tool for survival, a way to connect with our primal nature, and a means of seeking truth.
By the end of the course, I left with more than a Greenside Training patch and Tracker tab. I gained a deeper appreciation for the art of tracking and its role in bridging the gap between the natural and urban worlds. No matter who you are, or what your background is, the lessons of Grayside Hunter offer invaluable insights into both the wilderness and ourselves, proving that the skill of tracking has no boundaries.
One of the hardest diagnoses to make in a perfect world is that of abdominal pain. It can be a challenge in the austere setting, but it’s not impossible. This article will cover some topics to explore further and some common causes of abdominal pain. There are many books on the subject of abdominal pain.
Abdomen Sections
However, one that gets passed around the halls of surgical residency is Cope’s Early Diagnosis of the Acute Abdomen (now in its 22nd edition). This book is worth having in your library if you plan on being medically astute in the austere setting. One of the helpful parts of the book is that it divides abdominal pain into quadrants and provides potential diagnoses for each quadrant. Although Cope’s delineation of pain may be beneficial, it may be better thought of to divide abdominal pain into six sections as shown in the photo below:
The abdomen is divided into sections.
• Section 1: Common ailments include gastritis, gastric ulcer, pancreatitis, and duodenal ulcer. • Section 2: Moving clockwise around the abdomen, includes kidney stones, splenic injury/laceration, constipation, and colonic ileus. • Section 3: Could also see constipation, colon inflammation, and kidney stones. The ovarian cyst could also be seen in the lower aspect of this section. • Section 4: Could include bladder stones, bladder outlet obstruction, prostatitis, urethritis, sigmoiditis, and proctitis. • Section 5: Contains the start of the colon, appendix, right ovary, and kidney stones. • Section 6: The last in the sections, could encompass kidney stones, gall bladder/cholecystitis, liver inflammation, and colon issues like constipation.
This list isn’t meant to be complete. However, it’s meant to be a starting point to investigate further.
Natural remedies for constipation.
Abdominal Pain: Constipation
This is probably the most common disorder that’ll be seen in the off-grid scenario. It is often described as a hard, lumpy stool with less than three bowel movements a week. Dehydration will contribute significantly, as the colon’s primary function is to consolidate waste and absorb water. The pain from constipation can present throughout the abdomen as the colon travels from the anus upward toward the left rib cage.
Pain then traverses across the abdomen to the right rib cage and then down to the right lower part of the abdomen. The pain is usually described as an ache but can also be sharp. People may say that they have gone to the bathroom multiple times despite having the pain. Don’t let that piece of history fool you into some other diagnosis. Usually having a bowel movement will ease the pain. Failure to relieve the constipation can lead to a blockage of the colon. This can potentially lead to a rupture of the colon, infection inside the abdomen, and even death. This would be an extreme case, however, and usually, the pain drives the patient to seek help before it gets to this point.
Things to try if constipation is present include a magnesium citrate supplement, as the adverse effect of magnesium toxicity is diarrhea. Of course, rehydration is essential, and previous RECOIL OFFGRID articles may be helpful to review (read “Managing Dehydration” in Issue 28). Foods like bananas, garlic, onions, and leeks all contain prebiotics, which may be beneficial. Another good food is grandma’s favorite, prunes. There may be some trial and error in determining how many prunes it will take to relieve constipation. This would be good to know before the scenario presents itself, especially if there is a tendency toward constipation in a typical environment.
Natural remedies for kidney stones.
Abdominal Pain: Kidney Stones (Nephrolithiasis)
These never seem to present themselves at a good moment. The sharp, knife-like pain can start at the kidney and travel into the labia or testicle. It doesn’t have to radiate, so don’t rely solely on the radiating pain for diagnosis. The pain of kidney stones is quite memorable and never forgotten. Sometimes there can be blood in the urine associated with the traveling kidney stone. If there is a feeling that urine won’t come out at all, that is a medical emergency and needs an evaluation by a medical professional. This can mean a stone has blocked the tube (urethra) as it leaves the bladder. Failure to relieve the obstruction can result in kidney failure, heart failure, and death.
Hydration is the key to helping the stone travel down the tube from the kidney to the bladder and from the bladder out of the body. When the pain from the kidney stone hits, movement, such as walking, is one of the first things to try, along with hydration. Some natural remedies to try include lemon juice or apple cider vinegar. These have citrate, which can help break down the calcium in the kidney stones. Dandelion root juice can increase urine output, which may help eliminate the stone.
If a fever develops, antibiotics (ciprofloxacin) can be taken orally. However, this may not be enough, as the infection could be in the kidney (pyelonephritis), which would require intravenous antibiotics and the care of a physician.
Natural remedies to help with appendicitis.
Abdominal Pain: Appendicitis
Rarely will this go away on its own with rest, antibiotics, and fluids. It’s often in need of surgical intervention and supervised medical care. Classically, the pain starts as a dull ache around the belly button and then migrates to the right lower quadrant of the abdomen, into Section 5. Often, a loss of appetite occurs. Some surgeons will say that dehydration can play a part in the development of appendicitis, but not all agree.
Although nobody really has a definitive cause for appendicitis, things like infection, tumors, and stool lodged in the appendiceal opening can lead to inflammation that causes the pain. The pain pattern can vary widely, which is why it’s often misdiagnosed. Suspicion of appendicitis must be high for any right lower quadrant pain, and medical treatment must be sought. Failure to diagnose appendicitis in a timely manner could lead to rupture of the appendix. This causes infection in the abdomen and possibly death.
While in transit to a medical facility, a trial of natural anti-inflammatories may be helpful. Things like strawberries, blueberries, green leafy vegetables (kale, spinach), and foods high in omega-3 fatty acids, such as salmon, can help with inflammation. Willow bark contains salicylates (like that found in aspirin) and may be helpful. The problem with taking the willow bark, as well as hydration, is that if surgery is an option, it may be delayed until the stomach contents are emptied. Salicylates may provide additional risk due to the increased risk of bleeding during surgery. Caution should be used if appendicitis is being considered in the austere setting, and early diagnosis by a medical professional is essential.
Natural remedies to help with ovarian cysts.
Abdominal Pain: Ovarian Cyst
If appendicitis is nebulous in the way it presents, ovarian cysts are a close second. Most of the time, an ovarian cyst creates no problems. Sometimes, a cyst can produce pain, whether it’s a dull ache or a sharp pain. Bloating can also accompany an ovarian cyst. There could be pain upon sexual intercourse. Fever, nausea, vaginal discharge, or bleeding are also possible presenting signs and symptoms. The ovaries are located in Sections 4 and 5 in the diagram. Usually, the pain is one-sided and can be mild to intense in nature.
These cysts will typically resolve on their own. The situation becomes more concerning when the ovary twists (ovarian torsion). This can lead to intense pain, fever, and weakness and requires evaluation by a physician as well as emergency surgery to repair the torsion. Failure to seek help could result in a loss of blood, infection in the abdomen, and, in rare cases, death.
One thing to keep in mind is that if there’s a personal history of an ovarian cyst, the likelihood that a second develops at some point is possible. If they have developed in the past, there should be familiarity with the pain pattern. Treatment for these is usually time, hormones, or surgery. Since the problem stems from too much unopposed estrogen, natural remedies could help to a small degree.
Vegetables like kale, broccoli, cauliflower, and brussels sprouts can help the liver clear the estrogen a little better from the system. Also, by adding fiber, the colon can pack up the estrogen and eliminate it so it does not get reabsorbed into the body. Things like whole grains, fruits, and oats can add dietary fiber to help with regular bowel movements.
Keep in mind that stress can decrease the progesterone in the body, leaving the estrogen unopposed. This creates a scenario where an ovarian cyst could be a potential problem in the austere setting due to the increased stress.
The current version of this helpful book can be found online at Amazon.com
Conclusion
Abdominal pain in the austere setting can be an enigma. Knowing a little information can be helpful but often not adequate to diagnose and treat the ailment. Knowing when to seek medical attention is critical to preventing a more serious casualty. Although four examples were presented here in this article, there are many more ailments to cover. Further reading on this topic is warranted to become more astute in the diagnosis of abdominal pain.
Covert Physical Surveillance (CPS) is a powerful tool, often employed by law enforcement to gather intelligence, monitor suspects, and pursue criminals undetected. But these techniques aren’t exclusive to the good guys. Increasingly, CPS is leveraged by criminals to stalk, intimidate, and even victimize unsuspecting targets. Understanding how CPS operates — and more critically, how to counter it — is vital not only for those in law enforcement but for civilians, too.
The threat isn’t just hypothetical. According to the U.S. Department of Justice’s Stalking Victimization Report (2019), about 1.3 percent of individuals aged 16 or older — equating to 3.4 million people — were victims of stalking that year. While this figure represents a slight drop from previous years, the danger remains very real. Disturbingly, only 29 percent of stalking victims reported the crime, with women affected at twice the rate of men. Among those impacted, 67 percent feared serious physical harm or even death at the hands of their stalker. Recent incidents in California illustrate just how CPS techniques are applied in real-world criminal scenarios. A rising trend of “follow home robberies” has left police and communities on high alert. At least 17 gangs in Los Angeles have been employing CPS methods to tail unsuspecting victims as they leave high-end stores or restaurants. These criminals wait for their targets to be isolated, such as when entering their homes, before launching brazen attacks to steal high-value items like jewelry and watches.
In one incident, a woman leaving a jewelry store was tailed, confronted, and eventually forced to hand over her valuables. This type of attack, fueled by calculated surveillance, is becoming disturbingly common as robbers learn to exploit CPS strategies once reserved for law enforcement. These examples underscore a need for greater awareness and understanding of surveillance techniques. Whether law enforcement uses CPS for legitimate purposes or criminals adopt similar tactics to prey on civilians, knowing how to recognize — and counter — surveillance is an increasingly essential skill.
Law enforcement watches for signs of erratic driving in the traffic ahead.
Surveillance 101
At its core, CPS is the practice of discreetly observing a subject without their knowledge. It’s a staple of law enforcement operations, used in everything from narcotics investigations to fugitive tracking and SWAT intelligence gathering. While technological tools like drones or satellite imagery may seem to dominate modern-day surveillance, there’s no replacement for boots-on-the-ground, real-time observation.
Surveillance allows law enforcement to track a suspect’s movements, gather intel on their associates, and even identify patterns of behavior that might signal when and where a crime will occur. But CPS also serves a dual purpose. The same skills used by law enforcement to protect communities can be flipped on their head and used by criminals for nefarious purposes. Knowing how CPS works — and being able to spot when someone is using it on you — is critical in today’s world.
Is the same vehicle following you wherever you go? It may be someone with bad intentions.
Filling in the Training Gaps
Training lies at the heart of a successful surveillance operation. Many law enforcement officers, despite working in environments where CPS could be vital, receive little formal training in this area. This was one of the key reasons behind the creation of a four-day course recently offered by OPTEMPO Training Group in the Bay Area.
Instructors Matt and Chris shared their combined expertise, teaching participants how to effectively observe a target without being noticed. Many participants admitted that their surveillance experience had previously been “on the job,” with little to no formal instruction. This course allowed them to fill in those gaps, gain new skills, and refine their existing techniques. In law enforcement, CPS is used to track suspects in real-time, ensuring that officers can intervene at critical moments without alerting the target. But CPS also has broader applications — particularly in the realm of self-defense and personal protection.
One of the course’s standout lessons was the reminder that CPS tactics aren’t limited to law enforcement. Criminals often use these same techniques to stalk and target vulnerable people. In an era where 67 percent of stalking victims fear being killed or physically harmed, it’s clear that understanding how CPS works can provide a civilian with the awareness they need to stay safe.
A person’s attire can be a sign that they are up to no good.
Key Lessons
The four-day CPS training course provided by OPTEMPO Training Group in San Ramon, California, emphasized several key principles for anyone involved in surveillance or concerned about being watched. Here are some of the most important lessons: Communication is the key to success: The foundation of any surveillance operation is communication. For law enforcement, this means radio communication must be clear, concise, and discreet. Participants in the course learned that miscommunication — or even using a radio improperly, such as holding it too close to the mouth — can compromise an entire surveillance operation.
For civilians, communication means alerting someone when you suspect you’re being followed. Whether it’s through an emergency app, a phone call to a trusted friend, or alerting security in public spaces, quick and effective communication is crucial to evading potential threats.
Vehicle choice and setup: Surveillance often takes place in vehicles, so blending into traffic is essential. Instructors taught participants to avoid using easily identifiable cars, such as unmarked police vehicles or vehicles with modifications that draw attention. Instead, vehicles that don’t draw attention work best. Participants practiced subtle methods to stay unnoticed, like managing visibility and using simple props. Civilians can apply this knowledge by being mindful of cars that seem out of place or are behaving unusually, such as repeatedly pulling up behind them or stopping for extended periods without reason. Similarly, it’s worth remembering that appearances alone don’t always reveal someone’s true intentions.
Positioning and staying hidden: A significant part of CPS involves using the environment to your advantage. Surveillance officers are trained to use reflective surfaces, parked cars, alleyways, and other features to keep an eye on their target without being seen. The aim is to keep a safe distance while still observing carefully. Civilians should take note of how they can use public spaces to protect themselves. For instance, heading to a crowded shopping mall or public building can make it harder for someone following you to stay hidden. Being aware of your environment is key to avoiding unwanted attention.
Avoiding telltale signs: In any surveillance operation, drawing attention to yourself is the last thing you want to do. Matt and Chris repeatedly emphasized that small mistakes — such as holding a radio too obviously or wearing tactical or law enforcement-style clothing — can give a surveillance team away. Participants were guided to avoid noticeable actions that could attract unwanted attention while observing.
The same principles apply to civilians. For example, if you repeatedly notice someone following around wearing something out of place — like a hoodie on a hot day, or something not often seen in the area — then perhaps they’re inadvertently giving themselves away as up to no good. Blending in with the crowd can be a safety measure as well. Wearing low-profile clothing and avoiding flashy or distinctive accessories can help you blend in, since criminals often target people wearing expensive jewelry or other accessories. For instance, rookie 49ers receiver Ricky Pearsall was the target of an armed robbery in broad daylight over his wristwatch. He survived being shot in the chest, but countless others aren’t as fortunate.
Rehearsals are conducted in the classroom before practicing the skills on the streets.
Counter-Surveillance: How to Stay One Step Ahead
While law enforcement uses CPS to catch criminals, it’s crucial for civilians to understand how to spot when someone is watching them. Knowing basic counter-surveillance techniques can help you avoid becoming a victim of stalking or other crimes.
Recognizing Surveillance Indicators
The first step in protecting yourself from surveillance is knowing what to look for. If someone is following you, they might exhibit several telltale signs:
Multiple turns in the same direction: If after making frequent or unnecessary turns, you notice the same vehicle improbably following each of those, it could be someone trying to follow you.
Lingering vehicles or pedestrians: A car that pulls up behind you multiple times or someone who seems to be watching but avoids eye contact could be signs that you’re under surveillance.
Erratic driving or behavior: Abrupt lane changes, stops, or U-turns can be indicators of someone attempting to keep up with you.
Change Your Routine
One of the simplest ways to avoid being targeted is to be unpredictable. Criminals rely on patterns of behavior to plan their actions. Whether it’s driving a different route to work, parking in a different place, or changing your schedule, small adjustments to your daily routine can throw off someone who’s trying to gather information on you.
Go Public
If you suspect someone is following you, head for a well-lit, crowded area. Whether it’s a shopping center, a grocery store, or a police station, being in a public space makes it much harder for someone to maintain covert surveillance without being noticed. It’s important to keep moving until you’re sure you’ve reached a safe destination, since it’s easy for a tailing criminal to jump out and carjack their victims. Sticking to the right side of the road and avoiding getting stuck at a left-hand turn will minimize the chances of having to stop before reaching safety.
Trust Your Instincts
Matt emphasized throughout the course that trusting your gut is essential. If something doesn’t feel right — whether it’s a person who seems out of place or a car that’s been tailing you — it’s better to act on that instinct than to ignore it. Calling a friend, heading to a public place, or even alerting authorities can prevent a dangerous situation from escalating.
Several layers of communication provide much needed redundancy. Many hours are spent simply watching for signs of criminal intent, which is a true test of stamina.
Keeping Law Enforcement and Civilians Safe
Law enforcement’s ability to conduct CPS is a critical component of modern policing, but it’s not a skill that can be mastered overnight. Many officers receive only minimal training in CPS, learning much of what they know through the potentially dangerous method of trial and error. This is where dedicated surveillance courses like those offered by OPTEMPO Training Group become invaluable.
The recent Bay Area CPS course provided participants with a hands-on opportunity to practice surveillance in real-world environments, refining their skills and preparing them for the challenges of tracking suspects in the field. As law enforcement faces increasingly complex threats, having officers trained in the nuances of surveillance ensures that they can protect their communities more effectively.
And while CPS training is primarily for law enforcement, civilians and businesses can benefit from understanding these tactics as well. Criminals use many of the same techniques to gather information on their victims, whether for stalking, robbery, or other illegal activities. By learning how to spot surveillance and adopting counter-surveillance strategies, civilians can protect themselves from being targeted.
Using mirrors to observe is a less obvious method than staring directly out of a window. A bad actor may do this to avoid suspicion.
Vigilance in a World of Surveillance
In a world where everything from phones to traffic lights seem to be keeping an eye on things, it can be easy to become complacent or tune out surveillance as background noise. However, surveillance is a tool used by people with bad intentions just as much as it is by those who protect us. Understanding the techniques of covert physical surveillance and applying counter-surveillance strategies can mean the difference between becoming a victim or staying one step ahead.
Law enforcement officers rely on CPS to track criminals and keep communities safe, but as we’ve seen from crime statistics, criminals are also using these tactics to stalk and prey on vulnerable individuals and other targets. By recognizing the signs of surveillance, staying unpredictable, and trusting your instincts, civilians can take proactive steps to protect themselves. The training provided by organizations like OPTEMPO Training Group ensures that law enforcement remains vigilant, skilled, and prepared to handle the evolving threats they face in the field.
In the end, the most important takeaway is that surveillance — whether by law enforcement or criminals — is happening all around us. If you feel that you, your home, your business, or someone you love is being watched, contact your local law enforcement before it’s too late. Staying informed, aware, and prepared allows us to navigate this reality with confidence, ensuring our safety and the safety of those around us.
When trapped behind enemy lines or lost in the wilderness, survival often comes down to resourcefulness, adaptability, and grit. Human ingenuity has always been the best tool for evading capture and staying alive. But how do elite operatives manage to escape hostile environments, traverse perilous terrain, and ultimately make it home?
Will Fowler, a military historian and writer, delves into the strategies and techniques employed by some of the world’s most elite special forces in The Special Forces Guide to Escape and Evasion. From the jungles of Vietnam to urban war zones, this guide provides a peek into the mental and physical training that enables soldiers to thrive in the face of insurmountable odds.
The 411
Fowler’s book explores the art of evading capture, a skill that begins long before pursuers are on your trail. He explains the importance of understanding how to mask your movements, blend into the environment, and anticipate the tactics of those seeking to apprehend you. Throughout a variety of environments and ecosystems, Fowler provides strategies to remain undetected, such as avoiding high-traffic areas, using natural cover effectively, and creating misleading signs of your trail. He draws from real-world military operations to showcase how these techniques have been successfully employed under dire circumstances.
The book then transitions into the core principles of survival, covering essentials like shelter building, fire-starting, sourcing water, and foraging for food. Fowler details how to construct a shelter using minimal materials and explains the science of fire-making in wet or windy conditions. The water procurement strategies go beyond basic advice, including techniques such as creating solar stills or tapping into vegetation for hydration. Foraging is explored not only as a means of sustenance but also as a way to understand the environment, with guidance on identifying edible plants and avoiding toxic ones.
Once captured, the book emphasizes conduct after capture as a critical phase of survival. Fowler outlines how to remain mentally resilient, gather information about your captors, and find ways to subtly prepare for escape. He discusses psychological strategies to withstand interrogation and manipulation while maintaining composure and focus. The goal, he explains, is to survive and create opportunities for escape without compromising one’s safety or giving in to despair.
Fowler explores hiding and evading during the journey to safety, as well as the triumphant return to friendly territory, referred to as the “home run.” Hiding and evading require not only stealth but also knowledge of the terrain and the ability to adapt to changing conditions. Fowler details how to construct temporary hiding places, use natural features for concealment, and evade pursuit dogs and tracking teams. The “home run” is the final phase, where evaders must navigate the last stretch to reach safety, often requiring communication with allies or signaling for rescue without alerting enemies. Fowler highlights historical accounts of who completed their escapes, using their stories to inspire readers and reinforce the importance of determination, skill, and perseverance in survival.
The Verdict
This book isn’t just for survival enthusiasts or history buffs — it’s a goldmine for anyone looking to better understand human resilience. Fowler presents his material in an approachable way, making it equally useful for seasoned survivalists and beginners. That said, the content does lean heavily on military contexts. If you’re looking for purely wilderness survival strategies, you might find some chapters overly tactical. But for those who appreciate the intersection of survival psychology and practical skill, this guide is hard to beat. The Special Forces Guide to Escape and Evasion is a testament to the ingenuity and endurance of those who refuse to surrender. Whether you’re prepping for the worst or just want to push the limits of your knowledge, this book deserves a spot
About the Book
Book & Author: The Special Forces Guide to Escape and Evasion By Will Fowler
Winter’s chill can hit like a punch to the chest, but the right kit turns frosty ground into just another stretch of road. We’ve pulled together gear that holds its own in teeth-chattering conditions — boots that fight off numb toes, a beanie hiding a spare key, and tools that earn their keep when the mercury dives. Ahead, you’ll find a few standout picks that kept us warm, a range of gear that really earned its keep in the freeze, and a final rundown of the top performers that rose above the rest.
At first glance you might think the Crazy Creek Hex 2.0 is just another lightweight camp chair. Well, it's not. Keeping you warm and dry is an ultralight 8mm-thick closed-cell foam packable seat that can double as a short sleeping pad. The Hex 2.0 rolls up to just 4 inches in diameter and weighs in at a mere 1.45 pounds. Not only will the high-density cored closed-cell foam keep you warm, the 210d coated ripstop nylon shell will also aid in keeping you dry while you take a load off by the fire, river, or sit on a cold aluminum bench at a football game.
This chair is virtually indestructible with its carbon-fiber-reinforced fiberglass stays and rubber and nylon hinges. At 21 inches tall, the Hex 2.0 gives plenty of back support for comfort. At 16 inches deep and 17 inches wide, the user has plenty of real estate to be comfortable sitting or sleeping in the Hex 2.0 from Crazy Creek.
Helikon-Tex builds on the legacy set forth by frontiersman with the Swagman Roll. It’s a hybrid piece of gear. It's a lightweight synthetic poncho liner at its core, but is also a blanket, sleeping bag, and an under quilt for a hammock. The loft of the Climashield insulation provides enough warmth in cool weather to keep you comfortable without being bulky. In cold weather, it may not be enough to keep you comfortable, but it’ll keep you alive in a pinch. In subzero temps, it’s a welcomed addition to a sleeping bag as a liner.
The DWR (Durable Water Repellent) coating helps keep the user from getting soaked in a storm without compromising much needed breathability. Measuring 57 by 78 inches, the Swagman Roll is compatible with the standard USGI poncho. It has a warm hood and a zippered chest pocket that doubles as its own integrated storage pocket and fastens in front and behind the wearer to seal in the warmth. Available in 11 solid colors and seven camouflage patterns.
This Hand Warmer offers a lot of versatility and seamlessly integrates with your outdoor recreation or tactical gear. Velcro attachments allow the user to attach to a plate carrier as a dangler or wrap them directly around their belt as a stand-alone pouch. The Hand Warmer was specifically designed to keep the wearer's hands warm in cold and wet conditions.
Made from water-repellent 500D Cordura with grid fleece interior that helps to keep dexterity in the fingers. The addition of elastic cuffs at each end help to seal in the heat. Zippered pockets front and back can be fitted with chemical hand warmers to increase the heat if needed to truly guarantee the wearer keeps full mobility of their fingers. The design has a slim profile that ensures it stays out of the way when not in use. Defense Mechanisms offers the Hand Warmer in 16 colors and patterns that are made to order.
The Cache Beanie is a high-quality, warm, merino wool watchman-style cap. With a thick design and a 3-inch cuff, this beanie won't cause hot spots or itching. There’s a hidden pocket in the fleece-lined headband for your cache. The pocket is wide enough to accept a credit card and expands enough for a few small emergency items such as a spare key, mini ferro rod and striker, or hunting license. The hidden pocket is secured by a low-profile Velcro closure and camouflaged by the “Made in Colorado” tag.
This tag doubles as a pull tab to access your hidden gems. Inside the pocket is a sewn-in lanyard loop for added retention of important items. Each hat is hand-loomed, trimmed, and stitched in the United States. Offered in six colors and one size fits most.
A great feature of the A.T.A.C. 2.0 is that there’s very little break-in period required before they’re ready for a long trek. Waterproof and breathable, the A.T.A.C. 2.0 has 400 grams of insulation, making the boots warm enough for cold conditions without adding bulk or overly hot. A full-length dual durometer Ortholite footbed helps your feet stay dry and comfortable on long days in the field.
The Achilles’ heel area — where taller boots typically become uncomfortable, and requiring longer break-in periods — has ample range of motion due to a small scalloped-out flex zone. Oil- and slip-resistant sole, full-grain leather toe, 840D nylon upper, waterproof, full-lace front, medial zipper, and lateral knife pocket provide the security, stability, and durability you need while on the trail or on shift.
Table One Hard Top is a highly condensed packable backpacking camp table. Manufactured from a proprietary DAC aluminum alloy built for strength and durability, its frame and legs collapse down to a manageable 16 by 5 by 4 inches and tuck neatly into an included carry case. A top constructed of 600D polyester resists harsh conditions.
Five polycarbonate sheets sewn into a Z-fold top keep it rigid. Setting it up takes about one minute, and Table One Hard Top weighs just 2 pounds, yet still supports up to 110 pounds. Measuring 15 inches high and 23 inches long, it’s more suited to sitting beside someone rather than under them. Legs remain consolidated much like tent stakes. A shock cord runs from each attachment hub to its corresponding legs, and each leg section connects directly to the one ahead. This design ensures components stay close at hand, minimizing losses during low-light setup or takedown.
It’s no secret that water purity has taken some hits lately, with contamination lurking in sources we rely on every day. Chemicals from intensive farming, industrial runoff, and pharmaceuticals seep into supplies, posing legitimate health concerns. Epic Water Filters, in partnership with Nalgene, stepped forward to tackle this issue. Their NSF-certified filters target common threats like chlorine, lead, and PFAS.
Each kit includes two filters: Everywhere Filter, suited for any fresh water source and capable of removing over 200 contaminants — metals, bacteria, viruses, and cryptosporidium — and EveryTap Filter, built for public water and effective against 70 different pollutants. Each filter can replace more than 550 single-use bottles, easing pressure on landfills and oceans. Nalgene bottles are inherently BPA and PFAS free, offering well-known durability and a dependable, leak-free design. Installing or swapping filters is simple, and each one provides roughly 75 gallons of clean, safe drinking water.
Stormrider Underlord acts as a low-profile EDC under belt designed to pair seamlessly with a fully outfitted battle or range belt — holsters, pouches, magazines, and all. Its outside surface features loop Velcro, providing a secure bond to the belt’s hook Velcro. An internal Velcro adjustment system, combined with a loop keeper, takes the place of a bulkier Cobra buckle.
This simple omission cuts weight, cost, and visible profile. Each Underlord includes 8 inches of loop Velcro on the inside: 4 inches ensure a solid closure and another 4 inches allow for easy sizing adjustments, handy for anyone carrying an inside-the-waistband holster. Its pliable nature keeps things comfortable, yet still rigid enough to serve as an everyday utility belt. Stormrider offers seven base colors along with five loop Velcro color options to match personal preferences.
Personal information protection matters more now than ever. Criminals target all kinds of data, and details from hotel key cards, credit cards, licenses, and badges are no exception. Vulnerable info could grant access to bank accounts, offices, and even homes. Celtic Shield, proudly American made, provides a wide range of material options — brass, copper, titanium, aluminum — and various finishes like Cerakote, anodizing, patina, and laser engraving, making each piece easy to customize.
Choose a money clip or band, a plain slick cover or a challenge coin cover for cherished items or even fit in an Apple AirTag for added security and convenience.
In the spirit of leaving no surface unused, Grayfighter seizes every inch of your holster with a low-profile approach to tourniquet carry. Consider SRC-4, a uniquely designed addition crafted for outside-the-waistband pistol holsters. Choose from classic leather or laser-cut Tegris as the chassis material. Lightweight and incredibly durable, SRC-4 follows a modular layout that accommodates small accessories — marking devices, flashlights, spare magazines — on its three-panel MOLLE field, along with a tourniquet at your holster’s forward edge.
Tourniquets remain firmly secured by a 1.5-inch elastic band compatible with popular models: North American Rescue C-A-T 7, SOF T Wide, and Snakestaff Systems. This elastic feature allows quick retrieval of life-saving gear under stress. Compatible with Safariland holsters, Blackhawk T-Series, and Alien Gear Rapid Force, SRC-4 arrives in a variety of color choices from Grayfighter to suit individual preferences.
Rapid Radios Nationwide PTT Walkie-Talkie
QUANTITY: 2-Pack, 3-Pack, 4-Pack, 6-Pack, Base/Car Unit
Rapid Radios might be the solution if dealing with a HAM radio’s complexities isn’t appealing. Rapid Radios Nationwide Push-To-Talk is straightforward, taking only a brief moment to learn its menus and functions. Group chats can include up to 200 people at once, or choose a single user for private communication.
As long as everyone involved owns a Rapid Radio, you’re all set. Distance and usage face no limits if you stay within the United States. No monthly fee, no tests, and no license are required. Each unit arrives with an activated SIM card lasting a full year. Renewing service costs $50 per year. Rapid Radios have seen action during recent disasters across our country with proven success. Just push and talk.
Quick Feather was designed as a highly functional everyday carry folder that also delivers style. Sealed stainless steel ball bearings ensure smooth, reliable blade deployment. Measuring 2.85 inches, its tough, corrosion-resistant VG10 steel blade locks securely via a knurled liner lock. A partially tri-serrated blade features flat peaks for easier maintenance than traditional serrations.
To honor its fire-starting roots, a 90-degree milled segment along the spine pairs perfectly with a ferro rod. Dark gray G10 scales maintain a reliable grip in damp conditions and hold up well over time. Scales also support a reversible, tip-up pocket clip accented in bronze. Quick Feather arrives with two styles of deep-carry pocket clips, providing options to suit individual preference.
ASAP 20 is built for short-duration missions and activities, yet hardly lacks in features. The weather-resistant tri-closure front — a signature Mystery Ranch detail — opens to reveal a five-panel Velcro MOLLE field for accessories, a three-liter water bladder sleeve, and a zippered pocket. Zippered lid includes an additional zippered pocket inside, keeping small items separate and accessible.
Two internal side pockets, each equipped with a MOLLE panel, form the pack’s front when zipped, enabling extra gear attachments. Contoured padded shoulder straps promote circulation for comfort and won’t interfere with rifle slings or other equipment. A breathable airdyne mesh back maintains airflow. A 1-inch waist belt keeps loads secure during rapid or dynamic movement and can be removed if not needed.
Vigilance doesn’t fade just because we’re unwinding outdoors. Fith Ops provides numerous trip-wire-based perimeter alarms that are simple to set up, keeping campsites secure. Consider the 12 Gauge Digital Alarm, a visual and audible deterrent aimed at scaring away both human and animal threats. Its 130dB alarm continues sounding for about 60 minutes, while the strobe flashes for up to four hours.
A one-hour charge fully powers the system, and that stored energy lasts between three and six months, depending on weather conditions. Enjoy passive, non-lethal protection that’s safe around kids, pets, and livestock. Manufactured in the United States from 6061 aluminum, it’s weather-resistant and expandable, accepting flares, 12GA blanks, and — when paired with an adapter — 209 primers.
A purpose-driven multi-tool designed to handle all essential outdoors tasks, with some critical thinking covered for you, Leatherman’s Signal comes in a wide range of colors, from standard earth tones to more playful options like guava or aqua. Slim and efficient, it holds exactly what’s needed in an outdoorsman’s tool, leaving little room for extras. Aptly named “Signal,” it includes a detachable ferro rod and scraper to start a fire. Signal conceals a frame-lock wood saw and a semi-serrated knife blade on opposite sides for quick access.
Once opened, needle-nose and regular pliers with replaceable cutters become the standout features. A hammer pommel integrates a 1/4- and 3/16-inch box wrench, a 1/4-inch bit driver, and a carabiner/bottle opener. Inside, find a lockable awl with thread loop, a bit driver, and a can opener. A nylon belt holster arrives in the box, and a pocket clip adds a finishing touch that enhances both function and style.
The Spectrum UV is a full-size, duty-grade flashlight machined from 6061-T6 aerospace aluminum. Body dimensions accommodate gloved hands comfortably during extended use. Inside, dual-fuel technology provides a choice between rechargeable 18650, or single-use CR123A batteries. A multi-function tail cap cycles through momentary-on, lock, and constant-on modes with a simple rotation. A small selector button on the head allows easy navigation through multiple color settings, plus a high-lumen strobe mode.
Color modes include red for reducing visual signature and preserving night vision, blue for tracking in snow and fog while highlighting blood, and UV for detecting biometric signatures and hidden security emblems in documents. ASP includes a USB/USB-C retractable charger and a rechargeable 18650 battery to complete the package.
Simplicity meets reliability in this three-season foam mat, crafted in Finland from cross-linked closed-cell plastic. Air pockets in the base shield users from cold and moisture, and dimensions of 20.5 by 73 inches (plus a mere 0.4-inch thick) provide a comfortable surface without hogging all the pack space. Folding up to just 20.5 by 6.5 by 5.5 inches and weighing only 9.5 ounces, it’s a breeze to carry in the mountains without worrying about damage.
Simple elastic loops hold it in place, or latch onto a backpack for easy transport. Foam mats take up more room than inflatable models but are dependable and hassle-free. Inflatable pads have a smaller packed size and offer higher comfort, but they can be punctured. Anyone looking to attach a sleeping pad outside the pack — while keeping things worry-free and easy to handle — may find this foam mat a great choice.
RECOIL OFFGRID’s Top Picks
Now that temperatures have dropped across much of the United States, we’ve been preparing to stay warm in the field. Throughout our testing, everything performed well, but two pieces of gear really stood out. We don’t mind cold weather on its own, but once toes start going numb, all the fun goes out the window.
First up are the 5.11 A.T.A.C. Boots. We were surprised by how comfortable they felt right away, keeping our toes warm without any break-in period. Part of that success came from picking the right socks to help retain heat. Despite their rugged appearance, these boots have an athletic feel and handle cold ground with a thick, lightweight sole. The high-top style also provided solid ankle support when stepping over fallen branches and tackling hilly terrain.
Our second standout item is the Hand Warmer from Defense Mechanisms. It’s tough to use a knife, tie knots, or even work a zipper when fingers go numb. This warmer has front and rear zipper pockets that fit chemical hand warmers, which kept our hands functional and safe in low temperatures.
Though these two items might seem like basic choices, they were the foundation that helped us stay comfortable long enough to enjoy the rest of our gear. Each time you leave the trail for the backcountry, remember that good planning and smart decision-making are your most valuable preparations. With those in place, you’ll be ready for whatever winter throws your way.
What Gear Keeps You Warm?
Got your own proven way to fight the freeze? We’d love to hear it. Maybe there’s a trusty piece of equipment you swear by that didn’t show up here, or you’ve put this month’s gear through its paces and have stories to tell. Tag us in your winter posts or email offgrid@recoilweb.com. We’ll keep your best ideas on ice, and, who knows, you might see your contribution featured down the road.
Lock picking is a skill that elicits a lot of different feelings in people when it’s brought up. Some think of crafty criminals breaking into homes, while others think of spies employing discreet tools to ply their trade. While both these situations can be true, the reality of lock picking is that it’s a skill that prepared-minded people value for both emergency and everyday situations. It’s a common misconception that lock-pick sets and bypass tools are illegal. However, most states and municipalities have no restrictions on carrying lock picks beyond the intent to use them in a crime. In fact, most basic lock-picking sets are inexpensive and accessible to everyone.
Before we get into how to pick a lock, let’s look at some of the practical reasons why we would need to pick a lock.
In an emergency, locked gates may inhibit our ability to bypass blocked or damaged roads. This decoder bypass tool made short work of the gate’s combination lock.
Practical Everyday Lock Picking
One of the most straightforward reasons to learn lock picking is being stuck in one of the most common and frustrating situations people face: getting locked out of the house. This is exactly why I got started. After locking myself out and having to climb all over my house to try and find an open window, I was eventually able to kick in a small basement window and squeeze myself through it. I could’ve spent a few hundred dollars and had a locksmith come out, but for the price of a few scrapes and bruises, I learned some valuable lessons. First, my home security needed improvement because of those basement windows. Second, if I had lock-picking skills and a lock-pick set, I could’ve easily avoided any discomfort in this circumstance.
Since then, I’ve been in a few situations that being able to pick locks proved valuable. I’ve found myself returning later than expected during a day hike to find the parking lot gate locked. Being able to quickly bypass the pad lock and relock the gate allowed me to egress from the parking lot and saved the park ranger a trip. This is a more common occurrence than people think, as I have spoken with several avid outdoors people who have been in a similar situation.
Beyond that there have been quite a few pad locks that have had lost keys and dial locks that we have long since lost the combinations to that needed to be opened. With all these examples, it’s clear to see knowing how to pick a lock can aid us on a day-to-day basis, but what benefits does this serve in an emergency?
When SHTF, valuable resources like the propane tanks may be locked behind gates and cages. Having the ability to pick or bypass the lock can quickly and quietly give you access to what you need to survive.
Lock Picking in an Emergency
In emergencies, especially in urban environments, the ability to pick a lock can help us access supplies, obtain shelter, or egress an otherwise closed-off area. A news story that comes to mind occurred in upstate New York. There was a major winter storm that left numerous people stranded in their vehicles. The quick thinking of one man saved several lives when he opted to break into a local school and gather people from assorted vehicles to take shelter indoors.
While this action was technically breaking and entering, no charges were filed because of the nature of the emergency. In this case, a window was broken, resulting in repair expenses. If anyone in the group was proficient at lock picking and had a lock-pick set with them, the people would have been able to access lifesaving shelter without the need to destroy any property.
Locked out? Lock picking provides a quick and inexpensive way to get back in.
How to Pick a Lock
When we look at the question “how to pick a lock,” there isn’t really a single, straightforward answer. This is mainly due to the large number of different lock-pick sets and tools available and all the different types of locks that exist. You can take any lock, from the simplistic Master Lock all the way to cylinder key locks and even electronic locking systems, and there will be numerous tools out there to bypass each of them.
“Lock Sport” is a term that you may come across while researching lock picking. This refers to lock picking as a hobby and, in some cases, a competitive sport. As with many skills and tools that move into the realm of hobbyists, there will be many opinions out there as to what tools are great and what tools are not so great. For the novice or those who are just interested in learning how to pick locks for emergency preparedness, it’s best to avoid the hype of the latest and greatest and stick with some of the tried-and-true classics.
Ultimately, learning how to pick or bypass locks comes down to having the proper tools and a lot of practice. Let’s look at some of the basic tools used to bypass common locks and how they function.
Anatomy of a Lock and How Lock Picks Work
The inside of most standard locks looks remarkably similar. Inside of a rotating cylinder, there are several pins attached to springs that must be pushed up to certain levels to release the lock. The grooves in our keys are designed to precisely do this.
When we’re picking a lock, instead of using a key we’re using small tools to manually push the pins into place. There are several distinct types of picks out there; some are designed to push single pins, while others are designed to move multiple pins at once.
Beginner Lock-Pick Sets and Tools
Beginner lock-pick sets typically include three different types of picks and at least one torsion wrench. The torsion wrench is a simple tool that allows the lock to be turned into the open position once the lock picks have done their job. For most people, mastering a beginner set will give them the skills and tools they need to open most common locks that use keys including padlocks and door locks.
For beginners, the rake-style pick is one of the most commonly used tools. It features a series of small bumps that slide across the lock’s pins to push them into position. Once the pins are aligned, a torsion wrench can be used to rotate the lock and open it.
Another tool that beginners should learn to use is the single hook pick. Although this pick moves only one pin at a time and is much slower than rake picking, it helps novices develop a better understanding of a lock’s structure and mechanics. Just like the rake pick, a torsion wrench will be used to turn the lock to an open position.
The last type of lock pick that’s usually found in beginner pick sets is the comb pick. The name itself is a bit of a misnomer, as it’s not a pick at all but a bypass tool. The comb pick functions by mimicking a key, pushing all the pins up simultaneously. While it works quickly, comb picks are generally effective only on low-quality padlocks and are unlikely to open high-quality locks, such as those used on house doors.
Common Bypass Tools
We discussed the comb pick being a bypass tool, but what exactly is a bypass tool and how does it differ from a lock pick? To put it simply, a lock pick allows the user to manually engage individual pins while a bypass tool is designed to completely go around the security measures built into locks. Bypass tools aren’t as versatile as lock picks; each one is designed for certain types of locks. While they lack the versatility of traditional lock picks, with a little practice they can typically defeat their intended lock in seconds.
Combs
These are designed to defeat cylinder locks commonly found in Master brand and other similar-styled locks. There are different comb lengths that work for unique styles of locks. Combs work by inserting the comb into the lock face, which will push all the pins up to disengage the lock.
Quick Sticks
This simple bypass tool is designed to bypass low-quality padlocks by completely bypassing the pins and directly disengaging the lock. Simply insert into the lock face and push it up to disengage the lock clasp.
Jiggler
This bypass tool is designed to defeat wafer locks. Wafer locks are named after the flat wafers used internally instead of pins. These types of locks can be found on some mailboxes, filing cabinets, desk drawers, older car locks, and RVs. Wafer locks present a unique challenge, as the internal parts can be easily damaged if the wrong key is used or in aggressive picking, making it unable to disengage without physically removing the lock. To use a jiggler bypass tool, simply insert it into the lock face and gently move it around until the lock can be disengaged. It’s important to note that car locks require specific types of jigglers that are becoming increasingly ineffective due to electronic lock technology.
Decoder Shims
These bypass tools are designed to defeat locks without keys such as luggage locks and combination padlocks. Like quick sticks, the decoder shim is pushed up through the side of the number dial to quickly disengage the locking clasp. Practice Locks
While not an actual lock-picking tool, practice locks are essential to helping the novice develop their skill set. Practice locks offer a cut-away window to allow the user to see what’s going on inside the lock while they are practicing picking. These provide a deep sense of how a lock works and how each of the tools we are using impacts the internal components of the lock.
A set of lock picks and the skill to use them are a great addition to a functional EDC setup (items pictured Tuff Possum Entry, ZT0308CF, ASP Defender Sport, Fenix PD 25R).
Practice, Practice, Practice!
By reading the descriptions of how each of these tools works, it sounds easy to do. I wouldn’t classify any basic lock-picking activity as difficult, but it does require finesse and dexterity that’s only developed through practice. Starting with practice locks and moving to standard locks is a fantastic way to get a feel for both your tools and a feel for distinct types of locks and brands of locks. I emphasized finesse for a good reason — lock picks may be tools, but they are delicate precision instruments. Applying too much force even to high-end hardened steel and titanium lock picks will result in bending and snapping. In the beginning of your lock-picking journey, slow and steady wins the race.
The Tuff Possum Bogota Set fits discreetly in the Wazoo Cache Cap.
Nick’s Personal Lock-Pick Sets and Bypass Tools
The sheer number of different lock-pick sets and bypass tools on the market can be overwhelming for those new to the art of lock picking. Here are some of the tools that I use and rely on to get the job done.
This kit has all the picks and bypass tools to tackle the most common locks.
Main Kit: Tuff Possum Entry Kit
Tuff Possum’s Entry Kit is a compact kit that includes all the basics you need to get most lock-picking jobs done. The Entry Kit has three different double-sided torsion wrenches, allowing you to apply six different levels of tension. The kit also includes five different picks, three rakes, a hook, and a half diamond. All five picks are held together by a rivet so nothing gets lost, and you can easily switch tools if needed. There’s also a bypass tool set held together by a rivet that includes three combs, two jigglers, and a quick stick. There are also two stand-alone EZ Decoders. This setup gives you everything a beginner user needs to get started and effectively pick locks. For everyday carry, I keep it all in the optional Compact Lock Pick Case, which tucks discreetly into any pants pocket and some coin pockets.
The Entry Kit also includes a few more advanced tools, which includes a set of warded lock picks used specifically for warded locks and an EZ Card that can easily bypass many locked latch doors such as gates and home interior doors.
This has been my go-to set for a while due to the compact size, versatility, and quality steel construction of the tools. The compact size of these tools can make them challenging for beginners to practice with, but Tuff Possum offers an affordable beginner kit featuring full-sized tools. The pick profiles and tension wrenches are identical to those in the entry set, ensuring a smooth transition as users progress.
Lock picks are an ideal addition to your urban SERE kit (Tuff Possum Bogota Set, Superesse EDC SERE Kit, Silcock Key for accessing water in cities).
Discreet Carry Option: Bogota Set with Covert Key Slip
Although the Entry kit is very compact, I also like to account for the times where I may not have those items in my pocket, or in the event I become separated from my primary lock-picking set.
This simple set has a Bogota Quad Rake and a Single Hook Pick (again from Tuff Possum) with the backsides of each acting as a tension wrench. While not as versatile as a full set, the ability to clip it to my pants button with the Covert Key Slip or stash it in my Wazoo Cache Cap as part of my compact SERE kit ensures I always have backup lock picks on hand.
The Grim Workshop “Sparrow Bushcraft” Signature Survival Card is an ideal compact addition to your wallet of Wilderness Kit.
When out in the wilderness, there may not be a need for a full-sized lock-picking kit, but as we discussed earlier there are moments when we may need to defeat a lock. Having some tools available rounds out my wilderness survival kit.
Grim Workshop is renowned for creating ultra-compact survival tools, including dog tags, Altoid tin kits, and their widely popular survival cards. Among their offerings in the realm of lock picking and escape and evasion, one card stands out for blending high-quality lock picks with essential wilderness tools: the Sparrow Bushcraft Signature Survival Card.
Created by Bill Roque, also known as Sparrow Bushcraft, this card reflects his dual passions for lock picking and outdoor adventure. It features several effective pick styles, a four-pin comb bypass tool, multi-step tension wrenches, and two serrated saws that also function as tweezers. Measuring roughly the size of a credit card, it fits seamlessly into a wallet, sitting discreetly alongside a Wazoo Fire Card to cover key outdoor survival needs.
These tools are crafted from high-quality stainless steel, built for durability, and designed for repeated use. They can easily be reattached to their original spots on the card thanks to a tacky backing material.
Final Thoughts
This covers the fundamentals of lock picking and using bypass tools. With these tools and a bit of practice, you’ll soon be able to tackle most common locks, taking a big step toward becoming more self-reliant. Lock picking has many practical day-to-day applications and will serve you well in many scenarios.
But the basics are only the beginning. The art of lock picking offers endless opportunities to explore, from specialty tools and advanced techniques for complex locks to electronic bypass devices for more modern systems. There’s always more to learn and master.
For those seeking something beyond a typical getaway, Offgrid Adventures are handpicked wilderness escapes offer more than just scenic views — they challenge your grit, test your limits, and immerse you in landscapes where survival and adventure go hand in hand. Prepping for a backcountry trek or simply looking for a place to unplug over the weekend is not always as easy as it seems. However, these destinations offer the right blend of raw beauty and adventure that will have you feeling recharged and reconnected with nature.
Offgrid Adventure: Mount Umunhum – San Jose, CA
Adventure Appeal
Where rugged wilderness meets Cold War history. Climb to one of the highest peaks in the Bay Area, where the journey is just as thrilling as the view. Located in the Sierra Azul Open Space Preserve, Mount Umunhum — a Native American name that describes the sound a hummingbird makes — offers adventurers a unique mix of challenging terrain, breathtaking vistas, and fascinating Cold War history.
At 3,486 feet, the summit provides sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean, the Santa Cruz Mountains, and the sprawling San Francisco Bay Area. It’s a day hike, but don’t let the proximity to civilization fool you — this trail will test your endurance, climbing 3.7 miles with over 1,100 feet of elevation gain. Along the way, you’ll trek through dense forests, cross rocky terrain, and be rewarded with a view that feels miles away from the hustle of city life.
This five-story Cold War relic can be seen from almost everywhere in the Bay Area, but few people make the ascent to get up close to it.
Survival Readiness
While Mount Umunhum is a relatively accessible day trip, it comes with its own set of challenges. The steep climb, exposure to the elements (especially the sun on cloudless days), and the lack of water sources along the trail mean hikers need to come prepared. Pack plenty of water, sun protection, and a map — cell service can be spotty, and some rocky, narrow sections require careful footing. The isolation, though brief, offers a chance to test your readiness without straying too far from safety.
A well-established network of trails provide a great opportunity to connect with nature.
Getting There
Mount Umunhum is located about 30 minutes south of San Jose, California, making it an ideal adventure for Bay Area residents. Head into the Sierra Azul Open Space Preserve via Hicks Road, where you’ll find a parking area with access to the trailhead. The trail is open year-round, but it’s best tackled in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat, especially in summer.
Topo map of Mt. Umunhum (Source: CalTopo)
Local Perks
After your climb, explore the area’s rich history. Mount Umunhum was once the site of a Cold War radar station, and remnants of that era still stand at the summit, including the iconic radar tower. For those interested in expanding their adventure, nearby Almaden Quicksilver County Park offers additional hiking opportunities, or head to downtown San Jose for a taste of local cuisine and craft breweries. Mount Umunhum offers a satisfying mix of isolation and accessibility.
The trail is rugged enough to feel adventurous, but with easy road access, ample parking, and historical plaques along the way, it doesn’t push the limits of true off-grid living. You won’t find any services at the summit itself, but cell reception is decent, and the trail is well-marked. If you’re looking for a quick escape without venturing into the unknown, this is the perfect spot for a moderate-level off-grid experience.
Offgrid Adventure: Rockhouse Hill Sanctuary – Oxford, CT
Adventure Appeal
Rockhouse Hill offers a range of hiking experiences, starting at a gravel parking lot with an information kiosk providing maps and details about the area’s history and wildlife. A flat, gravel path leads into the forest, but the terrain quickly shifts to rocky trails shaped by glacial deposits, with plenty of ascents and descents that keep things engaging. For an easy stroll, a path to the riverbank winds through a pine-needle-covered forest, though the return uphill can be steep.
The trails pass a lively reservoir filled with frogs and waterfowl and remnants of earlier settlements, like ornamental plants and invasive wineberry. Further along, the terrain becomes more rugged, culminating in a cliffside view of the Housatonic River Valley. Hikers can choose easier routes with moderate climbs and stream crossings or tackle the “On the Rocks” trail, a steep, boulder-strewn challenge. Excellent trail markers and loops make navigation simple, ensuring an adventurous and rewarding hike.
Numerous water sources attract a wide variety of wildlife to the area.
Survival Readiness
The Sanctuary is a self-guided experience with no amenities — no restrooms, water stations, or staff — so come prepared with water and first aid essentials. While it feels remote, the preserve is close to a main road, with restaurants and grocery stores about 15 minutes away, and it generally has good cell service unless you venture onto connecting trails. Hiking boots or trail runners are essential for navigating slippery rocks, which stay wet longer under the tree cover, and waterproof footwear can help during rainy periods when streams may overflow. Though near homes and a high school, emergency response may be delayed, so plan accordingly. The cliffside area gets full sun and wind, making weather-appropriate clothing a must. Oxford’s wooded setting is home to wildlife, including black bears, coyotes, rattlesnakes, spiders, and ticks — bear spray, tick repellent, and staying on marked trails are your best defenses.
Well-groomed trails are perfect for bikers, hikers, and cross country skiers after the snow starts to fly.
Getting There
Rockhouse Hill Sanctuary is about a 20-minute drive off Exit 16 on Interstate 64. It is about 40 minutes north from Danbury and an hour south from Hartford. The parking area of the sanctuary is off Route 188, just past the entrance for Oxford High School. The parking lot has room for about 8 to 10 cars and fills up fast on weekends and holidays, but during the week it is not uncommon to be the only person in there. Rockhouse Hill is open to the public all year long.
Adventure and History. Traces of the regions rich history can be found throughout Rockhouse Hill Sanctuary.
Local Perks
Hiking opportunities are abundant in the area with two major forests, three state parks, and several other preserves in the immediate area. If you are looking for a bite to eat after your hike Oxford has several restaurants on Route 67 including the historic Oxford House Tavern, as well as several more modern eateries in Quarry Walk Center. Rockhouse Hill Sanctuary is a hidden gem in Western Connecticut’s Naugatuck River Valley, offering a mix of gravel paths and rocky trails that showcase New England’s rugged charm.
Maintained by the town of Oxford with help from the Oxford High School Youth Conservation Corps and local Boy Scouts, the sanctuary features 15 miles of trails with options for all skill levels. Shorter, less challenging trails near the entrance still provide enough hills to get your blood pumping, while the deeper trails offer rock scrambles, varied terrain, and stunning views. Ambitious hikers can extend their adventure by connecting to adjacent state forest trails, exploring miles of woodland, rivers, and waterfalls
Topo map of Rockhouse Hill Sanctuary (Source: CalTopo)
The world keeps showing us how swiftly comfort can give way to crisis. Reports of violent criminals slipping through lax borders and settling into everyday neighborhoods are no longer distant headlines. Attacks on young women on once-secure streets and the spread of gangs — like the Venezuelan Tren de Aragua — staking out apartment complexes remind us that danger can evolve faster than we’d prefer. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Yet the truth is that there are ways to prepare, mentally and physically, for scenarios that once seemed exclusive to war zones or distant trouble spots. The principles of SERE — Survive, Evade, Resist, Escape — no longer belong solely to those in specialized fields. They can enrich the lives of anyone determined not to give predators the upper hand.
Within these pages, you’ll find voices that have forged their methods under exacting conditions. Air Force SERE instructors Michael Caughran and Peter Magnin bring insights to strengthen your judgment long before a crisis tests it. Their hard-earned perspectives blend seamlessly with other approaches sprinkled throughout this issue. You’ll encounter strategies that address challenges lurking behind school doors, guidance on looking after your own body if trained help isn’t coming, and ways to keep your personal security toolkit versatile, ranging from entry methods that challenge old assumptions of “locked” spaces, to awareness exercises that sharpen focus and reduce complacency.
To add some levity to these serious topics, we’re introducing Offgrid Adventures, a new column aimed at inspiring you to seek out landscapes and experiences that remind you the world holds more than gloomy headlines suggest. We’ve also refreshed our Gear Up section, not to sell you fancy trinkets, but to offer a tangible bridge from theory to practice. These additions mirror our core belief that preparation is a combination of both mindset and action. By gaining familiarity with the right skills, exploring environments that challenge your everyday assumptions, and understanding the tools that best fit your circumstances, you build something durable within yourself.
This issue encourages a different kind of vigilance — one grounded in knowledge and flexibility rather than fear. The lessons here are meant to strengthen your footing, wherever you might stand. As you turn the pages, consider how these approaches, insights, and explorations might shape your habits, refine your outlook, or give you the confidence to navigate this shifting world with steady resolve.
This article about cold weather fitness originally appeared in Issue 6 of our magazine.
Warning! The exercises and content expressed in this column are for illustrative purposes only. Consult a licensed fitness trainer or medical professional before trying any physical activity or nutritional plan.
Illustrations by Chris Bywater
Who enjoys spending time frolicking in frigid temperatures? Exactly. As a result, staying warm and cozy indoors often comes at the expense of physical activity. Humans were never meant to hibernate, contrary to what most people do after Thanksgiving dinner or what teenagers think when they’re forced out of bed on a Saturday morning. We don’t always have the luxury of a heated building with a roof over our heads, so our ability to cope with the environment is critically important to our ability to not only survive, but thrive in a cold weather scenario.
Winter can present many challenging situations and force you into an uncomfortable, possibly even dangerous environment for an indeterminate amount of time. Icy road conditions often lead to increased traffic, car accidents, and vehicle breakdowns. Getting stranded can mean being stuck on the side of the road waiting for a tow truck or a lengthy trek through knee-high snow.
Maintaining or improving your cold weather fitness level is essential in freezing conditions, as your chances of escaping a potential hazard drops as the mercury falls. Don’t let your fitness level be the weak link in your chain of preparedness.
Cold Weather Fitness: Frosty Fashion
When it comes to cold-weather apparel, the primary goal is to keep your core (torso) warm. Core warmth must always be maintained. When core temperature drops, blood vessels constrict in the extremities to reduce blood flow and conserve heat. Reduced blood to the hands and feet leads to diminished motor control and other physiological side effects. It’s obvious, then, that your clothing will make or break your survival.
For the base layer, prioritize tighter-fitting moisture-wicking fabric, as you still might sweat regardless of the temperature. The second layer should be a thermal layer designed to trap heat well. These are made in varying thicknesses and fabrics, so look to match the fabric to the temperature. The colder it is, the thicker the fabric should be to trap more heat. Lastly, the outermost layer should be waterproof and windproof. Protection from the elements is the top priority. This layer will also act to prevent heat from escaping through the fabric. Make sure to choose colors that fit the activity, as brighter colors will allow you to be found in snow more easily.
The face and extremities are at the highest risk for developing cold injuries due to skin exposure and blood flow alterations. The less skin exposed, the better. Therefore, gloves are mandatory. They maintain manual function and movement, as well as provide a layer of paw protection — because who knows what you’ll have to do when you’re suddenly caught in an emergency. The head can be a significant source of heat loss in cold weather. It’s best to wear a facemask (similar to a balaclava) that covers everything from your neck to the top of your head. The breathing of cold and dry air is a major issue with physical activity in the cold, so the mask will allow air to be warmed and humidified before inhaling. Heat loss and, potentially, dehydration can occur if your breathing rate gets high enough.
Once you’ve selected your winter clothes, don’t be alarmed if you feel just a little chilly for the first five to 10 minutes of activity. If you’re feeling warm immediately, the heat generated through exercise will end up causing you to overheat, possibly leading to heat stress — believe it or not.
(Photo by Spc. Liliana S. Magers, U.S. Army Alaska Public Affairs.)
Cold Weather Fitness: Warming Up
A properly designed warm-up is the critical starting point to any workout or physical endeavor. While you may be able to get by without one, you’re increasing the likelihood of injury and, at the very least, reducing your output during that activity.
A warm-up should address key things like increasing bodily tissue temperature, improving joint mobility and flexibility, priming your nervous system, and improving posture and alignment. Within this warm-up, it’s best to address the more mobile joints of the body, such as the hips, ankles, and thoracic spine.
For ankles, the wall ankle mobilization with hip flexor stretch is very beneficial. The “Spiderman” works well to gain mobility in the groin and stretches the back hip as well. The thoracic spine features both extending and rotating requirements, so something like a tall kneeling thoracic spine rotation with tip works very well. You can also put them together into a Spiderman with a rotation, addressing all three areas in one movement.
Cold Weather Fitness Activity: Wall Ankle Mobilization with Hip Flexor Stretch
Targets: Ankles, hip flexors
Repetitions: 8 per side
Start with one knee down and the other foot planted in front of you. Grab the ankle of the back foot and place your other hand on the wall. Slowly rock forward, attempting to get your knee to the wall while keeping your heel down. Complete eight times per side.
Cold Weather Fitness Activity: The Spiderman
Targets: Groin, hips, hamstrings
Repetitions: 6 per side
Take an exaggerated step forward and place your hands on the floor in line with the instep of your front foot. Complete six times per side.
Cold Weather Fitness Activity: The Spiderman with Rotation
Take an exaggerated step forward with your left foot and place your hands on the floor in line with the instep of your left foot. Now turn your upper body and point your right fingers toward the ceiling. Complete six times then do the same on your left side.
Cold Weather Fitness Activity: Tall Kneeling Thoracic Spine Rotation with Tip
Targets: Back
Repetitions: 3 per side
Start in a kneeling position with both knees down. While staying tall, rotate from your upper back with your hands behind your head. Your hips should remain forward. Once you turn as far as is comfortable, tip your torso on the same side as the direction you’re turning. Repeat, turning a little further each time. Complete three times on each side.
Cold Weather Injuries
The lack of proper apparel, gear, and fitness can lead to numerous injuries in frigid weather. Here’s a brief look at some of the common ailments.
Cold and Wet Injuries
Chilblain Looks: Lesions on the top side of the hands and feet. Redness and swelling. More extreme cases can progress to blisters and ulcers. May take months or years for symptoms to subside Feels: Itching and soreness Causes: Damage to the blood vessels located near the exterior layers of the skin. Result is local fluid accumulation (edema) and inflammation.
Pernio Looks: Larger lesions on the tops of the hands and feet. Lesions and skin may begin to appear darker in color. Feels: Itching and pain Causes: Continuation of chilblain. Further ulceration and the start of tissue death.
Trenchfoot Looks: Swelling, skin discoloration, ulcers present Feels: Numbness and pain Causes: Severe damage to the nerves and local blood vessels
Cold and Dry Injuries
Frostnip Looks: Reduced skin coloration or white appearance on the affected areas Feels: Tenderness, numbness, or burning Causes: Initial freezing of the skin. Nerves and capillaries may be damaged. Increases chance of further frostnip and frostbite, due to decreased sensation of cold and decreased blood supply.
Frostbite Looks: Redness or possibly black skin on the affected areas Feels: Numbness and tenderness. With rewarming, can cause feelings of intense pain, inflammation, and possible gangrene. (Medical rewarming is highly advised rather than in the field). Causes: Continued cooling, freezing, and damaging of cells
Cold weather requires a few minor exercise modifications that should be addressed to further the effectiveness of a warm-up. Since the topic here is staying active and preparing for cold weather scenarios, it’s safe to assume the ambient temperature will be pretty frosty. In light of that, increasing tissue temperature is weighted a little more heavily.
Passive, pre-warm-up strategies can be used prior to exercise to further your preparation for cold weather exposure. The most obvious way is to spend five to 10 minutes in a warmer environment wearing warm clothes to raise your body temperature and trap heat in your clothing. You can also consume a warmer beverage, such as tea or coffee. Not only does the heat of the drink help to elevate body temperature, the caffeine can also improve performance.
Look at adding more layers or warmer fabrics during your warm-up and activity. What fabrics and how many layers will depend on how cold it is. The goal in a warm-up should be achieving a light sweat. However, in the cold, sweating isn’t ideal as it’s an awfully efficient cooling mechanism. It’s best to shoot for a general feeling of increased warmth, but do your best not to break out into an all-out sweat.
Be mindful of hydration as well. Water can still be lost through sweating and even breathing. Exercise increases breathing rate to meet the demand of the activity, and with breathing, water vapor is lost, possibly leading to dehydration over time.
Whether it’s something planned or not, physical activity in the cold can present several challenges. Your ability to adequately sense cold and respond accordingly can be affected by several factors, including exercise-induced fatigue, depleted energy stores, and sleep deprivation. So, make sure you’re adequately rested and fed, ideally, before venturing outdoors for activity. Follow these tips, and you’ll be ready for whatever Old Man Winter has in store this year.
Why We Shiver
The involuntary shaking that comes in cold weather is the contraction of skeletal muscle, which helps convert energy to heat while minimizing mechanical movement.
This is primarily driven by skin temperature
The longer you’re exposed to a cold environment, the more muscle mass will be recruited
Fueled primarily by carbohydrates
Temperature timeline:
Shivering typically begins at a core temperature of 96.8 degrees F (36 degrees C)
Reaches peak shivering at a core temperature of 95 degrees F (35 degrees C)
Stops at a core temperature of 87.8 degrees F (31 degrees C)
Source: Advanced Environmental Exercise Physiology by Stephen Cheung
About the Author
Ryne Gioviano, M.S.Ed., NSCA-CPT is the owner of Achieve Personal Training & Lifestyle Design. He holds a master’s degree in exercise physiology and is a certified personal trainer through the National Strength and Conditioning Association. For more information, visit www.achieve-personaltraining.com. You can find Ryne on Twitter and Instagram at @RGioviano.
When exploring the great outdoors or navigating an urban emergency having reliable off grid lighting options is vital to our survival. In the wilderness we lack the ambient lighting that is found in urban and suburban areas and those unfamiliar with the true darkness of the wild underestimate how dark it gets. During emergencies such as storms, grid failures, and even civil unrest power can be disrupted and leave us with little light to navigate outdoors at night or inside buildings.
The ASP Spectrum UV and Princeton Tec Helix LI as part of an outdoor gear kit including the Knives by Nuge Bruin, Tuff Possum Gear Med Pouch, Dark Energy Power Bank, and PNWBUSHCRAFT Ground Cloth
While many of us carry flashlights daily, extended wilderness adventures and urban emergencies require more powerful and robust lighting systems. These can include powerful handheld flashlights to see for longer distances, head lamps when you need to keep your hands free, and lanterns for producing long term light in an area.
Beyond considering the type of power of the light we need; we must also factor in charging methods and durability. In addition, we should consider the environmental and weather resistance that is relevant for the areas we find ourselves in.
Let’s dive into the categories and look at some of the adventure lighting options I utilize on a regular basis.
Off Grid Lighting: Handheld Flashlights
When it comes to off grid lighting systems, a handheld flashlight is the first thing that comes to mind. This tried-and-true lighting system has been around since 1899, but recent technological advances have resulted in high powered lighting options in compact form factors.
There is a near infinite amount of variety when it comes to handheld flashlights, with a different brightness, light color, battery, and form factor options available. There are handheld flashlights designed for specific uses and industries as well. With this variety it is common to confuse key features for intended tasks and environments. Wilderness use lights will not vary too much from emergency use lights. The features most important will be brightness, battery life, and resistance to the elements, however some of the flashlights listed below will have added useful features.
ASP Spectrum UV
Armament Systems and Procedures, or ASP for short, is known for producing high quality equipment for law enforcement personnel. The ASP Spectrum UV is no exception to this rule but is packed with a ton of features that make it an excellent choice for outdoor adventures and emergency situations. The feature rich The Spectrum UV offers momentary or fixed on/off switches, multiple brightness options, strobe, and 4 different color lighting modes including standard white, red, blue, and UV. While white is most used the other lighting modes should not be underestimated.
Red light is ideal for preserving your body’s natural night vision. While white light will require our eyes to readjust to the darkness red light does not affect our eyes with the same intensity allowing us to quickly readjust to the level of darkness in the area.
Blue light can cut through dense fog and be used to illuminate blood or other bodily fluids which can be helpful when tracking.
UV Mode finding animal urine traces in the snow
UV light can help us see things that are hard to see with the naked eye. In urban environments this is useful for determining the validity of currency and ID’s. In the wilderness many organisms are UV reactive which will allow us to see a multitude of plants, fugus, and even things like scorpions. UV light will also quickly chare any glow in the dark materials that are commonly used on stickers, gear markers, and patches.
The Spectrum is made from high grade aluminum and is weather resistant. It has a maximum output of 700 lumens and a beam distance of 210 meters. The max run time is 5 hours and 30 minutes, and it will run on the included rechargeable lithium-ion battery or 2 CR123 batteries. The Spectrum is equipped with a USB-C port making it easy to charge and compatible with most modern charging wires.
The Spectrum UV has an included pocket clip for easy attachment and an optional holster is offered for belt or plate carrier mounting allowing the light to be used hands free.
Pros
4 different color light modes
Multiple battery options
Optional mount for hands free use
USB-C charging
Water and weather Resistant
Includes removeable pocket clip
Cons
Multiple light modes can be more complicated to operate
On the higher end of the price range
Fenix PD45R
The PD45R is one of Fenix’s newest offerings with a maximum output of a whopping 2800 lumens and a max run time of 65 Hours on the lowest mode. This model offers a digital screen telling you the exact percentage left on your battery and the proprietary lithium-ion battery is charged via a USB-C port on the body of the flashlight.
Another notable and useful feature is the ability adjust the beam from spotlight to floodlight with an easy-to-use wheel dial that sits around the power button. This allows the user to adjust the beam for distance viewing with a maximum distance of 480 meters or produce a large amount of light in a confined area.
The LD45R produces white light only and has 5 different intensity settings as well as a strobe and SOS mode. It is important to note that the maximum setting of 2800 lumens will produce a lot of heat and should only be used in short bursts when needed. All other lighting modes can be used over the long term without worry.
The high-grade aluminum body is durable and sealed allowing it to withstand water submersion of up to 2 meters. The light itself does not have a clip making it better for storing in a bag or pack but can be placed in a deep pocket if needed.
Pros
High waterproof rating and submersible for short periods
Very bright light production in a compact package
LED screen displays exact battery percentage
Has both spotlight and floodlight modes
Long beam distance
USB-C recharging
Cons
No pocket clip
Only white light
Excessive heat production on maximum
Nite Ize Inova T8R
The Nite Ize T8R is a rugged outdoor flashlight that features both red and white light modes that is easily toggled by using a rotating cap near the lens that can be easily switched between the two while the light is in use.
The body of the T8R is made from high grade aluminum and is rated for both weather resistance and drop resistance. The light itself is powered by an included lithium-ion battery and can also be run on two CR123 batteries. The battery can be charged via a covered micro-USB port under the tail cap. The T8R body includes a pocket clip for easy attachment to your pocket or outer area of your bag.
The T8R produces a maximum of 762 lumens in high mode and has a 30-hour run time in low mode. Both the red and white options offer two brightness levels with strobe and SOS are available in white mode. The beam distance in high white mode is 267 meters and red comes in lower at 189 meters.
While the T8R lacks many of the advanced features found on the previous two lights, it makes up for it in simplicity and ease of use while providing the most used features.
Pros
White and red light modes
Simple operation
multiple battery options
water and weather resistant
Cons
Dated Micro-USB recharging
Limited brightness options
Off Grid Lighting: Head Lamps
Electric Head Lamps originated in the early 1900’s and were popular among miners who needed to keep their hands free when working. While these early headlamps were only capable of producing 2 to 5 lumens of light, they were designed to last an entire 12-hour work shift.
As technology advanced headlamps became popular with outdoor enthusiasts, especially cavers and climbers, as they needed both hands to climb. The first sport headlamps were powered by AA or AAA batteries, but many modern offerings have lithium-ion rechargeable batteries offering more light production and battery life.
Head lamps typically won’t offer the level of brightness or beam distance found in handheld flashlights, but they do allow us to operate hands free, allowing us to use both our hands when working.
A good off grid lighting head lamp will offer good battery life and multiple light level modes allowing it to fit into multiple usage scenarios. Like the handheld flashlight we should also be looking for headlamps that are durable and weather resistant.
Princeton Tec Apex LI
Princeton Tec is known for making reliable tactical, adventure, and industrial lighting. The Helix LI is at the top of their adventure-oriented head lamp line up. This impressive head lamp features a total of 5 white LED’s, 4 flood lights and a single large spotlight which emits a maximum of 550 lumens with a 90-meter beam distance.
The Apex LI has multiple lighting modes including a high and low spot, a high and low flood and a flash mode. Light modes are easily toggled using the large buttons on the headlamp body. The run time on high is an impressive 6.6 hours and over 13 hours on low thanks to the rechargeable battery back that sits separate from the main head lamp unit.
The battery pack will charge via any USB power block using the included charging cable in the package and takes around three hours to fully charge. When in use the battery pack can be clipped to the rear of the head and crown strap. The battery itself does not have a power meter, but a colored LED on the Apex body indicates current battery power.
This is a large package compared to many smaller headlamps. It is comfortable to wear but may require some adjustment if you are accustomed to a smaller head lamp setup.
The whole package is built tough for serious outdoor use, having an IPX7 waterproof rating meaning it can handle all manners of weather and can even remain submerged in 1 meter of water for up to 30 minutes without being damaged. The Battery and Apex head lamp unit are protected making it ideal for cold weather use without having to worry about rapid battery drain.
Pros
Has both spotlight and flood light modes
Very long battery life
Battery pack is external and can replaced or carry spare battery packs
Whole unit is water and weather resistant and can handle temporary submersion
Cons
Large overall size may take some getting used to
On the higher end of price range
Observer Tools 450 Head Lamp
Observer Tools makes a variety of lights geared toward industrial, outdoor, and everyday use. Currently the 450 is the only head lamp in their lineup and it has some impressive features. The unit features a single spotlight that can vary between 60 and 450 lumens. Light intensity is managed by a turning dial on the body that allows you to easily brighten and dim the light to your specific needs.
The 450 is powered by an internal lithium-ion battery offering 3.5 hours on high and up to 20 hours on low. The battery can be charged using a Micro-USB or USB-C cord depending on the production date.
A notable feature on the 450 is a motion sensor on off option that allows the user to turn the device on and off with a wave of your hand in front of the head lamp. If motion sensors aren’t your thing, the simple buttons on the head lamp can be used to manually turn the 450 on and off.
The 450 is rated IP67 for water and dust resistance allowing it to operate in all weather conditions and the internal battery is protected to reduced temperature related battery drain and damage.
Pros
Budget Friendly
Motion sensor for on/off
Fine control of brightness
Internal battery makes it compact
Water and Weather Resistant
Cons
Internal Battery is not replaceable
Some units use dated Micro-USB recharging
No flood light mode
Off Grid Lighting: Lanterns
Lanterns have been around for a long time; it is estimated that lanterns first originated in China in 230 BCE as part of festival celebrations and they continued to advance throughout human history to become a staple part of every outdoorsman’s gear. While early lanterns relied on combustible fuel, the first commercial lantern became available in the 1870’s. Even with the advent of electric lanterns, many outdoors people in the 20th century relied on combustible fuel lanterns and the classic green Coleman Lantern is an iconic item that brings back a feeling of nostalgia for many.
With improvements in both LED and battery technology, electric lanterns have come to the forefront of modern off grid lighting. Lanterns can create sustained light over extended periods of time. A good lantern will offer multiple brightness levels, and some have multiple lighting modes. Battery life is a top concern as is environmental resistance and durability.
Princeton Tec Helix LI
The Helix LI is Princeton Tec’s premier adventure lantern. This rechargeable lantern produces up to 300 lumens of white light or red light. Running up to 110 hours on white and 200 hours on red before needing a recharge.
The “rubbery” globe can snap down, and the legs fold up making a very compact package for transport. Weighing just under 5.5 ounces, the Helix is ideal for when you want to keep weight down in your pack. When collapsed the Helix is small enough to fit in a coat pocket or cargo pant pocket.
The top has a metal loop that can be used to hang the Helix in your tent or on a tree branch. The Helix is rated IPX6 meaning it can handle any level of falling rain but should not be submerged.
The battery is charged via micro-USB on the bottom of the base. You will also find a quick reference guide on how to use the Helix’s swipe bar to cycle through light modes.
Pros
Ultra compact
Red and white light modes
Long Run Time
Weather resistant
Cons
Swipe function takes some getting used to
Dated Micro-USB Charging
LEDLENSER ML6
LEDLENSER is known for making a variety of lighting solutions from handheld to lanterns. The ML6 is a dual light lantern that is about the same thickness as a full-sized flashlight. With a maximum output of 750 lumens of white light the ML6 can bring a large amount of light to an area and run for up to 4 hours at maximum or 240 hours on low red-light mode.
In addition to having dimmable red and white modes the ML6 also has pulse, strobe, and SOS mode. The top button and inner bottom ring both glow in the dark making it easier to find if off. The base has a collapsible hook allowing it to be hung.
The battery is charged via a covered micro-USB port and there is also a USB-A port that will allow you to charge other devices from the ML6’s internal battery. Rated at IP54, the ML6 can handle splashes but should not be submerged or left in driving rain for too long.
Pros
Very bright at maximum
White and Red light modes
Long run time in low red mode
Can be used to charge other devices
Cons
Water resistance is on the low end of acceptable
Not lightweight or particularly compact
Dated Micro-USB charging
A Final Note on Back Up Power
Off grid lighting and much more of our wilderness and emergency gear has become increasingly reliant on electric power. While we don’t have to worry about being on the move with combustible liquids or gas canisters, we should still have ways of charging our adventures lights and other electronic outdoor gear. Keeping power banks, solar chargers, or back up batteries with us is essential to keeping the lights on!
Weather and temperature resistant power banks, like the offerings from Dark Energy are ideal for emergency back up power for your off grid lighting.
