Its so nice to have a level headed guy just explain his kit without the ego & chip on the shoulder so many others have. I appreciate your common sense approach & delivery
How do you 'not' get involved in a 'survival situation'. No one looks for it (exception teenagers and stoned out). It just happens. Your partner breaks leg, bear rips your tent at 2am, heart attack or stroke. Things happen. Be prepared.
@@santafecanon We can't control much, but the majority of the time people get into survival situations is multi compounding bad decisions and errors in judgement. IE you're a lot less likely to break your leg from a fall if you are using hiking sticks and good boots.
I’ve been an outdoorsman for over 60 years and like you have gone through generations of gear and it’s evolution . What you have shown us today is all good no matter what your doing being it backpacking , fishing , or hunting the one think you didn’t mention was optics ( binoculars/ spotting scope ) which I’m sure you have . All of these items will make your life easier in the backcountry and could even help save your life . Thanks for the video Happy Trails
A quality knife is probably THE most important tool in anyone’s kit. It doesn’t have to cost hundreds of dollars, BUT, it MUST be rugged, take and hold a good edge and be where you can get to with one hand. The choice of a fixed blade is excellent for a primary knife. Also the old military saying “ 2 is 1 , 1 is none” is especially true with knives. One should ALWAYS have a spare knife of good quality. A knife can be easily lost, having a backup in the field is just good sense. It can be the same as the primary, bigger, smaller, a folder, whatever, but it is essential to have a backup knife. One broken blade will convince anyone in the field of the importance of having a knife. Good videos, thanks for taking the time.
I've already had my high dollar knives. Most have gone to new homes, and I still have my proven replaceable knives. I differ from many in that I like a longer blade than most people for dressing my game
I love being outside & gear & all the videos about gear for outside. This is my favorite outdoor gear recommendation video, because it's based on years spent outside, rather than contrived survival situations / challenges. Thanks for sharing!
Love your content. Back 46 yrs ago. I hunted woods from 50 yds - to 500. 1895 Winchester - 0 to 150 yds - 303 Brit --- P14 Enfield - 303 Brit - scoped - 150 to 300 yds. 300 to as far as I was willing to shoot. Paper got hammered a lot! LAST - 300 to 500 yds - A Lee-Enfield No4. welded action single shot - 7.62x51 - 308 Win. Bull barrel. Peep sights at 500 yds - I could cover the group with 2 playing cards.
I've never been a fan of trekking poles until I was given a pair last year. I took them with me to Snowdonia and found them really useful when descending steep rocky paths with a backpack. Thank you for sharing your experience over time. That always sorts the reliable kit from the gimmicks.
Agreed! I always thought I was “too young” to need them & they would be just one more pain in the butt item to carry. I was wrong on both counts. They’re perfect for descents on scree.
very good video on survival and helpful tools in hunting. Your no nonsense way of describing them and not doing an add for from a supply company is great. I live in Nova Scotia, Canada and don’t venture far. I’m 67 and love everything outdoors. I’m going to get walking sticks as I’m not in mountainous terrain, great help with my arthritis. Thank you for putting this video on RUclips
That was great! As an older guy I’ve discarded so much crap and like getting back to the basics, “necessities”. If you ain’t gonna actually use it, you don’t need it.
I keep one of those Perzl go/emergency lights in my pocket everyday and it’s saved my butt in power outages and earthquakes. Keep one in my hunting survival kit as well. Great little light! Love that it has a red led as well so I don’t blow out my natural night vision in the tent.
I've been carrying that same Petzyl light since 2009 I think. Goes inside a 1.5" elastic retainer loop under the lid of one of my small utility pouches on my vest I made. I've been making my own gear since the 1980s.
Cliff this is a older video but still a great one. I think, one of the first videos from witch I learned about your channel. Been following your tutorials ever since. Really liked the 1,500 dollar mountain rifle setup video. Also congrats on the Joe Rogan show. Keep up the good work. Just purchased my custom Buck 113 Ranger Skinner knife off the buck web site and followed up with a eBay purchase of Carl Thomas cross draw sheath. Keep posting the tutorials we are out here learning from you.
Glad I'm not the only one that struggled with my water system, I went from cheap plastic bottles that would leak all the time to expensive stainless bottles but certain juices would taste weird out of them and they had a narrow neck that was hard to clean, then I went to a cheap bladder that split and made a mess then to an expensive bladder that I had issues with the tube getting dirty and being impossible to clean and I finally settled on the same wide mouth nalgene as you. Just seems to work.
@@CliffGray If you drop a full Nalgene onto a rock it will crack and leak, not as good vs shocks like that as some other options, but I am just careful and one is in an insulated cover anyways and I have dropped that one on concrete without it breaking before. I still think overall its about as good as it gets, combined with a stainless steel big cup/small pot thing for boiling.
Very informative video, thank you for sharing all your experience with the why you used specific product. Regarding you iPhone, after eleven years iPhone only, I switched to Samsung Galaxy. Everything you mentioned about the iPhone is spot on, and also applies to the Samsung Galaxy as well. For me, after switching to Samsung Galaxy I experienced a tremendous improvement in productivity over the iPhone.
Zinke is an old Australian brand of thick sunscreen (which is why we call it Zinke (pronounced like zinc) and does indeed contain zinc oxide. Australia is the largest exporter of Zinc in the world, since our country contains over 20% of the world’s zinc oxide resource. However, this isn’t particularly important as zinc oxide blocks almost all types of UVA/B sun radiation, it also doesn’t deteriorate from the sun easily and works instantly when applied. This is why you see Australian surfers, lifeguards and sportsmen wear Zinke for sun protection. Especially since Australia has the harshest sun in the world (apart from Antartica) due to having a large hole in the ozone layer. As I type this my grandad has terminal skin cancer so needless to say sun protection is extremely important in this country.
Never been there myself .... but I could bet that the latitude that includes Jacksonville, fl is one of the most brutal in the world ..... follow it around the world .... it’s mostly desert ..... think Sahara desert , Libya , Saudi Arabia, Iraq , Iran , India , Afghanistan ..... in from this area of US . Keep the zinc on tap for sure .
Where I lived as a child we called this mammoth grease hahaha. Its not like there is a company named like this. But we didnt have any name for this thick greasy thing that protected us from sun and frostbite.
I saw the title and figured maybe I should watch since I own property off grid in Alaska and will be moving up there part time after my pending retirement….
2 things really blow my mind here 1: how relatable you are and how much trust this info, super down to earth and I greatly appreciate that 2: I’m from Arizona and what the hell are you doing in the show in that thin ass jacket and no gloves
Thank you very much, I live in Florida on a sailboat on and off for many years, Almost everything you mentioned for Navigation, lighting ,knife, etc etc, same as sailing offshore. I remember sailing without any GPS, sure we made it but we also prayed a lot more then,, To go offshore or hiking without a GPS is plan crazy, IMHO, enjoyed the vid. very much. Cheers
I have that same Petzel light, I keep it in my pocked whenever I’m in the woods. That and a flashlight that connects to a head strap. Carried a stari-pen for years too. Works great.
Way back, I read a story from a man who described starting on some pack train of mules, high up. He said, he was just a kid. And he kept getting old guys looking at his lower body, would shake their head, mumble like in dissaproval. Finally someone told him, how important it was to have a sharp knife ready, if an animal were to go over the side, to cut the rope quickly before it dragged others down. So a ridgid knife, of good lenth, but the sheath should be ankored, like tucked into the back pocket, or tied down....A loose hanging knife/sheath could buckle, keeping the knife from comming out. That is how military fighting knives are strapped down, in ridgid sheaths, for the same reasons. Emergency draw.
Good to know about the steripen. I've never known if it was a functional thing or not. I've used the Sawyers, and bleach and boiling, and iodine, and the commercial tablets. Used to just drink straight from the natural source many years ago, but I was fortunate and never got sick. I know somebody that did, and I thought it was going to require a medivac. Most of the high altitude technology doesn't apply for my situation, but it's always good to know Thanks for the video
Best way to use hiking sticks w/ straps is to run your hand up through the strap and then back down grabbing the stick w/ straps between your palm and the stick grip. This gives you a stronger grip on the stick and it puts some of the weight on the straps.
I like the commet at the beginning; you know what you've used as it shows a lot of wear. I heard somewhere that the more you carry throughout the years, you reach a peak of max packout. After that point you kinda just shed off things as you know the tried and true peices of gear. The progression is almost like a pyramid shape, or bell curve. Good vid man!
Well…. I think I’m an old badass but am glad I can admit/accept new learning. I’ve not done what you have by any stretch but I’m adapting based on some of your common sense information. Never too old to learn.
About your knees: Do you ever use collagen? It's the stuff that's inside the vertebrae of mammals. My Dad, brother and brother in law (truck driver, mechanic, electrician respectively) All had knee pain from the cartilage getitng worn out from use. Collagen is the building block that allows your body to rebuild and repair that cartilage. All of them either have no problems, or way less problems than they used to since supplementing with it. Order some of that stuff, it's incredible. I put a scoop in my coffee or oatmeal every morning.
@@CliffGray Let me know how it turns out. Being an active man is the best, being worn out isn't. Also thanks for the video, I downloaded OnX, will be dismounting/pack carrying my bipod, and will be taking an extra headlamp because of your experience.
Great review. I'm so old school, and probably over twice your age; but it was interesting to see what sort of gear and gadgets are being used these days. Sorry about your knees. I'm finally having to admit that age is catching up to me. By the way, I still have the Buck knife I bought in 1972. Subscribed.
@@CliffGray Hey cliff, I dont know if you have made a video detailing this but I can't seem to find any content on it. I would like to get involved in guiding for a living and I am fairly young (20). Any pointers on where to start? how to establish yourself and how to strategize your business and when do you know your guiding services are enough to start charging for?
Sorry to hear about your knees, I collapsed my arches a few years ago and have had all sorts of lower body issues till I bought some orthotic soles with arch support and they really helped re-align my bones and joints and nowadays I have greatly increased function and greatly reduced pain. Idk what all is going on with you but maybe look into it? I put them in my hiking shoes under the insoles and it's just next level comfort. Nice vid thx
Not a hunter myself, but I really enjoyed this video. Good solid info always interests me and you seem to know what you are talking about. Best wishes for whatever comes next in your endeavors.
Hey there Cliff - Scott here from Apex Mountain School just a few miles from you. Good to see the videos…especially the mountaineering gear plugs! 😀 Thanks for the videos as I venture more into your realm. Hope to catch up sometime in the field. Cheers
Hey Scott… many years ago I think we met. I believe I did a course with you guys. Im sure we’ll meet again! I hope business and life is treating you well 👍
I’ve been a hiker, backpacker for 50 years and really appreciated watching your common sense approach to this field. Gotta say I like the cowboy hat you’re wearing. Can you share the brand and model?
my son and I both use in reach to keep track of each other on mtn.I carry one of several tit .frame lock folders in pocket and a scalpel knife.I have EXCAT light as backup.I use bladder archery and bottles rifle.I have archery pack specific and rifle pack specific.ONX = MUST HAVE,for private areas for sure.I carry Atlas or a small tripod that doubles off my pic rail.Cat crap anti fog for optics.From my skiing days.Son got me Leki trekkers.When I was hard core muley in my 40's I always had my aluminum de tuned crampons.Been threw a lot of gaitors too
Just came across your video, I will be sure to check out the rest of them. I guided and packed in the Bob Marshall back in the 80's, and the only thing in your video that we would of had is that knife, and hat. Bugling was just starting to get popular. The evolution of it all is fascinating.
Nice video. I like your thought process. I have a "bad knee" also that I especially feel on descents. I have a suggestion that worked for me. I bought an aftermarket, lightweight alloy, handlebar end (for mountain bikes) and just Allen-wrenched it to my trekking pole which gave me that L-handled lateral support I wanted for my hand to support my leg.
Started watching your vids and very nice. I too have the petzl headlamp as a backup. Currently in my 'kill kit' but may place it in my bino harness for easy access if needed. Haven't heard of that sun protection which I need to look into.
Great video and maybe someone else in the comments said this already but it actually is made with zinc. And if you ever get an antibiotic ointment make sure it has zinc and that will help you as well with the sun.
I have a buck 113 on the way. I went to the website, and had them customize it with abit better steel. I like that size knife in a crossdraw sheath. Great when on horseback, and you can't get a knife out of pants pockets. Great choice!!
I think you can find this is a universal list of item in every experienced backcountry hunters back. I have all the same things in different variations. My ‘go to’ knife is a Cold Steel Voyager large folder. I don’t use a bipod but instead use my trekking poles. K ok me of the necessities I’ve found the handiest is a Hilleberg Tarp 10. I don’t have a Garmin but use a Zoleo. Great video.
Thank you RUclips algorithm for stumbling across your video. You remind me a lot of my dad in your gear uses/choices. He never was one to buy brand new top of the line but was still one to buy once, cry once. I can still remember all his trusty tools, hunting gear and apparel he used over the years much of which he still has and uses to this day. Solid video, look forward to seeing more. Lastly, where'd you get that fantastic hat, sir?
Once on a trail race I ended up using my back-up, back-up button battery light. I had two people without back-up following close with me. We had fun. I heard a story that night about a guy who tried to change the batteries on his light without another light. He dropped a part in the inky black dark and had to sit there by himself as his time ran out. DNF. Pretty sad for him. Just a couple of grams of back-up light can make all the difference.
Some things that run on AA and AAA batteries have a way of turning themselves on when packed and when you need them the batteries are dead. If you reverse one battery that won’t happen, you just have to remember reinstall the battery with the correct polarity.
Zinc-oxide. Works great. Doesn't matter what you call it, it's a very thick (the good o es are like paste) sunblock, white in color that has saved me and many others from skim cancer on the nose, ears and cheeks. The Buck 113/119s have been rock solid, no nonsense hunting knives for a very long time for a reason. Sure, have your other Essee, Tops, etc. bushcraft blades tun3d to whatever you're doing but a good utility/skinner is hard to beat. Steri-pens are the best for water filtration with a chemical backup, like Pot-Perm (potassium permanganate) which is good for everything from water sterilization to fire starting, just be sure your water is clear enough (pre-filter if too cloudy/dirty).
G'day, as TJ Willis says yep it does contain zinc down here anyone who goes outdoors uses a derivative of this. I found your site by accident and am so impressed with your approach and humility, I look forward to seeing the rest of your videos, cheers from down under down under (Tasmania)
I was a big game guide for over ten years, from my twenties into my thirties. It’s tough to walk away from. But kids, the wife, a stable 12 month income… these realities catch up with the best of us. Turns out you’ll always be a guide… you’ll just be putting a little bit of it into everything you do. It’ll be ok… sucks though!
The way you illustrate these encounters is remarkable. It's as if I'm right there with the people going through these situations. I've never encountered more than one at a time. But now listening to you it makes me wonder if that was the case after all. Thanks Fred for what you do.
@@QuitYoJibby-JabbinFool well that's kinda of hard to say. Depending on where I'm hunting or other activities. Open areas I carry a 300 winchester short mag. I really like the short bolt throw. Brush and thickets I Carrie an ar15 chambered in 450 bushmaster 9 round magazines. Can't get that big boar in any higher capacity and I really haven't need more than one round unless I happen upon a bunch of hogs. I always Carry a 10mm glock on a chest rig while I'm in the woods. Not that I'm paranoid or something. Lol
Great video. Thanks. Learn to use the straps on your walking sticks correctly and you will find that they are better than a cane/ice ax for descending.
I'm EMR and just a week ago was sitting in a church service in no mans land and was wondering how I could call a helicopter in so I took out my phone opened OnX, it said I was "Here" X, so I pushed the dot and there was the GPS coordinates... Two minutes later a child had a severe seizer and I called in the helicopter to within 50 yards of us...She fine now. Quite a nice product and accurate to a T. I Don't leave home without it.
Its so nice to have a level headed guy just explain his kit without the ego & chip on the shoulder so many others have. I appreciate your common sense approach & delivery
Glad you enjoyed the video 👍 appreciate the positive feedback
😊
Finally a survival expert who tells you not to get into a survival situation in the first place. Well done
Kinda like the best martial art technique: avoid the fight
How do you 'not' get involved in a 'survival situation'. No one looks for it (exception teenagers and stoned out). It just happens. Your partner breaks leg, bear rips your tent at 2am, heart attack or stroke. Things happen. Be prepared.
@@santafecanon We can't control much, but the majority of the time people get into survival situations is multi compounding bad decisions and errors in judgement. IE you're a lot less likely to break your leg from a fall if you are using hiking sticks and good boots.
I’ve been an outdoorsman for over 60 years and like you have gone through generations of gear and it’s evolution . What you have shown us today is all good no matter what your doing being it backpacking , fishing , or hunting the one think you didn’t mention was optics ( binoculars/ spotting scope ) which I’m sure you have . All of these items will make your life easier in the backcountry and could even help save your life . Thanks for the video
Happy Trails
Thanks Mike!
A quality knife is probably THE most important tool in anyone’s kit. It doesn’t have to cost hundreds of dollars, BUT, it MUST be rugged, take and hold a good edge and be where you can get to with one hand.
The choice of a fixed blade is excellent for a primary knife. Also the old military saying “ 2 is 1 , 1 is none” is especially true with knives. One should ALWAYS have a spare knife of good quality. A knife can be easily lost, having a backup in the field is just good sense. It can be the same as the primary, bigger, smaller, a folder, whatever, but it is essential to have a backup knife.
One broken blade will convince anyone in the field of the importance of having a knife.
Good videos, thanks for taking the time.
Thanks for the comment. Great tip on having a backup!
I've already had my high dollar
knives. Most have gone to new
homes, and I still have my
proven replaceable knives.
I differ from many in that I
like a longer blade than most
people for dressing my game
The voice, confidence, demeanor, calmness; all simply point to well-earned experienced. Came for the gear, stayed for the talk ;)
Those walking sticks are a must have. I'm 47 with bad knees and my sticks have saved me many times. I never hike without them.
I'm there with ya!
I love being outside & gear & all the videos about gear for outside. This is my favorite outdoor gear recommendation video, because it's based on years spent outside, rather than contrived survival situations / challenges. Thanks for sharing!
Glad you enjoyed it! Thanks
Love your content. Back 46 yrs ago. I hunted woods from 50 yds - to 500. 1895 Winchester - 0 to 150 yds - 303 Brit --- P14 Enfield - 303 Brit - scoped - 150 to 300 yds. 300 to as far as I was willing to shoot. Paper got hammered a lot! LAST - 300 to 500 yds - A Lee-Enfield No4. welded action single shot - 7.62x51 - 308 Win. Bull barrel. Peep sights at 500 yds - I could cover the group with 2 playing cards.
I've never been a fan of trekking poles until I was given a pair last year. I took them with me to Snowdonia and found them really useful when descending steep rocky paths with a backpack. Thank you for sharing your experience over time. That always sorts the reliable kit from the gimmicks.
Agreed! I always thought I was “too young” to need them & they would be just one more pain in the butt item to carry. I was wrong on both counts. They’re perfect for descents on scree.
I can literally feel the experience in your voice. Thank you for sharing your expertise with us, you’ve gained a new sub!
Holy crow! He’s back! Knife sharpening vid was my bible for years! Cheers
😁👍👊
That headlamp has saved my ass so many times. I personally think it is amazing that I haven't lost that tiny thing in 15+ years!
I have two, one stays in the car, one in the pack.
I bought my mother one for when she went on a cruise, they are awesome
As a new hunter, I just discovered you and your channel. I learn everytime I watch. Love it Cliff keep it going.
Thanks! glad the videos are helpful.... I'll keep them coming :)
very good video on survival and helpful tools in hunting. Your no nonsense way of describing them and not doing an add for from a supply company is great. I live in Nova Scotia, Canada and don’t venture far. I’m 67 and love everything outdoors. I’m going to get walking sticks as I’m not in mountainous terrain, great help with my arthritis. Thank you for putting this video on RUclips
Thanks Barry!
Cliff, I appreciate your knowledge and you sharing it to all of us. Thanks for what you do!
Thanks man!
That was great! As an older guy I’ve discarded so much crap and like getting back to the basics, “necessities”. If you ain’t gonna actually use it, you don’t need it.
for sure! thanks
As a newish hunter, I am grateful for any and all advice and experience
Smart. Be a sponge, learn from others. Take what fits you and discard what doesn't.
I keep one of those Perzl go/emergency lights in my pocket everyday and it’s saved my butt in power outages and earthquakes. Keep one in my hunting survival kit as well. Great little light! Love that it has a red led as well so I don’t blow out my natural night vision in the tent.
I've been carrying that same Petzyl light since 2009 I think. Goes inside a 1.5" elastic retainer loop under the lid of one of my small utility pouches on my vest I made. I've been making my own gear since the 1980s.
Cliff this is a older video but still a great one. I think, one of the first videos from witch I learned about your channel. Been following your tutorials ever since. Really liked the 1,500 dollar mountain rifle setup video. Also congrats on the Joe Rogan show. Keep up the good work. Just purchased my custom Buck 113 Ranger Skinner knife off the buck web site and followed up with a eBay purchase of Carl Thomas cross draw sheath. Keep posting the tutorials we are out here learning from you.
Thanks man! glad to hear they are helpful to you!
Thank you for the pro-tips Cliff! I really appreciate your approach to teaching.
Glad I'm not the only one that struggled with my water system, I went from cheap plastic bottles that would leak all the time to expensive stainless bottles but certain juices would taste weird out of them and they had a narrow neck that was hard to clean, then I went to a cheap bladder that split and made a mess then to an expensive bladder that I had issues with the tube getting dirty and being impossible to clean and I finally settled on the same wide mouth nalgene as you. Just seems to work.
Yeah they do. Not ideal on some metrics, but I have had some wide mouth nalgenes for close to a decade without issue
@@CliffGray If you drop a full Nalgene onto a rock it will crack and leak, not as good vs shocks like that as some other options, but I am just careful and one is in an insulated cover anyways and I have dropped that one on concrete without it breaking before. I still think overall its about as good as it gets, combined with a stainless steel big cup/small pot thing for boiling.
Amazing video and great information from a guy with experience! Much appreciated.
One advantage of the Steripen is that you don't have to worry about the cold. Many water filters are destroyed by freezing.
good tip, thanks
I keep mine on a cord with a bic lighter around my neck. It's worth the instant filtration in my opinion.
Great pt
Very informative video, thank you for sharing all your experience with the why you used specific product. Regarding you iPhone, after eleven years iPhone only, I switched to Samsung Galaxy. Everything you mentioned about the iPhone is spot on, and also applies to the Samsung Galaxy as well. For me, after switching to Samsung Galaxy I experienced a tremendous improvement in productivity over the iPhone.
Dermatone ❤ I started using that in 1999 living in the French Alps. Stops all the ice and wind burn too
Zinke is an old Australian brand of thick sunscreen (which is why we call it Zinke (pronounced like zinc) and does indeed contain zinc oxide. Australia is the largest exporter of Zinc in the world, since our country contains over 20% of the world’s zinc oxide resource. However, this isn’t particularly important as zinc oxide blocks almost all types of UVA/B sun radiation, it also doesn’t deteriorate from the sun easily and works instantly when applied. This is why you see Australian surfers, lifeguards and sportsmen wear Zinke for sun protection. Especially since Australia has the harshest sun in the world (apart from Antartica) due to having a large hole in the ozone layer. As I type this my grandad has terminal skin cancer so needless to say sun protection is extremely important in this country.
The ozone layer….🤣
Never been there myself .... but I could bet that the latitude that includes Jacksonville, fl is one of the most brutal in the world ..... follow it around the world .... it’s mostly desert ..... think Sahara desert , Libya , Saudi Arabia, Iraq , Iran , India , Afghanistan ..... in from this area of US . Keep the zinc on tap for sure .
And New Zealands harsh sun cobber🌞🌞🌞🤣🤣😄👍😁👊🤘
Good information. Sunglasses are a must as well. Especially in the snow.
Where I lived as a child we called this mammoth grease hahaha. Its not like there is a company named like this. But we didnt have any name for this thick greasy thing that protected us from sun and frostbite.
I saw the title and figured maybe I should watch since I own property off grid in Alaska and will be moving up there part time after my pending retirement….
2 things really blow my mind here
1: how relatable you are and how much trust this info, super down to earth and I greatly appreciate that
2: I’m from Arizona and what the hell are you doing in the show in that thin ass jacket and no gloves
Haha! Thanks man. On #1 🙏. On #2 since this video I’ve moved to warmer places… pretty much think the same thing! Bwhaha I guess we adapt!
Nuthin' better than hard-earned experience!
Thanks for sharing!
You bet!
Very good. I also like Buck Knives.
Buck knives are awesome 420hc gets super sharp and their fit and finish is amazing for the price
Thank you very much, I live in Florida on a sailboat on and off for many years, Almost everything you mentioned for Navigation, lighting ,knife, etc etc, same as sailing offshore. I remember sailing without any GPS, sure we made it but we also prayed a lot more then,, To go offshore or hiking without a GPS is plan crazy, IMHO, enjoyed the vid. very much. Cheers
Thanks Brice
I enjoyed your video. I honestly think this is the first one I have seen that had me nodding my head over and over saying that makes sense...
Outstanding!
Thanks!
I have that same Petzel light, I keep it in my pocked whenever I’m in the woods. That and a flashlight that connects to a head strap.
Carried a stari-pen for years too. Works great.
Those petzl lights are a lifesaver
Way back, I read a story from a man who described starting
on some pack train of mules, high up. He said, he was just a kid.
And he kept getting old guys looking at his lower body,
would shake their head, mumble like in dissaproval.
Finally someone told him, how important it was to have a sharp knife ready, if an animal were to go over the side, to cut the rope quickly before it dragged others down. So a ridgid knife, of good
lenth, but the sheath should be ankored, like tucked into the
back pocket, or tied down....A loose hanging knife/sheath
could buckle, keeping the knife from comming out. That is how military fighting knives are strapped down, in
ridgid sheaths, for the same reasons. Emergency draw.
Thank you, Mr. Gray!
Haven't hunted in years but much of your gear is good for camping, hiking, & bushcraft & survival.
Have a GREAT day, Neighbor!
You too Jon! Thanks
I don't even hunt lol.... am a backpacker/survivalist/fisherman... Great info from this guy... Clearly hunting also helps survive 😂
I like the cross draw for the knife carry. Thanks!
The thing I love about Nalgene bottles is they nest easily with my stainless steel cup
What kind of cup?
Brand name Bugaboo
Good to know about the steripen.
I've never known if it was a
functional thing or not.
I've used the Sawyers, and bleach
and boiling, and iodine, and the
commercial tablets. Used to just
drink straight from the natural
source many years ago, but I was
fortunate and never got sick. I
know somebody that did, and I
thought it was going to require
a medivac.
Most of the high altitude technology
doesn't apply for my situation, but it's always good to know
Thanks for the video
Thanks Max 👍
Best way to use hiking sticks w/ straps is to run your hand up through the strap and then back down grabbing the stick w/ straps between your palm and the stick grip. This gives you a stronger grip on the stick and it puts some of the weight on the straps.
I like the commet at the beginning; you know what you've used as it shows a lot of wear. I heard somewhere that the more you carry throughout the years, you reach a peak of max packout. After that point you kinda just shed off things as you know the tried and true peices of gear. The progression is almost like a pyramid shape, or bell curve. Good vid man!
Yes I hear ya, at some point you do start minimizing it to what you use. Thanks
Well…. I think I’m an old badass but am glad I can admit/accept new learning. I’ve not done what you have by any stretch but I’m adapting based on some of your common sense information. Never too old to learn.
Hunting is really my subject but I love being outdoors. Great info. Great presentation.
Thanks!
I like to use 1 trekking pole. If you put your hand through the lanyard downwards then grab the handle you can put your weight into it.
About your knees: Do you ever use collagen? It's the stuff that's inside the vertebrae of mammals. My Dad, brother and brother in law (truck driver, mechanic, electrician respectively) All had knee pain from the cartilage getitng worn out from use. Collagen is the building block that allows your body to rebuild and repair that cartilage. All of them either have no problems, or way less problems than they used to since supplementing with it.
Order some of that stuff, it's incredible. I put a scoop in my coffee or oatmeal every morning.
thanks! i'll check it out
@@CliffGray Let me know how it turns out. Being an active man is the best, being worn out isn't.
Also thanks for the video, I downloaded OnX, will be dismounting/pack carrying my bipod, and will be taking an extra headlamp because of your experience.
@@JacopoSkydweller 👍👍👍
@@CliffGray Did you ever try out that collagen?
Nothing like experience. Learn from those who've done.
Great review.
I'm so old school, and probably over twice your age; but it was interesting to see what sort of gear and gadgets are being used these days.
Sorry about your knees. I'm finally having to admit that age is catching up to me.
By the way, I still have the Buck knife I bought in 1972.
Subscribed.
👍
@@CliffGray Hey cliff, I dont know if you have made a video detailing this but I can't seem to find any content on it. I would like to get involved in guiding for a living and I am fairly young (20). Any pointers on where to start? how to establish yourself and how to strategize your business and when do you know your guiding services are enough to start charging for?
Great to have u back
Thanks man!
Dermatone is also great for frost bite protection - I rely on it heavily here in Fairbanks, AK.
Sorry to hear about your knees, I collapsed my arches a few years ago and have had all sorts of lower body issues till I bought some orthotic soles with arch support and they really helped re-align my bones and joints and nowadays I have greatly increased function and greatly reduced pain. Idk what all is going on with you but maybe look into it? I put them in my hiking shoes under the insoles and it's just next level comfort. Nice vid thx
Thanks man, I have started to use insoles and they seem to help.
Not a hunter myself, but I really enjoyed this video. Good solid info always interests me and you seem to know what you are talking about. Best wishes for whatever comes next in your endeavors.
Thanks Peggy!
Great to see you back Cliff. As always some of the best info on western hunting that’s out there. Best wishes for this transition in your life.
Really appreciate it! thanks
Thanks for all the practice advice on equipment.
first time listening to you, actually your knife sharpening vid was my first, very informative and thank you for sharing. got another sub
Thanks Zeke! 👍
Those quick sticks are a great tip. I just ordered some.
Hey there Cliff - Scott here from Apex Mountain School just a few miles from you. Good to see the videos…especially the mountaineering gear plugs! 😀 Thanks for the videos as I venture more into your realm. Hope to catch up sometime in the field. Cheers
Hey Scott… many years ago I think we met. I believe I did a course with you guys.
Im sure we’ll meet again! I hope business and life is treating you well 👍
@@CliffGray I’ll look forward to that Cliff. Do you contract for planning services? I’m currently prepping for my first Elk season and curious.
@@scottsmith273 Hi Scott, I don't right now but might do some of that down the road. Thanks
I’ve been a hiker, backpacker for 50 years and really appreciated watching your common sense approach to this field. Gotta say I like the cowboy hat you’re wearing. Can you share the brand and model?
Difference between an amateur and an actual hiker/hunter : knows he needs a sharpener for his knife.
Cliff- thank you for a very informative video- it could save my life…
Glad it was helpful! thanks!
my son and I both use in reach to keep track of each other on mtn.I carry one of several tit .frame lock folders in pocket and a scalpel knife.I have EXCAT light as backup.I use bladder archery and bottles rifle.I have archery pack specific and rifle pack specific.ONX = MUST HAVE,for private areas for sure.I carry Atlas or a small tripod that doubles off my pic rail.Cat crap anti fog for optics.From my skiing days.Son got me Leki trekkers.When I was hard core muley in my 40's I always had my aluminum de tuned crampons.Been threw a lot of gaitors too
Awesome! Thank for sharing the great advice!
thanks Charles
Great to see you back
Thanks!
Just came across your video, I will be sure to check out the rest of them. I guided and packed in the Bob Marshall back in the 80's, and the only thing in your video that we would of had is that knife, and hat. Bugling was just starting to get popular. The evolution of it all is fascinating.
That's awesome. I'm sure you had some adventures in the Bob!
Just found your channel brother. You make some real great content and you seem like a great guy
Thanks man
Nice video. I like your thought process.
I have a "bad knee" also that I especially feel on descents. I have a suggestion that worked for me. I bought an aftermarket, lightweight alloy, handlebar end (for mountain bikes) and just Allen-wrenched it to my trekking pole which gave me that L-handled lateral support I wanted for my hand to support my leg.
Love it. Great tip man, thanks for sharing.
Super interesting list. Many new items for my shopping list. Thanks greatly! Cheers from Canada.
Started watching your vids and very nice. I too have the petzl headlamp as a backup. Currently in my 'kill kit' but may place it in my bino harness for easy access if needed. Haven't heard of that sun protection which I need to look into.
Great video and maybe someone else in the comments said this already but it actually is made with zinc. And if you ever get an antibiotic ointment make sure it has zinc and that will help you as well with the sun.
Thank you! Good to know
Some great info!! I look forward to doing more back country hunting with tips from you, thank you again!!!
Thanks
Great video full of great information 👍
thanks Perry
I have a buck 113 on the way. I went to the website, and had them customize it with abit better steel. I like that size knife in a crossdraw sheath. Great when on horseback, and you can't get a knife out of pants pockets. Great choice!!
Which steel did you choose?
@@mrpops09 S30V
@@gulfcowboy819 thanks
I think you can find this is a universal list of item in every experienced backcountry hunters back. I have all the same things in different variations. My ‘go to’ knife is a Cold Steel Voyager large folder. I don’t use a bipod but instead use my trekking poles. K ok me of the necessities I’ve found the handiest is a Hilleberg Tarp 10. I don’t have a Garmin but use a Zoleo. Great video.
I think your right, pretty much essential items where everyone has their preference. Thanks for commenting!
Great info. Love it
Excellent to see you back
Thanks man!
@@CliffGrayhope things go great for ya 🙏🏻
Thank you RUclips algorithm for stumbling across your video. You remind me a lot of my dad in your gear uses/choices. He never was one to buy brand new top of the line but was still one to buy once, cry once. I can still remember all his trusty tools, hunting gear and apparel he used over the years much of which he still has and uses to this day. Solid video, look forward to seeing more.
Lastly, where'd you get that fantastic hat, sir?
Hi Tara, appreciate the feedback! thanks
A client gave me that hat years ago as a tip, it is a Kemo Sabe hat from a store in Aspen, CO
Once on a trail race I ended up using my back-up, back-up button battery light. I had two people without back-up following close with me. We had fun. I heard a story that night about a guy who tried to change the batteries on his light without another light. He dropped a part in the inky black dark and had to sit there by himself as his time ran out. DNF. Pretty sad for him. Just a couple of grams of back-up light can make all the difference.
For sure! Lights and having a backup is easy to overlook… then one day you get reminded! Haha
Thank you!.....awesome video
Thank you. J.
Great video
Thanks
Some things that run on AA and AAA batteries have a way of turning themselves on when packed and when you need them the batteries are dead. If you reverse one battery that won’t happen, you just have to remember reinstall the battery with the correct polarity.
good tip. thanks Ed.
Wrap with paper or thin plastic
that can be quickly and easily
removed. It'll also serve as fire
tinder if needed
Quite interesting. Thanks for the video!
Great video. Thank you.
Zinc-oxide. Works great. Doesn't matter what you call it, it's a very thick (the good o es are like paste) sunblock, white in color that has saved me and many others from skim cancer on the nose, ears and cheeks.
The Buck 113/119s have been rock solid, no nonsense hunting knives for a very long time for a reason. Sure, have your other Essee, Tops, etc. bushcraft blades tun3d to whatever you're doing but a good utility/skinner is hard to beat.
Steri-pens are the best for water filtration with a chemical backup, like Pot-Perm (potassium permanganate) which is good for everything from water sterilization to fire starting, just be sure your water is clear enough (pre-filter if too cloudy/dirty).
Here from Joe. These videos are great! Keep them going
Awesome!
EMP/Solar Flares might have something to say about those electronics.... always have a topo and compass as backup! 👈
Really enjoyed the video! Thanks!
Thank you for this video. Great advice and insights.
G'day, as TJ Willis says yep it does contain zinc down here anyone who goes outdoors uses a derivative of this. I found your site by accident and am so impressed with your approach and humility, I look forward to seeing the rest of your videos, cheers from down under down under (Tasmania)
Thanks Kevin!
Thank you for sharing all your knowledge
Good tips and a very useful list. Thanks
I was a big game guide for over ten years, from my twenties into my thirties. It’s tough to walk away from. But kids, the wife, a stable 12 month income… these realities catch up with the best of us. Turns out you’ll always be a guide… you’ll just be putting a little bit of it into everything you do. It’ll be ok… sucks though!
Thanks Warren 👍
Thank you sir
The way you illustrate these encounters is remarkable. It's as if I'm right there with the people going through these situations. I've never encountered more than one at a time. But now listening to you it makes me wonder if that was the case after all. Thanks Fred for what you do.
Thus has been one of the GREATEST RESOURCE VIDEOS I HAVE EVER SEEN.
Whats your favorite all around rifle calibre?
@@QuitYoJibby-JabbinFool well that's kinda of hard to say. Depending on where I'm hunting or other activities. Open areas I carry a 300 winchester short mag. I really like the short bolt throw. Brush and thickets I Carrie an ar15 chambered in 450 bushmaster 9 round magazines. Can't get that big boar in any higher capacity and I really haven't need more than one round unless I happen upon a bunch of hogs. I always Carry a 10mm glock on a chest rig while I'm in the woods. Not that I'm paranoid or something. Lol
Great video! Thank you! I'd love to see a video on how to find an outfitter (if that's what you call it), or guide, for a first hunt.
Awesome video, thank you! 👍🏻
That was really interesting. Thanks
Great video. Thanks. Learn to use the straps on your walking sticks correctly and you will find that they are better than a cane/ice ax for descending.
I'm EMR and just a week ago was sitting in a church service in no mans land and was wondering how I could call a helicopter in so I took out my phone opened OnX, it said I was "Here" X, so I pushed the dot and there was the GPS coordinates... Two minutes later a child had a severe seizer and I called in the helicopter to within 50 yards of us...She fine now. Quite a nice product and accurate to a T. I Don't leave home without it.
That is wild!