I’m a farmer and I use these blankets on sick livestock, mostly calves. A hot water bottle, a bed of straw and a space blanket wrapped around them revives sick calves every time.
@Dawne41 I'm not sure but ,if anyone else trying to find out canned food survival try Franaar Spies Control Formula (do a search on google ) ? Ive heard some interesting things about it and my brother in law got excellent results with it.
I would have a few hard candies and a couple of tea candles in my kit. I could put one candle between my legs and wrap those space blankets around me. Tea candles burn for about 5 hours so two would get me through a cold night. Heat on the outside heat on the inside.
Great video on how to use a Space blanket. I was on a hiking trip once when a cold front past through. Came across a couple that had put all their faith in a space blanket to protect them. The problem was they didn’t know how to use it and it wasn’t big enough to cover both of them. Got a fire going warmed them up and got them back to the trail head. To many people throw stuff into their back pack with no idea how to use it. My wife use to think it was funny that I would camp in the back yard to test stuff before going out. Now she understands why.
I used to liken it to the other half trying a new outfit/shoes on before wearing them for a night out, You see what works with what, make sure stuff does its job as intended and is comfortable enough to endure.
I’ve had by life saved twice by space blankets. First time was in Chicago when my freightliner broke down during a blizzard with 10 below temps. I used both of my blankets with the space blanket in between. 6 hours later when the tow truck finally arrived he had to wake me up, because I was sleeping comfortably in the bunk. Second was in Beach, ND. Same truck blew a coolant line it was 20 below, but I had my trusty space blanket and with the addition of a heated mattress pad I was able to get a good nights sleep. To this day I always have at least 1 space blanket and 2 or 3 regular blankets and a heated mattress pad in my big rig just in case.
I'm not arguing or being a dick but i think that's exactly what they are.. lifesavers. obviously if it's 4 degrees, you're F'd but if it's 30 or 40, it'll keep you from getting hypothermic (according to the dictionary, i made that word up!).. like i said, justa thought. hope i never have to open mine to find out!
@@morrisadams539 - Point taken and I'm going to say you're right. If, for some reason, I find myself soaking wet in 30°-40° Fahrenheit, yes, I'll use the relective mylar. Without it, what are my odds if I don't get a heat source. I've been hypothermic before. As a teen I fell through ice in a shallow creek. I was up to my chest, the air temperature was 26°. Fortunately, I was a quarter of a mile from home. First came the shivers, then, for me, the hands went, paralysis of fingers and toes. After that a warm, giddy feeling came over me, much like laughing gas from the dentist. My friends made sure my parents knew what happened. Half of what happened I don't remember, but from what I was told. It sneaks up quickly and after the initial pain it's like having hypoglycemia. I'm diabetic.
@@fredthorne9692 and to that point, i think the odds of being soaking wet in 30-40 degree weather is very high versus 4 degrees. if we have to hoof-it in zero-teens, we're in a mess! getting wet is pretty much a guarantee!! take care.
Because people doesn't use common sense that is pitched often by survivalists enough. Its easier to say that space blankets are for trapping pockets of warm ar, and is useless without empty pockets of air like if you wrap your finger and touch snow.
Good stuff. I just bought a 80% wool shipping blanket and spray mounted a space blanket on each side. Interior for reflecting radiant heat the wool for insulation and exterior for water resistance. So far it's been a good performer.
Harbor Freight has some pretty cheap ones that are 80%. Only about $20. But they stink like machine oil. A good was with lots of detergent and air dry and it will be good. They lose a lot of lose material that first wash, but after that they are good. Got one in my bug out bag.
You mentioned "... I just bought a 80% wool shipping blanket and spray mounted a space blanket on each side. Interior for reflecting radiant heat the wool for insulation and exterior for water resistance..." What is a spray mounted space blanket?
I purchased one of the original space blankets back in the early 70s and took it instead of a sleeping bag on a bicycle camping trip to the Oregon coast, I froze my ass off. :-) A classic learning experience. Unfortunately you and RUclips weren't available back then. Keep up the good work.
I did a similar thing in 1980, but used them for a tent. On top of snow. I had a sleeping bag but still felt lucky to be alive after 3 hrs. Luckily had a plan B!
That was because, as Lonnie explained, conduction leeches the heat from your body, so the blanket can't really be in contact, you need space. The blanket works as a reflector of your body heat through radiation, contact with your body turns into conductive heat loss.
I did the same thing in the ‘80’s as a teenager. I believed the advertising that said ‘reflects 90% of radiated heat’ and thought I’d be too warm in it! That night taught me the difference between radiation and conduction...
Finnish Defence Forces taught us to tuck the blanket inside the clothes and helmet as a part of treating the battlefield wounded in sub-zero, preserving core temps of the wounded fighter gives him much more survival time, even while laying on frozen ground (you can actually lay there for quite a while and still be all warm and fuzzy). That heat-shield method looks great if you are still capable of acting on your own, building a fire etc. I always carry one with me. Just to second Lonnie here. Don't cheap out on this even though you might think it's just a piece foil. A cheap one easily tears to shreds, is leaf-thin, clings to itself and most likely too small. You don't want to sit there wet and freezing, pulling it on with shaky hands and ending up tearing it up and noticing how bad it is. Looking back you cheaped out on it and never pulled it out of the bag to inspect it's usability. While these are generally cheap, you're much better off bying the 10€ one instead of the 2€ one.
Thank you Lonny! Love your channel! I'm a homeless government whistleblower. Our homeless camp is very warm & comfortable. I bought 30 of the good heavy duty ER+ Everready Fort Aid Mylar blankets @ 10 for $15. OD green. Preparing to make a video. Haven't picked out a good camera yet. I do have on video on my channel but I'm re-recording it because I rambled about our investigation.
I've used these too. They are really great as a reflector behind you for the campfire as he showed. I could notice a definite feeling of heat hitting me from behind while sitting in front of the fire.
Was it nice to see a simple video experience? Instead of idiots doing dumb things? Yelling "smash that like button, and subscribe, check out my Instagram Twitter Facebook and Patreon. Please comment below". Then they jam 9 ads in a 15min video.
Here's a tip for you. bring a couple contractor trash bags. Contractor bags are longer. Fill two with evergreen boughs, needles, or leaves. One to lay or sit on, one to cover up with. Lawn and leaf bags work but it'will take more to be completely covered. Six inches of air tight loft provides incredible insulation.
It's lightweight, compact, and utilizes indigenous materials you don't need to pack in. The plastic isolates bugs and pitch. Poke a few holes in the top of the bottom cushion to prevent moisture buildup.
always keep a few in my bag or car, so small but very versatile. i tried a tent made of space blanket material and i could really feel the difference from the temperature outdoors, thank you for sharing your experience it really reinforces the several thin layers of clothing to trap air concept.
This saved my life up in elk mtn CO i put a wall around me with 3 space blankets and then i put 3 others on the opposite side of my fire. And it was almost to hot. It was -7 F that night.
Yeah I always carry extras of the little pocket foil ones just for that along with the 1 and 2 person SOL ones I also carry a small wool blend or fleece blanket or my military poncho liner for extra warmth and the heavy duty emergency blanket because redundancy can save your butt.
this blanket saved me and my dogs life up on a mountain in Idaho. one thing I'd like to add is the confirmation from wrapping urself in this I was warm yes but perspiration had made a puddle inside the blanket by morning luckily the sun was back and I could get a fire going otherwise waking up warm but wet coming out of that blanket could have serious consequences so remember to intermittently burp ur wrap as to not retain water vapor.
Nice to see you back! Please tell Connie we are still enjoying her baked sliced apples with butter and cinnamon. Recently we tried adding a sliced banana to the apples.. as it cooks the banana literally melts into the apples and adds a natural sweetness. These ‘space’ blankets are intriguing in what they do, and don’t do. Good video!
13:43 ... thats true!. This is why draping sheets from the roof poles, and living on the inside bit in a yurt helps. The 4" air gap between the wall and suspended sheet is what keeps the cold out. Nice ideas, all the best.
every second of your video holds valuable information, I haven't found another survival expert on your level, you make all the other youtube experts look like children with toys in their cool backpacks running around in the playground making sandcastles.
It was in the early 70's that I first used an "NRC space blanket". My brother in law and I were just on a backpacking hike and the weather was in the 20's F. After pitching our tent. We just hung the space blanket like Lonnie did, and built a small fire. In no time we were sitting there comfortably drinking coffee in our shirt sleeves and were very comfortable from the reflective radiant heat. They work !!! May God bless you & Connie.
I don't ever expect to be caught in out in the cold, but I've got these SOL space blankets everywhere on that outside chance that I may. Thanks for showing me how to use them for the best results, Lonnie!
I have always wondered how these worked. I will now be getting a few to add to my emergency kit that I have in my car. I drive long distance during the winter and this may one day come in handy. Thank you for all the videos the two of you make. I find them very helpful.
It's still useful as ground cover as a vapor and moisture barrier, while still reflecting heat. I used one as ground cover AND inside my sleeping bag. The layers inside my sleeping bag consisted of: sleeping bag, space blanket, thin wool blanket, my sleepwear, then me. I layered these things like crazy one homeless winter with clothing, sleeping gear and perimeter barriers (for instance, hanging over me like a close-quarter tent while I slept, or used to reflect heat back from the campfire as you did) to survive in 30 below zero weather conditions. Keep in mind, they not only reflect heat, but can act as a windbreaker and as a moisture/evaporative barrier. In a pinch they can be used for a ton of other purposes - for signaling or for markers, wrapping things (food, etc), rain protection or collection, etc. They are a great, small and lightweight multi-purpose item to have in your survival kit.
Thank you for this. Very clear and backed up with science, winner! I appreciate you and your good lady (and your doggy) hanging around in the snow in order to help the rest of us. Cheers Man.
I hope this finds you all safe and sound. You mentioned the use of the space blanket in a tent. When I hiked the AT I used a space blanket under my tent as a moisture barrier and it worked quite well for that.
Hands down, one of the best survival channels on RUclips. Thanks in part to the fact that he isn't trying to sell garbage trinkets for ad dollars. Nope! This guy is truthful and honest.
Great survival item, as the sound of one being unfolded can be heard 30 miles away and will draw any fellow outdoorsperson to your location, as they know you're in trouble if you using this
I have recently found your channel. I cannot get enough of your great tutorials and stories. I have recently started hiking and camping and I have found your knowledge to be awesome. Thank you so much.
I wish I had seen this video 4 years ago when I started hammock camping. I brought a space blanket for an insulating layer, and froze my butt off! Now I know why. lol. Thanks and God Bless to you both.
The only way this may work well is under the hammock draped maybe 6-8" below making a separate air pocket that will also help radiate your heat back up. In construction, all these radiant barriers require an "air gap" to function properly. Used as a foilbacked foam thermal brake, for proper radiation blocking you need a gap between the foil side and finishing materials. Furring strips typically accomplish this.
@@AnythingOutdoorswithSteve Yeah, Steve, I bought an underquilt that does exactly what you have described. It creates that air gap you talked about. Thanks for the comment buddy.
i was one of those dummies who thought that space blankets were the big life saver,but after watching your video i have had to reavaluate my thinking.i will probably never need to use a foil blanket,but if i do at least now i can greatly increase my chance of survival.
Good job sir. A word to the Wise for those who haven't used a space blanket: many brands are very cheap and rip easily! Buy a heavier gauge and the larger size. Oh, and they are very loud!!!
You are a true outdoorsman! I have used space blankets for its purpose a few times. I have also used them as a fire reflector and emergency tarp. Excellent piece of kit and for the price/size, everyone should have a couple on them in the woods.
Lost my tent, sleeping bag soaked, everything wet, raining steadily in winter. Wrapped myself in the space blanket, and put my poncho liner over the top. Kept me warm and dry sitting on a log til daylight. Given theyre cheap and easy to carry why wouldnt you have one around...
Very informative! I wouldve never thought a space blanket could be so useful because they're so thin. I'm definitely gonna get a few just to have on hand in the car and my camping and hiking supplies. Great video!
good tips on space blankets on what they can and can not do....I have the 2 person SOL blanket along with a military wool blanket in my truck just in case of a break downs in the winter months (it's there all year round) thanks for sharing this video
good question SOL is a company that makes survive stuff SOL Survive Outdoors Longer here is link to their stuff, they make better than average survival gear on a budget www.surviveoutdoorslonger.com/
Thank you for the informative video Lonnie! Back in the past I made a video where I used the cheap space blanket behind the camp chair. I made a fire in front of me. The blanket blocked the wind and trapped the heat of the fire. God bless both of you! Géza
I enjoyed the video Lonnie. With all Do respect... that same company offers a product called the “survival poncho”. It does defeat the multipurpose element, yet could save calories. I’d still carry the two 2-person heat sheets blankets as they are great! If you agree, we’d love to see a review or update with the poncho. If you can’t find any ponchos, I’d have no problem sending one. Thanks for the useful info Lonnie, I actually learned a lot, which I never thought of. 😊
The poncho does look like it could be a great item but I like the versatility of the blankets. I like being able to use them with a fire which opens up a whole different level of usefulness.
What a nice video. Thanks so much man. I put the mylar blanket in between the top covers on my bed because I was freezing in the basement. Then I was toasty warm. It does make some condensation tho. I can't wait to try it out outside by the bonfire. :D I'm stoked. Thanks again.
You know a lot more about insulation and thermodynamics than I expected! I’m impressed! I figured this would just be a bush craft practitioner’s guesswork based on observations, but you’ve actually studied this. You earned another subscriber: me. I like to subscribe to knowledgeable peoples’ channels.
I love how Lonnie’s favorite brand of space blanket is SOL. As in “If you find yourself in a situation where you really need this to survive, you’re SOL”!
Hi Phreshayr, I cant find those sol heat sheets anywhere in this town. So I got those cheap ones and a see thru plastic sheet for a super shelter. I got that idea from one of your videos.Thanks for the life saving info
We are praying for you Lonnie and Connie and all the other Alaskan people I have alot of freinds in alaska. Also are you only doing videos once a month now? I enjoy watching you, I am a survival, bushcraft instructor for mountain and desert areas, I always recommend my students watch your channel, God bless you and all the Alaskan people.
My goal is still once a week but I seldom am achieving that goal lately. Thanks for sharing the channel with others of like interest. I really appreciate that. We are fine after the earthquake. Thanks for the concern. See the short earthquake update video If you have not already seen it for an update.
I love your videos, very interesting and informative. Ive used your video to show people how to use a space blanket that didn't want to believe me. Apparently your much more convincing than I am.
Blizzard blankets are a quilted space blanket. They have a 2 or 3 layer product. It's bulkier than the sol product nut I would take it over the SOL. Well done video. To bad you didn't have a thermal camera to show your effects. Maybe for Christmas. Cheers.
as a former resident of the city of Christchurch here in NZ I know what you guys live with in the constant threat of earthquakes, i wish you all the best.
Thank you for taking your time to help others. This world needs more people like you sharing the 💗.. Love.. ☀Keep on shining your shine Sir.. Were taking note
Very cool... great info.... in doing this you may save a life. Get strong reusable space blankets ... the cheap ones rip easily... bigger the better... SOL is brilliant, i like there extra large emergency bivvy bag... cheers from NZ...
glad you're making videos again have enjoyed them for several years many items you talk about my uncle talk me as he was an instructor for the 101st Airborne
Insulators restrict trasfer of energy. Conductors allow transfer of energy. Reflectors reflect energy back. On our trips we use these emergency blankets to line the ceiling and walls of our camps. To restrict the infiltration of the elements and to reflect the heat back on us.
Great stuff! Space blankets are very useful but not as most people think they're used. Draped loosely they're much better. They make a great fire reflector/tarp as well.
Nice to see a new vid. Hope you and Connie are faring well after the quake. Lonnie....the set up you had with the fire, would if be any advantage to set the other blanket up directly across from you, as well?
Yes we are fine. Thanks for the concern. See the short earthquake update video If you have not already seen it for an update. Yes having another blanket on the far side of the fire would make a micro environment that would assist in raising the heat level in that immediate area in part due to by slowing down air exchange.
You very well might have saved some lives with this video. Also, it looks like the 2-person blanket is even not quite sufficient for even one man. The manufactures need to make them larger and square rather than rectangular...probably a minimum of 10x10 ft. If that seems too big, consider that it's 5 foot up on side and 5 foot up the other with an arch around the shoulders and head. A 12x12 would probably be perfect. Thanks Lonnie and Connie!
I reached out to SOL a couple weeks ago. They said that, at least for the sport utility blanket, the material comes in 5 foot widths and they have chosen not to make larger ones due to added production costs. They would like a bigger one but need to make sure there is a market for it. I encourage all to reach out and let them know you would like a larger size.
One problem with larger SOL blankets is the increased folded size. Anything bigger than the two person model as shown is that when packaged it starts to become too big for pocket carry. Now I know people will say, "Carry it in a "BOB" or "GOOD" bag, in which case size is not as important, but I in my experience, I carry this type of blanket in my back pocket, along with some cordage, and anything larger than the two person size is not pratical for EDC.
Thank you for this video and addressing the science of it. I tried to explain to my brother In law that an emergency blanket doesn’t work as insulating a hammock and he is doing it anyway. I’ll send him this video and maybe he will listen to you.
Great video. So many people carry the space blanket but few know what to do with it. What also works great is to place the space blanket under all your clothes but the t-shirt or first layer. If you put it on diamond shape, a corner on top, then you put one corner around your head/neck and held on by a hat/hood, the two next corners go around the arms to the elbows under the jacket layer, and then the bottom corner covers most of your back/torso. Extremely warm and its biggest drawback is you tend to sweat if you are moving around.
Good to see someone pointing out the limitations of the space blanket. Calling something a 'heat sheet' when it reflects back only a tiny percentage of body heat while conducting the rest away very quickly is pretty misleading. As a fire reflector/windbreak I can see it's value but it's nothing like as good as a warm sleeping bag and mat. The idea of using just a space blanket to treat hypothermia is a joke. If people who blindly trust these things realised that maybe they'd plan more carefully and carry really effective gear, even though it's heavier.
Best thing is to carry enough Para cordage to lash together a swamp bed and a build a way to place a space blanket about 4 to 6 inches below and on about 12inches above and around your body. Spruce or other evergreen boughs as a mattress on the swamp bed.
Excellent video. This is the very first video I’ve seen that explains the way heat behaves. A person’s life very much depends on their knowledge. This information could mean the difference for someone. Thanks for making this video. 👍🏻👍🏻
The human body generates about as much heat as a 100 watt light bulb. Properly managed and conserved, that will go a long way towards keeping you pretty warm. Thanks for your recommendation on the best space blanket. I always thought the mylar was far too flimsy.
Manufacturers give the impression that if you wrap one around you and it will save your life, maybe they should watch this video and they can learn the facts from an expert who uses them. Thank you for this video and greetings from the UK and hope you are all safe and well.
Hey, you two in Alaska, thanks again for another possibility of learning. I already needed a spaceblanket when I was forced to stay overnight in the mountains. Since then I carry two of them. The tips of creating necessary isolation (air), covering the head and keeping off windchill will save lives. Take care, greetings from germany, Ralf
Thank you so much for such an excellent explanation! I got some mylar blankets for the ditch bag in my sailboat, and now thanks to you, I know how to use them properly. :)
As a kid, camping was my escape. Even in the winter. The sleeping bag I had was not even close to adequate for winter in Utah where I lived. I bought a cheap space blanket and wrapped it around my sleeping bag, then wrapped a tarp around that. That combination was enough to keep me comfortable in the winter and still enjoy my camping.
SOL is mediocre at best. Regardless, excluding the super gucci manufactures ( im yet to see an ultra high-end space blanket) this is considered one of the better ones on the market. It's similar to a cheap traditional tarp.
Very informative as always. I have had several situations in Washington state and Pennsylvania where I had rig up cold weather shelters and I never had a space blanket! Going to get a couple of them to add to my gear now.
Great ideas Lonnie!!! Hope alls well with the earthquake.....I've got a silly question, if you were in a survival situation in the heat, do you think you could you use it silver side out to reflect the heat ?.............Just wondering........ Hope you guys are ok up there. Thanks :>)>
Yes we are fine. Thanks for the concern. See the short earthquake update video If you have not already seen it for an update. Yes the mylar excels as a radiant heat reflector. So it would work very well at reflecting solar heat as well. BUT again you would not want to wrap it closely around your body because that solar heat would be conducted right through the material into whatever it was touching. It would be best to raise it above the body in a manor that it would not only reflect the sun but would provide shade and allow breezes to blow through. Place it like a flat tarp roof above where you will be.
Great video, I have done a similar set up but I heated some water and put it in a nalgene bottle in my coat, also I've used a nalgene with hot water in my sleeping bag. Works great. Thanks again for your time and hard work producing these videos.
We live in a Colorado mountain town and spend a lot of time hiking, snowshoeing, and Nordic skiing. We always keep a couple of space blankets in our pack, even when only going for a short day hike, carrying a small lumbar pack. Thank you SO much for the recommendation of the best choice, as well as great tips on reflecting campfire heat in a winter survival scenario. Now to add a few rubber bands to my pack . . . 😁
I’m a farmer and I use these blankets on sick livestock, mostly calves. A hot water bottle, a bed of straw and a space blanket wrapped around them revives sick calves every time.
@Dawne41 I'm not sure but ,if anyone else trying to find out
canned food survival
try Franaar Spies Control Formula (do a search on google ) ? Ive heard some interesting things about it and my brother in law got excellent results with it.
@@marianellaramirez7046 wtf r u blabbering abouf
@@zoeygraceg be nice
I would have a few hard candies and a couple of tea candles in my kit.
I could put one candle between my
legs and wrap those space blankets around me. Tea candles burn for about 5 hours so two would get me through a cold night.
Heat on the outside heat on the inside.
Great video on how to use a Space blanket. I was on a hiking trip once when a cold front past through. Came across a couple that had put all their faith in a space blanket to protect them. The problem was they didn’t know how to use it and it wasn’t big enough to cover both of them. Got a fire going warmed them up and got them back to the trail head. To many people throw stuff into their back pack with no idea how to use it. My wife use to think it was funny that I would camp in the back yard to test stuff before going out. Now she understands why.
I used to liken it to the other half trying a new outfit/shoes on before wearing them for a night out,
You see what works with what, make sure stuff does its job as intended and is comfortable enough to endure.
I am smarter now than I was 17 minutes ago. Thank you Lonnie, I always learn something from your videos
Best Comment! I always feel smarter after watching Lonnie!
I'm not convinced that you are smarter but you are certainly better informed.
I’ve had by life saved twice by space blankets.
First time was in Chicago when my freightliner broke down during a blizzard with 10 below temps. I used both of my blankets with the space blanket in between. 6 hours later when the tow truck finally arrived he had to wake me up, because I was sleeping comfortably in the bunk.
Second was in Beach, ND. Same truck blew a coolant line it was 20 below, but I had my trusty space blanket and with the addition of a heated mattress pad I was able to get a good nights sleep.
To this day I always have at least 1 space blanket and 2 or 3 regular blankets and a heated mattress pad in my big rig just in case.
in an emergency newspaper in between the blankets works quite well also
You've had some real adventures. You were prepared. That makes all the difference. I think the tow driver was less comfortable than you.
Now all you need is a more reliable truck lol
Space blankets saved my life, casually mentions heated mattres and three other blankets! Lol
NoGlockTrucker 😂 this was the dumbest thing I’ve heard it didn’t save your life it just kept you warm you would have been fine.
Good explanation on the laws of thermodynamics. These blankets aren't lifesavers, but the knowledge of how to use them is. Well taught.
I'm not arguing or being a dick but i think that's exactly what they are.. lifesavers. obviously if it's 4 degrees, you're F'd but if it's 30 or 40, it'll keep you from getting hypothermic (according to the dictionary, i made that word up!).. like i said, justa thought. hope i never have to open mine to find out!
@@morrisadams539 - Point taken and I'm going to say you're right. If, for some reason, I find myself soaking wet in 30°-40° Fahrenheit, yes, I'll use the relective mylar. Without it, what are my odds if I don't get a heat source. I've been hypothermic before. As a teen I fell through ice in a shallow creek. I was up to my chest, the air temperature was 26°. Fortunately, I was a quarter of a mile from home. First came the shivers, then, for me, the hands went, paralysis of fingers and toes. After that a warm, giddy feeling came over me, much like laughing gas from the dentist. My friends made sure my parents knew what happened. Half of what happened I don't remember, but from what I was told. It sneaks up quickly and after the initial pain it's like having hypoglycemia. I'm diabetic.
@@fredthorne9692 and to that point, i think the odds of being soaking wet in 30-40 degree weather is very high versus 4 degrees. if we have to hoof-it in zero-teens, we're in a mess! getting wet is pretty much a guarantee!! take care.
Because people doesn't use common sense that is pitched often by survivalists enough. Its easier to say that space blankets are for trapping pockets of warm ar, and is useless without empty pockets of air like if you wrap your finger and touch snow.
@@morrisadams539 It's like wearing rain gear in pouring rain at 40 degree temps. You just sweat.
Good stuff.
I just bought a 80% wool shipping blanket and spray mounted a space blanket on each side. Interior for reflecting radiant heat the wool for insulation and exterior for water resistance. So far it's been a good performer.
Harbor Freight has some pretty cheap ones that are 80%. Only about $20. But they stink like machine oil. A good was with lots of detergent and air dry and it will be good. They lose a lot of lose material that first wash, but after that they are good. Got one in my bug out bag.
You mentioned "... I just bought a 80% wool shipping blanket and spray mounted a space blanket on each side. Interior for reflecting radiant heat the wool for insulation and exterior for water resistance..."
What is a spray mounted space blanket?
aerosol spray adhesive, he glued the space blanket to the wool blanket
That's pretty smart!
Good stuff I use a Arcturus survival blanket with my poncho liner.
I purchased one of the original space blankets back in the early 70s and took it instead of a sleeping bag on a bicycle camping trip to the Oregon coast, I froze my ass off. :-) A classic learning experience.
Unfortunately you and RUclips weren't available back then.
Keep up the good work.
I bet it took 24 hours for morning to arrive. Ha! At least it seemed that way I assume.
I did a similar thing in 1980, but used them for a tent. On top of snow. I had a sleeping bag but still felt lucky to be alive after 3 hrs. Luckily had a plan B!
you didn't really do that, did you???
That was because, as Lonnie explained, conduction leeches the heat from your body, so the blanket can't really be in contact, you need space. The blanket works as a reflector of your body heat through radiation, contact with your body turns into conductive heat loss.
I did the same thing in the ‘80’s as a teenager. I believed the advertising that said ‘reflects 90% of radiated heat’ and thought I’d be too warm in it! That night taught me the difference between radiation and conduction...
Finnish Defence Forces taught us to tuck the blanket inside the clothes and helmet as a part of treating the battlefield wounded in sub-zero, preserving core temps of the wounded fighter gives him much more survival time, even while laying on frozen ground (you can actually lay there for quite a while and still be all warm and fuzzy). That heat-shield method looks great if you are still capable of acting on your own, building a fire etc. I always carry one with me.
Just to second Lonnie here. Don't cheap out on this even though you might think it's just a piece foil. A cheap one easily tears to shreds, is leaf-thin, clings to itself and most likely too small. You don't want to sit there wet and freezing, pulling it on with shaky hands and ending up tearing it up and noticing how bad it is. Looking back you cheaped out on it and never pulled it out of the bag to inspect it's usability. While these are generally cheap, you're much better off bying the 10€ one instead of the 2€ one.
A cheap one may be better for very small kits though. They don't take up as much space.
Have followed you for many years. Your generous spirit still warms my soul.
So wholesome
Thank you Lonny! Love your channel! I'm a homeless government whistleblower. Our homeless camp is very warm & comfortable. I bought 30 of the good heavy duty ER+ Everready Fort Aid Mylar blankets @ 10 for $15. OD green. Preparing to make a video. Haven't picked out a good camera yet. I do have on video on my channel but I'm re-recording it because I rambled about our investigation.
I've used these too. They are really great as a reflector behind you for the campfire as he showed. I could notice a definite feeling of heat hitting me from behind while sitting in front of the fire.
not sure why im in this part of youtube, but this was a useful tip.
Was it nice to see a simple video experience? Instead of idiots doing dumb things? Yelling "smash that like button, and subscribe, check out my Instagram Twitter Facebook and Patreon. Please comment below". Then they jam 9 ads in a 15min video.
Here's a tip for you. bring a couple contractor trash bags. Contractor bags are longer. Fill two with evergreen boughs, needles, or leaves. One to lay or sit on, one to cover up with. Lawn and leaf bags work but it'will take more to be completely covered. Six inches of air tight loft provides incredible insulation.
surprised I've never heard this before. This is an AMAZING understanding!
thank you :)
It's lightweight, compact, and utilizes indigenous materials you don't need to pack in. The plastic isolates bugs and pitch. Poke a few holes in the top of the bottom cushion to prevent moisture buildup.
I have used the plastic bags for 55 gallon drums that are 3 mils thick. They are very spacious and very heavy. Thanks for your tip!
@@MrFmiller Those bags are gold out there, instant tent potential to.
At a pinch any heavy duty garden refuse bag will work. Contractor bags are the best but I carry a roll of 25 of the garden ones in winter in the car.
always keep a few in my bag or car, so small but very versatile. i tried a tent made of space blanket material and i could really feel the difference from the temperature outdoors, thank you for sharing your experience it really reinforces the several thin layers of clothing to trap air concept.
This saved my life up in elk mtn CO i put a wall around me with 3 space blankets and then i put 3 others on the opposite side of my fire. And it was almost to hot. It was -7 F that night.
Yeah I always carry extras of the little pocket foil ones just for that along with the 1 and 2 person SOL ones I also carry a small wool blend or fleece blanket or my military poncho liner for extra warmth and the heavy duty emergency blanket because redundancy can save your butt.
excellent! real life application.. no substitute!
The fire may have helped too. ;)
If you seal it completely in 0 degrees it will get very hot
this blanket saved me and my dogs life up on a mountain in Idaho. one thing I'd like to add is the confirmation from wrapping urself in this I was warm yes but perspiration had made a puddle inside the blanket by morning luckily the sun was back and I could get a fire going otherwise waking up warm but wet coming out of that blanket could have serious consequences so remember to intermittently burp ur wrap as to not retain water vapor.
There's mountains in Idaho?
FuckingYellow, yes dear. We've lots of Mountains in Idaho. Had 'em for years.
@@fuckingyellow4125 beautiful mountains.
A few farts should dry it right out.
What is your technique for burping your wrap without losing too much heat. I figure you have a highly efficient technique thought out
Nice to see you back! Please tell Connie we are still enjoying her baked sliced apples with butter and cinnamon. Recently we tried adding a sliced banana to the apples.. as it cooks the banana literally melts into the apples and adds a natural sweetness. These ‘space’ blankets are intriguing in what they do, and don’t do. Good video!
One of my favorite channels, thanks for not bombarding them with ads. Great info from a true wise man.
13:43 ... thats true!. This is why draping sheets from the roof poles, and living on the inside bit in a yurt helps. The 4" air gap between the wall and suspended sheet is what keeps the cold out. Nice ideas, all the best.
every second of your video holds valuable information, I haven't found another survival expert on your level, you make all the other youtube experts look like children with toys in their cool backpacks running around in the playground making sandcastles.
Thanks Lonnie and Connie!
It was in the early 70's that I first used an "NRC space blanket". My brother in law and I were just on a backpacking hike and the weather was in the 20's F. After pitching our tent. We just hung the space blanket like Lonnie did, and built a small fire. In no time we were sitting there comfortably drinking coffee in our shirt sleeves and were very comfortable from the reflective radiant heat. They work !!! May God bless you & Connie.
I don't ever expect to be caught in out in the cold, but I've got these SOL space blankets everywhere on that outside chance that I may. Thanks for showing me how to use them for the best results, Lonnie!
I have always wondered how these worked. I will now be getting a few to add to my emergency kit that I have in my car. I drive long distance during the winter and this may one day come in handy. Thank you for all the videos the two of you make. I find them very helpful.
So really what I'm getting from you is that my dad was always right about keeping those frigging rubber bands?
I want you to know how much I appreciate your videos as they are most informative.Thanks.
It's still useful as ground cover as a vapor and moisture barrier, while still reflecting heat. I used one as ground cover AND inside my sleeping bag. The layers inside my sleeping bag consisted of: sleeping bag, space blanket, thin wool blanket, my sleepwear, then me. I layered these things like crazy one homeless winter with clothing, sleeping gear and perimeter barriers (for instance, hanging over me like a close-quarter tent while I slept, or used to reflect heat back from the campfire as you did) to survive in 30 below zero weather conditions. Keep in mind, they not only reflect heat, but can act as a windbreaker and as a moisture/evaporative barrier. In a pinch they can be used for a ton of other purposes - for signaling or for markers, wrapping things (food, etc), rain protection or collection, etc. They are a great, small and lightweight multi-purpose item to have in your survival kit.
Thank you for this. Very clear and backed up with science, winner! I appreciate you and your good lady (and your doggy) hanging around in the snow in order to help the rest of us. Cheers Man.
I hope this finds you all safe and sound. You mentioned the use of the space blanket in a tent. When I hiked the AT I used a space blanket under my tent as a moisture barrier and it worked quite well for that.
Hands down, one of the best survival channels on RUclips. Thanks in part to the fact that he isn't trying to sell garbage trinkets for ad dollars. Nope! This guy is truthful and honest.
Great survival item, as the sound of one being unfolded can be heard 30 miles away and will draw any fellow outdoorsperson to your location, as they know you're in trouble if you using this
Or they'll think you have enough chips to spare and come calling.
I have recently found your channel. I cannot get enough of your great tutorials and stories. I have recently started hiking and camping and I have found your knowledge to be awesome. Thank you so much.
Glad you are enjoying the videos and glad you are here. Welcome to the channel.
I wish I had seen this video 4 years ago when I started hammock camping. I brought a space blanket for an insulating layer, and froze my butt off! Now I know why. lol. Thanks and God Bless to you both.
The only way this may work well is under the hammock draped maybe 6-8" below making a separate air pocket that will also help radiate your heat back up.
In construction, all these radiant barriers require an "air gap" to function properly. Used as a foilbacked foam thermal brake, for proper radiation blocking you need a gap between the foil side and finishing materials. Furring strips typically accomplish this.
@@AnythingOutdoorswithSteve Yeah, Steve, I bought an underquilt that does exactly what you have described. It creates that air gap you talked about. Thanks for the comment buddy.
Only kind I buy. Thanks to you...years ago. Glad you and Connie are safe and sound.
Hoping all is well in your camp --- quite the shaker today for us this morning!!! Always a good wake up call for preparedness.
Yes we are fine. Thanks for the concern. See the short earthquake update video If you have not already seen it for an update.
i was one of those dummies who thought that space blankets were the big life saver,but after watching your video i have had to reavaluate my thinking.i will probably never need to use a foil blanket,but if i do at least now i can greatly increase my chance of survival.
A big fluffy puppy is also good for keeping warm. 🐶
And, feed yer dog chili! That'll work....
I always say a rub down with a warm kitten works wonders.
FourDollaRacin. Unfortunately that may have side effects.
Kitti McFurface homeless people in the UK keep dogs to sleep with to keep warm in there sleeping bags .
3 Dog Night
Good job sir. A word to the Wise for those who haven't used a space blanket: many brands are very cheap and rip easily! Buy a heavier gauge and the larger size. Oh, and they are very loud!!!
This is great information. Thank you. Space Blankets, here we come!
You are a true outdoorsman!
I have used space blankets for its purpose a few times. I have also used them as a fire reflector and emergency tarp. Excellent piece of kit and for the price/size, everyone should have a couple on them in the woods.
Lost my tent, sleeping bag soaked, everything wet, raining steadily in winter. Wrapped myself in the space blanket, and put my poncho liner over the top. Kept me warm and dry sitting on a log til daylight.
Given theyre cheap and easy to carry why wouldnt you have one around...
Very informative! I wouldve never thought a space blanket could be so useful because they're so thin. I'm definitely gonna get a few just to have on hand in the car and my camping and hiking supplies. Great video!
Merry Christmas Lonnie and Connie. Hope you have a wonderful Christmas. 🧡
Great explanation of trapping heat. Thanks. This video will help keep people alive who are willing to learn.
good tips on space blankets on what they can and can not do....I have the 2 person SOL blanket along with a military wool blanket in my truck just in case of a break downs in the winter months (it's there all year round) thanks for sharing this video
Pardon a newbie question: What does SOL (if the answer is 's___ out of luck,' then don't respond. Otherwise, I'm truly interested. Thanks! : )
good question SOL is a company that makes survive stuff SOL Survive Outdoors Longer here is link to their stuff, they make better than average survival gear on a budget www.surviveoutdoorslonger.com/
Thank you for the informative video Lonnie! Back in the past I made a video where I used the cheap space blanket behind the camp chair. I made a fire in front of me. The blanket blocked the wind and trapped the heat of the fire.
God bless both of you!
Géza
I enjoyed the video Lonnie. With all Do respect... that same company offers a product called the “survival poncho”. It does defeat the multipurpose element, yet could save calories. I’d still carry the two 2-person heat sheets blankets as they are great! If you agree, we’d love to see a review or update with the poncho. If you can’t find any ponchos, I’d have no problem sending one. Thanks for the useful info Lonnie, I actually learned a lot, which I never thought of. 😊
The poncho does look like it could be a great item but I like the versatility of the blankets. I like being able to use them with a fire which opens up a whole different level of usefulness.
What a nice video. Thanks so much man. I put the mylar blanket in between the top covers on my bed because I was freezing in the basement. Then I was toasty warm. It does make some condensation tho. I can't wait to try it out outside by the bonfire. :D I'm stoked. Thanks again.
Your always full of good tips and ideas! Great info Brother!
You know a lot more about insulation and thermodynamics than I expected! I’m impressed! I figured this would just be a bush craft practitioner’s guesswork based on observations, but you’ve actually studied this. You earned another subscriber: me. I like to subscribe to knowledgeable peoples’ channels.
Welcome to the channel and thanks for the sub.
Unequivocally, yes. A space blanket saved my father and my lives.
You're real and full of knowledge. I enjoy your videos very much and learn a lot!
I love how Lonnie’s favorite brand of space blanket is SOL.
As in “If you find yourself in a situation where you really need this to survive, you’re SOL”!
That would be SOOL. :O)
Your videos are definitely worth following...every one of them has been so beneficial. Thank you!
Hi Phreshayr, I cant find those sol heat sheets anywhere in this town. So I got those cheap ones and a see thru plastic sheet for a super shelter. I got that idea from one of your videos.Thanks for the life saving info
100% better than nothing.. which is zero%.
When I start one of your videos. I automatically hit the like button! Cuz I know its gonna be good!
We are praying for you Lonnie and Connie and all the other Alaskan people I have alot of freinds in alaska. Also are you only doing videos once a month now? I enjoy watching you, I am a survival, bushcraft instructor for mountain and desert areas, I always recommend my students watch your channel, God bless you and all the Alaskan people.
My goal is still once a week but I seldom am achieving that goal lately. Thanks for sharing the channel with others of like interest. I really appreciate that.
We are fine after the earthquake. Thanks for the concern. See the short earthquake update video If you have not already seen it for an update.
I love your videos, very interesting and informative. Ive used your video to show people how to use a space blanket that didn't want to believe me. Apparently your much more convincing than I am.
Blizzard blankets are a quilted space blanket. They have a 2 or 3 layer product. It's bulkier than the sol product nut I would take it over the SOL.
Well done video. To bad you didn't have a thermal camera to show your effects. Maybe for Christmas.
Cheers.
Brilliant advice I would have just wrapped it around me .(wrong) now I know how to use one .I thought I did but I was wrong .this guy is great .
Hope you made through that quake!!!
Yes we are fine. Thanks for the concern. See the short earthquake update video If you have not already seen it for an update.
as a former resident of the city of Christchurch here in NZ I know what you guys live with in the constant threat of earthquakes, i wish you all the best.
Thank you for taking your time to help others. This world needs more people like you sharing the 💗.. Love.. ☀Keep on shining your shine Sir.. Were taking note
Very cool... great info.... in doing this you may save a life. Get strong reusable space blankets ... the cheap ones rip easily... bigger the better... SOL is brilliant, i like there extra large emergency bivvy bag... cheers from NZ...
So a person really needs 2 of these to be efficient in extreme frigid temps. Thanks for a great video.
Hope everything is ok with the earthquake. Praying for you all.
Did he get hit by the quake?!
Yes we are fine. Thanks for the concern. See the short earthquake update video If you have not already seen it for an update.
glad you're making videos again have enjoyed them for several years many items you talk about my uncle talk me as he was an instructor for the 101st Airborne
Insulators restrict trasfer of energy. Conductors allow transfer of energy. Reflectors reflect energy back. On our trips we use these emergency blankets to line the ceiling and walls of our camps. To restrict the infiltration of the elements and to reflect the heat back on us.
Great stuff! Space blankets are very useful but not as most people think they're used. Draped loosely they're much better. They make a great fire reflector/tarp as well.
Nice to see a new vid. Hope you and Connie are faring well after the quake. Lonnie....the set up you had with the fire, would if be any advantage to set the other blanket up directly across from you, as well?
Yes we are fine. Thanks for the concern. See the short earthquake update video If you have not already seen it for an update.
Yes having another blanket on the far side of the fire would make a micro environment that would assist in raising the heat level in that immediate area in part due to by slowing down air exchange.
Awesome video and great idea Lonnie, praying you and Connie are safe!
You very well might have saved some lives with this video. Also, it looks like the 2-person blanket is even not quite sufficient for even one man. The manufactures need to make them larger and square rather than rectangular...probably a minimum of 10x10 ft. If that seems too big, consider that it's 5 foot up on side and 5 foot up the other with an arch around the shoulders and head. A 12x12 would probably be perfect. Thanks Lonnie and Connie!
I agree......something like 8 ft x 8 ft at a minimum would be much more versatile and have many more uses....12 x 12 would build a proper shelter
I reached out to SOL a couple weeks ago. They said that, at least for the sport utility blanket, the material comes in 5 foot widths and they have chosen not to make larger ones due to added production costs. They would like a bigger one but need to make sure there is a market for it. I encourage all to reach out and let them know you would like a larger size.
One problem with larger SOL blankets is the increased folded size. Anything bigger than the two person model as shown is that when packaged it starts to become too big for pocket carry. Now I know people will say, "Carry it in a "BOB" or "GOOD" bag, in which case size is not as important, but I in my experience, I carry this type of blanket in my back pocket, along with some cordage, and anything larger than the two person size is not pratical for EDC.
I was picturing using Gorilla tape, before packing it, to make a big cone out of it (even if it took more than one) leaving the opening for the face.
Thank you for this video and addressing the science of it.
I tried to explain to my brother In law that an emergency blanket doesn’t work as insulating a hammock and he is doing it anyway.
I’ll send him this video and maybe he will listen to you.
Great video. So many people carry the space blanket but few know what to do with it.
What also works great is to place the space blanket under all your clothes but the t-shirt or first layer. If you put it on diamond shape, a corner on top, then you put one corner around your head/neck and held on by a hat/hood, the two next corners go around the arms to the elbows under the jacket layer, and then the bottom corner covers most of your back/torso. Extremely warm and its biggest drawback is you tend to sweat if you are moving around.
I had no idea how to use one properly, thanks a bunch.
Good to see someone pointing out the limitations of the space blanket. Calling something a 'heat sheet' when it reflects back only a tiny percentage of body heat while conducting the rest away very quickly is pretty misleading. As a fire reflector/windbreak I can see it's value but it's nothing like as good as a warm sleeping bag and mat. The idea of using just a space blanket to treat hypothermia is a joke. If people who blindly trust these things realised that maybe they'd plan more carefully and carry really effective gear, even though it's heavier.
Best thing is to carry enough Para cordage to lash together a swamp bed and a build a way to place a space blanket about 4 to 6 inches below and on about 12inches above and around your body.
Spruce or other evergreen boughs as a mattress on the swamp bed.
Excellent video.
This is the very first video I’ve seen that explains the way heat behaves. A person’s life very much depends on their knowledge. This information could mean the difference for someone.
Thanks for making this video.
👍🏻👍🏻
Bro.......Good info, very helpful
It begs the question so I gotta ask
Since it's Lonnie & Connie......do have a son named Johnnie?
And a daughter named Bonnie. . . NOT :0)
Actually it's got to be 'Ronnie' short form of Veronica!
Always good to learn new things. In the Uk we dont have the woodland you do but its still enjoyable to test yourself. Thanks
The human body generates about as much heat as a 100 watt light bulb. Properly managed and conserved, that will go a long way towards keeping you pretty warm. Thanks for your recommendation on the best space blanket. I always thought the mylar was far too flimsy.
Thanks for explaining the subtleties of using those crinkly space blankets! Keep it up.
..hey, you two, been waiting for a new vid from you..good info, thanks..
Manufacturers give the impression that if you wrap one around you and it will save your life, maybe they should watch this video and they can learn the facts from an expert who uses them. Thank you for this video and greetings from the UK and hope you are all safe and well.
Praying for your guys safety... I hope you weren't effected by the earthquake
Yes we are fine. Thanks for the concern. See the short earthquake update video If you have not already seen it for an update.
@@Far-North-Bushcraft-Survival I already watched it.. great ti see both of you are safe
Hey, you two in Alaska, thanks again for another possibility of learning. I already needed a spaceblanket when I was forced to stay overnight in the mountains. Since then I carry two of them. The tips of creating necessary isolation (air), covering the head and keeping off windchill will save lives. Take care, greetings from germany, Ralf
I'd snuggle with the dog LOL.
Thank you so much for such an excellent explanation! I got some mylar blankets for the ditch bag in my sailboat, and now thanks to you, I know how to use them properly. :)
If you're not a science teacher, you're missing your calling.
Thank you kindly Sir as i have always wondered just how useful these blankets were. Have a great week to you and family
This guy is so lucky he was distracted at 7:40 cause a black bear just walked up right to him
Yeah, the one that looked like a dog.
As a kid, camping was my escape. Even in the winter. The sleeping bag I had was not even close to adequate for winter in Utah where I lived. I bought a cheap space blanket and wrapped it around my sleeping bag, then wrapped a tarp around that. That combination was enough to keep me comfortable in the winter and still enjoy my camping.
I’m not sure that “S.O.L.” survival gear would inspire a lot of confidence with me.
Lol, saw it last night in Target.
Shit out of luck
Pretty sure it's supposed to be "Sol", Spanish for "Sun", which is pretty warm
SOL is mediocre at best. Regardless, excluding the super gucci manufactures ( im yet to see an ultra high-end space blanket) this is considered one of the better ones on the market. It's similar to a cheap traditional tarp.
You don't want to SURVIVE OUTDOORS LONGER??
Haha
Very informative as always. I have had several situations in Washington state and Pennsylvania where I had rig up cold weather shelters and I never had a space blanket! Going to get a couple of them to add to my gear now.
Great ideas Lonnie!!! Hope alls well with the earthquake.....I've got a silly question, if you were in a survival situation in the heat, do you think you could you use it silver side out to reflect the heat ?.............Just wondering........ Hope you guys are ok up there. Thanks :>)>
Yes we are fine. Thanks for the concern. See the short earthquake update video If you have not already seen it for an update.
Yes the mylar excels as a radiant heat reflector. So it would work very well at reflecting solar heat as well. BUT again you would not want to wrap it closely around your body because that solar heat would be conducted right through the material into whatever it was touching. It would be best to raise it above the body in a manor that it would not only reflect the sun but would provide shade and allow breezes to blow through. Place it like a flat tarp roof above where you will be.
@@Far-North-Bushcraft-Survival Thanks for taking the time to answer my question Lonnie ATB :>)>
Great video, I have done a similar set up but I heated some water and put it in a nalgene bottle in my coat, also I've used a nalgene with hot water in my sleeping bag. Works great. Thanks again for your time and hard work producing these videos.
I use stainless steel water bottles and do teh same thing as you are saying. Awesome heat source.
JUST HEARD ALASKA JUST HAD BIG EARTH QUAKE,
PRAY TO GOD YOU TWO ARE FINE AND DANDY.
Crazyhorse AZ we felt that earthquake in north eastern British Columbia must have been a good one
Yes we are fine. Thanks for the concern. See the short earthquake update video If you have not already seen it for an update.
We live in a Colorado mountain town and spend a lot of time hiking, snowshoeing, and Nordic skiing. We always keep a couple of space blankets in our pack, even when only going for a short day hike, carrying a small lumbar pack. Thank you SO much for the recommendation of the best choice, as well as great tips on reflecting campfire heat in a winter survival scenario. Now to add a few rubber bands to my pack . . . 😁
We'll was going to be original and mention the earthquake, but, too late
Anyway, great video, I use all SOL products
Found you on accident. really enjoyed the video and what I learned. Cannot wait to see some of your other stuff.
Glad you found the channel here and enjoyed the video. Welcome to the channel.
Remember: when you buy a survival blanket, also buy some earplugs!
Why
Why, so when your wife yells at you again for buying more survival gear?
Also duct tape to hold them where you want them and patch them.
Very useful, thanks. I have some of those cheap ones, the bag, the poncho, and the blanket. Using all three at once allows for air circulation.