Primitive Camping & Bushcraft

In this episode we are sitting under the tarp at Camp What The Heck with the fire working in the background and talking about something small that becomes a big deal fast in the woods your light
Chris tells the story of a bow hunt in the Mississippi Delta where it got dark fast the mosquitoes were thick the woods went dead quiet and something in the water let out a roar so deep it made every hair stand up
For a minute it felt like hog trouble or worse and he had no sidearm and no...

Show notes

Today’s focus: Backcountry calories, simple meal planning, and faith for “daily bread.”

From the book: Primitive Camping & Bushcraft, p.182 (dehydrated/freeze-dried options, flavor add-ons).

Why calories matter: Field burn ≈ 3,500–5,000/day vs ~2,000 at home; shivering, climbs, paddling all spike needs.

Pack by calories, not meals: Target ~120 cal/oz (peanut butter, nuts, olive oil, granola, jerky, calorie-dense rations).

4 rules for the field:

Eat by the clock (adrenaline hides hunger)

Fat is your friend (dense fuel in cold/long treks)

Rotate meals (morale > monotony)<...

I’m sitting under the tarp at Camp What The Heck with the fire going and the smell of fall drifting through the woods. This season isn’t just about cooler nights and deer tracks in the mud—it’s about seeing months of work finally come to life. What started in early spring as an idea to create something real for campers and outdoorsmen is now a full line of freeze-dried meals, fresh-roasted coffee, books, and handmade fire kits launching in just two short weeks.

In this episode, I talk about how those ideas took shape through...

Welcome back to the Primitive Camping & Bushcraft Podcast and another Fundamental Friday around the fire. Today Chris shares how he’s been creating his own freeze-dried meals at home for camping — specifically a homemade beef stroganoff that rivals anything you can buy in a pouch. He walks through every step of the recipe using Thrive Life freeze-dried beef, mushrooms, sour cream powder, and brown gravy mix, all packed into vacuum-sealed bags for the next outdoor trip.

The real twist comes when Chris discovers a game-changing ingredient: ready-to-eat pasta that completely removes the need to cook noodles over the...

When most folks picture campfire cooking, they think of flames licking the pan and sparks flying into the night sky. Looks good, doesn’t it? Problem is, flames lie to you. They burn hot, fast, and uneven. You end up with food that’s black on the outside and raw in the middle. I’ve been there—trust me, I’ve ruined enough meals to learn the hard way.

In this episode, I talk about learning to cook over coals instead of chasing flames. It’s slower, steadier, and a whole lot better once you figure it out. Coals h...

Clean water is one of the most important needs in the outdoors — but not every source is safe to drink straight from. In this episode of the Primitive Camping and Bushcraft Podcast, Chris takes you step by step through pre-filtering methods that remove grit, grime, and debris before you boil or use a commercial filter.

You’ll see how a Campcraft Outdoors filter bag works, why a handkerchief or even a cheap coffee filter can extend the life of your gear, and how a simple K-cup can double as a quick bushcraft water filter. Each method buys you...

On this episode of the Primitive Camping and Bushcraft Podcast, Chris shares a story about camping with his sons when a brand-new stove broke on day one. What started as frustration turned into a lesson in improvisation, open-fire cooking, and teaching his boys to adapt.

Chris also reads from his book Primitive Camping and Bushcraft about “Thinking Outside the Box” and dives into Philippians 4:11–13 to remind us that true strength and contentment don’t come from gear — they come from Christ.

You’ll hear practical tips on redundancy, improvising in the woods, and why practice matters more...

in the final episode of this series, after a full day of primitive camping setup, it’s time for food, fire, and light. In this episode, I’ll show you how I:

Slice and fry Spam for a hearty, easy camp meal.

Clean cookware the simple way with hot water while it’s still on the fire.

Use compact solar lanterns for red light, strobe signaling, and camp illumination.

Improvise a pillow using a tarp bag and extra clothes.

Wrap up camp life with gratitude and the reminder to always...

At Camp Wut Da Heck, with smoke drifting from the fire and Mississippi kites overhead, Chris dives into a lesson every hammock camper eventually learns. He recalls his first cold night in a hammock when comfort quickly turned to misery and explains the science behind convective cooling how moving air under a hammock strips away body heat once insulation is compressed.

From there, Chris unpacks real-world solutions. Under quilts that hang beneath the hammock to trap warmth, three-season quilts for versatility, and budget options like closed-cell foam pads, inflatable pads, reflective pads, even cheap pool floats for...

In Part 3 of our Fundamental Friday series, This episode of Fundamental Friday takes you deeper into the camp setup process—moving from survival basics into evening comfort and cooking. You’ll see step-by-step how I:

Use a gravity-fed water filtration system to purify a gallon of water.

Test out a self-inflating sleeping pad with a wool blanket.

Assemble a portable wood-burning stove for safe camp cooking.

Gather kindling, manage fire safety, and light a controlled blaze with a Bic lighter.

Cook one of my favorite camp meals—Spam in a skil...

on: John 4 — Jesus offers living water that never runs dry

Action step: practice filtering and boiling water, then reflect on what truly quenches your thirst

Resources Mentioned

Book: Primitive Camping and Bushcraft

Facebook Group: Primitive Camping and Bushcraft

Call to Action

Practice filtering and purifying your own water this week

Share your experience in the Facebook group

Reflect on whether you’re drinking from “wells that run dry” or from the source of living water

Explore More from Primitive Camping & Bushcraf...

In Part 2 of our Fundamental Friday series, we move from pack talk to practical fieldcraft. You’ll see how I:

Use American beautyberry as a natural bug repellent and grab elevated pine straw for dry tinder after rain.

Collect creek water, then pre-boil or filter it (quick demo with a GRAYL) for safe drinking.

Evaluate a campsite: distance between trees (12–14 ft), proximity to water, ground conditions, and scanning for widow-makers.

Rig a clean ridgeline using bank line with an overhand loop + toggle (marlinspike hitch), tighten it with a trucker’s hitch, and ad...

Episode Highlights

Hot day under the tarp at Camp Wut-Da-Heck and the focus on knives

Childhood memories with a Swiss Army knife and homemade haversacks

Knife evolution: homemade bed-rail knife, Mora Garberg, BPS Bushcraft II, Mora Companion, Bobcat by Dirt Bound Survival

Field stories: batoning wood, six days of rain, and skinning hogs

Knife accident lesson: respect your blade and carry first aid

Knife maintenance: stones, belts, improvised sharpeners, and strops

Devotion: Hebrews 4:12 — the Word of God is sharper than any two-edged sword

Ac...

This episode kicks off a 4 week Fundamental Friday series by diving deep into my complete primitive camping loadout. You’ll see exactly what I pack, how I organize it, and the reasoning behind every item, including:

Fire redundancy: Ferro rod, Bic lighter, char cloth, and even a pencil sharpener for tinder.

Cutting tools: Belt knife (Mora Garberg), backup knife, multi-tool, and folding saw.

Cooking gear: Bush pot, skillet, wood burning grill, cutting board, and seasoning containers.

Food & drink: Freeze-dried meals, tortillas, powdered milk, trail mix, and drink mixes. 
(if you are...

The sky was heavy with rain clouds as I sat by the fire at camp, listening to the treetops groan in the wind. That sound carried me back to a night on the river when I built a simple lean to shelter from natural materials, never expecting to face a storm. A survival instructor later scoffed online, saying my shelter would never hold water. What he did not see was the storm that raged all night while I stayed warm and dry beneath the leaves.

This episode digs into what that night taught me. Real skill comes...

This week on Fundamental Friday, we’re doing a hands-on comparison of two survival kits—the Entropy Survival Bag and the ESEE Survival Tin kit. From tourniquets and ferro rods to whistles, filters, and emergency blankets, Chris reviews the strengths and weaknesses of each kit to show what’s worth carrying when it counts.

Whether you’re new to bushcraft or refining your emergency loadout, this episode will give you real-world insights on survival gear.

this is the best article on how to use a compass I have seen
Compass Link:  How to Use a Compass...

Show Notes:
Sometimes it only takes one comment to spark deep reflection. A listener recently told me, “You lost me when you got all preachy. That’s not what I signed up for.” I get it. Some folks want nothing but gear talk and survival skills, and believe me, I love that too. But for me, faith isn’t separate from the outdoors. It’s the lens I see it all through.

In this episode, I share two powerful memories from camping along the river: one morning when I realized I wasn’t out there to find God but...

In this episode, I take you out to Camp Wut Da Heck for a hands-on skill session using the All Weather Fire Starter. You’ll see how this tool works, how to use it properly, and why it should be a staple in your outdoor kit. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned camper, this fire starter will help you build a reliable flame in almost any condition.

Check out the All Weather Fire Starter here: https://allweatherfirestarters.com/
Use code speiroutdoors for 10% off your order!

Explore More from Primitive Camping & Bushcraft
A...

In this campfire conversation, I take you through my in-depth review of the Mitzli hammock — a design that eliminates the claustrophobic feel, net-in-your-face annoyance, and cramped sleeping space that turn so many people away from hammock camping. I share how it compares to other hammocks I’ve tried, including $200–$300 models that didn’t deliver, and why the Mitzli’s spacious tent-like interior, quality build, and lifetime warranty won me over. You’ll get all the details on setup, weight, materials, and the rainfly that comes with it.

I also dive into a devotional moment from Psalm 4:8, reminding us that real...

In this heartfelt episode, I open up about why I stepped away from the podcast for a few weeks and how personal challenges have shaped my outlook. We dive into a topic I’ve never covered before — comfort in camp. Are you the type who wants to rough it, or do you bring along creature comforts? I compare backpacking cots like the $50 NatureHike versus the $299 Helinox, break down their pros and cons, and talk about my military cot for ATV or boat-accessible trips. We also explore camp chair options, from budget Walmart models to lightweight high-back chairs, and even doll...

Last week, I wasn’t behind the mic—not because I was tired or lazy, but because I was out in the hills of North Georgia with a group of young men who needed more than content… they needed direction. I was serving with Truth in Nature, a ministry that mentors fatherless boys through outdoor experiences. We built birdhouses, swam in creeks, shot skeet and rifles, and I watched several of those boys give their life to Jesus and get baptized.

That kind of camp—that kind of real—is why I started all of this.

But whil...

In this episode, Chris pulls straight from the Primitive Camping and Bushcraft Facebook group to reflect on the posts, questions, and tips shared by its members. From tarp shelter setups and gear hacks to battling Mississippi mosquitoes and testing DIY fish hooks, it's a gritty mix of story, survival, and spiritual insight. You’ll hear about Rhett’s summer tarp camp, the underrated genius of 10x10 tarps, bush pots and bedrolls, and even freeze-dried meals cooked in a state-licensed restaurant. The episode wraps with a heartfelt devotional from Psalm 51 on repentance, restoration, and the kind of real transformation that only...

When you're deep in the woods and gear breaks down, do you have what you need to patch it up and keep going? In this episode, Chris answers a listener question from the Primitive Camping and Bushcraft Facebook Group about field repair kits. From duct tape on a Bic lighter to sail needles and floral wire, he walks through real tools, real fixes, and why preparation isn't just about survival—it's about staying in the game when things go sideways. Plus, a quick look at the Entropy Survival Go Bag and why it's a solid pick for unexpected situations.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

Step-by-step method for smoking fish in the field without fancy gear

What types of wood are safe for smoking (and what to avoid)

Why Magnolia wood might be one of the most underrated smoking woods for fish

How to build a simple smoking tripod using green saplings and floral wire

The difference between grilling, roasting, and real smoking in a bushcraft setup

Why floral wire is one of the most versatile tools you can pack in your kit

Ho...

In this episode of the Primitive Camping and Bushcraft Podcast, host Chris Speir takes you deep into mosquito season with no fluff and no gimmicks—just real outdoor experience. Broadcasting from under the tarp at Camp Wut-Da-Heck, Chris shares personal stories of getting eaten alive by bugs, the dangers of mosquito-borne illnesses like West Nile and Lyme disease, and his hard-learned lessons from red bug bites and backwoods blunders.

We walk through:

Real risks: West Nile, Zika, Alpha-Gal, and more

Why natural repellents like dog fennel and American beautyberry work—and how to make...

In this episode of the Primitive Camping & Bushcraft Podcast, Chris breaks down practical, field-tested ways to stay clean in the woods. From simple DIY soap paper strips to pack-friendly sponge-based products, this talk covers everything you need to know to wash up when you’re off-grid. The episode also features a brief look at traditional soap-making concepts using lye and fat, and closes with a reflection on spiritual cleansing based on 1 John 1:9.

Topics Covered

Real-world hygiene challenges when camping

Listener question from Clay: “How do you make soap from nothing in the wild?”

M...

In this episode of the Primitive Camping & Bushcraft Podcast, Chris and Dave sit beside the fire the morning after a rugged night on the river. They cover everything from owls calling through the darkness, the pros and cons of high-end hammocks, cooking steak over open flames, and real talk about spending smart on gear. The episode weaves in reflections on Christian faith, learning website design the hard way, and how to stop posting random content and start filming with purpose. It’s real. It’s unscripted. It’s camp life.

Mentioned in this episode:

Hennessy Hammoc...

Join me at Camp Wut-Da-Heck for a raw, hands-on breakdown of three primitive fire-starting tinder's you can find and process in the wild—arrowwood, mimosa, and tung nut. I walk through scraping wet bark, sun-drying techniques, and using tools like the ferro rod and Pull Start Fire to get real flames in real conditions. If you’ve ever asked, “Can green wood actually work?”—this episode gives you answers you can take into the woods today.

Spiritual Reflection:
But this episode doesn’t just deal with physical fire. It turns the corner into a deeper challenge: Is your hear...

Chris shares his honest process of rethinking his pack—what gear matters, what gets left behind, and why less is often more in both bushcraft and faith. He dives into the real-world testing of three different camping bags, reviews the Rothko European Rucksack, and explains why tools should serve, not define, a man. Scripture focus is Matthew 6:19–21.

Pull Start fire link: https://amzn.to/3ZkFqyQ

What You’ll Hear:

The problem with packing too much gear

Breakdown of three camping bag setups

Review of the Rothko Canvas Rucksack

What...

Chris returns to Camp Wut-Da-Heck for a raw, unfiltered discussion about the most essential survival tool in the outdoors: your knife. With the wind blowing and fire smoke in the air, he unpacks not just the gear—but the deeper truth behind what makes a knife worth trusting. From field-tested blades like the Morakniv Garberg to his personal favorite, the BPS Bushcraft II, Chris lays out what separates a flashy showpiece from a real workhorse. He shares stories of gear that’s been abused, sharpened, re-used, and never let him down.

But this isn’t just about steel...

Fireside Talk: Overnight Kayak Trip on Black Creek

In this special long-form episode of the Primitive Camping & Bushcraft Podcast, host Chris Speir is joined by his good friend Dave for an unfiltered, unscripted fireside chat on the banks of Black Creek, Mississippi. Recorded during an overnight kayaking trip while testing out Vibe Kayaks, this episode blends bushcraft knowledge, spiritual reflections, and campfire storytelling in a way that only the outdoors can inspire.

This is more than just a conversation — it’s a slow burn. The fire pops, crickets chirp, and two friends talk about gear, surv...

Today we’re camped under the tarp at Camp Wut-Da-Heck, rain beating down hard and frogs cutting loose in the woods, digging into one of the truest tests of primitive camping — starting a fire with wet wood and just one match.
Chris walks through real-world fire-building skills forged from hard days in the field: how to find dry material when it feels like nothing’s dry, how to split and feather soaked wood, and how to build a fire lay that breathes life into soaked sticks when the rain just won't quit.

But this episode isn’t just a...

Episode Highlights:

Why Chris pulled back from social media and content creation

The heart behind the new Camp Wut-Da-Heck and its connection to his friend Scooter

What’s changing with the podcast and YouTube moving forward

Replacing quick “hacks” with real stories, real skills, and real purpose

Announcement of upcoming audio-only episodes recorded outdoors under tarp

The launch of “The Waypoint” community + email newsletter

Faith reflections tied into Easter and spiritual waypoints

Preview of future episodes, release schedule, and how to stay connected

Menti...

Chris takes us deep into his cooking gear pile, sharing real-world insights on cookware that works in primitive camping—from the heavy hitters like cast iron Dutch ovens to lightweight titanium pots. He covers a wide range of gear including coffee percolators, salvaged aluminum pots, antique Coleman cook sets, and even modular bushcraft kits that double as mess kits or survival storage. If you’ve ever wondered what to bring for backwoods cooking—or why some gear stays and others get left behind—this episode lays it all out with practical, time-tested experience.

What You’ll Learn:

Pros...

This week, Chris covers his favorite campfire meals, highlights some lightweight gear finds from an antique store, and discusses how you don’t need the latest tech to enjoy the outdoors. He also introduces his top-used camp kitchen tool roll and gives a shoutout to Creek Camper.

Topics Covered:

Why the podcast moved to a new YouTube channel: The Primitive Camper

Meal planning for 3–4 people: $10–11 camp meals

Cooking gear talk: old-school copper skillet and cold-handled Snow King skillet

Shoutout to Creek Camper for inspirational content

Classic percolator coffee...

Show Notes:

New YouTube Channel Announcement

Weekend Fire Incident: Lessons in Outdoor Cooking Safety

Introduction to Outdoor Cooking

Introduction

Freeze-Dried Foods

Topics Covered in This Episode:

Transitioning from fire-building to food preparation in survival and bushcraft.Following along in Primitive Camping & Bushcraft book (Page 182).The importance of food and how it ranks in survival priority.

Why Food Matters in the Wild:

5 Key Food Categories for Camping & Survival:

Dehydrated Foods

Episode Overview:

Fire-Starting Hacks Covered:

Fire is one of the most important survival essentials, and having a reliable fire kit can make or break an outdoor adventure. In this episode, Chris Speir takes a deep dive into assembling the ultimate fire kit, discussing essential fire-starting tools like BIC lighters, ferro rods, char cloth, magnification lenses, and fatwood. He shares personal experiences, practical tips, and insights on how to ensure you can start a fire in any condition. Whether you’re a beginner camper or an experienced bushcrafter, this episode will help you build a fire kit that works when you need it most.

...

Episode Highlights:

In this episode, Chris Speir discusses the critical skill of fire-starting for outdoor enthusiasts and survivalists. Starting from basic fire principles to advanced tools, Chris provides detailed reviews of popular fire-starting devices like ferro rods, arc lighters, and magnesium blocks, sharing personal anecdotes and practical tips to ensure you’re prepared for any situation. He emphasizes the importance of practice, resourcefulness, and being equipped with reliable tools to stay safe and comfortable in the wild.

Key Topics Covered:

Welcome to Season 2 of the Primitive Camping & Bushcraft Podcast with your host, Chris Speir! In this episode, we dive into the essentials of fire-building from the book Primitive Camping & Bushcraft. From psychological benefits to practical techniques, Chris shares insights into the mesmerizing power of fire and how to master its creation, even in challenging conditions. You'll also hear a recap of recent camping adventures and learn about Chris's favorite tools for fire-starting, including Black Bear Fire Plugs and classic techniques like feather sticks. Plus, get a sneak peek at Primitive Camping Blend Coffee—the perfect brew for your outdoor ad...

Show Notes

Introduction:

Natural Water Filtration Techniques:

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

Why Chemical Disinfection?
While not my preferred method, chemical disinfection is a reliable backup when you need to ensure water is safe to drink in the wilderness. Learn how iodine and bleach effectively kill biological contaminants like bacteria, Giardia, and viruses.

How to Use Iodine for Water Purification

Welcome back to the Primitive Camping & Bushcraft Podcast! In this episode, we explore the vital topic of pre-filtering your water to ensure a safe and enjoyable outdoor experience. Host Chris Speir shares his personal experiences, practical tips, and highlights from his book, Primitive Camping & Bushcraft.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

Show Notes: In this episode of the Primitive Camping and Bushcraft Podcast, host Chris Speir walks through one of the most vital aspects of wilderness survival: water purification. He shares an in-depth look at different methods, including boiling, filtering, and even distillation, and discusses the common risks posed by contaminants like protozoa, bacteria, and viruses. With real-life examples, including stories of adventurers who encountered Giardia and cryptosporidium, Chris emphasizes why simply drinking from a clear stream can be dangerous without proper preparation. For those new to bushcraft or seasoned wilderness experts, this episode is packed with actionable i...

Show Notes:

Introduction

Welcome and overview of tarp shelter configurations.

Mention of previous episode on basic tarp use.

Segment 1: Ridge Line and Prusik Knot Basics

Explanation of setting up a ridge line between two trees.

Detailed instructions on tying a Prusik knot.

Importance of using toggles for secure setups.

Segment 2: Lean-To Shelter Setup

Step-by-step process for building a lean-to.

Benefits of this simple and effective shelter type.

Segment 3: A-Frame Shelter Configuration

How to lay the...

Episode Highlights:

Links:

Episode Overview: In this episode, Chris Speir dives into one of the most crucial decisions for any camping trip—whether to use a tent or a hammock. He explores the advantages and disadvantages of both, from the traditional and highly customizable tent options to the simplicity and comfort of hammocks. Chris shares personal experiences, discusses different types of tents (including military canvas tents and tunnel tents), and explains the importance of weight and practicality, particularly in primitive camping scenarios.

Key Discussion Points:

Episode Summary: In this episode, Chris  explains why clothing is considered your first layer of shelter in any outdoor survival situation. From choosing wool for warmth even when wet, to avoiding cotton in cold conditions, Chris emphasizes how clothing protects you from environmental elements, insects, and temperature swings. Tune in for practical advice on how to dress smart, layer up, and prepare for primitive camping and bushcraft adventures. Learn about the benefits of permethrin-treated clothing, wool technology, and how the wrong choices can lead to hypothermia in both cold and hot climates.Key Topics:Clothing as the first line of d...

In this episode of the Primitive Camping and Bushcraft Podcast, host Chris Speir dives deep into the essential topic of shelter. Chris explains the importance of shelter in outdoor survival, comparing it to the comfort and safety of a home, and covers key concepts like campsite selection, building shelters using natural materials, and the importance of tools like tarps.

Show Notes:

In this episode of the Primitive Camping and Bushcraft Podcast, host Chris Speir is joined by the outdoor enthusiast and content creator behind Woodsbound Outdoors. Together, they dive deep into the life of a modern outdoorsman navigating the world of social media and survival skills. Woodsbound shares his journey from modest beginnings, experimenting with YouTube videos, to exploding in popularity on platforms like TikTok, where short-form content transformed his brand. The conversation touches on the unique challenges of building a presence online, including the frustrating rise of content piracy and the weird world of fake profiles.

...

Show Notes:

Introduction: Welcome back to the Primitive Camping and Bushcraft Podcast, hosted by Chris Speir, covering the basics of food while camping. Chris emphasizes the importance of calories as energy, especially during outdoor activities, and shares his favorite campfire-cooked meals.Calories as Energy: Chris explains how camping and outdoor activities burn significantly more calories than daily office life. He discusses calorie surplus and deficits, how to plan meals for camping trips, and the importance of fats and protein for sustained energy.Planning Meals for the Outdoors:Bring a variety of food options, depending on your trip length, such as canned meats...

Introduction: Welcome back to the Primitive Camping and Bushcraft Podcast, hosted by Chris Speir, guiding listeners through vital outdoor skills. In this episode, the focus is on water filtration and purification techniques to keep you safe in the wild.Why Water Purification Matters: With 70% of the Earth covered in water, not all of it is safe to drink. Learn the differences between filtering water to remove debris and purifying it to eliminate biological threats.Filtering vs. Purifying Water: Chris explains the necessity of using filters like bandanas, handkerchiefs, and even Keurig filters to remove debris, while further purification methods ensure...

Show Notes:

Overview:
In this episode, Chris delves into the significance of metal containers in outdoor survival. He highlights why single-wall metal containers are essential for boiling water, cooking, and other bushcraft tasks, while cautioning against the dangers of using double-walled insulated bottles over an open flame. Chris also shares his personal experience with various metal containers like the Pathfinder Cup and discusses the pros and cons of materials such as titanium, aluminum, and stainless steel. Additionally, he touches on their role in outdoor cooking and the impact of elevation on boiling points.

Key Points:

Overview:
This episode focuses on shelter as a critical component of outdoor survival and comfort, particularly when camping in primitive conditions. Chris walks listeners through various shelter-building methods, highlighting the flexibility of tarps and hammocks. He explains how these essential tools can be used to create shelters that provide protection from rain, wind, and extreme temperatures. The episode also explores personal experiences, including camping trips and testing lay-flat hammocks, as well as practical advice on shelter setups for different climates. Chris also discusses the value of proper clothing as the first layer of shelter and shares insights from...

Show Notes:

Introduction:

Importance of Cordage:

Types of Cordage:

Introduction: Chris welcomes listeners and introduces the topic of essential cutting tools for camping.Discussion Points:Importance of Cutting Tools: Overview of why cutting tools are crucial in camping and bushcraft.Axes:Types of Axes: Campers axe, boys' axe, felling axes, hatchets.Personal Preferences: Chris shares his experience with different axes, including the utility axe and the Eastwing camper's axe.Uses of Axes: Chopping trees, splitting firewood, carving, and more.Axe Maintenance: Importance of keeping axes sharp and tips for sharpening.Saws:Types of Saws: Buck saws, bow saws, folding saws.Personal Preferences: Chris discusses his preference for the Baco...

Introduction:

Key Points Discussed:

Types of Knives:

Personal Favorites:

Types of Steel:

Knife Tangs:

Introduction:

Cooking Essentials:

Cooking Methods:

Cooking Equipment:

Primitive Cooking Tools:

Safety Tips:

Welcome and Introduction

Importance of Food in Camping

Welcome back to the Primitive Camping and Bushcraft Podcast with your host, Chris Speir. This week, we dive into one of the most critical aspects of wilderness survival: water management. Whether you’re out on a leisurely camping trip or facing a dire survival situation, understanding how to find, filter, and purify water is essential.

Chris kicks off the episode by discussing the absolute necessity of water for survival. It's not just about quenching your thirst; water is vital for replenishing fluids lost through sweat, especially when you're active outdoors. He shares practical advice, assuming you're camping ne...

Introduction to the episode and personal experience with needing a fire to prevent hypothermia.Explanation of the fire triangle: heat, fuel, and oxygen.Importance of tinder, kindling, and fuel in building a fire.Tips on gathering and preparing tinder and kindling, including using natural materials like goldenrod and dog fennel.Recommended fire-starting tools: Bic lighter and ferro rod.Benefits of having a fire kit with multiple fire-starting methods.Discussion on the various benefits of fire in survival situations: warmth, cooking, purifying water, signaling for help, and boosting morale.Encouragement to practice fire-starting techniques and use different types of tinder and...

Welcome to the Primitive Camping and Bushcraft Podcast. Have you ever been caught in a sudden downpour or a chilly night without adequate shelter? I have, and it is not an experience that I'd recommend. Today, I'm going to go over essential shelter building techniques to keep you dry, warm, and safe. My name is Chris Speir, and I'm your guide to mastering the great outdoors. Let's get started.

Shelter is crucial for protection from the elements and providing warmth, as well as ensuring you have a good night's sleep. Today, we're going to cover five essential...

Introduction to Gear Essentials

Cutting Tools – Knives, Axes, and...

Episode #2: The Concept of Primitive Camping

In this episode of Primitive Camping & Bushcraft, host Chris Speir explores the concept of primitive camping, highlighting its essence, benefits, and challenges. Chris shares personal stories and practical tips to help both beginners and seasoned campers connect with nature and thrive in the wilderness.

Topics Covered:

Community Engagement: Join the Primitive Camping & Bushcraft Facebook group to share your experiences, ask questions, and connect with over 6,000 like-minded adventurers. Participate in...

Introduction

Book Overview

Community Engagement

Host Background