Marine Survival Expert to Master Bladesmith: Jerry Saunders | The RECOIL OFFGRID Podcast

Published on December 23, 2024
Duration: 83:11

Jerry Saunders, a retired Marine Corps sniper and survival expert, details his extensive career, from early trapping and marksmanship to specialized military roles like FAST and EOD. He discusses his experiences in global operations, including humanitarian missions in Lebanon and Haiti, and his involvement in developing survival training programs. Saunders also shares his transition into civilian life, focusing on his passion for custom knife making with Corvis Knife and Tool, and his ongoing journey managing epilepsy.

Quick Summary

Jerry Saunders, a retired Marine Corps sniper and survival expert, transitioned from military service and law enforcement to custom knife making with Corvis Knife and Tool. He has extensive experience in tactical operations, survival training development, and managing health challenges like epilepsy stemming from multiple TBIs.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction and Early Life
  2. 03:41Early Marksmanship with Pellet Rifle
  3. 07:03Inspiration from Daniel Boone and Last of the Mohicans
  4. 07:56Path to the Marine Corps Post-9/11
  5. 10:24Fleet Anti-Terrorism Security Team (FAST)
  6. 11:17Experiences in Cuba and Lebanon
  7. 15:59Deployment to Iraq as Machine Gunner/EOD Support
  8. 18:23Transition to Sniper Role
  9. 19:53Suez Canal Transit and Shipboard Life
  10. 21:38Response to Haiti Earthquake (2010)
  11. 27:37Developing Survival Training Programs
  12. 32:56Afghanistan Deployment and Incident
  13. 33:59Training in Estonia and Norway
  14. 43:38Transition to National Park Service Law Enforcement
  15. 47:50Role in Yosemite National Park
  16. 55:15Intercepts Team and Cartel Operations
  17. 59:18Beginning of Knife Making with Corvis Knife and Tool
  18. 63:22Epilepsy Diagnosis and TBI Impact
  19. 65:49Preparedness and Technological Aids
  20. 71:16Future in Knife Design
  21. 73:11Signature Knives and Design Evolution

Frequently Asked Questions

What was Jerry Saunders' role in the Marine Corps?

Jerry Saunders served as a Marine Corps sniper, a member of the Fleet Anti-Terrorism Security Team (FAST), and worked with Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) units. He also played a key role in developing survival training programs.

What kind of knives does Jerry Saunders make?

Jerry Saunders, through Corvis Knife and Tool, makes custom knives. His designs range from utilitarian carry-on knives tailored to his lifestyle to more artistic pieces, with a recent focus shifting towards knife design.

What challenges has Jerry Saunders faced in his life?

Saunders has faced numerous challenges, including multiple traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) from his military service, which have led to a recent epilepsy diagnosis. He also experienced burnout in his role with the National Park Service and navigated complex military and law enforcement operations.

How did Jerry Saunders get into knife making?

His interest in knife making began as a child, inspired by 'Foxfire' books. After a career in the military and law enforcement, he revisited the craft, initially making knives for himself and friends, which eventually led to the establishment of Corvis Knife and Tool.

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