Cutting Tools for Survival | Tactical Rifleman

Published on August 9, 2019
Duration: 11:20

This guide, presented by a firearms instructor with extensive survival knowledge, details the selection and use of cutting and chopping tools for survival scenarios. It emphasizes the critical importance of maintaining sharp edges, understanding the specific functions of different tools like saws, knives, hatchets, and axes, and selecting them based on the environment and intended tasks. The instructor highlights how to leverage tool design for efficiency, conserve energy, and the necessity of carrying a versatile kit tailored to individual needs.

Quick Summary

Maintaining razor-sharp edges on all cutting tools is crucial for survival, as it minimizes effort and conserves energy. Curved saws are more efficient than straight ones, and different knife designs suit specific tasks like detailed work or general cutting. For splitting wood, tools with a wedge-shaped blade are ideal, while those with a full tang are better for pounding. A well-rounded survival kit includes saws, utility tools, small and large knives, and hatchets/axes, selected based on environmental needs and user proficiency.

Chapters

  1. 00:58Introduction to Cutting Tools
  2. 01:37Small Knives for EDC
  3. 02:03Chopping Tool Design & Technique
  4. 02:45Heavy Duty Chopping Tools
  5. 03:15Pounding Capability
  6. 03:36Utility Tools (Multi-tools)
  7. 03:52Folding Axes
  8. 04:06Viking Style Axes & CRKT
  9. 04:47Steel Tools for Heat
  10. 05:03Wooden Handled Tools
  11. 05:27Splitting Edges Explained
  12. 05:57Tool Selection Strategy

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most important aspect of maintaining survival cutting tools?

The most critical aspect of maintaining survival cutting tools is ensuring they are always sharpened to a razor-sharp state. This minimizes the effort required for tasks, conserves vital energy in a survival situation, and makes the tools more effective and safer to use.

How should one choose between a chopping tool and a splitting tool?

When choosing between chopping and splitting tools, look at the blade's design. Tools designed for splitting wood typically have a wedge-shaped blade that thickens towards the head, enabling them to effectively separate wood fibers. Tools primarily for chopping have a different blade geometry optimized for impact and cutting through material.

What types of cutting tools are recommended for a survival kit?

A comprehensive survival kit should include a variety of cutting tools: saws for processing wood, utility tools like multi-tools for diverse tasks, small knives for detailed work, larger knives (at least 10 inches) for robust tasks, and hatchets or axes for chopping and splitting wood. The specific selection should be tailored to the environment and expected challenges.

Why is it important for cutting tools to be sharp in a survival situation?

In a survival situation, maintaining sharp cutting tools is paramount for conserving energy. A sharp tool requires less force to cut, reducing physical exertion. This is crucial because energy reserves are limited, and overworking oneself with dull tools can deplete the strength needed for other survival priorities.

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