Bushcraft is becoming increasingly popular as a survivalist trend due to rising concerns about natural disasters and the realization that people need to be able to survive without modern commodities. The methodology involves going back to basics by learning skills used in surviving in the wild by living off the land. Skills required in bushcraft include fire-building, shelter, water purification, hunting, trapping, and foraging. Practicing bushcraft allows individuals to disconnect from technology and reconnect with nature, learn practical survival skills, and become self-sufficient. However, it requires a significant time investment to learn and practice, and can be risky, especially for beginners.
Back to Basics: The Rise of Bushcraft as a Survivalist Trend
In recent years, there has been a growing trend towards bushcraft as a methodology for survival in the wilderness. Bushcraft refers to the skills, knowledge, and tools used in surviving in the wild by living off the land. This trend is mainly due to the realization that people need to be able to survive without modern commodities in an emergency. In this article, we will explore the rise of bushcraft and its popularity as a survivalist trend.
What is Bushcraft?
Bushcraft is all about going back to basics and learning the skills necessary to survive in the wilderness. It includes skills such as fire-building, shelter, water purification, hunting, trapping, and foraging. Bushcraft is about using your surroundings to survive and not relying on modern devices such as GPS, smartphones, and other gadgets.
Bushcraft Basics
The concept of bushcraft is intriguing for its simplicity and practicality. The first and probably the most essential skill to learn is fire-building. You need to know how to start a fire and keep it going. You might also have to create and maintain a shelter, which can be as basic as constructing a lean-to using natural materials or creating a long-lasting shelter that can withstand severe weather conditions.
In terms of water, knowing how to purify it is crucial. You can opt for boiling the water or using natural filtration methods, but the bottom line is having a steady and reliable source of water. Bushcrafters also have to be self-sufficient with food. Hunting, trapping, and foraging are highly encouraged skills to learn.
Why Bushcraft?
The rise of bushcraft is mainly attributed to the rising concerns about natural disasters and emergencies such as earthquakes, hurricanes, and power outages. Proponents of the bushcraft movement believe that the ability to thrive in the wilderness is a fundamental human skill and should be practiced and preserved.
Moreover, bushcraft provides an excellent opportunity to disconnect from technology and reconnect with nature. In today’s world, where people are increasingly busy, stress, and restless, practicing bushcraft can be a great way to destress and unwind.
FAQs:
Q: What gear is essential for bushcraft?
A: The essential gear for bushcraft is a fixed blade knife, hatchet, firestarter, water bottle, shelter, and cooking set.
Q: What are the benefits of practicing Bushcraft?
A: There are several benefits associated with practicing bushcraft. You get to disconnect from technology and reconnect with nature, learn practical survival skills, and become self-sufficient.
Q: Are there any downsides to practicing bushcraft?
A: Despite its benefits, there are some downsides to bushcraft. It requires a significant time investment to learn and practice the skills. In addition, it can be risky, especially for beginners who might find themselves in unfamiliar wilderness conditions.
Conclusion:
Bushcrafting is slowly gaining traction as a survivalist trend, riding on the heels of a booming outdoor industry. It’s a great way to learn practical skills for self-sufficiency and survival. Learning and mastering these skills will equip you with valuable knowledge in case of any emergency or natural disaster. However, as with everything, it’s vital to approach it with caution, especially if you are a beginner.
