While I'm without photo uploading abilities, let me share a couple of links. First is an excellent post on Ötzi the Iceman's kit. If you've never heard of Ötzi, he's the world's oldest natural mummy, and a wealth of information on the early European bronze age. The things he carried reflect a time of overlap between stone and bronze technology. It's interesting how little our bushcraft kits have actually changed. (thanks to Gorges Grouse for the heads-up on this.)
The second thing I'd like to mention is the discussion over on BladeForums to add a Whittling and Crafts subforum. I'm all for it of course. If you are too, then please add your voice to the discussion.
On the Wonderful Whittlin' front, I'm currently whittling up some toy horses with saddles and harness, as well as the usual armload of spike trolls. I hope to get around to making some ball-in-cage carvings too. Time will tell.
Showing posts with label bushcraft. Show all posts
Showing posts with label bushcraft. Show all posts
Tuesday, March 29, 2011
Monday, February 28, 2011
Lumberjack Spoon (BCUSA contest entry)
Well I didn't win, but the recent Bushcraft USA spoon contest was a ton of fun. No other spoon looked like mine, and I got some votes, which is always encouraging.
The basic idea here is a lumberjack gripping a double-bit axe with "BC" and "USA" engraved on it's head and handle. Other details include a sheathed knife on his left side and a patch sewn on his right pant leg.
Monday, February 21, 2011
WIP: New Woodspirit Walking Stick
I've dug up a stout walking stick from the woodpile and have started sketching and shaving away. I'm taking tons of photos this time, and might even post a step-by-step tutorial if things go well.
More updates to come!
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
Bushcraft USA Spoon Carving Contest
The BCUSA Spoon Carving Competition IV is happening right now! Stop over and check out the entries. This time there's 20 beautiful hand-carved spoons, in all levels of experience and many types of wood. Voting is open to any registered member, and registration is free.
While you're there, look around BCUSA. I love the Self Made Gear subforum as well as Trips & Expeditions. It's a great place to share one's love for the outdoors and despite the name, Bushcraft USA is an international community.
While you're there, look around BCUSA. I love the Self Made Gear subforum as well as Trips & Expeditions. It's a great place to share one's love for the outdoors and despite the name, Bushcraft USA is an international community.
Friday, October 8, 2010
The Figure Four Deadfall
I'm participating in a bushcraft skill challenge over on Blade Forums. Every day this month I will make a figure four deadfall trap. So far I've made one each day for a week, with all but one being successful. The carving demands are very basic. 
The figure four consists of three sticks and a heavy weight such as a rock or log. The three sticks are cut and notched, then set together under the heavy object. All four parts support each other. The weight rests on the diagonal (lever) stick, which pivots on the upright, and the lever pulls on the trigger stick, which is notched and rests against the upright. When the trigger stick is disturbed, the trap collapses and the deadfall crushes the target animal.
By the end of October this should be a well honed skill.
The figure four consists of three sticks and a heavy weight such as a rock or log. The three sticks are cut and notched, then set together under the heavy object. All four parts support each other. The weight rests on the diagonal (lever) stick, which pivots on the upright, and the lever pulls on the trigger stick, which is notched and rests against the upright. When the trigger stick is disturbed, the trap collapses and the deadfall crushes the target animal. By the end of October this should be a well honed skill.
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