Blue. I never thought of that until I was reminded by you. I once worked in a facility that had a rail siding to deliver our liquid asphalt oils. When our cars got spotted, we were to put a device attached to the rail with a blue banner on it to indicate to the rail crew that unloading was in process, do not switch cars. I asked a railroad fellow "why blue?" instead of red, orange or yellow. He said basically "tradition". You just answered that question more intelligenlty than he did. I always say, thanks, Dave.
My favorite thing about your videos is that you separate "survival" from everything else. There are too many dorks who wanna play rambo like the shit will hit the fan while they're at the office making a website lol. You keep it real. Thanks, bud.
My name is Chris Myers retired SSG US Army I just want to say thank you for helping me get my head back into the game of the wild outdoors I find your videos very useful interesting and informative keep up with the videos
Lol! Well said! No matter how well technically advanced cameras become Bigfoot photos and videos are always gonna be blurry. Always great to hear from you Sara and thanks for watching!
Awesome video my brother! 👍 I really like how you showed the various setups and how well they blended in (or stood out in the case of the blue and orange). Some great options there for sure. Especially enjoyed your added tid-bits... always learn something new from ya buddy. Really love that camo mesh material too... gonna have to look into getting some of that 👍 P.S. That Ray Charles line had me rollin' man! 🤣🤣
Thanks John! I'm glad you liked it all brother. I found that camo mesh on Amazon just by accident and it turned out to be spectacular! It's always great to hear from you and thanks for watching!
@@Reallybigmonkey1 Absolutely my pleasure Dave! Definitely some good stuff for sure 👍 I'm still on the ol' Amazon hunt for that camo mesh, haha. Hope all's well my brother!
I dressed up once like a christmas tree and sat still around 18 hours in the woods just to observe wildlife there. Had food and water in my pockets and loved every minute of it. Bingewatching your video's cause I'm homebound right now, I'm looking into the stuff you introduce and I'm def trying out more camouflage for next time.
Now that sounds fun! Hunters sit still waiting for game but photographers and researchers often do too. I know a few people who have gotten all decked out in camo hoping to spot Bigfoot. Take care and thanks for watching my friend
In this case Bigfoot (my big Labrador retriever) found me hahaha, a friend staying at my house let him out and he was Not to fool, found me real quick! But man, in a small wood, unbelievable how crowded that is at nighttime with all the creatures you don't see by day. Was very interesting! @@Reallybigmonkey1
Another fun informative video. As for the different camo set ups, the main draw back is the horizontal line created when hung taught on that ridge line. You don’t normally find straight horizontal lines in nature. If you could make random loose droopy spots along the top to break that up it would probably be even less noticeable. Maybe even lean some branches against the ridge line that are higher than the ridge line to give it a more 3 dimensional look plus would help blend the camo in with the natural colors of the woods. Just my thoughts on trying to be less noticeable like you and Nick did when you made small shelters near a trail quite awhile back and challenged each other to find where you were hidden. Keep up the good work. Still love watching your videos. 😊
Thanks Tom, I'm glad you liked it. Yep, the dead giveaway is that top straight edge. I need to break it up or at least disguise it. Thanks for watching
Great examples of how to be seen and not seen Dave,and we appreciate your many hours of work preparing these videos,and like you said,every environment is going to be different because of the color variations of trees and bushes and even colors of trees in the summertime.Glad you made this video and it was a great way to spend a rainy Friday morning here.Thanks again and you stay safe out there and we will see you in the next one.
I agree with Dennis, we really appreciate your videos. I can only imagine how long it takes to pack everything back up. Probably as long as the video was! Yeah it was "long" compared to some of you others but it went by quickly due to the interesting subject matter. Again, thank you for all the time you spend making these!!! Blessings to you Nick.
Hey Dave Another Great video The How toos of Seen Versa unseen in the woods. Believe it or Not you are a Very Good Teacher at Bushcraft sprinkled with a nice hint of Survival teachings plus a heap of Hand made items. So Thanks for all if it in some things you have brought back memories forgotten Of Granddads ways of long ago!
I seem to remember in a couple of previous episodes that in one you leaned some dead sticks that were taller than your shelter on one side to break up the ridgeline and in another you took some spray paint to a regularly patterned camp to break those lines up. Both were super effective.
Yep, all are effective and the straight ridgelines are always a dead giveaway and really need to be disguised. Thanks for the comments and thanks for watching
Hey brother. You don’t have to respond to me. I know you’re busy and it takes alot of time to do so. I luv how after all these years you’re still putting out videos and knowledge. You truly love the outdoors and what you stand for. I’ve been following you for a minute now and it always makes me feel glad when you put another up! Your videos are wholesome and genuine and knowledgeable. With the world today, thats what we need and a lot of us want that. I completely appreciate you and nick and thank y’all brothers! God bless y’all!
Hello Brett! Man I know your name from way back. Thanks for all the views comments and friendship. I keep doing this because the world needs something other than a buncha folks trying to make a buck off absolutely everything they do. Take care and thanks for watching!
Hello David! When you were standing in the middle of the trail[before you zoomed in], that camouflage is perfect! As long as a pedestrian didn't hear you behind the camo screen, or see movement, they likely would not even think about anyone hiding; just walk on by.
Hey Dave 😊 Your depth of knowledge and creativity never ceases to amaze me! Despite all the gear you had to lug out into the woods, you seemed to be having a good time. 🙃 Thanks for all you do and having fun in the woods. Bigfoot... BEWARE! lol
I'm glad you liked it and no matter how much I have to lug out into the woods it's always fun! I'd LOVE to see a real Bigfoot. Thanks for watching Granny
Hey, Dave! Thank you for another excellent video with loads of great information! By the way, that blade you're sporting is sweet! I especially love the handle. Thank you for sharing it with all of us. Enjoy the rest of your weekend, and we shall see you in the next one! 🙂
Hello Lyn! I'm glad you liked it. That knife has slowly become one of my favorites! I'm glad you liked the video and it's always great to hear from you! You have a coffee filled good weekend too!
@@Reallybigmonkey1 😂 I will! Thanks so much. Everyone knows how much I love coffee and outdoors. In fact, I really miss my tarp shelters 😔 I’ve seen every video you’ve ever put out and I love all of them! They were a great help when I built my tarp shelters at my old house in the country. Always learn something new! Thanks again 😊
Dave, another really good comparison video , but I particularly liked the idea about a blue signal panel standing out better than orange. Good thinking - that's why we all keep coming back for more.
Very cool comparison of the different shelters! Both visibility and concealment are both very important scenarios to definitely consider. Thanks for sharing with us and #keepitburning 🔥
Hi Dave, that mesh camo works great. Especially putting it over the other camo panels. I like your bungie tie downs too. I think you got something there! 👍
Hello Jeff and I'm glad you liked it! That mesh is definitely a winner in my book. It's lightweight and will pretty much cover any shelter. Take care and thanks for watching
Really enjoyed it, Dave. As I am sure you are aware, the trick to spotting something camoflfed is to look for what doesn't belong in any particular area. Depending on your angle and how much foliage was between you and the camp site was instrumental on whether or not the shelter was spotted. First, I looked for straight lines. As it was breezy, I then looked for a wavy motion of the material. Trees and saplings sway. Then it was the camoflage itself. The mesh was the best, I think. I don't know how camoflage patterns are printed but in most designs you can see a consistent pattern at a distance. Plus, the shade was a bit off. However, there was one angle, I think from the backside where the woods were a bit denser, that it blended in really well. But a casual hiker just walking the trail would not have seen it if they weren't looking for it.
Thanks James, Im glad you liked it. Yep, straight lines are a dead giveaway and will be spotted easily. The beauty of the mesh is it wont be blowing and flopping in the wind like fabric would.Thanks for watching
To break up that straight line and add a little forest floor/oak leaf color a 8'x12' cargo net with leaves and twigs stuck in it stretched over the top of the shelter. They're pretty cheap and stretchy and dark and have hooks to grab onto stuff. Thanks Reallybig for another thoughtful video.
The net helped a lot on the last shelter because it got rid of the black lines you can’t get a camera to tack a picture through a window screen too. Nice job showing a lot of different things.
@@Reallybigmonkey1 I’m wondering if you wanted a viewfinder on both sides how you would lay the tarp. I’m thinking. Since your a master at 🧵 🪡 you could cut out strips for both sides. That were black see through mesh then throw your camo mesh tarp over the top. Or maybe sew in the camo mesh. Idk. But being able to spot a really big monkey from both sides is key to survival 🤣
Thanks Dave. I always enjoy watching your videos. You always share valuable information that's been carefully thought through, tried and tested. Have a great day.
I know you’ve used bungee cords forever, and I’ve seen other former military channels talking about their bungees. 40 years ago I NEVER saw a bungee cord in the Army so I don’t know when they became common. I recently got a 300 foot roll of 3/8 bungee cord, made some and have used them on my last couple of trips. WOW, I’m SOLD! Keeps tension on the tarp, eases the stress from wind loads, just all around a great addition to the miles of other string I bring 😂😂.
I'm thinking bungees were either too expensive, too bulky or not durable enough for military use. I don't know when they got popular with campers but I've been using mine for about 20 year and I love them!
Interesting!👍That mesh is cool material. I’ve played with OD parachute cloth plus small branches and camo netting, to hide a vehicle. Getting rid of straight lines and right angles always helps. Never been a hammock camper, but got to thinking about hiding here in the PNW where the mountains are younger and steeper, heavily wooded, usually with plenty of underbrush. A hammock lets you avoid “normal” camping spots, level spots near water, etc. Go in the direction normal people don’t like, and hang a hammock between trees in steep terrain. Note if you WANT to be found and are using a silver Mylar blanket in your emergency shelter: you want an original Thermos Space Blanket with the gold side out. Silver blankets reflect the colors around them, and are often not noticed by SAR planes. All the Best!
Our eye is particularly adept at picking up shapes and patterns. While the camo patterned mesh did blend nicely with the surroundings, the square pattern of it being attached to zip line did stand out. It got nearly perfect at the end. Thank you!
I totally agree, I often stealth camp and depending on the season will often have issues with camo/tents producing a straight edge at a distance to look at. So I often use camo netting or something to try and break that up. I also have issues David with vertical and horizontal shapes while trying to blend. If you could do some more videos like this one with camo you have it would help me out a lot, especially in different seasons over time plus terrains.
Yep, no matter the camo pattern straight lines will always be a dead giveaway and need to be hidden manipulated or disguised. I'll definitely be experimenting more with this. Thanks for watching Drew
Great video, Dave ! Stealth camping is fun when no one can see you ! The see-thru area could be covered by a 2 or 3 mil clear plastic sheet to waterproof that side. I always carry a twenty foot roll of plastic sheet with me for making shelter footprints, covering leaking areas, making a covering for shelter under shelter with the plastic on top, super shelters along with mylar blankets for heating. It is additionally handy for hanging very high up over fires to protect them from wet weather in combination with super shelters but only in emergency. To me plastic sheet is indespensible. I can gather up the makings for fire and bring them back to the fire site. They are incredibly strong doubled or even tripled to carry logs back to site for overnight fires, etc. There is no limit to what can be done, especially with duct tape as a companion. Gone are the days of tied pebble tie downs when you have duct tape. You can even improvise a small boat to carry your gear across various shallow bodies of water so nothing gets wet. Duct tape can be used to run with every direction of every small limb you use to build a small boat to provide a rest for each limb used, so that the plastic won't get pierced or leaky. You're going to smoothen every limb anyway but the thinness of the plastic will always need the reinforcement. That is a fording craft for gear. Attach a rope from you to the craft and have both hands and legs free to go across, using walking sticks of course. Things get slippery. Oh well Dave, I hope Nick and the rest of your family are doing fine. I pray for you guys from time to time for y'alls safety , love and happiness. God bless you and the ones you love ! A friend always ! Thanks again for the time you spend making each video ! You're the best !
Thanks, Im glad you liked it Peter. And thanks for the comments! They bring back memories of when I made boats out of bamboo, duct tape and plastic sheeting! Thanks for watching
Great video brother , a lot of information about setting up a camp to either be conspicuous or not. It's always good to have ideas for what to do before you go. God bless you and take care.
Hello Dave, thanks for sharing, AND demonstrating what different makings, and geometry (shapr edges, strati lined or puzzle-pieces) can differentiate what results you want to get. Let us enjoy outdoors, Greetings, Michael
Informative and engaging as always. I really liked how the camo mesh strung across the visible path gave the whole camp a bit of space and privacy. I wonder, If you run the ridge lines at 30 degrees or so, they'd look more natural. same for the tarp shelter. If the camo mesh was raised off the tarp at a different angle, it would help break up the lines as the light would partially pass through the camo mesh. Then there's always the trick of leaning a few bushy sticks against the mesh to further break up patterns. The mesh holes can act as tie down points with some bank line for the sticks if necessary.
Thanks, Im glad you liked it Michael. Yep, them ridgelines are very unnatural and need to be dealt with. I have a few ideas Im working on, hopefully Ill cure that. Thanks for watching
Great job showing things! Your very good at being hidden in the thicket. I was thinking of the way people laid out thier tarps in the old wilderness books I used to read. They would have the two sides come down toward the ground almost to a point on one end, you know, if you have a long enough tarp. I thought then it might just look like a tipped tree that's still up a little 🙂 off the ground. I love how your face or reaching with your hands suddenly come into the film as you're showing stuff, and you give a quick smile for the camera😄. Makes your films educational AND entertaining!
Thanks Linda, I'm glad you liked it. Often times I try to use fallen trees for my tarp set up to really blend in. That tarp configuration you mentioned might be a plow point shelter? Take care and thanks for watching
Grate video Dave we always told to look for repeating patterns and striate lines and we were taught to add some of the stuff leaves and sticks from the area and add them to your camo look forward to your videos ever week
Good point setting up the blind a month in advance! The last thing you need is Bigfoot coming over to get the "snack" inside the blind! I would bet that once the trees grow new leaves that blind would be next to impossible to find at 50+ feet away. Awesome video! And as usual, it looks like you did your research prior to making the video. --Tom
Thank you Tom! And not only would setting up early make animals used to it, the smells might go away and vegetation would grow around it too. Thanks for watching Tom
I would like seeing you do a ultimate in stealth cooking. That is stealth cooking using your car’s engine to either heat up cold food or actually cook it on your engine block. I used to love it years ago when my mom would steam turkey slices, potatoes, onions, and carrots in a large pot on top of a steamer rack. Slice all of the veggies and meats as thin as you could. Get some extra large sections of aluminum foil and form it into a bowl. Put it all together with as much water as you could. Wrap it as tightly as you could without breaking it. Nestle it down tightly against your engine block. And three or four hours of driving time you’ve got a fully cooked meal.
Great video David! One does have to watch one's Camel Pajamas... I think you got the right idea to break up straight lines and also cover up shaded parts. Adding a little of the natural cam; branches or reeds or grasses or whatevers; can help cam up the cam. Cheers
Something I will say about blue is that bees and wasps LOVE it. I've taken to using fluro pink instead, it still stands out but less insects. We have started recommending that local hunters avoid orange blaze as when it gets older it goes a little brown in hue and isn't so easy to identify compared to blues or pinks
I find it odd they force deer hunters to wear high vis orange because deer season starts in the fall when everything is orange red and yellow in the woods. Thanks for watching Tony
Thank you for yet another video filled with knowledge and tips. The thing that you do that others don't is to show examples of what you are telling us. I've learned so much watching your videos all these years. Your mind must be racing at night with all these ideas. Thank you for sharing with us.
Watching this video was like hanging with your buddies. I loved the experimentation. It will be different everywhere. In Maine it would be a white, green, black and gray pattern I’m thinking. (2’ of snow and another foot tomorrow). You just have to apply what works and use some additional brush like you did in the beginning. Fun and excellent video Dave!
I agree the mesh was the best lol I have some of that Walmart stuff too got it on clearance pretty cheap, the Walmart stuff pattern is wrong and its to white for my area too. The addition of some natural camouflage definitely helps, you might keep your eyes out for some military style netting that has more brown. Thanks for showing us tho...im sure folding all that up and putting it away wasn't fun 🤣 take care and we'll see ya in the next one lol.
Oh man that mesh is a game changer in my book! That Walmart camo is useless in most areas due to it's color. Lol, it was a chore packing everything up. Thanks for watching brother
This may sound stupid but when I am trying to figure out what color or pattern of camo I needed I would go to my local woods where I hike and camp and just take a picture of the woods about 40 or 50 yards away with my phone then try to match it up while looking at tarps or netting that closely matched my photo. I did this for all 4 seasons. Every time I thought I had the right camo I was way off so a photo seemed to help me. This was a great video and great job hiding your campsite. Kelly from Texas !
Hi Dave, cool video for people who don't understand different types of camo. What I've found to blend the best up here in Michigan is Advantage camo. The mossy oak seems to work good down south, but up here it doesn't blend as well as the Advantage does. I purchased a very versatile tarp a few years back that I use for camping. It's brand is Gold Armour and I love it for camping, although it is standard military camo type pattern (but I'm just using it for camping, I have other camo stuff for blending in). What I like the most about the tarp is that it has a million tie offs, all corners and along the edges, as well as tie offs in the walls of the tarp for making different shapes or keeping it from drooping/sagging. I like big tarps for camping, so it's good sized as well (10ft x 12ft). I can easily cover my hammock (with drop down on the back side for wind blocking) and I still have enough to pull out for a good sized covered area in front of the hammock. Oh, before I forget, that knife looks like quality equipment and I'd be interested to see you do a review of it. Rock On!
I bought 2 of those same tarps and really like them. It was a good price compared to my DD tarp (about half the price actually). But my DD multicam tarp blends in so well anywhere
Thanks, I'm glad you liked it. I've never heard of that brand of tarp. Often times on my homemade ones I'll add triple the normal amount of tie outs. That knife is incredible! You'll definitely be seeing more of it. Thanks for watching brother
Had to buy the Casström No10 after seeing this video, won´t argue with Dave and if he says it´s a good knife then it probably is 😉 I think you did a good job pronouncing "Casström" and I do believe the handle is curly birch on that one you got. Anyway, thank you so much for a great video, as always 😃 Best regards from Sweden!
Great video Dave. Ray Charles and I both agree these are awesome shelters. I really like the last one. If you could find some of the old Vietnam style cargo netting they used for cover. That would be a great cover for a shelter. I think anyway.
Thanks! I'm happy you liked it Matt! That netting used to be kinda heavy but modern non military versions might be lighter. Thanks for watching brother
Thanks boy so much great information. You had mentioned about the color blue being the absolute best noticeable color in the woods, and set up my hammock camp all in blue, as it really helps me establishing direction and the lay of the land around my camp while doing initial forage. I can get lost easily and had some bad experiences early age deer hunting in N MI. I really have enjoyed your DIY equipment as I’m a leather crafter and have three industrial sewing machines. I converted one to sew fabrics so really interested in purchasing these materials! Dave I really appreciate your videos!
That mesh is the deal, also lite to carry, important for me. Really enjoyed this video as always, btw, I really like that knife, the size is good for neck carry. Those patterns of camo blend well here in my neck of the woods for this time of year.
@@Reallybigmonkey1 Morning Dave. I rewatched your video and reread my comment, I wanted to clarify something whether it needs it or not. I said most people I know don't like what I like. Then I said I like you and Nick. I show my friends your videos and they really like you and Nick, not that they don't! I did not mean to include you guys! Nuff said.
Blue. I never thought of that until I was reminded by you. I once worked in a facility that had a rail siding to deliver our liquid asphalt oils. When our cars got spotted, we were to put a device attached to the rail with a blue banner on it to indicate to the rail crew that unloading was in process, do not switch cars. I asked a railroad fellow "why blue?" instead of red, orange or yellow. He said basically "tradition". You just answered that question more intelligenlty than he did. I always say, thanks, Dave.
It's amazing how blue totally catches the eye! Where I work they still use the Blue flag notification system on our railway. Thanks for watching Steve
My favorite thing about your videos is that you separate "survival" from everything else. There are too many dorks who wanna play rambo like the shit will hit the fan while they're at the office making a website lol. You keep it real. Thanks, bud.
Lol, thanks David and I'm glad you noticed that! Too many people don't know the difference between camping and survival. Thanks for watching brother
My name is Chris Myers retired SSG US Army I just want to say thank you for helping me get my head back into the game of the wild outdoors I find your videos very useful interesting and informative keep up with the videos
Fantastic to hear that Chris and enjoy the outdoors! Thanks for watching
Dave, you are such a smart guy! Every video you do is full of knowledge and expertise.
Thank you my friend!
The mesh is perfect for taking blurry Bigfoot pictures with your 4k camera. 😂
We always look forward to Fridays and seeing you. Thanks for the fun. 🥰
Lol! Well said! No matter how well technically advanced cameras become Bigfoot photos and videos are always gonna be blurry. Always great to hear from you Sara and thanks for watching!
All the little tidbits are great, they come from a life of practical experience, not some guy on a couch day dreaming about camping ideas.
Very well said William! Thanks for watching
Awesome video my brother! 👍 I really like how you showed the various setups and how well they blended in (or stood out in the case of the blue and orange). Some great options there for sure. Especially enjoyed your added tid-bits... always learn something new from ya buddy. Really love that camo mesh material too... gonna have to look into getting some of that 👍
P.S. That Ray Charles line had me rollin' man! 🤣🤣
Thanks John! I'm glad you liked it all brother. I found that camo mesh on Amazon just by accident and it turned out to be spectacular! It's always great to hear from you and thanks for watching!
@@Reallybigmonkey1 Absolutely my pleasure Dave! Definitely some good stuff for sure 👍 I'm still on the ol' Amazon hunt for that camo mesh, haha. Hope all's well my brother!
@@IntenseAngler Alls well here brother! Look on Amazon for "Winway camo mesh fabric "
@@Reallybigmonkey1 Glad to hear that brother! Thanks for the specific search info... now hopefully I can find it and grab some. Wish me luck, haha ;)
Another Great One For Friday Night ! Thanks David. Have a great weekend. TAKE CARE..
Thanks! I'm glad you liked it and you have a good weekend too!
@@Reallybigmonkey1 Hello, what was the material you made your 2 ply ground sheet out of ? Thanks.
I dressed up once like a christmas tree and sat still around 18 hours in the woods just to observe wildlife there. Had food and water in my pockets and loved every minute of it. Bingewatching your video's cause I'm homebound right now, I'm looking into the stuff you introduce and I'm def trying out more camouflage for next time.
Now that sounds fun! Hunters sit still waiting for game but photographers and researchers often do too. I know a few people who have gotten all decked out in camo hoping to spot Bigfoot. Take care and thanks for watching my friend
In this case Bigfoot (my big Labrador retriever) found me hahaha, a friend staying at my house let him out and he was Not to fool, found me real quick! But man, in a small wood, unbelievable how crowded that is at nighttime with all the creatures you don't see by day. Was very interesting! @@Reallybigmonkey1
Another fun informative video. As for the different camo set ups, the main draw back is the horizontal line created when hung taught on that ridge line. You don’t normally find straight horizontal lines in nature. If you could make random loose droopy spots along the top to break that up it would probably be even less noticeable. Maybe even lean some branches against the ridge line that are higher than the ridge line to give it a more 3 dimensional look plus would help blend the camo in with the natural colors of the woods. Just my thoughts on trying to be less noticeable like you and Nick did when you made small shelters near a trail quite awhile back and challenged each other to find where you were hidden. Keep up the good work. Still love watching your videos. 😊
Thanks Tom, I'm glad you liked it. Yep, the dead giveaway is that top straight edge. I need to break it up or at least disguise it. Thanks for watching
Great examples of how to be seen and not seen Dave,and we appreciate your many hours of work preparing these videos,and like you said,every environment is going to be different because of the color variations of trees and bushes and even colors of trees in the summertime.Glad you made this video and it was a great way to spend a rainy Friday morning here.Thanks again and you stay safe out there and we will see you in the next one.
Thanks Dennis! I'm glad you liked it. These camo experiments are definitely the most fun to film! Thanks for watching brother
I agree with Dennis, we really appreciate your videos. I can only imagine how long it takes to pack everything back up. Probably as long as the video was! Yeah it was "long" compared to some of you others but it went by quickly due to the interesting subject matter. Again, thank you for all the time you spend making these!!! Blessings to you Nick.
@@MrBearbait75 Thank you Paul!
Hey Dave Another Great video
The How toos of Seen Versa unseen in the woods.
Believe it or Not you are a Very Good Teacher at Bushcraft sprinkled with a nice hint of Survival teachings plus a heap of Hand made items. So Thanks for all if it in some things you have brought back memories forgotten Of Granddads ways of long ago!
Thank you so much Scott!
Wow never thought about the Blue. Learn something new everyday
Yep, it stands out in a sea of green brown and tan. Thanks for watching Jack
I seem to remember in a couple of previous episodes that in one you leaned some dead sticks that were taller than your shelter on one side to break up the ridgeline and in another you took some spray paint to a regularly patterned camp to break those lines up. Both were super effective.
Yep, all are effective and the straight ridgelines are always a dead giveaway and really need to be disguised. Thanks for the comments and thanks for watching
When you are talking, most of it is valuable information 👍👍
Thanks Jeremy!
Joy! A RBM1 video! And sporting the classic do-rag! This is going to be good!
Thanks!
David, thank you for sharing your expertise and home made shelters. Lots of great information.
You are very welcome Robin and I'm always happy to share!
Hey brother. You don’t have to respond to me. I know you’re busy and it takes alot of time to do so. I luv how after all these years you’re still putting out videos and knowledge. You truly love the outdoors and what you stand for. I’ve been following you for a minute now and it always makes me feel glad when you put another up! Your videos are wholesome and genuine and knowledgeable. With the world today, thats what we need and a lot of us want that. I completely appreciate you and nick and thank y’all brothers! God bless y’all!
Hello Brett! Man I know your name from way back. Thanks for all the views comments and friendship. I keep doing this because the world needs something other than a buncha folks trying to make a buck off absolutely everything they do. Take care and thanks for watching!
You were right about the blue standing out. When you had the red and orange they tended to blend into the back more than the blue.
Yep, red and orange can blend in at times. Blue never does in the forest. Thanks for watching Richard
Hello David! When you were standing in the middle of the trail[before you zoomed in], that camouflage is perfect!
As long as a pedestrian didn't hear you behind the camo screen, or see movement, they likely would not even think about anyone hiding; just walk on by.
Exactly my thoughts! Just a casual hiker would never be looking.
Hey Dave 😊 Your depth of knowledge and creativity never ceases to amaze me! Despite all the gear you had to lug out into the woods, you seemed to be having a good time. 🙃 Thanks for all you do and having fun in the woods. Bigfoot... BEWARE! lol
I'm glad you liked it and no matter how much I have to lug out into the woods it's always fun! I'd LOVE to see a real Bigfoot. Thanks for watching Granny
Hey, Dave! Thank you for another excellent video with loads of great information! By the way, that blade you're sporting is sweet! I especially love the handle. Thank you for sharing it with all of us. Enjoy the rest of your weekend, and we shall see you in the next one! 🙂
Hello Lyn! I'm glad you liked it. That knife has slowly become one of my favorites! I'm glad you liked the video and it's always great to hear from you! You have a coffee filled good weekend too!
@@Reallybigmonkey1 😂 I will! Thanks so much. Everyone knows how much I love coffee and outdoors. In fact, I really miss my tarp shelters 😔 I’ve seen every video you’ve ever put out and I love all of them! They were a great help when I built my tarp shelters at my old house in the country. Always learn something new! Thanks again 😊
@@Reallybigmonkey1 oh and I can see why that knife is one of your favs! It’s pretty sharp! 😉
@@truthhunters Sharp and very very special!
Dave, another really good comparison video , but I particularly liked the idea about a blue signal panel standing out better than orange. Good thinking - that's why we all keep coming back for more.
Thanks Paul! I'm glad you liked it brother. Yep, blue with always stand out in a wooded forest. Thanks for watching
That whole video was just a set up for a magic trick lol. Thanks for the tips and the entertainment Dave!
Lol! Maybe. I'm glad you liked it and thanks for watching
Very cool comparison of the different shelters! Both visibility and concealment are both very important scenarios to definitely consider. Thanks for sharing with us and #keepitburning 🔥
You are very welcome my friend and as always thanks for stopping by brother!
Hi Dave, that mesh camo works great. Especially putting it over the other camo panels. I like your bungie tie downs too. I think you got something there! 👍
Hello Jeff and I'm glad you liked it! That mesh is definitely a winner in my book. It's lightweight and will pretty much cover any shelter. Take care and thanks for watching
Really enjoyed it, Dave. As I am sure you are aware, the trick to spotting something camoflfed is to look for what doesn't belong in any particular area. Depending on your angle and how much foliage was between you and the camp site was instrumental on whether or not the shelter was spotted. First, I looked for straight lines. As it was breezy, I then looked for a wavy motion of the material. Trees and saplings sway. Then it was the camoflage itself. The mesh was the best, I think. I don't know how camoflage patterns are printed but in most designs you can see a consistent pattern at a distance. Plus, the shade was a bit off. However, there was one angle, I think from the backside where the woods were a bit denser, that it blended in really well. But a casual hiker just walking the trail would not have seen it if they weren't looking for it.
Thanks James, Im glad you liked it. Yep, straight lines are a dead giveaway and will be spotted easily. The beauty of the mesh is it wont be blowing and flopping in the wind like fabric would.Thanks for watching
To break up that straight line and add a little forest floor/oak leaf color a 8'x12' cargo net with leaves and twigs stuck in it stretched over the top of the shelter. They're pretty cheap and stretchy and dark and have hooks to grab onto stuff. Thanks Reallybig for another thoughtful video.
Sounds good to me Ralph! Thanks for the comments and thanks for watching
The net helped a lot on the last shelter because it got rid of the black lines you can’t get a camera to tack a picture through a window screen too. Nice job showing a lot of different things.
Thanks Kenneth, I'm glad you liked it
Allllllll Right. Another fine video. Thank you for sharing Dave.
I'm always happy to share, thanks for watching Brother Chris!
@@Reallybigmonkey1 I’m wondering if you wanted a viewfinder on both sides how you would lay the tarp. I’m thinking. Since your a master at 🧵 🪡 you could cut out strips for both sides. That were black see through mesh then throw your camo mesh tarp over the top. Or maybe sew in the camo mesh. Idk. But being able to spot a really big monkey from both sides is key to survival 🤣
@@GODANMEDIA it would be nice to see out of both sides but water could leak in anywhere there's an opening. Maybe sew some flaps that open up?
@@Reallybigmonkey1 Booya! 💯
Thanks Dave. I always enjoy watching your videos. You always share valuable information that's been carefully thought through, tried and tested. Have a great day.
You are very welcome Theresa, thanks for the comments and thanks for watching my friend!
I know you’ve used bungee cords forever, and I’ve seen other former military channels talking about their bungees. 40 years ago I NEVER saw a bungee cord in the Army so I don’t know when they became common. I recently got a 300 foot roll of 3/8 bungee cord, made some and have used them on my last couple of trips. WOW, I’m SOLD! Keeps tension on the tarp, eases the stress from wind loads, just all around a great addition to the miles of other string I bring 😂😂.
I'm thinking bungees were either too expensive, too bulky or not durable enough for military use. I don't know when they got popular with campers but I've been using mine for about 20 year and I love them!
love the wavy edging to the tarp! Often wondered why no-one did that. So obvious really.
Thanks Sue! I'm glad you liked that!
Interesting!👍That mesh is cool material. I’ve played with OD parachute cloth plus small branches and camo netting, to hide a vehicle. Getting rid of straight lines and right angles always helps. Never been a hammock camper, but got to thinking about hiding here in the PNW where the mountains are younger and steeper, heavily wooded, usually with plenty of underbrush. A hammock lets you avoid “normal” camping spots, level spots near water, etc. Go in the direction normal people don’t like, and hang a hammock between trees in steep terrain. Note if you WANT to be found and are using a silver Mylar blanket in your emergency shelter: you want an original Thermos Space Blanket with the gold side out. Silver blankets reflect the colors around them, and are often not noticed by SAR planes. All the Best!
Thanks for the comments Lane and thanks for watching brother!
This video is not only great 'Dave', but it is also chock-full of tips that come from years of experience, including experience shared by viewers.
Thank you James! I try to make em as helpful as possible. Thanks for watching brother
Our eye is particularly adept at picking up shapes and patterns. While the camo patterned mesh did blend nicely with the surroundings, the square pattern of it being attached to zip line did stand out. It got nearly perfect at the end. Thank you!
I gotta agree, and square shapes or straight lines really need to be eliminated if possible. Thanks for watching
Thank you very much for the opportunity to learn from your experience and your research Dave dear friend - We'll meet in the next video 🌲🌲🌲
You are very welcome Ofer and thanks for watching!
Thanks for filming Dave! 👍😁👍😁
Thanks for watching my friend!
I totally agree, I often stealth camp and depending on the season will often have issues with camo/tents producing a straight edge at a distance to look at. So I often use camo netting or something to try and break that up. I also have issues David with vertical and horizontal shapes while trying to blend. If you could do some more videos like this one with camo you have it would help me out a lot, especially in different seasons over time plus terrains.
Yep, no matter the camo pattern straight lines will always be a dead giveaway and need to be hidden manipulated or disguised. I'll definitely be experimenting more with this. Thanks for watching Drew
Hi Dave. Thanks for that. great idea with the blue tarps/cloths. Stay safe. ATB. Nigel
Hello Nigel and Im glad you liked it. Thanks for watching
Great video, Dave ! Stealth camping is fun when no one can see you ! The see-thru area could be covered by a 2 or 3 mil clear plastic sheet to waterproof that side. I always carry a twenty foot roll of plastic sheet with me for making shelter footprints, covering leaking areas, making a covering for shelter under shelter with the plastic on top, super shelters along with mylar blankets for heating. It is additionally handy for hanging very high up over fires to protect them from wet weather in combination with super shelters but only in emergency. To me plastic sheet is indespensible. I can gather up the makings for fire and bring them back to the fire site. They are incredibly strong doubled or even tripled to carry logs back to site for overnight fires, etc. There is no limit to what can be done, especially with duct tape as a companion. Gone are the days of tied pebble tie downs when you have duct tape. You can even improvise a small boat to carry your gear across various shallow bodies of water so nothing gets wet. Duct tape can be used to run with every direction of every small limb you use to build a small boat to provide a rest for each limb used, so that the plastic won't get pierced or leaky. You're going to smoothen every limb anyway but the thinness of the plastic will always need the reinforcement. That is a fording craft for gear. Attach a rope from you to the craft and have both hands and legs free to go across, using walking sticks of course. Things get slippery. Oh well Dave, I hope Nick and the rest of your family are doing fine. I pray for you guys from time to time for y'alls safety , love and happiness. God bless you and the ones you love ! A friend always ! Thanks again for the time you spend making each video ! You're the best !
Thanks, Im glad you liked it Peter. And thanks for the comments! They bring back memories of when I made boats out of bamboo, duct tape and plastic sheeting! Thanks for watching
I love these videos when you do them. That mesh camo is the ticket. That last set up you did was awesome!!! Thank you. Keep em coming.
Thanks! I'm glad you like them! After using that mesh camo I absolutely love it! It's a winner in my book. Thanks for watching
That was really cool, stealthy and effective. I believe that those came patterns would work just about anywhere in the mountains
Thanks Clarence! I'm glad you liked it
Lots of good mini tips🤣😉. Thanks Dave
Thanks! I'm glad you liked it my friend
Low and irregular shape is what I learned. Thank you sir
I agree, stay as low as possible. Thanks for watching
Nice touch at the end with the disappearing into the camo shelter.
Thanks! I'm glad you liked that
Great video brother , a lot of information about setting up a camp to either be conspicuous or not. It's always good to have ideas for what to do before you go. God bless you and take care.
Thanks Gary! I'm glad you liked it. Thanks for watching and may God bless you too brother
Love That Blade ! Great Set Up's High Vis & Totally Concealed, Thanks Davey, Hay Nick. ATB T God Bless
Thanks Terry! Nick says hi, thanks for watching and may God bless you too my friend!
Another great comparison! The disappearing act at the end was a neat twist! Bigfoot probably would not see the shelter or you in it 😉.
Thanks! I'm glad you liked it. Oh I'd love to have a Bigfoot sneak past my shelter!
Hello Dave, thanks for sharing, AND demonstrating what different makings, and geometry (shapr edges, strati lined or puzzle-pieces) can differentiate what results you want to get. Let us enjoy outdoors, Greetings, Michael
Hello Michael! I'm always glad to share and thanks for watching brother!
Informative and engaging as always. I really liked how the camo mesh strung across the visible path gave the whole camp a bit of space and privacy. I wonder, If you run the ridge lines at 30 degrees or so, they'd look more natural. same for the tarp shelter. If the camo mesh was raised off the tarp at a different angle, it would help break up the lines as the light would partially pass through the camo mesh. Then there's always the trick of leaning a few bushy sticks against the mesh to further break up patterns. The mesh holes can act as tie down points with some bank line for the sticks if necessary.
Thanks, Im glad you liked it Michael. Yep, them ridgelines are very unnatural and need to be dealt with. I have a few ideas Im working on, hopefully Ill cure that. Thanks for watching
Great job showing things! Your very good at being hidden in the thicket. I was thinking of the way people laid out thier tarps in the old wilderness books I used to read. They would have the two sides come down toward the ground almost to a point on one end, you know, if you have a long enough tarp. I thought then it might just look like a tipped tree that's still up a little 🙂 off the ground. I love how your face or reaching with your hands suddenly come into the film as you're showing stuff, and you give a quick smile for the camera😄. Makes your films educational AND entertaining!
Thanks Linda, I'm glad you liked it. Often times I try to use fallen trees for my tarp set up to really blend in. That tarp configuration you mentioned might be a plow point shelter? Take care and thanks for watching
Grate video Dave we always told to look for repeating patterns and striate lines and we were taught to add some of the stuff leaves and sticks from the area and add them to your camo look forward to your videos ever week
Thanks, I'm glad you liked it! You are correct, adding natural foliage is a great way of breaking up natural lines. Thanks for watching
Good point setting up the blind a month in advance! The last thing you need is Bigfoot coming over to get the "snack" inside the blind! I would bet that once the trees grow new leaves that blind would be next to impossible to find at 50+ feet away. Awesome video! And as usual, it looks like you did your research prior to making the video. --Tom
Thank you Tom! And not only would setting up early make animals used to it, the smells might go away and vegetation would grow around it too. Thanks for watching Tom
It's amazing how well this camouflage works
I agree, that mesh is my new favorite! Thanks for watching
I just watched this. That's a great idea and works way better than I thought it would. Thanks for the demo. Also, I appreciate the bigfoot shelter!!!!
Fantastic to hear that Doc and I'm glad you liked it!
Great Help, I like seeing the different colors and different camouflage shapes, THANKS!!!
I'm glad you liked it and thanks for watching my friend!
Enjoyed the stuffin' out of this video ! Great job Dave and it really worked good.
Thanks Sharon! I'm glad you liked it that much!
I would like seeing you do a ultimate in stealth cooking. That is stealth cooking using your car’s engine to either heat up cold food or actually cook it on your engine block. I used to love it years ago when my mom would steam turkey slices, potatoes, onions, and carrots in a large pot on top of a steamer rack. Slice all of the veggies and meats as thin as you could. Get some extra large sections of aluminum foil and form it into a bowl. Put it all together with as much water as you could. Wrap it as tightly as you could without breaking it. Nestle it down tightly against your engine block. And three or four hours of driving time you’ve got a fully cooked meal.
I don't see stealth cooking possible because of the smells. The only stealthy eating would be granola bars. Lol
Great video David! One does have to watch one's Camel Pajamas...
I think you got the right idea to break up straight lines and also cover up shaded parts.
Adding a little of the natural cam; branches or reeds or grasses or whatevers; can help cam up the cam.
Cheers
Thanks Chris! I'm glad you liked it. Oh yes, breaking up those straight lines with natural foliage is definitely a bonus!
Something I will say about blue is that bees and wasps LOVE it.
I've taken to using fluro pink instead, it still stands out but less insects.
We have started recommending that local hunters avoid orange blaze as when it gets older it goes a little brown in hue and isn't so easy to identify compared to blues or pinks
I find it odd they force deer hunters to wear high vis orange because deer season starts in the fall when everything is orange red and yellow in the woods. Thanks for watching Tony
Thank you for yet another video filled with knowledge and tips. The thing that you do that others don't is to show examples of what you are telling us. I've learned so much watching your videos all these years. Your mind must be racing at night with all these ideas. Thank you for sharing with us.
You are very welcome Mark and I'm glad you liked it brother! Lol, I rarely sleep well. My wheels are turning almost constantly!
Watching this video was like hanging with your buddies. I loved the experimentation. It will be different everywhere. In Maine it would be a white, green, black and gray pattern I’m thinking. (2’ of snow and another foot tomorrow). You just have to apply what works and use some additional brush like you did in the beginning. Fun and excellent video Dave!
Thanks Pierre! I'm glad you liked it. Yep, exactly what you said. The camo colors really need to match the area you'll be in. Thanks for watching
I love your channel brother. All these tips will save lives for people when we will be bugging out in the future
Fantastic to hear that Patrick!
I agree the mesh was the best lol I have some of that Walmart stuff too got it on clearance pretty cheap, the Walmart stuff pattern is wrong and its to white for my area too. The addition of some natural camouflage definitely helps, you might keep your eyes out for some military style netting that has more brown. Thanks for showing us tho...im sure folding all that up and putting it away wasn't fun 🤣 take care and we'll see ya in the next one lol.
Oh man that mesh is a game changer in my book! That Walmart camo is useless in most areas due to it's color. Lol, it was a chore packing everything up. Thanks for watching brother
Fantastic video Dave! I love all the little info bits. Very handy information.
Thanks Dave, Im glad you liked it. Thanks for watching
I Love those sharkclips! Never seen before. Thanks for yet another very informative video.
Oh they are soooooo handy around camp! I'm glad you liked it and thanks for watching
This may sound stupid but when I am trying to figure out what color or pattern of camo I needed I would go to my local woods where I hike and camp and just take a picture of the woods about 40 or 50 yards away with my phone then try to match it up while looking at tarps or netting that closely matched my photo. I did this for all 4 seasons. Every time I thought I had the right camo I was way off so a photo seemed to help me. This was a great video and great job hiding your campsite. Kelly from Texas !
I think that's a fantastic idea! Thanks for sharing that Kelly
That is a very interesting video, Dave , thanks from England
Thanks Peter! I'm glad you liked it my friend
Nice demo Dave. 😊Thanks
Thanks Quinn! I'm glad you liked it brother
awesome as always, you could add a thin see through plastic sheet to cover the gap
Thanks Keith, I'm glad you liked it. Good idea on the plastic sheet
I always appreciate and enjoy your time and efforts into making these videos for us!
Thanks Charlie! I'm glad you like the videos my friend
Hi Dave, cool video for people who don't understand different types of camo. What I've found to blend the best up here in Michigan is Advantage camo. The mossy oak seems to work good down south, but up here it doesn't blend as well as the Advantage does. I purchased a very versatile tarp a few years back that I use for camping. It's brand is Gold Armour and I love it for camping, although it is standard military camo type pattern (but I'm just using it for camping, I have other camo stuff for blending in). What I like the most about the tarp is that it has a million tie offs, all corners and along the edges, as well as tie offs in the walls of the tarp for making different shapes or keeping it from drooping/sagging. I like big tarps for camping, so it's good sized as well (10ft x 12ft). I can easily cover my hammock (with drop down on the back side for wind blocking) and I still have enough to pull out for a good sized covered area in front of the hammock. Oh, before I forget, that knife looks like quality equipment and I'd be interested to see you do a review of it. Rock On!
I bought 2 of those same tarps and really like them. It was a good price compared to my DD tarp (about half the price actually). But my DD multicam tarp blends in so well anywhere
I agree the DD multi Cam is some of the best I've had even throughout here in the West and the South
Thanks, I'm glad you liked it. I've never heard of that brand of tarp. Often times on my homemade ones I'll add triple the normal amount of tie outs. That knife is incredible! You'll definitely be seeing more of it. Thanks for watching brother
Great video on stealth and then being found! Can't wait till the next one! -Tony Po' Boy Adventures
Thanks Tony! I'm glad you liked it brother
Had to buy the Casström No10 after seeing this video, won´t argue with Dave and if he says it´s a good knife then it probably is 😉 I think you did a good job pronouncing "Casström" and I do believe the handle is curly birch on that one you got. Anyway, thank you so much for a great video, as always 😃
Best regards from Sweden!
Oh it's definitely a fantastic knife! Great to hear you have one. Thanks for watching Pierre
Great idea thank you very much stay safe out there
Thanks Lewis! I'm glad you liked it
Great presentation.
Thank you John!
Great video Dave, I always learn something from you. Thank you for the all the hard work you do.
Fantastic to hear that and I'm glad you liked it!
Enjoyed Dave, a lot of stuff to pack back up, thank you
Thanks, Im glad you liked it Harold. Lol, ah I needed the exercise
Great video Dave. Ray Charles and I both agree these are awesome shelters. I really like the last one. If you could find some of the old Vietnam style cargo netting they used for cover. That would be a great cover for a shelter. I think anyway.
Thanks! I'm happy you liked it Matt! That netting used to be kinda heavy but modern non military versions might be lighter. Thanks for watching brother
Your videos are great...love watching your adventures.
Thank you Jerome!
Dave your tarps and panels are something I wish you sold. Really cool stuff. Thank you for another informative video.
Thanks! I'm glad you liked it! I'd love to make and sell stuff like this but it's impossible to find the time to. Thanks for watching
Thanks boy so much great information. You had mentioned about the color blue being the absolute best noticeable color in the woods, and set up my hammock camp all in blue, as it really helps me establishing direction and the lay of the land around my camp while doing initial forage. I can get lost easily and had some bad experiences early age deer hunting in N MI. I really have enjoyed your DIY equipment as I’m a leather crafter and have three industrial sewing machines. I converted one to sew fabrics so really interested in purchasing these materials! Dave I really appreciate your videos!
Thanks Dennis, I'm glad you like the videos. Ain't it amazing how much blue stands out in the forest! Thanks for the comments and thanks for watching
That mesh is the deal, also lite to carry, important for me. Really enjoyed this video as always, btw, I really like that knife, the size is good for neck carry. Those patterns of camo blend well here in my neck of the woods for this time of year.
Oh that camo mesh turned out to be incredible! And I stumbled onto it by accident! Thanks for the comments and thanks for watching Alan
Another great video.
I use a camo mesh Sniper Veil during turkey season.
Thanks Bart, I'm glad you liked it. I've got a sniper veil too, it's amazing how effective it is
Another fun one in authentic ReallybigMonkey1 style! Thanks Dave!
Thanks! Im glad you liked it. Thanks for watching
Well done David
You've no time to watch it.
Thanks Justin!
@@Reallybigmonkey1 your very welcome David
Thank you. I bought the wind way.
It’s the way to go!
Fantastic to hear that Robert! I recently bought more Winway in multi cam. That stuff is a game changer!
Yes it is!!!!
Thanks for the video Dave. It was very interesting as always. 👍
You are very welcome Ian and I'm glad you liked it my friend!
As always great info Dave, thank you for your time and knowledge. 🤙🏼
Thanks Ricky! I'm glad you liked it brother
TGID, thank God it's Dave! I know so many people that aren't interested in anything I like. I like you and Nick. Hi Nick!
Well if you love the outdoors you're in the right place! Thanks for watching Steve
@@Reallybigmonkey1 Morning Dave. I rewatched your video and reread my comment, I wanted to clarify something whether it needs it or not. I said most people I know don't like what I like. Then I said I like you and Nick. I show my friends your videos and they really like you and Nick, not that they don't! I did not mean to include you guys! Nuff said.
Great stuff! Thanks sharing, cool to see the differences between them.
Thanks, I'm glad you liked it
Awesome video! Thank you for sharing such an amazing information x
You are very welcome and I'm glad you liked it Kelsey!
Great Video David. Thank You.
Thanks! I'm glad you liked it
That first camo you used was the best at hiding your hammock. A few leaves and sticks would have really hidden it.
Yep, adding natural foliage always helps. Thanks for watching James.
Great video 👍! Choke full of information!
Thanks Alexander! I'm glad you liked it
Have nice Videos Dave JB from Melbourne Australia keep it up Dave
Thanks! I'm glad you like them
With the Walmart blind removed; the dappled shade on the dark blue hammock blends in better than the Walmart fabric!
Lol, goes to show how lousy that Wal-Mart camo is
Thank you dear Dave. Love your videos! Be safe out there.
Thanks!
Interesting subject and video...I like how the disappear in the background!
Thank you Brother Tenda! I love experimenting with this stuff