Nessmuk: “The temptation to buy this or that bit of indispensable camp-kit has been too strong, and we have gone to the blessed woods, handicapped with a load fit for a pack mule. This is not how to do it. Go light; the lighter the better, so that you have the simplest material for health, comfort and enjoyment.”
Once I hit 50 I realised that to enjoy nature as I'd previously done I'd have to carry less or lighter. Luckily experience allowed me to use my skills to carry what I really needed rather than what I thought I wanted. I eagerly await the rest of the series.
Here I am moving from my ultra light roots to using more wool, canvas, stainless steel and military surplus and Dave is going the other way! I love this time of year for Dave’s videos. It’s when he really gets creative and pumps out awesome content. Looking forward to this series
That's probably your most admirable trait: you're always looking to learn more. You don't have a "one way to do things" mentality and you don't mind looking in new/unexpected places for knowledge. Something we could all learn from
Dave I have watched you for years and hearing you talk about weight and ultralight is a trip! However love that you are willing to think outside your comfort zone and truly experience any and all things for your trade! You are without question a living legend, and I love watching all of your series!! 🏕
I have been thinking along these lines myself. I am in 50s and I suffer from paratrooper/infantry knees and hips. Last year I hiked the Grand Canyon and realized that for short stomps into the bush my old Army gear is great. But, if I want to put in some miles, I am carrying too much weight. All of that to say... thanks and I look forward to watching this series.
As usual, you are on the right track brother. At 65, I couldn't agree more. Thanks for your wisdom and experience. I look forward to this like I look forward to all you produce. Those of us in this community are indebted to you. Your efforts and passion are benefiting so many.. Thanks.
I did a 30 day trek across NZ with a day pack. Was able to push 50mpd and had all the freedom in the world. Food was oats and powdered milk, 5-7 day ration. Full wet weight probably 12-15lbs. Comfort is very heavy and a bit of an illusion. Everything is delicious if you're hungry and everywhere is comfortable if you're tired.
One must remember that Nessmuk had a reason for minimal packing, he was 5'3 and weighed 98 -104 lbs. if he packed 40lbs that would be the same as an average man packing 60 - 80 lbs. Your goal of 25 lbs or less would equal a goal of 16 lbs for Nessmuk. (George Sears)
I'm a disabled vet, on a fixed income (disability). This new series has my interest, I am looking for ways to"get back in the woods. So weight vs cost is VERY important to me and my goals. Yes, hunting, trapping, fishings, and camping are my side goals to include. I can't wait to see more of these videos. Please share items that you considered in making your choices so that folks with income constraints can have options on cost vs weight. Even short term solutions that would require replacement, could give me the opportunity to return vs just wishing from at home. I would only be looking at small hiking distances due to my handicap restrictions (nerve and leg impairments).
Can't wait to see where this series takes us. Was fishing one day, met a woman hiking the (GET) Great Eastern Trail, she did'nt look like she was packing much of anything. I saw online she completed the hike, Kathy Finch was her name and was the first to do it from North to South. I offered her a can of Vienna's, said she never ate them before. Also give her a headlamp with strap. She gladly took them. All the best and great series.
This is something I've been attempting to blend over the last decade. I've been taking bits from you as well as backpackers in an attempt to find a middle ground. Can't wait to watch your series. Thanks for all you do!
I like the cooler weather and rely on snuggling to the fire under a tarp instead of carrying heavy shelter and sleep system. I simply gather downed long trees/logs and quickly strip as much loose bark as possible to keep smoke down. After I build my initial fire lay with whatever is small and dry like leaves, twigs and small branches (no axe) I simply drag in the uncut logs as I'm awake every 2 hours anyway. It's not a super comfy sleep but I get enough and as the nights go on you sleep more as you become more tired. It works in the right areas. In the eastern woodlands of Virginia there is no shortage of fire materials. Enjoyed this one Dave!
I do not see people doing this any more, but it works. Build a fire, move it over and sleep on the warm spot. Repeat as needed. My old dog was always ready to hog that warm spot! Chris
I applaud you Dave for discussing and taking on this video project series. I have always looked at many Bushcraft channels and some folks talk about gear and pack weight but they do not show or explain exactly what you stated about take down and repack and travel for another camp location. I look forward to each new video you present. Keep up the great educational teachings you do.
yeehaw, my favourite contemporary talking about my favourite oldtimer. brother, in my book you already have a place among types like hearne, bridger, nessmuk and beard. just continue being you, and i'll continue to rejoice.
as a serious ultralight backpacker this video is pretty good. 120 to thru hike the at is pretty fast also. thats 18 miles per day average and NO zeros. few do it that fast. more like 150-180. a few do it in 120 though. great vid!
Due to health reasons, most of this stuff is way beyond my capabilities. However, I find your videos very informative and entertaining. Thank you for all the effort you put into bringing this information to an "armchair bushcrafter" such as myself. Keep it up; keep safe; and keep breathin'.
Hey, I hope you still get out there. I got old ahead of time over a major stroke. Did not see that coming. My heart is unhappy, and I had to relearn how to walk, but I am out there. I went from 53#s to 27 for a basic 3 nighter. I always have and extra day's food and now use a 2# bear canister. It can be done! Trecking poles are my friend. Be well Chris
Fun spin! The historical woods mans methods have always have been a highlight of watching and listening to your channel. I can’t wait to see how your experience and ideas can improve the ultralight camping world.
I agree with everything you said, man. I've "cross bred" my load out between bushcraft and ultralight awhile back and it makes a major difference for me.
Hey Dave, I'm an (ultralight) AT thru-hiker as well as a lover of your videos and traditional, durable gear. I've been trying to balance the two mindsets of weight vs durability for a long time. I'm REALLY looking forward to seeing what you come up with!
Awesome Dave! This is a process I've been fine tuning for years and I'm excited to see your approach to it. Some of these thru hikers start out with 8lb base weights but at that point they've sacrificed not only durability but utility and comfort to maximize specificity. Travel light, freeze at night is a trope at this point but still true. My pack weight generally hovers around 25-36 lbs including food and water depending on how many days I'm going out and what I'm doing, and that's with a German military ruck. I always use a mixture of modern lightweight gear with military surplus items, partly because I'm just a sucker for militaria but also because its tested, durable and generally very cost effective . I did a rim to rim to rim Grand Canyon trip earlier this year over 5 days and my pack weight at the beginning was 31lbs including food, water and trekking poles. I had to get creative with clothing too because there was snow on the north and south rims but 80° at the bottom. The only essential kit item I didn't bring that I normally carry was my folding saw. Point of all this is to say, 25lb base weight is definitely doable without sacrificing durability or utility. Enjoy the journey!
Looking forward to this series. i am an ultralight hiker and I practice wildnerness survival/bushcraft/prepping/self-reliance. I've watched your videos on youtube almost since day 1 ... and your 10 c's is what clicked for me because I realized sans the sail needle ...that's mostly what I've carried hiking since the 1980's. I own an entire house and shed full of everything from cheap gear to the highest end gear money can buy for hiking, bushcraft, survival, etc. Some gear easily cross over between those skill sets while some not so much (there is basically little chance I would need a saw, bushcraft knife, or ax on a long distance hike). Lighter gear is also way better on my bodies joints ... I mean, even though I work out every day and have for years, walking long distances is still using muscles your body doesn't use every day and it quickly takes its toll on you. Doing a long distance hike is not only tough on the body....but more so mentally than physically. A lot of people have no problems doing a weekend bushcraft camp .... but strap on 30-40 lbs and go live with that on your back for weeks at a time every day and the mental part will destroy you long before your body gives out.
Nessmuk taught me to simply my life. Darwin on the Trail stresses what works for him. Bigfoot shows us the the joy of just being out there. Hopefully Dave’s series will teach us how to accomplish a journey with a purpose (hunting, fishing, etc). The overlap of these styles should show us what we personally need to accomplish our goals and still smooth it rather than rough it. Nessmuk’s words, not mine. Stay safe!
Good News! I have been pointing out how Sears, after returning from the war between the States used the most modern gear he could get his hands on. While revering you folks keeping anachronistic knowledge in practice, I am grateful for modern gear. With help from folks like Darwin on the Trail, my basic 3-4 day 3 season 'all up weight' went from 53 pounds to 28. This is not from the skin out, and sans hunting gear. My old 63# winter kit is evolving now. Thank You. I am looking forward to 'In the Shadow of Nessmuck'! Chris
Look forward to the series Dave. I like very much what Nessmuk said in his Camping and Wood craft book " We go out to the woods to smooth it, we have it rough enough back in town". That's been my philosophy for years now. Have still been searching for the "Holy Grail" of lightweight equipment that I can carry on my back to make my experience smooth as possible.
Good explanation of your concept. I hope everyone gets it and doesn’t hammer you with all the complaints about the ideas you just explained. What you are discussing here is a high level, advanced form of outdoor adventures. We will see......
Your looking good Dave, its been really cool watching you over the years, ive learned so much from you man, I just wanted to say Thank you, and I appreciate it, ive passed most of what you've taught me to my son...
Thanks for sharing Dave!! This is gonna be a good series cant wait for more. I like that fact that you're learning from ultra lite backpackers. We as bushcraft and all outdoorsmen can learn from every outdoor person. Hunters, camper, hikers,and of course follow bushcrafters. Thanks again.
I could never thru-hike, but I do enjoy watching Darwin and others. I like seeing how they do things and what gear they take. I only have a couple UL items, but I'm slowly working on it. I'll still have saw and pillow though 😂 I can't wait to see more of this.
Great lesson here. I am 63 yrs old and the idea of carrying a 60 lb pack on my back over any distances is just not gonna happen. Even 40lb is out of the question. My ultimate weight is perhaps 251bs although it may sound crazy i personally think it is doable.
Hi Dave. Great video, Great idea. I have read Nessmuks book, and have tried to follow his example. I will be watching for more of these video’s. I, personally like the more traditional items, even though they are usually a little heavier. That is what makes bushcraft so awesome, everyone can find his/her own nich Thanks again, Dave.
Im looking forward to watching this. For me its a want vs need vs $$$ vs safety vs weather. I found skills and knowledge play a role in wieght reduction as well. See you in the next video
Call me a flower child, but at 76, a few years ago I had to choose between spending the money to go really light, or car camp. Made the choice to go light and haven't regretted a single dollar as I still can backpack. Really looking forward to this series!
The best of both worlds. Traditional and modern tech. It's an and not a verses. You are going to love the Hammock Gear quilt, they make amazing products. You now have reliable shelter try ditching the axe. 5" knife good folding saw will get the job done. Great content as always. Enjoy the journey.
I am glad you are looking into this method. I have backpacked for years and find myself in the middle of ultra light weight and reasonable. I don’t cut the handle off my toothbrush or remove zipper pulls, but I am always looking for new gear that weighs a little less due to materials. Super excited about this series
Bushcraft and Ultralight. A worthy conversation. Glad to see you make that leap. Been down that rabbit trail myself. Can’t wait to see how you marry up the two philosophies and what you come up!
This should be quite interesting. Especially seeing how things will break down to weight to get to that 25 pounds. Can't wait for the next series of videos!
Dave, this is going to be a very interesting series I feel. I'm 65 and my outdoor days are now limited by weather and weight. I've looked at lighter gear but in my opinion, not much in the way of Ultralight, as you've stated, is truly up to the challenge of our type of fieldwork. Many years ago, I did a goodly portion of the AT, (not all but most) and for the most part, I had access to lean-to shelters, fairly well-used clearings and near trail access to the woods. Not deep in the woods by any means. In those days, safety was enhanced by staying as close to the trail as was prudent. Now, as forever, knowledge is the tool to minimize gear, something you are very aware of. True bushcraft, the skills at least, came from learning the local indigenous ways of day to day "Survival" that defied, the societal conveniences and norms. Then too, the indigenous people banded together into tribes to improve the odds of everyone's survival, and everyone was taught those skills or the skills of their contribution to the tribe. Today, bushcraft and the modern practiced skills are about a unique individual's ability to smooth it, as you have said often, in small groups or solo outings. Gear has taken the place of skills and consumerism driven bushcraft surrounds us all. I am very interested to see if your "Core 3" will aid you in your quest to achieve lightweight functionality, durability, reliability, and enjoyability at the same time. Good luck and I wait breathlessly...
You have me hooked and ready to watch the rest of this series with this into. I am already the type to carry Ultralight pack, quilt, tarp, titanium cookwear, and alcohol stove to save weight , but will add my Mora knife saw ,fishing and hunting gear to it. I enjoy practicing "traditional skils" while backpacking and mixing the modern skills and materials with the old. I am stoked to see what this series brings.
Good stuff Mr. C. The dissonance between Ultra-Lite and Traditional gear proponents doesn't make sense. Both provide tools to achieve a goal effectively. Looking forward to this series
This will be a fun series to watch, Dave! When I've been out camping I've usually chosen comfort over weight, but in the last 2-3 years I've started to shift more over to lightweight gear that still has the durability to be worn/used for 5-10 days in the wild without breaking down. When I hunt I always go out in the morning and come home in the afternoon, so the weight there isn't really anything to consider "Carry as little as possible, but choose that little with care." - Earl Shaffer
Excellent! Thanks for the video Dave and for all the effort and time you invest and for sharing your findings and experience with us. Looking forward to following this series and learning some new ideas and concepts.
Right on time Dave. I’m in the process of doing that very thing. Going light without sacrificing comfort. As well as reasonable price range. I like the idea of common man mentality. Looking forward to seeing what you find out.
Hello David Im watching learning and looking forward to upcoming videos. . I appreciate what you are doing and your school..enjoy the campfire David..👍
Hey Dave, I recently started doing a similar experiment. I started rucking with a Vietnam era metal frame pack and I was bring a hatchet, saw, and knife. I’ve recently purchased a new pack and I stopped carrying the hatchet and a few other things. My old pack weight with everything except food and water was around 45 pounds and the new pack after cutting some items out is down to around 30. I look forward to your results in the up coming videos. Thank you for everything you do.
I always want to have a good intersection of both bushcraft skills and UL gear. I'm glad you started exploring some UL stuff Dave! One of the reasons I do not like dyneema and nylon is that unlike wool and wax canvas, you cannot sleep beside a fire. I like fire for its warmth and ASMR sound as I go to sleep.
In the northeast, weather presents a definite weight problem for anyone who can't stand to be cold, especially at night. If you are unable by necessity to carry a heavy pack, you are pretty much done. You might talk about shared responsibility in a hiking situation and who should be able to do it. I am 78 years of age and just cannot carry a heavy load anymore. Being a cancer survivor hasn't helped at all. However, IF the loadout is well intentioned, and reasonable, it could work.
You are a modern day Kephart. I will be truly interested to watch this progress, and I would LOVE to read it as a book. "The Shadow of Nessmuk" would be a great title! Anxious to see what you do in the way of food as well. Have fun, and God Bless!
I have the Frulift Abisko 45L...I'll trade ya :) The opening of this video sums up my mentality exactly, I go out there to enjoy myself. Training to keep skills sharp is important but on most of my outings I am not trying to overly test myself or prove anything, daily life does that enough! I want to get away from all of that and just unwind in the woods whether camping, hunting, fishing, etc. Anything that makes that more enjoyable is a good thing in my book including lighter weight gear with modern materials. If Nessmuk or Kephart would have had access to those materials, I bet they would have darn sure used them too!
Very Informative video!!! Finding ways of going lighter without losing your perspective. David, I want to say a big THANK YOU!!! to you and your staff. This summer I had the opportunity to take your survival course and as a city boy let me tell you... it was an eye-opening experience for me! The various topics that I learned will be ingrained in me for life and have given me a love for the woods. The course has also honestly opened and exposed some of my weaknesses that although I learned and overcame those challenges will still be more of continuing education for me. Your course is absolutely NO JOKE. You will learn survival or die trying, hahaha lol. The teachers were on point and effective. I am happy that I passed and I am looking forward to taking the intermediate class. Again, thank you.
Thanks Dave for another promising Series, I liked the Series of the Yurt, the Long Hunter, Budget Outfitter and the others. Watching this will have me thinking what I can use for my own Light/Ultra Light Camping/Hiking Gear. I am looking forward to the next video, thank you for all you have done for us and continue.
I’ve been doing the same thing as this video is about, I’ve got my summer pack down to 15 pounds without food and water. Just the absolute basics, no frills just a tarp, sleep bag, small metal grate for stove, 2 lighters, 5” blade, 240mm silky saw, first aid kit, cook kit, headlamp and my water filter is also my water bottle. For clothing I bring rain gear and a hoody for warmth and I always bring a book for those rainy days. Great video, can’t wait to see what you come up with maybe I can improve my set up
I am very interested I see where this goes. Having been in Search and Rescue for a while, it is always cool to see a new approach to this concept. I use mix of older heavier gear and newer expensive ultralight gear for my SAR pack.
If you want to reflect on some old-timey ultra-light thru-hiking, check out Grandma (Emma) Gatewood. I was with the "go heavy or go home" crowd, humping a 40# base kit + 2-3 weeks of food (my goal was to avoid the modern world as long as possible), but you go ahead and hike your own hike. These days, by the grace of God, the AT is still just a mile through the woods off my back porch, and it's still the love of my life, but after many years of weathering I've discovered a better appreciation for trimming a few pounds when I hear the call of the wild. This old dog's looking forward to learning a few new tricks, and I'm glad you're sharing the magic with us, brother. [=-Hawk->][MEGA2K]
Love this video. Glad youre expanding and evolving. I watch these same hiking youtubers daily. Tool heavy people will have to rethink their choice of gear. And in the long run will take better care of their body. And enjoy their time out.
Nessmuk: “The temptation to buy this or that bit of indispensable camp-kit has been too strong, and we have gone to the blessed woods, handicapped with a load fit for a pack mule. This is not how to do it. Go light; the lighter the better, so that you have the simplest material for health, comfort and enjoyment.”
A blending of ultra light through hiking & bush crafting is what I’m trying to accomplish.
Thanks Dave !!!
Totally agree. As a guy that can't carry very much, to begin with, let alone a long distance, I've always had this struggle.
Noble goal. Looking forward to the series. As we said in the Infantry, "travel light, freeze at night".
Once I hit 50 I realised that to enjoy nature as I'd previously done I'd have to carry less or lighter. Luckily experience allowed me to use my skills to carry what I really needed rather than what I thought I wanted. I eagerly await the rest of the series.
I'm 63,,, and still downsizing
Thinkn about getting a pack mule,, thataway i can go super ultralite !!
Here I am moving from my ultra light roots to using more wool, canvas, stainless steel and military surplus and Dave is going the other way! I love this time of year for Dave’s videos. It’s when he really gets creative and pumps out awesome content. Looking forward to this series
That's probably your most admirable trait: you're always looking to learn more. You don't have a "one way to do things" mentality and you don't mind looking in new/unexpected places for knowledge. Something we could all learn from
Looking forward to this series. “Journals of the Yurt” greatest series EVER!!!’
Hey stranger!
I agree
seller559 By far best thing I’ve encountered on any channel. Wish there has been few more episodes at end.
The "21st Century Longhunter" series was my favorite and to me the most educational.
i totally agree!
greetings from cologne, germany
arthur
This is gonna be a good series, looking forward to it.
Dave I have watched you for years and hearing you talk about weight and ultralight is a trip! However love that you are willing to think outside your comfort zone and truly experience any and all things for your trade! You are without question a living legend, and I love watching all of your series!! 🏕
I have been thinking along these lines myself. I am in 50s and I suffer from paratrooper/infantry knees and hips. Last year I hiked the Grand Canyon and realized that for short stomps into the bush my old Army gear is great. But, if I want to put in some miles, I am carrying too much weight.
All of that to say... thanks and I look forward to watching this series.
This looks like it’s going to be a great series! Can’t wait for more!
Love you Dave! As I get older I keep trying to lighten and lessen. Keep recreating Brother. Thanks for your great work!
As usual, you are on the right track brother. At 65, I couldn't agree more. Thanks for your wisdom and experience. I look forward to this like I look forward to all you produce. Those of us in this community are indebted to you. Your efforts and passion are benefiting so many.. Thanks.
I did a 30 day trek across NZ with a day pack. Was able to push 50mpd and had all the freedom in the world. Food was oats and powdered milk, 5-7 day ration. Full wet weight probably 12-15lbs. Comfort is very heavy and a bit of an illusion. Everything is delicious if you're hungry and everywhere is comfortable if you're tired.
One must remember that Nessmuk had a reason for minimal packing, he was 5'3 and weighed 98 -104 lbs. if he packed 40lbs that would be the same as an average man packing 60 - 80 lbs. Your goal of 25 lbs or less would equal a goal of 16 lbs for Nessmuk. (George Sears)
His Rushton (sp?) Boat is in the Blue Mountain Lake Museum. A modern copy is available from Hornbeck.
Hey Dave, looking forward to seeing how you are going to incorporate the 10 C's and Ultra Lightweight Backpacking together.
I'm a disabled vet, on a fixed income (disability). This new series has my interest, I am looking for ways to"get back in the woods. So weight vs cost is VERY important to me and my goals. Yes, hunting, trapping, fishings, and camping are my side goals to include. I can't wait to see more of these videos. Please share items that you considered in making your choices so that folks with income constraints can have options on cost vs weight. Even short term solutions that would require replacement, could give me the opportunity to return vs just wishing from at home. I would only be looking at small hiking distances due to my handicap restrictions (nerve and leg impairments).
Can't wait to see where this series takes us. Was fishing one day, met a woman hiking the (GET) Great Eastern Trail, she did'nt look like she was packing much of anything. I saw online she completed the hike, Kathy Finch was her name and was the first to do it from North to South. I offered her a can of Vienna's, said she never ate them before. Also give her a headlamp with strap. She gladly took them. All the best and great series.
This is something I've been attempting to blend over the last decade. I've been taking bits from you as well as backpackers in an attempt to find a middle ground. Can't wait to watch your series. Thanks for all you do!
I like the cooler weather and rely on snuggling to the fire under a tarp instead of carrying heavy shelter and sleep system. I simply gather downed long trees/logs and quickly strip as much loose bark as possible to keep smoke down. After I build my initial fire lay with whatever is small and dry like leaves, twigs and small branches (no axe) I simply drag in the uncut logs as I'm awake every 2 hours anyway. It's not a super comfy sleep but I get enough and as the nights go on you sleep more as you become more tired. It works in the right areas. In the eastern woodlands of Virginia there is no shortage of fire materials. Enjoyed this one Dave!
I do not see people doing this any more, but it works.
Build a fire, move it over and sleep on the warm spot.
Repeat as needed.
My old dog was always ready to hog that warm spot! Chris
@@christophergallagher531 Or dig a shallow hole, start fire in it and cover hot coals with dirt... enjoy your warm night!
I applaud you Dave for discussing and taking on this video project series. I have always looked at many Bushcraft channels and some folks talk about gear and pack weight but they do not show or explain exactly what you stated about take down and repack and travel for another camp location. I look forward to each new video you present. Keep up the great educational teachings you do.
This should be yet another great series. Looking forward to watching them. Thanks again for sharing .
yeehaw, my favourite contemporary talking about my favourite oldtimer.
brother, in my book you already have a place among types like hearne, bridger, nessmuk and beard.
just continue being you, and i'll continue to rejoice.
I could listen to you sit in the woods and talk allday. Quality stuff bud. Can't wait for the next. Thank you for all you do sir.
as a serious ultralight backpacker this video is pretty good. 120 to thru hike the at is pretty fast also. thats 18 miles per day average and NO zeros. few do it that fast. more like 150-180. a few do it in 120 though. great vid!
Due to health reasons, most of this stuff is way beyond my capabilities. However, I find your videos very informative and entertaining. Thank you for all the effort you put into bringing this information to an "armchair bushcrafter" such as myself. Keep it up; keep safe; and keep breathin'.
Hey,
I hope you still get out there. I got old ahead of time over a major stroke. Did not see that coming.
My heart is unhappy, and I had to relearn how to walk, but I am out there. I went from 53#s to 27 for a basic 3 nighter.
I always have and extra day's food and now use a 2# bear canister.
It can be done! Trecking poles are my friend. Be well Chris
Great idea Dave,I’m in and thank you for all the time you invest in producing great videos
Fun spin! The historical woods mans methods have always have been a highlight of watching and listening to your channel. I can’t wait to see how your experience and ideas can improve the ultralight camping world.
I agree with everything you said, man. I've "cross bred" my load out between bushcraft and ultralight awhile back and it makes a major difference for me.
Hey Dave, I'm an (ultralight) AT thru-hiker as well as a lover of your videos and traditional, durable gear. I've been trying to balance the two mindsets of weight vs durability for a long time. I'm REALLY looking forward to seeing what you come up with!
Awesome Dave! This is a process I've been fine tuning for years and I'm excited to see your approach to it. Some of these thru hikers start out with 8lb base weights but at that point they've sacrificed not only durability but utility and comfort to maximize specificity. Travel light, freeze at night is a trope at this point but still true. My pack weight generally hovers around 25-36 lbs including food and water depending on how many days I'm going out and what I'm doing, and that's with a German military ruck. I always use a mixture of modern lightweight gear with military surplus items, partly because I'm just a sucker for militaria but also because its tested, durable and generally very cost effective . I did a rim to rim to rim Grand Canyon trip earlier this year over 5 days and my pack weight at the beginning was 31lbs including food, water and trekking poles. I had to get creative with clothing too because there was snow on the north and south rims but 80° at the bottom. The only essential kit item I didn't bring that I normally carry was my folding saw. Point of all this is to say, 25lb base weight is definitely doable without sacrificing durability or utility. Enjoy the journey!
Looking forward to this series. i am an ultralight hiker and I practice wildnerness survival/bushcraft/prepping/self-reliance. I've watched your videos on youtube almost since day 1 ... and your 10 c's is what clicked for me because I realized sans the sail needle ...that's mostly what I've carried hiking since the 1980's. I own an entire house and shed full of everything from cheap gear to the highest end gear money can buy for hiking, bushcraft, survival, etc. Some gear easily cross over between those skill sets while some not so much (there is basically little chance I would need a saw, bushcraft knife, or ax on a long distance hike). Lighter gear is also way better on my bodies joints ... I mean, even though I work out every day and have for years, walking long distances is still using muscles your body doesn't use every day and it quickly takes its toll on you. Doing a long distance hike is not only tough on the body....but more so mentally than physically. A lot of people have no problems doing a weekend bushcraft camp .... but strap on 30-40 lbs and go live with that on your back for weeks at a time every day and the mental part will destroy you long before your body gives out.
Nessmuk taught me to simply my life. Darwin on the Trail stresses what works for him. Bigfoot shows us the the joy of just being out there. Hopefully Dave’s series will teach us how to accomplish a journey with a purpose (hunting, fishing, etc). The overlap of these styles should show us what we personally need to accomplish our goals and still smooth it rather than rough it. Nessmuk’s words, not mine. Stay safe!
Good News!
I have been pointing out how Sears, after returning from the war between the States used the most modern gear he could get his hands on.
While revering you folks keeping anachronistic knowledge in practice, I am grateful for modern gear.
With help from folks like Darwin on the Trail, my basic 3-4 day 3 season 'all up weight' went from 53 pounds to 28. This is not from the skin out, and sans hunting gear.
My old 63# winter kit is evolving now.
Thank You. I am looking forward to
'In the Shadow of Nessmuck'!
Chris
I was never sure why he did that. For sure he did.
Look forward to the series Dave. I like very much what Nessmuk said in his Camping and Wood craft book " We go out to the woods to smooth it, we have it rough enough back in town". That's been my philosophy for years now. Have still been searching for the "Holy Grail" of lightweight equipment that I can carry on my back to make my experience smooth as possible.
Good explanation of your concept. I hope everyone gets it and doesn’t hammer you with all the complaints about the ideas you just explained. What you are discussing here is a high level, advanced form of outdoor adventures. We will see......
Very much looking forward to this series. Thanks Dave. Mixing bushcraft and a focus on light carry is what I am looking for these days.
Can't wait Dave!! You're videos light a fire under my butt every time! Thanks for all you do.
Good discussion Dave. Looking forward to watching your experiences .
Your looking good Dave, its been really cool watching you over the years, ive learned so much from you man, I just wanted to say Thank you, and I appreciate it, ive passed most of what you've taught me to my son...
Thanks for sharing Dave!! This is gonna be a good series cant wait for more. I like that fact that you're learning from ultra lite backpackers. We as bushcraft and all outdoorsmen can learn from every outdoor person. Hunters, camper, hikers,and of course follow bushcrafters. Thanks again.
I could never thru-hike, but I do enjoy watching Darwin and others. I like seeing how they do things and what gear they take. I only have a couple UL items, but I'm slowly working on it. I'll still have saw and pillow though 😂 I can't wait to see more of this.
Great lesson here. I am 63 yrs old and the idea of carrying a 60 lb pack on my back over any distances is just not gonna happen. Even 40lb is out of the question. My ultimate weight is perhaps 251bs although it may sound crazy i personally think it is doable.
Hi Dave. Great video, Great idea. I have read Nessmuks book, and have tried to follow his example. I will be watching for more of these video’s. I, personally like the more traditional items, even though they are usually a little heavier. That is what makes bushcraft so awesome, everyone can find his/her own nich Thanks again, Dave.
Im looking forward to watching this. For me its a want vs need vs $$$ vs safety vs weather. I found skills and knowledge play a role in wieght reduction as well.
See you in the next video
Call me a flower child, but at 76, a few years ago I had to choose between spending the money to go really light, or car camp. Made the choice to go light and haven't regretted a single dollar as I still can backpack. Really looking forward to this series!
Great introduction video Dave. Anxious to see what's coming in this series! Keep'em coming.....
Thanks 🙏 for going down this route! I’m really interested
Looking forward to this series.
I would love to get my packing system down to a more comfortable weight.
The best of both worlds. Traditional and modern tech. It's an and not a verses. You are going to love the Hammock Gear quilt, they make amazing products. You now have reliable shelter try ditching the axe. 5" knife good folding saw will get the job done. Great content as always. Enjoy the journey.
glad you are doing this , because it will give me a lot to work with and see where I can lighten up.
I am glad you are looking into this method. I have backpacked for years and find myself in the middle of ultra light weight and reasonable. I don’t cut the handle off my toothbrush or remove zipper pulls, but I am always looking for new gear that weighs a little less due to materials. Super excited about this series
Bushcraft and Ultralight. A worthy conversation. Glad to see you make that leap. Been down that rabbit trail myself. Can’t wait to see how you marry up the two philosophies and what you come up!
This playlist is exactly what I’m looking for
Sounds like this will be a great learning experience All of us and for you also. Like others have stated, I cant wait for the series
Looking forward to seeing this series evolve. Always enjoy the pathfinder, self-reliance stuff. The more you know, the less you have to carry.
This should be quite interesting. Especially seeing how things will break down to weight to get to that 25 pounds. Can't wait for the next series of videos!
Makes sense to me! Less weight, more power for the whole experience! Best of both worlds! Greetings from Germany!
Dave, this is going to be a very interesting series I feel. I'm 65 and my outdoor days are now limited by weather and weight. I've looked at lighter gear but in my opinion, not much in the way of Ultralight, as you've stated, is truly up to the challenge of our type of fieldwork. Many years ago, I did a goodly portion of the AT, (not all but most) and for the most part, I had access to lean-to shelters, fairly well-used clearings and near trail access to the woods. Not deep in the woods by any means. In those days, safety was enhanced by staying as close to the trail as was prudent. Now, as forever, knowledge is the tool to minimize gear, something you are very aware of. True bushcraft, the skills at least, came from learning the local indigenous ways of day to day "Survival" that defied, the societal conveniences and norms. Then too, the indigenous people banded together into tribes to improve the odds of everyone's survival, and everyone was taught those skills or the skills of their contribution to the tribe. Today, bushcraft and the modern practiced skills are about a unique individual's ability to smooth it, as you have said often, in small groups or solo outings. Gear has taken the place of skills and consumerism driven bushcraft surrounds us all. I am very interested to see if your "Core 3" will aid you in your quest to achieve lightweight functionality, durability, reliability, and enjoyability at the same time. Good luck and I wait breathlessly...
I don't understand English, but I still learn a lot from your videos. Thank you very much, here from Brazil.
Looking forward to it. I just did a 2 video series on this. Ended up less than 24lbs minus water without a Dyneema pricetag. Thanks for sharing !
You have me hooked and ready to watch the rest of this series with this into. I am already the type to carry Ultralight pack, quilt, tarp, titanium cookwear, and alcohol stove to save weight , but will add my Mora knife saw ,fishing and hunting gear to it. I enjoy practicing "traditional skils" while backpacking and mixing the modern skills and materials with the old. I am stoked to see what this series brings.
I am really looking forward to this series. Thank you.
Good stuff Mr. C. The dissonance between Ultra-Lite and Traditional gear proponents doesn't make sense. Both provide tools to achieve a goal effectively. Looking forward to this series
If I had to choose between you or Lundin, or any other survivalist you are and always have been my NUMBER ONE choice!
This will be a fun series to watch, Dave! When I've been out camping I've usually chosen comfort over weight, but in the last 2-3 years I've started to shift more over to lightweight gear that still has the durability to be worn/used for 5-10 days in the wild without breaking down. When I hunt I always go out in the morning and come home in the afternoon, so the weight there isn't really anything to consider
"Carry as little as possible, but choose that little with care."
- Earl Shaffer
Sounds like a great series. Thank you Dave.
I'm looking forward to the series.
Look forward to the rest of the series. Have enjoyed all of your videos thus far. I always have take aways.
Excellent! Thanks for the video Dave and for all the effort and time you invest and for sharing your findings and experience with us. Looking forward to following this series and learning some new ideas and concepts.
Thanks for the work you put in for us Dave.
Right on time Dave. I’m in the process of doing that very thing. Going light without sacrificing comfort. As well as reasonable price range. I like the idea of common man mentality. Looking forward to seeing what you find out.
Thank, thank you, for creating a series on this subject -Bushcraft UL-.
Looking forward to seeing your thought process on this subject.
Hello David Im watching learning and looking forward to upcoming videos. . I appreciate what you are doing and your school..enjoy the campfire David..👍
Hey Dave, I recently started doing a similar experiment. I started rucking with a Vietnam era metal frame pack and I was bring a hatchet, saw, and knife. I’ve recently purchased a new pack and I stopped carrying the hatchet and a few other things. My old pack weight with everything except food and water was around 45 pounds and the new pack after cutting some items out is down to around 30. I look forward to your results in the up coming videos. Thank you for everything you do.
I always want to have a good intersection of both bushcraft skills and UL gear. I'm glad you started exploring some UL stuff Dave! One of the reasons I do not like dyneema and nylon is that unlike wool and wax canvas, you cannot sleep beside a fire. I like fire for its warmth and ASMR sound as I go to sleep.
In the northeast, weather presents a definite weight problem for anyone who can't stand to be cold, especially at night. If you are unable by necessity to carry a heavy pack, you are pretty much done. You might talk about shared responsibility in a hiking situation and who should be able to do it. I am 78 years of age and just cannot carry a heavy load anymore. Being a cancer survivor hasn't helped at all. However, IF the loadout is well intentioned, and reasonable, it could work.
A whole new world now Dave....cant wait to watch...
You are a modern day Kephart. I will be truly interested to watch this progress, and I would LOVE to read it as a book. "The Shadow of Nessmuk" would be a great title!
Anxious to see what you do in the way of food as well. Have fun, and God Bless!
I have the Frulift Abisko 45L...I'll trade ya :) The opening of this video sums up my mentality exactly, I go out there to enjoy myself. Training to keep skills sharp is important but on most of my outings I am not trying to overly test myself or prove anything, daily life does that enough! I want to get away from all of that and just unwind in the woods whether camping, hunting, fishing, etc. Anything that makes that more enjoyable is a good thing in my book including lighter weight gear with modern materials. If Nessmuk or Kephart would have had access to those materials, I bet they would have darn sure used them too!
Thumbs up Dave... there are times for ultra light and times for not! Looking forward to your take
I like the ultralight thought process and the way you explained it. Excited to see future videos.
Looking forward 2 more , and that's awesome , really enjoying your openmindness, peace Gb
Very Informative video!!! Finding ways of going lighter without losing your perspective.
David, I want to say a big THANK YOU!!! to you and your staff. This summer I had the opportunity to take your survival course and as a city boy let me tell you... it was an eye-opening experience for me!
The various topics that I learned will be ingrained in me for life and have given me a love for the woods. The course has also honestly opened and exposed some of my weaknesses that although I learned and overcame those challenges will still be more of continuing education for me.
Your course is absolutely NO JOKE. You will learn survival or die trying, hahaha lol. The teachers were on point and effective. I am happy that I passed and I am looking forward to taking the intermediate class.
Again, thank you.
Thanks Dave for another promising Series, I liked the Series of the Yurt, the Long Hunter, Budget Outfitter and the others. Watching this will have me thinking what I can use for my own Light/Ultra Light Camping/Hiking Gear. I am looking forward to the next video, thank you for all you have done for us and continue.
CAN'T WAIT! As I age, my packs become lighter and lighter. I look forward to some direction in this series! Thanks, Dave!
Good stuff Dave, thanks. Change is good as long as you don’t compromise your values, and you won’t I’m sure
I just got back from an elk hunt and this is the approach I want to take next year. I can't wait for more videos in this series!
I’ve been doing the same thing as this video is about, I’ve got my summer pack down to 15 pounds without food and water. Just the absolute basics, no frills just a tarp, sleep bag, small metal grate for stove, 2 lighters, 5” blade, 240mm silky saw, first aid kit, cook kit, headlamp and my water filter is also my water bottle. For clothing I bring rain gear and a hoody for warmth and I always bring a book for those rainy days. Great video, can’t wait to see what you come up with maybe I can improve my set up
About Dang Time Dave!!! Those Cast Iron Skillets on the AT have been killing my back...LOL....
I am very interested I see where this goes. Having been in Search and Rescue for a while, it is always cool to see a new approach to this concept. I use mix of older heavier gear and newer expensive ultralight gear for my SAR pack.
This series is right in my wheelhouse Dave thanks for posting it.
It's late as hell but now I have to watch this, thanks Dave, great video
Also, I'm pretty sure I'm first
Awesome series idea dave. Looking forward to this one!
Pretty excited to see some bushcraft/ backpacking intersection.
If you want to reflect on some old-timey ultra-light thru-hiking, check out Grandma (Emma) Gatewood. I was with the "go heavy or go home" crowd, humping a 40# base kit + 2-3 weeks of food (my goal was to avoid the modern world as long as possible), but you go ahead and hike your own hike. These days, by the grace of God, the AT is still just a mile through the woods off my back porch, and it's still the love of my life, but after many years of weathering I've discovered a better appreciation for trimming a few pounds when I hear the call of the wild. This old dog's looking forward to learning a few new tricks, and I'm glad you're sharing the magic with us, brother. [=-Hawk->][MEGA2K]
Love this video. Glad youre expanding and evolving. I watch these same hiking youtubers daily. Tool heavy people will have to rethink their choice of gear. And in the long run will take better care of their body. And enjoy their time out.
the joys of getting old lol
Really looking forward to the next one here. Interesting topic - highly relevant to me and my outdoors activities. Great one Dave!
It's about time! I'm very excited to see you're finally looking at some ultralight gear. Can't wait to see the coming videos.