OFFGRIDWEB.

COM • ISSUE 57

OVERLAND
MEDICAL HERBS
AND PLANTS
HOW TO SURVIVE
A FLASH FLOOD
VEHICLE
EMERGENCY KIT
OVERLAND
EXPERT Q&A
CONTENTS ISSUE 57

DEPARTMENTS FEATURES

8 Editor’s Letter 36 One-Track Mind

Blaze a Trail Getting Up Close and Personal
with Craig Caudill’s Tracking
10 Gear Up Fundamentals
The Latest and Greatest
Products 44 Durable Devices
The New Juggernaut Case ENDVR,
36
14 Pocket Preps ADVNTR, and OPRTR Provide
Cutlery and Culinary Scalable Protection for Your Phone
Tools 44
50 Beast of Burden
18 What If? Global Expedition Vehicles’ Pangea-
You’re Stranded on a LT Offers the Comforts of an RV on
Flooded Jeep Trail? an LMTV 4x4 Military Truck Chassis

26 Survival Spotlight 56 Overland Expert Q&A

Raul Martinez Jr. of Clay and Rachelle Croft of XOverland
Rogue Methods Discuss Vehicles, Gear, Skills, and
Lessons Learned from Traveling the
62 Health World
Medicinal Garden

70 Hands On
Dometic CFX3 55IM
12-Volt Fridge

78 Bag Drop
Bayou Bug-Out Bag 50

80 The Final Weapon

Low-Profile Carbine

82 The Last Page

Review of Rules for
Radicals: A Pragmatic
Primer for Realistic
Radicals Recoil OFFGRID (ISSN 2475-1952), August/
September 2023; Number 57, is published
bimonthly by CMG West, LLC 5583 W.
Waterford Ln., Suite D, Appleton, WI 54913.
Copyright © 2023 by CMG West, LLC. All
Product Disclaimer Rights Reserved. Periodicals Postage Paid at
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featured in RECOIL OFFGRID are set by the subscription inquiries and customer service,
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7896. POSTMASTER: Send all UAA to CFS. (See 56
are subject to change without notice.
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Throughout this issue you will FACILITIES: send address changes to Recoil
see certain images are labeled OFFGRID, PO Box 531, Williamsport, PA 17703.
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ON THE
ISSUE 57

1. Shirt 3. Pants 5. Watch

Make: Beyond Clothing Make: Beyond Clothing Make: ProTek

COVER Model: Todra Crew (Manatee Grey)

MSRP: $40
URL: beyondclothing.com
Model: Makers L5 Pant (Kona)
MSRP: $100
URL: beyondclothing.com
Model: Dive Series 2001
MSRP: $475
URL: protekwatch.com

2. Jacket 4. Rain Shell 6. Folding Knife

Make: Beyond Clothing Make: Beyond Clothing Make: Benchmade
Model: A5 Rig Light Jacket (Coyote) Model: Yuba Ultralight L6 Rain Anorak (Black) Model: Mini Crooked River Custom
MSRP: $429 MSRP: $285 with OFFGRID logo
URL: beyondclothing.com URL: beyondclothing.com MSRP: $370
URL: benchmade.com

7. Fixed Blade
Make: Benchmade
Model: Anonimus
MSRP: $310
URL: benchmade.com

8. Cargo Case
Make: Pelican
9

08

4
023
Model: BX140R
MSRP: $480
URL: pelican.com

7
 10

12

11

9. Recovery Tools
Make: Maxtrax
Model: Kinetic Rope and Fuse Soft Shackles
3 4 MSRP: $165 / $43
URL: maxtraxus.com

10. Portable Battery

Make: Dometic
Model: PLB40
MSRP: $850
URL: dometic.com

11. 12V Fridge

Make: Dometic
Model: CFX3 55IM
MSRP: $1,080
URL: dometic.com

12. Folding Table

Make: Dometic
Model: GO Compact Camp Table
MSRP: $200
URL: dometic.com
ISSUE 57

OFFGRIDWEB.COM 007
008
ISSUE 57
EDITOR’SLETTER

By Patrick McCarthy

“We must not cease from exploration. And the end of all our elle Croft, the creators of XOverland. They’ve spent years traveling
exploring will be to arrive where we began and to know the place through remote parts of the world, from Baja California to Scandina-
for the first time.” — T. S. Eliot via, in their custom-built trucks and SUVs.
Elsewhere in the issue, we delve into the pros and cons of one
I’m often asked about the meaning of OFFGRID in RECOIL OFF- reader’s ultimate overland vehicle, a massive GXV Pangea LT based
GRID. The dictionary definition indicates a separation from the munici- on an LMTV military truck chassis. There’s also a Hands On review
pal grid, i.e., public utilities such as electricity and water. In a broader of a Dometic mobile refrigerator, a vehicle survival kit build in
sense, going off-grid means independence from society as a whole, our Bag Drop column, and a Pocket Preps buyer’s guide for camp
or in other words, self-reliance. Another interpretation relates to going kitchen cutlery you can use on the trail. Returning contributor Dean
beyond the map grid into remote places far from urban civilization. Freeman wrote about search and rescue lessons learned from a
If you’ve been reading this magazine for a while, you should tracking class, and Dr. Joe Alton shared a guide to medicinal herbs
know that every one of these definitions is relevant to what we do. and plants you can grow at home.
Many of our issues have specifically addressed separating from the Last but certainly not least, we interviewed Raul Martinez of Rogue
power grid and other forms of infrastructure — check out Issues Methods about survival lessons he learned from his time on the vio-
44, 47, and 52 for a few examples. And every single issue of RECOIL lent streets of Chicago and the battlefields of Iraq. I also attended one
OFFGRID covers the unifying theme of self-reliance. For this issue of Raul’s classes and wrote about my takeaways in my Final Weapon
in particular, we’re focusing on the third interpretation: going off column at the end of the issue.
the grid into remote places. This is often called adventure travel or Whether you call it overlanding, adventure travel, or simply get-
when 4x4 vehicles are involved, overlanding. ting off the grid, you should never stop exploring. Don’t be afraid to
The issue begins with a What If? scenario about a father and go beyond the beaten path — the knowledge and experience you
daughter who find themselves trapped in a flash flood on a remote acquire there will be far more valuable than anything you can absorb
Jeep trail. Survival instructor Kevin Estela and overland expert Rick through the screen on your phone, laptop, or TV. And as always, be
Stowe shared their thoughts on how to deal with those dangerous sure to plan for the worst-case scenarios so you can travel with the
circumstances. You can also read my interview with Clay and Rach- unwavering confidence that only preparedness can bring.
 Editorial.
Editor-in-Chief/ Iain Harrison
Editor, RECOIL OFFGRID/ Patrick McCarthy
Managing Editor/ Laura Peltakian
Features Editor/ Dave Merrill
Contributing Editor/ Steven Kuo
Contributing Editor/ Patrick Diedrich
Network Manager/ Tom Marshall
Web Editor/ David Lane
Contributors/ Amy Alton, Joe Alton, Katie Culpepper, Kevin Estela,
W. Dean Freeman, Brad Gilpin, Mike Searson, Rick Stowe

Art Direction & Design.

Senior Art Director/ Gene Coo This magazine is purchased by the buyer
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Senior Designer/ Tris Mast presented is from various sources from
which there can be no warranty or responsi-
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to legality, completeness and accuracy.
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All Rights Reserved.
010
1A/2A: CONGRESS SHALL
GEARUP
MAKE & MODEL MAKE & MODEL MAKE & MODEL MAKE & MODEL
1 Tuff Possum 2 SureFire 3 Bear & Son Cutlery 4 Outdoor Element
The Entry Kit EDC1-DFT Bear Edge 61125 Contour Feather
Adventure Survival Knife
WEIGHT COLORS BLADE LENGTH
2.1 ounces Black, Tan 4.25 inches WEIGHT
3.2 ounces
MSRP MSRP MSRP
$106 $259 $70 MSRP
$45
URL URL URL
tuffpossumgear.com surefire.com bearandsoncutlery.com URL
outdoorelement.com
NOTES NOTES NOTES
Imagine something as simple as small, SureFire has brought back their legacy Born of the collaborative efforts of NOTES
interlocking metal bits keeping you or Turbo line, which focuses on high-can- several elite military operators, the There are a few key items that can be
your loved ones from food, medical dela lights that have lately become all Professional Outdoorsman Precision carried into the wilderness that’ll keep
supplies, or shelter during a disaster. the rage. The first relaunches in the Skinner (POPS) MK2P is a nearly you alive. These can include something
Tuff Possum has considered this and Turbo line were updated versions of their invincible knife for serious use. to cut with, a way to start a fire, and a
put together a compact solution. classic weapon lights, the Scout and CNC ground from CPM 3V steel, the signaling device to communicate with
The Entry Kit has a tool for many of the X300. Now they’re putting this same 0.210-inch-thick blade can withstand loved ones or rescue workers. But why
the most common locks that may be power in your pocket with the EDC1-DFT. serious abuse without flinching. carry three different things when you
encountered in an emergency situation. The name says it all; it’s an everyday Gunfighter Design incorporates could simply carry one? Outdoor enthu-
The EZ Card is used like a credit card carry light that runs on a single power its Double Thumb Relief into the siast and mastermind behind Outdoor
to bypass latches. Also provided in the cell. Featuring SureFire’s dual-fuel tech- blade for a higher level of control Element, Michael Mojica, has designed a
credit card-sized Entry Kit holder is nology, this light can accept either one when you have to get work done in knife that does just that. Tucked within
the Covert Bypass Multi-Tool, an array rechargeable 18350 or one single-use tight places. G10 handle slabs give this 6.3-inch, 3.2-ounce knife is a 115dB
of jigglers and comb-picks, Quick Stick CR123. Peak output with an 18350 cell is the MK2P better durability over survival whistle, a custom hex ferro rod,
Pro for cheaper foreign locks or filing 650 lumens and 95,000 candela, which other handle materials, and hollow and a 1/4-inch hex driver. To get a stron-
cabinets, and two EZ Decoders for is impressive for a light that measures titanium handle pins make it easy ger spark, the ferro rod can be screwed
locks with a row of spinning numbers less than 5 inches and weighs under 5 to add a lanyard or lash the blade into a forward-facing position, and the
or letters. To tackle the more complex ounces. As is proper with a well-rounded into a fixed position. The blade itself Kydex sheath has an integrated ceramic
picking tasks, The Entry Kit includes a EDC light, there’s also a 25-lumen low is 3.5 inches long, with an overall sharpener to keep a keen edge on the
six-piece Lockpick Set that features a mode ideal for administrative tasks. The length of 8 inches, making it a fixed 2-inch VG10 steel blade. Each Contour
Short Hook, Half Diamond, City Rake, clicky tail cap is refreshingly simple: blade that’s not overly cumbersome. Feather sheath has a heavy-duty clip
Hollow Half-Diamond, Triple Peak Large half-hold for momentary, full-press to A point is machined into the design and plenty of grommets to tie into place,
Wave, and Five Peak Small wave. To click into constant on. A second half-tap of the hilt for glass-breaking pur- or allow the blade to be worn as a neck
top it all off, three Longhorn Ten- will get you to low mode. The high-then- poses, and the custom Kydex sheath knife. The Contour's price is also nothing
sion Wrenches of varying thicknesses low program is fixed, so you always have makes it easy to conceal the blade to sneeze at considering the versatility
complete the whole package. Stowed full power on tap for emergencies. in pocket, pack, or vehicle. it brings to the table.
conveniently in a custom leather
pouch, it could be easily accessible
whenever you need it most.
2
3

4
 MAKE & MODEL MAKE & MODEL MAKE & MODEL MAKE & MODEL
5 Woods Monkey 6 MPOWERD 7 Maven 8 ETA
Medium Monkey Board Luci Beam 2-in-1 Solar CRF.1 6x22 Water Filter Bottle
Headlamp and Flashlight
DIMENSIONS RANGE COLORS
5 by 6 inches LUMENS 5-2,400 yards Orange, White
300
MSRP MSRP MSRP
$25 MSRP $295 $69
$65
URL URL URL
woodsmonkey.com URL mavenbuilt.com etaliving.com
mpowerd.com
NOTES NOTES NOTES
EDC should be easily accessible, but NOTES In the field, distance can be deceiving, Water, or rather clean potable water,
placing things in your pockets every Going on a camping trip, late evening which is problematic when trying to and its importance to the human body
day can make it confusing, especially hike, or enduring a power outage estimate how far one needs to travel or cannot be overemphasized. Every year,
if you don't wear the exact same doesn’t have to mean roughing it like a shoot. Being able to take the guesswork a large swath of the entire population
clothes day in and day out. Woods primitive Neanderthal. Modern life and out of determining how far away some- of Earth struggles with finding a clean
Monkey, a company that believes in all of its high-tech gear can be a huge thing is a game-changing capability. source of water. In North America,
tactical organization, came up with a advantage in just about every outdoor The Maven CRF.1 -6x22 is a lightweight, in particular, powerful storms and
solution that’s elegant in its simplicity, or emergency preparedness situation. compact, laser range-finding monocular failing infrastructure regularly leave
the Monkey Board. Monkey Boards are MPOWERD is keeping all of that techno that has the potential to make that next thousands wondering if their drinking
made from lightweight and durable wizardry up and running with a slew outdoor excursion a more successful water is safe to drink. To help mitigate
Kydex, and are easily integrated with of solar-powered charging and lighting one. Its dimensions are 4.3 by 2.9 by 1.9 this recurring problem, the com-
both MOLLE and Tek-Lok systems. They devices, including one of their latest, inches, about the same size as an aver- pany ETA offers an American-made,
come in three sizes — large, medium, the 2-in-1 Solar Headlamp. The base of age adult hand, and weighs 8 ounces. reusable water bottle that houses a
and small — and can be fixed in place the 2-in-1 has a solar panel for daylight The laser can find the range of objects filtration system. It has been indepen-
to a piece of gear, or used to hold charging and has an integrated micro- between 5 and 2,400 yards away, has dently tested and shown to remove
EDC items reliably in a pocket. Elastic USB port. This makes the base both line-of-sight and angle compensation, visual, chemical, dissolved particulate,
cords can be used to strap things chargeable from an outlet before you and a built-in forest mode for readings and even radiological contaminants
like a tourniquet, flashlight, or wallet, need it and can be used as a portable in heavier vegetation. If a more stable from water. The Water Filter bottle
and the variety and placement of power bank when the outlet fails or is platform is needed, there’s a fitting can be used to improve the quality of
mounting systems makes each Monkey unavailable. The base is magnetically that’ll attach the CRF.1 to a bipod or drinking water and remove unpleasant
Board endlessly customizable. Instead clipped to an adjustable headband, and tripod, and it’s water resistant so a taste and odor. The bottle itself has
of fumbling for that loose pocket or a multi-function light is magnetically little precipitation won't get in the way 28 ounces of capacity, and the filter
backpacking gear, now you can just clipped to the base. All three pieces of getting things done. There are three has a lifespan of up to 100 gallons.
grab a Monkey Board, and everything can be detached and interchanged reticle options, one that resembles a The cap has a large, built-in lanyard
is readily accessible on your own depending on how the light needs to crosshair, an open box, and a single dot, loop to clip easily with a carabiner or
customized Kydex pallet. be used. When fully charged and set depending on what the targeting needs rope and the bottle is made from BPA-
to the high mode, its full 300 lumens are, and the display can be in either free materials that don’t leach into
will last about two hours, but when it’s auto black or red. the water being filtered.
set to the low mode (10 lumens), it can
last as long as 24 hours. It has both
white and red LED lights, can flex 90
degrees, and the magnetic clips makes
it attachable to anything a magnet
will stick to.

7
8
ISSUE 57

OFFGRIDWEB.COM 011
012
1A/2A: MAKE NO LAW OFFGRIDWEB.COM

MAKE & MODEL MAKE & MODEL MAKE & MODEL MAKE & MODEL
9 Backpacker's Pantry 10 Litefighter 11 Plano 12 Salewa
Emergency Meal Kit Fido 2 AI Field Locker Element Pedroc Powertex
Tactical Gun Case
MEALS SEASONS COLORS
18 3/4 COLOR Black/Black, Blue/Java Blue,
Black Brown/Golden Brown
MSRP MSRP
$88 $586 MSRP MSRP
$300 $180
URL URL
backpackerspantry.com litefighter.com URL URL
planooutdoors.com salewa.com
NOTES NOTES
Making it through a natural disaster or Exposure is a leading cause of fatalities NOTES NOTES
food shortage comfortably means hav- when people venture into the Great Moving firearms from one destina- Proper footwear is something that’s
ing enough calories to see you through Outdoors. This is due in part to un- tion to another is sometimes easier neglected far too often. And since most
strenuous activity levels. Fortunately, derestimating the weather and being said than done. With a multitude of ambulatory people spend most of their
the days of having to meticulously grow unprepared to withstand its shifting government agencies issuing de- time moving around on them, finding
and preserve your own food are behind changes. Having a reliable shelter sys- mands about how a firearm should the right shoe for the right occasion is
us for the time being. Backpackers tem can mean the difference between be carried in any given situation, an important endeavor. However, not all
Pantry has put together a FEMA recom- life and death, and LiteFighter is keeping having a robust case that checks all shoes are created equal, and wearing
mended three-day meal kit with enough outdoorsmen and women alive with their the boxes is a must. Designed with something inappropriate for where
options and variety to keep your palate Fido range of sleeping systems. The modern firearms in mind, the Field you may be traveling on foot could
happy. Six breakfasts and 12 entrees Fido 2 AI (All In) sleeps two people with Locker Element Tactical Gun Case is lead to some serious injuries. If you're
are packed into a conveniently sized their gear comfortably and can squeeze a heavy-duty firearms transporta- feeling adventurous, Salewa's Pedroc
box, perfect for long-term emergency a 90x54-inch tent (with all the stakes, tion solution that can protect your Powertex may be the shoe you need.
storage or for your next camping trip. poles and rain flys) into a 19x8-inch platform from a barrage of ele- This was designed specifically for fast
Included in the Emergency Meal Kit are MOLLE pack. If the Fido 2 is packed with ments. Interior dimensions are 44 hiking and was built to keep your feet
two Granola with Bananas, Almonds & everything included in the kit, it weighs by 15 by 6.4 inches, and two durable cool and protected for less technical
Milk, two Blueberry Walnut Oats, two approximately 9.5 pounds, but can be wheels are built into the exterior speed-hiking and climbing applications.
Rocky Mountain Scramble, two Pad Thai scaled down depending on the expected for ease of transportation. This TSA- The rip-stop mesh upper is durable
with Chicken, two Fettuccini Alfredo with climate conditions to weigh only 5.9 approved case has a sealed exterior, and resistant to scratching and tearing
Chicken, one Shepherd's Potato Stew pounds. The base color of the tent, and protecting up to two firearms from when moving over rocks or tough brush,
with Beef, and one Lasagna. There’s also the MultiCam rain fly blends in to wide harmful dust and moisture. On the and a Powertex membrane protects
a Vegetarian Emergency Meal Kit avail- range of environments, which is great inside, double density, customiz- your feet from moisture while allowing
able as an alternative. Each meal has if the Fido is being used for a bugout able foam keeps your firearms them to breathe. The Pedroc Powertex
a potential shelf-life of up to 10 years, situations, and it’s relatively quick to immobilized, and the built-in pres- also integrates Salewa's 3F system
making this an easy way to stay ready pitch and disassemble. Its cold weather sure equalizer prevents potential that connects the instep to the sole
for anything. kit includes four parachute stakes to an- damage from dramatic atmospheric and heal, which provides extra stability
chor the tent in snow or sand, and it has changes. Reinforced padlock gates when moving over uneven terrain.
9 keep the case secured and further
plenty of zippers and exposed netting to
get that perfect thermoregulation and protected from the elements when
moisture control on the inside. you're on the go.

11
12

10
Keep Your
Mags Close
TACULUS MX CHEST RIG $95
TM

®
)

®
014
1A/2A: RESPECTING
PocketPREPS
.

By Mike Searson

2
ost of us have friends or acquaintances who aren’t
“knife people” and don’t carry pocketknives, but
there’s one place they’re guaranteed to have at
least a half-dozen knives: the kitchen. Knives have
been used for food prep for thousands of years.
Although we mostly tend to segregate kitchen knives from everyday
carry knives, there really is no reason to do so. I’ve used my EDC knife to
cut meat in an Asian restaurant that only had chopsticks, and I’ve also
plucked steak knives off of tables for EDC in a few countries where knife
carrying is frowned upon.
You’re more likely to use a knife to cut a piece of food into smaller
pieces than to use one to defend your life in a violent attack. While most
knives can accomplish either task, it’s not a bad idea to look at add-
ing some multipurpose cutlery to your backpack. If a knife is intended
for culinary purposes and you can explain it accordingly, it may not be
perceived as a weapon in situations where a defense-oriented fixed blade
would be.
Stainless steels are what you want for the most part; this will prevent
staining due to acids from food and will stand up to repeated washing.
3
That said, it’s not recommended to place kitchen knives in the dishwash-
er. They should be cleaned by hand. Serrations are optional. A non-ser- 1
rated edge is easier to keep sharpened, but serrations will remain usable
without frequent sharpening.
A few of these options go beyond knife use and incorporate a spork or
a fork. I’ve used each one in the field as camp gear, as well as in high-end
restaurants on the Las Vegas Strip and other locales throughout the
United States.
Whether you need something for your bugout bag, camping back-
pack, or just to put in your pocket in case you arrive at a restaurant with
poor-quality steak knives, each of these designs has something to offer.
These are all great alternatives to disposable plastic cutlery that clogs
landfills and litters the ocean. All prices listed are MSRP. Quite a few of
these can be found on retail shopping sites for quite a bit cheaper.
016
1A/2A: AN ESTABLISHMENT
Pocket PREPS

Pineland Cutlery Gerber CRKT Benchmade Emerson Knives Spyderco TOPS Knives
Carnivore Dining Tri-Tip Eat’N Tool Titanium Table Knife Folding Steak Knife Spydie Chef Frog Market Special
Set
The Tri-Tip is essen- Knife designer and Benchmade has Emerson Knives Designed by re- The Frog Market
Pineland Cutlery is tially a pocket-sized gourmet chef Liong plunged into the built its reputation nowned Polish custom Special is based on a
a division of Spartan cleaver. Rather than Mah came up with kitchen knife field with by making knives for knifemaker Marcin design used by butch-
Blades USA, who just having the profile, this multi-tool. At first top-tier designs and U.S. Navy SEALs and Slysz, the Spydie ers and fishmongers
you may be familiar this one has that glance it looks like the materials, particularly drawing on historical Chef is an extremely in Hanoi, Vietnam. The
with for their badass weighted feel that familiar spoon/fork with their Meatcrafter designs that actually refined folding knife Frog Market Special is
combat knives. The a traditional kitchen or “spork,” but Mah series. This knife can work. The Steak Knife that takes the user- the thinnest blade that
Carnivore represents cleaver has with a packed a lot more be customized with blade is a very capable friendly ergonomics TOPS has ever offered
a collaboration with bias toward the front. into this ingenious various steels, finishes, drop-point style that and balance of a with a thickness of
V-Nives. This personal If you have ever used high-tech outdoor handle materials, and slices through every- world-class chef’s knife only 1⁄16th of an inch.
dining set contains a a cleaver or Chinese tool. First of all, there’s even laser-engraved thing we threw at it: and translates them This allows for clean,
stainless steel knife hatchet in a kitchen an ergonomic spoon text or logos. The Table steak, chicken, pork, into an all-purpose, smooth cuts and
and fork that can be for any length of time, and a short-tined Knife can be ordered fish, cardboard boxes, everyday-carry folder gives the blade added
disassembled and you will know that feel. fork as the spork in sets or individually. paracord, you name that’s impervious to flexibility over thicker
stored in a hard-sided Gerber has captured component. Secondly, Each comes in a birch it. 154CM is a great the elements. This knives. The wide heel
carrying case smaller it in this mini rendition. there’s a convenient wood box with mag- everyday steel; Richlite is one of Spyderco’s of the blade allows for
than a smartphone. Due to its small size, bottle opener on one netic lid for easy trans- scales and titanium famous Salt Series deep, shearing cuts,
The case includes a it might be easy to side. The right side portation. The blade is liners round out this of ultra-corrosion- and the steep curve up
set of ceramic rods dismiss it as a novelty, of the handle gives ground at 14 degrees knife, which has been resistant knives. The to the edge slices well.
that can be threaded but the Tri-Tip slices you an emergency for effortlessly carving a regular EDC piece for blade is constructed Its tip is ideal for bon-
into the back of the and dices with the screwdriver blade or up meat. Whether me since I received it. of LC200N and has ing meats like chicken
case for sharpening. I best of them. This has light-use prybar. Three you choose one as a Made in the USA, but a nice curve to it. The and pork or slicing the
have put it to the test been part of my camp metric wrench reliefs personal steak knife for unlike most Emerson broad profile of the fat cap off a brisket.
in a number of fine kitchen for quite a few (10 mm, 8 mm, and an exquisite meal or Knives, this one isn’t blade coupled with a Even though it’s great
steakhouses, greasy years now. 6 mm) are useful for use it as a scaled-down equipped with the full-flat grind ensures in the kitchen, you’ll
spoons, and campsites emergency repairs. chef’s knife, the Table Wave-shaped opening precise, low-friction find a myriad of uses
alike. The blade is Pros: While not exactly Knife will definitely set device. To be fair, you cutting performance. while camping, fishing,
VG-10 stainless and Small, light, and cutlery in the strictest you apart from the don’t need the wait and hunting as well.
the handles are G10, handy, the Tri-Tip is sense, it’s convenient rest of your dining staff at Ruth’s Chris Pros:
making the entire set more cleaver than and a capable partner companions. dialing 911 if you flick This state-of-the- Pros:
dishwasher safe. knife and works great to any of the other it open during dinner art nitrogen-based Each blade feature
for chopping. knives here. Pros: service. alloy is extremely comes together to
Pros: The ergos are very CPM-154 offers excel- corrosion resistant make an outstanding
The set works ex- good despite its small Pros: lent edge retention. Pros: and is used by NASA cutting tool.
tremely well as table size. I can choke all Lightweight and con- Very ergonomic The blade is made for the ball bearings The Micarta handle
cutlery. The assembly the way up to the venient to carry. Clip handle from 154CM — tough, used in aerospace gives you great pur-
is ingenious. bottom of the blade to a belt loop, throw Serrations are placed razor sharp, rust applications. chase while wet.
Very sharp right out and rest my thumb in a pocket, or pack toward the front of resistant, and easily The ergonomic The tungsten carbide
of the box on the top for finer inside a plastic bag. the blade and are maintainable. handle shape is a hall- coating protects the
The ceramic rods cutting tasks. There are stainless chisel ground with no It’s very effective at mark of Spyderco’s steel from corrosion
work well for all your steel versions, but secondary bevel. cutting meat, espe- designs. due to acids in food
knives. They’re not Cons: for only a few dollars cially steak. Spyderco’s round as well as rust.
just a novelty. We’d prefer a natural more this titanium Cons: The Richlite scales hole makes for a fast
steel finish over this one represents the The Birch wood box are rock solid and manual opener. Cons:
Cons: black finish for food best value. is a work of art but comfortable to hold. Although it can be
Always make sure prep. may be a bit bulky Cons: used outside the
you have a source The belt slot on the Cons: to take along to your Cons: The wire clip, kitchen, be careful
of water to clean up sheath is a bit too Depending on the local steakhouse. At almost 9 inches in although robust, can not to roll the edge
after eating, so as not long and makes this food and the setting, This blade is DLC total length, this can be a bit tight at first. while chopping.
to put dirty utensils sub-optimal for on- it can be uncomfort- coated (a $50 option) be a bit big for some A bit small to be a A butcher’s steel
back in the case. the-body carry. able to use. so it has proven folks. true chef’s knife; you’ll would’ve been a
While many of the A slightly dull resistant to the acids It’s not equipped with have to adjust your great accessory to
knives in this article serrated section in tomatoes and the Wave-shaped technique to get it to hone out any nicks,
can fill other roles, would’ve been more other foods. Uncoated opening device that work well in that role. especially if you’re
this should be strictly useful than metric versions may fare might make it more using it as a boning
for meal prep. wrench cutouts. differently. versatile for EDC. knife.
The 507Comp is our newest handgun sight that was built based on feedback from professional
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018
1A/2A: OF RELIGION, OFFGRID
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You’re Stranded on a Flooded Jeep Trail?

By RECOIL OFFGRID Staff

o not enter when flooded.” fatalities. According to the National Weather vehicles had successfully crossed.”
It’s a bright yellow road Service, an average of 95 people die each If you found yourself stranded in worsen-
sign you’ve probably seen year from flooding, and nearly two-thirds ing storm conditions with a flooded road
next to drainage areas and of those deaths occur in vehicles. A study ahead, how would you gauge your ability
bridges, but have you given published by the University of Arizona to escape the situation? Should you stay
it any real thought? Unfortunately, most also concluded that most motorists who put and risk worse flooding at your current
motorists simply tune out these warnings. crossed flooded areas did so due to a calcu- location, or attempt to drive out carefully to
When severe weather does occur, far too lated decision, not an impulsive one — “they reach safety? We asked survival instructor
many drivers venture into areas where tended to cross if it appeared that weather Kevin Estela and overlanding expert Rick
their vehicles simply cannot go, leading to conditions were getting worse, if they could Stowe how they’d deal with this dangerous
precarious rescues or even preventable not find another route, and if they saw that predicament.
The Scenario and drive from your home in the Midwest and tell her you’ll both need to take shelter
down to visit a family member who lives in the Jeep, since the tent isn’t going to be
SITUATION TYPE on the Gulf Coast. Along the way, you hit a able to keep out the rising water for long.
Flash flood evacuation
few off-road trails and camp out overnight. As you fire up the engine and turn on the
YOUR CREW
Yourself and your 8-year-old For most of the trip, the weather has been headlights, you realize that the situation is
daughter
overcast with scattered showers, but as you even worse than you thought. The trail back
LOCATION get closer to the coast, you notice the fore- to the main road is clearly flooded — some
Southern United States
cast predicts heavier rain from an incoming areas are just muddy, while others are sub-
SEASON
Summer tropical storm. Still, it looks manageable, merged in flowing water. You recall cross-
WEATHER and none of the locals you’ve met seem ing creek beds on your way into the site
Looming storm clouds; high 92 especially concerned. You’ve only got one that may be a foot deep by now, given this
degrees F, low 74 degrees F
more night of camping before you reach amount of rainfall. The weather only seems
your relative’s home, so you head out on to be getting more intense, and this whole
The Setup the trail to find a campsite one last time. area may be submerged soon. There’s no
As a father, you’re a big believer in spend- cell service, and you’re a few miles from the
ing quality time with your kids in the The Complication nearest paved road or occupied structure.
great outdoors. You’ve gone on countless You awake in the middle of the night to the What can you do in this rapidly escalat-
father-daughter adventures with your first- sound of rain hammering your tent. Rolling ing situation? Should you wait for a break
born — camping, fishing, hiking, and plenty out of your cot, the floor undulates like a in the weather before attempting to drive
of weekends off-roading together in your waterbed beneath your feet. Outside the on the partially flooded trail? Or should you
Jeep Wrangler. For her eighth birthday, you tent, water is already ankle-deep and it’s attempt to drive out of the danger zone
decide to load up the Jeep with supplies only getting worse. You wake your daughter immediately before the flood gets deeper?
How would you gauge if a water crossing is
passable or too dangerous? What can you
do to prevent your Jeep’s engine from suck-
ing up water and stalling? If your vehicle
gets stuck, would you abandon it to seek
higher ground?

Survival Instructor Kevin

Estela’s Approach
“Jesus Christ!” I blurted only to be cor-
rected by my daughter, “That’s a sin, dad.
Don’t swear.” My profanity was more of a
surprised prayer for help than an expletive.
How could we be caught off guard by this
water? I grew up in New England and lived
in Utah for two years, but I never experi-
enced flooding like this. In my travels to and
from Arizona for work, I dealt with mon-
soons, but I was never put into a situation
where that collective rainwater turned into
a threat. Then again, those times were not
like this one and I should have known bet-
ter setting up camp so late at night. That’s
what I get for driving until I need to sleep
instead of stopping when I want to sleep.
The backcountry is open for adventure but
there’s always a trade-off. We’re on our own
ISSUE 57

to get out of this one.

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This ordeal provided an excellent op-

portunity for me to speak to my daughter
about life. While some parents believe in
sheltering their kids, I’d rather educate
them than keep them ignorant and naive
longer. She may be disappointed with the
decision to end our camping trip, but she’ll
be alive, and she’ll forgive me eventually.
There’s no chance for reconciliation after
death. She was nervous when we woke to
the water in our tent, and she didn’t fully
comprehend the urgency in my voice. In a
time like this, she needs to listen to me as a
parent and not as the fun dad or friend.
The problem with flood water is not just
the water. Our skin is pretty tolerant to that
in the short term. Water can be forceful, and
it does have the power to bend canoes and
kayaks when they’re pinned up against rocks.
Water can also float a vehicle pretty easily
Noticing the flood waters rising and the When the water started to rise around us, and just a few inches of water can give a
rain increasing, I assume this flood is much the question “could this flood” was replaced vehicle buoyancy. What also worries me in
like the flash floods we heard about at the with “how bad will this flood be?” We didn’t flood water is what the flood water is carrying
visitor center. In the Southwest, rain pouring have time to sacrifice waiting around for with it. Broken off branches, basketball-sized
miles away can travel underground and that answer. Unfortunately for us, where we rocks, sharp debris like bottles and trash
resurface as flooding above ground. I know set up was in a ravine we didn’t notice in discarded along the riverbanks and now in
there’s no way to predict how high the the dark. We arrived at camp late at night the mainstream. Murky water shouldn’t be
water will get, and we have to assume the and couldn’t see the nearby terrain features. viewed as just water. I can’t believe I’m seri-
worst. Who knows how long this storm band We disregarded the general rules for setting ously thinking about crossing that water, but
is? Even though I think we’ve seen the worst up a camp and our haphazard selection my daughter got drenched by the rain, and
of the storm, there could be a lot more rain cost us. Fortunately for us, we know we can her condition has started to deteriorate.
coming, and the water may rise even more. quickly gain elevation climbing to the top of I never would recommend crossing water
You can experience cold even in the sum- the draw by running to the top of the spur of unknown depth if there is a safe alterna-
mer and in the desert. Add in wet clothing that leads to the ridgeline. Between us and tive to self-rescue. It goes against all logic
and sleeping bags, and you can die from the spur is fast moving water that I can’t de- and the advice of every industry expert
the cold overnight. Our greatest lifeline was termine the depth of. The only other option I’ve heard. In this circumstance, the choice
our sleeping bags, and we knew we had is heading back the way we came through became very clear even if it was incredibly
to keep them as dry as possible. We didn’t what appears now to be a creek bed rush- desperate. In my daughter’s attempts to
plan on camping in wet weather, and we ing with water. help me, her clothes became soaking wet.
didn’t pack dry bags. Looking over what we We tune the radio to AM frequencies and Everything in our camp became soaking
had left in our camp, we had to improvise. start scanning for any updates. This is brand wet, including our lifesaving sleeping bags,
Since it was the tail end of our camping new for my daughter as she grew up in an and not even the vehicle’s heater seems to
weekend, we used the garbage bag that age when terrestrial radio was falling out be warming her fast enough. She was shiv-
lined our Trasharoo rear-tire garbage holder of favor, and everything became a playlist ering uncontrollably and has now become
to protect our sleeping kit. We dumped out plugged into the vehicle. She’s small, and I disoriented and lethargic. In my desperation
the contents and inverted the bag to use task her with listening for “the weatherman” to fight off hypothermia, I had to come to
the clean outside to hold our bags inside. who is giving an update on what we’re expe- the realization that she might die if we don’t
The rain was coming down strong, and riencing. We know storms don’t last forever get her body heat up, and we could both die
we had to fight the wind to close the Jeep and perhaps if we can get an idea how if we cross the river in an attempt to drive to
doors, which did a mediocre job of prevent- long this storm will last, we can decide if we safety. I’ll be called foolish and careless for
ing the horizontal rain from coming in. should hunker down or attempt an escape. letting this scenario get to this point, but I
 WHAT
IF?
would rather deal with insults than a funeral. old vinyl car bras that became popular in bank on the far side, and I use my handheld
No parent wants to bury a child, and the the 1980s, but without openings for airflow light to examine the bank to the driver’s
outcome will weigh on me if I don’t act now. (or in this case, water flow). We aren’t looking side of my rig. I’m looking for signs of the
Recovery boards are standard in my vehi- for a waterproof seal, but rather a boat-style high-water mark. The spotlight reveals
cles, and they’re used more than my winch. bow wave that’ll redirect the water to the displaced foliage and folded-over branches
To avoid losing them in mud, I always attach sides of the vehicle, rather than up into the a few feet above the surface of the water on
a length of cordage tied to my bumper to engine compartment. I quickly cut out an the far side. Behind my vehicle, candy wrap-
drag them from the mud after I drive out of appropriate-sized section of tarp and lash pers and a single water shoe can be seen
it. In these conditions, prep like that means it across the Jeep’s hood and bumper with tucked in the undercut and exposed root
not losing a lifesaving tool. Traction boards the bungee cords. system of the riverbank trees. This water
work great in dry conditions, but they be- My normal vehicle loadout consists of a isn’t as high as it has been. There’s a chance
come almost impossible to hold onto when battery pack for jump-starting self-recovery, we can make it if we cross now.
water is rushing over them. If I used them in traction boards, and a shovel to unstick It’s easy to assume slow-moving water is
these conditions, I would have to risk losing myself, as well as some basic stay-alive gear safe to cross, but we can only see the sur-
them, testing the tensile strength of the like camp stove, sleeping pads/bags, water, face and not how it’s flowing underneath.
leashes that hold them to my rear bumper. and fire-starting equipment. Whenever I Years as a kayaking/canoeing instructor
Even attempting to get them under the tires travel to the desert, I always pack more and guide taught me the laminar flow found
in moving water could put my life at risk, so water than I need with at least 2 to 3 gallons under the surface of the water can move
we’ll have to rely on keeping up momentum. per person per day. In off-road conditions, much faster and poses a much greater
I take inventory of the gear in camp. A light is an asset, and we pack plenty of high risk. This swift water is often the reason
tarp and some bungee cords can be used to output handhelds to support the lights on why even experienced swimmers drown in
create an improvised grille cover to reduce our vehicle. Now, as I prepare to abandon rivers that look to be barely moving. Who
the risk of water flowing into the engine bay. camp, I ditch any gear that’ll weigh down knows how the current will affect the Jeep
I recall reading that ARB, a well-known off- the Jeep and get it stuck during our bugout. as it crosses? All that’s left is to say a prayer,
road gear company, offers a “water crossing After prepping the Jeep, we pull up to the hope my earlier cursing isn’t held against
cover” that attaches to the front of a vehicle water’s edge. I turn on the vehicle’s roof- me by the man upstairs, and send my rig
for this purpose. It’s almost like one of the mounted light bar to illuminate the river- into the water at a steady pace.

ISSUE 57

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The tires lurch forward, and the water more, these items will be carried without fail I want to know what a rig is capable of
gurgles as it rises against the undercarriage on a daily basis. I will also be much more before it’s in a dire situation. The Overland
of the vehicle. I don’t let up on the gas and diligent about checking weather forecasts Expo event series includes a great team of
avoid spinning my wheels. Momentum is in the future and will choose campsites with off-road trainers, and they can show you
key. I feel the current pushing my vehicle flooding potential in mind. I can’t rely on how your vehicle stacks up against the
laterally, and I watch the road on the far luck or prayer like I did this time. If I make types of obstacles you’re most likely to en-
side of the river appear to move across my the same mistakes again, shame on me. counter in the backcountry. Beyond training
dashboard. Steady, steady, keep the wheels behind the wheel, you can also learn the ins
straight. Don’t fight the steering wheel. Overlanding Expert Rick and outs of winching, trailside repairs, and
Don’t be surprised by the water coming into Stowe’s Approach other situations that can quickly become
the cab. Keep going, come on, come on, I’ve faced a situation similar to this one. It’s dangerous when handled incorrectly.
more gas … come on, gas, gas, gas! I stare a terrible feeling staring at a water crossing In this scenario, I’d consider a Jeep
over at my shivering daughter only long that you’re not 100-percent sure you can Wrangler with decent tires plenty capable
enough to make sure she is still with me, make it through, especially when it’s your of tackling trails with some mud and flow-
and my glance is interrupted by the feeling only way out of the area. And while thank- ing water less than a foot deep. Given the
of the front wheels grabbing the far river- fully I wasn’t behind the wheel, I’ve seen a ankle-deep water in camp, I wouldn’t expect
bank and the sound of water draining out well-equipped off-road rig rendered inop- to encounter more than 2 feet of water at
of my bumper, wheel wells, and through the erable by 3 feet of relatively calm flowing the crossings at this point. Of course, this is
seams in the doors. Thank you, God. When water. It’s easy to romanticize crossing rivers all speculation, and you never know when
I’m clear of the river, I remove the tarp from with a wake breaking behind the truck, but in you’ll encounter the unexpected, but that’s
the front end to allow airflow to the radiator reality, combustion engines and electronics why we prepare for the worst.
and stow it in case I need it again further don’t mesh well with submersion. Most of the gear that I’d consider a must-
down the road. It isn’t long before we make That being said, just because you don’t have for the possibility of flooded trails
it to a roadblock manned by a highway expect high water during your backcountry and water crossings isn’t specific to that
patrolman who helps my daughter dry off, trips doesn’t mean you won’t encounter it. situation, but regardless, it’d be helpful. We
wraps an emergency blanket around her, Before I even consider modifications and ad- live in a day and age when satellite com-
and lets her sit in his cruiser to warm up. ditional equipment, I’d take a look at the fac- munication, GMRS, and HAM radio capabili-
Moving forward, part of my EDC will be a tory features and capability of the rig. Person- ties can all fit on your dash in small, easily
set of electronic tools that go hand-in-hand. ally, I prefer at least a rear locker, close to 10 accessible devices. With those tools, or a
A Garmin InReach and Garmin Foretrex 601 inches of ground clearance, 2 feet of fording combination thereof, not only can I stay in
will allow me to know my exact location and depth, all-terrain tires, and some underbody communication with family back home to
relay it from one device through another protection for low-hanging components. keep them updated about my location and
to two of my most trusted friends. This trip I’m also a big proponent of receiving changes to my plans, but I can also reach
was not without risk, and since there will be quality training from a reputable source. out to seek information about weather and
road conditions. In this scenario, I might be
Adding a snorkel to the intake and covering the front end with waterproof material can tempted to leave the camping area, and by
decrease the likelihood of the engine sucking up water during a tricky water crossing.
using NOAA weather radio, I could decide
(Photo courtesy of ARB)
which direction to travel to avoid backtrack-
ing or areas with more severe flooding. It’s
also worth noting that having all of your
comms hardwired to your rig is a bad call. I
like to keep at least one handheld radio and
a satellite communication device that I can
grab and go if I’m away from the truck.
In addition to communication equipment,
primary and secondary navigation tools
are a must-have. The vast majority of my
route planning is done with the onX maps
smartphone app. It allows me to save maps
offline and review trail photos, difficulty
ratings, closure dates, and descriptions of
 WHAT
IF?

popular tracks. I also keep a number of quality poncho, a water filter, some shelf- opposed to walking a water crossing before
Delorme Gazetteer paper maps and some stable food, and the cutting, fire starting, I attempt it. With just my daughter as a
region-specific 4x4-focused maps in my and illumination tools I carry every day will companion, I’d rig up a safety line to pivot
truck at all times. You can’t predict when a get me through the night. me back to shore just in case I encountered
phone or tablet will be damaged or lost, so Obviously, I can’t discuss water crossings strong currents. I’d also cut a long sapling
secondary navigation tools are required kit. in a 4x4 without mentioning a snorkel, but or branch to test the bottom as I made my
Recovery equipment and tools are also it’s important to remember that this modifi- way across each crossing. The one upside
necessary for venturing into the back- cation doesn’t necessarily give you magical to water crossings in areas with less drastic
country via 4x4, especially when traveling river-fording powers. There are still plenty of elevation changes is that they’re less likely
without a companion vehicle. I always have electronics and other parts that can fail due to rise into flash floods due to draining ar-
traction platforms stored in an easily acces- to submersion. Specifically, extended dif- eas far away. That’s a possibility near large
sible location. They’re a great first step in ferential breathers will eliminate a potential mountains or canyon lands.
recovery situations that are both fast and failure. Ideally, before I ever got into this situ-
safe. Full-sized hand tools — at the bare There’s a bit of an art and plenty of sci- ation, I’d reconsider the low-lying flood-
minimum, a sturdy shovel and a saw — are a ence to driving even a well-built overland prone areas with the rainy forecast in mind.
must. Chain saws or large folding saws both rig through water crossings over 18 inches. Obviously, I don’t want to disappoint my
work. The decision comes down to avail- Ideally, you want to enter the water and daughter; quality time isn’t always easy to
able storage and how fast you want to clear maintain a speed that’ll push the bow wake carve out, but at the same time, rerouting
fallen trees. The final component of the trio, ahead of your front bumper. If you go in too a couple of hours could save us a lot of
a properly rated winch, gains significant fast or too slow, the water can enter the en- trouble. Plus, I could use it as an opportu-
capability when you add extension straps, gine compartment. It’s honestly something nity to allow her to take part in the planning
snatch blocks, and tree savers. A winch is you have to get a feel for. process as we researched a new area to
also a tool that requires some training to In all reality, this Gulf Coast rainstorm camp for the night. This is exactly the type
operate safely and effectively. scenario has a lot of moving parts that of situation where it pays off to be flexible
If I have to ditch my truck because it’s in- could greatly affect how I would react. The and to have some points of interest and
operable or hopelessly stuck, I always keep location comes with its own unique chal- waypoints in mind for future trips.
a go-bag packed with shelter, water, and lenges. For one, water crossings where the The biggest factor in this scenario is
food as the top priorities. Going overboard bottom is sand as opposed to bedrock or whether we stay or go. After waking up
with a go-bag is tempting, but keeping it gravel can be particularly tricky because to standing water in the tent and seeking
small and accessible means I’m less likely to they’re more prone to washouts and shift- shelter in the Jeep, I would use my NOAA
ISSUE 57

leave it at home. An emergency bivy bag, a ing depths. That’s why I’m certainly not Weather Radio, satellite comms, and even

OFFGRIDWEB.COM 023
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1A/2A: THEREOF; IF?
HAM to gather as much info as I could to your ability, and your rig, you’ll probably be assistance services won’t be able to help
make a decision. Driving out of the area to OK, but that’s still no guarantee. Where’s the you, assuming you have enough cell signal
get back to a road might mean encounter- fun in that? to reach them at all.
ing an impassable obstacle, whether that be As always, preparation is key. Plan your
an unsafe water crossing or downed trees. Conclusion route carefully and use services such as
I’ve seen too many situations where you These days, our vehicles are safer and onX maps that provide recent photos and
spend time cutting a tree blocking the trail more technologically advanced than ever user-submitted updates regarding trail diffi-
just to find a tangled mess of timber a quar- before, and that tends to make us feel culty. When you’re heading out on a trail for
ter mile away. Unless the expected rainfall insulated from danger behind the wheel. the first time, consider bringing an experi-
was going to produce significant flooding, But danger is ever-present, especially once enced friend with a second vehicle — if you
I’d be tempted to wait it out, sleeping in the inclement weather and reduced visibil- get stuck, they might be able to pull you out
back of the Jeep. That’d keep us dry and ity are added to the mix. Even on paved or go find help. Check weather frequently
out of the water unless it was going to rise roads, it’s not uncommon to see motorists and don’t hesitate to turn back if conditions
over 3 feet. Since the scenario doesn’t take stranded after losing control in the rain deteriorate. If you’re serious about off-road-
place right on the coast, storm surge isn’t or attempting to drive through flooded ing and overlanding, invest in quality tools,
an issue, and if more than 36 inches of rain areas. In an off-road setting, heavy rain can recovery equipment, and off-grid commu-
is forecasted, I’d definitely change the plan. quickly turn smooth dirt roads into slippery nications gear. Above all, don’t fall into the
Heading to the high ground would also mud, and swell trickling creeks into impass- trap of overestimating your driving prowess
be an option, but unless it was close and able rivers. And if you get stuck in a remote or your vehicle’s capabilities. That’s an easy
definitely drivable, I’d keep an open mind location, tow trucks and traditional roadside way to end up in deep trouble — literally.
about setting out on foot. With the equip-
ment in the go-bag, the night would be
passable, and the temperatures wouldn’t
necessarily be dangerous.
Obviously, having an 8-year-old as your
only travel companion takes some special
consideration. The biggest being that this
whole situation will be a lot easier if she’s
About the Authors
calm and comfortable throughout the or- Kevin Estela Rick Stowe, as-
deal. Personally, I think a lot of that depends is the director sociate editor for
on exposing kids to adverse situations at a of training Overland Expo, is
young age with proper preparations and for Fieldcraft a fan of explora-
encouragement. In short, teach them to Survival in tion regardless if
deal with “the suck.” Kids are malleable, and Aberdeen, it’s by foot, 4x4, or
their comfort range isn’t as narrow as some North Carolina. bike. Even though
might think. Making sure my daughter knew He’s the best-selling author of 101 Skills most of his professional work is based
how to use the radio so I could stay in touch You Need to Survive in the Woods and around lifted trucks and rooftop tents, he
while scouting crossings or pulling the winch an accomplished magazine writer. still appreciates the opportunity to head
line is at the top of the list. Even if we had He’s the host of the Fieldcraft Sur- out with a pack, a tarp, a cook kit, and a
to head out on foot, her poncho and bivy vival Podcast and a regular guest on knife to practice primitive skills. If there’s
would keep her warm and dry, and as long others. Estela has been a professional a solid trout stream nearby, even better.
as that wasn’t the first time she had been out bushcraft and survival instructor He believes that when everything goes
in stormy conditions, she would be fine. since 2007 and has tested his skills in wrong, the most valuable thing you can
Just like an off-camber trail, getting a a wide range of environments. Highly carry is a solid knowledge base and prac-
truck high-centered, or a whole host of oth- sought after for product testing, de- tical experience. Remember, skills weigh
er situations you can encounter overland- signs, and feedback, he’s regarded as nothing, and an emergency is a terrible
ing, high water can be nerve-wracking. At a subject matter expert and author- time to get your gear dirty for the very
the end of the day, we explore to push our- ity in outdoor skills who conducts first time. overlandexpo.com
selves, and technical driving is just another regular courses around the country.
skill set to add to your mental toolbox. As You can follow him on Instagram at
long as you’re honest about the conditions, @estelawilded.
LESS BLOWBACK.
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1A/2A: OR ABRIDGING
 Raul Martinez Jr. Talks About Survival
Lessons Learned from the Mean Streets
of Chicago, the Iraq War, and Beyond
By Patrick McCarthy

ard times create strong men — this adage

rings true for many of the instructors and
subject matter experts we have inter-
viewed in RECOIL OFFGRID, and Raul The signature pla-
toon photo while
Martinez Jr. is no exception. Growing up
on Iraqi soil, the
as a first-generation American alongside seven siblings in crossed sabers of
a low-income home, life was never easy. Compounding Saddam Hussein
this, his home was located in Chicago’s Lower West Side. in Baghdad, Iraq,
circa 2008.
Inner-city gang violence was pervasive, and more than
a few of Raul’s childhood friends ended up in prison or
dead as a result. To break free from this vicious cycle, he
joined the Army, which soon exposed him to a new type
of violence in Iraq. Years later, his path came full circle as less mix of hand-to-hand defensive skills, edged weapons
he returned home and signed up to be a patrol officer with implementation, shooting, and medical training, all within
the Chicago Police Department. Ironically, most of his days the context of a real-world, no-holds-barred fight. He has
were spent dealing with the same hodgepodge of low-level also partnered with instructors such as longtime RECOIL
gang members, drug dealers, and misguided teenagers he OFFGRID contributor Ed Calderon for joint classes. In the
grew up alongside. A subsequent promotion to the under- end, his goals are simple: to motivate everyone he meets
cover narcotics task force allowed him to pursue the most to become better prepared for a violent altercation, and to
ruthless and well-funded echelons of Chicago’s criminal provide them with the knowledge and experience to come
hierarchy. out victorious.
Today, Raul has blended lessons learned from his time After attending a recent Rogue Methods class, we took
in law enforcement, the military, and growing up in one of the opportunity to speak to Raul about his upbringing,
America’s most dangerous cities to create his own training career path, and thoughts on the self-defense training
company, Rogue Methods. His courses cover a seam- landscape.

OFFGRIDWEB.COM
 You mentioned one of your childhood friends ended
up in prison for murder. What led you to escape that
life?
RM: I have to credit my loving mother for this decision.
She must have seen the writing on the wall and made the
necessary moves to shift our home base north.
With a group Being that we were lower income, the same problems
of trusted local
laid in wait, just in a new place with new faces. From gang-
fighters before
one of many ster rap to punk rock and all things Rage Against the Ma-
operations, chine, then back to gangsta rap. Blending in became a skill.
Iraq circa 2008. Thinking about it now, this eventually helped me navigate
These guys
were hard better in other countries and as a cop.
chargers. I wish nothing but the best to all my old friends. May life
treat you well in all your days …

What did you do in the Army? How long were you in?
RM: Initially I wanted to be a Marine. At the time, the tattoo
regulations were stiff. I went as far as getting laser removal
on one neck tattoo, and it still wasn’t enough. A short walk
over to the Army recruiters, and I was in — signed and
ready to become a 19D Cavalry Scout. Reconnaissance
was my goal. Training was fantastic, a great change of pace
from city life. A few awards and leadership positions later,
and I was hooked — military life was the life for me.
I deployed with the 3rd Infantry Division to Iraq from
2007 to 2009. What a wild and memorable experience that
was. Foot patrols to mounted movements, single building
CQB to clearing villages, small arms gunfights to Bradley
fighting vehicles and their 25mm hailstorms. Meeting with
local Sheikhs and training the Iraqi army and police forces.
What a time to be alive. Shout out to all my old military
Patrol work RECOIL OFFGRID: Tell us about your upbringing. Which friends, I miss you guys.
during a part of Chicago did you live in? After all the combat jazz and incredible lessons learned, I
saturation
initiative on Raul Martinez: What can I say about Chicago that the signed on to become a Drill Sergeant. I reclassed into the In-
Chicago’s South news hasn’t already? Like most major cities, it has a fantry as an 11B and then went to Drill school, what an honor.
Side. Around highly diverse population. I was fortunate enough to I wrapped up my service time of eight years in a blend of
this time, four
be born and raised in Pilsen, a predominantly Mexican active duty and reserve time. Ending it all with a double
people had
been gunned neighborhood, back in the ’80s. We were surrounded MOS qual of 19D/11B-30X, combat deployment, a heart filled
down by by Polish folk, Italians, Americans, and African Ameri- with patriotism and love for our fellow countrymen. It’s a
unknown cans — all of us blended in community and sometimes service I will encourage my children to be a part of.
shooters who
fired roughly utter chaos. Peace was often dependent on surrounding
200 rounds gang rivalries and their expansion for territory. Fistfights, We’ve heard the tongue-in-cheek nickname Chiraq
of 7.62 into a shootouts, car chases, and a bunch of moms peeking out used to compare the roughest parts of Chicago to a
vehicle. No one
from their first-, second-, and third-story windows yelling literal war zone. How much of an exaggeration is that?
survived. No
one was caught. for their kids to come inside, now! RM: What a suitable name for a city like Chicago. The
Home-cooked meals were the best, from traditional nickname Chiraq is very much a matter of time and place. I
Mexican dishes to pan-fried bologna, sometimes pizza and say that because it does feel like a war zone every now and
tacos, perogies, and hotdogs. The ’80s and ’90s in Chicago again, especially for those caught in the mix when gunfire
were an awesome time, with and without the violence. rages. The violence, however, isn’t widespread across the
Later, we moved to the north side of the city before I made whole of the city. It’s isolated to certain neighborhoods and
my way to Arizona. areas. If violence breaks out downtown, it’s either because
 ROGUE
METHODS
two rivals ran into each other and, well, what better place to
show dominance than the here and now? Otherwise, it’s an
organized event that is being tracked both online and by
the law enforcement street teams.
Most of the locals know the bad areas and stay away
as best they can. The violence is real, yet not directed at
random citizens. It’s mostly rival gangs that lack leadership
and organization. Once upon a time, gang leaders had
their own codes, rules, and even ethics. Most of those guys
ended up in jail or dead, and all the wannabes took charge.
“Geared up and
No leadership and no direction — chaos became the new minutes away
norm for the streets. from a search
warrant, tracking
down a seriously
After leaving the military, did you go immediately
bad dude. The
into law enforcement? Give us an overview of your LE team and I
career path. worked through
RM: Not immediately. I had some fun for a while as a the night and
approached at
private investigator, running surveillance jobs and tracking first light. The
folks who didn’t want to be found. I enjoyed learning the PI masks were
craft thanks to a good friend in Illinois. Cheers Craig, I hope to protect our
identity for
all is well.
continued work
I also spent some time contracting here in the States, in the area,
mostly the coastal ones. We jumped around from the nothing more.”
Caribbean to Australia and back again. There was a good
mix of dudes in that detail — an American, a New Zealander,
a South African, and an Australian. There was plenty of
driving, advance planning, and surveillance work for me on
that team.
In between trips, I finished the hiring process with Chica-
go and became a Chicago cop, something I never thought
I’d be until it happened. Most officers grow up wanting to
be one — not me! I still remember having to run full tilt to
get away from them, being caught a few times and being
held at gunpoint during traffic stops. I understood the
game then and even more now.
So, there I was, dressed in the well-known light blue
uniform of the Chicago Police Department ready to do my
part and blend my street smarts and military training to
catch some actual bad dudes. I did my best to avoid creat-
ing criminals from everyday folks. I wrote more warnings
than tickets and dismissed a lot of the ones that had to be
written. I told more people to throw stuff away than most
coppers find in their careers. There were bigger fish to fry,
and time was never on our side.
I worked patrol both on foot and in vehicles, and also
Chicago Cubs
worked plain clothes on a tac-team. I spent time alongside victory parade.
some really great dudes on an undercover narcotics team This was a huge
— true professionals that showed me the ropes and really event that called
for all units
invested in my development. There I learned plenty about
to show up in
the importance of blending in and “knowing the enemy.”
ISSUE 57

uniform and
It was a beautiful and fine line being a good guy with the crown caps.

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1A/2A: OF SPEECH,

power and connections of both sides. How did your time as a kid on the streets prepare you
My last stop with Chicago PD was in the firearms training for undercover work?
unit, I was grateful for the opportunity at such an early RM: What better teachers than those actively living and
stage in my LE career. Efcharistó, LT! thriving in criminal lifestyles? These guys had figured some
stuff out, and they were happy to share with those they
Was the gear and training you received adequate for trusted. Maybe this is another reason why I enjoy teaching.
the job you had to do? If not, what were the biggest I had some awesome teachers, even in that phase of my
deficiencies? life.
RM: The department had standard gear and training that Time on the streets taught me about patterns of good
all officers needed to have and participate in. I will say this: guys, bad guys, and junkies. Fighting, running, hiding —
those of us who took the time to test our gear and seek essentially parkour before it was a thing, only with guns,
out individual training all excelled and found ourselves on drugs, and the potential of getting caught and beat up
teams and specialty units sooner than some of our peers. (again). I remember taking a sawed-off double barrel shot-
The biggest deficiencies were in hand-to-hand training, gun, its handle wrapped in duct tape, and a rusty wheel
mostly due to the nature of more realistic/aggressive train- gun with electrical tape around the grip from a hidden
ing and the potential for injury. I think you can accomplish crawl space in an abandoned building. I packed them up
Catching a strong and safe training if the instructors are high level and carried them with a buddy to the ditch spot at Lake
breather after coaches as well. Some positions are hard to come by, and Michigan. Their services were no longer needed.
some hard once acquired dudes tend to stay there even if they aren’t All of these experiences helped me better understand
sparring rounds
during fight
the right fit anymore. who I was dealing with while working in the city — creative
camp for the 2019 Honestly, we train people harder in our two-day classes and cunning folks on the wrong side of law. A dream I often
MMA fight. Local than some of the training presented in the academy. It’s have is that of a foot chase. I am both the one running and
fighters Danny
always possible to get good training, and I hope younger the one chasing. I am both young and old, running from
and Kevin were
brought in to help officers get their chance to make some changes. I believe myself, one laughing and one scowling. I awaken and think,
prepare. in you! keep running little sh*t, life is far from over!

Were there any especially dangerous situations you

experienced during that time?
RM: There were plenty. Enough that even now, as I really
think back, I’m flooded by memories I had stored away and
haven’t visited in a while. A blend of vehicle pursuits leading
to foot chases, drawing a gun and putting it back in its hol-
ster to keep moving faster. Running into buildings marked
condemned and clearing rooms hastily. In retrospect, that
may have been foolish, but I’m definitely happy to still be
upright. Fighting to restrain someone in awkward spaces
— inside of cars, housing units, and out in the open urban
terrain, sometimes alone, other times with a partner. Recov-
ering guns, drugs, and the people who possessed them.
Wrestling for control of both the individual and my own
emotions. It’s an interesting switch to go from predator to
protector in the blink of an eye. All these lessons were of
good value, and they have made their way in the programs
we teach at Rogue-Methods.com

Head-to-head
How long have you been training in martial arts, and
grappling drills what styles have you studied?
with students RM: I was 8 or 9 when I had my first fistfight … well, more
at Protector
like a swinging arm session while trying to avoid being hit.
Symposium
5.0 in Tucson, We would gather around and just get after it. No one was
Arizona. mad about losing then, it was more of an I’ ll get him next
 ROGUE
METHODS

month. We had multiple classes in multiple states happen- Left:

ing every weekend. It was a huge success, and I attribute it Demonstrating
an “off-body
to the team I had built. This was a very valuable experience holster” method
for me, one I’m grateful for having and ending on my terms. to protect and
The rise of Rogue Methods came to fill in a missing control a firearm
if you realize a
element in the training space. An idea of empowering oth-
hands-on fight is
ers — from novices to professionals — in a blended style of imminent.
time kind of attitude. hand-to-hand combat training and the tools we all carry for
Formal training started around age 12. I grew up in the self-defense. Similar training already existed; this was just Above: Raul and
Rogue Methods
karate and taekwondo era. In early 2000, I started Brazilian my take on how to do it best. Coach Dan M.
jiujitsu, Krav Maga, wrestling, boxing, and catch wrestling. Every program we offer has a medical and a self-defense demonstrating
MMA came to me later in life, though it made sense having component, even if it is a shooting specific class. That was one of several
gun retention
trained for so many years. It was an amazing experience something I noticed was missing in the training I had seen.
techniques
training and preparing for a fight. The true challenge was in making sure we could transfer from outside the
I carry those lessons with me daily. I continue to seek out as much retainable information as possible in our one- and holster during
seminars on guns and knives. It’s been a lifetime of curiosi- two-day courses. I embraced the task of cutting out the a Close Contact
Gunfighter class.
ty, which has yet to fade. I constantly seek out coaches that unnecessary fluff that I was tired of hearing and seeing in
I find interesting and try my best to keep active and ready some presentations. (More on this in my favorite quote sec-
to fight. One of the best coaches I’ve had is Ryan Hoover of tion of the article.)
Fit to Fight. Check him out when you have a chance. Rogue Methods training is an experience like no other,
and it belongs to you the moment you leave, and then
When did you start working full-time as an instructor? return again, as most of our folks do. The training helps
We recall you were the director of training at Fieldcraft you connect ideas to your physical body and helps you
Survival for a while, and then branched out to start understand your capabilities. Does it require you to invest
your own company, Rogue Methods. in yourself? Absolutely. Why wouldn’t you, especially now
RM: I had never heard of Fieldcraft or its owner until I met that you understand that a little time and practice can go
them in Prescott, Arizona, back in 2018. When we met, we a long way to maintain your safety and the safety of those
sat down and had a couple of long conversations. We chat- around you. Be it in the form of awareness or the ability to
ted about goals for the future of the training department. It handle a confrontation, you’ll be better equipped to make
was two classes a month then. When I was entrusted with these decisions for yourself.
ISSUE 57

its growth, I took them from two classes to about 14 to 16 a Shout out to my team for their professionalism and

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 ROGUE
METHODS
about the limitations that are imposed on you by both com-
mand staff and the media. Keep up the good work.

How does your Close Contact Gunfighter curriculum

differ from a traditional shooting class?
RM: The Close Contact Gunfighter program focuses more
on building fighting skills. There is some shooting in the
class, though it’s mostly to drive confidence in key fight-
ing skills such as shooting one handed and moving while
shooting.
I believe this class has a lot to offer participants — ev-
erything from team building to medical, striking, wrestling,
knife defense and offense, shooting, gun retention and
recovery, reality-based scenarios, force-on-force training,
and hours of strong repetition. It’s an overall great experi-
ence for everyone.
Observing dedication to the work that we do daily for our fight tribe/ The feedback and reviews from folks who have trained
a student legion. Dan R., Dan M., Hunter C., Dillon V., Mark O., and Joel with us has been positive and motivating. This class is truly
to provide
feedback during M., you guys rock! one of a kind.
a Low Profile
Carbine class Based on our time training with you, you’ve got a We imagine you encounter some students with a lot of
in Phoenix,
unique approach to blending hand-to-hand skills and shooting experience but minimal martial arts experi-
Arizona.
shooting skills. How likely is someone to need both in a ence, and others with the opposite. What “training
real self-defense situation? scars” does each extreme create, and how do you
RM: Hopefully you’ll never find yourself in a situation requir- overcome them?
ing you to use any of the skills you learn with us. Though if RM: We do often see the disparity in skills from tools to
you do find yourself having to go hands-on someday, and hands-on abilities. Unless you’re in the military or law en-
it escalates to a firearm or a knife, then at least you have a forcement, there are limited training options for folks who
reference file to tap into. carry. Again, a major reason we’re so proud and honored
We train in medical, striking, defense, and offense. Weap- to be able to share the Close Contact Gunfighter program
ons retention and recovery, force on force, and the de- with everyone.
escalation of it all in live practice. Look, most situations can On the shooter’s side we’ll notice an over-dependence
and should be avoided by taking the high road if possible. on the gun for all things defense. On the martial arts side,
There are folks who chose this lifestyle as a profession, we see an overwhelming emphasis on controlling the
and I’ll always be grateful for my brothers and sisters in blue person and losing the tools, be it a gun or a knife. Close
— thank you for doing what you do and for keeping our Contact Gunfighter helps you find and balance both to
communities as safe as possible. I know better than most your benefit.
The class is based on small group training. No more
RAUL’S EDC GEAR than 14 people, so I am able to customize most of the
- S&W J-Frame
Model 442 revolver class to help individual needs. Training scars and all are
- Cor-Bon Pow’RBall broken down, and new habits start to form. We receive so
.38 Special ammo
- HeadHunter Blades much feedback about how the class has motivated folks
“The Rat” knife to continue to train on their own. I’m grateful to be a coach
- Ray-Ban Justin and friend to all those who have trained with us, and I look
shades
forward to meeting and training with those of you who are
reading this now.

Your personal pistol and carbine setups are both pretty

minimalist by today’s standards. What’s your reason
for keeping it simple?
RM: They are pretty bare-bones, now that you mention it.
 Our process is slow,
on purpose.
SLO W SO WE CAN WA TCH EAC H ROU ND
BEI NG MA DE. SLO W SO THA T EVE RY SIN GLE
ON E CAN BE HEL D AND INS PEC
TED
BY HAN D BEF ORE EAR NIN G OU
R NAM E.
TO LOCATE A DEALER NEAR YOU, PLEASE CALL 800.568.6625 www.black-hills.com
 ROGUE
034 OFFGRID
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1A/2A: OR THE RIGHT METHODS
Self-applying
a tourniquet.
All Rogue
Methods classes
incorporate an
element of first
aid training, since
Raul believes
it’s an essential
skill for anyone
who expects to
survive a fight.

Just living a
healthy life and
continuing to add
new skills. Lake
surfing in Dallas,
Texas, with some
awesome friends.

Training has always been a priority for me over gadgets

and gear. What and how I carry is based on how I have
experienced the environments I lived and worked in.
Simple works. Iron sights work. A strong retention holster
and a solid sling will help you keep your gear from getting
taken. A handheld flashlight and a good blade will save
you in a pinch. Rely on your hands and your wits but know
that doing so requires you to focus on strengthening your
PEOPLE WHO INSPIRE ME:
physical abilities.
Christ Almighty, my grandfather, all the people The gear you carry should simply be an extension of
taking action and becoming the leaders they your capabilities, not the reason for them.
were meant to be (keep going!)
People are awesome, they just need to be reminded
FAVORITE MOVIES:
Gladiator, Fight Club, The King, The Passion of the sometimes, so here it is. Go train your body and then add
Christ, Braveheart, King Arthur (Antoine Fuqua) in the tools. You’ll quickly see how useful and simple it all
FAVORITE QUOTE: becomes. Trust and believe in yourself!
“They muddy the water, to make it seem deep,”
- Nietzsche. It applies to so many aspects of
life. People tend to complicate simple things If there’s one lesson you could teach everyone in
in an attempt to make themselves seem more America about self-defense, what would it be?
important. You’re never more important than the
people you serve. RM: If you haven’t started training in some form of
FAVORITE PLACES TO EAT IN CHICAGO: contact sport, start now. Wrestling, boxing, BJJ, kickbox-
RAUL Tacos: Atotonilco in Little Village, fantastic al ing — get a heavy bag and go to town on it. Find some

MARTINEZ JR.
pastor and steak tacos
Pizza: Villa Palermo in Rogers Park, an old- training partners and play around. Anything where you’re
school Chicago pizza joint working with a living, breathing, and thinking training
AGE: 40
RECOMMENDED READING: partner goes a long way. This will help you fast-track your
HOMETOWN: Chicago, IL The Reader’s Digest Bible learning, although there is no shortcut to fighting and
Breathe: A Life in Flow by Rickson Gracie
FAMILY & PETS: fight training. Some good coaching and the right stimulus
48 Laws of Power by Robert Greene
A loving and patient mother; a stern yet fair
The Tao of Jeet Kune Do by Bruce Lee will help move things along faster. That’s why I’m proud
father; seven brothers and sisters; fantastic
To Ride, Shoot Straight, and Speak the Truth by
aunts, uncles, and cousins; a most gorgeous of my team, programs, and company. We have a formula
Jeff Cooper
and inspiring wife; six kids; and two dogs that
resemble their owner’s build — short and URL: rogue-methods.com that helps people get better the moment they decide
stocky. I love you all! INSTAGRAM: @rogue.methods they want it.
 Getting Up Close and Personal with
Craig Caudill’s Tracking Fundamentals
By W. Dean Freeman
 The Reveille
Peak Ranch has
a semi-outdoor
classroom
area where we
initially met. It
was nice to see
a flag up to start
the day.

n my preparedness journey, I’m at a point where Getting Started

I have enough “stuff” and want to ensure that I The class size was modest — about 10 people. Some
have enough skills. As a prospective member of people had taken several Fieldcraft Survival classes be-
my county search-and-rescue (SAR) team and a fore; for others, this was their first. A few attendees were
budding hunter, one skill that I always wanted to prior military service, others have always been civilians. To
learn was tracking. Sure, as a Boy Scout as a kid I learned start out, Craig asked what we all hoped to get out of the
some absolute basics, such as print identification for class in order to tailor the approach, which I appreciated.
species of animals where I grew up, but I never got much To be expected, a lot of people were there driven by
further into it than that. their hunting passion. That was part of my purpose, but
While “read a book” is a valid path to prime the pump really tracking people to increase my skill set for SAR was
with many new skills, some things are better to learn in my main driver. Luckily for me, much of the focus would
a class setting. So, when I saw that Fieldcraft Survival be on man-tracking at first. This is because as people, it
had not only added a tracking class to its inventory, but would be easier for us to make informed guesses about
had scheduled one near me in Burnet, Texas, I jumped people tracks. It also doesn’t hurt that, as humans, we
at the chance to get started. I signed up in the Fieldcraft could create new human tracks rather than hoping to
Survival headquarters store in Heber City, Utah, while on find animal tracks that may or may not be present.
the way home from a family road trip.
Fieldcraft is a well-known brand with a wide variety of Science, Not Art
classes. This was my first time taking a class from them, Growing up, when I would think about tracking, I’d pic-
however, so I was interested to see if it would live up to ture frontiersmen or Native Americans slinking through
what I’d heard. I wasn’t disappointed. the forest in their buckskins, hot on the trail of game or
The instructor for the class was none other than Craig maybe an enemy war party. Even modern media portray-
Caudill, founder of The Nature Reliance School, who had als create similar depictions — Netflix’s Sheriff Longmire
been tapped by FCS to provide this content. Craig has calling in his friend Henry Standing Bear, “the best tracker
written four books on wilderness survival topics and I know,” to help track down a poacher in the woods. One
teaches tracking, among other things, through his school could be forgiven for thinking to be a great tracker you
directly as well. So, I loaded up my day-in-the-sticks kit need natural talent or maybe some magic sixth sense.
and drove out to Reveille Peak Ranch to start my journey In fact, after introducing himself, Craig opened with a
ISSUE 57

towards becoming a tracker. brief story of Daniel Boone, tracking a Native American

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Craig Caudill
using a flashlight
to provide
contrast to a
footprint in the
sand.

war party who had kidnapped a girl, following them more

than 50 miles over a course of days. It took Boone over
10 years to get all the skills and knowledge that enabled The print has
been identified
him to pull this off.
and lines have
Contrary to the common perception, tracking is a sci- been staked
ence, not an art. While there’s no doubt that some people out to help
have a natural talent, just like anything else, it is in fact a determine key
skill that can be learned by anyone willing to put in the metrics about
work. And like any science or technical discipline, there’s the track.
jargon. Some of the key jargon for tracking include:
• Tracks are indicators left on the ground, such as foot-
prints.
• Sign are all other indicators, which are not necessarily
on the ground.
• Spoor is a South African (Afrikaans) word for a collec-
tion of sign/tracks.
• Cutting for sign is methodically looking for sign.
• Quarry is the person or animal being pursued.
• Direction of Travel is (self-evidently) the direction the
quarry is headed.
• Gait is the rate of movement of the quarry.
After receiving some printouts and dealing with a few
more administrative items, we headed out to the field to
get started.
Step is the
distance
Sun Track You between left
The first bit of wisdom that Craig gave us in the field and right feet.
was to keep, to the best of your ability, the sun between Stride is the
yourself and the track. The shadow will give the best distance from
contrast, and for this reason the morning and evening one left print to
another. Stride
are the best times to read tracks. Midday is the worst.
is affected by
The point was illustrated with a flashlight to show how height and
the tracks become more visible or wash out depending changes with
on the angle and intensity of the light. speed.
Measure Before You Analyze Other sign
Tracking is a science of deduction — you must ob- include broken
plants like this,
serve physical artifacts in order to draw a conclusion. As
or anything
Craig put it in class, you must make observations before else that stands
interpretations. Your goal is to learn to identify certain out as being
measurable indicators, which provide the data necessary obviously
to figure out things like: disturbed
• Number of subjects relative to the
environment.
• Direction of travel
Smell, color,
• Speed of travel and dryness
• Time the quarry came through relative to some other are some of the
events factors that can
Data needed to support these conclusions include: help determine
whether such
• Shape of footprint(s)
sign is fresh or
• Distinct shoe treads, toe spread, etc.
not.
• Pitch of observed footfalls relative to a center line
• Trail width pation, to take measurements of tracks and then start to
For instance, in order to deduce speed, one must make interpretations. Nothing was a trick, though some
know the average step and stride lengths for the type of things were tricky. However, the goal was to get about
quarry, such as a human being. By measuring step and 70 percent right on any given scenario, with the mantra
stride, as well as the trail width, you can start to deter- “70 percent right and move on it” drilled into us. That
mine whether someone is walking or running. As speed is to say, to the active tracker looking for, say, a fugitive,
increases, step and stride will increase but trail width will being 70 percent right and closing the time-distance gap
also decrease, as well as foot pitch. between yourself and the subject is more important than
To illustrate this, the class helped set up a “spoor pit” in doing a 100-percent accurate reconstruction of events
the sand, and we ran several drills, involving class partici- that don’t necessarily matter.

Make it Human (or Not)

Depending on the terrain where you’re tracking, you
may not have nice sand or mud and tracks won’t be
clearly visible in the form of footprints. You’ll be looking
at disturbances in leaf litter or grass, for instance, and it
may not be immediately apparent what has made the
trail you’re on.
Humans are the only animal fully bipedal. Being biped-
al, we’re also one of the least well-balanced animals and
our walk is more like a controlled fall. As such, the width
of a human track is wider than that of any other animal.
Trail width can From dogs to hogs to members of the deer family, all
help determine animals have fairly narrow track width. Knowing that can
whether a track be key to staying on a human track versus an animal.
is human or not
Of course, spoor isn’t all tracks. You have to look off the
when you don’t
ground and trees and bushes for air sign. The type of foli-
have visible
prints. It can age needs to be taken into consideration depending on
also be helpful what you’re tracking. For instance, people don’t generally
in determining walk through thorny underbrush on purpose. If you see
whether a a track heading into such brush, it was likely made by an
subject is
animal, not a human. If you’re starting from a last known
running or
walking when location of someone who disappeared at night, however,
he or she may not have seen the brush and just kept
ISSUE 57

you do have
prints. pushing through it.

OFFGRID
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1A/2A: TO ASSEMBLE,

In the Ten unit-level tactics for man tracking specifically, but also
Step Drill, one
provides the introduction for “lost spoor” tactics to reac-
partner walks
quire a trail when the tracker loses it. While some of the
out and marks
his steps. The tactics introduced can be done by a solo tracker, such
second partner as a hunter, many really require additional bodies to be
takes note of successful.
what he can A squad-size tracking unit may include:
observe at
• The tracker himself
those marked
points in order • The team leader
to learn to • The comms guy
identify tracks • Two flankers
when clear • Rear security (though this was also handled by the
footprints aren’t comms guy in our scenarios)
visible due to
The drills were run repeatedly, with teams changing up
ground cover.
sides, and team members switching roles within the team
each rotation. In my team’s first rotation as the tracking
unit, I took the role of tracker. While I did lose the trail
about halfway, this did give a good opportunity to run
the reacquisition drills with the team, so I think I got more
out of losing the trail than if I’d managed to stay on.

Summing it Up
Coming out of the class, I can say that I definitely feel
more aware of what to look for out in the wild, or even
Practice, Practice, Practice just on my rucks near the house with my dog. I learned a
Like athletics or shooting, if you want to get good at lot, and frankly, I want to learn more. Tracking is an excel-
tracking you have to practice. In class, we were intro- lent addition to the skill set, whether you want to increase
duced to a training technique to “take home” with us your chances of putting food on the table or help your
called the Ten Step Drill. It’s possible to do it by yourself, community in some way. I’d definitely suggest taking one
but it’s preferable to work with a partner. of Craig’s classes, whether through Fieldcraft Survival or
To start out, one partner looks away while the other his own Nature Reliance School, as a way to get started
takes 10 steps out from the starting point and drops or to just get better.
a marker at each foot fall. The tracking partner then
inspects the marked footfalls and notes what sign can be
seen. The partners then switch roles and repeat.
As you get better, you then move on to dropping fewer
markers, then add steps. You can work in modifications
to this while walking your dog, rucking, or other activities,
by paying attention to your own footfalls, your dog’s, or
Interview
your partner’s.
The goal is to be able to identify tracks and sign, such
with
as the way grasses bend or break, leaves crinkle, etc., Craig Caudill
when stepped on in environments where footprints will A couple days after the tracking class, I was able to
not be clearly visible. The more you do it, the quicker connect with Craig on Zoom for an interview to get to
you’ll be able to identify trails in the field. know him a little better, and get his thoughts on top-
SOURCES
ics related to the class, survival skills, and tracking
Fieldcraft Survival
Tracking with Teams fieldcraftsurvival.com
in general. This interview is available exclusively on
A good portion of the day was spent running tracking our website at the link below:
Nature
drills as teams, with one group running the track and Reliance School offgridweb.com/preparation/craig-caudill-interview
the other acting as the “rabbits.” This portion introduces naturereliance.org
1A/2A: AND TO PETITION

The New
Juggernaut Case
ENDVR, ADVNTR,
and OPRTR Provide
Scalable Protection
for Your Phone
By Tom Marshall
 e recently completed a top-down
review of the ruggedized Jugger-
naut phone cases and mounting
ecosystem, published in Issue 53.
Shortly after that article was com-
plete, Juggernaut announced they’d be releasing a new,
expanded line of phone cases and mounts. Good news up
front: Both cases and mounts are backward compatible. If
you have a legacy mount, all the new cases will still fit in
those mounts. Likewise, if you purchase one of their new-
generation mounts, your existing phone case will fit into it
without problems.
Previously, there were two Juggernaut phone cases:
the IMPCT and the SLEEV. The IMPCT was their “medi-
um-to-hard” use case, with the SLEEV being up-armored
even further for extra-rough handling, and optimization
for Juggernaut’s line of power and data transfer cables.
Their new line has expanded to include three case op-
tions, instead of two, to cover a wider range of use-cases.
 The outgo-
ing IMPCT
and SLEEV
cases, pictured
here, offered
two levels of
protection; the
new ENDVR,
ADVNTR, and
OPRTR fami-
lies provide
three levels to
choose from.

Juggernaut Case Everyday ENDVR

At the more casual end of the spectrum is their ENDVR
case. The ENDVR is a front-load “snap on” case. Simply The sample phones used here are a Samsung Galaxy
press the phone down into the corners of the case until it S22 and S22 Ultra. If I load the standard S22 into an
stretches and snaps down over the body of your phone. ADVNTR or OPRTR case, it’ll need a medium-sized mount
This is how most commercial phone cases work, but to ride in. But the same phone loaded into an ENDVR
that’s pretty much where the similarities end. case, will use a small-sized mount. Fortunately, Jugger-
Optimized for EDC and weekend warrior adventures, naut marks both their mounts and cases with size icons,
the ENDVR doesn’t feature a port sealing mechanism like Juggernaut’s and all of the new cases are explicitly labeled with the
its counterparts. It does, however, still lock into Jugger- new ENDVR required mount size for that case. If you plan on switch-
naut mounts. Whether you want a belt clip for your work case is slim and ing your phone in and out of the different cases, using
lightweight
pants, a PALS pack adapter for your weekend trail pack, different case models for work and personal phones, or
enough for
or a vehicle mount for road trips, the ENDVR will still fit everyday carry have family members or coworkers using different-sized
securely into any existing Juggernaut mounting interface but is still com- cases than you, you’ll have to bear that in mind as you
— with one caveat. The ENDVR’s design is so sleek that patible with the shop for corresponding mounts. But this difference only
you’ll need to go down one mount size. company’s ex- applies to the ENDVR.
isting belt clips,
vehicle mounts,
and other at-
tachments.

The Juggernaut
ADVNTR (right)
and OPRTR (far
right) are top-
loading designs
with seals for
the ports on
the base of the
phone. The
OPRTR’s seal
locks securely
into place with
two thumb
screws.
 DURABLE
DEVICES
The Juggernaut Extreme ADVNTR and Tactical OPRTR
Case ADVNTR The larger ADVNTR and OPRTR cases are similar in
offers more pro-
form factor. Both are top-load cases, as opposed to snap
tection than the
ENDVR, with on, with a hinged top cover. They both feature a port-seal-
a top-loading, ing mechanism on the bottom. The ADVNTR seals with
slide-in design a pop-off rubber gasket, while the beefier OPRTR has a
and removable larger, buffered bottom plate that secures into the case
rubber seal with two screws. Either one can be completely removed
for the ports at
from the rest of the case and stowed if not needed for
the base of the
phone. daily use.
The ADVNTR and Operator both feature more material
built up around the edge of the screen, creating a deeper
offset for the phone. This is good news if you’re prone to
dropping your phone on its face, when that offset could
save you from a cracked screen. Aside from that, the
OPRTR appears to be an even-more-up-armored ver-
sion of the ADVNTR, slightly taller with more material all
around.
Our sample S22 did require more effort to load into the
OPRTR than the ADVNTR, which indicates the use of ad-
ditional shock-absorbing foam on the interior of the case.
But make no mistake, both of these cases are fit for duty
with law enforcement or mili-
tary units. Also, the ADVNTR
and OPRTR use the same
size mounts — in our case,
they both used medium
mounts for the S22 and XL
mounts for the S22 Ultra.
The OPRTR is
Juggernaut’s
professional-
grade model,
with a heavy-
duty top latch,
thicker mate-
rial on all four
corners, and
compatibility
with Juggernaut
Quick Discon-
nect cables and
charging cradles
that screw into
the case.
ISSUE 57

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 DURABLE
048 OFFGRID
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1A/2A: FOR A REDRESS DEVICES
Design Improvements
We were big fans of the previous-gen IMPCT Jug-
gernaut phone cases, with our editorial staff making
extensive use of them in the field, and the new lines offer
some distinct improvements. In addition to scalability of
protection level, all three of the new case models make
more extensive use of texturing and rubberized grip
material around the edges of the case. We did notice
that, on the older cases, as increased wear smoothed out
the untextured plastic edges, our phones became a little
more prone to slippage and drops.
Not so with any of the new case models. There’s also
the SHLD screen protector (not shown here) available.
In addition to the additional protection for your screen,
the SHLD is available in blue light blocking and privacy-
protection variants.
There’s also more attention to detail in design aesthet- The Armband
ic. The large military-style labels have been moved from Mount is made
the outside to the inside of the case, which also feature from stretchy
Lycra with a
subtle artwork resembling topographical lines on a map.
topo-pattern
The inside of each case also features a cheeky one-liner grip material
or movie quote. You’ll only see it once, when you load on the inside to
your phone into the case, but they’re good for a quick reduce slipping.
chuckle, and the combination of colors and quotes adds
a degree of uniqueness and collectability to an otherwise
utilitarian product.

Speaking of colors, there are some additional op-

tions in that realm as well. The ADVNTR and OPRTR are
available in black, FDE, OD green, and Gunmetal Gray.
The more urbanized ENDVR case is available in black,
Stone Green, Gunmetal Gray, and a lighter limited-edition
Tundra Gray. Pricing, like protection level, is scaled to the
individual cases: $65 for the ENDVR, $80 for the ADVN-
The TR, and $145 for the OPRTR. The SHLD screen protector
Forearm is an additional $50 to $60 depending on model. Even
Mount
maxing out the prices, you’re still looking at just over
features a
ratcheting BOA $200 to not only protect your smartphone to the level of
dial for micro literal battlefield use, but also capitalize on the wide array
adjustment, of mounting and carriage options that can be integrated
ensuring into almost any imaginable use case — from belt clips
it fits the and dashboard docks to skydiving harnesses and body
wearer
armor.
securely.
At time of writing, these new case lines have only been
released for Samsung Galaxy S22 phones, with limited
SOURCE
Juggernaut Case availability for S22 Plus and Ultra models. Juggernaut has
juggernautcase.com told us that iPhone 14 models are coming soon.
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1A/2A: OF GRIEVANCES. 050 OFFGRIDWEB.COM
 Global Expedition
Vehicles’ Pangea-LT
Offers the Comforts
of an RV on an LMTV
4x4 Military Truck
Chassis
By Patrick McCarthy

ISSUE 57

OFFGRIDWEB.COM 051
052 OFFGRID
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The rear of launchers. Most variants use a 5-ton, 6x6 chassis known
the Pangea- as the MTV, but a few were developed on the 2.5-ton, 4x4
LT features a
Light MTV chassis. With a base curb weight of roughly
mounting point
for a full-size 23,000 pounds, the LMTV is only “light” in a comparative
spare wheel sense.
(not currently This particular M1078 LMTV was built by BAE Systems,
installed) as well one of three contractors who manufactured the FMTV
as a trailer hitch for the government. It features all the standard underpin-
John uses to at-
nings: a Caterpillar C7 7.2-liter turbodiesel engine, Allison
tach a carrier for
his dirt bike. seven-speed transmission, integral single-speed trans-
fer case, Meritor axles, and 47-inch off-road tires with a
central inflation system. Technically, the LMTV is all-wheel
drive, since its four wheels are powered with a 30/70
In addition to
front-to-rear torque split at all times. A secondary off-road
the headlights
mode can be selected to split power 50/50 and enable
recessed into
the bumper, this the transmission’s low first gear for more technical terrain.
truck has been
upgraded with Pangea-LT Conversion
nine auxiliary Although many LMTVs make their way onto auction
LightForce LED
sites as military surplus, this build started life as a brand-
lights — both
visible and new chassis with zero miles on the odometer. It was pur-
infrared. chased from BAE Systems by Global Expedition Vehicles
(GXV), who installed a custom 17-foot-long, lifting-roof RV
cabin. The resulting 26-foot-long vehicle is called the GXV
Pangea-LT and cost approximately $450,000. The drive-
train is mostly unmodified, aside from a tune that boosts
engine output from 275 horsepower to 350 and new final
drive gearing that increases top speed from 58 miles per
il-spec is a term that’s often used hour to a more reasonable 75.
by marketing copy writers to imply
extreme toughness, but those who Each alumi-
served in the military understand num beadlock
wheel features
there’s another side to that term.
a central tire
While it’s true that Mil-spec products are thoroughly inflation system
tested and held to precise standards, they’re also built to that allows tire
meet (not necessarily exceed) those standards while stay- pressures to be
ing under a tightly controlled budget. More importantly, adjusted on the
Mil-spec equipment is made to be used and maintained fly. In the case of
a minor punc-
within a military supply chain. For civilian owners who
ture, the system
don’t have access to specially trained service techs and can maintain
warehouses full of spare parts, that can pose a significant pressure until
challenge. the tire can be
replaced.
What’s an LMTV?
The Family of Medium Tactical Vehicles (FMTV) is a
series of U.S. Military vehicles loosely based on the 12M18
military truck originally built by Steyr-Daimler-Puch in
Austria (a branch of the same Steyr that developed the
AUG rifle). The FMTV includes more than a dozen vari-
ants designed to carry anything from troops and cargo
to cranes, mobile command centers, and HIMARS rocket
 BEAST OF
BURDEN

The owner of this Pangea-LT prefers to remain anony- pable than a commercial Ford F-550. The LMTV certainly Above: Hydrau-
mous, so we’ll call him John. John purchased the truck in fit that requirement, and he also appreciated the maneu- lic lifters take
2018, after cross-shopping EarthRoamers and realizing he verability of its cab-over-engine configuration. The mas- only 20 seconds
wanted a chassis that was more rugged and off-road ca- sive tires provide plenty of clearance and grip for expedi- to raise the roof
on the 17-foot
tions off the beaten path, and there’s more than enough
GXV cabin.
space for all his hunting, fishing, and backpacking gear.
Accessing the cabin is as simple as parking the truck Left : Electric
and pressing a button to lift the hydraulic roof — the steps drop
whole process takes only 20 seconds. The primary entry down to allow
entry into the
point is its passenger-side door, which features electric
two-piece cabin
steps, but there’s also a small pass-through hatch that door.
allows direct access from the cab. Inside, you’ll find a
full-size bed, a two-person dining area that converts into
a second bed, and a wet bath with shower and toilet. Ap-
pliances include almost everything you’d expect at home:
a stainless two-drawer fridge/freezer, induction cooktop,
microwave, and an LED TV. It has an air conditioner for
warm days and a heater for cold nights; screened double-
pane glass windows and a skylight let in fresh air.
In the pass-through storage compartment at the rear,
you’ll find the systems that keep the truck off-grid ca-
pable. A Mastervolt marine-grade electrical system keeps
the 1,600-amp-hour batteries charged from an array of BUILDER
300-watt solar panels on the roof. In rare cases where Global Expedition
Vehicles > globalx
solar isn’t sufficient, a small diesel generator can be used
ISSUE 57

vehicles.com
to recharge the batteries, but John says he has only had

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 BEAST OF
054 OFFGRID
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to use it a handful of times. 2012 GLOBAL Closing Thoughts
EXPEDITION VEHICLES
Over the years, John has added a few upgrades to Pangea-LT Despite all the challenges, John has enjoyed many
the LMTV. The front shocks were replaced with King adventures behind the wheel of his Pangea-LT. He
remote-reservoir units for a smoother ride on washboard Chassis frequently takes it on camping trips in Yellowstone Na-
2.5-ton 4x4 BAE LMTV
roads, and the original steel wheels and Michelin tires Cargo (M1078) tional Park, goes fishing deep in the North Fork area of
(which weigh 400 pounds each) were swapped for lighter Engine: CAT C7 7.2L Montana, and heads out for shorter weekend trips closer
six-cylinder turbo-
MRAP aluminum wheels clad in Goodyear tires. The front diesel tuned to 350 hp to home. If he could do it all over again, he says he’d
bumper is outfitted with a heavy-duty winch and auxiliary look harder at a Dodge or Ford chassis with a warranty.
Transmission
lights from LightForce — both visible white and infrared Even though those trucks don’t have as much off-road
Allison 3700 seven-
for driving under night vision. speed automatic with capability as an LMTV, they’d be substantially easier to
single-speed transfer repair and maintain.
case, 3.07 final drive
Bigger Truck, Bigger Problems
Remember how we mentioned the challenges of own- Suspension
King remote-reservoir
ing a Mil-spec vehicle outside the military supply chain? front shocks, custom-
John will be the first to tell you those challenges are very fabricated rear shock
mounts
real. Due to its sheer size and weight, his LMTV averages
around 6 to 7 miles per gallon. Even a simple oil change Wheels & Tires
takes 7 gallons of oil, and leaks should be expected. Swap- 20-inch aluminum
MRAP wheels, 47-inch
ping a tire requires a heavy-duty jack and power tools Goodyear MV/T tires
to overcome the 475 lb-ft lug nut torque. John says tire with Central Tire Infla-
tion System (CTIS)
changes are frequent, since the only tires available are
aging military surplus. In five years of ownership, he has Camper
gone through three Michelins and two Goodyears. Unlike 17-foot GXV Lifting-
Roof Cabin with pass-
the single-battery 12-volt system in regular cars, the LMTV through rear storage
uses a 24-volt electrical system with four batteries, and compartment
John says parasitic drain is a fact of life for this vehicle. If Electronics
you expect the engine to start after more than a few days, Mastervolt marine-
grade electrical
you’ll need to cut off power when you park.
system with 1,600Ah
All of those issues fall under what most people would battery capacity and
call basic maintenance. For any serious repairs, you’d six 300-watt solar
panels, diesel backup
better have a lot of patience and deep pockets. Since generator
the Caterpillar and Allison drivetrain isn’t uncommon,
Interior Features
most diesel truck shops can be convinced to work on Full-size bed, two-
the LMTV, but John says they charge a premium for this person dining area,
shower, cassette
unusual platform — “expect them to turn up prices on
toilet, stainless steel
everything by 50 percent.” Some parts, such as those for sink, fridge/freezer,
the cab and axles, may only be available through surplus microwave, induction
cooktop, LCD TV,
auctions. And even though some people would expect heater, and A/C
a Mil-spec truck to be reliable, this one hasn’t been. John
says the brakes started dragging while the truck was in
motion, leading to a hefty repair bill. Driving on a heavily
rutted trail caused the rear shock mounts to snap, so he
had a fabricator build better mounts. Most recently, the
turbo blew on a cross-country road trip.
If you manage to get stuck in an LMTV, recovery is
another challenge. Most ordinary trucks won’t be able
to budge it with a tow strap, it’ll shatter plastic traction
boards, and it’ll snap a Hi-Lift jack like a twig. John relies
on the front winch, solid steel traction boards, and a set of
Kevlar-reinforced air lifting bags when he takes the truck
off-road.
 PRESENTS

BEST HACKS FOR WORST-CASE SCENARIOS

ORDER TODAY AT
GUNDIGESTSTORE.COM
OR CALL 920.471.4522
1A/2A: NECESSARY TO

Clay and Rachelle Croft of XOverland Discuss Vehicles, Gear,

Skills, and Lessons Learned from Traveling the World
By Patrick McCarthy Photos courtesy of XOverland
verland travel, or overlanding, is a topic skills that could apply to real emergencies. This realiza-
that has seen a surge in interest lately. It tion motivated us to start our RECOIL OFFGRID 4Runner
relates to many of the preparedness skills project and learn more about overlanding.
we’re passionate about — land navigation, While reading about the topic, we came across XOver-
communications, vehicle recovery, water land (aka Expedition Overland or XO), a team that has
purification, and so on — while also being a fun activity for built nearly two dozen vehicles and tested them on a
the whole family. You can pack up your vehicle and head variety of challenging adventures around the world. We
out to explore the wilderness for a weekend, developing spoke with the founders, Clay and Rachelle Croft, about
preparedness experience and getting to know your sur- lessons learned on their travels from the desert roads of
rounding environment better. Like hunting and camping, Baja California to the icy trails of Scandinavia. Read on for
overlanding is both a hobby and a means of developing some of their insights on trucks, gear, and valuable skills.
 ISSUE 57

OFFGRIDWEB.COM 057
 GRID

Clay and Rach- RECOIL OFFGRID: Tell us about how you first got into
elle Croft with overlanding. Was there one specific moment that
one of their
sparked your interest, or was it more of a gradual
three sons.
The whole process?
family usually Clay Croft: When I was younger, I fostered the love of the
goes on these backcountry through years spent mountaineering. When
expeditions, I got married and had children, I started to take small ad-
including their ventures from my truck. After that, two things happened.
canine mas-
I found the TV series Long Way Round [where Ewan
cot, Piper.
McGregor and his friend Charley rode motorcycles east
from London all the way to New York City] and thought to
myself, “How cool would it be to travel around the world
doing that?” At the same time, I came across Overland
Journal and realized there was a whole lifestyle of travel-
ing by vehicle throughout the world. I was hooked.
Rachelle Croft: I learned about overlanding from Clay
and Long Way Round, which we watched together. We’d
go out on day drives in the truck and started making
memories.

Overlanding is a complex term that shares elements

with off-roading, camping, RVing, and various sur-
vival skill sets. How would you define overlanding?
We spent a lot of time talking about this recently and
wrote a blog post on our site about it. Here’s XOverland’s
The crew has built definition of overlanding:
a grand total of 23 “Overlanding describes self-reliant adventure travel to
trucks and SUVs, remote destinations where the journey is the primary
each designed to goal. Typically, but not exclusively, accommodated by
overcome difficult
mechanized off-highway capable transport (from bicycles
terrain and remain
self-sufficient on to trucks) where the principal form of lodging is camp-
long cross-country ing; often lasting for extended lengths of time (months to
journeys. years) and often spanning international boundaries.”
 OVERLAND
EXPERT Q&A
How did your family hobby evolve into a full-time job
with a larger cast and crew?
Cinematography was my job, overlanding was my pas-
XOverland’s
sion, and I somehow found a way to incorporate the two.
We saw an opportunity where the two overlapped, so we
Nordic Series
went for it and never looked back.

We enjoy the way your cinematography helps us feel

Expedition
XOverland’s latest adventure video series is now
like we’re with you on your journeys, but we know it
available for streaming through Overlander Net-
must take a lot of work behind the scenes. What are
work (overlandernetwork.com). The team traveled
some of the challenges of filming your own adven-
through mountainous terrain in Norway, Sweden,
tures?
Finland, Faroe Islands, and Iceland in their custom
The challenge is being present in the moment while
Toyota 4Runner, Tacoma, and Tundra. Check out the
having the presence of mind to recognize where you are
trailer at youtu.be/PWozgmchqMQ
in the story of the journey. Clay's back-
ground in cin-
You’ve called your vehicles other members of the ematography
gave him the
cast. How many have you built, and how has each
skills required
build influenced the next?
to record and
As Expedition Overland, we have built 23 trucks of vari- showcase his
ous degrees of complexity. We use each one as a forging adventures to
process to improve the next. Earlier trucks did the job but the world. How-
were often inefficient or had too much redundancy within ever, he’s always
cautious not to
the fleet or lacked proper organization.
get so caught up
in fi lming that
In your opinion, what makes a great platform for an he forgets to
overland vehicle? What characteristics do you look enjoy the trip.
for when purchasing a new rig?
A great platform includes the
following: 4WD, high reliability, and Is it still possible to get into overlanding with a
the ability to maximize livability for vehicle that’s not a purpose-built off-roader — for
your offroad desires. example, a two-wheel-drive truck or an all-wheel-
drive crossover SUV? What are the pros and cons of
starting with such a vehicle?
Absolutely. People have traveled around the world in a
British taxicab and had an amazing experience while do-
ing it. It all depends on the type of travel you’re interested
in and the destinations that are on your list. If a crossover
SUV will take you to the places you want to go to in the
world, then you should go on the adventure.

If you could only choose five modifications to get start-

ed on a new overland vehicle, what would they be?
Clay: Tires, suspension, refrigerator, live-in camper, and a
long-range fuel tank.
Rachelle: Tires, suspension, refrigerator, rooftop tent, and
a bumper.

What are a few items you’d recommend everyone

carry in their vehicle, whether they’re hitting the
ISSUE 57

trails or just commuting to work?

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060 OFFGRID
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1A/2A: A FREE STATE,

The Nordic
Series expedi-
tion allowed the
XOverland team
to drive and
hike through
some truly
breathtaking
landscapes.

The Croft family

and their crew
recently went on
a Nordic adven-
ture from Iceland
west through the
Faroe Islands,
Norway, Sweden,
and Finland. The
group worked
together through
many challenges
along the way.
 OVERLAND
EXPERT Q&A
Med kit suitable for the family, a “get home” bag, and a The most challenging thing we’ve done thus far was
self-defense item. I personally like my SIG P365 Spectre attempting to fly across the USA in powered paragliders. It
for my everyday carry. I also really love my Shield Arms taught me to really evaluate my physical capabilities and
SA-15 300 BLK pistol with integrated folding brace and my actual skill set in a real way. I got my butt kicked due
SureFire suppressor, SureFire Mini Scout weapon light, to overestimation of my physical and mental capabilities,
and Vortex red dot. which forced me to audit myself. It revealed an overconfi-
dence in my skill sets in which I’ve had to recalibrate to a
We all know that quality gear can make adventures more realistic adventurer.
easier, but experience and skills are what matter
most in the end. What skill sets — such as vehicle Our magazine focuses on general emergency
recovery or repair, land navigation, route planning, preparedness, whether it relates to everyday carry
medical, and so on — have you found most useful items, your vehicle, your home, or even travel
while overlanding, and why? abroad. Has experience with overlanding translated
Medical training, first and foremost, is the most impor- to improved preparedness in other aspects of your
tant skill we utilize. More often, you will have the opportu- life? How so?
nity to help other people instead of yourself. Being in a state of self-reliance for an extended period
The next skill we at XOverland use the most is recovery. of time will force anyone to be better — which translates
Driving is the most dangerous thing we do on a daily ba- to all other aspects of life. These areas can only be truly
sis and having recovery skills at the ever-ready has proven measured in experience, not just training alone. You just
essential many times. have to go out and do it.
Third, overland travel logistics are extremely useful
when overlanding. Overland travel logistics include things What’s one piece of overlanding advice you’d give to
like (but not limited to): when to get food, when to get anyone who’s just getting started?
fuel, how far to go, should you drive at night, what do the Rachelle: Take what you have in your driveway. Start by
borders look like, etc. doing smaller trips. You don’t have to have “all the things”
Another essential skill is self-defense. Take a self-de- before you go. Embrace the problem-solving opportuni-
fense class; you’ll be better prepared in everything you do. ties along the way.
Clay: Begin your travels today but be smart about it. Make
What’s one especially challenging situation you’ve the travel the priority, then the equipment — because the
SOURCE
encountered on your journeys, and what lesson did it travel will eventually dictate the equipment. Enjoy the pro-
XOverland
teach you for the future? cess! It’s fun the whole way, from beginner to advanced. > xoverland.com

ISSUE 57

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 Learn to Grow Your Own Beautiful,
Sustainable, and Versatile Backyard Pharmacy
By Joe Alton, MD
Photos by Amy Alton
 edicine is one of the most substan- publishes “Plant Hardiness” maps: These are divided into
tial problems the family medic faces 10-degee Fahrenheit zones and serve as the standard
if a long-term disaster knocks them by which gardeners and growers can determine which
off the grid. Even with a decent plants will do well at a particular location.
stockpile accumulated over time, Part of the decision-making process is whether to plant
the commercially produced drugs will eventually be annuals or perennials. This may confuse the beginning
expended, leaving even the most skilled provider without medicinal gardener. Given that annual is defined in the
some very important tools to help deal with injuries and dictionary as “occurring every year or once a year,” some
Top right: illnesses. plant them, expecting new plants every spring. Despite the
Coconut coir Planting your own medicinal garden is the best way to dictionary entry, when applied to plants, “annual” means
can absorb 10 provide alternatives to modern medicines in austere set- completing the entire life cycle in one growing season. Pe-
times its weight tings. Until pharmaceuticals were produced in factories, rennial herbs include lavender, mint, thyme, sage, and rose-
in water.
people had to grow their own medicine. This practice mary. Examples of annuals include basil, dill, and fennel.
Bottom right: was a natural part of our heritage and provided needed
Cayenne remedies for many medical issues. A community often
pepper can had a person who served as an herbalist and supervised
be used in the cultivation and processing.
cooking or as a Growing your own medicinal garden is both reward-
medicine.
ing and beneficial. The gardening learning curve can be
Bottom left: steep, so don’t wait until the situation becomes critical
Garlic has to get started. Obtain some gardening supplies, assess
antibacterial weather and soil conditions, and figure out what medici-
and antiviral nal plants might exist in your own backyard.
properties.
Choosing Medicinal Herbs for Your
Garden
The medicinal plants you select should match the
climate as much as possible. For some, that means that
the herbs must survive the winter; for others, the sum-
mer heat or dry periods. The Department of Agriculture

DISCLAIMER
This is a general
overview and not a
comprehensive guide
to medicinal gardening.
Seek professional
medical advice and
study potential side-
effects carefully before
attempting to treat any
injury or illness with
natural remedies.
064
1A/2A: OF THE PEOPLE

Root crops can and allow for more air flow. It also provides nutrients for
be harvested plant growth. Gardeners make compost with grass clip-
with hoes or
pings, leaves, shredded paper, kitchen waste like uncooked
trowels.
vegetable and fruit peels, and other organic matter.
You’ll need a large container with a lid; some newer
commercial composters come in “tumblers” that allow
you to periodically turn the compost for more oxygen.
Then, put the compost materials in and cover with soil
and/or herbivore manure (be aware that dog, cat, or pig

Chamomile
flowers are
used in teas as a
sleep aid and to
relieve muscle
tension.

Refer to our sidebar for a list of some of the most com-

mon and useful plants to consider.

Ensuring Success
Once you have identified the plants with medicinal ben-
efits that match up with your zone (and your likely needs),
Herbs like
select a well-drained, sunny area with healthy soil. Al- rosemary are
though some herbs grow well in shade, most plants need simple to plant
at least six to eight hours of full sun for proper growth and and grow.
development. Potting is appropriate for medicinal plants
that might need to be taken inside during a cold winter.
Water should be provided on a regular basis to allow the
soil to stay moist, but not muddy or waterlogged.
Soil in many areas must often be amended for the best
results. For a well-draining soil, mix potting soil with perlite
and peat moss or coconut coir. Perlite is a white granular
material that’s lightweight, sterile, and easy to handle.
It’s neither alkaline nor acidic. Perlite absorbs water, but
it also improves drainage. Coconut coir is the material
between the outer shell of the coconut and the inner
shell. You might have seen it as the liner for many hang-
ing flower baskets. It’s inexpensive, reusable, available in
compressed bales, and holds up to 10 times its weight in
water. It helps provide good aeration when mixed with wa-
ter and native soil. Plus, like perlite, it’s pH neutral. Coconut
coir also helps resist a number of insects and diseases. On
top of your mix, place some mulch or pine straw to hold
in moisture and reduce weeds.

Composting
Composting is an excellent way to enrich your soil. Com-
post improves the soil by helping it retain more moisture
 sules. Garlic may help lower blood pres- sential oil. The tea or
sure, reduce cholesterol, thin the blood tincture can help reduce
to help protect against blood clots, and stress and relieve
lower blood sugar levels. It has antibac- headaches. Applied as a
Here’s a list of medicinal plants you may terial and antiviral properties, which diluted oil, it may relieve
consider growing, as well as their benefits makes it useful for treating both diges- muscle or joint pain.
and the most commonly used part of the tive and respiratory infections. Sage: The fresh or dried leaves are used to
plant: Ginger: The rhizomes are used to make make a tea or tincture. Fresh leaves are
a tea, essential oil, capsule, or tincture. sometimes crushed and applied directly
Aloe Vera: The gel from the leaf is used to Ginger is excellent for use in digestive to the skin for the relief of stings and bug
heal and soothe rashes, burns, and cuts. disorders. It can help relieve both morn- bites. The tea is good to relieve a sore
Arnica: Flowers and rhizomes (under- ing sickness and motion sickness. throat, canker sores, or sore gums when
ground stems) are utilized in very dilute Ginseng: The roots are used to make a tea, used as a gargle.
concentrations in ointments or salves for tincture, or incorporated into capsules. It Senna: The fresh or dried pods are used
joint and muscle pain. is used to reduce the effects of physi- commonly in a tea to treat constipation.
Calendula: The flowers are used fresh or cal and mental stress. It stimulates the St. John’s Wort: The fresh or dried flower-
dried and made into teas, creams, and immune system to help the body fight ing tops are used to make a tea, tincture,
salves. Calendula may relieve intestinal viruses and bacterial infections. cream, or infused oil. Most commonly
cramps, minor burns, rashes, eye infec- Goldenseal: The rhizomes are used to said to be a relaxant and helpful for
tions, and decrease the severity of some produce an eye wash for infections, as depression, premenstrual syndrome, and
viral infections. a mouthwash for swollen or infected menopausal symptoms.
Cayenne Pepper: The pepper itself is used gums, or as an external treatment for Thyme: The fresh or dried aerial parts are
dried and powdered, infused in oil, or psoriasis. used to produce a tea,
mixed in a salve or cream. Good exter- Lavender: The fresh or dried flowers are tincture, syrup, and
nally for arthritic pain as a salve. Apply- used to produce a tea, tincture, infu- essential oil. The tea or
ing cayenne powder directly on a wound sion, or essential oil. It calms nervous syrup may be helpful
may help stop mild bleeding. conditions, relieves muscle or intestinal for use in treating colds
Chamomile: The flowers cramps, and loosens tight airways. Ap- and flu.
are used in teas, salves, plied externally, it is an antiseptic for Turmeric: The fresh or dried rhizome
and creams. The tea is open wounds and mild burns. It relieves is used in a tea, tincture, poultice, or
known to be relaxing and itching and inflammation, and can be powder. It is said to have a strong anti-
is used to relieve muscle used to relieve bug bites and rashes. inflammatory action, and may help with
tension and cramps. It Lemon Balm: The fresh or dried aerial asthma, arthritis, stomach cramps, and
also helps with insomnia, calms an upset parts are used to pro- eczema. Externally, it is useful in treating
stomach, and may also reduce joint duce a juice, tea, or fungal infections, psoriasis, and other
inflammation. salve. It can alleviate itchy rashes.
Echinacea: The flowers and roots are used nervous conditions, Valerian: The roots and rhizomes are used
to produce teas or incorporated into abdominal cramps, to produce a tea, tincture, or powder. It
capsules. It is known to have immune and muscle aches. has a sedative effect and is commonly
stimulating effects and may help reduce Peppermint: The fresh or dried aerial parts used to reduce stress, induce relaxation,
allergies such as hay fever. are used to make a tea, capsules, and es- and help with insomnia.
Elder: Tea or syrup made of the flowering sential oil. The tea is helpful for intestinal Witch Hazel: An alcohol infusion of the
tops are good for coughs, colds, flu, and spasms and may reduce gas, cramps, and bark is used as an astringent to reduce
reducing allergies. diarrhea. As a diluted hemorrhoids. It can also stop itching
Feverfew: The fresh or dried leaves and essential oil, it helps from insect stings.
flowers are used to help treat or prevent relieve headaches and Yarrow: Fresh or dried aerial parts are
migraine headaches and also reduce migraines when a small used to make a tea, tincture, essential oil,
fevers. This herb may also help with amount is gently mas- or a poultice to heal wounds. Some claim
arthritic conditions. saged into the temples. that it reduces bleeding from wounds.
Garlic: The fresh cloves are used (crushed) Rosemary: The fresh or dried leaves are
to make a tea, tincture, syrup, or cap- used to produce a tea, tincture, or es-
066
1A/2A: TO KEEP

You may be able to grow warmer climate plants by

protecting them from the cold with greenhouses or us-
ing row covers. This will expand the range of medicinal
plants you may choose to grow either in pots or around
your homestead.

Seeds and Cuttings

Now you can sow your seeds. Different plant seeds are
placed at different depths of the soil. Usually, it’s better
to plant too shallow than too deep. Some, like certain
lettuces, aren’t buried at all. A good general strategy is to
plant seeds at a depth which equals two to three times
their width. A layer of mulch can help maintain even
moisture levels in dry conditions. Make sure to read the
seed packet for specifics.
Some herbs like mint and comfrey rarely produce
viable seed, so “cuttings” are another option. A cut-
Above: Herbs ting is a section of plant originating from stem, leaf, or
do just fine root that’s capable of developing into a new plant. This
in pots and strategy involves placing the section in water or some
containers.
other growing medium until roots develop. You’ll need
Left: The right sharp scissors or a razor blade, a healthy mother plant, a
soil mix and soilless potting mix, some rooting hormone, and small (4
tools lead to a inch or so) containers. Soilless mixes like perlite, vermicu-
successful herb lite, sand, and coconut coir are used because they have
garden.
less microbes that inhibit root growth. Water can be used
instead of a mix, although planting afterward seems less
Below: Different
successful than with mixes.
herbs fail
or succeed Cuttings taken from new, green, non-woody stems
depending on make for easier rooting. Look for a stem with a bump
plant hardiness. somewhere near a leaf attachment. This is the area from

poop has a higher chance of containing parasites). Cow

manure has the most nutrients. Microbes slowly degrade
the container contents into nutrient-rich compost.
Adding some red worms will speed up the process.
The worms will eat the plant matter and poop “worm
castings.” Worm castings are organic matter that contains
a mixture of bacteria, enzymes, remnants of plant matter,
and other substances. They help prevent the soil from
becoming too acidic or too alkaline.
For organic pest and disease control, consider putting
together a soapy mixture of one tablespoon of neem oil,
one teaspoon of Dr. Bronner’s lavender, peppermint Cas-
tile soap, and perhaps a few drops of tea tree essential
oil in about four to eight cups of water. The combination
makes a great natural disease and pest control. As a
preventative, spray foliage in the late afternoon every five
to seven days or after a heavy rain. Shorter intervals are
acceptable if current diseases or pests are being treated.
 Pick the herbs most likely
to thrive in your area.

Just like any off-grid activity, the right tools make life easier and increase
your chances of success. Consider these items:

Shovels: Shovels have a long shaft Trowels: Trowels look like tiny
and a concave, angled tip for shovels and are handheld tools
scooping up material and break- to help plant, transplant or dig.
ing up soil. Wheelbarrows: A cart with sloped
Spades: Spades look similar to sides and a single front wheel,
shovels but tend to have a short- wheelbarrows allow you to haul
er shaft and a flat, rectangular around significant amounts of
blade to slice through roots and soil, compost, and other garden
into dirt. materials. Other garden carts
Shears: Garden shears cut small may have two or more wheels.
branches, stems, and other plant Hoses, nozzles, and hose reels:
growth. Hoses deliver water where it’s
which new roots will emerge. Use clean scissors or a Rakes: Rakes are tined instru- needed; reels allow you to neat-
razor blade dipped in alcohol and cut at a 45-degree ments that clear leaves, weeds, ly wind up and store your hose.
angle just below the leaf attachment, sometimes called and other garden waste, and Nozzles let you change pressure
a “node.” The cutting should be a few inches long and help with sowing. and shape of the spray.
contain a leaf or two plus the node. Although a leaf is Hoes: Either long-handled or hand- Watering cans: Portable contain-
necessary for photosynthesis, too many or a leaf that’s held, hoes help turn and clear ers with a long spout that move
too large will take away energy from root creation. If the soil, remove weeds, and harvest small amounts of water.
leaf is large, cut off a portion from the end. root crops. Gardening gloves: Gloves are
Your chances of success might be higher with rooting Pitchforks: Two- to five-tined important to keep your hands
hormone. Rooting hormone stimulates the formation of pitchforks help you lift and pitch protected and clean while work-
new roots. Dip the node into some water and then into garden materials like manure ing in the garden.
the rooting hormone. Tap off excess; too much actually and hay.
decreases the success rate. Use a stick to make a hole
slightly wider than the cutting. This will prevent rooting
hormone from being knocked off the plant. Firm the soil
around the cutting to stabilize it.
Place the whole thing into a plastic bag. This keeps the
humidity high and holds in heat. Air is important, howev-
er, so don’t seal the bag completely. Keep in a warm area
with a little light, but full sunlight isn’t necessary until new
leaves form. Watch for two to three weeks, discarding any
failed rootings. After this, a gentle tug on the plant should
show some resistance, a sign that rooting has occurred.
At this point, you have a new living plant.

Harvesting
Each plant is different, and when to harvest even de-
pends on the part of the plant involved. Flowers are har-
vested when they open but before they are pollinated. In
general, flowers should be harvested on dry days before
the intense heat of the sun removes the fragrance from
the petals, but after the morning dew has dried.
068
1A/2A: AND BEAR ARMS,

Peat moss, on climate, soil conditions, and other factors. Like vintag-
perlite, and
es of wine, each year may yield higher or lower quality of
coconut coir
effect. In addition, many have risks if used in pregnancy
are useful to
improve soil or in those with certain medical conditions, especially
quality. those requiring blood-thinners.
There’s a lot more to putting together an effective me-
dicinal garden when the medications run out. Diligently
research the data on each herb and decide which will do
well in your area and meet your medical needs. Don’t de-
lay: The last thing you want is to go through the garden-
ing learning curve after you’re thrown off the grid.

Perlite
improves soil
aeration and
drainage.

Many herbs bestow multiple benefits to the garden-

er. Take the herb known as thyme, a low-growing
Burn remedy herb often used in cooking. In addition, it:
aloe vera is > Acts as a ground cover to suppress weeds and
most easily keep the soil moist.
propagated by > Produces flowers that attract pollinators.
separating out
> Has edible leaves.
its “pups.”
> Is useful in teas for sore throats, colds, and flus.
> Serves to naturally deter pests due to its aroma.

About the Author

Joe Alton, MD, is a physician, medical preparedness
advocate, and New York Times bestselling author of
It’s preferable to take just the amount of plant material The Survival Medicine Handbook: The Essential Guide
you’re ready to process for use or storage. Otherwise, for When Help Is Not On The Way, now in its 700-
rapid deterioration could occur and degrade the me- page 4th edition. He is also an outdoor enthusiast
dicinal benefit of the herbs. Herbs can be preserved by and member of The Wilderness Medical Society. His
air- or oven-drying, and then stored in a sterile dark glass website at doomandbloom.net has over 1,300 articles,
jar with airtight lids. For the longest shelf life of about 12 podcasts, and videos on medical preparedness as well
months, make sure conditions are cool, dry, and dark. as an entire line of quality medical kits designed by
Vacuum sealing the jar helps. the author and packed in the United States.
Of course, the strength of a medicinal herb depends
070
1A/2A: SHALL NOT
HANDSON

By Patrick McCarthy

Our 2022 4Runner

Overland Project Gets
a CFX3 Fridge for Food
Storage on the Trail
 hen you’re planning a road trip, Dometic CFX3 55IM Features & Specs
food and drinks are a necessity. For Once I decided to pick up a 12-volt fridge for my 4Runner
trips on major highways, it’s easy to project, I quickly settled on Dometic, a company that has
make a pit stop at a convenience been a leader in mobile refrigerators since 1968. Dometic
store to buy sodas and snacks or fridges are popular in the RV and “van life” markets among
hit a grocery store or restaurant for larger meals. However, folks who live on the road for months at a time, so I figured
when you’re venturing off the beaten path — especially for they’d offer a dependable solution for the shorter camping
multiday off-road expeditions — you’ll need to bring all your and overland trips I have planned. Specifically, I chose the
food and beverages with you. While it’s true that you could Dometic CFX3 55IM model, which offers a 53-liter storage ca-
rely entirely on shelf-stable MREs and freeze-dried camping pacity and built-in ice maker. That capacity is equivalent to 83
meals, these items are often costly, unappetizing, and/or soda cans and should have no trouble holding enough food
unhealthy due to high levels of sodium and preservatives. for a small family for a week. MSRP for this model is $1,080.
The ability to bring real food — fresh meat, eggs, cheese, This fridge is a single-zone model, so aside from the small
fruits, veggies, and so on — makes every trip more enjoyable, ice tray, it keeps all its contents at one temperature. It can
whether it’s a half-day solo outing or a cross-country family be set as low as -7 degrees F to keep food frozen solid, at
expedition. Fresh food isn’t just tastier, it’s healthier and a more typical 36 degrees F for refrigeration, or as high as
more cost-effective than vacuum-packed “camping food.” 50 degrees F to conserve energy and keep nonperishable
This realization led me to upgrade my 2022 4Runner over- contents cool.
land vehicle build with a Dometic CFX3 fridge, which runs on Dometic’s VMSO3 compressor uses standard R134a refriger-
ISSUE 57

AC power from a wall outlet or 12V DC power from a vehicle ant and can run on either AC power from a wall outlet or 12/24-
or mobile battery pack. volt DC power (rated at 8.9 amps) from a cigarette-lighter-style

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HANDSON

automotive outlet. A pair of 6.6-foot cables are

included for each power source. Thanks to a vibra-
tion- and noise-reducing housing, the compressor is
also surprisingly quiet; it’s rated at 48 dB(A), and I had no
trouble sleeping in the 4Runner right next to it.
Unlike residential fridges that get a constant supply of
“clean” electricity from the power grid, mobile fridges are over a
designed to run on vehicle alternators, batteries, and solar- Wi-Fi network
powered systems that have much greater voltage fluctua- (for remote access).
tions. The Dometic CFX3 has smart voltage regulation to This offers the ability to power the
deal with inconsistent or “dirty” power sources. Its three- fridge on or off, see current DC voltage, and
stage dynamic battery protection system ensures the fridge check temperature history in the last hour, day, or over
will turn off before it fully depletes your truck’s battery — in the course of a week. On this same graph, energy consump-
a worst-case scenario, your food will get warm, but at least tion data (in amp hours per hour) is tracked to help you fore-
you won’t also be stranded. (For deep-draw dual-battery cast how long the fridge will run under current conditions.
systems, you can limit or disable this safeguard.) It’s possible to set an alarm at a temperature threshold, alert-
ing anyone in the vicinity if the fridge starts warming up due
Ice Maker to low battery or ambient conditions. The app can also send a
The “IM” in this fridge’s name indicates that it features an notification if the lid is left open for more than 3 minutes.
ice maker with two removable silicone ice cube trays. When Without the aid of the app, the CFX3’s functions can be
the ice maker is turned on via a menu setting, it’ll produce controlled through the built-in weatherproof buttons and
50 small cubes of ice in a few hours. It’s just right for a nice color display. The display prominently shows input volt-
cocktail at the end of a long day on the trail. age, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth status, current temperature, and
any alerts or notifications the user has configured. A setup
Controls & Monitoring menu allows the user to turn the ice maker on or off, change
Through the CFX3 mobile app for iOS or Android, users temperature units, adjust battery protection level, configure
can connect to the fridge over Bluetooth (short range) or wireless network settings, and more.
 The CFX3 mobile
app offers control
over all the
fridge’s settings,
including Wi-Fi
network access
and battery
protection level.
If the fridge is
connected to an
external battery,
the Low setting
can be used to
keep the fridge
running until the
battery drops
to 10.1V, extend-
ing run time;
Medium shuts off
at 11.2V, and High
shuts off at 11.8V.

An Unpleasant Surprise: Screenshots

showing internal
Warranty Exchange temperature and
When I received the CFX3 fridge power consump-
and excitedly removed it from its box, tion in 50-de-
I noticed the latch on the lid seemed gree ambient
temperature and
crooked. After taking a closer look, I 80-degree ambi-
realized all three of the small screws ent temperature.
that were supposed to attach it to the Note that the
Ah/h graph scale
lid were missing, and the latch fell out
isn’t consistent
in my hand. I scoured the box, but the between the two
screws were nowhere to be found. This screenshots;
was mildly annoying, but I figured I don’t pay atten-
tion to the height
could always ask Dometic to mail me of the bars, only
some replacement screws — not the to the numbers
end of the world. But that was only the they indicate.
tip of this iceberg (no pun intended).
As I plugged in the CFX3 fridge for
the first time, the screen greeted me
with a bright red message: !WARNING
33. After checking the manual, this
warning code indicates compressor
failure. I followed the instructions and
power-cycled the fridge, but this error
ISSUE 57

persisted, and the compressor refused

to start on AC or DC power. Thinking

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074
ISSUE 57
HANDSON
The three screws that this fridge must have been built at 4:50 pm on a Friday, I
that were sup-
picked up my phone and called Dometic customer service. A
posed to retain
the latch were helpful and sympathetic young lady listened to my descrip-
seemingly never tion of the issue and walked me through some troubleshoot-
installed at the ing steps, but eventually determined that the unit was defec-
factory. This was
only the begin- tive and would need to be exchanged under warranty.
ning of the issues Dometic provided an RMA shipping label, and I boxed up
with the fi rst the fridge and dropped it off at a local FedEx store. Twenty-
CFX3 I received.
seven (yes, 27) days later, I received a replacement CFX3
Plugging in the 55IM. Needless to say, this was a frustrating experience and
fridge resulted in certainly not what I expected from a $1,000 product from a
a bright red error
well-known brand. However, this is a sample size of one, and
message on the
display as well as I may have simply been very unlucky.
the mobile app. Thankfully, the replacement fridge had a properly installed
latch and a functional compressor, so I proceeded with testing.

In the Field
I took my new Dometic CFX3 fridge out on a three-day
camping trip for some field testing. Ambient temperatures
ranged from about 30 degrees F at night to about 65 de-
grees F during the day. Before the trip, I plugged the fridge
into an AC power outlet at my house to “pre-cool” to my de-
sired setting of 36 degrees F, and then packed it with food.
Next, I loaded it into the back of my 4Runner and connected
it to the 12V DC plug on the front of my Goal Zero Yeti 1500X
power station (as reviewed in Issue 52 of RECOIL OFFGRID).

!Warning 33 corresponded to a
compressor failure. This meant I had
received a defective fridge and would
need to exchange it under warranty.
 All this food fit into
our CFX3 55IM
fridge, with room
to spare and no
concerns about
melting ice. The
removable bas-
kets make loading
and cleaning easy.

A drain plug at the

bottom of the Do-
metic CFX3 allows
users to wash out
the fridge easily.

The area above

the ice tray is
ideal for storing
smaller items like
canned drinks.

Two input ports

behind dust
covers allow
the fridge to be
connected to
AC or DC power
sources.

remind my friends to give the lid an extra firm push to make

sure it closed.
My Yeti 1500X battery has a rated capacity of 1,516-watt
hours, or 140.4 amp hours (Ah) at 10.8 volts. At a full 12V, that
works out to 126Ah. During the trip, power draw hovered
around 0.5Ah per hour on average, which equates to a total
of 36Ah over the course of the 72-hour test.
In simpler terms, the fridge used a little less than 30 per-
cent of the power station’s capacity in three days (about 10
The ice tray percent per day).
contains two Granted, the cool to cold weather was ideal for this test.
removable ice
Later, I tested the CFX3 in 80-degree ambient tempera-
cube molds.
tures, and it consumed about 1.4Ah per hour on average.
The Yeti was connected via a Yeti 12V car charging cable Under these warm conditions, it’ll use roughly 72 percent
to a DC plug in the back of the 4Runner. When the truck is of the Yeti 1500X’s battery in three days (about 24 percent
running, it charges the power station, which provides stable per day). Keep in mind that opening the lid frequently will
power to the fridge; when the truck isn’t running, the fridge increase energy consumption. These run times may also be
runs solely off the power station’s battery. extended by changing the fridge’s battery protection mode
During the trip, the CFX3 mobile app showed a stable in- to allow lower minimum voltage.
ternal temperature that only fluctuated up and down slightly Regardless of the weather, I should have no trouble at all
as the compressor cycled on and off. The insulation appears running the CFX3 fridge for several days on the Goal Zero
ISSUE 57

quite good, and the latch clicks shut for an airtight seal. If I’m battery without needing to start the truck’s engine or plug in
being picky, it might be a little too tight, since I did have to a solar panel.

OFFGRID
GRID
GRIDWEB.COM
076
ISSUE 57
HANDSON
The Yeti 1500X provided more than enough power for the
fridge, as well as my other electronic devices. In long-term
off-grid settings, a solar panel can be used to recharge it.
Fridge or Cooler?
Virtually everyone already owns a regular cooler or ice chest, whether it’s
an old Coleman or a fancy new Yeti. These insulated containers can keep
things cold for a few days with the addition of a couple bags of ice. That
said, there are numerous reasons most American homes switched from
insulated iceboxes to electric refrigerators nearly 80 years ago. Many of
these reasons also apply to storing food at campsites and in vehicles.

Here are some of the problems associated with ice-filled coolers:

> Ice melts quickly. In warm climates, or if your cooler isn’t very well-
insulated or sealed, your ice may melt in 48 hours or less. Then, you’ll
need to go buy more, which leads to our next point ...
> Ice must be resupplied frequently. Buying ice isn’t expensive, but the
cost does add up, and it’s certainly a hassle. More importantly, there are
many places where you simply won’t be able to resupply — multiday
camping or hunting trips in remote locations, for example.
> Food safety is a serious concern. Ice keeps your cooler extremely cold
(maybe even too cold) at first, but the temperature gradually rises over
Closing Thoughts time as the ice melts. In the beginning, you may freeze food inadver-
Despite my frustration toward the defective unit I initially tently; at the end, perishable items such as meat and dairy may creep up
received and the delay in receiving a replacement, my into the greater than 40 degrees F “danger zone” where bacteria thrives.
experience with the CFX3 fridge improved dramatically once Nothing ruins a day faster than puking your guts out due to spoiled food.
I got one that wasn’t a dud. The fridge feels sturdy and du- > Ice makes a mess. Once it’s melted, you’re left with a cooler full of tepid
rable, fits nicely into the back of my 4Runner, and has tons of water that leaves remaining contents soggy. And if your cooler’s drain
space for food and drinks. I loaded it with bacon, eggs, hash doesn’t seal perfectly, that water may leak and soak all your other gear.
browns, and salsa for breakfast burritos, plus cream for the > Coolers can be surprisingly expensive. High-end, American-made cool-
coffee I made in my JetBoil each morning. It held cold cuts, ers can easily set you back $400 to $600, especially if you want fea-
sliced cheese, and condiments for sandwiches at lunchtime. tures like wheels and latches. You can always buy the bargain brand for
For dinner, we had more steaks, burger patties, and brats a fraction of the cost, but it might not be as durable or as well-insulated.
than we could eat. All that barely put a dent in the cavernous
capacity of the CFX3 55IM — it’s amazing how much room If you’re a serious camper, hunter, or overland enthusiast, 12-volt refrig-
you have for food when your cooler isn’t half full of ice. erators alleviate many of the problems above, but they’re not without
I was pleasantly surprised by how quiet and energy- drawbacks. Here are some of the downsides to buying a mobile fridge:
efficient the CFX3 was in the field. My Yeti battery had no > High up-front cost. Fridges aren’t cheap, especially if you’re seeking
trouble running it for several days and should be able to one large enough to feed a whole family for several days. Dometic’s
manage a week of typical use in cool weather. And the ice current offerings range from $500 to $1,400. However, we’d argue the
maker, while not necessary, is an added luxury that impress- long-term benefits outweigh the cost.
es everyone when you’re 50 miles from civilization. > They’re only as good as your power source. In many cases, this is as
Any time it’s not sitting in my vehicle, I keep this fridge simple as plugging your fridge into the 12-volt outlet in your vehicle, but
plugged in to the wall in my “man cave” as a mini fridge for those outlets typically only provide power when the engine is running. If
drinks. There’s also an emergency preparedness value to you’re parking longer than a few hours, you should have a battery, power
consider — if the power goes out due to a storm, I can load bank, or solar panel that can keep the fridge running and the food cold
perishable items from my home fridge into the Dometic until you start driving again.
and run it off battery power. The food doesn’t spoil, and the
day is saved. Keep that one in mind in case you need to
SOURCES
convince your spouse that your $1,000 fridge isn’t just for Dometic > dometic.com
keeping beer cold. Goal Zero > goalzero.com
 ORDER TODAY
ORDER TODAY AND YOUR MAGAZINES WILL BE
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078
ISSUE 57
BAGDROP

Bayou nvariably, when I read articles on bug-out bags and

overlanding, the bags and scenarios revolve around
a setting in the Western states and/or an arid,
mountainous environment. Honestly, I feel left out. I

Bug-Out
reside in the Deep South just outside New Orleans,
and we face a completely different problem — rather than
a lack of water, it’s too much water. I have ridden out a half-
dozen landfalls in my time here, including Hurricane Katrina.

Bag
My experience after Katrina prompted me to put together

A Vehicle-Based a go-bag designed around my need to shelter in place, self-

rescue, and/or extricate from the area. This bag doesn’t cover
Emergency Kit food, water, or personal hygiene items — it covers the “heavy

for Survival in equipment” end of things, which is what I lacked on my first

go-around.
the Louisiana
About the Bag
Wetlands I must admit I enjoy a bit of unfair privilege regarding bag
By Brad Gilpin
selection — my employment as the director of medical pro-
grams for Blue Force Gear allows me access to some of the
best load carriage gear available. Our product development
shop recently began working on a bag for a military entity
to carry heavy breaching and rescue equipment. I was lucky
enough to get my hands on one of the prototypes. It has
stowable backpack straps, a shoulder strap, and reinforced
carry handles, as well as a fully opening top cover and side
slit pockets for smaller items. I also appreciate the quality of
construction, a characteristic we’ve put a lot of effort into.
It’s light for its size yet strong enough to carry the needed
equipment. While you won’t find this bag on the Blue
Force Gear website, it’s available for special orders by mil/
LE units (email [email protected] for more info).

Tools & Recovery Gear

I’ve become highly reliant on rechargeable battery tech,
and at the heart of my system is a 1,000-amp battery pack.
It has USB ports to recharge my phone, can jump start a
vehicle, and has a built-in air compressor. A small zipper bag
of cords allows me to charge almost any device. Once my
truck is running, the built-in power inverter can charge my
larger tools.
The next largest item in the kit is a battery-powered
Reciprocating Saw (what many people call a Sawzall). This
tool has replaced a chain saw as my go-to tool, primarily
due to the ability to quickly swap out blade types. I carry
wood, carbon steel, carbide, and bimetal cutting blades. In
the days after Katrina, I was climbing onto the second-story
roofs of houses from a flat boat (the water was high enough
I could just step onto the roof) in order to cut people out of
their attics. Whether it’s downed limbs, fences, locks, cables,
or other obstructions blocking my egress, I have yet to
run across a cutting chore I was unable to perform. This
same tool, paired with a side angle grinder and diamond
blade, is utilized by the U.S. Air Force PJs for most of their
rescue breaching tasks. I once saw them remove a hatch
from a Bradley in under 2 minutes by cutting the hinges.
Despite my love for rechargeable tools, I’d be remiss if
I didn’t account for the very real possibility of losing that
capability. For that scenario, I have a Gerber Downrange
Tomahawk Breaching Tool that functions as an ax, ham-
mer, and prybar. Paired with the Gerber Doubledown fold-
ing machete, I’m ready for cutting if things go manual. In case
my vehicle gets stuck in mud — a common occurrence in Loui-
siana — my kit contains a folded Glock Entrenching Tool. That
and a 10,000-pound-capacity snatch strap have yet to fail me
in removing a litany of vehicles from our Gumbo Mud.
Mother Nature doesn’t keep banker’s hours, and we
humans are creatures of the light, so my kit includes both a Medical Equipment
flashlight and headlamp from the Streamlight ProTac 2.0 line. Speaking of safety, let’s talk medical — a subject close to
Each puts out a staggering 2,000 lumens in High mode and my heart. One must understand the difference between a
can run up to 25 hours on Low. Both lights recharge from a first aid kit and a trauma kit. They should be two separate
USB-C cord that I can plug right into my power station. things; I plan to address that subject in detail in a future
To keep everything running, including my rifle and hand- article. This bag was designed around the heavy equipment
gun, I keep a smattering of hand tools and a Fix It Sticks tools concept and, correspondingly, I only carry a trauma kit
“The Works” tool kit. I can’t say enough good things about in it, specifically the BFG Medium Trauma Kit NOW! It offers
this compact kit. It was primarily designed for firearms- me enough gear to treat one to two critical casualties in
related tasks, but with 24 different bits and a variety of other the immediate aftermath of a traumatic incident. It’s not an MAKE & MODEL
Blue Force Gear
tools, it’s a multipurpose item. I also carry a roll of 100mph operating room in a bag, but it’ll save a life in the short term. Rescue Equipment
Bag (Prototype)
tape for those times that I can’t turn it with a tool or beat it Notice the tourniquet attached to the lid of the TKN! and re-
with my breaching ax. member that your tourniquet (better yet, tourniquets plural) URL
blueforcegear.com
Did I mention that we have an abundance of water down always belongs outside of your trauma kit. You shouldn’t be
here? Without a doubt, the most expensive item in my kit digging through a medical kit to access that device.
(and possibly the most important) is my Mustang Survival Rounding out my go-bag are a few other items. There’s a
RATIS inflatable PFD (Personal Flotation Device). Prior to Seldon WaterStick for emergency water purification. In a nod
having this device, I struggled with having a water safety to “snivel gear,” I also carry a lightweight packable rain jacket,
component in my kit. A standard flotation vest was too a Kifaru ground cloth/shelter half, and a SOL two-person
bulky to carry around, yet I often found myself working in Emergency Bivvy (you never know when you might need to
or around water without notice. I grew up in the water and snuggle up). Lastly, there’s a hand-crank radio for National
know that familiarity breeds contempt, and contempt can Weather Service reports and emergency USB charging.
get you killed. The RATIS weighs a whopping one (yes, one)
pound and is so small in its stored shape that you can work Closing Thoughts
with it on all day long. When deployed, either automatically As I said in the beginning, this go-bag isn’t universal, and
when submerged or manually by pulling the inflation handle, your needs may vary. However, this one has served me well
it offers 40 pounds of buoyancy. The RATIS can be attached for a while. If you live in a coastal area or anywhere subject
to a plate carrier or, as in my case, can function as a stand- to a natural disaster, I hope this helps guide your thinking
ISSUE 57

alone PFD via the included “BRO” harness system. This is a toward what you might need to have on hand should the
must-have item for me. worst happen.

OFFGRIDWEB.COM 079
THEFINALWEAPON
Low-Profile Carbine
By Patrick McCarthy

resident Biden famously said, “You don’t one mag into the gun, dropped a spare into a pocket, and
need an AR-15. It’s harder to aim. It’s harder stepped onto the range.
to use. And, in fact, you don’t need 30 Each student worked in three- to five-round strings, learn-
rounds to protect yourself. Buy a shotgun.” ing to reset the trigger quickly under recoil and adjust point
He continued, “If there’s ever a problem, just of impact based on optical offset at close range. We practiced
walk out on the balcony here … put that double-barreled the three ready positions — low ready, high ready, and muzzle
shotgun, just walk out on the balcony and fire two blasts out- up (aka high port) — to get a feel for the situational pros and
side the house.” Politics aside, we shouldn’t need to tell you cons of each. For example, the latter might be necessary to
this is bad advice — in any defensive shooting situation, you’ll keep the muzzle pointed away from bystanders or family
need to account for every round you fire, so blindly slinging members in tight spaces. A variety of drills were conducted
buckshot off the porch is a terrible idea. Furthermore, I’d between 10 and 30 yards, leading us to vary our shooting
argue that a 30-round capacity, semi-automatic, low-recoil cadence based on distance and target size. Accuracy and
carbine is in fact an excellent choice for home defense. How- shot accountability were repeatedly emphasized, because as
ever, simply placing an AR-15 by your bedside isn’t enough I mentioned earlier, you’re legally and morally responsible for
to be fully prepared. If your carbine is your first-line defensive every round you fire. That said, Martinez didn’t expect perfec-
tool, you should also train with that carbine. More important- tion from students, and reminded us that an effective hit is
ly, your training should be realistic to the scenario. still an effective hit even if it’s slightly off-center. The key is the
Rogue Methods is a training company founded by U.S. ability to get those hits on demand, under stress, and quickly
Army veteran and former Chicago PD undercover officer enough to remain unharmed by an attacker.
Raul Martinez Jr. — you can read more about him in my Additional layers of difficulty were added as we walked
Spotlight interview inside this issue. Martinez aims to provide and ran between positions and worked around barricades.
courses that teach realistic fighting skills, rather than the flat- We learned how to move swiftly up to cover, staying back Martinez gave
one-on-one
range-focused, technical shooting skills found in many other far enough to fully extend the gun. To lean out from behind
advice to each
courses. I recently attended Rogue Methods’ Low-Profile cover, the leading foot is planted, and body weight is shifted student regarding
Carbine class, which takes a unique approach to teaching over that foot like the beginning of a lunge, yielding improved grip, stance, and
defensive carbine skills. stability. Multiple targets were added to the mix, as well as carbine setup at
the start of the
The class began with a segment on a topic Martinez ad- “no shoot” targets, since Martinez emphasized that having class. His own
dresses in every one of his courses: first aid. Each student enough restraint to know when not to shoot is critical. carbine of choice
practiced applying a C-A-T tourniquet to their own limbs I really enjoyed this Low-Profile Carbine class, and it is a Cobalt Kinet-
ics 11.5-inch SBR
and to other students’ limbs. For the latter, we wrapped served as a good reminder about the intricacies of train-
equipped with an
excess strap around the windlass to prevent quick removal — ing for home defense. For more information on upcoming Aimpoint Micro
tourniquets are painful, and victims may try to loosen them, Rogue Methods classes, go to rogue-methods.com. red dot.
leading to preventable fatalities.
Next, Martinez discussed carbine setup. He covered
topics including red dot brightness, cheek weld (bring
the sight to your eye, not vice versa), stock position, grip
(don’t break it when you’re working the selector), and sling
configuration (something you can “swim out” of quickly to
reposition). Speaking of slings, we removed them from our
carbines at this point, since Martinez wanted us to get used
to the feeling of using them in a “grab and go” bedside gun
configuration. We also didn’t wear battle belts or chest rigs
full of mags, since that’s not gear you’re likely to be wearing
in a spur-of-the-moment self-defense incident. We loaded
 Atlanta, GA | June ,"., 202)

Salt Lake City, UT Ft. Worth, TX

October 13-14, 2023 Feb 23-24, 2024

FOR DETAILS ON ALL THREE EVENTS, GO TO

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CONNECT WITH US AT #BLADESHOW
Curriculum that empowers people
Addressing the skills you need so you
A series by Green Beret (Special Forces Sniper) and Tim Kennedy (former top 5 UFC Middleweight).
 Ib i n g e w a t c h i t o n

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to protect and preserve human life.

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AVAILABLE ON
082
ISSUE 57
THELASTPAGE
Extremism Masquerading as Liberation
Review of Rules for Radicals: A Pragmatic Primer for Realistic Radicals By Katie Culpepper

BOOK & AUTHOR

The Premise: Saul Alinsky’s last book, or manual, Rules tions” and “agitate to the point of conflict.” “He does not
Rules for
for Radicals: A Pragmatic Primer for Realistic Radicals, wel- have a fixed truth — truth to him is relative and changing.” Radicals: A
comes readers into revolutionary tactics and guidelines. In his last chapter, “The Way Ahead,” the demographic he Pragmatic
Primer for
This book is designed to assist organizers and activists targets is “America’s white middle class” — previously their Realistic
in reshaping the world. In his first chapter, “The Purpose,” enemy and now an important ally. In this chapter, the tone Radicals
By Saul D. Alinsky
he specifically outlines his main accomplishment: “In this becomes more pressing and urgent, more aggressive — a
PUBLISHER
book we are concerned with how to create mass organi- call to action for the average American to assist in this
Vintage
zations to seize power and give it to the people; to realize revolution — does any of this sound familiar yet?
MSRP
the democratic dream of equality, justice, peace, coopera- Remember, words are vital for revolution. That’s why $12 Paperback (Amazon)
tion, equal and full opportunities for education, full and three of the most important chapters are “A Word About URL
useful employment, health, and the creation of those Words,” “Tactics,” and “The Way Ahead,” which all have www.amazon.com

circumstances in which man can have the chance to live the same eerie forecast of present-day America. “A Word PAGES
224
by values that give meaning to life.” About Words” sounds familiar to our modern conversa-
RATING
This might sound promising, especially when he reminds tion surrounding rhetoric. He reminds readers that words
us of our own American Revolution. However, he soon are powerful and can be molded into new meanings for
THRIVE
explains, “today revolution has become synonymous with revolutionary causes. “Tactics” is also an unsettling look SURVIVE
communism while capitalism is synonymous with status into our present divided situation. He lays out 13 rules that DIE
quo.” Although he claims this is “a revolutionary handbook are worth studying carefully (look them up). “The Way
not cast in a communist or capitalist mold,” he also ex- Ahead” lays out the road ahead from 1971 onward.
presses a strong desire to “use power for a more equitable The Verdict: Rules for Radicals should be read by anyone
distribution of the means of life for all people.” He leads his who wishes to fully understand today’s intensely polar-
readers on a journey into the ethics of revolution, how to ized social and political climate. Although the book is
properly educate future organizers, and most importantly, littered with dense, intellectual literary sources, sifting
the tactics in the fight for change. This is Alinksy’s playbook through Alinsky’s takeaways from each reference makes
to power “for the Have-Nots of the world.” his message crystal clear. It’s important to analyze each
The 411: The controversial book begins with Alinsky dedi- point carefully and to continually reestablish Alinsky’s
cating his work to the first successful radical who “won his message on conflict: “[The organizer] must search out
own kingdom” — Lucifer. This book is a siren song for the controversy and issues, rather than avoid them, for unless
glittering ideology of revolution; a step-by-step guide for there is controversy people are not concerned enough
inciting conflict in communities, organizations, and society to act.”
in order to produce change. Much of Alinsky’s language Make no mistake, this book is designed to
is divisive using words like “us,” “they,” “comrades,” “we,” ignite conflict, division, and revolution. But,
“the other side,” etc. Who are these “other” people he is if read and understood, it levels the playing
referring to throughout his book? Well, he boldly states, “If field by offering insight into the “enemy,” as
we don’t encourage them to form alliances with us, they he so often refers. Alinsky is skilled in the
will move to the right.” He clearly illustrates the manual is art of rhetoric — at times, his words appear
intended for a certain audience, not truly for everyone. sympathetic and trustworthy, but do your
Alinksy divides classes into the Haves, Have-Nots, best to read beyond the seductive veneer.
and the Have-a-Little, Want Mores. He’s interested in the As a tool, this book is helpful in understand-
Have-Nots obtaining power. He begins establishing a plan ing the mentality of the “movement” Alinsky
in which they can be easily agitated if they feel they can promotes. If you read it with the intention of
obtain power over the Haves. Alinksy even says, “An orga- learning about radical ideology, it’ll better
nizer must stir up dissatisfaction and discontent; provide help you prepare for the possible outcome
a channel into which the people angrily pour their frustra- it’s trying to achieve.