Sticks are the original multi-tool. From use as a simple digging tool to use as a defensive weapon in the form of clubs, arrows or spears, sticks have great versatility in a wide variety of situations. They can be used to build a shelter, make a litter to carry an injured person, as fuel for a fire or to fashion a raft to make a river crossing. You just can't beat a good stick.
Sticks can be modified or used for numerous items that are very useful in almost any situation you may encounter. One of the easiest and simplest tools that can be made from a stick is a spear. Simply attach a sharp object to one end and you have an improvised tool that can be used for defensive or hunting purposes.
They can also be decorated to create a very unique item that will be distinct from other sticks that may be out there. Using a strip of leather and adding a few beads, a couple of feathers and a tassel made from elk hair and you have a unique piece of gear for your survival.
Got stick?
Staying above the water line!
Riverwalker
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12 comments:
Thanks so much for all the tips you bring to us. I have to say that I really love the otter!
...hey RW,quick question,what did ya use for the spear tip..?
Throwing knives might make a decent spear head, they are designed to be thrown at targets by design, so their steel is better for that.
I think the Cold Steel Bushman was one of the early 'just haft it' models. I keep a paracord lanyard with a brass screw eye for attaching it to a pole. Not for a spear, but it makes a dandy pole cutter, for those mesquite limbs that are waaaay up there out of reach of loppers.
I forgot where it was I read it, but someone had mentioned that a good use for keys that no longer work (or you forgot what they fit) make decent projectile points when filed down. Softish metal, so it doesn't take a lot - good way to gain free 'arrowheads'.
Great post Riverwalker - have a good weekend.
To; sel
Otters are kinda cute...thought a different pic would be a nice change.
I don't change the format of my blog very much except to put up a different pic every once in a while.
Thanks sel.
RW
To: Ken
Got the spear tip courtesy of Mrs. RW. She was at a garage sale and found one of those "fantasy" blades with the plastic skull on it for only $2. The plastic was cracked (ceramic?) but the blade was decent enough. Mrs. RW knows that I'm always looking for broken stuff that can be used for my little DIY projects.
Anyway, took the "crap" off and had a decent looking spear point blade (length 5.5 inches) with an inch and half tang on it. Put a slot in my stick, added the spear point and secured it with a couple of rivet pins through holes in the blade tang and then wrapped it with cord. Now I have a spear with a 4" point on it.
Total length is approximately 5'6" and is fairly sturdy with the rivets holding the spear point. I still have a short throwing spear that was made using an old knife blade.
Only one problem now. Lil' RW is going to want one also...just not sure if a big spear in the hands of a six year old is a good idea...
It's a lot more useful than it was in its previous condition.
Thanks Ken.
RW
BTW, works pretty good when I tried it out..
To: anonymous 12:28
Got a couple of throwing knifes myself and almost started to use one to make something similar to an assegai.
Decided to wait a bit and see what turned up during my treasure hunting at garage sales first.
The Cold Steel spears are nice and very good quality but somewhat pricey.
Thanks anon.
RW
(in my best Monty Python accent),What if they attack you with a banana??
To: anonymous 5:24
Use your "attack monkey"!
RW
Cool as always!
China
III
To: chinasyndrome
Have to stay cool...especially when it's this hot.
Thanks China III.
It's always appropriate to put a little distance between you and your prey... or attacker!
To: milleniumfly
Distance is a good thing in most cases.
Thanks.
RW
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