The Ultimate Survival, Bushcraft, and Knife Guide: Part 2 – Bushcraft Tools and Gear: Reddit Answered

Welcome to Part 2 of Heinnie Haynes’ ultimate guide to survival, bushcraft, and outdoor essentials. In this instalment, we’re turning our attention to bushcraft tools and gear—the indispensable items that make thriving in the wilderness not only possible but efficient and enjoyable.

As experts in outdoor tools and survival equipment, we’ve compiled answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about bushcraft kits on Reddit and examined how to choose the right tools for the job.

From axes to fire starters, we’ll explore the essentials you need to master bushcraft and make the wild your home away from home.

What Are the Must-Have Tools for a Bushcraft Kit?

A well-rounded bushcraft kit is built around versatility and reliability. At its heart, you’ll need a survival knife capable of handling tasks like carving and food preparation.

A robust axe or hatchet is indispensable for chopping wood, while a folding saw makes cutting through branches and logs far easier. Fire-starting tools should always be included, ensuring you can spark a flame even in adverse conditions.

Don’t forget essentials like paracord for creating shelters, a water filtration system to purify drinking water, and a compact cooking kit for preparing meals. Add a multi-tool for smaller tasks, waterproof matches, and a durable shelter solution, and you’ve got the foundation of a reliable bushcraft kit.

How Do I Select the Right Axe or Hatchet for Bushcraft?

Balance and durability are key when choosing an axe or hatchet. Aim for a weight of 500g to 1kg, as this provides enough heft for effective chopping without becoming cumbersome. A handle length of 35 to 40cm offers excellent control, while a high-carbon steel head ensures durability and ease of sharpening.

For the handle, traditional materials like hickory or ash wood are prized for their shock absorption and natural flexibility. If you prefer modern alternatives, look for options with synthetic handles made from fibreglass-reinforced materials for added resilience. Brands like HultaforsBeavercraft and Cold Steel deliver superb craftsmanship and performance and are trusted by bushcrafters worldwide.

What Are the Best Materials for Bushcraft Tool Handles?

Ash wood is another excellent option, offering flexibility and resistance to impact while remaining lightweight.

For hand tools such as knives, synthetic materials such as G10 and Micarta combine durability with a non-slip grip, making them ideal for demanding environments.

How Can I Start a Fire Without Modern Tools?

Fire is one of the most essential elements of survival, and bushcraft techniques allow you to create it without modern conveniences.

Friction methods like the hand drill, bow drill, and fire plough generate heat and spark through consistent effort. Flint and steel are another timeless option, often paired with char cloth or dry tinder to catch the spark.

Preparation is key—gather fine, dry tinder, such as grass or bark shavings, and gradually build your fire using small twigs before adding larger pieces of wood. Practising these techniques in advance ensures you’re ready when it matters most.

What Are the Most Effective Methods for Building a Shelter in the Wilderness?

Shelter construction starts with choosing the right location. Look for areas that offer natural wind protection, are free from flooding risks, and provide access to materials like branches and leaves. Common bushcraft shelter types include:

• Lean-to shelters, which are quick to build and ideal for wind protection.
• A-frame shelters, which offer better rainproofing and insulation.
• Debris huts, which provide excellent warmth in colder conditions.

Gather materials like long branches for structure and smaller ones for roofing, then insulate with leaves, moss, or pine needles. Waterproof your shelter with additional layers of foliage or a tarp to ensure it stands up to the elements.

How Do I Identify and Utilise Natural Resources for Bushcraft?

Bushcraft is all about using what the environment provides. To forage successfully, learn to identify edible plants, which vary by region and season.

Look for natural materials like tree bark, plant fibres, and roots to create cordage and seek out materials like moss, clay, or stones for shelter and insulation.

Safety is critical when foraging for food—always use multiple sources of confirmation before consuming plants, and avoid anything you’re unsure of. Building an understanding of the local ecosystem is vital for long-term success.

What Are the Best Methods for Purifying Water in a Survival Situation?

Water purification is non-negotiable in survival scenarios. Boiling, which kills bacteria and viruses, is the simplest and most reliable method. Other effective options include chemical treatments, UV light purifiers, and portable water filtration systems like the LifeStraw.

If you don’t have access to these tools, you can improvise with natural filtration methods, such as using a makeshift filter made from sand, charcoal, and cloth. Always prioritise water safety, as drinking contaminated water can lead to severe illness.

How Can I Craft Cordage Using Natural Materials?

Natural cordage is an invaluable resource in bushcraft. Materials like inner tree bark, plant fibres, nettles, or even animal sinew can be twisted into strong ropes or strings.

To create cordage, begin by stripping and softening the fibres, then twist them tightly to form strands. Combine multiple strands for additional strength, splicing as needed for longer sections.

What Knots Should Every Bushcrafter Know?

Mastering a few essential knots is crucial for bushcraft and survival. The bowline is ideal for creating secure loops, while the taut-line hitch allows for adjustable tension in ropes.

The clove hitch and square knot are indispensable for tying and securing loads, and the figure-eight knot provides a strong and simple stopper. For joining ropes, the sheet bend and Prusik knot are reliable choices.

How Can I Navigate Using Natural Indicators?

Even without a compass, nature provides numerous tools for navigation. During the day, the sun’s position can help orient you, while at night, the North Star offers a reliable point of reference.

Observing moss growth, which typically favours the shaded, north-facing side of trees in the northern hemisphere, can also provide clues.

Techniques like the shadow stick method and tracking natural landmarks further enhance your ability to navigate.

A well-equipped bushcraft kit is more than just a collection of tools—it’s your ticket to independence and confidence in the wilderness. From a trusted survival knife to essential fire-starting techniques, the tools and skills you bring into the wild determine your ability to thrive.

Stay tuned for Part 3 of this series, where we’ll dive into the must-have survival gear that every adventurer should carry. In the meantime, explore our range of premium bushcraft tools and gear, trusted by outdoorsmen and survivalists across the UK. With Heinnie Haynes, you’re always prepared for the adventure ahead.

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