The Balance in Bushcraft

There are many different approaches to learning wilderness survival and bushcraft skills. On one hand there is the military approach that focuses on a lot of high end kit that you have on you at all times. At the other end of this continuum is the Hippy approach to survival. The hippies tent to look at the wilderness with respect but can underestimate the ruggedness and how unforgiving Nature can be.
   Anyone who goes out and spends time in the remote areas will find themselves somewhere in the middle of these two bookends. It is important for the beginning bushcraft and outdoor enthusiast to find a comfortable balance between the two.

   No doubt you have heard about the antics of Bear Grylls and his theatrical approach to the survival skills. Putting aside the fact that he stays in hotels and fakes a lot of his survival experiences, Bear does bring a lot of passion and enthusiasm to the skills. Additionally, he inspires countless Boy Scouts in the UK who are seeing a historic surge in enrolment.
   Where do you think Bear stands in the Continuum of Bushcraft? Does he rely on equipment or skills? Does he take unnecessary risks that cause self endangerment?

   Another example is Ray Mears. Ray travels around the world learning from the First Nation tribes how they traditionally survived and what skills worked for them. Ray is a good example of a balanced approach to bushcraft.

   When you look at your own passions for the outdoors and survival where do you spend most of your time? Are you always on the website to the Great Outdoors? Are you pouring over the OSI maps of your next adventure? Do you take time to sit outside a bit each day to learn how nature can move around you?

   Here at the Kerry Bushcraft School we encourage you to find your own spot in the Continuum of Bushcraft. There is definitely a time for the latest and greatest gadget and toys. We also would suggest honing your survival skills without the use of tools. What happens if you find yourself lost without your kit or bergen?

   The balance in Bushcraft means that you need to practise your survival skills enough to be able to build a fire in the rain, find and make a shelter in treeless areas, and to know where potable water is anywhere in Ireland. All of these skills are something that is within you and cannot be taken away or lost.
   Focus on the skills that you are passionate about. They are the ones that will keep you going when you are cold, wet, tired and hungry.