Thursday, May 26, 2005
OUTDOORS, ETC
OUTDOORS, ETC: "Jellyfish are free floating dome-shaped creatures with long tentacles. The tentacles are two to four feet in length. Most jellyfish stings are accidental, and occur when swimmers and surfers swim into the dangling stinging tentacles, called nematocysts, "
OUTDOORS, ETC
OUTDOORS, ETC: "Poison Ivy or Poison Oak is the most common cause of allergic skin reactions."
OUTDOORS, ETC
OUTDOORS, ETC: "I have had my fair share of encounters with tornadoes. Since the creation of Survive Outdoors, I have had numerous questions asked of me regarding tornado safety. As a child, I was taught to open windows to equalize the pressure in the event of a tornado. This is of a myth. If a tornado is that close, whether or not a window is open will make no difference."
TORNADO SAFETY
Growing up in southern Illinois, I have had my fair share of encounters with tornadoes. Since the creation of Survive Outdoors, I have had numerous questions asked of me regarding tornado safety. As a child, I was taught to open windows to equalize the pressure in the event of a tornado. This is of a myth. If a tornado is that close, whether or not a window is open will make no difference.
What is important is finding a predetermined location for your family in advance of a storm, preferably surrounded by concrete, such as a basement. It is helpful to have 3-4 four mattresses to lie on top of yourselves, as flying debris causes many injuries. I also recommend a radio. There are relatively inexpensive radios that are hand charged and generated by turning a crank. These are excellent, as many of us, including myself, forget to exchange the batteries or have battery replacements. Fresh water in jugs as well as canned goods are essential to have on hand. If you only have canned goods, it is a good idea to have a can opener in the same container. Large plastic pans with sealable lids in which to place your perishables as well as your emergency equipment, is helpful. You can label the outside with a cross with pieces of red tape. Some basic medication, bandages and medical tape are important for taking care of basic wounds.
Next, let’s not forget about our pets. They should be in the same area as you, tethered so they don’t run. The majority of tornadoes frequently move from a southwesterly to a northeasterly direction. Finding a position in a southeastern corner of the home or basement would be ideal. Less debris is going to be blown your way. Do not stay in mobile homes. These are tornado magnets, even if tied down, and a tornado can definitely take you for a good tumble in a mobile home, causing severe injury. If camping outdoors, find a low area in which to lie. It is not uncommon for tornadoes to skip over these areas. Try to stay away from large trees to avoid lightning strikes and trees falling down on you.
In recapping, some basic food and water is a must. A radio is very beneficial, but not essential. Mattresses are essential and important to protect you from falling debris. A small basic medical kit is essential. Please review Survive Outdoors’ medical kit for further details. If you have pets, bring them to your predetermined area in your home and tether them with leashes.
After a tornado has passed, be cautious! Should there be any damage to your home, be aware of potential gas leaks. Do not strike a match or use a lighter. Leave the home immediately if there is any odor of gas. Other dangers include the debris, specifically glass and nails that may puncture the skin, especially the feet. If this occurs, be aware of your Tetanus status and update, if necessary. Following storms, I have treated many individuals with splinters and fractures from trimming trees or removing fallen branches, as well as imbedded glass shards, because appropriate care was not taken.
What is important is finding a predetermined location for your family in advance of a storm, preferably surrounded by concrete, such as a basement. It is helpful to have 3-4 four mattresses to lie on top of yourselves, as flying debris causes many injuries. I also recommend a radio. There are relatively inexpensive radios that are hand charged and generated by turning a crank. These are excellent, as many of us, including myself, forget to exchange the batteries or have battery replacements. Fresh water in jugs as well as canned goods are essential to have on hand. If you only have canned goods, it is a good idea to have a can opener in the same container. Large plastic pans with sealable lids in which to place your perishables as well as your emergency equipment, is helpful. You can label the outside with a cross with pieces of red tape. Some basic medication, bandages and medical tape are important for taking care of basic wounds.
Next, let’s not forget about our pets. They should be in the same area as you, tethered so they don’t run. The majority of tornadoes frequently move from a southwesterly to a northeasterly direction. Finding a position in a southeastern corner of the home or basement would be ideal. Less debris is going to be blown your way. Do not stay in mobile homes. These are tornado magnets, even if tied down, and a tornado can definitely take you for a good tumble in a mobile home, causing severe injury. If camping outdoors, find a low area in which to lie. It is not uncommon for tornadoes to skip over these areas. Try to stay away from large trees to avoid lightning strikes and trees falling down on you.
In recapping, some basic food and water is a must. A radio is very beneficial, but not essential. Mattresses are essential and important to protect you from falling debris. A small basic medical kit is essential. Please review Survive Outdoors’ medical kit for further details. If you have pets, bring them to your predetermined area in your home and tether them with leashes.
After a tornado has passed, be cautious! Should there be any damage to your home, be aware of potential gas leaks. Do not strike a match or use a lighter. Leave the home immediately if there is any odor of gas. Other dangers include the debris, specifically glass and nails that may puncture the skin, especially the feet. If this occurs, be aware of your Tetanus status and update, if necessary. Following storms, I have treated many individuals with splinters and fractures from trimming trees or removing fallen branches, as well as imbedded glass shards, because appropriate care was not taken.
POISON IVY INFORMATION
Poison Ivy or Poison Oak is the most common cause of allergic skin reactions. Around 50% of the adult population is clinically sensitive to these plants.
The oil or resin on the leaves, stem and root of this plant is the culprit. The allergic principle is Uroshiol. It is colorless, or may have a slight yellow tinge. In a fire, Uroshiol is carried in smoke and can be carried downwind. The oil can also be on the coats of animals and can be transmitted to humans this way also.
The amount of Uroshiol in the plant is equally present year round.
The weeds do not grow in Alaska or Hawaii, and cannot survive above 4,000 feet. Generally, Poison Ivy grows east of the Rockies and Poison Oak west of the Rockies, and Poison Sumac is usually found in the southeastern United States. Once the oil is on the skin, a person has around 1-4 hours to wash it off. This rash usually starts within 2-6 hours after exposure, depending on sensitivity.
Auerbach, Paul S., Wilderness Medicine,Mosby, 2001: Pages 1092-1100.
The oil or resin on the leaves, stem and root of this plant is the culprit. The allergic principle is Uroshiol. It is colorless, or may have a slight yellow tinge. In a fire, Uroshiol is carried in smoke and can be carried downwind. The oil can also be on the coats of animals and can be transmitted to humans this way also.
The amount of Uroshiol in the plant is equally present year round.
The weeds do not grow in Alaska or Hawaii, and cannot survive above 4,000 feet. Generally, Poison Ivy grows east of the Rockies and Poison Oak west of the Rockies, and Poison Sumac is usually found in the southeastern United States. Once the oil is on the skin, a person has around 1-4 hours to wash it off. This rash usually starts within 2-6 hours after exposure, depending on sensitivity.
Auerbach, Paul S., Wilderness Medicine,Mosby, 2001: Pages 1092-1100.
TRIP PLANNING
Trip planning should be geared to how long you are going to be gone and where you are going. It is very important to research the specific areas you are going, specifically if you are leaving abroad. You need adequate supplies of your personal medication you are taking as well as refills. Check with your health care provider so that you can get refills and carry them with you. Many medications in foreign countries are substandard and you probably want to get your medication from where you are.
A Medical KitSurvive Outdoors has repeatedly stressed a good travelers medical kit. A basic kit with wound dressings, bandages antibiotic ointment, tapes and scissors. They have excellent over the counter supplies for minor lacerations from new skin to steri-strips that are helpful. Some basic over the counter medicines are Imodium AD, Benadryl, antihistamines that will make your life much more comfortable. If you have severe allergies to bee stings, as well as food allergies or scorpion stings, an Epi pen is invaluable to have with you. Pain medications such as over the counter Tylenol and Ibuprofen are very helpful. In severe pain, you can take two Advil and two Tylenol at the same time. This is very safe and an effective pain relievers. Rolaids, Mylanta and Tums are good over the counter antacids that are helpful in relieving stomach upset. If one is concerned about traveler’s diarrhea, Pepto Bismol as well as antibiotics are good to take with you and will be very helpful in travelers diarrhea. It is important to note that you do not want to take your antibiotics with the Pepto Bismol and you want at least a two to three hour span because the antibiotic will have a decreased absorption rate with the Pepto Bismol. Over the counter topical steroid creams are helpful for allergic dermatitis and rashes. Water filtration systems are excellent. Make sure you have one that will take care of viruses. There are no viruses in the water in North America or Canada, however, there are viruses in foreign countries. Some other basics that are helpful such as skin protection is to use sunscreens, a very good hat to avoid sun to the ears and back of the neck, insect repellents with DEET. We do not recommend anything with more than 30-35% DEET. Good over the counter permethrin solutions are excellent to put on clothes to repel tick and mosquitoes. Flashlights are necessary. The LED flashlights are excellent and last a long time, where you will not have to change the batteries. Some LED flashlights will burn for 30 consecutive days on one round of batteries. Extra fuel sources are helpful, as well as candles and rope. A parachute rope is a superb source of strong rope. You can get these at the Army Navy Surplus Store. The tensile strength is approximately 550 pounds. Toiletries are often forgotten, such as toilet paper. If you are flying abroad and going out of the country, obviously travel documents are very important. Please see the section on foreign travel on Survive Outdoors.
Passports - Make a copy of your passport and keep a copy in the bottom of your backpack or one in a safe place. Passports are often stolen. It is nice to have a copy, although it will not be helpful in going place to place. At least you can show that you had it. For more information, please go to www.travel.state.gov/passport_services.html. This provides help in applying for passports. Extra photographs are very helpful. God forbid someone is lost or kidnapped. It is good to have a photograph of everyone on your trip. Personal health records, as well as any type of emergency bracelet is helpful. Travel health insurance is very important to have and in extremely cheap, especially if you are going camping or doing any outdoor hiking in the west or in the Rockies. They have rescue insurance also, which is extremely minimal. To fly someone out of the Rockies is extremely expensive and the medical care will be astronomical. With this type of rescue or travel insurance, the small or minimal cost is well worth it. Do not forget your telephone number of your doctor in the United States or wherever you are traveling. Traveler’s checks, credit cards, and cash is important. Always keep some amount of cash in your sock or some other safe hidden place for emergencies. These are only a few, but not all of trip planning.
We strongly advise the International Travel Health Guide by Stuart Rose, MD. This is an excellent guide and has helped as a reference for the above topic. It is a valuable text that is well worth the purchase.
A Medical KitSurvive Outdoors has repeatedly stressed a good travelers medical kit. A basic kit with wound dressings, bandages antibiotic ointment, tapes and scissors. They have excellent over the counter supplies for minor lacerations from new skin to steri-strips that are helpful. Some basic over the counter medicines are Imodium AD, Benadryl, antihistamines that will make your life much more comfortable. If you have severe allergies to bee stings, as well as food allergies or scorpion stings, an Epi pen is invaluable to have with you. Pain medications such as over the counter Tylenol and Ibuprofen are very helpful. In severe pain, you can take two Advil and two Tylenol at the same time. This is very safe and an effective pain relievers. Rolaids, Mylanta and Tums are good over the counter antacids that are helpful in relieving stomach upset. If one is concerned about traveler’s diarrhea, Pepto Bismol as well as antibiotics are good to take with you and will be very helpful in travelers diarrhea. It is important to note that you do not want to take your antibiotics with the Pepto Bismol and you want at least a two to three hour span because the antibiotic will have a decreased absorption rate with the Pepto Bismol. Over the counter topical steroid creams are helpful for allergic dermatitis and rashes. Water filtration systems are excellent. Make sure you have one that will take care of viruses. There are no viruses in the water in North America or Canada, however, there are viruses in foreign countries. Some other basics that are helpful such as skin protection is to use sunscreens, a very good hat to avoid sun to the ears and back of the neck, insect repellents with DEET. We do not recommend anything with more than 30-35% DEET. Good over the counter permethrin solutions are excellent to put on clothes to repel tick and mosquitoes. Flashlights are necessary. The LED flashlights are excellent and last a long time, where you will not have to change the batteries. Some LED flashlights will burn for 30 consecutive days on one round of batteries. Extra fuel sources are helpful, as well as candles and rope. A parachute rope is a superb source of strong rope. You can get these at the Army Navy Surplus Store. The tensile strength is approximately 550 pounds. Toiletries are often forgotten, such as toilet paper. If you are flying abroad and going out of the country, obviously travel documents are very important. Please see the section on foreign travel on Survive Outdoors.
Passports - Make a copy of your passport and keep a copy in the bottom of your backpack or one in a safe place. Passports are often stolen. It is nice to have a copy, although it will not be helpful in going place to place. At least you can show that you had it. For more information, please go to www.travel.state.gov/passport_services.html. This provides help in applying for passports. Extra photographs are very helpful. God forbid someone is lost or kidnapped. It is good to have a photograph of everyone on your trip. Personal health records, as well as any type of emergency bracelet is helpful. Travel health insurance is very important to have and in extremely cheap, especially if you are going camping or doing any outdoor hiking in the west or in the Rockies. They have rescue insurance also, which is extremely minimal. To fly someone out of the Rockies is extremely expensive and the medical care will be astronomical. With this type of rescue or travel insurance, the small or minimal cost is well worth it. Do not forget your telephone number of your doctor in the United States or wherever you are traveling. Traveler’s checks, credit cards, and cash is important. Always keep some amount of cash in your sock or some other safe hidden place for emergencies. These are only a few, but not all of trip planning.
We strongly advise the International Travel Health Guide by Stuart Rose, MD. This is an excellent guide and has helped as a reference for the above topic. It is a valuable text that is well worth the purchase.
JELLYFISH STINGS
Jellyfish are free floating dome-shaped creatures with long tentacles. The tentacles are two to four feet in length. Most jellyfish stings are accidental, and occur when swimmers and surfers swim into the dangling stinging tentacles, called nematocysts, which are small venom glands that contain small, sharp tubes that release the venom. Typical stings appear in linear lines or lines that swirl along the arms or legs, which makes sense given the fact that the tentacles float in the water.
The local reaction is intense redness to the area and raised bumps which can itch, but usually burn and hurt. In severe allergic reactions, swollen lymph nodes may occur. However, this is somewhat rare. Putting fresh water on affected areas is not advised, as this will increase the burning sensation caused by the venom. The area should be rinsed with salt water or vinegar, which deactivates the toxin. It is true that there is some benefit in urinating on the area, because the difference in pH decreases the burning. Although obviously not practical, in extreme situations where more conventional methods are not available, this may help. Over-the-counter pain medications can be helpful to decrease pain. Two Ibuprofen and two Acetaminophen at the same time can help decrease the pain. This can be taken every 8 hours. Stings rarely result in scarring, and individuals generally recover quite well. Reactions to Portuguese Man-of-War stings are far more severe, and will be discussed in the section on Man-of-War stings.
Works Cited Auerbach; Invenomations From Jellyfish or Related Species
Healthcare Provider - Medical TreatmentJellyfish stings are usually very benign as opposed to the box jellyfish, where close observation and monitoring is important. Topical Benadryl cream, topic hydrocortisone creams can be affective in relieving pain as well as itching. Many individuals do not even seek out treatment.
The local reaction is intense redness to the area and raised bumps which can itch, but usually burn and hurt. In severe allergic reactions, swollen lymph nodes may occur. However, this is somewhat rare. Putting fresh water on affected areas is not advised, as this will increase the burning sensation caused by the venom. The area should be rinsed with salt water or vinegar, which deactivates the toxin. It is true that there is some benefit in urinating on the area, because the difference in pH decreases the burning. Although obviously not practical, in extreme situations where more conventional methods are not available, this may help. Over-the-counter pain medications can be helpful to decrease pain. Two Ibuprofen and two Acetaminophen at the same time can help decrease the pain. This can be taken every 8 hours. Stings rarely result in scarring, and individuals generally recover quite well. Reactions to Portuguese Man-of-War stings are far more severe, and will be discussed in the section on Man-of-War stings.
Works Cited Auerbach; Invenomations From Jellyfish or Related Species
Healthcare Provider - Medical TreatmentJellyfish stings are usually very benign as opposed to the box jellyfish, where close observation and monitoring is important. Topical Benadryl cream, topic hydrocortisone creams can be affective in relieving pain as well as itching. Many individuals do not even seek out treatment.
Tuesday, May 24, 2005
OUTDOORS, ETC
OUTDOORS, ETC: "Check the weather before leaving home. You don't want a storm to catch you off guard."
OUTDOORS, ETC
OUTDOORS, ETC: "Do not wear cotton clothing; Cotton is bad when it gets wet. Instead wear clothing made of various synthetic materials. Several light, loose fitting clothing layers are more effective than one heavy article of clothing. A time-tested layering system consists of a synthetic shirt, pile/fleece jacket, and wind/rain shell (ideally GoreTex).
An uncovered head accounts for the majority of body heat loss -- always bring a hat."
An uncovered head accounts for the majority of body heat loss -- always bring a hat."
HIKING TIPS
Tips on Clothing For hiking
Do not wear cotton clothing; Cotton is bad when it gets wet. Instead wear clothing made of various synthetic materials. Several light, loose fitting clothing layers are more effective than one heavy article of clothing. A time-tested layering system consists of a synthetic shirt, pile/fleece jacket, and wind/rain shell (ideally GoreTex).
An uncovered head accounts for the majority of body heat loss -- always bring a hat.
To save energy and move faster on snow-free terrain, consider wearing trail running or hiking shoes (instead of hiking boots). Always take rain gear into mountains.----------------------------------------
Day hiking gear-
Day pack or fanny packWater or drink (2 liters per person is recommended) Snacks or candybarsGood shoes or boots Good socks, or two pair of socksHat Bandana Clothing for the season Map and compass Watch Camera & FilmFirst aid supplies (for a day hike, doesn't have to be a large one)Insect repellent
------------------------------------------
Check the weather before leaving home. You don't want a storm to catch you off guard.
Stretch before setting off, you will be using muscles that are not taxed in the city.
Pack out your garbage, keep the area clean.
Do not wear cotton clothing; Cotton is bad when it gets wet. Instead wear clothing made of various synthetic materials. Several light, loose fitting clothing layers are more effective than one heavy article of clothing. A time-tested layering system consists of a synthetic shirt, pile/fleece jacket, and wind/rain shell (ideally GoreTex).
An uncovered head accounts for the majority of body heat loss -- always bring a hat.
To save energy and move faster on snow-free terrain, consider wearing trail running or hiking shoes (instead of hiking boots). Always take rain gear into mountains.----------------------------------------
Day hiking gear-
Day pack or fanny packWater or drink (2 liters per person is recommended) Snacks or candybarsGood shoes or boots Good socks, or two pair of socksHat Bandana Clothing for the season Map and compass Watch Camera & FilmFirst aid supplies (for a day hike, doesn't have to be a large one)Insect repellent
------------------------------------------
Check the weather before leaving home. You don't want a storm to catch you off guard.
Stretch before setting off, you will be using muscles that are not taxed in the city.
Pack out your garbage, keep the area clean.
Monday, May 16, 2005
COUNTRY LIVING: CANNING MEAT
COUNTRY LIVING: CANNING MEAT: "Here on the farm we have been canning meat for many years. We raise our own beef, pork and poultry and often have excess - that is one reason to can it. Another reason is that we find it convenient to have cooked meat in the jar that can quickly be used to make some of our favorite meals."
Friday, May 13, 2005
OUTDOORS, ETC
OUTDOORS, ETC: "'Breaking The Hide'
There are a couple of ways to 'break' the hide. The first is while it is in the frame or stretched between two trees or something, you take a tool that looks like a canoe paddle and use it to push on the hide."
There are a couple of ways to 'break' the hide. The first is while it is in the frame or stretched between two trees or something, you take a tool that looks like a canoe paddle and use it to push on the hide."
OUTDOORS, ETC
OUTDOORS, ETC: "Technically speaking, the primitive method of preparing leather for clothing which we will be discussing here isn't really tanning. "
ANCIENT TANNING METHODS
NOTE: What follows is a general outline of what is involved in brain tanning hides. There are many different "formula's" or directions for tanning out there. Some are simpler and some more involved.
Technically speaking, the primitive method of preparing leather for clothing which we will be discussing here isn't really tanning. What one is doing is stretching and working the hide into a usable, stable state. Preservation is asssisted by a smoking process which colors the hide as well.
The hide should be fresh when you begin this process. Old hides or hides that have begun to decompose are not desirable. Don't use them. The first thing you need to do is to soak the hide in clean water for a couple of days. Change the water daily and make sure the hide remains completely submerged during the entire soaking process. Rocks are often used to keep the hide weighted down under the water. After a couple days, check the hide and see if the hair is ready to "slip." If you can remove the hair you are ready for the fleshing step. If it doesn't slip you may have to sprinkle wood ashes onto the hide, rub them in, and roll it up with the fur side in. After a day or so test the hide to see if the ashes have done their work and then rinse the hide in cool, clean water. The ashes make a lye which loosen the hair. If you are doing a hide from a deer you shouldn't have to worry about using ashes-two or three days of soaking in the water should do it. The only thing that would make you wait more than three days is if it's real cold outside. Then it could take a few days longer.
Fleshing The Hide
The water is wrung out of the hide and it is put on a fleshing beam. This is a debarked log that is buried into the ground so that it sticks out at an angle that puts the end of it about waist high. Then you scrape every bit of fat, flesh, and hair of the hide. It takes a lot of elbow grease. You are not only removing stuff, but also evening out the thickness of it. You're trying to make things as uniform as you can. Rinse the hide thoroughly in cold water and wring it out. Now lace the hide to a large frame and stretch it tight.
And Now..The Brain In "Brain Tanning"
Mix the brains from the animal into warm water and mash them up into a paste. If you don't have enough brains to make enough paste for your hide you can add liver paste or get some cow brains. Rub the brain mixture into the stretched hide until it is thoroughly saturated and soaked in. Remove the skin from the frame and soak it in water again and then wring it out. Stretch it on the frame again and now the real work begins.
"Breaking The Hide"
There are a couple of ways to "break' the hide. The first is while it is in the frame or stretched between two trees or something, you take a tool that looks like a canoe paddle and use it to push on the hide. You apply pressure inward and push and pull the paddle across every part of the hide. When you do this it breaks down part of the cell structure and leaves the hide soft and supple. Rinse the hide and repeat this step several times before going to the final step of smoking the hide.
The hide should be fresh when you begin this process. Old hides or hides that have begun to decompose are not desirable. Don't use them. The first thing you need to do is to soak the hide in clean water for a couple of days. Change the water daily and make sure the hide remains completely submerged during the entire soaking process. Rocks are often used to keep the hide weighted down under the water. After a couple days, check the hide and see if the hair is ready to "slip." If you can remove the hair you are ready for the fleshing step. If it doesn't slip you may have to sprinkle wood ashes onto the hide, rub them in, and roll it up with the fur side in. After a day or so test the hide to see if the ashes have done their work and then rinse the hide in cool, clean water. The ashes make a lye which loosen the hair. If you are doing a hide from a deer you shouldn't have to worry about using ashes-two or three days of soaking in the water should do it. The only thing that would make you wait more than three days is if it's real cold outside. Then it could take a few days longer.
Fleshing The Hide
The water is wrung out of the hide and it is put on a fleshing beam. This is a debarked log that is buried into the ground so that it sticks out at an angle that puts the end of it about waist high. Then you scrape every bit of fat, flesh, and hair of the hide. It takes a lot of elbow grease. You are not only removing stuff, but also evening out the thickness of it. You're trying to make things as uniform as you can. Rinse the hide thoroughly in cold water and wring it out. Now lace the hide to a large frame and stretch it tight.
And Now..The Brain In "Brain Tanning"
Mix the brains from the animal into warm water and mash them up into a paste. If you don't have enough brains to make enough paste for your hide you can add liver paste or get some cow brains. Rub the brain mixture into the stretched hide until it is thoroughly saturated and soaked in. Remove the skin from the frame and soak it in water again and then wring it out. Stretch it on the frame again and now the real work begins.
"Breaking The Hide"
There are a couple of ways to "break' the hide. The first is while it is in the frame or stretched between two trees or something, you take a tool that looks like a canoe paddle and use it to push on the hide. You apply pressure inward and push and pull the paddle across every part of the hide. When you do this it breaks down part of the cell structure and leaves the hide soft and supple. Rinse the hide and repeat this step several times before going to the final step of smoking the hide.
Monday, May 09, 2005
KNIFE CARE TIPS
All of the knives need proper care if you want them to perform to their full potential.
Modern knife steel is very high quality material, but all metal will corrode through time. Occasionally oil the joints and springs of a pocket knife with a drop or two of oil. This will assure easier opening and closing and will prevent rust and lessen wear. Wipe the blades now and then with an oil-moistened cloth to prevent rust- especially if you live in a damp climate or close to the ocean. If your blade should get wet, dry it thoroughly. If your knife comes into contact with salt water or any substance you are not certain about, you should rinse it immediately with tap water, dry it and apply a light coat of oil.
Do not store knives in their sheaths. The leather collects moisture and creates pits on the blade.
Check the locking notch of lockbacks regularly to ensure that it will work properly. Keep all sand and grit out of the knife. Keep the mechanisms clean. Remember to never rely on a folding knife to be permanently locked in position.
Do not use the cutting blade as a can opener, chisel, pry bar, screwdriver or for any heavy work for which your knife was not designed. Also, don't use the back of your knife as a hammer. It may break the springs, handles or pin.
Handles made of wood can be occasionally rubbed with furniture polish or oil. Brass can be polished with household brass polish.
Remember to keep your knife sharpened -- a dull blade can be more dangerous than a properly maintained one.
Thursday, May 05, 2005
FIELD DRESSING TURKEY
If you’re a turkey hunter, you’re used to making decisions. And, after choosing the right turkey loads, camouflage, decoys and calls before entering the spring woods, it’s a relief when the final decision of the hunt is how to care for and cook your bird.
Cleaning your turkey is the first step, and regardless of whether you plan to skin, pluck or breast out and cut up your bird, doing it properly is both quick and easy. Just follow these simple steps.
1. If you don’t plan to cook your bird whole, start by laying the turkey on it’s back. Remove just enough breast feathers so as to expose the skin.
2. To remove the breast filets, pull or cut the skin back from the breast. Make cuts along each side of the breastbone as well as on the inside of both wings or the clavicle. To save the wings, peel the skin back and remove the wings from the cavity by cutting through the joint.
3. Find the breastbone and make an incision down each side of the breastbone to loosen the breast filet from the bone. Work from the rear of the breast forward, fileting off the breast by pulling the filet and using the knife as needed. Repeat this for the other side of the breast.
4. To remove the thigh and leg, cut through the thigh muscle where it attaches to the back. Then grab the thigh or leg and pull up until you can feel the joint pop loose. Keep cutting through the thigh until it comes free from the turkey’s body.
Plucking vs. Skinning
Considered the traditional style of cleaning a wild turkey, plucking is a perfect way to prepare your bird to be roasted, smoked or whole deep-fried. Before you remove the entrails or field dress the turkey pluck the turkey’s feathers to help keep the moisture in the turkey while cooking it whole. Remove the feathers after dipping the bird in hot water. Some people use boiling water but it has been said that 140-degree water is optimal for plucking a bird. Plucking does take time and produces more of a mess than does skinning; however, the taste of deep-fried or roasted turkey skin is worth the effort.
Many of today’s turkey hunters prefer skinning to plucking. Skinning a turkey allows you to cook the bird by frying or grilling the pieces of meat. You can skin and fillet the turkey breasts, and slice as much meat from the legs and wings as necessary. Make a cut just along one side of the breastbone. Then, it’s just a matter of working the skin off the breast halves, down the back and over each of the legs. In some states it’s illegal to only fillet the breast out, leaving the rest of the carcass behind. Always check your state’s hunt regulations, and make sure your turkey is properly tagged for transportation.
Field Dressing
In hot weather hunting conditions, field dressing your bird is a good idea before you clean it for the table. If you decide to field dress your bird, start by placing the turkey on its back. Find the bottom of the breast plate and insert your knife, making a cut to the anal vent. Remove the entrails from this opening and then reach into the cavity to sever the windpipe, heart and lungs. Cool the cavity by placing ice inside the chest.
Cleaning your turkey is the first step, and regardless of whether you plan to skin, pluck or breast out and cut up your bird, doing it properly is both quick and easy. Just follow these simple steps.
1. If you don’t plan to cook your bird whole, start by laying the turkey on it’s back. Remove just enough breast feathers so as to expose the skin.
2. To remove the breast filets, pull or cut the skin back from the breast. Make cuts along each side of the breastbone as well as on the inside of both wings or the clavicle. To save the wings, peel the skin back and remove the wings from the cavity by cutting through the joint.
3. Find the breastbone and make an incision down each side of the breastbone to loosen the breast filet from the bone. Work from the rear of the breast forward, fileting off the breast by pulling the filet and using the knife as needed. Repeat this for the other side of the breast.
4. To remove the thigh and leg, cut through the thigh muscle where it attaches to the back. Then grab the thigh or leg and pull up until you can feel the joint pop loose. Keep cutting through the thigh until it comes free from the turkey’s body.
Plucking vs. Skinning
Considered the traditional style of cleaning a wild turkey, plucking is a perfect way to prepare your bird to be roasted, smoked or whole deep-fried. Before you remove the entrails or field dress the turkey pluck the turkey’s feathers to help keep the moisture in the turkey while cooking it whole. Remove the feathers after dipping the bird in hot water. Some people use boiling water but it has been said that 140-degree water is optimal for plucking a bird. Plucking does take time and produces more of a mess than does skinning; however, the taste of deep-fried or roasted turkey skin is worth the effort.
Many of today’s turkey hunters prefer skinning to plucking. Skinning a turkey allows you to cook the bird by frying or grilling the pieces of meat. You can skin and fillet the turkey breasts, and slice as much meat from the legs and wings as necessary. Make a cut just along one side of the breastbone. Then, it’s just a matter of working the skin off the breast halves, down the back and over each of the legs. In some states it’s illegal to only fillet the breast out, leaving the rest of the carcass behind. Always check your state’s hunt regulations, and make sure your turkey is properly tagged for transportation.
Field Dressing
In hot weather hunting conditions, field dressing your bird is a good idea before you clean it for the table. If you decide to field dress your bird, start by placing the turkey on its back. Find the bottom of the breast plate and insert your knife, making a cut to the anal vent. Remove the entrails from this opening and then reach into the cavity to sever the windpipe, heart and lungs. Cool the cavity by placing ice inside the chest.
Wednesday, May 04, 2005
Building a Small Smokehouse
The smokehouse described here is suitable for smoking small quantities of meat safely and economically.
Materials
- (2) 55 gallon steel drums free of oil, grease and dirt
- (6) Joints of stove pipe and 1 elbow, 6" diameter; black iron or galvanized or
- (6) Joints of clay tile, 6", and 1 quarter bend joint (tile is preferred)
- (2) Steel rods ½" x 3'
- (1) Piece of sheet metal or metal roofing approximately 3' x 3', or use ends cut from steel drums
- (6) 1" x 6" boards 3' long for smokehouse cover (cypress preferred)
Directions for Making
Use an old metal drum or tub 14"-16" high or cut a section from the drum to make a firebox. Set up the smokehouse as shown on the reverse side of this sheet and be sure that the tile or stove pipe smokestack is covered with at least two inches of dirt. The bottom of the smokehouse drum should be packed with dirt around the outside.
It is desirable to clean the smokehouse drum free of rust and paint it with an Epoxy resin base paint which is resistant to acids, alkalies, fats, moisture and high temperatures. Drums properly painted with this type ofpaint will last longer, clean easier and furnish cleaner smoked meat.
Directions for Smoking
Build a fire in the firebox with non-resinous dry wood. After the wood has burned down to red coals, put on a few pieces of green hardwood or hardwood sawdust. If green wood is not available, use semi-dry wood or hardwood sawdust.
Hang pieces of meat in the drum, 6 to 8 inches apart. Put cover on firebox and place wood cover on top of drum, weighting it down with a stone. Keep temperature in the drum below 140-150°F. If there is not enough draft, raise firebox cover at the back. Smoke meat until it is a bright nut brown color. This may take several hours or most of the day, depending on the heat of the firebox and the outside temperature.
After this process, the product should be smoked, not cooked. The internal temperature of a smoked meat product is in the 140° range. Smoked products are NOT fully cooked and ready to eat. Remember: Keep wood or sawdust smoldering instead of burning. Use only non-resinous wood or sawdust. Never smoke meat until after it has hung long enough to be dry on the outside. Wet meat does not smoke properly.
Never use kerosene, gasoline or oil to start a fire.
A wonderful way to invest in your families’ treasure trove of memories is by spending time in the great outdoors. Camping trips can be an excellent tradition that your family will look forward to and in time, look back upon with fond memories. Whether you plan to camp at the same place every year or seek out new places doesn’t matter as camping is always filled with new adventures. Your family might have a favorite place you go to every year mixed with a new spot you select together for another weekend or extended holiday during the year. There are so many national parks to explore; your options really are quite limitless. Camping doesn’t have to be an overly expensive expenditure. Again this all depends on how you’ll be camping. Camping in a tent carries a completely different dynamic than camping in a fully equipped camper. Camping in a tent is also relatively inexpensive. Perhaps the camper is something you’ll decide to invest in after a few years of tent camping, then again there are some who prefer to only go tent camping. There’s something to be said about the rustic quality of sleeping in a tent, you can hike to far off remote spots where you couldn’t get to with a camper in tow. Regardless of how you’ll be camping you’ll want to have the proper camping gear and accessories. First off you want to have the best tent and sleeping bags you can possibly afford. As your tent will be your home away from home for your trip and your sleeping bag will keep you warm and covered for those long nights under the stars (there are tents available that have mesh roofs for star gazing, of coarse if it starts to rain, you can just cover it up with your tent fly), you’ll want to be sure that both these items keep you appropriately covered so to speak. Next you’ll want to have proper camp accessories; a trustworthy camp stove, a lantern, flashlights, a first aid kit, tarp, cooking and eating utensils, a little axe (for chopping firewood, also doubles as a hammer for hammering in tent pegs), some rope (for clothes lines and securing tarp), and cooler. Along with your sleeping bag you’ll want to remember comfy pillows (unless your backpacking then you might want a convenient inflatable pillow) and very importantly a good sleep pad. An uncomfortable sleep experience on hard ground may steer you off tent camping altogether, so come prepared, a good sleeping pad is worth its weight in gold. A good idea to help you remember all these items is the camping check list. It’s a good idea to store your camp gear in some plastic containers. This way it’s all in one place (with your camp list included), so when it’s time to pack up and go camping you can go through the containers making any necessary additions needed. It’s very important to check that all your equipment is properly maintained and cared for; there is nothing worse than getting to your destination and finding that your camp stove is not working. You’ll also want to be sure that your camp fuel supply is replenished and you have extra batteries (for flashlights, lanterns or radios). One of the best things about the whole camping experience is the food. Now depending on where you’re camping and what time of year it is, if you’re lucky you’ll be able to do some of your cooking around the campfire. During dry seasons there may be fire restrictions due to forest fire concerns, if that’s the case you’ll do all your cooking atop your camping stove. Every meal always seems to taste a bit better when you’re camping, it might have something to do with all the fresh air, or maybe all the fun activity builds up you’re appetite, either way you’ll want to bring along some family favorites. For dinner maybe some grilling of the families select choices, accompanied by some corn on the cob and potatoes wrapped in tin foil cooked on the coals with a nice salad and later for dessert smores (marshmallow and a slice of chocolate sandwiched between two graham wafers), add to that some hot chocolate before bed and that’s a night of food to dream of. The activities (or lack of activities) will also make your camping trip one to remember. Hiking, kayaking, cycling and sailing might be on your agenda. Most parks offer excellent groomed hiking trails. Research in advance the area you will be visiting to know what activities will be available, you may be able to rent a kayak and take a lesson at the same time. Many areas also offer great bike trails that the family can cycle on together. A late night walk is among favorite suggestions; you can check out the stars and just listen to the silence. Bring along a book you’ve wanted to read or some magazines. Games are another excellent pastime, a deck of cards or a board game might be some fun. Of course you can always bring along some baseball gloves and a ball for a game of catch. Soccer balls, badminton rackets and a net or volleyball and net all make for a fun day at the park. If your family has little one’s you’ll be presented with a whole new challenge. Depending on the ages of your babies or toddlers you’ll want to pack some extra conveniences. There are excellent baby back carriers available allowing you to hike all sorts of terrain with baby in tow while keeping your back feeling comfortable, as well there are a numerous variety of baby strollers to select from which are great for using on trails. For toddlers you may want to bring a playpen to keep baby safe. You can never bring too many toys; the more your child has to keep them entertained you can rest assure they will be more content. Be prepared for weather changes by bringing along extra clothing. Most likely you will be camping in the warmer spring, summer and fall months. It’s wise to remember however that the evenings can often get quite cool. Bring along heavy sweaters or extra jackets for added warmth, it can never hurt to bring along a couple of extra blankets for comfort beside the fire (or for use at a day picnic). Rainwear is another excellent addition to your camping wardrobe. With good quality rain jackets, hats, rain pants and boots you can take advantage of the rainy weather and actually go out for a hike rather than staying inside the tent or worse yet ending your camp trip all together. Camping certainly has its challenges. Knowing what to bring and having the proper equipment and accessories is the first hurtle. Once you arrive at your destination and set up you want to keep everyone as comfortable and happy as possible, whether it’s keeping the kids occupied without the use of video games or cooking a surefire dinner. Rest assured that after your first couple of trips when you find out what everyone enjoys doing and you realize all you like to include on your trip, you will certainly add camping to your families list of favorite excursions and traditions. The wonderful thing about camping is its always different, perhaps the site is different or the campground you selected is unique to the last you stayed at, whatever the difference is it always seems to be an adventure that the whole family can enjoy.
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