Posts Tagged ‘survival’

Rest Area Car Camping at Dismal Nitch in Washington State

Posted: September 11, 2014 in Automobiles, Frugality, Fun!, HD Videos, VW Vanagon
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By Cameron McKirdy

Survival Bros followers know I’ve been on the road all summer in my 1986 Volkswagen Vanagon GL.  It’s ran strong for months straight.  I will do a big summer review blog soon, but here’s a van update shot recently on my travels around the Pacific Northwest.  Scope out the rest area known as Dismal Nitch.  This Washington State Park is a historic location, because The Lewis and Clark Expedition ran into trouble here, and were pinned against the rocks for six grueling days.  Harsh winds, and brutal rain pounded The Corps. of Discovery along the mighty Columbia River over 200 years ago.  

My overnight stay was much more pleasurable.  I was sheltered in my VW bus, protected from the elements.  I took advantage of the facilities by dumping my trash, washing my hands and teeth, and cooking on a covered picnic table in grass.  Dismal Nitch in WA also features a trail, informative maps, plus plaques about Lewis and Clark.  As mentioned in my HD video, you can stay parked for up to 8 hours, but overnight camping, and tenting are not allowed.  So keep a low profile, and pick up after yourself.  This is an excellent destination for car campers, and travelers on a budget, or just wanting to get away from the static of the city.  

I’ve spent the night in my vehicle here maybe six times this summer, and each trip has been a positive experience, and memorable.  So it’s Survival Bros tested, and approved.  Visit, because it’s probably the only rest area you’ll ever want to take a picture at.  Snap a selfie, and post it on Facebook, because I also got great cell phone reception out there.  The view of Astoria, and the bountiful river is astonishing, and extremely relaxing.  The only cons are lots of lighting in the parking lot, possibly affecting sleepers negatively.  The road noise is also noticeable, but luckily the highway is not heavily used.  Thanks for supporting my blog!  Feel free to comment, like, and share on social networks.  Peace and love from the road less traveled.

Lewis and Clark Bronze

Lewis and Clark Bronze Sculpture at Dismal Nitch Park in Washington State

Visit the official website for more info, and history by clicking here!

Walmart Parking Lot Car Camping Experience in Eugene Oregon

Posted: August 5, 2014 in Adventures, Automobiles, Comedy and Art, Frugality, Fun!, VW Vanagon
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Recently I camped in a Walmart parking lot on West 11th in Eugene, Oregon.  In this HD video you’ll get the scoop on what it’s like to do some urban stealth camping in my 1986 Volkswagen Vanagon GL.  It was noisy, and the space is well lit, but in general, I got great rest.  It feels good to be somewhere, and not have to pay for the experience.  This was a fun experiment, and I’d recommend it to any Survival Bros. out there.  Staying at Walmart for free beats dropping hundreds for a night in a hotel.  Would you try this?  Live simple my friends.  More videos about my summer road trip coming soon.  Thanks for visiting my blog!  Peace and love.

Have you visited People Of WalMart yet?  Click this.

The Ultimate Survival Shelter in The Woods

Posted: June 6, 2014 in Adventures, Backpacking, Shelter
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By Cameron McKirdy

This week Survival Bros went hiking in the woods near Cannon Beach, Oregon to kill and eat a bunny.  We saw, but didn’t catch the animal, so we explored the forest near logging roads.  To my shock we stumbled upon a massive survival shelter made from tarps, logs, cordage, and more.  There was even a 4-person tent inside, and the shack had a clean tarp floor.  The place was loaded with camping gear, and everything you’d need to be self-sufficient in the outdoors for a long time.  Watch the HD video to see how it was built, and what’s stored on the site.  Join the Survival Bros community on YouTube, and SUBSCRIBE TODAY!  It’s free of charge.  

 

Best Tarp Shelter in Woods

The best tarp shelter we’ve ever seen in the woods

A Great Goodwill Find Plus Thift Store Shopping Tips

Posted: May 8, 2014 in Adventures, Frugality, Fun!, Gear, Giving Back, HD Videos
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By Cameron McKirdy

1.  Check which color tag is 50% off that week when you walk in the door.

2.  See if the item works.  Plug it in.  Check for missing parts, or if it’s damaged.

3.  If you find something unique – RESEARCH IT on the spot with your smartphone.

  • Search Amazon and eBay
  • Scan the barcode with your phone’s camera

4.  Pull the trigger.  If you haven’t seen it before, BUY IT.  Your item may be a good investment because it’s rare.

Finally, keep the treasure for yourself, give it away to someone deserving, or sell it for a profit online or in person.

Here’s another sweet Goodwill find I scored this week, and show you on video.  It’s a rare Valterra skateboard from 1986!  It shreds.  

I found this road bike at Goodwill too, and now it’s a Bug Out Bike ready in case of emergencies.  I got new tires for it, and purchased a BOB Yak trailer to haul gear down the road with ease.  

Don’t forget to donate stuff you don’t need to charity.  I’ve seen Goodwill do good things in the community, and employee people that need assistance.  You’ll get a tax credit too just for being so kind.  Thanks for reading, and doing your part.  Peace from Survival Bros.

goodwill-logoGood luck treasure hunting at Goodwill and beyond!  Expect epic finds.

EDC Backpack Items List and Pocket Dump

Posted: April 25, 2014 in Backpacking, Everyday Carry (EDC), Gear, Guns, HD Videos
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Produced By Cameron McKirdy 

Tactical Gypsy, a Marine currently in the National Guard gives you a rundown on his everyday carry gear.  These are items he brings with him wherever he goes in general.  His tactical backpack is packed with things that could help him overcome adversity, and adapt to his environment.  Below is the full load-out list to help you plan out your own emergency bag.  With over 26,000 views on YouTube, this HD video will soon be our most popular production.  Please subscribe to us on YouTube to watch all of our epic videos, and to join in the discussion there.  Thanks for all of your support.  We have big plans for  for Survival Bros.  We’ve launched a secure store to provide you with gear, and nutritional supplements to make you more prepared for life.  We’ll be adding tons of new products shortly, so check out the shop often.  By supporting the blog, it gives us more free time to put out additional information to better serve you.   We wish you the best.  Now go get a prep out of the way today, to make tomorrow brighter.  Peace and love.

Tactical Gypsy’s EDC List:

– Notepad aka Black Book with Pen(s)

– Casio G’zOne Smart Phone

– Surefire LED Flashlight with extra batteries

– Bic Lighter

– Flavored Chapstick with SPF 15

– Wallet with cash, IDs, concealed hand gun permit, plus Passport

– Coast DX356 Knife

– Survival Straps Paracord Bracelet

– Suunto Black Core Watch

– Clothes Vary – Leather Belt

– Merrell Moab Boots (waterproof) with paracord shoe laces

– Glock 23 .40 Smith and Wesson with inside the waistband kydex holdster by Blade Tech

– Black Tactical Backpack (Adidas)

– Maxpedition Medical Pack with extra magazine, includes gauze, QuickClot, sterile pads, lots of tape

– Laptop (password protected) with charger

– Multi-tool and small serrated knife in case

– Large Plastic Bag

– Level 2 Body Armor

– Fixed blade throwing knife with paracord wrapped handle

– Boo Boo kit with Neosporin, duct tape, band-aids

– Toothpast (fluoride free) and toothpicks with floss

– Combat Application Tourniquet

– Weapon Light

– Electrical Tape

– Extra Cordage (shoe laces)

– Pouch of crystals and rocks

– Keys

– Odor Spray for Bullet-Proof vest, ect.

– Military Lensatic Compass

– Headphones and Earplugs

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Elk Jerky Recipe with Pictures

Posted: January 24, 2014 in Adventures, Cooking, Grub, Photos
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By Cameron McKirdy

Former Marine Tactical Gypsy has an exclusive Survival Bros blog and new elk jerky recipe for you.  He hunts in Oregon with seven other buddies, and no matter how much they kill, they split the meat evenly so nobody is left out.  This season his hunting party terminated five bulls, producing around 225 pounds of meat each.  He has used the animal for sausage, country fried steaks, and thick jerky strips.  His favorite cut is the back strap, which runs on each side of the spine.  It’s the most tender part, and is amazing in a stew of vegetables and spices.  Simmer that on a low boil for awhile, and you have a man meal sure to satisfy.  Tactical Gypsy also told me he likes to pan sear the meat first, to lock in the juice.

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To produce scrumptious elk jerky he cut slabs 1/4th of an inch thick, because they shrink.  His recipe calls for six or seven pounds of flesh, so he ends up with big nuggets to feast on.  Each hunk is approximately 4″ x 1″ wide.  The marinade calls for 4 1/2 cups of soy sauce, with plenty of Worcestershire depending on personal preference.  Mix in 1 pound of brown sugar, then a 8 oz. bottle of hickory liquid smoke flavoring.  Soak the elk in a bowl, or deep pan, and refrigerate for 12 hours..  After that, use a colander to run off the marinade.  Next, lay out the strips on the dehydrator trays evenly, with bigger pieces going on the bottom.  Sprinkle on coarse black pepper, turn the machine on high, and let her rip.  Check back every few hours, and rotate the racks as needed.  In 12 additional hours you’ll have a stash of jerky to devour, and give out to your friends.  Tactical Gypsy, if you are reading this, please save me a nug or two.  Survival Bros will have more blogs soon.  Check back often.  Likes, shares, and comments are appreciated.

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BIG Survival Bros Cache Unearthed in Seaside Oregon Hills

Posted: November 12, 2013 in Adventures, Caches, HD Videos, SB Tips
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Produced By Cameron McKirdy

Survival Bros Founder Cameron McKirdy digs up an emergency preparedness kit, and shows the contents.

Here’s when Survival Bros buried supplies in various waterproof containers all over town at high elevations.

Building small caches in case of a tsunami, or another disaster situation.

Survival Bros Logo Cool GreyThank you for visiting and supporting Survival Bros

Releasing a Rescued Duck at Lake Sacajawea in Longview Washington

Posted: October 13, 2013 in Adventures, Fun!, Parks, Pets/Animals
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Produced By Cameron McKirdy

Survival Bros decided to help a previously abandoned shelter pup out, and take him for a walk around Lake Sacajawea in Longview, Washington today.  Charlie spends way too much time in his concrete kennel, and was aching for attention, and exercise. The shelter is completely full of dogs right now, and would like to get some adopted out immediately.  Stop by or give them a ring if you need a buddy.

 When we got to The Humane Society of Cowlitz County they asked if we would release a wild, rescued duck too.  I’m a University of Oregon Duck, so of course I helped out.  We put the female in a crate, and drove to it’s home on the water.  She followed us for a ways down the path, but eventually settled in, and got regrouped.  All in a good days work.

Preparing For An Oregon Coast Storm – Safety Checklist

Posted: September 28, 2013 in Beach, Emergencies, Gear, Public Service Announcement
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Produced By Cameron McKirdy

The first nasty storm of the season is underway on the Oregon Coast.  The wind is bending trees, and flooding is a possibility.  I’m surprised the power is still on.  Seaside, OR is expected to have gusts up to 80 miles per hour!  Have a survival kit together, and an emergency plan for your family.  Here’s a checklist of supplies to gather just in case of a disaster.

– Water (A gallon per person per day for a minimum of 3 days.)

– Fuel AKA gas for cooking, and dry wood for fire

– Food (Stores could close for days without electricity.  Don’t buy perishable goods that need to be refrigerated.  Think fruit.)

– Candles

– Flashlights and headlamps with fresh batteries

– Blankets

– Shelter (It’s probably a good idea to stay inside, so you don’t get wet and sick.)

– Emergency Weather Radio

– Toys for kids, and treats for pets, because they will be scared in a super storm

– First Aid

– Gas (Fill up your vehicle in case there’s a rush for fuel, and you can’t get some later.)

– Books (Maybe ones on emergency planning.  We don’t want you to lose your mind without TV.)

– Whistle to signal for help

– Multi-tool and Wrench to turn off water, etc.

– Moist wipes, and garbage bags for sanitation and personal hygiene

– Local maps

– Manual Can Opener

– Generator and/or solar charger for electrical devices

– Cash/Silver/Barter Items

– Rain Gear/Warm clothes

– Prescription Medications

– Lighter and waterproof matches

– Paper and Pen for notes, and more checklists

– Communications: Cell Phones with chargers, and two-way radios

With all or most of these things you should be good to go, and ready for a super storm bringing flooding.  If you can think of any other handy items, please leave your suggestions in the comment section.  Thanks, and wish us Oregonians good luck this weekend.  It’s
going to be a wild one.  Peace and love from Survival Bros. 

Here’s a link to the live webcam in Seaside, OR on The Lanai at The Cove so you can checkout the current conditions.

There’s no flooding on Highway 101 right now, but high tide isn’t until this evening.

seaside odot cam

seaside odot floodingIt looks like Highway 101 is starting to flood!  Be careful out there.

Survival Bros Everyday Carry (E.D.C.) Keychain Items

Posted: September 13, 2013 in Coast Products, Emergencies, Everyday Carry (EDC), Kershaw Knives, Product Reviews
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Produced By Cameron McKirdy

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This is my new and improved EDC keychain system.  Now I have many practical items handy at all times, with little redundancy. I plan on changing out gear as I acquire smaller, higher quality tools, but this is stuff I had on hand. Everything fits easily in my pocket, since I usually wear athletic shorts, and not tight pants like a hipster.  I’ve also hooked my everyday carry survival keychain to the belt loop on my jeans, and to the outside of my tactical Bug Out Bag, for easy access.  I’d like to add a telepen, peanut lighter, USB thumb drive, glow in the dark tape, 550 paracord, bit driver, seat-belt cutter/knife sharpener, and maybe something for self defense like a kubaton, or pepper spray.  

I will update this blog post as the project develops. Tell us what’s on your keychain, and help out other Survival Bros readers. Below is the EDC Keychain items list. Thanks for visiting.

– Sharpie Mini
– CRKT Eat N’ Tool (tactical spork)
– 4 In One Tool: whistle, compass, thermometer, magnifying glass
– Gerber Shard multitool: pry bar, bottle/can opener, Phillips/Standard screw driver, nail puller
– Coast Products TX5 Night Vision Red Keychain light
– LED LENSER P3 AFS P focusing LED light with pocket clip, sheath, and carabiner included
– Leatherman Style Multitool: knife, tweezers, nail file, and scissors
– Kershaw Rainbow Chive with Tip-lock (Ken Onion Design)
– Mini Nail Clippers
– Waterproof pill container
– Lighter Leash for Bic
– Belt Loop Clasp

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