Sir:
I would like to commend the author of “Lessons Learned From A Novice Hunting Trip”. Being a hunter and avid backpacker, I can attest to the validity of each of his points. I can add a couple of lessons I have learned over the years as well:
1. To get from point A to point B in terms of weight; you need more water than food, more food than junk. Long duration movement is physically taxing and every ounce must be worth carrying and purposeful. Don’t skimp on quality when your life may depend upon it, whether it be a pack, a knife, or a pair of boots. Be selective and do your homework. What’s your rear worth to you? Everything you carry is your life support system.
2. The forest or the desert is not your backyard. You are a potential food source for a myriad number of biting, stinging and sucking insects. They will find you. So you must protect yourself with the proper clothing or repellent and potential treatment.
And finally, his point on the abundance of game within the suburbs versus that in a natural setting should be noted lest any preppers lull themselves to thinking that the taking of game is easy where the competition for life is already a day to day struggle. The most experienced hunters I know don’t always come back from a hunt successful.
I know it’s been said ad nauseam, but what I cannot emphasize enough is that the most important tool you possess is what’s between your ears. You must use it in preparation, action, and contingency.
Always a pleasure to read these articles for perspective! – JWB, Jr.