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The battling brothers are back together for episode 123 of the Sumo Survival Bushcraft Podcast. 2018 is coming to an end and the brothers get together to answer more bushcraft questions. Kit of the month Sean chooses the UST Splashflash - a small personal safety beacon ideal for the bush crafter and at a pocket friendly price. Sy surprises everyone by choosing his latest acquisition - a 3D printer. Sy explains why this distinctly non-bushcraft piece of kit actually offer a lot of options to the bush crafter looking to improve, repair or extend the life of their equipment. Educating Sumo - Napsack Hammocks The guys from Napsack Hammocks join Sy to talk about their new range of hammocks which are produced in Scotland and share some of the groundbreaking features they have included in their design and manufacture. The fellas also share some valuable advice on hammock camping and Bushcraft Questions Topics for questions include - alcohol stoves, the Wisport Zipperfox Rucksack, water purification tablets, Zebra billy cans, mill bank filtration bags and celebrity designed knives for the bush crafter Another packed edition of the Sumo Survival Bushcraft Podcast. If you, your bushcraft school or your outdoor company would like to feature in a future episode of the Sumo Survival Bushcraft Podcast then please get in touch with us. The Sumo Survival Bushcraft Podcast will return in February 2019. Show Links Napsack Hammocks - https://www.napsackhammocks.com/ Splashflash - https://goo.gl/jkbjaa Wisport Zipperfox Rucksack - https://goo.gl/Bh2U5k Zebra Billy Cans - https://amzn.to/2PDmrgZ Stanley Adventure Cook Set - https://amzn.to/2QVMb59 3D Printer - https://amzn.to/2Buhtcy Fandabi Dozi -https://goo.gl/68sNJu

The guys are back for episode 122 of the Sumo Survival Bushcraft Podcast. Questions, kit reviews and dodgy kit all feature in this show. Top nosh Sean talks about the taster packs available from Firepot, a British food company who specialise in dehydrated food for use in the outdoors. The taster packs consist of half portions for those looking for a light and tasty bite to eat while out in the wilds. Kit of the month The guys share their individual kit of the month picks. Sy opts for the very affordable Robin Wood Bushcraft Axe which has impressed both brothers. This may be inexpensive but the quality id definitely higher than most other manufacturers. Sean has chosen the MSR Pocker Rocket 2 stove after he sought to lessen his load when walking this summer in the Scottish hills and mountains. This compact and lightweight stove is a top performer and Sean shares his experience of the stove in use and how it compares to others. Listener questions This month we have a real mix of questions from listens of the podcast. Topics include refilling camping gas cylinders, wild camping in Scotland, hand made knives, camping stoves, Sean’s tarp set up and civilian bivvy bags. Dodgy kit Paul from Crieff has been in touch with the guys to let us know about dangerous portable camping gas stoves after the one he bought from eBay recently burst into flames. The guys talk about how the problem with faulty gas appliances available through the website is becoming a huge issue that has to be addressed urgently. Another packed edition of the Sumo Survival Bushcraft Podcast. If you, your bushcraft school or your outdoor company would like to feature in a future episode of the Sumo Survival Bushcraft Podcast then please get in touch with us. Show Links Firepot - https://www.firepotfood.com/ Robin Wood Bushcraft Axe - https://wood-tools.co.uk/tools/bushcraft-axe/ Pocket Rocket 2 - https://amzn.to/2ITQdaK Coleman Fyrestorm PCS Stove - http://www.sumosurvival.com/review-coleman-fyrestorm-pcs-stove/ DD Tarp S Review - http://www.sumosurvival.com/dd-hammocks-dd-tarp-s-review/ Tarp set ups video - https://youtu.be/jD5yO76j0No Lanksky World Legal - https://www.heinnie.com/lansky-world-legal-knife-21632 Jaktkit Knv3 - http://www.sumosurvival.com/jaktkit-knv3-a-tough-knife-for-tough-jobs-bushcraft-review/ Dutch Bushcraft Knives - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC0k91MwJuS5VvNOJdbDhPYA

This episode is packed with a great mix of outdoors advice and views. Kit of the Month The guys share this month’s favourite pieces of kit. Sean opts for the Gerber Dime micro multi-tool and explains how this little tool has proven to be a tough and usable EDC tool. Sy talks about his favour axe and explains how this basic model is really good for the beginning an experienced user alike. Educating Sumo - Getting Lost. Sean shares an acronym that he learnt many years ago with a young Army cadet - STOP - and explains how this simple process can help you can back on track one safety if you accidentally find yourself lost int he wilds. STOP: Instead off carrying on walking and hoping that you will find your way again and, potentially getting yourself more lost or in danger, just stop. THINK: Once stopped, calm yourself down and think rationally about the situation in which you have found yourself. In my experience, sitting down and having a cuppa and a bite to eat is a good way of calming and grounding yourself. OBSERVE: Study your surroundings and try to identify the features that you are seeing in front of you on your map. Avoiding picking out small features and instead look for large features like hill top radio masts, buildings or peaks. Observing and identifying features in the landscape will allow you to orientate your map to your surroundings and, when paired with your compass, will give you an approximate position. PLAN: After orientating your map you then need to plan your route back to safety. Ask yourself if you can you retrace your steps and if not can you identify a route that can get you back on track or to safety. Rational thinking is key here as it can be tempting to take what you may perceive to be a short cut but, through panic, you may be opting for a route that is beyond your abilities or could be troublesome due to weather conditions. Take your time and carefully plan your route forward. Listener Questions Topic for questions this week include the SAS Survival Flickbook, bushcraft stalls and compasses. Another packed edition of the Sumo Survival Bushcraft Podcast. If you, your bushcraft school or your outdoor company would like to feature in a future episode of the Sumo Survival Bushcraft Podcast then please get in touch with us. Show Links TA Outdoors video - https://youtu.be/0_4JKywBom0 Gerber Dime - https://amzn.to/2wPJYz0 Fiskars S-X10 - https://amzn.to/2CpncnO Fiskars S-X7 - https://amzn.to/2Q9X96Y

The brothers are hitting the trails in this episode of the Sumo Survival Bushcraft Podcast. This edition is very outdoors orientated as the guys get together to chat and answer questions. Educating Sumo This month Sy runs us through the differences between grid and magnetic North and shares some map and compass techniques that you really should know before hitting the hills, moors and mountains of the UK. Listener Questions This month we have been sent quite a few questions from listeners from within the bushcraft community. Topics include Scotland’s zero tolerance policy on knives and why it should be publicised more to visitors, the mystery of why a outdoors school is saying that campfires are no longer required, a bivi bag deal that can’t be missed and whoopee slings explained for the novice hammock camper. We also have some advice from listener Alex following on from our last episode when we spoke about reducing sotting caused by burning meths in Triangia style burners. Dodgy Kit Luke from Bolton shares a warning with us about a campfire tipped pot holder which fails when exposed to the heat of a fire. Kit of the month Sean and Sy talk about the kit that have really shone through since out last episode. Sean talks about why the humble British Armed Forces ’58 pattern water bottle and mug has really proven itself in the recent heatwave and Sy share his experience of the Fjallraven Kaipak 58 rucksack. Another packed edition of the Sumo Survival Bushcraft Podcast. If you, your bushcraft school or your outdoor company would like to feature in a future episode of the Sumo Survival Bushcraft Podcast then please get in touch with us. Show Links BCB ’58 Pattern Water Bottle & Mug - https://amzn.to/2MFY9gY Fjällräven Kaipak 58 - https://amzn.to/2MczbK5 Triangia style burner - https://amzn.to/2w3QWQH

The Sumo Survival brothers are back with episode 119 of their Bushcraft Podcast. In this show the guys catch up with each other after a really busy period and have a chat about what has been happening in the bushcraft community. Calling all bushcrafters! To kick things off the fellas talk about the recent developments to the forthcoming changes in the UK knife law. There is now a petition on the UK Government and Parliament web portal to Remove article 15 of the Offensive Weapons Bill (HC Bill 232). Sean explains what the petition is for and why it is important that everyone in the community sign it to prevent this damaging law from doing into being. You can sign the petition by visiting https://petition.parliament.uk/petitions/222776 Kit of the month Sean kit of the month for this show is his Salomon 4D 2 GTX walking boots and he explains why they are ideal for the hot weather we have been having in the UK. Sy opts for his recent purchase of a Craghoppers Nosilife shirt which has proven to be a tough bit of clothing for the micro-adventurer. Educating Sumo Sy explains what the IP rating on your devices actually means and what you should be aware of before taking your treasured gadget into the outdoors. Listener Questions The brothers answer more questions from listeners of the podcast. Questions this episode include reducing sooting when using meth burners, improvised poncho shelters and what wild edible the guys like to make tea with. Dodgy Kit We have a warning about poorly designed, produced and supported hammock that is currently being sold by a third-party vendor on Amazon. Another packed edition of the Sumo Survival Bushcraft Podcast. If you, your bushcraft school or your outdoor company would like to feature in a future episode of the Sumo Survival Bushcraft Podcast then please get in touch with us. Show Links Craghoppers NosiLife shirt - https://www.craghoppers.com/nosilife-adventure-long-sleeved-shirt-parchment/ Salomon 4D 2 GTX - https://amzn.to/2zkniLT Ray Mears Leaf Cutter Rucksack - https://www.raymears.com/Bushcraft_Product/960-Ray-Mears-Leaf-Cutter-Rucksack/

After a long and unexpected break, the guys are back to share some community news and answer questions. This is a feature packed episode including our kit of the month feature with the guys sharing the kit they have been have been finding to be the most useful since the last podcast. Sean has chosen the Highlander Blackthorn 2 tent and Sy opts for a particular type of budget torch that will surprise many regular listeners. Educating Sumo Neil from Back Country Survival joins the podcast to share his knowledge on weather forecasting. Neil runs novice weather weather Sy through the basics of translating what is seen on a forecast chart to help you to assess coming weather conditions. To follow this informative mini tutorial please make sure you download the synoptic resource from the Back Country Survival website - https://www.backcountrysurvival.co.uk/2018/04/17/synoptic-resource/ Catch up with the community The guys talk about the latest series of The Island hosted by Bear Grylls. This latest run of the popular series has been both interesting and fretting in equal measures and the brothers talks about what they have taken away from it . The new amendments to the UK Knife Laws are also a topic of discussion for the fellas. This upcoming move by the Government has been seen by many as a yet another restriction of personal freedom and the guys talk about the reaction that has been seen throughout the various different communities within the larger bushcraft and prepping scene. Bushcraft Questions The fellas answer more questions sent in by listeners and topics include cleaning venture clothing, rights of access in Scotland, Facebook account deletions and how tough the Logo SW1 watch is and is it worth the money. Another packed edition of the Sumo Survival Bushcraft Podcast. If you, your bushcraft school or your outdoor company would like to feature in a future episode of the Sumo Survival Bushcraft Podcast then please get in touch with us. Show Links Ventile - http://www.ventile.co.uk/specification/ Back Country Survival – https://www.backcountrysurvival.co.uk/ Highlander Blackthorn 2 Tent - https://amzn.to/2rLVolR Nikwax Cotton Proof - https://amzn.to/2rMasPs

Richard Marples from Craghoppers joins the guys in episode 117 of the Sumo Survival Bushcraft Podcast. The guys are once again at opposite ends of the country and back to answer more listener questions and share some news from the bushcraft community. BushMoot tickets The opportunity to grab earlybird tickets for this year’s BushMoot ends on April 1st. This is one the highlights in the UK’s and Europe’s bushcraft calendar and is loved by many in our community. Kit of the month This month Sy explains why a roll of Gorilla tape is his pick for kit of the month and why you should include a roll in your pack when heading out. For his pick, Sean revisits a favourite from 2015. The Snugpack Enhanced Patrol Poncho has proven to be a valuable piece of kit in the poor weather that Sean has been making his way through recently. Modern fabrics explained… Richard Marples shares his extensive knowledge of the fabrics used to produce the kit that we as outdoors enthusiasts use often. Richard explains what the term hydrostatic head means and what makes a fabric breathable and also gives us some insights on how you should maintain your waterproof equipment to help improve it’s life and effectiveness. Plenty of top tips to keep your kit in good order. Listener questions answered We have a good mixed bag of questions sent in by listeners. Topics covered in this episode include the new range of instructional books from Bear Grylls for kids, safety in the outdoors, which countries provide the best surplus military kit for the bush crafter, the UK’s approach to snow and how the guys feel about having a worldwide audience. Another packed edition of the Sumo Survival Bushcraft Podcast. If you, your bushcraft school or your outdoor company would like to feature in a future episode of the Sumo Survival Bushcraft Podcast then please get in touch with us. Show Links BushMoot - http://www.bushmoot.com/ Craghoppers - https://www.craghoppers.com/ Gorilla Tape - http://amzn.to/2Iz8nOC Snugpack Enhanced Patrol Poncho review - https://goo.gl/je06ps Bear Grylls Survival Skills Books - http://amzn.to/2tWWw9Q

Join the guys for episode 116 of the Sumo Survival Bushcraft Podcast. This month is packed with questions, news and kit. Sy talks about the upcoming series of presentations by Ant Middleton of tv series SAS: Who Dares Wins and what he looking forward to seeing from the famed former special forces soldier. Sean highlights his recently purchased Splash Map as his kit of the month and talks us through what to expect from this novel fabric maps and what you can do with them. Sy talks about some hand warmers he used for a recent winter camping trip and how they will be a joining his roster of emergency kit. The topics for questions this month include - online bushcraft courses, dying military webbing, emergency mess tins and whether or not to trust content from commercial bushcrafters on YouTube. Another packed edition of the Sumo Survival Bushcraft Podcast. If you, your bushcraft school or your outdoor company would like to feature in a future episode of the Sumo Survival Bushcraft Podcast then please get in touch with us. Show Links Splash Maps - http://www.splash-maps.com/ Frontier Bushcraft Online - http://www.onlinebushcraftcourses.com/ Kit Monster - http://www.kitmonster.co.uk/product_info.php/products_id/2466

Episode 115 - Backpacks, Russian Stoves and Bushcraft Books Join Sean and Sy in the first Sumo Survival Bushcraft Podcast of 2018! In episode 115 the guys catch up with what has been happening over the holidays and much more. To kick things off the fellas discuss the interview with David Attenborough that recently appeared in The Independent which criticised Bear Grylls for his programme “The Island”. The guys discuss Attenborough’s views on the issue highlighted in the article. Kit of the Month Sean talks about his recent published review of 28 litre Recon Day Pack from Scottish equipment manufacturer Highlander. Sean highlights the good and bad points with this latest offering and what his experience of it has been when testing it this winter. Educating Sumo Sy recently bought himself Russian military clone of a multi-fuel Primus stove. The guys talk about the stove and Sy explains how it works and what kind of fuels you can use through it. These stoves are an excellent investment for those not wishing to use gas cartridges. Bushcraft Questions John from Lancaster asks the guys what is the best way to store standard Alkaline batteries such as AA and AAA’s. Sy explains what steps he takes when acquiring and storing batteries and Sean highlights a few things to watch out for when buying batteries of this sort. After listening to a old episode of the podcast, Grant from Wrexham asks the brothers if they can suggest one and if fire pistons any good for the bushcrafter. Sean talks about his experience with fire pistons and why they may not be a good addition to your fire lighting gear. Alan from Hull is keen to get into radio as he thinks it would be a invaluable skill to add to his bushcraft skillset and he asks Sy if he can recommend some online resources where he can find out more. Sy suggest some excellent website and groups that can point him and other with a similar interest in the right direction. Marvin Fore from the US asks the guys if they have a favourite outdoor book or author and what kit they are currently geeking out on. Thee brother talk about the books and authors that inspire them and some of the kit that they are really taking a interest in. Dodgy Kit Sean warns us about the latest flood of cheap copies of mainstream knives and why you should avoid them. Another packed edition of the Sumo Survival Bushcraft Podcast. If you, your bushcraft school or your outdoor company would like to feature in a future episode of the Sumo Survival Bushcraft Podcast then please get in touch with us. Show links David Attenbourgh interview - https://goo.gl/7JYfW7 Highlander Recon Review - http://www.sumosurvival.com/review-highlander-recon-day-pack/ Sy’s Stove - https://goo.gl/4n1Eab Radio resources - essexham.co.uk Great American Survival - https://youtu.be/PmH4P5A9u-s

Join Sy and Sean in the new monthly Sumo Survival Bushcraft Podcast. The guys catch up with the latest things happening with Sumo Survival in the 114th episode of the podcast. The fellas start off the podcast as always by answering questions sent in by listeners. Topics include - headlamps for under £50, hammock camping in Scotland, Pathfinder equipment and reflective SOLAS tape. Sy talks about his recent review of the Maxpedition Wolfspur Crossbody Shoulder Bag which was posted on the website. He tells listeners about how useful he has found it and what uses he has put it to side buying it. The guys also chat about why Maxpedition gear is more expensive than competitors. Sean talks about the Highlander Elite boots he is currently testing and how he finding them when hillwalking. The guys talk about the importance of boots and why it is important to buy good quality boots for use in the outdoors. Educating Sumo - Sy talks about plasma lighters and how they work and why it is important to be careful while using them. Sy catches up with Prepper Del and Jason from RJ Bushcraft and finds out more about their New World Order prepper and survival skills group. They talk about their plans to create a network of radio users that can be ready should mainstream methods of communication fail. The guys share a dodgy kit warning about the Brunton Hydrogen Reactor Portable Fuel Cell after many people have reported problems with now defunct piece bit of kit. Sy shares his experience with this power pack and why it really didn’t stand up to the manufacturers claims. Another packed edition of the Sumo Survival Bushcraft Podcast. If you, your bushcraft school or your outdoor company would like to feature in a future episode of the Sumo Survival Bushcraft Podcast then please get in touch with us. Show Links Reflective Supplies - https://reflectivesupplies.co.uk/ Petzl Tikkina - https://www.petzl.com/US/en/Sport/CLASSIC-headlamps/TIKKINA Petzl Actik - https://www.petzl.com/GB/en/Sport/ACTIVE-headlamps/ACTIK Maxpedition Wolfspur Crossbody - http://www.sumosurvival.com/review-of-maxpedition-wolfspur-crossbody-shoulder-bag/

Join the Makin brothers in the Sumo Survival Bushcraft Podcast 113. The fellas chat other some of the things that have been affecting the bushcraft community lately and share some news. The first thing discussed the episode is the change from a fortnightly to a monthly podcast. The guys have both had changes in their working lives making the fortnightly recording of the show difficult to fit in to the already busy lives. The change to a monthly basis will allow the guys to get more into a episode, bring more people on board and make the podcast even better. A hot topic this week involves the community’s favourite magazine - The Bushcraft Journal. The magazine is now available for free through their website (see link below). This is fantastic news and will make learning bushcraft skills accessible for any more people. Sy talks about a new jacket he is bought himself for wearing while out in the woods. The Helikon Jackal Soft Shell Jacket is a flexible and lightweight solution for those wanting a good working jacket at a reasonable cost. Sy also talks about the Helikon CPU hat which he bought for recent trip to sunny Portugal. The guys talk about the recent changes in the law affecting online knife sales and why it will have a major affect on legitimate users of these tools and the online retailers. Heinnie Haynes recently posts up their response to these changes on their blog. Sean has been testing a low-cost but high performing watch from Glasgow-based firm Logo. The SW! sports watch is packed full of features for the outdoors user and is a tough bit of kit. Sean will be posting a full review on the Sumo Survival website soon. The guys also discuss the pros and cons of the recent campaigns to re-wild Scotland and why it will have an effect on the outdoors community. Another packed show from the battling brothers. Show Links Helikon Jackal Soft Shell Jacket - http://www.military1st.co.uk/bl-jck-fs-27-helikon-jackal-soft-shell-jacket-jungle-green.html Helikon CPU Hat - http://www.military1st.co.uk/products/ka-cpu-pr-11-helikon-cpu-hat-coyote.html The Bushcraft Journal - http://www.thebushcraftjournal.com/ Lomo SW1 Watch - http://www.lomo.co.uk/acatalog/waterproof-sports-watch-sw1.html Heinnies Haynes post - https://www.heinnie.com/blog/heinnie-haynes-response-to-the-home-secretarys-announcement/

Join the battling brothers in the 112th episode of the Sumo Survival podcast. After a delay thanks to technical problems that outwith their control the guys get right back into it and answer more questions sent in by listeners. Rick from Dundee is new to bushcraft and the outdoors and asks if digital compasses are any good or should they be avoided. The bothers talk about the various issues that can arise with digital compasses and why traditional compasses are often eh best and safer option. Bristol based Stephen asks what the best way to choose a backpack the kind suitable for camping and walking. The fellas chat about what people should look out and consider when buying a new backpack. Mark from Kirkcudbright asks what are the best kind of water purification tablets to buy and where should he buy them. The guys talk about the various options available and Sean suggest two brands that he has had plenty of experience with in the past and where you should buy them to make sure you are getting the genuine product. Brian asks if the latest trend of inflatable small one-man tents are nonsense or if they are something that should be considered when buying a tent. Both the the brothers have had limited exposure to inflatable tents and they chat about what they see as being possible problems with them. Vic from Bradford wants to know more about the radios the guys were using in their 100th podcast video. Sy discuses the radios they were using and fills listeners in on what to look for and what legal issues could be involved in operating a similar type of radio if they are incorrectly programmed. The guys also update listeners on the topic of snaring in the UK which was mentioned in a question from the last episode of the podcast. Sy also lets listeners know about a bit of kit he has been testing over the past few months prior to him uploading his video review. Show Links Oasis Water Purification Tablets - http://amzn.to/2ezzyhZ Aqua Tabs - http://amzn.to/2vCz5mM Gerber Dime - http://amzn.to/2vW0P0O Wisport Zipperfox Rucksack - https://goo.gl/JfC4vB

The 111th episode of the Sumo Survival Bushcraft Podcast sees Sean on his own for this episode. Thanks to gremlins in the tech Sy has to remain silent this week but Sean cracks on and answers more questions sent in by listeners. James from Norfolk asks what the best type of cordage is for making snares. Sean talk about his past experience and what to remember regarding the UK law regarding snares. Rod from Ireland asks if there is a low cost way of restoring the waterproofness of old tarps. Sean shares what happened when he tried to do the same thing and how it is often cheaper to buy a new tarp instead. Dorset based Paul asks why are there so few coastal bushcraft courses in the UK when we have the ideal coastline for running them. Sean explains what he found when looking for such courses and why it looks like there aren’t many courses out there when there are actually many. Stevie from Bristol asks what he is best looking out for when buying surplus water bottles and cookware. Sean explains what he does when buying ex-Army equipment and what to avoid doing. After many people got in touch Sean talks about the recent dispute between Scottish outdoor clothing manufacturer Hilltrek and the National Trust for Scotland.

Join Sean and Sy in Episode 109 of the Sumo Survival Bushcraft Podcast. Mike from Leeds is new to camping and asks the guys if it wise to carry your water or multiple bottles or carry it in one container within your backpack. Sean shares some experiences from his teenage years where he ran into problems when his kit let him down. Southhampton based Will asks if the Dickies kit the guys tested in April 2015 proved to be good for bushcrafting. The guys talk about their experience with the gear and what is still getting used by them. Adam asks it would be possible to feature a directory of bushcraft groups on the Sumo Survival website. The guys talks about possible things that can be included in the next phase of development. Paul from Kinghorn is teaching himself how to navigate with a map and compass. At the moment he is using a Silva baseplate compass asks if he should also be learning how to used a lensatic compass as well. The brothers discuss the benefits of learning to use each system. Silva Lensatic 360 Craig from Yorkshire ask Sean when he will have his review of the Victorinox Swiss Army Champ up online. Sean talks about his experience of using the chunky little pocket knife and when he thinks his final review will be online. Wrexham based Ian has been given a old fixed blade knife by his uncle which he reckons is about 30-40 years old. The blade had some corrosion on it but it was easily cleaned up using some fine grit emery paper and the edge sharpened up really well on a wet stone. The wooden handle needs some attention and he asks the fellas what is the best way to approach this. The guys suggest some things you can try to restore wooden scales back to their former glory. Bedford based Brian has recently read the 4 reviews of the wire saws on the Sumo Survival website and wonders if these really just a gadget or do they really serve a purpose for the civilian. They guys talk about the saws and what alternatives to consider. The brothers also take about the upcoming new law governing online knife sales in the UK. England and Wales and how it will affect how we buy our it online and what the knock effects of this will have on many retailers. We have a dodgy kit from Mick from Bradford recently bought a non-brand maxpedition fatboy clone for £40 from eBay that he would like to warn others about. Show links Wax for wooden handles - http://amzn.to/2uNBxD1 Wire saw reviews - http://www.sumosurvival.com/category/wire-saws/ Silky Saws - http://www.silkysaws.com/ Article covering UK Knife Law - http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-40640810 RJ Bushcraft - https://shop.rjbushcraft.com/

Sy has returned from France and joins Sean for episode 109 of the Sumo Survival Bushcraft Podcast. We have quite a mix of listener questions in this cast and the guys chat about some news from the community. Grant from Ryde asks the guys why UK bushcrafters on youtube focus some much on living in woodlands where elsewhere in the world woods seldom feature in their videos. The fellas suggest possible reasons for UK bushcrafters having a fondness for woodlands. New listener Leith based Tom asks why it takes so long for kit reviews to appear on the Sumo Survival website. Sean explains why kit reviews sometimes take several months to appear on the website and why the guys are dedicated to testing kit properly to give a honest and accurate opinion. Paul from Bolton is honing up his sharpening skills and asks if there is specific type of leather required for making leather sharpening strops. Sy talks about the kinds of material that can be used for stropping a blade edge and what he favours. Steve in Bahrain asks if he will be able to use his trusty Kukri in the woods when he returns to Scotland later this year given that the knife laws seem to be tougher and can be slightly confusing. Sy covers the aspects of the law to consider. Stubbs from North Yorkshire asks what the best way is to learn how to tie knots. The fellas discuss the various techniques and resources that can help you learn how to tie effective knots. Ewan from Poole is struggling to get a copy of the Lofty Wiseman Survival Skills dvd produced by Trueways. Sean tlaks about how the video content is still available as in-app purchases through the SAS Survival Handbook app. Rob from Shrewsbury asks Sy which is better sharpening stone for a typical bushcraft type axe the Lansky Puck or the Gransfors Puck. Sy explains that there really isn’t much of a difference when it comes to sharpening a axe provided you approach the sharpening process correctly. Sean interviews Briony from our friends Fife Zoo about their crowdfunding campaign and what they hope to achieve if they reach their funding goal. Show links Bush Moot - http://www.bushmoot.com/ RJ Bushcraft - http://www.bushcraftscotland.co.uk/ Mark Pownall Video - https://youtu.be/juKX2n3Jbbs Klean Kanteen - http://amzn.to/2tVQzsu Sy’s Lansky Puck video - https://youtu.be/d3N6_Wk_TY8 Lansky Puck - http://amzn.to/2uYbGaq Gransfors Puck - http://amzn.to/2tCW1hr Fife Zoo Crowdfunder Campaign - http://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/crowdfund-fife-zoo Military First - http://www.military1st.co.uk

Join Sy and Sean in episode 108 of the Sumo Survival Bushcraft Podcast. The guys revisit some previously answered questions along with some new ones. John from new castle attended a local event where some bush crafters were demonstrating some basic outdoor skills to the public and noticed that a few of the guys there were wearing their waterproof jackets under their combat jackets. He asks the guys why would they do this? The fellas suggests some possible reasons for it. Dublin based Francis asks if buying off the shelf survival tins/kits are a good investment or is it better to make up your own. They guys talk about how they approach it and suggest some ideas that Francis can try. Mark from Blairgowrie was recently wild camping in untended field near where he lives and awoke to a very angry farmer telling to pack up and move off his land. He asks the guys if the farmer has the right to do that. The brother discuss the issues surrounding wild camping in Scotland and what rights you and the landowner have in regards to it. Sean covers phase 1 of the new sumo website and the direction the next phase will take and how that is going to involve the community. Show Links Parody survival kit review - https://youtu.be/2R9p1p3bTSI BCB Combat Survival Kit - http://amzn.to/2rpuh1L BCB Ultimate Survival Kit - http://amzn.to/2s99YTe Paul Kirtley at 2017 Bushcraft Show - https://youtu.be/jvTGVAhUqNo

After a hectic month the Sumo Survival guys have managed to get back together to catch up and record episode 107 of their bushcraft podcast. Brendan from Whitby recently signed up to a outward bound course through work. I haven’t take part in anything like this since I was a nipper 35 years ago. On the kit let they are advised to bring along with them it mentions a shock proof watch. Brendan asks the guys this - This may seem like a silly question but why would I need a shock proof watch? The guys talks about why a shock proof watch isn’t a bad idea when heading out for adventure. Cornwall based Rick asks if it the latest fad of civilians attempting the infamous Fan Dance on Pen-Y-Fan while carrying heavy loads is madness or is there something to be learned from doing something like this. The brothers talk about the route and the possible dangers in attempting it and why, for the unprepared, it is perhaps best avoided. Graham who currently is enjoying life as a Army Cadet from Wiltshire recently read the review of the Varta Indestructible Powerpack on the Sumo website and was wondering asks if there are any special precautions you should take when packing them in your pack and taking them with you go out on a hike. Sy shares some advice about power packs and how to best handle them After the spell of good weather across the UK, Mark from Kilmarnock asks the guys what kind of jackets are best for bush crafting in hot weather. The guys share their warm weather kit lists and talk about some of kit to avoid. Show Links Pen Y Fan - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pen_y_Fan The Fan Dance Race - http://www.thefandancerace.com/ Paramo Fuera Windproof Smock - http://amzn.to/2rcAQBp Casio Pro Trek Watch Review - https://goo.gl/0j0xv7 Varta Indestructible Powerpack Review - https://goo.gl/SxMFm3 Coleman Fyrestorm PCS review - https://goo.gl/W95HHw TA Outdoors - https://www.youtube.com/user/TheTAoutdoors

Join the Sumo Survival brothers in Episode 106 of their bushcraft podcast. Mike from Dundee asks the guys if they think that the new camping bylaws introduced around Loch Lomond have prevented damages to the environment. The guys talk about the recent activity surrounding the issue and what they think should happen in order to move forward. Norfolk based Kenneth asks for some advice about health and fitness. He recently was thinking about going on a bushcraft course and wonders if he should have a medical before booking one especially as he recently turned 50. Sy reckons that it is a good idea and Sean talks about how other outdoor providers address fitness. Billy from Telford has been having problems with sharpening his bushcraft knives and he asks if it is worthwhile sending them away to be professionally sharpened. The brothers talk about how they approach learning how to sharpen knives and what you can do to improve your skills. Sy shares his recent experience of a seaweed foraging course he recently attend and how some of nature’s goodies weren’t for him. Sean also catches up with Paul More on a leatherwork course and gets the latest news of developments with RJ Bushcraft straight from Jason himself. If you, your bushcraft school or your outdoor company would like to feature in a future episode of the Sumo Survival Bushcraft Podcast then please get in touch with us. Show Links Seaweed course - https://monicawilde.com Wildfood UK - http://www.wildfooduk.com/ Paul Dore Bushcraft - https://pauldorebushcraft.wordpress.com/ RJ Bushcraft - https://shop.rjbushcraft.com/

Sean and Sy and back together again after a short break in episode 105 of the Sumo Survival Bushcraft Podcast Mike from Gateshead has been offered a full set of old British Army 58 pattern webbing including poncho, backpack and respirator pouch by a friend of a friend for £50 and the guys if is this a good price and would this be good for the bush crafter. Sean and Sy both used the webbing sets as cadets in the 1980’s and talk about the disadvantages of such equipment and what to perhaps look towards instead. Sheffield based Toby asks which is better - water purification tabs or a water filter straw? The brother talks about their experiences of the tablets and what to be ware of when using them. Tommy from Ayr asks the guys If Scotland gets independence do they think the current legistlation governing knives will get tougher. The fellas talks about what they think might happened and where they see current legistlation moving. Simon from Antwerp has noticed that the past time of bush crafting in Europe is more of a way of life than a weekend hobby and it seems to be more popular in mainland Europe than in the UK. He asks given that in many ways the UK is similar in heritage and environment why do the guys think the we aren’t more in touch with the land than our neighbours. The guys agree with Simon and talk about why that may be the case. Tomo a instructor at the MOD SERE school in Cornwall asks about the Dartmoor knife we tested in the early days of Sumo Survival and If it lived up to the expectations compared to its price.  Sy shares his thoughts about and the alternative buying options available. The guys also chat over the recent news of the massive 51,000 waiting list for the Scouts and Girl Guides and how these organisations need the support of the nation as a whole to make sure kids get to enjoy the benefits that these and other youth groups provide. Sy shares his recent experience of foraging courses and his plan to learn more about this often overlooked skill. If you, your bushcraft school or your outdoor company would like to feature in a future episode of the Sumo Survival Bushcraft Podcast then please get in touch with us. Show Links Monica Wilde Foraging Workshops - https://monicawilde.com/wild-food-foraging-walks-workshops-scotland/ Dartmoor Knife - http://www.dartmoorknife.co.uk/ Scouts - http://scouts.org.uk/get-involved/

Episode 104 see Sean on his own this time and he answers more of your questions that have been sent in to our website. Pete from Yorkshire asks for some advice on bushcraft books. Sean shares some titles from his bookshelf that have helped him learn new skills over the past years. Alan asks why outdoor trousers seem to be really expensive. Sean shares his experience of seeking the ideal pair of outdoor trousers and what to look for and what to avoid. Trevor from Cardiff asks about something we mentioned in the early days of Sumo Survival. Sean talks about 3D printing and the possible future advantages for the bush crafter. Sy catches up with Marlow from Wild Food UK and they April chat about foraging for food and what to be aware of when doing so.