Dear Black Bag Confidential Reader,
I know many people who are visual learners. It’s easier to grasp certain techniques and DIY projects if you can see what you should be doing.
That’s why this week, instead of the usual batch of must-read articles, I put together a list of must-watch videos. These short presentations cover a variety of survival skills and easy-to-build gadgets.
It’s important that you know how to go back to basics. Because when the SHTF, you might not have the luxury of many modern conveniences to help you perform even the simplest of everyday tasks.
So take a look.
1. Learn How to Pack the Perfect Bug-out Bag
Bug-out bag… go bag… 72-hour kit… As many names as there are for this essential piece of survival gear, there are even more opinions about what items should go in it.
Click on the link above for one man’s expert advice on how to pack the perfect go bag. But wait — what’s better than showing you how to put together this lifesaving pack? Sending you all the gear you’ll need!
That’s right. Through the SEAL Survival Box program, we’ll send you a box of SEAL-approved survival gear every month. Each box also contains a secret link to a video in which former Navy SEAL platoon commander Cade Courtley shows you exactly where to place each piece of equipment for ultimate accessibility.
Click here or on the link above to secure your membership in this incredible program.
2. The One Match Fire — Building a Basic Campfire
It’s all well and good to know how to build a fire with a plasma lighter, stormproof matches, Swedish Firesteel, fatwood and an array of kindling. But if push came to shove, would you be able to build a roaring fire with a single match?
In this short video produced by TrailAgain, Paul demonstrates how to successfully start a one-match fire. It’s much easier than you would think, but there is a specific technique to it.
Check it out and give it a try. This is a handy skill to have in a pinch. When it comes to survival, it’s always better to know how to do more with less.
3. Two EMP-Proof Generators You Can Assemble Yourself
With Russia’s recent announcement of a new-and-improved nuclear arsenal, the threat of an EMP blast disabling our power grid is more real than ever. I’ve covered a few ways to build a Faraday cage to protect critical electronics in previous issues, but how will you power those devices after the initial blast?
The PrepperProject has some great videos on a variety of survival topics. This one covers how to construct two types of EMP-proof generators. That way you have a way to run critical equipment — like power tools, medical devices or radios.
After you watch the presentation, be sure to visit their website for links to all the resources mentioned in the video.
4. Protect Your Perimeter With a DIY Trip Wire Alarm
There are a number of reasons why you might want to be notified of someone’s approach, whether you’re camping or hiking or it’s a SHTF situation. Frankly, there’s no better — or easier — way to set up an advanced warning system than this.
The video above, found on the SensiblePrepper channel, walks you through how to set up a simple perimeter alarm using surplus smoke grenade tops. This method is inexpensive and effective and you can reuse your homemade devices over and over again.
Click on the link to find out what four materials you’ll need and how to rig them for maximum efficiency. With this setup in place, you’ll never be caught by surprise by an unwelcome visitor.
5. How to Build a Rainwater Collection System
This four-minute video shows you how to set up a rainwater collection system step by step. It’s unbelievably easy. In fact, you could set it up on a Saturday afternoon and have a fresh supply of water on Sunday.
Collecting rainwater is a great way to reduce waste AND save money (if it’s legal in your area). You can use it to water your plants or wash your car… you could even use it as a source of drinking water in an emergency.
Just be sure you have a reliable water filter to filter out viruses and bacteria so it’s safe for your family to consume. My go-to survival filter is the SurvFilter. This filter has been tested and proven to remove 99.99% of contaminants. Plus, each filter insert lasts for 250 gallons before needing to be replaced. Click here to see the SurvFilter in action.
Stay safe,
Jason Hanson
