What Is a Survival Knife? 

A survival knife is an essential piece of outdoor gear for anyone who enjoys camping, hiking, or other outdoor activities. It is a multi-purpose tool that can be used in a wide variety of situations, from building shelter to defending yourself. Unlike traditional knives, a survival knife is designed to be both lightweight and durable, as well as highly effective for tasks such as slicing, cutting, and chopping. In addition, many survival knives also feature additional tactical features such as a saw blade, fire starter, screwdriver, or sheath for easy carrying. With its combination of strength, versatility, and portability, a survival knife is an invaluable part of any outdoor enthusiast’s kit. 

The Benefits of Having a Survival Knife 

A survival knife is an essential piece of equipment for anyone venturing into the outdoors. Whether you’re going on a camping trip, a day hike, or a more intensive trek, having a quality, tactical survival knife in your gear kit is an invaluable asset. For starters, a survival knife can come in handy for cutting branches, slicing ropes, and cutting through thick brush and foliage. It can also be used to carve stakes, hammer pegs, and sharpen sticks. In more dire circumstances, it can be used as a makeshift weapon if needed. No matter the situation, it’s important to have a reliable knife with you at all times. Beyond its practical uses, a survival knife has great value as a source of comfort and safety. Knowing that you have the right tool on hand in case of an emergency gives you peace of mind. The right knife can provide both psychological and physical protection while out on the trail. There are many types of survival knives available, from basic fixed-blade models to more advanced folding knives with multiple blades. When selecting a knife for outdoor activities, look for one that is sturdy and well-balanced, with a good ergonomic handle for comfortable use. Be sure to check local laws and regulations regarding knives before making a purchase. When heading out on your next outdoor adventure, make sure to pack a quality tactical survival knife. It will provide many benefits and will give you the confidence you need when facing unexpected challenges in the wilderness. 

How to Choose the Right Survival Knife

When it comes to choosing a survival knife, it's important to pick one that is up to the task and will help you in any situation you may find yourself in. For example, the Surviv-All Survival Knife from StatGear is an excellent choice for a quality survival knife. This knife has many features that make it ideal for the outdoors. The Surviv-All Survival Knife features a full tang, drop point 440 stainless steel blade that is black powder coated and razor sharp. The rubber-textured handle provides a comfortable and secure grip with a heavy-duty belt sheath for convenient carrying. This knife also has additional features such as an integrated fire starter and glass breaker. The fire starter is made from magnesium alloy and can be used to start fires in any condition. The glass breaker is made from tungsten steel and is perfect for breaking windows in an emergency situation. Overall, the Surviv-All Survival Knife from StatGear is a great choice for anyone looking for a reliable, high-quality survival knife. It has all the features you need to ensure you are ready for any outdoor situation. Whether you're camping, hunting, or just want a reliable knife for your bug-out bag, the Surviv-All is a great option.

1) Building a Shelter

Having a quality survival knife is essential when camping and spending time outdoors. One of the most important uses for a survival knife is to help build a shelter. The knife can be used to cut poles and branches for a frame, tie rope to secure the structure and even whittle stakes to keep the shelter from blowing away in windy conditions. Additionally, a survival knife can be used to cut pieces of fabric or tarp to create a waterproof covering. No matter the environment, a good survival knife will help you build the right type of shelter for your needs.

2) Preparing Food

Having a survival knife on hand is essential when camping or outdoors. It can be used to prepare food in various ways, including slicing and cutting up fruits, vegetables, and even some types of meat. It can also be used to make skewers for roasting over a campfire, and to sharpen sticks to make spears for fishing. Additionally, the blade can be used to open cans and other containers so that food can be cooked or eaten. The durability of a good quality survival knife makes it perfect for long-term outdoor use.

3) Cutting Firewood

Firewood is a necessary resource when camping, especially if you are in an area where there isn’t easy access to gas or electricity. Having a quality survival knife on hand can make the task of collecting and preparing firewood much easier. A good survival knife will have a strong, durable blade that can easily cut through small logs, branches, and twigs. This will not only save you time but also energy since you won’t have to exert as much force to chop wood. When selecting a knife for cutting firewood, look for a model with a thick, strong blade and a comfortable handle.

4) Making Tools

A survival knife is an essential tool for making other tools. You can use it to craft spears, clubs, fishing spears, and other weapons or tools that you might need in a survival situation. A knife can be used to sharpen branches for spear points, cut off bark for bow staves, and even split wood for fire kindling. With some ingenuity, you can craft almost anything out of natural materials with the help of a sharp and sturdy knife. For instance, a flat piece of wood and a few pieces of vine can be tied together to form an improvised fishing net. As long as you have the right materials and the skill to shape them, your survival knife can be used to create whatever tools you might need in an emergency.

5) Defending Yourself

When it comes to being in the wilderness, being prepared to defend yourself is a must. A survival knife is the perfect tool for this task. With its sharp blade and ergonomic handle, you can use it to ward off predators or attackers. If you’re in a pinch, you can even use your knife as a spear by attaching it to a pole. This will give you a range advantage against anything that threatens your safety. Additionally, knives are great for self-defense training and honing your reflexes so you can be prepared for any situation. With practice, you can learn how to use your knife as an effective weapon in a defensive situation.

Surviv-All Survival Knife

The Surviv-All Survival Knife from StatGear is the perfect tool for outdoor adventures and survival situations. With a full tang, drop point blade made of high carbon 440 stainless steel, this knife is strong and durable. The rubber-textured handle ensures a comfortable and secure grip, while the stainless steel pommel at the bottom of the handle can be used for hammering or breaking things. The heavy-duty belt sheath that comes with the knife includes a fire starter rod and cord cutter, making it convenient for minor cuts without having to take the knife out. The rear of the sheath also features an integrated knife sharpener stone.

The knife handle is secured to the sheath with the patent-pending para-secure paracord handle strap, ensuring that the knife stays in place even during the toughest of outdoor adventures. Whether you're camping, hiking, hunting, or facing any survival situation, the Surviv-All survival knife is an essential tool that you can rely on. It is designed to provide superior strength and durability, while being lightweight and easy to carry.

Whether you are preparing food, cutting firewood, building a shelter, making tools, or defending yourself, the Surviv-All Survival Knife is up to the challenge. With its innovative design and superior construction, it is sure to make your next outdoor adventure one to remember.

Surviv-All Survival Knife - StatGear (statgeartools.com)

The Different Types of Knife Blades

When it comes to knives, there is a wide range of types to choose from. The type of blade you choose will depend on the task you are trying to accomplish, but the most popular types are the drop point, clip point, tanto point, and spear point. All these blades are typically made of steel and come in a variety of sizes.

• Straight blades are just that: straight edges along the entire length of the blade. Straight blades are great for slicing through softer materials like fruits and vegetables, as well as boneless cuts of meat.
• Serrated blades have saw-like edges along the length of the blade and are primarily used for cutting through harder materials like hard bread crusts and rope. These blades tend to stay sharper longer than other shapes.
• Drop Point: A drop point blade is one of the most popular and widely used designs. It features a convex curve that drops from the spine of the blade toward the tip. This design creates a strong and durable tip that can be used for a variety of tasks such as piercing, cutting, and slicing.
• Clip Point: A clip point blade has a concave curved portion near the tip that creates a sharp point. This design is often used for precision cutting and slicing tasks. It is also a great choice for skinning game or other activities that require a sharp point.
• Tanto Point: A tanto point blade features a flat grind with a reinforced tip. This design is perfect for piercing and other heavy-duty tasks that require extra strength and durability.
• Spear Point: A spear point blade is similar to a drop point but with an additional symmetrical double-edged tip. This type of blade is ideal for stabbing and thrusting tasks, as well as precision cutting.

The Most Common Blade Materials

When it comes to choosing the right blade for your knife, one of the most important decisions to make is the type of material that you would like your blade to be made out of. There are many different types of materials available and each has its own unique characteristics that make it suitable for a specific purpose. Some of the most common materials used to make blades are:

No matter what type of material you decide on for your knife blade, it is important to do your research and find the right one for your needs. By considering the features of each type of blade material and making sure it suits your needs, you can ensure that you make the best possible decision when it comes to selecting a blade material for your knife.

A pocket knife is a versatile tool.

When it comes to everyday carry items, pocket knives are one of the most essential and practical tools you can have on hand. From tactical models used by first responders to samurai-style blades from StatGear, a pocket knife can be an invaluable asset. Not only can it help you with mundane tasks like opening packages and cutting rope, but it can also be used for self-defense and even survival. With its versatility and portability, it’s no wonder why the pocket knife is such an important item for many people.

A pocket knife can help you make quick work of many tasks.

Whether you opt for a classic Swiss Army knife, a tactical folding pocket knife, a samurai style pocket knife, or other model from StatGear, having a pocket knife in your arsenal of tools is incredibly useful. Pocket knives are great for making quick work of everyday tasks, from opening stubborn packages to cutting rope and cordage. With a pocket knife on hand, you can take care of most tasks quickly and easily. Whether you need to cut through something or pry open a package, having a pocket knife is essential for completing many tasks with speed and efficiency.

A pocket knife can be used as a self-defense tool.

Pocket knives are small and lightweight, making them easy to carry in your pocket or bag. In addition to being useful for everyday tasks, they can also be used as a self-defense tool in a pinch. In situations where you don’t feel safe, having a pocket knife on hand can give you a sense of security. If you ever find yourself in an emergency situation, you can use the knife to make a quick escape. A pocket knife can also be used to ward off potential attackers by keeping the blade pointed outwards towards them. By carrying a pocket knife with you at all times, you can give yourself a much needed edge in dangerous situations.

A pocket knife can help you start a fire.

A pocket knife can be a great asset when you need to start a fire. It can help you scrape tinder, kindling and other materials that you need to get a flame going. You can use the blade to shave pieces of wood, which will make it easier to light them and create a fire. You can also use the knife to cut and shape wood into sticks or logs to burn. And, if you have a flint and steel kit, you can use the backside of the blade as a striking tool to ignite your tinder. A pocket knife is an indispensable tool when starting a fire in the wild.

A pocket knife can help you cut cordage and rope.

Cordage and rope are useful for a variety of tasks, from tying items together to creating shelter or even fishing. Carrying a pocket knife ensures you have the tool necessary to cut through these materials quickly and easily. A good quality pocket knife will also have a sharp blade that can easily slice through cordage and rope without fraying the fibers. Having a pocket knife on hand means that you'll always be prepared for whatever task you may need to accomplish. This can be especially helpful in emergency situations where access to a larger knife may be limited.

A pocket knife can help you build shelter.

Having a pocket knife in your possession can help you build emergency shelter, should the need arise. With a pocket knife, you can cut down small branches and boughs to create the framework for your shelter. The sharp blade will also be useful for splitting wood for firewood and other materials that can be used for shelter construction. In addition, you can use the knife to strip bark and create rope or cordage. This can be used to lash the branches together, allowing you to create a sturdy shelter quickly and easily.

A pocket knife can help you catch food.

Carrying a pocket knife can be especially beneficial when it comes to food procurement. Many outdoor tasks such as scaling fish or cleaning game animals require a sharp blade, and a pocket knife can provide the perfect tool for the job. With a pocket knife, you can also quickly process fruits, vegetables, and other edibles. Additionally, pocket knives can also be used to build snares, traps, and fishing spears that can help you catch fish, small game animals, or even insects. In some cases, these items can even be used as weapons against larger predators that threaten your food supply. No matter what type of food you're trying to catch, having a pocket knife can make the task much easier.

A pocket knife can help you signaling for help.

When you are in a survival situation, you may need to signal for help. One of the most useful tools for this is a pocket knife. By using the reflective surface of the blade and sunlight, you can create an SOS signal that can be seen from miles away. This can be done by holding the pocket knife in front of your face and angling it towards the sun. The sunlight will then reflect off the blade, creating a bright beam of light that can be seen from far away. Additionally, if you have any kind of tinder on hand, you can use your pocket knife to strike a spark, creating a smoke signal that can be seen even further away than the light signal. Signaling for help with a pocket knife can help you be found quickly and safely in an emergency.

A pocket knife can help you defend yourself against animals.

Having a pocket knife can be an invaluable asset when facing animal predators in the wild. While it may not be enough to deter larger animals, it can be used to ward off smaller creatures like coyotes and snakes. The sharp edges of a pocket knife can help keep animals at bay, while its sharp point can be used to scare them off or even injure them if necessary. It is important to remember that any defensive action against an animal should be taken as a last resort and used only when your life is in danger. A pocket knife is a useful tool for defending yourself from animals, but should never be used in any other way.

Introducing the NEW Pocket Samurai EDC Knife 

The highly popular Pocket Samurai by StatGear has now been upgraded with a full-size edition for the ultimate Everyday Carry (EDC) knife. With its D2 Steel Tanto blade for sharpness, ball bearing flipper for quick open, liner lock for security, G10 scales, deep carry pocket clip, and 4mm lanyard loop, this is sure to be an instant classic. No matter if you’re an outdoor enthusiast, construction worker or just looking for a reliable EDC knife, the NEW Pocket Samurai by StatGear is perfect for all. 

These upgrades make the Pocket Samurai EDC Knife from StatGear the perfect Everyday Carry Knife. The Pocket Samurai EDC Knife is incredibly lightweight and pocket-friendly too. It weighs only 2.7 ounces and has a 4” handle and 3” blade. If you're in the market for an Everyday Carry knife, look no further than the upgraded Pocket Samurai EDC Knife from www.statgeartools.com

When it comes to EDC (everyday carry) knives, it’s important to find one that is both versatile and durable. The Pocket Samurai EDC Knife is a great tool to have in your everyday carry arsenal. With its sharp blade and secure lock mechanism, you can trust that this knife won’t let you down when it comes to cutting tasks like opening packages, food preparation, and even self-defense in a pinch. Its lightweight design and deep carry pocket clip make it easy to transport and access quickly if needed. Aside from practical uses, the Pocket Samurai EDC Knife also makes for an attractive and stylish addition to your collection of EDC items. 

Whether you’re looking for a reliable knife to take with you on outdoor excursions or a sleek piece to add to your daily routine, the Pocket Samurai EDC Knife is an excellent choice. It's not only efficient, but also looks quite impressive with its tasteful design. Not to mention, its solid construction ensures that it will last you a long time, no matter how hard you use it. So if you're looking for a dependable EDC knife that'll serve you faithfully, look no further than the Pocket Samurai EDC Knife - it's sure to be a great companion to accompany you wherever life takes you. From its top-notch materials to its eye-catching aesthetics, this knife has everything you need in an EDC tool. What's more, the Pocket Samurai EDC Knife is affordably priced so you don't need to break the bank in order to get yourself a good quality EDC knife. So don't wait any longer - get yourself the upgraded Pocket Samurai today and start experiencing all its features right away! Pocket Samurai Full Size Edition - StatGear (statgeartools.com)

Being provided with the knowledge and the answers you need are essential when it comes to purchasing the right EDC knife that meets your exact needs.

This blog post is a collaboration with one of our distributors in the UK, Heinnie Haynes, who is going to go through a complete guide on how you can find the right everyday carry knife, as well as answering those ever looming questions you have that might be stopping you from taking the leap of faith and purchasing your desired knife!

Firstly, What Is An EDC Knife?

‘EDC’ simply stands for - “Every Day Carry.” And, as the name states, an everyday carry knife is a practical and functional knife which is complete in a reduced size, so it is easy to carry around, but still large enough for full effect on diverse tasks.

*Also, if you are a UK reader, you need to be aware that there are certain rules and regulations in place, one example being that they need the blade to be under 3 inches in length. If you are a UK reader interested in purchasing an EDC knife, then feel free to read the full guidelines, here.

Now, let's take a look at the characteristics you need to consider for your desired EDC knife.

Dimensions

When looking at the exterior dimensions of your desired knife, it 100% depends on your own preferences and how you intend to use your knife.

There is a large range out there, so you need to take the time to pick the perfect one, whether that being a bigger and heavier knife, or something that is smaller, lightweight and easier to carry. The choices are limitless. For instance, StatGear has the Ausus, a premium micarta EDC knife that's on the larger side, and they also have the Pocket Samurai, a much smaller EDC knife that can fit on your keychain! It's all about preferences.

The end goal is to find a balance of a knife that fits perfectly in your pockets and your hand, because if you have an EDC knife that is too big or too small, it could mean you're not getting the best out of your knife. You can check out StatGear's wide range of EDC knives here.

Weight

It is recommended that your every day carry knife should be lightweight, because not many people realize, but the difference between a couple of grams may not sound big, but in terms of carrying it around for hours, it really does add up the benefits when you choose a lighter option.

However, don't just keep in mind that the lightest choice is the best, as we all have different preferences on what lightweight is to us. Also, in terms of material, aluminum may be lighter and save weight, steel is stronger, and then titanium is extremely strong, but will cost a more.

Before you purchase, make sure that you compare weights of different models, and the carry on researching after you have found your perfect carry requirements.

Blade Materials

Without a doubt, there is a wide array of steels to choose from out there, and in an instance of choosing a blade material, we would highly recommend you going for a type of steel, plus for a UK legal EDC knife, it needs to be around 99% of the time, a steel blade.

As you would imagine, each type of steel has its own benefits and disadvantages, which can include resistance to corrosion, strength, edge retention, cost, and more. In many scenarios, it does actually come down to cost, as the best quality knives and most durable steels tend to be more expensive.

But do remember, there is no such thing as a right or wrong steel, just some can be better than others. You can check out this great guide for a break down on knife steels while gaining a more in-depth look. 

Handle Materials

When it comes to the decision process of finding your perfect EDC knife handle, you need to consider durability, strength, grip and also the aesthetics.

At Heinnie, we have found that knives which actually have organic handle materials seem to have much more aesthetic appeal to the population, but other grips may feel more comfortable for you.

When looking at the broad range of materials, they can range from exotic rainforest hardwoods and brass, to metal and even animal bone!

Gear

If you are looking to perfect your EDC setup, then you need to purchase amazing gear to go with it! StatGear provides a fantastic range of gear for you to choose from, including tactical pens and sheaths. You can find the perfect finishing touch to your collection here.

We hope this helps you on the journey to finding your perfect EDC knife, but do make sure to do your majority of research online and stay safe.

- Heinnie Haynes.

For most of us, summer is already in full force, and hopefully you have more opportunity to go out and explore beyond your normal boundaries! We wanted to help kickstart your summer with some awesome EDC kits. We choose these kits to keep you covered all summer long. 

The 5 EDC kits we’ll cover are:

• The StatGear Classic - a EDC kit designed with our favorite items this summer.
• The Outdoorsman - made for the nature lover who will be outside all summer.
• The Minimalist - for the carrier who just wants the essentials.
• The Social Distancer - created for the carrier ready to take on our post-quarantine life.
• The Classy Friday Carry - for the enjoyer of life, who still wants to be handy when necessary.

The Statgear Classic

• The Hygiene Hand - is made completely from brass which is antimicrobial. This tool offers you a germ-free way to open doors and use shared surfaces like the ATM or checkout.
• Pocket Samurai - is a beautiful thin blade small enough to fit on your keychain. This small knife still packs a powerful punch and is made with rust-proof metal. It's also available in 6 colors!
• Chrome Bottle Opener - makes another great addition to your keychain. Our sleek opener can make sure you come in handy at the right moment.
• SwissQlip - adds to your light, but powerful summer EDC kit. This clip allows you to attach your multi-tools right to your belt or pocket. Compatible with most 91mm Swiss Army Knife models.

The Outdoorsman

• The Proper Slip - is a leather EDC organizer offering a durable place to keep your knives and tools. It’s a small convenient way to keep everything in one place, and still stand-up to the outdoor’s demands.
• Drop Brass Flashlight - is a titanium flashlight weighing in at only 1.2 ounces. It offers a very bright light, while remaining easier to carry. Great when it gets dark out there...
• Spyderco Para 3 - another small, yet powerful tool measuring 2.95 inches. This is an extremely pocket friendly knife. Ready to take on all sorts of outdoor adventures.

The Minimalist

• Wesen TI Microblade - is only 2.25 inches when closed, and contains a 1.5 inch blade with AUS8 heat treated steel. It’s a beautiful knife that you won’t even notice is there...until you need it.
• Hatori Super Mini Flashlight - is only a little bigger than your finger, but still gives off 150 lumens. The battery lasts about two hours which is perfect for the minimalist. Did we mention it’s water-proof?

The Social Distancer

• Benchmade Bugout - a great stainless steel blade, easy to fold up and place in your pocket. It’s made strong, and comes with a life-time warranty.
• Zippo - a solid, well-made, and consistent lighter. What else is there to say?
• Trayvax 2.0 Wallet - another item made to stand the test of time. It’s a military-grade metal wallet, and comes subtly intertwined with a paracord.
• EKLOEN Portable Solid Brass EDC Pocket Pen - a brass pen meant to offer you a germ-free way to write and sign. It looks great, and is made with EDC in mind.
• Rovyvon aurora a1 - a rechargeable flashlight giving off a very bright 650 lumens. It has a hidden strobe mode designed to help you in case of emergency.
• Purell Hand Sanitizer Portable - a no brainer. A small Purell goes a long way, and is always extremely easy to carry.
• Apple Airpods - if used properly, they can help you live a more touch-free life.

The Classy Friday Carry

• Fisher Space Pen - a sleek pen able to write at any angle, even zero gravity. It’s made of brass and made to last.
• Kizer Folding Pocket Knife - designed to be a classy titanium folding knife. It rocks ball bearings for a quick clean blade transition.
• Pocket Travelers Notebook - meant to be a small field journal, however you can use this small leather journal to write down all your classy thoughts.
• Victorinox Swiss Army Multi-Tool (Gold) - a classic tool that can handle almost anything. Get it in gold to go with your classy Friday vibe!
• Timex Expedition Scout 40 Watch - a stunning watch with a cream dial and your choice of a nylon or leather strap. It's water-resistant, and ready for all the pool-splashing you got!

We hope our lists motivated you to start designing your own EDC kit! Have a happy summer!

Quarantine has been an especially good reminder that we can intentionally build new habits. We’ve seen first hand that we can quickly adapt, and that we have to adapt. Our health and wellbeing is more important than ever during this Covid-19 pandemic, so we want to keep encouraging you to rise to the challenge this lockdown has forced upon us. We are going to share a few workouts that you can do from home.

Workouts Made for Quarantine

These workouts were chosen because they do not require equipment - ANYONE can do them. We also broke up our recommended exercises into 3 different workouts. These 3 workouts can be completed in circuits. Circuit training is a style of working out where you cycle through several exercises, so you can choose to repeat one of these workout circuits multiple times, or go through all the circuits one time through.

Of course you can mix and match the exercise to how you see fit. You can even add some more exercises into the mix based on your preference and available equipment. The main goal is to get an effective workout in minimal space and with minimal equipment. We hope these workouts encourage you to get more active during quarantine, or at least give you some more workouts to choose from!

Workout #1

1. Low to High Plank

• Begin starting in plank position with your hands shoulder-width apart and toes evenly spread behind you.
• Next, move your extended arms so that both your elbows are now evenly on the ground. Move one arm at a time.
• After you have both elbows on the ground in plank position, raise back up into plank position with extended arms. Move one arm at a time.
• Keep moving through this range of motion for 45 seconds.

2. Burpees

• Start in a plank position.
• Do a push-up, and then jump your back feet forward toward your hands.
• Following this motion jump up, and bring your legs high off the ground.
• Land on both feet, plant your hands, and extend both your legs back behind you to get back into plank position.
• Repeat this cycle 20 times.

3. Side Raise Crunches

• Start in a side plank position with your elbow on the ground.
• Remaining in the side plank sink your lowest hip and core toward the ground.
• Then raise your side core up until you are back in your starting position.
• Repeat 25 times on each side.

4. Leg Flutters

• Begin laying flat on your back with your hands at your side.
• Raise both legs off the ground. Position one leg straight off the ground, and the other leg slightly above.
• Rotate your legs to alternate between these two positions.
• Repeat for 45 seconds.

Workout #2

1. Arm Circles

• Start standing up with your arms held out straight at your side.
• Move your arms in small circles going clockwise.
• As you continue, begin making larger circles with your arms.
• Keep your arms moving for 45 seconds. Then repeat moving counter clockwise.

2. Explosive Push-Ups

• Start in a push-up position.
• Begin doing a push-up moving downward.
• Explode on the way up, jumping with your hands, so that they come off the ground.
• Land in the starting position, and repeat 25 times.

3. Alternating Mountain Climbers

• Start in a plank position.
• One leg at a time, move your leg to touch your elbow on the opposite side.
• Move your leg back to full plank position, and then repeat that moment on the other side.
• Cycle through this motion as much as you can for 45 seconds.

4. Boat Hold

• Start laying flat on your back. Then position yourself with your back slightly off the ground.
• Next raise your feet off the ground, and extend your arms forward. 
• Hold for as long as you can.

Workout #3

1. Tricep Dips

• Find a stable support on which you can prop yourself up. (Bed, couch, bench, etc)
• Put your hands on the support behind you, and position yourself so your butt is just off the support.
• Bend your arms to allow yourself to dip below the support. 
• Raise back to the starting position, and repeat 25 times.

2. Decline Pushups

• Find a stable support. Then, position yourself with your feet on the support and your hands on the ground.
• Remaining in this position, complete a push-up.
• Repeat 25 times.

3. Squats

• Start in a standing position.
• Reach your arms out forward or place them on your head.
• Move your body into a hovering sitting position.
• Raise back up, and repeat this motion 25 times.

4. Vertical Toe Touches

• Start laying flat on your back. Then position yourself with your back slightly off the ground.
• Next raise your feet off the ground.
• Then crunch your core to allow your hands to touch your toes. 
• Repeat 20 times.

These are just 12 exercises that you can easily do from home. They don’t require any equipment, but can still seriously improve your health. Quarantine has afforded all of us a lot more time at home. We hope that you use this time to take care of yourself and your loved ones. One of the best things you can do for everyone is to work on your own wellness. Exercising can improve how you look, feel, and act. Bring some peace to your home and yourself through exercising at home! We hope you love these exercises, and feel more motivated to take health actions during quarantine. Let us know how these at-home exercises go for you!

We call these Everyday Carry items. The term Everyday Carry refers to selected items an individual wears on them each day. In other words, a set of tools that are easy to carry and always come in handy. This same thinking can be applied to outdoor gear. You can make an Everyday Carry set that is useful no matter what you’re doing outdoors. If you’re new to Everyday Carry or need help picking the best outdoor gear, look no further. We put together a few items that are both easy to carry and have a ton of utility outdoors.

1. Survival Knife

When preparing for the outdoors, you need to prepare for the worst, first. You need to ask yourself what risks you might encounter? Then, ask what’ll you need to feel comfortable if you encounter them? In most cases, carrying a tactical knife can be sufficient. Things like a bear spray can be added to your backpacking kit, but no matter where you go a solid knife is relevant. The Surviv-All Survival Knife is not just a tactical knife, it’s an optimized Everyday Carry item. This knife comes with a fire rod starter, paracord, and sharpener. This knife is a great example of an item that fulfills multiple outdoor uses.

2. Paracord Bracelet

Paracords are an easy to wear item that can come in handy many ways. Because paracord is immensely strong, it can be used for hundreds of things. Some of the most relevant to the outdoors include: fishing line, making a bow drill, hanging tents, clothes or tarps, acting as a sling, fire kindling, and of course many many more options. Paracords are an easy add to your outdoor collection. The only hard part is remembering all the ways you can use it during your next outdoor trip.

3. Canteen / Water Filter

Yeah, believe it or not water is important. Very important. Choosing a quality canteen is necessary for any outdoor adventure. Not only is it the sustainable option, it’s the most effective. Canteens keep your water cool, rationed, and can even endure a few bumps. We recommend finding a water bottle that also acts as a water filter. This way you can truly take this bottle anywhere. A filtered canteen is a highly powerful tool to survive and thrive outdoors.

4. Swiss Army / All-Purpose Tool

An all-purpose tool or Swiss Army knife always comes in handy...that’s kind of the point. Although, their true power is even more clear while outdoors. There are plenty of all-purpose tools out there. Some more durable than others. Choose a tool that has a variety of functions you could see yourself using. We recommend adding a kydex sheath. These sheaths allow you to clip your all-purpose tool right onto your belt or designated area. This allows for greater ease of use, and it will protect your multitool.

5. All in One Items

All-in-one items are great because they intentionally combine a variety of items into one convenient tool. There are plenty of all-in-one tools out there catered toward outdoor needs. A few common items included in these tools are: waterproof matches, compasses, whistles, fire starters, flashlights, and maybe even some first aid items. Usually, you can find all these items packaged into one small, light-weight tool. However, there are more durable options out there. Take a look around, and find the perfect one for your kit and your activity level.

Everyday Carry items and outdoor gear are a perfect match. They both focus on what’s useful, what can be optimized, and what’s easy to carry. Hopefully these 5 essential items are enough inspiration to get you going. The possibilities are truly endless, but that’s what makes it so fun. We hope you have fun preparing your kit, and getting ready for your next outdoor adventure. If you have any questions about Everyday Carry items to add to your kit, please reach out to the StatGear team!

At StatGear we design products for rescue and survival, so we thought it’d be appropriate to share some tactical skills. These are skills that can be learned at home, but used anywhere. The importance of being prepared is especially apparent nowadays. These skills were picked to help you feel more confident in uncertain situations. We’ll cover a range of topics to seriously step up your tactical game!

1. First Aid and Rescue Techniques

Just by taking some time at home, you can learn how to save lives. There are a plethora of online resources for learning first aid skills. In fact, there may be so much information that learning first aid can seem intimidating. So we wanted to highlight a few skills that can have a huge impact. The first of these is CPR. CPR stands for cardiopulmonary resuscitation. The main goal of CPR is keep someone’s blood flow active until medical services arrive. At that point they can use some additional techniques if needed to fully revive the individual. The basics of CPR can be easily learned through any online video or blog. However, taking the time to practice and truly understand what is required is vital to good technique. This way you can be confident on both when and where to perform CPR.

The Heimlich maneuver is used to clear a blocked airway. This technique helps dislodge the item to help the individual's breathing return. The Heimlich maneuver is primarily one gesture pulled upward. If you have some friends or family in quarantine with you, practice with each other. Of course, don’t apply full pressure, but placement is key with the Heimlich. So, use this time to learn it right. The last rescue skill we’ll highlight is auto rescue. A lot of auto rescue skills should be left to trained professionals, however there are some ways to be better prepared if you find yourself in need of rescue. We would recommend looking up self-rescue techniques like breaking windows, relevant first aid, and underwater scenarios. In some of these situations you may be required to know how to use tools to break glass or save yourself. It’s for these exact scenarios that we designed the T3 Tactical Auto Rescue Tool. We designed the T3 to break car windows and swiftly cut seatbelts. We also designed the Auto First Aid Kit to give you medical supplies as needed. See what tools you need, and let us know if we can help. All of these rescue skills are relatively easy to learn, and can be learned from home. We think it’s worth the time to be ready to save a life!

2. Build Your Everyday Carry Set

Everyday Carry is the term used to describe the set of items an individual carries on them for daily use. However, the Everyday Carry community pushes this idea further by looking to optimize their tools for their lifestyle. We wrote an entire Introduction to Everyday Carry if you want to learn more. Building your Everyday Carry set requires thinking about what you need, and then taking the time to see what is available. There are a ton of options to add to your setup. Part of the fun is choosing the perfect items. Especially, if you can find one tool that covers multiple functions. If you want some inspiration before you dive in, read our article on Building an Everyday Carry Kit for Covid-19!

3. Finding and Preserving Food

Learning about finding and growing food can be both a tactical skill and a fun hobby. We can look to our earth for food and water. Whether we are out hiking or surviving an apocalypse, knowing how to forage is a wonderful gift. Foraging entails hunting for herbs, vegetables, fruits, and more out in nature. There are many books, blogs, and videos on foraging. The most important aspects are to find resources for where you specifically live or want to forage. Also hone in one what you want to forage for first. For example you could start with tea, fruit, or mushrooms. Each of these require their own bit of studying, but we can promise it is worth it. Finding an edible batch of berries or brewing some fresh mint makes the investment worth it.

If you want to stick to home base, gardening is a great choice. Seeds, soil, and plants are a cheap investment with a high reward. You can harvest seeds after growing your initial plants, which makes gardening sustainable and affordable. Depending on your space you may need to look into different techniques. If you are in a small space, we’d recommend looking into microgreens, hydroponics (aquaponics), and herb gardens. These are small scale gardens that can produce a lot of output. If you have some outdoor space to work with, the whole playbook is open to you. Look into what works well with your climate and soil, and plant accordingly. If need be you can always learn about composting. Composting helps to create nutrient rich soil yourself. These techniques are enjoyable ways to produce food, but at the same time they can serve a tactical purpose in times of need.

4. Understanding Self Defense

Self-defense is a fundamental skill in your tactical toolbelt. Learning about self-defense can help you feel more confident in risky situations. Research and practice will give you more ability to protect yourself and your loved ones. There are a variety of martial arts and techniques you can learn for self-defense. Some of these include jiu jitsu, muay thai, and boxing. We encourage you to look into the options, and determine what feels right for you. You won’t be able to fully train without an experienced teacher and gym. What is important is taking the time to research what’s out there. After seeing what looks right for you, you can begin to practice and study. Study the fundamentals and practices you can do at home. By doing this you will feel more prepared and confident to sign up for gym later on. You will also pick up some valuable lessons and techniques you can bring into your life no matter what. If you would like to read more about how to dive into Self-Defense you may like 3 Ways to Feel More Confident About Self-Defense.

5. Outdoor Survival Skills

Even indoors you can prepare for the outdoors. There are a few core skills you can learn from your home that you can easily apply next time you are outdoors. A great example of this is learning how to navigate without a compass (or phone). There are a variety of techniques to navigate effectively which also teach you some cool things about the outdoors. You can learn to identify the north star, read topological maps, or read moss for direction. These are great skills if you want to truly get into backpacking and hiking. They help you feel immersed in nature by allowing you to read its natural signs. No matter the pretense, navigation is a useful thing to learn up on. Another tactical, yet fun skill is learning to build natural shelters. There are a huge variety of techniques and materials you can use to build an outdoor shelter. You may get lost in all the cool shelter videos out there, so make sure to read up on the basics first. Look for information about where you are located, and what works best for your natural resources. It’s a really fascinating skill to read up on. It may even get you excited enough to plan an outdoor trip to try it out soon. Don’t forget to bring our Surviv-all Knife, if you need a knife for your outdoor next trip!

The last outdoor skill we’ll cover is building a fire without lighters. Not only can you enjoy a nice fire at home, you can learn a survival skill. Some techniques you can look into include a bow drill, fire plough, a two-man friction drill, and even flints. Fire is essentially survival skills when you are outdoors.

You now have 5 tactical areas you can research and practice while quarantined at home. We encourage you to dive into the topics and skills which called to you the most. We can promise each of these skills can help you tactically, but also benefit your daily life. Whether it's from new confidence, food, or knowledge, all of these skills have value beyond just surviving. Use this time at home to build your skills up and enjoy life.