Speir Outdoors

12/31/2024

How to Quickly Build a Tripod for Campfire Cooking


"Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and he will establish your plans." — Proverbs 16:3

Building something as simple and practical as a tripod for campfire cooking reminds us of the importance of preparation and dedication. When we commit our work to the Lord, even the smallest tasks can reflect His guidance and provision.

Steps to Build a Tripod:

1️⃣ Gather Your Materials:
Cut three straight sticks, each approximately the same length and as even as possible. These should be sturdy enough to support your cooking equipment.
Use cordage such as bank line or paracord to bind them together.

2️⃣ Align the Sticks:
Lay the three sticks flat on the ground with their tops aligned.

3️⃣ Tie the Cordage:
Use your cordage to loosely tie a loop around the tops of the three sticks. This does not need to be overly tight, as the next step will secure the tripod.

4️⃣ Flip and Tighten:
Stand the sticks upright. Take the middle stick and flip it 180 degrees. This motion will tighten the cordage, securing the tripod without the need for complex lashings.

5️⃣ Spread the Legs:
Adjust the legs evenly to form a stable tripod. Ensure it is balanced and able to support your cookware.

Uses for the Tripod:

Cooking Over Fire: Hang a pot for boiling water, soups, or stews.
Smoking or Slow Cooking: Suspend meat or fish to prepare hearty meals.
Utility Structure: Use it to hold gear, lanterns, or even as a support for a tarp or shelter.

Whether you're building a tripod, preparing a shelter, or crafting any tool, dedicating your work to the Lord invites His blessing into your efforts. Just as the tripod stands firm when its legs are aligned and secured, our plans are established when we commit them to Him.

Question for You:
What’s your favorite use for a campfire tripod? Share your tips and ideas in the comments below!

12/31/2024

Good morning!!

12/30/2024

As I walked through the woods, I came across a broken tree, its trunk split yet still alive. Something about it made me pause. I leaned in to examine the break, curious to see what caused it. Inside the crevice, I found a little frog, perfectly camouflaged. Had I not slowed down, I would have missed it entirely. It fit so well into its surroundings, it was almost invisible.

This reminded me of how many Christians live today—blending into the culture around us so seamlessly that no one even notices we follow Christ. We avoid standing out, fearful of rejection or judgment. But Jesus didn’t call us to blend in. He called us to stand out.

In Matthew 5:14-16, Jesus says:
“You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a basket. Instead, they set it on a stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in heaven.”

Jesus didn’t call us to hide our light or camouflage ourselves. Instead, we’re meant to be a beacon, shining brightly so others can see the truth and hope of Christ. Yet so often, we dim our light to avoid discomfort, blending in so well that our faith becomes invisible.

The Apostle Paul echoes this in Romans 12:2:
“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—His good, pleasing, and perfect will.”

To conform is to camouflage—to live in a way that mirrors the world’s values, actions, and priorities. But Paul reminds us that we’re called to be transformed, to live lives that reflect God’s will, not the world’s ways.

The little frog in the tree showed me how easy it is to settle into our comfort zones, hiding our faith. But as Christians, we are not called to comfort. We are called to courage. Standing out as a follower of Christ isn’t about being boastful or abrasive. It’s about living in such a way that others see Jesus through us.

So, let’s ask ourselves: Are we blending in so well that we’ve become invisible, or are we letting the light of Christ shine brightly through us? Let’s refuse to conform, commit to being transformed, and stand out in a world that desperately needs the hope only Jesus can bring.

12/30/2024

How to Tie a Buntline Hitch

"I led them with cords of human kindness, with ties of love." — Hosea 11:4

In the outdoors, an adequately secured shelter can make all the difference. This hitch is an essential knot for tightening guylines, providing a reliable and sturdy hold for your tarp or tent. It’s simple to tie, highly effective, and perfect for creating tension in your lines.

Steps to Tie the Buntline Hitch:

1️⃣ Wrap the Cord Around a Fixed Object:
Begin by wrapping the cord around your anchor point, such as a tree or pole.
Cross the cord's standing end over the working end to form what is known as a "crossing turn."

2️⃣ Create a Friction Noose:
Take the working end and pass it underneath the standing line, pulling it through to create a loop.

This loop forms a "friction noose," which allows for easy adjustment while holding tension.

3️⃣ Tighten the Knot:
Pull the working end firmly to cinch the hitch tight. The friction created by the crossing turn and noose will keep the line securely in place.

Why This Hitch Works:
This hitch holds exceptionally well because it uses friction to maintain tension, making it ideal for guylines. It’s adjustable, which allows you to easily fine-tune the tension on your shelter, ensuring it stays secure even in strong winds or heavy rain.

Tip:
Once the hitch is tightened, you can secure the free end with a simple half-hitch for added stability. This step isn’t always necessary but provides extra security in case of heavy strain on the line.

Question for You:
What’s your go-to knot or hitch for securing your shelter? Share your favorite techniques and tips in the comments below!

12/29/2024

How to Tie the Arbor Knot (Bushcraft Zip Tie)

"I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven; whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven." — Matthew 16:19

The Arbor Knot, also called the Canadian Jam Knot, Running Knot, or Bushcraft Zip Tie, is an essential knot with countless uses in the outdoors. Its strength and reliability make it perfect for securing fishing lines, tying down gear, or creating handles for tools like bucksaws. Here's a step-by-step guide to mastering this versatile knot.

Steps to Tie the Arbor Knot:

1️⃣ Create a Stopper Knot:
Start by tying an overhand knot at the working end of your cordage. This knot acts as a stopper to ensure your setup stays secure.

2️⃣ Wrap Around the Anchor:
Loop the working end of the cord around the object you’re tying to, such as a spool, pole, or gear.

3️⃣ Tie the Jam Knot:
Tie a second overhand knot around the standing line with the working end. This knot will "jam" under tension, locking it in place.

4️⃣ Tighten Securely:
Pull both the standing line and the working end tightly to cinch the knot around your anchor point.

Why Use the Arbor Knot?
The Arbor Knot, or Bushcraft Zip Tie, is simple yet incredibly strong. Whether you’re securing a load, tying fishing line, or improvising in a survival situation, this knot won’t let you down.

Other Names:

Canadian Jam Knot
Running Knot
Sliding Knot
Bushcraft Zip Tie

Question for You:
Have you used the Arbor Knot in your outdoor adventures? Share your favorite applications in the comments below!

12/28/2024

How to Build an A-Frame Shelter

"I will say of the Lord, 'He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.'" — Psalm 91:2

The A-Frame Shelter is a classic, offering excellent protection from both wind and rain. It's a step up from the Lean-To, making it ideal for harsher weather conditions. Here’s how to set one up using a tarp and ridgeline.

Materials You’ll Need:
- Tarp with tie-out points
- Ridgeline
- Prusik loops and toggles
- Stakes

Steps to Build the A-Frame Shelter:

1️⃣ Position the Tarp:
Lay the tarp lengthwise across the ridgeline, ensuring it’s centered for even coverage.

2️⃣ Secure the Tarp:
Attach the tarp to the ridgeline using prusik loops and toggles at both ends.
Pull the prusik loops tight to keep the tarp securely in place.

3️⃣ Stake Down the Corners:
Pull each corner of the tarp down to the ground and secure it with stakes.
Adjust the tension to ensure the tarp is taut and stable.

Why Choose the A-Frame Shelter?
The A-Frame provides better wind and rain protection than a Lean-To, making it an excellent choice for adverse weather. Its simplicity and efficiency make it a go-to shelter for many campers.

Question for You:
Have you tried the A-Frame setup? Share your favorite tips for staying dry and warm in the comments below!

12/27/2024

"For in the day of trouble He will keep me safe in His dwelling; He will hide me in the shelter of His sacred tent and set me high upon a rock." — Psalm 27:5

The Diamond Fly shelter is a versatile option, perfect for covering hammocks or providing extra ground coverage. Its unique diamond shape offers excellent protection from the elements while remaining easy to set up. Here's how to create one using a tarp and ridgeline.

Materials You’ll Need:
-Tarp with tie-out points
- Ridgeline
- Prusik loops and toggles
- Stakes

Steps to Build the Diamond Fly Shelter:

1️⃣ Position the Tarp:
Lay your tarp corner to corner over the ridgeline, forming a diamond shape.

2️⃣ Secure the Corners:
Attach the prusik loop through the tie-out points at each corner and secure with toggles. Pull the prusik loops tight to keep the tarp taut along the ridgeline.

3️⃣ Stake the Wings:
Take the two remaining corners of the tarp (the wings) and stake them securely into the ground.

Adjust the angle to ensure maximum coverage and wind resistance.

Why Choose the Diamond Fly Shelter?
This shelter provides extra coverage compared to other configurations and is great for protecting hammocks or setting up a cozy ground shelter.

Question for You:
Have you used the Diamond Fly setup before? Share your tips and tricks in the comments below!

12/26/2024

"He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty." — Psalm 91:1

The Lean-To shelter is one of the simplest and most effective ways to protect yourself from the elements while camping. It’s easy to set up, provides decent rain cover, shade, and can be positioned to block the wind. Here's a step-by-step guide to creating one using a tarp and a ridgeline.

Materials You’ll Need:
- Tarp with tie-out points
- Ridgeline
- Prusik loops and toggles (see previous posts)
- Stakes (sticks or commercial)

Steps to Build a Lean-To Shelter:
1️⃣ Set Up the Ridgeline:
Attach your ridgeline between two trees at your desired height, typically around shoulder level.

2️⃣ Attach the Tarp:
Start with one corner of your tarp. Insert the prusik loop through the tie-out point and secure it with a toggle.
Repeat on the other side of the tarp.
Pull the prusik loops until the tarp is taut along the ridgeline.

3️⃣ Stake the Corners:
Move to the back corners of your tarp, pull them tight to create the desired angle, and stake them into the ground.

4️⃣ Adjust for the Wind:
Position the tarp with the open side opposite the wind for maximum protection.

Why Choose a Lean-To Shelter?
The Lean-To is perfect for quick setups and provides excellent ventilation. It’s ideal for moderate weather and works well as a base for other shelter configurations.

Question for You:
What’s your go-to tarp shelter when camping? Share your favorites in the comments!

12/25/2024

My latest camping video just dropped!!

Join me and Ranger on an exciting overnight camping adventure by the beautiful Pearl River! 🏕️ Watch as we scout the perfect campsite, set up a tarp shelter...

12/25/2024

MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!

“And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, ‘Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; He is the Messiah, the Lord.’” — Luke 2:8-11

As we celebrate Christmas, the provision of food reminds us of God’s gifts—just as the shepherds in the fields witnessed His greatest gift, Jesus Christ. When venturing into the wild, food is a vital provision, ensuring energy and sustenance. Here’s a guide to managing food for your outdoor adventures.

Essentials of Outdoor Food
When camping, food plays two key roles: energy and comfort. Weight and preparation ease are critical. Whether you carry dehydrated, freeze-dried, or pre-packaged food, planning ensures you’ll stay nourished and ready for the challenges ahead.

Food Types
Dehydrated Food: Lightweight and versatile, dehydrated food is easy to make and lasts for months.

Example: Beef jerky—great for snacking or rehydrating in soups.
Veggies like tomatoes, squash, and mushrooms make excellent, healthy chips or soup additions.

Freeze-Dried Food: Retains texture and flavor better than dehydrated food. Perfect for pre-made meals but pricier.

Example: Freeze-dried chicken with rice for a complete, lightweight meal.

Just Add Water (JAW): Grocery store staples like mashed potatoes or instant rice are easy to cook and calorie-dense.

Pre-Packaged Foods: Items like summer sausage, tortillas, and peanut butter are portable and calorie-rich.

Peanut butter is an energy booster, while tortillas serve multiple meals without refrigeration.

Procured Foods: Hunting, fishing, and foraging can supplement your supplies. Always know how to safely identify edible plants and prepare game.

12/24/2024

For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any double-edged sword. It penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart." — Hebrews 4:12

A good knife is like God’s Word—powerful, precise, and reliable in any situation. When heading into the wilderness, a quality sheath or belt knife is the single most important tool you can carry. And the second? A backup knife. Whether cleaning fish, splitting firewood, or starting a fire, your knife will become your most-used tool. Here’s how to choose the best one for your adventures.

Types of Steel
Stainless Steel: Resistant to rust, durable, and holds an edge longer.

High-Carbon Steel: Stronger for rugged tasks like fire-starting and batoning but prone to rust.

Choose based on your needs: durability (stainless) or heavy-duty tasks (carbon).

Knife Tang
The tang is the blade’s extension into the handle.

Full Tang: Runs through the handle, providing strength for demanding tasks.
Partial Tang: Lighter and cheaper but less durable.
For camping, opt for a full tang knife that can handle abuse.

Knife Grind
The grind shapes the blade's cutting edge.

Scandi Grind: Excellent for carving and easy to sharpen.
Flat Grind: Versatile and simple to maintain.
Stick to these grinds for bushcraft and fieldwork.

Knife Spine
A sharp 90-degree spine is essential for striking ferro rods and making tinder shavings. Avoid knives with decorative ridges that hinder functionality.

Preventing Rust
Keep your knife dry and apply a small amount of oil to the blade. Remember, a trusty knife is a well-maintained knife!

12/23/2024

Thanks for being a top engager and making it on to my weekly engagement list! 🎉

Chris Chappell, Clay McDaniel, Geri-Laurin Grubbs, Cheryl Speir, Raven Rachal, Anita Palmer, Benward Treadaway

12/23/2024

Putting together a First aid kit:

"But a Samaritan, as he journeyed, came to where he was, and when he saw him, he had compassion. He went to him and bound up his wounds, pouring on oil and wine. Then he set him on his own animal and brought him to an inn and took care of him." — Luke 10:33-34

As a retired Air Force medic and former EMT, I’ve treated countless injuries in both everyday and extreme situations. From cuts to fractures, having a well-stocked first aid kit is crucial for any outdoor adventure. Here’s a guide to building your own kit and essential tips for wilderness preparedness.

Key First Aid Kit Items
A basic yet versatile first aid kit should include:

Pressure bandages
Gauze (rolls, pads, compressed)
Tourniquet
Hemostatic wound dressing (clotting agent)
Superglue (for minor cuts)
Elastic bandages
Adhesive bandages
Waterproof tape
Splinting material (e.g., SAM splint)
Moleskin (for blisters)
Alcohol pads, iodine solution
Pain relievers (Tylenol, ibuprofen)
Diphenhydramine (Benadryl) for allergic reactions
Tweezers, hemostats, sanitary wipes
Your kit should address common injuries like cuts, burns, and strains, while preparing for severe emergencies like broken bones or heavy bleeding.

Multipurpose Tools
Tampons & Feminine Pads: Use as pressure dressings or for fire-starting. Avoid inserting tampons into wounds. Alcohol prep pads start fires, and triple antibiotic helps start fires.

Duct Tape: Great for splinting, waterproofing, or even wound closure.

Hand Sanitizer & Alcohol Pads: Disinfect wounds or start a fire in emergencies.

First Aid Basics: The ABCs
Airway: Ensure it’s clear.
Breathing: Check for chest movement.
Circulation: Control bleeding or begin CPR if needed.

Pro Tips for Safety
Be Visible: Use a bright red bag for your kit, especially in remote areas.
Prepare for Hunting Seasons: Wear orange safety vests to avoid accidents.
Learn CPR and Wilderness First Aid: These skills could save a life.

12/22/2024

“In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your path.” — Proverbs 3:6

The compass is one of the oldest and most reliable tools for navigation. Unlike GPS, it doesn’t need batteries, satellites, or updates. It’s perfect for hiking, camping, or backcountry exploration. Here’s how to get started:

Key Compass Features:
Magnetized Needle: Always points to magnetic north, not true north. Check your map for declination to account for the difference.

Orienting Arrow: Helps align the compass with magnetic north to “box” the needle.

Travel Arrow: Shows the direction you’re traveling.

Azimuth Ring: Rotates 0–360° to help take bearings and set directions.
Using a Compass with a Map

1️⃣ Place Your Compass on the Map: Align the compass edge with your intended path.
2️⃣ Box the Needle: Rotate the azimuth ring to align the needle with the orienting arrow.
3️⃣ Align Map and Compass: Turn the map and compass together until the needle stays boxed.
4️⃣ Follow the Travel Arrow: This shows your direction—stay aligned to your bearing.

Taking a Bearing:
Find a landmark (like a tree or hill) in your travel direction.
Align your compass with the landmark, walk to it, and repeat for your next point.
Quick Tip: Practice these steps at home before heading out. For more in-depth navigation tips, check out Ethan Shaw’s “How To Use A Compass” on OutdoorsGenerations.com.

Question for You:
Have you ever used a compass for navigation? Share your stories or tips in the comments below!

12/21/2024

Nothing like walking up on this in the woods hunting!

Yea, it’s plastic but still.

12/21/2024

In Joshua 18:8-9, the men of Israel were sent to map the land, write its description, and return with their findings. They relied on observation, tools, and their trust in God to guide them. Similarly, reading topographic maps can be vital for any outdoor adventurer. Here's how to get started:

What Are Topographic Maps?
Topographic maps are essential for camping and hiking, offering a detailed view of the terrain. They display:

Elevation Contour Lines: Show the shape of the land—steep areas have closely spaced lines, while gradual slopes have wider spaces.

Geographic Features: Rivers, mountains, roads, and more.
In Joshua 18:8-9, the men of Israel were sent to map the land, write its description, and return with their findings. They relied on observation, tools, and their trust in God to guide them. Similarly, reading topographic maps can be a vital skill for any outdoor adventurer. Here's how to get started:
Scale and Legend: Help interpret distance and symbols.
You can download USGS topographic maps for free here: USGS Topoview Viewer.

How to Read a Topographic Map
1. Contour Lines
Close Lines = Steep Terrain
Far Lines = Gradual Slopes
Every fifth line is an index line showing elevation.
Example: If one index line reads 200 feet and the next is 150 feet, you'll descend 50 feet in elevation.

2. Map Legend
Different maps use different symbols.
Download and print the legend for USGS maps to familiarize yourself with the symbols for roads, rivers, trails, and more.

3. Map Scale
Found at the bottom of the map, e.g., 1:24,000.
1 inch = 24,000 inches in real life.

Use the scale and your compass edge or string to measure distances. For example, trace a riverbed on the map with string, then measure it against the scale for accurate travel distances.

Why Topographic Maps Matter
Growing up, I navigated with a Rand McNally road atlas on family trips. Maps guided us through highways and backroads, teaching me the importance of reading the terrain. Topographic maps do the same for the outdoors, helping you:

Visualize the land in 3D from a 2D map.
Plan your routes safely.
Navigate confidently without digital tools.

12/20/2024

How to Make an Adirondack Shelter with a Tarp

The Adirondack shelter, traditionally a three-sided log structure, can be recreated with a tarp for protection from the elements—perfect for winter camping in front of a fire. Here’s how to set it up:

Drape the Tarp:
Lay one corner of your tarp over the ridgeline.

Attach Toggles:

Insert your prusik loop through the top tie-out point on the tarp.
Pull the toggle tight to secure it.
Repeat on the opposite end for even tension.
Stake the Back:
Go behind the tarp and stake out the tie-out points directly opposite the toggles.

Create a Groundsheet:
Tuck the far corner of the tarp underneath to form a small groundsheet.

Stake the Front Corners:
Stake down the two front corner tie-out points to create side walls for your shelter.

Add a Guy Line:
Attach a string to the middle of the top of the tarp and tie it to a nearby tree. This gives the shelter more space inside.

Why It Works:
This setup reflects heat from your fire toward your body, making it ideal for winter camping or cold environments. It's simple, effective, and provides excellent protection from the elements.

12/19/2024

A prusik knot is an essential tool for securing and adjusting your tarp on a ridgeline. Here’s how to make it step-by-step:

Cut Two Loops:
Cut two short pieces of bank line (about 12–18 inches each) and tie an overhand knot to make closed loops.

Tie the Prusik Knot:

Hold one loop behind the ridgeline.
Wrap it around the ridgeline three times, keeping the wraps close together.
Pull it snug to secure the knot.
Repeat on the other side of the ridgeline.

Anchor Points:
These prusik knots serve as adjustable anchor points for your tarp. They slide when loose but lock in place when tension is applied.

Add Tent Stakes:
Use lightweight aluminum stakes or carve stakes from sticks at the campsite to anchor your tarp to the ground.

This setup creates a strong, adjustable ridgeline for your shelter. Simple, reliable, and effective for any camping situation!