Best Bushcraft Gear Of 2024: What Everyone Needs To Thrive

In terms of bushcraft gear, there are many things that are essential for any survivalist. From multi-tools and knives to Ferro Rods and saws, having the best equipment for the job is essential for staying safe in the wild. But with so many options out there, how do you find the best bushcraft gear items of 2023?

Well, I am going to make it easy on you guys. I will select nothing but top-notch gear that has been trusted by many outdoor primitive skills experts around the world. Each of my choices will be based on real-world experience and best practices that are recommended by experienced survivalists.

So, let’s get started! Here is my top list of best bushcraft gear items that every survivalist needs to survive in the wild:

What Is The Best Bushcraft Gear?

1. Pathfinder Survival Water Bottle And Nesting Cup

Combining strength and convenience, the Pathfinder Survival Water Bottle container is an ideal piece of bushcraft gear for any outdoor enthusiast. It was created with durability in mind to survive unforgiving environments while being lightweight enough to be stored effortlessly.

This bottle is made from single-wall construction which can withstand direct fire or boiling/disinfecting water in the coals. It features a wide mouth option to allow you to easily obtain water from shallow pools and comes with a nesting cup with measurement graduations. Perfect for any survival kit!

The nesting cup fits over the cup which can be convenient for storage but can also be used to char materials. In fact, in this basic survival course, we did just that. We gathered punkwood and placed it inside the bottle, then put the nesting cup over the lid and placed it in the fire to char the punkwood.

The nesting cup also has fold-able heavy gauge “batwing” handles with an opening large enough for a gloved hand and measurements laser etched on the inside to easily measure liquids or dry goods.

People underestimate how important a container is in a survival situation or in bushcraft living in general.

Without a container, there is no way to (easily) store and transport water or goods. That’s why the Pathfinder Survival Water Bottle was designed with the best materials and best practices of bushcraft in mind. It’s the best choice for any survivalist looking to thrive in the wild.

Also, plastic just sucks.

2. Morakniv Garberg Carbon Steel Knife

Second in my kit, and my favorite bushcraft knife I own, is the Morakniv Garberg Carbon Steel Knife. This knife blade has been continuously popular among bushcraft and survivalists due to its lightweight, durable, full-tang design and impressive carbon steel blade.

The Garberg’s full-tang gives it strength, and durability, and makes it ideal for hard use like batoning firewood.

The knife is made from carbon steel that can take a beating, and you can use it to shed sparks with a piece of flint. It also features a 90-degree spine for easy use with a Ferrocerium fire starter, or to process tinder down.

In addition to these great features, the knife is equipped with an ergonomic handle made from some sort of synthetic material which provides a comfortable and secure grip in my opinion.

Whether you’re making shelters, processing tinder bundles, or need to make precision cuts, the Morakniv Garberg Carbon Steel Knife is arguably one of the best bushcraft gear items that every survivalist needs, and to top everything off, it is under $100.

For decades, revered survivalists such as Mors Kochanski and Dave Canterbury have unanimously regarded this bushcraft knife to be the top choice for extended wilderness uses. Just don’t forget the knife sharpener. (:

Check out my article on the best bushcraft knives made today.

3. Grayl GeoPress Water Filter

Pros:

• Quickly filters 24oz of water in 15 seconds

Cons:

• Expensive (ish)
• Not as long-lasting as some filters

Next on the list of survival gear is a must-have for any outdoor enthusiast—a water filter. And the best portable option available is the Grayl Ultralight Water Purifier. This lightweight and compact purifier will remove viruses, bacteria, protozoa, particulates, chemicals, and heavy metals from any water source in 15 seconds or less.

The Grayl’s straightforward one-press design allows you to effortlessly turn any water source into safe drinking water.

All it takes is filling up the outer cup with contaminated liquid, pressing down on the inner cup that activates an internal filtration system consisting of a replaceable filter, and drinking out clean filtered water into your mouth.

This device is an excellent addition to backcountry travel, as the filters can last up to 65 gallons – enough water supply to sustain you for a few weeks.

I have seen it becoming more and more popular among bushcraft communities and survivalists due to the convenience and practically instant water filtration method. Unlike many other water filtration systems, you don’t need to aggressively squeeze water through, allowing for quick hydration.

The Grayl is definitely more expensive than traditional water filters, but it is worth the extra money in terms of convenience and portability. With its advanced purification system and ease of use, the Grayl Ultralight Water Purifier is an invaluable tool that everyone should have on hand.

4. #12 Tarred Bankline

Well, to some people, this might not be as fun of an option. But, I have to add it as it is one of my favorite pieces of gear– Bankline.

For those unfamiliar with this item, bankline is a nylon cordage that is “tarred” and comes in a variety of thicknesses. It’s best used for applications such as lashing, rigging shelters, or any other task that requires a strong rope, and can even be used as an emergency fire starter as it is quite flammable.

I started using bankline for my bushcraft and outdoor activities and I have never looked back. It’s extremely strong and reliable, even when wet or in extreme temperatures. The best part is that it’s relatively inexpensive and you get plenty of material for a small price.

Some benefits to it are that it binds well on itself, you can carry more than paracord, and it is also UV resistant and rot resistant- so many people have created gill nets using bankline.

5. Bushcraft Auger

An auger is a bushcraft tool that is primarily used for drilling holes into various materials. It consists of a handle attached to a shaft that has a screw-like blade at the end, which enables it to be twisted into a wood material creating a hole.

An auger is a unique kit item for any bushcraft enthusiast, as it can be used in various ways such as making shelter poles, creating seating, or even constructing tools like a mallet and structures that require a hole to be drilled into them.

Let your creativity run wild! There are people who have built entire shelters using nothing more than an Auger. Honestly, the possibilities are limitless.

6. Ferrocerium Rod Fire Starter

A ferrocerium (Ferro) rod is an essential tool for any bushcraft enthusiast or survivalist. It is a small, lightweight rod made from ferrocerium, a metal alloy that produces sparks when scraped against a rough surface.

This Ferro rod can be used to start a fire in any environment and has been known to work even when wet- as long as you have the knowledge of how to do it! This one is special though, as it is a 1/2-inch thick and 6-inch long rod.

Why is this better?

Well, the larger size means it will last longer and produce more intense sparks, allowing you to start a fire even faster. Also, if you are cold or sweaty, gripping tiny ones just sucks. This one lets you grip it solidly and makes it much easier to control.

7. 100% Wool Blanket

A wool blanket is one of the best pieces of gear for bushcraft and survivalists and quite honestly, they are a staple in the “bushcraft” community.

Not only does it offer superior insulation, but also can be used for many other tasks. It can be used in addition to a sleeping bag, as a sleeping pad, folded up to create insulation in cold environments, and much more.

I personally have used a queen-size blanket in temperatures down to 35 in the winter. Wool blankets are also incredibly durable, often lasting years of regular use with proper care.

Another benefit is that they are naturally flame resistant allowing for use around the fire.

There are now wool blankets available made of a blend of synthetic materials and natural fibers. Whatever you decide, just know that 100% wool is going to be better for overall use than any blended blankets.

8. Steel Flint Striker Primitive Fire Starter

A steel flint striker is a tool that has been used for many years before you and me to allow our ancestors to prepare food. It is used to create sparks in order to ignite a fire.

It consists of two parts: a hard, dry piece of carbon-rich iron alloy (flint) and a high-carbon steel striker. When the striker is struck against the flint, it creates sparks that oxidize almost instantly, producing a shower of weak sparks. Sparks created by friction are perfect for igniting charred material or tinder fungus, among other combustible materials.

If you’re looking for an effective and reliable way to start a fire with a more long-term mindset, a steel flint striker is likely the best bet. It’s lightweight and easily carried so it can always be ready when you need it.

It is worth noting, however, that this is difficult and will take lots of practice to master. But, with enough practice and patience, you can always have a reliable fire starter in your pocket.

Other Essential Bushcraft Tools

• Axe or Hatchet
• Compass
• Tarp or Tent
• Backpack
• Shovel
• Multi-Tool
• First Aid Kit

There are many items that can prove to be essential in your kit. It all depends on your skill level and the situation. It’s best to research and plan ahead of time for any potential scenario you may face.

Learning Bushcraft Skills

Remember, gear isn’t a substitute for skills. There is no substitute for knowledge, so learning bushcraft skills should be a top priority for any aspiring survivalist or bushcraft enthusiast.

Bushcraft and wilderness living are best taught with hands-on experience and guided instruction from experienced instructors who can provide personalized guidance to help you become more proficient in the outdoors.

Whether you’re just getting started or are an experienced outdoor enthusiast, it pays to purchase quality training that will enhance your experience.

Here are some courses I would recommend.

Best Bushcraft Gear: Conclusion

All in all, bushcraft gear is essential for anyone looking to thrive in the wilderness. Whether you are looking for a way to start an efficient fire or need something that will help you create shelter in the wilderness, having the best bushcraft gear around, can make all the difference.

Items such as Bankline, an auger, a Ferro rod, and a steel flint striker are just some of the best tools available for getting out in the woods and should be considered by anyone looking to be prepared for their next adventure.

With these tools in your arsenal and some smarts in your brain, you will have all you need to thrive and survive whatever mother nature throws your way!

---