Bushcraft :: bʊʃkræft

Bushcraft has been around since prehistoric times, yet it’s still in use today by survivalists and adventurers as well as the military and intelligence.

An advanced form of wilderness survival comprised of sets of traditional skills and modern techniques used for the wild.

An incredibly useful and versatile skillset which can help you survive in a variety of scenarios whether you’re an operator on a mission or just a regular person looking for some adventure in the outdoors.

        Bushcraft Meaning

Bushcraft is a set of wilderness survival and outdoor skills that allow individuals to live and thrive in a natural environment with limited resources and equipment. The term “bushcraft” originated in Australia and New Zealand and was used to describe the skills used by frontiersmen and pioneers to survive in the bush.

The purpose of bushcraft theory is to be able to not just survive in the wilderness but to thrive in it. To not just stay alive but to be alive – being healthy, safe and even comfortable in such places and scenarios most people couldn’t handle. It emphasizes self-reliance, self-sufficiency and a deep connection to nature.

The concepts and practices of bushcraft can be as a hobby, a form of recreation or a means of survival in emergency / professional situation. It can also serve as a way to experience nature, develop practical skills to make it a lifestyle type to be lived.

          Origins of Bushcraft

This wilderness craft has its origins in ancient hunting and gathering societies, when humans had to rely on their own skills and knowledge of nature to survive.

At times when bushcraft wasn’t optional but was an integral part of the way of life, by default.

It has been practiced by different cultures over centuries, with its origin traced back to indigenous tribes from various parts of the world.

Today, bushcraft is still heavily influenced by these primitive methods but has also evolved to include modern techniques such as GPS navigation, digital communications, and advanced first-aid.

          Components of Bushcraft

There are many components that make up the bushcraft skillset. These include survival basics like fire-making, proximity alert methods, water procurement / treatment, knife / axe use, first-aid / trauma care, trapping / fishing / hunting animals for food, plant identification / harvesting wild edibles, map reading / navigation using a compass, GPS or stars.

In addition to these more general skillsets there are additional methods such as improvising tools from natural materials, building primitive shelters with minimal resources, tracking / counter-tracking and setting (booby) traps for human targets.

Each component of bushcraft requires different levels of expertise depending on your specific situation – from basic knowledge to advanced proficiency. The goal is always the same – survival.

          Professional Bushcraft

Bushcraft has become increasingly popular over the years due to its focus on developing self-sovereignty through becoming more aware of one’s environment.

By taking the time to learn some basic principles you can give yourself a peace of mind knowing that you have the necessary skills should you ever find yourself lost or stranded in the wilderness without any help nearby. With the proper knowledge and practice, anyone can become an expert at surviving with little more than what nature provides you.

Practitioners believe that these crafts and concepts are important not just for surviving outdoors but also as tools for personal growth and development.