Why This Skill Matters in an Emergency or Survival Situation

The Try Stick is a fundamental bushcraft technique that enhances your knife skills, which are crucial in survival scenarios. Whether you need to construct shelter, start a fire, or process food, having precise control over your knife can mean the difference between life and death. This technique helps you develop the muscle memory necessary for quick and accurate cuts, which are essential in a survival situation where time is of the essence.

What You Need

  • A small, straight stick, approximately 12 inches long and 1 inch in diameter
  • A bushcraft knife with a sharp blade
  • A cutting board or a flat piece of wood to protect your work surface
  • A fire starter or matches (for the final test)

Step-by-Step Instructions or Key Techniques

  1. Prepare Your Stick: Choose a straight stick that is free of knots and branches. The stick should be about 12 inches long and roughly 1 inch in diameter. This size is ideal for practicing various cuts without overwhelming you.
  2. Mark Your Stick: Using a pencil or a marker, draw a series of lines on the stick. These lines should be evenly spaced, about 1/4 inch apart. This will serve as your guide for making precise cuts.
  3. Start Cutting: Begin by making shallow cuts along the lines you’ve drawn. The goal is to practice control and precision. Start with a few cuts to get a feel for the knife and the stick.
  4. Gradually Increase Depth: As you become more comfortable with the knife, gradually increase the depth of your cuts. This will help you build up to making full-depth cuts without compromising control.
  5. Practice Different Cuts: Experiment with various types of cuts, such as straight cuts, diagonal cuts, and curved cuts. Each type of cut serves a different purpose in bushcraft and survival scenarios.
  6. Final Test: Once you feel confident with your cuts, try to split the stick along the lines you’ve made. This test will show you how well you’ve mastered the technique. If done correctly, the stick should split cleanly along the lines.
  7. Use the Try Stick: After mastering the technique, you can use the Try Stick to practice more complex bushcraft tasks, such as making feather sticks for fire starting or preparing kindling.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

  • Overreaching: Avoid overreaching with your knife. Keep your cuts close to your body to maintain control and precision.
  • Lack of Focus: Maintain focus on the task at hand. Distractions can lead to mistakes and injuries.
  • Improper Grip: Ensure you have a firm but not overly tight grip on your knife. A relaxed grip allows for better control and reduces the risk of slipping.
  • Ignoring Safety: Always be aware of your surroundings and the potential for accidents. Keep your work area clear and free of obstructions.

Variations, Tips, or Related Techniques Worth Knowing

  • Try Stick Variations: You can vary the size and shape of your stick to practice different types of cuts. For example, using a curved stick can help you practice making curved cuts.
  • Knife Maintenance: Regularly sharpen your knife to ensure it remains effective. A sharp knife requires less force and is safer to use.
  • Safety First: Always prioritize safety. Use a cutting board or a flat piece of wood to protect your work surface and reduce the risk of injury.
  • Practice Regularly: Like any skill, knife control improves with regular practice. Set aside time each day to hone your skills.

TLDR

The Try Stick is a bushcraft technique that enhances knife skills, crucial for survival. Practice precise cuts on a marked stick to build muscle memory and control. Avoid common mistakes like overreaching and lack of focus. Regular practice and safety precautions are key.

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