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The Ultralight
Backpacking Site |
Survival Spears
(Adapted from the U.S. Army Survival
Manual)
Spear Blades
To make survival spears, use the same procedures
to make the blade that you used to make a knife blade. (See the
page Survival Knives) Then
select a shaft (a straight sapling) 1.2 to 1.5 meters long. The
length should allow you to handle the spear easily and effectively.
Attach the spear blade to the shaft using lashing. The preferred
method is to split the handle, insert the blade, then wrap or
lash it tightly.
You can use other materials without adding
a blade. Select a 1.2-to 1.5-meter long straight hardwood shaft
and shave one end to a point. If possible, fire harden the point.
Bamboo also makes an excellent spear. Select a piece 1.2 to 1.5
meters long. Starting 8 to 10 centimeters back from the end used
as the point, shave down the end at a 45-degree angle (Figure
12-4). Remember, to sharpen the edges, shave only the inner portion.
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Steve's Notes: If you'll be using your spear to
catch fish, make small cuts near the point and towards the point,
to create "barbs" that will keep the fish from slipping
off. Another fishing spear is made by splitting the end of the
spear and propping it open with a thin stick. When forced down
on the fish, the stick is knocked out, and the two sides close
on the fish. |
Back to Survival
Weapons.
Back to the Wilderness
Survival Guide.
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The Ultralight
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