What Can You Do With Your Hiking Staff?

Рет қаралды 242,153

Күн бұрын

In this video I demonstrate a few ways you can use your hiking staff
How to Make a Hiking Staff - A Complete Guide • How to Make a Hiking S...

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@jimivy6019 Жыл бұрын

My hiking stick is my journal. I still use the bamboo hiking stick that I made for my first major hike trip back in rhe early 70s. Each time I went on a major hike, I would scratch the location and date on the stick. As my children grew, I would take each of them on trip to introduce them to the beautiful country that I have loved so much. I would scratch their name, the year, and where we went on my stick. Now that I am in my eighties, I can sit in my rocking chair, pick up my old stick and I am a young man again, walking free on the mountain trails and experiencing again the wonder and excitement just as fresh as it was 50 years ago.

@MarkYoungBushcraft Жыл бұрын

Very nice. Love the idea. Thanks for commenting

@RenegadesRift Жыл бұрын

These skills have been forgotten by so many in todays world. Thank you for keeping them alive.

@MarkYoungBushcraft Жыл бұрын

Most welcome. Thanks for commenting

@diedrichlubben3479 Жыл бұрын

I live in the coastal region of northern Germany, which used to be the sea bed, until we built dykes. The whole area is crisscrossed by small trenches. I use a slightly bigger and sturdy stick for vaulting over these, as my ancestors used to do. It's actually quite fun, too. Unless you jump to short, then it's fun for everyone else.

@MarkYoungBushcraft Жыл бұрын

Interesting, I have heard of that before. We also have a lot of historic land reclaimed from the see but I have not heard of the trench vaulting here. Thanks for commenting

@diedrichlubben3479 Жыл бұрын

kzfaq.info/get/bejne/e9KihrCbxL-pdac.html Our west Frisian brothers turned this into sports. Traditionally, the poles were not that long, of course.

@MJintheUSA Жыл бұрын

Hey Mark, I've been using a six foot hiking staff for many years for all the reasons you stated, but here are a few more. I live in the Southwestern US and when I am hiking down "snakey" looking trails edged with brush I will hold the staff out at arms length and move it side to side against the vegetation as I walk. Doing this, I'm hoping to scare any hidden snakes further into the brush, or at least get them to rattle a warning. In the same vein, when I am hiking down trails with overhanging brush that I think could harbor some ticks looking for a ride, I use the staff to beat the intrusive branches in hopes of dislodging some of those nasty blood-suckers before I get there. I'm sure you've also used the staff as a kind of "pole-vaulting" stick to help you jump across a creek that might have been a little to wide to clear without it. I also do a lot of beach hiking, and don't like setting my daypack on the damp sand and stooping stooping over it to retrieve some item from the pack. I fashioned a little pouch that attaches to the top grab-handle of my day-pack that I can easily slip over the top of the staff to securely hold my pack at eye level while I retrieve an item from it. You could probably even repurpose the fustibalus you mentioned in the video to serve dual function to accomplish the same thing!

@MarkYoungBushcraft Жыл бұрын

Glad we don't have poisonous snakes here. I had considered the pole-vault idea but did not think this stick was long enough. Small jumps maybe. Thanks for commenting

@patricknorton5788 Жыл бұрын

I live in Western Oregon and have no worries about venomous snakes here, but used to live in Virginia and once was jumping from the upper bank of a creek (that fed into the Potomac River) to the storm-level boulders below. When I had already committed my weight, I saw below me an enormous black cottonmouth (water moccasin) rearing up and hissing at me. Its middle must have been as thick as my wrist! I went right over it and kept going. I still think a walking stick of some sort is a good idea in the woods!

@patricknorton5788 Жыл бұрын

@Mark Young I use a shorter walking stick to steady my hops from one boulder to another, or from a log to a lower spot of ground while wearing a pack (especially a heavy one). Saves wear on the joints for sure and also a possible fall.

@willoughby1888 Жыл бұрын

@@patricknorton5788 I had water moccasins in my back yard boat shelter down in Hernando, Florida, but it was rattlers which almost got me twice. Once in 1968 at age 11 when I'd run away from home for 2 nights and slept in the Eagle Rock caves near Pasadena, California and a rattler was on the knife-edge trail on the steep rock face I was committed to be on, or fall off. It rattled right above my head and drew back very angrily. We had both suddenly surprised each other. I suddenly saw it about to strike and had fearfully jumped into a tree, then had to climb my way down about twenty-five feet. I could have lost an eye because of a twig or small branch, or fallen and broken bones. I just launched my little body at the tree. I knew trees well already and I knew they didn't bite boys(just maybe girls!) That was me trying to sound "Fun Knee". Trees like girls climbing up on them, who wouldn't? Forgive me, being that fun thing again because I'm still here and the snakes didn't get me, ha! I knew only boy-brain things about trees though! The second time was just outside of Deming, New Mexico back in 1977. I had left a carnival I worked a 3-day weekend at as a reward for rescuing a full station wagon of cute girls who worked at a man's ring toss joint. They had gotten a flat tire and didn't know how to fix it. I came walking upon the scene while hitchhiking to Los Angeles and had them back on the road in the boasted about, "7 minutes from start to finish" timeframe. The clock started ticking when all was set up to start the job. I hadn't told then the year before I had worked several months at a truck stop and changed lots of semi truck's tires. I earned a huge wad of dough and then had said all my goodbyes. Silly 19 year-old me thought to take a shortcut across a vintage abandoned airstrip right next to the carnival that now was tearing down. The airstrip had big tumbleweeds and chest-high dry-leafed bushes. It also had quite a few small gullies that flash-floods had created after it had been left to mother nature. I was "traveling along, singing a song" when the song of rattles from rattlesnakes suddenly filled my ears. Surprisingly, I seemed to be surrounded by them. The sounds were loud and the sounds had depth. It seemed like a snake audience at a small concert. I never knew a bunch of rattles could group up and grow so loud like that. The freeway I wanted to 'stick my thumb out on' was far, far closer than turning back and going the long, long way back to the carnival and then down a long dirt road where the only street junction was. Plus, I had heard snakes that way I had just come, too. I must have somehow walked by them without awakening them. Their buddie's rattles had snitched on me though! There was NO stick to pick up, only sand was there. Very hot sand, too. I decided to run really really really fast! I'd just be too quick for them! Yeah.....gulp, that! I made it a ways and then I saw a four-foot deep gully a little ways in front of me. "Oh No" I would have to jump over it. Going down and up would take too long and snakes would have eaten me in a 'sand trough'. When I did arrive at full speed and jump, and was flying through the air and about half ways across, I saw a whole pile of thick basking-in-the-sun rattlesnakes. Enough to fill a whole beer keg. The big beer keg, not the "pony" keg. Maybe enough to fill a laundromat washing machine even. The little one, not the big one people try to stuff their carpets into, but fail miserably at doing. Anyways, I knew I'd be toast as soon as I landed. I landed hard on the sand about two foot or less away from the pile of snakes now at my left side. I had just barely made the jump and was thankful I thought to run at high speed. The hard landing pinned me into the sand I landed on and stuck me there for a few precious seconds.... A B O U T T H I S L O N G. I used those seconds to look right at the pile of snakes. It felt like forever before I could start back to running again. Strong fear had also helped me to freeze cautiously and consider options. I had to start running hard from scratch, but I had very strong motivation! No singing this time either! By the time I had started running away from the sun-stupid-brain pile of sleeping snakes I had had enough time to look at each one individually and consider giving it a nickname. I recall watching one twiddle it's forked tongue at me and then slowly wink an eye. I think it wanted me to come closer so we could swap spit. Snakes. You never know what they're really honestly thinking. You and I both got kinda lucky huh?

@franziskani Жыл бұрын

@@willoughby1888 What a story ;)

@tuerkefechi Жыл бұрын

All of this and never underestimate its use as a tool for selfdefense. My experience with the Camino de Santiago and other long hikes, is a good old hiking staff or walking Stick of wood is a better choice than the telescopic walking poles. You can way better secure your weight in difficult terrain, you can use it as a multipurpose tool,and you can brandish it as a weapon for selfdefense. And in the latter case I do not necessarily talk about human predators, highwaymen or your trusty duelist, but also canine. Had more than one incident with guard dogs and wild dogs, when it was necessary though unpleasant to have a sturdy wooden staff to fend them off. Sadly enough often the pose of a human having a stick raised for a strike is enough to scare them off (poor fellows), but if you have to, you want to trust good old wood to give a solid whack.

@MarkYoungBushcraft Жыл бұрын

Great suggestions. I have also realized how often I use it for knocking snow off branches. Thanks for commenting

@la_old_salt2241 Жыл бұрын

Hickory is my preferred stick material. Purple Heart Armory makes nice laminated hickory canes and staffs.

@srf2112 6 ай бұрын

I'll admit I clicked on this wondering what in the world I could learn about the use of a simple walking staff. Then you taught me. Thank you.

@MarkYoungBushcraft 6 ай бұрын

Glad you enjoyed the video. Thanks for commenting

@georgerector9252 Жыл бұрын

Brushing spider webs out of my path.

@MarkYoungBushcraft Жыл бұрын

Yes, for sure. Me also. Thanks for commenting

@paradyne1T101 Жыл бұрын

😄 Also chase Bigfoot away!

@BUZZKILLJRJR Жыл бұрын

And absolutely could swing that like a bat and seriously injure or kill a coyote or dog.

@KatoCoyoteCombatWorkshop Жыл бұрын

@@BUZZKILLJRJR Dog defense is a big reason for mine. I locked eyes with an off-leash doberman and their inattentive owner was daydreaming. I had no staff at the time but the owner grabbed the dog by the collar and dragged it off when he heard it growling at me.

@philsmith2346 Жыл бұрын

Amen to that! Been doing it for decades!

@RDaMyth Жыл бұрын

A hiking staff is great for seniors to use just walking around. As a third leg they are helpful for steadying you as you walk up & down steps. And for getting to your feet from the ground or a chair.

@MarkYoungBushcraft Жыл бұрын

Right on. Being a senior myself I can appreciate that. Thanks for commenting

@coleparker Жыл бұрын

I agree being a senior myself. I have a couple of them, both metal and wooden. My wooden one has the carving of a Wizards head smoking a pipe. I call it my Gandalf staff🙂

@constancepullen810 Жыл бұрын

Having cared for in-laws the last years of their life with them using walkers they were always bent over. After I got a neck and low back injury, I needed better balance and support to walk. I started using my boy scout staff but it soon became heavy to carry. I was able to stand and walk upright. I purchased an aluminum adjustable staff with an walnut top with inset compass and 1 inch spike hidden in the rubber foot. Under the walnut top was a camera fitting that my husband loved! Dubbed 'Fred' by a friend, we have been buddies since 1998, he's a little worn but I won't plan a trip without him.

@Brocuzgodlocdunfamdogson Жыл бұрын

I’m not a senior, but I have one especially bad knee and another not-so-good knee. Reducing the load on my knees by just a few ounces can make a huge difference 8 hours later.

@vincentperratore4395 Жыл бұрын

Great idea! I bought a chestnut hiking stick some years back and it's probably the lightest stick you can get but it's strong despite that.

@Pedenzo Жыл бұрын

I had a rabid fox come at me and my dog....I used my walking stick to keep my dog away from the fox, and to keep the fox away from me. I had to tee off on the fox like I was Tiger Woods, broke my stick ....but I was able to put that poor fox out of his misery....Thanks for your videos, I always enjoy them....

@MarkYoungBushcraft Жыл бұрын

Wow, amazing story. Thanks for sharing

@thedriftingspore Жыл бұрын

There is something special about negotiating the forest with a sturdy staff. Mine is slightly taller than myself and came from a beaver lodge. I especially appreciate the numerous uses it provides, however I never considered using it with a sling to fire projectiles. Thank you for sharing Mark!

@MarkYoungBushcraft Жыл бұрын

Your staff sounds perfect. A staff with a story adds to the experience. Thanks for commenting

@terryw.milburn8565 Жыл бұрын

Walking Staffs Don't Get Enough Credit For Their Usefulness, Thanks For Sharing Your Uses On This Staff Love It ! Have A Swell Upcoming Week, Mark ! ATB T God Bless

@MarkYoungBushcraft Жыл бұрын

So true. Thanks for commenting Terry

@benbrown8258 Жыл бұрын

On my bucket list of things I've wanted to do most of my adult life was camping and hiking. This hiking staff video was inspiring. I may have to break out my unused equipment and get out there ...with a staff of course.

@MarkYoungBushcraft Жыл бұрын

Right on. I am happy you found this helpful. Thanks for commenting

@starlingblack814 Жыл бұрын

Thanks Mark for the video. When I was a boy and not driving a tractor or going to school, I would hike the plowed fields with a hiking staff to use to flip over flint sherds while searching for arrowheads. I recently saw a KZfaq video with hobos carrying a staff for defense and tying a bindle bag to the end to contain their few camping possessions. I guess the staff countered the weight of the bindle bag. Interesting!

@MarkYoungBushcraft Жыл бұрын

I had not thought of the classic bindle. Thanks for commenting

@oneupmanship Жыл бұрын

Often called a bindle stick back then. Kinda miss the hobo's. Now it's just homeless people. Doesn't have the same romance to it.

@naturesketches126 Жыл бұрын

They're great for checking for snakes when going over a log. Thank you for a wonderful video, very enjoyable.

@MarkYoungBushcraft Жыл бұрын

Glad you enjoyed it. Thanks for commenting

@alandahlstrom7213 3 ай бұрын

Except for the tent pole this had several great ideas that I never considered and a very well done video.

@MarkYoungBushcraft 3 ай бұрын

Glad you enjoyed it! Thanks for commenting

@CandC68 Жыл бұрын

Many years ago I found another use. This was in the military. What I did was use a straight, strong stick I found, not a legit staff. But a decent staff would work. Anyway... I needed to take a dump and a full squat would put my trousers at risk. So, I propped the stick horizontal across two points (rocks, logs, etc.) to make a seat. It was about a foot and a half or so off the ground and trousers were clear of damage. Paying attention to balance and aim was important.

@MarkYoungBushcraft Жыл бұрын

Yes, that would be a good use. Thanks for commenting

@steamboatmodel Жыл бұрын

Hi Mark, I have made some with a 1/4-20 thread stud on the end, this is usually the common thread for Cammera mounds. Also if you are in poisons snake areas it is good for probing underbrush. Some of the early Scout handbooks back when they used staffs used to show many uses.

@MarkYoungBushcraft Жыл бұрын

I had though of the camera mount. May do that yet. Thanks for commenting

@patricknorton5788 Жыл бұрын

I have a pair of modern trekking poles which are great for some trips, but on a simple hike I use my grandfather's Bolex monopod (circa 1965?). It originally had three telescoping sections, the lowest of one was broken off crossing a mountain stream many years ago. I was a bicycle mechanic, so I replaced the bottom section with a bit of chainstay from a 1980s Centurion road bike fixed with some epoxy and a rivet. It no longer telescopes so compact. On the upper part I put on a mountain bike handlebar extension (inverted- sloping down) and below that a handlebar grip. It still has the 1/4x20 screw on top for a camera (and if unscrewed and inverted, the larger size for (?) a Speed Graphic from the 50s?. On the bottom, where the bicycle frame tubing meets the trail, I put a piece of fiber-reinforced rubber compressor tubing. It grips the rocks as well as any $20 Leiki trekking pole tip, and is easily replaced. At 50+ years I am still using it frequently. Great bit of kit and it reminds me of my grandfather and also my dad (still alive) both photographers and my using it with my dad's 300 mm lens at the World Coss County Championships in 1984 in New Jersey. Even crossing a stream in Oregon with my wife and child 38 years later, I have that connection. I used it two days ago.

@steveshepherd2712 Жыл бұрын

The staff sling is a lot of fun but make sure you have a lot of space ( no buildings or people) as you will be surprised just how far that rock can go. I added a 1/4 inch thread on the end to mount my bird watching binoculars on, when not in use it is covered with a carving of a dogs head that has a matching nut embedded in it😉

@MarkYoungBushcraft Жыл бұрын

I like the idea of adding the 1/4" threading for cameras, etc. Thanks for commenting

@flyyinryan Жыл бұрын

fantastic video! thanks for putting it out there!

@MarkYoungBushcraft Жыл бұрын

Glad you liked it. Thanks for commenting

@fauseth Жыл бұрын

Love your style of instruction. Thank you!

@MarkYoungBushcraft Жыл бұрын

Glad it was helpful! Thanks for commenting

@andymytys Жыл бұрын

When hiking in a group where there is particularly steep trail to navigate, I go first with my staff, then from the other end extend it to those behind me so I can pull them up. Particularly for those with shorter legs, this assistance has been appreciated.

@MarkYoungBushcraft Жыл бұрын

Good idea. I lead guided hikes often. I will remember this. Thanks for commenting

@jacqueline7118 Жыл бұрын

Great video Mark! Thanks for sharing! :) :)

@MarkYoungBushcraft Жыл бұрын

Most welcome. Thanks for commenting Jackie

@totallyfrozen Жыл бұрын

I always felt like I wanted a hiking staff, but I never knew what to look for and didn’t know the various ways to use it. This video was really helpful.

@MarkYoungBushcraft Жыл бұрын

That is just what I was hoping to accomplish. Thanks for commenting

@tomthomas1458 Жыл бұрын

Thanks Mark for a video that was well done. I have a twist on my hiking staff I would like to share. My hiking staff is made from a dry 6 foot piece of bamboo. I have place a crotch tip on the end hitting the ground. Now the fun part: I cut a window in between one section. That allowed me to take some small plastic bags. In those bags went cotton balls covered in vaseline, ferro rod, bic lighter, 1/2 inch hemp rope covered in wax, 6 bandaids, split shot, fishing line, and hooks. A good bit of stuff that I have used successfully to catch fish and make a fire when needed. I put the piece of wood I cut out of the bamboo and covered the hole and covered that with several wraps of duck tape and then wrapped the area with 50 foot of 550 cord. The staff goes with me everywhere I go when I am on foot and I will always have a way to make a fire, fix a small cut, and fish if necessary. It was a good woodcraft projuct and I keep the same Items with me in my saddle when doing trail work and can practice with the items on a regular basis. Again, liked your video and you might want to try this in your videos. I think you would enjoy the process and your viewers would to.

@MarkYoungBushcraft Жыл бұрын

I have often thought about building a "survival staff" similar to the one you have made. We do not have bamboo here so I would have to come up with something different. I will give it some thought. Thanks for commenting

@DrDennis Жыл бұрын

What a fun video Mark. Very good info since I own a few sticks.

@MarkYoungBushcraft Жыл бұрын

Glad you enjoyed it. Thanks for commenting

@kanukkarhu Жыл бұрын

Nice! Really enjoyed that!

@MarkYoungBushcraft Жыл бұрын

Glad you enjoyed it! Thanks for commenting

@Flashahol Жыл бұрын

Well, now exactly how I'm going to make my next staff. Thanks for this demonstration!

@MarkYoungBushcraft Жыл бұрын

Glad it was helpful! Thanks for commenting

@jackvoss5841 Жыл бұрын

I had a staff tucked away, and after viewing your video, got it out. Marked some depth/height measurements on it . Thought about circumference grooves as you have. Laid it aside to ponder some, and ended up with a prussic knot made with about 5’ of parachute cord. This adjustable-up-and-down rig, with about 6 wraps instead of the traditional 3, provides: (1) hand grip & rest, and (2) lashing for various attachments, (3) lashing to add other sticks for a bipod or tripod, (4) other exigencies as yet unencountered. Courtesy of Half Vast Flying

@MarkYoungBushcraft Жыл бұрын

All good uses for sure, Thanks for commenting

@wendellhagg3511 Жыл бұрын

Lots of things to consider !! 👍

@troymorris4590 Жыл бұрын

Great video

@MarkYoungBushcraft Жыл бұрын

Glad you enjoyed it. Thanks for commenting

@madgekilbourn5256 Жыл бұрын

Thank you for the valuable information!

@MarkYoungBushcraft Жыл бұрын

Most welcome. Thanks for commenting

@markmartello Жыл бұрын

Thanks Mark.

@MarkYoungBushcraft Жыл бұрын

Very welcome. Thanks for commenting

@MK-zg2yy Жыл бұрын

Love the ballista sling

@MarkYoungBushcraft Жыл бұрын

Takes practice but is a lot of fun. Thanks for commenting

@resilientfarmsanddesignstu1702 Жыл бұрын

Great stuff Mark. I'm a trail runner so I don't use my staff when I am out in the woods for that however when I am going hiking or camping with my family, especially in a wilderness area, I ALWAYS carry a staff. I regularly practice bo staff, and quarter staff for upper body exercise and know how to use it effectively for self defense if necessary. Like you I find the staff quite useful for many purposes. Balance is important especially when carrying a heavy pack. The one that I made can be taken apart into 4 pieces. When I don't want to have my staff in hand I just unscrew it and put it in or on my pack. Also when making camp, I often break the staff apart and place the pieces crossways in the V of a tree. Then I secure my hammock tent to that. Since I have four pieces I often share a piece or two with my fellow campers so that they can do the same thing.

@MarkYoungBushcraft Жыл бұрын

Some interesting uses I had not thought of. Thanks for commenting

@mdouble100 Жыл бұрын

I have a hiking staff made from a hickory sapling. I've had it for years but have not used it as you use yours. You've now inspired me to make another staff with the features you've added to yours. Well done video and thanks for sharing.

@MarkYoungBushcraft Жыл бұрын

Glad the video was helpful. Thanks for commenting

@xj35s 2 ай бұрын

Loved this video. I put a 1" marks up to two feet on the lower section and opposite them I added random deeper notches for worm grunting. I also put two holes at 90° angles to square up any builds, or navigation, use as peep sights. I have a much taller stave because I use it for polling the canoe at times too. Thanks for the tips. I want to try the sling now!

@MarkYoungBushcraft 2 ай бұрын

Great additions. Thanks for commenting

@OzMan9989 Жыл бұрын

Really cool!

@MarkYoungBushcraft Жыл бұрын

Glad you liked it. Thanks for commenting

@jksurvivalbushcraft Жыл бұрын

Awesome video!!

@MarkYoungBushcraft Жыл бұрын

Glad you liked it. Thanks for commenting

@tray-b6955 Жыл бұрын

Another great educational video from "Professor Mark"! 👨‍🎓 Thanks for sharing these. I use mine for simple hiking/balance and as a 'potential' weapon (snakes, coyotes, etc.) if needed.

@MarkYoungBushcraft Жыл бұрын

That is what I use it for most as well. Thanks for commenting

@MichaelR58 Жыл бұрын

Good video and demonstration Mark , thanks for sharing , God bless !

@MarkYoungBushcraft Жыл бұрын

Most welcome. Thanks for commenting

@greyscout01 Жыл бұрын

Probably the best Staff video I've seen... thanks

@MarkYoungBushcraft Жыл бұрын

Glad you liked it! Thanks for commenting

@paulmccarthy341 Жыл бұрын

Thanks , very informative.

@MarkYoungBushcraft Жыл бұрын

Glad you liked it. Thanks for commenting

@tomcaldwell5750 Жыл бұрын

Absolutely awesome video. Thanks for sharing.

@MarkYoungBushcraft Жыл бұрын

Glad you enjoyed it. Thanks for commenting

@CockatoobirdmanBill 7 ай бұрын

now that I am 81 years young I don't use my walking stick. for about 35 years I used it the stick I use is 6'6" and made of hickory it has the same type of groves that you have at each end butnI have 2 groves at the bottom and 3 at the top each about 4" apart on the top and bottom I turned down a 1/4" coupling nut and epoxied it into the stick now I have a camera mount or a spike or what ever. I also did the same as you and used a 3/4" copper cap on the bottom end also made a special v tool if I were looking for snakes. Great stuff Mark thanks for the vid I can't do it now but I can relive some of my past form your adventures thank you.......💯❤

@MarkYoungBushcraft 7 ай бұрын

Thanks for sharing your experineces

@wendellhagg3511 Жыл бұрын

Thank You for Sharing !! Enjoyed !! H.

@MarkYoungBushcraft Жыл бұрын

Glad you liked it. Thanks for commenting

@timschutte6924 6 ай бұрын

I have a very nice piece of bamboo that I'm gonna use for mine. I also have a 7 foot long piece of WHITE WAXWOOD, both of these materials bend without breaking. Every time I watch one of these videos I get more and more ideas about how to use one and how to outfit one. The possibilities are endless. Thanks, your a very humble respectful kinda guy. Keep up the good work and ideas

@MarkYoungBushcraft 6 ай бұрын

I am interested in trying bamboo but it does not grow here, Glad you found the video helpful

@timschutte6924 6 ай бұрын

@@MarkYoungBushcraft I found a few very long pieces in the garbage once about 5 years ago. I'm gonna glue a piece of broom handle in the top. That way I can drill through and mount my bushman knife from Cold Steel and make a spear. Wrap the handle with 550 paracord and dremel out a section to put some fishing stuff, mylar blanket, and some basic first aid items. Maybe some fat wood and a ferro rod too. Ranger beads of course too. And a compas

@parson8582 Жыл бұрын

Great job, good ideas. Thank you

@MarkYoungBushcraft Жыл бұрын

Thanks for commenting

@solarnaut Жыл бұрын

Especially on rainy lazy days, I ask everyone on my hiking staff to go do my hiking for me. B-)

@MarkYoungBushcraft Жыл бұрын

Must be nice to have such good staff😉. Thanks for commenting

@michellemichaels3258 Жыл бұрын

Always interesting and informative 🤗

@MarkYoungBushcraft Жыл бұрын

Glad you liked it. Thanks for commenting

@rudmerv Жыл бұрын

Interesting. Here in New Zealand farmers and shepherds who spend a lot of time walking in mountainous environments traditionally use a "mountain stick". This is typically about 5-6 ft long and made of seasoned "manuka", a tough local tree species. The stick helps provide stability especially traversing across and steep slopes.

@MarkYoungBushcraft Жыл бұрын

Very interesting. I had not heard of manuka trees before. Thanks for commenting

@bennelson3724 Жыл бұрын

This is an awesome vid, thanks for your efforts

@MarkYoungBushcraft Жыл бұрын

Glad you enjoyed it! Thanks for commenting

@Gn8Lif3 Жыл бұрын

in scotish highlands or in the pyrenees the sheperts staff was also used to basicly polejump over terain climb trees and rocks it is such a good underrated multitool

@MarkYoungBushcraft Жыл бұрын

Yes, great suggestions. Thanks for commenting

@LandNfan Жыл бұрын

I still have one I made nearly 50 years ago when I began volunteering as a scout leader. A nice, reasonably straight piece of strong, lightweight Tennessee hickory. Still as useful as the day I cut it all those years ago. I couldn’t begin to name all the roles it filled in outdoor improvisational engineering.

@MarkYoungBushcraft Жыл бұрын

Lots of history with that staff. We have hickory but it is not common. Will need to see if I can find some. Thanks for commenting

@justinriley8651 11 ай бұрын

hard to beat a good piece of hickory.

@TheRealDrJSquared Жыл бұрын

When I was in Boy Scouts, we made staffs like that. We put marks on the staff for measuring. Inches for the first 6” or 12” then foot marks until a yard. This was in the US so it was standard measurements but it just as easily could have been metric.

@MarkYoungBushcraft Жыл бұрын

So simple and effective. I will be doing this. Thanks for commenting

@richardrudy2834 Жыл бұрын

Excellent video bud, alot of good information. 👍👍

@MarkYoungBushcraft Жыл бұрын

Glad you enjoyed it. Thanks for commenting

@Stoney_AKA_James Жыл бұрын

Great ideas Mark, I picked up a couple tips! I did cut two grooves in my staff, as per your previous video! So yes the hiking staff is very useful!

@MarkYoungBushcraft Жыл бұрын

Glad you found the video of value. Thanks for commenting

@ervinslens Жыл бұрын

Nice upload bud, demonstrated nicely. 👌👌

@MarkYoungBushcraft Жыл бұрын

Glad you enjoyed it. Thanks for commenting

@cassandralibertywest4310 Жыл бұрын

You're a genius! Thanks for the video. I enjoyed it!

@MarkYoungBushcraft Жыл бұрын

Thank you for your kind words

@cccccc4144 Жыл бұрын

great video

@MarkYoungBushcraft Жыл бұрын

Glad you enjoyed it. Thanks for commenting

@OmerTamer 8 ай бұрын

Wow! Never knew so much could be done with a walking stick before. Thank you, Mark, for giving great tips. Very useful.

@MarkYoungBushcraft 8 ай бұрын

Glad it was helpful. Thanks for commenting

@bigviper64 Жыл бұрын

I’veused mine for knocking down Spider Webbs crossing my pathway, all of the other points you have mentioned are spot on.

@MarkYoungBushcraft Жыл бұрын

I use for the same. Thanks for commenting

@toddlewis3075 Жыл бұрын

Thanks mate!

@MarkYoungBushcraft Жыл бұрын

Most welcome. Thanks for commenting

@johnsullivan6560 Жыл бұрын

Try attaching you lanyard directly to the staff with a Prisik knot. It will make your lanyard adjustable and holds very well under tension. You can make a very comfortable and secure hand grip using French hitching. Was a scoutmaster and taught my scouts this for our staves.

@MarkYoungBushcraft Жыл бұрын

Great idea. Thanks for commenting

@eyeofthetiger4184 Жыл бұрын

G'day Mark, some great uses and tips there mate and three points of contact, spot on. I like to have an integral Y fork on the top end to pin a snake's head if necessary, also provides some structure to attach a cross member should you need a crutch, (of course cut the staff down to suit your armpit height and use the offcut for the cross member); after all, next to blisters, a twisted ankle or knee are probably the most common of hiking injuries and being totally immobilized is the last thing you want. Alternatively, you have an instant splint if that's what's required. I really like what you've done to the tip to toughen it up and provide more grip, though I prefer to have the ability to carve a spear point, (or even a frog/fish gig, btw I reckon two prongs are enough and less likely to split out in use or construction), or a chisel edge for a digging stick at short notice. Oh yeah; the indigenous here in oz have long used a "woomera", (I believe its called something else in other cultures), to propel a spear further, faster and more accurately, (with practice, lol). Perhaps long winded, .....but you did ask, and rightly so IMO, I've already learned several new things from other commenters, as well as your good self. Many thanks all ; ) Cheers Duke.

@MarkYoungBushcraft Жыл бұрын

I believe the womera is similar to the atlatl as a spear thrower. I have not made one yet but have considered it. Thanks for commenting Duke

@paulyoung4814 Жыл бұрын

Enjoyed. Subscribed

@MarkYoungBushcraft Жыл бұрын

Glad you enjoyed it. Thanks for commenting

@andymytys Жыл бұрын

Another safety use for a staff would be testing how solid, and how deep, soft boggy/wetland areas are when going off trail in northern boreal forests.

@MarkYoungBushcraft Жыл бұрын

Yes, for sure

@charlotteelliott1852 Жыл бұрын

I wish someone would demonstrate how to walk with the stick . They look to awkward an tall to move each step Charlotte

@andymytys Жыл бұрын

@@charlotteelliott1852 when walking with the staff, I swing it and plant it forward, then sort of lean on it and walk to that spot; and repeat. I often switch which hand wields the staff. If the terrain is flat, I might just hold the staff in one hand, parallel to the ground. It’s definitely not like my trekking pole experience, where I’m planting a pole with each step.

@travismcgrath2403 Жыл бұрын

Seen a friend in high school fall into a bog. One second the ground was there, next step it wasn't. One of the craziest things I ever seen.

@YELKOVAN66 7 ай бұрын

Very useful video. Thank you for sharing.

@MarkYoungBushcraft 7 ай бұрын

Glad it was helpful! Thanks for commenting

@brucematys6064 Жыл бұрын

Another awesome video Mark, I really like the Y stick idea. Cheers my friend! Fyi I am currently catching on videos, as I am resting in the hospital after right hip replacement. Can't wait to get back on the trails

@MarkYoungBushcraft Жыл бұрын

I sincerely hope your recovery goes well. Take care

@Olyphoto7 Жыл бұрын

Well presented Mark! I have to remember the “Y” stick trick for next year’s blackberry harvesting. Thanks for sharing!

@MarkYoungBushcraft Жыл бұрын

Glad it was helpful! Thanks for commenting

@williamgardner2739 6 ай бұрын

I like your fork branch idea Mike, reminds me when I was young, (82 now) if I was in the wood`s and climbing a slippery slope i would hook it round a tree to help me up the slope. Thank you for reminding me.

@MarkYoungBushcraft 6 ай бұрын

Glad it was helpful. Thanks for commenting

@vicsar 4 ай бұрын

Fun stuff.

@MarkYoungBushcraft 4 ай бұрын

Glad you enjoyed. Thanks for commenting

@andymytys Жыл бұрын

Oftentimes, when I pass a water source I have to descend a steep bank to get to it (erosion and safety concerns), or I’m at a lake where getting water close to the bank means more sediment in the water. In both cases, I attach a collapsable bucket to my staff, and retrieve water in a way that keeps me safe and dry, with less silt to deal with.

@MarkYoungBushcraft Жыл бұрын

Now that is new and novel. I like it

@charlesknight3204 Жыл бұрын

Excellent idea!!! Hadn’t thought of that but a common sense natural use of the stick. God bless!!! Chuck Knight. 👨‍🌾✝️🙏🖖👍

@davidlee8551 Жыл бұрын

Thank you.

@MarkYoungBushcraft Жыл бұрын

Most welcome. Thanks for commenting

@lindawilson4625 Жыл бұрын

Thanks for the info. I'll check out your other video. Having a hiking staff seems like a good thing to have & use :-)

@MarkYoungBushcraft Жыл бұрын

Once you use one you will always take it with you. Thanks for commenting

@camilookuinghttons2690 Жыл бұрын

Thank you Mark! I agree totally with you: a long stick in the wild or the forest is a VERY useful tool,....and company!

@MarkYoungBushcraft Жыл бұрын

Totally agree! Thanks for commenting

@1683clifton Жыл бұрын

Very nice. We used to talk about and try this kind of stuff when I was ooa.

@MarkYoungBushcraft Жыл бұрын

Thanks for commenting

@eriktaylor5704 Жыл бұрын

Love the video. I’ve carried a six foot length of tulip poplar sapling for 3 years. It is an extremely light stick after proper seasoning and treatment. As a snake lover, I’ve used my staff as a herp hook, clearing the trail of branches, creating a makeshift shift fishing rod, a counter balance when hiking across logs over streams, and much more.

@MarkYoungBushcraft Жыл бұрын

All good suggestions. Thanks for commenting

@randyinscoe5780 Жыл бұрын

You could also use the Y-branch to pull yourself up steep terrain using trees or hooking the ground 😊

@MarkYoungBushcraft Жыл бұрын

Possibly, as long as you trust the attachment. Thanks for commenting

@TheSchella 7 ай бұрын

Another great video. Always interesting and to the point. Wish the rest of utube would be more like this. thanks.

@MarkYoungBushcraft 7 ай бұрын

Glad you enjoyed it! Thanks for commenting

@58singleman Жыл бұрын

Thank you Mark. I have drilled a 1/2 inch hole strait down into the top of my staff. I then filled the hole with an epoxy ( JB Weld ) and lead shot mix. I topped the stick with a copper pipe cap, also on with epoxy. I have used it only once in defending myself against an aggressive dog. Worked well. 98% of the time it's just my walking stick.

@MarkYoungBushcraft Жыл бұрын

Interesting idea. Thanks for commenting

@cheryldenkins1597 Жыл бұрын

Thank you! I knew I liked JB weld for a lot of reasons! Now you've given me another!

@mikelundrigan2285 Жыл бұрын

I have kept a staff with a y end in the back of my enclosed Pickup box for years to grab stuff beyond my reach and pull it towards me .. very easy and handy for that purpose!

@MarkYoungBushcraft Жыл бұрын

Great idea. Thanks for commenting

@tmo7734 Жыл бұрын

As usual Mark, a terrific video. Thanks and best wishes from the San Francisco Bay Area. - Tim

@MarkYoungBushcraft Жыл бұрын

Glad you enjoyed it. Thanks for commenting

@doctorkiwano Жыл бұрын

I keep a notch in the top of my staff that I can hang a hurricane lantern in, and take it (and the lantern that hangs in it) with me when i go to the beach for a night swim. Once there, I plant it into the sand so it stays upright, hang the lit lantern from it, and have a much easier time finding my way back to my towel and dry clothes when I'm coming back out of the water.

@MarkYoungBushcraft Жыл бұрын

Very cool idea. Thanks for commenting

@kiamichiozarks7056 Жыл бұрын

Good tips on this subject. 👍🏼 My father showed me how to use a hiking staff to ease down from large boulders and rocky crags in the hills, by putting the end of the staff on the level beneath him and then sliding down the staff while leaning forward, sorta like pole vaulting. It beats jumping down from six feet up.

@MarkYoungBushcraft Жыл бұрын

Good technique. I do pretty much the same thing. Thanks for commenting

@croakingtoad4472 2 ай бұрын

If you are a hunter, stand your staff upright and drill a 1/2 hole in the staff at a 45 degree angle downward at about shoulder height. Do not go all the way through, just. about halfway into the stick. Next, make a 6 inch toggle to fit into that hole making a "y" joint and you have a good makeshift monopod shooting stick.

@MarkYoungBushcraft 2 ай бұрын

Yes, I like that idea. Thanks for commenting

@ROBBANKS666666 Жыл бұрын

Awesome tips !!! I carry a bamboo staff.

@MarkYoungBushcraft Жыл бұрын

Glad you enjoyed it. Would like to try bamboo does not grow here. Thanks for commenting

@ROBBANKS666666 Жыл бұрын

@@MarkYoungBushcraft you’re lucky that it doesn’t grow there because it is invasive and takes up more property than it should , but it is very lightweight and flexible. I keep mine extra flexible by sealing it while it is green. It is so light weight that it is almost fun to carry.

@zeez4178 6 ай бұрын

Nicely explained ,🇬🇧

@MarkYoungBushcraft 6 ай бұрын

Thanks for commenting

@sirdee9607 Жыл бұрын

Great

@MarkYoungBushcraft Жыл бұрын

Thanks for commenting my friend

@OdeeOz Жыл бұрын

The Staff ... Walking stick, and a Bow are 2 of the easiest to buy, or make, and best survival tools for a Must Have survivalist hiker/hunter. The top 3 items in my survival gear, are a Victorinox pocketknife (similar to the Leatherman, but much more practical), a Walking stick, and take-down bow. A lot of people would be amazed at how much just that knife can do, in making anything from a Waterwheel, to Plates, Cups and eating utensils. 👍👍

@MarkYoungBushcraft Жыл бұрын

Thanks for commenting

@jamespaul2587 Жыл бұрын

Thanks for another great overview and demonstration Mark. If I didn't know you're a retired police officer I would have thought you were a teacher in your past life! :) Do you ever use those collapsible aluminum hiking poles, as I imagine they could have a number of uses also such as poles for tents or tarp shelters?

@MarkYoungBushcraft Жыл бұрын

I have telescopic poles but I use them mostly with snow shoes. I will be using them in an upcoming video to set up a tent. Thanks for commenting

@margaretwaters7715 Жыл бұрын

I am trying to go camping in my mini van and have full Intentions of taking my staff with me for many reasons, some of which you show. At my age....it is my sidekick, strength, security and balance when needed. love your videos ;)

@MarkYoungBushcraft Жыл бұрын

I so agree. My aging knees thank me every hike for taking a staff. Thanks for commenting

@runthomas 3 ай бұрын

this is amazing....this guy can do anything with a stick

@MarkYoungBushcraft 3 ай бұрын

Glad you enjoyed the video. Thanks for commenting

@agailframe6590 Жыл бұрын

Well presented, and learned a lot.

@MarkYoungBushcraft Жыл бұрын

Glad you found it helpful. Thanks for commenting

@stevecallaway8457 Жыл бұрын

Thank you for this information. I plan to prepare my sticks with the grooves and perhaps the screw on the end. Currently have a “rubber cane tip” on the end. Steve from E TEXAS

@MarkYoungBushcraft Жыл бұрын

Great ideas Steve. Thanks for commenting

@josephfore8631 Жыл бұрын

Hiked the Appalachian trail, and the long trail in Vermont and numerous smaller trails with mine. I would say it’s got close to 3000 miles on it. It wore down kind of short so I put a fiberglass foot on the bottom.

@MarkYoungBushcraft Жыл бұрын

Wow. Lots of history there. Thanks for commenting

@alf3553 Жыл бұрын

I like using hiking poles when I’m out on some of the steep trails. Lots of rock with just enough leaves & moss that without a staff or pole you’re probably going to wipe out. I’ve been thinking about making a 6 foot staff to use with my tarp or poncho, easy to cut it if I find it to long.

@MarkYoungBushcraft Жыл бұрын

Exactly, you can always make it shorter but not longer. Thanks for commenting

@erinhellebuyck7527 11 ай бұрын

Thank you

@MarkYoungBushcraft 11 ай бұрын

Most welcome. Thanks for commenting

@redsorgum Жыл бұрын

Great information, Mark. I could see using a shepherd’s staff that has the hook all ready built in it. I think I’ll try making a smaller version of the staff sling, I like the idea of using it as a sling shot. ✌️

@MarkYoungBushcraft Жыл бұрын

A shorter stick makes an easier to use sling staff. Thanks for commenting