Bushcraft Terminology
When starting a new hobby it can be daunting to hear a load of words you don’t know the meaning of. Bushcraft is no different and even though it’s one of those things that you can mostly teach yourself, there will be words you might not be able to easily find the meaning of. To help you out a little, here are some of the most commonly used words in Bushcraft terminology.
Core Bushcraft Terms
1. Bushcraft
Definition: The skills and knowledge required to live and survive in natural environments, particularly wilderness areas, but focused more on being comfortable in nature instead of having to do things to survive.
Example: Fire-starting, foraging, and knot-tying are fundamental aspects of bushcraft.
2. Survival
Definition: The skills needed to stay alive in a situation where your life is in danger.
Example: Doing things because you need to in order to survive, such as finding a clean natural water source to drink from instead of “safe” water, or building a shelter as quickly and easily as possible instead of making something comfortable.
3. Shelter
Definition: A structure or natural formation used to protect oneself from the elements.
Example: Common types include lean-tos, debris shelters, and tarp shelters.
4. Tinder
Definition: Dry, easily combustible material used to start a fire.
Example: Examples include dried grass, birch bark, or cotton balls coated with petroleum jelly.
Navigation Terms
5. Bearing
Definition: A direction or path relative to a fixed point, usually measured in degrees using a compass.
Example: Setting a bearing of 90° will guide you due east.
6. Dead Reckoning
Definition: A navigation technique where you estimate your position based on a previously known location, speed, and direction.
Example: Dead reckoning can be useful when landmarks or GPS signals are unavailable.
7. Orienteering
Definition: The practice of navigating using a map and compass.
Example: Orienteering is a vital skill for wilderness expeditions.
Firecraft Terms
8. Feather Stick
Definition: A stick shaved into fine curls, used as tinder for fire-making.
Example: Feather sticks are useful when natural tinder is scarce.
9. Bow Drill
Definition: A traditional friction fire-starting tool using a bow-shaped stick, a spindle, and a fireboard.
Example: The bow drill is a classic bushcraft skill requiring patience and technique.
10. Firesteel
Definition: A metal rod that produces sparks when struck with a piece of steel, used for igniting fires.
Example: Firesteels are reliable in wet conditions compared to matches.
Shelter-Building Terms
11. Lean-To
Definition: A simple shelter made by propping one side of a roof structure against a standing tree or framework.
Example: A lean-to is ideal for quick protection against rain.
12. Ridge Line
Definition: A rope or cord strung between two trees to support a tarp or shelter.
Example: A ridge line is essential for setting up tarp shelters.
13. Guide Line
Definition: A rope or cord used to stabilize a tent or tarp against the wind.
Example: Guidelines should be secured with taut-line hitches for easy adjustment.
Tool-Related Terms
14. Bushcraft Knife
Definition: A versatile knife designed for tasks like carving, cutting, and preparing food.
Example: A bushcraft knife often has a full tang for durability.
15. Ferrocerium Rod (Ferro Rod)
Definition: A fire-starting tool that produces high-temperature sparks when scraped.
Example: Ferro rods are lightweight and reliable in damp conditions.
16. Hatchet
Definition: A small axe used for chopping wood and splitting kindling.
Example: A hatchet is an indispensable tool for building shelters.
Foraging and Food Terms
17. Edible Wilds
Definition: Plants, fungi, or insects that can be safely consumed.
Example: Identifying edible wilds like dandelions or chanterelle mushrooms is a critical foraging skill.
18. Snare
Definition: A trapping device used to catch small animals for food.
Example: Snares are typically made from wire or cord and require knowledge of animal trails.
19. Cache
Definition: A hidden storage of food or supplies.
Example: Caching supplies ensures sustenance during extended stays in the wilderness.
Miscellaneous Terms
20. Batoning
Definition: A method of splitting wood by striking the back of a knife blade with another piece of wood.
Example: Batoning is useful when you need smaller pieces of wood for kindling.
21. Campfire Ring
Definition: A designated area for a fire, often surrounded by stones for containment.
Example: Always build your fire within a campfire ring to prevent wildfires.
22. Trailblaze
Definition: Marking a path or route through the wilderness for navigation.
Example: Trailblazing can involve carving symbols into trees or tying ribbons to branches.
23. Bug-Out Bag (BOB)
Definition: A backpack containing essential supplies for survival in emergencies.
Example: A bug-out bag typically includes a first aid kit, water, and fire-starting tools.
24. Vista
Definition: A clear and often scenic view of the surrounding landscape, usually from a high point or through a break in dense vegetation.
Example: When hiking to a summit, the vista provides an excellent opportunity to survey the terrain.
25. Peninsula
Definition: A piece of land surrounded by water on three sides but connected to the mainland on the fourth.
Example: A peninsula can be an ideal camping spot, offering access to water for fishing and scenic views.
26. Archipelago
Definition: A group or chain of islands clustered together in a body of water.
Example: Exploring an archipelago offers unique challenges, such as navigating water routes and finding resources on individual islands.
Bushcraft is a multifaceted discipline, and understanding its terminology is the first step toward mastering wilderness survival skills. Whether you’re planning an overnight camping trip or an extended adventure into the backcountry, knowing these terms will enhance your preparedness and confidence. So next time you encounter a scenic vista or set up a ridge line for your tarp, you’ll have the vocabulary—and the skills—to make the most of your experience.
