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When all your fuel and light are gone, a pitch torch becomes your last resort. Learn how to craft an emergency torch from natural resin, bark, or oily wood — even without pre-melted sap or pine cones — using materials found in any U.S. environment.

Bushcraft is more than learning to build shelters or light fires — it’s about developing the mindset to keep going when things get tough. As Ray Mears said, “hidden in amongst all of these skills is something else — the business of never giving in.” Each challenge in the wild, from a failed fire to a long night under the rain, teaches patience, problem-solving, and resilience. Through every small struggle, bushcraft shapes not just your outdoor skill but your inner strength — reminding you that true survival starts with refusing to give up.

After pitching your tarp and setting up camp, what comes next defines how well you adapt to the wild. From gathering firewood and securing gear to purifying water and organizing tools, your first post-setup habit says a lot about your readiness as an outdoorsman. Learn how these small routines build discipline, safety, and comfort in the wilderness — and discover what other bushcrafters do once their camp is set.

Fatwood is resin-rich heartwood from pine trees that lights easily, burns hot, and stays reliable even in wet conditions. Learn its properties, history, and how to collect and use it as a natural fire starter for bushcraft and survival camping.