The only thing you need for wild critters out here in the east is some parachute cord so you can hang your food in the shelters (mice and such) or in the trees if you happen to be near an habituated black bear. Animal problems out here are nothing like in California for example.
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A traditional, minimalist load-out for your Appalachian Trail thru-hike
- Thread starter mnblade
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The only thing you need for wild critters out here in the east is some parachute cord so you can hang your food in the shelters (mice and such) or in the trees if you happen to be near an habituated black bear. Animal problems out here are nothing like in California for example.
kamagong
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That's exactly where I'm located. The local wildlife museum has an exhibit on mountain lions, with displays on scat and tracks. Their range covers a large part of the state, including the areas where I live and go on day hikes. I've never seen one. But I have seen deer and according to rangers deer are one of the mountain lion's primary food sources. Given that animals go where the food is I have no doubt that there are mountain lions nearby.
- Christian
They're really not much of a problem Christian. Although TBH there are a ton of black bear in places up the east coast, like for instance my hometown in WV. They tend to be very shy except when trying to steal a meal. They get hunted a lot so there is a real fear of humans that most all of them have.
Still I can't fault anyone for wanting a good fixed blade for hiking. But if you made me carry a fixed blade on a hike where its duties would be this limited it would probably be on the lines of a BH Frontier or something along those lines. Kind of like a slip joint that was stuck open.
Will
I FOUND GRANNY GATEWOOD'S POCKET KNIFE!
I found it. After Mark's post, I got really curious. That's bad for me. But I spent some time digging around and came up with a book written by a guy named Larry Luxenberg, and tittled "Walking the Appellation Trail". On page 42 he talks about how he met Granny Gatewood's daughter, Esther Allen at a trail conference, and Esther answered many of his questions that had. Granny's pocket knife was described as a 9 tool Swiss Army Knife.
Imagine my disappointment. Here, all these years I'd imagined a tough old country gall, hiking the A.T. with a well seasosned old below in her jeans pocket, or at least a bone handled old jack with the jigging half worn away. Oh, the frailty of dreams. So Granny did carry a red handle Swiss wonder.
Carl.
I found it. After Mark's post, I got really curious. That's bad for me. But I spent some time digging around and came up with a book written by a guy named Larry Luxenberg, and tittled "Walking the Appellation Trail". On page 42 he talks about how he met Granny Gatewood's daughter, Esther Allen at a trail conference, and Esther answered many of his questions that had. Granny's pocket knife was described as a 9 tool Swiss Army Knife.
Imagine my disappointment. Here, all these years I'd imagined a tough old country gall, hiking the A.T. with a well seasosned old below in her jeans pocket, or at least a bone handled old jack with the jigging half worn away. Oh, the frailty of dreams. So Granny did carry a red handle Swiss wonder.
Carl.
Gerber Pixie: 32 grams, 55g (2 oz) with sheath. Just a tougher-than-average paring knife.
I would probably back it up with my Vic Ambassador for the scissors and tweezers, just because I don't own a Classic. (A couple of years ago I foolishly left my Primus cartridge stove set up overnight. When it wasn't working properly in the morning, I found that a spider had spun a web in the Venturi. The SAK tweezers worked perfectly to remove it.)
Definitely a sewing kit. The needles also serve for splinter removal. If I did not carry a SAK with a corkscrew, I would still carry the little eyeglass screwdriver.
I would probably back it up with my Vic Ambassador for the scissors and tweezers, just because I don't own a Classic. (A couple of years ago I foolishly left my Primus cartridge stove set up overnight. When it wasn't working properly in the morning, I found that a spider had spun a web in the Venturi. The SAK tweezers worked perfectly to remove it.)
Definitely a sewing kit. The needles also serve for splinter removal. If I did not carry a SAK with a corkscrew, I would still carry the little eyeglass screwdriver.
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None. Maybe a razor blade. You wont need it and doing that many miles you only want things you will NEED. Ultralight backpacking is one of my other hobbies and I personally carry a blade on most of my trips. But if I was going on a trip like the AT or PCT where you are basically hiking in a "suburban park" (I agree 
) I dont think I would bother carrying anything. Its not worth the weight penalty, I would rather add those ounces towards my sleeping system. Most of the folks I talk too on other forums IF they carry anything other then a razor blade it is usually a SAK Classic with the plastic side scales removed to save a few grams
Edited to add:
If I was forced to pick a knife, this would probably be it.
I have spent the majority of my time in the woods somewhere in the mountains of Northern California. I have come across bear, mountain lion and several other critters. Never once did or would a knife have made me feel safer. If protection from animals is what your after then I really suggest some research on bear spray, much more effective at saving ones life as well is the knowledge of how to behave when confronted by any of the animals in your local.
) I dont think I would bother carrying anything. Its not worth the weight penalty, I would rather add those ounces towards my sleeping system. Most of the folks I talk too on other forums IF they carry anything other then a razor blade it is usually a SAK Classic with the plastic side scales removed to save a few grams Edited to add:
If I was forced to pick a knife, this would probably be it.
I have spent the majority of my time in the woods somewhere in the mountains of Northern California. I have come across bear, mountain lion and several other critters. Never once did or would a knife have made me feel safer. If protection from animals is what your after then I really suggest some research on bear spray, much more effective at saving ones life as well is the knowledge of how to behave when confronted by any of the animals in your local.
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kamagong
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I can't find anything in writing. It may have just been advice from prudent and sensible rangers I've spoken with. But California's knife laws (open carry of fixed blades is legal, regardless of blade length) and the DFW's advice to fight back probably lead them to that logical conclusion.
I am not paranoid, I know it is unlikely that I will be attacked by bears, bobcats, or mountain lions. On the other hand I am no fool either. These are wild animals we are talking about, not cute and cuddly Disney creatures. We are entering their domain when we spend time in the outdoors. I am used to carrying a knife. If I can carry one that can handle my cutting needs and serve as a weapon (much better than my fingernails) and I don't mind the weight then I will do so.
- Christian
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I guess at my age, I quality for the tittle of Grandpa Gatwood.
If I were going to do this, I'd make full use of modern technology and light weight materials for tarp and pancho. Since campfires are strictly forbidden on most of the A.T., I won't be making any fires. That leaves out all the husky broad swords the survivalists swear by. I'd maybe bring the smallest alcohol stove I could find just for boiling water for morning oatmeal and evening freeze dried whatever.
Knives. Since it's mostly just walking up and down hills, on a well marked trail that by mid summer is more like a suburban park than a real wilderness, I'd go with what my normal suburban edc is. My peanut, a Pattadese, or an Opinel. Probably the most use for a knife on the A.T. is very similar to suburban use, opening packages and dealing with food. With no campfires, there's no chopping or other wood processing to do. For all those years I packed a Randall number 14, and used it to open a pouch of Mountain house Chicken Al La King to pour in some boiling water, was a total waste.
Well known back packer and author Colin Fletcher, who wrote the many versions of "The Complete Walker" used a Victorinox classic on many of his adventures. This is the guy who back packed the length of the Grand Canyon, so he's no rube of fake. Other times he carried a larger SAK, like a tinker. With modern light weight gear, there's really no need for much knife when back packing. By virtue of the sport, you already have shelter and sleeping already taken care of. I'd be going the Granny Gatewood route with as ultra light as I could. At my stage of life, a 20 pound load seems about it. Pass the big trash bags please!
Carl.
That is sad to hear.
Mark that off my list of places to go.
Kevin
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HAHHAHAA!
I just spoke to my brother last night for a while. He just got back from research in Australia and in two weeks he is going to Tanzania Africa. Shark fishing is his career and he told me the rivers he will be fishing are full of hippo. He asked me if I was finished making his machete and if I could make him a spear. HAHAHA, I said you need a BIG GUN. Anyhow, I am with you Christian, anything is better than my hands and I also agree with Jeff, if there is an effective defense why not pack it along
Kevin
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Christian, hope you did not take my post the wrong way. As you brought the subject up I was trying to respond in general, for any watching eyes. You said it best "These are wild animals we are talking about, not cute and cuddly Disney creatures. You would be surprised how many people dont honestly think this way and my family freaked out when I started camping with no "protection". This subject is close to heart and one I have had many times before. My apologies if I came off cross. Enjoy the mountains of CA, I sure miss them
kamagong
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HAHHAHAA!
I just spoke to my brother last night for a while. He just got back from research in Australia and in two weeks he is going to Tanzania Africa. Shark fishing is his career and he told me the rivers he will be fishing are full of hippo. He asked me if I was finished making his machete and if I could make him a spear. HAHAHA, I said you need a BIG GUN. Anyhow, I am with you Christian, anything is better than my hands and I also agree with Jeff, if there is an effective defense why not pack it along
Kevin
Who says I don't?
Christian, hope you did not take my post the wrong way. As you brought the subject up I was trying to respond in general, for any watching eyes. You said it best "These are wild animals we are talking about, not cute and cuddly Disney creatures. You would be surprised how many people dont honestly think this way and my family freaked out when I started camping with no "protection". This subject is close to heart and one I have had many times before. My apologies if I came off cross. Enjoy the mountains of CA, I sure miss them
No worries Jeff. I was just trying to clarify my position. Up until a few years ago I didn't give this subject much thought. I was a lot more carefree in the outdoors. But when listening to a docent explain the mountain lion exhibit with my three-year-old daughter it suddenly struck me that my little one, who at this stage in her life is a running fool, might just do a passable imitation of lunch (at least to a predatory animal).
- Christian
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I FOUND GRANNY GATEWOOD'S POCKET KNIFE!
So Granny did carry a
red handle Swiss wonder.
Carl.
Sometimes you confuse me Carl. I swear I have read where you were a big fan of the sak.
Jim
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Who says I don't?
No worries Jeff. I was just trying to clarify my position. Up until a few years ago I didn't give this subject much thought. I was a lot more carefree in the outdoors. But when listening to a docent explain the mountain lion exhibit with my three-year-old daughter it suddenly struck me that my little one, who at this stage in her life is a running fool, might just do a passable imitation of lunch (at least to a predatory animal).
- Christian
We have more in common on this subject the deeper we dive
Trying to bring knives back into my post I will add a little more. The reason I went ultralight in the world of backpacking was to free up space and room to carry more fun gear. With that said other then a cross country walk I am almost always carrying a blade in the woods. It changes like my daily carry but adds to my growing knowledge of knives in general. I think to be prepared in the woods a great folder will suffice though I would give the nod to a fixed blade if your not worried about carrying it. I have found that going to a tarp has made the knife all more important in my kit. If I carry a knife then I ditch stuff like tent stakes because I can make them.
I remember the first time I went camping alone with no knife. I was in the Trinity Alps trying to make it to Grizzly Lake by sundown. I was just at the halfway mark(8 miles) when I came to a stream crossing that was flowing way to fast for crossing without some walking sticks for balance. I went to draw my knife and my heart sank, my mind started racing to where I had misplaced it(upon returning to my truck I found it on the passenger seat). Left to break and mangle sticks by hand the rest of that hike all I could think about was how could I get by without it, so many chores require it. But my worry was for nothing and in retrospect it was more an inconvenience than anything, I learned I didnt NEED it but boy did I want it. Besides deep down the knife knut in me wont let me leave without a blade anymore even if it is small. This thread has been an enjoyable read for me as I feel passionate about the subject, thanks for sharing everyone.
Christian, back when I lived in the Monterey area, a buddy and I hiked into Ventana Double Cone from near Carmel. I recall being tired after a day of hiking in the rain and sitting on rock half dazed eating Pop Tarts and then smelling something gamey and getting the distinct feeling of being watched. A few weeks later driving on a military road south of that coming back from another hiking trip, my buddy had a cat cross the road. I was sleeping.
Rockgolfer, I'm partly intrigued by ultra light stuff. But not entirely sold on it. Hiked for many years with a cute little Camillus serpentine jack and other years with just a Victorinox Classic. Hard to whittle with a razor blade!
I'm not sure I would call the AT a suburban park. It is in some places but honestly, I find maintained trails to be maintained trails unless you get a couple of days from a road.
Rockgolfer, I'm partly intrigued by ultra light stuff. But not entirely sold on it. Hiked for many years with a cute little Camillus serpentine jack and other years with just a Victorinox Classic. Hard to whittle with a razor blade!
I'm not sure I would call the AT a suburban park. It is in some places but honestly, I find maintained trails to be maintained trails unless you get a couple of days from a road.
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To give a knife related contribution I believe I would take my Opinel 8 in cherry wood. Its crazy sharp, EASY to sharpen in the field, 1.22 ounces (not bad for so much grip and blade), strong, bomb proof construction and no lock to get in the way. I know from using it that it handles green wood like butter. As for the rest I don't know, I am not a hiker in this sense of the word. I feel I would love it since I grew up in the woods, but growing up in the woods I never had to go anywhere else for hikes.
This has been a cool discussion to me. Something I know very little about so its cool to hear the insights from experienced folks.
Kevin
This has been a cool discussion to me. Something I know very little about so its cool to hear the insights from experienced folks.
Kevin
Hey Guys I hiked the Appalachian trail in 1996 from end to end a complete through hike. It took me almost 6 months. I personally carried a Gerber folder and a Gerber multi tool needle nose style. All the hikers I hiked with also carried slip joints of some type and lots of hikers had the good old Swiss Army knife. The only people with fixed blades were looked at a little side ways. It's a close community and the hikers consider fixed blades and larger knifes to be a sign of some one not to be really trusted. A local hiker showed up at an AT camp site one evening and produced a large ka bar style knife to carve sticks, we all left and went to camp at another spot. All you need is a pocket knife of some type and you want a light one at that. You want to keep all your packed items as light as possible. My multi tool was a little on the large side but is was the most borrowed item in my pack. Its a wilderness style hiking experience it is not survival you don't need bush craft knives or skills trust me no one was cutting firewood or cleaning game on the trip. just opening MRE's and ramen noodles with a pocket knife.
But I am. I love my little classic, and made a keyring sheath to go on my keyring so I can't leave the house without it. I have an old WEnger SI that has done standby duty for over 20 years. But we're talkin' about Granny Gatewood, who at age 67 decided to do an epic hike. Given that she was an old farm gal, raised a passel of kids and grandkids, I just thought she have an old Schrade or even an old Case jack. I never thought that given the person and the era, it would be a SAK. Just didn't go with my metal picture of the lady.
But then I never expected to see a Victorinox executive as Chuck Yeager's sole back packing knife for his trips in the Sierra Nevada's.
Carl.