Preparing to Survive in the Flintlock Era | 18th Century Trekking Set Up & Gear Testing

In this video, I go over some of my updated 18th-century "trekking" and living history equipment as I prepare to do my best to survive in the 18th century. In the video, I discuss 18th century tents and tarps, bushcraft shelters, flint and steel fire starting, cooking breakfast over an open fire and making coffee with 18th century tools based on originals from the 1700s.

I set out this morning to practice with my gear and kit before I set out far from home. I wanted to get an understanding of my gear and see how it works in the real world. From here, I can plan and prepare a proper trek, hike, or camp with my 18th century gear.

As always, I'm learning and willing to learn from you. Leave a comment to let me know what you think and share any thoughts you might have with the rest of the group.

Gear List

8’x8’ Oiled Linen Tarp/Fly - Panther Primitives, Spring Valley Lodges

Tent stakes or “pins” - Riven Ash, originals were oak. Based on those found with Washington’s “First Oval Office”. Reference: https://www.facebook.com/FirstOvalOffice/photos/a.405033849595281.1073741830.395113067254026/788741891224473/?type=3&theater

Hemp Rope - Spring Valley Lodges, Townsends. My rope blocks are self-made out of riven ash.

Tulip Polar Ships Chest by Mike Yazel, The Iron Ram, https://www.etsy.com/shop/IronRamForge

Folding Skillet, Folding Grill - “The Backpacker” Folding Grill from Mike Yazel the Iron Ram, https://www.etsy.com/shop/IronRamForge (MY FATHER’S BUSINESS)

Water - MSR 10L Bag, I have 2: One for clean one for dirty water.

Period Water containers: Tin D or Kidney Canteen, Gourd canteen, 18th C. Glass Bottles, Horn Cups, Sheet Tin Cups.

Period Water Container Vendors/Makers: Townsends, Samson Historical, TurkeyFoot Trading, West Minster Forge

Pot/Boiler (19th Century) : Turkey Foot Traders, West Minster Forge

Alternatively, there are a variety of tin and brass 18th century kettles that would be more appropriate.

Market Wallet, or wallet: Self made, handsewn from cotton

Inside the wallet I have my cooking equipment on one half and onion, fruit, rice, meat, and dried coffee in the other

18th Century “Sleep System”: Simple white wool blanket. I can use my jacket or pack as a pillow if needed.