Decoding the 2024 Pathfinder School Basic Class Gear List

10/6/2023 UPDATE:  It looks like the original video by Dave Canterbury has been taken down.  We are confident that he has his reasons.  He has replaced it with this video:  Basic Class Gear List 2024 EXPLAINED - YouTube  

Please like and subscribe Dave Canterbury's videos on YouTube.  He has a lot to teach everyone.

---Original post retained for reference---

David Canterbury, the renowned expert in camping, prepping, and bushcraft, recently released a video titled "Basic Class Gear List 2024 Cut through the BS!" As a confession--I've never been to Dave's class.  I'd like to someday!  Sure, this detail is great for those who take his class--but because Dave is so good at what he does, this information is good for everyone.  Watch the video and enjoy our notes--hope you find them useful!

In this comprehensive video, he provides valuable insights into the updated gear list for the 2024 Pathfinder School Basic Class. We'll break down the key takeaways from the video and highlight why these items are essential for any outdoor enthusiast or survivalist.

• Knife:  Full Tang, Four Inches or Longer with a 90-degree Spine:  Canterbury emphasizes the importance of a sturdy, full tang knife with a 90-degree spine for various survival tasks. He stresses that it doesn't have to be an expensive brand, but it should meet these criteria for durability and versatility.
• Folding Saw:  A folding saw, such as a Silky or Bahco Laplander, is recommended for cutting wood and other materials in the wilderness.
• Multi-Tool:  A multi-tool, like a Swiss Army knife or Leatherman, provides additional tools for various tasks, making it a valuable addition to your gear.
• Fire-Making Tools:
• Two Bic lighters: Ensure you have a reliable ignition source.
• A 6-inch Ferrocerium Rod: This large fire starter provides a reliable means of starting fires even in adverse conditions.
• Fresnel Lens: A credit-card-sized magnifying glass for starting fires using sunlight.
• Shelter System:
• Two 55-gallon drum liners (6 mil): These serve as ground sheets, emergency space blankets, and more.
• Military Poncho (MIL-SPEC): A versatile item that can be used as a shelter, clothing, and for various other purposes.
• Swagman Roll or Wooby Liner (optional in colder months): Provides warmth and insulation in winter conditions.
• Accordion-style sleep pad and Survival Bivy (optional in colder months): Enhance your comfort and warmth in winter camping situations.
• Water Containers and Filtration:
• Two water bottles and one cup: These containers are essential for carrying and boiling water.
• Mill Bank Bag: Used as a coarse filter for removing debris from water before boiling or purification.
• Cordage:
• 100 feet of Paracord: Useful for various tasks, including setting up shelter.
• 100 feet of Bank Line: Strong and versatile cordage for survival situations.
• Tent Stakes:  Six ABS tent stakes: Lightweight and functional for securing your shelter.
• Navigation/Compass:  A compass with features like a sighting mirror, adjustable declination, and magnifying glass is recommended for accurate navigation.
• Headlamp:  Headlamp with spare batteries or a rechargeable battery brick: Ensure you have a reliable light source for nighttime activities.
• Duct Tape:  A one-inch roll of duct tape serves as a versatile repair tool and is part of the fire kit.
• Bank Bag:  Used for carrying and filtering water resources.
• Hygiene Items, Personal Medications, and Snack Foods:  These items are essential for personal comfort and well-being during your outdoor adventures.
• Notepads and Pencils:  Useful for taking notes, documenting observations, or leaving messages in a survival situation.
• Gloves:  A pair of leather or canvas work gloves for hand protection during various tasks.
• Orange T-Shirt:  Functions as a signaling device and can be used for additional insulation or protection.

David Canterbury emphasizes that while these specific gear recommendations are based on his extensive experience, you can choose any brand or product that meets the criteria he outlines. The focus is on functionality, reliability, and preparedness. Whether you're attending the Pathfinder School Basic Class or planning your outdoor adventures, having the right gear is essential for safety and survival.

Our review

There are some strenghts and weaknesses to this list, so we wanted to highlight some of those findings.

Strengths

1. Emphasis on Functionality: One of the standout features of this gear list is its emphasis on functionality over brand loyalty. Canterbury stresses that the specific brand of gear is not as important as whether it meets certain criteria. This approach allows for flexibility and affordability when assembling your gear.
2. Comprehensive Cover Elements: The gear list addresses the essential components of shelter, including ground sheets, space blankets, ponchos, and wooby liners. This comprehensive approach ensures that you're well-prepared for various weather conditions and emergencies.
3. Fire-Making Tools: Canterbury's recommendation of fire-starting tools, including two lighters, a Ferrocerium Rod, and a Fresnel Lens, is comprehensive and reliable. Fire is crucial for warmth, cooking, and signaling in survival situations.
4. Cordage Management: The inclusion of both paracord and bank line, along with guidance on creating a cordage management system, demonstrates the importance of versatile cordage in various survival tasks.
5. Navigation Tools: The recommended compass with essential features ensures accurate navigation, a critical skill for wilderness survival.
6. Lightweight and Compact: Most of the gear items are lightweight and compact, making them easy to carry and transport. The emphasis on lightweight gear is practical for hikers and campers.
7. Versatility of Chamogs: Canterbury's recommendation of shemaghs (chamogs) and an orange T-shirt highlights their versatility for multiple purposes, including insulation, signaling, and hygiene.
8. Ease of Assembly:  The gear list, as presented by Canterbury, is relatively easy to assemble. Many of the items are readily available at outdoor supply stores or online retailers. Since the focus is on functionality rather than brand names, you have the flexibility to choose products that fit your budget and preferences. The list's simplicity and versatility make it accessible to both beginners and experienced outdoor enthusiasts.

Shortcomings

Of note--Dave Canterbury doesn't say "don't have food" or "don't have a first aid kit" ... he just doesn't cover the items in this specific video.  I'm not concerned myself, but it is worth mentioning that anyone who just uses this video without other resrouces will have items missing.

• Lack of Food and Cooking Equipment: The gear list does not include food or cooking equipment. While it's understandable to leave this out for simplicity, it's crucial to mention that food and cooking gear are essential for extended survival situations. It's advisable to pack lightweight, high-calorie snacks and a compact cooking system if your adventure requires them.
• First Aid Kit: A basic first aid kit is notably absent from the list. In real-life survival situations, injuries can occur, so it's essential to carry a basic first aid kit with essentials like bandages, antiseptics, and pain relievers.
• Water Purification: While a Mill Bank Bag is recommended for coarse filtration, it's essential to mention the need for water purification tablets, filters, or other methods for making water safe to drink. This is a critical aspect of survival.

Final reactions

Overall, David Canterbury's 2024 Pathfinder School Basic Class Gear List is a valuable resource for those interested in outdoor survival and bushcraft. His emphasis on understanding the functionality of each item and the importance of being prepared is commendable. While the list covers many critical aspects of survival, it's essential to customize it to your specific needs and be mindful of additional items like food, first aid, and water purification. By doing so, you can ensure that you're well-prepared for any adventure or unexpected survival scenario.