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Remember hierarchy:
Knowledge > Skills > Experience > Equipment
Best knife in world useless without knowledge of how to use it.
Worst knife in skilled hands accomplishes more than novice with custom blade.
Prioritize:
- Learn skills (fire, shelter, water, navigation)
- Practice extensively (technique over tools)
- Acquire quality essentials (knife, axe, shelter, sleep)
- Maintain properly (gear lasts decades if cared for)
Start with basics, add as needs clarify through experience.
The bushcrafter who carries less but knows more will always outperform the gear-laden novice.
Skills are weightless. Knowledge requires no batteries.
Everything else is support.
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