Thomas Utiger

Bushcrafter

with many years of experience in the outdoors

About me, Tom Utiger

My relationship with nature and how I experience it

Hello, my name is Tom...

and I have been a bushcrafter for over 30 years. My passion for life in nature began in my childhood. Back then, I spent every free minute in the forest, exploring the wilderness and learning how to survive in nature. These early experiences sparked my fascination for nature and bushcraft.

Over the years, I have continually expanded and perfected my skills. From making fire without modern tools to building shelters and gathering food in the wilderness - I have acquired extensive knowledge and practical skills. For me, bushcraft is more than just a hobby; it is a way of life and a way to connect deeply with nature.

On my homepage I would like to share my experiences and knowledge with you. Whether you are a beginner who is just taking your first steps into bushcrafting or an experienced adventurer looking for new challenges - here you will find tips, instructions and inspiration for your own adventure in the wilderness.

About 30 years ago...

my interest in bushcraft began. At that time it was less well known and not yet established as a trend, but I found a deep fascination for life and survival in nature early on

1. First steps:- My passion for nature was sparked by many hikes and camping trips with my family. I enjoyed spending time outdoors and quickly learned to feel comfortable in the wilderness. - As a teenager, I read books about survival techniques and outdoor adventures. Classics such as "SAS Survival Handbook" by John "Lofty" Wiseman and "Bushcraft" by Mors Kochanski gave me my first theoretical insights into the world of bushcraft.

2. Practical experience:- I started by practicing basic skills like fire making, tying knots, and building simple shelters. I started my first fire using a flint and steel, a skill that has served me countless times. - I experimented with different types of shelters, from simple tarp configurations to leaf huts, and spent many nights in the woods honing my skills.

Learning through observation and practice...

3.Learning through observation and practice: By observing and imitating experienced outdoor enthusiasts and bushcrafters, I was able to improve my techniques. I joined local outdoor groups and attended workshops where I learned from others and deepened my knowledge. - During this time, I also learned a lot about the local flora and fauna. Knowing which plants are edible and which have medicinal properties was an essential part of my bushcrafting arsenal.

4. Equipment and resources:- Back then, bushcrafting equipment wasn't as specialized as it is today. I improvised a lot with what I had available. A good knife, a sturdy backpack and a reliable sleeping bag were among my most important items. - I gradually invested in better equipment, but the focus was always on using nature and its resources and not relying on expensive gadgets.

Expanding my knowledge...

- I expanded my knowledge by traveling and exchanging ideas with other bushcrafters from different regions. Each environment brought new challenges and learning opportunities. - Books, documentaries and later the internet became valuable sources for constantly expanding my knowledge and keeping myself up to date with new techniques and trends in bushcraft.

This journey,which began 30 years ago, has taught me to respect and appreciate nature. Bushcrafting is more than just a hobby for me - it is a way of life that teaches me to be self-sufficient and creative while maintaining a deep connection to the natural world.

Dear Ejnar and Aron

I want to thank you both from the bottom of my heart for your love, your support and your friendship. You are my greatest treasures and I am so grateful to have you as my sons.

With all my love,
Dad.

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