Description
Core Bushcraft is a comprehensive sourcebook of wilderness living skills, bringing together decades of experience teaching bushcraft and travelling in wild places.
This book is an accessible guide to key bushcraft skills for campers, hikers, paddlers, hunters and anyone who is interested in being more self-reliant in the great outdoors.
Kirtley, one of the leading bushcraft educators globally has been teaching outdoor knowledge through courses, demonstrations and presentations for more than two decades. Core Bushcraft is his second book and it focusses on what he considers to be the core set bushcraft skills and knowledge.
You’ll begin by learning about the use of cutting tools and core woodcraft skills, then move onto a comprehensive guide to the most distinctly human of outdoor skills, firecraft, before learning about sheltercraft, bindcraft, and natural navigation. You’ll learn about procuring food and water, as well as identifying essential plants and trees, all while avoiding hazards and missteps.
This is a coherent collection of eminently practical know-how, across a range of topics and skill-sets, which together form a core of bushcraft competency for the well-rounded outdoorsperson.
Size: 22.4cm x 25.8cm (8 1/2″ x 10″) | 600 colour photos | 208 pages | ISBN: 9780764367595
CHAPTERS
- Woodcraft
- Firecraft
- Sheltercraft
- Water Procurement and Processing
- Cordage and Bindcraft
- Useful Trees and Plants
- Procuring Fish and Small Game
- Natural Navigation
- Clothing and Equipment
Charlie Boyle (verified owner) –
Highly detailed guide to the fundamentals of bushcraft, well laid out and an easy to follow format.
Derek Hagan (Scouts Bushcraft) (verified owner) –
Wow, what a fantastic book! It really does exactly what it says on the cover. It covers the core principles of bushcraft with clear, practical guidance and some excellent images. Without a doubt, one of the best bushcraft books of its kind I’ve ever seen. Highly recommended!
James Francis (verified owner) –
Received it yesterday and I’m more than pleased with it, it’s lay out is absolutely brilliant.
No fluff in there like so many other books I’ve purchased in the past, just great information and knowledge …
Will be great to refer back to when needed..
true to the cover it really does cover all the core principles, the pictures are laid out extremely well and it’s easy to navigate…
I wasn’t asked for a review but hear it is, because…Well.. It genuinely is that good 👍🏻. I actually own both this one and the wilderness axe skills and campcraft books, both anre great books and complement eachother perfectly giving you a good solid base to build up your skills and return to of needed..
Recommend… definitely all day long.. five stars because there isn’t more..
Already had to send the link for a copy to three of my friends, picking up copies for xmas… speaks volumes…
barry mcclean –
Amazing book a real work of art
michael Stephenson (verified owner) –
Not received my copy as yet but if it’s as good as the other books I’ve already got it’s going to be great
Scott (verified owner) –
Absolute quality, can’t recommend enough, brilliant 👍🏻
michael vaughan (verified owner) –
An absolute brilliant 2nd book by Paul , the book does exactly what it says in the tin Core Bushcraft , everything you require in a fantastic hard back so you won’t damage it on your travels . Congratulations Paul
Andy Kirk (verified owner) –
The quality of this book is outstanding. The content, layout, organisation and photography are all top-notch. It goes very well with the Axe Skills book and both are valuable reference resources.
Great job.
Kirkland Baptie (verified owner) –
This book is a wonder and a long time coming. Firstly the physical book. Amazing cover, set out, with loads of lovely colour photos well taken. The books paper is thick and glossy. Nice all round.
The content is exemplary as a standard for core techniques in bushcraft, all you need to know and what to practice when you are out and about. It’s a book which is made to facilitate learning the skills and safe use of equipment in the outdoor bushcraft environment. A treasure indeed.
René Terpstra (verified owner) –
A great book, full of clear, practical instructions on general bushcraft techniques. Also a joy to read and a nice addition to Wilderness Axe Skills and Campcraft.
Good job again, Paul.
Kenny Noble (verified owner) –
Just received my copy of the Core bushcraft book and so far it’s looking awesome.
Great layout, detailed pic’s and lot’s of invaluable information.
James Jones (verified owner) –
Received shortly after purchasing, the packaging was of a very high quality, protecting the book.
Due to training with Staffordshire Bushcraft CIC, I only managed so far, to browse through the book, which re-inforces a weekend training with the Author earlier this year.
Its really set out in a manner, that gives a clear understanding of the subject manner, supported by images and will be a valuable learning aid, whilst continuing my journey with Bushcraft and associated experience.
Thank you so much!
Mike Evans (Bushscout UK) (verified owner) –
Absolutely brilliant, a great addition to the PK library. Between the two books a very comprehensive guide to all core bushcraft skills. Easy reading and you can hear Paul’s voice as you read! Excellent, as expected from such a natural gifted teacher🙂
Mel Saul (verified owner) –
Book arrived as expected. The quality was far better than I expected. I have only read the introduction and flipped through the remainder of the book and look forward to reading it
philip craig (verified owner) –
Not read it all but from what i have read I can honestly say its a great read , very informative , excellent photography and quality print . I’m not surprised from Mr Kirtley . Ps love the inscription and thank you . Carn’t wait for the next one .
Bruce D Zawalsky (verified owner) –
Book Review of Paul Kirtley’s new book, Core Bushcraft
Core Bushcraft, a Wilderness Living Sourcebook, is a written journey illustrated with pictures that teaches the basic or core, skills you need to survive. It then allows you to either learn or build up the skills you need to survive comfortably when stranded. Paul Kirtley, the author, is a rare individual; part artist, part craftsman and part scientist. He really is a rare mix, an individual who has journeyed, taught and guided on multiple continents and is equally at home in the forests of the United Kingdom, or the Boreal Forests of Canada or Scandinavia. His Beautiful photographs come alive on nearly every page, scientifically illustrating the core bushcraft principles.
The book is well organized, broken down into nine Chapters. Right up front are his four Essential Chapters: Woodcraft, Firecraft, Sheltercraft and Water Procurement and Processing. These expertly crafted chapters are the catalyst for learning essential skills. They present each of these subjects in a clear and comprehensive manner. The six following chapters add important skills and the background knowledge needed to thrive, not just survive, in the northern forests of three continents. This book is well titled, as it is indeed a wilderness living source book.
I especially liked the water procurement and processing chapter. Paul highlights the challenges and essential facts required for us to survive being trapped in the wilderness and avoid becoming sick while we travel. Without water, we cannot survive, and the knowledge to search for and purify water is well presented in these pages. As well as the chapter on Useful Trees and Plants. This section clearly points out the essential trees and plants most commonly found in the UK, and in European or North American Boreal Forests. He emphasizes plants that are commonly found, easily identifiable, and useful for common survival and bushcraft situations.
Paul did a fantastic job of laying out and presenting essential survival skills and secondary bushcraft skills, both wonderfully illustrated with pictures, mostly taken by the author while teaching on his own bushcraft courses. One aspect I particularly love about this book it shows a real master bushcraft instructor teaching real students over a long period in real teaching environments, instead of the usual basic illustration of what someone would like to have done or just poorly copied from an older source. This book and Paul Kirtley are the real thing.
Core Bushcraft should be added immediately to every Bushcraft or Survival Skills library. Read it, enjoy the boost to your skills, regardless of your present skill level and then place it squarely in the middle of your bookshelf so you can pull it out on a regular basis. Enjoy the read.
Bruce Zawalsky, CD
Author of Canadian Wilderness Survival and Chief Instructor of the Boreal Wilderness Institute
Mr Peter Wood –
Just superb. The quality of writing is fantastic, clear and concise. The photos are gorgeous. I’ve read through once and was delighted with all the nuggets of useful info. I am now reading it again. Inspiring!
Trevor Bailey (verified owner) –
Another fantastic book from Paul.
I’ve not read it all through yet, but from what I’ve seen glancing through, the content, writing and illustrations are all top quality.
Mark Bellinger (verified owner) –
Another superb book from Paul. What I particularly love is his meticulous attention to detail—the care that goes into explaining and illustrating the skills really shines through. The clear writing, excellent photographs and thoughtful layout make it a pleasure to read and a valuable reference to return to.
I already own his previous book, Wilderness Axe Skills and Campcraft, which is a stellar piece of work, so I had high expectations for Core Bushcraft. It certainly hasn’t disappointed. Paul’s enthusiasm for his subject and commitment to sharing his knowledge come through on every page.
Highly recommended—and I can’t help wondering what’s coming next!
Gavin Henry –
Really enjoying the book so far, stunning pictures and really easy to follow along and understand. There’s no other book on the market where you can get this level of hard earned knowledge and this level of detail.
Angela Knisely-Marpole (verified owner) –
Excellent book, not only are the illutrations excellent, but the packaging was 100%. The information is well presented and easy to understand.
Michael U (verified owner) –
Yet another great book. Very easy to follow step by step instructions, backed up by great pictures. Some really solid advice on techniques for the beginner up. I’d highly recommend
Mark Hotson (verified owner) –
As you would expect , Paul’s latest book ‘Core Bushcraft’ is a fantastic resource for anyone interested in Bushcraft, Wilderness Living , Survival , Camping or spending time in nature. I highly recommend it , superb photography, well laid out and a perfect addition to any book collection. 5 Stars ! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Shaun Blake (verified owner) –
Have received my book and it looks well laid out and excellent content, only briefly read bits cannot wait to get some time and give it a good read, great quality book have both books now and this is an excellent addition
Nate Snavely (verified owner) –
Strategic, measured, and nuanced in both selection and arrangement, with Paul’s characteristic style and personality evident throughout. Having enjoyed and benefited from his freely shared knowledge for many years, it’s a pleasure to own this beautifully crafted volume. A delight to read for a few minutes before bed during a busy workweek, when the heart and mind long for something other than another day at the grindstone.
Jerry (verified owner) –
A superb book covering a wide range of bushcraft topics & featuring loads of high quality photos. It’s a quality standalone book or as a companion to Frontier Bushcraft courses. Thanks Paul for another great product.
Alan Crowe (verified owner) –
I have gone through this book cover to cover and 1 word springs to mind FANTASTIC really easy to follow step by step guiding brilliant pictures to follow and a enjoy to read again Paul thank you for a great book .
Alan (verified owner) –
I have gone through this book cover to cover and 1 word springs to mind FANTASTIC really easy to follow step by step guiding brilliant pictures to follow and a enjoy to read again Paul thank you for a great book .
Stuart Vyner (verified owner) –
great book cannot do it justice here. Just buy it and read it.
Michael S Conway (verified owner) –
Another informative work from one of the tops in the field, the book is laid out well and really well done. Thank you Paul for your time and expertise.
Robin Killingsworth (verified owner) –
Excellent book well laid out easy to follow
Donnie Phair –
You know the way you pick up a book or watch a video on something and something you’ve read or seen makes a massive change instantly – that’s this book. Its just unreal – perfect for those starting out and even those with a wealth of knowledge already. The book is just sublime – perfectly laid out with clear instructions and tutorials with clean bright photos backing up the concise wording so it all makes sense. This book is going to be one that bushcrafters and outdoors people will keep reaching for. I cannot praise it enough.
In regards to ordering it, I ordered it as a pre-order and I received numerous emails for my pre-order giving me updates etc and letting me know when it was posted. When it was posted, it arrived quickly. I live in Northern Ireland too which does cause issues normally with post coming from the UK but no issues in this case. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Neil Robinson –
Great book for anyone interested in bushcraft experienced or new to it . Well laid out easy to follow with the detailed well thought out fantastic photos. Well worth the money and going to be a well used go to part of the book shelf .
Eelke Bakker (verified owner) –
A First-Class Guide to the Fundamentals of Bushcraft
This is not an advertisement or an influencer endorsement, but a genuine recommendation based on my own experience and appreciation of Paul Kirtley’s work.
In my opinion, Core Bushcraft ranks among the very best bushcraft and survival books I have read. It provides a thorough and accessible guide to the fundamental skills and techniques of bushcraft.
Over the past few years, I have had the pleasure of attending several courses at Frontier Bushcraft, the school founded by Paul Kirtley in 2003. I have also learned a great deal from his many articles and podcasts, so I was particularly pleased to discover that this new book reflects the same approach that I have come to appreciate through his teaching.
The book is knowledgeable, well structured and firmly grounded in practical experience. It explains essential outdoor skills in considerable depth while remaining clear and accessible. Numerous photographs complement the explanations, covering a wide range of subjects, including knife and axe skills, fire lighting, shelter building, finding and purifying water, fishing, hunting, and much more.
Core Bushcraft is both informative and a pleasure to read. For anyone who enjoys spending time outdoors and wants to develop a solid foundation in bushcraft, I can wholeheartedly recommend it.
Nick Peers (verified owner) –
Paul Kirtley’s Core Bushcraft is a valuable resource for bushcraft enthusiasts, whether you’re a beginner or experienced. The book includes numerous clear photographs and detailed instructions for each skill or project. I particularly enjoyed the chapters on water procurement and processing and natural navigation. I was eagerly anticipating this book’s release and I’m delighted to say it lived up to my expectations. As with Paul’s other book “Wilderness Axe Skills and Campcraft”, it’s a must-read for anyone interested in bushcraft.
Richard Doyle (verified owner) –
Paul Kirtley’s Core Bushcraft is a must for anyone’s library. This beautifully put together book is a fantastic source of information about the essentials of bushcraft. The photography and explanations are excellent. I would highly recommend this book to both experienced or novice bushcraft enthusiasts alike. The book works really well as an additional resource for Paul’s online courses. I am very pleased with my copy. 5 stars!
Cormac McGrane (verified owner) –
I recieved my copy of this book last week. It is a beautifully presented piece of work. I’m looking forward to working through it over the coming months. It is a great resource book. Everything you need is in one place. This has been one of the best books on the subject that I’ve bought on this topic.
Derek L Pearce (verified owner) –
Like the Man himself, this book in precise, informative, and straight to the point.
The key fundamentals are all there, the wood, the tools, the cordage and home.
Catching your meal preparing and cooking it.
Campcraft, water procurement, foodprep, tree and plant identification and usage.
If there was a comparison to be made it would have to be Larse Kohansky and Ray Meers all rolled into one. That having been said, there is no comparison to be made Paul Kirtley is a force unto himself as a Man borne to be wild.
Sue (verified owner) –
Everything from ordering to delivery was perfect. I’ve had a quick look, but it is a present for my son. He is an Explorer Scout Leader and so passionate about bushcraft etc. His degree was in this, he will love it. Thank you
D.watts (verified owner) –
Another fantastic book from Paul, with great detailed descriptions and as always with Paul’s books actual real pictures no terrible drawings like some. I have been interested in this subject for over 40 years but you can always learn something new, that’s the beauty of it. Another fantastic book from Paul , I highly recommend this to anyone interested in this fascinating subject.
John Cumming (verified owner) –
Everythng said above is true. this book is utterly fantastic. covers everything. Paul is a great teacher and his training courses out in the woods are where some of my life’s favourite memory’s were made. these jump from the chapters and bring a real warm sense of the gift of the ideas. get outside, practice this stuff, notice things. its a kilo of therapy!!
Dave Mellor (verified owner) –
“Core Bushcraft” is an excellent 2nd book written by Paul and follows on nicely from
Paul’s first book “ Wilderness Axe Skills and Campcraft”.
“Core Bushcraft”is divided into chapters that nicely dovetail together covering a wide range of subjects with excellent depth and detail on subjects plus very good close up photography on each page.
Overall this is an excellent book.
Piotr Fortuna (verified owner) –
“The book ‘Core Bushcraft’ is beautifully produced, signed, and well worth reading and keeping. Professional delivery and great communication. Highly recommended!”
Jeff Little (verified owner) –
Received my Core Bushcraft book direct from the author.
Initial impressions are of the quality of the book itself, hardback, well bound, and high quality lustre pages.
The author, Paul Kirtley is well known within professional bushcraft circles, being a senior instructor for Ray Mears Woodlore school, before branching out on his own.
If you read the section on knife selection, Paul has provided excellent photographs of a selection of knives that a beginner, or ‘expert’ may come across.
You will notice two knives designed by Paul himself, the PK1 and the PK2, I mention this because they are shown amongst more common knives, and in the text, he not only doesn’t going into details of his knife designs, he doesn’t even mention them! That’s the measure of Paul Kirtley, the information throught the book is for you, the reader, the bushcraft student, at any level, not a platform for the author to promote his products.
I own a PK1, if you’re a professional that’s going into the wilderness with minimal back up, there isn’t a better knife made, fact!
The book continues in it’s clear, unbiased description of the core elements of bushcraft, accompanied by excellent colour photographs.
This book is exactly what I hoped it would be …. exceptional!
I can only hope that, anyone with the slightest in bushcraft, will buy this book, and study every page.
Knowledge is confidence.
Jeff Little RM Ret
Anders (verified owner) –
Pure quality, in both content and aesthetics
Vicki Zacharia (verified owner) –
I’ve received my signed copy of Core Bushcraft here in Australia. What a fantastic book! So much detailed information accompanied by excellent photos. I loved that the photos were from all over the world.
Paul, you’re an amazing teacher and just a great human. Thank you for creating such a wonderful book.
Euan Phillips (verified owner) –
Really good book if you’re into bushcraft and the outdoors. It’s easy to get into and has loads of useful information about survival skills and being out in the wild. Definitely worth a read if you’re into camping, bushcraft or just want to learn more outdoor skills. Would recommend!
Terry edwards (verified owner) –
I prefer ordered this book as I enjoyed Paul’s previous book ” axe skills and campcraft” so much.
It arrived early with Paul keeping me upto date on the entire process.
THIS BOOK DOES NOT DISAPPOINT!.
I have read through it twice already, a fantastic quality product which is laid out in an easy to read and highly informative without overloading the reader with information which is not necessary.
It is to the point.
Laid out perfectly.
Very high quality both in terms of subject matter and the book itself.
Paul kirtley ranks up alongside the very few in numbers a master of his craft and this shines through on every page you turn over.
Freek Strebe (verified owner) –
This book is a joy to read and look in. Inspires you to want to go outdoors and practice. All made simple and understandable for novices and experts – what does not mean it is easy to to accomplish. Paul’s love for his profession and craft, not to mention his experience of decades is palpabel on every page. Highly recommended!
kev (verified owner) –
Another great book from Paul. it really is essential reading for any bush crafter
Howard Houlston (verified owner) –
As with Paul’s Axe Skills book I am really impressed with the quality of the publication. There is clear instruction and excellent photography throughout and a wealth of knowledge on a wide range of bushcraft topics. I find it especially useful to dip into different sections and there are always a few nuggets in there that I may have forgotten or not even been aware of to start off with. Highly recommended for anyone who has an interest in the outdoors and spending more time in it!
Stuart Elley (verified owner) –
Core Bushcraft by Paul Kirtley contains detailed step by step instruction combined with exceptionally clear colour photography.
It is essential information from a reliable source.
There is much to be learned from its 208 pages.
All the best with the distribution of your new book Paul.
An excellent contribution to Bushcraft literature.
Regards Stuart
Gerry Barrett. (verified owner) –
What do I think about the book?…..well the book mark says it all. “Inspiring through expert knowledge” What have I found useful? Knife choice and safe use of knives. It’s a hot topic in scouting here in ireland. What is particularly useful Sharpening your knife easy to understand. Working with flame excellent followed by shelter setup. Wasn’t surprised to see water next. Loved the sections on plants, trees, fishing and trapping very well documented. That’s as far as I’ve gotten.. loving it Paul and team. Great piece of work. Thank you.
Mike Walker (verified owner) –
Nailed it Mr Kirtley. 🙂
Simon May –
This is a brilliant book. A comprehensive step-by-step guide to key skills needed in the outdoors. I really like the close-up photographs that take you through each subject. As with Paul’s first book, the layout is beautiful, and the explanations are clear and thorough. It’s an inspirational book you won’t want to put down until you’ve read it cover to cover.
David (verified owner) –
There is so much to recommend about Core Bushcraft: the comprehensive yet clear instruction on a wide range of topics, the generous amount of pleasant and helpful photos, down to the quality of the materials and binding of the book itself. It’s clear that Paul put a lot of care into making sure the information was conveyed in a useful and well-organized manner. I also appreciate that he included topics often overlooked or covered only briefly in other bushcraft books, such as game preparation and natural navigation. All in all a very well-done volume covering all the fundamentals, typical of Paul’s emphasis on pragmatism and attention to detail. I hope there will be a book covering intermediate or advanced skills at some point in the future as well.
Peter Boras (verified owner) –
I really enjoyed Paul’s new book. It felt like I was learning from a friend who genuinely loves being outdoors and wants to share that passion with others. What stood out to me the most was how clearly he explains, not just the skills themselves, but also the thinking behind them. That made it easy to understand and use. The pictures were next level.
I found the book to be practical and full of good advice, that i can apply in the bush. It struck a great balance between traditional bushcraft and the modern, responsible outdoor practice.Overall, I felt this is an excellent book for anyone interested in bushcraft and a great addition to your library. It’s the kind of book I will read over and over for inspiration and guidance.
Mike Tickle (verified owner) –
Having done a number of courses with Paul/Frontier Bushcraft the book is much as I’d expect. It is packed with guidance laid out logically and supported by instructive visuals. It focuses not on the flashy clickbait style so popular in modern media offering instead practical and effictive techniques. Practical advice on how to choose, use and shapen a knife. Detailed guidance on tinders and kindling to supliment fire lighting theory and practice – and essentially how to correctly clear up after a fire. The section on shelters does not just cover the practicalities for shelters and improvised shelters but also enough about the mechanisms of heat transfer to have an understanding of what makes a good shelter and where to place one. The beautoy of the book to compliement a course is that a course runs in a particular environement/climate whiel the book can cover topics like shelter and water covering a wider range of situations shuch as snow and arrid environments. Often bushcraft focuses on knives, axes and fires but this book has 20+ pages on usefull trees and plants. This is more than many other books on bushcraft. For me the book is a fantastic recap on the courses – far more detail than I could capture in my notes. For those that have not done a Frontier course it will provide a solid covering of the fundamentals which have been distilled through years of application and teaching. It is a book that benefits from the authors first hand knowledge and experience not just of the topic and its us on expeditions but also of teaching others about the topic.
hamish –
Paul Knows this world. The best how to do it book . The real information needed without the clutter of other books. If it is in this book , it works. Thanks for making this years christmas presents easy.
Roberto Hexsel (verified owner) –
Got my copy yesterday. The production is excellent, browsed bits and pieces and the writing is clear, concise and to the point. Not surprisingly, this book is as good as the “Axe book”. Kudos to Mr Kirtley!!
Leo (verified owner) –
Received my copy yesterday.
Already had a good read and I can say I am very impressed.
It is well thought out and written. The photos are clear and instructive.
It covers a good range of subjects and in enough detail to help both beginners and those who have been doing it for some time.
Barry Cheadle (verified owner) –
This is an excellent book which deserves to become the standard reference work on the subject. It’s very well presented in a logical manner, superbly illustrated and the techniques and skills are shown clearly in a manner which is easy to follow. Paul has a lifetime of experience in Bushcraft and this shines through on every page. The writing style is clear and engaging, and all the subjects are covered comprehensively. Highly recommended.
david (verified owner) –
The reason I highly recommend this book is because it introduces the various subjects of Bushcraft as crafts to be learned and perfected.
Beautifully presented, the clarity of the layout, the texts and photographs all draw the reader into taking the time to engage with, and then apply the specific craft in the relevant context.
A must have reference book to the art of Bushcraft.
Anthony Kiong (verified owner) –
A fantastic book that is organised into the skill set that you need so an even a noob like me can find the info I need easily.
I like the photos and the step by step guide to illustrate the point. Definitely a useful guide for a person getting into bushcraft.
Dave Cox (verified owner) –
Excellent book, well written, instructive and informative, good quality, helpful photos.
Thoroughly recommend it. Thank you Paul and his team.
Steve Bayley (verified owner) –
This is another excellent book from Mr Kirtley. The quality of the photography makes everything 100% clear and all the subjects covered are explained with all the key information and no waffle. A book perhaps better described as being aimed, if not at complete novices – although I can’t think of a better place to begin, but at ‘outdoorsmen’ who want to progress their skills with no-nonsense, definitive and authoritative information and guidance. Obviously this book covers the core skills, and there are, arguably, some subtleties not explored. But there’s no point going down the rabbit-hole of detail until you’re proficient in the core skills. I’d describe my skills as pretty good after some 18 years since beginning to explore Bushcraft, but found plenty here of interest, to remind myself why we take the approach we do, and to simply enjoy. 100% recommended
Alistair Brook (verified owner) –
Fantastic book. Covers the important areas for bushcraft, with lots of pictures for step by step guides. Well written and authoritative.
Martin Bell (verified owner) –
An excellent book, nicely organised in Paul’s signature style – well-explained and thorough! Excellent as a starting text or for anyone who wants to ensure they’ve got the fundamentals of their bushcraft right.
Philip Sheldrake (verified owner) –
This remarkable book must be in the running to be the most indispensable guide to bushcraft on the market. Paul’s approach manages to embrace both science and art, and in addition it is eminently readable. As a comprehensive guide to the skills needed to thrive in nature, I believe it is unsurpassed.
Klaas (verified owner) –
Very good bushcraft book on the basics of bushcraft. Everything thoroughly explained. The pictures are also very good and explanatory.
Joey (verified owner) –
One thing that strikes me in particular is not just the expert information itself, but the quality of its presentation.
The visual clarity of the layout and organisation of the descriptions, depictions and explanations on each page does a fantastic job of delivering the detailed information while also maintaining a beautifully clean aesthetic.
A brilliant companion to Paul’s other equally magnificent book “Wilderness Axe Skills and Campcraft”!
Max (verified owner) –
This is a very well illustrated and detailed book, it is straight to the point, simple and easy to follow. Filled with many great lessons from every aspect of bushcraft. It would be a perfect place to start for anyone interested or also as a great reference to any already experienced. Paul is one of the best and most knowledgeable people on the subject of bushcraft but he is also an excellent teacher and this book is a great example of that.
Karen Singleton (verified owner) –
My husband absolutely loves it, it’s a beautiful book!
MartyS (verified owner) –
As expected from Paul this is an amazingly good book about all aspects of bushcraft. Laid out in a very organized manner. Beautiful pictures of almost every step discussed. Just buy this book. You will not be disappointed.
Jeroen VandeLoo (verified owner) –
Hi Paul,
What a great reviews. I received the book and it’s waiting to be unwraped at X-mas, I’m looking forward to reading it.
Based on all the reviews I already rated 5 stars.
Greg Martin (verified owner) –
Another quality publication from Paul, really informative, formatted beautifully, and the images support the text brilliantly. Have to give a nod to Ray as well for the lovely front cover pic! 😉 what next to complete the trilogy?
Ian Hassell (verified owner) –
Outstanding ! Concise. Easy to follow. Great images.
As with Wilderness Axe Skills and Campcraft it’s a book you can’t put down.
A great reference for instructing too.
Recommended.
Attila Farkas (verified owner) –
Been following Paul and his writings for years for quality and easily adaptable content.
As his previous book, Wilderness Axe Skills and Campcraft, Core Bushcraft delivers a solid, well structured bunch of essential knowledge and show of skills every outdoorsman should have.
Looking forward to him getting on a third book (hopefully), perhaps about wilderness medicine and first aid.
Ken Nielsen (verified owner) –
Having had Paul Kirtley’s new book Core Bushcraft in approximatly three weeks now here are my experience and my five cents of the book.
First of all – it is great to have a real book in your hands about Core Bushcraft. It is such a satisfying feeling not always to have to look at a screen
The book and its substance appears as:
– A piece of quality content
– Well structured
– For the newer as well as experienced
– Accumulates all the various different bushcrat skills – some are well known to you, others probably less known and practiced.
One gets the feeling of over time personal obtained experience and skills within how to explore, merge with and get the best out of Nature.
It comprises chapters within:
– 1) Woodcraft and choice of knife,
– 2) Firecraft, materials and skills,
– 3) Sheltercraft, principles and location incl. how to approach water in nature
– 4) Cordage and Bindcraft incl. relevant knots and hitches,
– 5) Useful trees and plants,
– 6) How to catch and handle fish and small game, and two smaller parts of
– 7) How to navigate by usage of Nature, and
– 8) Clothing and personal equipment.
All in all a gathering of the essence of Paul Kirtley’s Frontier Bushcraft courses (virtual as physical) and Podcasts
Finally the book Core Buscraft book is a great companion and supplement to Paul Kirtley’s other book Wliderness Axe Skills and Campcraft.
Jon Ludvig Blomberg (verified owner) –
Very high quality book. Highly recommend this book to anyone interested in bushcraft. Absolutely loved it
Roy Steinbrecher (verified owner) –
This is a truly outstanding general bushcrafting handbook. Solid knowledge and techniques are evident throughout the book. The excellent photographs and illustrations further enhance the careful and thorough written descriptions. Paul’s books will, I believe, become the new classics in both modern and traditional bushcrafting and learning how best to live with our natural world. Having had the special privilege of both knowing and spending some time with two past giants in the world of wilderness skills, Calvin Rutstrum and Mors Kochanski, I strongly suspect that they would have agreed with my assessment.
Keven (verified owner) –
As always everything Paul Kirtley does is outstanding, accessible and good read. Appreciate the photos as it. Really a new staple in my outdoors library.
Chris Sutherland (verified owner) –
5 stars is not enough. Easiest one word summary, “AWESOME” Paul has set the current world standard for bushcraft skills and this book is tangible evidence of that. When we talk about the Godfathers of modern bushcraft, Kochanski, Mears, Falt….this book truly proves “Kirtley” now deserves to be on that list.
Phil Robinson (verified owner) –
Firstly this new book from Paul is of a very high quality, not only of its production, but in its quality of content.The written explanations of each core skill are succinct and extremely clear. They also shine with Paul’s obvious experience, not only his ability to do what he is explaining, but also his teaching skills and ability to convey the important nuances of certain activities. ( Also , if you know, or have met Paul, you can hear his voice and his dry humour!). The book is also abundantly accompanied with some really excellent , clear photographs.
And finally it must be said that this book totally marries with Paul’s previous book “Wilderness Axe Skills And Campcraft”. There is hardly any duplicity between both books and they work together very well. I would recommend having both.
I have many books on the associated topics of bushcraft and survival. Quite frankly these two are two of the best. Well done Paul
Scott Taylor (verified owner) –
This is a superb book. Having bought Paul’s previous book, I was qite impatient for a follow-up volume. I confess to be an armchair enthusiast but that’s an endorsement in itself. It’s a great and absorbing read whether you get out there or not. I expect it’s a ‘must have’ for those in the wilds, though. This latest volume will only put Paul under more pressure to prodice another!
Per Hodnemyr (verified owner) –
Core Bushcraft is a fantastic book that is very informative, and the chapters are well structured.
The book is well worth buying for someone who enjoys spending time in the wilderness.
Jed Yarnold (verified owner) –
Reading some reviews en route to writing one I note some amazing endorsements from some very venerable and experienced outdoorsmen, rock solid testament to the quality of Paul’s excellent wilderness living skills source book. It’s hard to add anything else. So suffice to say Paul has distilled just the perfect amount of context and theory, skills and drills into this outstanding treatise. It’s clear that every aspect has been tried and tested by him before publication. What an outstanding bushcraft reference book: succinct, accurate and beautifully illustrated It’s a joy to read and to use for reference
Paul also gives credit to the various fellow leaders in this field, a quality I much admire from someone as highly qualified as he is. Brilliant!
Paul Richards (verified owner) –
Typically as soon as your book arrived Ive been working non stop! However what I have reviewed so far is wonderful. Excellent photographs and picture quality and written in and easy to follow format. Great.
Robert O’Toole (verified owner) –
Superbly illustrated book, very easy to follow and get an understading of the tasks shown from looking after your knife to making sure your drinking water is safe. Another excellent reference book to keep close to hand well done Paul.
Bob Lever (verified owner) –
Very good book, as i would expect from Paul Kirtley. a “must have” addition to any bushcraft library
John T (verified owner) –
Great review of the online courses. This will be a very useful reference guide that can be used without relying on the internet.
Jonas (verified owner) –
A really comprehensive and complete book about everything bushcraft
I especially liked the illustrations and the whole format of the book