The 5Cs of survival devised by David Canterbury

Survival expert Dave Canterbury has popularised a framework known as the ‘5 Cs of Survival’ which outlines the essential tools and resources needed to survive in the wilderness. These five components are critical for ensuring safety, securing resources, and maintaining overall well-being in a survival situation. We explore each of the 5 Cs in detail, providing practical insights and applications for outdoor enthusiasts and survivalists.

1. Cutting Tools

A reliable cutting tool is the cornerstone of survival gear. Whether it’s a knife, multitool, or axe, a good cutting tool can be used for a variety of tasks, including food preparation, building shelter, and making other essential tools. Following the principle of ‘two is one, one is none’, allowing for redundancy, it’s a good idea to carry a primary cutting tool, like a fixed blade sheath knife, and a backup cutting tool, like a pocket multitool. The fixed blade sheath knife offers durability and versatility and is lighter and easier to carry than an axe. 

Please note that in some countries, like the U.K., it is illegal to “carry most knives or any weapons in public without a ‘good reason”. It is legal to carry a non-locking pocket knife with a cutting edge of no longer than 3 inches. A locking knife is seen as a ‘fixed blade knife.

Key uses of cutting tools

Building Shelter – Cutting branches and shaping materials for a makeshift shelter.

Fire Making – Preparing kindling, shaving wood for fire starting and splitting logs no thicker than ⅔ of the cutting edge length. If your knife as a ‘square edge’ back (square spine) then this can be used with a fire striker (flint/chert) or ferro rod.

Food Preparation – Cleaning fish, game, and cutting edible plants.

2. Combustion Devices

Fire is crucial for warmth, cooking, and signalling for help. Carrying reliable combustion devices like a lighter/storm-proof matches (open flame), ferro rod/flint and steel (spark) and a fresnel lens/magnifying glass (solar), ensures you can create fire under various conditions. You should always carry a minimum of two different combustion devices allowing for different conditions, a lighter and ferro rod being the most common.

Key uses of combustion devices

Warmth – Prevent hypothermia by maintaining body temperature.

Cooking – Prepare safe and nutritious meals.

Signalling – Use smoke and light to attract rescuers’ attention.

Wildlife – Keeping wild animals away (most, but not all, wild animals are scared of fire).

3. Cover (Shelter)

Shelter is vital for protection against the elements. Adequate cover helps maintain body temperature and shields you from wind, rain, snow, and sun. Shelter is essential for survival as in extreme environments we can die from hypo or hyperthermia within hours. At an absolute minimum we should carry a space blanket (foil blanket). Ideally we should have a tent, durable tarp/poncho or a bivvy bag.

A basic principle of shelter is that your clothing is your first line of shelter. Layered clothing provides excellent protection from the elements and should consist of a base layer (to wick moisture away from our bodies), a mid-layer for warmth (pullover/fleece), an outer layer (jacket/wind-breaker) for additional warmth and a waterproof layer (packable jacket with rain pants).

In addition to your clothing you need something to sleep on (mat/inflatable mattress/browse bed), something to sleep under (tent/taro/poncho/debris shelter) and something to sleep in (sleeping bag/bivvy bag/blanket).

Key uses of shelter

Protection from weather – Stay dry and warm to avoid hypothermia.

Rest – Ensure a good rest to maintain energy and morale.

Safety – Create a barrier against insects and wild animals.

4. Container

Containers are essential for water collection, purification, and storage. Dehydration can be fatal, making it imperative to have a means to store and transport water. Single wall stainless steel/titanium water bottles/canteens that can be used to boil water directly in are the most versatile. These should ideally be used with a ‘nesting cup’ made of the same material that can be used to cook or boil water in.

Key uses of a container

Water Collection – Gather water from streams, lakes, or rain.

Purification – Boil water to eliminate pathogens.

Storage – Carry sufficient water to stay hydrated.

5. Cordage

Cordage is versatile and indispensable for various survival tasks. It can be used for building shelters, making traps, and repairing gear. Paracord is highly recommended due to its strength and multiple uses. Paracord can either be used as is or broken down into it’s individual components (strands) for thinner cord. Tarred Mariner’s bank-line is excellent as an additional cordage.

Key uses of cordage

Shelter Building – Secure tarps and construct frames.

Gear Repair – Fix broken equipment and clothing.

Traps and Tools – Create snares and fishing lines for food.

Integrating the  first 5 Cs into Your Survival Kit

When preparing your survival kit, ensure each of the 5 Cs is represented. This balanced approach equips you to handle various challenges and increases your chances of survival. 

Example Base Survival Kit

Cutting Tool: – Fixed-blade knife.

Combustion Device – Waterproof matches and a ferro rod.

Cover – Space blanket and tarp.

Container – Stainless steel water bottle with nesting cup.

Cordage – 5m of paracord.

Understanding and integrating the 5 Cs of survival can dramatically enhance your readiness and confidence in the wilderness. Inspired by Dave Canterbury’s practical and proven survival strategies, these essentials provide a robust foundation for any survival scenario. Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or a novice outdoor enthusiast, prioritising these core elements will prepare you to face the unexpected with resilience and resourcefulness.

References

Canterbury, D. (2011), Bushcraft 101: A Field Guide to the Art of Wilderness Survival, New York: Adams Media.

DISCLAIMER

The information provided in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as professional advice. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the information, the author and publisher make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, or suitability of the information contained in this article for any purpose. The author and publisher shall not be held responsible for any adverse effects or consequences resulting from the use of any information, suggestions, or recommendations presented in this article.

In survival scenarios, conditions can vary widely and unpredictably. The strategies and recommendations discussed are general guidelines and may not be suitable for every individual or situation. Always use personal judgment and consider your unique circumstances when applying any information from this article.