The 10 C’s – Building Your Survival Kit: How to Apply the 10 C’s in Real Life
As a survival enthusiast, I’ve always believed that preparation is key to self-reliance. The best framework I’ve come across is Dave Canterbury’s 10 C’s of Survival. These ten essential items form the backbone of any solid survival kit. Today, I’ll walk you through how I’ve applied the 10 C’s in real life, including specific products you can find on Amazon to start building your own kit.
1. Cutting Tool
A reliable knife is non-negotiable in any survival situation. From carving wood to preparing food, a good cutting tool is indispensable. My go-to choice is the Morakniv Companion Fixed-Blade Knife. It has a 90-degree flat ground spine so that it can be used for striking a Ferro rod. This saves you from using the blade for this function thereby conserving your resources and not dulling the blade unnecessarily. It also has a High Carbon steel blade which is necessary for sparking Flint or other hard rock material on the spine which can be very useful in fire starting if other methods fail, get damaged or are lost. It’s razor-sharp, durable, and affordable. You can find it here.
2 Combustion Device
Starting a fire is critical for warmth, cooking, and signalling. While I always carry a lighter as a backup, I rely on a Ferrocerium Rod Fire Starter for its reliability in wet conditions. The Bayite Ferro Rod Kit is an excellent choice and comes with a striker. You can grab it here.
3. Cover
When you’re exposed to the elements, having a shelter can mean the difference between life and death. I recommend the SOL Escape Lite Bivvy. It’s lightweight, compact, and provides excellent protection against wind and rain. Check it out here.
4. Container
A sturdy container is essential for boiling water and cooking food. The Stanley Adventure Camp Cook Set is my favorite. It’s stainless steel, durable, and includes a lid for efficient boiling. You can find it here.
We also have an informative article about water filtration systems – you can read it here
5. Cordage
Paracord is traditionally one of the most versatile tools in any survival kit. I have used TOUGH-GRID 550lb Paracord. Whether it’s for building shelter or securing gear, this paracord is incredibly strong and reliable. Get it here.
Although I have used the traditional paracord in the past, a modern alternative is tarred bank line, which takes up less room and weighs less than paracord. It has many other advantages compared to paracord, such as being more functional for things actually needed in a survival scenario (like trapping, fishing, and lashings). It also stretches less than paracord so lashings and bindings on shelters do not loosen over time. Another advantage: it costs around half as much as paracord. All around, it’s now considered a first cordage choice. I now recommend this over paracord. You can get yours here
6. Cotton Bandana
A cotton bandana has countless uses: water filtration, first aid, or even sun protection. The Levi’s Cotton Bandanas are a great option. They’re durable and large enough for multiple applications. Check them out here.
7. Compass
Navigation is critical when you’re in unfamiliar terrain. The Suunto MC-2 Compass is highly accurate and includes a mirror for signalling. I’ve used it on several hikes and trust it completely. You can find it here.
8. Candlelight (Illumination)
A dependable light source is a must-have. I prefer the Fenix PD35 V3.0 Tactical Flashlight. It’s compact, incredibly bright, and rechargeable. You can grab it here.
9. Cargo Tape (Duct Tape)
Duct tape is a universal problem solver in the wild. The Gorilla Tape To-Go is a compact and portable version that I carry in my kit. I also use it extensively around the house and in my photography. It’s strong and adheres to almost anything. Check it out here.
10. Canvas Needle
A heavy-duty needle is invaluable for repairing gear or clothing. The Dritz Heavy Duty Needles are perfect for this purpose. Pair them with some tarred bank line or thread, and you’re ready for any repairs. Find them here.
Putting It All Together
Building your survival kit around the 10 C’s ensures that you’re prepared for a wide range of challenges. These items are lightweight, easy to pack, and provide maximum utility in the field. I’ve tested all of these products personally and can vouch for their effectiveness. I have also read glowing reviews on Amazon for these products – not only are they popular amongst other preppers, they are also highly rated.
I advise anyone who is starting out to consider one other piece of vitally important equiment in addition to the 10 C’s – a basic first aid kit. This can be critically important if you get injured or need to help someone else who is injured. I recommend the Rhino Rescue First Aid Kit. It comes in a handy size container that is waterproof. You can get yours here.
You’ll also need something to carry your survival kit – check out our informative article on backpacks here
Whether you’re a seasoned prepper or just getting started, I hope this guide inspires you to build your own kit. Remember, preparation isn’t just about having the right gear—it’s about knowing how to use it. Stay safe and stay prepared!
You can also check out our article on developing a positive mindset for dealing with survival in a disaster here
About Dave Canterbury
Dave Canterbury is a renowned survival expert, author, and instructor. He is best known for co-hosting the TV show Dual Survival and for founding the Pathfinder School, a top-rated survival training school. His extensive knowledge of wilderness survival has helped countless individuals prepare for outdoor challenges. He is also famous for developing the concept of the 10 C’s of Survival and for writing a number of books about survival and bushcraft. I have learned a lot by watching his videos on YouTube.
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