Bush Tools & Implements: Traditional Aboriginal Survival Gear

Digging sticks, stone axes, wooden spears, and natural cordage

🌿 Why This Matters

Aboriginal people created efficient tools from natural materials to survive, hunt, and prepare food. Learning about these tools teaches resourcefulness, ingenuity, and sustainable living — skills essential in survival situations.

🪓 1. Digging Sticks (for roots and tubers)

Purpose: To dig up edible roots, tubers, and water plants.

Step-by-step:

1. Select a straight branch or sapling about 1–1.2m long.

2. Sharpen one end using a stone or fire to make it pointed.

3. Use it to probe the soil and dig around edible roots.

4. Optional: smooth the handle with leaves or bark to avoid splinters.

Tip: Digging sticks are multi-purpose — can also stir fire pits or clear dirt for shelters.

🪨 2. Stone Axes & Choppers

Purpose: Cutting wood, carving tools, or splitting bark.

Step-by-step:

1. Find a suitable hard stone (like basalt or quartzite) with a flat side.

2. Sharpen one edge with smaller stones or by knapping.

3. Secure the stone to a wooden handle using natural cordage (vines, bark strips).

4. Test carefully before heavy use.

Tip: Always strike carefully — even small stone axes can cause injury if misused.

🪵 3. Wooden Spears

Purpose: Hunting small to medium game, fishing, or defense.

Step-by-step:

1. Choose a long, straight branch (about 2–3m).

2. Sharpen one end with fire or stone.

3. Optionally, harden the tip in fire to make it stronger.

4. Practice throwing in a safe, open area.

Tip: Spears can also be used to probe for water plants or gently move animals without killing them.

🧵 4. Natural Cordage & Rope

Purpose: Tying tools, making traps, or securing shelters.

Step-by-step:

1. Collect bark fibers, vines, or long grasses.

2. Peel and twist fibers together to form strong cords.

3. Test strength before using on heavy objects.

4. Can be braided for extra durability.

Tip: Cordage is a survival essential — it can make temporary shelters, snares, or even fishing lines.

💡 Safety & Practical Notes

• Use tools carefully — even small sticks or stones can injure.

• Always test materials before relying on them.

• Respect nature — take only what you need and leave the rest intact.

• Practice skillfully — these tools are most effective when used with patience and technique, not brute force.
  
  
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  Article By BrotherKris "Kris Brown"
  For more Aboriginal Information & Educational resources CLICK HERE