Mors Kochanski

Mors Kochanski (1940-2019) was a Canadian bushcraft and wilderness survival instructor, author and expert who dedicated his life to mastering and teaching outdoor skills. His influential book "Bushcraft: Outdoor Skills and Wilderness Survival" became a cornerstone text in the field of wilderness education. Kochanski developed and refined many wilderness living techniques, particularly those suited to the northern forest environment. He was especially known for his expertise in knife and axe handling, fire making, and shelter building in cold weather conditions. Having instructed military personnel, search and rescue teams, and outdoor enthusiasts for over 40 years, Kochanski established rigorous standards for wilderness skills education. His teaching methods emphasized the practical mastery of core skills through repeated practice and deep understanding of underlying principles. The "Super Shelter" design he created remains widely used in survival situations, demonstrating his focus on practical, reliable wilderness solutions. Through his books, instructional videos, and teaching programs, Kochanski influenced generations of outdoor educators and survival experts worldwide.

Readers describe Kochanski as a bushcraft instructor who distills complex survival skills into clear, practical lessons. His book "Bushcraft" (now "Northern Bushcraft") attracts reviews focusing on his detailed instructions and illustrations for wilderness skills. Readers praise: - Step-by-step knife and axe techniques - Cold weather survival methods - Focus on boreal forest environments - Hand-drawn diagrams - Emphasis on safety and fundamentals Common criticisms: - Dense, technical writing style - Limited focus on non-northern environments - Dated references and equipment - Basic black and white photos Ratings across platforms: Amazon: 4.7/5 (500+ reviews) Goodreads: 4.4/5 (400+ reviews) Several reviewers note his impact on other bushcraft authors like Ray Mears, who credits Kochanski as a mentor. Multiple forum discussions reference his "Super Shelter" design and "Big 4" survival priorities as foundational concepts.

Northern Bushcraft (1988) A comprehensive guide covering survival skills, tool use, and living methods specifically adapted to the northern boreal forest.

Bush Arts (1989) A technical manual focused on traditional handicrafts and tool-making techniques using natural materials found in wilderness settings.

Basic Safe Travel and Boreal Survival Handbook (2013) An instructional text detailing fundamental wilderness navigation, safety protocols, and survival methods for boreal forest environments.

Basic Wilderness Skills Papers (1986) A collection of detailed technical papers covering specific wilderness skills including firecraft, shelter building, and tool usage.

Grand Syllabus (1981) A structured curriculum covering wilderness living skills, originally developed for outdoor education programs and survival instructors.