In today's high-tech society, even the most advanced devices and systems
are not failsafe. Tools can break or wear out, batteries can go dead,
and all sorts of malfunctions can
render the modern conveniences we rely on totally useless. If
quick replacements of failed items are not readily available,
the ability to improvise and adapt in the workshop suddenly
becomes very practical.
James Ballou, author of the best-selling "Long-Term Survival in the Coming Dark Age", dramatically expands on the popular home
workshop material in his first book to present a "makeshifter's" way of building and repairing things with only a
pile of raw or salvaged materials, your hands and your mind.
In this fascinating new book, he presents a wide range of
unconventional, remarkably creative home workshop skills,
including:
• HOMEMADE TOOLS—Make your own hammers,
drills, screwdrivers, wrenches, pliers, saws, files, chisels,
vises, clamps . . .
• EXPEDIENT REPAIRS—Perform sturdy repairs with ordinary
glue, tape, cord, wire, dowels, nuts and bolts . . .
• MAKESHIFT CONSTRUCTION—Construct all sorts
of functional items out of coat hangers, old car parts,
2 x 4s, wooden dowels, nails, rebar, coffee cans . . .
• USEFUL PROJECTS—Build a homemade forge out of
an old barbeque; handle simple soldering jobs with a road
flare; perform quick weld repairs with car batteries,
jumper cables, and a pair of pliers . . .
Ballou also gives extensive instruction in makeshift metalworking,
practical calculating skills, resourceful salvaging,
plus dozens of practical tips for the craftsman or handyman
who might need this information in an emergency or who
simply enjoys learning about alternative ways to handle
home workshop projects.
As far back as James Ballou can remember, his interests have
included survival activities — hunting, fishing, exploring, treasure
hunting, backpacking, shooting, making and using tools, and just plain
improvising. The author of dozens of magazine articles on various
subjects, he also served four years in the U.S. Army as a paratrooper
with the 82nd Airborne Division.