Theory

• Native American survival skills are taught so that people can survive if they're lacking particular gear. For example, those with these skills are able to survive even without tents, clean water or sleeping bags. Survival techniques are often passed down through generations in the form of stories or lore, but they're still extremely helpful, tried-and-true techniques.
  
  

Fire-making

• Native Americans made fire for several reasons, including to clear the land in order to plant crops, for warmth or to cook food. Fires intended to clear ground were typically set during certain times of the year, such as when new growth would begin. One method of Native American fire-making utilized flint and pyrites to create fire. A second method relied on rubbing wood on another piece of wood, eventually lighting the ground on fire via the heat created by the friction.
  
  

Arrows

• Ancient Native American warriors not only had to be successful in battles but they also had to craft top-notch weapons, including sharp arrows. Feathers from turkeys or buzzards were used on the arrow, and wood was smoothed into the arrowhead.
  
  

Spears

• Native American spears were used for both war and for hunting, both of which were integral parts of survival. Even though Native Americans had other weapons, like bows and arrows, knives and clubs, spears were their main weapon of choice. The shaft of the spear was constructed from wood and the sharp spearhead was made from metals, including copper, obsidian and flint. Materials varied by region and what was available to certain tribes. The spears were often at least eight feet long, and spears used for hunting were twice as long as spears used in battle. Hunters could kill prey while still keeping their distance and remaining safe, and they could hunt animals either on land or in water. Fishing spears often had three prongs, making it easier to catch small fish.