Ray Mears, My Outdoor Life… Review

Most of us involved with survival and primitive skills, or just outdoorsmen in general, have heard of Ray Mears, have read his books on bushcraft, or have seen him on TV hosting his outdoor shows in remote places. Many times, we really do not think too much about the host, as long as they make sense and are concise in their delivery. Ray Mears is one of those people who make it look effortless and has a way of being there, but not in he way. That makes for a very pleasant viewing and learning experience, for those of us who are interested in the subject matter. In other words, he does not get in his own way.

What we don’t know is the man himself. His book is a real eye opener, about The Ray Mears we never knew… I just wish he had not kept it all under wraps for so long. But then again, he wasn’t ready, or old enough, until now to share the many personal images of his life, and what a life it has been.

He takes you back to his beginnings as a boy and brings you forward to the man he is today. He could just as well been a professional photographer, the choice was up in the air, and we would not have had the privilege of his knowledge of bushcraft and the many other subjects he covers, in his books and his films.

What I find interesting is his preparations when he films. He is demanding of his crew. He wants only real professionals, who always deliver, no matter the obstacles. If in a remote land, he demands respect toward the peoples who’s land they are visiting… No looking down at them. He really wants to present the very best quality.

The chapter on man tracking, where he is involved in the largest man hunt in the country, ever, takes you through all the emotions he was experiencing.

Writing a book about your self has to be very difficult. You are walking a tightrope between being an over the top egotist, or being so humble as to be not real and untruthful. My take is, he took the high road and laid it out like it was and is. I found his style refreshing and charming. His love affair of Judo and his mentors is told in a very respectful manner. He is a man who has earned many hard lessons and turned them into positives. All lessons are not earned, but I think Mr. Mears earned his lessons and was smart enough to know it.

First thing he is a bushman and has shown he can survive in any extreme environment. His skill set is nothing short of amazing. I think he is well on his way to becoming a legend. That is something you cannot buy or lobby for, or vote for. It is unintended. And, from reading his book, he would be embarrassed to think of himself as a legend… but a legend in the making is undeniable. His dedication to bushcraft seems to be driven and he is at the wheel. The story is very good and holds your interest. It is a compelling read. His life takes journeys unforeseen, just like a real person, like the helicopter crash he walked away from and the tragic loss of his first wife will bring a tear. The determination to make his bushcraft company, Woodslore, work, and be the best in the field. And, his new found happiness with life. Talk about dirttime, he spends as much as 250 days a year in the bush, day and night. He is the stuff of legend, in today’s world, with so many making claims, while he is doing it. A tip of my hat.

I have always held Ray Mears in high regard, but after reading this book, he commands my highest respect.

You cannot go wrong with his book. You will even learn a bit about bushcraft. The stories within the story are great

I am at a loss for words—a true outdoor adventure not to be missed.

By Dude McLean

Please feel free to post comments on my articles, I enjoy hearing from and responding to my readers. When you're finished posting your comment please click PUBLISH to share your comment with me and my readers.