My wife and I are on 5 acres in northern Idaho. Off grid, living in a cabin we built this summer. Neither one of us could imagine life without our ATVs. For day to day chores around the property, plowing in the winter, running to the store, foraging and hunting and recreational trail rides.
I think the decision whether or not you should get a snow machine or 4 wheeler you should consider the future . The older we get the harder it gets physically to do the things we want to do. Anything that can spare your joints, back etc., unnecessary wear and tear you should consider. Even though you don't feel it much now there will come a time when that wear and tear will make itself known every minute of every day. So, whatever you can do now to minimize that wear and tear will pay off in the long run.
I tend to agree. I'm 63 now and reasonably fit and healthy. Nevertheless, after a few relatively 'trivial' injuries I've accumulated, it's incredibly frustrating that I can no longer 'just do' the things that I know how to do and want to do. It all takes extra planning and so much more time than it really should. Everything makes me weary or makes bits of me ache, so I have to 'stop for a breather'. I hate it, with a passion, but it is what it is. I'm just getting old! Plan ahead, young man, plan ahead - and take care of your body if you want it to keep working the way you need it to! If some tool, whatever form it takes, makes your work easier, use it!
Mary Thibault But in this case he would have to cut across his philosophy, which is critical for this guy. If something serious happens to health, even a helicopter won't help him out. sorry for English, I am not a native.
@@alexgrishkin7562 your english is fine. Accidents can happen but are less likely to occur if you do the necessary preparations, and use common sense. The question of whether an ATV or a snow machine are practical and or necessary for everyday living at the cabin is what he is considering. I don't think it is for a catastrophic event. However, looking at your helicopter scenario, would it not be easier for Shawn or his wife to haul each other out to a waiting helicopter in such an event if they had a 4 wheeler or a snow machine?
@@alexgrishkin7562 I guess as far as Shawn's philosophy goes he will have to decide if the machines are a practical addition to his cabin homestead or really just "toys".
Tough call on the ATV. But there are so many things you can do with one. It is like this, a friend of mine told me that "you can't buy time, but you can buy tools to make your time much more effective." It boils down to what you want to accomplish, and how fast, how much work you want to do. I had a similar decision this year. I mow my 8 acres with a hand scythe. I've been doing that for the last 4 years. But this year was unusually wet. We had rain twice a week all summer long. No chance to get on top of the grass growing. So I decided to go ahead and purchase a sickle bar mower attachment for a two-wheel tractor. I also bought a cart to go with the tractor, improving the usefulness of the thing around the farm. But now I don't spend nearly the time using the scythe to mow, and it has brought the joy of hand mowing back, knowing that I can keep up with the grass, and use the sickle bar mower for the larger things. It is all about what works for you. What will make your life better, without the drag of having to manage "stuff".
Good advice. I planted 8 acres of grain by hand and then harvested it with a scythe so I'm impressed and appreciate the amount of physical work you do.
Yowks! I have an open 6.5 acres and I need my Kubota with a 60" bush hog (rotary mower) to keep up with it. Then again, when it's high, I'm not much more than a couple of feet taller than the weeds & grasses! lol Carry on!!!
The old farmers had horses, without them they couldn't survive. Later the horses were replaced by the old red tractors, again they couldn't survive without them......Just look at ATV's as modern horses/red tractors. An ATV isn't cheating.
In the old days, owning a horse was reserved for people with means. Even the cowboys that we love to romanticized over during the 19th century relied on the ranch and livestock owners to furnish their horses for cattle drives and roundups. Cowboys were the poorest of the poor. Farmers of the past relied on the cooperation and help of surrounding farmers they pooled their resources to bring in the harvest. one farmer might have a single horse, or ox, but it took 4 or 5 or more farmers to put a single team and harvester together to cut the fields. and bring in the crops. He is building his cabin and other structures much the same way a person would who arrived on the frontier with little more than a push cart full of possessions.
One of the things I like about Doug & Stacy (Off Grid) is that they plan their homestead and life for "aging in place". Sure, you've been able to do a lot of the physical work and distance hauling, but as the next few years go by, having that option to use a machine to aid you in your lifestyle could be important. It can certainly extend the physical toll on your body and allow you to enjoy the cabin for far longer. It's 'smart living' not 'stubborn living' :)
I am 65 years old. I grew up on dairy farm. Started working at 5 years old, driving tractor at 10 years old. I have been a carpenter contractor for 40 years. I have done lots of hard work !!! With good sleep, lots of water even in winter and whole food the body can excel. I know a 72 year old framing carpenter and he works 40 hours week.
@@chuckvoight7440 for myself i played sports to my 2nd year in college then i went to work for g.m. and it kicked my rear more than football has in my 25 years of playing it. then cancer set in, i was not even thinking anything that horrible would happen to me being in great shape but it did now I'm in a wheelchair watching videos on a p.c. so it can happen to anyone p.s . glad your one of the lucky ones i'll call it .
I was born and raised in the Pacific Northwest, with a strong love for the mountains. I made the choice three years ago to move down to Los Angeles, to follow my career. Being thrust into one of the largest urban areas on the planet has been a bitterly difficult exercise in adaptation for me. The traffic is soul destroying. Around a year ago I started watching your channel because your videos remind me of home, and my dream to retire into the mountains at an early age. There is something about your long format videos and editing style that translates really well, invoking the feeling of solitude for which my mind craves. I long for the day to return and build on my own land. Thank you for making that wait easier. Never stop making great content!
Amazing progress Shawn. As far as an ATV or Snowmobile... I think anything that will make life easier aka gathering firewood, hunting, back lake access for better fishing or just exploring is totally worth it. You’re not sacrificing self reliance... you would actually be creating new paths towards future self reliant endeavors. That’s my opinion so I’d say go for it… eitger one. A tip of the cap for all your hard work. Looking forward to the next.
Easier isn’t better where Shawn is now in life. Easier when we don’t need it, allows our bodies begin to wither away. Balance would be good though - having an ATV and snowmobile to have the correct vehicle... but, now have to worry about batteries in freezing weather, etc
An ATV would be more of a work horse than a luxury to you Shawn. and as you said if you could afford a newish model then the maintenance costs for the first few years should be minimal. "in theory" and judging by your skill set I'm quite sure that you'd be handy with a spanner also 😉 think of you're back my friend theres no point in thinking "wish id gotten an ATV" if god forbid you injured your back👍🏼 plus a little trailer to cart around the fire wood from already fallen trees would be fantastic. keep up the fantastic videos and thank you
I balked at an ATV for years. I finally bought a 2015 Honda Rubicon from an old lad and I love it. Here on the homestead I use it for firewood and just about everything else. I really like it. Got a young buck today! Perfect for the freezer! Nice job as usual with your video!
"If you live for people's acceptance, you'll die from their rejection." - Lecrae If your life is improved by a decision, people's criticism won't kill you. -Me
Self reliance is having the knowledge and confidence to control your life. Not allowing the material thing of life to control your life. But rather use the modern items to help you procure things that you need to sustain life for your family. You are an excellent role model for young and old Shawn.
Whatever tools / vehicles you can afford, you should buy them. People in Alaska use ATVs & Snowmobiles to survive! You don't have to justify to anyone what you decide to do. Do what helps you, but don't let those critics judge you! They are probably still living in their high rise judging you. Do what you need!
S Sumner well of course ..seems weird to even to mention this...live and let live!! I’ll be darn if i was Shawn if i would even give it a thought if people are not happy with my decisions !! Shoot!!!
Agreed. An ATV is another tool in the shed to make your work easier. I suggest buying something a bit older. You can benefit a lot out of a 10 year old machine and save a lot of money. Part of the game is saving money, right? I own a 1999 Honda 400 that I bought for $1200. It needs maintenance from time to time, but it is well worth maintaining rather than an $8K expense. Get a winch to haul those logs and some sort of cart to attach to it and it will make your like easier. Great for hauling equipment and your successful larger(deer/elk) hunts. Awesome video as usual, Sean! Please keep them coming!
I have really enjoyed your perspective and videos. Thank you. I don’t live completely off grid, but I live a county life style. The best investment I have ever made as far as equipment is my refurbished yanmar 2210D utility tractor. It is 25hp 4x4 with a front end loader bucket. I use it for everything from logging firewood, to planting, to general use of the hydraulic bucket to move heavy loads. I have a four wheeler and pickup trucks, but by far the little yanmar is the most useful. It is what they call a “gray line” that was imported from overseas and completely refurbished by Fredricks imports in Alabama. It was originally built in 1979 so It has no computer or complicated sensors. It’s just a work horse. It’s very fuel efficient. I purchased it for less then half of a green or orange tractor. Would not want to live this life style without it. Just my two cents worth. Thanks again
Unless the vehicles are tools needed to complete this seasons work or will have incredible impact on leisure enjoyment, wait until spring. Focus on your camp projects and add them for the right reasons known to you. Love the videos. Great inspiration, relaxation and reminders to get outdoors more.
As always another nice video. I'm excited to see how your sauna turns out. I agree with your wife you should definitely get an ATV to speed up the process of some of those labor intensive projects. I think the pros weigh out the cons for an ATV. The things you could do are limitless, but the best of them all would be it would save your back. Not saying your not physically inclined hell we know that you are just look what you've accomplished over the last 2 years on this channel. Keep up all the good work Shawn. You'll be at a million subscribers before you know it. What you do out there is by far different than many other channels you got your own style going and that's why we like you man. Looking forward to the next video. Good luck with getting a deer soon aswell.
You are in a part of ontario where it would work well with hydro trails and crown land...I think that YOU and the way you make your videos keeps us all coming back...thats what makes your channel...the quad or ski doo wont matter to us....so have at them...if YOU want. Thks for great viewing. RG
I fully support any ATV you would be looking to get. I don't think anyone can say that you take the easy route! You certainly have excellent craftsmanship. Using a chainsaw, ATV, or even a few more power tools is fine by me and I'll continue to watch. The point is you are out in the bush building something using materials from your land as well as a good guy to listen to. Full support from me! Thanks for your work!
Shawn, As you are not going for isolation in the wilderness, something that increases your scope and resilience, like an atv is a good option. If you don't run it on public roads you can maintain to your own standard. When I had the shop I used to trade with a 90 year old farmer. He sold me honey. Bert Yule. He used to come into town on an old ford tractor, entirely on private land, park and come to me. He never had a driving licence, tax or insurance, he just did it. Past times. Manor Valley honey from Bert was the best. It arrived and was gone like dust on the wind! I think a careful consideration will show you the shining path. Regards Stephen.
Simplifying life is the key to peace of mind.... In the past, simplifying for you was eliminating the headache of maintaining material possessions, today those possessions will simplify your life by allowing you to expand your horizons.... if affordable, definitely go for it.... I see nothing but positives!
Personally I would get a older snow mobile and or atv around 500-1000. Just do the maintenance yourself and the cost will be lower just a bit of oil and gas. I wouldn’t insure them if you stay on or near your property. Keep your overhead low. This way you can invest sometime into maintenance, but as much as you prefer really. I don’t think a 8000 dollar atv would fit well with the cabin. It’s your time and money though. Just my two cents. Keep up the good work. Beautiful place you have created
julien hunt that’s what I did. I too am building a log cabin. I got an older quad and I use it for everything. It moves my logs, fire wood etc. Very low over head. Someone had taking it to the scrap yard for scrap. They couldn’t get it to start. I got it for the cost of scrap so less than $50 bucks. Changed the starter and haven’t had trouble with it other than a new CDI this year.
I truly enjoy this channel. So much talent and entertainment. Callie is such a beautiful addition to your family. I hope you and your wife (Wilson)..lol have a great life adventure in your cabin retreat.
I would totally support the idea of an ATV and a snowmobile for easier access to the natural supplies you need to live. I was actually surprised you didn’t at least have an ATV already, for the 3 seasons. I’m not naive to think that you are in this adventure/lifestyle to go back in time where there is no power involved in your life. They would actually make living this lifestyle easier on you. I’m in no way saying anything about your age, because you seem to be fitter than many men younger than you, but if these items can make getting to the “supplies” you need, your general health and fitness would last longer - go for it - especially if you have the means. Save the energy you would use getting to or bringing back stuff you need for when you bring it back and need to work around the homestead. (Does that make sense?). I’m glad you said our opinions won’t hold you back either way ... our opinions shouldn’t matter what you choose to do or not. Another great video, thanks for sharing.
get the sled and the bike, your reasoning is sound. I've set up something similar to what you have and went through the same thought process for the toys. When I started to think of them more as tools and less as toys "yes" came shortly after. I also found that bikes and sleds are way more reliable than they were in the 90's so needed maintenance/repairs are much less frequent than I remember.
A good tractor would serve your needs even better. It's like having an extra man around. Definitely do what you need done. Love the videos, you've inspired me
good question time ,money not to mention the peace of that place vs ease of work and added recreation and food gathering opportunities . Not my place to tell u what to do but one thought that comes to me is Time your younger then me and a hell of a lot fitter, but how many years of dragging what was it 35 logs in a season to make the sauna, next season you were talking about root cellar and the next cabin and you have some even longer range plans all of which excite im sure not just me but all of us.Now the question becomes whether applying some labor saving devices "atv, snowmobile etc" into your life now would gain you how many productive years later on because because of less wear and tear on your body?Because mate im here for the long haul and i want you to be as well ,i hope to be watching you in 10 yrs bringing a ten pointer in behind whatever your dragging the huge beast with :). Past your little little village pull to a close up and for you to say life is good fade to drone shot .Thanks sooooo much for taking the time and effort in your excellent filming and editing to allow us to watch over your shoulder as you bring it all to life.
Nobody can tell you whether or not they are worth it for the money, it is your money and time. But harvesting resources off your land is valuable. It preserves your resources. And eventually you will have more free time to explore. If I had 100 acres of public land (as we call it here in the states), I'd be exploring it every chance I could get. In the end you have a few big decisions to make, but it seems you have the support of your wife. That's big. Good luck with your decision and with the sauna build. The season is a changing, fast. Thanks for sharing!
Shawn.. off the cuff here, cause I took this question to my indoor outhouse, where I do my best thinking. This seemingly simple and innocent question opens enough considerations so you might spend an entire 2 hour "self reflections" video on the subject. There are valid concerns on both sides of the discussion, and I see many are already noted in these comments. Principle among them, I I think, is the question of an aging (sorry!) man alone in the bush. Adding your wife to the equation, including her preferences, would be a second important factor in your decision making process, and must be given a high priority for a man dedicated to family, as you seem to be. The third, for myself, would be the effect on Cali. You share a relationship with her that so parallels my own situation with my own dog that I sometimes tear up when watching the two of you in nature. Will she be the same happy girl chasing her "Daddy" through the woods on a noisy machine as she is walking and exploring nature the same way as her two legged pack leader? I don't know. I do know I am unqualified and unwilling to give my recommendations to a man so obviously in touch with himself. I do so love what I watch now, and will continue to watch no matter your decision, if THAT helps. I do remember a video of a man named Shawn selling things like camp stoves "cause he had no place to store them. Beyond that, I offer nothing except... "To thine own self be true."
I think that an ATV/snowmobile would offer more pro's than cons for the work that you do as well as the videos that you make. It would certainly help around the cabin with some of the heavy lifting and the prospect of easier access to more land for hunting and exploring is something I'm excited to see.
I think getting both a snowmobile and a four wheeler would be an asset for your family. Hence now woman in your life can also feel that they can contribute to the homestead. Don't get me wrong behind every great man is a greater woman. I understand how much your wife has done. Also, like you stated you don't want to deplete your land of it's assets. We love watching your vlogs. Again, thank you so much for you and your family sharing. Sincerely, Michelle and pup Harley, Arlington, Massachusetts.
I was thinking along that same line as would be able to use year round rather than just the winter with a snowmobile. A track system would be a great choice. Myself I would not be able to use a snowmobile in my area of the Appalachians due to the climate changing and much less snow in the winters.
@@michaelcaraway2305 Exactly, winter is just part of the year, why have something just sitting around unused 9 months of the year? One machine to rule them all!
@@usernick8928 ATV with a track kit might be a good idea, but i think you might be forgetting just how much snow his area can get. An ATV with tracks would be useless it would just get stuck as soon as you go off trail. He should get a used 2005-2010 Ski Doo Tundra/Scandic 550cc and then the fourweeler he was thinking of getting. THAT is the best of both worlds.
@@usernick8928 Lol wut? fourwheelers usually weigh over 650 pounds. Snowmobiles like the 550 Tundra weigh less than 500 pounds. And the Tundra floats on snow like a boss because its surface area is FAR more than a tracked ATV. He should look at something like this: www.snowmobile.com/specs/ski-doo/utility/2018/tundra-tm-lt/550f.html
Thanks for sharing with us Shawn. Definitely bring in the tools to help you survive out there. Gathering wood and food is the foremost important things to you and as WE get older it takes more equipment to help us thru the days work and hunt. The equipment would give you more time to enjoy the things you have built and add enjoyment to the times you set aside as personal fun time. You are enjoying LIFE and those few toys/tools will add both time and joyfulness to your life. Keep up the good work and entertainment.
Shawn, I don't live as primitive as you do, but I couldn't imagine not having my ATV. From watching all of your videos, I would get something to make your life a little easier. Keep up the good work.
@@MySelfReliance aw wow that's so cool never even heard of this until I watched your videos on the main cabin ! I figured you knew what you were doing but still kept staring at the log LOL ..thanks again and great video !
I heard from this method from my granny my grandpa was state-ranger on pinetrees when they're, guesd she called it "halfdried" - so 2-5month cut, still wet and full of pine tar so the fire and tar conglomerate in a good, I guess she called it "toasting" just like jars to protect the woodsurface, and let the wood dry fully afterwards.
SHAWN & OUR CALI !!! That wood stove is the one I have liked a lot !!! Maybe it is the blue color of it I just know I like it a lot !!! Love how your cabin is holding in the heat that is what a cabin is to hold in for you!!!
Regarding the ATV subject.. I know you said in one of your first videos that you wouldn’t use power tools for various reasons one of which is you hate the noise they make. Is there a chance you would feel the same about the noisy engines of an ATV or snowmobile?
I was a fan of you and what you're doing before cali was in the picture , though i definitely love her being a part of the whole thing now.the two of you are truely blessed to share this adventure together.
hey Shawn, Sunday vlog -awesome ! I have been a subscriber for a while and have made comments before but not about an ATV. I've wanted to but refrained, cause I felt not my place.I am so glad you are considering one, mainly for hauling rocks,logs,stones,etc. Sooner or later the wear and tear on your joints will catch up,take it from someone who knows bro.I have watched all your vids and you are so talented and living the dream dude! Keep on keeping on! I so look forward to a new video from you. As always man you are so lucky to have Calli. She is one COOL dog! Luv her. Take care bro
I think that both would add to your tools. Ive worked by myself many times and anything that has duel uses is a plus. thanks for sharing the things that you do.
The older you get the more you will need some "assistance" to help you with the weight of logs/rocks etc. Your back will love you for it in your golden years. And your mobility is paramount for enjoyment of your environment. Which for most of us in retirement, is what we have to look forward to.
Hi Sean I have a cabin in the woods and have both ATV and snowmobile. Makes my life so much easier and efficient. You’ll need a utility trailer for the firewood but worth its weight in gold. Your not getting younger and your bringing up excellent points for access to hunting and fishing locations. I’m a big fan of the Polaris sportsman. Jeff
Absolutely! And think about a snow machine! If they are in your budget! It would a real help in the winter and a safety feature as well as haling game, timber, water!
Shawn. We have been living on a small acreage for about a dozen years now. At the start there was little in the way of equipment but as time went on we bought a small tractor. It certainly made a large difference in the effort required to keep the place in order. However one thing we had not considered is that mechanization greatly increases both the ability and the tendency to change the natural environment around you. These changes are not all for the good and are not easily undone. If you guard against this machinery can be of great assistance. Keep up the excellent work
Man, I didn't follow your channel for a while cause I was being busy with stuff going on in my own life, but WOW!! The place developed in a gorgeous way! Looks fucking awesome, really, you did a great job!! Enjoy your time there!
Shawn, I think the reasons you gave for thinking about these vehicles are valid. I think in the long run it would make you more self reliant. I enjoyed your video and am looking forward to the next.
I would say acquire which ever will be more useful and can be used the most. For instance a snowmobile can only be used in winter and only if you have enough snow to keep the slides lubricated with snow. Or a 4x4 quad could be used all year, from skidding logs to dragging or packing game. At least here in West Michigan, a good 4x4 quad can go anywhere a snowmobile can go, as long as you can maintain momentum. It’s going to be a hard decision as to which you think you will be able to use more. I love the videos and the knowledge you have been sharing and learning with us. Thank you for all you and Mrs. James do.
I think if adding those things adds something extra to your capabilities to live off the land more then you should do it I don’t think it crosses the line of self sustainability. I think it opens up opportunity’s to spread your wings a little witch can only be a good thing. It will widen your hunting capabilities. Also you’ll be able to enjoy more of that beautiful country you’re in. Do what feels right in your heart. Love what you do my friend 👍🏻
Shawn. There are so many considerations or facets to your question regarding having a ATV or UTV. You will know the answer. Probably a yes if it will make living there better. Thanks for the video and a few scenes of your girl Cali.
Loved the video. My only concern with an atv or snowmobile is the maintenance/repair work you’d end up having to do in the bush. Extra belts, spark plugs, etc. are an added cost to consider. Also, what happens when the inevitable breakdown happens and you’re miles from the Cabin? How do you get your machine back to the Cabin for repairs given the fact you’re there alone?
Scott Redmond, have you ever watched mountain men? The one guy that flys out into the wilderness of Alaska to trap all winter. He has an old beater of a Skidoo. He broke down one winter and it took him over a day to hike back to his cabin and get another engine. He loaded on a sled dragged it out to his Skidoo and changed it right on the trail. With these modern machines Shawn is less likely to have anything near that bad. Especially if he keeps it properly maintained. Lots of guys abuse the hell out of their machines and they keep going
I grew up on a large farm. We had a 1956 Massey Harris Canadian made tractor with implements, a TroyBilt tiller, a Polaris Playmate snow machine and a 36" sickle bar mower. We cut (with a Stihl chainsaw) and split (by hand- mall and wedges) 30 FULL cords of hardwood per year off our forest land. We had 15 acres of truck garden to be split for sustenance and for sale. My tough WW2 Navy vet dad believed in self reliance, and hard work. He did not allow a mechanical wood splitter for fear it would make us all soft. Which meant my brother and I were among the strongest kids in school. If it weren't for the mechanical equipment and tools we *did* have, we would not have been able to do what we did, while dad worked as an engineer full time. I lived a similar lifestyle to you except on our northern US farm, we had the luxury of a few implements. I'd recommend getting every gas or electric implement that you can to take the workload off of you, and get yourself a high quality, long lasting amorphous solar collection array for electric heat and powering tools, lights and household items. It's not cheating. Heck, we never had a TV in my house until I was 12 years old. We had wood heat, with oil heat water radiator backup. So, I wonder why we even had electricity at all. But we're humans with brains and brain-thought up implements. Use them to make your life easier. God bless, and love your forward thinking. Enjoy your vids.
I wonder whether some type of horse/pony or mule wouldn't be an easier option? It would still involve feed and maintenance, also protection from bears but it could help in moving logs, carrying loads etc and it could virtually go over any terrain. Can't wait for the next episodes.
My grandfather was a real pioneer born in 1909 he had clydes work horses as his go to around the 1960s he upgraded to an artic cat jag for pulling logs from the wood lot witch we still own today he also had a partner chainsaw no safety guard this guy is a pioneer of are century and his health is more important as he ages hr has nothing to prove as he's already showed how strong he was just by building the cabin you deserve a side by side or any type of work vehicle that'll make you're life easier machinery was made to make are lives easier there's a reason in the late 1800s early 1900 century why people had children at 13 14 years of age and we're dead by 50 because they worked so hard
Mules or donkeys need extra care in cold climates. Typically a rug or blanket wrap. They are also very stubborn and hard to do work with when they are uncomfortable unlike horses. They make ok pack animals but as for drafting (dragging and pulling), they are not my favorite. We have two horses and two donkeys based on our experience if anyone chooses the beast of burden route be sure to keep them in pairs at least as they are social animals and will become quite depressed with out similar species interaction and the occasional dog visit never seemed to be enough. Given the volume of food and water they consume and Shawn's proximity to predators, I would go with an ATV or UTV as they would create less headaches.
Over the years as I got older I needed more help to move things around. My son and I would compete against each other in hauling wood, lifting stuff, just stupid things we thought was fun. I built special things to help haul wood, big commercial wheelbarrows for dirt, cement. As I got older I didn't need this anymore, I needed a tractor, woodspliter, trailer stuff to make it easier. Now partly disabled I see where having these things earlier may have kept me from wearing out my body. I to pushed it to the limit like you, as I have told you, we are a lot alike in our work ethics. So the sooner you get a machine to help take some of the work out of the day, the better you will be. I don't know what you need in your area, just think of all the trips you make carrying the logs and lumber. My grandfather said some of the old farmers would talk about it being better in the old days, but I've never seen any of them trade their tractors for a team of horses. I understand why you do it the way you do. Stay safe
Hi Shawn! Thanks for all your videos! I was wondering if you have ever heard anything about "green" coal. It's coal easily made out of straw with a burning process named pyrolysis. It's an easy way to reduce the amount of wood you need but also doesn't produce any smoke. I know you're absolutelly not in a lack of wood, but as it's really easy to make, maybe you could learn a little about it ? Greetings from France Ps: sorry if i made mistakes, i'm a French-Canadian, and sadly more French than Canadian ^^
I think it would be wonderful if a company donated one to you😊 you bring so much to us knowledge beautiful scenery that so many of us don’t or won’t ever get to experience! Not to mention all the yummy foods you make😊 always ❤️Cali 🐶
ATV and snowmobile. As that make your life and work easy thats ok but in my opinion you should use sometimes but not always,same as chainsaw or other stuf that you use sometime not always
I vote "no" on the ATV and/or snow mobile, at least for now. I would be OK with electric power tools though. The ATV and snowmobile would just tear up the terrain around your homestead and ruin the scenic beauty of your property. I am 70 years old and fairly fit. I know the damage that hard labor does to my body at my age and I am sure that what you are doing is taking a certain toll on yours as well. I greatly admire what you are doing and the way you are doing it. Please continue for as long as you can. Thank you for sharing your adventure with us.
Happy daylight savings ! Not that it affects ou very much out there haha. Thanks for the sneak peek. How is the elbow? I believe hauling heavy logs (extreme traction) could also aggravate tennis elbow. So maybe put that on the + side for an ATV or something. The snow looks so pretty!! I am looking at the drone shots of the roof and wondering whether you think having some heat escape out the roof serves a purpose, or will you put some more insulation up there eventually? it is amazing how well our stove works now with the adjustments you have made.
My Pop is 86 going on 56....He is computer savvy man so I told him about your channel....He absolutely loves seeing new things he never seen befor...He was totally amazed how you burn The logs to protect them....He is hooked like everyone else...Thanks for sharing your knowledge and techniques..........T.Gunz.......
Maybe you could get both machines to get done what you need to do now and explore. Later on as you get established and know the land better you could sell them if you think you do not need them anymore. A good machine of any type you need would help expedite the process.
A four wheeler, maybe with optional tracks, is about the most that I would have. A four wheeler is more useful than any sled, but then again, Shawn, it's your dollar. Another great video again, Shawn, from this fan of yours, thanks!
The ability to collect resources that you need would benefit you in the now and future plus medically it would save you from strains on your back and arms, legs, neck injuries. So with the multiple uses that it would bring you the benefits out way the maintenance cost and insurance over a year would be minimal. Plus time saving. I truly don’t see a downside to this endeavor that you’re considering.
My initial response to the ATV.. "eh, he can probably build one from some logs, moss, and a couple sixteen penny nails".While not fitting in with the self-reliance mantra you discussed, I think that the benefit it provides to you and your family as they come to your cabin more is worth the investment. On a hand-crafting note, I'd love to see take a gander at building a rowboat or your own canoe. Thanks for all your content and hard work!
Great value orange juice he always watches her and she is trained about that , just like he has her trained not to beg the dinner table.. also he talks about the times when he can’t have her around, like when felling timber trees..
You have a cali you need a sled for her to pull .. and perhaps another pup to help... skidoo's and atv's cost time Maitinance fees/parts fuel and are generally a pain unless you're an enthusiast ...dogs cost food vets bills and play time ... while the vets can sting the play time seems to make up for most of it .. lots of dog sledders in ont north many who would be more than happy to help outfit newbies and get more interest in the sport but that's just my opinion always a pleasure seeing your efforts at the cabin life if only more people started unplugging and just enjoying nature like you are ...
I would definitely see the benefits of an ATV and/or a snowmobile - with your abilities the maintenance is no big deal and just what it would add hunting, fishing and wood gathering would be amazing
To ATV or not to ATV. You're the one that ultimately has to decide -- your land, your family. Since you asked, though. Oh no! I'd hate to hear motorized vehicles in your slice of heaven. Snowshoes? Cross country skis?
@@jodyknowles12 I was thinking what good viewing it would be if Shawn tried to train a wild moose to drag logs around :) lol. Love your videos! Keep them coming, you can always edit out any motor sounds from the videos if you do decide to get a vehicle.
I look at your gear list, some of your tools your clothes etc and see no sign of any kind of purist ideological position being taken, nor do I hear it in your vids. So, get what's convenient to the life you are pursuing. Which season causes you the most difficulties - buy the machine that best suits that season. If money is no object, buy both. Each will eventually dent your 'self reliance' due to their needs for gas, maintenance and repairs, insurance etc, but perfection is a pipe dream, and you seem a very realistic guy, so I am sure you will choose wisely and get the best for your actual needs.. For myself I couldn't say which because I have never been in your situation and almost certainly never will. Good luck :)
I think at this point in your life you deserve what ever makes things easier for you and your wife. You work your tail off all the time. I would love to see video of all the exploring you could do.
I purchased a four wheeler for the first time a few years back, and since I work at a dealership that sells tractors, lawn mowers, chainsaws, and four wheelers, I decided to just get an older one that still had some life left in it. My atv is nothing fancy, and it won't win any speed or power competitions but it was for work, and I found that not only would it work for spot spraying my pastures, but when I put a simple little trailer behind it, I could use it to go deep in the woods to cut my firewood, and in three or four little loads, I had enough to fill my pickup with firewood. I also found it handy to chain a log and pull it out to the log splitter. I've done some recreation, even with my oldie, and I leave the trails with a grin on my face, so I guess that's what I was going for. I tell you this because even though I purchased this for only one reason, I've used it quite a bit more than I imagined I would. My only suggestion is, purchase one not only for what the reviews say, but from a place that has a stellar record of being a good sales/parts/service dealership. Having a piece of equipment means it's going to break down, make sure they are very good to support you when this happens.
I've seen guys that could work like a mule and now they're 50 and can't cut grass on a riding lawnmower.you're not young and have nothing to prove to anyone. buy what you need that practically is better for your health and time.
this is not the same kind of hard work, this is custom, not mass produced. I'm sure if he made a lifelong career out of this head be in the same boat. This is probably making him live longer at this point, decent amount of 'exercise'.
@@gibbsm yes, but looking forward, he is not getting younger. dragging firewood will be significant effort, lost energy. get to and from distant place especially when snow is deep takes a lot of strength and stamina even for younger people. so atv and snowmobile is something what can bring him relief now and in the future.
Matt, it only takes ONE false step when handling a too heavy load to rupture a disc in the back. Or fracture a vertebrate. The older we get the more subject we are to such injuries. My hurting back is testimony to that sad fact of life. Matt, don't forget, also repetitive motion injuries. Many parts of the body can suffer permanent damage, even from *intense* short term motion. How much intense wood splitting/chopping can one do before injury makes itself known? Couple of months? Couple of weeks?
Matt Gibbs hauling logs, gravel chopping wood digging out rocks isn't good for your health as you age you start getting tendinitis in your joints. A typist will get carpel tunnel.body builders can't train the way they did when they were younger.the old saying is work smarter and not harder.why do you think athletes retire from sports? It's because they can't do what they did when they were younger. They may be in better shape than people the same age but they also have problems from the sport they played. Living on a ranch or off grid require a lot of work than urban living.
I got a 06 Honda fourtrax with 20000 km on it that hauled 5 cord of wood every year. Changed a few bearings, a battery, the brakes need cleaning regularly, and had trouble with the electronic shift. They do come with manual shift. Never had to walk home, still use it today. Very reliable, light, and has pull chord.
Debating to have a 4 wheeler is a simple debate if you replace the word "4-wheeler" with "horse". Before mechanization of labor, animals were used for work. It was not uncommon for a horse to add to the homestead for plowing, towing, traveling, hauling - all the things a 4 wheeler does now. The debate then was, "How much will it cost me to maintain a horse?" (feed, care, general maintenance) Same debate, different tool. I look at pictures of my great grandparents farm and I can see all the things you are doing they had to do as well. But then it was the early 1900's.
Jef, I grew up on a farm with mules and tractors. Agree 100% "Same debate, different tool." With 1 big difference. The mules had to have feed and water everyday. The tractors didn't, especially after crops had been harvested.
Danny, let's talk about cost for a moment. I haven't done an analysis, but suspect the costs of animals vs vehicles may be very similar, both short and long term. Especially in Canada where housing of animals is a larger issue than it is here in the SE USA. Good draft animals, their housing, fencing, feed + grain/hay storage, harness + other gear and vet costs is expensive, in most cases. Initial costs may be very similar, especially when housing needs are considered. A vehicle can be parked under a shed year round. Animals need more shelter than that, both from predators and the climate. Amount of additional protection, naturally, varies by region. Now to easier... It is much easier with the purchase of decent quality vehicles. When not needed, a vehicle can be parked under a shed and ignored. (Once a month or so, it should be serviced to keep it in running order.) On the other hand.... Animals require 24/7 care, year round. They must be sheltered, fed, watered, and sanitary conditions taken care of on a daily basis. Providing water can be a serious issue in winter. Can also be an issue in times of drought, if a good 4-season water supply is not conveniently located. Animals need exercise, just as people do to remain healthy. They, IMO, need much more than the minimal care a vehicle needs when it's parked under a shed. Good weather, bad weather, it doesn't matter. Dead of winter or the height of summer, working or not, they need daily care. If costs must be kept down, it is very labor intensive to provide grain and hay for animals. More so, if grazing time/area is limited. At the same time, the more storage that is required for harvested feeds, the more the initial costs are increased. It's simply hard work to glean fields after corn has been picked. (We didn't have enough land to grow corn for animal feed.) Square bales of hay are heavy. Round bales require tractors to move them. Vet care is another issue. Addressed with equipment to transport a draft animal to the vet or to pay a vet for house calls. Many folks have the skills to do routine maintenance on a vehicle. Many folks don't have the same set of skills needed for hooves, vaccinations and other "maintenance" needs of large animals. This post has grown far too long. Hope there's something within these thoughts that are helpful for you.
I vote yes to both, with a caveat that you use them sparingly for now. This will keep you healthier, which in turn, will allow you to be self reliant longer.
you need to feed the wildlife if you want them to survive around you. i recommend all and every type of wildlife seeds to grow wildlife plants for your future abundance! plant half of your garden for your furry friends! the motorsports will be awesome vids but isnt it more awesome to increase the diversity at your door? there are all kinds of seed mixes set up for precisely this task. if you doubt humans can improve wildlife numbers - my direct experience says i have done it 😁😁😁 the very best people living with the land do this always and forever. just put your compost away from your kitchen and only ever feed it with plants. guys stop replying i mute every negative comment. if you dont understand how all creatures geoengineer earth i do not want to talk to you.
I was just wondering how the wildlife survived before he was there. Im pretty sure the wildlfe will still be there when we're all gone although i would feed them because i love animals.
He's literally surrounded by wild plants and animals. They just know to keep their distance. Especially having a dog around. Cervids in particular do not like dogs for obvious reasons. Besides, you don't really want wild animals poking around your door every day and getting too familiar with human settlements. That doesn't end well.
