The ISG Team archive.
Level Up
Apr 26, 2018
Overdoses for Responder Zero
Overdosing is a problem that's becoming as universal to many cities as heart attacks and car accidents. If one happens near you, what do you do?
Mindset
Apr 25, 2018
Tier None
In the military and martial culture, "tier 1" refers to the very best - those with the most money and best equipment. We discuss the reality: we're 'tier none'.
Firearm Skills
May 14, 2018
Why the AK?
In the past, we've discussed how to run the AK, but the question remains: Why choose one over another platform?
The Deep End
Jun 24, 2018
The Train
The old American Experiment is on some troubling tracks. Here are some thoughts on what we can do.
Mindset
Apr 25, 2018
Inauguration Day
A short blog post bringing some perspective to the wider world as we navigate Inauguration Day.
Mindset
Apr 25, 2018
2020: Basic Training for the Decade
Here's to hoping for a safe, happy, and productive 2021 - while acknowledging that it was very likely the first in a series of very troubled years.
Technical
Jan 31, 2019
Mythbusting: Baofengs Radios
You see these radios everywhere; influencers trying to look technically competent post pictures of their Baofengs constantly. Why is that bad? Let's dive in.
Technical
Jan 31, 2019
The Definitive IFAK Article
The one-stop-shop article for what you need and where to get it. No marketed or paid-for premade solutions here.
Firearm Skills
May 14, 2018
Guns of ISG: The Makarov
In this article, we will outline below why we believe that the Makarov should be considered as a well-rounded compact EDC carry gun for OCONUS use.Enter the Mak
Mythbusting
Apr 26, 2018
Bad practice: Is your spouse a Liability?
The case of Mark and Patricia McCloskey have one dramatic lesson to be learned - if you're not discussing security with your family, you're wrong.
Firearm Skills
May 14, 2018
Guns of ISG: The Cereberus Project
After the 2009 and 2011 ammunition shortages, it hit me that odd calibers are usually out of favor and in stock. But are multi-caliber firearms safe & reliable?
The Deep End
Jun 24, 2018
Spheres of Violence 3: The Universal Language
Those encouraging violence in our society are trapping us in a deadly game. We discuss the outcomes and consequences of the "Boys of Low Standing" and violence.
The Training Mindset
Here at ISG, we talk much on the topic of “mindset” as it applies to situations - here we discuss mindset as it relates to training.
K9 Emergencies 101: Bleeding Control
Your dogs get hurt, too. Learn to apply the skills and acquire the equipment needed for everything you'll want to keep your puppers safe from catastrophe.
Mindset
Apr 25, 2018
Trust your Gut: Reading People
A tremendous amount of what we communicate is done without saying a word. We look at some of the things to look for when interacting with people.
Technical
Jan 31, 2019
Radio Communication 201: Short Range HAM Radio Operation
In this article, Drew breaks down the basics of short-range HAM radio, bands, and operations to better understand their pros and cons in the US and abroad.
Mythbusting
Apr 26, 2018
Concussions, the Silent Epidemic
One in Four Americans report to having suffered a concussion, but not nearly that amount know what to do about it.
Level Up
Apr 26, 2018
Intro to K9 Emergencies: IFAK Composition
Dogs get hurt, too. What you need to patch them up isn't all-too-different from what you'd use on yourself, but the differences are important.
News & Events
May 6, 2019
Particle Collider to Blame for 2020, leading scientists say
Breaking news: Leading scientists believe act of slamming together "God particles" may have awakened cosmic wrath.
Tactical
May 14, 2018
The myth and legend of the Gray Man
While blending in is an entirely reasonable goal, we discuss why so often the lip service paid to 'being gray' sells the concept woefully short.
Level Up
Apr 26, 2018
Triage for Responder Zero
A quick and dirty guide on triage for non-medical personnel.
Mindset
Apr 25, 2018
Special Forces Worship
The preparedness community loves guns, and our SF units are the major leagues of using them. But is right for them right for us?
Level Up
Apr 26, 2018
CAT TQ 101
The Combat Application Tourniquet (CAT) from North American Rescue is easily the most ubiquitous tourniquet in the North American landscape. Heres some tips.
Level Up
Apr 26, 2018
Ruth Stout's "No Work Gardening" Method
If you're looking to plant a garden but don't have the time for digging and soil amendment, give this a try. All you need is hay, seeds, and a patch of ground.
Firearm Skills
May 14, 2018
Pistol Shooting Drills 201
A collection of warm-up pistol drills to work at on the range. Focusing on the fundamentals and marksmanship.
Mindset
Apr 25, 2018
Collecting Hammers and the Pillars of Skill Building
There's an adage in the training world; "tools for the toolbox". but are people really building a complete and useful panoply of skills, or collecting hammers?
Technical
Jan 31, 2019
Selecting a Backpack
From the mundane to the opulent, we've tested a wide variety of backpacks for sustainment, fieldcraft, and emergencies. Here are some of our takeaways.
Adventure
Apr 25, 2018
Neosho Falls
In the interest of both history and adventure, we often travel to place that have been left behind. This is one of their stories.
The Deep End
Jun 24, 2018
Gell-Mann Amnesia and Group Identity
Schopenhauer said "All truth passes through 3 stages". Here we discuss why ridicule and violent opposition are the defenses of weak organizations.
Mobility
Jan 31, 2019
Building an ISG Rig 3: Land Rover Discovery II Roverhaul
The Land Rover Discovery II was a vampire of the car world, notoriously sucking owners dry with repair bills. They also had some superhuman capability off road.
Mindset
Apr 25, 2018
COVID19 and the Type III Emergency
With COVID19 making big waves around the world today, it's time to weigh in on some of the writing on the wall, what we can do about it, and what we can't.
Technical
Jan 31, 2019
A Primer on Radio Communication
We take communications perilously for granted; in the age of cell phones, what are some other options for emergencies and adventuring? Drew explains.
Technical
Jan 31, 2019
A Primer on Protective Masks
With disaster management, it's common to hear talk about Gas Masks. Are they useful? Not until they are, and then... with caveats. Here's our take.
Adventure
Apr 25, 2018
Maudlow
Contrary to the “Hills have Eyes” myths perpetrated by Hollywood’s effete, rural America is a lost, lonely place that deserves understanding, not ridicule.
Mindset
Apr 25, 2018
The Seeds of (unconventional) War
2020 gifted us a strike on a top Iranian official right off the bat. Here's our take on what it means for us.
Level Up
Apr 26, 2018
Identifying Good Training
In this article, we share some thoughts on how to identify good instructors and courses, and how to be a good student so you get the most out of your training.
Mindset
Apr 25, 2018
The Thin Blue Line
The Thin Blue Line is supposed to represent stalwart defenders holding off chaos from the masses. Check us out for our perspective on the real threats.
Level Up
Apr 26, 2018
Field Health: Introduction to Field Health Concerns
Most of the discussion around medical concerns are geared towards the Type I emergency. What about the longer term threats to health? Join us to dive deeper.
Mindset
Apr 25, 2018
Responder Zero
Before those with the authority to help, those who choose whether or not they have the capacity to help are on scene. If your time comes, will you be an asset?
Tactical
May 14, 2018
Escape and Evasion 301: Harsh Reality
There's no shortage of 'counter-custody' courses teaching citizens how to escape captivity. Let's discuss the best way to escape: planning and avoidance.
Mobility
Jan 31, 2019
Driving 401: Immobilized Vehicle
The vast majority of vehicle tactics courses try and directly translate military, security contractor, or police tactics for civilian use. Here's our take.
Firearm Skills
May 14, 2018
Shooting from Retention
Retention shooting is a phrase that's commonly used, but poorly understood. We tackle the visible part of the iceberg, and give some ideas on retention training
Mobility
Jan 31, 2019
Vehicle Everyday Carry
We spend about 1/12th of our lives in some type of transit. Being ready with the skills and equipment is prudent and smart, here's our take on what to have.
Mindset
Apr 25, 2018
Don't be a Parrot
ISG's take on why 'safety in numbers' is crippling an honest discussion on the state of the self-protection industry. Join us outside the mainstream.
News & Events
May 6, 2019
INFOSUM, August 27, 2019
The ISG Weekly Information Summary: An unbiased look at the happenings around the globe, and how they could impact life closer to home. August 27, 2019.
Mobility
Jan 31, 2019
Building an ISG Rig 2: The Land Cruiser
The 80-series Land Cruiser is riding a wave of well-deserved popularity right now. If you've ever considered what it'd take to rebuild one, we've got answers.
Mythbusting
Apr 26, 2018
Mythbusting: Nuclear Emergencies
Radiation is one of those threats that is universally feared, and for good reason. We spoke to nuclear Engineer Rick H. to separate the truth from the SciFi.
Mindset
Apr 25, 2018
What's it like to Starve?
Starvation is one of the most deeply rooted enemies of humankind. Much has been said on it and how to prevent it, but what happens when you're truly starving?
Level Up
Apr 26, 2018
Rainwater Harvesting
Rainwater harvesting is an excellent way to provide clean or treatable water for your garden or emergencies. Barry V discusses how to harvest rainwater.
News & Events
May 6, 2019
INFOSUM, July 15, 2019
The ISG Weekly Information Summary: An unbiased look at the happenings around the globe, and how they could impact life closer to home. July 15, 2019
News & Events
May 6, 2019
INFOSUM, July 8, 2019
The ISG Weekly Information Summary: An unbiased look at the happenings around the globe, and how they could impact life closer to home. July 08, 2019
News & Events
May 6, 2019
INFOSUM, July 2, 2019
The ISG Weekly Information Summary: An unbiased look at the happenings around the globe, and how they could impact life closer to home. July 02, 2019
Technical
Jan 31, 2019
Building your adventure vehicle 1: So you want a rig?
Among our core skills is mobility. Part of that is having a solid vehicle. So what do you do in an age of disposable rides? Build your own, of course.
Mythbusting
Apr 26, 2018
Bad Practice: Don't Maim People
In something that should be self-explanatory, we tackle the topic of why you should -under no circumstances- train specifically to maim other humans.
News & Events
May 6, 2019
INFOSUM, June 24, 2019
The ISG Weekly Information Summary: An unbiased look at the happenings around the globe, and how they could impact life closer to home. June 24, 2019.
Tactical
May 14, 2018
Improvised Weapons for the N(o)PE
There's a trend in the edgier end of the tactical community to talk about improvised weapons. How much of it is realistic? Check us out for our answer.
News & Events
May 6, 2019
INFOSUM, June 17, 2019
The ISG Weekly Information Summary: An unbiased look at the happenings around the globe, and how they could impact life closer to home. June 17, 2019.
News & Events
May 6, 2019
INFOSUM June 09, 2019
The ISG Weekly Information Summary: An unbiased look at the happenings around the globe, and how they could impact life closer to home. June 09, 2019.
News & Events
May 6, 2019
INFOSUM, June 03, 2019
The ISG Weekly Information Summary: An unbiased look at the happenings around the globe, and how they could impact life closer to home. June 03, 2019.
Firearm Skills
May 14, 2018
Guns of ISG: The case for the 1911
Loved and hated in equal parts, the 1911 is a piece of American firearms history that just refuses to leave... either way, knowing how to run one right is good.
News & Events
May 6, 2019
INFOSUM: May 20th, 2019
The ISG Weekly Information Summary: An unbiased look at the happenings around the globe, and how they could impact life closer to home. May 20th, 2019. Special.
News & Events
May 6, 2019
INFOSUM: May 13, 2019
The ISG Weekly Information Summary: An unbiased look at the happenings around the globe, and how they could impact life closer to home. May 13th, 2019.
The Deep End
Jun 24, 2018
Spheres of Violence 2: Realistic Conflict Theory
Conflict is a topic that demands our attention, yet few of us know much about it's roots. We discuss why we're not as far from 'Lord of the Flies' as you think.
News & Events
May 6, 2019
INFOSUM: May 6th, 2019
The ISG Weekly Information Summary: An unbiased look at the happenings around the globe, and how they could impact life closer to home. May 6th, 2019.
Firearm Skills
May 14, 2018
Guns of ISG: Your Secondary Weapon, the Rifle
There's a common reference with firearms; your 'primary and secondary', meaning your rifle and pistol. We believe that if you're not at war, this is backwards.
News & Events
May 6, 2019
INFOSUM: April 29th 2019
The ISG Weekly Information Summary: An unbiased look at the happenings around the globe, and how they could impact life closer to home. April 29 2019.
Level Up
Apr 26, 2018
Subsistence Gardening: Starting a Garden
Starting a garden can be a daunting task. In this article, ISG author and master gardener Barry V. gives his some thoughts on how to start a subsistence garden.
News & Events
May 6, 2019
INFOSUM: April 22, 2019
The ISG Weekly Information Summary: An unbiased look at the happenings around the globe, and how they could impact life closer to home. April 22 2019.
Mythbusting
Apr 26, 2018
Bad Practice: Standing in front of your Shooters
There have been a rash of videos lately from Brazil to Africa showing firearms training with guys forward of the firing line. What should we make of this taboo?
Mythbusting
Apr 26, 2018
Bad Practice: Knives and Guns and Cardboard, Oh My....
There's some silly junk out there with guys training to use their knife and firearm in a close range fight - at the same time. Why is that bad practice?
Technical
Jan 31, 2019
Medical Skills: Don't forget the basics
Often, discussions of medical equipment center around wound packing, tourniquets, and chest seals... but what are we missing when we skip straight to trauma?
News & Events
May 6, 2019
INFOSUM: April 15th, 2019
The ISG Weekly Information Summary: An unbiased look at the happenings around the globe, and how they could impact life closer to home. April 15 2019.
News & Events
May 6, 2019
INFOSUM: April 8th, 2019
The ISG Weekly Information Summary: An unbiased look at the happenings around the globe, and how they could impact life closer to home. April 8 2019.
Mindset
Apr 25, 2018
Fact to Action: Abduction Resilience
Prevent kidnapping and protect yourself with these facts and approachs to train your family. Prevent and detect threats before they happen.
Mythbusting
Apr 26, 2018
Bad Practice: Israeli Tactical's Tactical Wobble
There are some practices that are deeply rooted in problematic tactics. We look at the "Tactical Wobble" today, and why it'll get you killed.
Level Up
Apr 26, 2018
Painting your Rifle: A Guide
Painting your rifle is more than just a move to emulate the cool guys - it actually has some practical benefits. Learn more about how to set it up right.
Tactical
May 14, 2018
Escape and Evasion 201: The Lam
Have you ever considered what it's like to be hunted by other humans? In E&E2, we discuss trying to actually escape and some of the things you can expect.
Mindset
Apr 25, 2018
Be Prepared...?
At ISG we pride ourselves on being different. Why? Because we believe "be prepared..." is an incomplete sentence. Find out how to finish it.
Tactical
May 14, 2018
Escape and Evasion 101: Overview
The worst case scenario for most people is illegal detention by criminals or hostile states. We discuss some myths and consideratons about E&E.
Mindset
Apr 25, 2018
Hard Lessons: Hurricane Florence, Part 1
Ever wondered what happens when a community takes a hurricane on the chin? Michael Jenkins shares his story... and it's not a survival fantasy.
Mythbusting
Apr 26, 2018
Bad Practice: Mission Critical Baby carrier and holster
Ever wondered why it's not a great idea to strap a gun to your baby, and your baby to your chest? Neither did we until we saw Mike Warren. Here's our rebuttal.
The Deep End
Jun 24, 2018
Thoughts on Socialism
Socialism has emerged among western Millennials as the alternative to abusive capitalism. What's the problem? We haven't had capitalism in more than 100 years.
Level Up
Apr 26, 2018
Why URBEX?
Urban exploration gives us a real world laboratory to test our kit, fitness, skill, and resolve. Here, we discuss why we think it's worth the risks.
Mindset
Apr 25, 2018
Why The Raven?
The Raven was selected to represent the ISG family due to it's legendary adaptability, it's problem solving, and it's commitment to it's community.
Technical
Jan 31, 2019
Water in Emergencies: Hazards and Purification
Water is a non-negotiable, high-use consumable. You'll never not need it. Join us to learn about how to treat your water, no matter your situation.
Technical
Jan 31, 2019
Water in Emergencies: Swiftwater and Floods
We've discussed how to sanitize water for consumption, but what do you know about the risks associated with flooding? Real talk: This is important.
Tactical
May 14, 2018
Hard Lessons: Urban Survival
You want to talk about what it's like living in the urban landscape in a collapse? Here's some real talk: it's right here, in front of our faces.
Level Up
Apr 26, 2018
Urban Skills: Emergency Rappelling
Ever used that rigger's belt to rappel? The ISG team hit the field to find a collapsed environment and test rappelling skills and kit. Here's what we learned.
Level Up
Apr 26, 2018
Urban Search and Rescue Codes
Have you ever seen the X on abandon homes during emergencies? Here, we decode the FEMA X-code, as well as INSARAG's codes.
Mindset
Apr 25, 2018
Understanding Emergencies
The foundation of Integrated Skills Group, Understanding Emergencies is the lens through which we view every potential problem and find solutions. Start Here.
Arms Law
Jan 31, 2019
Traveling with Firearms - On the Road
Traveling with a firearm can be a confusing legal gray area. Arm yourself with knoweldge if you intend to arm yourself on the road.
The Deep End
Jun 24, 2018
Toxic Masculinity: Don't knock it 'til you try it
You've probably heard of toxic masculinity. You've probably heard the outrage on both sides. Want the reality without the politics? Check us out.
Tactical
May 14, 2018
The "Not in the face!" School of Violence
In this article, we discuss how the bad advice of irrelevant instructors teaching technique without context will get you killed. Don't get killed. Read up.
Tactical
May 14, 2018
Hard Lessons: The Non-Permissive Environment
Think you know about the non-permissive environment? We give some hard lessons about laws, ethics, and methods of staying under the radar.
Mindset
Apr 25, 2018
The Look of Substance: Tactical Pageantry
As we say: gun culture is a pageant, not a talent show. Here's why being a poser or bromanndo will never make you cool.
Tactical
May 14, 2018
The “Core Four” of EDC
EDC is a worn out, tired topic, but we discuss four items you can have nearly anywhere that will help you be an asset in any circumstances.
The Deep End
Jun 24, 2018
The Best Medicine: Lessons from Afghanistan
It's time to get personal at ISG. Learn some of the foundational experiences that helped shape our philosophy, mentality, and approach.
