The ISG Team archive.
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.
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.
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?
Mythbusting
Apr 26, 2018
Mythbusting: The "Carrington Event" and Solar Cycle Doom
EMP has been a boogieman for preppers and survivalists for years. Did you know it's largely outdated and based on fiction? We bring out the science. Check it.
Firearm Skills
May 14, 2018
Guns of ISG: The Revolver
Grandpappy's revolver might not be the ideal weapon for concealed carry anymore, but you should still know how to pick up and run one efficiently. Learn more.
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?
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.
Mythbusting
Apr 26, 2018
Mythbusting: Bug Out Vehicles
Bug out Vehicles buck the ISG trend of eye-rollingly bad concepts; they actually serve a dual purpose. Join us as we discuss the benefits of an Off-Road Rig.
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.
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.
Level Up
Apr 26, 2018
Lines of Equipment 2: Sustainment
The Bug out Bag is one of the most flogged and flawed concepts out there. Learn how to sustain yourself with the right equipment instead of trying to bug out.
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.
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.
Technical
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.
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.
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.
Tactical
May 14, 2018
Everyday Carry: Everybody's Wrong
In this article, we define what EDC is really about: matching your ability and equipment in a way that makes you always an asset.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Mythbusting
Apr 26, 2018
Mythbusting: Your LifeStraw isn't good enough.
If you're looking at anything more than a stroll through the woods with reasonably clean water, you need a real water filter.
Mythbusting
Apr 26, 2018
Mythbusting: Super-Eruptions
Ever worried about the Yellowstone Caldera blowing it's top? We've got some solid information on why you should give eruptions serious thought.
Firearm Skills
May 14, 2018
Guns of ISG: Running the AK
The AK's popularity has rocketed with American shooters in the last decade, but have the techniques kept pace? We say "not even a little". Learn to run the AK.
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.
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.
Technical
Jan 31, 2019
Picking Locks: Non-Destructive Bypass
When discretion matters, knowing how to defeat security without leaving a trail of destruction is invaluable. Join us as we discuss defeating physical security.
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.
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?
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.
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.
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.
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
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?
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 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.
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.
Mindset
Apr 25, 2018
After Action: Street Race Wreck
In this review of a street race wreck, the ISG team discusses skills and tools to be an asset in a medical emergency.
Mythbusting
Apr 26, 2018
Bad Practice: "Advanced" courses for Beginners
Classes aren't your opportunity to self-promote. If you show up underready as a student, or allow it as an instructor, you're wrong. Here's how to avoid that.
Tactical
May 14, 2018
Bad Practice: Bad Holsters
Holsters are one of the first places people default to "It works for me" logic. Here's why that really means "I've never really tested it."
Tactical
May 14, 2018
Bad Practice: Dual Wielding
Chances are you already know that trying to shoot two long guns at once is a bad idea... we tackle the topic from a rational perspective in "Dual Wielding".
Tactical
May 14, 2018
Bad Practice: G-Wrap
In this Article, we confront the "G-Wrap" technique and give our thoughts on why this technique doesn't hold up based on our experiences in real world fights.
Mindset
Apr 25, 2018
Be Judgmental
Society has tried to condition judgment out of us, but making judgments is a cruicial part of seeing problems before they blindside you. Find out how here.
Tactical
May 14, 2018
Hard Lessons: Bring a Knife to a Gunfight
In this article we discuss when and how knives should be considered as an option on the self-protection spectrum. Ignore the clichés and study the short blade.
Mythbusting
Apr 26, 2018
Mythbusting: Preppers and Car Fires
Having 6 guns in a burning Jeep doesn't make you prepared. Learn how to stay sharp and avoid bad outcomes: read more Mythbusting.
Mindset
Apr 25, 2018
Carry The Fire
In ancient times, firebearers rode ahead protecting coals to light a signal fire for their tribe. In our time, we strive to do the same with our culture.
Mindset
Apr 25, 2018
Contextual Training
In this second part of the training series we discuss why it's critical to train with and without context to maximize your development when building skill.
Reviews
Jan 31, 2019
Course Review: Response to Active Shooter Medical
In this course, students were asked to stop active shooters and tend the wounded. Learn why we think this is a great idea that you should add to your training.
Reviews
Jan 31, 2019
Course Review: Shivworks ECQC
ECQC is perhaps the one course that truly defines the ISG approach to weapons handling. Check our review for why we view it as the "gold standard" in training.
Reviews
Jan 31, 2019
Course Review: Urban Defense
What ECQC is to the individual, Urban Defense is to the community. Check out what we learned from Legendary instructor Paul Howe in his 'Urban Defense Course'.
Firearm Skills
May 14, 2018
Carrying Crossdraw: Don't
In it's time, crossdraw made a lot of sense, but the days of controlling a horse with one hand while shooting a single action revolver with the other are over.
Firearm Skills
May 14, 2018
Deep Concealment and Cold Weather
Cold weather means changing your layers a bit. The ISG team tested different carry methods to determine which were best... read on to see our results.
Mindset
Apr 25, 2018
Don't Wear the Juice 1: Dunning-Kruger's Effect
Often, the loudest voices, the best circulated ideas, and the boldest assertions are from people who know little or nothing about what they're talking about.
Mindset
Apr 25, 2018
Don't Wear the Juice 2: Resiliency and Competence
In this follow up to our article on Dunning-Kruger's effect, we discuss how training properly creates a web of competence that counteracts incompetence.
Mobility
Jan 31, 2019
Driving 201: Road Tactics
Forget what you've seen in vehicle gunfighting courses. We discuss what's truly important when preparing for conflict in and around vehicles.
Level Up
Apr 26, 2018
Español para Norte Americanos
If you've ever wanted a simple primer with some phrases in Spanish, we've created one for you to both learn from, and use in the field.
Mindset
Apr 25, 2018
Everyday Awareness and Schrödinger's Cat
Awareness is more than sitting in the back corner or knowing where the exits are. We go beyond the clichés to bring you *actionable* situational awareness.
Firearm Skills
May 14, 2018
Guns of ISG: The Shotgun
The shotgun is the bastard child of the gun world, and for good reason, but you should still know these techniques for running one better than the enemy.
Reviews
Jan 31, 2019
Gear Review: 4Sevens Quark QT2L Flashlight
A good, durable, and efficient hand held torch is a crucial piece of equipment for the ISG lifestyle. We review the 4Sevens QT2L after years of use.
Reviews
Jan 31, 2019
Gear Review: Gerber Downrange Tomahawk
One of the most versatile pieces of gear, this Tomahawk has done everything from drawning blood to demolishing and contruction. Here are our thoughts.
Reviews
Jan 31, 2019
Gear Review: Gerber MP400
A good multi-tool bridges the gap between uselessness and the ability to perform small fixes. After years of use, we discuss the Gerber MP400.
Reviews
Jan 31, 2019
Gear Review: Isle Royale Mini
A good canvas bag has the classic elements of good looks, rugged construction, and generational durability... but at what cost? Check out our thoughts.
Reviews
Jan 31, 2019
Gear Review: Katadyne Vario Water Filter
No other item you pack is as important as your water filter. After years of testing, we break the silence on the Katadyne Vario and it's pros and cons.
Reviews
Jan 31, 2019
Gear Review: Saddleback Leather Backpack
Saddleback Leather claims "they'll fight over it when you're dead" of their backpack. After breaking a snap, we're ready to discuss why they may not have to.
Reviews
Jan 31, 2019
Gear Review: The Hill People Gear Umlindi
After testing the Hill People Gear Umlindi, ISG gives it's opinion on the bag's suitability for the ISG mission.
Reviews
Jan 31, 2019
Gear Review: Wolverine 1000-Mile Boots
Good boots are a thing of beauty, and these days, disposable. The 1000-mile boot is made to last... but is it competitive with modern hiking boots?
Technical
Jan 31, 2019
Glossary of Terms
This glossary is an easy reference to some of the terminology commonly used in preparedness circles.
The Deep End
Jun 24, 2018
The Great Reset
Eventually, all things break down. This article gives the scientific reasoning for ISG's existence. With care, our culture will continue after our society dies.
Firearm Skills
May 14, 2018
Guns of ISG: Introduction
We believe that guns are a responsibility, in addition to being a right. You owe it to those with whom you share a free society to be an asset, not a liability.
Firearm Skills
May 14, 2018
Guns of ISG: Why the Handgun?
It's said 'handguns are to fight your way to a rifle'. That's nonsense. The handgun is often ideal, but you'll need to put in work to be an asset.
Tactical
May 14, 2018
Hard Lessons: Fights
Most people teaching self defense have never been punched in the face. we give a personal, practical, and raw view of fights and how they affects your life.
Mindset
Apr 25, 2018
Hardware and Software
There's an adage in skill building: There's Software and Hardware. Does this analogy really do the situation justice, or is there more to it? We say the latter.
Level Up
Apr 26, 2018
Home Security Audit
Do you think your home security is up to par? Check out our audit, print it off, and see how your security holds up.
Mobility
Jan 31, 2019
Building an ISG Rig: The Diesel Land Cruiser
The Land Cruiser is one of the ISG family's iconic pieces of equipment. Have you ever wondered about owning a diesel? We tackle the reasons, pros, cons.
Level Up
Apr 26, 2018
Level Up: Backyard Chickens
If you've ever considered backyard chickens, but didn't know where to start, we have some answers for you. Short version? Chickens are easy, fun, and rewarding.
Level Up
Apr 26, 2018
Level Up: Cloud Genera
The sky has a language that tells you its intent if you can read it. In this article, we discuss the meaning behind the clouds, and how to read them.
Level Up
Apr 26, 2018
Level Up: Destructive Entry Overview
In an emergency, you may need to quickly gain access to resources without worrying about breaking stuff. Introducing "destructive entry".
Mobility
Jan 31, 2019
Driving 101: Basic Skills
Part of our game plan is telling people things they don't want to hear, so let's start with this: Statistically, you probably suck at driving.
Level Up
Apr 26, 2018
Level Up: Herb Spiral
The simple construction and utility of the design makes it an excellent addition to your resilience plan that adds flavor and character to your yard.
Level Up
Apr 26, 2018
Level Up: Lock Tower
The lock tower is an easy way to keep your practice material for lock sport in a convenient, simple, and somewhat realistic location.
Level Up
Apr 26, 2018
Level Up: Reading The Sky
Building on Cloud Genera, we discuss some of the folklore behind forecasting weather and signs that signal weather changes. Join us to read the sky.
Level Up
Apr 26, 2018
Lines of Equipment: Everyday Carry Concepts
The topic of EDC as you've never seen it before: without the opinion. We discuss the topic from the ground up, using reasoning and experience.
Tactical
May 14, 2018
Low Light Tactics for the Regular Person
In this article we discuss how light works with our eyes, and how tactics and technique can help us minimize risk in the low light environment as citizens.
Mindset
Apr 25, 2018
Man's Worst Enemy
How do animals vector disease and infestations during emergencies? Learn how man's best friend can turn into your worst enemy during times of crisis.
Technical
Jan 31, 2019
Medical Emergency: Infection
Here we tell the story of Harold Tycksen who fought desperately against the clock to stop an infection that nearly cost him his life and changed his life.
Level Up
Apr 26, 2018
Level Up: Mobility Training
One of the most underrated physical abilities is those which help you move your body through the world. Find out how equipment impacts your performance.
Tactical
May 14, 2018
Move, Shoot, Communicate
Few things are paid more lip service than "move shoot communicate". We lay out the skills you'll need if you want to be able to move, shoot, and communicate.
Mythbusting
Apr 26, 2018
Mythbusting: "Tampons stop bleeding" and other Fairytales
Do you ever get tired of gun culture's endless stream of cliches, anachronisms, and tropes? Yeah. Us too. Gut check the Dunning Kruger's club.
Mythbusting
Apr 26, 2018
Mythbusting: Bug Out Bag and Bugging Out
Bugging out means becoming a refugee. Join us as we break it down Barney style for those who don't understand just how dangerous bugging out is.
Mythbusting
Apr 26, 2018
Mythbusting: Climate Disasters
Climate change is this generations 'Cold War'. Find out why you should stop listening to the politicized hype, and approach the topic with reason.
Mythbusting
Apr 26, 2018
Mythbusting: Enough Guns
In this article, we discuss the myth that you can't have too many guns, how the guns you have are useful only if used with proficiency and maturity.
Level Up
Apr 26, 2018
Mythbusting: Failure Is Bad
To paraphrase Pat McNamarra "training is like photography: you need negatives to develop". We talk about some of our failures and how we turned them around.
Adventure
Apr 25, 2018
Nature: The Beautiful Psychopath
Here we discuss the grim reality: That nature is a murderous, impartial force that kills with impunity. Do you know how to beat her at her own game?
Technical
Jan 31, 2019
Off-Grid Energy: Solar
Do you think having a solar panel in your bug out bag is going to keep you in technology? ...about that... We say it isn't that easy.
Firearm Skills
May 14, 2018
One Handed Shooting
One of the main strengths of the handgun is the ability to use it one handed. Here's the case that you should be spending WAY more time building this skill.
Mindset
Apr 25, 2018
Purpose Makes Us Stronger
Have you ever wondered why we live in a society steeped in drugs, ideation, and suicide? The answer is simple. People lack purpose. Find yours.
Mindset
Apr 25, 2018
Question the Experts
Often as not, expert credentials don't translate to "what can you actually do?" Learn how questioning the experts makes everyone stronger.
