This is an excellent perspective from Jeff Randall and he makes a fine point. I can only speak for myself...but...while I continue to collect interesting survival gear and steel, I spend less time in wild places using it and I continue to get fatter and in worse shape. As of two years ago I spent over 100 days a year in the field for over a decade and did not feel limited by 25$ knives and a bedroll from the second hand store. My more recent obsession for steal and cool bushcraft items has become less about bushcraft and outdoor competence than a collection of really neat "stuff". Perhaps I am living vicariously through myself 10 years ago and this collection of "stuff" is an attempt to remain connected to the skills and life that I/we once had or would like to have. That being said, I will continue to collect steel because I enjoy it and look forward to the next time that I may potentially use it.

I have a great respect for those who still practice bushcraft skills on a regular basis but the reality for me is.... As I got older, sleeping on the cold ground under a pile of sticks and leaves is not as fun as it used to be. Now it is more fun to remember it and dream of it.