PSR ExpertPrimitive Survival Rating
Primitive debris hut of leaves and branches in a woodland clearing

Primitive Shelter

Lean-to

Fast wind-break used worldwide: a sloping roof against a ridge or cliff, often paired with a long fire.

1 min readMedium energyMedium reliability

At a glance

Energy investmentMedium energyFaster than a hut but needs more firewood overnight.
ReliabilityMedium reliability
Time45–90 minutes

Materials

  • Ridge and rafters
  • Boughs or tarp
  • Reflector logs for fire

Steps

  1. 1Orient the open side away from prevailing wind and weather.
  2. 2Lash or prop a ridge; lean rafters; thatch thickly.
  3. 3Build a long fire parallel to the opening with a reflector wall opposite.
  4. 4Raise bedding off damp ground.

Common mistakes

  • Wind shifts into the open face
  • Thin thatch drips on bedding
  • Fire too close—sparks on roof

Region fit

Best in: Temperate forest, Desert, Mountains, Coast & swamp · Poor in: Tropical jungle, Snow & ice

  • Temperate forestGood fit
  • Tropical junglePoor fit
  • DesertGood fit
  • MountainsGood fit
  • Snow & icePoor fit
  • Coast & swampGood fit

Fit keyGood fitPoor fitAvoid

Other methods

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