While guitars may be built with music in mind, sometimes they can offer a whole lot more. Whether acoustic or electric, guitars have strings, and these strings can be put to a number of survival uses. Nylon strings are great for lashing, fishing line, repairs, etc., but steel strings are really where it’s at.

With a stronger core and standard loop at the end, steel strings offer up a durability and useability not commonly found in their nylon counter parts. These versatile lengths of wire can be put to use as snares, saws, fishing lines, repairs, lashing, needles and much more without worry of mechanical failure.

In addition to the survival uses for the strings of a guitar, take a look at the body and see what you can scavenge. From highly reflective pieces for signal mirrors to an emergency fuel source, the guitar is definitely more than just a music maker. So the next time you have to do some down and dirty urban survival or you’re out in the wilds with your guitar, remember to utilize these easily found and highly utilitarian materials should the need arise.