Old Copper Wire

Spotted a coil of thick copper wire tangled around a rusted iron water valve near the ground. Sunlight was hitting the metal dead-on. I crouched low, gripped the cold coil with one fist, and pinned the loose end against the brick with my boot. Used the tip of my center claw to score the tough rubber casing. Sliced clean through the gray grime down to the bright orange core. Shucked off the brittle insulation with two quick flicks. Twisted the raw copper into a rigid, palm-sized hook with a grunt and tested the tension. Won't snap. Slid it into my belt loop. Useful gear.