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Ranking The 10 Best Night Vision Goggles of 2019

Whether you’ll apply them in tactical situations or on night hunts, night vision goggles are an item you don’t want to skimp on. There’s a big difference between “any old” pair that will ultimately prove minimally functional and a quality pair that make you feel like you’re operating with the best visibility possible in your situation.

The Top Night Vision Goggles of 2019 vary in price and functionality. Finding the right pair for you will depend on a number of factors, including your personal preferences. In this article, we’ll highlight ten of the best night vision goggles on the market today. We’ll also provide a comprehensive Buyer’s Guide that gives you a clear framework for choosing night vision goggles that fit your needs and your budget.

1. Solomark Night Vision Monocular

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This night vision monocular is an affordable option for novice hunters looking to experiment with night hunts. Although priced below many of its competitors, it offers functional quality and the right additional features to make it useful in a variety of scenarios, including wildlife observation and cave exploration.

The Solomark Night Vision Monocular comes with multi-coated glass objectives, a high sensitivity sensor, an integrated color LCD-screen, and a three level IR LED illuminator. These features give you the ability to view in the dark, with the brightness you want, at distances up to 328 feet (100 meters). In addition, this night vision monocular boasts the ability to capture photos and videos for post-excursion viewing.

2. ATN NVM14-3 Gen 3 Night Vision Multi-Purpose Monocular

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The ATN NVM14-3 Gen 3 night vision monocular can be hand-held, head-mounted, helmet-mounted, or weapon-mounted. It’s an ideal multi-purpose night vision system for walking, driving, weapon firing, short-range surveillance, map reading, vehicle maintenance, and administering first aid in either moonlight or starlight.

This monocular is equipped with an infrared light emitting source and its optical system provides imagery using an objective lens, image intensifier tube, and an eyepiece. It offers 25-millimeters of eye relief and can be adjusted in multiple directions (vertically and fore-aft) for a customized, comfortable fit. Finally, this monocular features an infrared illumination range of 20 meters and a power life up to 40 hours.

3. Sightmark SM15070 Ghost Hunter

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These night vision goggles are field tested and approved by the North American Hunting Club. It uses a dual-tube system for comfortable viewing, which is easier on the eyes than a single-tube system. It also can be head-mounted for hands-free operation or hand-held for quick deployment when searching for targets.

The Sightmark SM15070 Ghost Hunter comes with a high-powered infrared illuminator and 1x magnification. These components work together to provide a crystal clear image for locating targets at short range in low-ambient light conditions and/or total darkness. These goggles also feature an automatic shut-off feature, which turns the unit off when it senses exposure to bright light and saves you precious battery life.

4. Night Owl Optics NOBG1

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The NOBG1 tactical goggles from Night Owl Optics are a military-style system best used for hands-free operation with a head-mask or helmet. It has a hinged quick-release mount that gives you the ease and convenience of flipping the goggle up out of your field of view or detaching to use as a hand-held binocular when needed.

These tactical night vision goggles provide a non-magnified, 1-to-1 image with a wide field of view. This makes them a great selection for walking or operating a vehicle. They also come with F1.4 lenses that improve depth perception and a light sensor that automatically cuts power to prevent burn out of the intensifier tubes when the goggles are exposed to a potentially damaging light source.

5. Armasight Nyx-7 QSi Gen 2+

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Ideal for hands-free use, this night vision system is engineered around high-grade, Gen2+ image intensifier tubes. It’s also a great option for use in total darkness, as it comes with an infrared light source that illuminates surroundings and helps to provide bright, clear night vision images. These goggles are built with the highest grade optics and simple, reliable electronics.

The Armasight Nyx-7 OSi Gen 2+ night vision goggles are an exceptional choice, especially at their price point. They are waterproof, rugged, light, and compact. They can be used with a universal helmet mount or head mount to provide flexibility on tactical missions or night hunts. These night vision goggles also come with a battery adapter, lens cap, lens tissue, operations manual, and soft carrying case.

6. ATN PVS-7 Gen 3W

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The ATN PVS-7 Gen 3W night vision goggles are standard issue for U.S. Army ground troops and designed to provide exceptionally reliable service in the most unfavorable conditions. It’s a high-performance, durable night vision system that can be trusted across a variety of tactical situations and it is designed with a full U.S. Mil-Spec body.

These night vision goggles come with a fully adjustable strap so that you can comfortably mount them to your head or helmet. They are waterproof and feature an infrared illumination source so that they remain fully functional in total darkness. These goggles also boast a 50-hour battery life and a quick F1.2, 26-millimeter lens system. The goggles come with a lens cap and cleaning tissue, packing box, soft carrying case, demist shield, sacrificial filter, two AA batteries, and a head mount assembly.

7. Yukon – NV

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These lightweight night vision goggles are designed with an ergonomic, rubberized body, which gives them a sleek and modern appearance while maintaining durability. They are designed to help you maintain optimal functionality in low ambient light conditions or total darkness. Their design also allows you to flip the optics up when not in use so that you can easily flip from night vision to your own eyesight.

The Yukon – NV goggles offer about 40 hours of battery life and offer 1x magnification with a 24-millimeter lens diameter. Multicoated optics work to provide clear images and a pulse infrared illuminator helps to provide enough light for these goggles to maintain functionality in total darkness. Finally, these night vision goggles are designed without a lot of frills. They’re light, solid, stable, and comfortable.

8. Superior Tactical PVS-7 Gen 3

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The PVS-7 Gen 3 night vision goggles from Superior Tactical are made to be versatile and durable. They can be hand-held of head/helmet mounted and boast mil-spec compliant housing. They are also lightweight and weather-resistant to maintain usability in less-than-favorable conditions. These goggles are robust, dependable, and, most importantly, they perform when you need them most.

These night vision goggles boast 1x magnification and a 40-degree field of view. They offer about 50 hours of battery life and feature Superior Tactical’s third-generation of intensifier tubes, which provide the best clarity. The goggles have internal indicators that tell you when the battery is running low and when your infrared illumination source is switched on.

9. Pulsar Edge Night Vision Goggles

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In terms of image resolution, it’s hard to beat the Pulsar Edge night vision goggles. Their unique combination of R-contact optics and Gen Super image intensifier tubes work together to provide the highest edge-to-edge resolution performance ever seen in a budget consumer night vision setup. These goggles are an excellent choice for hunters interested in pursuing any game that’s most active at night.

These night vision goggles are lightweight and boast a compact R-contact optical system. They come with a 5-lens eyepiece that increases image sharpness and contrast while minimizing distortion throughout the entire field of view. They also boast a soft rubber eyecup that traps light emission for improved concealment. Finally, these goggles come with the Pulsar Compact Head Mount to provide hands-free night vision viewing.

10. Bushnell Equinox Z Night Vision Monocular

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For those that prefer a monocular, Bushnell’s Equinox Z offers 6x magnification and 50-millimeter objective lens diameter. It’s an incredible night vision tool for those in need of long-range image capability in low ambient light conditions. This monocular also features an adjustable infrared brightness for use in total darkness.

This night vision monocular is also one of the few night vision systems that offer daytime color, which makes image clarity appear as if you’re operating in full daylight. This system offers a built-in illuminator that helps it achieve viewing distances up to 1000 feet (305 meters). It’s also capable of capturing images and video for post-tactical viewing.

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Buyer’s Guide

In night vision goggles, the eyepiece magnifies the image so that the user can move about and locate targets without any active illumination sources (1). This is critical for soldiers and hunters operating at night when stealth is of the utmost importance. While night vision goggles are most commonly used in the military, their functionality extends beyond the duties of those in the armed forces.

Some of the first night vision devices were actually deployed by the German army as early as 1939 (2). In this Buyer’s Guide, we’ll discuss several factors that you should pay attention to when selecting a pair of night vision goggles, including monocular versus binocular, choosing between generations, and essential accessories.

Monocular versus Binocular

Most of us think of binoculars when we hear the term “goggles” or when we think about night vision in general. That is, unless you think of the quad goggles featured in Zero Dark Thirty (3). However, most folks just entering into the night vision market will want to go with a monocular as they get comfortable with night vision.

Besides the fact that monoculars are generally more affordable, their also much more versatile. Monoculars can be used in your hand, on your helmet, or on your firearm. They also allow you to keep one eye free to preserve your natural night vision, which can sometimes be more effective than night vision.

Interestingly, you’ll generally maintain about a 40-degree field of view with either a monocular or binocular, so there’s really no difference there. The main con of a monocular is that it can take new users some time to get used to keeping both eyes open. This is the preferred method of using a monocular for the best experience and widest field of view.

Night vision goggles (or binoculars) provide the most benefit navigating over shorter durations or for stationary observation activities. They tend to give the user better depth perception than a monocular but do tend to weigh more. They also have the disadvantage of being less versatile, as they really excel in specific navigation and observation applications.

Choosing Between Generations

As companies seek to improve their night vision goggles, they release new generations with additional features and (hopefully) improved optics. There are generally four generations of night vision goggles you’ll have to sort through.

The first generation dates all the way back to the Vietnam era (4). Most of the night vision systems from these days are massive and outdated today. While you’ll still find a handful on the market, most have become collector’s items and have very little practical usage nowadays.

The second generation of night vision dates back to the 1980s. They utilize what was, at the time, a vastly improved detection plate. These models improved resolution by an astounding 150 percent over their first generation counterparts. Night vision systems with this technology are entirely usable and the more affordable options you see on the market today utilize Generation 2 technology.

The third generation of night vision uses technology developed in the 1990s. The major change was using a different type of gas in the image intensifier tubes. This change achieved another 30 percent improvement in image resolution over Generation 2. Many of the best night vision goggles on the market today utilize this type of technology.

The fourth generation of night vision is still in relative infancy. Gen 4 technology only offers a relatively modest 10 percent improvement over Generation 3. The major improvement is in reducing the halo that appears around bright objects in most night vision goggles. The downside is that this technology makes Gen 4 night vision systems quite expensive.

Image Clarity

Image clarity in night vision goggles is typically measured in line pairs per millimeter. Most folks talk about night vision clarity in terms of how well the goggles allow the user to distinguish between objects that are close together. In general, a higher resolution means better clarity, but it’s good to note that, in some models, the resolution at the center of the image will differ from the resolution at the image’s edges. This is especially true for Generation 1 night vision systems.

Recognition Range

Recognition range refers to the distance at which you’ll be able to make out (and ultimately target) objects when using night vision goggles. Most of the best Generation 3 night vision goggles achieve recognition range right around 300 yards. This is considerably less than the best riflescopes on the market, which have ranges upwards of 1,000 yards. With night vision goggles, the range is also dependent on the amount of ambient light available. In total darkness, your range will be much less than when operating during a full moon, for example.

Essential Accessories 

Many night vision systems come with a variety of accessories meant to enhance their performance. However, if you purchase a monocular or set of binoculars “a la carté,” you’ll likely need to grab a few other items to make your night vision setup fully functional. These essential accessories include, but aren’t limited to, helmets, illuminators, IR lasers, and counterbalance.

Helmets

Many functional systems include a head mount strap. But this strap is often designed to fit snugly over a helmet, as opposed to your naked head. There are two basic types of helmets to choose from if you’re going to be using your night vision system in tactical scenarios. They are ballistic helmets (5) and bump helmets (6). The exact helmet that’ll be best for you will depend on how you’ll use it and your personal preference, but it’s important to know that a helmet is an essential accessory if you plan to use your night vision system in a hands-free manner.

Illuminators

Fortunately, many of the best night vision goggles feature built-in illuminators. However, that’s not always the case. If you purchase a system without an illuminator, you’ll need to buy one unless you don’t plan on using your goggles in total darkness. Most quality night vision goggles will retain functionality in low ambient light conditions, even without an illuminator. However, when you try to use them in total darkness, you’ll need an infrared illuminator for clear, useful imaging.

Many built-in illuminators are only useful over a relatively short distance. While this can work for walking and short-range observation when stationary, you’ll need more illumination when driving or viewing targets at a distance. There are a variety of standalone illuminators (7) that you can use to improve the performance of your night vision goggles. You’ll just have to make sure the one you buy is compatible with your goggles.

Counterbalance

This is really important for those seeking night vision goggles for hands-free use. As you can imagine after viewing some of the setups above, these goggles can place a lot of weight in front of your helmet. Without a proper counterbalance, your neck is going to be screaming at you in just a few hours (or less!).

Placing weights on the back of your helmet will effectively counterbalance the weight of your night vision goggles so that you’re not using neck strength alone just to keep your head up. Depending on the battery life of your goggles, you might even think of using an extra battery (or two) as a counterbalance.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re unfamiliar with night vision goggles, there can be a lot of technical terms to wrap your head around. In this section, we’ll answer some of the more common questions about night vision so that you have a better understanding as you continue your search.

How does night vision work?

To put it as simply as possible, night vision goggles gather what little light is available (usually starlight, moonlight, or infrared light) into the objective lens. This light enters a photocathode tube that’s filled with gallium arsenide. Inside the tube, the light energy (‘photons’) is converted into electrical energy (‘electrons’). These electrons then pass through a microchannel detection plate that essentially ‘amplifies’ that electrical energy. This increased energy (more electrons) then passes through a phosphor screen that converts the electrons back into photons, or ‘visible light’. This visible light is what you see when you look through the eyepiece and the amplification typically produces a bright greenish hue that we usually associate with night vision.

What is white phosphor?

Most night vision goggles produce the green imagery that many of us are familiar with. This is because of the color of phosphor on the tube. White phosphor is Gen 3 technology and gives the viewer more defined shadows. As you might imagine, however, goggles with this tech tend to cost more.

What is an IR illuminator?

‘IR’ stands for infrared. An IR illuminator is a device designed to project infrared light in front of your night vision goggles. Infrared light is virtually invisible to the naked eye but highly visible when using night vision equipment. Most provide illumination over a relatively short distance, but even the most technologically advanced night vision goggles perform better with a built-in IR illuminator. Any time you’re dealing with total darkness, an infrared light source is essential.

How does the objective lens diameter affect the image?

The diameter of an objective lens impacts the amount of light that’s allowed in and (eventually) transmitted to your eye. While there’s a tendency to think bigger is always better, the other design elements of a specific pair of night vision goggles also play a role in image quality. When it comes to choosing night vision goggles, it’s important to know that a larger lens diameter means more opportunity for your goggles to capture ambient light. But factors such as glass quality, magnification, and IR illumination will also dictate image quality.

Summary

Why let a lack of light stop you from hunting that elusive nocturnal game your friends have been talking about? With night vision, you can safely operate at night and minimize time spent fumbling about in the dark so that you come home with the prize you’re looking for. We hope you’ve enjoyed this review of the best night vision goggles and buyer’s guide. We wish you the best of luck in your search and upcoming adventures!

Via https://bestsurvival.org/best-night-vision-goggles/

source http://bestsurvivalus.weebly.com/blog/ranking-the-10-best-night-vision-goggles-of-2019

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Ranking The 10 Best Air Rifles of 2019

Gone are the days when air rifles are consistently inferior to traditional firearms. Modern technological advances have turned air rifles into useful tools for hunting small game. The best air rifles on the market today are incredibly accurate and easy to handle. They also have the benefit of needing less expensive ammunition and that ammunition doesn’t go bad like primers, powders, or cases will.

In this article, we’re going to rank the Top Ten Air Rifles so that you can find a safe gun for hunting birds, squirrels, rodents, and other small game. Before you move on to purchasing your own air rifle, be sure to read through our comprehensive Buyer’s Guide and Frequently Asked Questions sections to learn as much as possible about air rifles and how to make the right purchase for your needs.

1. Gamo Big Cat 1400 .177-Caliber Air Rifle

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The newest addition to the Big Cat family is the most powerful Big Cat every made. It boasts Gamo’s new Smooth Action Trigger, which maximizes pinpoint accuracy. It also comes with an all-weather synthetic stock that offers rubberized grips and a Shock Wave Absorber that reduces recoil shock by up to 74 percent.

The Gamo Big Cat 1400 achieves 1400 feet per second shot velocities with PBA Platinum ammunition (2). This single shot air rifle boasts a 33-millimeter Cylinder power plant and a break barrel single cocking system. It features a manual trigger safety, 4×32 scope with rings, and twin cheek pads for comfortable, ambidextrous shooting.

2. Benjamin Marauder Synthetic Stock .22-Caliber Pellet Air Rifle

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This air rifle is designed for the hunter that wants a lightweight, adaptable firearm. Its new synthetic stock makes it weigh in lighter, but also maintains optimal balance for field carry. It also comes with an ambidextrous raised comb so that it can adapt to firing from either shoulder as circumstances and shooters dictate.

The Benjamin Marauder boasts a choked and internally shrouded barrel that guarantees both precision and ultra-quiet operation. It’s arguably the most accurate and quietest rifle in its class and it features a two-stage-adjustable, match-grade trigger system that functions to make every shot smooth and steady. Its 8-round magazine also allows for fast follow-up shots.

3. Remington Tyrant XGP .177

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The Remington Tyrant XGP .177 is perfect for small game hunters that need precision accuracy. This break barrel air rifle also offers an ambidextrous synthetic stock, but this one is outfit with a Monte Carlo cheek piece and a comfortable rubberized recoil pad to reduce wear and tear on your cheek and shoulder.

This air rifle comes with a 4×32 scope to help you aim more quickly and fire off more accurate shots. It’s a single shot rifle with a two-stage trigger and a fixed muzzle-suppressing device. With .177-caliber lead pellets, this air rifle is capable of shooting at 1000 feet per second (fps). It also weighs just 6.6 pounds and features a barrel length of 16.5 inches.

4. RWS Model 34 .22-Caliber Pellet Air Rifle

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This .22-caliber air rifle can top out above the 800 fps mark. It’s designed for the hunter that wants a rifle that can deliver on performance without offering too many features that just end up getting in the way. It offers polished blued metalwork, full-sized hardwood stock with an ambidextrous design, and a two-stage adjustable trigger system.

The RWS Model 34 is also a great choice for hunters looking for a magnum air rifle that won’t break the bank. Tis air rifle weighs in at just 7.5 pounds and offers a barrel length of 19 inches. It comes with a 4×32 scope to help ensure shot accuracy. Recommended pellets for this air rifle include RWS’ Meisterkugeln, Super Point, Super H-Point, and Superdome (1).

5. Benjamin Trail NP XL 1100 Break Barrel .22-Caliber Air Rifle

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If you’re searching for an air rifle that’s fast, quiet, and easy to use, give this one from Benjamin Trail a good look. It boasts the Nitro Piston powered break barrel, which produces 70% less noise than comparable spring-powered air rifles. It also offers less recoil and a smooth cocking mechanism that makes a successful day of hunting pain-free.

The Benjamin Trail NP XL 1100 includes a 3-9x40mm CenterPoint precision scope, which features an adjustable objective and range-estimating reticle. It also comes with a bull barrel, picatinny mounting rail system, installed sling mounts, and a ventilated rubber recoil pad. With 24 feet pounds of muzzle energy and shot velocities up to 1500 fps, this rifle means game over for small game.

6. Crosman M4-177 Pneumatic Pump .177-Caliber Air Rifle

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The Crosman M4-177 is a perfect firearm for anyone that wants the look and feel of an M4, but with more ammunition flexibility. This air rifle can shoot BBs or pellets and its multi-pump design means you can pump it up to ten times to achieve higher shot velocities. It also allows you to pump less if you’re going for easy, all-day shooting.

This air rifle is pump action, so it doesn’t require a battery or carbon dioxide for functionality. It boasts a 350 round BB reservoir and also comes with a pellet magazine. This rifle features an aperture rear sight that’s adjustable for windage and a post front sight that’s adjustable for elevation. Both sights are removable and also boasts an adjustable scoping stock, sling loops, and a manual safety.

7. Ruger Targis Hunter Max .22

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Perfect for shooting small game in your backyard or out in the field, this air rifle offers a TNT gas piston power plant and Nucleus rail system. The power plant and rail system work together to provide an excellent shooting experience designed to satisfy new air rifle hunters and experienced handlers equally.

The Ruger Targis Hunter Max .22 boasts SilenceAir technology and an ambidextrous automatic safety for versatile shooting. It also offers a rifled barrel and rubber recoil pad. This rifle comes with a 3-9×32 AO airgun specific scope that’s easy to mount and get on target. If you prefer open sights, it also has fiber optic sights ready to go.

8. Hatsan Model 95 Combo Rifle

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This air rifle is designed for the hunter that prioritizes the look of a rifle just as much as its performance. This rifle’s ambidextrous Turkish walnut stock gives is a beautiful, authentic feel that’s sure to make a good first impression. But it also reinforces that impression by delivering a maximum shot velocity of 1000 fps.

The Hatsan Model 95 Combo rifle is a single-shot, break barrel rifle that relies on a spring-powered piston. It boasts a rifled steel barrel and a Quattro two-stage match trigger that’s adjustable for trigger-pull weight, first stage, second stage, and length of travel. It also features a fixed TruGlo fiber optic front sight and fully adjustable TruGlo fiber optic rear sight.

9. Crosman Rogue SBD .177-Caliber Air Rifle

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The Crosman Rogue SBD air rifle is designed for small game hunters that want to stay as quiet and stealthy as possible. Its’ new silencing barrel device (SBD) makes it capable of dispatching paper targets and small game three times quieter than other break barrels in its class. It also offers smoother cocking, no spring torque, smoother shooting, and no spring fatigue even if left cocked for hours.

This air rifle boasts a Nitro 2 gas piston that functions 15 percent faster than standard gas pistons. It also comes with an all-weather synthetic stock, front and rear sights, and a rifled steel barrel. It features an adjustable, two-stage, clean break trigger and requires less cocking force than similar models. Finally, this air rifle functions perfectly in cold weather and lasts longer than rifles that rely on a metal spring to deliver the action.

10. Air Arms S200 FT Air Rifle

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 Those looking for a low-cost introduction to PCP shooting (3) should consider the Air Arms S200 FT air rifle because of its relatively small size. Despite that size, this gun delivers well when hunting small game at short and medium distances. It includes a quick-release connector for the air reservoir and you’ll be able to shoot between 50 and 60 times on a single air charger.

This air rifle boasts a maximum shot velocity of 800 fps and a max fill pressure of 2,700 pounds per square inch (PSI). It offers a rifled barrel style and relies on a pre-charged pneumatic mechanism to deliver the action. This rifle features an 11-millimeter dovetail rail, a 19.09-inch barrel length, and weighs in at 6.17 pounds.

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Buyer’s Guide

So now that you’ve seen the top ten air rifles on the market today, it’s time to figure out how to narrow down your options a bit further. This Buyer’s Guide will focus on several characteristics of air rifles that you should be familiar with before settling on one.

Power Plant

The first major characteristic that categorically separates air rifles from one another is the power plant. This is the mechanism responsible for the rifle’s operation. There are four major types of power plants that we’ll cover here: spring piston, carbon dioxide, pneumatic, and pre-charged pneumatic.

Spring Piston

The spring piston is the most common method of operation for high-powered air rifles. The operation is guaranteed through a spring system that also utilizes an air piston to propel pellets or BBs. This method of operation requires that the user manually retract the spring using some form of leverage.

For your money, air rifles powered by a spring piston system are usually the most accurate and affordable choice. They rely on simple and reliable technology so they are also less likely to jam or malfunction. Their only limitations come in the forms of the caliber of ammunition they are compatible with and the fact that they’re really useful for small game only.

Carbon Dioxide

Air rifles that rely on carbon dioxide use pre-filled cartridges that usually contain 12 grams of compressed air in a metallic cylinder. This cylinder is attached to the rifle and is the only power source for semi-automatic air rifles. As far as replacing empty cartridges goes, they are usually very easy to find and affordable to acquire (4).

Air rifles that utilize carbon dioxide cartridges don’t require regular pumping action, which makes operation simpler. However, they do tend to suffer from inconsistencies related to how outside temperatures can decrease the pressure inside the cartridges. These inconsistencies sometimes compromise the rifle’s velocity and accuracy. For this reason, rifles that rely on CO2 are best used for plinking and recreational shooting.

Pneumatic

Pneumatic air rifles also rely on compressed air to propel pellets or BBs, but they rely on pump action to create that pressurized air. There are several different types of pneumatic air rifles, including single-stroke and multi-pump.

Single-stroke air rifles function when the user consistently pumps the rifle before every shot. This system guarantees greater consistency in terms of accuracy, which makes rifles that use it a great choice for target shooting. However, the extra movement, noise, and time that they require make them a less suitable choice for hunting.

Multi-pump air rifles are a favorite of those looking for convenience above all else. These rifles feature an air reservoir that utilizes a built-in air pump. When you need to fill the reservoir with compressed air, you can pump it multiple times to pressurize for multiple shots.

Pre-Charged Pneumatic

Pre-charged pneumatic air rifles are also sometimes simply referred to as “PCP” rifles. They still rely on a controlled amount of compressed air, but an air compressor or hand pump pre-charges their reservoirs in these rifles. Depending on the caliber of ammunition you’re using, you’ll be able to shoot these rifles from ten to a few dozen times on a single charge.

Air rifles that use this method of operation can be very powerful. Some are capable of firing large ammunition and taking down medium game. The major downside of pre-charged pneumatic air rifles is their price. But they also require the additional investment into what can be an expensive air filling system.

Mechanism

While most of the best air rifles on the market rely on a break barrel mechanism, there are several other types that you should be aware of. These types include under lever, side lever, and semi-automatic.

Break Barrel

Break barrel air rifles feature a barrel that hinges downward. When it does so, this cocks the spring and opens the barrel. Once it’s open, this is when you load a pellet into the barrel. Rifles with this mechanism are simple to use and are often incredible lightweight. Their simplicity also makes them much more reliable. Break barrel rifles are also very easy to deconstruct and upgrade. If you do purchase a break barrel air rifle, iron sights and usually the most compatible optics option in terms of maintaining accuracy.

Under Lever

Under lever air rifles have the cocking lever directly underneath the barrel. When operating, you’ll grab the lever and pull toward the butt of the rifle to cock the spring and open the breech for loading. Air rifles that use this mechanism don’t offer any torque when firing the weapon because of this lever design. This design is also ambidextrous, which makes this type of air rifle highly adaptable.

Side Lever

Air rifles with a side lever mechanism are operated by grabbing a lever that’s mounted on the side and pulling it backward (towards the rear of the rifle). This action cocks the piston and opens the breech for you to load the pellet. Although similar to under lever rifles, these tend to be more durable and less sensitive to rough handling. That said, they aren’t ambidextrous so they can be difficult for left-handed shooters.

Semi-Automatic

Semi-automatic air rifles don’t require any manual cocking after the first round. Ammunition is fed from a magazine and fires one round per pull of the trigger. Referring to the power plants we went over above, most semi-automatic air rifles rely on either a carbon dioxide or PCP power plant.

Scopes and Sights

If you’re going to be using your air rifle for any medium distance shooting, you’ll probably want to look into the scope and/or sight options to improve your accuracy. If you’ll mainly be doing backyard shooting, you might not need a scope or sight. That said, let’s discuss scopes, scope mounts, and sights in a bit more detail.

If you want to add a scope to your air rifle, the first thing to consider is the exact type of scope your preferred rifle is compatible with. Certain rifles only accept limited mounts and some can’t accept mounts at all. When it comes to scopes with air rifles, it’s vital that the scope is rated for use with air rifles. If not, they usually won’t last long because of the way that many air rifles produce reverse recoil.

When deciding on the proper scope mount for your air rifle, the tube millimeter measurement is the one to pay attention to. This measurement will tell you if a certain scope mount will fit. Tubes and optics come in a variety of sizes, so making sure they are compatible is critical.

Lastly, some air rifles actually function better with iron sights than a scope. If you mainly intend to use your air rifle for short range shooting, iron sights are usually going to be sufficient. But if you want to maximize accuracy for medium or long range shooting, peep or aperture sights are the ticket.

Frequently Asked Questions

Air rifle use and operation takes some time to learn, especially for new shooters. In this section, we’ll answer some of the most common concerns about air rifles so that you feel confident moving forward with your buying process, as well as the use and maintenance of an air rifle.

Are fixed barrel rifles more accurate than break barrel rifles?

The break barrel action means that the rifle’s barrel moves slightly with each shot. This means it isn’t always in the exact same place, which can indeed affect accuracy. However, most of the modern break barrels are so well manufactured that the average shooter won’t recognize the accuracy difference between a break barrel and a fixed barrel. For experienced shooters, however, a fixed barrel is the way to go.

Which caliber is best?

This largely depends on the type of shooting you prefer. Target shooters and plinkers tend to opt for .177 caliber. If you’ll mainly be using your air rifle for pest control or hunting small game, then you’ll probably want .20 or .22 caliber. And those that wish to seek medium game with an air rifle, there are now models capable of firing .25 caliber and 9-millimeter ammunition.

How do I make sure I get the most accurate shot possible with an air rifle?

There are potentially many answers to this question. For starters, accuracy depends on your shooting technique and how you hold the rifle. The only way to improve in these areas is with practice. But as far as the rifle itself, there are also several other factors that can cause an inaccurate shot. These include incorrect pellet type, a dirty barrel, loose sights or scope, loose barrel pivot bolt, and loose stock screws.

Why do air rifles require different scopes that firearm rifles?

Unlike most firearm rifles, air rifles that rely on a spring piston mechanism generate heavy recoil and vibration in both the forward and rearward directions. Because of this, scopes manufactured for air rifles are made to withstand the heavy bi-directional recoil and vibration. Air rifle scopes also typically come with parallax adjustment that allows closer focus. Most will focus down to 10 yards because air rifles are usually used for short and medium range shooting.

Summary

If you’re looking for a non-toy grade gun that’s easy to handle and great for ridding your yard of those small pests, an air rifle is a great choice. We hope that you enjoyed this review of the best air rifles of 2019 and we wish you the best of luck selecting the right air rifle for you!

Via https://bestsurvival.org/best-air-rifle/

source http://bestsurvivalus.weebly.com/blog/ranking-the-10-best-air-rifles-of-2019

[rayanrooke]

Mira Safety CM-6M Gas Mask Review

One of the first instances of chemical warfare in recorded history dates back to April 22, 1915. On this date, German soldiers attacked their French counterparts with chlorine gas at the Second Battle of Ypres (1). As a result, the development of military gas masks began shortly thereafter. But gas masks were already being used to provide breathable air to firemen, underwater divers, and miners, as well as to meet other needs that were unrelated to warfare.

Although military, security, and law enforcement personnel often carry a gas mask as part of their equipment arsenal, there are many civilian uses for them as well. In this article, we’re going to review one of the best gas masks on the market today, the Mira Safety CM-6M.

Mira Safety CM-6M Overview

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If you’re really interested in buying a gas mask, there are A LOT of reasons why you shouldn’t go cheap. But the most important one is that some cheap gas masks won’t work when you need them most. For an item that can eventually be as critical to your health as the simple act of breathing every day, a cheap gas mask isn’t much better than no gas mask at all.

The Mira Safety CM-6M gas mask meets the European standard for respirators (EN 136:1998 CL3) and can be used in a variety of applications including, but not limited to, industry, agriculture, police and rescue squads, civil defense, fire departments, welding, construction, painting, and military special forces.

It is a full-face respirator that functions in combination with a suitable gas filter or breathing apparatus. It comes in a universal size and protects the user against carbon, biological, radioactive, and nuclear (CBRN) agents that can appear in the form of gas, vapor, aerosol, or radioactive dust-based toxins.

CM-6M Product Specifications

The facepiece of the CM-6M is made of bromine-butyl rubber and the visor is fully polycarbonate material. The mask boasts a minimum general field of vision of 70% of normal and a minimum binocular field of vision of 80 percent of normal. It also boasts a 95% success rate when it comes to maintaining the intelligibility of the wearer’s speech, which is critical for teams that need to communicate effectively on the fly.

This Mira Safety gas mask features a round filter connection thread that measures 40-millimeters by 0.143 inches. When it comes to breathing resistance at a standard airflow of 30 liters per minute, the CM-6M boasts a maximum inhalation resistance of 30 Pa (Pascal) and maximum exhalation resistance of 60 Pa (2).

CM-6M Key Features

One of the most impressive features of this gas mask is that it boasts a total shelf life of 20 years. Although you’ll have to replace the actual filter cartridges more frequently, this gas mask is designed to last. It fits standard 40-millimeter filter cartridges, which is great because they’re one of the more available cartridge types out there.

The CM-6M’s facepiece meets CBRN protection standards and is made with a full-face panoramic design. Its large visor enables a wide-angle view and minimizes field of vision loss, which is critical in all tactical situations. This gas mask comes compatible with most law enforcement or military helmets and also includes a pre-installed hydration system and canteen. If you don’t want to use the included canteen, it’s also compatible with CamelBak water bladders that feature a Type A or Type M adapter.

Mira Safety didn’t stop there though. They put this gas mask through rigorous testing to make sure it was resistant to mustard gas penetration for nearly 30 hours. And they installed a hypoallergenic inner mask made of silicone, which prevents fogging under hard-use conditions. Again, this is a feature that proves indispensable when you’re in the heat of the moment (literally!) and losing an ounce of visibility can mean the difference between the right decision and a potentially disastrous one.

Finally, perhaps the best metric for the efficacy of this Mira Safety gas mask is its widespread use by government entities around the world. In addition to conforming to European quality and sustainability standards (which is why it’s marked with the formal CE symbol) (3), this gas mask is used by Ministries of the Interior or Defense in the Czech Republic, Turkey, South Africa, Romania, Lithuania, and a host of other nations. It’s also used widely for industrial purposes in Switzerland, Germany, Czech Republic, Slovak Republic, and Poland. 

CM-6M Storage Recommendations

If you decide to purchase the Mira Safety CM-6M gas mask, it’s important to know how to store it properly. Improper storage of any gas mask will compromise its efficacy so that it doesn’t function as intended when you finally need it. For starters, all CM-6M masks should be stored in a cool, dark, dust-free environment.

You should be careful to keep your gas mask from being exposed to any sudden temperature changes and make sure your storage room is well ventilated. The ideal temperature for storing this gas mask ranges from 10 degrees to 25 degrees Celsius (50 to 77 degrees Fahrenheit) and you should shoot to maintain a relative humidity near 65% wherever the gas mask is stored.

Additionally, your gas mask should not be exposed to any radiant heat or sunshine when in storage and it should be stored separately from any fuels, solvents, lubricants, chemicals, and other inflammable substances on your property. You’ll also want to keep it a reasonable distance away from any electric machines or appliances that produce electric sparks or discharges during their operation (this is known as ozone creation) (4). Finally, you should be mindful to store your gas mask in a way that doesn’t cause any deformations of the rubber parts of the facepiece and internal mask.

Summary

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The Mira Safety CM-6M is a top rated gas mask on the market today. We hope you’ve enjoyed this thorough review of the CM-6M and we look forward to hearing about your experience with it. Best of luck staying prepared and staying safe!

Via https://bestsurvival.org/mira-safety-cm-6m-gas-mask-review/

source http://bestsurvivalus.weebly.com/blog/mira-safety-cm-6m-gas-mask-review

[rayanrooke]

Ranking The 10 Best Camping Hammocks of 2019

A lightweight camping hammock is a must-have item for ultralight backpackers and weekend adventurers. Unlike carrying a tent, a hammock gives you increased ability to camp almost anywhere, as long as you have a couple of sturdy trees to tie off. Set up and tear down are also much simpler with a hammock than with most tents.

In this article, we’ve compiled a list of the Top Ten Camping Hammocks of 2019. With so many great outfitters providing hammocks today, we recognize that choice overload is a real possibility. That’s why we’ve also included a comprehensive Buyer’s Guide and a Frequently Asked Questions section to give you the information you’ll need to select the right hammock for your intended uses.

But first, let’s take a look at the hammocks themselves:

1. Kammok Roo Double

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The Kammok Roo Double has been redesigned for 2019. The latest version is lighter, stronger, softer, and more breathable than previous models. For those that need the flexibility to go wherever adventure beckons at a moment’s notice, this camping hammock sets the standard for elevated camping.

The material of this hammock is 40-denier Gravitas fabric. When it comes to strength to weight ratio, this fabric can’t me matched. You’ll be able to hang safely in the Roo Double with up to 500 pounds using Kammok’s climbing grade suspension system. As for weight, the 2019 version is 20% lighter than last year’s model and weighs a total of just 18 ounces.

2. Wise Owl Outfitters SingleOwl Hammock

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 Like most hammocks, the Wise Owl SingleOwl is designed to help you fall asleep faster and sleep more comfortably through the night. It’s a great hammock choice for anyone who’s tired of sleeping on rocks and roots in their tent. This hammock uses 210T (1) parachute nylon that’s capable of supporting a maximum weight load of 400 pounds.

The Wise Owl SingleOwl is designed with triple interlocking stitching to give the seams superior strength. When unpacked, the hammock measures 9 feet long by 4.5 feet wide. When packed, it’ll fit in a 5” x 5” space in your pack. Overall, the SingleOwl weighs just 16 ounces and comes in a drawstring stuff sack. Additional items include two 8-foot nautical grade nylon ropes and two steel carabiners for hanging.

3. Lost Valley Camping Hammock

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Made by Oak Creek Outdoor Supply, this camping hammock is a great choice for travelers, hikers, campers, or those that simply want to hang it in the jungle and marvel at the diversity of species in the trees overhead. It’s made with ultra-strong, tear-resistant parachute nylon with reinforced stitching and knotting.

In total, the Lost Valley camping hammock can support weights up to 350 pounds. With a single drawstring bag, the hammock and its accessories pack up to be portable and lightweight. The whole bundle, which includes a hammock, rain fly, bug net, two tree straps, two steel carabiners, two stakes, and two guy lines, weight less than four pounds and can be set up in less than three minutes!

4. ENO DoubleNest

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 With enough space for two people to sit or lie down comfortably, the ENO DoubleNest is the ‘Palace in the Sky’ of camping hammocks. It boasts so much space that it can sometimes feel awkward to sleep solo in it, but it can still be easily packed into its attached compression sack to be conveniently stored in your pack.

The ENO DoubleNest sets up in seconds. It includes heavy duty triple stitched seams and is made of soft, breathable, and fast-drying material. The hammock’s 70-denier high tenacity nylon taffeta (2) can support weights up to 400 pounds. The hammock itself weighs just 19 ounces and offers of dimensions of 9’4” long by 6’2” wide. At either end, the hammock features aluminum wiregate carabiners for secure attachment to tree straps.

5. Winner Outfitters Double Camping Hammock

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The Winner Outfitters Double Camping Hammock is another great selection for hikers and backpackers, but it’s also a great option for hanging in your backyard or on a day trip to the beach. The hammock material is durable 210T nylon that can support weights up to 500 pounds. But it’s also soft and breathable to keep you comfortable and cool for your lie.

The hammock’s material is also resistant to fading, even when exposed to sun and rain. This camping hammock offers total dimensions of 118” long and 78” wide. It weighs just 2.5 pounds when packed up and comes with polyester straps and carbon steel carabiners. These carabiners feature an E-coating surface that makes them smoother and more resistant to scratches.

6. Hummingbird Hammocks Ultralight Single Plus

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When you’re searching for a durable and lightweight hammock, it’s hard to overlook the Ultralight Single Plus from Hummingbird Hammocks. This hammock is actually built to FAA parachute rigging standards (3) and weighs just 7.6 ounces when packed up. It’s also certified open hardware (4), which means it meets a uniform and well-defined standard for open-source compliance.

The Ultralight Single Plus is made of PIA-C-44378 T4 Certified reserve parachute fabric, nylon plastic, 1500-pound Spectra (5) cord, and military-spec bonded nylon thread. It can support weights up to 350 pounds and boasts unpacked dimensions of 9’8” long by 5’3” wide. The entire bundle includes the hammock, attached stuff sack, and attached button link carabiners.

7. Grand Trunk Skeeter Beeter Pro Mosquito Hammock

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 For those that live in heavy mosquito country, the Grand Trunk Skeeter Beeter Pro is an excellent hammock choice. There’s nothing worse than climbing into your hammock and being tormented by those little flying nuisances. But with the Skeeter Beeter Pro, the attached bug net will keep you bite-free and allow you to get a solid night’s rest.

This camping hammock is made of 210T parachute nylon with triple-lock stitched seams and No-see-em, nylon mosquito netting. It boasts a double-sided zipper for easy entry and exit and the material is soft, breathable, and fast-drying in case it gets wet. The whole hammock bundle features two nautical grade carabiners, a starter rope kit, suspension cord, and stuff-sack for stress-free travel.

8. Therm-a-Rest Slacker Single Hammock

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If you’re looking to slack off in style, it’s hard to beat the Therm-a-Rest Slacker Single Hammock. This hammock’s soft polyester fabric feels great on your skin and provides a subtle stretch that virtually eliminates all pressure points in the nylon. The attached stuff pocket is a great place to keep a book, phone, or water bottle as you relax under your favorite tree.

This camping hammock is made of 100% ripstop polyester, which dries much faster than nylon. Its one-piece design adds another layer of comfort while boosting the hammock’s overall durability. It can support weights up to 400 pounds and features ultralight aluminum carabiners for easy hanging. In total, the hammock weighs just 18 ounces and packs up to fit in a 7” x 10” space.

9. Hennessy Hammock Expedition Zip Hammock

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The Hennessy Hammock is known to some as “the hammock that started the hammock camping revolution.” With its patented asymmetrical design and structural ridgeline, it’s truly made for comfort, regardless of the spacing between trees. It’s an excellent all-purpose hammock for backpacking, family camping, expeditions, kayaking, and much more.

This camping hammock is made of 70-denier high-density nylon taffeta that can support weights up to 250 pounds. The rain fly is made of 70-denier polyurethane-coated ripstop polyester and the bug net is made of 30-denier polyester No-See-Um netting. The hammock offers dimensions of 120” by 59” and a packed weight of two pounds, 12 ounces.

10. ENO Sub6 Hammock

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The Sub6 is Eno’s lightest hammock. It is designed to embody the spirit of ultralight backcountry camping and boasts an impressive 5.8-ounce body. Although it is one of the lightest hammocks on the market, the Sub6 still retains impressive strength and security. It has the ability to support weights up to 300 pounds.

This camping hammock is crafted from lightweight 30-denier ripstop nylon and Dyneema® fiber (6) that is stronger than steel. It also features new aluminum toggles and combines with the Helios Suspension System to offer the same ease of set up you’ll find with a traditional hammock. When packed up though, the Sub6 fits well into small spaces so that you can go light and move fast.

—

Buyer’s Guide

The use of hammocks dates back more than 1,000 years and their origin can be traced to the Mayans of Central America. The hammocks of those days were most likely woven from bark or plant fibers, but their practicality quickly made them widely used throughout Central and South America, as well as in Mexico.

Today’s hammocks are arguably more practical and easy to transport than ever. With advancements in materials and fibers, manufacturers are able to make hammocks that are both extremely durable and exceptionally light. In order to help you sort through the many great options out there, this Buyer’s Guide will focus on several key factors to consider when buying a new camping hammock.

Hammock Size

The first thing you’ll want to think about is whether you want a hammock to fit just one person or that gives you the ability to sleep two. If you’re a larger individual with broad shoulders, for example, you’ll probably want a “double” hammock even if you’ll be the only one sleeping in it. When you hang your hammock, the last thing you want is for it to be pinching your shoulders toward each other when you climb in.

For this reason, it helps to go slightly larger when it comes to comfort. The caveat is that you’ll add a little more weight, but when it comes to getting a good night’s rest, the added weight is usually worth it. Because the most comfortable way to sleep in a hammock is actually diagonally, some extra width will help you get cozy in your new hammock.

When it comes to length, most of the hammocks on the market today are in the 9-10 foot range. This is designed to leave plenty of extra space at the head and feet of even the tallest individuals. Keep in mind, however, going with a longer hammock means you’ll need more space between anchor points in order to achieve a favorable hang.

Overall Weight 

The main reason you want to consider overall weight is for carrying purposes. Today’s hammocks are extremely useful for ultralight backpacking and camping. In these scenarios, most ultralight hikers and backpackers measure their pack weight down to the tenth of an ounce. But when you’re talking about covering 30 or more miles per day, for many days in a row, those extra ounces can add up to extra wear and tear on your body.

Fortunately, most hammock manufacturers know that their ideal audience wants their hammock to be light. Because of this, you can find the overall weight of a hammock easily advertised before making a purchase. On the other hand, those of you that prioritize protection from the elements overall weight reduction will be less concerned with overall weight and more tuned into the rain fly and bug net quality of a given hammock.

Hammock Straps

Because the most important part of enjoying a night in a hammock is how you hang it, it’s important to pay attention to the type of straps you’re getting (or will need to purchase) with a given hammock. Straps will make or break (quite literally!) your hammock experience, so you want to spend some time to make sure you’re getting quality.

There are a variety of ropes and straps out there to help you hang your hammock. Ideally, you want to find straps somewhere between 6 and 10 feet long. Nylon tubing is a great material for hammock straps, and you want to look for straps that can support upwards of twice your body weight, just to be safe.

Some hammocks that are frequently used by rock climbers need steel screws or mounts that attach to the rock face before you can hang the hammock in place. But for those of you that plan to hang your hammock from trees, the best straps wrap around the outside of the tree without any insertion points, so that you don’t damage the bark. Straps that are at least ¾ of an inch wide will be much less likely to damage trees than thinner straps or rope.

Accessories Included (Or Not Included!)

When you’re comparing one hammock to another, you’ll also want to look at the accessories that are (or aren’t!) included in the ‘hammock bundle’. As I mentioned briefly earlier, some hammocks are sold a la carté and you’ll need to purchase straps, a bug net, a rain fly, and anything else you need to complete your hammock set-up.

When you’re just starting out, it’s both beneficial and economical to choose a bundle that includes everything you’ll need to get started. Unless you can say with certainty that you’re not going to see a drop of rain during your camping trip, you’re going to want a tarp to go above your hammock. Unless it’s nearly the end of fall and mosquitoes are a complete non-factor, having a bug net to put up just in place is really convenient.

With that said, if your intention for buying a new camping hammock is to have a place to relax during the day before retreating into your tent after night falls, then there’s no need to have all the bells and whistles that come with a full hammock camping set-up. Make sure you know your intended use before you overpay for a full set-up that you don’t really need.

Frequently Asked Questions

There are certain best practices that will help you get the most out of your hammock’s performance and also enjoy your hammock camping experience to the best of your ability. In this Frequently Asked Questions section, we’ll answer some of the most common concerns and inquiries about hammocks and hammock camping.

What is the most comfortable position for sleeping in a hammock?

Experienced hammock campers will pretty much universally tell you the same thing. For the best night’s sleep in a hammock, you should sleep at an angle. This minimizes the amount your back bends. To achieve an optimal sleeping position in a hammock, angle your body about 10 to 15 degrees away from the centerline of your hammock.

What should I look for when it comes to trees to hang my hammock from?

Too many novice hammock campers make the mistake of hanging their hammock from what we like to call “widow makers.” These are old trees with lots of dead branches. Even if they look like they’re still sturdy enough to hang from, avoid them! Don’t even camp underneath them. Instead, look for healthy trees that are at least 8 inches in diameter. Ideally, the tree doesn’t budge much at all once you’ve wrapped your strap around it and you give it a firm tug. If the tree sways a lot, find a new place to anchor your hammock. Remember that you’re going to be hanging there all night!

How should I hang my hammock straps?

Once you’ve found a couple of trees that you’re sure will support your hammock, tie your straps at about a 30-degree angle. When your hammock is attached to the strap, the acute angle between the strap and the attachment point (if you were to draw a straight line from it to your anchor point) should be about 30 degrees. When you achieve this angle, you’ll find that you can get comfortable in your hammock without your back bowing uncomfortable. If you’re unable to achieve this optimal angle, you can always go steeper, as it’s usually more comfortable with more sag, rather than a straight, rigid set-up.

Will any old carabiner do when hanging my hammock?

No! We’ve seen way too many folks fail at their first hammock set-up because they didn’t choose the right carabiners. Fortunately, many hammocks come with their own, but if you have to replace them or choose your own, make sure the carabiners you choose are climbing grade and rated to support the appropriate amount of weight (7). Lightweight wiregate models are almost always an excellent choice for hanging a camping hammock. Certainly beware of the cheap variety packs you’ll find at a local hardware store. If it says ‘Not For Climbing Use’, then it’s ‘Not For Hammock Use’ either.

What are the major differences between hammock camping and tent camping?

Well, for starters you’re up off the ground. Perhaps the most important difference is in airflow. In a hammock, you’ll be exposed to more wind and air movement throughout the night than you would be in a tent. If you’re hammock camping in hot environments, you’ll actually welcome this added airflow. But if you’re camping in a colder climate, you’ll want to bring along an underquilt or pack a heavier sleeping bag when hammock camping. Typically, the underside of your hammock is where you’ll need added insulation.

How can I wash my hammock?

Like most of your gear, the exact recommendations for washing your hammock will depend on the hammock’s manufacturer. Many hammocks can actually be machine-washed, but you’ll need to be careful to remove any metal carabiners or other items before placing them in the machine. Most manufacturers also recommend air-drying your hammock on a breezy day, as the heat of a dryer can compromise the hammock’s material. Most hammocks can be cleaned with mild detergent. Bleach should always be avoided. But, as I mentioned, be sure to consult the exact recommendations for cleaning from your hammock’s manufacturer before starting the process!

Summary

There are actually many amazing benefits of sleeping elevated in a hammock. For our money, it’s hard to beat being rocked to sleep by a gentle breeze as you gaze up at a sky full of stars on a clear night. We hope you’ve enjoyed this review of the best camping hammocks of 2019 and we wish you the best of luck choosing the right hammock for a quality hang!

Via https://bestsurvival.org/best-camping-hammock/

source http://bestsurvivalus.weebly.com/blog/ranking-the-10-best-camping-hammocks-of-2019

[rayanrooke]

Ranking The 10 Best Shooting Gloves of 2019

Shooting gloves are an awesome addition to your hunting arsenal. The thickest of shooting gloves will keep your hands warm and protected as you focus on the target you’re tracking. Thinner varieties allow you to maintain a solid grip on your firearm at all times, especially if you’re someone that deals with sweaty palms!

Our list of the Top Ten Shooting Gloves of 2019 gives you a variety of options so that you can find the pair that fits your needs. Be sure to read through our Buyer’s Guide after the top ten list to learn about the most important considerations when buying a new pair of shooting gloves. Finally, the Frequently Asked Questions section will answer any lingering concerns you might have. So, let’s get to the shooting gloves!

1. Mechanix Wear Specialty Vent Tactical Gloves

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These lightweight mesh shooting gloves are designed to allow plenty of air to circulate throughout the glove to keep your hands cool and dry. They are machine washable and ideal for users dealing with sweaty hands in hot and humid environments.

The Mechanix Wear Specialty Vent Tactical Gloves combine breathable mesh with a perforated 0.6-millimeter palm. They boast anatomical stich darts that conform to the natural curvature of your hand to create a precise fit. Furthermore, these shooting gloves feature a 360-degree, touchscreen-capable palm.

2. FREETOO Tactical Gloves

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These FREETOO gloves are made for hunting, shooting, tactical maneuvers, and other outdoor activities. They are designed to protect your hands from abrasion and scratching while maintaining their dexterity and function.

These gloves come with a reinforced palm, knuckle padding, and double stitching so that they’ll hold up for rugged use. They also come with excellent grip by way of a dual-layer, synthetic leather palm that features anti-skid gridding. Finally, these shooting gloves feature odor-free, breathable materials and a functional vent design that makes them comfortable to wear in both hot weather and during the winter season.

3. 5.11 Tactical TAC A2 Gloves

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These shooting gloves are a popular choice among law enforcement officials and special operators around the world. They are designed to provide the user with enhanced dexterity in operational settings while maintaining superior comfort at the same time.

The 5.11 Tactical TAC A2 Gloves boast a synthetic leather suede palm and a breathable stretch nylon back panel. They come with reinforcements in the areas of the finger joints and the saddle located between the thumb and index finger. Synthetic leather grip pads and TacticalTouch precision fingertips help to guarantee a solid grip on your firearm while a sweat wipe panel on the thumb gives you a way to wipe sweat away in the heat of the moment.

4. ArcheryMax Three Finger Archery Gloves

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Our list of the best shooting gloves wouldn’t be complete without mentioning a glove designed specifically for archers and bow hunters. The ArcheryMax Three Finger Archery Gloves are made from cow leather and include an adjustable Velcro wrist strap.

These gloves are designed for archers that want to protect their fingers while retaining a sensitive feel. By using a soft, thin, and durable leather finish, these gloves provide excellent sensitivity to the feel of the string. The tips of these gloves are also reinforced to improve their longevity.

5. Mechanix Wear M-Pact Coyote

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The Mechanix Wear M-Pact Coyote Gloves are a slightly beefier version of the Specialty Vent Gloves we mentioned earlier. This specific color scheme is designed for military and Special Forces operating in desert and mountainous terrain, but these gloves can also be great for hunters that frequent those same types of environments.

 These gloves are machine washable and the offer superior protection through a Thermoplastic Rubber (TPR) (1) knuckle guard and finger guards. A dual-layer internal fingertip reinforcement also supplies added durability in rugged conditions. These gloves featured D30 (2) palm padding that’s designed to absorb and dissipate high-impact energy through the palm. Lastly, these gloves come with nylon web loops that make them easy to store when not in use.

6. PIG Full Dexterity Tactical Alpha Gloves

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The Pig Full Dexterity shooting gloves offer a single layer, multi-piece palm that’s designed so that there’s only one layer of material contacting your shooting grip. The designers purposely placed the thinnest layer of material on the trigger finger for ultimate sensitivity. They also made the knuckle padding on these gloves thin enough to make it easy to reach for items in your pocket without getting your hand stuck.

These shooting gloves are worn and proven by Special Forces personnel who require maximum dexterity so that they can perform well in tactical situations. The gloves offer a touchscreen capable thumb and trigger finger to allow you to use your smart devices in the field. They also feature a rollover fingertip design that eliminates jammed seams under your fingernails.

7. Beretta Mesh Half Finger Shooting Gloves

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The Beretta Half Finger Shooting gloves are designed for shooters that know the benefits of gloves but still want to maintain the sensitivity of an uncovered trigger finger. These gloves are 100% polyester and offer a mesh back for improved air circulation.

They also offer an easy, pull-on design, which means you don’t have to worry about securing Velcro or any other straps. These half-finger shooting gloves feature a textured palm for better grip and are designed to provide maximum comfort and sensitivity.

8. TitanOPS Full Finger Shooting Gloves

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These shooting gloves are designed to perform on leisure hunts, in tactical situations, and even to keep your hands warm in cold hiking weather. They offer all-terrain versatility and a unique combination of materials that keep your hands warm while also breathing when you sweat. They are engineered with a combination of microfiber, leather, lycra, and nylon.

The TitanOPS Full Finger Shooting Gloves shield your knuckles to prevent cuts and other injuries. They also function well with a reinforced palm and an adjustable wrist strap. These gloves are bacteria-resistant, odor-free, and machine washable, which makes them an excellent long-term solution to your current shooting glove “dilemma.”

9. Seibertron S.O.L.A.G. Tactical Gloves

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Think it would be cool to feel like a Transformer on your next hunt? Well, these gloves at least sound like one! The Seibertron S.O.L.A.G. tactical gloves are made of synthetic leather with a polyurethane finish. They include EVA foam (3) over the knuckle area for an added layer of protection.

These shooting gloves are durable and also more lightweight than a lot of competing shooting gloves you’ll find on the market. They are machine washable and weigh a mere 0.14 ounces. Furthermore, these gloves are available in a wide variety of sizes, which makes it easier to find the right fit according to your unique palm circumference.

10. Hatch NS430 Specialist All-Weather Shooting Gloves

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These Hatch All-Weather Shooting Gloves are ideal for all-day hunts, as they provide superior comfort and breathability. They offer Synsi-feel synthetic leather palms with Extreme-Grip reinforcements on the palms and fingertips to give you added traction in key areas.

If you’re looking for gloves that’ll perform in colder weather, the Hatch Shooting gloves feature neoprene construction, which is the same material used to make wetsuits. This construction helps to ensure a snug fit while also making these gloves more weather-resistant. That said, they also retain their breathability so that they keep your hands cool in milder weather.

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Buyer’s Guide

Now that you’ve got 10 awesome shooting gloves to choose from, let’s talk about how to make the right choice for you. Choosing the right shooting gloves depends on a number of factors, but the most important is your intended use.

For example, bow hunters are going to need different shooting gloves than rifle hunters. Military and law enforcement personnel obviously have different requirements than casual hunters. In this Buyer’s Guide, we’re going to go over four questions you should ask yourself when deciding whether or not to purchase a specific pair of shooting gloves.

Are They Going to Hold Up?

Durability is arguably the #1 factor to consider when choosing shooting gloves. You want to make sure that the choice you make is going to last for years to come. If you plan to use your gloves very frequently, they’re obviously going to be subject to a great deal of wear and tear. The first thing to look at when considering durability is the primary material used in the glove’s construction.

You’ll find gloves made of a variety of leathers, synthetic leather, neoprene, polyester, and a host of other materials. Some leather gloves are also coated with a polyurethane finish, which does improve their longevity (in most cases). Others intentionally construct their gloves with thinner material so that they breathe better.

The ideal pair of shooting gloves should be able to withstand tough environments and extreme weather. They should have a thick palm so that the most sensitive part of your hands is protected. And finally, you generally won’t go wrong with shooting gloves made of deerskin leather, neoprene, thermal warm grip, or HPPE (4).

Are They Going to Feel Good?

After you narrow down your list to gloves that you feel are going to last, it’s time to consider whether or not they’re actually going to feel good on your hands. If you’re using them for hunting, you’ll probably be wearing them for at least four or five hours at a time. If your intention is to have them for tactical use, there’s a good chance this timeframe will be a lot longer. So, you’re going to want to choose gloves that are also comfortable.

Now, the primary material that makes a glove comfortable (or not) is the material it’s made of. Thankfully, leather is an incredibly comfortable material and most of the best shooting gloves use either genuine leather or a comfortable synthetic variety.

In addition to making sure that the material your gloves are made of won’t irritate your skin, you also want to ensure that they offer a reasonable degree of breathability. If your hands are always hot and sweaty when you’re wearing your gloves, you’re probably not going to feel too comfortable in them.

Finally, you should avoid shooting gloves that are overly bulky. When you’re lugging around a bunch of other gear on a hunt, backpacking trip, or tactical mission, you don’t want gloves that weigh you down even further. Make sure the gloves you choose are also lightweight so that you’re not exhausted by the time to pick your spot and stop to target your desired game. 

Are They Going to Make Life Easier?

Whether you’re hunting or making quick decisions in a tactical situation, timing is everything. The last thing you want to be doing in these scenarios is fidgeting with your shooting gloves. You want them to fit snugly and can be adjusted quickly. If your gloves take more than a minute to put on, every second after that is a second wasted.

You want to look for gloves that are easy to use and require little effort to maintain. Cuffs and straps are great features that help hold your gloves on without requiring a bunch of extra effort to secure them in place. They make your experience getting your gloves on and off hassle-free so that you can concentrate on the important tasks in front of you.

Additionally, you want to make sure the gloves you choose are functional. This means you can perform all the necessary tasks you would normally perform with bare hands. Ideally, your gloves will allow you to perform those tasks as quickly (or more quickly) than you could perform them without gloves. Avoid gloves that cause you to fumble with loading your firearm, picking up shells, pulling the trigger, and performing other actions that need to be done seamlessly.

Are They Going to Fit?

Hand sizes vary greatly from individual to individual. Because of that, you should certainly avoid any shooting gloves that claim to be “one-size-fits-all.” The best shooting gloves come in a variety of sizes and the appropriate sizing chart will help you determine which size is right for you.

Take the time to make sure the gloves you order are going to fit. Gloves that are too small can pinch your hands or cut off circulation, which will affect your performance. Gloves that are too large are likely to slip and slide around, which will also cause unnecessary fumbling and readjusting to try to tighten them down.

Gloves that are too large will also cause your hands to get colder in low temperatures. The additional air space around your hand means more opportunity for cold air to creep in. In these scenarios, it’s also important to pay attention to cuff size. In colder environments, a longer cuff length is helpful because it gives you the ability to tuck your sleeves into the gloves.

When choosing the size of shooting gloves, pay close attention to the recommendations from the specific manufacturer of the glove you’re interested in. Different brands size their gloves differently, and it never hurts to double down on research to make sure you’re getting the right size.

Frequently Asked Questions

Your goal when searching for shooting gloves should be to find a pair that fit comfortably and function for your specific needs. Additionally, it’s important to find a glove that’s going to improve your shooting performance. There’s no sense in adding shooting gloves to your arsenal if they make you a worse shooter!

In this Frequently Asked Questions section, we’re going to address several major concerns about the function, fit, and maintenance of shooting gloves. If you have any additional questions that aren’t addressed here, feel free to leave a comment below!

What is the difference between leather and synthetic leather?

To the naked eye, it can be hard to notice the difference. Advancements in synthetic leathers have made them comparable to their “genuine” counterparts. The important difference is that genuine leather comes from animal hides, such as cattle, deer, buffalo, goat, or oxen. In comparison, synthetic leather is usually made from a plastic base, which is then treated with a substance like polyurethane (wax and dye are often used as well) to create a similar color texture to genuine leather.

Synthetic leather tends to be more cost effective to produce, which can make gloves using them cheaper for the consumer. Some enthusiasts insist that it’s impossible to duplicate the feel and durability of genuine leather using a plastic base. But this is precisely the goal that synthetic leather producers are trying to achieve.

Can you tell me more about the benefits of using neoprene in shooting gloves?

Neoprene is the same material used to make wetsuits. It is a synthetic polymer that resembles rubber. It is resistant to oil, heat, and weathering. These qualities showcase the primary benefits of including neoprene in shooting gloves. In combination with synthetic leather, gloves that use neoprene keep your hands warmer when they get wet and are more resistant to extreme weather.

What is the best way to wash my shooting gloves?

Fortunately, many of the shooting gloves we mentioned above are machine washable. When doing so, you should always be careful to follow the specific washing instructions set forth by the manufacturer on the glove’s label.

If your gloves aren’t machine washable (or you don’t have access to a washing machine), the best way to wash synthetic leather shooting gloves is in the sink. Use cold water and mild laundry detergent or dishwashing soap to thoroughly clean the dirt and debris from your gloves. Avoid bleach or solvents, as they can cause discoloration.

Once you’re satisfied that your gloves are clean, air-dry them to prevent the material from shrinking. This will maintain proper sizing and guarantee a snug fit. Never machine dry with heat or expose your gloves to a heat source other than indirect sunlight.

For gloves made of leather from animal hides, you’ll want to use oil-based saddle soap to clean them. This soap will help you remove exterior stains and restore moisture to the leather. Use as little water as possible with the soap so that it does the majority of the work. If you need a deeper clean, you can use a shoe brush for added elbow grease.

Just like with synthetic leather gloves, avoid using bleach or solvents and air-dry your gloves to maintain sizing and prevent the material from shrinking. Never machine dry with heat or expose leather gloves made from animal hides to a heat source other than indirect sunlight. 

Is there a way to add a layer of waterproofing to shooting gloves?

Yes! One of the best products for treating leather gloves is Nikwax Waterproofing Wax for Leather (5). You can apply this wax to clean gloves wet or dry in order to improve their ability to repel water. This product is designed to maintain your glove’s breathability as well. Proper waterproofing can significantly improve the longevity of your shooting gloves.

How can I find my glove size?

The appropriate glove size for your hand will vary depending on the specific manufacturer of the gloves you’re interested in. However, the primary measurements you’ll need to know to find the right glove size are your palm circumference and hand length. Using a measuring tape, wrap around the circumference of your palm between your thumb and forefinger. To find your hand length, measure from the tip of your middle finger to the base of your hand.

When taking hand measurements, always use your dominant hand to determine the right size of gloves. While both measurements are helpful, make sure that you use the larger of the two to make sure you choose the correct size glove (6).

Summary

The right pair of shooting gloves can significantly improve your hunting and/or tactical performance. Perhaps more importantly, they’ll keep your hands comfortable and protected in a variety of harsh environments. We hope you’ve enjoyed this summary of the best shooting gloves of 2019 and we wish you the best of luck in your selection process!

Via https://bestsurvival.org/best-shooting-gloves/

source http://bestsurvivalus.weebly.com/blog/ranking-the-10-best-shooting-gloves-of-2019

[rayanrooke]

Ranking The 10 Best Survival Lighters of 2019

When it comes to wilderness survival, there are a number of essential tools that go with you everywhere. Having at least one reliable method for starting a fire is a must, and many experienced hikers, hunters, and outdoor enthusiasts bring multiple fire starting tools on their excursions. A survival lighter is the perfect tool to rely on when you really need a fire to cook or stay warm in the wilderness.

Our list of the Top Ten Survival Lighters gives you plenty of options to choose from. After we break down the best survival lighters on the market today, we’ll explain the most important factors to consider when buying a survival lighter in our Buyer’s Guide section. Also, be sure to read through the Frequently Asked Questions to learn about the most common concerns regarding this essential survival tool. So, without further ado, let’s get to the lighters:

1. Dual Arc Lighter

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Perfect for backpacking, hiking, and hunting, the Dual Arc Lighter uses an internal lithium-ion battery instead of liquid fuel. The battery is easily rechargeable via USB port and can be utilized at any altitude without the need for an oxygen intake adjustment. The lighter is started with a simple push-button operation and contains a blue indicator light that lets you know when it’s turned on.

This survival lighter is also great for kayaking or backpacking in extremely wet conditions. The external housing features a compact, impact-resistant ABS Zinc alloy design that fits easily in your pocket. The O-ring sealed cover and locking clasp make the lighter both buoyant and waterproof, retaining the lighter’s functionality in even the wettest conditions. Finally, this lighter can withstand winds up to 80 mph and comes with a 10-second time-out safety feature to make sure you don’t drain the battery unnecessarily.

2. Zippo Emergency Fire Starter

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Zippo is one of the most recognized lighter brands in the world. They’ve been around since 1932 (1) and have manufactured more than 550 million windproof lighters in their storied history. This emergency fire starter is perfect for generating a fire when warmth is quickly becoming a matter of life and death.

The Zippo Emergency Fire Starter uses a flint wheel to generate a spark. These sparks then allow you to ignite one of the four frayed wax tinder sticks that are included in the starter. The reliable spark works in all weather conditions and the tinder sticks have a perforated spine so that they can easily be torn for quick lighting. The starter’s housing is water-resistant and will float if dropped in water. This survival lighter receives the prestigious Seal of Approval from the North American Hunting Club.

3. Exotac FireSLEEVE Waterproof Lighter

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Designed for water-based excursions but still perfect for backpackers, hikers, and hunters, this survival lighter remains waterproof even after it has been submerged to three feet for up to 30 minutes. The case is also designed so that it floats in water if dropped.

The Exotac FireSLEEVE Waterproof Lighter is made in the USA. It boasts a unique gas-lock feature that allows you to keep it on without continuously depressing the gas button. In addition, this lock protects the lighter’s gas button from being pressed accidentally. This feature eliminates the unnecessary waste of precious liquid fuel.

4. UST Floating Lighter

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The UST Floating Lighter is a buoyant, waterproof wilderness lighter designed to maintain optimal performance at elevations up to 8000 feet. It maintains performance as you climb using an adjustable flame that provides proper oxygen mix for your conditions. This makes it an ideal choice for backpackers and hunters that need a lighter to perform in mountainous environments.

This survival lighter boasts an O-ring sealed cover and locking clasp to keep water from damaging its critical components. The exterior casing is made of durable, impact-resistant ABS plastic (2). The lighter’s piezo-electric ignition (3) helps to guarantee performance in adverse conditions. This lighter produces a windproof flame that burns at 2000 degrees Fahrenheit. The lighter utilizes quadruple-refined butane and boasts a fuel capacity of 0.04 ounces.

5. Saberlight Sparq Plasma Lighter

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This survival lighter is designed for adventurers that don’t want to rely on a flame that can be affected by wind. This plasma lighter is flameless and features a triple arc plasma beam to light larger items, such as tinder, pine needles, and small sticks. The plasma beam runs on a lithium-ion battery, which is rechargeable via the included cable.

The Saberlight Sparq Plasma Lighter features a windproof and splash-resistant design to keep the lighter’s internal battery and plasma components safe from the elements. The lighter also boasts easy operation via a simple, ON/OFF switch.

6. UCO Stormproof Torch

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The UCO Stormproof Torch is a field-tested and proven survival lighter that runs on butane fuel and produces a triple jet, windproof, waterproof, and adjustable flame. It’s a refillable lighter, which makes it an excellent choice for any outdoor enthusiast looking for a lighter that will end the search for all lighters in the future. The added bonus of this lighter coming with three feet of utility tape doesn’t hurt either!

This survival lighter actually comes in two styles. The first style features the utility tape, which easily tears off and adheres to just about anything. The second style comes with an incorporated bottle opener. The lighter will hold enough butane for about 700 ignitions and the incorporated piezo-electric ignition system lasts for more than 30,000 uses. Finally, this lighter boasts durable ABS and silicone construction.

7. Windmill Delta STORMPROOF Lighter

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 This survival lighter is meant for hikers, backpackers, hunters, and other outdoor enthusiasts that are tired of guessing when their lighter will run out of fuel. It boasts a fuel level indicator that visually reveals how much quadruple-refined butane is left before a refill is needed. The lighter’s total fuel capacity is .035 ounces.

The Windmill Delta STORMPROOF Lighter is made with a catalyzer coil that provides a flame capable of withstanding winds up to 80 miles per hour and burning up to 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit. The lighter’s piezo-electric ignition system eliminates the need to worry about a drained battery or faulty flint. Lastly, this survival lighter features a water-resistant O-ring seal that keeps water out when the lighter cap is closed.

8. Soto Pocket Torch

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 The Soto Pocket Torch is actually a lighter “attachment.” It doesn’t include a lighter itself, but it will take a normal disposal lighter and supercharge its performance. It’s a cheaper alternative to transform a normal lighter into a survival lighter and, in doing so, increase its lifespan by as much as 60 percent.

This pocket torch is best used at altitudes under 5,000 feet, but it features a strong, wind-resistant burner and powerful electric ignition. Great for lighting stoves and lamps or soldering metal and melting snow, this powerful torch produces a flame that can reach temperatures up to 2300 degrees Fahrenheit.

9. Blazer CG-001

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This survival lighter has applications beyond simply lighting cigars, pipes, and cigarettes, although you can certainly use it for those purposes as well. It’s a butane-refillable torch lighter that boasts a wide flame and comes in a durable housing that makes it ideal for outdoor use. It comes with a clear view fuel gauge so that you know before you run out of butane.

The Blazer CG-001 boasts a flip-top safety cover and a key ring latch for easy, one-touch operation. It houses a piezo-electric ignition system, which utilizes a pressurized molecular reaction to provide a reliable spark every time. Additionally, this survival lighter produces a wind-resistant flame that can reach temperatures up to 2,500 degrees Fahrenheit.

10. UST Tekfire Lighter

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The UST Tekfire Lighter boasts a lightweight design and easy-starting operation that makes it ideal for backpacking, camping, and hunting trips. The lighter uses an electric arc to provide a wind-resistant, flameless ignition source. All essential components of this lighter are housed in a rubberized case that allows for easy grip and comes with a wrist lanyard to attach for safety.

This survival lighter runs on a built-in, lithium-ion battery, which means it doesn’t require butane fuel or need flame adjustments at higher altitudes. The 300-mAh battery is rechargeable via any USB port using the included cable and the Tekfire boasts a green indicator light that lets you know when it’s in use. It also features a 10-second time-out safety feature that reduces overall battery usage.

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Buyer’s Guide

Man’s mastery of fire has been one of the major developments in human history (4). Our ability to manufacture warmth in the outdoors is still vital to making our backpacking, hunting, and camping trips much more enjoyable, not to mention its applications for cooking delicious meals in the backcountry.

Selecting a reliable survival lighter is arguably one of the most important gear choices you’ll make. In this Buyer’s Guide, we will highlight the most important factors to keep in mind when choosing between the best survival lighters on the market today. Let’s look at what you need to keep in mind when selecting a survival lighter:

Quality of Construction

Survival lighters are preferable to their disposal counterparts because they are more rugged and capable of being tossed around a bit. But all survival lighters aren’t created equal and some are made with cheaper plastics that can easily crack when dropped or exposed to severe elements. When we say cheap plastic, we’re talking about precisely the kind of plastic used in most durable lighters.

When you’re evaluating survival lighters, ‘ABS’ is a term you should keep an eye on. ABS, or Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene, is an opaque thermoplastic and amorphous polymer. The main benefit of this plastic is that it can be heated to its melting point, cooled, and re-heated again without significant degradation. There are other types of lightweight polymers used in the construction of survival lighters today, but ABS is the most common example.

In addition to durability, the quality of a lighter’s construction plays a role in its overall weight. For ultralight backpackers, hikers, and hunters, every ounce counts. If you can find a polymer that’s just as strong as ABS but considerably lighter, for example, you might be able to reduce your overall pack weight.

Resistance to the Elements

Ultimately, the lighter you choose needs to be resistant to the types of elements and environments it’ll be subject to once it’s in use. A true survival lighter needs to maintain its function regardless of external conditions, so its level of resistance is one of the most important factors to consider when comparing survival lighters against one another.

The materials used in the lighter’s construction obviously play a role in its level of resistance. The type of plastic used will determine its durability when dropped. The design of the cover will tell you how much it’ll maintain resistance to water and dust. The strength of the flame when used in high-wind situations will tell you whether the lighter is really going to work when you need it most.

When you’re looking at a lighter’s level of resistance to the elements, take some time to consider the situations in which you might use it. If you live in a particularly rainy area, for example, waterproofing is a huge priority. If this lighter will go with you on strenuous mountaineering expeditions, on the other hand, finding a flame that will work in heavy winds is paramount.

Use and Reuse

One of the major advantages of a survival lighter is its ability to be reused over and over again. By nature, survival situations are unexpected and highly variable. If you find yourself in one of these situations, you don’t want to be relying on a fire starter that’s only made for a single use or a disposable lighter that could run out of fuel.

After all, the point of buying a survival lighter is so that you’re prepared for ANY survival scenarios that could arise in the future. Choosing a lighter, therefore, that is either refillable or rechargeable is a smart selection.

Types of Fuel

The last factor we’ll discuss in this guide is choosing between the types of fuel survival lighters use to function. This choice can determine how useful your lighter is when you need it and also plays a role in how easy it is to refill. Certain fuels are more accessible than others, and recurring cost also has to be factored in. Generally, there are four types of fuel we’ll discuss: lighter fluid, butane, electric/arc, and plasma.

Lighter fluid is the most accessible of these fuel types. It is a combustible fuel that you’ll be able to pick up for refill purposes at your local grocery, convenience, or outdoor store. Convenience is the biggest benefit with this fuel type, as it tends to be more wasteful than its counterparts. Additionally, most lighters that utilize lighter fluid don’t have windproof flames or require frequent refills.

Butane is another combustible fuel type. This is the most common fuel type found in windproof lighters. Butane burns hotter and faster than lighter fluid, which means lighters that use this fuel type need to be refilled more frequently. Butane is also a little less accessible than lighter fluid, but most outdoor outfitters will carry it for refill purposes.

Lighters that use an electric ignition, or arc igniter, do not require combustible fuel at all. They operate on battery power, some of which are disposable. Most survival lighters, however, include rechargeable internal batteries and those that do tend to be more resistant to wind and water splashes because of the lack of a flame. However, lighters that use an electric or arc fuel source require access to a power source or portable solar panel and generally need to be recharged quite frequently.

Plasma lighters function in largely the same manner as electric lighters. They run on batteries that can be recharged. They don’t rely on an extinguishable flame. And they provide greater resistance to wind and moisture. From a scientific standpoint, there is some debate over the technical differences of plasma and electricity (5), but for all practical purposes, lighters that use these fuel sources function almost identically.

Frequently Asked Questions

Survival lighters should be cared for and handled differently than disposable lighters. They are, of course, made for survival purposes and should be treated as such. In this Frequently Asked Questions section, we’ll answer some of the common concerns about survival lighters and provide some insights into the best ways to use and maintain your new lighter.

What are the uses for a survival lighter?

Some of the main uses of a survival lighter include, but aren’t limited to, making a fire to stay warm, cooking food, boiling and sterilizing water, illuminate your camp and surrounding areas, and keeping potential predators away.

What makes a survival lighter different from a disposable lighter?

There are many factors that make survival lighters different from disposable ones. In general, however, survival lighters are more durable, more resistant to the elements, and more capable of delivering a reliable ignition source than disposable lighters.

Can I use a non-recommended fuel type in my survival lighter?

Generally, it is not recommended to stray from a manufacturer’s recommendation unless you have considerable experience with fuel types and how to harness their power with the specific survival lighting instrument you’ll be using. With a Zippo lighter, for example, gasoline and diesel fuel can, in theory, work, but it isn’t recommended to try unless in dire conditions.

How long do electric lighters need to charge and how many times can I use it on one charge?

This will vary depending on the specific manufacturer and design of the electric lighter you’re considering. The Arc Lighter (#1 on our list), for example, requires about two hours to be recharged and can be used about 90 times on a single charge. That’s based on an average of 8 seconds per light.

Should I ever worry about cleaning my lighter?

Yes, but doing so requires you to look into the specific cleaning instructions recommended by your lighter’s manufacturer. Electric and plasma lighters, as you might imagine, require different cleaning approaches than you’d use for a traditional butane lighter. Electric lighters can actually require more regular cleaning because of the importance of keeping the tip clean at all times.

Over time, a residue can buildup on an electric lighter’s ceramic tip and hinder its performance. To clean this residue, use a clean and dry toothbrush to gently brush it away. Avoid any heavy abrasives or liquid cleaner. Regular cleaning will prevent excess buildup and make it easier to keep the lighter performing at its optimal potential.

Butane lighters also need to be cleaned at semi-regular intervals. They require care less often because they tend to have less moving parts, but still need to be bled and cleaned to any residual film that is deposited when the butane is burnt. It’s recommended to clean your butane lighter every few months (6).

How does altitude affect butane lighters? 

The major factor that impacts lighters at altitude is thin air. Fire needs oxygen to burn. As you move higher in elevation, there is less oxygen and, subsequently, many butane lighters can begin struggling to create and maintain a strong flame. In addition, strong winds also become an increasing factor as you climb higher in elevation in most places. For these reasons, many high altitude expeditions carry flameless survival lighters that rely on an electric or plasma ignition source.

Summary

Once you choose a new survival lighter, you’ll be able to rest easy knowing that you’re prepared for those unpredictable events that can happen when spending time in the great outdoors. As the saying goes, “It’s better to have it and not need it, then to need it and not have it.” We hope you’ve enjoyed this article highlighting the best survival lighters and the important factors to consider when choosing yours. We wish you the best of luck in your future adventures!

Via https://bestsurvival.org/best-survival-lighter/

source http://bestsurvivalus.weebly.com/blog/ranking-the-10-best-survival-lighters-of-2019

[rayanrooke]

Ranking the 10 Best Hiking Shoes of 2019

Not all hiking requires large, clunky boots. Hiking shoes are a lighter option and the best models still provide plenty of protection against the elements. Before you worry about all the gear that’s going to go on your back when hiking, it’s imperative that you start from the ground up and find a pair of hiking shoes that are best for your feet.

Our list of The Top Ten Hiking Shoes of 2019 highlights a variety of high-quality hiking shoes. Some are better for certain applications, so it’s important to find the pair that’s best suited to your favorite types of adventures. To help you make the best choice, our Buyer’s Guide covers many of the most important characteristics to consider when choosing hiking shoes.

1. Keen Targhee II

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You can think of the Keen Targhee II hiking shoes as “four-wheel drive for your feet.” These waterproof hiking shoes keep your feet dry in the rain and also allow them to breathe efficiently on hot days. Their design keeps your heel secure with every step and ample arch support makes them a comfortable shoe for all-day adventures from the beach to the mountains.

These hiking shoes come with an aggressive lug pattern on the outsole for improved traction and an added stability shank for better support on uneven terrain. These shoes boast leather uppers that are designed to last. Additionally, they feature a hydrophobic mesh lining for waterproof performance and a padded tongue and collar for comfort.

2. Columbia Redmond

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The Columbia Redmond hiking shoes are perfect for casual hikers. They’re a low-top style with functionality for day use in off-terrain environments or extended trips in the mountains. These shoes are durable, comfortable, and waterproof. They boast an Omni-Grip multi-terrain traction system with a dual-zone winter tread pattern to guarantee sure footing on snow and ice.

The upper layer of these shoes is engineered with a combination of suede, leather, mesh, and webbing. This midsole combination makes them lightweight and highly breathable. Columbia’s Techlite material is used in this shoe to provide excellent cushioning that absorbs impacts and provides maximum comfort on uneven terrain.

3. Salomon X Ultra 3 GTX

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The Salomon X Ultra 3 GTX hiking shoes are designed for advanced hiking performance. Full grain leather uppers are ultra durable and will actually soften with age for a more comfortable fit. These shoes boast a quick lace system with one-pull tightening for easy securing and removal.

These hiking shoes come with a rubber sole for superior traction on steep, technical terrain. Their full GORE-TEX Membrane guarantees comfort in both wet and dry conditions. Finally, these shoes boast leather engraving on the lateral sides of the foot to provide an added touch of style.

4. Merrell Moab 2 Vent

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 The Merrell Moab 2 Vent hiking shoe is designed to be comfortable out-of-the-box. There’s no need for an uncomfortable break-in phase with these ventilated hiking shoes. They offer performance suede leather and mesh uppers and a protective rubber toe cap to keep your feet protected against rocks and roots.

These hiking shoes come with breathable mesh lining that works to prevent the accumulation of excessive sweat. They also boast a closed-cell foam tongue that’s designed to keep moisture and debris out while still allowing the heat from your feet to escape. Finally, these hiking shoes feature Vibram TC5+ (1) soles with a 5-millimeter lug depth and an EVA midsole for stability and comfort.

5. The North Face Ultra 109 GTX

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These hiking shoes are built to last and designed for trail running and day hiking. They’re a great choice for anyone that doesn’t want to worry about buying another pair of hiking shoes for years to come. The North Face Ultra 109 GTX hiking shoes are made with leather uppers that provide comfort and rubber outsoles that guarantee excellent traction.

The shoes are designed with breathable mesh to keep your feet from sweating too much. Their Gore-TEX uppers include a waterproof, breathable membrane to keep your feet dry when it rains or snow. In addition, these hiking shoes feature a protective TPU (2) toe cap, a compression-molded EVA midsole, and an ESS midfoot shank (3).

6. Altra Lone Peak 4.0

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The Altra Lone Peak 4.0 is a trail running shoe that’s also perfect for casual day hikers. It includes many of the same features as the ‘3.0’ version of Altra’s shoe, but with some notable improvements. These shoes feature a new upper with an integrated tongue and static webbing that provides better cinching ability.

These hiking shoes are also designed with a flexible strap overlay for a roomier forefoot fit. A sandpaper-textured toe cap protects your toes from unexpected encounters with rocks or tree roots. Draining mesh in the shoe’s heel and forefoot provide improved breathability and multi-directional, carved lugs give you excellent traction while, at the same time, reducing the shoe’s overall weight.

7. La Sportiva Spire GTX

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The La Sportiva Spire GTX is a light-duty hiking shoe that’s perfect for day trips and capable of handling variable, rugged terrain. It’s also a great choice for backpackers that desire a versatile and waterproof hiking shoe that boasts exceptional breathability and the durability to support lighter loads.

These hiking shoes are designed with a durable, abrasion-resistant mesh upper that provides ample foot protection. These uppers also feature a Nano Cell 2.0 structure that makes these shoes breathe well. The shoes have a Vibram XS Trek outsole with Impact Brake System to provide amazing traction and grip. Finally, the integrated STB control system guarantees a comfortable, snug, stable fit.

8. Oboz Sawtooth Low Bdry

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The Sawtooth Low Bdry hiking shoe is meant for hikers that need an extra layer of water protection when hiking over muddy terrain and crossing the occasional mountain stream. The ankle-friendly asymmetrical collar of these shoes is just one of the features that combine to make this hiking shoe comfortable and durable.

These shoes are best for folks with a medium foot volume. Their waterproof, BDry system is comprised of three core components: a proprietary, tape-sealed polyurethane film bootie, hydrophobic upper materials, and a textile lining that wicks sweat away. Finally, these hiking shoes boast a rubber outsole that offers intense traction and sidewall lugs that help you handle off-camber trails. Best of all, Oboz plants a tree for every pair sold!

9. Adidas Terrex Fast R Gore-Tex

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These light and athletic hiking shoes are designed for hikers that want to move fast up and down the mountain without sacrificing comfort, durability, and, most importantly, traction. The Adidas Terrex Fast R GORE-TEX hiking shoe features Continental Rubber outsole grabs and grips that provide excellent traction in all directions.

These hiking shoes come with a ripstop upper with abrasion-resistant welding and lace bungee stows that help you avoid lace tangling. A waterproof and breathable GORE-TEX lining keeps your feet dry and a proprietary medial and lateral support device keeps your feet from pronating while providing added stability.

10. Vasque Breeze 3.0 Low GTX

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The Vasque Breeze 3.0 Low GTX hiking shoe is an ideal choice for day hiking, mixed trail conditions, and lightweight overnight trips. The boast best-in-class grip with a Vibram Megagrip compound and they are the most breathable, full-featured hiking shoe that Vasque offers. Moreover, you’ll find them incredibly comfortable from the moment you first lace them up.

These hiking shoes come with uppers made with 1.8-millimeter waterproof Nubuck leather and air mesh material for breathability. The footbed is manufactured with dual-density EVA and the midsole features a TPU shank and ATC midsole with EVA cushioning pods. Finally, their outsole is made of Vasque’s exclusive Vibram Contact Grip with Megagrip compound.

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Buyer’s Guide

Vibram soles have been largely responsible for revolutionizing the world of hiking shoes. The company was founded in 1937 and named after its founder, Vitale Bramani, who is credited with inventing the first rubber lug (4). Since his invention, hiking shoes have changed rapidly and dramatically.

For buyers today, this means that there are hundreds of options to sort through. These options can be overwhelming, but it’s important to know exactly what to consider when buying new hiking shoes. Our Buyer’s Guide will focus on several factors that will help you narrow down your choices and, eventually, land, on the perfect hiking shoe for you.

Waterproof vs. Water-Resistant 

Many hiking shoes claim to be “waterproof.” While they aren’t telling a direct untruth, it’s important for you to realize the exact conditions where most shoes will retain their waterproof ability. Most shoes that claim to be waterproof will hold up well even in more serious rain events. They won’t however, remain dry if you decide to wade across a mountain stream.

Extra layers of waterproof protection become more important for hikers that desire to spend longer periods in the wilderness. The longer you’re out, the higher the likelihood you’ll have of experiencing inclement weather. If this becomes the case, you want shoes that will keep your insoles dry. When insoles do get wet and stay wet, your feet become susceptible to athlete’s foot, trench foot, and other types of bacterial fungus.

Ankle Support 

While hiking shoes are designed to allow you to move lighter and faster than most hiking boots, you’ll still want a healthy degree of ankle protection when hiking on uneven terrain. If you intend to use your new shoes for long trips, ankle protection becomes even more important. As you put more miles on your body, fatigue can make your joints and ligaments more susceptible to injury. Make sure you choose a pair of hiking shoes that provides the ankle support you’ll need when pushing through those last few miles of a long day.

Cushioning

Casual hikers can usually get away with less cushioning than those of you that want to use your new shoes for multi-day excursions. In addition, the added pounding that comes with trail running typically means that runners like an extra degree of cushioning as well.

When evaluating the level of cushioning of a certain pair of hiking shoes, look closely at the design of the midsole and outsole. These are the two areas that play the largest role in how much cushioning a given shoe offers. Another tip is to look more closely at the individual reviews left by people that have already tested the shoes. They will often tell you a lot about the conditions you can use them in and remain comfortable. 

Traction

Hiking shoes must have much better traction than your average pair of athletic shoes. They must be able to grip effectively on a variety of terrains and handle well if things get wet as well. When looking through hiking shoes, a rubber outsole is a must. Rubber is the best material for hiking shoe outsoles because, on average, they perform better across a multitude of terrains.

Other materials have more specific applications for trekking on snow and ice, for example, but rubber is the go-to for most hiking shoes. Vibram is a good brand to look for, as they offer some of the best traction around.

Lacing Methods

Laces are often one of the first things to go on poorly manufactured pair of hiking shoes. They can become frayed and make it tough to tighten your shoes down enough to avoid hot spots, blisters, and other foot maladies. To counter this unfortunate reality, many hiking shoe brands have begun to use quick lace systems that don’t require you to tie the laces at all.

These systems have a loop at the top and a mechanism to cinch the “laces” tight. Many also have dedicated places to stow the loop so that it’s not dangling precariously as you journey up the trail. The only problem with these systems is that, if not designed properly, the mechanism that is supposed to keep the laces tight can allow them to loosen over time.

If you’re considering a pair of hiking shoes with this type of quick lace system, make sure to, again, look through the reviews of other people that have already used them to make sure that the system actually keeps the shoes tight throughout your desired length of hikes. 

Breathability

This factor is typically not as large an issue with hiking shoes as it can be with boots. Some hiking boots are specifically designed for colder climates. As a result, they don’t breathe well when temperatures warm up. The risk you run with hiking shoes that don’t breathe well excess moisture retention.

When your feet stay wet for long periods, they begin to become susceptible to the effects of bacterial fungus. Your feet can become incredibly sensitive to the touch and may begin emitting a nasty odor. This will be a big problem on extended hiking trips. To avoid this issue, make sure you choose a hiking shoe that is designed to wick moisture away from your feet. A hydrophobic lining in the midsole is an excellent feature to look for. 

Durability

The durability of a hiking shoe is largely dependent on the materials used in its construction. Leather is typically more durable than most synthetic materials, which means shoes with leather uppers generally last longer than those made with synthetic uppers. The trade-off, however, is comfort.

In addition to being more durable, leather also generally starts out a bit stiffer than most synthetics. Because of this, hiking shoes with leather can require a bit more time to break in at first. That being said, synthetic materials have improved dramatically in recent years.

Shoes with synthetic uppers are more durable than ever. The added benefit of synthetic materials is that they offer what many companies advertise as “out-of-the-box comfort.” This simply means they take less time to break in.

Weight

This is the primary reason for choosing hiking shoes over boots. Although those navigating very technical terrain generally wear boots, you’ll be hard-pressed to find any multi-day backpackers lugging around excessively clunky footwear. For day hiking or lightweight overnight trips, you’ll want to keep your footwear light so that you can move fast and spend more time enjoying the wilderness around you.

Most of the hiking shoes we’ve highlighted here fall in the range of one to three pounds. At first, this may not sound like much of a difference. But consider hiking for 28 days straight on the John Muir Trail or another long hiking trail. Over the course of long hikes, the added weight can make a big difference on how your body responds to the feats you’re asking it to perform.

Frequently Asked Questions

Footwear, in general, has come a long way since the earliest leather adaptations (5). In many ways, today’s hiking shoes are more complex than ever before. In this section, we will answer some of the most common questions about hiking shoes and their composition.

What is the shank of a shoe? 

A shoe’s shank is part of its supportive structure. It is located between the insole and outsole and runs underneath the arch of the foot. The design and composition of the shank plays a large role in the functionality of the shoe. In effect, the shank is responsible for diminishing the load on the wearer’s feet and calves over the course of a hike. The shank also provides an added layer of protection against punctures and other injuries that could occur as the result of the wearer stepping on exceptionally hard objects while hiking.

What is a shoe’s lug pattern? 

The design of a shoe’s lug pattern is largely responsible for the shoe’s ability to provide traction and grip on a variety of surfaces. In general, a deeper lug pattern will provide greater traction on all surfaces. However, the material used in a shoe’s lug pattern is also of some importance. In general, materials that are too hardcan actually provide less traction on slippery surfaces. For this reason, most of the best hiking shoes use rubber in the outsole and lug pattern.

What all is included in a shoe’s “uppers”?

A shoe’s “uppers” can generally be summarized as everything that wraps and protects your foot from external elements. You can think of it in this way: If you removed a shoes uppers, you’d essentially be standing on a pair of “sandal” soles without any way to keep those soles attached to your feet. Most hiking shoe uppers are either composed of leather or synthetic material (6). Waterproof ability is an especially important component of a hiking shoe’s uppers.

How can I find the best fit when trying on new hiking shoes? 

First, make sure that your toes aren’t touching the front of the shoe. This is a prime way to set your toes up for discomfort. Our feet naturally swell throughout the course of the day, so it’s important to choose a size that gives your feet a little wiggle room. When you push your toes forward, they should only lightly touch the front of the shoe, rather than being shoved hard up against it.

Next, make sure your heel doesn’t move around at all once you’ve tightened the shoes up properly. To test this, you can roll your foot from toe to heel and feel for any “slippage” of the heel. You’re feeling for the shoe and your heel to move together, in sync. If they don’t, you’ll be much more likely to experience blisters once you’re actually on the trail.

Lastly, make sure you’re not experiencing any uncomfortable tightness or pinching when the shoes are laced up tightly. You want a snug fit, of course, but pinching or tightness in a hiking shoe can restrict blood flow and, consequently, increase fatigue.

Summary

If you set out to build a house, it wouldn’t make sense to build the roof before the foundation was in place. Just the same, it doesn’t make sense to worry about finding the right backpack and putting the right gear into it before you’ve secured a pair of hiking shoes you can trust. We hope you’ve enjoyed the information in this article and found it useful in selecting the best hiking shoes for your needs. We wish you the best of luck in all your upcoming hiking adventures!

  Via https://bestsurvival.org/best-hiking-shoes/

source http://bestsurvivalus.weebly.com/blog/ranking-the-10-best-hiking-shoes-of-2019

[rayanrooke]

Ranking The 10 Best Hunting Backpacks of 2019

Hunting backpacks give big-game hunters the ability to cover greater distances and keep all their belongings and gear handily accessible. These backpacks are designed to carry items specific to hunting and they are capable of handling huge loads of meat after a kill. We can measure a good hunting backpack both by what it can store on the way out and how much additional weight it can handle on the way home.

If you’re hunting big game, you need a hunting backpack if you plan on bringing back the spoils of your labor. Our list of the Top Ten Hunting Backpacks includes options for hunters that target specific game, as well as a few great all-around choices. Furthermore, be sure to read through our Buyer’s Guide to learn the most important criteria for choosing the right hunting backpack for your needs.

1. ALPS OutdoorZ Commander

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The ALPS OutdoorZ Commander is an external frame hunting backpack that’s designed to stand up to the rigors of year-round hunting expeditions. It is made of durable nylon ripstop fabric that resists tears and rips in even the harshest environments. This pack is best for individuals with a torso measurement (1) between 17 and 23 inches.

This hunting backpack allows you to organize your gear among five distinct pockets. It boasts a dedicated spotting scope pocket, a large main compartment, front pocket, and two side accessory pockets for smaller items. It also features a clip-style holster, drop-down rifle pocket, and hydration pocket and port.

2. Eberlestock Mainframe

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The Eberlestock Mainframe hunting backpack is designed for experienced hunters that like to customize the layout and organization of their hunting gear and supplies. The Intex II frame truly allows for endless configurations and the frame can be used independently when you’re carrying out your game.

When carrying gear, this backpack supports the addition of various options via zippers, buckles, or MOLLE/PALS webbing (2). It boasts three built-in compression straps and an adjustable ladder harness to make carrying comfortable with large loads. The exterior material of this hunting backpack features 1000-denier waterproof nylon construction.

3. Badlands 2200

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The Badlands 2200 hunting backpack is a truly versatile, stealthy, and comfortable pack that’s fully loaded with features that’ll make you more successful on your next hunt. The pack is made of DWR-treated fabric that resists moisture, dirt, and blood. The fabric also offers scent suppression, which will make the drive home much more enjoyable.

This hunting pack boasts ThermoMold suspension with molded foam that matches the contour of your shoulders and back. The T-6 Aircraft Aluminum internal frame with load lifter straps moves the pack’s weight from your back to your hips in order to reduce fatigue. In addition, the 2200 features whisper-quiet KXO-32 fabric (3) that makes you virtually undetectable to your prey.

4. Timber Hawk Killshot

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Timber Hawk’s team delivers one of the best hunting backpacks for serious hunters that often enjoy multi-day backcountry trips. The pack offers a total capacity of 56.2 liters and can carry a rifle, bow, or tripod in multiple ways, allowing you to customize your load for comfort and optimum accessibility.

The Timber Hawk Killshot hunting backpack is made with durable, ultra-quiet twill lining and comes with a pull-out rain cover. It also boasts a two-liter reversible hydration bladder and bottom and top lashing points for external storage. Additionally, this hunting backpack features an adjustable shoulder strap system that fits multiple torso sizes and a deluxe padded waist belt with ergonomic tightening adjustment.

5. INSIGHTS Hunting The Shift

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The Shift hunting backpack from INSIGHTS Hunting is optimal for hunters that want to carry either a rifle or a crossbow (or both!) effortlessly. It gives you the ability to seamlessly switch from a rife to a crossbow with little effort. It’s also the only pack of its kind that offers a unique optics protector that doubles as a removable gear compartment.

This hunting backpack boasts an improved optics shield design and anchoring system. It also comes with a new TS3 gear access system (4) and Realtree EDGE coloring. This pack’s designers have combined weapon carrying capability with superior gear organization for multi-talented hunters. It’ll even handle your needs during muzzleloader season.

6. ALPS OutdoorZ Pursuit

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The ALPS OutdoorZ Pursuit hunting backpack is made for hunters that want to move light and fast through thick, wooded country. This pack is also a great choice for hunters in places that experience inclement weather, as it comes with a blaze orange rain cover that keeps your gear dry and safe when the weather turns.

This hunting backpack boasts a unique organizational front shelf pocket that gives you the freedom to keep your essential gear at your fingertips at all times. It also comes with a drop-down rifle or bow holder pocket, quiver holders, and a hydration pocket and port. Furthermore, this pack features a total capacity of 2700 cubic inches and accommodates clip-style holsters via two pockets with reinforced webbing.

7. Badlands Superday

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The Badlands Superday is a hunting backpack made for maximizing day hunts. It provides ample space for all the gear you’ll need for a day in the field and includes a number of useful features that serve to eliminate distractions and keep you focused on your game. This pack is capable of carrying a rifle, bow, and pistol.

It is a hydration compatible hunting backpack that snugly fits a two-liter water bladder. It also boasts an ergonomically advanced molded foam suspension system that matches the contour of your body. The pack’s load lifters also serve to transfer heavier loads from your back to your hips to reduce fatigue. Finally, this pack features KXO-32 fabric, which is the strongest, quietest, most waterproof material in the hunting world.

8. Slumberjack Carbine 2500

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The Slumberjack Carbine 2500 is ideally suited to hunters that spend most of their time on all-day excursions or minimalist overnight trips. The pack is made of 600-denier polyester and boasts a supportive single-stay suspension system that assists with even the heaviest loads. This pack’s multiweapon carry system allows you to transport a bow and/or rifle.

This hunting backpack includes a built-in rifle rest that helps you stabilize your shot. It also comes with multiple pockets that make it easy to keep your gear organized. The front pockets are best for smaller items while the two large side pockets are ideal for optics, a bipod, and other bigger items. In addition, this hunting backpack features multi-use compression straps that keep your load secure and also double as a trophy carry system.

9. ALPS OutdoorZ Dark Timber

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If your priorities are comfort and durability, the ALPS OutdoorZ Dark Timber shouldn’t be overlooked. This hunting backpack features a padded waist belt and shoulder straps designed to provide superior comfortable even when the pack is fully loaded. An adjustable sternum strap also helps you secure the pack comfortably to your body for daylong hunting trips.

This hunting backpack comes with a large main pocket where extra clothing and larger gear can be organized while remaining accessible. It also comes with side mesh pockets, a lower storage pocket, and a hydration pocket port. Once loaded down, this pack’s side compression straps help to pull the weight in closer to your body’s center of gravity, making it much easier and more comfortable to carry.

10. Horn Hunter Forky Day

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The Horn Hunter Forky Day hunting backpack is made for small-game hunters that like to travel light. At the same time, however, hunters will like that you won’t have to sacrifice storage space in order to minimize carrying weight. It even includes bottom gear loops that add to its total storage capacity.

This hunting backpack has a large main compartment, six medium compartments, and two side pockets. All of your items, big and small, can be organized efficiently and effectively with this hunting backpack. Finally, this pack’s molded foam padded back makes carrying it for day hunts comfortable.

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Buyer’s Guide

The packs we’ve highlighted above are designed for various applications. The best hunting backpack for you depends largely on how you intend to use it, what specific game you wish to hunt, where you predominantly hunt, and a host of other factors.

Even though we’ve already narrowed down your options, it’s important for you to find the exact pack that’s right for you so that you can move onto actually use it. This Buyer’s Guide will focus on the most important characteristics that set hunting backpacks apart from one another.

Design

There are a lot of design elements that backpack designers include to capture your attention and, ultimately, convince you to purchase that pack. When it comes to actual use, however, there is one main design element that matters before all others. That element is whether the pack can be classified as an internal or external frame pack.

External frame hunting backpacks are ideal if you plan on carrying meat in the backpack after a kill. They give you added support for the sometimes-awkward shape and size or your kill and are better at supporting heavier loads. Another benefit of external frame packs is that they allow for additional airflow between your pack and your back, which serves to keep you cooler as you lug your day’s earnings back home. The main disadvantage of external frame backpacks is that they can be a little less stable, overall, when compared to internal frame packs.

Internal frame backpacks aren’t designed to carry the large loads that external frames can support, but they are more comfortable and allow the user to move lighter and faster. Depending on the type of hunting you’re doing, this can be a considerable advantage. Backpacks with internal frames are actually designed to mold to your specific body type, which makes them much more stable. This design can also serve to reduce fatigue.

Once you’ve decided on an internal or external frame, you also want to make sure the pack you choose offers plenty of space for gear storage and organization. If you like to customize your pack’s storage system, look for a pack that boasts MOLLE or PALS compatibility. Dividers also make it easy to keep clothing organized on overnight hunting trips and external pockets should be large enough to safely store the items you’ll need the most access to while hunting.

Load Management

In addition to the pack’s frame, there are a couple of features that help you manage the pack’s load. If you plan on carrying your game home comfortably, look for packs that boast load lifter and compression straps.

Load lifter straps are typically located at the top of the pack’s shoulder straps. They serve to lift the load above your hips so that it is supported by the strongest bones and muscles in your body.

Compression straps help to move the pack’s weight closer to your body’s center of gravity. When combined, these two features for load management help to make your pack more comfortable and can significantly reduce overall fatigue on multi-day hunting trips.

Size: Carrying Capacity

When we talk about the size of a hunting backpack, we have to break things down into two categories. The first category is the amount of gear the pack can carry. Most packs that are designed for day trips or hunts where you’ll only be out for a few hours offer a capacity somewhere around 3,000 cubic inches. For these types of hunts, this is plenty of space for your personal gear, hunting supplies, extra ammo, scopes, small tools, and maybe even a trail camera.

Packs that are designed for multi-day hunting trips, on the other hand, typically offer a total storage capacity somewhere in the range of 4,500 to 7,000 cubic inches. These packs will help you cover more terrain and keep you prepared for anything you might encounter during multiple days in the wilderness. While these larger packs take some time to get used to carrying (if you haven’t before), the trade-off is that they truly give you the space to bring along everything you’ll need, along with a few “comfort” items.

Size: Fit

The second category to consider when we talk about size pertains to how the pack fits with your unique body type. Comfort should not be overlooked when choosing a new hunting backpack, especially if you plan on carrying a lot of ground. Pack’s that are either too long or too short for your specific torso length can cause painful backaches and discomfort in your hips.

Torso length is the major measurement you’ll need to help you find a pack that is the right size for your body. Be particularly wary of packs that claim to be “one-size-fits-all.” If you encounter this, be sure to read through user reviews to see how people with varying body sizes like the pack. You could even contact the manufacturer directly to get more information about the pack’s exact fit.

Stealth

We are talking about hunting after all. If your pack is noisy and cumbersome, it’s probably not going to lend to a successful outing. Look carefully at the materials used in the backpack’s construction to know if the manufacturer has taken steps to make it quieter. Ideally, your pack’s material should stay quiet when snagged on bushes or branches. In addition, the zippers and buckles should operate quietly so that you don’t spook your prey when trying to set up your shot.

Features

Just like with fancy design elements, it can be easy to get distracted by the sheer quantity of features that some packs offer these days. Deciding which features are truly essential for the applications you intend is an important part of choosing the right hunting backpack. For our money, the top two features your hunting backpack should include are a rain cover and water bladders.

Keeping your gear dry in the event of rain or snow is almost as important as staying hydrated throughout the duration of your hunt. The best part of buying a pack with an included water bladder is that it gives you the means of staying hydrated without constantly having to remove a water bottle. Water bladders also allow you to noiselessly rehydrate without scaring away your prey.

Frequently Asked Questions

Most hunters are aware that animals hunted in the wild offer better sources of meat than what we might find in the supermarket because they consume a natural diet and roam free, as they were intended to do (5).

Once you’ve decided on a hunting backpack, it’s important that you know how to use and maintain it so that it lasts for years. This Frequently Asked Questions section will address some of the most common concerns about caring for and maintaining hunting backpacks.

What’s the best way to clean my hunting backpack?

Start by emptying your backpack of all its contents that aren’t “washable.” This basically means anything that didn’t come with the backpack when you bought it. Go into your bathroom and fill your tub with hot water. Dump in the same type and amount of detergent you’d normally use to wash your clothes when you get back from a hunt. Any scent-free, non-UV soap or detergent will suffice. Now add your pack, and all its components, to the tub and let them soak for two to three hours. Remove and hang dry before refilling and heading out for your next trip.

Do you have any tips for removing blood from my pack’s fabric?

Fresh blood can usually be removed from fabric with a simple, but effective application of a heavy-duty soap (like Oxi-Clean) and cold water (6). However, the blood that can get on your pack as the result of a kill will likely have plenty of time to dry before you get a chance to wash it out. In this case, there are several options for removing it.

Hydrogen peroxide is effective at removing blood from fabric and is actually recommended by some hunting backpack manufacturers (7). Other inventive ways to removed blood from fabrics include the use of meat tenderizer, an enzymatic cleaner, lemon juice and sunlight, and an assortment of stronger treatments (8).

Should I spray my hunting backpack with some type of waterproofing substance?

There are a variety of waterproofing sprays that can help to provide an additional layer of protection to keep your gear and supplies dry in inclement weather. While having a good pack rain cover is going to be your best bet to keep water out, you can also look into a spray and seam sealer if you’re really concerned. One of the best waterproof sprays is Scotchgard Outdoor Water Shield. One bottle will typically be enough to cover your entire backpack. Some additional methods for keeping your hunting gear dry are through the use of a waterproof liner, dry bags, or heavy-duty plastic bags and containers. 

What are the top 3 items I should always have in my hunting backpack? 

This is highly debatable. Indeed, it would be much easier if you asked about the Top 40 items to keep in your hunting backpack. When it comes to gear and supplies, there’s a lot of credence to the “it’s better to have it and not need it” mentality. With that said, if we had to narrow it down to the top three items to have in your hunting backpack, we would go with paracord, a multi-tool, and a lighter or flint and steel.

Summary 

Preparation can’t be underestimated when taking extended forays into the wilderness to hunt game, whether your preferred prey is elk and deer or grouse and pheasant. The hunting backpacks in this article give you a place to store all of your gear in an organized fashion and some offer the extra space you’ll need to bring even the largest of kills home. We hope you’ve enjoyed this list of the top ten hunting backpacks and we wish you the best of luck on your next hunting trip!

Via https://bestsurvival.org/best-hunting-backpack/

source http://bestsurvivalus.weebly.com/blog/ranking-the-10-best-hunting-backpacks-of-2019

[rayanrooke]

Ranking The 10 Best Travel Backpacks of 2019

Traveling light is the ideal way for the digital nomads and adventurers of today to see the world. The right travel backpack gives you a place to safely store all your essentials without having to carry multiple cumbersome bags. An ideal travel backpack keeps all your gear in one easy-to-carry container.

Our list of the Top Ten Travel Backpacks includes selections that are specifically designed to be the only bag you’ll need for your travels. After check out our top ten, be sure to read through our comprehensive Buyer’s Guide to learn the most important factors to consider when choosing a new travel backpack.

1. Nomatic Travel Pack

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Ideal for the lightweight business traveler, the Nomatic is a carry-on sized pack with an internal, zippered laptop sleeve to keep your computer safe. The exterior of the pack is made with lightweight and durable Kodra tarpaulin that’s also water-resistant. The pack’s Kiss-lock zippers also function to keep water out and your belongings safe.

This pack boasts an internal mesh divider that allows you to keep your everyday-carry items separate from electronics. The pack’s capacity can expand to 30 liters in total and it weighs just 4 pounds when empty. Perhaps best of all, the internal laptop pocket in this pack is TSA-approved (1), which means you can simply lay the pack flat and pass through TSA checkpoints quickly and efficiently.

2. Teton Sports Scout 3400

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This internal frame backpack is ideal for travelers taking extended vacations to far-flung regions of the world. It gives you a total of 3400 cubic inches of internal space for clothes, electronics, everyday carry items, and a few fun belongings you’ll want on the road. It’s also one of the most budget-friendly travel packs on our list.

The Teton Sports Scout 3400 offers adaptability to your body type for comfortable carrying over longer distances. It features multi-position torso adjustment, a durable open-cell foam lumbar pad, and molded channels for increased airflow and comfort. Finally, this travel backpack helps you stay organized with a designated sleeping bag compartment, compression straps, and a number of exterior pockets for those items you’ll need at a moment’s notice.

3. Osprey Farpoint 40

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The Osprey Farpoint 40 is ideal for the U.S.-based business traveler or the international jet setter. Its sleek design means it’s fashionable enough to take right into your meetings with you and its functionality makes it the only travel backpack you’ll need, whether you plan to use it in urban or wilderness environments.

This travel backpack offers 40 liters of internal storage and boasts total dimensions of 22” H x 14” W x 9” D. The pack comes with two internal compression straps to help secure your belongings and handle loads up to 40 pounds with ease. In addition, the Farpoint features a stowaway back panel that allows you to zip the hipbelt and harness systems away for a slimmer profile when traveling.

4. WITZMAN Canvas Rucksack

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This vintage-style travel backpack is ideal for the traveler that likes to turn a few heads as they walk through the airport. The pack’s exterior is made of premium-quality cotton canvas and polyurethane and the pack offers total dimensions of 13” L x 21” H x 7.5” W.

The WITZMAN Canvas Rucksack is a 2-in-1 travel backpack and a duffel bag. It comes with an additional duffel shoulder strap that can be detached and stowed away when not in use. It also boasts two front zipper pockets, a side pocket, and the main pocket with a laptop window that fits 12 to 16-inch computers. Lastly, this backpack’s padded mesh shoulder straps are safely tucked away in a zippered pocket until you need them.

5. Timbuk2 Command

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Designed for the daily commuter in urban environments, the Timbuk2 Command travel backpack meets the needs of the on-the-go business traveler. The pack offers a number of features that makes airport travel easier, accessing vital everyday items more convenient, and keeping all of your belongings organized a breeze.

This travel backpack is made of 400-denier nylon faille (2) with a tricot-lined floating pocket to protect sunglasses or a smartphone. The pack’s internal laptop compartment, which fits laptops up to 15 inches, is fully padded and lined with quilted tricot fabric. Additionally, this travel backpack features a padded front pocket for iPad mini storage, compression straps for storing jackets or yoga mats, and five smaller exterior pockets for organizing items to which you need quick and easy access.

6. Hynes Eagle 40

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The Hynes Eagle 40 will provide just as much value to the daily commuter as it will to the international business traveler. This backpack has been designed to be durable, versatile, and stylish, as well as to carry the exciting potential to enhance any travel experience by making it easier to carry all your essentials in one organized place.

This travel backpack is made of water repellent polyester. It offers a capacity of 40 liters in total and comes with dimensions of 20.1” H x 13.4” W x 9.8” D so that it will fit in the overhead compartment or under the seat in front of you during air travel. The pack also boasts multiple exterior compression buckle straps to secure your load. Finally, suppressible shoulder straps make this pack convertible from backpack to duffel bag in seconds.

7. Osprey Porter 46

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The Osprey Porter 46 provides travelers with the perfect fit between undersized duffel and an oversized backpacking bag. The pack boasts a total capacity of 46 liters and has dimensions of 23” H x 15” W x 13” D. It is made of nylon construction and does offer D-ring attachments for adding a separate shoulder strap if you desire.

This travel backpack features Straightjacket compression with padded wings and a lower panel that works in harmony to secure and protect clothing and gear. It also boasts a protected laptop sleeve in a rear panel that locks for security and easy access when traveling. Finally, this pack’s shoulder harness and hip belt can be stowed away for safe travel through airports, in taxis, and wherever else your travels take you.

8. Kelty Redwing 44

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This travel backpack has the features to make traveling simpler or to provide excellent value on your next overnight camping trip. For the traveler that values versatility over all else, the Kelty Redwing 44 is an excellent choice. The pack’s combination of versatility and convenience make it the perfect companion for quick getaways.

This travel backpack boasts a unique hybrid-loading U-zipper design that makes it both a top loader and a panel loader all at once. It comes with an exterior stash pocket on the front of the pack that’s great for tucking away your passport, maps, and other essential items you need to access quickly. Also, this travel backpack features a hydration sleeve that doubles as a safe storage area for your laptop or tablet.

9. WANDRD PRVKE

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This backpack is meant for the lifestyle or outdoor photographer that needs to handle rugged conditions and keep their gear safe along the way. It offers three friendly points of access to internal contents: side quick camera access, lay-flat clamshell opening, and the adjustable roll-top closure. The best part of the roll top in this pack is that it can be expanded to create an extra five liters of total storage capacity.

The WANDRD PRVKE travel backpack contains a laptop sleeve that fits computers up to 15 inches and makes getting through airport security simple. It also comes with a removable, modular camera cube that offers customizable storage for a complete camera kit, including a DLSR and up to 8 lenses. By removing the cube, the pack converts to a fully functional daypack.

10. Patagonia Black Hole

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The Patagonia Black Hole backpack is designed for the traveler that wants a rugged pack that will stand up to being thrown around a bit. This pack is made of 450-denier ripstop polyester that withstands scuffs, scrapes, and miles of rough handling while keeping the internal contents safe and secure. It’s a weather-resistant pack that features a total capacity of 30 liters and a weight of just 2 pounds, 2.7 ounces when empty.

This travel backpack’s main zippered compartment comes with a padded sleeve that can hold a hydration reservoir of laptops and tablets up to 15 inches. The pack’s exterior is coated with a TPU laminate for added weatherproofing. Internal features include a mesh pocket with a key keeper and an organizer panel to keep easy track of phone, wallet, and other small everyday items.

Buyer’s Guide

Gerry Outdoors was the first company to invent a backpack with a zipper way back in 1938. (3) Before that, school children were largely using bags with straps and backpacks used by hikers and recreationists used other means of securing their contents. Since the 1930s, the size, shape, and functionality of backpacks have exploded exponentially.

We’ve put this Buyer’s Guide together to help you learn more about what separates one pack from another. In doing so, we’ve focused on a number of factors about backpack construction that you must consider in the selection of your new travel backpack.

Fabrics

Denier count is the most widely used term for describing the strength of the fabric used in today’s backpacks. However, the type of fabric utilized in backpack construction is just as important, if not more so, than the thickness of that fabric. In this section, we’ll describe a few of the common fabric types you’ll find in common travel backpacks.

Ripstop nylon contains a special, square weave that sets it apart from standard nylon. This weave prevents additional ripping or tearing from occurring after a puncture. It has a very high strength-to-weight ratio and gets that strength from the additional fibers that are sewn into the weave. This type of fabric was first developed as stronger alternative to silk parachutes in World War II. (4)

Cordura® nylon is a popular one that you’ll see in a lot of backpacks today. In fact, Cordura® isn’t its own type of nylon at all. Rather, it is a brand that offers many different types of fabrics. In essence, the Cordura® brand inspects materials from a variety of different mills, picks the ones that are up to their standard, and then puts their ‘Cordura®’ tag on it. They do, however, tend to put that tag on only the highest quality fabrics out there. The other brand name you’ll see attached to nylon is ‘Kodra’, which is essentially the same thing as Cordura®, but it is made in Korea.

Polyester is another fabric often used in backpack design. It is made from plastic fibers that tend not to be the best choice for a travel pack. When it comes to travel packs, you’ll often see ‘ripstop polyester’ which, like ripstop nylon, is made with a special weave that makes it much stronger and more durable than standard polyester. While packs that use polyester can be more budget-friendly, they won’t stand up to the heavy abuse that can come with traveling.

Canvas can be viewed as one of the original backpack materials, along with leather. Aside from burlap, canvas was the go-to material for all of the early backpacks and cargo bags. Canvas is very thick and sturdy. Historically, canvas was stitched together using cotton, linen, or hemp before being coated in wax for waterproofing.

Today’s canvas options are more typically made with nylon and polyester and canvas is much less common than it used to be. That decrease in popularity can be attributed to the fact that canvas is heavier, more easily damaged by abrasion, and less water-resistant than other modern materials.

Straps

Shoulder straps will be largely responsible for the comfort of your travel backpack. The type of straps that work for you will depend on your unique body type. Even when your pack isn’t completely full, it can be uncomfortable to carry if the straps don’t match your body. For some people thinner straps may be more comfortable than their bulkier counterparts, but typically this is only the case if those straps are also highly padded.

There are some packs that offer swivel straps for increased adjustability across varying shoulder widths. This type of strap also makes it much easier to turn the pack around to access its contents when needed. Curved straps (as opposed to straight straps) also tend to work better for women or men with larger chests.

Finally, if weight is your primary concern, make sure to look for a pack with load lifters. These are adjusters that are located at the top of the straps where they attach to the body of the backpack. These adjusters give you the ability to change how the pack’s weight sits on your back. In doing so, they make a pack much more adjustable to a wide variety of body types.

Zippers

Zippers are the most common weak point in packs that claim to be weatherproof or water-resistant. The best type of zipper on the market today is a YKK zipper. They are very strong and come in different weights according to the specific area on the pack where they’ll be applied. (5) YKK manufactures their zippers in-house, including smelting their own brass and forging their own zipper teeth. Choosing a pack with YKK zippers will help you ensure that you won’t suffer broken zippers while traveling.

Top-Loading vs. Panel-Loading

Top-loading packs are those that offer one opening (at the top!) for loading and unloading gear. Panel-loading packs offer a larger zippered pocket that allows you to lay the pack flat and have greater access to its contents, almost like a regular suitcase.

While top-loading packs are still the preferred variety for long, multi-day treks and other outdoor activities, traveling is so much simpler with a panel-loading pack. It allows you to worry less about the specific order in which you pack your belongings and gives you easy access to that swimsuit buried in your pack when you receive a last-minute invitation to go surfing!

Compression

Because we’re talking about travel backpacks, versatility is the name of the game. A quality travel backpack can handle a variety of environments and travel experiences while adapting to your needs in each scenario. Compression is one of the ways in which travel backpacks showcase their versatility.

Proper compression allows you to hunker the weight of your pack down even when it’s not completely full. This means that things won’t feel like they’re rattling around back there when you’re walking or running to catch a train. Another benefits of compression straps is that they also allow you to secure additional items to the pack’s exterior if it’s already full.

Security Features

Security is crucial when traveling, especially if you’re constantly exploring new and unfamiliar environments. You should feel comfortable knowing that your belongings are safe and sound when you leave them behind at the hostel for a grocery run, for example. Having a travel backpack with lockable zippers is a great way to ensure your belongings are always safe and secure.

RFID blockers are another interesting feature growing in popularity for international travel. These will keep unsavory characters from scanning your passport or other sensitive documents as you pass them by. Some backpack designers have begun incorporating stronger materials to reduce this possibility and to make it harder for thieves to ‘slash-and-grab’ items from your pack.

The former is probably the more common occurrence, so if you have to pick one over the other, look for a pack that uses stronger fabrics, such as Cordura®, before you start worrying too much about the world of RFID technology.

Frequently Asked Questions

There are always a number of logistics to align when traveling, whether it’s for business or personal reasons. In this list of Frequently Asked Questions, we’ll answer some of the most common concerns about travel backpacks so that you can turn your attention to the rest of the logistics for your trip.

What is the maximum backpack size for carry-on luggage?

While we wish there was one standard answer to this question, it’s important to remember that every airline has slightly different rules concerning carry-on size limits (6). Speaking very generally, the maximum backpack size for carry-on luggage is about 45 liters. The good news about backpacks, when compared with other luggage types, is that the sides are compressible to make squeezing them down to the prescribed dimensions a bit easier.

Why travel with a backpack? 

Backpacks make it so much easier to navigate new environments. Suitcases are much more difficult to store in buses, under seats, and so on and so forth. Suitcases with wheels don’t roll very well on dirt or cobblestone roads, and carrying them over a distance is uncomfortable and tiresome. For today’s adventure and business travelers, a quality backpacks beats all other options.

Are any of these backpacks 100% waterproof?

While many of these packs are water-resistant or have been thoroughly weatherproofed, you’d be hard pressed to find a travel backpack that is truly 100% waterproof. Many will hold up just fine in a 20-minute tropical downpour (and keep your belongings dry throughout), getting your pack to be 100% waterproof requires buying an external rain cover and putting it on before heading out.

What is bluesign® approved fabric?

You may see some brands advertise the bluesign® approval. This is a standard that is largely considered to be the strictest in regards to environmental protection, workplace safety, and consumer protection. Seeing a product with this label means that all the materials used in that product have gone through a rigorous testing process and met the criteria and limits of the BSSL restricted substances list (7).

Summary

There’s really no limit to how far you can travel with the right pack on your back. The benefits of having just one travel backpack to worry about are numerous, and travelers will surely enjoy the ability to get around easily with all that they need securely on their backs. We hope you’ve enjoyed this collection of the top ten travel backpacks and we wish you the best of luck selecting the right pack for your next adventure. 

Via https://bestsurvival.org/best-travel-backpack/

source http://bestsurvivalus.weebly.com/blog/ranking-the-10-best-travel-backpacks-of-2019

[rayanrooke]

Ranking The 10 Best Backpacking Tents of 2019

Your backpacking tent is your home away from home on the trail. It should make you feel safe and comfortable and it should be easy to set up. When you encounter inclement weather in the backcountry, you’ll want a quality backpacking tent that keeps you warm, dry, and safe from the elements.

Our list of the Top Ten Backpacking Tents includes great options from the industry’s leading brands, as well as budget-friendly selections perfect for anyone just getting into backpacking. Be sure to also read through our Buyer’s Guide for a thorough breakdown of all the criteria you need to consider to help you select the best backpacking tent for your needs.

1. ALPS Mountaineering Lynx

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This freestanding, lightweight tent is ideal for solo getaways. The tent body quickly attaches to aluminum poles using quick pole clips to make assembly a breeze. Extra-large (#8) (1) zippers on the door and vestibule of the tent are easy to use and durable enough to handle abuse.

The ALPS Mountaineering Lynx is a 1-person tent with mesh walls for increased ventilation. This backpacking tent also features a 75-denier polyester rain fly that resists UV damage and factory sealed seams for superior weather protection.

2. Sierra Designs Clip Flashlight 2

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The Sierra Designs Clip Flashlight 2 is a three-season backpacking tent that offers generous living space. It offers a fast and easy two-pole set up to make putting it up a breeze in the event of inclement weather or another dire need.

This backpacking tent contains a full mesh body for better ventilation and a large, full coverage vestibule. Additionally, this non-freestanding tent features a D-shaped door, removable rain fly, interior mesh pockets, and reflective guy lines and guy out loops to make it easy to find after you’ve popped out to relieve yourself in the middle of the night.

3. Black Diamond Beta Light Tent

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The unique design of this tent is particularly suited to the ultralight, all-season mountaineer. The Black Diamond Beta Light Tent is a two-person, floorless shelter that folds into a compact package and weight very little.

This backpacking tent is a full-coverage, SilNylon-shaped tarp that sets up easily with your trekking poles. It withstands wind, rain, and snow and can be paired with the optional Bug Net and floor for a complete structure. Ideal for the ultralight backpacker, this tent also includes reflective line and line tighteners for additional stability on windy evenings.

4. Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2

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Great for the backpacking couple, this two-person backpacking tent is designed with a 4-way, high volume hub that increases its strength by 25% and overall volume by 20% (when compared to previous models of the Copper Spur). The tent body is made of proprietary patterned, breathable rip-stop nylon and polyester mesh.

The Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2 has a fly and floor that are both made of silicone treated rip-stop nylon that is finished with a 1200-millimeter waterproof polyurethane coating. In addition, they feature a unique weave that is constructed with high tenacity yarn and a high filament count. This unique weave serves to increase tear strength by 25% and improve water resistance, all while decreasing the overall weight of the material.

5. Nemo Hornet

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Designed for the lightest of ultralight backpackers, the Nemo Hornet is one of the lightest tents on the market. With a total weight of just 2 pounds, this tent still delivers the durability, packability, and stellar weather protection that ultralight backpackers and thru-hikers need.

This backpacking tent offers true tub floor construction, which reduces seam construction and seam tape. This effectively creates a more durable waterproof floor and this tent also boasts a 1200-millimeter nylon ripstop fly that has been carefully optimized for increased ventilation and superior rain coverage.

6. MSR Hubba Hubba NX

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This lightweight, freestanding design creates excellent living accommodations for solo backpackers that require a true, 3-season backpacking tent. The tent body is constructed from 40-denier ripstop nylon and 15-denier nylon mesh.

The MSR Hubba Hubba NX offers a unified hub-and-pole system with color-coded clips for simple, quick setup. This tent boasts plenty of head and elbow room throughout, as well as a large, side-entry vestibule for storing shoes and gear. Lastly, this tent features a StayDry (2) door with built-in rain gutter and an adaptable, cross-ventilating rainfly.

7. The North Face Summit Series Assault 2

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The North Face Summit Series Assault 2 is a true expedition-style backpacking tent designed for high-altitude camps. It offers both superior breathability and stability against the elements and comes with a total floor area of 27.3 square feet.

This backpacking tent used a pole-supported ventilation system. When wind strikes the tent’s broadside, it backfills the tent’s interior and equalizes the pressure to create an overall stronger structure. This tent is constructed with nylon ripstop, nylon mesh, polyester ripstop, and nylon. It also features a removable vestibule, ample stabs for hanging items, an easy-pitch X-tent design, and DAC (3) stakes.

8. Marmot Limelight

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The Marmot Limelight is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a truly luxurious sleeping experience in the backcountry. Perfect for backpacking tandems that like to bring their pets along on the trail, this three-person tent is lightweight and easy to set up while offering a large enough footprint to sleep everyone comfortably.

This backpacking tent boasts a D-shaped door that allows no-step entry and exit, which is great for keeping your sleeping gear dirt and dust-free. It also boasts color-coded webbing and poles to ease the setup process. Finally, this tent features a roomy vestibule with plenty of space to keep your gear dry in wet weather.

9. Kelty Salida

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Great for anyone looking for a budget-friendly, all-around backpacking tent, this two-person selection from Kelty offers a spacious interior for a comfortable backcountry escape. This three-season tent also boasts a total of 10 square feet of vestibule space for your gear and shoes.

The Kelty Salida backpacking tent’s walls are made of 68-denier polyester and 48-denier No-See-Um mesh. The tent’s floor is constructed with 1800-millimeter, 68-denier nylon. The freestanding tent offers fully seam taped construction and has a total floor area of 30.5 square feet. Finally, this tent features a number of internal storage pockets and comes in a roll top cube carry bag.

10. ALPS Mountaineering Zephyr

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This two-person backpacking tent offers a freestanding, aluminum two-pole design that can be set up quickly and easily. It’s the perfect tent for a couple that likes to spend more time exploring than they do making camp in the evenings.

The Zephyr’s polyester rain fly resists both water and UV damage and offers two vestibules for true “His” and “Hers” compatibility. This tent is also great for backpacking in hotter climates, as it contains two mesh doors and entire mesh walls. In addition, this tent features aluminum stakes and guy ropes, a useful gear loft for headlamps and other essentials, and internal mesh storage pockets.

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Buyer’s Guide

Selecting the right backpacking tent requires you to be honest about how you plan to use it. Knowing the kinds of trips you plan to take, and in what environments those trips will most likely occur, will help you narrow down your choices.

That said, a more intricate understanding of how backpacking tents differ in size, shape, and performance is also extremely useful. In this Buyer’s Guide, we will focus on the more important information you need to know to help you make the best selection possible.

Freestanding vs. Non-Freestanding

Freestanding tents will remain upright whether you stake them down or not. This makes them much easier to pitch and then move around camp until you find a flat spot that suits your liking. It’s important to remember that all tents should be staked down to prevent them from blowing away (and also to maximize their performance), but freestanding tents, in general, have a more rigid, fixed structure without the use of stakes.

Non-freestanding tents, as you might guess, require stakes to hold their structure. This makes pitching them in sand, snow, or on rocky surfaces a bit more difficult. It’s not impossible, however, and non-freestanding tents are also lighter and more compact than their freestanding counterparts, in general.

Shapes

Tents come in many shapes and sizes. In this Buyer’s Guide, we are going to talk about six distinct tent shapes, and dive into the pros and cons of each. Those shapes are A-frame, modified A-frame, dome, hoop/tunnel, pyramid/teepee, and wedge.

A-frame tents are the simplest setup and, as such, they are the lightest and least expensive of the bunch. They feature sloping wall, which does limit head and elbowroom. As a result of the broad sides that are characteristic of A-frame tents, they tend to be more susceptible to high winds, making them a better selection for mild conditions.

The modified A-frame utilizes a hoop (or “ridgeline”) pole to create curvature in the exterior walls. In doing so, they offer more interior space and improved structural stability when compared to traditional A-frame tents.

Dome tents are arguably the most common design. Because of this, they come in many shapes, sizes, and pole configurations. Arched ceilings are the giveaway characteristic of all domed tents, and this design offers good interior space and stability when the winds pick up.

Hoop/tunnel tents (also known as “tube tents”) are generally lightweight and resistant to heavy weather. Unlike most dome tents, however, hoop tents are not freestanding, which means they require proper staking if you’re going to achieve the intended shape.

Pyramid, or teepee, tents are constructed using a rainfly that is supported by a vertical center pole. The rainfly is then staked out to form the pyramid shape. In terms of space-to-weight ratio, these tents perform at the top of the pack. That said, their floorless design makes them a non-starter for wet conditions.

Finally, wedge tents are typically higher at the head end and then sloped down towards the feet. This design makes them more aerodynamic in windy conditions, as long as you pitch them with the low end into the wind. Headroom, however, is significantly less in a wedge-style tent.

Floor Space

Square footage is the easiest way to know if a backpacking tent is going to have enough room for you, your partner, your pets, and anything else you want to keep safe overnight. That said, you should also make sure to check out the exact dimensions of each tent you’re considering.

Taller hikers, for example, should make sure the tent has enough length to stretch out comfortably. Conversely, those of us with stouter builds want to make sure our tent has enough elbowroom so that we’re not whacking our partner every time you turn over at night. 

Headroom

The wall slope of a backpacking tent largely dictates the total headroom inside. If you’ve ever been stuck inside your tent for hours on end while waiting out a storm, you know how important headroom can be. Tents with consistent headroom from end-to-end are obviously going to be best for hosting those foul weather gatherings. Sloped designs, while being better for ultralight backpackers, rarely offer enough headroom for one person to sit up comfortably, let alone multiple.

Doors

There are basically two types of tents when we talk about doors. There are those with one door and those with two. Tents with a single door tend to be lighter than double-door tents, but their drawback is that one person will inevitably end up climbing over the other to get out in the middle of the night.

Two-door (or ‘double-door’) tents can significantly increase the “livability” factor of your outdoor experience. Each person has his or her own entry/exit, as well as a place to store gear that is protected by its own vestibule.

Pole Material

When looking at the material used to construct tent poles, you’ll usually find manufacturers have used one of three common materials: fiberglass, aluminum, or carbon fiber. There are pros and cons to each, which we’ll go over quickly here.

Fiberglass is typically used in less expensive, lighter duty tents. When compared to the other two materials, fiberglass is cheaper, but also heavier and significantly less durable. Aluminum, on the other hand, is used in a vast majority of solid backpacking tents because it is strong, light, and easy to replace. Carbon fiber is utilized on the high-end tents that are super-light and still super-strong. The downfalls of carbon fiber are that it tends to be more expensive and also less durable than aluminum.

Pole Connections 

Pole connections refer to the manner in which your tent poles connect to the tent body. There are two main types of pole connections: sleeves and clips. Again, let’s examine the pros and cons of each.

Sleeves are sewn onto the body of the tent. Poles are then fed through the sleeves along the tent body and attached (or otherwise connected) to the tent’s corners. This creates a solid structure that’s great for handling wind. That said, sleeves tend to make the set up more difficult (remember poles getting disconnected mid-sleeve when you were setting up tents as a kid?) and also reduces airflow between the tent body and the rainfly. As a result, condensation can become an issue without proper ventilation.

Clips are also sewn onto the tent body, but they are lighter plastic clips that hook onto the tent poles to make construction a very quick and easy process. In turn, this design increases airflow to the interior of the tent, reducing the likelihood of condensation. The only downfall, however, of the clip design is that tents that utilize it can be less stable in high winds.

Wall Construction

Most of the tents we’ve mentioned use double-wall construction, but some (like the Black Diamond Beta Light) are known as single-wall tents. There are advantages and disadvantages to both construction types, so let’s look at them.

Double-wall tents are much more common and you’re probably familiar with their setup already. They use an inner canopy (the tent floor and body) and a rainfly. The inner canopy provides the enclosed structure to sleep in (and can be all that’s necessary on warm, dry nights) while the rainfly keeps water out. Tents that use double-wall construction are generally less expensive, drier in wet conditions, and provide better ventilation.

Single-wall tents use just one layer of waterproof and breathable fabric to protect you from the exterior elements. This makes them lighter and, generally, easier to set up. Condensation, however, can be a problem with this type of construction if the tent isn’t properly vented. Some single-wall tents feature a hybrid design that uses a partial rainfly (usually over the door) to reduce condensation.

Vestibules

A vestibule is the entryway of your tent. It’s the perfect place to store dry, dirty gear without tracking it inside your tent and onto your sleeping gear. This is where your boots come off before you enter, as well as where your pack can live overnight. While most vestibules don’t have a floor, they are covered, which is essential for any true three-season backpacking tent.

When considering vestibule design, there are a couple things to keep in mind. First, make sure the vestibule will provide ample room for you and your gear. Ideally, your vestibule should have enough room for you to cook underneath on a particularly wet day.

Also, make sure to inspect the drip line of your vestibule. If you decide to open it to allow additional airflow into your tent, make sure any moisture that has accumulated on the rainfly isn’t going to drip directly into your tent.

Frequently Asked Questions

New tent designs are released annually and even the most seasoned backpackers must make sure they are up-to-date with the latest recommendations on buying, cleaning, and caring for a quality backpacking tent. This section will answer some of the most Frequently Asked Questions about backpacking tents.

What is a tent footprint?

A tent footprint is a ground cloth that is placed on the ground prior to setting up the tent body. The tent body is then placed on top of it. This reduces wear and tear on the floor of the tent itself, especially in sandy or rocky environments. The idea is that it’s much easier and cheaper to replace a footprint than it is to replace an entire tent.

What does my tent have condensation building up inside of it?

Condensation happens when humid air hits a colder surface. In the case of your tent, the humid air is most likely coming from your own exhalation and that colder surface is typically the interior walls or roof. This happens when your tent is lacking proper ventilation. A couple of ways to avoid this condensation is to roll back the tent’s rainfly and place any wet clothes or shoes outside before you go to bed at night. There are many more potential causes for tent condensation as well (4).

What if my rainfly is wet in the morning?

In all actuality, you’ll probably find that this is the case more often than not when backpacking. Just remove the fly first thing when you wake up and let it dry in the morning sun as you prepare breakfast and get ready for the day. You can also simply un-stake the entire tent and re-position it to be in the sun. If you don’t have time to thoroughly dry the fly before hitting the trail, just pack it up somewhere handy so that you can take it out to dry it further during a long lunch break or first thing when you get into camp in the evening.

What is seam sealing? 

Seam sealing is usually done with a liquid urethane that is applied to any affected seams. In general, when stitching joins two waterproof materials, there will be thousands of tiny holes that water can flow through. Seam sealing prevents this but is only absolutely necessary for any exposed seams that will not be adequately covered by the tent’s rainfly.

Summary

Whether you’re just going out for an overnighter or heading out to hike the length of the PCT, you have to be comfortable setting up, breaking down, and sleeping in your backpacking tent. This article is designed to give you all the information you need to select the right backpacking tent for your needs. We hope you’ve enjoyed the information presented above, and we wish you all the best in your selection process. Happy trails!

Via https://bestsurvival.org/best-backpacking-tent/

source http://bestsurvivalus.weebly.com/blog/ranking-the-10-best-backpacking-tents-of-2019

[rayanrooke]

Ranking The 10 Best Tactical Boots of 2019

Tactical boots are sturdier and more resilient than more standard hiking boots. They’re designed for everything from long hunts in thick country to tactical combat. Even if you don’t necessarily need them for military use, a solid pair of tactical boots is the best way to protect your feet from the harshest of elements.

Our list of the Top Ten Tactical Boots details the features and craftsmanship of the best boots on the market today. Be sure to read on through our Buyer’s Guide for information that will help you select the perfect pair of boots for your needs. Also, our Frequently Asked Questions section addresses some of the more common concerns about selecting, breaking in, and maintaining a pair of tactical boots.

1. 5.11 ATAC Storm

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The ATAC Storm from 5.11 has been specifically engineered to provide excellent performance in a broad range of operational environments. It’s a comfortable, durable, and useful tactical boot with a clean, professional profile.

This tactical boot is constructed using leather and Cordura nylon fabric. The 1200-denier Cordura Nylon is used in the boot’s side panels. They also feature triple stitching, prone position grip, antibacterial Drilex lining, and a hidden side pocket.

2. Bates Ultra-Lites

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A variety of uniformed personnel has trusted these Bates Ultra-Lites for more than 15 years. Designed to strict Law Enforcement code, these boots built for urban environments with quality leather, 1680-denier ballistic nylon, a flexible athletic construction, and classic styling.

These tactical boots offer a durable and slip-resistant rubber outsole with a cushioned, removable insert. They also boast a side zipper, safety toe, moisture-wicking mesh lining, and a padded tongue and collar for a more comfortable fit.

3. Maelstrom Tac Force

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The TAC Force boot is widely trusted by law enforcement, security, and industrial professionals, as well as outdoor enthusiasts. Polishable, full-grain leather and a nylon upper section give these tactical boots a professional look and a comfortable feel. The feature a durable rubber outsole that provides maximum grip on varied terrain, as well as a removable, shock-absorbent cushion insert to guarantee all-day comfort.

Best of all, Maelstrom donates a dollar from every boot they sell to the Boot Campaign, which is a non-profit organization that provides life-improving programs for veterans and military families nationwide.

4. Under Armour Stellar

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This is a lightweight boot with a quick-dry, minimalist design. It’s a solid all-purpose tactical boot constructed with durable water repellent treated leather and 900-denier nylon textile upper. The boots boast a rubber sole and polishable toe.

The Under Armour Stellar tactical boots also include anti-odor technology applied to a molded Ortholite (1) sock liner. This liner helps to prevent the growth of odor-causing microbes, which goes a long way when you spend a lot of time in them. They also feature a molded EVA midsole with reinforced TPU shank for added protection and support.

5. Danner Acadia

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Made in the USA, the Danner Acadia tactical boot boasts the famous stitch down construction that Danner is known for. These boots provide excellent traction on wet and dry surfaces through the use of a Vibram Kletterlift outsole, which also guarantees better shock absorption.

These boots are made with a combination of full-grain leather and 1000-denier nylon, as well as a waterproof, breathable Gore-Tex lining. They also feature a sleeker and more slender profile and a narrower fit, so these boots are best for those with a more narrow foot.

6. Garmont T8 Bifida

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Every Garmont product is backed by years of trailside research into what works best and what is most comfortable. These boots are no exception. They are a heavy duty tactical boot designed with cutting edge materials, functional technologies, and unique innovations.

The Garmont T8 Bifida boasts precise fitting for increased comfort and an improved design that enhances flexibility. They feature a suede finish and, like all Garmont footwear, each feature is included to improve stability, eliminate pressure points, and reduce unnecessary weight.

7. Thorogood Jump Boot

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The Thorogood Jump Boot is exactly what you want to have on your feet when responding to an emergency. They are durable, lightweight, and flexible enough to keep up with anything that unfolds on your next shift.

These tactical boots are made with full-grain leather and include a high-shine polishable toecap and an Impact 300 gel heel insert. The boots contain a GENflex2 dual-density rubber outsole with multi-directional traction lugs that increase their resistance on slick surfaces. They also feature a removable, single-density polyurethane footbed with composite shank for added protection and comfort.

8. Under Armour Valsetz RTS

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The Valsetz RTS from Under Armour is crafted using lightweight, durable synthetic leather and an updated textile upper. These boots are supportive, comfortable, and offer excellent traction on a variety of surfaces and in inclement conditions.

These tactical boots feature UA’s ClutchFit ankle support system (2), which contours to your foot and provides additional stability where you need it most. They also feature a welded PU film that surrounded the exterior of the boot for increased abrasion resistance. Finally, a molded, antimicrobial Ortholite sock liner helps to keep your feet healthy and your boots smelling fresh.

9. Danner Tachyon

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In designing this boot, Danner took their original boot and stripped it of any extra weight. They did this without neglecting the need for comfort and, of course, performance. While most boots in this weight category offer a composite rubber outsole, these include a true rubber outsole that delivers superior abrasion resistance and traction.

The Danner Tachyon tactical boots include completely synthetic leather upper and an open cell, polyurethane footbed. The shank of these boots is made of nylon and they also boast a removable insole. Lastly, these Danner boots feature their speed lacing and 3-layer comfort systems for a snug, comfortable fit.

10. Magnum Response 2

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These tactical boots will keep you steady on your feet no matter what the job throws at you. They boast an eight-inch leather and nylon upper that guarantees full foot and ankle protection, as well as a flexible support and abrasion resistance.

Getting in and out of the Magnum Response 2 tactical boots is a breeze with front lacing, a side zipper, and a safety Velcro strap. These boots also feature a moisture-wicking liner to keep your feet dry and a lightly padded heel collar and insole to keep you going all day without fatigue.

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Buyer’s Guide

Tactical boots were initially created for the armed forces. Since, their use has expanded to include law enforcement personnel, private security, firefighters, hunters, and even the casual outdoor enthusiast. Some of the earliest tactical boots date back to those used by the Roman military, although they were known as “calcei” (3).

Most tactical boots are going to provide more durability and resistance than hiking or trekking boots, but when comparing tactical boots against one another, there can be a lot that separates a good pair from a great one. In this Buyer’s Guide, we will focus on the most important factors you should consider when selecting a new pair of tactical boots.

Your Needs

Deciding on a pair of tactical boots means first being sure that they are the right kind of boots for you. Sometimes a solid pair of hiking boots will do just fine, but in other cases, nothing short of a durable tactical boot will do the job. There are several reasons why you might need tactical boots.

The first reason is that your ankles or knees are either prone to injury or have been injured in the past. The added support of tactical boots significantly reduces the risk or injuring or re-injuring your ankles or knees while wearing them.

The second reason is if you’ll be carrying loads that are quite heavy for your body type. These loads will take a toll on your whole body, but that load will be felt most in your feet, especially if you don’t have the right pair of boots.

The third reason is if you’re a relatively novice outdoorsman (or woman) and the muscles in your legs require a bit of additional support as you train them up. A final reason is if you’ll primarily be using your boots in areas that are also populated by the types of animals with a bite that you want to be sure can’t penetrate your footwear (i.e. snakes).

Durability of Construction

Leather is the most common material used for tactical boots because of its excellent durability and abrasion resistance. More boots these days also include nylon in their uppers. Rubber, on the other hand, is the most common material used in the outsoles of tactical boots.

In general, boots that contain nylon also usually offer more information about the quality of that nylon. A higher denier count in a fabric means that it tends to be thicker, sturdier, and more durable. In addition, rubber outsoles are used due to their superior ability to grip on a variety of terrain, especially in wet conditions.

Comfort

One of the biggest challenges with a new pair of tactical boots is breaking them in. If you’re buying this type of boot, odds are that you’re planning to wear them for long periods at a time. As such, finding a comfortable boot is of the utmost importance.

When selecting a new pair of tactical boots, be sure to look for options that include a cushioned footbed, removable insole, or some form of molded technology. The first will give you an added cushion if your job involves standing for long periods. The second will give you the opportunity to replace with an insole that fits more comfortably to your liking. And the third ensures that the interior of the boot molds to your unique foot style.

As for the break-in process, boots that are crafted with synthetic materials – such as polyester, nylon, and synthetic leather – generally require less time to break in than full-grain or even split-grain leather boots. They can also be cheaper but may wear out faster, so keep that in mind as well.

Water Resistance

A good pair of tactical boots can withstand any set of elements. Full-grain leather is naturally water-resistant, to an extent. Boots made with full-grain leather will keep your feet dry in light rain, but not through a river crossing. Full-grain leather needs to be sprayed by an additional waterproofing substance for added performance.

Some boots offer a waterproof lining that keeps your foot dry even if the exterior of the boot gets wet. The balance you’ll need to find is between waterproofing and breathability, as boots that cause your feet to sweat excessively can essentially have the same effect as those that don’t keep your feet dry when it rains.

Weight

For a boot that you’ll be moving around in a lot, weight really makes a huge difference. A boot that is too heavy will quite literally weigh you down and cause fatigue to set in that much faster. Weight is the one category that can be really easy to overlook when shopping, but that you’ll definitely notice as soon as you take the boots out to break them in.

If you want a boot that’s going to be comfortable and help you perform, look for something that uses lightweight materials in its construction. The catch here is that you want to walk that fine line between lightweight materials and choosing a boot that’s still durable enough to handle the situations you’ll throw at them.

Laces or Zippers

This is a factor that, in most cases, ultimately comes down to your personal preference. However, your occupation may also dictate which type of securing mechanism you prefer. Those that need to make quick footwear changes in an emergency, such as firefighters, will prefer zippers because they’re easier to handle on-the-fly. Laces, on the contrary, tend to be better for military and law enforcement personnel because they provide more adjustment options and won’t come off once securely tied.

Fit

One of the most common mistakes made by first-time buyers is to choose a boot that’s too tight. We tend to think that a tighter boot means your foot will slide around less, thus resulting in fewer hot spots and blisters.

In reality, we have to account for the fact that our feet swell naturally throughout the day. In addition, additional swelling occurs as a result of the stress we put on our feet through the activities we choose. At the end of a long day, you’ll be happy you chose a pair of tactical boots with a little breathing room.

When trying on a potential new pair of tactical boots, make sure to wear the same type of socks you’d normally wear with such footwear. Sock thickness plays a major role in getting the correct boot fit the first time around. Once you put the boots on, take a second before tightening the laces. You should be able to place your index finger between the back of your leg and the back of the boot with very minimal effort.

Next, pay attention to what happens to your foot when you lace the boots up. In a perfect world, you’ll feel your heel moving toward the back of the boot as you tighten. Now it’s time for the old-fashioned ‘walking test’. As you walk around, make sure your toes aren’t touching the front of the boot at all. If it is, this is a major red flag and you should think about sizing up.

Paying attention to your heel as you walk is also important. Ideally, your heel and the back of the boot should move as one. If they rub against each other, you’ll already know the pain and discomfort this can cause down the road. Take that as a warning sign and walk yourself into another size or model.

Lastly, trying shoes on in the late afternoon is the best way to stimulate the natural swelling that occurs in your feet throughout the day. This will give you the best idea of how your potential new tactical boots will feel after a long, full day of use.

Frequently Asked Questions

Modern tactical boots are tough and rugged, but they’re still only as good as the feet inside of them. This Frequently Asked Questions section will answer several of the more common concerns about selecting, breaking in, and maintaining a pair of tactical boots.

Can you explain ‘denier’?

Denier is a unit of measurement relating to the fiber thickness of individual threads or filaments used in the creation of textiles and fabrics. A higher denier count means the fabric is thicker, sturdier, and more durable. A lower count signifies a fabric that is sheer, soft, and silky.

What is the difference between full-grain and split-grain leather?  

Full-grain leather is also known as just “leather.” It’s the real deal, 100% leather that offers maximum durability. Its downsides are less breathability and a longer break-in period.

Split-grain leather is a combination of leather and nylon that allows for lighter weight boot construction and increased breathability. Boots made with split-grain leather tend to be a little cheaper, but you’ll sacrifice in the areas of water and abrasion resistance compared to full-grain leather boots.

Is there any way to speed up the break-in process with new boots?

Unfortunately, all the best brands in the tactical boot industry stress the importance of taking it slow when breaking in a new pair of boots. That said, there are two generally accepted methods for breaking in a new pair of tactical boots, the wet method and the dry method. The wet method is the quicker of the two, and we’ll take a moment to briefly outline that process.

Start by filling your boots with warm water. Take enough time to make sure they soak through completely. Next place two pairs of socks on your feet. The best types of socks to use are thin, moisture-wicking, non-cotton types. Socks that absorb too much moisture will extend the time it takes for the boots to dry.

Now empty the water from the boots, put them on, and go about your day. Ideally, go for a long walk or hike. You may need to condition your feet to wear wet boots. To do so, take them off every hour, apply rubbing alcohol to your feet, and put on two fresh pairs of socks. The alcohol helps to toughen your skin and prevent fungal infections.

Every time you feel the leather in the boots loosening, stop and re-lace them. Cinch the boots as often as needed, as tighter boots will form to your feet much faster. At the end of your day, place the boots in front of a fan. This serves to dry any remaining moisture without distorting the mold you’ve formed throughout the day. If the boots have insoles, remove them and dry by the fan also.

Repeat this two or three times and you should notice a significantly more comfortable fit.

What’s the best way to clean my boots?

The best method for cleaning will vary somewhat depending on boot construction. Suede, for example, is averse to liquids. Suede boots are more effectively cleaned using a suede or metal-bristle brush. In conjunction, you can use a damp, soapy cloth to clean the inside of suede boots.

Full-grain leather boots can be cleaned with a regular application of water-based detergent. For a more thorough cleaning, try rubbing saddle soap into the leather with a wet cloth until lather forms. Continue to rub the lather into the boots thoroughly before wiping it off with a clean, damp rag. Finally, let the boots dry and buff them with a soft polishing cloth. The saddle soap serves to ride boots of any accumulated dirt and debris while also setting a nice base for a new coat of polish.

Summary

It’s a really great feeling to know that your feet are secure and protected against the elements. A good pair of tactical boots will give you the sense of a secure foundation that you need to focus on the greater tasks at hand. We hope you’ve enjoyed this list of the best tactical boots and we wish you the best of luck selecting the best pair of boots for your needs!

Via https://bestsurvival.org/best-tactical-boots/

source http://bestsurvivalus.weebly.com/blog/ranking-the-10-best-tactical-boots-of-2019

[rayanrooke]

Ranking The 10 Best Winter Gloves of 2018

Cold hands are sure to derail even the brightest of winter days. If you plan to spend a lot of time outside this winter, you’re going to need a quality pair of winter gloves to bring along. Whether you’re an avid backcountry skier or you prefer the winter season for your hunting expeditions, keeping your hands warm and healthy is critical to a winter season well spent.

Our list of the Top Ten Winter Gloves will give you plenty of options to keep your hands warm and dry this winter. Also, be sure to check out our Buyer’s Guide section for all the critical factors to consider when choosing new winter gloves.

1. Dakine Nova

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These Dakine Nova short winter gloves are designed with a DK Dry waterproof insert and a combination nylon/polyester shell that’s finished with a durable water repellent (DWR) treatment. They are a great glove for a variety of winter activities, such as backcountry skiing and snowboarding, snowshoeing, and more.

These winter gloves boast high-loft synthetic insulation and a 150-gram tricot (1) lining. The palm is also made of durable water repellent leather, so your hands stay warm and dry in even the wettest of winter weather.

2. OZERO Thermal

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These winter gloves are made of genuine deerskin suede leather and thermal polar fleece. Their design makes them perfect for winter sports and those often uncomfortable but absolutely necessary chores during the year’s coldest season.

The OZERO Thermal gloves use a Heatlok high-tech air system with hollow fibers and microfiber that combine to provide warmth and breathability without excess bulk or a loss of dexterity. These gloves trap your body heat to create a thermal barrier that acts in conjunction with the polar fleece to keep your hands warm in temperatures as low as -30° Fahrenheit.

3. Helly Hansen VOR

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With shell and palm composed entirely of Grade A goatskin leather, the Helly Hansen VOR winter gloves offer a classic work glove design with a rodeo styling. They are an excellent choice for all winter experiences from work to fun.

These gloves have sock cuffs with cinch straps to keep them secure throughout your day. The goatskin used in these gloves is water repellent and they include an anti-pilling micro fleece to keep your hands warm, dry, and comfortable.

4. Hestra CZone Contact

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The Hestra CZone Contact is a true multi-purpose outdoor glove made for cold weather and unexpected weather changes. The glove’s Contact-membrane makes them waterproof and breathable while maintaining a precise, close grip.

These winter gloves are made of Hestra flexon 4-way stretch synthetic material. This material is windproof, waterproof, and highly breathable for warmth and comfort. Additionally, these gloves boast a reinforced palm and a silicon grip print for increased functionality.

5. Outdoor Research Alti

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This expedition glove has improved ergonomics and dexterity as a product of Outdoor Research’s revolutionary 3Dfit technology (2). With added PrimaLoft® hi insulation in the shell, these gloves also offer added warmth for all your favorite winter activities.

The Outdoor Research Alti winter gloves are made of a combination of 90% nylon and 10% spandex. They are waterproof, breathable, and windproof gloves that also feature an upgraded liner for better moisture management. These gloves also come with an Alpen grip palm.

6. Smartwool Ridgeway

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These multi-purpose leather gloves boast a double layered thumb and forefinger for added reinforcement while shoveling or when gripping ski poles. These gloves will serve all your needs through anything a long winter season throws at them.

The Smartwool Ridgeway winter gloves boast a terry loop knit interior lining to increase warmth and add comfort. The exterior of these gloves is 100% leather while the interior is 70% wool and 30% nylon. In addition, these winter gloves feature the high-quality Merino wool that the Smartwool brand is known for.

7. North Face Denali Etip

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These are the ultimate UIR powered soft-shell winter gloves. They’ll keep your hands warm while still allowing ample functionality, including in the operation of all your touchscreen devices. These gloves also take care of your hands using radiometric articulation, which keeps your hands in their most natural, relaxed position.

The North Face Denali Etip winter gloves feature a silicone gripper palm that provides superior grip in cold, wet conditions. The soft shell on the back of these gloves blocks wind and moisture and keeps your hands warm and dry. These gloves are made from 93% polyester material and 7% elastane double-knit fleece that features four-way stretch capability. Finally, North Face’s 5-dimensional fit ensures consistent sizing across a wide variety of hand types.

8. Ironclad Ranchworx

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The Ironclad Ranchworx winter gloves have to be included in any conversation about the best winter gloves for work purposes. These gloves are made entirely of machine-washable, genuine Bullwhip leather that won’t dry out or shrink when wet. To protect your hands, these gloves include Kevlar reinforcements in critical areas for maximum durability.

These winter gloves also feature patented roll tip fingertips that provide double-layer protection while ensuring improved dexterity. Added Exo-Guard protection keeps your knuckles safe from scrapes and cuts while the added terry cloth sweat wipe on the back of the thumb helps you wipe sweat from your brow even when it’s cold enough to see your breath.

9. Rigwarl Cold Weather

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These winter gloves are the four-season motorcyclist’s dream. They are made of reinforced leather to protect your fingers and their water-resistant shell makes them both windproof and waterproof. An improved fleece liner also keeps your hands warm even if you’re riding through snow and rain.

The Rigwarl Cold Weather winter gloves are designed with touchscreen-compatible fingers so that you can make calls or update your GPS without exposing your hands to the elements. They also feature a reinforced leather grip palm to protect your hands as they grip your bike to steer through cold winter weather.

10. Carhartt WB

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The Carhartt WV winter gloves are designed to keep the most important tools of all protected against the winter elements. Your hands will love the ultra-soft insulation and Fast Dry technology that wicks away sweat when work heats up.

These winter gloves are made of 100% polyester. The shell is a durable, all-purpose polytex with softshell trim and a reinforced PU (3) palm. These gloves boast Storm Defender waterproof breathable protection and a windproof insert to keep your hands warm and dry in even the wettest of work conditions.

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Buyer’s Guide

The history of gloves is an interesting one and dates back as far as 1,400 years B.C., to a pair of linen gloves found in the tomb of King Tutankhamen. The word ‘glove’ is closely related to the Old Norse word ‘glofi’, which could suggest that gloves were utilized by the Viking warriors of early Scandinavia. (4) Interestingly, leather has most likely been a common material used in the making of gloves for thousands of years.

Today’s materials are much more sophisticated and suited to precise conditions. But with the invention of improved materials and the subsequent explosion in glove options, there are a few critical elements that separate quality winter gloves from their more ‘run-of-the-mill’ counterparts. To aid in your selection, this Buyer’s Guide will focus on these elements.

Sizing

Getting the right size glove is imperative to maximizing its effectiveness. A glove that’s too big won’t hold in as much heat and, therefore, won’t keep your hands as warm as they should. A glove that’s too small, well, we all know that just won’t do.

When considering the sizing options of your top glove selections, the two major measurements you’ll have to consider are hand width and hand length. Hand width is a measurement of the full circumference of your hand around the widest part of your knuckles, but not including your thumb. Hand length is measured from the tip of the middle finger straight down to the large crease where your palm meets your wrist.

These two measurements will be the most effective at helping you choose from the small, medium, large, etc. sizes offered by the top gloves you’re considering. If you fall somewhat between sizes, keep in mind that tighter is generally always better. As we mentioned above, extra space inside your gloves will lead to added heat loss.

That said, you don’t want to buy a glove that’s so small you end up straining the material. This will not only be uncomfortable, but it will also greatly increase the stress on the glove’s seams and, over time, it will be more likely to rip or tear. You’ll also want a glove that’s long enough to tuck completely into your coat sleeves so that you keep your wrists warm.

Insulation

Before we get into the different types of insulation, it’s important to understand how different body types have different needs. On average, men generate more heat than women. This is generally true for people in their 20s to 40s versus folks over fifty. This is important to your glove choice because choosing a glove that has too much insulation can lead to excessive sweating, which is just as risky as having gloves with improper insulation. Considering your gender, age, average activity level, and basal metabolic rate (BMR) (5) will help you make a better glove choice in the long run.

Now, let’s move on to the different types of insulation most common in winter gloves. They are down insulation and synthetic insulation. Down is an excellent insulator that is highly valued for its light weight, its durability and breathability, and its ability to be easily compressed. Although down is generally more expensive than synthetic insulation, it tends to last longer and hold it value over that time.

Down does require protection from the elements by an outer, waterproof shell, which makes it a great choice for gloves that will be used for activities like skiing and snowboarding, primarily in cold, dry climates.

In addition to being cheaper than down, synthetic insulation retain its ability to insulate when wet and also dries much faster than down. This makes it the ideal choice for winter activities that take place in predominantly damp climates. The drawbacks of synthetic insulation are: less warmth for its weight, increased bulk, and a reduction in insulation power each time it is compressed. That said, the most common gloves used for downhill and cross-country skiing utilize synthetic insulation.

When you begin to look into these winter gloves, you’ll find that there is a lot of proprietary synthetics used to insulate gloves from different brands. The one thing that you should keep in mind is that you should never buy a winter glove that relies solely on cotton as an insulating material. When cotton gets wet, it stays wet, and it also stays cold. Avoiding cotton will help you choose a better quality insulator for your winter gloves.

Finally, when you dig into insulation for winter gloves, you’ll find that it is usually measured in grams. This will lead to the question of how much “weight” is recommended for different environments. If you’ll primarily be using your gloves in temperatures at or above 20° Fahrenheit, it’s recommended to have gloves with 80 to 100 grams of insulation.

If you’ll be spending your winter outside in temperatures below 20° Fahrenheit, look for gloves with 100 to 200 grams of insulation. Finally, for your Arctic adventures, search for winter gloves with 200 to 400 grams of insulation.

Waterproofing

The intent of waterproofing winter gloves is to prevent exterior moisture from entering the glove while still allowing water vapor from sweat to vent properly. This is a tricky balance, which is why it’s hard to find a truly 100% waterproof glove that will keep your hands completely dry in even the wettest, coldest conditions. The key is having gloves that will still keep your hands warm even if they do get wet.

In general, there are three ways that glove manufacturers attempt to add waterproofing to their winter gloves. The first is by including a waterproof membrane that is laminated to the exterior fabric of the glove. The second is by placing a waterproof insert between the glove’s outer shell and its interior insulation. The last is by applying a waterproof coating to the glove’s exterior fabric.

One of the most popular waterproofing technologies out there is known as Gore-Tex®. Many glove makers have emulated Gore-Tex using their own proprietary technologies. When choosing winter gloves, take some time to research these proprietary technologies a bit further to ensure that the gloves you choose have the best shot at keeping your hands dry. Dry hands are much more likely to remain warm.

Touch-Screen Compatibility

Winter adventures produce some of the most epic and breathtaking scenery. When you’re standing at the top of a ski run and you want to snap a quick photo before carving turns, taking your gloves off to do so is the last thing you want. That’s why choosing gloves with touch-screen compatibility is a great consideration if winter photography is your priority.

If you need something with a little more weight and insulation than you can find in gloves with touch-screen compatibility, you can also consider buying glove liners that allow touch-screen operation. This way you can slip your heavy gloves off and operate your devices without completely exposing your hands to the elements.

Some Added Bonuses

In addition to the critical elements mentioned above, there are a number of additional features that add value to a good pair of winter gloves. Leather palms, for example, are essential if you’ll be using your gloves primarily for work purposes. Leather provides excellent grip and is also much more durable than common synthetics

Wrist cinches can also be an essential inclusion if you plan on using your winter gloves for skiing or snowboarding. There’s nothing worse than dropping your brand new pair of gloves off the ski lift and these cinches will help you keep your gloves ‘handy’ while you shuffle your iPod or check your phone.

In addition, many winter gloves offer a softer material on the thumb. This area is designed to help you clean glasses, goggles, or simply wipe your nose when the cold is really getting to you. This is a great way to keep glasses, goggles, or your face clean without carrying around a handkerchief all winter.

Lastly, some gloves come with zippered pockets that are typically located on the back of the hand. These pockets serve as a place to fit disposable hand warmer packets on the coldest of days. As an added benefit, they also serve as added ventilation during your warmer spring skiing days.

Frequently Asked Questions

The need for a quality pair of winter gloves is undeniable. If you still have questions about selecting the best pair of gloves to suit your needs, however, this section will attempt to answer some of the more common concerns about winter gloves.

What are the pros/cons of mittens versus gloves?

The main benefit of mittens is that they can actually keep your hands warmer than gloves. By keeping your fingers together in one ‘compartment’ instead of separating them by fabric, mittens help your hands retain heat better than gloves.

The downside, however, is that mittens come with severely restricted dexterity. This is why their use is typically restricted to skiing and snowboarding. If you need to do anything precise with your hands during the winter, mittens probably aren’t the best choice.

What about heated gloves?

Heated gloves typically feature battery-powered heating systems to provide added warmth on the coldest days. Some have different levels of heat output, but most run on rechargeable lithium-ion batteries. While they can keep your hands warmer, the batteries and heating technology make them heavier, bulkier, and much more expensive ($200+) than their non-heated counterparts. Another drawback is that you can’t use these gloves in even the slightest of rains without risking damage to the technological components.

Why goatskin leather versus cowhide?

For starters, goatskin leather is stronger and more durable than cowhide. It is also naturally water-resistant. Finally, goatskin leather is softer and lighter than cowhide, making it an ideal material for comfortable winter gloves.

Are all winter gloves machine-washable?

Generally, you should consult the manufacturer’s recommendation before washing your winter gloves in a machine. Washing them improperly can cause a significant decrease in their waterproof ability. A good rule of thumb is to hand wash any winter gloves that don’t specifically state they are ‘machine-washable’. If they do say they can be washed in the machine, however, it is still recommended to wash them on a delicate or low setting, and in cold water.

What’s the best way to dry my winter gloves?

Like the best washing technique, this will ultimately depend on the manufacturer’s recommendation. In general, though, it is advised to avoid putting your winter gloves through the dryer. The best way to dry them is simply by laying them out our hanging them by the fire, just not too close.

Can you waterproof your own gloves?

Yes, and the best way to do so is to purchase a waterproofing wax or spray. After your gloves are thoroughly cleaned and dried, applying the waterproofing solution evenly over the entire surface of the gloves. Apply extra attention to the seams and stitching, as these are your gloves most vulnerable areas.

Next, allow your gloves to sit for around five minutes before wiping away any excess waterproofing solution with a damp cloth. Let the gloves air dry completely or tumble dry them on low if you wish to speed up the process. Finally, give them a good test by challenging the neighborhood to a snowball fight or snowman-building contest.

Summary 

Cold hands can ruin even the best of powder skiing days, even if the rest of your body is perfectly comfortable. We hope you’ve enjoyed this selection of the best winter gloves and wish you the best of luck in selecting a pair that’ll keep your hands warm and comfortable all winter long.

Via https://bestsurvival.org/best-winter-gloves/

source http://bestsurvivalus.weebly.com/blog/ranking-the-10-best-winter-gloves-of-2018

[rayanrooke]

Ranking The 10 Best Hiking Boots of 2018

A good pair of hiking boots will make your days on the trail much more enjoyable. Your feet can experience a variety of maladies while hiking, but a nice pair of boots will mesh with your feet and result in mile after mile flowing by effortlessly. The best hiking boots are lightweight, durable, and highly breathable.

Our list of the Top Ten Hiking Boots includes a host of options from industry-leading brands. This list will give you a great place to start your search, and our comprehensive Buyer’s Guide gives you a list of factors to consider when choosing which of these options will be best suited to your unique wants and needs.

1. Salomon X Ultra 3

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The Salomon X Ultra 3 hiking boots are made of a combination of leather and synthetic materials. This combination makes them both durable and lightweight. These attributes make these hiking boots an ideal selection for everything from casual day hikes to thru-hikes like the John Muir or Appalachian Trails.

These hiking boots are outfit with an Advanced Chassis that connects directly to the sole of the boot in order to stabilize the heel and keep your foot comfortable and in place, especially when hiking downhill. It also features two distinct types of rubber on the sole. A specially patterned area on the heel of the boot grabs terrain more aggressively for improved control and stability. Lastly, these hiking boots include a protective heel cap and an EVA-shaped (1) footbed sock liner.

2. Columbia Newton Ridge Plus II

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These hiking boots fit the lightweight and durable model we’re always looking for. In addition, they offer improved waterproof capability and breathability. Using a combination of full-grain leather and suede, these boots achieve a lightweight, comfortable design that will keep you stable in even the most treacherous weather events on the trail.

The Columbia Newton Ridge Plus II hiking boots feature a Techlite lightweight midsole that’s designed for comfort, superior cushioning, and better energy return. They also include an Omni-Grip advanced traction rubber sole to improve traction and a lace-up closure for an adjustable, secure fit.

3. Crispi Dakota GTX

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The Crispi Dakota GTX hiking boots are designed for superior traction on any terrain. Designed for long trips or extended expeditions, these hiking boots are constructed with a waterproof Gore-Tex® lining and a Vibram® sole complete with a polyurethane, shock-absorbing CCF (2) midsole.

The upper portion of these boots also contains water-repellent Nubuk and high-resistance Cordura fabrics. They feature a removable, CRISPI® Air Mesh footbed for outstanding breathability and anti-perspiration and anti-odor properties. These boots also include an ABSS (3) ankle support system and lock-down laces for a customizable fit and feel.

4. Merrell Moab 2

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The Merrell Moab 2 hiking boots are one of the most popular waterproof boots out there. While their name undoubtedly stirs up images of the town that goes by the same name, Moab, in this case, actually stands for ‘Mother-Of-All-Boots’. Made of durable leathers and containing a supportive footbed and Vibram® traction, these versatile boots are perfect for a variety of wilderness adventures.

These Merrell hiking boots are made of 100% suede leather with mesh sections to ensure maximum breathability. An air cushion insert in the heel absorbs shock and adds stability while the boots’ EVA midsole provides added comfort for those long days on the trail. Additionally, these hiking boots feature Merrell’s M Selection FIT.ECO+ blended EVA contoured footbed with added zonal arch and heel support. A protective rubber toe cap keeps your toes healthy even when those unexpected rocks or roots catch you off guard.

5. Adidas Terrex Fast Mid GTX

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These hiking boots from Adidas are designed to be a lightweight option that’s best for fast, technical trail adventures. They boast Adidas Stealth technology for superior friction and shock absorption over a variety of surfaces, as well as a Gore-Tex® lining that makes these boots fully waterproof and highly breathable.

The Adidas Terrex Fast Mid GTX hiking boots are made of textile material and feature a mid-cut design that provides extra ankle stability on uneven terrain. They also include Traxion and Continental rubber in the outsole for excellent grip and traction, even in wet conditions. Finally, these hiking boots feature speed-lacing construction for fast and snug lacing, as well as a molded Ortholite (4) sock liner.

6. Scarpa Zodiac Plus GTX

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The Scarpa Zodiac Plus GTX hiking boots offer a softer, more flexible version of the excellent Scarpa boots more traditionally designed for backcountry touring and serious mountaineering. These fully waterproof and breathable boots are great for moderate mountain terrain and maintain excellent performance even when the weather turns unexpectedly.

These hiking boots are made of a combination of textile and leather materials. They boast Gore-Tex® Performance Comfort technology to keep your feet dry and an asymmetric lace system to provide a precise, custom fit. They also feature sock-fit DV (5) construction that reduces bulk and three densities of EVA foam in the midsole to optimize weight and performance.

7. Vasque Breeze III Mid GTX

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Constructed from an optimized combination of leather, Mesh, and Nubuck, these hiking boots are designed to provide the perfect trail experience for its wearers. They boast 2-millimeter waterproof Nubuck leather and an air mesh upper section to guarantee breathability in even the warmest conditions.

The third-generation of the Vasque Breeze Mid GTX hiking boots boast a dual-density EVA footbed and an all-terrain cushioning midsole complete with EVA cushioning pods for superior comfort. They also feature Vasque’s exclusive VibramAr® Contact Grip outsole with Megagrip compound. Finally, they include a lace-up closure to ensure a comfortable, custom fit.

8. Lowa Renegade GTX Mid

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Climbers, mountaineers, and all types of outdoor enthusiasts have trusted the Lowa name for almost 90 years. These hiking boots stay true to the quality that underlies that name with leather/synthetic construction and Gore-Tex® lining for variable climate comfort and waterproof protection.

The Lowa Renegade GTX Mids are mixed-media hiking boots that boast speed lacing hardware and a padded tongue and collar for a comfortable, snug fit. They are designed with a polyurethane Monowrap frame at the midsole and a full-length nylon shank for superior durability. Additionally, these hiking boots feature a Vibram Evo® outsole for excellent grip and traction on rugged terrain.

9. Danner Mountain 600 EnduroWeave

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The Danner Mountain 600 EnduroWeave hiking boots are made of a combination of leather and textile materials to provide a supremely comfortable and functional boot. Designed to hold up against the summer climate and terrain of the Pacific Northwest, these Danner hiking boots combine a carbon-washed textile upper and an air mesh liner for improved breathability in warmer temperatures.

These boots also feature a Vibram SPE® midsole and Danner’s Fuga outsole that deliver unparalleled grip on both wet and dry surfaces while also providing superior cushioning without adding a bunch of unnecessary weight. Additionally, these boots boast a TPU heel frame to enhance support and stability, as well as an open-cell PU OrthoLite footbed for extra cushioning and comfort.

10. Salomon Quest 4D 3 GTX

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The last set of hiking boots in our list is another fine selection from Salomon. These boots are constructed with a combination of leather and synthetic materials. They are designed to provide the ultimate in walking comfort in order to reduce fatigue over the duration of long treks.

The Salomon Quest 4D 3 GTX hiking boots feature Salomon’s 4D Advanced Chassis that guides the foot on the roughest terrain and reduces impact and fatigue. This chassis also enables increased forefoot flexion for smoother journeys on your favorite trails. In addition, these hiking boots boast an improved outsole with new lug design for better grip on all terrain surfaces.

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Buyer’s Guide

To choose the best hiking boots you can, you need to consider your unique needs. Understanding the type of adventures you like to go on and the varying terrain you like to explore will help you choose boots that fit those needs. In this Buyer’s Guide, we will focus on the important characteristics you should consider when narrowing down your options.

Low, Mid, or High?

Ankle support is incredibly important when hiking on uneven terrain. Among experienced hikers, however, there are those that prefer lighter, lower hiking boots and those that opt for the most ankle support they can possibly find. Choosing the right boots for you requires considering the degree of ankle support you’re comfortable with.

A lot of ultralight thru-hikers actually prefer hiking boots with low ankle support because they are lighter and, therefore, allow them to move faster over longer distances. These hikers are typically traveling over well-worn trails throughout most of their adventures. As a result, the need for ankle support is slightly less than for those that frequently travel off-trail.

If you will primarily be using your new boots for summiting high mountain peaks or traveling off-trail and over incredibly rough terrain, you’ll certainly want additional ankle support. Additionally, if you have any history of injury to your ankles or knees, you’ll want more support to account for any lingering effects of these injuries. 

Uppers

These are the three main parts of hiking boot construction and they are the major terms that you should be aware of when selecting between different pairs of boots. These parts can be made from a variety of materials that, depending on the manufacturer’s choice, combine to give the boot its unique characteristics.

The upper section of a hiking boot, in its most basic sense, is the portion of the boot that protects the top and sides of your foot from the external environment. This is the section in which there is the greatest material variety amongst different hiking boots. Some examples of materials used in hiking boot uppers include leather (full-grain, split-grain, and Nubuck), synthetics (polyester, nylon, and ‘synthetic leather’), waterproof membranes (Gore-Tex®, etc), and synthetic insulation (commonly included in mountaineering boots).

Midsoles

The midsole section of hiking boots provides cushioning and protects the feet from shock. The midsole of a boot plays a large role in that boot’s overall stiffness. Stiffer boots provide greater comfort and stability, but they can take more time to break-in. Softer boots may, initially, feel more comfortable on the feet, but they won’t provide as much protection from roots, rocks, and other external surfaces.

The most common materials used in hiking boot midsoles are ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) and polyurethane. EVA has become very common because, in general, it is lighter, cheaper, and provides more cushioning. In a given midsole, EVA can vary in density in different sections of the boot to offer more support where the foot needs it most.

Polyurethane is considered firmer and more durable than EVA. Boots that are designed for long backpacking trips and mountaineering generally tend to opt for polyurethane in the midsole over EVA.

Outsoles

Hiking boots exclusively employ rubber in their outsoles. Sometimes, materials such as carbon are added to the rubber to improve hardness in backpacking or mountaineering boots. Generally, harder outsoles are more durable, but they can also become slicker when traveling off-trail or on wet terrain. There are two common terms to be familiar with when evaluation a hiking boot’s outsoles. Those terms are lug pattern and heel brake.

A boot’s lug pattern is defined as the “bumps” on the boot’s outsole that provide traction. A deeper, thicker lug pattern will provide increased grip, which is why a lot of mountaineering boots include this type of pattern. However, more widely spaced lugs can be better for wetter climates because they still provide good traction but also retain the ability to shed dirt and mud more easily as you walk.

The term ‘heel brake’ refers to zone on all hiking boots that clearly differs from the forefoot and the arch. The traction pattern on a boot’s heel brake plays a large role in reducing the chance of sliding while descending on steep, uneven terrain.

Understanding Internal Supports

When we speak about internal support in hiking boots, we need to understand two basic terms: shanks and plates. These are the most common types of internal supports used in the best hiking boots on the market today.

Shanks are inserts that are sandwiched between a boot’s midsole and the outsole. These inserts are typically between 3 and 5 millimeters thick and they function to add load-bearing stiffness to the midsole. Depending on the boots, shanks will vary in length. Some will cover the entire length of the boot’s midsole and others only cover half.

Plates are thinner, semi-flexible inserts that are placed between the midsole and the outsole of the boot. If the boot already contains shanks as well, plates will be placed below them. These plates help to protect the feet from bruising that might result from stepping on hard objects on the trail.

Ensuring a Good Fit

When it all comes down to it, you want to find a pair of boots that feel good on your feet. If this isn’t your first pair of hiking boots, you probably know your size. Keep in mind, however, that sizes can differ slightly depending on the brand and exact manufacture of the boots you’re interested in.

When trying on boots, you should always try to do so at the end of the day. This is because our feet tend to swell during a normal day’s activities, so you want to make sure the boots you choose will remain comfortable when your feet are at their largest.

You should also make sure to try boots on with appropriate socks. If you’ve just come from the office, you don’t want to try boots on with dress socks. Make sure you bring your thicker hiking socks along to recreate the situation you’ll experience on the trail as closely as possible.

Lastly, if you’ve relied on a specific brand of orthotics in your everyday shoes or past pairs of hiking boots, make sure you bring these orthotics along when trying on a new pair of boots. Insert these boots, snug them up, and spend some time walking around the store to make sure they’re really going to be comfortable when you wear them all day on the trail.

Frequently Asked Questions

In addition to finding the right pair of hiking boots for your upcoming adventures, there is much to know about caring for and maintaining a good pair of hiking boots. This section will answer some of the most Frequently Asked Questions about hiking boots, their fit, and their care.

How can I avoid blisters with my new hiking boots?

While ensuring that your boots are a proper fit before you ever leave the store is the first place to start, blisters can still happen if you didn’t get things perfectly right. If they do, however, this is not an immediate cause to take your boots back to the store.

Start by changing over to synthetic socks if you’re not already using them. This type of socks will wick away perspiration from the feet and toes that causes unnecessary friction and, as a result, increases the likelihood of blisters developing.

Additionally, many hikers don’t utilize that last shoelace hole at the top of their boots when lacing up. Lacing through these holes helps to keep the ankle and heel firmly in place, thus reducing rubbing and excessive foot movement within your boot. There are also a variety of cunning lacing techniques (6) that can help you ensure a snug fit and reduce blisters. 

Can I waterproof boots that don’t come with that feature?

Yes, all hiking boots can be waterproofed with the right supplies. While most leather boots are considered to be “waterproof out of the box,” they can be additionally coated to make the leather softer and more comfortable. If you choose to purchase boots that are 100% synthetic or that feature a synthetic combination material, you might also consider adding waterproof linings to your gear list.

What is the best way to break in my new boots?

It’s important to know that even boots that feel great in the store will take some time to fully break in on the trail. While the simple solution is to spend time walking in them, there are a few tricks you can use to speed up the process of breaking in a new pair of hiking boots.

The first tip goes back to our last question. As we mentioned, waterproofing will stretch leather boots, thereby making them more supper and comfortable. If you do buy leather boots, of course, you can also use a leather softener to speed up the break-in process.

Make sure you also avoid the urge to “bite off more than you can chew” when breaking in new boots. Start off with manageable day hikes and shorter outings to get some preliminary mileage on your boots before attempting a thru-hike or multi-day expedition.

How can I extend the life of my new pair of hiking boots? 

Generally, there are four major exercises you can do to extend the life of your hiking boots. Regular cleaning, drying, and waterproofing are the first three. The fourth is the use of a boot tree that lessens gravity’s impact on your boots over time when they’re not in use.

When cleaning leather boots, make sure to do so with water only. Washing leather boots with soap can remove many of the protective oils that are naturally occurring in leather. Synthetic materials, on the other hand, can and should be washed with soap and water, and then rinsed well. Whether your boots are leather or synthetic, make sure you air drying them rather than tossing them in the dryer.

Summary

Comfort on the trail starts from the ground up. The right pair of hiking boots will keep your feet dry and healthy throughout your wilderness adventures. We hope you’ve enjoyed this list of the best hiking boots, as well as our tips for buying the right pair of boots to meet your needs. We wish you the best of luck in choosing our next pair of hiking boots and we will see you on the trail.

  Via https://bestsurvival.org/best-hiking-boots/

source http://bestsurvivalus.weebly.com/blog/ranking-the-10-best-hiking-boots-of-2018

[rayanrooke]

Ranking The 10 Best Food Dehydrators of 2018

Dehydrated food is one of the best ways to stay nutritionally satiated on long hiking trips or hunting expeditions. In many cases, however, purchasing foods that are already dehydrated(freeze dried food) can get really expensive. It’s almost always cheaper to buy ingredients in bulk and then dehydrate them yourself at home.

In order to do so, you need a high-quality food dehydrator. Our list of the Top Ten Food Dehydrators is designed to introduce a number of high-quality food dehydrators that you can use to prep food for your next trip. Be sure to read through our Buyer’s Guide after these rankings for all the information you need to choose the best food dehydrator for your needs.

1. Excalibur

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This electric food dehydrator comes with nine trays and a total of 15 square feet of drying space. The unit’s adjustable thermostat can be programmed to temperatures between 105 and 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Capable of dehydrating fruits, nuts, vegetables, and meat, it’s an ideal food dehydrator for large families, gardeners, and sportsmen.

The trays in this Excalibur food dehydrator do not need to be moved or rotated during operation. The unit’s temperature range is low enough to preserve the active enzymes in fruits and vegetables while maintaining the capability to meet safety standards for dehydrating meat for jerky. The dehydrator features a 26-hour timer, a 7-inch fan for increased air circulation, and a flexible poly-screen tray insert to prevent foods from sticking.

2. Nesco Snackmaster Pro

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The Nesco Snackmaster Pro food dehydrator comes stock with five trays but it is capable of expanding to include a total of twelve. Each tray is 13.5 inches in diameter. It can dehydrate meats, fruits, and vegetables in a matter of hours and has the flexibility to dehydrate each different food group for the best quality results.

This electric food dehydrator can be programmed to temperatures ranging from 95 to 160 degrees Fahrenheit. It is equipped with a powerful top mounted fan and the patented Converga-Flow drying system. This system forces air down through the exterior pressurized chamber, rather than through the trays themselves. This air is then forced horizontally across each individual tray for fast, even, and nutritious drying.

3. Presto Dehydro Digital

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This digital electric food dehydrator comes with a six-tray system that is designed to help you dehydrate foods efficiently and without additives or preservatives. It’s an ideal dehydrator for a variety of food groups, including red meat, poultry, and seafood. It includes six drying trays, but it is capable of expanding to include a total of 12 trays at maximum capacity.

The Presto Dehydro food dehydrator comes with a digital thermostat and timer to increase the precision of drying time and temperature choice. It offers a temperature range of 90 to 165 degrees Fahrenheit and the bottom-mounted fan and heating element work together to provide consistent airflow without the need for rotation. This dehydrator also comes with two fruit roll sheets and two nonstick mesh screen trays.

4. Tribest Sedona Express

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The Tribest Sedona Express food dehydrator is the world’s first full-featured dehydrator. It offers a compact, kitchen-friendly design and comes with a total of eleven drying trays. This dehydrator is designed to deliver optimal airflow and rapid dehydration, no matter whether you’re drying fruits, vegetables, meat, or crackers.

This food dehydrator features all-digital controls for accurate programming of temperature and timing. It offers a maximum temperature of 175 degrees Fahrenheit and is built with an all-glass, hinged door for easy monitoring and insertion/extraction of trays. It provides quiet operation in a non-flammable and BPA-free plastic body. Perhaps best of all, the Tribest Sedona Express comes with a 10-year warranty (1).

5. NutriChef

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This professional electric food dehydrator is built to preserve a wide variety of foods while maintaining their nutritional quality and reducing the amount of user preparation. It’s a great dehydrator for reducing food waste and eliminating the spoilage that happens to so many of our favorite fruits, vegetables, and meat.

The NutriChef food dehydrator comes with five stackable trays. These trays are easily removable for cleaning purposes and can also be cleaned while still inside. The unit offers a maximum temperature of 180 degrees Fahrenheit and has been scientifically tested to increase food shelf life through the use of high heat circulation. By removing moisture content, this dehydrator will shrink food but still retain at least 97% of the food’s essential vitamins and minerals.

6. Nesco Gardenmaster

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The Nesco Gardenmaster is a fully digitally-controlled unit that is expandable to include up to 20 drying trays. Each tray is 15.5-inches in diameter. The unit’s digital timer can be programmed for up to 48 hours of drying time, making it an excellent choice for anyone that wants to dehydrate a lot of different foods in a short amount of time.

This food dehydrator offers a temperature range of 90 to 160 degrees Fahrenheit. The unit’s top-mounted fan keeps liquids from dripping into the heater chamber and its patented Converga-Flow drying system guarantees even drying across each tray. The unit also comes with a 52-page recipe and instruction book, one solid sheet, one mesh sheet, and a packet of spices to make delicious beef or venison jerky.

7. Hamilton Beach Digital

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This food dehydrator is ideal for anyone that wants to create their own snack options that are high in nutrients but low in calories. It will help you prepare everything from beef jerky to kale chips with its temperature range of 100 to 160 degrees Fahrenheit and a 48-hour timer outfit with an all-important, auto-shutoff feature.

The Hamilton Beach Digital food dehydrator comes with a clear lid so that you can easily check on the progress of your foods. It boasts five stackable dry trays. Continuous airflow over each of these trays provides even drying while retaining your food’s nutritional value. This unit also includes one fine-mesh sheet ideally suited for drying herbs and one solid sheet for making fruit rolls.

8. Gourmia Premium

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The Gourmia Premium food dehydrator will help you forget about the need to buy processed trail snacks from the store. You’ll be able to make more flavorful, nutrient-rich, additive-free, alternatives at a fraction of the cost from the comfort of your home. This unit comes with six removable, non-stick trays with plenty of space to dehydrate fruits, vegetables, and meats.

This food dehydrator offers an adjustable digital thermostat with a temperature range of 95 to 158 degrees Fahrenheit. It boasts a back-mounted fan that delivers silent, consistent airflow and heat circulation for even drying action without the need for rotating trays. The unit’s door is transparent so that you can easily monitor the status of your foods and it comes with a bonus fruit leather sheet and drip tray.

9. Cuisinart DHR-20

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This dehydrator can tackle fruits, vegetables, and meats to help you create your own delicious and nutritious snacks. It’s also capable of drying a variety of herbs so that you can create your own spice combinations for meals on the trail. It comes with five stackable, interlocking racks but can expand to include a total of nine racks at maximum capacity.

The Cuisinart DHR-20 an adjustable temperature control with four settings: Fan Only, Low, Medium, and High. The unit’s powerful motorized fan and top venting system work together to ensure fast, even drying regardless of the food type it’s working with. This dehydrator also includes an additional fruit roll-up sheet.

10. Samson “Silent”

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The Samson “Silent” Stainless Steel dehydrator features digital controls and a glass door for seamless food monitoring. It comes with ten stainless trays, ten BPA-free mesh liners, and a BPA-free drip tray, making it an ideal dehydrator for drying a ton of foods fast.

The unit offers a total drying space of 15.6 square feet and its removable trays allow you to dehydrate larger items with ease. It boasts a temperature range of 95 to 167 degrees Fahrenheit and a digital timer that allows up to 19.5 hours of drying time. It provides even drying performance in a much quieter package when compared with its competitors.

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Buyer’s Guide

Historical evidence suggests that food dehydration dates back as far as 12,000 BCE. This evidence indicates that ancient Egyptians used desert heat to dry fish and poultry. (2) Although the sun continued to function as the main drying agent until the Middle Ages, dehydration methods have undoubtedly advanced rapidly since then. However,  the sheer quantity of dehydrators available today can be a bit overwhelming for some.

Selecting the right food dehydrator requires a deeper understanding of several factors. These factors include heat distribution and airflow, ease of use, size and capacity, wattage, and convenient features. We will now discuss each of these factors in greater depth.

Does It Dry Evenly?

Dehydrating foods is not rocket science. By keeping the food at a consistent, high temperature for a long time, you remove a significant percentage of the food’s moisture content. The hardest part is ensuring that heat is evenly distributed over the food for the duration of the drying process. It’s nearly impossible to guarantee that each food item you place in a dehydrator will be the exact same distance away from the heating element, so making sure the unit has a definitive means of facilitating airflow is a must.

When buying a food dehydrator, you should carefully research what each manufacturer details in regards to heat distribution and airflow for the models you’re interested in. Many horizontal flow food dehydrators tend to be more effective at providing even heat distribution than others, but vertical models typically include fans and other elements that help to improve their performance.

Is It User-Friendly?  

If we’re being quite honest, there isn’t a whole lot of work that goes into dehydrating your favorite foods. Most of the work will come in the form of cutting or chopping fruits, vegetables, meats, and herbs before placing them in the dehydrator. There’s also not a whole lot of variance in the ways in which food dehydrators are operated.

That said, there is one important feature that ‘user-friendly’ models include over others. That feature is the ability to cook evenly enough so that you won’t have to switch or rotate trays regularly. With some models, you’ll have to closely monitor your foods and rotate or rearrange trays on a regular basis to ensure even drying.

In the most ‘user-friendly’ models, this is not necessary. You’ll be able to place foods in the dehydrator, set a timer or automatic shut-off feature, and walk away. This makes dehydrating foods an easy task as you go about the rest of your day.

Another important point to be considered in terms of ease of use is what it takes to clean a unit. Units that include removable, dishwasher-safe trays are generally going to be the easiest to keep clean if you’re dehydrating a lot of foods 

Is It Large Enough?

Only you know the quantities of foods you wish to dehydrate in a single cycle. If you’ll only be dehydrating foods for a few short backpacking trips every year, a smaller model might be best. On the other hand, if you aim to dehydrate several bulk batches of produce from your garden every year, you’ll need a much larger unit.

Some of the best units available have the ability to expand to meet your needs. These models allow you to add trays as your dehydrating needs grow. They also allow you to keep your dehydrator at a functional size so that it fits with the rest of your kitchen appliances. Available kitchen space is another important factor to consider when choosing the best size for your dehydrator. 

Is It Powerful Enough?

A dehydrator’s power capability largely comes down to its wattage. For our purposes in selecting a food dehydrator, wattage is defined as “the power rating, measured in watts, of an electrical appliance.” (3)

A dehydrator with a lower wattage will use less energy overall but will also take longer to heat up and do its job. A dehydrator with a higher wattage will heat up much faster and be more powerful in general. The downside, however, is that a unit with a higher wattage tends to be more expensive to purchase and will also use considerably more energy when in use. (4)

What Is It Made From?

The materials used in the construction of a given dehydrator also play a minor role in its performance. Most of the units out there have plastic bodies with sometimes metal and sometimes plastic trays.

The more durable models use stainless steel construction to ensure that they last a long time. These models, however, are generally more popular in restaurant kitchens or other settings where they will take more of a beating on a daily basis. Most dehydrators that are used sparingly in home kitchens are less expensive because they rely on a plastic body design. 

What Puts It ‘Over-the-Top’?

As we stated earlier, the purpose and function of a food dehydrator are relatively simple. However, there are several add-ons that can separate a good dehydrator from one that you really love to use. If you’re looking for a dehydrator that will inspire you to constantly be on the hunt for new foods to dry, consider a few features that put a dehydrator ‘over-the-top’.

A digital thermostat is one feature that can significantly increase the handiness of a dehydrator. Different foods require different temperatures to dry optimally and retain their nutritional properties. A digital thermostat will allow you to dial in a dehydrator’s temperature to optimize drying for specific food groups.

A timer is another feature that you should look for. It takes hours (sometimes days) to dehydrate certain foods. You don’t want to have to rely on checking your foods over and over again to make sure they’re dry enough but not too dry. A timer will let you set your dehydrator and walk away for hours without worry. Then, your unit will politely remind you when it is time to remove foods.

The last add-on feature you should look for is an automatic shut-off feature. This option takes things a step further than a timer and lets you program exactly how long you want your dehydrator to operate before shutting off. With this feature, you’ll truly be able to “set and forget.”

Frequently Asked Questions

There are many backpackers, hunters, and outdoor enthusiasts that utilize food dehydrators to prepare all of their meals for extended stays in the wilderness. In order to help you maximize the use of your new food dehydrator, we’ve put together this list of some of the most common concerns about using dehydrators, as well as what to do with foods once they’re dried.

How many watts should a food dehydrator have?

When it comes to power, you’ll want a dehydrator that offers at least 500 watts. In general, higher wattage means quicker, more efficient drying.

How long does it take to dry food in a dehydrator?

This varies greatly depending on a number of factors. Some foods may take as little as 10 hours and others take as much as 24-48 hours. In general, dehydration times are dependent on temperature, desired texture, size of the foods you’re drying, the overall moisture content of those foods, and the surrounding environment.

What temperature should I use to dry different foods?

Again, this largely depends on your personal preferences. Lower temperatures tend to preserve more of a food’s natural enzymes while higher temperatures are necessary for meat and fish in order to ensure they are safe to consume. Most foods can be dried at temperatures ranging from 90 to 160 degrees Fahrenheit. Here is a brief summary of the “ideal” temps for the most common foods prepared with dehydrators:

Herbs and delicate items: 95 F

Yogurt making: 115 F

Vegetables: 125 F

Fruits: 135 F

Meat and Fish: 155 F

What is the best way to store foods once they are dry?

Generally, any rigid, sterilized container will do. Dried foods can be stored for many months without the risk of spoiling. Minimizing the amount of extra air leftover in the container once you fill it with dried foods will improve the shelf life of those foods. The additional kicker is that you’ll want to ensure that any container you store dried foods in remains airtight until you’re ready to consume those foods.

Why can’t I use my oven to dehydrate foods?

Although some models of high-end combination ovens have the versatility to dry certain foods, most convection ovens can’t maintain the consistent temperatures need to dehydrate foods properly. In these types of ovens, invariability between hot and cold spots means a lot of variation in dryness amongst the different pieces of fruits, vegetables, herbs, or meat that you’re trying to dehydrate.

In general, convection ovens are also much less energy efficient than food dehydrators and come with a low-temperature limit (typically between 150 and 200 degrees) that is far too high for optimal food dehydration.

What are the benefits of drying food yourself over buying it in store?

There is one major advantage to dehydrating your own foods at home: you control the process! From selecting quality ingredients to determining the optimal drying method for preserving nutritional content, you’ll have the freedom to create healthier, more delicious snacks than you could ever buy at the store. Plus, you’ll be able to do so at a fraction of the cost of buying dehydrated snacks in the store.

Can I use my dehydrator for things other than food?

Yes. Other known uses for dehydrators include drying clay and metal jewelry before firing, drying flowers to make potpourri, creating exotic cake decorations, restoring old audio cassettes that have been subject to moisture or humidity, making healthy natural dog treats, curing natural healing remedies, and preserving cinematic film for safe storage.

Summary 

A quality food dehydrator will save you a boatload of money on food for your next wilderness adventure. Don’t be one of those thru-hikers who rely on Snickers bars from Mexico to Canada. A food dehydrator can be an essential part of making food for food storage.  Get yourself a dehydrator and have some fun creating your own delicious, nutritious trail snacks. We hope you’ve found the dehydrators and the information in this article useful and we wish you the best of luck selecting the right food dehydrator for your needs.

  Via https://bestsurvival.org/best-food-dehydrator/

source http://bestsurvivalus.weebly.com/blog/ranking-the-10-best-food-dehydrators-of-2018

[rayanrooke]

Ranking The 10 Best Wool Socks of 2018

Wool socks are a gift from the gods of warmth in the winter months. They keep your feet comfortable and cozy as outside temperatures plummet, but they’re also useful throughout the year. Many hikers swear by wool socks year-round, and there are types of wool socks made for a variety of activities.

Our list of the Top Ten Wool Socks includes options that are great for winter weather, all-season hiking, trail running, and much more. Whatever your activity of choice, you’ll find something here that fits your needs. Be sure to read through our Buyer’s Guide after these rankings to learn more about selecting the right pair of wool socks for you!

1. Darn Tough Micro Crew

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These wool socks deliver on comfort, performance, and style. They’re great for everything from a casual day hike to ascents of the world’s highest mountains. Cushioning all along the bottom of the foot provides the perfect amount of support for adventures of all shapes and sizes.

These Darn Tough Micro Crew Cushion wool socks are made for a performance fit, which means they won’t slip, bunch, or cause blisters. They are made with fine-gauge Merino wool, a material that is naturally antimicrobial and antibacterial. Made in Vermont, these wool socks are unconditionally guaranteed for life (1).

2. Smartwool PHD Mountaineer

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These wool socks have earned their ‘PhD’ because they were engineered for “performance in the highest degree.” Made from an optimal combination of mesh, nylon, and wool, these socks are an excellent choice for mountaineering or alpine adventures.

The Smartwool PHD Mountaineer wool socks boast a 4-degree, elite fit system that uses two elastics for greater stretch and recovery to keep the sock in place. Mesh venting zones in these socks are designed to provide optimum moisture management and maximum breathability. They also have a flex zone at the ankle for increased flexibility and comfort.

3. Wigwam Midweight Crew

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The Wigwam Midweight Crew wool socks provide exceptional comfort for any adventure. They are the go-to socks for everything from long days on the trail to cool nights around the campfire. Ultra-soft Merino wool makes these socks extra comfortable.

These socks are engineered with 60-percent Merino wool, 33-percent stretch nylon, 5-percent acrylic, and 2-percent elastic. This blend of natural and synthetic fibers extends the lifetime of the product by providing reinforced durability. These socks are also cushioned throughout and insulated with loops of Merino wool for added heat retention.

4. Icebreaker Hike+ Compression OTC

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The Icebreaker Hike+ Compression OTC wool socks provide support, breathability, and comfort across a wide variety of active pursuits. They combine a blend of soft, breathable Merino wool with nylon for improved durability and lycra for stretch and shape retention.

These wool socks offer the benefits of graduated compression to improve blood flow during long, high-output days on your feet. Their reinforced, half-cushioned design offers long-lasting performance and strategic breathe zones help to provide the comfort and flexibility your feet need.

5. People Socks Crew 4-Pack

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This four-pack of crew length wool socks are designed for everyday wear. They are built to find the perfect balance between being too thick and too thin. A reinforced heel and toe mean they won’t wear out as quickly as many others, and The People’s Promise (2) means you won’t have to worry even if they do!

The People Socks Crew wool socks are constructed of 71-percent Merino wool, 21-percent nylon, 7-percent polyester, and 1-percent spandex. This carefully considered blend is designed to be itch-free, anti-odor, and capable of maintaining durability throughout the lifetimes of the socks. The shaped cushioning in the footbed provides additional comfort without adding unnecessary bulk.

6. Injinji 2.0 Midweight Crew

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This is the first (and only) pair of toe socks included in our list! They are part of Injinji’s Outdoor Series, which provides the ultimate in foot comfort and performance. These socks are designed to offer optimal cushioning, stability, support, and comfort for backpacking, day hiking, running, and many other outdoor activities.

The Injinji 2.0 Midweight Crew wool socks are made with a blend of 64-percent NuWool, 33-percent nylon, and 3-percent lycra. This combination boasts superior blister prevention while maximizing wool’s inherent natural properties to make these socks ideal for all weather conditions.

7. J.B. Icelandic Arctic Trail

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These wool socks are made for extreme cold winter conditions. Made for temperatures down to minus-40 degrees Fahrenheit, these socks were specifically designed for people that need to keep their feet warm even when in some of the coldest conditions imaginable.

Made in Canada, the J.B. Icelandic Arctic Trail 40 Below wool socks contain a whopping 85-percent PreShrunk Wool. The remaining 15-percent of the material used in these socks is nylon. These socks also boast an X-Hi cushion to provide extra warmth and protection.

8. Darn Tough Vermont Hiker

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The Darn Tough Vermont Hiker wool socks are made with fine-gauge Merino Wool. The Vermont Hiker is a fast-drying and extremely breathable sock designed to stay cool in the summer and warm in the winter. This makes them an ideal option for year-round, all-weather use.

These socks boast full cushioning throughout for superior support and comfort without unwanted weight and bulk. For backpackers, these socks are both antimicrobial and antibacterial, which comes in handy when you need to “squeeze” an extra day or two out of your socks.

9. Wigwam El Pine

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These heavyweight wool socks are made to be worn in colder conditions and designed to provide exceptional defense against the cold. They are made from 76-percent wool, 22-percent stretch nylon, and 2-percent spandex to provide years of warmth and protection.

With dimensions of 12-inches high and 4-inches wide, the Wigwam El Pine wool socks are built from a unique blend of natural and synthetic fibers that combine to extend the life of the products. They also boast a “true rib,” which is a classic knit that provides a comfortable fit.

10. Rockay Accelerate

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These wool socks are a great option for winter trail runners that don’t want an overly bulky and hot wool sock. They are made with wool from South America, which in and of itself has natural anti0odor properties. This makes these socks great for runners that frequently struggle with blisters, rubbing, and foot odor issues.

The Rockay Accelerate wool socks are designed to fit tight and snug. They have powerful compression in the arch and tight elastic at the top to prevent dirt from entering. They also contain ventilation zones that wick sweat to keep your feet bone dry and blister-free for miles and miles on the trail.

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Buyer’s Guide

Comfort on the trail or in the wilderness always starts from the ground up. A solid pair of high-tech wool socks is your first line of defense against blisters and others uncomfortable foot issues. In this Buyer’s Guide, we are going to focus on a number of factors you need to consider when buying wool socks.

Why ‘Merino Wool’?

It’s no secret that wool socks come with a heftier price tag than their cotton or polyester counterparts. However, the added benefits you’ll get with a better quality pair of wool socks is certainly worth the added cost.

Merino wool naturally wicks moisture away from your feet when you sweat. Dealing with sweat is a natural part of most outdoor activities, and having socks that pull moisture away from your feet means added comfort for long days on the trail. Merino wool also contains natural antibacterial properties. When combined, these two natural properties mean merino wool greatly decreases the odor of your socks.

Additionally, merino wool is capable of retaining more warmth when wet than other materials. It also won’t feel as sticky to the touch when wet. This means a lot when there’s a high likelihood of your socks getting wet when you’re tramping about. Bottom line: merino wool is the best material to keep your feet comfortable in almost any environmental situation imaginable.

Height

As you know, there are many sock lengths to choose from. They range from no-show to ‘over-the-calf’ and ’knee-high’. Generally, over-the-calf and knee-high socks are primarily used for winter sports, in everyday boots, or as compression socks for distance runners.

Crew socks (also sometimes known as ‘midcalf’ or ‘midweight’) are excellent for everyday wear, especially during the winter months. Many hikers, however, swear by crew socks year-round, because of their extra ankle protection when wearing high-top hiking boots.

One-quarter, ankle, and no-show socks are primarily those that are used during the summer months or for workout purposes only. These socks are great to use with trail running shoes, but most hikers tend to shy away from them on long journeys.

Fabrics

Most of the best wool socks on the market today actually contain a blend of wool and certain other materials, as opposed to being 100% wool. This is largely due to the fact that merino wool, by itself, is actually weaker than cotton. This is only of the only drawbacks to merino wool, but by combining it with nylon, spandex, lycra, and a variety of other fabrics, sock manufacturers have produced more durable socks while still retaining all of the naturally beneficial properties of merino wool.

It’s important to know that a higher percentage of merino wool in a sock’s composition doesn’t necessarily reflect higher quality. In fact, some of the most durable wool socks on the market today actually contain a lower percentage of merino wool. In reducing that percentage, they are able to engineer a more durable sock. A higher percentage of merino wool, however, does generally signify a sock that will feel softer on your foot.

Weight

Wool socks usually come in a specific weight. This is usually advertised as ‘ultralight, light, medium, or heavy’. A heavier weight wool sock is generally better for use in colder weather or for heavy trekking. This is because they provide more cushioning than lightweight alternatives.

Lighter weight wool socks tend to be more breathable than their heavier counterparts, which makes them an ideal option for summer use or with insulated boots. The downside to a thinner, more breathable sock is that it will also contain minimal padding in comparison to heavier weights. Consider your desired activity when choosing between light and heavyweight wool socks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Did you know that wool socks can actually break down more quickly is machine washed in excessively hot water? This Frequently Asked Questions section will answer some of the most common concerns about wool socks so that you can use and care for yours to the best of your ability.

Will wool socks shrink when washed?

Wool can shrink when exposed to heat. When caring for your wool socks, you want to avoid washing in hot water or drying on a medium to high setting. Wash in cold water and dry on low. Better yet, hand wash or spot clean and then lay flat to dry. Hanging wet wool socks can actually distort their shape.

Can I use bleach or fabric softener with wool socks?

The short answer is no!! The chlorine in bleach actually destroys the merino wool fibers that make up most wool socks. Fabric softener should also be avoided because it can coat the merino wool fibers of your socks. In doing so, it will reduce their ability to naturally manage moisture and regulate your body temperature. In other words, they compromise your sock’s ability to function optimally.

Do I need liners for any of these socks?

The socks mentioned above are designed to be durable and perform optimally without the use of sock liners. In general, if you’re considering buying a wool sock with a very high percentage of merino wool in the fabric, it’s more likely you’ll want to purchase a liner. A liner, in this case, will simply decrease the wear on the sock itself and make it last longer.

Summary

There’s nothing quite like slipping into a fresh, comfortable pair of wool socks as you’re gearing up for an outdoor adventure. Knowing your feet are going to be comfortable no matter what the environment throws at you frees you up to truly enjoy your experience. We hope you’ve enjoyed this article on the best wool socks and we wish you the best of luck in finding a pair that suits you!

Via https://bestsurvival.org/best-wool-socks/

source http://bestsurvivalus.weebly.com/blog/ranking-the-10-best-wool-socks-of-2018

[rayanrooke]

Ranking The 10 Best Freeze Dried Foods of 2018

There’s arguably nothing worse than eating the same thing night in and night out on a long hunting or mountaineering expedition. When you’re trekking in the wilderness for days on end, mealtime becomes ever more coveted and giving your body the nutrition it needs to keep going is critical.

Fortunately, there is a wide selection of freeze dried foods available to keep your taste buds guessing on the trail. Our list of the Top Ten Freeze Dried Foods will give you an idea of how many brands and delicious concoctions there are to choose from. Our Buyer’s Guide and Frequently Asked Questions sections will also cover everything you need to know to stock up for your next trip.

1. Mountain House Rice and Chicken

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Mountain House’s Rice and Chicken is a simple staple that goes down easy and requires minimal preparation. This mixture is perfectly seasoned in a savory sauce accented with pimentos. It’s ready in less than 10 minutes by simply adding boiling water.

One of the best parts about this Mountain House meal is that it can be consumed right out of the can, which contains 10 single-cup servings. This means minimal cleanup when your belly is full and you’re ready to climb into your tent. Lastly, this freeze dried rice and chicken is backed by a 30-year taste guarantee.

2. Astronaut Snack Pack

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This unique blend of ‘astro-goodies’ is great for keeping energy levels up throughout the day. They say that it’s best to eat more small snacks throughout the day instead of just a couple of large meals, and these freeze dried snacks are a great way to do just that.

The Astronaut Snack Pack includes five distinct, space-related snacks, including cheddar Moon Cheese, Astronaut Ice Cream (Neapolitan sandwiches), Astro grapes, three candy classic Space Food Sticks, and two all-new Splashdown water enhancers.

3. MaryJanesFarm Kettle Chili

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This 3.3-ounce bag of kettle chili is made with all-natural, organic ingredients, making it perfect for the more health conscious hiker, backpacker, or hunter. It includes lentils, black bean flakes, tomatoes, onions, red bell peppers, sea salt, garlic, and various additional herbs and spices.

Preparation of this Kettle Chili from MaryJanesFarm is easy. The top of the pouch tears off and the pouch itself stands up on its own. Just boil 1.5 cups of water and carefully pour directly into the pouch. Stir well, fold the top down, and let it sit for seven minutes. After a brief wait, give it another quick stir and enjoy your hearty, healthy dinner.

4. Backpacker’s Pantry Pad Thai

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The Backpacker’s Pantry Pad Thai is a non-GMO, vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free backcountry meal that is high in protein to replenish the calories you exert throughout the day. It’s made of premium freeze dried meats and produce to provide nutritious enjoyment for backpackers, hikers, and hunters alike.

This freeze dried meal contains two servings, each with 460 total calories. Rice noodles are seasoned with a spicy, sweet, garlic sauce and supplemented with textured soy protein, vegetables, and roasted peanuts. Preparation on this one requires a little more effort, but the returns are certainly worth the work.

5. Wild Zora Mountain Beef Stew

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The team at Wild Zora makes delicious trail snacks and meals from minimally processed, all-natural ingredients. This freeze dried meal is ideal for backpackers, hikers, and hunters that want to eat on the trail just like they eat at home.

The Wild Zora Mountain Beef Stew contains grass-fed beef, organic carrots, onion, broccoli, mushrooms, kale, celery, green onion, sea salt, garlic, marjoram, thyme, and parsley. Each container holds a single, 420-calorie serving and lasts up to 2 years unopened. Perhaps best of all, improved packaging makes the pouches these meals come in even easier to eat from.

6. Peak Refuel Strawberry Granola

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This freeze dried breakfast meal is a great option for early morning peak scrambles or adventures deep into the backcountry. Each pouch contains a whopping 23 grams of protein and two whole servings of delicious, wholesome granola with strawberries and milk.

Peak Refuel uses non-GMO ingredients in all of their freeze dried meals so that you can enjoy a nutritious backpacking meal by just adding water. All the ingredients rehydrate right in the pouch, which you can also eat straight out of, making clean up virtually non-existent with this freeze dried food.

7. Good To Go Thai Curry

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This thai curry from Good To Go is pescatarian, gluten-free, low in sodium, and contains zero preservatives. It’s made in the USA and boasts an extraordinary four-year shelf life when unopened, making it an excellent choice for extended hunting or backpacking trips.

One pouch of Good To Go Thai Curry contains two servings of spicy yellow coconut curry with vegetables and jasmine rice. Preparation requires just four simple steps and in just about 20 to 25 minutes you’ll be enjoying a delicious Thai dinner.

8. Mountain House Breakfast Skillet

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The Mountain House Breakfast Skillet is a staple breakfast meal for so many backpackers, hikers, and hunters. Each pouch contains two one-cup servings that can be prepared in just under 10 minutes and comes with an astounding 30-year taste guarantee.

This freeze dried food contains hash browns, potatoes, eggs, red and green bell peppers, onions, and sausage. Preparation is easy. All you need to do is boil and add water, let the meal rehydrate and heat, and you’ll be enjoying a hearty breakfast just like the ones you’d cook at home.

9. AlpineAire Veggie Burrito Bowl

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This freeze dried food option is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a meat-free substitute when out on the trail. It still provides enough substance to make you feel full and replenished after a long day hunting, hiking, or backpacking.

The AlpineAire Vegetarian Burrito Bowl contains a savory blend of cilantro-lime rice, black beans, corn, peppers, and zesty Mexican spices. Each package contains 600 total calories and a heaping 20 grams of protein. Preparation requires nothing more than the addition of boiling water, a stir or two, and a little patience.

10. TrailFork Coconut Chana Masala

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TrailFork has really outdone themselves in putting this deliciously creamy spin on a lightly spiced classic. All of TrailFork’s meals are prepared in a separate container using only boiling water. This is largely due to the fact that they’re taking care of our environment by offering 100% compostable packaging.

The TrailFork Coconut Chana Masala is vegan and gluten-free. It contains white rice, garbanzo beans, coconut milk powder, spice, and tomato powder. Each pouch contains one, 590-calorie serving that’s packed with 18 grams of protein. This freeze dried food option is ready to enjoy in just over 10 minutes.

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Buyer’s Guide

Freeze dried foods have come a long way since the earliest rudimentary techniques were practiced by the Incas in the 15thcentury (1). Even our access today has rapidly improved compared to what astronauts were eating on some of their first space missions. Fortunately for us, a lot of people like to backpack, hunt, and hike, and a lot of those people want to eat well while doing those activities.

Freeze dried food options are many, and they can actually be quite delicious. In this Buyer’s Guide, we are going to focus on several important characteristics of freeze dried foods to help you make the best decision of what kinds of meals are best for you.

Counting Calories

The USDA recommends that most women consume between 1600 and 2400 calories per day, while they say men should be consuming somewhere between 2000 and 3000 calories. This, of course, ranges quite a bit depending on age and activity level (2). Many avid backpackers would support the claim that they need more than 2000 calories a day to replenish what they’re using on the trail.

So, while counting calories isn’t all that fun, doing it well in advance of your trip can help you make sure you’re getting the sustenance you need throughout your trip. For example, if your preferred freeze dried food choice for breakfast gives you about 400 calories to start your day, you know you’ll still have at least 1600 calories to go throughout the rest of the day.

If you adhere to the “three meals a day” model while in the back country, 400 calories per meal just aren’t going to cut it. You’ll want to search for meals that offer somewhere in the 500 to 900 calorie range for your “main” meals and then supplement with snacks in between.

It’s also important to consider where these calories are coming from. In a side-by-side comparison, the Backpackers Pantry Pad Thai contains a total of 920 calories while the Good To Go Thai Curry offers a total of 760 calories. Both contain two servings per container. The most noticeable difference comes in the protein category, with the former containing double the protein (20 grams) than the latter.

While it’s also important to do your own research on sodium, fat, and cholesterol content in your preferred freeze dried foods, as well as various other vitamins and minerals, protein and carbohydrates are going to be two of the most critical nutritional items you’ll need to replenish when your activity levels are high on the trail.

Serving Size

Serving size is another one to be wary of when purchasing freeze dried foods. Not all brands package their meal options in the same fashion. Some prefer to package single servings of their recipes and some design their meals to be shared with a hiking or hunting partner. Buying a meal that’s fit for one and expecting to share it will certainly leave both parties feeling dissatisfied.

Make sure the freeze dried foods you purchase contain the number of servings you’re looking for. In some cases, especially if your activity level is extremely high, meals that claim to be packaged for two can suit one person quite well.

Net Weight

When it comes to moving around in the back country, pack weight is a consideration whether you’re backpacking or hunting. Freeze dried foods are much lighter than their perishable alternatives, but there’s still a minuscule difference between foods produced by different brands, as well as between certain meal options and others.

In a side-by-side comparison of the Wild Zora Mountain Beef Stew and the TrailFork Coconut Chana Masala, for example, the former boasts a total net weight of 85 grams while the latter’s total net weight is 143 grams. Both are single serving meals offering 420 and 590 calories, respectively. It’ll be up to you to decide whether the extra weight is worth the extra nutritional value when deciding between two freeze dried foods.

Quality of Ingredients

The ingredients used in freeze dried foods today can vary greatly. You’ll find everything from a simple set of five or six total ingredients to a lengthy list of terms you don’t even recognize. A balance must be struck between getting the nutritional value you need and compromising on the quality of ingredients in your meals.

Now, it’s not necessary to research where every company is sourcing all of its ingredients from, but the quality of ingredients in certain freeze dried foods can make a difference in how your body reacts to their nutritional value. In general, a “less is more” approach can be useful when doing side-by-side comparisons of ingredient lists on different freeze dried foods.

Cost

Freeze dried foods, fortunately, aren’t crazy expensive, but if you’re embarking on a long trip, buying in bulk is a great way to reduce overall food costs. Some freeze dried food companies sell their recipes in bulk so that you can package up individual servings on your own for later use. This can be a big money saver when you’re also factoring in costs of gear, permits, transportation, and more.

When comparing different freeze dried foods, it’s important to look at more than the overall cost, however. The technique is the same when performing comparisons at the grocery store. You’re hoping to find the most of the product you want for the cheapest price. This means considering price per ounce rather than just total cost.

Frequently Asked Questions

Freeze dried foods are a great, lightweight food option for all forms of outdoor adventure. In this Frequently Asked Questions section, we seek to answer some of the most common areas of concern regarding freeze dried meals.

How does freeze drying work?

In this process, foods are first frozen and then placed in a strong vacuum were all moisture is vaporized and removed from the product. This process helps to preserve foods for a longer period of time without altering the taste or nutritional content.

What is the biggest mistake when preparing freeze dried foods?

One mistake that happens a lot is forgetting to remove the oxygen absorbing packet that most meals have to keep them fresh. These packets typically contain an iron powder that absorbs oxygen and moisture (3). Although safe to keep freeze dried foods fresh, they are not safe for human consumption. The other common mistake is adding too much (or too little) boiling water to reheat and re hydrate the food.

How long do freeze dried foods last?

It largely depends on the brand, but some freeze dried foods have a shelf life that exceeds 25 years.

What’s the difference between ‘freeze dried’ and ‘dehydrated’?

The major differences between freeze dried foods and dehydrated foods are that freeze dried foods contain far less moisture while still retaining more nutrients than their dehydrated counterparts.

Summary

Proper nutrition is always important when you’re spending any extended amount of time away from your home kitchen. But on top of that, we know that you deserve to eat delicious, healthy food on each and every one of your adventures. That’s why we hope you’ve enjoyed this collection of the best freeze dried foods and we wish you the best of luck selecting the ones you’ll enjoy on your next trip!

  Via https://bestsurvival.org/best-freeze-dried-food/

source http://bestsurvivalus.weebly.com/blog/ranking-the-10-best-freeze-dried-foods-of-2018

[rayanrooke]

Ranking The 10 Best Semi Automatic Shotguns of 2018

Semi-automatic shotguns tend to outperform others because they can fire quicker and require less shooter movement for follow-up shots. The fact that they rely on as or recoil operating action also helps to reduce recoil. Other shotgun varieties can also be more prone to malfunction due to fouling.

If you’re searching for a new shotgun, our list of the Top Ten Semi-Automatic Shotguns will help you narrow down your options so you can make the best choice for your needs. Also, be sure to read through our Buyer’s Guide and Frequently Asked Questions sections for all the information you need to make an educated decision.

1. Benelli M2 Tactical

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This is an excellent lightweight semi-automatic shotgun designed for fast-handling and rugged performance. It is built around the reliable Inertia Driven system, which allows 12-gauge and 20-gauge M2s to cycle nearly any cartridge, from target loads to heavy 3-inch magnums.

The Benelli M2 Tactical includes the trademarked ComforTech recoil-reduction system with gel recoil and combo pads. This system significantly dampens recoil by up to 48 percent, as well as decreasing muzzle jump. This semi-automatic shotgun also includes a fiber optic red-bar front sight, a set of shims to customize the gun’s drop and cast, and C, IC, M, IM, and F Crio choke tubes.

2. Beretta A300 Outlander

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The Beretta A300 Outlander is a showcase of Beretta’s legendary performance and sleek design capability. It features only four major components, which means it can be disassembled quickly in the field or at the range. The gun’s compensating gas valve and self-cleaning piston guarantee smooth, reliable operation.

This semi-automatic shotgun boasts a lightweight, Mallard Green anodized aluminum-alloy receiver that handles 2.75-inch and 3-inch shells. It comes with a matte-black synthetic stock with an adjustable length-of-pull and adjustable shim system designed to withstand rain, snow, dust, and mud. It also features a fitted rubber recoil pad, cross-bolt safety, and mobile choke system with three choke tubes.

3. Remington Versa Max Competition

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This semi-automatic shotgun features Remington’s revolutionary VersaPort gas system to ensure reliable cycling for any load, anywhere, at any time. It’s built to last with the receiver, barrel, and internal components all being nickel-plated for extreme corrosion resistance.

The Remington Versa Max Competition disassembles easily for rapid cleaning. It offers an enlarged feeding port, bolt-closure button, cocking handle, trigger-guard opening, and cross-bolt safety for ease of use. It also boasts an adjustable XS rear rifle sight, HiViz interchangeable sights, and length-of-pull kit, as well as a fully adjustable stock.

4. Mossberg 930 SPX Tactical

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The Mossberg 930 SPX Tactical is an excellent semi-automatic shotgun for close quarter situations. It comes with an 18.5-inch barrel and fixed, tubular magazine. Magazine extensions allow for a 7-round (plus one in the chamber) capacity and it comes with a plain muzzle.

This 12-gauge semi-automatic shotgun features a full-length black synthetic stock with a pistol grip and a top rail-mounted XS ghost ring rear sight with an M16-style fiber optic front. It also boasts a total length of 39-inches and is available with a tan or black metal finish.

5. Stoeger 3500

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The well-known Stoeger 3500 semi-automatic shotgun offers magnum performance and reliability at a value-driven price. This shotgun features Stoeger’s Inertia Driven operating system, which assuredly cycles through 2.75-inch, 3-inch, and 3.5-inch shells for maximum versatility in the field or at the range.

This semi-automatic shotgun comes with a red-bar fiber-optic sight to help you quickly and easily acquire targets, even in low light conditions. It also included a stock-integrated recoil reducer, a receiver drilled and tapped for Weaver-style scope bases, three choke tubes, and a choke tube wrench.

6. Browning A5 Hunter

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This 12-gauge semi-automatic shotgun boasts the iconic humpback profile. It is designed to be the most reliable, fastest cycling, best performing, and softest shooting recoil operated autoloader available. It is balanced from buttpad to muzzle to feel light in your hands and make target acquisition fast and easy.

The Browning A5 Hunter features the A5 receiver, which seamlessly melds into the rib to extend your sight plane and aid in target alignment for more accurate shooting. It also features a comfortable grip and a compact and narrow forearm that places your front hand closer to the bore line for superior hand-eye coordination.

7. Mossberg 930 JM Pro

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The Mossberg 930 JM Pro is built to the exact specifications or world-renowned competitive and speed shooter Jerry Miculek (JM) (1). It is equipped with a high-capacity, nine-round extended magazine tube that’ll keep you in action longer and a beveled loading gate and shorter forend to help you load faster than the competition.

This semi-automatic shotgun also includes a barrel clamp to yield maximum stabilization and a dual gas system that reduces felt recoil and increases ease of cycling. Finally, it features an over sized bolt handle and bolt release, logo-engraved receiver, front fiber-optic sight, and extended charging handle.

8. Winchester SX4 Field CMPT

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The Winchester SX4 Field semi-automatic shotgun features a satin oil-finished walnut stock with classic-cut checkering. It is designed for a more controlled feel and perfect balance, with a slimmer and lighter pistol grip and forearm. It boasts a super light alloy magazine tube and recoil spring system that serve to further reduce its overall weight.

This semi-automatic shotgun is equipped with a new lightweight barrel that provides a narrower profile and a machined vent rib. It also boasts back-bored technology that provides optimum shot patterns and a hard chrome-plated chamber and bore that are both highly resistant to wear and corrosion. Finally, this gun offers a larger bolt handle and bolt release button, a lightweight aluminum-alloy receiver, and a removable drop-out trigger for easy cleaning.

9. Benelli Super Black Eagle 3

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Like the M2 Tactical, this semi-automatic shotgun is equipped with the proven Inertia Driven system that shoots 2.75-inch, 3-inch, and 3.5-inch shells without adjustment. Material improvements in this model have resulted in one of the most lightweight semi-automatics on the market. In fact, it weighs between 13 and 15 percent less than similar shotguns.

The Benelli Super Black Eagle 3 includes a third-generation ComforTech 3 stock and recoil pad with extra-soft cheek pad that reduces recoil by as much 48% and muzzle climb by 15%. It accomplishes this without any additional moving parts or added weight. It also comes with a funneled loading port, two-piece shell latch, easy drop lever, ergonomic magazine cap, and a host of additional features.

10. FN SLP Mark I

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The FN SLP Mark I is a gas-operated 12-gauge semi-automatic shotgun with a 22-inch barrel and an 8+1 capacity. It is equipped with an alloy 3-inch magnum receiver and the barrel comes with the Standard Invector choke tube system to deliver optimum performance with any payload.

The metal work on this semi-automatic shotgun is protected by matte black manganese phosphate or anodizing to improve durability and reduce reflectivity. The gun’s matte black, checkered synthetic stock includes a premium recoil pad and steel sling swivel studs. Finally, this semi-automatic shotgun boasts an adjustable folding rear sight, red fiber-optic front sight element, and Weaver-pattern cantilever optics rail.

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Buyer’s Guide

While some of the earliest shotguns (called ‘breechloaders’) were employed by England’s King Henry VIII more than 450 years ago (2), today’s tactical semi-automatic shotguns hardly resemble their early ancestors, both in form and function. Materials have vastly improved and demands for increased functionality have led to some incredible breakthroughs.

As a buyer, the new technologies available in some of today’s best semi-automatic shotguns can be quite attractive. It’s important to remember what’s truly important when buying a new semi-automatic shotgun. To aid in your decision, this Buyer’s Guide will focus on several major factors you should consider before you buy.

Understanding the Action

With any shotgun, the spent shell must be ejected after firing before a second shot can be taken. In a pump-action shotgun, the user has to manual cock the gun to eject the spent shell and load up a new one. In semi-automatic shotguns, this action takes place automatically, greatly reducing the amount of time spent between shots.

Most semi-automatic shotguns use either a gas-driven system or an inertia-driven system to automatically eject a spent shell and load up a new one. In some cases, inertia systems are also referred to as ‘recoil-operated’ systems.

While both systems use energy to start the action and reload the gun, there are some important differences between how they operate. After ample experience with both, many shotgun owners come to prefer one or the other, but their ultimate choice largely comes down to personal preference and desired performance.

In a gas-driven system, the shotgun takes high-pressure gas that is released after firing and utilizes that to cycle the ammo. In an inertia-(or recoil) driven system, the shotgun utilizes kinetic energy from the recoil to perform the same operation. Although gas-driven systems tend to be more popular today, recent history suggests that the two systems have been widely employed for a variety of purposes.

Choosing the Gauge

Understanding gauge and what that means for functionality is an important part of choosing the right semi-automatic shotgun. You’ll find shotguns on the market today with a range of gauges falling between 10 and 28. For all intents and purposes, the most common shotguns available are 12, 20, and .410 gauges.

The perfect balance between power and accuracy that you’ll find with a 12-gauge shotgun is responsible for them being the most popular type of shotgun available today. Ammunition for 12-gauge shotguns is also the most readily accessible ammo out there.

The 20-gauge shotgun is the second most popular type on the market. A 20-gauge shotgun will perform very similarly to a 12-gauge, but it will offer a greatly reduced recoil level. For this reason, 20-gauge shotguns are increasingly popular amongst younger and smaller shooters.

The newbie on the scene is the .410-gauge shotgun. It features an even further reduced recoil level when compared with most 20-gauge shotguns. However, what you improve from a recoil standpoint comes with a caveat. It’s much more difficult to get the best shot with a .410-gauge because its ammo contains fewer pellets per shot. The translation means that the .410 is considerably less powerful.

Best Barrel Length

Choosing the best barrel length depends on your exact intended purpose for buying a semi-automatic shotgun. In general, longer barrels are better for long-range shooting and shorter barrels are more effective in close quarters.

If you’ll primarily be using your semi-automatic shotgun for long-range purposes, you’ll want a barrel length somewhere in the range of 24 to 36 inches. While a longer barrel means better accuracy and precision over long distances, keep in mind that it also means decreased maneuverability in a dense forest and increased overall gun weight.

If you intend to use your semi-automatic shotgun in close quarters or for home defense, you’ll want a barrel in the 18 to 21-inch range. These barrels will still be accurate enough for your intended purpose, but not so big that they’re too heavy or cumbersome to operate. 

Selecting Stock

The type of stock you choose for your semi-automatic shotgun will play a large role in your comfort with the gun. As such, it largely impacts whether or not you’re actually able to use the gun effectively to fire accurate shots. In short, you need a shotgun to feel good in your hands and in the shooting position if you want it to work for you.

Most shotguns today offer a “classic grip” stock or a “pistol grip” stock. Most classic grip stocks are made of wood and contain a curved grip that helps you keep the gun steady as you take aim. In contrast, pistol grip stocks are usually made from some type of durable plastic polymer. This material keeps the gun lightweight, and the pistol grip is better designed for holding with a single hand when not shooting.

When selecting the right stock for you, there is also a variety of features to consider, including the length of pull, comb, drop, pitch, and the material used to construct the stock. Ideally, you’re looking for a stock that is both lightweight and extremely durable.

Types of Cartridges

Considering the types of cartridges you’ll use is also important before you buy a new semi-automatic shotgun. Some guns will only work with a certain type of cartridge and if those cartridges are tough to find, you won’t be able to use the gun as much as you’d hope. As we mentioned earlier, 12-gauge ammunition is the most common today, so you really can’t go wrong there.

That being said, there are three distinct types of cartridges that are best used in varying scenarios. They are birdshot, buckshot, and slugs. As you might imagine, birdshot is utilized for hunting birds and other small game. Shell size can vary from small to large, as can the number of pellets contained within each shell, but these cartridges are excellent for hunting waterfowl.

Buckshot is much like birdshot in that each shell contains a number of smaller pellets. In this case, however, the pellets themselves are much larger. Inversely, buckshot shells tend to contain fewer pellets overall. However, because of their size, these pellets are more powerful and capable of inflicting greater damage. This makes them a great choice for hunting deer and other large game.

Lastly, we have slugs. Unlike buckshot and birdshot, where shells contain multiple pellets, a slug is a single large projectile. Slugs pack a devastating punch and are the most powerful of the three. For this reason, they are a preferred choice for hunting large game in populated areas.

When it comes to the length of cartridges, many of these semi-automatic shotguns are compatible with a number of lengths from 2.75 inches to 3.5 inches. The main benefit of a longer shell is that they hold more shot for cleaner long-range kills. The downside, however, is that longer shells tend to be considerably more expensive than shorter versions of the same model.

Types of Choke Tubes

A choke tube works to constrict a shotgun’s shot charge in order to hold it together longer before the shot spreads. This functions to provide a denser shot pattern at a longer range. Choke tubes also play a role in determining a shotgun’s effective range. In general, more constriction means a greater range. There are six common types of choke tubes: super-full (or extra-full), full, modified, improved cylinder, cylinder, and skeet.

Super-full (or extra-full) choke tubes are ideally suited for the headshots that you’ll need when turkey hunting. As such, they are commonly referred to as “gobbler getters.” They provide extra-tight constriction and the densest shot patterns.

Full choke tubes also have a tight constriction and dense pattern. They are capable of delivering about 70 percent of a shell’s total pellets in a 30-inch circle from 40 yards out. This makes them a great choice for trap shooting, waterfowl pass shooting, turkey hunting, and buckshot loads.

Modified choke tubes have less constriction than a full choke, but are still capable of delivering about 60 percent of a shell’s total pellets in a 30-inch circle from 40 yards. The best uses for modified choke tubes are in hunting distant-flushing upland birds and small game animals like pheasants and rabbits.

Improved cylinder choke tubes are even less constricted than modified tubes. They will deliver about half of a shell’s total pellets in a 30-inch circle at 40 yards distance. They are the preferred choice of hunters shooting waterfowl close over decoys or in pursuits of close-quarters upland birds like quail and grouse. Improved cylinder choke tubes also perform well with rifled slugs.

Cylinder choke tubes offer no constriction. They can deliver approximately 40 percent of a shell’s total pellets in a 30-inch circle at 40 yards. These types of choke tubes are most commonly used by law enforcement for service shotguns.

Lastly, we have skeet choke tubes. These tubes deliver about 50 percent of a shell’s total pellets in a 30-inch circle at a distance of 25 yards. As their name suggests, these tubes are optimized for the tight patterns necessary for close-range skeet shooting.

Frequently Asked Questions

John Browning and his brothers built the first testing models of the semi-automatic shotgun in 1898 (3). Although an avid gunman well before the invention of the A5, Browning would later admit that it was “the most difficult gun to design of his career.”

Today’s guns feature even more complex and intricate systems than Browning’s earliest designs. Keeping that in mind, we’ve designed this Frequently Asked Questions section to help you better understand the inner workings of today’s best semi-automatic shotguns.

What is ‘length-of-pull’?

Length-of-pull refers to the distance between the center of the trigger and the center of the recoil pad on the butt of the stock where it contacts your shoulder.

What is ‘comb’?

The comb of a shotgun is the widest part of the stock that is encompassed by your cheek and shoulder.

What is ‘drop’?

Drop is defined as the distance between the top of the comb to the center point of the butt that helps determine the elevation of your eye in relation to the barrel. Too much drop will cause the user to shoot low and too little drop will cause you to shoot high.

What is ‘pitch’?

Pitch refers to the angle that the butt has against your shoulder when mounted. It is a very important factor because too much pitch will cause the butt to dig into your shoulder, which will make recoil feel worse than it actually is. On the other hand, too little pitch will allow the gun to slide up and down with every shot.

What is a ‘back-bored barrel’?

A back-bored barrel is a shotgun barrel with an internal diameter great than nominal for the gauge, but still less than the SAAMI (4) maximum. This is done to reduce felt recoil, improve patterning, or change the balance of the gun.

What is a gun’s ‘receiver’?

The receiver is the part of the shotgun that houses all of its critical operating parts.

What is ‘fouling’?

Fouling refers to the accumulation of unwanted material on solid surfaces. The fouling material can consist of powder, lubrication residue, or bullet materials, such as lead or copper.

What is a ‘charging handle’?

This term defines a device on a shotgun (or another firearm) that, when operated, results in the hammer or striker being cocked or moved to the ready position.

Summary

The right semi-automatic shotgun will improve your hunting accuracy or help you defend your property against unwanted intruders. We hope you’ve found this review of the best semi-automatic shotguns useful and we wish you the best of luck in choosing the one that’s right for you!

Via https://bestsurvival.org/best-semi-auto-shotgun/

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