O2 Tactical TR2 Tactical Mask Respirator Review

Survival

survival

-

January 8, 2021

O2 Tactical TR2 Tactical Mask Respirator Review

Before wearing “masks” was cool and going out in public without one was considered rebellious, there were plenty of professions that required protecting one’s lungs from the operating environment. While mask wearing used to suggest catastrophic disasters like nuclear fallout, or chemical warfare, things like mold, lead, and more every-day hazards have long persisted as mankind remains breathing. Just as some are interested in tactical theater, so others choose to take their training and development seriously, and where both meet might be respirators. Recent short films like SCP: Overlord or full features such as Tenet have used tactical masks as both a plot point, and a narrative tool, and for years there has been a challenge regarding wearing a mask: how are you supposed to shoulder a rifle with something attached to your face? The O2 Tactical TR2 answers the question of the tactical mask problem.

Above: Don’t be mistaken, these two are not the same.

On a scale of a strip of cloth to full MOPP 4, the O2 Tactical TR2 fits solidly in the middle. It provides protection against airborne agents, but isn’t meant for situations involving biochemical warfare. However comparing this kind of respirator is not quite an apples-to-oranges situation, but limes-to-lemons. Though they look similar, only one should go in curry.

Fit

With all this talk of masks, one might imagine it a conspiracy against beards. Typically Respirators don’t play well with facial hair, a deal breaker against those who prefer maintaining a 5-week shadow of “operator scruff.” The O2 Tactical TR2, however, doesn’t suffer the same way. Fitting over and around the mouth and nose, with the bottom of the seal resting between the front of the chin and the bottom lip, it doesn’t require a clean shaven face to work.

Securing to the face via a 2-strap system: one behind the neck and another across the crown, the O2 Tactical TR2 integrates with ear and eye protection. Worn in conjunction with a Ballistic Helmet, Night Vision, and Peltor Comtac 3’s must be a deliberate choice, as the order of putting on the gear doesn’t happen quickly, and must follow a certain order. Mask First, everything else after. Once set and adjusted, the respirator maintains consistent but not uncomfortable pressure even when keeping that head on a swivel.

The mask remains secure even through dynamic movement, and setting the proper tension takes only a few tries to become natural. Once this is done, it’s design begins to shine. When shouldering a rifle, the mask may bump up against the stock, moreso with a loose cheek weld, but it doesn’t impede the shooter from a normal shooting posture. The combination of right-handed shooter, Law Tactical Folding Stock Adapter, and a fully collapsed stock created the closest thing a possible problem, as the front of the respirator would occasionally hit the adapter hinge. Though it should be known that we were deliberately looking for ways to create issues when shooting with the mask on.

Quality of Life

For many, the quest for less gas blown back while shooting suppressed is their holy grail, for others, it’s a fact of life they’ve learned to deal with. The O2 Tactical TR2 respirator mitigated any gas from being breathed in through either the nose or mouth, effectively reducing the stinging sensation of shooting a short barreled DI gun. A single mag dump no longer left the eyes watering, but it didn’t completely negate all discomfort.

Filtering out 99% of particles greater than 0.3 microns, the mask adds noticeable drag when drawing in a breath, but not nearly as much as a common painter’s respirator, or a true gas mask. Taking the mask to the gym, the reduced air flow affected aerobic performance by about 10% on a rowing machine, and the lack of oxygen could be felt when chaining exercises together. Over time, the effect increased, so that in the end even the bench press suffered.

Above: Without a Law Tactical Folder, shouldering a rifle pushes the TR2 out of the way without “breaking the seal.”

Concerned that the filter might freeze over in cold environments, we put on full kit, with an O2 Tactical TR2, and ran 200 meter laps in the snow taking shots between each full rotation. The Mask itself didn’t make the run any more fun, but never froze over in over an hour of use in roughly 20 degree Fahrenheit conditions. The inside of the make gathered condensation, but it never froze in such a way that blocked airflow. While the mask didn’t freeze, the run felt much more difficult than

The O2 Tactical TR2 doesn’t protect someone from mustard gas, but it will defend against long term dangers. It’s meant to be worn often, specifically in environments that don’t warrant a full suit but still have airborne hazards such as mold, lead, or dust. It takes one look at shooting a suppressed rifle indoors to reconsider the effects of lead poisoning, and recognize the long-term value of a respirator. With replaceable filters, and an easy to clean design, the TR2 meets this challenge face-first, pun intended.

Loud and Clear

Giving it an edge, the O2 Tactical TR2 respirator has an optional mic kit that integrates with Peltor Com Tac series. The sound quality itself being surprisingly good, communications both transmitting and receiving are thus muffled. This creates a situationally dependent advantage, and could be very useful with more surreptitious tactical entries, where the wearer is concerned about the air quality and remaining unheard when communicating with their team.

Taken into consideration the type of mission set a unit is tasked with, or the amount of shooting a competitor does indoors during winter months, both of these scenarios make sense as something to augment an already full suite of gear. Even if one is merely LARP-ing in their basement, this will help with that cardio they hate so much. Both true operators and their mimics stand to benefit from these respirators, but it’s certainly situational. Thankfully, both shooting and generally wearing the O2 Tactical TR2 are both comfortable.

Combining a beard-accepting fitment, both durable and lightweight construction, and it’s longevity, this respirator tackles a specific challenge with finesse, protecting the wearer without inhibiting them from using a firearm. For those seriously concerned with reducing lead levels, this mask accomplishes the task with finesse.

Website: https://www.o2tactical.com/products/tr2-tactical-respirator-ii

More on Masks and Respirators

Masks and Respirators for COVID-19.
Gas Masks 101.
What If We Are Hit By Another Pandemic? Planning Ahead.
Vaporwear: Gas Mask Buyer’s Guide.

Gear Up: New Survival Gear for January 2021

Survival

survival

-

January 8, 2021

0

Gear Up: New Survival Gear for January 2021

Arc’teryx Mantis 32

CAPACITY: 32 Liters (1,963 Cubic Inches)
MSRP: $169
URL: www.arcteryx.com

We’re fond of gear that looks commonplace in an urban setting but also excels in the backwoods or when SHTF. The Mantis 32 is one such pack. It works great as a commuter bag. It has a large main compartment, an internal sleeve to carry your laptop, two external sleeves for a travel mug or beanie, an admin section for your pens, keys, phone, multi-tool, and more. But it’s also ideal as a hiking daypack. The laptop sleeve can hold a hydration bladder while its padded back, frame sheet, and aluminum stay provide a comfortable chassis for hauling gear on treks that are longer than your daily commute. It’s a versatile pack with subdued good looks.

Gerber Compleat

COLOR: Burnt Bronze, Flat Sage, Onyx, Silver
MSRP: $29
URL: www.gerbergear.com

When camping, we’ll save cargo weight and space by packing free utensils we’ve collected at various fast-food restaurants. But they’re usually flimsy plastic, so we still need to pack tongs, ladles, spatulas … especially when planning to cook anything beyond hot dogs. That’s why we’re keen on the Compleat. It’s a four-in-one utensil set that — while consisting of only a fork, spoon, spatula, and bottle-opener — can serve many more functions. It can be snapped together to form tongs, while the bottle-opener works as a veggie peeler, can opener, and package opener. It’s made of high-temperature nylon with silicone overmold. The parts nest together to stow as a single, 7.75-inch-long piece that weighs no more than 2.3 ounces.

Nutrient Survival Creamy Chocolate Shake

WEIGHT: 2 pounds, 7 ounces
MSRP: $55
URL: www.nutrientsurvival.com

Why does postapocalyptic food have to be so boring and bland? Nutrient Survival certainly doesn’t think it should be. That’s why this Nevada-based company is producing food and beverages that aren’t just long-lasting but also taste good and are good for you. Take for example its Creamy Chocolate Shake. It’s packed with goodness: 14 vitamins, 14 minerals, 9 amino acids, Omega-3, Omega-6, and fiber. Plus, it doesn’t contain soy, gluten, or artificial colors. To make a shake for yourself, just blend two scoops of it with milk or water. This 2-pound can contains 15 servings and has a 25-year shelf life.

Nutrient Survival is a fresh take on survival food, Read the Review Here.

Gear Aid Reflective Guyline Kit

WEIGHT: 2.44 ounces
MSRP: $13 / $12.95 on Amazon Here.
URL: www.gearaid.com

Whether you’re on uneven terrain or the wind is starting to kick up, it’s essential to be able to secure your tents and tarps. After all, when the weather’s not your friend, the last thing you want to be doing is setting up your shelter … again. That’s dangerous in frigid temps and demoralizing. This kit can help prevent that. Its 50-foot guyline is bright orange and comes with reflective accents so you won’t trip over them, even in low-light conditions. The four Mini Line Tensioners help you adjust the cord to make sure your lines don’t sag or loosen. Plus, the 2mm line can be used in other creative ways — as a clothesline, bear bag hanger, or a replacement bootlace.

Element Case Black Ops X3

COMPATIBLE WITH: iPhone 12, iPhone 12 Pro, and iPhone 12 Pro MaX
MSRP: $250
URL: www.elementcase.com

No, that price tag isn’t a typo. Yes, this phone case costs two and a half C-notes. But if you’ve just spent a grand on an iPhone 12 Pro, you can probably afford to invest in an overbuilt case. The Black Ops X3 has a sliding lens cover to protect your camera. Its four-layer armor features G10, polycarbonate, hard-anodized aluminum, and thermoplastic polyurethane to absorb impact and dissipate energy. It has convenient features like a kickstand for easy video viewing and a removable wallet that holds up to three credit cards — with the deep pocket clip also serving as a money clip. On top of all that, it has a built-in glass breaker for emergencies.

Halfbreed Blades LBK-01

WEIGHT: 1 pound, 1 once
MSRP: $300
URL: www.halfbreedblades.com.au

One look at this bad boy and you just can’t help but say the iconic line, “That’s not a knife. That’s a knife.” Made in Australia from D2 tool steel and ergonomic Micarta handle scales, the LBK-01 is a beast. While D2 isn’t our favorite blade steel and isn’t quite stainless, it does offer outstanding strength, hardness, and wear resistance — attributes you need for a large bush knife. Plus, the LBK-01 does come out of the box razor sharp, and its modified drop-point blade is great for a variety of tasks, from slicing and thrusting to chopping and carving. It comes with an excellent Kydex sheath, which includes a fire steel and integrated holder. The LBK-01 would make Crocodile Dundee proud.

Knog Bilby

COLORS: Black, Fluro Orange, Putty Grey, Violet Blue
MSRP: $60
URL: www.knog.com

The Knog Bilby is a fresh take on the headlamp genre. Its body and strap are medical-grade silicone that’s comfortable, easy to clean, and adjustable using a simple toggle. Next is its USB-
integrated lighting pod that can be removed from the silicone body. There are no cables to untangle or break. Just detach the pod and plug it into a USB-A port to get a full charge in four hours. Lastly, with a max output of 400 lumens, the pod’s five LEDs each serve a purpose: one for high beam, one for reading, two for mid and wide angles, and a red light for maintaining night vision. If you download Knog’s mobile app, you can increase the modes from six to eight, further customizing it for your needs.

Superesse Illumination Patch Kit

DIMENSIONS: 3 by 2 inches
MSRP: $26
URL: www.superessestraps.com

This innovative kit’s centerpiece is the morale patch, which glows in the dark and has a Velcro backing for easy attachment to your hat or pack’s loop panel. Next is the Brite-Strike APALS, which inserts into the patch and produces a 25-lumen white light that can be seen up to a mile away. It has three modes: constant-on (35 hours max), fast strobe (100 hours max), and slow strobe (200 hours max). The weatherproof and shockproof APALS’ LED shines through a window in the patch and can be activated with a “power button” graphic on the patch. Rounding out the kit are two micro chem sticks, which have a two-year shelf life and can be used for low-light tasks, signaling, or marking a trail.

Good To-Go Chicken Pho and Cuban Rice Bowl

WEIGHT: 3.4 ounces per package
MSRP: $8 each
URL: www.goodto-go.com

In a world of constipation-inducing MREs, Good To-Go is one of the few companies producing quality backpacking foods that have long shelf lives and are easy to make in the field. So, we were jazzed to try its latest meals: Chicken Pho and Cuban Rice Bowl. Do they taste like the real deals? Nope. But, hey, the good news is that they’re better than eating cardboard-like ration bars or hardtack. The best part is they last for two years unopened, and they’re convenient to cook — you just need boiling water and about 10 minutes. Each serving comes packed with a good number of calories, carbs, and protein — all of which you’ll need in a survival situation.

Hults Bruk Agdor 28

WEIGHT: 3.8 pounds
MSRP: $108
URL: www.hultsbruk1697.se

Like many Scandinavian companies that make edged tools, Hults Bruk produces axes that meld Nordic traditions with modern sensibilities. The Agdor 28 features a handle that’s, well, 28 inches long and made of American hickory. Though it doesn’t have the smoothest finish, the classic handle provides good balance and ergonomics for two-handed swings. Up top, the 2.5-pound hand-forged head is hard, durable, and (most importantly) sharp. At 4 pounds with an old-school leather sheath, the Agdor is not a bug-out tool by any means. But if you’ve got room, you won’t regret packing it in your RV, off-road rig, or garage because it makes for an affordable camp ax or backyard tool.

Rite in the Rain Land Nav Kit

DIMENSIONS: 8.375 by 6.5 by 1 inches
MSRP: $100
URL: www.riteintherain.com

Teaming up with Battle Board, Rite in the Rain recently released the Land Nav Kit. It comes with a Tactical Field Book that has 160 weatherproof pages, which includes reference materials like rulers, charts, and map scales. Next up is the All-Weather Metal Pen, which has a pressurized black-ink cartridge that can write underwater, upside down, and in extreme temperatures (from -30 degrees F to 250 degrees F). Both paper and pen come in a zippered book cover, which is made from Cordura fabric and has a polycarbonate display on the front cover so you can insert maps and write on them with grease pencils or map markers. It also has internal storage, including a large pocket and four slots for writing instruments.

First Lite Fuse Zip Off Boot Top

COLORS: Various, including Ash Grey, Black, and Dry Earth
MSRP: $95
URL: www.firstlite.com

Wool is Mother Nature’s super fabric. In the summer, it is quick drying and moisture wicking. In the winter, it provides superior insulation, even when wet. And regardless of the climate, wool is breathable and odor-resistant. So, it makes perfect sense to make a pair of long johns out of sheep’s clothing. But when a chilly morning gives way to milder afternoons — especially a long hike through the backcountry — sometimes you’ll want to shed some layers. The Fuse Zip Off Boot Top lets you take off your base layer without having to take off your boots and hop out of your pants. Thanks to integrated zippers, you can remove these long johns easily in the field while keeping your boots on.

WALKUSA’S ADVENTURE SERIES: HOW TO LIGHTEN YOUR BACKPACK

Adventure

Edward Mjelde

-

April 16, 2017

0

WALKUSA’S ADVENTURE SERIES: HOW TO LIGHTEN YOUR BACKPACK

Introduction

My name is Edward Mjelde, I am a 24 year old recent college graduate from sunny San Diego, California. This is my story about how I gave away and sold nearly all my possessions and left home with a backpack to walk coast-to-coast across the country following the 5,100 mile American Discovery Trail in pursuit of beauty, truth, and a life of risk and adventure. My goal is to share the knowledge I have gathered from my adventure in hope that it will inspire people to take risks in order to chase their own dreams and aspirations. I have dubbed my epic adventure as WalkUSA, ”A Walk to Discover America and its People”.

Catch a glimpse of what it’s like walking across America with the first video compilation of my adventure! Current Article Summary In this article I will be discussing lightweight backpacking and give tips on how you can reduce your pack weight by removing items you can do without, reducing the three heaviest backpacking systems, and considering dual use of equipment. Previous Article Summary In my previous article I explained the steps I took to prepare and educate myself about backpacking and share the incredible stories of the people who helped me figure out what to expect when attempting a trip across the country. Interested in some of the sources I used to learn lightweight backpacking techniques and philosophy? Click Here to Check It Out! Why go Lightweight?

Traveling lightweight has created a more wholesome backpacking experience without sacrificing my safety and comfort.

There are many reasons to go lightweight, here are some that come to mind:

Longer distances Faster Travel Less fatigue/ Fewer injuries Greater free range of mobility Comfort Simplicity Stronger connection with nature

People may be turned off by the idea of backpacking due to negative thoughts about the burden of a heavy pack. When buying backpacking gear major outlets will encourage you to buy items as a “must have” in your backpacking kit, which are simply not necessary. You have the ability to obtain all the benefits above while still traveling in safety and comfort, the secret is in learning a few skills and understanding optimal uses and limitations of the gear you carry. What is Light Weight Backpacking?

Many nights when weather is good I find using a water resistant bivy on top of a polycryo ground cloth meets my needs.

Lightweight backpacking is about building the lightest and simplest backpacking system that is safely possible for a given trip. In discussing the weight of a kit, backpacker’s use the term “base weight” to describe a bags weight with all equipment without counting in food, water, and fuel. In traditional backpacking its not uncommon to see base weights over 30 pounds. Lightweight base weights are below 20 pounds and ultralight kits are under 10 pounds. Today there is an ongoing lightweight and ultralight movement that was largely popularized by climber Ray Jardine in the 90’s who laid the initial foundations for the techniques that lightweight backpackers use today. More recently, hikers like Andrew Surka and Ryan Jordan have dove even deeper into the discipline and philosophy, writing books and initiating discussion amongst groups of hikers who together are continuing to take lightweight backpacking down to a science. There are a number of manufactures who are starting to come on board to supply lightweight and ultralight gear. Some larger suppliers for example are Golite and Gossamer Gear who develop lightweight and ultralight backpacking solutions and a wide variety of cottage manufactures like Zpacks who design and distribute lightweight tarps and backpacks. Large box retailers are starting to catch on to the demand as well. REI is starting to introduce lighter gear, many that have been given the title of “ultralight”, although much of their assortment is still embellished with comfort features that place the equipment away from the core of minimalist gear. However, it is a step in the direction and I wouldn’t be surprised to see further steps in the future. Where To Begin? Lose Items You Can Do Without

Choosing what gear you bring and what you leave at home is essential.

Do you need that camp chair? Do you need all that extra clothing? Do you need dishes and a full utensil kit? Do you know how to use all the items in your first-aid kit? Do you need that extra pair of shoes? Removing unnecessary gear is a great first step in lightening your backpacks load. For example instead of carrying extra cloths, I take only what is necessary for the conditions I am expecting during my travels. My clothing kit: Smartwool Marino Wool Long Sleve (12oz) Kuhn Liberator Convertible Pants (12oz) Ecofficio Give and Go Boxers (3oz) (2 pairs) Darn Tough Marino Wool Socks (5.8oz) Baseball Cap (3oz) Arc’teryx Alpha SL Pull Over Rain Jacket (13oz) Marmot Preclip Full Zip Rain Pants (12oz) Patagonia Houdini Wind Shirt (3.5oz) Total Weight 64.3oz/4.02 pounds This clothing system outlines all the clothing I bring, including what I wear, typcially for late winter/early spring weather. I have taken this clothing system into the 30’s and have been comfortable. In warmer weather I can travel with less. I carry a set of rain gear that is on the heavier side of things, but I enjoy being able to walk in comfort during storms. Depending on your needs, you may be able to reach a weight much less that what I have posted here. Choosing fibers that are naturally antibacterial, like Marino wool, can help minimalize odor. Clothing can also be cleaned along your travels if water is present. Choosing fast drying clothing makes this especially easy. I have had some say to me “Traveling with one pair of boxers, that is disgusting!”. I argue that it is not, because I take the liberty to remain hygienic and to clean my cloths while I travel. Rinsing your cloths with just water, no soap, does a fairly good job at washing away the daily grime. Leaving behind extra clothing is just one way to reduce your pack weight. Look at what you are carrying and identify unnecessary items, this is a great place to start in reducing the overall weight of your backpack. Reduce The Big Three There are three main systems that lightweight backpackers reduce in order to make the most substantial improvement in their pack weight. These are your shelter system, sleeping system, and backpack. Shelter System Do you need the double wall shelter on a three day trip with mostly sunshine and possibly a medium rain storm? Probably not. Many lightweight backpackers decided to use tarps instead of fully enclosed tents. I enjoy tarps because they are more lightweight, consume less space inside my backpack, and produce better views than a fully enclosed tent which allows me to connect deeper with the area around me.

Some lightweight backpackers choose to create their own gear to their own specifications. For example here is the tarp that I created using 1.3oz Ripstop Siliconized Nylon.

When using tarps as a shelter there are a few skills that are required in order to be prepared when you hit the trail such as practice in pitching the tarp, knowledge of a few knots, and proper campsite selection. There are many articles online on these topics that can be brought up with a simple Google search and if you stay tuned to my series I’ll be covering this information. If you would like to know more about various light weight shelter options check out the following article I wrote which describes some of the popular choices that are available. Click Here To Check It Out Sleeping System To reduce the weight of the sleeping system you may consider a down sleeping bag instead of heaver synthetic alternatives. Down is typically warmer, more compact, and lighter. One drawback is that they lose their loft when wet and can be hard to dry out. However, this draw back is starting to be reduced as new types of down, such as Downtek, become water resistant. You may also consider using a quilt instead of a mummy bag to save weight. The logic is that when laying on the underside of the insulation of a sleeping bag you compress the material which loses its ability to trap the bodies head. Essentially the underside of a mummy bag becomes deadweight, a quilt covers only the top of the body to save from carrying the extra weight.

Lightweight blow-up pads are becoming popular with lightweight backpackers. Not only are they comfortable, durable, and great insulators. — Lightweight blow-up pads are becoming popular with lightweight backpackers. They are comfortable, durable, and great insulators.

To insulate the underside of the body and to keep the ground from stealing your precious body heat, insulated foam or lightweight blow up pads can be used. There are many different options that come in different sizes and weights, and I believe that it is truly up to the user preferences on what system they choose. I personally use a Neoair ThermoRest blow-up (16oz) and couldn’t be happier with my sleep. The pad has last me beyond a thru-hike and still continues to serve me without any problems. Backpack Once when you start omitting unnecessary items and reducing items weights, you will start to find that you need less space and less support in your backpack. No longer do you need to haul a 6-pound- bomb-proof back with hip belt stabilizers, lifter straps, and sternum straps.

In fact, if you get your pack weight down enough (base weight below 15 pounds) you may be able to find it comfortable using a bag that has no support system, where instead you can use your sleeping pad in what they call a “virtual frame “. However be weary, loads that exceed 20 pounds without a frame can become uncomfortable. Before making a selection on your backpack understand what you will be carrying first. A rule of thumb is to avoid buying a pack that is under 16oz, frame or frameless. A bag that is at comes in at this weight may be impractical for carrying proper amounts of food and that its fabrics may not have the seam strength that is durable enough to take practical loads. I use the Gossamer Gear Gorilla Ultralight Backpack, which I find very comfortable. It has a total of 46L capacity and weighs in at 28oz. Dual Use Another important aspect of lightweight backpacking is considering what items you can take that serve more than one purpose to save weight.

One piece of equipment I have come across that is neat is the Backcountry Boiler by Boilerwerks (8oz), an ultralight chimney kettle that uses natural fuel that can also double up as a water storage container when using a rubber stopper.

A popular example is the Poncho tarp, a tarp tent that can also be used as rain gear. Also, many people who use tarp tents also use their trekking poles to pitch their tarps so they do not have to carry poles. Some people like to use emergency Mylar blankets as ground sheets for their tarps as well (though some complain of its sound and durability). Conclusion

Enjoying the full benefits of a lightweight kit!

Having a lighter backpack can help lead to a more wholesome experience while backpacking. To reduce your backpack it is important to limit the unnecessary items that you carry, reduce the weight of your shelter, sleeping, and backpack systems, and consider the dual use of the items you carry. Using these tips you can dramatically reduce the weight of your backpack. Through knowing your gear and it’s limitations you can safely travel lighter without reducing your comfort or safety.

Color Night Vision

Gear Reviews & Testing

survival

-

April 12, 2017

0

A Las Vegas-based company called SPI has a color night vision sensor called the X27 and has the X28 in Development. The 1.5-minute video above shows what the 10-megapixel sensor can capture in extremely dark places. According to SPI The X27 is the highest performing true gen 4 color night vision low light sensor imaging system. The low noise real time 60hz HD detector is the first of its kind breakthrough technology that offers day like imagery in the darkest of environments. The X27 color low light camera images from 390 to 1.2 Um and sees IR military spot lasers. The Sensitivity outperforms the latest image intensified tube night vision technology and does so in full color. The X27 is available in hand held imaging systems and camera core engines for integration into military grade day/night imaging system

Night vision comparison Shootout video

Check out these Conqueror UEV compact go anywhere camping trailers, would you use one?

SurvivalMagazine

-

July 6, 2014

0

We recently found these guys and their line of compact go anywhere campers. We were truly amazed at the utilization of space, seems like they thought of everything. Like & Share if you’d try one out. The UEV-440 is a true Jack of all trades; it offers the maneuverability and capability of a camper trailer as well as caravan benefits such as a hard roof, sides and floor. The 440 has a number of sleeping arrangements, you can simply fold out the front & side for 2x double beds, fold out one side for 1x double bed and 1x single, or to escape adverse conditions 2x single beds are always instantly available without any setup at all. With luxuries such as a diesel hot water system, shower, fridge/freezer, full kitchen complete with cutlery and crockery and even a flat screen DVD player enjoy roughing it in luxury in this unique off-road camper. http://youtu.be/XxvfDTaUVAo http://youtu.be/AzeorS8NCUU http://youtu.be/UtQ96aV8TqQ Conqueror

WalkUSA’s Adventure Series: Planning

Adventure

Edward Mjelde

-

March 24, 2014

0

WalkUSA’s Adventure Series: Planning

Introduction

Catch a glimpse of what it’s like walking across America with the first video compilation of my adventure!

My name is Edward Mjelde, I am a 24 year old recent college graduate from sunny San Diego, California. This is my story about how I gave away and sold nearly all my possessions and left home with a backpack to walk coast-to-coast across the country following the 5,100 mile American Discovery Trail in pursuit of beauty, truth, and a life of risk and adventure. My goal is to share the stories I have gathered from my adventure in hope that it will inspire people to take risks in order to chase their own dreams and aspirations. I have dubbed my epic adventure as WalkUSA, ”A Walk to Discover America and its People”.

Article Summary

In this article I explain the steps I took to prepare and educate myself about my journey and share the incredible stories of the people who helped me figure it out. I will share how I prepared myself with primary information, expert knowledge, and provide the process I went through in preparing my guide book and maps.

In my last article I introduced myself and shared the story on how I came up with my cross-country backpacking adventure, I explained how I physically prepared for my journey, and delivered some tips that helped me achieve my fitness goals that might work for you. Feel free to catch up and read it by clicking here: WalkUSA’s Adventure Series: Physical Training

The Plan

In the back of my mind, I couldn’t help but think “Dude, why in the world did I tell people I was going to walk across the USA!?” I really had no clue on what walking across the country would really be like! Fortunately, obstacles like this get me excited, I love challenges. The moment the idea hit I began to surmount the problems. The silence in my room was broken from typing and tapping away on my computer keyboard, conducting a grand symphony of information. Google searching, Wikipedia reading, Article hunting and Blog sniffing, I tunneled my way through the information on a quest to get a snapshot of the big picture.

Somethings you just cant plan for like help from a stranger. Here some hospital people in Ohio allowed me to sleep a night in there tree-house. Comfy! — I could not plan for everything, especially all the help that I received from friendly strangers. Here some new friends in Ohio welcomed me to sleep in their tree-house for the night. It was nice to be above the land!

Primary Information

Immediately, I knew I needed the insight on others who have walked across America in order to get an understanding of what a long trip like this would be like. In my Google searches I came across three names that stuck out to me, George Throop, Peter Jenkins, and Jonah Boyer. These are the incredible people have helped me understand what I might encounter during my own walk and have added inspiration in my own adventure. Primary information about my walk across the country came from reading Peter Jenkins books and through following George Throop’s and Jonah Boyer’s adventures.

George Throop

George Throop is a cross-country walker who has just finished his journey last year after over three years on the road, and he still continues to walk. He walks in honor of his mother who died from cancer. His goal is to inspire others to live a healthily lifestyle and promotes that you can start by walking just 20 minutes a day. View the video above to hear his story. You can also view George Throop’s Website by clicking here: EnjoyTheWalk

Peter Jenkins

Peter Jenkins is a popular travel author who has inspired many people to get out and explore. A Walk Across America was the first book he wrote as an account of his cross-country adventure in his 20s. Fresh out of college he hiked across America with his dog Cooper, an Alaskan Malamute. He started in New York and hiked his way down to New Orleans, met and married his wife, and then turned north to finish in Florence, Oregon. Peter Jenkins still travels and writes, in fact he just finished a two year trip across America in an antique station wagon and plans to share his adventure in another book.

Jonah Boyer

Jonah was 19 years old when he started his adventure across the country which he titled “DudeTrek”. He just recently completed the American Discovery Trail (ADT) and is now planning on hiking the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT). I found out about Jonah after he had just started his hike on the ADT. I actually started WalkUSA while he was still continuing his adventure. Along the trail I would hear about him from those he encountered, read notes he lift in trail journals, and even stayed in the same houses with people who have invited him in along his travels.

If you want to learn about this young mans incredible adventure you can checkout his website by clicking here: dudetrek.com

Expert Knowledge

Following the stories about others was very inspirational and gave me drive, however I also knew I had to start acquiring the skills that would allow me to feel prepared and thrive during my adventure. The following three books are the titles that have helped me understand backpacking and survival principles.

SAS Survival Handbook The SAS Survival Handbook is a compressive survival book and digital application (Android and Apple) which details how to survive in dangerous situations. The book includes many photos and examples, is fun to read, and covers various topics. After reading the SAS Survival Handbook I felt much more prepared to take on problems I may encounter. I understood prevention, the signs of trouble, and had greater ability to recognize quickly my best survival options. The Advanced Backpacer: A Handbook of Year Round Long Distance Hiking The Ultimate Hiker’s Gear Guide by Andrew Skurka provides an overview of backpacking systems. He is thorough in describing the advantages and disadvantages of gear in clear language and charts. It’s a quick read loaded with information and also a great reference guide. When it came to selecting gear and knowing options this book was one of my greatest resources. Andrew Skurka is an amazing long distance backpacker and a huge inspiration. Check out his website by clicking here: Andrew Skurka’s Website Fixing Your Feet: Prevention and Treatments for Athletes Before leaving on my trip I did my due diligence to figure out what the main cause of hikers failing to complete their long distance goals. I found that overwhelming numbers of hikers quit because of foot related issues. Fixing Your Feet is a comprehensive look into foot care starting with the premise that prevention is the number one goal. I credit this book in helping me make great decisions for selecting foot related purchases and teaching prevention and first aid. Due to this book I have had zero foot related issues.

Preparing the Trail Guide

Many long distance trails have guides. Before leaving on my trip I prepared the guide book for my hike along the ADT using advice that I have gathered from backpacking experts. I did not know exactly what to expect during my journey, so I made every effort to provide myself with tools that I could use to make the planning process during my traveling be more effortless. The following video is the planning model that I used for my trip.

During my first month of walking I found my planning very helpful, however as I gained more confidence and knowledge of the trail-life I found that I could have been prepared doing less. With that said, I would never consider my planning process a waste of time, going through this extensive planning required a deeper look into the trail to identify problem spots which were much easier to solve at home with access to a computer. There are many ways to approach the planning process, the intent of this video is to help show one way of going about it and hopefully spark ideas.

Maps

Having a map and compass, and more importantly knowing how to use them, has saved me many times from getting into sticky situations. Map Sources Some great sources for online maps come from Google, USGS (http://www.usgs.gov/), and MyTopo (http://www.mytopo.com/). If it is important to have detailed information of the area you are traveling I recommend using 1:24,000 scale maps which are available on USGS and MyTopo. I also highly recommend using map resources at libraries, ranger stations, and state/national park websites. Finding resources from these providers usually creates less hassle then having to find maps from other resources and may also alert you about trail conditions. Digital Apps There are also a number of great apps for both Apple and Android, one of my favorite is Backpacker GPS Trails. Although it can run a little slow at times, it has the ability to overlay two different types of maps to reveal more detailed information about an area. You can also upload coordinate files to their website so trip plans can be pulled up on multiple devices easily. Maps can also be save for offline viewing, however it is limited in storage. For those who are seeking to find hiking trails around where they live I recommend the app AllTrails. It can be used to find a wide variety of hikes. One of my favorite features about it is that it compiles a lot of information about the trails including reviews, pictures, difficulty, and even may include map coordinates to the trailhead, very useful. Survival Note: Not all phones connect to GPS without a working phone signal, if you are expecting to use your phone as a navigation tool consult your providers network map in order to see if you will be in service.

While this isn’t Survival per say it can fall under homesteading and improving the simple way of life. We thought it was an amazing project and had to share! This post is by way of Dave Larnerd over at bow hunting, Thanks Dave great job! It took me just about 3 days, first day was digging the holes and setting the uprights. All the wood is pressure treated 6×6’s. Next day was finishing building it. and the 3’rd was spreading the gravel and setting the fire pit and staining the pressure treated. I bought the swings offline from Louisana Cypress Swings and Things and had to wait a week or more for them to be shipped.

I din’t have any building instructions to go by, pretty much just winged it. I layed out the hexagon in the yard so that center for the uprights for each bay was 7′ apart because I knew I wanted to get 5′ swings. I had 14′ from each upright to the upright opposite of it. I’m not sure what the angles were, I just took two pieces of scrap and layed them up there and messed around cutting a few until I got the angle right. We got all the top pieces set up there before lagging them all in. Left one bay swingless so that I could carry firewood in.

I got 6x6x10’s for the uprights and they are sacreeted almost 3 feet in the ground. I guess its a little over 7 feet to the bottom of the 6x6x8’s on top. Materials I used were 6- Bags of Sacreete (or Quickcreete – whatever you call it) one for each upright. 6- 6x6x10’s (for the uprights) 6- 6x6x8’s for the top sections 6- 2x6x8’s for the stabilizers that go kitty corner on top of 6×6’s (for strength) 24- 3/8’s x 8″ lags for laggin the top horizontal pieces to the uprights (countersunk) 24- 4″ Deck screws for screwing the top pieces together horizontally before lagging them. 24 – 3″ Deck screws for screwing the top 2×6 stabilizers to the 6×6’s 10- 3/8×8″ eyebolts with nuts and washers for hanging the swings

Hope this helps with anyone that’s looking to give it a shot. Thanks for all the compliments. Be sure to share this post of you like the idea and want to try it

5 Ways to Start a Fire with Water

Fire

Diesel

-

March 5, 2014

0

Did you know that water not only puts out fires but can also start them? Water can magnify sunlight rays through a process called refraction. When used and focused properly it can create an extremely hot focused beam capable of starting fire! A great outside the box method for starting fire in a SHTF situation when you have no other means. You could be stranded come across a garbage water bottle or even a clear plastic bag, and not realize you now may be able to start a fire with it. Check out this video we found with 5 interesting ways to start a fire using water

Mark trails to avoid getting lost

Land Navigation

SurvivalMagazine

-

March 4, 2014

0

Even the most experienced woodsmen can lose their way. Often times everything looks the same and it’s easy to go in circles. The old method was to use stones, or to break twigs as indicators of where you have been.

Now they offer Biodegradable Trail Marking Tape, and we think it’s a neat idea for those less experienced at marking their way

Available from several manufacturers like HME, Primos, and even Coghlans

Pallet Homes & Shelters

Homesteading

SurvivalMagazine

-

February 12, 2014

0

When SHTF, money is low, or you’re just looking to be really frugal and repurpose materials Pallets are a pretty cool solution for building things. We thought this collection of shelters and homes that used pallets or pallet wood might be good inspiration for your own project. Always make sure your pallets are bug and debris free, and it’s a good idea to hose them down to remove an pesticides or chemicals on them as well. We’d also spray coat or seal them with either primer or a sealent.