To ME.

Alright. 1st post, a quick one. Started this blog thing today, this is my 2nd attempt at this thing. The first one failed last year. Really, this is all just writing to myself, don't foresee others reading it, maybe one day. Who knows?.

Anywho. The first one failed cause I had this narrow topic/idea focus thing going on. This will just be random material, thoughts, pictures. Probably trip reports, friend stuff, and definitely my wife and Lola in there for sure.

So I start the first day with this nonsense post and some gear reviews of mine from REI, and a kick-ass pic.

My Review of Marmot Never Summer 0 Sleeping Bag - Regular

Originally submitted at REI

The '06 Backpacker® Magazine Gear Guide says this bag ''...won't commit the cardinal sin of leaving you colder than its 0° F temp rating.''

Marmot Never Summer 0 Sleeping Bag - Regular

Great cold weather bag.

By Dirt Empire from SoCal. on 10/27/2009

 

4out of 5

Pros: Comfortable, Warm, Adjustable Hood, Stows Easily

Best Uses: Cold Conditions, Backpacking, Base Camp

Really, I'd give it 4.5 stars if I were able to select it. All around a great 3 season bag (winter, fall, spring). It's decently compact and not too heavy. I've felt lighter, but this one is fine especially for the warmth you get.
On that note, this bag is very warm, as it is supposed to be. For me (warm sleeper), any night above the freezing mark and this bag is just too warm. Even when unzipped, it does its job. So for those good, cold winter trips .. this bag is the one.
I agree with some reviews, this bag does tend to get damp easy, however, if you've got a little time in camp each morning you can hang this bag and it'll dry nice and quick.
I have the Never Summer - Long, at 6'2" 190, it's the right size.

(legalese)

My Review of BearVault BV500 Food Container

Originally submitted at REI

Keep bears from inviting themselves to your feast! The BearVault BV500 container features simple access, light weight and large volume.

BearVault BV500 Food Container

The obvious choice.

By Dirt Empire from SoCal. on 10/27/2009

 

5out of 5

Pros: Good Capacity, Durable, Multi-use

Best Uses: Campgrounds, Backcountry Camping

This canister does exactly what you want it to do! It keeps the animals out, and helps keep you fed.

The BV is the best choice on the market. 1) It's size is sufficient for 1-2 people over several days of strong backpacking. 2) Having a container that you can see into from all angles really is an important feature. 3) If fits snug into many med to large packs, or you can safely strap it to the outside. 4) Doubles as a seat, and gear storage at home. 5) Is really not that hard to open. Now if it is so cold out that your hands just aren't warm, it can take a couple tries to get the pressure/spin technique working. However, in regular-old conditions all it takes is a good push of the finger tips to get the BV open. My advice to those who've struggled with opening the BV .. do a few push-ups every once in a while.

(legalese)