Monday, September 29, 2014

Red Rock Outdoor Gear U.45 Mavrik Backpack - Preview





Today we continue with our look at the Red Rock Outdoor Gear Mavrik system.  This is the U.45 Mavrik Backpack.


LINKS :

http://www.amazon.com/Red-Rock-Outdoor-Gear-Backpack/dp/B00J696GEA/ref=sr_1_1?s=sporting-goods&ie=UTF8&qid=1407354344

$149.00

http://redrockoutdoorgear.com/mavrik-u-45#

There are four packs in the Mavrik line at the time of this video being made.

The B.35, the U.45, U.35 and the S.08

We will have a video on the B.45 pack and the S.08 pack.
Also there will be a separate video that discusses there different pouches and accessories.

these do come in multiple colors;  Solid Coyote, Solid Back, Black and Gray which they call black Tornado, and Coyote and Dark Earth

Maverick System compatible
Nylon molle webbing platform on front
Dense padded straps and back panel
Compression strap on each side

- Mavrik System compatible
- Foam padded walls
- Padded carry handle on top and front
- Nylon molle webbing platform on front
- Zippered slip pocket on front
- Zippered utility pockets on each side
- Compression straps on each side
- Comfort padded straps, back panel, and waist strap
- Removable waist strap zippered hip pockets
- Soft-lined waist strap zippered hip pockets
- Measures: 11"W x 8"D x 23"H
- Weight: 3.0 lbs.


Friday, September 26, 2014

Red Rock Outdoor MAVRIK S.08 Sling Pack - Preview



Today we are looking at the Red Rock Outdoor MAVRIK S.08 Sling Pack.

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$79.00

Links :

http://www.amazon.com/Red-Rock-Outdoor-Gear-Backpack/dp/B00J696AQE/ref=sr_1_fkmr1_1?s=sporting-goods&ie=UTF8&qid=1407354555

http://redrockoutdoorgear.com/mavrik-s-08

these do come in multiple colors;  Solid Coyote, Solid Back, Black and Gray which they call black Tornado, and Coyote and Dark Earth

There are four packs in the Mavrik line at the time of this video being made.
The B.35, the U.45, U.35 and the S.08

The S.08 is an ambidextrous sling pack featuring the Mavrik System. A concealed carry compartment is built into the back panel with zippers on both sides allowing the bag to be drawn from across the chest. The main compartment has a tablet sleeve sewn in the backside with the Mavrik System lining the front. Adding our Mavrik pouches to the main compartment makes it ideal for a camera kit, first aid kit, range bag, or grab-and-go bag. The secondary compartment has an organizer pocket for pens, cards, keys, and more. Elastic loops for gear and additional magazines are also easily accessed in the front organizer pocket. We've used 420 Denier Dynatec nylon, 840 Denier Ballistic nylon, YKK zippers, and Duraflex buckles to create an extremely light and durable sling pack. The walls of all Mavrik packs have padding between nylon and lining to protect contents. The S.08 is ideal for a discreet sling pack.
DESCRIPTION

- Mavrik System compatible
- Foam padded walls
- Adjustable ambidextrous strap
- Nylon molle webbing platform on front
- Zippered utility pockets on each side
- Zippered organizer pocket on front
- Dense padded strap and back panel
- Measures: 10"W x 6.5"D x 13"H
- Weight: 1.6 lbs.

Wednesday, September 24, 2014

Quick Response : Getting into Hiking and Backpacking




Today we are discussing the first step required to get into backpacking and hiking.  This is part one of many parts.  Sit back and relax, this won't take long.
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Monday, September 22, 2014

VANQUEST HUSKY EDC Maximizer Organizer - Preview




Today we are taking a look at the VANQUEST HUSKY EDC Maximizer Organizer.
Thank you for watching.

….

http://www.vanquest.com/products/edcm-husky-edc-maximizer-organizer.html

$26.00

Offered in three colors : Black, Coyote, and Gray.

Weight : We will throw this on the scale once we unload the pack to make sure.

I have been using this Organizer for a while now for many different purposes including ddc and backpacking and I have some footage of both.  The first is with a backpacking trip that I did recently.

The next is with a family vacation that I recently took and used this as an EDC pouch.

In the future I would like to see a backpacker version of this pouch.  For Vanquest this could be a big seller.  A similar pouch but one that is light weight.  Backpackers are always looking to save weight and to find ways to organize their gear.

I really like this for these reasons;

Reversed zipper
Use with MOHL Adapters/MOLLE Sticks for PALS/MOLLE Webbing

VANQUEST offers a number of different variations of the Organizer so if you are interested in this one, there is a link in the description box below for you.

You may be thinking that this looks similar to a product turned out by
Maxpedition and you would be right and there is a reason for this.  Two of the the fine folks at VANQUEST were part of the original founding team of Maxpedition since 2003.

While the organizers look similar there are some real world difference between the two and it boils down to strength.  The Husky Organizer uses 1000d Cordura where the Maxpedition uses a much weaker nylon fabric.

Cordua is also made in the USA and the nylon from Maxpditions is not.

Ultimately there are a lot of differences between the two that I encourage you to take a look at.  We could go on for ours about this but in the end it boils down to this;

A strong, more durable and reliable product.

It’s not to say that Maxpedition is bad, that’s not the case at all but there are differences between quality levels.

#8 YKK zippers (non-lockale) with circular paracord pulls for security and easy opening. 1,000-D CORDURA® with TEFLON

8" (H) x 6" (W) x 2" (D)


Sunday, September 21, 2014

NanoTips - Preview and Testing



Today we are previewing and testing out NanoTips.
Will it be a hit or will it be a miss?
Watch and See....
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http://www.nanotips.com

Directions

Shake, Apply, and Dry.
MUST soak through the fabric of the gloves.

BLUE
- Up to 15 treatments per bottle
- Waterproof
- Reapplication - 2-4 weeks
BLUE for fabric and fleece: 90% transparency, 10% bluish tint


BLACK
- Up to 30 treatments per bottle
- Waterproof
- Reapplication - 2-4 weeks
BLACK for leather, rubber, gore-tex, etc

In this video I use two paris of gloves.  Thick wool gloves from Mammut and faux leather gloves ...very used... from Marmot. These are my favorite gloves and I continue to use them to this day.

The product claims to work with any gloves...

The solution uses conductive nanoparticles to mimic the electrical conductivity of human skin, just like a normal touchscreen glove. The creator claims the solution will work on any material, from pricey leather to canvas gloves, for construction, golfing, cycling, skiing and snowboarding.

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Saturday, September 20, 2014

Part 5 - T.O.G.R. - Question Submission




This is Part 5 of the Question and Answer Series.
Drop your questions and comments down below and they will be addressed in a future episode.

Friday, September 19, 2014

CamelBak TriZip - Preview





Today we are taking a closer look at the CamelBak TriZip Backpack.
Enjoy the Dance Moves!

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Price : On amazon they run around $234.  On the camel bak Web site they retail for $312!

Look around folks and find the best price possible.
An adjustable Futura™ Harness and triple zip design makes this pack ideal for carrying heavy loads with immediate access to gear.

This is essentially Camelbaks version of the Mystery Ranch pack, the Dragonslayer.  While they are very similar, they are also very different.  The Dragonslayer is a bigger overall pack.  $300 - $350.

Colors: Black, Coyote Brown, AUC, and Multicam

Includes the 100 oz 3 L Mil Spec Antidote® Long Reservoir with Quick Link Exit Port

Hydration Capacity: 100 oz 3 L

Cargo Volume: 1891 cu in 31 L

Total Volume: 2075 cu in 34 L

Pack Weight: 4.5 lbs 2 kg

Materials: 500D Cordura Fabric front panel, gusset, and shoulder harness top side

Air mesh on back panel and underside of shoulder harness
 210D Nylon lining
 7 series Aluminum
 5 mm Closed-Cell foam for insulated reservoir compartment

RESERVOIR FEATURES:
More than just a reservoir, the Mil Spec Antidote Reservoir redefines the ultimate delivery system for an operator’s water supply and provides maximum adaptability for changing missions or combat environments. Includes our Quick Link Exit Port and QL HydroLock Bite Valve Adapter: tube clicks off for faster refilling with auto shut-off; new Fillport: industry’s largest opening with air-light ¼ turn open/close for quick, secure seal that can’t be over-tightened; lighter-weight, lower-profile design.

KEY PACK FEATURES:
Fully adjustable patented Futura Harness by Mystery Ranch, 500D Cordura, Printed MOLLE webbing, External access side pockets, Multiple drink tube exit ports for routing tube over the shoulder or under an arm, Separate insulated reservoir compartment, Removable load-bearing waist belt for load distribution


Wednesday, September 17, 2014

Czech Army Watch Cap - Preview



It's Military Surplus Wednesday and we are taking a look at the Czech Army Watch Cap.
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$3.95

http://www.keepshooting.com/review/product/list/id/2926/category/18/

The Czech Army Watch Cap is a knit cap that was issued to soldiers in the Czech army.

Sometimes referred to as a stocking cap.

Features:

Authentic Czech Army Surplus
Cotton Blend Material - Super Warm and Comfy
One Size Fits All
Olive Drab Green Color
Military Origin Czech
Construction Cotton Blend
Condition Surplus Used
Weight 3.6oz

It's heavy weight and thick.

Big enough to fit any head, as well as cover your ears.

Grab a couple and throw them in your vehicle emergency bag.

Monday, September 15, 2014

Tmart.com 3P Outdoor Tactical Backpack - Preview




Today we are taking a look at the Tmart.com 3P Tactical Backpack.
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http://www.tmart.com/3P-The-Rucksack-March-Outdoor-Tactical-Backpack-Shoulders-Bag-Mud-Color_p183225.html

$23.97

Three colors Coyote Brown
Black
Green
Specifications

Material Oxford Cloth
Capacity 20L
Weight 33.16 oz / 940 g
Dimensions (9.45 x 8.66 x 16.53)" / (24 x 22 x 42)cm (L X W X H)
Waterproof: Unlikely

As many of you know, I like gear, there is no doubt about that and I especially like getting a good deal.

In the past I have had very good luck with getting what I would call ‘Similar Style’ tactical packs at a very inexpensive price.  So when Tmart asked if I would like to take a look at one of the packs that they offer, I agreed.

My impressions:

Sadly they are not very good especially when you consider that it has a lot going for it feature wise.

My first impressions when pulling the pack out of the box was, "hey this looks nice” but my opinion quickly changed.

I filled the pack with gear as I was going out to test some products and that is when the problems presented themselves.

Waist belts aren’t sewn so they will release and will not hold tension.
Not very long for bigger individuals.
Sternum strap is way to small, even for me and it will not expand.

zipper doesn’t inspire confidence.
The listing claims that the pack is waterproof and there is no way that it is especially with the zippers that were used.  Water resistant possibly but not waterproof.

harness also isn’t sewn on and with a heavy load, will release from the pack.

….

In my opinion you would be better off spending some extra money to go with the
Condor Compact Assault Pack for $40.

the red Rock Rebal ASSAULT PACK for $40


Or even with the Maxpedition Falcon-II for $130.


The quality just isn’t here for the price and I would trust this pack to carry my gear.

Now I should say this, this product in my book is a complete failure but not all hope is lost with Tmart products.  I am currently test out a CREE/XM-T6950 Lumen flashlight that has really blown me away.
A preview of that flash light will be coming up soon.

YAKEDA 35L Preview :  http://www.jollyoutdoor.com/yakedar-35l-stylish-high-quality-waterproof-day-pack.html

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Friday, September 12, 2014

Viewer's Choice : August Overnight Adventure - VOTE NOW




It's time to vote on the gear that we will use on our next Overnight Adventure!
 - VOTE NOW (on the right side of the page)!

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Packs :
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Mammut Creon Light 32 liter

Black Diamond Axis 33 Backpack

Black Diamond  Speed 55 Pack

Zpacks Arc Blast 50L

Arc'teryx Alpha FL 45

Tents :
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Hyperlite Mountain Cuben Fiber Flat Tarp with Bug Mesh


Nemo Switchblade

Nemo Obi Elite


Sleeping Pads:
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Nemo Zor

Thermarest Xtherm

Pacific Outdoor Equipment Peak Elite AC

Big Agnes Double Z

Sleeping Bags :
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Marmot Minimalist Aspen 40 degree

Thermarest Tech Blanket

Katabatic Gear Alsek 22°F



After The Camp - The Wilderness : Overnight Adventure






This is After The Camp and we are discussing our latest Overnight Adventure, The Wilderness.  Thank you for watching.

Wednesday, September 10, 2014

Austrian Combat Pack - Giveaway





Enter to Win an Austrian Combat Pack with Shoulder Strap from The Outdoor Gear Review and KeepShooting.com.



Preview : https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DR1HdcnC6S8

To Purchase: http://www.keepshooting.com/austrian-combat-pack-with-shoulder-strap.html

$10.95

The Austrian Army issued this combat pack to soldiers in the 1980s. What makes this combat pack very unique is it can be either worn on a belt, or it can be carried using the included shoulder strap. Each combat pack is in very good condition and is capable of serving as an every day carry bag.

Medium sized combat packs like this Austrian Combat Pack are very popular. The size of this combat pack makes it ideal for an every day carry bag, range bag, or a bug out bag for the trunk of your car. The Austrian army is well known for issuing quality gear to their troops and this combat pack is no different.

Features:

Shoulder Strap or Belt Carry - Both are possible with this combat pack and it can be connected to the 4pc Austrian Backpack system which it would ride in the front, over the chest.
Drawstring Closure with Water Resistant Flap
Reenforced Bottom - Carry a heavier load
Interior has three separate pockets
Height 35 cm (Approximately 13.75 inches)
Width 35 cm (Approximately 13.75 inches)
Depth 13 cm (Approximately 5 inches)
2 Belt Clips
100% Nylon which is water resistant
Thick Canvas straps
All of the hardware is brass.

The inside has a divider, and the outside has attachment points for more equipment.
It would be the perfect size for a small "messenger" type bag.
Great for your fishing kit, survival pack for your vehicle or for day hikes

Military Origin Austrian
Construction Aramid
Condition Surplus Used
Weight 1.2lbs

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Monday, September 8, 2014

eBoot 5000mAh Battery Bank and Solar Charger - Preview




Today we are taking a look at the eBoot 5000mAh Battery Bank and Solar Panel Charger.



http://www.amazon.com/eBoot-Rain-resistant-Shockproof-Portable-External/dp/B00KMRYSRM

$28 on Amazon

Three colors;
Black
 Green
Blue

Waterproof / rainproof /dustproof function, suitable for outdoor activities

Compact, portable & stylish design; Rubberized finish that feels great.

Only weighs 5.oz

Size (LWH): 5.59 inches, 2.95 inches, 0.59 inches

2 USB charging ports

micro-usb connection for charging from a computer or other source.

Grade A cell, Build-in 5000mAh Lithium Polymer battery which charges via a powerful 1.2W monocrystalline solar panel ; 2.1A output allows for simultaneous charging of your devices at high speed ;Anti-explosion, lightweight, compact and reliable.

The LED flashlight Just press the button twice,

The LED will light up; 4 LED status of charge indicators indicate the charging and discharging process.

Package includes: eBoot charger, micro USB cable; Carabiner
Color: black/blue/green
Portable design
Compact size design for portability, with the free hook, you may just hang it on your bag pack when outdoors, easy to carry and charge, Rain/Dirt/Shockproof feature protects the device from damaging.
Specifications:
Battery Capacity : 5000mAh Li-Polymer Battery
Input: 5V/1A
Output: 5V/2X1A
Product Dimension: 142*75*13.6mm
Product Weight:143g
Color: Black, Green, Blue.
Solar Panel: 5.5V,200mA
AC charging time: about 6 hours

Notes:
When charging the solar charger via the solar panel, please avoid prolonged exposure under the burning Sun.

The solar charger is waterproof but should never be immersed in water or any other liquid.

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Friday, September 5, 2014

Wednesday, September 3, 2014

Austrian Combat Pack - Preview





It's military surplus Wednesday and we are looking at the Austrian Combat Pack.

...

http://www.keepshooting.com/austrian-combat-pack-with-shoulder-strap.html

$10.95

The Austrian Army issued this combat pack to soldiers in the 1980s. What makes this combat pack very unique is it can be either worn on a belt, or it can be carried using the included shoulder strap. Each combat pack is in very good condition and is capable of serving as an every day carry bag.

Medium sized combat packs like this Austrian Combat Pack are very popular. The size of this combat pack makes it ideal for an every day carry bag, range bag, or a bug out bag for the trunk of your car. The Austrian army is well known for issuing quality gear to their troops and this combat pack is no different.

Features:

Shoulder Strap or Belt Carry - Both are possible with this combat pack and it can be connected to the 4pc Austrian Backpack system which it would ride in the front, over the chest.
Drawstring Closure with Water Resistant Flap
Reenforced Bottom - Carry a heavier load
Interior has three separate pockets
Height 35 cm (Approximately 13.75 inches)
Width 35 cm (Approximately 13.75 inches)
Depth 13 cm (Approximately 5 inches)
2 Belt Clips
100% Nylon which is water resistant
Thick Canvas straps
All of the hardware is brass.

The inside has a divider, and the outside has attachment points for more equipment.
It would be the perfect size for a small "messenger" type bag.
Great for your fishing kit, survival pack for your vehicle or for day hikes

Military Origin Austrian
Construction Aramid
Condition Surplus Used
Weight 1.2lbs

...

Monday, September 1, 2014

The Wilderness : Overnight Adventure






Thank you for joining me on my latest Overnight Adventure, The Wilderness. This is the ACTUAL trip.

Woolx Lightweight Merino Wool X-Lite Shirt - Review






Today TOGR is reviewing the Woolx Lightweight Merino Wool Short Sleeve X-Lite Shirt.



http://www.woolx.com/woolx-lightweight-merino-wool-tshirt-for-men.html

$60.00

Come in 5 sizes;
Small, medium, Large, Xlarge and XXL

Two colors; Black and Blue



As many of you know, I am a fan of very cheap shirts and like I have said many times before, I can wear them and when they get nasty I throw them away.

These shirts are very inexpensive, $10 or less usually and they perform well enough.  Not great but adequately.

With this shirt from Woolx, I have to say that it’s a great shirt and for $60 it should be.

Yes that is a big difference from my typical $10 Old Navy Active shirts but what we have here is a shirt that certainly performs better and will likely last longer than the shirts that I normally wear.

Merino wool is considered amongst the best of wool blends and it’s a top choice in athletic wear over synthetic materials;

because the wool helps regulate body heat while wicking away moisture and it can retain heat when wet.

Antibacterial properties that repel odor.

Wore it for a week straight and no stick!  Washed over 6 times, no pilling and it looks brand new.

No itching, whatsoever
Moisture wicking
Warm when wet
Quickly Drying
 Elastic

 5. ounces for the small size.  My typical shirts run about the same weight; 4.7oz

No tag on the tee
100% 17.5 Micron Australian Merino Wool
170 g/m2 jersey construction

Flatlock - non chaffe seams



Now going back to price only you can decide what type of person you are.  Do you buy something and spend more but have it last longer or do you spend less and replace more often?

I did not think Icebreaker quality could be beat but Woolx did it.

It Has Earned Some Respect after many miles and many days worth of use.

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