Thursday, March 31, 2022

This Japanese Stove is REALLY Different! - The Unique SOTO ST-310 Stove


If you have been with the channel for a while now, then you know that I am a big fan of the Japanese company SOTO; they have a presence in the USA but where they are very popular is in Japan. While they do offer some products in the US, they don’t offer all that they make.

Over the years I have been importing the products that aren’t readily available here in the States and i have to say; they have been incredible so far!

The Cassette stove ST-320 that I reviewed some time back continues to be one of the most unique and fun to use stoves that I have ever tested and in fact, it is one my favorite products I have ever tested.

Make sure to check out my review of that highly unique stove.

This is the Soto ST-310 stove, it runs off of Butane and it too is a unique stove system that I figured you all would be interested in just as much as I am.

...
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...
SOTO Regulator Stove ST-310MT

What it is : If you have been with the channel for a while now, then you know that I am a big fan of the Japanese company SOTO; they have a presence in the USA but where they are very popular is in Japan. While they do offer some products in the US, they don’t offer all that they make.

Over the years I have been importing the products that aren’t readily available here in the States and i have to say; they have been incredible so far!

The Cassette stove ST-320 that I reviewed some time back continues to be one of the most unique and fun to use stoves that I have ever tested and in fact, it is one my favorite products I have ever tested.

Make sure to check out my review of that highly unique stove.

This is the Soto ST-310 stove, it runs off of Butane and it too is a unique stove system that I figured you all would be interested in….just as much as I am.

Agenda Free Link : ebay.com

Versions : There is a silver and a black version of this stove - the black version tends to be more expensive


Price : The Silver Version can be imported for around $85. Here is some good news; this can be purchased on Amazon - there is a seller who has imported it!

The black version runs around $115 - $130 to import and I was only able to find it on eBay.

Dimensions setup :
Stands 4.5” tall
5.5 x 5.5 at the base

Each leg is only 2” apart so any size pot/pan/cup can be used.

Dimensions folded :
4.5” tall
5.5” long
2.5” thick

Materials : Stainless steel

BTU’s : If I did the conversion correctly, this stove is right at 10,000BUT’s

According to Soto, this stove is best used in temps down to 40f.

Weight :
Stove : 11.6oz
Stove plus Storage Bag : 12oz
Stove plus full can of Butane : 1lb 7.4oz

Features :
Legs that unfold and lock into place.
Built in Piezo Ignitor
Heat shield over gas canister
Micro regulator assists with keeping a constant pressure even as the fuel in the canister is being depleted.

Accessories : SOTO makes a number of products that one can get to customize their ST-310 stoves. One such accessory are silicone non-slip tube covers.

The company also makes an ignition assist lever which makes it easier to get to the Ignitor.

A burner pad can also be purchased for this stove that includes a windscreen.

There are at least 2 carry cases available as well.

It doesn’t stop there; there are tables which integrate with the stove that are pretty cool as well. I ordered one of these and it should be here soon.

….
Observations So Far :
Impressive build quality
Unique design -
Large burner head
While not the lightest stove, it’s lighter than what you would expect.
Ignitor has always worked, hasn’t let me down so far.
Good adjuster - right amount of tension.
Exceptionally stable cooking platform
Can easily be used with smaller pots, pans and cups or larger ones.

As-is, no wind protection
...

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Monday, March 28, 2022

I'm Absolutely Blown Away! Teton Sports Mountain Ultra 1 - First Look an...


I have to be honest here, the quality of this tent is AMAZING especially when you consider the price!

I simply don't believe it!

Years have passed since I have reviewed anything from this company and that changes today; in this episode I am taking a fresh look at the Teton Sports Mountain Ultra tent and I'm blown away!
....
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TETON SPORTS MOUNTAIN ULTRA 1 PERSON TENT

What it is : This is a 3 season 1 person tent from the company known as Teton Sports. This is a budget friendly shelter that I have high hopes that I can ultimately recommend.

Before I can, I need to take a close look at the shelter and then test it out. Coming soon!

Back in 2017 I reviewed this tent and ultimately recommended and with it being 2022, this tent has changed some and it is time to reevaluate this product.

Agenda Free Link : https://tetonsports.com/product/mountain-ultra-1-tent/

Weight : 4.4lbs

Materials :
RAINFLY MATERIAL : 66D 3MM Ripstop Polyester
INNER TENT WALL MATERIAL : 150D Polyester Oxford
INNER TENT WALL MESH : B3 FR Micro Mesh
FLOOR MATERIAL : 150D Polyester Oxford
Pole : T6 Aluminum
Storage Bag : 66D 3mm Ripstop Polyester

Dimensions Stored : 21 x 5

Dimensions Setup Interior : 80 x 30 x 41

Price : $110 retail (purchased during a sale on the Teton website for $83

Colors : Gray and Silver, Red and Yellow

Versions : 1, 2, 3, 4 person variants

Initial Thoughts :
See Video
…….
How the 2022 version is different than the 2017 version.

Luckily I still have my notes to compare important details

The new 2022 version is smaller by 2” in all dimensions when setup.

Dimensions : 82" x 32" x 39.5"
Packed Dimensions are virtually the same.
The newest version is slightly less heavy - 4.4lbs compared to 4.7 of the older version.

Teton sports used to state the hydrostatic rating but no longer does so. The fly was rated at 3000mm but this is no longer stated.

The materials are different; the older version featured a high denier rain fly

The older version included a groundsheet whereas the new one does not.

The price of the old version was $130 retail, I paid $118 for it back then.
…..

With these changes the only big con that I see is the change in size; cutting 2” from each dimension could translate to a tent that simply will not work for all individuals instead they will have to get either a 2 person tent or go with a different product entirely.

The change in materials isn’t that big of a deal as long as the overall performance is similar.

Coming up I will begin with my testing of this product and we will see how well it performs in the rain. That is a big question for me.

It is my hope that this tent performs well as I would love to be able to recommend this tent and even the larger sizes for those who are looking for budget options.
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Saturday, March 26, 2022

It Got Dangerous and I Had to Bail - Testing the Bothy Bag Emergency She...


In this episode of TOGR's Lone Survivor Series, Luke is going to put the infamous Bothy Bag to the test in some truly nasty conditions; some love them, some absolutely hate them; let's find out why that is.

Testing begins in a heavy rain but ends in an Ice Storm along with very strong winds and things go from Bad to Disaster in minutes.

Gear List for this Adventure :
After receiving countless messages from viewers about supporting the channel through Amazon, I have begun using Amazon Affiliate links in the Adventure Videos and if you choose to purchase one of these products via these links I will receive a small commission which will help fund future honest reviews and adventures.

The channel remains as it always was, 100% Agenda Free with no sponsored videos, no paid reviews, and I don't care if you purchase these products or not; you won't find affiliate links in review videos only in adventures.

I'm going to do my best to put gear lists into all of my videos since everyone is asking for them all the time.

For this trip, here are the big items that I used.

Survival Gear List :

Camera Equipment :
- GoPro 10 : https://amzn.to/3BSAJhZ
- GoPro Batteries : https://amzn.to/3jPJba9
- GoPro Wind Cover : https://amzn.to/3AtoN58
- SIRUI Carbon Fiber Travel 5C Tripod : https://amzn.to/3BEahZX
- POVGear GoPro Stick : https://amzn.to/2VKFeLk

Clothing :
- Outdoor Research Interstellar Rain Jacket : https://amzn.to/3ubSTsw
- Outdoor Research Helium II Rain Pants : https://amzn.to/3bKRiS9
- SCARPA Men's Kailash Trek GTX Hiking Boot : https://amzn.to/342zFcd
- Arcteryx Conveyor Belt : https://amzn.to/3i3CRfb
- Fjallraven Zip-Off Pants : https://amzn.to/3leUdXb
- Woolly Merino Wool V Neck Long Sleeve : https://amzn.to/3olwBmn
- USMC Fleece Sweater : eBay.com for green https://amzn.to/3xVNWph for brown
- Minus33 Merino Wool 723 Kobuk Baselayer Sweater : https://amzn.to/3DmJWPx
- Outdoor Research SuperStrand LT Hoodie : https://www.outdoorresearch.com/us/mens-superstrand-lt-hoodie-289620
- Smartwool Merino Wool Hat : https://amzn.to/3feJv0Y
- IO Merino Wool Mask : No Longer Available
- Knit Gloves :
- Outdoor Research PS150 Gloves : https://amzn.to/32AxVd5
- Outdoor Research MGS Shell Gloves Waterproof Gloves : ebay.com

- Gear :
- Terra Nova Bothy Bag : https://amzn.to/3uadtJH
- Mountain Hardware JMT 35 Backpack : https://www.mountainhardwear.com/p/jmt-35l-backpack-1938331.html
- Komperdell Trekking Poles : https://amzn.to/3uadBc9
- NiteCore NU32 Headlamp : https://amzn.to/3fxqLbU
- Nite Ize Lantern : https://amzn.to/3fCFbHN
- Garmin Instinct Solar GPS Watch : https://amzn.to/3GvkPMC
- Osprey Kit Bags : https://amzn.to/3oPWsBx
- Kershaw Cryo II Folding Knife : https://amzn.to/2Sej6aD
....
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Thursday, March 24, 2022

The Value of this Stove is Excellent - Esbit Medium Solid Fuel Stove Review


The value and functionality of this stove is off of the the charts!

In this Agenda Free Review, Luke is reviewing the Medium Size Esbit stove and while doing so will go over the Pros, the Cons and why this may be the right stove for you.
....
100% Agenda Free
This channel is Agenda Free and is fully supported by the viewers. 

Support TOGR through Patreon : https://www.patreon.com/TOGR

or

...
Medium Size Esbit Pocket Stove Review 

What it is : This is a lightweight, small form factor solid fuel stove - I love stoves like this and while this isn’t overly unique it is highly versatile and for the money, they are hard to beat.

Thank you to Theo who sent this in for me to review, thank you brother! 

Esbit is a German company who has been making stoves for over 75 years for both civilian and military applications. The original stove was developed in the 1930’s and since then has been used by outdoorsmens/women, military forces, rescue organizations and even humanitarian groups. 


Price : $15

Weight : 6.1oz - stove and two 27g fuel cubes 

Materials
Stove is made from Galvanized steel
Fuel Tablets are Hexamine which is toxic to breathe in.

Size : 4.5” x 3.25” roughly an 1” deep

Review Pros :

- Plain and simple, this is an awesome stove!
- Easy to setup, easy to break down.
- The fuel is easy to ignite; not the easiest but with a steady flame it will be burning.

Also, Hexamine works great at high elevations and in sub-zero conditions. 

Good quality stove

Very lightweight

Inexpensive

Can be used with other fuels not just those from Esbit - also multiple sizes.  

Offers good wind resistance. 

Can hold multiple fuel tablets 

Because the walls are retractable, you can use this with many sizes of pots, pans and cups. 

Review Cons

Fuel - it’s toxic to breathe in when it is burning and it absolutely stinks.  Smells like shrimp even though the package. When I’m out with this type of stove and fuel, I will double bag it….for my protection! Lol 

Talking about the fuel, it can be hard to ignite in windy conditions 

Summary :

These little stoves are great for those who want to go out on adventures with a lightweight, small form factor stove and fuel solution. Inexpensive, simple to use, compact and fuel is easily available.

Note : Esbit has multiple Pocket Stoves; a small, medium and large. In my opinion, the medium is the sweet spot but in truth, you’re not going to see a massive difference in any of them.  There is only an inch difference between the smallest and the largest. 

There are other companies who make similar stoves such as BCB; there are very few differences between them all.
...

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Monday, March 21, 2022

I'm Flat Out Worried - OneTigris Scaena Backpacking Tent - First Look at...


OneTigris has been working hard on a new version of the Cosmitto Tent and this is what they have come up with.

To be honest, I am EXCEPTIONALLY WORRIED....


This might have been a huge mistake.....
...
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...
OneTigris Scaena Backpacking Tent - First Look at the Cosmitto Replacement - Preview

What it is :
My friends, what i have here is the Scaena (sky-n-ah) tent from OneTigris; remember the Cosmitto tent that I reviewed previously? If not you should check out my videos on that tent as it was a very interesting product; it had a lot going for it but unfortunately the design of the tent meant that it wasn’t waterproof.

After the testing done on my channel, the company recommended that the Cosmitto be only used in light rain.

How useful is a tent that can’t weather any sort of weather? Not useful at all.

Anyways, after my testing videos and review went up for the Cosmitto tent, OneTigris told me that they were working on a new version of this tent, one that addressed all of the issues that I had and to make a long story short, here we go!

This is the Scaena tent which is essentially the new and improved Cosmitto tent. While it hasn’t replaced the Cosmitto as it is still for sale for some reason, based on what OneTigris has told me, it is the new and improved Cosmitto tent.

Agenda Free Link : https://www.onetigris.com/scaena-backpacking-tent.html

Colors : Coyote Brown

Materials :
Fly : 20D silicone Ripstop nylon treated with 3000mm rating
Body: 40D silicone Ripstop nylon with 3000mm floor
Poles : 7001 Aluminum
Zippers : YKK

Weight : 5.3lbs

Dimensions :
Stored : 15.5” long x 8” wide
Setup : 6.8’ long x 4.1’ wide x 3.7” tall

Included :
Groundsheet
5 guy lines
10 tent stakes
Poles
Storage bag

Price : $250

Features :

This is a 3 season tent,
2 doors
2 vestibules

Angled poles - 120 degrees - this provides campers with a bigger, more open tent space. Also, it gives the users a better view from the inside of the tent as well as better ventilation.

Fly can be set up with the floor to make a sort of quick setup shelter when the inner tent isn’t required or needed.

Inside Flaps can be used to block wind - this can be incredibly handy in the summer months in certain situations. For an example, lets say that you are at the beach or maybe you are camping in the mountains and you have wind coming in one way, you can setup the tent with the flaps towards the wind so you can control the amount of air flow into the tent while having the benefits of mesh on the other side. It’s a really smart design

Impressions :
Covered in video

Setup :
Covered in video

Design :
Covered in video

Cosmitto Tent :
Going back to the Cosmitto tent for a moment, OneTigris really does deserve a round of applause for the way that they handled all of the issues concerning that tent. As a summary, they released the Cosmitto tent, through testing problems were revealed and the company owned up to the issues and made some changes on their web site and also issued a warning - the tent is designed only for good conditions with nothing more than light rain. While they didn’t pull the tent from the market they did make those changes which can be seen on their site to this day.

From Here :
This is a preview of the Scaena tent and from here it is going into testing - rain testing is coming up with a Test Night Video and in also, I will have a video dedicated to the setup process of this tent which will show you how to do both setups that this tent is capable of.

I will be filming adventures with this tent and ultimately my review will go up.
...
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Friday, March 18, 2022

⛈️ Thunder & Lightning - Strong Storms, Heavy Rain and Strong Winds Unde...


As a cold front pushes into the Mountains of NC, Luke is out for an adventure and this time, he's in a Tarp Shelter that he Built!

Heavy Rain and Strong Winds are battling against Luke as he questions whether or not this Tarp Shelter can handle the Severe Weather Assault in this Wild Camp Adventure.
....
Want to Send Us Something?

TOGR - PO Box 111
7378 Old US 421 S
Deep Gap, NC 28618

...
Gear List for this Adventure :
After receiving countless messages from viewers about supporting the channel through Amazon, I have begun using Amazon Affiliate links in the Adventure Videos and if you choose to purchase one of these products via these links I will receive a small commission which will help fund future honest reviews and adventures.

The channel remains as it always was, 100% Agenda Free with no sponsored videos, no paid reviews, and I don't care if you purchase these products or not; you won't find affiliate links in review videos only in adventures.

I'm going to do my best to put gear lists into all of my videos since everyone is asking for them all the time.

For this trip, here are the big items that I used.

Tarp Storm Camping Gear List :

- Camera Equipment Used in this Adventure -

- Canon R5 : https://amzn.to/2Vy42GO
- R5 Batteries : https://amzn.to/3ttqr4s
- Canon RF 24-70 2.8 Lens : https://amzn.to/2Vy49Ce
- Canon R5 Memory Card : https://amzn.to/2VsOsvV
- SIRUI Carbon Fiber Travel 5C Tripod : https://amzn.to/3BEahZX
- Rode VideoMic Pro Plus Mic : https://amzn.to/3iZMqMO

- Gear -

- Aqua Quest Safari 20x13 ft Olive Drab Tarp : https://amzn.to/3KTuUFk
- Warrior Assault Systems X300 Backpack : https://tacsale.eu/product/warrior-assault-systems-elite-ops-x300-pack-od-green
- Snugpak Ionosphere Tent : https://amzn.to/3w0mc3E
- UGQ Outlaw Hybrid Quilt : https://ugqoutdoor.com/top-quilts/outlaw-hybrid-quilt/

- Tent Stakes : https://amzn.to/3pK5Mb9

- Sea to Summit Ether Light XT Extreme Cold-Weather Insulated Air Mattress : https://amzn.to/3pcfmUE
- Sea to Summit Aeros Down Inflatable Pillow : https://amzn.to/3pdSBzE
- 550 Cord : https://amzn.to/3ujrtia

- Helinox Chair One : https://amzn.to/2XuYo8O

- Toaks 750ML Pot with Bail Handle : https://amzn.to/3ywOpOw
- TOAKS Titanium Long Handle Spoon with Polished Bowl : https://amzn.to/3vcItrL
- SOTO Stove ST-310M : https://amzn.to/3CMrO2M
- Butane Fuel : https://amzn.to/3oTpWyw

- Tasmanian Tiger Modular Pouch Kit : https://amzn.to/3grXq4m
- Tasmanian Tiger Mesh Pouch Kit : https://amzn.to/35qSqXc

- Real Turmat Meals : https://basecampfood.com/collections/real-turmat

- Clothing -

- Helikon-Tex Urban Tactical Pants : https://amzn.to/3MQGwut
- Helikon-Tex Alpha Tactical Jacket : https://amzn.to/3Ig2cwr
- Old Navy : Active T-Shirt
- 5.11 Rain Jacket : https://amzn.to/3di4ONi
- Outdoor Research Helium II Rain Pants : https://amzn.to/3bKRiS9
- Arcteryx Conveyor Belt : https://amzn.to/3i3CRfb
- Darn Tough Socks : https://amzn.to/3mx20A5
- North Face Ultra 109 GTX Shoes : https://amzn.to/3hSUEpK

- Outdoor Research SuperStrand LT Hoodie : https://www.outdoorresearch.com/us/mens-superstrand-lt-hoodie-289620

- Smartwool Merino Wool Hat : https://amzn.to/3feJv0Y
- IO Merino Wool Mask : No Longer Available
- Knit Gloves :

- Hand Warmers : https://amzn.to/3rGHj9f

- Kershaw Cryo II Folding Knife : https://amzn.to/2Sej6aD
- Oakley Men's Gradient Flak Jacket 03-881 Black Wrap Sunglasses : https://amzn.to/2WcOGYm
- Garmin Instinct Solar GPS Watch : https://amzn.to/3GvkPMC

- NiteCore NU32 Headlamp : https://amzn.to/3fxqLbU
- NiteCore Power Bank : https://amzn.to/3B4hiD0
- Fenix Lantern : https://amzn.to/3xVMlj9

...
100% Agenda Free :
This channel is Agenda Free and is fully supported by the viewers.

Support TOGR through Patreon : https://www.patreon.com/TOGR

or

Support TOGR through YouTube : https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCpmbA7yNOl7aTj_ffkaWWag/join

...

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Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Outdoor-Gear-Review/281509538652229

Twitter : https://twitter.com/OutdoorGearRev

Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/theoutdoorgearreview/

Wednesday, March 16, 2022

This is Pretty Funny! - KNOCKOFF Copycat US Military Zippered Poncho Lin...


Wait Until You See This....

Over the last couple of weeks I have been showing off many different versions of the US Military Poncho Liner which is also known as a Woobie Blanket; in this Episode of TOGR, Luke is showing you all an example of a Knockoff Military Poncho Liner...what a hunk of garbage!
....
Want to Send Us Something?

TOGR - PO Box 111
7378 Old US 421 S
Deep Gap, NC 28618


FYI; I don't live in the Deep Gap area, I only have a PO Box there for packages due to privacy; it may take me a few weeks to check the box due to distance.
...
100% Agenda Free :
This channel is Agenda Free and is fully supported by the viewers.

Support TOGR through Patreon : https://www.patreon.com/TOGR

or

Support TOGR through YouTube : https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCpmbA7yNOl7aTj_ffkaWWag/join
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Tuesday, March 15, 2022

NOT What I Expected To Happen - Snugpak Ionosphere Rain Test - Test Nigh...


In this Episode of TOGR, Luke is waterproof testing the Snugpak Ionosphere Tent; will the problems that are presented during this rain event be deal breakers?

Find out now!

...
100% Agenda Free : 
This channel is Agenda Free and is fully supported by the viewers. 

Support TOGR through Patreon : https://www.patreon.com/TOGR

or

...
Snugpak Quality Comparison - Ionosphere Tent

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Friday, March 11, 2022

Stealth Camping in a Campground - No One Will See Me! - Attacked in the ...


In this Stealth Camping Adventure, Luke has a mission to complete;
hike to and camp in a Campground while being unseen and unnoticed!

Can he pull it off without being caught?

Find out in this Overnight Adventure!
...
Gear List for this Adventure :
After receiving countless messages from viewers about supporting the channel through Amazon, I have begun using Amazon Affiliate links in the Adventure Videos and if you choose to purchase one of these products via these links I will receive a small commission which will help fund future honest reviews and adventures.

The channel remains as it always was, 100% Agenda Free with no sponsored videos, no paid reviews, and I don't care if you purchase these products or not; you won't find affiliate links in review videos only in adventures.

I'm going to do my best to put gear lists into all of my videos since everyone is asking for them all the time.

For this trip, here are the big items that I used.

Stealth CampGround Gear List
….
Camera Equipment :
Sony Alpha 7 IV : https://amzn.to/3vWgMa0
Sony 20mm 1.8 Lens : https://amzn.to/3Fi3XbK
SIRUI Carbon Fiber Travel 5C Tripod https://amzn.to/3BEahZX
Batteries : https://amzn.to/3geFtG5
Rode VideoMic Pro Plus Mic : https://amzn.to/3iZMqMO
Sony TOUGH-G SDXC UHS-II 128GB V90 Memory Card : https://amzn.to/3efDS16

Smartwool Merino Wool Hat https://amzn.to/3feJv0Y
IO Merino Wool Mask : No Longer Available
Knit Gloves :

Fjallraven Zip-Off Pants : https://amzn.to/3leUdXb
Old Navy Active T-Shirt :
Patagonia Men's Micro D Full Zip Sweater : https://www.patagonia.com/product/mens-micro-d-fleece-jacket/26171.html
Arcteryx Conveyor Belt : https://amzn.to/3i3CRfb
Darn Tough Socks https://amzn.to/3mx20A5
North Face Ultra 109 GTX Shoes : https://amzn.to/3hSUEpK
Outdoor Research SuperStrand LT Hoodie : https://www.outdoorresearch.com/us/mens-superstrand-lt-hoodie-289620

Mountain Hardware JMT 35 Backpack https://www.mountainhardwear.com/p/jmt-35l-backpack-1938331.html

Snugpak Ionosphere Tent https://amzn.to/3w0mc3E
Thermarest XTherm Sleeping Pad https://amzn.to/3vcsEBr
UGQ Outlaw Hybrid Quilt https://ugqoutdoor.com/top-quilts/outlaw-hybrid-quilt/

NiteCore UT27 Headlamp https://amzn.to/3rAdZ3x
NiteCore Power Bank https://amzn.to/3B4hiD0
Fenix Lantern https://amzn.to/3xVMlj9

Kershaw Cryo II Folding Knife https://amzn.to/2Sej6aD
Oakley Men's Gradient Flak Jacket 03-881 Black Wrap Sunglasses : https://amzn.to/2WcOGYm
Garmin Instinct Solar GPS Watch : https://amzn.to/3GvkPMC

Toaks 750ML Pot with Bail Handle https://amzn.to/3ywOpOw
TOAKS Titanium Long Handle Spoon with Polished Bowl https://amzn.to/3vcItrL

Esbit Fuel Tabs https://amzn.to/3t1ZBC6
Small Esbit Stove : https://amzn.to/3CtWE09
Lighters : https://amzn.to/3vhdXwU

Tasmanian Tiger Modular Pouch Kit https://amzn.to/3grXq4m
Tasmanian Tiger Mesh Pouch Kit : https://amzn.to/35qSqXc
...
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This channel is Agenda Free and is fully supported by the viewers. 

Support TOGR through Patreon : https://www.patreon.com/TOGR 

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..
Web Site : 
Check out our web site for more information concerning everything seen on our Channel including reviews, insight into what is coming up and a chance to vote and influence our upcoming overnight adventures.

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Thursday, March 10, 2022

2022 Snugpak Quality Inspection - New VS OLD - Snugpak Ionosphere Bivy T...



There was a point in time where I could easily recommend Snugpak and their products but that changed after a major drop in quality.

Years have passed since I have reviewed anything from the company and that changes today; in this episode I am comparing the old version of the Snugpak Ionosphere to the newest one and will be performing a quality inspection.

Will there be problems? Has Snugpak improved since my last review?
...
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...
Snugpak Quality Comparison - Ionosphere Tent

What this is all about :
Back in October of 2013 I put up my video review of the Snugpak Ionosphere tent and it was a glowing review. The Ionosphere was a fantastic shelter and at that time the company Snugpak had a very good reputation.

Going forward in time to 2018 my positive opinion of Snugpak began to change; product failure after product failure, quality issue after quality issue -

issues with terrible seam taping, so bad that a product was unusable.

There were issues with leaking sleeping mats, hardware failures and so on.

It got to the point where I had a very hard time recommending a Snugpak product and when asked about them, I would suggest that if a viewer was to buy one of their products they do so through Amazon or through a store that had a very good return policy. Also, as soon as the individual received a product, they needed to inspect it closely for issues.

What was the change that took place at Snugpak? The company moved their manufacturing to China.
….
Currently :

Since the company began having issues with their products and quality, I personally made the decision to stop supporting them and have purchased anything from the company since then. That changes today!

More on this in a moment.

When it comes to reports from others, over the years I have heard both good and bad from viewers concerning the company. Also, reviews online are a bit all over the place; there are plenty of good reviews assuming they are real and at the same time, there are more than a few reports of poor quality; also assuming that they are real.

I did notice that there are some reviews on YT that were done within the last year where users had issues with quality and leaking. A shout out to Grunt Proof for keeping it real and honest - with so many YT channels lying and selling products it’s good to see a channel like mine where the host gives it to you straight!


Why I purchased this tent? :

My plan for 2022 is to reevaluate Snugpak and it begins with the Ionosphere. Maybe the company has turned things around but then again, maybe not!

I loved the design of the Ionosphere and I would like to be able to confidently recommend it to my viewers but I won’t be able to do that until I have not only closely observed the quality but have also tested it out.

With my testing and evaluations, it begins in this episode where I am going to set up this tent and take a close look at it. Also, I’m going to compare the new version to the old tent that I purchased back in 2013. Yes I still have it and I use it all the time.

The next test that I will be doing will be in regards to waterproofing. The old version that I have has never let me down and it has been through crazy amounts of rain.
…….
Stats :

Retail Price is virtually the same : $230 - can be found at a lower price on Amazon. I paid $180 for this tent recently.

Weight :
New Model Weight : 3.65lbs
Old Model Weight : 3.56

Dimensions Stored New : 19” x 6”
Dimensions Stored Old : 19” x 6”

Materials :
These don’t seem to have changed over the years according to the company

FLY SHEET
210t Polyester RipStop PU with a 5000mm rating

INNER TENT
190t Nylon with Polyester Mesh

GROUND SHEET
Bathtub Style 190t Nylon w/5000mm PU coating

POLES
DAC Featherlite Poles made from TH72M aluminum

All of this matches my notes from many years ago.
………….
Differences :

Issues :

A few things I noticed -
The new version doesn’t feature the same level of stitching on the storage bag -

The compression straps are substantially shorter with the new version

….
What comes next :
Waterproof testing is next; are there going to be any leaks or issues? Find out soon here on TOGR
...

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Monday, March 7, 2022

As Packable and as Warm as Down? Outdoor Research SuperStrand LT Hoodie ...


Wow, I'm impressed!
This Synthetic Insulation is the closest to Down that I have EVER SEEN!

The VerticalX SuperStrand insulation that Outdoor Research has developed combines the benefits of down insulation (lightweight with an impressive warmth-to-weight ratio) with the benefits of synthetic insulation (warmth when wet).

This is the Outdoor Research SuperStrand LT Hoodie Jacket Agenda Free Review!
...
Agenda Free Link : https://www.outdoorresearch.com/us/mens-helium-down-hoodie-277572

Price : Retail is $280 but at the time of filming can be found for less than $200.

Weight : 14.6oz for the medium size

Materials :
Pertex Shield Diamond Fuse (2.5-layer), [face fabric] Pertex Diamond Fuse (100% nylon ripstop), [lining] 100% nylon 20D ripstop
YKK Zippers
800+ fill goose down, RDS-certified

Sizes : Small - X Large

Colors : Madder red, Black, yellow and black and so on.

PRODUCT FEATURES
A lightweight down jacket for active pursuits in alpine conditions

Durable face fabric reinforced at key points with waterproof fabric

High-loft down delivers impressively packable warmth-to-weight ratio

Elastic cuffs and drawcord hem keep out chilly weather and trap heat

Left hand pocket doubles as a stuff sack, includes carabiner loop

Brushed tricot lining inside hand pockets offers a soft touch

Chest pocket equipped with media details

Pros :
Excellent quality jacket

Very well made - no issues with stitching


No issues with down loss

Excellent wind resistance

Warmer than the average middle weight down jacket

It can be stored inside its own pocket

Waterproof fabric along the shoulders and hood

Sizing is on the bulkier side which I like; plenty of room to move and for layer which expands the use of this jacket.

Reenforced sections

Excellent zippers, very smooth

Windblock behind the zipper

Chin guard materials is present if you have zipped all the way up.

Lifetime warranty

Good hood; adjustable and warm

Very large internal pockets

Good value for the money; when taking into account the warmth, the features, the weight, compressibility and the robustness of the materials, the value for the money is there and the price is comparable to other available options.

Fairly lightweight

Fairly compressible

Cons :
Not the lightest down jacket but it is tougher; so the question is, what do you need? Weight wise, completely acceptable but there are lighter jackets on the market.

The same can be said for compressibility - not the most compressible - within acceptable ranges though.

Reenforcement areas could be expanded to the cuffs where a majority of down jacket punctures take place at - pushing through brush, climbing over a rock, that is where the reenforcements are truly needed.

Hand pockets are only half lined with hand warming material; I would like to see that material on both sides

Summary :
The Outdoor Research Helium Down Hood is a bit different when it comes to being a down jacket. It stronger, slightly more waterproof, wind resistant, warmer, and heavier and is made for taking a bit more abuse.

With that being said, while more waterproof and stronger than your average down jacket, you still need to be careful with the materials and with the weather. This isn’t made to be in bushwhacked in or to be in full on rain.

In the end, do I recommend this jacket?

I do, it is a top notch performer and while there are less expensive down jackets out there, check out my reviews, this one does punch above its weight class in many ways.
...
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Saturday, March 5, 2022

Heavy Rain, Strong Winds - Stealth Hike, Cook and Camp Set Up


In this episode of TOGR Luke is heading out on a stealth adventure in the rain and wind; along the way he's setting up camp and cooking an incredibly meal!

Filmed with GoPro Hero 10 and Sony A7S III cameras.

Gear List for this Adventure :
After receiving countless messages from viewers about supporting the channel through Amazon, I have begun using Amazon Affiliate links in the Adventure Videos and if you choose to purchase one of these products via these links I will receive a small commission which will help fund future honest reviews and adventures.

The channel remains as it always was, 100% Agenda Free with no sponsored videos, no paid reviews, and I don't care if you purchase these products or not; you won't find affiliate links in review videos only in adventures.

I'm going to do my best to put gear lists into all of my videos since everyone is asking for them all the time.

For this trip, here are the big items that I used.

:::::: Stealth Rain and Wind Gear List ::::::

Camera Equipment :

GoPro 10 : https://amzn.to/3BSAJhZ
GoPro Batteries : https://amzn.to/3jPJba9
GoPro Wind Cover : https://amzn.to/3AtoN58
SIRUI Carbon Fiber Travel 5C Tripod : https://amzn.to/3BEahZX

Sony A7S III : https://amzn.to/3eZM7zb
- Sony 20mm 1.8 Lens : https://amzn.to/3Fi3XbK
- SIRUI Carbon Fiber Travel 5C Tripod : https://amzn.to/3BEahZX
- Batteries : https://amzn.to/3geFtG5
- Rode VideoMic Pro Plus Mic : https://amzn.to/3iZMqMO
- Sony TOUGH-G SDXC UHS-II 128GB V90 Memory Card : https://amzn.to/3efDS16

Clothing :
Fjallraven Zip-Off Pants : https://amzn.to/3leUdXb
OldNavy Active T-Shirt : oldnavy
USMC Fleece Sweater : eBay.com for green https://amzn.to/3xVNWph for brown
Arcteryx Conveyor Belt : https://amzn.to/3i3CRfb
Darn Tough Socks : https://amzn.to/3mx20A5
Soloman Boots : https://amzn.to/3AgcV5X
Smartwool Merino Wool Hat : https://amzn.to/3feJv0Y
Knit Gloves :

5.11 Rain Jacket : https://amzn.to/3di4ONi
Outdoor Research Helium II Rain Pants : https://amzn.to/3bKRiS9

Gear :
Garmin Instinct Solar GPS Watch : https://amzn.to/3GvkPMC

Helikon-Tex Woodsman Anorak : https://amzn.to/3ffSkr8

Fjallraven Kaipak 28 Backpack : https://amzn.to/2TaxHEz

British Military BCB FireDragon Mini Cooker Stove : Import
Expedition Research Hexamine Solid Fuel Tablets : https://amzn.to/3fi3E6e
Lighters : https://amzn.to/3vhdXwU
Water Bag : https://amzn.to/3Kf9Vw4

Sundick Table : Aliexpress
OneTigris Folding Chair (Coyote) : https://amzn.to/3yr40Po

Evernew Titanium Pot : https://amzn.to/3oBJTv5
Black Plate : https://amzn.to/3dFi3HT
Imusa Skillet : https://amzn.to/3fdnFuK
Optimus Vega Gas Stove : https://amzn.to/3toucsh
Fuel Canister : https://amzn.to/35LnNzg

Onetigris Wild Haven Tent : https://amzn.to/3vBywqR

Opinel No8 Knife : https://amzn.to/3quS4Zi

Tasmanian Tiger Modular Pouch Kit : https://amzn.to/3grXq4m
Tasmanian Tiger Mesh Pouch Kit : https://amzn.to/35qSqXc
Swiss M71 Stove : https://amzn.to/3fAjxnr
Toaks 750ML Pot with Bail Handle : https://amzn.to/3ywOpOw
TOAKS Titanium Long Handle Spoon with Polished Bowl : https://amzn.to/3vcItrL

Kershaw Cryo II Folding Knife : https://amzn.to/2Sej6aD
NiteCore NU32 Headlamp : https://amzn.to/3fxqLbU
....
100% Agenda Free :
This channel is Agenda Free and is fully supported by the viewers.
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Wednesday, March 2, 2022

This Military Product is Amazing! Sleeping Bag, Blanket, Woobie - US Zip...


The US Military Poncho Liner has for years stayed virtually the same with very few changes....that was the case until recently when a major modification was made and a zipper was added!

This is a first look at the US Military Zippered Poncho Liner and folks, it's better than ever! Also, I go over somer repairs that I made to the used liner that I picked up on eBay.
....

Want to Send Us Something?

TOGR - PO Box 111
7378 Old US 421 S
Deep Gap, NC 28618


FYI; I don't live in the Deep Gap area, I only have a PO Box there for packages due to privacy; it may take me a few weeks to check the box due to distance.
...
The Updated US Military Zippered Poncho Liner / Woobie Blanket

What it is : Last week I put up my review of the US Military Poncho Liner, AKA The Woobie Blanket - the version without the zipper - this video is going to focus on the zippered version which I mentioned I would be getting in soon.

For the most part, this is the exact same poncho liner; it can be used in all of the same ways with the exception being this - this version features a zipper that goes around the body of the blanket. When zippered it creates a sleeping bag of sorts.

Agenda Free Link : https://www.ebay.com/itm/284019667024

Rarity : Locating a legit military surplus poncho liner with a zippered body isn’t all that easy - they aren’t available on the civilian market like the traditional, non-zippered model. Very limited supply and limited number of sellers.

Price : When I purchased this poncho liner, I located it for sale on eBay and I paid $32 for it and that included free shipping. The condition was Grade D.

The grading scale is simple; A is best & that would be like new.

D is bad and F is terrible with everything else in between.

When I purchased this, the seller that Ihave linked to only had Grade D liners but at the time of filming this video, they have B, C and D

Grade B’s were listed for $100.

Weight :
1lb 10.2oz

Measurements Unfolded :
88” long - 64” wide

Measurements Zippered :
88” long - 32”

Measurements Compressed :
12” long x 6”
…..
Info :
The poncho liner is part of a wet weather System; the poncho liner was designed to work with the US military poncho as an insulation layer but can be used by itself in numerous ways.

Blanket - protective cover - sleeping bag and so on.

Colors : With this specific zippered poncho liner, I have only seen this available in a digital woodland; it may be available in other patterns but I haven’t seen them myself. The traditional version can be found in digital woodland, the Army’s universal combat pattern, USAF’s Environmental Camo and so on.

My thoughts comparing this zippered poncho liner to the traditional model;

I much prefer the zipper and having the ability to make this into a true sleeping bag. You could do that with the traditional model but since it couldn’t be zippered it wasn’t quite as warm.

This newer version retains all of the benefits of the traditional with no sacrifices from my perspective.
….
Condition of the Liner :
I mentioned that I purchased this liner in a graded D condition and that’s exactly what I received. It featured a large size hole that went all the way through and the zipper was almost broken. Luckily it was repairable and I was able to correct the issues to my satisfaction with an iron-on polyester patch - once it was in place, I went around the patch with my wife’s sewing machine. I also repaired the zipper as well as I could by hand and have re-enforced it. It’s nice and smooth and should be usable for years to come.
….
Variants :
Before I say goodbye, I’ve mentioned in my review of the traditional poncho liner that there are many companies out there who make variants of this product; some make replicas while others have a product that is loosely based upon the original military spec. The products that are loosely based on the mil spec are known as “Styles”

- US Military Poncho Liner “Style”

One has to be careful when purchasing a product like this as there are a lot of companies who are willing to do and say anything to make a sale. They may even go as far as saying that a product is legit military surplus when that isn’t accurate or true at all.

I recently got in one of these military style poncho liners with a zipper and I will have a video up next week discussing it and how it’s different.

I can tell you this much, it is very interesting!!! The Differences may shock you.
...
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