Showing posts with label EDC. Show all posts
Showing posts with label EDC. Show all posts

Tuesday, July 15, 2025

Helikon-Tex Has Done It Again - Helikon-Tex RAT Pack


What I have here today is part one of a three-part system that I'm putting together for summer time use. 

This is the Helikon-Tex Rat Pack and you can wear this in countless ways;
- waist
- lumbar
- cross-body

I Didn't Expect to love it but I do!

Links : 
- Black Multicam Helikon-Tex RAT Waist Pack : https://amzn.to/40cUFuj
- Black Helikon-Tex RAT Waist Pack : https://amzn.to/44ZQyUU
- Coyote Brown Helikon-Tex RAT Waist Pack : https://amzn.to/44qcUih
- Brown/Grey Helikon-Tex RAT Waist Pack : https://amzn.to/40Bm6hF
- Shadow Grey Helikon-Tex RAT Waist Pack : https://amzn.to/4llMGU1
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Additional Links : 

Camera Gear : 
- R5 Batteries : https://amzn.to/48coC0k
- 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/3tj6Ubf

: Clothing : 
- Darn Tough Socks : https://amzn.to/3mx20A5
- Columbia Crestwood Shoes : https://amzn.to/3TyWMEs
- Arcteryx Conveyor Belt : https://amzn.to/3QSnzsi

- Garmin EPIX 2 Watch : https://amzn.to/3Rfqduf
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- Permethrin for Clothing & Gear : https://amzn.to/37V3FvQ

If you purchase anything from the links above, you will be supporting the channel through a small commission on Amazon.  Thank you for the support and remember, TOGR is 100% Agenda Free.
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Wednesday, January 10, 2024

Under $35 - This EDC Knife is Surprising! - Petrified Fish Bunta Flipper...


I can't believe that this knife only costs $35!

Some time back a friend of mine (Mike) sent me the Petrified Fish Bunta as a gift and I have been running this flipper as my daily carry blade ever since - I love it and for the money, I am very impressed with what you get.

This is a midsize flipper knife that packs a punch, both in performance and value. 

- Petrified Fish Bunta Knife G10 : https://amzn.to/3vxELxP

Additional Links : 
: Camera Gear :
- 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/3tj6Ubf

: Clothing : 
- Fjällräven Vidda Pro Ventilated Pants : https://amzn.to/3ytuwYw
- Darn Tough Socks : https://amzn.to/3mx20A5
- Soloman Boots : https://amzn.to/3AgcV5X
- Arcteryx Conveyor Belt : https://amzn.to/3QSnzsi
- Kershaw Cryo II Folding Knife : https://amzn.to/2Sej6aD
- Garmin EPIX 2 Watch : https://amzn.to/3Rfqduf
- Oakley Men's Gradient Flak Jacket 03-881 Black Wrap Sunglasses : https://amzn.to/3BmWcBI


- Smartwool Beanie : https://amzn.to/45sgyWZ
- Knit Gloves : https://amzn.to/47Xeqbn

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Bunta Details : 

Weight : 5.1 ounces 

Size (folded) : 4.7 inches 

Blade : 3.35 inches 

Handle : 4.5” long 

Total Length when open : 7.91 inches. 

The blade thickness is 3.6mm at its thickest point

Broad blade at 1.24” across. 

Blade material : D2 tool steel

Edge : majority of the blade is full flat grind

Point : Modified drop point or spear point blade - to be honest, this is unusual enough where I don’t know exactly what to call it.  Modified for sure. Nonetheless, I like it a lot. 

Handle materials : G10 or Micarta scales

Colors : Black, Gray, Green 

Stainless steel liner and Liner lock
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Thursday, November 19, 2020

Real Review - Small, Bright and Compact - Fenix E28R Flashlight


This is the Agenda Free Real World Review of the Fenix E28R rechargeable flashlight!

Small. Powerful. 
1500 Lumens. 
18650 Battery.
Almost perfect....almost!

....

100% Agenda Free

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Fenix E28R Flashlight 


Price : $65

Weight including Battery : 4oz

Measurements : L 4.2” Head D 1.04” Body D .88”

Battery Type : 3400mah 18650 or 2x CR123A batteries

Materials : premium anodized aluminum

Button : Side Switch on and off and mode selection

Lens : Lightly frosted

LED : SST40 Cool White

Modes : 6 Modes – ECO, Low, Medium, High, Turbo, Strobe

Tail Stand Non Magnetic base Electronic lockout Indicator LED

USB – C Fast Charging port Rotatable pocket clip that doesn’t offer deep pocket carry
....
Usage :

Fenix E28R features single button UI with a multicolor LED indicator at the center of the button/switch. The LED indicator shows the battery status:

Green light ON: 85% - 100%

Green light Blinking: 50% - 85%

Red light ON: 25% - 50%

Red light Blinking: 1% - 25%

and can only be activated at flashlight OFF state.

A single click will light up the indicator LED for 3 seconds to show the battery status. The UI of Fenix E28R follows its usual press-and-hold for 0.5 seconds for ON/OFF, single click to cycle the modes of Eco-Low-Medium-High-Turbo. Strobe must be activated explicitly by holding the switch for 1.2 seconds (just hold it down until your flashlight flashes) in either ON/OFF state.

There are mode memory in all modes except strobe.

Electronic lockout can be engaged by double-clicking the switch button from OFF state, Fenix E28R will flashes twice to indicate the flashlight is in locked state. When in electronic lockout state, Fenix E28R will just flashes twice to indicate its electronic lockout is engaged. There are several ways to unlock Fenix E28R:

Method 1. Double-clicking the switch button again, Fenix E28R will flashes twice, Fenix E28R will turned-On in Eco mode.

Method 2. Connect the USB-C fast charging port to a power source via USB-C cable, this will disengage the electronic lockout.

Method 3. Loosen the body quarter turn, this will effectively cut-off/open the current flow. This is also an effective method to mechanically/physically lockout Fenix E28R.

Review Pros :
Excellent fit and finish – looks good Feels good in the hand good size for those who like a smaller flash light – compact lightweight lightweight good performance all around with good stepping adequate switch detection which means that you can find the button within a reasonable amount of time even in the dark. Good battery life Button gives good feedback when clicked USB-C port is a great….if there has to be a physical port I like for it to be USB C. - flip-over the cover will reveal the USB-C fast charging port, in my charging test, the port pulls ~1.8A for charging and the whole flashlight feels warm during charging. Fenix claims to feature an inner waterproofing treatment to the USB-C port, thus, it should be safe even if the cover was broken or the charging port was subject to water immersion. The beam is particularly wide and well defined.

When charging - During charging, the status indicator will light up constant Red and turned into Green when E28R is fully charged. You can still use Fenix E28R during charging, however, there is only single Eco mode brightness available for use during charging.

Interesting : Interestingly, Fenix E28R can also be use without the body tube when connecting the USB-C fast charging port to a power source as seen from above picture. However, you only have access to Low mode (not Eco mode) when used in this manner.

Review Cons :
Rubber covered charging port; it is 2020 and it is time to move passed charging ports as they are a weak point for the light. Magnetic charging is the future and it would be easy to develop a magnetic charger that features a detachable usb – c base.

As for other cons, I don’t have any. In the end it is a good quality flashlight that is small, light, compact and performs very well. While I would like to see magnetic charging USB C is a definite plus for myself and my personal preferences.

Wednesday, July 1, 2020

10,000 Lumens of Power - Fenix LR35R – Prototype Preview




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Luke has gotten his hands on a Prototype of an upcoming Fenix Flashlight; the Fenix LR35R!

It offers 10,000 Lumens in a small form factor and in this episode he shares his experiences and thoughts.



Cost : $200

Agenda Free Link : https://www.fenixlighting.com/product/fenix-lr35r-rechargeable-flashlight/

Weight with Batteries and Lanyard : 13.7oz

Who is it designed for : searching, rescuing and law enforcement.

Ratings :

Eco : 50 (80H runtime)

Low : 450 (8.5hr)

Med : 1200 (3h 15m)

High : 3000 (1.5hr)

Turbo : 10,000 9 (1hr 20)

Strobe : 10,000

Max Throw : 500m

LR35R Battery : Two included 21700 rechargeable li-ion batteries

ip68 rated – dust proof and waterproof to 2m

Size : 5.5” long x head 2.0

On/off :

With the light unlocked and switched off, press and hold the switch for 0.5 seconds to turn on the light.

With the light switched on, press and hold the switch for 0.5 seconds to turn off the light.

Output Selection :

In general mode, single click the switch to cycle through Eco→Low→Med→High→Turbo.

Mode Switching :

In general mode, press and hold the switch for 1.2 seconds to enter strobe; single click the switch again to turn back to the last used output in general mode.

Lock/Unlock :

Lock : with the light unlocked and switched off, double click the switch to lock the light, the light will blink twice on Eco to indicate locked status.

Unlock : with the light locked and switched off, double click the switch, the light will be unlocked and activated on Eco.

In locked status, clicking or pressing the switch will activate 2 one-second blinks on Eco to indicate locked status.

Battery Replacement Unscrew the tail cap to insert the battery with the anode side (+) towards the light head, then screw the tail cap back on. Intelligent Memory Circuit

The light memorizes the last selected output of general mode. When turned on again the previously used output of general mode will be recalled.

Intelligent Overheat Protection

The light will accumulate a lot of heat when used on Med, High, Turbo output level for extended periods. When the light reaches a temperature of 65°C or above, the light will automatically step down a few lumens to reduce the temperature. When the temperature drops below 65°C, it will then allow the user for the reselection of Turbo mode.

Low Voltage Warning When the voltage level drops below the preset level, the flashlight is programmed to downshift to a lower brightness level until Eco output is reached. When this happens in Eco output, the battery level indicator blinks to remind you to recharge or replace the battery.

Battery Level Indication With the light switched off, single click the switch to check the battery status, the indicator will last for 3seconds.

Green light on : saturated 100% – 85%

Green light flashes : sufficient 85% – 50%

Red light on : poor 50% – 25%

Red light flashes : critical 25% – 1%

Note : The indicator will display for 3 seconds each time the general mode is switched on.

First switch off the light and plug the USB A socket of the charging cable into an electrical outlet, then connect the USB Type-C socket of the charging cable to the light.

The indicator will display red while charging, and will turn to green when fully charged.

Once charging is completed, be sure to close the anti-dust cover.

Note:

Only Eco output level is available when charging.

The normal charging time is approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes from depletion to full charging.

Recharge a stored light every four months to maintain optimum performance of the battery.


6 Luminus SST40 LED’s with a lifespan of 50,000 hours.

10,000 lumens maximum output; 500 meters maximum beam distance.

Included 2 x 21700 rechargeable Li-ion power batteries.

USB Type-C charging port.

Battery level indication for instant checking of remaining battery level.

Lockout function avoids accidental activation.

Intelligent overheat protection against high surface temperature.

Intelligent memory circuit recalls the last used brightness level.

Premium type HAIII hard-anodized anti-abrasive finish.

Included:

Two ARB-L21-4000P rechargeable li-ion batteries, Type-C charging cable, holster, lanyard, spare O-ring

Warranty:

Limited Lifetime Guarantee from Fenix Lighting USA

Saturday, February 22, 2020

Pathfinding old Forest Roads - Surrounded by Coyotes - Solo Overnight Ad...



This channel is Agenda Free and is fully supported by the viewers.
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Picture this;

The sun has gone down and the moon is rising.

The crackle of the fire is all that you hear while enjoying your dinner when a sharp howl releases from the forest followed by dozens more.

You're Surrounded!

You see eyes in the forest watching.....

Thank you all for joining me for my next adventure, this was an awesome trip and I am excited to share it.

S&H

...

Gear List :

Warrior Assault ELITE OPS X300 PACK :

This pack is hard to find in the USA but can be found and ordered here; https://tacsale.eu/product/warrior-assault-systems-elite-ops-x300-pack-od-green

Kelty 1 Person Field Tent

MLD Ground Sheet

Rakaia Designs Yekka - Double Sided Sleeping Pad

Thermarest Sleeping bag

Woox Rock 62 knife

EKA Viking Combi Stove

Woox AX1 Bushcraft Wood Axe

Befree Water Filter Bag

SOTO G stove ST 320

Butane Bottle

Thermostack Cook Set Combo

Helikon-Tex Numbat Chest Rig

If you have any gear questions, email me.


Wednesday, February 19, 2020

Serious Waste of Money! - Rothco General Purpose First Aid Kit




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...

It is a windy and rainy day in the mountains so Luke is indoors to take a look at the Rothco General Purpose First Aid Kit and it becomes clear that this is one of the worst first aid kits on the market for the money.

$53 for this?

I don't think so!



Agenda Free Link : https://www.rothco.com/product/rothco-general-purpose-first-aid-kit

Price : $53

Weight : 1lb 6oz


Friday, January 10, 2020

�� Cut Chop Feather - Hogue EX-F01 5.5" Knife - Field Test



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Thanks to a friend who encouraged me to pick up this knife, we have a new blade to test out!  This is the Hogue EX-F01 5.5" Knife and today I'm getting it out into the forest for a Field Test!

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Agenda Free Link : https://www.hogueinc.com/ex-f01-fixed-blade-5-5-black-cerakote-drop-point-blade-cocobolo-hardwood-scales

Price : $200 on amazon at the time of filming; retail is $240

Weight of knife : 10.1oz

Weight of Knife and Sheath : 17.2oz / little over a pound

Made in the USA

Limited Lifetime warranty

Versions : At the time of filming, there are 23 different versions of this knife.  I have linked to the Hogue web site and the version that I purchased. It’s available with different materials and finishes for a low-key visual footprint. It’s available with either a drop-point or Tanto blade profile. Tanto blade models feature a saw back.

Hogue : Hogue, well known for their gun related accessories was founded in 1968 by Guy Hogue and the company today is carried on by his son’s which I think is cool.  While they are well known for their gun grips, stocks and hostlers they have ventured into the knife market with excellent results from what I have been told.

All Hogue knives are designed by custom knifemaker and former Recon Marine. Allen Elishewitz

This is my first experience with a Hogue knife with a friend of mine hounding me to death about his EX-F01 blade.

SPECS
• Blade Length: 5.5”
• Overall Length: 10.5”
• Weight: 10.4 oz

BLADE

• Style: Drop Point with Flat Grind
• Thickness: 0.235”
• Material: A2 Tool Steel
• Hardness: 57-59 HRC
• Treatment: Cryogenically Heat Treated – fire arms finish
• Finish: Black Cerakote®
• Flat Grind - Hand Honed Edge
Full tang

FEATURES

• Frame: Cocobolo Hardwood Scales
• Includes Ballistic Nylon MOLLE Sheath
• Lanyard/Lashing Holes
• Impact Pommel

Thoughts :

The blade size is perfect for myself; this is a 7 inch version but for most tasks I find that 5.5” is the perfect balance of useability and utility.  Not so big that it becomes awkward for certain tasks.  Generally once you go pasted the 5.5” length, in my opinion the blade becomes excellent for very specific tasks such as battoning and less effective as an all around camp tool

Excellent balance.

Most comfortable grip I have ever experienced.

Sheath is fine but isn’t my personal preference. It doesn’t have any glaring issues. The quality is excellent and if you are into tactical, then it will serve you well. Cordura® Ballistic Nylon with bar-tack stitching. The sheath is ambidextrous and jumpable. MOLLE Compatible. – When fully seated, there is absolutely no rattle!

Excellent quality
Sharp
Thick steel
Well designed

Middle of the road design; Combat/Tactical/Survival type knife

A2 is known for its toughness and edge-holding ability. It will hold an edge better than 01 tool steel and 1095 and is more corrosion resistant. It takes a very sharp edge and is fairly easy to resharpen. The EX-F01 blade features a durable, non-reflective black, green, or tan Cerakote® ceramic coating that provides additional corrosion resistance.

Tool : The hidden storage spaces in the handle of the EX-F01 can be used to store small survival items. A Torx wrench nested in the handle allows easy removal of the scales to access the compartments. Milled recesses in the scales match up with the skeletonized compartments in the tang.


Monday, December 30, 2019

Watch Before Buying! - ThruNite TH01 Headlamp - Real Review





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

Do Not Purchase the ThruNite TH01 Headlamp without watching this review as the product has some serious problems which ThruNite is addressing now. If you purchased one, you may need to want or even have to return it.

Agenda Free Link : http://www.thrunite.com/thrunite-th01-1500-lumen-cree-xhp50-18350-rechargeable-led-headlamp/


Wednesday, December 11, 2019

These Are The Three Winners for the NiteCore NU25 Headlamps




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It is time to announce the winners of the 3 NiteCore NU25 HeadLamps!

Did you win one?

Find out now!

Thank you everyone who entered; make sure to watch for the Christmas Giveaway which will involve high quality 10 Hammocks!

Winners, please email me at;

theoutdoorgearreview@gmail.com

...

Agenda Free Link : https://www.nitecorestore.com/NITECORE-NU25-Headlamp-p/fl-nite-nu25.htm




Sunday, December 1, 2019

3 to Giveaway - NiteCore NU25 HeadLamp - Enter Now




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I've got 3 NiteCore NU25 HeadLamps to giveaway to my awesome viewers!  Want one?  Enter now!

...

Agenda Free Link : https://www.nitecorestore.com/NITECORE-NU25-Headlamp-p/fl-nite-nu25.htm


Monday, November 18, 2019

PD36R or PD35? - Fenix PD36R Flashlight Review



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...

Today Luke has two flashlights, the PD36R and the PD35, both are from Fenix.  Which does he recommend?

Find out now.

Agenda Free Link PD36R : https://www.fenixlighting.com/product/fenix-pd36r-rechargeable-flashlight/

Agenda Free Link PD35 : https://www.fenixlighting.com/product/pd35-fenix-flashlight/

Price of PD36R : $100
Price of PD35 : $70

Weight : 5.8oz

Max Lumens : 1600 Lumens

Battery : Large 5000 mAh Battery - High-capacity 21700

Length: 5.4” (136mm) Body: 1.0” (25.4mm)  Head: 1.0” (26.4mm)

LUMINUS SST-40 LED -  1600 Lumen max output -  USB Type-C charging

Battery Level indicator -  Dual Switch Operation - High-strength Aluminum Body

Premium type HAIII Hard anodized anti-abrasive finish -  PD36R Outputs

Turbo - 1600 Lumens/2.9 hours/928 feet
High - 800 Lumens/5.9 hours/646 feet
Med - 350 Lumens/8.5 Hours/419 feet
Low - 150 Lumens/26 Hours/269 feet
Eco - 30 Lumens/115 Hours/114 feet
Strobe - 1600 Lumens

Green Steady: 85-100% power -  Green Flashing: 50-85% power -   Red Steady: 25-50% power

Red Flashing: 1-25% power

The switch also indicates when the cell power is low during use; red flashing only.

Warmer color to the light; slight yellow tint

Over all I am really happy with this because I feel the beam is a bit wider and I think it makes it more useful all around. The clip is rather nice too, although I only started messing with the clip after recording. My hope is that the side button is good and strong because I recall seeing a review of another model which apparently had multiple people complaining that the side button popped out and they had the parts laying on a piece of paper to show what happened. But I have not seen such reports on the PD36R, but it is early days and I have little doubt that issue was a model-isolated incident since out of all my Fenix lights, I never had such a thing happen ever.

USB-C : Finally I have a flashlight which has USB-C; the same cable as my phone.

Dual switches
Battery level indictor

I can’t think of a thing to complain about on this light.  It meets its specifications, and is a reasonably priced complete package light.

Brighter than the advertised rating according to online testers who have equipment to test lumens ratings.

The PD36R is well built.  There’s nothing glaringly bad, and everything works like it should.  I like the e-switch cover in particular, as I’m partial to metal switch covers.

Also for retaining the light is a two-way friction fit pocket clip, which attaches only on the tail end.  It’s quite snug, and can hold the lanyard thorough a hole in the shoulder.

Runtimes for Turbo and High follow.  The drop off Turbo is fairly quick, then the light holds 1400 lumens for a good 20 minutes, then around 950 lumens for around 100 minutes.  The light didn’t shut off, but output became so low, you’ll notice lowered output.

The charge port cover works fairly well, and stays put when it’s pressed down.

PROS :

Meets and exceeds specification

Simple to use

Good complete package light

Utilizes USB-C for charging

Fast charges the 5000mAh 21700 - A full charge takes just 4 hours

Metal e-switch cover

Good charging port cover – doesn’t pop open

Indicating side-switch

It features a smooth reflector and it gives you a really nice beam pattern where you have focused beam along with a really good spill that allows you to see everything in front of you.

With turbo mode, you get almost 3 hours of runtime, with the high mode you get almost 6 hours, and with the medium mode you get 8 and a half hours. These are extremely impressive runtimes for the higher outputs. We normally don’t see such fantastic runtimes which makes me very excited about the PD36R.

Pocket clip is tight

CONS :

No direct access to low

Overall long light

Can’t tail-stand

Can get hot with higher mode use

I was surprised to see that the eco mode was 30 lumens. I would have expected the eco mode to be 5 lumens or less so that was a bit of a surprise.




Wednesday, October 16, 2019

Winner Announcement - Fenix E30R Rechargeable EDC Flashlight





This channel is Agenda Free and is fully supported by the viewers.
Support TOGR with Patreon : https://www.patreon.com/TOGR

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It is time to announce the winner of the Fenix E30R flashlight!

Was it You?  Did you win?

Find out now!

Thank you all for entering, another giveaway is coming up soon.



Link : https://www.fenix-store.com/fenix-e30r-rechargeable-edc-flashlight/




Monday, September 30, 2019

Small + Powerful But Not Perfect - Olight Baton Pro Review - EDC - 2,000...



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

Luke is here with a review of the newly released Olight Baton Pro flashlight and will be going over his pros and cons and even an odd glitch which he experienced with this EDC light.

Agenda Free Link : https://www.olightstore.com/baton-pro-bk.html


Friday, August 9, 2019

Giveaway - Fenix E30R Flashlight - Enter Now





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

This is the Fenix E30R Flashlight and I have been 'running' with one of these for the last couple of months; it's an excellent flashlight and in fact, it is so good that I want to give one away to a lucky viewer!

ENTER NOW!




Friday, July 12, 2019

Fenix E30R Flashlight - Rechargeable - EDC - Review



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This is the Fenix E30R Flashlight;
Small form factor
1600 max lumens
Rechargeable
What's not to like?

I'll answer that question in this review.



Link : https://www.fenix-store.com/fenix-e30r-rechargeable-edc-flashlight/
Price : $80
Weight : 3.7oz with battery, lanyard and pocket clip
Battery : 18650
Max Power : 1600 Lumens Fenix ARB-L18-3500 included (two CR123A Lithium batteries can be used in emergency)
Form Factor : EDC
Measurements : 3.9 inches in length and 0.85 inches in diameter body. 1” diam. Head.
Charger Type : Magnetic
Max Run Time : 70.5 hrs on eco mode which is 30 lumens
Light Type : Cool White; I don’t believe there is a neutral version available, if there is I haven’t see it.

Specifications

Utilizes Luminus SST40 LED with a lifespan of 50,000 hours

5 Output Modes Plus Strobe (runtimes based on using a 18650 3500mAh rechargeable Li-ion battery)

Turbo: 1600 Lumens - 1 hr. 27 min.
High: 800 Lumens - 1 hr. 55 min.
Mid: 350 Lumens - 5 hr. 28 min.
Low: 150 Lumens - 17 hrs. 32 min.
Eco: 30 Lumens - 70 hrs. 30 min.
Strobe: 1600 Lumens

4-level Battery indicator

Soft and Balanced Beam

Extreme Output: 1600 Lumens with visibility distance of 666 ft.

Magnetic suction charging port in the neck

Ultra-thin Optical lens

Tailored magnetic charging cable also available in portable Micro USB devices

Lock-out function avoids accidental operation (Double Click within 0.5 seconds)

One switch for fast, convenient operation

Intelligent over-heat protection to avoid high temperature of the surface

Low-voltage warning reminds when battery replacement is needed

Reverse polarity protection, to protect from improper battery installation

Digitally-regulated output maintains constant brightness – will downshift after roughly 1 minute 30 seconds from turbo to 900 lumens

Heat protection : The light will accumulate a lot of heat when used on Turbo or High output level for extended periods. When the light reaches a temperature of 65℃ or above, the light will automatically step down by 5% every 10 seconds to reduce the temperature, and until to 350 lumens.

When the temperature is reduced below 65℃, Turbo mode can be reselected; or only 900 lumens can be reached.

Review Pros :

Easy to use and understand battery indictor
Green constant on: saturated (100% – 86%)
Green flashes: sufficient (85% – 51%)
Red constant on: poor (50% – 26%)
Red flashes: critical (25% – 1%)

I love the magnetic charging port; usb sockets with rubber cover is old tech and I’m not personally interested in any flashlight which uses it.  With that being said, it would be nice if flashlight and headlight companies could come together and select a unified magnetic port so there was one to charge all.  But because that is unlikely to happen, it would be great if Fenix would make it so that the magnetic end was usb so individuals like myself don’t have to carry a bunch of cables.  Some will dislike that it is a property charging port.

Excellent quality – no issues in the last couple of months of use.

Excellent stepping between modes

Easy to use lock out mode.

Great beam balance; flood and throw

Super small flashlight; perfect for EDC use

Quick charging speed – 3 hours to fully charge

There is no memory settings with this light so every time that you turn it on, it goes back to low.  That maybe a con to some but for myself, it’s a pro as I can use it when I need to in the dark without completely destroying my natural night vision

Review Cons :

On/off switch can be hard to locate in the dark; I rotate the pocket clip over the charging port which means that the on/off switch is on the opposite side which makes it easy to locate.

Can get extremely hot and will do so very quickly.  That is to be expected with so much power though.

There is no true low mode as the lowest setting is 30 lumens.  For some people this is huge, for myself, I don’t mind it at all.

Summary :

For the money, this is in my opinion an excellent edc flashlight.  The performance is good, it doesn’t have any annoying characteristics for myself.  Everyone is different when it comes to flashlights and may want different features such as a memory mode; lower lumen count and so on.

For myself, the only issue to mention is the recessed on/off switch which can hard to locate and use with gloves.

I like the power and I like the size immensely.


Friday, June 7, 2019

That's a Knife! - Maxwell Edition 2 - Viewer Mail Episode #60




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This is the second episode of the Maxwell Edition of Viewer Mail!
Maxwell, I can't thank you enough for all that you have done.
I hope that you all are ready to see some Military Surplus!




Wednesday, June 5, 2019

What the Heck is a Mini Alice Pack?





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What happens when you take a famous piece of military surplus (Alice Pack) and shrink it down to a mini size?

Nothing good!

This is the Mini Alice Pack....



Weight of Entire System : 3lbs 11oz Approx.

Cost of Entire System : $113 before shipping fees

Pack Link : https://www.armysurplusworld.com/small-nylon-alice-pack

Frame : https://www.5ivestargear.com/packs-bags/backpacks/gi-spec-lc-ii-alice-pack-frame-complete

……………………………….

Pack :

Price : $60

The Small Nylon Alice Pack at Army Surplus World is a great, durable pack for recreational use. The Small Nylon Alice Pack is ready to transport your gear safely, time and time again. G.I. Style Mini Alice Pack features shoulder straps, 3 outside pockets and measures 14 1/2" x 12" x 7". ALICE stands for All-Purpose Lightweight Individual Carrying Equipment system and was adopted by the United States Army in the 1960's to help soldiers carry large heavy packs.

It too me forever to figure this out as there are no markings on the pack itself but hidden away on the Army Surplus World Web Site it says that it is made by Rothco and Fox Outdoor.  If you are interested in this pack, make sure to pay attention as Rotcho has a canvas version which will not fit on the frame.

This is referred to as the Rothco G.I. Style Mini Alice Pack

Features According to Manufacture :

• Constructed of durable P.U. coated polyester

• Large main compartment under storm flap

• Hidden map pocket under flap with hook & loop closure

• 3 outside pockets with compression buckles & 2-snap closure

• Wrap around compression straps over storm flap

• Adjustable padded shoulder straps

• 14 1/2" x 12" x 7"

• 600 Denier Polyester

No waist belt unless used with a frame
….

Frame :

GI SPEC LC-II ALICE PACK FRAME COMPLETE

Price : $53

The 5ive Star Gear® GI Spec LC-II ALICE Pack Frame is designed as a mount for either the medium field pack or the large field pack. This frame comes complete with everything you need for comfort to carry large loads with no problem, including shoulder straps and kidney pad. Item is compatible with the 5ive Star Gear® GI Spec LC-II ALICE Pack.;

Features According to Manufacture : 

Heavy duty construction

Complete frames include all straps kidney and shoulder pads

Imported

…..

Summary :

A viewer sent me this pack and for that kindness I am incredibly thankful.

At first, I was highly confused by this; I’ve used medium and large Alice packs but I’ve never seen a small and there is a reason for that; it’s terrible!

As far as a review goes; I wouldn’t purchase this pack and I certainly wouldn’t use it with a frame.  Yes it looks cool and initially I thought that it was really, really awesome but as I begun using it the more it became clear that this simply isn’t a realistic backpack.

At this size, it is too small; so small and so limited that it is virtually impossible to use unless you are carrying only a few items.  I was going to use it with my latest overnight adventure which was a survival trip and I had virtually nothing with me with the exception of a small emergency shelter and some minor camera gear and it simply wouldn’t work.

Look awesome but isn’t useable.

The outside pockets are very small.

You can remove the frame and that will increase the storage of the bag but will decrease the overall comfort as the pack will become more round shaped and won’t fit flatly on the back.

If you like the Alice pack, go with the Medium one; don’t get this one.

Good for school? Maybe if you are carrying a few books….maybe.

Something else to keep in mind is that that Gi Style of packs, copy cats in other words have a strong reputation for failure; it’s a simple fact and if you go out and buy one of these, be ready to treat it gently and to have problems.  This pack is made out of polyester, not nylon.  Polyester isn’t the best of materials for backpacks.

More of a novelty in my opinion and for the pack itself, it is very expensive.  I wouldn’t recommend buying this; take your money and buy something else. Buy a medium alice with frame for $55 and call it a day.

Frame looks to be very well made and I don’t personally see any issues with it.


Monday, March 4, 2019

Vanquest FTIM 6x9 Gen 2 Maximizer - Review



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Today Luke is reviewing the Vanquest FTIM 6x9 Gen 2 Maximizer.
Good? Bad? Worth the cost?
Find out now!

Also, what was that noise at the end of the video?



Link : https://www.vanquest.com/ftim-6x9-gen-2-fast-totally-integrated-maximizer/
Cost : $35
Weight : 6.5oz
Size : 6x9

Colors : Black, Coyote, Gray (red on the way in march)

FTIM 6X9 (Gen-2) New Features: (1) 29 elastic webbing slots; (2) Gear shelf bottom to support vertical items; (3) Hypalon zipper pull tabs and Spartan zipper pulls; (4) 500-D CORDURA coated with Durable Water Repellent (DWR); (5) Movable/removable 2 position key fob.

The re-designed Fast Totally Integrated Maximizer™ FTIM-6X9 (Gen-2) is an evolved organizer that offers lightning-fast pull-down access and gear-taming organization. It is a hybrid of our signature PPM/EDCM Maximizer™ organizers, and the popular FATPack medical pouches.

We enhanced the zipper function to be as smooth as possible, include two Spartan Zipper Pulls, redesigned the front slip pocket to be easier to access and updated the front hook and loop field to seamlessly flow with the bag. The back MOLLE attachment now uses less nylon webbing for weight savings without losing any compatibility to MOLLE/PALS webbing.

With maximizer staggered/offset elastic loops, 2 included anchor wraps, two internal large slip pockets, two 1” paracord attachment loops with keeper, and 29 vertical and horizontal elastic loops, every slot/pocket in the FTIM is designed to keep every piece of EDC gear the perfect spot! The main compartment bottom shelf also helps retain small gear and prevents accidental drops.

A sturdy grab handle and user-selectable FASTab system lets you quickly unzip the #8 YKK lockable zippers.With one instinctive pull, the FTIM's contents are at the ready. Loop ID panel, exterior slip pocket, and MOLLE/PALS side panels allow expansion of gear carried.

You can attach the pouch onto any MOLLE/PALS surface with MOLLE Sticks (#99MS5X4*); or convert it for hook-and-loop attachment using the MOHL-Air adapter panel (#017700*); or use our 1" UNIVERSAL STRAP (#012001*) to carry it around your shoulder.

Net Weight: 6.5 oz | 184 gram

Internal Dimension: 9” (H) x 6.5” (W) x 2” (D)

One external and two internal storage pockets with 29 elastic webbing slots

Staggered and off-set stitching on elastic webbing reduces unusable space

Grab handle eases hand carry and removing from pockets

Internal 5.5” keychain fob and 1” paracord attachment loop

1.75” (H) x 3” (W) ID/Morale patch loop panel on front

MOLLE/PALS webbing on sides / rear for modular attachment

Compatible with MOLLE Sticks and MOHL Adapter Panel for loop panel attachment

Materials: 500-D Military grade Cordura® fabric with DWR (Durable Water Repellent) for all weather performance.

Subdued Hi-visibility, lightweight & moisture resistant 210-D Ripstop nylon interior.

Durable & abrasion resistant RC-Class locking YKK® #8 zippers, reversed for protection.

Spartan zipper pulls and Hypalon zipper tabs for easy closure

High tensile strength nylon webbings and binding tapes

Finished with high tensile strength bonded nylon thread

Pros :

Excellent quality

Improved zippers – easier to run

Tons of potential organizing.

Will blow your mind when it comes to how much these can hold.

Versatile – I have friend who takes this pouch and connects another pouch with PALS connections and weaves them together and it’s a great way to have a unified system of organizing.

Cons :

Still require MOLLE Sticks to attach to MOLLE and PALS which require an additional $14. I’ve personally never cared for those and would prefer traditional connections. The good news is that the pouch if desired to be carried on the outside can be attached via grimlocs and they work very well.

Expensive – plan and simple but the quality justifies the price and is in-line with similar products




Wednesday, January 30, 2019

Fenix PD35 V2.0 Digital Camo Flashlight - Review



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Seeking an honest real-world review concerning the Fenix PD35 V2.0 Digital Camo Flashlight?  You just found one! 100% agenda free, no store, no affiliates, no BS.  Nothing more than a full review with my thoughts; what I like and what I don't.

Link : https://www.fenixlighting.com/product/pd35-fenix-flashlight/
Price : $75.00 at the time of filming on Fenix.  $84 on Amazon. Retail price is $110.
Weight : 4.6oz with 18650 bat
Colors : Black and Camo version.  Solid black version is cheaper by a few bucks,

Size:
Length: 5.4″ (138mm)
Body: 0.9″ (23mm)
Head: 1.0″ (25.4mm)

Weight: 3.1 oz. (88g) weight excluding batteries

Excellent addition to the PD lineup. The V2.0 brings some additional features that are handy and the beam pattern is significantly better than my PD35 TAC. I will be putting this in my EDC rotation without any hesitation. I do still prefer to have the tactical mode offered in the PD35 TAC to ensure that the light will always come on in turbo mode. However, I don’t think that counts as a negative against the excellent features and performance of the V2.0.

Pros :
Very good built quality
Battery level indicator only with 18650 batteries.
Excellent price.
Plenty of power.
Good stepping.
Green Constant Charged
Green Flashing Sufficient
Red constant – Poor
Red Flashing Drained.
Simple UI
Good build quality
Light has good throw
No complaints when it comes to battery life.

Cons :
No quick access to turbo. Minor.
Doesn’t support flat-top batteries



Summary :

The cornerstone to a proper edc kit is a good flashlight, one that you can rely on and that is what you have here with the PD35.  It’s a good quality light, great battery life, fair price that you can rely on!


Monday, December 10, 2018

Tough! - Fjallraven Kaipak 28 Backpack Review



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Today Luke presents (finally) his review of the Fjallraven Kaipak 28 backpack! Trail Tested!

Simple, TOUGH, Comfortable!



Link : https://www.fjallraven.us/products/kaipack-28
Price : Retail price is $150 but these can be found for $120 on Amazon at the time of filming
Colors : Grey, Red, Blue and Green.
Sizes : 28L, 38L and a 58L
Weight : 2lb 5oz
Dimensions : 22 x 11 x 8in
Raincover Included : yes
Unisex Pack

Materials : G-1000 heavy duty fabric, making it immensely hard wearing and can be treated with Greenland wax if necessary.

Volume : 28L (1709cu in)
Waist Belt : yes
Access : top
Pockets : 2 lid, 1 zippered front, 2 side
Trekking Pole Carry : yes

Pros :
Very comfortable.

There aren’t a thousand straps hanging from everything; simple.  No overly complicated with tons of pockets.

Includes a waist belt which can be used if you want or wrapped the other way around the pack if you don’t need it.

Durable : I’ve had this pack for over a year and it continues to live on.  I have one seam that has started to come undone; no big deal. Considering the use that I have given this pack, it should be worse!

Cons :
The 28L doesn’t have a floating lid whereas the other sizes do.

Overall this is a great day pack which feels comfortable when heading into town as it does spending an afternoon bushcrafting.  It’s well designed, is very comfortable and the price isn’t terrible for being a Fjallraven product.