Showing posts with label camping. Show all posts
Showing posts with label camping. Show all posts

Slumberjack Big Timber Review

Slumberjack Big TimberIt has been many years since I stopped backpaking. I wanted a sleeping bag that would keep me warm and was tough as nails. This bag is not for woosey tofu eating backpakers, (like I used to be). The outside shell is tough waterproof heavy canvas, and the bag would keep you sleeping like a baby on the Polar Ice Cap. This is the most serious sleeping bag I have ever seen in my life. Warm and tough and soft and comfy. I bought a canvas tent with this and it would withstand a storm on an alien planet. If the end of the world comes this bag is what you want. It is extra long also. Forgot to mention that.

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Product Description:
Slumberjack Big & Lil Timber 110003 By Slumberjack

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Wenzel 2008 Windy Pass 0-Degree Mummy Sleeping Bag (Black/Red) Review

Wenzel 2008 Windy Pass 0-Degree Mummy Sleeping BagOk let me start by saying I'm researching survival stuff (best bang for the buck). The one thing I wanted to let people know is you may get cold at zero degrees or 15 degrees but you will be alive the next day, that is something that people get confused on with sleeping bags. Now, after I got this bag out I climbed inside remembering the previous reviews on ripping fabric I carefully zipped it up and could reall feel the bag heating up. Everything was going fine with a little care until I tried to close the top red part around my head with the pull tie.....it ripped, fabric tore, stitching popped, and I was instantly disappointed because of how a few little odd ends can ruin a great product. The bags tearing in certain areas kills the deal for me, I'll try and repair it but don't have alot of faith it will hold together for future use. Find a better bag to buy guys

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Product Description:
Wenzel, the original family camping company, has long felt that next to a quality tent, a good sleeping bag is the most important necessity when it comes to enjoying the camping experience. It's tough to appreciate the outdoors if you can't get a good night's sleep, which is why Wenzel offers a sleeping bag for every temperature range.
The 33-by-84-inch (W x H) Windy Pass sleeping bag is an affordable, mummy-style bag rated to a chilly zero degrees Fahrenheit. A built-in drawstring hood helps keep body heat in, and 56-ounces of non-allergenci Omega II polyester fill will keep you toasty throughout the night. A full-length three-inch draft tube and five-inch shoulder collar ensure comfort every evening, and the polyester inner and outer layers feature offset quilt construction for maximum warmth and durability. A self-repairing, two-way zipper with anti-snag tape will hold up over years of heavy use. The Windy Pass includes an Oxford stuff sack that compresses with two elastic straps.
About Wenzel Camping Gear
Wenzel, established in 1887 and originally an outfitter for explorers and pioneers, was one of the first family camping equipment companies in America. It's Wenzel's mission to help families remember the times of 10 miles a day, not 75 miles an hour, to spend time listening to chirping birds and babbling brooks, not pinging instant messages and ringing cell phones.
The company seeks to create the modern tools that families require to escape to and reconnect with the great outdoors. Each Wenzel product is run through a very specialized filter--Wenzel employees' families. Wenzel knows what family camping is like, which is why the company makes tents that are easy to set up and take down, sleeping bags that feel big and cozy but pack small, and pads that smooth out the roughest forest floor. Wenzel strives to be an ambassador to the great outdoors, encouraging families to return to the place where memories are made.
Amazon.com Sleeping Bag Guide
Sleep Well: Finding the Right Sleeping Bag
Sleeping bag technology has come a long way from the days of cowboy bedrolls. These days, there are a number of high-tech materials and designs available to keep you warm during the coldest outings. Here's a short list of things to keep in mind when you're shopping for a bag:
Buy for Cold
It's a safe bet that on at least one of your adventures, the nighttime temperature will drop unexpectedly. That's why it's smart to buy a bag that's rated for the lowest possible temperature you expect to face on your camping and backpacking trips. For summer trips, a bag rated at +35 degrees or higher will likely do the trick. If you like to camp in higher elevations in the summer, or if spring and fall outings are in your future, consider bags rated from +10 to +35. Winter adventurers should look for bags in the -10 to +10 range, while those on serious winter alpine climbs and expeditions will want a bag rated lower than -10.
Keep in mind that sleeping bag manufacturers' temperature ratings only estimate the minimum temperature at which the bag will provide warmth. Take these numbers with a grain of salt, as different folks generate different amounts of heat when they sleep. If you're the type who likes to pile on the covers even on warmer nights, go for a bag that's rated ten degrees colder. The opposite is true for "warm" sleepers--a 35-degree bag will probably work for you on a 25-degree night.
Goose or No Goose?
The most important component of any sleeping bag is its insulating material. Modern sleeping bags offer two choices: goose down or synthetic. While both materials have advantages and disadvantages, down bags are considered superior because of their phenomenal warmth-to-weight and warmth-to-bulk ratios. While providing great insulation, down is extremely compressible and light. There's a reason why geese can fly and stay warm through the winter! Down also boasts great long-term durability and will typically retain its insulating properties after years of use.
All of that said, there are many high-quality synthetic bags on the market and synthetic materials are getting better all the time. While a synthetic bag will weigh somewhat more than a down bag at an equivalent temperature rating, synthetic bags perform better when wet. (Yes, the Achilles heel of down is that it loses all insulating properties when wet.) If your trips take you to wet climates, you may want to consider a synthetic bag for this reason alone. Keep in mind, too, that many people are allergic to down--synthetic bags are non-allergenic. Finally, down is considerably more expensive than synthetic, which might tip the balance for adventurers on a budget.
Bags for All Shapes
Sleeping bags come in two basic shapes that reflect their intended use. Mummy-shaped bags offer the best warmth because they conform to the body's contours. This minimizes the amount of body heat the body must put out to maintain a constant temperature. Many mummy bags are offered in women-specific shapes and sizes, as well. Rectangular bags, while they do offer more room to toss and turn, are less thermally efficient because they contain more open air space. Also, they are typically heavier than mummy bags, and are generally not offered with down insulation, making them best suited for car camping or short backpacking trips.
Pad Yourself
No matter what kind of bag you choose, a sleeping pad is a required accessory. Not only do they provide much-needed comfort when sleeping on the ground, pads also offer crucial warmth for your backside, as the weight of your body compresses--and renders virtually useless--the sleeping bag insulation that lies beneath you.


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Eagles Nest Outfitters FastFly Raintarp Review

Eagles Nest Outfitters FastFly RaintarpThis is my second rainfly purchase from ENO. The stitching and seems hold up well, the tightening system is ingenious, and will stand up to years of use. The only reason it's not five stars is because it's a little heavier than I'd hoped for.

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Product Description:
Rain is beautiful. It's being wet that really sucks. Imagine the bliss of resting in a hammock during a spring rain. Frogs singing, droplets splashing on the leaves, the fresh smell of a forest washed clean: all while you stay completely dry. Welcome to heaven. The FastFly's perfectly contoured drip lines will cover you and your gear, and its four-point connection system is a snap to setup. With enough room to cook while sitting in your hammock, you have all your essentials covered. When the rain quits, just stuff it and get back on the trail. ENO offers the outdoor enthusiast a versatile, high-quality option for forging through rough weather. This product complements all ENO hammocks and is displayed with lightweight, rip-stop tarps and shelters. The FastFly can be used with other brands of hammocks as well as independently, to shade and protect your buddies, gear, clothes, or dog.

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Stratosphere Bivvi Shelter, Olive Review

Stratosphere Bivvi Shelter, OliveThis bivy will be good enough for backcountry recon or backpacking.It is light, but could be lighter.It seems as thought the zippers are sturdy, a plus, but also a place they could have lightened.The stakes that came with mine are heavy alloy.I recommend replacing them with lighter aluminum or opt not to use them.You could use this bivy with no stakes and no poles to save weight.The best option seems to be using one pole and one stake (hopefully lighter than stock) on the head end of the bivy.

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Product Description:
The Stratosphere Bivvi Shelter is waterproof. The fabric top is 40D Nylon Ripstop, waterproof and moisture permeable. The fabric bottom is 70D Nylon Tafeta with PU Coating. Poles are aluminum with screw lock tips. Dimensions:90 x 37 x 42 in. Pack Size: 14 x 4 x 6 in. Weight:46 onz, including Poles, Pegs and Compression Sack. Main Features Include: Seams are waterproof and taped. Ultra compact 1 person shelter. Stands up to severe weather. Make sure you stay dry. Small pack size.

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Texsport Olympia Sleeping Bag Review

Texsport Olympia Sleeping BagFor the price I must say this sleeping bag was nice and warm during the cold nights about 35F if I remember correctly.

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Product Description:
Machine washable Comfort rating of 10? F Stuff sack

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Black Diamond Gizmo Headlamp Review

Black Diamond Gizmo HeadlampThis is a fantastic headlamp. Besides this headlamp, I also own the Black Diamond Zenix IQ.However, I find myself using the Gizmo 99% of the time however. The reasons I prefer the Gizmo are as follows:
- the Gizmo weighs significantly less than the Zenix IQ
- unlike the Zenix IQ, the Gizmo does *not* have a battery pack in the back of the strap....making the Gizmo perfect for use as a reading lamp while laying in bed.
- the Gizmo is more compact (and lighter), making it easier to carry in a pocket and/or to carry with you in a backpack for "just in case I need a headlamp" situations.

Although I would still recommend the Zenix IQ as a great headlamp for long hikes (provides more output light when you really need to see distances for unknown terrain), I find that I use my Gizmo 99% of the time because in its low-output mode it is the perfect reading lamp and in its high-output mode it provides plenty of light for walking around a campsite, etc.

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Product Description:
Lightweight and compact, ready for anything, anywhere

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NALGENE Tritan 1-Quart Wide Mouth BPA-Free Water Bottle Review

NALGENE Tritan 1-Quart Wide Mouth BPA-Free Water BottleI own and regularly use 3 of these water bottles and I have to say they are the best water bottles I've ever owned. First off I don't pretend to understand all of the science behind the BPA debate, but I always think that if you can err on the side of caution, why not do it, and in this case Nalgene has made it really easy. These bottles are very solid. I use them to take water or gatorade with me when I golf and they get smacked around a bit riding in the side compartment of my golf bag (I play a lot of walking courses) and I've had no problems with them cracking or even getting scratched. The lids screw on easily and tightly and I've never had one of these bottles leak.

Another great thing about them is that they have virtually no smell. They don't have any sort of plastic aftertaste and they won't make water taste nasty, even if it gets heated up by the sun.

I also like the thick plastic band that connects the lid to the bottle. It has a dual purpose: preventing the loss of the lid (obvious) and doubling as a loop which you can connect the bottle to a lanyard or rope for carrying it. This is handy with certain backpacks.

With a variety of great colors to choose from, there is little not to like about these water bottles. I highly recommend them.

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Product Description:
Stay hydrated with Nalgene's most popular bottle: the 1-Quart Wide Mouth. Using Tritan technologies to keep your water BPA-free and refreshing, Nalgene is committed to providing bottles for that keep water clean and healthy. And it's easy to see why the Wide Mouth is their most popular: it's easy to wash, adaptable with most water purifiers and filters, and a cinch to open and close. The loop-top makes it portable and ensures against loss. It's even got printed measuring lines to help you stay on top of your hydration.

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Travel Kit by Nalgene Review

Travel Kit by NalgeneI have the large kit along with one other Nalgene travel bottle and they worked perfectly in my Eagle Creek toiletry kit. I filled them with shampoo, conditioner, combo body wash/shave gel, and some of the smaller bottles I used for hair product like gel, cream, etc. The quality is great and I have had NO problems with leakage or anything. They also hold quite a bit. I used these for a 5 week trip and then later a 2 week trip. With careful use, I didn't need anymore shampoo/conditioner than was in the bottles.

The only thing you should know is that several of the bottles are 4 oz. So they are not good for taking in a carry-on bag. However they are the best choice for packing them in your suitcase, using the smaller bottles in your carry-on, or using them as pill bottles. This includes several different types of tops, including screw-on ones and flip-top/squeeze ones, and you can switch many of the tops.

EDIT: Here is the listing of sizes from the Nalgene website.
- Bottle w/Red cap is 1 ounce
- Square bottle w/Blue cap is 2 ounces (same size as the bottle w/white cap)
- Rectangular bottle w/Green cap is 4 ounces
- The next two bottles are 4 ounces, perfect for shampoo and conditioner
- The white dispensing caps will fit on all the bottles in the kit (except for the 1/2 ounce)
- The square bottle is 2 ounces, its the same as the bottle w/blue cap
- The bigger jar is 2 ounces
- The last jar is 1 ounce

I carried these to Russia and back, on a backpacking trip, and on another 2 week trip. STILL no leakages and this is still the perfect combo with my Eagle Creek kit!

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Product Description:
410031 Features: The small assortment includes 6 bottles and the medium includes 8 bottles and 2 dispenser caps Specifications:

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Potable Aqua Purification Iodine Tablets Review

Potable Aqua Purification Iodine TabletsThe 5 most common ways backpackers/campers purify water are
1. Boil it.Obviously slow and cumbersome.If doing strenuous backpacking/canoeing each person will need to boil a big pot of water every night.
2. Natural sunlight - letting water sit in the sun for 6 hours works (need cloudless day, correct kind of clear plastic container). The World Health Organization published a study on this, but Amazon won't let me link to it.
3. Water pump - I have used MSR HyperFlow Microfilter, though there are cheaper options if you can accept it being slightly larger.In my opinion this is the best method.
4. Household chlorine bleach - the EPA and WHO give instructions on doing this. The EPA says this may not kill Cryptosporidium. I've never tried.
5. Iodine tablets -

Positives:
-Tablets are small/light for backpackers
-Only takes 30 minutes to have water ready
-No work required

Negatives:
-EPA says it is not 100% affective against Giardia and Cryptosporidium, especially if the water is cold while being treated.
-The taste is slightly bad ('metallic' is my best description).

I think a good attitude towards these tablets is "emergency use" (which is labeled on the side of the bottle, not visible in the Amazon image). No good backpacker doesn't have these, but I suggest a water pump as the planned primary method. Note: there are also iodine "neutralizer" tablets that are supposed to remove the bad taste (you drop them in after the 30 minutes is up and wait another 30 minutes).In my opinion they barely change the taste and are not worth it.

I'm only giving 4 stars since the EPA says it is not 100% effective against Giardia and Cryptosporidium.I'd give 5 stars if the product was named something such as "EMERGENCY AQUA" vs. "POTABLE AQUA".

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Product Description:
Used worldwide by campers, hikers, militaries, emergency organizations, and anyone else who needs to drink water of questionable quality, these Portable Aqua iodine tablets will disinfect contaminated drinking water in a pinch. The tablets--which are intended for short-term or limited emergency use only--make most water bacteriologically suitable for drinking, proving effective against Giardia lamblia when used as directed. Each Potable Aqua tablet contains 20 mg of Tetraglycine Hydroperiodide (TGHP), which liberates 8 mg of titratable iodine when released into water. Within 30 minutes, the iodine will have penetrated the cell walls of the microorganisms, rendering them inactive and making the water safe to drink. Potable Aqua tablets also neutralize the iodine aftertaste and color, helping your drinking water taste better.
About Potable Aqua
Potable Aqua iodine water disinfection tablets were developed by Harvard University in conjunction with the U.S. Army in the 1940s, and have been used by the military for emergency drinking water disinfection for more than 50 years. Pharmacal currently supplies the U.S. Military with Potable Aqua for its emergency drinking water needs. Potable Aqua is also widely used by campers, backpackers, and various other militaries around the world. With the addition of the Potable Aqua Traveler and Chlorine Dioxide Water Purification Tablets, Potable Aqua continues to meet the ever-changing needs of today's outdoor enthusiast.


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Katadyn Mini Ceramic Water Microfilter Review

Katadyn Mini Ceramic Water MicrofilterThis mini-Katadyn filter is perfect for what it claims to do.It is very small, light and almost completely self-contained (the hose and filter gauge fit inside the unit, but not the cleaning pad).The down side is that it is very slow and takes quite a bit of pumping to produce filtered water.I like the fact that you can field clean this filter and use it for up to 2,000 Gallons of water!If you are in a hurry or filtering water for a group larger than 2, then you probably don't want this filter, but if you're alone and you don't mind exerting a little effort than this filter is just right.

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Product Description:
The smallest and lightest water filter available!Fits in coat pocket or waist pack.Exclusive silver impregnated ceramic prohibits bacterial growth and lasts up to 2000 gallons. Cleanable 0.2 micron element removes bacteria and cysts such as Giardia and Cryptosporidium. 30" input hose, cleaning brush, measuring gauge all contained within the body of the filter.Ideal for travel and day hiking.Wt. 8oz., Ht. 7".Includes prefilter, bottle clip, cleaning pad and zippered carry case.

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USMC Fighting Knife, Brown Leather Sheath, 7 in., Serrated Review

USMC Fighting Knife, Brown Leather Sheath, 7 in., SerratedThe USMC ka bar is really nice, it is one of my favorite fixed blade knives out there.Ka Bar is a great manufacturer, and the quality of most of their knives is great.The USMC fighting knife, is awesome, the blade quality is great, and I love the cylyndrical hand grip.However If you plan on going hunting with this knife don't as the blade with is far to large to skin an animal with.Overall its a fantastic fixed blade.

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Product Description:
ATTRIBUTESBlade Detail:ComboEdgeBlade Length (inches):7.00Blade Material:Carbon Steel BlackCarry System:Leather Sheath USMCHandle Material:Leather DisksOverall Length (inches):11.88

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SnugPak SP92720 Softie Chrysalis Kilo Sleeping Bag Blue RH Full Zip Review

SnugPak SP92720 Softie Chrysalis Kilo Sleeping Bag Blue RH Full ZipThis is a good pack with good packaging.Don't expect a huge amount of warmth, but that's to be expected from any small bag.I recommend this bag for late spring/summer/early fall camping or sleeping inside an unheated hard-shelter.

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Product Description:
Lightweight, Chrysalis baffle system, Small pack size, Variable length and unique rolling system. Chisel foot. Comfort at 32 degrees, low at 23 degrees.

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Eddie Bauer® Polyester Fill Mummy Sleeping Bag Review

Eddie Bauer® Polyester Fill Mummy Sleeping BagI purchased this bag from Target a few months ago.It's a great cold-weather bag, I've used it in temps down to 20F and have been very toasty in this thing.The removable top layer gives you nice flexibility, and can be used to augment your sleeping pad on warmer nights or as a pillow.My only issues are that it's a little too heavy for backpacking (but what do you expect from a $50 bag?), and it doesn't come with a compression sack.

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Softie Elite 5 Civilian Blue Chrysalis Expedition Right Zip Review

Softie Elite 5 Civilian Blue Chrysalis Expedition Right ZipThis bag is amazing.I searched long and hard for the best synthetic sleeping bag and this is it.I am a huge guy, 6'1 300lbs and though it is a little "snug" for me it keeps me VERY warm on the coldest nights.Many times I unzip the bag so as to not over-heat.In warmer temps I keep it unziped and it works great.SnugPak Softie Elite 5 is what the UK special forces use in cold weather and I can see why.It has great loft and is impregnated with thermo-reflective material to keep your body warmth in and will protect you more from losing heat into the ground.Very easy to wash and dry and is made of great quality materials.It does have a unique baffle system (more than one zipper) to regulate how warm you want to be.If you are looking for a synthetic sleeping bag that will keep you as warm (or even warmer!) than most down bags, this is what you want.I am ordering a second one for my little boy. :)

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Product Description:
The SOFTIE ELITE range of sleeping bags have been designed for movement and accomadation, with the option of using the unique baffle system, or built in expanda panel, to allow more space when required. When not required the stretchy portion zips away to make a jumbo zip baffle. All SOFTIE ELITE sleeping bags are supplied with a stuff compression sack that allows addition of a SNUGPAK sleeping bag liner or bivvi.Temp. -4'F / Weight 85 oz. Pack size : 10"" x 5.5"" 86"" (long) x 65"" (chest)

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Sierra Designs Snow and Sand Stake Review

Sierra Designs Snow and Sand StakeThe only thing I can add to the other reviews is that there are four individual "stakes" or bags in one pack.This did not seem clear in the amazon description.They work well and look like they will last.

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Product Description:
The Snow and Sand Stake allows the tent to be pitched in the snow or sand where traditional stakes don't work. Fill these handy lightweight but durable sacks with snow, sand or rocks and know that your tent will stay put.

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Slumberjack Talon 40-Degree Rectangular Sleeping Bag Review

Slumberjack Talon 40-Degree Rectangular Sleeping BagI use this bag all the time...it's compact, light, and warm!I used it just last weekend, the weather was in the low 40's and I was nice and comfy!

Even if you have a little more $$$ to spend, I still recommend this bag.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Slumberjack Talon 40-Degree Rectangular Sleeping Bag

Product Description:
Perfect for all expeditioners who want to travel light--from kayakers and fast packers to motor and pedal cyclists--the ultralight Talon sleeping bag has a carry weight of under 2.75 pounds. This rectangular, two-season bag is temperature rated to 40 degrees Fahrenheit, and it has a single layer of insulation that is sewn through from the outer to the liner. The half-length insulated draft tube keeps cold air from penetrating through the anti-snag zipper. It also provides easy-grab pull tabs and a stuff sack.
The regular bag has a maximum user height of 5 feet, 11 inches; the long and magnum bags have a maximum height of 6 feet, 5 inches. It's filled with Thermolite Extreme insulation, which features a blend of three synthetic fibers (thin threads, hollow spiral fibers, and thermally bonded fibers) to optimize both loft and compressibility. It provides maximum warmth and lightweight comfort, and maintains much of its insulation value even when wet.
Why a Rectangular Bag?
Rectangular shaped bags offer the greatest flexibility and interior room. Once unzipped, they can be used as comforters, blankets, and for other outdoor or indoor uses. You can even zip two together for even more room.
Specifications--Regular:

    Size: 32 by 80 inches
    Carry size: 7.5 by 12 inches
    Fill weight: 1 pound, 2 ounces
    Carry weight: 2 pounds, 9 ounces
    Shell: Polyester Diamond Ripstop
    Liner: Polyester Taffeta

Specifications--Long:

    Size: 34 by 84 inches
    Carry size: 7.5 by 12 inches
    Fill weight: 1 pound, 10 ounces
    Carry weight: 2 pounds, 11 ounces
    Shell: Polyester Diamond Ripstop
    Liner: Polyester Taffeta

About Slumberjack
Slumberjack has been known as the outdoor sleep expert or for more than 50 years. They have built this reputation for being the best by building the finest quality sleeping systems in the world, while addressing the needs of virtually all market segments from backpacking and trekking to family camping and hunting and fishing. With over five decades of experience in the industry, Slumberjack has taught everyone that "roughing it" doesn't have to mean being uncomfortable. That's why their selection of sleeping bags, self-inflating mats, self-inflating chairs, camp furniture, bivy shelters, and accessories offers a choice for every season and a fit for nearly every size and shape.
Amazon.com Sleeping Bag Guide
Sleep Well: Finding the Right Sleeping Bag
Sleeping bag technology has come a long way from the days of cowboy bedrolls. These days, there are a number of high-tech materials and designs available to keep you warm during the coldest outings. Here's a short list of things to keep in mind when you're shopping for a bag:
Buy for Cold
It's a safe bet that on at least one of your adventures, the nighttime temperature will drop unexpectedly. That's why it's smart to buy a bag that's rated for the lowest possible temperature you expect to face on your camping and backpacking trips. For summer trips, a bag rated at +35 degrees or higher will likely do the trick. If you like to camp in higher elevations in the summer, or if spring and fall outings are in your future, consider bags rated from +10 to +35. Winter adventurers should look for bags in the -10 to +10 range, while those on serious winter alpine climbs and expeditions will want a bag rated lower than -10.
Keep in mind that sleeping bag manufacturers' temperature ratings only estimate the minimum temperature at which the bag will provide warmth. Take these numbers with a grain of salt, as different folks generate different amounts of heat when they sleep. If you're the type who likes to pile on the covers even on warmer nights, go for a bag that's rated ten degrees colder. The opposite is true for "warm" sleepers--a 35-degree bag will probably work for you on a 25-degree night.
Goose or No Goose?
The most important component of any sleeping bag is its insulating material. Modern sleeping bags offer two choices: goose down or synthetic. While both materials have advantages and disadvantages, down bags are considered superior because of their phenomenal warmth-to-weight and warmth-to-bulk ratios. While providing great insulation, down is extremely compressible and light. There's a reason why geese can fly and stay warm through the winter! Down also boasts great long-term durability and will typically retain its insulating properties after years of use.
All of that said, there are many high-quality synthetic bags on the market and synthetic materials are getting better all the time. While a synthetic bag will weigh somewhat more than a down bag at an equivalent temperature rating, synthetic bags perform better when wet. (Yes, the Achilles heel of down is that it loses all insulating properties when wet.) If your trips take you to wet climates, you may want to consider a synthetic bag for this reason alone. Keep in mind, too, that many people are allergic to down--synthetic bags are non-allergenic. Finally, down is considerably more expensive than synthetic, which might tip the balance for adventurers on a budget.
Bags for All Shapes
Sleeping bags come in two basic shapes that reflect their intended use. Mummy-shaped bags offer the best warmth because they conform to the body's contours. This minimizes the amount of body heat the body must put out to maintain a constant temperature. Many mummy bags are offered in women-specific shapes and sizes, as well. Rectangular bags, while they do offer more room to toss and turn, are less thermally efficient because they contain more open air space. Also, they are typically heavier than mummy bags, and are generally not offered with down insulation, making them best suited for car camping or short backpacking trips.
Pad Yourself
No matter what kind of bag you choose, a sleeping pad is a required accessory. Not only do they provide much-needed comfort when sleeping on the ground, pads also offer crucial warmth for your backside, as the weight of your body compresses--and renders virtually useless--the sleeping bag insulation that lies beneath you.


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Princeton Tec, Tec-40 Review

Princeton Tec, Tec-40When I received the Princeton Tec 40, I at first thought it was a good buy -- substantial amount of light and solid construction. Now I realize I cannot count on it and I'm throwing it out because I need a reliable flashlight for camping and work. When I try to turn it on it invariably fails to light, even though the batteries and bulb are OK. Something in the design makes the internal connections unreliable, so I have to take the flashlight apart and put it back together again, after which it lights, until I turn it off and try to light it the next time.

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Product Description:
This compact halogen unit provides the highest power-to-weight ratio of any light in its class. The non-slip rubber grip ensures you'll be able to securely hold the light, even if you're diving at 100 meters. The twist-activated switch prevents accidental turn-on.

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Wenzel Tundra Oversize Hollow Core -10-Degree Sleeping Bag with Hood Review

Wenzel Tundra Oversize Hollow Core -10-Degree Sleeping Bag with HoodAbout two years ago, I bought a Wenzel +25 degree oversize bag and fell in love with it the first night because of the comfort and roominess inside.I have been wanting a mate to it that could go to lower temperatures in the early spring and fall and decided to try this bag.

This bag has quite a bit more padding in it than my older bag and is like climbing intoa fluffy cloud that wraps around you and I have slept in 30 degree temps in complete comfort. This is one of the most comfortable bags I have ever slept in.

The zipper is double ended so you can unzip the bottom to let the feet breathe in warmer weather and still have the side zipped up. There is a velcro strap that goes above the zipper that holds the two halves of the bag together so that if you do a lot of turning in the night like I do, the zipper won't come unzipped.Very nice feature that I wish was on my other bag. There is also a fairly large padded strip behind the zipper that does a good job of keeping the cold from coming in through the zipper.

The large hood has a drawstring on it so that you can close it in around your face similar to a mummy bag.

One of the big things for me is the size of the bag.I am 6'3" tall and 210 lbs and I really love the room this bag has to offer both in length and width. I have plenty of room for my feet and I can turn over with ease.

The outside cover is a cotton like material that grips the flocked top of my air mattress and prevents the bag from sliding off in the middle of the night even with a lot of tossing and turning. This was a real problem for me with another bag I had that had a nylon covering.

All in all after having a number of trips with this bag this summer in a wide range of temps I haven't found any cons to this bag other than not wanting to get out of it in the morning.

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Product Description:
A great choice for three-season hunting trips and car camping excursions, the roomy Wenzel Grande is an affordable rectangular sleeping bag that's temperature rated to 5 degrees Fahrenheit. It's filled with 6 pounds of hollow core polyester fiber fill, and it features a polyester/cotton cover and a soft, warm 100 percent cotton flannel inner liner with classic plaid pattern. The quilt-through construction helps reduce the bunching of fill to eliminate cold spots. Other features include an extra-large self-repairing zipper, a zip-up hood, personal storage pocket at the foot, and three integrated compression straps.
Specifications:

    Shell material: Polyester/cotton
    Liner material: 100 percent cotton flannel
    Size: 90 by 38 inches
    Fill weight: 6 pounds
    Zipper side: Right

Amazon.com Sleeping Bag Guide
Sleep Well: Finding the Right Sleeping Bag
Sleeping bag technology has come a long way from the days of cowboy bedrolls. These days, there are a number of high-tech materials and designs available to keep you warm during the coldest outings. Here's a short list of things to keep in mind when you're shopping for a bag:
Buy for Cold
It's a safe bet that on at least one of your adventures, the nighttime temperature will drop unexpectedly. That's why it's smart to buy a bag that's rated for the lowest possible temperature you expect to face on your camping and backpacking trips. For summer trips, a bag rated at +35 degrees or higher will likely do the trick. If you like to camp in higher elevations in the summer, or if spring and fall outings are in your future, consider bags rated from +10 to +35. Winter adventurers should look for bags in the -10 to +10 range, while those on serious winter alpine climbs and expeditions will want a bag rated lower than -10.
Keep in mind that sleeping bag manufacturers' temperature ratings only estimate the minimum temperature at which the bag will provide warmth. Take these numbers with a grain of salt, as different folks generate different amounts of heat when they sleep. If you're the type who likes to pile on the covers even on warmer nights, go for a bag that's rated ten degrees colder. The opposite is true for "warm" sleepers--a 35-degree bag will probably work for you on a 25-degree night.
Goose or No Goose?
The most important component of any sleeping bag is its insulating material. Modern sleeping bags offer two choices: goose down or synthetic. While both materials have advantages and disadvantages, down bags are considered superior because of their phenomenal warmth-to-weight and warmth-to-bulk ratios. While providing great insulation, down is extremely compressible and light. There's a reason why geese can fly and stay warm through the winter! Down also boasts great long-term durability and will typically retain its insulating properties after years of use.
All of that said, there are many high-quality synthetic bags on the market and synthetic materials are getting better all the time. While a synthetic bag will weigh somewhat more than a down bag at an equivalent temperature rating, synthetic bags perform better when wet. (Yes, the Achilles heel of down is that it loses all insulating properties when wet.) If your trips take you to wet climates, you may want to consider a synthetic bag for this reason alone. Keep in mind, too, that many people are allergic to down--synthetic bags are non-allergenic. Finally, down is considerably more expensive than synthetic, which might tip the balance for adventurers on a budget.
Bags for All Shapes
Sleeping bags come in two basic shapes that reflect their intended use. Mummy-shaped bags offer the best warmth because they conform to the body's contours. This minimizes the amount of body heat the body must put out to maintain a constant temperature. Many mummy bags are offered in women-specific shapes and sizes, as well. Rectangular bags, while they do offer more room to toss and turn, are less thermally efficient because they contain more open air space. Also, they are typically heavier than mummy bags, and are generally not offered with down insulation, making them best suited for car camping or short backpacking trips.
Pad Yourself
No matter what kind of bag you choose, a sleeping pad is a required accessory. Not only do they provide much-needed comfort when sleeping on the ground, pads also offer crucial warmth for your backside, as the weight of your body compresses--and renders virtually useless--the sleeping bag insulation that lies beneath you.


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Nalgene Hydration Accessories Review

Nalgene Hydration AccessoriesThis was an OEM replacement for my nalgene bladder and I'm extremely happy with it. I received the one I wanted (even though the picture shows a couple different ones)and yes, it came with an extra magnet. Now I don't have to switch everything between big pack and day pack. I really like the shut-off feature and the magnetic mount. Usually when I'm riding (or hiking,) I just spit out the bite-valve when I'm done drinking and it finds it's own way back to its holder, this is really convenient while riding on the trail.

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Product Description:
Nalgene Nalgene Hydration Accessories By Nalgene

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Texsport Air Bed with Built-in Pump Review

Texsport Air Bed with Built-in PumpI bought this because it was the lowest priced queen size with battery pump.Here's what I learned:
1.Use only the freshest batteries.Older batteries won't work.The pump will pump but not enough pressure to actually fill the mattress.
2.Inflate only through the built in port.Do not inflate through the side valve.In fact, never open that valve!After several opening and closing, the side valve leaked on me and in an hour or two the mattress completely deflated.
3. Do notuse the side valve to infalte or deflate.See #2.
4. Be very careful getting onto the mattress.Do not step on it, put pressure close to the edge, especially around the built in port area.
5. It gets cold on this mattress.Sleep on a blanket a sleeping bag.
6. Buy only from places with good return policy.I returned my first one to Amazon after it leaked.
7. Study carefully the way it is folded in the box if you ever want to put it back in.
8.If you have the money, spend more and get more with another mattress.

hope this helps,

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Product Description:
Featuring a built-in battery-operated pump, this twin air bed has a soft, navy-blue velour top surface and is made of extra-heavy PVC for durability. The pump uses 4 D batteries (not included), and the bed has an easy-flow valve system. The pump can be removed from the bed and used independently. Coil-beam construction ensures the bed is comfortable. Designed for home or camping.

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