tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-81065567570972328152024-02-06T20:40:21.623-08:00Iron, Wood and StoneJPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09648020512804492015noreply@blogger.comBlogger23125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8106556757097232815.post-73862653956946174812011-01-18T20:27:00.000-08:002011-01-18T20:27:17.480-08:00KNIFE-MAKING TUTORIAL<div style="text-align: justify;">This is hands-down the best tutorial I have come across on this subject. Greenpete does an outstanding job of illustrating the entire knife-making process, and also throws in some handy tricks of his own. Making my own bushcraft knife is on my to-do list, and I hope to delve into the project when spring comes around. Thank you Greenpete for providing such a useful video to assist those of us with this interest. (And for free, no less!)</div><br />
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~JPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09648020512804492015noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8106556757097232815.post-22041315659119674102011-01-14T10:35:00.000-08:002011-01-14T10:35:23.768-08:00CARDINALS REDUXI managed to capture some improved photographs of the cardinals, as well as a blue jay. <div>(Click to enlarge.)<br />
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</div></div></div></div>JPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09648020512804492015noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8106556757097232815.post-57122164085638747782011-01-13T03:00:00.000-08:002011-01-13T03:00:02.644-08:00LOG SPLITTING WITH A SMALL AXEThis very informative video teaches an effective wedging method for managing unwieldy logs. I've used similar techniques with a hatchet to split fire logs, though admittedly I've yet to attempt anything quite so big. <br />
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~JPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09648020512804492015noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8106556757097232815.post-3020004852989038612011-01-12T08:30:00.000-08:002011-01-12T18:07:23.532-08:00CARDINALS<div style="text-align: justify;">Winter is an excellent time to observe and photograph cardinals. Their coloring stands in beautiful contrast to the often drab background of skeletal trees and snow. The male cardinal glows in hues of scarlet and pink, while the female shows off her ruddy browns and blazing orange. They seem to frighten easily, so I had to photograph them through the window. Not the best image quality, but I still like the way they turned out.</div><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">~</div>JPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09648020512804492015noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8106556757097232815.post-16205318511730744142011-01-10T19:37:00.000-08:002011-01-10T20:51:00.550-08:00GUN REVIEW: OLYMPIC ARMS AR-15, "PLINKER PLUS"<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://jsgunparts.com/store/images/full-pp.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="120" src="http://jsgunparts.com/store/images/full-pp.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Target shooting is a favorite pastime of mine, and I have the fortunate opportunity to shoot a wide variety of firearms, many of which I personally own. The last weapon I purchased was one I'd been eager to get for some time: the venerable AR-15 semiautomatic rifle chambered in 5.56 (.223). As a full-time college student, my funds are extremely limited, so I shopped around for a compromise between low cost and quality. After going through with my customary obsessive reading of product reviews, I decided to purchase the "Plinker Plus" standard model carbine from Olympic Arms.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><u>FORM:</u> This firearm is nearly identical in appearance to the classic M-16 military rifle. Since it is a carbine, the barrel length is a shorter 16 inches, though with the classic style buttstock the firearm still feels like a standard rifle in the hands. I've fired other ARs with various setups, like the M-4 style multi-position stock, but I purposely opted for the classic form. I am a rifle man, and I wanted the "bare bones" option with A1 iron sights and limited options for adjustment. In terms of aesthetics and ergonomics, this rifle was exactly as I expected: simple, comfortable, and proven.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><u>CRAFTSMANSHIP:</u> As far as the basic construction goes, nothing too surprising. The rifle arrived in a decent plastic case with interior padding. It came with a nylon sling and a basic aluminum 30-round magazine. The Plinker Plus is made from 7075 T6 forged aircraft aluminum (same as the military M-16), with anodized receivers and parkerized steel. The barrel is Olympic Arms' 4140 chromemoly steel with "long-life" bore and a permanently attached A2-style flash suppressor. The twist is a standard 1x9. The non-metal parts consist of a durable fiberglass material; the handguard performs well in allowing the barrel to vent and does not itself seem to retain much heat. I like that the A2-style stock has a trapdoor, allowing for a decent amount of storage inside (see photo 4 below).</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>There was one major manufacturing problem with my rifle upon arrival, that was not evident in the initial inspection and function check</b>. When I first test-fired the rifle, it would successfully discharge one round, but fail to eject the casing. This caused a jam as the next round attempted to chamber and consequently collided with the lodged empty shell. After stripping the gun and closely examining the bolt, I noticed that the extractor pin seemed to jut out from the bolt slightly and seemed to have no compression leeway. After further disassembly, I discovered the problem. As you can see in photos 2 and 3 below, the pin was not milled/chamfered properly. This is an unacceptable failure which could have been easily prevented. Perhaps more worrisome, this proves that Olympic Arms never test-fired this weapon before they shipped it. Had they fired even one test round, the stuck shell would have indicated the operational failure. I attempted to discuss the problem with the company, but after being given the phone transfer runaround and leaving multiple polite voicemails, I never heard back from them. It's bad enough to ship a firearm prone to potential catastrophic failure, but then to not even address the valid concern? Well, that's just poor business.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
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</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><u>PERFORMANCE:</u><br />
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</u></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><i>Reliability - </i>Since carefully performing my own gunsmith work on the extractor pin with a bench grinder, the function of my Plinker Plus has been outstanding. I've experienced no further failures of any kind. Cleanup is easy, due to the straightforwardness of stripping the weapon (a boon that I've found comes with most military-developed weapon styles). Everything on the rifle appears to perform as it should, though I caution the reader to remember that this firearm is still like new, and due to cost I am stingy with ammo. Thus, only about 200 rounds have gone through my rifle, so I'll likely follow up with subsequent reviews after a thorough break-in.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><i><br />
</i></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><i>Accuracy - </i>Olympic Arms is renowned for having very accurate barrels. I'm extremely happy with the accuracy of my Plinker Plus, and I have no problem holding tight groups at 100 yards with the iron sights (I'd say typically around 3 inches). As I lack any authoritative claim on expert marksmanship, I'll reserve further judgment.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><i><br />
</i></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><i>Ammo - </i>So far I've fired this gun with several different types of ammunition, including Wolf, Brown Bear, PMC brass, PMC X-Tac, Remington UMC and Federal. All have performed flawlessly. I've shot a few brief "rapid shots" (emptying a magazine in quick succession) without any difficulty, but generally I fire this rifle like I would any other, with carefully considered, slow single shots. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><i><br />
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</i></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><u>PROS:</u></div><div style="text-align: justify;">- Low Cost </div><div style="text-align: justify;">- Similar materials to more expensive AR-15 models</div><div style="text-align: justify;">- Overall solid construction</div><div style="text-align: justify;">- Accurate</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><u>CONS:</u></div><div style="text-align: justify;">- Quality control issues</div><div style="text-align: justify;">- Poor customer service from manufacturer</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><u>BOTTOM LINE:</u></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Apart from the unacceptable initial extractor pin problem, this is a fine rifle. It is fairly light, has low recoil, cycles cleanly, has not yet had any ammunition issues, and is easy to break down and clean. Though I am personally very fond of my AR-15, I will not currently recommend it to others without caveat. Olympic Arms has an obvious need for improvement with regard to their quality control on manufactured parts and customer service. If they can improve those two areas, I think they'd have the best entry-level AR-15 rifle on the market.<br />
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<u>GRADE:</u><br />
<b>86/100 - B</b><br />
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</div><div style="text-align: justify;">I want to make special mention of <a href="http://jsgunparts.com/store/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=4&products_id=356">J & S Gun Parts</a>, which is where I purchased my Plinker Plus for the incredibly reasonable price of $580.00. I've since bought two Magpul magazines from this company (to be reviewed in the future). Their prices and service have been consistently outstanding, and I highly recommend them! </div><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">~</div>JPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09648020512804492015noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8106556757097232815.post-10212212698839783102011-01-09T17:20:00.000-08:002011-01-09T17:21:53.556-08:00NATURE IS FOR THE BIRDS!<div style="text-align: justify;">My girlfriend and I woke up early today to hand-feed some chickadees. Those ravenous little fellas were definitely interested, as were a few tufted titmice. We couldn't have asked for a nicer day; the temperature was near 20 and the skies blue as far as the eye could see--gorgeous! I was also fortunate enough to get some nice pictures of a gray fox. Winter is certainly a wonderful time for wildlife enthusiasts.</div><div style="text-align: justify;">(Click to enlarge.)</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibh_Wya7uPsz9W0jce5SLsKvZ12Tv6ILZxu4esqf4k9ttPxlU3SUqf2qC6G3Q4dtoPL4Rfck-esI8IbOLvffve_FWu08aCEjr6MiqNUZtDDreS3Pi4TOKfkVuDnrrdlqcQLmcMAjWOAiM/s1600/greyfox1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibh_Wya7uPsz9W0jce5SLsKvZ12Tv6ILZxu4esqf4k9ttPxlU3SUqf2qC6G3Q4dtoPL4Rfck-esI8IbOLvffve_FWu08aCEjr6MiqNUZtDDreS3Pi4TOKfkVuDnrrdlqcQLmcMAjWOAiM/s400/greyfox1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">~</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div>JPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09648020512804492015noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8106556757097232815.post-86403671336129898822011-01-06T18:14:00.000-08:002011-01-06T18:14:27.238-08:00HAWKThis fellow has been a steady visitor for the last year. I believe it is a Cooper's or Red-Shouldered Hawk. Probably the former. (Click to enlarge.)<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">~</div>JPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09648020512804492015noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8106556757097232815.post-12645078843957301802011-01-04T21:01:00.000-08:002011-01-04T21:01:04.850-08:00OLD-TIMEY AXE RE-HANDLING"Back in <i>my</i> day, we told Home Depot to pound salt."<br />
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~JPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09648020512804492015noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8106556757097232815.post-62659266656561157722011-01-03T19:17:00.000-08:002011-01-03T19:22:26.331-08:00TINDER TESTS<div style="text-align: justify;">Today was an exceptionally pleasant winter day for Northeast Ohio, with clear sunny skies and a temperature in the twenties. We had a brief warm-up last week which melted most of the snow, and although I enjoy the frigid winter, I also took advantage of the eased travel and work which this milder weather provides. So, I decided to take the dog, my Schrade X-timer camp knife, and Swedish Firesteel on a journey to test out some natural tinders.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">For the first trial, I gathered some dead leaves that remained clinging to standing saplings, a few feet off of the ground. I mixed these with similar leaves from woody plants (weeds, essentially) and the fluffy "seeds" which abundantly fill out the top of the plant (like wheat). I took this assemblage, and ground it finely between my palms, forming a tinder pile over a pre-assembled base of wood, which elevated it above the damp ground. This pile was difficult to light, and it took a couple dozen sparkings with the ferrocium rod to achieve any lasting embers. Eventually it produced a flame, which took to kindling with ease.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">The second trial began with a base layer of dried grass blades, again ground through the palms. Once a decent "nest" effect was established, I sprinkled shavings of dried pine resin from a nearby tree on top. This mixture was much more difficult to light (I've never had much luck with grasses as tinder) and the most I was able to achieve were very small, fleeting embers.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">For the last trial, I used cattail fluff. I had first tried this method last winter in a snowstorm, and was really impressed with the results. About half of a cattail will provide a rather large tinder nest when fluffed. You want the bundle lofty, but just tight enough that it stills binds together. One spark with the Firesteel is all it takes to get a crackling ripple of flame traversing the entire pile. It burns very quickly, so it's a good idea to have other tinder or fine kindling mixed into the pile. Another thing I discovered today is that you can stir the cattail tinder with a stick as it blazes, and it will stay lit. The trick seems to be to maintain a certain amount of loft. The beauty is that the cattail only singes on the outermost portion, so you can fluff it out and relight it over and over again. This is by far my favorite of the natural tinder methods I've tried so far. The video below illustrates the use of cattail as a tinder.</div><br />
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<div style="text-align: justify;">I find that this sort of practice really comes in handy when you are camping or backpacking, and must genuinely start a fire for necessity's sake. It's certainly not a bad idea to get a solid foundation for these essential skills so you don't need to rely upon unnecessary experimentation when time and energy are at stake. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">~</div>JPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09648020512804492015noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8106556757097232815.post-7729614266860670422011-01-02T18:28:00.000-08:002011-01-02T18:29:24.014-08:00AUTUMNAL OHIOSome photography from autumn 2010, taken at various local metroparks.<br />
(click images for full-size.)<br />
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~JPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09648020512804492015noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8106556757097232815.post-36681527475769151522010-12-30T11:19:00.000-08:002011-01-02T20:55:13.445-08:00FIRE BY ICEThis is one of those ideas that is brilliant in its simplicity and utility. I had never considered using ice as a magnifying lens.<br />
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</div><div>~</div>JPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09648020512804492015noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8106556757097232815.post-82948398472311856422010-12-23T18:10:00.000-08:002011-01-02T18:33:05.231-08:00PRODUCT REVIEW: MOSKITO TRAVELLER<a href="http://media.scandinavianoutdoorstore.com/productimages/Amazonas_Mosquito_Traveller.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://media.scandinavianoutdoorstore.com/productimages/Amazonas_Mosquito_Traveller.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 200px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /></a><br />
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</u></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;">After reading many articles by seasoned backpackers, singing the praises of ultra-lightweight camping, I decided to purchase a hammock. I pored over various products and eventually decided on the Moskito Traveller by Byer of Maine. This hammock was light, cheap and best of all, came equipped with bug netting to keep those biting critters out. I was extremely excited about using a hammock/tarp setup, and performed a successful test run in the backyard. In August, I finally had the occasion to test the setup under actual primitive camping conditions. What follows is my resultant review.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><u>ERGONOMICS:</u></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">At a mere 11 ounces, the Moskito Traveller is certainly light. The parachute nylon feels thin, but relatively durable. It's surprisingly comfortable to lay in, if one can overcome the awkwardness of climbing in and laying diagonally ("Brazilian style"). The attached mosquito netting is suspended overhead by two points, and generally doesn't touch the sleeper or otherwise interfere when laying down. I imagine that this is about as comfortable as a lightweight hammock can be, due to limitations on size, weight and materials. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><u>FUNCTION:</u></div><div style="text-align: justify;">This is where the rubber meets the road, and when it comes to practical utility, I found the Moskito Traveller to be lacking. The ends are supported by a multi-cord system which seems inherently prone to tangles and irritation. With a little patience, it is fairly easy to untangle the twists and knots, but this still makes for an unnecessary hassle. The hammock doesn't include any straps for attaching to trees, but those are easy enough to come by. The Moskito Traveller was generally easy to get in and out of, but every now and then it would slip and jerk, making entry/exit a potential problem. The bag which contains the hammock is a fixed component, and doubles as a small bedside container when the hammock is set up. This is a useful feature, and also ensures that the bag is never lost.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">The biggest reason for my purchase of this particular hammock was for protection against biting insects, namely mosquitoes. The netting, while intact, did serve its purpose. The problem I found, however, was that the bugs would simply congregate on the underside of the hammock, where they could easily bite through the parachute nylon. That was a major annoyance, as I was continually devoured throughout the night. This could probably be rectified with some sort of sleeping pad or extra blanket, but then the user is adding weight which begins to defeat the purpose of ultra-lightweight camping gear. I'm also not sure how easily a sleeping pad could be incorporated--I had a difficult time maneuvering inside the hammock with just one light blanket.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><u>DURABILITY:</u></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">In this category the Moskito Traveller also suffers. The manufacturer's max capacity is rated at 250 lbs. That seems about right, though I wouldn't care to push it. The parachute nylon is exceedingly thin, and the support felt tenuous even at my weight of 165 lbs. Included is a length of shock cord which is used to hold the mosquito net elevated. It feels cheap, but serves its purpose. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">I mentioned above that the hammock is relatively stable, but sometimes "slips and jerks" when one is getting in. At one point in the night, I had left to heed the call of nature. When I was climbing back into the hammock (carefully, mind you), it shifted suddenly, pulling on the shockcord and ripping a four-inch hole in the fragile mosquito netting. Well, it was bad enough when the bugs were voraciously biting me through the nylon bottom; now they were swarming in through the hole. I'm a lightweight 5'11" who is exceedingly careful with his gear. This hammock couldn't make it through the first night. How long would it last with anyone heavier or clumsier? </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><u>PROS:</u></div><div style="text-align: justify;">- Extremely lightweight</div><div style="text-align: justify;">- Easy to pack, unpack</div><div style="text-align: justify;">- Self-contained bag</div><div style="text-align: justify;">- Low cost</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><u>CONS:</u></div><div style="text-align: justify;">- Will not, by itself, keep bugs away</div><div style="text-align: justify;">- Prone to tangles</div><div style="text-align: justify;">- Cheap materials/construction</div><div style="text-align: justify;">- Arguably too fragile for the trail</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><u>BOTTOM LINE:</u></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">This product does not serve its function satisfactorily. The price (generally around $40.00) is attractive, but if you plan on using it in buggy areas, be prepared for modifications or sleepless nights. If bugs are not a problem in your area, this hammock might be okay as an ultralight alternative to a tent. Regardless of price, I expect a product to perform to its stated purpose for a reasonable period of time. Any product that cannot withstand one night of modest, cautious use, is a product that I cannot endorse.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><u>GRADE:</u></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>69/100 - D+</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5556570022308352418" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqWx8hhCx-O5jv6XN41AN-AeYF6Om2uyqtE1dakzRchGLsokLrYCQiF26auZmpJe2jK6lwRUI5ZJURM-TkyxLtRXIoNhsvxcBwNIxJ_Z89CveXgwnO3G7hgVishulXHggAA-uI59FRqCE/s400/hammock_camp_test.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 300px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; margin-top: 0px; text-align: justify; width: 400px;" /></div><span class="Apple-style-span"></span><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span">(This photo depicts the first "test" setup in the backyard. Note that when the hammock was actually used, care was taken to level the supporting ropes and to allow the hammock to hang appropriately, per the manufacturer's guidelines.)</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span">~</span></div>JPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09648020512804492015noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8106556757097232815.post-56871644626243355262010-08-12T19:29:00.001-07:002010-12-14T17:37:29.409-08:00A TRIP TO THE WETLANDSTesting out my new Olympus Evolt E-510 SLR camera at the local beaver hangout, just before sunset. Unfortunately, the beavers did not appear to be home.<br /><br />Juvenile Teal Duck:<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYVZ_D9x3z3UQhYlRbdvrrmWp3X6dsXxawJgWt39OQqeFSwbfm1zApG4BaKgrF_0c2iSkVIdSgkK-H3PgKFFbM3gNwVzB_GE_Niw2BmxH_HdeeMlKGvbcuVs36DjWsyPPAoli43RJVFO0/s1600/teal_duck1.png"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 301px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYVZ_D9x3z3UQhYlRbdvrrmWp3X6dsXxawJgWt39OQqeFSwbfm1zApG4BaKgrF_0c2iSkVIdSgkK-H3PgKFFbM3gNwVzB_GE_Niw2BmxH_HdeeMlKGvbcuVs36DjWsyPPAoli43RJVFO0/s400/teal_duck1.png" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5506612686167590802" /></a><br />Great Blue Heron:<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnY2MbMm_gtUcNeoeJxszdXqip2DSsH8DYgo12Y64zzoOBeryUEyDn3QQwRl5DaphhEm3iGWXm0WI8_DoNi0uqSoUF6UMJLx8eF2_Oyz2jg_gGsgsQpqz1msY7fGO4iMb8EDF2zFywqi4/s1600/blue_heron1.png"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 277px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnY2MbMm_gtUcNeoeJxszdXqip2DSsH8DYgo12Y64zzoOBeryUEyDn3QQwRl5DaphhEm3iGWXm0WI8_DoNi0uqSoUF6UMJLx8eF2_Oyz2jg_gGsgsQpqz1msY7fGO4iMb8EDF2zFywqi4/s400/blue_heron1.png" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5504716502623897618" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmmmK8Qf4tuwLALE9-6o7wriE_AUXc-egYQ7O3YPc4Ge2qgh5TsQJmo4zb0-YAZdxC7rjuHs5Fr5y09Ju4QAV9OpVjXH7PQHn3GMSIdqy5od-YRt0F3FELUw2aJmQkMTt6_RZ1k8ezEic/s1600/blue_heron2.png"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 251px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmmmK8Qf4tuwLALE9-6o7wriE_AUXc-egYQ7O3YPc4Ge2qgh5TsQJmo4zb0-YAZdxC7rjuHs5Fr5y09Ju4QAV9OpVjXH7PQHn3GMSIdqy5od-YRt0F3FELUw2aJmQkMTt6_RZ1k8ezEic/s400/blue_heron2.png" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5504716486759882386" /></a><br />Female Mallard Duck:<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJd4tj5BQ6yYOpspBJ4dfHfOhVPrKd98ZGv4C6XQfl4gtREh9XGXAajj5ONQruCt-icFn8QJJ9LqtHx4BUps47cbhb9UfUtRToXUTBksFkUTIy_n-o0pzHJyn4KuG4099LdeiMmIXxDe4/s1600/duck1.png"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJd4tj5BQ6yYOpspBJ4dfHfOhVPrKd98ZGv4C6XQfl4gtREh9XGXAajj5ONQruCt-icFn8QJJ9LqtHx4BUps47cbhb9UfUtRToXUTBksFkUTIy_n-o0pzHJyn4KuG4099LdeiMmIXxDe4/s400/duck1.png" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5504716469969856834" /></a><br /><br />I'm still getting used to all the various settings in manual mode, but so far I am <i>very</i> happy with the photos.<br /><br />~JPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09648020512804492015noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8106556757097232815.post-26704366157580623922010-08-12T07:35:00.000-07:002010-08-12T08:40:59.112-07:00ARROYO SECO<div style="text-align: justify;">What follows are some pictures from my recent trip to Arroyo Seco, California. This style of camping is what I would call "luxury primitive," meaning that I slept in a sleeping bag inside of a tent (and there were latrines nearby). No pad or pillow, but that didn't get in the way of a couple good nights of sleep. My brother and I spent the days exploring, snapping pictures, and fishing. The evenings consisted of gathering firewood, cooking dinner, and relaxing with cold beer in hand. We roasted our corn in the shuck, directly over the flames, allowing the outside to blacken. When it was thoroughly singed, we moved the ears into indirect heat and left on for about 45 minutes. We both agreed that it was the most phenomenal corn we'd ever tasted. Butter and salt/pepper seemed only to tame the corn's already perfect flavor. In conjunction with a ground beef/baked beans combo and perfectly grilled hotdogs, camp dinner turned out to be one of the highlights of the trip. We were skunked at the nearby fishing lake, but it was a pleasure just to enjoy the beautiful scenery. These photos were taken with my little Panasonic Lumix DMC-15 point-and-shoot: </div><br /><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN23S63ODqJcE665oYb7bWrSGDNX9NP-bV00LSWoy8URYiiINXGzlTKQq1lTUBEoLIxoxScmy8H4TJuCzRw8lg-TnhxcpsPnGEu8eU01812bx4IvJNyiO24aL6t4gwN9NcJodEf1YQhpk/s800/camping1.jpg" /><br /><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_7H5H1mLsFewTe48piN63rwOA_I7lyptfctDTeRwd2LKr5m7I8MAni3oVAUtxMUk3QGe8H-YP2M7HaBbrRI-SlYjRPmharUqgc-2o9x2ncLMslLU00QWBn-bHd8s7yLAxOI1LPMT0aBo/s800/camping2.jpg" /><br /><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieEXyfWNF2PNhB12PspS_jW7Di-bQbV2uYA2JVQTRyi4zOWsTQhqYO1mITDxTKYRZwGWMmxbPKqVyeTdiTi8mUaTIie_jggLbvveLuct89OfJEJMUpu0s_UIyJH80Dth0NZTyKdIBWlkI/s800/camping3.jpg" /><br /><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKYJTm3QHoscu8uVbfyGN_dHsxMv1RlXEZao_ME_gh6IrP1KSYaYq1vWc-mDsxTEBqRBGHCgW8Vs_q9Qo4p0Ysl3SHKIQplUG-k7LPwDkfctYN3O-MmmhF4o4vDb1ZqJCi81yvDPKZzqA/s800/butterfly1.jpg" /><br /><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLqenEUkFk-jzJDqulhW7MErOe5Ir7N_rJhTBjoQQJiIDuFxh4j4svdP_FWWzcq1wdoFWfbxJv_g94wvGrql5uTnC0Dg6x9ewEn1hJNWddSIkLKqQeGt8MxwPayvyEMgLbu6s719t3tTM/s800/lizard1.jpg" /><br /><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4elCpCF2ArtcmNQKCjRijip7VR810t8P50Fhq6_9h1Xcbu-nWORGmkCDRVenFdyVsuwgQ_RGOQ3EAVmPZuRkPXqwVaNhTy8OAD9wIRoHS-GiM5nt_1xHkp_OZoeCCw9a3EBu8qsenQek/s800/camping4.jpg" /><br /><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhi1kBGqUEvaqLJmqdWF-Ag3hi3_hE4UZ1L5uwypELxXaURlqFC9LuhZ2oUUrJc_McfX2NmM_it4C_Ktcc3JI38RCYP_AQnak0f6hDrUyE9ov7FjWQzvAC76HURiL6M8aGgqsv-h8TiK2Q/s800/camping5.jpg" /><br /><br />~JPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09648020512804492015noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8106556757097232815.post-52636965186416595152010-07-01T17:25:00.000-07:002010-07-02T08:32:34.020-07:00PRODUCT REVIEW: GERBER SUSPENSION<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.gerber-tools.com/images/Gerber-Suspension-01471-master-350x350.gif"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 350px; height: 350px;" src="http://www.gerber-tools.com/images/Gerber-Suspension-01471-master-350x350.gif" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">Of all my various tools and equipment, the item which sees the most frequent daily use is my venerable multi-tool, the Gerber Suspension. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><u><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: none; "><u>ERGONOMICS:</u></span></div></u><div style="text-align: justify;">This tool weighs a fairly hefty 8.8 ounces and its presence can be felt in a pant pocket without being cumbersome to the wearer. The Suspension comes with a black nylon belt pouch for carry, but I prefer not to use it. This tool has a heavily stylized look to it, with cutaways which give a glimpse at the implements inside. The contours make gripping the tool relatively comfortable and the cutaways lend a small amount of hold to a tool that lacks any real texture. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><u><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: none; "><u>FUNCTION:</u></span></div></u><div style="text-align: justify;">The Gerber Suspension features a total of twelve tools: Needle-nose pliers, round pliers, wire cutters, fine edge knife, medium flathead screwdriver, "flattened" phillips screwdriver, saw, serrated knife, bottle/can opener, small flathead screwdriver, and scissors. There is also a folding lanyard ring. Every folding tool locks firmly, using Gerber's neat Saf.T.Plus system. To release the lock, the user simply slides the notched bars on each side of the tool with a thumb and forefinger, then collapses the implement back into the frame. There are also helpful icons etched next to the lock release that illustrate which tool is hidden on which side. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">The Suspension's pliers can be opened with one hand, as can both knives via incorporated thumb studs. Be warned, however, that it takes some force to flick the pliers open this way, and the user is likely to get a strong rap on the knuckles. Gerber has smartly placed a small amount of rubber lining on the inside frame, which prevents metal impact when closing the pliers.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Only two of the Suspension's implements are of questionable utility: the phillips screwdriver and the saw. Gerber has used a flattened design on the screwdriver, with a heavy tapering of the cross-pattern. This design gives very poor grip and encourages stripping of the screw head. I stopped using this implement altogether. The saw is also questionable because of its short length (less than two inches). While the aggressive teeth do an excellent job of cutting, the length severely limits this tool's usefulness. The small-diameter branches which the saw is capable of cutting will likely be quicker and easier to sever with a knife. The saw teeth are also prone to clogging and difficult to clean well. The substitution of a file would have made more sense. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><u><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: none; "><u>DURABILITY:</u></span></div></u><div style="text-align: justify;">Every implement opened with ease right out of the package, and has continued to function flawlessly over the two years that I've owned this tool. I have only oiled the "joints" once. Some of the implements have begun to form a tiny amount of surface rust which rubs off with a finger, but overall this tool has held up very well. The locking mechanism is as strong now as it was when new. The outside frame and markings appear untouched, despite heavy use. The knives on my tool are a bit scratched up, but the cosmetic damage has not minimized their utility. The blades hold a decent edge, but definitely require routine sharpening with daily use, particularly if cutting a lot of paper, cardboard, tape, etc. The scissor design uses a pin for tension (rather than a spring) and still works like new.</div> <div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">I've read other reviews complaining about plier weakness, but mine have performed extremely well. I've even utilized the pliers in situations that were not really fit for such a tool (where breakage would be more likely), and they've served admirably. I can only conclude that those other reviewers either received a lemon, or were using the pliers in a manner inconsistent with their purpose. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><u><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: none; "><u>PROS:</u></span></div></u><div style="text-align: justify;">- Durability</div><div style="text-align: justify;">- One-handed opening</div><div style="text-align: justify;">- Respectable array of 12 implements</div><div style="text-align: justify;">- Excellent locking system</div><div style="text-align: justify;">- Price</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><u><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: none; "><u>CONS:</u></span></div></u><div style="text-align: justify;">- Poor Phillips screwdriver design</div><div style="text-align: justify;">- Saw blade is too short</div><div style="text-align: justify;">- Lack of file</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><u><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: none; "><u>BOTTOM LINE:</u></span></div></u><div style="text-align: justify;">This multi-tool can be had in the $20.00 range and, for the price, the Gerber Suspension cannot be bettered. It has a few design flaws, but features one-handed use, full locking implements, and great functionality.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><u><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: none; "><u>GRADE:</u> </span></div></u><b><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal; "><b>93/100 - A</b> </span></div></b><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1_mQnKrD6UC8eyIr-z-BmZa0UjPY1iBZkij681Lr9Mi0O_HEGTPXNlUF8HBy6q-IWqJEQ1XPqTqUCskFjakNS4kYYINJ3p2pK0Gi6J3ZqLROfMqly9n2DXkydaqpbe6SYMaAGIy8tI_Y/s1600/suspension4.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1_mQnKrD6UC8eyIr-z-BmZa0UjPY1iBZkij681Lr9Mi0O_HEGTPXNlUF8HBy6q-IWqJEQ1XPqTqUCskFjakNS4kYYINJ3p2pK0Gi6J3ZqLROfMqly9n2DXkydaqpbe6SYMaAGIy8tI_Y/s400/suspension4.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5489330516279356002" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKWx7ANYwFqXJllqK7In20YY1wdazfSLBWxtBOeiJZRsOsl-yrt8Dy4uezdlOhyphenhyphen9rGn62bQklDIWsbSeBl7l0smeL7JqCPo0ihktGkGbHkbkhDRjy699LfkcH2-7pzj_tF-8AOxGaptfQ/s1600/suspension3.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKWx7ANYwFqXJllqK7In20YY1wdazfSLBWxtBOeiJZRsOsl-yrt8Dy4uezdlOhyphenhyphen9rGn62bQklDIWsbSeBl7l0smeL7JqCPo0ihktGkGbHkbkhDRjy699LfkcH2-7pzj_tF-8AOxGaptfQ/s400/suspension3.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5489330513764118946" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTjTEDZH_eVJB-M8NUWJQpb72Zs-JQNDoiy8KhA9nkicQTmpc3du8v220EGq6vW2Y37-J5lvNeI2U7_UNYrhJ8iREY9tPC4uMGe99JxP7qU6euvTQixx8a_43OKIFEsmR6FY3_UTU1jiI/s1600/suspension2.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTjTEDZH_eVJB-M8NUWJQpb72Zs-JQNDoiy8KhA9nkicQTmpc3du8v220EGq6vW2Y37-J5lvNeI2U7_UNYrhJ8iREY9tPC4uMGe99JxP7qU6euvTQixx8a_43OKIFEsmR6FY3_UTU1jiI/s400/suspension2.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5489330510273810818" /></a><br /><br />~JPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09648020512804492015noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8106556757097232815.post-53784710955603850142010-06-25T07:14:00.000-07:002010-06-25T07:44:29.504-07:00BUG: IT'S WHAT'S FOR DINNER<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.dvorak.org/blog/wp-content/uploads/2008/06/insect_plate_l.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 363px; height: 272px;" src="http://www.dvorak.org/blog/wp-content/uploads/2008/06/insect_plate_l.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">Although my experience is not far-ranging, I have sampled ants, larvae, mealworms, small moths, and random flying insects that have been unfortunate enough to find themselves in my drink. This year I hope to expand my palatal horizon by trying maggots and grasshoppers. I don't personally have a psychological aversion to eating bugs, and it seems like an act that any person truly interested in survival should acquaint himself with. In a real survival scenario, do you really want to add the incipient experience of bug-tasting to your list of struggles? The person already accustomed to this six-legged savory experience will be eager for a meal, without the unnecessary hesitation or anxiety. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">What follows is a collection of links on finding, preparing, and consuming bugs. Enjoy!</div><br /><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Entomophagy">Entomophagy - Wikipedia</a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.survival.com/hoodswoods/?page_id=100">Eating Bugs by Ron Hood</a><br /><br /><a href="http://wildernesssurvivalskills.org/eating-bugs-for-survival/">Eating Bugs for Survival</a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Gerber-Suspension-Butterfly-Opening-Multi-Plier/dp/B000EDPT9K/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=hi&qid=1277473583&sr=8-1">Eating Bugs! By Aletheia Price</a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.ca.uky.edu/entomology/dept/bugfood1.asp">Insects as Food?!? by Stephanie Bailey</a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.time.com/time/magazine/article/0,9171,1810336,00.html">Eating Bugs by Bryan Walsh</a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.ent.iastate.edu/misc/insectsasfood.html">Iowa State University's Tasty Insect Recipes</a><br /><br /><a href="http://news.nationalgeographic.com/news/2004/07/0715_040715_tvinsectfood.html">For Most People, Eating Bugs is Only Natural</a><br /><br /><a href="http://today.msnbc.msn.com/id/27277764/ns/today-today_people/">Eating Insects Kept Injured Climber Alive on Mountain</a><br /><br />~JPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09648020512804492015noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8106556757097232815.post-16153443102134700172010-06-24T09:52:00.000-07:002010-06-27T18:49:40.404-07:00TRAP: FIGURE-FOUR DEADFALL<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.gutenberg.org/files/17093/17093-h/images/fig073.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 498px; height: 307px;" src="http://www.gutenberg.org/files/17093/17093-h/images/fig073.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">The figure-four deadfall is a classic trap that is tried and proven. The concept is similar to that of the Paiute deadfall, but the figure-four has the advantage of using only sticks for the mechanism, and is arguably simpler to construct. Below is an excellent video showing how to construct and set-up the figure-four deadfall. Ron Hood also adds some useful tips to improve the design.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><object width="480" height="385"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/HY-JEctyHOs&hl=en_US&fs=1&"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/HY-JEctyHOs&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="385"></embed></object><br /><br /><object width="480" height="385"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/seAevIIfUxY&hl=en_US&fs=1&"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/seAevIIfUxY&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="385"></embed></object><br /><br />~JPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09648020512804492015noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8106556757097232815.post-5137492987534532942010-06-23T18:45:00.000-07:002010-06-23T18:46:44.190-07:00TRAP: STATIONARY BOW<div style="text-align: justify;">The bow offers several useful options to the trap-maker, including the ability to kill medium-to-large prey without supervision in a survival situation, or to provide bolstering self-defense in a SHTF scenario. The following pictures and video illustrate a few general variations of the idea. When time allows, I'll be experimenting with some prototypes of my own. I'll be sure to divulge any successful results.<br /></div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.survivaliq.com/survival/PIC/fig8-14.gif"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 450px; height: 335px;" src="http://www.survivaliq.com/survival/PIC/fig8-14.gif" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/9/9d/Tripwire-activated_bows.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 521px; height: 395px;" src="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/9/9d/Tripwire-activated_bows.JPG" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><object height="344" width="425"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/Cq-5xxbKbDM&hl=en&fs=1&"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/Cq-5xxbKbDM&hl=en&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" height="344" width="425"></embed></object><br /><div><br /></div><div>~</div>JPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09648020512804492015noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8106556757097232815.post-24705194798998360442010-06-23T18:41:00.000-07:002010-06-23T18:42:14.970-07:00KNOT LESSON: LOBSTER BUOY HITCH<div style="text-align: justify;">The lobster buoy hitch is a fast, secure knot that I find myself using in almost any instance where a rope must be fastened to a post, railing, tree branch, or ring. It works well as the "fixed end" of a rope, like a clothing line, where the opposite end is attached with a taut-line hitch, for adjusting tension. The lobster buoy hitch gets its name from the commercial fisherman who use it to tie off their pot strings and buoy markers. Though it first appears somewhat bulky and pretzelesque, this knot compacts well once tightened, and is very strong. Unfortunately, it can jam (especially with certain types of cordage), but in most cases is fairly easy to untie, even after bearing a heavy load. I also use my own "slip" variation, where the working end is formed into a <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Working_end#Bight">bight</a> before making the last pass through the hitch loop. The knot then remains secure under load, but can be released much faster by pulling the tail of the slip, which collapses the knot. I wouldn't recommend the slip variant for any critical load, but it works quite well for most applications. Here is the lobster buoy hitch:<br /></div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_uYybgEua2dI/Sbp41hXJmzI/AAAAAAAAAQY/JC0py8F-6w8/s1600-h/buoy_hitch1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 192px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_uYybgEua2dI/Sbp41hXJmzI/AAAAAAAAAQY/JC0py8F-6w8/s320/buoy_hitch1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5312691571320789810" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_uYybgEua2dI/Sbp4_HeBfiI/AAAAAAAAAQg/-FW27NKcwgE/s1600-h/buoy_hitch2.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 320px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_uYybgEua2dI/Sbp4_HeBfiI/AAAAAAAAAQg/-FW27NKcwgE/s320/buoy_hitch2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5312691736168988194" border="0" /></a><br />The Rope People also provide a useful animation of this knot.<br />View it <a href="http://www.theropepeople.com/LobsterBouyHitchi.html">HERE</a>.<br /><div><br /></div><div>~</div>JPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09648020512804492015noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8106556757097232815.post-13356961858242456162010-06-23T18:37:00.000-07:002010-06-23T18:39:21.397-07:00TRAP: PAIUTE DEADFALL<object height="344" width="425"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/vTCQHhWaFBE&hl=en&fs=1"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/vTCQHhWaFBE&hl=en&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" height="344" width="425"></embed></object><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_uYybgEua2dI/SXfsXEXoUpI/AAAAAAAAAOw/Q1sCyp91SHA/s1600-h/paiute_df1.gif"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 296px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_uYybgEua2dI/SXfsXEXoUpI/AAAAAAAAAOw/Q1sCyp91SHA/s400/paiute_df1.gif" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5293959768051307154" border="0" /></a><br /><br />~JPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09648020512804492015noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8106556757097232815.post-65239754554577509472010-06-23T18:33:00.000-07:002010-06-23T18:56:38.275-07:00KNOT LESSON: THE ZEPPELIN BEND<div><div align="justify"></div><div style="text-align: justify;">This week's knot is the Zeppelin Bend knot -- my favorite knot for tying together two ropes of similar diameter. This knot is easy to untie, is more secure under a load than the sheet bend, and is incredibly simple. There are multiple ways to tie the Zeppelin Bend. This video shows the method whereby the tyer starts with the ropes' working ends in his hand, parallel, with the ends flush:</div><div><br /></div><div><object height="344" width="425"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/7O7PgfkqskA&hl=en&fs=1"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/7O7PgfkqskA&hl=en&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object></div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">There is another method of tying, which might help the beginner to visualize how the knot works, and further ensure success in tying the knot in the alternate manner shown above. This method starts with the ropes' working ends lying on the ground. You can survey the full instructions at <a href="http://www.survivaltopics.com/survival/how-to-make-a-zeppelin-bend-knot/">Survival Topics</a>. Here is a visual synopsis:</div><div></div><p><a href="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/4/45/Zeppelin_Bend_HowTo.jpg"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 411px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 290px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/4/45/Zeppelin_Bend_HowTo.jpg" border="0" /></a></p></div><div>When the knot is dressed, the final product should be symmetrical and look like this: <p></p><p></p></div><div><a href="http://notableknotindex.webs.com/zbdone.gif"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 189px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 133px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://notableknotindex.webs.com/zbdone.gif" border="0" /></a></div><div><p></p><p align="justify"></p></div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">The Zeppelin Bend is sometimes also referred to as Rosendahl's Bend, since it was the only knot Lt. Commander Charles Rosendahl would trust for the mooring of his zeppelin. In <i>The Complete Book of Knots</i>, Budworth notes that the Zeppelin Bend is "probably the best of a whole trustworthy family of symmetrical bends comprising two interlocked overhand knots. It works even in big stiff hawsers and cables and is suitable for everything from hobbies to heavy industrial use. [...] The knot does not have to be completely tightened before loading; it is secure even with daylight showing through it."</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">This knot should be in the permanent repertoire of all campers, climbers, boatsmen, and survivalists. <p></p></div><div><br /></div><div>~</div>JPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09648020512804492015noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8106556757097232815.post-60235465834138420942010-06-23T18:29:00.000-07:002010-06-23T18:30:57.998-07:00FIRESTARTING: THE BOW-DRILL METHOD<div style="text-align: justify;">...using only what nature provides.</div><div style="text-align: justify;">This is one of the better videos I've seen on the subject. Concise, accurate, and easy to follow. He makes it look so easy!</div><div><br /></div><div><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/bDcKsiOZ3Ho&hl=en&fs=1"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/bDcKsiOZ3Ho&hl=en&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object></div><div><br /></div><div>~</div>JPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09648020512804492015noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8106556757097232815.post-23836001420144097152010-06-23T18:22:00.000-07:002010-06-23T18:26:39.336-07:00KNOT LESSON: THE MONKEY'S FIST<div><div style="text-align: justify;">I'll be posting similar tutorials from time to time, as I find them. Everyone should know a few basic techniques (how to tie a rope to various objects, how to tie two ropes together, how to tie an adjustable/sliding knot, etc.), and various knots come in handy for a variety of reasons and in numerous situations, from survival to work to bedroom fun.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">The Monkey's Fist is a specialist knot, used for adding weight to a rope. The knot can simply be tightened into a ball unto itself or a heavy object can be placed inside the knot before tightening. Traditionally, sailors used this technique to render rope suitable for heaving greater distances. The Monkey's Fist can also be employed as a weapon. This knot is fairly time-consuming, and may take a proficient tyer 15 minutes or more to finish (tightening the knot is the lengthy part). It is also possible to leave excess rope on the other side of the "fist," although the video does not illustrate this.</div><div></div></div><div><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/Aa8E6131B_M&hl=en&fs=1"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/Aa8E6131B_M&hl=en&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object></div><div><br /></div><div>~</div>JPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09648020512804492015noreply@blogger.com0