First Aid and Safety- Take a First Aid Kit

First aid kits

You know, I hear from a lot of people, asking about first aid kits. Many are concerned about weight, the cost, or buying the wrong size, or even not wanting a certain kit because they feel it is too bulky. Let me just say this, there is no substitute for having the right first aid kit for the right injury. I'll tell you a little story, about of of my first forays into the wilderness to help put into perspective of how important the right kit is. It was years ago, but having just gotten out of the military, I understood the value of having the right first aid kit. Unlike many of my friends, I packed along each trip, a military style first aid kit. Now if any of you have ever seen one, they are fairly large, bulky even. They include items we do not normally associate with first aid. Items my friends said I would never need and I was carelessly carrying extra weight. This went on through the spring and summer as we ventured around the mountains and deserts of south and south eastern California, one weekend after another.

Finally, toward mid fall, we were camping somewhere north of the Joshua Tree National Forest. (it's way east of Los Angeles, if that will give you a clue) Anyway, the group of us hiker's also rode motorcycle's on and off in those days. Dirt bikes, not street bikes and this particular weekend was one of those "on" weekends where we rode dirt bikes. Now, before I get too involved in the story, I should tell you. If you are not familiar with California, their deserts and mountains are pocked with old mines. Mines of all kinds, silver, gold, whatever. Most all of them abandoned these days. Some mines were sunk into the sides of mountains like you see in the old westerns, others were just dug straight down, where ever and when ever. They were always kind of fun to go into, although we sounded brave, we never ventured any deeper than the past the light from outside penetrated. But, even at that, we found all manner oc collectibles, old bottles, abandoned plates and silverware, some mine car harnesses (the metal parts, as most of the wood had rotted away) and other things we as kids, deemd "valuable.".

 

 It so happened that this day, that we were riding across a wide open desert basin. Close your eyes now and imagine a 'U' shaped valley, ringed on three sides by mountains and a flat desert floor, completely denuded of vegetation. I can still remember the stark whiteness of it as we rode across it. Nothing growing or alive anywhere. We were headed for a mine someone had seen the day before. Picture, five motorcycles riding abreast, about 30 or 40 feet apart, riding across this desert floor. None of us noticed anything out of the ordinary, least of all my friend. One second he was riding slightly ahead and to my left, the next second his motorcycle was buried nose first in the desert and he was flying. I mean literally tumbling and turning through the air at the same speed as we were (probably 40 or 50 mph). His body slowed and finally hit the ground feet first somehow, and then from there, it got worse before he stopped. I immediately slowed down and rode over to where he had finally landed.

I'll save you the details, but suffice to say he had a compound fracture of his right tibia and fibula and a broken hand. Luckily, other than a lot of lost skin, they were his only major injuries. I had the supplies in my first aid kit, to not only set his leg, but treat the compound fracture for infection and prevent more serious damage before we could get him out of there. I was also able to immobilize his hand and clean up the scraped and abraded skin and make him comfortable. We even rigged the emergency blanket as a sunshelter while one of the others went for help. (no cell phones in those days) Never again, did my friends say anything about my first aid kit. In fact they went out and bought similar one's of their own.
The long and the short of it was, that it took us nearly four hours for rescue to get there and get him transported to a town called Twenty Nine Palms, to a hospital. Had we not been able to treat him for his injuries and for infection at the site? Who knows what the turn of events could have been? Needless to say, my friend is walking and talking still, with nothing more that a few scars to mark that day. I'm not saying you have to buy and carry what I do, but for gosh sakes, at least buy something besides one of the standard kits. You never know when you will need the right kit. Always be prepared. Over the years, I have sewn up cuts, set broken legs and arms, butter fly bandaged all manner of cuts, just to help people while before they were able to get to a doctor. My final thoughts; its better to be safe on the trail by being prepared... always take the right first aid kit for the trip.

Remember, be safe and I'll see you on the trail! Campingman

Mountain Hardwear EV 3 Tent

Good Morning,

As I said in my previous post, the Mountain Hardwear EV 3 tent is what I consider, the "Big Brother" to the EV 2 tents.  Again, designed with the help of Ed Viesturs, in that this tent too is compact, light and strong, utilizing TX107 PU fabric (a fabric that is non stretch laminate, that stabilizes and strengthens when set up.) It's interior zipper along with the 5 welded, adjustable vents, works well with frost management and protection from the elements. 

OK, remember that I said I would talk a bit more about Ed Viesturs? Well, he is a native of the state of Washington and is widely regarded as one of the country's foremost high altitude mountaineers. Not only is he a professional mountaineer, but he works as a design consultant for several prominent equipment manufacturers. Hence, the initials on this line of tents, EV. His simple motto: "Climbing has to be a round trip."

My motto, which you have repeatedly read in my blogs : "Plan your trip, plan your gear, plan your exit" follows right along with Ed's (Although I think his motto was first).  Ed has successfully climbed all 14 of the world's 8,000 meter peaks, without supplemental oxygen. He is the first and only American climber and just one of a handful to accomplish this. You can see from his credentials, that he is eminently qualified to help design anything related to mountain climbing. Which brings me full circle, to the EV 3.

As you may have guessed, by the name, this is a three man tent. I however, use it as a two man tent with gear. This tent incorporates many of the design features of the EV 2, with the addition of an integrated vestibule area, which allows for space for boots and other sundry items near the door. More interior space for gear, and excellent venting. Again, with the zippered snow port in the floor, for excess snow removal you drag in, w/o the necessity of unzipping the tent. It's simple and fast to set up, much as the EV 2, but with the added interior capacity. Weighing in at 6 lbs. you will find it more than adequate and light for hiking. What all of this means? It truly is a cold weather tent. Mountain Hardwear knows how to make great tents and you will love this one.

That's it for today, I will conclude my series on the tents in the next few days., again, thanks for reading and I'll see you on the trail-- Campingman

Mountain Hardwear EV-2 Tents

Mountain Hardwear EV-2 Tents

Good Morning,

As promised, I am going to continue in my series on various types of tents. The harsh weather tents are on my mind right now due to the cold weather I have been hunting in. I love it, but I love it more when I have a warm, dry place to go to at the end of the long day. 

The Mountain Hardwear line has long been a favorite of mine. Not only are they well made, but are durable and backed by a great warranty. The Mountain Hardwear EV 2 tent was designed with the help of Ed Viesturs. For those of you who do not know who he is, I will talk a bit more about him later on. Suffice it to say, if he is involved, there is some serious tent designing going on.

The EV 2 is sold as a two man camping tent, but if you use it for two, it will be a bit snug. I like this tent, because of it's ability to be used a high elevations and in narrow spaces. (such as that ledge you found yourself on last time) Again, let me repeat, it is a single walled tent, and as such, you may find it a bit cold for single camping. Take a good bag and you will be fine. But it is lightweight (right at 5 lbs.) so that makes up for it.

The Mountain Hardwear EV 2 is a tent for high altitudes. What that means, that it is as close to a snow shelter as you can find. It is not designed as a car camping tent, or a summertime tent. .It is designed to be a bunker, to get you out of harsh weather, and lives up to it's reputation. I find the ventilation in this tent is more than adequate, when used properly, which means less condensation, making it safer for indoor cooking. Condensation is a fact of life in a single wall tent, so expect some. Set up with the clips, is fast, simple and easy. You will find that it's inherently narrow design allows it to fit almost anywhere.

Also, as with any tent, slap the door a couple times before you open it, just to knock off any snow. This sturdy little tent holds up in strong winds, even if you forgot to put out the guys or stake it down tightly. Mt. Hood (as many mountains are) notorious for wind gusts through your base camps at night, and this one will stand up to it. There is even a zippered port in the floor of the tent, to provide an exit port for excess snow you drag in.

Next up, a tent that I consider as Mountain headwear's big brother to the EV 2. That's it for today, and as always, hike safe and I'll see you on the trail-- Campingman

Black Diamond HiLight 2 person tent

Black Diamond HiLight 2 person tent

Good Morning,

The first two tents in this series are for rugged weather hiking/camping, etc. Whereas, not all of you will have need of double walled construction, but you want something that is water proof right out of the box. With that spiel, I introduce you to the Black Diamond HiLight 2 Person Tent.

 I like this tent, for it's roominess. The two and a half (yes, 2 1/2, I'll explain later) pole design allows for the steep sides and high ceiling.This tent is made and sold, as a two person tent, and it truly is big enough for two people and their gear.  But....if I'm hiking by myself (which is frequent) this tent allows for roomy comfort inside a dry interior. THAT alone, a dry interior, makes all the difference at the end of the long wet day, knowing that your tent is going to keep you warm and dry overnight. Besides, it weighs in at 3 lbs, so it  is comfortable in my pack. It's steep side design, sheds water like a ducks back. 

The canopy  is made with highly water resistant NanoShield fabric. This breathable fabric is proprietary to super light tents such as this. Now, before going further, this tent offers an optional vestibule...buy it, and you will be glad you did, as it allows you the extra room to cook in a semi-covered environment, without having to move all of your gear about. The door and the rear of the tent have mesh enclosures for ventilation.

Now, for the explanation of the 2 1/2 pole design. If you are not familiar with tent's, this can appear confusing. I mean really? What would you use "half of a pole for?" Simple. if you look at the tent, you can see the simple two pole criss cross design for support. The "half pole" is simply inserted into the grommets sewn into the top of the tent and the "half pole" supports the weight for the other two, allowing for a drip free entryway. Simple design.

Next up, a series on Mountain Hardwear tents. I hope you have found the information helpful and as always? Hike safe and I'll see you on the trail-- Campingman

Black Diamond Squall, 3 person tent

Good Morning,

Black Diamond Squall 3 person tent

 

In keeping with the harsh weather tent concept, I want to expand slightly on the Black Diamond design series, and talk today about the Black Diamond Squall, 3 person tent. You will note, it's design is similar to that of the "Stormtrack Tent, which is another reason I like this tent. Again, with the double walled construction that I have become so fond of, the adjustable front and rear roof vents, to maximize airflow. You will find, with this design, the Black Diamond Stormtracker/Squall series tents can stand up to prolonged mountain weather. Whatever nature can throw at you, this tent can take it.  

 

If you've ever hiked, camped or hunted in Idaho, Montana, Colorado, or Oregon, you know the weather can get downright gnarly in a heartbeat. Sometimes, even before you get to your predesignated camping spot. If that turns out to be the case, this series tents, can take that kind of punishment. The "Squall 3 person tent, has the same taped 2500 mm polyester fly as well as the 5000 mm nylon floor as the Stormtrack.  Again, I suggest using the "Tube Tent" as a ground cover. The interior space is broader, and with the same vestibules front and rear, there is plenty of storage space.

 

The setup is simple and easy, utilizing Black Diamond's "50/50 sleeve and clip fast hub setup process" you heard me mention that phrase in the "Stormtracker tent" post... Well, I'm going to go into that just a bit, so that it makes sense. What that is, is, the utilization of 'sleeves' for the poles supporting the front of the tent and 'clips' to support the rear of the tent. These clips attach to the poles in the rear, allowing setup to be accomplished easily by one person. The hubs, are the ingenious design of inserting the poles into the tent ground stake extensions.

 

Next up, a lighter weight model Black Diamond tent for rainy weather, the Black Diamond HiLight 2 person tent. Hike safe and I'll see you on the trail-- Campingman

 

 

PS- Here's a quick tip: When attaching the exterior cover for your tent, spread the gray mesh section over the front door and life will be wonderful.

Black Diamond Stormtrack 2 person tent

Harsh Weather Tents

Good Morning,

Having just returned from my latest foray into the wilderness on a short hunting trip, and I would like to take some time and share a bit on tents. I know I've previously spoken on tents for one or two people as well as family tents. Mostly just good all around general tents, for general use. What about a tent for the snow? Fall hunting season generally happens when the first snows begin to fall, so today, I am going to start a series on tents that are more for the winter. Having just returned from a trip, I am able to share some of my experiences. Now, keep in mind, that ANY tent can be used in pretty much any weather if: Properly water proofed, supported well, (in case of snows) and insulated. My point here, is why go to all of that bother if you can have a tent for the season you are hiking/camping/hunting in?

In the next several days, I will cover a few tents from Black Diamond, Mountain Hardwear and maybe even a Kelty tent or two. You can see, that I pretty much stick with these manufacturers, as over the years, I have had great luck with all three so I pass along my experiences. That being said, I am going to start off with the Black Diamond brand of tents.

Black Diamond Stormtrack 2 person tent

I like this model, for several reason's. First, it won the Backpacker Magazine's Torture Test.  To start with, it is a four season, free standing, double walled tent. Black Diamond refers to this particular tent as their "Base Camp" shelter. They are not kidding. The reason? It's double walled design. This in itself, helps to not only insulate, but withstand the toughest weather. You can set the tent up, almost anywhere and find yourself protected from the elements. If you need to hunker down, in really bad weather, and you can't get to a more sheltered area? No problem, this is the tent. 

If you just want out of the snow, the rain, or just plain cold weather, this Black Diamond Stormtrack tent fits that need. 

With adjustable front and rear top vents, there is plenty of airflow. The double wall design features 3 poles  for speedy setup and stability in high winds. It's noted by Black Diamond, as "50/50 sleeve/clip fast pitch hub set up." The double end doors allow easy entry, plenty of gear storage (the vestibules are plenty roomy for storage) and cooking space. How much space you ask...it's nearly 7 1/2 feet long (this is sleeping space only, the vestibules add more length, you can use for storage). This tent's sleeping area is just over 5 feet wide. The door fly is taped, 2500 mm polyester and the floor itself is 5000 mm nylon. With that in mind, remember the "Tube Tent/ground cover" I spoke of in an earlier blog? Well, here is a time to use it. Spread it on the ground under you tent before setup, for just that teensy bit additional insulation form the cold. You won't be sorry you did.

My next post will be on the Black Diamond line, once again The "Squall" 3 person tent.. Stay safe and I'll see you on the trail-- Campingan

Mountain Hardwear Summit Rocket 30 Backpack

Good Morning,

My final backpacking review today.... then back to a few more days of hunting... one of my favorite fall activities. 

Mountain Hardwear Summit Rocket 30 Backpack

 

I saved this entry for last, for a variety of reasons. But first and foremost, I really like this pack. It is indeed a lightweight pack, but it was made that way for a reason. Purists don't like it, because it is so light. But, going beyond the physical look of the pack, there are some seriously exciting and innovative features you miss at first glance. Mountain Hardwear went out of their way with the design of the Summit Rocket 30. They understand about weight, so they made many of their specialty features removable for just that reason. They understand uses, they understand versatility, they understand what we need and want.

 

When looking for a backpack, I've said to always look for the pack for the use intended. (or words very much to that effect)  Well, this one is no exception. I use a pack like this for those day pushes up a mountain, where I don't need all the bells and whistles, but want to be comfortable along the way. It has a lightweight removable waist belt, which I like because the adjustable shoulder straps and sternum straps still secure the load during some of those really edgy approaches we all get into. If I take out the frame sheet when I need to shave weight, not only does it stabilize the load, but increases comfort. Stripping it down, this pack comes in at under a pound, and without all the extra weight, it can be rolled up and stuffed inside a bigger backpack to continue the longer trek.

 

It even has a top zip pocket for snacks (my favorite feature as you know, access to snacks). On the outside,  there are so many vertical and horizontal daisy chains that you will have plenty of exterior lash points for climbing, mountaineering, or backpacking gear, and a cradle for an ice axe. The compression system can be added for stability or extra gear but is removable for cutting weight. I leave it on for someplace to store trash and those discarded water bottles I find out there.

 

All around, even though this is a lightweight day pack it has tons of uses and I have barely scratched the surface. The versatility of this one, makes it 'King' of the day packs.

 

Stay safe out there and I'll see you on the trail. ~ Campingman

 

 

Mountain Hardwear Hueco 34 Backpack

Good Morning,

Still home and not out hunting so today we will talk about a different type of backpack... yes I own a lot of packs between myself, my children and my hunting buddies. You always need just the right one for the trip. 

Mountain Hardwear Hueco 34 Backpack

 

Let's talk a bit about the Mountain Hardwear Hueco 34 Backpack. It is considered a day pack, but can be used for overnight's or longer. This is a pack that you can feel comfortable taking to the office, your gym or that mountain climb you plan to make in two weeks. A pack that once again, is a top loader. I just can't say enough about how much better these type packs are. No side zipper's to snag and pull open, dumping your contents down the side of some gorge. Face it, you're not going to be gone long enough, that digging down to the bottom for something is going to present an obstacle you cannot get around. Besides, the bag isn't that big. Moving on.

 

I like the straightforward design, because being a top loader, by nature, it maximizes space. The pack itself, is made from a rubberized plastic material that makes it nearly impervious to abrasions and as an added bonus, water proof. If you've ever squeezed in between a couple of large boulder's or shimmied across a windy face, you know what abrasions can do to a pack. I especially like the lean design of this pack because when climbing, you don't really know it's there. The hardened foam backing is a plus, once again (no items poke through), The wide shoulder straps and hip belt, help with weight distribution, spreading it  evenly across the entire hip area. I never feel tired from carrying my packs, just from the long trips. That, is due to pack choice.

 

Although this backpack has a compartment for a hydration bladder, that item is sold separately. If you like the utility and ease of a hydration pack, then by all means contact your nearest retailer and obtain one. Myself, I prefer hydration packs, as I hate seeing water bottles discarded along the trails. But, if you like, there are water bottle side pockets. Also, if you take a look at the picture, you will note the dual ice axe loops at the bottom of the daisy chain (which I call, carabiner's loops) Overall, a great pack for just about anything you decide to throw at it.  Make the right pack choice for the right usage and you'll always rest easy at the end of a long day's hike or climb. Stay safe out there and I'll see you on the trail.

 

Next up, will be my final post in this series on the Mountain Hardwear packs. Enjoy the great outdoors and I'll see you on the trail. ~ Campingman

Mountain Hardwear Lander Backpack

Good Morning,

Been out on the trail, doing some hunting as it is hunting season now in North America. It's kept me away from blogging but I am back for a few days. I want to continue our discussion on backpacks because I think it's important to get a variety of feedback on various packs before making your purchase. 

Mountain Hardwear Lander Backpack

       Today, we start our series on the Mountain Hardwear packs. Before we get going, did you notice the word 'wear' in the name? Well, that's because the folks who started this company, not only made the products, but used and wore the things they designed. It all began in Richmond, California in 1993, and they opened their first retail stores in Portland, Oregon and Seattle, Washington in April and December respectively, in 2008.

This pack is just one of many from Mountain Hardwear, but I chose it based upon it's versatile nature. It can be used as a camping backpack, a day pack for those short hikes in the country when you need to get away, or just plain carrying laptops and school books if that's all you want to do. It can even double as a travel pack. It has fully padded shoulder straps as well as a padded back panel. That means nothing poking you in the back as you hike!  It even has an internal sleeve, that will fit a 15" laptop (see I told you, that you could use it for that.)  Back to it's versatility, because THAT, is what makes this pack stand above the rest. 

It has tons of places on the exterior for hooking carabiner's as well as holding trekking poles, etc. It's two large main pockets, are big and roomy. There are enough organizer pockets to carry most anything you can stuff in there, from water bottles to flashlights. You'll find that this pack weighs about half of what other packs of the same general size weigh. This makes it a great pack for women or kids too. The hip belt is removable, (setting this pack apart from a comparable competitor's version).  Not carrying a large load? It even has cinch straps that can shrink it down if all you want to carry is something small like a raincoat. See... versatile. My wife especially likes this feature. 

Backpacks in this category are seldom waterproof, but I've been out in the rain with this pack, in excess of 30 minutes, and the interior remained dry. If you are going to use it in the rain a lot though, I would recommend waterproofing it or using a waterproof cover, neither of which is expensive.

Check this pack out, you won't be disappointed. Hike safely and I'll see you on the trail. ~ Campingman

CamelBak Highwire 20 3-Liter Hydration Backpack

CamelBak Highwire 20 3-Liter Hydration Backpack

As promised, the second in the CamelBak series, as we move to lightweight day packs. On a side note, CamelBak packs have consistently rated 9 out of the top ten hydration packs on the market! Not bad for a company that has only been marketing them since 1989.

This particular day pack, weighs in at just under 26 oz..At first glance, this pack looks just like a gazillion others out there, but over time, I have come to recognize and appreciate some of the subtle design elements that make up this bag. For instance, it incorporates an independent, perforated foam, suspension harness and a ventilated back panel. (breath ability) The light vertical ribs , transfer the weight from your shoulders, (so my back and shoulder's are not aching at the end of the day). Granted, this pack is only designed to carry 15-20 lbs, (but I exceed that at times) I find the access to the main compartment simple and easy, since I like a top load bag as opposed to all of those zippers and compartments on other style packs. I like the wide mesh side pockets, because they enable easy access to items you want to be able to get to quickly. (For me, that's a snack bar or bag of corn nuts)

This entire backpack is made from ultra-lightweight materials, but remains strong and durable. I have scraped it against rocks and trees while climbing, dropped it, slid it down the side of a rock face and it has withstood well. As in my previous blog about CamelBak hydration systems, this pak retains all of the patented technology from CamelBak and is no different, that is except that it carries a full 3 L of liquids as opposed to 2 L.

I like that the compartment for the hydration bag, is a separate and insulated pocket. The hose port is at top center, with hose-keeper loops on both shoulder straps. Thus, you choose which side you want to clip it to. For some reason, I like the left side. This is, and remains a great all around light pack. Some of the actual features of this backpack that I discussed, are listed along with their trademark and/or patented technology.

BACK PANEL: Lightweight Ventilated™

HARNESS: Independent Suspension™ with perforated foam and Slider™ Sternum Strap
BELT: Removable 1 in (25 mm) stability

Additional Features: Four point compression straps, side pockets, tool attachment, sunglasses pocket, all designed to carry extra layers of clothing, rain gear, food, head lamp, trail maps, ice axe, trekking poles and yes trekkies....even an MP3 or GPS.

That's it for today, next entry: Mountain Hardwear packs. Good hiking and I'll see you on the trail. - Campingman

Backpack choices and uses

Backpack choices and uses

I thought I would expand on my breakdowns of backpacks. There are, as we all know, a gazillion choices, so how to make the right one? Back to basics, choose the pack for the territory you intend to use it. Whether that be a hydration style pack for stand up board paddling, to carrying your laptop and books, climbing a mountain, days long "pack trips" or just a light day pack. This next series is going to start with hydration packs and move to school style to trail style, etc, so let's get going. Fist up?  The Camelbak series backpacks.

CamelBak Baja LR Hydration Backpack

I start with this, because if you ever wanted the 'GoTo' pack, when windsurfing (like on the Columbia River), or paddle boarding your favorite river? This is a great choice. You can see from it's mesh design, you'll hardly know it's there. The hydration pack alone, carries a full 2 L of liquid, and if you look, the pack is down on your hips, and off of your shoulders. That makes sense, because it doesn't inhibit your freedom of movement. The bladder itself features the patented  HydroGuard™ anti-microbial technology, coupled with a patented PureFlow™ taste-free tube and the patented Big Bite™ valve. All of them, easy to use and easy to clean. Instructions are included.

This backpack, with it's custom fit harness, ( using hook-and-loop adjustments ), the dual Slider Sternum Straps, the open mesh back design, well, they just ensure the Baja has a good fit. Toss in some of the 'extra' features, like a paddle holster, a couple of cargo pockets, including a safety whistle? Well, it allows you to keep essentials within easy reach. Including a waterproof electronics case. You even have room to carry one of your own personal, inflatable, flotation devices as well as sunscreen and a light jacket if you wanted. A versatile choice for a light pack with hydration capabilities and waterproof storage.

Oh one last thing....would you like to know how they started? As the story goes, Michael Eidson, an emergency medical technician, was competing in a bike race in Texas. He knew that there were few places with water in this grueling 100 mile race. His solution? He filled an IV bag with water, slipped it inside a tube sock. He then stuffed it in the back of his jersey, throwing the hose over his shoulder and clamping it to his shirt with a clothespin. The rest is history and remember:  "The CamelBak Got Your Bak™ Lifetime Guarantee" is from a Petaluma, California Company.

That's it for today, more CamelBak in my next post. Thanks for reading and I'll see you on the trail. - Campingman