Hardcore Outdoor is dedicated to those who won't or can't turn back."

You have always been able to count on Hardcore Outdoor for the straight scoop on great gear and that will never change.  To that end I want to shift focus a little and spend some more time on one of my other interests which is wilderness search and rescue work.  If you are new to the site please see the BIOGRAPHY section for more information about my background in this area.  While I did not intentionally neglect SAR, I have spent most of my time here on hiking, backpacking and hunting.  I hope to remedy that slight starting with this post. 

I can talk about great gear all day long and give you lists of recommendations but it won't do you much good unless you know an equally worthy place to purchase that gear.  Case in point, The Outdoorsmans in Phoenix is where I send people for all sport optics and accessories.  Why?  Because the product knowledge and customer service is excellent and the feedback I get from readers bears that out over and over again.  Coincidently, about a mile North of The Outdoorsmans on Cave Creek Road is a place called The Arizona Hiking Shack.  "The Shack", as it is known locally, is something of a landmark because it has been in the same location and serving backpackers, rock climbers and river runners since 1974.  In a time of self serve, impersonal, big box retail they are well known for their expertise in boot and pack fitting.   

The owner of The Shack is a man named Dale Stewart whom I have known for many years.  I will refer you to the "About Us" page of his website for a more detailed biography but let's just say that Dale has forgotten more than most of us will ever know about gear and banging around in the backcountry.  Because of that depth of knowledge Dale has developed a relationship with numerous prominent public safety agencies, including Phoenix Fire and the Arizona Department of Public Safety, that has evolved well beyond vendor and into instructor/adviser.  Several years ago Dale started a separate entity called AHS Rescue to concentrate on and better serve his industrial, commercial and public safety customers.  

As always, based on my experience, I will recommend what I feel is best in class search and rescue equipment but the place to buy it is AHS Rescue.  I can assure you that you will not get better customer service anywhere.

Thanks.

Wade Nelson
Editor

Sorting through the fads and fashion of the outdoor equipment industry to identify and promote the very best wilderness gear for high end recreational users, backcountry professionals and government agencies.