HARDCORE OUTDOOR-GEAR REVIEWS AND RECOMMENDATIONS FOR HUNTING, HIKING, SEARCH AND RESCUE, MILITARY

Coop Is Back!

2012-05-17T18:02:41Z

Dr. J. Hunt Udall, Pediatric Orthopedic Surgeon, and Cooper Nelson at his six month post surgery exam. They are all smiles because Coop got a clean bill of health and is 100% good to go out and do whatever it is that 13 year old boys do.

This is not gear related but I wanted to take a minute to publicly thank Dr. Udall for doing such a great job on my son.

ACL injuries in adolescent kids are relatively uncommon so we did a lot of research and met with a half dozen specialists to find one that would give him the best chance at the best possible outcome. Dr. Udall came highly recommended and he did not disappoint. Great attitude, outstanding care, open and forthcoming with information about diagnosis and options, and just an all around good guy that inspired confidence. Ask him a hard question and you get a thorough, straight forward answer that helps a parent make good decisions. Press him a little more for what he would do if it was his kid and he will look you in the eye and tell you what he thinks. That is refreshingly candid. Thanks Doc.

I would also like to thank the staff at Fit Life slash Metro Physical Therapy in Scottsdale. We have a long history with these folks and they did great work, as usual.

Lastly, congratulations to Cooper. He made the best of a tough situation. He did everything he was supposed to do in this long process and while I know he didn't enjoy it, I can't remember him complaining once. Well done son, now go get 'em.

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.

We can be educated and persuaded but not bought, bullied or bs'd.

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

News - Arizona Unit 22 Is Burning - The Sunflower Fire

2012-05-14T22:04:55Z

The Sunflower fire in Central Arizona is between Fountain Hills and Payson, Arizona on the West side of Highway 87 about 10 miles South of Highway 188. This is my playground.

Much of my hunting, search and rescue, and field work over the past 25 plus years has been done in unit 22 so it is an area I know very well. I have witnessed many fires here during those years and unfortunately we have another one called the Sunflower Fire immediately North of Sunflower on the West side of Highway 87.

The Tonto Forest guys on scene are telling me that it is currently rated at 3100 acres but it is 85 degrees and the wind is blowing 5 to 15 miles per hour which means this is going to get much worse before it gets any better. Hopefully it won't be a monster.

At this time, it is burning Southwest towards Saddle Mountain and Northwest towards Mazatzal Peak.  The big Sky Crane helo was dropping water most of the morning and there are of course ground crews working lines but no big fixed wing tankers yet.

More from the scene later.

UPDATE - By the end of the day we were up to 4600 acres but still no tankers. More resources were coming in as I left, maybe they can get this thing knocked down and contained in a day of two. If not it could burn all the way up to Payson and over to Bartlett Lake and the river. That would be a bummer.

Temperatures drop, the wind dies and the fire lays down when the sun sets.

I have seen green Rattlesnakes and even reddish pink ones but I have not seen this dark dress shoe brown before.

Only a few feet long but he had a descent set of rattles on him.

UPDATE - 5/16/12 - The fire is up to 12,000 acres now with only 7% containment. Here is the official incident website with the most up to date information and map. Two interesting things mentioned in the stats. Under GROWTH POTENTIAL it reads "Extreme" and for TERRAIN DIFFICULTY it says "Extreme, terrain is steep and rugged". I have been over every inch of that area and even the word extreme seems like an understatement. Fighting fire in that country in that heat is about as tough as it gets.

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.

We can be educated and persuaded but not bought, bullied or bs'd.

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

Are You Out Of Your Mind? - Americans Hunting In Mexico

2012-05-10T21:04:58Z

Bullet riddled police cars and headless corpses are not the stuff of great Mexican tourism campaigns but it is a reality you better consider when planning a trip south of the border. Mexico has become a very dangerous place.

I have been meaning to write this post for a long time. I've been to Mexico many times and absolutely agree that there are some beautiful places and hospitable people there but I have zero interest in venturing south now for any reason whatsoever...given the current environment.

Why? Google "mexico murders news", go to the U.S. State Department website to read the travel warnings, call any international security firm for a threat assessment on Americans of means traveling in Mexico and tell me what you find. It is dangerous folks. People are being murdered, beheaded and mutilated then put on display, by the thousands. That's why.

50,000 people have been killed in Mexico in the last six years and it is all over drugs slash human smuggling slash power but the violence has not been confined to just criminals in isolated areas. It is happening to tourists in resort towns, the so called safe areas, too.

Oh, I know that a guy is going to personally meet you at the border, escort you through the crossing process then drive you and all your guns slash gear safely to the ranch. And I know you know guys that have hunted that ranch for years with no problems. And I know that taking trophy class deer in Mexico is like shooting fish in a barrel. Yea, yea, yea, that all sounds wonderful but I ain't going because while the guides and the ranch staff might be pure as the new driven snow they are not the only ones that will know you are an American with money on a hunting trip and that my dear reader makes you a target. An easy one.

Let me 'splain this to you as clearly as I can. Any American that crosses into Mexico is a target, now more than ever. So, if you ignore the warnings, if common sense does not prevail and you decide to go anyway, here is an acronym you should become very familiar with. AMFYOYO (Adios My Friend You're On Your Own).

Find somewhere in this country or Canada to hunt. You will be a lot safer.

UPDATE - 5/14/12 - I knew I was going to take some heat on this post but everyday brings me a new headline that justifies my position. Another 49 headless, handless, and feetless bodies were found today outside of Montery.

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.

We can be educated and persuaded but not bought, bullied or bs'd.

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

Book - Complete Guide To Outdoor Gear Maintenance And Repair

2012-05-09T21:50:50Z

Backpacker Magazine and its Gear Editor Krisitin Hostetter have a new book out that puts a lot of practical information about taking care of your gear in one easy to access place.

"The way I see it, there are two types of hikers: those who love gear with a slightly bizarre passion (aka "Gearheads") and those who barely acknowledge its existence" is how Kristin Hostetter begins her latest book. I agree but would add that Gearheads can be further broken down into two groups: those that just dig gear and those that rely on it because their life slash mission depends on the performance slash safety edge great gear provides them. Either way, if you are a regular visitor to this site then you are a Gearhead too so you will need to get a copy of this book and add it to your library.

I have aired my issues regarding Backpacker Magazine and its gear reviews slash recommendations relative to business relationships with advertisers here before but the truth is that I am a long time, avid reader. I don't agree with everything I see on their pages but it is a solid publication that serves a large readership well.

This book is what it says it is, a helpful guide to keeping your outdoor equipment in good working order whether you are in the field or back at base. Check it out.

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.

We can be educated and persuaded but not bought, bullied or bs'd.

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

Training The Afghans - Jumping Jacks - YouTube Video

2012-05-08T22:56:57Z

This video has been around for a while but it still makes me laugh. I feel bad for the American soldiers that are charged with the responsibility of training they guys. It appears Afghani men don't have much "John Wayne" in them.

Yea, I know the military history of the region but then again our forces have never been let completely off the leash and given a free hand to do what they do best there so the win slash loss tally doesn't really mean much to me.

Enjoy.

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.

We can be educated and persuaded but not bought, bullied or bs'd.

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

GREAT GEAR RECOMMENDATION - Arborwear Ascender Pants

2012-04-29T02:32:41Z

Although I have been referring to them in my raw field notes as the Arborwear Stretch Tech Pants they are now known as the Ascender Pant but everything else is still the same which is to say, outstanding. I love them.

A good pair of pants is like a great dog, a beautiful woman or a chilled shot of Crown. Whoa, nevermind, there is no way I can pull that one off without getting in some kind of trouble with somebody. Anyway, everybody gotta wear pants out there right, butt (pun intended), oddly enough, really good ones are hard to find.

I have already awarded Arborwear a GGR for their Original Tree Climbers' Pant. They replaced my cotton canvas Carhartts because they were more comfortable, cut better and just plain easier to move in. However, I am a huge fan of Tweave type synthetic fabrics in pants because they are ultra tough, water resistant, stretchy, light and breathable which just happens to be the same reasons I like the Arborwear Ascender Pants.

The Ascender Pants fka Stretch Tech Pants have become my go to field pants for almost everything. I have used them in the snow, triple digit heat and everything in between for weeks at a time without any babying whatsoever. They are tough as nails yet comfy as yoga pants or as comfortable as I think yoga pants would be if I actually owned any.

The pocket set on these is outstanding. At first I was irritated that there was only one BDU style thigh cargo pocket but I have grown to like the little pocket on my right leg because it fits my iPhone perfectly. The lower legs have zippers and velcro cinch straps which is great when you are sitting slash laying on the ground and trying to keep the creepy crawlies out. The Ascender Pants have internal suspender loops in addition to sturdy belt loops. They also have a protective fabric covering over the knees that doesn't seem to make them any warmer even when I am working hard or the weather is hot.

Like I said, these pants are very comfortable, super durable and my favorite field pants. My only gripe is that Arborwear isn't offering them in a coyote tan or foliage green...yet.

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.

We can be educated and persuaded but not bought, bullied or bs'd.

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

Phase 2

2012-04-28T01:00:53Z

Time to celebrate.

We have finished the site improvements, reached some important traffic milestones and moved into a new phase with this whole thing so I suppose it is OK to cut loose a little. Like I needed an excuse.

Thanks again to all of you who make, sell, and use great gear. Keep it up!

By the way, awhile back I asked you all what charities I should support through this site. Thank you for the responses. I decided to go with the Mountain Rescue Association, The Navy SEAL Foundation, and the Special Operations Warrior Foundation. If you scroll down you will see links to their websites on the left side panel, I hope you will support them every chance you get and encourage others to do the same. They are good people serving good causes worthy of your attention.

So, stick around boys, we are gonna do some cool things with some interesting people and take this to the next level.

Foxrider out.

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.

We can be educated and persuaded but not bought, bullied or bs'd.

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

GREAT GEAR RECOMMENDATION - Nalgene Water Bottles And Cantenes

2012-04-26T21:37:22Z

My trusted standbys. Nalgene water bottles and Cantene bags in varying capacities.

It is a fact of life and a harsh reality of the backcountry, humans need water to survive and they need lots of water regularly to perform at peak levels.

Water is essential for the kind of things we do and hard to find in the places we do it so the containers we carry it in are just as important. I have been using Nalgene bottles and bags since 1990 and I am a very, very satisfied customer. They come in various sizes, don't retain or pass along any tastes or smells, are almost indestructable and most important to me, they don't leak. Not a drop which, as you can understand, is especially important when I am using my trusty pee bottle.

I know some people like the translucent hard bottles but I still like the original style opague, wide mouth, round top models in 32 or 48 ounce sizes. I also Like the Cantene bags for certain situations.

How much you carry is up to you and the circumstances but you absolutely have to have water and you can't afford to let it leak out. I use and recommend Nalgene bottles and bags, they have never let me down.

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.

We can be educated and persuaded but not bought, bullied or bs'd.

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

GREAT GEAR RECOMMENDATION - Ruger LCP - Best Small Concealed Carry Pistol

2012-04-24T21:42:23Z

The Ruger LCP in .380 Auto is about as light and low profile as possible while still being practical and effective.

I am a big Smith & Wesson J frame fan for backup or off duty concealed carry guns but nothing lays as flat as a small semi-auto when you are on your time. I have used a Kel-Tec for this purpose but I have to tell you that I was never really 100% confident in it's ability to do what I wanted it to do when I needed it to do it.

Case in point. I was on the range at the Scottsdale Gun Club with a client and after four rounds the main pin came out and landed on the floor. I sent it to Robar for a coating and tune up job hoping that would make me feel a little better about the pistol. It must not have helped too much because when Ruger came out with the LCP, which is about the same size, I jumped all over it and have been happier ever since.

The LCP has a capacity of 6+1, weighs 9.4 ounces (with an empty mag), and measures 5.16 inches, 3.6 high, and .82 inches wide. Best of all it shoots every time I pull the trigger and at 25 feet seems to put everything close enough on a man size target to do the job.

You can get bigger, more powerful and greater accuracy but I don't think you can beat this little pistol for concealability and dependability which is what I am mostly looking for when I am out and about around town.

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.

We can be educated and persuaded but not bought, bullied or bs'd.

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

GREAT GEAR RECOMMENDATION - Julbo Bivouac Sunglasses - Best Mountaineering Glasses

2012-04-20T22:20:50Z

Julbo Bivouac Sunglasses for extreme conditions are shown here with the protective side panels in place.

These Julbo Bivouac Sunglasses have Spectron 4 mirrored lenses (maximum protection against harsh light), front ventilation slots, matte black frames with bendable ear pieces and removable "wings" at the temples that are held in place by magnets so they can be quickly put on or taken off.

While they don't have the panache of the old Micropores the Bivouacs are my favorite snow Skiing slash mountaineering sunglasses. They also work great in the desert or on the beach.

Basically, anytime I need strong protection from bright light, the Bivouacs are the glasses I choose to use.

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.

We can be educated and persuaded but not bought, bullied or bs'd.

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

Helicopter Rappel Pictures

2012-04-20T00:52:52Z

These are scans of old school SLR camera prints. Now days everybody is using helmet mounted GoPro Hero 2 cameras to get super cool video with sound. That would have been nice to have then but I like to post some of these every now and then just to remind myself how far we have come in a short time.

Rapping out of an Arizona DPS Air Rescue helicopter. It is a lot harder than it looks especially when you are as big and clumsy as I am but I never had any complaints from the pilots. I am pretty sure that is Mel Hoffman at the controls of the old Bell 206L3 version of Ranger 41. Note that I am going down between the side of the ship and the skid tube. We did practice going over the skid and inverting but this was our preferred method.

About a quarter of the way down to the ground and just starting to feel the heat. At about 230lbs and trying to go as fast as I could without being out of control my hands always got hot and sometimes burned when using a full size Rescue 8. I could have used thicker gloves but I never felt like I had as much control so I just dealt with it. Now they use the big SRTE Noworries descent devices.

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.

We can be educated and persuaded but not bought, bullied or bs'd.

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

Thank You Go Daddy

2012-04-19T04:08:28Z

Unless you guys have been hitting the sauce too hard you have undoubtedly noticed the remodeled website. Granted, anything would be an improvement over what I put together but I really want to thank the graphic designers at Go Daddy. They are easy to deal with, do good work, and don't charge an arm and a leg for it.

We aren't quite done yet but close. If you have an idea and want to put it out on the world wide web Go Daddy is a pretty damn good way to get it done. If I can do it, anybody can but I certainly could not have done all this without them.

Thanks Bob, George and of course the lovely Danica.

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.

We can be educated and persuaded but not bought, bullied or bs'd.

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

Casio G'Zone Commando Cellular Telephone - Ruggedized Smartphone

2012-04-18T05:21:59Z

Cell phones are a major league pain in the neck when it comes to kids. When is it appropriate to give them one, what packages do you sign them up for, what kind of phone do you get them and then the question to get insurance or not and what kind.

Well, I am not going to get into the parenting issues with you here but if you are about to hand an expensive smartphone to a minor who will be on your cellular telephone plan I have a suggestion for you. This is not my first rodeo and I have the bumps, bruises, and 4 digit Verizon bills to prove it. Between the five of us we have gone through a couple dozen phones over the past five years but the one that is the hardest, by far, on them is my son, Cooper.

For a number of reasons phones just don't last very long around him. Out of principle I usually make him use whatever is left of the wounded device for a few months but this last time it was almost nine months until I got him another one. Three days later he took a spill while riding his long board to a friends house and destroyed it so I vowed to find a phone that was designed and built for hard use. Something functional but rugged. In short, something Cooperproof. I think we found it.

The Commando from Casio is a modern smartphone with all the features you expect from an Android phone but it is wrapped in a hard rubber form factor that meets military standards for dust, water, vibration, temperature, shock and salt. It isn't indestructible but it is a whole bunch tougher than my iPhone.

Measuring 5 inches tall by 2.5 inches wide the Commando is not small but it isn't too big either. Given the rough and tumble nature of its target market the size is an acceptable tradeoff.

The backside of the Commando houses the 5mp camera lens.

The Casio Commando works well for all the things we consider common place today. Email, texting, taking pictures, updating Facebook and even making calls. Performance has been good all the way around so far (6 months) with this telephone and it has certainly held up to everything a very active teenage boy can dish out.

Cooper is not the only one that is tough on his phone, Captain Schamadan is also on a first name basis with his local Verizon store rep. He switched to the Commando a couple of months before Cooper and his is still going strong too.

There you have it, the Casio Commando passes both the teenage boy and Phoenix Fire Ladder Captain durability tests which is good enough for me.

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.

We can be educated and persuaded but not bought, bullied or bs'd.

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

Raw Notes From The Field - Four Peaks Wilderness

2012-04-16T19:33:48Z

7657 foot browns peak is the tallest of the four and offers a 360 degree view of central az

looking east across roosevelt lake to the sierra ancha range

back to the northwest

four peaks is perhaps the most prominent and representative feature of central arizona. i have spent a lot of time in this wilderness area over the years both for recreation and official business. it's difficult to describe just how big, rugged, and dense this place really is. no wonder why it is well populated with black bear, mountain lion, coues deer, mule deer, turkey, and coyotes.

i negotiated the 18 miles of winding, climbing dirt roads without incident to reach lone pine trail head although it seemed like every atv in the county was out doing a very poor impression of parnelli jones. what is this, the baja 1000? come on people, relax.

what a beautiful day on the mountain. it was about 55 degrees, the sun was out but there was a strong breeze and patches of snow still on the ground. i left the pickup with the following

my new black diamond elliptic contour trekking pole
hanwag cheyenne gtx boots
danner flashpoint otc wool socks
under armour 6 inch boxer briefs
under armour long sleeve t-shirt
arborwear stretch tech pants
yates uniform rappel belt
rei active stretch zip t-neck heavy weight base layer
road id slim
hardcore outdoor blaze orange ball cap
storm whistle
benchmade auto folder
bandanna
mini sharpee
index cards
iphone 4
banana boat lip balm
keys
vortex viper hd 6x32 binoculars
camelbak linchpin day pack with 100 ounces of water in the omega water beast bladder

in the pack
hill people gear chest pack with my wilderness emergency kit (wek)
hanz nomex gloves
marmot precip jacket
patagonia micro puff jacket and stuff sack
wilderness athlete hydrate and recover single use packets
costco trail mix snack packs
petzl e+lite headlamp
surefire g2x pro flashlight

i have gotten my system fine tuned to the point of near perfection. i could change some of these items out for others that would perform equally as well but none would be better. i could have hiked all day and handled an uexpected overnight bivy with no problem. my little load out was just right.

took the el oso road down to the butcher hook for a burger and then home.

Helicopter Rescue Video - Now On YouTube

2012-04-14T01:35:40Z

I have not done much rescue related material on this site yet but I thought you all might enjoy this video. It is one of the last missions I did before retiring altogether from rescue work. I had my fun, 14 years was enough.

I was actually off duty when I was special called to meet Fox 1, the Maricopa County Sheriff's Office Bell 407, at the Scottsdale Municipal Airport.  I got the page about 4:30pm. This was not all that uncommon. Not only was I the Division's Rescue Training Coordinator, I was also it's only SAR Tech-EMT. Normally in these off duty situations I would get dressed and drive to wherever I was meeting the bird.  This time was a little different because my wife and kids wanted to drive me to the airport to save me some time and see me off.  Big mistake.

There are three stop lights between my house and the airport and my wife, the finest most law abiding person I know, blew through two bright red ones like we were going to a fire. The kids were yelling, my radio was blaring, and I was trying to get my gear on all while my soccer mom wife was doing her best Danica Patrick impression in a Chevy Suburban. Fortunately, we made it there in one piece.  A little frazzled, I was happy to climb inside the helicopter...where it was safe.

The crew had already been to the call which was in the Canyon Lake area but went back to the hangar for the short haul gear and to pick me up. The Apache Junction Fire Department engine company on scene was not helo qualified and we had not trained with them so a decision was made to do the short haul aka long line aka sling load operation with just our people. Two of AJ's bravest had already hiked in to reach, treat and stabilize the patient, a woman who had gotten lost while rock hunting. As you will see in the video, she was in a very bad place. I have no idea how that woman ended up where she did. It was late summer, hot, and there was a monsoon rolling in from the North. She was not doing well at all. In fact, the firefighters were unable to start an IV because she was so dehydrated and that's not good.

My job was to rig the ship, ride the line into the scene, package the patient in a Bauman Bag and then ride the line back out to the landing zone where we would transfer the patient to a waiting ambulance. The ambulance would deliver the patient to an air ambulance that was waiting at another landing zone down the road.

This is the Bauman Bag with me hanging free from the hoist in the attendant position. It was our policy to attend all live loads. From this position, while hanging 50 to 125 feet below the helicopter, I could talk to the patient, monitor and manage their airway and "fly the load" with my arms to keep the whole package from spinning. The system works very well but it is high risk.

The duty crew on this mission was Pilot and CFI Josh Johnson and Flight Technician Observer Kevin Kraayenbrink. Two of the nicest guys on the planet. If you look closely on the video, you can see Kevin's bare legs sticking out the side of the passenger compartment. He is laying sideways and face down on the aft bench seat so he can see what I am doing and make rude hand gestures. For some reason both he and Josh were wearing shoorts instead of their Superman suits.  Task assignments are as follows: Josh flys. Kevin watches, talks to me on the radio, Josh on the intercom and directs the whole thing. I make sure that one end of the load line is securely attached to the helicopter and the other to my harness and the patient then try to make it through the ride without wetting my pants.

The picture on the left is me looking around for somebody dumber than me that could be talked into doing this. On the right, I am trying to decide between mexican and chinese food afterwords.  Airborne SAR Techs travel pretty light especially when you are as heavy as I am, have a light single engine helo and typically fly in high temps and low humidity. The Tactical Tailor Utility Vest allowed me to carry two radios, a sat phone, 100oz of water and basic survival and EMS gear.  Note the attachment point for the Petzl 8003 harness under my suit.  Such a kind face.

As the "load" or "dope on the rope" for a whole bunch of these operations I can tell you that there are crews that are good at long line work and crews that are not. These guys are very, very good. Watch how smoothly they move me around, how gently they set me down and how quickly they address and correct a pendulum swing. That is finesse. That is talent.

Long story short. We got the patient. She went to the hospital and lived. Then we all went back to whatever it was that we were doing.

Another successful mission. Ha! We cheated death again. That is ace Pilot Josh Johnson and me on the pad at what was known then as station 700. Kevin Kraayenbrink is behind the camera. I miss working with those guys. I don't miss smelling like jet fuel exhaust all the time.

The guys at TV 3 were nice enough to give me the raw video and then we had it converted. It's a good video but the web process degrades the quality quite a bit and speeds it up. Trust me, we weren't flying that fast and Josh is a much smoother pilot than it seems on the web version of the video. Click here for the YouTube video.

UPDATE - One of the items on my to do list was to convert this video footage and upload it to my YouTube channel. Today I finally got it done. Not my best work, I see a couple of mistakes but it is still interesting to watch and marvel at just how good the guys in the bird are. Foxrider out.

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.

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

Barber Shop Wisdom - "Never Forget"

2012-04-13T23:14:58Z

Words of wisdom from the front window of our favorite barber shop in Coronado, home of the West Coast SEALs.

Every once in a while I like to lay a little something on you that makes you think. Something that stimulates the gray matter. For as long as I can remember this sign has hung in the front window of the barber shop we frequent in Coronado. It has always struck me as incredibly poignant but highly controversial especially in todays politically correct and severely fractured society.

I like to sit on the bench next to the sign while Cooper gets his hair cut and study the reactions of the people leisurely strolling the sidewalk that stop to read it. Then we go to Danny's for a couple Helo burgers.

Thanks for coming by.

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.

We can be educated and persuaded but not bought, bullied or bs'd.

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

GREAT GEAR RECOMMENDATION - Upgrade - Petzl Tikka XP2 Headlamp

2012-04-12T20:07:30Z

Brighter with longer burn time. I am upgrading my headlamps but sticking with the same brand. Petzl. Here is a close up of the Petzl Tikka XP2.

Another solid headlamp from Petzl. This Tikka XP2 replaces my trusty Tikka 2 Plus units because it puts out more light and uses less power while maintaining almost exactly the same form factor (that means size and shape for us Duck Dynasty fans). One of the things I like about this line of headlamps from Petzl is that they are streamlined and sit close to my head so they don't feel like they are hanging out and moving around on my head. They also don't affect my vision with that weird aura slash tunnel of light beam effect you get with some other brands.

Additional features like water resistance, lithium battery capability (better for cold weather and are 30% lighter than alkalines), dedicated red LED, multiple light output levels, and strobe function are all part of the XP2 package.

Not much more needs to be said. I think this is the best headlamp in its class and it is my pick for all around carry and use.

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.

We can be educated and persuaded but not bought, bullied or bs'd.

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

GREAT GEAR RECOMMENDATION - Orotovox 3+ Avalanche Transceiver

2012-04-11T22:05:44Z

The Ortovox 3+ Avalanche beacon unpacked. Owners manual, connected case slash harness and the unit.

This is a complex subject fraught with a great deal of data and technical terminology but the fact that you should absolutely positively be wearing one when working in snow at grade is pretty basic. Despite all my avalanche training I still don't feel like I have a good handle on assessing risk so I make sure that I take proper precautions and always error on the conservative side. That means wearing an avalanche beacon, carrying a probe and shovel whenever I am in conditions that offer even the slightest chance of producing a slide. I don't want to get caught short whether it is for me or somebody else.

By the way, all my avi gear comes from Ortovox.

All packed up, the 3+ will take up very little room in your luggage slash pack and at just 11 ounces you will barely know that you are wearing it. No excuses, strap on.

As I said there is a lot that goes into evaluating these devices and more than I really want to get into here. However, you should know that the 3+ is a modern, top of the line unit from a reputable company that has been in the avalanche safety business for a very long time. This particular model uses three antennas, is relatively easy to use (although it requires familiarization and practice), has upgradable software, is durable, and dependable.

The bottom line here is that I need an avalanche beacon and the one I chose to purchase and the one I recommend is the Ortovox 3+. Get one, learn how to use it, practice with it, keep a fresh battery in it, and wear it if you think there is any chance at all that you might need it.

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.

We can be educated and persuaded but not bought, bullied or bs'd.

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

MeatEater's Steve Rinella and Cody Nelson Talk Coues Deer Hunting In Arizona

2012-04-06T22:00:03Z

Here is a video I just found of Steve Rinella and my brother Cody, Brand Manager for Wilderness Athlete, discussing his Arizona Unit 32 Coues Deer hunt. I spent a couple of days in the field with them but wasn't there when Steve filled the tag. Good little video though they didn't get the better looking of the two Nelson boys on film. Goff and I were actually spotting deer from different ridges not fiddle farting around playing Joe Hollywood with the camera crew.

Check it out.

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.

We can be educated and persuaded but not bought, bullied or bs'd.

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

Black Diamond Trekking Poles - Contour Elliptic Adjustable

2012-04-05T21:15:18Z

I have been a big fan of trekking poles for a long time. They help drive me forward, they act as a third leg in uneven terrain, they are great snake movers, they can be used for splinting or as a crutch, and when properly accessorised they help with signaling. I have had many types from many manufacturers but my favorites have been made by Black Diamond.

My current two piece, adjustable models are also from BD and have given me many years of reliable service. However, they are getting a little long in the tooth and they do not fit in my big Pelican 1660 Cases so I needed to pick up a replacement set that do. Black Diamond was of course the first place I looked.

My new Black Diamond Contour Elliptic Adjustable Trekking Poles (in the collapsed position) all decked out with SOLAS reflective tape, duct tape, double sided velcro straps, ID info, and 550 cord. You can also see that the handles are canted forward slightly for long term comfort. I like that.

These new poles are made from aluminum and have an elliptical shape, that means oblong or oval for you Duck Dynasty fans, which adds strength and rigidity while keeping the weight down. I considered the cork handled models but ultimately chose the foam ones instead. These come with trail tips, trail and snow baskets, and hand straps that I promptly cut off.

One of the reasons I like BD poles is the adjustment mechanism which they call Flicklocks. They are easy to use even with gloved hands, very durable and mine have always held the set position. In switching from a two piece to a three piece model I can close these down short enough to fit in my Pelican travel cases which is a big deal because I never go into the field without at least one trekking pole. These adjust from 30 to 55 inches overall and that works perfectly for me. Now if I could just find an ice axe with an adjustable shaft.

Anyway, if you don't use trekking poles give 'em a try, especially when humping extraordinarily heavy loads, I think you will agree that they are very useful. These Black Diamonds are the ones I like best.

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.

We can be educated and persuaded but not bought, bullied or bs'd.

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

Duck Dynasty - Cable TV Show

2012-04-04T18:23:00Z

The new show "Duck Dynasty" is about the Robertson family of Louisiana and their successful businesses, Duck Commanders and Buck Commanders. It's pretty entertaining.

Have you guys seen this show? Laugh out loud funny with a strong family message. I like it and so do my kids. Finally, a good TV show about people that hunt even if they do look like a bunch of vagrants. It's almost as funny as me and Scham on the beach, but not quite.

I don't know what day it airs but it is on A&E. Check it out.

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.

We can be educated and persuaded but not bought, bullied or bs'd.

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

United States Air Force Pararescue Insignia - PJs

2012-04-01T19:53:16Z

The top of the SAR family tree. PJs are some of the most highly trained assets in the entire U.S. Military. EMT-Paramedics, dive and free fall jump qualified, SERE, advanced small arms and tactical training, and all weather slash all terrain capable. The Pipeline or "Superman School" runs about two years in total to mint a new PJ and has a wash out rate of 90%. You don't get any more elite than this.

Salomon 4D Quest GTX Boots

2012-03-31T17:02:18Z

Field testing the Salomon Quest 4D GTX boots. 4D does not refer to the width.

If you have been wondering why I have not posted much on boots lately it is for the simple reason that I have not had much to report. I have been very happy with the boots that I have given a GREAT GEAR RECOMMENDATION and while I am always looking I haven't seen anything I thought could displace anything on the existing list. Until now.

I have heard from a fair number of my .mil readers on deployment that they have had good luck with this Salomon boot. I have also had requests for advice on a boot that falls somewhere between the Lowa Renagade GTX and the Lowa Ranger GTX. The Hanwag Cheyenne GTX is such a boot but these guys were looking for more of a fastpacking boot, something with a trailrunner structure to it. I think these might work.

The Salomon Explorer GTX was a pretty good boot, it was a little narrow for my 11.5US medium to wide feet, but Scham loved 'em and pretty much wore them out on trails of the Phoenix Mountain Preserve. HOWEVER, they no longer produce that boot so I got a set of these in size 12US.

I wish they made a wide version but we'll see how these do for me.

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.

We can be educated and persuaded but not bought, bullied or bs'd.

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

The Truth About The War In Afghanistan - Michael Yon

2012-03-30T19:47:15Z

A casualty is loaded onto an Army medical helicopter at night in Afghanistan. Michael Yon is there, on the ground and telling the truth about what is really going on there. Well done, keep up the good work.

I get a lot of email everyday from you and many of the addresses end in .gov or .mil and some of the things I learn from them would make you throw up. While I will never betray those confidences there are ways to find out what is really going on. In Afghanistan your best source is Michael Yon. He is an independent, unbiased journalist that tells it like it is. My kind of newsman.

Check out his work and if you like it please consider supporting what he does by sending him some money. I did.

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.

We can be educated and persuaded but not bought, bullied or bs'd.

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

Heads Up To Regular Hardcore Outdoor Readers - Website Changes

2012-03-30T18:47:14Z

Hey everybody, just wanted to give you a heads up that I have been working with the good folks at Go Daddy to tune up this site. Nothing earth shaking but we needed a new look and a few other administrative fixes that make the management process easier on me. I am not exactly sure when the changes will go live but it will be in the next few days so please keep that in mind and expect a couple wrinkles that will have to be ironed out.

Thank you for your continued support.

Wade

Bear Spray Isn't Just Good For Bears - UDAP Bear Deterrent Spray

2012-03-27T19:14:53Z

UDAP Bear Deterrent spray comes in three sizes. Regular, Magnum and Super Magnum. I carry the Super Magnum because when I need it, I want as much as I can get. If you are in bear country, bear spray had better be part of your bear plan but it works for other threats too.

I was on a plane coming home from a business trip a few weeks ago, the SWA flight was only about half full so there was a seat between me and the guy sitting in the aisle seat. I noticed my row mate stealing a few long glances at what I was reading, a tactical rifle magazine. After about 45 minutes the guy leans over and starts talking to me. I had my Beats plugged into my iPhone and in my ears but I wasn't listening to anything, I am not real chatty when I fly. Anyway, I pulled the earbuds out and asked him to repeat what he said.

Turns out he had just bought a house and moved to Phoenix and wanted to buy a gun to protect his family. He didn't say from what but he did say that his wife was completely against the idea. He was going to insist though. I was thinking yea, I bet that you are going to insist until she puts her foot down then the discussion is over. I walked him through all the usual stuff about don't get a gun unless you also get and maintain the appropriate training to go with it. I told him that a gun was a tool but a tool that carried with it a tremendous responsibility and a lot of risk. Risk of liability, injury, death and prison time if things go the wrong way.

The more we talked the more obvious to me it was that while this guy meant well, he had no business buying, owning and keeping a gun in the house. He just didn't have the mindset. Could he acquire the right mindset? Under the right circumstances, yea maybe but it would require a big, long term commitment and even then there was no guarantee. So I talked him into buying a couple of cans of UDAP Bear Deterrent spray. If a bad guy breaks into the house, you hose him down real good with the bear spray, lock the family in the bedroom, dial 911 and wait for the good guys to come take out the garbage. He seemed both surprised and relieved at the same time. I think it was good advice.

A few days later I was talking with a friend that I have known for 30 plus years and when she asked me about buying a gun I almost fainted. She has a second home in Northern Idaho and loves to hike. Often times she is alone and is concerned about bears. She knows all of the standard bear protocol but isn't convinced that alone will get her out of a confrontation if she can't avoid it. I agreed.

This is an intelligent person who I am confident could learn how to handle a gun proficiently but for a woman that weighs maybe a hundred pounds a shotgun or a revolver large enough to do the job properly is improbable if not impractical.

I have done a lot of research on this subject and while I still carry a .44mag in bear country, I am reasonably comfortable with the effectiveness of good bear spray. I recommended she get a half dozen cans of UDAP Bear Spray, practice with one or two of them and replace them every couple years so they stay fresh and fully charged. Done deal.

I want both bear spray and a proper side arm or a shotgun slung over my shoulder when bears could be a problem but I can see where UDAP alone would be a viable and effective measure. Although, like a lot of things, it is still better to avoid the problem altogether in the first place. So, be smart and proactive.

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.

We can be educated and persuaded but not bought, bullied or bs'd.

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

GREAT GEAR RECOMMENDATION - Tenacious Tape By McNett

2012-03-25T19:44:35Z

Tenacious tape comes in a plastic tube a little larger than a chapstick and it weighs practically nothing. It is cheap but effective insurance against soft goods damage in the field. Don't get caught short. Get some.

Sooner or later you are going to damage a piece of your soft goods. If you use your gear like I do then it will probably be sooner. Light weight shells, tents, sleeping bags, pads, gaitors, etc, etc, are all prone to rips and tears whether it comes from a crampon tip, a rock edge or a tent pole. Field repairs need to be made quick, easy and effective so you can continue on with the mission.

Tenacious Tape from McNett works best for me. It is made in a number of colors including clear, comes in a handy little plastic tube and lives up to its name.  It is indeed tenacious.  It is still holding strong to everything I have ever put it on which is more than I can say for my duct, hundred mile an hour or gaffers tapes.
Just to be extra "A" shifty, if at all possible, try to put it on both sides of the damaged area.

This is good stuff and available at any REI type store.

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.

We can be educated and persuaded but not bought, bullied or bs'd.

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

GREAT GEAR RECOMMENDATION - My Fit Foods

2012-03-24T18:53:56Z

Breakfast, lunch and dinner. Nutritionally complete, properly balanced, mostly organic and portion controlled. My medium sized meals run about 1200 calories per day (my BMR is 2139). And the best part, they taste great. Seriously, I am crappingh you negative folks, it is very good food.

Burning lots of calories and staying active is not my problem. The fact that my wife is an outstanding cook and I have a nice corporate expense account is. I don't want to just eat protein, sprinkle something magic on my food, or take some kind of hormone. I just want to eat a healthy, balanced diet while taking in fewer calories than I burn. With that in mind I have been looking for packaged meals that are fresh, good for me and in proper, less than lumberjack sized portions. The issue with some of these programs are there isn't a lot of variety, you have to have the food sent to you, the food is low quality or it just doesn't taste good. What good is a proper diet if you don't like the food? Right.

I found what I was looking for. I was talking with my Doc the other day and mentioned what I was doing and she said I should try MY FIT FOODS. I had never heard of it but there has been a store in Scottsdale for almost a year that is two miles from my house. I went straight there and the clientele I saw streaming in and out was a pretty damn good first impression. They all looked healthy and fit.

What I found inside was a first rate commercial kitchen pumping out high end food divided by breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks in small, medium and large sizes all neatly arranged in big walk in coolers. An anal retentive, obsessive compulsives dream. I am in!

MY FIT FOODS also offers a couple other nice touches. Need expert advice on nutrition or just want to drop in for a single meal, you can do both. They have on-site nutritionists, tables, chairs, microwaves and drinks.

Here is the nutritional information from this mornings American Breakfast meal. This one is a size medium with 410 calories. My wife had the same thing but in a size small and hers was only 270 calories. Both are good sized meals that will get you going and keep you going through lunch.

Come to find out, there is another brand new store two miles away in the other direction which is where I have been going because the guy that runs it is a retired Navy rescue swimmer. Anyway, it has been two weeks and I feel like I am on track which is what I am really shooting for anyway. I don't care how much I weigh. I want to be fit, feel good and be able to keep doing all of the things I like doing. However, my wife, who has been doing this with me, weighed herself in the store and has already dropped 5 pounds.

Apparently this is a Texas company that is growing quickly. These are not franchise stores, they are all company owned which I think is a good thing. So, if you have been looking for something like this, here you go. I recommend it.

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.

We can be educated and persuaded but not bought, bullied or bs'd.

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

GREAT GEAR RECOMMENDATION - Kifaru Slick Sleeping Bag

2012-03-22T05:07:25Z

The Slick Bag from Kifaru uses Climashield Combat synthetic insulation to provide lightweight, compressible protection in a very usable form factor. It's designer spends an extraordinary amount of time in the field. The Slick is proof.

What do you do when you create a company like Mountain Smith, work hard to make it a success, then sell it to a big corporation? Retire? Not if you have a passion for the outdoors. Not if you love to design and make great gear. Not if you are Patrick Smith. If you are Patrick Smith, you start all over again by creating another successful company called Kifaru International where you design and manufacturer some of the best gear on the market.

One of the continual discussions/arguments smoldering in the outdoor gear user world is the question of synthetic vs down sleeping bag insulation. My simple rule of thumb is that if I am confident that I will be able to keep it dry I will usually go for down because, at least up to this point, it is lighter more compressible and a better insulator. However, high quality synthetic insulations like Lamilite and Polarguard have held a very important place in my gear locker. I have used my Wiggys sleeping bags in every environment from river runs to search and rescue missions and they have never failed to perform as expected. Furthermore, they have held up to many years of hard use. However, they are heavier than my down bags with comparable temperature ratings (which is another discussion entirely) and they do take up more space in my pack.

Enter the Slick Bag from Kifaru which might close the gap and occupy the middle ground. The Slick and its more innovative Kifaru siblings use a continuous fiber polyester insulation called Climashield Combat which offers lightweight, compressibility, high warmth to weight ratio and of course it will continue to insulate if it gets wet. Kifaru Slick Bags also offer a less restrictive cut that provides more room for big guys or those that sleep fully clothed and with their boots on like bivy hunters or the military.

A regular size, which fits up to 6' 1", Slick Bag rated at zero degrees weighs 2 pounds 12 ounces. The 20 degree version weighs just 2 pounds. So, now you can see why I am interested in this Kifaru product. I will let you know how it goes.

EDITORS NOTE - Hope you are not in a big hurry if you want to order one of these because you will have to wait five to six weeks. Worse, once you receive it, if you then decide that you need to exchange your Regular width bag for the Wide version, it will take an additional five to six weeks. Frustrating.

UPDATE - Well, after much consideration and testing, I have made a decision. I like the Kifaru Slick Bag very much. It is an outstanding sleeping bag. It has an efficient but highly functional design. It is light weight, kept me warm well past it's rating and is well made. From this point forward I will be using the Kifaru Slick instead of a Wiggys synthetic bag. It is a better piece of gear, especially if you are packing it in on your back, and well worth the wait...even if I did have to go to REI to get a stuff sack for it.

Down or synthetic is still a choice you will have to make depending on the situation but for anything above 20 degrees I am recommending the Kifaru Slick. For what I do, I think it is the best synthetic bag available.

Thanks.

Wade Nelson
Editor

Raw Notes From The Field - Late Winter Storm Slams Central AZ

2012-03-20T04:21:21Z

love it, love it, love it. big weather hits central az from south of phx to the grand canyon. heavy rain down low and steady snow above 3500 feet. headed north to get some.

lower foothills of four peaks are covered and most of the mountain is obscured with clouds. crabtree butte, mt ord and barnhardt are totally socked in with snow coming down hard.

sar guys are already busy with swiftwater and plb calls.

tally ho!

update - i was on top of the rim at about 7500 feet, got about 15 inches of new snow and it was still coming down pretty good when i left. snow bowl ski hill in flag got 3 feet so they get to extend their season. the bigger benefit is that this storm will help replenish our reservoirs which are about half of where they should be. we have had just a trace of rain for the year before this storm.

this is the black diamond one shot tent which measures about 36 inches wide by 85 long by 32 high at the peak. it is a great 3+ season, one man, single wall tent which i would love to give a GREAT GEAR RECOMMENDATION but bd doesn't make this model any more. this is just after i cleared and stomped out a pad. i knew temps were going to get into the low teens and was excited to give the kifaru slick sleeping bag another workout.  the only other things in this tent with me are a full length therm-a-rest, an outdoor research fleece skull cap, a pee bottle which i used three times without leaking so much as a single drop thank you very much, and a wiggys pillow.

the next morning and as you can see everything i cleared away has been filled back in. the one shot performed beautifully and so did the kifaru bag.

my digital thermometer got down to 14 degrees, this basic slick model is rated at 20 degrees and i was comfortable all night. seriously, no cold spots, the neck collar works perfectly, the hood is sized just right and snugs up nicely, and the wide version, that took ridiculously long to get to me, offers enough room for me to twist and turn all night but isn't so voluminous that it is hard to keep heated. there will be a follow up piece on the kifaru slick bag but i am impressed all the way round with this product.  i was skeptical about its temp rating based on how light it is but the climashield combat insulation does the job admirably without a lot of pampering. i am a believer. nuff said about that.

all my gear fits in three of the big pelican 1660 cases and this was a three box trip. i didn't need to test the weatherproofness because afterall they are pelicans, right?  i mean few products really nail their category like a pelican so i knew that the snow would not be a problem but i was still a little curious about the spray from running at highway speeds in the rain for hours.  no problem. piece of cake. dry as a bone inside.

the ford f150 4x4 and those michelin ltx at2 tires keep on trucking without so much as a stumble. i saw at least 6 spin out slash run off into the ditch accidents this weekend but i never felt like i was in trouble. on the ragged edge sometimes in the worst conditions but always under control enough to get me from point a to b safe and sound. add in quiet, comfortable and good gas milage.  couldn't ask for any more unless you were going to do some serious rock crawling, side wall shredding central arizona offroading.

what i wore on my flat land snow hike slash solo snow camp

lowa creek II snow boots - awesome as usual. warm, comfy, easy
danner xstatic otc socks - stayed up and worked great
under armour 9 inch boxer briefs - solid
rei midweight poly pro zip t-neck - great but the cuffs are sloppy big
rei activestretch half zip top - solid
arcteryx gamma sk pants - freaking awesome, this is one of those pieces you buy several of lest they stop making them
hanz nomex liner gloves - super solid. buy a half dozen pair
kuiu chugach jacket - outstanding. there are two shell jackets in my boxes, an arcteryx theta ar and a kuiu chugach which says a lot considering the competition that gets left in the closet. however, the cuffs bite. they need elastic, it is annoying to keep doing and undoing the velcro every time you don and doff
hardcore outdoor blaze orange baseball cap
oakley crosshair shades - cool but more suited for everyday use
my hill people kit bag with wek gear
black diamond elliptic trekking poles
camelbak linchpn day pack
iphone 4 - i switcherd over from a motorola droid 2 recently and i am not sure yet it i like better or not but i sure did like listening to my music without headphones in the tent

EDITORS NOTE - in response to a couple of comments about how much better the pictures would be if I were in them. A) That is debatable B) I was by myself and I am no Les Sroud. Sorry.

News - Man vs Wild Star Bear Grylls Fired

2012-03-14T21:40:13Z

Well, we won't have Gear Grylls to kick around anymore. No more eating rotten zebra meat, drinking urine out of a fresh snake skin, sleeping in camel carcasses, or sucking down live caterpillars. Whatever will we do for entertainment now? How about bring back Les Stroud.

Word leaked out last night that Bear Grylls, star of Discovery Channels Man vs Wild, has been fired. Read a little deeper into the story and you learn that the parties involved had significant differences on a number of things. The result is that Bear is gone and hopefully the show is over.

Regular readers know that I am not a fan of any of those kinds of shows but Man vs Wild was the worst in my opinion. While I appreciate and admire Bears military service, mountaineering accomplishments, and ability to talk an attractive woman into marrying him, the show was contrived and over the top sensationalistic. Oh I concede that it was popular enough to last 6+ seasons and make him a celebrity but that is more commentary on our society in general than testament to the content of the show. In essence, doing stupid things is cool as long as you have a foreign accent and do it on TV.

My biggest gripe is that the show glorifies unpreparedness and it sends a terrible message to the masses. Blunder out into the wilderness with whatever you happen to have in your pockets and with a little innovation you will be just fine. Reality is that if you went where he went and tried to do the things he did or at least the things they tried to make us believe he did, you would die. All I'm saying is, if you have to squeeze the moisture out of fresh elephant dung to get drinking water you need to plan your trips a little better. Are you tracking?

Bear will be fine I am sure, he has a new clothing and equipment line and he is after all a bonified celebrity which is apparently enough to make a living in this day and age. Good luck mate.

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.

We can be educated and persuaded but not bought, bullied or bs'd.

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

Rope Rescue Training With Chief Tom Pendley and Pinal County Sheriff's Office

2012-03-13T19:23:24Z

I got to spend a day on the rock with one of my favorite people and a group of dedicated Search and Rescue (SAR) volunteers. Former teammate and friend Chief Tom Pendley of Peoria Fire and Desert Rescue Research fame asked if I would like to join him for a Rope Rescue III class he was teaching. I have been wanting to do more stories on SAR and opportunities to hang out with Tom are far and few between these days so I jumped at the offer.

This two day field class was the third of a three part series and it represented something of a graduation for this particular group. Although, Tom would be the first to tell you the learning curve in technical rescue is a long one or maybe it isn't a curve at all but a career long process that never really ends. I agree completely. Proficiency and mastery of techniques already learned is critical to safe, effective operations in the field but so is exposure, testing and adoption of new equipment and ways to solve old problems. Good technical rope rescue technicians, rather they arrive in a BRT or a light helicopter, have to be and remain flexible to complete the mission tasked. We have to be flexible not only in the field but in the classroom and anywhere else that new concepts are dreamt up and developed.  So, practice your skills, get more and varied training and be Semper Gumby!

Rope rescue in backcountry environments like Pinal county is, to say the least, unique. It is like all TRT missions, just a practical engineering problem but complicated by the mere fact that it is located in an extreme wilderness setting. Everything you need to effect a rescue has to come in with you and you are are subject to everything mother nature can throw at you in terms of environmental hazards.  Snow, rain, wind, blazing heat, lightning, snakes, scorpions, cactus, mountain lions, skunks, thick scrub brush, killer bees, dehydration, nutrition, sunburn, fatigue, personnel shortages, equipment failures, confined space, uneven terrain, lack of communications, darkness and so on and so on not to mention victim issues all come into play on every mission and it can be quite a challenge with deadly outcomes.  Training is the key to building a team that can adapt, improvise and overcome anything that gets in their way.  Considering his background and experience, this group could not have had a better instructor. I may be biased but then again I know what I am talking about, I think Chief Pendley is the best training resource in the business.

Every training day starts with a briefing to discuss what was done yesterday and the key lessons learned, todays objectives and assignments, and questions. Every training day ends with a debrief meeting where we discuss what happened, lessons learned, things to work on, determine if there are any injuries or damaged gear to be addressed and then where everybody is meeting up for dinner.

Gear sort. Everybody is responsible for carrying a piece of the team gear cache to the training site where it is all laid out on a tarp so it can be organized and accounted for. An equipment manager is usually assigned to manage distribution of the gear and to keep the operation leader aware of what he has to work with.

Technical rope rescue is equipment intensive, even for the best, most efficient teams. Wilderness teams often have to hump their equipment in slash out on their backs (in addition to all their other gear) so weight and space is always a consideration or more accurately, a problem. Lightweight, dependable, rescue load rated, multi-purpose are words that describe their chosen equipment. That is Sterling half inch rope (red working line, blue belay line) and a focused, floating anchor plate with an MPD raise slash lower device from CMC Rescue (which was something I had not used before).



Manned tandem prusiks are used for the belay line.

Rescuers slash litter attendants prepare to load the system prior to going over the edge. Two edge attendants are in place on either side of the litter to minimize edge trauma. The Arizona Vortex (developed by Reed Thorne, made by Rock Exotica, and sold by CMC) is used to create an artificially high directional which keeps the working and belay lines up off the ground and makes it easier for the attendants to negotiate the edge. Note that everybody out in the hazard zone is travel restricted and tied into something.

Going out over the edge with the litter to do a mid-face litter scoop of an injured climber or to go all the way to the bottom to retrieve the victim of an over the side automobile accident. This is technically complex and physically demanding work but there are times when it is the only way to get the job done.

The litter team has reached the bottom for this particular training evolution. The top sector is directed to rig for raise while one of the attendants gets into the litter to play victim.

Edge attendants keep an eye on things from the top while Instructor Pendley talks the litter team through some of the finer points of the operation.

Attended litter being raised back up the face with victim. You can see how difficult this procedure would be without the Arizona Vortex. Note the belay line (blue) and main line (red) run over the edge separately and the attendant is attached to the load ring (not the litter) via a small adjustable mechanical advantage rig called a set of fours.

It was good to be on rock and rope again. Helos will always be my medium of choice I guess but I had forgotten how much I thoroughly enjoy this very technical part of SAR. I also forgot how long those days in the field could be and how physically demanding the work is.

You should know that these folks do this work for free. Actually, if you think about it, they pay for the privilege of serving the public by buying not only their personal gear but also team equipment like patient litters, ropes, carabiners, and pulleys. They are classed as non-paid county employees and they perform a critical function that each county sheriff is statutorily required to provide yet they receive no funding from those offices or the state. Until that changes these dedicated volunteers could use some help from you but the truth is that you may really be helping yourself.

If you love spending time in the backcountry you need to sack up and make a tax deductable donation. You want them to be there when you need them don't you? And when you need them, you want them to be properly trained and equipped don't you? You bet you do so find out who your local team is and send them some dough right now. I did.

Support the Pinal County Sheriff's team directly through this link.

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.

We can be educated and persuaded but not bought, bullied or bs'd.

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

Dog Tired

2012-03-02T20:50:10Z

Camouflage Gore-Tex Fabric For The Military

2012-02-27T17:53:41Z

A close up of a fabric I understand to be made by Gore-Tex. It is of course waterproof slash breathable and has a brushed micro fleece exterior so it is relatively heavy but quiet.

This picture is of a set of Mossy Oak Bibs made by Arcteryx for a military Special Operations group. They used to be listed on the Arcteryx LEAF site but I have not seen them for a long time and I am not sure what is going on with them. I also don't know how heavy (ala Cabelas new MTO stuff which is too heavy) they are but they look quiet.

This is another entry in the waterproof slash water vapor permeable slash quiet sweepstakes that trigger pullers have been very lusting after. It is interesting to me, in light of the corporate relationship between Gore-Tex and Sitka Gear, that we have not seen anything like this from them. As much as the spec ops community would love to have shells made out of the elusive wonder fabric, it is the high end civilian hunting community that has the larger numbers and therefore the lions share of the money.

We still seem to be on the cusp of a major fabric breakthrough but we have not been able to punch it over the goal line. There are some major players in this race. Who is going to get it done and when?

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.

We can be educated and persuaded but not bought, bullied or bs'd.

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

GREAT GEAR RECOMMENDATION - Act of Valor - Movie

2012-02-24T21:35:51Z

The wide ranging and highly adaptive SEALs in their element doing what they do best. Sneaking and peeking, snooping and pooping, then putting lead on target. Center mass boys, center mass!

Going to see Act of Valor today and I am pretty fired up about it. This is supposed to be the real deal folks. It is filmed using honest to god active duty operators during real training and actual missions not a bunch of sniveling, whining, bitching and complaining actor pukes on some phony Hollywood set. I heard that it took 'em four years to shoot this thing.

I passed up an opportunity to screen this movie because of a scheduling conflict and now I am kicking myself for missing it. Coop dude and I are gonna be at the first showing. I will let you know what I think.

MR16 out.

UPDATE - Well, first and foremost I whole heartedly recommend that you go see this movie. Beyond that I think it speaks for itself. Just remember that these are real SEALs, real TTPs, and real gear slash equipment being used to tell a fictitious but plausible story (actually the story is based on real missions). In this case the actors with the biggest parts are the technical advisors and that gives this production ground breaking authenticity. What a concept. To say this movie is unique doesn't do it justice.

A few things that stood out to me.

First, I don't know why it was different but I really liked the way the picture looked. Seemed more rich, crisp and vivid than other movies I have seen.

Second, it was a good story and I like the angle it took.

Third, they did a pretty good job of capturing the essence of your average everyday SEAL, at the least the ones I know. Laid back but not to be screwed with. Intense but composed, focused and effective when things get serious. Smart but smart asses too. There is just something about guys that hang it out for a living, these guys hang it way out and it isn't just for the thrill of it. What they do is deep down, bedrock foundation important and that is the difference, the depth I see in most of the Spec Ops guys I have spent time around. The acting may have come off a little stiff sometimes but I will take authentic people over slick actors every day of the week and so apparently will the guys behind the making of this movie.

And, lastly, one of the hardest things I have ever had to do in my entire life was kiss my wife and kids good bye then turn around and climb into a helicopter that was burning fuel waiting on me. I knew where we were going and what we were going to be doing, that there was a chance that I might not ever see them again yet I went any way because I was part of that crew. An incredibly difficult act to rationalize slash justify in real life and a real challenge for the makers to capture both sides of the dilemma on film but Act of Valor does it about as good as it can be done. Clearly, they get it and in so doing have probably earned free drinks at SEAL bars on both coasts for life.

Best lines -
"did we get her"
"that's some high speed shit"
"look harder"
"you live your life by a code, an ethos..."
"damn few"
"the worst thing about growing old is that younger men stop seeing you as dangerous"

Well done guys. Great movie.

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.

We can be educated and persuaded but not bought, bullied or bs'd.

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