Product Reviews

Gun Slicker – Rifle Protection

gunslicker_1

With Gun Slicker you can keep your mind on the hunt rather than worrying about whether your rifle is in danger of becoming damaged. Gun Slicker protects your rifles from mud, moisture, and other harsh outdoor elements. It is constructed of water resistant fabric which employs a drawstring to contour exactly to your gun. Your rifles strap passes out the Gun Slicker for ease of use and convenience. Gun Slicker also comes with a handy pouch attached to the end for compact storage.

On Target – Quick easy protection for your rifle.  Do you take really good care of your rifles and hate to drag them out in harsh conditions? No worries now.  If it starts to snow or rain, pull this baby out of your pack and your gun is safe.  And you can easily slid your rifle out when you need to make that shot.   I’m not a huge rifle person, don’t hunt much with one but when I do you can bet I’m packing my slicker.

Off Target – I need a slicker for my bow!  Let me know when that’s available.

Check out the whole product line from Alpine at www.alpineproducts.com or order your slicker here.

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Bamboo Performance Technology!

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In 2009 TASC Performance entered the apparel world with one mission – the reinvention of performance apparel.

After 2 and a half years of research, development, and engineering they’ve brought the performance market something completely new and revolutionary with their first generation Bamboo Performance Technology line, thriv Natural Performance.  tasc Performance has taken those initial Bamboo Performance Technology foundations, incorporated new fabric structures, fiber blends and technical details and is now staging a coup d’etat on the performance apparel industry.  tasc Performance isn’t an alternative to performance apparel, it’s apparel for true performers.

They forge the most innovative trail-running, training, outdoor, and lifestyle apparel the world has ever seen.  It’s Bamboo Performance Technology and it’s changing everything.

On Target - #1 the apparel feels amazing, I give tasc an A++ on comfort. #2 the apparel is lightweight.  After wearing the apparel through a couple workouts it’s as if I don’t have a shirt on.  There’s not movement restrictions, the stuff breaths fantastic and the apparel doesn’t seem to get heavier as it absorbs sweat. The sweat disappears!  I need 5 more outfits!!  A few other benefits the Bamboo technology has that I might as well mention is: anit-odor control, which is nice for being that I’m an avid bowhunter.  UPF 50+, the UV rays literally bounce off you.  4-way stretch, meaning any direction you and your muscles go the fabric moves and stretches and best of all it’s made right here in the great USA.

Off Target - Do I dare say it?  Price.  Yes, until the main stream is aware of Bamboo Performance Technology I think they’ll have problems selling a ton of this.  But I might be wrong.  I truly believe it’s a great product and I wish them the best.  I’ll continue to wear the apparel cause I have tried it first hand and believe in it.  I hope the hardcore athletes can look past the price and give it a shot.  It will be worth it.

Check them out online at: www.tascperformance.com

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7 Products Geared Towards Women in the Outdoors

Guest Post:

Women comprise an extremely large segment of the outdoor sports retail market.  For that reason, manufacturers are doing what they can to create outdoor products with the female in mind.  If you love the outdoors, but also love the thought of comfort, safety and convenience fit for a woman, then have a look over this list of seven products geared towards women in the outdoors:

Adventuress Skin Care. Just because you prefer to spend time out in the sun, that doesn’t mean you aren’t aware of the sun’s harmful effects on your skin, and it certainly doesn’t mean you want to walk around with zinc oxide smeared over your nose.  Made by women who love the outdoors for women who love the outdoors, Adventuress skin care products are all-natural, contain sunscreen, and are odorless (so you don’t attract any of those pesky mosquitoes).

Luna Bars. These nutrient-packed energy bars are just what you need for long, active excursions in the great outdoors.  Plus, they were formulated with women in mind, containing things like soy protein, calcium, green tea extract, and folic acid – all things that support female health.

Venus 11 Kayak. This kayak, by Ocean Kayak, is one of the lightest kayaks that can be found on the market, making it ideal for women.

Go Girl Urination Device. Okay, so now to address the big white elephant in the room: the problem of urinating in the wilderness when you’re with a group and without any privacy.  This invaluable device is small, discreet, sanitary, and the perfect solution to this ages-old problem, actually providing women with the means to urinate while standing.

Stholquist Cruiser Personal Floatation Device (PFD). This PFD is made especially for women.  It’s smaller cut and shorter torso design, combined with its supportive inner cups, make it a prime choice for women who plan on spending time in a kayak, or in the water, swimming after their kayak.

Teva Dozer III Water Shandal. What’s a shandal, you ask?  Well, it’s a combination shoe-sandal . . . and it’s also a perfect fit for women who want to traverse any type of environment – wet or dry.

CamelBak Hydration Backpack. This water-storage device is designed to sit on your back, and is cut small, to fit the female physique.

The next time you plan on spending some rough and tumble time in the great outdoors, remember that it is not necessary to settle for the best closest fit.  There is a wide array of outdoor products that were developed with you, the female adventurer, in mind.

About the Author: Marcela Spafford is an outdoor enthusiast with a passion for bringing the wilderness into the lives of more women. When she’s not camping, she is often writing about jobs in healthcare, politics, and personal finance.

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Fire Cam MINI HD camera

firecamreview
The NEW Fire Cam Mini HD Fire Helmet Camera is the best High Definition Fire Helmet Camera we have designed yet! It is also the SMALLEST HIGH DEFINITION HELMET CAMERA IN THE WORLD. Recording in 1280 x 720P High Definition, the Fire Cam Mini HD is built by firefighters, the camera is made of heat resistant anodized aluminum with a heat resistant glass lens specifically designed for interior firefighting. The camera can take on temperatures upwards to 900F.

This is what is INCLUDED with this order:
1. Fire Cam MINI HD Fire Helmet Camera. THE ONLY FIRE HELMET CAMERA SPECIFICALLY DESIGNED BY FIRE CAM FOR INTERIOR FIREFIGHTING CONDITIONS.
2. 2 spare / rechargeable batteries.
3. The modified BlackJack Fire Helmet Mount to mount the camera to ANY style helmet.
4. Water resistant cap for audio, used for firefighting, so you can hear everything including radio traffic.
5. Water Proof cap for NO audio used for underwater incidents up to 50ft.
6. USB cable for connecting to computer and charger.
7. AC Wall Charger to charge the camera after use.
8. Hardback Water Resistant Carrying Case to store the camera and equipment.
9. Rubber straps and plastic mounts to mount the camera in other locations besides the fire helmet.
10. Instruction Manual.
11. 6 MONTH WARRANTY WITH DAILY CUSTOMER SERVICE if you have ANY questions that are answered by FIRE CAM (FIREFIGHTERS).

The Fire Cam MINI HD camera records onto a Micro SDHC CLASS 6 card up to 32GB which is NOT INCLUDED. We sell the Transcend 8GB CLASS 6 card in our store which works perfect. PLEASE NOTE THAT YOU SHOULD USE A CLASS 6 CARD FOR THE SMOOTHEST VIDEO. Any CLASS 6 card will work.

ON TARGET – I’m using the firecam to film myself hunting, sort of another angle that the cameraman might not get.  The footage looks great and I love how easy the camera is to operate and work with the captured footage.

OFF TARGET – During the sunny part of the day it is tough to see the little LED lights to know if the camera is recording or not.  I have to shade it a bit to make sure I have the thing rolling.  Only downfall at the moment.

Check it out here

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ZIPPO Flexible Neck Utility Lighter

zippocritic

Grills, lanterns, tiki torches and fireplaces all require a certain degree of precision when being lit. And that’s where the Flexible Neck Utility Lighter comes in.

It’s slim, powerful nozzle easily fits into the openings on most grills and lanterns, and with wind-resistant dual-flame technology, it’s ideal for any outdoor setting.

  • Wind-resistant dual flame technology
  • Flexible extended neck, topped by a slim, powerful nozzle, easily fits all lighting openings.
  • Available in two finishes; satin silver and rubberized flat black
  • Rugged metal construction
  • Advanced ignition system
  • Fuel-level indicator
  • Adjustable flame
  • Patented child-resistant safety button

ON TARGET- The above is all true, it does all this and some.  Great lighter for any outdoor enthusiast. I found it easy to use, strong flame and compact.   I even dropped it in a creek and the sucker fired right up.  Not recommending that but it did still work. It’s the last lighter you’ll ever have to buy.

OFF TARGET- Issues that may surface i see:  Flying and crossing borders with the butane gas bottles.  Please check ahead on this before security trashes them or they explode in your luggage.  Really I found no problems with the unit itself.  It was easy to fill with butane and was easy to operate. I do wonder and I hope to find out where the ZIPPO butane containers are being sold????

If you are interested in getting your own ZIPPO lighter check them out at: www.zippo.com

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The Pocket Drag

pocketdrag(critic)

The Pocket Drag is a small drag tool that will fit in your hip pack, backpack or just in the back pocket of your favorite camo pants. The perfect accessory that will aid with dragging, loading, or hanging your game. The Pocket Drag can be used with small or large game. The Pocket Drag is being field test by many well known professional hunters.

ON TARGET: Don’t want to get your hands dirty, Can’t get a good grip;  Those days are over.  If you have to drag or carry an animal whether it be a gobbler over your shoulder, a bloody coyote, or a big buck you just harvested I insist you try the Pocket Drag.  It’s small and easy to pack and strong enough to drag a 700 pound boar hog.  If you hunt and/or trap you’ll love the Pocket Drag.

OFF TARGET: Getting the word out.  Not to many people know about this small but useful tool.  The company is probably taking the right steps to get the name out there. I am unsure about their marketing.  I would like to see some modifications done to the website.

Take a look at the Pocket Drag.  Get you one ordered and let me know what you think. www.thepocketdrag.com

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Big Green Targets

BGT_critic

Big Green Targets is a division of Poly-Green Foam, LLC. Big Green Targets and Poly-Green Foam are committed to offering innovative high performance recycled green initiative products. Their recycled foam targets feature a revolutionary new proprietary design consisting of a heat bonded layered recycled foam outer core filled with combination of recycled fabric and ground recycled foam that creates the ultimate “Green” target which combines super stopping power with easy arrow removal. Will easily stop 350 FPS arrows. These high performance targets are suitable for today’s high speed compound bows or crossbows. Arrow removal is much easier than traditional thin completely layered foam targets. Big Green Targets offer true breakthrough technology in the archery business.

ON TARGET – With more and more people making the environmentally-friendly commitment it’s time we hunters start playing a role.  Big Green Targets has established themselves in a BIG way!  Their targets not only are made from 100% recycled material they continue to stop arrows after thousands of shots.  Having shot their field tip and broadhead targets I will say this, easiest arrow removal targets I’ve shot. Oh, and best of all their 100% weatherproof!

OFF TARGET - These targets are built to last and their weight shows it.  I recommend getting the smaller targets for those traveling hunts and get a bigger one for the backyard.

To check out their full line visit them at www.biggreentargets.com

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HANDWARMERS.NET

Critic_handwarmer

Many people find that when the weather turns cold, no matter what they do they have a very difficult time keeping warm. No matter how many layers they put on they still can not beat the chill factor, but the good news is now there is a way!  Handwarmers are 100% natural which means no harmful chemicals or batteries. Composed of iron, water, salt, wood fiber and activated charcoal these all natural products make  hand warmers, safe and environmentally friendly. Once the warmer is removed from its package, it is air activated to produce a warming all natural heat keeping your hands warm for up to ten hours.

ON TARGET - I’m a bowhunter and I will hunt till the last day of the season.  Cold weather… Even better.   Especially when Handwarmers were invented.  I hate to wear gloves on my release hand.   I don’t practice with a glove on that hand so I’m not going to shoot that way while hunting.  So, I carry a couple handwarmers in my pockets and I’m perfectly fine.  These things activate very quickly, they remain warm most of the day, and they are easy to pack.  If you love hunting the cold like I do, get you some handwarmers.  They make you forget it’s cold outside.

OFF TARGET -  Two things:   Packaging – I would open them before entering your stand.  Sometimes it may not matter but on those calm quite days and you need a little warmth I suggest you open them inside your backpack just to muffle the noise.    Secondly, shelf life – Seems as if I don’t use all my packs and I save them for the next season, some tend to not get as warm or last as long.  You may only get a couple hours out of them.

So, if the weather is chilly don’t go indoors for a bowl of hot chilly,   Get some Handwarmers! Check out their full line of handwarmers here:  www.handwarmers.net

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Gorilla’s New King Kong HX Treestands.

GorillacriticA whole new look to the stands and yes I like the new vibe Gorilla has going.

  • Large platform with sleek single post design for ultimate portability.
  • All-welded steel HX construction rated for 300 lbs.
  • XPE foam seat
  • Single post design system
  • Flip-up seat design
  • Seat leveling system
  • Easy-Cinch™ claw strap
  • Fully adjustable backpack straps
  • XT-6 Nylon red washers
  • Mossy Oak® Treestand™ camo

ON TARGET – SOLID, SOLID, SOLID… In my opinion Gorilla is at the top of the food chain when it comes to treestands.  Their whole 2010 line is top notch.  Besides the lightweight designs and being solid when attached to the tree they added even more comfortable XPE foam seats.  Hot Dog no excuses for not sitting all day.

OFF TARGET – Honestly, the stands are built to last.  I have not one issue with it.  I do have a problem with the safety harness that comes included with the stand.  If they would exchange that harness with their new EXO TECH Safety harness then we would be in the chips.

Log on to their site and check them out for yourself.  Who really cares what I say anyway:  www.gorillatreestands.com

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Nikonreview

The Nikon Archer’s Choice is truly the ultimate bowhunter’s rangefinder – specifically designed and engineered with the help of Ralph and Vicki Cianciarulo of Archer’s Choice for real world bowhunting situations.

This rangefinder features Nikon’s legendary multicoated optics, waterproof/fogproof ruggedness, pocket-sized portability, long eye relief (18mm) and the new ID (Incline/Decline) Technology.

On Target - It’s designed for the bowhunter.  I love the compact rugged design along with the quick and accurate ranging. The ID technology is really nice for those 25ft to 30ft treestands or when you’re over-looking a steep incline.  Everything they say about this unit is true.  It will make a great rangefinder for any bowhunter.

Off Target - Very cold weather is not it’s friend.  When the temps drop below 20 my unit wants to have a mind of its own.  I’m not sure if it’s a condensation issue or what.  If you have some tips on ways to acclimate the rangefinder please send them my way so that I may let other readers know.

Check them out for yourself at www.nikonhunting.com

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