Archive for the ‘Product Reviews’ Category

Warrenton Oregon Skipanon Marina – Maritime Survival Training

Posted: November 22, 2013 in Adventures, Coast Products, Cold Weather, Everyday Carry (EDC), HD Videos, Product Reviews
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Produced By Cameron McKirdy with Tactical Gypsy

Homeless.  That’s what we were.  My bro and I stayed on this boat for weeks last summer to avoid paying rent, and getting a regular job.  We were free, and so was our lodging.  But with that comes less.  We had to deal with a lot of crap.  It’s noisy in the Skipanon and Warrenton Oregon Marina.  Sleeping is challenging.  People work on boats at all hours, so there’s usually people clamoring, and trucks hauling.

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Skipanon Warrenton Oregon Marina at Night

Once we had to stay on the boat right after our host varnished the interior.  We opened the craft up, but the stench was still awful.  I got a headache, and while grateful for the place to lay down, I was ready to split and catch the bus into town.  In the HD video above we got a solid fire going, but I didn’t film the smoke that filled the cabin, and it was horrible.  I got a headache from that too.  Again, we lifted the lid on the boat, and opened up the ceiling, but sacrificed warmth.  The Survival Bros slept on a wet mattress because the boat had recently sank.

We had a key to the shower and restroom, but that was a hike from the boat.  Plus, we didn’t want to get hassled by security, so we kept our creeping to a minimum, and laid low.  The smart move was to pee in plastic bottles to avoid detection.  However, the other fisherman on the marina were typically very helpful.  We had their assistance many times when we had to do work on the boat, or move it to another slip.  Speaking of, the rent for a spot there is only $70 per month, and our buddy paid that.  You have to pay a little more for electricity, but it’s still the cheapest place to crash in town.  In exchange for a bed, Tactical Gypsy worked on the boat, making sure the bilge was pumping out water, or whatever.  I kept him company, and learned what I could from the Maritime Scientist.  It was an adventure for sure, and I’m happy to share it with you.  More homelessness tales soon.  Thanks for supporting Survival Bros.  Peace and love.

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Selling waterlogged boat motors for cash

Oregon Ducks Survival Straps – Making Paracord Shoelaces HD

Posted: November 16, 2013 in Everyday Carry (EDC), Gear, HD Videos, Paracord, Product Reviews
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Produced By Cameron McKirdy

Watch Survival Bros repair Oregon Ducks Nike shoes with an officially licensed Survival Straps bracelet.  My shoelace broke, and I needed a solution ASAP so I could get back on the road.  It worked out great, because the green color matched my player edition, team issued kicks.

It was easy to unravel the tightly bound milspec 550 paracord strap, taking only a few minutes to get the cordage I needed.  As I mention in the HD video, I did have to cut off the ends so they could pass through the adjustable plastic clasp.  However, it was no problem reheating the tips so they wouldn’t come undone later.  I had plenty of cord to work with, and I cut it to length.  Luckily my new laces were able to pass through the holes as I relaced my Nikes.  Now my shoelaces are stronger than ever, and handy if I need them for another purpose.  Plus, because this was an emergency I will get a new band when I share my story with Survival Straps.  I was worried I was going to be barefoot this afternoon, but I was prepared with my paracord bracelet nearby.  The last thing I want is my shoe to come off when I bike through a busy intersection.  I’m good to go.

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They have so many cool designs, you really have to look at them for yourself.  I also like the wide double fish tail designs.  At $29.99 the Oregon Ducks Survival Straps is a deal.  You’ll get up to 15 feet of military spec super strong paracord from one bracelet.  Having a little extra cordage in an emergency situation could be the difference between life in death.  Thankfully, I wasn’t in true danger this time.

Here’s a link to my other blog post about Survival Straps.  Please visit Survival Bros again soon.  Best wishes.

Oregon Ducks Nikes RepairedMy fixed kicks with green 550 paracord laces

SteriPEN Sidewinder Review for Emergency Preparedness By Survival Bros

Posted: November 14, 2013 in Adventures, Emergencies, Gear, Product Reviews
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Produced By Cameron McKirdy

In this HD video Survival Bros tests the SteriPEN Sidewinder UV Water Purification System.  It’s hand powered, meaning it’s battery-free.  I think it’s light-weight at 16.6 ounces, and compact enough to fit in a backpack with a height of 8.6 inches.  The Sidewinder is perfect for camping, and emergency preparedness.  Their moto is “safe drinking water anywhere.”  That’s a noble mission, and one we can all appreciate.

Imagine knowing a hurricane is about to devastate your area, and seeing this on your shelf.  I can’t picture a prep that would bring more peace of mind than the SteriPEN Sidewinder.  This tool disinfects 8,000 liters of water that could be contaminated with bacteria, protozoa, and viruses.  Those potentially harmful risks are getting eliminated thanks to the powerful UV lamp.  Even a kid could operate this purifier.  All you have to do is fill it, flip it, crank it, and drink it.  In 90 seconds you have water you don’t have to worry about.  Survival Bros is also grateful that the bottle is BPA-free, so you won’t be drinking chemicals that way.  In the box you get the 1L container, water-tight bottle lid, and Pre-Filter for particulate removal.

The SterPEN Sidewinder is one of those products a prepper really needs.  It’s a good backup to have, in case your regular water source is compromised, or you’re just off the grid.  I have no complaints with this system.  It feels well made, it works, and will continue to keep me safe for many years.  They even offer a 3 year warranty.  Plus, they are an American company.  Check out their full line of gear at http://www.steripen.com  There’s an ultraviolet light solution right for you.  I’m sure you’ll see us testing more SteriPEN products in the future.  We approve 100%!

SteriPEN Sidewinder UVSteriPEN Sidewinder UV Water Purification System for Emergency Preparedness

Dr. Martens Wonder Balsam Review with Before and After Pictures

Posted: October 21, 2013 in Product Reviews, SB Tips
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Produced By Cameron McKirdywonder balsam

If you have leather, try Dr. Martens Wonder Balsam on it.  I had to do a product review on this treatment.  I’ve been using it for years, and restored four pairs of footwear today.  It brought my boots, dress shoes, and UGG slippers back to life.  I will try it on an old leather coat next.  It’s so much fun to apply, I wish I had a crappy leather couch to fix up.  You don’t have to rub much on with the sponge for it to condition, and protect.  It’s a good prep to get out of the way.

Here’s the product description: A unique blend of coconut oil, lanolin and beeswax. These all-natural ingredients clean and protect leather to keep it soft and supple. For use on all leather, except suede types. Use it on all things leather … shoes, handbags, jackets, even furniture. • All-Natural Ingredients of Coconut Oil, Lanoline and Beeswax • Protects Against Water, Liquid and Salt Marks • No Polishing Necessary

Now look at my kicks before and after!

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old dr martens

Dress Boots Waxed

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Survival Bros tested and approved!

Gerber Rex Applegate Covert Folder Fighting Knife 05786 Review

Posted: October 9, 2013 in Everyday Carry (EDC), Gear, Product Reviews
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Produced By Cameron McKirdy

Thanks for watching! In addition, the blade steel is 154CM with a titanium nitride coating. Super durable. Don’t get the F.A.S.T. version of this knife. It felt slow to deploy, and cheap. Boker makes fixed blade Applegate designed knives too. Subscribe to Survival Bros on Youtube for more. We’ll have other knife reviews soon. Here’s the Gerber LMF 2 stress test I did breaking car windows. Enjoy.

This film previously classified as restricted security information has been unclassified. For instruction purposes only. It’s called COMBAT FIRING with HAND GUNS. Presented by The Colonel for the US Army.

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Colonel Rex Applegate with his Boker fighting knife

At Applegate Homestead in Oregon

Survival Bros Everyday Carry (E.D.C.) Keychain Items

Posted: September 13, 2013 in Coast Products, Emergencies, Everyday Carry (EDC), Kershaw Knives, Product Reviews
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Produced By Cameron McKirdy

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This is my new and improved EDC keychain system.  Now I have many practical items handy at all times, with little redundancy. I plan on changing out gear as I acquire smaller, higher quality tools, but this is stuff I had on hand. Everything fits easily in my pocket, since I usually wear athletic shorts, and not tight pants like a hipster.  I’ve also hooked my everyday carry survival keychain to the belt loop on my jeans, and to the outside of my tactical Bug Out Bag, for easy access.  I’d like to add a telepen, peanut lighter, USB thumb drive, glow in the dark tape, 550 paracord, bit driver, seat-belt cutter/knife sharpener, and maybe something for self defense like a kubaton, or pepper spray.  

I will update this blog post as the project develops. Tell us what’s on your keychain, and help out other Survival Bros readers. Below is the EDC Keychain items list. Thanks for visiting.

– Sharpie Mini
– CRKT Eat N’ Tool (tactical spork)
– 4 In One Tool: whistle, compass, thermometer, magnifying glass
– Gerber Shard multitool: pry bar, bottle/can opener, Phillips/Standard screw driver, nail puller
– Coast Products TX5 Night Vision Red Keychain light
– LED LENSER P3 AFS P focusing LED light with pocket clip, sheath, and carabiner included
– Leatherman Style Multitool: knife, tweezers, nail file, and scissors
– Kershaw Rainbow Chive with Tip-lock (Ken Onion Design)
– Mini Nail Clippers
– Waterproof pill container
– Lighter Leash for Bic
– Belt Loop Clasp

Hunting and Cooking Wild Rabbit on the Oregon Coast – Survival Bros.com

Posted: August 12, 2013 in Cooking, Frugality, Product Reviews
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PRODUCED BY CAMERON McKIRDY

WARNING – BLOG IS GRAPHIC, AND MAY NOT BE SUITABLE FOR CHILDREN.

Survivalism is hardcore. Man has to eat. My bro Tactical Gypsy took matters into his own hands, and seized an opportunity yesterday, killing a wild rabbit and cooking it on a beach bonfire in Oregon. He’s on the Paleo diet, and needs lots of protein to stay lean and healthy. He popped the furry friend with his Glock 40 upon first sight. One bullet put it down. Roger never knew what hit him.

dead bunny rabbit rogerNext, Tactical Gypsy had to clean the cottontail rabbit with the knife shown above. He also removed the cute little feet. It took about 45 minutes to smoke on the fire with some PBR baste. It’s a hearty meal for at least two. To cut up wood, the survivalist and former Marine battoned wood into small chunks with the Coast Products FX350. He is proud to rock this knife as part of this every day carry or EDC. It’s held up remarkably well, considering the tremendous beating Survival Bros has put on it. Great work demonstrating your ability to be self-sufficient Tactical Gypsy. Thanks for the story and picture. Survival Bros salutes you.

If you would like to share a story, photo, or idea with Cameron McKirdy at Survival Bros, please email thesurvivalbros@gmail.com. You’re awesome.

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Survival Bros Bug Out Bike – Specialized Allez Sport Road Bicycle Video

Posted: August 3, 2013 in Bikes, Emergencies, Frugality, HD Videos, Product Reviews
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By Cameron McKirdy

What’s good friends? I had to give you a quick update on my new Specialized Road bike. It’s a work in progress. I just picked it up from Goodwill, and started modifying it. First, I had the back wheel straightened, brakes adjusted, and new black handlebar grips put on. Next I attached a front light, back rack with pannier bags, a seat pack, and a black Specialized brand bottle holder. Plus, I acquired a bicycle repair kit, complete with mini tire pump, a set of tools, and more. I have a cargo net that can lockdown even more survival gear on top of the rack. Now I’m ready for the zombie apocalypse!

Check out the HD video clip I shot, and let me know how you would modify this ride. I plan on adding a handle bar bag, bell, rear LED lights, toe clips on the pedals, a B.O.B. Yak one-wheeled cargo trailer, and a computer for mileage, etc. I’m not spray painting this one. I like the odd color combo. I want to be highly visible on the road, so I will add 3M reflectors and wear them too. This bike is ideal for taking on long trips, and camping. I love every second riding this emergency preparedness vehicle. It’s fast. Enjoy the pictures.

Specialized Allez Sport 1994

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Update: I put new bags on my Allez. Now I can carry more gear. I will shoot another video when the packs are fully loaded, and I feel like this project is complete.

Survival Bros Reviews The Kershaw Junkyard Dog 2.2 Knife At Mount St. Helens

Posted: June 15, 2013 in Everyday Carry (EDC), HD Videos, Kershaw Knives, Product Reviews
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Produced by Cameron McKirdy

In this HD video I test a brand new blade from Kershaw Knives out of Tualatin, Oregon.  I hiked with it in my pocket near the crater of Mt. St. Helens, from the Johnston Ridge Observatory.  This park is a National Monument, and a true American treasure.  The Junkyard Dog 2.2 is also a gem.  It’s a rigid manual opening knife, loaded with style.  It’s bold, from the slick pocket clip, to the textured black G10 handle.  Kershaw thought of everything.  It comes with a protective zippered pouch too, which will keep the sand and dirt out of it, and save it from hard falls.  My favorite part of the design is the way it opens.  The flipper on the top is easy to grip with one finger, and flick open, and into a locked position.  The liner lock is also the beefiest I’ve ever seen.  It’s no joke.  The blade isn’t closing unless you deliberately push the lock to the side. 

Overall, the Junkyard Dog 2.2 is easy to handle, and use.  I recommend it fully.  I like it’s aggressive design.  Plus, for a folder, it has a thick and wide blade.  It must also be mentioned that the blade is made of composite steel.  It’s quality engineering, boasting both D2 steel, and high-performance Sandvik 14C28N stainless on the spine.  The Junkyard Dog 2.2 can take any beating you dish out.  Survival Bros has even battoned it with wood to cut kindling for a fire.  It has sliced through every material I’ve tried; duct tape, rope, fabric, tree branches, elk meat, and more.  If you’re looking for a bigger EDC knife, this one is epic.  The JYD 2 retails for $149.95.  The version tested is Model 1725CB.  More reviews soon.  I’d appreciate your comments.  Thanks!

jyd 2.2

GSI Outdoors H2O Lite & Dukjug Product Review By Survival Bros

Posted: June 2, 2013 in Adventures, HD Videos, Product Reviews
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Produced by Cameron McKirdy

When you are in the field, your gear has to work.  That’s why I pack the best in my bag.  I’ve been testing both the Dukjug, and H2O Lite bottles from GSI Outdoors, featured in the HD video review above.  I hiked out to Cape Falcon in Oswald West State Park.  This Oregon State Park is wondrous, with vast ocean views, and wide waterfalls.  The trail was muddy though, but I live to get dirty.  It’s 2.10 miles to Cape Falcon from the parking lot on Highway 101.  So it took about 45 minutes to get to where I filmed the product review.

The Dukjug is my favorite bottle.  It’s stainless steel, and holds 1 liter.  The design is fun, and colorful.  It’s covered in peace signs, and funky tye dye, so this container fits my hippie personality.  GSI Outdoors makes other designs of this jug too, and even a plastic version, all of which are BPA-free.  Their Dukjug is unique, because it stores duct tape under the rubber band on the outside.  Of course every prepper should have extra tape on hand just in case.  I’d use this bottle for hot liquids, and mixing up drinks, like instant coffee or tea.  It has a wide lid, so you can store anything inside, even food.  The Dukjug tips the scales at 10.1 oz, and retails for $19.95.  That’s a value, because unless you drop it off a cliff, it will last a lifetime.

The H2O Lite is super handy to have around.  It’s collapsible, and weighs next to nothing, only 0.9 oz.  I can just roll it up, and shove it in my backpack.  It takes up virtually no space.  I like that you can write on it, and date it.  Plus, it has a cool cap so it doesn’t leak.  When you want a cold drink, just pop the top, and squirt it in your pie hole.  Graduations are marked on the back too, which could help with cooking when you need to use a precise amount of water.  GSI Outdoors makes smaller versions as well.  I would want to bring one of those on my shorter day trips when I’m going ultralight.  If you need quality camping gear, look no further than this American company.  They have a huge product line you have to check out.  More reviews soon.  Thanks for visiting Survival Bros.  Don’t forget to subscribe to the blog.  Peace and love.Cam @ Cape Falcon

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