Posts Tagged ‘gear’

Powertraveller Solarmonkey Adventurer Review and Stress Test

Posted: March 10, 2013 in Product Reviews
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Produced by Cameron McKirdy

You’re off the grid, but you need power. That’s when you wish you invested in a solar panel charger, like the Solarmonkey from Powertraveller that I tested in the HD video above.

If I’m alone in the woods, it’s nice to know my cell phone has power just in case. That’s why the Solarmonkey Adventurer comes with. If I fall off a cliff, having my iPhone handy sure beats a whistle. Powertraveller has created a huge variety of solar chargers, excellent for any job. From small ones that can give your phone a boost, to large solar panels that can keep your laptop running. I like the Solarmonkey Adventurer because it’s a great size for backpacking, and mountain biking.

The powerful internal lithium polymer battery is 2500mAh, and will charge fully in 12 hours or less. Plus, you can charge the battery, and a device at the same time, saving time.  And it can plug into a wall, or DC outlet.  I was shocked at how fast it charges my phone. The system is lightweight too, tipping the scales at only 9.3 ounces.  The dimensions are 6.6 x 3.7 x 0.8 inches.

It comes with many tips to be compatible for your device, and a heavy-duty “Monkeytail” cable made just for Apple products. The neoprene case it comes in is durable also. It will keep the solar panels safe, and secure. A carabiner is included. I use that often so it can just hang off my bag. As I mentioned in the video review, the panels are shock and water-resistant. It outlasted me pouring water on it while charging, and surprisingly worked after I froze it. The Solarmonkey Adventurer from Powertraveller is badass. I can easily recommend it to my friends.  Thanks for visiting Survival Bros.  Come back soon.solarmonkey-adventurer-5

GSI Outdoors Pinnacle Dualist Cookware Review – HD

Posted: March 5, 2013 in News, Parks, Product Reviews
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It’s my pleasure to bring to you, the GSI Outdoors Pinnacle Dualist.  This is a brilliant cooking solution for ultralight backpacking.  It gets high marks with Survival Bros, and my puggle featured in the HD video review above.

I think you’ll like this cookware system because it has all the bases covered.  It comes loaded with two telescoping foons, two 20 ounce insulated bowls with lids, two 20 ounce mugs, and a large hard anodized aluminum pot including a lid with a built in strainer.  This is perfect for cooking pasta, and even works as a spout for pouring liquids like hot tea.  The orange and blue foons match their bowls, but I like them because they are deep, so I can take big bites.  They are dishwasher safe too, like the rest of the Pinnacle Dualist.  Also, the entire package is BPA-free, so you aren’t absorbing harmful chemicals.

When I first got the Dualist a few months back, I was stoked that the bowls were insulated.  The last thing I want is my precious food to go cold right after I prepare it.  Plus, the bowls have “Sip-it” lids.  GSI Outdoors must have been thinking about messy eaters like me.  With the lids locked down, I’m less likely to spill scorching soup on my chest.  Another sly feature is the rubberized pot handle.  It folds, and either locks into place as a long handle, or on top of the bowls, keeping everything secure in the pot.

The stuff sack is also a wash basin.  I couldn’t believe it either.  It’s one more container that could come in handy for collecting water out of the creek, or washing your hands before supper.  The cookware system looks as good as it functions.  It’s orange and black.  I like having a high-visibility handle for cooking in low light.  And when you’re done, the Pinnacle Dualist is an easy clean.  It uses non-stick Teflon with Radiance technology.  So there’s no scrubbing.  Heat spots aren’t an issue either, allowing for quicker, and more even cooking.

The Pinnacle Dualist retails for $64.95.  If you are looking for an ultralight cooking solution ideal for two people, this could be for you.  I like the price, but truly appreciate the thought that went into this American design.  It’s all only 21.6 ounces, and the pot holds 1.8 liters.  The dimensions are 5.90″ x 6.40″ x 5.90″.  The Dualist offers bang for your buck.  This product gets the Survival Bros seal of approval.  Please comment, like, and share.  Thanks.

Produced by Cameron McKirdy

For more visit http://www.gsioutdoors.com

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Trading with a Friend for Smaller Goods

Posted: February 25, 2013 in Frugality, SB Tips, Uncategorized
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Today I met up with an old friend interested in trading pocket knifes, for my antique wooden chest. I’ve been packing this cool, big box around for years, but felt like swapping it out for smaller items I can potentially trade or sell later.

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I got this ornate chest in Tigard, OR at a St. Vincent De Pauls for $40 or so. I was going to restore it, but liked the rough, vintage look, and couldn’t bring myself to refinish the wood. I never cleaned the tin exterior either. It made a great shoe box for awhile, but I had my eye on a stash of Swiss Army knives my buddy acquired from an estate sale. We are both hustlers, so I felt like meeting to get some deals going.

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I picked these 18 multitools out of my friend’s collection. I will end up putting a few in small emergency caches to be buried. Some will be gifts, and others I will use for odd jobs. A couple have lights built in too. It felt good to trade for items that won’t be a burden to move. I’m always traveling, so bulk is bad. I will do more deals with this contact, and the possibilities are endless with online networking. Don’t miss out. Be social.

Collector’s West Gun And Knife Show Review In Portland OR

Posted: February 17, 2013 in Adventures, News, Product Reviews
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Yesterday I checked out the Collector’s West Gun & Knife show in PDX.  It was a big event, with tons of vendors, and people trading gear too.  I took home a few things, and learned a lot.

The show ends today, but visit www.collectorswest.com to see when it will be in your area.  It’s worth the $12 for admission, and $8 for parking.  I was able to price out stuff I’m interested in, and get my hands on it too.  There were deals galore on new and used guns.  Booths had closeouts on every style and brand of knive imaginable.  Coast Products was there.  My friend got a powerful LED keychain light from them. 

I also ran into my buddy Shawn Gregory.  He makes quality “Predator Paracord” bracelets, gun slings, lanyards, and more.  I got a few samples to test, including the badass band below.  It’s comfortable, and stands out.  You can never have too much cordage just in case.  More on Predator Paracord later, but go to www.predatorparacord.com to see all of his bold designs. 

The Girl Scouts were also in the house.  I walked quickly by them, because I was saving room for Voodoo doughnuts, but it was great to see kids at a gun show.  It was a safe enviroment, and fun for everyone.  It’s important to teach kids about preparedness early.   

I found another company with a product called 4EverLights, (www.uvpaqlite.com) with epic reusable glow-in-the-dark lights.   They have a huge variety of sizes, and styles that really do work.  I had to get some to test and review for Survival Bros.  Sunlight isn’t required, so you can quickly charge them with a flashlight, or whatever.  I like that they don’t affect my night vision either like brighter light sources would.  Ya best believe one is going on my bug out bag, and with me camping.

It was a great show.  If you missed it, there will be another soon.  Just get to one, and get prepared.  You never know when you’ll be faced with a crisis. Plus, a gun show is an excellent place to network with other serious preppers. 

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Kershaw Blur Glassbreaker Knife Stress Test And Review (MODEL 1670GBBLKST)

Posted: February 15, 2013 in Product Reviews
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kershaw blur gbThis is the blade I carry every day.  It’s the famous Kershaw Blur, but with a carbide tip designed to shatter glass with ease.  It does, as you can see in my video review below.  

I’ve been testing the Kershaw Blur for 2 months now.  I love it.  It’s quality, and produced locally in Tualatin, OR.  I rep gear made in the USA as much as possible, especially Oregon.  The first thing that fascinated me with the knife is the unique design.  It’s beautiful.  Simple.  Elegant.  The subtle curves are sexy.  I couldn’t wait to get her out of the box.  Initially, I noticed how fine the blade is.  It’s razor sharp.  Also, I was impressed with how well the scallops cut.  Slicing through materials like cardboard, plastic, rope, and paper is effortless, and so is opening it, thanks to the SpeedSafe assist.  It flies out, and feels extremely secure in place with the liner lock.

Another excellent feature is the rigid angled thumb studs.  You wouldn’t believe how easy it is to grip the nubs, and whip it out.  Kershaw really made something special with the Blur.  They even upgraded the steel in this new version to Sandvik 14C28N with DLC coating.  So it’s tough.  Which brings me to the tiny carbide tip embedded in the aircraft aluminum handle.  People don’t even notice the special tip at first, but believe me, it works.  I broke a sheet of glass in my video, plus several bottles with minimal effort.  The glass breaking feature is one I have to have on my EDC knife.  It could save my life if I’m ever trapped in a vehicle, and it’s not bad for self defense either.  

The Kershaw Blur is a great size, and light at only 4.2 ounces.  I like the blade length too, at 3 3/8″.  The overall length is 7 7/8″, and 4 1/2″ closed.  And the belt clip is removable, so you can have the tip up or down.  In the end, this is the knife I trust with my life right now.  It’s blacked out, and stealth.  But above all, it’s well made, and sharp as hell.  Survival Bros gives it 5 Stars.  I can’t complain about it at all, besides the handles getting a little scratched up after smashing so much glass.  I go into more detail in my HD video review below.  Please comment, and feel free to ask me any questions about it.  Thanks for visiting Survival Bros – Emergency Preparedness.

Visit http://kershaw.kaiusaltd.com/ for more.

Visiting The Pacific Northwest Sportsmen’s Show At The Portland Expo Center

Posted: February 7, 2013 in Adventures, Product Reviews, SB Tips
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gear

The Portland Expo Center is hosting the 38th annual Pacific Northwest Sportsman’s show from February 6 – 10, 2013.  I went on opening day.  It was $8 to park, and another $12 for admission.  I made the trip worthwhile, checking out every booth and demonstration.

This show has something for every adventurer.  There’s boating, rving, and fishing exhibits, to name a few.  So if you’re looking for gear, or ideas on where to travel, this is for you.  I was impressed with the high amount of outfitters around.  There’s a guide for everything under the sun.  Most were for hunting trips, but I saw whitewater rafting experts offering their services too.  I liked talking up the small, mom and pop vendors with interesting, lesser known products.  My favorite item I found is called Squat Strap (www.squatmonkey.com).  It’s a strap that wraps around a tree, or rock to help support you while you go poop.  Brilliant.  Now I can read a business book outside, while doing my business.  I had to get a strap to test.  More on that soon. 

I also talked to a local inventor named Andy Gorman.  He developed the Retractable Tool Tether, so you stop dropping things (www.retractabletooltether.com).  I picked up a few of these to review also.  I’ll put one on my jacket, and one on my EDC backpack.  Maybe I will stop losing things.  Doubtful.

There was lots to peruse, and stuff to sample.  I tasted storable foods, oils, jams, meats, and energy drinks.  Skoal was giving away cans of chew, put I passed.  The Expo was serving beer as well.  And at one booth you could try panning for gold, or buy a small nugget.  Fun, but I will be panning outside.  I shopped knives too, and picked up product catalogs to browse later.   If you like the outdoors better than the indoors, visit this show before it’s gone.   

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Survival Straps Military Spec 550 Paracord Bracelet Review

Posted: January 17, 2013 in Product Reviews
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By Cameron McKirdy

Lately I’ve been rocking a variety of Survival Straps paracord bracelets. Maybe you’ve noticed them in my videos. You’ve probably seen bands like these before, but Survival Straps has taken it to the next level.

These stylish and functional Survival Straps were made in right here in America. They are an innovative company, and they give back. To date they’ve donated more than $722,000 to The Wounded Warrior Project. This program helps soldiers tremendously. I rock my Wounded Warrior Project Survival Strap often. It’s comfortable. I like the marine grade stainless steel adjustable clasp, but it also came with a plastic breakaway pin you can put in for safety. Plus, if you ever need to use the 15 feet or so of cordage, Survival Straps will send you a replacement bracelet. This is an every day carry item you should have for preparedness.

I haven’t taken my Survival Strap apart yet, but when the need arises, I will. There are many varieties and styles on their website http://www.survivalstraps.com Check them out. There’s something for every prepper, and they are reasonably priced. Most cost around $30 or less. I see great value in them. They are made of the finest 550 paracord. You’ll find a color and style that matches your personality. Below is a few cool designs I’ve been wearing. I haven’t had any issue with these. They feel great. Survival Bros approves 100%.

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Using Alternative Modes Of Transportation – From Hitchhiking To Busing

Posted: December 13, 2012 in Adventures, Comedy and Art, SB Tips
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A few years ago I gave up my Cadillac. It was a waste of money to operate, and I love being active anyways. This blog is about my use of alternative transportation, while surviving on the Oregon Coast.

Riding my mountain bike has been option #1. It’s way cheaper to use than a car. I’ve had to repair my Mongoose several times, but at least I can do some of the work. It’s not like a computerized vehicle, where I have no chance of fixing it. I’ve saved thousands of dollars by not driving, and haven’t had to get a real job. It’s allowed me to do things like run this blog, and avoid the rat race entirely.

I also love walking. I have rain gear and an umbrella, so I don’t have an excuse to not get outside. If course Oregonians don’t actually use umbrellas, but I know how to. The key for me is being comfortable moving around outdoors. I have a variety of shoes for the job, including boots for mud, sandals for the beach, and light running kicks too. Plus, I make sure to have rain gear on hand, or at least an emergency rain poncho just in case. I walk many miles each week. It keeps me loose, and strong.

This summer I also made a point to hitchhike. I walked along Highway 101 for a few hours before someone finally swooped me. The trick is to find a place where drivers can pull off the road, and staying in that open area. The gentleman that picked me up told me about his days thumbing on the road. He told me to bring toilet paper or I’d be sorry. Hitchhiking isn’t a viable option really. You can’t rely on others like that, especially if your in a hurry. But it was fun trying, and I will get around that way again for the hell if it.

I’ve been riding the bus at least once a week too. It’s great because in December you can donate a can of grub to the food bank for a free pass. Most riders have been taking advantage of that offer, unless they already have a monthly bus pass. You meet all sorts of people on the bus. Some want to borrow my phone, while others feel like talking the entire trip while I listen to music. Still, I like riding the bus. It’s a giant carpool, and less damaging to the environment than if everyone drove a car.

I have said cars are for lazy people. I think that’s true, especially if you never use your own power to get around town. We sit so much as it is anyways. I will own a vehicle again, but there’s no hurry. I’m more free without one. Less is more. Good luck getting to your destination over the holidays. Remember there’s more than one way to get there. I have Rollerblades too. Lol. Peace.
– Cameron McKirdy

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Rain Gear Setup List & Video For Trail Running On The Oregon Coast

Posted: November 17, 2012 in Adventures, Product Reviews, SB Tips, Sports
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This is one bro’s layering technique for staying warm and dry while running in the rain.

Survival Bros rain running clothing example:

  • Durable gloves
  • Synthetic tall wool socks
  • Columbia Running Footwear
  • Columbia Performance pants/shorts
  • Columbia High-visibility rain pants
  • Long sleeve Nike Dri-Fit shirt (wicks moisture)
  • Nike All Conditions Gear (ACG) Fleece Vest
  • Nike Rain Shell Jacket with air vents and pockets
  • Beanie/Hat (optional)

Survival Bros Tsunami Preparedness Go Bag Items Photo

Posted: August 31, 2012 in Product Reviews, SB Tips, Survival Bros Challenges, Uncategorized
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If you live near the ocean, you should be prepared for a tsunami. NO EXCUSES. Put together a backpack with all the essentials, and have it on hand. Here’s Survival Bros example of a Go Bag, or emergency Bug-Out-Bag. You could survive at least 72 precious hours with these must-have items.

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