Please disregard the locations in the previous post. I had you in
the wrong place.

Your HTML looks very good Justin.

In your title you should either use a hyphen or just seperate Day and
Pack.

The photo of the pack is from where? If it is from the web site you
need to identify it as such. If you took it and masked/cropped it
yourself it is OK. Other than that you are ready to upload to here;

Browse Reviews-Packs-Frameless and Day Pack-Dana Designs Tokaloo
Day Pack, or go here;

http://www.backpackgeartest.org/reviews/Packs/Frameless%20Backpacks%
20and%20Day%20Packs/Dana%20Designs%20Tokaloo%20Day%20Pack/

Log in to BGT, then navigate that that folder. Click "Upload Report,"
be sure to select the "Owner Review" button, and follow the
instructions to upload your HTML file and pictures (if any).

Thanks for the Owner Review. One down, one to go.

Ray

Karl, could you correct your link to Asolo asap. It presently goes to
Crocs.

Best,

Ted.

Hi Ray.
made some minor changes, and uploaded the final to the new folder.
thanks!
new report coming up...

Ray -

Edits included below, also in test folder here: http://tinyurl.com/oeasv

Thanks!

Ben

Owner Review –
Nesco American Harvest Snackmaster Express FD-60 Dehydrator

Reviewer Profile
Name: 	 Ben Mansfield
Age: 	 29
Gender: 	 Male
Height: 	 6'0" (1.8 m)
Weight: 	 180 lbs (81.7 kg)
e-mail Address:  benmansfield27 AT gmail DOT com
City, State, Country: North Ridgeville, OH, USA
Date: 	 28 August 2006

Backpacking Background

Over the past 15 years or so, I've tried to average at least one
weekend trip per month year round, primarily in PA, WV, and VA.
During the last 8 years, I've tried to take a weeklong trip somewhere
further, but still usually in the eastern US.  I have hiked many
sections of the AT, and am planning to backpack the 100 Mile
Wilderness in Maine next year.  I consider myself a mid-weight hiker,
preferring some luxury over an ultralight load.  I am also an avid fly
fisherman, mountain biker, and snow skier, and enjoy sailing my
homemade dinghy.

Product Information

Manufacturer:  Nesco/American Harvest
Model: 	 American Harvest Snackmaster Express FD-60
Manufacturer URL: http://www.nesco.com
Product Description: Food Dehydrator
MSRP: 	 $59.95 (website)

[picture of dehydrator assembled]
[picture of dehydrator components]

Detailed Product Description

The Nesco/American Harvest Snackmaster Express FD-60 Food Dehydrator
is an entry-level food dehydrator.  It comes with four trays and a
solid sheet for drying liquids and making fruit leathers.  According
to the manufacturer, the FD-60 is capable of supporting up to twelve
trays.  A number of other accessories are also available, including a
fine mesh screen for drying smaller solids that would otherwise fall
through the openings in the standard trays.

The unit is white, and the four trays interlock and sit on top of the
base, which has three slotted openings placed around the bottom to
allow moist air to escape.  The domed top includes the heater and fan
assembly, as well as an adjustable thermostat.  Around the thermostat
dial are seven temperature indications, ranging from 95 F (35 C) to
155 F (68 C).  The thermostat is infinitely adjustable through this
range, so that the user is not forced to choose one of the seven
temperatures.  The rated power consumption of the unit is 500 W (500 J/s).

With all four trays installed, the unit measures approximately 9.5"
(24 cm) high.  The individual trays are each 1.25" (3.2 cm) high and
13.5" (34.3 cm) in diameter.

The dehydrator package also includes an instruction guide that
includes not only care and cleaning instructions, but also helpful
hints for dehydrating food (such as suggested temperatures for
different foods) and a variety of recipes.


Personal Use & Impression

Use Experience
I have owned this dehydrator for one year, and have dehydrated over 20
batches with it.  I tend to dry mainly fruit and jerky, but have done
a few trays of vegetables and flowers.  I have not made fruit
leathers, as I don't really care for them.

Temperature Control
Using an instant read thermometer inserted into one of the openings at
the bottom of the unit, I have verified that the actual bottom
temperature reached is within +/- 2 % of the thermostat setting.  The
instruction manual includes recommended temperature settings for
different materials being dried.  For times when I dry several trays
of fruit along with several trays of jerky, I tend to set the
temperature between the two recommended temperature settings, erring
on the high side when meat is involved.

Drying Times
I find that drying times are a bit shorter for meat and a bit longer
for fruit than what the manual recommends.  However, the ranges given
in the instructions are quite broad.  This discrepancy is perhaps
because I tend to cut meat a bit thinner, and fruit a bit thicker,
than the recommended sizes.  I also tend to leave more empty tray
space on meat, and pack the fruit and vegetables a little closer
together which can hinder air flow a bit.

Food Preparation
To prepare meat for jerky, I first trim as much fat as possible off of
the piece of meat.  It is important to eliminate as much fat as
possible, as it will allow the dried jerky to last much longer.  I
then tenderize the meat using a mallet, and apply a dry rub consisting
of salt, pepper, and a blend of spices that varies depending on what
flavor I'm making.  I also prepare a marinade (the recipe of which
also varies depending on variety), which typically consists of
Worchester Sauce, Soy Sauce, and liquid smoke.  I have added other
ingredients in the past, but these three ingredients are typically the
main ones.  I then slice the meat, some pieces with the grain and some
against the grain to get a variety of textures.  I allow the meat to
marinate for a day or so, stirring a few times to ensure consistent
coverage before laying it out on the trays.

To prepare fruit or vegetables, it's simply a matter of peeling or
skinning (if necessary – for things like pineapple) and slicing it
into uniform size pieces.  For some fruits, such as apples, I give it
a quick citrus bath in lemon or lime juice to prevent it from
browning.  The fruit is then laid out on the trays for drying.

Operation
Once the food to be dried is prepared, I lay it out on the trays,
trying to keep the individual pieces from touching.  The trays are
stacked on the base, and the head unit is placed on top.  I turn the
thermostat to the appropriate temperature setting for the food that
I'm drying.  There is no on/off switch, so the unit turns on
immediately when plugged in.

Once running, I typically check the food once per hour to ensure even
drying.  For jerky, it is necessary to occasionally dab the surface of
the meat with a paper towel to absorb any liquid that has risen to the
top.  Although the instructions indicate that tray rotation is not
necessary, I sometimes do rotate the trays if I don't think I'm
getting adequate air flow, or if the trays are drying at different
rates.  I also tend to turn the food over at least once per drying
session to ensure that both sides dry evenly.  While this is probably
not necessary, I find that it gives a more even texture through the
entire piece.

As some pieces do tend to dry faster than others, I often remove
smaller or thinner pieces as they are finished to prevent over drying.
  Food is done when tearing it shows no moisture beads on the inside.
Different foods will dry differently; for example, apples will often
be crisp, whereas pineapples will remain pliable but show minimal
moisture if torn.

Once all the food is done, I remove it from the trays, allow it to
cool, and package it in vacuum sealed bags.  I label each package with
the contents and the date it was prepared, then typically place the
sealed packages in the freezer if I don't intend to eat it within a
week or so.

I'm not sure how long food prepared in this way will last in the
freezer or on a shelf, but I have eaten a variety of dried foods that
have been vacuum sealed and frozen up to six months after dehydrating.
  I have not noticed any degradation in flavor or texture after six
months of storage.  I don't store any dehydrated food outside of the
freezer for longer than a few weeks, but the instruction manual
indicates that shelf life of dehydrated food increases 3 to 4 times
for every 18 F (10 C) drop in storage temperature.

Cleaning
The individual trays are top-shelf dishwasher safe.  I typically rinse
or scrape off any large pieces of residue left from the dehydrating
process, then stagger the trays in my dishwasher.  All four trays and
the bottom piece barely fit into my dishwasher in this manner, and
little space is left for anything else.  However, this method is much
simpler than trying to wash the trays by hand, as there are many tiny
spaces in the plastic grids of each tray.

The top unit cannot be submerged in water, as the unit is not sealed
from water ingress which could cause a short or other damage.  Though
I don't typically get any food on the unit, I do wipe it with a damp
cloth after each use.

Summary
I received this dehydrator as a gift, and have been very happy with
it.  I have been able to make a wide variety of trail foods that will
keep much longer than fresh food, but still retain their nutritional
value and flavor.  I enjoy trying out different recipes for foods like
jerky that need prepared, and dried fruit is a great snack on the
trail or in the office.

What I like
1. Ease of use
2. Simple to clean in the dishwasher
3. Good included instruction manual with recipes

What I dislike
1. No on/off switch

What my wife dislikes
1. Making jerky makes the house smell like drying meat




--- In BackpackGearTest@yahoogroups.com, "rayestrella1"
<rayestrella@...> wrote:
>
> Hi Ben,
>
> Nice review. I have one of their Gardenmaster Pro units and got it
> just for jerky. Some day I am going to experiment with some hiking
> foods too.
>
> Edits follow. After making the changes you can REPOST here and put a
> HTML version in the test folders. Let me know when you do.
>
> Ray
>
> ***Nesco American Harvest Express FD-60 Dehydrator
>
> EDIT: According to the manufacturer this is called the American
> Harvest "Snackmaster Express" FD-60.
>
>
> ***It comes with four trays and a solid sheet drying liquids
>
> EDIT: a solid sheet "for" drying liquids…
>
>
> ***With all four trays installed, the unit measures approximately
> 9.5"
> (24 cm).
>
> EDIT: 9.5" "high"?
>
>
> ***For time when I dry several trays of fruit along with several
> trays of jerky,
>
> EDIT: For time"s" when I dry…
>

Below is the text version for my OR of the CamelBak StowAway
hydration pack, the html version is on the web.

Thanks,

Mike

------------------------------------------------------------------------
----

CamelBak StoAway Hydration Pack - Owner Review

by Mike Lipay - August 29, 2006

Personal Information
Name  Mike Lipay
Age  51
Gender  Male
Height  5 ft 8 in (1.73 m)
Weight  180 lb (81.65 kg)
Email  hiking AT westernpa DOT us
City, State Plum Boro, Pennsylvania
Background I've been hiking and backpacking since the '60s. I enjoy
hiking solo, with my kids, or with local hiking groups. I have taught
LNT skills, wilderness survival, and outdoor first-aid. I am no ultra-
light backpacker (my pack typically weighs 29-40 lb (13-18 kg)
loaded), although I am always looking for ways to cut down on the
weight. I'm a low-techie, preferring a hiking staff to trekking
poles, compass to GPS, fire to fuel; but I am open to new products
when there is a distinct advantage over more traditional "technology".

Product Information
Manufacturer CamelBak
Website  http://www.CamelBak.com
MSRP  $35 USD
Year Mfgr 2005
Purchased August 2005
Description Fits CamelBak-compatible packs perfectly! Our StoAway
slips easily into the hydration pocket of your backcountry pack, or
use the convenient D-Rings to strap it anywhere. And, external access
to the OMEGA fillport makes the StoAway a breeze to fill, keeping you
out enjoying the snow longer.
* Durable exterior is abrasion-resistant and lightweight
* Includes carry tether for easy loading and transport
* Insulated Tube and Bite Valve covers help keep water from freezing
* External access to the OMEGA Reservoir makes filliing fast and easy

Warranty Free from defects in material and workmanship for a period
of two years from the date of purchase. The warranty is limited to
the original purchaser of the product and is not transferrable.
During the two year warranty period, CamelBak will repair or replace,
at its option, only the defective part of the pack, reservoir, Bite
Valve or outer pack at no additional charge.

Specifications
Manufacturer
Capacity: 72 oz (2 L) - NOTE: 72 oz coverts to 2.1 L; 2 L is 68 oz.
No other measurements are listed in the product information or the
website.

Tester
Capacity: 61 oz (1.8 L) Capacity was determined by starting off with
a measured 68 oz (2 L), holding the StowAway vertically, then pouring
the water in until it reached the bottom of the opening. I then
measured the remaining liquid, which came out to 7 oz (200 ml).
Length:  18 in (46 cm)
Width:  8 in (20cm)
Opening: 3.5 in (9 cm)
Review  Most people are familiar with bladders, or hydration packs,
these days: light-weight, collapsable, food-grade plastic containers
whose primary purpose is to carry drinking water. These light-weight
wonders have all but replaces the age-old canteens. However, unlike
the canteens they replace, bladders (and their contents) suffer from
exposure to the elements -- heat in the summer and freezing cold in
the winter. In the past I have stuffed them inside my backpack,
hoping that the contents of the pack would keep the water inside the
bladder from freezing (or getting hot). This worked fine for the most
part, but offered no real solution for day hikes, or side trips from
a base camp, when I wasn't carrying my pack.

At the start of the winter hiking season (so far as gear buying is
concerned), my local outfitter had it's usual sale, and I was there
checking out the new stuff. I spotted the CamelBak StoAway with the
other hydration packs and read it's hang tag. The idea of a hydration
pack that would keep my water from freezing quickly caught my
attention and, even though the sale cost was a bit more that I would
normally pay for a bladder, I quickly bought it, feeling that if it
kept my water from freezing it would be worth the price.

While it was still warm (September), and I had no concerns about my
water freezing, I couldn't wait to give the StoAway a try. Utilizing
the D-Rings, and a quick-strap, I fashioned a method to carry it
without a backpack. The StoAway hung well against my back, not
sliding or shifting while I walked. For the next 3 months I hiked
with it every chance I got so as to get use to using the StoAway. I
quickly discovered that I liked the bite valve cover as it kept the
valve from picking up dirt when I stopped for lunch breaks (resting
it against a tree or bolder).

One problem did appear during this use: filling the wide-mouth
bottle, while easy at home, was not that easy in the field. You can't
lay the bottle down to fill it up because the back of the pack will
come to rest against the mouth of the bottle. The StoAway has to be
held vertically while filling, a neat trick while using a purifier
pump (Oh, for an intelligent octopus). Even my Ster-pen was difficult
to use, trying to hold the pen in the bottle, push the activator
button, and swish the water around without it splashing out. This is
definately a bottle made more for chemical purification than
mechanical, although mechanical is not impossible.

Winter came in December and while there wasn't much snow this winter
there were plenty of days when the temps dipped below the freezing
point, mostly on weekends (of course). The StoAway worked just as
promised, regardless of the temperatures the water in my StoAway
never froze. At night, just to be safe, I would drain the tube back
into the bottle so that I would not have to contend with a frozen
tube in the morning. I kept the StoAway itself in the bottom of my
sleeping bag or, on milder nights, just inside the tent.

When the summer came, rather than storing it until next season, I
figured I would see how well the StoAway kept drinks cool. Now, this
isn't the advertised usage for the pack, but what guy ever stays
within published guidelines? The wide mouth on the StoAway was
perfect for loading ice cubes. I would load as much ice into the pack
as I could fit, then fill it the rest of the way with cold water.
Even though the temperatures reached into the upper 80's F (29+ C)
the water stayed cool for a good 8 hours. After working with it for a
while what I eventually did was to half-fill the StoAway with water
then put it into the freezer overnight, next morning I would fill it
the rest of the way with refrigerated water. This worked out just as
well, and was easier than working with ice cube trays.


Conclusions

Pros
Keeps water from freezing
Bite valve cover keeps dirt from accumulating when set on the ground
Keeps water cool in the summer

Cons
Somewhat difficult to fill in the field from a purifier pump
Lid forms a tight seal, sometimes it is difficult to turn

Personal Comments The CamelBak StoAway does what it is intended to
do, it keeps water from freezing during an average day hike, and,
with precautions, will do so overnight as well. Additionally, the
StoAway does a good job of of keeping water cool in the summer, with
the addition of ice cubes. I would gladly recommend purchasing the
StoAway if there is any concern about water freezing during a trip.

I am sorry Justin, but when looking at your finish product I noticed
the manufacturer's web site the way you have it. While the hyperlink
works fine it needs to be spelled out as so, www.danadesign.com in
case the link breaks and a reader needs to manually type it in.

Also you changed this line,

"Fabric: LTD & 420 HT - (Low Tenacity Denier and 420 High Tenacity
Denier. It appears that the entire outside of the pack consists of
the 420 HT fabric, the interior is lined with the LT product.)"

As I mentioned in the edits HT does stand for High Tenacity. 420 is
the denier. It is not 420 High Tenacity Denier. We can't put words
in their mouths. :-) I do not think LTD stands for Low Tenacity.
That would be saying it is weak. Not a good marketing point. Here is
the actual description of it from Marmot. "LTD nylon – 500d X 1000d
combo of high tencity nylon for tear strength and Cordura for
abrasion resistance." So you see that it is even higher denier than
the 420. And it would undoubtably be used on the highest wear areas,
not the lining. (You made me do a lot of research, mister!)

We are better off leaving things that we are unsure of the way they
have them. I understand as I always try to explain things myself,
sometimes wrongly. (Right, Roger?)

You should be able to delete your review and repost a corrected one
for the next few days. Give me a yell if you need help. I am looking
forward to your next review.

Ray

All right Ben, it looks great. I wish my second OR was this good,
heck, I wish my fourth was…

I have only one edit for you.

***I also tend to leave more empty tray space on meat,

Edit: This reads wrong. How about something like "I also tend to
leave more space empty on the tray when drying meat"?

Once everything is ready to go, you may upload your final HTML
report on BGT at:

Reviews – food Preparation – Dehydrators – Nesco- American Harvest
FD-60 or go here;

http://www.backpackgeartest.org/reviews/Food%20Preparation%
20Gear/Dehydrators/Nesco-American%20Harvest%20Express%20FD-60/

When uploading your Owner Review, please ensure you select the
button marked Owner Review.

If you require assistance with your upload, please ask in our Yahoo!
support group,

BGTFileUploadHelp @

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/BGTFileUploadHelp/>http://groups.yahoo.
com/group/\BGTFileUploadHelp/

As this is your second approved review, if you have submitted a
Tester Agreement, for which see:

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/BackpackGearTest/files/1%20BGT-Tester%
20Agreement%20Docs/

that has been acknowledged, you are now eligible to participate in
the testing process by applying for tests. If you have not sent your
paperwork in, please do so at your earliest opportunity.

For further details see

http://www.backpackgeartest.org/lesson.php?lesson=BecomeTester&page=9

You will also need to join:

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/backpackgeartesters/>http://groups.yaho
o.com/group/backpackgeartesters/

This is where everything related to Tests and Testing takes place.

However, please don't stop writing Owner Reviews. The more Owner
Reviews you write, the better you will get at report writing and
this won't go unnoticed when Test Moderators are choosing testers.

Congratulations!

Raymond Estrella

Back after a great backpacking weekend.

Pam Wyant

Ray,

All set.  File is uploaded here: http://tinyurl.com/e8fjj.

I guess I should point out that this is my third OR... I'm not sure if
it matters - Maybe only if there's some kind of list or counter or
something, but if I did anything out of order or wrong with the second
one, I'd like to correct it.  It was edited, approved, and uploaded.
My second one was here: http://tinyurl.com/flw6y.

At any rate, thanks for your help and 'at-a-boys.

Ben

--- In BackpackGearTest@yahoogroups.com, "rayestrella1"
<rayestrella@...> wrote:
>
> All right Ben, it looks great. I wish my second OR was this good,
> heck, I wish my fourth was…
>
> I have only one edit for you.
>
> ***I also tend to leave more empty tray space on meat,
>
> Edit: This reads wrong. How about something like "I also tend to
> leave more space empty on the tray when drying meat"?
>
> Once everything is ready to go, you may upload your final HTML
> report on BGT at:
>
> Reviews – food Preparation – Dehydrators – Nesco- American Harvest
> FD-60 or go here;
>
> http://www.backpackgeartest.org/reviews/Food%20Preparation%
> 20Gear/Dehydrators/Nesco-American%20Harvest%20Express%20FD-60/
>
> When uploading your Owner Review, please ensure you select the
> button marked Owner Review.
>
> If you require assistance with your upload, please ask in our Yahoo!
> support group,
>
> BGTFileUploadHelp @
>
> http://groups.yahoo.com/group/BGTFileUploadHelp/>http://groups.yahoo.
> com/group/\BGTFileUploadHelp/
>
> As this is your second approved review, if you have submitted a
> Tester Agreement, for which see:
>
> http://groups.yahoo.com/group/BackpackGearTest/files/1%20BGT-Tester%
> 20Agreement%20Docs/
>
> that has been acknowledged, you are now eligible to participate in
> the testing process by applying for tests. If you have not sent your
> paperwork in, please do so at your earliest opportunity.
>
> For further details see
>
> http://www.backpackgeartest.org/lesson.php?lesson=BecomeTester&page=9
>
> You will also need to join:
>
> http://groups.yahoo.com/group/backpackgeartesters/>http://groups.yaho
> o.com/group/backpackgeartesters/
>
> This is where everything related to Tests and Testing takes place.
>
> However, please don't stop writing Owner Reviews. The more Owner
> Reviews you write, the better you will get at report writing and
> this won't go unnoticed when Test Moderators are choosing testers.
>
> Congratulations!
>
> Raymond Estrella
>

Ben,

Have no fear--all three of your ORs are on BGT, and they will have
been recorded. The mods have a record, but generally speaking it's not
needed for editing.

Best,

Ted

BGT OR Editor

--- In BackpackGearTest@yahoogroups.com, "ben.mansfield"
<benmansfield27@...> wrote:
>
> Ray,
>
> All set.  File is uploaded here: http://tinyurl.com/e8fjj.
>
> I guess I should point out that this is my third OR... I'm not sure if
> it matters - Maybe only if there's some kind of list or counter or
> something, but if I did anything out of order or wrong with the second
> one, I'd like to correct it.  It was edited, approved, and uploaded.
> My second one was here: http://tinyurl.com/flw6y.
>
> At any rate, thanks for your help and 'at-a-boys.
>
> Ben
>
> --- In BackpackGearTest@yahoogroups.com, "rayestrella1"
> <rayestrella@> wrote:
> >
> > All right Ben, it looks great. I wish my second OR was this good,
> > heck, I wish my fourth was…
> >
> > I have only one edit for you.
> >
> > ***I also tend to leave more empty tray space on meat,
> >
> > Edit: This reads wrong. How about something like "I also tend to
> > leave more space empty on the tray when drying meat"?
> >
> > Once everything is ready to go, you may upload your final HTML
> > report on BGT at:
> >
> > Reviews – food Preparation – Dehydrators – Nesco- American Harvest
> > FD-60 or go here;
> >
> > http://www.backpackgeartest.org/reviews/Food%20Preparation%
> > 20Gear/Dehydrators/Nesco-American%20Harvest%20Express%20FD-60/
> >
> > When uploading your Owner Review, please ensure you select the
> > button marked Owner Review.
> >
> > If you require assistance with your upload, please ask in our Yahoo!
> > support group,
> >
> > BGTFileUploadHelp @
> >
> > http://groups.yahoo.com/group/BGTFileUploadHelp/>http://groups.yahoo.
> > com/group/\BGTFileUploadHelp/
> >
> > As this is your second approved review, if you have submitted a
> > Tester Agreement, for which see:
> >
> > http://groups.yahoo.com/group/BackpackGearTest/files/1%20BGT-Tester%
> > 20Agreement%20Docs/
> >
> > that has been acknowledged, you are now eligible to participate in
> > the testing process by applying for tests. If you have not sent your
> > paperwork in, please do so at your earliest opportunity.
> >
> > For further details see
> >
> > http://www.backpackgeartest.org/lesson.php?lesson=BecomeTester&page=9
> >
> > You will also need to join:
> >
> > http://groups.yahoo.com/group/backpackgeartesters/>http://groups.yaho
> > o.com/group/backpackgeartesters/
> >
> > This is where everything related to Tests and Testing takes place.
> >
> > However, please don't stop writing Owner Reviews. The more Owner
> > Reviews you write, the better you will get at report writing and
> > this won't go unnoticed when Test Moderators are choosing testers.
> >
> > Congratulations!
> >
> > Raymond Estrella
> >
>

Unfortunately my camera batteries died on my last trip, so no "action"
photos.  The trailstove.com website has pics, of course.
As for adding a blower - I think it would add sufficient weight to
pretty much defeat the purpose of having a wood stove.  Maybe a squeeze
bulb would be OK, but anything using batteries would quickly start to
weigh as much as gas fuel.

drew
--- In BackpackGearTest@yahoogroups.com, "James" <tscgmg@...> wrote:
>
> --- In BackpackGearTest@yahoogroups.com, "jdsclr" regansmith@
> Any pics. could a small hand pump be attached to the blow tube?
> thanks
> tscgmg3
>

Actually, a Ti Sierra Zip stove, with AA lithium battery, already weighs
less at 11.45 oz.

Jerry


http://www.BackpackGearTest.org : the most comprehensive interactive gear
reviews and tests on the planet.


-----Original Message-----
From: BackpackGearTest@yahoogroups.com
[mailto:BackpackGearTest@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of jdsclr
Sent: Wednesday, August 30, 2006 11:07 AM
To: BackpackGearTest@yahoogroups.com
Subject: [BackpackGearTest] Re: Owner Review - Stratus Trail Stove

Unfortunately my camera batteries died on my last trip, so no "action"
photos.  The trailstove.com website has pics, of course.
As for adding a blower - I think it would add sufficient weight to pretty
much defeat the purpose of having a wood stove.  Maybe a squeeze bulb would
be OK, but anything using batteries would quickly start to weigh as much as
gas fuel.

drew
--- In BackpackGearTest@yahoogroups.com, "James" <tscgmg@...> wrote:
>
> --- In BackpackGearTest@yahoogroups.com, "jdsclr" regansmith@ Any
> pics. could a small hand pump be attached to the blow tube?
> thanks
> tscgmg3
>







To read our reviews, please visit http://www.backpackgeartest.org/ Yahoo!
Groups Links

Hi James.  Glad to see you have joined the group, and enjoy the honest
reviews we provide.  If you are interested in testing gear, or just in
writing owner reviews, I would suggest you request a mentor, who can
help you select an item for your first review, and in general provide
guidance about the review process.

Also, you should read our "How To Become A Tester" documents,
available here:

http://www.backpackgeartest.org/lesson.php?lesson=BecomeTester&page=1

Follow the links on that page to learn more about the review and
testing process.

No need to list the type of equipment you use on this list, but when
you are ready to begin writing reviews, a mentor can assist you in
developing your biography section, which will tell a little bit about
your backpacking background, including style or the type of equipment
you use.


Pam Wyant


--- In BackpackGearTest@yahoogroups.com, "tscgmg" <tscgmg@...> wrote:
>
> Howdy all, names James go by TSCGMG or TSCGMG3 have been on and off
> hiker camper since 10 now 38, navy vet got to do some small campouts
> in a few diffrent countrys,  and about 4 diffrent states.  mostly
> familey camp now. i am what you call a military camper. 98% of gear
is
> military issue or surplus. but see all e new gear out there gald to
> see honest evals on stuff. hate wasteing the budget on junk.  am i
> supposed to list the type of equipment i we use?
>

PLEASE READ THIS EMAIL IN FULL. IT IS MOST IMPORTANT!

Thanks for your Owner's Review.  It has been added to the Owner
Review Queue and will be picked up by an Edit Moderator soon.  Do
not worry if nothing happens with it for several days.  All our
Editors are volunteers and your report will be subject to an
official edit within fourteen days. If you have not had a response
from an Edit Moderator via the Yahoo Groups list within this
timeframe, please let me know directly at jdeben@....

To assist in this process, if this is your first Owner Review we ask
that you post only ONE Owner Review for edit at a time. Our
experience is that it is more efficient for both the Editors and
yourself, if you post your first review, have it edited, approved
and uploaded before you post your second and subsequent reviews.
This way we can work with you on addressing any standard BGT policy
edits which you can incorporate into your second and subsequent
reviews before submission.

If you are new to BackpackGearTest.org, welcome to the community!
The Editors will work with you, within their own time constraints,
to get your first two Owner Reviews approved and upload in a timely
manner.  Once these first two Owner Reviews have been approved and
you have submitted your Tester Agreement you will be eligible to
start applying for Tests. If you'd like more assistance or guidance
with the process you can request a mentor by sending an email to
Jennifer P, the mentor coordinator, at (jennifer.pope@...).

You may receive edits or comments from other members of the group.
These edits and comments, while not official, should be considered
carefully, and if you find them substantial, revise and re-post your
review. Incorporating member edits and re-submitting to the list
will usually result in a better review, as well as making things
easier for the official Editor. Please put REVISED in the subject
line of your re-submitted review, if you take this route or make any
changes to your review BEFORE the review has been taken by an Edit
Moderator.

Additionally, it is important for you to monitor the Yahoo Groups
list to keep track of the progress of your Owner Review.  Once an
Editor has taken your OR and made the necessary edits they will post
their comments to the list with EDIT in the subject line.  Once you
have incorporated these edits into your review please use REPOST in
the subject line. When your OR has been approved by the Editor they
will use APPROVED in the subject line.

If you'd like to keep track of the progress of your OR, the entire
Owner Review Queue is posted to this yahoo group list on Fridays.

If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to ask via
the list or contact me directly.

Regards
Jamie DeBenedetto
Edit Administration Manager

PLEASE READ THIS EMAIL IN FULL. IT IS MOST IMPORTANT!

Thanks for your Owner's Review.  It has been added to the Owner
Review Queue and will be picked up by an Edit Moderator soon.  Do
not worry if nothing happens with it for several days.  All our
Editors are volunteers and your report will be subject to an
official edit within fourteen days. If you have not had a response
from an Edit Moderator via the Yahoo Groups list within this
timeframe, please let me know directly at jdeben@....

To assist in this process, if this is your first Owner Review we ask
that you post only ONE Owner Review for edit at a time. Our
experience is that it is more efficient for both the Editors and
yourself, if you post your first review, have it edited, approved
and uploaded before you post your second and subsequent reviews.
This way we can work with you on addressing any standard BGT policy
edits which you can incorporate into your second and subsequent
reviews before submission.

If you are new to BackpackGearTest.org, welcome to the community!
The Editors will work with you, within their own time constraints,
to get your first two Owner Reviews approved and upload in a timely
manner.  Once these first two Owner Reviews have been approved and
you have submitted your Tester Agreement you will be eligible to
start applying for Tests. If you'd like more assistance or guidance
with the process you can request a mentor by sending an email to
Jennifer P, the mentor coordinator, at (jennifer.pope@...).

You may receive edits or comments from other members of the group.
These edits and comments, while not official, should be considered
carefully, and if you find them substantial, revise and re-post your
review. Incorporating member edits and re-submitting to the list
will usually result in a better review, as well as making things
easier for the official Editor. Please put REVISED in the subject
line of your re-submitted review, if you take this route or make any
changes to your review BEFORE the review has been taken by an Edit
Moderator.

Additionally, it is important for you to monitor the Yahoo Groups
list to keep track of the progress of your Owner Review.  Once an
Editor has taken your OR and made the necessary edits they will post
their comments to the list with EDIT in the subject line.  Once you
have incorporated these edits into your review please use REPOST in
the subject line. When your OR has been approved by the Editor they
will use APPROVED in the subject line.

If you'd like to keep track of the progress of your OR, the entire
Owner Review Queue is posted to this yahoo group list on Fridays.

If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to ask via
the list or contact me directly.

Regards
Jamie DeBenedetto
Edit Administration Manager

PLEASE READ THIS EMAIL IN FULL. IT IS MOST IMPORTANT!

Thanks for your Owner's Review.  It has been added to the Owner
Review Queue and will be picked up by an Edit Moderator soon.  Do
not worry if nothing happens with it for several days.  All our
Editors are volunteers and your report will be subject to an
official edit within fourteen days. If you have not had a response
from an Edit Moderator via the Yahoo Groups list within this
timeframe, please let me know directly at jdeben@....

To assist in this process, if this is your first Owner Review we ask
that you post only ONE Owner Review for edit at a time. Our
experience is that it is more efficient for both the Editors and
yourself, if you post your first review, have it edited, approved
and uploaded before you post your second and subsequent reviews.
This way we can work with you on addressing any standard BGT policy
edits which you can incorporate into your second and subsequent
reviews before submission.

If you are new to BackpackGearTest.org, welcome to the community!
The Editors will work with you, within their own time constraints,
to get your first two Owner Reviews approved and upload in a timely
manner.  Once these first two Owner Reviews have been approved and
you have submitted your Tester Agreement you will be eligible to
start applying for Tests. If you'd like more assistance or guidance
with the process you can request a mentor by sending an email to
Jennifer P, the mentor coordinator, at (jennifer.pope@...).

You may receive edits or comments from other members of the group.
These edits and comments, while not official, should be considered
carefully, and if you find them substantial, revise and re-post your
review. Incorporating member edits and re-submitting to the list
will usually result in a better review, as well as making things
easier for the official Editor. Please put REVISED in the subject
line of your re-submitted review, if you take this route or make any
changes to your review BEFORE the review has been taken by an Edit
Moderator.

Additionally, it is important for you to monitor the Yahoo Groups
list to keep track of the progress of your Owner Review.  Once an
Editor has taken your OR and made the necessary edits they will post
their comments to the list with EDIT in the subject line.  Once you
have incorporated these edits into your review please use REPOST in
the subject line. When your OR has been approved by the Editor they
will use APPROVED in the subject line.

If you'd like to keep track of the progress of your OR, the entire
Owner Review Queue is posted to this yahoo group list on Fridays.

If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to ask via
the list or contact me directly.

Regards
Jamie DeBenedetto
Edit Administration Manager

Hi Drew,

Will you please ask a moderator to delete your previously approved
Ruff Wear Palisade II Dog Pack OR so you can reupload it with the
correct format for the date?  By now I'm sure you access has been
closed to the report.  Because we have many international readers and
testers we have a policy of writing the date out to avoid confusion.

Please fix this asap so I can add your new OR to the edit queue.

Thanks
Jamie D
Edit Admin Manager

--- In BackpackGearTest@yahoogroups.com, "chcoa" <jdeben@...> wrote:
>
> Hi Drew,
>
> Will you please ask a moderator to delete your previously approved
> Ruff Wear Palisade II Dog Pack OR so you can reupload it with the
> correct format for the date?

I deleted it. It is ready for Drew's updated review.

Ray

Karl,

Thanks for correcting the link. All OK!

Ted.

I'm not quite sure what I need to do here - reformat the date (what's
the correct format?) and resubmit the dog pack review?  I also have a
couple minor comments and additions to make to the review, should I
add these also at this time?

Drew


--- In BackpackGearTest@yahoogroups.com, "rayestrella1"
<rayestrella@...> wrote:
>
> --- In BackpackGearTest@yahoogroups.com, "chcoa" <jdeben@> wrote:
> >
> > Hi Drew,
> >
> > Will you please ask a moderator to delete your previously approved
> > Ruff Wear Palisade II Dog Pack OR so you can reupload it with the
> > correct format for the date?
>
> I deleted it. It is ready for Drew's updated review.
>
> Ray
>

--- In BackpackGearTest@yahoogroups.com, "jdsclr" <regansmith@...>
wrote:
>
> I'm not quite sure what I need to do here - reformat the date (what's
> the correct format?) and resubmit the dog pack review?  I also have a
> couple minor comments and additions to make to the review, should I
> add these also at this time?

The date should be spelled out, i.e. August 30, 2006.

Since you want to add some more to the review at the same time it
should be posted back here to be checked before uploading back to the
BGT folder.

Ray

Hear Ye!  Hear Ye!  All read this!

Please read the following carefully and be sure to understand it fully
before running around in circles having a panic attack.

1.  NO changes are being made at this time.  This announcement is strictly
to prepare all testers for changes that are projected to occur within the
next two weeks.  Once these changes are in place, many testing opportunities
will be presented.  Start sharpening those applications...


1 A   The biggest change is going to be to the method of writing and
uploading reports.

1 B.  Old reports will NOT be changed, and you will not have to rewrite any
reports.

1 C.  Tests currently in progress will NOT be changed, and will finish out
the testing process as normal.

1 D.  Your testing will NOT change.  You will still write IR, FR, and LTR on
most items, BUT these will now be condensed into one page instead of three
separate pages.

In the past, we have had the following directory structure:

TEST
   * TESTER 1 FOLDER
     * IR
     * FR
     * LTR
    * TESTER 2 FOLDER
     * IR
     * FR
     * LTR
    * TESTER 3 FOLDER
     * IR
     * FR
     * LTR

Very shortly, that structure will change to:

TEST
     * TEST REPORT (TESTER 1)
     * TEST REPORT (TESTER 2)
     * TEST REPORT (TESTER 3)

This will provide a much more streamlined experience for readers.

Don't panic.

The new report format goes like this.  Stick with me.  You will write your
Initial Report, and upload it as a Test Report.  When you create your Field
Report, you will simply add the information to the bottom of your Initial
Report, delete the Test Report and upload the new report with the Field
Report added.  Likewise with the LTR.

You should also put something at the end of reports like this:

(Initial Report)

"This concludes my Initial Report.  The Field Report should be completed by
[date].  Please check back then for further information."

(Field Report)

"This concludes my Field Report.  The Long-Term Report should be completed
by [date].  Please check back then for further information."

There will be some new report limits to support this change.  The upload
limit will change from 100,000 kilobytes to 200,000 kilobytes.  15 images
will be allowed per report.  (Remember that the report now includes IR, FR,
LTR on one page!)



All discussion regarding changes should go to the bgtweb group.

Leesa Joiner
Document Moderator


[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

hi - i just joined this list.  i'm wondering why there are so many
posts that are a conversation between 2 people.  in my mind this stuff
doesn't have to get sent to the whole group.  maybe i'm missing the
reason why this happens instead of people emailing each other 1:1.
in an ironic twist, i tried to contact the moderator directly but that
link is dead.  actually, since the moderator must approve this, s/he
can answer instead of sending it out to everyone.  thanks.

A good majority of conversation here is not necessarily between just 2
people. What happens though is that a conversation is started that is open
to many suggestions from many people. What tends to happen a lot though is
that the people online the most respond back with the answers/suggestions
the quickest. By the time a lot of other people read it, the "conversation"
has gone on a long time and most of the questions are answered. It's not
like we're talking about the big fish we caught yesterday or anything. :-P

> hi - i just joined this list.  i'm wondering why there are so many
> posts that are a conversation between 2 people.  in my mind this stuff
> doesn't have to get sent to the whole group.  maybe i'm missing the
> reason why this happens instead of people emailing each other 1:1.
> in an ironic twist, i tried to contact the moderator directly but that
> link is dead.  actually, since the moderator must approve this, s/he
> can answer instead of sending it out to everyone.  thanks.

Since others might be interested as well, I'll answer this one.

Edits are done publicly to help people understand how we edit reports. This
is extremely important for new testers so they can see how the process
works.

Public editing also allows other testers to ask questions of the tester so a
greater perspective can be brought into the report process.

This list isn't a discussion list. It is the admin list for
BackpackGearTest.org. This is where we get our work done.



Jerry


http://www.BackpackGearTest.org : the most comprehensive interactive gear
reviews and tests on the planet.


-----Original Message-----
From: BackpackGearTest@yahoogroups.com
[mailto:BackpackGearTest@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of rocklobster51
Sent: Thursday, August 31, 2006 8:06 AM
To: BackpackGearTest@yahoogroups.com
Subject: [BackpackGearTest] new to list

hi - i just joined this list.  i'm wondering why there are so many posts
that are a conversation between 2 people.  in my mind this stuff doesn't
have to get sent to the whole group.  maybe i'm missing the reason why this
happens instead of people emailing each other 1:1.
in an ironic twist, i tried to contact the moderator directly but that link
is dead.  actually, since the moderator must approve this, s/he can answer
instead of sending it out to everyone.  thanks.








To read our reviews, please visit http://www.backpackgeartest.org/ Yahoo!
Groups Links

Posting publicly also allows our Edit Administrator to track dates for
the various stages a report goes through, so she can track when
reminders might need to be sent to keep things moving on a timely
basis, or to send other necessary notices.

Pam Wyant

--- In BackpackGearTest@yahoogroups.com, "Jerry Goller"
<ChiefModerator@...> wrote:
>
> Since others might be interested as well, I'll answer this one.
>
> Edits are done publicly to help people understand how we edit
reports. This
> is extremely important for new testers so they can see how the
process
> works.
>
> Public editing also allows other testers to ask questions of the
tester so a
> greater perspective can be brought into the report process.
>

EDIT: OWNER REVIEW: Salomon Women's GCS Comp Trail Running

Hi Jo Ann,

This is a nice start to your first review. Edits will follow and
they will follow this format,

EDIT: must be changed
Edit; should be changed but will be left up to you as it could be a
style issue
Comment: just that or something to think about

When you have made the changes please REPOST here.

Ray


***Salomon Women's GCS Comp Trail Running Shoe

Edit: you may want to put a line "Owner Review" under your title


***URL: www.salomonsports.com <http://www.salomonsports.com/>

EDIT: can you just use one of the URLs and make it active?


***Listed weight: 12.7 oz (360 g)
***Weight as delivered: 12.7 oz (360 g)

EDIT: This does not jive with the information in the list lower down
in your review. One of them must be wrong. Also you can put the two
lists together as it is all product details.

***From the manufacturer's information:
The Salomon GCS Comp Shoe for women uses innovative technology to
deliver the most advanced women's off-trail running shoe of the
season. Developed by women athletes for women athletes, the GCS Comp
has an integrated Advanced Chassis stability system that prevents you
from wasting energy through lateral support. The innovative Ground
Control shock absorption system acts as suspension, adjusting to
terrain as you run, giving you a consistently stable base without
losing
energy from your stride. Made from lightweight, breathable materials,
you're feet will be well ventilated. A mudguard prevents seepage from
ruining your day and the speed lace system with lace pocket lets you
create a perfect fit.

GCS - Precision control and ground impact. The benefits of the Ground
Control System are increased stability, improved Cushioning and
reduced
torsional loads on the ankle and knees. Now the shoe adapts to the
ground, so your foot doesn't have to. Specific last, collar shape and
sole hardness based on women's input. Combining several different
hardness combinations of Contagrip, Salomon's adventure running
outsoles provide the perfect blend of grip and durability to cover
mixed terrain at high speeds. Designed with specifically placed
forefoot flex grooves, self cleaning, multi-directional lugs, and
defined toe off and braking lugs these outsoles are field tested, and
race proven to dynamically tackle any terrain.

EDIT: Instead of relying on two paragraphs of the manufacturers
marketing prose could you tell about the shoe in your own words. It
is OK to include a sentence or two from them to help explain your
point. We try to stay away from the words "you" and "your" to avoid
projection, so you will want to remove those from your review.


***The dirt does not show significantly on the shoes and they are
easy to clean with a little water and rubbing with your fingers.

EDIT: a little water and rubbing with "my" fingers. (That pesky
projection thing.)


***with a plastic slider that you press and slide along the lace to
tighten.

EDIT: the "you" again, please change all further instances.


***Location or locations where the test was conducted:

EDIT: Location or locations where the "shoes were used" or "worn",
you are reviewing them not testing them. It can get confusing with
the gear testing that we do.


***Most of the terrain was level with gradual inclines/declines,
some of
the hard packed snow trails were uneven and rough from previous
users, same goes for the muddy and slushy trails.

EDIT: "the" same goes for..


***I would anticipate that if I wore these shoes for a run along a
beach, then continued…

EDIT: "and" then continued…

EDIT: OR - CamelBak StowAway - Mike Lipay

Hi Mike,

You may want to take a look at your HTML. I am viewing it on two
computers and the "Review" section on both is crowded into a tiny
column on the left. Give me a yell when you change it and I will
take another look.

Your edits follow,

Ray

***Fits CamelBak-compatible packs perfectly! Our StoAway slips
easily into the hydration pocket of your backcountry pack, or use
the convenient D-Rings to strap it anywhere. And, external access to
the OMEGA fillport makes the StoAway a breeze to fill, keeping you
out enjoying the snow longer.

EDIT: Since you are obviously quoting the manufacturer you should
say that somewhere. If those are your words you have a lot of
projection going on. :-)

***Most people are familiar with bladders, or hydration packs, these
days:

EDIT: now you really are projecting, I bet even together you and I
don't know most people… Can you reword this?


***These light-weight wonders have all but replaces the age-old
canteens.

EDIT: replaced


***However, unlike the canteens they replace, bladders (and their
contents) suffer from exposure to the elements

Comment: canteens and bottles being steel, aluminum and later
plastic were effected by the elements also. Hence the insulated
covers made for them.


***my local outfitter had it's usual sale,

EDIT: its


***I spotted the CamelBak StoAway with the other hydration packs and
read it's hang tag.

EDIT: its


***Even my Ster-pen was difficult to use,

EDIT: SteriPEN


***This is definately a bottle made more for chemical purification
than

EDIT: definitely

Hi Drew,

The date you had listed was like this 8/31/06  we need August 31,
2006.  In this example it isn't likely to be confused by a non-
american because obviously there isn't a 31st month but if the date
were 8/12/06  the international readers wouldn't know if it was
written in Aug or Dec.

If you have some additions to the OR please repost the whole report
here and someone will take a quick look to make sure everything
looks okay.

thanks
jamie

--- In BackpackGearTest@yahoogroups.com, "jdsclr" <regansmith@...>
wrote:
>
> I'm not quite sure what I need to do here - reformat the date
(what's
> the correct format?) and resubmit the dog pack review?  I also
have a
> couple minor comments and additions to make to the review, should I
> add these also at this time?
>
> Drew
>
>
> --- In BackpackGearTest@yahoogroups.com, "rayestrella1"
> <rayestrella@> wrote:
> >
> > --- In BackpackGearTest@yahoogroups.com, "chcoa" <jdeben@> wrote:
> > >
> > > Hi Drew,
> > >
> > > Will you please ask a moderator to delete your previously
approved
> > > Ruff Wear Palisade II Dog Pack OR so you can reupload it with
the
> > > correct format for the date?
> >
> > I deleted it. It is ready for Drew's updated review.
> >
> > Ray
> >
>

This is where we get our work done.

Work? WORK? How dare you use such foul language around my vigin ears....LOL

Brian