Hi Frances,

Thank you for submitting an OR for November's call.  It sounds like you found a
really great product, unfortunately tights are a clothing item and therefore
don't exactly fit into any of the three categories we are using for the call
this month.

With the new BP system in place I'd love for you to benefit from you review so
do you want to shelve it for now and use it in the future when clothing items
are part of the call or just proceed with the edits and use it as a regular OR?

Let me know.
Jamie D
Editors Team Director

Welcome to BGT Peter

Before I can accept your Owner Review you will need to clarify the number of
days and/or nights you have used this product in the field.  Please add an
estimate of how many times you have used it to your report.  You will also want
to add field information about a few of your outings.  The phrase, "I've worn it
in all types of weather" needs to be fleshed out a bit.
Once you have added this info please repost the REVISED version to the yahoo
group.

I will take a look and if it meets our requirements I'll add the report to our
edit queue and you will be on your way to getting an official edit.

Thank you,
Jamie DeBenedetto
Editors Team Director

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. 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. 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(at)hotmail.com

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.

Once your 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 Jenn K., the mentor coordinator, at mentor (at)
backpackgeartest.org.

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 while it's in the edit
queue, the entire Owner Review Queue is posted to this yahoo group list on
either Thursdays or Fridays.

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

Regards
Jamie DeBenedetto
Editors Team Director

Welcome to BGT Ray.

Before I can accept your Owner Review you will need to clarify the number of
days and/or nights you have used this product in the field.  Please add an
estimate of how many times you have used it to your report and then repost the
REVISED version to the yahoo group.

I will take a look and if it meets our requirements I'll add the report to our
edit queue and you will be on your way to getting an official edit.

Thank you,
Jamie DeBenedetto
Editors Team Director

Hello new folks,

We are super glad you are here and hope you will be joining the ranks of our
established gear testers very soon. Below you will find some must do's if you
want your Owner Review (OR) added to our Edit Queue.  These points will make
your life and the lives of those involved with the OR process much easier. We
all appreciate you taking time to review and apply this info. BEFORE submitting
your first OR.

1. READ the "How to Become a Tester" information on the
www.backpackgeartest.org website carefully. I know at first glance the
documentation seems like a major uphill climb but as with all summits, the work
you put in ahead of time will definitely pay off as you work your way through
our process.

2. We strongly encourage new writers to write about, A. a simple piece of gear
and B. and item with which you have lots of trail time. By lots we mean a season
or more involving several days/nights in the field.  Use around town, in your
backyard, etc. does not count as field time.

3. ORs will NOT be accepted into the Owner Review Edit Queue if they do not
clearly state the number of days/nights you have used the item. Given the nature
of an Owner Review and the possible amount of years you could have owned the
item we understand it may not be possible for you to recall the exact number of
uses so an estimate is fine.

4. ORs will also not be accepted if you do not include your real full name and
email address in the Tester Bio Section.

5. We highly recommend including at least one picture in your Owner Review as
well.  Although not mandatory in the first OR, pictures are required for the 2nd
OR and all reviews of test gear so adding one or more to OR #1 is good practice.

6. Please make sure you spell check and proofread your work before posting and
reposting to the Yahoo group. You will avoid a ton of silly errors and time if
this is diligently done.

7. When you are ready to post your OR to the Yahoo group for editing please also
create an HTML version.  This version should be posted in the TEST Folder on the
www.backpackgeartest.org website. Include a link to the HTML version at the top
of the OR you submit to the Yahoo group so your editor knows where to look for
it.  You will not be able to proceed through the edit process until the HTML
version has been uploaded to the Test Folder.  If you need assistance with
converting your report to HTML please see our Report Writer on the main BGT
website.

8. When posting an OR for the first time please use this format in the subject
line…
Owner Review: Company & Product – Your Name
Here's a current example from one of our veteran testers …
OR - Injinji Tetratsok Liner - Kathy Waters

9.  When REPOSTING, meaning after your OR has been taken and edited by an editor
AND you have made all the requested corrections, please use this format in the
subject line…
REPOST: OR - Company & Product – Your Name
Ex: REPOST: OR - Sea to Summit Silk Liner - Shawn Wakefield

10. If you will be off hiking, visiting your grandchildren, having a baby,
heading an expedition to each of the 7 summits or otherwise away from email
access for more than  two or three days it is very much appreciated if you post
a note to the Yahoo group to let us know what is going on. At BGT we call this
an Out of Pocket notice or OOP. This quick note lets us know you are still
around and interested in BGT but you are away from email contact for a
predetermined length of time. Please include your name, the date you are leaving
and returning, and what ORs are affected by your absence.

Again, welcome to BGT and I hope you find this message informative. Please
direct any questions to the BackpackGearTest Yahoo group.

Cordially,
Mrs. Jamie DeBenedetto
Editors Team Director

This is the official Owner Review Edit Queue Update.  Any uploads done after
9:00 PM Pacific Time on Nov 17, 2012 will not be noted until next week's update.
If you have questions about the queue please feel free to ask.

Thank you.
Jamie DeBenedetto
Editors Team Director


=====================================================================
EDIT Team Members OOP (Out of Pocket)


=================================================================
AWAITING EDIT

BP - Theresa Lawrence - SCRAMBLES IN SOUTHWEST BRITISH COLUMBIA – Posted Nov
16(msg#81745),

====================================================================
TAKEN BY AN EDITOR/EDITED


=====================================================================
APPROVED AND AWAITING UPLOAD


====================================================================
REVIEWS ON HOLD

Stacin Martin(1) - MSR MICROROCKET – Posted Oct 22 (msg#81666), On hold pending
more field use as of Oct 23,

Frances Penn - BLACK DIAMOND FLEECE TIGHTS – Posted Nov 14 (msg#81743), On hold
pending Frances decision as of Nov 17

=================================================================
NOT ADDED to the Queue at this time

Garrett Kellams(1) – Cabela's Alaskan Guide Frame Pack – Posted Nov 7
(msg#81723), On hold pending more field use as of Nov 9(81730)

Ray Tant(1) - Esbit Alcohol Stove and Trekking Cookset - Posted Nov 11
(msg#81741), On hold pending use clarification as of Nov 17

Peter Raiff(1) - Black Rock 'Sportsman' Down Beanie – Posted Nov 15 (msg#81744),
On hold pending use clarification as of Nov 17

==============================================================
EDITED OR APPROVED; WAITING FOR WRITER'S ACTION

Black Rock 'Sportsman' Down Beanie
BY PETER RAIFF
OR
November 16, 2012

TESTER INFORMATION

NAME: Peter Raiff
EMAIL: raiffnuke@...
AGE: 35
LOCATION: North Adams, Massachusetts, US
GENDER: M
HEIGHT: 5' 7" (1.70 m)
WEIGHT: 180 lb (81.60 kg)

I consider myself a lightweight backpacker that is tending towards Ultra Light.
I hike with a typical overnight pack weight of 15-20 lbs (6.8-9.1 kg) and a
multi-day weight of 20-25 lbs (9.1-11.3 kg). I am a, experienced and dedicated
hammock camper that enjoys spending time in the outdoors with my family and
dogs.

PRODUCT INFORMATION

Manufacturer: Black Rock Gear
Year of Manufacture: 2011
Manufacturer's Website: <<HYPERLINK GOES HERE - "http://www.blackrockgear.com/"
LINK TEXT = "Black Rock Gear">>
MSRP: US$85
Listed Weight: 1.09 oz (31 g)
Other details: Size Large, head size 21-23.5 in

FIELD USE

I decided that I wanted a down hat for winter camping, and being in the North
East with the unpredictable weather in the mountains, I wanted a waterproof hat.
Then I ran across the Black Rock <<HYPERLINK GOES HERE -
"http://www.blackrockgear.com/sportsman.html" LINK TEXT = "Sportsman">>! This
hat fit all of the requirements that I wanted: lightweight, warm, waterproof,
and blaze orange for safety in hunting season.

I have worn this hat between 30-40 nights on the trail, camping in all types of
New England weather in temperatures ranging from 50°F
(10°C) to -5°F (-20°C).   Most of my trips that I worn the hat has been during
the winter in windy and/or snowy conditions on hikes to places like Stratton
Pond in Vermont. The Sportsman has proven to be an extremely warm and water
resistant beanie.  As I am a hammock camper and use a top quilt instead of a
mummy bag, I even sleep in my Sportsman during the winter weather to keep my
head warm.  The Sportsman works well in cool fall weather as well.  I have worn
it on many cool nights on Mt. Greylock in Massachusetts.  I roll the bottom edge
of the hat up a little bit to regulate how warm the hat is, and that makes a
real difference if I find that my head is getting too hot.   I have also found
that due to its waterproof shell that it does not breath very well (the shell
acts as a vapor barrier), so I cannot wear it while hiking as my head quickly
overheats and gets sweaty.

Available Colors (From <<HYPERLINK GOES HERE - "http://www.blackrockgear.com/"
LINK TEXT = "Black Rock Gear">>)

Hunters Orange - A brilliant Orange fabric that showcases the unique fill
qualities of the down with its semi-translucent sheen.

Expedition Black - A beautiful run of black double sil coated nylon. The deep
sheen gives this Black Rock Hat a stunning and impressive look.



SUMMARY

This is a great hat if you are looking for warmth, lightweight, and packability.

THINGS I LIKE

Lightweight
Extremely warm
Packability
Available in Blaze Orange


THINGS I DON'T LIKE

Not very breathable. (Acts as a vapor barrier)

SIGNATURE

Peter Raiff



This report was created with the BGT Report Generator.
Copyright 2012. All rights reserved.

Hello OR Editors,
 
In answer to the November call, I've posted an OR for a headlamp.
 
Thanks in advance for reviewing it and providing edits.
 
Nancy
 
http://www.backpackgeartest.org/reviews/test/OWNER%20REVIEWS/OR-%20Primus%20Prim\
elite-%20Nancy%20Griffith/
 
http://tinyurl.com/aw38y3k

PRIMUS PRIMELITE CT HEADLAMP
BY NANCY GRIFFITH
OR
November 18, 2012
 
TESTER INFORMATION
 
NAME: Nancy Griffith
EMAIL: bkpkrgirlATyahooDOTcom
AGE: 46
LOCATION: Northern California, USA
GENDER: F
HEIGHT: 5' 6" (1.68 m)
WEIGHT: 130 lb (59.00 kg)
 
My outdoor experience began in high school with involvement in a local
canoeing/camping group called Canoe Trails.  The culmination was a 10-day canoe
voyage through the Quebec wilds.  I've been backpacking since my college days
in Pennsylvania.  I have completed all of the Appalachian Trail in Georgia,
Tennessee and North Carolina.  My typical trip now is in the Sierra Nevada in
California and is from a few days to a week long.  I carry a light to
mid-weight load, use a tent, stove and trekking poles.
 
PRODUCT INFORMATION
 
<<IMAGE GOES HERE. ALT TEXT = "Primelite CT">>Manufacturer: Primus
Year of Manufacture: 2009
Manufacturer's Website: <<HYPERLINK GOES HERE - "http://www.primus.se/" LINK
TEXT = "http://www.primus.se/">>
MSRP: N/A
Listed Weight: 2.4 oz (68 g)
Measured Weight: 2.4 oz (68 g)
Measured Weight (with batteries): 3.6 oz (102 g)
Size: 2 in x 2.6 in x 1.3 in (50 mm x 66 mm x 32 mm)
Waterproof IPX7
The Primus Primelite CT headlamp has one Luxeonâ„¢ diode in the center and three
white light-emitting diodes on either side.  There are two buttons on the top;
one is simply an on/off and the other toggles through the modes.  The lamp
first comes on in the low flood light mode with six diodes.  Then if I toggle
through all of the modes it goes to the high flood light then low spot light
with the center diode then high spot light then finally the flashing mode where
the six diodes flash.  The brightness levels for the six diode flood light are
25% and 100%.  For the center diode spot light the brightness levels are 50%
and 100% brightness. It comes with a storage bag that can also be used as a
light diffuser.
The six white diodes have a rating for 38 yd (35 m) and 80 hours of battery
life.  The Luxeon™ (45 lumens) has a rating of 60 yd (55 m) and 12 hours of
battery life.
The headlamp uses 3 AAA batteries (included) which are housed in a water
resistant compartment behind the light.  The battery door has a positive snap
closure.  The lamp is able to pivot in a bracket to allow for shining the light
in the direction that it is needed.
The switches are on the top on the right and left side with the right hand one
having a ridge around it to prevent turning it on by accident.  The
non-removable wide elastic band strap has reflective striping and is adjustable
to various lengths.
 
FIELD USE
 
<<IMAGE GOES HERE. ALT TEXT = "As purchased">>This headlamp has been used for
the past three years on nearly every backpacking trip.  In total it has
probably seen nearly 100 days of backpacking use from Maine to Washington to
Florida with most use in the Sierra Nevada of California.  It has also been
used for car and boat camping and a lot of home use for car repair and home
repair (under the house, in the attic and in dark areas).  It has always been
used with three AAA alkaline batteries and has gone through multiple sets.
Some examples of backpacking trips:
Wonderland Trail, Mount Rainier National Park, Washington: 11 days; 100 mi (161
km); 2,600 to 7,200 ft (792 to 2,195 m) elevation; 32 to 62 F (0 to 17 C).
Appalachian Trail, White Mountains (New Hampshire): 3 days; 18 mi (30 km); 2,032
to 5,367 ft (619 to 1,636 m); 45 to 70 F (7 to 21 C) with clear to rainy
conditions.
Sequoia National Park, Sierra Nevada, California: 6 days, 60 miles (97 km);
6,700 to 11,600 ft (2,000 to 3,500 m) elevation; 38 to 84 F (3 to 29 C) with
clear conditions.
Yosemite National Park, Sierra Nevada, California: 5 days; 37 mi (60 km); 4,200
to 9,400 ft (1,280 to 2,865 m); 45 to 75 F (7 to 24 C) with clear conditions.
Glacier National Park, Montana: 4 days; 33 mi (53km); 4,010 to 5,000 ft (1,222
to 1,524 m); 38 to 80 F (3 to 27 C) with clear, cloudy and thunderstorm
conditions.
The headlamp setting on low is perfect for reading in the tent.  I also use it
for middle of the night calls of nature and for evening navigation back to the
tent from the campfire.  A few times I used it for hiking short distances at
night.  I use the high setting for outdoor use and usually use the low setting
for reading.
The first time that the batteries failed we were playing cards.  There seemed
to be no warning that it was failing.  However, it probably was getting more
dim over time, just not noticeably so.  After that I became more aware of it
becoming dim and usually just put in a fresh set of batteries before any long
trips.
The headlamp never flickered or had any indication of an intermittent
connection.  It has been completely reliable throughout its life with the only
issue being that it occasionally does not turn on with the first attempt.  It
does seem to turn on with the next try and hasn't caused any problem.  The
durability has been great.  I haven't monitored the battery life closely but it
is consistent with other lamps that I own and hasn't seemed unusually good or
bad.
It has never been exposed to any heavy rain conditions but has been worn in
light rain for short periods.  It has not shown any indication of moisture
getting inside the housing.
There has not been any problem with the lamp turning on inadvertently such as by
bumping the switch in the pack.  This happens so often with other headlamps
that I always have to reverse the batteries before packing it.  But with this
one I don't bother and there was only one time that I think it got turned on by
mistake and drained the batteries.
The storage bag was used at times for longer-term storage in the summer.  But
we usually keep headlamps within easy reach in the winter for various household
uses.  The bag was never used as a lamp shade or diffuser.
 
SUMMARY
 
The Primus Primelite CT headlamp seems to be a good quality light with adequate
output for general use in camp, for reading, walking, etc.  It has been
completely reliable throughout the battery life and has provided great
durability given all of the trips that it has been on.
 
THINGS I LIKE
 
Good light for general camp use
Tilt adjustment is easy to use
Buttons don't turn on while in backpack
Low setting is perfect for reading
 
THINGS I DON'T LIKE
 
ON/OFF switch doesn't always work on first try
 
SIGNATURE
 
Nancy Griffith
 
 
 
This report was created with the BGT Report Generator.
Copyright 2012.  All rights reserved.

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

Sorry but I thought the Nov. call included sleeping items.  Since I use the
tights for sleeping, I thought they would qualify.  It looks like the best
decision is to shelve the review and await a clothing call.  Thanks.




________________________________
From: Jamie D. <jdeben@...>
To: BackpackGearTest@yahoogroups.com
Sent: Sat, November 17, 2012 7:34:21 PM
Subject: [BackpackGearTest] Attn: Frances Penn Re: OR Black Diamond Fleece
Tights

 
Hi Frances,

Thank you for submitting an OR for November's call. It sounds like you found a
really great product, unfortunately tights are a clothing item and therefore
don't exactly fit into any of the three categories we are using for the call
this month.


With the new BP system in place I'd love for you to benefit from you review so
do you want to shelve it for now and use it in the future when clothing items
are part of the call or just proceed with the edits and use it as a regular OR?

Let me know.
Jamie D
Editors Team Director




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

Please accept my application to test the Mountainsmith Trekking Poles.  I have
read the BackpackGearTest.org Bylaws v0609 including Chapter 5 I agree to comply
with all requirements.  My signed tester agreement is on file.

Tester Info:
Name:  Erin Foudy
Age:  32
Gender:  Female
Height:  5'11'' (1.8 m)
Weight:  150 lbs (68 kg)
Email address:  erinfoudyATyahooDOTcom
City, State, Country:  Tucson, Arizona, USA

Backpacking Background:
I started backpacking while working for the National Park service ten years ago.
I have been a backcountry ranger/law enforcement ranger and served on search and
rescue crews.  I typically take two or more camping trips a month, year round. 
I appreciate light weight, but am not obsessed by it.  I often carry a 30 lb (14
kg) pack and stay out from three to nine days at a time.  I also enjoy day trips
with only water on my back.  I take trips to Colorado and Montana in the
summertime and enjoy the outdoors there as well.

Test Plan:
If selected this would be my first time owning or even trying hiking poles.  I
have always been extremely curious about hiking poles, as I have several hiking
buddies who swear by them.  I have been told that poles can aid your stamina
when hiking uphill, allowing the user to comfortably hike longer as well as
farther.  When traveling down hill I am very interested in seeing if hiking
poles will help stabilize me as I have had problems with weak ankles and knees.
I will be taking many trips during this testing period.  I have one to Colorado
planned to do some backpacking and visit family.  I will also be taking many
trips up the local mountain ranges around Tucson, and some trips in the lower
desert areas as well.  There will be lots of rocky terrain and uneven paths.  I
will test the poles for durability and strength as well as weight and ease of
use.


I have 2 current test: Suisse Sport Mckinley Sleeping Bag ( LTR stage), View
Ranger App (2 report test LTR stage), Honey Stingers (awaiting delivery)
My tester status page is at: http://teststatus.backpackgeartest.org/T1900.htm
I have 3 OR's uploaded to the BGT site.
My OR's can be viewed at:
http://www.backpackgeartest.org/tester_reviews/erinfoudy
I have 0 applications pending

I have no additional BGT responsibilities.

Thank you!

Hi Theresa, Thanks for submitting the OR on this book. I have just a few edits
for you. Please feel free to upload to the following folder
http://tinyurl.com/c4j8bnx when you are ready and please remember to delete your
test version.

Your edits are in the following format,
EDIT - must change
edit - my recommended change if you agree
comment - just that

"For example, some of the roads and bridges have since been washed out making
some vehicle access points changed from 2WD to 4WD or not even accessible at
all."
EDIT – This sentence just does not read right. The "tenses" do not match (making
/ changed) either. Might I suggest something like the following… "For example,
since the writing of this book, some of the roads and bridges described have
since been washed out. Some vehicle access points have also changed. Vehicles
might need to be set to 4WD or the routes might not even be accessible at all."

"Especially, since not being in the right place on a scramble has led me to some
dicy situations or just great disappointment."
EDIT – spelling of "dicey"

"I love the quick description of what to expect, including what hazards are
likley and the quality of the scramble."
EDIT – spelling of "likely"

"LIKES
- Great photographs with route superimposed
- Great summary and quick descriptions
- To the point route descriptions"
edit - Would you consider "Point to point route descriptions" instead of "To the
point descriptions"? – Just a thought…

See you again soon!
Mike Mosack


--- In BackpackGearTest@yahoogroups.com, Theresa Lawrence <theresa_newell@...>
wrote:
>
> Hello OR editors ... reading for some reading ...
>
>
HTML: http://www.backpackgeartest.org/reviews/test/OWNER%20REVIEWS/OR%20-%20Scra\
mbles%20Guidebook%20-%20Theresa%20Lawrence/
>
> TEXT: 
>
>
>
> SCRAMBLES IN SOUTHWEST BRITISH COLUMBIA
> By Theresa Lawrence
> OR
> November 16, 2012
>  
> TESTER INFORMATION
>  
> NAME: Theresa Lawrence
> EMAIL: theresa_newell AT yahoo DOT com
> AGE: 35
> LOCATION: Sparwood, British Columbia, Canada
> GENDER: F
> HEIGHT: 5' 8" (1.73 m)
> WEIGHT: 125 lb (56.70 kg)
>  
> I have more than 15 years of backpacking experience. Day hikes and 2-3 day
backpacking trips take place on most weekends throughout the year while longer
trips are only occasional. I backpack predominantly in mountain terrain (Coast
Range, Cascades and Canadian Rockies) with the goal of summiting peaks.
Activities I use my gear with include mountaineering, ski touring, rock
climbing, kayaking, biking, trail running, Search and Rescue and overseas
travel. I like my gear to be reasonably light, convenient and simple to use
though I would not claim to be a lightweight hiker.
>  
> Product Information
>  
> Title: Scrambles in Southwest British Columbia
> Author: Matt Gunn
> Publisher: Cairn Publishing
> Publisher's Website: http://cairnpublishing.com
> Date Published: March 2005
> Edition: 1st
> MSRP: $30 CAD
> ISBN: 0-9735489-0-8
> Measured Size: 7.5 x 5 x 0.75 in (19 x 12.7 x 1.9 cm)
> Measured Weight: 14.6 oz (414 g)
> Pages: 320
>  
> Product Description
>  
> Scrambles in Southwest British Columbia (BC) is a guidebook that details
scrambling routes to various peaks in the region. It is intended for experienced
backpackers and climbers only. I would define scrambling as nontechnical
climbing that gains access to summits, which can often be very exposed and
dangerous. There is a disclaimer at the beginning of the book explaining all the
risks involved and what scrambling is all about. Safety, road access, park fees,
camping/ hut information and a section on how to use the guide is also included
at the beginning of the book.
>
> The rest of the book is divided into thirteen chapters with each chapter
covering an area within the Southwest BC region. There is an area overview map
on the first page showing all the chapters and their corresponding page numbers
for quick reference. At the beginning of each chapter there is a summary of
highlights for the area and information pertaining to access and camping along
with an area map. Each chapter is then broken into scrambles defined by the name
of the summit. There are over 120 routes, which include day trips, weekend trips
and multi-day outings.
>
> Each scramble has a summary box with the following information:
>
> - Star quality rating with the following meanings:
>      *** I loved it and would do it again.
>       ** A pretty good route. Worthwhile and enjoyable.
>        * Not one of my favourite routes, likely included for geographic
representation or significance.
> - Difficulty rating: easy, moderate, difficult, very difficult  (these are
defined in the book)
> - Summit elevation
> - Ascent time
> - Elevation gain
> - Maps: which topographical (1:50000 NTS) map to use
> - Hike description (summary)
> - Vehicle required (4WD, etc.)
> - Driving time from Vancouver, BC
>
> The rest of the section includes details of the route including how to get to
the trail head and then from the trail head all the way to the summit. A
photograph of the mountain with a superimposed line drawn showing the route to
the summit is also provided.
>
> The book concludes with a glossary, index and a little blurb about the author.
>  
> Field Use
>  
> Out of the 120 routes described in this book, I have done over 50 of them.
Suffice to say I have enough experience using this book to make a few comments.
And honestly, I have nothing but raving reviews for this book. It is simply laid
out and gives all the details I'm looking for in the summary of each scramble.
This allows me to quickly decide whether the scramble is for me or will work
with the current weather conditions, etc. The route descriptions are
consistently accurate and give just enough information to help find the route to
the summit. The pictures are real photographs printed in black and white. They
are high quality and represent each mountain clearly. I have never been lost
with this book, nor have I gotten into a scramble beyond my abilities as the
descriptions are very accurate on what to expect and whether the route is
exposed. The access directions to the trail head have also been bang on. What
impresses me even more about the author
>  and publisher's website is that it provides all the new updates for the book.
For example, some of the roads and bridges have since been washed out making
some vehicle access points changed from 2WD to 4WD or not even accessible at
all. This has been exceptionally useful instead of having an outdated copy of a
book. As yet, there is no 2nd edition available. The book is also small and
light enough to not be a burden.
>
> Just a few examples of some achievable peaks through this guidebook ...
>
> Summary
>  
> Scrambles in Southwest British Columbia is a fantastic guidebook for
experienced scramblers. I have successfully climbed many summits with this book
and have never gotten lost. I have been lost with other scramble guidebooks, so
that is saying something. Especially, since not being in the right place on a
scramble has led me to some dicy situations or just great disappointment. The
book is very well laid out for picking a scramble based on the type of vehicle I
have access to, the current weather conditions, the ability of myself and the
people I'm with. I love the quick description of what to expect, including what
hazards are likley and the quality of the scramble. All of these things are
important to me when deciding which scramble to do. Also, I have to commend the
author for the brilliant photographs used showing the overall route. I would
most definately recommend this book for anyone who likes to scramble to the top
of a mountain.
>
> LIKES
> - Great photographs with route superimposed
> - Great summary and quick descriptions
> - To the point route descriptions
> - Useful rating systems
> - Useful information about access and camping/ huts in the area
> - Useful website that provides all new updates for the book
>
> DISLIKES
> - Nothing
>
>  
>  
>  
> This report was created with the BGT Report Generator.
> Copyright 2012.  All rights reserved.
>

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. 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. 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(at)hotmail.com

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.

Once your 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 Jenn K., the mentor coordinator, at mentor (at)
backpackgeartest.org.

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 while it's in the edit
queue, the entire Owner Review Queue is posted to this yahoo group list on
either Thursdays or Fridays.

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

Regards
Jamie DeBenedetto
Editors Team Director

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. 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. 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(at)hotmail.com

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.

Once your 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 Jenn K., the mentor coordinator, at mentor (at)
backpackgeartest.org.

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 while it's in the edit
queue, the entire Owner Review Queue is posted to this yahoo group list on
either Thursdays or Fridays.

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

Regards
Jamie DeBenedetto
Editors Team Director

No worries Frances.  I should have been more clear on the call.  Since I'm the
one who decides what we call for each month, I'll make sure clothing is in there
soon.  :)

Jamie D

--- In BackpackGearTest@yahoogroups.com, Frances Penn <fpenn@...> wrote:
>
> Sorry but I thought the Nov. call included sleeping items.  Since I use the
> tights for sleeping, I thought they would qualify.  It looks like the best
> decision is to shelve the review and await a clothing call.  Thanks.
>
>
>
>
> ________________________________
> From: Jamie D. <jdeben@...>
> To: BackpackGearTest@yahoogroups.com
> Sent: Sat, November 17, 2012 7:34:21 PM
> Subject: [BackpackGearTest] Attn: Frances Penn Re: OR Black Diamond Fleece
> Tights
>
>  
> Hi Frances,
>
> Thank you for submitting an OR for November's call. It sounds like you found a
> really great product, unfortunately tights are a clothing item and therefore
> don't exactly fit into any of the three categories we are using for the call
> this month.
>
>
> With the new BP system in place I'd love for you to benefit from you review so
> do you want to shelve it for now and use it in the future when clothing items
> are part of the call or just proceed with the edits and use it as a regular
OR?
>
> Let me know.
> Jamie D
> Editors Team Director
>
>
>
>
> [Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
>

Wrong list Erin.  They wont see it here.

Jamie D

APPLICATION TO TEST ISIS SLIPSTREAM DOWN JACKET
 
Please accept my application to test the ISIS
Slipstream Down Jacket. I have read Chapter Five of the BackpackGearTest
Survival Guide, version 0609, and I will follow all requirements. My signed BGT
Agreement is on file. I will pay any shipping costs to Canada. I also have
access
to a US shipping address that can be used if needed. I would be able to pick
the item up with little ease just across the border.
 
TESTER BIOGRAPHY
 
Name: Theresa Lawrence
Age: 35
Gender: Female
Height: 5 ft 8 in (173 cm)
Weight: 125 lbs (59 kg)
Email: theresa_newell AT yahoo DOT com
Location: Sparwood, British Columbia, Canada
Date: November 20, 2012
 
I have more than 15 years of backpacking experience.
Day hikes and 2-3 day backpacking trips take place on most weekends throughout
the year while longer trips are only occasional. I backpack predominantly in
mountain terrain (Coast Range, Cascades and Canadian Rockies) with the goal of
summiting peaks. Activities I use my gear with include mountaineering, ski
touring, rock climbing, kayaking, biking, trail running, Search and Rescue and
overseas travel. I like my gear to be reasonably light, convenient and simple
to use though I would not claim to be a lightweight hiker.
 
TEST PLAN
 
This 800-fill down looks like a decent insulative
layer for winter camping. I have plans for some overnight ski-touring excursions
once the snow settles into the South Canadian Rockies. Temperatures will be
well below 0 C overnight in the mountains and I will have no problem meeting
the minimum 5 night requirement. I anticipate lots of outdoor winter activity
where I can put this jacket to the test: snow-shoeing, x-country skiing and
snowmobiling,
but mainly backcountry alpine ski-touring.  I would be testing this jacket for
warmth,
fit, comfort, durability and performance as a mid-layer under a shell and as an
outer-layer. I can see it has a few comfort design features with the zippers
and collar, which I’d like to experience, same with the DWR finished fabric
for
drizzle and I wonder how lightweight and condensed it will be for packing
around.
 
PREVIOUSLY WRITTEN REPORTS
 
Owner Reviews: 4 - they can be viewed on my tester
Page: http://www.backpackgeartest.org/tester_reviews/theresa_lawrence
 
Current Tests: High Sierra Titan 65L Pack – FR just
completed Nov 13/12
Completed Tests can be viewed on my tester page with
the link above and my Tester Status Page is here:
http://teststatus.backpackgeartest.org/T1909.htm
 
Outstanding Applications: Montbell Highlander Down
Jacket
 
I have no other BGT roles. Thank you for considering
my application,
 
Theresa Lawrence

psst...wrong list.  :)
Andrea

--- In BackpackGearTest@yahoogroups.com, Theresa Lawrence <theresa_newell@...>
wrote:
>
> APPLICATION TO TEST ISIS SLIPSTREAM DOWN JACKET
>  
> Please accept my application to test the ISIS
> Slipstream Down Jacket. I have read Chapter Five of the BackpackGearTest
> Survival Guide, version 0609, and I will follow all requirements. My signed
BGT
> Agreement is on file. I will pay any shipping costs to Canada. I also have
access
> to a US shipping address that can be used if needed. I would be able to pick
> the item up with little ease just across the border.
>  
> TESTER BIOGRAPHY
>  
> Name: Theresa Lawrence
> Age: 35
> Gender: Female
> Height: 5 ft 8 in (173 cm)
> Weight: 125 lbs (59 kg)
> Email: theresa_newell AT yahoo DOT com
> Location: Sparwood, British Columbia, Canada
> Date: November 20, 2012
>  
> I have more than 15 years of backpacking experience.
> Day hikes and 2-3 day backpacking trips take place on most weekends throughout
> the year while longer trips are only occasional. I backpack predominantly in
> mountain terrain (Coast Range, Cascades and Canadian Rockies) with the goal of
> summiting peaks. Activities I use my gear with include mountaineering, ski
> touring, rock climbing, kayaking, biking, trail running, Search and Rescue and
> overseas travel. I like my gear to be reasonably light, convenient and simple
> to use though I would not claim to be a lightweight hiker.
>  
> TEST PLAN
>  
> This 800-fill down looks like a decent insulative
> layer for winter camping. I have plans for some overnight ski-touring
excursions
> once the snow settles into the South Canadian Rockies. Temperatures will be
> well below 0 C overnight in the mountains and I will have no problem meeting
> the minimum 5 night requirement. I anticipate lots of outdoor winter activity
> where I can put this jacket to the test: snow-shoeing, x-country skiing and
snowmobiling,
> but mainly backcountry alpine ski-touring.  I would be testing this jacket
for warmth,
> fit, comfort, durability and performance as a mid-layer under a shell and as
an
> outer-layer. I can see it has a few comfort design features with the zippers
> and collar, which I’d like to experience, same with the DWR finished fabric
for
> drizzle and I wonder how lightweight and condensed it will be for packing
> around.
>  
> PREVIOUSLY WRITTEN REPORTS
>  
> Owner Reviews: 4 - they can be viewed on my tester
> Page: http://www.backpackgeartest.org/tester_reviews/theresa_lawrence
>  
> Current Tests: High Sierra Titan 65L Pack â€" FR just
> completed Nov 13/12
> Completed Tests can be viewed on my tester page with
> the link above and my Tester Status Page is here:
http://teststatus.backpackgeartest.org/T1909.htm
>  
> Outstanding Applications: Montbell Highlander Down
> Jacket
>  
> I have no other BGT roles. Thank you for considering
> my application,
>  
> Theresa Lawrence
>

thanks


________________________________
  From: ringrat55 <amurland@...>
To: BackpackGearTest@yahoogroups.com
Sent: Tuesday, November 20, 2012 4:37:47 PM
Subject: [BackpackGearTest] Re: APPLICATION - Slipstream Jacket - Theresa
Lawrence


 
psst...wrong list.  :)
Andrea

--- In BackpackGearTest@yahoogroups.com, Theresa Lawrence <theresa_newell@...>
wrote:
>
> APPLICATION TO TEST ISIS SLIPSTREAM DOWN JACKET
>  
> Please accept my application to test the ISIS
> Slipstream Down Jacket. I have read Chapter Five of the BackpackGearTest
> Survival Guide, version 0609, and I will follow all requirements. My signed
BGT
> Agreement is on file. I will pay any shipping costs to Canada. I also have
access
> to a US shipping address that can be used if needed. I would be able to pick
> the item up with little ease just across the border.
>  
> TESTER BIOGRAPHY
>  
> Name: Theresa Lawrence
> Age: 35
> Gender: Female
> Height: 5 ft 8 in (173 cm)
> Weight: 125 lbs (59 kg)
> Email: theresa_newell AT yahoo DOT com
> Location: Sparwood, British Columbia, Canada
> Date: November 20, 2012
>  
> I have more than 15 years of backpacking experience.
> Day hikes and 2-3 day backpacking trips take place on most weekends throughout
> the year while longer trips are only occasional. I backpack predominantly in
> mountain terrain (Coast Range, Cascades and Canadian Rockies) with the goal of
> summiting peaks. Activities I use my gear with include mountaineering, ski
> touring, rock climbing, kayaking, biking, trail running, Search and Rescue and
> overseas travel. I like my gear to be reasonably light, convenient and simple
> to use though I would not claim to be a lightweight hiker.
>  
> TEST PLAN
>  
> This 800-fill down looks like a decent insulative
> layer for winter camping. I have plans for some overnight ski-touring
excursions
> once the snow settles into the South Canadian Rockies. Temperatures will be
> well below 0 C overnight in the mountains and I will have no problem meeting
> the minimum 5 night requirement. I anticipate lots of outdoor winter activity
> where I can put this jacket to the test: snow-shoeing, x-country skiing and
snowmobiling,
> but mainly backcountry alpine ski-touring.  I would be testing this jacket
for warmth,
> fit, comfort, durability and performance as a mid-layer under a shell and as
an
> outer-layer. I can see it has a few comfort design features with the zippers
> and collar, which I’d like to experience, same with the DWR finished
fabric for
> drizzle and I wonder how lightweight and condensed it will be for packing
> around.
>  
> PREVIOUSLY WRITTEN REPORTS
>  
> Owner Reviews: 4 - they can be viewed on my tester
> Page: http://www.backpackgeartest.org/tester_reviews/theresa_lawrence
>  
> Current Tests: High Sierra Titan 65L Pack â€" FR just
> completed Nov 13/12
> Completed Tests can be viewed on my tester page with
> the link above and my Tester Status Page is here:
http://teststatus.backpackgeartest.org/T1909.htm
>  
> Outstanding Applications: Montbell Highlander Down
> Jacket
>  
> I have no other BGT roles. Thank you for considering
> my application,
>  
> Theresa Lawrence
>




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

Esbit Alcohol Stove and Trekking Cookset
Name: Ray Tant
Age: 43
Gender: Male
Height: 5 ‘ 9�
Weight: 185 lbs
Email address: crtant3@...
City, State, Country: Knoxville, TN USA
Date: 11/11/2012
Backpacking Background: I always had an interest in the outdoors and I began
backpacking when I was in college. Having the Great Smoky Mountain National Park
at my disposal made it very easy to fall in love with the trail. After several
years of backpacking my focus shifted to caving, marriage and then kids. I
recently rediscovered my love for backpacking and camping. Since most of my gear
was purchased in the early 90’s I have had to do a lot of updating. I
currently spilt time backpacking with friends, car camping with my family and my
son’s scout den. I try to do some kind of trip each month. I primarily stay
within a 4 hour radius of Knoxville, TN but have limited experience in Utah,
Arizona, California and Oregon.
Product Information

Manufacturer:  Esbit  
Year of Manufacture: 2012   
URL: http://www.esbit.net/
Listed weight: 14.71 Ounces (417 Grams)    
Weight as delivered:  15.10 Ounces  (428 Grams)
Total Pack size: height 147 mm / 5.5'',
Diameter 128 mm / 5''
Volume of the pots: 985 ml (33 oz)and
470 ml (15 oz)
Burning period of the spirit-burner:
Maximum of 30 minutes
Burning period of a 14 g (0.5 oz) solid-fuel
tablet approx. 10-15 minutes 
MSRP: $49.99
Fuel Type: Alcohol (various) and Solid Fuel (various)
 The Esbit alcohol stove arrived in a cardboard box bearing the images and
technical data for the new stove. Out of the box the stove is contained in a
black mesh bag. The cooking kit breaks down into a small (470 ml) Frying
pan/drinking cup, a 985 ml cooking pot, a cooking stand, a solid fuel stand, and
alcohol stove. The alcohol stove breaks down further into a stove, sealed screw
on lid and put out lid. The sealed lid has a rubber gasket that makes the stove
leak proof and eliminates the need to empty the fuel between usage and
transport.
The system can use either the alcohol stove or Esbit solid fuels using the
adapter.
The two pots conform to one another allowing the smaller pot to be used as a lid
to help water boil faster or its own cooking pan as a miniature skillet.
Although the small skillet is a nice notion, it seems to add bulk when a good
lid would do. Every time I repack the kit I always find myself looking into the
pots and all the empty space wishing I had a flat lid. Both pots have handles.
 
 The alcohol stove is very similar to a Trangia style of cooking stove and
utilizes approximately 2-3 ounces of alcohol fuel. I usually can boil 4 to 6 –
two cup rounds of water. There are many types of alcohol to use, but I have
found denatured alcohol to burn the cleanest.
After placing the stove in the cooking frame and lighting, the stove takes less
than a minute to warm up and begin to push vaporized fuel through the jets
located along the outer rim. I have always used the larger pan to cook with. To
date I have used the stove on several occasions and the average boil time is
approximately 6 to 8 minutes. The time to boil is very contingent on the ambient
temperature as well as wind conditions. Although not included I did purchase a
small lightweight aluminum windscreen to increase cook times. I have not
experienced it, but there are cold temperature limitations on alcohol stoves.
Most people recommend to only use alcohol stoves above 20 degrees Fahrenheit.
The esbit solid fuel attachment can be used in replacement of the alcohol stove
and inserted in the same position. A single solid fuel tablet takes
approximately 10 minutes to achieve the boil for 2 cups of water versus the 6 to
8 minutes of the alcohol fuel.
The construction of the pans and stove are impressive and appear to be the high
quality. The pots are made of lightweight anodized aluminum. The alcohol stove
is made of what appears to be a brass material. As with most alcohol stoves, the
base of the system is narrow and could be unstable, I have yet to experience
this. Additionally, you are using a liquid fuel that after lit when spilled can
be a very dangerous situation.
Field information
The unit has been tested both in ideal conditions in my kitchen, my back porch
as well as on the trail. I have conducted three tests in my kitchen to test the
boil time of 2 cups of water. I tested it on the back porch once to show my son.
The first use in the field was in the great Smoky Mountain National Park
backcountry campsites 21 and 24 off the Little River Trail. I used the stove to
boil water while preparing meals (dinner and breakfast) and tea for myself, son
and nephew over a 2 night, 3 day trip. I typically boiled 3 – two cup rounds
of water for each of our meals, 3 – one cup rounds for tea and one 2 cup round
for a dessert. I would guess I used the stove between 18 – 20 times that
weekend. Campsite 21 is a sloping backcountry site that is heavily wooded.
Campsite 24 is a relatively flat, heavily wooded back country campsite set
between a large stream, and as many as two small creeks at an approximate
elevation of 2640' feet of elevation. The weather setting was a temperature of
approximately 65 degrees and raining both nights.
The second time the unit was tested was at Naked Ground campsite at the Joyce
Kilmer Memorial Forest at an elevation of approximately 5200 feet. I used the
stove to boil water while preparing meals (dinner and breakfast) and tea for
myself, on a 1 night, 2 day trip. I typically boiled 1 – two cup round of
water for each meals, a one cup round for tea and one 2 cup round for a dessert.
I would guess I used the stove between 5 to 6 times that weekend. The
temperature was about 80 agrees and windy. Dry.
I typically use this stove for boiling water for freeze dried meals and making
hot drinks. I also like the quiet nature of the stove. In addition, the fuel was
relatively lightweight and compared to other cooking systems such as a jet boil,
primus or whisper light it is total serenity. Although slower to boil, the fuel
efficiency and time is excellent.
I have only used the solid fuel in controlled conditions and carry it for
emergencies. I did not buy the system for this purpose.
Summary
Overall the Esbit Trekking Cook Set is a great compact and lightweight alcohol
stove system. Although the top lid/ fry pan is somewhat redundant and seems to
make it bulkier than necessary, the extra space is very good for storing a
second stove system such as a Brunton Optimus Crux and fuel canister.
Things I like
1)      Lightweight
2)      Efficient (cooking to fuel use)
3)      Quiet
4)      Alternative fuel sources (both alcohol and solid fuel)
5)      Extra space in container allows storage of additional backup stove
systems
Things I don't like
1)      Bulkier than needs to be
2)      Doesn't cook as fast as other systems
3)      Noisy in backpack clanking around
4)      No auto light, need matches or lighter

Hmm,

(Ray starts digging through the Future OR folder...)


--- In BackpackGearTest@yahoogroups.com, "Jamie D." <jdeben@...> wrote:
>
> Since I'm the one who decides what we call for each month, I'll make
> sure clothing is in there soon.  :)

Hello Peter,

Welcome to BackpackGearTest (BGT). Thank you for your Owner Review, your initial
edits will follow. They will take the following format;

EDIT: must be changed
Edit: should be changed but will be left to your discretion
Comment: just that or something to think about

When you have made the changes please repost here with REPOST added to the
subject line. Include your name also please. You can also put a copy of the
review, in HTML form, in the Owner Review Test Folder. It is found at the end of
the list of reviews on the main page or here;
http://tinyurl.com/4mfwa


A helpful tool is the Mentoring Program that teams new reviewers with
experienced veterans to help get them through their first review(s). If you'd
like more assistance or guidance with the process you can request a mentor by
sending an email to the mentor coordinator, Jenn, at mentor@...

Ray

*** I am a, experienced and dedicated hammock camper that enjoys spending time
in the outdoors with my family and dogs.

EDIT: I am "an" experienced and dedicated hammock camper




***Listed Weight: 1.09 oz (31 g)

EDIT: I see it listed in Large as 30 g. Was yours different?

EDIT: you also need to list the actual weight, taken by you. If you don't have a
scale (yet) you can take it to the post office and use the one at the self-serve
packing center.




***Other details: Size Large, head size 21-23.5 in

EDIT: you need Metric (or Imperial) conversions for all measurements, weights,
distances, etc.



***Then I ran across the Black Rock <<HYPERLINK GOES HERE -
"http://www.blackrockgear.com/sportsman.html" LINK TEXT = "Sportsman">>!

EDIT: you don't need the link again, just up in the product info.



This hat fit all of the requirements that I wanted: lightweight, warm,
waterproof,
and blaze orange for safety in hunting season.

EDIT: OK, that is a good start. Now you need to write a description of the hat
in your own words. (Not pasted from the company website.) If you want to shoot
me an email (rayestrella AT hotmail DOT com) I will send you the new lessons
that explain it much better than the current ones do. Or take a look at some
existing reviews from veteran writers and look at how they handled it.



***Most of my trips that I worn the hat has been during the winter

EDIT: Most of "the" trips that I "have" worn the hat "have" been during the
winter




*** I even sleep in my Sportsman during the winter weather to keep my
head warm.

EDIT: delete "weather"




***Available Colors (From <<HYPERLINK GOES HERE -
"http://www.blackrockgear.com/"
LINK TEXT = "Black Rock Gear">>)

Please delete the link. We only allow the top level URL as product links change
too often. In fact your color is not even available as I edit this, so just
remove all the color info and let the reader see what is available themselves.


***This is a great hat if you are looking for warmth, lightweight, and
packability.

Comment: you like its packability yet there is no mention of it in the review.
How do you stuff it? Into a pocket or just shoved in the pack? How small does it
get to? That would be good info to include.


***Available in Blaze Orange

EDIT: since it is not available this needs to be removed. Or changed to: Was
able to get it in Blaze Orange

Hi Nancy,

Hope you had a pleasant Thanksgiving.  Your edits follow, in the usual format.
After revising you may upload to the existing folder, but bee sure you indicate
"Owner Review" when you upload. Also remember to delete your Tests/OR folder
copy.

Cheers, Richard

<<PRIMUS PRIMELITE CT HEADLAMP [title]>>
EDIT: On Primus's website it's the PrimeLite (not upper case L) Compact Trekk
(note the double k). Though it's abbreviated on the product itself, please
revise here. OK to abbreviate in the Review if you define it the first time you
use it.

<<Manufacturer: Primus>>
EDIT: Here it should be the manufacturer's full legal name, Primus AB. ["AB" is
the Swedish equivalent of "Inc."]

FIRST PHOTO
EDIT: This looks to me like it was taken from Primus's website. If so you need
to attribute it somewhere in your review.

  <<Size: 2 in x 2.6 in x 1.3 in (50 mm x 66 mm x 32 mm)>>
EDIT: This is the listed size. Either add "Verified accurate" or add your own
measurements.

<<The Primus PrimeLite CT headlamp has one Luxeon™ diode in the center and three
white light-emitting diodes on either side. >>
EDIT: See EDIT above regarding name.
Edit: You might add "(LED)" after "diodes" for clarification.

<<There are two buttons on the top; one is simply and on/off and the the other
toggles through the modes. >>
EDIT: Delete the extra "the" after "on/off and."

<<The brightness levels for the six diode flood light are 25% and 100%. For the
center diode spot light the brightness levels are 50% and 100% brightness.>>
Edit: I'm confused. What are the percentages of? Maximum brightness?

<<The Primus Primelite CT headlamp seems to be a good quality light with
adequate output for general use in camp, for reading, walking, etc.>>
Edit: This is a bit of style commentary, but bears on BGT's prohibition of
projection. After three years' heavy use you ought to be able to say what it is,
or has been for you, not merely what it "seems to be."

<< It has been completely reliable throughout the battery life and has provided
great durability given all of the trips that it has been on.>>
Edit: "stated battery life" would add clarity

Hi Ray,

Thank you for providing more details about your field use with this stove,
unfortunately 3 nights/5 days isn't quite enough field use to meet our standards
for Owner Reviews.  I know writing an OR takes time and thought and I don't want
you to be discouraged.  Please shelve this review, give yourself at least
another seasons use with it and then revise the report and repost it.  By that
time you will hopefully have enough use.

For first reviews we suggest writing about simple gear with which you've had
lots of use.  This helps you as the writer and helps your editor get you through
the OR process more easily.

It is not uncommon for new writers to need a bit more help before their first OR
is ready for the editing process. If you'd like more help we have a Mentoring
Program – This program teams new reviewers with experienced veterans to help get
them through their first two reviews. If you'd like more assistance or guidance
with the process you can request a mentor by sending an email to
Mentor(at)backpackgeartest.org - Please use MENTOR REQUEST in the subject line.

I would also suggest taking a second look at our Owner Review requirements
spelled out in the How to Become a Tester section of our webpage (link below).
In addition to this material we suggest reading some recently approved owner
reviews to get a feel for what the BGT standards are.
http://www.backpackgeartest.org/lesson.php?lesson=BecomeTester&page=1

Regardless of which option you take, we certainly hope you will give it another
go. Our standards are high but that benefits us all. We look forward to seeing
your review again in the near future.

Regards
Jamie DeBenedetto
Editors Team Director

Let's re-start the queue. One of my favorite pieces of clothing. HTML version in
the Tests/OR folder at http://tinyurl.com/bt97h4g

Richard

IBEX ARLBERG VEST
Owner Review by Richard Lyon
November 25, 2012


Personal Details and Backpacking Background

Male, 66 years old
Height: 6' 4" (1.91 m)
Weight: 200 lb (91 kg)
Chest: 46 in (117 cm), waist 37 in (94 cm), torso 22.5 in (57 cm)
Email address: montana DOT angler AT gmail DOT com
Home: Bozeman, Montana USA

I've been backpacking for almost half a century, and regularly in the Rockies
since 1986.  I do a weeklong trip every summer, and often take three-day trips. 
I'm usually camping in alpine terrain, at altitudes 5000 to 13000 ft (1500 -
4000 m).  I prefer base camp backpacking, a long hike in with day trips from
camp.  Though always looking for ways to reduce weight, I'm not yet a
lightweight hiker and I usually choose a bit of extra weight over foregoing camp
conveniences I've come to expect.  Winter adventures are often on touring or
telemark skis.

THE PRODUCT

The Ibex Arlberg is a heavyweight vest made of loden, an old-fashioned felted
wool.  Loden takes its name from the village of Loderers in the Austrian Tyrol,
where, legend has it, its manufacture began centuries ago.  Whatever the real
story, loden jackets have a long history in Austria and are ranked with
lederhosen, yodeling, and The Sound of Music among traditions emblematic of that
country and its mountains. Ibex doubtless named this vest after a mountain
massif in the Austrian Tyrolian Alps with this background in mind.  Loden once
was made with boiled wool, but not for Ibex, which uses a "modernized . . .
exclusive cold water process."  The Arlberg loden fabric is listed at 475 g/m² –
a very dense wool and Ibex's "heaviest and warmest outdoor weight."

The yoke on the Arlberg has a raglan-style cut, with a separate piece of fabric
on each side of the collar, each of which in turn is sewn to crescent-shaped
piece that crosses my upper back.  A small Ibex logo, discreetly embroidered in
red thread, sits in the center at the top of this back piece.

The vest opens and closes by means of a heavy center zipper that's protected by
a storm flap.  There are two zippered handwarmer pockets on the outside, two
large stash pockets, open at the top, on the inside, and a stand-up cadet-style
collar with a soft liner, in a contrasting color (mine is black).  That's it for
features – this is a no-nonsense performance piece.

Details

Manufacturer: Ibex Outdoor Clothing, LLC
Website: http://www.ibex.com
Listed weight (size Medium): 20.8 oz (590 g)
Measured weight (size XL): 22.0 oz (624 g)
Torso, measured: 27.5 in (70 cm) from collar to hem
Size: XL; also available in Small, Medium, Large
Color: Red Heather; when I bought it in 2010 the vest was also available in
Black and Green Loden Heather.  (Green is the color of traditional Austrian
loden coats.) Now available in Red Rocks Heather (looks like orange), Blue
Yonder Heather, Field Heather (loden green), and Black. Ibex frequently changes
its color selections for current products when introducing a new season's line.
MSRP: $170 US now; it was somewhat less when I purchased mine.
Year purchased: 2010
Countries of origin: Made in the USA; fabric source: Australia; fiber source:
Austria.
Warranty: Ibex provides a lifetime warranty against defects in workmanship or
material on all its products.

FIELD USE

I bought the Arlberg principally for casual front country use. It's seen plenty
of that, but I've also found it to be quite useful for winter outings in the
Rockies.  On day hikes, especially day jaunts on skis or snowshoes, the vest has
been a terrific midlayer on really cold days and an even better outer layer wind
block when I don't need a shell.  Twice last fall I wore it on overnight
backpacks.  I estimate about forty outdoor activity days and at least twice as
many more days of casual use in the two years since I purchased the vest.

Backcountry use has seen temperatures as low as -20 F (-29 C), although when the
forecasted temperature is below +20 F (-7 C) I always pack an insulated jacket
too.  As described further below, backcountry conditions have included high
wind, rain, sleet, snow, and various combinations of all of the above, sometimes
all on the same day.

PERFORMANCE

Warmth.  Two characteristics of the Arlberg keep me very warm indeed.  The heavy
fabric makes a great insulating layer, and the loden's dense knit is
extraordinarily effective at blocking the wind. It's as good for this latter
purpose as any wind-blocking fabric I've ever tried, and that includes
synthetics such as EPIC by Nextec expressly intended for wind rather than water
protection. (Hooray for natural fibers!) Over a couple of wool layers (merino
base layer, heavier button-front shirt) I've been plenty warm down to 20 F (-7
C), even with the wind howling along a ridgeline, without an additional outer
layer.

Breathability.  Loden, at least Ibex's version, doesn't breathe; its dense weave
prevents any air permeability.  I don't wear the Arlberg (or a full
cardigan-style sweater in a similar fabric) for wicking.  This means that the
vest goes into my pack during heavy exercise, including skinning or boot-packing
on skis.  With its exceptional water-resisting capabilities, discussed in the
next paragraph, the vest traps heat and sweat, impeding the wicking begun with
my inner layers.  That's one reason I use it for athletic activity much more
often than my loden sweater, because I can get a bit of ventilation at the
vest's armholes.  Also the vest takes up much less pack space than its sweater
cousin, and my torso is just as well (OK, almost as well) protected. Lack of
breathability prevents my wearing it in warmer temperatures, a limitation I can
live with.

Water Resistance.  My Ibex loden garments, definitely including the Arlberg, are
as close to waterproof as any wool I've ever worn.  Light snow, even heavy snow,
can't dent the heavy, densely knit fabric.  It's to the point where I don't
worry about the fabric wetting out in any winter weather.  Only once has my
Arlberg become soggy – after one hour of above-timberline exposure in an
unexpected thunderstorm on a day hike on the Table Mountain trail near Alta,
Wyoming, in late October.  I lent my rain shell to a companion who hadn't packed
her own, and so during our scamper down the mountain (this ridgeline is the
highest around and completely exposed – prime lightning country) I got to learn
on the job that soaking wet wool really does continue to insulate to some
degree, as many manufacturers claim.  Once back at the trailhead the Arlberg was
downright soggy. Even after hand-wringing out as much water as I could and a
night on a hanger in a warm dry cabin the vest wasn't completely dry the next
morning.  But that was the exception – my Arlberg has repelled fog, dew, light
rain, and even brief heavy rain quite well on all other occasions.  The one
drenching did not harm the vest's insulating abilities after it finally dried
out.

Features.  One reason I like the Arlberg for ski touring is the inside pockets. 
These are large and wide and thus perfect storage for climbing skins, relatively
bulky pieces that need to be stored where body heat will keep them from
freezing.  Not a problem when I'm wearing the Arlberg; in fact I have used one
pocket for both skins and the other for mittens when kicking and gliding in
bright sunlight, though it is a tight fit if I want to keep the vest partly
zipped to avoid flapping.  The burly zipper has worked without fail, and thanks
to its zipper pull can be operated easily with one mittened hand.  The heavy
loden fabric keeps the collar in stand-up mode at all times, giving some wind
protection to the back of my neck.

Fit and Comfort.  Ibex garments tend to run true to size and to be cut a bit
longer than many other manufacturers'. Both these attributes apply to the
Arlberg, whose hem sits two or three inches (5-8 cm) below my waist, even over a
heavy sweater – much appreciated on a windy day.  The vest fits nicely with a
bit of room left over, enough (as noted) that I can pack my skins and still zip
the vest to the top without feeling constrained.

Comfort comes from the warmth and dryness the Arlberg gives.  Loden is not a
fabric I have worn, or ever care to wear, next to my skin.  Its dense weave
yields a slightly rough hand, not unlike heavy canvas, but in no way abrasive or
otherwise discomforting.

Durability and Care. This vest looks as good as new, thanks to the burly fabric
and impeccable workmanship. Hardly any care is needed, as the heavy wool repels
most things (I can attest to tea, cocoa, and pine pitch) as well as it does
water.  A tag inside my Arlberg states that the vest may be dry-cleaned or hand
washed "gentle." For me it's hand washing; I never dry-clean wool sweaters. I
have hand-washed the Arlberg once, in cold water using wool-specific soap, then
allowed it to air dry on a hanger.  I detected no loss of water resistance after
this gentle bath.  Mostly maintenance has been brushing off hair accumulated
from contact with my pal in the picture.

When I purchased my Arlberg Ibex claimed the fabric was tough enough to allow
garments made from it to outlive their owners.  I believe that – my Arlberg
looks like new. I look forward to many more years of frequent use. While I
haven't seen any jealous glances, perhaps my heirs presumptive are as well.

Appearance.  I could live in Ibex clothing anywhere.  All of its outerwear looks
smart on the street, and that's surely true of my Arlberg vest. The discontinued
red heather is particularly festive during the Christmas season.

WHAT I LIKE

Very nearly perfect fit for me, with or without an insulating layer underneath
Spectacular wind and water resistance
Warm and comfortable

WHAT I DON'T

It's bulky and takes up considerably more pack room than a down vest. (But
thanks to its almost waterproof fabric I can stash it on the front of my pack in
the winter, even in the snow.)

I'd like a small zippered pocket on the chest or inside, for car keys or a
mobile phone.

Thank you for your response. I am disappointed to hear my length of use was too
short. I had actually used it again this weekend instead of one of 6 stoves i
own to give it more use. However, you failed to mention the quality of the
review and its technical content. This would have been very enlightening.
Furthermore, considering almost all manufacturers replace or modify their gear
on annual basis, how many seasons would you suggest? I would think reviewing
gear still on the shelf would be very important.

In addition, what would be a simple review that you can suggest? I have a Velcro
strap that has been in service for several years, some aluminum tent stakes, 3
twenty year old thermarest sleeping pads, a metal cup, set of 20 year old metal
cutlery, 15 year old rei plastic fork, 20 year old mesh bag, 27 year old
Patagonia snap t synchylla, 20 year old msr whisperlite stove (although that one
has been beaten to death) and many more seasoned pieces of gear. Thank you again
for your input, I look forward to your response.:)

Ray Tant
865-271-7152

On Nov 23, 2012, at 5:17 PM, "Jamie D." <jdeben@...> wrote:

> Hi Ray,
>
> Thank you for providing more details about your field use with this stove,
unfortunately 3 nights/5 days isn't quite enough field use to meet our standards
for Owner Reviews.  I know writing an OR takes time and thought and I don't want
you to be discouraged. Please shelve this review, give yourself at least another
seasons use with it and then revise the report and repost it. By that time you
will hopefully have enough use.
>
> For first reviews we suggest writing about simple gear with which you've had
lots of use. This helps you as the writer and helps your editor get you through
the OR process more easily.
>
> It is not uncommon for new writers to need a bit more help before their first
OR is ready for the editing process. If you'd like more help we have a Mentoring
Program – This program teams new reviewers with experienced veterans to help
get them through their first two reviews. If you'd like more assistance or
guidance with the process you can request a mentor by sending an email to
Mentor(at)backpackgeartest.org - Please use MENTOR REQUEST in the subject line.
>
> I would also suggest taking a second look at our Owner Review requirements
spelled out in the How to Become a Tester section of our webpage (link below).
In addition to this material we suggest reading some recently approved owner
reviews to get a feel for what the BGT standards are.
> http://www.backpackgeartest.org/lesson.php?lesson=BecomeTester&page=1
>
> Regardless of which option you take, we certainly hope you will give it
another go. Our standards are high but that benefits us all. We look forward to
seeing your review again in the near future.
>
> Regards
> Jamie DeBenedetto
> Editors Team Director
>
>
>


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

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. 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. 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(at)hotmail.com

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.

Once your 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 Jenn K., the mentor coordinator, at mentor (at)
backpackgeartest.org.

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 while it's in the edit
queue, the entire Owner Review Queue is posted to this yahoo group list on
either Thursdays or Fridays.

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

Regards
Jamie DeBenedetto
Editors Team Director

Hello new folks,

We are super glad you are here and hope you will be joining the ranks of our
established gear testers very soon. Below you will find some must do's if you
want your Owner Review (OR) added to our Edit Queue.  These points will make
your life and the lives of those involved with the OR process much easier. We
all appreciate you taking time to review and apply this info. BEFORE submitting
your first OR.

1. READ the "How to Become a Tester" information on the
www.backpackgeartest.org website carefully. I know at first glance the
documentation seems like a major uphill climb but as with all summits, the work
you put in ahead of time will definitely pay off as you work your way through
our process.

2. We strongly encourage new writers to write about, A. a simple piece of gear
and B. and item with which you have lots of trail time. By lots we mean a season
or more involving several days/nights in the field.  Use around town, in your
backyard, etc. does not count as field time.

3. ORs will NOT be accepted into the Owner Review Edit Queue if they do not
clearly state the number of days/nights you have used the item. Given the nature
of an Owner Review and the possible amount of years you could have owned the
item we understand it may not be possible for you to recall the exact number of
uses so an estimate is fine.

4. ORs will also not be accepted if you do not include your real full name and
email address in the Tester Bio Section.

5. We highly recommend including at least one picture in your Owner Review as
well.  Although not mandatory in the first OR, pictures are required for the 2nd
OR and all reviews of test gear so adding one or more to OR #1 is good practice.

6. Please make sure you spell check and proofread your work before posting and
reposting to the Yahoo group. You will avoid a ton of silly errors and time if
this is diligently done.

7. When you are ready to post your OR to the Yahoo group for editing please also
create an HTML version.  This version should be posted in the TEST Folder on the
www.backpackgeartest.org website. Include a link to the HTML version at the top
of the OR you submit to the Yahoo group so your editor knows where to look for
it.  You will not be able to proceed through the edit process until the HTML
version has been uploaded to the Test Folder.  If you need assistance with
converting your report to HTML please see our Report Writer on the main BGT
website.

8. When posting an OR for the first time please use this format in the subject
line…
Owner Review: Company & Product – Your Name
Here's a current example from one of our veteran testers …
OR - Injinji Tetratsok Liner - Kathy Waters

9.  When REPOSTING, meaning after your OR has been taken and edited by an editor
AND you have made all the requested corrections, please use this format in the
subject line…
REPOST: OR - Company & Product – Your Name
Ex: REPOST: OR - Sea to Summit Silk Liner - Shawn Wakefield

10. If you will be off hiking, visiting your grandchildren, having a baby,
heading an expedition to each of the 7 summits or otherwise away from email
access for more than  two or three days it is very much appreciated if you post
a note to the Yahoo group to let us know what is going on. At BGT we call this
an Out of Pocket notice or OOP. This quick note lets us know you are still
around and interested in BGT but you are away from email contact for a
predetermined length of time. Please include your name, the date you are leaving
and returning, and what ORs are affected by your absence.

Again, welcome to BGT and I hope you find this message informative. Please
direct any questions to the BackpackGearTest Yahoo group.

Cordially,
Mrs. Jamie DeBenedetto
Editors Team Director

Hi Ray T,

With your additional recent use you are getting very close to having enough use.
We generally suggest at least 1 or 2 seasons use so you have a variety of
weather conditions included in your field use section.  We expect a minimum of 5
nights/10 days use for all items. Although, for ORs more is quite common because
it's a piece of gear you've likely owned for a while.

You are 100% correct, it is most important for BGT to have relevant reviews so
items no longer sold, or as you put it, "still on the shelf" aren't eligible for
ORs. That is definitely something to consider when choosing the gear you will
write about.

As for failing to comment on the quality and content of your review, that is not
my function in the Edit Team.  That more intensive job falls to the folks who
have volunteered to be OR Editors.  I'm simply the first set of eyes to scan the
newly posted ORs.  My job is to encourage new writers who have fallen a bit
short of our requirements to get things shored up and repost or ask for a
mentor.  Furthermore, I save the editors from spending unnecessary time on an
Owner Review that, even if well written, couldn't be accepted because of other
misgivings.

We all started out having to go thru the first 2 OR process, like you, so we all
know it can be a little daunting at first.  I truly hope you stick with it until
you reach the goal of becoming a tester.  The process is not meant to be a pain
in the rump but it is meant to force some level of commitment and weed out those
not willing to follow through.

I look forward to seeing you succeed.
Regards,
Jamie DeBenedetto
Editors Team Director


--- In BackpackGearTest@yahoogroups.com, Ray Tant <crtant3@...> wrote:
>
> Thank you for your response. I am disappointed to hear my length of use was
too short. I had actually used it again this weekend instead of one of 6 stoves
i own to give it more use. However, you failed to mention the quality of the
review and its technical content. This would have been very enlightening.
Furthermore, considering almost all manufacturers replace or modify their gear
on annual basis, how many seasons would you suggest? I would think reviewing
gear still on the shelf would be very important.
>
> In addition, what would be a simple review that you can suggest? I have a
Velcro strap that has been in service for several years, some aluminum tent
stakes, 3 twenty year old thermarest sleeping pads, a metal cup, set of 20 year
old metal cutlery, 15 year old rei plastic fork, 20 year old mesh bag, 27 year
old Patagonia snap t synchylla, 20 year old msr whisperlite stove (although that
one has been beaten to death) and many more seasoned pieces of gear. Thank you
again for your input, I look forward to your response.:)
>
> Ray Tant
> 865-271-7152
>

Editors,
Here's one for the queue from me.
Andrea

HTML: http://tinyurl.com/d4uyapa

Text:

OR – Chinook ThermoPalm Mummy 32F Sleeping Bag
Owner Review by Andrea Murland
November 25, 2012

Product Information:
Manufacturer: Chinook Technical Outdoor
Manufacturer's URL: www.chinooktec.com
Model: ThermoPalm Mummy 32F
Year of Manufacture: 2008
MSRP: Not listed
Colour: Blue

Listed Weight: 1.8 lb (816 g) total
Measured Weight:  total: 1.9 lb (862 g), compression sack: 3.3 oz (94 g),
sleeping bag: 1.7 lb (790 g)
Listed Size: 83 in x 30 in x 20 in (210 x 75 x 50 cm)
Measured Size: 80 in (203 cm) long x 26 in (66 cm) wide at collar x 15 in (38
cm) wide at feet
Measured Compressed Size: approximately 8 in (20 cm) long with 7 in (18 cm)
diameter

Description
The Chinook ThermoPalm Mummy Sleeping  Bag is a synthetic-fill sleeping bag
rated to 32 F (0 C).  It has a mummy shape, so is tapered at the feet, with a
hood.  The manufacturer specifies that the filling is 12 oz (340 g) of Insufil
Thermo, which apparently has fibers that are supposed to not clump and also not
separate.  The outer shell is nylon taffeta, and the lining is "pongee classic",
which is a soft, woven fabric.  The bag has a two-way zipper that ends 3 in (7.6
cm) from the end of the bag at the feet.  There is a piece of material that goes
across the zipper opening at the collar and fastens to the other side with a
hook and loop closure, perhaps to keep the bag closed if the zipper is open
partway for venting.  The zipper on my bag is on the left side (as I'm laying in
it), and on the right side, at the top, is a drawcord with a cord-lock, which
tightens up the collar and the hood.  When fully released the hood lays flat. 
There is a Chinook Technical Outdoor logo embroidered into the taffeta exterior
in the center of the bag.

The compression sac is black nylon with the information about the sleeping bag
embroidered on the bottom.  The top closes with a drawstring with a cordlock. 
The 4 straps have standard buckles on them, and can be quickly released by
pulling up on the tab.  The strap that crosses the bottom of the sac doubles as
a handle when pulling the sleeping bag out of the compression sac.

Field Conditions:
I purchased the Chinook ThermoPalm Mummy in 2008 and used it extensively that
year while backpacking in Europe – about 35 nights in the backcountry, plus
several nights in hostels and on train station benches.  Most of the nights in
the backcountry I used it with a silk liner, and in all cases I slept on a
self-inflating mat.  Since 2008, I have used the bag for car-camping and staying
in cabins in the summer, and it has a permanent home in my car as my emergency
sleeping bag.  I have used the bag while hiking in temperatures down to about
freezing. I have worn a variety of layers while using the bag – everything from
a t-shirt and shorts to long underwear with a fleece, socks, rain gear, and a
toque.

Review:

Warmth & Comfort:
First, the good news: this bag is extremely comfortable. The soft lining is warm
and not slippery, so very comfortable against my face or other bare skin – it
feels like sleeping in sheets.  The bag is also roomy enough for me to
comfortably curl up on my side while the bag remains upright.

As far as warmth, I have found the sleeping bag to generally not be warm enough
for my backpacking trips.  I used it all summer in 2008, because I had no other
options, but those were the times that I was sleeping in every piece of clothing
in my backpack, including my rain gear (if it wasn't wet).  To be fair, it's
rated to 32 F (0 C), and we were usually at pretty decent elevation in the Alps,
but most of the nights it wasn't cold enough for frost or snow.  I am also a
cold sleeper.   Since 2008, I haven't taken this bag on a backpacking trip,
choosing to carrier a heavier and bulkier bag rated to -12 C (10 F) regardless
of the weather.

Other Features:
I enjoy having a two-way zipper on this sleeping bag on the rare occasion it was
warm enough that I felt it was necessary to vent it from the bottom.  I also
like that the hood lays flat when the drawcord is released all the way, for when
I don't need the hood wrapped around my head.
The compression sac does a good job of compressing the sleeping bag down to a
small size.

Durability:
The sleeping bag seems to be holding up pretty well.  It looks extremely
crinkled from being packed up all the time, but otherwise shows no obvious signs
of wear.  The zipper still zips smoothly.  The compression sac is also still in
good shape, though several places on the inside show evidence of a coating
starting to turn white and crack.


Summary
The Chinook ThermoPalm Mummy 32F Sleeping Bag is a synthetic mummy sleeping bag
that is good for very warm weather use, but unfortunately I have found to be too
cold for me for backpacking.

Thumbs Up:
Good durability
Lining is comfortable against skin
Compresses small

Thumbs Down:
Not warm enough for me

Hi Richard,
 
Thanksgiving worked out ok despite my getting sick on Wednesday night.  I still
enjoyed a lovely meal with family.  Nothing irritates me like being sick so
instead of cancelling our backpacking trip we just reduced the mileage...and the
weather cooperated.  I hope you had an enjoyable Thanksgiving also and have a
good travel week this week.
 
I have made the changes, uploaded and deleted the test file.  Hope you see you
again as I attempt to get caught up on some ORs.
 
Nancy

From: "richardglyon@..." <montana.angler@...>
To: BackpackGearTest@yahoogroups.com
Sent: Friday, November 23, 2012 12:52 PM
Subject: [BackpackGearTest] Edit/Approval - Primus PrimeLite Compact Trekk -
Nancy Griffith

 
Hi Nancy,

Hope you had a pleasant Thanksgiving. Your edits follow, in the usual format.
After revising you may upload to the existing folder, but bee sure you indicate
"Owner Review" when you upload. Also remember to delete your Tests/OR folder
copy.

Cheers, Richard

<<PRIMUS PRIMELITE CT HEADLAMP [title]>>
EDIT: On Primus's website it's the PrimeLite (not upper case L) Compact Trekk
(note the double k). Though it's abbreviated on the product itself, please
revise here. OK to abbreviate in the Review if you define it the first time you
use it.

<<Manufacturer: Primus>>
EDIT: Here it should be the manufacturer's full legal name, Primus AB. ["AB" is
the Swedish equivalent of "Inc."]

FIRST PHOTO
EDIT: This looks to me like it was taken from Primus's website. If so you need
to attribute it somewhere in your review.

<<Size: 2 in x 2.6 in x 1.3 in (50 mm x 66 mm x 32 mm)>>
EDIT: This is the listed size. Either add "Verified accurate" or add your own
measurements.

<<The Primus PrimeLite CT headlamp has one Luxeonâ„¢ diode in the center and
three white light-emitting diodes on either side. >>
EDIT: See EDIT above regarding name.
Edit: You might add "(LED)" after "diodes" for clarification.

<<There are two buttons on the top; one is simply and on/off and the the other
toggles through the modes. >>
EDIT: Delete the extra "the" after "on/off and."

<<The brightness levels for the six diode flood light are 25% and 100%. For the
center diode spot light the brightness levels are 50% and 100% brightness.>>
Edit: I'm confused. What are the percentages of? Maximum brightness?

<<The Primus Primelite CT headlamp seems to be a good quality light with
adequate output for general use in camp, for reading, walking, etc.>>
Edit: This is a bit of style commentary, but bears on BGT's prohibition of
projection. After three years' heavy use you ought to be able to say what it is,
or has been for you, not merely what it "seems to be."

<< It has been completely reliable throughout the battery life and has provided
great durability given all of the trips that it has been on.>>
Edit: "stated battery life" would add clarity




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