--- In backpackgeartesters@yahoogroups.com, "TheMiddleSister"
<TheMiddleSister@u...> wrote:
>
> I would LOVE to test this hat and will put in an application by
> tomorrow.  I might be testing multiple clothing items this winter
> (if they ever are shipped!), but this looks like a really neat hat
> and if apps are needed - I'm game! ;)
>
> Kathy


That's the spirit!

Already at that point myself.  I'll apply for the hat if needed, but I've
already gotten the message that I'm all full up!  Just let me know if I
should apply anyway, and I'll get ya an app in the next few days!  With a
shaved head, a hat regardless of style always helps!
TJ Smith


Fuzzy - you're the kind of tester we need.  As a test manager, you give
me LOTS OF WORK and I'm even getting kind of sick of seeing your
applications over, and over, and OVER again.  My only recourse is to
fill you up with gear and max you out so you have to stop applying (at
least for a while :)

Now there's inspiration for others to bug us with apps if I've ever
seen it!





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

--- In backpackgeartesters@yahoogroups.com, "Anthony \(TJ\) Smith"
<tjsmith1946@g...> wrote:
>
> Already at that point myself.  I'll apply for the hat if needed,
> but I've already gotten the message that I'm all full up!  Just let
> me know if I should apply anyway, and I'll get ya an app in the
> next few days!  With a shaved head, a hat regardless of style
> always helps!
> TJ Smith
>

Nah, we've got enough vets and newbies (w/o ANY tests even, but
applying for winter bags so I know they're in cold temps) that I
shouldn't have to even be talking to a "full" tester.  You're already
doing your part - thanks!

--- In backpackgeartesters@yahoogroups.com, "Andy Mytys" <amytys@h...>
wrote:
> My only recourse is to fill you up with gear and max you out so you
have to stop applying (at least for a while :)

Please... fill away!

fuzzy

Andy,

You'll have an app from me in the next day or two to test the winter
cap.  Initially, I chose not to submit an app, because the style did
not appeal to me and I felt that might bias my review.  Nevertheless, I
am willing to review anything and everything for which I can provide a
meaningful review.

Being looking for my app in the next day or two.  Thanks. Ryan

--- In backpackgeartesters@yahoogroups.com, "bigdawgryan"
<bigdawgryan@y...> wrote:
>
> Andy,
>
> Initially, I chose not to submit an app, because the style did
> not appeal to me and I felt that might bias my review.

I know where you're coming from.  I've come to realize that, at least
when I'm on the trail, there's generally nobody around that style would
make a difference to.  Again, it's not like the trail is a singles
bar.  Once you come to realize this, you can fully appeciate the simple
utility of a garment and leave style to those enjoying the frontcountry
resorts.  Especially with winter gear, what's important is that the
gear is effective at doing its job, which generally means keeping you
warm.  The hat can be as stylish as you want, but if the result is
frostbite, gangrene, etc. the girls aren't going to want you either ;)
Better to look like a dork.

>
> Being looking for my app in the next day or two.  Thanks. Ryan
>

Thanks!

Please accept my application to test the Outdoor Research Rando Cap.
I have read the BackpackGearTest Survival Guide, version 1202,
including Chapter 5. I agree to comply with all requirements.

Tester Information
Name: Raymond Estrella
Age: 44
Gender: Male
Height: 6' 3" (187.5 cm)
Weight: 200 lbs (90 kg)
Email address: rayestrella@...
City: Huntington Beach
State: California
Country: USA
Date: October 30, 2005

Backpacking Background:
I have been back packing since I was 14 years old. By the time I hit
18 I was getting about 5 good hikes (multi day) a year, and day
hikes at least once a week. So far this year I hiked 500 miles. (800
k) My style of hiking is to get up early, and hike hard for most the
day. I rarely stop to cook at mid-day, but always have a hot
breakfast and dinner. I put the miles on, usually 15-18 miles a day.
(24-29 k) I like to get to my days destination early enough to enjoy
the afternoon. Most of my hiking is in the Sierras, my favorite
place on Earth. I have hiked all over California, and in Nevada,
Idaho, Washington state, and Minnesota.
As I am getting older, I am making a concerted effort to lighten
weight everywhere I can. I have gone from a packed weight for a 4
day trip from 50+ lb, to 30 lb. And I am always looking for ways to
cut it more, without giving up a comfortable tent, and cooking good
meals.

I have trips planned to San Jacinto, The Bristlecone Forest, and the
Tahoe area this winter.

The test

I do a lot of winter hiking. I had 4 multi-day snow trips last
winter, and have 4 planned for this winter with more possible. The
big one will be an attempt on White Mountain elevation 14245' (4273
m) in January or February. (When ever they have the most snow) It
will be a 66 mile round trip starting at 7400' (2220 m) and will
take 7 to 10 days depending on conditions. The temperatures can get
to -10F (-23C) with winds gusting to 70 to 100 mph. (112 to 160
kp/h) I will also climb San Jacinto at least twice this winter.
Elevation 10825' (3247 m) In May I will attempt Shasta again, where
last year it was 12F (-11C) and snowed on us one day.

My brother-in-law and I do a lot of winter hiking. Today I just
agreed to take a newbie on his first winter hike so I can definitely
get the time in the snow with this hat. I am a very warm-blooded
person, so the breathabilty will be scrutinized. As will the water-
proof claim. Snow melts on a body-heat warmed cap. How will this do
under those conditions? When the wind kicks up I put a mask on and
goggles. How will this cap coexist with these?

I will also wear the cap under a climbing helmet on summit attempts.
I will see how comfortable this proves to be. I will check to see if
it bunches, or has flat seams.

I will have the flaps up a lot I am sure, so will be concerned with
their abilty to stay in place. Or will they loosen themselves,
falling down?

Will the wire brim hold up to being rolled or folded up and shoved
in my pack? Will it be easy to re-shape it? Will it break after
repeated stowing?

These are a few of the things I will be looking at if chosen to
participate in this test.

Thank you for your consideration.

My reports and reviews can be found at;

http://www.backpackgeartest.org/tester_reviews/rayestrella

I have completed my first test series, and ended my newbie status. I
have no other tests at this time. I have two more Owner Reviews
pending.

I can't get onto BGT to do anything, I need to upload my NGS TOPO
expansion pack LTR.  Any idea what's up?  I get this message:

FORBIDDEN:
Site Owner, Please contact your support center for assistance.

Jennifer Pope

Please accept my application to test the Humm Foods Larabars. I have
read the BackpackGearTest Survival Guide, version 1202, including
Chapter 5. I agree to comply with all requirements.

Tester Information
Name: Raymond Estrella
Age: 44
Gender: Male
Height: 6' 3" (187.5 cm)
Weight: 200 lbs (90 kg)
Email address: rayestrella@...
City: Huntington Beach
State: California
Country: USA
Date: November 1, 2005

Backpacking Background:
I have been back packing since I was 14 years old. By the time I hit
18 I was getting about 5 good hikes (multi day) a year, and day
hikes at least once a week. So far this year I hiked 500 miles. (800
k) My style of hiking is to get up early, and hike hard for most the
day. I rarely stop to cook at mid-day, but always have a hot
breakfast and dinner. I put the miles on, usually 15-18 miles a day.
(24-29 k) I like to get to my days destination early enough to enjoy
the afternoon. Most of my hiking is in the Sierras, my favorite
place on Earth. I have hiked all over California, and in Nevada,
Idaho, Washington state, and Minnesota.

As I am getting older, I am making a concerted effort to lighten
weight everywhere I can. I have gone from a packed weight for a 4
day trip from 50+ lb, to 30 lb. And I am always looking for ways to
cut it more, without giving up a comfortable tent, and cooking good
meals.

I have trips planned to San Jacinto, The Bristlecone Forest, and the
Tahoe area this winter.

The conditions

I do a lot of winter hiking. I had 4 multi-day snow trips last
winter, and have 4 planned for this winter with more possible. The
big one will be an attempt on White Mountain elevation 14245' (4273
m) in January or February. (When ever they have the most snow) It
will be a 66 mile round trip starting at 7400' (2220 m) and will
take 7 to 10 days depending on conditions. The temperatures can get
to -10F (-23C) with winds gusting to 70 to 100 mph. (112 to 160
kp/h) I will also climb San Jacinto at least twice this winter.
Elevation 10825' (3247 m) In May I will attempt Shasta again, where
last year it was 12F (-11C).

The test

Calories, a necessity on all hikes, grow in importance with winter
hiking. You need more fuel in winter to stay warm. And the 11,000'
peak that you do as a day hike in summer becomes a two or three day
ordeal when you are climbing through snow in below freezing weather.
And you need more calories to do it.

I have always taken "power" type bars on my hikes. (At least since
they first came out with them) They are always my lunch. And this
year I have started eating them for breakfast also. The amount of
nutrition per weight is hard to beat.  And the time savings over
cooking in the morning lets me get on the trail faster. Currently I
take a mix of Balance brand bars, and Organic Bar Inc. bars. The
latter are very similar to the LaraBars. By utilizing bars I was
able to pack 8 days of food in one bear canister last month.

If chosen to test the LaraBars I will use them the same way. I will
see if the taste is such that I look forward to having them for two
meals a day. Will they satisfy my hunger? Will they have staying
power? Will they taste as good as the flavors sound? (Cashew cookie,
yum…) If there are enough of them, I will let my brother-in-law try
them to get his opinion. He only eats natural, organic food while
hiking.

I will also see how they pack and travel. Will they turn into an
unappetizing bag of crumbs in my pack? Will they stay soft in cold
weather? I carry the lunch bars in my pocket to keep it from
freezing, and keep the breakfast bars in my sleeping bag. Will they
do well with this treatment?

And most important, will they replace my current favorite?

Thank you for your consideration.

My reports and reviews can be found at;

http://www.backpackgeartest.org/tester_reviews/rayestrella

I have completed my first test series, and ended my newbie status. I
have no other tests at this time. I have two more Owner Reviews
pending.

> Can someone explain to me how we can get 20+ applications in for a
> cold weather sleeping bag like the Valandre Shocking Blue but not one
> of those people (including myself) to apply for a winter hat?  Are we
> saying that we go out in sub-freezing conditions, but nobody wears a
> hat?  There's no winter hat that we're testing at the moment, hence
> my confusion as to why there's only one taker for this hat.

Sigh: it's alternating between +30 C (86 F) 70% RH and +20 C (68 F) with rain,
right now.
You guys have absolutely NO consideration for us from the other side of the
equator!

Cheers
Roger Caffin
(Yeah, OK, it can get colder in our alps, but I'm in Sydney right now!)

Nevermind, it already appears to be working again.
Jennifer

--- In backpackgeartesters@yahoogroups.com, "Jennifer"
<jennifer.pope@g...> wrote:
>
> I can't get onto BGT to do anything, I need to upload my NGS TOPO
> expansion pack LTR.  Any idea what's up?  I get this message:
>
> FORBIDDEN:
> Site Owner, Please contact your support center for assistance.
>
> Jennifer Pope
>

Please accept my application to test the Outdoor Research Rando Cap.
I have read the BackpackGearTest Survival Guide, version 1202,
including Chapter 5. I agree to comply with all requirements.

Tester Information
Name: Raymond Estrella
Age: 44
Gender: Male
Height: 6' 3" (187.5 cm)
Weight: 200 lbs (90 kg)
Email address: rayestrella@...
City: Huntington Beach
State: California
Country: USA
Date: November 1, 2005

Backpacking Background:
I have been back packing since I was 14 years old. By the time I hit
18 I was getting about 5 good hikes (multi day) a year, and day
hikes at least once a week. So far this year I hiked 500 miles. (800
k) My style of hiking is to get up early, and hike hard for most the
day. I rarely stop to cook at mid-day, but always have a hot
breakfast and dinner. I put the miles on, usually 15-18 miles a day.
(24-29 k) I like to get to my days destination early enough to enjoy
the afternoon. Most of my hiking is in the Sierras, my favorite
place on Earth. I have hiked all over California, and in Nevada,
Idaho, Washington state, and Minnesota.
As I am getting older, I am making a concerted effort to lighten
weight everywhere I can. I have gone from a packed weight for a 4
day trip from 50+ lb, to 30 lb. And I am always looking for ways to
cut it more, without giving up a comfortable tent, and cooking good
meals.

I have trips planned to San Jacinto, The Bristlecone Forest, and the
Tahoe area this winter.

The test

I do a lot of winter hiking. I had 4 multi-day snow trips last
winter, and have 4 planned for this winter with more possible. The
big one will be an attempt on White Mountain elevation 14245' (4273
m) in January or February. (When ever they have the most snow) It
will be a 66 mile round trip starting at 7400' (2220 m) and will
take 7 to 10 days depending on conditions. The temperatures can get
to -10F (-23C) with winds gusting to 70 to 100 mph. (112 to 160
kp/h) I will also climb San Jacinto at least twice this winter.
Elevation 10825' (3247 m) In May I will attempt Shasta again, where
last year it was 12F (-11C) and snowed on us one day.

My brother-in-law and I do a lot of winter hiking. Today I just
agreed to take a newbie on his first winter hike so I can definitely
get the time in the snow with this hat. I am a very warm-blooded
person, so the breathabilty will be scrutinized. As will the water-
proof claim. Snow melts on a body-heat warmed cap. How will this do
under those conditions? When the wind kicks up I put a mask on and
goggles. How will this cap coexist with these?

I will also wear the cap under a climbing helmet on summit attempts.
I will see how comfortable this proves to be. I will check to see if
it bunches, or has flat seams.

I will have the flaps up a lot I am sure, so will be concerned with
their abilty to stay in place. Or will they loosen themselves,
falling down?

Will the wire brim hold up to being rolled or folded up and shoved
in my pack? Will it be easy to re-shape it? Will it break after
repeated stowing?

These are a few of the things I will be looking at if chosen to
participate in this test. If chosen I would wear a size Large.

Thank you for your consideration.

My reports and reviews can be found at;

http://www.backpackgeartest.org/tester_reviews/rayestrella

I have completed my first test series, and ended my newbie status. I
have no other tests at this time. I have two more Owner Reviews
pending.

Same thing here.  And a friend who tried pulling it up got the same message.
TJ Smith


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

A Yankee *and* a Mac user......My, God, woman, how could you have sunk so
low???........   ;o)

Jerry


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





   _____

From: backpackgeartesters@yahoogroups.com
[mailto:backpackgeartesters@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of Leesa J
Sent: Tuesday, November 01, 2005 12:09 PM
To: backpackgeartesters@yahoogroups.com
Subject: [backpackgeartesters] Application - Lightening Snowshoes


I verify that I am a yankee. (Coy, don't hold that against me, at least I
use a Mac)
I would VERY much like to test these snowshoes. Leesa




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

Powers that Be:

An early heads up.  The baby has turned, dropped, and I've been having
contractions on and off for the past few days.  Although he's not due
until 11/24, he could arrive at any time.  Or late.

I'm going to do my best to get the FR in on time or early.  However,
if I go into labor early I may not get a chance to let you know or
post the FR before hand.  I will notify y'all and get it in asap. Promise!

Sonjia

Well, Shane says that Maine is really just a misplaced southern state - that
gets lots of snow. I think it may be easier to convert your theological
beliefs than your technological ones...
I really do like my Mac, it does what I want it to, and I don't have to
click on 'start' to shut it down. ; )
Leesa

On 11/1/05, Chief Moderator <ChiefModerator@...> wrote:
>
>  A Yankee *and* a Mac user......My, God, woman, how could you have sunk so
> low???........ ;o)
>
> Jerry
>
>
> <http://www.backpackgeartest.org/> http://www.BackpackGearTest.org : the
> most comprehensive interactive gear reviews and tests on the planet.
>
>
>
>
>
> _____
>
> From: backpackgeartesters@yahoogroups.com
> [mailto:backpackgeartesters@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of Leesa J
> Sent: Tuesday, November 01, 2005 12:09 PM
> To: backpackgeartesters@yahoogroups.com
> Subject: [backpackgeartesters] Application - Lightening Snowshoes
>
>
> I verify that I am a yankee. (Coy, don't hold that against me, at least I
> use a Mac)
> I would VERY much like to test these snowshoes. Leesa
>
>
>
>
> [Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
>
>
>
>  SPONSORED LINKS
>   Outdoor
recreation<http://groups.yahoo.com/gads?t=ms&k=Outdoor+recreation&w1=Outdoor+rec\
reation&w2=Recreation+vehicles&w3=Gsi+outdoors&w4=Outdoors&w5=Recreation+jobs&w6\
=Recreation+jobs&c=6&s=123&.sig=oFEu6xvdIQZDa5H6NxqHUQ>  Recreation
>
vehicles<http://groups.yahoo.com/gads?t=ms&k=Recreation+vehicles&w1=Outdoor+recr\
eation&w2=Recreation+vehicles&w3=Gsi+outdoors&w4=Outdoors&w5=Recreation+jobs&w6=\
Recreation+jobs&c=6&s=123&.sig=sntvw2-82wrdGg8FArPyjQ>  Gsi
>
outdoors<http://groups.yahoo.com/gads?t=ms&k=Gsi+outdoors&w1=Outdoor+recreation&\
w2=Recreation+vehicles&w3=Gsi+outdoors&w4=Outdoors&w5=Recreation+jobs&w6=Recreat\
ion+jobs&c=6&s=123&.sig=aFyHKEWMvkvuveBXoxGRkQ>
>
Outdoors<http://groups.yahoo.com/gads?t=ms&k=Outdoors&w1=Outdoor+recreation&w2=R\
ecreation+vehicles&w3=Gsi+outdoors&w4=Outdoors&w5=Recreation+jobs&w6=Recreation+\
jobs&c=6&s=123&.sig=9SDgba5mFnwqIoWVLCJqSA>  Recreation
>
jobs<http://groups.yahoo.com/gads?t=ms&k=Recreation+jobs&w1=Outdoor+recreation&w\
2=Recreation+vehicles&w3=Gsi+outdoors&w4=Outdoors&w5=Recreation+jobs&w6=Recreati\
on+jobs&c=6&s=123&.sig=Y_4FwVWw5PLv3gIz2-eGxQ>  Recreation
>
jobs<http://groups.yahoo.com/gads?t=ms&k=Recreation+jobs&w1=Outdoor+recreation&w\
2=Recreation+vehicles&w3=Gsi+outdoors&w4=Outdoors&w5=Recreation+jobs&w6=Recreati\
on+jobs&c=6&s=123&.sig=Y_4FwVWw5PLv3gIz2-eGxQ>
>  ------------------------------
> YAHOO! GROUPS LINKS
>
>
>    - Visit your group
"backpackgeartesters<http://groups.yahoo.com/group/backpackgeartesters>"
>    on the web.
>     - To unsubscribe from this group, send an email to:
>   
backpackgeartesters-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com<backpackgeartesters-unsubscribe@\
yahoogroups.com?subject=Unsubscribe>
>     - Your use of Yahoo! Groups is subject to the Yahoo! Terms of
>    Service <http://docs.yahoo.com/info/terms/>.
>
>
>  ------------------------------
>



--
This land is your land, this land is my land...
Woody Guthrie


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

On Nov 1, 2005, at 2:53 PM, Andy Mytys wrote:

> --- In backpackgeartesters@yahoogroups.com, "Anthony \(TJ\) Smith"
> <tjsmith1946@g...> wrote:
>
>>
>> Already at that point myself.  I'll apply for the hat if needed,
>> but I've already gotten the message that I'm all full up!  Just let
>> me know if I should apply anyway, and I'll get ya an app in the
>> next few days!  With a shaved head, a hat regardless of style
>> always helps!
>> TJ Smith
>>
>>
>
> Nah, we've got enough vets and newbies (w/o ANY tests even, but
> applying for winter bags so I know they're in cold temps) that I
> shouldn't have to even be talking to a "full" tester.  You're already
> doing your part - thanks!

I haven't seen the hat yet, will look at it soon. I guess I'm
questioning why a winter hat is on the "newbie limit" list, I would
guess this would be an easy test that a newbie could handle with
something else.

mike, just curious

On Nov 1, 2005, at 4:58 PM, Leesa J wrote:

> Well, Shane says that Maine is really just a misplaced southern
> state - that
> gets lots of snow. I think it may be easier to convert your
> theological
> beliefs than your technological ones...
> I really do like my Mac, it does what I want it to, and I don't
> have to
> click on 'start' to shut it down. ; )
> Leesa

AMEN, from one Mac user to another. Also don't have to worry about
all those viruses, miners, etc.

mike

Colleen-

The report has been uploaded. Sorry for the double upload notice, I
messed something up on the first upload, so I had to fix it.

http://tinyurl.com/85p8e

I think the NGS Expansion pack test is done now!

Jennifer Pope

>
> Hullo Jennifer,
>
> good report, only a handful of edits.  here we go...

--- In backpackgeartesters@yahoogroups.com, Mike Lipay <hiking@w...>
wrote:
>
> I haven't seen the hat yet, will look at it soon. I guess I'm
> questioning why a winter hat is on the "newbie limit" list, I
would
> guess this would be an easy test that a newbie could handle with
> something else.
>
> mike, just curious
>


Dunno.  Maybe because it's $45.  Maybe because we have a bunch of
newbies w/o ANY tests, so we wanted to limit the pool and give 'em a
chance (note, didn't take advantage of it).  Like I said, the Test
Manager area works on committee.  I volunteer to run lots of test
calls, but I certainly don't make or, surprisingly, question the
rules.  I generally just do what I'm told over on that side (wonder
if anyone's noticed that yet :)

Hey Leesa,

Just so you know, you are not alone. I'm a proud Yankee and a
dedicated MAC user.

Someday MACs will rule the world!!

Bob




On Nov 1, 2005, at 2:42 PM, Chief Moderator wrote:

> A Yankee *and* a Mac user......My, God, woman, how could you have
> sunk so
> low???........   ;o)
>
> Jerry

Please accept my application to test the OR Rando Cap. I have read
version 1202 of the Survival Guide and agree to abide by all the
rules. My tester agreement is on file.  I would require a size Large
for this hat and would prefer the black option since that will look
less odd with my red jacket.  Sorry this app is late coming in;
Halloween is a busy time for me even though I don't have kids and
I've had reports to write.  I do think I could put this hat through
a good workout though.

I realize that I was recently put on the "maxed out" list. However,
since that time one of my tests has been cancelled (the Adventure
Medical kit), two tests have ended (KINeSYS sunscreen & NGS TOPO!
expansion pack), and two other tests will be ending this month (most
likely before this test would start – ProBar & Keen Taos). I'm also
starting to worry about the two Moving Comfort tests that I'm apart
of since those selections have been finalized for a while and
nothing has shipped yet. I think this frees me up for testing
several more items.

Thanks for considering my application, Jennifer Pope

Biographical Information
Name: Jennifer Pope
Age: 24 (for another couple weeks)
Gender: Female
Height: 5 ft 7 in (1.7 m)
Weight: 140 lb (64 kg)
Head circumference: 23 in (58 cm)
Hat size: 7 3/8
Email address: Jennifer dot Pope at gmail dot com
Location: Los Angeles, CA

Backpacking Background
Newbie. I've been a car-camper as long as I can remember and started
backpacking in Northern California when I was 16. I'm just getting
back into backpacking after a hiatus during college. I backpack in
Sierras as well as other National Forests closer to Los Angeles. I
also spend time in the California deserts and the mountains and
coast of Northern California. I'm a tent camper leaning towards
lightweight; but I am a fan of gadgets and I like being comfortable.
I also do a mix of short and long day hikes in and around Los
Angeles.

Field Information
During the fall and winter I will be taking trips into the San
Bernardino and Angeles National Forests (other areas in Southern CA
aren't off limits either). These generally aren't planned far in
advance, but I'll likely be out a weekend each month. Temperatures
on all these trips should be fairly mild ranging from the teens to
60 F (-12 to 15 C). Weather should be fairly mild as well with an
always looming possibility of rain or snow depending on elevation.
The San
Bernardino Mountains received their first dusting of snow a couple
weeks ago. I hope to make it up there one more time before the
mountains are covered in snow. Elevations range from around 4,000 to
over 10,000 feet (1,200 – 3,000 m) though I might not get that high
now that the snow is starting to fall. The Angeles National Forest
has trails in lower elevations that stay out of the snow year-round.

The deserts in South-Eastern California are also a frequent
destination for the fall and winter months (as long as the rain
isn't as bad as last year). The terrain here is rugged and despite
people's initial impressions of the desert, it does get cold at
night. The higher elevations of the desert even see the occasional
snow storm.
According to online temperature records the average lows in the
winter are about 30 F (0 C). Thus far I have not backpacked in the
desert (carrying all that water is a deterrent for me) but I
frequently car camp and day hike.  This hat may very well be too
warm for use in the desert.  It's slated as a `cold weather' hat; so
only time will tell if it's overkill for the weather I will see
there.  If I am in the desert during a cold spell it will likely
come in very handy though.

I also have a goal of taking one overnight snow trip this year. I'd
like to snow camp and move up to snow backpacking this winter. I'm
currently reading anything I can get my hands on and I've signed up
for both a snowshoeing and a snow camping workshop (one of them is
tomorrow!). Depending on how well snow travel treats me I may be
seeing significantly colder temperatures and high elevations.
Snowshoeing should be a definite winter activity for me.

I will be in Northern California (the real Northern California, like
almost to Mt. Shasta) for several days in November about a week in
late December. While there I will probably be heading out on several
day hikes depending on what the weather is like (probably one
snowshoe hike). I also may be setting up a tent in the backyard
while we're there. With all the siblings marrying and bringing home
spouses the space inside the house is getting tight. Last year it
snowed at Christmastime but that isn't the norm; rain and cold
temperatures are though.  On our way to or from this trip we're
going to try and stop off in Yosemite Valley.  I'm hoping that this
will be to camp for one or two nights, but weather will determine
that.  When we were there last Christmastime there was snow on the
ground and it was wet and cold.  Yosemite Valley is at about 4000 ft
(1200 m) and the average temperatures in December range between 26
and 48 F (-3 to 9 C).

This hat would accompany me on all my backpacking and camping
adventures over the next four months. As mentioned above, I like to
get away camping or backpacking about a weekend per month with 2
nights out per weekend. This would give me four nights out in the
Field Test period and four additional nights out in the Long Term
Test period. It's also likely that I will wear the hat while doing
various day hikes in colder temperatures.

Note: I have NO specific trips outlined in my field information.
I'm really not sure how I can be more specific.  Conditions change
day-to-day and we're currently going through a heat spell.  I'll
probably be out camping this weekend, but I'm not even sure what the
conditions are going to be like then.  I am also not willing to
drive in a blizzard.  Last year we had some crazy storm systems
which I will not drive in so it's hard for me to guarantee being
able to make it to certain locations.  What I can say is that
backpacking/hiking/camping are the main source of fun for my husband
and I so while I can't say exactly where we'll be, we will be
somewhere.

Previous Hat Experience

Currently I wear a Columbia fleece hat and then cover that with the
hood of my jacket if there are wet, windy, or really cold
conditions.  I like this system because I love fleece.  I love how
it feels and I love that I can sleep very comfortably in it.  Being
able to take my hood off and on is nice too.  My hood has a flimsy
bill on the front which keeps the rain off my face somewhat.  I'm
very satisfied with my current setup.

Test Plan

First of all I plan on wearing this hat whenever I'm in cold
conditions.  This may include a limited amount of everyday/urban
use, but I doubt Los Angeles will ever get cold enough to use this
hat (it's over 80 F/25 C today).  I am taking a couple trips where
chilly temperatures and rain (possibly snow) are likely and day time
highs will be in the 40s (5 C).

Most of my use of this hat will be for my outdoor adventures in
cooler temperatures.  This will include backpacking, camping,
hiking, and snowshoeing.  I'm currently not a snowboarder or a
skier, so I will not use the hat in this capacity.

Comfort and Fit

I think I have a fairly large head (7 3/8).  How well does the hat
fit, is it constricting in any area?  Is the chin strap snug but not
choking?  Is the hook and loop closure secure?  Does the bill of the
hat hit me in the correct spot on my forehead?  Does the bill
intrude into my vision?  What can I do with my hair in this hat?  It
may sound unimportant to a male, but hair causes a big problem for
me when I'm wearing a hat.  I'm sure a regular pony tail won't be
possible; will a braid fit comfortably under the hat?  Does the chin
strap keep my hair out of my face so I don't need to tie my hair
back?  Does it make my hair static-y and crazy?  Where is
the `external drawcord adjustment'?  How does it work and is it easy
to adjust?

Function

Is the hat completely waterproof in function (it's supposed to be
according to the website)?  Does water run off the hat, or does it
retain moisture?  Can I shake it dry?  Does the bill adequately keep
rain and snow off my face (even in wind)?  Is the bill stiff
enough?  Can I easily form the bill to my liking and will it stay
that way.  Does the hat keep my ears warm?  Is the fleece warm and
cozy or scratchy?  Is my brother going to laugh at me in this hat,
or is he going to want to borrow it?  Do I feel silly even when I'm
only with my husband in the backcountry?  Hopefully the hat looks
better on my head than the picture on the website leads me to
believe.  Though style has nothing to do with how a hat functions, I
don't think the two need to be mutually exclusive.

Can I sleep in this hat?  Do I need to bring another hat just to
sleep in?  Can I turn the bill up so it's not in my face while I
sleep?  I have a feeling it's going to be too strange to try and
sleep in this hat.


Layering ability

Layering is very important in winter conditions.  How well does this
hat work as part of a head warmth system.  Does it fit snuggly and
comfortably under the hood of jacket (shell)?  Can I fit a hat
underneath it?  My head isn't quite a large, but I'm requesting that
size for a small amount of added room.  Can I fit my fleece hat
under it (probably not)?  Are there other hats out there that will
fit under it?  Or do I not need another hat?

Current Tests
I am currently involved in seven tests. This seems like a lot but two
of these tests will be ending in the next month. By the time this
item arrives I will likely be done with both of these tests. It also
seems likely to me that two of these tests might be cancelled
(unless the mods know something I don't about the Moving Comfort
items?) which would put me down to three small items.

Tests (in order of completion): ProBar energy bars (LTR ~11/15),
Keen Taos sandals (LTR 11/29), Spenco insoles, Teko light hiking
socks, Coleman Backpacker Table, Moving Comfort kickback pant, and
Moving Comfort Fiona sports bra.

Outstanding Applications
Valandre Shocking Blue sleeping bag.   I'm going to try and submit
apps for the Lightening Snowshoes and the MSR XGK EX stove before
they close.

Monitor Duties
Gerber Recon (no IRs posted yet)
Warm-n-Cozy Jacket (IRs edited)
All Terrain Recovery Rub (FR testing)
AquaStar Plus UV Purifier (FR testing)

Mentor Duties
I am currently mentoring two individuals and serve as the Mentor
Coordinator.

Completed Tests

I have completed four test series so far and five Owner Reviews. My
four completed test series are:

NGS Topo Streets and 3-D Views, expansion pack
http://tinyurl.com/85p8e
KINeSYS Sunscreen Products http://tinyurl.com/dgve7
Heat Treat Warmers http://tinyurl.com/c7o27
ProBar Energy Bars (re-opened) http://tinyurl.com/asalv

All my reviews can be found here: http://tinyurl.com/8lcfc

Thanks for the opportunity to apply for this test.
Jennifer Pope

webby stuff can be found:

http://www.backpackgeartest.org/reviews/test/TESTS/FRspectrumbugstuff
-heather/

--------------------------
Field Report Spectrum Brands Advanced Insect Repellant

November 1, 2005

Tester Info:

Name: Heather Oakes Palmer
Age: 28
Gender: Female
Height: 5'5" (1.68 m)
Weight: 140 lbs (64 kg)
Email address: alekto-at-yahoo.com
City, State, Country: Atlanta, GA, United States

Backpacking Background: I consider myself an intermediate hiker and
beginning backpacker for over five years; my longest backpacking
trip being only three nights. Day hiking and weekend backpacking
comprise most of my weekend warrior experience averaging one
backpacking trip per month and two day hikes per month averaging
between 10-15 miles (16.1- 24.2 km) per day. I tend to backpack in
warm, humid climates, with a good amount of hiking in the southern
Appalachian Mountains and I have rarely hiked in below freezing or
snowy conditions yet. I am a lightweight backpacker and buy my gear
accordingly, often splitting various objects and amounts of weight
with my husband.
Locations:

I am testing the repellent primarily in day hikes and overnight
backpack trips in the North Georgia Mountains. The average
elevations I will be hiking in will range from 2000 – 5500 ft (610-
1676 m) and late summer/fall weather will fluctuate wildly with
temperatures from the 50's- high 90's F (10- 32 C) during the day,
and maybe as low as 40 F (4 C) at night up in the higher elevations.
The storms will both raise and lower the humidity, and the whole
area will slowly cool off starting in October but bugs will stick
around much longer depending on how much rain the area will get.
Further south in Georgia and in hikes around the metro Atlanta area,
the heat (and bugs) will stick around much longer due to lower
elevations of around 1400 ft (427 m) and heat retained by the cities.

Report:

For initial impressions and further product information, please
refer to my Initial Report.

Travel Size Pump 1 oz. (28.3 g)

With its smaller weight and size, this product was used the most
over the testing period. The travel sized pump is not as easy to
spray as the larger one; the pump itself seems to stick and the
nozzle is positioned in an awkward angle to the large orange cap
necessitating direction adjustment to prevent me from spraying into
the cap. At a car camping site just off the North Carolina section
of the Appalachian Trail, the creek-side campsite and its many
hungry bugs caused me to practically take a shower in the picaridin
in order to keep my skin intact. There was no sweating or water to
wash the repellant away, but I still had to bathe in the repellant
twice over about a three hour period of setting up and sitting
around camp. During a backpacking trip in Saguaro National Park East
ton the Rincon Peak trail, I ran into more mosquitoes than I had
imagined in Arizona. A few got me before I could dig the repellant
out of my pack on the trail. At camp I reapplied the spray but did
not see many bugs at the site. I did use the spray the next day on
the rest of the trip only in the afternoon when we were hiking below
about 6000ft (1828 m). Overall the bugs tended to be on the trail
either before I got to spray myself, or after I had hiked and sweat
for a few hours. In Aravaipa Canyon, a good number of bugs were buys
near and in the creek on either side. I sprayed myself on the legs
and arms with the water washing the repellant off my legs as soon as
I crossed the creek. While in the water, I barely needed repellant
on my legs but the bugs still went after everything above the knees.
The spray was needed all over at camp, especially during the pretty
warm night. No bugs in the spotted or felt the next day during the
early morning on the hike out.

Large Pump 7.5 oz (212.6 g)

On many day hikes I chose to test the larger spray bottle because
weight was not an issue, and I also wanted to see if that large
bottle would break and leak all over my pack. The first test was
actually in the city when I stood outside for several hours after
Hurricane Katrina interviewing people and handing out supplies.
After plenty of mosquitoes and sweat from the heat, the spray kept
the bugs away making that first test of the repellant positive. From
anecdotal experience I believe the bugs in the woods to be much more
hard-core than their wimpy city cousins, but my first day hike test
found the repellant holding up to the bug onslaught for a good four
hour hike in North Carolina. While that hike caused minimal sweating
and there was no water near the trail the next hike to Blood
Mountain was a better test of the repellant. Due to illness I had to
shorten the normally 12 mile (19.3 km) loop to 6 miles (9.65 km), I
still needed one big reapplication of the product after I had sweat
it all off. Those two applications worked pretty well, even while
taking a short break next to a creek I actually sat there and
watched the blood-sucking fiends fly by and not land. I them taunted
them mercilessly.

As a comparison of products; during a 12 mile (19.3 km) day hike
near Atlanta I began the trails with one leg covered in Spectrum
Brands Insect Repellant and the other with a DEET product. Both
products prevented me from getting insect bites, but there were
differences in the amounts used and feel. The DEET product was used
minimally as per the instructions, applied only once, felt greasy,
and smelled bad. The Spectrum Brands product felt light, had no real
smell, and needed two very thorough applications to work.

Wipes

The lightest of the three products, I first tested the wipes in the
city during an outdoor festival that began at dusk and lasted
another few hours into the night. After three days of non-stop rain,
the bugs were out in force. I only needed to use one wipe to cover
my lower arms, neck, part of my face, and all other exposed pieces
of skin, I even wiped some of my clothing. The wipes worked well at
keeping away the massive amounts of insects at the festival where I
did not sweat nor was there any rain. Not only was the alcoholic
smell much more pronounced with the wipes, they also felt fairly
sticky before drying out my skin much more than the sprays. I really
did not like how they dried out my skin, or the greasy medicinal-
feel during application. I also have used the wipes during day hikes
at a state park very near Atlanta. The trails can be made into a 12
mile (19.3k km) loop that I use often, following a creek and going
through woods. Due to the heat and humidity, I sweat enough on these
trails to necessitate reapplications of the wipes. On one trip to
the trails I only needed one reapplication, but a second trip with
higher temperatures caused me to need a total of three wipes over a
period of about four and half hours.


Summary:

The Spectrum Brands insect repellant mostly satisfies the claims of
its advertising. The product dries quickly and does not leave a
sticky residue, is usually odorless and always colorless, has not
harmed any materials it has come into contact with during my
testing, and mostly keeps the bugs away. On the other hand, the
product seems only effective in keeping away bugs when a large
quantity is used often with multiple applications as the product
seems to be less effective when mixed with water and sweat. A creek
side camp site in North Carolina needed two applications of the
repellant over a period of three hours setting up camp at night, and
then two applications in the morning breaking camp to keep the bugs
away using almost half of a small 1 oz. (28.3 g) spray bottle. While
the wipes and small pump are the smallest and lightest of the three
products tested and therefore carried most often, not one of the
pumps have never spilled or broken when carried in daypack, purse,
or backpack. I have successfully applied the spray to clothing with
no damage to the fabric, and it did seem to help keep me bite-free.
I regret not being able to test this product during the height of
bug season here in Georgia, but even during this minor bug season
the Spectrum Brands product can really only get an "OK" out of me.

Likes:
1. No greasy-poisoned feeling on my skin
2. Sprays kept my hands clean
3. No smell

Dislikes:
1. I need to bathe in the stuff to get it work
2. Needs repeat applications when sweating or in water

thank goodness the subject line got changed.  I thought I had 10
more apps...which would not be a bad thing but I'm trying to keep up
with them:')

For the record, I appreciate all these yankee apps and the ones to
come.  Will try not to hold it against anybody, specially sence I
aske for yankee apps.  Now...could we not discuss the pros ans cons
of yankees and macs anymore on this list.  Andrew will sic the goons
on us.   BTW I learned how to always get the last word in when
arguing with my wife.  Just say :Your right honey".  Works every
time.

Coy Boy

--- In backpackgeartesters@yahoogroups.com, Bob <backpackerbob@c...>
wrote:
>
> Hey Leesa,
>
> Just so you know, you are not alone. I'm a proud Yankee and a
> dedicated MAC user.
>
> Someday MACs will rule the world!!
>
> Bob
>
>
>
>
> On Nov 1, 2005, at 2:42 PM, Chief Moderator wrote:
>
> > A Yankee *and* a Mac user......My, God, woman, how could you
have
> > sunk so
> > low???........   ;o)
> >
> > Jerry
>

> >  A Yankee *and* a Mac user......My, God, woman, how could you have sunk so
> > low???........ ;o)
> I really do like my Mac, it does what I want it to, and I don't have to
> click on 'start' to shut it down. ; )
> Leesa

Fights rough, too!

Cheers
Roger Caffin

Mike, this is your gentle official edit on the IR - Kershaw Rainbow Leek
Knife - Mike Lipay

A couple of small edits - and a few comments. You got the comments
partly because this was the first of these reviews I've done, and as I
say below there is full scope for you to decide whether, or how, to
respond to them.


Mike Lipay wrote:

>Initial Report - Kershaw Rainbow Leek Knife
>by Mike Lipay - October 29, 2005
>
>Mfg. Specs from website
>Model    1660VIB
>Steel    440A stainless-steel titanium-oxide coated
>Handle    410 stainless-steel titanium-oxide coated
>Blade    3 in. (7.6 cm)
>Closed    4 in. (10.1 cm)
>Weight    3.1 oz (87.9 g) with soft zipper case
>
>Personal measurements
>Blade    2-7/8 in. (7.3 cm)
>Closed    4 in. (10.2 cm)
>Weight    3.5 oz (99.2 g) with soft zipper case / 2.9 oz (82.2 g)
>without case
>
>
>
edit: you could get away with integer gram values - a tenth of a gram is
a pretty tiny weight.

>Background    I started hiking back in the '60s and have spent most
>of my life in the outdoors. I prefer to hike solo, or with my kids,
>but also work as a volunteer trail guide for local clubs, and teach
>hiking and LNT skills through our local community college. I am, by
>no means, an ultralight backpacker (my external frame pack weighs in
>at 29-33 lbs / 13-15 kgs); I prefer primitive to tech (hiking staff
>to trekking poles, compass to GPS, film to digital, fire to fuel). My
>backpacking is pretty much limited to weekends, and one full-week per
>year (usually in the summer), with assorted canoe, caving, and
>rafting trips to round things out. I spend most of my time hiking the
>Allegheny Mountains (Pennsylvania and West Virginia) where there are
>more trails than you could walk in a lifetime, and conditions range
>from easy to strenuous.
>
>
>
edit: I didn't need to count to know that is more than 100 words ...
please trim it down to near 100 words

>Delivery    The knife was delivered by UPS in a standard box, wrapped
>in crushed brown paper as padding. Inside the box was a display box,
>proudly bearing the U.S. flag, and the words "Made in USA, Printed in
>USA." For someone interested in purchasing only "Made in the USA"
>products this is helpful information. The display package measures
>(my measurements) 6-1/2 x 2-5/8 x 1-1/2 in (16.5 x 6.7 x 3.8 cm) and
>weighs in at 4.6 oz (130 g).
>
>
>
edit: preferable to not include that much delivery detail (most readers
wouldn't get their knife via UPS) - so the first sentence could go.

>Appearance, Features, and Usage
>     This is one time when a picture IS work a thousand words.
>
Edit: work -> worth

>     •    Opening is an extremely easy and safe one-handed operation,
>for right or left handed people. By holding the knife in my hand,
>with the back of the knife in my palm, I used my index finger to
>flick the indexing pin (see photo below). The patented Speed-Safe
>technology snaps the blade into an open-locked position in a fraction
>of a second, surprised me the first time I did it. Once opened the
>blade is securely locked in position.
>
>
comment: this is probably just a result of my complete lack of interest
in, or knowledge of, knives - so you are free to decide that no one who
wanted to read this review would need to ask such dumb questions. But I
think it would help the (very casual) reader if you could say a little
to explain:
- what's an indexing pin ?
- is the "locking mechanism" the same as the "safety lock" (I think not
from the photo, but I'm still not sure)
- what do you do to release it ?


>     •    Closing the blade is not quite as safe, and requires some
>attention. The locking mechanism is located in the front of the knife
>body and must be moved out of the way. The safest way I found to do
>this is to hold the knife with the back side in my palm (just as when
>I opened it), then I used my thumb to move the locking mechanism out
>of the way. Now, using my other hand, I closed the blade part-way,
>moved my thumb out of harms way, then finished closing the blade.
>This is where I felt uncomfortable, if I had closed the blade too
>quickly there would be a possibility that I could close the blade on
>my thumb.
>
>
comment: I just can't picture this - maybe because I don't know more
about what the locking mechanism is like, or what action is needed. Just
as above, I think expanding on this would be helpful - but it may be
that everyone over the age of 12 in the US would "just know" all this :-)

edit: "out of harms way" should be "out of harm's way" (i.e. apostrophe)

>If nothing
>else, we will see how good a job this knife does with bandages!
>
>
>
comment: let's not find that out, please !

--
Alex Tweedly       http://www.tweedly.net



--
No virus found in this outgoing message.
Checked by AVG Free Edition.
Version: 7.1.362 / Virus Database: 267.12.6/152 - Release Date: 31/10/2005

Please accept my application to test the MSR Lightning Snowshoes. I
have read v.1202 of the Survival Guide and agree to abide by its
rules. I also understand the new time frames for testing and agree to
adhere to them.

Should I be selected to test the MSR Lightning Snowshoes I will
require a size 22", as determine by the MSR website information.

Thanks for the consideration,

Mike Lipay


APPLICATION TO TEST: MSR Lightning Snow Shoes

Please consider my application to test the MSR Lightning Snow Shoes,
I have read, and will comply, with the rules in revision #1202 of the
BGT Survival Guide, and the new 4-month test plan.

My tester agreement is on file.


PERSONAL INFORMATION
Name:   Mike Lipay
Age:    50
Gender: Male
Height: 5 ft 8 in (173 cm)
Weight: 190 lbs (86 kg)
Email:  hikingATwesternpaDOTus
City, State: Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Backpacking Background: I've been hiking and backpacking with the Boy
Scouts since the '60s, although currently I hike more solo, with my
kids, or as a trail guide for a local outdoor group. I am no
ultralight backpacker, my pack (external frame) weighs 29-40 lbs
(13-18 kgs) loaded (not including food), though I am always on the
look out 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 do carry some techie stuff as well, recently swtiching
over to a digital camera from film, and an UV sterilizer from a
filter pump.

Field Information: Southwestern Pennsylvania (where I call home) sees
an average of 43.1 in (1.1 m) of snowfall annually from November
through March, with 40 in (1.0 m) of that coming from December
through March. Ignoring the ski facilities, the areas where I hike
tend to see 50-60 in (1.3 - 1.5 m) of snow which tends to stick
around through most of the winter. Based on this data I feel I will
have sufficient snow available to test the MSR Lightning Snow Shoes.
Terrain is mountainous, with elevations changing from 1200 - 3230 ft
(366 - 985 m), lending plenty of opportunity to test these snow shoes
on ascents and descents. Many of the trails are used for cross-
country skiing, some even for snowmobiling.

General Concerns: I have never used snow shoes before, I usually just
trudge along or look for areas with little snow on the ground. I am
looking forward to the MSR Lightning Snow Shoes opening up new
grounds and adventures in hiking. My chief concerns are:

How well they will attach to standard boots
Ease of attachment and removal as the level of snow varies
How easy is it to learn how to walk in snow shoes
How do they work when the snow disappears and the mud replaces it
The Laurel Ridge (where I do most of my hiking) is notable for it’s
rocky terrain, what kind of footing will I have with rocks under the
snow

Initial Review: When the MSR Lightning Snow Shoes arrive I will be
interested in:

How easily do they attach and remove
Can they be manipulated with gloves on
Can I attach them to my backpack for transporting
Are there limitations on what boots they will work with (I have several)
Walking in the backyard and a local park, how will they perform in
the mud, and how easy are they to use

Field use: I do several hikes in the winter, mostly day hikes. The
Laurel Ridge is prone to regular and deep snowfalls, for this reason
I have always been cautious about overnight hikes, or hikes more than
a few miles from the trailhead, in the winter. I am hoping that the
MSR Lightning Snow Shoes will change that by allowing me to venture
further and longer than I have in the past.

Initial use will be on day hikes until I am comfortable with
attaching them in the field, and walking with them on snow and rocks.
As my comfort level advances my hikes will also, with the latter
hikes including overnight trips into more mountainous regions.


LINK TO TESTER REVIEWS:
http://www.backpackgeartest.org/tester_reviews/w_pa_hiker

HISTORY:
    Owner Reviews:
      Wolf Pack backpack for dogs
      Sierra Zip Stove
      Heater Meals
      Sierra Designs Alpha Tent
      Steri-Pen Water Sterilizer

    Completed Tests:
      Brunton Liberty Mantleless Lantern

    Tests in Progress:
      Spenco OAS Day Hiker Footbeds
      Kershaw Rainbow Leek Knife

    Awaiting Product:
      Gerber Recon Flashlight

    Monitoring:
      Spyderco Salt 1 Knife (in FR stage)


Thanks for the time taken to review this, and for the opportunity to
apply to test these snowshoes.

Mike Lipay

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

this thing just looks butch, I want it.

------
Application to Test Gerber Nautilus

November 1, 2005

Please accept my application to test the Gerber Nautilus. I have
read the Survival guide 1202 and in particular chapter 5 and agree
to follow all guidelines within. I have sent Shane my tester
agreement (reprocessed 3/3/05) and will abide by all rules therein.

Tester Info:
Name: Heather Oakes Palmer
Age: 28
Gender: Female
Height: 5'5" (1.68 m)
Weight: 140 lbs (64 kg)
Email address: alekto-at-yahoo.com
City, State, Country: Atlanta, GA, United States
Backpacking Background: I consider myself an intermediate hiker and
beginning backpacker for over five years; my longest backpacking
trip being only three nights. Day hiking and weekend backpacking
comprise most of my weekend warrior experience averaging one
backpacking trip per month and two day hikes per month averaging
between 10-15 miles (16.1- 24.2 km) per day. I tend to backpack in
warm, humid climates, with a good amount of hiking in the southern
Appalachian Mountains and I have rarely hiked in below freezing or
snowy conditions yet. I am a lightweight backpacker and buy my gear
accordingly, often splitting various objects and amounts of weight
with my husband.
Field Conditions:

I plan on testing the multi-tool and light on day hikes, car
camping, and overnight backpacking trips in the Georgia and North
Carolina Mountains. The average elevations I will be hiking in will
range from 2000 – 5500 ft (610-1676 m) and late summer/fall weather
will fluctuate wildly with temperatures from the 50's- high 90's F
(10- 32 C) during the day, and maybe as low as 40 F (4 C) at night
up in the higher elevations. Winter weather can host ideal
hypothermia conditions as the temperatures can drop to the 20's F (-
6 C) overnight, and I could see rain, ice, and snow flurries in one
day. We plan on hiking and canoeing or kayaking (I'm working on
convincing my husband that kayaks actually feel more stable than
canoes) when we visit North Florida over the December holidays. A
backpacking trip in the north Georgia mountains is planned for a
couple of days around New Years Eve, and we tend to either car camp
or backpack at least one weekend every month. We need our sleeping
in a stinky tent and eating high calorie food fix at least once a
month.



Test Plan:

I admit freely that I do not need this tool at all, but it looks
really cool and it will impress some of my knife and tool loving
friends. I use a Tikka Petzl and a Leatherman Juice for my light and
multi-tool needs and they work just fine. Could this it replace my
current multi-tool and be a cool light addition to my nights in the
woods?

The Tools: My current tool does not have scissors, how useful would
these be? Will the blade of the knife be long enough for whatever I
need it for? Will the screwdriver heads be compatible with most
things I'd take on the trail? Most important: will the bottle opener
be able to open varying sizes of beer bottles?

The Light: How wide is the beam of light? Will I be able to hike
using the light if I need to (will the beam be wide enough)? How
bright is the light outside and in the tent? Will any of the light
be strong enough or good enough to read in the tent? There are a few
light settings and I'll be interested in testing which setting works
best for activities such as: reading, hiking, general light not
needed for a specific activity such as when I'm eating. What does
the emergency beacon look like and how far can you see it
(especially in the woods)?

Battery Life: What kind of batteries does it use and how long will
those batteries last? Does the setting used make a difference in
battery life?

Ease of Use/Comfort: Is the handle really ergonomically pleasurable
(report will not include photos)? How easy are the tools to use? How
easy are the tools to access in the dark or with gloves? How easy is
the light to use in the dark or with gloves? How easy is the tool to
clean once dirty?

Packability: How heavy is this thing? How well does it fit in my
pack or in my pockets?

Durability: Will the tools rust when in contact with fresh or salt
water? Will the tools become stuck with dirt or sand and not open?
Will the locking system need oiling or maintainance to keep it from
jamming up in the cold? Will the nylon get ripped easily or melt
when in contact with water/sun/whatever?


Tests:

Currently Testing:
Teva Steep XCR Trail Runners in LTR phase (ends November 8)
Cutter Advanced Insect Repellant in LTR phase
Teko Eco Merino Socks in FR phase
GoLite Feather Sleeping Bag in FR phase
Moving Comfort Micro Panty not yet received

Completed Tests:
Lipsmackin' Vegetarian Backpackin' Cookbook
Outdoor Research Celestial Gaiters

Owner Reviews:
Marmot DriClime Windshirt
Ex Officio Bikini Briefs
Montrail Hurricane Ridge XCR

Alex,

Thanks for all your help. I made the changes indicated below and will
upload the review tomorrow.

Thanks again,

mike



On Nov 1, 2005, at 6:56 PM, Alex Tweedly wrote:

> Mike, this is your gentle official edit on the IR - Kershaw Rainbow
> Leek
> Knife - Mike Lipay
>
> A couple of small edits - and a few comments. You got the comments
> partly because this was the first of these reviews I've done, and as I
> say below there is full scope for you to decide whether, or how, to
> respond to them.
>
>
> Mike Lipay wrote:
>
>
>> Initial Report - Kershaw Rainbow Leek Knife
>> by Mike Lipay - October 29, 2005
>>
>> Mfg. Specs from website
>> Model    1660VIB
>> Steel    440A stainless-steel titanium-oxide coated
>> Handle    410 stainless-steel titanium-oxide coated
>> Blade    3 in. (7.6 cm)
>> Closed    4 in. (10.1 cm)
>> Weight    3.1 oz (87.9 g) with soft zipper case
>>
>> Personal measurements
>> Blade    2-7/8 in. (7.3 cm)
>> Closed    4 in. (10.2 cm)
>> Weight    3.5 oz (99.2 g) with soft zipper case / 2.9 oz (82.2 g)
>> without case
>>
>>
>>
>>
> edit: you could get away with integer gram values - a tenth of a
> gram is
> a pretty tiny weight.
>
>
>> Background    I started hiking back in the '60s and have spent most
>> of my life in the outdoors. I prefer to hike solo, or with my kids,
>> but also work as a volunteer trail guide for local clubs, and teach
>> hiking and LNT skills through our local community college. I am, by
>> no means, an ultralight backpacker (my external frame pack weighs in
>> at 29-33 lbs / 13-15 kgs); I prefer primitive to tech (hiking staff
>> to trekking poles, compass to GPS, film to digital, fire to fuel). My
>> backpacking is pretty much limited to weekends, and one full-week per
>> year (usually in the summer), with assorted canoe, caving, and
>> rafting trips to round things out. I spend most of my time hiking the
>> Allegheny Mountains (Pennsylvania and West Virginia) where there are
>> more trails than you could walk in a lifetime, and conditions range
>> from easy to strenuous.
>>
>>
>>
>>
> edit: I didn't need to count to know that is more than 100 words ...
> please trim it down to near 100 words
>
>
>> Delivery    The knife was delivered by UPS in a standard box, wrapped
>> in crushed brown paper as padding. Inside the box was a display box,
>> proudly bearing the U.S. flag, and the words "Made in USA, Printed in
>> USA." For someone interested in purchasing only "Made in the USA"
>> products this is helpful information. The display package measures
>> (my measurements) 6-1/2 x 2-5/8 x 1-1/2 in (16.5 x 6.7 x 3.8 cm) and
>> weighs in at 4.6 oz (130 g).
>>
>>
>>
>>
> edit: preferable to not include that much delivery detail (most
> readers
> wouldn't get their knife via UPS) - so the first sentence could go.
>
>
>> Appearance, Features, and Usage
>>     This is one time when a picture IS work a thousand words.
>>
>>
> Edit: work -> worth
>
>
>>     •    Opening is an extremely easy and safe one-handed operation,
>> for right or left handed people. By holding the knife in my hand,
>> with the back of the knife in my palm, I used my index finger to
>> flick the indexing pin (see photo below). The patented Speed-Safe
>> technology snaps the blade into an open-locked position in a fraction
>> of a second, surprised me the first time I did it. Once opened the
>> blade is securely locked in position.
>>
>>
>>
> comment: this is probably just a result of my complete lack of
> interest
> in, or knowledge of, knives - so you are free to decide that no one
> who
> wanted to read this review would need to ask such dumb questions.
> But I
> think it would help the (very casual) reader if you could say a little
> to explain:
> - what's an indexing pin ?
> - is the "locking mechanism" the same as the "safety lock" (I think
> not
> from the photo, but I'm still not sure)
> - what do you do to release it ?
>
>
>
>>     •    Closing the blade is not quite as safe, and requires some
>> attention. The locking mechanism is located in the front of the knife
>> body and must be moved out of the way. The safest way I found to do
>> this is to hold the knife with the back side in my palm (just as when
>> I opened it), then I used my thumb to move the locking mechanism out
>> of the way. Now, using my other hand, I closed the blade part-way,
>> moved my thumb out of harms way, then finished closing the blade.
>> This is where I felt uncomfortable, if I had closed the blade too
>> quickly there would be a possibility that I could close the blade on
>> my thumb.
>>
>>
>>
> comment: I just can't picture this - maybe because I don't know more
> about what the locking mechanism is like, or what action is needed.
> Just
> as above, I think expanding on this would be helpful - but it may be
> that everyone over the age of 12 in the US would "just know" all
> this :-)
>
> edit: "out of harms way" should be "out of harm's way" (i.e.
> apostrophe)
>
>
>> If nothing
>> else, we will see how good a job this knife does with bandages!
>>
>>
>>
>>
> comment: let's not find that out, please !
>
> --
> Alex Tweedly       http://www.tweedly.net
>
>
>
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Thanks for the information everyone. I figured it must happen now and then but I
just
needed an idea of how often. I will definitely plan more of a buffer into my
future apps.

Anticipating new gear,
Jenny :)

--- In backpackgeartesters@yahoogroups.com, "Roger Caffin" <r.caffin@a...>
wrote:
>
> > Everyone gets stuck with a "delayed" test eventually.  Some of us get
> > lucky and it takes a few years, and for others it's on their FIRST
> > test.
>
> Jennifer: don't think that you are the only one...
> The first Test I was selected (years ago) for was a WM down Flight Jacket. It
never
shipped.
> I was selected (half a year ago) for the Scarpa GTX shoes: mine never shipped.
> I was recently selected for the Bozeman Cocoon: we are still waiting several
months later
> I was recently selected for the Benchmade 530: we are still waiting ...
> I was recently selected for the Gerber Triode: we are still waiting ...
> I was recently selected for the Vermont Darn Tough socks: we are still waiting
...
> In fact, currently I have no active tests!
>
> So, things happen. Just keep applying, and may the gods smile one day :-)
> Don't worry: the Mods know about this, and will take all things into account.
>
> Cheers
> Roger Caffin
> (The Optimist)
>