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  • Category: Outdoors
  • Founded: Feb 14, 2005
  • Language: English
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Messages 59692 - 59721 of 76059   Oldest  |  < Older  |  Newer >  |  Newest
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#59692 From: "bigdawgryan" <bigdawgryan@...>
Date: Sun Oct 4, 2009 4:40 am
Subject: Re: EDIT: IR Asolo Everland GV hiking boots - Christensen
bigdawgryan
Send Email Send Email
 
Carol,

Thanks for the edit. I have posted the file in the appropriate folder and
deleted my file from the TESTS folder.  See you again in two months.

Ryan

#59693 From: Brian Tannehill <tannehillclan@...>
Date: Sun Oct 4, 2009 6:39 am
Subject: Re: Re: edit: FR, M ROck Camera Bag, Brian T
bjcjt
Send Email Send Email
 
> The conversion exception pertains to gear that is offered by US manufacturers
in liter measure. The two instances that spring to mind are bladders (e.g. the
various Platys), and some of MSR's kettles, which are offered in liter measure
as I recall. I don't believe there was a blanket agreement not to convert liquid
measure.
>
> Best,
>
> Ted

Thanks Ted but according to his unofficial documentation on his page
it says"There are a few exceptions: when writing about hydration
systems, we accept that many manufacturers talk about 1 liter or 32 fl
oz containers, and do not require a conversion"

This is a 16 oz water bottle so under that it doesn't need converting.
Now I'm really confused.  I read this as things like this dont need
converting.

Brian

#59694 From: Hollis Easter <easter@...>
Date: Sun Oct 4, 2009 6:51 am
Subject: Re: Liquid measurement (was M Rock Camera Bag)
holliseaster
Send Email Send Email
 
Both of you are right, and it's my fault: this is why the Interim Guide
is unofficial--because it takes the eyes of many people to find clarity.
I'll update the Guide as soon as we find an appropriate new wording. Let
me know if my answer below makes sense.

Ted is correct: we still convert liquid measures.

Brian is correct: I wrote that conversion between 1 liter / 32 fl oz is
not required in container names.

Brian (reasonably) assumes that I was mentioning the 1 liter/ 32 fl oz
thing as an example of a larger category--that I was abolishing all
liquid measure conversions in one cataclysmic sweep. I didn't write it
clearly enough, so I'll fix it.

What I meant to say was this: So many people use 1 liter / 32 fl oz
interchangeably that we didn't see the need to make people write down
_that specific conversion_. We felt that just about everyone on the
planet knows how much liquid fits in a 1 liter bottle (even if it's in
the USA) or a 32 fl oz bladder (even if it's in Austria).

We wanted to make reports easier to read by removing the
seemingly-unnecessary conversion, sort of like how we don't require
things like "the shirt is a bright white (#FFFFFF)".

In any case: my ruling agrees with Ted's. Use standard unit conversions
on all liquid measures; you may omit them when describing containers whose
volume is 32 fl oz (1 liter).

Clear as mud?
Hollis-the-wired-on-coffee-wait-I-didn't-have-coffee-sighh guy



On Sun, Oct 04, 2009 at 12:39:31AM -0600, Brian Tannehill wrote:
>
>
>    > The conversion exception pertains to gear that is offered by US
>    manufacturers in liter measure. The two instances that spring to mind are
>    bladders (e.g. the various Platys), and some of MSR's kettles, which are
>    offered in liter measure as I recall. I don't believe there was a blanket
>    agreement not to convert liquid measure.
>    >
>    > Best,
>    >
>    > Ted
>
>    Thanks Ted but according to his unofficial documentation on his page
>    it says"There are a few exceptions: when writing about hydration
>    systems, we accept that many manufacturers talk about 1 liter or 32 fl
>    oz containers, and do not require a conversion"
>
>    This is a 16 oz water bottle so under that it doesn't need converting.
>    Now I'm really confused. I read this as things like this dont need
>    converting.
>
>    Brian
>
>

#59695 From: "Jenn K. jennksnowy" <jennksnowy@...>
Date: Sun Oct 4, 2009 1:08 pm
Subject: SELECTIONS: Windmill Trekker Lighter
jennbgt
Send Email Send Email
 
Thank you for all the applications for the Windmill Trekker Lighter. Would the
following three lucky testers send me the following information off-line to
jennksnowy@... -  Roger Ault,  Mike Curry, and Kerri Larkin.  The lighter
is shipped without the fuel. Prior to initial use the testers will need to
purchase the fuel and fill the lighter.
 
Name:
Address:
Phone number:
Email:
Non-guaranteed color preference:


Jenn




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

#59696 From: "Jerry Goller" <ChiefModerator@...>
Date: Sun Oct 4, 2009 4:11 pm
Subject: RE: Liquid measurement (was M Rock Camera Bag)
jerrygoller
Send Email Send Email
 
I'd extend that to any water hydration system or water bottle. They are all
in metric, as far as I know. 1 liter, 2 liter, and 3 liter are standard
everywhere.

Jerry


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

-----Original Message-----
From: backpackgeartesters@yahoogroups.com
[mailto:backpackgeartesters@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of Hollis Easter
Sent: Sunday, October 04, 2009 12:52 AM
To: backpackgeartesters@yahoogroups.com
Subject: Re: [backpackgeartesters] Liquid measurement (was M Rock Camera
Bag)

Both of you are right, and it's my fault: this is why the Interim Guide is
unofficial--because it takes the eyes of many people to find clarity.
I'll update the Guide as soon as we find an appropriate new wording. Let me
know if my answer below makes sense.

Ted is correct: we still convert liquid measures.

Brian is correct: I wrote that conversion between 1 liter / 32 fl oz is not
required in container names.

Brian (reasonably) assumes that I was mentioning the 1 liter/ 32 fl oz thing
as an example of a larger category--that I was abolishing all liquid measure
conversions in one cataclysmic sweep. I didn't write it clearly enough, so
I'll fix it.

What I meant to say was this: So many people use 1 liter / 32 fl oz
interchangeably that we didn't see the need to make people write down _that
specific conversion_. We felt that just about everyone on the planet knows
how much liquid fits in a 1 liter bottle (even if it's in the USA) or a 32
fl oz bladder (even if it's in Austria).

We wanted to make reports easier to read by removing the
seemingly-unnecessary conversion, sort of like how we don't require things
like "the shirt is a bright white (#FFFFFF)".

In any case: my ruling agrees with Ted's. Use standard unit conversions on
all liquid measures; you may omit them when describing containers whose
volume is 32 fl oz (1 liter).

Clear as mud?
Hollis-the-wired-on-coffee-wait-I-didn't-have-coffee-sighh guy



On Sun, Oct 04, 2009 at 12:39:31AM -0600, Brian Tannehill wrote:
>
>
>    > The conversion exception pertains to gear that is offered by US
>    manufacturers in liter measure. The two instances that spring to mind
are
>    bladders (e.g. the various Platys), and some of MSR's kettles, which
are
>    offered in liter measure as I recall. I don't believe there was a
blanket
>    agreement not to convert liquid measure.
>    >
>    > Best,
>    >
>    > Ted
>
>    Thanks Ted but according to his unofficial documentation on his page
>    it says"There are a few exceptions: when writing about hydration
>    systems, we accept that many manufacturers talk about 1 liter or 32 fl
>    oz containers, and do not require a conversion"
>
>    This is a 16 oz water bottle so under that it doesn't need converting.
>    Now I'm really confused. I read this as things like this dont need
>    converting.
>
>    Brian
>
>


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#59697 From: "Kathy Waters" <kathy@...>
Date: Sun Oct 4, 2009 5:13 pm
Subject: INFO: Test Complete: Platypus PlatyPreserve
themiddlesis...
Send Email Send Email
 
The Platypus PlatyPreserve test is now complete! You can read the test reports
here: http://teststatus.backpackgeartest.org/link2218.htm or here:
<http://www.backpackgeartest.org/reviews/Hydration Systems/Bottles/Platypus
PlatyPreserve/>

G'day.  I am BridGeT, the BGT Automation Robot working on behalf of the List
Administrator.  I am pleased to note that the above referenced test is now
complete.  Thanks to all who served on this series.  I have placed the Monitor
back into the Monitor pool, cleared the Testers, and notified the Manufacturer. 
I will continue to display this report as completed in the Test Administration
site for seven days.  After that time, I will remove it and the short link
referenced above will no longer work.

Thank you again to all who served to make this test possible.

BridGeT, Administration Automation

#59698 From: "Kathy Waters" <kathy@...>
Date: Sun Oct 4, 2009 5:13 pm
Subject: INFO: Test Complete: Outdoor Research Men's Contour Windshirt
themiddlesis...
Send Email Send Email
 
The Outdoor Research Men's Contour Windshirt test is now complete! You can read
the test reports here: http://teststatus.backpackgeartest.org/link2207.htm or
here: <http://www.backpackgeartest.org/reviews/Clothing/Jackets/Outdoor Research
Mens Contour Windshirt/>

G'day.  I am BridGeT, the BGT Automation Robot working on behalf of the List
Administrator.  I am pleased to note that the above referenced test is now
complete.  Thanks to all who served on this series.  I have placed the Monitor
back into the Monitor pool, cleared the Testers, and notified the Manufacturer. 
I will continue to display this report as completed in the Test Administration
site for seven days.  After that time, I will remove it and the short link
referenced above will no longer work.

Thank you again to all who served to make this test possible.

BridGeT, Administration Automation

#59699 From: "Kathy Waters" <kathy@...>
Date: Sun Oct 4, 2009 5:15 pm
Subject: ADMIN: Test Administration Pages Updated - 04 October 2009
themiddlesis...
Send Email Send Email
 
G'day.  I am BridGeT, the BGT Automation Robot working on behalf of the List
Administrator.  This is to inform you that I have updated the BGT Test Status
site.  The BGT Test Status Site is: http://teststatus.backpackgeartest.org/

You should also check the individual Administration pages for Administration
Messages.
TESTER ADMINISTRATION: http://teststatus.backpackgeartest.org/ADMIN5.htm
MONITOR ADMINISTRATION: http://teststatus.backpackgeartest.org/ADMIN4.htm

Please notify the List Administrator of any error in the data I have reported.

I performed the following output tasks in 50.11 seconds.

304 HTML pages created.  Inlcuding:

64 Manufacturer detail pages.
91 Tester detail pages.
41 Monitor detail pages.
25 Moderator detail pages.
73 Short links for report.
Several one-shot administration pages are not included in my log counts.

7 Monitors were assigned to tests.
2 Manufacturers were notified of test progress.
80 Tester Status emails were sent.
1 Tester Reminder emails were sent.
32 Monitor Status emails were sent.
2 Monitor Test Completion emails were sent.
2 Test Completion emails were sent to the list.

Enjoy!

BridGeT, List Administration Automation

#59700 From: "asklarry99" <asklarry98@...>
Date: Sun Oct 4, 2009 9:30 pm
Subject: POST: IR - Rite in the Rain Outdoor Journal - askLarry
asklarry99
Send Email Send Email
 
Hi Derek-

Attached is the text for my IR for the Rite in the Rain Journal.
Html is located at...http://tinyurl.com/yaujvps
Enjoy!

-larry


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

Rite in the Rain All-Weather Outdoor Journal

TEST SERIES BY LARRY KIRSCHNER

INITIAL REPORT - October 4, 2009

TESTER INFORMATION

NAME:  Larry Kirschner
EMAIL:  asklarry98 at hotmail dot com
AGE:  45
LOCATION:  Columbus, OH
GENDER:  M
HEIGHT:  5' 9" (1.75 m)
WEIGHT:  205 lb (92 kg)


I've been an intermittent camper/paddler since my teens, but now that my kids
are avid Boy Scouts, I've caught the backpacking bug. I typically do 8-10
weekend hikes per year, and have spent time over the past few years backpacking
the Philmont Scout Ranch in New Mexico and canoeing the Atikaki wilderness of
Canada. I like to travel "in comfort", but I've shrunk to medium weight, and
continue to work toward going lighter and longer. With all of my investment into
these ventures, I expect my wife and I will continue to trek long after the kids
are gone…

----

INITIAL REPORT
October 4, 2009

PRODUCT INFORMATION & SPECIFICATIONS

Manufacturer: J. L. Darling Corporation
Year of Manufacture: 2009
Country of manufacture: USA
Manufacturer's Website: www.riteintherain.com
MSRP: $9.95 USD

Listed Weight: 0.2 lb (3.2 oz, 90 g)
Measured weight: 0.23 lb/3.7 oz (104.4 g)

Dimensions:
Page size listed: 4 5/8 x 7 in (117 x 178 mm)
Page size measured: 4 5/8 x 7 in (117 x 178 mm)
Journal size measured: 4 7/8 x 7 in (124 x 178 mm)


ITEM DESCRIPTION

The Rite in the Rain product line is a line of notebooks and journals of varying
sizes designed for the outdoor enthusiast or for others that may need a
weatherproof writing surface In other words, "Outdoor writing products…for
outdoor writing people," as written on the back cover. All of these products use
"Rite in the Rain All-weather writing paper" to provide a weatherproof writing
surface. The pages in this notebook are 4 5/8 x 7 in (117 x 178 mm), although
both larger and smaller sizes are available. The paper is definitely heavier
than regular notebook paper, and has a slightly waxy feel. The pages are spiral
bound with a plastic cover to protect the sheets from damage. The Outdoor
Journal line is distinguished by a yellow plastic cover with a picture of a
backpacker on it. Other products in the line have different color covers with
different pictures.

On the first page of paper are spaces to write my name, address, and phone
number, as well as a few lines of space marked as "project".



On the back side of the first sheet is a page labeled "contents", which is where
I would put my table of contents if I were inclined to annotate my journal
entries.



After that, all of the pages are the same, with heavy horizontal lines and
lighter, dashed vertical lines which I could use for making graphs, maps, and so
on. This format can be seen on the right side page of the photo above. At the
bottom of each page is a blank space where I could indicate the scale of each
square. More likely, I would just use these blanks to number the pages. All in
all, there are 32 pages in the notebook, including the page with the identifying
information and table of contents.

No instructions were included with this journal, although I don't think any are
necessary. On the back cover of the journal, it says the following: "For best
results, use a pencil or an all-weather pen."




TRYING IT OUT

Before taking this out on the trail, I wanted to see what types of writing
utensils will work with this special paper. First, I tried, a Rite in the Rain
All-Weather Pen, which worked quite well. Next, I tried a pencil, which also did
fine. A regular pen wrote nicely on the paper, as did colored pencils (in case I
want to do any sketching) and crayons. As everything seems to write easily on
the pages of this journal, I will not worry about the need for specialized
writing equipment.




EXPECTATIONS and INITIAL IMPRESSIONS

I was hoping for a journal that will not only survive the rigors of the field,
but will also allow me to keep and record my thoughts. So far, I am impressed
with the journal, since I can write on the pages just like normal paper. I will
see how both the pages and the writing hold up as I take it out in the field.


THE STORY SO FAR

Impressive
A journal that will withstand backpacking with no special care? A great idea!
Any writing instrument will do
Concerns
None--I can't wait to start testing
This concludes my Initial Report on the Rite in the Rain Outdoor Journal. Please
check back in 2 months for my Field Report on this item. Thanks to JL Darling
for providing this journal for testing, and to BackpackGearTest.org for giving
me the chance to participate in the evaluation process.

#59701 From: "Edward" <erd@...>
Date: Sun Oct 4, 2009 11:30 pm
Subject: Re: Liquid measurement (was M Rock Camera Bag)
edwardripley...
Send Email Send Email
 
BTW, Hollis, it's always been my take that we don't convert in this instance in
part because one L=1 qt as close as dammit. You are, of course, correct about 32
fl oz but I don't think in that unit, perhaps because I cook a lot and cups and
quarts are standard measure (if measuring).

Good to get this one squared away. Thanks.

Ted

--- In backpackgeartesters@yahoogroups.com, Hollis Easter <easter@...> wrote:
>
> Both of you are right, and it's my fault: this is why the Interim Guide
> is unofficial--because it takes the eyes of many people to find clarity.
> I'll update the Guide as soon as we find an appropriate new wording. Let
> me know if my answer below makes sense.
>
> Ted is correct: we still convert liquid measures.
>
> Brian is correct: I wrote that conversion between 1 liter / 32 fl oz is
> not required in container names.
>
> Brian (reasonably) assumes that I was mentioning the 1 liter/ 32 fl oz
> thing as an example of a larger category--that I was abolishing all
> liquid measure conversions in one cataclysmic sweep. I didn't write it
> clearly enough, so I'll fix it.
>
> What I meant to say was this: So many people use 1 liter / 32 fl oz
> interchangeably that we didn't see the need to make people write down
> _that specific conversion_. We felt that just about everyone on the
> planet knows how much liquid fits in a 1 liter bottle (even if it's in
> the USA) or a 32 fl oz bladder (even if it's in Austria).
>
> We wanted to make reports easier to read by removing the
> seemingly-unnecessary conversion, sort of like how we don't require
> things like "the shirt is a bright white (#FFFFFF)".
>
> In any case: my ruling agrees with Ted's. Use standard unit conversions
> on all liquid measures; you may omit them when describing containers whose
> volume is 32 fl oz (1 liter).
>
> Clear as mud?
> Hollis-the-wired-on-coffee-wait-I-didn't-have-coffee-sighh guy
>
>
>
> On Sun, Oct 04, 2009 at 12:39:31AM -0600, Brian Tannehill wrote:
> >
> >
> >    > The conversion exception pertains to gear that is offered by US
> >    manufacturers in liter measure. The two instances that spring to mind are
> >    bladders (e.g. the various Platys), and some of MSR's kettles, which are
> >    offered in liter measure as I recall. I don't believe there was a blanket
> >    agreement not to convert liquid measure.
> >    >
> >    > Best,
> >    >
> >    > Ted
> >
> >    Thanks Ted but according to his unofficial documentation on his page
> >    it says"There are a few exceptions: when writing about hydration
> >    systems, we accept that many manufacturers talk about 1 liter or 32 fl
> >    oz containers, and do not require a conversion"
> >
> >    This is a 16 oz water bottle so under that it doesn't need converting.
> >    Now I'm really confused. I read this as things like this dont need
> >    converting.
> >
> >    Brian
> >
> >
>

#59702 From: "Ralph" <rdassetts@...>
Date: Mon Oct 5, 2009 1:07 am
Subject: Re: EDIT - IR - Princeton Tec Remix Headlamp - JAMIE L
ralph_ditton
Send Email Send Email
 
Hello Jamie,
Here are your few edits.
You know the drill.
Delete the copy in the test folder when done.
It is a well set out report. Love the colour difference of the table.

Ralph
>
> Princeton Tec state that the Remix is water resistant and is powered by 3 AAA
alkeline batteries (supplied). The Remix is black in colour with an adjustable
wide elastic band which is easily removed from the headlamp unit. The top of the
Remix features a large grey button whch is used to power on or off the headlamp
as well as cycle >
> I actually have 3 other headlamps (maybe I have a gear addiction??!) and my
first thoughts were that the Remix is quite chunky and heavy. Having said this,
after playing around with the Remix for about 10 minutes after removing it from
the packet, I decided that it isn't that bad, but it is slightly larger than my
other 3 LED lamp.
# EDIT: other 3 LED lamp(s).

I am certainly not (concerns) about the tilt moving when I don't want it to.
# EDIT: concerned
> Summary

I have 2 simple initial concers. First is the colour black. This may (proove)
the Remix hard to locate in my dark tent or at the bottom of
# EDIT: prove

increased vision. This (wont) be an option with the Remix.
#EDIT: won't

#59703 From: "Ralph Ditton" <rdassetts@...>
Date: Mon Oct 5, 2009 4:23 am
Subject: LTR-MSR Quick 1- Ralph Ditton
ralph_ditton
Send Email Send Email
 
Hello Kathryn,
Here is my final installment for your edits.

Copy in test folder.
http://tinyurl.com/yd3sk3c

Best
Ralph

Long Term Report
Date: 5th October, 2009
During this phase I used the Quick 1 for five days whilst doing the Cape
to Cape Walk, a distance of 135 km (84 mi).

In the mornings I just boiled water for either, soup or a cup of tea and
I used the insulated mug as my drinking vessel.

Use during the evenings consisted of giving my dehydrated food a good
pre-soak in the pot for well over two hours and then heating it up on
the stove.
I would then eat from the pot, clean it up and then boil water for
either a soup or a cup of tea to wash dinner down.

When I first set the pot up in preparation for cooking, it immediately
drew the attention of the other members of our walking group.
They all lifted it, turned it over, bounced it up and down in their
hands to feel the weight.
The main question they asked "Does it come any smaller?"

I found that the size of the Quick 1 was very good for a 2 person serve
of packaged dehydrated food, but was far too big for a 1 person serve.

                                          pre soaking a dehydrated meal
                                                                 pre
soaking a dehydrated meal

We all carried our own cooking gear and a smaller pot say a three cup,
for a 1 person serve would have been ideal with regards to packing away
in a backpack. The mug would have to be a tad smaller to fit inside the pot.

They were disappointed that the lid was aluminium in lieu of titanium
from a weight perspective.

The other factor to come out of the discussion was the method of
clipping the handle over the lids knob. They all expressed a concern
that over time the handle would wear away at the knob making it
ineffective in locking the handle and lid into place as the handle would
have no grip on the knob.

As I used a stove with a small radius of 104 mm (4 in) to cut down on
weight I found that the pot support arms of the stove did not fit inside
the recess on the base of the pot.
Two arms would sit inside the recess with the third arm some 17 mm (0.7
in) outside it on the higher outer circumference.
This caused the pot to sit at a slight angle on the stove.

With a small burner head on the stove, I found that I had to constantly
stir the food whilst cooking, otherwise I ended up with a burnt bottom
in the pot.

Removing the burnt bottom with my titanium spoon when cleaning up I
collected lots of scratches on the bottom and some tarnishing.

                                           scratches and tarnishing

      scratches and tarnishing

Due to the cool inclement weather on this trip, I found that the
insulated mug kept my soup or tea warm. Frequently I had to leave my
meal and drink to attend to a matter of housekeeping at camp such as re
tensioning my guy lines, forgetting an implement/item which meant
rummaging through my backpack which all took minutes to accomplish. In
addition the cap kept the rain out.

Summary
Overall I am very happy with the pot and mug. They will become an
integral part of my camping equipment.
The aspects that the manufacturer should look at are the following:
a) Do away with the recess on the bottom to cater for a range of stove
support arm diameters.
b) Consider a smaller pot for one person, say a three cup pot.
c) Be consistent and have the lid made out of titanium also to reduce
weight.

This report concludes the series of reports and I thank MSR for making
this product available.

#59704 From: "Coy Boy" <starnescr@...>
Date: Mon Oct 5, 2009 4:43 am
Subject: Application - Hennessey Deep Jungle hammock - Coy Starnes
starnescr
Send Email Send Email
 
Application - Hennessey Deep Jungle hammock - Coy Starnes

I will need the long version.  I am only 6 ft tall but the weight limit on the
other version is 200# and I am afraid I exceed that by quite a bit.  But to be
honest, I have found that a slightly longer hammock is more comfortable.  I
experimented with severl homemade ones and the longer ones were just more
comfortable.

Applicant: Coy Starnes
Gender: Male
Age: 47
Weight 236 lb. (107 kg.)
Height 6 ft. (1.83 m.)
E-Mail: starnescr@... (starnescr at yahoo dot com)
Location: Northeast Alabama (Grant)

I have read the latest version (v. 0609) of the Survival Guide, especially
chapters 4, 5, and 6 and I agree to abide by all rules and requirements set
forth. My signed Tester Agreement is on file with BGT. I will meet the minimum
nights required (5).

Brief Bio: I am an avid outdoorsman and enjoy hiking, backpacking, hunting,
canoeing/kayaking, caving, and spending as much time outdoors as possible. I
live in northeast Alabama where I do most of my backpacking and hiking. I hike
solo and with friends and family. I go hiking throughout the year.

My style is slow and steady. My shelter of choice is a hammock and I cook with
an alcohol stove or wood stove.  I do use a tent occasionally and or stay in
shelters when available.  I have made great strides in becoming a lightweight
backpacker but I still choose gear with an eye towards comfort and durability.
My pack weight is around 25 lb (11 kg) for most summer 2 and 3 day trips.
However, in the winter my pack weight climbs considerably, not only in weight
but in bulk as well.

I keeping with the new short and sweet application which I campaigned for, here
is my app.


Application: Hello Ryan, I would be pleased to help BGT in testing the Deep
Jungle hammock.  I have been a big fan of hammocks for a long time now and
Hennessey Hammocks was a big part in my transition from tents to hammocks.  I
still have and use the Origional (the only modlel offered at the time) I bought
some 7 or 8 years ago.  I have recently used a more open homemade hammock in the
winter but the new Deep Jungle might be a good alternative if I understand the
new hammock's design.  I consider myself an experienced hammock camper and have
managed to use one in almost all conditions, including rain and snow.  Sub
freezing temps are not to be taken lightly in a hammock but I have managed at a
low of 11 F.

I finally got the docx to open on the wifes laptop and it sounds like this
hammock has a double bottom.  Perhaps it is designed to keep gear up off the wet
ground which would be practical in the deep jungle...but also designed for use
in winter with some insulation in between the layers?  I know that would be my
intention.  I will try severl types of insulation, from solid foam pads to a
down sleeping bag used just as insulation under me (in the gap between layers). 
I also noticed it said it has a zippered opening.  I really like this idea. Im
not sure if it meant the bottom opening or a zippered opening in the netting (I
read it 2 days ago and I am just now getting a chance to write my app) but I
will report on this zipper regardless of its location.

I will use the Deep Jungle on several hiking trips but I also just ordered a
rack and panniers for my recumbent and and plan on doing some short touring this
winter.  I also plan to do some kayak and or canoe camping.  In other words, the
Deep Jungle should see plenty of use.  I will note that I am in the LTR phase of
testing a 3 man tent but this test is due Nov 17. There will possible be a
sligtht overlap in the arrival of the hammock and the end of the tent test but I
will have no problem getting that test finished and still have ample
oppertunities to use the Deep Jungle hammock.

Test Locations and Conditions
I usually hike in the southeast (Al, Tenn, Ga and NC) and my bent riding has so
far been in northeast Al and northwest Ga.  Temps are not usually severe and I
actually rode a lot in Dec, Jan and Feb this past winter.  This test should
begin in the spring and run through most of the summer.  Spring time is usually
very nice but summers can be very hot with high humidity.    If the test goes
into the fall the weather is usually hot early on then crisp and cool.

I just recently picked up a kayak (2 actually) and have already went on several
group paddles as well as sevaral solo trips including one camping trip and plan
to do more.  With high gas prices I have had to limit my trips to those close by
but fortunately I have several good hiking and camping opportunities close by. 
I can actually go hiking and biking (and often do) without even have to crank
the truck and with the kayak I can be on the water with less then 3 miles
driving.

My test load is fairly low for now, 3 (all in LTR phase) and still waiting on
some socks (which would go nicely with this test)

1: The Packa:  In LTR phase

2: OR Bugbucket hat: in LTR phase

3: Fuerka Grand Manan tent: also in LTR phase

4: Thorlo Experia socks: still waiting on these to arrive.

I just applied to test the Merrell Outbound mid boot.

All my reviews may be found here.

http://www.backpackgeartest.org/tester_reviews/Coy%20Boy

I have also submitted six owner reviews:
Two for my Hennessy Original hammock
Petzl Tikka Head Lamp
Raovac Sportsman 3 in 1 headlamp
REI Down Time 0 Degree sleeping bag
Sony P72 camera

Thanks for the considering me for this test.

Coy Boy

#59705 From: "cdaignault" <chari.daignault@...>
Date: Mon Oct 5, 2009 11:58 am
Subject: Re: Video in reports
cdaignault
Send Email Send Email
 
Just FYI -- I know there is a lot of support for using YouTube for this. Aside
from the fact that I believe Jerry said it will be a requirement to host the
videos on BGT's site, YouTube is blocked by a lot of locations at the firewall.

I can't say for sure how many folks are surfing the web and reading BGT while at
work, however, I'm pretty sure it's quite a few. If YouTube is blocked, it's a
put-off for those attempting to read our newly video-enhanced reports [if we use
YouTube].

I am not able to view YouTube videos at work. I do a lot of my report-writing
and editing from work [during breaks and lunchtime] because when I'm home, I'm
off in the woods without a wire. Using YouTube would cause several issues for me
with regard to writing and editing video-enhanced reports.

I like Derek's suggestions for an app to create/serve the videos and I would
prefer them to be hosted on BGT's site [since we have unlimited bandwidth and
storage].

That's my 2.5 cents. :)

-- Chari [who can now breathe out of at least one nostril]



--- In backpackgeartesters@yahoogroups.com, "Andrew Buskov" <rescue@...> wrote:
>
> My understanding of the way that youtube works is this.... people upload
> videos, and a script runs every few minutes that converts those videos to
> the proper format. If we're hosting on a linux server and have the ability
> to run programs, then we can essentially create the same style service as
> youtube without too much effort. The problem would be setting up the script
> to convert all the possibilities of filetypes that people upload.
>
> AB
>
> > I don't want it to *be* YouTube, I just want it to function like
> > YouTube.
> > All videos have to be stored on our site. We need to decide on a format
> > because I only want one. I'd rather the readers not have to download a
> > viewer, thus my description of *like* YouTube.
> >
> > Jerry
>

#59706 From: "cdaignault" <chari.daignault@...>
Date: Mon Oct 5, 2009 12:10 pm
Subject: ARRIVED - Guyot Designs - Squishy Dog Bowls
cdaignault
Send Email Send Email
 
Mine is a nice blue color! IR to follow soon.

-- Chari

#59707 From: "cdaignault" <chari.daignault@...>
Date: Mon Oct 5, 2009 12:11 pm
Subject: ARRIVED: GoGirl - GoGirl
cdaignault
Send Email Send Email
 
It arrived via USPS on Saturday. IR to follow!

-- Chari

#59708 From: Chari Daignault <chari.daignault@...>
Date: Mon Oct 5, 2009 12:04 pm
Subject: BIP - Daignault
cdaignault
Send Email Send Email
 
I'm feeling much better; will feel a lot better once all the antibiotics are
cleared out of my system. Blech.

Ryan, thank you so, so much for picking up after me and editing David's Keen
Obsidian FR. I really appreciate it!

---------------------------------------
Chari Daignault
chari.daignault@...

"Not all who wander are lost"
"If idiots could fly, we'd never see the sun"

Please support me in the Race for the Cure
http://tinyurl.com/m8y92p


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

#59709 From: "gdm320" <gdm320@...>
Date: Mon Oct 5, 2009 2:07 pm
Subject: Re: Video in reports
gdm320
Send Email Send Email
 
I'm not able to view BackpackGearTest.org at work. In fact, my work's internet
filters only allow a text-only version of news.yahoo.com. The strictness of some
companies and their internet filters cannot be the deciding factor in which
service we use.

Greg M

--- In backpackgeartesters@yahoogroups.com, "cdaignault" <chari.daignault@...>
wrote:
>
> Just FYI -- I know there is a lot of support for using YouTube for this. Aside
from the fact that I believe Jerry said it will be a requirement to host the
videos on BGT's site, YouTube is blocked by a lot of locations at the firewall.
>
> I can't say for sure how many folks are surfing the web and reading BGT while
at work, however, I'm pretty sure it's quite a few. If YouTube is blocked, it's
a put-off for those attempting to read our newly video-enhanced reports [if we
use YouTube].
>
> I am not able to view YouTube videos at work. I do a lot of my report-writing
and editing from work [during breaks and lunchtime] because when I'm home, I'm
off in the woods without a wire. Using YouTube would cause several issues for me
with regard to writing and editing video-enhanced reports.

#59710 From: Brian Hartman <bhart1426@...>
Date: Mon Oct 5, 2009 2:28 pm
Subject: Arrived - Teva Riva Shoes - Brian Hartman
bhart1426
Send Email Send Email
 
My Teva Riva shoes have arrived.  IR to follow shortly.

Thanks,
Brian





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

#59711 From: "cdaignault" <chari.daignault@...>
Date: Mon Oct 5, 2009 3:35 pm
Subject: Re: Video in reports
cdaignault
Send Email Send Email
 
Wow, your company goes quite overboard, Greg.

However, I think you've just proved my point. YouTube and most video-streaming
sites are blocked by most companies that employ firewalls. We *do* need to keep
things like that in mind when determining ways in which to provide more content
for our readers.

-- Chari


--- In backpackgeartesters@yahoogroups.com, "gdm320" <gdm320@...> wrote:
>
> I'm not able to view BackpackGearTest.org at work. In fact, my work's internet
filters only allow a text-only version of news.yahoo.com. The strictness of some
companies and their internet filters cannot be the deciding factor in which
service we use.
>
> Greg M
>
> --- In backpackgeartesters@yahoogroups.com, "cdaignault" <chari.daignault@>
wrote:
> >
> > Just FYI -- I know there is a lot of support for using YouTube for this.
Aside from the fact that I believe Jerry said it will be a requirement to host
the videos on BGT's site, YouTube is blocked by a lot of locations at the
firewall.
> >
> > I can't say for sure how many folks are surfing the web and reading BGT
while at work, however, I'm pretty sure it's quite a few. If YouTube is blocked,
it's a put-off for those attempting to read our newly video-enhanced reports [if
we use YouTube].
> >
> > I am not able to view YouTube videos at work. I do a lot of my
report-writing and editing from work [during breaks and lunchtime] because when
I'm home, I'm off in the woods without a wire. Using YouTube would cause several
issues for me with regard to writing and editing video-enhanced reports.
>

#59712 From: "tcallahanbgt" <tcallahanbgt@...>
Date: Mon Oct 5, 2009 3:41 pm
Subject: EDIT - LTR - Platypus CleanStream Gravity Filter - Nancy Griffith
tcallahanbgt
Send Email Send Email
 
Hi Nancy,
Fine report, you certainly tested this filter in variety of locales. Here are
your edits:

> I again repeated my kitchen time trials for filtering 4L of water at the end
of this test period.  The results of the time trial were:
> 1st filtering of 4L tap water: 9 minutes 37 seconds
> Backflush (of all 4 L): 3 minutes 32 seconds
> Re-filtering of same 4 L: 4 minutes 2 seconds

Edit: Would be good if you could add a sentence that helps make a comparison to
the time trials you did back in you IR. This will help tie together the thorough
time trial testing that you did. Maybe something along the lines of,
"This is quite a bit longer than filtering time I measured during my Initial
Report, (2 minutes 48 seconds to 2 minutes 28 seconds)."


> The top seal closure continues to be difficult to close. 
EDIT: After "closure", please insert "of the clean reservoir". This will help
ensure the reader knows which bladder you are referring to as they begin to read
the paragraph.

#59713 From: "Heather" <alekto@...>
Date: Mon Oct 5, 2009 3:58 pm
Subject: edit: IR - Jetboil FLASH stove - Richard Lyon
alekto
Send Email Send Email
 
Richard,

Thanks for the report! Well written and your html looks fine. I look forward to
reading the rest of the test series since you are a jetboil fan already. No
edits

Thanks!
heather

#59714 From: "gdm320" <gdm320@...>
Date: Mon Oct 5, 2009 4:24 pm
Subject: Re: Video in reports
gdm320
Send Email Send Email
 
I don't think it's logical to assume that most readers browse our reviews while
they're at the office. I'd wager that most people do so from a "home" location
with unrestricted access.

Greg M

--- In backpackgeartesters@yahoogroups.com, "cdaignault" <chari.daignault@...>
wrote:
>
> Wow, your company goes quite overboard, Greg.
>
> However, I think you've just proved my point. YouTube and most video-streaming
sites are blocked by most companies that employ firewalls. We *do* need to keep
things like that in mind when determining ways in which to provide more content
for our readers.
>
> -- Chari

#59715 From: "Jerry Goller" <ChiefModerator@...>
Date: Mon Oct 5, 2009 4:50 pm
Subject: RE: Re: Video in reports
jerrygoller
Send Email Send Email
 
That really doesn't matter. YouTube just doesn't meet our requirements.

Jerry


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

-----Original Message-----
From: backpackgeartesters@yahoogroups.com
[mailto:backpackgeartesters@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of gdm320
Sent: Monday, October 05, 2009 10:24 AM
To: backpackgeartesters@yahoogroups.com
Subject: [backpackgeartesters] Re: Video in reports

I don't think it's logical to assume that most readers browse our reviews
while they're at the office. I'd wager that most people do so from a "home"
location with unrestricted access.

Greg M

--- In backpackgeartesters@yahoogroups.com, "cdaignault"
<chari.daignault@...> wrote:
>
> Wow, your company goes quite overboard, Greg.
>
> However, I think you've just proved my point. YouTube and most
video-streaming sites are blocked by most companies that employ firewalls.
We *do* need to keep things like that in mind when determining ways in which
to provide more content for our readers.
>
> -- Chari



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#59716 From: "Ray" <rayestrella@...>
Date: Mon Oct 5, 2009 8:46 pm
Subject: Arrived - Asolo Everland boots - Ray
rayestrella1
Send Email Send Email
 
The boots are here. IR soon as possible,

Ray

#59717 From: Derek Hansen <derek.hansen@...>
Date: Mon Oct 5, 2009 8:29 pm
Subject: EDIT - IR - Rite in the Rain Outdoor Journal - askLarry
dejoha
Send Email Send Email
 
Larry,

Great report and nice, clear photos. Here are my edits in typical
fashion:

EDIT: Must
Edit: Consider
Comment: Muse

~derek

# # #

  > Philmont Scout Ranch in New Mexico
Comment: I LOVE Philmont and can't wait to get back. Are you planning
to go for the Centennial? I went as a boy for the 75th and I hope to
get there for the 100th.


  > Listed Weight: 0.2 lb (3.2 oz, 90 g)
  > Measured weight: 0.23 lb/3.7 oz (104.4 g)
EDIT: A bit of confusion here with the parenthesis, slashes, and
double English measurements. Since the weight us under a pound, just
ounces will do:

3.2 oz (90 g)
3.7 oz (104.4 g)


  > writing surface In other words,
EDIT: missing period after "surface"


  > yellow plastic cover with a picture
Comment: The yellow cover made me think this is a great product to use
during the hunting season...


  > All-Weather
Edit: In other places, you use "All-weather" with a lowercase "w" -- I
would make all instances consistent.


  > need for specialized writing
EDIT: for a specialized

#59718 From: "richardglyon" <rlyon@...>
Date: Mon Oct 5, 2009 10:04 pm
Subject: Re: edit: IR - Jetboil FLASH stove - Richard Lyon
richardglyon
Send Email Send Email
 
Heather,

Thanks. I caught an Edit: the picture on the packed up stove doesn't have the
cup on the bottom. I'm going to swap it out for one that does. Cheers, Richard

--- In backpackgeartesters@yahoogroups.com, "Heather" <alekto@...> wrote:
>
> Richard,
>
> Thanks for the report! Well written and your html looks fine. I look forward
to reading the rest of the test series since you are a jetboil fan already. No
edits
>
> Thanks!
> heather
>

#59719 From: "richardglyon" <rlyon@...>
Date: Mon Oct 5, 2009 10:24 pm
Subject: Reminder - Merrell Outbound boots Test Call
richardglyon
Send Email Send Email
 
A bit over 48 hours to go and only one application (thanks, Coy) for these
bushwhacking boots. C'mon team.

Here's your chance to get a boot made just for your style of hiking. Merrell nd
BackpackGearTest.org offer three lucky testers the chance to try out the
Outbound Mid, one of whose features is called "Bushwhacker Spring Motion." Read
about them at

Men:
http://www.merrell.com/US/en-us/ViewProduct.mvc.aspx/17926M/0/Mens/Outbound-Mid-\
\
GORE-TEX?galleryId=M-F

Women:
http://www.merrell.com/US/en-us/ViewProduct.mvc.aspx/17926W/0/Womens/Outbound-Mi\
\
d-GORE-TEX?galleryId=W-F

Details: TV is the mod, Newbie Rule DOES apply, US shipping included (others may
apply if willing to reimburse trans-shipping costs), include "Merrell Outbound
Mid" in your concise, abridged application, test call closes Wednesday, October
7, at midnight PDT (GMT-7).

#59720 From: "gdm320" <gdm320@...>
Date: Mon Oct 5, 2009 10:30 pm
Subject: Re: Video in reports
gdm320
Send Email Send Email
 
Okay, so at this point we need to figure out a particular format. How would that
be accomplished? I'm assuming that different cameras and recording equipment
will record in different formats, so is there a way to convert all of these
different video formats into the "standard" we are looking for?

Greg M

--- In backpackgeartesters@yahoogroups.com, "Jerry Goller" <ChiefModerator@...>
wrote:
>
> That really doesn't matter. YouTube just doesn't meet our requirements.
>
> Jerry

#59721 From: "Ray" <rayestrella@...>
Date: Mon Oct 5, 2009 10:36 pm
Subject: IR - Asolo Everland boots - Ray Estrella
rayestrella1
Send Email Send Email
 
Hello Carol,

Here is my IR for the Everland boots. The HTML may be found here:

http://tinyurl.com/y9kgj78

Thanks,

Ray


Asolo Everland GV Boots
Test Series by Raymond Estrella

INITIAL REPORT

INITIAL REPORT - October 05, 2009

TESTER INFORMATION

NAME:  Raymond Estrella
EMAIL:  rayestrellaAThotmailDOTcom
AGE:  49
LOCATION:  Orange County, California, USA
GENDER:  M
HEIGHT:  6' 3" (1.91 m)
WEIGHT:  210 lb (95.30 kg)
I have been backpacking for over 30 years, all over California, plus many
western states and Minnesota. I hike year-round in all weather, and average 500+
miles (800+ km) per year. I make a point of using lightweight gear, and smaller
volume packs. Doubting I can ever be truly UL, I try to be as near to it as I
can yet still be comfortable. I start early and hike hard so as to enjoy the
afternoons exploring/chilling. I usually take a freestanding tent and enjoy hot
meals at night. If not hiking solo I am usually with brother-in-law Dave.

INITIAL REPORT
The Product

Manufacturer: Asolo
Web site: www.asolo.com
Product: Everland GV
Year manufactured: 2009
MSRP: N/A
Size: Men's 11 (US)
Sizes available: Men's 6 to 13.5 in half sizes (UK)
Weight listed per boot (size 8 UK): 16.6 oz (470 g)
Actual weight of test boot 18.5 oz (525 g)
Color reviewed: Cendre/Major Brown, also available in Anthracite/Gunmetal and
Graphite/Gunmetal


Product Description

The Asolo Everland GV boots (hereafter called the Everlands or the boots) are a
light weight hiking boot, the beefiest of the company's Freeland line of boots.
It should be noted that in Italy where these are made "hiking" refers to what we
would call trail walking or light day-hiking, not backpacking like many of us in
the US think of it. Even though it is aimed at this market my pack weights are
such that I will use this for both day-hiking and full-on multi-day backpacking
trips.

The Everland is a mid-height boot. In actuality they are more like a high-top
trail-runner than any mid that I have owned. They stand 6 in (15 cm) high at the
front or tongue area. The dark brown and tan areas of the boots are made of
water-resistant suede leather, while the light brown areas are polyester. To
make the Everlands truly waterproof a Gore-Tex lining has been included. A very
small bit of rubber, and a bigger section of rubberized fabric protects the very
front of the toe area.


The tongue is gusseted to help keep water and debris out of the boots, but only
protects from water entering to within an inch (2.5 cm) of the top of the ankle
cuff. A nylon loop on the upper center section of the tongue holds the laces in
the center of the tongue to keep it from sliding sideways into the boot.

The flat nylon laces run through eight pairs of eyes. There are no speed hooks
or locking rings. This is back to basics lacing.


The soles are from Asolo and Vibram and are called Syntex. They are attached to
the boot with adhesive rather than a stitched welt construction. The soles are
quite thin. The deepest lug is 0.25 in (0.64 cm) at the heel.

Inside of the boots are some very thin insoles that along with the foot bed
underneath them are what the company calls the Vario Asoflex system. It is made
of three different materials.

The midsole is made up of two types of EVA, a full firm midsole and an added
softer area at the heel to give some shock absorption. The insoles are just thin
foam.


This concludes my Initial Report. I will be getting these outside for some major
backpacking shortly. Won't you please come back in two months to see how they do
in the field?

My thanks to Asolo and BackpackGearTest.org for the chance to put them to the
test.

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