Thanks James,

I have made the changes. I am still trying to figure out why the HTML code gets
changed when I upload. If I can't figure it out (I have posted a question to the
BGTFileUpload Group. Maybe someone over their can steer me in the right
direction.

The font issues you described are one of the things that gets changed upon
upload.

Thanks so much,
Bob



On Oct 3, 2011, at 9:05 AM, jetriple@... wrote:

> Bob Sanders <rscreative@...> wrote on 10/02/2011 04:33:59 PM:
>
> > Hi James,
> >
> > Here is my Initial Report for the ExOfficio Logic Jacket. My
> > apologizies for being a couple days late.
> >
> > I have uploaded the HTML into the test folder and here is the link.
> > http://tinyurl.com/694uejl
> >
>
> Hi Bob. Thank you for your ExOfficio Storm Jacket Initial Report. Sorry
> to hear you are having troubles with the layout once the report is
> uploaded. I think it actually looks really good, although there a font
> issue described below. If you need help you can join the
> BGTFileUploadHelp group and ask for help there.
> http://groups.yahoo.com/group/BGTFileUploadHelp/
>
> You have a very well written report with excellent pictures. Please see
> my edits below and adjust your report accordingly. Once you are satisfied
> with the report, please upload it to the official folder. Please don't
> forget to delete the copy in the test folder.
>
> Thanks again!
>
> James E. Triplett
> ExOfficio Storm Logic Jacket Monitor
>
> ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
>
> [Edit] General comment. The font of your report starts out as Times New
> Roman, until the "INITIAL IMPRESSIONS" section. There it changes to what
> looks like Arial. Then the paragraphs that start "The jacket is primarily
> marketed as a travel jacket" and "The other travel oriented feature of the
> jacket is the integrated pillow" are back to Times New Roman, as well as
> the "Presto, Chango - Travel Pillow" caption. After that it's back to
> Arial.
>
>



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

Your shoes were shipped USPS today, so be on the look-out.  If you need
tracking numbers, let me know and I'll send it to you off-list.

Happy testing,
John

Jerry,

Link and text for my IR.  Thanks in advance.

Mike

http://tinyurl.com/3ukyuor

or

http://www.backpackgeartest.org/reviews/test/TESTS/IR%20-%20Tilley%20Endurables%\
20Tec-Wool%20Cap%20-%20Mike%20Pearl/


TILLEY  WOOL CAP
TEST SERIES BY MIKE PEARL
IR
October 05, 2011
 
TESTER INFORMATION
 
NAME: Mike Pearl
EMAIL: mikepearl36ATyahooDOTcom
AGE: 37
LOCATION: Woodstock, Vermont, USA
GENDER: M
HEIGHT: 5' 9" (1.75 m)
WEIGHT: 155 lb (70.30 kg)
 
My backpacking experience began six years ago, after years of car camping. Most
trips are for two or three days, some lasting a week. I hike with a group of two
to four, with plans for a multi-day solo hike this summer. I pack a tent or tarp
depending on availability of trail shelters.  A average day is 12 miles (19 km).
While aware of weight, it is not my primary concern. I strive for enjoyable
outings with functional, reliable gear. I usually travel in woodland mountain
terrain. I am a three-season camper, but enjoy hiking all year.



 
 
INITIAL REPORT
             
PRODUCT INFORMATION & SPECIFICATIONS
 
Manufacturer:  Tilley Endurables
Year of Manufacture:  2011
Manufacturer's Website: <<HYPERLINK GOES HERE - "http://www.Tilley.com" LINK
TEXT = "www.Tilley.com">>
MSRP: US$ 76.00

Listed Weight: 4.2 oz (119 g)
Measured Weight: 4.3 oz (121 g)

Size Tested: Medium
Sizes Available:  Small - Double Extra Large

Color Tested:  Black Mix
Colors Available:  Black Mix and Brown Mix

Materials:  75% wool, 19% polyester, 6% polyurethane fabric with quilted
hydrofil polyester lining

Made in Canada

Tilley Endurables hats are guaranteed for life and insured against loss.


 
INITIAL IMPRESSIONS
 
<<IMAGE GOES HERE. ALT TEXT = "Tec-Wool Cap">>
The TTWC Tec-Wool Cap arrived as seen in the picture above.  Four informational
tags were attached to the cap written in English and French.  One with the
description, size, color and price of the cap.  The second stating were the cap
was made.

The third list features of the Tec-Wool Cap and Tilley;
-Guaranteed for life not to wear out
-Insured against loss
-Wool blend is lightweight, adjusts to current outdoor temperatures, keeping you
warm in cold weather and                       comfortable when your temperature
starts to climb
-Quilted lining, with discreet tuckaway ear warmers
-Secret pocket

The fourth tag explains the trademarked c_change, The Bionic Climate Membrane. 
This material is described as, "a waterproof and windproof membrane which
independently reacts to changing temperatures and activities.  Similar to pine
cones, it closes when exposed to cold and opens in response to warmth.  Due to
the high level of breathability, combined with insulation adapted to the
respective situation, c_change ensures the ideal body temperature."

The Tec-Wool Cap has a look different from other hats I have worn.  The top
portion is oval shaped and flat on top.  The sides of the cap extend straight up
and meet the top at a right angle.  I am not sure how to classify this style but
I think it looks cool.  The quality of materials and construction is solid.  The
Company Website states each hat is hand-sew and all seams are lock-stitched. 
The exterior has the expected rough wool texture.  The bill of the cap is 7.5 in
(19 cm) wide and 2.75 in (7 cm) long.  The interior is quilted polyester and
soft to the touch.  The ear warmers line the inside back and side portion of the
cap.  The weight and feel of the cap suggest it will quite warm.
 
READING THE INSTRUCTIONS
 
No real instructions for using the Tec-Wool Cap.  The only one mentioned is
about care for the cap, dry-clean only.  This is found on the label inside the
cap.  Along with a list of materials and country of origin, in English and
French.  As well as Tilley Endurables contact information and place to put mine.

Underneath the label is the secret pocket which is held closed with a strip of
velcro.
<<IMAGE GOES HERE. ALT TEXT = "Secret Pocket">>


 
TRYING IT OUT
 
Grabbing the cap by bill I plunked the Tec-Wool on my head.  The cap fits
nicely, it is snug but not tight.  Taking the cap off again the ear warmers
easily fold out.  This exposes the internal velcro size adjusters.  The cap fits
fine so the adjusters are left at the largest setting.  Now putting the cap on
is made easier by holding the ear warmers and pulling it over my head.  The ear
warmers completely cover my ears and the upper part of my neck.  The cap fits a
bit loser this way but still stays in place.





<<IMAGE GOES HERE. ALT TEXT = "w/o Ear Warmers">><<IMAGE GOES HERE. ALT TEXT =
"Size Adjuster">><<IMAGE GOES HERE. ALT TEXT = "w/ Ear Warmers">>
 
SUMMARY
 
The Tec-Wool Cap is a stylish piece of headwear.  The materials and construction
are flawless.  The Tec-Wool is a cap made for cold weather in mind.   I like the
built in stowable ear warmers.  The features provided by the c_change material
are very appealing to me.  I am looking forward to getting out into the elements
with the Tec-Wool Cap.

Thanks to Tilley Endurables and BackpackGearTest.org for the opportunity to test
the Tec-Wool Cap.  This concludes my Initial Report.  Please check back in two
months for the Field Report.

 
 
 
This report was created with the BGT Report Generator.
Copyright 2011.  All rights reserved.

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

Mike and Kathy, your jackets were shipped today, so be on the look-out.
Kristine, due to your teeny-tiny size, your jacket won't be shipped until
10/26.  I'll alert you when I have the actual ship date.

Kathy, have fun in the 80+ degree weather...

John

Okay sounds good!

On Oct 3, 2011, at 4:42 PM, <exec@...> wrote:

> Mike and Kathy, your jackets were shipped today, so be on the look-out.
> Kristine, due to your teeny-tiny size, your jacket won't be shipped until
> 10/26. I'll alert you when I have the actual ship date.
>
> Kathy, have fun in the 80+ degree weather...
>
> John
>
>


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

I'm wondering If I am in a time warp, you say shipped, I find them on
my doormat. Except the packing list says they were packed and shipped
9/30.

IR to follow.

Lori


On Sep 30, 2011, at 7:26 AM, <exec@...> <exec@...> wrote:

>
> Product will be shipped on Monday, so be on the look-out. Thanks
> for your
> patience and happy testing.
>
> John
>
>
> <!-- #ygrp-mkp { border: 1px solid #d8d8d8; font-family: Arial;
> margin: 10px 0; padding: 0 10px; } #ygrp-mkp hr { border: 1px solid
> #d8d8d8; } #ygrp-mkp #hd { color: #628c2a; font-size: 85%; font-
> weight: 700; line-height: 122%; margin: 10px 0; } #ygrp-mkp #ads
> { margin-bottom: 10px; } #ygrp-mkp .ad { padding: 0 0; } #ygrp-
> mkp .ad p { margin: 0; } #ygrp-mkp .ad a { color: #0000ff; text-
> decoration: none; } #ygrp-sponsor #ygrp-lc { font-family: Arial; }
> #ygrp-sponsor #ygrp-lc #hd { margin: 10px 0px; font-weight: 700;
> font-size: 78%; line-height: 122%; } #ygrp-sponsor #ygrp-lc .ad
> { margin-bottom: 10px; padding: 0 0; } a { color: #1e66ae; }
> #actions {    font-family: Verdana; font-size: 11px; padding: 10px
> 0; } #activity { background-color: #e0ecee; float: left; font-
> family: Verdana; font-size: 10px; padding: 10px; } #activity span
> { font-weight: 700; } #activity span:first-child { text-transform:
> uppercase; } #activity span a {    color: #5085b6; text-decoration:
> none; } #activity span span { color: #ff7900; } #activity
> span .underline { text-decoration: underline; } .attach { clear:
> both; display: table; font-family: Arial; font-size: 12px; padding:
> 10px 0; width: 400px; } .attach div a { text-decoration:
> none; } .attach img { border: none; padding-right: 5px; } .attach
> label { display: block; margin-bottom: 5px; } .attach label a
> { text-decoration: none; } blockquote { margin: 0 0 0 4px; } .bold
> { font-family: Arial; font-size: 13px; font-weight: 700; } .bold a
> { text-decoration: none; } dd.last p a { font-family: Verdana; font-
> weight: 700; } dd.last p span { margin-right: 10px; font-family:
> Verdana; font-weight: 700; } dd.last p span.yshortcuts { margin-
> right: 0; } div.attach-table div div a { text-decoration: none; }
> div.attach-table { width: 400px; } div.file-title a, div.file-title
> a:active, div.file-title a:hover, div.file-title a:visited { text-
> decoration: none; } div.photo-title a, div.photo-title a:active,
> div.photo-title a:hover, div.photo-title a:visited { text-
> decoration: none; } div#ygrp-mlmsg #ygrp-msg p a span.yshortcuts
> { font-family: Verdana; font-size: 10px; font-weight:
> normal; } .green { color: #628c2a; } .MsoNormal { margin: 0 0 0
> 0;  } o { font-size: 0; } #photos div { float: left; width: 72px; }
> #photos div div { border: 1px solid #666666; height: 62px;
> overflow: hidden; width: 62px; } #photos div label { color:
> #666666; font-size: 10px; overflow: hidden; text-align: center;
> white-space: nowrap; width: 64px; } #reco-category { font-size:
> 77%; } #reco-desc { font-size: 77%; } .replbq { margin: 4px; }
> #ygrp-actbar div a:first-child { /* border-right: 0px solid #000;*/
> margin-right: 2px; padding-right: 5px; } #ygrp-mlmsg { font-size:
> 13px; font-family: Arial, helvetica,clean, sans-serif; *font-size:
> small; *font: x-small; } #ygrp-mlmsg table { font-size: inherit;
> font: 100%; } #ygrp-mlmsg select, input, textarea { font: 99%
> Arial, Helvetica, clean, sans-serif; } #ygrp-mlmsg pre, code { font:
> 115% monospace; *font-size:100%; } #ygrp-mlmsg * { line-height:
> 1.22em; } #ygrp-mlmsg #logo { padding-bottom: 10px; } #ygrp-mlmsg a
> { color: #1E66AE; } #ygrp-msg p a { font-family: Verdana; } #ygrp-
> msg p#attach-count span { color: #1E66AE; font-weight: 700; } #ygrp-
> reco #reco-head { color: #ff7900; font-weight: 700; } #ygrp-reco
> { margin-bottom: 20px; padding: 0px; } #ygrp-sponsor #ov li a
> { font-size: 130%; text-decoration: none; } #ygrp-sponsor #ov li
> { font-size: 77%; list-style-type: square; padding: 6px 0; } #ygrp-
> sponsor #ov ul { margin: 0; padding: 0 0 0 8px; } #ygrp-text { font-
> family: Georgia; } #ygrp-text p { margin: 0 0 1em 0; } #ygrp-text
> tt { font-size: 120%; } #ygrp-vital ul li:last-child { border-
> right: none !important; } -->

Well, the 30th was the day after the rep said she would check, so I guess
she got the ball rolling.

John

----- Original Message -----
From: "Lori" <lori.pontious@...>
To: <backpackgeartesters@yahoogroups.com>
Sent: Monday, October 03, 2011 6:11 PM
Subject: [backpackgeartesters] ARRIVED BR Map tools


> I'm wondering If I am in a time warp, you say shipped, I find them on
> my doormat. Except the packing list says they were packed and shipped
> 9/30.
>
> IR to follow.
>
> Lori
>
>
> On Sep 30, 2011, at 7:26 AM, <exec@...> <exec@...> wrote:
>
>>
>> Product will be shipped on Monday, so be on the look-out. Thanks
>> for your
>> patience and happy testing.
>>
>> John
>>
>>
>> <!-- #ygrp-mkp { border: 1px solid #d8d8d8; font-family: Arial;
>> margin: 10px 0; padding: 0 10px; } #ygrp-mkp hr { border: 1px solid
>> #d8d8d8; } #ygrp-mkp #hd { color: #628c2a; font-size: 85%; font-
>> weight: 700; line-height: 122%; margin: 10px 0; } #ygrp-mkp #ads
>> { margin-bottom: 10px; } #ygrp-mkp .ad { padding: 0 0; } #ygrp-
>> mkp .ad p { margin: 0; } #ygrp-mkp .ad a { color: #0000ff; text-
>> decoration: none; } #ygrp-sponsor #ygrp-lc { font-family: Arial; }
>> #ygrp-sponsor #ygrp-lc #hd { margin: 10px 0px; font-weight: 700;
>> font-size: 78%; line-height: 122%; } #ygrp-sponsor #ygrp-lc .ad
>> { margin-bottom: 10px; padding: 0 0; } a { color: #1e66ae; }
>> #actions {    font-family: Verdana; font-size: 11px; padding: 10px
>> 0; } #activity { background-color: #e0ecee; float: left; font-
>> family: Verdana; font-size: 10px; padding: 10px; } #activity span
>> { font-weight: 700; } #activity span:first-child { text-transform:
>> uppercase; } #activity span a {    color: #5085b6; text-decoration:
>> none; } #activity span span { color: #ff7900; } #activity
>> span .underline { text-decoration: underline; } .attach { clear:
>> both; display: table; font-family: Arial; font-size: 12px; padding:
>> 10px 0; width: 400px; } .attach div a { text-decoration:
>> none; } .attach img { border: none; padding-right: 5px; } .attach
>> label { display: block; margin-bottom: 5px; } .attach label a
>> { text-decoration: none; } blockquote { margin: 0 0 0 4px; } .bold
>> { font-family: Arial; font-size: 13px; font-weight: 700; } .bold a
>> { text-decoration: none; } dd.last p a { font-family: Verdana; font-
>> weight: 700; } dd.last p span { margin-right: 10px; font-family:
>> Verdana; font-weight: 700; } dd.last p span.yshortcuts { margin-
>> right: 0; } div.attach-table div div a { text-decoration: none; }
>> div.attach-table { width: 400px; } div.file-title a, div.file-title
>> a:active, div.file-title a:hover, div.file-title a:visited { text-
>> decoration: none; } div.photo-title a, div.photo-title a:active,
>> div.photo-title a:hover, div.photo-title a:visited { text-
>> decoration: none; } div#ygrp-mlmsg #ygrp-msg p a span.yshortcuts
>> { font-family: Verdana; font-size: 10px; font-weight:
>> normal; } .green { color: #628c2a; } .MsoNormal { margin: 0 0 0
>> 0;  } o { font-size: 0; } #photos div { float: left; width: 72px; }
>> #photos div div { border: 1px solid #666666; height: 62px;
>> overflow: hidden; width: 62px; } #photos div label { color:
>> #666666; font-size: 10px; overflow: hidden; text-align: center;
>> white-space: nowrap; width: 64px; } #reco-category { font-size:
>> 77%; } #reco-desc { font-size: 77%; } .replbq { margin: 4px; }
>> #ygrp-actbar div a:first-child { /* border-right: 0px solid #000;*/
>> margin-right: 2px; padding-right: 5px; } #ygrp-mlmsg { font-size:
>> 13px; font-family: Arial, helvetica,clean, sans-serif; *font-size:
>> small; *font: x-small; } #ygrp-mlmsg table { font-size: inherit;
>> font: 100%; } #ygrp-mlmsg select, input, textarea { font: 99%
>> Arial, Helvetica, clean, sans-serif; } #ygrp-mlmsg pre, code { font:
>> 115% monospace; *font-size:100%; } #ygrp-mlmsg * { line-height:
>> 1.22em; } #ygrp-mlmsg #logo { padding-bottom: 10px; } #ygrp-mlmsg a
>> { color: #1E66AE; } #ygrp-msg p a { font-family: Verdana; } #ygrp-
>> msg p#attach-count span { color: #1E66AE; font-weight: 700; } #ygrp-
>> reco #reco-head { color: #ff7900; font-weight: 700; } #ygrp-reco
>> { margin-bottom: 20px; padding: 0px; } #ygrp-sponsor #ov li a
>> { font-size: 130%; text-decoration: none; } #ygrp-sponsor #ov li
>> { font-size: 77%; list-style-type: square; padding: 6px 0; } #ygrp-
>> sponsor #ov ul { margin: 0; padding: 0 0 0 8px; } #ygrp-text { font-
>> family: Georgia; } #ygrp-text p { margin: 0 0 1em 0; } #ygrp-text
>> tt { font-size: 120%; } #ygrp-vital ul li:last-child { border-
>> right: none !important; } -->
>
>
>
> ------------------------------------
>
> Yahoo! Groups Links
>
>
>

----- Original Message -----
From: <exec@...>
To: <backpackgeartesters@yahoogroups.com>
Sent: Monday, October 03, 2011 6:32 PM
Subject: Re: [backpackgeartesters] ARRIVED BR Map tools


> Well, the 30th was the day after the rep said she would check, so I guess
> she got the ball rolling.
>
> John
>
> ----- Original Message -----
> From: "Lori" <lori.pontious@...>
> To: <backpackgeartesters@yahoogroups.com>
> Sent: Monday, October 03, 2011 6:11 PM
> Subject: [backpackgeartesters] ARRIVED BR Map tools
>
>
>> I'm wondering If I am in a time warp, you say shipped, I find them on
>> my doormat. Except the packing list says they were packed and shipped
>> 9/30.
>>
>> IR to follow.
>>
>> Lori
>>
>>
>> On Sep 30, 2011, at 7:26 AM, <exec@...> <exec@...> wrote:
>>
>>>
>>> Product will be shipped on Monday, so be on the look-out. Thanks
>>> for your
>>> patience and happy testing.
>>>
>>> John
>>>
>>>
>>> <!-- #ygrp-mkp { border: 1px solid #d8d8d8; font-family: Arial;
>>> margin: 10px 0; padding: 0 10px; } #ygrp-mkp hr { border: 1px solid
>>> #d8d8d8; } #ygrp-mkp #hd { color: #628c2a; font-size: 85%; font-
>>> weight: 700; line-height: 122%; margin: 10px 0; } #ygrp-mkp #ads
>>> { margin-bottom: 10px; } #ygrp-mkp .ad { padding: 0 0; } #ygrp-
>>> mkp .ad p { margin: 0; } #ygrp-mkp .ad a { color: #0000ff; text-
>>> decoration: none; } #ygrp-sponsor #ygrp-lc { font-family: Arial; }
>>> #ygrp-sponsor #ygrp-lc #hd { margin: 10px 0px; font-weight: 700;
>>> font-size: 78%; line-height: 122%; } #ygrp-sponsor #ygrp-lc .ad
>>> { margin-bottom: 10px; padding: 0 0; } a { color: #1e66ae; }
>>> #actions {    font-family: Verdana; font-size: 11px; padding: 10px
>>> 0; } #activity { background-color: #e0ecee; float: left; font-
>>> family: Verdana; font-size: 10px; padding: 10px; } #activity span
>>> { font-weight: 700; } #activity span:first-child { text-transform:
>>> uppercase; } #activity span a {    color: #5085b6; text-decoration:
>>> none; } #activity span span { color: #ff7900; } #activity
>>> span .underline { text-decoration: underline; } .attach { clear:
>>> both; display: table; font-family: Arial; font-size: 12px; padding:
>>> 10px 0; width: 400px; } .attach div a { text-decoration:
>>> none; } .attach img { border: none; padding-right: 5px; } .attach
>>> label { display: block; margin-bottom: 5px; } .attach label a
>>> { text-decoration: none; } blockquote { margin: 0 0 0 4px; } .bold
>>> { font-family: Arial; font-size: 13px; font-weight: 700; } .bold a
>>> { text-decoration: none; } dd.last p a { font-family: Verdana; font-
>>> weight: 700; } dd.last p span { margin-right: 10px; font-family:
>>> Verdana; font-weight: 700; } dd.last p span.yshortcuts { margin-
>>> right: 0; } div.attach-table div div a { text-decoration: none; }
>>> div.attach-table { width: 400px; } div.file-title a, div.file-title
>>> a:active, div.file-title a:hover, div.file-title a:visited { text-
>>> decoration: none; } div.photo-title a, div.photo-title a:active,
>>> div.photo-title a:hover, div.photo-title a:visited { text-
>>> decoration: none; } div#ygrp-mlmsg #ygrp-msg p a span.yshortcuts
>>> { font-family: Verdana; font-size: 10px; font-weight:
>>> normal; } .green { color: #628c2a; } .MsoNormal { margin: 0 0 0
>>> 0;  } o { font-size: 0; } #photos div { float: left; width: 72px; }
>>> #photos div div { border: 1px solid #666666; height: 62px;
>>> overflow: hidden; width: 62px; } #photos div label { color:
>>> #666666; font-size: 10px; overflow: hidden; text-align: center;
>>> white-space: nowrap; width: 64px; } #reco-category { font-size:
>>> 77%; } #reco-desc { font-size: 77%; } .replbq { margin: 4px; }
>>> #ygrp-actbar div a:first-child { /* border-right: 0px solid #000;*/
>>> margin-right: 2px; padding-right: 5px; } #ygrp-mlmsg { font-size:
>>> 13px; font-family: Arial, helvetica,clean, sans-serif; *font-size:
>>> small; *font: x-small; } #ygrp-mlmsg table { font-size: inherit;
>>> font: 100%; } #ygrp-mlmsg select, input, textarea { font: 99%
>>> Arial, Helvetica, clean, sans-serif; } #ygrp-mlmsg pre, code { font:
>>> 115% monospace; *font-size:100%; } #ygrp-mlmsg * { line-height:
>>> 1.22em; } #ygrp-mlmsg #logo { padding-bottom: 10px; } #ygrp-mlmsg a
>>> { color: #1E66AE; } #ygrp-msg p a { font-family: Verdana; } #ygrp-
>>> msg p#attach-count span { color: #1E66AE; font-weight: 700; } #ygrp-
>>> reco #reco-head { color: #ff7900; font-weight: 700; } #ygrp-reco
>>> { margin-bottom: 20px; padding: 0px; } #ygrp-sponsor #ov li a
>>> { font-size: 130%; text-decoration: none; } #ygrp-sponsor #ov li
>>> { font-size: 77%; list-style-type: square; padding: 6px 0; } #ygrp-
>>> sponsor #ov ul { margin: 0; padding: 0 0 0 8px; } #ygrp-text { font-
>>> family: Georgia; } #ygrp-text p { margin: 0 0 1em 0; } #ygrp-text
>>> tt { font-size: 120%; } #ygrp-vital ul li:last-child { border-
>>> right: none !important; } -->
>>
>>
>>
>> ------------------------------------
>>
>> Yahoo! Groups Links
>>
>>
>>
>
>
>
>
> ------------------------------------
>
> Yahoo! Groups Links
>
>
>

Michael,

It has been a while.  I hope I caught everything.

http://tinyurl.com/3sdbwks

Mike

FIELD REPORT

Field Conditions & Performance

<<IMAGE GOES HERE. ALT TEXT = "IMAGE 1"  IMAGE CAPTION = "We made it to
Camp">>During the Field Report phase of the test series I was able to use the
Past Primitive Deluxe Cook Set on three weekend trips totaling 9 days and 6
nights of use.  Two of the trips were in the Comanche Peaks Wilderness Area at
an elevation of approximately 11,000 ft (3,350 m) and both were "Blue Bird" days
with average night time temperatures in the mid 40's F (7.2 C).  The other trip
was in the Roosevelt National Forest at an elevation of 10,500 ft (3,200 m). 
While the temperatures were favorable with nighttime temps in the 40's F (7.2 C)
again, there was decent breeze during this trip.  I would estimate that the
sustained winds averaged 10 mph (16 kph), so it was fairly windy for a summer
trip.

I would like to point out that I made 4 other trips during the testing process
that I was not able to take this cooking kit.  All trips were in Designated
Travel Zones in the Indian Peaks and Comanche Peaks Wilderness Areas and open
flames were prohibited.

On the three trips that I was able to take the cook kit on, I cooked re-hydrated
meals exclusively, so I only boiled water.  This included commercial freeze
dried meals that required 2 C (0.47 L) or less of water as well as homemade
dehydrated meals with oatmeal and hot chocolate for breakfast.  When cooking,
the meals were for two; myself and either my son or my wife.  In all cases I
re-hydrated the meals in their own bag, or poured water into a cup to mix the
oatmeal, no food was prepared in the pot.  I used standard denatured alcohol as
my fuel and the water temperature was cold.  The water was so cold I could only
keep feet in it for about 10 seconds, it was mostly glacial runoff and there was
still a lot of snow around in July and August.

For the first trip I took everything in the kit with me and I packed everything
(with the exception of the fuel bottle and syringe) inside the Ziploc container.
I have learned from past experiences not to carry denatured alcohol inside of my
cooking vessel, it leaks easy and stinks very much.  Instead I carried my fuel
in a 1 L Ziploc freezer bag (double bagged) outside of my pack in a side water
bottle pocket.  I didn't experience any leakage with the supplied bottle, but I
don't like to take chances.  In addition, I wrapped the threads of the bottle
top with Teflon pluming tape and sealed the flip top cap with a piece of duct
tape.

On my second and third trip I left a few items at home (the spatula and the
aluminum pot gripper) and I also substituted the supplied fuel bottle with a
smaller 4 oz (120 ml) fuel bottle I had from another alcohol stove kit.  I did
this because 8 oz (240 ml) is slightly more fuel capacity than I needed and
typically if I have a bit of extra fuel I put too much in the stove and then the
stove burns longer than needed.  The spatula was not needed since my meals were
re-hydrated in a bag and I chose to use the foam pad as a pot gripper.  The foam
pad works really well even though it melted just a bit where my fingertips
applied pressure.

<<IMAGE GOES HERE. ALT TEXT = "IMAGE 2"  IMAGE CAPTION = "Sunet and Moose, our
view">>For my evening meals, I heated 2 C (0.47 L) of water using 25 ml of fuel
and to be honest I didn't time the burn, I just let the fuel run its course. 
While the stove burned I watched some moose and some sunsets while the stove
burned silently; it was nice not having a jet blast noise in the background
while relaxing.  I'm guessing the stove burned for 8 - 10 minutes, it did
achieve a boil and was hot enough to re-hydrate my meals (great with pasta and
ground meat but the carrots were a little hard).  In the morning I only needed
hot water, not a full boil, so I only used 15 ml of fuel and I would heat 2 C
(0.47 L) for oatmeal and then refill the fuel for another 2 C (0.47 L) for hot
chocolate.  So I used 30 ml for breakfast twice and two dinners that used 25 ml
each for a total fuel consumption of 110 ml for a weekend trip.

In general, I think the stove worked for me as designed, but I did add a little
bit of extra fuel on the windy trip and I built up some extra wind breaks to
help.  I also noticed that with such a narrow base and stove stand that it is
crucial to set the stove up on a firm and level ground.  And finally, I wanted
to test the durability of the Ziploc container so I jammed it in the pack and
was really rough with it (more so than I would normally be).  While the
container didn't crack, the lid did crumple enough for me to want to replace it.
Fortunately those containers are cheaper than heck and available nearly
everywhere, so I picked another one up.

Observations

I thought the cooking kit did very well on the 3 trips that I had experience
with.  I'm a big fan of fully contained cooking kits and with the exception of
my preference to keep the fuel separated this one has a lot of features.  The
wind screen really helps contain and maximize the heat produced, but I really do
feel that the kit is rather fuel inefficient.  I think this is due to the narrow
base of the cooking vessel since I see a lot of the flames wrap up the sides of
the pot.  My un-scientific guess is that what would normally take 20 ml of fuel
in another cooking kit I have takes 25 ml of fuel in the Past Primitive Kit. 
While 5 ml isn't much, that is around 25% more fuel.  Having said that I still
like the kit and will continue to use it.  It is lighter than my fully contained
canister system, cooks incredibly quietly and I can adjust and adapt it for how
I want to use it by leaving pieces at home or taking additional piece.

There are two pieces to the kit that I could call fragile or easily damaged /
disposable.  One is the Ziploc container that was previously discussed; the
other is the foam pad that did melt just a little bit.  Melting might be an
overstatement, there is permanent depressions where my fingertips applied
pressure and the pot was warm and the foam compressed.  Even with that, I found
it very useful and wanted to get some foam pads for other cooking kits and we
found foam sheets at a craft store for under $1.  So the pieces that I found to
be delicate can be replaced easily and very inexpensively.

<<IMAGE GOES HERE. ALT TEXT = "IMAGE 3"  IMAGE CAPTION = "the set up in wind">>

Things I Like…

<ul><li>Light weight</li>
<li>Fully contained cooking kit</li>
<li>Easy to fill with the syringe</li>
<li>Sturdy windscreen</li></ul>

Things That I Would Change…

<ul><li>Fuel efficiency and the narrow pot base</li>
<li>Narrow pot stand, I haven't knocked a full pot over.... yet</ul></li>

Summary

Overall I like it, if I needed more from a cook kit I would take a canister set
up.  I'm not sure how much more I will be able to use this kit in the up coming
months.  With winter conditions on their way, I'm getting ready to switch over
to my winter gear and that doesn't include alcohol stoves.  But I'll give it a
shot in the snow within the next two months, check back in December to see how
it did.

I would like to thank to Past Primitive and BackpackGearTest.org for the
opportunity to test this cooking kit, it is working well so far.

Michael,

Forgot to put my name on it - sorry..........

It has been a while. I hope I caught everything.

http://tinyurl.com/3sdbwks

Mike

FIELD REPORT

Field Conditions & Performance

<<IMAGE GOES HERE. ALT TEXT = "IMAGE 1"  IMAGE CAPTION = "We made it to
Camp">>During the Field Report phase of the test series I was able to use the
Past Primitive Deluxe Cook Set on three weekend trips totaling 9 days and 6
nights of use.  Two of the trips were in the Comanche Peaks Wilderness Area at
an elevation of approximately 11,000 ft (3,350 m) and both were "Blue Bird" days
with average night time temperatures in the mid 40's F (7.2 C).  The other trip
was in the Roosevelt National Forest at an elevation of 10,500 ft (3,200 m). 
While the temperatures were favorable with nighttime temps in the 40's F (7.2 C)
again, there was decent breeze during this trip.  I would estimate that the
sustained winds averaged 10 mph (16 kph), so it was fairly windy for a summer
trip.

I would like to point out that I made 4 other trips during the testing process
that I was not able to take this cooking kit.  All trips were in Designated
Travel Zones in the Indian Peaks and Comanche Peaks Wilderness Areas and open
flames were prohibited.

On the three trips that I was able to take the cook kit on, I cooked re-hydrated
meals exclusively, so I only boiled water.  This included commercial freeze
dried meals that required 2 C (0.47 L) or less of water as well as homemade
dehydrated meals with oatmeal and hot chocolate for breakfast.  When cooking,
the meals were for two; myself and either my son or my wife.  In all cases I
re-hydrated the meals in their own bag, or poured water into a cup to mix the
oatmeal, no food was prepared in the pot.  I used standard denatured alcohol as
my fuel and the water temperature was cold.  The water was so cold I could only
keep feet in it for about 10 seconds, it was mostly glacial runoff and there was
still a lot of snow around in July and August.

For the first trip I took everything in the kit with me and I packed everything
(with the exception of the fuel bottle and syringe) inside the Ziploc container.
I have learned from past experiences not to carry denatured alcohol inside of my
cooking vessel, it leaks easy and stinks very much.  Instead I carried my fuel
in a 1 L Ziploc freezer bag (double bagged) outside of my pack in a side water
bottle pocket.  I didn't experience any leakage with the supplied bottle, but I
don't like to take chances.  In addition, I wrapped the threads of the bottle
top with Teflon pluming tape and sealed the flip top cap with a piece of duct
tape.

On my second and third trip I left a few items at home (the spatula and the
aluminum pot gripper) and I also substituted the supplied fuel bottle with a
smaller 4 oz (120 ml) fuel bottle I had from another alcohol stove kit.  I did
this because 8 oz (240 ml) is slightly more fuel capacity than I needed and
typically if I have a bit of extra fuel I put too much in the stove and then the
stove burns longer than needed.  The spatula was not needed since my meals were
re-hydrated in a bag and I chose to use the foam pad as a pot gripper.  The foam
pad works really well even though it melted just a bit where my fingertips
applied pressure.

<<IMAGE GOES HERE. ALT TEXT = "IMAGE 2"  IMAGE CAPTION = "Sunet and Moose, our
view">>For my evening meals, I heated 2 C (0.47 L) of water using 25 ml of fuel
and to be honest I didn't time the burn, I just let the fuel run its course. 
While the stove burned I watched some moose and some sunsets while the stove
burned silently; it was nice not having a jet blast noise in the background
while relaxing.  I'm guessing the stove burned for 8 - 10 minutes, it did
achieve a boil and was hot enough to re-hydrate my meals (great with pasta and
ground meat but the carrots were a little hard).  In the morning I only needed
hot water, not a full boil, so I only used 15 ml of fuel and I would heat 2 C
(0.47 L) for oatmeal and then refill the fuel for another 2 C (0.47 L) for hot
chocolate.  So I used 30 ml for breakfast twice and two dinners that used 25 ml
each for a total fuel consumption of 110 ml for a weekend trip.

In general, I think the stove worked for me as designed, but I did add a little
bit of extra fuel on the windy trip and I built up some extra wind breaks to
help.  I also noticed that with such a narrow base and stove stand that it is
crucial to set the stove up on a firm and level ground.  And finally, I wanted
to test the durability of the Ziploc container so I jammed it in the pack and
was really rough with it (more so than I would normally be).  While the
container didn't crack, the lid did crumple enough for me to want to replace it.
Fortunately those containers are cheaper than heck and available nearly
everywhere, so I picked another one up.

Observations

I thought the cooking kit did very well on the 3 trips that I had experience
with.  I'm a big fan of fully contained cooking kits and with the exception of
my preference to keep the fuel separated this one has a lot of features.  The
wind screen really helps contain and maximize the heat produced, but I really do
feel that the kit is rather fuel inefficient.  I think this is due to the narrow
base of the cooking vessel since I see a lot of the flames wrap up the sides of
the pot.  My un-scientific guess is that what would normally take 20 ml of fuel
in another cooking kit I have takes 25 ml of fuel in the Past Primitive Kit. 
While 5 ml isn't much, that is around 25% more fuel.  Having said that I still
like the kit and will continue to use it.  It is lighter than my fully contained
canister system, cooks incredibly quietly and I can adjust and adapt it for how
I want to use it by leaving pieces at home or taking additional piece.

There are two pieces to the kit that I could call fragile or easily damaged /
disposable.  One is the Ziploc container that was previously discussed; the
other is the foam pad that did melt just a little bit.  Melting might be an
overstatement, there is permanent depressions where my fingertips applied
pressure and the pot was warm and the foam compressed.  Even with that, I found
it very useful and wanted to get some foam pads for other cooking kits and we
found foam sheets at a craft store for under $1.  So the pieces that I found to
be delicate can be replaced easily and very inexpensively.

<<IMAGE GOES HERE. ALT TEXT = "IMAGE 3"  IMAGE CAPTION = "the set up in wind">>

Things I Like…

<ul><li>Light weight</li>
<li>Fully contained cooking kit</li>
<li>Easy to fill with the syringe</li>
<li>Sturdy windscreen</li></ul>

Things That I Would Change…

<ul><li>Fuel efficiency and the narrow pot base</li>
<li>Narrow pot stand, I haven't knocked a full pot over.... yet</ul></li>

Summary

Overall I like it, if I needed more from a cook kit I would take a canister set
up.  I'm not sure how much more I will be able to use this kit in the up coming
months.  With winter conditions on their way, I'm getting ready to switch over
to my winter gear and that doesn't include alcohol stoves.  But I'll give it a
shot in the snow within the next two months, check back in December to see how
it did.

I would like to thank to Past Primitive and BackpackGearTest.org for the
opportunity to test this cooking kit, it is working well so far.

Hello Kathy,
I'm still running a little behind, could I get an extension until 10/7?

Nice
report
As
usual, EDIT - edit, edit - change to something like that, comment - just that.
Upload
when edits are done and delete from test folder.
"A average day is 12 miles
(19 km). "
EDIT - An average day
 
"The second stating were the
cap was made."
EDIT - where
 
The fourth tag explains the trademarked c_change
EDIT - they capitalize it C_change on the website, and two other places in the
IR
 
Underneath the label is the
secret pocket which is held closed with a strip of velcro.
EDIT - Velcro should be capitalized
 
This exposes the internal
velcro size adjusters
EDIT - Velcro
 
The last 4 pictures are sort of weird, is it as you intended?  The first picture
with "TRYING IT OUT" to the right, the 2nd and 3rd pictures are okay, the 4th
picture is to the right of "SUMMARY".  If that's what you intended, fine.  Maybe
I just have no imagination : )


  

   .




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

Jerry, Chad and Brian.

Be on the lookout for the boots as the order has been placed.



Best

Ralph



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

Just a friendly reminder that this test closes tonight.  So far I have
applications from the following people:

.         Gail Staisil

.         Kathy Waters

.         Brian Hartman

.         Andrea Murland

.         Erin Hedden



The original call is below!





Well, don't expect these pants to remain invisible! Our great friends at
Sherpa Adventure Gear are looking for three great testers to put their
Saba-Tek (men's) and Naya (women's) pants through the paces. These pants
feature 4-way stretch fabric and are abrasion-resistant and frankly look
awesome for fall and winter tests (as well as bushwacking). They look sleek
enough to wear around town so I'm expecting a lot of apps for these; don't
get left out! More information is available at:

Men's Saba-Tek: http://tinyurl.com/5ub6cx7

Women's Naya: http://tinyurl.com/6yxpbvt

I'm looking for short apps that have the following:
1. The opening disclaimer for testing
2. Your bio, including any measurements specific to the test
3. A brief test plan; just enough to demonstrate that you understand the
product and where/how you will be testing it.
4. Number of ORs in the past 12 months (not including your initial 2)
5. A list of what you are now testing and a link to tester page
6. Any apps you have outstanding. Please note if you have a preference if
there an item that conflicts with this one, such as down pants.
7. Any additional BGT roles you play (mentor, monitor, etc.)

* Curt is the Moderator on this one.

* Newbie Limit does NOT apply.

* US Shipping IS included

* This call will close Tuesday October 4th at 10:00 PM MST.

Also, don't forget to cc me at bhaydin AT Hotmail DOT com so your app
doesn't get lost!

Please include 'Sherpa Pants' in the subject line.

Good luck!

-Bretter

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





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

OK, Shane.  Got you down for 10/7.

Kathy

   ----- Original Message -----
   From: coloradosherpa14k
   To: backpackgeartesters@yahoogroups.com
   Sent: Monday, October 03, 2011 9:16 PM
   Subject: [backpackgeartesters] Extension Request: Big Agnes Causeway Trekking
Poles - Shane Williams



   Hello Kathy,
   I'm still running a little behind, could I get an extension until 10/7?





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

I have not received the Tilley hat yet; I've noticed others have. I waited to
see if it would arrive yesterday, but it did not. Can we get a tracking number
for it, please?

Thanks!

-- Chari

Hi Brett,
 
I threw in an app also.  Message 70119.
 
Nancy

From: Brett Haydin <bhaydin@...>
To: backpackgeartesters@yahoogroups.com
Sent: Tuesday, October 4, 2011 7:13 AM
Subject: [backpackgeartesters] TEST CALL CLOSING - Want the Emperor's New
Clothes?


 
Just a friendly reminder that this test closes tonight. So far I have
applications from the following people:

. Gail Staisil

. Kathy Waters

. Brian Hartman

. Andrea Murland

. Erin Hedden

The original call is below!

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

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 273.95 seconds.

190 HTML pages created.  Inlcuding:

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

1 Monitors were assigned to tests.
7 Manufacturers were notified of test progress.
47 Tester Status emails were sent.
18 Tester Reminder emails were sent.
15 Monitor Status emails were sent.

Enjoy!

BridGeT, List Administration Automation

Thanks!  Got it J



From: backpackgeartesters@yahoogroups.com
[mailto:backpackgeartesters@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of Nancy Griffith
Sent: Tuesday, October 04, 2011 8:40 AM
To: backpackgeartesters@yahoogroups.com
Subject: Re: [backpackgeartesters] TEST CALL CLOSING - Want the Emperor's
New Clothes?





Hi Brett,

I threw in an app also.  Message 70119.

Nancy

From: Brett Haydin <bhaydin@... <mailto:bhaydin%40hotmail.com> >
To: backpackgeartesters@yahoogroups.com
<mailto:backpackgeartesters%40yahoogroups.com>
Sent: Tuesday, October 4, 2011 7:13 AM
Subject: [backpackgeartesters] TEST CALL CLOSING - Want the Emperor's New
Clothes?


Just a friendly reminder that this test closes tonight. So far I have
applications from the following people:

. Gail Staisil

. Kathy Waters

. Brian Hartman

. Andrea Murland

. Erin Hedden

The original call is below!

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





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

I'm aware the vendor has contacted some (all) of the testers directly.
  Please DO NOT respond to him directly, but forward the e-mails to me and
the
  mod test will handle the response.

  Thanks,
  Kathy

Thanks for the quick edit. 
Yeah the photos came out wonky.  They didn't look like that when I viewed the
the first time.
Corrections are made and photos realigned.
Cheers!

--- On Tue, 10/4/11, jerry adams <jerryaadams@...> wrote:

From: jerry adams <jerryaadams@...>
Subject: [backpackgeartesters] EDIT -  IR - Tilley Wool Cap - Mike Pearl
To: "backpackgeartesters@yahoogroups.com" <backpackgeartesters@yahoogroups.com>
Date: Tuesday, October 4, 2011, 5:01 AM
















 













Nice

report

As

usual, EDIT - edit, edit - change to something like that, comment - just that.

Upload

when edits are done and delete from test folder.

"A average day is 12 miles

(19 km). "

EDIT - An average day

 

"The second stating were the

cap was made."

EDIT - where

 

The fourth tag explains the trademarked c_change

EDIT - they capitalize it C_change on the website, and two other places in the
IR

 

Underneath the label is the

secret pocket which is held closed with a strip of velcro.

EDIT - Velcro should be capitalized

 

This exposes the internal

velcro size adjusters

EDIT - Velcro

 

The last 4 pictures are sort of weird, is it as you intended?  The first
picture with "TRYING IT OUT" to the right, the 2nd and 3rd pictures are okay,
the 4th picture is to the right of "SUMMARY".  If that's what you intended,
fine.  Maybe I just have no imagination : )



  



.





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



























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

I spoke too soon.  It seems the lay out is changing after uploading?
Mike

--- On Tue, 10/4/11, Mike Pearl <mikepearl36@...> wrote:


From: Mike Pearl <mikepearl36@...>
Subject: Re: [backpackgeartesters] EDIT - IR - Tilley Wool Cap - Mike Pearl
To: backpackgeartesters@yahoogroups.com
Cc: jerryaadams@...
Date: Tuesday, October 4, 2011, 4:34 PM



 



Thanks for the quick edit. 
Yeah the photos came out wonky.  They didn't look like that when I viewed the
the first time.
Corrections are made and photos realigned.
Cheers!

--- On Tue, 10/4/11, jerry adams <jerryaadams@...> wrote:

From: jerry adams <jerryaadams@...>
Subject: [backpackgeartesters] EDIT - IR - Tilley Wool Cap - Mike Pearl
To: "backpackgeartesters@yahoogroups.com" <backpackgeartesters@yahoogroups.com>
Date: Tuesday, October 4, 2011, 5:01 AM

 

Nice

report

As

usual, EDIT - edit, edit - change to something like that, comment - just that.

Upload

when edits are done and delete from test folder.

"A average day is 12 miles

(19 km). "

EDIT - An average day

 

"The second stating were the

cap was made."

EDIT - where

 

The fourth tag explains the trademarked c_change

EDIT - they capitalize it C_change on the website, and two other places in the
IR

 

Underneath the label is the

secret pocket which is held closed with a strip of velcro.

EDIT - Velcro should be capitalized

 

This exposes the internal

velcro size adjusters

EDIT - Velcro

 

The last 4 pictures are sort of weird, is it as you intended?  The first
picture with "TRYING IT OUT" to the right, the 2nd and 3rd pictures are okay,
the 4th picture is to the right of "SUMMARY".  If that's what you intended,
fine.  Maybe I just have no imagination : )

  

.

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

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








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

Mike Curry, Derek Hansen, and Jamie DeBenedetto; come on down!  You are the
next contestants...whoops, sorry, wrong  venue!

But you still get what was behind the curtain and your kids will be thrilled
to learn they will be testing Princeton Tec's Bot headlamp!  Make sure you
get those kids OUTSIDE!

Please send me off-list your shipping info.

Kathy
kathy@...

Only two applications received thus far.  Therefore, this test call is being
extended through Saturday, Oct 8 MDT.

If you can test this item please submit an application.  We'd hate to have to
cancel this test.

Thanks, Ryan

--- In backpackgeartesters@yahoogroups.com, "RyanC" <bigdawgryan@...> wrote:
>
> Another reminder, this test is scheduled to close on Monday night and I see
only one application thus far; thanks Larry!  Come on folks, this looks like a
great item to test.
>
> The original test is included below in case you missed it.
>
> > >
> > > If you like being in the kitchen outdoors, then this test call is for
you.  Sea To Summit and BGT are pleased to offer three individuals the
opportunity to test the Delta Series Kitchen Kit (includes bowl, mug and
cutlery).
> > >
> > > More information on the Delta Series Kitchen is available via the
following link:
> > > Info: http://www.seatosummit.com/products/cat/12
> > >
> > > TEST CALL DETAILS:
> > >
> > >
> > > - Newbie Limit Does NOT Apply
> > > - U.S. Shipping Included
> > >
> > > Succinct applications should include the following:
> > > >  Brief Test Plan
> > > >  Link to Previous Test Reports
> > > >  Link to Tester Status Page (many forget this, please include it)
> > > >  Current Test Load
> > > >  Current Applications
> > > >  Current role(s) at BGT (editor, mentor, monitor, other labors of love)
> > > >  Please include "Delta Series Kitchen Kit" in the subject line of your
application
> > > >  Test Call closes midnight (MDT) Monday Oct 3, 2011
> > >
> > > >  Ralph is the Moderator for this test
> > > Thanks, Ryan
> > >
> > >
> > > [Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
> > >
> >
>

Hi Kathy,
Thanks for picking up my report for edit while Ray is out!  
 
Brian


________________________________
From: Kathy Waters <kathy@...>
To: backpackgeartesters@yahoogroups.com
Sent: Sunday, October 2, 2011 3:26 PM
Subject: [backpackgeartesters] EDIT - LTR - Sherpa Adventure Gear Vajra Jacket -
Brian Hartman


 
Hi, Brian,

I'm picking this edit up for Ray who is OOP for a few more days. Thanks for an
easy edit. Just a few minor things to take care of and you can upload to the
proper folder. Please remember to delete your test file, ok?

Kathy

__________________________________________________________

EDIT: During Long Term testing I wore the Vajra for a total of fouteen days with
four of those being overnight backpacking trips.
EDIT: Correct spelling is "fourteen".

It has also proven itself to be quite breathable which allowed me to continue
wearing it while I exerted myself on uphill climbs rather than stopping to peal
it off only to put it back on again later.
EDIT: In this case the word should be "peel", rather than "peal".

The fabric is fairly durable and the shell has a simple clean design that looks
around town.
EDIT: I think you need to add "good" (?) between "looks" and "around" and maybe
"when worn"?

----- Original Message -----
From: Brian Hartman
To: backpackgeartesters@yahoogroups.com
Cc: Ray
Sent: Thursday, September 29, 2011 11:18 AM
Subject: [backpackgeartesters] LTR - Sherpa Adventure Gear Vajra Jacket - Brian
Hartman

Hi Ray,
Below is my Long Term Report for the Sherpa Adventure Gear Vajra jacket. The
link to my HTML report is:
http://www.backpackgeartest.org/reviews/test/TESTS/LTR%20-%20Sherpa%20Vajra%20Ja\
cket%20-%20Brian%20Hartman/

http://snurl.com/1276sv

Thanks,
Brian

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




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

Steve,
Thanks for your edits.  The text version is below and I have uploaded the
revised IR to the test section  http://tinyurl.com/IR-Gerber-FAST-MET.

Best,
Mark
 

GERBER CRUCIAL F.A.S.T.
TEST SERIES BY MARK THOMPSON
IR
September 30, 2011
 
TESTER INFORMATION
 
NAME: Mark Thompson
EMAIL: markthompson 242 at gmail dot com
AGE: 47
LOCATION: Parker, CO
GENDER: M
HEIGHT: 6' 0" (2.10 m)
WEIGHT: 190 lb (86.20 kg)
 
Outdoor adventures started for me at an early age, my passions have grown to
include backpacking, rock climbing, hiking, hunting, fishing, canoeing, cycling,
skiing and snowshoeing.  Most of my adventures presently take place in
Colorado's amazing Rocky Mountains.  For trail hikes, my pack typically weighs
15 lbs/6.8 kg (summer/fall), 25 lbs/11.3 kg (winter/spring) and trail speed
usually ranges from 2.5 - 3.8 mph (4.0 - 6.1 kph) depending on elevation gain. 
For multi-night backpack trips, my pack weighs 40 - 45 lbs (18 - 20 kg) and my
trail speed drops to 1.5 - 3.0 mph (2.4 - 4.8 kph).
 
 
INITIAL REPORT
    
PRODUCT INFORMATION & SPECIFICATIONS
 
Manufacturer: Gerber
Year of Manufacture: 2011
Manufacturer's Website: <<HYPERLINK GOES HERE - "http://www.gerbergear.com">>
MSRP: US$58.00
Listed Weight: 5.8 oz (164 g)
Measured Weight: 5.8 oz (164 g)
Other details:
From the manufacturer's website, this is a multi-component tool with "Forward
Assisted Spring Technology" (F.A.S.T.).
Components of the tool include:
- Half Fine/Half Serrated Blade
- Long Medium Flat Head Driver
- Long Square Cross Driver
- Bottle Opener
- Needle-nose Pliers
- Regular Pliers
- Pinch Style Wire Cutters
<<IMAGE GOES HERE. ALT TEXT = "IMAGE 2">>
Photo courtesy of Gerber.
 
INITIAL IMPRESSIONS
 
The Gerber Crucial F.A.S.T.  Multitool arrived in a rather plain package
without any of the "normal" paperwork.  The warranty was printed on the outside
of the box, but there were no operating or maintenance instructions (I guess
they figure that everyone knows how to use one or that nobody reads the product
literature).
The manufacturer lists the pliers as three separate tools; however, I would
attest that they are one tool with three different sections and specific uses. 
Although not clear to me as to how many components are being claimed, the site
does list the two different sections of the blade (fine and serrated).  Without
splitting hairs, I see four distinct tools:
     - One knife blade (with fine and serrated sections)
     - Two screw drivers
     - One bottle opener
     - One pair of pliers (with 3 sections)
Most of the pliers I have run across have more than one section:
     - Standard pliers have a flat section on the tip (for grasping flat
objects) and a rounded section in the middle (for items having a circular type
shape, i.e. bolts, etc.) and some have a scissor style cutting section at the
base (although I have never had any luck getting a decent cut from these)
     -  Needle-nose pliers have a small flat section on the tip and pinch
style wire cutters at the base
The Gerber Crucial F.A.S.T. pliers incorporate:
          - Needle-nose pliers on the tip
          - A round section in the middle similar to those found on
standard pliers
          - Pinch style wire cutters at the base
Although not listed as a component, the tool does have a side mounted belt clip.
<<IMAGE GOES HERE. ALT TEXT = "IMAGE 1">>
The tool is a bit on the hefty side (a full ounce heavier than my 40 year old
Swiss army knife) but has a nice feel and pliers!
 

 
TRYING IT OUT
 
Being male, the first thing I had to do was to check out the blade.  The safety
device didn't operate smoothly and gave me some initial challenges as I wasn't
sure if it was the spring loaded type or the on/off variety.  It turns out that
it is the on/off variety and I just needed to push it all the way off.   After
a few uses, the safety seems to be operating properly. The next challenge was to
get my thumb to activate the "Forward Assist Spring Technology" on the knife
blade.  F.A.S.T. represents a design which utilizes a spring to assist in the
opening of the knife.  With any type of spring loaded devise, it is wise to
have a safety lever or catch to prevent accidental activation.  In this case,
accidentally activating the spring loaded blade (assuming a safety devise was
not present) could result in the blade being exposed unintentionally.  I wasn't
too successful in activating F.A.S.T. and ended up testing the edge on the blade
with my
  thumb.  Consistent with every other Gerber knife I have owned, the blade is
razor sharp!
A firm grip was required to open the tool to expose the pliers.  The action was
smooth yet stiff, which I prefer as I sincerely do not like sloppy tools. 
Considering the rather small size of the tool and what I would consider an
average size adult male hand, it fit me well and comfortably.  The edges of the
frame and non-exposed tools were manufactured such that I didn't experience the
cutting or pinching I have with other multi-tools.
Gaining access to the screw drivers and bottle opener was rather uneventful and
both implements have their own locking device which ensures they stay in the
fully extended position during use.  The locking mechanism was easy to release,
enabling a quick and easy closure.
 
 
SUMMARY
 
My hope is that I will be able to replace my aging Swiss army knife (I bought it
in Zermatt, Switzerland nearly 40 years ago) with this Multitool.  It is not
that I dislike my trusty knife, it is quite the opposite, reaching near heirloom
status.  There are obvious differences between the old and the new, but times
have changed and so have the requirements for a field tool.   The Swiss army
knife has nearly twice the number of tools (even when using Gerber's count) but
the Gerber seems to be much more robust and appears to be able to stand up to
significantly more abuse.  The Gerber Crucial F.A.S.T. appears to be a well
built tool that has a nice feel.  I hope to become more adept at using the
F.A.ST. and actually get the blade out safely with one hand.
A special thanks to Gerber and BackpackGearTest.org for allowing me the
opportunity to test this tool.
 
 
 
This report was created with the BGT Report Generator.
Copyright 2011.  All rights reserved.
 
 
---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Mark Thompson <markthompson242@...>
Date: Mon, Oct 3, 2011 at 6:48 PM
Subject: Fw: [backpackgeartesters] EDIT: IR - Gerber Crucial F.A.S.T. Multitool
- Mark Thompson
To: markthompson242@...








--- On Mon, 10/3/11, ftroop94 <ftroop94@...> wrote:


From: ftroop94 <ftroop94@...>
Subject: [backpackgeartesters] EDIT: IR - Gerber Crucial F.A.S.T. Multitool -
Mark Thompson
To: backpackgeartesters@yahoogroups.com
Date: Monday, October 3, 2011, 3:01 AM


 




Mark,

Good start on the Gerber IR. Since there are a few key edits including changing
some of the information around as listed below, I'd like you to post it back to
this site and the Test File before we finalized the edits and upload it to the
site.

Thanks in advance,

Steve

>>Manufacturer's Website: http://www.gerbertools.com
EDIT: Gerber's website is actually as follows: www.gerbergear.com
The site you linked is an online merchant, whereas the latter is the actual
manufacturer's link. The site also bullet points the all the components. I'd
suggest adding them to the Products and Description section and citing the
source.

>>I haven't really figured out how many components the manufacturer is claiming,
but here is what I found:
- One knife blade
- Two screw drivers
- One bottle opener
- One pair of pliers with 3 sections
- on the tip, a needle nose
- in the middle, standard pliers
- at the base, a cutting section
- A belt clip
EDIT: See above. It appears the knife and serrated blade are considered
individual components per the Gerber site. If you want to note this `stretching
it' or `splitting hairs' in your opinion feel free to do so, but based on the
website info you need to correct the previous portion.

I think you need add a little more information about the knife here in the
INITIAL IMPPRESSIONS category. In the TRYING IT OUT section you mention the
F.A.S.T. technology. It would be a good idea to go a little more into how what
this is and how it works in your opinions. You also mention the safety lever in
the ensuing section, but I'm a little confused about it. I would suggest
expanding on this in the I.I. section. You mention it is heavy. How does it feel
in the hand? Is it smooth, textured? Just a few ideas to share with the average
reader that wants to learn about the knife and whether or not it may be a good
fit for them!

>>The tool is a bit on the hefty side (a full ounce heavier than my 40 year old
swiss army knife) but has a nice feel and pliers!
EDIT: Swiss

>>TESTING STRATEGY
My intention is to replace my aging Swiss Army Knife (I bought it in Zermatt,
Switzerland nearly 40 years ago) so my testing strategy is to simply use this
tool like I would my trusty knife. There are obvious differences between the old
and the new, but times have changed and so have the requirements for a field
tool.
EDIT: BGT no longer suggests using this in reports, as we go over it in the
application. Feel free to put some of this information into the summary.

--- In backpackgeartesters@yahoogroups.com, Mark Thompson <markthompson242@...>
wrote:
>
>
>
>  
> Please find my IR at:  http://tinyurl.com/IR-FAST-MET
>
> and below for your editing pleasure.
>  
> Best,
> Mark
>  
>
> GERBER CRUCIAL F.A.S.T.
> TEST SERIES BY MARK THOMPSON
> IR
> September 30, 2011
>  
> TESTER INFORMATION
>  
> NAME: Mark Thompson
> EMAIL: markthompson 242 at gmail dot com
> AGE: 47
> LOCATION: Parker, CO
> GENDER: M
> HEIGHT: 6' 0" (2.10 m)
> WEIGHT: 190 lb (86.20 kg)
> SHOE SIZE (US/EUR): Men's 11/45-46
>  
> Outdoor adventures started for me at an early age, my passions have grown to
include backpacking, rock climbing, hiking, hunting, fishing, canoeing, cycling,
skiing and snowshoeing.  Most of my adventures presently take place in
Colorado's amazing Rocky Mountains.  For trail hikes, my pack typically weighs
15 lbs/6.8 kg (summer/fall), 25 lbs/11.3 kg (winter/spring) and trail speed
usually ranges from 2.5 - 3.8 mph (4.0 - 6.1 kph) depending on elevation gain. 
For multi-night backpack trips, my pack weighs 40 - 45 lbs (18 - 20 kg) and my
trail speed drops to 1.5 - 3.0 mph (2.4 - 4.8 kph).
>  
>  
> INITIAL REPORT
>     
> PRODUCT INFORMATION & SPECIFICATIONS
>  
> Manufacturer: Gerber
> Year of Manufacture: 2011
> Manufacturer's Website: <<HYPERLINK GOES HERE - "http://www.gerbertools.com">>
> MSRP: US$75.00
> Listed Weight: 5.8 oz (164 g)
> Measured Weight: 5.8 oz (164 g)
> Other details: A multi-component tool with "Forward Assisted Spring
Technology"
>  
> INITIAL IMPRESSIONS
>  
> The Gerber Crucial F.A.S.T.  Multitool arrived in a rather plain package
without any of the "normal" paperwork.  The warranty was printed on the outside
of the box, but there were no operating or maintenance instructions (I guess
they figure that everyone knows how to use one or that nobody reads the product
literature).
> <<IMAGE GOES HERE. ALT TEXT = "IMAGE 1">>
> I haven't really figured out how many components the manufacturer is claiming,
but here is what I found:
>      - One knife blade
>      - Two screw drivers
>      - One bottle opener
>      - One pair of pliers with 3 sections
>           - on the tip, a needle nose
>           - in the middle, standard pliers
>           - at the base, a cutting section
>      - A belt clip
> The tool is a bit on the hefty side (a full ounce heavier than my 40 year old
swiss army knife) but has a nice feel and pliers!
>  
>
>  
> TRYING IT OUT
>  
> Being male, the first thing I had to do was to check out the blade.  The
safety lever didn't operate smoothly and gave me some initial challenges as I
wasn't sure if it was the spring loaded type or the on/off variety.  It turns
out that it is the on/off variety and I just needed to push it all the way
off.  The next challenge was to get my thumb to activate the "Forward Assist
Spring Technology" on the knife blade.  I wasn't too successful and ended up
testing the edge on the blade and, consistent with every other Gerber knife I
have owned, the blade is razor sharp!  All the other components operated
smoothly and presented a solid, confident feel!
>
>  
> TESTING STRATEGY
>  
> My intention is to replace my aging Swiss Army Knife (I bought it in Zermatt,
Switzerland nearly 40 years ago) so my testing strategy is to simply use this
tool like I would my trusty knife.  There are obvious differences between the
old and the new, but times have changed and so have the requirements for a field
tool.
>  
> SUMMARY
>  
> The Gerber Crucial F.A.S.T. appears to be a well built tool that has a nice
feel.  I hope to become more adept at using the F.A.ST. and actually get the
blade out safely with one hand.
> A special thanks to Gerber and BackpackGearTest.org for allowing me the
opportunity to test this tool.
>  
>  
>  
> This report was created with the BGT Report Generator.
> Copyright 2011.  All rights reserved.
>
> [Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
>





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

HTML version -
http://www.backpackgeartest.org/reviews/test/TESTS/LTR%20-%20Fits%20Light%20Runn\
er%20Socks%20-%20Jamie%20D/

Thank you!

------------------------------------- Long Term Report
-----------------------------------------------
-------------------------------------October 4th, 2011
----------------------------------------------

Collective Use and Field Conditions

In the final months of this test series I was able to wear the Fits Light Runner
Low-Cut Socks an additional 16 times for an overall total of 34 days.  Most of
these walks were through the same Sonoran Desert terrain as mentioned previously
in my Field Report.  In addition to those outings I made one more day trip
involving water and hiking through very overgrown high desert and riparian
terrain.   This half day outing was in Camp Verde, Arizona where I fished in the
Verde River.  I wore the Fits socks with a pair of Teva sandals for about six
hours.  Skies were clear with temperatures in the low 80's F (27 C).

Long Term Conclusions

There isn't anything I don't like about the Fits Light Runner Low-Cut Socks! 
They have performed well in both wet and dry conditions.  By well I mean they
have offered excellent cushioning from the little nasties that inevitably get
into my trainers or sandals.  They also stay put.  Some socks tend to slip
around a bit or completely lose their shape when they are wet, not so with the
Fits socks.  Whether my foot was very sweaty on the inside of the sock or
totally submerged in water they did not budge.  This was especially nice when
hiking out of an area where I had been standing or wading through water for
several hours.

Drying time for these socks was hard to assess because while wearing them, they
don't have that wet sock feel. Right out of the water I certainly had that
squishy sock feeling but after several minutes, even though I knew they were
still wet, I didn't notice that sensation any more.  Furthermore, I had far less
instances of pruned skin when using these socks for several hours in wet
conditions than I would have had in the socks I normally wear.

The Light Runner's have also completely retained their shape through many
launderings, where I must sheepishly admit, I have on a few occasions forgotten
to turn them inside out as the washing instructions specify.  The condition of
the fabric is remarkably new looking.  After more than twenty trips through the
washer and dryer, they are only ever so slightly fuzzy.  Unlike synthetics, the
wool shows no signs of pilling or degradation in thickness.

The odor control continues to be outstanding.  As promised in my Field Report I
purposely wore the socks over several consecutive days without rinsing or
washing to see how long it would take for them to stink.  I chose to do this in
late August over five of the hottest days of our summer (114-117 F / 63-65 C). 
They remained odor free until after the fourth day at which point they had a
mild musty smell.  After the fifth day, I felt they sufficiently odiferous that
I didn't want to wear them a sixth day.  The one caveat I think warrants
mentioning is that my feet were washed between each day of use.  That's
certainly different than the conditions I would experience over a multi-day
backpacking trip.

Final Thoughts

The Fits Light Runner Low-Cut Socks are a well-made product. I love that they
are made in the USA.  They work great in wet or dry hiking conditions and the
wool blend not only keeps odor at bay, it also retains its shape and loft.  I'm
glad Fits sent me two pairs to test because these have become a new favorite in
my sock collection.

My thanks for Backpackgeartest.org and Fits Sock Co. for giving me the
opportunity to be part of this test series.

-Jamie J. DeBenedetto –  2011

Well I cannot seem to get the photos to work.  So here's a revised format.
If this looks OK I will delete and re-upload.  Link to new page below.

Sorry for the extra work on this one.

http://www.backpackgeartest.org/reviews/test/TESTS/IR%20-%20Tilley%20Endurables%\
20Tec-Wool%20Cap%20-%20Mike%20Pearl/


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

Looks good to me


________________________________
From: Mike Pearl <mikepearl36@...>
To: BackpackGearTesters@yahoogroups.com
Cc: jerryaadams@...
Sent: Tuesday, October 4, 2011 5:49 PM
Subject: [backpackgeartesters] REVISED IR - Tilleys Wool Cap - Mike Pearl



 

Well I cannot seem to get the photos to work.  So here's a revised format.
If this looks OK I will delete and re-upload.  Link to new page below.

Sorry for the extra work on this one.

http://www.backpackgeartest.org/reviews/test/TESTS/IR%20-%20Tilley%20Endurables%\
20Tec-Wool%20Cap%20-%20Mike%20Pearl/

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




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

Mark,

Great job on the re-write.  I think readers will certainly gain something from
your report!

There are a few edits to review, mostly minor, then feel free to delete the test
file and upload to the site.  I look forward to seeing how is compares to your
former technology in a few months.

Steve

Here's the file link if it helps!

http://www.backpackgeartest.org/reviews/Knives/Multi-tools/Gerber%20Crucial%20F.\
A.S.T.%20Red%20Pocket%20Tool/



>> The Gerber Crucial F.A.S.T. Multitool arrived in a rather plain package
without any of the "normal" paperwork.

EDIT: Multi-tool

>> The tool is a bit on the hefty side (a full ounce heavier than my 40 year old
Swiss army knife) but has a nice feel and pliers!

EDIT: We need to add the metric conversions, so I suggest changing to commas so
the sentence isn't overwhelmed with parentheses…The tool is a bit on the hefty
side, a full ounce (28 g) heavier than my 40 year old Swiss army knife, but has
a nice feel and pliers!

>> It turns out that it is the on/off variety and I just needed to push it all
the way off.

Edit:  I had to re-read this twice to get the point.  I'd suggest:  ….and I just
need to push the mechanism all the way to the off position.

>> With any type of spring loaded devise, it is wise to have a safety lever or
catch to prevent accidental activation.

EDIT: device

>> In this case, accidentally activating the spring loaded blade (assuming a
safety devise was not present) could result in the blade being exposed
unintentionally.

EDIT: device

>> I hope to become more adept at using the F.A.ST. and actually get the blade
out safely with one hand.

EDIT:  F.A.S.T.


>> A special thanks to Gerber and BackpackGearTest.org for allowing me the
opportunity to test this tool.

EDIT:  It is customary to Remind the reader to check back in approximately two
months for a Field Report.


--- In backpackgeartesters@yahoogroups.com, Mark Thompson <markthompson242@...>
wrote:
>
>
>
>
> Steve,
> Thanks for your edits.  The text version is below and I have uploaded the
revised IR to the test section  http://tinyurl.com/IR-Gerber-FAST-MET.
>
> Best,
> Mark
>  
>
> GERBER CRUCIAL F.A.S.T.
> TEST SERIES BY MARK THOMPSON
> IR
> September 30, 2011
>  
> TESTER INFORMATION
>  
> NAME: Mark Thompson
> EMAIL: markthompson 242 at gmail dot com
> AGE: 47
> LOCATION: Parker, CO
> GENDER: M
> HEIGHT: 6' 0" (2.10 m)
> WEIGHT: 190 lb (86.20 kg)
>  
> Outdoor adventures started for me at an early age, my passions have grown to
include backpacking, rock climbing, hiking, hunting, fishing, canoeing, cycling,
skiing and snowshoeing.  Most of my adventures presently take place in
Colorado's amazing Rocky Mountains.  For trail hikes, my pack typically weighs
15 lbs/6.8 kg (summer/fall), 25 lbs/11.3 kg (winter/spring) and trail speed
usually ranges from 2.5 - 3.8 mph (4.0 - 6.1 kph) depending on elevation gain. 
For multi-night backpack trips, my pack weighs 40 - 45 lbs (18 - 20 kg) and my
trail speed drops to 1.5 - 3.0 mph (2.4 - 4.8 kph).
>  
>  
> INITIAL REPORT
>     
> PRODUCT INFORMATION & SPECIFICATIONS
>  
> Manufacturer: Gerber
> Year of Manufacture: 2011
> Manufacturer's Website: <<HYPERLINK GOES HERE - "http://www.gerbergear.com">>
> MSRP: US$58.00
> Listed Weight: 5.8 oz (164 g)
> Measured Weight: 5.8 oz (164 g)
> Other details:
> From the manufacturer's website, this is a multi-component tool with "Forward
Assisted Spring Technology" (F.A.S.T.).
> Components of the tool include:
> - Half Fine/Half Serrated Blade
> - Long Medium Flat Head Driver
> - Long Square Cross Driver
> - Bottle Opener
> - Needle-nose Pliers
> - Regular Pliers
> - Pinch Style Wire Cutters
> <<IMAGE GOES HERE. ALT TEXT = "IMAGE 2">>
> Photo courtesy of Gerber.
>  
> INITIAL IMPRESSIONS
>  
> The Gerber Crucial F.A.S.T.  Multitool arrived in a rather plain package
without any of the "normal" paperwork.  The warranty was printed on the outside
of the box, but there were no operating or maintenance instructions (I guess
they figure that everyone knows how to use one or that nobody reads the product
literature).
> The manufacturer lists the pliers as three separate tools; however, I would
attest that they are one tool with three different sections and specific uses. 
Although not clear to me as to how many components are being claimed, the site
does list the two different sections of the blade (fine and serrated).  Without
splitting hairs, I see four distinct tools:
>      - One knife blade (with fine and serrated sections)
>      - Two screw drivers
>      - One bottle opener
>      - One pair of pliers (with 3 sections)
> Most of the pliers I have run across have more than one section:
>      - Standard pliers have a flat section on the tip (for grasping flat
objects) and a rounded section in the middle (for items having a circular type
shape, i.e. bolts, etc.) and some have a scissor style cutting section at the
base (although I have never had any luck getting a decent cut from these)
>      -  Needle-nose pliers have a small flat section on the tip and pinch
style wire cutters at the base
> The Gerber Crucial F.A.S.T. pliers incorporate:
>           - Needle-nose pliers on the tip
>           - A round section in the middle similar to those found on
standard pliers
>           - Pinch style wire cutters at the base
> Although not listed as a component, the tool does have a side mounted belt
clip.
> <<IMAGE GOES HERE. ALT TEXT = "IMAGE 1">>
> The tool is a bit on the hefty side (a full ounce heavier than my 40 year old
Swiss army knife) but has a nice feel and pliers!
>  
>
>  
> TRYING IT OUT
>  
> Being male, the first thing I had to do was to check out the blade.  The
safety device didn't operate smoothly and gave me some initial challenges as I
wasn't sure if it was the spring loaded type or the on/off variety.  It turns
out that it is the on/off variety and I just needed to push it all the way
off.   After a few uses, the safety seems to be operating properly. The next
challenge was to get my thumb to activate the "Forward Assist Spring Technology"
on the knife blade.  F.A.S.T. represents a design which utilizes a spring to
assist in the opening of the knife.  With any type of spring loaded devise, it
is wise to have a safety lever or catch to prevent accidental activation.  In
this case, accidentally activating the spring loaded blade (assuming a safety
devise was not present) could result in the blade being exposed
unintentionally.  I wasn't too successful in activating F.A.S.T. and ended up
testing the edge on the blade with my
>  thumb.  Consistent with every other Gerber knife I have owned, the blade is
razor sharp!
> A firm grip was required to open the tool to expose the pliers.  The action
was smooth yet stiff, which I prefer as I sincerely do not like sloppy tools. 
Considering the rather small size of the tool and what I would consider an
average size adult male hand, it fit me well and comfortably.  The edges of the
frame and non-exposed tools were manufactured such that I didn't experience the
cutting or pinching I have with other multi-tools.
> Gaining access to the screw drivers and bottle opener was rather uneventful
and both implements have their own locking device which ensures they stay in the
fully extended position during use.  The locking mechanism was easy to release,
enabling a quick and easy closure.
>  
>  
> SUMMARY
>  
> My hope is that I will be able to replace my aging Swiss army knife (I bought
it in Zermatt, Switzerland nearly 40 years ago) with this Multitool.  It is not
that I dislike my trusty knife, it is quite the opposite, reaching near heirloom
status.  There are obvious differences between the old and the new, but times
have changed and so have the requirements for a field tool.   The Swiss army
knife has nearly twice the number of tools (even when using Gerber's count) but
the Gerber seems to be much more robust and appears to be able to stand up to
significantly more abuse.  The Gerber Crucial F.A.S.T. appears to be a well
built tool that has a nice feel.  I hope to become more adept at using the
F.A.ST. and actually get the blade out safely with one hand.
> A special thanks to Gerber and BackpackGearTest.org for allowing me the
opportunity to test this tool.
>  
>  
>  
> This report was created with the BGT Report Generator.
> Copyright 2011.  All rights reserved.
>  
>  
> ---------- Forwarded message ----------
> From: Mark Thompson <markthompson242@...>
> Date: Mon, Oct 3, 2011 at 6:48 PM
> Subject: Fw: [backpackgeartesters] EDIT: IR - Gerber Crucial F.A.S.T.
Multitool - Mark Thompson
> To: markthompson242@...
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
> --- On Mon, 10/3/11, ftroop94 <ftroop94@...> wrote:
>
>
> From: ftroop94 <ftroop94@...>
> Subject: [backpackgeartesters] EDIT: IR - Gerber Crucial F.A.S.T. Multitool -
Mark Thompson
> To: backpackgeartesters@yahoogroups.com
> Date: Monday, October 3, 2011, 3:01 AM
>
>
>  
>
>
>
>
> Mark,
>
> Good start on the Gerber IR. Since there are a few key edits including
changing some of the information around as listed below, I'd like you to post it
back to this site and the Test File before we finalized the edits and upload it
to the site.
>
> Thanks in advance,
>
> Steve
>
> >>Manufacturer's Website: http://www.gerbertools.com
> EDIT: Gerber's website is actually as follows: www.gerbergear.com
> The site you linked is an online merchant, whereas the latter is the actual
manufacturer's link. The site also bullet points the all the components. I'd
suggest adding them to the Products and Description section and citing the
source.
>
> >>I haven't really figured out how many components the manufacturer is
claiming, but here is what I found:
> - One knife blade
> - Two screw drivers
> - One bottle opener
> - One pair of pliers with 3 sections
> - on the tip, a needle nose
> - in the middle, standard pliers
> - at the base, a cutting section
> - A belt clip
> EDIT: See above. It appears the knife and serrated blade are considered
individual components per the Gerber site. If you want to note this `stretching
it' or `splitting hairs' in your opinion feel free to do so, but based on the
website info you need to correct the previous portion.
>
> I think you need add a little more information about the knife here in the
INITIAL IMPPRESSIONS category. In the TRYING IT OUT section you mention the
F.A.S.T. technology. It would be a good idea to go a little more into how what
this is and how it works in your opinions. You also mention the safety lever in
the ensuing section, but I'm a little confused about it. I would suggest
expanding on this in the I.I. section. You mention it is heavy. How does it feel
in the hand? Is it smooth, textured? Just a few ideas to share with the average
reader that wants to learn about the knife and whether or not it may be a good
fit for them!
>
> >>The tool is a bit on the hefty side (a full ounce heavier than my 40 year
old swiss army knife) but has a nice feel and pliers!
> EDIT: Swiss
>
> >>TESTING STRATEGY
> My intention is to replace my aging Swiss Army Knife (I bought it in Zermatt,
Switzerland nearly 40 years ago) so my testing strategy is to simply use this
tool like I would my trusty knife. There are obvious differences between the old
and the new, but times have changed and so have the requirements for a field
tool.
> EDIT: BGT no longer suggests using this in reports, as we go over it in the
application. Feel free to put some of this information into the summary.
>
> --- In backpackgeartesters@yahoogroups.com, Mark Thompson <markthompson242@>
wrote:
> >
> >
> >
> >  
> > Please find my IR at:  http://tinyurl.com/IR-FAST-MET
> >
> > and below for your editing pleasure.
> >  
> > Best,
> > Mark
> >  
> >
> > GERBER CRUCIAL F.A.S.T.
> > TEST SERIES BY MARK THOMPSON
> > IR
> > September 30, 2011
> >  
> > TESTER INFORMATION
> >  
> > NAME: Mark Thompson
> > EMAIL: markthompson 242 at gmail dot com
> > AGE: 47
> > LOCATION: Parker, CO
> > GENDER: M
> > HEIGHT: 6' 0" (2.10 m)
> > WEIGHT: 190 lb (86.20 kg)
> > SHOE SIZE (US/EUR): Men's 11/45-46
> >  
> > Outdoor adventures started for me at an early age, my passions have grown to
include backpacking, rock climbing, hiking, hunting, fishing, canoeing, cycling,
skiing and snowshoeing.  Most of my adventures presently take place in
Colorado's amazing Rocky Mountains.  For trail hikes, my pack typically weighs
15 lbs/6.8 kg (summer/fall), 25 lbs/11.3 kg (winter/spring) and trail speed
usually ranges from 2.5 - 3.8 mph (4.0 - 6.1 kph) depending on elevation gain. 
For multi-night backpack trips, my pack weighs 40 - 45 lbs (18 - 20 kg) and my
trail speed drops to 1.5 - 3.0 mph (2.4 - 4.8 kph).
> >  
> >  
> > INITIAL REPORT
> >     
> > PRODUCT INFORMATION & SPECIFICATIONS
> >  
> > Manufacturer: Gerber
> > Year of Manufacture: 2011
> > Manufacturer's Website: <<HYPERLINK GOES HERE -
"http://www.gerbertools.com">>
> > MSRP: US$75.00
> > Listed Weight: 5.8 oz (164 g)
> > Measured Weight: 5.8 oz (164 g)
> > Other details: A multi-component tool with "Forward Assisted Spring
Technology"
> >  
> > INITIAL IMPRESSIONS
> >  
> > The Gerber Crucial F.A.S.T.  Multitool arrived in a rather plain package
without any of the "normal" paperwork.  The warranty was printed on the outside
of the box, but there were no operating or maintenance instructions (I guess
they figure that everyone knows how to use one or that nobody reads the product
literature).
> > <<IMAGE GOES HERE. ALT TEXT = "IMAGE 1">>
> > I haven't really figured out how many components the manufacturer is
claiming, but here is what I found:
> >      - One knife blade
> >      - Two screw drivers
> >      - One bottle opener
> >      - One pair of pliers with 3 sections
> >           - on the tip, a needle nose
> >           - in the middle, standard pliers
> >           - at the base, a cutting section
> >      - A belt clip
> > The tool is a bit on the hefty side (a full ounce heavier than my 40 year
old swiss army knife) but has a nice feel and pliers!
> >  
> >
> >  
> > TRYING IT OUT
> >  
> > Being male, the first thing I had to do was to check out the blade.  The
safety lever didn't operate smoothly and gave me some initial challenges as I
wasn't sure if it was the spring loaded type or the on/off variety.  It turns
out that it is the on/off variety and I just needed to push it all the way
off.  The next challenge was to get my thumb to activate the "Forward Assist
Spring Technology" on the knife blade.  I wasn't too successful and ended up
testing the edge on the blade and, consistent with every other Gerber knife I
have owned, the blade is razor sharp!  All the other components operated
smoothly and presented a solid, confident feel!
> >
> >  
> > TESTING STRATEGY
> >  
> > My intention is to replace my aging Swiss Army Knife (I bought it in
Zermatt, Switzerland nearly 40 years ago) so my testing strategy is to simply
use this tool like I would my trusty knife.  There are obvious differences
between the old and the new, but times have changed and so have the requirements
for a field tool.
> >  
> > SUMMARY
> >  
> > The Gerber Crucial F.A.S.T. appears to be a well built tool that has a nice
feel.  I hope to become more adept at using the F.A.ST. and actually get the
blade out safely with one hand.
> > A special thanks to Gerber and BackpackGearTest.org for allowing me the
opportunity to test this tool.
> >  
> >  
> >  
> > This report was created with the BGT Report Generator.
> > Copyright 2011.  All rights reserved.
> >
> > [Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
> >
>
>
>
>
>
> [Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
>