Blog Entries tagged 'Backpack'

Jason - A matched set of Sheds

amaro_jason@hotmail.com — Thu, 20 Nov 2008 02:00:00 +0100

Hey Guys....

�� I am still burning the boot leather scouting out new areas for Coues deer.� I have been hanging cameras in different types of areas like creek bottoms and areas where I have seen scrapes in the past.� Unfortunately, my success has been pretty limited as far as trail cam pictures have gone but I feel good about my effort because at least I know where the deer aren't. :)� Last year I hung camera's at water sources at I was able to find deer but once the rut kicked everything changes and I was left chasing scrapes.� This year my goal was to stay off the water sources and learn new areas.� As far as my physical scouting goes it has been pretty good.� I have found several really nice sheds and I have glassed up or jumped several Coues deer does.� I have found a pocket of deer that I am going to key in on.� The big challege now is to wait until a few weeks before the hunt and cover some country looking for scrapes.� Once I find a scrape I need to hang a trail cam on it and see what happens.

On one of my last scouting trips I found this matched set.� They go about 75 inches which doesn't sound that great but remember P&Y for Coues deer is 65 inches..

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Take Care

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Matt-MSR Hyperflow Gear Review

matthewblog@bowcast.com — Sun, 02 Nov 2008 01:00:00 +0100

�

Gear Review- MSR Hyperflow

I will be doing a number of gear reviews in my blog and this one�covers the MSR Hyperflow water filter.� I�will be posting a few more gear reviews in the coming months as I�evaluate some of the new gear I used this season.�

Growing up I was introduced to backpacking at a young age.� We would filter our water from the alpine lakes for cooking but drink straight from the mountain springs and small streams.� I never once�got sick�and up until this year I have never carried a water filter on a backcountry hunt.� I�hunt near streams or springs that have a very low risk of containing harmful amounts of protozoa, bacteria, and viruses; however, it only takes one bad water source and�I could have gotten sick from any of these�disease-causing microorganisms. �I consider myself lucky that I have never gotten sick.� Weight and space were also a factor as I didn't want to pack the extra weight of my backpacking water filter, the MSR Miniworks EX, and I always carried backup iodine water tablets in my hunting pack.

This year I started hunting some new areas and I didn't want to worry about the water quality or where I would have to get it from.� I knew MSR was coming out with a new lightweight filter so I waited until they hit the shelf and purchased one after looking it over in the store and talking to the sales representative who had used one.� I discussed with him the concerns I had of clogging and durability which were the main complaints I had been reading about online and he reassured me that I would have no problems.

My first weekend of archery season this year was a 3 day solo bivy hunt where I put the Hyperflow to the test to see if it truly deserved a place in my Badlands.� I evaluated it on size and weight, ease of use, flow rate, and clogging.� I will discuss each of these factors and rate them on a scale of 1-10.

This filter is light on the scale and I gave it a 9 on size and weight.� This filter is the size of a small bike pump at 7 x 3.5 inches and weighs only 7.4 ounces!� I found it to be very easy to pack in the little pouch provided and it was not an item that took up unnecessary space in my Badlands.� This is one of the biggest benefits as size and ounces are critical when trying to keep your pack under 35 pounds for a 3 day hunt like I was.� To keep the weight down more I eliminated the velcro straps on top of the pre-filter and don't pack the quick connect bottle adapter.� After using this filter on a few hunts I don't ever think the Miniworks EX will hit the trail again as it is 16 ounces.

To use this filter is quick and painless so I pumped out a 9.5 on ease of use.� There is a clean side cover for the outlet spout which is to protect the spout from contamination.� After quickly removing the cover, you can either use the quick connect bottle adapter or pump right into your hydration bag like I did.� Then simply place the pre-filter into the cleanest water available and start pumping like you would with a bike pump.�

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Clean side outlet is what I am holding in my hand.

I used a two inch piece of the tubing and the Camelback Hydrolink filter adapter which allows you to quickly remove your bite valve and connect the filter.� After bleeding the line, I could simply pump my hydration bag full without the hassle of unpacking and then repacking.� Since my hydration bag is one of the heaviest items in my pack I keep it against my back and in the main compartment.� Before I had this filter, I had to unpack everything that was organized around my hydration bag, pull it completely out of my pack, and then try to fill it up in a spring or creek without filling it full of pine needles and leaves from the brush or water.� Now I simply attach the filter to my hydration line, keep my backpack on, fill it up to the desired level, reattach the bite valve, and continue hunting.

If you don't have a filter adapter then you can also use the quick connect bottle adapter.� This connects to the filter on the clean side and screws on most hydration bags or Nalgene type water bottles.

This filter doesn't drip it rips so I gave it a 9.5 in flow rate.� It comes with a pre-filter that floats on the water and has a large amount of surface area that provides an ample water supply.� This is evident by the approximate 20 strokes per liter giving it an approximate�3 liter per minute flow rate.� I would count my pumps so that I could estimate how much water I had transported to my hydration bag and know when to stop.� In comparison the Miniworks EX has a 1 liter per minute flow rate, a substantial difference.� This pre-filter will stop the larger debris from clogging the main hollow fiber filter and, just as manufactures always advise, I would try to place it in the cleanest water available to maximize the life of the filter.

�

One thing I did was to remove the velcro straps that are on top of the pre-filter as I didn't see a need for them and they kept it from sitting flat on the water which is important so you don't suck in air while filtering.� The only issue I had while filtering the first few times was that I would occasionally pull the pre-filter off the water and suck in a little air.� To keep from doing this I would put it in a calmer portion of the creek so it wouldn't float away and then tilt up at an angle because it was at the end of its line.� Also I moved the part of the pump with my hydration line and kept the inflow line as steady as possible.�

I haven't had this filter clog or slow down once so I gave it a 9.� I didn't give it a 10 because I'm sure I could have clogged it in some of the muddy waters of the elk wallows I saw this year but I don't know anyone who would filter water from a mud bath pit.� Also the water that I filter from is usually very clean and clear so I'm sure there are some areas that have murky water with lots of sand or silt that could cause a clog or reduction in flow for this or any other filter.� I have never had any issues with a clogged filter and I always try to find the cleanest water source to prevent these types of issues.� If the filter does clog there is a quick backflush process that should clear it.� To maintain the filter and flow�MSR recommends backflushing every 8 liters.� Pick your puddles wisely if you have to use them as a last resort.

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The Hyperflow retails for around $100 and is effective against protozoa and bacteria.� It will not filter out taste like a ceramic filter will, such as the Miniworks EX, or chemicals/toxins.� In the areas I hunt the water tastes great but if this is a concern just take a pack of Wilderness Athlete Hydrate and Recover to mix in and this filter will work great for you.� Overall I found this to be a perfect backcountry hunting filter that I will now be carrying in my pack until something new comes out that tops its effectiveness and size.� For more information go to http://www.msrgear.com/watertreatment/hyperflow.asp and learn more about this product.

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My BLACKHAWK! Blacktimber Pack Review

amaro_jason@hotmail.com — Fri, 26 Sep 2008 02:00:00 +0100

One of the reason Bowcast was started was to give honest and comprehensive products reviews.� If you pickup any magazine or watch any tv show you will see so called reviews.� The only problem is that many of the people reviewing the products are sponsored by the company.� When I see this I always question the review.�

I have been down the sponsorship or pro-staff road a few times and luckily I have been able to to stay independent.� This affords me the freedom to call it like I see it.� I don't have to help sell a product.

As many of you know I have been reviewing a BLACKHAWK! Blacktimber pack for a few months.� My goal was to really give it a workout.� I didn't want to do one of those reviews that you see in the magazine that just list the specs.� I wanted to be able to say that I really tested a pack and want to feel comfortable with the review that the pack EARNED.

�

I guess I should probably give you guys some of my background as far as packs go.� For the most part I have been using two different Badlands Packs, the 2200 and the 4500 Badlands. Before the review the 2200 was my everyday pack.� �

How did I come to review the Blacktimber?� Well, I saw an advertisement that they had in a magazine and I was intrigued by there design.� So I kept my eyes out for a good deal.� After a few months I found a good deal on a Blacktimber pack, the only problem is that it was digital. No big deal. � For the record, the pack comes in Max-1, Mossy Oak and Digital.

What was my first impression of the pack? � Wow, it was light and the hydration bladder had some neat features.� The bladder hangs from the top of the pack so it doesn't bunch up on the bottom of the pack and the bite value had an optional water filter. �

As far as fit.� It fit really well.� They use this material that they call SpaceNet on the back panel, the shoulder straps and the waist belt, the material is hard to describe; it is kind of like a sponge that keeps air circulating around all the points of contact.� It is also supposed to wick away sweat.� I don't know all the details on the SpaceNet material but I like it. �

Here is a picture of the material.

�

The hip belt and shoulder straps are adequate.� It should be pointed out that the chest strap connects on the right� shoulder, so if you are a right handed archer they will never be a chance of the chest strap buckles getting caught in your bowstring. � The load lifters are fine but this pack isn't designed to carry a lot of weight, I will get more into that a little later. ��

The pack has 4 main storage compartments, for me that is more than enough.� I was able to carry all of my gear on my recent elk and antelope hunts.� The pack has a Shov-it pocket which I think was designed for clothes but I was able to use it to carry my elk decoy.� It worked out really nicely because I could pull the decoy out without removing the pack and messing with zipper.��

The pack also has what they call the S.T.R.I.K.E system sewn into the pack which allows you to attach accessory pouches just about anywhere you want.� I got two; one I used for my rangefinder and the other I used for my GPS and SPOT.� Because I have short arms and a long waist :) I liked the flexibility of adding the pouches where I can get to them.

If you are reading this BLACKHAWK!, I really wish that you would create some sort of accessory that would allow me to attach a one piece quiver to the pack using the S.T.R.I.K.E. system.� I ended up modifying my pack a little by tying in a Cat Quiver on the back of the pack.� It worked out really nicely.

Below is what my pack looks while it is loaded.

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Okay, so that is all the techie stuff, how did it perform in the field?� Well, I have been using for scouting and hunting and it has been great.� This pack got me thinking that I have been "over-packed", by that I mean I been carry empty cubic inches on my back.� If you don't need a 4500 cubic inch beast why carry all the extra weight?� This pack is 2557 cubic inches and I am able to easily get all of my stuff in the pack and you guys know, I always carry a ton of stuff on my back.� I will say that this pack ISN'T a Meat Hauler, it was designed� to carry essential gear in a nice, compact light fashion.

So the big question, would I recommend this pack?� Before I say yes or no, I need to stress that packs are like shoes, you need to try the pack on with weight in it to see if it fits your body type. ��

And the answer to the question is, YES.� If you are looking for a smaller pack that you could use while scouting or even hunting the Blacktimber is a great pack. �

You can go to their website by clicking� HERE.

J-�

Below is the stats from the website

BlackTimber 100oz Hydration/Hunting Pack

Big capacity meets big hydration. the BlackTimber� was designed for extreme performance with the serious hunter in mind. Featuring over-sized, easy-to use compartments with 2,557 cubic inches of cargo space and 100 oz. of easily accessible liquid, it�s ready for days of action in the back country. Comes complete with BlackHawk�s S.T.R.I.K.E.� system sewn-in for modular attachments, a SpaceNet molded back panel that wicks away sweat and a reinforced waist belt with additional attachment points.Extremely deep Shov-It� pocket is designed to carry bulky items, including dressed meat and antlers, while the pull-out, 244-square-inch blaze orange panel offers additional safety in the field.

NOTE: The blaze orange panel is NOT available on the ARPAT color (73PA04AU)��

� Padded shoulder straps are made with non-slip HawkTex to
�� help keep your rifle sling in place
� Bungee retention system allows for the storing of extra
�� layers of clothes
� Poly-frame sheet with aluminum reinforcement
� Robust waist belt evenly distributes weight and is removable
� Emergency whistle attached to front harness strap
� External shooting sticks/tripod storage on both sides of pack
� Deep expandable center section with pull-out orange panel
�� for safety
� Drink system protected by Microban� antimicrobial
�� technology
� 360-degree bite valve and patent pending quick disconnect
�� system
� BlackHawk bite valve holster keeps bite valve clean and out
�� of the way
� Compatible with BlackHawk in-line water filtration system

Hydration Capacity: 100 oz./ 3 liters
Pack Dimensions:� 21.5H x 10�W x 8�D
Pack Total Cubes:� 2,557� w/stuff pocket

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Time Tested Bivouac Gear

south@eastmans.com — Thu, 19 Jun 2008 07:35:20 +0100

I’ve gotten a handful of requests to post my gear list. Over the last decade or so, I’ve tested a bunch of backpacking and bowhunting gear in the backcountry. Some of it has stayed, much of it has not. I continue to try out every new gadget on the market that seems like it could improve my equipment list or my experience in the outdoors. What I’ve got in my pack works well for me and I feel is some of the best stuff out there on the market.

Tent:

For the last couple of years, when I’ve hunted out of a [[tent]], I’ve used the MSR Hubba. This year, I likely use the same tent on my early season hunts. I also have the HP, which I’ll use later in the year. The original Hubba has more netting in the doors, allowing better ventilation in warmer weather (see a test of the Hubba HP in the last issue of EBJ). A set of Fibraplex [[carbon]] poles will lighten my load by about 6 ounces over the standard issue aluminum ones. The late season; I have a hunt in [[North Dakota]] in October, will see the HP in use. A little warmer with the solid panel doors, it’ll resist the cold winds better too.

Sleeping bag:

Early season: I like the Marmot Hydrogen. Rated at 30 degrees, this 1 lb, 5oz bag is killer. I bought a smaller stuff sack than came with the bag from the factory. It now stuffs down smaller than a nerf football. If you are going into a hunt that you may run into early snow, but also will face warmer temps, bring along a pair of synthetic or wool thermals to boost the temp rating. For the later season I use a Marmot Helium. This 15 degree bag weighs only about 2 lbs.

Sleeping pad:

I’ve been using a Therma-rest Prolite 3 full length since they came out. I bought the stuff sack for the short version and with careful, tight rolling, it will fit in the smaller package. I usually have problems bulking out with my loads, so everywhere I can save a few cubic inches, I’m really happy to. I’m really happy with the pad, but there are a few things you need to know if you are going to use it. Never sleep on the bare ground with it. The material is really thin and even a pine needle can puncture it if it pokes it at the wrong angle. Carry a patch kit with you. The patch kit is hot melt glue that is heated in boiling water, so if you aren’t carrying a stove, you won’t be able to do a field repair to fix a leak. I’ve never had a valve go out on me, but I have repaired hole in the field before.

I might use the Z-rest this year, but the bulk of it usually keeps this one on the shelf at home. The great thing about this one is that you can use it for a glassing pad, or unroll it mid-day, flop it on the ground and take a nap.

Stoves:

If you are just boiling water to rehydrate meals, the Jet Boil can’t be beat. It boils water faster, using less fuel that the other stove out there. I can do an 8 day bivy hunt with one of the small fuel canisters that fits inside of the Jet Boil cup, boil water for oatmeal, hot choc and freeze dried, on one fuel canister!

If you are wanting to cook up some back strap, you could probably get a frying pan to balance on the top of the burner, but you’d probably be better off going with a MSR Pocket Rocket or a Brunton [[stove]].

Water Purification:

This depends entirely on where I am hunting. If I know I’ll be getting my water out of clear running streams the whole hunt, I’ll either pack [[iodine]] or [[bleach]] in a visine bottle. Two drops of bleach per liter out of the reclaimed visine bottle, 15 minutes and you have the least expensive way to treat water I’m aware of. I learned this one from the Pacific Crest Trail through hikers. Some of these guys are keeping their pack weights down to 12 lbs or less without food and water!

If I have to pull water out of a spring, pond or murky stream, I’ll use a filter. I always look for a [[water filter]] that can be cleaned in the field. I had a filter clog on me in [[Colorado]] with a replaceable paper filter cartridge (a Pur Hiker, now the Katadyn) after only a couple of gallons were run through it. The water was pretty murky pond water, but those were the conditions I was facing for my water source for 10 days. I didn’t have a replacement cartridge, so dealing with water for the balance of the week was a drag. More recently, I had my MSR Miniworks filter clog on me. That one has a field serviceable filter, but it had reached the end of its lifespan. I knew it was getting bad when I left on the trip, but thought I could get one more week out of it. Next time I’ll be smarter.

This year, I’ll be using the MSR Hyperflow. I just ordered it online from REI, it has been impossible to get locally. This filter can be back flushed in the field- no more dead filters! It pumps like a fire engine at 2.75 liters per minute and weighs less than a half pound. If you are unsure of how you’ll be getting your water, this is the method I’d recommend. This is probably the single new item I’m most excited about testing out this fall.

Backpack:

I plan on using the Badlands 4500 as well as the new pack from Sitka when it comes out. The Badlands worked out great for me last year, just about the right size for the gear I pack with me. I love the large side pouches for the spotting scope and tripod.

Optics:

I’m going to try out some of the glass from Nikon this year. I’ve been hearing rave reviews about their top end binos. I plan on using them for most of my stuff, with one hunt thrown in the middle using my Swarovski’s. That will give me a good opportunity to compare the two after using the Nikons for a while.

Tripod:

I’ve been using the Outdoorsman with a Jim White head. Hard to beat that combo, though I’d like to find something a little lighter. I don’t know if you can go much smaller in tripod size and still support a full size spotting scope. The obvious route would be to look at a carbon fiber tripod, but the weight savings isn’t as much as I expected when you are comparing like sizes.

Game bags:

No brainer, Alaskan Game Bags. You can’t beat these for weight, bulk and their quite durable. I carry one when I’m hunting [[mule deer]] or four when I hunting elk. I can fit a whole boned out buck into one bag.

Misc:

I’ve been using a Black Diamond [[headlamp]] for years now, but have just got a Petzl Tikka with an extra lense that is red. I expect to get a brighter light with newer technology and the red lense should work well when I’m hiking up to glassing spots before first light.

I always carry an extra pair of socks for each day I’m going to be away from base camp. I like to try to take care of my feet as best as I can. You certainly could just carry one extra pair and wash the dirty one, hanging them off of the back of your pack to dry. I don’t end up at water consistently enough daily to count on that option.

I carry a pair of fleece gloves and a fleece hat for windy mornings while I’m glassing. I also carry a stretchy skull cap to wear on nights when it gets cold.

For bathing, I like to use Field Bath towels. They are pre-moistened and substantially thicker than baby wipes. I figure on two per day. You can leave them out and let the moisture in them evaporate, rehydrate them when you need them if you are concerned with the extra weight. You’ll definitely appreciate them at the end of the day.

When I was at the Outdoor Retailer’s show, I came across another item that I’ve added to my pack, the Gorilla Pod. It is an ultra small [[tripod ]]that has flexible legs. It is available in different sizes to hold cameras of different weights. It is much more versitle than a standard tripod, while weighing just a few ounces. The flexible legs will wrap around a tree branch or will set up on top of a round rock. This will be a great addition if you don’t carry a tripod or want to take self timer pictures of yourself glassing while using your tripod to hold your scope

South

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