Some Basic Global Positioning System Considerations

Global Positioning System (GPS) technology for hunting and outdoor navigation is a wonderful tool to use as primary navigation or as a layer of redundancy along with other navigation tools such as your general orientation/awareness, topographic paper maps, compass, and Lat/Long or UTM scales.

A GPS unit can naturally be used alone to navigate back to a particular starting point or to a pre-saved location without the use of other supporting equipment.  If you need to travel to a specific location on a map by first plotting and reading the position coordinates from the map and then using the GPS to navigate, then some supporting items, such as those previously mentioned, would be useful.  By referring to a map, I mean a hardcopy as opposed to a GPS loaded topographic map.

GPS users have varying levels of experience and needs but for many, using the more basic functions are all that is often needed.  These basic functions might consist of just initializing the GPS unit, saving and naming a waypoint, and of course using the go to feature.     

I have had the opportunity to utilize many different brands of both handheld as well as consol mounted marine GPS units.  There are many excellent brands available.  What can make some units standout over others are various features such as being waterproof, having electronic compasses, barometric altimeters, color displays, built-in basemaps, data card capability, and optional map software capability. 

Other areas for comparison of GPS units might include the number of waypoints, routes, and tracks allowed within the track log.  If all this sounds confusing, remember that many of these areas for comparison purposes are not necessarily the most important areas for concern. 

One of the most important variables when comparing GPS receivers is how well they receive and lock-on to satellites and then hold that lock when moving through tree cover, brush, or canyons.  In my opinion, the GPS unit that comes with an abundance of features is not much more useful than being a weight on a throw cord to keep your food away from bears if it can’t lock and hold satellites in difficult terrain.  When comparing units, note the number of channels that the unit can track simultaneously, accuracy is an important performance consideration, and external antennas are also a valuable option for units that will be used in situations where open sky is limited.

When I hunt with friends, we frequently compare our GPS units side by side while moving through dense foliage and heavy canopy to better understand which units are performing better than others.  All GPS units are not created equal in their ability to acquire and hold satellites.  When you start researching and comparing GPS units to replace an older model, make certain that you scrutinize product evaluations and note the models of units that lock and hold those satellites the best. 

I have replaced my GPS units many times over the years and have always been happy with the upgrades in performance or additional features gained with the replacement unit.   My current GPS is the Garmin GPSMAP®60CSX.  I have been very happy with this unit’s performance in the most difficult of terrain.  Eventually something will probably come along that I will like better but for now this is just what I need.  Remember to practice with your unit on your training hikes and it might also be helpful to bring along a copy of the units field guide as you learn all the features that are important to you.

Keeping Your Leather Hiking Boots in Good Condition

As most of my hunting friends and colleagues know, I like to hike regularly on mountain trails.  I try to log at least 15 miles per week rain or shine with a weighted pack.  This gives me a chance to fiddle with old equipment or test new equipment considerations while maintaining some level of adequate fitness. 

I was recently asked by a friend what products I use to keep my GORE-TEX® lined leather boots looking so good with the regular trail use my boots encounter.  After I fired off my response, it caused me to think about all the products I have used over the years and how long it took me to find a product that fulfilled my current needs.

Like most of you, I have tried many different types of leather care products.  The journey for me has included neatsfoot oil, mink oil, Sno-Seal, Montana Pitch-Blend, Bee Seal Plus and many others.  Some have worked better than others for my intended applications.

What I am using today is the Obenauf’s line of leather care products.  I first learned of the Obenauf’s products through my fire department friends at the then California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CDF), now known as CAL FIRE.  Many of my buddies were telling me how well Obenauf’s worked and that I should give it a try.  I did, and I liked it.



Pre-wash



Post-wash

After my hikes I typically grab the hose and rinse the mud off the soles and leather.  If mud is caked on it gets hit with a soft nylon brush as well.  Every few weeks I apply Obenauf’s Leather Oil.  This helps to preserve and protect the leather.  It is very easy to apply.   I also occasionally use the Obenauf’s Heavy Duty Leather Preservative (LP).  This is also easy to apply.



Leather Oil Application



The Obenauf’s products I use do not contain any petroleums, silicones, neatsfoot, or solvents.  They do contain natural oils which are suspended in Beeswax and Propolis according to the manufacturer.   The Propolis apparently resists mildew and bacteria.  When combined with Beeswax it repels water better and longer.



Leather Oil Prior to Being Absorbed





Oil Absorbed and 2nd Coat of LP Applied and Partially Absorbed

 To date, I have not experienced any problems associated with my GORE-TEX® lined leather boots while using these products.  If you are still looking for leather care products and have not given the Obenauf’s a try perhaps it will be just what you have been looking for all along.  Visit the Obenauf’s website and see if they have a product for your specific application.

Warning About Trophy Import Seizures in the US

This article was originally posted on the HuntingReport dot com.  http://bit.ly/eUPdxG

Keeping Dry in the Rain: Restoring the DWR of Rain Gear Fabric

Most of us have come to know and love our breathable rain gear.  I remember using GORE-TEX® equipment for the first time in 1985 on Kodiak Island, Alaska.  Staying warm, both then and know, is all about staying dry and being properly layered.

A GORE-TEX® membrane (or other manufactures’ waterproof membrane) in your clothing does not guarantee that you will stay dry.  Back when I first started using protective breathable rain wear I did not fully understand the importance of maintaining the water repellency of the fabric to which the waterproof membrane is bonded.  

Over time, outer fabric wear from abrasion, exposure to dirt, sweat and other contaminants reduces the performance of GORE-TEX® and other membranes.  This occurs as the Durable Water Repellant (DWR) treatment on the outer fabric surface degrades.   When this occurs, the outer fabric can easily become saturated and a condition known as “wet out” can occur making you feel damp.  This may make your garment appear as though it is leaking. 

If you want your raingear to work to its optimum potential a few easy maintenance steps are all that is required to avoid this condition.  Remember to follow the manufacturer’s care instructions that came with your garment.  In the case of GORE-TEX® products, you can get on the internet and visit their product care center for additional information about GORE-TEX® care. 

The first step is proper washing of your garment.  As mentioned above, it is absolutely necessary to keep your GORE-TEX® product clean to maintain performance.  GORE-TEX® recommends warm water (104 degrees) with a powder or liquid detergent.  No fabric softener or chlorine bleach should be used.  The garment must be thoroughly rinsed to remove all detergent residues.  Some people recommend using a performance wash specifically developed to clean water repellant membrane garments.

Next, you will want to dry your garment in the dryer on the warm setting.  Always follow the garment manufacturer’s care instructions.  The heat from the dryer will reactivate the DWR treatment on the fabric. You can test the DWR’s performance after drying by putting a few drops of water on the outside of the fabric.  You should see the water bead up and roll off the fabric.  This is an indication the DWR has been restored.  If the water does not bead off but soaks into the fabric, the DWR treatment of your garment must be restored.   Some also recommend using an iron to restore the DWR of the fabric.  I personally prefer to use the dryer.

 

The final step, if needed, is to apply a restorative DWR treatment to the fabric.  Gore recommends a topical treatment as opposed to a wash-in treatment as those could affect the breathability of the garment you are treating.   Follow directions on the DWR treatment product label.  These will likely require running the garment back through a warm dryer after application.

What happens if you damage your rain gear?  In the case of GORE-TEX®, if you puncture or tear your garment you can use a GORE-TEX® Fabric Repair Kit to restore temporary protection from leakage of water into the garment. Permanent repairs can be made through a certified GORE-TEX® product repair center.

Take care of your gear and it will take care of you!  Now go out there and start training in the rain.  I will see you out on the trail.  Happy hiking and hunting!

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Pre-hunt Preparation: Some Hidden Benefits of Fitness Preparation

As many of my close friends and hunting associates know, I tend to put a great deal of energy toward preparing for my hunts.  Some might call it an obsession but I like to think of it as working to eliminate some variables and being better prepared.  This includes general planning, research, scouting, equipment preparation, and fitness considerations.   After all, planning and preparing for the hunt is a very exciting component of the total experience!

Some hunts admittedly require very little preplanning while others require a bit more.  Recently, I have been mentally juggling plans for a few upcoming hunts that have been requiring some consideration and preparation beyond the routine.  These include a trip to Tanzania for buffalo in 2011, a do-it-yourself hunt for tahr and chamois in New Zealand during 2012, and some initial planning for elephant hunting in 2013.

A friend recently was commenting on my Tanzania preparation.   This has included copious amounts of bi-weekly double rifle practice over the past few months which will continue until July 2011.  I have also been working to break-in some lightweight boots and getting a second double rifle’s issues squared away with the help of my gunsmith for the same trip. 

During the same conversation a discussion about my anticipated mountain rifle build for the New Zealand South Island hunt and my day and night mountain hiking regime was on the menu.  The need for a light weight rifle on a DIY hunt in New Zealand is self-explanatory.  Fitness preparation such as hiking holds benefits that are not always immediately considered.

There are several added benefits to be gained through the pre-hunt fitness component besides strengthening overall fitness.  For me it is also a great opportunity to test items such as my general equipment, accessories, and clothing choices.   

A great deal of hunting is mental so the more prepared you are for the adventure the better!  I like to begin my preparations well in advance so I can utilize and test equipment in environmental conditions as close to what I might expect to experience at my destination.  Using New Zealand as an example, testing my equipment considerations and options in Northern California during November, December, and January is very helpful.

For me, there is no better test than to hike late afternoon and at night in the rain utilizing my headlamp, with a full pack load, supporting equipment, and selected clothing to see if my choices are close to the mark.  Having enough time to test and modify equipment selections is a component of my pre-hunt planning. 

Here are just a few things that you might want to wring-out during your pre-hunt fitness regime:

-Boot and Sock Selection

-Thermal Bottom Weight Preferences for both Ascent and Hunting

-Pant Selections for both Ascent and Hunting

-Thermal Top Weight and Style for both Ascent and Hunting (consider venting options)

-Shirt Considerations

-Vest Considerations

-Additional Insulation Layering Options

-Jacket Options

-Head Cover Considerations

-Glove Options

-Rain Gear Selection

-Headlamp Functionality and Effectiveness in Inclement Weather

-Backpack Selection

-Water Bladder Performance and Capacity

-Familiarization with Hiking Poles

-GPS and Satellite Phone Refresher

For those interested in testing additional equipment and skills during their fitness regime it is easy to throw in your tent or other items just for grins.  Taking the time to pitch your tent at the end of one of your mountain hikes at night in the rain with your headlamp is a great way to build confidence. 

You might discover the need to revise how you set-up your pack so you can get to that tent without your sleeping bag or other items possibly getting wet.  After setting up the tent perhaps throwing up the backpacking stove and making a hot cup of tea would be a consideration before breaking down the tent and heading home.

Testing equipment during your exercise regime could help to make you better prepared for those uncomfortable or unexpected situations that can and do occur.