Outdoor Survival Info

Archive for the ‘Equipment’ Category

I’ve decided to put a scope on my beloved Marlin 336 .30-30 lever action rifle. It’s such a great rifle, but I want to improve my chances of filling the freezer with venison this year. Here’s how I did it.

First off, Marlin 336 comes drilled and tapped for a scope. But there isn’t a base and there aren’t any rings. So you’ll have to buy them if you want to mount a scope. And, of course, you’ll have to buy a scope, too.

First, locate the screws:

The screws are small, so you’ll need a small flat-head screwdriver. I used the largest one in my little jewelry-type driver set.

Here are the removed screws:

Now we can see the mount points clearly. They go all the way through the receiver. If you are going to use some type of screw adhesive, do it very carefully! You don’t want to get any in the action.

Here is the two-part base I’m going to mount on the rifle. It’s a Weaver base made for the Marlin 336 and similar rifles. The package lists all compatible rifles on the back. Here are the mounts:

I just used a standard small-ish flat-head driver to mount the bases. It was super easy. They line up just right, and I can still use the iron sights if there is no scope mounted. Here are a couple of shots of the completed job:

and

The job took only a couple of minutes total, and that includes stopping to take some photos. Now I just need to decide what scope I want on it. I’m on a budget this year, so it will have to be an inexpensive model. I guess it’s back to Wal-Mart after I get paid again!

Maxpedition gear is now available at BDR Gear. Here’s the page with all the current products: Maxpedition Gear. Based on all of the reports and reviews I’ve seen so far, the Maxpedition line is top notch. I’m talking gear suited for both every day use and while working in hostile conditions.

I’ve been carrying all of my daily gear around in a messenger bag, but after seen the Maxpedition gear, I think I’m going to have to upgrade. Even though it’s big, I’m going to go for the Maxpedition Colossus Versipack. That should have plenty of room to carry my gear…and then some.

Sure, I’ll have a man-purse, also known as a “murse,” but who cares? I usually have to wear something with cargo pockets every day, just so I can fit all of my gear. If I start carrying around a gear bag everywhere, then that means less junk for my pockets. And that means two things: 1) I’ll be more comfortable while carrying my gear around, and 2) I’ll have more style choices when choosing my pants.

On top of all that, this bag will probably make a really good get home bag. Well, I guess that’s what it will end up being if I use it as an EDC (every day carry) bag.

When I get it, I’ll take some pictures and write up a review. I might even get adventurous and video the review for you. In the mean time, head over there and take a look. Who knows… you might find something you’ve gotta have.

Survival Kits. Bug out bags. Disaster prep kits. They are all the same basic thing: Gear you may need in an emergency. A large disaster will likely require all of the gear in your kit, but other times you just may need one or two things. Being prepared is the smart thing to do.

A survival kit is basically a bag (usually a backpack) that is filled with emergency items. Some of these items would be food, water, first aid supplies, a knife, a poncho, and similar. The actual contents of any emergency kit should meet your particular needs, but there are some staple items common among all emergency gear kits — which would be what I named a moment ago.

At the very least, each person should have a bag packed and ready to go that contains food, water, and something for warmth. Fortunately, there are some pre-made solutions out there — emergency gear packs with the gear already packed in them. All you do is add some customizations to meet your particular needs, and you’re good to go. There’s no need to spend a bundle of money and a lot of time buying all the gear individually, unless you just want to.

Emergencies happen all the time, but not everywhere at the same time. Even something as simple as a tornado warning is cause enough to grab your gear bag. The world doesn’t have to be at war for you to be ready to take care of yourself if you ever need to.

You can see some ready-made survival kits at BDR Gear.

Tips For Buying a Rifle Scope
By Brady Ritsema

When you are considering buying a rifle scope, you’ll soon come up against more choices than you know what to do with! If you last bought a scope several years ago, or you have never owned one at all, the variety of scopes can leave you a little bit concerned about which one is the best choice for you. When you are thinking about getting a scope, you’ll find that your choice can be much simpler if you only keep a few things in mind. Remember that the best scope is not necessarily the most expensive one; it will be the one that suits you the best.

The first thing to think about is what conditions you will be hunting in. Some people only hunt in fair to good conditions, while others take a real pride in going out regardless of the weather. Take some time to read the fine print, and figure out what conditions your rifle scope can deal with. For instance, you’ll find that Bushnell rifle scopes are known for their water-repellent lens coating, making them a natural choice in rain, sleet or even snow.

Also, you’ll find that you will want a rifle scope where the size of the forward lens, also known as the objective lens is one that is comfortable for you. The larger this lens is, the brighter the view will be. If you often hunt in low-light conditions, like daybreak or dusk, you’ll find that the more clearly it will show you your target. Make sure that you test out these lenses if at all possible. Keep in mind that there is a drawback in that the larger the forward lens is, the further forward it will need to be mounted on the gun and the less natural your sighting process will be. Make sure that you are comfortable with the amount of adjustment that you need to do.

You’ll also find that some lenses are known for their all-purpose durability. For instance, the Nikon rifle scopes are known for their endurance no matter what the condition, and many have praised it’s crystal clear edge-to-edge view. You’ll find that these lenses have also be coated with several layers of anti-reflective compounds, thus improving your vision will preventing you from spooking your prey with a tell-tale glint.

As always, whenever you are thinking about purchasing something that carries an impressive price tag, remember that you will want to get a warranty with it. No matter how reliable the company, and Bushnell rifescopes and Nikon riflescopes are known for their reliability, it is still possible that there is a problem with the product. If you have a warranty, you can make sure that you recoup your money and get a replacement if there is some sort of factory defect. Similarly, make sure that the rifle scope has a great deal of adjustment available to you; some hunters will refuse to buy rifle scopes that don’t have at least 60 inches of adjustment available.

Take some time to figure out what you really need from your rifle scope, and then look around and make sure that you get it it!

Find Bushnell Riflescopes and Nikon Riflescopes along with a large selection of Binoculars at http://scopesbinoculars.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Brady_Ritsema
Tips For Buying a Rifle Scope

What to Look For When Purchasing a Rifle Scope
By Joshua McNiel

Here, you will be introduced to what to look for when purchasing a rifle scope. As a result of my experience in law enforcement in the past, I can honestly say that this device is essential if you are working the streets as an officer, other areas in the criminal justice field, or working in the capacity of military positions. Many individuals who engage in target practice, or engage in hunting may also find that this is an essential element to the standard rifle that is used.

As you observe your rifle, you will notice that it has many unique characteristics. In addition to this, rifles all shoot in their own way. The basis of the actual firing characteristics is dependent upon many different factors.

First, the grains of the ammunition that you use will play a large role in the way that the weapon fires and the accuracy of that weapon. Secondly, the manufacturer of the ammunition may affect this function. The length and width of the rifle, as well as the weight of the gun will also play a role in determining the overall accuracy of the weapon. Having a rifle scope is an effective strategy behind exact accuracy.

There are a number of benefits of accuracy when shooting a rifle. The following details some of these advantages:

1. By having an accurate shot with your rifle, you can actually engage in shooting that is long range. This means that you can aim at any target, near or far, and have precision accuracy with little to no complications.

2. By using a scope on your rifle, you can enjoy the benefit of recovering more quickly after each shot.

3. By using a rifle scope, you can get a detailed estimation of the space between your weapon and your target.

4. To ensure that you hit the designated target, the scope that can be attached to your weapon can assist you in the area of properly identifying the target that your rifle is bearing down on. This is especially helpful in careers, such as law enforcement and those positions in the military.

When purchasing a rifle scope, it is important that you consider the following:

1. The first thing that you should consider when it comes to purchasing this component for your rifle is the amount of money that you have that can be budgeted to the purchase. There are many scopes out there that can cost as much as over $1000! You want to be certain that you know exactly how much you have to spend, and the most that you can spend on this product.

2. The second thing that you will want to think about is the overall size of the lens that you prefer for your rifle scope. If you select a large lens, you will be able to have a higher level of power than if you select a small lens. In addition to this, larger lens on rifle scoops permit for a larger viewing area.

3. The next thing that you should consider is the overall power setting that comes in included with the scope that you are considering. If you need to see your target in a distinct manner, then it is important to have a large power setting. This way, you can properly identify your target – with no questions whatsoever.

There are many benefits to having a scope on your rifle. Here, you have been introduced to many different advantages associated with rifle scopes, as well as some main points to consider when it comes to actually purchasing your scope. If you are thinking about a scope for your weapon, let this article serve as a guide to assist you in your purchasing decision.

Visit our website to shop for rifle scopes, and tactical rifle scopes.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Joshua_McNiel
What to Look For When Purchasing a Rifle Scope

The Bit of Archery History
By Linda Thompson

The history of archery is an interesting one, by following the evolution of archery we also follow the history of mankind which is so closely linked.

Throughout the world we have found evidence of ancient archery, even in places where in the past it was thought that the bow and arrow was not used, such as Australia.

It is thought that archery most likely dates back to around 20,000 BC which is in the Stone Age, but the ancient Egyptians are credited as being the oldest known people to have used the bow and arrow. Archery was adopted by the ancient Egyptians at least 5000 years ago for the purpose of both hunting and warfare.

In 1200 BC the Hittites, an ancient people who lived in what is what is now known as Turkey and northern Syria, used the bow and arrow from fast, light chariots that enabled them to become dreaded opponents in Middle Eastern battles.

Their neighbours known as the Assyrians, who originated in Iraq, Iran, Turkey and Syria also used archery extensively. They reshaped the bow to a recurve shape that was shorter and much more powerful enabling them to be handled at lot easier by an archer on horseback. They also used several different types of material to build bows including horn, tendon and wood.

In China archery can be traced back to the Shang dynasty which was between 1766 and 1027 BC when war chariots carried a three man team consisting of a driver, lancer and archer.

It was during the ensuing Zhou dynasty between 1027-256 BC that the Chinese nobles at court liked to attend archery sporting tournaments that were accompanied by music and much fanfare.

The Chinese introduced civil archery to Japan around the six century and it had an overriding influence on later techniques and etiquette. One of Japan’s martial arts now known as kyudo (way of the bow) continues to be taught in Japan in the traditional manner. A bow over 2 metres long and made of bamboo, wood and laminated strips is used for shooting a target set in a roofed over bank of sand.

During the Geco-Roman period, the bow was utilized more for personal exploits or hunting than it was for warfare, Archery is frequently depicted on pottery dating to that time.

The Romans are not believed to have been very good archers, more than likely because up until the 5th century the bows they used were shot by drawing the string back to the chest rather than the face which gives the arrow far more accuracy.

Enemies such as the Parthians had far better skills; they were accomplished horsemen who were able to shoot backwards by swivelling around in the saddle often at full speed.

The superiority of the archery equipment and techniques used by the people of the Middle East continued for centuries. Attila the Hun and his Mongols, using Bows similar to those of the Parthians and Assyrians, conquered much of Asia and Europe and the Crusaders were thrown back by Turkish archers.

The bow was a means of survival during the days of English and later American colonization and still is in some countries on the African continent

The popularity of archery has also been reflected in many songs and folklore, probably the most famous being Robin Hood, but archery is also often referenced in Greek mythology.

The first known organized archery competition included 3000 participants and was held at Finsbury, England in 1583.

By the time of the European 30 Years War between 1618 and 1648 because of the introduction of the gun, it had become clear that the bow and arrow as a weapon belonged in the past.

Since that time, archery is has become extremely popular as a recreational sport.

Linda Thompson is webmaster of http:Discount Archery Shop where you can get all your discount archery needs from bows,arrows and accessories to targets. We have a full range of bows and arrows. Check our prices!

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Linda_Thompson
http://EzineArticles.com/?The-Bit-of-Archery-History&id=1152483

The pair of boots I have now are uncomfortable, and without sufficient insulation to deal with cold weather. So I think I’ll get some new boots this year. But I might actually have to get two pairs. You see, it’s going to be all warm, sometimes wet, and usually snakey. Then the winter is going to come on and the ground is going to freeze through the sole of my boots while I stand in one place for three hours.

Should I try to find one middle-ground boot that is warm enough for the cold, but not too warm for the warm? Should I get a pair of light snake boots and then some waterproofed, gore-tex, thinsulate, space station boots for the winter? I don’t know. I have some experience with combat boots, but not so much with hunting boots.

Buy for your climate, you say. Well, yes, that’s why I’m considering two pairs. But I’m going to be honest with you, I’m cheap. I need some new archery gear this year, too. If I get two pairs of boots, then my wife is just going to scowl at me when I go to buy the bow or crossbow (I haven’t decided yet). What to do…what to do?

Right now I’m looking at some snake boots, and also some boots with heavy insulation, waterproofed, and all that jazz. Do any of you who are more experienced with hunting boots have any advice for me? Maybe I should just get some desert tan combat boots for the warmer weather, but that won’t help me with the snakes. I guess I just don’t need to step on the snakes, but I’m trying to be cautious here.

By Caleb Rogers

When disaster strikes, where will you be and how will you get to your family? Will you have supplies with you if you’re out and around town? The purpose of this article is to discuss what is known as the “get home bag,” and differentiate it from a bug out bag.

A get home bag, though it goes by many names, is a basic emergency kit one usually keeps in their car. The purpose of this kit is to keep you, and whoever is typically with you, safe and fed until you can get to a more secure location or more long-term gear. A bug out bag, on the other hand, should be designed to hold enough gear to completely sustain you – and any family with you – for 72 hours or more. Depending on the size of your family, you might need a few bug out bags.

While bug out bags should typically be large enough to carry a lot of gear, a get home bag only needs to carry enough to get you home or to a similarly safe location. The bag you use for a get home bag should have two basic characteristics. First, it should be small enough that you can carry it around comfortably. A common backpack or shoulder bag designed for school books should be sufficient. What you don’t want to do is use a large military-style rucksack. They are bulky and won’t help you out if you need to get out in a hurry.

The other characteristic is inconspicuousness. Drawing attention to yourself in a disaster isn’t a good thing. If the situation is bad enough, people will beat you and possibly kill you for your food and water. If you are trying to get to a secure location, your journey should be as smooth as possible. Keep a low profile by using a small, common backpack or shoulder bag. You’ll look like everyone else, so chances are you won’t be singled out by unsavory characters as a target.

I like to think of a get home bag as a mini bug out bag. Like a bug out bag, the get home bag should be filled with gear that you personally will need. Customize it to suit your individual needs. Here are some ideas to get you started:

• Food: I like to use MREs for this. MREs are military rations designed to keep you going and do so from a small package. You can fit two or three in a backpack and still have room for plenty of other gear.
• Water: This one is tricky because water is heavy. Two or three water bottles will probably be what you need, but that will add a lot of weight. You will just have to judge your own personal circumstances and needs to determine the right amount of water to carry. It might be a good idea to carry a little water, and then some type of water purification system.
• Foul Weather Gear: Depending on your area, you might need something to protect you from rain, snow, or hard desert heat. Ponchos, anoraks, wool sweaters, gloves, headwear, and such will fit the bill, but you have to pack according to your needs.
• Knife: Carry a pocket knife or multi-tool in your pack. It’s the most versatile tool around and it’s a staple of any survival pack.
• Rope: Carry a length of rope or paracord in your pack. You can use it string together a quick shelter made of branches or a tarp, lash on a splint, or make a tourniquet.
• Flashlight: It gets dark every day, so be sure to have a way to see in the dark, along with batteries to keep that flashlight going.

When packing your get home bag, there are two things you need to keep in mind: Your individual gear needs and your local laws. Aside from dying, the last thing you want to do is get arrested in a disaster. Whatever type of personal security equipment you put in your bag (including your pocket knife), you need to make sure you follow local and state ordinances. Even though you may be in the midst of a disaster, police officers will still be around and they still have a job to do. Take care of yourself, but don’t run afoul of the law.

Keeping a get home bag in your car is a simple way to keep gear close to you when you might need it. Getting home in an emergency is important, and it’s a lot easier to do if you already have equipment on-hand to aid and support you.

Over the next few years, I’ll be building a house. It won’t take me years to build (I hope), but I won’t have the necessary funds to start the build for at least another year.

I plan on building a house that is as self-sustaining as possible. Water from a well and cistern type of system, and electricity provided by some type of natural resource. That one is going to be tricky, but after spending thousands of dollars on electricity over the years, I’ve had enough. That’s an expense I would rather do without, especially since there are viable alternatives should one be so inclined. It’ll be tough, but I can do it.

I plan for the house to be situated on some land that I will find and purchase. That land will also serve a sustaining purpose. I plan for it to provide meat and veggies for my family. It’s homesteading, I guess…but it’s not going to be very far from civilization. For the most part, I like civilization. And I like technology (thus the need for electricity).

I’ll post updates here as they come in. Stay tuned, because there may be very valuable survival information along the way.

I love my .30-30. I got it for my birthday, early for use with the modern gun deer season. It’s a Marlin 336W, unscoped and slinged. The rifle is light, comfortable, and very easy to handle in the woods. This might be one of the best basic utility rifles around, and would be perfect for bugging out, bugging in, and hunting.

I’ll post some pics of it this week, because everybody loves some good gun porn. If I forget, then I’ll post them next week. Just keep checking back everyday until you see the pics. And I’ll write a review soon, too. Not too soon, though, because I need to use it more to get a real grip on it, its use and its function.