My Every Day Carry (EDC), 2025 Update

It has been quite a while since I have talked about my EDC. I wrote about it several years ago (Feb 2020) and almost six years have gone by since. I was curious to see how my EDC had changed since, for better or worse. Since a few things have changed, I thought I would write this up and give you a look at what I’m carrying on a daily basis in late 2025, and compare it to my 2020 EDC. Continue reading “My Every Day Carry (EDC), 2025 Update”

Buy Once, Cry Once: Self Reliance Outfitters Water Bottles

This article begins a new series called “Buy Once, Cry Once.” I’m going to feature some item that have performed far beyond their expectations. Today we are going to take a look at my favorite water bottles. They have put up with serious use and abuse in the 8 years I’ve owned them. They are Self Reliance Outfitters stainless steel water bottles. If you’re looking for the end-all, be-all water bottle, this is it! Continue reading “Buy Once, Cry Once: Self Reliance Outfitters Water Bottles”

Southern Cross Bourbon Review

I’m going to start right up front by saying I’m not a bourbon reviewer. I know what I like, but generally speaking, I ain’t got the words. And this little “review” probably isn’t going to make a bourbon reviewer out of me. I was so impressed with Southern Cross High Proof Bourbon Whiskey that I felt compelled to write about it, however. I reached out to a brand representative who offered to send me a bottle for review and I jumped at the opportunity, so this is my Southern Cross Bourbon review.

Continue reading “Southern Cross Bourbon Review”

Helikon-Tek Mini Med Kit Pouch

A while back I reviewed the Helikon-Tek Foxtrot Mk2 lumbar pack. During that review I promised to add a review of the Helikon-Tek “Mini Med Kit” first aid pouch as an addendum to the original article. As it turns out, this is a perfect pouch for my basic first aid kit.  It’s also a great add-on to the Foxtrot Mk2 lumbar pack. Let’s take a look. Continue reading “Helikon-Tek Mini Med Kit Pouch”

Hiking with Trekking Poles

I’ve always questioned the value of trekking poles. To be honest, I’ve always thought of them as a somewhat goofy-looking fashion statement. Last year I began to reconsider, though. With a big increase in hiking and especially hiking over elevation, I started looking for something to ease my knee pain on hikes with lots of downhill. So, I gave them a try, and after ~40 miles on trail with them, they’re now essential kit for me. Bottom line up front: If you’re a banged-up, high-mileage model like me – and don’t want to give up hiking – you might benefit significantly from hiking with trekking poles. Continue reading “Hiking with Trekking Poles”