I was an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) for over twenty years and a Police Officer (PO) for ten. I still maintain certifications in CPR/AED and Advanced First Aid. Back when I was a PO and EMT I responded to hundreds of motor vehicle accidents and medical emergencies. Back then our tool of choice was either […]
veteran gear reviews
Zero Tolerance ZT0022 | A tiny knife that punches above its weight class
When I look through my collection of folding knives, I notice a lack of variety in the size department. With many of them falling into the more common 8″ to 8.5″ overall length. In fact, the smallest knife I own is the ZT0450CF at 7.4″ and 2.4oz. Hardly a mini. That’s why I was intrigued […]
Zero Tolerance ZT0850 | Custom Collaboration Perfection
Recognizing the artistic genius of legendary knife builders, Dmitry Sinkevich and Todd Rexford, Zero Tolerance saw no other choice than to commission a custom collaboration. And with that, the ZT0850 was born. I’m not sure if this is a daily use knife or a collector’s item so bear with me. Priced at $400, this thing of […]
STATUS is a low-vis smart watch from MTM | Watch
Today there are two types of wristwatches out there. Classic analog watches with clock-like hands keeping time via some sort of mechanism. Then there are the smart watches. Miniaturized wrist computers with a multifunction screen. I’m a classic watch kind of guy, accumulating a drawer full of them over the years. Titanium and Stainless Steel […]
MSR Lightning Explore Snowshoe | Winter exploration at its best
Once again, Northern Michigan has become a winter wonderland. Last week, over three feet of light fluffy snow has accumulated and begs to be played in. Fortunately, MSR was kind enough to send out a couple of pairs of their Lightning Explore Snowshoes to help us enjoy the conditions. And that’s just what we’ve been […]
Durable Cold Weather Protection with the K5 Testa Soft-shell from Beyond
Well, it’s starting to feel like winter again, at least where I live. Temperatures have changed for the colder and so has my wardrobe. With a closet full of outerwear options, I find myself constantly going back to one of the most versatile pieces of kit in the quiver. The Testa Soft-shell Jacket and Pants […]
THE SOLDIERS NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS by LTC Bruce Lovely
Twas the night before Christmas, he lived all alone, In a one bedroom house made of plaster & stone. I had come down the chimney with presents to give And to see just who in this home did live. I looked all about a strange sight I did see, No tinsel, no presents, not even […]
YETI LoadOut 5 Gallon Bucket | Contractor Approved
I first laid eyes on this new item from Yeti at Outdoor Retailer. Although 5 gallon buckets have been around for awhile, I had to take a closer look at the Yeti LoadOut 5 Gallon Bucket. Typical Yeti over engineering was evident as soon as I picked it up. Made from injection molded plastic and weighing […]
My essential items for Airline Travel
I spend a fair amount of time traveling. Sometimes it’s an Overland trip, other times it’s via boat or aircraft. One thing that remains constant, and that’s my travel loadout. I’ve tried a lot of different luggage, shoes, clothing and accessories over the years. Being a gear tester allows me the unique ability to try […]
The Solo First Aid Kit from My Medic
Assembled by experts in the medical and outdoor fields, the Solo First Aid Kit from My Medic is an essential piece of kit. Sized perfectly for individual use, The Solo FAK easily fits into a cargo pocket, carry-on luggage, belt or backpack. Intended for individual use, the Solo FAK is loaded with the supplies you need […]
The Bang Box Range Gear from G-Code | Ultimate Organization
Being organized prior to arriving at the shooting range is something I strive for. It just makes the process easier and training more efficient. Up until now, I would load .50 Cal ammo cans of loose ammunition into the truck. Which can weigh as much as 20+ pounds per container. Do we really need to […]
Midland ER10VP Emergency Alert AM/FM Weather Radio
About twelve years ago, there was a major storm in my area of New Jersey, and we lost power. Luckily, it only lasted for about eighteen hours, but the lesson learned once again is how much we rely on external power for our news and information. In addition to the basic emergency supplies like food […]
Powerful Overland utility lights from LightFORCE | ROK20
This past winter saw a lot of changes to our Toyota Tundra Overland rig. Changes to the suspension for more clearance, rock sliders for protection, additional battery, fridge and more lights. And you can never have too many lights. While the majority of my lighting upgrades focused on forward facing illumination for driving, one addition […]
Organize Your Gun Safe with MagStorage Solutions
Those who are Type-A personalities will appreciate this product. If you’re like me and like to keep things tidy and organized, MagStorage Solutions has just what you need for your gun safe. I initially saw these storage solutions for various magazine types at SHOT Show and had to get my hands on them to help […]