tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30516988824843118292024-03-14T08:56:08.809+00:00Electronic Mountain LeaderOutdoor gear reviews,specialising in electronics!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04791907493613050112noreply@blogger.comBlogger116125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3051698882484311829.post-34592225480836052992015-05-02T12:14:00.001+01:002015-05-02T12:24:28.490+01:00Simply Hike blogger awards 2015 finalist<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Some good news, me and my amazing girlfriend <a href="http://www.mountaingirl.org.uk/">Emma</a> both made it to the finals of the Simply Hike blogger awards 2015! Having spoke to Shaun at <a href="http://www.simplyhike.co.uk/">Simply Hike</a> he confirmed that there were 1000's of entries for the various categories, so for both of us to get this far is a proud moment!<br />
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Having been doing my blog for a number of years I have never enter or been nominated for, a blog competition, so this is exciting for me! If you enjoy this blog please take 30 seconds to vote for me and Emma, Electronicmountainleader can be found in the camping section, and Emma's blog <a href="http://www.mountaingirl.org.uk/">Mountaingirl</a> can be found in the climbing section! Any votes are greatly appreciated! We are also featured on the Staffordshire University website (Em being a current student and me a former student!) - <a href="http://www.staffs.ac.uk/news/staffs-bloggers-reach-new-heights-tcm4283540.jsp">http://www.staffs.ac.uk/news/staffs-bloggers-reach-new-heights-tcm4283540.jsp</a></div>
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You can vote for us <a href="https://www.simplyhike.co.uk/blog/outdoor-blogger-awards-2015/">here</a><br />
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Many thanks in advance!<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04791907493613050112noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3051698882484311829.post-71329255148504973742015-04-14T02:13:00.000+01:002015-04-17T16:50:56.369+01:00Equipment for Single Pitch Award – Making the right choices<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 115%;">This is the second in my
series of “Making the right choices” articles on what equipment you should take
for your assessment in a range of qualifications. This segment is for the
<a href="http://theelectronicmountainleader.blogspot.co.uk/2010/07/spa-assessment.html">Mountain Training Single Pitch Award (SPA).</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">After I completed my
Mountain Leader, my SPA was the next qualification I wanted to work towards. I
love climbing, I love the thrill of it, but what I love more is getting young
people out on the crag. In my work with the Air Cadets I have been privileged
to work with some truly talented young climbers, taking them out and getting
them interested in climbing was only possible through doing my SPA. Whilst (in
my opinion) easier than Mountain Leader, SPA still demands a huge amount of
work and effort to prepare for your assessment, and in no other area is that
more crucial than getting the right equipment. This article focuses on the
equipment required for your SPA assessment:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><u><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><a href="http://theelectronicmountainleader.blogspot.co.uk/2011/02/summer-rock-climbing-rack.html">Your rack<o:p></o:p></a></span></u></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">For your SPA assessment you
will to take a full climbing rack including everything you will need to lead
and set up climbs (with the exception of ropes). Below is a summary of what I
would recommend for your SPA assessment, and what got me comfortably through my
assessment.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Protection<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Nuts – 2 sets 1-11, also consider taking a set of DMM
offset nuts too.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Hexes – 1 set, hexcentrics or similar depending on
personal preference.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Cams – optional, range of sizes.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">120cm sling – 3, each with a screwgate karabiner<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">240cm sling – 2, each with a screwgate karabiner<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Other<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Quickdraws – around 8<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Slingdraws (quickdraws with a 60cm sling instead of a
standard quickdraw sling) - 3<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Small screwgate karabiners – at least 3 for building
belays.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Large HMS screwgate karabiners – 3, use for building belays,
releasable abseils, and setting bottom ropes.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Prussik loops – 2, 1.5m of 5-6mm cord tied with a double
fisherman’s knot, with a screwgate.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Belay plate – 2, each with a screwgate.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Nut key – You will get stuff stuck.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Harness/Helmet/Rock boots – obviously<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Whilst the above may seem straight forward, it represents
a substantial investment of money, so getting it right is crucial. As with any
equipment lists, this is my recommendation, that isn’t to say I am the foremost
authority on this matter and you shouldn’t diverge from what I list, quite the
opposite, I would encourage you to build you rack the way you want! I will now
discuss a few of the items above….<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-u-akbMGGwVY/VSwtNvCGEII/AAAAAAAAA_Q/ynxJwQYwMX0/s1600/DSCF3540.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-u-akbMGGwVY/VSwtNvCGEII/AAAAAAAAA_Q/ynxJwQYwMX0/s1600/DSCF3540.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">DMM Alloy Offsets</td></tr>
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<b><u><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Nuts/Wires<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Wallnuts vs Rocks vs Stoppers vs Curve nuts vs Spectrum
Wires vs ProNuts….this debate is not new in the climbing community. But which
ones are best? Simply? They are all good, and you need to decide which are best
for you, based on cost, range of sizes, weight etc. However some facts for you:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Biggest range of
sizes:</span></b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"> Wild Country rocks are available in sizes
1-14 making them the biggest range available on the market, however you will
need to buy these in 2 sets (1-8 and 9-14) costing you at least £60 a set (if
you find an offer!). Black Diamond’s Stopper pro set is 1-13 and costs less at
around £100.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Cheapest Nuts:</span></b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">
The cheapest set of wires on the market are Zero G’s Spectrum Wires at £49. I
have a set of this and really like them, the shapes are nice, and for the price
you really can’t argue! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Lightest nuts:</span></b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">
The lightest nuts on the market are Metolius’s Ultralight Curve nuts which come
out at 360g for a set of 10. However there is not a massive saving on weight
when compared to DMM Wallnuts for example, which come out at 429g for a set of
11, so whilst being 69g heavier, you do get an extra nut for that weight. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Strongest nuts: </span></b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">All
similar really….most honest opinion I could give! There isn’t much point me
discussing minor differences in operational limits.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Best nuts: </span></b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Each
to their own, I love DMM wallnuts and have 2 sets of them. I also have a set of
Zero G spectrum wires which have never let me down!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">DMM alloy offset in action</td></tr>
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<b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Anything else worth
knowing: </span></b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Yes, buy a set of <a href="http://theelectronicmountainleader.blogspot.co.uk/2010/04/dmm-alloy-offsets.html">DMM alloy offsets</a>! They are
the most incredible set of nuts you will ever buy. Buy them as a supplement to
your full sets of nuts not instead of. They are a set of 5 wires that fit in
places where other nuts simply can’t. The unique shape (based on the original
HB design) fits into offset and odd sizes cracks, and are simply fantastic. I
used these more on my SPA than ever before, and was so glad for having them
with me! I actually own 2 sets now, which I have combined into 1 set, simply
because I place them so much!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><u><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Cams<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">One piece of advice, if you take them, know how to place
them, and certainly don’t use them for rigging. One lad on my assessment got a
slating for placing them incorrectly, and was fighting against that negative
comment in his head the whole assessment. Cams are useful we all know that, I
am not going to go into detail on cams since I believe they are something
people should make their own mind up on. Your options are wide in terms of
brands and types. Personally I use DMM 4CU’s, they are cheap, and work well.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><u><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Hexes<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Hexes are very useful, and should always be carried. The
larger range of sizes fit in bigger cracks and gaps, and learning how to place
them to take full advantage of the camming action they provide is a crucial
tool to the aspirant SPA holder. In terms of advice, again there isn’t much to
offer here. You have 2 choices; Black Diamond Hexcentrics, and Wild Country
Rockcentrics. The Hexcentrics are on wire, whilst the Rockcentrics are on
sling. Decide whether you would rather have hexes on wire or sling, and buy
accordingly. I own Hexcentrics since I have always felt the durability of wire
outweighs the benefits of the flexibility of sling.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><u><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">A
word on slingdraws<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Carry a few slingdraws. For those of you who have a blank
expression on your face when reading this term; a slingdraw is a quickdraw made
up of a 60cm sling and 2 snapgate karabiners. The sling is attached to each karabiner and doubled up, which leaves the slingdraws at 15cm, they can be used in this format
as normal. However they provide a 60cm extension where you need to extend a
gear placement out to counter rope drag (for example when moving up an
overhang). Slingdraws are very versatile and many climbers exclusively use
slingdraws for the flexibility they offer.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><u><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">A final
word on kit<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">By the time you attend your SPA assessment you should
have done at least 40 leads, therefore you will already have a good idea of
what kit you need. Make sure that you can justify every choice of kit, your
assessor will scrutinise anything out of the norm. This may include GriGri’s,
quicklock karabiners (particularly Magnetrons), safety lanyards etc. In addition to all this kit, it is definately worth getting a couple of books on the subject, I would recommend <a href="http://theelectronicmountainleader.blogspot.co.uk/2011/05/mlte-training-books.html">"Rock Climbing"</a> by MLTE. I did a
post on my SPA assessment back when I did it if you are interested in reading
what SPA assessment is like click <a href="http://theelectronicmountainleader.blogspot.co.uk/2010/07/spa-assessment.html">here</a></span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04791907493613050112noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3051698882484311829.post-26858751791964190902015-04-14T02:03:00.000+01:002015-04-15T08:52:20.288+01:00SPOT GPS: Big brother for DofE leaders<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nZKSyJpvGFk/VSrh2fKB3NI/AAAAAAAAA90/QLYdB2h1hdI/s1600/SPOT3%2Bcopy.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nZKSyJpvGFk/VSrh2fKB3NI/AAAAAAAAA90/QLYdB2h1hdI/s1600/SPOT3%2Bcopy.png" height="320" width="266" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 18.39px;"><i>"helped initiate more than 550 rescues in 51 countries on land and at sea"</i></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;">Whilst GPS
messengers have been around for a while now, they have only recently (in the
last couple of years) become commercially viable for the masses. In line with
this new found availability, many Duke of Edinburgh’s Award groups have
purchased these systems to allow them to keep track of groups on the hill. But
how effective are they? Are they worth the large price tag and annual
subscriptions?</span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">My Air Cadet
Wing recently purchased 8 SPOT trackers and the associated licences. I was
therefore given the chance to test these extensively over the expedition
season. This is a short review of the functionality of these devices for use on
expeditions with young people.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></u></b></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MrWzLj8v1QU/VSriSybyR-I/AAAAAAAAA-E/gf1Wb-MC7KU/s1600/SPOT%2B2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MrWzLj8v1QU/VSriSybyR-I/AAAAAAAAA-E/gf1Wb-MC7KU/s1600/SPOT%2B2.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">'Remote supervision'</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<b><u><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Overview<o:p></o:p></span></span></u></b></div>
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<b><u><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The way the
units work is simple; they broadcast the position of the unit to a piece of mapping
software such as Mapyx, allowing the instructors to track the group’s location.
The unit also allows the group to send simple pre-programmed messages via the
buttons on the front, request emergency help from the instructor, and request
external search and rescue directly. The unit uses GPS satellites to send
messages and therefore don’t rely on mobile signal. The SPOT units are small
and easy to explain to groups. The units themselves have 4 front buttons, plus
2 buttons that have ‘safety catches’ to prevent accidental triggering. The 4
front buttons (clockwise from the top): <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span><br />1. The Power Button; turns the unit on </div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l2 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<br />2. The track button; broadcasts the unit’s position <br />
<br />3. Message button; sends a pre-programmed message, such as “we are at our checkpoint”<br />
<br />4. OK button; broadcasts a check in.</div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="mso-list: l2 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"></span></span> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The software
that comes with the units can be used to program what the message button sends.
The unit interfaces with the Mapyx software, which has a web based interfaced,
allowing instructors to log in to the website and view (on a 1:25,000 OS Map)
where the group are. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Costings<o:p></o:p></span></span></u></b></div>
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<b><u><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The SPOT GPS
unit itself will cost you £160 (RRP although they can be found for cheaper)<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">On top of
the cost of the unit you need to pay an annual subscription. Subscriptions vary
depending on how often you want the unit to broadcast the position of the unit,
the more frequent the location updates, the higher the cost. You must pay £99
per year for the basic service and tracking, this can then be upgraded by
paying the appropriate upgrade fee. Prices can be found below: <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><u><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1.
Basic Service and Tracking (Required)<o:p></o:p></span></span></u></i></div>
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<i><u><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></u></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Costing £99 Per Year - Required for all Spot devices.
Package include unlimited predefined Custom, Check In, Tracking, Help and SOS
messages. Basic tracking automatically transmits your GPS location every 10
minutes for 24 hours so you can share your adventures in near real time via
SPOT Adventures or a SPOT shared page. You can track as long as you like, but
after 24 hours, you will need to re-set your tracking.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><u><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">2.
Unlimited Tracking (Optional)<o:p></o:p></span></span></u></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><u><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></u></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Costing £28 Per Year on top of the Basic cost- SPOT
Gen3's enhanced tracking features allow you to choose your rate of tracking.
Pre-set your SPOT Gen3 to send your GPS coordinates every 5, 10, 30, or 60
minutes to suit the speed of your adventures. In addition, Unlimited Tracking
will continue to track your progress beyond 24 hours, allowing you to set it
and forget it (no need to re-set after 24 hours).<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><u><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">3.
Extreme Tracking (Optional)<o:p></o:p></span></span></u></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><u><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></u></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Costing £72 Per Year on top of the basic cost- Get all of
the great features of Basic and Unlimited Tracking but with the added ability
to vary your track rate down to every 2.5 minutes. Perfect for pilots and the
ultra outdoor enthusiast.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><u><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">GEOS
Search and Rescue Benefit (Optional)<o:p></o:p></span></span></u></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><u><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></u></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Costing £8 Per Year - The GEOS Search and Rescue member
benefit covers up to £50k in search and rescue expenses, even coordinating a
private rescue contractor, if needed.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DJkqvlT8RP4/VSriFtn8-uI/AAAAAAAAA98/JZN2tz1cADE/s1600/SPOT%2B4.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DJkqvlT8RP4/VSriFtn8-uI/AAAAAAAAA98/JZN2tz1cADE/s1600/SPOT%2B4.png" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The software</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<b><u><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></u></b></div>
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<b><u><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></u></b></div>
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<b><u><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The
software<o:p></o:p></span></span></u></b></div>
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<b><u><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">The units use Mapyx mapping
software (although they can be programmed to use others). </span><span style="line-height: 115%;">The software is web based allowing instructors to log in
from any web based device; tablets, phones, laptops etc. Any alerts sent from
the unit i.e. Distress calls will also be sent to a pre-configured mobile
number.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">T</span></span></u></b><b><u><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">he
drawbacks</span></span></u></b></div>
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<b><u><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">There are some quite big
drawbacks to this system:<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1. Unless you have access to
the internet where you are (which will usually be remote areas), then the
system is generally useless from a tracking point of view. Whilst the alerts
will come through to a mobile, the tracking relies on the web based internet. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin-left: 18.0pt; mso-add-space: auto;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">2. The web based net system
on 3G internet requires a good connection, quite often you won’t have this in
the outdoors. As a result trying to view locations on the internet system is
difficult (ties into the point above).<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin-left: 18.0pt; mso-add-space: auto;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">3. Cost - £160 + £99 per
year is expensive, simple! Is it worth it for peace of mind?<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin-left: 18.0pt; mso-add-space: auto;">
<br /></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">If multiple instructors are
trying to access the web system to view the groups locations, it will log out
the person who is logged into the web system when the next instructor tries to
log in. The instructor who got kicked off will invariably try and log back in
thus logging out the person who just logged in. This happened to me during an
expedition, and was honestly one of the most frustrating experiences of my
life.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph">
<br /></div>
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<b><u><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The
positives<o:p></o:p></span></span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">There also some quite big
positives to this system:<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1. If you are in an area
with good internet it’s an excellent way of keeping tabs on a group without
smothering them with attention.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">2. The group will ALWAYS have
a means of contacting help in an emergency, which can provide peace of mind,
although my worst nightmare is seeing Mountain Rescue storming past a
checkpoint where I’m waiting for a group, and not realise they are running to
the aid of one of my groups!<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">3. If you have someone at a “base”
location, with steady WiFi, they can act as a point of contact and relay grid
references and other information to the team in the field. </span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The
verdict<o:p></o:p></span></span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></u></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Expensive, but potentially
worth it. They provide a means of contacting emergency services regardless of
mobile signal, for leaders in the field the tracking can be quite ineffective
due to poor internet signal, however if using a base location can provide an
excellent means of keeping track of groups. </span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04791907493613050112noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3051698882484311829.post-62642119825175119972015-04-12T23:19:00.000+01:002015-04-29T13:27:19.109+01:00Easter climbing at Windgather<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-We2CoZCPo4Q/VSro4genk2I/AAAAAAAAA-U/frg2Xb58dRo/s1600/Photo%2B05-04-2015%2B12%2B43%2B31.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-We2CoZCPo4Q/VSro4genk2I/AAAAAAAAA-U/frg2Xb58dRo/s1600/Photo%2B05-04-2015%2B12%2B43%2B31.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">At the top of the first lead of the day</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">My beautiful girlfriend Emma is currently making her final preparations to attend her Single Pitch Award training. So to get some leading in we headed out for a spot of camping and climbing. We decided to head to Windgather near Buxton, a nice, small, group friendly crag. After giving Emma her Easter present of a set of Mammut crag indicator quickdraws, we headed out. Despite being infested with children (Emma had some thoughts on that <a href="http://www.emountaingirl.blogspot.co.uk/2015/04/children-at-crag-ethics-in-climbing.html">here</a>), we had an excellent day of climbing. I am so proud of how well Emma is climbing, considering how quickly she has learn to lead, place gear, build belays, she is an excellent climber. I watched Emma lead several routes, and was impressed with how smoothly she lead and <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-b_y_wk2MVbc/VSrpmHU6r1I/AAAAAAAAA-c/ZxClM5ut-ic/s1600/Photo%2B05-04-2015%2B14%2B14%2B21.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-b_y_wk2MVbc/VSrpmHU6r1I/AAAAAAAAA-c/ZxClM5ut-ic/s1600/Photo%2B05-04-2015%2B14%2B14%2B21.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Em on High Buttress Arete (D**)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
placed gear. Her gear placements were excellent (as you will see from the difficulty I had in removing some of them on the video!). Highlight of the day was seeing Emma on High Buttress Arete (D**), she confidently and professionally lead the route, having watched someone floundering around on one move for over 10 minutes. Considering the difficulty of building belays at the top of some of the climbs on Windgather, Em did incredibly well to build efficient belays after only been shown once, and I was so confident in her abilities that I didn't even feel the need to run around to the top and see what she had done. Overall an excellent day climbing, we got plenty done then headed over to the Cat and Fiddle for a well earned toasty and a brew.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="color: blue;"><b><u>#ProudBoyfriend</u></b></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="color: blue;"><b><u><br /></u></b></span></span>
<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04791907493613050112noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3051698882484311829.post-87314507679173999102015-04-12T18:12:00.002+01:002015-04-15T08:50:04.819+01:00Equipment for Basic Expedition Leader and Lowland Valley Leader – Making the right choices<div class="MsoNormal">
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wETJualSckU/VSqknzq-z8I/AAAAAAAAA8g/gOijQdENX5I/s1600/blog1%2Bcopy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wETJualSckU/VSqknzq-z8I/AAAAAAAAA8g/gOijQdENX5I/s1600/blog1%2Bcopy.jpg" height="320" width="290" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">This is the first in a
series of articles on what equipment you should take for your assessment in a
range of qualifications. This week is Basic Expedition Leader (BEL) and Lowland
Valley Leader (LVL), and over the next week I will also be posted on both
Mountain Leader and Single Pitch Award. I have also previously done articles on <a href="http://theelectronicmountainleader.blogspot.co.uk/2010/12/expedition-loadout.html">expedition kit</a>, <a href="http://theelectronicmountainleader.blogspot.co.uk/2010/12/mountain-leader-my-leader-kit.html">mountain leader kit</a>, and <a href="http://theelectronicmountainleader.blogspot.co.uk/2010/12/winter-loadout-20102011.html">winter kit</a> for feel free to have a look at them too! Enjoy! </span><b><u><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></u></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">I am a qualified Mountain
Leader currently working towards both my Winter ML and Mountaineering
Instructor Award. I am also a course director for the Basic Expedition Leader
Award and soon to be a Director for the Lowland Valley Leader too. I have a
wealth of experience working with groups for over 10 years, and the
recommendations made in this article are based on that experience. Choosing the
right kit for taking groups out can be tricky. This is complicated by the fact
that during assessment your choice of equipment will be scrutinised for
suitability by your assessors. This article is meant as a ‘foundation’ on which
you can develop your personal equipment choices, this list is not exhaustive
and there may well be other items you wish to add to your kit. This article
also focuses on the equipment required for a day walk as opposed to a multi-day
expedition.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fFsQpTi1Ef4/VSqliuirI6I/AAAAAAAAA8s/xJt82vCDS1A/s1600/131383_544331386191_2009135870_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fFsQpTi1Ef4/VSqliuirI6I/AAAAAAAAA8s/xJt82vCDS1A/s1600/131383_544331386191_2009135870_o.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Rucksack:<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Choosing the correct
rucksack is essential as it allows you to not only fit the required amount of
equipment in, but also remain comfortable throughout the day. An ideal rucksack
for your leader kit on BEL or LVL would be around the 40 Litre mark. In my
personal opinion Osprey packs are worth considering, whilst at the top end in
terms of price, they are also at the top end in terms of performance, providing
excellent comfort and well-designed packs. 40 Litres is only a guide size, and
you may wish to carry a pack that is either bigger or </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">smaller than this. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><u><span style="color: red; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Key things to look for:<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">When you buy your rucksack
test it! Most reputable shops will have weight bags you can place into the bag
to test it. Do not blindly buy off the internet! Also bear in mind that many brands of
rucksack now produce packs in different (fixed) back sizes, so do your research
and make sure you get the right size for you!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">First Aid Kit: <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">As a group leader you are
responsible for ensuring you have the correct equipment to deal with a range of
emergencies on the hill. One of the key items in your emergency kit is your
first aid kit. Your kit must be big enough to deal with multiple injuries to
multiple casualties, but also take into account the fact that you need to be
carrying it around with you all day. The result needs to be a balanced kit
comprehensive enough to cover all scenarios, and light enough not to be a
burden on the hill. My kit began life as a <a href="http://theelectronicmountainleader.blogspot.co.uk/2010/06/lifesystems-mountain-leader-first-aid.html">Lifesystems Mountain Leader first aid kit</a>. I added several items to the kit and removed items such as painkillers
(as leaders we cannot administer these to young people). I added; foil blankets
x 2, small GPS, incident card, blister plaster pack, tick tweezers, and extra
gloves. Adding these items is not required to make the kit usable, but I have
found these are the items I use most frequently and aren’t included in the kit,
and therefore top up the kit to provide everything I need. You may wish to add
extra items not mentioned above, or add nothing. I also like the Lifesystems
First Aid Kit layout because it splits the sections of the kit down into usable
areas like “breaks and fractures” and “Bleeding” which means anyone can know
where the items in your kit are stored in the event you are incapacitated, or
need someone else to use it.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><u><span style="color: red; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Key things to look for:<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">When buying a first aid kit
make sure it is big enough to cover everything you need. Some people prefer to
buy an empty first aid kit bag and add their own equipment. Don’t overload
yourself with kit, you have to carry it all day remember!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IHBA6VU6DAI/VSqmrQ-VA9I/AAAAAAAAA9M/hEwOhARGvRo/s1600/group_shelter_4-6%2Bcopy.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IHBA6VU6DAI/VSqmrQ-VA9I/AAAAAAAAA9M/hEwOhARGvRo/s1600/group_shelter_4-6%2Bcopy.png" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Group Shelter:<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">A group shelter is an
essential and sometimes overlooked item of emergency kit. It provides a
temporary emergency shelter for injured parties, provides a temporary respite
from poor conditions, or even a convenient place to hide during a lunch a stop.
There are various sizes and brands of group shelter available. When choosing a
group shelter bear in mind the potential size of your group; a 2 person shelter
is no good if you plan to be working with groups of 8-10. Group shelters can be
found in sizes up to 20 person. Personally I carry an 8 person shelter (Terra
Nova Bothy 8), which will work for
around 10 young people. All the brands of shelter are broadly equivalent and
will generally work for 2 or more people than the size stated (i.e. a 10 person
both could fit 12 at a push). Group shelters are a balance between size and weight, the bigger they are
the more they weigh, so consider what size you want to carry to provide shelter
in an emergency without burdening you with extra weight.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><u><span style="color: red; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Key things to look for:<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">There are 3 main brands of
group shelter; Outdoor Designs, Vango, and Terra Nova, all produce shelters of
varying sizes. Terra Nova sell a “Superlite” version which costs a lot more but
weighs less (the 4 person standard shelter weighs 600g and costs £45, the
superlite weighs 400g and costs £120). In my opinion such a huge difference in
cost does not represent value for money where the saving in weight is only 33%.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JmeDN0hT1XY/VSqnF_TMZdI/AAAAAAAAA9U/MQqT-_esuJw/s1600/IMAG0069.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JmeDN0hT1XY/VSqnF_TMZdI/AAAAAAAAA9U/MQqT-_esuJw/s1600/IMAG0069.jpg" height="112" width="200" /></a></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">GPS:<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">In the modern world it makes
sense to take advantage of current technology. I believe all leaders working
with young people in the hills/mountains should carry, and know how to use, a
GPS handset. In a pinch these provide simple, one touch access to a pinpoint
location which can be provided to emergency services. This also takes the
pressure off you in an emergency, allowing you to focus on treating the
casualty, rather than needing to work out an accurate location. There are several
dedicated GPS handsets below £100 on the market, with the <a href="http://theelectronicmountainleader.blogspot.co.uk/2012/01/magellan-explorist-neat-little-gps.html">Magellan eXplorist110</a> and <a href="http://theelectronicmountainleader.blogspot.co.uk/2011/12/garmin-etrex-10-old-yella.html">Etrex 10</a> being 2 of the most popular – both reviewed on this blog if
you search back. On a budget? There are a wide variety of <a href="http://theelectronicmountainleader.blogspot.co.uk/p/which-apps.html">apps</a> available for
android and iOS that use the GPS functionality of your phone to provide
accurate fixes. Before using one of these make sure you check whether your
phone has a GPS antenna or just uses an internet fix to provide location.
Failure to check this could mean you think you have access to GPS in an
emergency, when in actual fact it relies on a solid 3G or H+ signal to work.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><u><span style="color: red; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Key things to look for:<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Keep it simple, there a wide
range of GPS sets that have OS map functionality etc. Do you really need access
to these features? Or do you need a simple set that provides a quick and
accurate read out in an emergency? Consider this when buying a GPS. Also check
that the handset is fully waterproof, this may come in handy for UK weather!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Spare kit:<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">When operating with groups
it is often prudent to carry spare equipment in case of drama on the hill! This
can vary depending on the leader. Most leaders carry spare hats and gloves.
Personally I carry spare hats and gloves x 2-3 pairs, in addition I carry spare
socks, and spare laces, along with a spare warm layer such as a down jacket or
belay jacket. The equipment you choose to carry is completely down to you, but
also consider the time of year, the location you are operating in, and the
weather. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><u><span style="color: red; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Key things to look for:<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Your spare kit doesn’t need
to be expensive! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-y6QMJXGV3MQ/VSqnYBVwBCI/AAAAAAAAA9c/90AWDPAHCgg/s1600/Photo%2B26-01-2014%2B13%2B51%2B32.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-y6QMJXGV3MQ/VSqnYBVwBCI/AAAAAAAAA9c/90AWDPAHCgg/s1600/Photo%2B26-01-2014%2B13%2B51%2B32.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Consider conditions when packing your leader kit</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Personal Kit:<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Waterproofs</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Warm layer (down jacket etc)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Map and compass</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Water + Spare water
(consider a hydration system of some description)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Walking poles (can also be
given to a group member in event of injury)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Penknife or similar</span></li>
</ul>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">This article contains
recommendations for equipment to be carried, however I stress that choosing
YOUR leader kit should be based on personal preference. Your equipment will
constantly evolve, as you gain more experience what you carry will change. Consideration
also needs to be given to your group size, conditions, time of year, which may
mean you carry more or less of certain items.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04791907493613050112noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3051698882484311829.post-18903138460425568982015-03-09T22:34:00.001+00:002015-03-09T22:36:31.616+00:00Mountain Rescue vs Muppets<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_hu33OHc888/VP4f0VhPXnI/AAAAAAAAA6A/l_bQbripCMA/s1600/Muppets%2Bvs%2BMR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_hu33OHc888/VP4f0VhPXnI/AAAAAAAAA6A/l_bQbripCMA/s1600/Muppets%2Bvs%2BMR.jpg" height="200" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 18.3999996185303px;">…of course I don’t mean the loveable Jim Henson puppets, no I am of course referring to the oxygen bandits that frequently make Mountain Rescue’s job much harder than it already is. Let’s face it, Mountain Rescue do an amazing job, despite the lack of funding provided by the government. It therefore makes my blood boil, when every year I see article after article about moronic behaviour by ill equipped novice walkers and climbers doing irresponsible and reckless things, that then require Mountain Rescue volunteers to put their lives on the line to rescue them. Let’s look at some case studies over the last 3 months, starting with this chopper who thought tackling Crib Y Ddysgyl in a leather jacket, jeans and plimsolls, in winter, in 90mph gusts, was a good idea….</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 18.3999996185303px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 18.3999996185303px;"><a href="http://www.grough.co.uk/magazine/2015/01/15/teen-rescued-from-snowdon-ridge-in-90mph-winds-very-lucky-to-be-alive">http://www.grough.co.uk/magazine/2015/01/15/teen-rescued-from-snowdon-ridge-in-90mph-winds-very-lucky-to-be-alive</a></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 18.3999996185303px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 18.3999996185303px;">It defies belief that someone can lack common sense to such a degree that they believe climbing a tough Snowdonia ridge in Winter and high winds in jeans and plimsolls is a good idea. The quote that really stuck with me reading this article was:</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 18.3999996185303px;">“On the one hand we had a young walker in jeans, plimsolls and a leather jacket rapidly succumbing to hypothermia; on the other a responsibility not to put team members’ lives in such serious danger. There was a real possibility that we might have been forced to leave him there on the mountain.”</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 18.3999996185303px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 18.3999996185303px;">More examples of idiots from this weekend:</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 18.3999996185303px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 18.3999996185303px;"><a href="http://www.grough.co.uk/magazine/2015/03/08/tryfan-walker-clinging-to-adam-and-eve-among-nine-ill-prepared-rescued-walkers">http://www.grough.co.uk/magazine/2015/03/08/tryfan-walker-clinging-to-adam-and-eve-among-nine-ill-prepared-rescued-walkers</a></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 18.3999996185303px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 18.3999996185303px;">And…..one more:</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 18.3999996185303px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 18.3999996185303px;"><a href="http://www.grough.co.uk/magazine/2014/01/27/two-teams-in-rescue-of-hypothermic-snowdon-walker-in-jeans-and-trainers">http://www.grough.co.uk/magazine/2014/01/27/two-teams-in-rescue-of-hypothermic-snowdon-walker-in-jeans-and-trainers</a></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 18.3999996185303px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 18.3999996185303px;">But what really got me into this subject on this occasion, was the rant from Lochaber Mountain Rescue Team about a recent incident which involved experienced climbers. Mountain Rescue Teams often make a point of not slagging off people they rescue, regardless of the frankly idiotic circumstances that often lead to the requirement for rescue. However in this case this was an experienced group, who got into trouble in tough conditions, one of the group fell and MRT were called. What lead to rant was not the fact that they got into trouble, but the fact that when Mountain Rescue told the 2 uninjured climbers to stay put, they ignored the advice, moved, and fell down a cliff, making Mountain Rescues job 200% harder, putting more volunteers at risk for longer, and requiring more kit to be sacrificed. To me this is just sheer idiocy, if you’ve had to call the teams out, you do what they say, simple. You don’t know better, if you knew better you wouldn’t be calling them out. In my opinion Lochaber Mountain Rescue team were completely justified in airing their feelings on this matter. People need to know the crass stupidity that goes on behind closed doors. I am glad to see there was a huge outpouring of support for Lochaber after the comments were posted on Facebook. See the original post on this site: </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 18.3999996185303px;"><a href="http://www.heraldscotland.com/news/home-news/rescuers-rant-at-climbers-who-knew-better.119505890">http://www.heraldscotland.com/news/home-news/rescuers-rant-at-climbers-who-knew-better.119505890</a></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 18.3999996185303px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 18.3999996185303px;">But where do they draw the line? At what point does it become “they made their bed, now they need to lie in it”, or in this case, lie down and die in it. Now in my heart I know I wouldn’t be able to just leave that kid up there to die, and I know for a fact that that the mountain rescue teams share that sentiment, why else would they “put down their daily lives and head up a mountain in weather that no-one else would be out in, prepared to risk their own lives to save another, without pay, without expenses and many, many times a year.” But where do they draw the line? Is there a line? Or do Mountain Rescue just continue to stretch their limited resources to protect the freedom of novice walkers and climbers to be idiots? The answer I imagine is yes, because despite the obvious frustration they must feel, they are all part of the teams because they want to save lives, and given that there will never be laws preventing wally’s doing idiotic stuff, the outcome seems inevitable…</span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04791907493613050112noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3051698882484311829.post-27318136793363637372015-03-09T21:41:00.001+00:002015-03-09T21:42:53.041+00:00A roller coaster relationship with climbing.<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cgv-f-k4Fy4/VP4SNZmjP9I/AAAAAAAAA5o/pEEoW-EWSv4/s1600/Photo%2B06-03-2015%2B16%2B57%2B51.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cgv-f-k4Fy4/VP4SNZmjP9I/AAAAAAAAA5o/pEEoW-EWSv4/s1600/Photo%2B06-03-2015%2B16%2B57%2B51.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Emma on Trident Arete (VD)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Over the last few years I’ve really struggled with
motivation to enjoy myself in the outdoors, particularly with climbing. During
my teacher training (and even the year preceding) I had very little time to do
anything except work, plan, mark, and try and grab some sleep. (Incidently, anyone
who says teachers have it easy, doesn’t have a clue)… I suppose I got it into
my head that I <b><i>couldn’t</i> </b>enjoy
climbing anymore. I mentioned to Emma a few nights ago that ‘I didn’t enjoy
climbing anymore’, this was after a particularly enlightening indoor climbing
session where I realised I had lost much of previous strength and stamina, and I
felt pretty useless I must admit. I suppose at the time, I meant it, but
looking back I was probably still a bit miffed at my poor performance at the
wall.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-G8Mbv6Ba7kg/VP4TEb_GD6I/AAAAAAAAA5w/NDEtVS8x4fE/s1600/Photo%2B25-02-2015%2B18%2B58%2B09.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-G8Mbv6Ba7kg/VP4TEb_GD6I/AAAAAAAAA5w/NDEtVS8x4fE/s1600/Photo%2B25-02-2015%2B18%2B58%2B09.jpg" height="200" width="200" /></a></div>
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After I finished work early on Friday, Emma suggested we go
climbing, and to be honest, at that moment, that was the thing I wanted to do
most! So we literally grabbed the kit and headed over to Harborough Rocks, with
the aim of getting Emma a couple of leads towards her SPA. As I watched Emma
leading, it was the first time (in a very long time), where I actually felt
like I wanted to climb; it was a feeling I hadn’t had for a long time.
Previously when I’d gone climbing, I just sat there wishing I was home on the
Xbox , or chilling, or doing anything else that wasn’t climbing. I was really
happy to feel a genuine spark of passion, to get climbing again. With Emma
doing her SPA training soon, and summer fast approaching, I find myself looking
forward to getting out and getting some climbing done! It’s amazing what being
with someone you really care about and you share so much with can rekindle in
you; I really, genuinely thought I had fallen out of love with climbing, but as
I sit here writing this article, all I can think is that I want to plan what
leads I want to do when me and Emma head to Wales in a couple of weeks. <span style="color: #0b5394;"><u><b>#LetsDoThis</b></u></span><o:p></o:p></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04791907493613050112noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3051698882484311829.post-31891919727350380492015-02-02T16:44:00.001+00:002015-02-02T16:45:48.905+00:00Gucci Karabiners: Black Diamond Magnetron vs Grivel TwinGate<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-30tYdnl6ZCw/VM-iDZL9zVI/AAAAAAAAA4g/3ffWs2oLWV0/s1600/Photo%2B02-02-2015%2B16%2B08%2B58.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-30tYdnl6ZCw/VM-iDZL9zVI/AAAAAAAAA4g/3ffWs2oLWV0/s1600/Photo%2B02-02-2015%2B16%2B08%2B58.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Black Diamond Rocklock (top)<br />
Grivel TwinGate (bottom)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Back in 2011 I posted about the up and coming releases shown at OutDoor 2011. Amongst these was the Black Diamond Magentron karabiner; a locking karabiner with a magnet to keep the gate closed. Emma got me one for Christmas and I have to say it's pretty cool. At the same time I noticed the Grivel TwinGate karabiners on the market at a decent price, and so I decided it was time to revive my gear reviewing with a head to head karabiner competition between these 2 bad boys!<br />
<br />
<br />
First up then, the Black Diamond Magnetron.The Magnetron karabiners come in 3 different versions; the Gridlock from (£27), the Vaporlock (From £24) and the Rocklock (From £21). The gridlock is a magnetron version of Black Diamonds Gridlock karabiner, the Vaporlock is a small pear shaped karabiner, and the Rocklock is a larger HMS karabiner, all are available with different colour gates and all 3 feature the Magnetron locking system; meaning all you have to do is to gently apply pressure on either side of the karabiner gate to unclip the magnet system allowing the gate to open. On releasing the gate the magnet re- engages and the karabiner locks closed automatically. This is incredibly easy to do, and allows for<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-B-a2FMad7Yk/VM-lxhBuxII/AAAAAAAAA4s/IWoe62YuSy0/s1600/Photo%2B02-02-2015%2B16%2B09%2B22.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-B-a2FMad7Yk/VM-lxhBuxII/AAAAAAAAA4s/IWoe62YuSy0/s1600/Photo%2B02-02-2015%2B16%2B09%2B22.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bent spine shape allows for maximum gate opening</td></tr>
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easy one handed operation. Applying pressure only one side will not open the lock, meaning the chance of accidental opening is limited. For the purpose of this review my comments will be based on the Rocklock version only. At 87g the karabiner feels light in the hand, with the usual high build quality you would expect from Black Diamond. The shape of the karabiner maximises the gate opening meaning you could easily sneak 2 clove hitches on (I tried this with 10mm rope!). I used a Rocklock on my belay device on a recent climbing trip, and I can honestly say they feel very secure, coupled with an ease of use I haven't experienced with a quicklock karabiner before. I would definitely recommend these karabiners to anyone who wants to use a quicklock karabiner but has never got along with other models.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5k32BpFqNHs/VM-mwva7O9I/AAAAAAAAA44/zCLroMZw5tg/s1600/Photo%2B02-02-2015%2B16%2B10%2B12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5k32BpFqNHs/VM-mwva7O9I/AAAAAAAAA44/zCLroMZw5tg/s1600/Photo%2B02-02-2015%2B16%2B10%2B12.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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Now onto the Grivel TwinGate series. There are 2 versions of the TwinGate karabiner; the Sigma and the Mega. The Sigma is a smaller snap gate style karabiner, whilst the Mega is a slightly larger HMS karabiner. To save me having to explain the TwinGate system, please see this video: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tPdSBA6Fjig">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tPdSBA6Fjig</a> which explains the various ways you can use the karabiner. Personally I have found the TwinGate system a little fiddly compared to other karabiners, the idea of having to fiddle one gate up, whilst holding the other open also, is exactly as annoying as it sounds! At 79g it is lighter that the Magnetron, however it is worth bearing in mind that the TwinGate is is smaller than the Magnetron, which would account for the extra weight. I would also add at this point that the TwinGate has a much smaller gate opening, owing to its double gate system, so don't rely on being able to easily clip multiple clove hitches, large knots etc onto the TwinGates. One massive plus for the TwinGate however is the cost, at £11 each for the Mega or Sigma, you can buy 2 TwinGates for each Magnetron. The question is, would you want to? For me, no, no I wouldn't. I just don't like the TwinGate system, it's fiddly, and goes against the reflexes I have built up over 10 years of climbing, my reflex isn't to open 2 gates at once, my reflex is to do **something** which opens the gate, however that **something** is a single action, and doesn't involve doing 2 seperate things! Perhaps it is just me, at £11 it's worth you trying it for yourself and not taking my word for it. I will persist with the TwinGate system, perhaps in time it will grow on me.....<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04791907493613050112noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3051698882484311829.post-36802488490467530772015-02-02T15:31:00.000+00:002015-02-02T15:31:20.883+00:00Return to duty! Birchen Edge trip Jan 2015<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-t_Oo0zVI-rY/VM-Rd-lOSEI/AAAAAAAAA3w/Q8P15vPnCOU/s1600/Photo%2B25-01-2015%2B15%2B21%2B07.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-t_Oo0zVI-rY/VM-Rd-lOSEI/AAAAAAAAA3w/Q8P15vPnCOU/s1600/Photo%2B25-01-2015%2B15%2B21%2B07.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Emma gearing up!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Well it's been a long time since I wrote anything on here, in fact May 2012 was the last time I took the time to write anything on my blog. Why the long absence? I suppose in part it was due to going into teaching, the long 60 hour weeks, endless marking, and copious amounts of planning left little time for a social life, or even anything resembling fun, I lost interest in climbing, mountains, gear and many other things I had previously loved. Recently however I have rekindled my love of the outdoors, due in no small part to meeting Emma, who is not only the most incredible person I have ever met, but also the source of my current outdoors revival. Me and Emma made an agreement; I would learn to ski, and she would learn to lead climb. So to that end we set out to Birchen Edge in the Peak District, in search of Emma's first lead climb. Despite the snow in the Peak District the conditions weren't too bad, if a little cold! After arriving, me and Emma did some last minute gear placement practice, before Emma decided on climbing "Stokers Wall" a VD located on Stokers Wall. Em geared up and<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0qGOk_NS5Ig/VM-UUsS061I/AAAAAAAAA38/13JU6uTNEk0/s1600/Photo%2B25-01-2015%2B12%2B11%2B08.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0qGOk_NS5Ig/VM-UUsS061I/AAAAAAAAA38/13JU6uTNEk0/s1600/Photo%2B25-01-2015%2B12%2B11%2B08.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Concentrating face!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
zipped up the initial part of the climb, placing a couple of pieces of gear as she did. Towards the top it appeared there were a couple of tricky moves, but despite this Emma climbed up the final part of the climb and finished. It was only later that we discovered the reason for the tricky crux moves towards the top was that she had in fact climbed onto "Stoked" an S 4a climb, oops! But I was incredibly proud to see Em almost effortlessly climb a Severe for her first ever lead, Emma was naturally very happy to have her first lead out of the way, and we can now work towards getting all the leads she requires for her SPA training in April, something which we will both look forward to. For those of you who are interested in reading more about Emma's adventures, she now has a website/blog which can be found at <a href="http://www.mountaingirl.org.uk/">www.Mountaingirl.org.uk</a> . We are heading out with a group of cadets on Sunday 8th Feb, so <br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Sp_nfMVUAhQ/VM-Wl__B7MI/AAAAAAAAA4I/oPhrC2FtoJM/s1600/Photo%2B25-01-2015%2B14%2B28%2B34.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Sp_nfMVUAhQ/VM-Wl__B7MI/AAAAAAAAA4I/oPhrC2FtoJM/s1600/Photo%2B25-01-2015%2B14%2B28%2B34.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Stoked S 4a</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
hopefully we will be able to squeeze a few leads in during that trip too! So Emma has been working hard on her leading what have I been doing on my side of the deal? Well I've had a few ski lessons, and aside from the fact I'm terrible I'm doing ok! I managed to zip across the entire slope, and the ski lift and wind up crashing on the tubing range however, but I will keep trying and we shall see how I go. Me and Emma have a number of trips this year, through the cadets and on our own, including both America and Morocco (Toubkal), so expect to see a fair bit more action on here than you have for the last 2 years. For those of you who have continued to visit, thank you very much. I haven't forgotten about the gear believe me! I will be reviewing the Black Diamond Magnetron, Grivel TwinGate karabiners, and SPOT GPS tracker system over the course of February so stay tuned!<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04791907493613050112noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3051698882484311829.post-29325700750279389032012-05-25T14:00:00.001+01:002012-05-30T15:30:17.062+01:00Ethics on Everest (2012 edition)<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2xNMry0osYs/T79-H-IrAjI/AAAAAAAAAuw/NTQMi-JLm6Q/s1600/552904_292297137528276_100002439776495_628440_1702144860_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2xNMry0osYs/T79-H-IrAjI/AAAAAAAAAuw/NTQMi-JLm6Q/s320/552904_292297137528276_100002439776495_628440_1702144860_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Everest Conga Line</td></tr>
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<br />
The issue of ethics on Everest is raised every year, usually round about the time the annual deaths occur in the Everest climbing season (blunt way of putting it, but true none the less). For me my interest in the subject came a number of years ago while watching “Everest Beyond the Limit”; a series on the Discovery channel following a number of climbers attempting to summit Everest in 2006. The series became famous for the footage of climbers on the expedition finding a dying climber (who would later be named as David Sharp). David Sharp had attempted to climb Everest unsupported and unguided using a minimalist package from Asian Trekking. He was discovered barely conscious at Green Boots cave; a small shelter containing the body of Tsewang Paljor; an Indian Climber who died on Everest in 1996. It is estimated that before David died he was passed by more than 40 climbers who did not render any assistance to the dying man. The first man to encounter David was Mark Inglis - a double amputee from New Zealand. Inglis stated in an interview when he found David on his ascent, he thought he was already dead, and had continued on. Another climber from the same group (Max Chaya) encountered David on his descent from the summit and attempted to give assistance, along with a Sherpa from the group, but to no avail – David was unable to walk even with assistance and an hour of trying. David died on 15th May 2006. Much of the criticism was (unfairly in my opinion) levelled at Russel Bryce – the expedition leader of the Chaya and Inglis expedition group, because it was felt he did not offer enough assistance to David.<br />
1 week later an Austrailia climber; Lincoln Hall was left for dead on Everest after he fell ill with altitude sickness. His sherpa’s had attempted for hours to get him moving but eventually he was left for dead. It was widely reported in the media that he had died. The next day a team lead by US climber Dan Mazur<br />
encountered Lincoln:<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EHQYgrvuWiQ/T79-jGXZTyI/AAAAAAAAAu4/myswmwsd3oQ/s1600/lincoln-hall.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="181" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EHQYgrvuWiQ/T79-jGXZTyI/AAAAAAAAAu4/myswmwsd3oQ/s320/lincoln-hall.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lincoln Hall </td></tr>
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<br />
“Sitting to our left, about two feet from a 10,000 foot drop, was a man. Not dead, not sleeping, but sitting cross legged, in the process of changing his shirt. He had his down suit unzipped to the waist, his arms out of the sleeves, was wearing no hat, no gloves, no sunglasses, had no oxygen mask, regulator, ice axe, oxygen, no sleeping bag, no mattress, no food nor water bottle. 'I imagine you're surprised to see me here', he said. Now, this was a moment of total disbelief to us all. Here was a gentleman, apparently lucid, who had spent the night without oxygen at 8600m, without proper equipment and barely clothed. And ALIVE”<br />
<br />
A rescue on a massive scale swung into action with a team of 12 Sherpa’s plus Dan Mazur and his team (who had abandoned their summit bid) worked to get Lincoln down from Everest. He survived.<br />
After seeing Everest Beyond the Limits and seeing the genuine emotion from expedition members who encountered David Sharp, there was no lack of desire to help him, but 2 people can’t drag a dying man down a mountain in the death zone, but 40 people might have been able to. Anyone wanting to read more about the controversy regarding the 2006 Everest deaths, should consider reading <a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/Dark-Summit-Extraordinary-Everests-Controversial/dp/0753515709/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1337950558&sr=8-1">“Dark Summit” by Nick Heil</a>, it gives a balanced and detailed account of what happened and why.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ANw5cvet1CU/T79_AFXudhI/AAAAAAAAAvA/LIOc3XZrF4Y/s1600/_59142321_leanna.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ANw5cvet1CU/T79_AFXudhI/AAAAAAAAAvA/LIOc3XZrF4Y/s1600/_59142321_leanna.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ms Shuttleworth </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I didn’t write this article because of David Sharp, I wrote it to illustrate the parallels between the 2006 season in which David Sharp died (amongst others), and this years deaths. This was sparked after reading about Leanna Shutterworth, a 19 year old girl who has just completed a climb of Everest. What made me angry is not the current culture of people being desperate for daddy to pay for them to become the “Worlds youngest <insert achievement="" generic="" here="">”, I couldn’t care about that, if it makes you happy then do it. No, what made me angry was on reading the news articles and blog posts from Ms Shutterworth she makes reference to the bodies of dying climbers they stepped over on their way to the summit. </insert><br />
<br />
"There were casualties from the day before, which was tragic and horrendous.<br />
“There were quite a few bodies attached to the fixed lines and we had to walk round them.<br />
"There were a couple who were still alive.”<br />
[http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-beds-bucks-herts-18199899]<br />
<br />
<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>I had to read this several times for it to sink in; “We had to walk round them”, “Couple who were still alive”. She makes reference that one Sherpa helped one of them but they were “to far gone”. To reference back to the Lincoln Hall incident, is it the case that “too far gone” has become something which people judge differently on Everest, do they want to believe they are “too far gone” to alleviate their own guilt at walking past/around/over them, or are they genuinely too far gone. Lincoln hall was placed in this bracket yet he lived, how many others are judged to be "too far gone" where they could in fact be saved. Easy for me to judge sat in my living room on a warm summers day, but I know myself, I know that were I ever in that situation I would never allow myself to carry on to the summit while there were living people dying behind me. Perhaps there is often nothing that can be done for these people, but I couldn’t live with myself if I didn’t try, and I find it worrying how many Everest tourists these days (people with no mountaineering background or skills) devalue human life in exchange for the bragging rights of climbing Everest. 40 people passed David Sharp, if 20 people had stopped, maybe he would have been saved, maybe he wouldn’t. These people Leanna talks about walking around, maybe they were dead already, or maybe if she (and others) had helped then they wouldn’t be. Leanna will get a hard time from the climbing community unless she comes forward to justify herself (difficult to try and do I suppose), UKClimbing.com (lead by Simon….) have already started a frank discussion on the matter:<a href="http://www.ukclimbing.com/forums/t.php?t=507050&v=1#x6887864"> http://www.ukclimbing.com/forums/t.php?t=507050&v=1#x6887864</a>, she perhaps doesn’t deserve the stick she is going to get, she is just another ambitious teenager who didn't realise what she was putting her foot in, but should maybe have considered the implications of bringing up such a sensitive issue in this manner whilst in the public eye, many would consider her use of "people dying on the ropes" just a way to emphasise her achievement; I'm not one of them. It should also be stressed at this point that my anger is not directed solely at Leanna, she is simply a public face of the otherwise faceless horde of walkers who seem to disregard human life in favor of achieving their own goals.<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uWdMRVKFO4U/T79_XEIe_jI/AAAAAAAAAvI/lwx4YQ9v5Aw/s1600/_60484004_bothnew224.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uWdMRVKFO4U/T79_XEIe_jI/AAAAAAAAAvI/lwx4YQ9v5Aw/s1600/_60484004_bothnew224.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nadav Ben-Yehuda (left) and Aydin Irmak</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>To offer some contrast to this story, a rescue took place on Everest in the last week by an Israeli climber Nadav Ben-Yehuda. With only 300m to go until the summit, he found a stricken climber (Aydin Irmak) who he had befriended at base camp. Again (as in all cases it seems), a number of climbers had passed Aydin Irmak, and left him to die. Nadav Ben-Yehuda abandoned his climb, hoisted Aydin onto his shoulder and carried him down the 9 hours to Camp 4 where they were both evacuated.<br />
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I want to leave on one short phrase which for me summed up the difference between people who walk past dying humans on Everest, and those who stop to help;<br />
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<b>Nadav Ben-Yehuda described his decision to stop and help Aydin Irmak as “Automatic”, how many less people would die on Everest if more people described their decisions as such.</b><br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04791907493613050112noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3051698882484311829.post-76794748134742712962012-05-21T18:27:00.001+01:002012-05-21T18:29:19.667+01:00Angexis Outdoor - some clarification<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-W2qXVrl-PsQ/T7p5HCgGK6I/AAAAAAAAAuk/b5O2A5E7_9g/s1600/logo.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-W2qXVrl-PsQ/T7p5HCgGK6I/AAAAAAAAAuk/b5O2A5E7_9g/s1600/logo.png" /></a></div>
Got a quick email and comment that from Jan Vorwerk at Angexis Outdoor which I thought I would share with everyone:<br />
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<br />
"Hi Chris,<br />
<br />
I found your e-mail address on the screenshots of Angexis Outdoor on your blog ;-)<br />
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First off, let me tell you that I am very pleased that you like this app and very honored that it appears on day #1 on the 7 days of Android!<br />
<br />
This afternoon, I have added a comment, and either I did a mistake (and never posted the comment), or you decided to hide it (which is your right!). I just wanted to double-check that you understood my comment and understand why the the app needs the mobile data network... so that your readers are not mislead.<br />
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Also, since you compared it with SPOT: the main difference (beside the price) is that SPOT will likely never send a false alert, since it is manual, but on the down side, it will never send an alert if you are unconscious. Also, SPOT will continue working if you are in mobile-deserts with no coverage at all.<br />
Angexis Outdoor will work in most cases (except in such "deserts" since it needs to "check-in" on a regular basis with the web site)... the downside is that it might send false alerts in some cases (e.g. you lose your phone, it gets broken, you run out of battery, you reboot your phone and forget to stop the app first...).<br />
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Hope this clarifies. If you have any additional question, please let me know!<br />
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Best regards"<br />
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<b>And the comment:</b><br />
<br />
"Hi Chris,<br />
<br />
Glad you liked that app... and hope you'll like it even more now that alerts can be sent by SMS.<br />
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Just one comment though : even with the SMS feature now, the app still needs (and will need) the mobile network.<br />
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The reason is that it is necessary for the app to regularly tell the web site the user's position. If it did not work this way, it would not be very reliable because if an accident occurred out of mobile coverage, it would not be able to send any alert any longer, and the web site would have no clue where the user could well be...<br />
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The drawback is the impact on the battery of course...<br />
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Hope this clarifies !"<br />
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So a nice bit of clarification on why Angexis Outdoor uses the Mobile network, great of Jan to take the time to comment on the software, great App guys, really like it!<br />
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<br />
Angexis Outdoor is available on the Play Store<a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.angexis.outdoor"> https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.angexis.outdoor</a><br />
<div>
<br /></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04791907493613050112noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3051698882484311829.post-65243315955203161592012-05-20T12:39:00.001+01:002012-05-20T12:39:08.921+01:00New website on the way<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OXwMCbFMQpQ/T7jWkDR65pI/AAAAAAAAAuQ/bzRzg2xr7s8/s1600/HTML5_Logo_512.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OXwMCbFMQpQ/T7jWkDR65pI/AAAAAAAAAuQ/bzRzg2xr7s8/s320/HTML5_Logo_512.png" width="320" /></a></div>
I am currently in the process of creating a new website using HTML5. Having used a few HTML5 websites I really like the way it works, Flash can be a bit fiddly at times and even more so on older computers, so much easier to look to build the site in HTML5.<br />
<br />
The new site will be going live in the next few weeks, depends how quickly I can get to grips with HTML5, hoping it won't be too difficult!<br />
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In the meantime the old site will be live until the new one is ready, below is a little sneak peak of the initial layout of the new site and how things will look, any feedback welcomed as always!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VS1wWCwqIag/T7jXwkDb1gI/AAAAAAAAAuY/kfE1kcvwYVc/s1600/website+sneak+peak.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="235" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VS1wWCwqIag/T7jXwkDb1gI/AAAAAAAAAuY/kfE1kcvwYVc/s400/website+sneak+peak.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04791907493613050112noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3051698882484311829.post-79494372274857146462012-05-19T15:32:00.001+01:002012-05-19T15:32:23.125+01:00Angexis Outdoor - updated version 2.0<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7wgKQhlG-GI/T7esway4EgI/AAAAAAAAAtQ/S8_LBSdkl6o/s1600/logo.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7wgKQhlG-GI/T7esway4EgI/AAAAAAAAAtQ/S8_LBSdkl6o/s1600/logo.png" /></a></div>
Last week I reviewed Angexis Outdoor - a mobile app for Android. I made the point that overall the software was good, but it lacked a function to send SMS alerts to contacts, and instead relied on emails being sent. Having seen an update on the <a href="http://www.facebook.com/AngexisOutdoor">Angexis Facebook</a> that they had made a new version with SMS built it, I had to get it as soon as possible! 30 minutes after the update I had version 2.0 (free download from Google Play), and the SMS system works like a dream. I tested it on my girlfriends mobile, the alert sent from my phone featured a website and a 5 letter code. Going to the website SMS.Angexis.com gives you then screen below in the screenshot below. Your contact needs to input the code and the last 4 digits of their phone number to view your location, easy peasy, can be done easily through mobile internet too. The position is shown on Google Maps, but also gives you Lat/Long which can be passed on to Mountain Rescue etc.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HtxV8MbfrGA/T7euaMln30I/AAAAAAAAAtY/sJVRG7e0iQ8/s1600/Untitled-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HtxV8MbfrGA/T7euaMln30I/AAAAAAAAAtY/sJVRG7e0iQ8/s320/Untitled-1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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The texts are sent in one of 3 ways: Firstly if you stop moving for a period of time (which you can set), secondly if you trigger a manual SOS, or thirdly if you are out of range of the Angexis server. You can set all the timescales involved easily from the simple menu. For more detailed information on how the system works, see my original review below.<br />
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Overall: great work guys, you've no doubt had some feedback on the software not having SMS and responded to that creating a version that now features SMS alerts. Excellent!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04791907493613050112noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3051698882484311829.post-67806174637391629052012-05-19T12:43:00.000+01:002012-05-19T12:43:19.986+01:007 days of Android - stalled<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1iKkFlkmvJs/T7eHAyT_qUI/AAAAAAAAAtE/nf8SduLnfGY/s1600/man-shouting-at-mobile-phone-mobile-rage+copy.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="166" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1iKkFlkmvJs/T7eHAyT_qUI/AAAAAAAAAtE/nf8SduLnfGY/s200/man-shouting-at-mobile-phone-mobile-rage+copy.png" width="200" /></a></div>
Some on you may have noticed that I stalled on Day 2 - my Android phone currently won't work long enough to review anything. All started after I installed the latest Android software, currently waiting for a window where I won't need my phone for a week or so to send it off - half term soon. Until then, apologies for the lack of Android related reviews!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04791907493613050112noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3051698882484311829.post-26717467912957548862012-05-08T18:13:00.000+01:002012-05-08T18:13:47.641+01:007 days of Android - Day 2<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--W8__j7q9Rw/T6lPdbP39JI/AAAAAAAAAsU/UUR5bIDrTUA/s1600/unnamed.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--W8__j7q9Rw/T6lPdbP39JI/AAAAAAAAAsU/UUR5bIDrTUA/s1600/unnamed.png" /></a></div>
The second edition of 7 days of Android features <a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.mictale.gpsessentials&hl=en">GPS Essentials</a>. GPS essentials is an incredible, well designed, free, piece of software designed to offer all the functionality of a GPS handset, on your Android phone.<br />
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<b>How Does it work</b><br />
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The main feature of the software is the GPS dashboard. This is basically a blank canvas that can be filled with all the information you want. There are 45 options for this page, simply select the fields you want displayed and they will be placed into your dashboard. The options available include; Lat/Long, grid reference, accuracy, altitude and many more. This means you can build a custom screen that displays only the information you really use.<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NVGvJozDHP0/T6lRCrANO1I/AAAAAAAAAsc/1LUODQmzovU/s1600/Screenshot_2012-05-08-14-58-41.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NVGvJozDHP0/T6lRCrANO1I/AAAAAAAAAsc/1LUODQmzovU/s320/Screenshot_2012-05-08-14-58-41.png" width="180" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dashboard</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
For me, I chose accuracy, altitude, Number of satellites, location provider, Lat/Long, Speed, and position, however as previously mentioned there are many more available.<br />
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GPS essentials also has a number of other features which are useful for any outdoor user. Firstly you can add waypoints either by manually inputting co-ordinates, or by marking your current location. These can then be viewed in the HUD camera mode. The HUD basically shows your waypoints, in real life. What I mean by this is, if you add a waypoint for a hill or peak, then select that waypoint, you can then look through the HUD and, it will display the waypoint on the screen at the location it marks. It does this by equating your current position to that of the waypoint and shows the mark on the screen - very cool.<br />
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You can also import files such as GPX to give you a track to follow. There is also a compass and map (Google maps only, no high detail maps).<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mdNm_M8hHEM/T6lSrB7227I/AAAAAAAAAsk/HN241sGlrlc/s1600/Screenshot_2012-05-08-12-00-13.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mdNm_M8hHEM/T6lSrB7227I/AAAAAAAAAsk/HN241sGlrlc/s320/Screenshot_2012-05-08-12-00-13.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">HUD display with waypoint (green mark)</td></tr>
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<b>How to use</b><br />
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Easy, turn it on, add the information you need to your dashboard, and turn the GPS on. Uploading additional files with tracks etc can also be done by adding them onto the SD card of your phone then importing them. It doesn't need mobile internet (unless you want the Google maps element), but obviously needs your GPS on.<br />
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<b>Limitations</b><br />
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The app has no real limits, it does exactly what it says on the tin - and does it very well!<br />
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<b>Conclusion</b><br />
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This app is a must-have app for any outdoorsy types who want to use the GPS on their phone in an effective way. It provides all the functions of a handheld GPS, and it's FREE. Great app, 10/10!<br />
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<b>Other information</b><br />
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Download here: <a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.mictale.gpsessentials&hl=en">https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.mictale.gpsessentials&hl=en</a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04791907493613050112noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3051698882484311829.post-77442667010438806042012-05-07T21:49:00.004+01:002012-05-07T21:53:23.056+01:007 days of Android - Day 1<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-S4mgL4sBajs/T6g0642jeNI/AAAAAAAAAsI/FV8rApGmJ1Q/s1600/logo.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-S4mgL4sBajs/T6g0642jeNI/AAAAAAAAAsI/FV8rApGmJ1Q/s1600/logo.png" /></a></div>
The idea of 7 days of Android is to bring you the best outdoors software for your Android smartphone, saving you the hassle of trawling through endless apps on the Play Store.<br />
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The first piece of software is <a href="http://www.angexis.com/en/">Angexis Outdoor</a> - an automated SOS app that alerts base when either; you trigger an SOS alert, or when you have been stationary for too long. Essentially turning your phone into a SPOT GPS messenger.....for free!</div>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HEbnQG2w1zo/T6gus7VPxNI/AAAAAAAAAro/4BcbQjzIYFg/s1600/Screenshot_2012-05-07-19-50-31.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HEbnQG2w1zo/T6gus7VPxNI/AAAAAAAAAro/4BcbQjzIYFg/s320/Screenshot_2012-05-07-19-50-31.png" width="180" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Options screen</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
<b>How does it work:</b> So what actually happens? Well an alert contains my location (using the phone's GPS), and my phone number, as well as a short message saying I may be in trouble. The only drawback of this system is the alert is sent to an email address NOT as an SMS (see later). There are 3 ways alerts are sent;</div>
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<i>Manual Alert:</i> I trigger a manual alarm if I am injured and in signal range.</div>
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<i>Immobility Alert:</i> I injure myself, am unconscious and not moving. The phone alarms me that an alert is about to be sent, if I don't respond to the alarm the alerts are sent.</div>
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<i>Web alert</i>: If I am out of signal range for too long an alert is sent by the Angexis website, saying my last known location and that I haven't checked in.</div>
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The timings for each alert can be set by the user (see below), so setting the out of server reach field higher is advised.</div>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JfGwL1vzCNo/T6gxHbr45lI/AAAAAAAAAr0/u0ZgsTN_Vd4/s1600/Screenshot_2012-05-06-23-28-50.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JfGwL1vzCNo/T6gxHbr45lI/AAAAAAAAAr0/u0ZgsTN_Vd4/s320/Screenshot_2012-05-06-23-28-50.png" width="180" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Menu screen</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
<b>How to use</b>: The app is remarkably easy to use. You turn the app on and connect your Google Account. You then allocate contacts from your phone book to be your emergency points of contact (not sure how many you can have but I have 4...). You then set the timings for your alerts (see screenshot), mine are currently set at 60 minutes, meaning after 60 minutes of no movement or no connection my points of contact will be notified (the server connection one should be higher than it is). Once you are ready to start your trip click "start". There is then a small icon in the task bar indicating that "Angexis is watching over you". And that's it, do you trip, if something bad happens then alerts will be sent. An example of an alert can be seen below. The system uses the phones mobile internet and GPS signals to gain a location and email it through the Google account you set up earlier.</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nhA_riODXt8/T6gxpMi4lmI/AAAAAAAAAr8/K6cc5l0cnBg/s1600/alert.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="140" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nhA_riODXt8/T6gxpMi4lmI/AAAAAAAAAr8/K6cc5l0cnBg/s400/alert.png" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">An alert from Angexis</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
<b>Limitations</b>: Ok so there is a free, effective, SOS tool, that can really add an extra layer of security to any trip...what's the catch. Well unfortunately there are a couple. Firstly the system uses emails as an alert means, I don't know about you guys but my email is not always to hand, and I don't sit in front of it all day. SMS would be a much more effective tool, and would also avoid the phone having to have the Mobile Internet on the whole time. This would also alleviate the drain on battery resulting from the mobile internet being on. Whilst the app seems to manage GPS use intelligently (turning it on and off after each fix), it doesn't seem to do the same with the Mobile Internet. SMS would be a much more effective way of sending the alerts; people always have their phones near them, but rarely on their emails.</div>
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<b>Conclusion</b>: I like it, it's free, it works, it's not buggy and unreliable, it IS good. It could be better if it utilised SMS meaning the phone didn't need mobile internet, by all means use mobile internet to connect to the server every so often (for the web alert), but not the primary means of alerting contacts. Well worth noting this is only the BETA version at the moment and has only around 500 downloads, so it is still improving. I will be offering my feedback to the app developers, who have done a great job building a free safety tool that will help turn a smartphone into a <a href="http://international.findmespot.com/">SPOT</a> unit. Great job guys!</div>
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<b>Other information:</b></div>
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Angexis Outdoor is available for free in the Play Store: <a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.angexis.outdoor">https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.angexis.outdoor</a><br />
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Website is here with a bit of information: <a href="http://www.angexis.com/en/">http://www.angexis.com/en/</a><br />
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<br /></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04791907493613050112noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3051698882484311829.post-50799636591176302582012-05-07T19:38:00.000+01:002012-05-07T19:40:05.977+01:00Trekmates Flameless Cook System<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Z5SDktJx6ms/T6gVQC-q7kI/AAAAAAAAArM/4grlJt7_lYQ/s1600/IMAG0006.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Z5SDktJx6ms/T6gVQC-q7kI/AAAAAAAAArM/4grlJt7_lYQ/s320/IMAG0006.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Hi all,<o:p></o:p></div>
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Long time no speak, been a busy few months for me; applying
for teacher training, interviews etc, a period during which I haven’t been out
much at all.<o:p></o:p></div>
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On the plus side; here’s a review of the Trekmates Flameless
Cook System (FCS). <o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="http://www.flamelesscook.com/">http://www.flamelesscook.com/</a><o:p></o:p></div>
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RRP £20/£30<o:p></o:p></div>
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Begrudingly I conceded it’s time
to replace my helmet having had it for 5 years now, it’s certainly served me
well. I headed over to Go Outdoors to buy a Petzl Meteor 3+ (fancied one for a
while, and combination of deals in GoOutdoors meant that they were available
for £51 – jackpot). While browsing round the store I came across the Trekmates
Flameless Cook System section. When I first saw the FCS it peaked my interest,
a means of heating food and drink that doesn’t need gas....sounds good. I was
faced with 2 options; £18 bought me the Flameless Cook Flask (360ml) http://www.trekmates.co.uk/online-shop/flameless-cook-system/flameless-cook-flask,
which came with 3 heat packs, alternatively £27 bought the Flameless Cook Box,
which came with 4 heat packs (2 of each size). I opted for the flask, reasoning
with myself that if the FCS proved to be a good addition I would return for the
box.</div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gh2vmxKnjsU/T6gVgT3G1TI/AAAAAAAAArU/Mnctr5NC6HQ/s1600/IMAG0002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gh2vmxKnjsU/T6gVgT3G1TI/AAAAAAAAArU/Mnctr5NC6HQ/s320/IMAG0002.jpg" width="179" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Stove in packaging</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<span style="text-indent: 36pt;">The system works by using water
activated heat packs, which are available in 2 sizes (high power and super
power), these are available for £10 (pack of 7 high power packs) or £10 (pack
of 5 super power packs). The super power packs are only useable in the
Flameless box and not in the flask. Each stove comes with a measuring bottle to
ensure you add the right amount of water to activate the heat pack (depending
on the size). Each stove or heat pack comes with “loyalty points” you can use
on </span><a href="http://www.flamelesscook.com/" style="text-indent: 36pt;">www.flamelesscook.com</a><span style="text-indent: 36pt;"> to buy more
heat packs, and other goodies. This is great because it reduces the overall
cost of the fuel for the stove as you get freebies every so often.</span></div>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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Good so far…..<o:p></o:p></div>
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So time to test one; the concept is fairly simple:</div>
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<b>Stage 1:</b> Separate the plastic outer stove from the metal
inner container. Put food/water into the inner metal section<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Stage 2:</b> Fill the plastic measuring bottle to the indicated
level for high or super (depending on the size of pack you are using.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Stage 3:</b> Add the heat pack into the bottom of the plastic
outer stove, add the water from the measuring bottle, and then put the metal
inner and plastic outer back together, secure the lid with the clips and wait.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-weMeQls6SNM/T6gVwYP5-6I/AAAAAAAAArc/O7Us6wxdAio/s1600/IMAG0007.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-weMeQls6SNM/T6gVwYP5-6I/AAAAAAAAArc/O7Us6wxdAio/s320/IMAG0007.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Measure bottle, plastic outer, metal inner, and lid.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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I followed the instructions and after a bit of a funny smell
initially, coupled with a bit of audible fizzing, and 7 minutes of time, I had
1 piping hot brew. The water was very hot indeed. I immediately emptied the
water out into a mug and refilled the stove. Worth noting at this point that I
displaced the metal inner section when pouring the water out, took a bit of
fiddling to get it back in given how hot it was, but I did it no problem and
resealed the stove. After 7 minutes the water was still cold….not good in my opinion,
would hope that given the cost of the packs that there should be more than 1
brew per pack. I resealed the container for an additional 5 minutes (13 minutes
in total) but still cold….maybe I did something wrong.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Well all in all, the stove is good, it can make a brew, or
cook a meal without the need for flames or leaving your tent. Great. Also great
idea for group leaders who want have concerns over their groups behaviour
around stoves (special needs groups perhaps?). It’s small, light, and does make
a good brew with minimal fuss, and whilst it doesn’t seem to be able to make 2
brews, it can keep 1 brew warm for longer. Which brings me on to the negative
aspect of the stove, 5 heat packs for £10 = £2 per brew, not ideal. But look at
it this way, as an item you don’t use every single trip, or as a convenience
item it’s a great piece of kit to have, and there’s not much that can go wrong
with it.<o:p></o:p></div>
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I am looking forward to my first morning brew in the tent
with the rain tipping down outside, something tells me that when I’m sitting in
my sleeping bag, warm and dry, that I will appreciate this item much more. <o:p></o:p></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04791907493613050112noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3051698882484311829.post-21130686276806481902012-04-21T23:08:00.001+01:002012-04-21T23:08:53.245+01:00Mountain Leader Assessment<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Hi there!
it has been quite a while since I last posted as I've been busy getting ready
to take my ML (summer) assessment. I took it last week at Blue Peris Mountain
Centre in Deiniolen, Snowdonia and passed!!</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">To tell
you the truth, it wasn't as bad as everyone makes it out to be. It was obviously
difficult, but if you have prepared, you will find it easier. It's a 5 day
assessment with tests you on your navigation skills, rope work and group work
skills. Me and my mates spent the last few months going out most weekends
practicing all of this. The logbook as well is important, you need to ensure
you have more than 40 quality days logged or else you will defer. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">There is
a 3 day expedition, so if you are still using old kit from your D of E years
ago, you may struggle. I'm not saying "go out and buy the best kit",
but it does help if you do have a decent rucksack, waterproof and sleeping bag.
The main emphasis has to be on being comfortable so you can concentrate on navigation
and your admin so that you reflect your skills well. If you are flapping about
being wet and carrying a heavy bag/not getting any sleep you may find it harder
to keep up your concentration. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Throughout
the week you need to remain switched on and concentrated on the task. Always
keep an eye on your map and the bearing you're on, as the assessor will
randomly ask for your position. This is the same for the night nav, just much
harder as it is night time. Which brings me onto the next point, a good head
torch. If you just use the one you got free with a tank of diesel from the
petrol station, you won't find it as easy as if you had a better one. I used a
Petzl Myo RXP, which has a fantastic search beam which comes in handy for
finding those cheeky contour features. However, last week the weather was
pretty foul and we had a misty night, so the beam just bounced off the mist and
we could only see when the wind made a gap. It is for this reason that a good
compass (Silva expedition 4) comes in handy for accurate bearings and a definite
pacing for 100m allows you to measure distance travelled accurately. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">A decent
but light tent allows for a comfy night. Me and a friend shared a Vaude Taurus
Ultralight and it was really good. Waterproof and sturdy in the wind, which
allowed us to get the sleep we needed (during the gaps in snoring). Sharing it
out let us keep our packs lighter. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">I carried
everything in an Osprey Kestrel 68, including my personal kit and group kit.
The equipment you have is pretty comprehensive, but if you have prepared right
leading up to the assessment everything has its place and nothing unnecessary
is carried. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<u><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">This is
what I carried:</span></u><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"></span></div>
<ul type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list 36.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Inflatable sleeping matt
(Mountain Equipment Helium 3.8)</span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list 36.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Inflatable pillow (poundland's
own)</span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list 36.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Sleeping Bag (Marmot Atom)</span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list 36.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Bivvy Bag (Alpkit hunka) </span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list 36.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Group first aid kit</span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list 36.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Group shelter (Terra Nova)</span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list 36.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Poles and pegs from tent </span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list 36.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Spare personal clothing (Ron
Hill leggings, Smartwool socks)</span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list 36.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Gloves (Mountain Equipment
Guide, Randonee and Touch)</span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list 36.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Hat (hand knitted) </span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list 36.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Spare group clothing (Rab
Generator, gloves and hat)</span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list 36.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Food and spare sweets (see
earlier post on use of smash)</span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list 36.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Stove and gas (Jetboil PCS)</span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list 36.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Waterproof salopettes
(Paramo Aspira)</span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list 36.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Waterproof Jacket (Mountain
Equipment Kongur MRT)</span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list 36.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Sweets and energy gels (Go Gel)</span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list 36.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Head Torch (Myo RXP)</span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list 36.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Compass (Silva Exped 4)</span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list 36.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Poles (Black Diamond Contour
Eliptic Shock)</span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list 36.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Bottles (Sigg and Nalgene)</span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list 36.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Knife (Edelrid sawtooth -
for cutting up food and general camp stuff) </span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list 36.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Water treatment (Iodine
tincture and Neutraliser powder) </span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list 36.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Rope (30m Beal climbing
rope) </span></li>
</ul>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">All of my
kit has been tried and tested since ML training a couple of years ago, I have
replaced some things for the kit above, like a sleeping bag (see earlier
posts). The clothes I wore were softshell trousers and Paramo Velez Adventure
light as it is what works for me. The list above is not meant to say what you
SHOULD have, it is just how I do things, you should make up your own minds. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">My best
advice is to concentrate and be confident with your bearings and pacing. Also,
brush up on your geology, nature, weather and history knowledge to chat whilst
you're on the move - however, don't get caught up talking when you should be
pacing, you may lose your distance measurement. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Good luck
to those taking their assessment in the future, and HAVE FUN!</span></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />Simonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06225671104057493929noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3051698882484311829.post-43322498538342309652012-03-19T18:59:00.000+00:002012-03-19T18:59:56.634+00:00A Beacon of Hope....<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HPamnjTgVAw/T2eB68gT0rI/AAAAAAAAAnc/1EDXinfs9-I/s1600/194071.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="145" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HPamnjTgVAw/T2eB68gT0rI/AAAAAAAAAnc/1EDXinfs9-I/s320/194071.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">£70,000 worth of damage done by racist thugs</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Hi everyone, I'd like to take a minute to talk about a good cause that I am currently supporting (and will continue to support)<br />
<br />
Sam Farmer - an outdoor instructor from Cornwall runs a project called "the beacon of hope project" aimed at giving young people from inner city areas and a variety of backgrounds the opportunity to get into the outdoors.<br />
<br />
Sadly Sam has been the victim of hideous racial abuse culimating in a second arson attack which destroyed the project buildings and equipment at an estimate of £70,000. Due to the first arson attack Sam was unable to afford the high insurance premium and consequently the damage is not covered over his insurance.<br />
A massive response on UKClimbing.com has given Sam his own beacon of hope, together we have raised over £3000, with donations of gear, support from other companies has also provided a new website, and support from Wild Country has ensured new climbing is available to Sam.<br />
<br />
An amazing response but we need more, if you can spare even a £1 it would help Sam get back on his feet, he is a genuine and caring guy who has been the subject of a disgusting campaign of racial abuse. There is no situation that this kind of abuse is acceptable, and I for one will continue to support Sam in any way I can.<br />
<br />
For more information please read: <a href="http://www.ukclimbing.com/articles/page.php?id=4515">http://www.ukclimbing.com/articles/page.php?id=4515</a><br />
<br />
To donate follow this link: <a href="http://www.thebeaconofhope.co.uk/">http://www.thebeaconofhope.co.uk/</a><br />
<br />
Thanks for your time :)Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04791907493613050112noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3051698882484311829.post-81799930198666448452012-02-22T13:20:00.000+00:002012-02-22T13:20:32.247+00:00Kit for my weekends away....<div style="text-align: justify;">As i'm in the lead up to doing my Mountain Leader Assessment at Easter, I'm frantically getting into the hills to practice. These weekends away are brilliant for navigation, ropework and group skills; but they are great for fine tuning the kit you take. Over the past few years my hillwalking kit hasnt changed a whole lot, just different rucksacks and bits and bobs. </div><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><u>Sleeping Bag </u></span><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">I used to use a Snugpak Chrysalis Autumn as my sleeping bag, it was great and kept me warm even when it was wet and is great to snuggle down in on a crappy night out on the Glyders. But it is massive!!! So a couple of months ago i was in Go Outdoors and saw a Marmot Atom for £69.99......its a £300 down sleeping bag!! (Although it is a summer bag and only goes to around 6celsius) So i bought it, because i had read some reviews earlier that week saying how great it is in Alpine climbing for use as a bivvy bag for nights out because its light but still warm. I knew I wouldnt be using it for winter days, but for summer </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TCzc4Km4-YI/T0TizQSykOI/AAAAAAAAANY/yZf0KH0bQzQ/s1600/DSC_0004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TCzc4Km4-YI/T0TizQSykOI/AAAAAAAAANY/yZf0KH0bQzQ/s400/DSC_0004.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;">ML, where I would like to keep weight and pack size to a minimum - a sleeping bag that packs super small (in a Podsac Spider) and weighs less than a can of coke. </div><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">After using it a couple of times; once for a wild camp and once for a bothy, I can safely say that I love this bag. I always carry a Down or Primaloft Jacket in the colder months anyway, so i just wore that to sleep in as well as my clothes.....which i usually sleep in anyway.....and i wasnt cold at all. Combined with my Mountain Equipment sleeping matt, i didnt wake up all night! Unlike my friends, who's matts deflated overnight and couldnt sleep. Then come morning all I had to do was compress it back down and stick it in my Podsac Alpine 50.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><u><span style="font-size: large;">Rucksack</span></u></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wh6PoUKcPgQ/T0TknGeLVCI/AAAAAAAAANg/OARxjF06FKQ/s1600/Untitled-1.gif" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="272" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wh6PoUKcPgQ/T0TknGeLVCI/AAAAAAAAANg/OARxjF06FKQ/s400/Untitled-1.gif" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">I had an Osprey Mutant 38 a couple of years ago, but i didnt like it because of the tiny fiddly buckles on it and I couldnt fit everythin I wanted in it properly. So I bought a Crux AK47, a fantastic bag (when fully packed). I had never had a bag with a fixed lid, so with smaller loads I thought it looked dead weird. I also found the shape of the straps caused chafing around my arm pits which after a couple of days of walking were agony. So I asked for a Podsac Alpine 50 after my friends gave it a glowing review. And i must say, they werent wrong. This is hands down the best rucksack I have ever owned. Its light, its basic, waterproof, easy to pack and the removable lid with roll top is fantastic. Its so comfy too, the foamy straps and back pannel are great for long days and the gear loops on the hip belt were great when i took it to Scotland. I can fit everything I need in this bag and still have room left. My hat goes off to Podsac. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><u><span style="font-size: large;">Food</span></u></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">In the past when I did my Duke of Edinburgh, super noodles were the order of the day. They are light, tasty and filling. However, that was when pot washing wasnt an issue (being on a camp site and all) and nowadays, scraping caked on noodle flavouring off my Jetboil in the pouring rain in the mountains isnt very attractive. Tins of beans, curry, and soup really are a thing of the past; aside from the weight, the empty tins need to be removed! And i dont really want a bag of dirty tins in with my kit. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">It was a simple revalation by my lecturer that has kept everyone I know from my University Outdoor Degree happy in the hills. The "Pour & Store" food bag has been the staple of our adventures for the past 3 years and we never go away without them. Theyre re-usable and they allow you to make your own boil in the bag meals as they fit perfectly in a Jetboil. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IzoW_DvRMic/T0TojHxhzcI/AAAAAAAAANo/objL5R2_AsI/s1600/smash.gif" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IzoW_DvRMic/T0TojHxhzcI/AAAAAAAAANo/objL5R2_AsI/s320/smash.gif" width="320" /></a>Its this stuff (right) that has been a new venture for me and I dont know why. My friend Tom suggested using Gravy granules and Smash in a bag as you'd only hvae to add boiling water and you've got a tasty filling meal. It really is fantastic, a bag of hot stodgy, gravy flouvoured heaven. And its super light so you dont have to worry about how much you take. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">The theme of powdered foods is the order of the day now. Instant Porridge for breakfast with added cinnamon or choc chips provides those added calories and energy for long days on the hill. The morning Coffee is paramount too, maybe spiked with a drop from my trusty hip flask. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">My friend Arran also found one of those tins of treacle pudding that you steam. It contains around 900 calories and when combined with custard, gives you a fantastic winter warming pudding. You just need to empty the tin in a pour and stour and you're good. Its slightly heavier, but worth it. Its stuff like this that makes me love getting out and about; trying new ideas and playing around with food. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div>Simonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06225671104057493929noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3051698882484311829.post-89502478161215558442012-01-31T21:43:00.000+00:002012-01-31T21:43:15.232+00:00DMM's new products for 2012 - part 1<div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: small;">Fresh from its 30th anniversary celebrations in 2011, DMM enters 2012 combining its technical engineering capabilities with an expansive knowledge of all things climbing to showcase an<br />
awesome collection of new products.<br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: small;">They have a new range of ice axes, new winter protection, a modern leash system, colour coded screwgate carabiner packs, and a whole new range of camming devices. As always, fulfilling the requirements of climbers throughout the world has been DMM's primary motivation. </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ekpM4H1ZkPg/TyhfWtsfLeI/AAAAAAAAANQ/E99lYk9X4eY/s1600/Untitled-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ekpM4H1ZkPg/TyhfWtsfLeI/AAAAAAAAANQ/E99lYk9X4eY/s640/Untitled-1.jpg" width="632" /></a></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: small;">The new DMM axe range is the result of 30 years of technical knowledge combined with valuable feedback from a broad range of climbers. The underlying requirement was to make a set of tools that offer exceptional performance and are built to withstand the rigours of modern climbing by being ‘bombproof’ - sturdy, strong and dependable.<br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: small;">They have engineered the light, balanced, and supremely strong ‘T Rated Integrity Construction’ method using full strength, T Rated components throughout, double riveting and high quality materials. We have encased the hot-forged handles with a highly insulated, durable, grippy, fully integrated moulding.<br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: small;">The new designs see the classic best-sellers being brought into the present with full strength ergonomic handles, fresh colourways throughout and handrests on the Fly. In addition they have introduced 2 new axes at the top end: The Apex and The Switch - modern tools for modern climbing. The range is an ‘all-mountain’ offering, covering everything from mountain walking and glacier work to Alpinism and modern test pieces. The initial impressions being that they are very similar to Petzl's Nomic and Quark but without getting my hands on them I can't say for sure. They do however look amazing and very smart.</span></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ApVVpbbHa_c/Tyheth5RQLI/AAAAAAAAANI/SmUdoHdeIB0/s1600/Untitled-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="238" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ApVVpbbHa_c/Tyheth5RQLI/AAAAAAAAANI/SmUdoHdeIB0/s640/Untitled-2.jpg" width="640" /></a></span></div><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: small;">In order to provide more racking options in our active protection range they have combined some of the favourite features from their two existing cams: the tried and trusted 13.75°, single axle head unit of the 4CU, with the justifiably popular stem assembly of the Dragon with its patented thumb press and extendable sling design. The result is a lightweight, versatile, and functional device that caters for climbers who prefer single stem ergonomics, for those who are used to our traditional sizing system, and for those who want to double up their cam racks to offer even more placement options.<br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: small;">The range covers placements from 13mm to 100mm in nine colour coded sizes. The colours follow the same sequence as the 4CU, but we’ve reversed the cam lobe colouring to the opposite to the Dragon for easily identification.With the Demon in the DMM range, we offer the worlds premium range of protection, both passive and active, for all climbers and all climbs.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: small;">Keep looking for the next parts of this series where I will detail each item.</span></div>Simonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06225671104057493929noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3051698882484311829.post-26755355496768617872012-01-27T22:13:00.001+00:002012-01-31T17:58:46.701+00:00New DMM ice axes - teaser video<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-k8pC7ZSmdXI/TygrxW-cXSI/AAAAAAAAAnU/ocT5TtFCG9c/s1600/Apex_and_Switch_ice_axes+copy.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="179" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-k8pC7ZSmdXI/TygrxW-cXSI/AAAAAAAAAnU/ocT5TtFCG9c/s320/Apex_and_Switch_ice_axes+copy.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Apex and Switch axes from DMM</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Released today was a teaser video from DMM showing glimpses of their new range of ice axes that are due to be released on the 29th at ISPO in Munich.<br />
<br />
The video confirms remakes of the DMM fly, raptor, and cirque, and 2 new names to the DMM axes range; the Apex and the Switch. More to come over the next few days but for now just a short video! Stay tuned for more as it appears!<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Video and more information here: <a href="http://dmmclimbing.com/news/2012/01/showing-at-ispo-munich-2012/">http://dmmclimbing.com/news/2012/01/showing-at-ispo-munich-2012/</a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04791907493613050112noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3051698882484311829.post-40612262167105261742012-01-20T17:47:00.002+00:002012-01-20T17:51:13.834+00:00Electronic Mountain Leader - 3rd birthday today!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-W5_d8rRuthc/Txmlp-VmJcI/AAAAAAAAAkw/F1dxYwoeRqo/s1600/iheart.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="163" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-W5_d8rRuthc/Txmlp-VmJcI/AAAAAAAAAkw/F1dxYwoeRqo/s640/iheart.png" width="640" /></a></div>3 years, 10's of 1000's of views, and over 52,000 words, I'm still here! Whilst I didn't publish my first article until August 2009, I published a series of smaller articles which I deleted, my first ever post on the blog was 20th January 2009 making today the 3rd birthday of Electronic Mountain Leader! These days there is a website, a blog and (launched today) the new <a href="http://theelectronicmountainleaderdofe.blogspot.com/">DofE blog</a>, not to mention a Copyright on the name, tonnes of web space, and not forgetting a new contributor in Simon.<br />
<br />
Thank you to everyone who's visited Electronic Mountain Leader over the last 3 years, and I promise I will continue writing articles as often as I can, once again anyone who wants to contact me with feedback, comments or questions please feel free! Many thanks also to the companies who have supported me by providing products to test!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04791907493613050112noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3051698882484311829.post-46707265029353240202012-01-20T17:05:00.005+00:002012-01-21T12:07:48.623+00:00New Duke of Edinburgh's Award blog and mobile app<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://theelectronicmountainleaderdofe.blogspot.com/" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="224" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6CYmwAmYVMo/Txmd7qvydnI/AAAAAAAAAkU/3M4YLe3UOFg/s320/dofe+blog.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>You may or may not have noticed the "DofE" tab that has been sat on the pages bar for the last couple of weeks, it had originally been my plan to integrate what I want to write about DofE on this blog, however it rapidly became clear that a separate blog was needed and so here we are <a href="http://theelectronicmountainleaderdofe.blogspot.com/">click</a><br />
<br />
There have been 4 major influences in my life which have lead me to become the man I am today; my mum,dad and family, DofE, Air Cadets and my education, all of which have been important to me (family more so than any other). DofE has always been something I have been passionate about, and I been involved in it since the age of 14 - both as a participant and as a leader, the whole idea of the DofE blog is to bring my passion for the Duke of Edinburgh's Award to people who might need some help, the new blog will feature DofE specific articles on all aspects of the expedition section of DofE including kit reviews, video guides and much more. The aim being to try and spread the DofE resources I have spent many hours creating to people who need them! It's still under construction so definitely watch this space and stay tuned!<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WDmldPxxQrY/Txn66r8JJbI/AAAAAAAAAlI/kNSVPwiKDq8/s1600/img.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WDmldPxxQrY/Txn66r8JJbI/AAAAAAAAAlI/kNSVPwiKDq8/s200/img.png" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Scan me (Android only)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>I also knocked up a quick Android mobile app using an online app maker, I do have a full app in the works that will hopefully feature a simple GPS feature, as well as articles and exclusive content. The app available through the barcode to the right is just a simple strip down version of the website, the content will update when connected to WiFi or Mobile internet, it's not graphics heavy so it's easy to view the latest posts! It also has Google maps with basic GPS functionality. Any feedback welcome!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04791907493613050112noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3051698882484311829.post-77765886440170507842012-01-20T13:05:00.012+00:002012-01-22T11:38:36.925+00:00Petzl NAO - the future of head torches?<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_f9e8t3vRqc/TxlfyZ506ZI/AAAAAAAAAiE/OoZV-gzDZuA/s1600/189543+copy.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_f9e8t3vRqc/TxlfyZ506ZI/AAAAAAAAAiE/OoZV-gzDZuA/s320/189543+copy.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">© Petzl</td></tr>
</tbody></table>RRP: £135<br />
<br />
Petzl's latest headtorch has been announced; the Petzl NAO will be available from July 2012....but what is it?<br />
<br />
Petzl's new NAO headtorch features a heads-up sensor at the front that adapts the light output of the headtorch according to what is required. For example scanning the horizon will result in the headtorch adapting to maximum output and maximum concentration, whilst looking at a map will cause the torch to reduce output and increase beam width. From Petzl's website:<br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px; text-align: left;"><i>"REACTIVE LIGHTING technology is a revolution in hands-free lighting. A built-in light sensor adapts the headlamp's beam pattern and light output instantly and automatically to suit the user's needs. This means the user gets an ideal amount of light with minimal manual adjustment required. This self-adjusting lighting mode also results in longer burn times, due to more efficient use of the rechargeable battery"</i></span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><u><strike><br />
</strike></u></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--MU8H8vXHvU/TxmAbU8bZjI/AAAAAAAAAik/IG37YDDmF5k/s1600/nao_page_techno_photo1.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="140" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--MU8H8vXHvU/TxmAbU8bZjI/AAAAAAAAAik/IG37YDDmF5k/s320/nao_page_techno_photo1.png" width="320" /></a></div>The diagram to the left from the Petzl site illustrates how the torch functions. The light sensor on the torch detects what light level is required, close range wide beams where needed and long range concentrated beams where needed. The result? Minimum adjustment needed, and maximum battery life. The torch weighs a respectable 187g - not the lightest but definitely a good power/weight ratio. The Nao also picks up where the Petzl Core left off - with USB charging (2300mAh Lithium Ion battery), however this can be supplemented with AAA batteries if required. The official Petzl press release is below:<br />
<i style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br />
</i><br />
<i style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">The Petzl NAO is a new-generation head torch that represents a genuine step forward in hands-free lighting.</i><br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 1em; margin-top: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><i style="background-color: none;">The NAO uses Petzl's innovative Reactive Lighting technology, providing light that automatically adapts to your environment. A sensor constantly monitors reflected light from your direction of vision and adapts the head torch output accordingly. This means there is no need to manually adjust brightness when switching between close or distant objects. The dual benefit is automatic optimisation of battery output, giving extended burn times. The Petzl Nao gives you the right light when you need it – automatically.</i></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 1em; margin-top: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><i style="background-color: none;">One of the big problems with today's head torches is the relationship between high-performance LED power consumption and battery capacity. The choices are limited; either unregulated light, giving rapidly diminishing light output, or regulated output where maximum power is only available for relatively short periods.</i></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 1em; margin-top: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><i style="background-color: none;">Petzl's Reactive Lighting technology allows your battery to optimise its output, only providing the power you need for the environment you are operating in. The result is that battery life can last at least three times longer than it would do under constant full power*.</i></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 1em; margin-top: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><i style="background-color: none;">The Petzl Nao features a front headset with twin LEDS and sensor, linked to the rear-mounted battery by the new Zephyr cord-lock headband. The battery is a 2300 mAh lithium-ion unit, rechargeable via an integrated USB plug. There is a belt kit version for the battery, plus a detachable top strap for additional stability when running.</i></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 1em; margin-top: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><i style="background-color: none;">Lighting is controlled via a large rotating on/off switch, which can be locked in the 'off' position. The switch allows the user to choose between Reactive Lighting or Static modes, with high/low output options in each. Static lighting gives a fixed output (non-reactive).</i></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 1em; margin-top: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><i style="background-color: none;">In Reactive Lighting mode the headset uses a single high-output LED in a wide-angled beam. In Static mode the headset uses both the wide-angled beam and a second high-output LED configured for a focused beam. Maximum power output is 355 lumens. Performance profiles can be customised via Petzl's OS 2.0 on your computer.</i></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 1em; margin-top: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><i style="background-color: none;">For 'emergency use', the battery pack will accept 2 x conventional AAA batteries. UK RSP will be £135.00.</i></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 1em; margin-top: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><i style="background-color: none;">*Required output will of course depend on ambient light and the pattern of your usage, ie how much you switch between near/far objects.</i></span></div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MQSDTRH7D90/Txlj2EmztyI/AAAAAAAAAiU/p240YViHt-0/s1600/nao_vue_avant.png" imageanchor="1" style="background-color: white; clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MQSDTRH7D90/Txlj2EmztyI/AAAAAAAAAiU/p240YViHt-0/s320/nao_vue_avant.png" width="268" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">© Petzl </td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="margin-bottom: 1em; margin-top: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">So what do I think? I think this looks really cool, Petzl have produced a new unique system that really does have potential for being a useful addition to a climbers arsenal. A torch that can adapt to reduce output when looking close to the crag placing gear, then increase output as you look up the route, all without fiddling around with dials and buttons, is a genuinely useful idea! However Petzl have included an override function for those people who prefer to be more in control! The Petzl OS 2.0 software can be used to fine tune the unit making it even more efficient, this is another nice little feature included by Petzl. Lets hope that it lives up to expectations! But thumbs up to Petzl for a unique and innovate idea! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Petzl also released a short video accompanying the press release, (see below) enjoy!</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><object class="BLOGGER-youtube-video" classid="clsid:D27CDB6E-AE6D-11cf-96B8-444553540000" codebase="http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0" data-thumbnail-src="http://0.gvt0.com/vi/FZb3k_x067w/0.jpg" height="266" width="320"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/FZb3k_x067w&fs=1&source=uds" /><param name="bgcolor" value="#FFFFFF" /><embed width="320" height="266" src="http://www.youtube.com/v/FZb3k_x067w&fs=1&source=uds" type="application/x-shockwave-flash"></embed></object></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: -webkit-auto;">Source: </span><a href="http://www.petzl.com/en/outdoor/headlamp/nao" style="text-align: -webkit-auto;">http://www.petzl.com/en/outdoor/headlamp/nao</a> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">or check out the NA) on Tribevine.com <a href="http://www.tribevine.com/product/11824/Petzl/NAO%20headtorch">http://www.tribevine.com/product/11824/Petzl/NAO%20headtorch</a></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04791907493613050112noreply@blogger.com0