DIY GARDEN: review

Showing posts with label review. Show all posts

Riverwalker’s Gear Review Instafire

Being able to start a fire is one of the best skills you can develop. It also usually requires some form of kindling or fire-starting material to make the task of building a fire easier and simpler. You also want to get that fire started quickly before it gets dark. Here’s a quick review of Instafire.

RW, Jr. left me in charge of the firewood for a short boondocking trip we were on and unfortunately my wood pile had gotten wet from a brief rain shower the day before. Wet or even damp wood can be extremely difficult to start a fire without some help along the way. It was time to check out the firestarter product from Instafire.

Instafire is fairly inert and very safe to handle. Although you should be able to start several fires with a single package, I opted to use the whole package. It does start easily with a match or a lighter and doesn’t flare up like charcoal starter or other readily flammable types of firestarters. It comes in a fairly rugged package that still manages to be easily opened by hand. A pile of the Instafire mixture was dumped in my hand and then added to the wood in my fire pit. With a quick flick of my Bic, I had a decent flame going right away.

It also burns really hot!

Advantages of Instafire:

!. It’s very safe to handle (non-toxic) and doesn’t impart fumes to items being cooked over the fire.

2. It lights easily with a match or lighter. These are the two most common means of starting a fire used by most people on a regular basis in most circumstances.

3. It works well for starting charcoal without the usual fumes from charcoal starter or ashes blowing in the wind from using newspaper.

3. It burns extremely hot and handles large chunks of damp wood with ease.

Disadvantages of Instafire:

!. It can be a little pricey but is available in larger containers to reduce the cost.

2. Although the package stated you could start several fires with a single package, it’s difficult to gauge how much is needed when your wood is wet or damp.

Instafire worked really well to get my fire started. It had no problem with getting my damp wood chunks burning. In less than thirty minutes, we had a decent fire. I probably wouldn’t use it on a regular basis but having some handy in case your firewood is wet or damp couldn’t hurt. It can also help if you have someone that has a low tolerance for some of the other types of chemical firestarters.

Got firestarter?

Staying above the water line!

Riverwalker

Riverwalker’s Gear Review Instafire

Riverwalker’s Book Review SAS Guide to Desert Survival

From the introduction to the final page with the Five Golden Rules of Survival, the SAS Guide to Desert Survival by Barry Davies covers the major factors that can affect your survival. This is a compact guide to surviving not only in a desert environment but a comprehensive guide that covers all the basic items and more that will be needed for your survival.

The contents are broken down into not only the basic requirements for shelter, water, food, and fire but also include helpful tips about the equipment you will need, medical priorities, and survival medicine.

It’s also compact enough to fit easily in your backpack or bug-out bag but where space may be at a premium. With over 150 pages of comprehensive information, it is presented in a useful format that allows anyone to access needed information quickly and effortlessly. This is one item that should be included in every backpack.

While the book gives many useful and worthwhile tips for survival in an extreme desert environment (or Texas summers), it also contains a wealth of additional survival information that is suitable for both the novice and the more experienced outdoorsman. This is information which could play a critical part in your survival.

From knots to fire-making techniques, the SAS Desert Guide to Survival is full of useful tips and plenty of illustrations to guide you in your quest for survival. It’s also available at a very affordable price that won’t wreck your budget or break your piggy bank.

Got heat?

Staying above the water line!

Riverwalker

Riverwalker’s Book Review SAS Guide to Desert Survival

Riverwalker’s Book Review The Wayward Journey

What would you do if you found yourself a long ways from home when all hell breaks loose? In his first book,The Wayward Journey , Nathan Hale Jefferson reveals how the problem of being separated from family can have a profound effect on everyone. From the perspective of the main character, John, a number of scenarios are examined that reveal John’s determination to get back home. With limited resources and even more limited options, John battles numerous obstacles in a determined struggle to return home and be reunited with his family.

Through the characters in his book an attempt is made to offer solutions and insight into the possible problems one might face in this scenario and the efforts that may be required to persevere through these extreme circumstances in order to survive. It does make you stop and think “what if” this should happen to you.

Nathan Hale Jefferson also keeps you up-to-date on the situation at home and offers a real life view of the deteriorating conditions in John’s neighborhood. This includes the main bad guy, Garrett, who seeks to empower himself through his own devious efforts, as well as the misfortunes of others. This gives you a lot of insight into who your real friends are and who is really the enemy. He also offers insight into how things might change on a global basis if the worst should happen.

The book is a quick and easy read which will make you think about things from a different perspective. With only a couple of places where the editing could have been better, you will find this book very thought-provoking. This is a very good first effort and there is a sequel in progress (The Fires at Home) which should be just as good, if not better.

Got Wayward Journey?

Staying above the water line!

Riverwalker

Riverwalker’s Book Review The Wayward Journey

My Shed Plans Review I

My Shed Plans is a complete guidebook that explains how you can develop a gorgeous shed from scratch. Ryan Henderson the author of My Shed Plans has given complete blueprints and step by step advice that even a newbie can follow. Shed builders can select from 12,000 shed plans and woodworking designs. Once you sign up as My Shed Plans member, you will get the complete package instantly in the My Shed Plans Members Area via downloads. There are comfortable to follow information provided in the members’ area just in case you have never downloaded everything from the internet before. After making the payment for My Shed Plans package you will find all the shed plans and woodworking blueprints within 5 minutes. This means that you find the product for a lesser price as there are no shipping overheads. However, if you wish buying the CD then you can buy that and it will be sent to you via mail. You will get audio-book version of My Shed Plans.

My Shed Plans Elite provide you a wide range of design to choose from and once you have the blueprint you will be able to construct your shed nicely and it will take not as much of amount of time to create it. It keeps all things simple. The aim of My Shed Plans is to make woodworking a cool activity for you. Once you follow Ryan Henderson’s instructions making shed will be a less time consuming and more cool thing to do. Woodworking can be time consuming but creation the right plans takes even longer. Some of the plans include a Garden bench, How to construct a Fence, Dog Kennel, building an easy Arbor,", Swing Pet, Nursery Wagon, Doghouse Plans, Outdoor Fireplaces, Feed Cart, Storage Shed for Pesticide and a lot extra. All in package of My Shed Plans.

Read Pros & Cons My Shed Plans

My Shed Plans e-book package that makes it possible for you become an expert woodworker and comprehensive projects in far less time than you used to. The book also teaches you how you can construct shed that expenses not as much of. My Shed Plans Elite presents plans for garages and outbuildings too. You can study to develop Large Garage, Elevated Sawdust Bin, Lawn Tool Storage Cabinet, Garden Windmill, etc. You will be able to construct a good shed much cheaper than the overpriced ready-made sheds that you see. If you have the resources you can build up a decent shed for nothing at all. That is important content in package of My Shed Plans.

My Shed Plans Elite will explain the whole thing in specify and you don’t have to be anxious about running out of ideas anymore. My Shed Plans Elite package comes with 4 bonuses. The first one is about foundation, roofing and the second one is about woodworking secrets and contains recommendations and tricks that may show very useful. The total price of My Shed Plans Elite package is $37 and there is a 60 days money back guarantee in case you feel like returning the package. 100% risk FREE. What’s extra, you keep the bonus books that you find with it. 5 star recommendation to My Shed Plans.

My Shed Plans Review I

My Shed Plans Review II

Ryan Henderson – creator of My Shed Plans is a good woodworker who has been building wooden outdoor sheds for over 20 years. In this guide book Henderson would amazingly tells you how to start building wooden sheds and woodwork projects easily and no matter what skill level you have right now. Even My Shed Plans will help you decide which shed project is best suited for you, how to execute it and bring professional results every time. In this guidebook you will find that building a shed is fun and enjoyable, not frustrating using method of My Shed Plans.

My Shed Plans offers the most complete home project resource you can buy on the Internet. It is bursting with plans for over 12,000 woodworking projects! You will find plans for birdhouses, garden furniture, sheds, full size decks, and everything in between. If it can be made out of wood, it will most likely be here. After all, 12,000 pretty well covers the gamut of whatever you might like to build! Toys are included, too. All plans in My Shed Plans are complete from start to finish, and include material lists, detailed diagrams, and explicit step by step instructions. Many different designs for each type of project are also included. For example, there are hundreds of designs for outdoor buildings, from small sheds all the way up to a complete stable. Choose whatever type of shed or storage house is right for you. Pick from fancy ones or more utilitarian designs. Choose it from 12,000 shed plans in package of My Shed Plans.

If you do not have carpentry skills, My Shed Plans have a solution. No worries. it brings you up to speed with professional tips and tricks used by the pros. Learn how to handle carpenter equipment, follow the right safety rules, and how to do your projects professionally so that they will look good and last. In addition to the woodworking projects, MyShedPlans brings you valuable information for all your home projects. You will discover professional guidelines for plumbing, electrical work, foundations, plastering, building codes, wallpapering, installing fireplaces, decorating, tile, stone work, working with cement and mortar, and so much more! You dont need to feel helpless if the faucet breaks. Install improvements like new lighting with ease. Got a new puppy? Make him feel welcome with his own doghouse. Finally you can be the handyman you always wanted to be with full & comprehensive guide by My Shed Plans.

Youll My Shed Plans package via instant downloads. The plans are printable, so that you can pick out your project on the computer, print out the plans, and have them with you when you go to get materials and then work on your project. It really is an awesome resource. And you can have it all, in one swoop, with a single, small payment. Save time and money, and get the satisfaction and pride that comes with accomplishment at MyShedPlans. It really is an awesome resource. And you can have it all, in one swoop, with a single, small payment. Save time and money, and get the satisfaction and pride that comes with accomplishment at My Shed Plans.

Read Review Of My Shed Plans

My Shed Plans Review II

Riverwalkers Gear Review The Predator 4000 Generator from Harbor Freight Tools

If the grid goes down for more than a few hours, you could wind up suffering a bigger loss than your lights or TV. That fridge or freezer full of food items can be a total loss if you don’t have a means of auxiliary power to protect your food investment. If the power stays off for an extended period of time, you will probably need a portable generator to prevent a catastrophic loss.

The Predator 4000 generator from Harbor Freight Tools has received a lot of very positive reviews from numerous individuals. This made the Harbor Freight 4000 peak/3200 running watts-6.5 hp (212cc) gas generator #69676 an excellent choice for a survival gear review.

Here is a list of the Predator 4000 generator main features:

212cc 6.5 HP air-cooled OHV gas engine

10 hours run-time @ 50% capacity

Low oil indicator and low oil shutdown

Heavy duty 1" steel roll cage

UL listed circuit breakers

Recoil start

Four 120 volt, 20 amp grounded receptacles

One 240 volt, 30 amp grounded receptacle

One 12 volt DC cigarette lighter port

First Impressions

1.) The generator unit I received arrived in a very timely fashion in only 7 days. The shipping time was estimated at 7 to 10 days. This was within the time frame specified.

2.) Straight out of the box I was very impressed by the fit and finish of the Predator 4000 Generator. A check for sharp edges, loose bolts or missing parts turned up negative. The paint job was excellent and exhibited no major flaws or defects.

3,) It also came with a small tool kit (Philips head screwdriver, spark plug wrench and an open end wrench), an Instruction Manual and a Quick Start Guide.

Straight out of the box this unit gets a solid 5 star rating.

Operational and Maintenance Features

One of the most important things about a piece of equipment is its ease of operation and the ability to perform routine maintenance in an easy and simple manner. The Predator 4000 Generator comes out very “user friendly” in this regard with only one exception.

1.) The Fuel Tank - The top-mounted fuel tank with a capacity of four gallons makes refueling an easy task. It includes a tank vent, top-mounted fuel gauge, a debris strainer and a large fuel cap with a retention chain. The large opening on the fuel tank made fueling the generator a very quick and simple process.

2.) The Control Panel - The On/Off switch, the outlet receptacles, circuit breakers and low oil warning light are all located in a panel on the front side of the unit. This keeps everything together and makes it easy to access and check.

3.) The Spark Plug, Air Filter and Carburetor - The spark plug is easy to access and can be cleaned or changed easily with the spark plug wrench supplied in the tool kit that came with the unit. The air filter on this generator (foam) was easy to access without additional tools, very simple to clean (soap and water) and then re-install. The carburetor also included a drain plug to assist with long term storage. This makes the maintenance of these items a simple task without any extra hassle.

4.) Oil Fill and Drain - This is the exception when it comes to operation and maintenance of this generator. Access to the oil fill plug is somewhat of a hassle. You will need a funnel with a long “flexible” spout or an oil squirt can (my choice) to add oil to the unit. Draining the oil also requires the unit to be tilted. This is something that could be easily corrected with the addition of an oil drain plug to the engine.

Overall, I would rate the operation and maintenance of this generator 4 out of 5 stars. While the majority of operation and maintenance is a simple task, the process of filling and changing the oil is simply not as “user friendly” as it could be for what will most likely be a fairly frequent task.

The Load Test

After filling the generator with the required amount of oil (approximately 3/4 quart or .6 liter) and adding approximately 2 1/2 gallons (half a tank by the fuel gauge) of treated fuel with a stabilizer additive, it was time to pull the handle and crank this new generator up.

1.) Light Load - The unit cranked on the third pull and the engine smoothed out very quickly in less than a minute. It was allowed to operate about 15 minutes without a load. It was then shut down and re-started. It cranked on the first pull and was allowed to run about 5 minutes before a light load was applied.

A small lamp was hooked up to the init and worked well with no noticeable increase in the load on the generator. All power outlets on the unit were then checked and found to be functioning properly. The generator was run with this light load for approximately 45 minutes.

An LP14-30 cord was then connected and a light load used to check the four prong outlet on the generator. This was also found to be operating correctly.

2.) Heavy Load - A heavy load was not placed on the unit because the unit requires a break-in time of about 3 hours and was only operated about 2 hours during this initial use.

Here is an update with the results of a heavy load test and the installation of a wheel kit:

Predator 4000 Generator Update

Final Impressions

1.) The Predator 4000 Generator is a very “user friendly” piece of equipment and all features worked properly.

2.) Its cost is relatively inexpensive and can be found on sale frequently which makes it an even better buy. The fit and finish of this generator was also excellent straight out of the box.

3.) Most of the operation and maintenance chores on this generator are easy to accomplish. The only exception is the oil fill and drain issues noted previously.

4.) The generator unit is heavy (128 pounds). Unless you are planning a more permanent installation, you will probably need to order the wheel kit that is available for this generator. This will make moving it to various locations an easier task.

5.) You also need to add a torpedo level to the tool kit. This will allow you to check the level of the unit. Units that are not level can cause problems with the low oil shutdown feature or affect how efficiently fuel feeds from the gas tank.

6.) Make sure to read the Owners Manual and Instructions prior to operating this unit.

The Predator 4000 Generator makes an excellent and very affordable addition to your preparedness gear.

Got generator?

Staying above the water line!

Riverwalker

Riverwalkers Gear Review The Predator 4000 Generator from Harbor Freight Tools

Book Review Winner Good Clean Food

We have a winner in our book review giveaway. Selene has won a free copy of Good Clean Food direct from the publisher.

Here is Selene’s winning comment:

Anonymous said...

This year we planted a larger garden.
Most of it was washed away in heavy rains. We replanted it. Because of health concerns, we feel it is very important for us to grow as many of the vegetables we eat as we can.
We have tomatoes, peppers, squash, peas, beans, radish, kale all doing well now.
Getting ready to plant some more veggies for fall harvest too.

Selene

July 9, 2013 at 6:11 PM

Selene, in order to claim your prize, please send me an e-mail with your shipping address so the publisher can send you your free copy of Good Clean Food.

Congratulations Selene!

Staying above the water line!

Riverwalker

Book Review Winner Good Clean Food

Riverwalker’s Book Review Fight Flight or Hide The Guide to Surviving a Mass Shooting

Here is an excerpt from Fight, Flight, or Hide. The Guide to Surviving a Mass Shootingthat really explains our responsibility in order to survive a mass shooting.

“The simple fact is that we, as a populace, need to become the solution to the problem.”

John Forsythe gives common sense advice on the actions that we can take as individuals to survive a mass shooting. He gives relevant and meaningful advice of how and when you should take cover, flee or take the fight to your attacker. Whether you are seeking to avoid being a victim, determining the proper actions to take as a guardian or quite possibly be an unintended hero, John gives simple, common sense advice that can be an invaluable part of helping you to become a part of the solution to the problem. You will also have a significantly better chance of being a survivor.

No matter your level of expertise, good advice is always useful. This book provides the good advice necessary to increase your chances of surviving a mass shooting. If you find yourself with the time to read only one book, it should be this one.

Riverwalker gives Fight, Flight, or Hide. The Guide to Surviving a Mass Shootinga thumbs up!

Staying above the water line!

Riverwalker

Riverwalker’s Book Review Fight Flight or Hide The Guide to Surviving a Mass Shooting

Riverwalker’s Gear Test and Review Stealth Flashlights

Flashlights are a great way to extend your operational abilities past normal daylight hours. Most are extremely portable and are simple to operate. Many also include additional features which can further enhance their usefulness. Sometimes required activities can’t wait until daylight and you are going to need some form of lighting to assist you with getting your work done. There’s also less chance of a mishap when traveling at night becomes necessary. You will need to have a good flashlight handy to accomplish these goals.

This review will cover two different types of Stealth flashlights with a very unique feature. They also function as a stun gun for personal defense and protection. This can add an additional layer of protection for you and increase the level of your personal security.

The two different models of Stealth flashlights and their different features we will be testing are the Model HW 1101 (medium size) and the HW 1108 (larger version). The picture above gives you a reference point in order to see the difference in the size of these two flashlights when compared with a pocket-sized LED flashlight that is fairly common and found in stores most everywhere.

Stealth Flashlight Stun Model HW 1101

Basic Features:

Stun capacity rated at 3,000,000 volts

Constructed of premium aircraft grade aluminum alloy.

Powerful 180 lumens LED Flashlight

Approximate 2 hour constant run time on single charge.

Recharging Hardware (car and wall chargers) included.

Two Light Settings: Dim and Bright

Attached lanyard included.

Compact and lightweight size (approximately 9 ounces).

Color: Black

Price: $40.00 plus shipping

The Review: Stealth Flashlight Stun Model HW 1101

Similar in size to your average flashlight, the lightweight and very compact Model HW 1101 does fit nicely in a glove compartment or console in your vehicle. This enables you to keep it handy for when it’s needed. It also can be easily carried in your back pocket or in a bag or purse. You may simply want to keep one by the door just in case you get an unwelcome visitor. This is important if you need to access it quickly in order to use the personal defense stun feature. This model also includes a wall charger and a car charger. Both charging units were tested and worked as expected. The cords were of sufficient length to make the recharging process quite simple. Having both a wall and car charger was an added bonus. The case of the flashlight was easy to grip and felt very comfortable. The switches were also readily accessible.

The stun feature (3,000,000 volts) was fairly localized when tested. Unfortunately, Mrs. RW wouldnt volunteer (more like refused...lol) to help out on this part and said this check was all mine. When used on myself, the stun was fairly localized but I did suffer a quick reaction to the stun when tested on my bare foot. It definitely got my attention even with the localized effect. Suffice it to say, this test was only performed once with the HW 1101. The stun feature only works when the flashlight is off and the slide switch on the unit is placed in the full forward position.

The flashlight worked extremely well when tested at night. It easily light up objects at a 100 yards and made them easily identifiable. The 180 lumens LED worked better than expected. The dim setting worked well also but the range was decreased by about half when tested. The lower setting does allow you to conserve battery life and extend the amount of time for working with light. This model also features a replaceable battery.

The price of this unit was also a pleasant surprise and had a very reasonable cost of only $40 plus shipping. This is important if you are on a tight budget and want to keep your gear costs at a minimum. Overall, the Stealth Flashlight Stun Model HW 1101 is a reasonably priced, compact and lightweight LED flashlight that has the additional ability to function in a personal defense capacity which makes it a unique multi-function tool.

Stealth Flashlight Stun Model HW 1108

Basic Features:

Dimensions: 9 1/2" L x 1 3/4" W

Stun capacity rated at 5,000,000 volts

Powerful 180 Lumens Flashlight

LED light good for approximately 100,000 hours.

Built-In Lithium-Ion Rechargeable Battery

Recharging Hardware (wall charger only) included.

Approximate 2 hour constant run time on single charge.

Battery is rechargeable up to approximately 1000 times.

Metal Belt Clip attached.

Lightweight (approximately 11 ounces).

Constructed of premium aircraft grade aluminum alloy.

Three Light Settings: Dim, Explosive Pulse (Strobe), Bright

Safety Switch Installed in the Base of the Flashlight to Prevent Accidental Stun

Color: Black

Price: $45.00 plus shipping.

The Review: Stealth Flashlight Stun Model HW 1108

The old saying “Bigger is Better!” can be applied to the Model HW 1108. This flashlight easily lighted objects at well over a hundred yards with ease. The three different lighting modes all worked as expected and the strobe function was an added bonus. The dim setting was also important since it allows you to still use the flashlight while conserving battery power.

While it won’t fit in your vehicle glove compartment, it does fit easily into the side pocket on your vehicle door or a large center console. While quite a bit larger, it weighs in at approximately 11 ounces and feels a lot heavier than its actual weight. If the battery went dead, it could still function as a nifty little club.

Due to its larger size, this model is equipped with a sturdy belt clip. This it allows it to be easily carried on a utility belt or even clipped to your backpack. The clip holds the flashlight securely while allowing it to be removed quickly and easily when needed. The belt clip is fixed and not removable. The design of the flashlight also has a very nice feel to the grip as did the HW 1101 model.

The Model HW 1108 comes with a wall charger only. The supplied power cord does come up a little short in the length department. You will need to have the flashlight in a vertical position in order to recharge it. If the charging cord had been somewhat longer, it would have allowed it to be charged in a safer and more secure horizontal position. This would eliminate the possibility of your flashlight getting knocked over during recharging.

The Model HW 1108 does have a separate switch that’s allows the stun feature to be turned off for additional safety. It is located in a recessed area on the end of the flashlight next to the recharging port. This is a great feature when you consider its higher stun capacity of 5,000,000 volts. The stun feature on the HW 1108 was also tested and my bare foot once again felt the full force of this feature. While also a similarly localized effect as the Model HW 1101, this did get a “knee jerk” reaction on my part. The stun features works really well. This test was also performed only once.

While less compact and only slightly more expensive at a cost of $45 plus shipping, the Model HW 1108 offers a safety switch, extended flashlight range, increased stun capacity and a strobe feature. The only major limitation is that it only offers a wall charger and the battery is integrated into the flashlight and is not replaceable by the user. It still affords an excellent option for a multi-function tool that can add to your personal security and defense.

Due to the stun features, these flashlights are not water-proof and can be damaged if submerged. Additionally, both of these flashlights carry a 30 day return policy and 90 day money back or exchange guaranty for any component related issues. You can purchase either of these flashlights by clicking on the links in the article or by visiting StealthStunGuns.com .

NOTICE

Please consult your State laws before purchasing. The vast majority of states do not require a permit to carry a stun gun but some states do have restrictions in regards to stun guns.

You can visit this link to check stun gun restrictions in your state:

http://stealthstunguns.com/stun_gun_laws

Ready to light something up?

Staying above the water line!

Riverwalker

Riverwalker’s Gear Test and Review Stealth Flashlights

Riverwalker’s Book Review Tribes by John S Wilson

“Tribes” is John S. Wilson’s prequel to his other survival novels Joshua and Traveler. In this latest edition, John manages to create some thought-provoking survival scenarios that are about as close to what can happen when the grid goes down and everything goes to hell. With a new set of characters, John has been able to create an entirely different set of circumstances to test his new main character, Tom, and his ability to lead a small group in his community as they struggle to survive.

From the paranoid to the psychotic to downright mean and sadistic characters, you will have a lot better understanding of what may happen should you face a similar survival situation.

Sometimes, survival isnt as easy as you may think.

Riverwalker gives ”Tribes”a thumbs up!

Got “Tribes”?

Staying above the water line!

Riverwalker

Riverwalker’s Book Review Tribes by John S Wilson