I’m a huge fan of solar power systems, in particular, those you can build yourself. But, I understand if you want something that’s already done for you. Enter the portable solar power station in the form of the Solar Suitcase.
This is a complete portable solar power kit where you can use both an DC and AC plug and get power out. They have kits that range anywhere from 10 watts output up to 500 watts output. This is important to understand because it’s NOT the same thing as a 10 or 500 watt solar panel.
Be sure to read the product descriptions to understand exactly what you’re getting with each particular solar suitcase before buying. For example, it seems the smallest 10-watt unit (PSK10) only outputs DC but also has a USB plug and even a radio whereas all other units output both DC and AC. They also have a 20-watt suitcase ... continue reading...
Here’s yet another very cool item that Doug has sent my way–this time something called FireTracks which are reflective trail markers found at FireTracks.com–which was developed for hunting and early morning/night caching (or geocaching) among other uses. Doug says:
“The FireTacks are reflective, you need only a very small flashlight. You can place them on any tree or any wood (2×4) trail edge. There is a “stealth” option in them that is not highly visible in the day, as opposed to the bright colored ones that would be fairly easy to spot in the day. The use I am thinking of is to locate caches of food, or to orient yourself in the dark somewhere, in an off grid or blackout situation. They come in 2D (flat), 3D (triangle), 4D (square). They can be easily removed and reused elsewhere hundreds of times.”
And according to CacheAt Night.com (note: you can also purchase these trail ... continue reading...
Here’s another very cool “covert” gift idea that my buddy Doug pointed out the other day. They’re called Nite GlowRings and according to their website:
“Nite GlowRings and Firefly MiniGlows provide a safe, reliable and cost-effective visual tool for finding assets and locations in the dark. Generating continuous light output over a service life of many years and irrespective of weather conditions, temperature, altitude and humidity, a trigalight® will operate normally, helping the user locate equipment, paths and positions in the dark. Nine colour options enable markers to be assigned differing functions.”
They actually have three styles of glowrings to choose from, the Traditional Tinted Glowring as shown above, a Mini Glowring which is much shorter, and a Crystal Clear Glowring if you don’t like the tinted sort. Apparently, they never need recharging, have no battery, and last for over 10 years… which makes me wonder what they’re made of. Actually, you ... continue reading...
I received one of my Christmas gifts early this year over our Thanksgiving holiday, a set of survival playing cards, specifically a set about Survival Tips & Tricks. Without looking at them I figured they would be a bunch of completely “safe” or generic suggestions but I was surprised by-and-large by the tips I’ve read thus far, including:
adding important documents in your go-bag (gives a descent list)
a dozen uses for paracord
SODIS water purification
using your car as a power generator
why tarps are useful (I couldn’t agree more!)
rooftop rainwater collection
a few uses for feminine products for survival
covert evacuation routes
OPSEC considerations (including caches)
emergency sources of water around the house
There are more… 54 covered areas, in fact, when two Joker cards are included in the mix. Obviously, these topics aren’t covered in depth but they certainly are a good overview, especially for somebody who has no knowledge of preparedness. And this is the best ... continue reading...
Got this as an email from my parents (seen it before) but if you’re interested in helping out a truly good cause this holiday season, check out the list below before doing so…
SOMETHING TO THINK ABOUT BEFORE YOU MAKE CONTRIBUTIONS:
As you open your pockets to do a good thing and make yourself feel good, please keep the following facts in mind:
—————————-
The American Red Cross
President and CEO Marsha J. Evans’
salary for the year was $651,957 plus expenses
MARCH OF DIMES
It is called the March of Dimes because
only a dime for every 1 dollar is given to the needy.
The United Way
President Brian Gallagher
receives a $375,000 base salary along with numerous expense benefits.
UNICEF
CEO Caryl M. Stern receives
$1,200,000 per year (100k permonth) plus all expenses including a ROLLS ROYCE.
Less than 5 cents of your donated dollar goes to the cause.
GOODWILL
CEO and owner Mark Curran profits $2.3 million a year.
Goodwill is a very catchy name for ... continue reading...
This past weekend I had the opportunity to play a few hours of paintball with some friends and family at a nearby facility for my son’s recent birthday. None of us had ever been before and I can honestly say it was an eye-opening experience. Apparently, there are some people who take this VERY seriously. And, like the title says, if paintball is anything like what I might see in a real life firefight, I really am in big trouble.
As I’ve mentioned in the past, I’ve never served in the military or law enforcement and therefore don’t have any tactical combat training or experience. Of course, I should first mention that I can see how paintball might differ significantly from a real-life scenario but it’s likely the closest any average Joe (like me) is going to get and still live to talk about it.
In particular, I was surprised at how ... continue reading...
My buddy, Doug, pointed out this really cool alternative to snow chains made by ZipGripGo.com a week or two ago and I thought they were a great idea to share with you. In fact, if I had not already purchased a set of snow chains just a week or two before I was aware these existed, I probably would have went with this idea instead. Rather than explaining it myself, watch this video…
If zip ties alone aren’t quite your thing it seems they have a hybrid setup that combines the ease of zip ties with assurance of chains as shown here:
Personally, I like the idea of a set of “snow chains” that I can rely upon but don’t take up much, if any, space in my trunk. In my opinion, if you’re looking for something that can be there just in case you ever needed them, consider these snow chain alternatives ... continue reading...
A while back I was asked by the author to review his book on preppping for children, titled Prepper Pete Prepares: An Introduction to Prepping for Kids. I happily said sure!
Introducing the concept of being prepared to children–especially young ones–can be difficult for some parents to get the concept across. You know why you should discuss prepping with your kids, you just may not know how. After all, children tend to have short attention spans and, well, it’s all grown up stuff to them anyway. That’s where a colorful book aimed at children can help…
I found myself smiling as I read the book–the illustrations were certainly appropriate–and the message was a good one, discussing both reasons why you might be prepared and some good things to do to get better prepared. Obviously, this book is for children so it’s not like he’s telling you how to do anything, just the what ... continue reading...
It’s amazing how much of a homebody I’ve become the past few years. Granted, I was never one to jump at the chance to see the world so maybe it’s in my nature. Nonetheless, I really despise travelling, particularly by airplane. Not only is it a major annoyance with all the restrictions of things I cannot take on the plane, the now mandatory body sniffer, still needing to removing my shoes (which I forget to do and then freak out the TSA security guard), and so on… you know the deal. Disregarding privacy concerns, let’s talk about prep concerns…
You see, I think we preppers–knowingly or not–surround ourselves in layers of preps protection. This can be easily understood when you realize that you probably have an assortment of EDC gear you carry each day (the first layer), a get home bag and/or entire vehicle kit (the second layer) for when you’re ... continue reading...
You know, not everybody has a large SUV, truck, or spacious RV in which to bug out. Some of us (me included) have only a lowly four door sedan with which to rely upon. Originally, our plan–or should I say “my” plan–had always included the use of two vehicles so that we could take our “extra” stuff but a while back we had to sell one car and, hence, were left with just one. So, what to do?
Well, there were options, including a trailer and cargo hitch and even trading in our car for a larger vehicle but we elected not to do so knowing that we were going to have to drive across country for our upcoming move (didn’t want to drive two cars) and because we would want multiple vehicles in Seattle… one of which would be our current vehicle. So, we’re making do for a while but ... continue reading...
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I’m a huge fan of solar power systems, in particular, those you can build yourself. But, I understand if you want something that’s already done for you. Enter the portable solar power station in the form of the Solar Suitcase.
This is a complete portable solar power kit where you can use both an DC and AC plug and get power out. They have kits that range anywhere from 10 watts output up to 500 watts output. This is important to understand because it’s NOT the same thing as a 10 or 500 watt solar panel.
Be sure to read the product descriptions to understand exactly what you’re getting with each particular solar suitcase before buying. For example, it seems the smallest 10-watt unit (PSK10) only outputs DC but also has a USB plug and even a radio whereas all other units output both DC and AC. They also have a 20-watt suitcase ... continue reading...
Here’s yet another very cool item that Doug has sent my way–this time something called FireTracks which are reflective trail markers found at FireTracks.com–which was developed for hunting and early morning/night caching (or geocaching) among other uses. Doug says:
“The FireTacks are reflective, you need only a very small flashlight. You can place them on any tree or any wood (2×4) trail edge. There is a “stealth” option in them that is not highly visible in the day, as opposed to the bright colored ones that would be fairly easy to spot in the day. The use I am thinking of is to locate caches of food, or to orient yourself in the dark somewhere, in an off grid or blackout situation. They come in 2D (flat), 3D (triangle), 4D (square). They can be easily removed and reused elsewhere hundreds of times.”
And according to CacheAt Night.com (note: you can also purchase these trail ... continue reading...
Here’s another very cool “covert” gift idea that my buddy Doug pointed out the other day. They’re called Nite GlowRings and according to their website:
“Nite GlowRings and Firefly MiniGlows provide a safe, reliable and cost-effective visual tool for finding assets and locations in the dark. Generating continuous light output over a service life of many years and irrespective of weather conditions, temperature, altitude and humidity, a trigalight® will operate normally, helping the user locate equipment, paths and positions in the dark. Nine colour options enable markers to be assigned differing functions.”
They actually have three styles of glowrings to choose from, the Traditional Tinted Glowring as shown above, a Mini Glowring which is much shorter, and a Crystal Clear Glowring if you don’t like the tinted sort. Apparently, they never need recharging, have no battery, and last for over 10 years… which makes me wonder what they’re made of. Actually, you ... continue reading...
I received one of my Christmas gifts early this year over our Thanksgiving holiday, a set of survival playing cards, specifically a set about Survival Tips & Tricks. Without looking at them I figured they would be a bunch of completely “safe” or generic suggestions but I was surprised by-and-large by the tips I’ve read thus far, including:
adding important documents in your go-bag (gives a descent list)
a dozen uses for paracord
SODIS water purification
using your car as a power generator
why tarps are useful (I couldn’t agree more!)
rooftop rainwater collection
a few uses for feminine products for survival
covert evacuation routes
OPSEC considerations (including caches)
emergency sources of water around the house
There are more… 54 covered areas, in fact, when two Joker cards are included in the mix. Obviously, these topics aren’t covered in depth but they certainly are a good overview, especially for somebody who has no knowledge of preparedness. And this is the best ... continue reading...
Got this as an email from my parents (seen it before) but if you’re interested in helping out a truly good cause this holiday season, check out the list below before doing so…
SOMETHING TO THINK ABOUT BEFORE YOU MAKE CONTRIBUTIONS:
As you open your pockets to do a good thing and make yourself feel good, please keep the following facts in mind:
—————————-
The American Red Cross
President and CEO Marsha J. Evans’
salary for the year was $651,957 plus expenses
MARCH OF DIMES
It is called the March of Dimes because
only a dime for every 1 dollar is given to the needy.
The United Way
President Brian Gallagher
receives a $375,000 base salary along with numerous expense benefits.
UNICEF
CEO Caryl M. Stern receives
$1,200,000 per year (100k permonth) plus all expenses including a ROLLS ROYCE.
Less than 5 cents of your donated dollar goes to the cause.
GOODWILL
CEO and owner Mark Curran profits $2.3 million a year.
Goodwill is a very catchy name for ... continue reading...
This past weekend I had the opportunity to play a few hours of paintball with some friends and family at a nearby facility for my son’s recent birthday. None of us had ever been before and I can honestly say it was an eye-opening experience. Apparently, there are some people who take this VERY seriously. And, like the title says, if paintball is anything like what I might see in a real life firefight, I really am in big trouble.
As I’ve mentioned in the past, I’ve never served in the military or law enforcement and therefore don’t have any tactical combat training or experience. Of course, I should first mention that I can see how paintball might differ significantly from a real-life scenario but it’s likely the closest any average Joe (like me) is going to get and still live to talk about it.
In particular, I was surprised at how ... continue reading...
My buddy, Doug, pointed out this really cool alternative to snow chains made by ZipGripGo.com a week or two ago and I thought they were a great idea to share with you. In fact, if I had not already purchased a set of snow chains just a week or two before I was aware these existed, I probably would have went with this idea instead. Rather than explaining it myself, watch this video…
If zip ties alone aren’t quite your thing it seems they have a hybrid setup that combines the ease of zip ties with assurance of chains as shown here:
Personally, I like the idea of a set of “snow chains” that I can rely upon but don’t take up much, if any, space in my trunk. In my opinion, if you’re looking for something that can be there just in case you ever needed them, consider these snow chain alternatives ... continue reading...
A while back I was asked by the author to review his book on preppping for children, titled Prepper Pete Prepares: An Introduction to Prepping for Kids. I happily said sure!
Introducing the concept of being prepared to children–especially young ones–can be difficult for some parents to get the concept across. You know why you should discuss prepping with your kids, you just may not know how. After all, children tend to have short attention spans and, well, it’s all grown up stuff to them anyway. That’s where a colorful book aimed at children can help…
I found myself smiling as I read the book–the illustrations were certainly appropriate–and the message was a good one, discussing both reasons why you might be prepared and some good things to do to get better prepared. Obviously, this book is for children so it’s not like he’s telling you how to do anything, just the what ... continue reading...
It’s amazing how much of a homebody I’ve become the past few years. Granted, I was never one to jump at the chance to see the world so maybe it’s in my nature. Nonetheless, I really despise travelling, particularly by airplane. Not only is it a major annoyance with all the restrictions of things I cannot take on the plane, the now mandatory body sniffer, still needing to removing my shoes (which I forget to do and then freak out the TSA security guard), and so on… you know the deal. Disregarding privacy concerns, let’s talk about prep concerns…
You see, I think we preppers–knowingly or not–surround ourselves in layers of preps protection. This can be easily understood when you realize that you probably have an assortment of EDC gear you carry each day (the first layer), a get home bag and/or entire vehicle kit (the second layer) for when you’re ... continue reading...
You know, not everybody has a large SUV, truck, or spacious RV in which to bug out. Some of us (me included) have only a lowly four door sedan with which to rely upon. Originally, our plan–or should I say “my” plan–had always included the use of two vehicles so that we could take our “extra” stuff but a while back we had to sell one car and, hence, were left with just one. So, what to do?
Well, there were options, including a trailer and cargo hitch and even trading in our car for a larger vehicle but we elected not to do so knowing that we were going to have to drive across country for our upcoming move (didn’t want to drive two cars) and because we would want multiple vehicles in Seattle… one of which would be our current vehicle. So, we’re making do for a while but ... continue reading...
