Omega's winter BOB

[Qasim]

Dear sir,

what is a fire blower (radio antenna and aquarium tubing)? And could you explain its mode of operation and utility? Do you really just blow on a fire through the tubing?

[omega_man]

Dear sir,

what is a fire blower (radio antenna and aquarium tubing)? And could you explain its mode of operation and utility? Do you really just blow on a fire through the tubing?

Yes, it "stokes" the fire and helps stubborn fires get going. I find it very useful in my AO where forest floor litter and deadfall is usually moist. The radio ant. segment allows me to "get in there" without melting the aquarium tubing. I got the idea from McCann's book; "Build the Perfect Survival Kit". If I'm car camping I get the same results by using one of those cheapy battery powered pocket fans.

[Kutter_0311]

it "stokes" the fire and helps stubborn fires get going. I find it very useful in my AO where forest floor litter and deadfall is usually moist. The radio ant. segment allows me to "get in there" without melting the aquarium tubing. I got the idea from McCann's book; "Build the Perfect Survival Kit".

That's awesome, I need one...

[omega_man]

it "stokes" the fire and helps stubborn fires get going. I find it very useful in my AO where forest floor litter and deadfall is usually moist. The radio ant. segment allows me to "get in there" without melting the aquarium tubing. I got the idea from McCann's book; "Build the Perfect Survival Kit".

That's awesome, I need one...

Aquarium tubing is cheap. I also found my antenna on Amazon for $0.99 I think. I made a couple for different kits. The tubing is also multi-use. Big win all around.

[88sport]

I'm looking into a pair of rain pants and I was wondering how you liked the REI pants and how well they perform. We've been getting rain the past 2 weeks almost solid, and my pants have been soaked.

[omega_man]

I'm looking into a pair of rain pants and I was wondering how you liked the REI pants and how well they perform. We've been getting rain the past 2 weeks almost solid, and my pants have been soaked.

In all honesty, I've never worn them beyond walking the dog and "camp" pants. They pack so small that they're good insurance if the weather turns. I do not think that they are durable enough to be your main "trail" pants. Also, being a laminate water-proof article of clothing, you really need a baselayer between you and the fabric to avoid getting all sweaty and sticky underneath. Working within these confines--they are great pants for what they are. I don't like packing extra pants, so it's nice to have something quick and comfortable to put on around camp in case my main pair get sopping wet (stream crossings, morning dew, sweat) and need to dry out.