Trail Tuna Noodle Casserole Recipe

Ever since I was a kid I've loved tuna noodle casserole.  It's that home cooked meal you need every once in a while...especially my moms.  She use to make it "perfect" every time and I try to achieve that about once a month on my own at the house.  As a follower of the YouTube channel UrbanPrepper I saw he was having a "Bug Out Cook Out" contest.  I wondered if I could make tuna noodle (aka tuna nooda as my son calls it) on my backpacking pot and stove.  So I generated a recipe and gave it a shot.  Here is the end result:

I'm very surprised how it came out.  I'm sure I could tweak the ingredients and make it very close to "my" homemade version, but this was darn near perfect on the first shot.  I searched the web to see if another folks were cooking this dish on trail (after my first attempt) and found a few variants, but they were nowhere near my version with a creamy mushroom base.  Total success as far as I'm concerned.

So now I can basically cook a home cooked meal on the trail.  Perfect way to prepare for a chilly night on the mountain.  Thanks for the motivation UrbanPrepper!

DIY Alcohol Backpacking Stove Test Burn

So this weekend I got into building some lightweight alcohol burning stoves for backpacking.  I've been watching Tinny and WoodenArrows on YouTube and they've got me thinking of how I can build some stoves and pots for myself.  

I started with some Dollar Store aluminum water bottles and some Miller Light aluminum bottles.  The video below is the first "useable" stove I made.  I pretty much crushed the first one (on left) when I was trying to fit the two parts together and the third (on right) I changed the jet arraignment to see if I could make it more efficient.  I used the beer bottles to make some lightweight versions that are still being finished.  I plan on testing those soon.  As you can see these stoves can heat water quickly.  This one is the stove in the middle.  I still need to build a windscreen and do some actual field testing before taking these little guys with me.  

 

Aluminum Bottle Backpacking Stoves

Gave it my first serious try at making some alcohol burning stoves.  This is from a dollar store water bottle.  Still trying to figure out the most efficient way to boil water.  Testing in progress see video below.

It's is done!

I'm back!  Just finished my first overnight backpacking experience.  It was everything I expected and so much more. I learned a ton!  My gear and pack out list need some work, but  I'm ready to share my experiences.  In the next few weeks I'll be posting on my trip, the gear and the lessons learned (some harder than others).  Stay tuned!  

Route Research Done

Google Earth is the sh!t!  I knew it could do some cool stuff, but these were scans to PDF's I imported and registered.  My whole trip is in all it's three dimension glory.    Heck I've even been scouting my campsite for the best views on my route.  Much more coming.  

Backpacking Trip

Been planning my backpacking trip for later in July.  Wasn't able to do the whole Art Loeb Trail due to a logistics issue, but I have a good alternative.  As I get closer I'll post my gear and routes.  Stay tuned! 

Art Loeb Trail This Summer

IT'S ON!!!  Today I dropped the idea that I'm interested in doing a overnight hike while we're on family vacation near Mount Pisgah, NC.  The wife looked at me and said "By yourself...your weird!"

With that comment...she picked up a MSR Pocket Rocket Stove and a few clothing items I'll need as a Fathers Day gift.  Not sure if they we're planned, but YES!!!  We're in business.

I've been a day hiker and camper for many years, but now I need to get my backpacking skills ready.  Watch me plan here.  

Back from Vacation

I took a little vacation to see the extended family up in Cleveland Ohio.  I haven't really been home in about 15 years so it was good to catch up with everybody.  While home I ran a total of ZERO MILES and ate about FOUR WEEKS worth of food in my six days.  So I need to get back on it ASAP!

It looks like I may get a few days on the AT later next month so I did a few productive things in terms of preparing.  I ordered the Maxpedition Fatty Pocket Organizer (Black) and got my survival tin in order. The fatty may be my FAK or tool compartment.  Depends on how items I have fit.

I had a chance to stop at REI, Gander Mountain and Dick Sports (all within a few days of one another) so I threw some $$$ their way as usual.

I picked up the following:

• eGear PICO Zipper Light
• Kwik Tek Dry Pak Multi-Purpose Case (Clear 9-Inch x 12-Inch)
• Outdoor Products 3-Pack Ultimate Dry Sack
• Dritz(R) Cord Stops - 2/Pkg
• 50 - 1/2" Side Release Plastic Buckles
• Also the gear to build a survival fishing kit

A few other items came in the mail too:

• Swedish Firesteel - Army Model, Black Handle (for my tin)
• Aviation cable key rings

I'm expecting the "fatty" to arrive tomorrow so I'll post up what I'm using it for.  My tin is about done and I'll post that too.  

Lastly I'm at a dilemma for what to ask for for Fathers Day.  The RAT-5, Tan Canvas Micarta Handle, Cordura Sheath or Snow Peak Titanium Double-Wall Cup 450.  The birthday is next month and the knife would be for both....  Decisions decisions.  

Good to be home and back on the site! 

     

Apps that may Save your Ass

Here are a few apps that I keep on my trusty iPhone just in case the SHTF and I gotta bug out!  I also have a AA charging cell to keep it going if the battery starts to die out.

I have several navigation and location based apps that are in other parts of my phone menu (listed below), but these are what I go to when I need to find out information quickly:

Flashlight - Pretty self explanatory.  Only thing is this one has several flashes and configurations you can use in emergency situations.  Also lets you control the flash for the rear facing camera.

Disaster Alert - List every ongoing disaster in the world.

Compass - General compass for land navigation.  No cell service required.   

5-0 Radio and Police Scanner - Databases of local police and fire broadcast.

SAS Survival App - Basically a media rich version of the SAS Survival Handbook.

iFirstAid - Basic first aid and lifesaving techniques with an automated read over and CPR timer.

Surf Report - For currents, tide and water temperature readings.

Weather Bug and TWC - Local weather.

Find iPhone - If I need to get a general idea of where my wife is or send her an emergency message I can through this App.

Survival Guide - Good collection of free survival techniques.

Other apps not listed in this section that may be useful in a bug out situation:

Google Doc's - I have several PDF's that have first aid and survival information on them.

Twitter - To monitor social media response to an event.

Google Voice - To make calls if the cell service is down (Wi-Fi required).

Google Maps - for directions (walking routes available).

iFM - Radio station feeds.

Paypal - Buy stuff, transfer money from you phone.

iBooks - View any PDF's you have stored on your iPhone.

Star Walk - Navigate by the stars even when cloud covered.

    

Paracord Fun!

I'm a recent Instructables Pro (paid) account subscriber.  I got it to download projects to do with my son.  While I was looking through I found a few quick paracord projects.  Pictured is the In-and-out Knot and loop Bracelet.  I made this to wear when I was hiking, camping or geocaching.  One quick cut of the knot and I have about 12-15 ft of paracord for use.  Plus it doesn't look to bad.  Post you photos if you decide to make one.  

Maxpedition Falcon II Backpack Review

I never thought much about buying a pack. I did however, put some hours into choosing the Maxpedition Falcon-II Backpack.  I started to focus on a cheaper pack that seemed to get good reviews, but it was hit or miss on the quality of two key items (straps and zippers).  I like assurance and if I'm going to spend $80 on a no name pack then I can easily justify the $110 for the widely known Maxpedition.  The quality is unmatched at the same price point based on what I found during my research.

My goal was to get a mid size pack that I could mainly commute (on bicycle) to work.  I also wanted to use it for day hikes and as a carry on for plane trips.  Size was a factor in my selection.  My old Longshot 70 was coming in about 1100 cu in of space.  I needed just at little more space for my haul to work.  I also own a TAG Chaos 3-day Assault Pack.  It's a little big at nearly 2000 cu in of space with limited compartments.  The Falcon II comes in a 1520 cu in and has a three compartment "stack" that can be cinched down if not used.

If money wasn't an option I would have chose the LBT-1547ARev Ranger Backpack.  Regardless of the size this is a perfect solution for just about all my tasks, but at $337 the Falcon II is a good 90% solution.

I wasn't sure with this pack in the beginning.  When I opened the Falcon II from the packaging it showed some signs of abuse.  Several of the pull cords on the zippers were frayed or crimped.  I replaced the worst ones with some paracord and cleaned off the dust.

Another issue I had was sometimes on the middle compartment the zipper would separate.  These YKK Zippers are self repairing, but I don't like to resort to that every time I go into a pouch.  Good thing is its covered by warranty if it gets worse or continues.    

After about a month of using the Falcon II I'm finding that I'm pretty happy with the purchase.  Following initial adjustments the pack now fits me like a glove.  I'm tall and have a narrow body frame.  The width and height of this pack allow me to take advantage of that when positioning it on my back .  I can haul a good load and not even notice it.  The narrow design makes it so it doesn't catch on anything (like in the isle of an airplane).  All my gear is finding a spot in the spacious 1520 cu inches.  Stuff I access more often is easily placed in one of the several organization panels that each compartment has.   The clamshell design is great for accessing deep into the bag at a moments notice.

It also has an area to carry a 100ml bladder and route for tubing in the compartment closest to your body.  I've read that a 100ml is a tight fit, but it can be done.   

I purchased two accessories for this pack which have enable me to utilize some of its features.  First was the  Maxpedition Universal CCW Holster.  A large loop field in the bladder compartment enables you to carry a weapon deeply concealed.  The loop field can be utilized for anything with Velcro, but the holster is a perfect addition to this pack.   The second was the Camelbak Bottle Pouch.  It's nearly identical to  the Maxpedition 10"x 4" Nalgene Bottle Holder, but its about half the price.  It hooks onto the molle with just a few snaps and can fit a standard Nalgene bottle.  

I have yet to be rained on or hike a long distance with this pack (coming soon).  Those are the only two areas I can't comment on, but several other reviews have.  I recommend you check those out for their perspective until I can get them in this review.

Bottom Line:

Pros
- Perfect size for my purposes (travel pack, daily bike commute, weekend hiking and geocaching).
- Compresses very nicely.
- Great build quality.

Cons
- Lots of straps (needs some form of management).
- Came with frayed zipper pulls.
- Zippers sometimes separate.

Verdict:
This pack has a narrow width that fits my body well.  That was an unexpected plus I had not considered when choosing the Falcon II and probably my favorite feature.  The compartmentalization is good for the setups I need (daily commuter, traveler and day hiker).  The main compartment compression straps can cinched down on any load and make it feel secure no matter the size.  I believe that system contributes to the "glove like" feeling you get when this pack is adjusted properly.  The build quality is as good as you've read about.  I think I may have gotten an oddball pack with my zipper pulls being damaged.  They were easy enough to fix I'm not going to make too much of a deal abou it.

I'm happy with the purchase and intend on getting several years use out of this pack.  This will be a part of my EDC and will serve as my wife's BoB if ever needed.  

Note: This is a "living review" posted after about 30 days (94 miles of commuting) of use of my Falcon II.  I'll be adding to it as I use this pack.  Please come back every once in a while and see what's been updated.  

Pocket Ref, Maxpedition CCW Holster and Smith's Knife Sharpener

Another order came in from Amazon today.  Here is a quick rundown of what was in this:

For when Google is unavailable!  Thomas J. Glover's Pocket Ref.  This thing has everything possibly imaginable in it (well just about).  A truly incredible amount of info compared to the space it takes up.  Easily going to go into my commuter, BoB and hiking configuration packs.

The second thing was an addition to my Maxpedition FALCON II backpack.  It's the universal CCW holster.  Now guess what's going with me all the time?

Lastly was Smith's PP1 Pocket Pal Multifunction Sharpener.  Nice little dodad to keep my tools sharp on the go.  Perfect size and versatility.

All these items were under $10 bucks each and make good additions to several of my "planned" configurations.   

EDC - Maxpedition Mini Pocket Organizer

It looks like the Mini Organizer part of my EDC is just about 90% complete.  I received the last shipment of items I wanted to carry in my commuer pack late last week. I have everything I need now I just have to organize the last few things and get them in.

One thing I still have not ordered is a Leatherman Micra.  I'm not sure if that's the multi tool I'm going to go with.  Still doing research on what's the best option for that last spot.  Any recommendations?

Camelbak Bottle Pouch

Picked up a Camelbak Bottle Pouch today to attached to my Maxpedition Falcon II pack. Unfortunately they only had OD green (and my pack is black), but it was only $11.95. I figured for that price I can hang any color on the molle webbing. That plus it's only for my long hikes where I'm carrying a days worth of water. It looks similar to Maxpeditions 10x4 bottle holder with the exception of it being nearly half the price. If it meets the task I'll buy the black to match.

The pouch is designed to work with Camelbak bottles, but fits standard Nalgene bottles Thats good to know since the 12 I own will easily fit. I'll post up some photos of how it fits on my Falcon II.

Maxpedition Falcon II Backpack

The Maxpedition Falcon-II Backpack (Black) I ordered arrived today.  I'm upgrading from an older generation of the High Sierra Longshot 70 as my daily commuter.  First impressions weren't what I was expecting.  Based on what I read in many reviews I was looking for a superior build quality to what I've encountered in the past.  It didn't scream that when I opened it.

I have a TAG CHAOS 3 Day Assault Pack that's built like a brick house. That pack could catch a bullet - I think.  I guess that's what I was expecting from my Falcon II.  Only reason I don't use the TAG is it's just too big for me to haul around every day (1976 cu inches of cargo).

The other thing that may be frustrating me is that I'm having a hard time arranging my "stuff" with all the new space. I'm use to a compressed, organized pack that fits me like a glove.  The Longshot 70 has 1089 cu inches of room while the Falcon II has 1520 cu inches.  That's a lot of real estate and it feels like everything is sloshing around (not the packs fault). I figure once I add a packed lunch an extra shirt and some flip-flops It may firm up nicely.

In time I hope that it will grow on me so I'm not going to make any judgements yet.  I need to break it in a little too.  My old Longshot has been with me for about five years and it would have stayed if it was just a little bigger.  I'm going to try it for 30 day's and I'll post a "official" review. Please come back and check at  for the verdict toward the end of May.  See you then!

Every Day Carry and Bug out Bags

During a recent effort to go green and organize myself I managed to unexpectedly "spend some green" in the process.  Lot$ of green actually. I stumbled onto a new hobby for myself I didn't see coming. The whole EDC, BOB, FAK etc... thing!  If you don't know what I'm talking about you may want to stop reading.  Be warned - once you've got the bug this can get ADDICTING!

If your a gadget guru, gear geek or tech on trail violator (like me) get ready to think of new ways to acquire more "stuff" while packing it in less space.  All while ensuring you have access to it all times.  The system of Every Day Carry (EDC) is a lifestyle of preparedness.  Its a process in ensuring you've got what you need for most of life's situations. To include daily tasks, confort items, basic tools and emergencies.  I also found that a huge and community exist around this type of activity.  If you don't believe me at last check when searching YouTube over 31,000 videos were available on the topic.  All showing custom EDC's.  

So I purchased a Maxpedition Mini Pocket Organizer and have mine all set up.  Still awaiting some items, but its all planned out and incorporated into larger kits I'm planning (such as my "BOB" AKA Bug out Bag and my Commuter Kit).  Here is the list of stuff I now carry with me "all the time".  It fits into my pants cargo pocket or I can move it from pack to briefcase in two seconds.  Bottom line it's always with me and I'm prepared 24/7.  

• Knife
• Flashlight
• Chap Stick
• Nail Clippers
• Keychain Light
• Spare House Key
• Duct Tape
• Pad Paper
• Sharpie
• Small Screwdriver
• Small ZipTies
• Extra Ziploc Bags
• Ball point Pen
• 10 Ft ParaCoord**
• Small Scissor **  (Micra coming soon)
• Razor Blade** (Not sure it's needed)
• Lighter
• Wetwipes**
• Carabiner
• Pencil**
• Matches**
• P-38/51
• Pry Tool** (Micra coming soon)
• Bandaids**
• AAA or AA Batteries **

As with any EDC...it's never finished.  Always evolving and upgrading.  I put this post up on a forum about "estimated cost".  You can see EDC's could easily go into the "thousands of dollars" depending on what you carry.  I have a few more items coming that will complete my EDC and support my "Commuter Kit".  I'll post up my EDC, FAK (First Aid Kit) and BOB when they're at least v1.0's.  Right now I'm in Beta :-)

One thing I do know is that if you need six feet of duct tape while in a public restroom...I've got it! Enjoy!

Maxpedition Mini Pocket Organizer

When I opened the mailbox today I saw my Maxpedition E.D.C. Pocket Organizer (Khaki) had arrived! I've been looking at packs and EDC setups to help me support my BRW campaign and this was one of the first things I needed right off the bat.  I'm going to get it all setup and I'll review it this weekend. 

Garmin 405CX Review

Usually I'm at the forefront when it comes to gadgetry, but for some reason my GPSR's upgrade cycle is a little behind schedule. I've just upgraded from the Garmin Forerunner 205 to the Garmin Forerunner 405CX with Heart Rate Monitor. The 405cx has been out for some time, but it's been out of my price range until recently.  I was able to sell my 205 for a great price on eBay making the upgrade very much worth while.

I logged over 1000 miles with my 205 and cannot seem to run without a GPS these days.  I love the data it provides. The 405cx provides me with all sorts of data both while its being used and after the run.

First impression: The learning curve to use the device was a lot compared to my 205.  The 405cx is a little more involved because needs to be paired with the heart rate monitor and you have more options to configure in the training mode.   Several other reviews stressed the importance of reading the instruction manual and what can I say.  They were right.  I did the typical thing and just started playing.  Spend five extra minutes with the manuals and you'll be able to navigate the device like it's second nature.  It becomes really intuitive once you understand the main functions of the bezel. I now take advantage of the training options I didn't' with my 205.

The construction: I've only had it a few outings, but the construction seems to be what you would expect for this device.  It's IPX7 compliant so you can run in the rain without worry.  The heart rate monitor is constructed well and is not to noticeable when I'm running.  Once you get a good sweat going the electrodes are pretty accurate in measuring your heart beat.  The ANT+ wireless module is absolutely amazing in itself (on OS X).  My device transfers data when I get within about 10 feet of my computer and pushes all that data to my online log.  It also works well with Daily Mile if you desire the social aspect of sharing GPS data.  I'm a little concerned with the battery life.  It's rated at eight hours of receiving and two weeks on standby.  Running I should be ok, but hiking may be another area where I may need to find an alternate GPSr to capture my data.  Bottom line is it's going to last if it's take care of.

Data:  What can I say.  I'm a data nut when it comes to running, hiking or whatever I'm doing.  I love reviewing the pace, elevation, speed and geographical information that a GPS provides.  This one gives me the added benefit of a heart rate monitor and programs my splits.  Tells me I need to run harder to get into the higher levels of my aerobic zone.  In the graphic you'll see a snapshot of what Garmin Connect will look like when you transfer data from the device.  It's enough for me right now.  You'll see you can download KML and GPX formats to integrate into Google Earth or any GIS projects you may be supporting.  Elevation data is available too.  This was a pretty flat run, but you can see the bridge I ran over at the beginning and end.

Overall:  I may be impartial because I just bought the 405cx, but with a 1000 miles logged with my 205 I can say it's a welcomed upgrade.  The forerunner series GPS's are my favorite for running and this is primarily what I bought this for.   As of now I'm happy with my investment.  It's money well spent for your beginner to intermediate cardio junkie like myself.  

Last Located

I typically try to update this on a regular basis.  If your near by send a message @rc4f on Twitter and I should get a notification.

GPS tracking powered by InstaMapper.com

GPS for Running - Forerunner 205 does the Job.

If your going to start doing any type of distance running I would recommend a good sport GPS  (Global Position Satellite) receiver.

I'm usually a "cutting edge" kind of guy when it comes to tech, but in this case my budget wasn't supporting a newly forming jogging habit. 

I started with the Nike iPod accelerometer.  It was good for a novice, but I soon found that it was off by 2/10 of a mile for every mile I ran.  Not sure if it was me or the sensor, but in my mind it was time to measure distance over ground.  I ran a few times with my Garmin eTrex in my hand and the decision was easy. I made the leap to a GPS and opened a whole new world to my training regiment.  At the time I decided I would go with the Forerunner 205. 

The 205 has done the deed just as well as any of the high dollar sport GPSR's.  It's a little bulky than say the Forerunner 405, but I prefer the large display when I'm sucken wind.  It performs as expected and I've found most software to be compatible with OSX.  It's a motivational for me to see those miles and calories burned stack up on the display.  I also enjoy reviewing my track in Google Earth or on Garmin Connect. 

So if your starting to push more miles out and thinking of introducing technology into you runs I'd recommend going straight to a Sport GPSR.  It doesn't have to be a super expensive receiver and may of the basic ones will do the job.  Good luck and post those tracks!

Here is what $80 will get you

Physical & Performance: (via Garmin.com)
Unit dimensions, WxHxD:	2.1" x 2.7" x 0.7" (5.33 x 6.86 x 1.78 cm)
Display size, WxH:	1.3" x 0.8" (3.3 x 2.0 cm)
Display resolution, WxH:	160 x 100 pixels
Weight:	2.72 oz (77 g)
Battery:	rechargeable lithium-ion
Battery life:	10 hours, typical
Water resistant:	yes (IPX7)
GPS-enabled:	yes
High-sensitivity receiver:	yes
RoHS version available:	yes

Maps & Memory:
Basemap:	no
Ability to add maps:	no
Accepts data cards:	no
Lap history:	1000 laps
Waypoints/favorites/locations:	100
Routes:	50

Features:
Heart rate monitor:	no
Bike speed/cadence sensor:	no
Foot pod:	no
Automatic sync (automatically transfers data to your computer):	no
Garmin Connect™ compatible (online community where you analyze, categorize and share data):	yes
Garmin Training Center® software compatible:	yes
Virtual Partner® (train against a digital person):	yes
Courses (compete against previous activities):	yes
Auto Pause® (pauses and resumes timer based on speed):	yes
Auto Lap® (automatically starts a new lap):	yes
Auto Scroll (cycles through data pages during workout):	yes
Multi-sport (changes sport mode with a press of a button):	yes
Advanced workouts (create custom, goal-oriented workouts):	yes
Simple workouts (input time, distance and calorie goals):	yes
Pace alert (triggers alarm if you vary from preset pace):	yes
Time/distance alert (triggers alarm when you reach goal):	yes
Vibration alert: (choose between alert tones and/or vibration alert):	no
Interval training (set up exercise and rest intervals):	yes
Heart rate-based calorie computation:	no
Customizable screen(s):	yes
Barometric altimeter:	no
Unit-to-unit transfer (shares data wirelessly with similar units):	no
Power meter compatible (displays power data from compatible 3rd party ANT+™-enabled power meters):	no
Sport watch:	no