Hunting Equipment

Best Hunting Backpack for the Money

Review of the Top 5 Hunting Backpacks in the Market

When most people first hear about hunting as a child, they imagine a hunter alone in the woods with nothing but their wits and their weapon. In reality, it takes a lot more than that to safely and comfortably go on a hunt. You need water for hydration; extra ammunition in case your first shots miss, and the tools necessary to start cleaning and dressing your kills.

This is too much for a hunter to carry in their bare hands, which is where one needs the best hunting backpack for the money. A backpack allows you to keep your supplies on you at all times while still keeping your hands free.

Not just any backpack will do when it comes to hunting. A hunting backpack needs to be a little more durable than the average bag you’ll find in most stores. You never know what the weather might do while you’re on a hunt, so a hunting backpack should be made from water-repellent materials. It should also have enough room to hold all of the supplies you’ll need on hand when you’re hunting. Just how much storage space is needed varies from hunter to hunter, so will be looking at backpacks that come in a variety of different sizes.

Each of the five backpacks we’ll look at has different strengths, so look out for the pack that best fits your hunting style.

5.11 Tactical RUSH72 Backpack

  • Available in 7 color schemes
  • Made from nylon
  • 23 inches high, 13.5 inches wide long, and 8.5 inches deep
  • 66-liter total storage capacity
  • 8-pound empty weight
  • Limited warranty when purchased from an authorized dealer

The RUSH72 backpack from 5.11 Tactical is a workhorse of a bag, built to get the job done with no muss or fuss. The look isn’t flashy, but 5.11 has fit a surprising number of features into this nylon backpack. As soon as you start opening up compartments and you’ll find a wide variety of small pockets tucked away inside, allowing hunters to keep their backpack nicely organized.

5.11 Tactical RUSH72 Backpack

The bag has a large main compartment and three smaller compartments on the front of the bag and on its sides. When the rain starts coming down the water-repellent nylon used to make this bag will help to keep its contents safe and dry. Please note that water-repellant is different from water-proof, the bag should still be kept as dry as possible. The foam used in the shoulder straps strikes a nice balance between softness and firmness, making it possible to comfortably carry this backpack for hours on end.

If you’re looking for a backpack that fits your style, then you should know that this bag comes in 7 different color schemes. The colors are the sort you’d expect from a hunting backpack. They include black, olive green, and an iconic camouflage pattern. The name of the bag comes from the fact that it’s large enough that you call store everything you need for three days or 72 hours. That should tell you something about the size of this bag; it is not a small accessory.

Some will love the fact that this bag can hold everything you need for a long weekend worth of hunting, but others will find that the bag is overkill. The RUSH72 isn’t a bag built for children or for afternoon hikes. Fortunately, 5.11 Tactical makes variations on the design that come in different sizes. Anyone looking for a hunting bag that gets the fundamentals right should give the RUSH72 a serious look.

SOG Ninja Tactical Day Pack, 24.2-Liter Storage

  • Available in 6 color schemes
  • Made from polyester
  • 18 inches high, 13.5 inches wide long, and 8.5 inches deep
  • 2-liter total storage capacity
  • 9-pound empty weight
  • Lifetime manufacturer’s warranty

The Ninja Tactical Day Pack from SOG is one of the best hunting backpacks for the money and is a dependable bag that has everything you need and nothing that you don’t. The easiest thing to notice is how compact it is. There are only two sizable compartments, larger main compartment and a smaller secondary compartment.

SOG Ninja Tactical Day Pack

But if you open these up, you’ll find that there are also zipped pockets for further organization. If that’s not enough for you, then the MOLLE webbing weaved into the design allows owners to expand the bag’s capabilities. Another nice addition is the pouch on the side that is built to hold just about any sort of bottle you might want to bring along to help you stay hydrated. The backpack doesn’t come with a bladder, but it does have space where you can put one for the easy access to your water when you’re on the trail.

The look of the bag is nice, and it comes in six different color schemes, so you’re sure to find something that you like. The one real drawback design-wise is the strange looking velcro skull patch. Some will enjoy it, but most will be better off looking for a more personal patch to cover it up with. This backpack is a medium-sized design, so it’s perfect if you’re planning an overnight trip, but it might be a little restricting if you want to go hunting for more than one day.

The smaller backpack size also makes it a great choice for the younger hunters out there. For day trips and overnight expeditions, this bag will be able to hold everything you need to hunt safely. Finally, SOG offers a lifetime warranty that covers manufacturing defects so that you can buy a new Ninja Tactical Day Pack with confidence.

Badlands 2200 Camouflage Hunting Backpack

  • Available in 1 color schemes
  • Made from KXO-32 fabric
  • 26 inches high, 16 inches wide long, and 10 inches deep
  • 22.5-liter total storage capacity
  • 5.9-pound empty weight
  • Unconditional warranty

The 2200 model hunting backpack from Badlands is designed to withstand whatever nature throws its way. It’s a bag built to shepherd its contents through the harshest of elements and come away without so much as a tear or a scratch. It’s also a true hunting backpack, as seen in the fact that it has a built-in rifle boot, pistol holster, and meat shelf.

Badlands 2200 Camouflage Hunting Backpack

You can wear this backpack while hiking, but only hunters will be able to use all of its features. The backpack is covered with a very neutral approach camouflage that will work in a wide range of settings. With that being said, it is a bit disappointing that Badlands only offers one color scheme. If you’re set on a black backpack, then you’ll need to look elsewhere. Still, this backpack has in iconic will satisfy most hunters.

What sets this bag apart isn’t what it looks like, it’s what it’s made of. SOG uses a proprietary material known as KXO-32 fabric that is specifically designed for hunters. It’s built to be durable, waterproof, and completely quiet. No more worrying about the sound of your backpack’s fabric alerting any nearby game. The main downside of this bag is that it weighs a significant amount, especially when you look at its storage capacity.

The bag weighs almost 6 pounds unpacked, so if you want to travel light, you might want to look elsewhere. With a capacity of 22.5 liters this bag is great for single day hunts, but if you’re looking to pack up everything you need for a weekend in the forest, it might not be enough. None of these factors are necessarily faults in the design; they simply speak to the target market that this backpack is aimed at.

This bag isn’t the lightest or the biggest, but every piece of this backpack was crafted with hunters in mind. This is the backpack that hunters have been dreaming about.

TETON Sports Explorer 4000 Internal Frame Backpack

  • Available in 3 color schemes
  • Made from ripstop fabric
  • 32 inches high, 18 inches wide long, and 12 inches deep
  • 64-liter total storage capacity
  • 5-pound empty weight
  • Limited lifetime warranty

While some bags are designed for short hikes, the Sports Explorer 4000 from TETON is built for the long haul. This is a bag for someone who wants to pack days worth of supplies into a single bag so they can trek through nature for days without anything but the items on their back.

All together this bag has 65 liters worth of storage capacity! This bag’s biggest selling point can also be seen as its biggest drawback. Many will see this bag as simply too big at two and a half feet tall. One surprising thing about this bag is that it is relatively light for its size, weighing just five pounds empty.

TETON Sports Explorer 4000 Internal Frame Backpack

After looking at so many bags that only come in green, grey and camouflage, it’s a pleasant surprise to find that this bag comes in a relatively cheery light blue. Another nice bonus is the fact that this bag comes with a built-in 3-liter bladder that you can use to stay hydrated on the go. With the Sports Explorer 4000, you can drink and carry your supplies completely hands-free. The bag is made of a durable and water-resistant ripstop material, but it also offers an extra level of protection when the rain starts falling. Inside the bag you’ll find a built-in rainfly to help keep your supplies as dry as possible.

TETON offers additional protection in the form of a limited lifetime warranty covering new backpacks. This bag is the biggest on our list, but it’s more than just a big bag. If you’re the type of hunter that also enjoys long hikes, then this bag will give you everything you need to pack for the most epic hunt of your life.

ALPS OutdoorZ Pursuit Hunting Back Pack

  • Available in 2 color schemes
  • Made from ripstop fabric
  • 32 inches high, 18 inches wide long, and 12 inches deep
  • 44-liter total storage capacity
  • 6-pound empty weight
  • Limited lifetime warranty

If it wasn’t for the camo color scheme, this backpack might look not look like a hunting bag at first glance, but looks can be deceiving. This deceptively simple looking bag is packed with features that hunters will love. Bow hunters should give this bag special attention.

Not only is there a pocket that can securely hold a bow or a gun, but there are also quiver holders built into the bag. No need to fumble with your arrows as you carry them along, this bag makes sure they’re securely stored and easy to access at a moments notice. To build on this theme, the bag has a fold out shelf so that its contents can be as organized and easy to reach as possible when you’re deep in the hunt.

ALPS OutdoorZ Pursuit Hunting Back Pack

One minor disappointment is the color options. Both of the choices offer a traditional woodland-camouflage look. They’re nice enough, but it would have been better if the themes were more visually distinct. This is a minor nitpick in the grand scheme of things. If you do want to stand out or stay dry, then you can pull out the bright orange rain cover that comes with the bag.

This last feature is important to remember because the bag itself isn’t waterproof. When you add together the classic look, special features, and 44 liters worth of storage you get something special. Overall the OutdoorZ Pursuit Hunting Backpack is an exceptional product that has everything a hunter could want.

Picking the Best Hunting Backpack for the Money for Your Hunting Needs

Each of the five backpacks that we examined brings something different to the table and are definitely prime contenders for the title of the best hunting backpack for the money. Any of them could help you carry your supplies out on your next hunt, but if you want the best experience possible you need to pick the pack that is designed to match your unique needs.

So take some time to think about whether you want a bag that is large and heavy duty or small and highly portable. If you think about what you want in terms of storage capacity, features, and color, then you’ll have an easy time picking the backpack that will help your next hunting trip go as smoothly as possible.

A little thought upfront will save you a lot of hassle when you hit the trail.

Best Recurve Bow in the World

The Definitive Guide to Choosing the Best Recurve Bow in the World

Archery is a great hobby to take up, but if you want to get the most out of your experience, you need the right tool for the job. The most popular type of bow for modern archers is the recurve bow. The name comes from the fact that the limbs curve away from the archer at the top and bottom. This design allows more energy to build up in the string without increasing the axle-to-axle length of the bow any more than necessary.

Recurve bows have been around for thousands of years, but they’ve gained popularity in modern times because the advanced materials and construction techniques available allow for recurve bows that can handle the extra power generated by the design. Today recurve bows are the only kind of bow that archers can use in the Olympics. But how do you decide which is the best recurve bow in the world or which is the best starter recurve bow?

Best Recurve Bow in the World

Deciding on buying a recurve bow is an easy decision to make, but it’s more difficult choosing which model to purchase. There are many different attractive bows on the market today. The first thing to remember when looking for the right recurve bow it’s important to remember that there is no one model that is perfect for everyone.

You need to consider things like length, draw pounds, and the total package. The younger the archer, the shorter the bow should be and the lower the number of draw pounds should be. But older and more advanced archers will require a longer and more powerful bow.

This might seem like it’s a lot to consider, but don’t worry. We’ve gone through the most popular recurve bows on the market today and sorted through them to discover the top models. Each of these bows has strengths and weaknesses that we will discuss in detail so that you can find the best recurve bow that suits your unique needs.

No bow can magically transform you into a master archer, but the right bow can make it much easier to practice until you’re consistently hitting the bullseye. Let’s now take a detailed look and review my Top 5 choices for the best recurve bow in the world.

Southwest Archery Spyder Takedown Recurve Bow and Arrow Set

If you’re looking for an accurate, comfortable, and durable bow that’s available for an affordable price, then the Spyder Takedown Recurve Bow from Southwest Archery is just the thing for you. This bow is a great option for just about anyone interested in archery.

There are sizes available ranging from 20 pounds to 60 pounds, increasing in 5-pound increments. This means that you can pick the perfect size for your strength and body type. There’s also the option to buy a package that includes a stringer tool, which is required to install or remove the bowstring. If this is your first bow, you’ll either need to get a package with a stringer tool or buy one separately.

Southwest Archery Spyder Takedown Recurve Bow and Arrow Set

Finally, you can purchase this bow with confidence because new bows from Southwest Archery are eligible for a 1-year manufacturer warranty. Just make sure to register your new bow online to receive the coverage you deserve.

  • 62 inches axle-to-axle.
  • 29-inch max draw length
  • 5-8.25 inch brace height
  • 20-60 draw pounds
  • Ships with 14 strand Dacron string, riser, matching limbs, rest, and instructions.
  • Covered by 1-year manufacturer warranty

Genesis Original Bow

If you’re shopping for an young archer then the Genesis Original bow is just what they need to get a great start in archery. It can be used by archers of all ages but it’s best for children between the ages of 8 and 16. The bow is a nice size for younger archers and has a solid draw strength range. You can adjust the draw strength on this bow to fit your needs, moving it between 10 and twenty pounds with a few twists of a wrench.

The design is also cool and colorful, which children will love. If you’re looking for a colorful bow then this is a great option. It’s available in twelve different colors, ranging from black, to camo, and even pink. It should be noted that this is just a bow. It’s also nice that both right and left hand variations are available, so you can get the design that you’ll be most comfortable with. The main drawback with this design is that while it’s perfect for younger archers it might not have the power that older and more experienced archers want.

Best Recurve Bow in the World - Genesis Original Bow.jpg

It’s one of the shorter recurve bows on our list and it also has limited draw power.  For archers over the age of 16, a 20 pound draw weight is the bare minimum, and experienced archers will want even more power. The bow is ready to shoot out of the box since it comes with a rest and nock pre-installed. But that’s as far as the accessories go, if you want anything else you’ll have to purchase them separately. Gloves or finger guards are things to consider, because it’s pretty easy to hurt your fingers shooting with this bow as it ships. It’s also unfortunate that this bow doesn’t come with a standard warranty.

Still, the Genesis Original is a great little recurve bow for beginning archers. There was a reason it was named the official bow of the National Archery in the Schools Program, this is the perfect learner’s bow.

  • 5 inches axle-to-axle
  • 30-inch max draw length
  • 625-inch brace height
  • 10-20 draw pounds
  • Ships with Allen wrench, strings, rest, and nock.

Samick Sage Takedown Recurve Bow

Here is another attractive and powerful bow that makes it at #3 on my list for the best recurve bow in the world. The riser is made with layered maple, and the upper and lower limbs are made with black fiberglass fit around another layer of maple. It all adds up to an attractive package that looks as good as it feels. The Sage Takedown comes in a number of different variations to fit the needs of most archers.

To begin with, it’s available in right and left-hand orientations to help you shoot the way that you feel comfortable shooting. It also comes in a variety of different sizes, ranging from 25 pounds of draw strength to 60 pounds. Children under the age of 16 who haven’t shot bows before might find the 25-pound entry point to be a little too tough, but everyone else should see what they’re looking for in Southwest Archery’s lineup of recurve bows.

Samick Sage Takedown Recurve Bow

No matter what strength you get the bow weights in at just over two pounds, making it very lightweight and easy to handle. In addition to the standard accessories you can expect with a recurve bow, this package also includes a link to video tutorials that will give you specific instructions on how to set the bow up. Add in the stringer tool, and it’s a breeze to get this bow in working order and start shooting right after delivery. This bow also comes covered by a standard 1-year warranty from Southwest Archery, so you can buy with confidence that you can’t get from bows without coverage.

This package is an excellent deal for adult archers of every skill level and is one of the best recurve bow for target archery. It’s easy enough for a beginner but strong enough for someone who is looking to take their game to the next level. Just make sure you purchase the right model, so you get the draw strength you need to succeed.

  • 62 inches axle-to-axle.
  • 29-inch max draw length
  • 25-8.25 inch brace height
  • 25-60 draw pounds
  • Ships with B-50 bow strings, rest, and stringer tool
  • Covered by 1-year manufacturer warranty

Longbowmaker Hungarian style Handmade Longbow Flagella Recurve Horsebow

If you’re looking for a bow that feels a little more like something Robin Hood wood use then this is the recurve bow for you. This bow has a sleek and classic look that feels like something out of an Errol Flynn movie. It’s hand assembled using materials like real wood, leather, steel, and a fiberglass core.

Please note, it is not pure wood even though it might seem to be at first glance. Still, between the materials and the assembly, this bow is durable without being too heavy. This bow is available in draw weights ranging from 30 pounds to 60 pounds in 5-pound increments. If you’re shopping for a child, this bow might be a little too much for them. 30 pounds can be a little tough to handle for people who aren’t athletic and have never shot a bow before. But if you have some muscles or experience, then this bow is available in a size that will meet your needs.

Longbowmaker Hungarian style Handmade Longbow Flagella Recurve Horsebow

One thing that this bow lacks is a warranty. The manufacturer seems to be relatively well regarded, but if you have an issue with this bow, the lack of warranty will leave you exposed. The strings are also a little on the cheap side, so be prepared to replace it sooner rather than later. Still, this is a relatively cheap bow so it wouldn’t be too expensive to replace.

If you’re looking for a modern bow with an old-school style, then the this recurve bow from Longbowmaker is a stylish and functional choice.

  • 57 inches axle-to-axle.
  • 28-inch max draw length
  • 30-60 draw pounds
  • Ships with bowstrings
  • Covered by 1-year manufacturer warranty

KESHES Takedown Recurve Bow and Arrow

This is another bow that combines an affordable price with quality construction. The price says bargain but when you pull back a feathered arrow and let it loose you’ll feel like this bow cost a pretty penny. It’s another bow that’s great for younger archers because it’s available with draw weights as low as 15 pounds. On the other hand, because it only goes up to 35 pounds, this bow isn’t the best for experienced adults but is a great candidate for the best youth recurve bow in the market.

To kill a deer humanely, you need a bow with at least 40 pounds of draw strength. Still, if you’re looking to do target shooting, then 35 pounds of draw strength will get the job done. The grip is comfortable and made of an attractive mix of woods. If you look at the accessories bundled in this package, you’ll see that this baby is fully loaded. You don’t just get strings, a rest, and a stringing tool; you also get a sight and an instruction book. The book will will lead you step by step through the setup process and give you tips you need to know as a first time archer. It also comes with brass bushings already installed so you can add on new accessories with ease.

KESHES Takedown Recurve Bow and Arrow

The only thing that’s missing out is professional nocking. Still, with this one purchase you get all the basics an archer needs besides a bow and quiver. Add on a satisfaction guarantee from KESHES, and you get a highly appealing package. This bow is mainly for beginners, but that’s nothing to sneeze at. This is a solid, affordable, and feature-packed bow that will start any beginning archer off on the right foot.

It isn’t the fanciest bow, but it’s a good bargain for its price tag.

  • 62 inches axle-to-axle.
  • 29-inch max draw length
  • 5-8.25 inch brace height
  • 15-30 draw pounds
  • Ships with Dacron bow strings, sight, rest, and stringer tool
  • Covered by 100% satisfaction guarantee

Aiming for the perfect Bow

You’ve now had a chance to read about the five top recurve bows on the market today. If you’re shopping for a younger archer, then a smaller bow like the Genesis Original Bow is a good choice. If you want to hunt game, then you definitely need to buy a bow with a larger draw weight.

40-pound arms are necessary to kill most deer, and 50 pounds are required for bigger game animals. For target practice, there is no minimum, but most adult archers would benefit from a bow that’s has a draw weight of 25 pounds. On the other hand, remember that if the bow strength is too heavy, it will be difficult to use the bow. Choosing a bow requires finding your personal sweet spot.

If you’re not sure what you need, then you should read up on recommendations for your gender, height, and weight to make sure that you get a bow that will give you the power you need. In my next articles, I’ll also talk about choosing the best arrows for recurve bows. Till then, Good luck and good shooting!

Best Hunting Binoculars under 200 Dollars – My Top 3 Choices

Few things get you closer to nature than hunting. If a hunter wants to get even closer to nature, they need a good pair of binoculars. Keeping your distance is one of the most important things a hunter can do. The closer you get to your prey the more likely you are to spook them. Every hunter knows the pain that comes from losing a target you’ve spent hours tracking through the woods. Don’t let that happen to you, come equipped with a pair of hunting binoculars that will allow you to stalk your target from as far away as possible.

It’s one thing to know you need a good pair of binoculars, finding the right one is a little trickier. That’s where we come in. We’ve looked at the top models on the market that will fit the average budget. We present you with the three best-hunting binoculars under 200 dollars.

Top 3 Choices for the Best Hunting Binoculars under 200 Dollars

Bushnell Trophy XLT Roof Prism Binoculars, 10x42mm (Bone Collector Edition)

Bushnell is one of the biggest names in hunting, and for good reasons. They specialize in helping hunters get the best look at their targets, so no time or bullets are wasted. This philosophy can clearly be seen in their Trophy XLT Roof Prism Binoculars. The binoculars offer 10X magnification and a 42 mm objective lens. It gives you a wide sweep, at a thousand yards the field of view is 325 feet. You can also get a good look at nearby prey with a close focus of 8.2 feet.

Bushnell Trophy XLT Roof Prism Binoculars

Bushnell understands that all the magnification in the world doesn’t matter if you can’t actually see anything. That’s why they make their lenses waterproof and fog proof for maximum visibility even on the most humid days. Despite its power, the XLT is a very compact piece of equipment. It’s 6 inches wide, 7 inches long, and 3 inches thick. The whole thing weighs just a touch over one and a half pounds. You’ll have no problem carrying this with you, whether you’re out on the hunt or headed to the ball game. The only real downside is the quality of the flip covers, which aren’t as sturdy as we would have liked. Still, it’s a great package overall. And All of this is available in the most affordable pair on our list.

The particular model we’re recommending is the Bone Collector Edition. It is inspired by the TV show Trophy XLT Roof Prism Binoculars, where former NFL cornerback and lifelong hunting fanatic Michael Waddell shows off his passion for the pastime. He has left his personal stamp in the form of an awesome name and a killer logo. With these babies in your hand, you’ll feel like a real hunter. Just don’t let the deer see these things, one glance at the skull and deer head logo and they’ll go running. Fortunately, with these binoculars, you should never get close enough for animals to see you.

Redfield Rebel 10x42mm Binocular

#2 on my list of the best hunting binoculars under 200 dollars is Redfield which is another company that hunters have come to trust. They’re committed to helping hunters keep an eye on their prey; they make binoculars and high powered scopes. Nothing escapes a trained hunting eye looking through a Redfield. The Redfield Rebel is a prime example of this theory in action.

Best Hunting Binoculars under 200 - Redfield Rebel 10x42mm Binocular

This particular model has 10x magnification and a 42-mm objective lens. The clarity of vision you get through these binoculars is remarkable. It really shines when you’re in situations where the light isn’t what you might want it to be. This Is thanks to the BAK4 prisms, which are chosen specifically to assist hunters. It’s all wrapped up in an aluminum case that can take a licking without allowing the precious lenses and prisms inside to be damaged. If there is a defect with the binoculars then you don’t have to worry, this pair is covered by Redfield’s limited lifetime guarantee.

The Rebel is the heaviest pair on our list, but it still weighs a mere 1.65 pounds. The design is 6 inches wide, 7 inches long, and 3 inches thick. The one real downside is the focus control. It’s not bad; it’s simply more finicky than you might like. It takes a careful hand to accurately pull focus, but once everything is lined up, you’ll get a perfect picture.

Nikon 16001 PROSTAFF 7S 10×30 Inches Compact Binocular (Black)

Some hunters might be hesitant to buy a pair of Nikons. After all, Nikon is known as a camera brand and not a hunting brand. They may not make gun scopes, but they know a thing or two about lenses. These binoculars offer incredible power and clarity for their price point, earning them a solid spot on our list.

This pair of binoculars is known for its brightness. The prisms used don’t lose light like cheaper models. You can see perfectly through these beasts from the dark of dawn to dusk. Even after the sun goes down, you can use these glasses to see constellations of stars like never before. With that kind of power imagine how easy it is to see animals 100 yards away. All of the PROSTAFF 7S’ power is packed into a remarkably compact package. The whole thing weighs around 0.92 pounds and measures in at 4.8 inches wide, 4.7 inches long, and 1.2 inches thick. With these measurements, it’s incredibly easy to carry these binoculars with you at all times.

Nikon 16001 PROSTAFF 7S 10x30 Inches Compact Binocular

These Nikon Binoculars may be the most expensive pair on our list, but they earn every penny. It should also be noted that there are different sizes available for people. The 10 x 30 inch is the most powerful and most expensive while the 8 x 42 and 8 x 30 models both cut back on power and shave money off the price tag. With the Nikon PROSTAFF 7S, you get some of the best magnification and clarity for your investment.

Picking the Right Pair

All three of the models we have looked at will help you on your next hunting trip. Every one of them is high quality and available for less than $200. The differences are in the details. If you want the lightest and most compact model possible, then you should check out the Nikon PROSTAFF 7S. If you want the most affordable binoculars, Trophy XLT Roof Prisms from Bushnell are a slam dunk. The Rebels sit in the middle, offering plenty of power for its price point.

In the end, you have to pick the one that calls out to you. You can’t go wrong with any of these binoculars and that’s why you can trust my judgement when it comes to picking the best hunting binoculars under $200!

 

Best Belly Band Holster – My Top 3 Choices

If you work for the military or secret services, then as part of your professional responsibilities you will be required to handle and store a gun in such a way that you have instant access to your weapon, always. A Belly band holster is an accessory that helps you do just this.

Your gun stays in place without slipping as you move or run during your daily activity and your holster provides you instant access to your gun. It is an advantage for you if your holster facilitates carrying multiple weapons. Most traditional holsters allow only a single weapon.

You can also carry your car and house keys in your Belly band holster; and other things like credit cards and an ammunition magazine among other miscellaneous items.

I have checked out the features of a few Belly band holsters from different manufacturers and brands and have come up with my top 3 choices.

Best Belly Band Holster – My Top 3 Choices

  • ALPHAHOLSTER BELLY GUN HOLSTER – ABDOMINAL BAND PISTOL HOLSTER (~$82)
  • UNDER TECH UNDERCOVER ORIGINAL BELLY BAND (~ $32)
  • BELLY BAND WITH 2 MAG POUCHES BY PS PRODUCTS (~ $56)

#1 – ALPHAHOLSTER BELLY GUN HOLSTER – ABDOMINAL BAND PISTOL HOLSTER

My choice #1 for the best belly band holster is considered among the holsters ever made. The holster is smooth in design and very functional as you can store various weapons comfortably and use them very effectively. The outstanding feature of the AlphaHolster Belly Band Holster is the ventilation combined with the elasticity. There are no issues if you sweat profusely as the holster is waterproof and will not be affected. You will feel comfortable wearing it as it is made of a light material that gets rid of sweat easily.

ALPHAHOLSTER BELLY GUN HOLSTER - ABDOMINAL BAND PISTOL HOLSTER

The elasticity of the holster enables you to reach your weapon very quickly as you continue wearing it through the day while going about your daily activity. You can draw your gun and replace it as quickly. Your weapon is not scratched or damaged by the holster’s high quality construction.

Pros:

  • AlphaHolster belly holster is very flexible and this implies that you can carry on with your daily activities, while comfortably wearing it.
  • Slightly expensive but worth the money
  • Waterproof and sweat resistant.
  • It is also light to carry and wear
  • You can use it to store different weapons

Cons:

  • When you are seated, the stretchable material of this holster tends to roll and bunch, as it is very thin
  • You need to select the correct size for yourself, to avoid discomfort

#2 – UNDER TECH UNDERCOVER ORIGINAL BELLY BAND

The name of my #2 selection encapsulates stealth and concealment. The UnderTech UnderCover original belly band literally wraps itself very comfortable around your abdomen area. It efficiently does what it is designed to do which is keep your firearm close to your body when you instantly need it. In fact, you will notice no bulge protruding from underneath your t-shirt or shirt.

Very neat, right!

UNDER TECH UNDERCOVER ORIGINAL BELLY BAND

The attractive feature of this remarkable holster is the high level of flexibility and the functionality it provides. Imagine, you can just as conveniently wear it inside a business suit as you can when you are dressed for the gym. That means the UnderTech UnderCover Belly Band is manufactured to be worn in all kinds situations, whether involving work or play. Furthermore, the powerful strap offers a lot of sweat resistance and elasticity for comfort.

You can use this holster to store different weapons and wear it the whole day without moving or adjusting it.

Pros:

  • Under Tech Undercover belly band has additional slots to store extra magazines and other items.
  • It is elastic, and this ensures you are comfortable as you carry out your daily activities
  • It is sweat resistant

Cons:

  • The holster’s larger sizes tend to make your abdominal area look bulkier

#3 – BELLY BAND WITH 2 MAG POUCHES BY PS PRODUCTS

This holster by PS products is my #3 choice for the category of the best belly band holster. It has a simple yet stretchable design, and is made of high quality plastic. This holster has a very secure and reliable Velcro closure. This holster has 2 additional magazine slots, so it is highly unlikely that you will ever run out of ammunition.

Best Belly Band Holster

The elasticity of the holster is very impressive and blends easily to the body contours and clothes, to offer maximum concealment. You get a highly functional and comfortable feeling of your equipment on the body. Irrespective of whether you are wearing a shirt or a t-shirt, your belly band holster is so comfortable that you will not need to adjust it, once your wear it, even if you are doing physically demanding assignments.

Pros:

  • The holster can be used to store different pistols and handguns
  • It can be used as a dual magazine bag
  • Affordable
  • It is very elastic and securely holds your stomach, as well as your weapon.

Cons:

  • You may need to wash the new holster to make the edges soft

Conclusion:

I have considered the following factors before making my selections for my top 3 best Belly band holsters:

  • Material that has very high elasticity and at the same time being durable
  • Quality that will last for a long time
  • Gun holding ability – a holster should hold the gun firmly in place so it does not slip out
  • Size – the size of the holster should match the size of the individual. A bigger size for a smaller individual, will not only feel and look awkward but will make their abdominal region look bigger than it is.

My top choice is still ALPHAHOLSTER BELLY GUN HOLSTER as the best belly band holster because though slightly expensive it is worth the money spent. Also it is sweat resistant and feels comfortable enough on the body to enable me to carry on with my daily activities, without being conscious I am wearing one.

Without a doubt, I would not hesitate to select any of my other two choices in that order, if my top choice was not available for some reason.

Best Keychain Flashlight Review

Best Keychain Flashlight Review & Buying Guide

Imagine it is already dark outside and you have just arrived home in your car. You remember that there was some important data you copied from your work PC onto a pen drive so you can continue working on it at home, after dinner. You rummage in your car, on the seats and in the glove compartment to find the pen drive and don’t succeed in finding it, wherever you search. The car’s interior light does not seem to help either!

A keychain flashlight is a quick and reliable way to provide the light you need to accomplish your purpose. It’s also a great survival tool to carry with you in the outdoors while camping or hiking.

Best Keychain Flashlight 2017 – My Top 3 Choices:

  • SureFire Sidekick 300-Lumen Ultra-Compact Triple-Output Keychain Light, Black (~$75)
  • Best Small Flashlight Highest 360 lumens: UltraTac K18 Powerful LED AAA Key Chain Torch Light 4 (~$29.85)
  • Nitecore TIP BLACK 360 Lumens USB Rechargeable Keychain Flashlight with LumenTac USB Cable (~$29.95)

#1 – SureFire Sidekick 300-Lumen Ultra-Compact Triple-Output Keychain

My choice #1 for the best keychain flashlight 2017 is almost rectangular shaped and can produce a powerful 300 lumens of visible light that reaches up to 50 meters. There are three brightness settings you can choose from, at the simple flick of a button.

Best Keychain Flashlight

The rechargeable battery is the most attractive feature of the SureFire Sidekick, as with other flashlights you either replace the existing battery or remove the battery first from the unit to recharge. The charging process for this keychain flashlight is as simple as directly plugging the device into the mains through its micro USB port, as you would normally do with your smartphone. Incredible but true! Your flashlight is always readily charged as you would normally carry a power bank to charge your smartphone wherever you go!

The external body of this weather resistant keychain flashlight is very compact and the metal clip provided makes it convenient to carry around with you, wherever you go.

Features:

  • Length: 2.5 inches
  • Bezel diameter: 0.58 inches
  • Battery: Lithium-ion
  • Weight: 1.2 ounces
  • Brightness: 300 lumens (high), 60 lumens (medium), 5 lumens (low)
  • Runtime: 1.25 hours (high), 4 hours (medium), 45 hours (low)

Pros:

  • Micro USB port for charging
  • Lightweight and very compact
  • Weather resistant
  • Multiple light output
  • Flood beam

Cons:

  • Made of plastic
  • Unit becomes non-functional if the built-in battery dries up
  • Beacon mode during charging may be annoying for some people especially at nights

#2 – Nitecore TIP BLACK 360 Lumens USB Rechargeable Keychain Flashlight with LumenTac USB Cable

My #2 selection is also a very good choice for a portable keychain flashlight. The exterior material is made of water-resistant polycarbonate and is so robust that it can withstand 77 pounds in weight!

You have a choice between four modes for brightness and the highest power achievable is a brilliant 360 lumens which is quite high for a battery equipped with rechargeable Li-ion. The device memory will “remember” the last brightness mode used before the flashlight was turned off. The light beam lights up your peripheral vision and can reach up to 74 meters.

Nitecore TIP BLACK 360 Lumens USB Rechargeable Keychain

You can conveniently recharge your Nitecore keychain flashlight directly using its micro USB port just like your smartphone (very exciting?) or if you are not near an AC outlet, you can conveniently plug your device into your power bank just like the SureFire Sidekick keychain flashlight.

The advanced temperature regulator automatically stops the flashlight from overcharging even if it is plugged in, preventing the unit from overheating. You can easily loop this flashlight in your keychain using the metallic key ring to conveniently carry it around.

Features:

  • Length: 2.39 inches
  • Bezel diameter: 0.85 inches
  • Weight: 0.75 ounces
  • Battery: Lithium-ion battery
  • Brightness: 360 lumens (turbo), 150 lumens (high), 35 lumens (medium), 1 lumens (low)
  • Runtime: 30 minutes (turbo), 1.5 hours (high), 6.5 hours (medium), 46 hours (low)

Pros:

  • Lightweight and compact
  • Waterproof
  • Shock absorber up to 1.5 m
  • Multiple light output with memory function
  • Micro USB port for recharging

Cons:

  • Consumes battery in turbo mode

#3 – UltraTac K18 Powerful LED AAA Key Chain Torch Light 4

My #3 choice for the best keychain flashlight 2017 is an aluminium-bodied flashlight and one of the best keychain flashlights you can find. Since it is compatible with multiple battery types, you can use alkaline or rechargeable Li-ion batteries with this device and consequently experience a significantly higher level of brightness. You get enhanced lighting through the hidden strobe mode on this device, and four different modes of brightness through a toggle switch, the highest being 360 lumens.

UltraTac K18 Powerful LED AAA Key Chain Torch Light

The keychain flashlight is waterproof and impact resistant as the external body is made of aerospace aluminium. A direct copper thermal path inside the body ensures efficient thermal dissipation so this keychain flashlight won’t overheat.
This keychain flashlight is very compact and can be conveniently attached to your head as a headlamp using the detachable metal clip provided. Using the carabiner clip you can attach this flashlight to a keychain.

Features:

  • Length: 2.95 inches
  • Bezel diameter: 0.55 inches
  • Battery: Lithium-ion
  • Weight: 0.75 ounces
  • Battery: Li-ion 10440 or Alkaline AAA
  • Brightness: Using Li-ion 10440: 360 lumens (high), 80 lumens (medium), 5 lumens (low)
  • Brightness: Using Alkaline AAA: 110 lumens (high), 25 lumens (medium), 3 lumens (low)
  • Can be used as a headlamp

Pros:

  • Lightweight and ultra-compact
  • Shock and weather resistant
  • Multiple light output
  • Flood beam
  • Better thermal dissipation
  • Detachable clip

Cons:

  • Consumes battery in high mode during extended use

Conclusion

All three of my choices for the best keychain flashlight in 2017 would efficiently serve the purpose of providing a bright, but miniature light to help locate something quickly in the dark in a small space, or light your way on the pathway outside your home or in any other similar situation.

However, if you were to choose only one of the above, then my choice # 1 is the SureFire Sidekick 300-Lumen Ultra-Compact Triple-Output Keychain Light as it reputed to be both durable and reliable, while at the same time retailing at a very affordable price.

Best Electric Knife Sharpener under $100

Best Electric Knife Sharpener under $100 – My Top 3 Choices

In my wilderness or the outdoors, one of the most important accessories to my survival and hunting gear are my knives. It is these trusty (not rusty) implements that help me carve my meat, fish, and vegetables into edible and manageable pieces, which when cooked are a delight to look at on my plate and consequently devour. Yes, I agree that my ingredients, condiments, and cooking expertise do add to the flavour, for sure but the hunting knives are the real heroes
And that’s why it is a no brainer to invest in the best electric knife sharpeners in order to keep my knives in top condition for my cutting, slicing, dicing and cutting activities in the outdoors

My Top 3 Choices for best electric sharpener under $100 would be as below:

  • Chef’s Choice 320 Diamond Hone Knife Sharpener, White
  • Chef’s Choice 110 Professional Diamond Hone Sharpener
  • Presto 08800 EverSharp Electric Knife Sharpener

#1 – Chef’s Choice 320 Diamond Hone Knife Sharpener, White

This ultra-efficient sharpener is my top #1 choice for the best electric knife sharpener under 100 dollars. The strength of the diamonds in the tool ensure that I get unrivalled sharpening satisfaction when I make just a few passes with the dull knife through each slot. The sharpener does even better than professional sharpening services.

Best Electric Knife Sharpener under $100 - Chef's Choice 320 Diamond Hone Knife Sharpener

Features of this tool are:

1. Two-Stage Sharpening

I can use this professional two-stage electric sharpener to sharpen and strop both serrated and straight knives. Stage one uses a 100% diamond coated disk and stage two uses a polishing and stropping disk resulting in a sharp and durable knife edge. The biggest advantage of this tool is it sharpens by removing least amount of material from the blade during the sharpening process

2. Internal Elastomeric guides
You get a sharp, perfect edge every time as the internal elastomeric spring guides hold the knife blades in the right position and at the proper angle to the sharpening surfaces

3. 100% Diamond Honing
The extreme hardness of the 100% fine diamond honing abrasives ensure they sharpen the blades without overheating or damaging them

4. Stabilizing Feet
The non-slip stabilizing feet and specially designed base of the sharpener prevent any movement and unfortunate accidents, as the tool is kept fixed to the table or counter-top.

Pros:

  • Easily affordable at $94.95
  • 3-year warranty
  • Reliable for use with professional knives
  • This sharpener is so efficient it can restore a 15° edge for Asian style blades, and a 20° edge for both European and American style blades
  • Very reliable and safe sharpener
  • Durable longer lasting edges
  • After sharpening, the knife blade edge is strong and long lasting while the knife cuts cleanly
  • Results are very sharp
  • A reviewer even said that this sharpener can get my knives sharper than the day I bought them!
  • Saves time and effort in the sharpening process
  • Buyer satisfaction of over 95%
  • Easy maintenance, can use a toothbrush or a paper towel to brush
  • No lubrication or wetting of any moving parts required

Cons:

  • Unsuitable for heavy sharpening of very dull knives as it is only a two-stage knife sharpener
  • Sometimes may have to spend time sharpening every use of your knife

#2 – Chef’s Choice 110 Professional Diamond Hone Sharpener

In the commercial kitchen, nothing is more important than a sharp knife. Period. Check out my top# 2 choice coming from Chef’s choice. If I can own a knife sharpener that can produce a patented triple bevel Trizor-Plus edge on any knife in my kitchen, in a few seconds; then this is the tool I really want to own as it promises a superior sharpening result, over a long time.

Chef's Choice 110 Professional Diamond Hone Sharpener

This tool is effective on every knife available in a kitchen except serrated knives, and even does Asian style, fillet, butcher, and sports knives. An additional feature of this sharpener is its patented guide system which ensures maximum sharpness on all my knives.

The 100% diamond abrasive disks or wheels can sharpen any type of alloy including carbon steel and stainless steel, effortlessly. Whether my knife is thin, medium, or thick the inbuilt magnetic guides help me apply the right sharpening pressure for optimal sharpening angles.

Pros:

  • Affordable as price is $79.95
  • This device is easy to use, safe and very effective and hones to perfection
  • As easy as 1-2-3. The first stage removes some of the blade’s metal to create a new blade, the second stage further lightly sharpens the edge and third stage hones the edge to perfection. You may not need to use all three stages for every knife in your kitchen
  • Durable – This is a high-quality product that is recognised for its 100% diamond abrasives and precision guides so my knives work like new
  • User-friendly – I can sharpen multiple knives with this tool very quickly as compared to other tools on the market
  • The elastomeric angle guides help me get high precision sharpening on my knives
  • Comes with simple easy to follow instruction for use of the tool and a 2-year warranty
  • The 3-stage sharpening removes less metal from the blade surface as compared to other sharpening tools in the market

Cons:

  • This sharpener is not good for serrated knives
  • Grinding noises are heard during the process of pulling the knives through the slots

#3 – Presto 08800 EverSharp Electric Knife Sharpener

If I am looking for a very affordable knife sharpener under $100 that will do most of the jobs of my other two choices #1 and #2, then this tool would be my preference. My #3 choice is most economically priced and it’s two-stage sharpener technology can sharpen all types of non-serrated knives, quite easily.

Presto 08800 EverSharp Electric Knife Sharpener

Because of the high quality Sapphirite sharpening wheels, the process of sharpening takes only a few seconds and I get a razor-sharp edge on my knives very quickly. The device works almost on autopilot avoiding any guesswork from me. The knife blade is grinded and sharpened during the first stage while during the second stage I can hone it to perfection.

Three suction cups are inbuilt into the device at the bottom to hold the knife firmly in place during the process of sharpening and a filter is provided with the device to avoid any spattering of metal shards and fillings

Pros:

  • 1 year limited warranty
  • Excellent value and cheap at $20
  • Good for big amounts of grating and cutting jobs
  • Very fast and reliable sharpening results
  • Sharpens dull knives as well

Cons:

  • May require manual steeling by hand, before sharpening
  • Slight burr sound when honing a blade
  • Cannot adjust sharpening angle and cannot sharpen serrated blades
  • Sharpening performance on high carbon steel is excellent but not so good on stainless steel
  • Device motor seems to be under powered

Conclusion

Considering the price and performance, my number one choice for the best electric knife sharpener under $100 will be the Chef’s Choice 320 Diamond Hone Knife Sharpener. Trust my judgement and go for this – you won’t be disappointed one bit!