She uses it every morning, even if she''s not going anywhere. Being from San Diego and living in Oakland, ots almost impossible to find chargers gear, so it made her day. If she''s happy then I''m happy
San Diego Chargers NFL 16oz Stainless Steel Travel Mug
She uses it every morning, even if she''s not going anywhere. Being from San Diego and living in Oakland, ots almost impossible to find chargers gear, so it made her day. If she''s happy then I''m happy
Exotac Nano Striker Fire Starter Save 49% off
This device is so light that I don''t mind having it on my keyring. The best firestarter is the one you have with you when you need it.Unlike matches that can get damp; butane lighters that crack; or zippo''s that dry up, this titanium beauty will never disappoint.
Its easy to operate and will surely outlast me. I''d recommend it for anyone that travels off the beaten path.
Compact
light weight
looks great
Cons:
Fire steel rod broke after about 30 strikes.
Striker is very short, i added a lanyard to help with grip.The EXOTAC Nano Striker Titanium is the ULTIMATE EDC FIRE STARTER. Dont buy any other flint device, when you can have the one you really wanted in the first place.
Katadyn Pocket Water Microfilter Save 21% off
The Katadyn pocket has a well-deserved reputation for reliability and durability. It is one of the pricier filters but is also rated to pump much more water than its competitors. The Katadyn pocket isn''t light (20 oz), but the better competitor pumps are also about 16 oz., so this isn''t too much heavier. Some of the others pump a little faster, but they are usually 0.3 micron filters, whereas this is a superior 0.2 micron filter. The Katydin pocket is also the only pump with a lifetime warranty (excluding wear of the ceramic filter).If you search the web, you''ll find a lot of reports of the $75 pumps eventually breaking, especially plastic handles. If you have to replace them (or their short-lived filters), you''ve already well into what it would cost to buy a Katadyn Pocket. This thing is pretty damn tough, and the only way to break it would be to take it apart and drop the inner ceramic filter.
I''ve found it easy to use, though you need to hold it upright to keep water flowing. During 8 years of trips through the Sierra Nevada, Utah, New Hampshire, and Wyoming this filter has never disappointed.
General tips to extend the lifetime of any water filter:
1) Use running water from streams/rivers whenever possible
2) Position the floater so that water inflow comes from the top of the stream and not the bottom (where a lot of sediment stirs about)
3) Rubber band a coffee filter around the prefilter to keep particulate matter out.
4) After pumping, unscrew the filter and drain the excess water. This filter is silver-impregnated though, to prevent microbial growth.
If you want to keep your packing weight down, carry your water in collapsible water bladders instead of thick plastic bottles. You can buy a cheap adapter so that water is pumped from the filter right into the water bladder. If you search around the web you can find the Katydin Pocket for around 180 or less. I tend to pack light and have lots of fancy lightweight gear, but I am serious about my water sources and don''t plan to compromise on this beauty.
True this one is a little heavier, but it is worth having a filter that will work and has a metal handle so you won''t have to worry about breaking it. Although if you do drop it on a rock it is possible to break the filter element. So caution is still needed.
I added the Carbon charcoal extension that enables you to drink from virtually any source. The extension was only around 10 to $12.
This is the best filter on the market.
Well worth the money.
Buy Katadyn Pocket Water Microfilter Now
In 1980, this thing was $180 at REI. After a bad experience with the Lifesaver LS6000 last year, I finally pulled the trigger for the Katadyn Pocket. This review compares my experience using the Katadyn Pocket Micro/external carbon cartridge/Steripen Classic as a system vs the Lifesaver LS6000/4000 water purifier. I won''t spend much time on the external carbon cartridge and Steripen here because they will be reviewed separately with links to them at the end of this review. Use this review to supplement what others are saying.I originally chose the Lifesaver LS6000 (also now available through Amazon) over the Katadyn for a remote Arizona camping trip because it was a PURIFIER rather than just a filter. The LS6000 (LS4000 is the same technology, just smaller capacity) seemed like it would be more convenient because in actual operation, it is essentially a single, self contained collector/water bottle with an integrated activated carbon filter. But after a frustrating 1 week experience with the LS6000 putting GALLONS of water through trying to get rid of a cheap plastic taste, I finally returned it to the distributor.
I paid return shipping for the privilege of testing the LS6000 and I still wasn''t going to have a filter for my trip. Not too happy about that. While it was probably filtering to the 15NM spec, more than 13 times the filtering power of the Katadyn (200NM), it just didn''t hold up to the video claims that the water produced tasted like bottled water. That was my only real beef with the LS6000. See my review under the LS6000.
The backup plan was to order the Swiss made Katadyn Pocket Microfilter, along with the Katadyn activated carbon filter cartridge and the Steripen Classic...all at fantastic sale prices + free super saver shipping at Amazon. The Pocket retails for $289 and I paid $189 with free super saver shipping. Source the Eneloop batteries for the Steripen from whom you choose, but they are the only batteries I recommend for the Steripen. It took 8 months to get everything together but the batteries taking advantage of Amazon''s best discounts.
With the 2 hoses (intake/output) plus the charcoal filter cartridge and Steripen, this system becomes a bit more of a project to filter and purify water than the Lifesaver. But, I have to say that that in terms of water that was just pure joy to drink, this busier (and initially pricier) setup was superior to the simpler Lifesaver system. I was also into this combination for about $313 for everything ready for the wilderness vs $179 for the LS6000 on Amazon.
Another downside of the Katadyn is that after you are done with it, it''s a little busier to put away. It''s a good idea to remove the hoses, carbon cartridge taking care to put the output hose (along with the carbon cartridge) in a separate ziplock bag to prevent cross contamination. The covers for the hose connection ports should be installed, also to prevent cross contamination. It all fits in the Katadyn''s pouch. If you used the Steripen, too, then you should dry it off, recap it and return it to its ventilated neoprene pouch. With the Lifesaver, you just close the teat, snap the cap back over the teat and put the bottle back in your pack.
Using the Katadyn with the Steripen Much of what I''ve read points to treating for viruses in pristine free running North American waters possibly being overkill. In clear running mountain streams I probably wouldn''t bother with the Steripen as the Pocket alone probably will take care of the "bugs" that would be found under those conditions and the carbon cartridge will do its job to provide the fresh clean taste you might expect. However, the closer you get to high use areas by people and animals, the more I would look at some way of dealing with the potential for viruses, e.g., Steripen. Treating with the Steripen takes about 90 seconds for 1 liter of water and 48 seconds for 16 oz. The LS6000 removes viruses during the filtering process without the need for any further treatments. I would be cautious drawing water from sources where boats with fossil fuel motors operate no matter which filter system is used..
I tested the output of the Katadyn without its optional carbon filter under the same conditions as the LS6000 and found the water also had an off taste, most likely imparted by the ceramic filter. The taste wasn''t the same or as offensive as the LS6000 with its integrated activated carbon filter, but you could still pick up that the Katadyn''s output was "off". I put the Katadyn activated carbon filter on the end of the output hose, pumped a new cup of water and VOILA(!), the water was PERFECT!
**************IMPORTANT UPDATE 5/12/2010************
Re: Off taste in Katadyn Pocket Microfilter- After reading reports of others obtaining the fresh clean water taste WITHOUT an activated carbon filter, I pursued this a little further. After drying the filter for a few days, I reassembled everything and tried again, except this time NO CARBON FILTER. After pumping 12 oz of water through the dry filter into a measuring cup, there was NO OFF TASTE AT ALL. Referring to the user guide it says to flush .5L (~1 pt) of water through the filter before 1st use, .2L (~7 oz) before each use thereafter and 1L (~1 qt) after having air dried the filter for long term storage. As reported in this update, I had pumped only 12oz of water through the dry filter. It would seem that if an off taste is occurring, it can managed by flushing the filter before filling the container. Will look at this further and update this review again. However, the carbon filter might still be needed to remove mossy or fishy tastes from streams, etc. The original review continues below.
So far I have tested the Katadyn with our hauled tap water, from our rain barrel system (not available for the LS6000 test) and then on to the (brown) spring streams of the Kaibab National Forest, natural standing water "tanks" in the Sycamore Canyon Wilderness and the nicely flowing waters of the Upper Verde River. While the rain barrel water tasted like the tar from our asphalt shingle roof, water filtered from the other sources with the Katadyn/carbon cartridge was a pleasure to drink (used the Steripen in ALL of these waters!). The LS6000 had no follow-on testing because I couldn''t produce satisfactory results from our hauled water source.
The output hose for the Katadyn has a spring loaded clip that attaches nicely to my canteen, cup, or most any other container. When using the Pocket with the activated carbon filter, an extra length of tubing is recommended from the output of the carbon filter if it does not fit stably onto your water container. Empty containers with narrow bases can be a little squirrelly to fill. With the Lifesaver, you just unscrew the bottom, submerge, replace the bottom, pump a few times, and open the teat and drink. Putting it back in your pack is a snap. You can also use the LS6000 to fill containers by opening the teat and aiming the pressurized stream accordingly. My Katadyn was supplied with an "O" ringed hose adapter for filling camelpacks.
Using the Katadyn, even without the optional carbon cartridge, is a bit of work for only a 12 oz drinking cup of water. Once you pull this device out of its pouch, connect the hoses and set up the water container, it is best to fill at least 1 32 oz Nalgene bottle, canteen, etc. plus the containers of others in the group. In the wilderness, I would probably want to remove the Katadyn''s ceramic cartridge and air dry it every 3-4 days. I also like to blow out the carbon cartridge and dry it as much as possible. I have not had to clean the ceramic cartridge, even after the tar tasting water of the rain barrel. The LS6000 cartridge is a little busier to remove and dry. The integrated activated carbon filter of the LS6000 should probably be left alone unless you are going to replace it. Probably wouldn''t bother drying the LS6000 until returning home.
The Lifesaver, because of its teat system, is more of a personal water bottle (kind of like your toothbrush is personal). The teat is designed to be pulled open with your teeth. The LS6000 will become more work in water sources where you are unable to submerge the entire bottle to collect water. Worst case, you have to resort to a smaller scoop, dig or use the supplied sponge to soak up water and squeeze it into the bottle. The LS6000''s cartridge can be backwashed, but looks to be a chore. With the Katadyn, I was still able to pump from sources that were only 1 inch deep. As long as you can submerge it, the Lifesaver system gets you collecting water and drinking in seconds while you could still be connecting hoses on the Katadyn. The Lifesaver will be more work to fill containers.
Another minor concern I have with the Lifesaver is that if you neglect to secure the cap for the teat or if its seal deteriorates, you could contaminate it when you submerge it in a water source. With the Pocket, the intake and output hoses are separated substantially, minimizing the potential for cross-contamination. The Katadyn also comes with port caps that should be installed prior to putting it away. Remove the output hose and cap the output port first, then the intake.
As far as maintenance goes, the Lifesaver seemed a little busier to maintain than than the Katadyn. There''s really not much to do with the Katadyn if you draw water from clean sources. Clean the ceramic cartridge if it gets harder to pump and use the supplied gauge to measure the diameter of the ceramic if you are cleaning it a lot. Lube the ''O'' ring on the pump with the supplied silicone, when necessary. You can download the servicing instructions for both prior to purchase. I certainly recommend that in the course of your decision making process.
If you want to look at the economics of one over the other, have at it. I would project that for the usual hiker/wilderness trekker in North American or Alpine hiker in Europe, the initial outlay for the Katadyn would be a once in a lifetime investment as long as you didn''t break the ceramic filter. With the Lifesaver, you are likely to need to buy at least 1 replacement filter plus the activated carbon filter replacements. But you will buy SEVEN TOTAL Lifesaver cartridges over the life of the LS6000 to purify 13,000 gallons of water that the Pocket treats to a lesser degree.
Add to that the costs of activated carbon filters for both. The Katadyn cartridge should be recharged with activated carbon after about 60 gallons. Replace the Lifesaver''s carbon insert at ~66 gallons. The LS6000 uses a replaceable insert. The Katadyn''s optional carbon cartridge can be recharged with packets of fine activated carbon. Also keep in mind that without the Steripen (~$70) plus the cost of Eneloop batteries or some other means of purification, you won''t have purification as you do with the Lifesaver system. You will likely use 6 more Steripen bulbs if you choose to go the extra step and PURIFY all 13000 gallons (not likely). The Sterpien bulb replacements are performed at the factory and will run ~$35 that includes shipping both ways. Add a few dollars to replace rechargeable Eneloops to that picture. The LS6000 replacement cartridges are around $120 with free shipping. The reality of reaching the 13,000 gallon mark for most of us is probably not too likely.
Bottom line In my opinion, money is not likely to make that much of a difference. If you can afford one, you can most likely afford the other. We are near retirement on a fixed income. I would have kept the LS6000 and likely never would have gone to this Katadyn combination had the LS6000 water tasted better. Even with a cost comparison, many are very likely to make their decision based on other factors.
If you want the convenience of getting PURIFIED water with a single integrated unit from almost any source you are willing to put your hand in to submerge it...and can put up with the prospect of shallow water sources that pose possible water collection issues coupled with output water that fell WAY short of the "bottled water taste" claim for me, go for one of the Lifesaver bottles. If they have cured that very offensive taste issue, the LS series Lifesaver Bottle 6000 Ultra Filtration Water Bottle might be the way to go. Also see Lifesaver Bottle Ultra Filtration Water Bottle Replacement Carbon Inserts (4-pk) and Lifesaver Bottle 6000 Ultra Filtration Water Bottle Replacement Cartridge.
If you don''t mind some extra work with a beautifully and solidly constructed Swiss classic, non integrated carbon filter Katadyn Carbon Cartridge and hose setup and the activity associated with returning everything to its pouch to obtain just short of "purified" but very good tasting drinking water under most wilderness conditions in North America, choose the decades time tested Katadyn Pocket with the optional activated carbon cartridge. Spring for the SteriPEN Classic Handheld Water Purifier if you want the added insurance in dealing with viruses using AA batteries. Both systems have their weaknesses for potentially expensive damage by freezing or mishandling. Neither will remove dissolved minerals and salts.
An intriguing thought is a device with Lifesaver purification capability and Katadyn Pocket functionality. I am sticking with the Katadyn setup even though it''s busier and a bit more to schlep with the extra 2 components to purify and get better tasting water. I rate it 5 stars with the activated carbon filter and 4 stars on its own for its slight off taste.
********UPDATE 5/29/201********** re: OFF TASTING WATER-- I have increased the rating on this device to 4 1/2 stars without the activated carbon filter. If you follow the directions in the Katadyn user guide for flushing the filter, you will get perfectly clean tasting water every time.
Read Best Reviews of Katadyn Pocket Water Microfilter Here
This is an awesomely manufactured tool for outdoors or survival or self-reliance. We own and use in raw mountain streams in the Rocky Mountains....WORKS GREAT!! Katadyn claims the original ceramic filter is good for 13,000 gallons...and I believe it. This is outdoor, emergency prep, disaster survival and/or self-reliance gear you''ll use for decades, and then pass down to your kids. Recommend unconditionally!Katadyn Pocket Water Microfilter
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I used an earlier version of this filter while living among the people in Korea for a full year for all my daily water needs. It never let me down. Never got sick. Never had a malfunction. No breakage. Nothing but a tired arm from pumping a gallon or so daily for my wife, year-old daughter, and myself. Later, it serviced my visiting in-laws, also at a rate of about three gallons a day (my MIL is a great cook). The silver impregnated filter never approached the point where the thickness gauge would have suggested replacement.I still have this filter and have used it since 1985 for outdoor trips and for civic emergencies, like when a hurricane knocked out city power for days. Water stopped flowing from taps. My K filter serviced lake water for several households for three days. Of course, given the threat of viruses, we used a treatment for that, but the greenish water from the local retention pond came out of the filter clear and odorless. No one got ill at all and we had all ages in the group.
Save 21% off
NFL Philadelphia Eagles Boilermaker Set
This is a great glass set. I gave it to a friend for Christmas and he loved it. Nicely packaged and no problems with shipping. In fact, the set actually came earlier than the expected date!
Hydro Flask Standard Mouth Sport Cap
Pros.Handy push/pull closure
Fits the smaller mouthed hydro flask bottles
Cons.
LEAKS if used every day. I used mine for only 2 weeks and it just leaked everywhere. I ended up going back to the standard lid.
Buy Hydro Flask Standard Mouth Sport Cap Now
I bought the 12 oz Hydro Flask Drinking Bottle and thought it was a good idea to also get the Hydro Flask Standard Mouth Sport Cap. Upon arrival it was working fine. In less than a day of usage, while opening the cap, the nozzle came out of place and got stuck inside the cap making it impossible to get it out. I can still drink water without the nozzle but it now leaks! Really disappointed since I wanted this to work so badly. Oh, well, now I''m sending it back for a refund.Read Best Reviews of Hydro Flask Standard Mouth Sport Cap Here
I love the water bottle that this lid fits on. Keeps ice cold water for 24 hrs. I love the idea of how easy it would be to drink water out of this sprout lid. In reality, however, there is a problem. When you pull up on the spout to get a drink there needs to be just the right amount of pressure applied. Too little and lid will not lift. Too much and the seal (a clear very small rubber band looking thing) flies off. I usually don''t swear but this bottle made me come close. I lost the seal once in a building so did find it. Another time in the car. That took some time but finally found it (it''s like looking for a contact lense not visible). Finally we took the thing rafting and I was initially upset when my young son pulled up too hard and sent the seal sailing into the river. Then I thought, "Good reddens!" The original lid with the Hydro Flask works for me.Want Hydro Flask Standard Mouth Sport Cap Discount?
The sport mouth cap is exactly what one needs while they are engaging in outdoor activity. Love it very much!
Klean Kanteen Coffee Set Wide Mouth Insulated Bottle
- FEATURES: Insulates hot beverages up to 6 hours Insulates iced drinks up to 24 hours Durable, double-walled construction High performance vacuum insulation Slim design fits in most cup holders Made of 18/8, food-grade stainless steel, no liner needed 100% stainless interior (18/8 stainless caps) Extra-wide mouth (2.125") No BPA, phthalates, lead, or other harmful substances Doesn''t retain or impart flavors Rounded corners are easy to clean External, stainless steel threads Works with standard backcountry water filters Reusable & recyclable Easy to hand wash
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My wife and I ride bike and we''ve purchased numerous insulated thermos-type water bottles. None match the performance of the Kleen Kanteen. The temperature holds better. The shape fits our bottle cages better. The convenience of the 2 caps excels the competition. The wide mouth makes getting ice into the bottle easier than others. Kleen Kanteen is the best! We rearely go anywhere anymore without our Kleen Kanteens. Now with the color options we''ve purchased additional bottles that we use just for non-water beverages and soups, setting up a color code for their use.Read Best Reviews of Klean Kanteen Coffee Set Wide Mouth Insulated Bottle Here
bought this item on the recommendation of my niece. It is awesome. Quite expensive as far as insulated coffee/drink bottles are concerned. But well worth the money. This is the second one I have purchased. Now my wife and I each have one for biking, hiking and going to the beach. Keeps cold drinks cold 24 hours easily. I also use mine for taking coffee to work. You will need both lids if you plan on carrying in the horizontal position. You can''t go wrong with this Kanteen.Want Klean Kanteen Coffee Set Wide Mouth Insulated Bottle Discount?
This mug keeps it''s contents hot (I haven''t tried cold beverages in it) for a while. Wide mouth makes it easy to wash. The only downside, which I have often with thermal coffee mugs, is cleaning the cap effectively. Some coffee can get left in the lid so you have to open and close the drinking hole to clean. I often leave the top off to drink it. Overall, a good product.
Nalgene Black Loop-Top Lid Narrow Mouth Bottle (Black)
Both of my kids use 1 liter nalgene bottles for sports games and practice, and they go through the lids about once a year. These lids work perfectly, but they are kind of pricey. How can the lid be $7 when a brand new bottle is only $10?
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This lid was a perfect replacement for the old lid that was half-melted on in the dishwasher. Fit''s great on my narrow-mouthed Nalgene bottle.Read Best Reviews of Nalgene Black Loop-Top Lid Narrow Mouth Bottle (Black) Here
Replaced a lid I melted in the dishwasher. Top rack means top rack, brother. Replacement is OEM, good as new. Mo bettah than new.Want Nalgene Black Loop-Top Lid Narrow Mouth Bottle (Black) Discount?
Works exactly as it should. Old broken cap came right off, new cap went right on. Water doesn''t come out, yay!
SIGG HELLO KITTY ROMANCE 0.6L (20 OZ) WATER BOTTLE 8315.30
Easy to use water bottle in clean steel.the only drawback? The original Sigg''s where issued with active tops whereas now you have to purchase them separately. Bring back the active bottle top as standard issue.
MLB Minnesota Twins Blue Stainless Steel Water Bottle
Order this for my son. He loves the fact that it doesn''t leak and that it has favorite MLB team on the bottle. The draw back is you have to unscrew the lid to drink and it is a big opening. He often spills when drinking.
Tupperware Quick Quench Bottle Set Save 32% off
- Set of 2
- Features large free-flowing spout
- Convenient flip-cap
- Removable bottom compartment
- 20 oz/600 mL
However, my daughter has the sport bottle style and uses the compartment to hold hold her jewely when competing in her sports so doesn''t loose her items in her gym bag.
Save 32% off
Sawyer SP181 PointOne Emergency Water Filtration Kit Save 16% off
For the last several months i have been using this filter in a rural Central American country with industrial-strength e-coli and amoebic cysts in the water. Does the job fast and with 10 times better filtration than EPA standards. Initially it did 5 gal. (19 L) in 17 to 20 minutes. Now it has settled in at about an hour for that 5 gal. I recommend a back-flush with the included syringe after every use. The syringe works much better if you slice out the end of the internal threads designed to hold the needle as they make for a leaky fit... takes a very fine-pointed sharp knife. Sawyer has another filter (PointZero Two) with even finer but slower filtration if viruses are a problem. I suspend the water from the ceiling and use some ordinary 1/4 inch vinyl tubing to give a bit more head pressure. I would recommend a pre-filter of some sort if your source has a lot of particulates. Very highly recommended and much better than other filters i have used.
Do not use the squeeze bags that come with the kit. They leak immediately. I almost docked it a star for that, but there were so many warnings from other reviewers & I liked the filter (other than the squeeze bag) so well, that I just graded the filter for function & performance. I use my old platypus 1 liter bladder bag to push the water through the filter. That works great. I have recommended it to friends.
Buy Sawyer SP181 PointOne Emergency Water Filtration Kit Now
We heard that people tend to get diarrhea in Nepal so we bought this. We were able to filter tap water in Kathmandu and Pokhara for drinking.Read Best Reviews of Sawyer SP181 PointOne Emergency Water Filtration Kit Here
The Sawyer filter kit gets great reviews every where. They are the best. This is one of the most versatile of all the Sawyer kits.It screws onto a standard water or soda bottle, had two water bags included in the kit, adapt to most home water fixtures, and has the adapter and drill bit to fabricate a water bucket using any (food grade) plastic container. This allows the kit to be used on the go, in camp, or at home during an emergency. Sawyer offers several other kits, but I found this kit to be the best value.
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This worked awesome to filter water for our camp. Only thing was the hose adapter split the first day but that may have been due to high pump pressure from the pump we used. Still worked very well.Save 16% off
Subzero 750ml Concave Metropolitain Style Bottles Save 50% off
these bottles are ok. I bought them for the price and plan on selling the rest. I had a subzero bottle before, but the shorter, wider and non rubberized one. This container doesn''t keep the water cold as long as my other one. And u can feel the coldness through this bottle when u hold it to drink. Also I''ve used it 5-7 times already and I still taste a metallic taste, which is what I wanted to avoid. I''ve tried cleaning it and soaking it, but it stills has the metal taste. I really like the color though and how it''s slim and fits into everything. Also having 2 choices for tops is pretty nice. All in all it is better and more eco friendly than water bottles.Save 50% off
Boeshield T-9 Rust & Corrosion Protection Waterproof Lubrication 4oz (liquid) Save 93% off
I used T9 for several years with my last bike in Chicago. Lots of snow, salt, rain, and other yuckies. I used my bike as my primary means of transportation. At the end of those years (when my bike was finally stolen) my chain, crankshaft, and cassette were still gleaming silver and pristine, like when I bought them. I didn''t use T9 particularly often, nor take particularly good care of the bike. I wiped it off from time to time, then added more T9 (which emulsifies the old T9), then ran a rag over it to absorb the excess. Easy as pie. The only downside with that situation was that I was using the aerosol can. When you use the can you get lube everywhere you want it, but also everywhere you don''t, like on the rim and your brakes. Very annoying, no matter how careful you are.Anyway, I bought a new bike recently and am again in a very wet place (central Pennsylvania) and using my bike every day for commuting. I asked the bike guys for advice and they suggested Purple Extreme Wet Ride. It''s a heavy, waterproof oil that''s supposed to last a really long time and resist water super-well. I used it for a while but it is markedly inferior in many ways: 1) everywhere there was enough lube it immediately collected dust and turned into a VERY thick paste 2) everywhere the lube was thinner I started getting little rust spots 3) if your clothes ever touch anything with lube, you will have a nasty black spot 4) it''s incredibly difficult to remove the paste, even with solvents. I finally got sick of that oil and (through a lengthy, very difficult process) removed all of it that I could. It was an inferior protectant and a much dirtier product. I will say, though, that the heavy oil is much better for squeaky doors. I''ve used both it and T9 for that purpose and the oil is much more effective and long lasting. Just don''t let any get on your bike.
Remembering my good experience with T9 I bought this here on Amazon. THIS is the right lube product. Buy it in a drippy bottle like this. It takes a little more time and care to get a drop of the lube everywhere you want it with this stuff, but at the end you don''t have any residual lube all over the frame and wheel. I will never again use the aerosol can unless it is on a part I remove from my bike and then spray down in isolation. Just make sure with this bottle that you are very thorough because there are all sorts of tiny little spots that need lubing and protection that you may not notice until they start rusting or wearing out. Also be sure to clean the bike very thoroughly before applying this, because when it dries the waxy coating will hold a piece of grit on there really hard. If you put this on a brand new bike, it will gleam like it is new for a long, long time. Don''t listen to lube advice that suggests only getting lube on the interior surfaces of, for example, your chain. This is an excellent protectant and pretty clean, so put it on both interior and exterior surfaces. Everywhere there is bare metal. Because it''s clear and thin on application it can be hard to tell whether something is coated to I run my finger over every surface to ensure I get some on it.
So how does it work? T9 is primarily marketed as an excellent rust protectant, not a lubricant. The latter function is sort of incidental. It comes out very, very watery and is attracted to metal. You put a drop on and capillary action sucks it in to penetrate in a very thorough manner. But it''s very, very light and watery when you first apply it. After, like, a day the solvent part of it dries out and you get a waxy residue. There''s also a light, oily film. There is a common misconception that this is a wax lube and completely clean. It is not, it is a waxY lube, and the light oil does pick up dust, but only a little bit of it. That is, as you ride the first time it picks up a little bit of dust and the light oil discolors, but it doesn''t pick up more and more and more over time. If you wipe your finger or clothes over it after it has "dried," you will pick up a little bit of the light oil and it will be dirty, but it''s nothing compared to a heavy oil lubricant. It washes off your clothes or fingers easily and doesn''t stain to the same degree as an oil lube would. So be aware, it''s a clean-ish lube, not a clean one.
People often say about lube that you should wipe off any you can get to because it''s only the internal stuff that matters. I would say that with T9 that is not correct. First of all, it''s very light so you don''t end up putting on too much no matter how you apply it. Even a very light coat will dirty up a little bit and very heavy coats also dirty up just a little bit, but the latter lubricates and protects better. In my opinion, it''s best to apply generously, to both internal and external surfaces. It''s just not a messy, goopy product so this is not a problem. Put as much on as will stay. The lubrication and protection will be superior and the mess will not be significantly more.
I will say this: the bottle says to wait like two hours before riding. This is serious advice. In fact, I would say it''s better to wait overnight or even longer. When it is in its liquid form, it can pick up dirt very easily and then that dirt will dry into it. Not what you want. This is NOT the type of lube you put a bit on right before a ride. Always apply this a LONG time before you have to go out. I would say get in the habit of cleaning and lubing your bike after a ride, not before. When it is in its liquid form not only will it attract dirt but it will not lubricate properly.
Anyway, it''s an excellent rust protectant if applied liberally. Keeps the bike rust free and clean. How is it at lubricating? Well, my bike is quieter when I use it than it was when I used the heavy oil. That''s some feat. I''m not sure how else you can measure lubricating ability. I think what happens is that the waxy build up is very robust. It gets on the surface of your gears and your chain and keeps it quiet. Does it allow metal to metal sliding to occur with low friction? I''m not sure how I could test that. I have heard people say wax is a less effective lubricant than oil and I am willing to believe it, but I don''t know of any way to measure actual internal friction. It certainly doesn''t feel any harder to pedal. If we use quietness as our measure, this is the best lube I''ve ever used.
Some reviews talk about this stuff stinking. That must have been an older formulation because this has almost no odor. It''s one of the least stinky products you will find. It definitely has a solvent in it that gets in the air, so lube in a ventilated place, but even nearby people won''t smell it.
I have heard people complain about this lube and I can almost always see that they are using it incorrectly. My suggestion on how to use it:
1. Apply to a clean, clean bike.
2. Put as much on as will stay. Be generous.
3. Apply to all surfaces, internal and external. Be thorough.
4. Don''t wipe any away (unless you are using it to remove old lube, in which case you should put more on after).
5. Allow to dry a long time, at least overnight.
6. Don''t be fooled into thinking the lube got dirty and gross just because the light oil has turned brown or black. The waxy base will still be clean and the light oil doesn''t attract enough dirt to cause wear.
It doesn''t require frequent application. It resists rain, snow, and salt very well. It is easy to clean off the bike prior to re-application because the dirt and salt doesn''t soak in to the lube. I''d say toss a bit more on once a month or once every couple of months. It really does last a long time and work well. Just be sure not to skimp on it. The idea with this stuff is not to put as little on as possible. That''s more of a technique for use with oil-based lubes.
One of the big problems with this is that it is clean enough and dry enough that sometimes you can''t tell whether there''s enough on it or whether it needs reapplication. I just get in the habit of lubing once in a while despite the fact that my bike doesn''t start making noise or rusting. It may well be that this stuff actually lasts, like, all year but I never go that long without applying. It definitely does not wash off in the rain. I think maybe rain can remove the light oil and the wax is so clear you may think it''s gone, but it is not.
Even if you are very, very generous and lube often, this bottle will last a long time. With the spray bottle that''s less true, so definitely get this.
Great for dry weather and wet, cold weather and hot. It''s a good mix of clean, long lasting, and effective, though probably not the best lube in any one of those respects. It probably is the best rust preventer, though, and one of the easiest lubes to apply. All around a five-star product.
Buy Boeshield T-9 Rust & Corrosion Protection Waterproof Lubrication 4oz (liquid) Now
Not sticky or oily like oily type products but it does pick up a bit of dust when riding on the dirt. Lasts considerably longer than wax or paraffin based products. Also lasts longer than the typical dry lube or teflon type lube. Best if applied several hours before, and then wiped after it has soaked into the chain and dried. Cleans up easily with a brush and does not leave the kind of residue that requires cleaning metal parts with solvent. As with any bike chain lube, clean your chain with a proper brush prior to applying lube, otherwise you are just liquifying dirt into the places you are trying to protect.I use T-9 on all of my bicycles Touring, road racer, mountain bike. Seems to work well in all weather conditions. Lube it up, wipe the excess and let it dry for a few hours. You don''t have to use as often as those waxy lubes either.Want Boeshield T-9 Rust & Corrosion Protection Waterproof Lubrication 4oz (liquid) Discount?
simple to use. great product. one drop on each link then let the chain dry. wipe off excess and you''re ready to go. my drive train spins quietly and smoothly. it even kept my chain lubricated after my bike traveled 700+ miles on the top of my car, some of which were in the rain. i highly recommend it. NOTE: be sure to clean your chain before you use it.Save 93% off
Elite Ciussi Side Bicycle Water Bottle Cage Save 15% off
I bought these cages because I have a smaller frame bike and have had difficulty getting my bottles in and out of their cages. To call the Elite Ciussi Side Cage "side loading" is a misnomer. Yes, there is an opening on the side, but the opening is so small that I have to cram the bottle in with more force than is safe to do while riding. I''ve conceded to top-loading the bottles, which is still difficult, but easier than side-loading, by comparison. The fit is so tight that I have to toggle the bottle to remove it. For the price, I would have expected something much more refined. I''d return them if they weren''t already an exchange. My cheap LBS cages do a better job.Save 15% off
Crocodile Creek Fire Truck Kids Drinking Bottle
We bought these bottles (along with the backpacks) because we were looking for an eco-option for our kids, to replace plastic bottles and juice boxes.Problems: 1) the paint chips ALOT, even though we handwashed them; 2) the stainless steel reacts with the juice we put in the bottle (apple, grape) making it rancid (must not be food-grade stainless); 3) the tops leaked unless closed VERY tightly and even then they were loose. My kids could get liquid from the pull-up spout without it even being pulled out; 4) All the parts were hard to clean. The tops didn''t clean in the dishwasher so I finally had to just leave them soaking every night in hot soapy water.
I like Crocodile Creek''s other products but this one is not a winner.
Thoughts?
Brian
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My little guys love drinking from these fun bottles and I feel great that it''s stainless steel... a safe drinking bottle for them. Very happy with our purchase!!!Read Best Reviews of Crocodile Creek Fire Truck Kids Drinking Bottle Here
My three-year-old loves his firetruck bottle. The only problem is that it leaks if it tips over. As long as I make sure it''s upright, it works.Want Crocodile Creek Fire Truck Kids Drinking Bottle Discount?
My son loves this! It is easy to use, spill proof when closed obviously, but that is a major plus,
Katadyn Vario Multi Flow Water Microfilter Save 13% off
I recently went to the Ecuadorian Amazon and spent a week living in the rain forest with indigenous people. I went on long treks and relied on the Vario to deliver drinking water from streams I passed on the way. The fact that I never got sick is a testament to the effectiveness of the Vario.It was easy to hook up directly to my CamelBak, so there was no chance of contamination. Whenever I used it, I had it in the "longer life" setting where you pump a little less water per minute, but it passes through both filters inside. I''ve used several other filters and the speed and ease which I was able to fill up my 100oz Camelbak is far superior to any of them. The pumping motion is easy to use and it pumps a lot more water even on the "Longer life" (slow) setting than other filters.
Overall I think it is a fantastic product that I would recommend to anyone traveling to locations where you don''t know if you can trust the water.
I bought this instead of Katadyn''s Pocket Microfilter (found for $179 on some sites at the time) for 4 main reasons:
1) ability to attach directly to Nalgene bottle. I''ll be using this primarily while living overseas in areas w/questionable tap water, so this is a nice convenience. Don''t think the Pocket filter allows this.
2)2-stage filter w/activated charcoal to remove chemicals, pesticides & bad taste. This option isn''t available w/the ceramic-only Pocket Microfilter, and again was something I want specifically due to where I''m going. If chemicals aren''t an issue where you''ll be, this aspect might not matter to you.
3) Double-piston design for faster output & ease of use compared to the Pocket Microfilter. Pumping action was simple & ergonomic.
4) Cost. $80 is great compared to $180+. I may regret that mentality if/when this breaks, but for now it''s a good deal.
Three things so far that I''m not excited about:
1) Although they state that the paper carbon "cartridge" is good for 500 gallons, the instructions say that the activated charcoal INSIDE the cartridge should be replaced about every 50 gallons or every 6 months, depending on chemical content/taste of the water. I felt deceived after discovering this omission from the reviews I read. Not printed anywhere in their online documentation, but REI does mention it. Without the charcoal, I might as well have purchased the more expensive Pocket filter w/lifetime warranty & just use a separate PUR/Brita pitcher for taste & chemicals (which I''ll probably do anyway)... (The pocket filter''s ceramic filter has a life of 13,000 gallons, compared to the 1000 gallons of the Vario''s ceramic pre-filter).
2) The back-pressure & leaking issues mentioned by people in other reviews seem to be true, but mainly occur after removing the "source" tube to flush the system. After a few pumps, handle resistance increases & it wouldn''t lower fully. I have to unscrew the pump head to release the pressure, which of course splatters water everywhere. This could potentially contaminate your filtered water if you''re not careful.
3) This doesn''t seem like the simplest system to use, clean & maintain. Several O-rings & moving parts to deal with. Also, the plastic housing may or may not hold up over time. We''ll see.
Since I need a filter for travel/living overseas where the water is allegedly contaminated both w/chemicals and biological stuff, I''ll keep this around & replace the charcoal until it breaks. After I get back, I''ll probably get the more expensive filter for camping/backpacking use. This one is a bit large too, but hopefully will be ok.
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The inlet connector broke after the first day of our 7 day canoe trip. We are not rough with our filters as we have had our other filter for several years with no issues like this. We just wanted something that wouldn''t clog so quickly.We spent the rest of the trip either floating in the water next to or leaning over the side of the canoe with the filter submerged to enable us to pump clean water. Also, there is a little plug under the ceramic filter that will stop all water flow if it gets pushed in. This seemed to happen if the pressure in the filter built up by pumping too quickly. We had to disassemble and reassemble the filter several times to correct this issue.
When the filter was working, it was fast and filtered very well. The ceramic pre-filter was great. The water was clean, clear and tasted great. If this filter was more durable I would give it 4 or 5 stars.
Hope this helps anyone in the market for a water filter.
Read Best Reviews of Katadyn Vario Multi Flow Water Microfilter Here
Since I''ve got a lot of water filter/purifiers, I feel I can safely and objectively compare my experience with them in reviewing this Vario. For sure, it''s a little heavier and bulkier than say, a Hiker Pro. At it''s best, it works great. At it''s worst...well, more about that later.First the pros and cons;
Pro;
1. It can pump fast and with only mild effort. The bidirectional pump action can really move the water, especially if you have it setup to bypass the ceramic disk.
2. I love the threaded bottle adapter built in to the base. Very nice if you''re used to trying to balance everything on rocks!
3. The charcoal bit removes most unpleasant flavors. Mind you, if the water really smells horrible to start with, you''re limited with what the charcoal can do.
4. Good instructions, packaging, decent carry bag, little tube of silicon lubricant is a nice touch from a reputable company.
Cons:
1. It can refuse to start pumping. The wonderful piston/valve assemblies that move so much water can ''air-lock'' and stop pumping. And it can take quite a bit of voodoo/fiddling to get it pumping again.
2. Any filter with a ceramic portion needs a silt pre-filter to prevent clogging. This one is no exception. (A silt pre-filter will also greatly extend the life of the pleated paper filter cartridge.)
3. The fragile plastic inlet barb sticks out awkwardly toward the back and is very unprotected. I suspect it''s no accident that the inlet barb is always positioned where it can''t be seen in the product photos and videos.
4. In my experienced opinion, I believe there is a design flaw in the flow path. On the bottom of the paper filter there is an o-ring that separates the contaminated water from the filtered water output. (Which also comes out the bottom.) If that o-ring were nicked, damaged, or missing, contaminated water would leak directly to the output stream. Of course, if the o-ring is kept in perfect shape, this wouldn''t happen...but I tend to think in ''worst-case'' rather than ''best-case''. That''s one of the reasons I filter my water rather than drinking it directly from a stream.
Conclusion;
In short, when it works it works great. It would probably be best for world travelers who could protect the fragile inlet barb and who wouldn''t expose the filter to too much grit or silt.
If you''re wanting to use it backpacking, I''d recommend a simpler, more robust design.
One last thought:
More of a tip really. If you have one of these, you''ll note they protect the inlet barb during shipping with a red plastic cover cap. While you certainly can use that red plastic piece to cap the barb when traveling, it is EXTREMELY IMPORTANT that you NOT try to pump the handle with the red protective cap still on. There are little rubber ''valves'' in the pump that can potentially be damaged while trying to pump too hard against a vacuum.
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I''ve had mine out multiple times and so far it''s worked flawlessly. One item to note is that the intake connection sticks out from the side of the unit and is plastic. I would prefer to have had it covered or protected but I just make certain I pack it so that part won''t get stressed.As others have said, this thing filters water extremely fast. I''ve not had to use it in situations where the water has been highly contaminated or loaded with sediment so I can''t say whether it has issues in those situations. The bottom is sized to screw right onto many water bottles and hydration bladders which saves having to use the outlet tube (included). Since I don''t camp every week, I follow the long-term storage instructions on the unit before packing it away. This involves running 1L of water with either Katadyn''s water purifier tablets or a small amount of bleach through the unit. Next comes removal of the ceramic disc filter to be scrubbed off, and finally removal of the paper/carbon filter to allow it to air dry. After about 24 hours I put some included silicone lubricant on the O-rings and put it back together. I haven''t replaced the activated charcoal yet but it''s not difficult to find and not overly expensive. If the unit is dried properly the charcoal should last quite a while.
The filter parts have tabs which are designed to make certain the unit goes back together properly, but I have to wonder if some of the problems reported are the result of improper re-assembly after cleaning.
I will agree with others that it is a bit bulky (it doesn''t present any problems for my pack) but it''s also pretty light, and compared to some of the more compact units, this one produces a lot more filtered water a lot faster. As with most camping products, the buyer should consider the tradeoffs of ultra-small and lightweight vs. lower expense and more usability.
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MLB San Francisco Giants Stainless Steel Travel Mug & Black Ceramic Mug Set
Excellent product & experience. Two orders were placed don''t know how but I was able to return the extra order free of charge & was credited for the extra offer. Great experience!!!!!!!!!!
NFL Baltimore Ravens Two Piece 15-Ounce Glass Tankard Set
I love these! I got them for my boyfriend for Christmas, and he really likes them too. They are a little smaller than I was expecting, but it does hold a can of beer, or a can of soda w/out ice. The logos are my favorite part though, extremely nice. They aren''t just painted on like some mugs I''ve looked at they are raised and look really nice. Perfect for the price too, they look like they are worth more. They were shipped very timely as well. I''m very satisfied with this purchase.
DAJO Adventure Gear Stainless Steel Bottle with Carabiner Clip Cap Save 4% off
Bought two bottles, one for me and one for my friend. These are high quality stuff. There is no color paint over its body. Look little nice and classy over those painted bottles. The carabiner clip cap is cool too, useful to hang with your bags etc. I would prefer them over Sigg or other brands
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I''ve used this on a long trek in the Himalayas...mainly for holding boiling water. The cap fits tight and the construction is very durable.Read Best Reviews of DAJO Adventure Gear Stainless Steel Bottle with Carabiner Clip Cap Here
This is a good looking unit, with a good capacity. Unfortunately, they definitely flavor the water, especially if water is kept in them overnight. I have replaced them with another brand, and there is no odd flavor to the water.Want DAJO Adventure Gear Stainless Steel Bottle with Carabiner Clip Cap Discount?
I love this Bottle! 32oz of water is perfect for me for an 8hr day work and it''s a stainless steel. I might need more if I didn''t have a 20oz mug of tea.This bottle is just Perfect!
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THERMOS HP4000SM6 INTAK(R) 24-OZ HYDRATION BOTTLE
I have been using this bottle straight for over 2 weeks and I am very happy with it. The only thing that would be better is if it were an electronic, instead of rotational. Still very good product though