• Sig Bravo4 4×30 MegaView Battle Sight

    Dec 29 • Reviews • 30354

    Prismatic sights like the Sig Bravo4 offer a rugged, fixed power, illuminated optic in a compact package that pairs exceptionally well with ARs. While there are lots of options for the entry level budget, the premium side has long been ruled by the ACOG. But now a challenger has entered the ring.

     

    Bravo4 vs ACOG 4x32

    Bravo4 vs ACOG 4×32

     

    Sig Bravo4 Overview

    The Sig Bravo4 4×30 is a 4x magnification prism sight with a 30mm objective lens. Like others in its class, it is a robust design with an integrated mount that is ready to go from the box to your AR. The reticle features drop compensation marks (5.56/7.62 or 300BLK) and windage hold points. The illumination has both daytime visible and night vision settings. You can even mount an accessory like a mini red dot on top.

    What sets this optic apart is the details. The MegaView prism system yields a 10 degree field of view, 42% wider than current battle sights and the Low Dispersion glass provides a distortion-free image with edge-to-edge clarity. The magnesium housing that encases the glass offers durability and protection without extra weight. The reticle illumination is even motion activated, powering up when it detects movement and powering down when it does not, extending your battery life.

    Sig Bravo4

    Sig Bravo4

    Bravo4 4×30 Specs

    Eye Relief: 2.2 inches                                                      Field of View: 53ft @ 100 yds

    Weight: 14.8 oz                                                                 Overall Length: 6.25 inches

    Height: 3 inches                                                                 Mount Length: 3.4 inches

    Width: 2 inches                                                                 Optical Center: 1.535”

    Adjustment Click Value: ½ MOA                                 W/E Adjustment Range: 68 MOA

    Waterproof: IPX-8 (400 mbar or 13ft)                         Battery: CR2

    Magnification: 4x                                                              Objective lens diameter: 30mm

     

    First Impression

    While the optic may look bulky, the second you take it from the box you notice that it is not the boat anchor you were expecting. It is well balanced and once you have it mounted on a rifle you won’t ponder the weight again.

    The eyepiece is quite large so getting a cover to fit it is unlikely. But that large eyepiece is worth it for the generous eyebox it provides. Once I adjusted the diopter for a crisp reticle, I didn’t need to touch it again. The reticle was very usable, offering meaningful hold points without feeling cluttered or too thick to use on distant targets. The illumination can be seen in bright conditions but I prefer to leave the illumination off most of the time.

    My only critiques are of the quick detach mount. It stands out from the rest of the optic, looking almost like it was an afterthought. Also I wish there was an adapter to cantilever the optic more. While the optic clears back up iron sights, you sacrifice potential eye relief and need to have your nose on the charging handle.

    20171107_150410

    Bravo4 clearing Knights rear iron sight

     

    Summary

    While this may not be an “ACOG killer” for most, Sig made a great first attempt at this optic segment and there is lots of potential here for the Bravo4. Having a wider field of view helps with engaging moving targets and providing a more complete picture of the situation downrange. The generous eyebox also helps with speedy target acquisition while the ballistic reticle assists in first round hits on target regardless of distance. Small tweaks, like upgrading the mount or even getting 3rd party mounting options, would go a long way to making this a strong contender. A little skeletonizing of the current body would help as well, although that’s mostly for aesthetics. Bottom line, if you are looking for a high quality, hard use optic for your AR then the Sig Bravo4 is definitely an option to consider.

     

    Bravo4 next to ACOG 4×32

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  • Dream 3-Gun AR Build

    Dec 29 • Reviews, News • 65558

    I’ve made a decision – my 2018 resolution is to improve my shooting skill set, and my method is going to be participating in local 3-Gun competitions. While practicing, drills, and techniques are an important step to achieving this goal, I also decided to build a brand new AR. While you can start shooting 3-Gun with basic gear, I’m still a competitor and wanted something that would offer an  edge. Plus, building an AR is a lot of fun. After a lot of research and consulting a few of the top 3-Gunners out there, I have finally built my dream AR. It is purpose-built for competitions, with some aesthetic flair included. While there are tons of options I could have gone with, I think this build offers high value for both beginners and experienced competitors alike.

    Receiver Set: I chose to go with the F-1 Firearms skeletonized lower and upper. Other than being ridiculously good looking, the weight reduction is noticeable. The set includes an oversized trigger guard, installed front and rear takedown pins, and uses screws for bolt catch, receiver tensioning, takedown pin detent and trigger adjustment. There is no ejection port cover or forward assist with this set, which I prefer for competition setups.

    Lower Parts Kit: For my lower parts kit I used the CMMG kit, but noticed that I didn’t need many of the parts as they were included with the F-1 lower. I chose the ODIN Works gen 3 extended magazine release to add some color to my AR, and that also came with the mag catch attached. It is never a bad idea to have spare small parts, so I would still recommend getting a lower parts kit.

    F-1 Firearms Upper / Lower and CMMG Lower Parts Kit

    F-1 Firearms Upper / Lower and CMMG Lower Parts Kit

    Trigger: The trigger is one of the first upgrades people make to factory ARs. A quality trigger can make all the difference in competitions, or even in the field. After much debate on which brand I should go with, I decided to use the American Trigger AR Gold Flat. This trigger is a drop-in assembly featuring a very crisp short reset and a 3.5lb pull. It is very reliable and is used by many top competitive shooters. Installation was very easy and it came with its own trigger pins.

    American Trigger AR Gold Flat AR-15 Drop-In Trigger

    American Trigger AR Gold Flat AR-15 Drop-In Trigger

    Grip: After getting my hands on a few different models, my grip of choice is the Ergo Grip AR15/M15 Tactical Deluxe. I love how sticky it feels, just what I need when my palms get sweaty, and the design fits perfectly in my hands. Price-wise I think it’s a couple of bucks more expensive than the Magpul options I saw, but it felt so right that the extra cost was worth it.

    Ergo Grip AR15/M16 Tactical Deluxe Rifle Grip

    Ergo Grip AR15/M16 Tactical Deluxe Rifle Grip

    Buffer Tube: The buffer tube I decided to go with comes with its own buttstock. It is made by Battle Arms Development. It’s a fixed length of pull, very light and comes with a QD end plate. If you are looking for a low-weight setup with a minimalistic looks,  but don’t want to compromise on style, the Battle Arms Development Rifle Length Lightweight Fixed ButtStock Combo is the setup for you. I just love the looks, and installation was both simple and quick. Because of the unique design, there is no need to use a Castle Nut when you assemble it, and the aircraft grade aluminum from which it is made makes it a very durable piece. Did I mention how lightweight it is? Only 7.5 oz.,  unheard of for an entire tube with a stock!

    Battle Arms Development Lightweight Fixed ButtStock Combo / Qd End Plate

    Battle Arms Development Lightweight Fixed ButtStock Combo / Qd End Plate

    Barrel: For my barrel, recommendations were divided between using an 18” barrel and a 16” barrel. I ended up going with the 18” one because a couple of the pro shooters that were helping me out said they are using 18” mostly for recoil management. Liking that logic, I picked the 18” Criterion Barrels, Fluted barrel. The brand Criterion Barrels had a lot of good reviews from people who are into 3-Gun, good quality and affordable price, plus I loved the fluted silver look on my system.

    Criterion Barrels AR-15 Fluted Rifle Gas System Barrel

    Criterion Barrels AR-15 Fluted Rifle Gas System Barrel

    Bolt Carrier Group: For my BCG I got the JP polished stainless LMOS carrier and the JP enhanced bolt assembly group. If you are into competitive shooting, I’m sure you are familiar with the JP Enterprises brand name. JP is a benchmark brand when it comes to competitive shooting, and their products are simply superb.

    JP Enterprises Polished Stainless LMOS Carrier and Enhanced Bolt Assembly Group

    JP Enterprises Polished Stainless LMOS Carrier and Enhanced Bolt Assembly Group

    Gas Block: Since I went with the LMOS BCG it was recommend I get an adjustable gas block, making the JP Enterprises .750 adjustable gas block an easy choice.

    JP Enterprises .750 Adjustable Silver Gas Block

    JP Enterprises .750 Adjustable Silver Gas Block

    Muzzle Device: Keeping with the theme of quality, I chose the JP 3 Port Barrel Compensator for even better recoil management.

    JP Enterprises 3 Port Silver Barrel Compensator .750

    JP Enterprises 3 Port Silver Barrel Compensator .750

    Handguard: Given that my AR was front heavy because of the barrel and muzzle, I wanted to get the lightest possible handguard. There were several options that use carbon fiber but my favorite choice ended up being the 15.5” ODIN Works O2 Lite free float forend. It is a low profile, super light (only 7oz) and durable handguard. It is very comfortable in my hand and I have to say that it looks phenomenal with my skeletonized receiver, making the BCG-Barrel-Muzzle look like the silver skeleton inside of my black AR.

    ODIN Works O2 Lite Free Float M-LOK Forend

    ODIN Works O2 Lite Free Float M-LOK Forend

    Optic: No competition AR is going to be complete without a quality optic on top. For myself I actually picked 2 different combinations that I’m going to test out and see what works best for me. My first combination consists of a Primary Arms Platinum Series 1-8x24mm Riflescope with the unique ACSS reticle and a Kinetic Development Group SIDELOK mount. The glass on this scope is just phenomenal. The adjustable 1-8 magnification range seems to be the top choice amongst all the top 3-Gun competitors. The clarity and quality is just amazing. The 1x is a real 1x, which is not as common as one might think in the low powered variable optics world. The scope is rugged so it will be able to get some hard use and punishment from throwing the AR into the barrels as well as any other potential obstacles that might bang up the scope. Primary Arms really hit a home run with this high-end scope, as it can easily compete against scopes that cost 2-3 times more than it, giving the shooter a ton of value for its price. The scope has a 34mm tube diameter so I used the Kinetic Development Group SIDELOK Cantilever Modular Scope mount. The quick attach/detach without the use of any tools is awesome when you know that your next stage will not need or not allowed to have any optics on top of it.

    Primary Arms Platinum Series 1-8X24mm Riflescope with ACSS Reticle

    Primary Arms Platinum Series 1-8X24mm Riflescope with ACSS Reticle

    My second optics combo is actually much more cost friendly, and yet offers great value, especially for beginners who don’t want to pay the high-end optics price. It is the Vortex Strike Eagle 1-8x24mm, mounted on the Vortex Cantilever ring mount for 30mm tubes. Because it has the smaller tube, I was actually able to pair it with a Vortex Razor Red Dot Reflex Sight, mounted at a 45 degree angle on the Vortex 45 degree mount. Since 3-Gun is all about speed (and accuracy) I found that by setting my strike eagle to 2-4X and using the small Red Dot Sight at 45 degree allows me to switch almost seamlessly (after lots of practice) between the various target distances while maintaining my form, flow and speed.

    Vortex Strike Eagle 1-8x24mm Riflescope and Vortex Razor Red Dot Reflex Sight

    Vortex Strike Eagle 1-8x24mm Riflescope and Vortex Razor Red Dot Reflex Sight

    There are benefits to using either combo 1 or 2. Price, quality, brand name, warranty, weight and so on. But like all good shooters will tell you, it’s all about practicing and pressure testing to find what works best for you.

    Premier Arms and Vortex Side by Side

    Primary Arms and Vortex Side by Side

    I hope you find this article a useful in getting some ideas for your future build / upgrade. Not everyone will agree with the parts I chose but in skilled hands, I think my build can run with the best of them. Leave us a comment below to let us know what you think.

    Complete build

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  • Leupold VX3i LRP 4.5-14×50 FFP

    Dec 27 • Reviews • 14319

    Long range shooting is becoming more popular and more accessible every year. Both long range hunters and precision rifle competitors demand accuracy and usability. Leupold delivered the VX-3i LRP to answer that demand. Combining their proven clarity and resolution with common long range features makes the VX-3i LRP exactly what precision shooters appreciate.

    VX3i LRP Overview

    The VX-3i LRP 4.5-14×50 FFP is my preferred model, as it is the shortest length and has a usable low magnification for shorter engagement distances. All the models in the VX3i LRP line have integrated throw levers, side focus, and exposed elevation turrets. But the 4.5-14x FFP is only offered in MIL reticles/turrets while the other models are available in either MOA or MIL reticles/turrets. Leupold also offers both Second Focal Plane and First Focal Plane models in the VX3i LRP line to match your shooting style.

     

    LRP

    4.5-14×50 FFP Specs

    Weight: 20.3 oz                                                                 Eye Relief: Low – 4.41 inches, High – 3.62 inches

    FOV (ft/100 yds): Low – 20.5, High – 7.6                  Adjustment Click Value: 1/10 MIL

    Elevation Range: 23.3 MIL                                            Windage Range: 23.3 MIL

    Reticles: TMR or CCH                                                     Length: 12.3 inches

    Tube Diameter: 30mm

    FFP TMR Reticle

    FFP TMR Reticle

    FFP CCH Reticle

    FFP CCH Reticle

    First Impression

    Mounting this scope on my 5.56 AR was painless. I have plenty of 30mm mounts and the generous eye relief made placement easy. Once I got out to the range, I got on paper at 50yds and then finalized my zero at 100yds. I capped the windage turret afterwards and didn’t touch it again. A capped windage elevation turret is ideal as it can easily get bumped off your desired setting during transportation when it is exposed. But you can set up the turret to be exposed with an included thread protector if that is your preference.

    The exposed elevation turret is easy to read and make adjustments, due to the tactile clicks and 5 MIL increment travel indicator. The turret might be a little tall for some shooter’s preference but I didn’t find it to be an issue. While I was using holdovers for most of my shooting, I would definitely be dialing in elevation for anything greater than 200 yards.

    Another feature I really appreciated is the integrated throw lever. This is usually something you have to buy separate. I usually do purchase one since having a throw lever makes both gross and fine magnification changes much easier. So not having to spend the extra money/time to acquire one was great.

     

    Summary

    Overall I think this scope offers a ton of value. It focuses on the optical quality and usable features that long range shooters need, especially newcomers. Illuminated reticle options would be nice to have in a perfect world but they are not a necessity. The VX3i LRP line from Leupold is an excellent choice for both new or experienced long range shooters, whether hunting or shooting competition.

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  • Outdoor Gear

    The Best Outdoor Gear For 2018

    Dec 22 • News • 26929

    Want to know the best new outdoor gear for 2018?  We have you covered

    Outdoor Hiking

    After hours of exhaustive research we have done it – we have selected the best of the best outdoor gear for the upcoming year.  So, whether you need an ultra-light cross-bow for hunting season, a propane stove to help you while camping, or rugged kicks for taking more than a stroll in the woods, our specially selected and researched new gear for the New Year will be sure to help.

     

     


     

    Mug

    Cauldryn Fyre Mobile Water Bottle

    $129.99

    Whether you’re camping in furthest most remote area of the Amazon Basin, or you’re commuting to work downtown on a jam packed freeway you now have the ability to keep your beverage cool for long periods of time OR as hot as you want ALL DAY LONG.  Not only does the vacuum insulated stainless steel keep the cool in, but what makes this a truly special mug is that the mobile battery packs enough juice to keep your mocha latte the ideal temperature even if it is to a boil.  This mug also has USB outlets to charge your phone in a pinch.  This is truly the ultimate mug.

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    CuddeLink

    CuddeLink Long Range IR

    $199.99

    Trail cameras are some of the best scouting tools you can have.  Part of the problem with most of the conventional ones is that you have to go out manually checking them, and if you have multiple cameras that presents even more obstacles – leaving your scent in the woods and making noise scaring away your potential hunt to just name a few.  The cool thing about the CuddeLink is that it offers a meshed network in which the cameras send pictures to one home camera and then to you.  You can link up to 15 cameras (16 if you include the home one), letting the cameras do the work of helping you learn more about the wildlife in your area.

     

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    Crossbow

    Ravin R15 Crossbow

    $1,999.99

    If you don’t want to be ruined for other crossbows, don’t shoot this one and turn away now.  The standard of speed, power, and quality that the R15 sets is near unparalleled by its competitors and will leave you feeling like the rest are just cannon fodder.  Beyond the speed and power, this compact and lightweight bow has a super quiet trigger and safety so prey won’t be warned off by loud clicks and clacks.  And, on top of all this it has an extra smooth crank and ultra-clear scope.  You’ll be bunching bullseye from 80yds out easily with this beauty from the get go.  The only downside to this is that it embeds the arrows so deep into the target, they are sometimes hard to get out, or even go straight through.

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    Slingback Chair

    Mountainsmith Slingback Chair

    $24.95

    After hours and hours of trekking through the wilderness what can be more inviting than a lounge chair?  But where on earth could you find one that is in the middle of nowhere?  That’s where the 3oz Slingback chair comes in.  built from super durable cordura material, it rolls up into a tidy little package for easy transport.  It has adjustable polls so it can fit people like me who usually find everything awkwardly small, and it has a pocket for foam pad to make things all the more comfortable and also gentle for people with back problems.

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    Binoculars

    Nikon Monarch HG

    $979.95

    The look and feel of the Nikon Monarch HG are the first things that are noticeable here.  They are extremely compact measuring just 5.5 inches in length, and sport an easy grip pebbled-rubber armor.  The overall look has the sense of a stylistic retro binocular, cool yet incredibly effective.  Not just impressive in looks and size the Monarch HG packs a ton of optical horsepower coming in both 8×42 and 10×42, coupled with a Field Flattener Lens new to the Monarch series giving a record-breaking field of view.  This gem is easy to use, and super bright and clear.

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    Tanto Knife

    FirstEdge TrackLock Tanto Assisted Opening Folding Knives

    $149.99

    The price of this knife is what makes it so tempting.  Generally, knives of these materials and craftsmanship sell for $200+ on a good day.  This guy is made of ELMAX steel, which in case you didn’t know, is a super wear resistant, high compression strength, corrosion resistant and has a superior ability to retain its size and form even after taking abuse.  The blade itself is ridiculously sharp.  It has a course detail G10 handle, which makes it one of the grippiest (if that’s a word) textured knives I’ve ever used.  As for looks, it is compact and has a really nice black oxide finish.  Perfect for hunting, camping, protection, and even in the water.

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    Spyderco Knife

    Spyderco Lil’ Sub-hilt

    $183.99

    Lil’ Sub Hilt is a smaller more compact and more every day carry version of the fuller size Spyderco Vallotton folder.  It has the same thick blade stock and CPM-S30V blade steel, with a compound ground tip and hollow ground primary cutting edge.  The deployment is extremely smooth with the standard design of a Spyderco hole and gliding feel of foster bronze washers.  The handle thickness seems slightly larger than normal, which I like for getting a better grasp on the knife, and providing a full four finger grip.  This knife is tremendous for protective purposes, but also has great utility in camping, hiking, or any other outdoor endeavors.

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    PowerRay

    PowerVision PowerRay Wizard Sonar Fishfinder

    $1,888.00

    Slightly expensive for most avid anglers, including myself – the PowerRay was just so cool of a gadget that it needed to be included.  It’s essentially an underwater mini submarine drone that gives you a view from your mobile app of real-time transmitted underwater photo and video.  Some of its features include a 70 meter communication cable, a bait drop, a PowerSeeker Fishfinder, and Zeiss VR ONE Plus Goggles.  This might truly be the easiest way on earth to catch fish, except for using sticks of dynamite.  This is also a super awesome way to check out marine life from the safety of your boat.

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    Wader Pants

    Compass 360 Deadfall Chest Wader

    $139.95

    There are not many better quality waders for under $200 than the Compass 360 Deadfall Chest Wader.  Made from a 100% waterproof, breathable four-ply nylon shell, this wader is super protective and super comfortable at the same time.  Two really cool parts of this are the center water resistant zippered pocket – where you can easily store your phone and wallet, and also the 4mm foot fit stretch neoprene booties, designed to prevent bunching.  With this kind of quality it’s hard to tell the difference between the Deadfall Chest Wader and the more super expensive waders.

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    Osprey Bigkit

    Osprey BigKit

    $150.00

    This huge bag is great for pretty much any sport that you’re looking to get into for the weekend, and is not just a big square of material with carrying straps.  This beauty made of tough ripstop nylon, is segmented into several easy to access zippered compartments, one is even big enough to hold your motorcycle or ski helmet.    This Osprey’s guarantee makes this a great long-term investment as well.

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    Nitecore Backpack

    Nitecore BP20 Multi-Purpose Backpack

    $69.95

    This bag, as opposed to the Osprey BigKit is more of an all day hiking or morning trek, or even tactical advantage bag.  Has plenty of size at 20 liters volume to carry clothing, a laptop, and your water bottle.  It comes with padded shoulder straps and a ventilated back to give you the most comfort possible for toting gear on long hiking trips in the forest or your morning trek to the trail cameras.

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    Mojo Critter

    Mojo Critter 2 Decoy

    $39.99

    If you’ve used the original Mojo Critter, then you know how awesome it is for drawing in predators, especially coyotes.  Its random motion tale movement is what makes this guy so tempting to the unsuspecting targets.  New and improved to the Critter 2 is it is more durable and user-friendly than the original critter with durable body, built-in tripod, drop-in Battery holder, and clips to hold both legs and topper when not in use.  The best rated prey lure, just got better.

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    Portable Grill

    UCO Flatpack Portable Grill and FirePit

    $35.98

    Very clever grill.  Folds up nicely into a small flat carrying pouch that comes with it.  Perfect size and weight for backpacking trips of any length, or for your basic small cook out, or even a tailgate.  Uses coal, wood chips, or even a durflame log.  Fits around 8 hotdogs, or 4 burger, or 2 small steaks.  Tough and durable, you should have this guy for years of meat cooking.

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    Sleeping Bag

    Slumberjack Lapland 0 Sleeping Bag

    $152.99

    Super comfortable and simple bag when  planning on camping in upper 20s and up.  The fit is slightly snug for us bigger guys, but that’s not a surprise with mummy bags, and actually preferable.  It has DriDown insulation on top, and is paired with an anti-compression Slumbersoft-PRO ground layer that keeps the warmth below you.  The Slumberjack has an “arms-out” option that I have yet to see on another bag that lets you free up your arms without leaving your bag.  It also comes with a practical mesh storage bag that keeps the down from being too compressed when not being packed.

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    Talon Shoes

    Inov8 X-Talon 200

    $129.95

    The main thing that pops out right away about these shoes are the traction grips at the bottom of the sole, you could almost call it a cleat.  The cleats grip well in wet grass and dirt on steep inclines and going down declines as well.  They have a minimalist style with wide toe box allowing the toes to spread out, they are also ultra-light and durable.  The perfect shoe for trail running or even doing an obstacle course.

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    Alpine Backpack

    Mammut Trion Light 38+ Alpine Backpack

    $159.95

    Not too big, not too small, just right.  Lightweight, compact, and has enough space for the layers you need during cold weather climbing.  The mesh-backed panel is really cool as it is breathable and is designed to shed snow.  It is also extremely adjustable, so that you can take out the t-frame, the top part, and the hip support, and easily use it as a day-to-day pack.

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    Jet Boil Stove

     

    Jet Boil MightyMo Stove

    $49.95

    Small enough to fit in your pocket, yet strong enough to bring your chicken soup to a boil in mere minutes.  Perfect for camping, hiking, or any longer outdoor excursion.  Great simmer control, extreme heat output on high, and is incredibly stable.  There is much not to like at that price.

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    Hammock

    Thermarest Slacker Hammock Double

    $79.95

    Made from super soft and super durable 100 percent ripstop polyester, this hammok is tougher and dries much faster than normal nylon.  It’s also ultra portable, stuffing into an integrated pocket, which also holds tablets and phones.  Set up a hammock virtually anywhere you feel like chilling out in the shade.  Super comfortable and fits up to 400lbs and people over 6ft.

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    Lighter

    UST TekFire Fuel-Free Lighter

    $17.90

    Are you like me and the slightest breeze keeps blowing out your lighter or match flame when camping?  Do you keep running out of lighter fluid at the most inopportune times?  Well then like me you could really use the TekFire lighter.  The “flame” is simply an electric arc between the two metal plates.  When it’s fully charged (via a micro usb port), it lasts a really long time.  Great also for climbers, and mountaineers as the flame requires no oxygen.  It’s also rugged looking with an orange rubber coating and is pretty darn tough.

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  • Leupold VX-5HD 3-15×44 CDS-ZL2: Unmatched Clarity

    Nov 16 • Reviews • 15180

     

    Clarity, quality, and performance driven. All things Leupold is known for and exactly what you get with the VX-5HD series of riflescopes. The VX5-HD offers the features you need in a sleek and lightweight package that is just as at home on an AR as it is on a bolt action rifle. The 5X magnification gives you a healthy working range regardless of what model you select, whether it is the 1-5×24 or my favorite which is the  VX-5HD 3-15×44 CDS-ZL2

    opplanet-leupold-vx-5hd-3-15x44mm-30mm-cds-zl2-side-focus-matte-duplex-reticle-riflescope-main

     

    The  VX-5HD 3-15×44 CDS-ZL2 is one of my favorite models in the lineup for a few reasons. Mounted on a DMR upper, it is the understated cherry on top. Paired up with your favorite hunting rifle, it is a game changer. Any setup you mount it on is not significantly affected by the weight and the scope performs wonderfully in virtually any scenario. The capped windage turret and ZeroLock elevation turret offer peace of mind from knocking your zero off, a common problem for both hunters and target shooters on the move. The CDS-ZL2 elevation turret not only locks in your zero, but also acts as a rotation counter as the button will sink into the turret on the second rotation. The included Custom Ballistic Dial offer is another Leupold staple, getting you on target at any range quick and easy.

    20171026_170844

     

    The amazing low-light performance is also a valued feature by all, whether you are out hunting or just trying to utilize every minute of range time. Being permitted to shoot at that hour doesn’t do you much good if you cannot clearly see your target. When it comes to hitting your target, the VX-5HD comes in a variety of reticles. The FireDot Duplex is a great choice for quick acquisition shooting on 3x while the Impact-29 reticle allows you to make hold adjustments at distance with ease. I really liked the Windplex reticle since when combined with the Custom Ballistic Dial allows you to dial for elevation and hold for windage as needed.

    opplanet-leupold-wind-plex-r1

    WindPlex Reticle

     

    The 30mm maintube means finding a great mount isn’t hard or overly expensive. Eye relief is 3.8 inches (at 3x) so finding proper placement shouldn’t be challenging. Weighing in at 19oz, the VX-5HD 3-15×44 CDS-ZL2 isn’t going to throw off the balance of your firearm. Here are some other hard stats:

    Linear FOV (ft/100 yd): 3x – 38.2                15x – 7.9

    Elevation Adjustment Range (MOA): 75

    Windage Adjustment Range (MOA): 75

    While this is my preferred model in the lineup, my second choice would be the VX5-HD 1-5×24 CDS-ZL2. Excellent choice for competitive shooters or hunters, the scope offers a robust package of clarity without the bulk. Regardless of your magnification choice, I highly recommend going with a CDS-ZL2 elevation turret. You will have a scope that can handle almost any scenario in any condition that you can count on for years to come.

    20171026_170900

     

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