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Q&A

General Q&A about the great outdoors and outdoor pursuits.

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What's the best way to use up (and dispose of) almost-empty butane canisters?

I take a Primus EtaExpress stove with me when camping, and am slowing accumulating a collection of canisters with only around ~20% gas in them. With this little gas, they don't have enough pressur...

2 answers  ·  posted 12y ago by Roddy‭  ·  last activity 8y ago by System‭

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How often should I wax skis?

I have a pair of skis, let's pretend I use them as much as I want to. How often should I wax them? Once a season? Every few ski days? Before or after every ski day? Both? Does it matter what kind o...

4 answers  ·  posted 12y ago by Kevin‭  ·  last activity 8y ago by System‭

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Making own Hammock

I have been looking but unable to find a good video or step by step with photos to make my own Hammock. I have a ton of paracord lying around and plan on using that, but I'd really like a guide and...

1 answer  ·  posted 12y ago by MaskedPlant‭  ·  last activity 12y ago by System‭

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Are Trangia and MSR fuel bottles inter changeable?

In other words, could I purchase a 1 litre Trangia fuel bottle and the MSR Dragonfly liquid-fuel camp stove and use them together? Or would the smaller, slightly more expensive MSR fuel bottle be t...

4 answers  ·  posted 12y ago by ajmccall‭  ·  last activity 10y ago by System‭

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Is a varied diet necessary while backpacking?

Often when planning food for a backpacking trip, I rely heavily on a very large amount of extremely varied trail-mix, and only throw in some jerky and a scant few "cookable" meals for variety. I ha...

5 answers  ·  posted 12y ago by J.T. Hurley‭  ·  last activity 8y ago by System‭

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How do I use these "guy line runners" to adjust the tension on my tent's lines?

I was given my current tent and I have to admit to being pretty ignorant of tents, having not done much camping since I was a kid some decades ago. Now when it came time to use the guy ropes I not...

4 answers  ·  posted 11y ago by hippietrail‭  ·  last activity 6y ago by System‭

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Am I likely to need multiple pairs of boots on the Appalachian Trail?

Reading up on a hiking boot size question, I came across this review from Silver Spring, Maryland for a wide hiking boot. This boot has a "lifespan" of 400 miles. Is that typical of a hiking boot...

1 answer  ·  posted 12y ago by Clare Steen‭  ·  last activity 9y ago by System‭

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Navigational gear worldwide

Is there any difference in navigational equipment between the northern and southern hemisphere? We live in the northern hemisphere but will be emigrating to the southern in the next few weeks. We'l...

3 answers  ·  posted 12y ago by Sirex‭  ·  last activity 6y ago by System‭

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Keeping warm in an emergency

When roaming the outdoors, it might happen that one finds oneself in a situation that is much, much colder than one planned for. What can one do in such an emergency, especially when it's so col...

5 answers  ·  posted 12y ago by Pekka‭  ·  last activity 10y ago by System‭

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Wild camping in subsaharan Africa - madness, blasphemy, or bearable?

What potential dangers / precautions one should take into account when sleeping outside in sub-Saharan Africa? (Let alone countries with unstable political situations.) Just with a sleeping bag, ma...

3 answers  ·  posted 12y ago by Tomas‭  ·  last activity 9y ago by System‭

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Is there a kayak / paddleboard for large people?

I am a very large man - I am 6'4" and weigh 450 pounds (I've lost a 100 pounds in the last year). I bike or walk everyday, (and swim laps occasionally) but want to add another sport to my exercise...

5 answers  ·  posted 12y ago by MDV2000‭  ·  last activity 4y ago by System‭

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Looking for a Topographical map resource?

Does anyone know of a good way to find topographical maps for either download or purchase?

8 answers  ·  posted 12y ago by mjrider‭  ·  last activity 6y ago by System‭

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Replacement tap for Coleman 5 gal. water carrier

We have couple Coleman 5 gal. water carriers. They are nice sturdy canisters, but they have major weak spot: their taps are of poor quality and easily broken — both ours are, and seems like a lot o...

5 answers  ·  posted 11y ago by theUg‭  ·  last activity 4y ago by System‭

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How to choose a safe cliff path

When walking alongside eroding cliffs in more built up / touristy areas, there's usually big warning signs or closed paths if the cliff is unsafe to walk on. Sometimes it's obvious why, if the path...

1 answer  ·  posted 11y ago by berry120‭  ·  last activity 10y ago by System‭

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How should I wash Ventile clothing?

My Ventile jacket is getting a bit dirty. Is there anything special I need to know when washing it, or will a regular washing liquid and low temperature do?

1 answer  ·  posted 12y ago by zoul‭  ·  last activity 12y ago by System‭

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What's the UPF of a T-Shirt or jeans?

Many outdoor clothing items advertise themselves with a UPF (Ultraviolet protection factor) of 30 or even 50. How does that compare with a normal cotton T-Shirt or a pair of jeans? Do I have to use...

1 answer  ·  posted 12y ago by Peter Hahndorf‭  ·  last activity 4y ago by System‭

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Is it legal to light bonfires on UK beaches?

Assuming a lack of signage indicating the legalities, is it legal to light a bonfire on a beach in the UK? I haven't been able to find an authoritative source on this either way, hence the question...

3 answers  ·  posted 12y ago by berry120‭  ·  last activity 7y ago by System‭

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How can I prevent plantar fasciitis?

Every year or so I'll end up with plantar fasciitis after periods of time where I've walked a lot. In general my walking shoes are fine and have arch support but occasionally I'll need to use sturd...

3 answers  ·  posted 12y ago by John Doyle‭  ·  last activity 7y ago by System‭

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Dealing with very cold climate (clothing)

In the near future I will have to prepare myself for a Siberia expedition. During the winter, average temperatures in Siberia range from -10°F (-23°C) to below -50°C (-45°F).1 What should I...

4 answers  ·  posted 12y ago by syntagma‭  ·  last activity 6y ago by System‭

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How do I tie a double fisherman's knot?

In climbing, a double fisherman's knot is used to tie together two separate pieces of rope. How would I tie such a knot?

3 answers  ·  posted 12y ago by Reverend Gonzo‭  ·  last activity 7y ago by System‭

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For a DIY wood burning stove, is there a significant advantage of the double wall "bushbuddy" style?

I made myself a simple wood burning stove from a small tomato can, and I am pretty happy with it, but now I am wondering if I would get significantly increased performance by making a more complica...

1 answer  ·  posted 12y ago by Jan Hlavacek‭  ·  last activity 12y ago by System‭

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Plastic or fiberglass for a kayak?

I'm an intermediate level kayaker but have only paddled plastic boats. I'm looking for a kayak to do multi-day trips in on the ocean. What are the differences between plastic and fiberglass?

1 answer  ·  posted 12y ago by Ross‭  ·  last activity 6y ago by System‭

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6 day trek in Nepal Himalaya

What are some easy/moderate hikes in the Nepal Himalayas that do not span more than 6 days of walking? I looked at Jomsom trek but it is 8 days. I am looking for a trek that offers nice scenic beau...

3 answers  ·  posted 12y ago by Victor123‭  ·  last activity 1y ago by Mithical‭

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How can I tell when pemmican has spoiled?

Following this video I have made pemmican. When making the pemmican I used a food processor instead of rocks (because I'm lazy). I handled it with care, and according to this handbook, this stuff...

1 answer  ·  posted 12y ago by Russell Steen‭  ·  last activity 12y ago by System‭

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Does drinking alcohol cause problems at altitude?

If I'm going to be climbing a mountain, would drinking a small amount at altitude have any negative effects (besides general alcohol effects)?

3 answers  ·  posted 12y ago by Reverend Gonzo‭  ·  last activity 6y ago by System‭

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Things to keep away from climbing ropes

There are some no brainers like don't throw your climbing rope next to car batteries in the back of your car. The effect of bug sprays containing Deet seem to be controversial. I have also heard a ...

4 answers  ·  posted 12y ago by DJBunk‭  ·  last activity 4y ago by System‭

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What can I do to help relieve joint pain in fingers after climbing?

After I've been climbing for a while, my finger joints are very sore. Is there anything I can do to relieve that pain?

7 answers  ·  posted 12y ago by Reverend Gonzo‭  ·  last activity 5y ago by System‭

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How to deal with condensation in a tent?

I often camp in rainy or very humid weather, and I often have condensation forming inside my tent. What can I do to minimize this? My tent has vents, but I’m not sure how to make the best use of ...

12 answers  ·  posted 12y ago by Big General‭  ·  last activity 5y ago by System‭

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How do you prevent mold in CamelBak hydration bladders?

When using a CamelBak (or other hydration bladder system), it is easy for mold to grow if the bladder is left sitting with water in it. What is the best way to avoid mold (or other nasties) growing...

9 answers  ·  posted 12y ago by jrdioko‭  ·  last activity 6y ago by System‭

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What is the best way to break up a fight among dogs on a sled line?

Fights happen. Sled dogs have personalities that aren't always compatible... Is there a technique to breaking up a fight that will minimize risk of injury to both me and my dogs?

2 answers  ·  posted 12y ago by Lost‭  ·  last activity 12y ago by System‭

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Places for canyoning in England / Wales

I've always liked the idea of canyoning, but it seems that there's few places where it can be done in England. Does anyone know of any such places?

3 answers  ·  posted 12y ago by berry120‭  ·  last activity 10y ago by System‭

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How do I choose a good quality carabiner?

If I was looking to purchase some carabiners, what sort of things should I look out for to ensure they're good quality? I'm not planning on using them for climbing, more in the way of general use ...

1 answer  ·  posted 12y ago by berry120‭  ·  last activity 6y ago by System‭

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How do I extend the life of waterproof leather boots?

I've got some leather boots that are showing some wear and tear. More importantly, the seam between the sole and boot is starting to crack and allow some water in. Do products like ShoeGoo or FreeS...

1 answer  ·  posted 12y ago by BMitch‭  ·  last activity 8y ago by System‭

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How should you wash clothes after exposure to poison oak/ivy/sumac?

I have heard that the oils from poison oak, poison ivy, or poison sumac can remain on clothes even through a wash cycle. After hiking through an area with poison ivy (or poison oak/poison sumac), h...

2 answers  ·  posted 12y ago by jrdioko‭  ·  last activity 6y ago by System‭

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Best/safest wood to carve a spoon from?

Say I want to carve a spoon from wood that I find, are there any trees I shouldn't use due to their toxicity? Are any that are particularly easy to carve or hardy?

2 answers  ·  posted 12y ago by Pureferret‭  ·  last activity 6y ago by System‭

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How do you determine worm color for Large Mouth Bass

When I was growing up and fishing for Large Mouth Bass with my grandfather we primarily used plastic worms. Color and style matters a lot, and different worms had significantly different results. ...

4 answers  ·  posted 12y ago by Russell Steen‭  ·  last activity 6y ago by System‭

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Cam Sling Modification

How do you modify Cam slings with a straw as described here for easier removal?

2 answers  ·  posted 12y ago by Russell Steen‭  ·  last activity 8y ago by System‭

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What should I look for when buying a Lensatic Compass

Lensatic Compasses seem to be priced from $5 to $100 USD. What features should I look for when buying one?

1 answer  ·  posted 12y ago by wyocalboy‭  ·  last activity 6y ago by System‭

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How is "pack weight" measured

In ultralight or lightweight hiking, "pack weight" is a very common number to discuss. What does pack weight exclude? Is it limited to just what's in your pack, or does it also include clothes, s...

2 answers  ·  posted 12y ago by Russell Steen‭  ·  last activity 12y ago by System‭

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What to look out for when buying used backpacks

I'm looking to buy a used backpack in the near future. What are the key things I should look out for/avoid when inspecting used paks?

2 answers  ·  posted 11y ago by Colin Akins‭  ·  last activity 11y ago by System‭

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What is the best way to cross streams while backpacking?

I'm curious of a good technique to cross a stream while backpacking that's above the boot's waterproof line but no higher than the knees. I typically face upstream and use my hiking poles for stabi...

9 answers  ·  posted 12y ago by BMitch‭  ·  last activity 6y ago by System‭

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Do I need to break in double plastic mountaineering boots?

I just bought my first pair of mountaineering boots. I know hiking boots need to be properly broken in before taking them on the trail, but what about plastic mountaineering boots? These are extre...

2 answers  ·  posted 12y ago by Reverend Gonzo‭  ·  last activity 10y ago by System‭

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Is there simple guidance on sunburn risk associated with altitude?

When skiing, if the weather is good, I often come back with a better tan than if I have been at the beach. Obviously with altitude, there is less blocking of UV rays by the atmosphere. But how muc...

1 answer  ·  posted 11y ago by roryalsop‭  ·  last activity 6y ago by System‭

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Are there any low sodium freeze dried meals?

For health reasons, I usually try to keep my sodium intake fairly low. However, most freeze dried dinners offered in camping stores contain an more sodium than I'm looking for. I consider 800mg a s...

5 answers  ·  posted 12y ago by jeffreywrichards‭  ·  last activity 7y ago by System‭

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What would be a safe ascent rate when mountaineering?

I'm training to climb large mountains. What kind of ascent should I train for at altitude. Let's say above 12000 feet and carrying up to 60 lbs?

1 answer  ·  posted 12y ago by Reverend Gonzo‭  ·  last activity 6y ago by System‭

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What's the difference between white gas, propane, kerosene, and gasoline?

How do I know what type I should use when I'm planning a camping trip?

4 answers  ·  posted 12y ago by Reverend Gonzo‭  ·  last activity 5y ago by System‭

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Are Ice grips worth buying?

The cold weather has finally hit the UK and once again I am tempted to buy something like Yaktrax Pro Ice Grips. For those of you not in the UK we get some snow each year (enough to make everythin...

7 answers  ·  posted 12y ago by Phil‭  ·  last activity 5y ago by System‭

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What should be carried in a standard Geocaching bag?

As in the title, when going Geocaching what are some standard implements and tools I should carry with me to get started so I'm not caught out?

3 answers  ·  posted 11y ago by berry120‭  ·  last activity 11y ago by System‭

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How should I patch holes in a waterproof/breathable jacket?

I have a waterproof/breathable rain jacket which has a few holes in it (caused by a minor bicycle crash, in case that information is relevant). They are not too big, about 5mm across. How can I pa...

2 answers  ·  posted 12y ago by Big General‭  ·  last activity 6y ago by System‭

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How do you safely cut wood with a knife?

Several people have talked about having single edge knife so that you can cut down small trees. What is the proper way to cut or carve wood with a knife?

3 answers  ·  posted 12y ago by Russell Steen‭  ·  last activity 5y ago by System‭