Activity for Sherwood Botsford‭

Type	On...	Excerpt	Status	Date
Answer	—	A: How can I secure the car key while surfing? Slightly diferent problem: Oh hiking trips I figure that the chance of losing the key in the back country is probably more serious than a key being found at/near the car. I have: Placed the key on top of the tire in a wheel well. Up the exhaust far enough to require a stick to reach it out. Insid... (more)	—	over 4 years ago
Answer	—	A: Topo map server out there somewhere? Semi-selfcontained desktop solution: Ozi-Explorer. https://www.oziexplorer4.com This program allows you to have a folder of maps images. You then can download a program called 'map merge' (same outfit) which can use the calibration to create a merged map. This is a bit kludgy. This program also... (more)	—	almost 5 years ago
Answer	—	A: What advantage does the what3words coordinate system have over other, traditional systems? It's a stupid system, even without looking at it. I don't see it as having any advantages. I don't take my phone with me in the back country. There's no reception. How do I find out the code I'm in. Like the phone system, it tries to avoid having neighbouring zones having similar coordinates (ar... (more)	—	almost 5 years ago
Answer	—	A: Would there be any practical uses of a geological map for a hiker/backpacker? For climbers it may be of use. Igneous or strongly metamorphic rocks are much preferred for climbing to sedimentary rocks. Knowing the rock outcroppings may make a difference in new country. If you combine your back country hobby with rock collecting, prospecting etc it would be quite useful. Som... (more)	—	almost 5 years ago
Answer	—	A: What is the best way to figure out the size/volume of an old pack? While water works and is precise, I strong suggest doing this outside or in the bathtub. A much easier way is to get a bag of packing peanuts, either by scrounging from your local receiving department, or buy a bag at a shipping supply company. You may even be able to borrow some from your shippi... (more)	—	almost 5 years ago
Question	—	Topo map server out there somewhere? It's winter. I daydream of trips in various areas. Using Google/Apple/Bing maps is frustrating. Openstreet has trails if you are near civilization, but names are weak. None of them have coordinate overlays (Lat/Long, UTM) The above is a screenshot of Open street map showing the SW corner of Cre... (more)	—	almost 5 years ago
Answer	—	A: How do you overcome a preventative fear of dangerous wildlife A lot of it is just by doing it. Both species are quite low density, and the number of wild animal deaths/injuries are very small. Regions that are dangerous for bears are those where they are very familiar with human presence and associate it with snacks, and very remote areas where they haven't s... (more)	—	almost 5 years ago
Answer	—	A: How can I reduce the pressure of backpack straps on my collarbone, perhaps by fixing padding to the strap? I think you need to find out why the plate hurts. If putting a load on the bone is putting tension/torque on the screws that attach the plate, then any form of loading on the bone may be a problem. You may want to talk to your doctor about ways to increase the bone density at the anchor points, or ... (more)	—	almost 5 years ago
Answer	—	A: How to explain unexpected success following a bearing taken from an iPad In the Canadian NTS series of maps at latitudes below about 60 the maximum difference between grid north and true north is just over 2 degrees. The grid is a 100,000 meter grid: blocks 100 km x 100 km. The grids are square, but the earth isn't. Square grids simplify the calculations for artillery... (more)	—	almost 5 years ago
Answer	—	A: Is it possible to apply DWR to heavy cotton fleece hooded sweatshirt for water resistance? I suspect that sweatshirt fabric has too open a mesh for any waterproofing agent to be effective. Rather than risk a garment you love, buy as close to a similar weight sweatshirt at a thift store, and do your initial experiments with that. I have used linseed oil to add water resistance to canvas g... (more)	—	almost 5 years ago
Answer	—	A: Why do snowshoes have a hole in the front deck? Because your foot doesn't pivot at the toe, but under the ball of the foot. Since the pivot is at that point, the front of the foot goes thorough the hole. This helps to anchor the snowshoe going forward, and also allows you to use your toes when climbing a slope too steep for the snowshoes to grip.... (more)	—	almost 5 years ago
Answer	—	A: Are square or rectangular tarp shapes more versatile? I have tarped for most of my outdoor experience. One year on a bet (be careful what you say at the pub...) I spend a full year under a tarp in the bush near my home. Right now I have a silicone coated 9x12 ripstop nylon tarp. Marketed as 'aquatarp' on Amazon. But for a small weight penalty, the co... (more)	—	almost 5 years ago
Question	—	Are kernmantle ropes more susceptible to damage than 3 ply twist or solid braid? A comment on recent answer suggests that kernmantle ropes are more easily damaged than a conventional twisted rope. This is contrary to what I learned very long ago. So far I've been unable to find a general reference on how different ropes need to be handled, and what tools can be used with each.... (more)	—	almost 5 years ago
Answer	—	A: Looking for information about the large circles free of snow that form in the spring around the trunks of large trees? Much of it is due to conifers -- especially spruce and fir shedding snow away from the trunk. I routinely see trees with 1/3 of the snow under their branches as in the open. A spruce in winter appears nearly black. Sunlight enters, and bounces around a lot before escaping. Most is absorbed during... (more)	—	almost 5 years ago
Answer	—	A: Winter boots for -40°C that are snowshoe and crampon compatible? The advice on Kamik etc is good. A: I buy them 2 sizes larger than my normal size. This allows me to wear 2 thick pairs of socks inside the already thick felt liners. B: Verify that you can remove/insert the liners. Some are really hard to get in and out. C: Untie the laces, and tie a single... (more)	—	almost 5 years ago
Answer	—	A: Why isn't carrying a satellite phone considered best practice for hiking/mountaineering in remote regions? OP has qualified his question to be specific for mountaineering, and has clarified to mean 'best practice' instead of 'required by law or guild' In mountains many mishaps are close to instant, or are weather related. A communication device may just mean that people get the unpleasant news sooner. ... (more)	—	almost 5 years ago
Answer	—	A: How to make it easier to untie a figure-8 knot after finishing a climb? This is what a marlin spike is for. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Marlinspike It's not special purpose just for figure 8 knots, but is a general tool for tight knots. Dates back to the age of sail, when natural cordage would get pulled tight then got wet and would swell. (more)	—	almost 5 years ago
Answer	—	A: In case of a tsunami, would swimming out to sea be an escape strategy? There are some good videos of the tsunami that hit Thailand some years ago. Thing to remember is that the waves are MILES long. The water rises and keeps rising. I read recently of a similar question regarding boats. I think the recommended distance to get off shore was 15 miles. And from the ti... (more)	—	almost 5 years ago
Answer	—	A: Male swimming attire that can be worn under clothing Mesh lined running shorts. Roughly equivalent to boxers in coverage. I routinely use these on canoe trips and hiking trips under my wind pants. Morning starts with longs, and as the day warms up, they come off as the day warms up. I often put longs back on immediately on hitting camp for bug prot... (more)	—	almost 5 years ago
Answer	—	A: Waterproof mittens for cycling and snow-fun: leather or synthetic? For extended outing using an antipersperant on your hands helps. Overmitts plus fleece liners is my goto. I have a pair of leather cowhide overmits that I use when working -- leather takes the abuse of moving firewood. I ahve a nylon pair with duraflex (breathable coating applied directly to fabri... (more)	—	almost 5 years ago
Answer	—	A: Which Ultralight & Compact Jackets are suitable for Winters (minus 10-15 deg. Celsius)? Wind blocking is important in cold weather. A very small breeze on skin whisks away your warm air. On the flip side, keeping a thin layer of air stationary next to you works very well. I have an old sierra designs 3 layer gore-tex wind parka that over the years has lost its water repellancy. I still... (more)	—	about 5 years ago
Answer	—	A: If I kill a deer how long can the body last before preserving? Can't speak to deer. I've kept fish on canoe trips from noon one day to breakfast the next morning without a problem. I've also steamed fish, and carried the cooked fish for 36 hours without a problem. These were on trips with temperures in the mid teens (C) overnight to low 20's during the day. (more)	—	about 5 years ago
Answer	—	A: How to waterproof leather gloves & mittens? There's a tradeoff: Sealed leather doesn't let water in, but doesn't let water vapour out either. This results in liners getting soaked sooner. You can reduce this somewhat: Apply your choice of goop to the inside face only, but include the web between thumb and palm. If you do gloves, do about h... (more)	—	about 5 years ago
Answer	—	A: Can I get away with less advanced food storing methods if backpacking in areas where meeting bears is unlikely? Much depends on the region you are going to. Check with the local wildlife conservation authorities, park personnel. Jasper Park provides bear proof storage at all their sites, I think. Willmore wilderness provides nothing. Outfitter camps may or may not have a high bar for hanging food(or game) ... (more)	—	about 5 years ago
Answer	—	A: Are snow shoes useful in mountaineering? In alpine conditions generally skis will work better. Below timberline skis work on broad trails. Narrow twisty trail and bushwhacking is easier with snowshoes. Snowshoes on a steep crusted side hill are double plus ungood. Snowshoeing solo is a lot of work breaking trail. The second person is s... (more)	—	about 5 years ago
Answer	—	A: Where can I get little durable cases you can hang on your climbing harness? One possibility: Check out the home improvement store. Check the tool section. You can get all sorts of attachments for tool belts, including ones to carry things like a cell phone. They aren't rigid. If rock climbing I'd use this and something like an Otter Case to protect the phone itself. Th... (more)	—	about 5 years ago
Answer	—	A: Group protocol should the group become separated Case study: Persimmon Pass. We were running a group with 20 kids and 4 adults in Willmore Wilderness in September. The nature of the trails in Willmore: At low elevations they are the remains of what used to be logging roads. Up to timberline, trails are traveled mostly by horse outfitters, and ... (more)	—	about 5 years ago
Answer	—	A: How to improvise or make pot grip / pot handle I use tin cans as pots. I put a nail hole in opposite sizes just under the rim and string a chunk of bailing wire about 1.5 can diameters. Twist at each end. Most cans now have a thin liner of plastic -- essentially a layer of varnish. While nominally food grade, when it burns it becomes uncertain... (more)	—	about 5 years ago
Answer	—	A: Boots or trail runners with reference to blisters? Prevention is important: Wear the shoes with trip socks for a few weeks before the trip. The shorter distances involved in day to day living will get your feet accustomed to your shoes. There are compounds sold that will toughen skin. Rubbing alcohol is one. Salt water is one. Running shoe stor... (more)	—	over 5 years ago
Answer	—	A: How do people drown while wearing a life jacket? PFDs come in various flavours: The best ones have sufficient floatation around the neck, and enough more flotation on the front compared to the back, than an unconscious victim is naturally rotated onto his back with is face out of the water. The classic design is the "Key hole" design. This is wh... (more)	—	over 5 years ago
Answer	—	A: How to remove butter stain from raincoat? Ok. If you aren't going to wear it dirty, then risking its waterproofing doesn't matter. Things to try: First one sounds crazy: You have a stain. Stain the rest of the poncho to match. You can be fully authentic and use butter, or you can use something with less smell to it, like vaseline. R... (more)	—	over 5 years ago
Answer	—	A: How should a backpack be carried to keep from injuring the spine? The tips in the Keijzers' answer are valid. Some additional comments: Overall the purpose of loading your pack with weight high/close is to reduce the lean you need to compensate for the change in your centre of mass. In the bad old days you could get packs with a frame that you could extend upw... (more)	—	over 5 years ago
Answer	—	A: How do you properly dispose of human waste while snow camping? Some times local disposal isn't unreasonable. Here's my thinking: Animals crap in the woods. Assuming wilderness use, the crap load from people is small compared to that of animals. (Animals use trails too. Good chance that your trail is used by more animals than people in winter.) This situati... (more)	—	over 5 years ago
Answer	—	A: Impact of throwing away fruit waste on a peak > 3200 m above a glacier My viewpoint: If it is unlikely to be seen before natural processes take care of it then disposal in the wilderness isn't unreasonable. Thus, below timberline, outside Jasper National Park, walking 10 feet off the trail to bury my orange peel is reasonable. At high elevation the decomp times are... (more)	—	over 5 years ago
Answer	—	A: Filtering fine silt/mud from water (not necessarily bacteria etc.) In mountain terrain, the fine particles are likely rock flour -- and they are really small If the water has a blueish cast, they are on the order of the wavelength of blue light -- about 400 nano meters, or 0.4 microns. This is on the order of the smaller end of the range for most bacteria. (.5 to ... (more)	—	over 5 years ago
Answer	—	A: Does an outboard motor impeller go bad if it isn't exercised regularly? Edit your question, then I will edit this answer: What is the symptom of not working? A: The motor won't start. Check fuel Check that the spark plug works. After this it's pretty much 'my two stroke engine won't run' B: The motor starts but runs really rough and develops no power. Dirty gas... (more)	—	over 5 years ago
Answer	—	A: How much time/distance on average does it take take to break in hiking boots? As a boy, I bought Raikle boots from REI. I wore them daily to school, and on my paper route. A new pair would take about 3-4 weeks to break in. One way I read about in a hiking book was to take a long warm bath with your boots on, then wear them until they dried, walking half the time. The bre... (more)	—	over 5 years ago
Answer	—	A: Can I make a safe climbing-anchor with a 2-ton working-load sling that was meant for lifting vehicles? I am not a climber. These should work in the sense that they are unlikely to fail. But be sure you understand both the original purpose and the history of the sling: A: Some emergency stuff -- tow straps come to mind -- aren't designed for long term use. B: Some gear is not well stabilized for ... (more)	—	over 5 years ago
Answer	—	A: What's the difference between the Norwegian fjord and the Scottish sea loch? Geologically significantly different. Fjords are flooded glacial valleys, and usually have very steep sides. Often the fjord itself is deeper than the ocean beyond it's mouth. Many have very inaccessible shorelines except at the extreme ends. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fjord Loch is used both ... (more)	—	over 5 years ago
Answer	—	A: What's an easy way to fasten/unfasten to bind two horizontal poles? How about repurposing an old belt. Add a few more holes to it. (more)	—	over 5 years ago
Answer	—	A: What's an easy way to fasten/unfasten to bind two horizontal poles? Charles answer is the correct one for speed. The traditional answer is a sheer lashing. 3 loose turns around the pair (or trio) of poles, then pass between the poles twice, pull tight and tie off. I wouldn't want to hold my breath while undoing this on a dark rainy night. The image above has more... (more)	—	over 5 years ago
Answer	—	A: Why aren't (poly-)cotton tents more popular? Biggest reason is weight. Horse packers still use canvas wall tents. Almost indestructible if you don't store them wet. But a 9x12 wall tent can weigh over a hundred pounds, and much more if wet. These same packers have the weight allowance to pack cast iron cookware and sheet metal stoves with c... (more)	—	over 5 years ago
Answer	—	A: Is leather superseded as footwear material? My work boots are leather with plastic toe protectors (Thank heavens steel is no longer used. Heavy and cold...) I hike in low top Merrells, including boulder fields and scree. The Merrells are largely synthetic, and weigh a third of what my work boots do. In a typical work day I cover about 6-10... (more)	—	over 5 years ago
Answer	—	A: What is this white, ribbed, box shaped object attached to a somewhat-remote tree near Lake Chelan? Possibilities: Some form of remote sensor, Perhaps they wanted to monitor microclimate values of temp and humidity on a long term basis. Bug trap. The container fastens with wingnuts, while the bracket appears to be screwed or nailed. By implication the container was intended to be replaced/insp... (more)	—	over 5 years ago
Answer	—	A: Is there any reason to avoid sunglasses with blue lenses? Blue may be somewhat more likely to let UV through if they are poor quality. Most sunglasses now carry some form of label regarding UV blocking. In photography, you often use an orange or red filter to increase the effective contrast between sky and cloud, or rock and vegetation. These filters als... (more)	—	over 5 years ago
Answer	—	A: Is there an easy way to remember if you add magnetic declination to magnetic bearings or true bearings? Canadian topo maps have a diagram with grid north, true north and mag north marked on it. Due to the drifting north pole, I will look up what it is this week online, and pencil it in. Grid north doesn't change. I think it out like this. Suppose mag north is 10 degrees east of true north. Countin... (more)	—	over 5 years ago
Answer	—	A: Birds not eating Nyjer (thistle seed)? We have several feeders. Chickadees will eat nyger until the sunflower feeder is empty. Gold finch and purple finch seem to prefer the nyger seed. So far the only bird that eats millet seed (found in cheap mixes) are juncos and then only after it's been on the ground for a week or so. By far the ... (more)	—	over 5 years ago
Answer	—	A: Hot coffee brewing solutions for deep woods camping I make camp coffee as follows: I use large tin cans as pots. They can be gotten at any restaurant, cafeteria and hold about 3 quarts. It's quick work to add a wire bail to them. Morning coffee for two: Put about 4 mugs of water into the pot. Sprinkle about 6 tablespoons of coffee grounds on t... (more)	—	over 5 years ago
Answer	—	A: Require advice on power conservation for backpacking trip I run into similar problems on canoe trips. My camera is a through-the-lens viewfinder, not an electric screen. Doing an entire canoe trip (3 weeks) and taking 500 frames is easy. In addition, for the Nikon you can get a cute carrier that allows you to use 3 CR123 lithium batteries instead of t... (more)	—	over 5 years ago
Answer	—	A: Surviving a forest fire by starting another fire A vivid description of this is described in "Young Men & Fire" https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/YoungMenandFire Early 50's Forest service is developing smoke jumpers. At the time teams didn't train together as a team. They drop into the Mann Gulch fire, above it. Their plan was to come down the... (more)	—	over 5 years ago

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