Activity for BMitch‭

Type	On...	Excerpt	Status	Date
Answer	—	A: How to seam seal Tyvek? Builders typically get Tyvek in 9' rolls instead of 4' and 5' sheets. You may be able to buy a small piece off of the roll from your local building supply store or find some waste at a local construction site so that you don't have any seams to join. If you do need to join two sheets of Tyvek, Tyvek... (more)	—	over 11 years ago
Question	—	When should you be alert for snakes? Are there specific seasons or temperatures that increase the likelihood that a hiker would encounter a snake? I go backpacking solo in the mid-Atlantic (US) and carry a snakebite kit as an extra precaution. But I'm considering whether I can lighten the load by not carrying it when snakes are dormant.... (more)	—	over 11 years ago
Answer	—	A: Is it normal for a double skin popup tent to leak in slight rain? I'm not familiar with your specific tent, but you typically don't block ventilation in a double walled tent. The outer rain fly will collect condensation from your own breathing and the tent needs to breath to reduce it. You also need to seal the seams on a tent if the factory doesn't do it for you,... (more)	—	over 11 years ago
Answer	—	A: Are there boots made for a longer 2nd toe? I'm not aware of any boots for your specific need, but there may be some other options using a larger size boot. Preferably you should have little if any pressure from your toes against the front of your boot. For me, the solution to a loose boot has been to add a second insole which keeps a laced b... (more)	—	almost 12 years ago
Answer	—	A: What qualities should I look for in a good walking pole? Each person is unique and may need one feature over another. But here is my take on the features in a rough order of importance: Warranty: If you plan on heavy usage, make sure it has a lifetime warranty and a manufacturer that backs it up. Many will find a way to replace it in the field. Weight: I... (more)	—	almost 12 years ago
Answer	—	A: Group protocol should the group become separated The most important part is to agree on a strategy beforehand and to not continue forward when you're injured, lost, or disoriented. A typical strategy might be: Each hiker to go at their own pace to that day's destination. The first group there gets to setup camp so the slower hikers aren't trying ... (more)	—	almost 12 years ago
Answer	—	A: Best way to illuminate a tent? A trick I've seen recently is to strap your headlamp to a solid water bottle with the light pointed into the base of the bottle. Lay the bottle on the side and you have a substitute for a lantern. The plastic and some water act as a poor-man's diffuser. (more)	—	almost 12 years ago
Answer	—	A: How to choose a fire steel and use it most effectively? The pro of a fire steel over other lighters is that there's little that can break or be damaged from weather. Even if you lose the striker, a steel knife will work with the flint. However the con is that you only get a spark, not a steady flame. That means it needs to hit something that will ignite v... (more)	—	almost 12 years ago
Question	—	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 FreeSole work well to extend the life of boots when used preventively, both on the sole seam or the toe box? ... (more)	—	almost 12 years ago
Question	—	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 stability. However, I'm not a fan of soggy boots, so I tend to go barefoot, which adds to the risk of slippin... (more)	—	about 12 years ago