As a happy gear nerd I enjoy writing camping gear reviews once in awhile, especially when that gear stands the test of time. When I write about gear it’s usually stuff I have used for at least a year or two, and often a decade or more. I turn down most of the requests I receive to review camping gear. Most of what is offered does more to weigh your pack down than significantly improve your camping experience. New iterations are, at best, incremental improvements and game-changing innovations are rare.
Here’s three items I’ll be writing about soon;
Helinox Chair
I spotted these in an article about canoeing a year or two ago. They are really quite something, very light, sturdy and comfortable, pack down to the size of a loaf of bread. Helinox and Big Agnes were the original brands but there are lots of cheaper copycat designs out there now. (Some time I need to write about copycat designs)
Laplander Saw and Mora Knife
Two no-nonsense tools at a reasonable price from a highly reputable manufacturer.
Kelly Kettle
Over the past few years the web has rediscovered this century-old innovation, there are plenty of reviews out there. I am fond of woodburning stoves (see my reviews of the littlbug, Solo and Stove Tech).
I’ll be working on written reviews and videos of these items and more this fall.
My past reviews and gear notes are here
Here are my wish lists –
The Morakniv knives are a great find. The carbon steel blades are a little better than the stainless ones, but it is more of a personal choice.
I have a few of these for the adults to practice on when I teach outdoor leader skills. Much better than having them practice on my knife.
The Morakniv Craftline Basic 511 is probably the most knife you can get for $10. Great choice for a first fixed blade knife.
For $12, the Morakniv Companion is just a little bigger and also available in stainless and in don’t-lose-me orange ($15).
If you want to practice bushcraft techniques, the Morakniv Companion HD has a thicker blade and is just over $15.
Thanks Walter – now I have to buy a few more Moras!