357 Magnum Ammo from Ammo To Go Review

The good people at Ammo To Go sent us some samples to try out and review for them.  They sent a battle pack of PMC .223 and four Federal Premium Low Recoil 357 Magnum Personal Defense (20 ct). Links are provided at the bottom of the page for your convenience.

DELIVERY:

In preparation for our review, I ordered a Plano case of 9mm before they had my contact information. This way I could get a raw assessment of their shipping and packaging department. I did opt for the additional discrete packaging for an additional 79 cents, and was impressed with the way the package concealed it's true contents. The Plano case of 9mm  was professionally packaged and delivery in great condition (just like you'd expect).

The package for review did have a cracked case on one of the boxes of the 357 magnum, but the cracked case didn't affect the ammunition in the slightest. Just rough handling on the Brown Truck. I might suggest some bubble wrap, or positioning the bottom of the box towards the outside of the box, but otherwise a flawless delivery. They also provided email updates on the status of your order and this does include a link to the shipping provider for estimated delivery date and time. For standard delivery, it took two days for both packages to arrive at my doorstop.

The Range Trip:

We were only able to review the 357 Magnum during this trip, since baby sitters only aligned with pistol cartridge day at our favorite range, Arkansas Armory. Hey! We get to go shooting again, and that makes us happy. We just might bring our two oldest boys. 

We brought several different kinds of 357 Magnum and 38 Special to compare with the Federal Premium Low Recoil 357 Magnum Personal Defense rounds. Our Smith and Wesson Pro Series Model 60 is our standard concealed carry, and these Hydra-Shok rounds are meant to be carried.

We started with standard Gold Dot 357 Magnum rounds, then switched to a 38 Special cartridge. We each ran a couple of wheels down range to get a good baseline for our comparisons, then switched to the Low Recoil test ammunition. We were hoping that the recoil from the 357 Magnum would be on par with the 38 special rounds, but were disappointed. The recoil from our Smith and Wesson (Weight: 21.4 oz / 606.7g) was more than we were expecting and perhaps a heavy revolver would help subdue, or dampen the recoil to within comfortable levels. On the flip side, you want stopping power, and these Federal Premium Low Recoil Personal Defense rounds are the bullets that you want in your gun when it's needed. The lower recoil does help get back on target a little quicker, but I'm positive that one hit and your target will be out of the fight. 

Final Thoughts:

These rounds are for things that go bump in the night. Stopping power, flawless, and the ability to get back on target for empty cylinders. 

Additional Notes:

California is trying to pass legislation to require permits for ammunition purchases to the tune of $50 for a four year permit, a background check, and a 30 day waiting period.

This election has the possibility of having another anti-gun President, so stock up on your ammo needs.

A special thanks to Maggie H. at Ammo To Go for being so gracious and allowing us to review their products. We look forward to shooting the .223 in our local national forest for another review.

LINKS:

Ammo To Go

PMC FMJ Battle Pack .223 (200 ct)

357 Federal Hydra-Shok HP Ammo - Low Recoil (20ct)

Plano Case of Blazer Brass 9mm (350ct) 

Smith and Wesson Model 60 Pro Series 357 Magnum review

Arkansas Armory 

California Infringement on Personal Defense - Ammo Legislation

Fleeced - Gear Opinion

There are two kinds of fleece jackets: full zipper and half zipper.

While the half zipper is cheaper, the full zipper is preferred. The fleece layer is to trap warm air around the body to keep it warm. It is not a wind-proof layer, that is the job of the outer shell. I digress, the full zipper can control the temperature of the body better. My biggest gripe about the half zipper fleece is that it exposes my skin when it's time to remove the fleece jacket.

My ideal fleece jacket is reasonably priced, YKK zippered, hooded, and a dark natural color. I used to be brand loyal [Patagonia], but sometimes the frugality factor isn't there.

Keep Right On Prepping - K

Home Flashlight Review

I've been quite busy this week with school, but I've managed to squeeze this quick review in for a rechargeable flashlight for home use. More detailed posts will follow when time allows.

I highly recommend the Energizer Rechargeable LED flashlight. The flashlight cost us $8.88 at China-mart and has been a storm preparation item that can be bought, and forgotten about until needed. Who doesn't love low maintenance?

When the weather ready flashlight is plugged into the outlet, and the setting is set to "on", if the power is interrupted then the flashlight automatically lights up. We have had ours for over three years, and are still very satisfied with our flashlights. With a few of these around the house, you won't be left in the dark when the power goes out.

I would buy one for the living room, bathroom, and bedroom for maximum convenience. If you are a light sleeper, one could be placed in the bedroom to alert you to a power failure. Another useful tip would be to place the flashlight into the power strip or outlet from your generator, so that when it runs out of gas, you will instantly have light to find your personal flashlight.

We could also use two more for our house for the boy's bedrooms, but making sure that they stayed plugged in might be a problem! What boys don't like to play with flashlights?

What are you light plans when the power goes out?

Keep Right On Prepping - K

This is available through My Amazon store for $7.99 each and an Amazon Prime item, so free shipping applies if you are a member. Note: If you have an .edu email address, then you can get a free trial membership. I've had my free trial membership for over a year now!

Tru Spec Boot Review

A good pair of boots are a good investment.  I found these at our local military surplus store for $49.99, and the price was right for a review. Plus, I needed a new pair of boots for the yard. I've owned these boots for over 6 months, so they have had a good break-in period and many miles put on them. I've backpacked, done yard work, urban hiked (more later), and used these boots for everyday wear since their purchase.

My past boot purchases have been Vasque, Asolo, and other less known brands. This leaves me with a very good range of previous boots for comparison. I've also been walking at a very early age, so I have lots of experience. My feet are average with no special considerations for shoes.

Over the course of six months, I've kept a personal journal of my thoughts for the boots, so my comments have no particular order or priority.

*The boots make an ideal boot for river crossings. The time needed to unzip, wade across, and put them back on are about half the time of other boots without zippers. The downside to the zipper, is that it is not as waterproof as some of the boots I've owned in the past. A good hiking boot will let you step into water up to the top of the boot without soaking your feet. While a quick splash through will leave your feet dry, I wouldn't try it on an extended wade.

*They do not have a metal shank built into the boot. A shank is either a metal, or more currently plastic piece that provides a buffer between pointy rocks and the soles of your feet. Anything over the size of road gravel is going to be felt on your feet.

*The cost was at a good price point. Most boots made for backpacking are priced around $200.

*We did a six to eight mile walking tour of Washington DC this spring. Around six miles, the boots and feet were starting to feel the day's walk. Your mileage may vary. Six miles is about the upper limits for a certain four and six year old too. Overall, the boots had a good solid feel in the urban terrain.

*The soles are very hard and durable and still show very little wear. At this current wear, the upper portions of the boots will fail before the soles. FYI- When the soles are wet and you're in the school hallways, there is zero percent chance of sneaking up on someone.

 *These boots have already lasted longer than most tennis shoes, and they have a cheaper cost. A win for the frugal side.

*The zippers are YKK brand. I always look for this type of zipper on any outdoor products. I haven't had any problems with this type of zipper - ever.

*This is the first time I've owned a pair of zippered boots. I really like them.

*Wearing thick hiking makes it soooo much nicer. Smartwool rocks.

*While these are not a true backpacking boots, it is a good mid-entry boot for light hiking. I would not recommend it for an extremely rocky area, but it could be used in sylvan locations.

*I usually wear a 10 or 10.5 shoe size, so buy locally and not over the internet.

*The stitching on the toes are starting to show some wear (See photo below).

*The sole has a good gripping surface, but not for algae covered rocks. Keep at least two points of contact with the ground.

*I like function over fashion. These are lightweight, without sacrificing durability and value.

*You can stub your toe on rocks, and walk away unhurt.

Final Thoughts:

The only change that I might suggest for this boot is a full shank. I like the price, it is a good value for the money. The boot fits well, and does a solid job. I could see some added benefit of insoles, at a later date, as these are starting to wear. I will be buying another pair to set back in the closet when these wear out.  

Movie Review

We watched most of  After Armageddon, which is a History channel production about the aftermath of a global pandemic and the effect on society. It follows a couple and their older son and the events that happen to them. 

It has the basic prepper information, but I did find a few new tidbits. For example, the effects and progress of dehydration and starvation were interesting to learn. At 1:28:00, you'll have to decide if it is worth your time. Sweetheart and I both enjoy a good disaster/survival movie so it was more of a movie night  for us. We also like to make Mystery Science Theater 3000 comments as well. I like Crow the best, while I think Gypsy might be my Sweetheart...if we had to pick.

We gave it a 7 and 8, so 7.5 out of 10.

It's on Youtube, so it's some free entertainment and it has a prepping angle. Enjoy the weather, and take care.

Keep Right On Prepping  - K

How to Make Your Own Powder Laundry Detergent 2

We have been using our own homemade laundry detergent for 6 months, and here is the original post, if you are interested. The results have been very good, with a slight learning curve. Some of the early loads came out a little soapy and had to be re-rinsed.  We started using warm water instead of cold, and putting the detergent into the water after about 2-3 gallons had filled the tub. This solved the problem.

The four cup batch before it got mixed. The paint bucket from Lowe's has been a great place to keep the detergent.

The results have been very good, and the only noticeable difference has been the savings. The last batch ( 11 cups ) was made on May 11th, and cost us $7.99. So a little over a dollar a month for laundry, and we need to do at least one load a day to keep up. I made another 4 cup batch today, the only change has been that the Fels-Naptha has been grated to a fine consistency.

I have also been using a little white vinegar on occasion as a fabric softener, whiten the whites, and remove the sweat stains from my undershirts.

I prefer the scent of the homemade detergent over some of the store bought brands. The scent is best described as a lack of artificial scents.

The last six months has included clothes from yard work,restaurant level dirty, and workouts. I haven't seen any difference between Tide and our homemade detergent. Sweetheart would like a occasional scented version, perhaps a little oil concentrate could be added to the recipe? She does a vast majority of the laundry and has been rather indifferent to the change in detergents.

Our six month experiment has been a success. We will continue using our homemade version, and save some serious money for other preps. I ran the numbers and $32.00 will provide enough laundry detergent to last two years, with a load being done everyday. Not too bad.

In a long term situation, the ingredients do need to be safe guarded against moisture, since I had some minor clumping of the Borax and Super Soda. Clean clothes would be a huge morale booster and a possible way to barter services for goods in an economic collapse. Any thoughts?

Keep Right On Prepping - K

UPDATED:

On the first batch, I ran out of Fels-Naptha and used Ivory soap to get the right ratio. Here is a little trick to save some time instead of grating it. The ivory soap scent is rather strong after it is microwaved, just as a warning.

MM - If you could comment on the acceptability of using Ivory soap for allergies, it would be greatly appreciated.

Alert - Evolve Bleach Tablets for prepping

I picked these up at my local store, and I was excited to find a 32 count bottle of Ultra Concentrated BLEACH tablets for less than $3.00.

But wait, here is the kicker. On the right hand side in very, and I mean very, small print it says, " Not for sanitation or disinfection". Really? Bleach should kill pathogens. So, this means it isn't or can't be used for water purification. I did email Evolve about 3 weeks ago and asked these very same questions. Can it be used for water purification? Does it kill bacteria and viruses? So far, I haven't received an email in return.

I decided that if they wouldn't respond, I'll do my own digging around. Bleach has a chemical formula of NaOCl or sodium hypochlorite for the chemists.

Evolve has the chemical formula of Sodium dichloroisocyanurate dihydrate 25-100% , Citric acid monohydrate 1-10% , and Sodium carbonate 1-10%. These were taken from the MSDS, that can be seen here

Evolve is NOT bleach and should NOT be used for water purification.

If you are looking for a granular form of water purification that is easy to store, then take a look at pool shock, it's chemical formula is calcium hypochlorite. It is an excellent form of water purification, and comes in a dry form that is easier to store than liquid bleach. Bleach has a recommended shelf life of 6 months to a year. I've also provided a link to Survival Mom's PDF on the use of Pool Shock for water purification.

So, just an informative FYI to help everyone save money.

I've also include a search engine result from Google for using pool shock to purify water if you'd like to research further into the topic.

Review - Ozark Trail Scout Junior Dome Tent

I'm actually a little embarrassed to be reviewing a tent from Walmart, but the price and size was right for $19.99.  The size of the tent in the package is one dollar bill high and 2.5 dollar bills long. It also weighs around three pounds, which is quite good for a small tent. For comparison, the Gore-tex bivy that I usually use on backpacking trips weighs 1.2 pounds.  The main reason for this purchase was size, price, and weight.

 

An excellent tub design for the bottom of the tent - one piece.

 The tent is very easy to pitch, with two flexible poles forming an X at the apex of the tent. Total time to pitch took less than 8 minutes.

Room for two Thermarest and a little bit of gear.

I also purchased an 8' X 6' tarp, since rain was in the forecast. The extra tarp area provided an area to stow my gear outside and protected from the rain. This is where my outdoor experience came into play. Has anyone noticed the pictures of any FEMA or refugee camps? Blue tarps are on top of nearly all of the tents. Take a look...

Haiti refugee camp

I would suggest getting green or camouflage to help blend into the environment, if they are available. I highly recommend a tarp with every tent regardless of price. This Scout Junior Dome Tent also had the correct tub shaped bottom, this prevents water from entering from the bottom of the tent. It did rain from 10:00pm until 5:00am, and we stayed dry the entire time.

The tent has an interior height of 3 feet, which was plenty of room to sit or change clothes. The only down side was the lack of leg room once I was stretched out. I could have possibly laid from corner to corner, but Row was already asleep before I realized the problem.  I do not advise anyone over 6 feet to purchase this tent.

Final Thoughts:

The price makes it a good tent to put into a cache. Cheap enough to not worry about it getting stolen or destroyed. The compact size and weight would also make it a good candidate for a short term shelter solution. I still wouldn't take this tent on the Appalachian Trail or far from the trail head , as I'm not confident of any outdoor gear available at China-mart.  Pack a tarp or thin visqueen to throw over the top of the tent, and use the tent stakes to secure the added rain protection.


 

As a bonus, this portable fan powered by 2 D size batteries was a major score. I highly recommend one for these to stir the air in the tent.

MRE Monday - Chicken, Pulled with Buffalo Sauce (+ Recipe)

My Third MRE is Chicken, Pulled with Buffalo Style Sauce for $2.60.

NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION:
Calories: 260 Calories for entire package (from fat 70)
Total Fat 8g or 12% Daily Value
Saturated Fat 2.5g or 13% DV
Trans Fat 0g
Cholesterol 80mg or 27% DV
Sodium 1460mg or 61% DV
Total Carbohydrate 20g or 7% DV
Dietary Fiber 0g or 0% DV
Sugars 2g
Protein 28g
Vitamin A 25% DV
Vitamin C 10% DV
Calcium 2% DV
Iron 8% DV

Expectations: I really didn't have any major expectations. They were actually quite low.

Reality: The package once heated and opened didn't look very appetizing. The pulled chicken tasted like a shredded hot wing. The spice was too hot for the boys, so I wouldn't give it to any kids. I didn't care for it, but my wife thought it might be good over rice mixed with cream cheese and ranch as a dip ( I  had to correct this glaring mistake ).

Final Thoughts: I will not be buying this MRE again. In my opinion, this is a lousy product. I might not eat it, even if I didn't have anything else. The MRE did not get any votes from the family, so I would call this one a loser. If you do happen to like this, I have an easy solution to recreate this MRE for about the same cost, but with more yield.

RECIPE: Pulled Chicken with Buffalo Sauce

Favorite Hot Sauce

Butter ( dehydrated butter may be used - hydrate as directed)

Canned Chicken 

Start by mixing 1 oz. Hot sauce to 1 oz. melted butter. Make about  2-4 ounces to your preference. Open can of chicken then dump into mixture. Heat or microwave until it reaches 165 degrees F. Serve.

Basin Park Hotel Review

After a hard drive from the coast yesterday,  it's good to be back home. It's amazing the amount of pollen that has been released from the oak trees. My car is a solid pollen color. We are expecting rain soon, so that will be a huge relief for my sinuses.

Review

The Basin Park Hotel located in Eureka Springs, Arkansas was built in 1905. This was my first trip to the city, but will definitely make another trip there. The above picture was taken from the hotel bar that is located on the second floor. The Spa is also located on this floor. We had a couple of drinks, She had a margarita on the rocks, and I had two Jack and Cokes before our massages. The drinks were $5 each, they were made like I make'm at home: half Jack and half Coke. Needless to say, two got me good and relaxed for the massage. The spa was reasonable - unlike the cruise massage costs, but not as cheap as the beach massage in Costa Maya, Mexico. The hotel was very cool and supposedly haunted too. We didn't see or hear any ghosts though.

You can see the hotel on the left, right after a town park. If you look hard, you can also see the sign from the first picture too. About the town, the town was built around the turn of the century and along a steep hillside. The houses in this area are distinct. They are not the cookie cutter houses of today. The town also offers some very eclectic shops. I was surprised by how friendly the town is towards pets too. The only thing I didn't like about the trip was the hippies and their patchouli oil. They stink.

 This gives you the idea of the terrain that the town was built around. The room was small compared to modern hotels, but the room was very clean, distinct, and had a nice bathroom. The bathrooms were an added convenience to make the hotel palatable to the modern day traveler. I wish I had taken a picture of the Cave Room where we had breakfast pastries and coffee one morning. The pastries were made in a local bakery and very good. The trip was an excellent anniversary get away - and much needed. The town gets 5 stars and the hotel gets 5 stars too.