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Reviews by cryder (4)


Alpinist (Manufacturer link) Average Rating = 4.07/5 Average Rating : 4.07/5

In: Gear: Archive

Review 5 out of 5 stars

Review by: cryder, 2004-08-28


As a climber, I appreciate this magazines place in the climbing universe. Do we really need yet another US-centric-hero-clad-ad-fest? As someone who climbs alpine style, I appreciate the international focus and brilliant attention to detail. I also appreciate the unflinching editorial viewpiont that is not afraid to be disliked. Jeremy Collins' cartoons also make for great comic relief. This mag is not for everyone, but it is for the alpinist.


G-10 (Manufacturer link) Average Rating = 4.00/5 Average Rating : 4.00/5

In: Gear: Alpine & Ice Climbing: Crampons

Review 4 out of 5 stars

Review by: cryder, 2004-08-11


These are my rock eaters. I have g-12's for technical ice, but these are favorites for when the prospect of an intermitent rock / compact snow route in non winter conditions and I want to use a light hiker for speed. Very durable. Good price. Wish the straps were black, as the yellow ones get dirty quickly.


PocketRocket Stove (Manufacturer link) Average Rating = 4.00/5 Average Rating : 4.00/5

In: Gear: Hiking and Camping: Stoves: Canister Mounted

Review 3 out of 5 stars

Review by: cryder, 2004-08-11


At first I was in love with this stove, but as time goes on I am wanting an update. Yes - it's handy, compact, and reliable. Not a rockstar at altitude, but I have done ok at 12k feet with it. My biggest gripes are getting a pot full of water to stay on top and not nock over with the slightest bump, and also trying to cook in my vestibule. It just stands too tall. Cook outside of a vestibule and the wind has its way with it and it will flicker. I have fashioned three coathangers to to slip into the holes on each pronge as stabilizers, but would like to see a design / accessory update address the stability and hieght issues. Would also like an auto light feature.


Big Bang SL -15° Down (Manufacturer link) Average Rating = 5.00/5 Average Rating : 5.00/5

In: Gear: Archive

Review 5 out of 5 stars

Review by: cryder, 2004-08-11


The concept behind this bag actually works - a secondary draft tube that acts as a huge vent. Open the zipper and it cools the bag, close it up tight and it damps the puppy down like a stove. The bag is an honest to goodness -15 degree bag that wont roast you into a sweaty pulp on a 10 above night. Also, for those who climb alpine style, the vent seems to help keep the down dry and the bag usable when wearing damp clothes to bed. Contruction is top notch, and the Conduit fabric is off to a good start in being breathable but able to keep the bag dry. I am a big guy, and love the roomy cut. At just over $365 bones for a size long -15 F bag, its suprisingly versatile and priced right (I bought it for $105 on sale at REI).