The Hike Continues Part 3

As we awoke with high hopes for the day, we wanted to get out and find elk.  We loaded up our packs for the morning, a Pro Bar for breakfast and we started heading out behind camp. We hiked up to a great looking meadow and set up in a tree line. Al was about 75 yards behind me calling. We sat for over 2 hours with no bugles or any sight of elk. With the temperatures rising we decided to head deep into the woods to hopefully find an elk bedded down or at least moving through the cool trees. We hiked over another mile behind one of the mountains behind camp.  If you would have told me on day one we would be hiking around this peak I would of thought there is no way I would even think about it. Little did I know we hike way past this peak and climb up even high the next morning. As we hiked we would let out a cow call here and there to see if we could get some sort of response. Through the trees we could see a huge meadow lined with pine trees and aspens. The aspens were still very green and not started to change to the fall colors. As we came into the clearing I spotted a meat pole, fire ring and a few other signs of a old outfitters camp.

We pulled out the map and found a stream to be on the other side of the meadow.  We explored the area and found a very recent outfitters camp. This had to be where the pack horses where coming from. At this point things started looking better. We saw they had elk and this might be the right area. We set up in some trees that gave us a 360 degree view of the meadow. We called and called and called hoping either to get an answer or at least catch something moving to bed. It was approaching 11am and getting extremely hot. We decided to head back to camp  to refresh and reload on water for the afternoon. At camp we enjoyed lunch and relaxed in the shade.  we talked about the evening hunt and what our plan should be.

We decided to sit the waterhole above camp, Al would go farther to one side and I would cover the other side over looking the pond and a few open meadows in the valley. We called almost till dark for  nothing. At this point, I am more of a glass half empty guy and Al is the glass is half full guy. I was a bit frustrated to say the least. Although with Al's positive thinking it helped me to keep pushing on. I knew things could change in a matter of seconds. It was between 5-6pm and still it was very warm.  We sat the high ridge above camp and glassed till dark. The only time I put on my jacket was back at camp once the sun went down. It would get chilly but it was still not what I was expecting. I was worried about being to cold before the trip now I wish I would of had my Southern California gear.

Colorado 2014 Let The Pack-in Begin part 2

As we rolled out of bed Monday morning feeling well rested and ready for the hike we had in front of us. Once again we hit up the free breakfast at hotel to fuel up and we hit the road for the trail head. After the hour or so drive we were at the trail head loading our packs with the last minute items and strapping on the bows. "The Bama Boys" pulled in shortly after us. They had hike in the day before to set up camp and get situated. The told us they made it back to the car just as it started to rain last night. These guys drove 24 hours straight then hiked over 6 miles that day. These guys were not messing around.

"The Bama Boys" geared up quickly and hit the trail ahead of us. We put on our 85 pound packs and started the hike in. The trail was covered in mud which made foot placement very important. We hiked past the spot we stopped at yesterday and headed up steep muddy switch backs. The mud caked up on our boots, with the mud, the weight of my pack and the altitude I had to give it all I had. We found the cut off trail that lead up to the area we wanted to camp. We hiked 50-100 yards at a time and would stop for a breather. With temps only in the mid 50's I was still sweating my butt off.

As we started up the cut off trail we were passed by an outfitter with pack mules packing down a 4 x 5 rag horn and possibly a cow from the looks of the load on the mules. Hopes were high as we must be in elk country. As we hiked on we passed "The Bama Boys" camp and kept on going.  There was little streams and weeps of water every were. We climbed up another hill and I needed a break as Al pressed on another 100 yards or so. He returned rather quickly as he spotted a camp and a decoy about 300 yards away. We had competition in the area. This could have been good or bad as they might push something our way or we could spook something to them.

We hiked up to a small flat spot in the trees and decided this was going to be home for the next 4-5 days. We quickly set up camp, hung our food and then set off to find water. We knew of the stream down hill from us but did not want to carry almost 4 gallons of water up hill. We set off behind camp, a few minutes later we found a nice little stream that was flowing pretty good. We pumped our bladders and filled our spare containers and set back off to camp. The whole time at camp we never heard a bugle or saw movement in the valleys but it was hot. So I did not expect to see much in the middle of the day.

We made the call to not get to far from camp as we were a little tired from the hike in. We found a small pond surrounded by aspens and pines. I set up just inside the tree line and Al took off 50-75 yards behind me to to call. We sat for close to 2 hours. We did not see or hear anything in the 2 hours. I heard Al coming up behind me so I packed my gear and we headed to a high spot to glass. We glassed till almost dark. Then down the hill back to camp. We had dinner, I had beef stroganoff mountain house. It was pretty good. I just should have grabbed some pepper from my food bag. It was off to sleep in hopes of elk in the morning.

Colorado 2014 We Came, We Hiked, Then We Hiked Some More. Part 1

We loaded up the truck Friday September 19 2014, with alarms set and all the gear loaded it was time for my last man soda and off to bed. 5:00am came quick. I showered and said my goodby's to my family, I left my house at 5:38. I told Al I would be over around 5:45am I was right on time. We hit the road, with 2 stops for gas and 10.5 hours later we pulled into Cortez. We got our room at Super 8 and headed to Walmart. We picked up our over the counter tags along with a few other items for the trip. We had a good dinner at Jimmer's BBQ and headed back to the room to get a good nights rest for the hike in in the morning. About 12:30 am I caught a flash out of my eye and then heard some of the loudest thunder I have ever heard. It proceeded to rain the rest of the night and into the morning. At that point we decided to to sleep in and get a bankers start.

Once we rolled out of bed we hit up the free breakfast downstairs. As we ate, the Weather Channel was on and calling for a massive thunder storm to come through Sunday afternoon till mid Monday Morning. We left for the trail head around 8 am. We were trying to find a few spots we had previously located on Google Earth to set our camp and just get used to the area we will be hunting in. Once we got to the trail head the Rinehart came out and we both shot a few arrows. We were slapping arrows at 20 yards. Time to beat feet.

 We headed in to the high country, crossed a river and started climbing a trail out of the valley. We found fresh elk tracks in the mud covered trail. At that point things were starting to look up. We climbed the trail for 40-45 minutes or so, the trail just kept switch backing away from the areas we were wanted to hunt. We headed back down the trail to a few ponds we saw on the way in. There was recent sign of elk and beaver all around the ponds, even a huge beaver dam. As the clouds started to billow up from the other side of the mountain. We hiked back down to check one last spot past the first trail we took. The surroundings where beautiful. There were small streams everywhere and one raging river. This is high country elk hunting, I was hooked. We called it a day and headed back to the truck.

At the truck we took our packs off, as we were getting ready to leave as two guys from Alabama pulled in to the trail head. Now known as "The Bama Boys". We all introduced ourselves and explained both our plans as to were we would be hunting. None of us wanted to impede on each others hunting grounds. "The Bama Boys" were going to the right and we were going left, perfect. "The Bama Boys" were great guys and very helpful. They filled us in on a cut off trail that lead deeper into the mountains and that there were a few good water sources higher up. The trail turned out to be the one we were looking for all along. Hunters helping hunters out is not something I am used to being from California. Now that I think of it everyone we met was very nice and helpful. We hit Main St Brewery in Cortez for dinner, I had a great burger and a few man sodas. At dinner time flew by as we set a game plan for the morning. When we got back to the room the sky broke loose and for the rest of the night we had thunder, lightening and rain.I know one of us was up every hour looking out the window hoping the storm would blow through quicker than predicted. It did not.

Burning Boot Rubber On The Holiday Weekend

With Colorado being just around the corner for my hunting partner and I and all the packing and planning to be done, this is the only weekend we could make it out to check our cams. So we set the plan to hit it early and beat the holiday traffic and the Southern California heat. We have had them set in this new location for a little over month. We found some good sign and decided to give it  shot. It could be a bust or we could find exactly what we are looking for, Big Bucks.

The game cams have helped us huge this year. With a 1 year old, work, house work and planning for Colorado, I have been very busy to say the least. I know Al has been in the same position with the family, work and planning for Colorado. It has been tough for us to get out and glass the hills as much as we want. With the use of game cams we have been able to look at new areas this year that last year would of taken lots of time to glass. We have had a few spots that were a bust and a few that have deer just not exactly what we are looking for. So we moved the cams and let them do most of the work. I know this is not a new practice but for us it has helped out more than I could have thought. Instead of spending 12-14 hours in the field we are able to get in and out rather quickly. It helps out with being able to get home and not use a whole day in the field. That time can be saved for hunting.

So who else is going to make it out in the field this weekend? Are you going hunting, fishing, camping or just a day hike with the family. I will also be hitting Gum Grove Park Monday morning if anyone want to get 2.5-4 miles. For most people Labor Day is the end of summer. For us in California it always seems to be summer. If you do make it out this weekend post a comment on what you did. Even if you just stayed at the house and had BBQ.

I know I will be hiking at least 2 days, getting all my gear ready for Colorado and fletching up some new Deer Crossing Archery Hunter arrows for the trip. I bet I will also have some house work to toss in the mix as the 3 day weekend plays out. It seems to never end. In a few days it will be off to Colorado to relax and chase elk. I know those two don't come hand in hand, to me it's a vacation. That will hopefully be filled with bugles and bulls to chase all over the high country.

The Final Countdown Has Began.

Today marks the final count down till Al and I leave to Colorado. To say I'm not excited would be a lie. The front room has turned from my son's play area to Elk Head Quarters. I have began laying out my gear, checking my lists, and making sure my bow is 100%. I will be shooting as much as I can in the upcoming weeks and pushing myself just a little harder.

When Al and I planned this trip it was almost 2 years ago, it seem so far away. Now with limited days left I feel like time is running out and I must recheck everything once or twice more. With the mix of emotions from excited, to knowing I am going to miss being home, to a little scared. I have never been backpacking this long.  I still cant wait. The texts and emails fly back and forth between Al and I, and it never seems to end.

My gear has been slowly coming together. I have my menu laid out which Mainly consists of Probar for Breakfast, Trail mix, Jerky, and summer sausage for lunch, Mountain House for dinner and Snickers or a Pats Back Country Brew. My pack will be between 40-50 pounds plus my bow. I can not wait to get camp set, and have the first afternoon and evening to familiarize ourselves with the area. Plus who know we might just get lucky and be on the Elk that afternoon. This will be a trip of a life time that I will never forget. I have one more trip to Bass Pro to get the remaining pieces and just to walk and site see with the family. As the time ticks down to D-Day I will keep you posted.

My 2014 hunting bow is.....

Hunting season 2014 just got a little better for myself. I will be shooting the 2014 Prime Defy at 70 pounds of pure knock down power. I shot a variety of bows at the beginning of the season and I finally decided on the Defy. After shooting my Centroid for 3 years I was happy with how the Prime shot and felt in my grubby little paws. Since I loved shooting my Centriod, I decided to stick with Prime. Prime makes a great bow and I am a strong believer that you get what you pay for. That being said, I shot a few Strothers this year, My hunting partner has 2 and they were great bows at a great price. If you have not shot a Strother check them out. The Prime just felt right. If you are in the market for a new bow, shoot every bow, from as many manufactures as you can.

I was finally able to pick up my bow last Wednesday from Archery Outpost. I had Conner install my Peep, D-loop, rest, and sight. Once he got everything dialed in I was ready to take my bow home.

2014 Bow Setup.
Bow: 2014 Prime Defy 70# in Real Tree
Rest: AAE DOA Full Capture Fall Away Real Tree
Sight: Montana Black Gold Custom Vengeance or Ambush Single Pin
Stabilizer: B Stinger Pro Hunter Maxx 8"
Arrows: Deer Crossing Archery, Hunters and SD Hunters 300 spine
Fletchings: Blazer Vanes
Broadheads: G5 Montec 100 grain
Release: Scott Little Bitty Goose
Quiver: Tight Spot 

2014 Prime Defy

2014 Prime defy

The first day at the range with my new bow was a success. I was shooting really close to where my old sight was sighted in. I was off by about 6-9 yards. I will be changing out my Vengeance to my Ambush sight. I have grow more accustomed to the single pin Since I have shot one for 2 seasons. My first end at 40 yards was a little low but the grouping was not bad. This bow shoots extremely flat and fast. I am always impressed with the products from Prime.

First End at 40 yards off by a few yards

At the end of the night I was very pleased with my new bow. I will swapping sights today and getting my quiver mounted. After that 3-5 days will be spent at the range or behind my office shooting. I want to be dialed in for Colorado. With only 58 days left till we leave, I have my work cut out for me. I am confident I will be able to get everything tuned perfectly on my new bow. I have been shooting a good amount this year so I am confident in my form. I just need to get the new bow sighted in. I just have to get over to Archery Outpost, chronograph my bow to get my feet per second, then slap on the right sight tape and I am dialed in to 100 yards. I should have all that done by the end of this week. I have a great feeling for this upcoming season.

Hiking and Checking Game Cams.

It's been a little over a month since Al and I set our trail cams in a spot we wanted to scout, we finally have a weekend that we can check the cams. Al will be at my house at 4am tomorrow so we can make the drive to the trail head (about 45 minutes). Then we will hike the 4 miles to our cam location. The area we set them looked promising and we a hoping to find some big deer. Depending what is on the cams, they will either stay up or we will pull them and get to a new spot. Once that decision has been made it's a 5 mile hike back to where we had our cams set last year. We are going to hang a new one up in this spot to see if anything is left over from last season. We saw 3-4 sets of fawns during hunting season, hopefully they have grown into a few nice bucks. After that, it's back out the last 3-4 miles to the truck where cold water, a protein shake, Pat's Back country and my bow will be waiting. We should have a little time to shoot so we will set up a few targets and let some carbon fly. Then it is back to the house to enjoy the rest of my Saturday. If all goes to plan we should be home by 1 or 1:30pm. It is going to be in the low 90s by mid morning so we want to get in an out. All in all we will hike about 12 miles for the day while most of my buddies are recovering from the night before.

Product Review: Bandlands Zip-No Bino Case

When I first started hunting I carried my binoculars in my pack. After a few trips I was tired of every time I wanted to glass I had to stop, get my bino's out, glass, and then put them back. It got old really quick. On the way home from one of our first scouting trips Tyler and I stopped by Turners, I thought I had found the solution in the binocular straps. I purchased those and was off for some turkey hunting in the next couple of days. After hiking 6-8 miles that day chasing wild turkey, my binoculars where bouncing all over my chest, I had a new problem. I would rather pull them out of my pack then have my chest beat for hours. I knew that would not work as I would need them to glass spots quickly and on the move. I would need my bino's at any given moment. I have seen a lot of guys on the hunting boards looking for a great binocular case. With the Badlands Zip-No Bino Case you get just that.

After some research and chatting with Al, who at the time we were just starting to hunt together. He recommended the Badlands Bino Case. The more I looked into their bino system the more I started leaning to Badlands. Now there are 3 different Bino Systems, The Bino X, The Zip-no, and a zippered one.

From Badlands Website

Revolutionary new way to carry your expensive binos. The new Badlands Bino Case features a new water tight and dust proof closure called the Zip-no? system which makes accessing and protecting your binos easier than ever. The shoulder harness also accommodates your hydration needs with a rollout bladder.

Specs

Weight: 1 lbs 8 oz

Capacity: 200 ci

 

 Dimensions: 10" X 6.5" X 3"

Photo: Al Quackenbush 2013

 The Bino Case also comes with a mesh netting that holds a water bladder, the netting can be rolled up and zipped away when wearing a pack and rolled out if your just going for a quick hike. All you need is your water bladder and hydration hose. I have been using this system now for 2 full seasons and unless something better comes out I'm sticking with my No-Zip Bino Case. There are two straps that go over your shoulders then two more that wrap around just above your waste so the pack will not bounce around as you hike and break brush. On the inside of the pack it has the main pocket for your binos and 4 smaller pouches on the flap that opens, one has a zipper. I keep my hunting license, deer tag, trespassing laws and one of those high tech space pens in there. I also keep a water proof pad in the big section behind my binos for taking notes on the trail. On either side of the pack it has 2 small straps, I use one for my walkie talkie and I hang my sunglasses from the other side when I am glassing. I have everything I need right in front of me. This case also has a hook on the bottom side to hook your D loop onto so you don't have to set your bow down when you want to glass a hillside real fast.

The one down side to this Binocular system is the cost. At $129.99 MSRP it is not cheap. I was able to find one a little cheaper off Ebay. It also comes with Badlands unconditional warranty. If anything happens no matter what they will fix or replace anything new or used. They have one of the best warranties in the industry. If you buy it brand new, on Ebay or at garage sale it dose not matter they will still warranty it. Check out Badlandspacks.com for all of the great Badlands products. Little did I know I would have a Bino case and 3 packs in less 2 years.

CA Draw Results Have Been Posted

On my way to work this morning I got a text from my hunting partner Al, he informed me that the CA Draw Results had been posted this morning. When I got to work the DFG website was backed up due to everyone checking on what they drew. Hopefully you all got what applied for. Once the madness slowed down I was finally able to check my tags. Al and I both drew A-31, Los Angeles National Forest either sex archery only tag. It give us from September 27, 2014 to December 31, 2014. That is a lot of time to hunt, giving us lots of chances to get out in the field. Our trail cams are set in a great looking area. Now only time will tell.

For 2014 in CA I also have Archery Only Deer, a bear, wild pig, and bobcat tags. I will also be chasing wild turkey in the fall. In September we will be going to Colorado for over the counter elk and hopefully I will be able to get a left over bear tag too. There is a chance I might be going to Missouri for whitetail, that might be along shot with Colorado and a 1.5 year old. We will just have to see. Now its time to get the boots dirty and do some glassing.

Proud to anounce I am part of Deer Crossing Archery Shooting Staff

I had been hearing good things about Deer Crossing Archery online so I decided to check a little more into them.  After my inquires and discussion with them I was asked to be a part of the Shooting Staff. I like what they stand for and are doing in the industry. This is straight off of their website on the About Us,

Deer Crossing Archery was started on April 15, 2013 with the vision of creating a better arrow. Owner, Bart Lawhorn, has made carbon products for over a decade, and his experience brought a level of knowledge and efficiency unmatched in his field. Needless to say, we were quite pleased when we discovered that building a better arrow also meant building affordable arrows, and Deer Crossing Archery now holds its place as the Best Value in Carbon Arrows. We have expanded from our single spine hunter to a full line of hunting, target, and crossbow arrows for almost every archer. So if you want to know what its like to shoot great arrows without breaking the bank, look no further than Deer Crossing Archery.

I have been shooting the Deer Crossing Archery Hunter and SD Hunters for 4 months now. I have to say the quality of these arrows are great. I opted for the .001 straightness. At this time I have only fletched up 6 of each. They hit the target hard and group together nice and tight. The SD Hunters stands for small diameter, these arrows are just what they say small. At this point I only have only set up the glue in 100 grain heads. At 20 yards it hits the target in split second. The SD's fly so fast it is crazy. I have been shooting the Hunters more just because I have not set up all the SD's  with the outserts. I don't want to get sighted in on arrows that I will have to change once I get them set up with the outserts. That will be my project this week is to get all the SD Hunters set up with outserts. I also have the LD Target arrows on the way. They should be at my house tomorrow.

This high momentum small diameter arrow is perfect for the hunter who wants a TON of down range penetration and bombproof durability. It is also well suited for the field archer who wants wind drift free arrow flight. Featuring our patent pending outsert technology, the SD Hunter is the best value small diameter arrow available. Have us build your own custom design using the different vane and nock options, or purchase shafts and do your own custom build.
All outserts will be sent loose with instructions for installation. Make sure to add 1/2" to your Carbon to carbon length to accommodate the outsert.
All cut Shafts/Arrows are measured carbon to carbon
.166" Inner Diameter
Spines (Grains Per Inch) (Outside Diameter)
300 (11.6 GPI) (.254" OD)
350 (10.2 GPI) (.245" OD)
400 (9.2 GPI) (.238" OD)
500 (8.3 GPI) (.232" OD)
- See more at: http://deercrossingarchery.com/collections/dca-arrows/products/sd-hunter-series#sthash.GCyzEzi3.dpuf

SD Hunters

This high momentum small diameter arrow is perfect for the hunter who wants a TON of down range penetration and bombproof durability. It is also well suited for the field archer who wants wind drift free arrow flight. Featuring our patent pending outsert technology, the SD Hunter is the best value small diameter arrow available. Have us build your own custom design using the different vane and nock options, or purchase shafts and do your own custom build.

All outserts will be sent loose with instructions for installation. Make sure to add 1/2" to your Carbon to carbon length to accommodate the outsert.

.166" Inner Diameter
Spines (Grains Per Inch) (Outside Diameter)
300 (11.6 GPI) (.254" OD)
350 (10.2 GPI) (.245" OD)
400 (9.2 GPI) (.238" OD)
500 (8.3 GPI) (.232" OD)

Hunters
The Hunter is the arrow this company was founded on, and continues to be our most popular arrow for year round use. Whether you are on the 3D course, practicing in the yard, or hunting in the field or treestand, this mid-weight arrow provides a great balance of speed and momentum. Manufactured with our Y-Weave technology, the Hunter Series also has exceptional durability and consistency. Have us build your own custom design using the different vane and nock options, or purchase shafts and do your own custom build. Either way, you will be getting the Best Value in Carbon arrows.

Inserts and tips will be shipped unglued so that customers may utilize the PDP weight system or use third party inserts. Inserts/tips can be installed with super glue. Please clean and test fit before gluing.

.245 Inner Diameter
Spines (weights in Grains Per Inch)
300 (8.9 GPI)
350 (7.7 GPI)
400 (7.4 GPI)
500 (6.6 GPI) 
 

Deer Crossing Archery has a full line of arrows. From Target to Hunting and even crossbow bolts. If you are in the market for arrows check out Deer Crossing Archery. They sell high quality arrows at an affordable prices. For those of you interested in arrows you can use Brett104 for a 10% discount off your order on the Deer Crossing Archery website. I am proud to be a part of Deer Crossing Archery Shooting Staff and hope you give them a try. Why not save some of your hard earned money and shoot high quality arrows. You can have both.

Deer Crossing Archery was started on April 15, 2013 with the vision of creating a better arrow. Owner, Bart Lawhorn, has made carbon products for over a decade, and his experience brought a level of knowledge and efficiency unmatched in his field. Needless to say, we were quite pleased when we discovered that building a better arrow also meant building affordable arrows, and Deer Crossing Archery now holds its place as the Best Value in Carbon Arrows. We have expanded from our single spine hunter to a full line of hunting, target, and crossbow arrows for almost every archer. So if you want to know what its like to shoot great arrows without breaking the bank, look no further than Deer Crossing Archery. - See more at: http://deercrossingarchery.com/pages/about-us#sthash.Vo7hxTEv.dpuf

Deer Crossing Archery was started on April 15, 2013 with the vision of creating a better arrow. Owner, Bart Lawhorn, has made carbon products for over a decade, and his experience brought a level of knowledge and efficiency unmatched in his field. Needless to say, we were quite pleased when we discovered that building a better arrow also meant building affordable arrows, and Deer Crossing Archery now holds its place as the Best Value in Carbon Arrows. We have expanded from our single spine hunter to a full line of hunting, target, and crossbow arrows for almost every archer. So if you want to know what its like to shoot great arrows without breaking the bank, look no further than Deer Crossing Archery. - See more at: http://deercrossingarchery.com/pages/about-us#sthash.Vo7hxTEv.dpuf

My other Hobby Smokin' Bumz BBQ

When I am am not out setting trail cams, glassing hillsides, or hunting deer you can find me in my or one of my great neighbors backyard. Standing around the smoker, open pit or Weber. Between myself and my neighbors we have 2 griddles, 2 offset smokers, 1 Real Steel Pit, 2-3 Weber Kettles, and 1 Santa Maria style pit. When we BBQ we go all out.

I myself have my Real Steel Pit (The Tin Man), an Offset smoker, a griddle and a Weber Kettle. If you can't tell I love to BBQ. I started Smokin' Bumz BBQ to hopefully get more into cooking at parties and events but mainly just for fun. I cook anything from carne asada to beef brisket and everything in between. For now I am practicing as much as I can to perfect my flavors which my neighbors don't seem to mind.  My favorite cut of meat is the pork shoulder or butt. I love a good pulled pork slider with a splash of my home made BBQ sauce. I have been toying with a few good ideals that might take them over the top. You will just have to wait and see on that.

My go to pit right now is my Real Steel Pit. A great guy named Gilbert and son build these awesome pits in Las Vegas. They are as much piece of art as they smoker. I have been using this pit for over year now and I love it.  It has spots for 3 racks and 4 hooks on the top of  the inside of the smoker. The pit has a unique feature of the top, middle and bottom piece are old plow disks. They are thick steel and hold heat very well. You also get a discada that is made out of the plow disk.  I opted to get 2, one for cooking and one acts a second water pan.

 

This pit works great, I use half the wood as my offset smoker. The pit keeps great heat and I only have to add wood about every hour. Gilbert is on to something with this pit design. I haven't really found a bad thing to say about how this pit cooks. To me there is nothing better than starting the smoker at 5:30-6am and putting 6-8 pounds of meat on the smoker.  From the first time I met him he was always nice and friendly. He never tried to sell me on his pit. He answered all my questions from how the pit held heat to cook times. He told me this pit was a game changer and he was right. This pit changed how I smoke meat. The quality of how this pit was built speaks for itself. If you are looking for a new pit check these guys out at the Orange County Market Place or check out the web site at RealSteelPits.com. If you stop by the OC Market Place tell Gilbert I sent you.

Wilderness Athlete: Hydrate and Recover and Energy and Focus

Since the beginning of the year I have tried to cut down on my daily energy drink intake. For me I love a Monster in the morning like most have a coffee. I don't like coffee, I have tried everything from 7-11 to the high end Starbucks stuff. Either way I just don't Like it. Take for example my hunting partner Al and I one morning while deer hunting A-31 in the Los Angeles National Forest. It was 29 degrees, cold and windy. When we me up after glassing for 2-3 hour and seeing nothing we pulled out the jet boil and heated up some water. Al pulled out his coffee and I pulled my Swiss hot chocolate. You should of seen the look on his face, priceless. Ok lets get back on track.

I had been reading about Wilderness Athlete for some time and decided to give it a shot. After talking to a few buddies I came to the conclusion I was going to get a tube of Hydrate and Recover and Energy and Focus.

Hydrate and Recover

NEWEST GENERATION OF SPORTS DRINKS FORMULATED TO REPLENISH AND REFUEL YOUR BODY.

Nearly fifty years ago, the era of sports drinks began with the introduction of Gatorade® to the marketplace.  Scientific research, however, has continued to uncover the body’s “thirst” for specific nutrients that keep us operating at peak levels.  With this new infrmation, sports drinks have evolved beyond simple fluid and electrolyte replacement products into versatile performance enhancing fuels.  Wilderness Athlete Hydrate & Recover is the latest generation of sports drinks, incorporating all the current science related to rehydrating and refueling your muscles to meet the demands of physical activity.  By replenishing the broad array of nutrients that are consumed during exercise, and by refilling fluid “reservoirs,” Hydrate & Recover keeps your body and brain fueled for increased endurance and ready to meet the next challenge.* Gluten Free

HYDRATE & RECOVER ADVANTAGES:

• Precisely balanced electrolyte and mineral composition to support proper hydration, energy metabolism, and physical endurance*
• Isotonic formulation ensures fast gastric emptying, rushing fluids to muscles and organs where they’re needed most*
• Contains no artificial colors, flavors, stabilizers, or preservatives*
• Low Glycemic Index (GI) sugars combined with complex carbohydrates and L-Glutamine help support increased endurance and prevent fatigue*
• Includes Glucosamine to maintain and nourish joints and retain their proper fluid levels*
• Provides energy cycle cofactors and standardized botanical extracts for sustained ATP (energy) production throughout the body*
• *These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.  This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

Energy and Focus

FINISH STRONG BY INCREASING YOUR ENERGY AND BOOSTING MENTAL CLARITY.

We’ve all tried them, one or more of them, in fact – convenience store energy drinks.  These are the beverages that seem to share some very common traits: interesting, provocative names, non-stop advertising, and almost cult-like following.  The reality is that these products usually end up taking far more of our energy than they could ever give — producing roller coaster highs and lows, all the while depleting vital nutrients and overstressing our physiology.  Wilderness Athlete Energy & Focus is a notably different type of energy drink, uniquely formulated to feed the energy producing mechanisms in the body while boosting mental clarity and increasing physical output.  Originally developed for professional, Olympic®, and other elite athletes, Energy & Focus is the healthy, effective alternative to  “cult” canned and bottled products, and is now available to the athlete in each of us.* Gluten Free

ENERGY AND FOCUS ADVANTAGES:

• Contains no simple sugars to interfere with normal blood sugar metabolism and regulation – a true “no crash” formula*
• A comprehensive profile of neuroactive nutrients to support optimum brain and nervous system energy and physiology*
• Potent antioxidant profile of Vitamin C, Vitamin E, and Mixed Carotenes protects tissues from free-radical damage*
• Fast acting, steady energy boost – Feel it in minutes, enjoy for it hours*
• Includes adaptogenic botanical extracts to support physical stamina*
• Naturally flavored and colored, contains no artificial ingredients*
• *These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.  This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

I have been mixing them together in what mountain firefighters have dubbed the Blaze. It is a great tasting and fast working energy drink. There is no crash like with regular energy drinks, less than half the calories, and has vitamins and minerals. I have been drinking this now since the beginning of the year. The Blaze has became my go to morning drink.

You can drink the Hydrate and Recover of Energy and Focus alone as well. I have tried both. I like the mix the best but alone they both taste great. I have also used the Hydrate and Recover after a long night of drinking man sodas. The next morning I drink a Hydrate and Recover and I'm back to 100%. Not that I condone long nights of man soda, but they happen. The Energy and Focus to me did not do to much. But when you mix them together the magic happens.

Wilderness Athlete also sells both the Hydrate and recover and Energy and Focus in single serving packets. This will be great for backpacking, hiking or even out with the family at the county fair. For my Colorado backcountry Elk hunt in September I will be mixing the two into milk shake straws and heat sealing both sides. So when I am ready for a boost I grab a straw cut it open and dump it into my water pouch. I am very happy with both products and I will continue to purchase these as well as trying out a few of Wilderness Athlete's other products. 

Pros
-Great Taste
-Fast acting
-No Crash
-Packed with good Vitamins and  Minerals

Cons
-Best with a shaker bottle.

A great product for this would be one my hunting partner reviewed on his blog The SoCal Bowhunter  (http://socalbowhunter.blogspot.com/2014/04/product-review-easygo-dispenser.html) It is a great product for those who do not have a shaker.

Peaks and Valleys. Peaks and Valleys

As April passes I find myself hearing Coach Mcginnis (Varsity Linebacker Coach) talking about peaks and valleys at practice and games. At the time it didn't mean anything. I was a 17-18 year old know-it-all punk, I thought this was b.s. to put it lightly. After being on a Peak for 3 months, with work, a 11 month old, and house work. My training for the Elk Experiment has dropped from 5-6 times a week to 1-3 days. Last week I found myself in a valley. Much like one you would find while elk hunting. I was out for a run in the afternoon, while I was running (jogging for you real runners)I could hear Coach Mcginnis talking about peaks and valleys in practice. He would explain that you can not be on a peak 100% of the time. You are going to go through valleys. That elk might be on that next ridge and you must cross the valley to reach him. Or you could find yourself with lack of motivation to hit the gym(myself). It could also be  home, work, or school issues, the list goes on and on. You have 2 choices either, one foot in front of the other and climb out or accept the valley and trudge on. I for one am a fighter. I'm climbing out of this valley and regain my stance on the top of the peak.

There is no time limit that one can be in a valley. For some it might be a day or two. For others it could be years. One of the main things you will need to climb out of the valley is some sort of Motivation. Positive people send positive and will help you drive your goal in the right direction. It will not happen over night and you are going to need a push every now and again to keep hammering up the peak. No matter how you find your motivation be it music, a video, your best friend, or a coach from the past. Just get motivated.

In the past few weeks of May, I have been back in the gym 4-6 days a week. My hunting partner Al and I have hiking with our packs once a week 2-3 miles, loaded with 80 plus pounds. I am pushing my way up the slope. 121 days left till we leave the sunshine state and head for the high country.

The Elk Experiment.

Welcome to the Elk Experiment. I want you to join me, as I prepare for my Over The Counter Archery Elk hunt in Colorado. This is my journey from your average out of shape beer drinker to an in shape high country bow hunter by September. When I started this journey I weighed in at 247lbs. As of today April 16 2014, I am 3 months and 9 days in and weigh 217 lbs. That leaves 156 days till we hit the road to Colorado. My goal for this journey is to be 200lbs, running 8-9 minute miles and pulling a 70lb bow. I ran a 10:53 mile last night. Our camp in Colorado will be anywhere between 8000-11,000' elevation. At these Elevations just walking to your car leaves people short of breath.

Now try hiking 6-8 miles a day minimum for 4-5 days. If you are lucky enough to tag out, then hiking was the "easy" part. The real work is on the pack out. Taking 80-100lbs loads back to camp. This is when the training, both mental and physical will come into play. I will also be hunting with my hunting partner Al. If we are lucky enough to both tag out then the work has been doubled. Sit back and enjoy my journey as I prepare myself for elk in 2014. Till the next time on the Elk Experiment. Its all about the release.

Test Shooting the 2014 Prime Alloy and Impact.

Yesterday I took the day off from going to the gym as I wanted to head over to my local archery shop Archery Outpost. I had a few issues with my bow that I wanted to get looked at. I had thought my rest release cable was sliding up, causing my rest to not drop as quickly as it should. Once Conner watched a few shots he informed me that it was not my rest, but my nocking point was to low. He took it back and into the bow vice it went. Re-set the nocking point, dialed it in through paper and it was shooting bullet holes. (My next project is to make a DIY paper tuner.) Back out to the range I was shooting low. I had to turn my single pin to 36 yards to hit at 20 yards. Now I will have to re-set my sight tape, another project.

After I shot 100 arrows with my bow I wanted to try a few new bows. I am thinking about getting a new bow before my trip to Colorado this year. I shot 2 of Prime's new bows for 2014. The Impact and The Alloy.

 IMPACT

 

• IBO (FPS): 340
• AXLE TO AXLE (IN): 35"
• BRACE HEIGHT: 6.25"
• MASS WEIGHT (LBS): 4.5
• DRAW LENGTH: 26" - 30"
• DRAW WEIGHT (LBS): 50, 60, 70

Drew from Archery Outpost let me shoot his Impact. He was dialing it in for an upcoming competition. We have the same draw length and draw weight. His bow is not stock off the shelf let me tell you. He had all the stabilizers, magnified sight and vibration dampening. As I shot it there was zero after shot vibration. He had change his set up so there was no valley which was not as bad as I thought it was going to be. I was really impressed after shooting this bow. It is a little long at 35" ATA but shoots really fast at 60 pounds. I really want to see what it can do at 70 pounds.

ALLOY

• IBO (FPS): 335
• AXLE TO AXLE (IN): 33.25"
• BRACE HEIGHT: 6.75"
• MASS WEIGHT (LBS): 4.2
• DRAW LENGTH: 26" - 30"
• DRAW WEIGHT (LBS): 50, 60, 70

The Alloy was just off the shelf. No stabilizer or sight, just a rest. I really liked this bow. Even without all the bells and whistles, this bow was smooth. The draw was smooth and transitioned to the valley very easy.  The Alloy seemed to want to drive the arrows to the target. This bow was set as a shop demo so it was set at about 50 pounds. This bow felt great in my hands and was very well balanced with just the display hook. This is a big ranking contender for my 2014 hunting bow.

I went back to my bow for 5-6 more ends and it felt great. I am not sure what I want to do this year. I know I am going to venture to a few other shops to try out the Elite, Hoyt and a few other manufactures this year before I do anything.

Rain and wind in the forecast, Lets go hiking

My hunting partner Al and I talk all last week about getting out and scouting a new area on the opposite side of our hunting spot. The forecast for the end of the week was looking to be the hardest rain we had got in 3-5 years. This year has been extremely dry with hardly any rain. So we needed the rain, but Al and I needed to get out of the house and hit the trail. We emailed back and forth Thursday and Friday with weather maps, models and road closers for the surrounding area we would be hiking. I made the call to give its go and at least get to the trail head. Expecting the worst I was ready for a warm breakfast instead of a hike. When we arrived at the trail head there was a light sprinkle but it seemed to be letting up. As usual we were the only car parked at the trail. That was fine since I'm not out there to hike with the masses, we want to get away.

At the start of the trail we had a few stream crossings to get over to access the trail. With the rains the  streams were now mini rivers. On 2 of the crossings I had to jump from my last rock to other side of the bank, about 4' to clear the water. At this point I was trying to stay dry. I knew the rain was all around us, so it was only a matter of time.

    

                                                               View of the incoming rain

We hiked a total of 12 miles that day. We did glass a little, with the conditions we were faced with we both knew the deer would not be moving. It felt great to get out and enjoy the day on the trail.  We had to put the rain gear on a few times but it quickly passed. Then we would strip layers off and continue on. It rained on us the last 45 minutes. I figure it was getting myself ready for elk in Colorado this year. When we got back to the car Al had brought 2 Pats Backcountry Brew. Check out his review on http://socalbowhunter.blogspot.com. Mine will be following as I just picked up one.

                                                                      Crazy Manzanita 

I was glad we ended up going and not being a typical Californian. It was a great hike and lots of talk about our upcoming elk hunt. 

      

   

Happy Feet, Happy Training.

CurrexSole RunPro Insoles Medium Arch

I was recently chosen to test out a pair of Insoles from Insoles and Beyond. As the New Year just past I set a goal to start living healthier by exercising and eating better. I picked up a new pair of running shoes and they felt great. I walked and jogged about 20 miles or so before getting my new insoles. At this point my shoes felt great or so I thought. My feet would have a slight tingle after a 5 mile plus jog. I went to the Insoles and Beyond website (insolesandbeyond.com). I picked the currexSole RunPro Medium Arch support. They were shipped out and at my house in what seemed like record time. When I pulled the insoles out of the package, I gave them my little one, two, three, bend, flex and twist test. The insoles felt great in my hands and passed my test. At this point I was excited and could not wait to get them in my shoes. I went and gathered my supplies of scissors, a sharpie and flat piece of cardboard for a surface to trace my current insoles onto the new ones. Once I pulled out my old insoles I noticed they were the exact size as the new insoles. I wear a size 12 and the new insoles fit perfectly in my shoes. At first never having an arch support before the insoles felt different but it was not uncomfortable. After my first jog around the block I was sold. My shoes were comfortable before, now they are extremely comfortable. After logging about 50 miles so far I can say I am very happy and my feet are very happy to be out pounding the pavement. I don’t notice the arch support at all and love the extra support under my feet for the hard asphalt.  Also the tingle is gone when I get back home. It makes me just want to keep going down the trail. I will be getting a few more pairs for my gym shoes to my hunting boots.

Side profile of the medium arch support.

Insoles after 50 plus miles still strong.

Perfect fit in my running shoes.

The Insoles are priced 49.95. That might seem a bit high but when it comes to your feet remember you get what you pay for.