One of the keys to a successful off-road trip is preparation. I’ve written about that many times. Understandably, the focus is on preparing your vehicle and yourself for the journey. With this article I’d like to zero in on personal items and camping gear. Do you know how to handle… Continue reading
You’re in the middle of nowhere stuck in the sand. Your buddy waits patiently while you paw through your car looking for the recovery strap and gear needed to get you out of your bind. I know it’s in here somewhere! you scream (along with a few choice words). Your… Continue reading
If you watch an experienced four wheeler unpack his vehicle, you’ll notice his gear includes various pieces of wood. Whattheheck, is he some kind of carpenter? Nope, he’s just carrying some trail tools he’s found valuable. A muddy trail might call for something to keep his knees protected or to… Continue reading
Breakdowns and broken parts are about as common as dirt in your face and wind in your hair. In fact, considering the abuse a vehicle often takes, it’s a wonder that the breakdowns aren’t more severe. In an earlier column I discuss ways to minimize hazards and therefore potential damage… Continue reading
Following up on last month’s article, A Primer on Winching, Part 1 , we’ll delve deeper into the winching process. As with the previous column, this information comes from my exclusive Winch Recovery Bandana, which you can purchase from the Badlands Off-Road Adventures web site. Winch kit All successful winching… Continue reading
If you spend any significant amount of time in difficult terrain, you’re bound to encounter a recovery situation at some point. It could be either your vehicle or someone else’s. And a winch may be the proper tool at that time. This is a good time to review recovery, and… Continue reading
Summer is here, and the newspapers have released their lists of favorite books to enjoy while you’re lounging in an easy chair somewhere. Reading isn’t just for fun, though. It can be educational, as well. Over the decades I’ve amassed quite a collection of books devoted to 4 wheeling and… Continue reading
Outdoorsmen are quite skilled, generally speaking. But one of the less understood skills is how to sharpen knives properly. Most people have a vague idea of the process. Perhaps you’ve even tried using one of those gadgets you buy at the store. Knife sharpening involves certain tools and skills. With… Continue reading
Though small, tent stakes play a vital role in your campout. Using inferior or insufficient tent stakes can mean a disaster for your outing. Proper staking is generally possible only with long, heavy duty tent stakes. Many tents today come with thin, wire-like stakes. Those are fine in some situations,… Continue reading
When I have a problem I cannot diagnose, my first call is to Bruce at Bogart Engineering. He has helped me solve many issues by tracking down the sound. I persuaded Bruce to share his knowledge with us. You’re driving home after a great day of off-roading and notice a… Continue reading
One of the many benefits of being an instructor is learning from my students. Usually it’s regarding some cool product. Such was the case in January. During my Tread Trainer class, a student mentioned oil-absorbent sheets. It sounded like a great product, so I stopped by West Marine (www.westmarine.com) and… Continue reading
Much of the time in the outdoors, you will be on your own for immediate medical care, with definitive medical services 2 or more hours away. Provided, of course that you can even signal for help! In preparation for an outing or expedition, you need to make sure everyone has… Continue reading
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