Recent content by Chip

Update: I just replaced the second cross bar on the Thule that rides on my van. This one also replaced due to rust blistering the plastic coating on the bars, making it difficult to attach Thule load stops. This was the front bar, which had not suffered the same gouging from gunwale hardware as...

The only reason I can think of for taking the Penobscot is for hauling gear. It sounds like you are planning a light load, so I’d pick the Reflection. IMO, the Reflection is more fun to paddle, lighter to portage, and faster. The Reflection I paddled was outfitted with 3 seats and I paddled it...

I thought about cutting a U in the back edge of the seat, or drilling a hole. But that might be destructive to the seat. Adding a pad with a U in seems worth a try. I first encountered my PIA problem on a multi-day trip last summer. My improvised solution was a 3x4 piece of carpet duck taped...

I see a seam going across right above the pockets. Might not be as much of a bump because it is a “T” intersection of seams rather than a “+” , but I think there must be at least a little bump at that three-seam junction.

I haven’t tried this. I have a seat cover around. I think it’s 20 or 30 years old and it looks brittle. I should put it on and see if it’s any good. I suppose new one’s are available. With padding has to irritate less than with the pant against the composite seat. Thanks for the suggestion.

I like the tractor seats in the two Wenonas I paddle. In combination with foot bars, I feel well locked-in on the tractor seats. But, a problem for me is I develop a sore at the top of my butt crack. I’m pretty sure my pants are the culprit. Two seams cross at right angles a few inches below...

Here is response emailed from RBW: Chip, Thank you for writing to us with your thoughts on the Medium Map Case and sorry for the delay responding. You are correct that the black portion of the map case on the top and bottom is larger than it needs to be. The design for the black nylon...

I am unfamiliar with most of the listed apps. One exception is Apple iOS Compass which in no way is a navigation app. Compass provides a compass displayed on the screen, elevation (to nearest ten feet), GPS coordinates, and current heading. There's no mapping or route planning. Inclusion of...

I received the map case I ordered from Recreational Barrel Works. The zipper closure looks great! However, I don't understand why they built in so much useless black trim. I just emailed RBW this comment: I’m sending this email to suggest you enlarge the clear windows on the map case. For...

What a great hack! In the fifteen years I’ve been buying Sawyer permethrin, I don’t think I’ve used a gallon, but I probably spent near $100 on it. Thanks for posting this. I had no idea of the concentration, or that bulk permethrin was available.

I use permethrin on my clothes and for my last trip I sprayed my tent body, too. I had very few issues with bugs in the tent in the Everglades. Before Luci lights I carried candle lanterns. You could buy citronella coils for them and hang it in your tent for a while. I was never sure how well...

I went in February of 2018. Low water. I think I.S.'s pic #3 and RP's pic show the same spot in the river, right behind where I'm standing in my photo.

Thanks. I’m going to return the Seal Line and order from RB. Zipper rather than zip lock seems sure to work better.

I recently got a 12"x16" clear, plastic map case by Seal Line. I can't get the zip-lock-like closure to close. Seal Line suggests applying Vaseline, which I don't want to do because I think the Vaseline will trap dirt and make matters worse. If any of you are familiar with this map case and...

Kayakers often ask why I prefer canoes. I usually reply, “because canoes have soul.” Nobody yet has argued that point.