Thursday 31 January 2008

How to Choose a GPS Navigation System

Portability:

One of the best advantages of having a portable GPS unit is that users can easily travel with the system and use them all over North America, Europe and other programmable destinations. The systems can be easily used in rental cars to help navigate unfamiliar cities, to track distance in altitude on hiking trips and at home around town. The convenience of use is increased by its compact, light-weight design. The unit is very easy to take from one vehicle to another when you need to.

Ease-of-use:

Many GPS users find their device extremely helpful when they are trying to navigate their car to a new location along an unfamiliar route. As a result, they need clear, concise direction to provide the proper trip information. A large screen for easy viewing and an intuitive user-interface also help drivers to receive accurate trip information and still operate the vehicle safely. Please take care to watch the road not the GPS unit. I recommend the GPS units that have voice directions as well as visual.

Features & Software:

Many users rely on GPS systems as the sole source of navigation for a trip. As such, consumers should look for quality products with high-speed processors to ensure real-time accuracy and efficient, quick map development. It is also important to look for products with large memories support millions of points of interest (POIs) in order to receive accurate map development for the exact route needed.

Waterproof or water resistant:


If you are going to use the GPS for kayaking and canoeing and the GPS is water resistant, a special see-through dry bag made especially for a GPS has to be used. Water resistant will be acceptable for all other types of outdoor adventure activities such as hiking and backpacking.


Batteries and battery life:

What type of batteries are used with the GPS? Are they normal rechargeable AA batteries or are they special manufacturer batteries? Extra batteries must be carried along at all times just in case. How long do the batteries last? Is there a battery saver mode (sleep mode)? Do you have to turn the GPS on and off each time to save the batteries? How long can the GPS remain on without turning the receiver off before the battery power runs out?

Selecting the Right WTS Sights for Your Glock

I first heard about Warren Tactical Series (WTS) sights from World Champion shooter, Dave Sevigny, a few years ago. Dave told me that he had discovered something good. He spoke of new sights that will give the shooter an advantage, and that they would be coming out very soon. I kept in touch with Dave throughout that year, and eventually my efforts paid off. A business associate told me about Scott Warren. Scott turned out to be a 21-year veteran of the FBI, and a 15-year member of the FBI's Hostage Rescue Team. When I dug a little deeper, my friend told me that Scott is the lead tactical firearms instructor for that team. I had heard of Scott as a National level competitive shooter, but his day job was news to me. The rest is history. I knew from the beginning, that with Scott's and Dave's collective knowledge and experience in the real world and the competitive arena, that these US made sights would be huge. After selling hundreds of Warren Tactical Series sights to recreational shooters, competitors, and law enforcement alike, they are still selling strong. When people call, a common question is, "Which sights should I get?" Much of sight selection is preference, but here are tips that can help, when considering which set of WTS Glock sights will work for you.

Facts on WTS Rear Sights

When you speak of Warren Tactical Series sights, the topic starts with the rear sight. WTS rear sights come in two distinct models. One is the Sevigny design, which is offered in a "Competition" or "Carry" configuration. The other design offered, is the "Warren Tactical".

The Sevigny design was a joint effort between WTS's founder Scott Warren and world-class Glock champion Dave Sevigny. The Sevigny design is a variant of Scott's original design, and takes on the traditional approach with its bold squared-off design. But, unlike other sights, both the Warren and Sevigny rear blades are void of distracting serrations, undercuts, or odd angles; which promotes a uniquely sharp, crisp outline. The rear surfaces of both sights are back-cut, which slopes gently back and up toward the shooter, avoiding distracting rear light reflections. Both sights have a generously wide squared notch, measuring .120" tall by .150" wide. The idea is to allow plenty of light to come through on either side of the front sight, for lightening quick target acquisition. If you have any doubt on just how quick lightening really is, watch Dave Sevigny and Scott Warren in action. The difference in the Sevigny Competition and Carry configuration is simple. The Competition rear's vertical edges are sharper, while the Carry rear's vertical edges are rounded to help in avoiding snags during carry.

The Warren Tactical design came from Scott Warren's years of law enforcement and champion action shooting. He spent years studying and developing a design that works. The Warren Tactical patented design, quickly directs your eye to the front sight, because like the Sevigny design, there are no distracting serrations, undercuts, or odd angles. Unlike the Sevigny design, the Warren Tactical less traditional design has a unique configuration which directs the shooters eyes to the front sight. Basically there is less material getting in the way of your eye, front sight, and the target. Scott's thinking, is to allow the shooter to see as much of the target as possible. The unique notch design, with radiused corners, compliments the gentle sloping of the overall Warren Tactical look. There are no sharp edges to distract the shooter. Warren Tactical design is considered "Carry Friendly"™, which has become quite popular with law enforcement personnel, but has also been a favorite with recreational and competitive shooters. I can always tell when Scott has just held a training class in a given area, because of the increase of orders from that area within the following week. When you see the rear sight, and Scott's high caliber shooting with it, you're sold.

Front Sights

Front sights are offered in several configurations. Sevigny Competition sets come with .115 front sights, while Warren Tactical sets come with .125 fronts. Changes can be made upon request.

Both plain and fiber optic front sights have ramped serrations on the shooter's side, at 50 lines per inch. The Tritium fronts are ramped, with no serrations. Plain, fiber optic, and Tritium are all .215" high.


Choices

So you might say, "Aside from the facts, which sights should I use?" To discover which sight to select, let's consider how you're using your Glock. Are you carrying it? ...using it on the job? ...shooting in competition? The Sevigny Carry and Warren Tactical rears have rounded edges, which work well for carry, but don't discount them for practical shooting competition. If you're shooting under bright sunny skies, then fiber optic fronts are great, drawing your eye to that front sight's bright dot. If you're shooting in low-light, then the Tritium fronts work very well. Really low-light shooters often select Tritium rears and fronts.

Should you use the single Tritium lamp or the double lamp rear sight? In this case, it really comes down to preference. Some shooters swear by single lamp rears, while others say that the double lamp is definitely the way to go. Still others insist that no rear lamp is needed, because the front sight does all the work. "That's where your eye belongs anyway..." Dave Sevigny stands by the single Tritium lamp in the rear with his design, while Scott Warren's design offers the shooter choice of one or two rear Tritium lamps.

Who Uses Warren Tactical Series Sights?

Let's review a few facts. Just in 2007 alone, half of the top 30 shooters at the USPSA Production National Championships used WTS sights. Also in 2007, 9 of the top 14 overall IDPA champs at the National Championships got the job done with the sight picture of WTS sights. When you consider the fiercely competitive sight market, these statistics are remarkable. Here are just a few names of champions who use Warren Tactical design: Julie Goloski, Phil Strader, Donnie Burton, Ernest Langdon, Dave Olhasso, Arron Roberts, Gordon Carrell, and of course Scott Warren. These champions use the Sevigny Competition sights: Bob Vogel, Randy Rogers and of course Dave Sevigny. If you know anything about the practical shooting sports, you know that these folks know the game, and work hard at playing it right. In addition to the champions named above, the Air Force shooting team, the Smith & Wesson shooting team, and the Blackwater shooting instructors are all using Warren Tactical Series sights. Of course, let's not forget the hundreds of happy customers that have purchased from my site.

Variety

Although that is where the journey began, Warren Tactical Series offers more than just Glock sights. Since then, Scott has introduced sights for the S&W M&P, SIG, and S&W's 5903/5905 & 1911. More sights are in the works. If you have a question on the availability of new models, please contact me through www.MLE-ShootingSports.com. I should mention that WTS sights are all constructed of steel hardened to RC 35-40, so they can stand up to tough use in the field and on the range. If you ever have a problem with any of the WTS sights, no need to be concerned, they are 100% guaranteed.

Wednesday 30 January 2008

Bow Hunting Wild Turkey

Although not very popular among hunting enthusiast, this particular type of hunting can be very exciting and if done properly, fruitful as well. Hunting wild turkeys using a bow takes skill and patience, that is why not many hunters embark on this difficult adventure. If you are a big game fan, think of a bow hunting for wild turkey adventure as a spring training. We offer you some tips regarding this particular type of hunting:

First of all, the draw weight: a confident bow hunter will always choose a draw weight that will not affect his ability to make an accurate shot, no matter what are circumstances in which he will make that shot. We recommend using a bow scale in order to check the bow's draw weight. The heavy vibrations that are produced during the shot can in some cases alter the limb bolts and will reduce the draw weight.

Second of all, the broadheads: the shot placement in wild turkey hunts is critical. Unlike the vast majority of the big games, the wild turkey's vitals are about the size of a grapefruit. Many amateur hunters make the mistake of shooting arrows with field points and then after that they switch over to broadheads the day of the hunt. It is imperative to practice shooting with broadheads long before the day of the hunt. Regarding this issue, don't forget about the diameter restrictions your state imposes so be sure to check them before the hunting day.

Moving on, three of the most vital aspects for you bow hunting success are: sight system, bowstring and the arrow rest. As most of you know, pins tend to slide up and down and eventually bend and break, this problem also occurs with the frames that serve for protection. Don't forget to give your bowstring a once-over the moment you have finished tinkering with your sights. Remember to look for cut strands because they can lead to inefficient shooting and God forbid, dangerous situations if the string breaks during the shot. Apply wax to your string on a regular basis and check the arrow rest in order to make sure that nothing has moved/loosened since your last hunting expedition. The arrow rests are very important as they can affect the flight of the arrow.

Many hunters make the mistake of not taking seriously into consideration the nock set. The slightest movement up or down where the arrow meets the string can alter the arrow's flight as it comes off the string. We recommend using a bow square so that you can measure the exact point on the bowstring, the place where the nock set allows for the most efficient arrow flight.

Placement is crucial for hunting wild turkey with a bow that is why in order to be an efficient bow hunter you have to put in the time. All turkey hunters that use a bow have to change their hunting tactics in comparison with the hunters that use the old-fashioned shotgun because shot gunners can easily plop down at the closest tree the width of their back and with no efforts, create efficient shooting lanes. A regular bow hunter can't afford this luxury so the best setups are those that are thought well in advance.

Last but not least, practice makes perfect. If you are uncertain of your bow hunting skills you need to practice in order to improve your overall performance. Remember to shoot from both sitting and kneeling positions because in real action you will rarely have the opportunity of shooting a turkey in standing position but of course, a few shots from standing position won't hurt anyone.

All in all, bow hunting wild turkey takes a lot of practice and patience but with proper training it can bring the excitement that all hunting enthusiasts are looking for.

Summary: Bow hunting wild turkey can be a difficult thing to do but with proper training and patience it can become a fruitful and rewarding hunting experience.

Tuesday 29 January 2008

Rucksack and Backpack Advice

When you set off on a walk carrying all you need to stay out over night on your back, you will need a comfortable backpack. Choosing the right one can make the difference between an enjoyable trip and a nightmarish one.

The most important feature of a rucksack to consider is the back system. For loads much over 12 kg (26 lbs) a padded hip belt is needed so you can carry most of the weight on your hips, which are designed to bear weights, rather than on your relatively weak shoulders. This belt must fit properly and the key to this is matching the length of the pack to the length of your back.

Because everybody is a different size, rucksack manufacturers offer various adjustable back systems, which can be fine tuned to exactly the right length for any individual. Others offer fixed back length packs in a number of sizes, note that what fits your trail companion may well not fit you. To transfer weight from the shoulders to the hips some form of stiffening is needed. In smaller, simpler designs this may be just foam padding. For heavy loads, however, some form of frame is required. Many frames are flexible so they can be bent to the shape of your back.

Other back system features to look for on rucksacks are padded shoulder straps, lumbar pads, top tension straps and sternum straps. The design of the rucksack itself isn't as important as the back system. How many pockets and compartments you want is a personal choice. Note though, that detachable side pockets are useful if you are intending to use the pack for scrambling, climbing or skiing as well as walking, as fixed pockets can get in the way. Check too that a pack has the necessary attachment points on the outside for items such as sleeping mat, walking poles, ice axe or skis that you might want to carry.

In terms of size we would recommend selecting a pack that will carry all you need on the longest trips you are planning. It's easy to cinch a pack down if it is not full. It is not so simple to force extra gear into an over stuffed one. Such an over loaded pack will not carry properly either. With a good, properly fitting pack you can carry surprisingly heavy loads and venture far into the hills away from roads and towns. Its worth a little effort to make sure you choose a pack that will enable you to do this.

Backpack Choice


Its worth investing in a good backpack - you'll appreciate it at the end of a long day! We stock rucksacks from top manufacturers inlcuding Karrimor, Mountain Equipment, Lowe Alpine, Vaude, Salomon, The North Face, Vango, Mammut and Cerro Torre. A good backpack is not just comfortable to carry, but protects your gear, organises it and makes it easily accessible. A good harness system allows you to carry surprisingly heavy loads with ease.

Which rucksack you choose will depend on your intended use. Capacity will be your first guide. Whether you need a day sack of up to 40 litres for country rambles, or a full carrying system to contain all your gear for a week out in the wilds, requiring at least a 60 litre pack. The back system is very important. A simple, lightly padded harness is sufficient for a day sack, but for larger, heavier loads, a more sophisticated back system is essential to provide a stable load distribution. For climbing and rough terrain you will want a pack that hugs your back, but for days of trekking the priority may become a luxuriously padded hip belt!

Finally think about the features. Rucksack side pockets may be useful for carrying frequently used items, but for certain activities with a lot of arm movement (climbing, ski touring) they will get in the way. If the amount you carry varies considerably then compression straps to stabilise smaller loads may be essential. Think about the various features available and decide which are going to be necessary or beneficial for you.

Rucksack Features


Base compartments are a usefull feature for organising your gear. Perhaps more importantly, entry through the base of the rucksack makes that gear readily accessible. In most cases the base compartment is optional, with a zip out divider or variable draw cord closure.

Side Pockets: Your type of activity will determine whether or not these are useful (see above) Many sacks without side pockets can, when necessary, have them attached to the side compression as an optional extra. However they tend to sag more. In some cases on straight sides, wand pockets are located at the base. These are useful for locating tent poles, etc.

Rucksack Closure

The top of the rucksack is closed by a draw cord and in many cases, particularly on larger sacks, a lighter weight snow lock extension with its own draw cord completely seals in the contents before the lid is closed. The lid usually has an elasticised skirt for a better weatherproof closure and is secured by buckles to the front profile straps. These straps help support heavy loads from sagging and can be adjusted to bring down the lid when the sack is not completely full, they often extend under the base of the sack so that extra gear can be attached - a sleeping mat for example.

Rucksack Back Systems


Probably the most important part of your rucksack. A good harness will enable you to carry your gear with surprising ease and still be comfortable at the end of a long day. Small rucksacks are designed for light loads and therefore have a simple harness system. A waste belt and chest strap will improve stability and light padding of the shoulder straps and back give greater carrying comfort.

With larger rucksacks and heavier loads the majority of the weight is transferred to the stronger muscle groups around the pelvic girdle, reducing strain on the weaker back muscles and spine. To maintain stability, however,a proportion of the weight has to be carried through the shoulder harness - to hold the sack close to the back. The shoulder harness is usually curved so that it spreads the weight evenly over the shoulder area rather than causing pressure points. A variety of tensioning straps help stabilise the load further and relieve any pressure points while on the move. Top tensioning straps join the top of the rucksack frame to the shoulder harness and can be adjusted to pull the sack closer into the back for extra stability or, alternatively, when loosened will transfer more weight to the hips and increase ventilation across the back. Chest harnesses, usually height adjustable, are useful for maintaining the shoulder straps in a comfortable position and freeing up the shoulders for easy arm movement.

Finally, hip belt stabilisers join the body of the rucksack to the hip belt and can be adjusted to pull the rucksack firmly into the hips and reduce roll. With varying degrees of sophistication, the cut of the harness system and the profile of its padding have been anatomically thought out to provide maximum efficiency. Some rucksacks are available which have been specifically designed to suit the female form, with a shorter back length amongst other features.

Rucksack fit is of course, important. Without a good fit the other benefits of the back system will be redundant. To get round the fact that we all have different back lengths, many manufacturers make adjustable harness systems where either the shoulder harness or the hip belt can be raised or lowered to provide a totally personal fit. Alternatively, with fixed back lengths, a variety of sizes are sometimes available. N.B. Excessive adjustment to a small back size may make your rucksack less stable and out of balance.

Fitting a Rucksack Properly


First loosen the shoulder straps and all tensioning straps. Put the rucksack on and fasten the hip belt so that its upper edge sits comfortably over the top of your hip bones. Lastly, pull in the shoulder straps and tighten the tensioning straps.

This information is provided for general guidance only, and so if you are looking for specific and possibly more up-to-date advice on an item or range of walking or outdoor clothing, please do not hesitate to contact us at the Walk and Ramble online walking shop using the details below. We will be glad to help.

Click here for Walk and Ramble's walking shop's range of rucksacks and backpacks

Monday 28 January 2008

New Zealand Hiking Adventure

The best part about New Zealand is being adorned by incredible landscapes and an amazing natural beauty that can take any tourist by surprise. Tramping in local lingo is otherwise referred to as walking,trekking or hiking in other parts of the world. Tramping is a great way to witness New Zealand's striking beauty.

New Zealand's diverse terrain will have you spellbound ranging from greenbelt city areas to long beaches, coastal cliffs, grasslands, rainforests, farmlands, mountains and volcanic regions. It is any hiker's delight to be confronted by such a wide assortment of such inviting landscapes.

About 30% of hiking land is conservation land with access to the general public, protected under the umbrella of Department of Conservation (DOC). Most of this land is made up of forest parks, natural parks and other reserves.

Tracks are graded depending on their topography and level of difficulty. They can be classified as follows:

Path: Easy and well formed; Wheel chair access is allowed. Track is constructed to shoe standard (hiking boots not required). It is accessible to people of all ages and fitness levels

Walking track: Easy and well formed; The track is constructed to shoe standard. It is suitable for people of most ages and fitness levels.

Tramping track: It requires skill and experience. It is constructed to boot standard (hiking boots required). It is suitable for people of average physical fitness.

Route: It requires a high degree of skill, experience and route-finding ability. It is suitable for experienced and well equipped walkers.

(Track Definition Source:Lonely Planet - New Zealand)

Tramping tracks in New Zealand are several thousand kilometres long and are meticulously mapped. The Deparment of Conservation has put in a splendid effort over the years to establish a brilliant accommodation network for trampers in the form of huts and campsites which liberate the hikers from carrying along heavy sleeping tents and cooking equipment.

An affordable backcountry hut ticket system allows one access to this network. You can camp anywhere unless specifically barred from doing so through signage. Instances can be in the form of water catchments, sensitive habitats and private property.

One of the premier tramping tracks is the Great Walks. This can get crowded in peak tourist season due to hikers descending here from all parts of the world.

December and January see a spike in the tramping numbers as it is peak season. It is also vacation time for schools. This sport can be enjoyed anytime between October and March though the ideal weather is between January and March.

The winter season in NZ is between June and August. Hiking tracks at higher altitudes pose the risk of avalanches. It is best not to tramp in this period.

Good quality comfortable footwear greatly enhaces the tramping experience.

Keep your backpack light to reduce shoulder strain.

Carry wet weather gear.

Carry insect repellant as sandflies can be a problem in coastal areas.

Before you commence your walk, check whether the huts or camping sites you are staying in has cooking gear. If it is a no, do carry a stove available from camping shops.

For responsible tramping, it is important to keep in mind key factors such as wildlife conservation, cooking in public places, rubbish and human waste disposal.

The weather and the season are two crucial factors that contribute to the difficulty of a hiking track. Make sure you are armed with the latest map and description of the track you are hiking. If unsure, it is ideal to consult the Department of Conservation.

It is advisable to take a seasoned tramper along as she/he could have had previous exposure to the track you are hiking, especially in terms of the weather conditions.

The New Zealand weather is prone to change at short notice. Hence, make sure you contact the nearest Department of Conservation office to verify the latest weather and track conditions before starting your hike. If poor weather persists, it is best you cancel the hike.

Carry enough water in your backpack and drink regularly.
High energy food is ideal in case delays extend your hike period.

Ensure you carry clothing to protect from the cold, wind and the rain. Synthetic clothing dries quicker than cotton and wool.

Unexpected conditions can force you to camp overnight in the event of which it is wise to carry a survival bag or tent fly. You can buy survival bags from any camping store or any Department of Conservation field centre.

Transport is essential to travel around the various tramping tracks in both the North and South Island of New Zealand. A Jucy New Zealand car hire or a Jucy New Zealand campervan rental can take care of your transportaion needs leaving you and your family/friends to enjoy the unique NZ tramping experience.

Courtesy: Tim Alpe
CEO Jucy Rentals
http://www.jucy.co.nz
Email: tim-alpe@jucy.co.nz
For Jucy adventure activity in our New Zealand car rental or campervan

Choosing The Most Suitable Duck Hunting Gun

In order to choose the most suitable duck hunting gun hunters must take many aspects into consideration like: functionality, durability, technology and of course, price. In this article we will make brief reviews about 5 guns recommended for duck hunting, we will order them by popularity.

The most popular duck hunting gun is the Remington 870 Pump Shotgun. The reason why this gun is so popular among hunting enthusiasts all over the world is because its ability to withstand some of the most harsh weather conditions. This weapon is considered to be the workhorse of the shotguns compartment. We will offer you specifications about one of the 870 models available on the market, the 870 Wingmaster:

Designation: Model 870 Wingmaster
Type: Autoloading Shotgun
Manufacturer: Remington -
USA
Country of Origin:
United States
Operation: Autoloading Shotgun
Caliber: 12 / 16 / 20 gauge
Service Year: 1950
Weight (Empty): 7 lbs (3.2 kg)
Magazine: 5-Round Tubular Magazine

Second place: the Beretta 391 Shotgun which is one of the most reliable shotguns available on the market; it cycles very fast making it very recommended for duck hunting. All Beretta's gas operated semi-automatic shotguns are based on the same action, the 391 model. Built in a wide variety of variations, including one that handles the blonky 12 gauge 3.5" magnum shells, this action is remarkably versatile. Add to this the good looks and the reliability that Beretta weapons are famous for, you know have the almost perfect choice. We will offer you specifications about one of the 391 models available on the market, the AL 391:

Distributor: Beretta
Model:
AL 391
Operation: Gas Operated Autoloader
Gauge: 12 or 20
Barrel Length: 24. 26. 28, 30, 32 in.
Overall Length: 51 in. (28-inch barrel)
Weight: 5.9 pounds (20 gauge); 7.8 (12 gauge Xtrema2
Safety: Crossbolt
Sights: Vent rib with TruGlo
Stock: Walnut, synthetic, or X-tra Wood
Length of Pull: 14.7 inches
Magazine Capacity: 2 (plugged), 3 (unplugged) rounds
Finish: Blued, matte black, camo metal; black, camo, semigloss, oil stock

Third place: the Browning Citori Shotgun, one of the most beautiful shotguns out there. This gun swings like no other gun can and based on what we have read about it but also practiced around with, is a wise choice for duck hunting the next year. If you have the possibility give it a try, we assure you that you won't regret. We will offer you specifications about one of the Browning Citori models, the XT Trap:

Model: Citori XT Trap with Adjustable Comb
Gauge: 12
Barrel Length: 32"
Nominal Overall Length: 49"
Nominal Length of Pull: 14 3/8"
Nominal Drop at Comb: 1 11/16"
Nominal Drop at Heel: 1 15/16"Nominal Weight: 8lbs. 13 oz.
Chokes Included: Improved Modified, Full
Chamber Size: 2 3/4"
Rib Width: 1/4 - 3/8" Tapered
Wood Finish: Gloss Finish
Stock / Grip: Walnut
Additional Description: Adjustable Comb, Two Full Chokes

Fourth place: the Benelli Super Black Eagle II, according to Benelli the all new trademarked Comforttech system reduces recoil up to 48% better than other competitive systems. The Super Black Eagle II model uses the proven Benelli Inertia Driven bolt mechanism that allows the weapon to shoot 2 ¾", 3" and even 3½" magnum ammunition without adjustments. In addition, the Super Black Eagle II incorporates some basic improvements like a drilled and tapped receiver. We will offer you specifications about the standard Super Black Eagle II model:

Mechanics: Inertial semi-automatic Benelli with variable geometry trigger release unit
Gauge: 12
Receiver Finish: Ergal, black anodised
Stock and Fore-End: Selected walnut
Stock Length Trigger Measured / Deviation: 360mm / rh and lh adjustable
Drop At Heel: 55 mm adjustable to 50, 60 and 64 on request
Drop At Comb: 36,5 mm
Recoil Pad: Rubber
Magazine Capacity: 3 Magnum cartr., 4 standard cartr., with 2-rounds plug on request
Safety: Larger, transversal with red " arm ready for shooting " signal
Weight: 3,000 gr approx

Last place: the Browning BPS Stalker which gets rid of those annoying spent shells in a way that make sense to all respectable water fowlers. This is a rugged machine created to shoot at any visible waterfowl. Some of the features of this shotgun include: receiver, forged and machined steel, barrel - ventilated rib, dual steel action bars, matte black finish and others as well. We will offer you specifications about the regular BPS Stalker:

Model: BPS Stalker
Gauge: 12
Magazine Capacity: 4
Barrel Length: 28"
Nominal Overall Length: 49 ¼"
Nominal Length of Pull: 14 ¼"
Nominal Drop at Comb: 1 ½"
Nominal Drop at Heel: 2 ½"
Nominal Weight: 8 lbs. 5 oz.
Chokes Included: Full, modified, improved cylinder
Chamber Size: 3 ½"
Wood Finish: Matte Black
Stock/Grip: Composite

We have offered you 5 weapon models that are recommended by both amateur and professional hunters all around the world. The choice is up to you, with a little bit of research you can find the most suitable duck hunting gun for you.

Summary: Choosing the proper duck hunting gun is a vital aspect for this particular type of hunting. In this article we offer you 5 models that are recommended for duck hunts by experienced hunters.

Friday 18 January 2008

How To Play The Classic Game of Darts - 501

One of the most popular darts games is 501. There are many variations; 301, 601 etc. But 501 is the game most commonly played in competitions at all levels; from pub darts to professional.

The rules are fairly straightforward but, as with all darts games it requires a great deal of skill and practice to win.

The Aim of the Game:

After determining which player will throw first (there are many ways of doing this; tossing a coin, 'nearest to the bull' etc.), each player starts with a score of 501 and players take turns to throw 3 darts at the dart board. Each dart is scored by the number in which it lands on the dart board. The first player to reach a score of exactly zero by subtracting the sum of three darts from their current score wins.

After determining which player will throw first (there are many ways of doing this; tossing a coin, 'nearest to the bull' etc.), each player starts with a score of 501 and players take turns to throw 3 darts at the dart board. Each dart is scored by the number in which it lands on the dart board. The first player to reach a score of exactly zero by subtracting the sum of three darts from their current score wins.

Starting the Game:

There are two ways of starting a game; the most common is straight-in - in this case the combined score of the first 3 darts is subtracted from 501. The other method is double-in; in this case none of the scores count until the player has hit a double (the outer ring of the dart board).

Scoring:

After each round, the total score obtained with three darts is written on the scoreboard alongside the remaining score once this has been deducted (or if the rules allow the players can use and electronic scoreboard). The largest score possible with a single darts is 60 (treble 20 - the trebles are located on the inner ring on the dart board). The maximum score attainable with 3 darts is 180 (3 x treble 20). The lowest number of darts with which it is possible to finish a game of 501 is 9 (180, 180 and 141 to finish).

After each round, the total score obtained with three darts is written on the scoreboard alongside the remaining score once this has been deducted (or if the rules allow the players can use and electronic scoreboard). The largest score possible with a single darts is 60 (treble 20 - the trebles are located on the inner ring on the dart board). The maximum score attainable with 3 darts is 180 (3 x treble 20). The lowest number of darts with which it is possible to finish a game of 501 is 9 (180, 180 and 141 to finish).

Finishing:

In order to finish the game a player must reach a score of exactly zero and hit a double to do so. This means that once a player gets down to 170 (the maximum finish possible hitting a double with the last dart - 2 x treble 20, 50 or bulls eye) or lower they need to start thinking about how they want to finish. Many players like to try and leave their favourite double.

In order to finish the game a player must reach a score of exactly zero and hit a double to do so. This means that once a player gets down to 170 (the maximum finish possible hitting a double with the last dart - 2 x treble 20, 50 or bulls eye) or lower they need to start thinking about how they want to finish. Many players like to try and leave their favourite double.

One added complication is that if the player scores more than they have left or leaves 1 they are said to have busted and their score reverts to whatever it was before they took that throw.

Take a look at my website for details of the top players favourite finishes for some ideas of how to finish.

Other things to consider:

If one or more darts fall out or bounce out of the dart board no score is recorded for those darts. One way of reducing the likelihood of this is to choose your dart flights carefully and perhaps add some dart flight protectors.

Gerald Peters

http://www.thedartsshop.co.uk

Saturday 12 January 2008

Sports Betting Champ System Review

Did you know that you can use sports betting system to win on your sports bet easily?
Sports betting champ system is one of the best betting system. The creator is John Morrison. He has a PhD Degree in Statistical, John is Sport enthusiast and He also like Sport betting, over last 5 year he has spent numerable hours in extensive research of sporting database in order to device an infallible sport betting system.


Finally, John has discovered a spectacular sport betting system that he has used to produce an astonishing 97% winning rate on all of his sport bets, it call Sport-betting-champ. This system is unique, it provide opportunity to every one for making easy money.


Sports betting champ system is great and extremely easy to use. It took only a few hours to take the information that he gave and set up your entirely schedule of betting for the year. For the beginning you can placing small bets at first to see the result, after wining everyone of his picked games, then you can raise your bets and start making the large profits John had mentioned.


In this system, you do not need to be good at math or need to know anything about statistics to apply from sports betting champ system. In fact, you don't even have to know anything about basketball or baseball to become one of the most accurate and profitable bettors in the world.


Sport Betting Champ is the consistent wining for the NBA (Basketball) and MBL (Baseball), winning rate are 97%, its also consistent success for NFL (Football) system. The betting system does not bank on chances or luck. It is purely based on scientific research and calculations. By using John's simple statistical formula you can make a very successful betting living from these two sports. If you apply principles that the system is going to teach you properly, there is no way that you will not make money


90% of people not only don't make a profit on the sports bets, but don't even win back their stakes? Don't be one of them. You can learn from John Morrison's experience, instead of trying for years to come up with a successful sports betting strategy by yourself. The cost price to sign up to his website of $197 is a small price to pay for the amount of money the website will help you earn.


For more information about the revolutionary Sports Betting System visit: Sports-Betting-Champ.com or Sports Betting Champ System Review


NASCAR's Clint Bowyer - From boy to Superstar

Clint Bowyer, the 26 year old savvy racer from Emporia, Kansas, started racing in motocross at the young age of five. He was a good on two wheels but soon discovered that he was even better on four wheels after his grandfather brought him to a dirt track in Humboldt, Kansas. His father, Chris Bowyer, wasn't very happy with his second son's decision at first because the family had already invested a lot of time and money into motorcycles and the young Clint Bowyer had shown a lot of potential. His older brother, Andy Bowyer, was racing motocross nationally. Eventually, Chris Bowyer supported his young son because of his enthusiasm. His mother lays claim that they weren't in it to make him a NASCAR star but rather they did it because they enjoyed it as a family. After awhile, the whole family turned to four wheels and Chris even set up a shop in his storage lot near his towing company in Emporia. Even until this day, his parents and their dog follow the Cup circuit in a motor home to show their support to Bowyer and it has paid off.


Because Bowyer's father had many drivers for customers, he would hang around race shops to try and pick their brains. By the time he was 15, he was driving short-bed Chevy pickup that he had put together with the spare parts from his father's storage lot. He was also working at a Goodyear shop in middle school to pick up the tools of the trade. From there, he was taught what made a person successful with their cars.


Bowyer is a fierce competitor and the markings of a winner was clear from the get go. He won and liked it. When he's on the race track, he's in it to win the trophy. Since racing at the age of five, Bowyer has gone on to achieve over 200 wins and countless championships throughout the years. He broke into the street stocks scene in 1996 at age 17 during the Thunderhill Speedway in Mayetta, Kansas. He counts that as one of his most memorable races because an angry competitor had chased a flagman into a bathroom for 45 minutes and threatened to crush the winner, only to then realize that the winner was 17 years old. Dick Ross, who was tuning up Bowyer's engine that night, realized that Bowyer was made out of special material when Bowyer managed to guide home a 50,000-pound fire truck, a 6-foot towing chain during a 10 mile stretch of two lane highway in central Kansas without getting a scratch on the vehicle.


4 years later, Bowyer went back to the Thunderhill Speedway and won the 2000 Modified championship and finished second in the Modified points at Lakeside Speedway. He continued to get 18 more wins, 32 top fives in 40 starts en route to the 2001 Modified Championships at Lakeside Speedway and Heartland Park. After that he was made the 2002 NASCAR Weekly Racing Series Midwest Champion after another Modified Championship at Lakeside Speedway and a Late Model crown at 1-70 Speedway in Odessa. Bowyer has gone on to win a great many more championships when he began running for the NASCAR Busch Series in 2004.


His parents are still in awe at how much their son has achieved and they are still amazed when fans congratulate them. Although Bowyer now resides in North Carolina, he still enjoys going back home where people still remember him as Clint and not the NASCAR star. And like any Kansas native, he believes that the best barbecues can't beat Kansas City's barbecue.

Friday 11 January 2008

Boating Apparel - Funny T-Shirts

So, you're out on the water with your buddies when one of them squints, trying to read your T-shirt. It says, "How to keep a retard busy: read the back." Your friend walks around to your back and reads the other side, "How to keep a retard busy: read the back." Your friend looks stumped, but still walks around to read the front of your T-shirt again and again and again By now you can imagine everyone cracking up at your one still quite confused friend. A funny tee shirt can really make for good times out on the water because not only do they show off your true personality; they create a friendly environment to make everyone more comfortable.

What is a good boat trip without a few jokes and a few laughs? Because having fun on the water means having a few jokes up your sleeve, just think of your funny T-shirt as a joke you wear all day long! Jokes are the central part of a good boat party and with a tee shirt that does the joking for you; you can have even more fun on the water. Wear a funny T-shirt on the water and you will see.

So, what qualifies as a funny T-shirt for your lake boating? This is the debatable factor that makes wearing something you think is funny on your back actually funny. While you may think it's normal your friends may crack up at it. What's even funnier is if you think it's the funniest slogan/ logo you have ever seen, but your friends don't quite get it.

Lake Trash has a wide selection of boating apparel right on their site and whether you want a T-shirt that screams "Your boat sucks!" or one that directs, "Drink like a fish," you can find a funny T-shirt there. Lake Trash has men's T-shirts, women's T-shirts and everything in between. Lake Trash best exemplifies the true spirit and humor of boating. Since we know boaters and their preferences we also know their T-shirt choices. Check out our selection today!

Funny T-shirts help bring raise the comfort level on the boat, while providing plenty of laughs for everyone.

Wednesday 2 January 2008

Lords of Dogtown: The real story of the Z-Boys

The site of the former Pacific Ocean Park in the beach district on the Venice and Santa Monica border is something of a sacred legend within the skateboarding and surfing community. The area, which is nicknamed Dogtown, was immortalised in the 2001 skateboarding documentary, Dogtown and Z-Boys, and later in the 2005 feature film, Lords of Dogtown, which was based on the characters and events introduced in Dogtown and Z-Boys.

Dogtown and Z-Boys, directed by Stacy Peralta (himself a member of the original Z-Boys) and narrated by Hollywood star Sean Penn, tells the history of skateboarding. The documentary charts the story of a group of teenage surfer/skateboarders in Santa Monica, known as the Z-Boys, and their influence on the history of skateboarding (and to a lesser extent surfing) culture, using a mix of film of the Z-Boys shot in the 1970s and more recently conducted interviews.

The aerial and sliding skate moves that the Z-Boys invented were the basis for the aerial skateboarding and surfing still popular today. These were just twelve ordinary teenagers who hung out in the Santa Monica neighbourhood of Dogtown who just wanted to surf and skate. They could never have known that they would start a revolution by turning what was a recreational past-time into an extreme sport.

Considered the most influential skateboard team in history, the Z-Boy movement continues to this day as an expression of performance, innovation and style.

Known officially as the Zephyr Skateboard Team, the Z-Boys began when they transferred their surf skills to drain pipes and empty swimming pools with stunning results. Their acrobatic maneuvers inspired generations of teens to join the skateboarding frenzy and catapulted them to fame and fortune; the majority of the original Z-Boys went on to compete professionally. Bob "Bullet" Biniak retired from skating in 1980, but went on to play golf professionally, while the only female member of the Z-Boys, Peggy Oki, rejected skating in favour of surfing, and has competed in surf contests all over the world. Jim Muir and Tony Alva both rejected deals from major skate companies to set up on their own, and were the first skateboarders to ever do so.

In 2005, Stacy Peralta wrote the screenplay for Lords of Dogtown, which dramatically retold the Dogtown days. Starring Heath Ledger and Rebecca De Mornay, and featuring a cameo from perhaps the world's most famous modern day skateboarder Tony Hawk, Lords of Dogtown focused more on the relationships between the Z-Boys, looking at their friendships, how they coped with fame, and how they grew more and more competitive towards one another. It also focused heavily on the tragic loss of Z-Boy associate Sid, who lost a battle against brain cancer.

Skateboarders or surfers keen to make a pilgrimage to the legendary and iconic Dogtown for themsleves can find a hotel in Santa Monica for their accomodation needs, and thankfully, the area has improved a lot since the Dogtown days.

The story of the Dogtown and Z-Boys is an inspiring tale of determination, rebellion, and friendship, and even those who have no interest in skateboarding or surfing, and been won over by this fascinating little piece of American sub-culture.