tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-53971662748887697212024-03-12T18:09:19.508-07:00Doing ThingsAdventure cyclist, climber, archaeologist, designer, artist, strategist. Intensely curious, I explore, do and create. It's sort of a compulsion. I live for open ended questions and opportunities to go fast and deep in the pursuit of understanding and acquisition of knowledge and new skills.Unknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger139125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5397166274888769721.post-57662977310245486442017-08-28T16:34:00.004-07:002017-09-07T20:18:17.253-07:00Barnhart Cider Werks<p><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-DZT8UUVcQ24/WaSoR8L7aDI/AAAAAAAAHoI/iXIV8XTN7IA2674F96B-RQ5urA7YYOiLwCHMYCw/%255BUNSET%255D" alt=""></p>
<p>I'd say I've been experimenting with cider making but it sounds so much better to call it a micro cider brewery, if that's the right word. So, Barnhart Cider Werks it shall be. Yes, Werks, because my last name is Prussian and it's as good an excuse as any and I think it'll make a nice label and home brew sounds weird to my sous chef ears. ...but yes, it's home brew cider. </p>
<p>I've payed with cider making a few times over the years, it's interesting but I never took it too seriously. I also didn't bother to read enough and lay hands on the appropriate things to make a respectable batch but a few(5 or 6) months ago I worked with a cideridt turned EMT and pestered him for most of an ambulance shift about how to make cider at home. He was frustrated at my relentless questioning. Now I think that was mainly because it's easy. Very easy if you observe lab cleanliness standards. </p>
<p>The total cost for the first run was well under $20 to make a gallon of cider, roughly 5 750ml bottles. When you consider airlocks, the glass jug, and flip tops bottles can all be reused the investment drops below $1 per 750ml bottle. That's tough to beat. </p>
<p><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-scG8_CaPr-g/Wa4mvaQs59I/AAAAAAAAHpE/i1d9YEbwxC0ezYFccSm5RKt-k92YC_-4gCHMYCw/%255BUNSET%255D" alt=""><br></p>
<p>I ordered my Saison yeast from Amazon. It calls for 1g per gallon. I sucessfully used a half teaspoon of dry yeast for a gallon batch. Didn't even mix it with water or wake it up. I'm sure that's a good idea but I've got repeat batches that demonstrate all you need to do is sterilize the bottle before opening, wash your hands and prep area before you touch anything and just add the dry yeast to the juice with a measuring spoon. Afterward go ahead and cap the bottle with your airlock and wait. <br></p>
<p>It's that easy. </p>
<p>Within an hour or so it'll be <a href="https://youtu.be/jEWb_KIA4o0">bubbling away.</a></p>
<p>Your next step is to wait until the cider stops bubbling and clears. That'll take about two weeks but varies with temperature, yeast and sugar content of your juice. </p><p>I've got new flip top bottles coming in the mail. That bumps the equipment budget up $10 but it's six bottles that can be used over and over. I'll save the bottling for another post. </p>
<p></p>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5397166274888769721.post-59950322683574269852017-08-09T09:58:00.001-07:002017-08-16T05:38:27.813-07:00Assembling the smithy <p>I say assemble because it's early, very early in the process but I'm determined to resurrect the family tradition again in a more formal way than I've kept it alive since moving to San Francisco. There's something appropriate about rebuilding in PA both with respect to history and circumstance. <p></p></p><p><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-LdJWLid2Yzg/WYs-LkkmImI/AAAAAAAAGsg/9oZN_bE8vTon-BWkUDWTUiiCr5dnpx7iACHMYCw/%255BUNSET%255D" alt=""><br></p><p>So far I've got my anvil, hammers and several small torches. Channel locks will have to do for tongs right now and I still need to scrounge some logs. There's a nice little space out back under an eve on our very neglected garage/cottage. I have to start somewhere and it seems like there's a blacksmiths cooking photo essay or cookbook in there somewhere. </p><p>I'm mostly making a point to put this out in the world so it's harder for me to not do it but im committed to making some version of Butler Forge emerge anew. </p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5397166274888769721.post-55148621328765252522017-08-04T20:23:00.001-07:002017-08-23T10:34:14.424-07:00Sous chef redux <p><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-d_QakU14Hew/WYU5ZOXWCmI/AAAAAAAAGsA/DOxu8YLm2wwQ8apEHtDgZ33RCAsjCYBwACHMYCw/%255BUNSET%255D" alt="">When we arrived in Philadelphia I wasn't sure what I was going to do. Just that I wasn't going to work in EMS as a full time first responder anymore. I don't think I'll ever give up my role as a Coast Guard Auxiliary officer but EMS life is brutal and not exactly family friendly. It's times like these that have historically taken me back to the restaurant world. <p></p></p><p>So I asked around, knocked on some doors and found myself in chef Owen Lee's kitchen in the Philadelphia suburbs. I'm learning things, remembering things and getting to explore meditaranian food, something familiar but not an area of expertise for me. Luckily, I love the food! </p><p>I'm not sure where this will go but it's a great place to land while I sort out our new home base. </p><p>I'll try to post a few recipes here and there to share some of what I'm learning and why I keep going back to chef work. </p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5397166274888769721.post-70842052283101361852017-06-29T09:09:00.006-07:002017-07-11T13:16:13.703-07:00The fleet moves to Philadelphia ...and lessons about moving with too many bicycles.
<br />
I recently relocated to Philadelphia with, and to be closer to, family. Admittedly attached to my velo fleet, I gave thought to, but ultimately moved with all but a couple of them.<br />
I had some intention of letting this vintage Schwinn go but a certain little girl has grown up since our ride to China camp and has fallen for the old machine. It's outlasted so many of its peers, it may just be pedaling around for decades to come.<br />
<img alt="" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-7T5dBA8Fdmk/WVUmQ1kt-5I/AAAAAAAAGp8/5yjIP0NhIE4Nm01MjkkTCqUlo6XtjEgmQCHMYCw/%255BUNSET%255D" /><br />
While the movers were afraid to damage expensive looking carbon fiber parts with Italian names, they weren't afraid to push, move and otherwise maladjust the group on nearly every bike. I suspect it was out of frustration with packing a dozen bicycles.<br />
<img alt="" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-5GjMpGvJHsM/WVU60LUD56I/AAAAAAAAGqQ/SqqHNg9y300I9nKO-HksQ6H9Vekjtbk7QCHMYCw/%255BUNSET%255D" /><br />
My beloved CAAD 8 Campignolo/Shimano "bike you can't build" was the first back in order. I haven't gotten it out on the questionable Philadelphia streets yet but I can tell it's lonely up there on the wall looking like art...<br />
<img alt="" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-eBZMfw38kGU/WVU6s8Yz66I/AAAAAAAAGqM/Sya1kRduweQGdxemegXAMNcD8O43y3xawCHMYCw/%255BUNSET%255D" />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5397166274888769721.post-91144607899059701212017-06-14T19:53:00.003-07:002017-08-23T10:34:54.201-07:00Asmat trophy skull project <p><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-qr3F3yYNTR8/WUH2G0-n_bI/AAAAAAAAGps/J8wNz1o9uKctC7MuT5wCkA7i8GFSvyhtwCHMYCw/%255BUNSET%255D" alt="">
</p>
<p>What's that, you ask? It's an Asmat trophy skull in the De Young museum Pacific island collection. There are several tribes in the Pacific Rim that keep trophy skulls. Ancestor skulls to be exact. What's the project? Funny you should ask. </p><p>As an anthropology student and field archaeologist this sort of thing fascinates me. Having seen these in museums from Hawaii to D.C. I've been keen to know about them and quietly thought it'd be cool to own one. That poses a problem here and there. Things like, "How did you convince your family to let you keep a human skull in the house?" Or "Wow that thing must have cost a fortune!" and the perennial, "Is that even legal?" are all valid concerns. </p><p>So I decided I should just build one myself from a realistic skull replica, turkey feathers, raffia and other things similar to what Asmat skulls are adorned with. I mean, if the zoo wouldn't keep their cassowaries under such close watch, I'd surely use those feathers but ultimately I'm one of maybe half a dozen people I know globally (surely there are others?) who even know what one of these things is let alone what feathers it should have or even be able to tell the difference between cassowary and turkey feathers. </p><p>So, with this cache of feathers gathered from our place in California, the project begins. Updates to follow. ...maybe there's an Asmat skull cottage industry waiting to emerge. </p><p><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-BiNXca8nqkI/WVVJLXg9IPI/AAAAAAAAGqg/6cwhjZeQbAI6M7kiEro2Wi39xYSp5cJbACHMYCw/%255BUNSET%255D" alt=""><br></p>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5397166274888769721.post-62083385354307142652016-08-07T20:23:00.001-07:002016-08-07T20:24:44.026-07:00Triumphant!Just recently I scored a project Triumph! So excited. My first bike, too many years ago, was a Triumph Bonneville. It was a trial. Always breaking down, reliably unreliable but I loved that bike and have lamented selling it since the day I let it go. <div><br></div><div>My new project is a 2005 Daytona 955i. A great bike with only 5000 miles on the clock. It's in need of a lot of love but mechanically whole. It'll be a great project that'll change the shape and goals of my VFR.</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAq1Ijr8PGJyHcClSc33doB_aGpiRRQDvWrJMtqovIDlJgHqxJ4C8dltpAChgkl-BuUrpsYUWLyYNHau5zCOxzA26ioMX2Tz-1aF_KVrqlvJqp6zLA3t4AGd2Wh0FBI3lGBwqUs_X-wRI/s640/blogger-image-1377722529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAq1Ijr8PGJyHcClSc33doB_aGpiRRQDvWrJMtqovIDlJgHqxJ4C8dltpAChgkl-BuUrpsYUWLyYNHau5zCOxzA26ioMX2Tz-1aF_KVrqlvJqp6zLA3t4AGd2Wh0FBI3lGBwqUs_X-wRI/s640/blogger-image-1377722529.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDHT5ihNKz4mOThIcRw7a7u_e25rUoksJucBpEaqHGy7QujuujRtyj1slBgHX3biAAuvRVBm2yC_kISd944V6tamnZTu6L8-jraTxx8oVnXDWSmrbblAb5fabKoLmq9pmHRB1n5Y3zooM/s640/blogger-image-1402314006.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDHT5ihNKz4mOThIcRw7a7u_e25rUoksJucBpEaqHGy7QujuujRtyj1slBgHX3biAAuvRVBm2yC_kISd944V6tamnZTu6L8-jraTxx8oVnXDWSmrbblAb5fabKoLmq9pmHRB1n5Y3zooM/s640/blogger-image-1402314006.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigD6E6hriaFii_7M3_zJ2Uddhs52QvQ8gAM2iPMOqYvN3OgNLS8J8evn8IQfI-MHXQvhXq6-XJJblmSk1s8Ph5ko0hWTHhQgk-LPnZ2t7009smSlCDdDHkZBfRLT7GefLVLLzJlXKo9MU/s640/blogger-image-2074659948.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigD6E6hriaFii_7M3_zJ2Uddhs52QvQ8gAM2iPMOqYvN3OgNLS8J8evn8IQfI-MHXQvhXq6-XJJblmSk1s8Ph5ko0hWTHhQgk-LPnZ2t7009smSlCDdDHkZBfRLT7GefLVLLzJlXKo9MU/s640/blogger-image-2074659948.jpg"></a></div><br></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5397166274888769721.post-28147820845611184042016-06-12T20:39:00.001-07:002016-07-01T10:28:53.265-07:00Updating a VFR 700I laid hands on a project VFR700 about a year ago. It wasn't and still isn't quite all there but it's mechanically sound and the obvious issues at this point are cosmetic. <div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ5jbtI6Pa6D2Dz2NBP5_rCnsJ8uqg-x0uVyJhWdkwbmmPCTd9VhR_kgtcOx2H18x5QOwCarlfl4pVX84bGAEwcOOskCJ2a3ooGOJnzXd-8EdeRAUULxIqdJv-Yc1IXlQF_jBI8_TqQD4/s640/blogger-image-986481081.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ5jbtI6Pa6D2Dz2NBP5_rCnsJ8uqg-x0uVyJhWdkwbmmPCTd9VhR_kgtcOx2H18x5QOwCarlfl4pVX84bGAEwcOOskCJ2a3ooGOJnzXd-8EdeRAUULxIqdJv-Yc1IXlQF_jBI8_TqQD4/s640/blogger-image-986481081.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div>These iconic V4s were great bikes in the late 80s, the 700 winning bike of the year in spite of being 50cc's smaller than its Canadian and European cousins. Even pushing 80K miles mine has plenty of snap in the throttle. </div><div><br></div><div>OEM fairings are both rare and costly for these machines with new manufacture after market fairings being affordable but still on the costly side. As irony would have it fairings for the venerable race version, the much sought after RC30, are not only readily available but fall in the inexspensive cataegory. </div><div><br></div><div>With effort it's possible to turn something like my VFR into something like Geof Infield's VFR. </div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW0X_szWx0mtOg_hquckQsdjsaD9Nm5jGCTN9oNDXwGS9b1laX1DbecDumez8wy4iWEUGXNEq7dudb0Qbxblxv04vm90veh8PxlUTloLg0AdtUwk_Ud5gDgQxf5zhwMkbrxBlEx2NHkE8/s640/blogger-image--621144334.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW0X_szWx0mtOg_hquckQsdjsaD9Nm5jGCTN9oNDXwGS9b1laX1DbecDumez8wy4iWEUGXNEq7dudb0Qbxblxv04vm90veh8PxlUTloLg0AdtUwk_Ud5gDgQxf5zhwMkbrxBlEx2NHkE8/s640/blogger-image--621144334.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div>I've already done some small things, making mechanical repairs, changing mirrors, and updating turn signals. It'll be no simple task but I'm looking forward to putting some new life in this old machine. A V4 just has soul, a sound and feel inline engines don't have and grace at higher RPMs where V-twins rattle things apart. </div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><br></div><div><br></div><div><br></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5397166274888769721.post-30372890045623691122015-06-29T16:10:00.001-07:002015-09-08T15:31:04.172-07:00Dog's head hammer<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghUxMQjd_NpNpcIdmtq2BwCOcbXBlWx3Vh7P6PhVAokAl6yvT5JEgLYfa8kZsjbqt__Bqb18RvCPsnt7AfIgRY2d87zJuxigxczfUnMy6HzklzmoPLK2xURAdXmaq9_3pdt6OhkxgtywY/s640/blogger-image--1846421752.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghUxMQjd_NpNpcIdmtq2BwCOcbXBlWx3Vh7P6PhVAokAl6yvT5JEgLYfa8kZsjbqt__Bqb18RvCPsnt7AfIgRY2d87zJuxigxczfUnMy6HzklzmoPLK2xURAdXmaq9_3pdt6OhkxgtywY/s640/blogger-image--1846421752.jpg"></a></div><br></div>There is a style of hammer typically associated with metal smithing, more often blacksmithing and within that, working with blades of one kind or another. Regionally it's often associated with Scandinavia and Japan. Known variously as a dog's head, cutler's and sawmaker's hammers, they all exhibit a weight forward design, usually having only one striking face. As a historically trained blacksmith I have encountered and used them but had for the most part forgotten about them until recent conversations jarred my fractured memory. <div><br></div><div>In the forges of my youth we used mainly straight or ball peens as well as larger sledges. When I lived in Japan I saw some used in the shops I visited but again the majority of hammers were straight, ball and sledge. A recent visit to James Austin's forge in Oakland got my head wrapping back around iron, coupled with a move to East Bay it was kind of a mental homecoming. </div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiH_KdJDcOkmQrcF7tv-5k0v-0dkYS_Bae-E_HuIQZGKxVpE1r5Wp7pH6cPpuDcH9qSLczOErnRQJv_HfqNggoKJQ4GFjg36b_qpi2ACgZHbswqpb4cg0WOExbr4oY1-ZSWI9QgvKCX20Q/s640/blogger-image--1843877487.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiH_KdJDcOkmQrcF7tv-5k0v-0dkYS_Bae-E_HuIQZGKxVpE1r5Wp7pH6cPpuDcH9qSLczOErnRQJv_HfqNggoKJQ4GFjg36b_qpi2ACgZHbswqpb4cg0WOExbr4oY1-ZSWI9QgvKCX20Q/s640/blogger-image--1843877487.jpg"></a></div>To that, I've been dusting off some tools and memories and thought I might post about an old dog's head I layed hands on. It came from Michigan, north of where I grew up, and was found in a log house built in the 1880s. By style, location and time of construction of house its associated with my educated guess is the hammer pre-dates the house. It's very clearly hand made and hafted with a hand shaved handle with wedges we would expect from a smithy. Based on Scandinavian settlement patterns in Michigan and the time period we know the hammer was there, it makes sense to have found it.</div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi670_162dtIMq_o7x54pUCe44hQy5lJTiqfOoXVrvhunv5o7XAgssElIKzoOdZaoMzLZ6vNXv0AnxcWMPx-4yBBFN9YPYj1inl1EsPeZfcw2kiK2-P2g6HLKpxHIx3H6xzzuTItz2RVvA/s640/blogger-image-1927677818.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi670_162dtIMq_o7x54pUCe44hQy5lJTiqfOoXVrvhunv5o7XAgssElIKzoOdZaoMzLZ6vNXv0AnxcWMPx-4yBBFN9YPYj1inl1EsPeZfcw2kiK2-P2g6HLKpxHIx3H6xzzuTItz2RVvA/s640/blogger-image-1927677818.jpg"></a></div></div><div>It could use some help, cleaning up anyway but in spite of looking rough can be used as is. There are no clear brand markings but there are what appear to be letters, "XhB" or maybe "XRB" on one side of the head. </div><div><br></div><div>This type of hammer could very likely have been used to make and maintain crosscut saws of the type introduced into the Michigan logging industry in the 1870's and later and I'd say that's the likely history of this one, especially considering it was found in a log house. </div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC87IDMpzf9anV4sAcpujGKLzWdaCYIi8jLd8XJ1LD4PTN012cddVBwiPNe_XsoRRSqaAuiOeT6hLSNnX0_jj6Rr5eNe_vy7VMfCF3vSlTOK4aL3DGY9c9zy5KVQM89oPEznGMnt605s0/s640/blogger-image--1684293441.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC87IDMpzf9anV4sAcpujGKLzWdaCYIi8jLd8XJ1LD4PTN012cddVBwiPNe_XsoRRSqaAuiOeT6hLSNnX0_jj6Rr5eNe_vy7VMfCF3vSlTOK4aL3DGY9c9zy5KVQM89oPEznGMnt605s0/s640/blogger-image--1684293441.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div>It's future will be as part of my forge tooling. Someone put a lot of time and effort into making it and clearly valued it enough to mark it so it would find its way back to them if lost. The least I can do is put it back to work. </div><div><br></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5397166274888769721.post-32859407030491372892015-06-27T03:22:00.001-07:002016-04-23T23:22:57.622-07:00Bianchi Sport SS reinvented<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVxbxpuopyb2m4TC50_SGQ0xK1Os1HEmpLkkMjjvbmvFKU_KQZfRon1hLM4bvdR338QO2uRLUD_948ocYnJ76jtcSBLLqGQ_Sc1EvqnfMJhkyieRFLhqi_lZJhyphenhyphenE9mOIT8wQw5dRUaGes/s640/blogger-image-1729478068.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVxbxpuopyb2m4TC50_SGQ0xK1Os1HEmpLkkMjjvbmvFKU_KQZfRon1hLM4bvdR338QO2uRLUD_948ocYnJ76jtcSBLLqGQ_Sc1EvqnfMJhkyieRFLhqi_lZJhyphenhyphenE9mOIT8wQw5dRUaGes/s640/blogger-image-1729478068.jpg"></a></div>The Bianchi Sport I worked over a few years back(similar to the Eco Pista pictured above) turned out to be a great bike. It saw a lot of Nor Cal and even made it into a Blackburn video. While not one of the legendary Bianchi marks, it really is a great riding bike and it is my Bianchi regardless. Alas it suffered a setback when I took an off road shortcut and trashed the wheels beyond repair during the filming of that same Blackburn video. <div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXRmXDJkuaZPDyDKCBL3yaDY0hX83G1CjE_4SW5RBbWN4mIkxqzeQmxFrHiBLbg_bgeng-XJ2d5SgfVJQBZlvua2viv6oTKjSyyfkEyumQVQ8GnRTuk70FbeHDTlhZqxElX5O6pbk-Sf4/s640/blogger-image--476542514.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXRmXDJkuaZPDyDKCBL3yaDY0hX83G1CjE_4SW5RBbWN4mIkxqzeQmxFrHiBLbg_bgeng-XJ2d5SgfVJQBZlvua2viv6oTKjSyyfkEyumQVQ8GnRTuk70FbeHDTlhZqxElX5O6pbk-Sf4/s640/blogger-image--476542514.jpg"></a></div>The replacement wheels got it back on the road but even with the help of pro mechanics, I never got it dialed in and working well again. I was lucky enough to have a loner bike through Blackburn and then get a couple of other nice late model bikes leading me to mothball the Bianchi. </div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNYNg46ivy8Phn0ACojKbhoK685DbhMLHymThM_D_u_KcJXATGk7Gx1SuLNKYWIxQDChl1iDOJOsHwevLfFcFgbD5T_91SN8B2GjPliZxIXol9xBCK1an0rpqRSB5Un8YTDEbexhcB_rA/s640/blogger-image-1769276147.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNYNg46ivy8Phn0ACojKbhoK685DbhMLHymThM_D_u_KcJXATGk7Gx1SuLNKYWIxQDChl1iDOJOsHwevLfFcFgbD5T_91SN8B2GjPliZxIXol9xBCK1an0rpqRSB5Un8YTDEbexhcB_rA/s640/blogger-image-1769276147.jpg"></a></div>As noted, this Bianchi Sport wasn't a high end machine even new but it does have some nice frame tubing that's supposed to be better than the fancy all Italian manufactured bikes of the same era. So, it's both a good candidate for a radical upgrade and far from "ruining" a rare vintage bike. In part this is about realizing ideas I've had for it from the start. It's also an experiment to see how far I can take an old ten speed short of cutting and welding the frame. Turns out you can do a lot and it doesn't have to cost a fortune. </div></div><div><br></div><div>Since these photos were taken its been through a couple evolutions including an upgrade to a modern stem. That will require an upgrade to different shifters and I finally found a celeste saddle for it. </div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5397166274888769721.post-64982879577559888152015-06-27T01:35:00.000-07:002015-06-27T01:35:09.961-07:00Specialized Sequoia<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC0k7sY5aWjc5NX37HQCuMBAPEJ617sJROhQYDvXg9W5-qMOmTMa4mkcRowUlsSe7ThqeQs-XSUDyffsXKDcah2tWxbJaI9qvZAh4LW28_RMy82__Hk2aVHVFx2p_RL0Z7o8JQPRK4ECg/s640/blogger-image-81192880.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="147" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC0k7sY5aWjc5NX37HQCuMBAPEJ617sJROhQYDvXg9W5-qMOmTMa4mkcRowUlsSe7ThqeQs-XSUDyffsXKDcah2tWxbJaI9qvZAh4LW28_RMy82__Hk2aVHVFx2p_RL0Z7o8JQPRK4ECg/s200/blogger-image-81192880.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
This one is more of a case study for discussion rather than a project post. I needed a more suitable commuter than my CAAD8 or Daily. This Specialized Sequoia is about one frame size smaller than I usually ride, and stock, it wasn't something I wanted to ride but it had promise. That's the point of this case study. It needed a lot of part swapping and some repairs but turned out well.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFtSLSJOKjF8MR3VqwvWRefxiYFpm5R6xJUHz2tcXfHo7u5o7DJ67dXy4XxqW8H81yZrtSupe-2afSeSBU-mdVlK2ADA9tv0YmAimgtnnPewebgd02G8gMpkkC5_Do_GvcNZo8NebVYGM/s640/blogger-image--1050739959.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="120" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFtSLSJOKjF8MR3VqwvWRefxiYFpm5R6xJUHz2tcXfHo7u5o7DJ67dXy4XxqW8H81yZrtSupe-2afSeSBU-mdVlK2ADA9tv0YmAimgtnnPewebgd02G8gMpkkC5_Do_GvcNZo8NebVYGM/s200/blogger-image--1050739959.jpg" width="200" /></a>The first image is my complete(almost) Sequoia, the second is of a stock bike from the Specialized website. As sold, the Sequoia had a clunky adjustable stem, a heavy shock absorber seatpost and a funky comfort saddle. It also had an OK gruppo and a light, rigid frame with a nice carbon fork. In short, it didn't look like much at first but, by not ignoring what it could be, I was able to build a nice bike. It's also not too far off from the Sequoia Pro that sold for about double the price of the Sport model. Even got the bar tape looking decent this time! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
...of course now that it's built the way I want, works well and looks decent, much like my CAAD8, I'm left questioning whether to risk it locked in a rack.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB7WKLMeptFw1lwSJobyJdIvd7ZxRzTOrGL6h5gOlB_hxjzcga-oPWV7M1c0bbpeTLrDufYrww9c_7pnmXSyveEW49O2crLxSiiiU4qFFzTptMcg_yMM9ywUB6vyXHKgTO6CvAGHfNnl0/s640/blogger-image--989882876.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB7WKLMeptFw1lwSJobyJdIvd7ZxRzTOrGL6h5gOlB_hxjzcga-oPWV7M1c0bbpeTLrDufYrww9c_7pnmXSyveEW49O2crLxSiiiU4qFFzTptMcg_yMM9ywUB6vyXHKgTO6CvAGHfNnl0/s200/blogger-image--989882876.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
With the addition of a Tioga style saddle I think it's ready to roll for now. ...at least until I remember where I put those Dura Ace brakes.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
</div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaKfaxVeJ7IIh58B3c8dDSK8yKLq8f4xgf5lAzw5agqEGrLNMqqW_I_3UqVh9mt0TJdmjng78XG3zR60fEVq3PoXLEugx44qQZRsn_Opnw-hdvLtlJGCWjXsq5ns2tdn7wdimz1idjPSk/s640/blogger-image-1136122489.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="126" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaKfaxVeJ7IIh58B3c8dDSK8yKLq8f4xgf5lAzw5agqEGrLNMqqW_I_3UqVh9mt0TJdmjng78XG3zR60fEVq3PoXLEugx44qQZRsn_Opnw-hdvLtlJGCWjXsq5ns2tdn7wdimz1idjPSk/s200/blogger-image-1136122489.jpg" width="200" /></a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5397166274888769721.post-90145320167362657762015-05-26T11:06:00.000-07:002015-05-26T11:06:16.620-07:002006 CAAD8<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="" style="clear: both;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-82FHZV2zTNerioe7fDAdbJm2AOiC_O3vcjl8UELQeE6sZM4PvxnwqKO-IXDsY8QWYZ4M7jZTqMvE6Xtsr2s4-oPcd0dyg2q7pS_N8cbu1KU1C7F0mIjek7yMq635SBymitImvW_lI_Q/s640/blogger-image-590455518.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-82FHZV2zTNerioe7fDAdbJm2AOiC_O3vcjl8UELQeE6sZM4PvxnwqKO-IXDsY8QWYZ4M7jZTqMvE6Xtsr2s4-oPcd0dyg2q7pS_N8cbu1KU1C7F0mIjek7yMq635SBymitImvW_lI_Q/s200/blogger-image-590455518.jpg" width="200" /></a>The latest adoptee in my stable of Frankenbikes is a truly fantastic project. In its current incarnation probably one of the nicest bikes bikes I've ever owned. Built for racing, it's not a great city bike and it's too light for touring but it's a dream to ride. </div>
<div class="" style="clear: both;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYKaIOduUG2_hfsi4lQiMZR7Y07WHax1Fzu-naisG1S8dhphPAuBb-BeXhRlIE_31wQosgbhId0f0LiFWOCsFT0W0vWlChTp1WWnAYvrITithpIf8-pNK32ztfXFGmc1bF9_PEVzfdrSQ/s640/blogger-image-2040594397.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYKaIOduUG2_hfsi4lQiMZR7Y07WHax1Fzu-naisG1S8dhphPAuBb-BeXhRlIE_31wQosgbhId0f0LiFWOCsFT0W0vWlChTp1WWnAYvrITithpIf8-pNK32ztfXFGmc1bF9_PEVzfdrSQ/s200/blogger-image-2040594397.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
The 2006 CAAD8 frame is stiff and responsive with aggressive race geometry and enough damping from the Ritchey carbon fork to keep the ride responsive but not jarring. The gruppo is a bit of a taboo myth buster with a Campagnolo Chorus drive train utilizing a Shimano ten speed cassette on Dura Ace 1380 wheels. "They" will say it can't be done but I assure you with the ten speeds it can. The Belgian compact crank up front is also amenable to eleven speed mixing with Shimano but I'm sticking with my ten. For the record I tried a Shimano wheel with a Dura Ace Cassette in an otherwise Campy Chorus drive train and it works as well as the American Classic wheel with Campy Cassette I have, better in terms of the ride.<br />
<div class="" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAQ_pwXH8s16PqkCM9y8crS-j-rEwIYp101NMV1vcrQJV47Sp9TgWRmGR8v1grU7tkiV8cZpWshCxb0bZ-sxxWMsLZk6r1xmWoQ1IF2DQBBrG1ozN-NWZpluMbk-cr0lvwBjV3alejgeA/s640/blogger-image-1831863718.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAQ_pwXH8s16PqkCM9y8crS-j-rEwIYp101NMV1vcrQJV47Sp9TgWRmGR8v1grU7tkiV8cZpWshCxb0bZ-sxxWMsLZk6r1xmWoQ1IF2DQBBrG1ozN-NWZpluMbk-cr0lvwBjV3alejgeA/s200/blogger-image-1831863718.jpg" width="150" /></a>It mostly took some fussy adjusting and measuring to figure out if it could be done and then a lot of head scratching and wrenching in Italian. I visited all of my usual bike guys and a few more to get help yanking the very stuck Campy Record seatpost out and learn a few critical details about drive trains. For the most part it needed cable adjustments that it would have needed regardless of the cassette. The bike had been sitting a long time and I suspect was formerly fitted with ZIPP wheels and a Campy cassette. It was dusty, dried out and neglected but came right back with a small amount of TLC. The end result is well worth the effort. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQay0Gpxzd8Pmwbqh8851T3C8xii86qctRdQwnMzIzBIqRWWzFknHz0RBh4D4N4Q4HI_D1XGaeVR9tZEs8k0NycqrWDCqOOOJ2rKX2Ml2oHpTL4EUKE5uD5xrGH4y3sltmcJIOSGDqYFQ/s640/blogger-image--255308590.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQay0Gpxzd8Pmwbqh8851T3C8xii86qctRdQwnMzIzBIqRWWzFknHz0RBh4D4N4Q4HI_D1XGaeVR9tZEs8k0NycqrWDCqOOOJ2rKX2Ml2oHpTL4EUKE5uD5xrGH4y3sltmcJIOSGDqYFQ/s200/blogger-image--255308590.jpg" width="150" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimSGpMk_CMChpPFHtfZ76rGqaZA7KYEG5JqkSUsJ9UxqCBzLsJE3oZtwyvJgKw73eznOksj2Q0pHcLFe4Y5At6a4_gt3zxNV6MNC4qgSNrs9BqfaXONEzztXfJm29zMOQVQJGCXxh_osg/s640/blogger-image-142252310.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimSGpMk_CMChpPFHtfZ76rGqaZA7KYEG5JqkSUsJ9UxqCBzLsJE3oZtwyvJgKw73eznOksj2Q0pHcLFe4Y5At6a4_gt3zxNV6MNC4qgSNrs9BqfaXONEzztXfJm29zMOQVQJGCXxh_osg/s320/blogger-image-142252310.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5397166274888769721.post-22535021131724560552015-03-16T21:36:00.001-07:002015-05-02T04:59:41.272-07:00Street sweeper bristles (pt2)<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKiVL0Qzhq_Prti_fGrX9_V3fRR7vf7KpadbaYbntUtKK5TYRQArPM66QIZOcNG2NZavew7IjfYb9I5gbBJrsbArpK3M_c7-Xj7-cy8_iDPRHg7859bA614C_fHxSLc7tj2uEWNHIKtY0/s640/blogger-image-1877512532.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKiVL0Qzhq_Prti_fGrX9_V3fRR7vf7KpadbaYbntUtKK5TYRQArPM66QIZOcNG2NZavew7IjfYb9I5gbBJrsbArpK3M_c7-Xj7-cy8_iDPRHg7859bA614C_fHxSLc7tj2uEWNHIKtY0/s200/blogger-image-1877512532.jpg" width="150"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">All the files you need</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
So once you have some raw materials and some files, you can make a few basic tools. An initial set doesn't need to be at all complicated. Just a hook and a tension wrench are all you need to get started. That noted, I have had great success with saw tooth rakes and they're not terribly hard to make. You can also start with a hook and leave the other end of your tool ready to shape once you figure out what you want to do with it. I make most of my tools double ended.<br>
<br>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhSDfKNP7lxoh88uDz4PtY4Eafy8rcMyZGeE1JCXbYW4JjVi-L8H03KZWkIicn1SRdOtNm1XQHpHdhA9onr-5YQRBvNrbhXr8OkQylOzmg4Q6LdaP2IzutdNo55XvC7y10DJ_nDNOuVL8/s640/blogger-image--722287081.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhSDfKNP7lxoh88uDz4PtY4Eafy8rcMyZGeE1JCXbYW4JjVi-L8H03KZWkIicn1SRdOtNm1XQHpHdhA9onr-5YQRBvNrbhXr8OkQylOzmg4Q6LdaP2IzutdNo55XvC7y10DJ_nDNOuVL8/s200/blogger-image--722287081.jpg" width="150"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Double ended tools ready for final shaping</td></tr>
</tbody></table>A basic pair of one tension wrench that has a hook on the end opposite the wrench and a double ended tool with a hook on one end and a rake on the other makes a good basic set. The hook on the wrench can be used as a feeler to test locks for condition and to count the number of pins. The rake allows for rapid picking that can then be finished with the hook on it's other end as is often the case. Set most of the pins with quick raking and SPP(single pin pick) the last one or two. This also leaves SPP as a first option. This should open most Master, Ace and random Chinese locks with reasonable practice. With more practice and time, most any lock can be SPP'd. This set is not as easy for the untrained to use as the popular Bogota rakes but has far more potential in the long run and allows a student to better understand what they are doing.<br>
<br>
The basic process is to cut half circles out of the bristles at the ends and then shape them into hooks as shown side by side in the third image. This should be easy enough to logic out. Use the round files for making round cuts and flat files to shape the hooks<br>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijBh9sRKb_fqCh2uLdzthjwdMNNRFYG_DLAmhMrpKJ8cz_-MgxVk3iLYfVlNWfQrJE1xE67KiZKmma_x92zF0Pqj4j4xkgkzWOoao64t-R6CyhO8RqCh-wWGhiYWBTKRlt-L6lRcQG58A/s640/blogger-image--1326064950.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijBh9sRKb_fqCh2uLdzthjwdMNNRFYG_DLAmhMrpKJ8cz_-MgxVk3iLYfVlNWfQrJE1xE67KiZKmma_x92zF0Pqj4j4xkgkzWOoao64t-R6CyhO8RqCh-wWGhiYWBTKRlt-L6lRcQG58A/s200/blogger-image--1326064950.jpg" width="150"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Basic hook</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
or rakes as shown in the fourth image. You could be very precise making these but you'll be close even if you aren't and the locks aren't that precise anyway. Just make sure to stack your peaks and valleys so that the peaks are points when you make a saw tooth and then round the end so it moves easily inside the lock.<br>
<br>
Noteworthy points might be that my best hooks are almost all cut at about forty five degrees if you draw a line from the base of the arch to the end of the hook. You will almost certainly want to cut the inside of the arch before shaping the outside and then remove a lot of material from the shaft leading up to your tool end. The bristles are stiff and you want as little in your way inside the keyway as possible. Polishing is optional but if your raw material is particularly rusted or corroded but it doesn't take much and the tools do clean up a bit with use.<br>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivkcvx5DoBov5YlwM06cALnuDiNkwT8S7PfLsOQ6iCdhB6mmGswotasJE05mUuUxAotVe4lTw93J8zOrmDcV4ViZTYnU54BnLlPgT2Df0WbMw_OR9jBkoPWTIs1AkhePRtz7ZP8KWBqQ0/s640/blogger-image--932071625.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivkcvx5DoBov5YlwM06cALnuDiNkwT8S7PfLsOQ6iCdhB6mmGswotasJE05mUuUxAotVe4lTw93J8zOrmDcV4ViZTYnU54BnLlPgT2Df0WbMw_OR9jBkoPWTIs1AkhePRtz7ZP8KWBqQ0/s200/blogger-image--932071625.jpg" width="150"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Different stages of completion of a saw tooth rake</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br>
There are innumerable YouTube videos showing basic attack methods. Fewer deal with tool fabrication. My thought is that tool manufacture is at least as important as the skills one needs for using them. Given the ease of acquisition of bristles and the quality of the metal I focus on making my tools as shown.<br>
<br>
Other materials commonly available are windshield wiper blade springs, good but too soft for my liking. That means easy to shape but they wear out much faster and bend easier when you don't wan them to. So, I have and do use these springs but they aren't my preferred stock. A similar common material with potential is bra under wire strips. There are certainly plenty of bras but not so many sitting around waiting to be robbed of the wires. These are also somewhat softer metal and not to my liking.<br>
<br>
I'll leave it at that. A couple very basic tools you can get about anywhere and street sweeper bristles you can also get about anywhere and keep a few on hand for later or just find when you need one.<br>
<br>
So go out and make a hook and I'll get to work on the next installment, how to make a tension wrench.<br>
<br>
<br>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5397166274888769721.post-20564660183917083322015-02-02T12:34:00.001-08:002015-03-07T01:26:19.399-08:00Street sweeper bristles (pt1)<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCYmL7SmHz3TS4ynvuTIx0eottKpZGC7Sr6ZdlIA6ChbIkOerABXCOK3yetq5iO6AZav-lqudRTdxEm_e74Tldr2BHxZRwmsz4oJ5id-7KaCpmNxE68EKMLbQnIvgszlxduqGl8oucong/s640/blogger-image--357113090.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCYmL7SmHz3TS4ynvuTIx0eottKpZGC7Sr6ZdlIA6ChbIkOerABXCOK3yetq5iO6AZav-lqudRTdxEm_e74Tldr2BHxZRwmsz4oJ5id-7KaCpmNxE68EKMLbQnIvgszlxduqGl8oucong/s200/blogger-image--357113090.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
What? Right, it does say street sweeper bristles. What they are you might guess, why they are useful you would have to know. So, here is a post to get you in the know for what may be the most popular secondary use of street sweeper bristles.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
While I'm sure there are other uses the two main things broken street sweeper bristles get used for are lock picks and clay sculpting tools. The relatively thin, durable, spring steel bristles are just shy of purpose made for both, especially lock picks. While they sharpen into ok little blades, make nice fish spears and random other things, my main use is lock sport tools. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
They seem to snap off where street sweepers, the big mechanized ones, turn corners or encounter rough pavement. Find them most often at cross walks. While even experienced lock sport folks won't usually need more than half a dozen tools at a time, they do break, get lost or more often are given away, perhaps even discarded for various reasons. Keeping a few bristles on hand is useful and leaving them as found advantageous. My personal preference for styles of lock sport tools has certainly changed over time. Between making my own new tools and sharing materials or making tools for others I often keep an eye to the curb for stray bristles. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
One major advantage of doing this and why it warrants a post introducing the topic is related to something I learned when I acquired some of my skills. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
The tools you start with will likely be your go to tools as your skills progress. Those who start with commercial tools usually prefer commercial tools and those who make their own tend to continue that practice. The utility in knowing how to make your own tools with materials that are literally laying around should be obvious. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Next up, fast tracking some basics. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5397166274888769721.post-56506741183250373582014-11-29T00:11:00.001-08:002015-01-14T18:28:03.840-08:00Yucca packs and packboards<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiquGNyzaWVfmN-SzvnSdodSOy1QkXbehOJuz-YN9tGTCpfPA5HoXaABNCPzTQIKLpTIo74QDeUQqEgIZYnGJhfGzz1s9zOIHagMvPJOK92Ys-mLWv7rwSRlIZA1AzIwOEwh4euBojCM5k/s640/blogger-image--880655868.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiquGNyzaWVfmN-SzvnSdodSOy1QkXbehOJuz-YN9tGTCpfPA5HoXaABNCPzTQIKLpTIo74QDeUQqEgIZYnGJhfGzz1s9zOIHagMvPJOK92Ys-mLWv7rwSRlIZA1AzIwOEwh4euBojCM5k/s200/blogger-image--880655868.jpg" width="150" /></a>A question was recently posed about taking a yucca pack off of a packboard with regard to how you re-attach its straps. Short answer, you don't. After looking at both of my yucca packs, checking out packboards, sleuthing every style of bag I could find photos or examples of and finally looking at my copy of the 1948 and 1967 handbooks as well as the 1965 field book, I figured out a few things.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
There are about three styles of scout packs that have been in common use as well as a deluxe version of yucca(1329) that is better suited to a packboard or frame, than the most common scout pack, the 574 yucca pack. The official frame was the Cruiser. Two other packs are the ultra basic haversack and the camper or three pocket model. Those four models are all Diamond brand packs and all have permanently attached straps that are stitched and riveted with a reinforced leather patch. If any of those models lack straps, they have been removed or its a different model. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQUjS5-ERzpVX064dTya9coHDvSaICFCQc99gn346AmTrZMbgAUATw4kcFOzrvlv0hliypOsOR6Y8bUfLNG6MEpU3Cw5fUvSPZk-J0v6ftrNa_E0lIwtMUUHi1JVxZ5Z-JVuLn8UKd268/s640/blogger-image--579268726.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQUjS5-ERzpVX064dTya9coHDvSaICFCQc99gn346AmTrZMbgAUATw4kcFOzrvlv0hliypOsOR6Y8bUfLNG6MEpU3Cw5fUvSPZk-J0v6ftrNa_E0lIwtMUUHi1JVxZ5Z-JVuLn8UKd268/s200/blogger-image--579268726.jpg" width="150" /></a>There are two other less common packs the 1307 D by Diamond and an early one called the Trapper Nelson, both are designed to remain on their frames. The Trapper Nelson is much more rare and looks different from the 1307 which at first glance looks like a yucca. Most 1307 models have a zippered outer pocket and a red Scout seal rather than the black one found on most Diamond brand packs and a handful of others have model numbers you aren't likely to see. As these models are designed to stay on their frames they have no straps or only have straps for attaching to a frame. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Being canvas, any of the old Diamond brand packs are easily modified and maintained as long as the cloth isnt rotten. If you have a bag needing repairs or something modifed any luggage repair shop should be able to help. </div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyQJTo99O9wXOZSV1PXGsETpXZqTY2kj1chpy9VNy1x4OeVkBh_cgD16F9-Kw7ZKohyphenhyphenvzRrZl6VzZfK5UVJp68X7lLWyzbuW5h2xBhhD_Qnq2Rj-oyZnkyRYgYPpEpZHF5GdSuZuei0ok/s640/blogger-image--2032277956.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyQJTo99O9wXOZSV1PXGsETpXZqTY2kj1chpy9VNy1x4OeVkBh_cgD16F9-Kw7ZKohyphenhyphenvzRrZl6VzZfK5UVJp68X7lLWyzbuW5h2xBhhD_Qnq2Rj-oyZnkyRYgYPpEpZHF5GdSuZuei0ok/s200/blogger-image--2032277956.jpg" width="200" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwN1j4JTCXuwFHNSyGdAMnkNlLluRNSnxeo8TAnQmagkoqJnNorGTR_-SzW0PefiN3wlkvFB7xkEgOTSs0Op_brSr9SWpBNCh2zldeSMPOgTPdVK_um_JtSNHL9FrVdIm7jbEI3JIdJ_0/s640/blogger-image-1180608429.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwN1j4JTCXuwFHNSyGdAMnkNlLluRNSnxeo8TAnQmagkoqJnNorGTR_-SzW0PefiN3wlkvFB7xkEgOTSs0Op_brSr9SWpBNCh2zldeSMPOgTPdVK_um_JtSNHL9FrVdIm7jbEI3JIdJ_0/s200/blogger-image-1180608429.jpg" width="150" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9K0HROXPdCIcSLzmuwEKX_X9p6vQgEBDK4bceHN9_9L1g56oSwmCEllayTTRAAlPO7V7krNkLcPUAgMYX6okLFPyKDvcm7ZFYf8LFWqJvvqwyRi9bZjNRiT14mhaSaDtVu1fLQ3q6cZw/s640/blogger-image-1063143175.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9K0HROXPdCIcSLzmuwEKX_X9p6vQgEBDK4bceHN9_9L1g56oSwmCEllayTTRAAlPO7V7krNkLcPUAgMYX6okLFPyKDvcm7ZFYf8LFWqJvvqwyRi9bZjNRiT14mhaSaDtVu1fLQ3q6cZw/s200/blogger-image-1063143175.jpg" width="150" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_2pY-Iv_bIUgqYBsCms6AiUdXrNscFriHzXTamBT34HEIalwcClkMOd3IjgH6Hg7sBmi-VfLHOjw8ZSM5FimMas94Kgf7DDVKkRXdJHK-wEfN91GLTsiLXyowfOxqw2zNR-kQ6GG0uPE/s640/blogger-image--411612372.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_2pY-Iv_bIUgqYBsCms6AiUdXrNscFriHzXTamBT34HEIalwcClkMOd3IjgH6Hg7sBmi-VfLHOjw8ZSM5FimMas94Kgf7DDVKkRXdJHK-wEfN91GLTsiLXyowfOxqw2zNR-kQ6GG0uPE/s200/blogger-image--411612372.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1iF1QHQOc3yvUzutRfPToV0HoH5R_5f1YyDJqhPFWo7TYUQjF-sY9OUEkaM6SslPpXNwb7AWF3J1HTfzwvmIVM4lkAVradxE3g6AOogHlu_TLpqBGlX7piw7SFqK3bZbVlCvXdu72JcY/s640/blogger-image--1730550717.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1iF1QHQOc3yvUzutRfPToV0HoH5R_5f1YyDJqhPFWo7TYUQjF-sY9OUEkaM6SslPpXNwb7AWF3J1HTfzwvmIVM4lkAVradxE3g6AOogHlu_TLpqBGlX7piw7SFqK3bZbVlCvXdu72JcY/s200/blogger-image--1730550717.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5397166274888769721.post-27326615698209782282014-11-13T14:58:00.001-08:002014-11-17T22:02:36.206-08:00Glass knapping<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv09-UQol025anUdap-u8-IYUkmxf1RNMXi3BDvOnc8tl3t8ZFdAyKudqHr9oYkOINngn-XSKFjQwOH4XV-JTjkG3n-AwQ4OJI89N7kl6EVFWtEQj-a9G98_MViM782CUCCgwV5AgLcX4/s640/blogger-image-1965031857.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv09-UQol025anUdap-u8-IYUkmxf1RNMXi3BDvOnc8tl3t8ZFdAyKudqHr9oYkOINngn-XSKFjQwOH4XV-JTjkG3n-AwQ4OJI89N7kl6EVFWtEQj-a9G98_MViM782CUCCgwV5AgLcX4/s200/blogger-image-1965031857.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
I have a lot of old projects, things that have been set aside for one reason or another but not abandoned. I'm a big believer in know when to push projects and when to let them breath and happen in their own time. My glass(flint) knapping project, and I suppose knapping skills in general, are on that back burner stack.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I did a lot of shaping stone when I was a kid. In scouts, my decade of involvement with Historic Fort Wayne and outdoor adventures in general, flint knapping was something that everyone seemed to be doing. Whether art, hobby, demonstration or any number of other reasons from dressing musket flints to making stone tools, it was just present. When I got to college it was another thing that archaeologists do, though with a more experimental intent. College was also where I started focusing on glass. Partially because it about the best easily obtainable material and partially because it's hard to create false sites or contaminate existing sites with glass. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I've had a nice piece of glass sitting on my nightstand for months waiting for a time and inspiration. It's kind of a zen thing, shaping a piece of glass with a stone is something everyone should do once or twice. So when I found a scrap of bone last weekend that seemed like "the" haft, I got to work. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
The blade is still rough but shaping nice and I've always wanted to make a knapped knife to carry as a pocket knife just to see how functional it can be. We know countless cultures used stone blades as functional tools at one time and they certainly show up as art now but for tool use seem to have become a novelty item. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
As an archaeologist, artist and post apocalyptic fiction fan I think I'm over due to answer that question. I'll post an update once my slab of window glass and bone turns into a useable tool and maybe after it lives in my pocket for a while. </div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
....and damn it. Meh, I'll find another hunk of glass. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuTp-qo0RDN-0z7xJ9UodMiTW8ljv7YZB021c6zvNdBARmb3aPOsbf_yyHJcy0gbP-YJsWmfuJDTOD9tGOgnbGEWbW-su1vOVi8DE9_tntIWRAX_L9C8OIAJKPb7uQO7yn2ueyjK6F1dc/s640/blogger-image-1789014200.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuTp-qo0RDN-0z7xJ9UodMiTW8ljv7YZB021c6zvNdBARmb3aPOsbf_yyHJcy0gbP-YJsWmfuJDTOD9tGOgnbGEWbW-su1vOVi8DE9_tntIWRAX_L9C8OIAJKPb7uQO7yn2ueyjK6F1dc/s200/blogger-image-1789014200.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5397166274888769721.post-38651888910413915442014-10-19T20:28:00.000-07:002014-11-06T10:15:46.844-08:00Another Globe in the mix!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBH-q8jfmZzXfL2-narKeWA6z0eQeLR1UKmKZbVKL0h4R7O7ps2BpzhI6U8LRIl7T5yb8PhQ5HVrwuSiLrPEQFh_uMMFLQ2bV87TwJK01ccBqB0PWmXC3Aut3HH_K1AvEiZ89XUtTYqM0/s1600/IMG_20140927_093341.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBH-q8jfmZzXfL2-narKeWA6z0eQeLR1UKmKZbVKL0h4R7O7ps2BpzhI6U8LRIl7T5yb8PhQ5HVrwuSiLrPEQFh_uMMFLQ2bV87TwJK01ccBqB0PWmXC3Aut3HH_K1AvEiZ89XUtTYqM0/s1600/IMG_20140927_093341.jpg" height="150" width="200" /></a>There's this constant quest for "the" bike, the perfect bike for all applications that more than likely doesn't exist. The more probable solution is accepting the limits of our machines and becoming better riders. Working as a bike messenger in San Francisco provides an opportunity to test bikes and riders on some of the most challenging terrain in the world.<br />
<br />
Even on our "insane" hills my Globe Roll 1 has been a favorite. I don't ride it fixed and I do have brakes but even geared high in track bike range, once I got used to it, riding single speed is efficient and fast. Granted, I had a lot more adapting to do than the bike did and on my tired days I grab one of my geared bikes but I've even been able to manage a couple of 100 mile trips with my one lonely gear.<br />
<br />
I was predictably excited recently when I added an early model Globe Daily 1 to the mix. Visually different from the Globe Roll series it offers similar ride quality and geometry in a full fender dressed up package complete with front rack, mustache style bars and stem mounted bell. So far it has tackled courier shifts and the back roads of Santa Cruz county earning the moniker "Daily" as it has become a true workhorse and go to utility bike pedaling to and from school, on weekend trips and hops across the Golden Gate for Coast Guard duty. With ample eyelets and lugs on it's sturdy aluminum frame, the Daily stands ready for all manor of racks and accessories begging the question, how feasible is touring on a single speed bike? While 100 mile days would be a chore, the daily would certainly go anywhere a vintage three speed could go. Back in the "good ol days" that was just about everywhere.<br />
<br />
There are a handful of things needing upgrading. The brakes work but aren't stellar, the pedals look OK but leave a lot of room for improvement and the rear fender needs regular attention to keep it from rattling loose but those things stack up as minor in the big picture. Overall it's a damn classy bike and like it's Roll counterparts, outperforms nearly every other bike I've encountered in it's style and price range. <br />
<br />
Update: About a week and 100 miles after writing this one of the pedals came apart. I replaced the stock pedals with a set of <a href="http://www.specialized.com/us/en/ftb/pseries-components/pseries-components/pseries-platform-pedals" target="_blank">Specialized platform pedals</a> with power straps. They work well but don't quite look right and will be getting another upgrade soon. I have a set of<a href="http://www.citygrounds.com/all-city/allcity-standard-track-pedals-33" target="_blank"> All-City pedals</a> that would look a lot better and maintain the Daily as the one bike in my stable with non-SPDsUnknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5397166274888769721.post-32899487905922539352014-10-17T01:32:00.000-07:002014-10-17T01:32:03.075-07:00Martial skills for EMS<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhF1FN38tMjN0WZR_-WX6m-6x4FPXzriUpngxKXG3u-sJIg4fyRFCMyTvATdMqEixx5dGrWxk_UfnGcO70HKY_gBvqFk9BcQ-Eh7kMSV8mQ6SRRXy3TBpOUMCLvTRNPLkml2D6OpMWlp3I/s640/blogger-image--1230147471.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhF1FN38tMjN0WZR_-WX6m-6x4FPXzriUpngxKXG3u-sJIg4fyRFCMyTvATdMqEixx5dGrWxk_UfnGcO70HKY_gBvqFk9BcQ-Eh7kMSV8mQ6SRRXy3TBpOUMCLvTRNPLkml2D6OpMWlp3I/s200/blogger-image--1230147471.jpg" width="149" /></a></div>
Tonight as I sit here admittedly whining about the vaccinations I got today making my arms ache, I'm contemplating gentle submission techniques to present to EMT students tomorrow. Our lead instructor has police and SWAT experience with a lot of very "real world" stress testing. That noted, I'm coming up with a small number of value added items to augment the standards. I'll be digging deep on this one to come up with things both simple and effective that are less likely to cause harm.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
It's been a while since I gave my Oni Kai Aikido blog any attention but this may provide material and an interesting direction for a few posts. While I maintain that Aikido is about the longest path to field applicable combat skills a person could choose, it is effective none the less. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I miss my days of nearly living in dojos and being immersed in this stuff. Maybe a new evolution for Oni Kai is in order. I can certainly think of less noble applications for martial systems. </div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5397166274888769721.post-7415574041817706702014-10-12T04:13:00.000-07:002014-10-19T21:20:36.633-07:00Ross road bike project<div class="" style="clear: both;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwLBZKgTqid9u6z_fbu7G1nNOfR86tFEpNK139ekgF8G6jw3s2XCPSyAGUXiK7og7X7vrTR-N-4u3YF831c4Q39JTP7-CHC1PXoxa9mV0gCT8Akw1XnChltX9qs8Dvr58iFalBR9zBv5k/s1600/blogger-image--1852099684.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwLBZKgTqid9u6z_fbu7G1nNOfR86tFEpNK139ekgF8G6jw3s2XCPSyAGUXiK7og7X7vrTR-N-4u3YF831c4Q39JTP7-CHC1PXoxa9mV0gCT8Akw1XnChltX9qs8Dvr58iFalBR9zBv5k/s1600/blogger-image--1852099684.jpg" height="150" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuENgvIKAKUhhUZ3jaxPg5mNknQHvqzxQFSEoMuDJB6klfDYhTA8ZnHWB3-Pyp1f1isR_Gyi4hJhMwCmbjdBgmY4HK9NZYJaQEeM2rHzxfCTA30ph-Zdn35jcar9fmRStydb_6PYxQ1Ss/s640/blogger-image--1852099684.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a>Here's a (terrible) photo of the next build. It's a mid 70's lugged steel Ross road bike. It has nice looking geometry and just enough patina to lend it some character without being overly beat up. There are a couple things that will need to be straightened out but I'm looking forward to another everyday rider. I'll be kitting it out with a much more recent road bike as the donor for most of the missing parts. Very little will be new but it should be a fun bike. Otherwise known as functional and won't make me cry if some thug makes off with it. Though, I am increasingly careful of using multiple locks and near paranoia regarding neighborhoods where I lock up my bikes even for "a minute". </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
I'm unexpectedly excited about this one. Must be some random nostalgic memory getting dredged up. Consider this my "before" photo and wish me luck piecing it together! </div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5397166274888769721.post-88376438118122727622014-09-14T14:00:00.002-07:002014-09-14T14:00:33.497-07:00SOF T tourniquet<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi77Rm4Y43L5oUglmXsulg9cl067ghVeEAcdqui8KnRe5u-DyX_ExlDwgfAwXaV53WjZ5Fx3qIjgP1WmMrUySbPrE32JdllfQZyS3gGSoI85reqICu3T3khIgAG3BxqzCQYkvNg6DDIcu4/s640/blogger-image-199713571.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi77Rm4Y43L5oUglmXsulg9cl067ghVeEAcdqui8KnRe5u-DyX_ExlDwgfAwXaV53WjZ5Fx3qIjgP1WmMrUySbPrE32JdllfQZyS3gGSoI85reqICu3T3khIgAG3BxqzCQYkvNg6DDIcu4/s200/blogger-image-199713571.jpg" width="150" /></a>I have a reasonable amount of experience with tourniquets and a few weeks ago at <a href="https://www.urbanshield.org/" target="_blank">Urban Shield</a> I got to do some side by side comparison with a variety of them in classes and scenarios. One of the instructor favorites was the SOF T. It's one of three that seem to be among the most popular. I had mixed feelings about it. In spite of some initial difficulties and one very specific application issue, it seems to be a solid choice for regular carry and field use. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
There are a number of pros to this model, not the least of which is the solid construction and metal windlass. The ones I worked with held up well and worked even when wet, an obvious positive point. I was able to quickly crank down and stop femoral bleeds and the <a href="https://www.blogger.com/%3Ciframe%20style=%22width:120px;height:240px;%22%20marginwidth=%220%22%20marginheight=%220%22%20scrolling=%22no%22%20frameborder=%220%22%20src=%22//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&OneJS=1&Operation=GetAdHtml&MarketPlace=US&source=ac&ref=tf_til&ad_type=product_link&tracking_id=dointhin-20&marketplace=amazon&region=US&placement=B006QLKVSI&asins=B006QLKVSI&linkId=CYR7B3UL37EN47I6&show_border=true&link_opens_in_new_window=true%22%3E%20%3C/iframe%3E" target="_blank">SOF T</a> seemed very well suited for use on legs, possibly better than some other models. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
On the cons side, it was difficult to tighten with self application. The buckle wasn't prone to rapid deployment and it was tricky getting the windlass locked with one hand and it isn't the easiest to grip wet. That might not be a big deal as long as you are not attempting self rescue but for that reason alone, it's not my favorite. I had a hard time at first meeting the time limits for my tests when attempting to apply the SOF T to my upper arms. I did manage to deploy within desired times but had better times with other tourniquets. This could be unique to me but the same tendencies were observed with other students. It got much worse with fluids. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
Overall I would say you can trust it to work for sure and it's a good choice for patient transport because of the secure locking ring. Again, after a fair amount of practice I was able to use it quickly and effectively but I would prefer it not take much practice. At any rate, it's a solid piece of gear that will serve well should you need it. Effectively the differences are minor but did add up to low double digit percentile changes on speed of deployment. With exsanguination times as rapid as three minutes, thirty seconds can make difference. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
Either way, it's a solid choice and in this case arguing for or against probably isn't necessary. If you encounter a SOF T on a patient don't hesitate to use it and if you like them by all means add them to your load out. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&OneJS=1&Operation=GetAdHtml&MarketPlace=US&source=ac&ref=tf_til&ad_type=product_link&tracking_id=dointhin-20&marketplace=amazon&region=US&placement=B006QLKVSI&asins=B006QLKVSI&linkId=CYR7B3UL37EN47I6&show_border=true&link_opens_in_new_window=true" style="height: 240px; width: 120px;"></p>
<p class="separator" style="clear: both;">
</iframe></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5397166274888769721.post-87068727584381388722014-09-01T14:17:00.000-07:002014-09-14T14:18:41.357-07:00Urban Shield 2014<div>
<div style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilhaKC7Tgck_Jejs9qVAoYSKtNkuKxptngqd55BS0Rbp1yyud1_ZOohp_fnpJSP1uHaWvsub0ozDW7tuTCM8di1M0LnW8pyl3h3Aq-yyJuybPlJ_yAG2R3FdpM6y26gTOv1GYvXumqMZY/s640/blogger-image--568374212.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilhaKC7Tgck_Jejs9qVAoYSKtNkuKxptngqd55BS0Rbp1yyud1_ZOohp_fnpJSP1uHaWvsub0ozDW7tuTCM8di1M0LnW8pyl3h3Aq-yyJuybPlJ_yAG2R3FdpM6y26gTOv1GYvXumqMZY/s640/blogger-image--568374212.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="" style="clear: both;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilhaKC7Tgck_Jejs9qVAoYSKtNkuKxptngqd55BS0Rbp1yyud1_ZOohp_fnpJSP1uHaWvsub0ozDW7tuTCM8di1M0LnW8pyl3h3Aq-yyJuybPlJ_yAG2R3FdpM6y26gTOv1GYvXumqMZY/s1600/blogger-image--568374212.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilhaKC7Tgck_Jejs9qVAoYSKtNkuKxptngqd55BS0Rbp1yyud1_ZOohp_fnpJSP1uHaWvsub0ozDW7tuTCM8di1M0LnW8pyl3h3Aq-yyJuybPlJ_yAG2R3FdpM6y26gTOv1GYvXumqMZY/s200/blogger-image--568374212.jpg" width="150" /></a>So wow, Urban Shield 2014. I learned so much it's hard to cover everything but trying is probably a good way to remember more of it so I'll set best intentions now to write at least a few posts talking about some of what I learned. A heck of a lot of ground was covered from exposure to gear and skills to being around countless mentors ranging from Air Force para-rescue, SWAT teams, firefighters and medical professionals with decades of experience to stress training that put everything to the test. It was great. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1e0BwQ6PDiuLCjGLDeHDXt9jNPl3_IRHwYs2u93MlvAw5dA9AuIxBlHQy6PlNHKyuwylU-uR1ujxX_kgpAuFrJ0ZUP887Au5CKPERyPoJbe8tnC3lDqvgm-hjMYgjU4Usg8J4DS8s43M/s640/blogger-image--833165256.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1e0BwQ6PDiuLCjGLDeHDXt9jNPl3_IRHwYs2u93MlvAw5dA9AuIxBlHQy6PlNHKyuwylU-uR1ujxX_kgpAuFrJ0ZUP887Au5CKPERyPoJbe8tnC3lDqvgm-hjMYgjU4Usg8J4DS8s43M/s200/blogger-image--833165256.jpg" width="150" /></a>Among the more trackable benchmarks was getting my LEFR TCC certification, learning needle decompression and substantially upgrading my skills with tourniquets and triage. All more than worthwhile. I'm quite predictably a better first responder for having participated. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGdY4I1hVTITN7eMjJnYW51HaDgChulXJluIcUE3yMoSphgZNae7BnmicJniGBwf0MjX6Cht-4YypuiICn7xzJkISWUaPYMzj6o3TN3Sk4GR3bVCBhVczxfcY-ChVBkIAjAMugYwvsQaI/s640/blogger-image--1446569457.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGdY4I1hVTITN7eMjJnYW51HaDgChulXJluIcUE3yMoSphgZNae7BnmicJniGBwf0MjX6Cht-4YypuiICn7xzJkISWUaPYMzj6o3TN3Sk4GR3bVCBhVczxfcY-ChVBkIAjAMugYwvsQaI/s200/blogger-image--1446569457.jpg" width="150" /></a>From the skilled medics and doctors to the equally skilled operators I was privileged to train with and learn from, I'm humbled, impressed and owe many debts of thanks. Urban Shield was one of the best training exercises I have ever attended. I'm already looking forward to next year. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
On the off chance someone averse to the event gets a look at this post it may be helpful to consider that Urban Shield is not about militarizing the police. It is about preparing for disasters, natural and man made. This is how first responders prepare for everything from hurricanes and earthquakes to school shootings and terrorist bombings. I understand popular objections but no joke, you want this event to happen. If you are concerned about what goes on there maybe volunteer and see for yourself instead of preventing your community first responders from training to take care of you. </div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5397166274888769721.post-10053759552376437342014-08-31T13:13:00.000-07:002014-08-31T13:13:19.600-07:00My jump bag load out<div dir="ltr">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3LkdpIbdf99HMcm-TqP0gxcvldIBJOcBCpySeQx0PznsU8aGq07g-aUVZSTv9p-7-ZUh_aMfvLx4W8Gr1zznOWijVuXiZPdq56lS0A77AAcsNaS0U15JIXWQK6Kyo_6l0U1RcW0dPBHE/s640/IMG_20140824_214438.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3LkdpIbdf99HMcm-TqP0gxcvldIBJOcBCpySeQx0PznsU8aGq07g-aUVZSTv9p-7-ZUh_aMfvLx4W8Gr1zznOWijVuXiZPdq56lS0A77AAcsNaS0U15JIXWQK6Kyo_6l0U1RcW0dPBHE/s640/IMG_20140824_214438.jpg" height="150" width="200" /></a>After a lot of years of BLS, ALS and pre-hospital trauma training through sources as varied as Scouting and Red Cross to the DOD, I have completed my EMR training and testing both filling in some gaps and bringing many disparate skills together in one functional body of knowledge. It's been a very positive experience that I am currently expanding to pursue EMT and PHTLS/TCCC certifications as well. After being an incidental first responder even before completing my EMR, I decided it was time to build a more serious jump bag for my volunteer activities with groups like NERT and the US Coast Guard and a trauma kit to pack in my messenger bag when I'm working as a bike messenger in San Francisco.</div>
<div dir="ltr">
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr">
It seems that this is a challenge for a lot of newly certified EMR/EMT students that don't have the cash to buy pre-assembled kit from <a href="http://www.galls.com/?PMSRCE=03850030&gclid=CPeg4oCjvsACFSpo7AodSAQAzQ" target="_blank">Galls</a> or some other supplier who sell well thought out and complete kits starting at around $100 with nicer and more complete kits being upwards of $200-$300. Again, these are really nice and well thought out to include most things a first responder might need. Some consideration should be given to the idea that a jump bag should only contain things the person using it will be trained to use, but anyone who takes actual EMS courses will know what the items in a commercially assembled kit are for and know how to use them. In my case I was less trying to include every imaginable thing and more concerned with having enough of the basics while making room for critical items. There is no perfect or even "standard" kit. Mine is currently evolving both as I add things and increase my training level.</div>
<div dir="ltr">
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr">
What I am not currently carrying in either bag is oxygen and cervical collars. A collar is too big for my smaller kit and the mini oxygen bottle is just too expensive right now. However both would be welcome additions and I'll likely be including both in the larger bag at some point. There are a couple other, "nice to have" items like a pulse oxymeter and a stop watch I added but other than O2 and a collar I'm pretty set. I don't anticipate needing those things on my own anyway but you just never know.My smaller kit was something I put together with things I needed for class(had to carry them around anyway), a few things I bought and several items that were kindly given to me from friends in the medical industry. The larger bag is a similar set up that started out as a very basic Galls kit someone gave me that was then expanded a lot with other items as they were introduced to my scope of practice. There is nothing in either kit that I have not been trained to use. </div>
<div dir="ltr">
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr">
I'm finding there is a minimum set of things I feel comfortable with like , gloves/compression bandage/tape and then the more complete load out with what you might expect any EMT to need. Even a kit as simple as the IPOK(individual officers patrol kit) that contains about four items in its simplest incarnation, saves lives. It also fits in a cargo or jacket pocket. It should be something every high school student knows how to use. </div>
<div dir="ltr">
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr">
Bottom line, even if you only carry a pair of nitrile gloves, you should be carrying something with you at all times. </div>
<div dir="ltr">
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr">
<iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&OneJS=1&Operation=GetAdHtml&MarketPlace=US&source=ac&ref=qf_sp_asin_til&ad_type=product_link&tracking_id=dointhin-20&marketplace=amazon&region=US&placement=B006X6PA4Q&asins=B006X6PA4Q&linkId=PDY6FTMAQ6SOMOCJ&show_border=true&link_opens_in_new_window=true" style="height: 240px; width: 120px;"></p>
<p dir="ltr">
</iframe></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<!-- Blogger automated replacement: "https://images-blogger-opensocial.googleusercontent.com/gadgets/proxy?url=http%3A%2F%2Flh4.ggpht.com%2F-hBCRi3xc3IM%2FU_rAk9mKdKI%2FAAAAAAAAF_A%2FyX6BFu0BrEo%2Fs640%2FIMG_20140824_214438.jpg&container=blogger&gadget=a&rewriteMime=image%2F*" with "https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3LkdpIbdf99HMcm-TqP0gxcvldIBJOcBCpySeQx0PznsU8aGq07g-aUVZSTv9p-7-ZUh_aMfvLx4W8Gr1zznOWijVuXiZPdq56lS0A77AAcsNaS0U15JIXWQK6Kyo_6l0U1RcW0dPBHE/s640/IMG_20140824_214438.jpg" -->Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5397166274888769721.post-41264925951694064102014-04-07T22:43:00.001-07:002014-04-07T22:43:41.289-07:002nd Annual St Patrick's Day ride<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIR-PLfWSO6KVos0lddIwAYDSOShEXfcKdeF6GMle-CLsb7RDRN1dpdyuI7Tq-OZqOP-ubhi_9K4vyqnQwrG9wKXOj5lNYgyseFPbCiSY4KEnD-3O6UfYG7xluVHGp0zf8d1rUNKVJ5fw/s1600/SPM8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIR-PLfWSO6KVos0lddIwAYDSOShEXfcKdeF6GMle-CLsb7RDRN1dpdyuI7Tq-OZqOP-ubhi_9K4vyqnQwrG9wKXOj5lNYgyseFPbCiSY4KEnD-3O6UfYG7xluVHGp0zf8d1rUNKVJ5fw/s1600/SPM8.jpg" height="168" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlL2lM1xQjG35vwYcydsqyD62jF7Lr0h86e5-jRme8mB7vT324BhOG1ozgCKluPvlOVvgJK8m4UPlSXIp1y16KAIikU0jMTTODU5Pf7TwTyKGEB3u83fjUlIITE2xStCtm93eIK56B97Y/s1600/SPM4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlL2lM1xQjG35vwYcydsqyD62jF7Lr0h86e5-jRme8mB7vT324BhOG1ozgCKluPvlOVvgJK8m4UPlSXIp1y16KAIikU0jMTTODU5Pf7TwTyKGEB3u83fjUlIITE2xStCtm93eIK56B97Y/s1600/SPM4.jpg" height="133" width="200" /></a></div>
Officially the St Patrick's Day Massacre, this year was the second year for the charity ride that raises money to fund a primary school art program in San Francisco. I was pleased to be asked back for another year of pedaling and photos. There were some fantastic moments on the ride and the city delivered on it's foggy reputation. We had a great time and I got to work on my action photography skills between sprints up Hawk Hill to get in position. If only I spent every weekend photographing cycling events...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhv7kWDq_wCb7P9O3pJ4ESVziNvEUA2apgP7CkKS7pYzc0kAeuCPfkL_qYi5BFSKjPWzmKUbXw9sofeoxtBBIHXTV6tvC3ojJ0ACrEHln4DK9qu5TQCcGgx9Mv-ssw7uxF65W7r1zEEvw/s1600/SPM19.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhv7kWDq_wCb7P9O3pJ4ESVziNvEUA2apgP7CkKS7pYzc0kAeuCPfkL_qYi5BFSKjPWzmKUbXw9sofeoxtBBIHXTV6tvC3ojJ0ACrEHln4DK9qu5TQCcGgx9Mv-ssw7uxF65W7r1zEEvw/s1600/SPM19.jpg" height="133" width="200" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5CHaU1f31wRCIlwUxD8p8eInU1kdXphHFtklxmrgwDRhk-nBFFiJ8doT4Cb6V5qc-_sJeKecGlea_UKGo_EtWX3vuiPsdXYmyQR_H1ngn7Jn0FRBRXkrL0qL_hG-SYnT4jWE0boogyZ4/s1600/SPM52.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5CHaU1f31wRCIlwUxD8p8eInU1kdXphHFtklxmrgwDRhk-nBFFiJ8doT4Cb6V5qc-_sJeKecGlea_UKGo_EtWX3vuiPsdXYmyQR_H1ngn7Jn0FRBRXkrL0qL_hG-SYnT4jWE0boogyZ4/s1600/SPM52.JPG" height="133" width="200" /></a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBXtxz1P_mnwDUSWVZy4f0_qaz6llGGXHX2SVzjHVQUH3koiuhbvpGdhMzo58Qj55ZFrTqmaNrm7fLIcOqbzb-hEX0XgltHBJj0dRyVeXIYZW8MqCJqPzj1p2CGygvNflW5FMDRygAdxg/s1600/SPM24.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBXtxz1P_mnwDUSWVZy4f0_qaz6llGGXHX2SVzjHVQUH3koiuhbvpGdhMzo58Qj55ZFrTqmaNrm7fLIcOqbzb-hEX0XgltHBJj0dRyVeXIYZW8MqCJqPzj1p2CGygvNflW5FMDRygAdxg/s1600/SPM24.JPG" height="133" width="200" /></a><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqii9leZohBAqSEVSMuSuJhGk9u2a0QdKyzMfynep2DYvCJldn2wnO41zMs6BDXmOg16-gRWXybMryrsZS4aYxruFZa1t6QljTHrJgAgBwbF_ZCBXWgFVHwX3MHSreAWxvsl63Jd2zgGo/s1600/SPM40.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqii9leZohBAqSEVSMuSuJhGk9u2a0QdKyzMfynep2DYvCJldn2wnO41zMs6BDXmOg16-gRWXybMryrsZS4aYxruFZa1t6QljTHrJgAgBwbF_ZCBXWgFVHwX3MHSreAWxvsl63Jd2zgGo/s1600/SPM40.JPG" height="133" width="200" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5397166274888769721.post-78631890713314898642014-03-10T15:45:00.000-07:002014-04-09T15:47:52.537-07:00Emergency Medical Service<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7_NLO5nEtYYF933k91AdzUb0rYj5Jh8pT_G80YJxpUUaQ0H0p2rQDgjxEIs1cRflF2xBSlsDpZCETax9vyacacpi7T0FRVAXC_5WK8jsiTZAHz65blAXFEiitU3cWm3h14WxiF_0b4dY/s1600/emergency-responder-embroidered-patch.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7_NLO5nEtYYF933k91AdzUb0rYj5Jh8pT_G80YJxpUUaQ0H0p2rQDgjxEIs1cRflF2xBSlsDpZCETax9vyacacpi7T0FRVAXC_5WK8jsiTZAHz65blAXFEiitU3cWm3h14WxiF_0b4dY/s1600/emergency-responder-embroidered-patch.jpg" height="200" width="197" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7_NLO5nEtYYF933k91AdzUb0rYj5Jh8pT_G80YJxpUUaQ0H0p2rQDgjxEIs1cRflF2xBSlsDpZCETax9vyacacpi7T0FRVAXC_5WK8jsiTZAHz65blAXFEiitU3cWm3h14WxiF_0b4dY/s1600/emergency-responder-embroidered-patch.jpg"></a>Not so long ago I decided to upgrade and certify my medical training.<a href="http://www.ccsf.edu/NEW/"> City College</a> has an affordable and accredited program that feeds into the EMS community here in San Francisco and the Bay Area. A few months later I'm half way through EMR training, just earned my CPR AED for pro rescuers credentials. It certainly makes me more useful and makes for a reliable career option, one of those "not going away any time soon" jobs and a fantastic community to be a part of.</div>
<br />
<br />
In addition to learning the expected things, I'm learning how many organizations are in need of qualified medical technicians, key word being "qualified". Everyone from <a href="http://www.sf-fire.org/index.aspx?page=859">NERT/CERT</a>, search and rescue groups and schools to private corporations with facilities of any size and a staff or patrons to protect may, or at least should, be looking for certified first responders for their team. Even if the primary "job" has nothing to do with EMS, it's never a bad idea to have pre-hospital care professionals around.<br />
There are endless lists of opportunities open to motivated individuals willing to go after them and all of them have an array of payoffs that go far beyond the obvious. Considering that at one time or another all of us will have an opportunity to save a life, possibly our own or that of a loved one, we should also all be trained to do so.
<!-- Blogger automated replacement: "https://images-blogger-opensocial.googleusercontent.com/gadgets/proxy?url=http%3A%2F%2F2.bp.blogspot.com%2F-9LxeIUihAnE%2FUyDpCesFCRI%2FAAAAAAAAAoY%2F14hei21hkQ0%2Fs1600%2Femergency-responder-embroidered-patch.jpg&container=blogger&gadget=a&rewriteMime=image%2F*" with "https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7_NLO5nEtYYF933k91AdzUb0rYj5Jh8pT_G80YJxpUUaQ0H0p2rQDgjxEIs1cRflF2xBSlsDpZCETax9vyacacpi7T0FRVAXC_5WK8jsiTZAHz65blAXFEiitU3cWm3h14WxiF_0b4dY/s1600/emergency-responder-embroidered-patch.jpg" -->Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5397166274888769721.post-5933088456946557852014-01-27T04:00:00.000-08:002014-04-09T15:51:47.049-07:00Marmot Super Mica jacket<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiSqY-Iw5sRr-FWX6-AOu0RfwMjoJXukqGyXeX98UmOsUs-REuXyOAfFBrQ4HE8XH7oSyjx9CV-EJAJ_rfX_LD_aiIroEKrsS4x-4z_CINJXw_0JQsPUGE-IB-_8dYuIHxQm2PRc15LKk/s1600/Super+mica.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiSqY-Iw5sRr-FWX6-AOu0RfwMjoJXukqGyXeX98UmOsUs-REuXyOAfFBrQ4HE8XH7oSyjx9CV-EJAJ_rfX_LD_aiIroEKrsS4x-4z_CINJXw_0JQsPUGE-IB-_8dYuIHxQm2PRc15LKk/s1600/Super+mica.jpg" height="200" width="200" /></a></div>
Since becoming a Blackburn Ranger and a more serious "adventure rider", I discovered some holes in my gear. Some literal and some metaphorical. In the case of needing a lightweight storm shell it was both. I'd been riding around in a really nice shell jacket from Chrome Industries, I loved the thing. It wasn't super water resistant and certainly not waterproof or breathable but it was a good jacket until I got in a wreck and took it for a slide across the pavement. It never was adequate for really getting out there, more a good looking, cycling specific thing that wold get you the rest of the way to your destination if it started to rain.<br />
<br />
I had been trying to lay hands on a bicycle specific jacket when friend at Marmot offered help with anything I might need. Having seen the Super Mica in a couple stores but not having the budget for it I was stoked. At 9oz the jacket is as lightweight as could be hoped for in a waterproof breathable. It's also single layer so there isn't a lot of garment to fight with and while it's light, it stops wind to the degree that you often don't miss having a lined jacket. Often, being able to manage warmth with base layers instead of having a jacket that is too warm is a serious bonus. It's become my go to jacket for cycling, climbing and travel in general.<br />
<br />
I've been wearing it quite a bit for a few months now and it's holding up well. There's a small amount of abrading at the cuff and on the hood but the reinforced areas on the shoulders are good and so far I haven't noticed any thinning or failure of the waterproof fabric itself. Seems to be holding up at least as well as my Air Force issue Gore-tex stuff at a fraction of the weight. Granted it was designed for very different environments and activities but it breathes far better than my Gore gear has. I have been asked by a couple of people who also have the Super Mica if mine was "de-lamming" and while they said they had issues with the lining separating, as noted, I have not. I am admittedly cautious with mine having experienced Gore product self destructing as well as habitually protecting my sailing gear, something equally hard to replace and miserable when it fails underway. It is rumored that Marmot is developing a new version of the Super Mica but I can't personally confirm it.<br />
<br />
It's one of those pieces of gear that I'm thankful to have had help affording but recommend to anyone, even at full retail. It's worth the money and I'm not one to say that lightly.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5397166274888769721.post-49646776959109106232014-01-23T22:00:00.000-08:002014-01-27T21:05:19.629-08:00Lighting for carnivorous plants<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsqaSssPZoQieZaNFxrilDG-LiXb2rZYMVl8i37_TiHc8a5-G4CDaLIKf1a5GF9-mQxjjeCk7S-Qrr-qHWbnooVZBHgtpu5Iy5ykbrmmzuP4B0N7qfmXMLsl7u-CKn4-9YvKvDemDIJ1c/s1600/F5HOXLNGEW03Q2G.LARGE.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsqaSssPZoQieZaNFxrilDG-LiXb2rZYMVl8i37_TiHc8a5-G4CDaLIKf1a5GF9-mQxjjeCk7S-Qrr-qHWbnooVZBHgtpu5Iy5ykbrmmzuP4B0N7qfmXMLsl7u-CKn4-9YvKvDemDIJ1c/s1600/F5HOXLNGEW03Q2G.LARGE.jpg" height="133" width="200" /></a></div>
A while back I wrote a post about a project I did at Instructables.com putting together a<a href="http://www.instructables.com/id/Carnivorous-Plant-Terrarium/" target="_blank"> carnivorous plant terrarium</a>. It was fun, it looked great and it was a much bigger learning experience than I could have imagined. I learned about the plants, terrariums, the <a href="http://www.instructables.com/id/Potting-soil-for-carnivorous-plants/" target="_blank">soil for those same plants</a> that is certainly on the tricky side as is the water. It mostly just needs to be as "clean" as possible, meaning both chemical and nutrient free. Dissolved mineral content in soil and water will readily kill otherwise healthy carnivorous plants. This is probably why they are a seasonal or temporary curiosity for most people. A few months in and the plants mysteriously die or for other seemingly unpredictable reasons they do fine and keep on going. Even educated growers often experience difficulty rearing these finicky bug eating wonders.<br />
<br />
Someone over at Instructables commented recently asking about lighting. I don't think I really addressed that issue in my how to or the subsequent how to on soil for carnivorous plants. Mine lived in a big jar in a sunny window where they had bright light most of the day. A lot of us don't have access to those conditions, including me now that I am no longer with Instructables.<br />
<br />
Luckily, carnivorous plants do well with artificial lighting so even basement dwellers can put together a lovely hungry garden. There is even a fantastically detailed article on the<a href="http://www.carnivorousplants.org/howto/SoilsWater/Lighting.php" target="_blank"> International Carnivorous Plant Society</a> website that explains the lumens, color temperature and hours per day the plants need. There are many commonly available lighting setups or you could just buy LEDs and build your own. With the ease of controlling LEDs with Arduinos and Raspberry Pie microcomputers you could automate the whole thing from lighting to temp and hydrometers. Though, a lot of people have great luck stuffing the plants in a jar and setting them on a handy window sill.<br />
<br />
As always, it's hard to beat "doing" as the best way to learn.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1