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ALPS Mountaineering has debuted a new backpacking tent in two sizes. Helix one- and two-person tents are based on a three-pole mesh tent and rain-fly configuration. The tents have minimum weights of 2 pounds, 14 ounces, or 3 pounds, 12 ounces for the one- and two-person models respectively, and boast a packed size of 5X16 or 6X18 inches.
These free-standing tents utilize 7000-series aluminum poles and lightweight aluminum hardware for support. Both the floor and fly are made of 20-denier 380T nylon ripstop, with the floor receiving a 3000 mm silicone/pu coating and the fly a 2000 mm silicone/pu coating that resists UV damage. The fly offers full coverage for maximum weather protection and, along with the floor, has factory-sealed seams.
Practical and ergonomic features include roof ventilation to minimize moisture buildup, mesh storage pockets, and vestibule storage to accommodate gear. Assembly is quick thanks to snap-on pole clips, 7075 aluminum stakes, and guy lines for anticipated high-wind conditions.
Both Helix tents are offered in Charcoal/Red and have an 84-inch floor length, with a 35-inch width for the 1-Person tent and 54 inches for the 2-Person model. The Helix 1-Person is built with a single door and vestibule while the Helix 2-Person includes two doors and two vestibules, so that each camper has room to stow their personal gear. For more information, check out alpsmounatineering.com. MSRP: $219.99-$249.99
Leupold & Stevens, Inc. has launched its LCO Pro F2 red-dot sight, combining optical clarity, reliability and purpose-built features in a full-sized red dot.
I am heartened by this year’s entries. In addition to fabulous photographs, almost all of you delivered exceptional narratives of your hunts. We used your very words wherever possible because it’s an honor to see you all rise to such an occasion as sharing a special moment with your fellow hunters. You now know a little bit about what drives an outdoor writer. —J. Scott Olmsted, Editor in Chief
On July 17 the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) published a proposed rulemaking change on the Federal Register that, if approved, would allow western states to better manage their grizzly bear population. Despite their burgeoning population the big bruins remain on the “endangered” list under the Endangered Species Act (ESA), a fact that has paralyzed regional conservation efforts, impacted other wildlife populations and dramatically increased human/bear conflicts.
ALPS Mountaineering has released its Micro Air portable air pump. Compact and convenient, this pump packs a punch of inflation and is small enough to be hooked to a keychain without sticking out. This air pump delivers plenty of power without worrying about a battery going dead because it is connected to an external power bank.