Do you guys have a piece of legendary gear?

[Benjisan]

I mean a piece of outdoor gear that has been with you for years and never failed you and you would never leave home without?

The only thing I owned that would even remotely come close was my old synthetic blanket from the military. That thing was so soft, warm, and versatile. It was great for the summer, packed down small, and made a great pillow...just an awesome piece of gear. In the military we called this type of blanket a woobie...I kid you not. You'd hear grown men armed with automatic weapons saying things like, "Ah man, I can't find my woobie!" Man I miss that thing.

Anyway, do you guys have a legendary piece of gear?

[Bighead]

I mean a piece of outdoor gear that has been with you for years and never failed you and you would never leave home without?

The only thing I owned that would even remotely come close was my old synthetic blanket from the military. That thing was so soft, warm, and versatile. It was great for the summer, packed down small, and made a great pillow...just an awesome piece of gear. In the military we called this type of blanket a woobie...I kid you not. You'd hear grown men armed with automatic weapons saying things like, "Ah man, I can't find my woobie!" Man I miss that thing.

Anyway, do you guys have a legendary piece of gear?
X2 for the poncho liner.

[mightymike]

I'd have to say my Leatherman tool. It's been with me for about 15 years, before there were a lot of other "multi-tools" around. It's with me at work every day and every adventure (and misadventure) I've been on since I've had it. I've got a small Gerber pocketknife that is a close second.

[flywgn]

I believe my "Tool, entrenching" has been with us for 47 years. Does that qualify as 'lengendary'? :archaeolo

We also have a mess kit knife that has been sharpened so much that the blade is now only 7/16ths width instead of the 7/8ths. We like those knives so much that we look for them in flea markets and have managed to add a couple to mine. Wonderful carbon steel.

Allen R

[Scott Brady]

Awesome thread idea :D

I would say the first piece of gear that comes to mind is my Everest down sleeping bag. My dad gave it to me at least ten years ago, and he must have had it another ten before that. It is rectangular, still has great loft and has been with me everywhere, including Africa.

[Grim Reaper]

Still using the sleeping bag my folks bought me when I was like 10 and going to camp. Have a set that zip togher when the wife and I camp but if I am solo I take my 30 year old bag.

I also have the pup tent my folks used in the early 60's, possibly the late 50's. They Rode with the Highway Men motor cycle club Detroit.

Still in pretty good shape.

Ohhh hell this is cool. Here is a picture of my mom 4 years before I was born, the tent and my dads 1961 69RS 600 BMW. These were slides my sister scanned and cleaned up.

[njtaco]

We still use my Grandparent's Camp Kitchen. Grandpa made it himself, dimentions to fit a 1966 VW station wagon. That makes it a couple of years older than I am, and in nearly continuous use since new. Most of the time, my wife "makes" me bring it whether we are tenting or trailer camping, because it is so handy. Everything we need, easily at hand. I only complain at its weight, when loaded.

[kd_walmsley]

Esbit stove and heat tabs. They can make the difference between a “No ****, there I was!” story and a dust-off/life flight. Times three on the poncho liner when combined with poncho. 10 meters of 550 cord has a multitude of uses. These are all high value items for me and have a place in all my vehicles. Any object that works unfailingly for decades in a high-risk environment is a must have.

[offroadchef]

We still use my Grandparent's Camp Kitchen. Grandpa made it himself, dimentions to fit a 1966 VW station wagon. That makes it a couple of years older than I am, and in nearly continuous use since new. Most of the time, my wife "makes" me bring it whether we are tenting or trailer camping, because it is so handy. Everything we need, easily at hand. I only complain at its weight, when loaded.


Are there any pics to see?

Markus

[BogusBlake]

I'd have to say my legendary piece of gear is my Eureka! Timberline two person tent.

When I was 16, I got my first job and that tent was the first thing I ever bought with a legal paycheck.

I've carried that tent hundreds of miles through AZ and NM and I take it on just about every camping trip I go on. I can set it up in the dark, the rain, or the wind. The seams have never leaked and the zippers have never jammed.

One of these days I'm going to buy the 4 person Outfitter model.

[gjackson]

Kelly kettle. Works like a champ and is my friend every morning (except the ones where Scott has his crazy volcano stove going!)

cheers

[devinsixtyseven]

I don't know if I've been doing this long enough to have legendary gear, but for me, it's a pair of Red Wing steel toe boots, all leather, with heavy nylon over the heel and steel toe wear areas. I've only had them about ten years, but they are far and away my favorite footwear, once they were broken in and the blisters healed. I don't know how many times they've saved me from sprained or broken ankles--the boot comes up about six inches over my ankle.

Now, with molded inserts, they're also the most comfortable footwear I have for a long day, whether it's standing around in Nevada for 14 hours in the desert heat, muddy sandy hiking in Moab, light snow in the mountains, working in the garage, airplane flights, or just wearing them to work. I originally got them for surveying in Alaska, soaked them in mink oil and they were essentially waterproof. Theyre due for another soaking.

-Sean

[elcoyote]

I've got to say that it would be my trusty Optimus 99. I bought it when I was 16 for my first climb of Mt. Kenya (gulp, that's 32 years ago...dang I'm getting old). I have used this stove and self contained cooking pot on every foot bound back country trip I have taken. I guess I'll have to be buried with it :hehe:

[Sgt Grunt]

Mine would have to be my Ka-bar, USMC fighting knife... It traveled with me to every clime and place... Pictures to follow.

[upcruiser]

For me its my Lowe Alpine Contour IV internal frame pack. I had it for about 10 years and it is awesome. Tons of adjustability, huge carrying capacity (more then you really need alot of the time), and uber durable. I'm planning on keeping it for a really long time.

[toyrunner95]

i got a few pieces of gear, 1. my leatherman, its on me almost every day and i even wore it to my sisters wedding in a tux. 2. my kabar its great for entrenching, pounding in tent stakes, chopping wood, cooking, everything. 3. my REI tent its been up rainier twice with me and all over the NW on hiking trips. 4. my grappeling hook. yes thats right a ninja grappeling hook. its rather heavy but it pulls trucks out of holes, goes over branches for bear bags, and even works as a dredge for lost crab pots.

[rusty_tlc]

I only have two pieces of gear I haven't been able to wear out. Sleeping bags and tents have come and gone, replaced by newer technology or just plain worn out. But two things are still around
The Universal external frame packpack I got it for Christmas when I was 12. Pretty well battered and repaired but still in the storage shed and still very servicable.
And my Sevea Optimus stove. This one still sees regular use.
This isnt mine but this is what mine looked like new;

[KMR]

Victorinox pocket knife, has not been out of my pocket for a single day in the past 18 years.
I have the original kind with the red painted body, all the paint has since been worn off except for in the checker grooves.
Feel naked without it.

[RoundOut]

For me, it would have to be the Leatherman Wave. I use it every day, almost without exception. Absolutely the best $65 bucks I ever spent. The scissors, knives, files, saw, screwdrivers and pliers each see almost weekly use, with the scissors, files and knives seeing the most. Heck, the pliers see almost as much, too. Truly a great tool.

[Boston Mangler]

I got a 12 year old LL Bean 4 Season Expedition tent that has seen well over 100+ nights of use in some of the gnarliest weather imaginable and still looks new

and

I got a 12 year old LL Bean -30 Down Mummy bag that has been used and abused without flaw with the above item!

This is stuff i have used extensively myself and have loaned these items out to friends as well!

Even if its warm out, i bring that bag "Just in Case"

LLBean has my vote for sure! (their older stuff, their new stuff isnt so well made)

I also have an OLD SCHOOL EMS down bag that is stamped "MANUFACTURED 1977" that my girlfriend swears is the warmest thing in the world (she gets cold easy). When i was back east, i brought it to my local EMS and showed it to the old school manager and he was begging me to sell it because it had their very first logo on it! It is still used by Judy on every trip we do!

:camping:

[Rezarf <><]

My MSR Stowaway Pot and Wisperlite International are still running strong and I have owned three other stoves since... and I keep heading back to the dead set reliabilty of the MSR Stove/Pot setup.

Gotta love the classics.

Drew

[ZooJunkie]

My MSR Stowaway Pot and Wisperlite International are still running strong and I have owned three other stoves since... and I keep heading back to the dead set reliabilty of the MSR Stove/Pot setup.

Gotta love the classics.

Drew

I agree! I've had my MSR Whisperlite stove for about 12 years now, it has never failed me. I always bring along in case it's needed. Awesome tool. I never leave home w/o a knife, and in particular my Emerson CQC7 tanto blade knife. The image linked below is not the tanto blade version.

http://www.heinnie.com/Emerson/EK-100.jpg

[dd113]

I bought a sleeping bag from Yak Works in about '77. Thinsulate and early protptype gore tex. I think it was the first thinsulate bag made. Still going strong; been all over NA and SA as well as a trip to the sandbox.

[Mike S]

I have been collecting gear for a LOOONG time. Best yet is the Petromax three fuel lantern. I won't camp without it.

http://www.hunt101.com/img/375214.jpg

[Linus Tremaine]

This one is my legendary knife. I have had others of course, but this one has been with me the most. My mom got it for me when I was 13 in Bridgeport, CA.

Its special because it has a long locking blade. Not something most swiss army knives have. I eat with it, cook with it, clean things with it, make things and sometimes cut things with it.

I also have a small marble compass that my dad got me. Its newer but it has joined the ranks of must haves on my trips.

I guess my cast iron frying pan is up there too...
See the knife in the picture? Its on the box of matches. This is at russ' camp in butte valley, death valley NP. Running water and a stove that saved me from freezing.

And of course, the land rover... cant go anywhere without that.

[ckkone]

This might be stupid, but I've had this Sears Robogrip for about the past 10 years...It has been in the armrest of all my vehicles over the years and it always amazes me how many uses it has, from holding, to bending to tightening it seems to do it all. I also have a canteen I got for a gift when I was around 12 that still sees plenty of use. I'll try to post some pics later..

[Desertoutpost]

Its not gear but it means just as much to me if not more, than my tent, knife, cook stove, or sleeping bag...

I have this hat, not any hat but a very special hat to me. I would fight for this hat and defend it to the end. What would you ask, is so special about that hat? Why would that hat be anymore special than yours, or hers, or theirs? Let me tell you...

That hat is brown and round, that hat was bought from a bloke down under, that hat has traveled with me from one end of this country to the other end (48 states), that hat fits me just perfectly, that hat has that little bend right here---> that makes it snug as a rug over my mug, when the wind blows it stays on, when it rains it keep my eyes dry, keeps my head warm in winter and cool in summer, has a little joey on the inside upper, and is made from all natural sources, alas it is starting to show its age, has a little spot here ---> and another there ----> but in the end what makes that hat so special to me is...

One day I had a son and when he started to travel with me he woke one morning and put on the hat, that is when I knew why that hat was so special to me, because he put it on and has worn it on every trip we have gone on together and he is what makes that hat for me more special than any trip I would see. This hat has been passed quietly to someone special to me, in that hat you see!

:)


http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a346/hotrodtuna/KimsCamera404.jpg

[kcowyo]

Very Chris LeDoux, Desertoutpost.....;)

"Now partner this old hat is better left alone
see it used to be my daddy's
but, last year he passed on
My nephew skined the rattler that makes up this ol' hatband
but, back in sixty nine he died in Vietnam
Now the eagle feather was given to me by an indian friend of mine
but, someone ran he down somewhere around that Arizona line
and a real special lady gave me this hatpin
and I don't know if I'll ever see her again

You'll ride a black tornado 'cross the western sky
rope an ol' Blue Northern and milk it till it's dry
bulldog the Mississippi, pin it's ears down flat
long before you take this Cowboys Hat."

[Shovel]

three things come to mind...


Roebucks "frankenstein boots"... bought about 7 years ago, weigh 4 tons, and are eternal like the wind. They took a solid 6 months to break in, and will probably bury me. I run twice as fast in any "athletic" duty boot, but burn through 'em two pair of those in a year.... the Roebucks get used harder and cannot be killed by conventional means. I am not nice to shoes. If they still made 'em, I'd buy 5 more pair... not that I'd ever need them.

Camillus Becker TacTool also incapable of being damaged by earthly forces, I've had this one not quite as long as the Roebucks boots - but I fear what apocalyptic event might transpire should they ever clash with one another. I've split a few cords of logs, prepared 3 dozen meals, mounted a freakin tire, dismantled a dog house, eviscerated a steel basket subwoofer and enclosure, slashed miles of brush and branches, and killed 2 snakes with this tool and could practically sell it as a brand new instrument today. God himself is jealous that I have one and he doesn't. If they still made 'em, I'd buy 5 more. Because some jerk's probably gonna steal mine eventually :(

Coleman red steel ice chest, I think Mom bought it around '73? It's starting to show its level of experience by now... the drain plug's lost one of its ears and the bottom insulation is a little beat.. it's just a Ninja and not a force of nature like the other two items on this list. They allow it to exist only because they respect its quiet tenacity and its wisdom from age, experience, the billion miles it has traveled, and the countless sammiches it has solemnly guarded from pulverization and putrefication. It has survived the wrath of dead fish, the gauntlet that is Burning Man, and the odd "wardrobe malfunction" AKA falling off the truck at speed. Truly a chest of the ages.



http://img393.imageshack.us/img393/9839/dscn4472da1.th.jpg (http://img393.imageshack.us/my.php?image=dscn4472da1.jpg)

Added to that picture are a couple of other items that have not yet earned the title of Legendary, but are getting there.

Swiss Armed Forces rucksack, supposedly 1960s issue IIRC. Spent 6 months with me while I was "drifting" aka voluntarily homeless.. and has been part of my standard travel kit for the 10+ years since then both on business flights and vehicle expeditions. Carries easily, shows no sign of damage, and is a marvelous example of K.I.S.S. gear. Has been machine washed definitely more than 100 times since I took ownership. I should probably try to find some more of these to keep around.

CRKT Mt. Rainier folding pocket knife, would be legendary if it could hold an edge. Truly a half-god with a mortal side, though I will say in CRKT's defense that they sent me a whole replacement knife when I sent a constructive complaint letter about the poor edge retention. I swapped the blade into my old frame, just 'cause the weathered frame feels better. I know it's all in my head. I've carried this tool near-daily for 8 years despite its need for frequent sharpenings, because it fits my hand very well. I'm kinda looking for a replacement that I like... current top contender is a recently acquired Spyderco... great edge but not so natural in my hand.

Cheap refillable lighter, bought 5 years ago for about $4. Always works in any wind or rain, and most interestingly it's one of the only lighters I've managed to keep more than a couple months without it mysteriously disappearing. It used to even illuminate. I'd probably buy another and retire this one, if I saw one just like it in a store.

Targus purse... ahh, this one truly will become a satchel of legend, why it may even some day stand beside the mighty TacTool and unholy Roebucks boots. My brother in law got it as a freebie at a trade show about 6 years ago & gave it to me. When asked, "why do you not show signs of wear?" it has been known to punch babies and cause rifts in space/time as a diversionary measure. Has a faint and inexplicable yet seemingly permanent chocolate scent which survives washings. Not exactly a magic satchel (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hammerspace) due to prevailing physics inherent to the world in which we live, this purse simulates hammerspace quite admirably, often containing two full changes of clothes, toiletries and electronic gear as well as food and literature. It would not be difficult to prepare for the contingency of a week in *any* earthly situation using only what fits within storage constraints of this bag. But that's nothing. This sucker can be worn by heterosexual men. In public.

Oh yeah, it'll be legend someday. I'd buy 5 more if they still made them.

[Moody]

The classic North Face Nuptse down jacket. I originally got one when I was going on a winter boy scout trip. It lasted many years until I finally sold its nastiness (dirty mess) on ebay for 50 bucks, and bought a newer version. There is just something about a big, fluffy, overstuffed down coat. Even in the coldest of camp trips, I stay nice and warm. It has been on multiple winter camping trips, and gets used almost daily in the winter.

#2 is certainly the Coleman Lantern I used when I was a kid camping with the family. Still going strong over 30 years later...(my parents got it as a wedding gift) using it this weekend as well!

[BMAN]

Shovel,

This one? http://www.fernknives.com/images/BK-BK3medium.gif

That's a good looking unit. I might need to track one down.



I can't say that I have a piece of gear that I revere as the go to gear that is ALWAYS with me. The only item I seem to alwways have on every trip is the trusty 4cell Mag light that's been with me for about 15 years now. It's always kinda been that trusty old friend when I need to shed some light but not a GO TO type of gear thing for me.

[j_nigrelli]

this one?

http://seattle.craigslist.org/est/clo/443220187.html

doesn't look too "expedition-y"

[Shovel]

Shovel,

This one? http://www.fernknives.com/images/BK-BK3medium.gif

That's a good looking unit. I might need to track one down.


That's my unit all right! Over a foot long and blunt on the end, feels great in my hand. I've been in the bush a lot with that unit and it's always been a rigid tool when I needed it - no matter how scary the bush was. I can only hope my unit will remain dependable as it ages - I use it a lot, literally every weekend I'm whackin' it against something and sometimes during the week as well. The first time I showed it to Joni, we were camping and she said she was cold - so I pulled it out and got to work. 5 minutes later I had all the wood I needed to warm her up, and in no time we were enjoying the heat - all thanks to my unit.

(ok I give up)

These things are starting to get hard (heh) to find since they aren't made anymore. Union disagreements forced the manufacturer - Camillus - to go out of business, which is really unfortunate given how exceptional their products really were. If you can find a TacTool on ebay or whatever, GRAB THAT UNIT!!!

[Shovel]

this one?

http://seattle.craigslist.org/est/clo/443220187.html


Nope... the blue-ish nylon bag in my picture, that's the Targus purse bag thing. I've not found one anywhere online... wish I could. Best bag I've ever owned, witnessed, or even heard of.


doesn't look too "expedition-y"
looks are only looks. what matters is "what does it do and how well does it do it?"

[j_nigrelli]

sorry; never looked above the description.


update edit: i just recieved my Brigade Quartermaster catalog. the picture of Maxpedition Colossus Versipack item #MAX30 looks similar.

these ones any good?

[toyrunner95]

That's my unit all right! Over a foot long and blunt on the end, feels great in my hand. I've been in the bush a lot with that unit and it's always been a rigid tool when I needed it - no matter how scary the bush was. I can only hope my unit will remain dependable as it ages - I use it a lot, literally every weekend I'm whackin' it against something and sometimes during the week as well. The first time I showed it to Joni, we were camping and she said she was cold - so I pulled it out and got to work. 5 minutes later I had all the wood I needed to warm her up, and in no time we were enjoying the heat - all thanks to my unit.
GRAB THAT UNIT!!!

you know, if there wasnt a picture....

o and i found your "unit"
http://www.imsplus.com/ims8b.html

[craig]

MSR XGKII Stove - Everything the Whisperlite is, but burns multiple fuels. Noisy, messy white gas, and you can't cook pancakes on it evenly.. BUT, it always works and is field repairable when it doesn't. It boils water fast at any elevation and at any temperature. It isn't sexy like my Jetboil, but it is trustworthy.

Ramsey RE12000 Worm Drive Winch - Slow, but keeps going when all the planetary winches are overheated. Works even if the engine isn't running.

My Dog

[Shovel]

o and i found your "unit"
http://www.imsplus.com/ims8b.html

Sadly that's a knock-off... may still be cool but it ain't a Tac Tool :(

[Shovel]

sorry; never looked above the description.
No need to be sorry, friend! :) :beer: :peepwall: T

[adventureduo]

I use a coleman lantern from the 1970's.. dont know if that qualifies for lengendary... or not... but it works flawlessly to this day. It was my dads so it means more to me after he passed.

[mountainpete]

I had to think about this one for a while.

At first I felt it was a handmade flyrod I have. To me, it's beautiful and I love it. Lots of memories in that rod.

But the more I thought about it, I went back to my trusty Spyderco Delica knife. It's always with me (when I'm not in a suit at least!) and I have used it thousands of times. It's cut cheese, bread, trout, rope and my thumb all in one afternoon.

Pete

[Spikepretorius]

Browning 9mm. Hasn't left my hip in 26 years

[Lynn]

I've got a 'P-38' can opener that my father was issued when he was in the Korean 'conflict.'

He gave it to me when I was in cub scouts (about 35 years ago). Served me well up through Boy Scouts, and on hunting trips.

Went with me when I lived in Korea, Spain, Germany, Turkey...

I used to carry it on my keyring 24/7, but quit a couple of years ago. I got tired of occasionally jamming the little point under my fingernail when reaching into my pocket. Now it's relegated to the camping box.

[dieselcruiserhead]

great thread...

My legendary peices of gear:
I had a yellow patagonia 3 layer shell that took more abuse than I can recall. I had it for years and years, skied, biked, treked, backpacked, hiked, fed dogs water, spilled oil on it. It got ugly and hideous and my fiancee eventually borderline required me to get a new coat just because of cosmetics but it still held up like no other. Then a friend suggested once that I casually talk to someone about "trading it in due to the filth" as Patagonia has an unreal policy about trade ins, and the person offered me a new coat right then and there (could not believe it considering its blatently abused condition). The replacement was a 2 layer I used for a year then tore (honestly probably not the coat's fault) but I took it in to get repaired and they gave me another! This time a winter specific (so I can't use it all season any more) but the new one is nice and genuine Gore Tex. So I bought a light shell for non winter from Mountain Hardware that also seems super tough and now am using two. But that Patagonia shell was just phenominal. I'm sure I have a photo of it somewhere...

Second, a pair of Goretex EMS ski pants, that I also had for 6-7 years of skiing including several 100+ days in college. Still have them, they are still water proof, just hammered...

Third, Whisperlight International Stove. No more info needed :)

Fouth: My Lowe Alpine backpacks, a Kanga Himal I've had since I was 16, the largest Lowe they made that the time, and a day pack I have that I did trail work with for 5 years and still held up rock solid. They sent me a new one rather than fixing the zipper when it blew out and sadly the replacement was stolen and I don't even remember what it was called... But a great backpack...

Finally: my Land Cruiser.. Particularly my HJ60 diesel land cruiser that was 100% solid as a rock and this way from the factory, even with 175K. Never left me stranded, not even once, even at 20 below having not been started in 2-3 weeks and under 3 feet of snow in Alta at midnight, and it was diesel! I'm hoping to build this new on into just as good a piece of gear as well :)

[Streakerfreak]

I'd have to say my legendary piece of gear is my Eureka! Timberline two person tent.

When I was 16, I got my first job and that tent was the first thing I ever bought with a legal paycheck.

I've carried that tent hundreds of miles through AZ and NM and I take it on just about every camping trip I go on. I can set it up in the dark, the rain, or the wind. The seams have never leaked and the zippers have never jammed.

One of these days I'm going to buy the 4 person Outfitter model.


Yeah, same here. Mine has been all over the world and stood up through 3 tropical storms, hail, and a bunch of other stuff. I always like watching everyones dome and cheap walmart tents rolling across a field. Its the #1 Boy Scout tent too.

[BMAN]

Browning 9mm. Hasn't left my hip in 26 years

Bet that's a little precarious when in bed with the missus. Or in the shower. Or getting a physical. Or any other place where a person might find themselves without pants.

[mountainpete]

Bet that's a little precarious when in bed with the missus. Or in the shower. Or getting a physical. Or any other place where a person might find themselves without pants.

Hee hee... must make target practice tough too... :shakin:

Pete

[Shovel]

Browning 9mm. Hasn't left my hip in 26 years

My preferred "everyday" (really I only touch it once or twice a year when I go to the range for self-qualification) is also a Browning HP MKIII 9mm pistol.

Lousy accuracy but that's tolerable at the range of engagement likely in defense of home - I just like the machine and how it behaves otherwise. I keep it with a mag of blue glasers in the house & hope I never have to use it anywhere other than the range.

(in contrast the Astra 600 9mm I keep stored is almost like having a rifle where accuracy is concerned.. but i hate everything else about it)

[GaryMc]

My old school Gerber multi-tool, the one before the safety locks. I found it on the side of the road in Texas and it won't leave.

My Petzl Tikka headlamp, it just won't die.

[Spikepretorius]

Bet that's a little precarious when in bed with the missus
Bwaahhaaaaaa. :)
No seriously, without starting a whole gun debate please, a gun in storage isn't worth a dime. It's like having a child. If you make the commitment then that's it. Surfing, waterskiing, motor racing, in bed with the missus, whatever, I make a plan to keep it with me.

In SA it's a major criminal offence if it goes missing. You have to have it on your person or in a safe. In a safe doesn't cut it for me.

[snipecatcher]

My Cold Steel Bad axe. Sure, it's evil looking, and somewhat made for throwing. It's lightweight, stays VERY SHARP, and the toughest axe I've ever had the pleasure of using. Stays in my truck and gets used to cut down brush, cut down trees, dig holes, and gets thrown at stuff when I'm bored. It has battle scars from glancing off trees/rocks, but is still as tight as the day I bought it. Here's a picture of one.
http://www.gpknives.com/item/cold-steel-bad-axe.html

[Green Ganesha]

Camillus Becker TacTool also incapable of being damaged by earthly forces, I've had this one not quite as long as the Roebucks boots - but I fear what apocalyptic event might transpire should they ever clash with one another. I've split a few cords of logs, prepared 3 dozen meals, mounted a freakin tire, dismantled a dog house, eviscerated a steel basket subwoofer and enclosure, slashed miles of brush and branches, and killed 2 snakes with this tool and could practically sell it as a brand new instrument today. God himself is jealous that I have one and he doesn't. If they still made 'em, I'd buy 5 more. Because some jerk's probably gonna steal mine eventually.

Shovel, you inspired me to go looking. I found a brand-new Camillus Becker TacTool on eBay (http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&rd=1&item=110178436024). Ended up costing only $56. It's definitely built to last! Thanks for the tip.

After watching a few auctions, it looks like they're typically going for $75-$100, with But It Now prices of $100-$200.

[VWVagabonds]

Every drop of water that has passed our lips (well, almost every one) for the past year has gone through our Katadyn Water Filter (http://www.vwvagabonds.com/Bike/BikeWaterFilter.html). It has saved us many hundreds of dollars and has saved the dump from thousands of little plastic bottle.

http://www.vwvagabonds.com/Bike/images/BikeWaterFilter.jpg


The Orikaso Foldflat Plates (http://www.vwvagabonds.com/Bike/CycleCuisine.html) and Bowls. They weigh nothing, are great cutting surfaces when flat, and folded origami style work well as camp flatware.

http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/31B50Z7H7QL._SL210_.jpg

[TeriAnn]

And of course, the land rover... cant go anywhere without that.

I'd have to agree with Linus. My legendary gear is my 1960 Land Rover. March 2008 will mark 30 years since I bought her. During that time I've built many memories driving and camping in her.

Growing up, I discovered that going fishing with my dad was a way to get lots of quality one on one time. My mom & sister didn't like going fishing or camping. So the trips became our special father daughter time.

I still have a small Western sheath knife and WWII era surplus canteen and belt my dad bought for me when I was 11 or so. I haven't used them for many years, but I keep them for the memories of the times spent with my dad.

Other camping gear came and went. I had pretty much stopped back packing during college after my Parents moved about 1000 miles away. I kept my gear though. Then almost 30 years ago I learned the joys of Land Rover travel and camping and my gear focus changed from light weight to functionality. Old unused gear slowly got sold & new gear bought. Except for that little bone handled sheath knife and canteen. Other than my fishing poles, it was the only camping gear that was mine during the years my Dad and I were camping together.

[Big_Geek]

This is a great thread! I'd have to nominate the Tilley Hat. Mine is a T5, khaki/olive. I've had it for about two years and LOVE it. I almost cried when I realized I'd forgotten to take it with me to the Expedition Trophy!

[mountainpete]

This is a great thread! I'd have to nominate the Tilley Hat. Mine is a T5, khaki/olive. I've had it for about two years and LOVE it. I almost cried when I realized I'd forgotten to take it with me to the Expedition Trophy!

I love my T5 too... one problem - tough to wash out Halibut blood. :oops:

Pete

[robert]

I've got an entrenching tool that was my father's that I've carried in each of my vehicles over the years- it's stamped 1943.

I had a Eureka Timberline until about two years ago- I received it as a gift in the early/mid-eighties and carried it all over the place (lived in it for ten weeks one summer too). It had plenty of ripstop repair tape on it (in several colors) and had long since had the original zippers replaced. It finally got to the point I didn't want to put another zipper on it, it was worn thin in a few places and it smelled pretty bad.

I've got a North face Aerohead tent that's been a ton of places too- it's still in good shape.

North Face Moraine internal frame bag I received in the eighties. I've used a Gregory for the last few years though.

Coleman Peak One gas stove and Peak One single mantle lantern both from the eighties (more items from my Boy Scout days). Both work just fine and get used regularly.

I've probably got other old gear too, but nothing comes to mind at the moment.

[Green Ganesha]

This is a great thread! I'd have to nominate the Tilley Hat. Mine is a T5, khaki/olive. I've had it for about two years and LOVE it. I almost cried when I realized I'd forgotten to take it with me to the Expedition Trophy!

x3 on the Tilley Hat. Mine is a T3, olive/olive.

http://www.tilley.com/chart.html

[Big_Geek]

x3 on the Tilley Hat. Mine is a T3, olive/olive.

http://www.tilley.com/chart.html

If I bought another I'd get the T3 for the wider brim, but the T5 fits under the hood of my rain jacket and helps to hold it out giving me more "breathing room" in the rain.

[JohnnyS]

My Wiggy's Ultima Thule sleeping bag has never let me down.
I lived in it for about a year at 7200 ft. and it never let me get cold regardless of whether it was drenched, covered in snow, how cold it was out, etc..
It's looking a little rough after 12 years or so but I still know it will keep me nice and warm.
It does suck having to get out of it on a cold morning though!

[p1michaud]

This is a great thread! I'd have to nominate the Tilley Hat. Mine is a T5, khaki/olive. I've had it for about two years and LOVE it. I almost cried when I realized I'd forgotten to take it with me to the Expedition Trophy!

The venerable Tilley Hat. I've had one since 1997 that I've worn every camping trip, two trips in Europe, once Arizona and it's still in great shape! What I really love about it is when it rains the brim gets stiff and water does not drip down your neck unlike other hats. It also floats!

I was fortunate enough to visit the Tilley store in Toronto Ontario in 2000 this is also the same location as their manufacturing facility (not sure if all their products are manufactured there or not). I also had to opportunity to meet Alex Tilley right in his store. He, his wife and daughter all work there!

If you ever go to Toronto here is the address:
Flagship Store
900 Don Mills Road
Toronto, ON M3C 1V6
(416) 441-6141

When you first walk in there is a museum of sorts showign off various hats. Most of these hats are the ones descriped on the "BRAG TAGS". I saw the one that was eaten by an elephant twice and it atill looks useable! :shakin:

Cheers,
P

[p1michaud]

This thread has so many pieces of legendary gear. Way too fun.


My old school Gerber multi-tool, the one before the safety locks.
My Petzl Tikka headlamp, it just won't die.

Unfortunately I lost my old school Gerber on a canoe trip. I nearly cried… I’ve purchased two since, forgot one at the peak of Mt. Kathadin in Maine but it was never found. I finally came to the realization that I should give my last new one away because I was not worthy… My best man got it and loves it.

The Petzl Tikka headlamp is one good lamp. It’s biggest challenge was when I used it to blow in insulation in my attic. That stuff gets everywhere but it still works!


My MSR Wisperlite International

Superb stove, very reliable and light weight.


Not something most swiss army knives have.

The swiss army knife. I’ve been able to keep this one for nearly 15 years now. Funny, too bad I could not do the same with my Gerber multi tool! My Swiss Army knife goes everywhere I do.


I use a coleman lantern from the 1970's.. dont know if that qualifies for lengendary... or not... but it works flawlessly to this day. It was my dads so it means more to me after he passed.

I was surprised that no one posted up more Coleman stuff. I’ve used a coleman lartern for many years, it works great looks brand new. Great piece.

There is one item that I have recently resurrected is the old two burner Coleman Stove similar to what was posted in the attached picture by Linus Tremaine here: http://expeditionportal.com/forum/showpost.php?p=111541&postcount=25

I have owned one of these stoves for many years now and it was originally purchased by my grandfather. My grandmother gave it to my when he passed away. This old stove is bent, rusted, re-painted, etc… but it has never missed a beat. It had been sitting in my parents garage from 1996 to October 2007. I brought it home, added fuel to the tank, pumped it up and it fired right up like it was new! Very impressive.

[Wanderlusty]

I almost cried when I realized I'd forgotten to take it with me to the Expedition Trophy!

Seriously...he almost cried...:oops:

[TACODOC]

Poncho liner, M-65 field jacket (with liner), MSR Pocket rocket, Gerber Multiplier, Glock .40, Gerber Auto-Opener, fleece beenie, nomex flight gloves, Stihl 044, Filson "tin" pants, 1945 steel canteen cup, GI issue machete, "moon beam" GI issue flashlight, Craftsman tool set...

I can think of alot of things I pack around that have been "legendary" over the years

[LC/LR4Life]

My Wenger Swiss Army knife. Countless journeys for over 20 years. Close second - my Dana Design Astralplane 'overkill' backpack.

[Shovel]

update edit: i just recieved my Brigade Quartermaster catalog. the picture of Maxpedition Colossus Versipack item #MAX30 looks similar.

these ones any good?

Nice find!!! I don't know anything about that particular bag except that now I want one :chowtime: -

Let us know about it if you happen to take the plunge first!

[Scenic WonderRunner]

I have always felt your spirit.....Carl

Great stuff!



Its not gear but it means just as much to me if not more, than my tent, knife, cook stove, or sleeping bag...

I have this hat, not any hat but a very special hat to me. I would fight for this hat and defend it to the end. What would you ask, is so special about that hat? Why would that hat be anymore special than yours, or hers, or theirs? Let me tell you...

That hat is brown and round, that hat was bought from a bloke down under, that hat has traveled with me from one end of this country to the other end (48 states), that hat fits me just perfectly, that hat has that little bend right here---> that makes it snug as a rug over my mug, when the wind blows it stays on, when it rains it keep my eyes dry, keeps my head warm in winter and cool in summer, has a little joey on the inside upper, and is made from all natural sources, alas it is starting to show its age, has a little spot here ---> and another there ----> but in the end what makes that hat so special to me is...

One day I had a son and when he started to travel with me he woke one morning and put on the hat, that is when I knew why that hat was so special to me, because he put it on and has worn it on every trip we have gone on together and he is what makes that hat for me more special than any trip I would see. This hat has been passed quietly to someone special to me, in that hat you see!

:)


http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a346/hotrodtuna/KimsCamera404.jpg

[haven]

I've carried a pair of Zeiss 10x40 BGAT* binoculars for more than 20 years. I own several other brands, and I have field experience with most of the others. The Zeiss 10x40 is the one I reach for as I head out the door.

http://www.tvwg.nl/testrapporten/kijkers/images/zeiss-10x40b.gif

I've used the Zeiss 10x40 from Point Barrow to Ushuaia, in freezing rain and sweltering humidity. These binoculars continue to perform flawlessly, handle superbly, and stand up to the indignities of life in the field.

Time marches on, and Zeiss has discontinued the 10x40 BGAT*. I just don't like the replacement as well.

Chip Haven

[spressomon]

My 1958 Winchester Model 12 with a round post style factory vented rib...bought it 31-years ago; don't shoot it anymore but it has too many memories to part with.

And my Sig 226 which I bought new 20-years ago...

Original Patagonia Bunting Jacket...bought new in 1984...still wear it today. Their stuff really doesn't wear out!

...like Martyn said: These things remind me how hold I have gotten!!!

[Alaska Mike]

This is a great thread. Since I bought my Series III, I've been fascinated by classic, practical items.

I think my best example is my rubberized folding bucket. I believe it's from the Swiss military, and it's lasted much longer than the usual canvas variety. It's pictured bungied to my spare tire on Page 20 in the latest Overland Journal as I cross Purches Creek. Simple, compact, and easy to stow, it's been one of my most borrowed (and retrieved) items after a day on a muddy trail. Coupled with a cheap squeegie, it's a veritable car wash. The fact that it's a froggy-colored just enhances the classic kit status.

I try to buy quality items whenever I can so I don't constantly have to replace them, other than the knives I am always losing. You could probably make a FJ40 frame out of all of the knives I've lost over the years. The cheaper the knife, the longer it seems to hang around. Of course, I've ended up with shelves of gear that looked like a good idea at the time, but somehow just wasn't practical in the long term. Case in point- I have three Coleman lanterns that never get used. Why? Because I camp during the summer, where it never gets dark enough.

I've got to go through the gear soon so I can make room for all of the stuff I'm going to "need" for the Rover.

[FourByLand]

My Benchmade with my North Face Denali haven't let me down yet.

[Scenic WonderRunner]

I am collecting .....anything and everything.....Coleman!



Dinner...........at the WBM Cabin.........

http://i71.photobucket.com/albums/i156/ScenicWonderRunner/2007_0220HiNLoDesertRunners0205.jpg


Breakfast at the World Beater Mine Cabin..........

http://i71.photobucket.com/albums/i156/ScenicWonderRunner/2007_0220HiNLoDesertRunners0208.jpg

I have a great time heading out to the garage sales in my community. I pick up lots of Coleman gear at pennies on the dollar.........and have tons of fun doing it!

[rhodos]

My legendary outdoor gear is a dark blue enameled metal cup which holds 0.5 liter, bought it in 82 before my first Africa trip and never since been away without it. Used it for everything from hot soup over coffee, tea, milk to beer, wine, whisky and even champagne.

[kellymoe]

I still have and use my Lowe Alpine Expedition pack. I have had it for 25+ years and it has been on countless climbs and ski trips.

The only other piece of equipment I have that I would say is legendary is the piton hammer my dad used when he was a teen and that he handed over to me when I started climbing. I used it for several years and placed countless bolts and pins with it. I finaly retired it for fear of breaking it. I will pass it to my son or daughter:) when they start climbing.

[Cabrito]

Don't know if it's legendary but it does have legendary aspects.

I actually found this next to a dumpster that was in front of a house up the street. The family had lived there for my whole life and when the Mom died they sold it. They were cleaning out the basement and this was left along side the dumpster, I am guessing they figured it was still useful to somebody. The thing is like new and works great! 7,000 btu's!

[offroad_nomad]

Here's my Camillus knife I've had since I bought it new in late 1981. It's a great knife that I still use.

[One Arm Steve]

Been clearing trails and keeping me warm for years (chop, chop). Got myself in the shin once.......

http://www.terrierman.com/machete.jpg

[Mike S]

I've carried a pair of Zeiss 10x40 BGAT* binoculars for more than 20 years. I own several other brands, and I have field experience with most of the others. The Zeiss 10x40 is the one I reach for as I head out the door.

http://www.tvwg.nl/testrapporten/kijkers/images/zeiss-10x40b.gif

I've used the Zeiss 10x40 from Point Barrow to Ushuaia, in freezing rain and sweltering humidity. These binoculars continue to perform flawlessly, handle superbly, and stand up to the indignities of life in the field.

Time marches on, and Zeiss has discontinued the 10x40 BGAT*. I just don't like the replacement as well.

Chip Haven

I bought my first pair in Munich in 1981. Carried them in Canada and all over the Western US, Mexico, and the Caribbean. Lost them out of my duck boat at South Klamath one miserable, snowy day. Went out and immediately bought another pair.

Don't leave home without them!

[kodiak1232003]

had my hi lift for 10 years...

had my buck classic folder for about 13 years...

just retired my burton snowboard bag after 11 years...that thing went with me to china, alaska, all over the u.s., over molten lava on kiluea volcano..:(

its getting replaced with the best, though...:)...maxpedition condor II hydration pack...

[lowenbrau]

I guess you'd call me a 'consumer' I racked my brain as I looked though this thread and couldn't think of much that I've had for a long, long time. I left home too early to be trusted with any of my Dad's gear and the stuff I've aquired I've been happy to wear out. Some of the things I've had for a long time and haven't worn out yet are my MSR whisperlite stove, and an old Openel knife.

[Sleeping Dog]

I am collecting .....anything and everything.....Coleman!



Dinner...........at the WBM Cabin.........

http://i71.photobucket.com/albums/i156/ScenicWonderRunner/2007_0220HiNLoDesertRunners0205.jpg


Breakfast at the World Beater Mine Cabin..........

[

I have a great time heading out to the garage sales in my community. I pick up lots of Coleman gear at pennies on the dollar.........and have tons of fun doing it!

I have that stove, the old man bought when he built the tent trailer around 1958. The lantern is newer and somewhere along the line we picked up the dome shaped catalytic heater.

Gear that lasts.

jim:tent:

[Hunter]

Well, unfortunatly, twice in the 13 years I have been 4wheelin in my own rigs, I have had them stolen. I got the vehicles back, but both times they were stripped. The worst was in 2003. I had a lot of gear in the back as I was getting ready to hea dout of town in a few days. That was the day I lost a lot of my "experienced" gear.

But, I do have this yank strap. Some 20'x2" junk strap I bought back in 1995. I cant even remember what color it was suppoed to be. ( I think it was yellow )It has managed to stay with me and has helped yank people and myself out of plenty of jams across Arizona. I wouldnt be surprised if that strap has 100,000 miles of travel on it. I still have it and it is mounted on my buggy and tell folks its a reserve strap.

I am sure it has long since passed the age of being safe but I just can't head out with out it.

[SAR_Squid79]

Here are my 2 pieces of "ultimate gear"

My time as a boyscout, and as a kid in rural North Carolina who spent most of his childhood out in the woods, taught me how invaluable a good knife is.

The 2 knives pictured here are:
M9 Phrobis III Bayonet, and Emerson MCQC-7 (with "wave").


http://img232.imageshack.us/img232/1295/1000798br0.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img232.imageshack.us/img232/8325/1000797jh7.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

M9 Phrobis III Bayonet:
http://www.olive-drab.com/od_edged_weapons_bayonet_m9.php
http://www.m9bayonet.com/buck-phrobis-m9.html

The M9 is a Multi-Purpose Knife System. Designed to be used as a bayonet, fighting knife, general field knife, utility knife, and wire cutter (when used in conjunction with the sheath). I have had this knife since I was about 10 years old. I've cut both chain-link, and barbed-wire fences with the wire cutter configuration. The pouch on the front of the sheath is designed to hold a magazine for a 92F Beretta pistol, but I've always carried a magnesium fire starter in there. The sheath also has a sharpening stone built into it.

The Emerson MCQC-7 Wave:

Due to tremendous demand from Emerson customers they have finally produced a "waved" version of their signature knife and made it miniature, the MCQC-7B model. This knife has all of the qualities that have made it a legendary knife, now with the lightening quick wave opening feature.

Features:
Handle: Black G-10 epoxy/glass laminate
Liner: Aerospace grade Titanium
Blade: 154 CM
Finish: Satin
Grind: Chisel Ground Tanto Style
Overall Length: 7.75 in.
Blade Length: 2.20 in.
Blade Thickness: .125 in.
Hardness: 57-59 RC

I carried a mini-CQC-7 for about 14 years. It was actually an Emerson/Benchmade. I got it as a present when I was in the 7th grade. It served me well, as I carried it with me nearly EVERY SINGLE DAY for 14 years. Finally this past year I decided it had outlived its intended lifespan, and I just got the new Emerson for Christmas, and I now carry it EVERY SINGLE DAY. Hopefully it, too, will serve me well for the next 13 years!

[Fifthpro]

Might every Infantryman on here agree...

1. 'Cho Liner: any weather, any time, any location! Everyone in my family has them
2. Leatherman Wave: Fix weapon systems, cut and saw stuff that needs it and scissors to cut mole skin for the dogs...
3. Canteen Cup: Coffee & Hot Chocolate or Romin
4. Surfire Flashlight: Got to have a good light...
5. Your favorite pair of boots.....I broke my leg in three places and completely dislocated my ankle on a jump but refused to let the medic cut off my boot! I unlaced that thing and took it off while gritting my teeth. There was no way he was going to cut off my best road marching boots!
6. A Lensthetic compass: I have the same one I had as a Private, I have others but always trust the old girl.
7. A good folding knife.....I have a bunch but they all have the same basic formfactor.

Times have changed over the years and various items have found their way into my kit, bail out bag or rig but I can always be found with these basic items....minus the canteen cup. It has been replaced with other items over the years but still a darn good piece of kit.

[Clark White]

Gerber LMF-II Infantry.
http://i79.photobucket.com/albums/j131/Midknightc3/DSC02024.jpg
5" blade (I think, or something very close to it). Built in sharpener and leg strap.
http://i79.photobucket.com/albums/j131/Midknightc3/DSC02030.jpg
I just wish that it had the mag ouch of the older version above, and maby the wire cutter too. It pretty much goes everywhere with me, and being issued, it was the right price.
Also carry flint block, Glock/1911, and my Cold Steel knife that goes with me everywhere every day.

[Tucson T4R]

Drifting off subject but....

My son went to Europe after he graduated from high school a couple years ago. He visited a historic sword and knife factory in Toledo Spain and brought me back this little gift. :elkgrin:

http://i103.photobucket.com/albums/m125/bgarland40/Mar042008001.jpg

http://i103.photobucket.com/albums/m125/bgarland40/Mar042008002.jpg

http://i103.photobucket.com/albums/m125/bgarland40/Mar042008004.jpg

http://i103.photobucket.com/albums/m125/bgarland40/Mar042008003.jpg

http://i103.photobucket.com/albums/m125/bgarland40/Mar042008005.jpg

I don't plan for it to be a daily carry but I sure do like it. :wings:

[Spikepretorius]

I've had many good knives and still have a few of them, but in my time in the forces I found that I always ended up reverting back to a plain old swiss army knife. The plain one with only two blades and a toothpick. It just seemed to do all the jobs and my Rambo knives gathered dust.

[MaddBaggins]

I never leave town without my Zippo. It's the Zippo I bought when I was on my ship. It's all brass and engraved with my ship and insignia. I've had it since 1991.
I put it in the mail and sent it to Zippo once, nearly ten years ago, for repair. You send it to the address on the bottom of the lighter. Zippo, Bradford PA and the Zip code. Put a little note in there with a return address. A few weeks later I got it back, good as new. Nice customer service. No questions asked, just fixed and returned.

[Lynn]

Drifting off subject but....

My son went to Europe after he graduated from high school a couple years ago. He visited a historic sword and knife factory in Toledo Spain and brought me back this little gift. :elkgrin:

I've bought one like that for my father and one for myself when I was stationed near Toledo. Great knives.

I've also got a set of traditional Spanish swords, complete with the hand-carved crest of Toledo, from the Marto factory.

My wife has since educated me on interior decor, and, unfortunately, I need to find a new home for the swords.

[findleywarren]

My all time best gear piece-

USMC poncho liner-Is it possible to live without one? I bought my son one for his third birthday-he sleeps with it every night, camping or not. Wife kicked mine out of bed years ago. It lives in the mog now.

Runner up-Original Vasque sundowner boots-Getting hard to find these days, every pair I have owned has been the best money ever spent.

Honorable mention

Beretta 9mm pistol, MSR dragonfly stove, tilley hat, compass and every pair of sunglasses I have ever lost, crushed or kept some randon stick from poking me in the eye

[taugust]

Coleman stove.

I think I have an older one than yours. Bought it for $10 at a garage sale in 1992. It is slightly larger and has a more cylindrical tank. Replaced the valve and the tank cap. Works great all over the southwest. My older brother still uses our parents' that is the same as yours.



[QUOTE=Scenic WonderRunner]I am collecting .....anything and everything.....Coleman!



Dinner...........at the WBM Cabin.........

http://i71.photobucket.com/albums/i156/ScenicWonderRunner/2007_0220HiNLoDesertRunners0205.jpg

[biere]

I love this post. To some extent I have been seeking out the best stuff I can afford and that lets me have stuff actually worth having since it is nice to have and use.

I added a few things from this thread to my list, I already knew about the tilley hats but it is nice to see them mentioned again. Same goes for filson clothing.

I have some coleman stuff around, I don't collect it so much as I buy it cheap and fix it and use it and hope to pass it on when I am no longer going to use it. Then again some of the new stuff is not so impressive.

Right now I am working on getting back into some danner boots, bought a different brand for some reason I still can't figure out and I should have just dealt with losing a pair of boots and found some danners instead of trying to get by with less.

My benchmade pocket knife is my best folder, I am a big fan of fixed blades but a nice folder with a pocket clip sure can be handy.

These days I research most anything, I sure can spend money in a hurry but when something is a joy to use it is not a waste of money.

[greybrick]

This is a great thread. One of the things that always goes with us on truck trips is a something called a round point drain spade. I have about three or four of them but the oldest belonged to my grandfather which he carried on saddle horses and used for ranch fencing and so I'm guessing maybe 70 or 80 years old, handiest digging tool I've ever used. I don't have a photo but here's a generic pic from one of the box stores to give an idea;

http://www.homedepot.ca/wcsstore/HomeDepotCanada/images/catalog/f9914e26-8e76-47f9-98db-1d2653cc9812_4.jpg

Maybe this thread deserves to be a sticky. :)

.

[targa88]

It always seems that quality stands the test of time...
30 year old Opinel knife
18 year old swiss army knife

[orangeTJ]

Mine is a huge Victornox Swiss army knife that I bought back in the mid 80's for $2.00 at a garage sale. It was in great shape. New, they sold for about $50 back then.

I need to post a pic of it.

[KingCrabberCurry]

My most gotta-have-it piece of gear has to be my DSO T-bone polarized sunglasses.

http://i229.photobucket.com/albums/ee87/wootenjones/Misc010.jpg

I've had these since 2000 and wear them every single day. Simply put, I don't go outside without them. I've even worn the hard plastic coating off of the bridge and temples, exposing the softer plastic underneath.

http://i229.photobucket.com/albums/ee87/wootenjones/Misc012.jpg

They have spent time at the bottom of a lake, have ridden about 20 miles attached the the roof rack of my truck and have taken a direct hit from birdshot while quail hunting, but they keep coming back for more.

For camping gear, my most "legendary" piece has to be my dad's Coleman stove.

http://i229.photobucket.com/albums/ee87/wootenjones/Misc014.jpg

It served him well during countless surf fishing trips to the Outer Banks of North Carolina for over 25 years, and last year he passed it on to me. He estimated it has seen over 400 camping trips, and has never failed to perform. I would clean it up some, but I'm afraid that I'll scrub off all the durability and reliability that comes with that desirable bacon grease and salt spray patina.

[SunMan]

Gotta be Grandpa's old bowie knife....must be 50-60yrs old and bombproof. An old cast iron skillet from my parents, prolly 30-40 yrs old (talk about seasoned!), and sadly, Dad's old Coleman stove just had to go, the new propane jobs are just too easy.

[IH8RDS]

I found out something neat about my old Coleman lantern today. I have had it for 15 years now. I bought in a garage sale in Utah. I researched the stamps on it and it is a model 228C made on Aug 1945!! Still works like a champ and I take it on all my camping/fishing trips. Now that I can decode the dates I found one on eBay that I'm buying that was made on my birth month. I'll pass it down to my kids.

http://www.oldtownyucca.com/coleman/tech/id.htm

[Dredzilla]

Woobie hands down. I managed to aquire several of them. perfect in every way.

[mtn-high]

Here's mine. A pump-style camp drinking fountain.

I rescued this from my parent's home/sale when they retired. We acquired this drinking fountain along with an old and very large Coleman propane stove, (I believe it was 3 burners but it's a bit foggy as I was a kid and didn't do the cookin' back then)....an aluminum folding table that measured 3 ft x 6 ft, and a large Coleman lantern....all of which came *in* a '65 Ford Van that my parents bought in '68. All of these pieces of gear were wrapped in custom-made wooden boxes (table slid into the box, stove slid into the box/etc.) and were mounted along the sides of the van/out of the way. Definitely a crude "RV"! The other thing I remember about it was that it had a huge V-8 and that the motor housing would get VERY hot on trips across Kansas to CO. Hot enough that a (not-so-bright?) youngster such as myself ended up with a good size blister one night when I forgot and rubbed up against it with my bare leg. Ouch.

And while I'm rememberin'....was Top 40 radio good back then or what? Even with just that one big speaker up on the front dash of the Ford fighting the highway noise, some of those tunes got have been stuck in my head ever since and toss me right back to those special family times everyt time I hear 'em. Woah.

Anyway..I dug this fountain out after over 20 years of non-usage and gingerly lubed up the LEATHER pump seal gasket and let it set for a bit....and then BAM...after a few pumps the pressure built up and the water came jetting out when I pushed the button! Holy smokes. Talk about a "flood" of memories.....

anyone else ever seen one of these? I need to look it over good and see who made it/etc and do some research/etc. Diggin it out for these photos is the first time I've touched it in a few years (thus, the dust) so it's time to set it out front-and-center and give it some added attention/get it up and running again...

thanks for the thread/the push!

mtn-high

[Fergie]

This thread is getting revived...too many good stories in here, and I'd like to add a few of my own.

This knife was given to me when I cleaned my first squirrel(all Aberts), and has seen many more squirrel, rabbit, elk, deer and antelope. It is a Parker knife, and fits my hand well.

I think my Granddad owned it originally, then my father, now me. Nothing special, but perfect for skinning animals.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v176/bergferg/Optimus%208R/Optimus8R009.jpg

And to this piece. I doesnt have a long history with me, but was bought at a thrift store this Christmas for less than $5, and on Christmas morn' when I opened it up, I took it outside and it fired right up.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v176/bergferg/Optimus%208R/Optimus8R002.jpg

Yes, the original instruction sheet.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v176/bergferg/Optimus%208R/Optimus8R006.jpg

Good looking stove, I think; look forward to using it.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v176/bergferg/Optimus%208R/Optimus8R007.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v176/bergferg/Optimus%208R/Optimus8R008.jpg

[SunTzuNephew]

Plain old Coleman 2-burner gas stove......I bought it (used) when I was 16, I think. All I've ever needed to do to it is replace (once) the generator tube, the tank, pump, etc are still original and still working. I've cooked meals for 100 on it, and used it for solo car camping as well.

My SAK - a Woodsman model, I got as a gift when I was a kid.

And my original Silva compass (not sure of the model), that has the Boy Scouts logo on it.

[Fireman78]

Coolest thread idea in a while.. most excellent. I decided to narrow this down to one thing. (Hard to do). Gotta be the Leatherman.

[Jnich77]

I mean a piece of outdoor gear that has been with you for years and never failed you and you would never leave home without?

The only thing I owned that would even remotely come close was my old synthetic blanket from the military. That thing was so soft, warm, and versatile. It was great for the summer, packed down small, and made a great pillow...just an awesome piece of gear. In the military we called this type of blanket a woobie...I kid you not. You'd hear grown men armed with automatic weapons saying things like, "Ah man, I can't find my woobie!" Man I miss that thing.

Anyway, do you guys have a legendary piece of gear?

+1 on the woobie.. I never leave home with out it.

[matt s]

This thread is getting revived...too many good stories in here, and I'd like to add a few of my own.

This knife was given to me when I cleaned my first squirrel(all Aberts), and has seen many more squirrel, rabbit, elk, deer and antelope. It is a Parker knife, and fits my hand well.

I think my Granddad owned it originally, then my father, now me. Nothing special, but perfect for skinning animals.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v176/bergferg/Optimus%208R/Optimus8R009.jpg

And to this piece. I doesnt have a long history with me, but was bought at a thrift store this Christmas for less than $5, and on Christmas morn' when I opened it up, I took it outside and it fired right up.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v176/bergferg/Optimus%208R/Optimus8R002.jpg

Yes, the original instruction sheet.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v176/bergferg/Optimus%208R/Optimus8R006.jpg

Good looking stove, I think; look forward to using it.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v176/bergferg/Optimus%208R/Optimus8R007.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v176/bergferg/Optimus%208R/Optimus8R008.jpg

My father has one of those stoves. It's awesome, he keeps it in airplane survival gear.

[matt s]

It sounds simple, perhaps even cliche. When I was 7 my father gave me my first knife, a basic swiss army knife. Two blades, leather awl, can opener, phillips and flat head. I still carry it today.

[Yudda]

EASY answer.....

My BSA flint. Ive had it for 25plus years.

P38 can opener

Gerber multitool Fisherman needlenose...yeah there are tons of new MTs out there but i always seem to need needlenose pliers...not the blunt ones on all the other MTs.

and my Strider SNG (pic from net)


Rob