The Outbound screen house cost $75 but it was worth the comfort.  |  Kim Quintin photo

Keeping bugs at bay makes for more relaxing vacation

Few things can ruin a relaxing day camping more than aggressive insects. Mosquito coils and personal insect repellents can sometimes do only so much to keep the bugs under control. A good screen house tent is another layer of protection. I bought an Outbound screen house and took it on a week long family summer […] Read more

The stainless steel Bushcrafter knife is rust resistant.  |  Kim Quintin photo

Unique knife design allows for easy but powerful cuts

The Bushcrafter knife is designed by Shane Sibert and manufactured in the United States by Benchmade. The tool is more than nine inches long, has nearly a 4.5 inch blade, weighs about half a pound and has a full tang. The blade is made from S30V stainless steel and green G10 fibreglass laminate comprises the […] Read more



The 702 Plinkster is a lightweight rifle that may be best suited for children. |  Kim Quintin photo

Inexpensive rifle a good entry point for beginners

The 702 Plinkster, which is manufactured in Brazil and sold by Mossberg, is a semiautomatic rimfire rifle chambered in .22 LR. My test model weighed four pounds, had an 18 inch blued barrel and a synthetic stock and came with a 10-round detachable box magazine. The receiver and trigger guard were made from aluminum, while […] Read more



Would relaxing firearm restrictions really threaten safety?

I was recently piqued by a conversation about self-defence and gun control in the United States. I have long heard both sides of the debate and doubt such a complex matter will be easily resolved. However, I was curious about how the issue of gun control versus freedom relates to Canadians. Statistics Canada has interesting […] Read more

Hunters and other outdoor enthusiasts should know how to properly dress for the cold and deal with hypothermia should it arise.  |  Flickr.com/Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources photo

Layered clothing still the best way to stay warm in winter

Almost anyone who has experienced a winter in Canada has an idea how dangerous and extreme the cold can sometimes be. Normal body temperature is around 98.6 F. When it drops below 95 F, a person is suffering from hypothermia. The further body temperature drops from normal, the more dangerous things get. Signs of hypothermia […] Read more

Bushness Powerview 7x35 binoculars don’t perform as well as other models in twilight, but come at a fraction of the cost.   |  Kim Quintin photo

Binoculars offer good sight at better price

Sight might be one of the most important senses. When it comes to enjoying the outdoors and hunting, a good set of binoculars is a must. For years now, I have been carrying a pair of simple Bushnell Powerview 7×35 binoculars. They were inexpensive but still had good optic clarity for the cost, which I […] Read more


The Petzl head lamp is lightweight, water resistant and has high and low beam settings.  |  Kim Quintin photo

Rely on Petzl head lamp to light up your way

Few things are as important as being able to see while hiking or working in the dark. A good head lamp is often superior to a flashlight because it illuminates where your head is pointed and keeps your hands free. Petzl, which manufactures quality head lamps, is a brand I have trusted for years to […] Read more

A properly set-up military-style sling can increase shot accuracy.  |  Kim Quintin photo

Firearm straps, narrow or wide slings: each have pros and cons

Many shooters put a lot of thought into ammunition and optics but rarely consider how they are going to carry a firearm in the country. Firearm slings and straps are an important concern that requires careful consideration. Slings are normally made of leather looped into two segments with buckles. They were designed for older style […] Read more