Lightweight and compact handheld adds Garmin Explore app capability and navigation features so you can explore with confidence Garmin® International, Inc., a unit of Garmin Ltd. (NYSE: GRMN), today announced the inReach® Mini 2, a compact satellite communication device with two-way texting and SOS capabilities1. Purpose-built to support outdoor enthusiasts of all skill levels, the lightweight inReach Mini […]
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Archives for February 2022
How To Choose The Best Overlanding Vehicle
The right Overlanding vehicle will depend on what you want to do with it, where you plan to drive and how often you anticipate being on the road. There are many things to consider when selecting a car or truck for a long-term expedition, but these are some of the most important!
Vehicle Size
How much space do you need? One of the most important things to consider when choosing a vehicle for Overlanding is how much space do you need once all your gear and equipment are in. First, decide on what activities you will be doing with this vehicle. Will there be enough room for sleeping inside or will a rooftop tent be required? A Land Rover SUV might just be the right choice for you according to this car dealer in San Diego. Do you want an open cargo area to store extra fuel, water, and supplies? Some vehicles tend to have smaller 4×4 wheel drive options while others offer both types. The size of the doors can sometimes come into question if choosing a foreign-made vehicle where the driver and passenger doors are smaller than American or Japanese-made vehicles. This can be solved by choosing an SUV model rather than a smaller pick-up truck option.
Comfortable Interior & Suspension
If you plan on doing longer excursions, you will want to choose a vehicle with plenty of legroom and comfortable seats that are easy to take out in the event they need cleaning. A back seat is great for adding more storage space but can be uncomfortable if not folded down or removed entirely when not needed. Is there enough room for your legs to stretch while sitting in the front seat? Some vehicles may feel smaller than others due to their compact design. If this is the case, consider choosing an SUV which has ample head-and-shoulder room.
Do You Want Four Wheel Drive Or Two Wheel Drive?
Four-Wheel Drive (4WD) systems are typically designed for off-road and according to this car dealer, will offer the best control and traction than any other type of system. This is because most 4WD systems offer a transfer case that distributes power equally to all four wheels rather than just two with a 2WD option. A 2WD option will be cheaper to maintain but will not fair well in off-road activities. You are better off choosing a 2WD vehicle if you are looking for an exclusively on-road activity Overlanding vehicle. Not all four-wheel-drive vehicles are created equally. For example, a Nissan Xterra may not do as well in heavy snow conditions but can take you almost anywhere you need to go. Remember that this vehicle should support any outdoor activity such as camping, hiking, and fishing where there might be difficulties reaching certain areas due to bad weather conditions such as snow or mud. Think about what types of things you want to do with this vehicle before buying it.
Driving Requirements
Perhaps the all-time most important question you should ask yourself is, do I want to drive this car every day? If your answer is no, then perhaps choose a larger SUV made by companies like Nissan or Chevrolet that have enough room inside where it doesn’t feel claustrophobic while driving. It can be incredibly uncomfortable driving for long distances in any compact car especially when the roads get bumpy and require more steering corrections. This can tire out even the most experienced of drivers so take caution when choosing a smaller vehicle. Are you planning on driving both on-road and off-road? If your answer is yes, then a small SUV or pick-up might be the way to go.
Do You Need A High-Performance Vehicle?
You might want to consider more powerful vehicles if you plan on traveling through steep terrain or over difficult obstacles such as rocks. In some cases, it might be necessary for you to have enough horsepower to get up steep slopes without getting stuck in the mud or snow. Having extra torque at your disposal can also help when crossing rivers or deep streams where a speedy escape from rising waters may be necessary. You should also consider the wheel size of your vehicle. Larger wheel sizes help when crossing over bigger rocks and obstacles while a smaller wheel size ensures difficult terrains are not that much of a problem.
Every Overlanding vehicle is different so it’s important to understand the strengths and weaknesses of your options before buying one. The more research you do, the better prepared you’ll be if something breaks down in the middle of nowhere. Be sure to contact a reputable dealer for more information.
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How to Find Shed Antlers in Urban Areas
“Town deer” are a subgroup of America’s favorite ungulate that are subject to both affection and disgust. Some folks feel like an evening stroll reveals a private national park with wide-eyed does and heavy-racked bucks grazing on the hepatica only feet away. But for others, these animals are nothing more than overgrown rabbits that eat landscaping and defecate on sidewalks. Deer, particularly whitetails, have created a stronghold in the suburban…
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Silencer Central Awarded Ballistic’s Best Editors’ Select Award for Best Consumer Service
Silencer Central, America’s largest silencer dealer, has been awarded the Ballistic’s Best Editors’ Select Award for Best Consumer Service. Ballistic’s Best is unique in the shooting sports industry, and these awards recognize excellence in the industry in a wide range of categories including handguns, shotguns, rifles, accessories, and service.
“Receiving the Editors’ Select Award is a genuine reflection on the efforts our team has put into our direct-to-consumer sales,” said Brandon Maddox, CEO of Silencer Central. “How we interact and connect with our consumer can initiate an immediate and long-term relationship of trust and loyalty with that individual. This recognition reinforces our mission to bring quality, thorough service to those who purchase our products.”
Ballistic Magazine is a publication of Athlon Outdoors. Taking pride in delivering the best content to their audience across nine publications and four digital networks, Athlon Outdoors brings their news to over sixty-million total audience members.
Silencer Central delivers silencers directly to consumers in the 42 states where silencers are legal. The shipping process has revolutionized the way suppressors are sold and allows for consumers to streamline their purchasing experience by cutting out unnecessary hurdles to silencer ownership.
For more information visit them online at SilencerCentral.com, or call 888-781-8778.
For more information regarding Ballistic’s Best Awards, please contact Maureen Pichner with Athlon Outdoors at mpichner@athlonoutdoors.com.
About Silencer Central:
Silencer Central started its illustrious journey in 2005 as South Dakota Silencer, an events-based business, created with the goal of reaching the underserved hunting and sport shooting market by simplifying the silencer ownership process. It became Dakota Silencer, and finally rebranded as Silencer Central after expanding its simplified process in August 2020 to all 42 states where silencers are lawful. Silencer Central makes it simple to purchase a silencer by managing the entire buying process for the consumer, providing a free NFA Gun Trust, offering interest-free payment options, and shipping directly to their front door, once approved.
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Tim Wells: Video bowhunt as Tim stalks an Alaskan Black Bear and a Grizzly Bear.
CLICK HERE to go to video and see Tim Wells bowhunt for an Alaskan Black bear and an Inland Grizzly Bear.
Are Cougars A Threat To You?
A local rancher came into our small town’s cafe and excitedly told his domino playing buddies about his encounter with a mountain lion the night before. His bull was sick and the vet had moved it to a corral near the ranch house so it could be checked on easier. After dark the rancher heard the bull bellowing loudly and he walked to the corral to make sure the bull was ok. When he entered the corral and approached the bull he noticed blood and cuts on its neck.
Suddenly a sizeable animal bolted out of the shadows and over the top of the corral and hurried away. It was a mountain lion. And in the morning the bull had been clawed viciously and eaten on … and it was stone dead
Mountain lions are commonly called cougars or pumas. They are one of North America’s most reclusive predators, and they are proverbial killing machines. And in some parts of the U.S. they are are a problem.
Days before leaving for college an Idaho college student was bowhunting whitetails on opening day of archery season. He’d patterned a nice whitetail buck and was watching it in a field where he was waiting in ambush. Behind him, he heard a noise and thinking it was another deer, he turned; and saw a crouched mountain lion staring straight at him — the lion was only 14 feet away! With the small of the cougar’s back his only target, he quickly aimed and released his arrow. The lion jumped, turned and bounded away and dropped 80 yards away. Idaho Fish and Game cleared the incident as self-defense. The hunter didn’t get to keep the lion, but the event remains a lifetime memory.
Unlike many grizzly attacks where the bear is protecting a kill or its cubs, attacking mountain lions usually have one intention—to kill you. Young cougars, typically hungry males searching to establish a territory, are often the most aggressive. Old, injured, malnourished lions driven by hunger also have been known to become aggressive. Young children or small adults are the most vulnerable to wild animal attacks.
Mountain lions are expanding their range from Western states and Florida. Actual sightings or physical evidence have been noted in 11 Midwestern and Eastern states.
Though most biologists believe populations of mountain lions are healthy in Western states, in recent years anti-hunting movements have arisen to protect mountain lions by opposing hunting them with dogs. Essentially, banning or restricting hunting options limits biologists’ ability to control cougar populations. California residents in 1990 passed Proposition 117, which banned all mountain lion hunting and made the animals a “specially protected species.”
California further expanded its oversight of mountain lion control. The governor signed into law a bill requiring California Department of Fish and Game officials to use nonlethal procedures when responding to mountain lions not designated as public health threats. Finding a mountain lion in a back yard apparently is no longer enough to justify wildlife officers’ use of professional expertise to deal with such incidents.
In Oregon hunting for cougars is allowed, but not with dogs. Recently, Oregon’s House of Representatives passed a bill reintroducing hunting with dogs in an effort to return to a practice banned by voters in 1994. The bill died in the Oregon Senate, despite reports of increased sightings of mountain lions state wide.
In 1996 Washington voters passed a statewide initiative banning cougar hunting with dogs. Cougars continued to be hunted without dogs during general season. Dogs were used only under WDFW authority to address specific public-safety issues with cougars. In 2004, in response to complaints of lions killing livestock as well as conflicts with humans, particularly in the northeastern part of state, the legislature approved limited cougar permit hunts with dogs in some game management units. In 2011 the legislature dropped the permits with dogs. At the same time, overall cougar hunting harvest was reviewed, based on cougar population research. In 2012 Washington standardized the cougar hunting without dogs season (Sept. 1-March 31) that uses harvest guidelines and closes units after Jan. 1 when harvest guidelines are reached. Today, dogs can be used on cougars in Washington only under WDFW authority to address public safety issues.
Control of predators certainly incites impassioned controversy. Phil Cooper, an Idaho Department of Fish and Game information officer, said: “Anytime we have a problem with any predator, someone is unhappy. Those who lose a pet or livestock are mad that we can’t control the situation. When we do remove a problem animal, someone always complains that the animal was only doing what wild animals do. As humans move deeper into what have always been unhunted lands, these problems will continue to plague us. We may not like it, but it’s a problem we must learn to live with.”
In September 2003, St. Maries Idaho, school officials locked down all their schools. A mountain lion was strolling through the site of a grade school. Apparently the problem, continues.
ABOVE: A sign along a public walking trail inorms people that the area is “mountain lion country.”
People confronting a lion are told to make themselves look as large as possible, even to the extent of standing on a stump or using their arms to spread a jacket wide.
Running away from a lion is also considered a trigger for their prey drive. People are advised to try to stand their ground against a threatening lion.
New Garmin inReach Mini 2 delivers up to 30 days of global satellite communication, emergency services and enhanced location tracking
Lightweight and compact handheld adds Garmin Explore app capability and navigation features so you can explore with confidence
Garmin® International, Inc., a unit of Garmin Ltd. (NYSE: GRMN), today announced the inReach® Mini 2, a compact satellite communication device with two-way texting and SOS capabilities1. Purpose-built to support outdoor enthusiasts of all skill levels, the lightweight inReach Mini 2 communicator provides up to 30 days of battery life2, as well as integrated location and situational awareness features such as TracBack navigation and Garmin Explore™ Mobile app compatibility. Explorers will feel confident knowing the inReach Mini 2 provides two-way text messaging, location tracking, and weather updates thanks to the global Iridium® satellite network. Additionally, should an emergency occur, inReach Mini 2 users can trigger an interactive SOS message to the Garmin IERCC, a 24/7 staffed professional emergency response coordination center.
“Whether on a casual afternoon hike or climbing a mountain on an extended expedition, inReach Mini 2 is the perfect choice for a rugged, ultra-light tool to help you stay connected with friends and family around the clock. Its compact size, robust location features, and significantly increased battery life add peace of mind to any trip without adding weight to your pack,” said Dan Bartel, Garmin vice president of global consumer sales. “Moments of communication can become critical on any adventure and the best plan is to always be prepared, which is why Garmin satellite communicators, like inReach Mini 2, have become trusted tools for anyone who ventures outdoors.”
Enduring battery life
Whether by land, air or sea, inReach Mini 2 users can explore longer, knowing their device features up to 14 days of continuous run time in default 10-minute tracking mode. To further extend battery-life, users can customize inReach Mini 2 tracking intervals and receive up to 30 days of continuous use when in 30-minute tracking mode2. Individuals who find themselves only occasionally off the beaten path will feel confident knowing inReach Mini 2 can remain charged and ready for use when powered off for up to one year, making inReach Mini 2 a valuable addition to any car, boat or plane emergency kit.
Situational awareness
inReach Mini 2 automatically records a user’s activity and passively stores their route. If a user becomes disoriented, they can simply engage TracBack and an on-device digital path will retrace their movements and guide them back to their point of origin.
To further aid in navigation, inReach Mini 2 features an electronic compass that displays an accurate heading even when stationary. In addition to the GPS satellite network, inReach Mini 2 also leverages GALILEO, QZSS and BeiDou satellite networks for faster initial satellite acquisition time and more coverage in challenging environments than GPS alone.
Thanks to inReach Mini 2’s intuitive user interface, individuals can check location updates, weather alerts and messages faster than ever before. Using the new glanceable “quick view” on inReach Mini 2, customers can scroll through device widgets to quickly review the essentials. Individuals can also select each widget for additional details, which are provided on inReach Mini 2’s new high-resolution display optimized for viewing in all conditions.
Garmin compatibility
inReach Mini 2 can pair with more than 80 Garmin devices, including marine chartplotters, in-vehicle navigators, aviation systems and smartwatches. When paired, users can easily view incoming messages, respond to messages, or control the inReach Mini 2 to start and stop tracking and — in the event of an emergency — trigger an interactive SOS directly from the paired device.
Users can enhance the navigation and communication of their mobile phone with inReach Mini 2 by downloading the Garmin Explore Mobile app. This Garmin app is made for off-the-grid adventurers and outdoor enthusiasts alike to map, track, sync and share their trek from anywhere. When paired to inReach Mini 2, customers can use their mobile device to quickly type messages, get up-to-date weather information, download a variety of maps, review their trips, and use the new Course Creator to mark their start and finish to receive an automatically generated course line. Additionally, when starting navigation in Explore Mobile, the inReach Mini 2 will automatically begin on-device navigation.
Share your adventures in real-time
inReach Mini 2 customers can virtually bring their friends and family on a trip, even when they’re alone, using the location sharing features on inReach Mini 2. Through the inReach MapShare™ page or by sending GPS coordinates embedded in their message, users can update loved ones on their location at a moment’s notice. Friends and family can also reach out directly to inReach Mini 2 customers to provide encouragement or congratulations along the way.
24/7 emergency response
Thanks to a dedicated SOS button on inReach Mini 2, users can quickly declare an SOS should an emergency occur. Once an SOS is declared, inReach Mini 2 will send a distress signal to the Garmin International Emergency Response Coordination Center (IERCC), a 24/7 staffed professional emergency response coordination center. Through the two-way communication provided by inReach Mini 2, the IERCC can communicate with the inReach user and then notify the applicable search and rescue organization to respond. The IERCC will deliver a confirmation that help is on the way and provide updates on the status of the response effort. The IERCC may also reach out to the user’s designated emergency contacts.
Measuring just under 4 inches tall by 2 inches wide and weighing 3.5 oz, the rugged inReach Mini 2 is water rated to IPX73. InReach Mini 2 represents the newest innovation in Garmin’s expanding family of global satellite communication devices and is available now for a suggested retail price of $ 399.99.
To communicate using an inReach Mini device, an active satellite subscription plan is required. A variety of plans that range from flexible month-to-month options to an annual contract package are available for individuals or professionals. Plans are available for as little as $ 11.95 per month.
Engineered on the inside for life on the outside, Garmin products have revolutionized life for adventurers, athletes, and outdoor enthusiasts everywhere. Committed to developing products and services that enhance experiences and provide peace of mind, Garmin believes every day is an opportunity to innovate and a chance to beat yesterday. For more information, visit Garmin’s virtual Newsroom, email our press team, connect with @garminoutdoor on social media, or follow our adventures at garmin.com/blog.
1 Active satellite subscription required. Some jurisdictions regulate or prohibit the use of satellite communications devices. It is your responsibility to know and follow all applicable laws in the jurisdictions where the device is intended to be used.
2 Depending on settings.
3 See Garmin.com/waterrating for more details.
About Garmin International, Inc.
Garmin International Inc. is a subsidiary of Garmin Ltd. (NYSE: GRMN). Garmin Ltd. is incorporated in Switzerland, and its principal subsidiaries are located in the United States, Taiwan and the United Kingdom. Garmin, inReach, and TracBack are registered trademarks. Garmin Explore and MapShare are trademarks of Garmin Ltd. or its subsidiaries.
All other brands, product names, company names, trademarks and service marks are the properties of their respective owners. All rights reserved.
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How to Scout Public Land Whitetails in the Offseason
In a classic bait-and-switch move, I’m going to tell you something anticlimactic: You should start winter scouting public land just like you would any deer ground. Walk it, make notes, check out the past season’s sign, and try to read the terrain so that you’ll be better prepared next fall. This is all simple stuff and worthwhile for the public land hunter. But there’s more to the story if you want to use your February findings to stay on top of…
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Pnuma Outdoors Chooses Chevalier Advertising
Pnuma Outdoors has selected Chevalier Advertising & Public Relations as its strategic public relations and advertising agency of record. Leading the way in an ongoing public relations campaign, Chevalier Advertising will be promoting Pnuma Outdoors in all hunting and outdoor markets. This will include coordinating media samples, writing and distributing press releases, and offering Pnuma marketing and advertising […]
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Huk and Nomad Attend SEWE – Southeastern Wildlife Exposition
Huk and Nomad performance fishing and hunting apparel and gear will be on display at SEWE, the Southeastern Wildlife Exposition in Charleston, South Carolina, from February 17-20, 2022. The Southeastern Wildlife Exposition (SEWE) is a celebration of the great outdoors through fine art, live entertainment and special events. It’s where artists, craftsmen, collectors and sporting […]
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