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Shopping On-line!
Convenient!
We have a tendency to shy-away from things that are unknown or we don’t understand. I for one went into the electronic age dragging my feet and screaming/hollering all the way. But, the more I got into it, the more I realized its true merits. This includes researching and shopping for things on the Internet. If your intent is to purchase a quality item at the lowest price, you should do your research on the Internet.
There are many Internet search engines (Google, Bing, etc.) that will help to simplify the buying process. They will assist in developing the data needed to determine product quality, as-well-as the information required for cost analysis. It has been my experience that prices on-line are normally a little cheaper than like items bought at the corner retail store. If it is a high dollar item you‘re purchasing, the tax savings alone could save you a bundle.
One of the nice things about shopping on-line is that the items are normally sent to your front door. Shopping for things like camping gear can be both fun and educational. If you are a show-me person, many times there will be video tapes/subject experts showing and further explaining the product.
Camping Gear Replacement Items!
Perfect!
I’m in the process of doing my end-of-season camping gear inventory. Inventory reflects that there are several items that need to be replaced. This includes a tent (4-5 person), a couple battery operated lanterns, and possibly a new 4-burner stove (propane). Total cost of these items will be several hundred dollars. However, being a prudent shopper, I want both quality and savings.
As Granddad used to say, there has got to be “method too this madness. You don’t go food shopping when you’re hungry”. The same principle applies when buying camping gear. You need to first determine exactly what you want as compared with the maximum price you can afford. This preliminary research can be done by going to a local sporting-goods store or referring to the respective Manufacturer’s website.
Experience has shown that bargains in camping gear can be obtained but you need to do some leg work. Once you have determined the item wanted (can afford) by Nomenclature (name), Manufacturer, and Model Number – you can go-out with confidence and buy the item needed. Whether it be a seasonal sale at the local sporting goods store or a reputable on-line shopping site, you are prepared to make item price comparisons. Make sure the prices compared include taxes/shipping and handling.
Ammo Organization!
Keep Ammo Organized, Clean, and Dry!
Much has been said about the storage of ammunition. This last fall, I went to my hunting buddy’s house to coordinate an upcoming hunt. He took me out to his utility shed where he kept his weapons, ammo, and hunting paraphernalia. It was actually pretty neat – lights, running water, and a big work area. However, I did notice that he had ammo scattered all over the place. Some were in boxes, some in #10 cans, and some even loose. I couldn’t help but comment; so, the subsequent result was a discussion on the virtues of proper ammunition storage.
We determined that the service life of ammunition could be for a very long time if properly stored, inspected periodically, and maintained. Every 6-10 months, ammo should be inspected for cleanliness/corrosion. If corroded, clean with a small amount of steel or copper wool and oil lightly. If ammo is pitted, dispose of it.
As implied, the biggest problem with ammo storage is moisture. Water-proof ammo boxes are ideal. Try and keep cartridges in the original packing. If stored in wooden boxes, or a metal ammo can – throw-in a couple dehumidifiers for good measure. The keys to proper storage are:
- Inspect periodically;
- Provide needed maintenance;
- Keep Dry !!
Reloading Considerations!
Reloading Considerations!
With the price of ammunition today, reloading is starting to make a lot of sense. You can probably save as much as 80% on store bought costs. However, you must consider the initial expense/outlay for reloading equipment and other reloading supplies such as black-powder, brass, etc.
Most people that start reloading brass find it just as addictive as hunting and target shooting. If you do a lot of shooting, it might not only be enjoyable but easy on the pocket-book!
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