Category Archives: Outdoor Life

Trucks are great for getting around town and the great outdoors, hauling and towing, and generally bringing the extra power when you need it most. But what if your truck feels like it’s falling behind on performance? If you have the budget, tools, and know-how, you can upgrade your truck to get extra power all around. Here are four tips for getting more power out of your truck.

Replace the Engine

Admittedly, this isn’t a method for the casual mechanic, but it’s the surest way to boost your truck’s power. Replacing the engine requires time, money, and patience, but the results are amazing. You can either buy a crate engine fully assembled or build it yourself, though the more economical way is to buy a fully intact engine. Before embarking on this rewarding challenge, however, we advise getting the advice of an experienced mechanic first and regularly consulting with them over the course of the installation or build.

Install a Tuner

Briefly, tuners are on-board computers that tell your truck how to operate. Factory settings determine fuel efficiency, pressure, timing, and more. Preinstalled tuners have standard factory presets designed to get the most out of the vehicle without pushing it past its limits. However, you can override these settings to get your truck to achieve more. Tuning can push your truck up to and even past its limits. But overdoing it can cause engine failure and other issues, so keep this in mind while operating your vehicle.

Add a Cold Air Intake

Scientifically speaking, cool air has more oxygen packed into a smaller space than hot air. More oxygen added to your fuel means it burns better and provides more power. With a cold air intake, you can expect more horsepower for your speed and torque, the latter of which is good for towing and hauling heavy loads. Your fuel efficiency will improve, and the truck will have a more satisfying roar as well.

Pick the Right Tires

The last of our four tips for getting more power out of your truck is picking the right tires. Your tires have a lot to say about your truck’s performance. Larger tires with a better grip can provide more maneuverability and a smoother ride. Maintain the air pressure at proper levels and regularly inspect the tires for wear and tear and punctures. If you frequently head out into the wild, get a set of off-road tires for added stability and security as you ride over dirt and gravel roads.

Nature calls out to adventure seekers with its stunning landscapes, always available to explore and enjoy. Outdoor lovers often find themselves drawn to products that elevate their experience, and they particularly love handcrafted items created with passion and skill. With attention to detail and quality of craftsmanship, handmade items are a practical addition to one’s outdoor gear.

Handmade Knives

The knife is a versatile, reliable tool that’s crucial to any outdoor lover’s arsenal. Handmade knives stand out among the rest, boasting outstanding durability and precision. A common question that arises, though, is what makes handmade knives superior? The answer lies in the personal touch and meticulous crafting that goes into making every piece. Artisans carefully combine their expertise and knowledge, painstakingly forging the blades and handles to create the ultimate piece tailored to the user’s needs.

Exquisitely Designed Paracord Bracelets

Another favorite among those who venture into the wilderness is the paracord bracelet. Paracord bracelets, often crafted using high-strength cords and incorporating practical elements, serve as versatile survival tools. These bracelets are aesthetically appealing and offer various color options and additional features, such as compasses or fire starters.

Beautiful Handwoven Hammocks

When it’s time to relax, handwoven hammocks provide ultimate comfort and durability in an attractive package. These hammocks contain long-lasting materials and showcase beautiful, exquisite patterns and craftsmanship while offering a perfect haven to lie back and take in the beauty of nature.

Personalized Wood-Carved Goods

Wooden items hold a charm that entices outdoor enthusiasts, reflecting the essence of the natural world. Hand-carved wooden goods like utensils, bowls, and hiking staffs exhibit a rustic elegance that complements picnics or strolls through the woods. Many artisans even offer customized designs, ensuring a personal touch on these timeless creations.

Our list of the best handcrafted items for outdoor lovers enhances outdoor activities. Those seeking the ideal memento or valuable addition to their outdoor gear should undoubtedly explore the realm of handmade items and uncover their remarkable potential to enrich life under the open sky.

As hunting season approaches, it’s time to reassess our safety precautions and ensure that we remain mindful while in the field. While hunting can be a fun and exhilarating activity, it can also be dangerous if you don’t follow proper safety guidelines.

To ensure a successful hunting trip, we’ve compiled a list of common hunting safety mistakes to avoid this season. Read on to make sure you and your group are ready for a safe and successful hunt.

Not Knowing Your Surroundings

Being out in the open is a relaxing and beautiful experience, but you can easily get lost without guidance. It’s important to know information on the area you’ll be hunting in, including the terrain and potential dangers. Familiarize yourself with the hunting location before your excursion to ensure you’re aware of hazards like cliffs or bodies of water. Additionally, have a communication plan with others in the hunting party to stay together and avoid getting lost.

Failing To Wear Proper Safety Gear

One of the biggest mistakes hunters can make this season is not wearing proper safety gear. Wearing the right safety gear can help protect against accidents, injuries, and even death. We recommend that hunters wear bright, fluorescent orange clothing to be visible to others in the field. Furthermore, you should put on eye and ear protection when using firearms. You should also ensure you know how to handle first aid for a hunting trip.

Improperly Handling Firearms

Another common safety mistake is improperly handling firearms. Hunters should treat firearms respectfully and always keep the muzzle pointed in a safe direction. It’s also best to avoid placing fingers on the trigger until you’re ready to shoot. You should always unload firearms when you’re not using them and avoid leaving weapons unattended.

Being Ignorant of Hunting Regulations

Every state has different rules and regulations surrounding hunting. Before heading out, make sure you understand the laws in your area. This includes hunting seasons, bag limits, and hunting times. Staying on top of regulations helps ensure that you’re not only staying safe but also remaining compliant with the law.

Hunting Under the Influence of Alcohol

One of the most dangerous safety mistakes is hunting under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Operating firearms while under the influence can lead to accidents and injuries, so it’s crucial that you remain sober while hunting. Save the drinks for after the hunt.

Hunting can be a great experience when you do it responsibly. By following proper safety guidelines, everyone can remain safe and enjoy the outing. So before heading out into the field this season, properly prepare and ensure you stay committed to hunting safely. Happy hunting!

Something is calming and wonderful about losing yourself in the wilderness. The trees and wildlife can be a breath of fresh air you sorely need if you spend most of your time staring at a screen in an office. While short hikes are nice, they are often too quick to appreciate nature’s beauty. Meanwhile, a long-distance hike allows you to experience more and test your strengths. Below, we detail what you should know before taking a long-distance hike to appreciate it fully.

It’s Not a Race

The first thing you should understand about long-distance hiking is it’s not a race to the finish line. Some individuals might look at a lengthy trail and take it as a challenge to finish it as fast as possible. Not only is it dangerous to overextend yourself, but you might also miss some awesome sights and sounds.

A long hike is about enjoying nature, exploring, and centering yourself. Turning it into an athletic competition is counterproductive. Unless a bear is chasing you down, take it easy and enjoy it.

Choice of Footwear

Now that you have the proper mindset, let’s shift our focus toward the important tools of the trade. Nothing is more important for long-distance hiking than proper footwear. The trail will dictate which type you’ll need. You won’t need heavy and strong boots if it’s a more touristy trail with heavy foot traffic because most of those trails aren’t as demanding.

However, you need a pair of boots that can handle the rigors of climbing and sloshing around in the mud if you plan to go off the beaten path. You’ll also want a pair of trusted trekking socks to go with your footwear. Anti-blister socks are a wonderful investment for those who get them fairly often.

Pack With a Purpose

The goal of packing your bag is to make it as light as possible without forgetting any essentials. Typically, you will want gear that can do double duty, such as a sleeping back that can act as a cushion or pillow.

Food items like jerky, freeze-dried fruit, and protein bars don’t account for much room and weight in your bag. Anything of the canned variety adds heft to an already jammed-packed backpack.

It’s good to figure out how much water you’ll need before overpacking and adding unnecessary weight. The recommended amount of water is two cups an hour for grown adults, while children only need one. That number could fluctuate based on your health, amount of thirst, and weather conditions. You’re going to want to prepare for a few more swigs if it’s going to be a hot and dry day.

You Can Do It!

Assuming you’re adequately hydrating and taking meal breaks, it helps to understand a long-distance hike is mind-over-matter. A ten-mile hike on a steamy day can psych you out before you take your first step. You can do it if you don’t let your mind defeat you. Don’t push yourself when you’re weak and light-headed, ensure you rest when necessary. You will feel a sense of accomplishment when it’s over.

Learning what to know before taking a long-distance hike prepares you for the trail ahead. It will be an experience you will never forget if you take the proper precautions and pack for success.