Archive for the 'Gear Review' Category

Samsung Camera Review NV10 and NV11

Bryan May 17th, 2008

It had been a while since I’d sold my trusty Nikon CoolPIx 5000. It was just too big. As I started this blog, I wanted a quality, compact camera (that takes SD cards) to take with me camping and hiking. A friend recommended the Samsumg NV10, a 10 megapixel model. At 4″ x 2.5″ x 1″, it definately fit the bill of compact.

I bought my first Samsung NV10 and loved it. The menu system was SO easy to learn and navigate and it captured some really great shots. I was well pleased with it for 2 months until the lens mechanism jammed and failed. I thought I was in the clear and sent it in for warrenty repair. They denied it. I argued. No dice.

So, thinking it was just a lemon, I bought another (did I mention I loved its menuing system?). I was back on track until, 5 months later, the lens cover started sticking. Reading online, this is a fairly common occurence. Like an idiot, I didn’t sent this one in for repair. Instead, I waited until I really needed a camera while on vacation.

Then I went off again searching and found the NV11 at a great price. I bought it (did I mention I loved this camera’s compact size?). And again, I was in digital camera heaven. That is until 2 months later, the lens mechanism jammed again. No need to even bother wasting money on shipping this time. I knew my warrenty claim would be denied.

Now with one camera still functional (with a sticking lens cover) of the 3 Samsung cameras I purchased in 18 months, I’m saying no more.

Fool me once, shame on you. Fool me twice, shame on me. Fool me three times? Anybody care to finish this one?

Anybody have any recommendations for a quality, compact camera that takes SD cards? Maybe one that is more durable than egg shells?

Review-Mountain Hardwear Gaiters

Bryan January 27th, 2007

After hiking in the Smokies for 5 days, and making what I’m guessing is about 15 creek crossings, I think I can say these Mountain Hardwear Gaiters work.  As a matter of fact, they worked so well, I would step in the deeper water to avoid the slippery rocks and busting it. 

They’ve fairly easy to put on.  The boot straps are very durable and appear to be replaceable.  Mine show only the scratch marks of walking on rocks.  The lace hook is a difference design than I’ve seen before.  It hooks the lace from the underside, instead of over it.

I would definitely buy these again.  Of course, wear these with your waterproof hiking boots.


Mountain Hardwear Ascent Gaiter (Spring 2007)