Outdoorsman Time

tips for the modern sportsman

Prime Day Deals on Camping Gear 2018

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As Prime Day approaches, more leaks and early deals are coming out, so it’s a bit easier to have an idea of what to watch for this year.

This year’s Prime Day is July 16-17. The huge Amazon sale day will kick off at 3 pm ET on the 16th and run for 36 hours.

 

One category that we’re expecting big deals in is camping. In fact, some early deals are already happening. We’ll keep this page up to date with the latest and greatest in camping deals as we find them.

Current Deals in Camping

Save Big on Camping Air Mattresses (Various Sizes) and Accessories

Grab a new air mattress for over 30% off.

 

Alvantor Lightweight Waterproof Pop Up Tent

20% Off Alvantor tent

This is a super inexpensive tent that’s perfect for backpacking.

Depending on which color you pick, you can save up to 55% on this heavy duty cooler. The black is the cheapest right now, but other color options can fetch you 24% off or more.

 

Want to see all the current sales in camping and outdoors? Click here to go straight to the sales. There’s everything from water bottles to camp chairs to camping attire. These are daily deals that are sometimes available for a few hours only, so pay attention to the description of any item you’re interested in — you might have to act fast!

Keep checking back for more deals! We’ll be updating this page each day now through Prime Day. The deals will get more plentiful and even bigger as Prime Day approaches!

What is Prime Day?

Prime Day, which began just a few years ago, is a mid-summer deal extravaganza on Amazon.com. The deals are only for Prime members, but if you’re not already a Prime member, you can sign up for a free trial now and take advantage of the deals!

Prime Day will be full of deals and giveaways in every department, so it’s easy to get very overwhelmed by everything. Check out this post on Prime Day kitchen deals that gives some great pointers on how to prepare for the sales.

In addition to sales on products, Prime Day is all about promoting Amazon products and services, which can mean big savings for you if you’re interested in any of them. Some of those screaming deals include:

 

Motorola MS355R FRS Two-Way Radio Review

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You might know Motorola as the eccentric phone maker. They also manufacture the MS355R two-way radio. These radios are rugged and waterproof, making them an ideal choice for the average outdoorsmen and woman.

In this review, we’ll explore why the MS355R should be on your list of gadgets for your next adventure.

 

Design

There’s nothing too outlandish about the MS355R’s design. It’s not too bulky and fits in the palm of your hand. There are buttons on the front and the side to help out no matter where the radio is positioned on your body.

One thing we really like is the headset jack. Motorola has designed earphones specifically for this radio that have a built-in microphone. With the earphones connected, you can keep the MS355R dry and still operate it hands-free. Furthermore, the earphones are included with your purchase of the MS355R.

 

Performance

That 35-mile range is what entices many people to purchase the MS355R. When approaching that 35-mile limit, the MS355R works in tangent with repeater stations that might be in the area to boost the radio’s signal. However, you will need a unique GMRS license and a repeater station in order to utilize this function. Repeater stations aren’t common in every park or area of the wilderness, so make sure you check before you embark on a trip with this radio.

The MS355R comes equipped with 11 weather channels, 7 of which are connected to the NOAA (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association). Eleven channels diversify your ability to accurately predict the weather and plan your journey around rain, snow, or high winds.

Don’t think that the MS355R is limited to just backpacking or hiking trips. If you to take it out on the open water, the signal is good for up to six miles. Since its easier to close distance in the water with kayaks and boats, staying within that six-mile circumference should be easier.

The big advantage that the MS355R has over radios is its waterproof rating of IP-67. This means it can withstand submersion for up to a minute and half and repel heavy rain. You should do everything in your power to keep it out of water but still keep it within arms reach.

 

Overall

We like that the MS355R is small and to the point. There’s no extra bells and whistles that might raise the price or add to its weight. The belt clips that come with the radios mean you can place them wherever is convenient for you.

Despite the MS355R impressive abilities for the price, it’s not without its criticisms. Most complaints have to do with inconsistency with the MS355R’s range, which is pretty common among most two-way radios. For the best quality voice transmission, you’ll want to stay below half the maximum range and stand at the highest altitude with little terrain between you and the approximate position of the accompanying radio. While the quality of voice transmission is absolutely critical, you shouldn’t expect to get crystal clear reception at the bottom of a valley or ravine.

Ready to purchase the MS355R? Click the link below to see the current price.

Shakespeare’s Ugly Stik Elite Spinning Rod Review

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Looking for the perfect spinning rod to complement your spinning reel? Look no further because the Ugly Stik Elite is going to be the best one for you. Don’t let the name fool you either. The Ugly Stik Elite has a variety of sizes available for you and each one is widely popular.

Let’s explore what makes the Ugly Stick a bestseller.

Design

Ugly Stik has a variety of sizes available ranging from 4’6″ to 7’6″ with different weights between them. While not exactly related to the quality of the rod itself, it’s nice to know I can pick up a lighter or heavier rod of the same design if I wish. It beats having to get an entirely different one.

The Elite eliminates unnecessary bells and whistles that might come with higher end spinning rods. The handle is constructed of tough, stable cork while the extended rod is made of graphite. This graphite construction gives the rod above average strength but still keeps the overall weight low.

Depending on the length of the rod you purchase, you could have one or two seats. The seats are stainless steel and designed for maximum versatility should you get the slightest of bites at the end of the line.

Uses

For this rod, you’re going to want any type of spinning reel that works best for you. Beware of adding more weight, however, as it will become more difficult to handle. The reels themselves are usually mounted above the handle. The benefit of spinning reels is that they are interchangeable between the left and right hand and thus applicable to a wider range of experience levels.

The cork handle is something to appreciate as well. It’s as good of a grip as rubber and gives you a nostalgic feeling when using it. Owners of the Ugly Stick Elite have used it to catch everything from steelhead to trout and even bass.

If you start using line beyond 8lb’s, be aware that this is approaching the Ugly Stik’s maximum capability. Some owners have remarked that 10lb lines are creating grooves in the seats, which usually points to breakdown in the future.

Overall

Strength, durability, good handling are some of the most important factors when considering your next rod. We feel that the Ugly Stik checks all those boxes, making it a great overall rod.

One suggestion we have for a spinning reel is Pflueger’s President Spinning Wheel, a stable and corrosive resistant reel that’ll make an excellent addition to this rod. The best part is that its about the same price as the Ugly Stik. You can pick up both items for a total of around $100.

Bottom Line: We think the Ugly Stik is the spinning rod for you because its cheap, applicable for a range of reels, and its construction means its durable for years to come. Furthermore, its backed by a seven-year warranty should defects occur.

Thank the Ugly Stik is the rod for you? Click the link below to see the current price.

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