The Magazine of Lightweight Hiking and Backcountry Travel

Today's Features

M MYOG Titanium/Carbon Fiber Ice Axe

By Steven Evans and Roger Caffin | on May 13 | in Techniques » Make Your Own Gear
Following the Review of the ULA Helix Potty Trowel, there was considerable discussion on the Backpacking Light Forum (MYOG, DIY walking axe) regarding the use of a light "ice axe" in areas where one's life or ultimate safety would not be an issue. The author, Steven Evans, asked specific questions regarding the required length of such an ice axe, the general use of such an ice axe, and what people used in situations where a UIAA-certified ice axe would be overkill, but where a tool of some sort would be nice to have. Such a tool could be used to assist in small steep sections of snow and ice and general up-hill travel in less then desirable conditions, but it would have a weight which would be negligible on one's back when not in use. This project was born from that discussion.

Podcast: NOLS and the 40 Pound Initiative

By Ron Craighead and Nicole Chilton | on May 13 | in Trends » Podcasts
NOLS Rocky Mountain discusses the process and progress of the 40-Pound Initiative, a branch effort to reduce student pack weights to 40 pounds or less for all Wind River courses.

WetFire Tinder (8-Pack)

on May 13 | in Accessories » Firestarting Supplies
This 0.2 oz waterproof cube will have you singing the Doors and warming up in the wettest conditions imaginable.

Outdoor Research Endeavor Mitt SPOTLITE REVIEW

By Will Rietveld | on May 13 | in Gear » SpotLite Reviews
Lightweight durable shell mitt especially suited for snow sports or any situation where a more durable waterproof-breathable mitt is needed.

Ti (Titanium) Pen

on May 13 | in Accessories » Waterproof Pens & Paper
Less than half an ounce with the legendary durability of both titanium and carbon fiber in an all-weather writing instrument.

Recent Features

Packrafting! An Introduction and How-To Guide (PRINT EDITION)

on May 06 | in Publications » Books
The world's first instructional and inspirational volume about packrafting, by the sport's leading authority.

Packrafting! An Introduction and How-To Guide (DIGITAL EDITION)

on May 06 | in Publications » Books
The world's first instructional and inspirational volume about packrafting, by the sport's leading authority.

Komperdell Touring Glove Spotlite Review

By Will Rietveld and Janet Reichl | on May 06 | in Gear » SpotLite Reviews
Gloves made with Komperdell's new seamless bonding construction get a mixed review.

M Hypothermia

By Darin Banner | on May 06 | in Techniques » Techniques & Best Practices
Avoiding and treating hypothermia in the backcountry with ultralight equipment.

M MYOG - A Winter Canister Stove using your Summer Upright Stove and the Brunton Stove Stand

By Roger Caffin | on May 06 | in Techniques » Make Your Own Gear
The Brunton Stove Stand is a nice bit of engineering, but is it really of any use? Oh yes: it can be turned into a neat winter stove with just a little DIY effort.

Features Archive

BPL is hiring!
Members only Closouts
Bpl Bible - A field guide to wilderness equipment, technique, and style

BPL News | Sign Up Now

About BPL News | BPL News Archives