What’s in the Box
Heater (replacement safety shutoff with orifice assembly, thermocouple lead, plenum assembly, grid screen assembly, replacement regulator with soft nose POL, wire faceguard, knurled lock nut, reflector, replacement regulator H-M-L w/S.S., tank union T/C, orifice)
Five Tips for Buying a Heater
Choosing a space heater is a matter of sifting through a bewildering array of types, power ratings, and fuel sources. Let’s break it down a little to make the process easier.
What are the different types of space heaters?
- Radiant heaters emit infrared radiation that directly warms the objects in front of the heaters (rather than the surrounding air). If you only need heat by a desk or in a small section of a room, a radiant heater is quiet and will use very little power.
- Forced-air heaters use a fan to blow air that has been warmed by metal or ceramic heating elements. A forced-air heater is appropriate for quickly heating up a small- to medium-sized room, but can be noisy.
- Convection heaters draw cold air from the floor; the air is warmed by heating coils and emitted from the top of the heater. A convection heater is appropriate for quickly heating up a small- to medium-sized room, but also can be noisy.
- Radiators work by heating oil enclosed in a reservoir, gradually heating the surrounding air. If heating speed isn’t an issue, you might want to opt for a radiator. These are extremely quiet and effective–perfect for bedrooms.
Should I buy an electric or a combustion model?
If you want a heater that will be available in emergencies, or that can heat areas larger than a single room, choose a “combustion” model–one that is powered by a gas or fuel like propane, kerosene, natural gas, or diesel. Which fuel type you choose depends largely on convenience and local availability. For example, diesel would be appropriate for a heater you take with you on long car trips.
How powerful a heater do I need?
Heaters are rated by BTU, which stands for British Thermal Unit (the amount of heat needed to heat one pound of water by 1 degree F). To find out how many BTU you need:
- Calculate the volume of the space to be heated by multiplying square footage by height.
- Multiply that number by 4 if your insulation is poor, 3 if it’s average, or 2 if it’s good.
The resulting number is a ballpark figure for how many BTU you’ll need.
Do space heaters cost a lot to operate?
As a general rule, electric space heaters are more expensive to use than combustion models. To ensure energy efficiency, a thermostat is a must-have feature for any heater. For radiant heaters, models with a 360 degree heating surface can heat larger spaces. If you need a forced-air heater, models with ceramic elements tend to be more efficient.
Are space heaters a fire hazard?
Space heaters are implicated in about 25,000 residential fires every year. To ensure proper safety, always follow the manufacturer’s usage instructions and fill out the warranty card to receive informational updates from the manufacturer. Also, look for extra safety features such as an automatic shutoff switch that can shut down the unit if, for example, it gets upended. In addition, choose a model where the heating element is adequately enclosed within the unit.
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The 530HCx navigator/2-way radio is compact and lightweight, with a 10.3-ounce housing that won’t slow you down on the trail. |
Like the rest of the Rino series, the Rino 530HCx offers a unique Position Reporting feature, which lets you send your exact location to other Rino users in your group so that everyone can see your position on the map page. No more worrying about the lagging hikers in your group each time you reach a fork in the trail. Plus, because the 530HCx is a standard FRS/GMRS radio, you can use it to communicate with other conventional FRS/GMRS radios in the area.
The 530HCx is also equipped with a built-in electronic compass that provides bearing information even when you’re standing still, along with a barometric altimeter that tracks changes in pressure to pinpoint your precise altitude. You can even use the altimeter to plot barometric pressure over time, which can help you keep an eye on changing weather conditions. And thanks to the NOAA weather radio, you’ll know well in advance when a storm is advancing.
Receive detailed mapping information on the navigator’s 1.3-by-1.7-inch, 256-color TFT display. |
Perhaps the most important feature, however, is the crystal-clear 256-color TFT display, which clearly shows attributes from the built-in basemap, including lakes, rivers, cities, interstates, national and state highways, railroads, and coastlines–in short, a host of helpful details for your outdoor adventures. Users can also expand the mapping possibilities via the microSD card slot, which accepts cards preloaded with MapSource data for your land and sea excursions. Just insert a MapSource card with detailed street maps and the Rino 530HCx will provide step-by-step or turn-by-turn directions to your destination.
Other details include a USB interface, 500 waypoints and 50 routes, a hunt/fish calendar, hands-free voice activation (requires separately sold headset), a voice scrambler, and external temperature recording. The Rino 530HCx, which includes a rechargeable lithium-ion battery that runs for up to 14 hours per charge, measures 2.3 by 5.1 by 1.8 inches (W x H x D) and is backed by a one-year warranty.
What’s in the Box
Rino 530HCx radio, Americas Recreational basemap, wrist strap, belt clip, USB cable, lithium-ion battery pack and charger, MapSource Trip & Waypoint Manager, AC adapter, quick-start guide, user’s manual.[/ReviewAZON]
 Charge’s pliers have been redesigned to handle 133% more squeezing load. | |
 Charge’s locks are 50% stronger than Leatherman’s original tools. |
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 Bronze bushings make the interior tools smooth and quick to open. selection to fit any activity and the Charge sheath allows you to carry the additional bits anywhere you go. | |
 The TTi clip-point blade is crafted from S30V stainless steel, which offers an optimal combination of edge retention, flexibility and hardness. The handle is made from ultra-light, super-strong titanium. | |
 The Leatherman Charge TTi packs a knife blade with one of the longest and strongest cutting edges of any multi-tool on the market today. | |
 The Charge TTi and ALX are the first multitools with a cutting hook that slices through seat belts and linoleum just as easily as leather or canvas |
When it comes to multitools, there’s one brand that stands out from the rest: Leatherman. The name is synonymous with quality and innovation, and each successive generation of Leatherman tools improves upon the last. Sticking with its tradition of pushing the design envelope, Leatherman introduces the Charge TTi, a high-end, ultra-compact multitool featuring titanium handles. If you’re looking to carry the best of what Leatherman has to offer, the TTi is for you.
The Charge Family
The Charge TTi is part of a broader line of Leatherman multitools bearing the Charge name. Originally, the Charge line consisted of the Ti and the XTi, two high-end tools whose major distinguishing characteristic was having handles made from titanium. For 2007, Leatherman has added three new members to the Charge family: the TTi, the ALX, and the AL. As you might expect, the TTi is an upgraded version of the Ti and XTi. The AL and ALX, meanwhile, come with handles made from 6061 T6 aluminum, an ultra-light and super-strong material used in aircraft construction. There are also minor variations among the tools included in each unit. We’ll discuss those shortly.
Leatherman has added several key design elements to all of these gorgeous new Charge tools. For instance, the knife blades are bigger and wider to give you more cutting edge. The pliers can withstand 133% higher squeezing load than Leatherman’s original tools, enabling a tighter hold for tough jobs. You’ll never have to worry about the Charge coming unhinged, either, thanks to a 50% increase in lock strength. Multiple bit drivers also are a standard feature, and each tool has bronze bushings at the hinges to make opening components a snap.
Titanium vs. Aluminum
You may be asking whether you want to buy titanium or aluminum. Although both offer superior durability and strength, titanium has an edge in both departments. Titanium is also slightly lighter than aluminum, so it would be a good choice if weight is a major concern. However, titanium also costs more, which is something to factor in if saving .2 ounces doesn’t matter.
The Charge TTi
The TTi supplants the XTi as Leatherman’s top-of-the-line multitool. Not only is the TTi .10 ounces lighter than the XTi, but it also packs an S30V stainless steel knife that delivers an optimal combination of edge retention, flexibility, and hardness. This is an upgrade from the XTi’s 154CM steel knife, which previously was the highest grade knife you could get from Leatherman (incidentally, Leatherman outfitted the Charge ALX and AL come with 154CM blades, an upgrade from the standard 420 series knife). The TTi also has a crimper and a cutting hook. The crimper is an ideal accessory for anyone working with electrical wires or metals, while the hook is a fantastic addition for those who need to be ready for emergency situations.
The TTi combines the features of the ALX and the AL into a single package (There is one small exception: the ALX is the only Charge to have two large bit drivers.). For example, if you’re looking at the ALX or the AL you’ll have to choose whether you want a cutting hook or scissors, because neither has both (the ALX has a cutting hook while the AL has scissors). If you think you might need a cutting and scissors in the same multitool, then you should strongly consider the TTi. Full TTi specs:
- Titanium handles (exclusive to TTi)
- Needlenose pliers
- Regular pliers
- Wire cutters
- Hard-wire cutters
- S30V Clip-point knife (exclusive to TTi)
- Saw
- Serrated knife
- Wood/metal file
- Diamond-coated file
- Scissors
- Large bit driver
- Small bit driver
- 9 double-end bits
- Ruler (8 inch)
- Bottle/can opener
- Wire stripper
- fixed lanyard ring
- Quick-release lanyard ring
- Removable pocket clip
All three Charge iterations come with a premium leather or nylon sheath. Both versions will carry the tools in their open or closed position and two side pockets hold your extra necessities—even a mini-flashlight. An inside back pocket holds Charge’s included bits and has room for a full Bit Kit (sold separately) giving you up to 42 bits to choose from. Don’t want to wear a sheath? Then clip your Charge to your jacket, backpack or car’s visor with the removable pocket clip. Or, choose the quick-release lanyard ring. With it, you’re able to safely keep the tool on any lanyard and detach it quickly when you need it.
What’s in the Box
Leatherman Charge TTi multitool, nylon carrying case, 8 double ended drill and screw bits, removable pocket clip, quick-release lanyard ring
The Leatherman Story
The Leatherman phenomenon began in 1975 when founder Tim Leatherman embarked on a trip across Europe and the Middle East in a cranky Fiat. Leatherman, an engineer by training, became so fed up with breakdowns and other hassles that he fashioned a prototype of what he called a Pocket Survival Tool out of cardboard. Two years later the first PST was born in his basement, and the rest is history. Today the Leatherman company produces dozens of different multitools, knives, pruners, and accessories, and is recognized across the world for its cutting edge designs and superior quality.[/ReviewAZON]
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Portable Power for All Your Electronics
A perfect companion for road trips, vacations, and camping, the Powerpack Solar can simultaneously run multiple devices thanks to its two 120-volt AC outlets, single 12-volt DC outlet, and USB port. The powerful built-in 400-watt inverter and sealed, spill-free 10-amp/hour AGM battery can power anything from a CD player to a 13-inch TV to a laptop to an air compressor. At the same time, the built-in USB port makes it easy to charge digital music players, cell phones, computer peripherals, and more.
A handy three-digit display helps you keep tabs on your Powerpack Solar’s battery power. For those times when you want to conserve your battery, an AC charger is included for charging from a standard wall outlet, and a DC charger is included for charging from a vehicle or RV battery.
For added convenience, the Powerpack Solar runs quietly, making it a great alternative to a generator. Non-slip rubber surrounds protect the Powerpack Solar from bumps and scuffs, and two built-in lamps help you set up the unit when the lights go out or when you’re getting cozy in a tent.
Clean, Green Renewable Solar Power
The XPower Powerpack Solar is the first power pack to incorporate solar power in a compact, portable power source. It’s completely self renewing, which means the five-watt solar panel captures, stores, and converts the sun’s energy, replenishes the XPower Powerpack Solar’s battery, and extends the runtime of many devices by up to 25 percent. An added bonus, the solar panel is detachable, so you can charge the battery and leave the panel in a safe place when you go to the beach or tackle the trail.
The XPower Powerpack Solar is covered by a six-month warranty. It measures 15.0 x 4.5 x 10.25 inches (LxWxH) and weighs 12.3 pounds.
About Xantrex
Xantrex Technology Inc. (xantrex.com), a subsidiary of Schneider Electric, is a world leader in the development, manufacturing and marketing of advanced power electronic products and systems for the renewable and mobile power markets. The company’s products convert and control raw electrical power from any central, distributed, renewable, or backup power source into high-quality power required by electronic equipment and the electricity grid. Xantrex is headquartered in Vancouver, Canada, with facilities in the United States, Germany and Spain, and a joint venture in China.
What’s in the Box
Rechargeable solar-powered battery pack, AC charger, and DC charger.
 Use it while camping, at the beach, or even from your own backyard to operate anything from laptops to cell phones. The AC outlets, DC socket, and USB port can work simultaneously. |
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The FlareAlertTM also saves you from the hassle of dealing with hundreds of incendiary flares. Consider this: One FlareAlertTM provides approx. 20 hours of safety before a battery change is needed. You would have to strike 80 incendiary flares, one after another, to achieve the same 20 hours of safety. Just think of the mess!!![/ReviewAZON]