Camp Gadgets

Is portability a priority? 

• Pocket knives: Space-saving when the blade is not in use. Ideal for hiking, backpacking and everyday tasks. 
• Fixed-blade knives: Stronger, heftier and more comfortable in hand. Weigh more, take up more space and require a sheath for safe carrying. 

Which knife blade shape is best for you?  

Drop-point: Strong and versatile for a wide variety of heavy tasks and general knife work. 

Clip-point: Ideal for puncturing and detailed work, but not as strong as drop-point blades. 

Tanto: Extra strength for prying, scraping and piercing tough materials. 

Needle-point and spear-point: Ideal for survival situations, puncturing and throwing. 

Sheepsfoot and Santuko: Ideal for food preparation, like cutting, chopping and slicing. 

Choosing a multi-tool 

• Consider which activities you do where a multi-tool might be useful. Some multi-tools activity-specific gadgets, like a bit for adjusting bike disc brakes.  

• Common implements include one or more blades, standard and Phillips screwdrivers, scissors, wire cutter, saw, file, bottle opener and can opener.  

• Multi-tools come in small keychain-friendly and pocket sizes for backpacking and other activities where weight matters. Larger tools are for car camping. 

What do the numbers mean?

Model numbers on binoculars show magnification and size (objective lens diameter). In 8x42 binoculars, the 8 is magnification, and 42 is the objective lenses.

Choose your magnification

• 8x: Wider field of view
• 10x: Closer, more detailed look

Size

Size is based on the objective lenses (the second number)

• Compact: Under 30mm (8x25, 10x28); lighter weight
• Midsize: 30mm-40mm (10x30, 8x32)
• Full-size: Over 40mm (8x42, 10x50); brighter image but heavier

Best for your activity

Wildlife viewing

• 10x if watching animals from a distance
• Midsize if you want something more compact

Birding 

• Midsize or full-size models if weight isn't a concern
• 8x for a wider field of view to locate birds

Hiking or backpacking

• 8x or 10x magnification
• Compact size for easy packing