Best. Cake. Ever.

New Toy Want

Think users of AR15 carbines, whether law enforcement or civilian owners, have a dilemma in deciding on accessories. The AR15 carbine’s greatest appeal is that it is light and handy. Adding too many accessories can make the same carbine heavy and unwieldy. Often, in fact, the AR15 becomes heavier than many .308 carbines. I am somewhat conservative about adding accessories to my AR15s. However, there are certain ones I do consider highly useful.

I find the standard AR15 carbine telescoping stock adequate, but I prefer a stock upgrade. I also like accessory rails to give me the option of adding a compact yet effective light. Finally, I like an optical sight. These accessories will add weight, but they also add a great deal of versatility to the carbine especially in CQC (Close Quarters Combat) usage. With care, one can still keep overall weight of the carbine manageable.

Via Tactical-Life

Nice Post

Making commercials for the web

TV advertisers are finally discovering that YouTube + viral imagination = free media.

The good news for you is that money is not a barrier, which means that marketers of any size can play. But the rules are different, as they always are online.

Because media is free but attention is not (this is flipped from TV world) you need to make a different sort of ad for a different sort of audience.

1. Assume that the viewer has the attention span of an espresso-crazed fruitfly. That means slapstick, quick cuts and velocity.

2. Find a word or phrase that you can own in Google, that fits in an email, and that comes up in discussion at the cafeteria table or in the playground.

Castrol gets both rules right in this inane commercial.

3. Length doesn't matter. 10 seconds is fine and so is five minutes. Media is free, remember?

4. Challenge the status quo, be provocative, touch a social nerve or create some other sort of interesting conversation. In other words, a commercial worth watching.

Read the rest Via Seth

Bioshock2

Wired's review

LaCie Rugged XL
eSATA 3Gb/s | Hi-Speed USB 2.0
1TB


High-quality aluminum casing
Resistant and tough; rubber sleeve, internal bumper, and heat dissipation
Stylish, modern design with LED effect

Design by Neil Poulton

The LaCie Rugged XL, Design by Neil Poulton combines high-capacity storage with a user-centric design. Setup is effortless; it’s plug & play and offers customizable formatting with the LaCie Setup Assistant. LaCie Backup Assistant software is also included for PC/Mac users for easy, automatic backups. This advanced hard disk features aluminum casing, which provides superior protection on your desk. Its extremely resistant and tough design comes complete with a rubber sleeve, internal bumper, and heat dissipating features, making the LaCie Rugged XL both sturdy and effective. The LaCie Rugged XL makes a statement on your desktop, with its design, based on the original award-winning LaCie Rugged Hard Disk, and colorful presence. With versatile Hi-Speed USB 2.0 and the lightning-fast eSATA 3Gb/s interface means your Rugged XL will be as fast as it is reliable. The user-friendly LaCie Rugged XL, Design by Neil Poulton makes a great companion to your PC or Mac

lacie.com

My Name is Bond

Style and practicality find a perfect mix in the Deluxe Collection. This distinguished line of notebook cases comes with an added sense of security: heavy-duty chrome drawbolt latches. For your comfort, the Deluxe Collection includes a superior ergonomic handle and padded carrying strap.

With four sizes to choose from, whether you use your notebook for telecommuting or international travel, the Deluxe collection provides you with ample space, plenty of style, and all the notebook protection you need.

See OWC $365

i love this

Watch the video

Okay

I want one now. Video. It works.

Watch it. It's at the bottom.

Intersting

The S.O. TECH Go Bag Extended has the same great features as the S.O. Tech Go Bag, extended by 3". Built as a survival bag for America's elite special operations forces and pilots, the S.O. TECH Go Bag Extended is cylindrically shaped for smooth extraction from a downed aircraft or burning Humvee and easy access on the run. The Go Bag's shoulder strap is tactically worn over one shoulder or around the waist to give users quick access by rotating the bag from the back to the front of the waist. The main zippers are mounted internally towards the body in case of zipper blowout during vehicle impact. It is fitted to a Special Forces load list of survival gear, rations, radios, medical gear and ammunition.

Made of military-grade Cordura® cloth
Webbing and fasteners to US Special Forces specifications
Large main compartment with double linked zippers
Internal hydration reservoir slot (NOTE: Hydration bladder not included)
4 zippered flat side pockets for small items or documents
2 larger zippered external pockets
MOLLE/PALS/Flex-Tab™ attachment webbing on both sides
Padded contour single shoulder strap with quick-ditch side locking buckle
Shoulder attachment points & carry handles on each end
Perfect system for 17.5" devices and the upper and lower components of a similar device
S.O. Tech Go Bag Padded Insert (sold separately) for a broken down device or any other kit your mission dictates
Main Compartment Dimensions: 23" x 6" x 5.5"
Made in the USA

via uscav

Being Level Headed

Several level applications have made their way to the App Store but as far as I can tell, none of them has been especially accurate. Stanley appears to have changed that.

As long as you calibrate this correctly, you can get near 100% accuracy. In my tests, I was able to zero out on a flat surface and hit a perfect 90 degrees when placed vertically alongside a wall. Plus, you can switch between four different skins to match the look of your level to real levels in Stanley's product line. It may not be something you want to bring on the construction site, but if you have been waiting for a level app that can handle everyday tasks, this is probably as good as it can get on the current iPhone (and it won't cost a dime). [iTunes]

The Stanley Works Introduces the First iPhone™ App Designed by a S&P 500 Tool Manufacturer
Leader in Hand Tool Design and Innovation Explores the Frontier of Consumer Technology

New Britain, CT, – The Stanley Works (NYSE: "SWK"), a worldwide supplier of consumer products, industrial tools and security solutions, becomes the first S&P 500 tool manufacturer to launch an iPhone™ and iPod® touch application with the introduction of the STANLEY® Level. This new and free application is available online at the Apple App Store and brings users the accuracy and reliability of real world STANLEY® tools in virtual form. Four interchangeable application skins emulate existing STANLEY® levels to provide consumers with an opportunity to experience, research and learn about Stanley's extensive line of levels.

The STANLEY® Level harnesses the accelerometer, a digital gyroscope technology located in iPhone™and iPod® touch, to generate an understanding of where the device is in space. Once the user has downloaded the application they begin by calibrating the STANLEY® Level with a gravity driven (bubble) level to create a simulation in the iPhone™ or iPod® touch. When the calibration is complete, the STANLEY® Level is ready to take on a multitude of basic leveling tasks.

"The STANLEY® Level application combines more than a century's worth of hand tool manufacturing experience with today's latest digital technology," said Kevin Udy, channel manager for The Stanley Works. "Every Stanley® tool is designed to provide best-in-class end user benefits and the Level application is no exception. This handy app simplifies many jobs including the hanging of artwork or the mounting of shelves. The STANLEY® Level is just like the real thing but it's always in your pocket when you need it."

The STANLEY® Level application for iPhone™ and iPod touch® mobile digital devices offer users the following features:

* Functionality for everyday use
* Fast and easy calibration
* Interchangeable skins
* Stanley product info and history
* Helpful tips to ensure accuracy

The STANLEY® Level for iPhone™ and iPod touch® mobile digital devices is available for free from the online Apple App Store.

See Gizmodo

Wired Reviews Kindle

Amazon.com Kindle 2
$360 • amazon.com 8 out of 10

Kindle 2 Brings Books Closer to e-Nirvana


The most notable feature of the Kindle 2 (Amazon.com's long-awaited update to its groundbreaking but somewhat flawed electronic reading device) is that it's possible to pick it up and not turn the page. This sounds like faint praise, but anyone using the original Kindle quickly found the oversized buttons covering both sides of the device made grasping it a delicate, stressful task -- kind of like picking up a sea urchin. Anything less than perfect finger placement would lose your place.

More at wired

Wired Reviews Newton

Newton All Weather Trainer
$175 • newtonrunning.com 8 out of 10

High-Tech Running Shoes Good for Heart, Soul

The worst of the rainy season may be over (let's hope) but there are still plenty of wet, muddy months left in the year that make it unappealing to lace up the kicks and get out the door for a long run. It's all the more unappealing if you have a pair of high-dollar running shoes that you don't want ruined plodding through the muck and the mire. Enter these All-Weather Trainers from Newton. Lightweight, supportive and exceptionally high tech, they're also designed to ward off the worst of the wet and cold.

via wired

Cool thing

If you've ever spent hours putting molle pouches and having to rethread something after deciding to move it... this is for you!

The Magpul® Speed Threader for PALS Web Gear is a patent pending threading device for PALS and MOLLE webbing.

Can thread a two strap pouch (interlaced correctly) in about 60 seconds
Also can be used as a go/no go gauge for webbing
Made in the USA

Video


via USCAV

Decisions Decisions

Which one to want:










Professional picture storage device with ultrafast transfer speed, hard disks up to 250 GB, large, high resolution colour display and numerous picture functions

• 80, 120, 160 or 250 GB hard disk
• Display: high resolution 3.2” QVGA colour display (320 x 240 pixels)
• Ultrafast data transfer incl. data verification function (1 GB in 30 sec)
• TRUE RAW decoding of numerous RAW image files
• Functions: thumbnail view of pictures, slide show, picture rotation (90°, 180°, 270°), picture deletion, multi-level zoom function, user interface skin options, copying and deleting of files and folders, histogram display
• Supports incremental backup (synchronisation between memory card and hard disk, automatic incremental backup to most recent folder, manual incremental backup to user defined folder)
• Memory card slots for: CompactFlash I/II, MicroDrive, SD, SDHC, MMC, MS, MS Pro, MS MagicGate, MS Select, MS PRO MagicGate
• USB 2.0 high speed with OTG function
• Connection to PC: USB 2.0 high speed (backwards compatible to USB 1.1)
• Battery: rechargeable Li-ion battery (3.7 V, 2200 mAh)
• Battery capacity: up to 120 GB data transfer
• System requirements: Windows 2000/XP/Vista, Mac OS 9.x, 10.x & higher, Linux
• Dimensions: 133 x 75 x 25 mm
• Weight: 280 g
• Included in the package: USB cable, AC adapter (100-240V), car adapter, carrier bag, Instruction manual

Cant find a price yet...

or

• • 80, 120 and 160 GB hard disk storage capacity options
  • 3.7" Color TFT VGA (640x480)
  • Adjustable brightness 280 candela/m²
  • Built-in Card slot for CF I/II, MicroDrive
  • SD, SDHC (Adapter)
  • Removable Li-Ion-Battery
  • WiFi/WLAN compatible (optional CF-card required)
  • USB 2.0 (high-speed), USB 2.0 OTG
  • Dimensions 5.7 x 4.2 x 1.5 inches (145 x 107 x 38 mm)
  • Weight 14.8 ounces (420 g)

$879.95 @B&H

or



With a bright, beautiful 3.7-inch screen, this portable multimedia player gives the Epson P-4000 stiff competition. Rubberized and shock-resistant, it offers super fast transfers from CF cards; its DVI output lets you run a digital projector directly from the unit. Our favorite feature, though, is the Evolution’s ability to receive images wirelessly from a Wi-Fi D-SLR.”

• Photo Viewer, Digital Album and Multimedia Player
  Displays Photos with Extremely Vivid Brilliancy
  True Multimedia Portability
  
  High Capacity Hard Drive Options: 40-120 GB
  Store more than 40,000 photos
  Store more than 20,000 songs
  Store more than 100 hours of video

or

$879 @ Amazon

La Cie Rugged

These are great. Get the firewire if you have a mac

I use buy.com

The 500GB is the best.. You know you'll need the space on the road.
List Price: See Details $169.99
You Save: (12%) $22.00
Our Price: $147.99
Shipping: FREE

Tactical Camera Bag

When I was walking around and not shuffling from place to place, I used my own set up of camera bag.

I used a Spec-Ops brand :
M.C.B. - MODULAR COMBAT BANDOLEER

This picture shows it with pouches not included.

Basically it is a flat double-sided MOLLE bag.

I attached a P.U.P. - PADDED UTILITY POUCH
for my Nikon 70-200 2.8

I used a NVG case for my 14-24mm 2.8 or 28-70mm 2.8. I think it was a blackhawk . That didn't work well.

But overall it was an inside-out camera bag. Everything was accessible and easy to reach without flap being open. Each item was in its own pouch.

It was a fantastic kit if just a bit on the heavy side. I ended up only using this when I didn't have to go far as once I took out the 70-200mm to save weight - it got all floppy and really didn't work. The 70-200 gave it rigidity and made it it comfortable but heavy.

Now for a walkabout I use a Maxpedition FATBOY™ VERSIPACK.

About the bandoleer:

• MODULAR LOAD BEARING: FULL-COVERAGE GRID-LOK™ loops allow operator to fully customize components for mission specific needs. Also allows for ambidextrous carry.
• VERSATILE: Messenger bag design for multi-purpose/ on-the-move rapid carry and removal carry. Ideal as an Active Shooter Response Rig, Medic Bag, Document Bag, etc.
• EXTRA AMMO NOW: Allows the operator to carry several hundred extra rounds when needed without adding additional bulk to the IBA. – “Better have and not need, than to need and not have”.
• FUNCTIONAL: Monster sized YKK #10 zippered pocket for Meds, maps, documents, and other essentials.
• FULLY ADJUSTABLE: Shoulder and waist straps adjust quickly and easily to fit over IBA Body Armor systems – Just slip on, adjust and go.
• COMFORTABLE: Integral padded shoulder strap and flexible design minimize fatigue and load-related stresses.
• DURABLE: 1000 D. Cordura fabric, Patented Spec.-Ops. Brand® “BATTLE-BUCKLES™ and High Tenacity Nylon thread and webbing make for a rock-solid load-bearing platform. Redundant stitching and bar-tack reinforcements for extra durability.
• COMBAT READY: Fully approved color, shade and IRR compliance. The perfect addition to a vehicle crewman’s kit.

LOGISTICS POUCH

I used the crap outta this. I had my SB-800 flash and EL4 batteries and CF cards. This was part of my camera bag. sorta.

Gotta dig it out. Don't remember if I sold it.

OP-ORDER LOGISTICS POUCH
Layered Load Organization For Small Essential Gear Items.

PROBLEM: A fully-loaded tactical vest has no place to store logistical items like note pads, range cards, pens, pencils and small tools, or a GPS.


SOLUTION: The "OP-ORDER" Vest-mounted Logistics Pouch keeps these small mission essential items organized and easily accessible. It mounts to all types of vests, including the current issue Interceptor Body Armor as well as packs and belts.

• With a low profile of 2 inches thick by 6 inches wide by 8 inches tall, OP-ORDER fits with combat fighting load size requirements.
• GRID-LOK™ loops on the pouch face let the user mount extra gear or pouches as necessary. A large zippered opening and tilt-down panel design make it easy to access essentials on the move.
• Numerous inside pockets provide ample space to keep items organized. Tie-down points, a gear keeper leash and Dura-lastic loops keep everything in place and accounted for.
• OP-ORDER is made of 1000 Denier Cordura® fabric and is available in Black, Olive, Tan, Coyote Brown and ACU.
• Measures 7.25"x6.5"x1.607"
• Backed by Spec.-Ops. Brand’s unique lifetime guarantee

Metal USB Hub

Hurm.

Not sure of the brand but plastic hubs tend to break in the field. A lot. So put this in the want list.

Cables To Go 7 Port Aluminum USB 2.0 Hub - 29563 - Add seven high speed USB 2.0 ports to your computer



List Price: See Details $44.99
You Save: (60%) $27.00
Our Price: $17.99
Shipping: FREE
Buy.com Total Price: $17.99

buy.com

SureFire® Helmet Light

Want!

Made from tough, weatherproof Nitrolon® polymer and featuring virtually indestructible light-emitting diodes (LEDs), the lightweight Helmet Light attaches directly to the side of any TC 2000 MICH (Modular Integrated Communications Helmet). The watertight unit uses a single 123A lithium battery and six LEDs to produce three different types of light at multiple power levels. The three white LEDs are for general light use, the two blue are for first aid and protecting night vision, and one blinking red serves as a personal identifying "friend or foe" beacon.

• TEAM SOLDIER CERTIFIED GEAR - Approved Family of Flashlights List (AFFL) What's This?
• Durable glass-filled nylon polymer and neoprene body
• Watertight for all-weather use
• Lumens/Run Times:
• White (high) - 19.2 lumens/6 hours
• Blue (high) - 2.5 lumens/20 hours
• White (med) - 5 lumens/28 hours
• Blue (med) - .8 lumens/48 hours
• White (low) - 1.4 lumens/48 hours
• Blue (low) - .3 lumens/96 hours
• IFF beacon - 1.72 mw/120 hours
• HL1-A-TN features three white LEDs, two blue LEDs, and one blinking infrared LED that serves as a personal Identify Friend or Foe (IFF) beacon
• HL1-B-TN features three white LEDs, two infrared LEDs, and one blinking infrared LED that serves as a personal Identify Friend or Foe (IFF) beacon
• HL1-C-TN features three white LEDs, two red LEDs, and one blinking infrared LED that serves as a personal Identify Friend or Foe (IFF) beacon
• HL1-D-TN features three yellow-green LEDs, two infrared LEDs, and one blinking infrared LED that serves as a personal Identify Friend or Foe (IFF) beacon
• Two toggle switches and a pressure switch for control
• Requires one 123A 3-volt lithium battery
• Dimensions: 2.2" x 2.6" x 1.3"
• Made in the USA

I love think geek

I love think geek. I'd love to get footage of the major league doorkickers with this...

Features

• Full-function, hands-free, digital recording
• Waterproof up to 3 meters and shock-resistant for extreme conditions
• Mounts easily on helmets, handlebars, and other sports equipment
• 640 x 480 VGA resolution at 30 frames per second
• USB and RCA cables included for easy playback on PC or TV (NTSC)
• SD card expansion up to 2GB – onboard memory is 32MB
• Operates with 2 AA batteries, not included
• Dimensions: 4.25L x 1.75D x 2.25H (in.)

BEST APRIL 1ST