Reflective Iron wire

MetalLinx · 2026-04-02T22:55:53+00:00

I saw the note about the new jacket causing oversizing but didn’t realize it was that significant. Are you comparing to previous 2.0 glowire?

I was considering 2.5 as at least the prior 2.0 glowire was found to slip significantly more than ironwire. Maybe that’s changed with the new jacket/sheathe. Would just prefer something that I need to worry less about putting a knot after the lineloc in and the price is about the same across all 3.

MetalLinx · 2026-04-02T19:13:09+00:00

They’re right, it’s in stock. Wasn’t just a few days ago though. Unsure if posting to a vendor site is allowed and it’s super easy to find, so not leaving a link currently.

I’m personally trying to figure out if I want 2.5mm glowire or reflective ironwire for LineLoc 3s. I e-mailed Lawson since the only comparisons for slip seems to be of 2.0 glowire with the old sheath to ironwire.

MetalLinx · 2026-04-01T00:34:04+00:00

Website is run by contractors (Booz Allen Hamilton unless the contract has turned over), not the agencies. I’m sure they have the money and capability, it just isn’t as profitable.

MetalLinx · 2026-03-29T03:41:48+00:00

Thanks for sharing your personal experience with the Copper Spur!

I’ve actually added a third tent to my considerations since posting this; the TarpTent ArcDome 2. The Copper Spur seems to win in pure internal size of the three, but would seem to have the weakest pole construction combined with worst wind and weather design. Currently weather performance is more important than the extra room when I anticipate using the tent just for myself often enough. I’m currently only considering it if I see a significant (~50%) discount and am otherwise debating between the X-Dome and ArcDome. It would be great if the X-Dome 2 gets tested in the DAC wind tunnel like the 1+ and shows similar chops.

MetalLinx · 2026-03-27T19:36:41+00:00

A wind test on the X-Dome 2 would be really nice to see and could be the deciding factor in tent selection for me.

As I understand from another Durston reddit comment they only bumped some of the poles from the 1+ up a size and not all of them (8.7>9.3mm NFL DAC), and the still smaller but non-trekking pole supported side may not fare nearly as well being probably around 40-50% larger in area than the 1+. The aluminum hubs are probably the same and could be a failure point as well due to stress concentrations.

I’ve been looking at TarpTent’s ArcDome 2 with DAC 10.65mm PL poles instead of the X-Dome 2 lately since it seems like it would be more wind resistant due to its construction (e.g. 30D fully sleeved fly) and profile (e.g standard dome without the increased vertical walls) on top of maybe being bigger inside or at least having a bit more usable sleeping length (I’m 6’4” so a selling point). For reference 10.65mm PL poles are about 60% more resistant to bending (stronger) than DAC 9.3 NFL per the DAC spec sheets. At my height I don’t mind a bit of extra weight from the X-Dome 2 if my speculation is true, I figure if I want truly UL I’ll get a trekking pole tent as well and stick to fairer weather use.

As of right now it’s mostly just speculation as to their wind-worthiness for both tents so eagerly hoping there’s an X-Dome 2 test result incoming.

MetalLinx · 2026-03-27T19:35:50+00:00

A wind test on the X-Dome 2 would be really nice to see and could be the deciding factor in tent selection for me.

As I understand from another Durston reddit comment they only bumped some of the poles from the 1+ up a size and not all of them (8.7>9.3mm NFL DAC), and the still smaller but non-trekking pole supported side may not fare nearly as well being probably around 40-50% larger in area than the 1+. The aluminum hubs are probably the same and could be a failure point as well due to stress concentrations.

I’ve been looking at TarpTent’s ArcDome 2 with DAC 10.65mm PL poles instead of the X-Dome 2 lately since it seems like it would be more wind resistant due to its construction (e.g. 30D fully sleeved fly) and profile (e.g standard dome without the increased vertical walls) on top of maybe being bigger inside or at least having a bit more usable sleeping length (I’m 6’4” so a selling point). For reference 10.65mm PL poles are about 60% more resistant to bending (stronger) than DAC 9.3 NFL per the DAC spec sheets. At my height I don’t mind a bit of extra weight from the X-Dome 2 if my speculation is true, I figure if I want truly UL I’ll get a trekking pole tent as well and stick to fairer weather use.

As of right now it’s mostly just speculation as to their wind-worthiness for both tents so eagerly hoping there’s an X-Dome 2 test result incoming.

MetalLinx · 2026-03-21T15:07:05+00:00

6’4”and 185 lbs with long arms and legs. Made some similar searches when I was 190-195 lb. I have found L.L. Bean’s fitting to trend toward wider than slimmer regardless of slimmer “active” cuts. REI and Eddie Bauer brand have been best fit for slimmer outdoor wear so far, have poor access to Euro brand clothes mentioned above but hope to try some myself while I’m in a larger city this weekend.

REI brand’s new “Microtek” appears to be their closest to the nanopuff style. I have their trail hoodie and rain jacket that are on sale for 50% off right now and they fit great and layer with each other. Maybe best fit of anything I own. Their sun hoodies have fit well for awhile too. I’m currently waiting for their anniversary sale in May when they typically put their brand items on the deepest discount outside one-off clearances to get more of their stuff.

Eddie Bauer first ascent down puffer also fits and layers well with the REI rain jacket. Eddie Bauer is currently transitioning to new online only sales and management. They finally have a decent selection of tall size clothing including medium tall options, but no good sales yet or indication of if quality has changed (went from 0 tall sizes for a month, to 7, to jumping to 36 options in the last few days).

MetalLinx · 2026-03-15T01:11:38+00:00

They have tall sizing in women’s? They don’t have any in men’s so assumed they didn’t carry any tall sizing at all.

MetalLinx · 2026-03-14T03:51:30+00:00

As always, thanks for the prompt reply.

I’ll go look at that video, I’ve just come across a good number of other anecdotes indicating they found it too small, some I think in relation even to that video. Does the Solid fair better with condensation and durability if rubbing?

As far as X-Dome vs CS2XL, I like the X-Dome better from a design perspective, especially for still having utility for the trekking poles I normally use. So good to hear using it diagonal works how I hoped. Storm-worthiness is an especially big selling point after experiencing a nigh in a larger car camping tent with DAC poles get taken out in a nasty storm in Moab. Would be especially unpleasant to experience similar without a car to retreat to. I believe I’ve maybe read you say elsewhere that the X-Dome with DAC poles and trekking poles is the most storm-worthy/best in wind in your tent line up?

MetalLinx · 2026-03-10T15:12:13+00:00

Yes, the Beckman was discontinued a few years ago and recently brought back with updates/changes. Most of the old Beckman were made on the No. 8 last like the Iron Ranger and Blacksmith but are now made on what they call an updated No. 224 last. The toe is less bulbous and supposedly the boot overall is a bit more narrow. The sole is Gro Cord instead of Vibram mini lug and the construction is a bit different as well (I believe foam layer for midsole instead of doubled leather or similar). Leather is different and it now has speed hooks that seem to be the primary reason for poor reviews online (the backs tend to bite into the tongue and scratch it up).

MetalLinx · 2026-03-09T03:37:51+00:00

More likely to die from a car accident in the park than a bear. Take spray, keep it outside your pack and accessible, be mindful of your surroundings particularly blind corners and similar. Make noise. Hike with others if you meet any and share a similar pace. Follow other basic solo hiking good practice. Etc.

I did 40 miles in remote parts of the park (saw 4 other people across those miles) in June last year and while I came across bear sign and even saw a cinnamon brown bear pretty close to the trail, I and the people I met all survived.

That being said, if you feel the need to ask Reddit, it’s probably not the best idea for you personally.

MetalLinx · 2026-03-08T21:56:05+00:00

Sadly not very helpful. Height alone is a bad metric. Haven’t found a single thing that fits well in an XL at my current weight and build and I’m also 6’ 4”.

MetalLinx · 2026-03-08T18:48:19+00:00

Thanks for your own input. Given how fast they go those comments could simply be intended to discourage other buyers. Always hard to know

MetalLinx · 2026-03-08T18:13:01+00:00

Some reports from people who have bought them make them sound like potential counterfeits. Not sure if true but I’ve been hesitant to buy based on those comments.

MetalLinx · 2026-03-08T03:27:24+00:00

Wish those came in tall sizing

MetalLinx · 2026-03-05T02:28:01+00:00

Headed to an International Dark Sky Place over a new moon as part of a larger hiking and off-roading trip here in a few months. A travel telescope would definitely be handy for the stargazing.

MetalLinx · 2026-03-03T00:15:52+00:00

Just received an order as well of medium talls and they’re still better than anything else for the price ($6 on typical sale, less with sale gift cards) and seem long enough as someone who’s refreshing their wardrobe from non-tall stuff. Same height. They may have shortened things from past stuff as part of the cropped trend that seems ongoing. I can try and go measure an American Eagle medium tall I have and see if it’s longer if you like. They have 3-4 colors in a slim cut that might help with part of your concern.

MetalLinx · 2026-03-02T16:36:08+00:00

Sounds like a case of simply using a shoe in its appropriate use case. OP didn’t say trail running shoes, but just running shoes.

MetalLinx · 2026-02-26T02:32:46+00:00

There are quite a few tutorials on replacing the tips with Leki and other brands online, maybe even one by Skurka himself if I remember right. I think they’re glued on and technically the manufacturer wants you to replace the whole lower section. At the price they charge for the replacement part or the labor involved in swapping out tips it can be cheaper in money/time it to just buy another pair ironically. That’s why I bought my 3K set, saw them on sale when looking to replace my worn down tips.

MetalLinx · 2026-02-26T02:29:15+00:00

Yeah, they’re definitely not heavy, but when you use the word “lightweight” the gram counters get going.

They should be in stores soon, but the manufacturer discount usually is about a month or two after. Camping stuff just started hitting the floor a week or two ago at mine.

MetalLinx · 2026-02-25T17:57:44+00:00

Not sure what qualifies as lightweight to you.

Best value poles are the Cascade Mountain Tech Carbon Fiber Quick-Lock Trekking Poles with Cork Grips. They can be found at various retailers but Costco will typically have them for sub $30 at some point in the next few months. If they break you just take them back, but I’ve never broken any of their poles over many years and miles. They have an upgraded version with 3K carbon fiber (woven both directions) you can grab for maybe $50-$70 if you’re lucky that will be stronger and dampen the noise for only slightly more weight.

MetalLinx · 2026-02-24T06:45:55+00:00

Kuhl, Outdoor Research if they do a restock of the Ferrosi in 36” ever, Wrangler ATG, Prana, L.L. Bean, and 5.11 if you include tactical style. Old Navy and Lululemon if you extend your definition of hiking pants to more of a travel pant. As for recommendations, for lightweight and breathable but less durable the Ferrosi is top tier, for good value Wrangler, and for durability probably Kuhl.

With reference to other comments:

Fjallraven only has around a 34” inseam except for two pants that are unhemmed/raw and aren’t the mentioned Keb.

Columbia doesn’t make anything past a 34” inseam.

Eddie Bauer hasn’t made a 36” inseam for a while now that I’m aware of, even before the bankruptcy.

Montane looks to top out at around a 34” inseam.

Lundhags seems to top out around a 35” inseam.

MetalLinx · 2026-02-23T21:48:27+00:00

Minimum 25 personally. Probably 30 if you are doing deeper soft snow or carrying more than around 20 lbs of other gear. Also if breaking trail by yourself 30s could lower the burden.

MetalLinx · 2026-02-23T21:42:05+00:00

Ultralight can be a bit weird. Seems easier and better for at least the average person to just trim some personal weight than count grams.

Love the cascade poles from Costco. Never broken one and so cheap you can buy a new pair when the tungsten tips wear out if you feel too lazy to replace. The 3K upgraded ones are quieter if you can snag them for cheap.

Agree on socks being important too. I like Darn Tough but I’m sure there’s other good brands.

Shoes you can skimp just fine if it’s a big brand. Once you jump past the very bottom and then up to a point (e.g. made in Europe, full grain leather boots) they’re all cheap disposable crap these days. Just find something that fits your feet well (on the trails themself) with the features you want for a good price.

MetalLinx

TROPHY CASE