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  1. Mark.c

    MR Gravelly 18 vs Mule Opinions

    I ended up not modifying the Mile Pack. There is no easy way to add shoulder straps without sewing.
  2. Mark.c

    .223 for bear, mountain goat, deer, elk, and moose.

    My opinion may be conventional but it is based on 30+ years of hunting experience. The dead deer “evidence” photos are certainly interesting. Any bullet can kill with a good shot but IMO using a small caliber un-bonded cup core target bullet for hunting big game is not ideal. Sierra...
  3. Mark.c

    .223 for bear, mountain goat, deer, elk, and moose.

    Actually I did follow the thread. I am surprised as to some of the oddly defensive reactions from the 77grain 5.56 crowd when offered other points of view. I have seen lighter caliber shots big game animals go poorly resulting in loss or a drawn out track. Certainly use the legal caliber of...
  4. Mark.c

    .223 for bear, mountain goat, deer, elk, and moose.

    “Army's fiscal 2025 budget request, the service has a long-term plan of buying 111,428 XM7 rifles, 13,334 XM250 automatic rifles, and 124,749 XM157 Fire Control devices..” https://www.military.com/daily-news/2024/03/29/army-has-finally-fielded-its-next-generation-squad-weapons.html I will...
  5. Mark.c

    .223 for bear, mountain goat, deer, elk, and moose.

    The military is moving away from the 5.56 to larger calibers due the sub standard lethality. They went with the 5.56 due to weight carried by soldiers. Part of that is the FMJ, particularly M855 with the steel penetrator. A 77 grain hunting bullet is a better choice than FMJ (and required by...
  6. Mark.c

    Which company is making the best zip off base layer bottoms?

    I have had good results with the ULTRA Merino 145 Zip-Off Bottom. Not too bulky under your pants and comfortable. I also carry zip-off puffy pants when it’s really cold for when I am static rather than wearing heavier pants. Makes for easy layering.
  7. Mark.c

    What caused the Rokslide shift to smallest caliber and cartridges?

    Another aspect: Larger calibers have a wide range of bullet weight and powder charges available. You can tailor it based on the animal size, expected shot distance, environment and species type. Many times low-mid range powder charges prove most accurate, reducing recoil but still have plenty...
  8. Mark.c

    MR Gravelly 18 vs Mule Opinions

    I currently have a MR Guide Lite MT frame with a Mule bag. This is my go to big game day pack. I would like to get opinions on the new MT Gravelly 18 bag as a replacement for the mule. I like the idea of the shoulder straps to give better utility. I am interested in the functionality of the...
  9. Mark.c

    Best footwear

    In the military I used Danner boots in very snowy cold winter weather with good results. Danner’s are much better than issued military boots. That being said, a set of high-end hunting boots are even better. I would suggest pairing them with knee-high gaiters.
  10. Mark.c

    Older 700 triggers

    Both my 700s had either the Walker trigger or X Mark Pro trigger from the factory. I replaced both with a Shilen and a Timney. The walker trigger was too heavy for me. The adjustable X trigger was recalled by Remington could slam fire if adjusted too light. I have no regrets about it.
  11. Mark.c

    WTS Leupold Gold Ring Compact 15-30x50 Spotting Scope

    Price dropped to $375 shipped USPS Priority Mail for USA addresses.
  12. Mark.c

    Hunting near US/Mexico border

    Looked on their own. I did not see any coyotes with them. Likely asylum seekers.
  13. Mark.c

    Hunting near US/Mexico border

    I hunt near the border in San Diego County CA. Here we get a lot of military age male Chinese and African illegals. Most just want to get to a highway where they have an arranged pick-up on Tick Tok and won’t mess with you. Carry a handgun. Take a buddy. Never help the illegals. Have BP and...
  14. Mark.c

    2024 CA Draw Resukts

    G13 San Diego Anterless.
  15. Mark.c

    Has anyone used their bear spray?

    If bears are in the area then I bring both spray and a suitable handgun/ammo. The only time I got close to using my bear spray was on an hiker’s unleashed dog. Better to have than not.
  16. Mark.c

    Anyone rent vehicles on hunting trips?

    Rented several SUVs for hunts. The other consideration is to rent so you don’t put a bunch of milage on your personal vehicle. 1. Make sure you understand the rental agreement and opt for additional coverage if needed. Backcountry towing is crazy expensive. Tires are not covered and are the...
  17. Mark.c

    DIY First Aid Kit

    I agree you can never be 100% set up. Some guys like a small waist pack set up for on-body carry of essential items for various activities. They work well with pack belts and are more convenient for clothing changes. https://awsin.com/50360-snack-pack/
  18. Mark.c

    DIY First Aid Kit

    Another consideration is to have immediate access to trauma items (TQ, pressure bandage, clot gauze, etc.) possibly separate from the med kit “extras” for long term care. I have seen med kits buried in backpacks or left when conducting a stalk. I typically keep my med kit in a detachable...
  19. Mark.c

    Do majority of people sell there guns when they upgrade/replace with a new one?

    Generally I am looking to add capabilities when I purchase, something that fills a niche so no need to sell (yet).
  20. Mark.c

    Nalgene holster question

    The belt mounted Nalgene pouches work great. Pick whatever works with your pack belt. Always suggest carrying a back-up pistol when legal.

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