Items of Want 010

[Acquired] Field Notes Shelterwood Edition


The latest (at time of original posting) limited edition memo books coming from Field Notes are the Shelterwood Edition notebooks. Each cover is unique in that they are made from actual thinly sliced American Cherry wood.

[Acquired] America The Beautiful National Park Pass


I don’t know what this year holds in terms of places to explore but I want to be prepared.

"Thousands of tired, nerve-shaken, over-civilized people are beginning to find out that going to the mountains is going home; that wildness is a necessity; and that mountain parks and reservations are useful not only as fountains of timber and irrigating rivers, but as fountains of life.” - John Muir

The New American Road Trip Mixtape


"It’s a story about living on the road, the search for the American Dream, and our evolving ideas of happiness and home." I recommend checking out the video trailer too.

DSPTCH Standard Camera Sling Strap


I recently got a new camera for Christmas but I’m looking for a decent strap. Made in USA and comes with a lifetime guarantee, I have a feeling this strap will work out just fine.

— Check out past Items of Want —

America's Wild


What’s left in America to call “wilderness”? It turns out that only 5% of the United States is labeled as wilderness and protected under the National Wilderness Preservation System. If you're just counting the contiguous U.S., that number drops to 2.7%.

I recently came across this information in the latest issue of National Geographic and saw a map of the country that caught my eye. The specific article [50 Years of Wilderness] is available to read online if you aren't a subscriber.

The Wilderness Act of 1964 defines wilderness as â€śan area where the earth and its community of life are untrammeled by man, where man himself is a visitor who does not remain.”

I'm not sure what that means to you but I can tell you what it means to me. This map made me realize that even though there's not that much left in America that's "wild" (if you're counting the green vs. white places on the map), I desperately want to visit, experience, or live in as many green spots as possible.

As Ansel Adams once said:
"In truth, 'Wilderness' is a state of mind and heart. Very little exists now in actuality."
Despite only 5% of wild America left, it can live on in our hearts as long as we maintain an adventurous attitude. Yeah that totally sounds cheesy as I read it back but you get the idea.

If you want to see a slightly more interactive version of the map above, click here.

Items of Want 009

Marathon Chronograph Pilot


Tritium chronograph with Swiss automatic movement. I’m drawn to the display that’s full featured without being too busy.

The Cloudspotter’s Guide


"In addition to serving as a guide to cloud types, and how they form, this book explores how the clouds above our heads have played the backdrop to the entirety of human existence in art, literature, and film."

Sam​’s Natu​ral Ceda​r and Salt Shoe Bags


Made in the US and available from Duluth Trading Co., these cedar filled reusable bags can erase nasty odors from your boots for up to 60 days. My wife would like it if I got these.

Draplin Design Co. Space Shuttle Tribute Patch


Proudly made in the U.S.A. through the DDC, this truly is the “perfect little patch to remember that majestic shuttle program.”

Pointer Brand Wallet - Brown Duck


"Hand made in Tennessee, a collaboration between Dark Designs of Jonesborough and The L. C. King Manufacturing Company.  It features simple six card slot construction and two inside pockets. 100% cotton American-made brown duck fabric."

— Check out past Items of Want —

Items of Want 008

DIY Kentucky Long Rifle Kit


There seem to be a lot of kits out there and I haven’t sorted through yet to see what sets each one apart but I think building this rifle would be a lot of fun. With its rifled barrel, it changed the battlefield during the American Revolution. If it was good enough for Daniel Boone, I’m sure it’s good enough for me.

[Acquired] ITS Multi-Purpose Container (MPC)


"100% Made in America, the ITS MPC is a deep-drawn aluminum container that’s Type III Hard Anodized and features a tight fitting lid, internal gasket for water resistance, Velcro securing straps and an internal lid lined with 3M Reflexite." Perfect for a backcountry survival kit.

Wharncliffe Pocket Knife


"A trusty pocket knife is an essential addition to a well-rounded everyday kit. Sturdy 440 stainless steel construction and timeless design ensure that this is the knife you will entrust to your son one day, and in turn pass down to your granddaughter. Dating to the early 1800s, the Wharncliffe blade design has been prized by sailors and workmen for generations. Made in the USA. "

Citizen Eco-Drive Promaster Altichron


A nice break from digital displays, this titanium made watch provides altitude and compass information all while being charged by sunlight. It looks like they’ve made a new model but I prefer the look of this older version.

Ahnu​ Potr​ero


"The men’s Potrero boot brings a little bit of the great outdoors to your everyday, offering both rugged styling and technical features for athletic comfort. Crafted from sturdy nubuck leathers, a canvas-embossed suede collar and metal hardware, this urban hiker…gives you incredible comfort and serious traction for your daily expeditions."

— Check out past Items of Want —