Living on the Edge: KnifeRights.org Continues the Fight to Rewrite Knife Laws

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As of November 1st, citizens in Oklahoma are able to carry concealed switchblade knives without having to deal with varying local restrictions. Fears that ordinary people would take to the streets and begin stabbing passersby quickly subsided and all seemed to be normal.

In a world where our daily freedoms are shrinking, it’s refreshing to find an organization that seeks to create even more freedom. KnifeRights.org is on a mission to repeal archaic, senseless knife laws on a state by state basis and they were instrumental in getting the recent legislation passed in Oklahoma.

They’ve been a dominate force in getting these types of laws repealed so ordinary citizens are capable of carrying things like automatic knives without dealing with local restrictions.

Many cities have passed local ordinances more restrictive than the state law, creating confusion and almost unavoidable entrapment for law abiding citizens traveling throughout the state. KnifeRights has helped enact Knife Law Preemption in several states, including Texas, which repeals these local ordinances and ensures that the law is equal throughout the state.

Same Old Song and Dance

Gun advocates are all too familiar with the argument of one weapon being “deadlier” than another and it’s no different in the world of knives. A knife’s opening mechanism doesn’t make it sharper or easier to wield against someone, yet many knife laws in the United States seem to be based on fear that they are.

Many people carry a knife daily and consider it to be one of the most valuable tools they have. Unfortunately, there are groups and individuals out there working toward restricting even the most simple of knives and the carrying of them.

One simply needs to look at knife laws in New York City to see how ridiculous restrictions can be. It’s a founding goal of KnifeRights to see that these laws are reexamined and overturned so that law abiding citizens can carry basic tools.

A Great Resource

legal-blade-appIn addition to fighting for additional rights, KnifeRights is a great resource for current laws as well. With their new Legal Blade app, information is available on your mobile device for the knife laws of all fifty states!

Another great section of the site offers advice on what to do if you’re arrested for a knife violation. This is especially important for those living in areas like New York City, where even having knife clipped into your pocket could land you in handcuffs.

Help the Fight

Just this year, KnifeRights has been successful in the passing of five of the ten pieces of legislation on their agenda. The remaining five will need continued support from organizations like theirs, as well as citizens voicing their opinion on the matter. If you live in a state where a piece of legislation is currently up for review, it’s important to make your voice heard!

In addition to calling or writing your state representative, consider helping the fight by joining KnifeRights.org as a member. Memberships provide them funding to continue to introduce legislation and lobby for continued rights. Even if you don’t live in state with restrictive knife laws, we still encourage you to support them as there’s no guarantee that new anti-knife legislation won’t be introduced in your state in the future. As with the NRA, the stronger the organization, the more capable they are of defending against future restrictions.

Click here to visit KnifeRights.org to find out more information on current proposed legislation and to join the fight to protect your knife rights!

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Gear Tasting 15: Precision Rifle, Holsters and Concealed Clothing

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On this episode of Gear Tasting, Bryan walks through the loadout he’ll be taking to an upcoming Rifles Only Precision Rifle class.

He also answers a few questions over coffee about different holsters he uses, clothing he prefers when carrying concealed and more on cold weather clothing including hats and gloves.

Resources

Get the Gear – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R3SFqV0hMyo
Rifles Only – http://www.riflesonly.com/
ITS 1,000 Yard Shot Article – http://itstac.tc/1QkmQOo
ITS Mammoth Sniper Article – http://itstac.tc/14FUbsS
Accurate Ordnance – http://accurateordnance.com/
Leupold Mark 4 LR – http://bit.ly/1MMbXON
ITS Range Box Article – http://itstac.tc/1Pq5NKI
1MOA Solutions Combat Operations Data Book – http://bit.ly/1OGsTww
Multitasker – http://www.multitaskertools.com/
SKD Pig Gloves – http://bit.ly/1kaQV5G
Princeton Tec Headlamp – http://amzn.to/1WiY7c3
Arc’teryx LEAF Mattock Drysock LT – http://bit.ly/1MZadYQ
Safariland Holster – http://amzn.to/1LbUazn
ITS Safariland Holster Modification Article – http://itstac.tc/1RQX2Hs
Raven Concealment – http://rcsgear.com/
ITS Smart Carry vs. Thunderwear Article – http://itstac.tc/SSe8ID
Off the Grid Concepts – https://otghex.com/
Haley Strategic INCOG – http://bit.ly/1HKdljI
Bladetech Glock 43 Holster – http://amzn.to/1HKdqUo
Liger Gun Belt – http://bit.ly/1WUfqR3
Mean Gene Leather Belt – http://www.meangeneleather.com/
S&S Precision 757 Perfomance Denim – http://bit.ly/1OGqims
Arc’teryx LEAF Naga Hoodie – http://bit.ly/1Y6KBeh
Arc’teryx LEAF Atom Jacket – http://bit.ly/1S9Im6G
Arc’teryx LEAF Alpha LT Jacket – http://bit.ly/1HKdPX5
Patagonia Down Jacket – http://bit.ly/1krv8Hz
Outdoor Research – http://www.outdoorresearch.com/
Arc’teryx LEAF Assault Glove FR – http://bit.ly/1OGqGkW
Black Diamond – http://blackdiamondequipment.com/

In each episode of Gear Tasting, Imminent Threat Solutions Editor-in-Chief Bryan Black answers your gear-related questions and shares his insight into what we’re currently evaluating at ITS HQ.

For more on the gear we review, check out our GEARCOM category here on ITS.

To have your gear related question answered on an upcoming episode, tweet us using the poundtag #GearTasting on Twitter.

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Honor, Duty, Sacrifice: Giving Thanks to Our Veterans

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Veterans Day honors those who have served our nation in the Military, whether in the past, present, or even in the future. The History of Veterans Day comes from the end of  WW1, also known as “The Great War.” While it officially ended when the Treaty of Versailles was signed on June 28, 1919, fighting ceased seven months earlier when an armistice between the Allied nations and Germany went into effect on the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month. It’s this reason that November 11, 1918 is regarded as the end of “the war to end all wars” and that each November 11th is recognized as Veterans Day.

A veteran is someone who at one point in their life, wrote a blank check payable to the United States of America for an amount up to and including their life. Regardless of personal political views, that is an honor and there are too many people in this country who no longer remember that fact.

Today, we encourage you to thank a Veteran in your life and below, we’ve highlighted our five simple things you can do to thank one.

Five Simple Ways To Thank A Veteran Today

1. Saying Thank You – Just the simple act of saying “Thank you for your service” goes a long way with most veterans. Throw in a handshake too and you’re bound to see a smile on their face. Most Veterans will tell you that they’re no different from you and wanted to be a part of something larger than themselves. While I can echo those sentiments, I’ve always been grateful to those who’ve said thank you.

2. Volunteer – Do something for the veterans in your community. Seriously, what’s an hour of your time for the sacrifices they’ve made? Check out uso.org for ways that you can help. At the least, drop off an anonymous letter at your local VA thanking a veteran; it will get to the right person. If you’re a veteran, look into veteran service organizations you can join. I joined up a few years ago with Team Rubicon and love what they’re doing and what they stand for.

3. Donate – Make a small donation today to any of the fantastic organizations out there that help veterans each and every day. Some of our favorites here at ITS are America’s Mighty Warriors, Intrepid Fallen Heroes Fund and Disabled American Veterans. As a SDVOSB (Service Disabled Veteran Owned Small Business), ITS has always been committed to raising money for these and many other organizations.

4. Pay for Lunch – One of my fondest memories while serving was actually when a complete stranger came up to a group of three of my buddies and I and paid for our lunch. We were in our Dress Blues eating at a Friday’s in the airport on our way out to San Diego. He simply walked up said “We appreciate what you guys are doing (pointing back to the table of three other men appearing to be traveling on business), this one’s on us.” Offer to pay for a veteran’s meal today, it can go a long way.

5. Never Forget – One of the biggest things you can do, which I think all veterans will agree with me on, is to make the most out of the opportunity you’ve been given. Our freedoms have been paved with the sacrifices of our soldiers and they did so for all of us to enjoy this great country; never forget that or take it for granted.

All of us here at ITS, many of us Veterans too, thank all the Veterans out there for all they’ve done for our Country! For more history on Veterans Day, click here to read a great article on va.gov

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Knot of the Week HD: Tying the Girth Hitch and the Cow Hitch

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While many think the Girth Hitch and the Cow Hitch are one in the same, on today’s Knot of the Week in HD, I’ll be explaining their subtle differences and why they’re important to recognize. The Girth Hitch is one of the simplest hitches out there, but nevertheless, very important to know and worth the refresher. Especially if you’re disputing my difference between it and the Cow Hitch.

Girth Hitch » Hitches

(Strength: 4/Security: 5/Stability: 5/Difficulty: 1) See below for what these ratings mean.

As you can see below in the Cow Hitch ratings, there’s absolutely a difference in their strength, security and stability. This has everything to do with how the hitch is loaded. With a Girth Hitch, the tension is being divided between each of what would be working ends, though when tied in a sling (or fixed loop) there’s really just a working bight, but I digress.

Cow Hitch » Hitches

(Strength: 3/Security: 2/Stability: 3/Difficulty: 2) See below for what these ratings mean.

With a Cow Hitch, the exact same hitch pattern is created, but as you’ll see in the video, it’s done so with a single line of rope. Also, picture the standing end being attached to a Cow. After wrapping the working end around the object you’re tying the “cow” onto, you now have an unsecured end and when the standing end is pulled, the hitch will slip.

I know that’s a long winded way of saying to just stick with the Girth Hitch, but I wanted to tell you the why behind it. There are much better ways of tying up an animal and we’ll get into a few of those hitches in upcoming KOTWs.

Ratings

Strength/Security/Stability/Difficulty

Each knot will be assigned a rating from 1-5 (1 representing the lowest score) based on the following four properties:

Strength – All knots will weaken the strength of  a rope, however, there are knots that are stronger than others. The scale here will reflect how strong the rope remains with the specified knot.

Security – The security scale refers to how well the knot will stay tied, and resist coming loose under a normal load.

Stability – Stability refers to how easily the knot will come untied under an abnormal load (i.e. the knot being pulled in a direction it was not intended to) A lower score here represents instability.

Difficulty – The lower the number, the easier a knot is to tie.

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Ridiculous Dialogue Illustrated No. 10

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This month’s Ridiculous Dialogue Illustrated was pulled straight from Episode 33, in which Rob shared the shameful secret behind his favorite fragrance. The worst part of his purchase isn’t dodging the teeny bopper employees or enduring the BOOTS AND PANTS AND BOOTS AND PANTS techno music, but that the box literally features a half naked man.

Ridiculous Dialogue Illustrated is a selection of some of the best moments from our Podcast, Ridiculous Dialogue. It’s a way to bring some of the inside jokes and adventures to life that we all share here at ITS. This is a monthly comic strip that we’re sure our devoted podcast listeners will relate to and love.

For more insight into this month’s strip, you can listen to Episode 33 below.

 

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Take Cover: New Desert Digital Crew Cover and Storacell Battery Holders

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Today, we’re excited to be adding some new products to the ITS Store, including a Desert Digital version of our popular ITS Crew Cover as well as injection molded Storacell Battery Holders.

Our ITS Crew Covers are made in the USA and each six-panel unstructured hat features a pre-curved and color-matched visor (top and bottom) with a comfortable moisture-wicking sweatband.

The new Storacell Battery Holders offer a great storage option that prevents your batteries from draining when contacting one another.

Desert Digital ITS Crew Cover

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Made from CORDURA NYCO 50/50 ripstop fabric, these hats are lightweight, yet extremely strong and durable. The 2″ x 3″ front loop field is die-cut with rounded edges and features an embroidered ITS logo. The rear of the hat has a die-cut loop rocker for displaying your ITS Membership Rocker Patch and two rounded .75″ x .75″ loop fields for a pair of our ITS Cat Eye Morale Patches.

Designed as a one-size-fits-all hat, the hook & loop strap closure on the back is easy to adjust and features a color-matched CORDURA covering. We’ve also removed the top button commonly found on hats so it’s comfortable to wear with hearing protection.

Click here to pick up your ITS Crew Cover!

Storacell Battery Holders

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One of the most important things to keep with your gear is batteries; whether it’s an optic, night vision device or a GPS, it’s only as good as the batteries powering it. Many people store their extras batteries in bags or pockets and don’t realize they can drain if contacting one another.

A great solution to battery storage is the injection molded Storacell Battery Holders. Available in AA, AAA and CR123, these holders are sturdy and provide reliable storage that ensures your batteries don’t come in contact with one another. Four colors are available in each size including Tuxedo Black, Military Green, Orange and a special Glow-in-the-Dark version named Moonshine. Moonshine Storacells can glow for up to 8 hours and make it extremely easy to find your batteries in the dark or inside a large bag.

Click here to purchase a Storacell Battery Holder!

 

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Merry Tristmas – Ridiculous Dialogue Episode 39

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Episode 39 – Merry Tristmas

On this episode of Ridiculous Dialogue we’re joined by Zach, the newest member of the ITS Crew, as we discuss buying tickets for the new Star Wars movie, Daylight Saving Time and certain regional accents.

There was also a lot of post-Halloween talk about what we all did during the holiday and especially how much candy we all regretted eating!

 

Ridiculous Dialogue Episode 39

Ridiculous Dialogue was created to share the banter that takes place at Imminent Threat Solutions on a daily basis. It’s us; candid, unedited and talking about everything from what movies we’re watching to the general geekiness that keeps us laughing here at ITS HQ.

While we generally keep the vibe in our articles PG rated, be warned, it may not be safe to blast over your speakers at work. We hope you enjoy the insight into ITS and who we are behind the scenes as a company; pull up a chair and tune in to Radio ITS.

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Gear Tasting 14: Yo Dawg, I Heard You Like Packs

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On this episode, Bryan answers a few Questions Over Coffee, including a rundown of his shoes and boots and what application each have. There’s also an in-depth answer to the loaded question about what pack he prefers. Hint: there’s way more than one!

Also in this episode is our first look at the Haley Strategic Flat Packs.

Resources

Salomon Speedcross – http://amzn.to/1NfE0qq
Adidas Terrex – http://amzn.to/1RyQpJC
Salomon Techamphibian – http://amzn.to/20xj87M
Arc’Teryx Acrux FL2 GTX – http://bit.ly/1RYfj5j
Arc’Teryx Acrux Review on ITS – http://itstac.tc/1GNs4j4
Lowa Renegade II Boots – http://amzn.to/1PcWq0W
Arc’Teryx Mattock Drysock – http://amzn.to/1PcWq0W
Altama Desert Boots – http://amzn.to/1Q78y3P
La Sportiva Boots – http://amzn.to/1SshtuR
Mystery Ranch – http://www.mysteryranch.com/
LBT Three Day Pack – http://lbtinc.com/1476ac.html
Goruck – http://bit.ly/1UdcDkA
Arc’Teryx Khard 30 – http://bit.ly/1NS5zZD
TSSI M9 Pack – http://bit.ly/1kcYpps
BCA Stash Sack – http://amzn.to/1MBVNr5
Haley Strategic Flat Pack – http://www.haleystrategic.com/

In each episode of Gear Tasting, Imminent Threat Solutions Editor-in-Chief Bryan Black answers your gear-related questions and shares his insight into what we’re currently evaluating at ITS HQ.

For more on the gear we review, check out our GEARCOM category here on ITS.

To have your gear related question answered on an upcoming episode, tweet us using the poundtag #GearTasting on Twitter.

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What’s in Our Headphones at ITS: Favorite Podcasts of the ITS Crew

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We’re all about Podcasts here at ITS, so much so that we created our own with Ridiculous Dialogue! There are thousands of podcasts available, covering every topic imaginable and it can be daunting if you’ve never listened to an episode. Today, we’re sharing the favorite podcasts from the ITS Crew and a bit about why they listen to each one.

Bryan Black – Editor-in-Chief

Ridiculous Dialogue

What's in Our HeadphonesIt should be no surprise that our Podcast at ITS is at the top of my list. I may be biased, but I think I laugh more when going back and listening to an episode, than I do when we’re recording it.

If you haven’t checked out RD yet, you’re missing out. It’s a look at the non-tactical side of everyone at ITS HQ, candid and laughing about everything from movies to childhood experiences. Occasionally we have guests on the show and many tell us it’s like sitting around and listening to a group of good friends shoot the sh*t. Be warned though, it’s not PG-rated.

The Nerdist

What's in Our HeadphonesI’m a self-described geek at heart and the topics that come up on Nerdist are right up my alley. It’s turned into more of an interview outlet as of late and my interest has waned a bit, but I still listen fairly often. The host, Chris Hardwick, is pretty entertaining.

I also enjoy the co-hosts, Jonah Ray and Matt Mira, who aren’t on as often as I’d like. Kelly and I had the opportunity to see a live taping of a Nerdist Podcast at Comic-Con a while back and we really loved the dynamic everyone shares in person as well. I’d highly recommend The Nerdist if you’re at all into good humor and laughs.

The Survival Podcast

What's in Our HeadphonesI’ve been listening to my good friend Jack Spirko’s show now for the better part of 6 years and have even make a few appearances myself from time to time with an interview, or as part of his TSP Expert Council. Even though I don’t like the term expert, I’m glad to share my experiences with the TSP audience by answering questions they come up with.

Before I knew anything about Jack, or had met him and his wife Dorothy, his show was a huge motivator for me to start my own business with ITS. It was about a year after starting ITS in 2009 that I heard him say he lived in Arlington, TX, which was right down the street. We all met up, had a drink and the rest is history.

While the title of Jack’s show is The Survival Podcast and he does talk quite a bit about survival, his practical approach to the topics he discusses is extremely refreshing. That and Jack has a ton of knowledge to impart and does so whether you want it or not, so enjoy the show and tell Jack that Bryan sent you.

Art of Manliness

What's in Our HeadphonesHost Brett McKay from the Art of Manliness website has an excellent interview-based Podcast that covers a wide range of topics from accomplished authors, adventurers and leaders in their respective fields.

While I promise the list of Podcasts I listen to isn’t just to plug my appearances, I’m very appreciative to have been asked on the show by Brett awhile back. He’s a very entertaining and thoughtful host that truly makes his guests feel comfortable and relaxed. You won’t regret giving the AoM Podcast a listen.

 

Kelly Black – Chief Operating Officer

Ted Radio Hour

What's in Our HeadphonesThis is a radio version of TED Talks from “the world’s most innovative minds” shared by NPR (National Public Radio) that follow a theme, so multiple TED videos may be referenced in each podcast episode.

Topics range from business to personal, from dissecting creativity to the origins of our planet. Each episode is uniquely interesting and I always come away with a broader perspective and having learned something valuable.

 

Seamwork Radio

What's in Our HeadphonesThis is a new podcast from the publisher of Collette Patterns and Seamwork Magazine with just a few episodes out so far. The stories are from sewists who share why they sew, what inspires them and how producing their own garments has really been life changing. I’ve followed Collette Patterns and the mastermind behind it Sarai Mitnick for years as I’ve dreamed of making time for sewing my own garments.

Even though I still haven’t taken that leap into stitching up tailored outfits I glean a ton of creative inspiration from Sarai, her blog, books and her pattern releases. Not only are her online resources always professionally produced and awe-inspiring, but her podcast rivals any major production I’ve listened to.

The Moth Podcast

What's in Our HeadphonesI’ve been a Moth listener for years and this is still one of my all-time faves. It’s an outlet dedicated to the art of story telling and the stories are real, shared by the people who’ve experienced them.

They’re sometimes motivational and sometimes painful to hear, but isn’t that what real life is all about? I’m always intrigued that most of the story tellers who participate are writers, so hearing how they put their experiences together in a measured way that provides a beginning, a middle and an end is almost like listening to mini audio books.

 Freakonomics Radio

What's in Our HeadphonesThis is a show hosted by the authors of the Freakonomics books, Stephen J. Dubner and Steve Levitt. Each episode feels like being part of a conversation with an economic twist on topics about life, social issues or society in general.

Humor is almost always included and this show always gets me thinking about whatever the topic is from a different perspective, or at least gets me thinking about something new.

 

Yarniacs Podcast and 2KnitLitChicks

What's in Our HeadphonesMy podcast repertoire wouldn’t be complete without some crafty and fiber related shows. For my knitting and crochet fix I catch every episode of The Yarniacs Podcast and the 2KnitLitChicks.

Both of these podcasts feature new episodes every two weeks and they both have two hosts, so the banter between them is lively, educational and inspiring. It also helps that both shows talk about yarn, tools, tips and tricks to help keep me on my stitchy toes.

 

Rob Henderson – Community Manager

StartUp

What's in Our HeadphonesThe StartUp podcast is a great look into the world of startup companies, as Alex Bloomberg chronicles leaving NPR to start his own Podcast network. He offers insight into what it really takes to start a media company and the many pitfalls that new companies fall into.

One of the best things about the show is that you as the listener get to see tangible results as the podcast moves forward. Alex attempts to secure funding for the company, while also attempting to come up with a name and solid plan for their growth. It’s a developing podcast that doesn’t seem to have a set direction and that’s what keeps it so interesting.

Their second season focused on another startup company in the world of online dating. While it was definitely interesting, I found myself craving more information about how Gimlet was doing and what was going on at their HQ.

Reply All

What's in Our HeadphonesThe first show created by Gimlet Media after StartUp, Reply All is a show about the Internet. The hosts, PJ and Alex, find a different story each week that revolves around the Internet. From the man that created the first pop-up advertisement to their “Email Debt Forgiveness Day” the show reveals just how integral the Internet has become to us and how connected it allows us to be.

I’ve really enjoyed how the show has played with different tones throughout their run, one episode will be cheesy or joking and the next will be a serious think-piece that allows the listener to really relate with the character’s story. This is a podcast that I find myself mashing the refresh button on each week, impatiently waiting for the newest episode to drop.

This American Life

What's in Our HeadphonesGrowing up, my parents would always listen to NPR on any kind of drive. I loved the quiet narration and the subtle mystery behind the stories that were told. One of my favorite shows to listen to was This American Life and even now as an adult, I find myself drawn to the show each week.

This American Life doesn’t really have a central topic, instead, each episode usually features multiple stories around a central theme, dubbed “Acts.” Sometimes, those stories are huge and dramatic, but occasionally they’ll have lighthearted and even humorous themes.

The host, Ira Glass, has a voice that was destined for the radio and his narration helps glue the different stories together to keep you interested throughout the entire program.

This is Only a Test

What's in Our HeadphonesI’m a bit of a tech nerd and I constantly find myself drawn to websites that feature reviews and breakdowns of the latest and greatest in technology. One of my favorite resources is Tested.com and I was overjoyed to find out that the site owners, Will Smith and Norman Chan, had a weekly podcast. This is Only a Test focuses on what’s new in technology as well as what Will and Norm have been testing.

Each episode varies from 1.5 – 2.5 hours so this is great show for long drives or longer listening periods. Despite the long run time, I never find myself getting bored or feeling like the show is running too slow. Most episodes feature one or multiple guests and it’s always refreshing to hear new opinions on different technology.

This show has also helped to keep me up to date on things that I normally wouldn’t follow, including Virtual Reality and Quadcopter development. Each time I hear about new technology, I find myself eager to hear what Will and Norm think about it.

Still Untitled: The Adam Savage Project

What's in Our HeadphonesMythbusters is one of my favorite shows on TV and I love watching the process behind the work they do. I’m always particularly interested in the work of Adam Savage and found myself looking for more content he’d been involved with. In addition to several talks he’d given, I found that he’d started a podcast with Will and Norm from Tested!

Each week, Will, Adam and Norm discuss different topics that usually revolve around the processes Adam uses to build and design everything from props to storage items. Adam offers great insight into his processes and one of the things you discover is that someone with a busy schedule like his has a purpose for almost everything he does. It’s always interesting to me to see how other people work and I enjoy hearing different ideas about workshop efficiency and even normal life efficiency.

With Mythbusters announcing their final season, I’m hoping that Adam will have even more time to work with the guys from Tested to create more content. The videos they’ve produced on the site so far have all been wonderful and Still Untitled is a great place to hear more behind the scenes from these videos.

Amanda Millard – Community Support

Stuff you Missed in History Class

What's in Our HeadphonesThis is a great podcast for history lovers! One recent episode I listened to was about Olive Oatman, whose family was attacked by Indians in 1851 when traveling in Arizona. During this ordeal, Olive was taken hostage by her attackers and lived with Indian tribes for five years before she was ransomed by the U.S. Government. After returning to life as a civilian, Olive wrote a couple of different stories about what happened and how she was treated while she lived with the natives.

Another great episode was The Night Witches. These women were an all-female bombing regiment in the Soviet Air force who dropped 23,000 tons of bombs on the German Forces during World War II. These courageous women went above and beyond to do their part in the war effort. Each episode offers an in-depth look on a different part of history and I’m always learning new things from this show.

Stuff You Should Know

What's in Our HeadphonesStuff you Should Know is an amazing podcast that covers, well, everything. A recent episode I listened to was “How Cult Deprogramming Worked.” It was an interesting discussion on how people were deprogrammed, so to speak, after being brain washed.

The humor that Josh and Chuck share, along with their willingness to take on tough subjects, always entertains me. Show topics range from gory subjects like death and dying to interesting need-to-know subjects like how passports work.

 Serial

What's in Our HeadphonesThis show had an amazing first season and the second season should be released late in 2015. The first season delves into the true story of a murder that was committed in Baltimore in 1999. The episodes were released weekly and hosted by Sarah Koenig, who I felt did a fantastic job with the narration of each episode as well as the overall story.

Adnan Syed was a regular high school student with normal teenage secrets, crushes, papers and friends, who is convicted for the murder of ex girlfriend Hae Min Lee. The conviction comes down to a few specific details such as Adnan not being able to remember exactly where he was for 20 minutes on an ordinary day six weeks before.

It’s hard enough for me to remember what I did yesterday, much less 6 weeks before and this was before social media, Facebook/Twitter/Instagram updates, texts and smart phones to help. This true story taught me a lot about legal proceedings and how easy it could be to incriminate yourself just by answering seemingly unimportant questions while trying to help. Listen to the first episode and you’ll be hooked and through the whole season in a week.

Stuff Mom Never Told You

What's in Our HeadphonesThis wonderful podcast is geared around all things female ranging from women in history, health, literature and sociology.

The hosts’ antics and jovial perspective make dull and ordinary topics fun and interesting. I’ve found the episodes to be educational, entertaining and very useful for learning about all things women related.

 

 

 

What’s in your headphones? Leave us a comment and let us know your favorite podcasts and other things to listen to.

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Knot of the Week HD: Tying the Hangman’s Noose and Other Variations

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Before you jump to conclusions about the legitimacy of the Hangman’s Noose, I’d like to start this week’s Knot of the Week HD by addressing that line of thought up front. Was the Hangman’s Noose designed for execution? Yes, it was also called Jack Ketch’s knot, named for the seventeenth-century executioner from England employed by King Charles II. This doesn’t mean that this knot should be avoided because of its history, just that we’re not advocating it here for it’s namesake.

The Hangman’s Noose was utilized for executions because it was extremely effective in withstanding heavy shock-loading to a rope when tied. There are many different applications for the noose, including one end of a tie-down in a truck, or as an easier alternative to some fishing knots. The benefit of the Hangman’s Noose is that it’s a continuously-tightening knot, so rather than use a Bowline or Taught-Line Hitch, which are a fixed-loop and adjustable-loop respectively, using the Hangman’s noose would ensure any pull on the loaded end would only serve to make the connection stronger.

Hangman’s Noose » Loops

(Strength: 5/Security: 5/Stability: 4/Difficulty: 3) See below for what these ratings mean.

I’ve also tied a standard Noose in the video to demonstrate the weaker alternative to the Hangman’s Noose, when comparing ratings, the standard Noose only ranks a “2” on strength and security. It’s extremely easy to come untied and I don’t recommend it as much of an alternative at all. More so for small line and light loads.

Ratings

Strength/Security/Stability/Difficulty

Each knot will be assigned a rating from 1-5 (1 representing the lowest score) based on the following four properties:

Strength – All knots will weaken the strength of  a rope, however, there are knots that are stronger than others. The scale here will reflect how strong the rope remains with the specified knot.

Security – The security scale refers to how well the knot will stay tied, and resist coming loose under a normal load.

Stability – Stability refers to how easily the knot will come untied under an abnormal load (i.e. the knot being pulled in a direction it was not intended to) A lower score here represents instability.

Difficulty – The lower the number, the easier a knot is to tie.

 

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