Today we’re joined by our good friend Caleb Causey of Lone Star Medics, who stopped by ITS HQ recently to film the video below on some best practices for preparing, storing and applying Tourniquets. The video demonstrates application of a Tourniquet to an arm and a leg and goes into some different methods for preparing a tourniquet, such as our DIY flat-fold method we’ve demonstrated previously on ITS.
Human conflict and war affect people in many ways, in turn, civilians, soldiers and environments are often permanently scarred. The healing and rebuilding of communities can be a slow and painful process that requires compassionate people, organizations and companies around the world who want to see these people prosper and help them to rebuild.
Combat Flip Flops is one of these companies. We’ve highlighted before that CFF is an American company formed by two Army Rangers who are very familiar with the physical state a region can be left in after war. I recently had the pleasure of visiting with Griff, one of the owners and founders of Combat Flip Flops, who reiterated that they’re committed to “building something worth talking about.” They’re doing this by helping communities in war torn areas find a means to earn a living through peaceful commerce.
For anyone not familiar with CFF, they began their “Business, not Bullets” campaign by manufacturing flip flops in Afghanistan after seeing the positive effects that thriving small businesses were having on the Afghan community. “The money pumped into the economy got Afghanis to put down their guns, learn a trade, and work to improve their local environment.” Production was brought back to the United States out of necessity, but additional opportunities for commerce have opened up to help not only the communities in Afghanistan, but also now in Laos by helping to clean up land mines.
During the Vietnam War the U.S. dropped hundreds of millions of cluster bombs on Laos in an effort to prohibit enemy movement along the Ho Chi Minh Trail. Cluster munitions have a very high failure rate, which means that the bombs didn’t explode upon impact and still have the potential to detonate if moved or disturbed. Up to 85 million of these cluster bombs dropped on Laos failed to detonate when they were dropped, leaving unexploded ordnance (UXO) scattered throughout the country.
More than 50,000 people have been injured or killed because of UXO since the 1960’s. A large number of the people who’ve been immediately impacted by the explosions are children, simply because of their curious nature when they find the UXO on the ground. Other injuries and deaths have been caused by attempts to collect the metal from the bombs to be sold as scrap.
Clean up efforts are underway thanks to an organization known as MAG America. Mine Action Group (MAG) focuses on “development by clearing land in affected areas to open access to agriculture, water, schools, hospitals, and roads. By listening to and collaborating with local communities, MAG concentrates on clearing areas that have the largest humanitarian impact, enabling local populations to propel themselves to economic growth.”
The effort doesn’t stop there. Elizabeth Suda, founder of Article 22 in New York, works with Laotian artisans to transform UXO into jewelry for peace. The aluminum from the bombs is fired in a kiln with additional metal from war scrap, so that any toxins are completely burned off. The metal is then hand-cast into jewelry.
These handmade pieces of jewelry from UXO in Laos not only provide jobs to the artisans making the jewelry, but with the sale of each piece, a donation is made to help clear more land from mines. This allows Americans to “buy back the bombs,” so to speak.
Combat Flip Flops has joined the cause for clearing the land in Laos and promoting additional commerce for the people there, by adding the Peacemaker Coin Wrap and the Peacemaker Bangle to their globally conscious line of products.
The Peacemaker Coin Wrap is made of UXO, war scrap and lambskin. The lightweight metal disc features the Combat Flip Flops logo and the inscription “Dropped and Made in Laos” to remind the wearer of the history of what’s being worn. The lambskin leather wrap ties around the wrist making it completely adjustable to fit anyone.
I’ve been wearing this bracelet every day for about three weeks. I typically wear a silver cuff on my right wrist, but I was intrigued by the unique look of the Coin Wrap and wanted to see if it allowed more air flow through to my wrist than a regular metal bracelet does during the hotter months of the year.
I’ll admit that when I first put on the Peacemaker Coin Wrap, I fumbled with the leather tie for a few minutes. Once I got the hang of tying a one-handed square knot, putting the bracelet on became fairly simple. The coin wrap is so light weight I hardly feel it, it’s very comfortable and the leather is so soft against my skin. It ‘s really a great accessory for summer because of how much it lets my skin breathe.
I’m a big proponent for spending money on products that help others when I can. I buy from independent artisans and local businesses as often as possible, which sometimes translates into spending a few more bucks in order to support a local economy or a cause. Knowing the history of the UXO, acknowledging the combined efforts of the companies and people of Laos to recover and repurpose their land, turning something that was once a source of devastation into job creation and a creative outlet, makes the price tag of $50 much less than the cost of what happened to make this bracelet possible.
The Peacemaker Bangle is made completely from UXO and war scrap. I really like the Peacemaker Bangle for a couple of reasons. Out of all the bangle style bracelets I own, this is by far the most comfortable one. I actually slept with it a few nights and didn’t notice it at all. It also has some writing on the outside, which gives it a more casual look and illustrates the idea behind why a person would support buying this bracelet.
The finish has a worn and brushed look which is nice because you don’t have to be concerned with denting or scratching it. While it may be rough in appearance, it’s quite smooth and offers a very versatile look. It can be easily be worn by itself or with other bracelets through layering. I wouldn’t wear it to a more dressy event but found that I could wear it with just about anything else.
If you were to judge this bangle by looks alone, it probably isn’t worth the $50 price tag. In fact, that’s more than I typically pay for a bracelet, but I’m also known to be quite the bargain shopper. What you have to realize is that the money going to a good cause. This bracelet is made from a melted-down unexploded bomb dropped during the Vietnam War. When purchased, the money not only goes to the person who handmade the bangle but also to a cleanup effort of unexploded bombs dropped on Laos. Areas around schools, homes and playgrounds are being cleared of this unexploded ordnance, which in return creates jobs and provides safety. These are both ideals that I can get behind.
Because of its versatility, comfort and the cause that it stands for, I would certainly recommend this bangle to others. It would also make an excellent gift, especially for those that like bracelets that are casual but stylish.
Be sure to check out the Peacemaker jewelry line offered by Combat Flip Flops for thoughtful, globally conscious gifts or personal accessory purchases. You’re not only helping support an American company, you’re supporting humanity.
While we all love the fun of an excessive representation about American patriotism, the culture we live in today is interesting to say the least. Our English language continues to be one of the hardest in the world to learn due to its ever changing nature and the Internet surely hasn’t made it any easier. An example of this is how so many things have become abbreviated and technology companies are popping up left and right with names that are missing letters to help them stand out. Flickr, Tumblr, Rdio, the list goes on.
These abbreviations have even trickled down into how we spell America in internet lingo and memes. I’m not questioning anyone’s American patriotism and would rather see ‘Merica (or even ‘Murica) than nothing at all, but I still cringe when I see America abbreviated like that.
I have to admit some of those memes are hilarious, but I can’t help seeing it as a shortcut, or a trendy way of being patriotic. I honestly don’t know the origin of the abbreviation, maybe as a way to save characters in a hashtag like #merica?
Patriotism, at least to me, isn’t a trend. It’s not something I take lightly, or something I find myself needing shortcuts to express.
America is about freedom, freedom for everyone to speak their mind no matter what the topic. Just as it’s everyone’s right to abbreviate America, its also my right to question it.
I might be in the minority, but I just don’t fully understand why society has deemed the abbreviation of America to ‘Merica as acceptable. Maybe I just need more coffee this morning.
Don’t even get me started on the “bro, do you even…”
Around 4000 B.C., ancient Eqyptians developed the pin/tumbler lock and as far as we know, this was the earliest use of a mechanical lock. Though it’s a different design than what we’re used to today and was also created entirely from wood, it’s considered to be the precursor of all modern pin/tumbler style locks.
Understanding how locks work is essential to understanding how to pick them. We teach lock picking on ITS as a useful skill-set, not to advocate illegal methods of entry. We do so to illustrate the “delusion of security” and to help you realize how unsafe most locks are. Armed with this knowledge, you can better equip your home with upgraded locks and countermeasures to keep your family safe. Knowing this skill-set and having the right tools on hand, can also potentially save you from hiring a locksmith, or even the life of a loved one.
Gawker recently put together a great little infographic showcasing the history of the lock and key.
Head over to their site and check it out in its entirety:
Lock sport is an honest, ethical, and legitimate hobby. Unfortunately, the whole world hasn’t figured that out yet (though we’re working on it!). Because the lay person has a tendency to perceive what we do as somehow nefarious, it is extra important that we commit to following a strict code of ethics. For this reason, the above credo is non-negotiable in the lock sport community. Lockpicking should never, ever be used for illegal or even questionable purposes. Please do not misuse this information. We assume no responsibility for your actions, and in no way condone immoral activity. Help keep locksport fun for all by following strictly the one rule.
“You may only pick locks you own or those you have been given explicit permission to pick.”
Egyptian lock photo © Smith College History of Science
Our second episode kicks off this week with some more stories of our youth, including our first cars, childhood shenanigans, toys that got away, awkward church stories and even money schemes as a kid.
Episode 2 features Bryan, Kelly, Mike, Rob, Nick and Matt. You’ll also hear from Lang in future episodes, along with some other guests that will make an appearance. Let us know what you think in the comments below. We appreciate your continued support and hope you enjoy the continued look into the day-to-day banter here at ITS.
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.
Along with the Performance Footwear Launch that ITS was invited to by Arc’teryx LEAF, I’ve also spent the past few days in Chamonix, France getting to truly know Arc’teryx as a company and understanding their values, vision and why they’ve become one of the most innovative outdoor companies around.
You may be wondering why we were invited all the way out to France to learn more about an outdoor brand headquartered in Canada, so I hope that this article will explain how the visit allowed me to truly see the whole picture of Arc’teryx.
During this all-encompassing trip, I witnessed a brand new category for the Arc’teryx being unveiled, learned about the intricate details that go into all the products they create, saw how the company works with all varieties of end-users and just how much these relationships mean to them, as well as getting hands-on with the latest Arc’teryx LEAF (Law Enforcement & Armed Forces) products to evaluate them for myself in the environments they were designed for.
While the LEAF division is unique and innovative in its own right, Arc’teryx at its core is an outdoor company founded on design, craftsmanship and performance. While these three pillars aren’t necessarily game changing on their own, it’s how Arc’teryx applies these into everything they do that differentiates them from their peers.
While the aforementioned pillars make up the foundation of Arc’teryx, they’re first and foremost a design house. With functional and minimalist product designs that often start as personal mandates from employees or end-user requirements, their team stays engaged, motivated and on the leading edge of innovation.
Headquartered in Vancouver, BC and being 15 minutes from the backcountry certainly helps Arc’teryx to provide a think tank in close proximity to their employee’s playground of choice, many of whom are end-users themselves.
Fostering their employee’s product ideas that come about from this is yet another way that Arc’teryx has moved design forward and stayed human-centric. Most of their products start off as these personal mandates, which can be a simple realization that if they only had “this,” then their experience would be improved. These mandates can also potentially benefit all those that share their enthusiasm in the outdoor world as well.
Here’s a look at the history of Arc’teryx and their innovation:
Arc’teryx innovation is much more than great ideas though, they still need a supportive and skilled team to take a great concept and turn it into reality. All this while ensuring they understand their customers needs at the same time.
Surrounding themselves with people that are passionate about what they’re doing is paramount to the ideology at Arc’teryx. They use the highest standards of construction and the most advanced materials available to create their products.
If those advanced materials don’t exist for a project, they create them. In fact, they even employ an in-house machinist staff to create the machines needed to produce the products before they go into manufacturing. I’ve learned a lot about material construction over the past week and have really “seen” the difference under a microscope.
GORE-TEX products not only provide waterproofing of garments, but also allow you to breathe as well. In typical construction there’s three layers to contend with. The face fabric, GORE-TEX membrane and the backer fabric. The role of the face fabric is to protect the GORE-TEX membrane and allow it to do its job. If the threads of this face fabric “float,” or even become broken, it can compromise the integrity of the piece and allow it to “wet out,” exposing the GORE-TEX membrane. If water collects on the surface, the GORE-TEX can’t do its job to allow moisture escape.
The innovation of Arc’teryx face fabrics are what set them apart from competitors who rely solely on DWR finishing treatments to keep their face fabrics from wetting out. Arc’teryx creates face fabrics that can handle velcro being scratched against them without breaking fibers. We had the chance to observe the before and after with a gamut of fabrics under a small USB-powered microscope.
A good analogy is to think of face fabrics like the moat to the castle. The backing fabric is also just as important, as it prevents contamination of the membrane from the body side.
Breathability is paramount, which is the evaporation of moisture that passes through the garment. An effective layering system must stop water from entering and allow moisture to escape. Your body is its own micro-climate that’s trying to cool you through evaporation and you have to let that moisture escape. If not, condensation can build up and cause cold, wet and miserable conditions.
So how does all this great innovation and craftsmanship tie together? I feel that it’s best summed up with the mission statement of Arc’teryx LEAF: “Products that last longer, work better, have the best value and keep you safe in the elements.” Basically when you’re not cold, wet and miserable it allows you to better focus on the task at hand.
Arc’teryx creates technical products that break down the boundary between you and the elements. Before I get into how I witnessed this in action wearing the latest and greatest from Arc’teryx LEAF, I’d like to talk more about the reason I went halfway across the world to see this for myself.
Each year, Arc’teryx hosts their Alpine Academy in Chamonix, France. It’s a chance for people of all different levels to get training in clinics like these below:
To see what Arc’teryx has brought to Chamonix, the alpine mountaineering capital of the world, is impressive to say the least. Not only are they helping to teach others in some of the most beautiful and challenging environments around, they’re also putting their products to the test for all to see. There’s nowhere more extreme for the kind of activities that Arc’teryx develops products for. Even if you don’t own their products, the Alpine Academy offers the opportunity to demo their gear and decide for yourself if it’s worth it.
That’s the first thing I usually hear from people when we get on the subject of Arc’teryx clothing. “It’s too expensive.” I completely understand where they’re coming from, but the real question is what’s quality worth to you? What’s a product from a company that’s leading the charge in innovation and development in every category they enter worth? This is of course up to the individual consumer and you might think me biased, but if our team at ITS didn’t already have experience in and believe in Arc’teryx products, I wouldn’t be writing my experiences here to share with you.
I already thought highly of Arc’teryx products and have seen over and over again how well they work and handle everything I’ve thrown at them, but after everything I’ve experienced that I’ll share in the remainder of this article, I won’t think twice about purchasing anything again, provided I can afford it. I’m being truthful too when I say that I’ve been there looking at prices online and let that be my reason for looking elsewhere. “Buy once, cry once.” It’s something my grandfather told me a long time ago and I’ve always remembered it.
In the beginning, Arc’teryx LEAF was merely taking products from the outdoor side of the house and giving them a new colorway for Law Enforcement and Armed Forces. Now with their ability to produce each new piece from the ground up, LEAF is seen as an advanced development department for Arc’teryx as a whole.
Along with the ILBE project mentioned earlier for the US Military, the Arc’teryx Knee Caps were the first product to get adopted. Another example is the H-150 LEAF Riggers Belt, which came from military guys taking the R-350 Rappelling Harness and chopping off the leg loops to use it as a Rigger’s Belt.
In Chamonix, we had the opportunity to test out some of the latest to come out of Arc’teryx LEAF. Being summer, temperatures in town ranged anywhere from sunny and 70 to rainy and chilly. Up in the mountains at elevation was a completely different story.
Our first adventure took us to the top of the 12,602 ft. Aiguille du Midi via cable car and offered a 360 degree view of the French, Swiss and Italian Alps. Mont Blanc was incredible to see with my own eyes and a peak that’s on my bucket list to summit one of these days.
We were guided by two Commanders of the French CNISAG (Center National Instruction Ski Alpinism Gendarmerie). This unit is in charge of training the PGHM (Peloton de Gendarmerie de Haute Montagne) or high mountain rescue unit of the Gendarmerie (French Military). Basically, when people get into trouble on the mountains of Chamonix, these guys come to the rescue. They’re also one of the busiest mountain rescue groups in the world and have had over 7,000 rescues in the last seven years.
Our next stop after the the Aiguille du Midi was a train ride to the Mer de Glace (Sea of Ice) for a Glacier Hike. The Mer de Glace is the longest glacier in France and is located on the northern slopes of Mont Blanc. It stretches roughly 4 miles long and 660 feet deep.
During our hike, again led by our PGHM guides, we encountered everything from negotiating large granite formations, to utilizing crampons and ice axes to traverse large ice walls. The views were spectacular and the temperature differences allowed me to really get a chance to put some key pieces of the Arc’teryx LEAF line to the test.
Starting out, I was in a half-zip wool blend long-sleeve top and LEAF Gen 2 Combat Pants held up by a LEAF H-150 Riggers Belt. I progressively built onto the clothing by first adding a LEAF Atom LT Hoody as it got colder, to eventually layering over that with a LEAF Alpha LT Gen 2 Jacket when the rain rolled in.
I found the Arc’teryx clothing regulated my internal temperature as advertised, keeping me dry at my core and pushing my perspiration through the Atom LT Hoody and eventually out the Alpha LT. Despite the cold of being right on the ice, I was definitely working up a sweat with our movement.
Additionally, my equipment and layers were packed inside a LEAF Khard 30 pack, which I felt did a good job of providing a stable platform to work out of. These initial impressions of the equipment I utilized will also be followed by a more formal review.
The next day after our glacier hike, we had another unique opportunity to sit down with our new PGHM friends to learn about how Arc’teryx has been able to build their relationship with this important organization by providing them with SMU (Special Make-up) product development.
A new Patrol/Rescue Vest has been in development recently that will allow them to have their gear on them and not have to carry around a separate pack. Currently they carry a pack that could potentially become a dangerous problem by getting tangled up while they’re being lowered out of their rescue helicopters on the winch.
The vest is still in the prototype phase and getting feedback from the field. It features a radio pouch with ability to change frequency without removing it from the pouch. It’s also compatible with wearing a harness. The key to the system is eliminating a separate rope throw bag that holds 20 meters of rope for rescue. With the vest, this bag is now integrated into the back of the vest and can still be removed to throw it if necessary.
While the gear is the most visible aspect of the Arc’teryx relationship with the PGHM, it’s so much more than that. It allows Arc’teryx to work with a top tier rescue group to develop products that help them to do their job better and continue to innovate. On the PGHM side, it allows them to continue to drive the safety of their organization forward and if possible, give these new products the name of someone in their organization that’s been lost during a rescue attempt.
One of our PGHM guides, Captain Olivier Fernandez summed it up amazingly and what follows is my interpretation of his summary:
The spirit of the rescuer is not about being the best. The PGHM rescuers are only human and they do a job that they love. It’s not a job in the traditional sense, but a dedication to a passion for helping their fellow man. Partnerships like this with Arc’teryx help them to be better in their work and allow them to go home to their families at night. They feel rescuers in every country share this same spirit and working for the man next to them.
They don’t see partnerships like this one with Arc’teryx as commercial relationship, but as friends working together to build products to help them do their jobs better and drive the safety of their organization forward for the future. If they can also use this as an opportunity to name the equipment created after a friend they’ve lost in the line of duty, even better. This exact naming convention was used during the development of the TSL Rescue stretcher named after Franco Garda, an Italian guide lost in the line of duty.This is about everyone at the PGHM and the goal is to keep them safer in the line of duty.
To see all these elements of Arc’teryx come together on this trip was truly impressive. They’re doing great things at Arc’teryx and making a real difference to those around them.
They’re creating purpose that matters from their pillars of design, craftsmanship and performance each and every day. Every person I’ve had the pleasure of meeting at Arc’teryx has shared the same passion; helping their fellow man and driving innovation.
A huge thank you to Marc Elbaz at Arc’teryx LEAF and Chris Denny at Denny, Ink. for this opportunity; Martijn Blanes and James Bronson at Arc’teryx, Capitaine Olivier Fernandez and Capitaine Olivier Renard of the PGHM for their friendship; my peers Eric Graves of Soldier Systems Daily, Rob Curtis of Military Times and Gear Scout, David Reeder of RECOIL Magazine and Chris Mudgett of Guns & Ammo, here’s to the Wolfpack!
Images without ITS watermark shot by Hansi Heckmair
The Cycle of Behavior Learning Tool describes processes that the body/mind undergoes creating a deeper understanding of how you think, make decisions, absorb information and manipulate yourself towards a set goal.
Important Notes: All of this (C.o.B.) happens in nano-seconds. All fights are dangerous. But you have to give yourself permission to engage and win, or you’ve lost before the whole thing starts. The most important thing that I want you to recognize about the C.o.B. is how each step takes place in a part of your brain. Remember, the mind navigates the body. There is nothing that you have to do other than sit in your chair, think about this and be honest with yourself. Also, learn to evaluate stimulus/situation in advance. This mindset will spare you a lot of trouble if you do a little research.
In the end, most situations are easily avoided with the right attitude, awareness and advance analysis. Do not neglect the power of the mind. Your mind can be your ally or your most formidable opponent. The mental side of combat is so vast and powerful that it quite literally determines your next move. The author Dan Millman wrote,
When faced with just one opponent and you oppose yourself… you’re outnumbered.
Remember, if the scenario is a real fight – you don’t “win” a real fight, you survive one. The scenario can be anything from a jiu jitsu tournament to being followed home, to waking up with a knife next to your throat. The number one place to start any type of research or programming is to define the scenario. Get as black and white as possible and move on to the next phase. Remember, the more specific your definition, the more articulate and scientific you approach something, the faster you’re going to achieve the results you want.
If the above scenario is that you’re followed home, what’s your motivation to stop and turn around? Most people visualize losing. The predator visualizes winning. You’re a perfect match. Don’t be that person! Motivation is huge. You will not do anything (it’s my feeling) if you have a negative expectation about the outcome. What we need to do is put together as many factors as possible, so that we can be as motivated as we can be in the event.
No fighter goes into a prize fight thinking they’re going to lose. But when they step into the ring, you notice their body language. Body language is 60% of communication. Even when the fighter has the mantra, the strategy, the do’s and don’ts (going into the fight), it’s all cerebral/psychological. The biggest thing is really this:
If, even at the cellular level, somewhere in your unconscious mind, you have a negative perception of the outcome – it will de-motivate you!
Howard Gardner, the famous researcher estimated that, “80% of our motivations are derived from our expectations.” If you expect pain, discomfort or death, how motivated are you going to be to take care of it? Remember that starting off positive is every bit as important as actually starting.
What influences, inspires our expectations is how and what we visualize. Some people don’t think they visualize. They think it’s some special technique. Let me lay it out for you – we visualize. The trick, if you want to call it that, is to consistently visualize the positive.
Beliefs are something that you hold to be true. If we are told things like: “You’re small. You’re weak. You’ll never overpower someone bigger. Avoid fights at all costs,”… If someone parented that into you, that will be a hindrance to you at some level.
Belief is just a belief, it is not necessarily a fact.
Fear creates doubt, which unchecked, turns into anxiety. This changes everything! Where does it come from? To a large extent, it comes from how/what our mind associates information (symbols, icons, something we relate to). It’s in seeing the “Big, bad wolf” as the big, bad wolf.
As a martial artist I had this intense fear of the black and brown belts. You put that up on the proverbial pedestal and it would totally change your performance.
F.E.A.R. management skills are very important because something is convincing us to feel a particular way about something. We have three acronyms: False Expectations Appearing Real (internal stimuli that distracts us) and False Evidence Appearing Real (external stimuli that distracts us) and Failure Expected Action Required (trigger to do something!).
Let me give you an example – You’re driving over a hill (you haven’t seen the cop yet), but as you come to the top you see the police lights. Someone else, however, had been pulled over. Once you saw the lights, you immediately slowed down. Three seconds later your chest is beating hard – like you’ve been climbing stairs for 3 minutes but you’ve barely moved a muscle. The false expectation was that visualizing in your mind the consequences (if the cop lights had been for you). The false evidence was everything from: the cop car, lights, possibly missing your appointment or that you’re going to be late, etc. It’s not… it wasn’t true, but the situation gave you that fear spike all the same. Don’t imbue someone or something with traits unproven/unfounded.
Cus D’Amato, a famous boxing coach said,
The difference between the hero and the coward is what they do with their fear.
The next time you feel it – fight it. Challenge your fear. Attack your fear. Do not fear fear. We all feel it. Fight your fear first then fight your physical foe. This is one of the true ways of growth.
CHALLENGE or THREATENED DOOR
The Challenge or Threatened Door comes up when you’ve identified yourself as being in the FEAR LOOP; something takes you into a dark place and what you have is a negative expectation – obviously being fed by a negative visualization. If you have time to assess it, you find that your negative beliefs, influences from a negative neuro-association is all creating false expectation/evidence. The only way out of it is this:
The “sure footing” that you’re looking for under duress in a fight is a plan. Plan is everything. You’ve got to have them and know them in advance. For example, in a self-defense situation your goal would be getting to safety (where do I need to be?), your action would be to fight/move (must have a plan & review that plan) and your result would be to achieve safety. The Plan needs to be specific. Do I take control, lie, feign compliance, etc? Re-view (the plan) as in “see again.” Run through this loop in your mind and make your decision.
No one deserves to be a victim, but many street tragedies result from “planning for failure through failure to plan.”
In fights you will sometimes hear a coach/trainer say, “Just throw more jabs” or “Just take him down and the round is yours.” Well, there is a step in between that and our decision for action – and that is our past-present-future fears. For example, it may run through the fighter’s mind, “Last time I did this, THIS happened.” Keep in the positive. As a coach/trainer, never motivate through a negative. People are not robots. They are their own bodies making choices based on ability, motivations – their own Cycle of Behavior.
Editor-in-Chief’s Note: Tony Blauer is a world renowned combatives instructor and the developer of the SPEAR System. His philosophy and mission has remained constant since 1979, always searching for a better way. Not trying to perpetuate a style; instead to educate an international community on the importance of psychology, fear management and behaviorally sound tactics.
His company, Blauer Tactical Systems (BTS) along with his Personal Defense Readiness (PDR) team continues to research and evolve personal and professional safety training and products. Tony has also recently partnered with CrossFit to develop CrossFit Defense, promoting the parallels between the CrossFit philosophy and the SPEAR System.
ITS has spent the last few days in Chamonix, France with our peers attending the worldwide launch of the Arc’teryx Technical Performance Footwear line. We were given the opportunity to not only get hands on with the new Arc’teryx footwear, but talk one-on-one with the designers and development team that made it all happen.
Footwear is a whole new category for the Canadian based company and one that’s four years in the making. From what we’ve seen here, these new Arc’teryx shoes represent a truly innovative shift in performance footwear.
What makes this Arc’teryx Technical Performance Footwear line unique is the out-of-the-box thinking in the way footwear is manufactured. Lets first break down the Arc’teryx Adaptive Fit technology found in the flagship models of the Alpha2 FL and Bora2, which feature a removable “bootie”. It’s in this that we start looking at all the potential this new design unlocks.
The inner bootie is a full-stretchable and removable Gore-Tex liner that not only provides a waterproof surface, but a breathable one as well. The breathability comes from the micro air-space created between the shell and liner which acts as a conduit for air exchange and moisture dispersion.
It’s important to note here that there are models of this new footwear that still retain the inherent features of the bootie, without it being removable; more to follow on this later. With the removable inner bootie design, there exists the potential of reducing hot spots from friction that eventually lead to blisters, due to the liner and outer moving as two separate pieces.
Another amazing feature is that the the removable liner has its own rubberized sole, so you’ve now got a built-in pair of camp shoes after a long day of moving on technical terrain. The liners can be dried in a sleeping bag overnight, or even tossed into the washing machine to clean them when you get home. There’s also the ability to interchange the low-cut liners of the shoes with the taller mid-version of the boots to further keep the elements out.
By completely eliminating the tongue found in traditional footwear construction, Arc’teryx was able to maximize the waterproof surface area with the removable liner as well. The potential exists to just toss a mid-size liner into the Alpha2 FL and have an even taller option to keep water out of shoes during shallow water crossings. We have confirmed an insulated mid-cut liner will be available as an add-on product.
Now that you know how the inner footwear functions, let’s talk about the outer shell. The first element is a seamless laminated one-piece upper that’s actually made from four different layers, providing a lightweight and durable solution for the typical abrasion encountered by rock, snow and ice. Despite the four layers used in construction, the upper is still air permeable to keep you cool.
The midsole, who’s role is to cushion and support the foot while providing flexibility and precision traction, is made from light EVA foam, chosen for its soft resilient nature, high durability and its ability to absorb shock while providing precision stability.
This stability comes from a rounded heel strike-zone, which features a Y shape that is assembled without adhesive to allow each side to flex independently of the overall midsole. This allows better cushioning impact on rough, uneven terrain.
Arc’teryx also custom designed the Ortholite footbed to maximize comfort, breathability and arch support.
Rather than simply wrap heel and toe caps around the shoe and glue them in place, Arc’teryx produced molded three-dimensional caps that are individually crafted for each size shoe. This resists cracking, prevents collapsing and adds protection to the most exposed areas of the upper and midsole.
Tying it all together are two different outsoles that are activity specific. The Vibram Arc’teryx Approach Outsole is found on the Alpha shoes and is designed with anti-slip lugs and mountaineering heel tread.
The Vibram Arc’teryx Hiking Outsole is found on the Bora Hiking Boots and features traction groves with a high-grip mountaineering perimeter and heel tread.
There are five primary styles of footwear that Arc’teryx will be releasing in Spring of 2015. Low-cut approach shoe options include the Alpha FL and Alpha FL GTX (with Gore-Tex) in both men’s and women’s versions, as well as the top of the line Alpha2 FL with removable Gore-Tex liner in just a men’s version. Just to note again the Alpha FL and Alpha FL GTX will not have removable liners.
Mid-cut hiking boots round out the last two styles and are available in the Bora2 Mid with removable Gore-Tex liner and Bora Mid GTX with non-removable Gore-Tex liner. There’s also an insulated Gore-Tex liner available to replace the liner in the Bora2 if you need a little more warmth.
The Bora Mid GTX comes in both men’s and women’s versions, but like the Alpha2 FL, the Bora2 Mid are only available in a men’s version. As mentioned earlier, an insulated Gore-Tex bootie is available separately to upgrade the bootie in the Bora if you need added insulation, or want to add them to a pair of the approach shoes.
The Arc’teryx Technical Performance Footwear isn’t releasing until Spring of 2015, so keep an eye out on the Arc’teryx website for more details.
Today we’re extremely excited to announce a couple of new products to the ITS Shop. We’re also very proud to mention that each of these new products are made in the U.S.A. by American workers.
Since the earliest days of ITS, we’ve been getting requests to have hats made and today we’re finally releasing a full spectrum of color options of our ITS Crew Cover hat. Also new are the OC Tactical Hearing Protection Covers available for the three most popular ear protection devices out there. These are made to increase comfort and airflow while wearing hearing protection. Both of these products feature a loop field for affixing name tapes morale patches.
Made in the USA, each six-panel unstructured hat features a pre-curved and color-matched visor (top and bottom) with a comfortable moisture-wicking sweatband.
Made from CORDURA® NYCO 50/50 ripstop fabric, ITS Crew Cover 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 get a new ITS Crew Cover Hat
Made of 1000D CORDURA®, each hearing protection cover is handmade in the US and designed to add comfort to the most popular models of ear protection devices.
The addition of foam backed Dri-Lex to the underside of these Hearing Protection Covers aids in wicking moisture, providing extra cushion comfort and increased airflow. The top includes a 5” piece of loop VELCRO for attaching your own name tape and small attachment loop for securing your hearing protection to a carabiner, GrimLOC or other point.
Sizes
Over the years I’ve shared my experiences getting comfortable with concealed carry and the options that have worked for me. When I first started looking online, resources for women were scarce. In the past few years numerous websites and groups geared toward women have become available to help serve as educational and product resources, but one website in particular has kept me coming back for more.
You may recall a belly band holster review that I shared last year. I purchased this holster from The Well Armed Woman and my review summarized my use of the holster over an extended period of time. Back in 2012 I began receiving the newsletter from Carrie Lightfoot, the company’s owner and founder. It regularly features product information, legal news relative to women and concealed carry, as well as personal stories of why women began to carry concealed or how they’ve been empowered by carrying concealed. I recently had the privilege of speaking with Carrie about her website and her passion for sharing her knowledge with women throughout the country.
Carrie’s goal back in 2012 when she created The Well Armed Woman was to “educate, equip and empower women for self defense and to expand the world of firearms to be the voice for women everywhere.” Prior to that, her own personal experiences and a need for greater physical security triggered her instinct to learn to better protect herself. A friend took her shooting at a range and she realized how much she enjoyed it, which led her to seek out training and become a NRA Certified Firearms Instructor.
“When I began thinking about purchasing and carrying a gun several years ago, there was no single resource for a woman gun owner and shooter. I was frustrated and disappointed to discover that there were so few resources out there that provided straight forward and complete information and products geared specifically toward me as a woman gun owner in this male-driven industry. The information I did find was often condescending and sometimes downright insulting. They simply weren’t talking to me or meeting my needs as a woman interested in gun ownership. The Well Armed Woman is the complete resource for the woman gun owner.”
Carrie’s passion for research and learning led her to create The Well Armed Woman in order to share a truly thoughtful plan of action about whether gun ownership is right for any woman. “Women are different with how we come through that door than men. It’s an emotional thing.” I’ve found Carrie’s newsletters, product line, video reviews and website content to be not only informative, but also provide a no-nonsense approach to help me to consider my options and what will work for me.
One of the main things that attracted me (and keeps me returning) to The Well Armed Woman from my very first visit, was the serious nature behind Carrie’s mission. Sure, she has some fun content and sells the girly accessories for women who are into that, but she’s never lost the focus that she’s there to help provide direction for women who need to know about firearms and what options are available. “My primary focus is self defense.” This is what I relate to when it comes to firearms training and skills.
When visiting The Well Armed Woman, one of the first things that’s noticeable is its easy to navigate format. In the purple navigation bar towards the top of the page is a link for Where to Start. For any woman who may be looking for information on buying their first firearm, or migrating to concealed carry, this is an invaluable link. It’s direct without being intimidating and it’s part of the no-nonsense approach that I appreciate so much from Carrie. This section is broken down into stages and steps that help women to ask themselves important questions before getting started and then provides direction on what’s next.
For the women who are ready to learn or practice shooting, there are additional links to help find a local Chapter in their area to head to the range with, concealed carry products and range equipment and important topics that firearm owners should be aware of. The Chapter Program offered by The Well Armed Woman has grown significantly over the past two years and groups are now established in 43 states. “It’s clear that women are so hungry for knowledge” and the Chapter groups provide an hour of classroom instruction and an hour of range time at every meeting. If a Chapter isn’t available in your area, be sure to keep checking back as additional Chapters are being added regularly.
Keeping your shooting skills on target certainly requires regular practice and knowing your firearm, but being a responsible firearm owner also means keeping up to date with legislation in your area that could effect your right to carry. As you know there are many politicians currently in office (and activists with money to fund campaigns) who feel it’s necessary for Second Amendment rights to be limited or removed based on their personal opinions, not on constitutionality.
One of the topics shared in the most recent TWAW newsletter was bringing awareness to a new campaign targeted at women and moms that could ultimately limit concealed carry and gun ownership rights. Carrie is asking that women “get proactive, and to get out there and speak up. NOTHING is more powerful than your voice and your own personal stories about why your ability to protect yourself must not be jeopardized. I encourage you to take a few minutes and write down why these constitutional rights are so important to you. Write down what the freedom to own and carry a gun means to you and how seriously you are committed to safe and responsible gun ownership. If the possession or use of your gun saved your life or that of someone else, now is the time to share that story.” (Women can submit their personal stories with Carrie by visiting here.)
A realistic concern regarding this latest campaign is that “masterful marketing” could overpower the facts and statistics that those of us in the responsible gun ownership realm are familiar with. Carrie firmly believes that women must share their stories of why armed self defense is important in order help defend our right to carry and influence perception. I agree with her and hope that women in the ITS Community and everywhere will share personal stories with Carrie and with legislators.
As a woman and a mom I know I’ll defend my right to protect myself and my family. There is no better time than now to make sure our voices are heard.
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