Jon H

bump, PM me if you're interested in some big boots

I realize that the Strike was an afterthought when the original Viper was designed, but the attachment system is... for lack of a word... terrible. I've been trying to install this damn thing for the better part of an hour. The two holes in the steel band simply can't line up without just the perfect modulation of pressure from your fingers, but soon as you place the strike piece on top to install it, you are no longer able to hold the steel band properly. I've tried wrapping the whole thing in electrical tape to hold it steady, but that's no good (adds too much thickness). Tried using pre-tensioned fishing line to line the holes up (from the top, non-threaded hole around to one of the stamped cutouts in the band), but the screw and/or the sharp edge of the band cut the line before I'm able to get the screw seated. Any tips? PS - Who knew they were sold one-at-a-time? I just used up a store credit of $15 at backcountry.com - imagine my dismay when only one shows up at my door. WTF. No way in hell would I spend $15 each on these if I knew that ahead of time. A piece of injected molded plastic and stamped steel band? BD's cost on these is 10-12 cents. I get more and more pissed off every second I think about this.

The new offerings from Stoic (The housebrand of Backcountry.com) are nothing short of amazing. Impeccable construction, excellent fit, etc. The only test remaining is actually getting them out in some real inclement weather. I've been too busy with work and havent made it outside since the weather got real cold. However, around town, they've been fantastic. This weekend I've got a 2 day tour coming up, and also a day of ice climbing in the catskills. I'll come back with a full report afterwards. They're also pretty damn inexpensive - definitely better than Mammut or Arcteryx.

Scarpa Inverno Size US13 - SOLD! Brand new, never worn outdoors, still with stuffing inside. Absolutely new. Color is black. Retail is $320. Scarpa Omega Thermo - Size US12.5 - $225 shipped. PRICE DROP TO $199 SHIPPED! Also brand new. Tried on for under 30 seconds. Stuffing was then put back inside. Retail is $390. The deal is that I didn't realize Scarpa uses UK sizing, so these are actually numbered at 12 and 11.5 respectively, but fit USA sizes 13 and 12.5. When I got home with them, they were waaaay too large for my size USA 11 foot. And since I'm a jackass, I let too much time elapse and I can't return them. My loss is your gain. Anyone out there with some big feet need cheap boots? I'll be shipping from NJ, 15 minutes from NYC - if you're local, you're more than welcome to come pick them up in person and I'll knock off what I would have spent for shipping. Payment via Paypal using the "gift" option so there are no fees. If you have to use a credit card (instead of checking account), add 3%.

Anyone used the Mountain Hardwear Hydra yet? The "buzz" is good, but haven't seen a single actual user review yet.

Hopefully you have two 17cm express turbo screws left. If not, I'll take a 17cm and a 19cm. Sending PM now.

PM Sent.

Looking to pick up a Cilogear 40L or 45L in relatively good shape. Turns out I need a larger bag. If you're interested, I can trade a Marmot Talus (2-3 yrs old, excellent shape) or a BD Instinct (Nearly new, maybe 5 days roadside cragging, perfect shape). I also have plenty of Marmot and Mountain Hardwear outerwear, some trad pro (C4's, tricams), and various other related items for trade. Can you tell I'm budget minded? Please shoot me an e-mail: mrhutt at gmail dot com. I'd be paying via paypal and I'm located in NJ.

PM sent.

Wow, great work!

PM sent.

Check's in the mail! All items sold to me

Hey RunningRock, sent you a PM about the ice screw.