Tip for the day: While racing back from the woods to the tractor shed, never carry your shotgun with barrel up in a thunderstorm.

The reason I griped about my old vest from Bass Pro Shops (thanks, again, Larry) was because it didn’t fit right! The smallest size available, it still knocked me mid-thigh and bunched up under my shotgun. Truth be told, I still took a 27-pounder while sitting under a tree in the rain (and again, dang it, another storm blew in). But, when I shouldered my Remington 870, that vest bunched up. Luckily, the tom ran in at about 15 yards, so how could I not hit it?

Sometimes, you only have a cell phone with you. And in this ... it's an original first gen iPhone! Can you tell? Photo by Marti Davis

Anyway, Larry said he thought I’d like this one and I don’t. I LOVE it. You do become one with your vest during turkey season. Your vest is like a toolbox of sorts. This one featured many, many pockets. I don’t have it here, or I’d count them for you. But, enough to even stuff a water bottle into the inside one. Striker pockets and a box call pocket combine with all those other pockets in a downsized lady’s fit. The straps work well, too, as they are not only padded, but adjustable. And, it comes in two of the most popular camos out there: Realtree APG and Mossy Oak Obsession.

Redhead for Her Camo comes in Realtree APG or Mossy Oak Obsession

The most important aspect of this design? The seat! The seat works well, and I took a few naps reclined in it, if that tells you anything. It is supportive and flexible at the same time, and quick to fold up when I needed to move and move fast. (Not that it made any difference. I usually bump turkeys when I move toward them.)

And the price? Still $69.99. A deal.

Visit Bass Pro Shops online to order one before turkey season this year!

And then, I got ‘Ambushed’ 

Actually, Jeff Patterson, of Swanson Russell, asked me if I’d like to look at a Bad Boy Buggies’ Ambush, and take a ride. I like Jeff. He is a great guy to work with, and frankly, I didn’t want to hurt his feelings, so I said I’d look at it. But then, when I saw it … Did I mention that its name is Ambush?

I wanted not only to take a ride in it, I wanted to drive it!

Eric Bondy, vice president of the consumer value stream for Bad Boy Buggies, said, “This vehicle is easy to handle. Short wheel-based, but the big thing is … whether you’re a woman or a man, it’s the ultimate hunting vehicle. The ability to switch between gas and electric in a moment’s notice makes all the difference.”

Then he said, “You wanna drive it?” Oh boy, did I. Eric rode shotgun.

Getting a quick lesson from Eric Bondy. Photo by Jason Baird

We headed out through the parking lot to the desert, and that’s where I floored it, kicked it up to (get this) 17 miles per hour, took a hill, veered off the path, almost dived into a ditch and killed the engine. I looked over at Eric. James Bond cool and calm. “Why don’t you just start it up and put it back on the course, Barb?” His knuckles weren’t even white.

Getting it up to 17 mph. Photo by Jason Baird

I know you’ll want some of the specs, so from the Bad Boy himself, here ya go:

Hills? No problem. Photo by Jason Baird

DUAL DRIVE TECHNOLOGY: THE POWER TO CHOOSE

A rugged and dependable 16-hp V-Twin gas engine delivers more range and supplies the muscle to the rear axle while a stealthy-quiet 48-volt DC electric drivetrain powers the front. Switch from one to the other, or engage both at the push of a button for true 4×4 capability.

MAKE SHORT WORK OF THE LONG HAUL.

Bucket seating for two and independent front suspension cushions the ride

9.6-cubic-foot roto-molded cargo bed carries all your gear, stands or your kill

Manually locking rear differential offers additional torque and traction in extreme conditions

Blackout switch turns off vehicle lighting for better concealment… ideal when it’s time to slip into “stealth mode”

12-volt outlet can be used to power small electronics and equipment

25-inch all-terrain tires keep a firm grip on the action

Hydraulic front and rear brakes and regenerative braking to recharge electric batteries on the fly

1,000-lb towing capacity

No leaning required. Not like an ATV at all. Photo by Jason Baird

I like how it rolls in real quiet. Imagine being able to sneak down a logging road, or through a valley. And for those of you who think, “Hey, I’ll just walk!” All right, go ahead and walk, and maybe you’ll be in with all the others on public lands, or maybe you’ll fall into a rabbit hole, or maybe you’ll slip down a stream bank and twist your ankle. I like this idea because you can get in, get close and still have a vehicle that will take you and your child and your two does back to camp afterwards. Or, actually, I’m thinking my three girlfriends and our four 22-pound toms.

You know, I think if I played golf, I’d just use this on the golf course, too. Why not?

So, after that hair raising ride, we coasted back to the staging area and I asked, “So, what’s the writer’s discount on this thing?” And with a straight face, Eric replied, “Well the MSRP is $13999, but for you, it’s $14500.” No problem. Guess I’ll just have to write four more articles.

Alive and well. We sneak back. Photo by Jason Baird

Check out Bad Boys Buggies.

It’s a fact:  all living things emit an electromagnetic signal.  Many animals can detect electromagnetic signals, especially those put out when a hunter’s heart rate quickens.  The Faraday Cage principle – a discovery that led to other such inventions including lightning protection systems – is used to create the Próis Intuition System, a line of highly engineered hunting apparel which works to keep you undetected even at close range.  The material also has a high carbon content, which may aid in scent elimination from the core of the body working to make you even more invisible in the field.

Próis never wants you to settle for downsized menswear, or upsized children’s gear.  Designed for females by females, the Intuition System which includes a long-sleeve shirt and fitted pants is soft against the skin and breathable making for perfect layering pieces.  Created for the female form, its carbon fiber grid is constructed of carbon yarn and polyester.  The apparel is laser cut to resist fraying and features tapered ankle and wrist cuffs to both keep warmth in and fit properly with boots and gloves.  The garments are machine washable and proudly made in the U.S.A.

For more information about the new Próis Intuition System, or to learn more about
the company’s innovative line of serious, high-performance huntwear for real
women, contact: Próis Hunting and Field Apparel, 28001-B US Highway 50,
Gunnison, CO 81230 ·(970) 641-3355 · Or visit www.próishunting.com.
To check out the latest updates on Próis field and pro staff and company news,
visit the Próis blog at www.proishunting.com/community/index.php. ʻLike usʼ
on Facebook: www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=172754768618&ref=ts.
Follow Próis on Twitter: www.twitter.com/Próishunting.

The concept? Handmade, paracord bracelets that can be unwound in emergencies. Think tourniquets, rope, bootlace, etc. And then, think about not only making a quality product, but donating thousands (more than $300,000 in 2011) to the Wounded Warrior Project!

We’re going to reach out to SurvivalStraps. In the meantime, we encourage you to check out their philosophy and of course, their products.

SurvivalStraps. Not only for wrists. Photo courtesy of SurvivalStraps

The Ambush features both a 48-volt electric drivetrain and a 16 hp, 480cc V-Twin gas engine, either of which can operate the vehicle independently in two-wheel-drive operation, or which can be operated in tandem for four-wheel-drive power. With a range of up to 100 miles, the Ambush offers the avid hunter a solution for longer hunting excursions where both extended range and low-noise, odorless operation are necessary for a successful hunt.

“We are thrilled to announce the addition of the Ambush to the Bad Boy Buggies line of products,” said Eric Bondy, vice president of the consumer value stream for Bad Boy Buggies. “This revolutionary vehicle brings pioneering technology into the outdoor industry, and eliminates the tradeoff hunters previously had to make between an electric vehicle’s silent operation and a gas-powered machine’s extensive range.”

“The Ambush is the ultimate vehicle for hunters seeking range and power combined with low-noise, zero-emissions operation required to sneak up on a trophy kill.”

The Ambush will be available in both a four-passenger model with a rear-facing back seat, and a two-passenger model with a 9.6-cubic-foot cargo bed. The vehicle provides three separate operating modes: rear-wheel-drive 2WD gas, front-wheel-drive 2WD electric, and 4WD with both gas and electric powertrains engaged. Operators can shift from gas to electric mode “on the fly” using a simple control integrated into the vehicle’s keyswitch.

An onboard computer coordinates the operation of the Ambush’s dual powertrains, ensuring that the gas and electric systems work together for maximum power and efficiency and making control easy for the driver.

Other standard features include:

• a manually locking rear differential, which can be engaged in 2WD gas or 4WD operation, to help navigate the toughest terrain;

• a momentary boost switch that offers immediate 4WD operation at the push of a button to power through the trail’s deepest ruts and eddies;

• four-wheel hydraulic brakes with a regenerative braking feature that recharges the vehicle’s 48-volt electric drivetrain as the vehicle is in operation;

• independent A-arm front suspension with MacPherson struts to absorb the bumps and jolts of the journey;

• front bucket seats to get driver and passenger to the blind in comfort;

• a 2-inch rear hitch receiver to tow implements and equipment ;

• headlights and taillights to light the way at dawn and dusk, and a front brush guard to protect the vehicle’s finish in dense brush and on overgrown paths;

• a blackout switch that immediately cuts power to vehicle lighting to allow for stealthy approach;

• numerous safety features including a rollover protection system (ROPS), hand-actuated parking brake and optional three-point seatbelts;

• 25-inch trail tires to provide surefooted traction on tough, muddy climbs.

To meet the specific needs or style of any owner, the Ambush can be customized with a wide variety of options and accessories including a winch, optional power bed lift, gun and bow racks, a dry-storage compartment, ammo box, a weather enclosure, and a heater/defroster.

The Ambush will be available through Bad Boy Buggies dealers in summer 2012. The vehicle will be displayed at the Bad Boy Buggies exhibit (Booth #1444) at the 2012 NSSF SHOT Show, Jan. 17-19 at the Sands Expo and Convention Center in Las Vegas. For more information about the vehicle or to locate your nearest authorized Bad Boy Buggies dealer, visit http://www.badboybuggies.com, and join Bad Boy Buggies’ Facebook community at www.facebook.com/badboybuggies.

About Bad Boy Buggies
Bad Boy Buggies is a leader in utility vehicles for hunting and outdoor lifestyles. Bad Boy Buggies pioneered the category of electrically powered 4×4 vehicles, ideal for hunting and outdoor recreation due to their silent, odorless operation and environmentally friendly, emissions-free drivetrains. Today, the Bad Boy Buggies product line ranges from four-wheel-drive electric hunting machines such as the XTO, a fully electric, 4WD vehicle with seating for four, to the Work Series of diesel, gas- and electric-powered utility vehicles, including the Bad Boy Buggies XD, a versatile 4WD, diesel-powered utility vehicle with a total capacity of 1,600 pounds.

About Textron Inc.
Textron Inc. is a multi-industry company that leverages its global network of aircraft, defense, industrial and finance businesses to provide customers with innovative solutions and services. Textron in known around the world for its powerful brands such as Bell Helicopter, Cessna Aircraft Company, Jacobsen, Kautex, Lycoming, E-Z-GO, Greenlee, and Textron Systems. More information is available at www.textron.com.

See the knife.

Katherine Grand in an Elevation jacket. Photo courtesy of Prois Hunting Apparel

The new Próis Elevation Jacket is constructed from breathable, waterproof laminate fabric with waterproof zippers that snap down for complete silence — ensuring the most extreme huntress can perform at her best no matter what Mother Nature dishes out.  Próis’ signature nylon tricot lining and incorporated thumbholes make the jacket perfect for layering. In fact, this high-performance jacket works beautifully as a system with its brethren Elevation Series pieces.  Starting with the Elevation Base Layer Shirt, designed for wicking and keeping you dry, followed by the lightweight, sleek and athletic Elevation Vest for insulation.  Rounding out the system is the Elevation Jacket for complete protection against the elements.  This complete layering system allows hunters to easily add layers as the weather takes a turn, or remove pieces as the hunt heats up.  It’s all part of Próis’ technical design, which helps optimize movement and keep you comfortable and ready to take on any goats, Alpine sheep or rugged big game that cross your path.

From the fitted, female cut to the rugged construction and features, every detail of the new
Próis Elevation Jacket is designed specifically for the hardcore female hunter.  The jacket also features deep-set hand pockets, which are great for housing activated hand-warmers and freezing fingers.  An integrated arm pocket is an ideal stow-away for valuables such as ID cards or hunting licenses.

For ultimate concealment, the new Próis Elevation Jacket features the Mothwing Mountain Mimicry® camo pattern which is based on the unique designs of the Lepidoptera Noctuidae moth and blends naturally into any environment. The jacket is available in sizes XS thru XL and like all Próis Hunting and Field Apparel, it’s proudly made in the U.S.A.

For more information about the new Próis Elevation Jacket, or to learn more about
Próisʼ innovative line of serious, high-performance huntwear for real women,contact:
Próis Hunting and Field Apparel, 28001-B US Highway 50, Gunnison, CO 81230 ·
(970) 641-3355 · Or visit www.próishunting.com. To check out the latest updates
on Próis field and pro staff and company news, visit the Próis blog at http://www.proishunting.com/community/index.php. ʻLike usʼ on Facebook:http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=172754768618&ref=ts. Follow Próis
on Twitter:  http://www.twitter.com/Próishunting.

The Acorn slipper — either enclosed Polar Mocs or in spa flip flop style. Cushy yet comfort your feet. This little number is on sale for $33.99 and is called Chocolate Dots.

Barbara Baird in Carhartt and Muck boots. Photo by Jason Baird.

Here’s the deal with this photo. I’m wearing Carhartt overalls, jacket and hat … and Muck boots from Hanks! Carhartt … when I’m not in camo, I want to be in it because that means I’m outside! Hanks Clothing describes its new line of Carhartt overalls:

Womens Carhartt overalls are brand new to Hanks Clothing!  If you love to be outdoors working on your flowers or your garden put on a pair of Carhartt overalls and get down in the dirt.  With such features as padded knees you could enjoy being outside feeling the sunshine all day without worrying about your knees.  If you think that your shutters on your home could use a little sprucing up jump into the womens Carhartt overalls and have a ball.  They are easy to move around in and have multiple utility pockets to help you have more hands if yours are full.

Yep, that about says it all. They are easy to move in and that’s why I love Carhartts … it’s like they meld with your body to create a working machine. They stay soft, yet are durable. And they are warm!

Gretchen Steele wore her Woody Bayou Muck boots out to the spillway with TeamWON's carp eradication unit: (L-R) Stacey Huston, Hawk Huston, Josiah Huston, Barb Baird and Gretchen Steele. Photo by Jason Baird.

We all wear Muck boots at The WON. I own three pairs. One of the main reasons we like, like, like Hanks Clothing, is because they offer free shipping! And even some of their items qualify for free shipping on returns. They make it simple to try and simple to buy.

My Mucks: Original pair in men's sizes (don't make these any more), Woody Max for women, SUV hiker.

Check out Hanks Clothing and see if your outdoor lifestyle can be enhanced in 2012, too!