There comes a time at every SHOT Show where I kind of get tired of seeing guns and camo.  It’s a passing thing, of course, but for a while, I just want to see something different. 

This show is a great place for folks to bring out the unique, and sometimes useful gadgets, gizmos, and gimmicks… like Birchwood Casey’s new Zombie targets.  These should make a day at the range a lot more interesting than just shooting concentric circles or squares. 

Every year some entrepreneur finds a new way to address one of our most common and basic needs… going to the bathroom.  Most folks may remember the Bumper Dumper from several years back (and yes, he’s apparently still in business).  Well that’s old news now. 

Nowadays it’s all about  “Pack it in, pack it out,” and the chemical powders and gels by companies like Restop allow outdoorsmen to do their business, and then seal it away in zipper-locking bags.  The chemicals lock the waste into a safe, hygienic gel that can be safely disposed of in a garbage can.  Because of the way the enzymes work on the waste, dangerous pathogens such as e coli or disease are neutralized (along with odor).

The system works, and is in use by the military, as well as civilian emergency workers for situations where sanitary facilities are not available. 

Speaking of emergency equipment and preparedness, Energizer is getting more and more into solar power options.  Last year, they introduced a couple of solar-powered device chargers, and this year they’ve added to the line.  They’re also rolling out a whole line of solar powered lights and lanterns.

Walking around the SHOT Show usually builds an appetite, and around lunchtime, it’s not unusual to start to smell some tasty morsels.  If you follow your nose, you’ll often stumble onto some pretty good stuff, as I did when I found the Game Gourmet booth. 

A tantalizing aroma drifted across the hall, emanating from a bubbling crockpot.  A smiling representative offered a taste of elk stew, and I gave it a go with minor trepidation.  I’ve eaten some pretty foul stuff at a couple of booths over the years.  My first taste, however, put my fears to rest. This stuff was good, and I don’t think it was just because I was so hungry! 

The Game Gourmet is a pre-packaged seasoning mix and a cooking bag.  All you really need to do is add your meat, close up the bag, and cook it up in the oven or a crock pot.  Cooking in the bag seals in flavor and moisture, so you don’t end up with dried out meat (a real risk with game meat).  The elk was tender as could be, and the spices were not overwhelming, but really tasty.  They have other mixes for meats such as waterfowl, soups and stews, and roasts and steaks. 

I’ll be back later with some more guns and stuff, because I know that’s what a lot of you want to hear about.  I’m also getting some great info for later posts and articles, so please… stay tuned!

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