View Full Version : Lightweight Thermometer?
vaporjourney
08-05-2006, 06:28
Does anyone have any ideas for a small, functional, ultralight thermometer for the trail? The only thing I've seen was one built into a compass, but already having a compass, I'd hate to purchase a new one. What do you all use, if anything?
LIhikers
08-05-2006, 10:04
If it's that hot, or that cold, I really don't want to know the exact temperture. Everything in between is good.
FanaticFringer
08-05-2006, 10:29
www.campmor.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?productId=46831&memberId=12500226
Fiddleback
08-05-2006, 19:38
What I'd like to find is a lightweight mini-max thermometer. I have a mini-max put out by Coghlan but I'm not too impressed with it.
http://www.rei.com/online/store/ProductDisplay?langId=-1&catalogId=40000008000&storeId=8000&partNumber=745040&memberId=-2000&link=1&cm_ven=ad_Shopping&cm_ite=rei&source=14175&cm_pla=na&cm_cat=datafeed
GlazeDog
08-07-2006, 21:07
vaporjourney--
I'm not sure what you're using for a time piece(if any), but I use the High Gear Digital Compass (watch,alarm,digital compass,thermometer). All that for 1.5 oz.--I clipped off the metal ring at the base. I don't know if they are still making this item officially, but I just googled it--it is on sale at cabelas.com
good luck,
GlazeDog
hikerjohnd
08-07-2006, 21:17
What I'd like to find is a lightweight mini-max thermometer. I have a mini-max put out by Coghlan but I'm not too impressed with it.
http://www.rei.com/online/store/ProductDisplay?langId=-1&catalogId=40000008000&storeId=8000&partNumber=745040&memberId=-2000&link=1&cm_ven=ad_Shopping&cm_ite=rei&source=14175&cm_pla=na&cm_cat=datafeed
I had one of these and the slightest bump caused it to reset. After a day in my pack (or clipped on) it was pretty much worthless. I returned it and the replacement had the same problem. I like the idea though - I hate wearing a watch in the woods but wish I had a more dependable thermometer. Am I rambling?
I carry a Highgear AltiTech II
Not sure what you would call it, but I've got a real light thermometer consisting of a plastic tube maybe 1\4" in diameter and 6" long with the thermo stuff inside, with a blue plastic cover which slides down over it. Accurate, light, and fits anywhere. Its probably over 10 years old though, I wouldn't know where to find another one:\
Brian
Don't have a link to give you, but I know they make them in strips, like a flexible sticker about 2-3 inches long. I can't think of anything lighter than that.
I have several compasses also, but in the interest of lightening up and multiuse gear I picked up a Suunto Comet micro-compass w/ thermometer & 1 1/2" scale & wind chill scale (.32 oz). It's more than a toy and less than a full utility compass. However, the AT is a special case to me (YMMV). I just want to confirm my sense of direction, not have full map and orienteering abilities. The thermometer works fine and the device is covered in heavy plastic. It seemed a nice compromise. I found it at EMS, and I think REI has it under their brand.
BlackCloud
08-08-2006, 12:07
Taylor used to make excellent little minimum registering thermometers that cost $29, but I bought the last 2 about 3 years ago! I have since broken one (they break easily).
I have been searching for some time w/ no results. I don't think it exists.....
Taylor used to make excellent little minimum registering thermometers that cost $29, but I bought the last 2 about 3 years ago! I have since broken one (they break easily).
I have been searching for some time w/ no results. I don't think it exists.....
not exactly little but relatively cheap: http://www.seedburo.com/online_cat/categ06/314sd.asp
registers max and min - might be able to trim it up some to reduce size/weight
Streamweaver
08-09-2006, 11:11
http://www.basspro.com/servlet/catalog.TextId?hvarTextId=22921&hvarTarget=search&cmCat=SearchResults <<<this is what I carry,I havnt weighed it yet but its very light.
I have this: http://www.rei.com/online/store/ProductDisplay?productId=48094780&storeId=8000&catalogId=40000008000&langId=-1
Just look below the pic and there's a link to view the other side w/the thermometer. It is in 5 degree increments though, so if you're looking for exact, this may not be for you.
Emsadida
08-09-2006, 14:41
What about a cigar hygrometer? Seeing as how you don't need one designed to get the crap beat out of it, this little guy should do the trick. It's got a min/max on it so you can keep an eye on over-night lows and daytime highs. Just be diligent in resetting on a regular schedule.
http://www.donsalvatore.net/products/product.php?id=59
copythat
10-20-2006, 01:31
http://tinyurl.com/yjgdye
ShakeyLeggs
10-20-2006, 01:50
Does anyone have any ideas for a small, functional, ultralight thermometer for the trail? The only thing I've seen was one built into a compass, but already having a compass, I'd hate to purchase a new one. What do you all use, if anything?
This is what I use and it works great. And the price and seller are great.
http://www.antigravitygear.com/store/product_info.php?cPath=23&products_id=209
Fiddleback
10-20-2006, 12:07
This is what I use and it works great. And the price and seller are great.
http://www.antigravitygear.com/store/product_info.php?cPath=23&products_id=209
From what I've seen in the past, that's a good price antigravitygear is posting.
I believe this is the same piece, less the compass, that I posted about above. Its accuracy is OK but not great. However, what I really don't like is that the temperature updates every five minutes. In other words, you look at the thermometer and you may or may not be looking at the 'current' temperature. I've seen and heard TV, radio, and internet reporting give temps from minutes or hours ago but I've never seen an actual thermometer give time-lag measurements...that just bugs me.
I know that sounds obsessive and My Lady says I have an obsessive personality. I'm trying very, very, very, very, very hard to correct that. Very. :rolleyes:
FB
Frolicking Dinosaurs
10-20-2006, 12:39
I'm so low tech -- I have a peel and stick thermometer / humidity guage meant to be used on a reptile's enclosure wall. It's tiny and pretty darn accurate. Range is 20 to 110 F. If it's above or below that, I don't want to know....
otterman
10-20-2006, 13:59
I agree with Fiddleback about that thermometer. If you pull it out of the car on a cold day, it may take 30 minute for that thermometer to give you the current temperature. It's not just obsessive behavior.
FanaticFringer
10-20-2006, 15:33
I agree with Fiddleback about that thermometer. If you pull it out of the car on a cold day, it may take 30 minute for that thermometer to give you the current temperature. It's not just obsessive behavior.
Thanks for the info. I was looking at getting one of those. Might just buy the Timex Reef Gear Temperature Sensor Watch from Campmor.
FanaticFringer
10-20-2006, 16:12
On second thought, after reading the reviews, I wont buy this watch.
www.amazon.com/Timex-Gear-Temperature-Sensor-51723/dp/B0000U0KW8
Fiddleback
10-20-2006, 19:03
As I posted, I'm not really gung ho on the above mini-max. Besides the time lag and questionable accuracy (+/- 5° according to the manual) the lower limit is 14°F. Shoot! My backyard has already been down to 17° this month and I'm only a couple hundred feet higher than Missoula. So...
I went searching again and found the Extech 39240 Waterproof Thermometer at http://www.ambientweather.com/ex39wath.html . It looks awkward for backpacking but it's only 6" long and, at .7oz, less than half the weight of the one I have. Its range is -40 - 392°F (good for testing those alky stoves...). It's in stock at the above url for $19 but has a whopping $9 shipping charge to my western Montana location. Gotta do some more searching to beat that S&H...
FB
copythat
10-25-2006, 02:23
with this little baby, you can measure the temp inside AND outside the tent (or shelter) AND measure the humidity in the tent (or shelter) and ... http://tinyurl.com/yegwje ... ok, maybe it's best for car camping.
This is what I use and it works great. And the price and seller are great.
http://www.antigravitygear.com/store/product_info.php?cPath=23&products_id=209
I sue the same thing. Got mine at the Sportman's Warehouse for 7.95. The family is always interested in the temperature, especially the highs and lows. Just reset it once a day.
Fiddleback
11-02-2006, 19:25
I went searching again and found the Extech 39240 Waterproof Thermometer at http://www.ambientweather.com/ex39wath.html . It looks awkward for backpacking but it's only 6" long and, at .7oz, less than half the weight of the one I have. Its range is -40 - 392°F (good for testing those alky stoves...). It's in stock at the above url for $19 but has a whopping $9 shipping charge to my western Montana location. Gotta do some more searching to beat that S&H...
I found this thermometer on EBay and got it, postage paid, for just under $21. Currently, the same seller has three more up for bid...YMMV.
I've decided that I do like this thermometer and it is going to work for backpacking. It's a heck of a lot more accurate than the other one I have (see above) and this one is much easier to operate too. I am a happy EBay camper:banana .
I do have a lingering question, though. Will the battery be viable at the extremes of the thermometer's range? Hopefully, I won't find out.
FB
Skidsteer
11-02-2006, 20:01
I picked up one of these (http://images.google.com/imgres?imgurl=http://lib.store.yahoo.net/lib/partshelf/ci00799Small.jpg&imgrefurl=http://www.partshelf.com/ci00799.html&h=300&w=220&sz=26&hl=en&start=1&tbnid=INqKGNRUp-TacM:&tbnh=116&tbnw=85&prev=/images%3Fq%3Dacu-rite%2B%2Bthermometers%2Bwindow%26svnum%3D10%26hl% 3Den%26lr%3D%26sa%3DG) last week for $4.95 at an Ingles grocery store.
It weighs just over an ounce after removing the suction cup.
One of the neatest features is that it has an on/off switch on the bottom so you can extend battery life.
Kerosene
11-03-2006, 13:46
Fiddleback: How much does it weigh?
The Weasel
11-03-2006, 13:55
There are small fob type thermometers all over. I think the BSA catalog has one.
But it's kind of like carrying a nuclear weapon, too. Sure, once in a while it might come in handy. But it's not really necessary, and just adds some useless weight.
Besides - most shelters have Weather Rocks, which are highly reliable weather instruments under almost any circumstances.
The Weasel
Fiddleback
11-03-2006, 21:06
Fiddleback: How much does it weigh?
According to the manufacturer, 0.7oz. According to my WalMart scales, just under 1oz.
Kerosene
11-04-2006, 10:46
Thanks, Fiddleback. In searching back through this thread I see that you already stated the manufacturer's claimed weight and dimensions back in Post #23. Sorry about that.
Fiddleback
11-04-2006, 18:03
da nada, Kerosene.
I've been looking for a mini-max thermometer for a loonnng time and this is the best one I've found. Good range and accuracy, easy to use and carry, lightweight but looks like it will hold up on the trail.
FB
Fiddleback
11-17-2006, 19:44
Yeah...OK...so I've got a lot of time on my hands today...:o
I just tried the above (my post 2Nov) Extech thermometer as an oral thermometer and it worked just fine (FYI, it registered my temp as 98.2). Ummmm...dual use!
And did I mention its convenient pocket clip that also has a cut out which allows the thermometer to be hung on a peg/nail/twig, etc.?
Ummmm...stocking stuffers for the obsessed.
FB
HikeLite
11-19-2006, 18:38
Fiddleback, it can be used as an icepick or as a defensive weapon too..lol.
Fiddleback
11-19-2006, 20:48
Yeah! But probably only once.:D
FB
Fiddleback
11-21-2006, 10:50
If this works for cellular maybe we've got another thermometer for the trail...
http://a.sc.msn.com/2C/CEG3EOKKB-3VO`!`QX4QI~.gif (http://www.msnbc.com/comics/daily.asp?sfile=dp061121&vts=112120060631)
Streamweaver
11-22-2006, 11:46
On second thought, after reading the reviews, I wont buy this watch.
www.amazon.com/Timex-Gear-Temperature-Sensor-51723/dp/B0000U0KW8
I have the Reef Gear watch and its a great watch,but like someone posted about the other themometor,you have to wait about half an hour for the temp sensor to give you a accurate temp. The sensor picks up not only air temp but body heat as well.
IMO, the one FanaticFringer posted from Campmor is close enough. Another good indicator is if your water bottle is frozen solid it's COLD!
atraildreamer
12-17-2006, 02:17
Save yor mioney and some weight.
Use what's available in your surroundings:
http://www.joe-ks.com/archives_jan2006/IrishWeatherMachine.jpg
How about one of those stupid little key-chain thermometers they sell at the checkout counters of REI, EMS, etc? Comes with a tiny compass, too, and sells for $4.95. Just how accurate do you need it to be, anyway? :rolleyes: Oh, the weight? Maybe half an ounce, give or take..
Lone Wolf
12-17-2006, 11:06
Does anyone have any ideas for a small, functional, ultralight thermometer for the trail? The only thing I've seen was one built into a compass, but already having a compass, I'd hate to purchase a new one. What do you all use, if anything?
Why would you need a thermometer on the trail? Knowing the temperature serves what purpose?
Why would you need a thermometer on the trail? Knowing the temperature serves what purpose?
Another factoid for the day's diary. :cool:
Lone Wolf
12-17-2006, 11:18
Another factoid for the day's diary. :cool:
I'm asking questions, not stating facts. Fact is there's absolutely no reason to have a thermometer on the trail. There. Answered my own ?.:)
M: Ah. I'd like to have an argument, please.
R: Certainly sir. Have you been here before?
M: No, I haven't, this is my first time.
R: I see. Well, do you want to have just one argument, or were you thinking of taking a course?
M: Well, what is the cost?
R: Well, It's one pound for a five minute argument, but only eight pounds for a course of ten.
M: Well, I think it would be best if I perhaps started off with just the one and then see how it goes.
R: Fine. Well, I'll see who's free at the moment.
[etc.]
Fiddleback
12-17-2006, 12:45
The questioning of a thermometer on the trail is similar to questioning why some weigh their pack...some just like to know. Some like to see how light they can get their pack and other's like to know how low of temps they can/have endured. I think there's polls about both on this web site. However, knowing these particulars doesn't change either the pack weight or the temp.
But there's practical issues as well. A thermometer (preferably a mini-max) is important, if not on the trail, in the backyard. During a backyard experiment, the thermometer will tell you how low your equipment/sleep system will take you. You can match that knowledge with weather forecasts and have a good idea of what gear to take on a bp. On the trail, the thermometer will allow you to compare actual conditions with the forecasts and, again, give you an idea of the real-world capabilities of your equipment.
I've packed for years with one...I've packed for years without one. But I like knowing the temp beyond the 'damn, it's cold' observations and the thermometer I have now costs me less than an ounce.
FB
UCONNMike
12-17-2006, 12:50
but already having a compass
what do you need a compass for? and if you aer the kind of person carrying a compass why are you even worried about an extra ounce or two for a thermometer. if you want a lightweight option, try carrying neither. sorry to be so harsh but i just dont get it...
what do you need a compass for? and if you aer the kind of person carrying a compass why are you even worried about an extra ounce or two for a thermometer
You can have both for 0.3 oz and about $5. A tiny Suunto keychain thingie does the trick. Much more important (and often forgotten) is a tiny plastic whistle.
Wise Old Owl
11-30-2007, 01:18
http://www.ambientweather.com/spinprdioute.html
affordable digital with Humidity - suction cup can be front or back or removed. picked it up at a local hardware just a couple of oz.'s
LIhikers
11-30-2007, 08:17
As far as I'm concerned there's only 3 temperatures when hiking. It's either too hot, too cold, or jusssssst right. But maybe that's because my eyes aren't good enough to read those small thermometers without rumaging through my pack to get my glasses.
Fiddleback
11-30-2007, 10:45
http://www.ambientweather.com/spinprdioute.html
affordable digital with Humidity - suction cup can be front or back or removed. picked it up at a local hardware just a couple of oz.'s
I've looked at some like this one...in fact, two days ago I went through the Missoula WalMart's selection. While their hot temp range went up to 158F (??where in the world is it that hot??) the lowest low of the choices was only 14F, one only went down to 32F! Shoot...our high yesterday didn't reach 32!
Jason chased after the Golden Fleece...I chase after an acceptable mini-max thermometer... The models from Brunton look good but I don't want to spend that much (read, I'm not that desparate...yet) and Santa hasn't got my list...yet
FB
max patch
11-30-2007, 10:59
Fact is there's absolutely no reason to have a thermometer on the trail.
Yup. If you're hot you take clothes off. If you're cold your put clothes on.
Having said that, I can see why someone would want a thermometer IF they were going to keep a journal. The min-max info would be a bit of useless yet interesting daily standard info (miles walked, camping location) for the readers.
budforester
11-30-2007, 11:00
www.campmor.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?productId=46831&memberId=12500226 (http://www.campmor.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?productId=46831&memberId=12500226)
I have one of these on a pack zipper, but the reading is not reliable. The glass shakes loose from the scale. I guess I could glue it in place while matching readings with a certified thermometer, but I've put up with +/- five degrees.
Fiddleback
11-30-2007, 20:49
Yup. If you're hot you take clothes off. If you're cold your put clothes on.
Having said that, I can see why someone would want a thermometer IF they were going to keep a journal. The min-max info would be a bit of useless yet interesting daily standard info (miles walked, camping location) for the readers.
There is some benefit to knowing how cold it got during the night. It allows you to judge how effective your sleep system is and to what extremes it will keep you comfortable. From that information you can further judge if your gear is going to do the job given the forecast for your next night out.
Different foks carry different things for comfort and enjoyment. Some bring thermometers, some bring paperbacks...before the age of iPod and when I had a good thermometer I brought both. But knowing the lows already experienced with one's equipment and the forecast ahead goes beyond arcane enjoyment. It is a safety issue as well.
FB
saimyoji
11-30-2007, 20:58
There is some benefit to knowing how cold it got during the night. It allows you to judge how effective your sleep system is and to what extremes it will keep you comfortable. From that information you can further judge if your gear is going to do the job given the forecast for your next night out.
FB
I've stayed up all night watching my thermometer move just for this purpose alone. :o
warraghiyagey
11-30-2007, 21:02
I've stayed up all night watching my thermometer move just for this purpose alone. :o
Yeah, I was going to say if you're camping and need a thermometer to tell you how could it got during the night, ummm. . . your brain-deadness is probably moreof an issue than whether or not your gear would be good for successive nights out.:rolleyes:
Fiddleback
12-01-2007, 12:24
OK...let's try this again...my writing hasn't been effective.
In this and other forums we preach over and over again to know your equipment...to understand what it can and cannot do and to come to this understanding before hitting the trail. None the less, we frequently see posts about being cold at night (less often, there's a post about being hot...). Virtually all of us agree that keeping warm is an individual thing...that bag ratings and others' experiences are not sufficient...ya' gotta develop a sleep system that works for you.
So how do you do that if you don't know what the temperature is/has been? How do you know you're going to be comfortable on the trail if you don't know in what temps you've tested your system? On the trail, how can you determine what the problem is if you suddenly wake up cold in a system you thought was going to work? Is it because of your physical conditon or because the temp is 10 degrees below what you expected?
My belief here is that if you can refine your data you can refine what you pack. At what point do you move from a winter bag to a summer bag or to a 16oz quilt? In my hammock, with my thin pad and typical sleep system, I'm good into the mid-20s but feel cold coming through the pad at 22F. Because of that knowledge, I know my light sleep system is OK in my region from late-May to early-October. And I know to beef up my system if I move outside those dates or if I'm at elevation or if the forecast is ominous. And maybe that's one reason why I'm so enamored with mini-max thermometers...knowing precisely what works for me allows me to reduce pack weight and volume making room for those cameras, iPods, and other non-essential but fun things often carried. Or just a lighter pack.:) In fact, I don't carry a sleeping bag yet I know I'll be warm and safe at the above temps. I also know that I have no margin for error even when allowing for a safety margin and if the forecast is for something lower or if conditions deteriorate on the trail I have to make adjustments (like beefing up the pad or going to ground:eek: ). Using a mini-max, both for home testing and for keeping an eye on trends on the trail has been, and continues to be, a great help.
I still chase the Golden Fleece of a 'perfect' mini-max thermometer. For me, it's one of those fun, if not essential, things to carry yet I also believe it has some very important utility...sort of like a flashlight. My Lady says I'm obsessive but when it comes to my pursuit of the perfect mini-max I'm not. I'm really, really, really not. Really. I'm not.:D
FB
johnny quest
12-01-2007, 12:31
i have the highgear traildrop.
http://www.highgear.com/prod/TrailDrop15.cfm?InventoryID=15&CategoryID=16
i have been testing it for "seaworthiness" by carrying it on my work backpack. it gets a pretty good beating that way and so far has been fine. the thermometer is setable to 5 degrees in any direction and i had to lower mine the full 5 allowed to get it to match 3 other thermometers. the compass is also calibratable. i hate watches so unless this thing craps the bed in my tests it is the one.
Terrapin Too
That wasn't an argument, it was just contradiction.
Argument is an intellectual process. Contradiction is just the automatic gainsaying of any statement the other person makes.
Anyway, your five minutes is up
We don't need any stinking thermometers. We know when we are warm or cold. For example the other week I was rather warm with just my liner and the temperature was about right to keep me warm with just my liner. Not really sure how warm it was, but next time they forecast or I expect the same temperature, I'll be ready !
Possibly what I had for dinner helped, but I cannot remember what it was. Not important anyway because we don't want to make it all so predictable, do we ?
Franco
Why would you need a thermometer on the trail? Knowing the temperature serves what purpose?Fair question. I doubt you would need one but I know I need one because we get cold here that I haven't experienced in the woods yet, and I find it hard to measure objectively once its much below freezing.
I think it is worth carrying in temperatures below freezing, if you might encounter extreme cold. It allows you to make a more quantitative assessment of just how cold it actually got compared to how cold it might have gotten based on climate extremes. This would allow you to assess how prepared you were compared to how cold it might have gotten. It is also useful sometimes to know just how fast the temperature is dropping, once it is below freezing. I would not say it is useful in temperatures above freezing, or if you are seasoned enough to know that you are prepared for the climate extreme for the region and month you are hiking in. Of course in exposed places like ridges and high altitudes you have to account for wind chill also, and also stuff like freezing rain followed by sub-zero, and full sun or open night sky, but I think that can be accounted for without instruments.
For the other extreme, Extreme Hot, Extreme Hot & Humid, I think you would need to measure both temperature and humidity, and perhaps sun exposure also. I have no experience hiking in such weather.
For temperature I use a thermometer that goes on my zipper. Not sure of the weight. You might find a more useful place for it, where you need a pull tab, but away from your body heat.
Doughnut
12-02-2007, 08:18
BAck to the original question, check the Teacher's supply store near you, or on line, they have super light, almost disposable thermometers for teaching science, you can get as fancy or as light as you like.
I used to carry a tang type thermometer, however I seldom consulted it, and question the reliability and accuracy so no more.
For me, it's either sweating too much or my water bottles are freezing, everything in between is doable,
Best of luck
DoughNUt
I hope I provided a very practical justification for carrying one when waterbottles are freezing.
FanaticFringer
12-02-2007, 09:31
This ones looks real nice. Kinda spendy.www.brunton.com/product.php?id=259
It is talked about on this thread at hammock forums. www.hammockforums.net/forum/showthread.php?t=2253&highlight=thermometer
walkinfool
12-02-2007, 19:43
Don't have a link to give you, but I know they make them in strips, like a flexible sticker about 2-3 inches long. I can't think of anything lighter than that.
I've seen these stuck on the outside of fish tanks, so you could probably pick one up at a pet store. They're just stickers, so they weigh virtually nothing. You could stick one on a trekking pole, since it's a good surface for a sticker and the pole should always be the same temp as the air. I can't find a link to an example, but it'd be worth trying a pet store.
Todd Heyn
12-03-2007, 13:50
I'm so low tech -- I have a peel and stick thermometer / humidity guage meant to be used on a reptile's enclosure wall. It's tiny and pretty darn accurate. Range is 20 to 110 F. If it's above or below that, I don't want to know....
Dino,
Do you remember where you got your thermoneter? I have been looking on-line and have only been able to find peel and stick reptile thermometers that have a range between 70 and 100 degrees.
Frolicking Dinosaurs
12-03-2007, 14:27
Sorry, I have had this one forever. I don't remember where I got it. It was for use in a zoo where the reptiles hibernated.
johnny quest
12-03-2007, 14:38
dumb post of the day here. i have one of those tape thermometers you hold to your childs head to read. woudl that work on inantimate objects?
Frolicking Dinosaurs
12-03-2007, 14:44
dumb post of the day here. i have one of those tape thermometers you hold to your childs head to read. woudl that work on inantimate objects?Yes, but those have a very limited range.
I didn't think Dino's needed thermometers.
I thought when its cold they just sllooowwwweeeeedddddd dddddddooooooowwwwwwwwnnnnnnnnn.
LIhikers
12-03-2007, 15:51
Virtually all of us agree that keeping warm is an individual thing...that bag ratings and others' experiences are not sufficient...ya' gotta develop a sleep system that works for you.
So how do you do that if you don't know what the temperature is/has been? FB
Now there's a good point I hadn't thought of.:-?
Thanks for teaching me a thing or two, Fiddleback!:)
Fiddleback
12-03-2007, 19:51
De nada!:)
FB
SGT Rock
12-03-2007, 19:55
You could look at it like any other piece of non-essential stuff: if you like to waste time looking at a thermometer then that is your business. You really don't need a reason to carry anything on the trail.
That said, some are better than others - so carry what works for you. And if you do, go light.
I carry one for now because I am testing out the limits of my system before I go thru-hiking. I also use it as an anti-snivel meter. If I start thinking about how cold it is and how I wish I were warmer - I can look at it and see it is only 35F and that isn't really that cold. Then I stop sniveling.
I carry one for now because I am testing out the limits of my system before I go thru-hiking. I also use it as an anti-snivel meter. If I start thinking about how cold it is and how I wish I were warmer - I can look at it and see it is only 35F and that isn't really that cold. Then I stop sniveling.Sounds like you should name it an anti-snivelometer.:) I like the ring to it. Quick aside question SGT, what is your worst case scenario with your early February start?
SGT Rock
12-03-2007, 20:24
Sounds like you should name it an anti-snivelometer.:) I like the ring to it. Quick aside question SGT, what is your worst case scenario with your early February start?
I die from hypothermia
Thank you folks, we'll be here all week.:D
SGT Rock
12-03-2007, 20:41
Actually, since ther are too many "what-if's" to list...
1. Hike the shortest route off the trail to a road and make my way to either a phone or a car and call home. A ride is three hours a way or less - no sense in paying for an unschedule hotel or hostel.
2. Hole up until weather improves. Using a tarp, some know how, and two thick quilts with all my clothing I can weather a good bit.
3. The most vital - pay attention to weather forcasts and take zeros at home rather than fighting the weather. If spend time at home it will be well spent.
smokymtnsteve
12-03-2007, 20:43
does it really get cold way down south thar!
SGT Rock
12-03-2007, 20:49
does it really get cold way down south thar!
Not like it does up yonder.
Found this on the web so it must be true. You southerners probably grow up knowing this stuff, right?
When the temperature drops below 35F, rhododendron leaves begin to cup and curl at the edges. At 25F, the leaves have curled so tight that half the leaf surface has disappeared and the leaves droop. When temperatures hit the teens, leaves shrivel even tighter, turn brownish-green and dangle like stiff string beans. This response to temperature changes is a rhododendron's method of preventing loss of moisture through the leaves.
SGT Rock
12-03-2007, 20:57
Found this on the web so it must be true. You southerners probably grow up knowing this stuff, right?
I've seen it, but didn't know the temperature points this occurs at.
You can also catch a cricket and carry it around with you.
Count the number of chirps in 15 seconds. Add 40.
No need for a thermometer.
Just keep in mind that killing a cricket (even accidentally) is very bad luck. So be careful out there.
mkmangold
12-03-2007, 21:05
I have a cigarette lighter (for my alcohol stove BTW) which has a thermometer built into the top. When I first bought it, I thought it was a compass and man, did I get lost!
SGT Rock
12-03-2007, 21:05
So if you count then add 40 to get the temp, how do you know if it is below 40?
You cant start counting if you don't have a cricket.
If its below 40* you wont find a cricket.
Therefore, you hypothetical situation will never come up.
SGT Rock
12-03-2007, 21:12
Yes, but above 40 I normally don't care either ;)
Found this on the web so it must be true. You southerners probably grow up knowing this stuff, right?I have a book that describes it as when Rhodo leaves are wrapped tight like cigars the temperature is below 20 deg F.
greentick
12-05-2007, 02:02
...I carry one for now because I am testing out the limits of my system before I go thru-hiking. I also use it as an anti-snivel meter. If I start thinking about how cold it is and how I wish I were warmer - I can look at it and see it is only 35F and that isn't really that cold. Then I stop sniveling.
Dude, I'll send ya a tab to rub when you get cold.:D
SGT Rock
12-05-2007, 09:37
I never earned one of those. I think that is part of how that system works.
Dances with Mice
12-05-2007, 10:32
There's a thermometer on my Polar Pur bottle.
But they hid it where guy will ever see it, next to the directions.
Dances with Mice
12-05-2007, 10:33
There's a thermometer on my Polar Pur bottle.
But they hid it where guy will ever see it, next to the directions.
But they hid it where NO guy will ever see it ...
johnny quest
12-05-2007, 10:46
im using my thermometer (actually two) alot now as i test gear and sleepign system. by the time i'm on the trail i will hopefully have all that worked out and a thermometer will take on, as rock has alluded, more of the role of affectation or hobby. not a damn thing wrong with that if you want to hump the weight. ive never used one but one of those little mini weather stations might be cool to play with on your hike...if your interested in such.
i will carry my traildrop, for its alarm, clock, compass and thermometer functions.
Fiddleback
12-05-2007, 10:50
Some of my southern relatives do the same thing as the rhododendron leaves...around 35F they start to curl and shrivel...:rolleyes:
FB
Winter is here. 12" of snow on the ground and 10F this morning on the walk to work. I hope it is still around when I finish marking exams and get to do some skiing or trudging. When the river freezes over I plan on doiing a 2-3 day/night ski up the Kennebecasis. To pack light enough to ski comfortably I can't be prepared for the most extreme, and if I break a ski it gets real slow, but as the Rock said a drive home is never that far away on such a trek. For a long trudge I like to drag a sled and don't cover so much ground, but at least I am prepared to trudge or wait out the worst of it. Both are fun.
In both cases a thermometer are useful. When cross-country skiing it tells me what wax to use, and also whether or not I should seriously start to think about bailing out. It's very important not to bonk when skiing in the very cold also. When trudging it tells me just how bad it is getting and if I should start to conserve energy or hunker down, or if I am just being as wimp.
pure_mahem
12-06-2007, 20:50
You cant start counting if you don't have a cricket.
If its below 40* you wont find a cricket.
Therefore, you hypothetical situation will never come up.
So if you are carrying the cricket and the temp goes from 50 to 38 the cricket just disapears? Does it reapear when it's 45 the next morning? lol:D
copythat
12-11-2007, 00:27
auto-resetting min-max (and current)
http://www.rei.com/product/761489
more durable than the cricket, cheaper than that cool brunton thing, doesn't weigh too much more than the 2 aaa's it uses, and it reads to the minus-teens, so it beats the coghlan hands down. :)
but it's ssllooww to react.
mkmangold
12-17-2007, 00:53
Our crickets die out at the first frost. Around here, if it's snowing big flakes, it is 32-35 deg F. If the snow crunches when I walk on it, it's around 20 deg. If my nostrils freeze together when I inhale, it's below 15 deg. If it's 15 deg or below, I'm headed somewhere warm anyway.
With the ten years I lived in the Colorado high country, If the snow "squeeks" when you walk on it, it's real cold LOL.
ofthearth
12-22-2007, 15:06
As I posted, I'm not really gung ho on the above mini-max. Besides the time lag and questionable accuracy (+/- 5° according to the manual) the lower limit is 14°F. Shoot! My backyard has already been down to 17° this month and I'm only a couple hundred feet higher than Missoula. So...
I went searching again and found the Extech 39240 Waterproof Thermometer at http://www.ambientweather.com/ex39wath.html . It looks awkward for backpacking but it's only 6" long and, at .7oz, less than half the weight of the one I have. Its range is -40 - 392°F (good for testing those alky stoves...). It's in stock at the above url for $19 but has a whopping $9 shipping charge to my western Montana location. Gotta do some more searching to beat that S&H...
FB
Did you try the Extech 39240 Waterproof Thermometer and did work? Any other suggestions?
tia
ofthearth
ofthearth
12-22-2007, 16:01
Fiddleback --
sorry about the above post. As I read on I saw where you thought the thing worked out. Another question though after reading the whole thread. Someone mentions the La Crosse Outdoor Window Thermometer http://www.rei.com/product/761489 . Have you tried that one in your quest for the perfect min/max?
Thanks
Fiddleback
12-22-2007, 21:02
ofthearth --
The Extech 39240 is a great thermometer, except...
As it turns out, its auto shut off feature (~5 min) also shuts off the mini-max reading. In other words, the thermometer won't provide a record of mini and max temps throughout the night. So it's not the trail thermometer I'm looking for but I have got a lot of use out of it. It's perfect for testing soda can stove and cozy performance, studying how foods reconstitute in merely hot water as opposed to minutes of boiling, etc. If you're not interested in a mini-max function the Extech is a pretty decent thermometer. I've left it outside for days in pretty cold and snowy weather and the battery kept working and the water seal remained tight.
I've not checked out the LaCrosse but probably will sometime. I wish its low extreme went below -13F but, in practicality, I don't expect to hit that low on the trail. One fault I can see is that it would be hard to read at night...it probably would need a backlight to make the digits readable.
Anybody else tried the LaCrosse window thermometer?
I bought a mini thermometer/hygrometer. It shows minimum and maximum temps/humidity, has a reset button, and is only 2" by 1 1/2" .
http://www.energyefficientsolutions.com/hygrot.asp
The Old Fhart
12-26-2007, 10:57
Montego-"With the ten years I lived in the Colorado high country, If the snow "squeeks" when you walk on it, it's real cold LOL."Snow starts to "squeak" at about +15°F, slightly cool, not cold yet.;)
If boiling water instantly freezes when it is thrown into the air like in this video clip (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CC3DUwseZn8) from the Mount Washington Observatory at -22°F/75+MPH winds, you better have every inch of your body covered and protected.:eek:
max patch
12-26-2007, 11:08
Snow starts to "squeak" at about +15°F, slightly cool, not cold yet.;)
If boiling water instantly freezes when it is thrown into the air like in this video clip (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CC3DUwseZn8) from the Mount Washington Observatory at -22°F/75+MPH winds, you better have every inch of your body covered and protected.:eek:
Thats incredible.
4eyedbuzzard
12-26-2007, 11:13
I remember the 30/30/30 warning from many years ago:
If it's -30F, and the wind is blowing 30 mph, exposed skin freezes in 30 seconds.:eek: