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Understanding Boating Terms Easily | Your Go-To Guide

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The United States is home to some of the most scenic rivers and lakes. From oceans to lakes, creeks and estuaries, the U.S. is ripe for the picking when it comes to boating activities.

family boating

Boat Types You Should Know

Before we jump into other specific boating terms, lets get started learning some basic boat types.

Pleasure Craft

A pleasure craft is exactly what it implies – a vessel used for recreation. Common types include sport fishing boats, bow riders, yachts and inflatable boats.



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Personal Watercraft

man on jet ski

Power-Driven Craft

man fishing from motor boat in the fog


Human-Powered Craft

kayak fishing at dawn

These boats operate without any power and are propelled manually using a pedal, sail or foot pedals. Canoes, kayaks, and rowboats are categorized as human-powered craft. 



Now, On To The Boating Terms…

Familiarize yourself with this glossary of boating terms, and you’ll be on your way to becoming a more knowledgeable boater…

Astern

This refers to the area or location behind or toward the back of the boat or ship.

Beam

BEAM OF BOAT

Bow

BOW OF A BOAT


Bowline Knot and Bow

The bowline knot creates a loop at the end of a line. (This is not to be confused with a boat’s bow).

bowline knot

Draft

The distance between the waterline and the keel (lowest part of boat’s hull) of a boat; the minimum depth of water in which a boat will float.



Freeboard

BOW OF A BOAT

Hull

BOAT HULL

Helm

The steering wheel and controls are located at the helm. This is where the captain of the boat or ship operates from.

Keel

The lowest part of a boat’s hull, which provides strength, stability and sideways drift while in the water.




Navigation Light

These are all the lights on the boat that come into effect at night. Recreational boats are equipped with a stern light, masthead or anchor light, and sidelights. Powerboats, like pontoons, combine the stern light and masthead into a single anchor light.

Navigation lights have two functions – to make your boat visible at night and to indicate the right of way when two vessels approach each other.

PFD



Port

PORT AND STARBOARD1

Starboard

When facing the front of the boat, starboard is the right side (port is on the left).

Stern

boat stern

When facing the bow, the starboard side is the right side of the boat, marked by the green sidelight.

Transom

The transom of a boat is the cross-section of the stern. It is typically flat and serves the purpose of a support structure of the stern and barrier to water.



Trim

Trimming the engine entails it being moved up or down. The button is normally found on the throttle. There are two reasons to trim the engine.

Trimming the motor up to protect the lower unit from hitting the bottom is necessary in shallow water at low speed. You can also adjust the trim for optimal engine performance.

Underway

A boat is underway when it is not docked or anchored. Floating or drifting while using the motor would count as underway.



So, Now You Know Some Boating Terms…

wakesurfing behind boat

Be sure to educate yourself on all water rules in your state and get to know boating etiquette as well. Happy and safe boating… and have fun! 

 

people lined up at shooting range following shooting range rules

Stay Safe and Skilled: Shooting Range Rules To Follow

Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a novice, gun safety is paramount when operating a firearm. The rules of gun safety apply not only to real-life shooting situations, but also at the shooting range when practicing.

woman shooting at rifle range

Shooting range rules are instituted to ensure everyone’s safety, including the shooter and those around them. If these rules are not followed, there could be disastrous, and even fatal, consequences.

Shooting Range Rules You Should Know

There is more to shooting at a range than just knowing the the inner workings of a rifle, revolver or glock and whether it’s comfortable and accurate to shoot.

There are some fundamental firearm safety rules when visiting a shooting range. It’s your job to become familiar with them, as well as the others mandated by your local shooting range.

#1. Keep the Gun Pointed in a Safe Direction

This is a fundamental rule, yet some gun owners simply ignore it when on the shooting range. 

So, we’ll say it again… Always keep the firearm pointed in a safe direction!

shooting pistol at range

American Rifleman advises a safe direction would be pointing the gun towards the ground and away from yourself and others. Here’s where situational awareness takes precedence. Before even handling your firearm, consider the environment, because things can become complicated at an indoor or outdoor range. Once again, ask for assistance if unsure of a safe direction.

Note: Some ranges have rules on transporting weapons. Familiarize yourself with it so as not to contravene the regulations and your safety.



#2.  Treat All Firearms as if They Are Loaded

Don’t ever assume a gun is not loaded. Instead, treat every firearm as if it is loaded. It’s your responsibility to inspect the firearm while it’s your possession.

handgun on display

Most novices will try to work out a gun they’re unfamiliar with. Don’t attempt to do this.  If you’re unsure how to handle the gun, ask for assistance from staff members. Let them demonstrate the safe and correct use. 




#3. Trigger Discipline

This is an acquired skill that’s best taught in the shooting range

Trigger discipline is a state of mind. The shooter keeps their finger outside the trigger guard until ready to fire.

Practicing trigger discipline is one of the four essential rules of safe gun handling, advises the USCCA.

marine practicing trigger discipline

Your finger stays straight and alongside the gun frame when picking up, loading, reloading, and fixing malfunctions of a firearm. Only when you are ready to shoot can you move your finger from the indexed position.



#4. Be Sure of Your Target

Know exactly where you’re going to be shooting. With your target clearly in sight, only pull the trigger once you are confident the intended strike will not harm anyone or anything beyond the target.

best rifle caliber ammo




#5. Adhere to Commands by Shooting Range Staff

Range workers are versed in weapons and their safe use. Their job is to ensure everyone has a safe experience. So, listen to range instructors at all times to avoid breaking any rules.

Remember the golden rule: Their range, their laws. If they say you’ve compromised your safety and that of others, you could receive a ban or be asked to leave. When in doubt, ask for assistance.




Bonus Info On Gun Selection For The Range

When people get into learning about firearms and shooting, they often want to know what gun they should shoot. One recommendation can be the 2011 pistol. The Staccato 2011 is considered by many to be the most reliable 2011 pistol, as it’s known to be durable, reliable, and accurate, and is used by hundreds of law enforcement agencies in the U.S.

The gun’s popularity has increased in recent years, thanks in part to its role in the John Wick film series. The titular character Wick wields a heavily customized pistol in most scenes.

Ergonomics, increased capacity and less recoil make the 2011 a preferred choice for many gun owners, says Xtreme Guns & Ammo.



Final Thoughts On Shooting Range Rules

Gun ownership isn’t just about wanting to carry guns.

gun shooting bullet

Take the time to review your local shooting range’s rules and remember to always point your gun in a safe direction, treat every firearm as if it’s loaded, practice trigger discipline, be sure of your target, and adhere to all commands by instructors and staff.

Safe shooting!

 

hiking food ideas

Fuel Your Outdoor Adventure | Hiking Food Ideas

A successful hiking trip isn’t just about where you go and what gear you take. Packing proper food is also critical.

The food you pack should fulfill your nutritional and caloric requirements. But, it should also be practical for the outdoors.

woman hiker

Hiking Food Ideas

So, what makes for good hiking / backpacking food?

Well, in a nutshell, the best backpacking meals are:

  • Shelf-stable
  • Lightweight
  • Packed with nutrients
  • Minimal cooking required

The goal is to pack nutritious and convenient food that is either ready-to-eat or quick to prepare.

Below we’ll cover some top hiking food ideas to keep you fueled and satisfied on your journey.

Make-Ahead Meals

Preparing meals in advance is the best way to guarantee that you will always have filling, tasty food on hand.

If you’re camping, you can make your food at the campsite and just heat it up later. If you’re on a longer, more strenuous hike, this could be extremely useful, especially if you’re carrying lots of gear. For example, you may have a sleeping bag, survival items, and photography gear, like tripods and a camera harness (it would be a shame to not capture all that natural beauty around you!) Just heating up what you have prepped ahead of time will be much less taxing after a long hike than just heating it up.

stew for hiking

With this in mind, consider bringing foods you have cooled beforehand like:

  • Stews
  • Spaghetti
  • Chili

You can make these beforehand and reheat them over a campfire or portable stove.



Just Add Water Meals

just add water

“Just add water” meals are ideally convenient!

These lightweight choices are great for trekking. They are dehydrated or freeze-dried. You just need to:

  • Add boiling water
  • Wait a few minutes
  • Enjoy a healthy supper


Protein Packets

Protein packs can be a great food option for a hike. They are small, lightweight, and don’t need refrigeration. Some include:

  • Tuna
  • Chicken
  • Salmon

Chicken of the Sea Alaksan Pink Salmon in Spring Water, 5 Ounce Packets (Pack of 12), Wild Caught Salmon, Skinless & Boneless
$25.07

Great food for hiking and camping trips!

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Beef Jerky and Dried Meats

Hikers typically eat beef jerky and other dried meats while on the hiking trail.

These provide a quick source of protein and also do not need refrigeration. Whether you are in the middle of nowhere or paused to take a breathtaking photo, these snacks will help keep you going.



Cheese

Hard cheeses, in particular, are great for hiking, as they keep their flavor and are easy to carry around. Incorporate some tasty and nutritious cheese sticks or individual packets of cream cheese into your hiking diet and pair them with crackers or tortillas.

Granola and Energy Bars

Granola bars and energy bars are vital items for a hiking backpack because:

  • They are lightweight
  • They are calorie dense
  • They deliver a fast energy boost


Trail Mix and Nuts

Nuts and trail mix are excellent snacks to consume while hiking and are perfect for sustaining energy levels since they include:

  • Protein
  • Fat
  • Carbohydrates

Plus, they are easy to carry and eat on-the-go.


Nut Harvest, Trail Mix Variety Pack, 2.25 Ounce (Pack of 16)
$43.99
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Nut Butters

Nut butters, like peanut butter and almond butter, are high-calorie, protein-packed snacks that can be a great food for a hike.

Choose single-serving packages to conserve space. You can enjoy them straight from the package or with other things, like tortillas or apples.



Instant Oatmeal and Granola

Granola and instant oatmeal are great for a hiking breakfast or as a snack.

Granola can be eaten dry or with powdered milk. Oatmeal packets just need a cup of hot water. Both are simple to pack and prepare. This makes them great for refueling before setting out for your day’s adventure.



Powdered Hummus

Powdered hummus is a unique, protein-rich hiking meal.

Simply add water and it is ready to eat!

It is an excellent complement to tortillas and vegetables. This might be a convenient dinner alternative for your hike.


Helena Hummus, Shelf-stable, No added preservatives, Natural Classic 4.23 oz and Roasted Bell Pepper 4.23 oz (Pack of 4 Tripacks)
$38.28
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Tortillas

Tortillas are perfect for sandwiches and wraps. They are easy to fill and can include – cheese, meats, and nut butter – among other ingredients. They make a great quick lunch option when you need to take a break from a hike.

Dark Chocolate

Dark chocolate is a tasty treat that is high in antioxidants, and is a nutritious, carb-filled snack for your hike. Enjoy it as a treat after a hard day on the trail. You can store it in a ziploc bag, but it could be prone to melting in warm temperatures.



Coffee and Tea

Instant coffee and tea are vital for maintaining alertness on the route. They are simple to make with hot water and can provide a caffeine boost. If you like coffee, try a portable coffee press that can integrate with your cooking system for a fresh brew.

Instant Noodles and Pasta

Instant noodles and spaghetti are lightweight and easy-to-prepare foods to take on your hike. They are ideal for a substantial dinner after a day of hiking. Just boil water – add some noodles or pasta – and Voila! Add protein and veggies to infuse some flavor!



Instant Soup Packets

Instant soup packages are small and simple to make, and are an ideal comfort food on cold hikes. Simply add boiling water and you’ll have a satisfying cup of soup! They are perfect for unwinding after a day of trekking on the trails.



Final Thoughts On Hiking Food Ideas

man hiking in mountains with gear

Incorporating the above hiking foods will help you stay fueled and focus on your adventure.

Enjoy your hike and God’s great outdoors!