Back in July, I posted a blog about CSN Stores and how they were giving me a couple of items to test out. My first choice was the Flambeau Archery and Hunting Keeper, which is basically an organizer for the everyday archer.  

Flambeau Archery and Hunting Keeper

Originally I had been keeping all of my spare gear, tools and parts in an old tackle box. While it organized well, it was plastic, solid and noisy. It worked well, but the Flambeau Archery and Hunting Keeper worked even better. It is built from a synthetic canvas, so it is flexible and can be contorted to fit many shapes. It has two plastic snaps and a Velcro strap to keep it closed.

There are plenty of pockets inside to store small parts and tools. There are small pockets, large ones and even some elastic straps to put stuff in. Overall it is well built and has a good design. I was able to fit everything I needed to in it with some room left over.

The only issue I have with it is that the pockets on the smaller flaps aren’t sewn shut. So if you put some items in the pocket, they slip down to the pocket underneath. There are zippers for both pockets, but it is really just one pocket with two openings. I didn’t like that at all.

It works much better than my old tackle box, so I think I’ll stick with it and figure out a way to close up those pockets. I think this is a good product and will work for most archers.

Chef’sChoice Compact Diamond Hone Knife Sharpener

Lugging my electric knife sharpener on a backcountry hunt isn’t an option for obvious reasons. I have heard of many good knife sharpeners out there that hunters take with them to put an edge back on their blades when field dressing an animal. The Chef’sChoice Compact Diamond Hone Knife Sharpener is exactly what I needed.

When I first looked at the Chef’sChoice I wasn’t sure if it would stand up to what I needed it for. I have to say that this sharpener works great, and it’s inexpensive, light and works well. I took one of my old knives that had lost it’s edge and ran it through a few times. It put a nice edge back onto the blade. It wasn’t what it used to be, but in the field you will be happy just having a sharp edge. I was pleasantly surprised. 

The Chef’sChoice is also very lightweight and small to carry. Finding a spot in my pack was very easy. I just have to remember where I put it each time!

You do need to have a firm surface to hold against to properly use the sharpener. You can use a tree, rock, or even the ground. Simple to use, easy to use and perfect for the backcountry hunter.