Great to see you back online Nick! Yep, Alton Goods is a great business here in Australia. Their warranties are the best of all hiking gear - lifetime. The new bug mesh tent is a total winner, and their tarps are excellent. The chair... like you I've never considered it in the past. But - with all this new lightweight stuff I've got everything in my bag at less than 2kg (tarp, bug tent, sleeping bag, sleep mat, fitted sheet...!)... so, a chair is a luxury I can now afford, weight wise. I'm 55 and nights under the stars are so much more comfortable with a chair - I even make a little table with a few nails I take with me and just split some sawn wood for the top. So much better than scrabbling around on the ground. I also carry a poncho so I can make a secondary shelter under cover with my chair and table with the fire. I had a stupid night where i walked in - over four hours. Set everything up, lit a fire, had dinner and fell asleep in the chair... all night!
I'm an expat (Scot), from the highlands. I now live in Brisbane, where Alton kit is made and I have some of their products in my kit bag. Their hammock and tarp is as good as anything I've had from the big names out there. I have D&D and Hennessy hammocks and tarps as well as a couple of other non branded sets and I have to say that the Alton gear is my favourite. I've camped the length and breadth of Scotland, England and Wales, summer and winter (under my old Basha) and I'm pleased to say that the Alton kit would stand up to UK conditions just fine. The weather here is much harsher than the UK, wind and rain here is monsoonal; I was out in a storm once where we got approx' 150mm of rain in less than an hour and I was warm and dry under their tarp and in the hammock. I hope you like your new kit and I'm keen to see future reviews.
@@christurner68 It is indeed 👍 Prototypes are first designed and created in a facility in OZ, then it’s over to China to produce to meet demand . A common path for brands nowdays 🤷♂️
@@NickGoldsmith776 G’day Nick, I’m not bagging the products as I have them myself. Just setting things straight that the products are made in China. As you noticed very well presented and packaged products and that what sets it apart from the other chinese made product here in Australia. Sam and the rest of the Alton team have made the difference by great packing and presentation, even the the great field book for the product. This is the difference that people remember.
@@NickGoldsmith776 made in China to meet demand? No. Made in China to maximise profit margins. Because there is ZERO margin to be made if you're making gear in Western nations.
That bathtub ground sheet looks great as long as it doesn't get poked. Even when hammocking it would be great for keeping your pack and other gear off the bare ground. We get a lot of rain here and something like that would be ideal.
Would take a chair .......some would say I'd take the kitchen sink ! Each to their own . Thanks for posting, great vid . Looking forward to seeing you putting them to use . 👍
I have their tarp, and it is the best tarp I've ever had! I've used it in the traditional sense, as a poncho in pouring rain, to sleep on, to sleep in, as a sun shade, a backpack cover and more - it's SO tiny when folded up, it lives in my car at all times!
As an Aussie vet, I have various Alton kit amongst my bush craft gear. Very popular down under and good quality also. They also do the ultralight under quilt also for the hammock. Great to see your videos again mate👍. I even bought a Bergan and had it send down under to try out after watching one of your videos.
Great to see you back on UA-cam Nick. Although I am currently disabled, a wheelchair user, I have a two year plan, with my new hips, to begin adventure training with a view to climbing Kilimanjaro, and up to Base Camp on Everest. Your videos are going to be immensely useful to me.
I use Alton Goods here in Australia. I go to the Victorian High Country and its never let me down yet. With the weight saved the chair weight and size fits easy in the pack
NIck, never heard of Alton before and will be really interested in your reviews. The chair is a pretty common design and Alpkit in the UK do exactly the same chair for a really good price. I have 2 and they have never let me down to date - unless you put them down on soft ground where the rear legs sink in and you end up with your brew all over you as you disappear backwards! I have seen people put old cut tennis balls over the end of the legs to stop this happening.
The bug net for the hammock is great too plus you can get a stuff sack so that the hammock and the bug net pack away together and unpack super easy. The bath ground mat is used with their sleep pad and rectangular bug net for ground sleeping.
Nick, I followed your other UA-cam channel, Hidden Valley Bushcraft, and thoroughly enjoyed your content. When you took your hiatus from that channel, it was understandable (though I was a tad disappointed). And now I have stumbled across your new UA-cam channel (at least, I think it is new), and it has brought a smile to my face. Thanks for all your efforts.
Great to see you back Nick, with the longer form vids. I take a chair very similar to that one only if I take my 3x3 tarp. Smaller tarp, I just take a garden kneeling pad to sit on (also gives form to backpack when stuffed down the back).
Ive got a heap of the Alton gear, everything you got and much more. Its great gear, lightweight, holds up to a fair bit of abuse and looks awesome. Cant reocmmend the Alton gear enough 👍
Alton (a.k.a. Alton Goods for the old timers) is fast becoming Australia's most revered and well known gear for anything ultralight and quality. I've had the tarp for years and it's hands down rock solid quality. The ground sheet is compact and does what's its supposed to do well. The lifetime guarantee speaks for itself. It's like Christmas for you getting all this gear. Enjoy!
I've got a couple of little chairs like the Alton one - I worried a lot about their weight capacity when I first got them, but a few years in, I just jump into them. It's always fun watching people testing them for the first time though! Fab things - maybe not for all as you say, but if you are cycle/ motorcycle camping, I think they're a no brainer. Looking forward to seeing the new channel grow 👍
Excellent review of legendary Alton gear! The hammock you have Nick, is usually paired with its very own bug net, and also especially important for cold climates, a specifically designed under quilt, to stop chilly draughts. I love and regularly use Alton products, especially the tarp. It’s exciting seeing you in the UK reviewing our well loved Australian gear! I hope they serve you as fabulously as they do us in the land of Oz! Stay shiny and go further 😉
I was taking a chair even in the 1980s. They have just improved so much. After serving in the military as a paratrooper my knees love a chair. I don’t understand why some people are against being comfortable. I like my camp to be as comfortable as I can manage. Carrying weight on a hike always sucks. So a few pounds that bring me comfort at the end is worth it in my opinion.
Taking a chair out backpacking I probably would not take it because there are plenty of natural places to set. Leisurely camping I probably would take it out in the field. I just missed the live stream. Excellent video, thank you
Hey! Great to see you back on UA-cam! Didn't know you hade another channel.This was the first video I stumble upon. Now I'll have a look at what I've missed!
Nice to see you back Nick. I watch Scotty’s gone Walkabout on UA-cam and he’s always championed Alton gear nice to see how it holds up here in the UK 🇬🇧
The text on the bottom of the cup is for that bear to read while you're taking your very last zip of morning coffee. I do like that tarp as well, and that booklet. They should hire you for their tutorials.
I have the One Tigris version of that chair and (at 60+) it is a great thing to have. Along with a BCB Crusader brew kit, it goes in a 20ltr pack no problem with plenty of extra room and, you can stop anywhere for a brew and sit comfortably when there isn't otherwise anything to lean against. The only issue I have found is on softer ground the legs can dig in leaving the foot behind in a deep hole. I might get around to gluing my feet on but trying to dig them out does offer some entertainment while waiting for the water to boil.
I use my lidl special camping chair for £11 that's holds my 20 stone and it looks near identical to that alton chair, the lidl one has a ground sheet for the legs to slot in , I want a helinox Sahara or a similar one from helinox as Im a big guy and the weight limit is a big factor for me when it comes to chairs, cots and hammocks as I motorcycle camp a few times a year on trips with mates across wales and UK and after 10 or 12 hours riding off road or onroad a good chair to relax in is a must have lol
I have the 3x3 tarp, bathtub groundsheet, bugnet, -10C top quilt and -5C underquilt, drybag/inflator. All excellent kit. I use the top quilt on my bed over winter and the tarp ovwr my Helsdon Hammock. Really good value; not cheap but buy once, cry once and the quality remains long after the price is forgotten. I do take a chair and have a few I choose from. They are light and can hold up to 150kg (I'm now 129kg but was 162kg) and at 61 I not onlyneed a chair, I deserve one!
Produced a hell of a lot of content , put in time energy , fuel and kit - for 2 years straight and never turned a penny in a so called partnership ….spoke up wasn’t taken seriously so walked away 🤷♂️
@@NickGoldsmith776 ah the joys of partnerships. Never good to hear that but great to see you back out and about, looking forward to your informative content. Ps I picked up one of the modular sleep systems after you video of the arctic bag, why doesn't the liner tie into the light bag? Is it because they don't think people would need it if using it in warmer Temps? I use it so I can wash it not the bag helps keep it that little bit cleaner
I think I speak for a lot of people here when I say that I never considered taking a chair to my off grid camp, but I am now absolutely sold on the idea mate! I guess its like a lot things ... bin bags, gaffer tape, paracord, surgical gloves, balaclava, formaldehyde, crossbow, cable ties, and 5-10 litres of bleach ..... its better to have them and not need them, than need them and not have them.
I used to just bring a sit mat, but I've got older and appreciate somewhere raised to sit. I used an entrenching tool as a combi seat-poo-shovel, but not long ago got the DD stool. Really light and only £15
Nice gucci kit. The bathtub groundsheet is something I've never considered when bivvying or for keeping kit in a hammock. All over the idea now. Nice one.
My interest is in motorcycle camping, so there are many crossover products with hiking equipment like the ones shown here. On a motorcycle you want to travel light, but you can still carry things like chairs which you wouldn’t want to carry on your back. Tents are probably a better option than hammocks too, but the tarp can have many uses, like giving you a dry place to cook and eat, plus cover your bike or belongings overnight.
Nick, taking a chair is something I would take for a static couple of days out but not for a through hike. I would be interested in how strong the fittings are as I have seen the "plastic" fittings split when the user sits in the chair under the strain! Looking forward to seeing the in-depth reviews of the Aussie kit. Those will generate some questions and comments!
I've had some Alton gear for a while now. The tarp is brilliant, my groundsheet has lasted well and my titanium grill is very good. Looking forward to seeing you put it through it's paces.
Great video Nick.. Glad to see you back doing content.. Regards chairs.. Yes as I'm in my 50s and not built for the floor anymore... Its nice to see a chair capable of seating a real British ex military size bloke.. The book looks great too. Also enjoyed your new Fantastic book.. My wife's now reading it after me.
Im very much anticipating the testing videos. The bathtub groundsheet looks like a great place to keep your gear dry during a storm. The chair, to me, would be a comfort item. Im interested to know how your back feels after a night in the hammock as well. Great video as always! ❤️🔥🤘
Have you gents tried lying diagonally in hammocks? I used to be an avid hammock camper until I moved and it's just not done over here. If you angle your body in the hammock to lie across the axis you often get a flatter lie and better sleep.
Hi Nick, nice kit!! On the camp chair issue, I always take my lightweight chair, (very similar design but mine is the Helikon Tex Range Chair) as I have a bad back and utterly rubbish knees! It is the best possible way to save myself a lot of discomfort and agro once camp is set up. I also, due to the aforesaid knee issues, no longer trek any great distance, so I am either getting closer by vehicle first, or more usually its on a solo canoe trip. I can't always ensure the environment will provide me with the materials to build a chair, so this option guarantees comfort at the end of a day paddling. They have their place in Bushcraft and outdoors pursuits, but if I was thirty years younger and fitter, would go ultra light and not bother. Looking forward to seeing how the other kit stands up to the great British climate!!😊
I go with ultralight gear, not so I can have a lower base weight, but so that I can have more comfort at camp. That means I'm packing a thicker mat, nicer foods, few beers and yes, a chair is definitely part of my kit.
I got into hammock camping on the cheap I mean dirt cheap till I brought one Alton’s mosquito and sand fly net best thing in my kit and the most I spent on my setup but money well spent I’ll be up grading to more of their products as I save up for them can really recommend their gear love it
picked up a camp chair by ascend. which is same shape as the alton you just showed. their frame design is different. you have a swivel point in the middle of the cross framing underneath. have found it too be un steady & a bit wobbly.
I think the chair although might not be for some if foot bound, but if vehicle based or bike based whether motorised or pedal powered or assisted could well be a useful item.
I bought an UL helios chair, went hiking in the alps with it, wasn't worth the 500g and the space. Did an 11 day hike after, left it behind. Then hiked across sweden for 2 weeks, left it behind. It's good for day trips, picnics, fishing, finding a spot to camp for a while, but not serious multi day hikes.
Great kit, I've got the tarp, bathtub floor, sleeping pads and it's all been fantastic quality gear. Definitely looking at a hammock at some point in the near future, but for now I'll ground camp with the tarp. Great equipment, very reasonable prices here in Australia too I think.
Nice and informative! Happy to have you back on UA-cam 😊 I really like your book, and your inspiring life story! What happened to the Hidden Valley Bushcraft YT Channel?
Worked very hard for two years to bring content out weekly and sadly never made so much as a single penny to cover cost of fuel , equipment, time etc . Spoke up , wasn’t listened to. At the two year mark called it a day a walked away 🤷♂️
@@NickGoldsmith776 no worries mate glad to see your well and back its your fault i started my own modest channel many thanks for what you do, best wishes to you and your loved ones ,,,,,mick
Scotty (Scotty's Gone Walkabouts, a cracking channel) seems to rate their stuff, which isn't a bad recommendation. All we need now is a UK distributer, Nick... Hint hint...
All of it is for sale on the open market Nick, no need to order from Australia, I am a bit surprised that you haven't come across those folding chairs before, there everywhere, and they are reasonably comfortable, but a bit weighty if it's the steel frame not ally. As for a ground sheet I find the old issue IPK sheet is unbeatable, been using them for decade's and highly recommended if you can find one. All the best to you and your family.
I didn't realize you had a second channel! I was just thinking the other day that I missed your videos from your other channel. I hope you're doing well Royal!
As I use a DD superlight tarp and make a tent out of it the bath tub base would be a perfect addition to it. And did I miss you mention the weight of the chair???
Hooray! Your back! Since watching you in the beginning, my bushcrafting skills have improved greatly. Managed to secure a piece of land to practice my skills. All the best👍🏾🇬🇧🪵⛺️
As I've got older and stiffer I've started using the Helikon ground zero which is very light and compact or a simple OEX folding stool, both great. There must be a Nick Goldsmith outdoor hiking/camping guide on the cards at some point?
Hope the new channel gets bigger and bigger Nick you deserve it. Thought I'd get the tarp guide from Alton. £8.00, not bad p & p £21.00. Didn't bother.
I would take a chair if I'm travelling to a destination with a base. However, if setting off on foot and remaining more locally, I will bring a sit mat.
Delighted to have seen you on YT today, Nick. You’re looking and sounding in top form 😎👌 Nice gear review. Have you seen the creepy crawlies in Australia?…. They’d have no prob scaling those tub sides 😱🤪
Great video thanks Nick. Not a paid ad, but Alton is generally great quality, and they give good customer service. Have had the tarp (x2) for some time, versatile, reliable kit. The groundsheet is good, but the paired bug net, based on military one, is too small. (yes the clips are for the net). They now have a newer triangular version that is akin to a tent inner. Nylon tie outs and pegs are reliable. The air mattresses are both excellent, a "lighter" one for warm weather and other insulated, R rating 4, holds up well at about zero C, as cold as it gets in mountains west of Sydney. My faithful enamel cup will do me, too much of a tight arse to justify titanium anything. Have had a DD hammock forever, but when that dies will go to Alton.
Great to see you back online Nick! Yep, Alton Goods is a great business here in Australia. Their warranties are the best of all hiking gear - lifetime. The new bug mesh tent is a total winner, and their tarps are excellent. The chair... like you I've never considered it in the past. But - with all this new lightweight stuff I've got everything in my bag at less than 2kg (tarp, bug tent, sleeping bag, sleep mat, fitted sheet...!)... so, a chair is a luxury I can now afford, weight wise. I'm 55 and nights under the stars are so much more comfortable with a chair - I even make a little table with a few nails I take with me and just split some sawn wood for the top. So much better than scrabbling around on the ground. I also carry a poncho so I can make a secondary shelter under cover with my chair and table with the fire. I had a stupid night where i walked in - over four hours. Set everything up, lit a fire, had dinner and fell asleep in the chair... all night!
I'm an expat (Scot), from the highlands. I now live in Brisbane, where Alton kit is made and I have some of their products in my kit bag. Their hammock and tarp is as good as anything I've had from the big names out there. I have D&D and Hennessy hammocks and tarps as well as a couple of other non branded sets and I have to say that the Alton gear is my favourite. I've camped the length and breadth of Scotland, England and Wales, summer and winter (under my old Basha) and I'm pleased to say that the Alton kit would stand up to UK conditions just fine. The weather here is much harsher than the UK, wind and rain here is monsoonal; I was out in a storm once where we got approx' 150mm of rain in less than an hour and I was warm and dry under their tarp and in the hammock. I hope you like your new kit and I'm keen to see future reviews.
👍👍
Made in china mate👍
@@christurner68 It is indeed 👍
Prototypes are first designed and created in a facility in OZ, then it’s over to China to produce to meet demand .
A common path for brands nowdays 🤷♂️
@@NickGoldsmith776 G’day Nick, I’m not bagging the products as I have them myself. Just setting things straight that the products are made in China. As you noticed very well presented and packaged products and that what sets it apart from the other chinese made product here in Australia. Sam and the rest of the Alton team have made the difference by great packing and presentation, even the the great field book for the product. This is the difference that people remember.
@@NickGoldsmith776 made in China to meet demand? No. Made in China to maximise profit margins. Because there is ZERO margin to be made if you're making gear in Western nations.
I never thought I'd be in favour of taking a chair backpacking, but as I've gotten older and less nimble the appeal is growing on me.
That bathtub ground sheet looks great as long as it doesn't get poked. Even when hammocking it would be great for keeping your pack and other gear off the bare ground. We get a lot of rain here and something like that would be ideal.
me too, but i like to ground myself on the...... ground.
@@LoreTunderin i usually take a little tyvek footprint to go under things as thin as that.
Nighthawk bucketseat in the main Bergen lol, bucket has many uses over a dedicated seat imo.
Would take a chair .......some would say I'd take the kitchen sink !
Each to their own .
Thanks for posting, great vid . Looking forward to seeing you putting them to use . 👍
Looking forward to seeing the individual items reviewed.
I have their tarp, and it is the best tarp I've ever had! I've used it in the traditional sense, as a poncho in pouring rain, to sleep on, to sleep in, as a sun shade, a backpack cover and more - it's SO tiny when folded up, it lives in my car at all times!
😂👌
As an Aussie vet, I have various Alton kit amongst my bush craft gear. Very popular down under and good quality also. They also do the ultralight under quilt also for the hammock. Great to see your videos again mate👍. I even bought a Bergan and had it send down under to try out after watching one of your videos.
👍😎
Great to see you back on UA-cam Nick.
Although I am currently disabled, a wheelchair user, I have a two year plan, with my new hips, to begin adventure training with a view to climbing Kilimanjaro, and up to Base Camp on Everest. Your videos are going to be immensely useful to me.
🤝
I use Alton Goods here in Australia. I go to the Victorian High Country and its never let me down yet. With the weight saved the chair weight and size fits easy in the pack
👏👏
Look forward to in-depth tests of each. Good job so far, though, sir. And good to see ‘full-length’ content back. Thank you!
👍
NIck, never heard of Alton before and will be really interested in your reviews. The chair is a pretty common design and Alpkit in the UK do exactly the same chair for a really good price. I have 2 and they have never let me down to date - unless you put them down on soft ground where the rear legs sink in and you end up with your brew all over you as you disappear backwards! I have seen people put old cut tennis balls over the end of the legs to stop this happening.
Great tip! Thanks for sharing !
Alton also has an elegant solution to this if you check their website.
The bug net for the hammock is great too plus you can get a stuff sack so that the hammock and the bug net pack away together and unpack super easy.
The bath ground mat is used with their sleep pad and rectangular bug net for ground sleeping.
Ok 👌
Great video Nick, it was a pleasure working with you to make it. See you on the next one!
🤜🤛
Watching Royal assemble a camp chair! Content GOLD 😁
😝👏
Nick, I followed your other UA-cam channel, Hidden Valley Bushcraft, and thoroughly enjoyed your content. When you took your hiatus from that channel, it was understandable (though I was a tad disappointed). And now I have stumbled across your new UA-cam channel (at least, I think it is new), and it has brought a smile to my face. Thanks for all your efforts.
I’m here now 🤝
Great to see you back Nick, with the longer form vids. I take a chair very similar to that one only if I take my 3x3 tarp. Smaller tarp, I just take a garden kneeling pad to sit on (also gives form to backpack when stuffed down the back).
👏👏👏
Looking forward to the field tests, looks good kit, and I’m a sucker for the shiny stuff 😉- great vid Nick, brilliant to see you back 👍
Thankyou and Thankyou
Nice one Nick. They also do a bug tent , small,but stops the crawlies getting in👍
Rito
Ive got a heap of the Alton gear, everything you got and much more. Its great gear, lightweight, holds up to a fair bit of abuse and looks awesome. Cant reocmmend the Alton gear enough 👍
👌
Alton (a.k.a. Alton Goods for the old timers) is fast becoming Australia's most revered and well known gear for anything ultralight and quality. I've had the tarp for years and it's hands down rock solid quality. The ground sheet is compact and does what's its supposed to do well. The lifetime guarantee speaks for itself. It's like Christmas for you getting all this gear. Enjoy!
👍
👏
I've got a couple of little chairs like the Alton one - I worried a lot about their weight capacity when I first got them, but a few years in, I just jump into them. It's always fun watching people testing them for the first time though! Fab things - maybe not for all as you say, but if you are cycle/ motorcycle camping, I think they're a no brainer. Looking forward to seeing the new channel grow 👍
👍👍👍👍
👍👍👍👍
Great Video and Channel! Any chance of maybe doing a product review on our Firestarter?
Excellent review of legendary Alton gear! The hammock you have Nick, is usually paired with its very own bug net, and also especially important for cold climates, a specifically designed under quilt, to stop chilly draughts. I love and regularly use Alton products, especially the tarp. It’s exciting seeing you in the UK reviewing our well loved Australian gear! I hope they serve you as fabulously as they do us in the land of Oz! Stay shiny and go further 😉
🙌
I was taking a chair even in the 1980s. They have just improved so much. After serving in the military as a paratrooper my knees love a chair. I don’t understand why some people are against being comfortable. I like my camp to be as comfortable as I can manage. Carrying weight on a hike always sucks. So a few pounds that bring me comfort at the end is worth it in my opinion.
☺️👍
Great to see you back Nick, look forward to seeing these products being tested
👍
Taking a chair out backpacking I probably would not take it because there are plenty of natural places to set. Leisurely camping I probably would take it out in the field. I just missed the live stream. Excellent video, thank you
🤝
This gear is absolutely fine, we just turn it the right way up…….gday.
🤣🤣
Fascinating getting a UK perspective on the best Aussie hiking gear brand 👍😆
👍
Really enjoyed seeing a Sunday morning video once again! Cheers mate from Central PA mountains in the USA 🇺🇸…..
Appreciate that 🤝
Hey! Great to see you back on UA-cam! Didn't know you hade another channel.This was the first video I stumble upon. Now I'll have a look at what I've missed!
🎉
Nice to see you back Nick. I watch Scotty’s gone Walkabout on UA-cam and he’s always championed Alton gear nice to see how it holds up here in the UK 🇬🇧
👌🤝
The text on the bottom of the cup is for that bear to read while you're taking your very last zip of morning coffee.
I do like that tarp as well, and that booklet. They should hire you for their tutorials.
🤷♂️ Good idea 👍
Mention it to them
I have the One Tigris version of that chair and (at 60+) it is a great thing to have. Along with a BCB Crusader brew kit, it goes in a 20ltr pack no problem with plenty of extra room and, you can stop anywhere for a brew and sit comfortably when there isn't otherwise anything to lean against. The only issue I have found is on softer ground the legs can dig in leaving the foot behind in a deep hole. I might get around to gluing my feet on but trying to dig them out does offer some entertainment while waiting for the water to boil.
👍
I use my lidl special camping chair for £11 that's holds my 20 stone and it looks near identical to that alton chair, the lidl one has a ground sheet for the legs to slot in , I want a helinox Sahara or a similar one from helinox as Im a big guy and the weight limit is a big factor for me when it comes to chairs, cots and hammocks as I motorcycle camp a few times a year on trips with mates across wales and UK and after 10 or 12 hours riding off road or onroad a good chair to relax in is a must have lol
Thanks for this comments
I have the 3x3 tarp, bathtub groundsheet, bugnet, -10C top quilt and -5C underquilt, drybag/inflator. All excellent kit. I use the top quilt on my bed over winter and the tarp ovwr my Helsdon Hammock. Really good value; not cheap but buy once, cry once and the quality remains long after the price is forgotten. I do take a chair and have a few I choose from. They are light and can hold up to 150kg (I'm now 129kg but was 162kg) and at 61 I not onlyneed a chair, I deserve one!
You do deserve one indeed ☺️
@@NickGoldsmith776 Good to see you're back, Boot. I was in the Australian Army '78 to '85, We missed your content.
@@fatmanfaffing4116 🤝
Nice to see you back Nick, looking forward to the field tests .Hope you and the family are all fit and well
All steady here with big things on horizon
Hi Nick, great to have you back on the net, missed watching your videos, what happened to hidden valley? Anyway have subscribed to your new channel
Produced a hell of a lot of content , put in time energy , fuel and kit - for 2 years straight and never turned a penny in a so called partnership ….spoke up wasn’t taken seriously so walked away 🤷♂️
@@NickGoldsmith776 ah the joys of partnerships. Never good to hear that but great to see you back out and about, looking forward to your informative content. Ps I picked up one of the modular sleep systems after you video of the arctic bag, why doesn't the liner tie into the light bag? Is it because they don't think people would need it if using it in warmer Temps? I use it so I can wash it not the bag helps keep it that little bit cleaner
Happy to see you back, I have enjoyed your Hidden Valley videos. Best to you and family.
Thanks Sean
We loved working with you on this vid can wait to finish the rest!!
🤝
Great to have you back Nick . Looking forward to your honest, no nonsense reviews of gear and your bushcraft tips
I think I speak for a lot of people here when I say that I never considered taking a chair to my off grid camp, but I am now absolutely sold on the idea mate!
I guess its like a lot things ... bin bags, gaffer tape, paracord, surgical gloves, balaclava, formaldehyde, crossbow, cable ties, and 5-10 litres of bleach ..... its better to have them and not need them, than need them and not have them.
😂👍
I used to just bring a sit mat, but I've got older and appreciate somewhere raised to sit. I used an entrenching tool as a combi seat-poo-shovel, but not long ago got the DD stool. Really light and only £15
🔥🤝
Nice gucci kit. The bathtub groundsheet is something I've never considered when bivvying or for keeping kit in a hammock. All over the idea now. Nice one.
🙌
Excellent nervous face Nick!! Loved it
😊😂
Looks amazing kit but I find chairs can sink in soft ground will defo look Into alton stuff in the future
👍
My interest is in motorcycle camping, so there are many crossover products with hiking equipment like the ones shown here.
On a motorcycle you want to travel light, but you can still carry things like chairs which you wouldn’t want to carry on your back.
Tents are probably a better option than hammocks too, but the tarp can have many uses, like giving you a dry place to cook and eat, plus cover your bike or belongings overnight.
🤝
Thoroughly enjoyed your video. Came here after searching Alton, glad you popped up. Now a subscriber.
🤝
I love how you looked at all the stuff and definitely missed your videos Nick! Looking forward to the item breakdown videos!
🤜🤛
Well well well… Nick putting up a ridge line, once again! Welcome back, sir. So good to see ya.
🤝
Welcome back nick great to see you haven't given up on bushcrafting online 👍👍👍
👍
Nick, taking a chair is something I would take for a static couple of days out but not for a through hike.
I would be interested in how strong the fittings are as I have seen the "plastic" fittings split when the user sits in the chair under the strain!
Looking forward to seeing the in-depth reviews of the Aussie kit. Those will generate some questions and comments!
👍👍👍👍
I've had some Alton gear for a while now. The tarp is brilliant, my groundsheet has lasted well and my titanium grill is very good. Looking forward to seeing you put it through it's paces.
Great to hear!
6:30 in the upcoming review video, looking forward to honest constructive criticism.
i.e. what negatives have said lightweight material... thanks
💯
I also have the Alton tarp and groundsheet.
They have worked well in Aussie wet weather.
Thanks for this feedback 🙌🙌
👍
👌
Nice to see you back mate with a lot of ideas about bushcraft and kit.
Keep it up mate.
👍👍
Alton makes awesome gear for those serious with outdoors adventures. Great vid!
🤝
Great video Nick.. Glad to see you back doing content.. Regards chairs.. Yes as I'm in my 50s and not built for the floor anymore... Its nice to see a chair capable of seating a real British ex military size bloke.. The book looks great too. Also enjoyed your new Fantastic book.. My wife's now reading it after me.
💪
Im very much anticipating the testing videos. The bathtub groundsheet looks like a great place to keep your gear dry during a storm. The chair, to me, would be a comfort item. Im interested to know how your back feels after a night in the hammock as well. Great video as always! ❤️🔥🤘
For me personally hammocks are ok for up to 2 nights on the bounce after which I get problems with my shoulder (rugby damage)
Have you gents tried lying diagonally in hammocks? I used to be an avid hammock camper until I moved and it's just not done over here. If you angle your body in the hammock to lie across the axis you often get a flatter lie and better sleep.
That's for posting this. Would love this tested in the field.
👍
Hi Nick, nice kit!! On the camp chair issue, I always take my lightweight chair, (very similar design but mine is the Helikon Tex Range Chair) as I have a bad back and utterly rubbish knees! It is the best possible way to save myself a lot of discomfort and agro once camp is set up. I also, due to the aforesaid knee issues, no longer trek any great distance, so I am either getting closer by vehicle first, or more usually its on a solo canoe trip. I can't always ensure the environment will provide me with the materials to build a chair, so this option guarantees comfort at the end of a day paddling. They have their place in Bushcraft and outdoors pursuits, but if I was thirty years younger and fitter, would go ultra light and not bother. Looking forward to seeing how the other kit stands up to the great British climate!!😊
🤞👍
I go with ultralight gear, not so I can have a lower base weight, but so that I can have more comfort at camp. That means I'm packing a thicker mat, nicer foods, few beers and yes, a chair is definitely part of my kit.
👍
I got into hammock camping on the cheap I mean dirt cheap till I brought one Alton’s mosquito and sand fly net best thing in my kit and the most I spent on my setup but money well spent I’ll be up grading to more of their products as I save up for them can really recommend their gear love it
It’s well made
Great that you are back Nick. I missed your great video's.
I can't wait to see the reviews.
Greets from holland
👍
At my age the additional chair is a god send for me .got a similar chair use it all the time
🙏
Great to see you back Nick. That chair was hilarious! Keep em coming mate. All the best. Clive. 😎
💡😊
Your new friend over the pond. 😀 I have sways been an Encourage.
👊
I have their hammock set and tarp. Havent regretted the purchase
Excellent
Great to see you back! Looking forward to future vids!
🙌
😎🤝
I subscribed to Hidden Valley in its last few weeks of activity and didn't know about this channel until now.
Thanks for finding me here 🙌
picked up a camp chair by ascend. which is same shape as the alton you just showed. their frame design is different. you have a swivel point in the middle of the cross framing underneath. have found it too be un steady & a bit wobbly.
👍
Can't wait for hidden valley bushcraft channel to come back.
It is currently not in my control anymore so don’t hold your breath.
Good to see you back on UA-cam. I really enjoy your videos even if it's all the way in Australia 🇦🇺
🤝
One tigris chairs take some beating. Tip start by putting the shorter limbs in the slots first. There's more give in the liner back struts.
Love this
Great vid Nick. Also great to see you back.
Slowly but surely - spread the word please 🙏
I think the chair although might not be for some if foot bound, but if vehicle based or bike based whether motorised or pedal powered or assisted could well be a useful item.
Agree
Fun unpacking a box of goodies, Nick, you looked like a kid in a candy store 😁
Felt like one
I bought an UL helios chair, went hiking in the alps with it, wasn't worth the 500g and the space. Did an 11 day hike after, left it behind. Then hiked across sweden for 2 weeks, left it behind. It's good for day trips, picnics, fishing, finding a spot to camp for a while, but not serious multi day hikes.
👏👏👏👏👏
Thanks for the review Nick, is it Australian made? I didn't think we made anything.
Lol from my conversation with them they have a prototype factory where designs come to life ,
but to make on mass much is shipped via the obvious 🇨🇳🙄
@@NickGoldsmith776 Thanks Nick. I thought that would be the case. I'm looking forward to see how it all stands up to your testing.
just back from a 4 day hike in the Rockies and took a chair..heavy, but was great around the fire. Respect from Canada.
👏👏🔥
Great kit, I've got the tarp, bathtub floor, sleeping pads and it's all been fantastic quality gear. Definitely looking at a hammock at some point in the near future, but for now I'll ground camp with the tarp. Great equipment, very reasonable prices here in Australia too I think.
👍👍
Nicely done on video!! That's a Awesome box of Good Stuff ! 🇺🇸🇺🇸🪓🔪👍👍
Certainly is !
Nice and informative! Happy to have you back on UA-cam 😊 I really like your book, and your inspiring life story!
What happened to the Hidden Valley Bushcraft YT Channel?
Worked very hard for two years to bring content out weekly and sadly never made so much as a single penny to cover cost of fuel , equipment, time etc .
Spoke up , wasn’t listened to.
At the two year mark called it a day a walked away 🤷♂️
I'd never take a chair with me in the woods, I prefer a sit pad or two. However I could see myself bringing one of those when j go fishing.
👏👏
nice nick great info good looking gear if a bit light for me
☺️ Thanks for this feedback
@@NickGoldsmith776 no worries mate glad to see your well and back its your fault i started my own modest channel many thanks for what you do, best wishes to you and your loved ones ,,,,,mick
Scotty (Scotty's Gone Walkabouts, a cracking channel) seems to rate their stuff, which isn't a bad recommendation. All we need now is a UK distributer, Nick... Hint hint...
Time will
Tell
Great video, Nick. I am looking forward to the field tests.
👍
I take an ultra light chair when motorcycle camping.
Might look at that hammock, mostly cause i'm in Aussie land
🤝
Nice to see you again, Nick. It seems that Christmas came faster... 😀Enjoy the products you received! 🤙
All of it is for sale on the open market Nick, no need to order from Australia, I am a bit surprised that you haven't come across those folding chairs before, there everywhere, and they are reasonably comfortable, but a bit weighty if it's the steel frame not ally. As for a ground sheet I find the old issue IPK sheet is unbeatable, been using them for decade's and highly recommended if you can find one. All the best to you and your family.
👍
The Fly looks like two army shelter individuals , joined together . old school
Interesting
I didn't realize you had a second channel! I was just thinking the other day that I missed your videos from your other channel. I hope you're doing well Royal!
🤝 Spread the word
As I use a DD superlight tarp and make a tent out of it the bath tub base would be a perfect addition to it.
And did I miss you mention the weight of the chair???
Not much to the chair at all! Very light
Hooray! Your back!
Since watching you in the beginning, my bushcrafting skills have improved greatly. Managed to secure a piece of land to practice my skills.
All the best👍🏾🇬🇧🪵⛺️
Standby for more content
@@NickGoldsmith776 Will do.👍🏾🇬🇧⛺️🪵
As I've got older and stiffer I've started using the Helikon ground zero which is very light and compact or a simple OEX folding stool, both great.
There must be a Nick Goldsmith outdoor hiking/camping guide on the cards at some point?
At some point 😉
@@NickGoldsmith776 it would be a great little book you can chuck in your pack.
Hope the new channel gets bigger and bigger Nick you deserve it. Thought I'd get the tarp guide from Alton. £8.00, not bad p & p £21.00. Didn't bother.
Ah yes I can see that being a snag ….
I would take a chair if I'm travelling to a destination with a base. However, if setting off on foot and remaining more locally, I will bring a sit mat.
Ok 👌
Delighted to have seen you on YT today, Nick. You’re looking and sounding in top form 😎👌 Nice gear review. Have you seen the creepy crawlies in Australia?…. They’d have no prob scaling those tub sides 😱🤪
I think there is an attachment that goes into the tub for that reason
@@NickGoldsmith776 ah yes, you mentioned a net. Clever system
Everything down here in Australia wants to bite or kill you 😂😂
Great video, thanks for sharing 👍
Thanks for watching!
@NickGoldsmith776 can't wait to see you test them out. Will you compare any of it against other stuff you use?
Thanks again 🫡
Used to take a chair as DS in the army and even an umbrella one time, just to wind people up 😂
😂
Great video thanks Nick. Not a paid ad, but Alton is generally great quality, and they give good customer service. Have had the tarp (x2) for some time, versatile, reliable kit. The groundsheet is good, but the paired bug net, based on military one, is too small. (yes the clips are for the net). They now have a newer triangular version that is akin to a tent inner. Nylon tie outs and pegs are reliable. The air mattresses are both excellent, a "lighter" one for warm weather and other insulated, R rating 4, holds up well at about zero C, as cold as it gets in mountains west of Sydney. My faithful enamel cup will do me, too much of a tight arse to justify titanium anything. Have had a DD hammock forever, but when that dies will go to Alton.
💪