#and then I have to be buying distilled water all the time the tanks not very big so I think that’s doable

[concoulor]

I can’t decide if it would be better to hope they adapt to my high ph or try and alter it

[onenicebugperday]

Hello! I have a garden snail that had lots of babies and was hoping for some advice please! :) I want to make their enclosure as comfy as possible for them but I don't know how. Do they prefer dark environments? Hidey holes? What kind of substrate is best? Etc. Thank you!

(I'm in Southern California)

Congrats on your snabies! Firstly I would not take any substrate or decor for the tank from outside unless you want a lot of hitchhiker creatures in your snail tank. If you do, you'll want to bake it first.

A standard 10 (or larger) gallon aquarium with a mesh lid works great, but you'll want to modify the lid to cover most of the mesh to keep the inside humid. I just bought a squeeze tube of silicone and attached some plastic sheeting inside the lid to cover about 75% of the mesh.

Substrate can be any sort of animal-safe soil-like substrate - so soils meant for bioactive reptile and amphibian enclosures or for isopods. Repti-soil, Creature Soil, organic potting mix, etc. I personally have my snails in with my millipedes, and use a combination of eco earth and Josh's Frogs milli mix - can't recommend milli mix enough! Josh's Frogs ABG mix or isopod substrate would also be appropriate.

No matter which soil you choose, it should be 4-5 inches deep both to hold humidity and for burrowing. 10 quarts will fill a 10 gallon aquarium to the proper depth.

As for decor, I would avoid rocks since snails WILL climb the glass and other decor and probably will fall off from time to time. Rocks can shatter their shells. I would stick to wood - any aquarium safe wood is fine. Cork bark, mopani, spider wood, etc. I'd also recommend some dry/dead reptile-type sphagnum moss to keep up humidity and for nibbling, and some kind of leaf litter - I buy bags of dry/brown live oak leaves on amazon for pretty cheap. My snails don't seem to hide in holes or crevices much - when they're not active, they mostly hang out on the lid or the top glass of the tank.

You do not need lighting or heating unless your house gets particularly cold in the winter - they may be less active if it's too cold. You can put a low watt reptile heating pad on the side of the tank to keep the temp up around 70+ if need be. They are primarily active at night, so if you want to see what they're up to, a small light that doesn't give off heat near the tank would be okay.

Most important is humidity. Get all of the substrate and moss damp as you put it into the tank with distilled water. I use a reptile mister bottle and buy gallons of distilled water at the grocery store. They last a long time so not a big investment. You'll also have to mist the whole enclosure probably daily, maybe twice daily. It should be moist and humid but not sopping wet. Don't let the substrate dry out entirely. Occasionally you may have to stick your finger into the soil to make sure it's staying damp under the surface.

And finally, snails need calcium for their shells! I occasionally dust the top of the substrate with powdered reptile calcium, or you can throw a cuttlebone in there for them to nibble on.

Here's a list of safe/not safe foods for snails.

If you ever have more questions about setup that I didn't answer here, feel free to IM me! Happy to share creature keeping tips.

[bitchfitch]

With your water quality issues and also you being an aquarist, have you considered a reverse osmosis unit? We got one for ~150 bucks that lives under the kitchen sink and hooks up to the sink spout. Big initial investment and kind of a hassle to set up each time you use it, but we have clean water for drinking and clean water for our frogs/aquariums. Also paid for itself pretty quickly since we weren’t buying distilled water every week for the critters.

I have, but unfortunately reverse osmosis water isn't great for a Lot of things. The water being completely clear of minerals and other misc dissolved solids makes it hypotonic, meaning that when drunk or used in a lot of tanks, it can draw necessary minerals and compounds out of the body. I already struggle with some hashtag Deficits, so adding RO to that would require extensive chemical and mineral treatments to be added to the water after filtration.

I am going to be installing a proper filtering system in the new place when i finally get around to it, but since I don't do coral tanks, RO would be way overkill and not at all safe for me or my animals.

[theblogs2024]

Israel-Hamas War most current: Civil buy 'breaking down' as 'Determined' Gazans break into aid warehouses

Rigorous battles are occurring on the ground, inside of a marked improve of Israeli strategies, claimed Middle East correspondent Alistair Bunkall. In the meantime, peacekeeping forces in Lebanon came underneath fire past night, the United Nations Interim Pressure in Lebanon has claimed.

Blinken in talks with Turkey's overseas minister above need to avoid distribute of conflict Top officials during the US are hectic with diplomatic talks now.

Antony Blinken is the most up-to-date to comment on his discussions, this time with Turkey.

"I spoke with Turkish international minister Hakan Fidan to discuss our initiatives to prevent the distribute in the Gaza conflict further more into your area," he writes in a post on X, previously Twitter.

He states they also discussed the release of hostages held by Hamas, and also the mobilisation of humanitarian help to Gaza.

First of all, the Israeli government has created it totally obvious they plan to dismantle Hamas next their brutal assault on seven October, and which they intend to achieve their goal by likely In the Hamas strongholds as well as their massive tunnel network.

Heunggu Petrochemical, the king of small-term arrests, showed a powerful surge in today's overview inventory!

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In 2022 alone, 158 objects operated, ninety two% batting normal / We will continue in 2023!

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We will allow you to attain the something you wish most.

They have reiterated towards the Israeli individuals this will probably be a probably prolonged and drawn-out campaign.

There is another important variance; Here is the deadliest on the 5 wars for both sides.

The thundering noise of Israeli artillery fired from positions in the vicinity of an overwatch location for the border preferred Along with the media is steady.

At nighttime, they’re firing into a completely black landscape, the energy is out in Gaza.

Because the explosions strike, the battered skyline of destroyed properties is lit up by an orange glow, in just seconds it returns to pitch black.

From time to time we could listen to the seem of equipment gun hearth and tanks relocating, that’s how close the battling is within the border.

Above us there is a constant hum of drones, and the shriek of Israeli jets relocating on for their following concentrate on.

Gaza is getting pummelled working day and night.

Structures in Gaza weakened by Israeli air strikes Buildings in Gaza harmed by Israeli air strikes

Our colleagues there say communication blackouts have created everyday living a lot more Frightening – a way of becoming Minimize off from the skin globe spreads throughout the inhabitants similar to a dark shadow of concern.

And from the opposite facet of the border, it seems absolutely cut off.

The Gaza wellness technique, now insufficient, is scarcely functioning. Every little thing that sustains everyday living is in short supply, or simply gone.

The lack of water and electricity exasperates that desperation, and all routes in and out of Gaza are shut.

I know the Gaza Strip pretty much after two decades of visits, but of course I have never lived there or been there knowing I could by no means leave.

That is a very distinctive psychological way of thinking that my good friends there were often type sufficient not to consistently indicate.

It truly is unattainable to estimate even remotely how long it will choose to return to almost any ‘standard’.

Get more info. here: 이스라엘전쟁

[sledclock17]

Exactly How To Dry Carpet After Cleansing.

20 Finest Cleaning Products, According To Specialist Cleansers

Content

Armstrong 330408 When 'N Done Concentrated Flooring Cleaner, 1.

See Some Photos Of Our Client'S Floors Prior To And Also After Our Professional Cleaning Process.

Unger Easyglide Soft Rubber.

Take Pleasure In Cleanser, Healthier, Protected Carpets With Our Business Carpet Cleaning Service.

Karcher Carpet Cleansers.

Review Of Bissell Big Eco-Friendly Deep Cleansing Maker.

Get rid of discolorations swiftly using spot stain eliminator or a carpeting cleaner accessory. Avoid leaving discolorations to settle in the carpeting since you think you can remove them later when you do your scheduled carpet cleaning. The discolorations will be more difficult to eliminate and also might remain in the carpet. The cleaning option that includes your carpeting cleaner is made to combine with water and clean your carpeting thoroughly without damaging it. The majority of carpets are pre-treated, yet you still require to clean them routinely with water and cleansing products to eradicate dirt and also dirt.

For sticky, oily discolorations like electric motor oil, food grease or lipstick, usage Hi-Traffic Pre-Treatment. Discolorations from food, ink, dust and unknown substances react well to Spot & Discoloration Eliminator.

Armstrong 330408 When 'N Done Concentrated Floor Cleaner, 1.

A top-notch rug heavy steam cleaner can get rid of around 97 percent of your rug. Even better, it reaches to the pile or lowest layer of the carpet, cleaning it completely. One have to likewise keep in mind that carpet cleaner leasings don't come with free cleaning services, so renters might require to buy the option each time. On the various other hand, rug cleansers are a single financial investment as well as one can get the carpeting hair shampoo by the bulk so in the long run, it's more affordable.

How can I clean my carpet without a machine?

Create a solution of one part distilled vinegar and three parts cold water. Spray it onto your carpet fairly liberally, and allow it a few minutes of contact time. Then take a microfibre cloth, and start gently blotting. Don't scrub, otherwise you could damage your carpet.

They did an excellent task, and also I'll be using them in future. Undergo this broad selection of brand-new, used, as well as manufacturer as well as seller reconditioned rug cleaners as well as youll discover a variety of popular brands available like Vax, BISSELL and also Kärcher. Typical alternatives include 4 in 1 multi practical wet and also dry vacuum cleaners, carpet washers and blowers and also pet formula cleaners. Theres a substantial series of carpet cleaners readily available on ebay.com appropriate for residences, autos, furniture and also also expert cleaning company such as auto valeting. Fill the reservoir of your Carpet Physician with hot water.

Do carpets get dirty faster after cleaning?

To save time, some carpet cleaners put the detergent into the cleaning solution being used. https://www.refin-ceramic-tiles.com/read-the-faq/what-is-the-best-way-to-clean-your-ceramic-tile-floors/ leaves a lot of the detergent on the carpet after the cleaning has been done. As a result, the carpet is sticky and attracts dust and other particles allowing the carpet to become dirty quickly after cleaning.

When dealing with pet dogs I can extremely suggest the BISSELL ProHeat 2X if you manage hard animal discolorations. With numerous pet attachments and features this cleaner receives the most effective pet dog carpeting cleaner now. The Hoover Powerdash Family pet is a great alternative if you desire an economical yet great carpet cleaning device. The drying out time differs, relying on the sort of rug you have and its thickness. Some rug cleaners aid with the drying procedure, while others take in dust.

Is steam cleaning bad for carpets?

The reality is that steam cleaning leaves your carpets sopping wet, which can damage your carpet over time. If not properly dried, sopping wet carpet fibers can ultimately lead to mold and mildew growth—something you don't want affecting your indoor air quality.

Extremely dirtied places ought to be pre-soaked and also the cleaning agent solution should saturate for 5 to 10 mins. The more delicate the surface the reduced the cleaning service focus must be. As a landlord, I have to have my home expertly cleansed between renters, as well as not satisfied with my previous carpet cleaners, I found Tidy That Carpeting. They lost no time at all in getting down to function, and also soon the carpets were pristine throughout.

The solution from beginning to end was extremely specialist however likewise kind and mindful to my requirements.

I had a water leakage that came via the ceiling and the refurbishment created dust all over and corrosion damage to a carpet I actually value.

I'm very amazed with The Carpet Cleaning Business.

I would most absolutely recommend this firm very.

Barry did a terrific job the other day on my 2 seater sofa and also carpetings.

For your rug, upholstery, patio, conservatory or home window cleansing look no further.

I had my 3 item suite cleansed also, the results were excellent, particularly the rug, which is of terrific nostalgic value to me.

See Some Pictures Of Our Customer'S Floors Before As Well As After Our Professional Cleaning Refine.

Tactically area box fans in the space after you've cleaned up the carpeting to assist the rug completely dry quicker. Many rugs will dry out completely after a few hrs after you have actually cleaned them. Bissell rules the carpet cleaning and vacuum markets, together with Hoover.

As well as, it is an excellent as well as flexible multi-purpose house cleanser too. Fortunately, there are a lot of top carpeting heavy steam cleaners that can give deep and competent carpet cleaning.

A number of them have a split container or more containers to keep the filthy water from infecting the clean water. A great deal of storage tanks also have actually a specially made spout to prevent spills when you put the water.

Nevertheless, you should take into consideration making use of professional cleansing options designed to deal with commercial carpet cleansers for finest results. Keep in mind that Walmart does not lease typical vacuum cleaners. You can, nonetheless, also rent out carpet cleansers from other shops; see our related articles for the expense to lease a carpet cleaner at each shop and the very best rental carpet cleaning equipment. We likewise detail how to rent Carpet Physician rug cleansers from the majority of Albertsons grocery storesor Safeway grocery stores. While hoover can work wonders, a rug cleaner will certainly obtain the persistent discolorations and dirt out of your carpets when they need an extensive tidy.

Unger Easyglide Soft Rubber.

There are also some models that actually mix the cleaning agent, so you obtain the best water-to-formula ratio each time. These rug cleansers are additionally substantial and also big, so you have to have a vehicle that allows enough to move the device to and fro to the store. Plus, you can't quickly attend to spots before they embed in like you can when you have a carpet cleaner. For all the problem you have to go through, you only get to rent the cleaner for a day or two.

Vapor Device services do a disservice to specialist carpet cleaners. The tools utilized is typically are not of expert top quality and also typically has been mistreated, used and dirty. The product made use of in the devices are dust attracters and also usually cleaning agent and also soap based. Rental companies recommend that you use a specific kind of cleaning solution with their vapor cleaners. For instance, a business might make one sort of cleaner for furniture and one more one with a more powerful concentration for rugs.

Do it yourself carpet cleaning is a simple and also budget friendly task for homes of all budget plans and also skill levels. Whether learn more by visiting this page clean up areas & stains or periodically clean all the carpetings in your home, possessing a carpet cleanser has guaranteed advantages.

Besides, it is just one of the closest things that specialist house and also carpet heavy steam cleansers use. As well as, it is suitable for individuals who cleanse their indoor area usually and have a great deal of area to cover.

I am 75 cleaned every type of carpet on the marketplace over the years, with my own services. Now have this lovely carpet cleaning maker of my own and the days of scrub brush as well as container more than. Have my own dish, it works, my rug are tidy, fresh, spots remain gone and also the carpet does not have any kind of film left on it from any type of item.

Everybody's always seeking good carpeting cleaners, however exist solutions that will do steam cleansing of hardwood or laminate floor covering? I've never seen any kind of businesses similar to this in my location ... they all simply do carpeting and also upholstery. We 'd suggest the exact same testing for any new solutions as in the previous answer. A lot of carpeting cleansers function vigorously to eliminate spots. Vacuum your carpeting one or two times a week, depending on just how much website traffic it receives.

Take Pleasure In Cleanser, Healthier, Protected Carpets With Our Industrial Carpet Cleaning Service.

Pick a time to cleanse the carpeting when it can be left untouched later on for hours. Constantly vacuum the rug thoroughly prior to utilizing the carpet cleaner. Warm water up to an optimum of 50 levels Celsius will increase the cleaning effect.

Karcher Carpeting Cleansers.

Amazing as well as it just cost me about $5.00 for the 3 room house as well as my time. Sorry but I can not say anything regarding your web page yet you are pressing your services.

The cleansing service will spray right into the carpeting, and afterwards suck back up again into the dirty water tank. Though some spots are almost difficult to get rid of completely, pretreating helps to boost even the dirtiest carpeting. Rug Medical professional suggests utilizing their products to pretreat spots.

The maker suggests adding 1/2 cup of Carpet Medical professional Carpet Cleaner to the water for the dirtiest rugs, or 1/4 mug of Carpeting Cleaner if your carpets are only gently dirtied. Turn the equipment on, and also start gradually walking backwards across the carpet, pulling the Carpet Medical professional from one side of the room to the other. On gently dirtied Floor Wizards , the maker suggests relocating at a speed of one foot per second, but very filthy carpetings need a slower speed of one foot every 2 seconds.

If you are seeking an exceptional heavy steam device that cleans up targeted dust as well as discolorations successfully, opt for the McCulloch MC1275. With its efficient spot cleaning proficiency and power, you will no doubt love this leading rug steam cleanser.

According to the Bissell internet site, the business offers upright, mobile, and cylinder carpet cleaners. Bissell additionally offers substitute parts, accessories for all their existing machines, and also some older versions. You'll find anything for your carpet cleaning needs from Bissell. While some people do make use of homemade cleaning services for specialist rug cleaners, there is no warranty of excellent outcomes with DIY recipes. Rug Doctor does not require tenants of its devices to utilize its cleansing option items, so you are complimentary to utilize various other items.

Why does carpet smell worse after cleaning?

The leading cause for a bad-smelling carpet after cleaning is that the carpet backing absorbed some of the moisture in the process and is still wet. If not dried properly, the underlying material becomes susceptible to mildew problems, which can cause the musty smell.

Testimonial Of Bissell Big Eco-Friendly Deep Cleaning Machine.

Treat family pet crashes as well as various other physical liquid stains with Urine Eliminator. Spray the suitable treatment onto your carpeting's filthy spots, and also allow the formula take in for numerous mins while you ready the Carpet Doctor machine for cleansing. Residential carpet cleansers are less complicated than ever before to make use of.

[brendamariesmith]

What TO Stock for An APOCALYPSE, PART TWO (Updated)

Far and away the most important thing you’ll need in order to keep yourselves and your loved ones alive is WATER. Here are some ideas of where to find it and/or how to clean and store it.

  2. CISTERNS and/or STORAGE TANKS: According to Wikipedia, a cistern is a waterproof receptacle for holding liquids, and is often built to catch and store rainwater. They date back to the fourth millennium BC. This Portuguese cistern in Morocco is an extraordinary work of art.

Cisterns can hold as little as a hundred gallons or they can be large underground lakes. They’ve been in use for millennia, especially in desert areas and for dry-land farming. Here are some ancient water-capture sites used by the Nabataeans around the city of Petra. Store the water when it rains, use it when it doesn’t. That’s the principle.

In my novel, the protagonist Bea has a secret underground cistern, built under a suburban back yard. It’s fed by rainwater from the house’s roof, captured by a guttering system, and filtered through rocks and sand on its way into the underground tank where it’s stored. The water is accessed with a hand pump hidden in a closet in the garage. Something along these lines:

    The cistern pictured above is a lined cement tank, but Bea’s cistern is a 10,000-gallon fiberglass job. Her tank is underground, but you can have a decent cistern above ground, too. They’re often seen on farms. It’s not always possible or practical to build underground, although cisterns below surface are more well-hidden and less vulnerable to bullet holes from apocalyptic shoot-outs.

  3.  WATER FILTRATION SYSTEMS. Your water has to be cleaned from chemical contaminants in the air and from bacteria or molds in the ponds, creeks, and ditches where you gather it. Also, general dirt and debris have to be filtered out from water gathered in those places or from the rainwater runoff from your roof.

  You can clean water by filtering it through charcoal, so add a giant stash of that to your stockpiling list. You don’t want to have to make your own charcoal. It takes too many trees that you’ll need for shade, windbreaks, firewood, and wildlife habitat. Those squirrels you’ll be eating will need a home. The practice of making charcoal from scratch has denuded the forests for much of the nation of Haiti.

  You can strain your water through cheesecloth (better get a stash of that, too) and then kill the germs and mold with drops of bleach – really tiny drops, no more than half a teaspoon per eight gallons (if you can get eight gallons at one time) – then let the water sit for a half hour or more. There are pills you can buy with iodine in them that you can add to water, but it would take an awful lot of them to use for a big group of people and/or a lifetime supply. And there’s a low-tech water filtration system you can buy called a Berkey filter that’s supposed to be particularly good for getting rid of bacteria and other killer germs. https://www.berkeyfilters.com/

      Water is serious business, and I am by no means an expert. Read up on it. https://www.outdoorlife.com/photos/gallery/2015/01/survival-skills-10-ways-purify-water and/or http://all-about-water-filters.com/great-ways-how-to-purify-water-for-drinking/

  Boiling and straining water is a good way to go, if you have the means.

        In Mindy McGinnis’s novel, NOT A DROP TO DRINK, the characters have a pond they’ve guarded for years. They have a system to let sunlight purify water on big metal trays. Read the book to get a better understanding of how it works. It’s a very good book. You will enjoy it.

      4. DESALINIZATION SYSTEMS could be very important for those who live near seawater. Be sure this equipment will work without electricity, since you aren’t likely to have any. And you should be careful about living too close to the ocean these days, what with the rising sea levels and all. Find some high ground near the coast and set up a pulley or skid system for transporting the water to your front door, or your cave, or your lean-to. Be prepared to flee from hurricanes and storm surges.

        The above systems are supposed to desalinate water, and most of them also filter out germs and other stuff that can make you sick. They’re portable to varying degrees and work without electricity. Here’s where I found them online if you want to know more: http://all-about-water-filters.com/best-portable-desalination-kits/

  To see how my unlikely apocalyptic hero, seventy-year-old Bea Crenshaw, shepherds her grandkids and neighbors through the aftermath of a solar pulse, check out IF DARKNESS TAKES US on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Darkness-Takes-Brenda-Marie-Smith-ebook/dp/B07WK9BQHN or order it from your favorite indie bookstore:

The sequel, IF THE LIGHT SHOULD COME, will be out June 2021 from SFK Press.

   STAY TUNED FOR FUTURE INSTALLMENTS OF “WHAT TO STOCK FOR AN APOCALYPSE.”

NEXT UP: FOOD

[lightworkscompendium]

The Truth on Japanese Fighting Fish and Their Care

You say Alpha, I say Betta!

    There's a general myth among people that bettas are incredibly easy to take care of and require very little space in order to thrive. Some even go so far as to say that bettas will thrive in a vase coupled with flowers, as the flowers will suck up the fish's dirty water and the fish will nibble on the flowers' stems. These general myths are, in spite of their popularity, largely inaccurate. 

In many of these cases, an improperly sized aquarium and improper care will result in the premature death of the betta. As with all new pets, it's best to do extensive research before adopting a new life into your household, as to ensure you know precisely what is going to be needed for it. This article will go over incorrect myths associated with bettas, their enclosures, and how to properly take care of these gorgeous fighting fish.

I Reject Your Reality and Substitute My Own

     Let's pretend for a moment that we're the Mythbusters as we go through this list of common misconceptions about bettas and their care.

    1. Bettas thrive in small bowls and don't need a filter, heater, or plants.

    Ideally, a betta should be placed in a tank that is at least FIVE gallons or more! It's certainly a lot more than what a simple bowl purchased at the pet store would be able to hold. In addition to that, it's essential that the betta also has filtration in the tank as well as a heater. Bettas are a tropical fish, meaning that the temperature of their tank must be maintained at around 76~81 degrees Fahrenheit.   

    Filters, meanwhile, are necessary for assisting with the breakdown of ammonia and nitrite, which can become toxic to fish in general when the concentrations in the tank become too high. They likewise aid in the creation of beneficial bacteria in the tank as the water is circulated continuously. These beneficial bacterium will, as the 'beneficial' part of it suggests, be helpful to your betta and keep them healthier longer. You can think of it in a similar way to when we ingest yogurt, which is filled with beneficial probiotics.

   It's never a bad idea to include some live plants in the tank on top of these other necessities, as bettas often feel most comfortable when they're able to hide themselves amongst foliage. A happy betta is one that will also live longer! There are many varieties of live plants that would be suitable for a betta that can be bought at almost any pet store. The care of aquatic plants, in and of itself, tends to be fairly minimal and they often thrive quite well so long as they're able to get a bit of sunlight.

    2. Bettas do not need to be fed if plants are present in the water.

    In all truth, bettas are fully carnivorous fish, meaning that they do not eat plants as part of their diet. In the wild, bettas most often eat insects that have landed in the water where they reside. Most commonly in our beloved household variety, a pellet form of food or flake will be the most beneficial. It's not a bad thing to, on occasion, give them brine shrimp or bloodworms as a 'treat'. Even fish can enjoy treats from time to time!

    Be wary of over-feeding, however. Over-feeding is a large cause in the death of bettas, as opposed to under-feeding. When feeding pellet foods, it's best to give only two to six pellets per day! With bloodworms and brine shrimp on the other hand, only one or two would be a good amount and this should be done only once a week. A betta's stomach is only about the size of one of its eyes, meaning they can only fit so much in there before it becomes unhealthy for them. If a bulge is beginning to form along the betta's sides, it's time to cut back on the food a bit. Obesity in bettas can have as many health complications as it can for any other living creature.

    3. Bettas thrive in unclean, shallow-water conditions, as their natural environment is dirty mud puddles.

    That's not actually the case at all, in spite of popular misconceptions. The waters that bettas live in aren't actually muddy, but instead are stained a 'muddy' color by plant debris. Further, while it's true that the waters they reside in are indeed shallow, they're also very expansive. Bettas do not live in 'puddles' typically, but in rice paddies and streams that provide a great deal of room for them to live and explore. The ‘dirty puddle’ concept also comes from the knowledge that, during the dry summer months where there’s less water around, bettas will live in shallow puddles as a temporary home until the rains bring back their usual territory. Emphasis on the temporary part!

    With this in mind, it is necessary for you to regularly change the water in your betta's tank. Bettas are highly sensitive to the quality of water they reside in. Should the pH and hardness go off balance, one can anticipate that the fish's fins will begin to deteriorate in response. Bettas’ fins are not particularly well circulated, which makes them prone to bacterial infections. This is all the more likely to happen when left in unclean conditions.

    4. Bettas are inactive fish.

    Contrarily, bettas are actually highly active and highly intelligent fish. In the right conditions, bettas will naturally search about their tank with great curiosity and act very lively. Bettas that are laying down constantly or are inactive are likely too cold, or sick.

A How-To For Caring For Your Betta

    So we've gone over some of the myths that, due to their wide-spread reach amongst people and pet stores, have inadvertently caused more than a few bettas to die earlier than they should've. Was some of it surprising to you? Now that we've cleared up a few of those misconceptions, we can go straight ahead into the best ways to care for your betta.

Picking a Tank and Filter.

     If you're using a bowl or tank under 2.5 gallons currently, now's a good time to bid it adieu! An ideal tank should be between 5 ~ 10 gallons, but a 2.5 gallon tank can be reasoned with to a degree. Generally speaking, the larger the tank, the better it will be for the fish, as it will help negate the harmful effects of ammonia buildup on top of giving the betta plenty of space to explore. The tank you pick should ideally have a filter that isn't too strong, but will still adequately circulate the water throughout the expanse of the tank.

   2. Picking a Heater

    Picking out the perfect heater is less of a trial, as most pet stores will carry heaters that are labeled for a specific gallon range. It can be helpful to use a heater that is pre-set to turn off and on at certain temperatures, as this will ensure that your tank is regularly in the range that is needed for your betta to thrive.

  3. Decorations and Plants

    Bettas love to hide in foliage and anywhere else they can manage to explore! When such an environment is provided for them, they will generally be much happier in their new home, which will likewise help keep them healthier longer. Just like with people!

    Some decorations that are best for bettas include the following:

• Moss balls – Also known as Marimos.

• Floating logs.

• Live aquarium plants.

• A sinking ceramic log.

• A Betta Hammock.

• Gravel for the bottom of the tank.

    It should be noted that when seeking out decorations for your betta, you want to ensure you do not pick out anything that has potentially sharp edges. Decorations containing sharp edges are liable to rip the betta's fins, which leaves them exposed to potential bacterial infections.

    In addition, for the enrichment of your betta's life, it can even be beneficial to sometimes put a ping-pong ball in to float at the surface of the water. The betta will chase after it and entertain itself with the ball, giving it the stimulation that it needs. Bettas are highly intelligent fish and need stimulation from their environment. Without stimulation or things to explore in their tanks, bettas are actually quite prone to becoming depressed – very similar to humans!

Cycling and Introduction to the Tank

    Now that you have an idea of what the tank should look like and what it needs in order to keep your betta happy, you're ready to get everything set up for the introduction of your betta into the new tank.

    Before putting in any decorations, it's important to rinse each piece off – including the gravel – before placing it into the tank for use. This is to help wash off any dust or other debris that might contaminate the tank with unhealthy pollutants. Thereafter, you can put in your gravel and arrange your decorations in whatever fashion seems the most aesthetically appealing to you. Try not to over-crowd the tank with decorations, as the betta still needs space to swim around.

    When adding water to the tank thereafter, it's important to note what kind of water you're using. Tap water contains chemicals, such as chlorine, which will be toxic to your betta even in low quantities. Distilled water, meanwhile, lacks vital minerals that the betta needs in order to survive. The best option to go with is bottled water; although, if this option is unavailable, tap water can be used so long as it's conditioned. Many pet stores sell water conditioner, which will sufficiently remove chlorine and other harmful chemicals from the water.

    Once you've added the water and, if needed, conditioned it, you can begin the process of cycling.

    Cycling is a necessary process with all new aquariums, as they help to establish beneficial bacteria colonies. Without these beneficial bacteria colonies being well established in the tank, it's not unlikely that any fish you buy will end up passing away prematurely from ammonia toxicity. So, before you switch tanks or go out and buy your new betta, it's necessary to do a little prep work beforehand!

    One of the most common cycling methods is to introduce a small bit of fish food to the tank, allowing it to settle at the bottom. Uneaten fish food will cause ammonia levels to spike in the tank, which prompts the growth of beneficial bacteria and starts the cycle off. After a few days, the ammonia levels will begin to decrease as the bacteria eats away at it.

    This, however, creates a byproduct from the bacteria called nitrite, which is also highly toxic to aquatic life. Given a few more days, a secondary colony of beneficial bacteria will begin to grow and break down the nitrites into nitrates, a chemical byproduct that is far less toxic. This process can take several days' time and it's recommended to check the chemical levels in the water before introducing any fish. This is to ensure that the aquarium has finished cycling properly. Most pet stores carry test strips, but for more accurate results it can be good to buy a liquid tester.

    In this method of creating your bacteria colonies, you will want to do a large tank change of about 90% of the water, as rotting food at the bottom of the tank can also create bacteria that is less beneficial in nature. A full water change will help remove this bad bacteria while still retaining the good bacteria colonies previously established.

    Alternative to this method, “seeding” your aquarium is another option for establishing beneficial bacteria colonies. Seeding is typically when you borrow a used filter from another tank and place it into the new tank that doesn't yet have any beneficial bacteria growing in it. As the beneficial bacteria is already present in the filter from the 'donor' tank, it will be able to cycle throughout the tank much faster. In this method, you can introduce your betta immediately to the tank.

    One other commonly recommended method would be to buy aquarium bacteria from the pet store. Bottled bacteria can be stored for about a year and can be used to kick-start your aquarium – but it doesn't necessarily make it safe for you to immediately introduce your betta into the tank. Let it cycle for a day or so and test the water before introducing your fish into the water.

Introducing Your Betta to its’ New Home

    The time has finally come! You can finally introduce your betta to its’ new home, but there's a little bit more to it than just opening up the container it comes in and dumping it on in. In fact, doing that can actually cause a very real problem called shock, which can happen due to sudden temperature changes and differences in water quality. This can make your betta very ill and can be potentially fatal.

    When introducing your betta to its’ tank, it's far better to do it slowly and gradually, rather than all at once. While your betta is still in its bag or container, you'll want to float it at the surface of the tank, allowing it to stay there for 15 ~ 20 minutes; longer if the temperature difference between the water is extreme. This is to assist in acclimating the betta to the temperature of the water gradually, as the water surrounding the bag or cup will slowly warm the water inside.

    Once acclimated to the temperature of the tank, it's then time to begin gradually introducing water into the bag or cup to begin acclimating to the tank's pH level. In intervals of about five minutes, add a small amount of the aquarium water to the betta's water. Repeat this process until the bag or cup is full, wait another five minutes, and then allow your betta to swim free! At this point, you've successfully set up and acclimated your betta into its’ new, roomy and comfortable habitat!

Sources:

Why Betta Bowls are Bad

Bettas Need More Than Bowls

How to Take Care of Your Betta

How Often Do You Need to Feed a Betta Fish?

Tiny Mud Puddles and Other Lies

Aquarium Nitrogen Cycle and Cycling a Fish Tank

Top Ten Betta Toys

Do Betta Fish Get Depressed?

Betta Fish Acclimation

How Bettas Handle Temperature Flunctuation

New Arrival Acclimation Guide

--

Want to become a beta reader and fellow researcher of a variety of interesting and unusual topics? Send an ask or direct message!

This article was reviewed and edited by @mysteriousmukuro, 10-7-19

[tenleaguesbeneath]

I think if I were making a logistical space game (which I might hack SWN into more of), I wouldn’t gloss over what your ship uses for energy. For instance:

Obsolete (can be made on lower-tech worlds)

Solar-chemical (e.g. solar panels charging hydrogen fuel cells) extremely limited endurance outside of the inner solar system. Not capable of combat maneuvering or launching from a planetary surface without single-use boosters

Nuclear Fission Considered obsolete because of the expense of sourcing fissile material. Capable of delivering every bit as much power as a fusion reactor but with much more expensive fuel. Some reactors (especially those designed for use in vehicles) are sealed and cannot have more fuel added after construction

Standard

Deuterium Fusion the gold standard in starship engines. Fuel can be enriched from water using powerful and elaborate centrifuges

Helium 3 Fusion Requires dedicated fuel mines, but gets more usable power and less radioactivity from the same mass of fuel

Dual-Mode Fusion capable of operating both with and without helium 3; somewhat more expensive

Antimatter requires extremely expensive fuel; highly energy dense but expensive enough as to be impractical

Advanced (if this is a postapocalypse, these can’t be made anymore)

Proton Fusion can use all the hydrogen in a given sample of water for fuel instead of requiring enrichment to produce deuterium (requiring only distillation and electrolysis; most ships carrying these reactors have those facilities attached or have them integral to the reactor)

Gravitic Singularity Generator even more advanced. Uses gravitic manipulation to convert fuel into a microscopic black hole and extract power from the emitted Hawking radiation. Can use literally any matter for fuel, in principle (some implementations of the device may have limitations in what inputs will be allowed), with near-100% (E=mc^2) conversion efficiency (at least compared to fusion, which struggles to meet its 3% theoretical efficiency)

Zero-Point Reactor The existence of the fabric of space-time itself has an intrinsic energy to it. By converting a small volume of spacetime from existence to nonexistence the zero-point reactor extracts this energy. The pinnacle of power generation, this device need carry no fuel whatsoever so long as it remains in the space-time continuum.

If I were working this over to Stars without Number, the Obsolete power sources would be TL 3, the Standard sources TL 4, although the infrastructure to generate substantial amounts of antimatter would be TL 4+, the proton and gravitic power sources TL 5, and the ZPR would probably be TL 6; I don’t see that being standard tech in the Mandate anywhere. Maybe some super-finicky zero-point reactor ships were made for special military purposes, comparable to stealth bombers today; maybe some aliens had them once, whatever.

Maybe gravitic would be TL 6 too. The jump between proton fusion where you have to worry about how much fuel you’re carrying and gravitic power where you get like 30-50 times as much power out of a given mass of hydrogen or 200-500 times from water (molecular hydrogen can leak through any tank made of atoms which are substantially larger than a hydrogen atom, so under some circumstances it can be better to store your hydrogen as a compound. methane is best, but water is cheap) is much bigger than the jump between gravitic (use anything for fuel) to zero-point (use nothing for fuel)

Another interesting option would be to make ZPE a lower-tech power source somehow (which still means TL 5 pretech), but have it be completely nonfunctional during spike drills, as the reactions to consume metadimensional space are not possible with a standard ZPE reactor. though admittedly, without more play with the hazards of metadimensional space, you just need a battery that can power the ship and drive for the known duration of the drill.

Although, if I were running and writing this, rather than, like, having a large menu of different power sources, I’d have a “these are the rules for your ships’ reactor” handout for the first ship players get, and when they get access to a shipyard and funds to buy a new ship, they might have a very short menu of what the shipyard’s suppliers can provide, with every reactor being finicky in some way that gives the GM potential complications to throw.

[myartofhealthyliving]

How to use an oxygen concentrator?

An oxygen concentrator uses the air nearby to filter oxygen and is the best solution for oxygen supply at home. Required for individuals facing respiratory issues, a concentrator can provide oxygen for hours at a time and does not need to be replaced or refilled with anything. Once you know the right way to use an oxygen concentrator, you can help any individual with oxygen supplementation. An important point to remember is that supplemental oxygen is always prescribed and should always be advised by a doctor.

To use an oxygen concentrator, one must first know it’s importance and functions.

1. What is an oxygen concentrator? How does it work?

An oxygen concentrator machine filters oxygen from the atmosphere and helps individuals access it through a mask or cannula. The atmospheric air consists of about 21% oxygen, 78% nitrogen, and then other gases. The oxygen concentrator works by absorbing air from the surroundings and filtering out nitrogen and other gases. The absorbed oxygen is stored in a cylinder to be inhaled by the user.

2. When should we use an oxygen concentrator?

The use of an Oxygen Concentrator is advised only when an individual needs supplemental oxygen due to low oxygen level in the blood. This should not be self-diagnosed and must be determined by a qualified medical professional. The medical professional will monitor your blood oxygen levels, possibly using a device known as Pulse Oximeter. If they notice that your SpO2, or Oxygen Saturation, is below 95%, they might recommend supplemental oxygen. The professional will also mention how frequently or for how long you need to administer supplemental Oxygen. Even after you have been prescribed supplemental oxygen, you need to determine whether you need an oxygen concentrator or an oxygen cylinder.

3. What is the best oxygen concentrator for at-home usage?

A stationary oxygen concentrator is perfect for at-home usage. Individuals who require constant oxygen supply while sleeping or resting will need an oxygen concentrator as per the prescribed supplemental oxygen by a medical professional. The oxygen concentrator needs to be plugged in at all times and will need a power backup in case of power outages. Before using the oxygen from the concentrator, the individual must know the flow rate of oxygen required for him/her and it should be mentioned by the medical professional.

4. Where should I place the oxygen concentrator?

An oxygen concentrator can be kept anywhere inside the house; but while operating, it should be kept one feet away from the walls, bed, sofa and any other object that may obstruct the machine. There should be 1-2 ft. of vacant space around the air-inlet of the oxygen concentrator as the compressor inside the machine needs space to take in sufficient amounts of room air which will be concentrated to pure Oxygen inside the machine. If enough gap is not provided for the air intake, the machine won't be able to take in sufficient amounts of ambient air to provide sufficient oxygen.

5. What's the difference between an oxygen cylinder and oxygen concentrator?

Oxygen concentrators and oxygen cylinders are designed to deliver oxygen therapy to patients who aren’t able to get the desired amount of oxygen on their own. Oxygen concentrators dispense oxygen in almost the same way that oxygen tanks do, delivering oxygen directly to the patient via a nasal cannula or an oxygen mask. The difference is that oxygen tanks contain a fixed amount of pressurized oxygen while concentrators collect oxygen from the surrounding air, concentrate it, and then deliver it to the patient, removing the need for replacement or refilling.

6. How do I set up an oxygen concentrator?

Step 1:

Position the concentrator 1 to 2 feet from the wall and furniture. In addition to needing space for air circulation, the oxygen concentrator will become very hot, so keep it away from furnishing and furniture.

Step 2:

Connect the humidification bottle if one is prescribed. A humidifier is prescribed by the doctor or medical professional if the oxygen flow rate is greater than 2-3 liters per minute (LPM). Next, fit the threaded cap on your humidification bottle into the outlet on your oxygen concentrator. Slowly twist your bottle until it’s securely attached to the machine. Always use distilled or filtered water in your humidification bottle.

Step 3:

Next, attach the oxygen tubing to either the humidification bottle or an adapter. If you’re using a humidification bottle, you will see a port on the bottle. This is where you insert your oxygen tubing. If you don’t use a humidification bottle, you will use an oxygen adaptor to attach your tubes.

Step 4:

The oxygen concentrator will have an air inlet filter that removes particles and allergens from the air. It should be located on the side of your machine. You might need to remove or change the filter for cleaning, so you should always check to make sure the filter is in place before you turn on your machine. The filter can be washed once a week with warm water and dried before use.

Step 5:

You should start the oxygen concentrator at least 15-20 minutes before using it. It takes time for the oxygen concentrator to begin cycling the correct concentration of air. That means you’ll need to have it on for a while before you begin breathing in the air the machine produces.

Step 6:

The oxygen concentrator will draw a lot of power and should be the only item plugged in the socket. You should not use an extension cord, as this could be a fire risk.

Step 7:

Once you switch the machine on, you will be able to hear the air being processed loudly. Always double check light indicators to ensure your device is working properly.

Step 8:

Before using, you will need to locate the liter control knob or switch on your oxygen concentrator. It may be marked for liters per minute (LPM) or levels, such as 1, 2, 3, etc. You will have to set this knob as per the prescribed liters per minute. If you aren’t sure about the setting, it is advisable to seek clarification from your doctor or medical professional. Also, if you feel you are receiving less amount of oxygen, a consultation is necessary. You should not adjust the setting on your own.

Step 9:

For breathing in oxygen, you should check the tubing for any bends or kinks. Any interruption in the tubing can cause insufficient supply. If you are using a mask, you should make sure that there are no gaps around the edges of the mask. Place the elastic attachment on the mask over your head or around your ears, depending on the style of your mask.

Step 10:

If you are using a nasal cannula, you should adjust it upward into your nostrils for high levels of oxygen. Each prong of the cannula should curve up into one nostril. Once the prongs are in place, loop the tubes over your ears. Adjust the tubes under your chin by sliding the tube adjuster up or down.

DISCLAIMER: Before buying one or using one yourself you are advised to consult a doctor. A professional doctor will be the right person to guide you through its needs and usage.

[rashystreakers]

Link to Video: https://youtu.be/F_cpx8i7H6M

TONGS

Blacksmith Depot: https://www.blacksmithsdepot.com/ not cheap but solid and they sell a wide range of options. Consider a pair of Universal V-bit or some Offset tongs. Expect to spend $50 per set plus shipping.

GSTongs: https://www.gstongs.com/tongs.html these are generally shorter tongs 11”-12” but solid and heavy duty. They are $37 a piece plus shipping.

Ken’s Custom Iron: https://kensironstore.com/ these tongs are super affordable while still being good quality. However, they are not finished. Your blacksmith will have to put their skills to the test to finish these. The upside to that is they can forge them as they need and add to their experience, the downside is they aren’t ready to go right out of the box. Price is $50 for a bundle of 5 sets plus shippin.

Amazon Prime: V-Bit Bolt Blacksmith Tongs - 450mm (18")

HAMMERS

Brent Bailey Forge: http://www.brentbaileyforge.com/ Classic Cross Pein Hammer. Brent makes quite a few hammer types and they are all worth looking at. Most of them are a bit high in price for a low-budget beginner but if you have the cash you should consider purchasing one of his higher end models. If you want the quality and a good all around hammer though his cross pein comes in at $60 plus shipping. It’s a great deal and a great product.

Guildwerks: https://www.guildwerks.com/ They make a beautiful and classic American style rounding hammer. While they are not cheap, this will be a hammer that can be passed down from generation to generation. Hammers start around $250 per hammer.

Hammer Source: https://www.hammersource.com This site stocks all types of hammers. They are generally very affordable like the 1.5 lb Nordic rounding hammers $47 per hammer and the Swedish Pattern Blacksmith Hammer for $49 per hammer plus shipping. If you are looking to save some money but still get a great functioning product check them out.

FORGES

Chile Forge: http://www.chileforge.com/ Arguably one of the best propane forges on the market, they heat hot, fast and evenly. Used by smiths like Jason Knight and David DeLagardelle, you won’t be disappointed in performance. They start at $750 for a one burner and go up from there (plus shipping).

NC Tool: https://www.nctoolco.com/ A mid range forge of good quality and design, this forge is one of the popular forge makers out there. Price starts at $435 for a single burner.

Texas Forges: https://www.facebook.com/jcfuzzzyface47/ They sell a one burner forge starting at $200 and price includes shipping to continental U.S. It’s a solid forge on a budget and may just be what your blacksmith needs to get hot.

Coal Forges: http://www.centaurforge.com/ They have a huge selection of coal forges and they start around $375. They are running specials through the holidays this year.

ANVILS

Centaur Forge: http://www.centaurforge.com/Anvils/departments/141/ This distributer has quite a few options starting at about $300 for a 70 lb anvil and going up from there. The nice thing about Centaur is that they have a $9.85 flat rate shipping fee or free shipping for orders over $375.

Anvil Brand: https://www.anvilbrand.com/shop-categories/anvils/   While they have many of the same options as Centaur they have a few additional brands that may be worth a look if you have a little more jingle this holiday season. JHM Certifier 100 Lb. Anvil

Grizzly Industrial: http://www.grizzly.com/products/300-lb-Anvil/G8150 This anvil is a decent weight and the price is quite nice. Perfect beginner forge. Maybe also get a magnet and a chain with this to help turn down the ringing. Grizzly G8147 Anvil, 55-Pound

DRIFTS, CHISELS & PUNCHES

Tomahawk Drift: Sold by Brent Bailey Forge http://www.brentbaileyforge.com/ , these tomahawk drifts ($110) drifts are made to take a beating. They are forged from tool steel and have a much longer lifespan than a cast iron drift. While you are on his site check out some of his other pieces too, like the basic punch for $45.

Slot Punch: https://www.wateroakforge.com/products/blacksmith-slot-punch?variant=26989971463 The slot punch makes so many projects possible to a blacksmith. Bottle openers, axes, hammers and more will all be possible when your blacksmith has a slot punch at their disposal. Water Oak Forge sells one for $13.50 plus shipping. At that price you might as well buy 2!

Anvil Devil: http://www.piehtoolco.com/contents/en-us/p7195.html These little devils, available from Pieh Tool Co. are little anvil top chisels that can be used to hot cut, mark lines and create texture without having to see if it fits in your blacksmith’s hardy hole (the square hole on the face of the anvil). They are handy and portable cost less than $5. They are perfect for stocking stuffers!

STEEL

New Jersey Steel Baron: http://newjerseysteelbaron.com/shop/product-category/high-carbon-steel/ Okay, most steel from here is sold in 4 foot sections. So you may have to cut it up or give it in a long tube. Maybe start with some 1075, 1084 or something a little more durable like my favorite, W2. On second thought stay away from the W2 so there is plenty left for me ;)

McMaster Carr: https://www.mcmaster.com/#standard-steel-rods/=1ae9p7r  They sell a decent range of steels and in various sizes. You can get some bar stock W1, the same steel I made my winning Panabas from on Forged in Fire.

Jantz Knifemaking: http://www.knifemaking.com/category-s/1502.htm They offer some smaller sized pieces, cheaper for shipping and you can pick up some other handy items from their online store.

FUEL

Propane: https://www.lowes.com/pd/Worthington-Pro-Grade-40-lb-Propane-Tank/3089595 Buy an exchange propane grill tank from a grocery store or gas station. Even if your blacksmith already has one, two is even better! You can also give a gift card to KOA, which refills propane 7 days a week.

Coal: You can order this from Ebay, Blacksmith Depot and Centaur Forge or you can just be bad and hope Santa delivers a big pile on Christmas morning.

Lump Charcoal: https://www.walmart.com/ip/Royal-Oak-100-All-Natural-Hardwood-Lump-Charcoal-4-lbs/54065925 Yes, you can use charcoal, no it’s not the best or cheapest but it’s a good fuel option and lump coal from wood is often sold in grocery stores. Make sure you are not purchasing briquettes as they really mess up the steel, burn cooler and dirtier.

BOOKS, DVDs & LESSONS

Books: The Backyard Blacksmith by Lorelei Sims, The Complete Modern Blacksmithby Alexander Weygers and The Complete Bladesmith: Forging Your Way To Perfectionby Jim Hrisoulas.

DVDs: J. Neilson’s How to... series http://chriscrawfordknives.com/dvds/

Classes: There are many schools and folk schools and bladesmiths that offer classes like Walter Sorrells and Alec Steele who has quite the “okaly dokaly” online course https://beginblacksmithing.com/.

SHOP SUPPLIES

Beeswax: Hansi Beeswax Premium 5 oz> Nothing shines up a freshly forged piece like a bit of wax. You can pick this up at Hobby Lobby and other crafting stores.

Rags: Blacksmith shops are messy places, our hands are dirty and are clothes are dirty, but with some good shop rags we can keep some of that dirt at bay. Shop towels, Perfect for your Shop (14x14) inches, 25 Pack, (Red)

Vinegar: It’s a great product for removing scale. I keep a bucket full at all times in my shop. We buy it in bulk sized containers from Costco. Distilled White Vinegar Jug, 1 gal

Grinder Supplies: Belts, discs and wheels get burned through pretty quickly in a blacksmith shop. A replenished supply at Christmas would go a loooooong way. Just make sure you know what type of equipment you are buying for and that your order will fit. Harbor Freight, Northern Tool, Lowes, Home Depot, Ace Hardware and Menards are all good places to buy many of these items. 4.5" Angle Grinder Flap Disc 40 Grit - 10 Pack

Soapstone: It’s a fireproof stone that comes in the shape of chalk like sticks that smiths can use to mark their work as they go. They aren’t very expensive and you can find them at just about any hardware store. Flat Soapstone Holder with 7 Flat Professional Quality Soapstone

Wire-brushes: These help us keep the metal clean and free of scale as we work it. We can wear them out rather quickly so we don’t usually turn our nose at them. Also readily available at most hardware stores. Steel Wire Brush

Sandpaper and Steel Wool: Also another item that seems to burn up faster than wood. Even though I have a grinder I still go through packs of 120, 220, 320, 400 and 600 grit sandpaper on a regular basis. I also use my fair share of steel wool, just make sure it’s #0000 Steel Wool #0000 Super Fine

Oils: We use oils for all kinds of things in our shops. From polishing wood to quenching knifes and sanding blades, oil helps us get the job done. Linseed is good for handles, mineral is good for quenching as is vegetable oil and even transmission fluid. Oil is good for darkening steel and giving it a rust protectant coating. Break-Free CLP-2 Cleaner Lubricant Preservative

SAFETY

Gloves: No elastic wrist bands, should be all leather. If married, order them some silicone rings so they are more likely to keep their fingers should a finger related accident occur.

Eye Protection: DEWALT DPG82-11 Concealer Clear Anti-Fog Dual Mold Safety Goggle Get something shock rated, Face Shieldsare a great investment!

Respirators: 3M(TM) Half Facepiece Respirator Assembly 6291/07002(AAD), Medium, with 3M(TM) Particulate Filters 2091/07000(AAD), P100 Blacksmith air is dirty air. Give the gift of healthy lungs this Christmas.

[bestwine21]

Are you Up for a Tequila Shot!

I am damn sure that every topper out there would probably had their first sip of tequila clung to the three classic steps of drinking it. Yes this is the most fun part of tequila shot; Lick, Shoot, Suck. You would first lick the salt, shoot the tequila, suck the lemons thus make the entire gimmick complete. Tequilas on books are no different than other liquors but once you have gone for it they add the extra pinch to your crazy mood and unleash your madness.

Tequilas are tequilas if they are gaffed up from the Weber Blue Agave of Mexico. Agave plants are dredged up from mud to reveal the heart of the plant “Pinna”. This white bulb part creates the magic in the liquor preparation. One should hurry up to uproot the young plant to grab the maximum amount of sugar content of the fruit. Zooming into the chemistry behind the brewing process the macro sugars carbohydrates and starch treasured in the plant body are fermented to buy out tequila. Guess what the final taste of the drink depends primarily on the origin of agave; the original tequilas obtained from blue agave are labeled 100% Agave and are certified to the standards by Tequila Regulation Council.

Putting in order the gestation stages of tequila manufacturing is highly labor intensive which makes the liquor extra special and deserves a lot more attention. There are clear cut ways and means said and done to get hold of the antique tequila. The process kicks off by baking the agave pinna (white bulb part) that strings out to 2-3 days to bring them down to caramelized dark brown, mushy honeycomb. Now it’s time to release the juices from the agave fibers using large bulky crushers. These sweet sugary filtrates are now mixed with water and yeast and stacked up in tanks. The tiny yeast add-ons act as the ring masters which ferments the sugars to alcohol. Remember for a lively robust tequila make the yeast happy for 2-3 days with good music. This merry liquid now contains 4-10% alcohol whereas screw it up to 55% which is very possible in 2-4 distillations. The ripen broth is tuned in flame to give off alcohol vapors which are then calmed and condensed into a flask. The blithe drops collected ensure 40% alcohol which are then in the saddle for barreling or bottling. Barreling in Sherry casks, white or French oak gives the absolute color and crowning oaky flavor to the bustling drink. The flashy Tequila bottles also have a fan base for its unique shape & design but bethink it differs between brands.

Trust it guys it’s worth the wait to enjoy the 100% agave tequila after all these arduous efforts. No worries on getting a false one, all tequilas reaching your hands are screened on spot by the Tequila Regulatory council to meet the authentic standards. Shoo away your second thoughts guys rejoice with tequila shot. If life gives you lemons, party it with tequila! Cheers.

[firstwaterfilters]

Everything you need to know about water filters (and the best water filter in your home)

Who would have thought that finding a water filter for your house might be such a complicated process. Reverse osmosis, distiller, alkaline mineralizer, ultraviolet filter... so many filtration technologies, every company claims that their products are the best.

In this article, we will study how all these filter types work, the advantages and disadvantages of each filter, and finally provide you with the "best water filter for you" (you can get it directly by clicking here).

First of all-why a refriegrator water filter 4396841 is needed If you are not sure whether you need a water filter, I strongly recommend that you read the 18 reasons why you must use a water filter, or read through the following points.

If you already know the terrible situation in our drinking water, please skip this section and proceed to the "Water Filter Type" below.

This is a quick overview of why water must be filtered:

Tap water contains toxins such as chlorine, pesticides, heavy metals, radioactive substances and other pollutants. Most cities add fluoride to your drinking water. Fluoride has been classified as a neurotoxin by the world's leading scientific journals. Storage tanks/rainwater are often contaminated with E. coli and other pathogens. Most rainwater is stored in plastic tanks-the BPA in these tanks can seep into the water. BPA is an endocrine disruptor and should be avoided. Glyphosate (Roundup) was found in 85% of rainwater samples collected in the United States. Spring/well water is often polluted by pesticides, nitrates, petroleum by-products, heavy metals and radioactive substances. Not to mention the waste and decay of animals. For references to the above claims and more information on this subject, please read my article on why you must click here to filter water.

Common types of edr3rxd1 water filtration technology-and their advantages and disadvantages When buying a water filter, the first question you will face is "what type of water filter do I need". Below, I have broken down the most common types of water filters, including their working principles and an overview of the advantages and disadvantages of each type of water filter.

Please note-many manufacturers use multiple filtration technologies in their products. This is a wise method. The next section will only describe each filter technology used. Later in this article, we will introduce the complete setup for integrating various technologies into one product.

In addition-the quality of the filter depends on the manufacturer. The following are just general guidelines. Before buying any filter, please contact the manufacturer to ensure that it meets your standards (most manufacturers should test and certify their products with third-party organizations such as NSF International or Water Quality Association).

Reverse osmosis water filter Reserve water permeation (RO) filters can remove neurotoxins in drinking water, so they are popular with local municipal water supplies.

The membrane used in the reverse osmosis system allows only certain particles, molecules and ions to pass through (called a semi-permeable membrane). This allows various bacteria and pollutants such as arsenic, nitrate and fluoride to be removed from the water.

In technical terms, the RO system can work under the following conditions:

Mechanical pressure is applied to the impure solution to force pure water through the semi-permeable membrane.

The disadvantage of this technique is that it wastes a lot of water. Reverse osmosis systems produce 10 times more wastewater than filtered water, which makes these systems undesirable for water scarce or costly places.

Full filtration systems using reverse osmosis technology usually include other filters, such as carbon filters, sediment filters and even UV filters. Such systems are usually sold in the form of multiple "stage" reverse osmosis systems (for example, the filter may use a sediment filter, a carbon filter, a reverse osmosis filter, and then a remineralizer, and is labeled as a "four-stage" Reverse Osmosis System".)

In addition, it is well known that reverse osmosis filters can remove many beneficial minerals (such as natural salt) from our water. The World Health Organization reports that deionized water is not suitable for drinking (2). I will cover this topic in detail in the distilled water section below. Filter companies may use "mineralizers" to re-add these important minerals to your water.

Advantages of reverse osmosis filter:

Removal of fluoride and arsenic that are difficult to filter Relatively low cost Can be used as an option under the sink or countertop (suitable for tenants, etc.) Disadvantages of reverse osmosis filter:

A lot of waste water Remove all dissolved solids, including beneficial minerals, from our drinking water Does not remove chlorine or chemicals, pesticides or drugs The quality of filters from different manufacturers varies greatly Slow filtration rate-ideally requires a storage tank May remove all minerals, so the taste is weak. Membrane needs to be replaced once a year

[sledclock17]

The Length Of Time Will My Carpeting Require To Dry?

20 Best Cleansing Products, According To Specialist Cleaning Company

Content

Armstrong 330408 Once 'N Done Concentrated Flooring Cleanser, 1.

See Some Images Of Our Client'S Floors Before And Also After Our Specialist Cleaning Refine.

Unger Easyglide Soft Rubber.

Enjoy Cleanser, Healthier, Protected Carpets With Our Commercial Carpet Cleaning Service.

Karcher Carpeting Cleaning Company.

Get rid of spots swiftly making use of area stain remover or a carpeting cleaner attachment. Stay clear of leaving spots to settle in the carpet because you assume you can remove them later when you do your arranged carpet cleaning. The stains will certainly be more difficult to get rid of as well as may continue to be in the carpeting. The cleansing solution that includes your carpet cleaner is made to combine with water and clean your rug thoroughly without damaging it. Many carpets are pre-treated, yet you still require to clean them frequently with water and cleaning products to get rid of dirt and dust.

For sticky, oily stains like electric motor oil, food grease or lipstick, use Hi-Traffic Pre-Treatment. https://www.floorwizards.co.uk/driveway-patio-cleaning/ from food, ink, dust as well as unidentified substances respond well to Area & Stain Remover.

Armstrong 330408 When 'N Done Concentrated Floor Cleaner, 1.

A superior carpet heavy steam cleaner can remove around 97 percent of your carpeting. Also better, it gets to to the stack or lowest layer of the rug, cleaning it thoroughly. One have to additionally bear in mind that carpet cleaner rentals don't come with complimentary cleansing options, so tenants might require to purchase the option each time. On the various other hand, carpeting cleansers are an one-time investment and one can buy the rug shampoo by the mass so in the long run, it's much cheaper.

How can I clean my carpet without a machine?

Create a solution of one part distilled vinegar and three parts cold water. Spray it onto your carpet fairly liberally, and allow it a few minutes of contact time. Then take a microfibre cloth, and start gently blotting. Don't scrub, otherwise you could damage your carpet.

They did an outstanding task, and also I'll be using them in future. Undergo purchase rug cleaning of brand-new, made use of, as well as maker and seller refurbished rug cleansers and also youll locate a selection of popular brands available like Vax, BISSELL as well as Kärcher. Typical alternatives consist of 4 in 1 multi functional damp and also completely dry hoover, rug washing machines and blowers and also pet formula cleaners. Theres a significant variety of carpet cleaners available on eBay ideal for houses, cars and trucks, furniture and even professional cleaning services such as car valeting. Fill the storage tank of your Rug Medical professional with hot water.

Do carpets get dirty faster after cleaning?

To save time, some carpet cleaners put the detergent into the cleaning solution being used. This leaves a lot of the detergent on the carpet after the cleaning has been done. As a result, the carpet is sticky and attracts dust and other particles allowing the carpet to become dirty quickly after cleaning.

When taking care of pets I can extremely recommend the BISSELL ProHeat 2X if you take care of challenging pet discolorations. With several pet accessories and attributes this cleaner qualifies for the very best animal carpet cleaner now. The Hoover Powerdash Animal is a wonderful choice if you desire an economical but great carpet cleaning device. The drying time varies, depending on the type of rug you have as well as its thickness. Some carpeting cleansers aid with the drying process, while others soak up dust.

Is steam cleaning bad for carpets?

The reality is that steam cleaning leaves your carpets sopping wet, which can damage your carpet over time. If not properly dried, sopping wet carpet fibers can ultimately lead to mold and mildew growth—something you don't want affecting your indoor air quality.

Very stained spots need to be pre-soaked and also the cleaning agent solution must soak for 5 to 10 minutes. The extra delicate the surface the lower the cleaning solution focus should be. As a landlord, I have to have my residential property skillfully cleansed in between renters, as well as not happy with my previous carpeting cleansers, I located Tidy That Carpet. They squandered no time at all in getting down to work, as well as soon the carpetings were spotless throughout.

The service from start to finish was really professional yet likewise kind and also considerate to my requirements.

I had a water leakage that came through the ceiling as well as the refurbishment created dirt anywhere as well as rust damage to a rug I really cherish.

I'm extremely pleased with The Carpet Cleaning Firm.

In a timely manner, effective, constantly respectful, well-informed as well as nothing is excessive trouble.

I would certainly most definitely suggest this firm highly.

Barry did a great job the other day on my 2 seater sofa as well as carpets.

I had my 3 item collection cleaned likewise, the results were fantastic, specifically the rug, which is of wonderful sentimental value to me.

See Some Photos Of Our Client'S Floors Before And After Our Expert Cleaning Process.

Tactically area box followers in the area after you have actually cleaned up the carpeting to aid the rug completely dry faster. Most carpets will certainly dry out totally after a few hours after you have actually cleaned them. Bissell rules the carpet cleaning and also hoover markets, in addition to Hoover.

And, it is a superb and also flexible multi-purpose home cleanser too. Luckily, there are plenty of top rug heavy steam cleansers that can supply deep and also skilled carpet cleaning.

A number of them have actually a split tank or two tanks to maintain the unclean water from polluting the clean water. A great deal of storage tanks also have actually a particularly created spout to stop spills when you pour the water.

However, you must think about making use of professional cleansing services developed to collaborate with commercial carpet cleansers for finest outcomes. Keep in mind that Walmart does not lease conventional vacuum cleaners. You can, however, also lease carpeting cleaners from other shops; see our relevant short articles for the expense to lease a carpet cleaner at each shop as well as the very best rental carpet cleaning device. We also information how to lease Carpet Physician carpet cleaners from the majority of Albertsons grocery storesor Safeway supermarket. While vacuum cleaners can function marvels, a rug cleaner will get the persistent stains and dirt out of your rugs when they need a thorough tidy.

Unger Easyglide Soft Rubber.

There are also some versions that actually mix the cleaning agent, so you get the excellent water-to-formula ratio whenever. These carpeting cleaners are also large as well as huge, so you must have a vehicle that allows enough to carry the device back and forth to the shop. Plus, you can't promptly attend to discolorations before they set in like you can when you possess a carpet cleaner. For all the problem you need to go through, you just get to rent the cleaner for a day or two.

Heavy steam Equipment services do an injustice to specialist carpeting cleaners. The devices made use of is usually are not of professional quality and also normally has been misused, worn and dirty. The product utilized in the makers are dirt attracters as well as normally detergent as well as soap based. Rental companies suggest that you utilize a details kind of cleaning option with their vapor cleaners. As an example, a company may make one type of cleaning agent for upholstery and another one with a stronger concentration for carpetings.

How can I deep clean my carpet without a steam cleaner?

Refresh and disinfect the fibers of your carpet without renting a steam cleaner with the help of a simple homemade solution and a scrub brush. In a bowl or small bucket, mix one part white vinegar with three parts water. Dip the bristles of the scrub brush into the solution and rub them into the carpet.

Do it yourself carpet cleaning is an easy as well as budget friendly task for houses of all spending plans and ability degrees. Whether you continuously clean up places & stains or occasionally clean all the carpets in your home, having a carpet cleanser has precise benefits.

Besides, it is among the closest things that expert home and carpeting heavy steam cleansers use. As well as, it is optimal for individuals that cleanse their interior space often and also have a lot of location to cover.

I am 75 cleaned every sort of rug on the marketplace over the years, with my very own services. Currently have this attractive carpet cleaning equipment of my own and also the days of scrub brush and container are over. Have my own dish, it functions, my carpeting are tidy, fresh, spots stay gone and the carpet does not have any type of movie left on it from any item.

Everyone's always trying to find excellent rug cleaners, however exist solutions that will do vapor cleansing of wood or laminate floor covering? I have actually never ever seen any type of services like this in my area ... they all just do carpeting as well as furniture. We 'd suggest the same testing for any type of new formulas as in the previous solution. Most rug cleaners work strongly to eliminate stains. Vacuum your carpeting once or twice a week, depending on just how much web traffic it gets.

Delight In Cleaner, Healthier, Protected Carpets With Our Industrial Carpet Cleaning Service.

Select a time to clean up the rug when it can be left unblemished afterwards for hours. Always vacuum the rug completely prior to utilizing the rug cleaner. Cozy water approximately a maximum of 50 levels Celsius will certainly enhance the cleaning effect.

Karcher Carpeting Cleaning Company.

Air Movers For Carpet Cleaning.

Amazing and also it only cost me about $5.00 for the three bedroom residence and my time. Sorry however I can not state anything concerning your websites however you are pushing your services.

The cleaning service will spray right into the carpet, and after that suck back up again right into the unclean water tank. Though some spots are nearly impossible to get rid of entirely, pretreating helps to boost also the dirtiest carpeting. Rug Doctor recommends using their products to pretreat stains.

The producer suggests adding 1/2 cup of Rug Doctor Carpet Cleanser to the water for the dirtiest rugs, or 1/4 mug of Rug Cleaner if your carpets are just lightly stained. Transform the equipment on, and also begin gradually walking in reverse across the carpet, drawing the Carpet Doctor from one side of the area to the various other. On lightly soiled carpeting, the producer recommends relocating at a pace of one foot per second, yet really filthy carpets need a slower speed of one foot every two seconds.

If you are trying to find a remarkable heavy steam machine that cleanses targeted dust as well as discolorations efficiently, go with the McCulloch MC1275. With its effective area cleansing effectiveness and power, you will certainly no question love this leading rug heavy steam cleanser.

How much do you tip a Stanley Steemer guy?

I worked for Stanley Steemer for almost a year, many moons ago. Tips are not required, but if the guys that come out are super polite, go out of their way to keep your house clean and ordered, and especially if they move any furniture for you, it would be very nice and thoughtful of you to knock them an extra $5.

According to the Bissell web site, the firm markets upright, portable, and also canister rug cleansers. Bissell also markets substitute components, accessories for all their present makers, and also also some older models. You'll discover anything for your carpet cleaning needs from Bissell. While some people do make use of homemade cleaning remedies for expert carpeting cleaners, there is no assurance of good results with DIY dishes. Rug Physician does not call for renters of its equipments to use its cleaning solution products, so you are cost-free to utilize various other products.

Why does carpet smell worse after cleaning?

The leading cause for a bad-smelling carpet after cleaning is that the carpet backing absorbed some of the moisture in the process and is still wet. If not dried properly, the underlying material becomes susceptible to mildew problems, which can cause the musty smell.

Evaluation Of Bissell Big Environment-Friendly Deep Cleansing Device.

Deal with pet dog mishaps and other physical fluid stains with Urine Eliminator. Splash the ideal therapy onto your carpeting's filthy spots, and allow the formula soak in for several mins while you prepared the Rug Doctor equipment for cleansing. Residential carpet cleansers are less complicated than ever to use.

[wineanddinosaur]

The Untold Story of Military Special, the U.S. Armed Forces’ Own Bourbon

“I once bought a bottle out of curiosity and I couldn’t even mix it with Coke, it was so bad,” says one man.

“I remember buying this off the bottom shelf, with dust on it, at the Class 6 [store],” says another. “Rough times.”

“This is the kind of bourbon that three privates buy with a bag full of change they collectively scrounged out of their cars the last weekend of the pay period,” says yet another. “I know, I was one of those privates.”

What the three men are talking about is Military Special, “a recipe that espouses the spirit of the Revolutionary War,” according to its packaging, but the product is really just a tax-free, $9 plastic bottle’s worth of bourbon, sold by the liter, and strictly available at United States military exchange stores across the world.

If whiskey geeks crave the obscure and tough-to-acquire, Military Special would fit the bill, given that civilians simply can’t buy the 80-proof, 3-year-old straight bourbon whiskey. At the same time, however, there are over 4,000 military exchange stores in all 50 states, 4 U.S. territories, and 34 countries on every continent, meaning that it’s not exactly rare. Untold numbers of service men and women have encountered the low-brow elixir over the years — and most don’t seem to think all too highly of it.

“I’d say, universally, people think of Military Special as swill,” says active Army officer John Tramazzo, author of the 2019 book “Bourbon and Bullets: True Stories of Whiskey, War, and Military Service.” “The young kids don’t buy it. They’re into flavored whiskey and vodkas, seemingly. The officers don’t buy it — my demographic seems to go for the Woodford Reserve, Maker’s Mark, Bulleit, and Jack Daniel’s Single Barrel picks.”

The Origin Story of Military Special

The War Department officially issued orders to establish military post exchanges in 1895, and Military Special has been around since at least the early 1940s, when it was a blended whiskey produced by Monumental Distilling Company, a once-great Baltimore-area distillery partially destroyed by a smokestack fire in 1942. That location eventually was taken over in 1943 by Majestic Distilling. In 1972, Majestic quit actually distilling products like its famed Pikesville Maryland rye whiskey, but has continued bottling Military Special under the name Atlantic Distillers.

“We buy much of our spirits from a large producer by the tractor-trailer load,” explains Jody Palmisano, the company’s Eastern Shore representative. “Delivered to our tanks in Baltimore. Top quality mass-produced.”

At one time, that large producer was Heaven Hill before being switched to the Sazerac Company around 2013. The products are now distilled at Sazerac’s Barton 1792 Distillery. In a way, it’s kind of fitting that Barton distills Military Special — the company owned the Tom Moore distillery in Bardstown, Ky., which produced neutral spirits to be turned into antifreeze and antiseptics for the military during World War II.

It’s not just the juice that is much-maligned; the packaging is as well, with most servicemen I talked to calling it “cheap” or “hokey.” Today, Military Special appears to be packaged in the same bottles Barton uses for Zackariah Harris, another budget product. If, in the 1940s, the labeling was red, white, and blue, today the label is black and white with gold trim. “Military Special” is written in a swooping serifed font, with the left side of the label featuring a downward quadtych of images — a World War I biplane, an anchor, a wheeled Civil War cannon, and a Revolutionary War-era soldier. Back when Military Special was produced by Heaven Hill, it came in the brand’s distinct tapered-neck bottle, and the images included an M1 tank and Desert Storm soldier.

Finding a Use for Military Special

“Most members of the military are men under age 24 — think about how most 18- to 24-year-olds drink,” says “Mark K.,” an Army lieutenant colonel who was not authorized to speak on the record. The lieutenant colonel notes that he sees most of them opting for Jim Beam or Jack Daniel’s. Which is interesting, as Military Special is charcoal-filtered, a similar process to how Jack Daniel’s is made more mellow via a method known as the Lincoln County Process. (A tagline of “smooth and mellow” is even written on the neck of Military Special bottles.) While he doesn’t really drink it himself, calling it “unremarkable,” he adds, “I always bring a bottle to family events and stuff with non-military colleagues because they think it’s fun and funny.”

It’s those non-military folks, however, who seem to be a lot less critical of Military Special’s taste.

“That is one of the best bourbons I’ve ever had — wow! That is fucking good,” exclaims Jim Bob McClane on his YouTube show “Whiskey Drankers.” While his show partner, Clint M. Black, also cops to liking it, Black says the initial taste is “like you just swallowed a mouthful of kerosene.” Oddly, most non-military men I spoke to found it surprisingly decent. And, far be it for me to steal any valor, but Mark K. offered to send me a bottle from his local exchange. Though I’m not used to drinking bourbon that comes out of 1.75-liter plastic handles, I found it solid — your standard vanilla, caramel, and baking spice notes with just a little bit of oakiness on the finish. Sure it’s quite thin at that low proof, but it’s eminently drinkable and I’m happy to now have it around my house. Maybe it’s simply familiarity that breeds such contempt for Military Special and causes troops to wonder why this thing need be in their lives

“Does it have a purpose? Can it be put to good use? Will it ever claim it’s rightful place in the sun as something other than an overpriced solvent?” asks one soldier on a Reddit bourbon forum.

Besides producing an array of novelty-like alcohols, many with a fishing theme like Gills Gone Wild Vodka, Atlantic Distilling also makes other Military Special products that all seem to be generally loathed by the military. The company produces a blended Scotch, a rum, a gin, a vodka (“dirty dish water mixed with rotten asshole,” jokes a former soldier on Reddit), and even a tequila (“if you truly want to experience death without dying,” cracks another in the same thread). Military Special is both ubiquitous, a fact of military life, yet almost completely disregarded.

In fact, John Tramazzo still has no idea who this stuff is actually meant for. “I literally don’t know who buys Military Special,” he claims, while admitting it’s mysteriously becoming harder to find these days. “Everyone knows about it, though. ‘Oh yeah, that stuff that’s in every exchange around the world and always on the bottom shelf.’ I guess some people, like me, buy it to have stuff on hand. It’s so, so cheap — why not?”

The article The Untold Story of Military Special, the U.S. Armed Forces’ Own Bourbon appeared first on VinePair.

source https://vinepair.com/articles/military-bourbon-story/

[johnboothus]

The Untold Story of Military Special the U.S. Armed Forces Own Bourbon

“I once bought a bottle out of curiosity and I couldn’t even mix it with Coke, it was so bad,” says one man.

“I remember buying this off the bottom shelf, with dust on it, at the Class 6 [store],” says another. “Rough times.”

“This is the kind of bourbon that three privates buy with a bag full of change they collectively scrounged out of their cars the last weekend of the pay period,” says yet another. “I know, I was one of those privates.”

What the three men are talking about is Military Special, “a recipe that espouses the spirit of the Revolutionary War,” according to its packaging, but the product is really just a tax-free, $9 plastic bottle’s worth of bourbon, sold by the liter, and strictly available at United States military exchange stores across the world.

If whiskey geeks crave the obscure and tough-to-acquire, Military Special would fit the bill, given that civilians simply can’t buy the 80-proof, 3-year-old straight bourbon whiskey. At the same time, however, there are over 4,000 military exchange stores in all 50 states, 4 U.S. territories, and 34 countries on every continent, meaning that it’s not exactly rare. Untold numbers of service men and women have encountered the low-brow elixir over the years — and most don’t seem to think all too highly of it.

“I’d say, universally, people think of Military Special as swill,” says active Army officer John Tramazzo, author of the 2019 book “Bourbon and Bullets: True Stories of Whiskey, War, and Military Service.” “The young kids don’t buy it. They’re into flavored whiskey and vodkas, seemingly. The officers don’t buy it — my demographic seems to go for the Woodford Reserve, Maker’s Mark, Bulleit, and Jack Daniel’s Single Barrel picks.”

The Origin Story of Military Special

The War Department officially issued orders to establish military post exchanges in 1895, and Military Special has been around since at least the early 1940s, when it was a blended whiskey produced by Monumental Distilling Company, a once-great Baltimore-area distillery partially destroyed by a smokestack fire in 1942. That location eventually was taken over in 1943 by Majestic Distilling. In 1972, Majestic quit actually distilling products like its famed Pikesville Maryland rye whiskey, but has continued bottling Military Special under the name Atlantic Distillers.

“We buy much of our spirits from a large producer by the tractor-trailer load,” explains Jody Palmisano, the company’s Eastern Shore representative. “Delivered to our tanks in Baltimore. Top quality mass-produced.”

At one time, that large producer was Heaven Hill before being switched to the Sazerac Company around 2013. The products are now distilled at Sazerac’s Barton 1792 Distillery. In a way, it’s kind of fitting that Barton distills Military Special — the company owned the Tom Moore distillery in Bardstown, Ky., which produced neutral spirits to be turned into antifreeze and antiseptics for the military during World War II.

It’s not just the juice that is much-maligned; the packaging is as well, with most servicemen I talked to calling it “cheap” or “hokey.” Today, Military Special appears to be packaged in the same bottles Barton uses for Zackariah Harris, another budget product. If, in the 1940s, the labeling was red, white, and blue, today the label is black and white with gold trim. “Military Special” is written in a swooping serifed font, with the left side of the label featuring a downward quadtych of images — a World War I biplane, an anchor, a wheeled Civil War cannon, and a Revolutionary War-era soldier. Back when Military Special was produced by Heaven Hill, it came in the brand’s distinct tapered-neck bottle, and the images included an M1 tank and Desert Storm soldier.

Finding a Use for Military Special

“Most members of the military are men under age 24 — think about how most 18- to 24-year-olds drink,” says “Mark K.,” an Army lieutenant colonel who was not authorized to speak on the record. The lieutenant colonel notes that he sees most of them opting for Jim Beam or Jack Daniel’s. Which is interesting, as Military Special is charcoal-filtered, a similar process to how Jack Daniel’s is made more mellow via a method known as the Lincoln County Process. (A tagline of “smooth and mellow” is even written on the neck of Military Special bottles.) While he doesn’t really drink it himself, calling it “unremarkable,” he adds, “I always bring a bottle to family events and stuff with non-military colleagues because they think it’s fun and funny.”

It’s those non-military folks, however, who seem to be a lot less critical of Military Special’s taste.

“That is one of the best bourbons I’ve ever had — wow! That is fucking good,” exclaims Jim Bob McClane on his YouTube show “Whiskey Drankers.” While his show partner, Clint M. Black, also cops to liking it, Black says the initial taste is “like you just swallowed a mouthful of kerosene.” Oddly, most non-military men I spoke to found it surprisingly decent. And, far be it for me to steal any valor, but Mark K. offered to send me a bottle from his local exchange. Though I’m not used to drinking bourbon that comes out of 1.75-liter plastic handles, I found it solid — your standard vanilla, caramel, and baking spice notes with just a little bit of oakiness on the finish. Sure it’s quite thin at that low proof, but it’s eminently drinkable and I’m happy to now have it around my house. Maybe it’s simply familiarity that breeds such contempt for Military Special and causes troops to wonder why this thing need be in their lives

“Does it have a purpose? Can it be put to good use? Will it ever claim it’s rightful place in the sun as something other than an overpriced solvent?” asks one soldier on a Reddit bourbon forum.

Besides producing an array of novelty-like alcohols, many with a fishing theme like Gills Gone Wild Vodka, Atlantic Distilling also makes other Military Special products that all seem to be generally loathed by the military. The company produces a blended Scotch, a rum, a gin, a vodka (“dirty dish water mixed with rotten asshole,” jokes a former soldier on Reddit), and even a tequila (“if you truly want to experience death without dying,” cracks another in the same thread). Military Special is both ubiquitous, a fact of military life, yet almost completely disregarded.

In fact, John Tramazzo still has no idea who this stuff is actually meant for. “I literally don’t know who buys Military Special,” he claims, while admitting it’s mysteriously becoming harder to find these days. “Everyone knows about it, though. ‘Oh yeah, that stuff that’s in every exchange around the world and always on the bottom shelf.’ I guess some people, like me, buy it to have stuff on hand. It’s so, so cheap — why not?”

The article The Untold Story of Military Special, the U.S. Armed Forces’ Own Bourbon appeared first on VinePair.

Via https://vinepair.com/articles/military-bourbon-story/

source https://vinology1.weebly.com/blog/the-untold-story-of-military-special-the-us-armed-forces-own-bourbon

[isaiahrippinus]

The Untold Story of Military Special, the U.S. Armed Forces’ Own Bourbon

“I once bought a bottle out of curiosity and I couldn’t even mix it with Coke, it was so bad,” says one man.

“I remember buying this off the bottom shelf, with dust on it, at the Class 6 [store],” says another. “Rough times.”

“This is the kind of bourbon that three privates buy with a bag full of change they collectively scrounged out of their cars the last weekend of the pay period,” says yet another. “I know, I was one of those privates.”

What the three men are talking about is Military Special, “a recipe that espouses the spirit of the Revolutionary War,” according to its packaging, but the product is really just a tax-free, $9 plastic bottle’s worth of bourbon, sold by the liter, and strictly available at United States military exchange stores across the world.

If whiskey geeks crave the obscure and tough-to-acquire, Military Special would fit the bill, given that civilians simply can’t buy the 80-proof, 3-year-old straight bourbon whiskey. At the same time, however, there are over 4,000 military exchange stores in all 50 states, 4 U.S. territories, and 34 countries on every continent, meaning that it’s not exactly rare. Untold numbers of service men and women have encountered the low-brow elixir over the years — and most don’t seem to think all too highly of it.

“I’d say, universally, people think of Military Special as swill,” says active Army officer John Tramazzo, author of the 2019 book “Bourbon and Bullets: True Stories of Whiskey, War, and Military Service.” “The young kids don’t buy it. They’re into flavored whiskey and vodkas, seemingly. The officers don’t buy it — my demographic seems to go for the Woodford Reserve, Maker’s Mark, Bulleit, and Jack Daniel’s Single Barrel picks.”

The Origin Story of Military Special

The War Department officially issued orders to establish military post exchanges in 1895, and Military Special has been around since at least the early 1940s, when it was a blended whiskey produced by Monumental Distilling Company, a once-great Baltimore-area distillery partially destroyed by a smokestack fire in 1942. That location eventually was taken over in 1943 by Majestic Distilling. In 1972, Majestic quit actually distilling products like its famed Pikesville Maryland rye whiskey, but has continued bottling Military Special under the name Atlantic Distillers.

“We buy much of our spirits from a large producer by the tractor-trailer load,” explains Jody Palmisano, the company’s Eastern Shore representative. “Delivered to our tanks in Baltimore. Top quality mass-produced.”

At one time, that large producer was Heaven Hill before being switched to the Sazerac Company around 2013. The products are now distilled at Sazerac’s Barton 1792 Distillery. In a way, it’s kind of fitting that Barton distills Military Special — the company owned the Tom Moore distillery in Bardstown, Ky., which produced neutral spirits to be turned into antifreeze and antiseptics for the military during World War II.

It’s not just the juice that is much-maligned; the packaging is as well, with most servicemen I talked to calling it “cheap” or “hokey.” Today, Military Special appears to be packaged in the same bottles Barton uses for Zackariah Harris, another budget product. If, in the 1940s, the labeling was red, white, and blue, today the label is black and white with gold trim. “Military Special” is written in a swooping serifed font, with the left side of the label featuring a downward quadtych of images — a World War I biplane, an anchor, a wheeled Civil War cannon, and a Revolutionary War-era soldier. Back when Military Special was produced by Heaven Hill, it came in the brand’s distinct tapered-neck bottle, and the images included an M1 tank and Desert Storm soldier.

Finding a Use for Military Special

“Most members of the military are men under age 24 — think about how most 18- to 24-year-olds drink,” says “Mark K.,” an Army lieutenant colonel who was not authorized to speak on the record. The lieutenant colonel notes that he sees most of them opting for Jim Beam or Jack Daniel’s. Which is interesting, as Military Special is charcoal-filtered, a similar process to how Jack Daniel’s is made more mellow via a method known as the Lincoln County Process. (A tagline of “smooth and mellow” is even written on the neck of Military Special bottles.) While he doesn’t really drink it himself, calling it “unremarkable,” he adds, “I always bring a bottle to family events and stuff with non-military colleagues because they think it’s fun and funny.”

It’s those non-military folks, however, who seem to be a lot less critical of Military Special’s taste.

“That is one of the best bourbons I’ve ever had — wow! That is fucking good,” exclaims Jim Bob McClane on his YouTube show “Whiskey Drankers.” While his show partner, Clint M. Black, also cops to liking it, Black says the initial taste is “like you just swallowed a mouthful of kerosene.” Oddly, most non-military men I spoke to found it surprisingly decent. And, far be it for me to steal any valor, but Mark K. offered to send me a bottle from his local exchange. Though I’m not used to drinking bourbon that comes out of 1.75-liter plastic handles, I found it solid — your standard vanilla, caramel, and baking spice notes with just a little bit of oakiness on the finish. Sure it’s quite thin at that low proof, but it’s eminently drinkable and I’m happy to now have it around my house. Maybe it’s simply familiarity that breeds such contempt for Military Special and causes troops to wonder why this thing need be in their lives

“Does it have a purpose? Can it be put to good use? Will it ever claim it’s rightful place in the sun as something other than an overpriced solvent?” asks one soldier on a Reddit bourbon forum.

Besides producing an array of novelty-like alcohols, many with a fishing theme like Gills Gone Wild Vodka, Atlantic Distilling also makes other Military Special products that all seem to be generally loathed by the military. The company produces a blended Scotch, a rum, a gin, a vodka (“dirty dish water mixed with rotten asshole,” jokes a former soldier on Reddit), and even a tequila (“if you truly want to experience death without dying,” cracks another in the same thread). Military Special is both ubiquitous, a fact of military life, yet almost completely disregarded.

In fact, John Tramazzo still has no idea who this stuff is actually meant for. “I literally don’t know who buys Military Special,” he claims, while admitting it’s mysteriously becoming harder to find these days. “Everyone knows about it, though. ‘Oh yeah, that stuff that’s in every exchange around the world and always on the bottom shelf.’ I guess some people, like me, buy it to have stuff on hand. It’s so, so cheap — why not?”

The article The Untold Story of Military Special, the U.S. Armed Forces’ Own Bourbon appeared first on VinePair.

source https://vinepair.com/articles/military-bourbon-story/ source https://vinology1.tumblr.com/post/628973244234498048