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Nate Blouin

Alpine Skier // Mountain Biker

Nate Blouin: #572 of 167,331 More Information

31 Reviews:

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13 Yes

0 Questions:

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21 Answers:

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4 Yes

3 Photos:

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18 Comments:

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1 Wishlists:

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  • Stomping Grounds:

    The Wasatch, I Street.
  • Bio:

    I moved here from New Hampshire in April to shred some pow, bike, hike, and do all the other things that make the Wasatch Front such a special place.

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The Grizz

The Grizz

Dynastar Legend Pro XXL Alpine Ski

October 22, 2009

Dynastar Legend Pro XXL Alpine Ski on a Black Diamond Covert Avalung pack.

Helpful Votes: 1 Yes

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Marker Duke Ski Binding

November 7, 2011

don't listen to jamie, 110 will work fine. the 110 works with minimal bending on my megawatts at 125 underfoot.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes

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Salomon Rocker 2 Ski

August 19, 2011

rocker 2 is much more in line with something like the armada jj or even the line opus, rocker is hard to describe as i really loved it when i could just go extremely fast down steep open runs that were totally fresh, it had a great combo of stable platform but the swallowtail let you kick the tails out and slide a turn if you wanted, probably more like the old blizzard zeus or one of those other big, stiff AK style chargers (there is not a whole lot at all to compare it with).

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes

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Salomon Rocker 2 Ski

August 19, 2011

it's 100% a totally different ski... the rocker is great on big open mountain faces for really high speeds and drops, the rocker 2 is awesome if you are a more playful skier who like to spin, ski switch etc, and don't need a huge, stable platform for going straight down the hill. i have ridden both and both are best left to untracked snow, the performance on both left something to be desired when anything got even a bit tracked.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes

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Salomon Sentinel Ski

February 1, 2011

hey brennan i've skied on the rocker 2's for a morning. i skied on armada JJ's all last eyar as an everyday ski, and the rocker 2 reminded of a bit fatter version of those. while they really aren't my style, they do make a great pow ski for someone who likes to really play around with the terrain, spin, ski switch, and also make a great tree ski. the one thing i really liked about the rocker 2 was when they were in the air... the way they've separated the edges really gives them amazing swing weight, they just feel incredibly light in the air. for many skiers they'd be awesome, i just like a longer, stiffer ski that's built more for skiing fast, forwards.

Helpful Votes: 1 Yes

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Oakley Crowbar Goggle Replacement Lens

November 18, 2010

clear or HI yellow my man. persimmon wouldn't be terrible either and is a little more versatile.

Helpful Votes: 1 Yes

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Dalbello Sports Virus Tour Ski Boot - Men's

January 14, 2010

i stand corrected, thanks for clarifying. the answer is still the same though, you would need the second tongue to switch from one flex to the other.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes

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Oakley Alps Jacket - Men's

Oakley Alps Jacket - Men's

Oakley Alps Jacket - Men's

Rating for this product: 5 January 3, 2010

This is an amazing jacket, Seth has it right! The waterproofing/breathability is unmatchable, and compared to other eVent 2L shells that I have owned, this material feels so much more durable as well as the noticeable performance upgrade. I am 6'1, and went with an XL. While it is very close to being to big (and I like baggy stuff), it is good with some layers and looks fine with a pack on. If you want something a bit more fitted, go with a L or even M. Amazing jacket though!

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes

0 Comments

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The North Face Caribou Down Jacket - Men's

December 20, 2009

No, Backcountry.com is online only with the exception of the retail location in Salt Lake City.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes

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Look PX 15 FS WB Ski Binding

Look PX 15 FS WB Ski Binding

Look PX 15 FS WB Ski Binding

Rating for this product: 3 December 20, 2009

Way to heavy for a 15 DIN binding. Spend a couple extra dollars and get the FKS/Pivot 14 or 18, you will be stoked.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes

1 Comment

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Look PX 18 FS XXL Ski Binding

Look PX 18 FS XXL Ski Binding

Look PX 18 FS XXL Ski Binding

Rating for this product: 3 December 20, 2009

They hold you in, they release when they need to, but jesus are they heavy, and the large mounting footprint on the back messes with flex a bit (not really to noticeable). Spend $100 more and get the FKS/Pivot.

Helpful Votes: 2 Yes

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Look Pivot 14 Ski Binding

Look Pivot 14 Ski Binding

Look Pivot 14 Ski Binding

Rating for this product: 5 December 20, 2009

If the silver isn't flashy enough for ya, check out the Rossi FKS 140. These are probably the best bindings ever built for park skiers, being light, strong, and safe. They brought em back for a reason.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes

3 Comments

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Look Pivot 18 Ski Binding

Look Pivot 18 Ski Binding

Look Pivot 18 Ski Binding

Rating for this product: 5 December 20, 2009

Same as the Rossi FKS 180, these destroy anything you can throw at em. They pretty much rule the charts across binding competition, being lighter, safer, stronger etc than most other high din bindings.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes

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Rossignol FKS 140 Ski Binding

Rossignol FKS 140 Ski Binding

Rossignol FKS 140 Ski Binding

Rating for this product: 5 December 20, 2009

For a lightweight alternative to the 180, go for these. The toe piece is primarily plastic, so if you like to break stuff, upgrade to the 180's but for the mere mortal, these should work. The new wide brake makes it so you don't have to worry about braking a brake. Definitely a must for any serious jibber.

Helpful Votes: 1 Yes

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Rossignol FKS 180 Ski Binding

Rossignol FKS 180 Ski Binding

Rossignol FKS 180 Ski Binding

Rating for this product: 5 December 20, 2009

There's a reason they brought these back. For an 18 din, full metal binding, these are light (it's all relative), and are easier on your knees than anything else out there. The new and improved wide brake is really the only difference, as well as the wider jigs sent to shops for a more precise mount on fat skis. Simply the best!

Helpful Votes: 1 Yes

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Norrøna Narvik Gore-Tex Long Mitten

December 19, 2009

Definitely Deb. They are sooo nice. Easily the nicest "handwear" I've ever owned.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes

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CamelBak Ergo Hydrolock

CamelBak Ergo Hydrolock

CamelBak Ergo Hydrolock

Rating for this product: 5 December 19, 2009

This is the best thing ever. Seriously.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes

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GoPro HD Helmet HERO

GoPro  HD Helmet HERO

GoPro HD Helmet HERO

Rating for this product: 5 December 19, 2009

Took me about ten minutes playing around with it to figure out how to switch modes/resolutions etc. Hopefully I'll come up with some screenshots or something after I really get to use it.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes

1 Comment

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Armada Inverse Jacket - Men's

December 19, 2009

Big, not huge. If you like a baggy fit, order your normal size. If you like super baggy park rat steeze, go a size up. I'm about 6'1 and the XL fits good and baggy.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes

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Armada JJ Ski

December 19, 2009

I don't really know what you are asking, but suggest mounting these within +/- 2cm of the recommended line.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes

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Marker Duke 16 Ski Binding

December 19, 2009

alpine boots work fine in these, just make sure to have a shop set up the proper toe height adjustment.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes

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Black Diamond Ascension Nylon STS Skins

Black Diamond Ascension Nylon STS Skins

Black Diamond Ascension Nylon STS Skins

Rating for this product: 5 December 18, 2009

These are the industry standard for climbing skins. They will work for you, no matter what. The only thing I can see being a possible issue is the glue wearing out, as it seems to have lost a bit of stick after a few days. Still, that is a fairly easy fix.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes

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Armada JJ Ski

December 17, 2009

I've taken jj's/dukes for couple mile long, 2 hour tours and have have had 0 issues.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes

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Black Diamond Outlaw with Avalung Pack

Black Diamond Outlaw Avalung Pack - 1831-1939cu in

Black Diamond Outlaw Avalung Pack - 1831-1939cu in

Rating for this product: 5 December 16, 2009

Wow this is the best day pack ever! I had a Covert Avalung last year and thought it was perfect, but man was I wrong. This holds everything you need for a day tour (shovel/probe, skins on the way down, an extra layer/gloves, goggles, some munchies, H20 bladder) and still cinches down super tight when you need to use it for lift accessed. The BD Deploy 7 shovel fits in the front pocket like they were designed with each other in mind (maybe?), and the Avalung really doesn't bother you as long as you have a couple layers on, though if you are wearing it over a single base layer or something I could see it being annoying. I'm 6'1, pretty skinny, and the M/L fits just right. Plenty of room for adjustment from my size either way. It also has a rigid wire internal frame to keep it from getting weird bulges. The only thing I have found off is that it won't fit a full 100oz Camelbak on the hanger, but with a bit of that gone it will slide in and hang on. All in all it is a phenomenal product.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes

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Backcountry.com Liner Glove - Men's

Backcountry.com Liner Glove - Men's

Backcountry.com Liner Glove - Men's

Rating for this product: 5 December 16, 2009

I used these today for the first time. Went up LCC to do some touring, and used these exclusively on the way up. They seem to be more durable than most crappy liners, and the goat pattern on the palm is super tacky. They were good and breathable, and kept the water out until I got into some deeper snow and fell over a couple times! Obviously, once I reached an upper elevation, shaded area my hands got cold, but these are most certainly not meant to keep you warm on their own. Better than the rest for sure.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes

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Norrøna Narvik Gore-Tex Long Mitten

Norrøna Narvik Gore-Tex Long Mitten

Norrøna Narvik Gore-Tex Long Mitten

Rating for this product: 5 December 16, 2009

After I got frustrated one morning with not even being able to feel my hands and losing all dexterity, I decided I needed something better. After a couple days of storm skiing at Snowbird, these have proven to be the best. I haven't been cold, or even wet, once. They are not as bulky as a lot of super warm gloves, as the GTX/primaloft combo packs a ridiculous 1-2 punch, and still allow you a great amount of movement. They fit pretty true to size, normally I am a medium type hand but I went with the large and they fit the BC.com liner gloves underneath like they were meant to be paired together. I can't say enough good things about these! I can feel my hands again!

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes

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Marker Duke 16 Ski Binding

Marker Duke 16 Ski Binding

Marker Duke 16 Ski Binding

Rating for this product: 5 December 11, 2009

These things are idiot proof. Haven't put them through a whole lot of skiing yet, but what I've done has been sick. The only thing I can really see being an issue is buildup of ice in the walk to ski transfer, but that can be easily chipped away with a pole. Also they are a bit high off the ground, but after a couple runs in soft snow and even groomers I really haven't noticed it.

Helpful Votes: 2 Yes

5 Comments

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Black Diamond Traverse Ski Poles

Black Diamond Traverse Ski Poles

Black Diamond Traverse Ski Poles

Rating for this product: 5 December 9, 2009

I got these a few days ago, and have used them for a couple days at the Bird. While they aren't as light as I expected, they are definitely sturdier and more durable. The grip is great and the flicklock mechanism is pretty incredible. Pow baskets are super nice as well. Considering they are cheaper than most "high end" poles, I don't know why you wouldn't go for these. If you can only afford one pair of poles for resort/side/backcountry, definitely grab these!

Helpful Votes: 2 Yes

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Black Diamond Deploy 7 Shovel

Black Diamond Deploy 7 Shovel

Black Diamond Deploy 7 Shovel

Rating for this product: 5 December 9, 2009

Strong, fairly light, nice handle. Fits very well into a BD Outlaw Avalung pack in the front pocket. Serves it's purpose well, which is all that matters for avy gear.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes

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Dalbello Krypton Pro I.D.

Dalbello Sports Krypton Pro I.D. Ski Boot  - Men's

Dalbello Sports Krypton Pro I.D. Ski Boot - Men's

Rating for this product: 5 November 25, 2009

Just picked these up, and out of the box I was worried they'd be to small. That's coming from and ex racer, who's used to jamming his foot into boots that are 3 full US sizes to small. I wear around a size 9.5-10 street shoe, and went with the 26.0. Well, I took them into the shop, and got the Intuition liners heat molded. Holy shit. I put the boots back on after molding, and they "fit like a glove". They went from being jammed in and painful to the nicest fit ever, while still being good and tight for the performance you want. The moral is size down, and no matter what, have them heat molded. Also, the level of customization on these boots is insane. they're pretty amazing.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes

1 Comment

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POC Receptor Bug

POC Receptor BUG Helmet

POC Receptor BUG Helmet

Rating for this product: 5 November 17, 2009

I haven't actually used this for skiing yet, but have been using it for biking and it's great. No issues at all, POC makes a sick, safe product.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes

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Backcountry Access SR3 Avalanche Probe

Backcountry Access SR3 Avalanche Probe

Backcountry Access SR3 Avalanche Probe

Rating for this product: 5 November 14, 2009

This is definitely one of the best probes for any area that gets a decent amount of snow. If you want to risk a buddy's life because you wanted to save a couple ounces, look elsewhere, but I'm led to believe that the extra couple feet is a lot more important than a couple ounces. It'll fold out quick, get through gnarly chunks of avy debris, and basically just do what it's designed to do, and in the situations you'll be using it, that's what matters most.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes

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Backcountry Access Chugach Pro EXT

Backcountry Access Chugach Pro EXT Shovel

Backcountry Access Chugach Pro EXT Shovel

Rating for this product: 4 November 14, 2009

Damn, this thing is badass. If you're looking for something to dig your car out with, or build Chad's Gap with, this is the tool you need, and ignore the 4 star rating. If you want a shovel to get out into the backcountry with on your pack, unless you actually are a Pro in the Chugach, this probably isn't the way to go. It's pretty darn heavy, but the thing that would concern me is that I'm not sure whether it would fit into your average BC pack at all. It'll definitely dig whatever you need it to though, so if that's what you want, BUY THIS SHOVEL.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes

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Armada JJ

Armada JJ Ski

Armada JJ Ski

Rating for this product: 5 November 14, 2009

After finally getting these out in some real snow, the versatility continues to amaze me. I've skied them in everything from hardpack to 40 inches of fresh, and they can really do it all. I mounted with Dukes at +2 from the line (-3 from center) and the playfulness and ease they add to skiing everything is incredible. The +2 mount gives them some extra tail to land and sit back on if needed. Also have been touring for a few days, they are light enough even with Dukes that you can cover some pretty serious vert.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes

2 Comments

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Armada Quasar Pant

Armada Quasar Pant - Men's

Armada Quasar Pant - Men's

Rating for this product: 4 November 14, 2009

I went with a size large black in these to go with my Armada Inverse b/w jacket. The fabric isn't amazing, but seems durable and definitely adequate for the price you're paying. The vents are great for getting out and touring, and the pants don't seem especially heavy or hot (which are both good in my book). They have loops that line up with snaps on Armada jackets, and the overall quality and level of craftsmanship seems to be very, very high, which if you know Armada skis you've come to expect. My first impression is that these are a seriously worthwhile deal for what Backcountry is offering them for!

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes

2 Comments

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Armada Inverse Jacket

Armada Inverse Jacket - Men's

Armada Inverse Jacket - Men's

Rating for this product: 5 November 14, 2009

Just picked this thing up... holy shit. I got the black/white, with the black Quasar pants, and it and it looks fresh as... well, you know. Sweet pow skirt, snaps to keep your pants from sagging to much, amazing fabric, and extremely high quality craftmanship (read: it looks flawless) from a first year outerwear company is pretty damn cool. Hopefully I'll get some pics up when the pow starts to pile up.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes

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Backcountry Access Tracker DTS

Backcountry Access Tracker DTS Beacon

Backcountry Access Tracker DTS Beacon

Rating for this product: 5 November 14, 2009

It's the easiest to use, the most affordable, the best. Just look at all the people with red goats (our team) that have rated this thing highly. I really don't think anything more needs to be said. Just keep your eyes out for the Tracker 2, which should be hitting the store later this season.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes

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Hestra Vertical Cut Freeride Glove

Hestra Vertical Cut Freeride Glove DO NOT USE

Hestra Vertical Cut Freeride Glove DO NOT USE

Rating for this product: 2 October 23, 2009

I got a pair of these used last season. They look good, but unfortunately I haven't found them to be particularly waterproof or warm. I have them in the orange color, and have found that the color seriously bleeds over anything and everything when wet. Maybe a different color would be better.

Helpful Votes: 1 Yes

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Bern Baker Hard Hat Helmet

Bern Baker Hard Hat Helmet w/Knit Liner

Bern Baker Hard Hat Helmet w/Knit Liner

Rating for this product: 5 October 23, 2009

This is such a sick helmet, especially considering how much it costs. with most similar quality helmets running at least $20-40 more, these things are bomber. The Brock Foam should be the new industry standard, as it's more breathable, rated for multiple impacts and is softer and more comfortable. They look good too, and if you're a steezy jibber who wants to rock a beanie under your dome piece, just snap out the dope knit liner. Definitely a great, great helmet usable for multiple sports and pursuits.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes

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Oakley Crowbar Goggle - The Standard

Oakley Crowbar Goggle

Rating for this product: 5 October 23, 2009

I consider these to be the standard around which other goggles are measured. You can't beat the performance and style offered by the crowbar, and they fit very well with most helmets (I own a Sweet Protection Rambler Beaked, I don't think I've ever seen a tighter fit on a helmet/goggle combo). They're expensive, but you are definitely paying for what you get.

Helpful Votes: 2 Yes

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Dragon DX Goggles

Dragon DX Goggles w/ Ionized Lens w/Free Bonus Lens

Rating for this product: 4 October 22, 2009

These are a great goggle at a great price. Very durable, inexpensive, versatile, and good looking. The lenses aren't amazing, but at least you arent paying $40+ for every lense.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes

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Orage Range Insulated Pant

Orage Range Insulated Pant - Men's

Orage Range Insulated Pant - Men's

Rating for this product: 4 October 22, 2009

Nice, stylie pant with 20/20 rating... good waist adjustment feature, side vents work very well, excellent pant for all weather.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes

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Black Diamond Covert with Avalung Winter Pack

Black Diamond Covert Avalung Winter Pack - 1343-1953cu in

Rating for this product: 4 October 22, 2009

I used to own the Black Diamond Covert Winter Pack. The integrated Avalung is definitely a sick tool. This is a great pack to take up if you're planning on doing some hiking or skiing out of bounds, or even for short BC tours. I owned the older 22L pack in a L/XL (6'1, 175), which was a bit small for my taste, but the 32L, or the newer 30L, is a great do it all pack. The ski carry is awesome, adding a lot of stability over other packs I have used, and fits HUDGE skis (my Fatypus Alotta's, 140mm waist with a twin, fit tightly but well). Definitely the go to pack for day trips and sidecountry yoyoing. It even doubles as a summer hike/bike pack!

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes

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Dynastar Legend Pro XXL Alpine Ski - Best All Mountain Charger

Dynastar Legend Pro XXL Alpine Ski

Rating for this product: 5 October 22, 2009

These things destroy anything and everything in their path. If you don't know what to expect when you show up at the hill in the morning, take these. Just don't expect to take them on the groomers, unless you're a beefy ex-racer who likes to keep the speed limit consistently above 40mph. The Dynastar Legend Pro XXL's kill it in the crud, pow, chop, mank, corn... you get the picture. I'm a 6'1, 175 pound ex-racer, and while they're heavy,they're a surprisingly nimble tool that really can do it all.

Helpful Votes: 2 Yes

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