Adequate but unnecessarily expensive

By PearlJamPSU Ranked #51 - Cookware March 9, 2009

These things are one those "damned if you do, damned if you don't" deals. They are required in many places so you have to get one, but why they are $79 just baffles me. Do they work? Yes. But in reality, they are a glorified 5 gallon water jug with a lid - although not quite that large. I haven't had a problem with my BV500 but then again, I haven't been fortunate enough to experience a bear trying to open it, yet. I should mention, however, that I use mine in an area (Shenandoah NP) that doesn't require one but could and probably should. It fits perfectly into my Osprey Argon 85 but the outside grooves conveniently allow it to be strapped down as well if space is limited. Being clear is definitely a plus and as was stated earlier, it is strong enough to double as a stool. It does weight in at 2 lbs 9 oz. but I guess I'm glad it's heavier than not for smell insulation purposes. According to the Sierra Interagency Black Bear Group (www.sierrawildbear.gov), the BV500 is "conditionally approved" but nonetheless, approved.

View Details: Bear Vault BV500 Bear Resistant Food Canister

Helpful Votes: 1 Yes | 0 No