Review of Cairn Box #6 was delayed because apparently it arrived right after I filled out postal forwarding and thus got redirected. This is the last box in the 6 month subscription, and given what’s in it, I’m not really convinced it justifies another 6 month bout.
BlackStrap Daily Tube Value: $20.
What they say: “This version of BlackStrap’s versatile facemask features art submitted by a fellow Cairn adventurer, plus it provides breathable, quick-drying, UPF 50+ sun protection or a bit of warmth for an early fall chill.”
What I say: I’m not sure what this is to be used for… it seems too bulky for a headband and too light for a neck gaiter. The best hope for value is once ski season comes around.
My valuation: Looks like some colors are available on amazon for as little as $5… that seems reasonable if this is a thing you want. Also, they include a coupon for 40% off, which I’m betting is still a profitable price for 1.5 square feet of fabric, and would put the price at $12. Janet used a gift card to buy a $12 headband I wanted and I still question that.
Epiphany Outdoor Gear v3 Pocket Bellows Value: $15.
What they say: “This ancient fire starting technology molded intoa modern telescopic hand tool is compact, lightweight and will help get your campfire burning quickly even with wet wood.”
What I say: Good luck getting wet wood to burn with a 1/4″ tube. I’ve used this “ancient fire starting technology” before by rolling up some paper to direct air into a fire… and then, when the job is done, it too goes into the fire. The number of these very niche items for camping kind of amuses me – do people camp with tool chests? “Wait, wait, wait! Don’t start the fire yet, I have a little collapsible tube thing in here somewhere!”
My valuation: Meh, $5, maybe… the end, which is where you’d push to collapse it is actually quite sharp and it’s value will probably be a cut on my hand should I ever use it.
Skout Organic Raw Pumpkin Seeds Value: $6.50.
What they say: “Even those that don’t think they like pumpkin will find these organic superfood seeds delicious. Packed with protein, zinc, iron, magnesium and omega-3’s, they will add spice and fuel to your next adventure.”
What I say: I’m one of those who don’t care for pumpkin seeds. I like pumpkin (not pumpkin spice lattes) but I don’t really care for the seeds that emerge from the glorp inside. That said, the sales pitch might get me to try them and there does seem to be a pretty hefty amount.
My valuation: $3 – double my standard bar valuation
Whiskey Run Butter Stick Lip Balm Value: $3.50
What they say: “Plant based organic cocoa and cupuacu butter, and other natural ingredients, provide moisture and sun protection to make dry, chapped lips someone else’s problem.”
What I say: HOLY CRAP IT’S AVAILABLE ON ETSY! TRENDY LIP BALM!!!!
My valuation: $1.29 – Based on checkout lane chapstick pricing du jour, I don’t pay for trendy.
UST Brands Compass Carabiner Value: $3.50
What they say: “More than just a key ring, this carabiner provides that critical bit of information when your GPS says “head west on…” and you don’t know which way that is.”
What I say: I don’t like that the brand name is “UST Brands” you can’t use the word brands in a brand. Secondly, I would never trust a keychain compass.
My valuation: $.99 for the carabiner
Mike Putnam Photography Greeting Card Value: $3.50
What they say: “Mike’s spectacular landscape photos are features in brew pubs and shops all over our hometown, so we thought we’d share a little bit of that inspiration.”
What I say: I don’t care… It’s a printed image that’s less than 3 feet wide. (This is not a commentary on the picture itself, or the photographer).
My valuation: —
Conclusion: As listed, the content’s value is $51 which is borderline ridiculous given my assessment which puts it all at 10.29.
And, here, since I was so grumpy in the review is a photo of my own to inspire you… It’s a buffalo pie looking up toward Mt. Washburn! NOW GET OUT THERE AND ENJOY SOME NATURE!
