Tips to keep warm/prepared in Winter at Outdoor ranges

A snowmobile suit and boots makes life alot nicer in frigid temp's I find.
Eric

Agreed, my old leather snowmobile suit is warm enough to sleep in in sub-zero temps. The problem is cooling off once you are sweating... I don't find I make good use of the range when I am so cold that I can't loosen up or stop shivering. I never though of bringing one of those propane area heaters but why not if the range is ok with it? You may get a few strange looks but I bet someone sets up next to you within a few minutes lol...

Jeff
 
Layering. It's key. It will allow you to shed a layer if you need to as you warm up, then put it back on if you need it later during cool down. Start with good underwear. Merino wool is awesome, wicks moisture from the skin, and is sooo warm. But chi chi expensive! A good alternative to merino would be a good, finely spun polypropylene set of underwear.

Next, I like the idea mentioned above about fleece lined jeans. You can also get jeans lined with lightweight wool. Either would be good for standing at the range. Get a nice, midweight fleece, or if you want to splurge, a SnugPak jacket (I like the Sleeka). Or, an Arktis Mammoth shirt. Last layer on top, a good heavy canvas or cotton gabardine jacket (think British Para Smock type material, or Carhart's type cloth). Make sure it is roomy so the mid layers fit without binding.

For feet, good leather boots with Thorlo socks. If you can afford them, Danner or Matterhorn goretex lined and insulated military boots are very nice. The newer Canadian wet weather boot would also do. Goretex lined, insulated, and can be found pretty cheap at many surplus stores.

Gloves. Get a good set of silk liners so that you can keep that on when doing things that require manual dexterity. Then have a nice pair of 3M Thinsulate insulated leather or fabric gloves, similar say to snowmobile, winter motorcycle or skiing gloves.

And keep the head warm. Wow, it makes a difference. Mark's Work Warehouse is selling canvas "aviator" style caps with fold down ear flaps, and rabbit fur lining. They look toasty!
 
I can't add to much to this but I learned a few things when I was framing houses in the middle of winter (-30 C :( )

I could write a lengthy article on all the pro's and con's etc. but I won't. Loft / layers is the key. It doesn't matter if you have a $500 down parka or a few shirts and sweaters on, if you don't have enough loft to keep the warmth in your going to be cold. Past that regulate your temp by never allowing yourself to get to the point of sweating. I have hardcore outdoor gear and I have also done the long johns, cheap sweaters and a hoody route. Both work but cost different amounts.

One thing I swear by and will spend big bucks on is a good fleece vest with wind stopper. That one one item is worth it's weight in gold. Bib overalls (Carhart style) are a close second.
 
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