I’ve only given out the ASTTTDCS mention to one other person to this point… but today I’m going to add Vedavoo and Scott Hunter to the list.
Look, it’s probably well known that I’m a Vedavoo fanboy. Have been from the start. Still rock an O.G. sling pack of theirs as part of my run n’ gun small stream kit. Damn thing’s at least a decade old and proven to be near indestructible.
Well, occasionally Vedavoo does these little one-off side projects where they’ll take a vintage patch or fabric, repurpose it, and make a very, very limited edition outdoorsy or fishy product out of it. Their US Forest Service Legacy Relic Project pack and reel cases are the latest example of this badassery.
Grifted from their website:
“60+ years ago, a young man left the military and joined the US Forest Service in Utah. He was issued a pack on his first day which he carried throughout a career that was distinguished by his contributions to conservation of our natural resources. Worn through in places, and bearing many scars from years of service, the pack was discovered by Torchbearer Colby Crossland along with a collection of original, vintage patches of Smokey the Bear in a home he was cleaning out.
Using panels from the original pack, patches from the owner’s collection, and even the buckles from the original flap closure, Scott painstakingly paired original elements with new waxed twill, leather, and other premium materials to give new life to the original pack while preserving its unique character and spirit. Today, we are proud to present this as our first WORKSHOP RELIC – a truly one-of-a-kind piece of handcrafted equipment.
This particular piece was made as a token of respect to all who do (and have done) so much to keep our parks, forests, and other lands beautiful, and in honor of the man who carried the pack for so long. This is especially important given recent events.”
Holy fuck, look at how gorgeous that pack is!
(I’m from DELCO, I curse a lot when I get excited.)
While the reel covers were available for sale on a first come, first served basis (sorry, they’re sold out), the pack is being raffled off and as of writing there are still raffle entries available for $20 each. They’re being capped at 80 entries, representing each of Smokey’s years of being the spokesbear for forest fire prevention. So while it doesn’t increase my odds of winning, I’d recommend you get in on the raffle while the getting’s good… All the while supporting those that do cool shit.