Wednesday, 18 February 2009
Bosch Backing Grinder Pad
When I received the backing pad, it was immediately apparent that this was a lightweight pad (didn't want to call it cheap). My OEM Makita was much heavier and made of hard rubber and not thin plastic. Time will only tell on this product. Bosch MG0450 4-1/2-Inch Sander Backing Pad with Lock Nut
There are so many reasons to "Beware" if you are thinking about buying this backing pad. My first warning is to not buy this at all. It is cheap and did not last even 10 minutes. It is too thin and too rigid, so the edges ware away instantly. The next warning is if you do buy it, definitely follow the instructions stamped directly on it... "Wear eye, face and body protection." You will need the protection because of all the pieces of plastic flying off the disk as it comes apart.'
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Dell Inspiron 6400 - dell laptop battery, laptop battery
We have been using our Dell E1505 as a "desktop" (always plugged in) for over two years since the original Dell battery quit. I couldn't justify the $150 dollar fee for a new battery. I have been waiting for both a non-dell battery to come down in price and get good reviews. The battery came promptly installed fine. I conditioned according to another posts recommendations "On your initial charge of 100% charging you let the battery drain to 40% and then recharge to 100% and then the second depletion to 20% and back to a full recharge cycle. This helps maintain the battery condition and in some aspects the "Brain" of the battery so to speak is set in motion and maintains battery health througout time. ". I don't keep the laptop plugged in all the time when I am working at a table. So far so good. Keeps charge for 4-6 hours before needing to plug in. Time will tell how long this battery lasts - had it about a month. NEW 7200mAh (9-cell) High Capacity Laptop Battery for Dell Inspiron 6400, E1505
We purchased this item to replace a dead battery in our e1505 dell laptop. We followed the instructions to maximize battery life. It held one full charge and now will hold zero charge and is dead. After a few hours of attempting charge, removing the power cable immediately shows dead battery light. It seems like other people have had fair success with these battery replacements, but unfortunately we're not one of them.
I am practically computer illiterate but ordered this battery when my original gave out after 4 years. I had no trouble either installing it or convincing my computer (Dell Inspiron E1505)to operate effectively. I followed one reviewer's suggestion of draining it to 40%, recharging to 100%, then draining to 20%, etc. When fully charged now I have 6 hours of time, although I haven't tested that to the max......about 4 hours is the most I have used it. I do leave it plugged in when not in use, but plan to use it on a 2-week trip soon, so will find out how it holds up when unplugged. I am well pleased with the prompt shipment by the vendor, as well as the battery itself.
This was the greatest thing I could've bought for my Inspiron 6400. Like other users mentioned, I've been using my laptop ike a desktop for over a year (it's been plugged in the whole time#. As a result, I took the plunge and purchased a new battery for it. I couldn't spend the $150+ dell was asking for a 6 cell battery, so I LOVED that this battery was around $40 and was a 9 cell battery. I'm using it on high performance #vs "Balanced" or "Power Saver" mode so I can charge and discharge the battery 3-5x to ensure that it can hold a long charge) and already receive ~4 hrs. Imagine what I'll get on a "Balanced" mode or "Power Saver". Definitely purchase this battery. They even give you free return shipping if it is faulty or not to your liking. You can't go wrong!
The battery fits perfectly in my Dell Inspiron E1505. It snaps in, but it does have an extra rectangular piece that sticks out of the battery. Since the bump is slightly smaller than the "feet" on my laptop I never notice it, and aesthetics on the bottom of my computer are hardly worth buying a battery straight from dell at triple the price. I've only had it for a few days, but it's holding a charge and working great! At my balanced power settings it shows 3h. 40 min. at 100% capacity. (could be better?) So happy to be free from electric outlets!
Very pleased with my order and this product (for Dell Inspiron E1505). Seller provided prompt shipping - I ordered on Wednesday Nov. 4, and received on Friday Nov. 6. Product performs perfectly so far with no issues. Wrote seller before ordering and received a response within 48 hours (expected the response would have been sooner, but happy with the response). I would definitely do business with this seller in the future.
I got this battery for my Inspiron 6400 laptop. The first battery worked for 3 days and stopped charging. I returned it and got a second battery of the same type that charges at times, but ususally doesn't. I was happy with the seller's quick and uncomplicated return policy, but the specific product doesn't work on my laptop.
EXCELLENT! battery is a genuine Dell model (although made in china) and works 100% with my dell inspiron 6400....cant beat 50% off dell's price and its the second time i bought with this merchant, both times with no problems.. and oh, im in SoCal, but the battery arrived on friday after i ordered it on monday!"
Someone said the title is misleading and to trick ppl into thinking its not really genuine... well i inspected my battery it has all the Dell markings and serial numbers and only thing is its made in china unlike my original dell battery which was made in Japan. MOST IMPORTANTLY...its been almost two months since i bought this battery and it still holds charge a very long time (5+hours with wifi!)
PS: i've now added pics of the battery i bought from genuine adapter,model kd476. YOU decide if this is a knockoff or not.note that the product pic of the
battery on sale is DIFFERENT to the one i bought from the merchant!
So I didn't really know which 6400/e1505 battery to pick as many of the reviews seem spotty and lacked actual information on the battery itself. In the end, I figured that they'd all last more or less a year of use and still be around for another $30-40 replacement, so I kind of just picked one randomly. I also had to pick the seller randomly because no one mentioned who they bought it from. Let me just say I got it from Eznsmart, who shipped it from Commerce, CA to me in a day. I live very close, but I didn't know that before.
First day I got it, I power cycled just like manual said. Took more than an hour to deplete the original charge (normal internet use, then hibernate, then sitting in BIOS) and as per the manual, it took about 5 hours to do the full charge.
It's comforting to have instructions that detail the exact mechanics and maintenance needs of the product, which I can't say for OEM products. In the end though, it just says your battery and computer are smart enough to take care of themselves that you don't need to worry about much if you use your machine and battery normally and often. The English on the manual: a couple things in the less important sections I didn't understand. If you can manage it, the Chinese will tell you exactly what they mean.
Now on the battery, it is specifically designed for 6400/e1505 and has exactly the same externals as the OEM, including a fresh rubber foot, but my computer still sits evenly with 3 old feet and one new one. It is made in China, which much like Made in the USA, can be all over the map in quality, but it's mostly on the better side. Compared to the same capacity Japan made OEM, the battery life is about a half hour less in most situations, up to three hours on idle to low use. The power has been stable and it doesn't run hotter than other batteries. After calibrating for two days, my computer accurately gauges the time left. The power indicator on the bottom of the battery also work. I mean if you really need that. I didn't even know these had one until I saw the reviews of another product said it doesn't work on that one.
Two months now, it still holds the same amount of charge, although the gauge may be off now.
Note: The pictures currently up are not of this product, but of the OEM. The only obvious visual difference is the sticker.
Pros: Little heat, stable power. Windows is accurate on time left.
Cons: Battery life not as long as OEM.
Conclusion: It's worth more than it costs and I am happy with my purchase.
System: Inspiron e1505, Intel i945PM, Core 2 Duo T5500, Radeon X1400, 7200RPM HDD, low LCD brightness, fans forced on at lower thresholds, external monitor, wired mouse, headphones. - Laptop Battery - Dell Inspiron Battery - 9-cell - Dell Laptop Battery'
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Surf Fishing
Very good book for someone that needs a little guidance on saltwater fishing. I've also fished freshwater, but have always wanted to know more about how to catch fish while vacationing at the beach. After reading this, I have more confidence in what I will be doing this coming month while surf fishing in Florida. Fishing the Local Waters: Gulf Shores to Panama City (Fishing the Local Waters series)'
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1001 Movies You Must See Before You Die - migrant workers, 10 films for photographers
MOVIE:
Terrence Malick is one of the greatest filmmakers alive, and after Sergio Leone he is my second favorite director of all time. In his career that spans almost 40 years he has only made four feature length films. What I love about Malick's films is that they are poetry; they break all the conventions of filmmaking. When you sit down to watch a Terrence Malick film you are readying yourself for an experience. The way he examines human nature in every single one of his films is extraordinary. Every one of his films also deals with man's impact on nature and he slowly erases the lines between sanity and insanity. His directorial debut was with Badlands starring Martin Sheen and Sissy Spacek; a haunting story of lovers on the run from the law. His next film is still undoubtedly one of the most moving pieces of cinema ever created, Days Of Heaven.
Days Of Heaven tells the story of Bill (Richard Gere) and Abby (Brooke Adams); two young people in love trying to make ends meet and find work. The two go around pretending to be brother and sister as to protect themselves from the outside world. At the beginning of the film Bill gets in a tussle at the steel mill and accidentally kills his boss. Now Bill, Abby and Linda (Linda Manz) hop a train to go work on a farm to harvest wheat. The story is told through Linda's perspective. Linda is the real sister of Bill and she is barely a teenager. It's interesting that Malick lets the story unfold through the eyes of an innocent child; I think it gives complex situations in the film a simpler point of view. As the story unfolds and they work on the farm Bill finds out that the owner of the farm is dying of a terminal illness. The farmer is played by Sam Shepard in his first major role. Bill hatches a plan for Abby to get the farmer to fall in love with her. That way when he dies he will leave all his assets to her and they will become rich. As can be imagined after a full year passes the farmer is still alive and tensions begin to grow that leads to an inevitable climax.
The number one aspect of this film that garners so much attention is the cinematography. The story goes that Nestor Almendros started the picture but about a fourth of the way through he had to leave due to a prior commitment. Cinematographer Haskell Wexler came in and shot the rest of the picture according to Almendros's standards, but in the end didn't receive any credit on the film. Almendros went on to win the Oscar for Best Cinematography that year. All quarrels aside one can't deny the brilliance of the film's photography. Every frame is crafted with absolute detail that in some cases will give you goose-bumps. They shot most of the film during "magic hour"; that twilight period right before the sun sets. It creates a perfect backlight that if framed correctly can create haunting silhouettes. It seems as if there is always a ring of fire on the horizon that is slowly getting closer, which it in fact does. During the scene of the locust plague a lantern breaks in the wheat fields and the entire farm erupts into flames. It symbolizes rage in the characters as tensions mount, but I don't want to spoil anything for those who want to experience the film for the first time. All in all this film is a visual feast that will stay in your mind's eye.
Since the film is extremely light on dialogue it relies on two major elements. Cinematography being the first thing I discussed and Ennio Morricone's score being the second. Morricone's incredibly dark and foreboding score is a haunting masterpiece. It underscores the human conflicts being depicted in the film and of course has tragedy spelled out plain and simple with the tone right from the beginning. The first time I saw the film I cried because of the subtle power of this Oscar nominated score. The haunting elements of it will resonate with you for quite some time, and honestly this score is the major source of emotion in the film. It accentuates Malick's themes perfectly.
So, what is this film ultimately about? One could spend all their time writing about a Terrence Malick film and every word could be wrong and right at the same time. His films need to be experienced, because it is absolutely impossible to try to describe how his films affect you. In my head I saw this film as an exploration of love and how human nature is a flaw that can allow our emotions to consume our rational side. If you've seen The Thin Red Line, Badlands or The New World then you should have a good idea of what Days Of Heaven will be like. It's a surprisingly short film at only 94 minutes, especially if you compare how long his last two films were. Thanks for sticking with me for this entire review/analysis. I really like to do more than the average critique when it comes to important films like this.
SPECIAL FEATURES:
Audio Commentary:
Since Terrance Malick is the most elusive filmmaker ever (not a single interview ever?) the commentary track features editor Bill Weber, art director Jack Fisk, costume designer Patricia Norris, and casting director Dianne Crittenden. This is a fascinating track that really delves into just how much detail can be found in every single frame of the movie; a must for film enthusiasts.
Audio Interview With Richard Gere:
An interview conducted in 2007 just for this release. Richard Gere examines how he came to doing the movie. He discusses how he really wasn't into film but rather theater. However, he saw Badlands and was immediately interested if Terrence Malick was directing. He does ramble a bit, but he does offer some insight. The fact that it's a 22 minute audio interview set to stills and footage of the movie makes it kind of a bore to sit through.
Video Interview With Sam Shepherd:
This 12 minute interview from 2002 is an interesting look at how Malick got Shepherd into acting. He talks about how he was more into writing at the time, but he decided to do it just for the hell of it.
Video Interview With John Bailey:
Bailey was Nestor Almendros's camera operator and this is by far the most interesting interview on the DVD. It's a 20 minute interview and it is incredibly in depth. He uses a lot of lingo that may go over the head of casual viewers. He explains in detail all the techniques they used and it really opens up a lot. It's a really fascinating interview that uses visual examples throughout as he talks.
Video Interview With Haskell Wexler:
Wexler was the cinematographer who took over for Almendros and in the end received no credit for his work on the film. In this 11 minute interview he explains his relationship with Malick and how he came to take over for Almendros. It's a great first hand account from the man himself.
41-Page Booklet:
The booklet contains an essay by Adrian Martin and a chapter from Nestor Almendros's autobiography.
VIDEO:
When you buy a Criterion DVD you are paying for perfection. This remastered version was supervised and approved by Terrence Malick. The original 1.78:1 aspect ratio is maintained exactly with absolutely zero flaws in the transfer. The new high definition transfer was created from a new 35mm interpositive struck from the 35mm A/B roll original negative. Thousands of instances of dirt and scratches were removed and the resolution is magnificent because they mastered the DVD at the highest bit rate possible. I just wonder when Criterion is going to make the move to Blu-ray?
AUDIO:
A brand new Dolby Digital 5.1 surround track was created for this release. The old track was tossed and this new track was remastered at 24-bits from the original 4.1 magnetic tracks. Every effort possible was implemented to reduce clicks, hiss and crackle. This is fantastic, I love Criterion so much.
BOTTOM LINE:
Days Of Heaven is one of my favorite films of all time and I certainly think it's Malick's best. The film will overwhelm you with its visual power and you certainly won't forget it. Criterion has done a great service by remastering this film and I can only hope that Malick's other films will eventually get the same treatment. Days of Heaven - Richard Gere - 10 Films For Photographers - Migrant Workers - Cinematography'
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Adapter - propane
I have owned many, many Mr. Heater products. They have ALL worked very well. If it says Mr. Heater on it, you will be happy with it. This adapter is no different. It works perfectly and I'll buy more when I need them... Mr. Heater Propane Male Throwaway Cylinder Adapter 1-20 Male Throwaway Cylinder Thread X 1/4 Inch Female Pipe Thread #F276140 - Propane'
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Seki Edge Toe Nail Clippers - seki edge, toe nail clipper
The subject of clipping toenails is not really something that I expected to be writing about. However, we all have the need to clip our toenails from time to time, and performing this task is not usually something that we look forward to. Most of us pickup a cheap set of clippers from our local pharmacy. After all, one wouldn't normally consider spending much money for a tool to perform such a menial task. Therefore we come to accept the poor cutting quality of these budget clippers. Unfortunately, for those of us with very hard nails, these cheap clippers can cause splitting and tearing of the nail, and usually leaves a rather rough edge.
After using several of these low-end clippers over the years, most of which ended up breaking before I replaced them, I decided to look for something with better build quality. I figured someone has to make a quality set of clippers that will last me for years, and I hoped that their cutting ability would be better for clipping my thick, hard nails. After searching all over the Internet, and reading countless reviews for clippers that were claimed to give excellent results, I finally decided to give the highly acclaimed Seki Edge Toe Nail Clipper (model SE-02/SS-107) a try. It set me back as much as I would normally spend for roughly 4 sets of budget clippers. Still, I had faith that it would be money well spent.
Upon receiving the new clippers and removing them from their stylish packaging, I could immediately tell that these were no ordinary toenail clippers. They are moderately heavy and have a nice satin smooth finish. The handle is thicker than budget clippers, and the spring feel of the device is firm but smooth working. When using the Seki Edge clippers for the first time, I was a bit cautious because they are extremely sharp and have an entirely different feel when cutting. They don't make a sharp "SNAP" like the low-end clippers I am used to. They cut with an almost scissor like feel. The twice tempered blades slice through the thick nails effortlessly, and leave a smooth, uniform edge. The curve of the blades makes a nice, gentle curve to the end of the nail, which follows the shape of the end of the toe almost perfectly. Another thing that impressed me was the taper of the cutting blades. This allows a precise insertion of the bottom blade under the nail, and it doesn't tend to travel too far under the nail, which would cause the user to cut the nail too short. The top push handle (or whatever you call it) of the clipper sticks up a bit higher than what I was used to with previous devices, which took a little getting used to. However, this extra height allows more leverage for your thumb, which makes each cut smooth and requires very little strength.
I have been using these new clippers for the past month or so, and I can honestly say that the Seki Edge Toe Nail Clipper is an amazing, precision tool. The blades are extremely sharp and the tool cuts clean, without any cracking, splitting or tearing of the nails. The device is very easy and safe to use. If you are used to using cheap clippers then this quality tool may take a few days or weeks to get used to, just because it has a totally different feel and angle. But once you use them a few times you will never want to use anything else.
The Seki Edge SS-107 is made of twice tempered Japanese Stainless Steel, with a Diecast lever for extra strength. The manufacturer states that the cutting edge is hand-grinded and honed for precise cutting. The lever action is smooth and easy, and the overall design is quite ergonomic. The clipper assembly measures 3.5 x 0.8 x 0.6 inches, and weighs in at roughly 3 ounces. This and all other Seki Edge model clippers and scissors come with a lifetime warranty, which covers any defects in materials or workmanship. They will repair or replace any defective tool free of charge. They will also sharpen or repair any damaged tool for free, but you must send a check for $5.00 to cover the return shipping costs. I am quite impressed with how the manufacturer stands behind its product.
I couldn't be happier with my new Seki Edge Toenail clippers. They look, feel and perform like a top quality product. They don't come cheap, but for under $20 they are really not that costly. If you think of this as a onetime investment, they will certainly pay for themselves over time, as you would likely buy several cheap clippers over your lifetime anyway. After spoiling myself with the Seki Edge SS-107 clippers, I have since purchased a set of Seki Edge fingernail clippers, and also a Seki Edge Slant Edge In-Grown Nail Clipper. They are all great products, and I no longer find nail clipping to be such an unpleasant chore. I highly recommend this toenail clipper to everyone. I think you would be hard pressed to find a better clipper on the market today. Seki Edge Toe Nail Clipper
A dirty little secret stains the neat homes that lurk behind the tree-lined streets and across the manicured lawns of suburbia: those little nail clippers you picked up at the Walgreens for $3.99 will never cut through a man's gnarled, oaken toe nails.
They'll make little cuts in it, they'll promise and fail to deliver, they'll even break apart in ashen resignation to the formidable power of the nail.
Those cheap little metal gizmos were made to sell on promise alone. You need a nail clipper that was not designed by the bean counters and the marketing wizards, but by the car guys ... I mean ... the toenail engineers.
That would be the Seki Edge.
It's not humungous. It's just made out of the kind of components and with the kind of leverage that can actually do the job on those ghastly chunks of horn that adorn our toes under the ironed dress socks and shined-up wing tips.
You don't need to tell anyone about this. In fact, you'd best not. Just buy the Seki already. The rest can remain a secret. - Seki Edge - Nail Clipper - Toe Nail Clipper - Expensive'
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Shoe Insoles - spenco, insoles
I was reluctant to spend three to four times the cost of the average "drugstore" insole for the Spenco Polysorb (tm) Total Support Premium Insole, but my aching feet and knees were crying out for solid support, so I took the plunge. Without a doubt, these are the most supportive over-the-counter insoles I've ever owned. The heel cup is particularly deep and well-molded; my near constant heel pain went away within a day and a half of using these insoles. Similarly, arch support is excellent. The design is well-thought out and, insofar as one can say an insole is attractive, its construction and appearance look great, as befits its high-end price.
The "Men's 10-11" size fit my size 10-1/2 shoes perfectly without trimming. The instructions recommend taking out the existing insole from your shoe and trimming the Total Support to fit its profile. I would suggest inserting the Total Support into your shoe first to check the fit. A lot of standard shoe insoles don't have the supportive "cupping" on the sides the Total Support has, so you could possibly cut the Total Support too narrow (and diminish the effectiveness of its "cup") if you just trace around the stock insoles. This probably varies based on the actual shoe width and its last, but it can't do any harm to check before hacking away at these expensive insoles.
Though I used the "heat in the oven" molding technique, I'm not certain it provided signficant benefits; the insole is likely to mold to your foot as well within a day or two of wearing it. However, it only takes two minutes to heat up the insoles in the oven, so it's not like you're investing a lot of time and effort in this optional step. I didn't notice any of the shrinkage some reviewers reported when using the heat molding technique. I was careful to use an oven pre-heated to warm (instructions say 185 degrees) for just two minutes, so I'm not certain the temperature got high enough to have much effect at all, much less shrink the insole.
The overall effect of adding them to my New Balance 476 trail runners was to boost the comfort and support of these good mid-range shoes to the level of the very best (and most expensive) running shoes designed for ultimate stability.
So why no five-star rating from me? Simple. These intelligently-designed, well-constructed, and outrageously comfortable insoles would be worth every penny of their premium price were it not for the fact they squawk like a tree full of crows whenever I take a step in them.
Other reviewers have reported "squeaks" from these insoles, but that term doesn't begin to describe the roar they make. If you spend your time in a noisy factory, on a casino floor, working an airport runway, or in an institution for the deaf, you and those around you might not mind the noise, but you'll be the center of unwanted attention just about anywhere else. If your occupation involves moving swiftly and silently -- say, like a secret agent -- using these insoles could jeopordize the success of your mission and perhaps the very security of our nation. If I were walking and talking instead of sitting and typing I'd have to shout to make this review heard. Well... maybe that's a bit of hyperbole, but I think you get the point: they're noisy.
I noticed other reviewers fixed this problem with duct tape. I love duct tape; with duct tape and plastic garbage bags you can do about 87% of the things worth doing in this world. But it peeved me more than a bit to think I was going to have put duct tape on my brand spanking new high-end "you spent how much on what!?" upmarket insoles just to make them work like they should out-of-the-box.
So I pulled the insoles out of the shoes repeatedly and tried to position them differently to make the foamy shriek go away. No luck. I hopped around the block a few times thinking I might be able to pound out the squishy squawk. All I did was entertain the neighbors. I even put them back in the oven at a slighty higher temperature to see if I could bake the roar away. Zero effect -- although it wasn't a total waste because I threw some potatoes in for dinner since the oven was already heated up. They were delicious!
So I went back to "Plan A" and liberally applied duct tape to these unhushed puppies. The silver gray of duct tape matches nicely with the red and blue accents of the Spenco Polysorb Total Support Premium Insole, I must say, but -- alas! -- taping 'em up like a 43-year-old quarterback on game day did nothing to silence them. By now my wife, who usually observes my antics with private amusement, was laughing openly at my efforts to tame these squalling insoles.
That's why I snuck around to the back of the house out of her sight to whack 'em a few times with a five-pound sledge. I figured if I could speed up the breaking in process a bit, maybe they'd settle down.
Nope.
I'm defeated. Don't get me wrong. I still love these insoles. If I were bit more of a geezer than I am, I'd just turn down my hearing aid and ignore the squeaks (along with most of my relatives). It would be worth it just to have the Spenco Polysorb Total Support Premium Insole caressing my tired feet in their inimitable manner. But I'm still able to hear a lot more than I care to and the sound of the soles is something I can't live with.
Sorry, honey, it's over. It's not you, it's me. My feet are telling me we're meant for each other, but my ears say otherwise. You were probably too good for me anyway; I'll likely end up with another set of those $7.99 downmarket floozies off the rack at CVS that I'll throw away in six weeks and replace with more of the same. They don't make me feel like you make me feel, but, honestly, maybe I'm just not ready for all you have to say.
I will always love you, though, and think fondly of the time we had together. Now get back in the box, please. You're being returned to your maker.
Note to Spenco product designers: if you were trying to make the world's loudest insoles, please accept my apologies for assuming otherwise and I commend you on a job well done! If not, why not go back to drawing board on these and get it right? The comfort and support part you just completely nailed. Really good stuff. Fix the noisemaking and you likely will have created the greatest over-the-counter insole on the planet. Get crackin'!
***AN UPDATE
After corresponding with Spenco, I can truly say they stand behind (on top of?) their insoles. The problem with "squeaking" (roaring, squawking, whatever...) is known to the good folks at Spenco and is an issue mostly with shoes that have EVA soles, which my New Balance trail runners do indeed.
They suggest talcum powder as a noise reducer. It works! It will have to be replenished periodically, but that's a small price to pay for the comfort these insoles provide.
Spenco also sent me gratis an additional two sets of Polysorb (tm) Total Support Premium Insoles for my trouble and for making them laugh with this review. So I put the new ones into two other pairs of shoes -- a Bass boat shoe (no, not shoes to wear in a bass boat -- "Bass" is the brand) and a Saucony running shoe. Neither had EVA soles and neither made a hint of noise.
In fact, the only thing you could hear is me saying "Ahhhhh... that feels goooooooood..." with each step. Get yourself some of these and see what I mean. And grab some baby powder while you're at it. Even if you don't need to put it on the Total Supports in your EVA-soled shoes, it feels good on your feet and makes 'em smell nice.
Amazon won't let me change my star rating, but it's now a solid "5"! Spenco Polysorb Total Support, Women's 11-12 / Men's 10-11 - Insoles - Orthotics - Spenco - Plantar Fasciitis'
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Collectors Item - collectors item, collectible
The chainsaw itself looks beautiful. To see a replica of an instrument of destruction, covered in murderous streaks of crimson gore, in a well designed display case, is admirable and humorous.
The chainsaw blade shines with its mirror-like finish, beneath the streaks of blood splattered about it. The body of the chainsaw again has droplets of blood EVERYWHERE on it (great attention to detail), which also make each unit unique in its splatter design. I was especially impressed with the bloody fingerprints on both handles of the chainsaw, and on the underside where you will place your fingers. The blood only felt a little sticky on the tops of the analog sticks.
There is a ripcord on the top of the chainsaw, which also functions as the Start button (quite novel!), that starts a short chainsaw sounding roar and rumble feature within the unit. Very excellent collector's item, the unit looks great, and the display case only adds to it. Where else do you see a blood-dripping chainsaw blade emerge from the side of a display case?
However, once I fired this puppy up, I understood why such attention was given to the appearance and collectibility side of the unit. The chainsaw is incredibly uncomfortable to use as a controller for RE4. The N-Motion feature excited me most. I mistakenly imaged this feature would allow you to move Leon's laser targeting on-screen as you moved the chainsaw around in your hands. It doesn't. Instead, by holding the chainsaw blade straight forward to approximately 45 degrees downward, a mechanism in the unit will activate the R1 button for you, which puts Leon into targeting mode, and you then aim with the analog stick, as normal. To have him release the targeting, and return to normal walking mode, you must position the chainsaw blade straight down (or less then 45 degrees upwards).
This makes the unit uncomfortable for several reasons. First, you can't play this sitting on the floor or in a recliner. You need to hold this against your belly with your legs open to allow you to lower the chainsaw blade. Second, trying to reach the XOTS buttons and left analog stick while pointing the unit straight down is both hard and painful. You spend the majority of the game running, yet can't reach these buttons comfortably now. The first batch of villagers I encountered while using this controller quickly tore me apart (and I have played through the game numerous times).
The controller would be a bigger nightmare for any other games with its awkward button fingering (L2 and R2 are used by pushing on the unit with the BACKS of your middle fingers), and Select and Start being so far away from the main buttons. And the N-Motion feature (remember, all it does is activate R1), needs to be switched off to use the controller otherwise.
Overall it's a beautiful unit and collector's piece, but incredibly poor as a functional game controller. It did not make me want to play my RE4 game, it made me want to turn it off completely. Playstation 2 Resident Evil 4 Chainsaw Controller
Great to look at, but cumbersome to play with extendedly. More for looks and laughes. The supposed motion activate that raises Leon's gun doesnt work. If your a Resident Evil fan and collector, this is a great addition to your collection. If your looking for a game controller, this isnt your best option.
The most awesome controller you will ever see. It is a little difficult to get use to when you first start but once your use to it, it kicks A$$. the start button is the rip cord and it vibrates and makes chainsaw sounds. when using it for the game u can set it so when you raise it up Leon raises his gun. By far the coolest controller ever
I think the title makes it quite clear. It looks beautiful, it would make a great gift for hardcore resident evil fan.
As for a usable ps2 controller its impossible to use and very cumbersome.
I still love it though.
If you are a Resident Evil Fan and a collector like me, you will understand that even though it is not the most user friendly controller, this is a must have for your collection. With only a limited number of these made for each platform, if you are a die hard fan, get your hands on one today and enjoy.
All my friends saw this controller and wanted to play Resident Evil with it. It takes time to get use to it but once you get involved it's like your holding the ultimate weapon. If you are a fan of Resident Evil you must pick this controller up. Also comes with it's case. The best looking controller that fit the game of RESIDENT EVIL
I bought this because I am a fan of the Resident Evil Series and I wasn't disappointed!!! (Well maybe in the price a little)
The Chainsaw about 30cms long and the most cutest weapon I've ever seen. The actual blade doesn't rotate (sorry guys) but it has evey button of a normal PS2 controller. It even contains a rotor wire to 'turn on' the controller. It also has a motion sensor that allows Leon to copy your movements on the game.
The packaging is lovely too, it doesn't come in normal wrapping it is housed in its own special hard plastic case with a booklet and info slip.
Also each chainsaw has its own unique blood splatter.
Plus it has two gorgeous piccys of the gorgeous bishonen Leon.
This is a must get for any RE fans or anyone (like me on both accounts) who has a love for grusome weapons.
Yeah, so it's big, it's clunky, and it feels odd to hold, but what would you expect from a chansaw controller!
This thing is awesome to hold and a blast to show off. People get a kick out of the whirring chainsaw sound when you pull the chord and the blood splatters are unique to every different controller.
This is a must for any RE4 or horror game fan. - Ps2 Games - Tanner - Collectors Item - Collectible'
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