Tech meets Fashion: The Casio AE-1000W-4BVCF Orange Watch

Happy New Year to everyone. For my first post this year, I'm writing about one of my favorite everyday watches, the reliable, multi-functional Casio AE-1000W-4BVCF in orange color.

Features and Specifications:

Case and Material:

• Case size (LWH): 48.2 × 45 × 13.8 mm
• Case, bezel and Band Material : Resin
• Weight : 40g
• Water resistance : 100-meter water resistance

Major Functions:

• Multi Time (4 different cities)
• World Time - 
• 31 time zones (48 cities + coordinated universal time), daylight saving on/off, Home city/World time city swapping
• 1/100th-second stopwatch,
• Stopwatch measuring capacity: 23:59'59.99''
• Measuring modes: Elapsed time, split time, 1st-2nd place times
• Countdown timer Unit: 1/10 second
• Countdown timer range: 24 hours
• Countdown start time setting range: 1 minute to 24 hours (1-minute increments and 1-hour increments)
• 5 daily alarms or one-time alarms
• Full auto-calendar (to year 2099)
• LED light Selectable illumination duration, afterglow Light color
• 12/24-hour format
• Accuracy: ±30 seconds per month
• Telememo
• Mem capacity: Up to 30 Sets of Data, with 8 character name and 16-digit tel no.
• Analog: 2 hands (hour, minute (hands move every 20 seconds))
• Digital: Hour, minute, second, pm, month, date, day

Power Supply

• Battery: CR2025
• Battery Life: Approx. 10 years

Dimensions

• Weight: 49 grams

Additional Features

• Classic analog-digital display

What I like about the Casio HDC-700-1AVCF.

• Most of the functionality written above.
• I Love the display with the world map on the left, and the Analog display on the right that looks like a Radar making this watch unique.
• Provides accurate timekeeping, has multiple time zones, a stopwatch, a countdown timer, and an LED backlight.
• 
  

What I don't like.

• The Countdown Timer doesn't have an auto-repeat
• Resin glass prone to scratches
• 
  
  
  
  

I've had this watch for over a year now, and like my other Casio watches, I have never had any issues with it.  This watch is a digital quartz watch that offers a lot of features for a low price. 

The Casio AE-1000W-4BVCF, affectionately nicknamed the "Royale Orange," is a watch that punches far above its weight class. Don't let the modest $20 price tag fool you; this resin-clad timepiece packs a surprising punch of features and personality.

It has a world map and time display, a stopwatch, a timer, and 5 alarms. The watch has an orange resin band and a black/silver two-tone case. The display is large and clear, with a mini-dial and a mini-map that shows the current time zone. The watch is easy to use and adjust, with four buttons and a light function. All of these features are surprisingly easy to navigate through the intuitive button setup, even for those of us who struggle with anything more complex than a microwave timer.

Casio didn't skimp on the durability department. The resin case feels surprisingly solid, and the 100-meter water resistance means you can take this bad boy from the boardroom to the beach without breaking a sweat (or a crystal). The battery life is also a beast, with Casio promising a decade of ticking before you need to crack it open.

The AE-1000W isn't perfect. The digital time display can be a bit small for some, the world time abbreviations can be cryptic at times, and the one that is important to me, is there is no Auto-Repeat feature on the countdown timer. But these are minor quibbles in the face of the watch's overall charm and value.

Overall, I highly recommend the Casio AE-1000W-4BVCF (Royale Orange), is a watch that delivers more than what you pay for. It is perfect for those with a global lifestyle or travel plans. It is a watch that you can wear for a long time without worrying about changing batteries or damaging it. If you are looking for a watch that has a lot of features, a cool design, and a low price, the Casio AE-1000W-4BVCF might be the one for you.

Ka Tato's Corner January 10, 2024

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HP Chromebook - 15-de0021cl: A Sleek and Reliable Laptop for Chrome OS Lovers

 

Today I'm writing about my HP Chromebook  Model:15-de0021cl. This Chromebook was released by HP  in the summer of 2019, around  four years ago. It is a laptop with 15.6-inc touch screen, an Intel Core i3, 4GB of RAM, and 128 GB of eMMC storage. 

Hardware Specification:

• Product number: 6MX43UA
• Product name : HP Chromebook - 15-de0021cl
• Microprocessor : Intel® Core™ i3-8130U (2.2 GHz base frequency, up to 4 GHz with Intel® Turbo Boost Technology, 4 MB cache, 2 cores)
• Chipset : Intel® Integrated SoC
• Memory, standard : 4 GB DDR4-2133 SDRAM (onboard)
• Video graphics : Intel® UHD Graphics 620, Integrated
• Hard drive : 128 GB eMMC
• Optical drive: Optical drive not included
• Display : 15.6" diagonal FHD IPS BrightView micro-edge WLED-backlit touch screen (1920 x 1080)
• Wireless connectivity : Intel® Wireless-AC 7265 802.11ac (2x2) Wi-Fi® and Bluetooth® 4.2 Combo
• Expansion slots: 1 microSD media card reader
• External ports : 2 USB 3.1 Gen 1 Type-C™ (5 Gb/s signaling rate, Power Delivery 3.0, HP Sleep and Charge); 1 USB 3.1 Gen 1 Type-A (HP Sleep and Charge)
• Minimum dimensions (W x D x H) : 35.8 x 24.6 x 1.79 cm
• Weight : 1.81 kg
• Power supply type : 45 W USB Type-C™ adapter
• Battery type : 3-cell, 60 Wh Li-ion
• Webcam : HP Wide Vision HD Camera with integrated dual array digital microphone
• Audio features : B&O, dual speakers
• Operating System :  Chrome OS

The  HP Chromebook  15-de0021cl is a budget friendly laptop, that offers excellent performance. It is powered by a Intel Core i3-8130U (2.2 GHz base frequency, up to 4 GHz with Intel Turbo Boost Technology, 4 MB cache, 2 cores), 4GB of RAM and 128GB of storage, which is still a lot even in today's standard and a Full HD Display. 

What I Like:

• The build is nice. Feels sturdy and durable
• Full HD display
• Good Performance
• Long Battery Life
• Touchscreen Display
• 2 USB-C and
• Supports Power Delivery 3.o
• Supports Google Play
• Supports Built-in Linux Box
• Compatible with most USB-C Laptop Docking that Supports the PD protocol
• Micro SD Card Slot

What I don't like:

• I find it a little heavy

Overall, the HP Chromebook 15-de0021cl is a good choice for students, budget-minded users, or anyone who just needs a laptop on the go that can handle everyday tasks. It is a good value for the price and offers good performance for its specs.

I'm an Android Phone user, and having Google Play on my HP Chromebook allows me to install and use the same apps I have on my phone. I also have Linux Box enabled so I can install desktop apps like Mozilla Firefox, Brave, and Libre Office.  One upgrade I made was to get the HP Thunderbolt Dock 120W with HDMI Adapter, Universal USB-C Docking Station, this lets me use my HP Chromebook with Dual Monitors, an external keyboard, and a mouse, I can hook it up to my switch via RJ45 ethernet wired connection.

Recommendation:

After having two Chromebooks, the Thinkpad 13 Chromebook and this one the HP Chromebook 15-de0021cl, I think, for now, I wouldn't be getting any Chromebooks, not for a long time. Unless Google removes the update limitation, Google makes Chrome OS Flex available to End of Life Chromebooks. My Thinkpad 13 Chromebook stopped getting updates last July, and this Chromebook will stop getting updates in the summer of 2025. I feel that Google must still support older hardware, just like in Windows. At least with Windows-based computers, I can install a Linux distro on older computers seamlessly. Also, the prices of Chromebooks are getting expensive, and none of the hardware is upgradable (cannot add ram and replace ssds). So for now I won't be buying any Chromebooks

Ka Tato's Corner November 23, 2023

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Casio HDC-700-1AVCF Review: A Durable, Reliable, and Accurate Watch for Everyday Wear

Today, I'm writing about my Casio HDC-700-1AVCF. Like any other Casio in the market the HDC-700-1AVCF is a tough watch. It is made of a heavy-duty resin watch which makes it durable and very reliable and it also looks good. 

First the Features and Specifications:

Case and Bezel

• Material: Resin
• Case Size (LWH): 53.3 mm x 48.8 mm x 16.6 mm
• Water Resistance: 100 meters (330 feet)

Band : Resin

Functions:

• World Time - 29 time zones (30 cities), Daylight saving on/off
• 1/100th-second stopwatch,
• Stopwatch measuring capacity: 23:59'59.99''
• Measuring modes: Elapsed time, split time, 1st-2nd place times
• Countdown timer Unit: 1 second
• Countdown timer range: 24 hours
• Countdown start time setting range: 1 minute to 24 hours (1-minute increments and 1-hour increments)
• 3 daily alarms with 1 snooze alarm
• Full auto-calendar (to year 2099)
• LED backlight with afterglow
• 12/24-hour format
• Accuracy: ±30 seconds per month
• Telememo
• Mem capacity: Up to 30 Sets of Data, with 8 character name and 16-digit tel no.
• Analog: 2 hands (hour, minute (hands move every 20 seconds))
• Digital: Hour, minute, second, pm, month, date, day

Power Supply

• Battery: CR2025
• Battery Life: Approx. 10 years

Dimensions

• Weight: 49 grams

Additional Features

• Classic analog-digital display

What I like about the Casio HDC-700-1AVCF.

• Most of the functionality written above.

What I don't like.

• The Countdown Timer doesn't have auto-repeat
• Only 3 Alarms instead of 5
• Resin glass prone to scratches
• Led backlight, is not so bright.

This watch is a great all-around, everyday watch. Like most Casio watches, it is durable, water-resistant, and has tons of useful features, including 10 years battery life, world time, multiple alarms, stop watch, countdown timer, and an Analog Digital display. Before I forget, the Casio HDC-700-1AVCF is available in 3 Colors, the Black Silver, Tan, and Black Green. 

Casio HDC-700-1ACF Black/Green

This watch looks great and feels good on my arms. It's durable, and provides reliable time, it can be worn everyday and never fails. With the 10 year battery I won't have to worry about charging or replacing the battery anytime soon and the best part of it is the affordable price.

If you are looking for an everyday work watch, look no further. The Casio HDC-700-1ACF is a very good choice.

At the time of this writing it is available at Amazon for only $31.92

Ka Tato's Corner November 17, 2023

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IMUSA Light Cast Iron Pre-Seasoned Non-Stick Saute Pan with Stainless Steel Handle 11-Inch, Black

I bought my IMUSA Light Cast Iron Saute Pan, three years ago, I bought it for two reasons, first, we needed a new and lighter saute pan and second out of curiosity. I wanted to learn what a light cast iron is and I wanted to experience using it.

Before I continue, let me tell you a little something about the  IMUSA USA Light Cast Iron:

• Material: Light Cast iron
• Coating: Pre-seasoned with soybean oil
• Dimensions: 11 inches in diameter
• Handle length: 8.75 inches
• Weight: Approximately 4.5 pounds
• Heat source compatibility: All stovetops, including induction
• Oven safety: Yes, oven safe up to 500°F

It also features an extended stainless steel handle for stable and secure handling. Lightweight construction for easy maneuvering, very durable, I use it every day and it's as good as new.

What is a light cast iron?  A lightweight cast iron is a type of cookware that combines the benefits of traditional cast iron with a lighter and more manageable weight. It is made by using a thinner cast iron mold and sometimes milling the pan further to reduce its thickness. Light cast iron pans are typically 20-30% lighter than traditional counterparts, but despite being lightweight, light cast iron pans retain many of the same advantages as traditional cast iron including:

• Excellent heat retention
• Durability 
• Non-Stick surface
• Versatility

The IMUSA Light Cast Iron Pre-Seasoned Non-Stick Saute Pan with Stainless Steel Handle offers several advantages over other saute pans out there:

• Lighter weight: Unlike traditional cast iron cookware, which can be heavy and cumbersome, this pan is lightweight and easy to handle. This makes it a great option for those who want the benefits of cast iron without the drawbacks.
• Pre-seasoned non-stick surface: The pan's pre-seasoned non-stick surface makes cooking a breeze. Food effortlessly releases from the pan, preventing sticking and burning. This also eliminates the need for harsh chemicals or excessive oil, promoting healthier cooking practices.
• Durability: Cast iron is known for its exceptional durability. It can withstand high heat, making it ideal for searing meats and creating flavorful sauces. It can also be used on all stovetops, including induction, and can even transition seamlessly from stovetop to oven for baking or broiling.
• Versatility: This pan can be used for a variety of cooking tasks, including searing, sauteing, pan-frying, and even deep-frying. It's a versatile tool that can handle a wide range of culinary creations.
• Easy care and maintenance: Unlike nonstick pans with chemical coatings that can deteriorate over time, cast iron pans only require simple care and maintenance. Hand washing with warm, soapy water and drying thoroughly after each use will keep your pan in top condition for years to come.
• Healthier cooking: Cast iron pans are naturally non-stick, so you don't need to rely on harsh chemicals or excessive oil to prevent food from sticking. This promotes healthier cooking practices and allows you to enjoy the flavor of your food without added fats.
• Environmentally friendly: Cast iron pans are incredibly durable and can last for generations with proper care. This makes them a sustainable choice for cookware, reducing the need to replace pans frequently and minimizing waste.
• Investment in quality: Cast iron cookware is an investment in quality that will provide years of reliable performance and culinary enjoyment. It's a worthwhile addition to any kitchen, whether you're a seasoned chef or a novice home cook.

If you are looking for a durable, versatile, and easy-to-care-for pan that is well-suited for use in a professional restaurant kitchen, then the IMUSA USA S Light Cast Iron Pre-Seasoned Non-Stick Saute Pan with Stainless Steel Handle 11-Inch, Black is a great option.

Ka Tato's Corner November 15, 2023

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The History of Philippine Cuisine

The Philippines, an archipelago of over 7,000 islands, stands as a vibrant mosaic of cultures, each contributing to the rich selection of Filipino cuisine. Its flavors, aromas, and textures tell a story of adaptation, resilience, and the harmonious blend of diverse influences that have shaped the culinary landscape of the nation. The cuisine is a fascinating blend of indigenous flavors, Spanish influences from centuries of colonization, Asian elements, and even traces of American impact.

Island Philippines

Image by Guy Goddard from Pixabay

The indigenous roots of Philippine cuisine are deeply embedded in the archipelago's natural resources. Before the arrival of foreign influences, Filipino tribes relied on locally available ingredients like rice, fish, tropical fruits, and various root crops. Cooking methods such as boiling, roasting, and steaming were employed, laying the foundation for what would evolve into a unique culinary tradition.

Image by Sasin Tipchai from Pixabay

The arrival of the Austronesians(earliest known inhabitants) marks the beginning of Philippine culinary. These seafaring migrants, hailing from Taiwan and southern China, brought with them their culinary traditions and agricultural practices, establishing the foundations of Filipino cuisine. Staple ingredients like rice, root crops, and seafood were introduced, along with cooking techniques such as steaming, boiling, and roasting over open fires.

From the 2nd century AD onwards, trade with China flourished, opening a gateway for culinary exchange that left an indelible mark on Filipino cuisine. Chinese merchants introduced ingredients like soy sauce, vinegar, noodles, and various spices, which found their way into Filipino dishes, adding complexity and depth to flavors. Chinese cooking techniques, such as stir-frying and deep-frying, were also adopted, giving rise to dishes like pancit, a stir-fried noodle dish, and lumpia, a spring roll-like dish, which showcase the enduring influence of Chinese cuisine.

Spanish Colonization in the Philippines

The arrival of Spanish colonizers in the 16th century marked a significant turning point in the evolution of Filipino cuisine. Spanish ingredients like tomatoes, potatoes, onions, garlic, and chili peppers entered the Filipino kitchen, revolutionizing flavors and cooking techniques. Spanish culinary methods, such as stewing, braising, and baking, were adopted, giving rise to dishes like adobo, a savory stew of meat or seafood, and relleno de pollo, a stuffed chicken dish. The technique of marinating meat in vinegar, soy sauce, and garlic, known as adobo, is a culinary legacy of Spanish influence. The use of achiote seeds for coloring and the concept of tapas also made their mark on Filipino gastronomy.

The Galleon Trade between Manila and Acapulco further enriched the culinary landscape. It brought in new ingredients, particularly from Mexico, that seamlessly integrated into local dishes. The amalgamation of these diverse elements led to the creation of iconic Filipino dishes like sinigang, a sour tamarind-based soup, and kare-kare, a savory oxtail stew with a peanut sauce.

The Philippines' exposure to American and Mexican cultures during the 20th century further enriched its culinary landscape. American ingredients like corn, processed foods, and chili peppers introduced new flavors and textures, leading to the creation of dishes like afritada, a stew of pork, vegetables, and tomato sauce, and menudo, a rich pork and vegetable stew. Mexican cuisine also left its mark, with dishes like lumpia shanghai, a variant of the spring roll, and tacos al pastor, a pork taco with pineapple, showcasing this culinary exchange. Also, The introduction of canned goods, processed meats, and new cooking techniques influenced the way Filipinos prepared their meals. Fast food culture, notably with the popularity of American-style burgers and fried chicken, became a significant part of urban Filipino life.

Despite foreign influences, Philippine cuisine has retained its distinct identity, characterized by the use of bold flavors, tropical ingredients, and a communal approach to dining. The Filipino table is a reflection of the nation's warmth and hospitality, where sharing meals is a cultural tradition that transcends social boundaries.

In recent years, there has been a renewed interest in traditional Filipino cooking, with chefs and food enthusiasts rediscovering and celebrating indigenous ingredients and culinary techniques. This revival not only preserves the authenticity of Filipino cuisine but also contributes to the global recognition of its unique flavors.

Today, Filipino cuisine stands as a vibrant and dynamic tapestry, a testament to the country's rich cultural heritage. It is a cuisine that celebrates fresh, local ingredients, bold flavors, and a harmonious balance of sweet, sour, and salty tastes. Dishes like adobo, sinigang, a sour soup, kare-kare, a rich oxtail stew with vegetables, lumpia, and halo-halo, a refreshing shaved ice dessert, have become iconic symbols of Filipino culinary identity.

Filipino cuisine is more than just food; it is a reflection of the Filipino spirit – warm, welcoming, and adaptable. It is a cuisine that has embraced diverse influences and transformed them into something uniquely Filipino, a testament to the country's resilience and cultural richness. As the Philippines continues to evolve, its cuisine will undoubtedly continue to adapt and flourish, captivating taste buds worldwide with its unique blend of flavors, aromas, and textures – a culinary legacy that will continue to inspire culinary imaginations for generations to come.

Ka Tato's Corner November 12, 2023

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What is Philippine Cuisine?

Philippine cuisine also known as Filipino cuisine (Lutuing Pinoy) is a diverse and flavorful blend of influences from Austronesian, Malay, Spanish, Chinese, American, and Mexican cultures. It is characterized by its use of sour, sweet, and salty flavors, as well as its emphasis on fresh ingredients. Some of the most popular Filipino dishes include adobo, sinigang, kare-kare, lumpia, and halo-halo.  

Lechon Kawali

Photo by AMANDA LIM:

Filipino cuisine is often described as a "melting pot" of flavors, and this is due to the country's long history of trade and interaction with other cultures. The Austronesian people, who are the original inhabitants of the Philippines, brought with them their own cooking techniques and ingredients. The Malay people, who also settled in the Philippines, introduced their own dishes, such as rendang and satay. The Spanish, who colonized the Philippines for over 300 years, introduced their own ingredients, such as tomatoes, potatoes, and onions. The Chinese, who have had a significant presence in the Philippines for centuries, introduced their own dishes, such as stir-fries and dumplings. The Americans, who ruled the Philippines for a short period of time, introduced their own dishes, such as hamburgers and hotdogs. And the Mexicans, who also had a presence in the Philippines, introduced their own dishes, such as tacos and burritos.

Eggplant For Tortang Talong
Photo by AMANDA LIM

As a result of all of these influences, Filipino cuisine is a unique and diverse blend of flavors. It is a cuisine that is both unique and tasty, and it is sure to wow even the most experienced foody.

Ka Tato's Corner November 11, 2023

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Protecting Your Gear: The Lowepro Flipside 400 AW's Security Features

As a photographer, I've used a variety of camera backpacks over the years, but none have impressed me as much as the Lowepro Flipside 400 AW Pro DSLR Camera Backpack. This backpack has features that make it ideal for various photographic pursuits, from travel photography, and wildlife photography to sports photography.

This camera backpack became my favorite camera bag right from the beginning. I bought it when I started to venture into high school sports photography 11 years ago. The Lowepro Flipside 400 AW Pro DSLR Camera Backpack is a versatile and durable backpack for photographers of all levels. It offers a variety of features that make it easy to carry and protect your gear, even in challenging conditions. The signature Flipside design provides quick and easy access to your gear, and the All Weather AW Cover protects your gear from the elements. The high-capacity dynamic storage system can adapt to fit a variety of gear, and the separate CradleFit™ compartments protect your laptop and tablet in a suspended position. The dedicated tripod attachment system and stretch mesh side pockets provide additional storage options. The removable padded accessory pouch is ideal for storing smaller items. The moisture-wicking back panel keeps you cool and comfortable when wearing the backpack.

Specifications:

• Brand: Lowepro
• Model: Flipside 400 AW Pro
• Color: Black
• Product Dimensions: 10 x 11.9 x 18.1 inches
• Capacity: 400 cubic inches
• Weight: 3.5 pounds

This backpack also has a comfortable and adjustable harness system that distributes the weight of the backpack evenly across your shoulders and back. It also has a waist belt that helps to stabilize the backpack and reduce the load on your shoulders.

Back when I was shooting high school sports, this backpack is filled with 2 Canon Camera Bodies, a Canon EOS 7D MK1, a Canon EOS 60D or the original Canon EOS 5D, and several lenses, the Canon EF 50mm F/1.4, Tokina AF 16-28mm f/2.8 at-X PRO FX Lens, Canon EF 70-200mm F/2.8 L Lens and the Canon EF 400mm F/5.6 L Lens and I also have two Canon Speedlite several other stuff like batteries, cables, lens hoods and caps.

Canon Gear inside

Nowadays, this is still my primary backpack, but instead of carrying big canon gear, I use it to carry my Fujifilm Cameras and Lenses.

Flipside 400 with Fujifilm Mirrorless Camera gear

Overall, the Lowepro Flipside 400 AW Pro DSLR Camera Backpack is a versatile and protective backpack ideal for photographers of all levels. It offers a variety of features that make it easy to carry and protect your gear, even in challenging conditions.

If you're looking for a reliable and protective backpack for your camera gear, the Lowepro Flipside 400 AW Pro is a great option to consider. It's perfect for travel photography, landscape photography, street photography, and wildlife photography.

I'm not sure if this line of Lowepro Bags are still available for sale, but you can Amazon to see if they still have the Lowepro Flipside series of Camera Backpacks.

Ka Tato's Corner November 09, 2023

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Breville Smart Oven Pro Toaster Oven, Brushed Stainless Steel, BOV845BSS

 When we started in the restaurant business 5 years ago, we needed a toaster for occasional use since we don't serve dishes that will require us to use an oven toaster daily, but still we need one. So I started to shop for one, our criteria are simple, small, reliable, and affordable. Small because our kitchen is small and it must fit under the prep table.

In my search, I found the Breville Smart Oven Pro Toaster Oven, Brushed Stainless Steel, BOV845BSS, this fits in my criteria. Its small size allowed me to put it under the prep table, it is durable and reliable enough based on our usage at the restaurant.

Before anything else, let me tell you something about the Breville Smart Oven Pro. It is a powerful and versatile countertop oven that can handle a variety of cooking tasks. It has a capacity of 1 cubic foot and can toast up to 6 slices of bread at a time. The oven comes with a variety of features, including:

• Element iQ Technology: This technology uses 5 independent quartz elements and smart algorithms to steer power to where and when it's needed to create the ideal cooking environment for perfect results every time.
• Convection Setting: This setting reduces cooking time by up to 30%.
• 10 Smart Cooking Functions: Toast, bagel, bake, roast, slow cook, warm, pizza, reheat, frozen, and air fry.
• Interior Oven Light
• 1800 Watt Preheat: Gets your meals on the table more quickly.
• Easy-to-Clean Interior: Wipes clean with a damp cloth.
• Removable Crumb Tray: For easy cleanup.

Specifications:

• Brand: Breville
• Model: BOV845BSS
• Color: Brushed Stainless Steel
• Product Dimensions: 14.5"D x 18.5"W x 11"H
• Capacity: 1 Cubic Feet
• Weight: 23.8 pounds
• Power Consumption: 1800 watts
• Warranty: 1 year

The Breville Smart Oven Pro Toaster Oven, Brushed Stainless Steel, BOV845BSS is a high-quality appliance that is designed for home use. While it is a durable and well-made product, it is not specifically designed to withstand the rigors of a commercial kitchen. The oven's interior is coated with a nonstick surface that could be damaged by frequent use and high temperatures. Additionally, the oven's delicate controls could be easily damaged by spills and splashes. As I mentioned above, we don't use this heavily in the restaurant kitchen. 

If I need a toaster for commercial use I would go with other brands which typically have a heavier-duty construction and are designed to withstand the abuse of a commercial kitchen. These oven toasters are designed for commercial use and have the features that I need to keep up with the demands of a busy restaurant kitchen.

However, for the home kitchen, this Smart Oven Pro Toaster model BOV845BSS is a perfect choice and will last a long time.

If you want to check out The Breville Smart Oven Pro Toaster Oven, Brushed Stainless Steel, BOV845BSS. It's available on Amazon.

Ka Tato's Corner November 08, 2023

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SE Outdoor Tanto Knife with Firestarter: A Reliable and Affordable Survival Knife

Long ago, I got into buying fixed-blade knives and multi-tools. I don't buy the expensive ones, I go for the ones that are affordable, durable, and reliable. I also like the small form factors fixed blades, because I include them in IPAKs (Individual First Aid Kits) that I put together for myself, and my family members.

SE Outdoor Tanto Knife with Firestarter - KHK6320

In the winter of 2014, I bought the SE Outdoor Tanto Knife with Firestarter - KHK6320 from Amazon, At that time I was looking for a cheap knife that I could stick inside my Lowepro Flipside 400 AW Camera bag. At that time, I shot a lot of high school sports, and I found that it is always helpful to have a knife handy than a multi-tool. Another reason I bought it is the price, it was less than $7. I didn't expect much, but, it has proven itself after so many years of usage.

First, let me tell you some key facts about this knife. The SE Outdoor Tanto Knife with Firestarter - KHK6320 is a versatile and affordable tool that can come in handy for outdoor enthusiasts and survivalists alike. The knife has a full-tang stainless steel blade with a thickness of 4mm and a length of 7 inches. The blade shape is a Tanto, which is ideal for piercing, sawing, and cutting. The handle is wrapped in a nylon rope which makes it easy to grip and can actually be useful in a pinch. The knife comes with a fitted nylon sheath so it won’t cut your things if you throw it in a bag.

SE Outdoor Tanto Knife with Firestarter - KHK6320

In addition to the knife, the package also includes a magnesium alloy firestarter. To use the fire starter, you need to run the knife against it. This then throws a lot of sparks – more than many similar designs in fact – and these can be used to start a fire if you have a pile of flammable materials. I have not tried using this particular ferro rod, but it seems like the others that you can buy anywhere else. 

SE Outdoor Tanto Knife inside one of my IPAK

Considering its features and quality, the SE Outdoor Tanto Knife with Firestarter is reasonably priced. It's a great value for those who need a reliable outdoor tool without breaking the bank. You can now get it for $12.99 from Amazon.

This is a great tool for outdoor enthusiasts and survivalists. It is versatile, affordable, and well-designed. Whether you are going on a camping trip or just need a reliable knife for everyday use, the SE Outdoor Tanto Knife with Firestarter - KHK6320 is definitely worth buying. I've had this knife for 9 years, now and it is still as reliable as ever, I have maybe sharpened it 6 times, and it holds its edge for an extended period of time. One thing I don't like about this knife is, it hurts my hand if I use it for a long time. One thing I want to do with this knife is to replace the nylon rope with a paracord, this may make it easier for my hand to grip and won't hurt so much. The paracord is more durable than the nylon rope.

You can buy the  SE Outdoor Tanto Knife with Firestarter - KHK6320 from Amazon for $12.99 at the time of this writing.

Ka Tato's Corner November 08, 2023

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