Backpacking Background:

Field Testing Information

The test series begins as the vernal equinox marks the official beginning of spring in this part of the world.  Although if you look out the window, it's plain to see we're still in the throes of winter in Northeast United States.  The average daily temperatures are around 25F (C). We've had snowfall daily for the last two weeks.

I have trips planned at least once a month throughout the testing period with the Boy Scouts. I also have some personal treks planned, as well. The stomping grounds will be in Western New York, Northern Pennsylvania, and the Adirondack Mountains.  Elevations for testing will be between 200 and 400 ft (60–120 m), except for the Adirondack region - 4,000-5,000 ft (1.2-1.5 km).  All the terrain is considered heavily forested, except when above the tree-line. 

Tape Arrival and Description

Four rolls of McNett's Tenacious Sealing and Repair Tape shipped for this test series.  Each roll was packaged individually as it would be for retail sale and each arrived in perfect condition.

The tape is shipped in its own storage tube.  The tube is light blue in color and translucent.  The tube contains a unique threading system, whereby it cannot be simply pulled apart.  Instead, each half unthreads to expose the roll of Tenacious Sealing and Repair tape stored inside.  Upon initial examination, I feel the tube offers excellent protection for the roll of tape.  After the tape is gone, the tube could be used of other purposes.  One application might be to store stick matches in my backpack.

The tape itself comes shipped on backing paper.  The backing paper contains the McNett logo.  It must be removed from the tape first, thus exposing the glue side, before application.

Beginning Tests - How It Works

Below are the directions included on the rear side of the packaging:

Directions:

Prep: Clean and dry area to be repaired.  Trim loose threads, join torn edges of material.  Cut patch to overlap damaged area by at least 1 inch in all directions.  Round patch corners.

Apply:  Peel off backing and apply to damaged area.  Apply pressure from center out to eliminate air bubbles.  For maximum strength on large holes, apply matching patch to opposite side of material. Product can be used immediately; adhesive will continue to strengthen over time.

Storage:  Store unused portion in container.

My immediate repairs include:

Test Plan

Comments on the Website:

I found the McNett website easy to negotiate.  I could not find pertinent information such as weight, price and warranty. To their credit, McNett does a good job of presenting all there products clearly, and based on that I can say that what I got was exactly what I expected.

Other Information:

I found the following information on the McNett website.  It is not listed on any of the package materials that the Tenacious Tape comes shipped in, but I have included here because I feel it's worth noting.

Adhesive Option: If more permanent repairs are desired, Tenacious Tape can be used with Seam Grip® or Aquaseal® Urethane Adhesives.  If used in this manner, follow adhesive application instructions and overlap the adhesive with Tenacious Tape by at least 1 inch (25mm).  Once adhesive is fully cured, the tape may be removed if desired.

Storage and Care: Store unused portion of tape in sealed plastic bag.  Tenacious Tape is washable. Do not dry clean.

Summary of Initial Impressions

So far, the Tenacious Sealing and Repair tape is holding its own.  But, the testing has just begun! 

Tim