View Full Version : Bison Bushcraft Guide shirt (with pics)
I've already posted my first impressions on Paganwolfs thread but I decided to post my own preliminary review in a separate thread. A week certainly isn't enough time to get to grips with any product but I'm sure there is alot of interest in this item, given Swanndri's uncertain future.
Firstly I have to compliment Bison Bushcraft on their prompt service. I ordered from their website http://www.bisonbushcraft.co.uk/ on a Thursday night and the shirt was delivered on Saturday. It cost £70 plus postage.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v54/LJintheUK/bushcraft/2008_0215Image0004.jpg
I shall have to compare the Guide shirt to the Swanndri Ranger as that will be the item most of you will be familiar with and, as Bisons website states, the guide shirt was made to replace it.
The Guide shirt is made of a much denser wool in a very nice greeny grey and brown check, that is not as overtly "lumberjack" as some of the Swanndri patterns. It has a grandad style collar with buttons rather than the zip of a Ranger. I'm not fond of zips as they are usually the first thing to fail on clothing. Having said that, I've not had a problem with any zip on a Swanndri product. Still, I like the buttons:) . It has one unflapped pocket on the left breast with a nice subtle leather patch bearing the Bison Bushcraft logo.
So, into the field. I've worn it now on three forays to my local woods, I've not managed an overnighter but I've been out by 5.30am and it's been a bit parky of late! I forgot my camera last Sunday when the ground was frosty and the sunlight was glorious:rolleyes: but remembered it today. Sadly it was overcast which reflects in the pics.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v54/LJintheUK/bushcraft/2008_0215Image0009.jpg
The denser weave of the Guide definitely blocks the wind better than a Swanndri, making it suitable as a mid/outer layer. When worn under a ventile wind shirt it is as efficient as the Ranger. However the more open weave of the Ranger means that it insulates as well but for less weight and bulk, something to consider if you are packing for a trip.
The Guide shirt is comfortable to work in when sawing and axeing. I would prefer double buttoned cuffs, as this would make it easier to roll the sleeves up. A minor niggle for me but if you have Popeye forearms this could be an issue.
It hasn't rained, so I am unsure how the Guide will fair but I intend to update this thread when I've had more use out of the shirt.
For now though, I can say I'm impressed.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v54/LJintheUK/bushcraft/2008_0215Image0012.jpg
Good shirt, good review.
The open weave of the Swannie means that in windy weather you really need something on top. My solution to this is to wear a pertex Arktis windshirt on top when necessary. These weigh next to nothing, cost £16, are very, very windproof, add a bit of insulation, and fold in to a stuff sac about the same volume as a packet of cigarettes.
The colours of the Guide look good - I often think brownish is better camouflage than greenish.
The colours of the Guide look good - I often think brownish is better camouflage than greenish.
True, especially in autumn/winter/early spring when you'd expect to use this shirt.
Nice one Snufkin I am waiting on mine to be delivered and was hoping you would do a review, what size did you get?. I ordered a large, I hope its not too big for me.
Simon.
Nice one Snufkin I am waiting on mine to be delivered and was hoping you would do a review, what size did you get?. I ordered a large, I hope its not too big for me.
Simon.
I ordered a large too. Fits me fine so you'll do alright if that's your usual size.
I ordered a large too. Fits me fine so you'll do alright if that's your usual size.
Yeh normaly I go for a large, although I had a large ranger and that was huge so I sold it.
Cheers.
Simon.
given Swanndri's uncertain future.
Do you really think Swanni have an uncertain future? A falling out with a distributor is hardly unusual and doesn't necessarily indicate imminent failure.
Regarding the shirt, I really hate the colour/pattern. I don't care how much it blends in, it's 'orrible. If they do an OG version or something more like the Swanni check then I've cash waiting, 'til then I'll pass thanks.
I was under the impression that Swanndri was for sale...
Didn't hear that.
Shame.
Actually it seems it's been sold.
Taken from the Ray Mears website
"PLEASE NOTE THAT THE SWANNDRI COMPANY HAS BEEN RECENTLY SOLD AND THAT WE ARE CURRENTLY UNABLE TO OBTAIN FURTHER SUPPLIES OF THIS PARTICULAR GARMENT."
Hopefully they'll sort out a deal for distribution over here, it'd be a shame if they disappeared from the scene.
It's not so long since I had email from Swanni regarding reselling, I didn't want to take on a lot of product at the time or else I could have stocked their product. Could the Mears site be referring to the disti?
Angus Og
16-02-2008, 11:44
From the horses mouth.
Media Release
14 November 2007
NEW OWNER FOR ICONIC KIWI BRAND - Swanndri sold to Longbeach Holdings
Successful Christchurch apparel company Longbeach Holdings Ltd today announced that it has acquired one of New Zealand's most well known and respected brands, Swanndri.
Longbeach specialises in developing supply solutions and product for the apparel sector. It has operations in New Zealand, Australia, South Africa, UK and China.
The company has been working with Swanndri as a major product supply partner for the past two years including developing new innovations in fabric and styling.
The outgoing Chairman of Swanndri, Bryan Pearson, said the Board and Management team of Swanndri has spent the past four years repositioning and growing the business. "We all felt the time was right for a major company like Longbeach to come in and take Swanndri to the next level.
Longbeach has the expertise and infrastructure to support further growth of this great Kiwi brand in New Zealand and international markets. Their existing relationship with the brand, their established position in major markets beyond New Zealand and their specialist skills, make them the natural owners of Swanndri".
Longbeach Chairman, Ken Sparrow, says this is a great deal for the Swanndri brand, and for both companies.
"The Swanndri brand is a national icon that we look forward to developing globally. We have plans to leverage and capitalise on the hard work that has been done over the recent years".
http://www.swanndri.co.nz/default.aspx?I=5003
Angus Og
16-02-2008, 11:48
Good review about the Bison Bushcraft Guide shirt, the shirt sounds good just not so sure about the colour.
Longbeach's website, doesn't seem to work atm.
http://www.longbeach.co.nz/
I ordered a large too. Fits me fine so you'll do alright if that's your usual size.
Say Snufkin, how would you compare the Bison sizes to the Swanndri sizes?
The same? Bigger? Smaller?
I'm normally a medium, but for the Swanndri Ranger size small is more my size.
/ Karl
Like Snufkin, I am a satisfied customer. :D Mine arrived on Thursday and I have only really taken it off to sleep. The fabric is great and I would say not that much heavier than my Swanni. The collar is superb, as are the buttons to do it up - a huge improvement on the Swanni zip, which tends to work its way undone, with wear. The real high point for me are the sleeves - they are a great cut and long enough for my gibbon-esque arms.
I have no connection with Bison Bushcraft, et cetera but I do think that this is very definitely a British-made alternative to the Swanni that is pretty much superior in all areas.
Say Snufkin, how would you compare the Bison sizes to the Swanndri sizes?
The same? Bigger? Smaller?
I'm normally a medium, but for the Swanndri Ranger size small is more my size.
/ Karl
I'd say that the large sized Guide that I have is a little larger than my large Swanni Ranger. But it is only a slight difference.
I'd say that the large sized Guide that I have is a little larger than my large Swanni Ranger. But it is only a slight difference.
Cool. Thanks snufkin!!
That means I should choose the same size for the Guide as I would for the Swanni Ranger.
/ Karl
It certainly looks like a good bit of kit. I'm happy with my Swannis though and need to watch the poennies these days so won't be buying, but it's nice to see another member who likes natural material equipment too. Nice bag Snufkin!
It certainly looks like a good bit of kit. I'm happy with my Swannis though and need to watch the poennies these days so won't be buying, but it's nice to see another member who likes natural material equipment too. Nice bag Snufkin!
Cheers mate. The bag is one of my favourite bits of kit. It's a No Name pack from Alder Stream Canvas. Handmade with custom available and cheaper than Frost River or Duluth.
http://alderstream.wcha.org/
And if you like traditional gear and natural materials you might like this site http://www.jackmountainbushcraft.com/gear.html#tump
Which is where I found the link to Alder Stream.
I might have to do a review of the pack:) .
snufkin
Just a quick (additional) question on sizing - I am about to order a Guide Shirt, but can't decide between a medium or large. You've gone for a large, which from your photos would seem a good fit for me, but only if you are about 5' 10" - 5' 11" like me! If you're a 6' 7" giant then a medium would probably be better. Can you help please!?
Dougster
27-03-2008, 23:20
I like that colour, onto the wishlist it goes.:D
pothunter
28-03-2008, 10:00
Hi ads677
I've been wearing one of these now for over a month almost on a daily basis, even had to wash it.
The only issue you might have with the large is if its long enough, I'm 5'10" and it fits well tucked in or out I suggest speak to Bison I'm sure they will exchange if you have only tried it for fit.
Best regards, Mark.
I've never actually got up close and personal with a Swanndri - and the frequency with which they appear on bushcraft sites suggests they are imbued with mystical properties, but isn't the 'Ranger' just a wool shirt?
I've been using Pendleton wool shirts for many years (100% virgin wool - yes, from ugly sheep...) and if you're patient they can be picked up on the old Bay (.com) for a fraction of the Swanddri prices.
Filson also do several types of wool shirt including their heavyweight Jac-Shirt and Woolrich do a thick, heavy-duty wool blend (80% wool/20% nylon) shirt in several styles which is very warm.
All the above come in a wide variety of plain colours and plaids which are considerably more muted than some of the screaming Swanndri's I've seen on the web.
I do realize that the Ranger Extreme version has a waterproof liner, though my preference would be a breathable waterproof layer on top if needs be.
On the subject of wool recommendations - I have several types of wool baselayer/shirts from various companies: Icebreaker, Arktis (Antarctica Shirt) Army Norgi, Ullfrotte and Lundhags and must say that my Ullfrotte 200g crew is a clear favourite.
snufkin
Just a quick (additional) question on sizing - I am about to order a Guide Shirt, but can't decide between a medium or large. You've gone for a large, which from your photos would seem a good fit for me, but only if you are about 5' 10" - 5' 11" like me! If you're a 6' 7" giant then a medium would probably be better. Can you help please!?
I'm 5' 11 3/4":) .
shooting stick
30-03-2008, 00:16
a good review, like the colour aswell, not sure about size though having read your review, i am 41" chest or 104cm and 5ft8" the swandri chart suggests a large is there much difference between the swannie and bison, ive ordered a large im thinking now med. like the bag, whats the weight. ...s.s
Following this review, I got myself one of these shirts too and I have to say I really like it.
I've just been out for the weekend with it and it was a wrench to take it off in the end.
As usual with my kit, I've made some adaptations such as swapping the buttons for some home made reindeer antler ones and stitching the breast pocket into a pen slot and a note pad pocket.
Top bit of kit though. Thanks for the heads up Snufkin. http://www.ukpiratebrotherhood.co.uk/forum/Smileys/classic/psmiley23.gif
Comparing my Swannie Ranger with Wayland's shirt, I was impressed with the thickness and softness of the wool on his. I believe the sizes may be smaller his was Large IIRC and was too small for me whereas my Ranger is also a Large and big enough to get two layers under.
How long did it take for your shirt to turn up at your door? ordered mine over a week ago
How long did it take for your shirt to turn up at your door? ordered mine over a week ago
Is probably just because the stagecoach couldnt get through to Lane End this month, what with all those highwaymen and wolves on the roads:lmao:
It did take a while.
I think they are ordered to supply.
Paganwolf
02-04-2008, 16:47
Are you sure they are highwaymen and wolves Aaron and not Milkmen and Deer :rolleyes: ? lol, There have been a high demand on this Item Jason, they are all hand made, im sure it will come soon buddy, if your worried and eager and impatient call Roger he is the only one that can tell you how long its going to be.:D
LOL I want it now:rant: :p
Paganwolf
02-04-2008, 17:45
Patience is a vertue and all good things come to those who wait buddy ;)
Craigeam
02-04-2008, 17:55
LOL I want it now:rant: :p
I ordered one in February and Roger emailed then to say that due to high demand all the first batch were gone, he had orders pending for all the second batch but mine should be due about the end of March, so hopefully it will be on its way soon. Best bet is to check with Roger to see what the delivery is now.
They seem to be popular items, possibly as a result of the favourable comments on these forums, that is certainly how I heard of them.
As Paganwolf says patience is a virtue!
I ordered one in February and Roger emailed then to say that due to high demand all the first batch were gone, he had orders pending for all the second batch but mine should be due about the end of March, so hopefully it will be on its way soon. Best bet is to check with Roger to see what the delivery is now.
They seem to be popular items, possibly as a result of the favourable comments on these forums, that is certainly how I heard of them.
As Paganwolf says patience is a virtue! Its April and you have not had the shirt yet .It said nothing about not being in stock on the bison web site
Silverback
03-04-2008, 15:07
Its April and you have not had the shirt yet .It said nothing about not being in stock on the bison web siteServes you right for being a hairy kit junkie :lmao:
Yeah, stop moaning. And get your hair cut.:cussing:
Lol:lmao: kit junky dpm arm chairs to the lot of you:eek:
dommyracer
03-04-2008, 19:51
Lol:lmao: kit junky dpm arm chairs to the lot of you:eek:
DPM VENTILE armchair actually
Jason its my fault,i got 2 of um and let me tell you there top notch:nana:
oh and I'm still getting professional help for the kit addiction thing:togo:
I've just spoken to our seamstress and she has said I will have the next batch next week. In reality that means we should be able to send them out by the weekend. I'll also have a sample of a new colour scheme next week based on the current colour being autumn the new one should be spring. If possible I'll get a picture of the new colour up on the website.
Sorry for the delays.
Roger
www.bisonbushcraft.co.uk
I've just spoken to our seamstress and she has said I will have the next batch next week. In reality that means we should be able to send them out by the weekend. I'll also have a sample of a new colour scheme next week based on the current colour being autumn the new one should be spring. If possible I'll get a picture of the new colour up on the website.
Sorry for the delays.
Roger
www.bisonbushcraft.co.ukThanks mate;)
They are in very high demand, and with good reason!
I work for Bison (for those who don't know) and only got mine a few weeks back (customers come first!, Rodgers personal ones have gone out to several customers who needed them in a hurry! - they were aware!)
I'm 5"9' and 42' chest the medium fits very well (hopefully a guide for siszing).
They are made in the UK and the fabric is woven to order, nothing mass produced in the far east, in keeping with our ethos.
Not all of our products meet that standard yet, but we are trying, we now have a "Bisons own Products range" which are items which are designed by us and manufactured with the environment and local craftspeople in mind.
Neil
Well the quality certainly shows, well done.
marshall4771
16-04-2008, 13:47
Hi Roger,
Are the next batch in yet and have you managed to post the new colour scheme on your site, I've had a look but cant find them.
regards
Shaun
Craigeam
16-04-2008, 20:29
The next batch must be in now as mine arrived today and I must say is well worth the wait.
On first impressions I can only agree with the comments posted earlier, if anything the quality of materials and construction are superior to even my older Swannies this will certainly be a favourite piece of kit.
Cheers
Craigeam
I've had mine a month now, and they are god quality, the only gripes i have are, i can't fasten the top button, shirts a medium and i'm a 44 chest and it fits me fine, but for the top button(17 1/2 collar/neck size), also the sleeves are tight but they'll strech, wer'e not all the same size due to sport or work we've done which has alterd our bodies/shapes.
I also suggested to roger a fastening on the pocket. I like mine more than my swanni, so i'm a fan.
canadianwildman
17-04-2008, 04:51
love the shirt but to much money for me
Silverback
17-04-2008, 08:37
Hmmm was considering a purchase but Woof's comments bother me - what's the biggest size available? I need a 52" chest with an 18.5" neck and 18.5" arms (I have a sport modified body :D ;) )
Your best bet would be to have as word with Roger.....I notice that with some of his other new products he states that people's personal measurements are needed to ensure proper fit. Whether he could do a "customised" size for this product I don't know...but I'd guess ther's a fair chance if you ask ;) I need to try one (probably at the Gathering) before I buy...
Woof
If you look at the size chart, with a 44" chest you should have a large really.
New colour should be up soon, it's in the hands of the web man.New colour (summer) shirts available from 2-3 weeks from now and next batch of old (autumn) colour due in 3+ weeks.
Roger
marshall4771
17-04-2008, 10:53
Thanks for the update Roger, I know you are a busy bloke and sitting at a PC is probably the last thing you want to do !
Shaun
maverick moocher
21-04-2008, 14:48
just for info, the new " summer " colour is available to view on the Bison website. Discuss!!:argue:
no links etc
Shouldn't that be summer "colour" ;)
It's still check - and I'm not a huge fan of check - that said the original one is actually understated - you don't notice it so much.
Hmmm.. Not sure about that one.
Having said that pictures online are a pretty bad guide to colour unless the whole system is colour managed so I'd be interested in seeing one in the cloth as it were.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v54/LJintheUK/bushcraft/2008_0215Image0004.jpg http://www.bisonbushcraft.co.uk/page5/files/bison_bushcraft_guide_shirt.jp g
http://www.wayland.me.uk/assets/images/Bison-Shirt.jpg http://www.bisonbushcraft.co.uk/page27/files/guide_shirt_summer.jpg Summer Colour
Silverback
22-04-2008, 20:27
Hmmn not too keen on the furry collar in that photo above :D
It takes at least a decade to get that way.... ;)
I took delivery of a summer coloured one yesterday. It's quite a contrast to the autumn one, which me lady wife says is a bit 'too ginger', but it looks ... OK. The green on it is pleasant; the fawn-y colour is fine too - but in combination, I'm not entirely convinced. I think it needs a bit of a bashing and wear to take away that just-out-of-the-packet look.
I'm not entirely sure but I think that it feels as though it is a slightly lighter weight fabric too. That's no bad thing but I think I'll wait until this appalling sunny and warm weather to go before I start wearing it in earnest.
The cut and quality remain the same - this is going to be one of those heirloom garments that I hand down to my kids. Who knows, I might even wash it before I do so!
Just reanimating this review as I had the chance to wear the shirt in proper wintery weather.
The shirt has softened up a bit as it's been through the washing machine a few times (with no shrinkage). There's little sign of wear around the elbows, collar or cuffs where I'd expect to see it first. It's now my first choice mid layer for outdoors and is often a favourite "round the house" shirt and "wander into town" shirt as it looks quite presentable. In short, it's my most worn item of clothing and as far as I'm concerned has already paid for itself, with what looks to be many years of life left in it. Well worth every penny.
SkogKniv
16-02-2009, 22:55
Excellent review. That shirt looks great!
Hi guys,
Does this have any fastening on the top pocket at all?
Cheers
Louis
nice shirt but how much:eek:
pete
Hi guys,
Does this have any fastening on the top pocket at all?
Cheers
Louis
No, the original run didn't. I don't know if they've added one now.
Wasn`t there talk of them doing a plain olive version ?
No, the original run didn't. I don't know if they've added one now.
Cheers for the speedy reply, thats a shame im sure that your not likely to loose anything out of it but i have to have pockets that can be fastened, and it freaks me out if they are left open too! :werd:
Cheers
Louis
nice shirt but how much:eek:
pete
Pricey but I still feel it's good value for money. You could pay as much or more for a fleece from a "major" outdoor clothing manufacturer that was made in the far east and comes with a huge markup. At least you know your money is going to small UK businesses. This shirt is built to last. I wouldn't be suprised to get 10 years of hard use out of it, if you look at it that way it's cost effective.
Cheers for the speedy reply, thats a shame im sure that your not likely to loose anything out of it but i have to have pockets that can be fastened, and it freaks me out if they are left open too! :werd:
Cheers
Louis
To be honest I don't use the pocket that much. It's handy to pop my tinder bundle in to keep it warm and dry when I'm using the flint and steel technique but that's about the only time I use it.
To be honest I don't use the pocket that much. It's handy to pop my tinder bundle in to keep it warm and dry when I'm using the flint and steel technique but that's about the only time I use it.
I know what you mean im the same with my Swanni, but they still have to be done up :lmao:
Cheers
Wasn`t there talk of them doing a plain olive version ?
They do say on the website that other colours were to follow. Why not email Bison? I'm sure if enough people expressed an interest it would be worth them doing a run.
Paullyfuzz
17-02-2009, 13:50
What are they like next to the skin, are they as horrible and scratchy as Swannys ?
Paul
What are they like next to the skin, are they as horrible and scratchy as Swannys ?
Paul
I'm not terribly sensitive to wool and always found the Swannie perfectly comfortable. At first the Bison was a little scratchy but has softened nicely after a few washes. If you've had problems with swannies you probably won't get on with this one.
Paullyfuzz
17-02-2009, 21:10
I'm not terribly sensitive to wool and always found the Swannie perfectly comfortable. At first the Bison was a little scratchy but has softened nicely after a few washes. If you've had problems with swannies you probably won't get on with this one.
To be fair to the Swanny i had, i only tried it on once and thought straight away that it was horrid against the skin. Im sure if i gave the Bison the chance, it would feel fine, especially after a few washes.
Paul
To be fair to the Swanny i had, i only tried it on once and thought straight away that it was horrid against the skin. Im sure if i gave the Bison the chance, it would feel fine, especially after a few washes.
Paul
I tend to only wear swannies or the bison as a mid layer, usually with a merino baselayer. If you chose a high necked baselayer it wouldn't come into contact with your skin much at all.
Klenchblaize
18-02-2009, 11:51
Mine has arrived too albeit care of a somewhat weary Santa!
All I can say about sizing is that XL is not as will be found on the high street so heed the BB size chart.
Fortunately my example was not just too long in the arm but also across the chest so my plan of subjecting it to a 40c wash, with soap and NOT detergent, shrunk it to perfection. This however is NOT a BB recommendation but rather the risk I was prepared to take.
I've also whipped off the as supplied buttons and installed some hand-made antler ones. It looks rather cool if I may say so although the task has clearly left me a little deflated!!
http://i32.photobucket.com/albums/d46/klenchblaize/SN200562.jpg
My only gripe is the stubby collar could be twice as high but guess that's a matter of taste. Certainly it is preferable to the 70's wing collar to be found the Swannie. Now if only BB would supply them as a half-zip hoodie!!
Cheers
K
Mine has arrived too albeit care of a somewhat weary Santa!
All I can say about sizing is that XL is not as will be found on the high street so heed the BB size chart.
Fortunately my example was not just too long in the arm but also across the chest so my plan of subjecting it to a 40c wash, with soap and NOT detergent, shrunk it to perfection. This however is NOT a BB recommendation but rather the risk I was prepared to take.
I've also whipped off the as supplied buttons and installed some hand-made antler ones. It looks rather cool if I may say so although the task has clearly left me a little deflated!!
http://i32.photobucket.com/albums/d46/klenchblaize/SN200562.jpg
My only gripe is the stubby collar could be twice as high but guess that's a matter of taste. Certainly it is preferable to the 70's wing collar to be found the Swannie. Now if only BB would supply them as a half-zip hoodie!!
Cheers
K
I'd go for a half button hoodie (not so keen on zips). Your button mod looks good.
Hi Klench, i see yours does have a pocket button, which was one of my gripes with mine, did it come that way, or did you "mod" it.
I use the top pocket for my sak, and on my swanni the lanyard is secured with the button going through it, i may try to put a button the pocket.
Klenchblaize
23-02-2009, 09:56
With pocket button.:D
For those who claim it is "too ginger" I suggest you grab even a handfull of late-winter leaf litter and compare.;)
Cheers
K
I stitched my pocket into a pen/ penknife slot and a notebook slot as you can just see in the picture above. Mine didn't come with a button.
I also changed the buttons for reindeer antler.
Personally I'm glad it isn't a hoody as I hate hoods.
I'm currently trying to work out how to mod my Swannie from a hood to a stand up collar.
sandbender
23-02-2009, 11:03
I'm currently trying to work out how to mod my Swannie from a hood to a stand up collar.
What will you turn the hood into when its removed?
:D
What will you turn the hood into when its removed?
Patches probably...:D
Got the boss lady to mod mine yesterday, with a button on the pocket. I am now looking at making my swanni ranger into the same sort of collar as the bison shirt. Anyone else done that ?.
I do not own either and I am about to manufacture my own blanket hoody like Neil1's. I believe the Swanndri is Merino wool which I have a few items, base layer, jumper, hat and know it to be totally non-itchy.
Is the BB wool nice n soft for my sensitive, delicate ;) skin? Or is it like the old 'hairy Mary' KF shirt we used to get issued in the day which was like wearing a rough grade sand paper. However they did keep you nice n warm which was a bonus when doing basic training in the height of summer!
Craeg
Paullyfuzz
26-02-2009, 22:55
Ive just got a Bison Guide in a trade, and i gotta say, its **** loads better than a Swanni. The wool is far softer and thicker.
Paul
Klenchblaize
27-02-2009, 17:47
Got the boss lady to mod mine yesterday, with a button on the pocket. I am now looking at making my swanni ranger into the same sort of collar as the bison shirt. Anyone else done that ?.
What's wrong with hoods dude?:yelrotflm
Cheers!
Nothing, they're chavtastic !
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Spring Guide Shirt.
This has been designed to have the feel of spring and show up as fresh young spring greens. I've taken the picture just now (a bit windy) with the grass in the background to show the colours. http://i581.photobucket.com/albums/ss251/Rogerbison/SpringGuideshirt-1.jpg
Winter Guide Shirt. It's a dark olive colour, a shade darker than the old Swanni green.http://i581.photobucket.com/albums/ss251/Rogerbison/DarkOliveGuideShirt-1.jpg
They'll be on my website soon, but you can order by phone if you wish.
Roger
__________________
www.bisonbushcraft.co.uk www.bisonbushcraft.co.uk
Bushwhacker
10-03-2009, 17:04
Seventy pounds for a shirt that keeps you warm? I think someone saw you coming.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Spring Guide Shirt.
This has been designed to have the feel of spring and show up as fresh young spring greens. I've taken the picture just now (a bit windy) with the grass in the background to show the colours. http://i581.photobucket.com/albums/ss251/Rogerbison/SpringGuideshirt-1.jpg
Winter Guide Shirt. It's a dark olive colour, a shade darker than the old Swanni green.http://i581.photobucket.com/albums/ss251/Rogerbison/DarkOliveGuideShirt-1.jpg
They'll be on my website soon, but you can order by phone if you wish.
Roger
__________________
www.bisonbushcraft.co.uk www.bisonbushcraft.co.uk
Excellent, they`ve arrived
Thanks for the heads up Roger
now where`s that wallet
Seventy pounds for a shirt that keeps you warm? I think someone saw you coming.
It's all relative. I don't mind paying for a quality item made in the uk that has fewer transportation miles on it. You can easily pay more for a polyester fleece made in the far east that doesn't work as well and will melt if a spark hits it but does have some outdoor makers name on it.
If you can point me to a UK made shirt of similar quality for less please post a link.
Top bit of kit I love mine well worth the money;)
Prawnster
13-03-2009, 02:01
Payday for me next week so I'll be ordering one methinks.
What is the fit like? Is it a baggy fit? I'm normally between a medium and a large. I'm thinking large to get layers under but I don't want to drown in it.
Klenchblaize
13-03-2009, 15:58
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Spring Guide Shirt.
This has been designed to have the feel of spring and show up as fresh young spring greens. I've taken the picture just now (a bit windy) with the grass in the background to show the colours. http://i581.photobucket.com/albums/ss251/Rogerbison/SpringGuideshirt-1.jpg
Roger
__________________
www.bisonbushcraft.co.uk www.bisonbushcraft.co.uk
Looks like my autumn model after a 90o wash!
I like it but still would love to see you offer a hoody version.
Yes, guess I am persistent!
Well done for making available such a great piece of kit and, mindful of a recent Wayland post, one that has backwoods man written all over it.
Cheers!
Payday for me next week so I'll be ordering one methinks.
What is the fit like? Is it a baggy fit? I'm normally between a medium and a large. I'm thinking large to get layers under but I don't want to drown in it.
I'm a shade under 6' and my large size fits me fine. I normally only wear a merino base layer under it. Best bet if you are uncertain is to drop Bison an email.
sandbender
05-01-2010, 22:58
Thanks to Snufkin (http://www.bushcraftuk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=28425) for posting this review and thanks to Roger at Bison for making sure I received my 'Guide Shirt (http://www.bisonbushcraft.co.uk/page27/page27.html)' in time for the Christmas break. It is a cracking piece of kit, much comfier than the swannie. Worth every penny and as always, great service from Bison. :D
I picked one up on the forum secondhand, and I agree they feel much comfier than the Swannies I've got. Less itchy and coarse, more soft and smooth but thicker with it.
My only gripe is the tightness of the cuffs, I've got womens wrists but it's still a bit on the tight side. Been meaning to try and do something with it for a while.
Prawnster
06-01-2010, 01:10
You're right Rich, great shirt but those cuffs are a pain. I usually wear mine with the buttons undone.
You're right Rich, great shirt but those cuffs are a pain. I usually wear mine with the buttons undone.
Yeah that's what I've been doing too, shame really as it's a great shirt apart from that.
Chris the Cat
06-01-2010, 08:44
SWMBO took the buttons off,attatched a strip of canvas tape 3cm long by 1cm wide and re-attatched the buttons! Button extentions!!
C da C.
sandbender
06-01-2010, 09:43
"...My only gripe is the tightness of the cuffs, I've got womens wrists but it's still a bit on the tight side..."
I find that the fit is fine, perhaps they have been watching the forums and have modified the design? :)
On my 'large' sized shirt the inner diameter of the cuff is somewhere between 230 and 235 mm.
Rich,
That and the fact i could'nt fasten the top button, was the reason i sold it. I like to wear them as a shirt/mid layer, and the medium fitted me great in the body. But as has been said, far superior to the swannie.
Rob
Have to admit that I had to grab a hold of a part of my view of myself and throttle it a bit before ordering one of these. Plan was to sell it if i couldn't stand it.
But, I must say it is a fine thing - amazingly warm, breathy and comfortable. I am on the border between L and XL. The L size is just great for me.
Not sure yet that I'll hang on to it. Utterly, even uncompromizingly unfashionable (unless Bushcraft is regardable as a fashionable subculture :D:D) - it is a really sound resolution of a particular question about outdoorwear. It is cowin' expensive and, though worth what it is, remains cowin' expensive :D:D:D
Were I to suddenly get rich, I'd buy another - wish they were a bit more tailored - just a bit - though a dozen chicken and mush could put that right in a mo':D:D
forestwalker
19-01-2010, 17:24
Nothing, they're chavtastic !
Chavy as in traditional Inuit parkas?
My only gripe is the tightness of the cuffs, I've got womens wrists but it's still a bit on the tight side. Been meaning to try and do something with it for a while.
I love mine (autumn) but, again, the cuffs are tight - as well as the top button. I have moved the buttons on the cuffs and am thinking about fitting a little leather thongy noose-type thing on the top button (like on a duffle coat).
I wore mine up Pumlymon last early spring in wind blown drizzle and temperatures only just above frost and it did surprising well at shrugging off the moisture - as well as keeping out the wind. I would buy the spring or the olive green were it not for the fact that I have bought some green Shetland wool fabric and I want to have a go at making my own bushy shirt. Just haven't quite built up the courage to get at it with the scissors yet...
BTW - thanks to Snufkin for the original review - it was that that convinced me to get one.
Just thought that I'd add a few words having worn this for something like a month in the manky weather of London, Vancouver and their environs.
I'm more than impressed with it. I know that well designed synthetics from Arcteryx and the like are lighter etc, but I have to say that this shirt makes an excellent component in a natural-fibre set up
Hiking in the cold on snowy ground in drizzle last week, I had on merino longs, this Guide shirt, a Swanni Rover zip jacket and a polycotton jacket over the lot. I have never been so comfortable - it was like being in bed when you have just woken up and realized it is an hour too early - only walking around :D:D
It is great for the hill, round the house, the garden, in the shed. The pocket is waaay more useful than I ever imagined. The general structure of the shirt means the pocket can hold a lot of junk without pulling all over the place.
It is warm like shacket warm - but much more so than the Pendletons I also wear. It will need patching on the elbows, in time.
And, when the lottery comes in, I am going to get a green one :)
Prawnster
16-02-2010, 23:57
I had a moan to the missus about the cuffs on mine. Two ticks later she was back with two of her little elastic hair bobbles. She 'larks-footed' them round the button holes and now I have very comfortable stretchy cuffs on my bison guide shirt. Man I love that woman.
kawasemi
17-02-2010, 01:31
I had a moan to the missus about the cuffs on mine. Two ticks later she was back with two of her little elastic hair bobbles. She 'larks-footed' them round the button holes and now I have very comfortable stretchy cuffs on my bison guide shirt. Man I love that woman.
...good on the collar as well. I've got a medium which is big on me (yes, all together now short****)...but the collar is still too tight.
What would that bodyshape be...mesomorph...endomorph...b ulldog?
Thanks for the tip Prawnster's missus. Works a treat.
kawasemi