Archives for January 2014

The Best Ring Toss Sets For The Tailgate Party

Ring toss games or horseshoe games are almost the most fun at a tailgate party. Everyone knows how the game is played – it’s in the national consciousness. The echoing ker-clunk of metal ring on stake is almost deafening in parking lots and a sweet, sweet sound that says ‘fun’ with every contact. Judging by the number of successful throws, beer-drinking is no impediment to the game. There are a lot of sets out there. But if you want to know where to find the best ring toss sets then read on!

Did you know that there is a National Horseshoe Pitchers Association of America? Yes, that is what ‘NHPA’ stands for. It’s official, the art of Ring Toss (interchangeable with the game of horseshoe pitching) is a serious sport, not just something played by drunks in a parking lots at tailgate parties.

That being said, some of my favorite throwing games have been played with a bunch of inebriated, liquored-up buddies and Ring Toss is one of the best. You need some equipment of course, so I thought I would take a look around at the choices and see which ones measure up.

There are many kits on the market from Target, K-Mart and other chains but those put together by specialist suppliers seem to stand up to all the stuff you can throw at it way better. Choosing an NHPA approved set designed by the pro-players is vital. This will ensure high quality and balanced playing parts without defects so you have more control over your game. High quality materials and finish will prevent chipping, abrasion, corrosion and weathering. Of course, if it’s ‘Made in USA’ there’s a guarantee of quality and you’re creating some job opportunities for the locals. It’s worth the investment to buy a good set that will last for years. Let’s start with the best, the highly rated Pro brands.

St. Pierre American Professional Horseshoe Set

This Professional American horseshoe pitching set is designed by a former world champion. It’s approved by the NHPA for professional and tournament play. The shoes are engineered to ring the stake with a dead fall, and more weight is forged into the toe calks (tips) for better balance in the turn and its longer tips grab the stakes for more ringers. Ideal for leagues, clubs and serious players. This set includes 4 American horseshoes, 2 solid steel 24″ long stakes, the official rulebook according to the pro leagues, and court layout instructions. St. Pierre shoes are drop forged of solid steel and then given exclusive smooth, electrostatically applied baked-on powder coating, a finish that’s more resistant to chipping, abrasion, corrosion and weathering than ordinary paint. You can’t beat powder coating for durability and lack of rusting though they can chip during normal wear. The finger positioner lets you play like a pro and the raised thumb grip allows for flipping. Only St. Pierre offers this durable, attractive finish. The weight is distributed for maximum balance and control, and each component meets the official size and weight requirements of the National Horseshoe Pitchers’ Association. Made in the U.S.A.

HINT: The powder coating may chip and if you need to repaint, don’t throw the item away. It is easily fixed by sanding off rough edges and loose paint, use some spray metal primer, dry that coat and then recoat with the matching spray metal paint. Keep some on hand and touch up your gear and you will prolong the life of your set.

Some people like to set the stakes in concrete stands which they then transport to the parking lot. This stops them from loosening during the game. They need to protrude 15” out of the ground.

This set is shipped in a plastic container but I would invest in a better carry bag to keep it in so that you don’t lose the parts.

St. Pierre Presidential Edition Horseshoe Set

The St. Pierre Presidential Edition Horseshoe Set lets you enjoy the unique design and quality of a professional set along with an eye-catching durable wood storage case. Each horseshoe has a specially created tip that will circle the stake with a better balance and a heavier fall and this allows more ringers to be thrown. Those who enjoy a friendly competition or love the game of horseshoes will surely enjoy the top quality of this set. Set of four professional-quality horseshoes 2 silver and 2 gold. Professional-quality steel horseshoes. Durable wood storage/carrying case included. Tip is created for better balance and heavier fall. Includes 2 x 24-inch stakes which can be mounted into a concrete block when you are in the parking lot.

High quality rig and this version has a great carry case. The shoes are silver and gold, but many users like to spray paint to their team colors which is obviously great and the added bonus is that the rings are easier to see when they fall.

Gordon Professional Pitching Horseshoes

Fills the bill for size and quality as they are NHPA Sanctioned for Tournament Play.

Tough as nails as they are made blacksmith style, with drop-forged construction and they are made from carbon steel.

The finish is a high quality electrostatic black surface, rust proof as long as you care for it as you would a seasoned iron pan. (oil it)

Guaranteed for a year against breakage.

They weight more than a kilo or 2 pounds 8 oz which is classed as ‘medium weight’ for competition. (Your package will be around 5 pounds).

Note that there are no stakes with this pair of shoes; you need to supply your own.

Many World Champs swear by this brand for its choice in colors, durability and finish and its forged shape is very player-friendly for all levels of the game, pitching styles and skill levels. Note that some people who buy the colored, powder-coated ones leave the tips colored and sand-blast the rest of the paint off. Your choice!

They are made in China but to the USA Gordon company specifications.

Tejo (alternative for those without the strength for Horseshoes)

Tejo Pro Game Set

Tejo is a new addition to the tailgate party game scene, patent pending with its proprietary material disks and target. Most people are addicted after the first game. Anyone can play – kids of all ages and adults. It’s very lightweight. Strength does not determine playing ability. It won’t weigh your tailgate party games kit down and very easy to transport in its own carry-bag. It’s sort of like a combination of horseshoes and bocce or petanque and special site or equipment are not required.

Rules and how to play are included and the set is almost indestructible.

Made in the USA which these days is really unusual!

Cactus Ring Toss

Cactus Beverage Cooler Ring Toss Game

Here’s a combo of a game and a drinks cooler. More of a toy than a sports set, it can be taken to the tailgate party site, inflated at your party, filled with ice around the base to keep it stable. There’s a set of light-weight rings to toss over the arms of the cactus.

Nice little novelty item, but for hard-core players and drinkers, it probably wouldn’t last very long. Great for kids’ parties though.

Vinyl Inflatable Alligator Ring Toss Game

Inflatable Alligator Ring Toss Game

OK, so you root for the Florida Gators NCAA football team? Then this (also inflatable) cute ring-toss game might just be for your tailgate party. Another inflatable, it’s a ‘gator indeed. Has a perky tail and head over which you, drunk or sober can pitch lightweight rings and keep score.

You might think this is a little below you beefy pro horseshoe toss champs but it is cheap and a lot of fun, not just for kids’ parties but for parking lots where the more injurious games are prohibited. And hey, the whole family can play this.

HINT: if you find the ‘gator deflates, put a square of duct tape over the mouthpiece after you blow it up.

Front Porch Classics Tailgaters Ring Toss

Front Porch Classics – Tailgaters Ring Toss

A classic approach to the ring-toss game is this very inexpensive one from Front Porch. It is packed in a traditional wooden crate and contains everything you need, 6 rope rings, 6 bottles, 2 elevation game blocks and 2 wooden scoring gadgets. The crate is excellent for transporting it and basically, the game is as olde-worlde as you can get, similar to that old game of quoits. Easy to take to the parking lot and suits any age. It just doesn’t have that exciting clang of the metal horseshoe toss kits,

Champion Sports Rubber Horseshoe Set

While this set is somewhat of a toy, its benefit is that it is perfect for indoor-outdoor tailgate party games. I mean, you are not going to want to be throwing your forged iron rings around inside the man-cave, are you? This set fills that indoor need as it has rubber mats that hold the stakes up so you don’t need to dig holes for erecting the targets. Come to think of it, that’s OK for the parking lot as well as you don’t want to hammer spikes into the blacktop. The kit is completely self-contained, made of durable, multicolored plastic and rubber, and will withstand quite a bit of punishment, travel to the parking lot for the tailgate party, heavy play and throwing in the back of the truck to take home. Made in China.

More St Pierre sets

This is where to find the the legendary St. Pierre sets including many of their other games. If you are the kind of person who likes to buy quality and own if for a long time, then their games are for you. Most times it is far more economical to lay out the money for a superior set as it will last for many years and many games, whereas the cheap stuff generally needs to be replaced after a season.

Filed Under: Games Tagged With: Games, Ring Toss, Tailgate Party

10 Best Beer Bongs For The Tailgate Party Reviewed

By Rawhide

Everyone knows that beer bongs are an essential part of the tailgate party experience, mainly because the activities in the parking lot take place in a small window for fun. Then you have to leave your beer, bbq and games and go sit in the stadium. So you need to get a sinful skinful and get buzzed faster than the normal rate of sipping from a Solo cup. Here’s a list of the best beer bongs out there – sure you could use any old funnel and tube but who knows where that’s been? And what’s the fun of that when you could potentially be drinking out of a spine!

The golden rule with all these items is to make sure you clean and dry them before use. If it really worries you, run some vodka through as that really sterilizes those hard-to-reach places.

You need to look at the capacity (anything bigger than you can drink will be wasted), the length of the tubes and whether it has a tap or not.

Here are the few ways to jazz up what is essentially a siphon, a funnel and a tube. My favorite is obviously the 6-seater arrangement around the pole, but each item on this list has merit either for its low price or functions.

Barbuzzo Russian Roulette Beer Bong

Great idea but leaks and doesn’t siphon properly plus breaks easily. The barrel/funnel part never really opens wide enough to get a good flow. Holds up to 72 ounces of fluid.

Cute though and cheap enough if you buy it with other items so that you get free shipping.

Skull Beverage Funnel

Skull Beer Funnel

Finish him! If you’re into cold beers and Sub-Zero is your Mortal Combat hero then this beer bong is for you! With this bad boy you can skål a Skol in a skull! Beer goes in the head and down the spine-tube so technically the beer bong can double as a Halloween party item. Make sure to wash it well before and after use and air dry it before stashing it in your tailgate party kit. Get a buddy to help you fill it then let the fun commence!

Pink Flamingo Bird Beer Bong

It’s never a bad thing to cater specifically for the lady-drinkers on your team. This is certainly a girly item and performs a lot slower than most manly beer bongs. As a novelty item to bring out at your tailgate party, it says fun for the girls and that makes it worth a spot in your tailgate party kit. You chug from the bird’s beak with the bottle attached underneath. Very simple.

The Double Header – Funnel and Tube Beer Bong

The Double Header

The Double Header has twin 2 foot hoses with taps so you and your best (or worst) bud can race to a stupor. Have another friend top it up and another clean up the spill. A hint is to put plumbers’ tape (Teflon) on all the joins to avoid spilling a drop of that precious amber ale. It’s not a high-priced item and so it isn’t built like code plumbing, but is a fun thing and does the job. Nice to be able to turn your favorite activity into a legitimate contest.

Extreme Beer Bong

Similar to the basic funnel/hose/valve (tap) combo, this version has a 6 foot hose and works well. The hose is somewhat narrower and you may find a build-up of foam but hey, just keep sucking hard and fast and that will calm down.

Very inexpensive so you can throw a few of these in your tailgate party kit. Wash and dry well prior and after use and if it develops any leaks at joins, apply the Teflon tape as discussed above.

Bongzilla Beer Bong with 6 Tubes

OK, this one is almost unbeatable for a fun party-starter. It’s pole mounted on a sturdy base which, when filled with water, keeps it all anchored to the ground. Best of all, it allows six people to slam down the beer simultaneously and darn fast. From the Head Rush Beer Bong ultimate party people, it features a six-way funnel, six hoses and six valves. The pole is adjustable so you can either sit or stand. I guess most start standing, gradually sliding into a seat and maybe eventually playing at floor level. Just keep adjusting the pole closer to the ground. You can plug any tube that is not being used with one of the supplied stoppers. Capacity is 12 cans of beer or half a gallon (5 or six beers), so keep those growlers happening and get a friend to top it up as I know my friends will drink more than the starter funnel full.

Head Rush 1 Hose 18ft Balcony Beer Bong with On / Off Valve

Head Rush 18ft Balcony Beer Bong

I’m including this as I know there are some who have their tailgate parties near balconies, roof-gardens, home-gating in some cases. Naturally, it is a ‘must-pack’ for your trip to Cancun and Cabo, but idea for some situations where the beer can flow fast from a height of 18 feet. Yes, that is what it says. 18 glorious gravitational feet causing the beer to flow so fast that your alimentary canal will be challenged in the best way possible. Do I need to explain more? It has the Head Rush Beer Bong quality and good design and will give you hours of fun. Not that you will remember much of it till the hilarious photos are featured on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

Beer Bottle Bong (Head Rush)

Beer Bottle Bong

If your beers come in bottles, then this is for you. It can pump the beer from the bottle in seconds without loss of quality. Suck it in fast! The gadget fits over the bottle and the tube goes in the bottle and the small part of the tube (of course) goes into your mouth. You have to see one to know what I am talking about. Super fun and everyone gets his or her own. You can hold contests to see who can drink the fastest. There are no negatives with this invention which has taken what was a college students’ makeshift gadget and finessed it so that it is reliable and well made. Inexpensive and you can use it many times. Wash and air-dry before and after use. No moving parts. Oh, that is the drinker also. Note that you get one,, not the whole container full of these for the advertised price.

Russian Roulette Revolver Shots Drinking Game

Neat way to play Russian Roulette and nobody gets hurt!

The handle holds a shot (2.5 ounces) and when the trigger is pulled, the barrel will go around, allowing one chamber only to shoot the liquor into a lucky drinker’s mouth. A one in six chance to be … Winner! It’s a bit dinky but a very fun accessory to have at a tailgate party to mix up the ways and methods of taking a swig of liquor in amongst all that beer. Inexpensive for the laughs you will get. And the gratitude the winner will show you after a shot of tequila or whatever you want to fill it with. Again, wash and air dry before and after use or it could become nasty!!!

Glow In The Dark And Under Black Light Beer Bong

This Beer Blaster Beer Funnel is the one you will take out when the sun goes down or on those Friday nights. Guaranteed fun for everyone this Funnel & Tube Beer Bong is the classic style Beer Bong. Holds just a smidge over 2 beers and comes with a 2 feet long hose. A nice novelty at a low price. Doesn’t have a tap so if you stop to belch then you’ll be wearing your booze.

Filed Under: Beverages Tagged With: Beer, Beer Bong, beverage, Tailgate Party

Best Beer Towers For The Tailgate Party Reviewed

By Rawhide

So you’re in the middle of a tailgate party, you want to BBQ, play games and serve your frosty beer at the same time. Where’s the waiter?? And what can you do when you don’t own a kegerator? How about a few Beer Towers, each with its own beverage! Check out this list of the best beer towers for your tailgate party.

Awesome looking lined up in Drinks Central at your tailgate party, they’re known as Booze Tubes, Tabletop Beer Dispensers, Bazooka Tubes, or Beer Pitchers. They are low tech – few moving parts – probably the secret to the design’s affordability. It pretty much adds up to a Yard of Beer but unlike those massive steins, glasses and containers, they stay cold.

Of course, the difference between this and the draft models can’t be denied. But these are cheap and if your look after them, you’ll have them forever. The bottom line is that they are a great accessory for the ‘bar’ or picnic table in the parking lot.

If you have a larger budget and a powered site, then you might want to consider a large kegerator and the draft beer towers and taps to go with that. However, many people really can’t afford to throw down that much moolah – there are heaps of accessories and maintenance required for the big rigs. So these little low-tech units are a great alternative and not to be sneezed at (or on).

Basically, this is like a well-sealed very tall pitcher, around a yard of beer, except many have a tube full of ice down their center. Some light up with amazing colors. They have a spigot tap for serving. It’s up to you what you serve from them but I keep a dark beer in one, a light Pilsener in another and a medium bitter in another. That seems to keep everyone happy. Oh, and one with non-alcoholic beverage in for the designated driver. You can purchase logos separately for the taps to identify your drinks. Next day, fill it with a Bloody Mary with pickle juice and oysters for that essential pick-me-up hangover cure, hair of the dog and Vitamin C/Zinc hit and you’ll be rearing to go, ready for the next tailgate party.

Choosing a beer tower, you need to look for stability, an ice tube, (AKA chill stick, chill bat) or flexible ice wrap, to keep the booze cold. Ease of cleaning and durability of the tube, tap and base are important too. That’s it. Simple.

Note that the beer taps are intended to be carefully pulled down only a quarter of the way to dispense liquid. Taps will be damaged, if pulled completely down but if you break them you can easily get replacements.

Beer Tower from BarProducts.

Bar Products Beer Tower

Standing on a base of 8” diameter, this Beer Tower in just under a yard tall at 34”. The tube is clear plastic and holds 3 liters (101.4 fluid ounces) of liquid. A standard beer is 10 ounces, so you will get a little over 10 glasses from this.

Drinks are dispensed by pulling down the spigot handle (bar style) or pushing the button on the spout.

The ratio of base width to height is good and it should not tip over under normal circumstances. Turn the tower to lock it into place on the stand.

Handy in a crowd situation – a few of these will keep the beer cold and people can help themselves. Fill it with your home-brew!

This model does not come equipped with an ice tube and it is recommended that you purchase a freeze sleeve and wrap it around the tube, at least at the base of the beer section. Obviously that doesn’t look as amazing as the amber liquid glowing through the tube, but it is functional.

Techni-ICE Sheets, Better than Ice or Gel Packs! Reusable, Dry Ice Replacement

Techni-ICE Sheets

These flexible sleeves are as good as dry ice, can be heated as well as frozen and will last for ever. A great investment. You can wrap these around anything to keep them cold and put one on your head next day to reduce your hangover.

Wyndham House 3.7qt (3.5l) Beverage Dispenser (No Ice-Tube)

Wyndham House 3.7qt (3.5l) Beverage Dispenser

With a capacity of 7 pints (3.7 quarts or 3.5 liters) this is quite large and surprisingly, is around half the price of most on the market. The dimensions are 9-3/4″ x 33-1/2″ x 7-3/4″ so it is a little wider than most which may add to its stability.

Half the price of most on the market. as this model does not include an ice tube down its center so you would need to ‘sleeve’ it to keep the booze icy or buy a separate ice-tube. Some say there is little need to do that as the turnover is quite fast at tailgate parties.

If you want the complete beer tower with matching ice-tube, check out the model here:

Wyndham House 3.7qt (3.5L) Beverage Dispenser (With Ice Tube)

Wyndham House 3.7qt (3.5L) Beverage Dispenser

Fundamentally, it’s the same as the beer tower above, but has a refillable ice-tube which you slip into the center.

The removable cooling chamber ensures drinks stay cold from the first fill-up to the last. Features ABS body, large dome base, removable ice cooling chamber, and removable tap for ease of cleaning.

Beer Tubes Stainless Steel Chill Stick (Beverage Cooler)

Beer Tubes Stainless Steel Chill Stick

You want the beer chilled enough for drinking but not so cold that you get the ice-cream headache when the beer bong is in use. The Chill Stick is designed to keep the product at optimal slamming temperature.

The investment is worthwhile though it is a little skimpy for a yard of beer. You may need two of these or a sleeve at the base as well depending on the day and where your tailgate party will be held. In the heat, I would recommend a sleeve as well as the ice-tube.

Beer Tower 3 Liters with Ice Tube Draft Beer Tower Dispenser

Beer Tower 3 Liters w Ice Tube

Capacity is 3 liters or around 10 standard beers. The ice-tube is removable and detaches from the base for easy cleaning and re-fills with ice. DO NOT fill with water and freeze. It is designed to hold ice-blocks and will not stand up to being put in the freezer and frozen.

At least this one comes with its own ice-tube. It’s a standard beer tower not much different from many on the market.

As with others, your tailgate party guests can help themselves to cold drinks of all kinds from this dispenser. I would never put dairy drinks in this as the cleaning would be painful. And heck, what a waste! Beer is so much less labor intensive ….

Lighted Beer Tower with Ice Tube

But if you are looking for a point of difference, this may be it!

As with the beer towers we have already looked at, you have your yard of beer in a clear plastic tube firmly fastened to a base measuring 8” in diameter and the removable ice-tube is keeping the beverage frosty which you are accessing through the pull-down bar-style handle. But then … whoo-hoo! It lights up! The battery operated light effects make it look like your tailgate party has its own cool bar.

Note that the ice-tube is very well sealed. You just fill it with cubes and seal it and no leakage into the beer to water down that great taste.

Holds 9 – 10 standard beers or 2 blenders full of margaritas.

To fill the tower without spillage or an excess of foamy froth, place it low down and have a friend hold it on an angle as though you are pouring a beer. Dribble the beer slowly down the side. The tap will add a nice head to the beer when drinkers are pouring their own booze from it.

Cleaning hints can be found below!

The BrewTender Tabletop Beer & Beverage Dispenser

The tube holds up to 80 ounces and keeps it cold, ready for your guests to serve themselves. Sack the waiter! It’s perfect for tailgate parties and has built in lights that glow up through the drink for an amazing effect.

Beer dispensing happens within a few seconds.

Dimensions: 20 1/2″H x 7″D

Note that for these Beer Towers with onboard lighting, don’t leave the light on all the time or it will heat the beer. A good hint is to buy a backup ice-tube and add this in when the first has defrosted.

If you want to store this in the fridge, you will need to remove all the shelves as it is almost a yard high.

You can take it to your local pub and get them to fill it with their beer tap. Way easier than doing it yourself.

It is an essential ingredient for tailgate party drinking games as it keeps the action happening fast.

80 Oz Bever. Cooling Dispenser – Style KTBEVDS

80 Oz Bever. Cooling Dispenser

Same size as the one above, this also lights up and I guess what you are paying for are the design, the concept and manufacturing as the materials are not exactly solid state, though it works and will last if you take care of it.

Like the other lit up beer towers, this one will lose its cool if you keep the lights on all the time so either get a backup ice-tube or turn the lights off from time to time.

NOTE: Put the ice-tube in the fridge (not freezer) overnight before you put the ice in to maximize the cooling effect.

3 Liter “Shorty” Beer Tube with Ice Tube

3 Liter “Shorty” Beer Tube w Ice Tube

Here’s a Beer tower that is a lot easier to cart along to your parking lot tailgate party. It still holds 3 liters (10 standard serves of beer approx..) but s only 23” tall and sits on a wide, 14” base. The tower is large, 5 ¾” in diameter and the kit includes the ice-tube insert that you can fill with ice and keep the drink cool. Because it is rather squat, it is more stable and will fit into your tailgate party food kit more easily. It is simple to transport with integrated handles and The Shorty is lightweight in design and manufacture.

So far, it’s my favorite for parking lot use due to its stability and ease of cleaning and transporting. Easier to fill also.

Chrome Metal 1-Faucet Beer Tower – 3″ Column. For Draft Beer.

Chrome Metal 1-Faucet Beer Tower

OK, so I am just including this as a comparison. If you invest in a kegerator, you can use one of these on the top for dispensing your booze. It’s chrome and has one faucet for serving and the size is 3” across and approximately 18” tall. It has 5 feet of hose leading to your beer supply (which would be in the keg) and the nuts and couplers for it are standard. Mounting gasket screws are in the kit.

Even though this is a commercial grade single faucet chrome-plated metal draft beer tower and the same tower that is found on all commercial grade kegerators such as True and Beverage Air, it’s not a heck of a lot more expensive than the cheap counter-top beer towers. Of course, buying the kegorator is another thing entirely but if your tailgate party is rowdy, the beer front and center as the entertainment, then you might want to cut straight to the pro equipment. No flashing lights though. Oh, and the counter-top models are cheap enough so that you can buy one for each beverage.

Double Tap Stainless Steel Draft Beer Kegerator Tower – 3″ Diameter

Double Tap Stainless Steel Draft Beer Kegerator Tower

And now, here’s the dual tap version. Again, you need a kegorator for this assembly to work and it is connected with 5 feet of hose.

Has a stainless steel tower with two brass taps on top to keep that beer flowing fast.

It is air cooled. Mounting assembly is included. Solidly engineered. Some people use this one for mounting on the top of a mini refrigerator and converting it into a kegorator. If home brewing is for you, then this system is perfect as you can keep the kit in the fridge to stay sterile during the process. If tailgate parties are all about the beer, then this fast-flowing tap is all about tailgate parties, particularly the home-gating type.
And for keeping those beer cans cool:

Kalorik Mini Cooler

This little cooler holds and dispenses 12 cans of beer. Or soft drink if that’s your thing. It has a built-in refrigerating system to keep all of the drinks nice and cool

The hardware is very sturdy and retro in design. You can shove it in small spaces when packing for the tailgate party.

Needs an external power source to stay cold. So really, it’s better for home-gating than tailgating. Unless you have a generator.

Now a word about cleaning your precious beer dispenser. Beer can be susceptible to bacteria if the equipment isn’t kept clean. So here are some suggestions. Cleaning is actually quite simple as the tube detaches from the base. Clean with the longest handled brush you can find.

1. Invest in this super long handled beer tower tube brush and you will make life easy after the tailgate party has long since ended and guests have migrated to the stadium to watch the play.

Beer Tower Tube Brush

The brush assembles to a 32.5” length, long enough to reach the bottom of your Yard of Beer Tower or just use it half size for the Shorty. It has a durable plastic stem with a hook on the end for convenient storage when not in use, and soft but powerful scrubbing bristle to attack the edges of the tower.

2. Rinse the tower and tap after the use. I appreciate that you may be in some remote parking lot and can’t get to a convenient place to do this immediately. So if you miss this step, you may need to progress to step 3.

3. Scrub the tower using a few drops of a detergent that has NO PERFUME.

4. Rinse, rinse and rinse again.

5. If your tower has been contaminated by yeasty molds from standing beer, soak it in a food grade bleach such as the solution baby bottles are soaked in. Milton tablets are fast and reliable (15 minutes soaking only and also don’t affect the taste of the brew) and you can buy them at

Milton Maximum Protection

Then rinse and dry prior to adding beer. It is not a bad idea to rinse it out with a shot of cheap vodka. It is a great tool to have in the first aid kit or your cleaning kit. Yes, truly. And you could even drink it after … or clean your shoes. If you have left your beer tower full of beer (yeah, that will happen – well, not at my tailgate parties … ) and have a yeasty mold problem, you can also use vinegar to clean it and then rinse well with warm water and air dry. Alternatively, throw in some grains of uncooked rice (about ¼ cup) and shake it with some warm soapy water before rinsing thoroughly to remove all residue. The combination of one or all the methods above will keep your tower 100% clean.

Filed Under: Beverages Tagged With: Beer, Beer Tower, beverage, Tailgate Party

Home Delivered Meat For The Tailgate Party

By Rawhide

OK, so you can’t have a great tailgate party without buying appropriate food. Ribs, patties, steaks, mmmmmmmmmdrool! But do I hear you say you hate spending time hanging around supermarkets checking out those meat fridges? Home delivered meat is now down to a fine art and so easy. There are all kinds of options, some are really expensive and high end and I can’t see the value But many are really appealing deals and the savings on gas and time alone make them worthwhile and the quality control of the product is usually high. Of course, you need to be sure that anything you buy on line has a 100% guarantee of quality and money back if it doesn’t live up to expectations. Better than that is to know that the product will be excellent and worthy of putting on your tailgate party menu and your BBQ.

Wellness Meats Steak – Home Delivered Meat

I’ve spent time looking around for some top quality meats that can be delivered to your door, have this guarantee, and taste great. Sure you can go to the local supermarket and buy some Manager’s Specials and transform these into burgers and ribs. I’m all for that when I have tons of time and am in the mood to do that hard work. Cheap, poor meat cuts require longer, slower cooking than you can allow in the parking lot. BBQing does need good meat. Besides, some sports occasions, such as the Superbowl, deserve a top quality approach and that’s when you pull out the organic beef and so on. You can go really high and buy the grass-fed organic beef from someone like California’s wonderful Novy Beef (local farmers’ markets are the best outlets for this particular brand) or you can save yourself the bother and have a product you know is excellent delivered right to your door whenever you feel the need to party.

Omaha Steaks is the biggest meat supplier in the USA shipping to all states.

1. Omaha Steaks 12 x 4 oz Steak Burgers

Omaha Steaks Steak Burgers

You often see the Omaha Steaks boxes being home delivered and they have a roaring trade all over this great land. At least to the contiguous states. They supply packs of patties in many different quantities, suited to tailgate party BBQing, mid-price range and pre-made into standard ground beef sizes. You can order 24 to a pack, 12, 6, 8 or 4 to a pack. So when you get to checkout, be sure to specify how many items you want to purchase.

These are pretty much patties tailored to hamburgers so add to these your buns, salad items, condiments and so on.

2. Omaha Steaks Gourmet Variety Packs

Omaha Steaks The Complete Treat

If you want something that is a bit more upmarket than a BBQ burger, you will find something in Omaha Steaks’ broad selections. They are 100% guaranteed and the packs come in different sizes in many configurations of meat cuts, vegetable accompaniments and sizes. You can get steaks, sausages, patties, even potatoes, corn, pork and different cuts of meat. There is no minimum order either. Shipping is added to the cost but you save a lot of gas, time, the food is nicely packed and the variety is quite inspiring to the tailgate party chef. Ordering through these links can give you a cheaper price than directly from the company website.

US Wellness Meats: quality grassland meat products

I also found and checked out a company, US Wellness Meats, that has become known for their personalized approach. Their products are really top-notch as their animals are all certified grass-fed which gives them a distinct taste. Delicious! Last tailgate party I attended, I took a box of their patties with me and sizzled them on the BBQ. There was no dryness and the center was juicy and a great partner food for my ice cold beer.

US Wellness Meats has a $75 minimum for shipping as it is sent to you in a special cooler box for maximum freshness and to avoid spoiling. It is labeled clearly as perishable so the mailman/woman won’t leave it to spoil on the stoop. If you are ordering for a weekend tailgate party, be sure to allow enough time for a guaranteed arrival. The shipping box is reusable and will keep food cool for a day just with normal ice and longer with dry ice.

The company specializes in beef but that’s just the start of things. They sell all kinds of meat, poultry, fish and even game. Well, if you’re tailgating at the game, maybe game is what you should eat.

3. Ground Bison – 1 Pound Package

Ground Buffalo – Home Delivered Meat

For America’s Game (and I am not talking ‘Wheel of Fortune’ here) why not choose a native American animal for your meat? Bison is the latest eating craze due to its low cholesterol and deliciousness. Healthy, lean, grass-fed bison is now available from U.S. Wellness Meats. Cook for a short time only as the product is very lean and will dry if overcooked. Makes excellent burgers or meat-loaf wrapped in bacon.

4. 75% Lean Beef Patties – 2 (6 oz) patties

Large Beef Patties – Home Delivered Meat

This takes all the work out of creating the ultimate tailgate party burger! Just order and keep frozen till the day. They come in packs of 2 so just make a list or buy a heap and keep them on hand. The patties are juicy and jsut the right balance of lean and fat meat to sizzle on your flat-top.

5. 75% Lean Ground Beef – 1 Lb. package

Meatloaf – Home Delivered Meat

Of course, you can make your own patties as long as you have great meat to begin with. Ground beef is the USA’s most popular meat and is versatile. Either make your own preferred shaped patties from this meat or make a meat loaf or rissoles. You’ll appreciate the richness the that grass-fed meat has compared with those battery-raised cattle in this pack. A generous sized beef pattie is around a quarter of a pound so 4 to a pack and so that you will be ready for the tailgate party, make these ahead and freeze them and take them to the parking lot.

6. BBQ Spice Pork Rinds

BBQ Spice Pork Rinds – Home Delivered Meat

Here’s an interesting variety that’s a great gift item or feature these as a snack at your tailgate party. Really yummy, they are almost like a spicy chicharron, that marvelous Mexican crispy delicacy. They go down extremely well with beer as a pre-BBQ nibble or you can get creative and crumble them up as a topping on a meat loaf.

7. Tender Grass-fed Barbecue recipe book

Tender Grassfed BBQ

‘Tender Grass-fed Barbecue’ is a reference for any tailgate party host or cook. This book contains Traditional, Primal and Paleo recipes that will demonstrate to you a new way to prepare grass-fed meat and pastured pork using traditional barbecue methods adapted for modern times. All the recipes in this book have been specifically created and designed for barbecuing grass-fed beef, bison, lamb, and pastured pork. There are over 120 step-by-step, easy to use recipes thoughtfully collected in this 225 page book.

The detailed barbecue techniques presented in this book will be new to most people, but are based on the traditional ways grass-fed meat was barbecued throughout history. These timeless and traditional methods are perfect for grass-fed meat, and have been adapted for modern times to be easy, yet full of wonderful, traditional flavor. Just remember that cattle were never meant to be raised in stalls, unable to exercise or munch on grass.

The recipes use traditional flavors from many nations and cultures, even ancient Rome and ancient China. Also included are rediscovered bastes and marinades from the Native American traditions, the gauchos of Argentina, many European nations, the barbecue masters of Sardinia, and more.

Recipe books are mailed separately from perishable items via USPS media mail service.

A GIFT CERTIFICATE – SUITS EVERY RECIPIENT.

8. $50 US Wellness Meats Gift Certificate

$50 Wellness Meats Gift Certificate

Gift certificates make great gifts, and what better gift than items from US Wellness Meats for your best mates? Ideal for the BBQ cook, tailgate party host, male, female, young and old. No more agonizing over what to buy for that guy who has everything. Most tailgaters can’t get enough meat! The gift certificates start at $50 but I noticed that the orders need to be $75 so 2 certificates make sense. If your Mom is the chef at your tailgate parties, maybe give her a reward of these great gift cards.

AND A BONUS – FISH IS MEAT TOO …

9. Sockeye Salmon Burger

Sockeye Salmon Burger – Home Delivered Meat

At tailgate parties, it’s actually possible to invite guests who are bacon and beef averse. Yes, such a creature does exist. I haven’t met anyone who hates bacon but maybe it’s your responsibility as host of your tailgate party to be prepared to cater for someone who does. I’ve included this great salmon burger, already prepared so you don’t have to do a thing. It makes a thoughtful gift too. Each pack contains one fully prepared Alaskan Salmon burger, standard size is ¼ pounder and they are all pre-seasoned.

Like all the products from this butcher, this can be ordered online and you will have it delivered to you or your friends ready to slap on the BBQ. A grass-fed meat and caught-in-the-wild fish hamper – what’s not to love about that! Yes, you can cook any of these meats at your tailgate party and you will be delighted with the taste as well as the lack of effort.

NOTE:

For that special person in your life, consider sending them a box of meat instead of tchotchkes at gift time. You really can’t do better than that and food gifts are always welcome, especially if the recipient is as keen on tailgate parties as you are.

Filed Under: Food Tagged With: BBQ, Food, Meat, Tailgate Party

The Best Beer Koozies To Keep Your Drink Frosty.

By Tailgator

Keeping beers cold (in your hand) is an important skill at tailgate parties. It has led to the invention of that customizable commodity, the ‘Koozie’. And here’s a list of the best beer koozies to keep your drink frosty for the tailgate party.

Yes, now ‘Koozie’ is a real word, in Urban Dictionary! It’s not too long before someone will open a Koozie exhibit in a museum as the inscriptions, logos, pictures and shapes of these items tell lots of stories about their owners. They’ve come a long way from those old-timey knitted or crocheted drink holders.

Here’s the official definition:

‘A cylindrical insulator for beer can and beer bottles (it probably also works with other beverages in aluminum cans or glass bottles). Usually made from foam and cloth and sold at convenience stores.’

(alternative spelling ‘coozie’)

The beer koozie (koō-zie), “beer hugger”, or “beer huggie” is a misnomer as it is not always used for an alcoholic beverages. Other names are “coastie”, “cozy”[ “coosie”, “coolie”, “coldy-holdy”, “can cooler”, “beer sleeve”, and “bottle jacket”. In Australia it is called a “stubby holder” due to the shape of the 375 millilitres (13.2 imp fl oz; 12.7 US fl oz) bottles of beer being shorter and fatter compared with the more slender 330 millilitres (12 imp fl oz; 11 US fl oz) bottles.

Simply put, the ‘Koozie’ is an insulated, sometimes ornamental slip-on cover to keep a can of beer or other drink cool while hand-held.

Do they work? I’ve tested a heap of these of different types. They are all effective in varying degrees. The very best is not necessarily the most fun and it is:

Thermos Stainless steel can insulator

Thermos Stainless Steel Can Insulator

Yes, it works – it keeps drinks cold for hours, even in extreme heat, the Middle East, Mexico and the Mojave Desert which is what you may want. It’s almost indestructible and holds your cans tightly, almost vacuum sealing them into the Koozie. Icy cold for an hour and cold for two hours and cool for two more hours. It fits into most cars’ drink container (an elastic band will keep that tight or a sheet of paper towel, but really, you don’t need it to be that tight.) The can will sit quite low in the koozie but don’t push it in all the way and it is fine. If you are using non-standard small cans, try putting a paper towel beneath, folded small into a little mat. MSRP = $14.75

But for those who don’t need an extreme beer cooler and prefer that added zing of fun … there are many alternatives. Any party or group of friends wanting a bit of a laugh while enjoying a cold beer is somewhere you can often see a wide range of Koozies. They can be personalized, printed with messages, logos or anything and you will find them among team licensed merchandise such as this Raiders one:

Oakland Raiders Koozie Soda Can Holder

Definitely, you can add to your atmosphere by choosing your Koozie collection with some plan in mind. If you want everything to look like it coordinates with your team, that is an easy task. You can buy Koozies that have you team logo, or just in team colors.

But here are some that really made me laugh. I think they’d be terrific hostess gifts or stocking stuffers. Oh, and you can use them for any cans – mixed spirits, soft drinks, mineral water… some are a little on the adult side though and if political correctness is your thing, you’re not coming to my tailgate party anyway!

A word about their ability to keep beer cold: they do an average job. They are not expected to stay cold for hours, but they do stop your hands from warming the contents of the can and keep the chill in quite efficiently for an hour or more. That is more time than it takes to drink a beer.The plastic can be a little slippery with condensation, but, well, there’s plenty to grab hold of.

Average price is around $9.

DCI DrinKooliez Drink Sleeve Koozie, Assorted

These come in a few different designs and the one shaped like a coconut cocktail with an umbrella on the side cracks me up as does the Don Draper Bourbon glass …

Next is a simple red plastic cup approach. Don’t over-think this one!

Big Mouth Toys Kool Koozie, The Red Cup

The red cup style may just be the ultimate post-modern piece of self-reflexive design. But wait, there’s more …

Big Mouth Toys Prescription / Pill Bottle Drink Kooler

Big Mouth Toys Prescription Pill Bottle Drink Kooler

Think your beer is therapeutic? Now you can make it look the part with this Koozie that looks like a prescription pill bottle. Tailgate party stress will be relieved in an instant!

Big Mouth Toys The Beast Giant Fist Shaped Drink

Big Mouth Toys The Beast Giant Fist Shaped Drink Kooler

Does this one confuse you? At your tailgate party you could embellish the fist adding chains, dog tags, a watch, a bracelet, a hand-cuff or … well, you decide!

Boobzie – Classic Collection

Boobzie Can Koozie

Ah, now we come to the classy ones! They will certainly be a talking point at your tailgate party. The more worthy among us have made a nice link between these and breast cancer awareness while others just state that the combo of breasts and beer is a tailgate party must!

Boobzie – Classic Collection

Boobzie Can Koozie

Insert your own boob joke here (though it’s a bit redundant as the Koozies above and below ARE the joke). Besides, I’ve probably heard them all at some tailgate party or other.

“World Cups” (Sporty collection) Boobzie Can Cover / Koozie

“World Cups” (Sporty collection) Boobzie

Boobzie – Special Occasion Collection

“First Aid” Boobzie Can Cover / Koozie

There are many more in this range and as a novelty with a purpose, they will add some laughs to your event.

Big Mouth Toys Toilet Shaped Drink Kooler

Some drinkers wait until after the party to have their heads in the toilet. With this one, you can remind yourself where you don’t want to end up

Finally, just a word of warning if you have to travel to your tailgate party … don’t take this last one to the airport! It needs no further comment!

Big Mouth Toys Gun Shaped Drink Kooler

Filed Under: Accessories, Beverages Tagged With: Accessories, beverage, drinks, Koozie, Tailgate Party

Amazing Shot Glasses That Will Astound Tailgate Party Guests!

By Rawhide

Himalayan Salt Tequila Shot Glass – Set of 4 Glasses

Himalayan Salt Tequila Shot Glass

Recently, I was at a friend’s house and she initiated me into the world of Himalayan Salt – she has salt blocks to cook on and these shot glasses. Now I can attest that (at least to my refined and elegant palate) drinking several shots of rough as guts tequila from these enhances the experience. At least I think it did. We had really cheap Tequila initially. They went down a treat. Then some Reposado. Even better. Some of the liqueur ‘43’ which was AMAZING when served in this salty glass. They are hand-carved from blocks of salt from Nepal and thereabouts and wow, you don’t need to dust the rim of your glass with anything. Somehow, this cuts through the roughness. Occasionally, your booze will erode a little hairline crack or pinhole which will allow the grog to seep out so do drink it fast. Never been a problem at tailgate parties as we tend to be efficient with our drinking. That’s all the advice I can offer right now. Oh, apart from ‘order more than one set so you’ll minimize your postage and have some backups in case of breakages or melting. And follow the directions for cleaning and storage that are given on the pack.’ Enjoy this amazing creation. P.S. when your shot glasses are deteriorating, just put them in a ziplock back and pound them with the rolling pin and use them as salt to cook with. You get four to a set, they are cutting edge popular but not always available.

Filed Under: Beverages Tagged With: beverage, Shot Glasses, Tailgate Party

The Best Small Portable TVs For Tailgate Parties Reviewed

By Rawhide

If you want the best of both worlds, you probably wish you had a TV in your pocket, could double up, watching games in the parking lot while you play those games, chomp on those ribs and swill that cool amber liquid. Elsewhere, I have written out the ‘how to’ list for getting a signal anywhere you travel by investing in a satellite dish and all that goes with it. But here are some small, almost pocket sized screens – personal televisions – that will keep you in touch with the crucial touchdowns, goals and points. Some can be hooked up to your vehicle with a car charge but these are almost always an optional accessory.

I’ve checked them out from the smallest screen ie. phones, to medium (3.5”) to the larger ones 7”. All can be classed as pocket TVs and as a way of catching up with away games when you are in the home parking lot tailgating, most are effective in different ways and OK as backups for emergency power outages. You don’t need to miss a game ever!

Watch TV on a phone’s tiny screen? Everyone does that these days! Or, do they?

1. Siano Meron Mobile TV Tuner for Smartphones & Tablets. Supports DVB-T and ISDB-T

TV Tuner for Smartphones & Tablets

No need for an internet connection but with this gadget you can use your Android or Apple device to watch TV anywhere.

Well, anywhere in Europe, Asia and Africa using DVB-T. Also Japan and South America using ISDB-T. Sadly, USA, Canada, Mexico, Korea or China are out in the cold and not supported so forget this for tailgating. A free SianoTV application from Apple App Store or Google Play lets you to tune in and enjoy your favorite programs. Video: http://youtu.be/itztNQIJybI

Pros: The box plugs in and you can follow the video for instructions on setting it up. Simple.

Cons: NFG for USA, Canada, Mexico, Korea and China. What, no tailgating there? Not even for soccer and baseball? Needs a top of the range Apple or Android to device to run it.

Bottom Line

Forget this one for USA/Canadian tailgating.

In New York, there’s Aereo OTA TV delivered to your Smartphone but that’s still not generally available in the USA.

Watch this space for new updates as Aereo is expanding in the coming year. Oh, and start saving now for a whopping big data plan if you want to watch games on your phone.

The alternative is one of the small, pocket size portable TVs.

2. Belkin Dyle Wireless Mobile TV Receiver for 30-Pin iPhone and iPad in Select Coverage Areas

Belkin Dyle Wireless Mobile TV Receiver for 30-Pin iPhone and iPad

Pros

There are other actual OTA alternatives to the Aereo service. From Belkin Dyle come these two interesting dongles that plug into the power ports of an iPhone or iPad. These are a real TV tuner as well as a telescoping whip antenna, the Escort Mobile TV Receiver and the Elgato EyeTV Mobile TV Tuner. Both use Dyle’s mobile TV app. and both are fully supported by broadcasters. They will work wherever you can receive OTA television and the impact on your data plan is minimal. But of course, you are watching teams running around on a tiny screen. Still, it keeps you in touch with the game-plays. Check to make sure that your tailgate party will be held in the coverage area.

Cons

You have a couple of gadgets hanging off your phone whenever you want to watch TV.

Small screen viewing.

Suited to limited areas only. Be sure to check coverage.

Does not work with Lightning connectors. Is designed for the 30 pin plug on older Apple devices.

No rechargeable battery and short battery life.

The Bottom Line

For using in the parking lot at tailgate parties, it just may not have the channel choices you need. Do you homework and contact the company prior to purchase. And make sure also that it is compatible with your phone.

3. RCA DHT235A 3.5-Inch LED-lit 720p 60Hz TV (Silver)

RCA DHT235A 3.5-Inch LED-lit 720p 60Hz TV (Silver)

Pros

3.5-Inch Bright LED Backlit LCD Display

Receive Free off-air DTV RF Channels

Operate with AA Batteries (X4) or AC Adaptor(opt.)

Real Time Signal Strength Displayed

Weight: 5.6 ounces

VIDEO MPEG-2 video decoding MP at ML, MP at HL ATSC 18 formats.

Audio decoding Digital multi-lingual.

Terrestrial ATSC 8VSB Terrestrial NTSC CH2 – CH69 Embedded Monopole Antenna.

AV OUT Headphone and built-in speaker for audio output and headphones give clear sound.

Receive Current Analog NTSC Channels

Instructions included.

Runs 2 hours without battery change. (use recyclables and keep a stash in the tailgate party kit.)

Digital Closed Captioning complies with E1A-708B.

Additional Features, on-screen program information display.

Direct channel changing DRF

Menu languages English and Spanish

Real-time signal strength display

Auto time setting

Auto channel scan

Channel editing

Time zone setting

Cons

If you use it a lot you can get the AC power adapter or 4 AA rechargeable batteries and a small charger for about $15. But if you use it in an emergency you’ll need to keep some alkaline batteries and hope that the TV stations are still transmitting!

On board antenna is quite fragile. An external antenna can be fitted and you can get around 70 channels. That’s pretty good. Just the antenna is hard to source so you should probably order one at the same time as the TV.

Quite a small screen but then people watch movies on phones so ….

The Bottom Line

Great for picking up different games when say, you are tailgating in one parking lot and you have an interest in another game somewhere else that is being broadcast.

Also it is invaluable as a news gathering source in emergencies, such as Hurricane Sandy. Keep a ton of batteries in your kit1

Watch the game in the parking lot on this color LCD 3.5-Inch Diagonal, 320 x 240 digital RGB resolution that will pick up channels anywhere. AUDIO Dolby Digital Portable and modern, this lightweight TV operates on 4 AA batteries or AC. Batteries on this one can be replaced so that you don’t need to miss the game due to recharging requirements.

Offers high quality reception, signal strength display, on-screen program information and channel displays.

Even though it is small, it is powerful and very useful.

4. Digital Prism 3.5 in Handheld Digital Lcd Tv

Digital Prism 3.5 in Handheld Digital Lcd Tv

Pros

Integrated tuner receives all digital broadcasts.

Has a car charger as well as built in rechargeable battery – this sets it apart somewhat.

Simple little controls.

Cons

Small (3.5”) but maybe you could say ‘compact’ instead.

Battery doesn’t last more than an hour.

Can’t be hooked up to external antenna.

Signal strength is very dependent on location.

The Bottom Line

It’s probably OK as an emergency backup TV for communication in a disaster but won’t see you through a game if you’re tailgating. There are others with a lot more oomph.

5. Sungale ITV430 Kula 4.3-Inch Internet TV

Sungale ITV430 Kula 4.3-Inch Internet TV

Pros

Will theoretically work all over the world.

Is ‘Internet TV’ in an early iteration.

Cons

Was released in 2010 and technology has marched on.

4.3” – low res so is really hard to watch compared with other models reviewed.

Plays video but with no fast forward or replay.

Channels are not updated and so this means that many cannot be reached.

The Bottom Line:

Pay a little more and get a lot more oomph!

6. Eviant T4 4.3″ Portable Color Digital ATSC NTSC LCD TV DTV

Eviant T4 4.3″ Portable Color Digital ATSC NTSC LCD TV DTV

Features:

4.3 “ screen

16:9 ratio

Weight = 7.4 ounces

Portable Color Digital ATSC NTSC LCD TV DTV

Pros:

Has a headphone jack. You can listen while you are flipping those ribs!

Charges with a USB connector. 5 V mini – such as a phone charger.

2 hour battery life

Picks up many TV channels with a scan

Great little backup TV for emergency use in power outages (keep it charged up).

Very inexpensive.

Clear English instruction book for setup supplied

1 year warranty

Cons:

2009 technology.

External antenna supplied but you cannot hook up a ordinary coaxial cable to it as the jack is a mini size.

Very small screen.

Shipping availability – Currently, item can be shipped only within the U.S.

You cannot hook up a DVD player to this unit.

Sound is not great but is OK with a set of iPod headphones or similar.

3 hour recharge required after battery depletes.

Need to rescan to find channels – can’t manually add them.

Only NTSC – not PAL or SECAM so not good for international travel.

If you move the unit, the aerial may re-select channels or lose picture.

Bottom Line:

As somewhat dated technology, it is competing with the Smartphones but is a very cheap option as something to keep in the tailgate party kit or as emergency backup.

7. RCA DPTM70R 7-Inch 60Hz 480 x 234 LED-Lit TV

RCA DPTM70R 7-Inch 60Hz 480 x 234 LED-Lit TV

Pros

First internet TV – no subscription required for TV channels.

Large 7” screen

LED Backlit LCD Display

Hundreds of channel organized by country, language subject or genres,

Built-in 2 G memory.

Receive Free off-air DTV Channels

Receive Current Analog NTSC Channels

SD Flash Drive and USB supports Jpeg, MP3, MPEG 1,2,4, Divx

Rechargeable non-standard battery included

USB connection – many phone connectors will fit.

480×272 pixels – quite a clear picture for the size.

Comes with a 100-240 vac plug in adapter

Most cable boxes are compatible. Check specs. before buying.

2.5 hours battery life. 3 hours to recharge.

Has a tiny remote

Has a small stand built in

Has coax cable connector space at top left

Card reader slot.

Can be hooked up to DVD

Cons

Small screen

Does not connect to car power input (though may connect to USB cable in modern car).

Not HD

For optimum use, an external antenna will enhance viewing choices. See DTA206 Portable Mini Digital TV Antenna.

The Bottom Line

Value for money, on the market since March 2012 so is already discounted as ageing technology compared with Smartphones and tablets. The RCA 7-Inch ATSC Portable Digital TV is quite pleasant to watch. Football games can be seen end to end on the 16:9 screen. With an embedded ATSC and NTSC hybrid tuner you can enjoy a wide array of live TV plus video. Two built-in stereo speakers, button navigation, and an on-screen menu display are enhance your experience, along with digital closed captioning, parental controls, and a built-in rechargeable battery. As an emergency TV, if you are without power, you need an inverter of some kind to recharge in the car. Effectiveness of channels will depend on your area or you can connect to a satellite box but most users report that they can find a broad selection of channels easily.

8. Supersonic 7″ Portable LCD TV with ATSC Digital Tuner

Supersonic 7″ Portable LCD TV with ATSC Digital Tuner

Pros

7”

16:9 (see the whole ground for games!)

Earphone jack.

Full function remote

Power: UL Approved Adapter:AC 100-240V, 50/60Hz & DC 12 Volt Compatibility

Maximum Power Consumption: 18 Watts

Input Terminals: Component, Audio/ Video/ Audio Headphones

Accessories: Remote Control, AC Adapter, Car Cord, A/V Cables, Rod Antenna and Instruction Manual

Maximum Power Consumption: 18 Watts

Inexpensive.

Supplied antenna is fine, no need to buy an additional one.

Cons

Weighs 2 pounds

Takes 2 hours approximately to charge but battery will burn out if you leave it on charge for more than 3 hours so take care!

Some people have had issues with picking up channels but it seems to work fine.

The Bottom Line

This is a good little unit for using to watch games – it will pick up channels using the external (included) antenna. Good picture and great as an emergency backup in power outages. Nice sized screen for a personal TV. Battery just lasts the length of a game and I would turn it off in ad breaks.

9. Axion AXN-8706 120 Hz 7-Inch Widescreen Portable LCD TV

Axion AXN-8706 120 Hz 7-Inch Widescreen Portable LCD TV

Pros

7” LCD Widescreen is a good size for watching games at tailgate parties from the parking lot.

Built-In rechargeable Li-polymer battery

Built-In ATSC tuner and digital media player.

Has a headphone jack to maximize a lite audio output.

Great reception, color and picture.

Inexpensive. Good for tailgate parties as well as emergencies involving power outages.

Has a little remote. Not really for fat fingers, but does the job OK.

Equipped with USB port and a SD memory card slot plus MP4 capability.

Good in static conditions as the antenna must be attached to a metal surface (magnetic base)

Cons

Broadcasts in 480 only which is low res but pretty much standard for 7” screens.

Car charger not supplied (you can buy one that fits though).

Battery only lasts 2 hours and needs a long charging (overnight).

Can’t use in a travelling vehicle.

The Bottom Line:

Picks up local channels and networks OTA (NBC, CBS, Fox, ABC etc.) rather than cable and 7” is a good, workable size for watching sports from the parking lot while enjoying tailgate parties and this one seems to be less flimsy than most similar small units in this low price range. Nice to have as a backup, too, for emergencies as you can getadditional 12 volt power packs to provide DC power if AC power is out and the battery is flat. Plus you can buy a car charger as an accessory and run it from the cigarette lighter. Very handy unit.

Filed Under: Accessories Tagged With: Accessories, Tailgate Party, Televisions, TV

Archives for January 2014

The Best Ring Toss Sets For The Tailgate Party

10 Best Beer Bongs For The Tailgate Party Reviewed

Best Beer Towers For The Tailgate Party Reviewed

Home Delivered Meat For The Tailgate Party

The Best Beer Koozies To Keep Your Drink Frosty.

Amazing Shot Glasses That Will Astound Tailgate Party Guests!

The Best Small Portable TVs For Tailgate Parties Reviewed

Cornhole Games: The Ultimate Guide

Tailgate Party Games: Chandeliers

Tailgate Food: The Best Recipes & Ideas

Best Portable Pizza Ovens Reviewed – 2017 revised list.