Regardless of how you use your dog, you will need a leash and collar. As a hunter, I want something that is strong, durable, and can be seen in low visibility. While I am training my dog, I want something that can stay with the dog as our training advances. These products need to be multifunctional, so I’m not constantly purchasing new leashes and collars. Enter the Chain Reaction collar and Slackline leash from Ruffwear. As mentioned in the Bivy Bowls article, “Best Dog Bowls for Camping,”, Ruffwear is a company that specializes in outdoor gear for your dog.
I would consider Ruffwear’s Chain Reaction a hybrid collar. They’ve combined a traditional Nylon-type collar and a choke-chain into a single unit. Ruffwear uses a process they’ve named Tubelock in the construction of their webbing. It makes the collar have a softer feel than traditional nylon-type collars and does so without sacrificing strength. Tubelock gives Ruffwear more creativity in their designs, even adding low-light visibility features (reflective).
With the hybrid design, the Chain Reaction can be used for conditioning, lease control, or as a standard collar. It should be noted, the cinch design is limited compared to a full on choke chain. If you are worried about hurting your dog, don’t be. There is also a single-point V-ring integrated into the webbing on the collar so it can be used without any cinch actions. Finally, any hunter will appreciate the silicone tag silencer to keep the dog tags quite as you move through woods or fields.
Chain Reaction Collar — MSRP: $24.95
Sizing
Small                    11-14 in (28-36 cm)
Medium              14-20 in (36-51 cm)
Large                    20-26 in (51-66 cm)
Colors                  Gray, Blue, Red, and Orange
The Slackline is a multi-purpose adjustable leash. You can use it traditionally, wear it on your waist (good while running or keeping your hands free while holding a weapon), or set it to short/long depending on your needs. There are two metal sliders used to adjust the leash for whatever your purpose  – one near the connection point and one near the hand-loop. The Slackline also uses the Tubelock process for strength, comfort, and design features. This leash has the same low-light visibility feature as the Chain Reaction collar.
The metal slider near the hand loop has a break in it, so the handle can attach to anything the leash will accommodate. This comes in handy if you need to secure your dog to a tree, rock, or some other large irregular-sized object while you complete a task. The adjustable length of the Slackline is 3.5-6 ft. As a K9 handler, I had to carry around multiple leashes so I could perform various tasks with my partner. I wish there had been something with the same multi-functional abilities as the Slackline during that time.
Slackline Leash — MSRP: $39.95
Colors                  Gray, Blue, Red, and Orange
Both the Chain Reaction and Slackline can be purchased directly from Ruffwear (Chain Reaction, Slackline) or from Amazon here: Chain Reaction and Slackline. If you are a more hands-on buyer, you can take a look at some of Ruffwear’s products at your local Sportsman’s Warehouse. Additionally, there are many other leashes and collars available on Ruffwear’s website.  Most importantly, make sure you get the one that fits your needs.
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(Featured image courtesy of Ruffwear.com)
