Binoculars are a necessity, but they can be a pain in the neck.

S4Gear has introduced its new ultra-lightweight LockDownX Optics Deployment System. That's a big bunch of words for binocular straps, but the system looks pretty high tech and comfortable.

The LockDownX was designed to evenly distribute the weight of the binoculars across your back to eliminate shoulder or neck tension, while holding the binoculars close to your body in just about any position.

The LockDownX's wide, low-profile binocular shield protects the optics, but keeps the binoculars handy.

It's available in black or Realtree; $54.99 for black and $64.99 for Realtree.

For more information, go to www.s4gear.com/

Picky pooches will drink from this portable bowl

By Shelby Sheehan-Bernard, McClatchy-Tribune

Despite dogs' willingness to drink the dirtiest standing water available, they often get finicky when it comes to portable dishes -- regardless of how convenient the design may seem.

H2O4K9's stainless steel dog water bottle and bowl is perfect for the pickiest pooch. It includes a water bottle with a lid that converts to a handheld bowl, which is designed to accommodate a dog's natural drinking style. Just twist off the lid and pour directly into it.

The bottle is made from stainless steel for cleanliness, durability and long life. Its screw-top lid keeps the bottle from leaking and is made from BPA-free polypropylene.

H2O4K9's stainless steel dog water bottle is available in a range of fun, high-visibility colors, including black, yellow, blue, green, red and pink. Lid/bowl is black.

The bottle is available in two sizes, 9.5 ounces and 25 ounces. The 9.5-ounce size is $9.99, and the 25-ounce size is $14.95.

To purchase or to find retailers, go to www.h2o4k9.com.