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To learn about our review methodology, as well as our approach to product testing, please visit our About page.
David McGillivray
Writer
Outdoor Living Specialist
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Profile
Join date: May 26, 2025
About
With over 20 years of service as a U.S. Army First Sergeant, David McGillivray brings experience, discipline, and reliability to everything he does. His background means he doesn’t just talk about gear, safety, or travel—he’s lived it. If a product is made to serve a real-world function, chances are David’s tested it in action.
Now the owner of Bull Creek Outdoors, David leads workshops and outdoor adventures focused on wilderness survival and practical preparedness. His hands-on approach to training covers everything from reliable trail gear to eco-conscious living.
When it comes to reviewing products, David keeps it straightforward and honest. He’s known for cutting through the fluff to evaluate what truly works. For him, quality isn’t about price tags. It’s about performance when it counts. Whether in the field or everyday life, he believes the best gear is the kind that delivers when you need it most.
EXPERIENCE
Bull Creek Outdoors - Owner (Dahlonega, GA)
Product Tester
Writer and Editor
Fly Fishing Guide Program - Colorado Outdoor Adventure Guide School - 2022
Wilderness First Aid - American Safety & Health Institute (ASHI) - 2022
SARTECH III certification - National Association for Search and Rescue - 2016
Military Mountaineer Course - Army Mountain Warfare School - 2005
Posts (23)
Apr 15, 2026 ∙ 9 min
What Is The Best Bluetooth Headset For Truckers? A Gearhead's Review
As a truck driver, I rely on my headset to make phone calls, receive route updates, and transmit messages. Here's my personal ranking. Note: Prices were correct at the time of writing. FYI, I included hands-on feedback from multiple contributors who used these products in different environments. 1. BlueParrott - Best Noise-Canceling Bluetooth Headset KEY TAKEAWAY: Exceptional noise canceling keeps calls clear even inside a loud truck cab. WHY I CHOSE IT: I’m a truck driver and needed a new...
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Apr 13, 2026 ∙ 8 min
Best Workout Shorts For Men: Tested And Ranked By A Gym Rat In 2026
I tested several popular shorts for working out and these are my top picks. They combine high performance fabric with a sleek and flattering fit. Note: Prices were correct at the time of writing. FYI, I included hands-on feedback from multiple contributors who used these products in different environments. 1. NORTHYARD - Best Budget Workout Shorts KEY TAKEAWAY: Fast drying fabric made these feel really practical for workouts. WHY I BOUGHT THEM: Finding a good pair of athletic shorts sometimes...
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Apr 12, 2026 ∙ 3 min
Powerbeats Pro 2: Tested And Reviewed By An Actual Gym Buff
I tested the Powerbeats Pro 2 to see if they could keep up with my workouts, and they sure did. Here's my hands-on review and some photos. Note: Prices were correct at the time of writing. I just want to say up front, I actually preordered these and have only been using them for four days, so this is definitely a first impression. Normally I’d wait a while before talking about something new, but after seeing so many negative reviews, I just felt like I had to chime in. I really don’t get...
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Apr 9, 2026 ∙ 11 min
Best Plasma Cutters For The Money: Ranked By A Metalworker In 2026
I tested the best plasma cutters under $500, and here's my ultimate ranking. Whether you're a seasoned professional or all about DIY, each of these would work. Note: Prices were correct at the time of writing. FYI, I included hands-on feedback from multiple contributors who used these products in different environments. 1. Lotos - Best Plasma Cutter for Beginners KEY TAKEAWAY: Makes cutting steel much easier for beginners. WHY I BOUGHT IT: As a gunsmith, I'd never though I'd need a plasma...
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Apr 6, 2026 ∙ 13 min
Best Swimming Goggles: We Tested And Ranked 6 Cool Picks In 2026
We finally found goggles that don’t leak, don’t hurt, and work great as open water swim goggles too. Here are some photos along with hands-on reviews. Note: Prices were correct at the time of writing. FYI, I included hands-on feedback from multiple contributors who used these products in different environments. 1. FORM Smart Swim 2 - Best Smart Swim Goggles KEY TAKEAWAY: The ability to see live split times during every lap completely changed the way I train. WHY I UPGRADED: The real reason I...
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Apr 5, 2026 ∙ 14 min
Best Mig Welders For The Money: By To A Backyard Welder
Whether you’re working in the shop or at home, a MIG welder is crucial for precision and efficiency. These options are designed for both beginners and pros. Note: Prices were correct at the time of writing. FYI, I included hands-on feedback from multiple contributors who used these products in different environments. 1. ArcCaptain 200Amp - Best Professional MIG Welder KEY TAKEAWAY: Small enough to carry around, but powerful enough for serious shop work. PRICE POINT: After trying a few at a...
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Apr 4, 2026 ∙ 7 min
Best Wood Planers: Ranked By A DIYer In 2026
Thickness planers are a necessity when it comes to reducing thickness of a piece of wood. My picks will help you achieve precision and smoothness. Note: Prices were correct at the time of writing. FYI, I included hands-on feedback from multiple contributors who used these products in different environments. 1. DEWALT (DW735X) Thickness Planer - Best Professional Thickness Planer KEY TAKEAWAY: Gives rough lumber a polished, professional finish. WHY I BOUGHT IT: I need to build my presentation...
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Apr 1, 2026 ∙ 12 min
Best Solar Pool Covers For Inground & Above Ground Pools [2026]
These affordable solar pool covers will keep your pool warm, decrease energy costs, keep bugs and debris out, and protect kids and pets from injury. Note: Prices were correct at the time of writing. FYI, I included hands-on feedback from multiple contributors who used these products in different environments. 1. BigXwell - Best Heavy-Duty Solar Pool Cover KEY TAKEAWAY: The thicker material made a noticeable difference in heat retention overnight. POOL HEATING: I researched so many different...
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Apr 1, 2026 ∙ 13 min
Homeowners Review The Best Robot Lawn Mowers Of The Year
The best robotic lawn mowers are fully-automatic, easy to set up and program, and very quiet. Here’s our hands-on ranking of the best options on Amazon. Note: Prices were correct at the time of writing. My yard has been driving me crazy for as long as I can remember. Then I got a robotic lawn mower for my birthday. For the first time in my life, I was able to automate the mowing and finally get consistent results. I genuinely recommend the options reviewed here. However, if you’re looking for...
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Mar 29, 2026 ∙ 9 min
Best Cowboy Boots For Men: Most Comfortable Picks Tested By Cowboys
Cowboy boots are a country classic. They're worn all year round, and they’re proof that Western style is here to stay. Here's my personal ranking. Note: Prices were correct at the time of writing. FYI, I included hands-on feedback from multiple contributors who used these products in different environments. 1. Ariat - Best Leather Cowboy Boots KEY TAKEAWAY: Wide square toe made these way more comfortable than pointed boots. MATERIALS: Ariat makes some of the best boots on the market today....
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Mar 26, 2026 ∙ 4 min
Sun Joe Dethatcher Review [2026]: By An American DIY Landscaper
If you want to get your lawn in top green shape and you’re looking for an affordable solution, the Sun Joe is probably the best electric dethatcher you can get. Note: Prices were correct at the time of writing. Before trying the Sun Joe Dethatcher, I referred to myself as my wife’s yard man. Well now, I’ve officially been promoted to gardener. The reason I wrote this review was my personal experience with a lawn that's always been a challenge. No matter how well I mowed it, the grass always...
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Mar 25, 2026 ∙ 11 min
Wireless Security Cameras Review [2026]: Hands-On Testing
These smart security camera systems will work anywhere your Wi-Fi reaches. They'll keep your property safe day and night, with instant phone alerts. Note: Prices were correct at the time of writing. FYI, I included hands-on feedback from multiple contributors who used these products in different environments. 1. REOLINK Argus PT - Best Solar Security Camera KEY TAKEAWAY: Solar panel kept this camera running without constantly worrying about charging. FIRST IMPRESSIONS: This is Karen's husband...
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