Outdoor Scrutinizing the Dead Bird Recoil Staff October 6, 2016 Join the Conversation Are you a fan of so-called “Dead Bird” gear? Arc'teryx builds some of the most popular snivel kit and extreme weather technical apparel in the world. A writer called Hendrik Morkel recently journeyed to Vancouver, Canada, toured the Arc'teryx manufactory as part of a trip to observe the launch of Voltair and Procline. He discussed his visit on the website Hiking Finland. All photos courtesy Hendrik Morkel and HikingFinland.com. Scrutinizing the Dead Bird Says Morkel (who is clearly an Arc'teryx fan), “What goes into designing a jacket like the Arc’teryx Alpha SV Jacket? How is it made? Who makes it? Where is it made? After my visit to the Arc’teryx factory in North Vancouver – one of four factories Arc’teryx operates in Canada – these are questions I feel I have the answers to. If you’re a gear nerd like me then visiting a factory – an Arc’teryx factory! – is like entering the holy halls of outdoor gear making. There’s so much skill and knowledge going into making these garments which we take out to the mountains and forests on our adventures that it’s inspiring to see it happen in front of your eyes, ask questions and of course take photos.” While there, Morkel was able to watch the gear as it was made, discuss methodologies and design philosophies with Arc'teryx principals and learn how they train their personnel. “[Arc'teryx sewing staff] learn in a 12 week sewing training programme all the skills they need to work at the Arc’teryx factory – from sewing over taping and learning about the Lean programme. They have a 94% graduate rate of this programme, and the employees made a happy & proud impression on me. Arc’teryx cares well for their employees, with regular breaks, being able to switch up stations, good pay – and many were also sporting Arc’teryx garments, some even garments which they sewed just for themselves! The trainees of the sewing programme also do good, as they make from excess material Ponchos for the homeless of Vancouver and give these away for free to those in need.” Read the rest of the story in its entirety and see the entire gallery of images right here. Explore RECOILweb:Blackwater Launches BW-15 - Civilian Warrior RifleThe Ashley Update: Tactical Rifles of the 1850sBook Review: "To Ride, Shoot Straight, and Speak the Truth" by Jeff CooperOffroad 101: Bug-Out Vehicle Basics NEXT STEP: Download Your Free Target Pack from RECOILFor years, RECOIL magazine has treated its readers to a full-size (sometimes full color!) shooting target tucked into each big issue. Now we've compiled over 50 of our most popular targets into this one digital PDF download. From handgun drills to AR-15 practice, these 50+ targets have you covered. Print off as many as you like (ammo not included). Get your pack of 50 Print-at-Home targets when you subscribe to the RECOIL email newsletter. We'll send you weekly updates on guns, gear, industry news, and special offers from leading manufacturers - your guide to the firearms lifestyle.You want this. Trust Us.