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Q: Can you give me a quick benefit comparison of the heat packs?
A: Certainly. First, let's talk about the Disposables. Depending on your circumstances you can get several short term (1-2Hr) uses, or a couple of long term (8-9Hr) uses out of the Disposable packs before they're exhausted. The Disposables can be stored at any temperature and don't need to be recharged (by boiling in water or heating in microwave) before use. They're air activated & will maintain their unused energy as long as they're stored in an airtight ziploc bag which we include w/each Bitten. Their long-lasting heat generation make them ideal if you plan additional use of the Bitten as a hand or body warmer during your ride.
The Reusable heat packs cost a bit more up front but will save money in the long run. They heat quickly and last for about 30 minutes. They need to be recharged by boiling in water for about 10 minutes. They're a little more sensitive about storage temperatures. They should be kept inside at warm temps until you use them, as extended exposure to cold will solidify the gel and you'd have to re-liquify them. In short, unlike the Disposable packs which can be stored at any temp, you can't leave the Reusable packs outside in your barn or shed. And, you can't use them as a hand or body warmer on your ride because of their short term heat generation. However, you can use them over & over & over again, and that can be a desirable quality.
For economy, go with the Reusable. For longer periods of heat generation, use the Disposable. We recommend you keep a few of both on hand for the varying conditions of different days, temps, weather, & personal preferences.
Q: Which heat packs come with the Bitten?
A: Every Bitten comes with two Disposable heat packs, which will last for a couple of long terms uses or several short term uses. If this is the type of heat pack you think you'll use most often, we recommend getting a few extra with your first order. Or, add one Reusable pack with your first purchase so you can try both to see which you like better.
Q: How long do the disposable heat packs last?
A: The manufacturer, HOT HANDS, specifies that you should reasonably expect them to last for up to 18 hours. We have found that the low humidity in dry climates may shorten the longevity by a couple hours. You can also divide the 18 hours into several short term uses by resealing the pack into the airtight ziplock bag, which we include with every Bitten.
Q: How long does the reusable heat pack last?
A: The reusable heat packs quickly heat up to around 130 degrees when you activate the pack by clicking the internal metal disc. They stay at that temperature for about 30 minutes. Two can be used in your BITTEN to generate more heat on extra cold days.
Q: Can the bit get too hot for my horse's mouth?
A: No. Both heat packs warm up to around 130 degrees. This is a worry free temperature that feels warm to the touch, but is not harmful.
Q: Can I use any type of heat pack in the Bitten?
A: Well, you're welcome to try, but let us explain, maybe - why not. We spent over a year experimenting with every available size & type of heat pack available to us locally here in Boulder, CO and from a variety of vendors on the Internet. Based on what the Bitten is designed to do & the size required to fit perfectly in the Bitten, we narrowed the choices to those we offer here on our website. All things considered, we believe these are the best heat pack options available for the Bitten.
Q: You mention using my Bitten as a hand or body warmer -
- do I need the Hot Hands-2, too?
A: Great question! You can use the Bitten as suggested, either wrapped inside-out as a hand warmer, or, on the lanyard, as a body warmer when tucked down inside your jacket. Additionally, you can remove the Disposable heat packs from the Bitten and put them in your jacket pockets and they'll continue to generate heat to help keep your hands warm on the ride - if you can keep your hands in your pockets - not always an option with your hands on the reins.
However, the Disposable heat packs designed for the Bitten can be too big & bulky to fit inside your gloves. The Hot Hands-2 are smaller and fit comfortably inside your gloves or mittens if you have smaller hands. So your hands stay warm even if you can't keep them in your pockets. And, it's convenient to have a few hand warmers around the house for other members of the family to use for chores and other winter activities.
Q: Can I use the HH-2's in my Bitten?
A: It's possible, but we wouldn't recommend it. The Hot Hands-2 Personal Warmer heat packs are made available as a customer service for convenient hand warming for a variety of cold weather activities. Although they have the same characteristics of the larger Bitten Disposable heat packs, their small size won't generate enough heat to be effective as a bit warmer.
Q: How do I get more heat packs when there are no computers around?
A: The "Hot Hands" heat packs are sold at most sporting goods stores and general stores that have a sporting goods section. They may cost you a bit more than buying from us, but they'll work fine in a pinch.
Q: Do the heat packs contain any toxic ingredients?
A: No. The Reusable packs contain food grade sodium acetate and the Disposable packs contain iron powder, water, salt, activated carbon, and vermiculite.
We Welcome Your Inquiry
You can send email using your own email program to: BittenStore@msn.com, or you're welcome to use our internal e-mail window below. Just enter your email address & your question or comment in the spaces provided. Rest assured we'll respond personally by the next business day. Thanks!
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