Several states are considering thumbing their respective noses at the Feds.
The Tenth Amendment Movement to Restore State Sovereignty Over Powers Not Granted to the Federal Government
The powers not delegated to the United States by the Constitution, nor prohibited by it to the States, are reserved to the States respectively, or to the people.
I wonder how far this will go. Is it just wishful thinking or is there a movement to revert back to the original federalism that was effectively destroyed by the results of the civil war. Maybe it will take another one to get back to the USA.
Saturday, February 28, 2009
Nation of Women
I've observed over the years that women tend to be ruled by emotion much more than men. Their natural instinct is to look to their men for protection and security. They have an inborn need to be taken care of.
The last national election was, in general, won by those promising to take take care of us.
I conclude we've become a nation of women.
And that may very well be the beginning of the end.
The last national election was, in general, won by those promising to take take care of us.
I conclude we've become a nation of women.
And that may very well be the beginning of the end.
Beware of Old Men
You can try to legislate my guns away, but I'll do my best to kill you for trying.
You can take the ones you find away when I'm not home, and I'll still have guns you don't know about and I will do my best to kill you for what you did.
You can have a stroke of luck and get all of them and I'll still endeavor to kill you. Dead scumbag ain't no different than a coyote on the wire to warn the others off.
Wanna play a game?
You toss that gauntlet, you shall reap what you sow.
I used to think, in this country, the land of the free, that it would never happen. We The People have too much to lose, to much to risk as individuals. Now I'm not so sure. My children are grown, living on their own. There's just the Boss and me. If it should happen, when it happens, my partner in life feels as I do. She'd stand at my side, loading magazines, or shooting some skum herself. She'd be disappointed if I didn't stand for what is just and right, to the end, and so would I.
As a population we're getting old. We've lived most of our life. Having it cut short for the idea of liberty isn't a bad way to go. It beats the hell out of fading slowly away.
I once heard that you need to be careful messing with old men. They're too old to give a damn. They'll just kill you.
I'd bet there are many that feel the same way.
You can take the ones you find away when I'm not home, and I'll still have guns you don't know about and I will do my best to kill you for what you did.
You can have a stroke of luck and get all of them and I'll still endeavor to kill you. Dead scumbag ain't no different than a coyote on the wire to warn the others off.
Wanna play a game?
You toss that gauntlet, you shall reap what you sow.
I used to think, in this country, the land of the free, that it would never happen. We The People have too much to lose, to much to risk as individuals. Now I'm not so sure. My children are grown, living on their own. There's just the Boss and me. If it should happen, when it happens, my partner in life feels as I do. She'd stand at my side, loading magazines, or shooting some skum herself. She'd be disappointed if I didn't stand for what is just and right, to the end, and so would I.
As a population we're getting old. We've lived most of our life. Having it cut short for the idea of liberty isn't a bad way to go. It beats the hell out of fading slowly away.
I once heard that you need to be careful messing with old men. They're too old to give a damn. They'll just kill you.
I'd bet there are many that feel the same way.
Friday, February 27, 2009
Bulldog 44
Since I have a reconditioned Super Blackhawk .44Mag, and the gear to load ammo, I've been considering getting a Charter Arms Bulldog in .44 Special. There aren't many revolvers that come close to fitting my small hands. The Bulldog and the Ruger SP101 are about the only 2.
Anybody have experience with them?
Update - -
I just found this evaluation of the model I had in mind.
With more here and here.
Anybody have experience with them?
Update - -
I just found this evaluation of the model I had in mind.
With more here and here.
Glenn Beck
I saw Glenn Beck for the very first time today. He's on FOX news channel locally, but aired at 5PM. I'm never home in time to watch him, and wouldn't have today if it weasn't for nursing the Boss. I like his show.
Drugs Good
The Boss had her hand surgery this morning at 7:30. We were back home by10:00.
They gave her a general and nerve block. She snoozed most of the day, but is awake now, though the nerve block hasn't entirely worn off as yet. A few times today she hit herself in the nose when trying to move her arm. A little funny.
We have a bottle of extra-strength vicodin to be taken every 4 hours. It's going to get interesting when all the surgical drugs finally wear off.
They gave her a general and nerve block. She snoozed most of the day, but is awake now, though the nerve block hasn't entirely worn off as yet. A few times today she hit herself in the nose when trying to move her arm. A little funny.
We have a bottle of extra-strength vicodin to be taken every 4 hours. It's going to get interesting when all the surgical drugs finally wear off.
Beatings
One of the engineers reporting to me has an interesting magnet on his metal bookshelf.
The beatings will continue
Until the attitude improves
Seems very appropriate to me. Our Fed government is doing the beating.
So when will the attitude improve?
The beatings will continue
Until the attitude improves
Seems very appropriate to me. Our Fed government is doing the beating.
So when will the attitude improve?
The Ultimate Sacrifice
This story was e-mailed to me.
I just wanted to get the day over with and go down to Smokey's. Sneaking a look at my watch, I saw the time, 1655. Five minutes to go before the cemetery gates are closed for the day. Full dress was hot in the August sun. Oklahoma summertime was as bad as ever--the heat and humidity at the same level--both too high.
I saw the car pull into the drive, '69 or '70 model Cadillac Deville, looked factory-new. It pulled into the parking lot at a snail's pace. An old woman got out so slow I thought she was paralyzed; she had a cane and a sheaf of flowers--about four or five bunches as best I could tell.
I couldn't help myself. The thought came unwanted, and left a slightly bitter taste: 'She's going to spend an hour, and for this old soldier, my hip hurts like hell and I'm ready to get out of here right now!' But for this day, my duty was to assist anyone coming in.
Kevin would lock the 'In' gate and if I could hurry the old biddy along, we might make it to Smokie's in time.
I broke post attention. My hip made gritty noises when I took the first step and the pain went up a notch. I must have made a real military sight: middle-aged man with a small pot gut and half a limp,(I can relate) in marine full-dress uniform, which had lost its razor crease about thirty minutes after I began the watch at the cemetery.
I stopped in front of her, halfway up the walk. She looked up at me with an old woman's squint.
'Ma'am, may I assist you in any way?'
She took long enough to answer.
'Yes, son. Can you carry these flowers? I seem to be moving a tad slow these days.'
'My pleasure, ma'am.' Well, it wasn't too much of a lie.
She looked again. ' Marine, where were you stationed?'
Vietnam, ma'am. Ground-pounder. '69 to '71.'
She looked at me closer. 'Wounded in action, I see. Well done, Marine. I'll be as quick as I can.'
I lied a little bigger: 'No hurry, ma'am.'
She smiled and winked at me. 'Son, I'm 85-years-old and I can tell a lie from a long way off. Let's get this done. Might be the last time I can do this. My name's Joanne Wieserman , and I've a few Marines I'd like to see one more time.'
'Yes, ma 'am. At your service.'
She headed for the World War I section, stopping at a stone. She picked one of the flowers out of my arm and laid it on top of the stone. She murmured something I couldn't quite make out. The name on the marble was Donald S. Davidson, USMC: France 1918.
She turned away and made a straight line for the World War II section, stopping at one stone. I saw a tear slowly tracking its way down her cheek.. She put a bunch on a stone; the name was Stephen X..Davidson, USMC, 1943.
She went up the row a ways and laid another bunch on a stone, Stanley J. Wieserman, USMC, 1944.
She paused for a second. 'Two more, son, and we'll be done'
I almost didn't say anything, but, 'Yes, ma'am. Take your tim e.'
She looked confused. 'Where's the Vietnam section, son? I seem to have lost my way.'
I pointed with my chin. 'That way, ma'am.'
'Oh!' she chuckled quietly. 'Son, me and old age ain't too friendly..'
She headed down the walk I'd pointed at. She stopped at a couple of stones before she found the ones she wanted. She placed a bunch on Larry Wieserman , USMC, 1968, and the last on Darrel Wieserman, USMC, 1970. She stood there and murmured a few words I still couldn't make out.
'OK, son, I'm finished. Get me back to my car and you can go home.'
Yes, ma'am. If I may ask, were those your kinfolk?'
She paused. 'Yes, Donald Davidson was my father, Stephen was my uncle, Stanley was my husband, Larry and Darrel were our sons. All killed in action, all marines.'
She stopped. Whether she had finished, or couldn't finish, I don't know. She made her way to her car, slowly and painfully.
I waited for a polite distance to come between us and then double-timed it over t o Kevin , waiting by the car.
'Get to the 'Out' gate quick. I have something I've got to do.'
Kevin started to say something, but saw the look I gave him. He broke the rules to get us there down the service road. We beat her. She hadn't made it around the rotunda yet..
' Kevin, stand at attention next to the gatepost. Follow my lead.' I humped it across the drive to the other post.
When the Cadillac came puttering around from the hedges and began the short straight traverse to the gate, I called in my best gunny's voice:
'Ten-Hut! Present Harms!'
I have to hand it to Kevin ; he never blinked an eye--full dress attention and a salute that would make his DI proud.
She drove through that gate with two old worn-out Jar Heads giving her a send-off she deserved, for service rendered to her country, and for knowing duty, honor and sacrifice.
I am not sure, but I think I saw a salute returned from that Cadillac .
Let's all keep those currently serving and those who have gone before in our thoughts. They are the reason for the many freedoms we enjoy.
Sorry about your monitor; it made mine blurry too!
I just wanted to get the day over with and go down to Smokey's. Sneaking a look at my watch, I saw the time, 1655. Five minutes to go before the cemetery gates are closed for the day. Full dress was hot in the August sun. Oklahoma summertime was as bad as ever--the heat and humidity at the same level--both too high.
I saw the car pull into the drive, '69 or '70 model Cadillac Deville, looked factory-new. It pulled into the parking lot at a snail's pace. An old woman got out so slow I thought she was paralyzed; she had a cane and a sheaf of flowers--about four or five bunches as best I could tell.
I couldn't help myself. The thought came unwanted, and left a slightly bitter taste: 'She's going to spend an hour, and for this old soldier, my hip hurts like hell and I'm ready to get out of here right now!' But for this day, my duty was to assist anyone coming in.
Kevin would lock the 'In' gate and if I could hurry the old biddy along, we might make it to Smokie's in time.
I broke post attention. My hip made gritty noises when I took the first step and the pain went up a notch. I must have made a real military sight: middle-aged man with a small pot gut and half a limp,(I can relate) in marine full-dress uniform, which had lost its razor crease about thirty minutes after I began the watch at the cemetery.
I stopped in front of her, halfway up the walk. She looked up at me with an old woman's squint.
'Ma'am, may I assist you in any way?'
She took long enough to answer.
'Yes, son. Can you carry these flowers? I seem to be moving a tad slow these days.'
'My pleasure, ma'am.' Well, it wasn't too much of a lie.
She looked again. ' Marine, where were you stationed?'
Vietnam, ma'am. Ground-pounder. '69 to '71.'
She looked at me closer. 'Wounded in action, I see. Well done, Marine. I'll be as quick as I can.'
I lied a little bigger: 'No hurry, ma'am.'
She smiled and winked at me. 'Son, I'm 85-years-old and I can tell a lie from a long way off. Let's get this done. Might be the last time I can do this. My name's Joanne Wieserman , and I've a few Marines I'd like to see one more time.'
'Yes, ma 'am. At your service.'
She headed for the World War I section, stopping at a stone. She picked one of the flowers out of my arm and laid it on top of the stone. She murmured something I couldn't quite make out. The name on the marble was Donald S. Davidson, USMC: France 1918.
She turned away and made a straight line for the World War II section, stopping at one stone. I saw a tear slowly tracking its way down her cheek.. She put a bunch on a stone; the name was Stephen X..Davidson, USMC, 1943.
She went up the row a ways and laid another bunch on a stone, Stanley J. Wieserman, USMC, 1944.
She paused for a second. 'Two more, son, and we'll be done'
I almost didn't say anything, but, 'Yes, ma'am. Take your tim e.'
She looked confused. 'Where's the Vietnam section, son? I seem to have lost my way.'
I pointed with my chin. 'That way, ma'am.'
'Oh!' she chuckled quietly. 'Son, me and old age ain't too friendly..'
She headed down the walk I'd pointed at. She stopped at a couple of stones before she found the ones she wanted. She placed a bunch on Larry Wieserman , USMC, 1968, and the last on Darrel Wieserman, USMC, 1970. She stood there and murmured a few words I still couldn't make out.
'OK, son, I'm finished. Get me back to my car and you can go home.'
Yes, ma'am. If I may ask, were those your kinfolk?'
She paused. 'Yes, Donald Davidson was my father, Stephen was my uncle, Stanley was my husband, Larry and Darrel were our sons. All killed in action, all marines.'
She stopped. Whether she had finished, or couldn't finish, I don't know. She made her way to her car, slowly and painfully.
I waited for a polite distance to come between us and then double-timed it over t o Kevin , waiting by the car.
'Get to the 'Out' gate quick. I have something I've got to do.'
Kevin started to say something, but saw the look I gave him. He broke the rules to get us there down the service road. We beat her. She hadn't made it around the rotunda yet..
' Kevin, stand at attention next to the gatepost. Follow my lead.' I humped it across the drive to the other post.
When the Cadillac came puttering around from the hedges and began the short straight traverse to the gate, I called in my best gunny's voice:
'Ten-Hut! Present Harms!'
I have to hand it to Kevin ; he never blinked an eye--full dress attention and a salute that would make his DI proud.
She drove through that gate with two old worn-out Jar Heads giving her a send-off she deserved, for service rendered to her country, and for knowing duty, honor and sacrifice.
I am not sure, but I think I saw a salute returned from that Cadillac .
Let's all keep those currently serving and those who have gone before in our thoughts. They are the reason for the many freedoms we enjoy.
Sorry about your monitor; it made mine blurry too!
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
Surgery
Sometime Friday morning I'll be transporting the Boss to the hospital for outpatient surgery. A few years ago she had the same thing done on her left hand. Total healing takes about a year.
There's a fancy name for it, that I can't remember. Where the thumb bone connects to the wrist, the surgeon is removing the bone from the wrist and the end of the thumb bone. Then a tendon is stretched and rerouted to fasten to the loose end of bone. This is being done because bone is rubbing bone causing constant pain.
So I'll be spending a 4 day weekend being a nurse.
As I said the other hand was done a few years ago, and she's also had a tumorous uterus removed. None of these surgeries is or has been life threatening, but they have made life miserable. Do you think any of this would've happened under a government run health care system? Not a chance.
There's a fancy name for it, that I can't remember. Where the thumb bone connects to the wrist, the surgeon is removing the bone from the wrist and the end of the thumb bone. Then a tendon is stretched and rerouted to fasten to the loose end of bone. This is being done because bone is rubbing bone causing constant pain.
So I'll be spending a 4 day weekend being a nurse.
As I said the other hand was done a few years ago, and she's also had a tumorous uterus removed. None of these surgeries is or has been life threatening, but they have made life miserable. Do you think any of this would've happened under a government run health care system? Not a chance.
Extreme Bad Behavior
Democratically controlled House passed another $410 billion in spending on top of the $787 billion stimulus bill that President Barack Obama signed last week.
Congress has passed $1197 billion in new spending in the last few sessions. When you add the $700 billion in TARP money for bank bailouts, the total is $1897 billion in new spending.
The same people who drove the economy into the ditch are now complaining about the size of the tow truck," said Rep. James McGovern, D-Mass., pointing out the large increase in deficits that President George W. Bush and GOP-controlled Congresses amassed.
Found here.
One of the things I hate the most is someone trying to excuse bad behavior by other bad behavior. When one of my kids tried that he immediately got more extreme punishment than normal. When politicians try that, my immediate reaction is to reach for the paddle.
Congress has passed $1197 billion in new spending in the last few sessions. When you add the $700 billion in TARP money for bank bailouts, the total is $1897 billion in new spending.
The same people who drove the economy into the ditch are now complaining about the size of the tow truck," said Rep. James McGovern, D-Mass., pointing out the large increase in deficits that President George W. Bush and GOP-controlled Congresses amassed.
Found here.
One of the things I hate the most is someone trying to excuse bad behavior by other bad behavior. When one of my kids tried that he immediately got more extreme punishment than normal. When politicians try that, my immediate reaction is to reach for the paddle.
Destroying a Nations Wealth
You cannot legislate the poor into freedom by legislating the wealthy out of freedom. What one person receives without working for, another person must work for without receiving. The government cannot give to anybody anything that the government does not first take from somebody else. When half of the people get the idea that they do not have to work because the other half is going to take care of them, and when the other half gets the idea that it does no good to work because somebody else is going to get what they work for, that my dear friend, is about the end of any nation.
You cannot multiply wealth by dividing it.
Dr. Adrian Rogers , 1931 to 2005
Found here.
What he's talking about is socialism/communism, that big gaping hole into which we've started falling. Just a little farther and we'll never return, but be doomed to ruin like other countries before. But maybe I'm wrong. If I'm wrong then we'll certainly fall to the stone age teachings of Islam. Well, actually, it'll be both.
You cannot multiply wealth by dividing it.
Dr. Adrian Rogers , 1931 to 2005
Found here.
What he's talking about is socialism/communism, that big gaping hole into which we've started falling. Just a little farther and we'll never return, but be doomed to ruin like other countries before. But maybe I'm wrong. If I'm wrong then we'll certainly fall to the stone age teachings of Islam. Well, actually, it'll be both.
Monday, February 23, 2009
RIP
I finally got around to visiting the dictionary regards republican, libertarian and anarchist. I'm definitely not an anarchist because I believe that some government is a necessity, but it should be very small. I guess I'm a republican/libertarian. I believe in states rights with a weak federal government that does nothing more than help with public works and defend the country. If we still had that, we'd certainly be enjoying the liberty that was intended more then 200 years ago.
As it is, the evil party is certainly changing things. They're killing the country.
As it is, the evil party is certainly changing things. They're killing the country.
Just Another
Have you noticed that about every time our new president speaks publically or signs a bill the stock market drops? How can that possibly be happening? Isn't he the new messiah leading the greatest political party on the earth?
New York stocks tumbled Monday with the Dow Jones index ending at its lowest level in 11 years and nine months on increased pessimism about the future of the U.S. economy.
This will give them a 40% ownership if Citibank. President Obama has tried to halt talk of a government takeover of Citibank and Bank of America.
Maybe the love affair over the slick combination of evangelist and used car salesman is coming to an end as reality rears its ugly head. HE'S JUST ANOTHER POLITICIAN!!! And a socialist, wannabe communist to boot.
New York stocks tumbled Monday with the Dow Jones index ending at its lowest level in 11 years and nine months on increased pessimism about the future of the U.S. economy.
This will give them a 40% ownership if Citibank. President Obama has tried to halt talk of a government takeover of Citibank and Bank of America.
Maybe the love affair over the slick combination of evangelist and used car salesman is coming to an end as reality rears its ugly head. HE'S JUST ANOTHER POLITICIAN!!! And a socialist, wannabe communist to boot.
Sunday, February 22, 2009
Mixed Feelings
It took a while (our legal system couldn't outrun a turtle) but it's apparently 'legal' to keep your weapon locked in your car regardless of what the employer has to say.
I had and still have mixed feelings about this issue. If I own property and decide that I don't want firearms on it, then that should be my choice to make. If that's unacceptable to those that carry, then they can stay off my property. On the other hand, a property owner making that decision, is just stupid. And as one licensed to carry, I'm always offended by such nonsense, especially since I reserve the right to self-defense. Oh, and let's not forget that pesky 2A.
I had and still have mixed feelings about this issue. If I own property and decide that I don't want firearms on it, then that should be my choice to make. If that's unacceptable to those that carry, then they can stay off my property. On the other hand, a property owner making that decision, is just stupid. And as one licensed to carry, I'm always offended by such nonsense, especially since I reserve the right to self-defense. Oh, and let's not forget that pesky 2A.
Saturday, February 21, 2009
Guns in Church
Went with the Boss tonight for a couples night out, . . . . at the church she attends. For $10 we had dinner there and a movie. It was kinda nice there with only married couples.
Before you ask, I was carrying my personal defense weapon the entire evening. In a church? You betcha. Churches are not immune from the mutants in the world. It's not illegal here unless the leaders object, which he wouldn't. We went shooting together a couple years back. Naturally it wouldn't matter much to me either way. I always carry, except at work. A guy does have to make a living.
Before you ask, I was carrying my personal defense weapon the entire evening. In a church? You betcha. Churches are not immune from the mutants in the world. It's not illegal here unless the leaders object, which he wouldn't. We went shooting together a couple years back. Naturally it wouldn't matter much to me either way. I always carry, except at work. A guy does have to make a living.
Feelin Good
The eldest has now run 200 rounds through his new Steyr without a hick-up. He said it's the most comfortable and natural pointing handgun he's ever fired. Unfortunately I wasn't there with him so I can't give you my opinion. He was with his brother-in-law Friday afternoon when most of us 'normal' people are working.
The other guy was shooting a Glock that's supposed to be fine tuned for match shooting. It was the maiden voyage for that shootin iron as well. The other guy was all over the target at an estimated 10 yards. My son accepted his offer to try the Glock and proceeded to shoot a 4" hole in the paper, and he doesn't really like the feel of Glocks. He outshot his brother-in-law with his own gun. I love it when that happens.
The other guy was shooting a Glock that's supposed to be fine tuned for match shooting. It was the maiden voyage for that shootin iron as well. The other guy was all over the target at an estimated 10 yards. My son accepted his offer to try the Glock and proceeded to shoot a 4" hole in the paper, and he doesn't really like the feel of Glocks. He outshot his brother-in-law with his own gun. I love it when that happens.
Countrymen's Stupidity
via e-mail comes this.
Kit Lange is a lady (Former Air Force) who has worked tirelessly on the Hutchins case.
My Predictions for the New Obama "Presidency" Now that America has shown us all that affirmative action even works in politics, I've compiled a list of things that you can probably expect to happen. These predictions are 80% gleaned from information all of us have access to, and 15% gut instinct based on many years of research, historical study, and being glued to current affairs. The other 5% is just anger at my countrymen's stupidity -- I admit it.
- Websites and mass emails offering "free grants," courtesy of the government and "Obama's wealth redistribution." Actually, this one's a freebie, because I have an email with a date and timestamp of literally minutes after Obama was declared the winner, offering exactly that.
- Israel will understand this election was the end of any type of assistance, military or otherwise, from the U.S., and will stop holding back their defense at the request of the American administration. Look for a first strike on Iran soon, as well as increased activity by the Israeli military in general. Israel is on her own now, and God help us all because of it.
- Look for Iranian retaliation -- against American targets. That goes doubly for other terrorist organizations. We just elected a man with the full endorsement of every major terrorist group in the world as leader of the free world. It's the political equivalent of hiring a child molester to babysit your kids while you leave for the weekend. Not only is HE going to have fun with your child, but he'll probably sit and watch while his friends come over and do it too.
- Look for far-left justices appointed to the Supreme Court, effectively tying up the entire government in a trifecta of liberal humanism, the buzzwords of which remain empty platitudes like "hope and change," and the ultimate goal of which is socialism -- and soon, sharia law.
- Military cases of troops being tried and convicted for killing the enemy in combat will continue to rise -- and the conviction/plea-bargain rate will stay at nearly 100%, as the government seeks s to use the best men and women this country has to offer as sacrificial lambs on the altar of global appeasement. Those brave and honorable men who currently reside in prison cells across the country, stripped of their rank, their careers, families, and their good name, will not taste free air again for many years. Their sacrifices and their stories will be forgotten by the general public, remembered only by those of us who continue to fight for them.
- Look for the slow but steady erosion of rights you have enjoyed for your entire lives -- all the while being told it's "for your own good." Restrictions on gun ownership, home schooling, encouraged dependence on the ever-growing federal government. More nanny-state provisions will be put into place t o protect the "disadvantaged" and the "poor,” (read: lazy, uneducated, unwilling to better themselves) even while groups like the unborn, the mentally handicapped, elderly, and terminally ill are slowly pushed toward euthanasia. Of course, this will be done with feel-good phrases like "death with dignity," "not wanting to be a burden,” and "merciful release from suffering," all of which ignore the basic fact that we are killing people without their consent for the "good of the people." Before you tell me I'm crazy, let's just remember that Barack Obama was the ONLY senator in the Illinois state senate to vote against providing medical care for babies who were inconsiderate enough to survive an abortion. Also, look for taxes to go up. Yes, they'll go up.
- You think the economy is bad now? Just wait. You'll have the most expensive "free" health care ever. Bread lines aren't just for Russians anymore.
We have traded experience for color, freedom for slavery -- and the irony is that the average American sheep thinks their vote somehow righted an ancient wrong, some how ENDED the specter of slavery and ushered in some beautiful era of liberty. In reality, we are about to be less free than you ever thought possible.
I watched the faces of those crowded into the mob (excuse the pun) in Chicago. They stared at Obama like he was a god, an idol, a panacea to their every want and need. We have truly failed as a nation if we are at the point where we feel we must look to one man to take care of us all, to be our father figure and our sugar daddy. We have lost not only the "can-do" attitude of past generations, but the "MUST- do" attitude of our forefathers. We have allowed ourselves to become reduced from Patrick Henry's proud cry of "liberty or death" to the sniveling, whining idea that we are owed something. We have gone from being the honorable defenders of freedom, to being told we are the problem.
The eyes of Obama and McCain were also telling. McCain acted with class and grace in his concession speech, offering the most honorable response I've seen yet. I don't agree with all of McCain's positions, but it cannot be denied that the man has served his nation -- at permanent and severe detriment to himself -- for half a century. His eyes were clear and sincere, honest. His speech underlined the very reasons why, of the two men offered, he was hands down the best choice.
On the other hand, Obama's eyes were cold, calculating. His manner was smug and still carried the arrogance he has always had. His facial expression was one of barely disguised disdain for everything people like me believe in. His body language was smooth, polished -- too much so. He talked of patriotism as though it is a value he is familiar with -- and yet, his horrifying attitude toward the country he now leads is as well-documented as his friendships with those who seek its demise. He is charismatic to those who don't know what to look for, and he is inspiring to those who cannot or will not think for themselves. However, too many who voted for him are guilty of the most dangerous kind of hypocrisy. You see, we are told daily that we must not see color, just mankind. (We are all family, you know -- or so we're told.) And yet Barack Obama was handed the White House on a silver platter by a fawning media, a bevy of foreign donors (who, to this day and in violation of U.S. election laws, remain nameless and unaccounted for), and a populace who voted based on color instead of right and wrong -- even in the face of the most damning evidence against a Presidential candidate in many years, perhaps ever.
It is said that the people receive the government they deserve. Sadly, I fear that's correct. We have become complacent, unwilling to see the writing on the wall, content to frolic in the warm water without bothering to notice that it's been getting hotter by the minute. We are two seconds from a rolling boil -- and perhaps it is already too late.
So, liberals, enjoy your victory. Jump around. Have a party, file for your free grants. Scream "Gimme my handout!" and make fun of those of us who fough t to make sure your "messiah" didn't get access to the most powerful position in the world. Just remember when it all comes crashing down: You own the White House, the Congress, and soon the Supreme Court. You have no one to blame but yourselves for the mess you just created.
As for me, I'm buying my handguns this week so I have an answer for those who will come try to take them.
Kit
"We cannot expect the Americans to jump from capitalism to Communism, but we can assist their elected leaders in giving Americans small doses of socialism until they suddenly awake to find they have Communism." - Soviet Leader Nikita Khrushchev, 1959
Kit Lange is a lady (Former Air Force) who has worked tirelessly on the Hutchins case.
My Predictions for the New Obama "Presidency" Now that America has shown us all that affirmative action even works in politics, I've compiled a list of things that you can probably expect to happen. These predictions are 80% gleaned from information all of us have access to, and 15% gut instinct based on many years of research, historical study, and being glued to current affairs. The other 5% is just anger at my countrymen's stupidity -- I admit it.
- Websites and mass emails offering "free grants," courtesy of the government and "Obama's wealth redistribution." Actually, this one's a freebie, because I have an email with a date and timestamp of literally minutes after Obama was declared the winner, offering exactly that.
- Israel will understand this election was the end of any type of assistance, military or otherwise, from the U.S., and will stop holding back their defense at the request of the American administration. Look for a first strike on Iran soon, as well as increased activity by the Israeli military in general. Israel is on her own now, and God help us all because of it.
- Look for Iranian retaliation -- against American targets. That goes doubly for other terrorist organizations. We just elected a man with the full endorsement of every major terrorist group in the world as leader of the free world. It's the political equivalent of hiring a child molester to babysit your kids while you leave for the weekend. Not only is HE going to have fun with your child, but he'll probably sit and watch while his friends come over and do it too.
- Look for far-left justices appointed to the Supreme Court, effectively tying up the entire government in a trifecta of liberal humanism, the buzzwords of which remain empty platitudes like "hope and change," and the ultimate goal of which is socialism -- and soon, sharia law.
- Military cases of troops being tried and convicted for killing the enemy in combat will continue to rise -- and the conviction/plea-bargain rate will stay at nearly 100%, as the government seeks s to use the best men and women this country has to offer as sacrificial lambs on the altar of global appeasement. Those brave and honorable men who currently reside in prison cells across the country, stripped of their rank, their careers, families, and their good name, will not taste free air again for many years. Their sacrifices and their stories will be forgotten by the general public, remembered only by those of us who continue to fight for them.
- Look for the slow but steady erosion of rights you have enjoyed for your entire lives -- all the while being told it's "for your own good." Restrictions on gun ownership, home schooling, encouraged dependence on the ever-growing federal government. More nanny-state provisions will be put into place t o protect the "disadvantaged" and the "poor,” (read: lazy, uneducated, unwilling to better themselves) even while groups like the unborn, the mentally handicapped, elderly, and terminally ill are slowly pushed toward euthanasia. Of course, this will be done with feel-good phrases like "death with dignity," "not wanting to be a burden,” and "merciful release from suffering," all of which ignore the basic fact that we are killing people without their consent for the "good of the people." Before you tell me I'm crazy, let's just remember that Barack Obama was the ONLY senator in the Illinois state senate to vote against providing medical care for babies who were inconsiderate enough to survive an abortion. Also, look for taxes to go up. Yes, they'll go up.
- You think the economy is bad now? Just wait. You'll have the most expensive "free" health care ever. Bread lines aren't just for Russians anymore.
We have traded experience for color, freedom for slavery -- and the irony is that the average American sheep thinks their vote somehow righted an ancient wrong, some how ENDED the specter of slavery and ushered in some beautiful era of liberty. In reality, we are about to be less free than you ever thought possible.
I watched the faces of those crowded into the mob (excuse the pun) in Chicago. They stared at Obama like he was a god, an idol, a panacea to their every want and need. We have truly failed as a nation if we are at the point where we feel we must look to one man to take care of us all, to be our father figure and our sugar daddy. We have lost not only the "can-do" attitude of past generations, but the "MUST- do" attitude of our forefathers. We have allowed ourselves to become reduced from Patrick Henry's proud cry of "liberty or death" to the sniveling, whining idea that we are owed something. We have gone from being the honorable defenders of freedom, to being told we are the problem.
The eyes of Obama and McCain were also telling. McCain acted with class and grace in his concession speech, offering the most honorable response I've seen yet. I don't agree with all of McCain's positions, but it cannot be denied that the man has served his nation -- at permanent and severe detriment to himself -- for half a century. His eyes were clear and sincere, honest. His speech underlined the very reasons why, of the two men offered, he was hands down the best choice.
On the other hand, Obama's eyes were cold, calculating. His manner was smug and still carried the arrogance he has always had. His facial expression was one of barely disguised disdain for everything people like me believe in. His body language was smooth, polished -- too much so. He talked of patriotism as though it is a value he is familiar with -- and yet, his horrifying attitude toward the country he now leads is as well-documented as his friendships with those who seek its demise. He is charismatic to those who don't know what to look for, and he is inspiring to those who cannot or will not think for themselves. However, too many who voted for him are guilty of the most dangerous kind of hypocrisy. You see, we are told daily that we must not see color, just mankind. (We are all family, you know -- or so we're told.) And yet Barack Obama was handed the White House on a silver platter by a fawning media, a bevy of foreign donors (who, to this day and in violation of U.S. election laws, remain nameless and unaccounted for), and a populace who voted based on color instead of right and wrong -- even in the face of the most damning evidence against a Presidential candidate in many years, perhaps ever.
It is said that the people receive the government they deserve. Sadly, I fear that's correct. We have become complacent, unwilling to see the writing on the wall, content to frolic in the warm water without bothering to notice that it's been getting hotter by the minute. We are two seconds from a rolling boil -- and perhaps it is already too late.
So, liberals, enjoy your victory. Jump around. Have a party, file for your free grants. Scream "Gimme my handout!" and make fun of those of us who fough t to make sure your "messiah" didn't get access to the most powerful position in the world. Just remember when it all comes crashing down: You own the White House, the Congress, and soon the Supreme Court. You have no one to blame but yourselves for the mess you just created.
As for me, I'm buying my handguns this week so I have an answer for those who will come try to take them.
Kit
"We cannot expect the Americans to jump from capitalism to Communism, but we can assist their elected leaders in giving Americans small doses of socialism until they suddenly awake to find they have Communism." - Soviet Leader Nikita Khrushchev, 1959
April Fool
Most workers are to see about a $13 per week increase in their take-home pay.
According to a lady I know who works for a CPA, it's more like $7.50 per week.
The notoriously slow Congress passed the $787 billion economic stimulus package in a matter of weeks.
And that in itself should scare the hell out of all of us.
So, just how soon will Americans start reaping the benefits of tax cuts in it?
By April 1, according to the president.
APRIL FOOOL
According to a lady I know who works for a CPA, it's more like $7.50 per week.
The notoriously slow Congress passed the $787 billion economic stimulus package in a matter of weeks.
And that in itself should scare the hell out of all of us.
So, just how soon will Americans start reaping the benefits of tax cuts in it?
By April 1, according to the president.
APRIL FOOOL
Friday, February 20, 2009
The Beginning?
Could it be that somebody is actually training for illegal search & siesure, the confiscation of arms? Is this just the tip of the iceburg?
In addition to surveillance, searching and apprehension, the exercise will also give the troops valuable experience in stability, support, patrol, traffic control, vehicle searches and other skills needed for deployment in an urban environment.
In addition to surveillance, searching and apprehension, the exercise will also give the troops valuable experience in stability, support, patrol, traffic control, vehicle searches and other skills needed for deployment in an urban environment.
New Toys Coming
For a while now I've been thinking about adding a smaller/lighter carry gun to the collection. My main carry pistol is a Kimber UltraCarry, and most of the time it's just fine since I have a couple of those leather-plastic-leather belts. But there are times when a smaller gun is more appropriate. I have a Walther PPK (32acp) and Llama MicroMax (380) for those occasions. They're both a little smaller, lesser caliber and of all steel construction. I like them both, but today there are better choices.
I've been considering the Kahr CW9 for a while as an alternative. It's significantly lighter than my Kimber, but dimensionally there isn't much difference. It's one of the very few striker fired pistols that fits my small hand well enough to shoot accurately one handed. Being a little lighter isn't enough to justify buying it. Why carry a 9mm when I can carry a 45?
In order to get smaller and lighter I settled on the Kahr PM9. Now that gun is smaller and also lighter, but unfortunately more expensive. It's actually about the size of my lesser caliber guns, and less weight to boot. Today I asked the FFL guy to get one for me.
Then I got to thinking about a backup or last ditch gun. One that could be tucked away in a pocket or ankle holster. There's some tiny little 380 pistols made for just that purpose. Ruger, Keltec, Kahr and even Magnum Research makes them, though the Ruger is extremely hard to get. I settled on the Keltec P-3AT 380. It's crude and the cheapest of the bunch, but has been around for a long time. There's something to be said for that. The FFL guy is going to get me one of those also.
I've been considering the Kahr CW9 for a while as an alternative. It's significantly lighter than my Kimber, but dimensionally there isn't much difference. It's one of the very few striker fired pistols that fits my small hand well enough to shoot accurately one handed. Being a little lighter isn't enough to justify buying it. Why carry a 9mm when I can carry a 45?
In order to get smaller and lighter I settled on the Kahr PM9. Now that gun is smaller and also lighter, but unfortunately more expensive. It's actually about the size of my lesser caliber guns, and less weight to boot. Today I asked the FFL guy to get one for me.
Then I got to thinking about a backup or last ditch gun. One that could be tucked away in a pocket or ankle holster. There's some tiny little 380 pistols made for just that purpose. Ruger, Keltec, Kahr and even Magnum Research makes them, though the Ruger is extremely hard to get. I settled on the Keltec P-3AT 380. It's crude and the cheapest of the bunch, but has been around for a long time. There's something to be said for that. The FFL guy is going to get me one of those also.
Thursday, February 19, 2009
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
New Toy, But Not Mine - - -
My eldest showed up tonight to pick-up his son (pushing 2 years old now) carrying a new toy. I looked it over, handled it and even tried some dry firing. I like it. I like it a lot. When gripped correctly I can even get my short trigger finger on the front of the trigger, but just barely. And it holds 12 40S&W in the magazine. I like it a lot more than Glocks or Springfield XDs. The only thing I didn't like was the feel of the trigger, but I bet a little use will smooth that out a bit. Then again my opinion of striker fired pistol triggers will always be biased by my long experience with single action guns.
Would you believe he only paid $350 for a brand new pistol with 2 magazines? It's a fine thing being friends with a guy having a FFL.
At first I thought Steyr quit making pistols because this site didn't have anything but long guns. But then I found their other site, though you still have to search a lot to find them.
If I ran across one of their offerings chambered in, say .357Sig, for anything close to the price above I'd get it in a heart beat.
Would you believe he only paid $350 for a brand new pistol with 2 magazines? It's a fine thing being friends with a guy having a FFL.
At first I thought Steyr quit making pistols because this site didn't have anything but long guns. But then I found their other site, though you still have to search a lot to find them.
If I ran across one of their offerings chambered in, say .357Sig, for anything close to the price above I'd get it in a heart beat.
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
Obama Signs - DOW Falls
Obama signs the bill that will, generally speeking, effect the economics of my grandchildren and what happens on the stock market? The DOW drops something like 300 points. History has shown that government spending does nothing but increase the national debt followed by high inflation. Some "expert" said that government spending $1 has the same effect as cutting taxes $1.70. Or at least I think that's what he said. I think he has conveniently forgotten that government spending $1 costs maybe $1.50 stolen from me. The extra $.50 is because of the government inefficiency.
Never mind this is another step toward total socialism, or is it communism. Most European countries have socialist democracies and they're having tougher economic times then we are. They've lived with 50+% taxation and double digit unemployment for years, I wonder how high it is now. They have an exctremely high percentage of people that can't afford homes or cars. Is that where the "change" is leading us?
Never mind this is another step toward total socialism, or is it communism. Most European countries have socialist democracies and they're having tougher economic times then we are. They've lived with 50+% taxation and double digit unemployment for years, I wonder how high it is now. They have an exctremely high percentage of people that can't afford homes or cars. Is that where the "change" is leading us?
Woman . . . Defend Yourself
Just because you are a woman doesn't mean you need a man for protection, with training and the proper tools you can defend yourself.
Unfortunately there are a lot of women that just don't think that way, The Boss is one of them. I suppose that's a product of their parents teachings.
And from the comments.
I am a 5'4" 125 lbs. 28 year old woman that pretty much considers a gun part of her wardrobe. I have a concealed permit, so I can carry my gun(s) the majority of the time I'm out of my house. I wish more women would carry guns. I think that all women should carry. As it has been joked "God made Adam and Eve, Samuel Colt made them equals."
Unfortunately there are a lot of women that just don't think that way, The Boss is one of them. I suppose that's a product of their parents teachings.
And from the comments.
I am a 5'4" 125 lbs. 28 year old woman that pretty much considers a gun part of her wardrobe. I have a concealed permit, so I can carry my gun(s) the majority of the time I'm out of my house. I wish more women would carry guns. I think that all women should carry. As it has been joked "God made Adam and Eve, Samuel Colt made them equals."
Monday, February 16, 2009
House Guns
James put a couple of good posts here and here regarding house guns.
Personally I keep 4 loaded guns in the house. The bedroom has a 1911 45acp loaded and on half cock with a spare magazine. There's also a HiPower 9mm in the same condition. If I'm checking the house because of some unusual noise I take the 45 and leave the 9mm with the Boss. And yes that's happened a few times. Thankfully it was just noise.
In the basement is my usual carry gun, a Kimber UltraCarry 45acp, loaded and on half cock with another spare magazine. There's also a 20 gage pump (smooth slug barrel) with #2 buckshot in its magazine. I spend a good deal of time in the basement, my man cave.
If it wasn't for the frequent visits by grandchildren, I'd have guns scattered around the house in several areas.
I always recommend that people who aren't gun people keep a shotgun for home defense, and to stay locked in a room until help arrives. Unfortunately I'm not the type who can take his own advice. And the Boss just can't handle a shotgun, even a 20 gage. That's why I keep 2 handguns in the bedroom. If I'm sneaking around the house, and I will, I'd rather have a short gun.
Personally I keep 4 loaded guns in the house. The bedroom has a 1911 45acp loaded and on half cock with a spare magazine. There's also a HiPower 9mm in the same condition. If I'm checking the house because of some unusual noise I take the 45 and leave the 9mm with the Boss. And yes that's happened a few times. Thankfully it was just noise.
In the basement is my usual carry gun, a Kimber UltraCarry 45acp, loaded and on half cock with another spare magazine. There's also a 20 gage pump (smooth slug barrel) with #2 buckshot in its magazine. I spend a good deal of time in the basement, my man cave.
If it wasn't for the frequent visits by grandchildren, I'd have guns scattered around the house in several areas.
I always recommend that people who aren't gun people keep a shotgun for home defense, and to stay locked in a room until help arrives. Unfortunately I'm not the type who can take his own advice. And the Boss just can't handle a shotgun, even a 20 gage. That's why I keep 2 handguns in the bedroom. If I'm sneaking around the house, and I will, I'd rather have a short gun.
Empty Buildings
I heard on the news last night the local city has made the top 5 in the country, . . . . . of the most vacant cities. This was an area of a lot of manufacturing, mostly automotive. Now there's many vacant commercial buildings, vacant housing and foreclosures. If you're a factory worker, especially unskilled, the best hope of employment is elsewhere.
And the so-called stimulus package won't help this area one tiny little bit.
And the so-called stimulus package won't help this area one tiny little bit.
Loading for my AR (2)
Well I haven't gotten very far because the de-capper broke in the Hornady die. I only got a dozen sized before the thing broke. I'll load up the 12, two different loads, for the next trip to the range. Now that I have a 3-9X mounted I'll be able to test some factory stuff and 2 hand loads.
I know Hornady will replace the broken part at no charge, but its still an aggravation.
I know Hornady will replace the broken part at no charge, but its still an aggravation.
Saturday, February 14, 2009
Window Shopping
I took the truck out today to one of those self-wash car wash places and hosed off the worst of the road salt residue. At least it's warm enough that the water didn't freeze on the truck before it dried.
While out I stopped at 2 local gun shops to browse a little. To my surprise their inventory is back up to normal levels, despite both places being crowded. I looked at a Kahr CW9 and a Keltec P-3AT.
I've been looking at the CW9 for a few months now, but so far I've resisted buying one. The Kahr products are the only striker fired pistols produced today that actually fit my small hands, but that's not the only reason to consider the CW9. The biggest reasons are the very slim profile, light weight and polymer frame. As much as I like my Kimber UltraCarry there are times when a slimmer and lighter carry gun would be ideal, especially in the summer. If I ever decide to get one it won't be from a retail store. I know a guy who'll get me one at dealer cost.
Then of late I've been considering a tiny little pocket gun for backup or to just drop in the pocket. That's why the Keltec is under consideration. They're relatively inexpensive at $270 retail, but have a reputation for working. One salesman said they sell a bunch of those little 380acp pistols and hasn't had complaints. Apparently the new and tiny Ruger is more refined looking but they run $40 more.
My Walther PPK (32acp) and Llama MicroMax (380acp) are both rather small guns, and I like them. But they're both a little too large and heavy to be true pocket guns.
I'm also keeping my eyes open for a used and beat up 30-06 or 308. If I find one at the right price it will become a project rifle. I'll get it re-barreled for either the 35 Whalen or 358 Winchester.
Another possibility is something chambered in a small caliber speed burner like the 22-250 or 264 Mag. That would have to be in better shape, not a project.
I've had my fill of 30 caliber class rifles.
While out I stopped at 2 local gun shops to browse a little. To my surprise their inventory is back up to normal levels, despite both places being crowded. I looked at a Kahr CW9 and a Keltec P-3AT.
I've been looking at the CW9 for a few months now, but so far I've resisted buying one. The Kahr products are the only striker fired pistols produced today that actually fit my small hands, but that's not the only reason to consider the CW9. The biggest reasons are the very slim profile, light weight and polymer frame. As much as I like my Kimber UltraCarry there are times when a slimmer and lighter carry gun would be ideal, especially in the summer. If I ever decide to get one it won't be from a retail store. I know a guy who'll get me one at dealer cost.
Then of late I've been considering a tiny little pocket gun for backup or to just drop in the pocket. That's why the Keltec is under consideration. They're relatively inexpensive at $270 retail, but have a reputation for working. One salesman said they sell a bunch of those little 380acp pistols and hasn't had complaints. Apparently the new and tiny Ruger is more refined looking but they run $40 more.
My Walther PPK (32acp) and Llama MicroMax (380acp) are both rather small guns, and I like them. But they're both a little too large and heavy to be true pocket guns.
I'm also keeping my eyes open for a used and beat up 30-06 or 308. If I find one at the right price it will become a project rifle. I'll get it re-barreled for either the 35 Whalen or 358 Winchester.
Another possibility is something chambered in a small caliber speed burner like the 22-250 or 264 Mag. That would have to be in better shape, not a project.
I've had my fill of 30 caliber class rifles.
Thursday, February 12, 2009
Coming Conflict
A few weeks ago The Boss told me I didn't have enough ammo in the house, so being a dutiful husband I went to the gun show and brought home an additional 400 rounds for the AR and 700 for the SKS. I determined that 1200 for the CETME was sufficient. I did this just to make The Boss feel better. You see I don't really shoot ALL that much.
As it turns out, she wasn't concerned about the anti-gun government, but by her perceived coming of lawlessness due to the economy and government tyranny. Why would she be so concerned? How about plans being made to have US military deployed throughout the country? How about additional plans to trample state and citizen rights? How about the left controlled government continuing their persecution of religion, especially Christianity? How about plans to steal personal IRAs and 401Ks, then dribbling it out through Social Security? How about national IDs, and national gun owner registration?
Looks to me like several states are feeling the same way. They're claiming their constitutional sovereignty. Let's hope the Feds get the message. I'd sure hate to see us torn apart by a civil war. Doing all the above sure has the potential to start one.
As it turns out, she wasn't concerned about the anti-gun government, but by her perceived coming of lawlessness due to the economy and government tyranny. Why would she be so concerned? How about plans being made to have US military deployed throughout the country? How about additional plans to trample state and citizen rights? How about the left controlled government continuing their persecution of religion, especially Christianity? How about plans to steal personal IRAs and 401Ks, then dribbling it out through Social Security? How about national IDs, and national gun owner registration?
Looks to me like several states are feeling the same way. They're claiming their constitutional sovereignty. Let's hope the Feds get the message. I'd sure hate to see us torn apart by a civil war. Doing all the above sure has the potential to start one.
Hard to Get
I was expecting a buyers run on guns, especially utility firearms like the AR. That's why I bought mine last summer, and even then receivers were getting rare. I also expected the appropriate ammunition to be flying off the shelves. I must admit that I didn't expect other gun related objects to be hard to find.
Some of the things now hard to get are primers, some types of bullets and Accurate gunpowder. And then I was very surprised to find that a certain brand of red dot sight has become hard to get. I was going to buy 2 of them through a FFL guy I know, only to be told that his distributor doesn't have any, and doesn't know when they'll get them.
Obama sure has had a positive effect on one part of the economy.
Some of the things now hard to get are primers, some types of bullets and Accurate gunpowder. And then I was very surprised to find that a certain brand of red dot sight has become hard to get. I was going to buy 2 of them through a FFL guy I know, only to be told that his distributor doesn't have any, and doesn't know when they'll get them.
Obama sure has had a positive effect on one part of the economy.
Loading For my AR (1)
As you can tell by the title I intent to make this a series that, because of my somewhat busy life, will most likely span a period of months.
When I start working up loads for a bolt action rifle I first determine the 'sweet spot' for each bullet I intend to try. It's my experience that each cartridge, gun, bullet combination, regardless of powder or velocity, has a specific bullet seating depth that is the most accurate. With some exceptions it's the point where the bullet starts its flight .005" to .020" from the rifling. Those exceptions are shooting very light bullets in my .303 SMLE and 7mm Mag. Those can't come close to the lands because they're too short.
I know that bench rest shooters sometimes have the bullets touching the rifling, but that requires a whole lot more precision than I'm willing to spend the time doing. Also, doing that has the very real danger of causing excessive pressures.
This week I measured the over-all length to the bullet olgive where the bullet touches the lands. The bullet is the Sierra 55 grain HPBT. What I found is that with the over all cartridge length at maximum to fit in the magazine, the bullet is .056" from touching the rifling. So unless I want to shoot this auto-loader as a single shot, having the bullet close to the rifling just isn't going to happen. So my first loads are going to start at the maximum length and then shorten by .005", .010" and .015". Being that far away, I don't know if length will have much of a difference, but I'll find out.
When I start working up loads for a bolt action rifle I first determine the 'sweet spot' for each bullet I intend to try. It's my experience that each cartridge, gun, bullet combination, regardless of powder or velocity, has a specific bullet seating depth that is the most accurate. With some exceptions it's the point where the bullet starts its flight .005" to .020" from the rifling. Those exceptions are shooting very light bullets in my .303 SMLE and 7mm Mag. Those can't come close to the lands because they're too short.
I know that bench rest shooters sometimes have the bullets touching the rifling, but that requires a whole lot more precision than I'm willing to spend the time doing. Also, doing that has the very real danger of causing excessive pressures.
This week I measured the over-all length to the bullet olgive where the bullet touches the lands. The bullet is the Sierra 55 grain HPBT. What I found is that with the over all cartridge length at maximum to fit in the magazine, the bullet is .056" from touching the rifling. So unless I want to shoot this auto-loader as a single shot, having the bullet close to the rifling just isn't going to happen. So my first loads are going to start at the maximum length and then shorten by .005", .010" and .015". Being that far away, I don't know if length will have much of a difference, but I'll find out.
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
Not My Fault
Ever notice how politicians resemble children. When ever anything is wrong, it is always the other guy, or the last guy who's responsible. Having elections every so often is a good thing because there's always the possibility that some dick-head can be thrown out. It's also a bad thing, because it gives the new dick-head an excuse.
Also notice how those of the Evil Party has taken this to a new level? When Bush was elected he was blamed for a recession that he couldn't possibly have had anything to do with. Now that he's gone, it's still his fault. The common denominator in both situations is the Evil Party. They were in control of congress for both. They had the over-sight in their court. They passed laws that hurt the banking industry. And now they're the ones that's going to fix everything? I don't think so Lucy.
Also notice how those of the Evil Party has taken this to a new level? When Bush was elected he was blamed for a recession that he couldn't possibly have had anything to do with. Now that he's gone, it's still his fault. The common denominator in both situations is the Evil Party. They were in control of congress for both. They had the over-sight in their court. They passed laws that hurt the banking industry. And now they're the ones that's going to fix everything? I don't think so Lucy.
Sunday, February 8, 2009
5.56 Into .223 Dies
My AR is marked .223 - 5.56 so I purchased .223 reloading dies. I've been shooting ammo head stamped 5.56x45 PPU07, and FIOCCHI and Winchester .223. I assume the PPU07 is Mil Surp ammo. When I run the 5.56 into the .223 dies I'm smearing the surface of the brass near the base. This doesn't happen when I run .223 brass through the dies. I don't know if the Mil brass is harder or softer, but it looks like I won't be reloading the stuff.
Update - 2/9/08
My AR is custom assembled with a DPMS lower marked .223-5.56, and a barrel marked 5.56.
I also have some Lake City 5.56 brass that works in my .223 dies. The Lake City 5.56, and FIOCCHI and Winchester .223 resize in the .223 dies just fine, but the 5.56 PPU07 doesn't.
My Hornady & Sierra reloading books show no difference in cartridge dimensions, and niether does my Manual of Cartridge Conversions, though it seems to be common knowledge that there is a slight difference. Looks like a little research is in order, maybe SAAMI will tell me something.
Update - 2/10/08
Well SAAMI didn't help any. They want payment for just about any little bit of information, and I'm not in the paying mood. If this is correct, the biggest difference is that the 5.56 is rated for a higher pressure and the distance to the lands is a little longer than the .223 chambering. Assuming the nominal dimensions are the same, I'd bet the tolerances are different.
Apparently nobody reloads to the 5.56 specifications, because I didn't find any dies for it at RCBS or Hornady. Dies for the .223 are available though.
Update - 2/9/08
My AR is custom assembled with a DPMS lower marked .223-5.56, and a barrel marked 5.56.
I also have some Lake City 5.56 brass that works in my .223 dies. The Lake City 5.56, and FIOCCHI and Winchester .223 resize in the .223 dies just fine, but the 5.56 PPU07 doesn't.
My Hornady & Sierra reloading books show no difference in cartridge dimensions, and niether does my Manual of Cartridge Conversions, though it seems to be common knowledge that there is a slight difference. Looks like a little research is in order, maybe SAAMI will tell me something.
Update - 2/10/08
Well SAAMI didn't help any. They want payment for just about any little bit of information, and I'm not in the paying mood. If this is correct, the biggest difference is that the 5.56 is rated for a higher pressure and the distance to the lands is a little longer than the .223 chambering. Assuming the nominal dimensions are the same, I'd bet the tolerances are different.
Apparently nobody reloads to the 5.56 specifications, because I didn't find any dies for it at RCBS or Hornady. Dies for the .223 are available though.
Hypocrisy
Historically the Evil Party has had little trouble spending taxpayer money, and of late neither has the Stupid Party. Apparently the high ranking members of the Evil Party have issues with the IRS. They don't pay their taxes, but spending 1 trillion of our money is just fine. A little hypocrisy there? And they're repeating the failed policy of the past.
Saturday, February 7, 2009
Be Aware
At my insistance The Boss will not open the door to our home to anyone she doesn't know personally, even if that person is wearing a police uniform. She also will not pull over when driving alone for any vehicle. She'll drive to the nearest police station or fire station before stopping.
It's rare, but occasionally home invasions have been helped by opening the door to a man in police uniform. It's also rare, but police impersonaters have also attacked women that've pulled over for an apparent traffic stop. It's best to keep thinking of oneself as opposed to falling lock-step into compliance of a uniform.
I'm also of the strong opinion that all women should be armed at all times, though in general this doesn't seem to be in their nature. The primal notion that a womans man is her protector seems well ingrained, even today.
It's rare, but occasionally home invasions have been helped by opening the door to a man in police uniform. It's also rare, but police impersonaters have also attacked women that've pulled over for an apparent traffic stop. It's best to keep thinking of oneself as opposed to falling lock-step into compliance of a uniform.
I'm also of the strong opinion that all women should be armed at all times, though in general this doesn't seem to be in their nature. The primal notion that a womans man is her protector seems well ingrained, even today.
Friday, February 6, 2009
We Can do Better
According to the Brady Bunch, my home state of Ohio ranks 20th on their list of anti-liberty foolishness. Surely we can do better than that. Let's relax a restriction or 2 and shoot for say . . 27th as a first step.
David Warns Goliath
When and if I ever get to retire, I will strongly consider moving to New Hampshire. They served notice to the Feds that they've had about all they'll tolerate.
That any Act by the Congress of the United States, Executive Order of the President of the United States of America or Judicial Order by the Judicatories of the United States of America which assumes a power not delegated to the government of United States of America by the Constitution for the United States of America and which serves to diminish the liberty of the any of the several States or their citizens shall constitute a nullification of theConstitution for the United States of America by the government of the United States of America.
Acts which would cause such a nullification include, but are not limited to:
I. Establishing martial law or a state of emergency within one of the States . . .
II. Requiring involuntary servitude, or governmental service other than a draft during a declared war, . . .
III. Requiring involuntary servitude or governmental service of persons under the age of 18 . . .
IV. Surrendering any power delegated or not delegated to any corporation or foreign government.V. Any act regarding religion; further limitations on freedom of political speech; or further limitations on freedom of the press.VI. Further infringements on the right to keep and bear arms including prohibitions of type or quantity of arms or ammunition; . . .
When, not if, the Feds violate one or more of those provisions in the next four years things could get interesting. I wonder if The People and the state government have the gonads. If they do, it'll be tempting to move there before I retire.
That any Act by the Congress of the United States, Executive Order of the President of the United States of America or Judicial Order by the Judicatories of the United States of America which assumes a power not delegated to the government of United States of America by the Constitution for the United States of America and which serves to diminish the liberty of the any of the several States or their citizens shall constitute a nullification of theConstitution for the United States of America by the government of the United States of America.
Acts which would cause such a nullification include, but are not limited to:
I. Establishing martial law or a state of emergency within one of the States . . .
II. Requiring involuntary servitude, or governmental service other than a draft during a declared war, . . .
III. Requiring involuntary servitude or governmental service of persons under the age of 18 . . .
IV. Surrendering any power delegated or not delegated to any corporation or foreign government.V. Any act regarding religion; further limitations on freedom of political speech; or further limitations on freedom of the press.VI. Further infringements on the right to keep and bear arms including prohibitions of type or quantity of arms or ammunition; . . .
When, not if, the Feds violate one or more of those provisions in the next four years things could get interesting. I wonder if The People and the state government have the gonads. If they do, it'll be tempting to move there before I retire.
Registration
When I told my eldest son about the bill introduced requiring gun owners being registered, like in Illinois, he didn't say very much. In a quiet businesslike manner he said he doubts any such bill would ever become federal law in this country. Too many of us value our liberties and civil rights to tolerate that or confiscation. That kind of crap is not why he voluntarily served in the Marines. He also said he will not surrender his guns, and he will not be registered like a car, or a Jew in Nazi Germany.
It appears The Boss and I did OK with raising that man.
It appears The Boss and I did OK with raising that man.
Thursday, February 5, 2009
Testing Fun
I finally got around to getting enough stuff to start reloading for the AR. Besides, I may actually have some time to do it now. I'll start the same way I did with my various bolt guns.
I've found by experimentation that any given bullet gets the best accuracy at a predetermined distance from the lands, regardless of the powder used and the velocity. Yeah, bench rest shooters sometimes seat the bullet such that it actually touches the lands. Well I'm not taking any chances of creating the extra high pressures that can be generated this way. And besides, I'm not a bench rest guy. So I'm going to load some 223, Sierra 55Gr HPBT at various bullet depths starting at .005 off the lands and work back to about .020. That's the only bullet I presently have to try. I'm assuming that I won't have a maximum overall length problem. Will they still fit in the magazine? I'll find out.
Later I'll try different powders once I have the best depth determined.
Oh, and I'll mount a scope on the flat top for the tests. Iron sights or the HoloSight just aren't good enough with these old eyes for load testing.
I haven't been in any hurry to start loading for the AR since The Boss insisted that I get more ammo. I'm down to about 900 rounds, so I guess it's time.
I'm an engineer by profession, but I AM an engineer. I even pull technical stuff into my hobbies.
I've found by experimentation that any given bullet gets the best accuracy at a predetermined distance from the lands, regardless of the powder used and the velocity. Yeah, bench rest shooters sometimes seat the bullet such that it actually touches the lands. Well I'm not taking any chances of creating the extra high pressures that can be generated this way. And besides, I'm not a bench rest guy. So I'm going to load some 223, Sierra 55Gr HPBT at various bullet depths starting at .005 off the lands and work back to about .020. That's the only bullet I presently have to try. I'm assuming that I won't have a maximum overall length problem. Will they still fit in the magazine? I'll find out.
Later I'll try different powders once I have the best depth determined.
Oh, and I'll mount a scope on the flat top for the tests. Iron sights or the HoloSight just aren't good enough with these old eyes for load testing.
I haven't been in any hurry to start loading for the AR since The Boss insisted that I get more ammo. I'm down to about 900 rounds, so I guess it's time.
I'm an engineer by profession, but I AM an engineer. I even pull technical stuff into my hobbies.
To Spend or Not to Spend
The Dems think they can spend our money to lift us out of the recession. The Reps think tax reductions create jobs by letting The People and businesses spend us out of the recession. If those are the only choices then I trust The People and business greed a hell of a lot more than I trust any government. Besides, if memory serves me correctly, government spending never worked before, and it's usually followed by heavy inflation.
Monday, February 2, 2009
How to Kill an Ailing Economy
If any new taxes are levied on me, or my company, my reaction will be swift and simple. I'll fire you. I'll fire your co-workers. You can then plead with the government to pay for your mortgage, your SUV, and your child's future. Frankly, it isn't my problem any more.
A Letter from the Boss
And that's what happens when the socialist-crats are running things. Tax, tax, tax businesses. Make it hard on those that provide jobs. Punish those that are successful, and reward the others. Yep the new messiah and his gang aregoing to fix everything. As a group we sure are stupid people in this country for electing them.
A Letter from the Boss
And that's what happens when the socialist-crats are running things. Tax, tax, tax businesses. Make it hard on those that provide jobs. Punish those that are successful, and reward the others. Yep the new messiah and his gang aregoing to fix everything. As a group we sure are stupid people in this country for electing them.
Sunday, February 1, 2009
Wildey
As I sit in front of the computer, Death Wish III is airing. That's the version that featured the .475 Wildey Mag handgun. I'd really like to own one of those monsters, but at a starting price of $1500+, that'll probably never happen.
Went to the local gun show today with an old friend. We hadn't spoken for several months. It was certainly good to see him again. I was once again tempted to buy a Kahr CW9, and then a Charter Arms .44 Bulldog. But left only $10 behind at the show.
Why the Bulldog? Mostly because I own a .44 Mag, so loading the old .44 Special won't require any extra equipment. The 44 was very tempting though I've never fired a short barreled 44 special, or even handled one before. If you only have 5 in the cylinder it might as well be five big ones.
Went to the local gun show today with an old friend. We hadn't spoken for several months. It was certainly good to see him again. I was once again tempted to buy a Kahr CW9, and then a Charter Arms .44 Bulldog. But left only $10 behind at the show.
Why the Bulldog? Mostly because I own a .44 Mag, so loading the old .44 Special won't require any extra equipment. The 44 was very tempting though I've never fired a short barreled 44 special, or even handled one before. If you only have 5 in the cylinder it might as well be five big ones.
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