Tuesday, July 31, 2012
Monday, July 30, 2012
Ammo.....
Many have posted about a proposed online ammo ban. The most humorous came from my friend over at Murphys Law. The M-60 picture was icing on the cake.
I really don't have a dog in this fight yet, but I will voice my opinion on it to the Congresscritters.
I ordered some ammo online right before I posted this (clicky to embiggie).
That's 4000 rounds of 9, 2000 rounds of 45 and 1000 rounds of 380. Should go well with this:
As always, Americans will adapt and overcome. The thing that galls me is the fact that no one stocks stuff below like this locally and it is the online vendors that can afford to stock it as it is not really popular to have on the shelf, pay property tax on, etc.
I don't shoot these things a lot, but I would like to shoot them if I want to (well except my only Glock in the corner)! Yes, I can reconfigure the press and make this stuff, but still. Going after online sales of ammo is yet another feel good, does nothing thing. The vendors have a copy of my drivers license, I have a FFL and my CCH permit as well as my instructor permit from my State DOJ.
I am ashamed of the people supposedly representing us. Icing on the cake? The people at Montana Gold have engineered sturdy shipping boxes to fit in the flat rate flimsy USPS "It fits, it ships" boxes. Heh. I like that as they will hump 50+ pounds per box across the country for oh, 7 bucks.
I really don't have a dog in this fight yet, but I will voice my opinion on it to the Congresscritters.
I ordered some ammo online right before I posted this (clicky to embiggie).
That's 4000 rounds of 9, 2000 rounds of 45 and 1000 rounds of 380. Should go well with this:
Some assembly is required however:
As always, Americans will adapt and overcome. The thing that galls me is the fact that no one stocks stuff below like this locally and it is the online vendors that can afford to stock it as it is not really popular to have on the shelf, pay property tax on, etc.
I don't shoot these things a lot, but I would like to shoot them if I want to (well except my only Glock in the corner)! Yes, I can reconfigure the press and make this stuff, but still. Going after online sales of ammo is yet another feel good, does nothing thing. The vendors have a copy of my drivers license, I have a FFL and my CCH permit as well as my instructor permit from my State DOJ.
I am ashamed of the people supposedly representing us. Icing on the cake? The people at Montana Gold have engineered sturdy shipping boxes to fit in the flat rate flimsy USPS "It fits, it ships" boxes. Heh. I like that as they will hump 50+ pounds per box across the country for oh, 7 bucks.
Sunday, July 29, 2012
Tools
They got worked today. I always try to get to a class at least once a year on running these tools. I always learn something and it keeps me humble as I teach my classes. I always learn more about teaching and classroom management too.
Someone will always run the gun better than you, I just hope I am not "that guy" in classes. So I'm getting ready to run back up to Culpepper Va for a Kathy Jackson class hosted by a girl and her gun. Hey Murph, what are you doing In September? I have the Enfield here that needs some help! Hell, If I'm in Culpepper, you are not that far of a jump!
Ya'll are way too north for my tastes, but I will make an exception for you two and Proud Hillbilly!
Someone will always run the gun better than you, I just hope I am not "that guy" in classes. So I'm getting ready to run back up to Culpepper Va for a Kathy Jackson class hosted by a girl and her gun. Hey Murph, what are you doing In September? I have the Enfield here that needs some help! Hell, If I'm in Culpepper, you are not that far of a jump!
Ya'll are way too north for my tastes, but I will make an exception for you two and Proud Hillbilly!
Friday, July 27, 2012
For my friends that take to the air.
Way back then I stepped into a Cessna 172 as a Civil Air Patrol Cadet. I think I can still sit in the right hand seat and not embarrass myself. Its been a long time, but things taught then have not changed. I think I can run the Turn and Balance indicator fine.
For my friends that take to the sky routinely I offer this little missive.
I would be honored to sit with you on your right hand side. It is also paramount to me to not embarrass you if I do.
For my friends that take to the sky routinely I offer this little missive.
I would be honored to sit with you on your right hand side. It is also paramount to me to not embarrass you if I do.
Anyone in Town August 25?
If you are, I would like to meet you at this event!
The last one I went to was two years ago and I had a blast! Unfortunately the companion I had then cannot attend this year. She lives 2 hours away and is a Realtor now instead of a Sheriffs Deputy as she was previously ("More money, fewer jerks"). The weekends are her bread and butter.
This branch of the NRA promotes the shooting sports and is a 501 (c) 3 non-profit (NRA Foundation). "Half the money raised at every Friends of NRA event throughout the country is given back to the state to fund programs and projects within their own area. The other half goes to The NRA Foundation and is used to fund similar projects with a national scope.
If there is one in your area and you have never attended, I promise if you go you will have a good time!
The last one I went to was two years ago and I had a blast! Unfortunately the companion I had then cannot attend this year. She lives 2 hours away and is a Realtor now instead of a Sheriffs Deputy as she was previously ("More money, fewer jerks"). The weekends are her bread and butter.
This branch of the NRA promotes the shooting sports and is a 501 (c) 3 non-profit (NRA Foundation). "Half the money raised at every Friends of NRA event throughout the country is given back to the state to fund programs and projects within their own area. The other half goes to The NRA Foundation and is used to fund similar projects with a national scope.
The NRA Foundation grants provide essential program funding that ensures the availability of quality training and educational opportunities nationwide. Grants benefit programs such as youth education, law enforcement training, hunter education, conservation, firearms and marksmanship training and safety, and much more".
They sponsor the Boy Scout Rifle Merit Badge and I always have a great time teaching the young men and helping them to qualify for the badge.
I can even provide reasonable accommodations at stately manor if you need a place to stay overnight.
If there is one in your area and you have never attended, I promise if you go you will have a good time!
Thursday, July 26, 2012
Retro Tires
From the 2005 November Issue of Mustang Monthly comes this article. Here is the first paragraph:
So I am reminded of this line: " Ones for the money but I'm thru with the show".
.
"Twenty years ago, when concours restorations dominated the hobby, tire selection was simple. You chose either reproductions of the original-equipment tires from Coker Tire and Kelsey Tire or you installed a set of radials that looked close in appearance to original equipment--a modern radial tire with the correct-width whitewall band. Owners of '69-'73 Mach 1s or Bosses who wanted to drive their cars opted for BFGoodrich Radial T/As or Goodyear Eagle STs with raised white letters instead of the factory-original Goodyear Polyglas or Firestone Wide-Oval bias-belted ones".
On the 1966 here we have the Coker Tires.
Repo B.F. Goodrich Silvertown 660 dual redwalls in this size.
6.95-14 4 ply. NOT radials. They look cool and concurs correct, but are somewhat of a handful when driving. To add to my displeasure, they are 20+ years old. Time to find some radials and be done with this. I will not show the car anymore, I have too much to do and I would really rather enjoy driving her now. Squalling tires on Hawaii Five-0 (the old one)? I believe it. Driving around on these pizza cutters leaves much to be desired.
Time for replacement. Hmm.... Now it gets interesting. From the article: "If your '65 Mustang was designed for 6.95x14 tires, what do you install on it now? In 1965, tire sizing was based on section width and wheel diameter. A 6.95x14 tire was 6.95 inches wide (sidewall to sidewall) around a 14-inch-diameter rim. A 7.00x13 tire was 7.00 inches wide around a 13-inch-diameter rim, and so on....
What does all this mean when trying to properly size P-metric and ISO Metric radial tires to a classic Mustang? Your Mustang's original 6.95x14 tire size is easily converted to P-metric sizing. First, the aspect ratio of your Mustang's 6.95x14 tire sizing is around 83. All we have to do now is convert 195 millimeters to inches. One inch amounts to 25.4 millimeters. With that in mind, 195 millimeters is 7.68 inches. This is nearly three quarters of an inch wider than the 6.95-inch width of our Mustang's original tires..... Through the years, we've learned that P195/78R14 and P205/78R14 are ideal Mustang tire sizes if you're seeking original outside-diameter tire sizing. This keeps tire height close to original and your speedometer reading close to accurate. The P195 is closest when it comes to speedometer accuracy."
Well that is great if you can still GET tires in that size!
Time to improvise. Times 2: The 1971:
Tires even older than the 1966. These are on the 1971.
Where is my wine? The Woman in the go go boots and miniskirt? This used to be simple right?
Well, at least although these wheels are considered the ugliest made in Mustang history I can get tires for it without a mental exercise!
On the 1966 here we have the Coker Tires.
Repo B.F. Goodrich Silvertown 660 dual redwalls in this size.
6.95-14 4 ply. NOT radials. They look cool and concurs correct, but are somewhat of a handful when driving. To add to my displeasure, they are 20+ years old. Time to find some radials and be done with this. I will not show the car anymore, I have too much to do and I would really rather enjoy driving her now. Squalling tires on Hawaii Five-0 (the old one)? I believe it. Driving around on these pizza cutters leaves much to be desired.
Time for replacement. Hmm.... Now it gets interesting. From the article: "If your '65 Mustang was designed for 6.95x14 tires, what do you install on it now? In 1965, tire sizing was based on section width and wheel diameter. A 6.95x14 tire was 6.95 inches wide (sidewall to sidewall) around a 14-inch-diameter rim. A 7.00x13 tire was 7.00 inches wide around a 13-inch-diameter rim, and so on....
What does all this mean when trying to properly size P-metric and ISO Metric radial tires to a classic Mustang? Your Mustang's original 6.95x14 tire size is easily converted to P-metric sizing. First, the aspect ratio of your Mustang's 6.95x14 tire sizing is around 83. All we have to do now is convert 195 millimeters to inches. One inch amounts to 25.4 millimeters. With that in mind, 195 millimeters is 7.68 inches. This is nearly three quarters of an inch wider than the 6.95-inch width of our Mustang's original tires..... Through the years, we've learned that P195/78R14 and P205/78R14 are ideal Mustang tire sizes if you're seeking original outside-diameter tire sizing. This keeps tire height close to original and your speedometer reading close to accurate. The P195 is closest when it comes to speedometer accuracy."
Well that is great if you can still GET tires in that size!
Time to improvise. Times 2: The 1971:
Tires even older than the 1966. These are on the 1971.
Where is my wine? The Woman in the go go boots and miniskirt? This used to be simple right?
Well, at least although these wheels are considered the ugliest made in Mustang history I can get tires for it without a mental exercise!
So I am reminded of this line: " Ones for the money but I'm thru with the show".
.
Wednesday, July 25, 2012
From my local gun store!
Larry Hyatt owns one big honking gun store. Nice guy to boot!
Local gun shop says business has increased since Colorado...
Local gun shop says business has increased since Colorado...
Colt lost the M-4 Contract but Picked Up This One!
"The Marine Corps has tapped Colt Defense LLC to make more than 10,000 new Close Quarter Battle Pistols for the service's elite special operations troops.
The July 19 contract, which has a total value of $22.5 million, brings an end to the Corps' exhaustive search for the top .45 caliber, 1911-style pistol to replace the fleet of worn-out Marine Corps Forces Special Operations Command, or MARSOC, M45 pistols.....The most visual difference is the Colt models will come in Coyote tan instead of gunmetal, Clark said. Marine officials would not discuss the individual price for each new pistol. But the $22.5 million contract to Colt will allow the Corps to buy replacements for the new pistols as they wear out, Clark said. The contract also includes some money for spare parts." From Military.com
Tuesday, July 24, 2012
Sigh.....
So after a busy weekend we attend to pedestrian domestic chores. One or two have cropped up:
This Wiper arm on the 1966 Mustang has decided to go to the dark side. Nothing I can do with a Dremel and magic polishes works. Hey no biggie, get a new one right?
Sigh....
Out of stock.
Ok, hows everything else? Turn her over and no joy. Starting fluid works and then no fuel.
Fuel pump and hose feeding it are not what they used to be. Noticed this while trying to start the car too:
Found the little missing trim piece on the floorboard. Another sigh.
I should expect such stuff. Although the car LOOKS brand new, it has been 20+ years since it was taken apart and put back together. Some things wear with time, not miles. Set the wayback machine for some cheap therapy circa 1990:
Well that helps! I don't look like this any more either:
In retrospect that might be a good thing! The 1971 suffers from the same thing as the '66. Few miles, a long time. I fear I suffer from both!
Oh, and the tree rat condominium in the front yard suffered a structural failure last night:
Something to add to the list!
And another thing. Remember this?
Branded as a Colt .22 caliber 1911 rail gun. I was wrong, its a Umarex instead of Walther. Called them and Sigh.... "We are out of slide stops, call back next week". Really? The standard 1911 stop will not work in this thing. How about you take my name and address and ship me one when you get them? Hell are they organically grown in a South America jungle or something?
This Wiper arm on the 1966 Mustang has decided to go to the dark side. Nothing I can do with a Dremel and magic polishes works. Hey no biggie, get a new one right?
Sigh....
Out of stock.
Ok, hows everything else? Turn her over and no joy. Starting fluid works and then no fuel.
Fuel pump and hose feeding it are not what they used to be. Noticed this while trying to start the car too:
Found the little missing trim piece on the floorboard. Another sigh.
I should expect such stuff. Although the car LOOKS brand new, it has been 20+ years since it was taken apart and put back together. Some things wear with time, not miles. Set the wayback machine for some cheap therapy circa 1990:
Well that helps! I don't look like this any more either:
In retrospect that might be a good thing! The 1971 suffers from the same thing as the '66. Few miles, a long time. I fear I suffer from both!
Oh, and the tree rat condominium in the front yard suffered a structural failure last night:
Something to add to the list!
And another thing. Remember this?
Branded as a Colt .22 caliber 1911 rail gun. I was wrong, its a Umarex instead of Walther. Called them and Sigh.... "We are out of slide stops, call back next week". Really? The standard 1911 stop will not work in this thing. How about you take my name and address and ship me one when you get them? Hell are they organically grown in a South America jungle or something?
Saturday, July 21, 2012
Congrats!
For my new shooters today! 10 People that have never held a Firearm shot them today! They get one of these.
A mix of people, 18 to 70 years old. The machines were once again shown to be just that. Machines. They were demystified. They are tools after all. It depends on the person running it on how well that goes.
The thing I am getting now is that the people showing up for new shooter classes have an urgency about them. They want to know how these work, they want to know what is required to get a concealed carry permit. It is on me to do that for them.
For the 18 year old man today that was presented by his Father, I was stunned. The Father simply waited outside the classroom until we went live fire. Then he watched his son running handguns. Both grabbed my hand to shake after the events of the day. The class applauded before we went to shoot. That has never happened before. I was humbled. What is second nature to me, handed down from my Father *cough, cough* oh, 40 years or so ago that I took as a right of passage then is foreign to many now. So be it. I will pay it forward.
So tomorrow awaits. A Concealed Carry Class. Not just any class, this one will have our Better Business Bureau representative in it. Better do this tonight:
Um, yeah. If you care to look at this photo, the shoe brush shows a cost of 89 cents. A gift from my Father. It works great and hey, you can't get a Coke now for that!
Tomorrow awaits:
A mix of people, 18 to 70 years old. The machines were once again shown to be just that. Machines. They were demystified. They are tools after all. It depends on the person running it on how well that goes.
The thing I am getting now is that the people showing up for new shooter classes have an urgency about them. They want to know how these work, they want to know what is required to get a concealed carry permit. It is on me to do that for them.
For the 18 year old man today that was presented by his Father, I was stunned. The Father simply waited outside the classroom until we went live fire. Then he watched his son running handguns. Both grabbed my hand to shake after the events of the day. The class applauded before we went to shoot. That has never happened before. I was humbled. What is second nature to me, handed down from my Father *cough, cough* oh, 40 years or so ago that I took as a right of passage then is foreign to many now. So be it. I will pay it forward.
So tomorrow awaits. A Concealed Carry Class. Not just any class, this one will have our Better Business Bureau representative in it. Better do this tonight:
Um, yeah. If you care to look at this photo, the shoe brush shows a cost of 89 cents. A gift from my Father. It works great and hey, you can't get a Coke now for that!
Tomorrow awaits:
Thursday, July 19, 2012
Basic Pistol!
Once again the time has come for new shooter class (Basic Pistol or Hand Fam). This weekend! Where did the time go?
So what do you get in my BP class? You get the four rules first. I want you to be a better informed Handgun purchaser. I want you to have the basic administrative tasks of loading and unloading down. I want you to know how to handle a gun safely. Most importantly to me I want you to have fun and stay safe. I want to see you again in my Concealed Carry Handgun class.
I will show you a mix of tools to help you when you purchase. If you already have one, we will speak specifically to your gun.
Exhibit A:
Two pistols in the same caliber (.380) and about the same size, but totally different in the way they feel and operate. Above, a Kel-Tec P3AT and below a Smith and Wesson Bodyguard, both popular right now.
Exhibit B:
Above, a Colt Detective Special, below a Smith and Wesson Airweight. Again, similar size, but the weight difference is profound on felt recoil in the .38 Special cartridge. Throw a +P in the mix and it gets worse. In fact, I purchased the Smith from someone that fired it once and was done with it. Sad really, and the thing I work so hard to avoid.
Then we work on the fundamentals. This is facilitated by these, Exhibit C:
Above, Airsoft Colt .45 with CO2 powered blowback. Below, my only Glock =).
We use a laserlyte training cartridge in my M&P in class for dryfire.
Keeping it more entertaining (and me honest), we are watching this throughout the afternoon.
We talk of cleaning and maintenance and then finally we talk of range safety and the course of fire for the day
New shooters get 18 rounds of ammo. .22 cal semi or single action first, .38 Special DA revolvers next, then a semi 9mm in Glock or M&P.
It is a fast paced class and very rewarding for me. Can't wait!
So what do you get in my BP class? You get the four rules first. I want you to be a better informed Handgun purchaser. I want you to have the basic administrative tasks of loading and unloading down. I want you to know how to handle a gun safely. Most importantly to me I want you to have fun and stay safe. I want to see you again in my Concealed Carry Handgun class.
I will show you a mix of tools to help you when you purchase. If you already have one, we will speak specifically to your gun.
Exhibit A:
Two pistols in the same caliber (.380) and about the same size, but totally different in the way they feel and operate. Above, a Kel-Tec P3AT and below a Smith and Wesson Bodyguard, both popular right now.
Exhibit B:
Above, a Colt Detective Special, below a Smith and Wesson Airweight. Again, similar size, but the weight difference is profound on felt recoil in the .38 Special cartridge. Throw a +P in the mix and it gets worse. In fact, I purchased the Smith from someone that fired it once and was done with it. Sad really, and the thing I work so hard to avoid.
Then we work on the fundamentals. This is facilitated by these, Exhibit C:
Above, Airsoft Colt .45 with CO2 powered blowback. Below, my only Glock =).
We use a laserlyte training cartridge in my M&P in class for dryfire.
Keeping it more entertaining (and me honest), we are watching this throughout the afternoon.
We talk of cleaning and maintenance and then finally we talk of range safety and the course of fire for the day
New shooters get 18 rounds of ammo. .22 cal semi or single action first, .38 Special DA revolvers next, then a semi 9mm in Glock or M&P.
It is a fast paced class and very rewarding for me. Can't wait!
Wednesday, July 18, 2012
Music Question!
I don't get out much. I do have a question on some intro music for MidwayUSA's new series Gun Stories though. Super sharp people are here so I thought I would ask. There is no credit at the end of the show for it. So what is it and what are they saying?
Here is the storied machine gun featured tonight.
Forgive the primitive video capture. I just can't justify getting something to jack straight into the system. I used a video camera to grab it from the TV.
Here is tonight's star.
I can name THIS tune in two notes!
Here is the storied machine gun featured tonight.
Forgive the primitive video capture. I just can't justify getting something to jack straight into the system. I used a video camera to grab it from the TV.
Here is tonight's star.
I can name THIS tune in two notes!
Join The Battle to “Take Back America”
The mission of this PAC:
Mission
- Special Operations for America (SOFA) is committed to a strong and independent military that is capable of defending America’s freedoms and interests.
- SOFA is dedicated to restoring strong leadership to the Office of the Commander-in-Chief and those senior officials appointed by the President.
- SOFA believes in American exceptionalism along with leadership that does not minimize American greatness or politicize military achievements for personal gain.
- SOFA pledges to accurately address issues that affect our military and those core threats to National Security.
- SOFA will identify and provide accurate information on policies that harm or discredit our national security and those who bravely protect us.
Join The Battle to “Take Back America”
Tuesday, July 17, 2012
How to Vapor Lock a Telemarketer
I used to be really bent when telemarketers called. I got over it using this tried and true formula.
Oh, its fun too!
Phone person (PP): "Hello Sir we are conducting a survey in your area and would like to ask you a few questions."
Me: I would be more than happy to do so, what is the remuneration for my information (you must say this really, really happy like to be totally effective)?
PP: "This will not take long, etc."
Me: Well you are getting paid to work the phone, your company is going to sell this information to someone or you would not be at that phone. I am willing to supply my information, how much are you going to pay me for it? *blink, blink*, smiling.
To be totally effective at this again, this must be said in the most cheerful happy voice you have. I don't have much of one, but the results are worth it.
PP: (Brain vapor lock has occurred) "Thank you for your time Sir".
Me: Have a nice day!
What's fun is to see how long they want to play the game!
Oh, its fun too!
Phone person (PP): "Hello Sir we are conducting a survey in your area and would like to ask you a few questions."
Me: I would be more than happy to do so, what is the remuneration for my information (you must say this really, really happy like to be totally effective)?
PP: "This will not take long, etc."
Me: Well you are getting paid to work the phone, your company is going to sell this information to someone or you would not be at that phone. I am willing to supply my information, how much are you going to pay me for it? *blink, blink*, smiling.
To be totally effective at this again, this must be said in the most cheerful happy voice you have. I don't have much of one, but the results are worth it.
PP: (Brain vapor lock has occurred) "Thank you for your time Sir".
Me: Have a nice day!
What's fun is to see how long they want to play the game!
Monday, July 16, 2012
Generators?
Can anyone offer some advice? I acquired one of these:
To wire into this:
To leave me an outlet here:
Leave the landscaping (or lack of) comments to yourself please. I'm not good at it!
That I can plug a portable generator into. After researching the NEC (Article 702):
"Optional Installation of Fuel Fired Generators for
Emergency and Standby Power Supply Systems for
One and Two Family Dwellings", we are cool.
So now the problem is what generator.
I have researched the Briggs and Stratton, the GENERAC, and the Powermate.
The B&S model motive power is made in China, but has an extensive warrenty network. The GENERAC is made in WI, but apparently warranty and customer service sucks. Maybe that will change now given the current political climate in that state, but I don't want to find out the hard way.
The Powermate is powered by a Honda engine (gasoline).
I am leaning toward it just because of the motive power. It is the Powermate PM0497000.
Some previously noted that Diesel is more widely available during SHTF stuff, but I have a reserve of fuel:
These will be good for at least 30 gallons of gasoline if need be.
OTOH, there is more madness in my method. I am trying to get a modular detached garage in the back yard. I need to recover these:
1967 Cadillac De Ville Convertible, driven into a secure storage location under its own power back in 1988. Not moved since. For the sharp eyed people yep, that is a Firebird behind it. It was my Grandmother's. I guess I get it honestly!
The other car? The same:
A TRUE 1964 and half Mustang.
My intent is to retrive them and stick them in the new garage. Then get them back on the road. I don't want to replace the breaker panel in the house just to power it. I can use the generator. Excersises the generator as well.
Anyone have any thoughts on gensets?
To wire into this:
To leave me an outlet here:
Leave the landscaping (or lack of) comments to yourself please. I'm not good at it!
That I can plug a portable generator into. After researching the NEC (Article 702):
"Optional Installation of Fuel Fired Generators for
Emergency and Standby Power Supply Systems for
One and Two Family Dwellings", we are cool.
So now the problem is what generator.
I have researched the Briggs and Stratton, the GENERAC, and the Powermate.
The B&S model motive power is made in China, but has an extensive warrenty network. The GENERAC is made in WI, but apparently warranty and customer service sucks. Maybe that will change now given the current political climate in that state, but I don't want to find out the hard way.
The Powermate is powered by a Honda engine (gasoline).
I am leaning toward it just because of the motive power. It is the Powermate PM0497000.
Some previously noted that Diesel is more widely available during SHTF stuff, but I have a reserve of fuel:
These will be good for at least 30 gallons of gasoline if need be.
OTOH, there is more madness in my method. I am trying to get a modular detached garage in the back yard. I need to recover these:
1967 Cadillac De Ville Convertible, driven into a secure storage location under its own power back in 1988. Not moved since. For the sharp eyed people yep, that is a Firebird behind it. It was my Grandmother's. I guess I get it honestly!
The other car? The same:
A TRUE 1964 and half Mustang.
My intent is to retrive them and stick them in the new garage. Then get them back on the road. I don't want to replace the breaker panel in the house just to power it. I can use the generator. Excersises the generator as well.
Anyone have any thoughts on gensets?
Saturday, July 14, 2012
Retro Sunday. Twilight Zone: "Two"
Here is Charles Bronson and Elisabeth Montgomery as survivors of an apocalyptic war before they became all of that.
I remember watching this right before I got the test pattern sleeping on a lawn chair in my Uncles house.
I remember watching this right before I got the test pattern sleeping on a lawn chair in my Uncles house.
Random Saturday Stuff
So I go to the range today fully expecting to shoot the S&W 4006. Did not happen. First up a range Pistol.
Colt Walther 1911 Rail Gun in .22 caliber is sporting a broken slide stop. Sigh....
Previous students from Concealed and Basic pistol came and went all day. One of them presented me with this:
Sigh.... They reported failure to feed, failure to fire, and the magazine falling out. My first response in my head is "yeah and your point is?" New HiPoint. I do not understand how the carbines work well and these, not so much. Anywho, it might just be the fact it needs cleaning and some lube.
On the way home I stop by the local Stop and Rob for some adult fermented beverages. I notice to the left of me in the parking lot a black Honda civic with two attractive females in it. The one on the passenger side appears to be in her mid forties and looks pretty hot. The one driving is much younger. The one on the passenger side is smiling at me as I get out of the car. I smile back. I am open carrying and as I get out of the car she sees it. When I get back from the store they are still there. Now, I get into a bit of "oh crap" awareness. The passenger window goes down on the Honda and they are parked next to me. The first words out of her mouth sorta help to put me at ease.
The driver is not coming out of the car, nor is anyone else approaching after a quick 360 assessment. "Is that a 9 or a 40" she asks. I tell her a 9 and she immediately tells me her Daughter (driving) and her are going to get their concealed carry permits because her Husband has one (I die a bit inside on hearing that). They say they are members of a local Pistol and Rifle club and we continue to chat. They were not aware of my home range and told them I will be teaching CCH next Sunday.
Both comment on the "cool rig and awesome holster". I have to agree. It is awesome if I say so myself:
I give them one of Michael's cards and one of mine. The Mother notes that the stitching matches the Pistol. She thought that was "cool as hell".
They leave and perhaps I will see them next week in Concealed Carry class.How cool is it I can have someone asking the caliber of my Pistol in the parking lot of a store? We are winning. The clerk in the store tells me that many have asked if I am a Cop. His standard joke now is "I did not sell Cigarettes to the underage person! Don't shoot!". He also says here have a Hot Dog and stick around. I don't. Open carry without active retention on the Holster is something to be aware of.
I retreat to the Fortress of Solitude and perhaps I can shoot the 4006 tomorrow.
Previous students from Concealed and Basic pistol came and went all day. One of them presented me with this:
Sigh.... They reported failure to feed, failure to fire, and the magazine falling out. My first response in my head is "yeah and your point is?" New HiPoint. I do not understand how the carbines work well and these, not so much. Anywho, it might just be the fact it needs cleaning and some lube.
On the way home I stop by the local Stop and Rob for some adult fermented beverages. I notice to the left of me in the parking lot a black Honda civic with two attractive females in it. The one on the passenger side appears to be in her mid forties and looks pretty hot. The one driving is much younger. The one on the passenger side is smiling at me as I get out of the car. I smile back. I am open carrying and as I get out of the car she sees it. When I get back from the store they are still there. Now, I get into a bit of "oh crap" awareness. The passenger window goes down on the Honda and they are parked next to me. The first words out of her mouth sorta help to put me at ease.
The driver is not coming out of the car, nor is anyone else approaching after a quick 360 assessment. "Is that a 9 or a 40" she asks. I tell her a 9 and she immediately tells me her Daughter (driving) and her are going to get their concealed carry permits because her Husband has one (I die a bit inside on hearing that). They say they are members of a local Pistol and Rifle club and we continue to chat. They were not aware of my home range and told them I will be teaching CCH next Sunday.
Both comment on the "cool rig and awesome holster". I have to agree. It is awesome if I say so myself:
I give them one of Michael's cards and one of mine. The Mother notes that the stitching matches the Pistol. She thought that was "cool as hell".
They leave and perhaps I will see them next week in Concealed Carry class.How cool is it I can have someone asking the caliber of my Pistol in the parking lot of a store? We are winning. The clerk in the store tells me that many have asked if I am a Cop. His standard joke now is "I did not sell Cigarettes to the underage person! Don't shoot!". He also says here have a Hot Dog and stick around. I don't. Open carry without active retention on the Holster is something to be aware of.
I retreat to the Fortress of Solitude and perhaps I can shoot the 4006 tomorrow.
Friday, July 13, 2012
A long month...
I work in a manufacturing facility. The spaces where the manufacturing is done is not air conditioned. As is normal this time of year, the temperature wrecks havoc on equipment and personnel. We have had several incidents resulting in bad product. Some to be blamed on equipment, some to be blamed on human error, some a little of both. Phone calls, e-mails and verbal conversations taking place in frustration, anger, and in less than hospitable conditions leads to less than constructive solutions shall we say.
It has been an exhausting month at work. I come to stately manor and find this in the Mailbox.
A new book:
I dove right into it. I have all of the technical stuff on BB-55,
been on the decks and into the engineering spaces. The machine itself is fascinating, but this book speaks more of the persons that brought it to life.
Whenever I think I have had a bad day at work, my new point of reference is now this:
Helps to keep things in perspective.
I had a painting commissioned of the USS North Carolina (not the boat currently in service). She is in Texas and we went back and forth about this, that, and the other thing. I wanted both Kingfisher aircraft on the catapults at the stern. I wanted the "bedspring" radar on the main mast. She did a wonderful job and no matter what I do with lighting to get a picture of it, it does not do it justice.
I hope everyone has a great weekend. For me? One on one training for some students Sunday. Tomorrow we are going to give this a workout:
I will let you know how it goes with this Model 4006! I personally think the .40 Cal S&W cartridge was a solution in search of a problem, but that's just me.
It has been an exhausting month at work. I come to stately manor and find this in the Mailbox.
A new book:
I dove right into it. I have all of the technical stuff on BB-55,
been on the decks and into the engineering spaces. The machine itself is fascinating, but this book speaks more of the persons that brought it to life.
Whenever I think I have had a bad day at work, my new point of reference is now this:
Helps to keep things in perspective.
I had a painting commissioned of the USS North Carolina (not the boat currently in service). She is in Texas and we went back and forth about this, that, and the other thing. I wanted both Kingfisher aircraft on the catapults at the stern. I wanted the "bedspring" radar on the main mast. She did a wonderful job and no matter what I do with lighting to get a picture of it, it does not do it justice.
I hope everyone has a great weekend. For me? One on one training for some students Sunday. Tomorrow we are going to give this a workout:
I will let you know how it goes with this Model 4006! I personally think the .40 Cal S&W cartridge was a solution in search of a problem, but that's just me.
Wednesday, July 11, 2012
Some things never change....
The Stevens Point Journal (Wisconsin) September 9, 1891, says: ".... It is loaded with buckshot and scatters like a charge of bribery fired into a California legislature."
Heh..... Reminds me of this American Side by Side. I want one. I could have declared it hopeless and made an offer but I will never do that. The short term gain would not offset the loss of good will. I do belive that what goes around comes around. It may take longer than you have, but still.
I loved the quote.
Good Advise!
From Way up North we get these words of wisdom:
Thanks Shepard! I appreciate the fact you offer good advise. You do so in other matters as well. Quite the disparate Flock here you have Sir, I appreciate the gumption, style, and grace you present in this space.
Thanks Shepard! I appreciate the fact you offer good advise. You do so in other matters as well. Quite the disparate Flock here you have Sir, I appreciate the gumption, style, and grace you present in this space.
Tuesday, July 10, 2012
I never saw this coming!
Oh, say about *cough, cough* 20 some years ago, my first project with my employer was this:
A Reliance PLC to run 4 manufacturing tanks and 3 storage tanks. Back then It looked a lot cleaner, but as the years progressed 7 more tanks were added and Ethernet was not yet on the plant floor then. We added all of that and now as I am buying parts off of Ebay to keep it running, I channel Mr. Scott now: "She's bypassed like a Christmas tree Cap'n don't give me too many bumps".
The best in operator workstations as well, circa 1990:
These Nematron's have served well, but text based and running a modified version of.....wait for it.... BASIC!
So telling people that you are going to shut them down for oh three weeks or so seems to make them have kittens or some such. We are doing everything we can to minimize the down time:
New operator workstation already installed.
New PLC being tested and programming started:
The other problem is that some critical functions must be maintained during the down time. I do not have this option:
The essential stuff can be handled with one of these though:
Even with all the steps we can take now I know that this thing better be working during the changeover:
It's not going to be pretty. I honestly thought that this project would be someones else's problem. I did not think I would still be here. But I am so let the games begin!
+1 to the previous commenter on AB stuff that said: "You can buy better but you can't pay more"! Stuff works though. Most of the time. We have come a long way for better or worse. Used to be the latest software was on a Floppy. If you don't have an Internet connection now, you are toast. Sigh.....
A Reliance PLC to run 4 manufacturing tanks and 3 storage tanks. Back then It looked a lot cleaner, but as the years progressed 7 more tanks were added and Ethernet was not yet on the plant floor then. We added all of that and now as I am buying parts off of Ebay to keep it running, I channel Mr. Scott now: "She's bypassed like a Christmas tree Cap'n don't give me too many bumps".
The best in operator workstations as well, circa 1990:
These Nematron's have served well, but text based and running a modified version of.....wait for it.... BASIC!
So telling people that you are going to shut them down for oh three weeks or so seems to make them have kittens or some such. We are doing everything we can to minimize the down time:
New operator workstation already installed.
New PLC being tested and programming started:
The other problem is that some critical functions must be maintained during the down time. I do not have this option:
The essential stuff can be handled with one of these though:
Even with all the steps we can take now I know that this thing better be working during the changeover:
It's not going to be pretty. I honestly thought that this project would be someones else's problem. I did not think I would still be here. But I am so let the games begin!
+1 to the previous commenter on AB stuff that said: "You can buy better but you can't pay more"! Stuff works though. Most of the time. We have come a long way for better or worse. Used to be the latest software was on a Floppy. If you don't have an Internet connection now, you are toast. Sigh.....
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