Yesterday was buy-a-gun day and I had to postpone as it was also my anniversary. My wife does not love guns and roses, and if I had walked throught that door with a shiny new firearm then she would have certainly shown me hers.
Either way, she has given me the green light to buy a wannabee AK, so that is in my very near future.
Wednesday, April 16, 2008
Jimmy sucks
Really. I don't have much time today so I'll direct you over to The Liberty Zone for some good ol' Jimmy Carter bashing.
Tuesday, April 15, 2008
Desperation and effective armed resistance
From someone who was there. Marek Edelman is a Jewish doctor who lead part of the uprising in the Warsaw Ghetto against the nazi army.
When the nazis started to take away the Jews, Edelman and a couple hundred others took up what arms they could find and fought back. Who were these brave individuals:
Boys and girls fought off a professional army of well equipped nazi soldiers with no training and few weapons.
Courage and bravery like this are hard to find these days.
Some claim that there is no way that American citizens could ever resist the might of the US military, but they don't have a clue as to what armed resistance is, or what the stakes are:
How could the entire US military, scattered across the globe, and engaged in "the long war," engage its own citizens in a drawn out war on its own soil, within its own cities, and without many of the resources that it counts on to win in a non-linear war? It's not like every Serviceman could just come back to the US and fight their own people. Who would watch the interests of the country abroad? How many would throw down their chevrons and join the other side?
The Army could not call in an airstrike onto a townhouse in downtown Chicago because they couldn't knock out that determined shooter, nor could they fire a 120mm HE round from the main gun on a M1A1 into the top floor of a condo in Myrtle Beach because some good ol' boy was busy picking them off one-by-one with his grandpappy's Springfield 03. Get that out of your head.
There are an estimated 80 million gun owners in the US, and the total number of personnel in the US armed forces stands at around 1.5 million active, and about the same for reserves. If 220 starving Jews could hold back Hitler's finest by fighting with pistols and pitchforks, then the American people could surely destroy any government resistance to the last man; thus ensuring that the reins of power stay where they belong.
Anyone who says otherwise needs a history lesson.
When the nazis started to take away the Jews, Edelman and a couple hundred others took up what arms they could find and fought back. Who were these brave individuals:
"I remember them all — boys and girls — 220 altogether, not too many to remember their faces, their names,"
Boys and girls fought off a professional army of well equipped nazi soldiers with no training and few weapons.
Several hundred young Jews took up arms in defense of the civilians — the first act of large-scale armed civilian resistance against the Germans in occupied Poland during World War II.
His fighters, between the ages of 13 and 22, scraped together guns and ammunition that they and the Polish resistance managed to smuggle in from the outside.
Courage and bravery like this are hard to find these days.
"Every moment was difficult. It was two or three or 10 boys fighting with an army," Edelman said. "There were no easy moments."
But they were outnumbered and outgunned.
"It lasted for three weeks, so this great German army could not cope so easily with those 220 boys and girls," he said with a grain of pride.There are fellow citizens among us that scoff at the idea of effective armed resistance. This man says otherwise.
Some claim that there is no way that American citizens could ever resist the might of the US military, but they don't have a clue as to what armed resistance is, or what the stakes are:
"How we burned in the prison camps later thinking: What would things have been like if every police operative, when he went out at night to make an arrest, had been uncertain whether he would return alive? If during periods of mass arrests people had not simply sat there in their lairs, paling with terror at every bang of the downstairs door and at every step on the staircase, but had understood they had nothing to lose and had boldly set up in the downstairs hall an ambush of half a dozen people with axes, hammers, pokers, or whatever was at hand? The organs would very quickly have suffered a shortage of officers and, notwithstanding all of Stalin's thirst, the cursed machine would have ground to a halt."— Alexander Solzhenitsyn, Nobel Prize winner and author of The Gulag Archipelago, who spent 11 years in Soviet concentration camps.
How could the entire US military, scattered across the globe, and engaged in "the long war," engage its own citizens in a drawn out war on its own soil, within its own cities, and without many of the resources that it counts on to win in a non-linear war? It's not like every Serviceman could just come back to the US and fight their own people. Who would watch the interests of the country abroad? How many would throw down their chevrons and join the other side?
The Army could not call in an airstrike onto a townhouse in downtown Chicago because they couldn't knock out that determined shooter, nor could they fire a 120mm HE round from the main gun on a M1A1 into the top floor of a condo in Myrtle Beach because some good ol' boy was busy picking them off one-by-one with his grandpappy's Springfield 03. Get that out of your head.
There are an estimated 80 million gun owners in the US, and the total number of personnel in the US armed forces stands at around 1.5 million active, and about the same for reserves. If 220 starving Jews could hold back Hitler's finest by fighting with pistols and pitchforks, then the American people could surely destroy any government resistance to the last man; thus ensuring that the reins of power stay where they belong.
Anyone who says otherwise needs a history lesson.
A storm brewing
In Pennsylvania. This story is about gun rights in Pennsylvania, and how there will be a showdown between political candidates tomorrow.
They give Paul Helmke from the Brady Campaign to Prevent Gun Ownership a sound bite, but no retort from the gun rights side was printed. Typical.
There was some mention of the Heller case, and how that effects the political climate. Absent throughout the article was any mention of Philadelphia's Mayor, Michael Nutter, defying Pennsylvania law by passing anti-gun laws.
I may actually watch tomorrow's debate just to see those two idiots impale themselves on gun control. It's not like they can hide it now.
They give Paul Helmke from the Brady Campaign to Prevent Gun Ownership a sound bite, but no retort from the gun rights side was printed. Typical.
There was some mention of the Heller case, and how that effects the political climate. Absent throughout the article was any mention of Philadelphia's Mayor, Michael Nutter, defying Pennsylvania law by passing anti-gun laws.
I may actually watch tomorrow's debate just to see those two idiots impale themselves on gun control. It's not like they can hide it now.
Wal-Mart Boycott
This is unacceptable. I originally found out about this over at Sebastian's blog, and he now has a link provided to tell Wal-Mart where they can stick their new surveillance program.
Wal-Mart no longer sells firearms in my area, and I used to buy 98% of my ammo there, as well as other things like targets, air guns and groceries, but no more. As a matter of fact, I purchased my first firearm, a Mossberg 500 12 gauge, there when I turned 18.
This afternoon I will send a nasty-gram letting them know that I will also be buying groceries elsewhere. I will just have to start mail ordering my ammo from now on.
Wal-Mart no longer sells firearms in my area, and I used to buy 98% of my ammo there, as well as other things like targets, air guns and groceries, but no more. As a matter of fact, I purchased my first firearm, a Mossberg 500 12 gauge, there when I turned 18.
This afternoon I will send a nasty-gram letting them know that I will also be buying groceries elsewhere. I will just have to start mail ordering my ammo from now on.
Death by hands and feet
A fistfight led to the death of a 22 year old man. No weapons, other than the God given flesh covered ones, were involved.
In Hollywood, fistfights only result in bloody lips and bruised egos. Here in the really real world we know that hitting people is not good because of the potential to maim or kill a fellow human. Should we register everyones hands and feet?
My point in all of this is that mankind is born with the tools to kill, and the carrying of a more effective tool to offset this threat does not turn otherwise good people into killers, nor does it "give" verbal altercations the chance to be lethal; that potential is always there.
Here's another example.
In Hollywood, fistfights only result in bloody lips and bruised egos. Here in the really real world we know that hitting people is not good because of the potential to maim or kill a fellow human. Should we register everyones hands and feet?
My point in all of this is that mankind is born with the tools to kill, and the carrying of a more effective tool to offset this threat does not turn otherwise good people into killers, nor does it "give" verbal altercations the chance to be lethal; that potential is always there.
Here's another example.
Monday, April 14, 2008
Dirty dancing
In the capital of the greatest nation on earth...that would be DC (don't laugh), the city that bears George Wahington's name, a fellow patriot was arrested for the crime of...dancing. Yes, dancing.
This heinous crime was carried out on the steps of the..wait for it...Thomas Jefferson Memorial!
The story brought to you by: Liberty Is My Homie, who was an eye witness. Read it.
Remember what I said about terrorist chopping ninja's who don't have terrorists to chop? When you can't enjoy your freedoms on the steps of the Thomas Jefferson Memorial without arrest by armed state agents, in the Land of the Free, at its freakin capital, then we are on the brink of an all out police state...if we're not already there.
This heinous crime was carried out on the steps of the..wait for it...Thomas Jefferson Memorial!
The story brought to you by: Liberty Is My Homie, who was an eye witness. Read it.
Remember what I said about terrorist chopping ninja's who don't have terrorists to chop? When you can't enjoy your freedoms on the steps of the Thomas Jefferson Memorial without arrest by armed state agents, in the Land of the Free, at its freakin capital, then we are on the brink of an all out police state...if we're not already there.
Great Quotes II
From Sharp as a Marble in response to Senator Obama's absurd comment:
That's funny!
I'm in a bitter mood. I'm going to go hump my gun while I read Leviticus. I'm tired of getting hoodwinked.
That's funny!
The tale of two elitists
Here at Legions Fate, I avoid posting on the political clown show that is the current presidential race, but this is definitely worth mentioning.
Senator Obama sticks his foot in his mouth by basically saying that gun owners are bitter, and then Senator Clinton tries to pin him for being anti-gun, and then Senator Obama criticizes her for acting pro-gun.
Both of these fools are as anti-gun as it gets. Don't fall prey to their petty Jedi mind tricks.
Not to leave anyone out; lets not forget the anti-gun track record of Senator John McCain either.
Senator Obama sticks his foot in his mouth by basically saying that gun owners are bitter, and then Senator Clinton tries to pin him for being anti-gun, and then Senator Obama criticizes her for acting pro-gun.
Both of these fools are as anti-gun as it gets. Don't fall prey to their petty Jedi mind tricks.
Not to leave anyone out; lets not forget the anti-gun track record of Senator John McCain either.
Serial bank robber?
They're giving away free money in DC now, too! Is this a trend? Hey, they're just creating their own power trip!
Look at the robber's picture. How the hell do you not notice this guy?
So why is Flavor Flav robbing banks? This is going to continue until someone shows these guys that taking what is not yours is unacceptable.
Look at the robber's picture. How the hell do you not notice this guy?
Authorities said they involved a 45-to-50-year-old black man who stands 5 feet 1 inches to 5 feet 3 inches tall, weighs 115 to 120 pounds, and has a light to medium complexion and a series of scars on the left side of his face. He is known to wear a dark suit and tie of a black, puffy coat with dark pants. He also has worn sunglasses.
So why is Flavor Flav robbing banks? This is going to continue until someone shows these guys that taking what is not yours is unacceptable.
More Virginia citizens are armed
More than 44,000 concealed handgun permits were issued in 2007, and over 4,000 have been issued since February of this year.
Phillip Van Cleave of the Virginia Citizens Defense League (VCDL) was mentioned in an article about this great phenomina that is surprisingly void of hysterics. It's here at VCDL's new blog, The Sentinel, go take a look.
Phillip Van Cleave of the Virginia Citizens Defense League (VCDL) was mentioned in an article about this great phenomina that is surprisingly void of hysterics. It's here at VCDL's new blog, The Sentinel, go take a look.
Saturday, April 12, 2008
Movie Guns III
This week's post is on the movie Shooter, staring Mark Wahlberg, who plays the character Bob Swagger. I have not had the pleasure of reading the book "Point of Impact" by Steven Hunter, of which the movie is based on. I have heard that the book is better.
The movie is about a Marine Corps sniper who is set up by some shady contractors as the shooter in the assassination of the Ethiopian archbishop. There are some really cool weapons in this movie, and I decided to post some of them for your viewing pleasure.
The first guns shown in the movie is the USMC M40M3 in what would be 7.62x51mm NATO, wearing a Unertl 10x power scope.
In the background you can see the spotter with an M4 with mounted M203 grenade launcher with an Aimpoint CompM4.
I'm not sure who's bright idea it was to put two alleged Marines in U.S. Army ACU's (Army Combat Uniform), nor do I know whom it offends more; Army Soldiers or Marines.
I do believe that the reason the spotter is carrying an M4 instead of an M14, or at least an M16, considering they are snipers, is because they are also toting a Barrett M107 chambered in .50 BMG which is wearing Nightforce optics.
There are two interesting things about the scene where they are under attack from the gunship. First is that the snipers both engage the gunship with their rifles until the spotter gets killed, at which point Swagger picks up the Barrett. Why not use the Barrett first?
The second thing is that Swagger hand cycles the action of the Barrett for every shot. I would think that the reason is because that blanks probably do not have the oomph to cycle the bolt. You can clearly see the case stuck in the breech before he racks the round home.
Next up we have a beautiful Cheytac M200 Intervention chambered in .408 Cheytac with a Leupold Mark 4 ER/T M1.
Of note is that the minute marks on the optic are spray painted with the rest of the rifle, as are all of the other minute marks throughout the movie. I don't believe this to be SOP, but if there are any real shooters out there who are in-the-know, please leave me a comment.
Just a couple of feet from the muzzle in this picture is a large dog that would surely be deaf from the blast, if real cartridges were being fired.
Up next is an unknown type of .22 caliber rifle with a homemade suppressor. Once again, if anyone knows what type of rifle this is from the profile, I would love to know.
I found this to be pretty cool. Swagger and an FBI agent are making pipe bombs, and he is using IMR-4350 to fill them.
The next gun that I captured from the film is in the hands of this...operator? I hate that word.
It is an H&K G36, which as we all know makes him a super pimp, bad ass! Because...like...it's an H&K, and it like totally rocks, and everyone that wields one is a stone cold, super ninja!
Is it me, or is it getting all tactical up in this piece?
Too bad this guy becomes fixed blade fodder shortly after this frame by falling victim to Swagger's knife, which is also interesting because the guy dies almost immediately after being stabbed in the kidney. Ahh, realism.
On to the next! What we have here is Swagger shooting an M4 with an Aimpoint CompM4.
Right before this frame, Swagger is running with this M4 and decides to change magazines. It appears that he drops the magazine, re-seats it, and then racks the charging handle, at which point you can see a cartridge fly from the ejection port. Ooops.
He is also firing on auto when you can see that the selector is on semi-auto. I know, it's a movie and all, but I have an eye for these things.
Also, check out that muzzle flash! That is definitely not an A2 flash hider. I have heard that blanks make lots of flash so that the viewers can tell when the weapon is being fired.
Notice anything unusual about the brass being ejected? It's definitely a blank. Also, you can see the spray painted Leupold with the covered minute marks. Strange.
Another gun that came up towards the end of the movie is this gaudy Beretta 92F with chrome plating and pearl grips.
The gun has four rounds in it when it is used to gun down a bad guy who is played by Elias Koteas, who I have a hard time seeing as a strong character since I still picture him as Casey Jones from the movie Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles.
The movie is about a Marine Corps sniper who is set up by some shady contractors as the shooter in the assassination of the Ethiopian archbishop. There are some really cool weapons in this movie, and I decided to post some of them for your viewing pleasure.
The first guns shown in the movie is the USMC M40M3 in what would be 7.62x51mm NATO, wearing a Unertl 10x power scope.
In the background you can see the spotter with an M4 with mounted M203 grenade launcher with an Aimpoint CompM4.
I'm not sure who's bright idea it was to put two alleged Marines in U.S. Army ACU's (Army Combat Uniform), nor do I know whom it offends more; Army Soldiers or Marines.
I do believe that the reason the spotter is carrying an M4 instead of an M14, or at least an M16, considering they are snipers, is because they are also toting a Barrett M107 chambered in .50 BMG which is wearing Nightforce optics.
There are two interesting things about the scene where they are under attack from the gunship. First is that the snipers both engage the gunship with their rifles until the spotter gets killed, at which point Swagger picks up the Barrett. Why not use the Barrett first?
The second thing is that Swagger hand cycles the action of the Barrett for every shot. I would think that the reason is because that blanks probably do not have the oomph to cycle the bolt. You can clearly see the case stuck in the breech before he racks the round home.
Next up we have a beautiful Cheytac M200 Intervention chambered in .408 Cheytac with a Leupold Mark 4 ER/T M1.
Of note is that the minute marks on the optic are spray painted with the rest of the rifle, as are all of the other minute marks throughout the movie. I don't believe this to be SOP, but if there are any real shooters out there who are in-the-know, please leave me a comment.
Just a couple of feet from the muzzle in this picture is a large dog that would surely be deaf from the blast, if real cartridges were being fired.
Up next is an unknown type of .22 caliber rifle with a homemade suppressor. Once again, if anyone knows what type of rifle this is from the profile, I would love to know.
I found this to be pretty cool. Swagger and an FBI agent are making pipe bombs, and he is using IMR-4350 to fill them.
The next gun that I captured from the film is in the hands of this...operator? I hate that word.
It is an H&K G36, which as we all know makes him a super pimp, bad ass! Because...like...it's an H&K, and it like totally rocks, and everyone that wields one is a stone cold, super ninja!
Is it me, or is it getting all tactical up in this piece?
Too bad this guy becomes fixed blade fodder shortly after this frame by falling victim to Swagger's knife, which is also interesting because the guy dies almost immediately after being stabbed in the kidney. Ahh, realism.
On to the next! What we have here is Swagger shooting an M4 with an Aimpoint CompM4.
Right before this frame, Swagger is running with this M4 and decides to change magazines. It appears that he drops the magazine, re-seats it, and then racks the charging handle, at which point you can see a cartridge fly from the ejection port. Ooops.
He is also firing on auto when you can see that the selector is on semi-auto. I know, it's a movie and all, but I have an eye for these things.
Also, check out that muzzle flash! That is definitely not an A2 flash hider. I have heard that blanks make lots of flash so that the viewers can tell when the weapon is being fired.
The rifle on the ground to the left and the rifle on Swaggers back are both Remington Model 700's chambered in .300 Winchester Magnum; a cartridge I love to shoot. 
Here's a close up.
Here's a close up.Notice anything unusual about the brass being ejected? It's definitely a blank. Also, you can see the spray painted Leupold with the covered minute marks. Strange.
Another gun that came up towards the end of the movie is this gaudy Beretta 92F with chrome plating and pearl grips.
The gun has four rounds in it when it is used to gun down a bad guy who is played by Elias Koteas, who I have a hard time seeing as a strong character since I still picture him as Casey Jones from the movie Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles.
He does well as a bad guy, mind you.
The last gun I have for you is an M1911A1 of some undetermined make. This gun is used to destroy the last of the bad guys, and is the last weapon used in the movie. Other than that, there is nothing special about it considering that you can't get a good look at it. 
That's all I've got. I'll have more next week!
That's all I've got. I'll have more next week!
Friday, April 11, 2008
.44 MOA at a mile with a .338!
Bad ass! I want one to hunt bears, because a mile is about as close as I want to get to one that's not behind bars.
Thursday, April 10, 2008
Stand and be judged
I have been thinking lately about the requirements to carry a concealed handgun, and there are so many things about it that I just don't like. It comes as no surprise to me that there is someone else that shares my resentment towards the whole "permit" system, AKA "CHP," "CHL," "CCW" etc.
Make no mistake; when your state, local or even federal government requires you to fill out paperwork, to be fingerprinted, to have your past life investigated, to be judged, rated or otherwise fondled by those who you have voted into office, then you are, in fact, asking for permission to exercise your right.
Now, I don't like the word "permit" either, but that's what came to mind when I walked away from the courthouse where I asked the county judge to grant me rights that I already had from the day I first drew breath. Not only that, but I had to prove that I had training to exercise this right, and had to pay a fee on top of that.
I often wonder at how we got to this point in our freedom minded society where we ask for things of which we don't need permission, pay fees for things inherited, and ask for judgment to be performed upon us to make us feel more qualified about ourselves. Peer review, it is not.
There are those who carry a firearm concealed with the lawful qualifier of the "CHP," and belittle those who lawfully open carry without the granting of a "license," as somehow their fellow man has deemed them to be superior by handing them a piece of paper. I grin in painful disdain at the very sight of these shiny things, which are sold in every gun magazine that I have ever picked up.
Somehow I can't help but to draw a parallel to many of the television shows where folks stand before a "panel of experts" and wait to be judged for their actions. Granted, they are not asking permission to exercise a right, and they're being judged for their previous actions vs. the chance of future actions, but it does highlight that they are looking to be held in higher esteem by those they find themselves inferior to.
I'm not knocking competitive spirit; I'm just pondering the idea that some feel that in order to be qualified at something, that that qualification has to be determined by someone better than themselves. Is this a self esteem issue?
In my eyes this goes along with the idea that only a cop "licensed and authorized by the state" shall be the only one professional enough to stop a criminal, as if we are all too stupid to accurately determine if our life or limb is in danger of being destroyed by some scumbag.
Remember the spin the media put on the story where Jeanne Assam gunned down a goblin in a church? Apparently she was "qualified" by being a "security guard" with a "license" to have a handgun for protection in order to lawfully engage in a firefight with the man. Good thing she was predetermined to not be crazy so that she could use her right!
We "license" police to attend to society's protection without interruption, and to that end we hold them accountable -- thought not so much these days -- for actions against individuals within the community to ensure that rights are protected, but I am under the firm belief that it is every one's duty to protect his or her community.
This is not to say that everyone in society should be a vigilante, but that everyone should be vigilant. We should intervene when it is morally right to do so, up to and including righteously gunning down a scumbag with accurate fire from defilade, in support law enforcement. To force a citizen to prove themselves worthy of this right by obtaining a permit or license beforehand is madness.
Licensing for many careers is often a laughable idea that often causes unknowing folks to be less cautious when choosing a person or business to perform a service.
In a past life I was an electrician. I am very well trained, with both formal school education and "on the job training" with two of the most professional master electricians I have ever met, and they taught me how to do quality work.
Now that I'm out of the business, it's almost embarrassing to see the terrible work performed by many of the popular "licensed" electrical companies when I do fix-it work around my house or a friends.
However did the Egyptians survive without "titled" interior designers?
Licensing sets the bar at a fixed point, and has no bearing whatsoever on the quality of the task performed, nor the principals or integrity of the person who holds it. The individual can change his or her mind at any time, and there is nothing that prior restraint is going to do to stop it.
That people who carry a concealed weapon for protection do not start blasting into crowds of innocents has nothing to do with being licensed by a judge, or shielded by these shiny things, it is because that virtually all of them have no desire to hurt their fellow man.
We need to cast out this mindset that we are all incapable of protecting or providing for ourselves unless someone better than us says we may.
Make no mistake; when your state, local or even federal government requires you to fill out paperwork, to be fingerprinted, to have your past life investigated, to be judged, rated or otherwise fondled by those who you have voted into office, then you are, in fact, asking for permission to exercise your right.
Now, I don't like the word "permit" either, but that's what came to mind when I walked away from the courthouse where I asked the county judge to grant me rights that I already had from the day I first drew breath. Not only that, but I had to prove that I had training to exercise this right, and had to pay a fee on top of that.
I often wonder at how we got to this point in our freedom minded society where we ask for things of which we don't need permission, pay fees for things inherited, and ask for judgment to be performed upon us to make us feel more qualified about ourselves. Peer review, it is not.
There are those who carry a firearm concealed with the lawful qualifier of the "CHP," and belittle those who lawfully open carry without the granting of a "license," as somehow their fellow man has deemed them to be superior by handing them a piece of paper. I grin in painful disdain at the very sight of these shiny things, which are sold in every gun magazine that I have ever picked up.
Somehow I can't help but to draw a parallel to many of the television shows where folks stand before a "panel of experts" and wait to be judged for their actions. Granted, they are not asking permission to exercise a right, and they're being judged for their previous actions vs. the chance of future actions, but it does highlight that they are looking to be held in higher esteem by those they find themselves inferior to.
I'm not knocking competitive spirit; I'm just pondering the idea that some feel that in order to be qualified at something, that that qualification has to be determined by someone better than themselves. Is this a self esteem issue?
In my eyes this goes along with the idea that only a cop "licensed and authorized by the state" shall be the only one professional enough to stop a criminal, as if we are all too stupid to accurately determine if our life or limb is in danger of being destroyed by some scumbag.
Remember the spin the media put on the story where Jeanne Assam gunned down a goblin in a church? Apparently she was "qualified" by being a "security guard" with a "license" to have a handgun for protection in order to lawfully engage in a firefight with the man. Good thing she was predetermined to not be crazy so that she could use her right!
We "license" police to attend to society's protection without interruption, and to that end we hold them accountable -- thought not so much these days -- for actions against individuals within the community to ensure that rights are protected, but I am under the firm belief that it is every one's duty to protect his or her community.
This is not to say that everyone in society should be a vigilante, but that everyone should be vigilant. We should intervene when it is morally right to do so, up to and including righteously gunning down a scumbag with accurate fire from defilade, in support law enforcement. To force a citizen to prove themselves worthy of this right by obtaining a permit or license beforehand is madness.
Licensing for many careers is often a laughable idea that often causes unknowing folks to be less cautious when choosing a person or business to perform a service.
In a past life I was an electrician. I am very well trained, with both formal school education and "on the job training" with two of the most professional master electricians I have ever met, and they taught me how to do quality work.
Now that I'm out of the business, it's almost embarrassing to see the terrible work performed by many of the popular "licensed" electrical companies when I do fix-it work around my house or a friends.
However did the Egyptians survive without "titled" interior designers?
Licensing sets the bar at a fixed point, and has no bearing whatsoever on the quality of the task performed, nor the principals or integrity of the person who holds it. The individual can change his or her mind at any time, and there is nothing that prior restraint is going to do to stop it.
That people who carry a concealed weapon for protection do not start blasting into crowds of innocents has nothing to do with being licensed by a judge, or shielded by these shiny things, it is because that virtually all of them have no desire to hurt their fellow man.
We need to cast out this mindset that we are all incapable of protecting or providing for ourselves unless someone better than us says we may.
TSA engineered negligent discharge
Found at SaysUncle: TSA "safety" rules led to the Federal Flight Deck Officer shooting a hole in his plane.
Update: DC robber dies
Original post here. New story here.
This is what will happen when DC's gun ban finally gets squashed by SCOTUS.
This is what will happen when DC's gun ban finally gets squashed by SCOTUS.
Shouldn't that be illegal?
Guns in schools I mean. There should be...like, a law or something, and maybe some signs so stuff like this will never happen.
Gang related? They must not have read the law. It clearly states that guns are not allowed into schools. And how did they not see this:
Why, it's almost like those little bastards have no respect for the law. We should make it more illegal so this definitely will not happen again, and maybe just do away with teachers altogether so there's no chance they will ever bring a gun to school!
Then nobody would dare bring a gun to a school; which is great, because the school staff is unarmed and totally helpless to stop an attack if anybody: a)went to the courthouse and read the law, b) made it past the signs and then c)decided to take a gun into the school anyways.
Glad we got that cleared up.
Apparently, even young criminals don't obey the law these days:
Three guns, at least one of which was stolen, and other weapons were found in a student's locker, police said.
Signs and laws didn't help? Weird!
The incident is believed to be gang related and likely related to friction between students that began at the end of last week, police said.
Gang related? They must not have read the law. It clearly states that guns are not allowed into schools. And how did they not see this:
Why, it's almost like those little bastards have no respect for the law. We should make it more illegal so this definitely will not happen again, and maybe just do away with teachers altogether so there's no chance they will ever bring a gun to school! Wal-Mart assault weapon
Man assaulted with a dangerous type of gun in a Wal-Mart, thus qualifying it as an "assault weapon."
Why doesn't he just use the "gun show loophole"
This guy is running around Va with a machete and robbing gas stations.
This being Va, sooner or later some 7-11 employee will ventilate his upper body with some well aimed .38's. Then people like this will get the message that this is unacceptable behaviour.
These lessons must be re-taught from time-to-time.
This being Va, sooner or later some 7-11 employee will ventilate his upper body with some well aimed .38's. Then people like this will get the message that this is unacceptable behaviour.
These lessons must be re-taught from time-to-time.
I can think of no worse
This is possibly THE worst way to die. You can count on OSHA conjuring up all sorts of new laws in the name of "safety" because of this freak accident.
Wednesday, April 9, 2008
Home Security
I found this link on The High Road and laughed out loud -- Does watching those ADT commercials make anyone else want to buy more guns? There's some good stuff in there, go and read.
I used to install security systems, and they're only good if used as a layer in your security, as these alarms will not deter most criminals and are easily defeated. A good, yappy dog and a firearm or three should also be included in the layers. Something I found interesting:
I used to install security systems, and they're only good if used as a layer in your security, as these alarms will not deter most criminals and are easily defeated. A good, yappy dog and a firearm or three should also be included in the layers. Something I found interesting:
Looks like one more good reason to keep a gun in the home.Link to the full article here: http://www.gazette.com/common/sectio...icle/&id=34952Here's what Colorado Springs police think about alarms
Our local paper, the Colorado Springs Gazette, recently had an article on the high percentage of false alarms for residential and business alarm systems. According to the article, there are so many false alarms that the police have lowered their priority in responding to alarms. Here's an excerpt:April 4, 2008 - 9:03PM THE GAZETTE
Of the 10,667 burglar alarms triggered at Colorado Springs homes and businesses last year, only 2 percent were legit.
For the other 10,454 alarms, cops made dry runs, burning time they could have been spent on real needs.
The problem of false alarms - caused by equipment malfunctions, poor installation or user error - is so great that in December, the department downgraded burglar-alarm responses in order of priority.
That means officers go to trespassing calls before they respond to burglar alarms.
Weak criminal laws
..in Connecticut gets a woman killed and another fighting for her life.
I suppose that instead of tightening up on criminals they will take the easy road and pass more gun laws in a lame attempt to stop these recently paroled violent felons from acquiring a firearm, which will stop crime in its tracks for sure.
This is not what I had in mind:
Three!! Are you kidding me?!! How about ONE, genious?!!
Fortunately here in Va they do a pretty good job of keeping scumbags locked up.
I suppose that instead of tightening up on criminals they will take the easy road and pass more gun laws in a lame attempt to stop these recently paroled violent felons from acquiring a firearm, which will stop crime in its tracks for sure.
This is not what I had in mind:
“The time for excuses and rationalization has passed,” Governor Rell said. “We need a law that says if you commit three violent offenses, you will be sent to prison for the rest of your life. Period. It is time for action.”
Three!! Are you kidding me?!! How about ONE, genious?!!
Fortunately here in Va they do a pretty good job of keeping scumbags locked up.
The Eye is upon you
Jeez, big brother at its finest, in DC no less. Of course this sort of anti-liberty idealism is conceved from the brain of a blatant socialist, DC's Mayor Fenty.
Your dose of stupid for the day:
"Hey Earl, them's terrorists are all hanging out at that there fish market again....you reckon we oughta call it in?"
"Nah, just keep an eye on um, they ain't hurtin nobody.."
As I've said before: terrorists are not around every corner! 5,000 cameras are just 5,000 more opportunities for government folks to monitor your every move on a daily basis.
Your dose of stupid for the day:
Fenty's plane would combine those surveillance programs into one to monitor terrorism and daily crime and concerns.
"Hey Earl, them's terrorists are all hanging out at that there fish market again....you reckon we oughta call it in?"
"Nah, just keep an eye on um, they ain't hurtin nobody.."
As I've said before: terrorists are not around every corner! 5,000 cameras are just 5,000 more opportunities for government folks to monitor your every move on a daily basis.
Robber shot by upstanding citizen in DC
Actually, no. It was an off duty DC cop.
Citizens in DC, according to the "public servants" who rule over the district, are too stupid and/or incompetent to determine that this scumbag was robbing a gas station under force, or threat thereof, so they would have never been able to intervene.
But DC cops are trained from birth to instantly determine a robbers proclivities, and are graciously given the rare privilege of carrying a death machine assault pistol to thwart the bad guys attempts to deprive a citizen of his or her property and life.
It's a good thing that the gas station owner did not posses one of these death machines or somebody may have gotten hurt.
Update: The bad guy died. So Sorry.
He didn't try to rob the gas station attendant; he instead tried to rob the off duty cop and got a chest full of holes for his trouble. Fortunately the victim was an "Only One" and was carrying his "service revolver," because if it had been one of DC's unarmed, unwashed proletariat the story would likely have been tragic.
Citizens in DC, according to the "public servants" who rule over the district, are too stupid and/or incompetent to determine that this scumbag was robbing a gas station under force, or threat thereof, so they would have never been able to intervene.
But DC cops are trained from birth to instantly determine a robbers proclivities, and are graciously given the rare privilege of carrying a death machine assault pistol to thwart the bad guys attempts to deprive a citizen of his or her property and life.
It's a good thing that the gas station owner did not posses one of these death machines or somebody may have gotten hurt.
Update: The bad guy died. So Sorry.
He didn't try to rob the gas station attendant; he instead tried to rob the off duty cop and got a chest full of holes for his trouble. Fortunately the victim was an "Only One" and was carrying his "service revolver," because if it had been one of DC's unarmed, unwashed proletariat the story would likely have been tragic.
Banks giving away free money!
This time in Arlington. What has happened to this country when some guy can walk into a mall dressed like he has SARS and then go into a bank and just say "give me the money." Look at the picture and ask yourself: how is it that nobody saw this guy and called security?
I mean suspicious doesn't even begin to describe him.
I understand that they advise tellers to use caution and not resist -- which I feel is not always the best policy -- but giving them all you have just because they tell you to is pretty stupid.
I mean suspicious doesn't even begin to describe him.
I understand that they advise tellers to use caution and not resist -- which I feel is not always the best policy -- but giving them all you have just because they tell you to is pretty stupid.
Tuesday, April 8, 2008
Assault with a deadly automobile
Man maims another guy with an SUV and is found guilty. An automobile is every bit as dangerous as a firearm, if not more so, and sometimes people will use anything within their grasp to kill others.
As David has often puts it: "Anyone who can't be trusted with a gun can't be trusted without a custodian." I agree.
Let's hope they put him away forever.
As David has often puts it: "Anyone who can't be trusted with a gun can't be trusted without a custodian." I agree.
Let's hope they put him away forever.
"Youth Violence Prevention" in DC
Apparently DC kids think it's whitey's fault that they can't stop killing each other:
I blame the NRA for giving away free guns to kids in DC out of a primered van. Next they will be pushing these into their little hands and whispering...kill...kill...kill...kill.
How about a little self reponsibility.
Adams said students offered reactions like "everybody does some bad," "you gotta roll before you get rolled" and "white folks give us the guns."
I blame the NRA for giving away free guns to kids in DC out of a primered van. Next they will be pushing these into their little hands and whispering...kill...kill...kill...kill.
How about a little self reponsibility.
Misappropriation of funds
How is it that the taxpayers owe money to the victims of a tragedy? I'm not trying to be cold hearted, but why do I have to pay?
If I get crippled by a drunk driver does the state owe me money just because? I'm confused here, will somebody please explain this to me?
Va Governor Tim Kaine is firmly behind this, and everyone knows that he's a socialist scumbag.
More here and here.
If I get crippled by a drunk driver does the state owe me money just because? I'm confused here, will somebody please explain this to me?
Va Governor Tim Kaine is firmly behind this, and everyone knows that he's a socialist scumbag.
More here and here.
Oops
Cop negligently shoots two teens.
Notice that the article tries to blunt the blame by saying that the cop didn't shoot them, "the gun discharged." Indeed.
Fortunately the kids survived. Will the cop be held accountable?
Notice that the article tries to blunt the blame by saying that the cop didn't shoot them, "the gun discharged." Indeed.
Fortunately the kids survived. Will the cop be held accountable?
Students sharpen their combat edge
George Mason University students spend the day at the range learning gun safety with NRA instructors.
Here's the video which shows students shooting, and a female student does a great job getting her point across about why they want to carry.
Good on them.
Here's the video which shows students shooting, and a female student does a great job getting her point across about why they want to carry.
Good on them.
Playing the game
I was tagged by SailerCurt for this meme. I've never participated in this sort of thing, but I appreciate the offer and I'm all about it so here it goes:
First the Rules:
1. Write your own six word memoir.
2. Post it on your blog and include a visual illustration if you want.
3. Link to the person that tagged you in your post and to the original post if possible so we can track it as it travels across the blogosphere.
4. Tag at least five more blogs with links.
5. Leave a comment on the tagged blogs with an invitation to play....
My Love, Purpose, Direction, and Hope...
I have tagged Paul, The Pawnbroker, Peter, The Smallest Minority, and The Armed Canadian. We'll see what happens.
I have tagged Paul, The Pawnbroker, Peter, The Smallest Minority, and The Armed Canadian. We'll see what happens.
Monday, April 7, 2008
DC gun grab stalled til June
The story here. My past posts here.
What truly made me recoil in astonishment was the comments made by Johnny Barnes of the ACLU in regards to other ways to get guns off the streets:
Gun buybacks aren't successful. They give out taxpayer money to elderly widows who turn in their late husbands war worn Colt 1911 without any idea of its value, or to gun dealers who know a deal when they see one and turn in several dozen broken $60 Lorcin handguns for a $250 return. How is it that a city can use citizens money to "buy back" something that they didn't own in the first place? I'm not the only one who thinks they're clown shows.
Indeed. The ACLU has never given one teeny little shit about the second amendment, which the citizens of DC have been deprived of for over 30 years. Where was the ACLU when gun owners needed them?
Yeah, because ACORN is all about protecting your Constitutional rights. Spare me any of your favors.
What truly made me recoil in astonishment was the comments made by Johnny Barnes of the ACLU in regards to other ways to get guns off the streets:
He cited the successful police-sponsored gun buyback program, in which residents bring guns to a designated place on a certain day and turn them in for money.
Gun buybacks aren't successful. They give out taxpayer money to elderly widows who turn in their late husbands war worn Colt 1911 without any idea of its value, or to gun dealers who know a deal when they see one and turn in several dozen broken $60 Lorcin handguns for a $250 return. How is it that a city can use citizens money to "buy back" something that they didn't own in the first place? I'm not the only one who thinks they're clown shows.
"Why do we have to put at risk our fundamental constitutional rights?" Barnes said of Safe Homes.
Indeed. The ACLU has never given one teeny little shit about the second amendment, which the citizens of DC have been deprived of for over 30 years. Where was the ACLU when gun owners needed them?
The ACLU is partnering with the community group ACORN and others to sponsor a training session that will educate people about their rights, he said.
Yeah, because ACORN is all about protecting your Constitutional rights. Spare me any of your favors.
Charlton Heston Dies
At the age of 84.
Bruce has some coverage. I've been out of town so I'm a little behind the power curve.
Bruce has some coverage. I've been out of town so I'm a little behind the power curve.
Friday, April 4, 2008
Gun hysteria from the Associated Press
Tim McGuire reports on the arrested man who "may have been on the verge" of a school massacre in Florida. There are all of the standard media lines of hysteria, like saying that the police confiscated a "cache" of guns (13 in all), "over five thousand rounds," and this gem:
Really? I didn't know that the gun blobby had pushed "armor piercing feeding clips" into the general population. They must be mailing them out by the thousands! Silly NRA, why would anyone need a feeding clip that can take out military machinery?
I don't believe one damn word that the media says anymore.
"100 rounds of ammunition loaded into a feeding clip that authorities say are meant to take down an aircraft or military machinery."
Really? I didn't know that the gun blobby had pushed "armor piercing feeding clips" into the general population. They must be mailing them out by the thousands! Silly NRA, why would anyone need a feeding clip that can take out military machinery?
I don't believe one damn word that the media says anymore.
Thursday, April 3, 2008
Teacher arrested on gun charges
Do you reckon she was a member of the NRA? Did she have one of those concealed handgun permits?
Ahh, no. This was in Kalifornia, and on school property, so apparently signs and laws did not help.
Ahh, no. This was in Kalifornia, and on school property, so apparently signs and laws did not help.
DC gun grab update
See past coverage here and here.
It seems that DC residents are not so naive after all. Good for them. Too bad DC Police Chief Cathy Lanier still tries to play everyone a fool:
I'm not defending people that neglect their children, but what the government considers "abuse or neglect" and "certain things that we just can't ignore" sounds equivocal to me, and I am a very skeptical person when it comes down to government honoring a citizens rights.
Think I'm crazy? What happens when the police show up for an "appointment" and they see your Japanese Maple grow operation?
Exactly.
Update: Check out the consent form. Nothing in there says anything about "certain things that we just can't ignore." Definitely unconstitutional.
Here is the brochure for the "Safe Homes Initiative." I find this interesting:
What else will they be "obligated" to seize? Perhaps disposable cameras? And this:
What they don't say is that "without risk of arrest" is cast aside if they see "certain things they just can't ignore" which could be almost anything they want.
When you let agents of the state who possess the power to seize and arrest into your house, you open doors that you just can't shut.
It seems that DC residents are not so naive after all. Good for them. Too bad DC Police Chief Cathy Lanier still tries to play everyone a fool:
The chief now says any searches would be done only by appointment unless there is an "urgent need,"Uh huh, and what exactly constitutes an "urgent need?" And my, my, how about that amnesty:
And you wonder why you have this:Amnesty will be granted for any gun possession charges but not for any crimes committed with that gun.
The chief said police also will be alert to child abuse or other social services issues that may require government follow up.
"If we go into a home and we see a case of severe abuse or neglect; I mean, there's certain things that we just can't ignore," Lanier said.
No shit.Since the program was announced weeks ago, it has been delayed in part because of fears citizens' rights will be violated.
I'm not defending people that neglect their children, but what the government considers "abuse or neglect" and "certain things that we just can't ignore" sounds equivocal to me, and I am a very skeptical person when it comes down to government honoring a citizens rights.
Think I'm crazy? What happens when the police show up for an "appointment" and they see your Japanese Maple grow operation?
Exactly.
Update: Check out the consent form. Nothing in there says anything about "certain things that we just can't ignore." Definitely unconstitutional.
Here is the brochure for the "Safe Homes Initiative." I find this interesting:
While the main objective of the program is to search for illegal weapons, if drugs or other illegal contraband are found in plain view in your home during a SafeHomes search, officers will be obligated to seize the items in question. You will not be prosecuted for any drugs found in your home.
What else will they be "obligated" to seize? Perhaps disposable cameras? And this:
By cooperating with police, you are doing an important service to your community. Your efforts will help put an end to violence by bringing criminals to justice.How will criminals be brought to justice if they are giving amnesty? More lies:
Parents or guardians will have the option to voluntarily allow their neighborhood foot
beat officers to enter their homes to conduct safety checks for weapons without risk of arrest.
What they don't say is that "without risk of arrest" is cast aside if they see "certain things they just can't ignore" which could be almost anything they want.
When you let agents of the state who possess the power to seize and arrest into your house, you open doors that you just can't shut.
Disposible cameras the new "assault weapons"
Apparently the Conneticut police "aren't buying it" when the accused 14 year old boy's father demonstrated how harmless the camera was. The reporter calls it a "weapon," with which the boy is being charged with attempted assault.
Absurd.
And Sgt Jeremiah Dunn of the Clinton Police Department is an idiot.
Absurd.
And Sgt Jeremiah Dunn of the Clinton Police Department is an idiot.
Dangerous colored assault tools on the rise
Since the hysterical anti-gun folks are shrieking about "colored guns meant to look like toys," as if gangbangers are going to send their $55 Bryco .25 Auto in to get a $200 Duracoat from Lauer Custom Weaponry, I decided to also point out the dangers of power tools meant to look like toys.
And turned them into assault drills!
Then they did the same thing with Power Saws!
And nail guns!
See, this is what normal power tools are supposed to look like:
But then, with the growing popularity of colored firearms, the power tool lobby decided to make things more colorfull in an attempt to boost sales:
And turned them into assault drills!
Then they did the same thing with Power Saws!
And nail guns!
Movie Guns II
I'm going to start posting movie guns weekly if I can. I watch lots of movies and I'm a critic when it comes down to accuracy. This week is mainly about the 1911, but since I was taking pictures from movies I decided to add a few more.
The first movie I went through was We Were Soldiers staring Mel Gibson. There were plenty of other great actors in it, one of which is Sam Elliot who wields a Colt M1911A1:
This hold serves no purpose whatsoever but is seen on just about every movie poster ever made. He does however keep his finger straight and off the trigger which Hollywood does not usually enforce, and he doesn't do the "cup-and-saucer" pistol hold that is also very common amongst the firearm uneducated, so I would say that this actor has handled a firearm before.
Next up we have the movie Major Payne. Damon Wayans fires his 1911 into the air to get his ROTC students under control:
There's not a whole lot to say about this movie. He is seen with the gun at the beginning of the movie but I can't recall him ever firing it until this scene
The last film I'm going to cover is Black Hawk Down. The two Delta Soldiers had Colt M1911A1's and used them in a big shootout in the middle of the movie:
Both eyes open and looking for a target, but every time he fires his eyes are closed. You see all kinds of poor shooting when you advance the film one frame at a time.
Here is a picture of the other guy firing his 1911. If you look closely, you can see the pistol's hammer is back but the gun appears to be firing. The muzzle flash was added after the scene was shot as there are many more places where you can see the pistol is at slide lock but he keeps firing anyhow.
You can only tell these things if your going frame by frame, when the film is running normally everything looks fine. The shootout looks really good at full speed.
For fun I threw in some extra guns from the film. A M14 with an Aimpoint on top looks cool, and I'm sure it's devastating in an urban environment if you don't have to clear rooms or tight spaces, but I would imagine that the rifles long range effectiveness is ruined. Just a thought.
Here is a Colt M4A2 with a fake suppressor attached. The rifle looks great with that Aimpoint on the carry handle but I'm not sure if that's a Surefire G2 Nitrolon mounted on the side. If it is, I doubt it existed back then. Also notice that he's not looking through the Aimpoint or the sight. I would say he has never fired a rifle before.
The last picture I have for you is the Heckler & Koch MP5 submachine gun that the injured pilot is fighting with. In his lap is a Colt M4A1 that belongs to the Delta Soldier above. The Soldier with the M14 gives it to the Pilot, but the funny part is that he isn't given the gun until about 10 seconds after this picture. I guess it is a movie mistake.
Also of note is the light on the M4 is taped to the forearm.
That's all I've got today. Enjoy.
The first movie I went through was We Were Soldiers staring Mel Gibson. There were plenty of other great actors in it, one of which is Sam Elliot who wields a Colt M1911A1:
I can usually pick out an actor who has had little gun handling skills in life, and I think Sam Elliot is one of them. Cocking a 1911 with your finger inside of the trigger guard is a big no-no. Also, as he's fighting with the pistol you can see that he's not really even aiming at the NVA soldiers that he "kills," he sometimes fires towards the ground.
The 1911 can be seen elsewhere in the movie, such as this "Hollywood High Ready" picture that is so common in film:
This hold serves no purpose whatsoever but is seen on just about every movie poster ever made. He does however keep his finger straight and off the trigger which Hollywood does not usually enforce, and he doesn't do the "cup-and-saucer" pistol hold that is also very common amongst the firearm uneducated, so I would say that this actor has handled a firearm before.
Next up we have the movie Major Payne. Damon Wayans fires his 1911 into the air to get his ROTC students under control:
There's not a whole lot to say about this movie. He is seen with the gun at the beginning of the movie but I can't recall him ever firing it until this scene
The last film I'm going to cover is Black Hawk Down. The two Delta Soldiers had Colt M1911A1's and used them in a big shootout in the middle of the movie:
Both eyes open and looking for a target, but every time he fires his eyes are closed. You see all kinds of poor shooting when you advance the film one frame at a time.
Here is a picture of the other guy firing his 1911. If you look closely, you can see the pistol's hammer is back but the gun appears to be firing. The muzzle flash was added after the scene was shot as there are many more places where you can see the pistol is at slide lock but he keeps firing anyhow.
You can only tell these things if your going frame by frame, when the film is running normally everything looks fine. The shootout looks really good at full speed.
For fun I threw in some extra guns from the film. A M14 with an Aimpoint on top looks cool, and I'm sure it's devastating in an urban environment if you don't have to clear rooms or tight spaces, but I would imagine that the rifles long range effectiveness is ruined. Just a thought.
Here is a Colt M4A2 with a fake suppressor attached. The rifle looks great with that Aimpoint on the carry handle but I'm not sure if that's a Surefire G2 Nitrolon mounted on the side. If it is, I doubt it existed back then. Also notice that he's not looking through the Aimpoint or the sight. I would say he has never fired a rifle before.
The last picture I have for you is the Heckler & Koch MP5 submachine gun that the injured pilot is fighting with. In his lap is a Colt M4A1 that belongs to the Delta Soldier above. The Soldier with the M14 gives it to the Pilot, but the funny part is that he isn't given the gun until about 10 seconds after this picture. I guess it is a movie mistake.
Also of note is the light on the M4 is taped to the forearm.
That's all I've got today. Enjoy.
Power Tripping
At least they're coming out and saying it. Click here to see a video clip of DC Mayor Fenty talk about DC's new slogan appropriately called "Create your own power trip." What an apposite slogan for the bureaucratic elite in Washington to create.
I'm just speachless.
Interesting quote from the clip:
So your supposed to create your own power trip, Eh? Hell, you didn't need a slogan to say that, these guys created their power trip years ago, complete with their own firepower!
Actually, I think firepower is the key to the slogan, because in order to "create your own power trip," you need to have a monopoly on the firepower.
Take Mayor Fenty for example. He created his power trip with help of the police who, with the exception of the gangs, have all of the firepower.
Hopefully the Heller case will bring about the destruction of the DC gun ban, giving the good citizens of DC the opportunity to have their own firepower, and thus their own power trip.
I'm just speachless.
Interesting quote from the clip:
"..four concepts including; that Washington is the seat of power, has soul power, can make a power play, and also has fire power.."
So your supposed to create your own power trip, Eh? Hell, you didn't need a slogan to say that, these guys created their power trip years ago, complete with their own firepower!
Actually, I think firepower is the key to the slogan, because in order to "create your own power trip," you need to have a monopoly on the firepower.
Take Mayor Fenty for example. He created his power trip with help of the police who, with the exception of the gangs, have all of the firepower.
Hopefully the Heller case will bring about the destruction of the DC gun ban, giving the good citizens of DC the opportunity to have their own firepower, and thus their own power trip.
Tuesday, April 1, 2008
What was really meant by "Keep and Bear Arms"
Via David at The War on Guns comes this excellent piece by Mr. Tim Case that outlines what it takes to really be prepared. Go read it.
Something noted in the article is how the components to reload ammunition can be traded if not needed. I completely agree, and also consider this a reason for owning an array of firearms. Not only does it give you a better chance of having a weapon that will chamber various ammunition that is readily available, it also gives you a durable good to trade for other items.
My Grandmother was a German immigrant that survived the fall of Berlin during WWII. Undoubtedly she kept many of the horrors that she endured to herself, but one of the things that she did speak of was that currency became useless overnight.
She described it as wheelbarrows full of cash pushed by starving citizens to the marketplace, only to be exchanged for a few scraps of meat or turned away altogether.
In order to survive she would trade various durable goods like a gold or jewelry for eggs and bread. Some of the bread would be traded for bacon or milk. I'm sure there were tools and supplies that were also valuable for trade, and firearms were probably on the top of the list.
So if you think that your American Express will save you if the SHTF, think again. A quality rifle can feed and protect your family for decades, but as Mr. Case pointed out, only if you keep it fed with ammunition and maintain proficiency.
Something noted in the article is how the components to reload ammunition can be traded if not needed. I completely agree, and also consider this a reason for owning an array of firearms. Not only does it give you a better chance of having a weapon that will chamber various ammunition that is readily available, it also gives you a durable good to trade for other items.
My Grandmother was a German immigrant that survived the fall of Berlin during WWII. Undoubtedly she kept many of the horrors that she endured to herself, but one of the things that she did speak of was that currency became useless overnight.
She described it as wheelbarrows full of cash pushed by starving citizens to the marketplace, only to be exchanged for a few scraps of meat or turned away altogether.
In order to survive she would trade various durable goods like a gold or jewelry for eggs and bread. Some of the bread would be traded for bacon or milk. I'm sure there were tools and supplies that were also valuable for trade, and firearms were probably on the top of the list.
So if you think that your American Express will save you if the SHTF, think again. A quality rifle can feed and protect your family for decades, but as Mr. Case pointed out, only if you keep it fed with ammunition and maintain proficiency.
Navy SEAL earns Medal of Honor
Petty Officer 2nd Class Michael A. Monsoor saved the lives of three fellow SEALs when he dropped onto a hand grenade that was thrown at him in Ramadi, Iraq. Without hesitation, he took the blast from the grenade which killed him and injured two of his friends.
His family will be presented with his Medal of Honor on April 8th.
Even the highest honor that our nation can bestow gives no justice to sacrifice such as this. May he rest in peace.
"He never took his eye off the grenade, his only movement was down toward it," said a 28-year-old lieutenant, who suffered shrapnel wounds to both legs that day. "He undoubtedly saved mine and the other SEALs' lives, and we owe him."
His family will be presented with his Medal of Honor on April 8th.
Even the highest honor that our nation can bestow gives no justice to sacrifice such as this. May he rest in peace.
Common sense from the Army
The Army decided to let married couples who are serving in combat live together.
I'm sure there are some who will find a way to abuse this but that is no reason to screw everyone else over. I can't see getting all excited about the possibility of romance in a combat zone; sand and sweat of that magnitude is not a turn on.
But hey, if it saves one marriage...
I'm sure there are some who will find a way to abuse this but that is no reason to screw everyone else over. I can't see getting all excited about the possibility of romance in a combat zone; sand and sweat of that magnitude is not a turn on.
But hey, if it saves one marriage...
Oklahoma campus carry stalls
My previous coverage here.
OK senators can't come up with an agreement. Not that the bill does me a whole lot of good. It allows veterans to carry on campus, which I don't agree with because I think that it is giving "privileges" to a class of citizens instead of freeing up a right to be exercised by all citizens in general.
Here is a dose of stupid for today:
So if you defend yourself you are a "vigilante." My understanding of a vigilante is someone who goes about looking to find bad guys and engage them in combat, not the other way around. But this is coming from a scumbag bureaucrat who has no concept of personal responsibility or self defense, so take it as a grain of salt.
OK senators can't come up with an agreement. Not that the bill does me a whole lot of good. It allows veterans to carry on campus, which I don't agree with because I think that it is giving "privileges" to a class of citizens instead of freeing up a right to be exercised by all citizens in general.
Here is a dose of stupid for today:
University of Oklahoma President David Boren had argued the bill would hurt recruitment of students and faculty. It also would pose a dilemma for police trying to determine whether a person wielding a weapon was a "deranged gunman or someone who thinks he is doing good vigilante work."
So if you defend yourself you are a "vigilante." My understanding of a vigilante is someone who goes about looking to find bad guys and engage them in combat, not the other way around. But this is coming from a scumbag bureaucrat who has no concept of personal responsibility or self defense, so take it as a grain of salt.
Monday, March 31, 2008
Apparently I'm not the only one
Someone else agrees with my theory of "victory by attrition" where the media is reporting every possible shooting in DC now that Heller is being reviewed by SCOTUS.
Tim Kaine Tomfoolery
If you haven't been following, Va Governor Tim Kaine has screwed Va gun owners.
David tells it like it is. My quick coverage here. Here's more from the VCDL which I will post in full:
No double standards there! Governor Kaine has denied that SB 476 allows Commonwealth attorneys to drink, but the VCDL hold his feet to the fire. He's going to get grilled over this next.
David tells it like it is. My quick coverage here. Here's more from the VCDL which I will post in full:
IT'S "FOR THE CHILDREN"
When Governor Kaine filled out VCDL's statewide survey, he said that he did not support CHP holders carrying in K-12 schools.
So what does he do? He signs SB 776, which allows Commonwealth Attorneys, who are not required to have any firearms training, to carry a handgun either concealed or openly anywhere on K-12 school property, including classrooms! Just like with restaurants that serve alcoholic beverages, the Governor has a double standard. He
gladly allows untrained government employees to carry at schools, but opposes allowing law-abiding and trained CHP holders to do the same.
Here is the law:
18.2-308.1 is the school code.
18.2-308.1 B, second paragraph, starts out with: "The exemptions set out in A7 18.2-308 shall apply, mutatis mutandis, to the provisions of this section."
That means that anyone listed in 18.2-308 B or C (like police, and now Commonwealth Attorneys) are exempted from the ban on school carry in 18.2-308.1.
No double standards there! Governor Kaine has denied that SB 476 allows Commonwealth attorneys to drink, but the VCDL hold his feet to the fire. He's going to get grilled over this next.
Another anti-war movie
It seems Stop-Loss also falls on its face.
The movie is about the stop loss policy for extending the active duty contract of those serving in the military and how it affects Soldiers. Some erroneously think it applies only to the Army.
I suppose Hollywood thinks they're exposing some sort of military disservice or something, as if it really is a "back door draft" as the uninformed media calls it. Having been stop lossed two weeks before the end of my active duty contract and sent to war, I clearly understand the weight of the issue.
The troops who are surprised by stop loss are the ones who didn't read their service contract very well; you sign up for however much active service, usually four years, and then a time of inactive service, usually an additional four years. You can be called back into active service within that inactive time period.
I am pretty tired of the Hollywood and media "elite" types speaking of things of which they have no knowledge or understanding. Here's to hoping they loose every dollar they put into trash like this.
Bastards
The movie is about the stop loss policy for extending the active duty contract of those serving in the military and how it affects Soldiers. Some erroneously think it applies only to the Army.
I suppose Hollywood thinks they're exposing some sort of military disservice or something, as if it really is a "back door draft" as the uninformed media calls it. Having been stop lossed two weeks before the end of my active duty contract and sent to war, I clearly understand the weight of the issue.
The troops who are surprised by stop loss are the ones who didn't read their service contract very well; you sign up for however much active service, usually four years, and then a time of inactive service, usually an additional four years. You can be called back into active service within that inactive time period.
I am pretty tired of the Hollywood and media "elite" types speaking of things of which they have no knowledge or understanding. Here's to hoping they loose every dollar they put into trash like this.
Bastards
Un-registered assault snake bites man
This one here in Va. Apparently it was left unattended in a man's briefcase and loaded with "assault venom." The fangs on the snake were reported to be the type that can pierce a full-grown adults skin.
Why the assault snake needed such deadly fangs and venom is still undetermined.
Why the assault snake needed such deadly fangs and venom is still undetermined.
Saturday, March 29, 2008
I thought it was gun free?
A 7 year old who was shot during a "gun battle" in DC is going to be fine. This event happened in spite of the "heightened" police presence and the door-to-door gun grabbing scheme, not to mention the outright gun ban.
Somehow I doubt that it was a gun battle with all of 50 words in the article, but it would seem like the media is reporting every shooting in the city. With the Heller decision hanging over the city, one would think that their intention is to sway the public opinion into a negative view.
Update: Here's another one. I think my theory of "victory by attrition" from the media has merit. There is nothing special about this shooting to draw anyone's attention. So many people get shot and killed in DC that it blows the mind and I think we will see every shooting in the news for the next few weeks, if not longer.
One would actually think that this tactic would not work considering it shows how ineffective the gun ban is.
Somehow I doubt that it was a gun battle with all of 50 words in the article, but it would seem like the media is reporting every shooting in the city. With the Heller decision hanging over the city, one would think that their intention is to sway the public opinion into a negative view.
Update: Here's another one. I think my theory of "victory by attrition" from the media has merit. There is nothing special about this shooting to draw anyone's attention. So many people get shot and killed in DC that it blows the mind and I think we will see every shooting in the news for the next few weeks, if not longer.
One would actually think that this tactic would not work considering it shows how ineffective the gun ban is.
How it starts
I'm waiting with baited breath for the cries to regulate the latest deadly threat to society. That threat would be in the form of the .22 Magnum rifle that two teenage punks used to shoot up cars in Virginia.
"A .22 MAGNUM!! Why, ain't that the type of gun that shoots them armor piercing rounds? I heard it can go clean through a bullet proof vest!"
Well, almost. We should ban it just to be safe.
"A .22 MAGNUM!! Why, ain't that the type of gun that shoots them armor piercing rounds? I heard it can go clean through a bullet proof vest!"
Well, almost. We should ban it just to be safe.
Friday, March 28, 2008
Great Rants
Do yourself a favor and go over to Larry Correia's place and check out his latest H&K rant. If you don't know who he is then check out the original H&K rant that has made him pretty famous.
Update: Here is a newer H&K rant! They just don't stop!
Update: Here is a newer H&K rant! They just don't stop!
Friday morning round up
An un-registered assault snake was stolen yesterday, and an unlicensed assault snake scares a homeowner. Both are presumed to be super deadly.
Two people shot at random cars on I-64 yesterday. Some of the media erroneously call them snipers, which is odd because snipers are expert riflemen that actually kill people.
It would seem that signs and laws cannot keep guns out of schools or other prohibited areas these days.
Md bill would punish citizens for the actions of wild animals.
Lots of knife crime this week.
Three killed by a gunman in Ga at Doctors Hospital. Time will tell if the hospital had a sign posted that would have prevented this tragedy.
Two people shot at random cars on I-64 yesterday. Some of the media erroneously call them snipers, which is odd because snipers are expert riflemen that actually kill people.
It would seem that signs and laws cannot keep guns out of schools or other prohibited areas these days.
Md bill would punish citizens for the actions of wild animals.
Lots of knife crime this week.
Three killed by a gunman in Ga at Doctors Hospital. Time will tell if the hospital had a sign posted that would have prevented this tragedy.
Thursday, March 27, 2008
AK-47 hysteria!
I started to write about this in the wee hours of the morning but never finished. I'm convinced that my family is trying to covertly destroy my blogging time.
It matters not! Uncle has done a fantastic job of covering all of the good stuff so go check it out!
It matters not! Uncle has done a fantastic job of covering all of the good stuff so go check it out!
Knock, Knock...Who's There? Tyranny...Tyranny Who?
...Tyranny guns in there? HAHA I crack me up.
Anyways, a co-worker informed me of 107.7 FM 3WT talk radio where they throw softball questions at DC Mayor Adrien Fenty every week, so this morning I'm tuned in and sure enough they get him on the line to discuss the "Safe Homes Initiative" where the Metro Police Department is going door-to-door in search of guns in the possession of residents.
My past coverage on this is here.
Softball questions would be an understatement. They ask the Mayor if there are any Constitutional issues that he is concerned about with this sort of event and he starts talking about how everyone else is doing it and then dodges the question. He also can't give an answer to the question of what specifically the Metro Police are asking residents when they are at the door, and David Burd, Jessica Doyle and Victoria Jones let him get away with these non-answers completely unchallenged.
One thing he did say that I thought was interesting is
That's odd because I thought the DC residents were afraid of the gangs who were murdering citizens with guns, knives, fists, and other weapons. Do you think gang bangers and murderers are going to just let the police into their house? Maybe they will if they think the gun they murdered with is not traceable, then they can get amnesty.
DC thinks that criminals get around the gun ban because of "lax" gun laws in VA, and that is why they terrorize DC residents with violence and mayhem. If DC residents want to live in a lower crime area they need only to cross the Potomac River into VA where the crime rate is many times lower and guns can be legally bought, sold, and carried. DC is a violent city because it has an uncontrolled CRIMINAL problem, not because it is full of guns.
The real issue here is that Mayor Fenty believes that if they take guns away from those citizens that can be intimidated into allowing entry into their house then criminals, who will not let cops take the weapons of their trade, will cease being criminals. Taking away guns will not work. If he is only going to give amnesty to criminals and not do what it takes to lock them up forever then DC is going to stay the landmark capitol of violence in America.
Anyways, a co-worker informed me of 107.7 FM 3WT talk radio where they throw softball questions at DC Mayor Adrien Fenty every week, so this morning I'm tuned in and sure enough they get him on the line to discuss the "Safe Homes Initiative" where the Metro Police Department is going door-to-door in search of guns in the possession of residents.
My past coverage on this is here.
Softball questions would be an understatement. They ask the Mayor if there are any Constitutional issues that he is concerned about with this sort of event and he starts talking about how everyone else is doing it and then dodges the question. He also can't give an answer to the question of what specifically the Metro Police are asking residents when they are at the door, and David Burd, Jessica Doyle and Victoria Jones let him get away with these non-answers completely unchallenged.
One thing he did say that I thought was interesting is
"I think the people are afraid of the guns in their neighborhood"- (not an exact quote, I was driving a car when he said it).
That's odd because I thought the DC residents were afraid of the gangs who were murdering citizens with guns, knives, fists, and other weapons. Do you think gang bangers and murderers are going to just let the police into their house? Maybe they will if they think the gun they murdered with is not traceable, then they can get amnesty.
DC thinks that criminals get around the gun ban because of "lax" gun laws in VA, and that is why they terrorize DC residents with violence and mayhem. If DC residents want to live in a lower crime area they need only to cross the Potomac River into VA where the crime rate is many times lower and guns can be legally bought, sold, and carried. DC is a violent city because it has an uncontrolled CRIMINAL problem, not because it is full of guns.
The real issue here is that Mayor Fenty believes that if they take guns away from those citizens that can be intimidated into allowing entry into their house then criminals, who will not let cops take the weapons of their trade, will cease being criminals. Taking away guns will not work. If he is only going to give amnesty to criminals and not do what it takes to lock them up forever then DC is going to stay the landmark capitol of violence in America.
Tuesday, March 25, 2008
Blade-Tech holster review
Click here to see the update on the Fobus ankle holster review that I wrote earlier.
I have several belt and paddle holsters for the Glock 17 but was interested in a IWB, mainly to help hide the length of the slide. After looking over every holster that I could find I settled on the Blade-Tech standard IWB.
Fitting the gun to the holster with the tension screws was quick. The belt loops attach to the holster body with screws and are adjustable for cant, with the loop closest to the sight trough having two slots to give a greater degree of cant.
I have several belt and paddle holsters for the Glock 17 but was interested in a IWB, mainly to help hide the length of the slide. After looking over every holster that I could find I settled on the Blade-Tech standard IWB.
At $65 it is not expensive and I didn't even wait 4 days to receive the package. After taking it out of the box, the first thing I noticed is that it's very well made. I used to have an ultra-thin Kydex IWB from Fist Inc. for a Glock 20 that was wonderful for concealment, but it was - as you would guess - very thin. The Blade-Tech is not super thin but it is not excessive either. It has the double snaps so that it can be put on and taken off without the removal of the belt, as well as two adjustable tension screws to keep the gun secure.
Fitting the gun to the holster with the tension screws was quick. The belt loops attach to the holster body with screws and are adjustable for cant, with the loop closest to the sight trough having two slots to give a greater degree of cant.
I prefer a great deal of cant to help with concealment, but more importantly to help balance the gun. 17 rounds of 9mm in the magazine is not light and makes the butt of the gun tip down.
I usually wear some type of riggers belt from either 5.11 or Wilderness. The belt loops fit over them fine and I think that the 1 3/4" riggers belt from Blackhawk would probably work great too.
As far as the holstering and un-holstering, this is where the Blade-Tech really shines. No exaggerating, this is the slickest holster I have ever owned. Blade-Tech claims this thing is made of Kydex, but with the silky smooth snickitty-snick goodness it feels like it was crafted from the plasticized asshole of Bambi's baby brother. I'm not kidding. When you holster the pistol it's like a hand is inside of the thing and guides the pistol home. Drawing is fast and smooth and lacks the distinct Kydex snap that I'm used to from using Fobus holsters. Not that Fobus holsters are bad or anything; I have lots of them.
I generally use leather holsters because they feel smoother than the gritty snap of Kydex but now I feel like I may have to order another one of these for the future 1911 that I'm shopping for.
The Blade-Tech carries and conceals well but I find IWB holsters uncomfortable. This is not a knock against the Blade-Tech, it's just that sitting on a 3 x 2" block of plastic and steel all day can be very painful. Then again, to quote Clint Smith - "Your carry gun should be comforting, not comfortable." 
Even with the gun canted as much as that it still tips down after getting in and out of the car and walking around all day. No big deal to me, this holster is for the minimalist to conceal a handgun. If I wanted a holster that absolutely did not move I would have ordered one of these.
Taking the holster off is very easy, just un-snap the belt loops and off she goes. Putting the holster on while wearing the belt can be a exercise in futility. I find it a pain so I thread the belt through like any other holster and I save myself some time. A bonus is that my Glock 26 also fits in this holster just as well as the Glock 17, although the paperwork that came with it says not to use it for any gun that it is not designed for. Just a thought.
Other than that, there isn't much else to say about it. I will update this post at a later date if I have more to report.
Monday, March 24, 2008
Why would you need a gun in a National Park?
It's not like there is anything to be afraid of, the Park Rangers have your back! Too bad for this woman, no one was there for her, but...but...she was a martial artist and could handle herself! She went out fighting! Great.
What a tragedy. There must be a small but effective tool that provides protection from many of the hazards one would encounter along the Appalachian Trail.
There is! Banned you say? Why would anyone want to do that?
I assure you I will go out fighting too, but there will be alot more noise.
Here is a dose of stupid:
Fascinating. Yeah, there is crime, murder and such...occasionally...and you, as an individual adult, can bear all of the associated risks, hazards, and responsibilities that come with hiking thousands of miles through the wilderness, but you shouldn't carry a firearm to provide for any sort of protection against said hazards because there is nothing at all to worry about. Got it! I can't be trusted!
If someone had given Theodore Roosevelt this type of advise he would have slapped them silly!
What a tragedy. There must be a small but effective tool that provides protection from many of the hazards one would encounter along the Appalachian Trail.
There is! Banned you say? Why would anyone want to do that?
I assure you I will go out fighting too, but there will be alot more noise.
Here is a dose of stupid:
Crimes:
The Appalachian Trail is generally safe. However, a major crime (e.g. murder, rape) does occasionally occur on the A.T. Status of major crimes on the TEHCC section:Tennessee. This area was on the A.T. until 1954, when the A.T. was relocated. The murder occurred several miles from the current route of the A.T., and the people involved were not A.T. hikers.
In early October 1996, a murder occurred in the Stamping Ground Ridge section of Unicoi County,
There is ABSOLUTELY no need to carry firearms on the TEHCC section of the Appalachian Trail; the carrying of firearms on the A.T. is strongly discouraged and also subject to numerous state and federal laws.
Fascinating. Yeah, there is crime, murder and such...occasionally...and you, as an individual adult, can bear all of the associated risks, hazards, and responsibilities that come with hiking thousands of miles through the wilderness, but you shouldn't carry a firearm to provide for any sort of protection against said hazards because there is nothing at all to worry about. Got it! I can't be trusted!
If someone had given Theodore Roosevelt this type of advise he would have slapped them silly!
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