Senator Diane Feinstein has announced plans to introduce a bill in the Senate on Day 1 of session for 2013, the objective of which is to ban so-called "high capacity" magazines. I call these magazines "standard capacity" because they are generally the standard used for their respective firearms.
Who came up with the arbitrary 10-rounds, anyways? And why???
Of course, news has already leaked of Feinstein's plan to put in place an even more stringent gun ban than was had in 1994. The two most notorious parts of this soon-to-be-introduced ban, in my opinion, are the targeting of specific gun models, and the "evil features" changes.
Gun Models targeted:
In addition to the models banned in the 1994 bill:
AR15's
AK47's
TEC9's
UZIs
The proposed ban would also target:
M1 Carbine
SKS
Mini 14
The SKS and M1 Carbine are rifles created over 70 years ago. To be sure, there are more recently manufactured models (though few under the age of 40), but the technology is nearly a century old! The technological design of the Mini 14 is substantially similar to the M1 Carbine.
Also, the last time any of these rifles was used in a named mass killing was the Mini 14, used in 1986 in a shootout with FBI agents.
Evil Features
The most notable change from the proposed legislation, when compared to the 1994 ban, is that we would change the definition of a "semi-automatic assault-rifle" to any that has one "evil feature" (it had been two evil features in 1994), more features were added, as well:
Detachable magazine
Folding / telescoping stock
Pistol grip
Bayonet mount
Flash suppressor
Muzzle threading that would enable the attachment of a flash suppressor
Grenade launcher mount
Forward grips (newly added to proposed legislation)
Rocket launcher mount (newly added to proposed legislation)
Other exceptions from the 1994 legislation
The new bill would require the registration of all firearms that would be covered under this ban that are currently owned. These firearms cannot be transferred to others, ever. In the event of death, or if the owner becomes ineligible to own them (often this can happen for something as "heinous" as missing a child-support payment!), then the firearm is forfeited to the government.
Hypocrite!
Oh, did you know that Feinstein carries a gun!
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Monday, December 31, 2012
CAR - B - Q
The other day, I saw a Car-B-Q:
(actually, it was a dump truck)
You could see the smoke a half-mile away:
The poor guy on the side of the road here is the man I presumed was driving the vehicle:
The driver had to stand very far away because of the heat. I could feel the radiant heat inside my car.
This thing was on fire!
Note: All pictures were taken when my vehicle was at a stand-still due to the traffic.
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(actually, it was a dump truck)
You could see the smoke a half-mile away:
The poor guy on the side of the road here is the man I presumed was driving the vehicle:
The driver had to stand very far away because of the heat. I could feel the radiant heat inside my car.
This thing was on fire!
Note: All pictures were taken when my vehicle was at a stand-still due to the traffic.
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Sunday, December 30, 2012
Letter to Congress
Since the proposed gun ban is beyond unconstitutional, I urge you:
Print this letter, sign it, and send to your Congressman and Senators. Directions for finding your representatives are linked at the bottom of the letter.
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Print this letter, sign it, and send to your Congressman and Senators. Directions for finding your representatives are linked at the bottom of the letter.
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Calvinist double talk
Some Calvinists, who do not identify themselves as "Hyper-Calvinists," will tell you that God predestines who will be saved, but somehow that does not mean He predestines who will not be saved.
Does that confuse you as much as it does me?
Good thing God never said that.
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Does that confuse you as much as it does me?
Good thing God never said that.
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Saturday, December 29, 2012
Friday, December 28, 2012
Rolling with new folk...
New people to jiu-jitsu will eventually start sparring. When they do, they often have herky-jerky movements that help nothing (also known as "spazzing"); they do not often have good hand, hip, or leg placement; and they invariably think they just came up with the newest end-all-be-all "stump" to your game. I spar with new folks the first few times, so they don't accidentally hurt other members of the class.
This thought (my thoughts in italics) hits me almost every time I roll (spar) with a new person in jiu-jitsu class.
You are inside my guard and grasp my wrists with your hands.
*Nobody* has ever done that before.
I'll give you a minute or two to figure out something positive to do.
I'll even tell you as much.
See, it is not so hard for me to get my hands out by making little "wax-on-wax-off" circles.
You grab my wrists again, with even more strength this time?
I'll give you a moment to figure out something else, and I'll tell you so, again.
Be sure to tap to that triangle.
Now, if you are still doing this after I've given you coaching hints on passing guard...
Oy vey, as my Jewish friends would say.
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This thought (my thoughts in italics) hits me almost every time I roll (spar) with a new person in jiu-jitsu class.
You are inside my guard and grasp my wrists with your hands.
*Nobody* has ever done that before
I'll give you a minute or two to figure out something positive to do.
I'll even tell you as much.
See, it is not so hard for me to get my hands out by making little "wax-on-wax-off" circles.
You grab my wrists again, with even more strength this time?
I'll give you a moment to figure out something else, and I'll tell you so, again.
Be sure to tap to that triangle.
Now, if you are still doing this after I've given you coaching hints on passing guard...
Oy vey, as my Jewish friends would say.
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Thursday, December 27, 2012
The best choke
Who has a better choke? A (trained) man or a python?
Question answered:
Does it turn out like you thought it would?
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Question answered:
Does it turn out like you thought it would?
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Wednesday, December 26, 2012
No wait, there's more!
Not long after the shootings, Senator Feinstein said she would push for a gun ban in the US Senate.
Now, there's word that China wants us to enact stricter gun laws, and pronto.
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Now, there's word that China wants us to enact stricter gun laws, and pronto.
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Tuesday, December 25, 2012
Merry Christmas!
That is all.
Now get off the computer and go back to being with family. If you have no family to be with, open the Bible, and read about the true Reason for the season.
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Now get off the computer and go back to being with family. If you have no family to be with, open the Bible, and read about the true Reason for the season.
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Monday, December 24, 2012
You don't need guns
Recently, 20 children and 6 adults were sadly murdered by a madman with a gun. Of course, the liberals are all up in arms about gun control.
Amongst the rhetoric, liberals either imply or outright state that the gun is either:
A) the sole contributor to the crime,
B) the only thing that makes it possible for the madman to kill so many, or
C) some combination of A and B.
Now, here is what they won't talk to you about in light of A, B, and C: a man with a knife killed 22 people in a mass murder spree. Once again, gun control did not stop a mass murder by a madman.
Gun control only takes guns away from people who did not commit the crime.
Criminals do not (by default) obey the law, so they will acquire the weapons (regardless of weapon type) and commit the crime irrespective of whatever law is in place.
Therefore, it may be safely concluded that gun control as a concept is only adopted by one of three broad reaching groups of people:
1. Those who wish to rule subjects.
2. Those who are too stupid to realize the facts.
3. Those who have some sort of ulterior motive that is oddly not #1 or #2.
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Amongst the rhetoric, liberals either imply or outright state that the gun is either:
A) the sole contributor to the crime,
B) the only thing that makes it possible for the madman to kill so many, or
C) some combination of A and B.
Now, here is what they won't talk to you about in light of A, B, and C: a man with a knife killed 22 people in a mass murder spree. Once again, gun control did not stop a mass murder by a madman.
Gun control only takes guns away from people who did not commit the crime.
Criminals do not (by default) obey the law, so they will acquire the weapons (regardless of weapon type) and commit the crime irrespective of whatever law is in place.
Therefore, it may be safely concluded that gun control as a concept is only adopted by one of three broad reaching groups of people:
1. Those who wish to rule subjects.
2. Those who are too stupid to realize the facts.
3. Those who have some sort of ulterior motive that is oddly not #1 or #2.
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Sunday, December 23, 2012
You knew this was coming
Looks like Senator Feinstein wishes to introduce an "assault weapons" ban in the Senate. President Obama has already said he would sign one into law (despite the fact that it would be unconstitutional). Our only hope is the House of Representatives, where Republicans hold a firm majority.
Let us pray those Republicans (and maybe some of the Democrats) vote in favor of the Constitution and the will of their constituents.
Also, never mind that none of the recent shootings involved a so-called "semi-automatic assault weapon." Nor would a ban have prevented these people from stealing them (as they did in almost every case).
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Let us pray those Republicans (and maybe some of the Democrats) vote in favor of the Constitution and the will of their constituents.
Also, never mind that none of the recent shootings involved a so-called "semi-automatic assault weapon." Nor would a ban have prevented these people from stealing them (as they did in almost every case).
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Saturday, December 22, 2012
Winning as an instructor
Jiu-Jitsu is not the art of making someone tap out. It is the art of allowing them to be beaten in the method and manner they wish to be beaten.
Many new students rely too much on strength and speed when sparring. It is only natural. Part of my job as an instructor is to teach them not to rely on that, as there is always someone larger / faster / stronger. Technique rules.
To see a large, strong man finally give up on using his strength - particularly when rolling (sparring) with a youngster or woman - is to see one's teaching efforts finally take root. It is very reassuring when this happens.
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Many new students rely too much on strength and speed when sparring. It is only natural. Part of my job as an instructor is to teach them not to rely on that, as there is always someone larger / faster / stronger. Technique rules.
To see a large, strong man finally give up on using his strength - particularly when rolling (sparring) with a youngster or woman - is to see one's teaching efforts finally take root. It is very reassuring when this happens.
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Friday, December 21, 2012
Gun Stores Gone Wild
On Wednesday, December 19, I visited one of my favorite gun shops - Shooter's Depot. I visited at about 2:00 pm on my lunch break. At the moment I walked in, there were at least 9 people filling out form 4473 to buy guns. There were at least 20 other people looking at guns, ammo, and accessories. One could tell from the noise that the shooting range in the back was full, too.
My friend, Amiee, who works at Shooter's Depot, told me that they had sold all 35 of their AR15's in only a couple of days after the President said he wanted to look into gun bans.
So Thursday, December 20, as I drove back home, I passed by another good gun shop - the Outpost Armory near Murfreesboro, TN. This is one of the largest gun showrooms in the state, and they sell all types of guns and ammo, with a specialty in military-style guns.
This was the parking lot - every space was filled:
Here was the line at the "back" door:
And here was the line at the front door:
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My friend, Amiee, who works at Shooter's Depot, told me that they had sold all 35 of their AR15's in only a couple of days after the President said he wanted to look into gun bans.
So Thursday, December 20, as I drove back home, I passed by another good gun shop - the Outpost Armory near Murfreesboro, TN. This is one of the largest gun showrooms in the state, and they sell all types of guns and ammo, with a specialty in military-style guns.
This was the parking lot - every space was filled:
Here was the line at the "back" door:
And here was the line at the front door:
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Thursday, December 20, 2012
Dumb & Dumber
Many Americans are up in arms about what the President is doing now that he has been reelected to a second term. Specifically, there are two main hot topics these days. Taxes (the so-called "fiscal cliff") and guns (the so-called "assault weapons ban").
I even saw one idiot say on Facebook:
"Happy to say I voted for a red-blooded, gun loving American named Mitt Romney."
The obvious, and erroneous, assumption here is that Romney would do something different on taxes and spending, and that he would preserve our Second Amendment rights.
Taxes
President Obama wants to raise taxes on everybody. And he does not want to cut spending at all. To be fair, Obama has claimed to be willing to concede on a few, relatively small "spending cuts" - but they aren't really that much smaller than what Boehner wants. But "Billions" and "Trillions" are difficult for many people to make heads or tails of. So let's give the numbers in the same terms:
President Obama has agreed to: $0.85 Trillion in cuts.
Speaker Boehner has asked for $1.03 Trillion in cuts.
Both over 10 years.
We are over-spending by $1.2 Trillion PER YEAR!
Romney advocated a plan similar to this, and would be pushing it now had he been elected. It is far too little.
Guns
President Obama wants to enact another "assault-weapons" ban. He has commissioned Vice President Joe Biden to spearhead the effort.
Romney has a record on this sort of thing... he enacted the same thing as governor! He also said in the second debate that he would sign it into law if it had bipartisan support!
So - Do you still think Romney would have been better?
We would have been in the same ship, sailing in the same direction, headed over the same waterfall to certain destruction, the only difference is that we would have a white Mormon as captain instead of a black Muslim.
When does the revolution begin?
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I even saw one idiot say on Facebook:
"Happy to say I voted for a red-blooded, gun loving American named Mitt Romney."
The obvious, and erroneous, assumption here is that Romney would do something different on taxes and spending, and that he would preserve our Second Amendment rights.
WRONG!!!
Taxes
President Obama wants to raise taxes on everybody. And he does not want to cut spending at all. To be fair, Obama has claimed to be willing to concede on a few, relatively small "spending cuts" - but they aren't really that much smaller than what Boehner wants. But "Billions" and "Trillions" are difficult for many people to make heads or tails of. So let's give the numbers in the same terms:
President Obama has agreed to: $0.85 Trillion in cuts.
Speaker Boehner has asked for $1.03 Trillion in cuts.
Both over 10 years.
We are over-spending by $1.2 Trillion PER YEAR!
Romney advocated a plan similar to this, and would be pushing it now had he been elected. It is far too little.
Guns
President Obama wants to enact another "assault-weapons" ban. He has commissioned Vice President Joe Biden to spearhead the effort.
Romney has a record on this sort of thing... he enacted the same thing as governor! He also said in the second debate that he would sign it into law if it had bipartisan support!
So - Do you still think Romney would have been better?
We would have been in the same ship, sailing in the same direction, headed over the same waterfall to certain destruction, the only difference is that we would have a white Mormon as captain instead of a black Muslim.
When does the revolution begin?
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Smells fishy...
Connecticut shooting. Things don't add up. So many different reports.
I'll add to that list this item:
At first, we were told the shootings happened with the handguns and that the Bushmaster was in the back of the car.
Now we are told that the shootings happened with the Bushmaster.
This video explains it
What is the media hiding?
What agenda are they trying to push?
Why are they being so obvious?
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I'll add to that list this item:
At first, we were told the shootings happened with the handguns and that the Bushmaster was in the back of the car.
Now we are told that the shootings happened with the Bushmaster.
This video explains it
What is the media hiding?
What agenda are they trying to push?
Why are they being so obvious?
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Wednesday, December 19, 2012
Why gun control won't work
President Obama announced today that he is appointing Vice President Biden to lead a task force that will look into gun control measures "in an effort to curb violence."
It won't work, even if new measures get passed and enacted.
Connecticut has some of the strictest gun laws in the nation, including a so-called "assault weapon" ban. It didn't stop the crazy man from executing innocent children.
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It won't work, even if new measures get passed and enacted.
Connecticut has some of the strictest gun laws in the nation, including a so-called "assault weapon" ban. It didn't stop the crazy man from executing innocent children.
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Real Martial Arts
I saw this idea on a martial arts forum and decided to clean up the idea and post here:
You do not learn martial arts.
You PRACTICE martial arts.
The martial arts are not a "bag of tricks that help you beat a superior foe." The martial arts are a training program that, if you follow, and train hard enough in, YOU will be the superior adversary. You will be harder to choke because many people will have choked you. You will be harder to hit because people will have hit you. You will get beaten so many times that you wont be afraid anymore.
Simply "learning a trick" wont do it. Want to learn to defend? Go to a real dojo with lots of sparring/rolling. After the first 20 or so hours of rolling sessions (which is nothing special), you will still be mostly a novice, but you will also be a different person. The experts in your dojo will be "destroying" you, but you will be so much better compared to non-martial artists.
Blood, sweat and tears are the secret to learning true martial arts.
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You do not learn martial arts.
You PRACTICE martial arts.
The martial arts are not a "bag of tricks that help you beat a superior foe." The martial arts are a training program that, if you follow, and train hard enough in, YOU will be the superior adversary. You will be harder to choke because many people will have choked you. You will be harder to hit because people will have hit you. You will get beaten so many times that you wont be afraid anymore.
Simply "learning a trick" wont do it. Want to learn to defend? Go to a real dojo with lots of sparring/rolling. After the first 20 or so hours of rolling sessions (which is nothing special), you will still be mostly a novice, but you will also be a different person. The experts in your dojo will be "destroying" you, but you will be so much better compared to non-martial artists.
Blood, sweat and tears are the secret to learning true martial arts.
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Tuesday, December 18, 2012
Active Shooter
Here is a decent video for an active shooter situation, like we sadly saw recently in CT.
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Monday, December 17, 2012
How not to do it
Yesterday, the church my family has been attending voted to receive an interim pastor. In the preceding sermon, the man made the following errors:
1. Spoke of how god predestined whom would be saved before he even made the world. I did not capitalize "god" nor "he" as this man was obviously referencing some god other than Jehova of the Bible.
2. Spoke in a negative connotation of "assault weapons." Not five minutes after that, he made denigrating comments about GLOCK by name (and not in a "I prefer a 1911 to a GLOCK" way).
What I don't understand is why he didn't just go ahead and say he was "pro-choice" too. I mean, that is two of the major three things I value in life: God, guns, and life. This man does not speak of the same God as I believe in, he dislikes guns.
I would be on to looking for another place to worship, but the kids really like it here.
Couple of bits of irony:
- This interim pastor happens to be the father-in-law of the pastor of my former church (where I had been a member for over a decade).
- The pastor and youth minister at this church resigned shortly after we started attending. I held both individuals in high esteem. But, we tried to "stick it out" and see what would happen... much as we had been mistaken to do at our former church.
- This church is now heavily under the "ministry" of a certain religious company that is headquartered in Nashville. The more I find out about this company, the less I like them. Dealings with this company sparked the rift in my current church, and assisted in the rift in my former church.
I dislike these facts, as my children do enjoy their worship services, and my daughter attends the preschool program there. I do not plan to take her out, as the pastorship has almost no interaction with nor influence upon the preschool program.
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1. Spoke of how god predestined whom would be saved before he even made the world. I did not capitalize "god" nor "he" as this man was obviously referencing some god other than Jehova of the Bible.
2. Spoke in a negative connotation of "assault weapons." Not five minutes after that, he made denigrating comments about GLOCK by name (and not in a "I prefer a 1911 to a GLOCK" way).
What I don't understand is why he didn't just go ahead and say he was "pro-choice" too. I mean, that is two of the major three things I value in life: God, guns, and life. This man does not speak of the same God as I believe in, he dislikes guns.
I would be on to looking for another place to worship, but the kids really like it here.
Couple of bits of irony:
- This interim pastor happens to be the father-in-law of the pastor of my former church (where I had been a member for over a decade).
- The pastor and youth minister at this church resigned shortly after we started attending. I held both individuals in high esteem. But, we tried to "stick it out" and see what would happen... much as we had been mistaken to do at our former church.
- This church is now heavily under the "ministry" of a certain religious company that is headquartered in Nashville. The more I find out about this company, the less I like them. Dealings with this company sparked the rift in my current church, and assisted in the rift in my former church.
I dislike these facts, as my children do enjoy their worship services, and my daughter attends the preschool program there. I do not plan to take her out, as the pastorship has almost no interaction with nor influence upon the preschool program.
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Sunday, December 16, 2012
Would you look at this?
So if you want to learn effective self defense, you should:
1. Give your attacker tobacco and wait 50 years.
2. Send your attacker to doctors.
3. Let him simply have a normal accident.
4. Give him a drink.
5. Let him drive a car.
6. Allow him to poison himself.
7. Allow him to OD on drugs.
8. Let him accidentally fall off of something.
9. Hit him with a baseball bat.
10. Shoot him.
By the way - the firearm homicides also includes justifiable homicides as determined by the legal system. So not all of them were cold-blooded murders. A number were legitimate self defense actions!
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Saturday, December 15, 2012
Calvinist Corner - December 2012
Calvinism is not Biblical Doctrine. It's a human
philosophy that appeals to proud-minded individuals.
Limited Atonement
This is the heretical concept that God's salvation was for only the saved.
Total refute: John 3:16
By the way, for the link above, I linked to the ESV. Normally, I do not use this translation, as it is not a true translation, but it is rather a translation conceived by Calvinists, for Calvinists, to push their false agenda. However, even they cannot lie enough to overturn this one verse, which just so happened to be the verse that the late Dr. Adrian Rogers used to refute predestination (see last month's post).“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life."
"world"
"For God so loved the world, that He gave His only son..." Herein "the world" clearly means that God loves everyone. How could God love a person, and condemn that person to Hell without that person ever having a choice in the matter?
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Friday, December 14, 2012
Thursday, December 13, 2012
Juji Gatame over time
Really good video by Roy Dean about the perspective on a simple arm lock from jiu-jitsu.
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Wednesday, December 12, 2012
What do I stand for
And no, I am not making reference to the pop song. I am talking about a short video by Steven Crowder in which he interviews self-describing Democrats, yet they embrace Republican (more correctly, conservative) ideas.
Hmmmm...
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Hmmmm...
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Tuesday, December 11, 2012
Dean on taxes
Recent interview with Howard Dean. Some of his quotes, and my thoughts:
"The truth is, everybody needs to pay more taxes, not just the rich."
So there we have it. Finally, a liberal who speaks liberals' collective thoughts out loud and honestly. They want more taxes on everyone. One problem: this fiscal cliff did not come about because we failed to tax enough. IT'S THE SPENDING, STUPID!
"We are not going to get out of this deficit problem unless we raise taxes across the board... if we don't do that, then pressure is going to be on spending even more."
And here is the truth about liberal though processes again - they worry most about cuts in spending. They do not want cuts in spending. They KNOW the problem is brought about by the spending. They do not think it is a problem, as they wish for us all to sacrifice our collective liberty for the sake of progressivism.
Understand though, for all intents and purposes - progressivism = leftism = communism = socialism.
None of these is good for us. None will lead to a better society. None of these things will bring the "benefits" that liberals tout.
"I think going off the 'cliff' is a better solution for the nation's fiscal ails..."
I agree, Mr. Dean. I agree. Government is not the answer, and nothing would illustrate that better than seeing our government grind to a halt... and watch as life goes on.
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"The truth is, everybody needs to pay more taxes, not just the rich."
So there we have it. Finally, a liberal who speaks liberals' collective thoughts out loud and honestly. They want more taxes on everyone. One problem: this fiscal cliff did not come about because we failed to tax enough. IT'S THE SPENDING, STUPID!
"We are not going to get out of this deficit problem unless we raise taxes across the board... if we don't do that, then pressure is going to be on spending even more."
And here is the truth about liberal though processes again - they worry most about cuts in spending. They do not want cuts in spending. They KNOW the problem is brought about by the spending. They do not think it is a problem, as they wish for us all to sacrifice our collective liberty for the sake of progressivism.
Understand though, for all intents and purposes - progressivism = leftism = communism = socialism.
None of these is good for us. None will lead to a better society. None of these things will bring the "benefits" that liberals tout.
"I think going off the 'cliff' is a better solution for the nation's fiscal ails..."
I agree, Mr. Dean. I agree. Government is not the answer, and nothing would illustrate that better than seeing our government grind to a halt... and watch as life goes on.
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Monday, December 10, 2012
Don't do business here!
BancorpSouth is acting like it is a bank. Fact is, they are simply clueless.
I recently had to sever all ties with them. Previously, I had a checking account there, as well as a credit card I used for business expenses. Bancorp South forced my hand, and I was compelled to close my checking account with them earlier this year. Since then, I had discontinued using their credit card, as well.
However, unbeknownst to me, a couple of charges had slipped over the cutoff date from October to the November statement. That wouldn't have been a problem except:
THE IDIOTS AT BANCORP SOUTH NEVER SENT THE NOVEMBER STATEMENT!
I recently had to sever all ties with them. Previously, I had a checking account there, as well as a credit card I used for business expenses. Bancorp South forced my hand, and I was compelled to close my checking account with them earlier this year. Since then, I had discontinued using their credit card, as well.
However, unbeknownst to me, a couple of charges had slipped over the cutoff date from October to the November statement. That wouldn't have been a problem except:
THE IDIOTS AT BANCORP SOUTH NEVER SENT THE NOVEMBER STATEMENT!
Therefore, I was forced to fire them.
Why I terminated my relationships with BancorpSouth:
1) For theft by way of complicity on the part
of BancorpSouth
Namely: complete
failure to shut off a check card based on issues stemming from fraudulent charges
in August and September of 2012, despite being so ordered by the customer.
2) For gross negligence on the part of
BancorpSouth.
Namely: failure to send out a November statement, resulting
in the single and sole instance in Usagi’s life of failure
to pay any debt in a timely manner.
3) For dereliction of duty on the part of
BancorpSouth.
Namely: refusing to offer simple online banking information
on credit card accounts, as is standard protocol with all other major credit
card issuers.
4) For operating in a manner which fosters no
confidence in BancorpSouth.
Namely: inability of the bank to perform ordinary banking
duties without extreme intervention on behalf of the customers (namely: the
shutting off of a card, actually sending a bill to the customer, and offering
no alternate mean of checking balances owed).
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Ammo and fire
Have you ever wondered what would happen if there was a fire and ammunition was in its path?
The folks at SAAMI did a battery of tests on ammunition in fires. They also crushed ammo, and dropped it. The point was to examine how dangerous ammunition can be when not chambered in a firearm.
Link to video - it is about 25 minutes long.
Conclusion: ammo is not very dangerous unless contained within a firearm. Also, it is very difficult to get ammo to ignite accidentally.
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The folks at SAAMI did a battery of tests on ammunition in fires. They also crushed ammo, and dropped it. The point was to examine how dangerous ammunition can be when not chambered in a firearm.
Link to video - it is about 25 minutes long.
Conclusion: ammo is not very dangerous unless contained within a firearm. Also, it is very difficult to get ammo to ignite accidentally.
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Sunday, December 9, 2012
M16A2 Clone
I recently built a budget M16A2 clone. Total cost was $600. To be fair, I had an A2 upper sitting around. Not much else to say, so enjoy the pictures:
Friday, December 7, 2012
Calvinist Double-Talk
Calvinists are world-renown for their double-talk. That is to say, they will claim one thing that is in contradiction to the Bible, then try to rationalize it within Biblical "context." Clearly, these items just are not so.
Part 1 - Limited Atonement
This is the "L" in "TULIP."
The heresy of TULIP is the fundamentals of Calvinism.
The concept is simple - Jesus' death is the price paid for sin He did not commit. Sin committed by those who would be saved by His grace. Atonement is, by definition, reparation for a wrong, injury, or sin.
At question: for whose sins did Jesus die?
If you believe, as Calvinists do, that those that are to be saved were predestined for Salvation, then it is clear that the atonement for sin was strictly for those whom God predestined for salvation.
This is clearly not in line with scripture.
Calvinists will argue that Christ's atonement will not cover all sins, as all people will not be saved ("unlimited atonement"). The concept of unlimited atonement - which is another way of referring to Universalism - is not scriptural, either.
Again - the Calvinist mindset is to play verbal gymnastics. "You must have either limited atonement or unlimited atonement!" (Funny: they play this "either-or" game, but will not play when you mention double-predestination!)
So whose sins will be atoned for?
John 3:16 states that "whosoever believes" in Him will be saved.
.
Part 1 - Limited Atonement
This is the "L" in "TULIP."
The heresy of TULIP is the fundamentals of Calvinism.
The concept is simple - Jesus' death is the price paid for sin He did not commit. Sin committed by those who would be saved by His grace. Atonement is, by definition, reparation for a wrong, injury, or sin.
At question: for whose sins did Jesus die?
If you believe, as Calvinists do, that those that are to be saved were predestined for Salvation, then it is clear that the atonement for sin was strictly for those whom God predestined for salvation.
This is clearly not in line with scripture.
Calvinists will argue that Christ's atonement will not cover all sins, as all people will not be saved ("unlimited atonement"). The concept of unlimited atonement - which is another way of referring to Universalism - is not scriptural, either.
Again - the Calvinist mindset is to play verbal gymnastics. "You must have either limited atonement or unlimited atonement!" (Funny: they play this "either-or" game, but will not play when you mention double-predestination!)
So whose sins will be atoned for?
John 3:16 states that "whosoever believes" in Him will be saved.
.
Thursday, December 6, 2012
Not all of them
Not every member of the media is an incompetent leftist buffoon.
I mean, sure, Bob Costas and Jason Whitlock recently proved themselves as such (OK - to be fair, Whitlock does that every time he puts pen to paper). However, Jen Engel is not an asinine idiot, and better: she proves as much in her recent article about freedom erosion.
.
I mean, sure, Bob Costas and Jason Whitlock recently proved themselves as such (OK - to be fair, Whitlock does that every time he puts pen to paper). However, Jen Engel is not an asinine idiot, and better: she proves as much in her recent article about freedom erosion.
.
Wednesday, December 5, 2012
Movie Review: Karate Kid I & II
For today's review, I will take note of the movies The Karate Kid and The Karate Kid II.
I had seen both of these many times as a kid. We had them both on tape. At the time, I liked the second one a bit better. Well, I watched both through entirely recently... probably the first time in fifteen or more years... and had some thoughts on them.
The Karate Kid
This movie is far better than the second. Now I know why it was nominated for several awards and the second was not. The acting was far better. The score was much better. The directing and production was better. The plot was far more original.
I really wish learning the martial arts was as easy as Miyagi made it look!
The Karate Kid II
As a child, I liked this one a bit better. Had more fights. However, a few things turned me off to this one as an adult.
1. Miyagi turns into some sort of peacenik. Seriously, I can understand (and personally, I do adopt) an attitude of nonviolence, but Miyagi goes leftist in this movie. Also, he has a few too many "wise" quotes. It was just overkill.
2. How did Chozen get hurt by the drum technique? Seriously, it is a block. No strike was ever shown while Daniel used the drum technique. However, Chozen's cheeks mysteriously sustain damage and get bloodied.
3. Six blocks of ice??? Strength does come into play in breaking - and outside-to-inside breaks are very difficult. Come on.
4. The musical score was a bit off in this one. Didn't flow like the first one.
Still, it was fun. But the first was superior all the way around.
.
I had seen both of these many times as a kid. We had them both on tape. At the time, I liked the second one a bit better. Well, I watched both through entirely recently... probably the first time in fifteen or more years... and had some thoughts on them.
The Karate Kid
This movie is far better than the second. Now I know why it was nominated for several awards and the second was not. The acting was far better. The score was much better. The directing and production was better. The plot was far more original.
I really wish learning the martial arts was as easy as Miyagi made it look!
The Karate Kid II
As a child, I liked this one a bit better. Had more fights. However, a few things turned me off to this one as an adult.
1. Miyagi turns into some sort of peacenik. Seriously, I can understand (and personally, I do adopt) an attitude of nonviolence, but Miyagi goes leftist in this movie. Also, he has a few too many "wise" quotes. It was just overkill.
2. How did Chozen get hurt by the drum technique? Seriously, it is a block. No strike was ever shown while Daniel used the drum technique. However, Chozen's cheeks mysteriously sustain damage and get bloodied.
3. Six blocks of ice??? Strength does come into play in breaking - and outside-to-inside breaks are very difficult. Come on.
4. The musical score was a bit off in this one. Didn't flow like the first one.
Still, it was fun. But the first was superior all the way around.
.
Two more idiots
Bob Costas went crazy at halftime of Sunday Night Football and outed himself as an anti-gunner.
He read from an article by Jason Whitlock, who espoused the same rhetoric.
Both are idiots.
.
He read from an article by Jason Whitlock, who espoused the same rhetoric.
Both are idiots.
.
Tuesday, December 4, 2012
Predestination is Wrong 8
Note:
God most certainly predestinates events and certainly did predestine to send His Son, Jesus Christ, to die for the World, so that the World, through Him, might be saved. However, God most certainly does not predestinate whom shall be saved. The notion that God determines whom shall be saved is called "unconditional election," and is a false doctrine. Those who would teach it are, by definition, false prophets. To teach false doctrine is, by definition, heresy.
The main, root problem:
The root of the problem with Calvinistic thinking - specifically with the notion that God predetermines who goes to Heaven (and by default, whom goes to Hell) - is pride. These people feel a need to be better than other people in some way and have found no other way to be better. It is a warped way of thinking and it is founded in pride.
In this series, I shall disprove the notion of the predestination of whom shall be saved.
Errant Judgment:
Why did God create us unable to do right, but then judge us for doing wrong?
See, if God predestined whom He would save, then it is mandatory that He would have made us incapable of accepting Him.
The whole reason God created man was so that we would worship Him of our own accord (our own free will). To say that we need God to apply irresistible grace to work His plan of salvation is not an attack on man - it is an attack on the nature of God. It makes fun of God by implying that He made man so incapable of anything, that in order for Him to be worshiped by us, He has to make us do it. Where is the glory, if we are simply puppets on a string?
If we are incapable of accepting Him, then we are incapable of doing anything right.
If we are incapable of doing right, why are we condemned for doing wrong?
8/8 - Written 4/2012
God most certainly predestinates events and certainly did predestine to send His Son, Jesus Christ, to die for the World, so that the World, through Him, might be saved. However, God most certainly does not predestinate whom shall be saved. The notion that God determines whom shall be saved is called "unconditional election," and is a false doctrine. Those who would teach it are, by definition, false prophets. To teach false doctrine is, by definition, heresy.
The main, root problem:
The root of the problem with Calvinistic thinking - specifically with the notion that God predetermines who goes to Heaven (and by default, whom goes to Hell) - is pride. These people feel a need to be better than other people in some way and have found no other way to be better. It is a warped way of thinking and it is founded in pride.
In this series, I shall disprove the notion of the predestination of whom shall be saved.
Errant Judgment:
Why did God create us unable to do right, but then judge us for doing wrong?
See, if God predestined whom He would save, then it is mandatory that He would have made us incapable of accepting Him.
The whole reason God created man was so that we would worship Him of our own accord (our own free will). To say that we need God to apply irresistible grace to work His plan of salvation is not an attack on man - it is an attack on the nature of God. It makes fun of God by implying that He made man so incapable of anything, that in order for Him to be worshiped by us, He has to make us do it. Where is the glory, if we are simply puppets on a string?
If we are incapable of accepting Him, then we are incapable of doing anything right.
If we are incapable of doing right, why are we condemned for doing wrong?
8/8 - Written 4/2012
Monday, December 3, 2012
Seminar Wrap Up
This past weekend, I drove to Virginia to teach a Jiu-Jitsu seminar in Appomattox at John Kennedy Martial Arts.
As is usual with my good friend, John, he invited several other schools to join in the fun. We trained for several hours Saturday, and had a picnic style lunch.
There were nearly forty attendees, ranging in age from age 7 to 50+. My student, Sarah, helped to teach and demonstrate the movements, as well as helped to coach the folks as they practiced. Sarah is about a foot shorter and 90 pounds lighter than I am, so the visual image of seeing a smaller person performing the movement on a larger, stronger opponent is stunning.
Sarah recounts to me that her favorite part is being approached by the mother of two young teenage girls who were in attendance (Megan and Allison - two really sweet girls). The mom told Sarah how much she inspired those girls to want to continue with the martial arts and train jiu-jitsu specifically. Sarah is also a mother of two (though they are not yet teenagers!), so this was especially touching.
I really enjoyed seeing people do a lot of things they enjoyed, as well as getting to see them demonstrate their karate for me after the fact. It was enlightening and entertaining. It was good to see some legitimate black belts in karate do their kata with such proficiency.
1. Take down
- double leg take down
2. Mount
- side to side stabilize
- opponent pushes straight up stabilize
- opponent rolls stabilize
3. Back Mount
- seat belt & leg hooks stabilize
4. Side position
- roll away stabilize
- roll towards stabilize
5. Guard pass
- "crazy legs" type pass
-----
lunch
-----
6. Mount escape
A) Trap arm
B) Trap leg (same side)
C) Lift hip
D) Roll
- "snake bite" variation: grab wrist and "coke-can" hold at elbow
- "shark bite" variation: encircle arm
- gable grip variation
7. Arm bar (juji gatame)
- standard set up: opponent pushes up
- forearm in throat set up
- opponent half rolls set up
.
As is usual with my good friend, John, he invited several other schools to join in the fun. We trained for several hours Saturday, and had a picnic style lunch.
There were nearly forty attendees, ranging in age from age 7 to 50+. My student, Sarah, helped to teach and demonstrate the movements, as well as helped to coach the folks as they practiced. Sarah is about a foot shorter and 90 pounds lighter than I am, so the visual image of seeing a smaller person performing the movement on a larger, stronger opponent is stunning.
Sarah recounts to me that her favorite part is being approached by the mother of two young teenage girls who were in attendance (Megan and Allison - two really sweet girls). The mom told Sarah how much she inspired those girls to want to continue with the martial arts and train jiu-jitsu specifically. Sarah is also a mother of two (though they are not yet teenagers!), so this was especially touching.
I really enjoyed seeing people do a lot of things they enjoyed, as well as getting to see them demonstrate their karate for me after the fact. It was enlightening and entertaining. It was good to see some legitimate black belts in karate do their kata with such proficiency.
Syllabus:
1. Take down
- double leg take down
2. Mount
- side to side stabilize
- opponent pushes straight up stabilize
- opponent rolls stabilize
3. Back Mount
- seat belt & leg hooks stabilize
4. Side position
- roll away stabilize
- roll towards stabilize
5. Guard pass
- "crazy legs" type pass
-----
lunch
-----
6. Mount escape
A) Trap arm
B) Trap leg (same side)
C) Lift hip
D) Roll
- "snake bite" variation: grab wrist and "coke-can" hold at elbow
- "shark bite" variation: encircle arm
- gable grip variation
7. Arm bar (juji gatame)
- standard set up: opponent pushes up
- forearm in throat set up
- opponent half rolls set up
.
Sunday, December 2, 2012
Saturday, December 1, 2012
Friday, November 30, 2012
Crash!
I can understand bad luck.
I can understand poor driving skills.
I can understand a momentary lapse in judgment.
I can even understand really bad circumstances.
But some things take the cake.
When working in the car rental field, I played witness to a person being at fault in no less than three collisions within a week's time frame. We got a call from her on a Monday morning - she was taking her car to the repair shop and needed a rental. She had been involved in a collision over the weekend.
I rented her a car.
Friday, she returned the rental and I returned her to the repair shop to pick up her newly repaired vehicle. Moments later, I get a call from the repair shop asking me to come pick her up again. I asked if her car repairs had been incomplete (a rare occurrence, but it was possible, and I'd seen it happen before). They said no, she had wrecked her car on the way home from the repair shop.
I picked her up again, and rented her another car...
And watched as she pulled out into traffic, wrecking the rental car.
...
I declined renting her another car at that point. We called her husband to pick her up.
.
I can understand poor driving skills.
I can understand a momentary lapse in judgment.
I can even understand really bad circumstances.
But some things take the cake.
When working in the car rental field, I played witness to a person being at fault in no less than three collisions within a week's time frame. We got a call from her on a Monday morning - she was taking her car to the repair shop and needed a rental. She had been involved in a collision over the weekend.
I rented her a car.
Friday, she returned the rental and I returned her to the repair shop to pick up her newly repaired vehicle. Moments later, I get a call from the repair shop asking me to come pick her up again. I asked if her car repairs had been incomplete (a rare occurrence, but it was possible, and I'd seen it happen before). They said no, she had wrecked her car on the way home from the repair shop.
I picked her up again, and rented her another car...
And watched as she pulled out into traffic, wrecking the rental car.
...
I declined renting her another car at that point. We called her husband to pick her up.
.
Ammo Test
I went to the range over the Thanksgiving Holiday. While there, I conducted an ammo test. The point of the test was to determine the different points of impact of different ammo choices.
For this test, I used my M16A4 clone with a stainless steel heavy barrel. The quad rail is free floated. I used a bipod to steady the rifle, and fired all rounds from 100 yards. An ACOG - TA31F was the optic of choice. The POA was the center of the center circle for all rounds.
Federal American Eagle 55-gr
The circles marked "1" were Wal Mart Federal American Eagle 55-grain. This is cheap ammo, but as you can see, it groups well. I'd say it is sub - 2 MOA ammo.
PMC X-Tac
The circles marked "2" were PMC X-Tac 62 grain penetrator. This 62 grain ammo has an unusually high ballistic coefficient, which would make it great for long range (especially at the then-price of $7 per box!). However, as you can see, the ammo just is not as consistent. I was surprised by this 3.5 MOA group. That's why I never stocked up a lot of it.
However, the point of this test is not to measure the accuracy of the ammo, but to measure how far off the point of impact would be from ammo type to ammo type. Safe to conclude that I'd need to adjust the point of impact down 2" and to the right an inch compared to the FAE.
Hornady Steel Match
Shots labeled "3" were Hornady Steel Match 75-grain ammo. After firing the first two, and noting they were 4" high, I intentionally held my point of aim at the bottom of the circle. Again, the shot was 4" high.
On my ACOG, I later zeroed with the Hornady, and it needed 4 clicks to be zeroed. So much for the ACOG having 1/3 MOA adjustments! No bother, though. I love the ACOG, and I know it is a combat style optic, not a precision optic. That said, it is not bad in the precision department.
PPU 75-grain Match
For my fourth and final test, and marked "4" on this sheet, I fired PPU 75-grain match ammo. My rifle loves this ammo (though I am confident now that the Hornady is just as accurate). I showed off a bit; point of aim for the first shot was dead middle. POA for the second shot was one square to the left. POA for the third shot was a square low.
This ammo is easily sub-MOA. It also has the exact same point of impact as the Federal American Eagle.
Lessons Learned:
1. I didn't expect a steel case load to perform that well. Hornady is definitely the torch-bearer of commercially manufactured match grade ammo. There's not a thing wrong with their steel cased ammo. I've seen other reports suggesting it is easily as accurate as their brass cased ammo.
2. PPU match ammo is just as good as the Hornady. They cost about the same. However, the PPU is loaded about 150 fps slower, so it does not match my ACOG's ballistic reticle at longer ranges. Never mind that, if I have to take a longer shot with an ACOG, I'll just use the Hornady Steel and give it 4 clicks of elevation correction.
3. I wish there was a 62-grain ammo with a .304 ballistic coefficient that was under 2 MOA.
4. Federal American Eagle will surprise you. I heard a while back that they use boat tail bullets, which is likely the case, given the accuracy I see in them.
.
For this test, I used my M16A4 clone with a stainless steel heavy barrel. The quad rail is free floated. I used a bipod to steady the rifle, and fired all rounds from 100 yards. An ACOG - TA31F was the optic of choice. The POA was the center of the center circle for all rounds.
Federal American Eagle 55-gr
The circles marked "1" were Wal Mart Federal American Eagle 55-grain. This is cheap ammo, but as you can see, it groups well. I'd say it is sub - 2 MOA ammo.
PMC X-Tac
The circles marked "2" were PMC X-Tac 62 grain penetrator. This 62 grain ammo has an unusually high ballistic coefficient, which would make it great for long range (especially at the then-price of $7 per box!). However, as you can see, the ammo just is not as consistent. I was surprised by this 3.5 MOA group. That's why I never stocked up a lot of it.
However, the point of this test is not to measure the accuracy of the ammo, but to measure how far off the point of impact would be from ammo type to ammo type. Safe to conclude that I'd need to adjust the point of impact down 2" and to the right an inch compared to the FAE.
Hornady Steel Match
Shots labeled "3" were Hornady Steel Match 75-grain ammo. After firing the first two, and noting they were 4" high, I intentionally held my point of aim at the bottom of the circle. Again, the shot was 4" high.
On my ACOG, I later zeroed with the Hornady, and it needed 4 clicks to be zeroed. So much for the ACOG having 1/3 MOA adjustments! No bother, though. I love the ACOG, and I know it is a combat style optic, not a precision optic. That said, it is not bad in the precision department.
PPU 75-grain Match
For my fourth and final test, and marked "4" on this sheet, I fired PPU 75-grain match ammo. My rifle loves this ammo (though I am confident now that the Hornady is just as accurate). I showed off a bit; point of aim for the first shot was dead middle. POA for the second shot was one square to the left. POA for the third shot was a square low.
This ammo is easily sub-MOA. It also has the exact same point of impact as the Federal American Eagle.
Lessons Learned:
1. I didn't expect a steel case load to perform that well. Hornady is definitely the torch-bearer of commercially manufactured match grade ammo. There's not a thing wrong with their steel cased ammo. I've seen other reports suggesting it is easily as accurate as their brass cased ammo.
2. PPU match ammo is just as good as the Hornady. They cost about the same. However, the PPU is loaded about 150 fps slower, so it does not match my ACOG's ballistic reticle at longer ranges. Never mind that, if I have to take a longer shot with an ACOG, I'll just use the Hornady Steel and give it 4 clicks of elevation correction.
3. I wish there was a 62-grain ammo with a .304 ballistic coefficient that was under 2 MOA.
4. Federal American Eagle will surprise you. I heard a while back that they use boat tail bullets, which is likely the case, given the accuracy I see in them.
.
Thursday, November 29, 2012
Expectations
Not a repo story, but from my car rental days. Customer had an odd expectation. It turned into a funny conversation.
Situation: There had been an ice storm. Many people had damaged cars. Rental cars were in short supply as they were almost all rented.
Note: Some insurance companies reimburse more than others for a rental car. You want as much of a daily allowance as possible, and you want there to be at least 20 days, if not 30, of consecutive reimbursable days.
A gentleman walked in to the facility and announced he needed to rent a car. Sure enough, we had received computer confirmation moments prior that his insurance company would offer to pay $25 per day towards a rental car.
At that moment in time, we had a Ford Explorer, and a Dodge Grand Caravan. Both vehicles, as negotiated by his insurance company, could be rented for $39.99 per day (plus applicable taxes, of course!). This was a good bargain - at the time, the retail price for either would have been $89.99 per day!
The renter seemed dismayed at this news as he chewed over in his head the thought of paying $20 per day out of pocket for the rental vehicle ($19.49 per day to be exact). He thought things over for a moment with a twisted scowl. Then a thought went across his face!
Renter: "But hey, my insurance company just made a reservation for me for a $25/day car!"
Nice try!
Me: "Sorry - they did not make a reservation. A reservation entails a specific class of car at a specific price on a specific day and time. Your insurance company simply sent notification that if you rented a car, they would pay up to $25 per day towards that rental."
Renter: "So what did they send you?"
Me: "Basically a voucher for up to $25 per day."
-----
Renter chews this over for a moment. As it turned out, at that point in time, a second renter showed up and rented the minivan. This is important in a moment!
-----
Renter: "So which car will you be renting me for $25 per day?"
Another nice try!
Me: "We do not currently have an available car that would rent for $25 per day or less."
Renter: "So which one are you making an over ride decision on to rent to me for $25?"
Me: "Hate to say it, but neither. Given the ice storm and all the damaged cars, there is no way I can offer five free upgrades. If you choose not to rent the car, it will be rented in a few moments at the fair market price to the next customer."
-----
The renter chews this one over. The door dings as another potential customer walks in and takes his place in line. My renter notices this, and gets a very surprised look on his face.
Renter: "I'll take the... whichever one you have left."
.
Situation: There had been an ice storm. Many people had damaged cars. Rental cars were in short supply as they were almost all rented.
Note: Some insurance companies reimburse more than others for a rental car. You want as much of a daily allowance as possible, and you want there to be at least 20 days, if not 30, of consecutive reimbursable days.
A gentleman walked in to the facility and announced he needed to rent a car. Sure enough, we had received computer confirmation moments prior that his insurance company would offer to pay $25 per day towards a rental car.
At that moment in time, we had a Ford Explorer, and a Dodge Grand Caravan. Both vehicles, as negotiated by his insurance company, could be rented for $39.99 per day (plus applicable taxes, of course!). This was a good bargain - at the time, the retail price for either would have been $89.99 per day!
The renter seemed dismayed at this news as he chewed over in his head the thought of paying $20 per day out of pocket for the rental vehicle ($19.49 per day to be exact). He thought things over for a moment with a twisted scowl. Then a thought went across his face!
Renter: "But hey, my insurance company just made a reservation for me for a $25/day car!"
Nice try!
Me: "Sorry - they did not make a reservation. A reservation entails a specific class of car at a specific price on a specific day and time. Your insurance company simply sent notification that if you rented a car, they would pay up to $25 per day towards that rental."
Renter: "So what did they send you?"
Me: "Basically a voucher for up to $25 per day."
-----
Renter chews this over for a moment. As it turned out, at that point in time, a second renter showed up and rented the minivan. This is important in a moment!
-----
Renter: "So which car will you be renting me for $25 per day?"
Another nice try!
Me: "We do not currently have an available car that would rent for $25 per day or less."
Renter: "So which one are you making an over ride decision on to rent to me for $25?"
Me: "Hate to say it, but neither. Given the ice storm and all the damaged cars, there is no way I can offer five free upgrades. If you choose not to rent the car, it will be rented in a few moments at the fair market price to the next customer."
-----
The renter chews this one over. The door dings as another potential customer walks in and takes his place in line. My renter notices this, and gets a very surprised look on his face.
Renter: "I'll take the... whichever one you have left."
.
A hunting we will go!
Over the Thanksgiving Holiday, I took my son up to my Uncle's place and we did some squirrel hunting.
Here is the young man in question: Cael. Age 8 and ready to bag a squirrel... even if he was not so sure of what to do with it afterwards.
Here is the tool of choice: a Charles Daly pump 20-gauge youth sized shotgun. We used #7 shot.
Walking through the woods, we found a deer stand. Cael decided to investigate:
Then he realized he could use the perch as a better way to spot some tree-rats:
Later, we got settled in a spot I felt would be good. Here is a tiny tree that was to my left:
There was not a single squirrel in the woods to be found, so after a couple of hours, we went back to my uncle's house, and since he lives in a remote area, we took some time to make sure the Sig Mosquito works well:
Of course, we shot the shotgun, too (that boy shot a whole box of shotgun shells!) and a few others. All in all, we got no squirrels, but had a great time. Oh, did I mention that Cael got to ride my uncle's 4-wheeler? What a treat!
.
Here is the young man in question: Cael. Age 8 and ready to bag a squirrel... even if he was not so sure of what to do with it afterwards.
Here is the tool of choice: a Charles Daly pump 20-gauge youth sized shotgun. We used #7 shot.
Walking through the woods, we found a deer stand. Cael decided to investigate:
Then he realized he could use the perch as a better way to spot some tree-rats:
Later, we got settled in a spot I felt would be good. Here is a tiny tree that was to my left:
There was not a single squirrel in the woods to be found, so after a couple of hours, we went back to my uncle's house, and since he lives in a remote area, we took some time to make sure the Sig Mosquito works well:
Of course, we shot the shotgun, too (that boy shot a whole box of shotgun shells!) and a few others. All in all, we got no squirrels, but had a great time. Oh, did I mention that Cael got to ride my uncle's 4-wheeler? What a treat!
.
Wednesday, November 28, 2012
Modern Minuteman
When the US was founded, the concept was that there would be no standing Army, but instead, a Militia comprised of able-bodied men ready to defend their collective freedom.
Of course, at the time, one of the ideas was that of being a "Minuteman" - to be ready at a minute's notice to go fight. Such a member of an unorganized militia might have had a couple dozen rounds of ammo, powder for same, a rile and some basic tools to bring all stored in one location and easily transported.
Part of what the Constitution mentions with the phrase "well-organized militia" is that each man should know how to follow the orders "make ready, take aim, fire." Back in those days, a certain level of marksmanship was expected - particularly if you had to hunt for food!
If someone were to take that idea, and expand it to being thusly prepared in the 21st Century, here is a list of tools that would be absolute requirements, at a minimum:
- Rifle (preferably an AR15)
- Ammo (7 mags would be a good start)
- Pocket knife
- Multi-tool
- Flashlight
Of course, depending on what one needed to do, there might be more items that would be necessary or really helpful. Some people put these in "bug out bags." Not a bad idea at all.
Also, please note that there are many acceptable variations of each tool. Just because I suggest one in particular does not mean that I do not value other iterations within their own scope of use. For example - instead of an AR15 (the rifle, ammo, mags, and a bandolier for same might run over $1000 in price), one could use an SKS (total cost would be closer to $500 for same setup) or even an old Mosin-Nagant (total cost might be under $200). As with any tool issue, the question is what can you afford, and what does the extra cost buy you?
A modern minuteman would want to invest some time in basic skills. At a minimum, he would want to be able to hit a 20" x 20" target at 100 yards with all 10 shots using only iron sights. This could be done from any position the minuteman so chooses. If he wants to do so with a bipod, that's fine, but the minuteman must be prepared to bring these items into battle if the need should ever arise (God forbid!). If a minuteman wants to use a scope, that's fine, but a very minimal amount of training is needed to make iron sight hits at 100 yards, so that's my suggestion.
What do you think?
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Of course, at the time, one of the ideas was that of being a "Minuteman" - to be ready at a minute's notice to go fight. Such a member of an unorganized militia might have had a couple dozen rounds of ammo, powder for same, a rile and some basic tools to bring all stored in one location and easily transported.
Part of what the Constitution mentions with the phrase "well-organized militia" is that each man should know how to follow the orders "make ready, take aim, fire." Back in those days, a certain level of marksmanship was expected - particularly if you had to hunt for food!
If someone were to take that idea, and expand it to being thusly prepared in the 21st Century, here is a list of tools that would be absolute requirements, at a minimum:
- Rifle (preferably an AR15)
- Ammo (7 mags would be a good start)
- Pocket knife
- Multi-tool
- Flashlight
Of course, depending on what one needed to do, there might be more items that would be necessary or really helpful. Some people put these in "bug out bags." Not a bad idea at all.
Also, please note that there are many acceptable variations of each tool. Just because I suggest one in particular does not mean that I do not value other iterations within their own scope of use. For example - instead of an AR15 (the rifle, ammo, mags, and a bandolier for same might run over $1000 in price), one could use an SKS (total cost would be closer to $500 for same setup) or even an old Mosin-Nagant (total cost might be under $200). As with any tool issue, the question is what can you afford, and what does the extra cost buy you?
A modern minuteman would want to invest some time in basic skills. At a minimum, he would want to be able to hit a 20" x 20" target at 100 yards with all 10 shots using only iron sights. This could be done from any position the minuteman so chooses. If he wants to do so with a bipod, that's fine, but the minuteman must be prepared to bring these items into battle if the need should ever arise (God forbid!). If a minuteman wants to use a scope, that's fine, but a very minimal amount of training is needed to make iron sight hits at 100 yards, so that's my suggestion.
What do you think?
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Funny follow up
Recently, I wrote about being "on paper" with a 300-yard zero using an AR15. I was at the range over the Thanksgiving Holiday, and made an impromptu follow up.
Target is a half-sized (10" wide) silhouette and was shot at 100 yards from the standing (offhand) position. Rifle is my main rifle - M16A4 clone with Stainless Steel heavy barrel and using an ACOG - TA31F. Ammunition was Federal American Eagle from Wal Mart. None of the materials, targets, or ammo was purchased on Black Friday.
I was aiming at the "8."
First group of 3 was shot using the tip of the chevron, where this rifle is sighted in at.
Second group was using the 25-yard zero point on the ACOG reticle - where the post turns from red to black. As you can see, this group strikes 3" - 4" high.
While I was at the range, a young man and his father came to shoot at the table next to the one I was using. The young man was named Reagan. He seemed most interested in the AR15 rifle. I put the bipod on the rifle, and at his father's request, I coached him through his first two shots ever on a centerfire rifle!
As you can see, he shot very close to my previous shot (taped over). His point of aim was at the top of the blue cross. Not bad for age 8 and never having shot a "big boy" rifle.
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Target is a half-sized (10" wide) silhouette and was shot at 100 yards from the standing (offhand) position. Rifle is my main rifle - M16A4 clone with Stainless Steel heavy barrel and using an ACOG - TA31F. Ammunition was Federal American Eagle from Wal Mart. None of the materials, targets, or ammo was purchased on Black Friday.
I was aiming at the "8."
First group of 3 was shot using the tip of the chevron, where this rifle is sighted in at.
Second group was using the 25-yard zero point on the ACOG reticle - where the post turns from red to black. As you can see, this group strikes 3" - 4" high.
-----
While I was at the range, a young man and his father came to shoot at the table next to the one I was using. The young man was named Reagan. He seemed most interested in the AR15 rifle. I put the bipod on the rifle, and at his father's request, I coached him through his first two shots ever on a centerfire rifle!
As you can see, he shot very close to my previous shot (taped over). His point of aim was at the top of the blue cross. Not bad for age 8 and never having shot a "big boy" rifle.
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Tuesday, November 27, 2012
So Which Way Is It?
The White House warned that if the Bush Tax Cuts are not extended, it will hurt the economy.
Yet liberals have been screaming for 10 years how much we need to let expire the "Bush Tax Cuts for the Wealthy."
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Yet liberals have been screaming for 10 years how much we need to let expire the "Bush Tax Cuts for the Wealthy."
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Funny conversation
This conversation took place between myself and a gun store moron (GSM) - who happened to be a manager at a store I recently visited.
Me: "Do you have any Hornady .223 Steel Match, 75-grain?"
GSM: "Nope. You know that stuff is just repackaged Tula."
Author's mental note at that moment in time:
WOW.
I mean, just... WOW.
-----
Me: "Really? They do not chrono the same."
GSM: "Hornady could be shipping them the powder."
-----
Yes - he just dug even deeper.
WOW.
.
Me: "Do you have any Hornady .223 Steel Match, 75-grain?"
GSM: "Nope. You know that stuff is just repackaged Tula."
-----
Author's mental note at that moment in time:
WOW.
I mean, just... WOW.
-----
Me: "Really? They do not chrono the same."
GSM: "Hornady could be shipping them the powder."
-----
Yes - he just dug even deeper.
WOW.
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Monday, November 26, 2012
Good Move
The Tennessee Vols recently fired football coach Derek Dooley. I like this move on the front that Dooley was never going to consistently lead the team to winning seasons, much less SEC championships.
There are some who said that Dooley should be given more of a chance. I'd offer this rebuttal: when you get to a point that any coach would do better, then the writing is on the wall. Sure, Dooley was the right choice when Kiffin left the program in shambles, most notably NCAA violations. But to be fair, those violations were petty at best. Media exaggeration at best.
The interim coach for the Vols season finale was offensive coordinator Jim Chaney. Say what you will about the Vols this year, the problem was not their offense. As it turns out, Chaney led the team to a 37-17 win against Kentucky.
Is Kentucky the best team to beat? Nope. They had not won an SEC game this year.
That said, the Kentucky win was the Vols first SEC win this year.
In other words, this was a game to decide the basement of the SEC East.
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There are some who said that Dooley should be given more of a chance. I'd offer this rebuttal: when you get to a point that any coach would do better, then the writing is on the wall. Sure, Dooley was the right choice when Kiffin left the program in shambles, most notably NCAA violations. But to be fair, those violations were petty at best. Media exaggeration at best.
The interim coach for the Vols season finale was offensive coordinator Jim Chaney. Say what you will about the Vols this year, the problem was not their offense. As it turns out, Chaney led the team to a 37-17 win against Kentucky.
Is Kentucky the best team to beat? Nope. They had not won an SEC game this year.
That said, the Kentucky win was the Vols first SEC win this year.
In other words, this was a game to decide the basement of the SEC East.
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Zero on an AR15
I have recommended a 300 meter zero like the USMC teaches. But a reader asked me - how do you zero for 300m if you only have a 100-yard range?
GREAT QUESTION!
Note: All measurements have been verified using a ballistic calculator.
For M855 or similar:
- the ballistic coefficient is .304
- the velocity from a 20" barrel is 3100 fps (subtract 50 fps for each inch shorter the barrel)
- bullet weight is 62 grains
For M193 or similar:
- the ballistic coefficient is .243
- the velocity from a 20" barrel is 3200 fps (subtract 50 fps for each inch shorter)
- bullet weight is 55 grains
Using RIBZ
Know and understand that I believe in having a Revised, Improved Battlesight Zero (RIBZ) on all AR15 iron sights. If your iron sights can be adjusted like that with either a 6/3 or 8/3 dial, then simply set it to the 100-yard setting and zero as normal. After the rifle is zeroed, then set it to 8/3 and forget it.
No elevation
However, not all rear iron sights have an elevation dial. If your rear sight is fixed with regards to elevation, then here is an easy way to obtain a 300m zero (or really darn close).
This is common for most flip-up iron sights such as Magpul, Troy, or similar.
1. Sight in at 25 yards to be on the button.
2. Move your target to 100 yards and fine-tune the zero such that your bullet impacts about 3.25 inches high from your exact point of aim.
(Alternately, sight in on the button at 100 yards, then rotate the front sight post "up" 3 clicks)
No elevation II
A 300m zero is fine for practical purposes, but it is not the most popular zero with flip up irons. The most popular zero is a 200m zero (which, incidentally, is really close to being dead on at 50 yards, too). I am not at all against this zero - it work very well.
1. Sight in at 25 yards to be on the button.
2. Move your target to 100 yards and fine tune such that the point of impact is 1 inch high.
3. Remember that at 300 yards, you will need to hold over about 7 inches (one dot over on most red-dot optics).
Other elevation settings
Suppose you have a MATECH or Knight's adjustable elevation backup iron sight. Both sights have settings from 200 yards to 600 yards.
1. Sight in at 25 yards on the 300m setting to be on the button.
2. Move your target to 100 yards and fine tune the zero such that the bullet impacts 1 inch high when set on the 200m setting (or 3.25 inches high on the 300m setting).
3. Set the sight to either 200 or 300 and forget it.
.
GREAT QUESTION!
Note: All measurements have been verified using a ballistic calculator.
For M855 or similar:
- the ballistic coefficient is .304
- the velocity from a 20" barrel is 3100 fps (subtract 50 fps for each inch shorter the barrel)
- bullet weight is 62 grains
For M193 or similar:
- the ballistic coefficient is .243
- the velocity from a 20" barrel is 3200 fps (subtract 50 fps for each inch shorter)
- bullet weight is 55 grains
Using RIBZ
Know and understand that I believe in having a Revised, Improved Battlesight Zero (RIBZ) on all AR15 iron sights. If your iron sights can be adjusted like that with either a 6/3 or 8/3 dial, then simply set it to the 100-yard setting and zero as normal. After the rifle is zeroed, then set it to 8/3 and forget it.
No elevation
However, not all rear iron sights have an elevation dial. If your rear sight is fixed with regards to elevation, then here is an easy way to obtain a 300m zero (or really darn close).
This is common for most flip-up iron sights such as Magpul, Troy, or similar.
1. Sight in at 25 yards to be on the button.
2. Move your target to 100 yards and fine-tune the zero such that your bullet impacts about 3.25 inches high from your exact point of aim.
(Alternately, sight in on the button at 100 yards, then rotate the front sight post "up" 3 clicks)
No elevation II
A 300m zero is fine for practical purposes, but it is not the most popular zero with flip up irons. The most popular zero is a 200m zero (which, incidentally, is really close to being dead on at 50 yards, too). I am not at all against this zero - it work very well.
1. Sight in at 25 yards to be on the button.
2. Move your target to 100 yards and fine tune such that the point of impact is 1 inch high.
3. Remember that at 300 yards, you will need to hold over about 7 inches (one dot over on most red-dot optics).
Other elevation settings
Suppose you have a MATECH or Knight's adjustable elevation backup iron sight. Both sights have settings from 200 yards to 600 yards.
1. Sight in at 25 yards on the 300m setting to be on the button.
2. Move your target to 100 yards and fine tune the zero such that the bullet impacts 1 inch high when set on the 200m setting (or 3.25 inches high on the 300m setting).
3. Set the sight to either 200 or 300 and forget it.
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Sunday, November 25, 2012
Saturday, November 24, 2012
Friday, November 23, 2012
Rebel against the norm
I will not go shopping today. Only in America can you have a "holiday" the point of which is to shop for things the very day after a real Holiday the point of which is to be thankful.
I am probably going shooting today. Seems to be a good way to buck the norm.
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I am probably going shooting today. Seems to be a good way to buck the norm.
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Thursday, November 22, 2012
Happy Thanksgiving
That is all.
Now stop reading the blog and go spend time with your family... or computer... or whatever.
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Now stop reading the blog and go spend time with your family... or computer... or whatever.
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Wednesday, November 21, 2012
Constitution and Congress
Congressman Nancy Pelosi forgot recently what part of the Constitution gives Congress authority to borrow money on behalf of the United States.
It is the 14th Amendment, Congressman Pelosi.
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It is the 14th Amendment, Congressman Pelosi.
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Crutches
Hey riflemen!
Hey - RIFLEMEN!
HEY! RIFLEMEN!
There is a group out there claiming to teach you how to be a rifleman. They claim they can teach you to: "take a rack grade rifle and surplus ammunition and consistently hit silhouette targets out to 500 yards from the prone position using iron sights and no rests or sandbags." I'm here telling you that may be the intent, but so many of those "riflemen" just ain't so.
So many people that get the "rifleman" designation from that outfit do so with highly tuned rifles, match grade ammo, scopes, and slings.
All of those devices are crutches!
I went shooting the other day - I do that a fair amount. An M16A2 clone, personally assembled for under $600, was the tool of choice. Shots were taken from improvised sitting position.
First, the rifle was tested out at 25 yards.
Sight setting: 8/3
5-shot group
Sight setting: 8/3 + 2
10-shot group
An Army Alt-C course of fire (40/40):
And here is a man-sized silhouette, shot at 400-yards:
Equipment and Statistics:
A2 fixed carry-handle sights.
Del Ton 1:9 twist 20" barrel. Government profile.
Federal American Eagle 55-grain .223 ammo ($6.99 from Wal Mart for 20 rounds).
Improvised sitting position.
What was NOT used:
Match grade ammo.
Scope.
Sling.
Prone position.
Match grade barrel.
Match grade trigger.
What I am not saying:
I am not saying that match grade ammo and barrels are not useful - they certainly are!
I am not being derogatory toward a prone position or use of the sling - those things are fine within their proper context.
I am certainly not advocating against a match grade trigger. In fact, as soon as I have funds, a RRA national match trigger is going in that M16A2 clone!
What I am saying:
Don't go around thinking you have some sort of Jedi Black Belt once you get a patch that says you played a game well.
Do go out there, and take those shooting skills to the next level. Challenge yourself!
Don't just shoot at 25 yards.
Don't just shoot at 100 yards, though that is much better.
Work most on your standing position. It is most likely to be used.
Work next most on your sitting position, it is second most practical.
Learn how to steady the rifle when braced on something for support.
Rely on skill - not equipment.
When you have skill, then add equipment, things really go in your favor.
To put it another way:
To shoot a 1.5" target at 25 meters with a highly tuned .22 and a scope from the prone with a sling is one thing. To shoot an actual silhouette at 300+ yards without a sling while using iron sights on a centerfire rifle in a modern military caliber and configuration is quite a different thing, altogether.
.
Hey - RIFLEMEN!
HEY! RIFLEMEN!
There is a group out there claiming to teach you how to be a rifleman. They claim they can teach you to: "take a rack grade rifle and surplus ammunition and consistently hit silhouette targets out to 500 yards from the prone position using iron sights and no rests or sandbags." I'm here telling you that may be the intent, but so many of those "riflemen" just ain't so.
So many people that get the "rifleman" designation from that outfit do so with highly tuned rifles, match grade ammo, scopes, and slings.
All of those devices are crutches!
I went shooting the other day - I do that a fair amount. An M16A2 clone, personally assembled for under $600, was the tool of choice. Shots were taken from improvised sitting position.
First, the rifle was tested out at 25 yards.
Sight setting: 8/3
5-shot group
Sight setting: 8/3 + 2
10-shot group
An Army Alt-C course of fire (40/40):
And here is a man-sized silhouette, shot at 400-yards:
Equipment and Statistics:
A2 fixed carry-handle sights.
Del Ton 1:9 twist 20" barrel. Government profile.
Federal American Eagle 55-grain .223 ammo ($6.99 from Wal Mart for 20 rounds).
Improvised sitting position.
What was NOT used:
Match grade ammo.
Scope.
Sling.
Prone position.
Match grade barrel.
Match grade trigger.
What I am not saying:
I am not saying that match grade ammo and barrels are not useful - they certainly are!
I am not being derogatory toward a prone position or use of the sling - those things are fine within their proper context.
I am certainly not advocating against a match grade trigger. In fact, as soon as I have funds, a RRA national match trigger is going in that M16A2 clone!
What I am saying:
Don't go around thinking you have some sort of Jedi Black Belt once you get a patch that says you played a game well.
Do go out there, and take those shooting skills to the next level. Challenge yourself!
Don't just shoot at 25 yards.
Don't just shoot at 100 yards, though that is much better.
Work most on your standing position. It is most likely to be used.
Work next most on your sitting position, it is second most practical.
Learn how to steady the rifle when braced on something for support.
Rely on skill - not equipment.
When you have skill, then add equipment, things really go in your favor.
To put it another way:
To shoot a 1.5" target at 25 meters with a highly tuned .22 and a scope from the prone with a sling is one thing. To shoot an actual silhouette at 300+ yards without a sling while using iron sights on a centerfire rifle in a modern military caliber and configuration is quite a different thing, altogether.
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Tuesday, November 20, 2012
Legislating Morality III
The final part of the blame for the Obama win.
This part of the blame rests squarely on the shoulders of Christians who refused to vote their values. This site has a great overview of politics with respect to the Bible, and specifically avoids connecting either party to the Bible, as the Bible is silent on the core political ideal of socialism vs. capitalism. (Do be careful - other parts of that site do espouse the heresy of predestination, and it similarly tries verbal gymnastics to avoid confronting the topic head on).
Nevertheless, one thing is clear: I cannot imagine for a moment that God condones abortion. Now, maybe I am wrong. I certainly do not presume to speak where God was silent. I certainly do not presume to put words in God's mouth. But one party is clearly in favor of abortion. And until we are all in Heaven and God tells us clearly His stance, I cannot agree with anyone who says God would be fine with abortion - it is contrary to everything that is in the Bible.
Yet so many Christians voted pro-choice. See, Obama is clearly pro-choice, and Romney was, too. That is not voting your values. Or maybe these people really do not believe the Bible?
Here's my allegation - if you are Christian and voted for Obama or Romney, then at least one of the following is true for you:
- You aren't really Christian.
- You don't really believe all of the Bible.
- You do not vote your morals.
- You have no morals.
- You are perfectly fine with compromising your morals.
- You are living in sin (fear).
I cannot help you if you fell into one of the top four categories. Those mean you have some serious integrity issues, or might have a mental disorder, or you really need to get to know God better.
However, I can address the final two.
Living in fear is sin. It is sin because fear is failing to trust God. If you voted for someone because he was the lesser of two evils, you voted for your own sin - your fear of one candidate over another.
COMPROMISE
Romans 12:2
FEAR
II Timothy 1:7
So why, fellow Christians, did you give in to your fear?
So why, fellow Christians, did you compromise your values?
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This part of the blame rests squarely on the shoulders of Christians who refused to vote their values. This site has a great overview of politics with respect to the Bible, and specifically avoids connecting either party to the Bible, as the Bible is silent on the core political ideal of socialism vs. capitalism. (Do be careful - other parts of that site do espouse the heresy of predestination, and it similarly tries verbal gymnastics to avoid confronting the topic head on).
Nevertheless, one thing is clear: I cannot imagine for a moment that God condones abortion. Now, maybe I am wrong. I certainly do not presume to speak where God was silent. I certainly do not presume to put words in God's mouth. But one party is clearly in favor of abortion. And until we are all in Heaven and God tells us clearly His stance, I cannot agree with anyone who says God would be fine with abortion - it is contrary to everything that is in the Bible.
Yet so many Christians voted pro-choice. See, Obama is clearly pro-choice, and Romney was, too. That is not voting your values. Or maybe these people really do not believe the Bible?
Here's my allegation - if you are Christian and voted for Obama or Romney, then at least one of the following is true for you:
- You aren't really Christian.
- You don't really believe all of the Bible.
- You do not vote your morals.
- You have no morals.
- You are perfectly fine with compromising your morals.
- You are living in sin (fear).
I cannot help you if you fell into one of the top four categories. Those mean you have some serious integrity issues, or might have a mental disorder, or you really need to get to know God better.
However, I can address the final two.
Living in fear is sin. It is sin because fear is failing to trust God. If you voted for someone because he was the lesser of two evils, you voted for your own sin - your fear of one candidate over another.
COMPROMISE
Romans 12:2
Do not be conformed to this age, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may discern what is the good, pleasing, and perfect will of God.
FEAR
II Timothy 1:7
For God has not given us a spirit of fearfulness, but one of power, love, and sound judgment.
So why, fellow Christians, did you give in to your fear?
So why, fellow Christians, did you compromise your values?
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Monday, November 19, 2012
NAGA Wrap Up - Nov. 2012
This past weekend, I had two students compete at NAGA in Nashville.
Here is a photo of us, before the festivities, sporting our Fight-2-Night shirts.
If you like this blog, you will also like the blog of the owner of Fight-2-Night. The blog is called "Rican to the Right."
Pictured:
Back row, Right to Left -
Me, Xerxes, Alex, Richard
Front row, Right to Left -
Michael, Sarah, Deborah, Lee, Jennifer
Results - Click here to see the official results from NAGA.
Alex
Alex is 26 and competed only in the nogi beginner division at welterweight (160 - 169 lbs.). This division happened to be the largest at the entire event. Alex lost his first and only match. It was very close, but his opponent was better. His opponent happened to win the entire division, submitting everyone in the process. Alex had a near-finish with a guillotine choke at one point.
Sarah
Sarah is also 26 and competed in the beginner women's division lightweight (120 - 134 pounds). She won Gold in the nogi division. She won silver in the gi division - submitting opponents with armbars and triangles until losing via a cross choke to the gold medalist (whom she beat in nogi).
Both did well and I am proud of them both.
Here is a photo of us, before the festivities, sporting our Fight-2-Night shirts.
If you like this blog, you will also like the blog of the owner of Fight-2-Night. The blog is called "Rican to the Right."
Pictured:
Back row, Right to Left -
Me, Xerxes, Alex, Richard
Front row, Right to Left -
Michael, Sarah, Deborah, Lee, Jennifer
Results - Click here to see the official results from NAGA.
Alex
Alex is 26 and competed only in the nogi beginner division at welterweight (160 - 169 lbs.). This division happened to be the largest at the entire event. Alex lost his first and only match. It was very close, but his opponent was better. His opponent happened to win the entire division, submitting everyone in the process. Alex had a near-finish with a guillotine choke at one point.
Sarah
Sarah is also 26 and competed in the beginner women's division lightweight (120 - 134 pounds). She won Gold in the nogi division. She won silver in the gi division - submitting opponents with armbars and triangles until losing via a cross choke to the gold medalist (whom she beat in nogi).
Both did well and I am proud of them both.
Legislating Morality II
As a continuation, but this idea stands on its own, as well.
What went wrong? Why did Obama get re-elected? What did Romney do wrong? What could we have done to prevent this? Who is at fault?
There is evidence now that Romney won over more independents and much more of the moderate vote. However, in the same breath, over 3 million conservative Christian voters stayed home. Considering Romney's loss came down to much less that a million votes in key precincts, it is clear that running to the middle and being moderate did not help elect Romney.
Romney also got fewer conservative votes than Bush did in 2004.
Romney also got fewer Mormon votes (generally very conservative) than Bush.
What went wrong?
Conservatives went wrong.
A conservative candidate did not win the nomination. Romney won. If I had a penny for every time I heard or read the phrase "I may not agree totally with Romney, but..." - I'd have made enough money to actually pay for Obamacare.
Now, I am not crazy enough to think that you must agree 100% with a candidate to vote for them. That's just not feasible. However, you should have at least 50% in common with the candidate... if not 75%. Romney's consistent stances that agree with conservatism are about as numerous as Obama's. That is why a vote for Romney was a vote for Obama.
Also, we faced the fact that Obama is quite possibly the worst president in American history. If we had run a real moderate - like Lamar Alexander, for example - it would have been a landslide for the Republican.
Romney never was a moderate, even. He is a hardcore liberal.
I can hear your responses:
"But... but... Romney is in favor of business!"
The hell you say!
Obama is in favor of business, too. The two men simply disagree on which businesses will get the government favors and which will get the shaft.
No - this loss goes square on the shoulders of conservatives. Specifically those who compromised their values and voted for Romney anyways. There were other candidates who espouse conservatism - namely Gary Johnson and Virgil Goode. Of those, Johnson was on the ballot in all 50 states. Why not vote for them? If conservatives had decided to vote their conscience - to vote their VALUES, then Johnson would have won with 300+ electoral votes, and Romney and Obama would have split the vote.
I, therefore issue this challenge:
.
What went wrong? Why did Obama get re-elected? What did Romney do wrong? What could we have done to prevent this? Who is at fault?
There is evidence now that Romney won over more independents and much more of the moderate vote. However, in the same breath, over 3 million conservative Christian voters stayed home. Considering Romney's loss came down to much less that a million votes in key precincts, it is clear that running to the middle and being moderate did not help elect Romney.
Romney also got fewer conservative votes than Bush did in 2004.
Romney also got fewer Mormon votes (generally very conservative) than Bush.
What went wrong?
Conservatives went wrong.
A conservative candidate did not win the nomination. Romney won. If I had a penny for every time I heard or read the phrase "I may not agree totally with Romney, but..." - I'd have made enough money to actually pay for Obamacare.
Now, I am not crazy enough to think that you must agree 100% with a candidate to vote for them. That's just not feasible. However, you should have at least 50% in common with the candidate... if not 75%. Romney's consistent stances that agree with conservatism are about as numerous as Obama's. That is why a vote for Romney was a vote for Obama.
Also, we faced the fact that Obama is quite possibly the worst president in American history. If we had run a real moderate - like Lamar Alexander, for example - it would have been a landslide for the Republican.
Romney never was a moderate, even. He is a hardcore liberal.
I can hear your responses:
"But... but... Romney is in favor of business!"
The hell you say!
Obama is in favor of business, too. The two men simply disagree on which businesses will get the government favors and which will get the shaft.
No - this loss goes square on the shoulders of conservatives. Specifically those who compromised their values and voted for Romney anyways. There were other candidates who espouse conservatism - namely Gary Johnson and Virgil Goode. Of those, Johnson was on the ballot in all 50 states. Why not vote for them? If conservatives had decided to vote their conscience - to vote their VALUES, then Johnson would have won with 300+ electoral votes, and Romney and Obama would have split the vote.
I, therefore issue this challenge:
If you are really conservative,
then DO NOT compromise your values.
Vote your values!
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Sunday, November 18, 2012
Freedom!
"Everyone claims support for freedom. Too often, it is for one's own freedom, and not for others. Too many believe there must be limits on freedom."
- Ron Paul
From Ron Paul's last speech on the floor of Congress. Link to the speech, which starts at 2:08:45.
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Saturday, November 17, 2012
On Tyranny
"Saying we have a little tyranny is like saying a woman is a little pregnant.
Tyranny is tyranny."
- Ron Paul
From Ron Paul's last speech on the floor of Congress. Link to the speech, which starts at 2:08:45.
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Friday, November 16, 2012
On Paper
Some time ago, I posted an article about a Range Safety Officer who thought if you zero an AR15 at 25 yards, then you won't even be on paper at 100 yards. While the story is funny, and I posted links showing why he was totally wrong, I was challenged by a reader to do a scientific experiment to prove this man right or wrong.
So I did.
On a recent range trip, I took a basic AR15 - set up as an M16A2 clone - and decided to put this whole thing to the test.
First, I made sure it was zeroed at 25 yards:
With the 8/3 setting.
Second, I took the rifle to 100 yards, and fired a three-shot group.
I clicked the rifle down to the 100-yard zero (8/3 - 3 clicks) and fired.
The top of the dark circle was my point of aim.
Considering the 100-yard distance, the iron sights, and the cheap barrel and ammo, I'd say this 2 MOA group was pretty good.
The first three shots are labeled "1."
Also please note that I needed to take about 2 clicks left windage to be square on target. Fair. Still, that's a darn close zero coming from 25 yards, directly to 100 yards.
Yes, the target was on its side. The orientation below was correct for up and down.
Third, I went back to 100 yards, and set the iron sights on 8/3. Remember, this is an M16A2 clone - meaning it has a fixed carry handle with coarse 1 MOA adjustments. You can see I still needed to take 2 clicks of left windage to be on the dot.
In case you cannot tell, the inner rings in the black are 1" wide. The 7-ring and 6-ring are 1.5" wide. Looks about 3" high to me, and certainly not off paper.
Then I got an idea!
Fourth, just to prove a point, I moved back. Way back. There was another shooter, and he actually helped me come up with the idea. At that range, one could shoot from a pretty good distance. So I did.
I gave the sights two clicks of left windage. I figured I'd need it.
I did a quick range estimation. I estimated I was shooting from 400 yards. My fellow shooter's range finder dialed 396 yards. I will not argue it. At that range, each click of the knob adjusts the sight such that the bullet impact moves 4 inches. I set my sights to 8/3 + 3 clicks up in elevation. That is the 400-yard setting. It is indicated with a "4" on the elevation dial.
I aimed at what I thought would be the middle of the paper (couldn't really see it). My fellow shooter's man-sized silhouette looked to be half the width of my front sight post. My shot was taken from a sitting position. There was no sling in use, though I had it with me, in case I felt it would be needed. I did not rest the rifle. Just an ordinary sitting position.
The shot is the one marked with an "X."
Things learned:
1. I really like the USMC 300-yard battle sight zero. With a 300-yard zero, the bullet will be within 5" of the point of aim all the way out to 350 yards. Three clicks up on a 8/3 sight, and you are on the mark at 400 yards. I know this now without a doubt!
2. I really like the RIBZ. It allows me to have a precise point of aim = point of impact at ranges less than 300 yards. Here is a short list of approximates when using a 20" barrel:
- 25 yards - use (8/3 + 2).
- 25 yards with a carbine - use (8/3) or (6/3)
- 50 yards - use (8/3 - 2) to be within a half inch.
- 100 yards - use (8/3 - 3).
- 200 yards - use (8/3 - 2).
3. You can shoot to 400 yards in mild wind with cheap 55-grain ammo and a 1:9 twist government profile barrel in a $557 AR15. A rifleman is up to the task. Are you?
4. Walking 400 yards to check a target after each shot would tire many people out quickly. (That distance is nearly 1/4 of a mile)
5. Sighting your AR in at 25 yards is not going to mean you are off paper at 100. In fact, it is an excellent starting point to obtain a 100-yard, and then a 300+ yard zero.
6. I'd still rather have a scope of some sort at that range.
7. Don't believe what you hear. Investigate and experiment. Look it up. Likely chance someone else investigated before you. At the least, you will have a good place to start.
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So I did.
On a recent range trip, I took a basic AR15 - set up as an M16A2 clone - and decided to put this whole thing to the test.
First, I made sure it was zeroed at 25 yards:
With the 8/3 setting.
Second, I took the rifle to 100 yards, and fired a three-shot group.
I clicked the rifle down to the 100-yard zero (8/3 - 3 clicks) and fired.
The top of the dark circle was my point of aim.
Considering the 100-yard distance, the iron sights, and the cheap barrel and ammo, I'd say this 2 MOA group was pretty good.
The first three shots are labeled "1."
Also please note that I needed to take about 2 clicks left windage to be square on target. Fair. Still, that's a darn close zero coming from 25 yards, directly to 100 yards.
Yes, the target was on its side. The orientation below was correct for up and down.
Third, I went back to 100 yards, and set the iron sights on 8/3. Remember, this is an M16A2 clone - meaning it has a fixed carry handle with coarse 1 MOA adjustments. You can see I still needed to take 2 clicks of left windage to be on the dot.
In case you cannot tell, the inner rings in the black are 1" wide. The 7-ring and 6-ring are 1.5" wide. Looks about 3" high to me, and certainly not off paper.
Then I got an idea!
Fourth, just to prove a point, I moved back. Way back. There was another shooter, and he actually helped me come up with the idea. At that range, one could shoot from a pretty good distance. So I did.
I gave the sights two clicks of left windage. I figured I'd need it.
I did a quick range estimation. I estimated I was shooting from 400 yards. My fellow shooter's range finder dialed 396 yards. I will not argue it. At that range, each click of the knob adjusts the sight such that the bullet impact moves 4 inches. I set my sights to 8/3 + 3 clicks up in elevation. That is the 400-yard setting. It is indicated with a "4" on the elevation dial.
I aimed at what I thought would be the middle of the paper (couldn't really see it). My fellow shooter's man-sized silhouette looked to be half the width of my front sight post. My shot was taken from a sitting position. There was no sling in use, though I had it with me, in case I felt it would be needed. I did not rest the rifle. Just an ordinary sitting position.
The shot is the one marked with an "X."
Things learned:
1. I really like the USMC 300-yard battle sight zero. With a 300-yard zero, the bullet will be within 5" of the point of aim all the way out to 350 yards. Three clicks up on a 8/3 sight, and you are on the mark at 400 yards. I know this now without a doubt!
2. I really like the RIBZ. It allows me to have a precise point of aim = point of impact at ranges less than 300 yards. Here is a short list of approximates when using a 20" barrel:
- 25 yards - use (8/3 + 2).
- 25 yards with a carbine - use (8/3) or (6/3)
- 50 yards - use (8/3 - 2) to be within a half inch.
- 100 yards - use (8/3 - 3).
- 200 yards - use (8/3 - 2).
3. You can shoot to 400 yards in mild wind with cheap 55-grain ammo and a 1:9 twist government profile barrel in a $557 AR15. A rifleman is up to the task. Are you?
4. Walking 400 yards to check a target after each shot would tire many people out quickly. (That distance is nearly 1/4 of a mile)
5. Sighting your AR in at 25 yards is not going to mean you are off paper at 100. In fact, it is an excellent starting point to obtain a 100-yard, and then a 300+ yard zero.
6. I'd still rather have a scope of some sort at that range.
7. Don't believe what you hear. Investigate and experiment. Look it up. Likely chance someone else investigated before you. At the least, you will have a good place to start.
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Legislating Morality I
There has been much hand-wringing and fretting since President Obama won re-election. Now, potential voter fraud aside, let's talk about why Republicans lost.
Compromise.
The American public does not like those who compromise their position, as this is a clear sign of weakness. Being "for" something before you were "against" it is a terrible way to seek office. To be fair, the only issue that the President has flip-flopped on has been the one of gay marriage: which is a side issue at best in most places.
Yet, Romney had a flip-flop statement on taxes, abortion, gun rights, you name it. It seemed like almost everything. Here was the former governor of Massachusetts (a position you do not win by being conservative) all-of-a-sudden trying to appear conservative. People knew better.
People knew better, and the "lesser of two evils" crowd within the conservative movement is a dying breed, and for good reason: voting for the lesser of two evils is still voting for evil, and that is not conservative.
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Compromise.
The American public does not like those who compromise their position, as this is a clear sign of weakness. Being "for" something before you were "against" it is a terrible way to seek office. To be fair, the only issue that the President has flip-flopped on has been the one of gay marriage: which is a side issue at best in most places.
Yet, Romney had a flip-flop statement on taxes, abortion, gun rights, you name it. It seemed like almost everything. Here was the former governor of Massachusetts (a position you do not win by being conservative) all-of-a-sudden trying to appear conservative. People knew better.
People knew better, and the "lesser of two evils" crowd within the conservative movement is a dying breed, and for good reason: voting for the lesser of two evils is still voting for evil, and that is not conservative.
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Thursday, November 15, 2012
Calvinist Corner - November 2012
Calvinism is not Biblical Doctrine. It's a human
philosophy that appeals to proud-minded individuals.
Unconditional Election
Calvinists think that God elects (or predestines) people for salvation. By default, if true, this would also mean that God predestines some
for Hell. Of all the notions in Calvinism, this is the most asinine
piece of garbage that has ever been put to paper.
Total refute: John 3:16
By the way, for the link above, I linked to the ESV. Normally, I do not use this translation, as it is not a true translation, but it is rather a translation conceived by Calvinists, for Calvinists, to push their false agenda. However, even they cannot lie enough to overturn this one verse, which just so happened to be the verse that the late Dr. Adrian Rogers used to refute predestination.“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life."
"whosoever"
"... that whosoever believes should not perish, but have eternal life." Doesn't look to me like it is God's choice as to who gets saved: looks like He leaves the choice to us.
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