Want: Chiappa Rhino

I know I am coming in late to talk about the Chiappa Rhino. The last Gun Show I attended was my first chance to actually handle one and talk to people about it.

I have a Ruger SP101 .357 revolver that has been my favorite wheel gun for years. This gun might take that flag position in the safe if I ever manage to shoot one.

Revolvers have not changed much design wise in many moons. The Rhino is different in many ways. Most notable the bullet that fires does so from the BOTTOM of the drum, not the top. This fundamental change combined with the new ergonomics of the grip will completely change how the recoil feels.

I can't wait too shoot one. In stead of the usual recoil that causes the gun to rise, it pushes straight back. At least that is what "the Guy" at the Gun Show said. You know that guy, the one that wants to sell me a Rhino...

It comes in various configurations, materials and barrel lengths.

--I am sure if I fire one, I will buy one.

Fighting the Flinch

There are lots of methods people use to help them defeat the reflex to flinch. My method was so effective that now I don't even blink my eyes when I shoot my Glock 21.

It's not complicated. All it takes is time and money.

Just fire 500 rounds of .44 magnum.

I have a Smith & Wesson Model 629-2 Classic Hunter.

The violence conveyed on the user end of this gun is dramatic to say the least. Impressive may be a better word. The recoil combined with the fireball and the general concussion of the thing usually, literally, shakes the dust from the rafters.

When I put 50 rounds through this little beast and then shoot my .45acp, it feels like a .22lr.

--Plus it is HUGE bruising fun.

The SGL12 Jam-Fest

On Sunday when I went to the NRA Range with a pile of Blog Buddies, one of the guns I took along was my new Saiga SGL12-03.

They allow shotguns there if you are using slugs. I had 20 rounds to run through it and set about it with a smile. The sights are spot on at 50 feet. Nice big holes right where I want them.

Until it started jamming.

In total, there were nine jams out of twenty rounds. None of the first five jammed, all of the last five jammed. All were failures to eject. The recoil could not cycle the machine far enough. Like the spring was too strong.

--For now I believe all I should do is give it a good cleaning and lube. Lather, rinse, repeat. Break it in...

My Latest Project

I have a Saiga SGL12-03, 12 gauge shotgun. This is how it looked when I got it. In the following weeks I began customizing it. No real gun smithing. Just swapping out furniture.


I started with a new adjustable stock with pistol grip, a drop-fore-grip, , new trigger, hammer and spring assembly. Then I will be getting some of the highest capacity magazines available. Enough American parts will get exchanged to ensure 922R compliance. It's actually kind of funny that compliance kits have become market.


Here is how it looks today. The barrel on this model is already threaded so I think I will get a Breacher Muzzle Break.

--This thing is a shit-storm as is. More later as upgrades occur...

Bloggers, Boomsticks and Burgers

On Sunday February 20th a pile of bloggers got together. We all live within easy driving distance of the NRA HQ Range!

NRA Range lanes are excellent.
TBolt, Newbius, Bus Err, Old NFO, myself and my son GM were there sharing three lanes. 

I go to the NRA Range a lot and knew that it has been crowded lately. It opens at 8:30am on Sundays so we got there at 7:45am and there were already five people in line. By the time time the doors opened there were about 50 people waiting.

None of us had ever met Andy from Bus Err before today, so we almost missed him. I spent time making a fool of myself walking around saying, "Hey, are any of you guys named Andy?" and gave up eventually.

Much lead was sent down range (more in that later).

We went to the Firearms Museum after we were done shooting. I always enjoy it. Andy caught up with us there in time to join us for lunch. It was great chatting with all.

--Old NFO is a gentleman and scholar! Thanks for lunch!

WANT: A Western Set

I have been thinking about getting a set of western style guns. A classic three gun system. A handgun, rifle and a shotgun. I'd keep them simple with just the plain iron sights, wood stocks and grips.


I would get modern calibers for the however. This Ruger SBH  comes in .44 mag as does the classic Marlin lever action. I like the commonality of ammo. I also like the .44 mag round from a western style grip. The way it rocks up with the recoil is nice. Plus, a .44 mag is sweet for hunting deer from a rifle.
A classic double barrel 12 gauge shotgun is always good to have. Even if it's just so you can say, "Alright you Primitive Screwheads, listen up! You see this? This... is my boomstick!"

--Plus a sweet western holster.

When Things Really Heat Up

ArmaLite AR10B Rifle
Armalite AR-10B

One of the things I like about the NRA Range is that they will let you mag dump. Rapid fire a lot of ammo continuously. Even a mag dump on my AR-10B. Mag dump 12 mags, in a row, non stop in less than 5 minutes.

The test was intended to see if it would have any failures when it was really hot. When the Killer Robot Uprising hits I wouldn't want a problem.

The good news is that 240 rounds shot quickly had no failures at all. The accuracy of the rifle did not degrade at all. I was surprised that my own accuracy didn't degrade after getting hammered 240 times.

The bad news was the fore grip became so HOT I was unable to touch it at the end of the test. Not just the Barrel, the grip. The first and last mag was done from a sandbag. I mean HOT. This was not good.

Click me for a closer look
The way I mitigated the heat issue was a an adjustable grip on the hand guard. I am amazed how much more comfortable it is to shoot as well. I usually don't have the quick attach bipod on the rifle.

About the AR-10B:


"Built as a tribute to early ArmaLite configurations, the ArmaLite AR10B rifle is truly a classic. With the unique charging handle in the carry handle and brown Sudanese-style furniture, the ArmaLite AR10B rifle has all the classic features of original ArmaLite AR10s with modern upgrades and feel. Sporting an elevation scale window, the ArmaLite AR10B rifle also features:"
  • Caliber: .308/7.62mm
  • Barrel Length: 20” Chrome lined
  • Total Length: 41”
  • Weight: 9.5 lbs.
  • Rifling Twist: RH 1:11.25”
  • Sights: A2 Front Sight Assembly
"The ArmaLite AR10B rifle also offers a two stage tactical trigger, a hard anodized aluminum and manganese phosphated steel finish, and a spring loaded automatic ejection port. The ArmaLite AR10B rifle is a high-quality, vintage-style firearm." 

--JayG will be glad to know that I DO have the bayonet!!

Reminder: Blog Shoot This Sunday

On Sunday, Feb. 20, We are going to go shooting!

There's a general plan for a gun blogger enthusiast meetup at the NRA HQ in Fairfax, VA. The idea is to hit the NRA range early at 8:30 in the morning so we don't have to wait, then tour the NRA firearms museum, and then find some local place to eat lunch.  All are welcome.

If you have never been to the NRA HQ Range before you have to take their test and get my range ID before you can shoot. More details later!

--Get there early there is only 15 lane and we want to be in the first hour!

Killer Robots in the News

You guys think I am crazy when I start talking about the Killer Robot Uprising. I keep showing you evidence! Don't you watch Jeopardy!?

Now more Autonomous Killer Robot Sentries!!


--Remember: .308 or heavier for Killer Robots!!

Keepin the Bugger Hook Off The Bang Switch

Courtland Milloy is a Washington Post Staff Writer. Unlike most journalists that write about guns, he actually found someone that knew what he was doing and went to the range. On Wednesday, February 16, 2011 the Post published his article:

Gun safety starts with finger off the trigger

"With efforts underway to make carrying a concealed weapon legal in the District, I wanted to know what kind of training you'd need to do so safely. George Lyon, who is among those leading the charge, offered to give me a primer." 

--I wish more journalists would give it a try. (hat tip to SayUncle for the booger hook thing)

Been thinking about Top Shot


In the Top Shot competition, during the first episode, where they were shooting the pool balls I was amazed about how crappy they were shooting. These shooters were way better than this.

We were chatting about it at work and our theory was that the run just before they shot put them off. All it takes is a small change in a shooters breathing, a small shake of the hand. Anything that changes up the conditions. I think when you combine this with time pressure you get misses.

It illustrates that you need to practice in all kinds of conditions. Tired, cold, hot, sleepy, buzzing on caffeine or adrenaline,  standing, sitting, moving, light, dark, anything really.

--Fun stuff.

Bipods

Some tools really help me with my accuracy. I love bipods.

The Picitinny based, quick detach, bipods that are currently available are really good quality for modest cash.

My Savage 110FP does not have any Picitinny rails on it so I installed a bipod via a swivel stud mount. The bipod was easily convertible, and quick to install. It makes my shooting so much better.

I don't recommend adding them to every rifle in the safe. They add a lot of front weight if I am not actually using it and it's just folded up.

--Two legs is better than none!

Top Shot Season 2

I love this show.

It makes shooting look fun and positive and dammit I want to do those challenges.

I would pay money to do a series of shoots like that with a variety of firearms.

Last year they were heavy on Beretta 9mm handguns for competitions and even the vote shooting. This season, at least in episode number one it was 1911s!

Breda, JayG and TBolt need to go on this show!

I know they will still have the same high school drama crap. But it's fun to watch, like a car wreck.

--Don't judge me...

Went to the Nations Gun Show

Damn it was crowded. I drove by on Friday at 3:30pm and the line was half a mile long. At $12 a head to get in it gets steeper and steeper. It has to be a fire code violation to pack that many people into the Expo Center.

I heard Saturday was the same but worse.

So my Son and I went Sunday afternoon. Still packed, asses to elbows. AKs a plenty for under $400. Thousands of "scary black guns".  More women than ever. All trends I like. Overheard conversations were cracking me up. I over heard multiple conversations about "Real vs Range" guns, or "Real vs Hobby" guns or "Work vs Play" guns. People must be reading gun blogs.  I need to post about that too.

I was mostly looking at AR15s for my next light rig. The one I liked the subjective feel of most was the Smith & Wesson Model M&P PSX. Several were priced at $895, which was way below MSRP.

My friend T-Bolt will be interested to know that I saw an orginal DeLisle for $2200. It was the first time I ever saw one in person. When I was about to take a pic of it with my cell phone the guy had a "Dude, No Pictures" conniption. Oh well.

--Glocks, ARs, and AKs were flowing out of there by the hundreds.

One Week and Counting!

One week from today, on Sunday, Feb. 20, We are going to go shooting!

There's a general plan for a gun enthusiast meetup at the NRA HQ in Fairfax, VA. The idea is to hit the NRA range early at 8:30 in the morning so we don't have to wait, then tour the NRA firearms museum, and then find some local place to eat lunch.  All are welcome.

If you have never been to the NRA HQ Range before you have to take their test and get my range ID before you can shoot. More details later!

--Get there early there is only 15 lane and we want to be in the first hour!

Blogger Tools

I have been out of town for the last week. It was my father-in-laws funeral. It was busy and distracting and there was limited Internet access.
Totally un-gun related photo

But I managed to keep posting each day.

That was due to the fact the blogger tools allow the scheduling of postings. It's a great feature that makes it easier to take vacations and step away for various reasons.

It also makes it easy to strike while the iron is hot. When topics hit and the posting flows I can stack up the entries to keep it rolling. Which is great to help reach my goal of daily postings.


-- Fun stuff. Still enjoying this more than I thought possible!!

Looking at slings for my AR15 and AR10

For many years I have used the same kind of slings on all my rifles. Your standard two point sling. Mounted in the front and back. Great for a shoulder carry.

I just got a new single point sling.


Single-Point Slings
Not limited to use only with ARs, single-point slings are one of the most commonly used types of slings in Law Enforcement and Military environments.

They usually contain some kind of elastic material so that you can move your slung weapon freely and comfortably without having to make any adjustments to the sling itself. The weapon can bounce around if not secured.

Many rifles need mods to install a loop to attach the sling in the right spot.

Two-Point Slings
Two-point slings are most common among hunters that just need a plain sling to carry their AR or other hunting rifle around. This type of sling can also be used as a tactical sling as well. This config is one of the oldest style of slings. I have a ton if these slings. Most of my rifles have them. Several have handy quick detach couplers, Some have slip style adjustments. Some are just plain belt style.  I have many. When hunting in particular a sling is a must have when you have to walk a good distance. Those bull barrels get damn heavy!!

Three-Point Slings

There are even three point slings. They seem too complicated to me. I like the Keep It Simple Systems (KISS).

Sling Mounts
If you plan on using a single-point sling on your AR-15, you’ll need the appropriate mount if your rifle does not already have one. Here is a Yankee Hill Ambidextrous Carbine Sling Mount, pictured to the right.

A good sling, a good holster, a good pair of boots and a good carrier for your spare mags.

--Oh and a good knife!

Movie: The Other Guys

This movie was funny. It was a total 4 Rules Violation full time. Lots of car crashes and explosions. There was so much product placement it was nuts (Planters Nuts)!

The Miller Rating: 7/10



-- 1 2 3 Attack!

Sons of Guns

Sons of Guns showcases one of America's most skilled and creative gun works, Red Jacket Firearms, and its founder, Will Hayden. While pursuing its bread-and-butter work with customizing and improving AK-47's, the Baton Rouge-based team delves into the world of historic and classic weapons.  Cannons, M2s, even coffee grinding muskets.

Another good reason to watch is Stephanie Hayden,  Will's Daughter / Red Jacket Partner and Business Manager, Stephanie Hayden grew up learning about hunting and the outdoors from her dad Will. For her 18th birthday, Will made her his partner and the business manager for Red Jacket. I love watching her surprise customers with her knowledge of firearms. Now 25, she is known as the brains behind the Red Jacket operation. Brains are sooo Hott!

--Wednesdays at 9 PM. God I Love TiVo!!

Immediate Action Required!

Click Here: FEDERAL and AMERICAN EAGLE 45 AUTO PRODUCT SAFETY WARNING

Certain lots of recently manufactured 45 Auto ammunition may contain an incorrect propellant charge. Use of product from these lots may result in firearm damage and possible serious injury.

DO NOT USE PRODUCT FROM THE FOLLOWING LOTS:

If you have in your possession any 45 Auto with the following brand names and part numbers, check to see if your ammunition package contains the above lots:

American Eagle® (AE45A, AE45N1, or AE45A250), Champion™ (WM5233), GoldMedal® (GM45B), Hi-Shok® (45C, 45D) and Federal® Personal Defense® (C45C, C45D).

If you possess ammunition from any of these lots, or have questions concerning this warning, please contact us at 1-800-831-0850 or 1-800-322-2342 and ask for Product Service. Federal will provide replacement product and will cover the cost of returning the affected product.

38X628 through 38X765, 38T401 through 38T414.


FEDERAL CARTRIDGE COMPANY • 900 BOB EHLEN DRIVE • ANOKA, MN 55303 • PHONE 763.323.2300 • Toll Free: 1-800-322-2342 

--Check your Ammo now!

WANT: Walther PPS

This week I handled the Wather PPS (Police Pistol, Slim) in .40 cal. This is one of the slimmest .40's I have handled so far.

It comes factory-standard with a six-shot single-stack magazine and a seven-shot magazine with an extended base plate (shown in the photo). The gun is only a little bigger than the classic Walther PPK and certainly looks great.

It is very slim. This baby would be perfect for inside the waist band concealed carry. This combined with the .40 round makes it a man stopper.

The grips have adjustable plates you can swap out for the comfort tuning. It also has a slide lock unlike my P3AT.  Another interesting feature is the mag release lever is integrated into the finger guard.


-Handle one. You might like it!

I don't jump out of perfectly good planes.

550lb. Type III Paracord 100" BlackSome accessories and gear don't really have all that much to do with actual guns or shooting  but are still worthy of mention.

One of those items is simple Paracord.  This stuff is like duct tape. It is so handy that once you start keeping it on hand you'll wonder how you managed to get along without it.

You can get a 100 foot bundle for like $9 at most hardwares, sporting goods stores and even Amazon. 2100 foot roll can be had for less than $50!

--Get some. Keep it with your duct tape.

Trijicon Night Sights

Yesterday I forgot to mention that my Glock 21 has Trijicon Night Sights.

If you have never tried Tritium sights, try not to. If you do you will want them on all your firearms. In low light situations they are the best I have tried so far.

These are not cast, they are made from milled steel and they must be installed by a gunsmith. Don't go cheap on the gunsmith either.

They don't change the profile of the gun and they add so much utility they are worth it.

--Remember, Zombies are most likely to attacked in the dark!

Glock 21 Holster

I'm a Glock guy. If the S#!t hit the fan my Glock 21 would be my goto gun.

One of the good things and bad things about the gun is that it is hot if there is one in the pipe. No extra safeties to flip, no hammer to draw, no clicky sounds to make like in the movies. Pull the trigger and BAM.

If you want to carry in a ready mode it is very important to have a really good holster. Make sure it protects the trigger fully. One stray branch in the woods could ruin your day otherwise.

I have a ITAC Paddle Holster. This holster is very comfortable and the Glock locks into place. Drawing the gun is very easy and natural by depressing the button where my finger naturally rests. It's fully adjustable for cant, that's adjustable with an allen key and has a protective sight channel.

It rides nice and has a matching 2 magazine holder. You can run while wearing it, which is important during a killer robot uprising.

--It won't cost you an arm and a leg either.

Range Date!

Two weeks from today, on Sunday, Feb. 20, We are going to go shooting!.

There's a general plan for a gun enthusiast meetup at the NRA HQ in Fairfax, VA. The idea is to hit the NRA range early at 8:30 in the morning so we don't have to wait, then tour the NRA firearms museum, and then find some local place to eat lunch.  All are welcome.

If you have never been to the NRA HQ Range before you have to take their test and get my range ID before you can shoot. More details later!

--Get there early there is only 15 lane and we want to be in the first hour!

The Collection: Savage 110FP

As you know, I name all my guns. I'd like to introduce, Fred. If I have to tell you why, go rent The Princess Bride again.

Fred is a .308 Savage 110FP which is the tactical version of the classic model 110. These are modestly priced but can still give me a 2 inch group at 300 yards and I never considered myself a serious marksman.

I bought a very nice Bausch and Lomb 6x-12x scope and quality rings for the rifle. The bipod is a must have. The action on Fred is simple and reliable. I have felt better triggers but I am not that picky.

I have harvested so many deer with this rifle I have lost count. In fact, the very first deer I got, EVER, was with Freds help. That's another story.

My best shot with this rifle was a buck at 457 yards. Far enough away that I could not see the deer with my naked eye.

-- I might upgrade the stock one day. But not today...

Design Features Planning

I am beginning to design the architecture of my next AR-15. I learned a lot building Alice, my current AR-15. She is pretty much the kitchen sink. The bull barrel, LASER, Tac light, EOTech, 3x flip in magnifier, metal quad-rail all add up making her heavy.

The next one will be light. Low weight will be the theme. Below is the setup I am thinking of so far.

I like the fore grip because of barrel heat and squeeze activation for a dot scope. Add flip up sights, light adjustable stock, light barrel and the carbine is done!


Let me have your recommendations. I like the DPMS I have but there is nothing to compare.

--Name recommendations are welcome as well!

Tactical Pants

I finally bought a pair of pants from tacticalpants.com and I love them.

It's like they knew I had a Kel-Tec P-3AT and made a pocket specially for it. Plus another pocket on the opposite side with inner pockets for a couple extra mags.

It also has perfect pockets for my multi-tool, flashlight and Altoids Tin.

Small details like belt loop locations that make IWB carry perfect.

--Tactical Pants. Not just for Mall Ninjas anymore.