Gun Thread: First January Edition!

Howdy, Y'all! Welcome to the wondrously fabulous Gun Thread! As always, I want to thank all of our regulars for being here week in and week out, and also offer a bigly Gun Thread welcome to any newcomers who may be joining us tonight. Howdy and thank you for stopping by! I hope you find our wacky conversation on the subject of guns 'n shooting both enjoyable and informative. You are always welcome to lurk in the shadows of shame, but I'd like to invite you to jump into the conversation, say howdy, and tell us what kind of shooting you like to do!

Holy Shitballs! How in the ever-loving Hell did it get to be the First January Edition? For the last week your ol' pal Weasel has been nursing a head cold with varying degrees of success. I think it's on the way out, but still feel kind of sickly, pitiful and wee. If you hear snoring, it's me in bed with a box of Kleenex and two little dogs.

With that, step into the dojo and let's get to the gun stuff below, shall we?

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FUNdamentals

Did you make "faithful adherence to fundamentals" your New Year's resolution?

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Revolver Showdown!

With our pal 'Jer'

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What Is Headspace?

***

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Our Pal The Vernier Scale

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Brass Cleaning Ripoffs

**
More Telephone Relays!

Last week we had a look at wire spring type relays, and this week we look at U and Y type relays!!

***

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Ax Weasel

Q: Weasel, who invented the zip tie?
A: See below.

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Highway Patrol!

This week's episode: Stripped Cars!

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The Slime People!

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Build Your Own Cigar Chair!

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Here are some different online cigar vendors. You will find they not only carry different brands and different lines from those brands, but also varying selections of vitolas (sizes/shapes) of given lines. It's good to have options, especially if you're looking for a specific cigar.

Cigarsinternational.com
Cigarpage.com
Famous-smoke.com
Cigarsdaily.com
Neptunecigar.com
Smallbatchcigar.com
Bobalu Cigar Company
Cigarbid.com
Nicks Cigar World New!

A note about sources. The brick & mortar/online divide exists with cigars, as with guns, and most consumer products, with respect to price. As with guns - since both are "persecuted industries", basically - I make a conscious effort to source at least some of my cigars from my local store(s). It's a small thing, but the brick & mortar segment for both guns and tobacco are precious, and worth supporting where you can. And if you're lucky enough to have a good cigar store/lounge available, they're often a good social event with many dangerous people of the sort who own scary gunz, or read smart military blogs like this one. -rhomboid

Anyone have others to include? Perhaps a small local roller who makes a cigar you like? Send me your recommendation and a link to the site!

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Ammo Link-O-Rama
I'm really very seriously not kidding around anymore. Buy Ammo
AmmoSeek - online ammo search tool
GunBot - online ammo search tool
SG Ammo
Palmetto State Armory
Georgia Arms
AmmoMan
Target Sports USA
Bud's Gun Shop
American Elite Ammo
Lucky Gunner Ammo NEW!

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Please note the new and improved protonmail account gunthread at protonmail dot com. An informal Gun Thread archive can be found HERE. Future expansion plans are in the works for the site Weasel Gun Thread. If you have a question you would like to ask Gun Thread Staff offline, just send us a note and we'll do our best to answer. If you care to share the story of your favorite firearm, send a picture with your nic and tell us what you sadly lost in the tragic canoe accident. If you would like to remain completely anonymous, just say so. Lurkers are always welcome!

That's it for this week - have you been to the range?

Posted by: Weasel at 07:00 PM

Comments

(Jump to bottom of comments)

1 Good evening everyone

Posted by: Skip at January 04, 2026 07:00 PM (Ia/+0)

2 1

Posted by: Reforger at January 04, 2026 07:00 PM (gKsV+)

3 one out

Posted by: Eromero at January 04, 2026 07:00 PM (LHPAg)

4 Greetings and Felicitations!!!

Posted by: Scuba_Dude at January 04, 2026 07:00 PM (QdaMw)

5 Mrs. E was talking to me about meatloaf, threw my aim off.

Posted by: Eromero at January 04, 2026 07:02 PM (LHPAg)

6 Bang!

Posted by: Bang! at January 04, 2026 07:02 PM (vFG9F)

7 I could have been first but I was trying to think of something witty.

Posted by: Bang! at January 04, 2026 07:03 PM (vFG9F)

8 Hello, Weasel!

Posted by: Ed L at January 04, 2026 07:04 PM (BCwQW)

9 Sadly no range report but I did experience a sudden lightening of the wallet.
No, it is not because I live in the Peoples Republic of NYS and NYC.
This was self inflicted by purchasing something to go along with the scope I acquired back in October.

With luck I will take possession of this object Friday. :-)

Posted by: Scuba_Dude at January 04, 2026 07:05 PM (QdaMw)

10 Greetings and Felicitations!!!
Posted by: Scuba_Dude at January 04, 2026 07:00 PM

Salutations!

Posted by: RedMindBlueState at January 04, 2026 07:05 PM (Wnv9h)

11 Evening shootists!

Posted by: Diogenes at January 04, 2026 07:06 PM (2WIwB)

12 My new Armi San Marco 1860 Colt reproduction
https://tinyurl.com/2xdyjke9
44 cal

Posted by: Skip at January 04, 2026 07:06 PM (Ia/+0)

13 Evenin', Weasel san.

Posted by: RedMindBlueState at January 04, 2026 07:06 PM (Wnv9h)

14 Pondered loading blanks with it New Year eve but didn't stay up for the neighborhood fireworks

Posted by: Skip at January 04, 2026 07:07 PM (Ia/+0)

15 I thought George Zip invented the Zip tie.

Posted by: Bertram Cabot, Jr. at January 04, 2026 07:08 PM (pkeXY)

16 Nothing witty to say: here I am, anyway.

Posted by: NemoMeImpuneLacessit at January 04, 2026 07:08 PM (0Mn7M)

17 https://tinyurl.com/2xdyjke9
The tinyurl.com didn't copy

Posted by: Skip at January 04, 2026 07:08 PM (Ia/+0)

18 "in bed with a box of Kleenex and two little dogs"

Just as long as you don't get them confused. Hard to clean snot out of dog fur.

Posted by: mindful webworker - rabbit? at January 04, 2026 07:09 PM (dESj/)

19 The tinyurl.com didn't copy
Posted by: Skip at January 04, 2026 07:08 PM (Ia/+0)
---
Thank you

Posted by: Weasel at January 04, 2026 07:10 PM (DJPFk)

20 "in bed with a box of Kleenex and two little dogs"

Just as long as you don't get them confused. Hard to clean snot out of dog fur.
Posted by: mindful webworker - rabbit? at January 04, 2026 07:09 PM

That's why I use cats.

Posted by: toby928(c) at January 04, 2026 07:12 PM (jc0TO)

21 5 Mrs. E was talking to me about meatloaf, threw my aim off.

Posted by: Eromero at January 04, 2026 07:02 PM

Well, I am glad to see that you still have your priorities straight!

Hard to beat a good meatloaf.

Posted by: Pillage Idiot at January 04, 2026 07:12 PM (HlyYF)

22 We had a live fire exercise in Venezuela. It was a blast.

Posted by: SFOD-D at January 04, 2026 07:12 PM (vhFJq)

23 For the last week your ol' pal Weasel has been nursing a head cold with varying degrees of success.

Remember Weasel, Starve a Cold, Feed a Fever.

Posted by: Scuba_Dude at January 04, 2026 07:13 PM (QdaMw)

24 With luck I will take possession of this object Friday. :-)

Posted by: Scuba_Dude at January 04, 2026 07:05 PM

Howdy Scoobs!

Good to see that you and 30,000,000 Venezuelans are still getting closer to freedom.

Posted by: Pillage Idiot at January 04, 2026 07:14 PM (HlyYF)

25 Apropos of nothing, could we say that Eugene Stoner is the successor to John Moses Brown, pbuh, in the American pantheon of gun designers? Admittedly, he was more of a synthesizer than an inventor but still, huge impact.

I probably should ask this on the Gub Thread.
Posted by: toby928(c) at January 04, 2026 01:33 PM

Posted by: toby928(c) repeats himself at January 04, 2026 07:14 PM (jc0TO)

26 I thought George Zip invented the Zip tie.
Posted by: Bertram Cabot, Jr. at January 04, 2026 07:08 PM

It wasn't Augustus Heatherton Zyp-Tye...of the Hampshire Zip-Tyes?

Posted by: RedMindBlueState at January 04, 2026 07:16 PM (Wnv9h)

27 I have wanted a cap and ball revolver since I was a kid, and as a guy says on a different forum, " Its never too late for a happy childhood "

Posted by: Skip at January 04, 2026 07:16 PM (Ia/+0)

28 17 https://tinyurl.com/2xdyjke9
The tinyurl.com didn't copy

Posted by: Skip at January 04, 2026 07:08 PM

Congrats Skip!

However, based upon your photo, I suspect that gun was manufactured in Australia.

Posted by: Pillage Idiot at January 04, 2026 07:16 PM (HlyYF)

29 I thought the saying was “bourbon for a fever, scotch for a cold”?

Posted by: SFOD-D at January 04, 2026 07:17 PM (vhFJq)

30 22 We had a live fire exercise in Venezuela. It was a blast.

Posted by: SFOD-D at January 04, 2026 07:12 PM

Apparently, that exercise had some damn fine RSOs since there currently appear to be zero significant casualties!

Posted by: Pillage Idiot at January 04, 2026 07:18 PM (HlyYF)

31 Howdy!

Posted by: Puddleglum, drive by pew pew at January 04, 2026 07:20 PM (sAmhv)

32 Currently two wounded in hospital. They will survive.

Posted by: SFOD-D at January 04, 2026 07:20 PM (vhFJq)

33 >>> What Is Headspace?

We could ask an AI the question and have it answer in the style of Kamalala Harris - repeat the question in numerous forms with random word orders but never actually answer. Finish with a jaring cackle.

Posted by: Itinerant Alley Butcher at January 04, 2026 07:21 PM (/lPRQ)

34 I don't know why pictures are reversed sometimes, I have to send my timesheet in taking a picture of it and sometimes its upside down

Posted by: Skip at January 04, 2026 07:22 PM (Ia/+0)

35 Watched the headspace video and the brass cleaning ripoffs. Learn something new every day!!

Posted by: Scuba_Dude at January 04, 2026 07:23 PM (QdaMw)

36
https://tinyurl.com/2xdyjke9
The tinyurl.com didn't copy
Posted by: Skip at January 04, 2026 07:08 PM

Congrats Skip!
However, based upon your photo, I suspect that gun was manufactured in Australia.
Posted by: Pillage Idiot

That's how they hold 'em in the hood.

Posted by: Bertram Cabot, Jr. at January 04, 2026 07:23 PM (pkeXY)

37 Here. The expired frozen pizza took longer than expected.

Posted by: RI Red at January 04, 2026 07:23 PM (LMRVO)

38 >> I don't know why pictures are reversed sometimes, I have to send my timesheet in taking a picture of it and sometimes its upside down

Stand on your head when you take the picture. I read that somewhere.

Posted by: SFOD-D at January 04, 2026 07:23 PM (vhFJq)

39 Holy Shitballs! How in the ever-loving Hell did it get to be the First January Edition?

youtu.be/WuXwSyahgW4

Posted by: Puddleglum, drive by pew pew at January 04, 2026 07:23 PM (sAmhv)

40 Go ahead, Scoobs. Tell them what you got!

Posted by: RI Red at January 04, 2026 07:24 PM (LMRVO)

41 32 Currently two wounded in hospital. They will survive.

Posted by: SFOD-D at January 04, 2026 07:20 PM

Thanks for their service and bravery.

Purple hearts and Silver Stars for them, you think?

Posted by: Pillage Idiot at January 04, 2026 07:26 PM (HlyYF)

42 Here. The expired frozen pizza took longer than expected.
Posted by: RI Red at January 04, 2026 07:23 PM (LMRVO)
---
Did you take it out back and put it out of its misery?

Posted by: "Perfessor" Squirrel at January 04, 2026 07:26 PM (ESVrU)

43 Go ahead, Scoobs. Tell them what you got!
Posted by: RI Red at January 04, 2026 07:24 PM (LMRVO)
-----
Maybe that's between Scoob and his doctor or pharmacist.

Posted by: Weasel at January 04, 2026 07:27 PM (DJPFk)

44 BLAM BLAM
BLAM!

Hi weasel! Thank you for the thread.

Range time with son #1 yesterday. He did well. I shot ok. We had breakfast together afterwards.

Seahawks beat the Niners.

Very good day.

Posted by: nurse ratched at January 04, 2026 07:27 PM (IhIKR)

45 Btw,

Electric blankets are the snizzle.

Posted by: nurse ratched at January 04, 2026 07:28 PM (IhIKR)

46 Nurse!

Posted by: RedMindBlueState at January 04, 2026 07:28 PM (Wnv9h)

47 Did you take it out back and put it out of its misery?
Posted by: "Perfessor" Squirrel at January 04, 2026 07:26 PM (ESVrU)

Worse, I cannibalized it.
With a fine Chianti.

Posted by: RI Red at January 04, 2026 07:28 PM (LMRVO)

48 40 Go ahead, Scoobs. Tell them what you got!

Posted by: RI Red at January 04, 2026 07:24 PM

Ok.

Purchased a Tikka T3x TAC A1 in 6.5 Creedmoor with a 24 inch barrel.

I wanted to one in Coyote Brown but found out that is only available in Europe. (Bahstads!!), so I had to get it in black.

I will not get a muzzle brake for the rifle as I am hoping in 2 years to be able to slap a suppressor on it.

Posted by: Scuba_Dude at January 04, 2026 07:29 PM (QdaMw)

49 34 I don't know why pictures are reversed sometimes,

Posted by: Skip at January 04, 2026 07:22 PM

Apple is evil?

(I was just joshing you above, BECAUSE that problem is so common.)

Posted by: Pillage Idiot at January 04, 2026 07:29 PM (HlyYF)

50 Posted by: nurse ratched at January 04, 2026 07:27 PM (IhIKR)
----
I heard! $55!

Posted by: Weasel at January 04, 2026 07:29 PM (DJPFk)

51 Electric blankets are the snizzle.
Posted by: nurse ratched at January 04, 2026 07:28 PM

Just hope it doesn't become the sizzle. That's hard to explain to your insurance company.

Posted by: RedMindBlueState at January 04, 2026 07:30 PM (Wnv9h)

52 Happy New Year!

Posted by: JSpicy at January 04, 2026 07:30 PM (C7Yya)

53 Happy New Year!
Posted by: JSpicy at January 04, 2026 07:30 PM (C7Yya)
------
Howdy Bro!

Posted by: Weasel at January 04, 2026 07:31 PM (DJPFk)

54 37 Here. The expired frozen pizza took longer than expected.

Posted by: RI Red at January 04, 2026 07:23 PM

I don't really give any advice on the Gub Thread, but I will take a shot tonight.

Pro tip: Once salmonella is actively growing on your expired food, you should cook it at least an extra 3 minutes!

/sarc off

Posted by: Pillage Idiot at January 04, 2026 07:32 PM (HlyYF)

55 RMBS!

You feeling better? Kimchee soup! That will fix you.

Posted by: nurse ratched at January 04, 2026 07:33 PM (IhIKR)

56 I will not get a muzzle brake for the rifle as I am hoping in 2 years to be able to slap a suppressor on it.
Posted by: Scuba_Dude at January 04, 2026 07:29 PM (QdaMw)

Dude!
I have the most excellent one I took off my Ruger when I got my can.
It ain’t being used. Just saying. Available for long term borrow.

Posted by: RI Red at January 04, 2026 07:33 PM (LMRVO)

57 47 Worse, I cannibalized it.
With a fine Chianti.

Posted by: RI Red at January 04, 2026 07:28 PM

Was it a fava bean topping?

Posted by: Scuba_Dude at January 04, 2026 07:34 PM (QdaMw)

58 Worse, I cannibalized it.
With a fine Chianti.
Posted by: RI Red at January 04, 2026 07:28 PM (LMRVO)
---
Excellent choice!

Posted by: H. Lector at January 04, 2026 07:34 PM (ESVrU)

59 Definitely a Purple Heart. Perhaps a Silver Star, maybe with a V device if warranted.

Posted by: SFOD-D at January 04, 2026 07:34 PM (vhFJq)

60 In bed with two dogs sounds like my old roommate! Times have changed. Hope everyone stays healthy. And takes time to focus on Fundamentals.

Posted by: JSpicy at January 04, 2026 07:35 PM (C7Yya)

61 SF was also fielding some new weapons. I suspect the OPFOR may have tasted some 6.5 and perhaps 6.8 for the first time.

Posted by: SFOD-D at January 04, 2026 07:36 PM (vhFJq)

62 RMBS!

You feeling better? Kimchee soup! That will fix you.
Posted by: nurse ratched at January 04, 2026 07:33 PM

I am, thanks!

I do that from time to time for a quick lunch. A little ramen, drain most of the liquid, add kimchee. Great stuff. Good for what ails you!

Posted by: RedMindBlueState at January 04, 2026 07:36 PM (Wnv9h)

63 56 Posted by: RI Red at January 04, 2026 07:33 PM

Check my email to you.

Posted by: Scuba_Dude at January 04, 2026 07:37 PM (QdaMw)

64 Happy New Year, gun thread Horde.

Posted by: Cosda at January 04, 2026 07:37 PM (tLOA9)

65 Had fun dressing up the new 10/22 CF.

Magpul bipod, Romeo5, sling, Volquartsen bolt release and soft buffer...

Sighted in @ 25 yards, and it's incredibly accurate. And a hoot to shoot...

Posted by: man at January 04, 2026 07:38 PM (XuXeR)

66 The TxMoMe kind of got me the bug to try some distance shooting. To that end, bought myself a Christmas present of a Ruger Precision rifle in 308. Took it out for a test drive today and found that, as expected, it's much more accurate than I am. Damn thing keeps putting rounds where I'm aiming rather than where I want them.

Posted by: Daggit at January 04, 2026 07:40 PM (dBS6O)

67 Ok. Riddle me this.

I get sight alignment and trigger pull.

But why stance? In what real world shooting situation will you be able to make stance a priority? You may be on one knee peering over a half wall, looking around a corner with your weight on your weak leg, moving sideways, backwards, or maneuvering a stairwell. I mean. I get planting your feet and being solid when you’re just standing at a line shooting holes in paper, but how is that a transferable skill to real life?

Not trying to be a troublemamker.

Posted by: nurse ratched at January 04, 2026 07:40 PM (IhIKR)

68 A wide stance is important.

Posted by: Larry Craig at January 04, 2026 07:43 PM (pkeXY)

69 I will not get a muzzle brake for the rifle as I am hoping in 2 years to be able to slap a suppressor on it.
Posted by: Scuba_Dude at January 04, 2026 07:29 PM (QdaMw)

Scoob, please keep an eye on suppressor tech because we've had a lot of changes in tech in recent years. When I bought my first suppressor five years ago, a lot of cans were still made of aluminum, which can't handle a lot of heat stress. Today, 3D printed cans are the norm and titanium is more widespread than it was. The weight and length of the can you choose will change the center of balance on a rifle w/ a 24" barrel.

Posted by: Ed L at January 04, 2026 07:44 PM (BCwQW)

70 Damn thing keeps putting rounds where I'm aiming rather than where I want them.

Posted by: Daggit at January 04, 2026 07:40 PM

Unfortunately, my firearms also suffer from that same malady.

I think the best solution is ... more TXMoMes.

Posted by: Pillage Idiot at January 04, 2026 07:45 PM (HlyYF)

71 Good Sunday evening, gub 'ettes and 'rons, and a special get-well-soon greeting to our host Weasel!

Posted by: Schnorflepuppy (OT but harmless) at January 04, 2026 07:47 PM (v23vE)

72 Damn thing keeps putting rounds where I'm aiming rather than where I want them.

Posted by: Daggit at January 04, 2026 07:40 PM

Unfortunately, my firearms also suffer from that same malady.

I think the best solution is ... more TXMoMes.
Posted by: Pillage Idiot at January 04, 2026 07:45 PM (HlyYF)

Hear, hear, a fine suggestion, that one is!

Posted by: Schnorflepuppy (OT but harmless) at January 04, 2026 07:47 PM (v23vE)

73 This weekend was the first gun show at Manassas Mall. We intended to go and got there on Friday as it was starting. It was hard to find a parking place and the line to get in was the equivalent of two city blocks. I suspect Saturday and today were worse. We can't comfortably walk and stand that long these days and left. We were only going to see how the show went in the new venue not because we need anything so no loss. At least we saved the entry fee.

Don't know if the crowds were just curious about the new place or are worried about what the newly elected A-holes in Richmond might pass and wanted to get ahead of any restrictive gun laws they promised to pass. Maybe both.

If any Horde members went, I would like to hear their opinions.

Posted by: JTB at January 04, 2026 07:47 PM (yTvNw)

74 Not trying to be a troublemamker.
Posted by: nurse ratched at January 04, 2026 07:40 PM (IhIKR)
----
Troublemaker.

Really, when you think about it, anyl elements of proper fundamentals; stance, grip, sight alignment and trigger mechanics might go out the window in a self-defense shooting, for example.

Posted by: Weasel at January 04, 2026 07:48 PM (+OnsA)

75 Merry Christmas (11th day) and Happy New Year to all
I really really hope to get more range time this year.

Posted by: GWB at January 04, 2026 07:48 PM (mjkSb)

76 The TxMoMe kind of got me the bug to try some distance shooting. To that end, bought myself a Christmas present of a Ruger Precision rifle in 308. Took it out for a test drive today and found that, as expected, it's much more accurate than I am. Damn thing keeps putting rounds where I'm aiming rather than where I want them.
Posted by: Daggit at January 04, 2026 07:40 PM

That's a fun bug to get bitten by.

Posted by: RedMindBlueState at January 04, 2026 07:48 PM (Wnv9h)

77 69 Posted by: Ed L at January 04, 2026 07:44 PM

Thanks for the advice Ed. Not worried about the balance of the rifle as it will sit on a bench or other solid surface. Definitely will NOT try to shoulder this to take a shot. ;-)

As far as materials I would lean towards getting a titanium can.
though who knows how the tech of 3D printing will be effected.
I am sure in the next 2 years there will be more improvement in suppressor tech. :-)

Posted by: Scuba_Dude at January 04, 2026 07:49 PM (QdaMw)

78 Hiya, S’puppy.

Hope you are doing ok.

Posted by: nurse ratched at January 04, 2026 07:49 PM (IhIKR)

79 Howdy Schnorfle!

Posted by: Pillage Idiot at January 04, 2026 07:49 PM (HlyYF)

80 Posted by: Schnorflepuppy (OT but harmless) at January 04, 2026 07:47 PM (v23vE)
---
Thanks bud!

Posted by: Weasel at January 04, 2026 07:49 PM (+OnsA)

81 72 I think the best solution is ... more TXMoMes.
Posted by: Pillage Idiot at January 04, 2026 07:45 PM (HlyYF)

Hear, hear, a fine suggestion, that one is!

Posted by: Schnorflepuppy (OT but harmless) at January 04, 2026 07:47 PM

I third this remark!!

How are you doing Schnor?

Posted by: Scuba_Dude at January 04, 2026 07:50 PM (QdaMw)

82 Not trying to be a troublemamker.
Posted by: nurse ratched at January 04, 2026 07:40 PM (IhIKR)
----
Troublemaker.

Really, when you think about it, anyl elements of proper fundamentals; stance, grip, sight alignment and trigger mechanics might go out the window in a self-defense shooting, for example.
Posted by: Weasel at January 04, 2026 07:48 PM (+OnsA)
----
I think a lot of it has to do with developing the necessary muscle memory so that you automatically revert to your training in those situations.

You no longer have to think about it, you instinctively just DO IT.

A lot of martial arts are based around this idea. Sure, you spend time standing in awkward funky positions, but then when you really, really need to use it, it's there at your fingertips to unleash explosive power and technique.

Posted by: "Perfessor" Squirrel at January 04, 2026 07:50 PM (ESVrU)

83 FIRST!!!!!

Posted by: Sponge - F*ck Cancer at January 04, 2026 07:51 PM (Zz0t1)

84 Evening Hordians.

Posted by: Sponge - F*ck Cancer at January 04, 2026 07:51 PM (Zz0t1)

85 Unfortunately, my firearms also suffer from that same malady.

I think the best solution is ... more TXMoMes.
Posted by: Pillage Idiot at January 04, 2026 07:45 PM

Sounds like someone's got a feevah. And the only prescription, is more TXMoMe!

Posted by: RedMindBlueState at January 04, 2026 07:51 PM (Wnv9h)

86 83 FIRST!!!!!

Posted by: Sponge - F*ck Cancer at January 04, 2026 07:51 PM

SPONGE!!!!!!!

Posted by: Scuba_Dude at January 04, 2026 07:51 PM (QdaMw)

87 Posted by: Sponge - F*ck Cancer at January 04, 2026 07:51 PM (Zz0t1)
----
Amigo! Good to see you!

Posted by: Weasel at January 04, 2026 07:51 PM (+OnsA)

88 Have a good night everyone

Posted by: Skip at January 04, 2026 07:52 PM (Ia/+0)

89 Posted by: "Perfessor" Squirrel at January 04, 2026 07:50 PM (ESVrU)
----
PS gets a gold star!

Posted by: Weasel at January 04, 2026 07:52 PM (+OnsA)

90 Last summer, Anderson Manufacturing, home of the "Poverty Pony" AR-15 and source of innumerable AR lower receivers for the home builder, shut down and was acquired by Ruger. As I expected, Ruger is now offering a mid-range AR-15 called the "Harrier" model.

Two trim levels are available now. One with an A2 grip, carbine-length gas system, and a M4 stock, retailing for $550, and the other has Magpul (surprise!) furniture and a mid-length gas system for $650. Both come without sights.

They will be a decent choice for the first-time AR buyer who wants the reassurance of buying a well known brand.

If I was adding another AR to the stable, I'd spend the extra money for the Magpul version to get the mid-length gas system.

The floor is now open to all those who wish to tell how they built their AR for only $99, by chiseling their own parts out of discarded soda cans, using only a claw hammer and a railroad spike.

Posted by: Idaho Spudboy at January 04, 2026 07:53 PM (YYotJ)

91 Good to see you all. I made a NYR to make more gun threads.

I'm keeping it so far.

Posted by: Sponge - F*ck Cancer at January 04, 2026 07:53 PM (Zz0t1)

92 O/T

Seeing reports multiple sources the government in Tehran will be in Moscow by sunrise.

Posted by: San Franpsycho at January 04, 2026 07:54 PM (RIvkX)

93 Really though.

Sight alignment, grip and trigger pull can become automatic with enough practice. The biggest variable is stance. If you can’t hit a target unless you have your perfect isosceles stance, what good will you be in an emergency. Shouldn’t you practice lots of different postions and stances and not get situated to just one?

Posted by: nurse ratched at January 04, 2026 07:55 PM (IhIKR)

94 SPONGE!!!

Posted by: RedMindBlueState at January 04, 2026 07:55 PM (Wnv9h)

95 Thanks, Nurse, Scoob, Weasel, and PI. We are getting along day by day as we get closer to the memorial service on Friday. My focus has been on the kids' well-being, but I do take every opportunity to talk about what has happened that I can get.

Posted by: Schnorflepuppy (OT but harmless) at January 04, 2026 07:55 PM (v23vE)

96 Word to yo mutha.

Posted by: Sponge - F*ck Cancer at January 04, 2026 07:56 PM (Zz0t1)

97 91 I'm keeping it so far.

Posted by: Sponge - F*ck Cancer at January 04, 2026 07:53 PM

Excellent! You have a 100% attendance this year!

Do not be late or it will go on your permanent record.
RI Red knows what I am talking about.

Posted by: Scuba_Dude at January 04, 2026 07:56 PM (QdaMw)

98 I get sight alignment and trigger pull.

But why stance?
Posted by: nurse ratched at January 04, 2026 07:40 PM (IhIKR)

Nurse, I'm speculating here, but the first serious pistol shooters learned during WWII from the likes of Colonel William Fairbairn (SOE) or "Jelly" Bryce (FBI). See the period training films, which emphasized the shoooter's stance on the range. It wasn't until some time after the end of WWII did competitions (EX: Police Pistol Competition - PPC and IPSC) attempt to make their events more reflective of actual, real world situations rather than a controlled target shooting event. Whig probably forgot more about this than I'll ever know, though.

Posted by: Ed L at January 04, 2026 07:56 PM (BCwQW)

99 Continued prayers, S'puppy.

Posted by: RedMindBlueState at January 04, 2026 07:56 PM (Wnv9h)

100 Weasel, with your indulgence, I’m am going to depart from “Range Report!” and give a
“Bench Report!”

With it being really too fricking cold to shoot right now, I’ve retreated to my bench.
DILIT got Hi Viz sights for her Glock 44, so they got
installed. I got a rear sight tool years ago and it still works perfectly.
Of course, I couldn’t find the tiny little 3/16” hex head for the front sight. But I managed.
DILIT was d-lighted. But sad that it is too fricking cold to shoot now.

Posted by: RI Red at January 04, 2026 07:56 PM (30Gj0)

101 We can't comfortably walk and stand that long these days and left.

Posted by: JTB at January 04, 2026 07:47 PM

I have been taking care of people in wheelchairs since I was 18.

I am finally wise enough to have determined that they are a very useful tool, even for people that don't NEED them.

My mother and my FIL are both over 85. Both are still ambulatory. However, I have picked up a used wheelchair. Whenever we go out for family stuff in a large public space, they first beg off, and then I remind them that I can easily push them around in the wheelchair. They then agree to go, and get to spend more time with family.

I know it may sound like stupid advice to you, but if you had taken a wheelchair to the show on Friday, you might have been able to take turns in the chair and enjoy the event.

I appreciate any tool that makes life easier!

Posted by: Pillage Idiot at January 04, 2026 07:56 PM (HlyYF)

102 Shouldn’t you practice lots of different postions and stances and not get situated to just one?
Posted by: nurse ratched at January 04, 2026 07:55 PM (IhIKR)
----
Sure. Lots of people do that sort of thing.

Posted by: Weasel at January 04, 2026 07:56 PM (+OnsA)

103 Practicing offhand shooting, for example.

Posted by: Weasel at January 04, 2026 07:57 PM (+OnsA)

104 Nurse, you're right about stance being the most variable fundamental. But, it does build muscle memory so your go-to in a bad situation is a good stance.

I do think, once you've got some good fundamentals at the static range, you should get some "tactical" time. Go to a range/class where you can shoot prone, kneeling, sitting, with barriers, and turning your body. There, you should learn other stances for various situations. (Go look at some of the old cop and military pistol training videos Weasel has posted. There's soom interesting stuff there on being able to pivot and such.)

(The same thought process is why I advocate 'point shooting' - to get your fundamental anchored in a natural muscle memory that helps you aim and gives you a good start when you can't aim.)

Posted by: GWB at January 04, 2026 07:59 PM (AhONI)

105 My off hand is retarded.

Posted by: Sponge - F*ck Cancer at January 04, 2026 08:00 PM (Zz0t1)

106 My off hand is retarded.
Posted by: Sponge - F*ck Cancer at January 04, 2026 08:00 PM (Zz0t1)
----
Yours too?

Posted by: Weasel at January 04, 2026 08:00 PM (+OnsA)

107 99 Continued prayers, S'puppy.
Posted by: RedMindBlueState at January 04, 2026 07:56 PM (Wnv9h)

Thank you, RMBS.

Posted by: Schnorflepuppy (OT but harmless) at January 04, 2026 08:01 PM (v23vE)

108 And it does my weakened and sickly self good to see a fundamentals discussion!

Posted by: Weasel at January 04, 2026 08:01 PM (+OnsA)

109 My On hand isn't that great either

Posted by: Daggit at January 04, 2026 08:02 PM (dBS6O)

110 I barely trust my off hand to assist tying my shoes.

Posted by: Sponge - F*ck Cancer at January 04, 2026 08:04 PM (Zz0t1)

111 Why stance is important. A) Recoil control. Like a lot of martial arts, best technique can offset the inevitable ravages of time and disability. B) Stability as a lot of self defense shooting occurs at short range in a very short period of time. Weapon retention may be involved so a Boxer's stance--about a shoulder's width creates a balance where a push or shove is less likely to put you on the ground where the disadvantages rack up at short range. C) Repeatability which is very important in self defense scenarios--same trigger pull, same grip, same firearm that fits hand, same load, same stance which is repeated after moving=superior ability to repeat that upon demand.

Not to discount target shooting but self defense shooting means accurate enough (pie plate shooting pattern) at speed while on the shoot and move. A balanced stance then is important not only for the initial shot but also when you move as it sets you up to stay on balance moving to the right, left, back if needed.

Posted by: whig at January 04, 2026 08:04 PM (WDjG6)

112 I barely trust my off hand to assist tying my shoes.
Posted by: Sponge - F*ck Cancer at January 04, 2026 08:04 PM (Zz0t1)
---
Velcro.

Posted by: Weasel at January 04, 2026 08:05 PM (+OnsA)

113 Shouldn’t you practice lots of different postions and stances and not get situated to just one?
Posted by: nurse ratched at January 04, 2026 07:55 PM (IhIKR)
---
Of course!

But for each stance you'll want to break down and analyze WHY that stance works and the physics behind it so that you can fully grasp the proper workings of that stance.

Regardless of stance, your weapon should ideally simply be an extension of your will.

Posted by: "Perfessor" Squirrel at January 04, 2026 08:05 PM (ESVrU)

114 I had a kid convinced once in high school that Einstein invented velcro because he couldn't tie his own shows.

Posted by: Sponge - F*ck Cancer at January 04, 2026 08:07 PM (Zz0t1)

115 101 ... PI,
Thanks for the wheel chair suggestion. Not there yet but something to keep in mind.

Posted by: JTB at January 04, 2026 08:08 PM (yTvNw)

116 Lots of great "why stance" responses! There's hope!

Posted by: Weasel at January 04, 2026 08:10 PM (+OnsA)

117 The expensive case tumbling media also have additives to enhance and speed up the polishing process.

You can go to the car washing section of your local Mega-mart and find a bottle of liquid polish, I use Nu-Finish brand myself, and add a squirt to your cheap media.

I add it to the media and let it get circulated by the running tumbler for a while, then add the brass.

Posted by: Idaho Spudboy at January 04, 2026 08:11 PM (YYotJ)

118 Weasel, would you consider (for handguns) shooting with strong hand only or weak hand only a fundamental part of handgun marksmanship? I usually try to get in a few rounds with my strong hand only on handguns w/ carry potential (smaller semi-autos, snub nosed revolvers), but it's not that many. My ability shooting weak hand only is mostly trash except at point blank ranges (< 5 yards).

Posted by: Ed L at January 04, 2026 08:11 PM (BCwQW)

119 Time for me to bid you all good night.

If you can, try and do more than static shooting. And if that is all you can do because of range rules at least try to practice things like off hand shooting.
If you are lucky to be able to shoot and scoot, do so.

Thanks Weasel!! Feel better!!! Maybe a nice hot toddy might be what you need to battle that cold! Or maybe you need your own Co-Z Cave.

Night everyone!!

Posted by: Scuba_Dude at January 04, 2026 08:12 PM (QdaMw)

120 Stance is nowhere near as important as wearing your hat sideways, tilting your head and holding the gun sideways.

Posted by: Sponge - F*ck Cancer at January 04, 2026 08:12 PM (Zz0t1)

121 Regardless,

Son #1, Mark Andrew Edwards and Lazy Messenger and I had some good target practice, I got my manly men hugs and lots of encouragement. You guys are the best. Thank you for your guidance, patience, generosity and kindness.

Posted by: nurse ratched at January 04, 2026 08:13 PM (IhIKR)

122 110 I barely trust my off hand to assist tying my shoes.
Posted by: Sponge
======
Start at short distances and work up. My current problems are a weaker dominant hand than my off hand due to spinal compression (surgery in Feb now). So being able to shoot my off hand means I can control recoil better due to loss of grip strength right now.

It also helps to ensure your firearm is bilateral ready without having to swap parts, etc. so if one hand is damaged or even gone, you can get by with the other in a fight.

Once I started having neuropathic symptoms of losing control, feeling, etc. I immediately trimmed down--at home a very heavy 9mm (Smith 3rd Generation DAO-5946) for carry, a heavy steel framed compact Smith 3rd generation DAO-6946 (holds 12+1 or uses its big brother's 59 series mag to hold 17 for a reload. Trigger pull on both is identical and similar to our house's backup revolvers that my wife prefers to use.

The safety on these DAOs is a double action revolver like trigger pull and tactile ability to hold the truncated hammer down upon reholstering so you can tell if it is snagging inside the trigger guard. Bilateral mag drop and slide release.

Posted by: whig at January 04, 2026 08:13 PM (WDjG6)

123 Night Scoob!

Posted by: Sponge - F*ck Cancer at January 04, 2026 08:14 PM (Zz0t1)

124 Stance is nowhere near as important as wearing your hat sideways, tilting your head and holding the gun sideways.
Posted by: Sponge - F*ck Cancer at January 04, 2026 08:12 PM (Zz0t1)

You forgot mag dumping.

Posted by: Ed L at January 04, 2026 08:14 PM (BCwQW)

125 Night, Scoob.

Posted by: RedMindBlueState at January 04, 2026 08:15 PM (Wnv9h)

126 Weasel, would you consider (for handguns) shooting with strong hand only or weak hand only a fundamental part of handgun marksmanship? I usually try to get in a few rounds with my strong hand only on handguns w/ carry potential (smaller semi-autos, snub nosed revolvers), but it's not that many. My ability shooting weak hand only is mostly trash except at point blank ranges (
Posted by: Ed L at January 04, 2026 08:11 PM (BCwQW)
----
I practice weak-hand a little teensy bit. Pretty much when it occurs to me which admittedly isn't often. There seems to me to be a point where you're looking at exceedingly diminished returns given the remote likelihood that your strong hand might become incapacitated. Could it happen? Sure. I'm not at all certain my occasional practice is accomplishing anything.

Posted by: Weasel at January 04, 2026 08:16 PM (+OnsA)

127 Posted by: Scuba_Dude at January 04, 2026 08:12 PM (QdaMw)
---
Nite Scoob. Thanks.

Posted by: Weasel at January 04, 2026 08:18 PM (+OnsA)

128 Another trick for dry cleaning cases in a tumbler.

Take a used anti-static dryer sheet from the laundry, tear it into strips, and add it to the brass and media. The weave of the sheet will pick up all sorts of dust and dirt that is generated by the tumbling process, thus lengthening the life of the media.

Posted by: Idaho Spudboy at January 04, 2026 08:19 PM (YYotJ)

129 Posted by: Sponge - F*ck Cancer at January 04, 2026 08:12 PM (Zz0t1)
---
Extra points for gangsta-style!

Posted by: Weasel at January 04, 2026 08:19 PM (+OnsA)

130 Posted by: Weasel at January 04, 2026 08:16 PM (+OnsA)

Thanks, Weasel!

Posted by: Ed L at January 04, 2026 08:19 PM (BCwQW)

131 Weasel, I emailed you for the TXMOME rifle syllabus. Hubby wants to do that this year. Thank you!

Posted by: BarelyScaryMary at January 04, 2026 08:20 PM (Cw/ar)

132 I do practice standing with my “off” foot in front occasionally. Or having my torso squared up
To the target. It doesn’t seem to matter as much as getting the pistol in sight range.

Do any of y’all practice just using the front sight? Like if you’re starting at low ready and raising the pistol and firing asap.

Posted by: nurse ratched at January 04, 2026 08:20 PM (IhIKR)

133 IMHO,
I've shot and carried single actions in the past (Argentine Browning HP clone), DA/SA in a Walther PPK, Sig P6 and later a Beretta PX4 Storm Compact, and Springfield Armory plus Glock safe action (partially precocked striker with a grip safety on teh Springfield and a Glock trigger safety on it which fully cock the striker upon activation at a certain point on trigger compression. Learned on double action revolvers firing them double action--Smiths, Rugers, and Colts.

But, these are all tools which were reliable enough to carry but have different manual of arms so that to keep shooting all of them complicates use in self defense in reaching for a safety it doesn't have, failure to fully engage the grip safety and so on.

At the end of the day, simplicity have a virtue all of its own; even more so when you have complicating factors like age/disability related limitations and limited practice time.

So shoot guns for fun but spend your self defense training time on the firearm system you picked. There is a reason that cops often carry an understudy of the same firearm as a backup like a Glock service length than a compact baby glock in a backup holster.

YMMV.

Posted by: whig at January 04, 2026 08:21 PM (WDjG6)

134 131 Weasel, I emailed you for the TXMOME rifle syllabus. Hubby wants to do that this year. Thank you!
Posted by: BarelyScaryMary at January 04, 2026 08:20 PM (Cw/ar)
-----
OK! I'll send it in a few minutes. If you have any questions, please let me know.

Posted by: Weasel at January 04, 2026 08:21 PM (+OnsA)

135 Thanks Weasel for posting those "headspace" videos -- it's one of the most important, but misunderstood gunsmithing topics.

Posted by: Pooklord at January 04, 2026 08:22 PM (asU3w)

136 I like the John Wick method.

Posted by: Ben Had at January 04, 2026 08:22 PM (sDNVV)

137 Posted by: Pooklord at January 04, 2026 08:22 PM (asU3w)
---
You're welcome!

Posted by: Weasel at January 04, 2026 08:23 PM (+OnsA)

138 I try in every hand gun session to shoot two hand, strong hand and weak hand. Just because.
Surprisingly, my weak hand is pretty good, probably because it feels so different in all aspects, that I am much more careful in my trigger pull.

Posted by: RI Red at January 04, 2026 08:24 PM (LMRVO)

139 Always remember, you can shoot around corners by flinging the gun when pulling the trigger.

Posted by: Sponge - F*ck Cancer at January 04, 2026 08:25 PM (Zz0t1)

140 https://www.youtube.com/live/IFujlAzComE

Iran Updates Day 8. Live stream.

Posted by: You Really Don't Want to Know at January 04, 2026 08:25 PM (kvcnI)

141 Good evening Horde;

I had a great range week. Some good solo practice time, a session with a shooting buddy including post-shoot hydration (which is very important and sometimes overlooked as an additional fundamental), and today taking out a friend of my son who was in town visiting his parents. Only the 2nd time he'd ever fired a pistol, but he handled the weapons safely, shot well, and had a great time.

Posted by: Kratwurst at January 04, 2026 08:25 PM (fcDpY)

142 With all the world's attention on Venezuela and Iran, someone feels neglected:
North Korea fires ballistic missiles towards Sea of Japan in first test of 2026
https://bit.ly/4poEzr5

Posted by: mindful webworker - slightly off-topic? at January 04, 2026 08:25 PM (dESj/)

143 As someone mentioned earlier, GWB I think, I practice "point" shooting more than weak hand shooting. It can produce surprisingly good results.

Posted by: Weasel at January 04, 2026 08:26 PM (+OnsA)

144 I like the John Wick method.
Posted by: Ben Had at January 04, 2026 08:22 PM

Fun Fact: Keanu Reeves spent a lot of time with a practical pistol trainer, shooting live rounds on a course, to get his fundamentals right.

Posted by: Idaho Spudboy at January 04, 2026 08:28 PM (YYotJ)

145 If any Horde members went, I would like to hear their opinions.
Posted by: JTB at January 04, 2026 07:47 PM (yTvNw)

JTB, I was there Friday and Saturday. If you went later in the day (especially Saturday afternoon), the line to get in was a lot shorter. Biggest problem w/ the venue was that there was only one set of bathrooms. The line to use the men's room was longer than the line to get in around noon on Saturday. Sales appeared brisk based on what I saw around Trader Jerry's tables. There were a lot of empty table space by closing on Saturday. There was an M1918A2 BAR on one guy's table for $37k (pretty cheap for a transferrable Class 3 BAR) on Friday, and it was gone by Saturday afternoon.

Keep checking their website because I heard from several exhibitors that the next show might not be at the Manassas Mall. The organizers are still looking for a more permanent home for the show.

Posted by: Ed L at January 04, 2026 08:29 PM (BCwQW)

146 whig; Browning HP>Saddam Hussien; Browning HP

Posted by: JROD at January 04, 2026 08:30 PM (IlL6s)

147 Surprisingly, my weak hand is pretty good, probably because it feels so different in all aspects, that I am much more careful in my trigger pull.
Posted by: RI Red
=======
Yep. Fundamentals as Weasel and you note always will improve your shooting.

If you want a humbling experience, practice your rifle shooting that way. I have done it but it is a very humbling experience because suddenly everything is backwards including having ejection of hot brass to the face if you are not careful. Bolt actions are a PITA to operate in reverse (advantage straight pulls here) and even the AR is set up for RH shooters unless you buy a LH model.

Posted by: whig at January 04, 2026 08:31 PM (WDjG6)

148 146 whig; Browning HP>Saddam Hussien; Browning HP
Posted by: JROD

Mine is one the licensed clones from FM in Argentina. Very nice firearm but utilitarian in finish and the original small safety. For awhile, FM made a shorter length variant called the FM detective with a 4.25 barrel and slide and you could interchange the slides between the service and Detective models.

The Detective model is very collectible if you can find one nowadays.

Posted by: whig at January 04, 2026 08:33 PM (WDjG6)

149 Idaho Spudboy. The movies are fun because the mag changes are correct. I seriously want some of those incendiary shotgun rounds.

Posted by: Ben Had at January 04, 2026 08:34 PM (sDNVV)

150 Fun Fact: Keanu Reeves spent a lot of time with a practical pistol trainer, shooting live rounds on a course, to get his fundamentals right.
Posted by: Idaho Spudboy

Taran Butler

Posted by: weft cut-loop at January 04, 2026 08:35 PM (mlg/3)

151 Always remember, you can shoot around corners by flinging the gun when pulling the trigger.
Posted by: Sponge - F*ck Cancer

Whoah. I know Gun-Fu~

Posted by: weft cut-loop at January 04, 2026 08:36 PM (mlg/3)

152 Weasel, I emailed you for the TXMOME rifle syllabus. Hubby wants to do that this year. Thank you!
Posted by: BarelyScaryMary at January 04, 2026 08:20 PM (Cw/ar)
-----
Email sent

Posted by: Weasel at January 04, 2026 08:36 PM (DJPFk)

153 October 16/17 2026. TXMOME

Posted by: Ben Had at January 04, 2026 08:38 PM (sDNVV)

154 Email sent

Posted by: Weasel at January 04, 2026 08:36 PM (DJPFk)

And received. Thank you.

Posted by: BarelyScaryMary at January 04, 2026 08:38 PM (Cw/ar)

155 Do any of y’all practice just using the front sight? Like if you’re starting at low ready and raising the pistol and firing asap.
Posted by: nurse ratched at January 04, 2026 08:20 PM (IhIKR)

I've tried this with very mixed results. Because I usually use an indoor range, I need to make sure that my sight alignment is reasonably good. I have to take my time because if I don't, my resulting accuracy always stinks.

Posted by: Ed L at January 04, 2026 08:38 PM (BCwQW)

156 October 16/17 2026. TXMOME
Posted by: Ben Had at January 04, 2026 08:38 PM (sDNVV)
----
I can't wait!

Posted by: Weasel at January 04, 2026 08:38 PM (DJPFk)

157 Is it practical to own one silencer that threads onto your various rifles?

Posted by: M. Gaga at January 04, 2026 08:41 PM (KiBMU)

158 October 16/17 2026. TXMOME
Posted by: Ben Had at January 04, 2026 08:38 PM

*saves dates in calendar*

Soon....

Posted by: RedMindBlueState at January 04, 2026 08:41 PM (Wnv9h)

159 Soon....
Posted by: RedMindBlueState at January 04, 2026 08:41 PM (Wnv9h)
----
Barely 10 months!

Posted by: Weasel at January 04, 2026 08:42 PM (DJPFk)

160 Weasel, me either.

I am honored and humbled by all of you that share this occasion.

Posted by: Ben Had at January 04, 2026 08:43 PM (sDNVV)

161 Just offhand, it sounds like some of you guys are using a different definition of "offhand." The standing rifle position, with no support, is offhand. Deliberately shooting using your 'other' hand is usually called "weak hand" shooting. Yes, it's important to practice. Not the same thing though.

"Stance" does not have to mean just the defined precision shooting positions. When Cooper first demonstrated his eponymous/i] stance among one-hand pistoleros, people laughed out loud.

Having your feet planted square under you, knowing how your shoulders are lined up, and having a good feel for your weight distribution both left/right and forward and back of your center of gravity, have a huge effect on your hold and sight picture, and on the start point of your muscle memory for point shooting. No, you won't want to adopt exactly the same position for every shot you take, but being aware of where you stand, literally, is stance practice. If you're not thinking about it and your shooting is pretty good, it's because you've already found a workable natural stance without knowing it yet.

Posted by: Way, Way Downriver at January 04, 2026 08:44 PM (zdLoL)

162 IMHO, I'm personally not a fan of most point shooting. If you take a look at Fairburn's book and he taught the technique to Col Rex Applegate in WWII for OSS recruits, you raise the firearm fully up to eye level but you basically index the shape of the firearm toward the target at very short range.

There is a central retention position where in the drawstroke, if you practice it this way, you essentially keep the firearm center of mass to your chest and use your body itself to index at bad breath range. Accurate enough at 3 yards if the opponent is charging you head on but it does have the advantage of minimizing risk of your handgun being twisted out of your hands at full extension.

Both Mas Ayoob and Jim Cirrillo (NYPD Stakeout squad and later firearms instructor at FLETC--federal law enforcement training center in GA, argue that for point shooting in severe time crunch or very low light retention issue where you use the weapon's profile itself as an index. Both they, and Bill Jordan-noted Border Patrol, all feel that using sights is preferable.

Lasers are another way to index without sights and certainly a more accurate one at the distance it is sighted in at.

Posted by: whig at January 04, 2026 08:44 PM (WDjG6)

163 145 ... Ed L,

Thanks for the show report. Since we didn't need anything in particular, I was just curious about how it went generally.

Posted by: JTB at January 04, 2026 08:44 PM (yTvNw)

164 @148 whig- my old mans Browning HP was the first 9mm I shot when I was a kid. It was from the 70's I believe, Belgium parts but I think assembled by FN(?) Not sure the history. I do know about the shorter variant as my old man always talked about getting his hands on one.

I always associate the Browning HP with Saddam as I remember my old man seeing him wave what he thought was a browning HP on TV back in the day. Famous clip of him doing that, not sure if it was substantiated that it was a Browning HP. Think I'll go google it.....

Posted by: JROD at January 04, 2026 08:45 PM (IlL6s)

165 I am honored and humbled by all of you that share this occasion.
Posted by: Ben Had at January 04, 2026 08:43 PM (sDNVV)
----
I'm just thrilled to be included. Most people figure out that I'm a retarded and creepy old man much more quickly!

Posted by: Weasel at January 04, 2026 08:45 PM (DJPFk)

166 I'm gonna need new Staff shirts.

Posted by: Sponge - F*ck Cancer at January 04, 2026 08:47 PM (Zz0t1)

167 153 October 16/17 2026. TXMOME

Posted by: Ben Had at January 04, 2026 08:38 PM (sDNVV)

We want to attend the whole event this year, God willing!

Posted by: BarelyScaryMary at January 04, 2026 08:47 PM (Cw/ar)

168 By "point shooting" I'm referring to taking a quick initial shot without using sights.

Posted by: Weasel at January 04, 2026 08:48 PM (DJPFk)

169 Weasel, try selling that somewhere else. You are the reason that this has grown into the celebration it is.

Posted by: Ben Had at January 04, 2026 08:48 PM (sDNVV)

170 Posted by: Ben Had at January 04, 2026 08:48 PM (sDNVV)
-----
You're too kind!

Posted by: Weasel at January 04, 2026 08:49 PM (DJPFk)

171 I'm just thrilled to be included. Most people figure out that I'm a retarded and creepy old man much more quickly!
Posted by: Weasel at January 04, 2026 08:45 PM (DJPFk)

I think that’s just the NyQuil talking . . .

Posted by: RI Red at January 04, 2026 08:49 PM (GVUrx)

172 Weasel, try selling that somewhere else. You are the reason that this has grown into the celebration it is.
Posted by: Ben Had at January 04, 2026 08:48 PM (sDNVV)
=====

Keeping the horde well-armed, trained, and protected in these times is a yuuuuge mitzvah.

Posted by: San Franpsycho at January 04, 2026 08:50 PM (RIvkX)

173 Barely ScaryMary, I am so looking forward to being able to get a chance to visit with you.

Posted by: Ben Had at January 04, 2026 08:50 PM (sDNVV)

174 I always associate the Browning HP with Saddam as I remember my old man seeing him wave what he thought was a browning HP on TV back in the day. Famous clip of him doing that, not sure if it was substantiated that it was a Browning HP. Think I'll go google it.....
Posted by: JROD
======
Very possible. I am dense enough I did not get the link at first. But BHPs are reliable in 9mm, heavy, dependable, but some hate the trigger pull and want to remove the mag safety. My Springfield XD 45 was one of the first generation and has the semi rare thumb safety on it and it so happens that the BHP clone from Argentina has the same small safety on it that the XD had in the same memory location. Not a fan of slide safeties dating back from when my AF unit switched from our Trusty but worn Model 15 Smith Revolvers to the too big for me Beretta 92. I loathed that firearm and loathed carrying it compared with the model 15.

The Portuguese assembly still produced excellent BHP models and was done for cost reasons as Browning was under pricing pressure from competitors in Semi Autos at that time.

Posted by: whig at January 04, 2026 08:50 PM (WDjG6)

175 Hi y'all

Sorry to be so late but I read all your comments. Next Sunday will be first range date in quite a while. Kind of afraid to see what the long layoff has done to my ability to hit the target.
Wonder how 9th Circuit overturning Californias law against open carry will affect other states?
Saving the date 10/16/17/2026.
Soon....

Posted by: sharon(willow's apprentice) at January 04, 2026 08:51 PM (t/2Uw)

176 I think that’s just the NyQuil talking . . .
Posted by: RI Red at January 04, 2026 08:49 PM

"Capital 'N', small 'y', BIG FUCKIN' 'Q'!!!!"

- Stuff Dennis Leary said

Posted by: RedMindBlueState at January 04, 2026 08:51 PM (Wnv9h)

177 I need to focus on my creepy old man fundamentals.

Posted by: Weasel at January 04, 2026 08:51 PM (DJPFk)

178 I need to focus on my creepy old man fundamentals.
Posted by: Weasel at January 04, 2026 08:51 PM

Step 1: Obtain van

Posted by: RedMindBlueState at January 04, 2026 08:53 PM (Wnv9h)

179 Is it practical to own one silencer that threads onto your various rifles?
Posted by: M. Gaga at January 04, 2026 08:41 PM

Yes. There are all sorts of adapters that go on the muzzle and then the silencer goes onto the adapter.

Posted by: Idaho Spudboy at January 04, 2026 08:54 PM (YYotJ)

180 168 By "point shooting" I'm referring to taking a quick initial shot without using sights.
Posted by: Weasel

A lot of what I see called point shooting is from the hip or some such without even raising it to the eye level. Bill Jordan, who competed professional as well as his Border Patrol job, could shoot aspirins off a car bumper by practice from the hip (he mentions this in his book, No Second Place Winner, but he treats it as a party trick).

For serious social work, a good workable index by a flash sight picture (Col. Cooper) or the cruder back of weapon profile raised to the eyes were far preferable. Ditto for Applegate and Fairburn.

Ayoob does allow along with Chuck Taylor and some others, that an elbows retracted center of chest retention position can be used to point shoot crudely if necessary to literally shoot someone off your gun. Care must be taken though with semi autos to have enough distance to prevent a jam.

As usual, your mileage may vary.

Posted by: whig at January 04, 2026 08:56 PM (WDjG6)

181 178 I need to focus on my creepy old man fundamentals.
Posted by: Weasel at January 04, 2026 08:51 PM

Step 1: Obtain van
Posted by: RedMindBlueState

Discontinue personal grooming.

Posted by: nurse ratched at January 04, 2026 08:56 PM (IhIKR)

182 Barely ScaryMary, I am so looking forward to being able to get a chance to visit with you.

Posted by: Ben Had at January 04, 2026 08:50 PM (sDNVV)

Me too, Ben Had. Last October was a whirlwind for us. We were on the road with family for 10 days prior to MoME. MOME was great, but we didn't have a chance to relax into it. May 2026 be more relaxing

Posted by: BarelyScaryMary at January 04, 2026 08:57 PM (Cw/ar)

183 Yes. There are all sorts of adapters that go on the muzzle and then the silencer goes onto the adapter.
Posted by: Idaho Spudboy at January 04, 2026 08:54 PM

Of course, the silencer needs to be compatible with the rifle caliber. Sending a 45-70 bullet through a 5.56mm silencer will spoiler your whole day.

Posted by: Idaho Spudboy at January 04, 2026 08:57 PM (YYotJ)

184 Step 1: Obtain van
Posted by: RedMindBlueState

Discontinue personal grooming.
Posted by: nurse ratched at January 04, 2026 08:56 PM (IhIKR)

===
Suspenders and belt

Posted by: San Franpsycho at January 04, 2026 08:57 PM (RIvkX)

185 Taran Butler"

Added to Canik now. Very nice handguns, usually under $1k...
One shop had the Wick/Ballerina movie gun... $4k? Yikes.

Posted by: man at January 04, 2026 08:59 PM (XuXeR)

186 Bloviation alert. Your body position makes a difference in everything you do. I spend every day teaching people how to improve performance by how to use your body to an advantage not making it a wall to block you.

Posted by: Ben Had at January 04, 2026 09:00 PM (sDNVV)

187 here's your dommy mommy: Ensamheten
x.com/germanicgems/status/2007841385811153284

Posted by: gKWVE at January 04, 2026 09:00 PM (gKWVE)

188 181 178 I need to focus on my creepy old man fundamentals.
Posted by: Weasel at January 04, 2026 08:51 PM

Step 1: Obtain van
Posted by: RedMindBlueState

Discontinue personal grooming.

Candy + a clown mask.
*shudders*
Posted by: nurse ratched at January 04, 2026 08:56 PM (IhIKR)

Posted by: BarelyScaryMary at January 04, 2026 09:01 PM (Cw/ar)

189 184 Step 1: Obtain van
Posted by: RedMindBlueState

Discontinue personal grooming.
Posted by: nurse ratched at January 04, 2026 08:56 PM (IhIKR)

===
Suspenders and belt
Posted by: San Franpsycho

Mumble to yourself and forget to zip your fly.

Posted by: nurse ratched at January 04, 2026 09:01 PM (IhIKR)

190 Turkish clone maker Girsan makes a shortened P-35 "PI" model.

Posted by: Idaho Spudboy at January 04, 2026 09:02 PM (YYotJ)

191 Is it practical to own one silencer that threads onto your various rifles?
Posted by: M. Gaga at January 04, 2026 08:41 PM (KiBMU)

Yes, IF:
- They share the same muzzle device/attachment method.
- They have approximately the same barrel length. SBRs will stress suppressors more than longer barrels.
- A can for 7.62mm will work for 5.56mm as long as you're willing to accept lower performance (i.e. less noise reduction).
- You minimize the use of things like FRT's or auto sears (if you have a Class 3). Higher rates of fire will dump more heat (and material heat stress) into the suppressor.
- For AR's, do you have/need an adjustable gas block? By design, suppressors will direct more gas into the rifle vice the muzzle. Can your AR's gas tube (for DI designs) or gas block (for piston designs) handle the higher pressures adding a suppressor will produce?
- If you suppress a DI gun, do you need to add additional parts (EX: gas tight charging handle) to prevent leaking combustion gases from getting shot into your face? Inhaling this gas will make you sick. Even reduced back pressure from flow through cans will still push some gas back into the chamber and upper receiver.

Posted by: Ed L at January 04, 2026 09:02 PM (BCwQW)

192 179 Is it practical to own one silencer that threads onto your various rifles?
Posted by: M. Gaga
=======
Rimfire silencers need to be removable and serviceable to clean out the lead and nasty gunk from time to time.

Rifle silencers have to be tough but are basically self cleaning as they operate at far higher temperatures and usually peak pressure than handgun rounds. You lose a little efficiency in shooting a 5.56x45 AR in a silencer designed for a 308 but not much.

A rimfire silencer put on a centerfire rifle will rapidly self disassemble itself. Silencer mounts and silencer threading designed to prevent that from happening btw.

And you cannot silence a revolver despite what Hollywood shows (The Sting is one example). The needed gap between the cylinder and the barrel precludes putting something on the end of it working. I am not considering someone taking a now collectible Nagant and putting a silencer on it. Nagants seal the chamber with its unique brass so a silencer could be used on one if you had a smith alter a Nagant to work.

Posted by: whig at January 04, 2026 09:03 PM (WDjG6)

193 back of weapon profile raised to the eyes were far preferable"

Works for me, as I seem to be able to focus on close/moving very quickly... but as always, what works best for one...

Posted by: man at January 04, 2026 09:04 PM (XuXeR)

194 190 Turkish clone maker Girsan makes a shortened P-35 "PI" model.
Posted by: Idaho Spudboy
=====
Can't say anything about Girsan HPs as I simply have not dealt with them. Nice to have HP options though.

I have bought few new guns since about the last 6-7 years when I stopped accumulating them.

Posted by: whig at January 04, 2026 09:05 PM (WDjG6)

195 Kentucky Ballistics has an interesting video, Weasel, on black powder in modern weapons. He discusses the issues with black powder, then demonstrates it by firing rounds loaded with black powder. I won't link it because he mentions specific grains of powder that are the maximum in each case. But if you watch it and determine it's safe, it would be really instructional, I think.

Posted by: GWB at January 04, 2026 09:05 PM (D+DDM)

196 Posted by: GWB at January 04, 2026 09:05 PM (D+DDM)
---
Thanks. I'll check it out.

Posted by: Weasel at January 04, 2026 09:06 PM (vt7xw)

197 Rimfire silencers"

Lead to much cleaning. There's a can of brake clean right over there...

Posted by: man at January 04, 2026 09:07 PM (XuXeR)

198 193 back of weapon profile raised to the eyes were far preferable"

Works for me, as I seem to be able to focus on close/moving very quickly... but as always, what works best for one...
Posted by: man
========
It can work for a lot of people, probably not for a precision 25 yrd shot but a 3 yard one, most likely without complications in an emergency.

Helps a lot though to have a very familiar firearm if you do it and sticking to that model. You can bugger up if switching between firearm models is the norm. Simply you can glitch and apply the wrong indexing memory to the firearm in your hand doing that.

Not a problem with firearms that present the same 'look' like a Glock or a Springfield XD. Big difference though between a Beretta PX4 Storm or 92 versus a revolver though.

Posted by: whig at January 04, 2026 09:09 PM (WDjG6)

199 After I was gifted my revolver I never picked up the 9mm again. The revolver just felt like a natural extension of my hand.

Posted by: Ben Had at January 04, 2026 09:12 PM (sDNVV)

200 Former LEO, at our pistol qualification we shot strong hand only and weak hand only. Accuracy standards were the same, were given a bit more time to transfer the pistol. Even though the chance of shooting one hand is slim, it is still worth practicing. Some idpa stages I’ve shot I switched to weak hand to make an easier shot around a barrier. It’s a useful skill.

Posted by: KDKong at January 04, 2026 09:14 PM (Bc40B)

201 Wish everyone a good night as I have doc appointments in the morning.

Thanks Weasel for hosting and his wise words and the rest of the group for comments and suggestions this evening.

Feel free to disagree with any and all of my opinions stated above and you can check out the opinions of those folks I mentioned often via YT videos posted on gun topics.

Have no red dot experience in handguns so will remain silent about those. MAE or Blaster would be better on those because they have used them quite a lot. MAE even in competition if I recall correctly.

Posted by: whig at January 04, 2026 09:14 PM (WDjG6)

202 probably not for a precision 25 yrd shot but a 3 yard one"

Yes, shorter ranges... and I own exactly one "non" 1911, so consistency is good. I've discovered that I have to take time to aquire a target with the new Echelon. It's a learning process...

Posted by: man at January 04, 2026 09:15 PM (XuXeR)

203 I have a Henry rifle gifted from my Dad. I've never shot it 😳
Still working through some vision loss issues. I need to just try.

Posted by: BarelyScaryMary at January 04, 2026 09:15 PM (Cw/ar)

204 On January 1st, the NFA transfer tax for silencers and some other items dropped from $200 to $0.

ATF normally received 2,500 e-filed tax requests per day. At this rate, it was taking roughly a week for a request to be processed and approved.

Since 1 Jan, they've received over 200,000 requests.

The ATF website staggered, but it didn't crash. It is unknown how long ATF will take to work through the the new backlog.

Posted by: Idaho Spudboy at January 04, 2026 09:16 PM (YYotJ)

205 Barely ScaryMary, be sure to bring it with you in October.

Posted by: Ben Had at January 04, 2026 09:17 PM (sDNVV)

206 Posted by: GWB
=========
Have to have a quick say on that. Black powder is pretty corrosive and nasty and modern firearms are not always easy to disassemble and clean like those designed for black powder.

If you do want to fire reduced loads in a modern rifle, there are better smokeless powders to do so with the cleaning regimen required for black powder. Look up C.E. Harris (former Ruger firearm designer) and The Load for information on those.

I don't have blackpowder in my house due to electric heating and static. What smokepoles I do have including first gen. bolt actions, I keep some of the blackpowder alternatives around. Much less problematic dealing with those.

Posted by: whig at January 04, 2026 09:19 PM (WDjG6)

207 Ok all y'all. 9:20 thank you time.

Thank you! Good times tonight!

Hope to see you right here next Sunday. Nite!

Posted by: Weasel at January 04, 2026 09:20 PM (DJPFk)

208 Barely ScaryMary, be sure to bring it with you in October.

Posted by: Ben Had

I will. Need to practice before then, dang it.

Posted by: BarelyScaryMary at January 04, 2026 09:20 PM (Cw/ar)

209 Time for me to punch out. Thanks for another great Gun Thread, Weasel.

See y'all in the Morning Report.

Posted by: RedMindBlueState at January 04, 2026 09:20 PM (Wnv9h)

210 Weasel. Please take care of yourself and get to feeling better soon.

Posted by: Ben Had at January 04, 2026 09:21 PM (sDNVV)

211 Posted by: Ben Had at January 04, 2026 09:21 PM (sDNVV)
----
Thank you. I will!

Posted by: Weasel at January 04, 2026 09:22 PM (DJPFk)

212 Barely ScaryMary, no better place to shoot than with the Horde.

Posted by: Ben Had at January 04, 2026 09:22 PM (sDNVV)

213 The ATF website staggered, but it didn't crash. It is unknown how long ATF will take to work through the the new backlog.

Posted by: Idaho Spudboy at January 04, 2026 09:16 PM (YYotJ)

I talked with my NFA dealer about this at this weekend's show. He told me that ATF was turning around Form 1s and Form 4s in 48-72 hours after submission in e-Forms. It's only one data point, but that's what I heard.

Posted by: Ed L at January 04, 2026 09:22 PM (BCwQW)

214 As an aside, I am slowly adding red dots. I suspect that will make it easier (more consistent) to move from gun to gun...

Night, y'all!

Posted by: man at January 04, 2026 09:23 PM (XuXeR)

215 Thanks for hosting, Weasel!

Posted by: Ed L at January 04, 2026 09:24 PM (BCwQW)

216 Posted by: Ed L at January 04, 2026 09:24 PM (BCwQW)
----
Thanks as always for being here and participating!

Posted by: Weasel at January 04, 2026 09:24 PM (DJPFk)

217 Barely ScaryMary, no better place to shoot than with the Horde.

Posted by: Ben Had at January 04, 2026 09:22 PM (sDNVV)

{Ben Had} I am looking forward to it!

Posted by: BarelyScaryMary at January 04, 2026 09:28 PM (Cw/ar)

218 The TXMoMe is like the Rose Bowl. It's the granddaddy of them all.

I do have a desire to visit the other ones around the country as well.

Posted by: Sponge - F*ck Cancer at January 04, 2026 09:35 PM (Zz0t1)

219 Weasel, would you consider (for handguns) shooting with strong hand only or weak hand only a fundamental part of handgun marksmanship?
Posted by: Ed L at January 04, 2026 08:11 PM (BCwQW)

I certainly do. When I am not working totally generic fundamentals and I'm shooting any of my carry weapons, I try to rotate through 2-hand, strong hand, and off-hand drills. Because I might need any of those in a bad situation, and I want at least enough muscle memory I can make it work.

Posted by: GWB at January 04, 2026 09:36 PM (Fx9pW)

220 Calling it a night, Weasel. Easy on that NyQuil!

Posted by: RI Red at January 04, 2026 09:39 PM (LMRVO)

221 M Gaga, a couple more things I forget to mention:

- The increased backpressure into the chamber and AR's upper receiver will increase the speed your bolt carrier impacts your buffer. You might have to increase the weight of the buffer you use to prevent your bolt carrier from beating itself to death.
- Individual suppressors' effects on AR's will vary because of their designs. Talk to someone knowledgeable about the model(s) you're interested in to see if you can find out what the effects will be on your platforms of choice.

Hope this helps.

Posted by: Ed L at January 04, 2026 09:40 PM (BCwQW)

222 ATF normally received 2,500 e-filed tax requests per day. At this rate, it was taking roughly a week for a request to be processed and approved.

Since 1 Jan, they've received over 200,000 requests.

The ATF website staggered, but it didn't crash. It is unknown how long ATF will take to work through the the new backlog.

Posted by: Idaho Spudboy

Fully automated it. Have it ping any criminal background check.
Unless the person barred it has to be approved anyway.

Posted by: Itinerant Alley Butcher at January 04, 2026 09:44 PM (/lPRQ)

223 195 ... "Kentucky Ballistics has an interesting video, Weasel, on black powder in modern weapons. He discusses the issues with black powder, then demonstrates it by firing rounds loaded with black powder."

I load black powder cartridge for 45 Colt and 45-70. I find them comfortable to shoot and accurate. I use a Ruger Blackhawk and a single shot rifle. You can also use BP substitutes like Pyrodex. The important thing to remember is to clean right after the shooting session. Swab the bore and fouled areas with water to neutralize the corrosive salts then clean and lube normally. I treat the gun like any BP firearm. Also, you need to soak the spent brass in water after decapping and scrub inside the case. A little extra effort but worth it for a fun variant of the hobby.

Posted by: JTB at January 04, 2026 09:45 PM (yTvNw)

224 Whig, when I mention "point shooting" I am using the idea that you naturally point very accurately with your index finger. So, getting your grip and wrist to use that (adjusting it so that your finger points where it would without a gun in your hand) makes the presentation of your weapon to a proper sight picture more natural and easier. It then ALSO means a good practice regimen with it gets you able to shoot in extremis without bring the sights into play.

I found out that I think one of grip problems was that it was NOT enabling the natural pointing function, so the pistol was coming into position and I had to shift the gun to aim it. I think it also makes a straight-back trigger pull harder to achieve.

Posted by: GWB at January 04, 2026 09:48 PM (Fx9pW)

225 Thanks, Weasel.
Thanks, Horde.
Night, all.

Posted by: GWB at January 04, 2026 09:48 PM (Fx9pW)

226 Calendar marked!!!

Woohoo!

Happy New Year!

Posted by: Iris at January 04, 2026 09:52 PM (bOJ2I)

227 A journalist posted the name and address of the commander of Delta and rang the Antifa dinner bell.

I kind of hope they show up and it's caught on video.

Posted by: Ian S. at January 04, 2026 09:55 PM (wItF4)

228 I use a Ruger Blackhawk and a single shot rifle.
Posted by: JTB at January 04, 2026 09:45 PM (yTvNw)

Sorry, when I said "modern weapons" I meant semi-automatics.

It's a really informative video demonstrating the differences from modern smokeless.

Posted by: GWB at January 04, 2026 10:14 PM (k9FFr)

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