Gun Thread: 2026 NoVaMoMe Announcement 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 2026 NoVaMoMe Announcement Edition? Seems like only last week was the Happy Easter Edition!

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

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FUNdamentals

Fundamentals 'O Safety, that is. The art of not killing yourself or those around you.

Are you being safe at the range (and elsewhere)? What's the closest disaster with regard to firearms handling you have seen?

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Dumb Idea?

Would you go into a gunfight with something like this?

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Knife Stuff

Recently the comments turned to knife sharpening and I mentioned the OUTDOORS55 YouTube channel. Watching and listening to this guy is how I finally learned to properly put an edge on cutting tools. In addition to being a useful skill to have, it also opens an entirely new rabbit hole of obsession and compulsiveness.

His channel has a lot of content and he gives very good and easy to understand advice. Weasel recommended.

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Daisy BB Guns

Interesting story.

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NoVaMoMe 2026

What - you thought there wasn't going to be a NoVaMoMe in 2026?

Note: One of the great joys of NoVAMoMe season, at least for me, is being able to cut and paste the entire block of text below and haranguing you to attend the event. Are you attending? Are you focusing on the fundamentals of attending?

Alright, guys and gals, the long awaited and highly anticipated details of the 2026 NoVAMoMe are here! That's right, I finally got my act together and updated the information page for 2026, and need to go over a few details. First, the date is June 20th, 2026 from 11am to 3pm. Nextly, my bestest blog buddy bluebell and I have decided 2026 will continue the longstanding tradition of NoVAMoMe simplification, and want to pass along the changes from prior years.

First, no registration and no advance charge for food. If you would like to attend, send an email to WeaselBell Productions, and let us know. You will be directed to a sekrit webpage with all of the details. We do ask once you have decided to attend to let us know so we can coordinate an expected count with venue management. Once there if you are hungry or thirsty simply order from the onsite menu and pay separately. Cash and credit cards accepted. Next, although fun, we have decided to again take a break from the raffles and mug sales this year. Depending on how it goes, that may be something we bring back in future years. While your generosity is always appreciated, with no prize table, please leave donations and contributions at home, but bring your appetite for a great afternoon spent with your imaginary online friends.

Next, a NoVAMoMe PSA from our pal bluebell

Hi folks - just a quick PSA. If you write for info about the MoMe, please give us a few words in the body of the email just so I know you are a Moron and not a spammer (moron). I do receive spam on this email account because it's sitting right here in my nic, so that's why I'm asking. I don't want to give our details to a spammer. Also, remember to check your spam folder if you don't receive a reply email.
Thanks.
bluebell

Seriously, just send an email then go to the website with the password provided. If you forget, a link to the email is on the main page, left sidebar. If you do not sign up, bluebell will be disappointed. Weasel will be disappointed, too, but it's bluebell you need to worry about.

That's it, people. Don't be a dork. Email WeaselBell Productions today!

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Our Pal Flat Position Arc Welding

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Highway Patrol!

This week's episode: Transmitter Danger!

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The Scarlet Claw!

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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 April 12, 2026 07:00 PM (Ia/+0)

2 WOOO HOOO!!!

Posted by: Scuba_Dude at April 12, 2026 07:00 PM (g5tO/)

3 Evenin'.

Posted by: Don in SoCo at April 12, 2026 07:01 PM (2TPZH)

4 Watching and listening to this guy is how I finally learned to properly put an edge on cutting tools. In addition to being a useful skill to have, it also opens an entirely new rabbit hole of obsession and compulsiveness.

No katana is safe!

Posted by: Duncanthrax at April 12, 2026 07:03 PM (0sNs1)

5 Good Sunday evening, gub 'ettes and 'rons, and a special screamingly-sharp greeting to our host Weasel! Appreciate the sharpening content in tonight's thread.

Posted by: Schnorflepuppy (OT but harmless) at April 12, 2026 07:05 PM (t2oSI)

6 No range report, but I did help my nephew mount a scope on his AR build.

He is converting his AR that is chambered in .227 to 5.56.

I just happened to have the torque wrenches he needed and also levels to make sure the scope was not all wonky.

Posted by: Scuba_Dude at April 12, 2026 07:06 PM (g5tO/)

7 Hello, Weasel!

Posted by: Ed L at April 12, 2026 07:06 PM (BCwQW)

8 Top 10- ish?

Posted by: Coelacanth at April 12, 2026 07:07 PM (vt7xw)

9 I just happened to have the torque wrenches he needed and also levels to make sure the scope was not all wonky.
Posted by: Scuba_Dude at April 12, 2026 07:06 PM

Did you counsel him on acceptable filling for his rear bag?

Posted by: Duncanthrax at April 12, 2026 07:07 PM (0sNs1)

10 Of course, there's a dark story behind Daisy BB guns. I bet there's a dark story behind marshmallow peeps, but I won't go off-topic

Posted by: Chairman LMAO at April 12, 2026 07:08 PM (U/j9n)

11 Weasel, is bluebell going to let you sharpen shivs?

Posted by: Duncanthrax at April 12, 2026 07:08 PM (0sNs1)

12 Greetings, Weasel and fellow Morons with gubs!

Posted by: Matthew Kant Cipher at April 12, 2026 07:09 PM (qVGoX)

13 Of course, there's a dark story behind Daisy BB guns. I bet there's a dark story behind marshmallow peeps, but I won't go off-topic
Posted by: Chairman LMAO at April 12, 2026 07:08 PM

Peeps won't put your eye out, nor are there any Red Ryder peeps.

Posted by: Duncanthrax at April 12, 2026 07:09 PM (0sNs1)

14 9 Did you counsel him on acceptable filling for his rear bag?

Posted by: Duncanthrax at April 12, 2026 07:07 PM

Not that type of rifle. We will be standing most of the time.
But I think he wants to take it out to 200/300 yards.
Then I will make sure he has a good bag filled with good stuff. ;-)

Posted by: Scuba_Dude at April 12, 2026 07:11 PM (g5tO/)

15 Re sharpening…
Just wait until you get some Japanese water stones…

The OCD can get intense

Posted by: Coelacanth at April 12, 2026 07:12 PM (vt7xw)

16 Posted by: Coelacanth at April 12, 2026 07:12 PM (vt7xw)
----
Wait?

Posted by: Weasel at April 12, 2026 07:14 PM (qdktZ)

17 greetings Weasel!

Posted by: Rancherbob at April 12, 2026 07:14 PM (c5Hv8)

18 Howdy!

Posted by: Puddleglum, drive by pew pew at April 12, 2026 07:15 PM (sAmhv)

19 Posted by: Rancherbob at April 12, 2026 07:14 PM (c5Hv

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Howdy RB!

Posted by: Weasel at April 12, 2026 07:15 PM (qdktZ)

20 Here. And I have an acktual Range Report!

Posted by: RI Red at April 12, 2026 07:15 PM (+g09R)

21 There is nothing finer than being at the NoVaMoMe.

Posted by: Ben Had at April 12, 2026 07:16 PM (yAteE)

22 Time for dinner.

Posted by: Rancherbob at April 12, 2026 07:16 PM (c5Hv8)

23 Did you counsel him on acceptable filling for his rear bag?

And watch sizes?

Posted by: Oddbob at April 12, 2026 07:18 PM (vTZFs)

24 Good evening all.
If attendees at the NoVa MoMe are interested in shooting with the DMV MGC we are willing to again host nd coordinate on Sunday. Might have to think up a new place for dinner as our great friend Tasha has left their employ. When we get closer, we will let people know the details.

Posted by: Sharon(willow's apprentice) at April 12, 2026 07:22 PM (t/2Uw)

25 * tap tap *

Is this thing on?

Posted by: Oddbob at April 12, 2026 07:22 PM (vTZFs)

26 Good evening Horde! Thanks Weasel.

Hooray for NoVaMoMe news!

Posted by: TRex - masters golf champion dino at April 12, 2026 07:22 PM (cCn4/)

27 When you get flattening stones for your Japanese water stones is when you have truly entered the rabbit hole.

Posted by: Duncanthrax at April 12, 2026 07:22 PM (0sNs1)

28 * tap tap *

Is this thing on?
Posted by: Oddbob at April 12, 2026 07:22 PM

Anyone hear sumpin' just now?

Posted by: Duncanthrax at April 12, 2026 07:23 PM (0sNs1)

29 I thought ALL ARs were modular?

Posted by: GWB at April 12, 2026 07:24 PM (flzjJ)

30 Weasel, I just emailed Bluebell. I won't be around much tonight because I need to finish my tax returns.

Posted by: Ed L at April 12, 2026 07:24 PM (BCwQW)

31 I thought ALL ARs were modular?
Posted by: GWB at April 12, 2026 07:24 PM

Pro Tip: If you buy the lower and the upper separately, you avoid paying the excise tax.

Posted by: Duncanthrax at April 12, 2026 07:25 PM (0sNs1)

32 Well, I booked a hotel for the NoVaMoMe. Unfortunately I was unable to stay at the hotel I used in the past, which is only 10 - 15 minutes from the meet up.

Instead I will be further south and maybe 15-30 minutes away.

Posted by: Scuba_Dude at April 12, 2026 07:25 PM (g5tO/)

33 Yoo-hoo, gun peeps! I join Weasel in cordially inviting you all to the NoVaMoMe. Please hit me up for the details!

Posted by: bluebell at April 12, 2026 07:25 PM (afFes)

34 Weasel, I just emailed Bluebell. I won't be around much tonight because I need to finish my tax returns.
Posted by: Ed L at April 12, 2026 07:24 PM

You know you can deduct rare and exotic H&K purchase expenses, right?

Posted by: Duncanthrax at April 12, 2026 07:26 PM (0sNs1)

35 Watching Sherlock Holmes and Dr Watson

Posted by: Skip at April 12, 2026 07:27 PM (Ia/+0)

36 bluebell and Weasel , thank you for all your hard work making the NoVaMoMe such a wonderful event.

Posted by: Ben Had at April 12, 2026 07:27 PM (yAteE)

37 I thought ALL ARs were modular?
Posted by: GWB at April 12, 2026 07:24 PM (flzjJ)

Not all. Your Colt AR won't work w/ a lot of H&K accessories because H&K uses a short stroke piston. The SR-15 from KAC has a bunch of proprietary parts in it even though it's a DI firearm like a basic AR.

Posted by: Ed L at April 12, 2026 07:27 PM (BCwQW)

38 Watching Sherlock Holmes and Dr Watson
Posted by: Skip at April 12, 2026 07:27 PM

Watson: How did you know this was a school for youngsters, Holmes?

Holmes: "It's an elementary, my dear Watson.

Posted by: Duncanthrax at April 12, 2026 07:28 PM (0sNs1)

39 You know you can deduct rare and exotic H&K purchase expenses, right?
Posted by: Duncanthrax at April 12, 2026 07:26 PM (0sNs1)

I wish.

Posted by: Ed L at April 12, 2026 07:29 PM (BCwQW)

40 27 When you get flattening stones for your Japanese water stones is when you have truly entered the rabbit hole.
Posted by: Duncanthrax

Pain in the butt to retrue surfaces without a mill. I simply buy new stones at that point. Use synthetic for touchy expensive stuff (Spyderco), cheaper India stones and metal files for mass removal of material, and have Ouachita stones for finer edges on things I care about. The synthetic diamond files are also useful.

Different set of tools for woodworking but I don't woodwork where I do metal work. Woodworking makes a mess and metal makes an oily mess. Neither are good around the other.

Painting and finishing make a whole nother set of mess and best kept away from the other two projects.

Posted by: whig at April 12, 2026 07:29 PM (E4rtv)

41 Hi weasel! Thank you for the thread!

Range report:

Had new sights put on my Ruger Mark IV and took him out for a spin. Focused on sight alignment and trigger pull. Had three flinches out of 80 rounds. Grrrrrr. Need more practice.

Posted by: nurse ratched at April 12, 2026 07:30 PM (A5RD0)

42 Gun abuse question for the Horde:

Doing "wall drills" with a new S&W Bodyguard 2.0 with a snap cap in the chamber.

I can rack the slide about half way and reset the trigger while leaving the snap cap in place.

Much easier to practice trigger pulls that way.

Is there any chance that will damage/wear the gun?

Posted by: Pillage Idiot at April 12, 2026 07:30 PM (HlyYF)

43 I thought ALL ARs were modular?
Posted by: GWB at April 12, 2026 07:24 PM

Some have proprietary attachments, such as the thingie that goes up.

Posted by: Duncanthrax at April 12, 2026 07:30 PM (0sNs1)

44 Don't be a dork.

Is this some new rule or something? Can I get grandfathered in for TX?

Posted by: Oddbob at April 12, 2026 07:31 PM (vTZFs)

45 No range report but I have spent great deal of time researching pocket pistols. I wanted one like Blaster has, a Kimber with a red dot that fit my hand and I got to try it out borrowing Sara Blaster's pocket holster. Perfect except it only comes with a 15 rd mag. None of the other Kimber models will take a dot and most also 15 rd. I've narrowed down to the S&W Bodyguard 2 which She Equips Herself carries but in her review she has some complaints about the sight.

Posted by: Sharon(willow's apprentice) at April 12, 2026 07:31 PM (t/2Uw)

46 So I have a question for the Horde. I was recently visiting with a friend about indoor range practice with handguns. Most typically, I start with my target at 15 yards, then 10, then maybe 7 or 5. One mag at each distance. I usually use a target with six small 4" circles (my thought is aim small, miss small). I'm typically a bit scattered at 15 yards, although my shots would land within a typical silhouette. But as I move it in, my groupings grow much tighter to the target.

My friend says he only practices with the target at 9-10 feet, as that is where 90% of handgun shooting is done. He feels it's better to develop perfect muscle memory and make large holes via tight groupings.

I realize indoor ranges with stationary targets are probably not as beneficial as outdoor/situational shooting with movement. Nonetheless, I'm curious to know what y'all think is the best way to structure handgun practice at the indoor range?

Posted by: Matthew Kant Cipher at April 12, 2026 07:32 PM (qVGoX)

47 I can rack the slide about half way and reset the trigger while leaving the snap cap in place.

Is there any chance that will damage/wear the gun?

Not a definitive answer but I can't see any reason why it should.

Posted by: Oddbob at April 12, 2026 07:32 PM (vTZFs)

48 37 I thought ALL ARs were modular?
Posted by: GWB
======
As far as the AR-15, yes. If not an AR-15, then certain parts might be interchangeable but not others. The whole AR universe though has AR-15 plus AR variants like the H&K.

Not really a hard and fast rule yet. Same as the AR-10 has several variants where some of the parts don't fit between variants.

Posted by: whig at April 12, 2026 07:33 PM (E4rtv)

49 Matthew Kant Cipher, you can try setting the gun down on the bench and then pick it up and find your target.

Posted by: Ben Had at April 12, 2026 07:34 PM (yAteE)

50 47 I can rack the slide about half way and reset the trigger while leaving the snap cap in place.

Is there any chance that will damage/wear the gun?

Not a definitive answer but I can't see any reason why it should.

Posted by: Oddbob
===
I agree with Oddbob here. As a general rule, it should not cause an issue. Some of the laser training snap caps though don't have a rim so racking does not affect them one way or another. You have to poke a rod down the bore to remove those.

Posted by: whig at April 12, 2026 07:34 PM (E4rtv)

51 Howdy, Gun Thread. I'm not as obsessive as many, but one of these days, when I can afford it... if my hands are still steady then... and at least in the meantime I've got lots of melee options for home invasions (an entire umbrella-vase worth, plus the short stuff strategically located)

I have been shooting with a friend who had his own toys, and enjoyed it mightily. Very zen.

Posted by: RandomDave at April 12, 2026 07:35 PM (aJQbY)

52 I use a Tormek knockoff to sharpen my chef’s knives and A2 steel plane blades. Chisels do best on my grade B granite stone with 3M micro finishing films.
Leonard Lee has a great book on sharpening.

Posted by: Accomack at April 12, 2026 07:35 PM (Udy3r)

53 My friend says he only practices with the target at 9-10 feet, as that is where 90% of handgun shooting is done.

Insert the word "defensive" and it's probably a true statement. Doesn't mean that there isn't value and enjoyment in shooting at longer ranges.

Posted by: Oddbob at April 12, 2026 07:35 PM (vTZFs)

54 I then stumbled across a new Walther. PDP F-series Pro. It can be bought with an Acro sight. It is a bit pricey but Ed assures me the sight is great so worth it. It comes with a 10 rd mag so MD compliant. But it has a 4 in barrel. The 3.5 version won't hold an optic.
Has anyone seen one of these? It is pretty new.
https://tinyurl.com/2s4baz2z

Posted by: Sharon(willow's apprentice) at April 12, 2026 07:37 PM (t/2Uw)

55 Hello Gun Folks.

Posted by: BeckoningChasm at April 12, 2026 07:39 PM (CHHv1)

56 Hmmm. I *might* be able to make the NoVaMoMe this year. However, my Permanent Record is in tatters so I might be put in detention the entire time.

Posted by: screaming in digital at April 12, 2026 07:39 PM (MSrAy)

57 Posted by: RandomDave at April 12, 2026 07:35 PM (aJQbY)
-----
Howdy and welcome!

Posted by: Weasel at April 12, 2026 07:39 PM (qdktZ)

58 Evening, Gub Threaders.

I'm about to pass out in a Paschal lamb coma. I'll be in and out.

Posted by: RedMindBlueState at April 12, 2026 07:39 PM (eiAiG)

59 Happy Easter, RMBS! And the same to your mom. Hope to see you both in June.

Posted by: bluebell at April 12, 2026 07:42 PM (afFes)

60 Hello Gun Folks.
Posted by: BeckoningChasm

* waves to BC and Robert *

Posted by: Oddbob at April 12, 2026 07:42 PM (vTZFs)

61 Thanks, Ben Had - I like that idea. I know they won't let us draw from a holster, but that would still help get on target more quickly. Do you typically fire twice, then set it back down, or just one shot at a time?

Posted by: Matthew Kant Cipher at April 12, 2026 07:43 PM (qVGoX)

62 Hmmm. I *might* be able to make the NoVaMoMe this year. However, my Permanent Record is in tatters so I might be put in detention the entire time.
Posted by: screaming in digital at April 12, 2026 07:39 PM (MSrAy)
--------

I shall see to it that your permanent record is expunged. Come join us!

Posted by: bluebell at April 12, 2026 07:43 PM (afFes)

63 Weasel, thanks for mentioning the Outdoors55 YT channel. I didn't know about it but it looks very useful. They have a video about sharpening an ax, something I need to work on.

Posted by: JTB at April 12, 2026 07:43 PM (yTvNw)

64 46 My friend says he only practices with the target at 9-10 feet, as that is where 90% of handgun shooting is done. He feels it's better to develop perfect muscle memory and make large holes via tight groupings.

Posted by: Matthew Kant Cipher
====
Figure your threat profile as a civilian and then skew your practice toward that. Claude Werner, the Tactical Professor has a website that is well recommended and free for some. Rangemaster newsletters by Tom Givins also also free.

Out in the country, you might very well have to make a 25 yard shot if the other critter is carrying a rifle etc. In the city, most of your shooting will be at bad breath range as you cannot enforce a 21 ft (aka 7 yd) bubble walking down the streetwalk, in an elevator, etc. Suburban bubble gets a bit bigger but even there, not quite 7 yds.

But, if you can precisely shoot your firearm from a draw at 7-10 yards, then you might want to make sure you speed up for defensive shooting.

A 3-5 inch rapid fire grouping at that range is fine for defensive shooting once you have mastered precise trigger control on slow fire.

Keeping your shots in a pie plate at 15-25 yards is excellent for defensive shooting.

Posted by: whig at April 12, 2026 07:44 PM (E4rtv)

65 The gun butt to the back of the head was the pre-Star-Trek neck pinch.

Posted by: GWB at April 12, 2026 07:44 PM (flzjJ)

66 Insert the word "defensive" and it's probably a true statement. Doesn't mean that there isn't value and enjoyment in shooting at longer ranges.
Posted by: Oddbob at April 12, 2026 07:35 PM (vTZFs)

-------

Thanks, Oddbob. I don't recall if he explicitly said "defensive", but that was certainly what I understood him to mean.

Posted by: Matthew Kant Cipher at April 12, 2026 07:44 PM (qVGoX)

67 Mid April, around 50 degrees. I dredged up the Ruger Predator 6.5 CM, and hit the long range today.
Mud season is over, the road up was clear and dry. Four guys were just finishing up, and gifted me a shopping bag full of once-fired .308. Very nice.
I worked my way out from 300 to 1100 with 120 grain Hornadys. All of the targets are now clearly marked and ranged.
The 120s were shooting much flatter than the ballistics program predicted. 50 rounds were all hitting 2-4 MOA high.
Switched over to Hornady 147 ELD M and just started at 1100. Solid hits after the third round. Called it a day after 20 rounds, with the last being a hit on a Fox target at 1107.
Life is good.

Posted by: RI Red at April 12, 2026 07:44 PM (WFfw3)

68 Happy Easter, RMBS! And the same to your mom. Hope to see you both in June.
Posted by: bluebell at April 12, 2026 07:42 PM

Thank you. God willing, we'll see you in June.

Posted by: RedMindBlueState at April 12, 2026 07:45 PM (eiAiG)

69 Matthew Kant Cipher, 2 or more at a time.

Posted by: Ben Had at April 12, 2026 07:46 PM (yAteE)

70 54 I then stumbled across a new Walther. PDP F-series Pro. It can be bought with an Acro sight. It is a bit pricey but Ed assures me the sight is great so worth it. It comes with a 10 rd mag so MD compliant. But it has a 4 in barrel. The 3.5 version won't hold an optic.
Has anyone seen one of these? It is pretty new.
https://tinyurl.com/2s4baz2z
Posted by: Sharon(willow's apprentice)
=====
Walther makes good stuff. A four inch barrel also makes the most out of the 9mm as most self defense ammo ballistics center around it as cops favor that barrel length. Less barrel rise too due to weight so you get back on target quicker.

Posted by: whig at April 12, 2026 07:46 PM (E4rtv)

71 Thank you, Whig!

Posted by: Matthew Kant Cipher at April 12, 2026 07:47 PM (qVGoX)

72 My friend says he only practices with the target at 9-10 feet, as that is where 90% of handgun shooting is done.

If he was a quarterback, would he only practice throwing the football 10 yards?

Posted by: Idaho Spudboy at April 12, 2026 07:47 PM (lLEcp)

73 However, my Permanent Record is in tatters so I might be put in detention the entire time.
Posted by: screaming in digital at April 12, 2026 07:39 PM (MSrAy)

SID, mine doesn’t even have tatters.

Posted by: RI Red at April 12, 2026 07:48 PM (WFfw3)

74 Got it - thanks, Ben Had!

Posted by: Matthew Kant Cipher at April 12, 2026 07:48 PM (qVGoX)

75 This is bizarre, on food thread commented was trying to get a part for grill, no sales it looked like as couldn't get 3 ways to pay it finalized. Just got a Email from Amazon they cleared the sale. for it

Posted by: Skip at April 12, 2026 07:48 PM (Ia/+0)

76 My friend says he only practices with the target at 9-10 feet, as that is where 90% of handgun shooting is done.

If he was a quarterback, would he only practice throwing the football 10 yards?
Posted by: Idaho Spudboy at April 12, 2026 07:47 PM (lLEcp)

Uncle Rico shakes his head...

Posted by: Pug Mahon, Trumpy can do magic at April 12, 2026 07:50 PM (0aYVJ)

77 I realize indoor ranges with stationary targets are probably not as beneficial as outdoor/situational shooting with movement. Nonetheless, I'm curious to know what y'all think is the best way to structure handgun practice at the indoor range?
Posted by: Matthew Kant Cipher at April 12, 2026 07:32 PM (qVGoX)

What your friend isn't accounting for is the massive adrenaline dump that happens at the start of any defensive situation. The first thing that happens is all of your fine motor skills (i.e. the ones you need to accurately hit the target) disappear in an instant. To compensate for that fact, Paul Harrell recommended that 1) you use a half sized target instead of a full sized one and 2) push the distance your target is at out to 10 yards vs. 5 yards. The rationale is that if you can get a good group at 10 yards on a half size target, you should be able to get a good group on a full size target at 5 yards.
For an example of that 10% outside bad breath range, see Mr. Dicken's example a few years back at the Greenwood Park Mall food court.

Posted by: Ed L at April 12, 2026 07:50 PM (BCwQW)

78 I have two categories for knife sharpening: kitchen and pocket knives (I use the same edge) and wood carving/wood working blades which use a thinner bevel. I've gotten pretty good at sharpening them appropriately after a LOT of practice. It's a satisfying and useful skill to develop.

I have the typical three whetstone setup but mostly use DMT diamond steel slabs. The man who made most of my wood carving knives (sadly semi-retired) has used them for decades. That is a high standard.

Posted by: JTB at April 12, 2026 07:53 PM (yTvNw)

79 It's t-shirt and shorts weather here so, time to switch my EDC from a Ruger Security 9 to my G26 for concealability. (I need to lose some weight around my middle.)

Posted by: Maj. Healey at April 12, 2026 07:54 PM (abIsI)

80 I shall see to it that your permanent record is expunged. Come join us!
Posted by: bluebell
---
Thank you! If I can get there, I'll bring a suitable bribe.

I'm already traveling twice in June, but I'm actually free the weekend of the 20th so it's possible.

If I can make it, I would like to arrange a group outing to Udvar Hazy Sunday morning if that wouldn't conflict with the range time. By "arrange," I mean "I'll be there at such-and-such time, if anybody else wants to show up"

Posted by: screaming in digital at April 12, 2026 07:54 PM (MSrAy)

81 If he was a quarterback, would he only practice throwing the football 10 yards?
Posted by: Idaho Spudboy at April 12, 2026 07:47 PM (lLEcp)

Uncle Rico shakes his head...
Posted by: Pug Mahon, Trumpy can do magic at April 12, 2026 07:50 PM (0aYVJ

-----------

Grandma called, she said you're supposed to stop ruining everyone's life 😂

Posted by: Matthew Kant Cipher at April 12, 2026 07:55 PM (qVGoX)

82 SID, mine doesn’t even have tatters.
Posted by: RI Red
---
we should use our Permanent Records as homemade targets!

Posted by: screaming in digital at April 12, 2026 07:56 PM (MSrAy)

83 I wonder if a range would allow you to start with a target at 15 yards, hit the recall button and then fire at it as it advanced.

Posted by: nurse ratched at April 12, 2026 07:56 PM (A5RD0)

84 Thank you, Ed L - great points

Posted by: Matthew Kant Cipher at April 12, 2026 07:57 PM (qVGoX)

85 Reporting in from the phone lines - er, email lines. Business is brisk and I'm so happy to be sending out the info to you delightful Morons. Keep those cards and letters coming!

Posted by: bluebell at April 12, 2026 07:58 PM (afFes)

86 Posted by: screaming in digital at April 12, 2026 07:54 PM (MSrAy)
-------
Udvar-Hazy is unbelievable. Have you been?

Posted by: Weasel at April 12, 2026 07:59 PM (qdktZ)

87 I've wondered the same thing, Nurse.... I suspect it is frowned upon but probably worth asking.

Posted by: Matthew Kant Cipher at April 12, 2026 07:59 PM (qVGoX)

88 Grandma called, she said you're supposed to stop ruining everyone's life 😂
Posted by: Matthew Kant Cipher at April 12, 2026 07:55 PM (qVGoX)

A friend summed it up perfectly: It's kind of embarrassing that I love that stupid movie so much.

Bottled lightning.

Posted by: Pug Mahon, Trumpy can do magic at April 12, 2026 07:59 PM (0aYVJ)

89 Oh great and powerful Weasel.

Why do you spend so much time stressing funding for mentals? I thought this was a gun thread. Wouldn’t our time be better spent working on techniques and consistency in gun handling?

Posted by: Emily Littela Bog at April 12, 2026 08:00 PM (WlUfk)

90 Posted by: nurse ratched at April 12, 2026 07:56 PM (A5RD0)
------
Try it and see if someone starts yelling at you.

Posted by: Weasel at April 12, 2026 08:00 PM (qdktZ)

91 Wouldn’t our time be better spent working on techniques and consistency in gun handling?
Posted by: Emily Littela Bog at April 12, 2026 08:00 PM (WlUfk)
-----
Nah!

Posted by: Weasel at April 12, 2026 08:02 PM (qdktZ)

92 What is an “Udvar Hazy”?
It sounds like a rum mixed drink. Cousin to a Dark and Stormy.

Posted by: RI Red at April 12, 2026 08:03 PM (OaHPZ)

93 Thanks Whig. This gun has a couple of things going for it. First the F frame stands for female so better chance the gun will fit my hand. Shorter trigger pull.The Acro sight is factory installed. It is 9mm so uses the same ammo as my Glocks.It is frustrating though to not be able to handle it. The April Gun show has been postponed til May. I am hoping to get one of these dealers to bring one and hold it for me til I can handle it.

Posted by: Sharon(willow's apprentice) at April 12, 2026 08:03 PM (t/2Uw)

94 Udvar-Hazy

I highly recommend a visit. It's got an impressive selection of cool stuff. I'll once again try to attend but work is a harsh mistress. I pretty much work every weekend. I get Sunday nights off

Posted by: Puddleglum, cheer up for the worst is yet to come at April 12, 2026 08:03 PM (sAmhv)

95 Udvar-Hazy is unbelievable. Have you been?
Posted by: Weasel at April 12, 2026 07:59 PM

We went last year. Great place!

Posted by: RedMindBlueState at April 12, 2026 08:04 PM (eiAiG)

96 If I can make it, I would like to arrange a group outing to Udvar Hazy Sunday morning if that wouldn't conflict with the range time. By "arrange," I mean "I'll be there at such-and-such time, if anybody else wants to show up"
Posted by: screaming in digital at April 12, 2026 07:54 PM (MSrAy)
---

That would be fun! I haven't been there in years.

Posted by: All Hail Eris, She-Wolf of the 'Ettes 'Ettes at April 12, 2026 08:04 PM (kpS4V)

97 A friend summed it up perfectly: It's kind of embarrassing that I love that stupid movie so much.

Bottled lightning.
Posted by: Pug Mahon, Trumpy can do magic at April 12, 2026 07:59 PM (0aYVJ

----------

No doubt. I've often said that movie perfectly captures the absurdities of rural/small-town life. I grew up on a farm and went to HS in such a town. My children were all raised in a much larger city, but I relish the fact that they all love that flick. Much quoted in our family.... "I caught you a delicious bass"

Posted by: Matthew Kant Cipher at April 12, 2026 08:05 PM (qVGoX)

98 94: attend the MoMe. Forgot to add it

Posted by: Puddleglum, cheer up for the worst is yet to come at April 12, 2026 08:05 PM (sAmhv)

99 Ok, I gurgled it. Tres cool.

Posted by: RI Red at April 12, 2026 08:05 PM (OaHPZ)

100 Puddleglum, can you put in a leave request? We're worth it, you know.

Posted by: bluebell at April 12, 2026 08:06 PM (afFes)

101 On a more relevant note. I haven’t added a caliber to my stable in awhile. I’m open to creating complexity and confusion with something new.

I’m looking for a new 400 yard plus varmint caliber to bag coyotes on the far side of the pasture. Normally I would stick with .223 because standardize everything but as I age I’m trying to be open to new experiences. Except more recoil.

I’m a lefty and would like a bolt action for this application. Low light situations with a gee whiz scope that floated past on the stream.

Any suggestions?

Posted by: Pete Bog at April 12, 2026 08:06 PM (WlUfk)

102 Udvar-Hazy is unbelievable. Have you been?
Posted by: Weasel
---
Yes! In 2023, after the only NoVaMoMe I have been to so far. Ed L recommended a visit there. GWB and I both showed up at the same time (unplanned) and I had a delightful time touring with him. Seeing the Discovery shuttle was a BFD for this former Space Camp nerd!

Posted by: screaming in digital at April 12, 2026 08:07 PM (MSrAy)

103 McMaster-Carr sells some really good sharpening stones as Combination Bench Stones by Norton. I had a Norton stone for years but it got shattered. I saw a machinist using a very similar stone to face a fixture and found it was almost the exact stone I had. Almost the same being his was made in Mexico and my old one was from the American quarry. I can't tell the difference.
I'm so abusive with knives that I wind up sharpening my EDC about twice a month.
I used a carbide draw sharpener at first then hone from there. I like 22° on my blades.
My facination started in Somalia where we had bayonets with little stones and LOTS of down time. We all had stones sent to us and the sharness of your bayonet became a thing.
I'll spend days on some sharpening projects.
No sword, dagger, knife or blade in my posession is dull. I sharpen utility knife blades too.

Posted by: Reforger at April 12, 2026 08:07 PM (emWLT)

104 They have the actual Enola Gay?

Holy carp!

Posted by: nurse ratched at April 12, 2026 08:08 PM (A5RD0)

105 What Ed said about those half size targets at 10 yds...
When you pick up a gun, and shoot one handed and hit that target enough times that you know the guys dead is a great confidence builder.🤠

Posted by: Sharon(willow's apprentice) at April 12, 2026 08:09 PM (t/2Uw)

106 They have the actual Enola Gay?

Holy carp!
Posted by: nurse ratched at April 12, 2026 08:08 PM (A5RD0)

True fact: my Grandpa helped build the Enola Gay.

Posted by: Pug Mahon, Trumpy can do magic at April 12, 2026 08:10 PM (0aYVJ)

107 Yes! In 2023, after the only NoVaMoMe I have been to so far. Ed L recommended a visit there. GWB and I both showed up at the same time (unplanned) and I had a delightful time touring with him. Seeing the Discovery shuttle was a BFD for this former Space Camp nerd!
Posted by: screaming in digital at April 12, 2026 08:07 PM

The only one?

You need to book NoVaMoMe 2026.

*channels inner Zod*

You will do this. You will do this now.

Posted by: RedMindBlueState at April 12, 2026 08:11 PM (eiAiG)

108 It's t-shirt and shorts weather here so, time to switch my EDC from a Ruger Security 9 to my G26 for concealability. (I need to lose some weight around my middle.)
Posted by: Maj. Healey at April 12, 2026 07:54 PM (abIsI)

I've found that most people never notice that I'm carrying under my T shirt, even though I'm printing big time. People see what they want to see. Or don't.

Posted by: That SOB Van Owen at April 12, 2026 08:12 PM (lPWbY)

109 They have the actual Enola Gay?

Holy carp!
Posted by: nurse ratched at April 12, 2026 08:08 PM

And the only surviving Horten HO-229.

Posted by: RedMindBlueState at April 12, 2026 08:12 PM (eiAiG)

110 True fact: my Grandpa helped build the Enola Gay.
Posted by: Pug Mahon, Trumpy can do magic at April 12, 2026 08:10 PM (0aYVJ)

--------

Here in Bellevue?

Posted by: Matthew Kant Cipher at April 12, 2026 08:12 PM (qVGoX)

111 They have the actual Enola Gay?
Holy carp!
Posted by: nurse ratched at April 12, 2026 08:08 PM (A5RD0)
----
They do. It is too big to fit into the museum downtown and so it was stored (disassembled) at their old renovation facility in Suitland, MD. I first saw it there in a hangar. Pretty cool.

Posted by: Weasel at April 12, 2026 08:13 PM (qdktZ)

112 Why do you spend so much time stressing funding for mentals?
Posted by: Emily Littela Bog

He knows his audience.

Posted by: Oddbob at April 12, 2026 08:13 PM (vTZFs)

113 Pete Bog,
.243 Winchester is a fine flat shooter.

Posted by: RI Red at April 12, 2026 08:13 PM (o19x0)

114 They have the actual Enola Gay?
..............................
And the first space shuttle, Enterprise.
Never made into space. A prototype.

Posted by: Puddleglum, cheer up for the worst is yet to come at April 12, 2026 08:14 PM (sAmhv)

115 Admission to Udvar-Hazy is free, but parking will set you back $15 or $20. You might want to consider carpooling because of this.

Posted by: Ed L at April 12, 2026 08:15 PM (BCwQW)

116 Bluebell

I can. We're undermanned at the moment. Not sure what June will look like.

Posted by: Puddleglum, cheer up for the worst is yet to come at April 12, 2026 08:17 PM (sAmhv)

117 True fact: my Grandpa helped build the Enola Gay.
Posted by: Pug Mahon, Trumpy can do magic at April 12, 2026 08:10 PM (0aYVJ)

--------

Here in Bellevue?
Posted by: Matthew Kant Cipher at April 12, 2026 08:12 PM (qVGoX)

Yes, but he started his career in Seattle, worked in the Red Barn for a while. To be honest, I do not know just how extensive his career was, because to him it was just his job. It was not until years later that I learned he worked for NASA during the Apollo missions. Frustrating.

The old-timers have stories to tell.

Posted by: Pug Mahon, Trumpy can do magic at April 12, 2026 08:18 PM (0aYVJ)

118 They have the actual Enola Gay?

Holy carp!
Posted by: nurse ratched at April 12, 2026 08:08 PM (A5RD0)

And they have the Boeing "Dash-80," the prototype 707 that the test pilot barrel rolled in its first public showing over Seattle.

Posted by: Ed L at April 12, 2026 08:18 PM (BCwQW)

119 Ah, okay, Puddleglum. Hoping for the best.

Posted by: bluebell at April 12, 2026 08:20 PM (afFes)

120 A trip to Uvar-Hazy is a worth while trip

Posted by: Skip at April 12, 2026 08:20 PM (Ia/+0)

121 Hmmm. I *might* be able to make the NoVaMoMe this year. However, my Permanent Record is in tatters so I might be put in detention the entire time.
Posted by: screaming in digital at April 12, 2026 07:39 PM (MSrAy)

I'll sit in detention with ya. We can play mumbledy-peg.

Posted by: GWB at April 12, 2026 08:20 PM (flzjJ)

122 Still need some BEGINNER trigger pull advice. (If anyone is so obliged.)

I have a significant "intention tremor". Pulling a trigger is a very intentional act for me - so of course my tremor gets worse in that situation.

I am currently doing lots of drills just pointing the gun at a blank spot on the wall and trying to watch the front sight remain steady during the trigger break.

Unfortunately, I cannot do this!

I have even simplified the act to just trying to take up the trigger on an uncocked gun, and the front sight still moves a little.

I have tried all of the grip variances I can think of - to little improvement. (I am right-handed.)

I have tried pull from center of index pad versus pull from crease in first joint. I have tried "very relaxed" arms to crushing left grip to crushing grip with elbows up and hands relaxed.

Practice makes "permanent" in my personal experience, rather than perfect. Any advice on things to try before I work hard on repeating a fixed operation.

(cont.)

Posted by: Pillage Idiot at April 12, 2026 08:21 PM (HlyYF)

123 (cont.)

Finally, my best result is pulling the trigger with BOTH index fingers. I currently execute my signature by steadying my right hand by pushing gently with my left index finger on my right thumb. I have tried applying this to my trigger pull, and it is my best (Idiot) solution so far.

I pull with the crease of my index finger on the trigger, and stick the tip of my left index finger inside the trigger guard on my right knuckle. That gives me a much steadier trigger “squeeze” with much less motion of the front sight. I have not yet tried it on the range with live ammo.

If that is the stupidest thing you have ever heard, please don’t spare my feelings by hedging your answers. This is an important thing to get right, so I definitely will take any advice from the experts.

Posted by: Pillage Idiot at April 12, 2026 08:21 PM (HlyYF)

124 Pete Bog,
.243 Winchester is a fine flat shooter.

Yes. I was gonna suggest the .25-06 but that might be a bit of overkill.

Posted by: Notorious BFD at April 12, 2026 08:22 PM (ceJ0R)

125 I wonder if a range would allow you to start with a target at 15 yards, hit the recall button and then fire at it as it advanced.
Posted by: nurse ratched
*********
Ours does!

Posted by: The Grateful - Acta Non Verba at April 12, 2026 08:24 PM (cCn4/)

126 Dang it, just heard the dinner bell.

I will be back to read comments later.

Thanks Weasel!
Thanks Horde?

Posted by: Pillage Idiot at April 12, 2026 08:24 PM (HlyYF)

127 Welp, I need to sign out early.

Thanks for a great Gun Thread Weasel.

Posted by: RedMindBlueState at April 12, 2026 08:25 PM (eiAiG)

128 And the only surviving Horten HO-229.
Posted by: RedMindBlueState at April 12, 2026 08:12 PM (eiAiG)

Well, pieces of it, anyway.

Good evening gubthreaders and all the ships at sea!

Posted by: blaster - Fortis Fortuna Adiuvat at April 12, 2026 08:25 PM (NlEaG)

129 If that is the stupidest thing you have ever heard, please don’t spare my feelings by hedging your answers. This is an important thing to get right, so I definitely will take any advice from the experts.
Posted by: Pillage Idiot at April 12, 2026 08:21 PM (HlyYF)

"If it's stupid, but works, it isn't stupid." - Murphy's Laws of Combat.

Posted by: Ed L at April 12, 2026 08:26 PM (BCwQW)

130 Udvar-Hazy is unbelievable. Have you been?
Posted by: Weasel at April 12, 2026 07:59 PM

We went last year. Great place!
Posted by: RedMindBlueState
*********
And now we need to get you to the USMC museum, which is incredible

Posted by: The Grateful - Acta Non Verba at April 12, 2026 08:26 PM (cCn4/)

131 Got to go to finish up my taxes before April 15. Thanks for hosting, Weasel!

Posted by: Ed L at April 12, 2026 08:26 PM (BCwQW)

132 You will do this. You will do this now.
Posted by: RedMindBlueState
---
Will do my best!

Posted by: screaming in digital at April 12, 2026 08:27 PM (MSrAy)

133 Concur on Udvar-Hazy. We took our godchildren - a 2 yo and 6 yo boy, the 6 yo is in I want to be an astronaut phase.

This was an excellent trip. If you want to get re-energized and roll back the black pill a little, go to that museum with kids.

Posted by: blaster - Fortis Fortuna Adiuvat at April 12, 2026 08:27 PM (NlEaG)

134 The old-timers have stories to tell.
Posted by: Pug Mahon, Trumpy can do magic at April 12, 2026 08:18 PM (0aYVJ

--------

Boy isn't that the truth. Never knew my Dad's first cousin was part of the Normandy landing, until he came into the house one evening after helping my brother haul a load of cattle to market. It just so happened to be the anniversary date of D-day. He'd had enough to drink that he described the whole situation in detail.... I got the sense we might have been some of the only people he'd ever told. I was still in high school then, but I remember years later when Saving Private Ryan came out the intro scenes were exactly as Gene had described them. Hair raising....

Posted by: Matthew Kant Cipher at April 12, 2026 08:28 PM (qVGoX)

135 My brother suggested I might like this web site. He was entirely
right. This post truly made my day. You can not imagine just how much time I had spent for this info!

Thanks!

Posted by: 555win at April 12, 2026 08:28 PM (SMW4C)

136 125 I wonder if a range would allow you to start with a target at 15 yards, hit the recall button and then fire at it as it advanced.
Posted by: nurse ratched
*********
Ours does!
Posted by: The Grateful - Acta Non Verba at April 12, 2026 08:24 PM (cCn4/)

Indeed it does! A couple weeks ago I think I mentioned that we did a drill like this. We set it out at 10 yards and brought it in. Draw EDC from IWB holster and see can you get 3 good shots in.

It is totally different experience than standing and shooting at paper. You've added motion, drawing from the holster, and a time factor to it. You would not believe how much adrenaline it adds.

Posted by: blaster - Fortis Fortuna Adiuvat at April 12, 2026 08:30 PM (NlEaG)

137 the USMC museum, which is incredible
Posted by: The Grateful - Acta Non Verba at April 12, 2026 08:26 PM (cCn4/)
-----
Agreed!

Posted by: Weasel at April 12, 2026 08:31 PM (qdktZ)

138 138 at 138

Posted by: Eromero at April 12, 2026 08:32 PM (LHPAg)

139 I have a significant "intention tremor". Pulling a trigger is a very intentional act for me - so of course my tremor gets worse in that situation.

This may or may not be of any help at all. I heard it from one of my first professional instructors and TBH I'm not sure if it made any real difference for me but I'll pass it on for your consideration.

He said that he could get new(er) shooters to improve their trigger control by changing the way they think about it by changing the verb used to describe the action. "Squeeze" is right out because squeezing is a whole hand action. "Pull" is discouraged because it suggests a gross motor action instead of a fine one. He recommended "press" or even better "click" as you would click a mouse button. You don't death-grip a mouse; you hold it enough to control it. Then when you're on target, you click the button by moving just that one finger. Try dry firing with that mental image and see if it helps.

Posted by: Oddbob at April 12, 2026 08:33 PM (vTZFs)

140 I did not shoot this week. I did not buy guns, not ammo.

I DID do my certification to turn a Form 3 into a Form 4.

I am seeing a suppressor in my future next week. I hope.

I mentioned that this shop was run by the rude guy from the types of gun store clerks video? Yeah. That whole shop is like the soup nazi. Except for with guns, not soup. So gun Nazis, I guess.

They apparently sublet space from an anime shop. Which is weird.

Posted by: blaster - Fortis Fortuna Adiuvat at April 12, 2026 08:34 PM (NlEaG)

141 It is totally different experience than standing and shooting at paper. You've added motion, drawing from the holster, and a time factor to it. You would not believe how much adrenaline it adds.

Posted by: blaster - Fortis Fortuna Adiuvat at April 12, 2026 08:30 PM (NlEaG)

Even better - go sign up to do IDPA drills. You will not believe how much more realistic it is. And they are very friendly to newcomers.

Posted by: RI Red at April 12, 2026 08:34 PM (TOBhH)

142 Pillage Idiot- one thing that helped me steady my aim was doing the nickel drill with snap caps. Balance a nickel on the front sight, and when you pull the trigger, make sure the nickel doesn't fall off. I think maybe it changes your mental focus away from your trigger finger. It's annoying at first, but eventually it helped me a good deal.

Posted by: Matthew Kant Cipher at April 12, 2026 08:35 PM (qVGoX)

143 Altered or synthetic comment.

Posted by: Bertram Cabot, Jr. at April 12, 2026 08:36 PM (Cqx++)

144 Even better - go sign up to do IDPA drills. You will not believe how much more realistic it is. And they are very friendly to newcomers.
Posted by: RI Red at April 12, 2026 08:34 PM (TOBhH)

You know who wants to do that? sra blaster does.

We were doing steel shoot (outlaw - no organizational rules) at our range for a while. But she wants something that has real rules.

Posted by: blaster - Fortis Fortuna Adiuvat at April 12, 2026 08:37 PM (NlEaG)

145 In addition to learning how to sharpen blades it is equally important to learn how to use a strop and sharpening steel. If used on a regular basis, they will almost eliminate the need to resharpen a blade on a stone. The strop for my wood carving knives is just a piece of leather on a board rubbed with a stropping compound. I keep a steel in the kitchen for those knives and use it each time. (I also only use hardwood cutting boards.) Twenty strokes on each side of the blade is sufficient.

Posted by: JTB at April 12, 2026 08:37 PM (yTvNw)

146 I got a Vietnam vet I was building a fence for talking one day after work over a couple of beers. Silver Star, Bronze with a V. Dude was a badass. He had never even breached the topic with his wife. She was in the next room crying. As I went to leave I saluted him and turned just in time to see her try to escape out and found her in the next room. She hugged me and thanked me saying "I never knew any of that in 48 years of marriage".
He passed from Agent Orange poisoning about a year later.

Posted by: Reforger at April 12, 2026 08:38 PM (emWLT)

147
Knot the Craw!

Posted by: Krebs 'v' Carnot: Epic Battle of the Cycling Stars (TM) Imprison! Imprison! Imprison! at April 12, 2026 08:38 PM (PwI9/)

148 The scarlet craw?

Posted by: Bertram Cabot, Jr. at April 12, 2026 08:38 PM (Cqx++)

149 And, SiD, I would happily reprise that trip. You're a fun companion for a museum. And that museum is great.

I do hope I can find some time to visit a rifle range up there. One that would let me shoot a Beowulf. And sight in my M-1.

Posted by: GWB at April 12, 2026 08:40 PM (flzjJ)

150 Knife dude doesn't use any oil. I guess I must be old-school.

Posted by: Rev. Wishbone at April 12, 2026 08:41 PM (Fbc0I)

151 Weasel, haven't checked your weather - burning outside these days? Shelter/no shelter?

A sudden strong wind forced me into the garage to burn a Penn Standard a little while ago. They really are a reliable simple stick. That cocoa hint right from light-up.

Posted by: rhomboid at April 12, 2026 08:42 PM (U/Byj)

152 .243 Winchester is a fine flat shooter.

Yes. I was gonna suggest the .25-06 but that might be a bit of overkill.
Posted by: Notorious BFD at April 12, 2026 08:22 PM (ceJ0R)

Is .243 Winchester obscure and difficult to find? That’s a plus in caliber creep. I have a .25-06 and was actually considering that as it could also be a fine early morning and late evening deer option as my 29 year old eyes and low light don’t play as well together as they used to do.

Regrettably that does not provide a justification for a new addition. It just works. Unless I added a second identical to the first. Eureka!

Posted by: Pete Bog at April 12, 2026 08:43 PM (WlUfk)

153 150 Knife dude doesn't use any oil. I guess I must be old-school.

Posted by: Rev. Wishbone at April 12, 2026 08:41 PM (Fbc0I)

I'm really old school. I use spit.

Posted by: Reforger at April 12, 2026 08:44 PM (emWLT)

154 I definitely will take any advice from the experts.
Posted by: Pillage Idiot at April 12, 2026 08:21 PM (HlyYF)

Not an expert, but have you tried a grip strengthener (anything from a squeezy ball to the big grip handles) and just using your index finger? Maybe strengthening would help with the overall issue?

Posted by: GWB at April 12, 2026 08:44 PM (flzjJ)

155 OT, and probably probably already mentioned, but Orban lost in Hungary.

Posted by: Bulg at April 12, 2026 08:45 PM (77rzZ)

156 I work with a guy who was a PJ. He's got some real PTSD. He was parachuting into Afghanistan and the Taliban shot him in the air. Ten times. And when he landed he broke his back.

I've got a lot of sympathy for the guy - he earned his PTSD and he did the thing - you know, So Others May Live.

But he's weird. I get it. I give him grace. But weird. Sometimes other people don't extend him that grace. His pain makes him grouchy and he can be hard to like for it.

Posted by: blaster - Fortis Fortuna Adiuvat at April 12, 2026 08:45 PM (NlEaG)

157 93 Thanks Whig. This gun has a couple of things going for it. First the F frame stands for female so better chance the gun will fit my hand. Shorter trigger pull.The Acro sight is factory installed. It is 9mm so uses the same ammo as my Glocks.It is frustrating though to not be able to handle it. The April Gun show has been postponed til May. I am hoping to get one of these dealers to bring one and hold it for me til I can handle it.
Posted by: Sharon(willow's apprentice)
=======
FWIW, check the Walther website for a possible holster. It can take a bit of time for new holsters to be made for a firearm and get out to the distributors. Usually though, the mfg has them on their online store first as an accessory.

Walther probably has one of the top out of the box triggers for their PDP and later series. Also never heard of a problem with Walther on warranties being honored or spare parts issues.

Let us know how you like it if you get one.

Posted by: whig at April 12, 2026 08:47 PM (E4rtv)

158 138 138 at 138
Posted by: Eromero at April 12, 2026 08:32 PM

Dude! 6-7!!

Posted by: Gen Z'er at April 12, 2026 08:47 PM (0sNs1)

159 Guns!

Posted by: Mark Andrew Edwards, Buy ammo at April 12, 2026 08:47 PM (xcxpd)

160 Is .243 Winchester obscure and difficult to find?

Not at all. It's probably in the top 5 or so most popular medium game cartridges.

That’s a plus in caliber creep.

You need to join the 6mm Wonder Cartridge of the Month Club. 6mm Dasher, 6mm ARC, 6mm Max, 6mm GT... Barely a dime's worth of difference in terminal performance but everybody has to get their name on something.

Posted by: Oddbob at April 12, 2026 08:48 PM (vTZFs)

161 Finally started filling the 9mm can. I aim to do 100 rounds a day broken up into two sessions at the press. After all the prepped brass for that is filled, have to finish up some 30 carbine, then about 100 rounds of Garand food.

Probably some 45C after (for the Model 1866 lever). Definitely not enough shooting going on, ammo consumption has been pitiful lately. And one M1 and the 1911 need full disassembly and cleaning.

1911 might have something going on with it, after cleaning have to try to reproduce the odd jams I got several times last year. Though I have switched to round-nose from SWCs (found them at the same price), so might not be able to diagnose the issue until I try SWCs again.

Posted by: rhomboid at April 12, 2026 08:50 PM (U/Byj)

162 I got one of those 2-sided whetstones. Works great on my heritage carving knife, what once belonged to me dear old Mum. Carved many a Thanksgiving turkey, that knife.

Posted by: Don Black at April 12, 2026 08:50 PM (ZxPkt)

163 But she wants something that has real rules.
Posted by: blaster - Fortis Fortuna Adiuvat at April 12, 2026 08:37 PM (NlEaG)

blaster, I’ve found that the most eye-opening experience is how your mind goes completely blank under pressure. The rules are forgotten, your best-laid plans go out the window.
Eventually, you get better control.

Posted by: RI Red at April 12, 2026 08:50 PM (7PD8l)

164 True fact: my Grandpa helped build the Enola Gay.
Posted by: Pug Mahon, Trumpy can do magic at April 12, 2026 08:10 PM (0aYVJ)

As did my wife's grandpa, at the Martin Bomber Plant (now Building D on Offutt AFB) in Bellevue, Nebraska.

Posted by: Schnorflepuppy (OT but harmless) at April 12, 2026 08:50 PM (t2oSI)

165 This was an excellent trip. If you want to get re-energized and roll back the black pill a little, go to that museum with kids.

Posted by: blaster - Fortis Fortuna Adiuvat at April 12, 2026 08:27 PM (NlEaG)

Anyone got kids they can let us borrow for the NoVaMoMe trip? How much to rent them? [In best "Jake" voice] "How much for the little girl?"

Posted by: GWB at April 12, 2026 08:50 PM (OKRd3)

166 Posted by: rhomboid at April 12, 2026 08:42 PM (U/Byj)
----
Planning to take the hut down tomorrow. Lows are in the 50s now so tolerable. CAO Brazilia Gol tonight!

Posted by: Weasel at April 12, 2026 08:50 PM (qdktZ)

167 Did get to the range, I wanted to do more drills with my CZ P-07 collection. Last week was my comp/red dot combo, this week was my DAO from CZ Custom. It has a long, heavy, but smooth DA trigger press and no optic. I also have a fine Don Hume leather holster for it.

I found it faster to do my Dot Torture drills with it, as I didn't have a comp to snag on my kydex holster. But though the groups were ironically better, they weren't...great. I'll try my normal DA/SA CZ next week.

I also did strong hand only drills, two shot strings from holster and low ready. I have to say the front sight was hard for old eyes to see, I missed the red dot here. After some bad strings to the left and right of the target, I figured out to pop the front sight up and hold low and at 7 yards, that put things in 3" circle just fine.

Posted by: Mark Andrew Edwards, Buy ammo at April 12, 2026 08:51 PM (xcxpd)

168 You need to join the 6mm Wonder Cartridge of the Month Club. 6mm Dasher, 6mm ARC, 6mm Max, 6mm GT... Barely a dime's worth of difference in terminal performance but everybody has to get their name on something.
Posted by: Oddbob at April 12, 2026 08:48 PM (vTZFs)

I like that. I could collect one of each. And then go to work on the five and seven mm rarities. I like it a lot.

Excellent advice.

And I’ll go off to look at lefty .243 Winchesters for sale. Dare I ask best online gun shop?

Posted by: Pete Bog at April 12, 2026 08:52 PM (WlUfk)

169 Posted by: Pete Bog at April 12, 2026 08:43 PM

.243 Winchester should be pretty easy to find.

Handloading can really open up some plusness to caliber creep, you know.

Posted by: Duncanthrax at April 12, 2026 08:52 PM (0sNs1)

170 159 Guns!

Boobs!

Posted by: Bulg at April 12, 2026 08:52 PM (77rzZ)

171 So I bought some cheap mineral oil off amazon. Like $8, does not smell like cat urine, unlike Ballistol. Shockingly, it cleaned off the carbon just fine and seemed fine for lubricating as well.

I will try this some more, might be a cheaper alternative to Ballistol or CLP Breakfree. It doesn't work great for copper fowling, so there's still a need for that Hoppes product but still...$8 for 32 oz...if this works, it's nice.

Posted by: Mark Andrew Edwards, Buy ammo at April 12, 2026 08:54 PM (xcxpd)

172 170 159 Guns!

Boobs!
Posted by: Bulg at April 12, 2026 08:52 PM (77rzZ)

Yes....yes!

Posted by: Mark Andrew Edwards, Buy ammo at April 12, 2026 08:55 PM (xcxpd)

173 Knife sharpening is a talent, - a skill that can be learned. Not everybody can do it. They create machines that are satisfactory, but they chew up you knife.

You would never run one of my knives across your fingers or you would be in emergency.

Posted by: Rev. Wishbone at April 12, 2026 08:55 PM (Fbc0I)

174 And I’ll go off to look at lefty .243 Winchesters for sale. Dare I ask best online gun shop?
Posted by: Pete Bog at April 12, 2026 08:52 PM (WlUfk)

Gunbroker and Proxibid work best for me.

Posted by: Mark Andrew Edwards, Buy ammo at April 12, 2026 08:55 PM (xcxpd)

175 And I’ll go off to look at lefty .243 Winchesters for sale. Dare I ask best online gun shop?
Posted by: Pete Bog at April 12, 2026 08:52 PM

--------

The one that has it in stock 😂

Posted by: Matthew Kant Cipher at April 12, 2026 08:55 PM (qVGoX)

176 So, can breast milk be considered breast ammo?

Posted by: Bulg at April 12, 2026 08:56 PM (77rzZ)

177 Not an expert, but have you tried a grip strengthener (anything from a squeezy ball to the big grip handles) and just using your index finger? Maybe strengthening would help with the overall issue?
Posted by: GWB
======
Curiously enough, I have been working on that due to my loss of grip strength via nerve impingement (now gone after surgery). Curiously enough, I found using one of those cheap grabbers on Amazon for picking up yard waste, sticks, etc. gives a helluva workout for grip strength muscles. "Foldable Reacher Grabber Tool, Long 32"

Another cheap Amazon toy tip came from rehab. It looks like a jelly version of brass knuckles and it works on the extensor muscles by opening and relaxing them. "Hand Grip Strengthener, Finger Exerciser, Grip Strength Trainer" Pnrskter about six bucks.

Posted by: whig at April 12, 2026 08:56 PM (E4rtv)

178 Pete Bob, 6.5 CM might be a good dual-purpose cartridge for you, but more a touch more recoily than .243.

Posted by: Duncanthrax at April 12, 2026 08:56 PM (0sNs1)

179 The SEAL sniper instructor who uses my range sometimes and also competes in PSA (?), precision rifle competitions, uses 6 Dasher. Can confirm, I can't keep track of the 6mm variations I see among the long-range shooters at the range.

Posted by: rhomboid at April 12, 2026 08:56 PM (U/Byj)

180 6mm Dasher, 6mm ARC, 6mm Max, 6mm GT...
Posted by: Oddbob at April 12, 2026 08:48 PM (vTZFs)

When you started with "Dasher" my brain immediately wondered if you could fit them all into a Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer song. And what caliber would be the red-nosed one.

I'm weird, too.

Posted by: GWB at April 12, 2026 08:57 PM (OKRd3)

181 Pete Bog, .243 Winchester is one of the classic cartridges. Will take down everything from deer to hogs to woodchucks.
One of my most memorable hunting shots was taking a boar at 240 yards with a shot in the ear.
Think of it as an AR 15 round with same speed and more mass.

Posted by: RI Red at April 12, 2026 08:57 PM (+EVjX)

182 So I bought some cheap mineral oil off amazon. Like $8, does not smell like cat urine, unlike Ballistol. Shockingly, it cleaned off the carbon just fine and seemed fine for lubricating as well.

I will try this some more, might be a cheaper alternative to Ballistol or CLP Breakfree. It doesn't work great for copper fowling, so there's still a need for that Hoppes product but still...$8 for 32 oz...if this works, it's nice.
Posted by: Mark Andrew Edwards, Buy ammo at April 12, 2026 08:54 PM

Two words: Ed's Red

Posted by: Duncanthrax at April 12, 2026 08:57 PM (0sNs1)

183 s .243 Winchester obscure and difficult to find?

Not at all. It's probably in the top 5 or so most popular medium game cartridges.

That’s a plus in caliber creep.

You need to join the 6mm Wonder Cartridge of the Month Club. 6mm Dasher, 6mm ARC, 6mm Max, 6mm GT... Barely a dime's worth of difference in terminal performance but everybody has to get their name on something.
Posted by: Oddbob

What you need is a 6mm Remington.

Posted by: Itinerant Alley Butcher at April 12, 2026 08:59 PM (/lPRQ)

184 So, can breast milk be considered breast ammo?
Posted by: Bulg at April 12, 2026 08:56 PM

Like ammo, BM is a consumable.

Unlike ammo, Weasel does not actively encourage its acquisition and fundamental-focused consumption.

Posted by: Duncanthrax at April 12, 2026 09:00 PM (0sNs1)

185 141 It is totally different experience than standing and shooting at paper. You've added motion, drawing from the holster, and a time factor to it. You would not believe how much adrenaline it adds.

Posted by: blaster - Fortis Fortuna Adiuvat at April 12, 2026 08:30 PM (NlEaG)

Even better - go sign up to do IDPA drills. You will not believe how much more realistic it is. And they are very friendly to newcomers.
Posted by: RI Red at April 12, 2026 08:34 PM (TOBhH)

Endorsed

Posted by: Mark Andrew Edwards, Buy ammo at April 12, 2026 09:00 PM (xcxpd)

186 Gooooollllllllll! I believe that's how that cigar is pronounced, Weasel. Speaking of Brasil, I have a CAO BX3 and an AJ Dias de Gloria Brazil in the line-up to try soon.

Mata fina and arapiraca rarely let me down.

Posted by: rhomboid at April 12, 2026 09:01 PM (U/Byj)

187 171 So I bought some cheap mineral oil off amazon. Like $8, does not smell like cat urine, unlike Ballistol. Shockingly, it cleaned off the carbon just fine and seemed fine for lubricating as well.

I will try this some more, might be a cheaper alternative to Ballistol or CLP Breakfree. It doesn't work great for copper fowling, so there's still a need for that Hoppes product but still...$8 for 32 oz...if this works, it's nice.
Posted by: Mark Andrew Edwards
=======
Not the greatest for lube but definitely, if you got food grade, not toxic. Fwiw, best bulk lube for a firearm is probably Mobil One.

Need a cleaner with lube qualities, ATF aka transmission fluid plus a bit of acetone works fine.

Only use ATF though on bare metal as it can be a bit harsh on plastics and not something you want on wood.

I used both in the past for task when shooting a lot but really prefer some of the more specialized greases for semi auto slides, a lighter oil for trigger mechanisms, and less smelly bore and better metal fouling cleaners (ATF plus Acetone).

SHTF, Synthetic motor oil and ATF as a bore solvent alone would probably do okay.

Posted by: whig at April 12, 2026 09:02 PM (E4rtv)

188 Like ammo, BM is a consumable.
Posted by: Duncanthrax at April 12, 2026 09:00 PM (0sNs1)

Am I gonna get in trouble if I mention dry-fire for practice?

Posted by: GWB at April 12, 2026 09:02 PM (OKRd3)

189 182 So I bought some cheap mineral oil off amazon. Like $8, does not smell like cat urine, unlike Ballistol. Shockingly, it cleaned off the carbon just fine and seemed fine for lubricating as well.

I will try this some more, might be a cheaper alternative to Ballistol or CLP Breakfree. It doesn't work great for copper fowling, so there's still a need for that Hoppes product but still...$8 for 32 oz...if this works, it's nice.
Posted by: Mark Andrew Edwards, Buy ammo at April 12, 2026 08:54 PM

Two words: Ed's Red
Posted by: Duncanthrax at April 12, 2026 08:57 PM (0sNs1)

Never used that. Anyone else ever compared it to CLP or Ballistol?

Posted by: Mark Andrew Edwards, Buy ammo at April 12, 2026 09:02 PM (xcxpd)

190 Two words: Ed's Red
Posted by: Duncanthrax
=======
Ed has two formulas floating around on the net, one without lanolin and one with.

The lanolin gives a bit more rust protection but is a pain to find nowadays and to mix in.

Posted by: whig at April 12, 2026 09:03 PM (E4rtv)

191 Greetings Everyone

Bang! Bang! Bang!

Better than Fang Fang Fang.

Posted by: Anonymous Rogue in Kalifornistan (ARiK) at April 12, 2026 09:03 PM (QGaXH)

192
And I’ll go off to look at lefty .243 Winchesters for sale. Dare I ask best online gun shop?
Posted by: Pete Bog

gun.deals is the place if you seek gun deals.
It's a web crawler that hoovers up such things. Decent search engine if you have the SKU or UPC.

Posted by: Itinerant Alley Butcher at April 12, 2026 09:04 PM (/lPRQ)

193 Not the greatest for lube but definitely, if you got food grade, not toxic. Fwiw, best bulk lube for a firearm is probably Mobil One.

Need a cleaner with lube qualities, ATF aka transmission fluid plus a bit of acetone works fine.

Only use ATF though on bare metal as it can be a bit harsh on plastics and not something you want on wood.

I used both in the past for task when shooting a lot but really prefer some of the more specialized greases for semi auto slides, a lighter oil for trigger mechanisms, and less smelly bore and better metal fouling cleaners (ATF plus Acetone).

SHTF, Synthetic motor oil and ATF as a bore solvent alone would probably do okay.
Posted by: whig at April 12, 2026 09:02 PM (E4rtv)

I do have Mobil 1 as well. But that's not so great for cleaning

Not so sure I'd go for ATF and Acetone, that sounds like an argument in favor of Ballistol/mineral oil.

Posted by: Mark Andrew Edwards, Buy ammo at April 12, 2026 09:05 PM (xcxpd)

194 Pete Bob, 6.5 CM might be a good dual-purpose cartridge for you, but more a touch more recoily than .243.
Posted by: Duncanthrax at April 12, 2026 08:56 PM (0sNs1)

Concur with DThrax. But 6.5 CM opens up a whole new world of shooting. This is a “magic” caliber that allows lunkheads like me to participate in long range precision shooting.
It’s almost ridiculous how easy and accurate shooting at 3-500 yards is.

Posted by: RI Red at April 12, 2026 09:07 PM (+EVjX)

195 Posted by: Mark Andrew Edwards

Ed's (homemade recipe) is similar to the old GI bore cleaner when they used corrosive ammo primers. Forget the designation but it works well for even corrosive ammo cleaning.

From CE Harris, former Ruger engineer and well known in firearms land,

"Thirty years ago I mixed my first "Ed's Red" or "ER" bore cleaner. It has passed the test of time. Thousands of satisfied users think this home-mixed cleaner is every bit as effective as more expensive commercial products.

The design intent of “ER” was to provide cleaning action similar to Vietnam-era military rifle bore cleaner, Mil-C-372B. When the optional acetone is included ER is more effective than Hoppe's for removing plastic fouling in shotgun bores, or heavily-caked carbon fouling in semi-automatic rifles or pistols. Users have reported it as effective as Kano Kroil as a penetrant for loosening rusted bolts, engine parts and in removing leading in revolvers. “ER” is less expensive than commercial bore cleaners, and as effective, providing excellent corrosion protection and fully adequate residual lubrication"

https://tinyurl.com/CE-Harris-on-Eds-Red

Posted by: whig at April 12, 2026 09:07 PM (E4rtv)

196 outdoors55 is great for all things sharpening. I love his experimental attitude.

I remember one video where he was reviewing one of those horrible V-shaped carbide sharpeners. You know, the ones that sort of tear up the side of the knife in order to make something jagged enough that will sort of cut, while ruining the knife? When I saw the knives he was going to use, I laughed, because I recognized one as being of Maxamet steel, which is extremely wear-resistant, just chock full of carbides. It was such a ridiculous match to the cartoon sharpener, which was his intent.

Posted by: Splunge at April 12, 2026 09:08 PM (KEowH)

197 Formula from CE Harris in above link.

"The “ER” formula was based upon proven principles, incorporating two polar and two nonpolar solvents. It was adapted from the recipe published in Hatcher's Notebook for "Frankford Arsenal Cleaner No.18," substituting readily available modern materials.

Hatcher’s formula called for equal parts of acetone, turpentine, Pratts Astral Oil and sperm oil, and optionally 200 grams of anhydrous lanolin being added per liter.

Today I recommend "K1" kerosene of the type normally sold for use in indoor space heaters. Users have reported successful substitution of civilian aviation grade kerosene such as Turbo-A.

An inexpensive, effective substitute for sperm oil is Dexron automatic transmission fluid."

Posted by: whig at April 12, 2026 09:09 PM (E4rtv)

198 Say, I've noticed that the price of ammo is up significantly. Weasel, why didn't you tell us to buy ammo before this??

Posted by: Splunge at April 12, 2026 09:09 PM (KEowH)

199 Personally, I think the effort to procure and mix lanolin into the Ed's Red formula is worth it.

As a plus, range babes are 92.463% pro-lanolin.

Posted by: Duncanthrax at April 12, 2026 09:10 PM (0sNs1)

200 As far as knife sharpening goes, why not use one of the tools with pre-set angled steel and carbide? Draw the knife through it consistently and sharpen your blade.

I have trouble with consistency on stones.

Posted by: GWB at April 12, 2026 09:10 PM (OKRd3)

201 Posted by: Pillage Idiot at April 12, 2026 08:21 PM (HlyYF)

I am not the best at this situation but based on my shooting, history, I'd look seriously at a shotgun for fun and defense. I've found buckshot to be less reliant on precise trigger press. Not saying you can 'jerk' the trigger but it might be better in your circumstance.

Get a Mossberg pump in 20ga or if you think 12ga is in your capacity, ammo is a lot easier to find and its more powerful.

Posted by: Mark Andrew Edwards, Buy ammo at April 12, 2026 09:11 PM (xcxpd)

202 The OCD can get intense
Posted by: Coelacanth at April 12, 2026 07:12 PM (vt7xw)
======

I have a set of Chosera Professional stones. Love 'em.

Also, a Naniwa Aotoshi 2K Green Brick

A DMT XX Coarse Diamond stone for flattening.

Finally, an adjustable waterstone sink bridge.

Posted by: mrp at April 12, 2026 09:13 PM (rj6Yv)

203 OK, all y'all. 9:14 thank you time.

Thank you!

Hope to see you all next Sunday and at the 2026 NoVaMoMe!

Posted by: Weasel at April 12, 2026 09:14 PM (qdktZ)

204 'night Weasel!

Posted by: mrp at April 12, 2026 09:15 PM (rj6Yv)

205 I do have Mobil 1 as well. But that's not so great for cleaning Not so sure I'd go for ATF and Acetone, that sounds like an argument in favor of Ballistol/mineral oil.
Posted by: Mark Andrew Edwards
----------
As someone who restored old Mausers, Ballistol is fine if you use it regularly but in an older and pitted bore, it can leave crap in the pits in a longer bore. And the oil in that case can actually accelerate bore rusting in those pits making them deeper. Works fine in a clean smooth enough bore. But so do other things.

You can leave off acetone in Ed's Red and it works slower. ATF has its own corrosion removers and cleansers so cars can operate. Works okay on bores. The Synthetic formulas of ATF smell a bit less than the old cheap crap. The kerosene added to the ATF in Eds Red makes it flow better by thinning the mix and allows the ATF to penetrate fouling better but it smells like kerosene.

Posted by: whig at April 12, 2026 09:15 PM (E4rtv)

206 My favorite Japanese synthetic water stones are the Shapton Glass series, though the new Rockstar series is very similar, and cheaper.

A Rockstar 500 would be a great candidate for a do-everything stone, except for supersteels, where you need diamonds or CBN.

Posted by: Splunge at April 12, 2026 09:16 PM (KEowH)

207 Drive-by lurker:
Don Diego - Churchill, Dominican w a Connecticut shade wrapper.

Love yinz long time!

Posted by: Heirloominati at April 12, 2026 09:16 PM (erhDr)

208 Hatcher’s formula called for ..., and optionally 200 grams of anhydrous lanolin being added per liter.
Posted by: whig at April 12, 2026 09:09 PM

Whiskey Tango Hotel??? Hatcher was a 9mm dude?

Posted by: Duncanthrax at April 12, 2026 09:17 PM (0sNs1)

209 https://tinyurl.com/CE-Harris-on-Eds-Red
Posted by: whig at April 12, 2026 09:07 PM (E4rtv)

Eh. Sounds like a lot of work for something you can buy for a moderate price. I mean, unless this is less than $10 for a quart, it seems there are better options...unless you are cleaning large numbers of firearms as an armorer. As a recreational shooter, I don't see the point.

Posted by: Mark Andrew Edwards, Buy ammo at April 12, 2026 09:18 PM (xcxpd)

210 *tips cap*

Good night Weasel, thanks as always!

Posted by: Matthew Kant Cipher at April 12, 2026 09:18 PM (qVGoX)

211 199 Personally, I think the effort to procure and mix lanolin into the Ed's Red formula is worth it.

As a plus, range babes are 92.463% pro-lanolin.
Posted by: Duncanthrax

Make sure you get anhydrous lanolin if you want to put it in Eds Red. Some of the skin softener lanolin has stuff you do not want to use.

Posted by: whig at April 12, 2026 09:18 PM (E4rtv)

212 You can leave off acetone in Ed's Red and it works slower. ATF has its own corrosion removers and cleansers so cars can operate. Works okay on bores. The Synthetic formulas of ATF smell a bit less than the old cheap crap. The kerosene added to the ATF in Eds Red makes it flow better by thinning the mix and allows the ATF to penetrate fouling better but it smells like kerosene.
Posted by: whig at April 12, 2026 09:15 PM (E4rtv)

All right, more data. Thanks Whig.

Posted by: Mark Andrew Edwards, Buy ammo at April 12, 2026 09:19 PM (xcxpd)

213 Whiskey Tango Hotel??? Hatcher was a 9mm dude?
Posted by: Duncanthrax
=======
Army engineer. Col Hatcher was an interesting character and Hatcher's Notebook is well worth reading along with his book on the Garand.

Posted by: whig at April 12, 2026 09:20 PM (E4rtv)

214 Liked the knife sharpening guy a lot.

Posted by: Eromero at April 12, 2026 09:20 PM (LHPAg)

215 Evening, Weasel and Gun Thread folks. Well, I did manage to get a Gamo 3-9X40 air rifle scope mounted to my old Cooey model 750 .22 boltie. One end of the dovetail strip is attached by a screw to the screw hole for the ramp-style rear sight. The back end is held by an 8-32 screw into a hole I drilled and tapped into the receiver. I did not drill through into the chamber!

There is something fishy with this scope. The cross-hairs are askew from the adjusting knobs. Wonder if this is normal, or wrong, but fixable?

And when out for a road test with my old pickup, met a neighbor out cruising around in a 4-wheeler, with his Ruger 10-22, shooting gophers.

Posted by: Alberta Oil Peon at April 12, 2026 09:21 PM (utfVc)

216 Breaking (wind) News: Eric Swalwell (D-CA), the Horde's favorite "Pffft." commenter, has suspended his campaign for Kalifornia Governor.

Posted by: AoSHQ Celebrity News Bureau and Rumour Centre at April 12, 2026 09:21 PM (0sNs1)

217 Eid Al-Fitr and Eid Al-Adha

Know the diff and be a Brit

Posted by: r hennigantx at April 12, 2026 09:22 PM (/+uur)

218 What is the big deal of fucking the help?
Seems to be a big deal with Progressives.

Posted by: r hennigantx at April 12, 2026 09:23 PM (/+uur)

219 Breaking (wind) News: Eric Swalwell (D-CA), the Horde's favorite "Pffft." commenter, has suspended his campaign for Kalifornia Governor.
Posted by: AoSHQ Celebrity News Bureau and Rumour Centre at April 12, 2026 09:21 PM (0sNs1)

Announced on a Sunday. Come Monday's media...crickets.

Posted by: Diogenes at April 12, 2026 09:25 PM (2WIwB)

220 All right, more data. Thanks Whig.
Posted by: Mark Andrew Edwards

I made a batch years ago and used it to restore old rifle barrels along with playing around with electrolytic fouling removal, various bore solvents, etc.

That being said, I have more optimized solvents and lubricants for every firearm that I have. Lubriplate for the Garand and M1 Carbine, Eno's slide glide for Semi Auto pistol slides, Breakfree Collectors for long term storage, etc. etc. Lead solvents, copper solvents, etc.

I have about as many types of lubricants and cleaners as I do spare holsters lying around.

Posted by: whig at April 12, 2026 09:25 PM (E4rtv)

221 Pete Bob, 6.5 CM might be a good dual-purpose cartridge for you, but more a touch more recoily than .243.
Posted by: Duncanthrax at April 12, 2026 08:56 PM (0sNs1)

I actually have a 6.5 CM, always suppressed and it is an absolute tack driver. More gun than i need in this role. Was also looking at 7mm PRC just for the hell of it.

Posted by: Pete Bog at April 12, 2026 09:26 PM (WlUfk)

222 Dems get rid of Swal and add 10 pointes to Steyer.

Posted by: r hennigantx at April 12, 2026 09:26 PM (/+uur)

223 I have about as many types of lubricants and cleaners as I do spare holsters lying around.
Posted by: whig at April 12, 2026 09:25 PM (E4rtv)

Now that's a terrifying thought

Posted by: Mark Andrew Edwards, Buy ammo at April 12, 2026 09:29 PM (xcxpd)

224 201 Posted by: Pillage Idiot at April 12, 2026 08:21 PM (HlyYF)

I am not the best at this situation but based on my shooting, history, I'd look seriously at a shotgun for fun and defense. I've found buckshot to be less reliant on precise trigger press. Not saying you can 'jerk' the trigger but it might be better in your circumstance.

Get a Mossberg pump in 20ga or if you think 12ga is in your capacity, ammo is a lot easier to find and its more powerful.
Posted by: Mark Andrew Edwards
------
People also generally shoot longarms better than handguns. Three points of stabilization versus two (if you use both hands).

Pillage, dunno if you have any but a 22 LR revolver is one of the better trainers for trigger pulling. If you can find one, I recommend a High Standard Sentinel (used as they don't make these anymore) with a 4-6 inch barrel to give an adequate sight line. The same revolver was also sold as a JC Higgins (Sears), and a pseudo cowboy (but double action revolver).

Smith and Wesson Kit guns are also nice but more expensive used. Dunno about the recent Taurus revolvers but those might do fine as well. Just get a 22 LR revolver and fire it double action.

Posted by: whig at April 12, 2026 09:32 PM (E4rtv)

225 You are collectively a fount of knowledge and experience. I appreciate the insight. I have somehow managed to avoid it but did some supplemental research on .243 WIN and it is a heck of a cartridge.

Now I need one. or two.

Thank you for the input. I really do appreciate it.

Posted by: Pete Bog at April 12, 2026 09:32 PM (WlUfk)

226 Now the House needs to kick Swalwell out.

Posted by: gKWVE at April 12, 2026 09:36 PM (gKWVE)

227 Now that's a terrifying thought
Posted by: Mark Andrew Edwards
=======
Fortunately, most are in small bottles. Outer's Tri Clean is a decent and cheap CLP but I don't know it they make it anymore.

Used a lot more CLP during the last years where I shot much simply because convenient and easy on AR pattern rifles which I was shooting at the time.

Only stuff I actively hate is Frog Lube and its various competitors. Veggie oil based but it can set up into a caked mess if not used frequently. Same for people using WD-40, has waxes in the base which sets up over time into cement.

On the one bolt action Frog Lube test gun, after about a year, I had to strip it and start from scratch. Used lacquer thinner to do it. Was causing issues on the firing pin channel, sluggish bolt, etc. Nasty stuff.

Oh, and mineral spirits (the non recycled stuff) is also pretty good as a general firearm cleaner and bore solvent for carbon deposits.

Posted by: whig at April 12, 2026 09:38 PM (E4rtv)

228 Now the House needs to kick Swalwell out.

Won't happen unless his stench starts to rub off (I know, phrasing) on other Ds. Until then, his vote is still useful to them.

Posted by: Oddbob at April 12, 2026 09:39 PM (vTZFs)

229 225 You are collectively a fount of knowledge and experience. I appreciate the insight. I have somehow managed to avoid it but did some supplemental research on .243 WIN and it is a heck of a cartridge.

Now I need one. or two.

Thank you for the input. I really do appreciate it.
Posted by: Pete Bog
========
The .243 Winchester used to be a bench rest competition cartridge until faster, longer reaching, etc. cartridges were invented. Still used a lot for recoil sensitive youths and females to take down deer.

Posted by: whig at April 12, 2026 09:39 PM (E4rtv)

230 That arc welding video is a great example of a training video before lawyers and liability concerns caused the absolute blizzard of safety warnings.

Posted by: EFG at April 12, 2026 09:43 PM (QH8Ep)

231 We are smoothered, nay, choking to death on safety.

Posted by: EFG at April 12, 2026 09:44 PM (QH8Ep)

232 RE improving grip strength and flexibility - I rather badly damaged my left hand last July. 8 weeks in an immobilizer splint followed by months of “don’t do that”. Hand is still stiff and my grasp is down. I have been using a little exerciser often sold to guitarists. One big spring loaded pad for the palm, individual spring keys for each finger. Mine is pretty light but it has helped me tremendously.

Posted by: Coelacanth at April 12, 2026 09:51 PM (vt7xw)

233 Y'all have a good night. Got word mom is in the hospital ER after a fall.

Posted by: whig at April 12, 2026 09:53 PM (E4rtv)

234 Good luck Whig and best wishes to Mom

Posted by: Pete Bog at April 12, 2026 09:55 PM (WlUfk)

235 Y'all have a good night. Got word mom is in the hospital ER after a fall.
Posted by: whig at April 12, 2026 09:53 PM (E4rtv)

May she enjoy a rapid recovery from any injuries, Whig.

Posted by: Alberta Oil Peon at April 12, 2026 09:57 PM (utfVc)

236 Wasn't able to go to the range today for my usual monthly women's shooting class due to other commitments, but have already signed up for next month, which happens to be on Mother's day. Told my grown kids they're going to need to work any Mother's day plans around my class time. The first class I went to was on Mother's day last year.

Posted by: Frankie at April 12, 2026 09:59 PM (q88rB)

237 Best wishes to you and mom, whig.

Posted by: Weasel at April 12, 2026 09:59 PM (qdktZ)

238 Prayers up, Whig.

Posted by: GWB at April 12, 2026 10:01 PM (OKRd3)

239 ONT nood

Posted by: GWB at April 12, 2026 10:01 PM (OKRd3)

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