Gun Thread: Post Tax Day 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 Post Tax Day Edition?

Q: Weasel, should we ask you about taxes?
A: No. Still in a bad mood. Ask again in about 25 years.

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

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FUNdamentals

Fundamentalin' of range bag stuff, that is.

So what's in your range bag?

When your ol' pal Weasel goes to the range, I take what I assume is the usual stuff; one or maybe two guns, 50-100 rounds of ammo, and targets. But what about other stuff? I'm talking about the stuff that just lives in the range bag in case it's needed someday? In this category I count a stapler, staples and a Sharpie for the targets, a small thing of gun oil/lube, a rag or two, and a very small assortment of tools (e.g. a small screwdriver). Also a few Band-Aids and a blood clotting bandage, just in case. Finally, a small notebook and pen or pencil for range-babe phone numbers. I have one range bag for pistols and a slightly larger one trips to the rifle range which contains different stuff.

What am I leaving out? What do you take in addition to these basics?

Also, as long as we're discussing range bags, what kind do you use? After years of trying different setups, I settled on Competitive Edge Dynamics bags. They are very well made and durable, surviving hundreds and hundreds of range trips and matches all over the country and they have great features. The design has changed a little over the years, but it's essentially the same as the ones I purchased some time ago. Here is a link to something similar from Midway USA at about the same price point.

Any other range bag recommendations?

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AR-18 and AR-180

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Barrel Relining

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This is Pretty Dang Cool

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What the Hell Is a Computer?

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Our Pal Industrial Ventilation

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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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Surprise!

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Highway Patrol!

This week's episode: Motorcycle B!

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Fire Maidens of Outer Space!

I ask you - who doesn't like a good Fire Maiden from outer space?

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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 19, 2026 07:00 PM (Ia/+0)

2 st!

Posted by: RedMindBlueState at April 19, 2026 07:00 PM (Wnv9h)

3 bzng

Posted by: Eromero at April 19, 2026 07:00 PM (LHPAg)

4 rst

Posted by: Reforger at April 19, 2026 07:00 PM (WYOCN)

5 Well...f*ck.

Posted by: RedMindBlueState at April 19, 2026 07:00 PM (Wnv9h)

6 Greetings all!!

Going to check out the content!

Posted by: Scuba_Dude at April 19, 2026 07:02 PM (QrtBZ)

7 More important than Post-Tax Day, it's Patriot Day! Honor those who stood against the gun confiscators and fired the Shot Heard 'Round The World!

Posted by: GWB at April 19, 2026 07:04 PM (UmLOA)

8 Howdy!

Posted by: Puddleglum, drive by pew pew at April 19, 2026 07:05 PM (sAmhv)

9 Shorter Gertie:

"All right, Mr. DeMille, I'm ready for my close-up."

Posted by: Pillage Idiot at April 19, 2026 07:06 PM (HlyYF)

10 BTW, you know what those Patriots were doing prior to that day?

Focusing on FUNDAMENTALS, of course!

Posted by: GWB at April 19, 2026 07:07 PM (UmLOA)

11 Good evening Horde. Thanks Weasel!

Ear protection goes in the range bag too.

Posted by: TRex - fundamental dino at April 19, 2026 07:08 PM (IQ6Gq)

12 Back!

No range report.

In my bag is eye and hearing protection, handgun magazines (empty), stapler, staples, Kestrel, range finder, batteries, pens, Sharpies, Leatherman and other bits and bobs.

Posted by: Scuba_Dude at April 19, 2026 07:08 PM (QrtBZ)

13 More important than Post-Tax Day, it's Patriot Day! Honor those who stood against the gun confiscators and fired the Shot Heard 'Round The World!
Posted by: GWB at April 19, 2026 07:04 PM

Yes. Yes, it is. And since I have the day off tomorrow, I will celebrate by going to the range and shooting things, as the Founding Fathers intended. Of course, they would have shot most of the denizens of Bacon Hill, but current law frowns on this, and I will settle for paper instead.

Posted by: RedMindBlueState at April 19, 2026 07:08 PM (Wnv9h)

14 Thanks to everyone that gave me "trigger pull" advice last week.

Range report is all bullets on paper - even with hands shaking quite a bit prior to trigger pull.

Posted by: Pillage Idiot at April 19, 2026 07:09 PM (HlyYF)

15 bzng
Posted by: Eromero at April 19, 2026 07:00 PM (LHPAg)

Not the sound you want to hear from your weapon!
(Been there, done that, when my magazine disassembled suddenly. It's followed by the sound of ammo hitting the counter and floor.)

Posted by: GWB at April 19, 2026 07:09 PM (UmLOA)

16 Wow...I have a little gallery gun similar to the Remington in the video being relined. A little Flobert cap gun. Fun little toy that the RMBS Dad restored years ago.

Posted by: RedMindBlueState at April 19, 2026 07:12 PM (Wnv9h)

17 I remember “Fire Maidens from Outer Space”, if only for the awesome title. Can’t recall the flick itself very well though.

Posted by: rhomboid at April 19, 2026 07:12 PM (2jLYo)

18 In addition to the wide array of small tools (that are always in my truck), I do have a little set of three punches in the range bag.

Posted by: Pillage Idiot at April 19, 2026 07:13 PM (HlyYF)

19 Usually can watch movie and still follow along here, not letting me tonight

Posted by: Skip at April 19, 2026 07:13 PM (Ia/+0)

20 Awhile back I had a revelation. Pistol range bags are relatively inexpensive and I can buy one for each of the magazine systems I own. Now they are neatly lined up in a row, with big hanger tags on them that say things like "1911 45" and "P365." I have a separate bag for things like tools, band aids, spare eye and ear protection, etc.

Posted by: Idaho Spudboy at April 19, 2026 07:14 PM (9P99/)

21 5 Well...f*ck.

Posted by: RedMindBlueState at April 19, 2026 07:00 PM

If you skip Skip, then you were still first!

Posted by: Pillage Idiot at April 19, 2026 07:14 PM (HlyYF)

22 It will be a short night for me as I have to head into office tomorrow.
Looking to hit the range next weekend.
Will just stick with the rifle and getting it dialed in.
Might also hit the shotgun range if there is time and hit some clay.

Posted by: Scuba_Dude at April 19, 2026 07:14 PM (QrtBZ)

23 Posted by: Scuba_Dude at April 19, 2026 07:08 PM (QrtBZ)
----
Yep. Eye and hearing protection. Forgot to mention that! Thx

Posted by: Weasel at April 19, 2026 07:15 PM (PVV5z)

24 Howdy Weasel-San!

My range bag is a 20year old pink Patagonia backpack.

George (Ruger Mark IV) and some .22 ammo is always in there. Small first aid kit, extra eyes and ears, a pink and green bandana, and the gun of the day plus appropriate ammo.

Also a Rosary. Because never go to the range without the most powerful weapon in my arsenal.

Range time yesterday was awesome. Shot the Walther PPQ like it was an extension of my hand and brain. And I always finish a session plinking with George. Very relaxing.

Posted by: nurse ratched at April 19, 2026 07:15 PM (A5RD0)

25 Good evening gub threaders and all the ships at sea!

Even the ones suffering from laundry fires.

Posted by: blaster - Fortis Fortuna Adiuvat at April 19, 2026 07:16 PM (NlEaG)

26 NoVaMoMe phone lines are open!

Posted by: bluebell at April 19, 2026 07:16 PM (afFes)

27 My range bag is a 20year old pink Patagonia backpack.

....
Posted by: nurse ratched at April 19, 2026 07:15 PM (A5RD0)

Really, Seattle? Could you be any more cliche?

Well, I guess maybe the Ruger is a little off the scale.

Posted by: blaster - Fortis Fortuna Adiuvat at April 19, 2026 07:18 PM (NlEaG)

28 Hello, Weasel!

Posted by: Ed L at April 19, 2026 07:19 PM (BCwQW)

29 Also a Rosary. Because never go to the range without the most powerful weapon in my arsenal.

Posted by: nurse ratched at April 19, 2026 07:15 PM

Heck, I should probably add a Rosary to my EDC.

Having God rain hellfire on a bad guy certainly has even greater stopping power than a caliber that begins with a "4"!

Posted by: Pillage Idiot at April 19, 2026 07:20 PM (HlyYF)

30 23 Yep. Eye and hearing protection. Forgot to mention that! Thx

Posted by: Weasel at April 19, 2026 07:15 PM

For the record I have 3 pair off eye protection (different shades), a pair of over the ear hearing protection, electronic ear buds and some plain old foam inserts.
Yeah, I over do things.

Posted by: Scuba_Dude at April 19, 2026 07:20 PM (QrtBZ)

31 Bluey Diaper Bag works too,

Posted by: Eromero at April 19, 2026 07:20 PM (LHPAg)

32 24 Also a Rosary. Because never go to the range without the most powerful weapon in my arsenal.
Posted by: nurse ratched at April 19, 2026 07:15 PM

Maybe some Holy Water in a water pistol? Just saying, never know when you have to fend off the vampires.

Posted by: Scuba_Dude at April 19, 2026 07:22 PM (QrtBZ)

33 Range bag is compact, similar to the one featured here but a bit smaller, very well designed and durable (picked up at a gun show nearly 20 years ago). Will have to check the brand.

Small tool bag w/ screwdriver, small pliers. CLP, brass squib rod, multi-tool, scissors, felt pen. Small range notebook & pen. Small ziplock with sunscreen, moisturizer, bandaids, butterfly bandages.

Finally put together a stop-bleed kit with tourniquet, chest seals, hemostatic bandage, gauze pads, Israeli bandage, tape and medic’s scissors. It’s small and can fit in range bag depending on other contents.

Bag has 2 compartments for handguns and sleeves for 8 mags for each.

Posted by: rhomboid at April 19, 2026 07:22 PM (2jLYo)

34 First Aid kit. Wheeler screwdriver kit with a ton of bits including hex and torx. Regular ear pro. Uplula. Markers (for targets). 2032 and 1632 batteries. Emergency package of foamy ear plugs. Range mag for EDC. A little bottle of Remington lube in a plastic bag.

Posted by: blaster - Fortis Fortuna Adiuvat at April 19, 2026 07:24 PM (NlEaG)

35 Weasel, for those w/ suppressors for their pistols, what about an oven mitt or some other heat protection for your hands when removing (or retightening) warm suppressors? Otherwise, you might have to wait for quite a while to let a warm suppressor cool down enough to not burn your hands and fingers.

Posted by: Ed L at April 19, 2026 07:25 PM (BCwQW)

36 Finally put together a stop-bleed kit with tourniquet, chest seals, hemostatic bandage, gauze pads, Israeli bandage, tape and medic’s scissors. It’s small and can fit in range bag depending on other contents.

Posted by: rhomboid at April 19, 2026 07:22 PM

If I ever suffer a GSW at the range, I certainly want rhomboid or Grateful to be on location!

Posted by: Pillage Idiot at April 19, 2026 07:26 PM (HlyYF)

37 Weasel, you need to look into unsubscribing from taxes. If you aren't satisfied with the service you receive, you should unsubscribe.

Posted by: Hour of the Wolf at April 19, 2026 07:27 PM (S/Y4j)

38 I am considering a Tokarev 12g BP. The most common complaint is the break in period.
Questions: 1)do all guns have a break in period and 2) how common is it for a gun to prefer a certain cartridge?

Posted by: Accomack at April 19, 2026 07:27 PM (AUlwe)

39 Posted by: Ed L at April 19, 2026 07:25 PM (BCwQW)
-----
A glove is a good idea in that circumstance. Or an old gas soaked rag.

Posted by: Weasel at April 19, 2026 07:27 PM (PVV5z)

40 I've used an old computer bag. It actually worked quite well if using just one weapon.

Posted by: Diogenes at April 19, 2026 07:28 PM (2WIwB)

41 I had a great range bag but it was just too heavy. Now use cart called a trolley. If you remove the bag, it also,works as a dolly. Folds. trolley Dolly. Under $70

Posted by: Sharon(willow's apprentice) at April 19, 2026 07:28 PM (kJmSS)

42 Today was a good range day for the DMV MGC. Lots of things!

First in the Club Room (we are swanky that way) waiting for lanes there were 4 gentlemen of military age speaking Arabic.

I tried to not stereotype. I wasn't keeping my eye on them - but I was keeping my eye on them. They finished shooting about the same time we did they were in the hallway to wash hands and I peeped their rifle cases and morale pitches. One guy had a Lebanese flag velcroed on. And a patch that said:

I (heart) guns and big titties.

I figure he's okay.

Posted by: blaster - Fortis Fortuna Adiuvat at April 19, 2026 07:29 PM (NlEaG)

43 35 Weasel, for those w/ suppressors for their pistols, what about an oven mitt or some other heat protection for your hands when removing (or retightening) warm suppressors? Otherwise, you might have to wait for quite a while to let a warm suppressor cool down enough to not burn your hands and fingers.

Posted by: Ed L at April 19, 2026 07:25 PM

I always have a pair of extra leather work gloves in the truck.

You just never know when you will have to handle something that is hot, sharp, splintery, etc.

Posted by: Pillage Idiot at April 19, 2026 07:29 PM (HlyYF)

44 I don't carry my trauma kit at the range, normally. I know the places I shoot have first aid equipment handy. I do take it to the outdoor range.

One thing I do keep in there is a package of Grime Boss wipes. I can clean my hands (and face) after the range session. You can get a box of ~20 small packages just the right size for a range bag at the company named for the big river.

Posted by: GWB at April 19, 2026 07:29 PM (UmLOA)

45 Oh yeah electronic muffs, and a set of the little soft plastic earplugs with baffles, several pairs of the soft foam earplugs for sharing (just handed out two pair this week on my duty day - real challenge is getting people to insert them correctly).

I am a hearing protection nazi as an RSO. Try to edumucate newbies about impulse damage to hearing, emphasizing that single incidents can have lifelong consequences.

Posted by: rhomboid at April 19, 2026 07:30 PM (2jLYo)

46 Ed L,

Thanks for the advice on the frozen safety on my Savage 110.

Lots of penetrating oil cycles, and then a straight punch with just a little fingertip pressure got it free.

Works like a champ now.

However, I will try to squeeze off a round with the safety engaged next time I am at the farm - just for a 100% sure evaluation of function.

Posted by: Pillage Idiot at April 19, 2026 07:33 PM (HlyYF)

47 I'll give you a hundred dollars if you have a hard boiled egg in your bag.

Posted by: Monty Hall at April 19, 2026 07:33 PM (Cqx++)

48 Concur on gloves. I keep a pair of flight gloves in my bag (nomex and leather).

There are companies who make suppressor blankets/wraps/mitts. I'll see if I have any in my email tonight.

Posted by: GWB at April 19, 2026 07:35 PM (UmLOA)

49 Oh right - work goves. Essential. As I tell people setting up their targets - most dangerous thing at our range are the staples in the cardboard target backers, only thing I have actually seen draw blood.

Posted by: rhomboid at April 19, 2026 07:35 PM (2jLYo)

50 Work *gloves*, obviously.

Posted by: rhomboid at April 19, 2026 07:36 PM (2jLYo)

51 Zip ties.

Posted by: Eromero at April 19, 2026 07:36 PM (LHPAg)

52 One piece of advice--never use your range bag for traveling, especially on airlines. Have a separate distinct range bag.

The nitrates from gunpowder can be flagged at airports doing swab tests plus you might have a loose round etc. in it that you missed.

Nylon bags/backpacks/etc are too cheap to risk dual use.

Posted by: whig at April 19, 2026 07:36 PM (E4rtv)

53 I have two pairs of shooting glasses, ear muffs and custom ear plugs, loader for 9mm,extra batteries for sights, cloth for eyewear and sights,eye patch, I bought this mag holder thst holds a dozen mags. It is kind of long and flat so keeps my targets from getting messed up in the trolley. And a bottle of water. And guns and ammo. I used to carry tools but I shoot with Blaster and Ed and Hrothgar.

Posted by: Sharon(willow's apprentice) at April 19, 2026 07:37 PM (kJmSS)

54 Spawn has State Competition next Friday, Saturday, & Sunday. She's shooting 9 disciplines. It's the most she's shot, includes 2 she's never shot before in a competition, 1911 and center fire iron. The range the team shoots at is shut down next week so no more practice before the competition.

Posted by: lin-duh in Texas at April 19, 2026 07:37 PM (VCgbV)

55 Have to give that first member of the dive/medical a medal for not yacking from the smell after opening the hatch.

Posted by: Itinerant Alley Butcher at April 19, 2026 07:37 PM (/lPRQ)

56 Earlier this week I went to pick up my Yankee Hill Machine Co R9 suppressor. I had done my Form 3 to Form 4 certification Friday. It was complete Monday and I was able to go pick it up.

While waiting to process - you still have to do a 4473 after all the other paperwork - I saw in the display case a Sig P226 XFive High Polish Reserve. It was mesmerizing. I could not take my eyes off of it.

Remember this was the shop that I felt like was kind of rude? There were 2 guys behind the counter this time, one the rude guy and one I presume to be the owner. Owner saw me looking and said its a P226. I asked is that an XFive? Rude guy says "Its a P226." Owner says yes its an XFive. Reserve.

I said I have 2 P226s one with West German rollmark and a new Legion. Owner says "you need another one." Take it out of the case - rude starts to catch on, now they are trying to sell it. SO - beautiful gun. The trigger was amazing (told me to dry fire it in the store!) Pics and videos do not do it justice.

If it were only not $3000....

He told me to take it out of the case. Try the trigger he says.

Posted by: blaster - Fortis Fortuna Adiuvat at April 19, 2026 07:38 PM (NlEaG)

57 Funnel.

You should probably have one.

Posted by: Martini Farmer at April 19, 2026 07:38 PM (AkEZC)

58 Posted by: lin-duh in Texas at April 19, 2026 07:37 PM (VCgbV)
---
Good luck to her!

Posted by: Weasel at April 19, 2026 07:39 PM (PVV5z)

59 OK, have to do it.

“One 45 caliber pistol, 2 boxes of ammo’nition, 100 dollars in gold, 100 dollars in rubles, one miniature combined russki phrase book and Bible, tranquilizer pills, pep pills, sleepin’ pills …..”

Posted by: rhomboid at April 19, 2026 07:39 PM (2jLYo)

60 If I ever suffer a GSW at the range, I certainly want rhomboid or Grateful to be on location!
Posted by: Pillage Idiot
**********
That's nice. I'm still waiting to hear an update about those shaky hands....

Posted by: The Grateful - Acta Non Verba at April 19, 2026 07:40 PM (IQ6Gq)

61 54 Posted by: lin-duh in Texas at April 19, 2026 07:37 PM

Best of luck to her. Will be pulling for her!!

Posted by: Scuba_Dude at April 19, 2026 07:40 PM (QrtBZ)

62 52 One piece of advice--never use your range bag for traveling, especially on airlines. Have a separate distinct range bag.

The nitrates from gunpowder can be flagged at airports doing swab tests plus you might have a loose round etc. in it that you missed.

Nylon bags/backpacks/etc are too cheap to risk dual use.

Posted by: whig at April 19, 2026 07:36 PM

My kids would occasionally borrow my good backpack without authorization. When I couldn't find it before flying, I would dump my range backpack into a tub, and then fly with that backpack.

I suspect I was lucky that it never got swabbed!

Posted by: Pillage Idiot at April 19, 2026 07:40 PM (HlyYF)

63 Oh and a pen and little notepad. And a Boy Scout multi tool.

Digging deep, several spent and live rounds and a travel pack of Kleenex.

Posted by: nurse ratched at April 19, 2026 07:40 PM (A5RD0)

64 Currently sitting in my "possible purchase" wishlist is the MAC 3-gun 21" Benelli knockoff, the Woox Superleggera Tikka stock, a CZ Shadow 2 Carry, and a thermal optic to be named later.

Posted by: irright at April 19, 2026 07:42 PM (unUgu)

65 Our range bag is the backpack we use for racing events. Targets, markers, (range has staplers), ammo, eye and ear protection, first aid items (yes, the range has them, but that takes precious time in an emergency), pad. Gubs are in their own case.

Posted by: The Grateful - Acta Non Verba at April 19, 2026 07:42 PM (IQ6Gq)

66 The range the team shoots at is shut down next week so no more practice before the competition.

Posted by: lin-duh in Texas at April 19, 2026 07:37 PM

At her level, I would hate for her skills to get rusty!

Can you go to a different range? Or even ask Rancher Bob for permission? (I can't remember how far away you are from him.)

Posted by: Pillage Idiot at April 19, 2026 07:43 PM (HlyYF)

67 Kinda surprised I never had luggage check issues the years I was traveling in/out of a place with lots of residue just about everywhere. As whig says don’t air travel with range bags if possible.

Posted by: rhomboid at April 19, 2026 07:44 PM (2jLYo)

68 Weasel, for those w/ suppressors for their pistols, what about an oven mitt or some other heat protection for your hands when removing (or retightening) warm suppressors? Otherwise, you might have to wait for quite a while to let a warm suppressor cool down enough to not burn your hands and fingers.
Posted by: Ed L
----
I have a mitt from the Silencer Shop they were giving away at a table set up at a show. I don't own a suppressor...yet.

Posted by: lin-duh in Texas at April 19, 2026 07:44 PM (VCgbV)

69 My range bag is an old school basic tool box with the hinged lid on top, lift out tray with pretty much everything Weasel mentioned (plus three mag loaders and batteries) and the bottom carries ammo of the day. Easily carry a box of ammo (that's a case for city folks). The (pre-loaded) mags and handguns go into the other bag. Another bag carries eyes and ears which I put before leaving the car.

Posted by: Itinerant Alley Butcher at April 19, 2026 07:45 PM (/lPRQ)

70 They loaded the 'sicles on a truck, says Broderick!

Posted by: GWB at April 19, 2026 07:45 PM (UmLOA)

71 Range report
So, last week I spent a lot of time online looking at this new Walther pro Acro. Ed reminded me that I didn't like the Walther grip but it was a long time ago and this one looked great. Well, it turned out that the range had a bunch of new Walthers for sale and I got to handle them and you know what, Ed was right. I don't like the grips. I did not like the Acro sight in comparison to Hollosun.
Bullet dodged.

Posted by: Sharon(willow's apprentice) at April 19, 2026 07:45 PM (kJmSS)

72 It is strange that one of the first things I am planning on buying when I retire is a suppressor.

Not a house, or new funiture or TV, a suppressor. :-)

Posted by: Scuba_Dude at April 19, 2026 07:45 PM (QrtBZ)

73 Zip ties.
Posted by: Eromero
*********
Excellent suggestion. I've been meaning to add those, and they just never make it. Adding them now. Thank you.

Posted by: The Grateful - Acta Non Verba at April 19, 2026 07:47 PM (IQ6Gq)

74 My kids would occasionally borrow my good backpack without authorization. When I couldn't find it before flying, I would dump my range backpack into a tub, and then fly with that backpack.

I suspect I was lucky that it never got swabbed!
Posted by: Pillage Idiot

Depending, it can also be an issue if your shoes or clothes that you travel on board with have recently taken a trip to the gun range.

Floors of gun ranges are loaded with nitrate remnants and shooting leaves gsr (gun shot residue) all over clothes, jackets, etc that have not been laundered. They used to also use dogs (dunno about now) to sniff out explosives and they can signal the presence of nitrates as well.

Posted by: whig at April 19, 2026 07:47 PM (E4rtv)

75 Well that was weird - not sure how that line got out of place.

Anyway, the can. The YHM R9 is fairly small and light. It is Stainless Steel not an exotic titanium or anything but its not heavy. It is inexpensive - I paid $509 plus tax - but that is a function of how it is accessorized - if comes with 5x29 thread and no adapters. Perfect for a PCC. Piston and other adapters are a little more pricy than other models, so depends on your use case whether price works out for you.

I put it on an Extar EP-9. With subsonic 147 grain rounds it was really quiet - we were at the range with ear pro on so can't say how quiet, but shooting next to a 9mm pistol you could really hear the difference.

EP9 is blowback and it is gassy with the can. sra blaster was gassed out in 3 rounds. Made her eyes tear up. I shot a mag of 10 rounds and it made me cough afterward. So there is that. also, in use case consideration.

We put the can on Ed L's MP5K. Nicer experience from the roller delay. And quiet like a pellet gun. Yes, still with ear pro. But all you heard was pfff.

Posted by: blaster - Fortis Fortuna Adiuvat at April 19, 2026 07:48 PM (NlEaG)

76 Late, but well-fed.

Posted by: RI Red at April 19, 2026 07:48 PM (iB8Z+)

77 Just noticed that the dice team had worked on the water before - the hatch key has a nice bright yellow float attached. Not sure if they picked that up at Bass Pro but it sucks dropping your key(s) in the water. I know some boaters that have the float on their truck keys because loosing those keys also sucks when out fishing.
Another thing, I didn't notice or look for, is if everything else is dummy corded.

Posted by: Itinerant Alley Butcher at April 19, 2026 07:48 PM (/lPRQ)

78 I used to carry tools but I shoot with Blaster and Ed and Hrothgar.
Posted by: Sharon(willow's apprentice) at April 19, 2026 07:37 PM (kJmSS)

I don't carry any tools but a Leatherman. Anything that requires tools is most likely to end my range day with that weapon.

Posted by: GWB at April 19, 2026 07:49 PM (UmLOA)

79 Not a house, or new funiture or TV, a suppressor. :-)

Posted by: Scuba_Dude at April 19, 2026 07:45 PM

But of course.

Everyone wants to retire to a quieter life!

Posted by: Pillage Idiot at April 19, 2026 07:50 PM (HlyYF)

80 Awhile back I had a revelation. Pistol range bags are relatively inexpensive and I can buy one for each of the magazine systems I own. Now they are neatly lined up in a row, with big hanger tags on them that say things like "1911 45" and "P365." I have a separate bag for things like tools, band aids, spare eye and ear protection, etc.
Posted by: Idaho Spudboy

That would be nice.
But first need to get a walk-in gun room...

... as soon as one of these kids moves out.

Posted by: Itinerant Alley Butcher at April 19, 2026 07:51 PM (/lPRQ)

81 I never take my range bag when I fly. I just take the essentials (eye and hearing), reloader, Kestrel and range finder. And I throw those in a backpack loaded into my checked luggage.

Magazines and ammo will be in the Pelican case with the firearms.

Of course when I drive I am taking the range bag.

Posted by: Scuba_Dude at April 19, 2026 07:51 PM (QrtBZ)

82 76 Late, but well-fed.

Posted by: RI Red at April 19, 2026 07:48 PM

That is why The Food Thread comes before The Gun Thread!

Posted by: Pillage Idiot at April 19, 2026 07:52 PM (HlyYF)

83 And ammo report: I went to retail stores looking for 147 grain 9mm. Nunzo. One shop said that and 300 blackout are all sold out - I guess lots of people are getting suppressors now.

I went to Cabelas and the 9mm shelf had LOTS of empty spots. I guess people figure Spanberger means what she says.

Posted by: blaster - Fortis Fortuna Adiuvat at April 19, 2026 07:52 PM (NlEaG)

84 Spawn has State Competition next Friday, Saturday, & Sunday. She's shooting 9 disciplines. It's the most she's shot, includes 2 she's never shot before in a competition, 1911 and center fire iron. The range the team shoots at is shut down next week so no more practice before the competition.
Posted by: lin-duh in Texas at April 19, 2026 07:37 PM (VCgbV)

Good luck to the Spawn next weekend!

Posted by: Ed L at April 19, 2026 07:53 PM (BCwQW)

85 79 Everyone wants to retire to a quieter life!

Posted by: Pillage Idiot at April 19, 2026 07:50 PM

LOL LOL LOL good one!!!

Posted by: Scuba_Dude at April 19, 2026 07:53 PM (QrtBZ)

86 73 Zip ties.
Posted by: Eromero
*********
Excellent suggestion. I've been meaning to add those, and they just never make it. Adding them now. Thank you.
Posted by: The Grateful - Acta Non Verba at April 19, 2026 07:47 PM (IQ6Gq)
I was actually going with cuffs, but some folk are anxious-like.

Posted by: Eromero at April 19, 2026 07:54 PM (LHPAg)

87 What do you mean, “a” range bag?
I have a range trunk.

Posted by: RI Red at April 19, 2026 07:54 PM (iB8Z+)

88 Late, but well-fed.
Posted by: RI Red at April 19, 2026 07:48 PM

We had you listed as "missing, presumed fed."

Posted by: RedMindBlueState at April 19, 2026 07:55 PM (Wnv9h)

89 It is strange that one of the first things I am planning on buying when I retire is a suppressor.

Not a house, or new funiture or TV, a suppressor. :-)

Posted by: Scuba_Dude at April 19, 2026 07:45 PM

That will be one of my first purchases in NH.

Posted by: RedMindBlueState at April 19, 2026 07:57 PM (Wnv9h)

90 I shot my Cz-82 that I picked up for $200 on Fri. Good little gun. Makarov is just fun to say. Makarov.
Too bad how much it costs.

Posted by: sniffybigtoe at April 19, 2026 07:57 PM (P4bJX)

91 We put the can on Ed L's MP5K. Nicer experience from the roller delay. And quiet like a pellet gun. Yes, still with ear pro. But all you heard was pfff.

Posted by: blaster - Fortis Fortuna Adiuvat at April 19, 2026 07:48 PM (NlEaG)

And that's why I'll argue that when it comes to suppressed PCC/SMGs, the MP5 platform is one of, if not the best, platforms for a suppressor.

Posted by: Ed L at April 19, 2026 07:58 PM (BCwQW)

92 I went to Cabelas and the 9mm shelf had LOTS of empty spots. I guess people figure Spanberger means what she says.
Posted by: blaster - Fortis Fortuna Adiuvat
************
She does. She means to use VA as the poster child CA could never be. I am so tired of living in poster child states. Thank goodness we break ground within 6 weeks for Fortress Rex in the free state of TN. Will be domiciled there within 10 months. But of course we will return for the NoVA MoMes.....

Posted by: The Grateful - Acta Non Verba at April 19, 2026 07:58 PM (IQ6Gq)

93 Supressors are great. Cleaning suippressors is awful.

Posted by: sniffybigtoe at April 19, 2026 07:58 PM (P4bJX)

94 Posted by: Ed L at April 19, 2026 07:25 PM (BCwQW)
-----
A glove is a good idea in that circumstance. Or an old gas soaked rag.
Posted by: Weasel at April 19, 2026 07:27 PM

Damn, Ed...what did you do to piss off Weasel san?

Posted by: RedMindBlueState at April 19, 2026 07:59 PM (Wnv9h)

95 After discarding the Walther idea and with how much I liked the little Kimber that Sra Blaster carries, she suggested I test my G48 by shooting each gun at the same target and see which one was more accurate. Hit the target just fine with both. Now thinking I should get a holster for the Glock and see if it is a comfortable carry. The G43x which is the cc model has a slightly shorter barrel but that is the only difference.

Posted by: Sharon(willow's apprentice) at April 19, 2026 07:59 PM (kJmSS)

96 they can signal the presence of nitrates as well.
Posted by: whig at April 19, 2026 07:47 PM (E4rtv)

I've mentioned before that I think traveling with firearms can mitigate that. They don't swab your checked bag the normal way (scanner, now, I think) because it's got guns and ammo in it. And they might tag your boarding pass, as well (for the carry-on check).

Posted by: GWB at April 19, 2026 07:59 PM (UmLOA)

97 What do you mean, “a” range bag?
I have a range trunk.
Posted by: RI Red
*********
I read that as a range truck!

Posted by: The Grateful - Acta Non Verba at April 19, 2026 07:59 PM (IQ6Gq)

98 89 That will be one of my first purchases in NH.

Posted by: RedMindBlueState at April 19, 2026 07:57 PM

Any idea of the time frame for that? And maybe you should think of joining RI Red's range too. Just sayin ;-)

Posted by: Scuba_Dude at April 19, 2026 08:01 PM (QrtBZ)

99 88 Late, but well-fed.
Posted by: RI Red at April 19, 2026 07:48 PM

We had you listed as "missing, presumed fed."
Posted by: RedMindBlueState at April 19, 2026 07:55 PM (Wnv9h)

Yup. Mrs. Red and DILIT went down to communist CT looking at houses. I spent volunteer work party at the range yesterday digging up ricochet and lawn mower blade hazards.
Today I made a split pea, ham and carrot soup to go with their steak tip, asparagus and steamed yellow potatoes.
The marital capital account, plus my belly, is full.

Posted by: RI Red at April 19, 2026 08:02 PM (iB8Z+)

100 And here is the latest on Virginia gun laws. In short: it gets worse.

Everyone expected Spanberger to sign the 2 big bad bills - the assault firearms ban (if you watch a lot of video commentators, they say "assault weapons" but the bill uses the term assault firearms.) and the assault firearms carry bill.

Virginia allows the governor to return bills with amendments and she did. And the amendments added a detachable magazine capacity of over 15 rounds a feature that made an assault firearm.

This really muddies things. Because what does that mean capacity? if you have a 10 round mag in the pistol is it an assault firearm if it COULD have a 17 rounder? It makes practically every centerfire semi-auto an assault firearm. M14's which are usually okay - an assault firearm. Or is it only if it has a >15 round mag? Hard to say. Spanberger also expanded the defined areas "open to the public" that you cannot carry an assault firearm. So it is basically everywhere - which is what open to the public meant, but now it is more explict. Sigh.

continued

Posted by: blaster - Fortis Fortuna Adiuvat at April 19, 2026 08:02 PM (NlEaG)

101 Now thinking I should get a holster for the Glock and see if it is a comfortable carry. The G43x which is the cc model has a slightly shorter barrel but that is the only difference.
Posted by: Sharon(willow's apprentice) at April 19, 2026 07:59 PM (kJmSS)
You forget you have it until you need it. It carries very well.

Posted by: Eromero at April 19, 2026 08:02 PM (LHPAg)

102 It is strange that one of the first things I am planning on buying when I retire is a suppressor.

Not a house, or new funiture or TV, a suppressor. :-)

Posted by: Scuba_Dude at April 19, 2026 07:45 PM (QrtBZ)

Get a reproduction DeLisle carbine and you get a new (rebuilt) rifle and integral suppressor all in one.

Posted by: Ed L at April 19, 2026 08:03 PM (BCwQW)

103 Still debateing picking up an SP5L. They are heavily disounted and it seems pointless to have 16" barrel for 9mm. But, I think I can have some fun with it. Put a scope on it and be a 9mm sniper!

Posted by: sniffybigtoe at April 19, 2026 08:03 PM (P4bJX)

104 91 We put the can on Ed L's MP5K. Nicer experience from the roller delay. And quiet like a pellet gun. Yes, still with ear pro. But all you heard was pfff.

that was a dream to shoot. Quiet, no kick. Part of an outstanding range day.

Posted by: Sharon(willow's apprentice) at April 19, 2026 08:03 PM (kJmSS)

105 The 43X iod getting 15rd metal mags soon.

Posted by: sniffybigtoe at April 19, 2026 08:04 PM (P4bJX)

106 What do you mean, “a” range bag?
I have a range trunk.
Posted by: RI Red
*********
I read that as a range truck!
Posted by: The Grateful - Acta Non Verba at April 19, 2026 07:59 PM (IQ6Gq)

I’m embarrassed. Some of my range buddies have range trucks.

Posted by: RI Red at April 19, 2026 08:04 PM (iB8Z+)

107 99 Today I made a split pea, ham and carrot soup to go with their steak tip, asparagus and steamed yellow potatoes.
The marital capital account, plus my belly, is full.

Posted by: RI Red at April 19, 2026 08:02 PM

That sounds yummy! Now time to relax and comment on the thread.

Posted by: Scuba_Dude at April 19, 2026 08:06 PM (QrtBZ)

108 ear protection as well as eye protection.

Posted by: AZ deplorable moron at April 19, 2026 08:07 PM (YBtcQ)

109 Still debateing picking up an SP5L. They are heavily disounted and it seems pointless to have 16" barrel for 9mm. But, I think I can have some fun with it. Put a scope on it and be a 9mm sniper!
Posted by: sniffybigtoe at April 19, 2026 08:03 PM (P4bJX)

HK SP5s are rated to fire +p and +p+ 9mm. The longer barrel will allow those rounds to build up to their theoretical max velocity. In theory, this increases range

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

110 Continued - VA law:

I have a hopeful theory Spanberger is doing some Dem failure theater - making the bill tougher but knowing it probably won't pass the legislature, and it dies. See, I tried?

Alternatively - she used this to kick the can down the road - if she had signed it - or not vetoed it and allowed it to become law, that would have occurred April 16, and on the 21st we have a vote (well, the last day of 45 day voting season) on redistricting/gerrymandering whatever. If the gun laws haven't become law, then maybe people are less motivated to go vote against it. This unfortunately seems valid. The legislature can essentially ignore the amendments and send back the original bill which Spanberger no doubt signs. Or they vote to include them, and send it back, and Spanberger signs.

This is not good. Also, Grateful - when typing VA it is really easy to type CA instead. I guess not all that much difference.

This hastens our decampment to Florida.

Posted by: blaster - Fortis Fortuna Adiuvat at April 19, 2026 08:08 PM (NlEaG)

111 102 Get a reproduction DeLisle carbine and you get a new (rebuilt) rifle and integral suppressor all in one.

Posted by: Ed L at April 19, 2026 08:03 PM

Strictly looking for just my Tikka. Of course I am also looking to put a suppressor on my 1911. Just need to get a threaded barrel for that. And of course move out of NY where such things are illegal. The suppressors that is, not the barrel. ;-)

Posted by: Scuba_Dude at April 19, 2026 08:09 PM (QrtBZ)

112 Posted by: Scuba_Dude at April 19, 2026 07:08 PM (QrtBZ)
----
Yep. Eye and hearing protection. Forgot to mention that! Thx
Posted by: Weasel

Just a min late!

Posted by: AZ deplorable moron at April 19, 2026 08:09 PM (YBtcQ)

113 Red, you are not leaving your castle for CT, are you?

Posted by: The Grateful - Acta Non Verba at April 19, 2026 08:10 PM (IQ6Gq)

114 RedMindBlueState at April 19, 2026 07:57 PM

Any idea of the time frame for that? And maybe you should think of joining RI Red's range too. Just sayin ;-)
Posted by: Scuba_Dude at April 19, 2026 08:01 PM (QrtBZ)

We have many out of state members. NH is only about 2 hrs south to north.

Posted by: RI Red at April 19, 2026 08:10 PM (iB8Z+)

115 ear protection as well as eye protection.
Posted by: AZ deplorable moron at April 19, 2026 08:07 PM (YBtcQ)
----
Yep. Thanks. Forgot to list those! Also PI mentioned up there somewhere that he has a few pin punches. Same.

Posted by: Weasel at April 19, 2026 08:10 PM (MLVQO)

116 Eromero, was thinking about you today. I have decided I am a Glock girl. No matter how long it has been between range dates, I pick up anyone of my Glocks and hit the target. I am glad I spent the extra to get the holosun because that green dot comes right up and I acquire the target. But I shoot the old G48 without a sight just as well. The white dot sight is perfect.

Posted by: Sharon(willow's apprentice) at April 19, 2026 08:11 PM (kJmSS)

117 I'm glad we're established in Texas, the sensible part of Texas.

Posted by: Eromero at April 19, 2026 08:11 PM (LHPAg)

118 The YHM R9 is also rated for .308 as long as the barrel is > 16 inches. Have a couple of those. Will have to try it out.

Posted by: blaster - Fortis Fortuna Adiuvat at April 19, 2026 08:11 PM (NlEaG)

119 106 I’m embarrassed. Some of my range buddies have range trucks.

Posted by: RI Red at April 19, 2026 08:04 PM

Don't be. Originally when the plan was to move to Texas after retirement, I was looking at getting a nice Ford F150 and having all sorts of goodies riding in the back.
Now the plan is Florida and just a nicer SUV than what I have.

Posted by: Scuba_Dude at April 19, 2026 08:12 PM (QrtBZ)

120 In my Range bag:

Alcohol wipes, to clean carbon off of the optic

Extra foam ear plugs

Screwdrivers and Torx drivers to match all of my optics and iron sights, for adjustments

Squib rod and little hammer. I've only needed this once, and it was for someone else at the range, but I don't want to be without it if I need it.

Little plastic tray, for dumping a box of ammo into for quicker reloading of mags

Red Sharpie, for marking targets -- which gun, which ammo, distance, so I can go home and catalog my sins

Brass bag with mesh bottom to let the dirt and dust out.

Posted by: Splunge at April 19, 2026 08:12 PM (InqhU)

121 This hastens our decampment to Florida.
Posted by: blaster - Fortis Fortuna Adiuvat
************
I hear you loud and clear.......

Posted by: The Grateful - Acta Non Verba at April 19, 2026 08:12 PM (IQ6Gq)

122 114 We have many out of state members. NH is only about 2 hrs south to north.

Posted by: RI Red at April 19, 2026 08:10 PM

Red, I am toying with becoming a member. The price is very reasonable. Just have to set aside a weekend for the orientation if I decide to go through. :-)

Posted by: Scuba_Dude at April 19, 2026 08:14 PM (QrtBZ)

123 115 Also PI mentioned up there somewhere that he has a few pin punches. Same.

Posted by: Weasel at April 19, 2026 08:10 PM

*raises hand sheepishly*

Uhh, what would they be used for?

Posted by: Scuba_Dude at April 19, 2026 08:15 PM (QrtBZ)

124 116 Eromero, was thinking about you today. I have decided I am a Glock girl. No matter how long it has been between range dates, I pick up anyone of my Glocks and hit the target. I am glad I spent the extra to get the holosun because that green dot comes right up and I acquire the target. But I shoot the old G48 without a sight just as well. The white dot sight is perfect.
Posted by: Sharon(willow's apprentice) at April 19, 2026 08:11 PM (kJmSS)
I do put real (not Glock) sights on all my Glocks. Only pistol with a red dot is a FNX 45 Tactical but that thing is not a carry piece by any means.

Posted by: Eromero at April 19, 2026 08:15 PM (LHPAg)

125 Weasel, I am grateful for all of those exhortations to buy ammo. I did, and now I am contentedly riding out the shortages.

Posted by: Splunge at April 19, 2026 08:16 PM (InqhU)

126 Red, you are not leaving your castle for CT, are you?
Posted by: The Grateful - Acta Non Verba at April 19, 2026 08:10 PM (IQ6Gq)

No f’ing way. DILIT works remotely right now but is being “encouraged” to come back to CT as she climbs the ladder. Jr. is 30 on, 30 off to Cali as a Merchant Marine officer, but is likely to come back east as their family planning progresses.
I’ve already told him about all the things in his safe he can’t take.
F’ing communist state.

Posted by: RI Red at April 19, 2026 08:16 PM (iB8Z+)

127 Can only have 10 rds in MD. Glock is now selling the G48 and the G43x with 15 rd mags standard. I was wondering if these new mags will fit the older models? I can own 15 rd mags, I just can't buy them in MD. Nutty but true.

Posted by: Sharon(willow's apprentice) at April 19, 2026 08:16 PM (kJmSS)

128 120 Posted by: Splunge at April 19, 2026 08:12 PM

I like the idea of alcohol wipes for the optics. Will make a note to get some of those.

Posted by: Scuba_Dude at April 19, 2026 08:17 PM (QrtBZ)

129 Strictly looking for just my Tikka. Of course I am also looking to put a suppressor on my 1911. Just need to get a threaded barrel for that. And of course move out of NY where such things are illegal. The suppressors that is, not the barrel. ;-)
Posted by: Scuba_Dude at April 19, 2026 08:09 PM (QrtBZ)

Don't forget to include a booster/piston with your purchase. All pistols using the classic Browning tilt barrel design will need one (Glock, Sig, H&K, more) because the barrel moves during the recoil action of the slide.

Posted by: Ed L at April 19, 2026 08:17 PM (BCwQW)

130 No range day here, but I did successfully complete the task of mounting a Gamo 3-8X40 air rifle scope onto my Cooey Model 750 .22 single-shot boltie. Set up a paper target at about 18 yards, and it took my 9 rounds to get the point of aim coincident with the point of impact.

The magpies agree, because they got to eat the gopher that found out yesterday.

Posted by: Alberta Oil Peon at April 19, 2026 08:17 PM (utfVc)

131 Any idea of the time frame for that? And maybe you should think of joining RI Red's range too. Just sayin ;-)
Posted by: Scuba_Dude at April 19, 2026 08:01 PM

Sadly, no. The inventory of available houses is low. But I will join RI Red's club when I get up there.

Posted by: RedMindBlueState at April 19, 2026 08:18 PM (Wnv9h)

132 Don't forget to include a booster/piston with your purchase. All pistols using the classic Browning tilt barrel design will need one (Glock, Sig, H&K, more) because the barrel moves during the recoil action of the slide.
Posted by: Ed L at April 19, 2026 08:17 PM

Such a gun without a Nielsen device would be...naked.

Posted by: RedMindBlueState at April 19, 2026 08:19 PM (Wnv9h)

133 I have range bags, gun bags, gun wagon, pop up tents, chairs, and pretty much anything else I can fit in the back of the suburban.

Posted by: lin-duh in Texas at April 19, 2026 08:20 PM (VCgbV)

134 127 Can only have 10 rds in MD. Glock is now selling the G48 and the G43x with 15 rd mags standard. I was wondering if these new mags will fit the older models? I can own 15 rd mags, I just can't buy them in MD. Nutty but true.

Posted by: Sharon(willow's apprentice) at April 19, 2026 08:16 PM

Same in NY. And with NYC my rifle can only hold 5 rounds.
My Tikka came with two 10 round magazines. The gun shop had to send them out to get pinned.
And those magazines cost $100 a piece!!!!!

F'ng NYC

Posted by: Scuba_Dude at April 19, 2026 08:21 PM (QrtBZ)

135 Such a gun without a Nielsen device would be...naked.
Posted by: RedMindBlueState at April 19, 2026 08:19 PM (Wnv9h)

I see what you did there.

Posted by: blaster - Fortis Fortuna Adiuvat at April 19, 2026 08:21 PM (NlEaG)

136 Depending on the outcome of the VA laws, stuff will have to come off the bottom of the creek here and move to the Free State of Florida. Crossing fingers for Dem failure theater.

Otherwise going to need a bunch of cosmolene bags....

Posted by: blaster - Fortis Fortuna Adiuvat at April 19, 2026 08:23 PM (NlEaG)

137 This hastens our decampment to Florida.
Posted by: blaster - Fortis Fortuna Adiuvat at April 19, 2026 08:08 PM (NlEaG)

I'm looking to do the Bravo Oscar thing when I decide to pull the plug on work. Need to start looking at potential landing sites.

Posted by: Ed L at April 19, 2026 08:23 PM (BCwQW)

138 129 Don't forget to include a booster/piston with your purchase. All pistols using the classic Browning tilt barrel design will need one (Glock, Sig, H&K, more) because the barrel moves during the recoil action of the slide.

Posted by: Ed L at April 19, 2026 08:17 PM

I have the Sig Sauer 1911 X and from what I can see the barrel does not tilt up as my P226 does. So that might be a plus.

Posted by: Scuba_Dude at April 19, 2026 08:24 PM (QrtBZ)

139 Weasel, was your unmention of eye and ear pro a deliberate test of the GT commentariat?

It was, wasn't it?

Posted by: Duncanthrax at April 19, 2026 08:25 PM (0sNs1)

140 Thingie that goes up > barrel that goes up.

Posted by: Duncanthrax at April 19, 2026 08:25 PM (0sNs1)

141 I'm looking to do the Bravo Oscar thing when I decide to pull the plug on work. Need to start looking at potential landing sites.
Posted by: Ed L at April 19, 2026 08:23 PM (BCwQW)

Florida RE prices are coming down from their peaks. If you don't care for the beach you can find a lot of reasonably priced homes in the central part of the state.

The Panhandle is cheaper than the Peninsula, too.

Posted by: blaster - Fortis Fortuna Adiuvat at April 19, 2026 08:26 PM (NlEaG)

142 VA governor has already been warned by the Feds that if the gun laws pass, the Feds will challenge in court. In that case, a Court ordered TRO until decision is everyone's best friend.

Posted by: The Grateful - Acta Non Verba at April 19, 2026 08:27 PM (IQ6Gq)

143 Posted by: Scuba_Dude at April 19, 2026 08:15 PM (QrtBZ)
----
In the unlikely event I need to drift out a pin. Or as a stabbing tool.

Posted by: Weasel at April 19, 2026 08:28 PM (KfiAs)

144 If you hate humidity, don't mind intense dry heat, and love sunshine, Arizona is one of the best states there is for shooting enthusiasts.

Posted by: Splunge at April 19, 2026 08:28 PM (InqhU)

145 141 The Panhandle is cheaper than the Peninsula, too.

Posted by: blaster - Fortis Fortuna Adiuvat at April 19, 2026 08:26 PM

I was born in the Panhandle. Who knows, maybe that might be where I end up. :-)

Posted by: Scuba_Dude at April 19, 2026 08:29 PM (QrtBZ)

146 USS Spruance has used its 5 inch gun to disable an Iranian cargo ship trying to run our blockade. Marines have boarded the ship and are in control.

Posted by: Archer at April 19, 2026 08:29 PM (wvc0i)

147 Posted by: Splunge at April 19, 2026 08:16 PM (InqhU)
----
*fistbump*

Posted by: Weasel at April 19, 2026 08:29 PM (KfiAs)

148 I use a Harbor Freight tool bag as a range bag. Very well made, double and triple stitched, heavy duty zipper, and lots of pockets inside and out. I paid well under $20 for it. I have a smaller one,the size of the old GI tool bags, for carrying ammo.

Posted by: bill in arkansas, not gonna comply with nuttin, waiting for the 0300 knock on the door at April 19, 2026 08:30 PM (gm9Sb)

149 Go Navy

Posted by: Archer at April 19, 2026 08:30 PM (wvc0i)

150 Posted by: Duncanthrax at April 19, 2026 08:25 PM (0sNs1)
----
Yeah! That's it!

Posted by: Weasel at April 19, 2026 08:30 PM (KfiAs)

151 143 In the unlikely event I need to drift out a pin. Or as a stabbing tool.

Posted by: Weasel at April 19, 2026 08:28 PM

Gotcha!!

Posted by: Scuba_Dude at April 19, 2026 08:30 PM (QrtBZ)

152 While I understand those of y’all who have decided to relocate due to political reasons……

I’m not going to be bullied out of my home. I love it here. The people and the politics are stupid. But I ove where I live and refuse to be scared away.

Nope. I’m here. Until my boys want my help with grandbabies. Then, and only then, will I leave.

Posted by: nurse ratched at April 19, 2026 08:31 PM (A5RD0)

153 142 VA governor has already been warned by the Feds that if the gun laws pass, the Feds will challenge in court. In that case, a Court ordered TRO until decision is everyone's best friend.
Posted by: The Grateful - Acta Non Verba at April 19, 2026 08:27 PM (IQ6Gq)

Richmond is Eastern District of Virginia - but it has its own courthouse not Alexandria, so maybe, just maybe there is some chance of reasonableness.

Posted by: blaster - Fortis Fortuna Adiuvat at April 19, 2026 08:32 PM (NlEaG)

154 It is time for me to call it a night.

Thank you Weasel. It is always nice to end Sunday chatting with the good folk on this thread.

Everyone have a good night and a great weekend!!

Posted by: Scuba_Dude at April 19, 2026 08:32 PM (QrtBZ)

155 Have to give that first member of the dive/medical a medal for not yacking from the smell after opening the hatch.
Posted by: Itinerant Alley Butcher at April 19, 2026 07:37 PM

Try a penguin rookery sometime.

Posted by: zombie Ernest Shackleton at April 19, 2026 08:33 PM (0sNs1)

156 Peace out, Scoob.

Posted by: RedMindBlueState at April 19, 2026 08:33 PM (Wnv9h)

157 This won't matter to most folks here but there is a serious shortage of good gun flints. For decades I've used black English flints, mostly from Track of the Wolf, and they were excellent. Haven't had them in stock for a long time. Same for the other usual sources. Finally found some French amber flints at Heritage Products. They look good and the one I tried sparked well. I should order some more soon. I can find no specific reason why there is a dearth of English or any flints at the moment.

I have a decent stash of flints, enough for several years of shooting. But this is why I keep my eyes open for deals for expendable supplies like flints, percussion caps and primers, even 22lr ammo. I've seen enough times when these weren't available for a time so I've learned to maintain a sufficient supply when possible.

Just FYI.

Posted by: JTB at April 19, 2026 08:34 PM (yTvNw)

158 I do need a better range bag.

Posted by: Cow Demon at April 19, 2026 08:34 PM (T6aVk)

159 I’m not going to be bullied out of my home. I love it here. The people and the politics are stupid. But I ove where I live and refuse to be scared away.

I get it. Virginia is where I have lived the longest but have never felt it was "home" - I was born in SC.

Florida is where we are going to retire. It's been on plan for the past 6 years. This just moves it up.

Posted by: blaster - Fortis Fortuna Adiuvat at April 19, 2026 08:35 PM (NlEaG)

160 I always carry hot sauce in my bag.

Posted by: Hillary at April 19, 2026 08:36 PM (Q+gd/)

161 Just FYI.
Posted by: JTB at April 19, 2026 08:34 PM (yTvNw)

Noted.

Weasel - perhaps you need to modify the tagline. Buy guns, ammo, and flints. Seriously.

Posted by: blaster - Fortis Fortuna Adiuvat at April 19, 2026 08:36 PM (NlEaG)

162 JTB. Please forgive my ignorance as I don't use black powder weapons, but can't one find and use flints from natural outcrops?

Posted by: Archer at April 19, 2026 08:37 PM (wvc0i)

163 Good evening to everyone of the GunHorde and a great thanks to Weasel. Hope everyone is well and have a great week!

Posted by: Coelacanth at April 19, 2026 08:38 PM (DJPFk)

164 I get it. Virginia is where I have lived the longest but have never felt it was "home" - I was born in SC.

Florida is where we are going to retire. It's been on plan for the past 6 years. This just moves it up.
Posted by: blaster - Fortis Fortuna Adiuvat
**************
Virginia got us out of CA (which was never home), thank you God
We chose Tennessee as our final home back in 2018 and I'm thrilled it is finally coming to be.

Posted by: The Grateful - Acta Non Verba at April 19, 2026 08:38 PM (IQ6Gq)

165 Only interesting firearm at duty day last week wasn't a firearm - a couple of air rifles. I'd never seen these before. I said to the guy at check-in as he humped his 45 (well it looked like a scuba 45 tank) "so, we're doing some diving today?". Anyway, interesting. The 45-cal rifle was almost loud enough to require hearing protection at my distance.

Posted by: rhomboid at April 19, 2026 08:40 PM (U/Byj)

166 I have a decent stash of flints, enough for several years of shooting. But this is why I keep my eyes open for deals for expendable supplies like flints, percussion caps and primers, even 22lr ammo. I've seen enough times when these weren't available for a time so I've learned to maintain a sufficient supply when possible.

Just FYI.
Posted by: JTB at April 19, 2026 08:34 PM (yTvNw)

Is there a particular texture or color of flint that is preferred? Speaking as retired geologist, "flint" is just a name given to certain types of nodular chalcedony, which is just microcrystalline quartz. "Agate" is the semi-precious form of the same thing, chosen for clarity and color banding.

Posted by: Alberta Oil Peon at April 19, 2026 08:40 PM (utfVc)

167 Just bought some ammo. 500 rds of 147 from Bereli

Posted by: blaster - Fortis Fortuna Adiuvat at April 19, 2026 08:44 PM (NlEaG)

168 AOP

What rock did you gift me and where did you find it. I need to wrote this down.

Posted by: nurse ratched at April 19, 2026 08:44 PM (A5RD0)

169 Thought I'd have the oldest gun at the range last week, with my 1927 Tula Mosin-Nagant. But one of my crew brought a bunch of his lever rifles, one was an 1892 32WCF. For which he reloads, of course, though I think he said Fiocchi sometimes does runs of that ammo.

Posted by: rhomboid at April 19, 2026 08:45 PM (U/Byj)

170 Range bag contents:

I keep a large bandana in the range bag, for the usage of women at the range who've ignored the advice not to wear low-cut tops.

I've had a couple who insisted it wasn't needed. The first piece of hot brass landing in their decolletage seems to initiate a reconsideration of that, for some reason.

Posted by: Duncanthrax at April 19, 2026 08:45 PM (0sNs1)

171 146 USS Spruance has used its 5 inch gun to disable an Iranian cargo ship trying to run our blockade. Marines have boarded the ship and are in control.

Posted by: Archer at April 19, 2026 08:29 PM

I should probably keep a couple of Marines in my range bag.

I can think of several occasions where that addition might come in handy!

Posted by: Pillage Idiot at April 19, 2026 08:46 PM (HlyYF)

172 *raises hand sheepishly*

Uhh, what would they be used for?
Posted by: Scuba_Dude
========
Primarily for handguns--some disassemble trigger groups etc like a Glock or Sig with one pin punch. Also very useful for AR pattern rifles and quite a few shotguns, rifles, etc.

Posted by: whig at April 19, 2026 08:47 PM (E4rtv)

173 Duncan, depending on the woman in question, I'd think a chivalrous offer to help fish out the brass might be appropriate. Could be wrong.

Posted by: rhomboid at April 19, 2026 08:47 PM (U/Byj)

174 170 Range bag contents:

I keep a large bandana in the range bag, for the usage of women at the range who've ignored the advice not to wear low-cut tops.

I've had a couple who insisted it wasn't needed. The first piece of hot brass landing in their decolletage seems to initiate a reconsideration of that, for some reason.
Posted by: Duncanthrax
=====
I'm sure you volunteer to tie it around their necks and arrange them.

Posted by: whig at April 19, 2026 08:48 PM (E4rtv)

175 Nice that the Navy has at least one serious gun still on the destroyers. Imagine it was pretty easy to disable that Iranian ship by putting a few rounds into the engineering spaces.

Posted by: rhomboid at April 19, 2026 08:48 PM (U/Byj)

176 The US Navy disabled an Iranian cargo ship with a 5 inch gun.

I guess they were right about the 1911's stopping power.

Posted by: blaster - Fortis Fortuna Adiuvat at April 19, 2026 08:49 PM (NlEaG)

177 What rock did you gift me and where did you find it. I need to wrote this down.
Posted by: nurse ratched at April 19, 2026 08:44 PM (A5RD0)

It is a piece of serpentine that I chipped off a large nodule in the margin of a big fault near the Gila River in Arizona. I thought the color and luster of it was much nicer than one typically sees in serpentine.

Posted by: Alberta Oil Peon at April 19, 2026 08:49 PM (utfVc)

178 Going to go catch up with the latest episode of Monarch Legacy of Monsters.
Still pumped from a great day at the range.
Thanks Weasel
Have a great week all.
🔫🤠💃❤️

Posted by: Sharon(willow's apprentice) at April 19, 2026 08:50 PM (kJmSS)

179 Dinner bell ringing.

Thanks for The Gub Thread, Weasel!

Have a good week, Morons!

Posted by: Pillage Idiot at April 19, 2026 08:50 PM (HlyYF)

180 I thought the color and luster of it was much nicer than one typically sees in serpentine.
Posted by: Alberta Oil Peon at April 19, 2026 08:49 PM (utfVc)

Serpentine!

Serpentine!

Posted by: blaster - Fortis Fortuna Adiuvat at April 19, 2026 08:50 PM (NlEaG)

181 169 Thought I'd have the oldest gun at the range last week, with my 1927 Tula Mosin-Nagant. But one of my crew brought a bunch of his lever rifles, one was an 1892 32WCF. For which he reloads, of course, though I think he said Fiocchi sometimes does runs of that ammo.
Posted by: rhomboid

32-20 is pretty much a reloader only nowadays due to cost and availability plus rifles and handgun ammo in that cartridge should really not be mixed. They used to actually market rifle marked boxes of ammo that should NEVER be used in a handgun despite the bullets and cartridge being identical. Until smokeless powder came, it was not an issue but now it is. You can blow up a handgun with higher pressure rifle marked ammo.

Starline makes the brass but it is come and go for ammo depending on the vagaries of what the Cowboy Shooting afficionados use. It is a sure enough ole Cowboy cartridge.

Posted by: whig at April 19, 2026 08:51 PM (E4rtv)

182 And now you're part of AI learning! Yay AI!

Posted by: Hokey Pokey at April 19, 2026 08:52 PM (YlWIZ)

183 Just got done cleaning 20 long guns and 2 pistols; mostly wiping them down and running an oiled patch down the bore on stuff I don't shoot frequently. I try to hit them up once a year.

Got to try Boretech Eliminator and Carbon Cleaner on an old K98, though, spent about an hour on it, and also took apart the bolt for what was probably its first daylight since the late 40's. The bore looks fantastic now... was worried it had gotten pitted with corrosive yugo 8mm and the wet climate I had for years. I got about 1200 rounds of 8mm left, but probably will save it for the kids to run through.

Pro tip; regular motor oil fights rust pretty good, just don't shoot semi autos with it as the mist will give you toxic fumes from the additives. But if you want even better corrosion protection use Corrosion-X. It just plain works, even when wiped to where it is dry to the touch... seems to hold up for years if not disturbed and you avoid outright water or condensation.

You gotta preserve these tools for later generations where possible.

Posted by: heya at April 19, 2026 08:53 PM (28ma9)

184 Posted by: Scuba_Dude at April 19, 2026 08:32 PM (QrtBZ)
---
Nite Scoob.

Posted by: Weasel at April 19, 2026 08:53 PM (PVV5z)

185 Nice that the Navy has at least one serious gun still on the destroyers. Imagine it was pretty easy to disable that Iranian ship by putting a few rounds into the engineering spaces.
Posted by: rhomboid at April 19, 2026 08:48 PM (U/Byj)

Rate of fire is one round every three or four seconds. That's enough steel coming at you to put the hurt on anything that isn't armored. Which is pretty much anything at sea today.

Posted by: Ed L at April 19, 2026 08:53 PM (BCwQW)

186 176 The US Navy disabled an Iranian cargo ship with a 5 inch gun.

I guess they were right about the 1911's stopping power.
Posted by: blaster - Fortis Fortuna Adiuvat at April 19, 2026 08:49 PM (NlEaG

Posted by: Hokey Pokey at April 19, 2026 08:53 PM (YlWIZ)

187 I need to get smarter (much smarter) about AR malfunctions. They're about 95% of the malfunctions at the range, and so far I've let other crew members handle them. Had a really nasty one this past week that took a while to fix. Lovely - couldn't do a ceasefire because the jam had a chambered cartridge.

CA of course has all sorts of idiotic laws about ARs, so the "compliant" ones can have exotic malfunctions.

After I finally get around to building my first AR (have many of the components for two in the garage) I assume I'll have a better intuitive approach to diagnosing problems.

Posted by: rhomboid at April 19, 2026 08:53 PM (U/Byj)

188 Starline makes the brass but it is come and go for ammo depending on the vagaries of what the Cowboy Shooting afficionados use. It is a sure enough ole Cowboy cartridge.
Posted by: whig at April 19, 2026 08:51 PM (E4rtv)

Robert Johnson wrote a song about the 32-20, but it might have been something of an allegory...

Posted by: Alberta Oil Peon at April 19, 2026 08:54 PM (utfVc)

189 162 ... "Please forgive my ignorance as I don't use black powder weapons, but can't one find and use flints from natural outcrops?"

Some types of flint work better than others. The key is to make a size and shape that meet the frizzen (the part that sparks) appropriately. It is very much a hand craft and takes time to learn. First to hammer out the basic shape, then to refine it to the proper edge. The technique is similar to making a flint arrowhead or spear point.

Posted by: JTB at April 19, 2026 08:54 PM (yTvNw)

190 Range bags, I have a few. One is setup for rollout, another smaller one is set up for range, and then I have some single firearm and magazine types that are hand carry.

Have my gunsmithing tools for ARs and basic gunsmithing in a separate rollout toolbox.

Posted by: whig at April 19, 2026 08:55 PM (E4rtv)

191 Weasel, it's time for me to call it a night. Thanks for hosting!

Posted by: Ed L at April 19, 2026 08:56 PM (BCwQW)

192 I won’t get people from VA started on state income taxes either.

Posted by: Cow Demon at April 19, 2026 08:59 PM (T6aVk)

193 USS Spruance has used its 5 inch gun to disable an Iranian cargo ship trying to run our blockade. Marines have boarded the ship and are in control.
Posted by: Archer at April 19, 2026 08:29 PM (wvc0i)

Can't carry a 5-incher in VA....

Posted by: GWB at April 19, 2026 08:59 PM (sofQO)

194 Some types of flint work better than others. The key is to make a size and shape that meet the frizzen (the part that sparks) appropriately. It is very much a hand craft and takes time to learn. First to hammer out the basic shape, then to refine it to the proper edge. The technique is similar to making a flint arrowhead or spear point.
Posted by: JTB at April 19, 2026 08:54 PM (yTvNw)

This might be an extremely dumb question, but I will ask it anyway. Could you embed a ferrocerium lighter flint in a matrix of soft metal and use that in a flintlock? If the frizzen is ribbed or knurled, it ought to give a huge shower of sparks.

Posted by: Alberta Oil Peon at April 19, 2026 09:00 PM (utfVc)

195 Serpentine!

Serpentine!
Posted by: blaster - Fortis Fortuna Adiuvat at April 19, 2026 08:50 PM

You'll just die tired.

Posted by: The Sniper at April 19, 2026 09:01 PM (0sNs1)

196 Of course things have changed considerably as far as naval gunnery requirements, but a shame we don't have something like the Brooklyn-class "machine gun cruisers" of WWII. The current 5-inch mount as Ed L noted has a high rate of fire, but those old cruisers could put 150 rounds of 6-inch fire per minute on a target. Making any engagement where they got the first shot pretty much a one-punch knock-out engagement.

Posted by: rhomboid at April 19, 2026 09:01 PM (U/Byj)

197 After I finally get around to building my first AR (have many of the components for two in the garage) I assume I'll have a better intuitive approach to diagnosing problems.
Posted by: rhomboid

Worn out or shoddy magazines, poor quality ammo, dirty with a case stuck in the chamber, and wobbly shit like a loose gas key, ruined buffer, or buggered up gas tube. Occasionally you get weirder ones like a cam pin shearing or a popped primer falling into the trigger mechanism.
Also, you get some using 5.56 in a match chambered .223.

The last of it is poor quality build, poor quality parts, and lousy gunsmithing.

Posted by: whig at April 19, 2026 09:02 PM (E4rtv)

198 Late, but well-fed.
Posted by: RI Red at April 19, 2026 07:48 PM

Your disdain for negative entries in your Permanent Record is an inspiration to us all!

Posted by: Duncanthrax at April 19, 2026 09:03 PM (0sNs1)

199 Of course things have changed considerably as far as naval gunnery requirements, but a shame we don't have something like the Brooklyn-class "machine gun cruisers" of WWII. The current 5-inch mount as Ed L noted has a high rate of fire, but those old cruisers could put 150 rounds of 6-inch fire per minute on a target. Making any engagement where they got the first shot pretty much a one-punch knock-out engagement.

Posted by: rhomboid at April 19, 2026 09:01 PM (U/Byj)

That would turn a Chinese tanker into a Nerf Tanker, and send it to the bottom right quicksmart.

Posted by: Alberta Oil Peon at April 19, 2026 09:04 PM (utfVc)

200 198 Late, but well-fed.
Posted by: RI Red
=======
Same reason for me. But I was making Chicken Marsala with roasted asparagus along with a mixed side salad. Then cleanup. Running late with errands today.

Posted by: whig at April 19, 2026 09:05 PM (E4rtv)

201 Calling it a night, here.

Thanks for another great Gun Thread, Weasel!

Posted by: RedMindBlueState at April 19, 2026 09:05 PM (Wnv9h)

202 Have a great week, Ed L and Scuba Dude.

Posted by: whig at April 19, 2026 09:05 PM (E4rtv)

203 No Range Report. Was wash Airplanes and Harleys day. Didn't get done. I did find a .45 Springfield XDM that I had misplaced, so that was nice. Thanks for the Gun Thread Weasel!

Posted by: DBCooper at April 19, 2026 09:05 PM (IzXnX)

204 166 ... "Is there a particular texture or color of flint that is preferred?"

Hi AOP,
I don't know if the color makes a difference. In my experience black and amber work the same. I assume the specific rock used lends itself to knapping better than other types of chalcedony. I do have a flint nodule but haven't tried to make anything from it. I have learned to refresh the sharp edge of a gun flint but, with my less than delicate touch, the result isn't assured.

Posted by: JTB at April 19, 2026 09:05 PM (yTvNw)

205 Yep whig that covers most of the territory. In this case, the AR was as dry as a Santa Ana day in the east county (where the range is located). Ridiculous. His pump shotgun, ditto. We made him promise that he would go home, clean and lube everything, and see a gunsmith - he said that's exactly what he would do.

He was a very nice guy, just sort of a too-casual gun guy on the technical side. He brought a group of 5 newbies, who were generally very safe, but we still had eyes-on his group almost every minute.

Speaking of dry, they came to the range because BLM just shut down their lands nearby for shooting due to fire hazard (brush moisture content's gotta be very low, surprised they didn't shut down last month). We were thinking how unpleasant it might have been to be near this group on BLM land with no RSOs or range rules.

Posted by: rhomboid at April 19, 2026 09:06 PM (U/Byj)

206 Duncan, depending on the woman in question, I'd think a chivalrous offer to help fish out the brass might be appropriate. Could be wrong.
Posted by: rhomboid at April 19, 2026 08:47 PM

Somehow, they've always managed to extract it before I could make that offer.

=====

I'm sure you volunteer to tie it around their necks and arrange them.
Posted by: whig at April 19, 2026 08:48 PM

Why, yes I do. How did you know?

Posted by: Duncanthrax at April 19, 2026 09:06 PM (0sNs1)

207 Major Flex Alert.

DBCooper has a plane to wash. And so many guns he misplaced his XDM.

Be more like DBCooper, everyone.

Posted by: rhomboid at April 19, 2026 09:08 PM (U/Byj)

208 Thanks Rhomboid! And too many Cigars to smoke.

Posted by: DBCooper at April 19, 2026 09:10 PM (IzXnX)

209 Speaking of dry, they came to the range because BLM just shut down their lands nearby for shooting due to fire hazard (brush moisture content's gotta be very low, surprised they didn't shut down last month). We were thinking how unpleasant it might have been to be near this group on BLM land with no RSOs or range rules.
Posted by: rhomboid
=======
Traditional gas impingement/gas piston ARs like to run wet. It can help if you have stainless,chromed, or nitrided steel carriers but you still need lube to avoid galling between the carrier (steel of some sort) and the receiver (aluminum). Match rifles are always fussy especially with ammo.

Posted by: whig at April 19, 2026 09:14 PM (E4rtv)

210 DBCooper is a gem.

Really. One helluva guy.

Posted by: nurse ratched at April 19, 2026 09:18 PM (A5RD0)

211 Posted by: rhomboid

FWIW, fixing an regular AR rifle at the range is fairly easy as a small packet of parts suitable for a range bag can fix about 95 percent of parts breakages along with using good quality parts in the first place.

A Glock or S&W M&P or Springfield XD, ditto. Then you get into more involved problems requiring a trip home for me. Revolvers in particular, other than a loose screw, are not really fixable in the field for issues like spitting lead, warped crane, timing, bolt, firing pin,etc.

Posted by: whig at April 19, 2026 09:19 PM (E4rtv)

212 Why, yes I do. How did you know?
Posted by: Duncanthrax
======
Lucky guess.

Posted by: whig at April 19, 2026 09:19 PM (E4rtv)

213 Serpentine!

Serpentine!
Posted by: blaster - Fortis Fortuna Adiuvat at April 19, 2026 08:50 PM (NlEaG)

You know, if you put a crab or clam house in the middle of your collection, you get:
Serpentine, Shell, Serpentine!

Posted by: GWB at April 19, 2026 09:21 PM (StVbn)

214 Like DB Cooper says, thanks for the gun thread Weasel.

Posted by: whig at April 19, 2026 09:21 PM (E4rtv)

215 194 ... "This might be an extremely dumb question, but I will ask it anyway. Could you embed a ferrocerium lighter flint in a matrix of soft metal and use that in a flintlock? If the frizzen is ribbed or knurled, it ought to give a huge shower of sparks."

AOP, the question isn't dumb at all. Your describing a wheellock, which worked much like a Zippo lighter. They were used in the 1600s but the mechanism was rather fragile and required specific skills to maintain and repair. They were overtaken by the early flintlocks in the 1700s which were easier and cheaper to make and much more robust. Since I shoot traditional style BP guns, I stick to the standard locks of the 18th and early 19th centuries.

In an absolute SHTF situation, I could use a match or burning twig to ignite the powder in he pan, sort of a half-assed matchlock.

Posted by: JTB at April 19, 2026 09:23 PM (yTvNw)

216 Ja, DThrax. At this point I think the only important review of my Permanent Record will be St. Peter.
As if I will make it.

Posted by: RI Red at April 19, 2026 09:23 PM (z1SIt)

217 Weasel,
Thanks for another wonderful thread and especially for the video of the pups. Firearms and adorable make a good match.

Posted by: JTB at April 19, 2026 09:26 PM (yTvNw)

218 OK, 9:27 thank you time.

Thank you!

Sure do appreciate all y'all being here tonight and hope to see you next Sunday!

Posted by: Weasel at April 19, 2026 09:27 PM (PVV5z)

219 Thanks JTB!

Posted by: Weasel at April 19, 2026 09:27 PM (PVV5z)

220 On a different note, is tomorrow going to be Bridge & Power Plant Day?

Posted by: Weasel at April 19, 2026 09:28 PM (PVV5z)

221 Your describing a wheellock, which worked much like a Zippo lighter. They were used in the 1600s but the mechanism was rather fragile and required specific skills to maintain and repair. They were overtaken by the early flintlocks in the 1700s which were easier and cheaper to make and much more robust. Since I shoot traditional style BP guns, I stick to the standard locks of the 18th and early 19th centuries.

In an absolute SHTF situation, I could use a match or burning twig to ignite the powder in he pan, sort of a half-assed matchlock.
Posted by: JTB at April 19, 2026 09:23 PM (yTvNw)

Except I believe the wheellocks used flints to shed sparks off the wheel, right? I don't think ferrocerium "flints" for lighters became available until the 20th Century, maybe late 19th at the earliest.

Posted by: Alberta Oil Peon at April 19, 2026 09:29 PM (utfVc)

222 Thank you!

Sure do appreciate all y'all being here tonight and hope to see you next Sunday!
Posted by: Weasel at April 19, 2026 09:27 PM (PVV5z)

Thank you, Weasel!

Posted by: Alberta Oil Peon at April 19, 2026 09:29 PM (utfVc)

223 Thanks, Weasel, Horde.
Night.

Posted by: GWB at April 19, 2026 09:30 PM (StVbn)

224 Night, Weasel. I’ll be glued to the Bombing Damage Assessments tomorrow!

Posted by: RI Red at April 19, 2026 09:30 PM (z1SIt)

225 220 On a different note, is tomorrow going to be Bridge & Power Plant Day?
Posted by: Weasel at April 19, 2026 09:28 PM (PVV5z)

Not for Iran it won't.

Posted by: blaster - Fortis Fortuna Adiuvat at April 19, 2026 09:30 PM (NlEaG)

226 " After I finally get around to building my first AR (have many of the components for two in the garage) I assume I'll have a better intuitive approach to diagnosing problems.
Posted by: rhomboid"

You should not have any issues to troubleshoot with legit components. BCM, Colt, LMT, Daniel Defense, Sionics, for lower parts kits. LMT, Colt, Vltor for buffer tubes. Toolcraft is OEM for a lot of bolts, as is Microbest. Almost anything forged works for receivers, but be aware that PSA machines them differently for cost savings and this can cause weird crap like halves that won't mate, finicky charging handle slots, etc.

There are tools you can get to tweak the gas tube in the upper so it doesn't bind on the carrier key (Michiguns) and jigs (SLR) to dimple gas blocks. Geissele makes a nice gas tube roll pin punch. Very handy. Precision Armament makes a great shim set to time brakes and flash hiders. That's about the only tricky stuff in a normal build. Magpul BEV blocks or MI reaction rods make barreling trivial these days.

I should consider doing a whole writeup, honestly.

Posted by: heya at April 19, 2026 09:31 PM (28ma9)

227 Night, Weasel. I’ll be glued to the Bombing Damage Assessments tomorrow!
Posted by: RI Red
****
Ditto. Thanks Weasel. And God bless and protect our military in potential harm's way.

Posted by: The Grateful - Acta Non Verba at April 19, 2026 09:32 PM (IQ6Gq)

228 Losing a gun would hurt as bad as having it taken.

Posted by: Eromero at April 19, 2026 09:33 PM (LHPAg)

229 Howdy, Weaponistas! I've had dinner in my Salina hotel "suite," enjoyed a short pipe, and called Miss Linda to see how she is doing. And the cats, of course. All three are fine. Apparently, she says, I need to buy a new filter for their water fountain. When she cleaned the current filter, Dagny started using the fountain again. Stirling seems to prefer the water tap at all times.

I'm tired, of course, but glad to be here in one piece.

Posted by: Wolfus Aurelius, Dreaming of Elsewhere at April 19, 2026 09:33 PM (+2QQb)

230 Thanks Weasel for all you do!

Posted by: AZ deplorable moron at April 19, 2026 09:34 PM (YBtcQ)

231
"Please forgive my ignorance as I don't use black powder weapons, but can't one find and use flints from natural outcrops?"

What did Daniel Boone use?

Posted by: Bertram Cabot, Jr. at April 19, 2026 09:37 PM (Cqx++)

232 What did Daniel Boone use?
Posted by: Bertram Cabot, Jr. at April 19, 2026 09:37 PM (Cqx++)
---
Amazon?

Posted by: Weasel at April 19, 2026 09:38 PM (1S3fY)

233 On a different note, is tomorrow going to be Bridge & Power Plant Day?

Posted by: Weasel at April 19, 2026 09:28 PM (PVV5z)

It is possible.

Posted by: Antonia at April 19, 2026 09:38 PM (KO+sI)

234 After I finally get around to building my first AR (have many of the components for two in the garage) I assume I'll have a better intuitive approach to diagnosing problems.
Posted by: rhomboid

If you want to save a few $$, don't buy a barrel nut wrench or a castle nut wrench. Hit me at the link in the nic and I'll loan you mine for the cost of return postage. Same offer to any Moron in good standing. You probably should go ahead and buy torque wrenches if you don't already have them just because they're generally useful to have around.

Posted by: Oddbob at April 19, 2026 09:39 PM (vTZFs)

235 221 ... "Except I believe the wheellocks used flints to shed sparks off the wheel, right? I don't think ferrocerium "flints" for lighters became available until the 20th Century, maybe late 19th at the earliest."

I was thinking of the general mechanism, not the materials. I hadn't even heard of ferrocerium until I looked into a fire starting kit and those are modern. I've seen mention of using a ferro rod or piece against a file attached to the frizzen face. Supposedly it worked but the traditional style locks made it difficult to keep the materials in proper alignment. It was all done as a fun experiment, apparently.

Posted by: JTB at April 19, 2026 09:39 PM (yTvNw)

236 After I finally get around to building my first AR (have many of the components for two in the garage) I assume I'll have a better intuitive approach to diagnosing problems.

Posted by: rhomboid at April 19, 2026 08:53 PM (U/Byj)

It's a hoot!

I built all of my lowers and all but one of my uppers, and I learned a lot about how they function. The problems were trivial and manageable, especially for someone like you who is comfortable with guns, so don't listen to the internet experts who obsess over ridiculously minuscule variations.

Posted by: CharlieBrown'sDildo at April 19, 2026 09:40 PM (n9ltV)

237 Losing a gun would hurt as bad as having it taken.
Posted by: Eromero at April 19, 2026 09:33 PM (LHPAg)

This why all Horde watercraft must be equipped with a powerful magnet on a long rope.

Posted by: Alberta Oil Peon at April 19, 2026 09:40 PM (utfVc)

238 Thanks ~~Weasel~~ Gertie for all you do!

Posted by: AZ deplorable moron at April 19, 2026 09:34 PM (YBtcQ)

FIFY

Posted by: CharlieBrown'sDildo at April 19, 2026 09:41 PM (n9ltV)

239 Of course have no idea about Bridge & Power Plant Day (for those who celebrate), but I'm kind of enjoying the Fog of Peace that Trump generates around negotiations and the state of play.

I'm fairly serene about prevailing overall, so not inclined to get wrapped around the axle about the constant 180s and contradictions (in public matters).

There are plenty of targets to address of the sort previously visited. Missile launchers and storage, primarily (the turbans have been busily unearthing lots of both), and (my favorite, for reasons) suppressing anti-shipping capability in a systematic fashion beyond what's been done already.

Posted by: rhomboid at April 19, 2026 09:42 PM (U/Byj)

240 I was thinking of the general mechanism, not the materials. I hadn't even heard of ferrocerium until I looked into a fire starting kit and those are modern. I've seen mention of using a ferro rod or piece against a file attached to the frizzen face. Supposedly it worked but the traditional style locks made it difficult to keep the materials in proper alignment. It was all done as a fun experiment, apparently.
Posted by: JTB at April 19, 2026 09:39 PM (yTvNw)

I actually have a NIB Traditions (IIRC) .50 caliber flintlock stashed away for a rainy day. Maybe I should drag it out and play with it. Have powder and shot, too.

Posted by: Alberta Oil Peon at April 19, 2026 09:43 PM (utfVc)

241 Oddbod thanks for the generous offer.

I'm pretty fortunate in having an RSO crew that includes one serious gun nut/expert and one mechanic, pretty sure they have all the "don't buy if you can borrow" tools for AR builds.

Posted by: rhomboid at April 19, 2026 09:44 PM (U/Byj)

242 Posted by: CharlieBrown'sDildo at April 19, 2026 09:41 PM (n9ltV)
----
Gertie even got a vote as a write-in candidate for city council recently!

Posted by: Weasel at April 19, 2026 09:44 PM (1S3fY)

243 If you want to save a few $$, don't buy a barrel nut wrench or a castle nut wrench. Hit me at the link in the nic and I'll loan you mine for the cost of return postage. Same offer to any Moron in good standing. You probably should go ahead and buy torque wrenches if you don't already have them just because they're generally useful to have around.
Posted by: Oddbob
=======
I ended up getting a crowsfoot assortment just for tightening AR handguard barrel nuts with torque wrenches. I built quite a few to say FU to Barry Soetero and his causing panic buying by his bloviations and DoJ criminal cronies like Holder, etc.

Posted by: whig at April 19, 2026 09:44 PM (E4rtv)

244 231 ... "What did Daniel Boone use?"

Never heard the question come up. I assumed Boone used prepared flints, which were easily available in the 1700s. Even carrying a good supply on a long trek would be light and not require much space in his pack. There are examples of leather 'flint wallets' from that time designed to hold several and protect the edges

Posted by: JTB at April 19, 2026 09:46 PM (yTvNw)

245 The stamped steel barrel nut wrenches and castle nut wrenches sold at gun shows are pretty cheap; single-digit $$$ IIRC.

Posted by: Alberta Oil Peon at April 19, 2026 09:46 PM (utfVc)

246 245 The stamped steel barrel nut wrenches and castle nut wrenches sold at gun shows are pretty cheap; single-digit $$$ IIRC.
Posted by: Alberta Oil Peon

Depends on the tempering. Some of the Chicom steel is just trash. Barrel nuts depend on whether you use the GI plastic handguards which are not floating or whether you use aftermarket Keymod or M-KLok handguards. Those generally come with a proprietary barrel nut which also serves to attach the floating handguard unit.

Posted by: whig at April 19, 2026 09:50 PM (E4rtv)

247 240 ... "I actually have a NIB Traditions (IIRC) .50 caliber flintlock stashed away for a rainy day. Maybe I should drag it out and play with it. Have powder and shot, too."

Hope you get it out to try, especially with warmer weather coming up. Traditions gets knocked a lot but I have several and while they aren't high end, they work just fine. I think you would have fun learning how to load and maintain BP guns.

BTW, flintlocks really need real black powder to function reliably. The substitutes like pyrodex aren't as good although they work just fine for percussion guns.

Posted by: JTB at April 19, 2026 09:52 PM (yTvNw)

248 Hope you get it out to try, especially with warmer weather coming up. Traditions gets knocked a lot but I have several and while they aren't high end, they work just fine. I think you would have fun learning how to load and maintain BP guns.

BTW, flintlocks really need real black powder to function reliably. The substitutes like pyrodex aren't as good although they work just fine for percussion guns.
Posted by: JTB at April 19, 2026 09:52 PM (yTvNw)

Got into the '70's here today. If it is as nice tomorrow, maybe I will steal some time from working on cars, lay out a blanket on my big outside worktable, and open the box.

Posted by: Alberta Oil Peon at April 19, 2026 09:56 PM (utfVc)

249 Fire Maidens? No wonder Elon wants to go to space.

Posted by: wth at April 19, 2026 10:00 PM (BT3km)

250 ONT live!

Posted by: clarence at April 19, 2026 10:02 PM (9Z/+O)

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