Day before yesterday I was following a story that I think was being ignored by mainstream media (msm). Maybe they had foresight that I did not because it turned out to not be an issue. The Naval Medical Center in San Diego, California had a real world active shooter event. They locked down the hospital and some schools near the large medical facility. I thought it was going to start again. I am so grateful the alert was not necessary. There was no shooter but someone reported that they heard shots. I’m assuming it was something that sounded like gunfire. I tell you this, recognizing real gunfire is a skill that should be worked on. Exposure to the real deal will help when something else makes sounds that sound like gun shots.
The alert is typical of a federal installation, “Run, Hide, Fight!” I’m actually amazed a government facility ever says anything about fighting. Usually the powers that be are scared of their own shadows and they advise everything BUT fighting. So maybe that is progress. I have mixed feelings about that RHF advice. So how would you have handled this situation? I happen to work on a federal installation and I think about this a lot.
My answer would depend on who was with me. My wife, my kids, or certain friends would change my answer. Most of the time if I was with someone I would just try to get out. If I was alone I think I would try to get out. If I couldn’t get out I would not hide. I guess it depends on what you call fortifying my position, finding an improvised weapon or securing my own pre-positioned weapon. If that is hiding then so be it. I cannot see myself hiding. Hiding to me is cowering behind a chair. I would prefer to not fight, but I would prepare to fight. If you decide to fight what is your general plan? Do you know where real cover is in the building where you work? What improvised weapons do you see or handle every day?
Weapons can be almost anything. I carry a tactical pen and a knife everywhere. I carry a gun almost everywhere. What about a sock with a bar of soap or maybe with batteries in it. The more the merrier. If everyone you are with does this you will have a formidable force. Even a shirt or coat tied and filled with a stapler or batteries in it would do. I also carry a tac light that could be used as a kubaton.
A fire extinguisher can be a wonderful weapon. Make sure the extinguisher is small enough for this. If it’s too heavy you won’t be able to hit someone with it. Spraying an attacker with it and then using it for blunt force trauma is a good idea.
As a group you could decide to just mob the terrorist. Swarming them will change their OODA Loop and throw them off with enough time for a mob to knock them down and overpower them. If you feel this might be your choice make sure you come from different angles to keep the attacker off guard. Don’t underestimate yelling and screaming. Surprise is a great tool. Speed and enough violence to injure the attacker so that you can injure them again and finally take them out of the fight, neutralize the threat.
Broom handles can be a wonderful weapon. If you think this may be in your future training with a staff is important. Aiming for the neck, or other vulnerable targets would be enough to save yourself or others.
Deciding to RHF is a choice you must make. Everyone is different and has different skills and abilities. No two answers to the “fight” questions would be the same. The point of this article is for you to think about scenarios and what you would do. Plan a little. Think about these questions and look at what resources you have at home, school, or work.
Active shooters can happen almost anywhere. If it is your home it is an invasion. But schools and work are considered active shooters. Now is the time to prepare not after you get the “Run, Hide, Fight” warning. Plan and prepare.
Semper Paratus
Check 6
Burn
Friday, January 29, 2016
Thursday, January 28, 2016
Call Signs
Call signs are things that just happen. Some have tried to give themselves a call sign but that usually does not work. How do you receive a call sign? Do something stupid or have it fit with your last name. Obvious examples, 'Crash' or LT 'Cheese' Kraft. Sometimes it's based on a physical appearance thing like 'Carrot'. After you've earned the respect of your buddies, you'll get a more 'heroic' callsign.
Here are some funny ones.
"Fisher" Price
"Curtains" - First female B-1 crewmember, required reinstallation of toliet privacy curtains
Easter "Bunny"
"Cuddles" Caudell
"Huggy" Huggans
"CJ" - Continuous Jam on the radio (bad comm discipline)
Causai "Moto"
"D-Day"
"DD" - Dead Dave - Was actually clinically dead during water training accident...recovered of course
"Crash"
"Thor"
"Slo Mo"
"Random" - Under stress tended to mix up call sign numbers on radio
"Kitten"
"Thorton" melon
"Baja" - Went 'off roading' in an F-15 at the end of the runway
"Robo"
"Chemo" - yep, looks like a chemo therapy patient
Cinamon "Toast"
These are the three rules of Callsigns
1. If you don't already have one, you will be assigned one by your "buddies".
2. You probably won't like it.
3. If you complain and moan too much about 1. and 2., you'll get a new nickname you'll like even less!
My call sign is Burning Bush. I don’t mind it actually. Would you want to be called a manifestation of God? It had nothing to do with me being like God. I was in LDS Seminary growing up and the year we were studying the Old Testament I had frizzy, red hair. A red afro. Someone looked at me and said “Burning Bush!” It stuck through the rest of the year. I was actually asked in jump school for a call sign. They had given us a choice. I noticed that even when someone chose a call sign they were “over ruled” by others who thought they should be called something else. In the military I did not have a big afro anymore, but my short military haircut still looked like a small burning bush. It seemed to stick. So that is what I go by when I need an “alias”.
What would your Call Sign be?
Semper Paratus
Check 6
Burn
Here are some funny ones.
"Fisher" Price
"Curtains" - First female B-1 crewmember, required reinstallation of toliet privacy curtains
Easter "Bunny"
"Cuddles" Caudell
"Huggy" Huggans
"CJ" - Continuous Jam on the radio (bad comm discipline)
Causai "Moto"
"D-Day"
"DD" - Dead Dave - Was actually clinically dead during water training accident...recovered of course
"Crash"
"Thor"
"Slo Mo"
"Random" - Under stress tended to mix up call sign numbers on radio
"Kitten"
"Thorton" melon
"Baja" - Went 'off roading' in an F-15 at the end of the runway
"Robo"
"Chemo" - yep, looks like a chemo therapy patient
Cinamon "Toast"
These are the three rules of Callsigns
1. If you don't already have one, you will be assigned one by your "buddies".
2. You probably won't like it.
3. If you complain and moan too much about 1. and 2., you'll get a new nickname you'll like even less!
My call sign is Burning Bush. I don’t mind it actually. Would you want to be called a manifestation of God? It had nothing to do with me being like God. I was in LDS Seminary growing up and the year we were studying the Old Testament I had frizzy, red hair. A red afro. Someone looked at me and said “Burning Bush!” It stuck through the rest of the year. I was actually asked in jump school for a call sign. They had given us a choice. I noticed that even when someone chose a call sign they were “over ruled” by others who thought they should be called something else. In the military I did not have a big afro anymore, but my short military haircut still looked like a small burning bush. It seemed to stick. So that is what I go by when I need an “alias”.
What would your Call Sign be?
Semper Paratus
Check 6
Burn
LDS Gunsite Turns 2!
January 27 marks 2 years of writing this blog. When I first started this in 2014 I was just looking for an outlet for my ideas and my expression. I felt like I had a lot of experience in certain areas and a lot to share. I also feel I have a lot to learn and actually meant for this blog to be interactive. It has not been very interactive but I don’t have a big problem with that. When I look at blogs and websites I don’t do a lot of “interaction” myself. Just the fact that in those 2 years there have been over 10,000 views keeps me going.
I know that the idea of this site, LDS Gunsite, is a little crazy. I am LDS or Mormon. I have been all my life. I grew up in Arizona but no longer live there. I also served in the military which was a great experience. I still work on a federal installation as a contractor. I am vague about myself because I feel that privacy should be more prevalent in our lives, and possibly a little paranoia is mixed in there. As an LDS member guns are not usually equated with religion. But I feel guns, security, safety, and preparedness have a definite connection. Plus the Church has a history with guns and self-defense. There are many aspects of LDS history that are connected to guns from John Browning to the Mormon Battalion to Porter Rockwell. I embrace that connection and try to help anyone who reads this blog to improve their, and their families, self-defense. It has been a fun two years.
If you want to see an article, a series of articles, or a page about a particular topic please let me know. I’m also always looking for someone who might want to share their ideas and experience with guns, self-defense, and preparedness. You do not need extensive experience with these topics and you do not need to be a member of the LDS Church. But you must be willing to share. Please let me know. Comment or e-mail me.
I’m not sure how long I will do this. I think 5 years would be a good goal to see if things will improve and I run out of ideas. Only the future knows.
It’s been a great time sharing with you dear readers. I hope to hear from you but if not, thank you for your interest.
Semper Paratus
Check 6
Burn
I know that the idea of this site, LDS Gunsite, is a little crazy. I am LDS or Mormon. I have been all my life. I grew up in Arizona but no longer live there. I also served in the military which was a great experience. I still work on a federal installation as a contractor. I am vague about myself because I feel that privacy should be more prevalent in our lives, and possibly a little paranoia is mixed in there. As an LDS member guns are not usually equated with religion. But I feel guns, security, safety, and preparedness have a definite connection. Plus the Church has a history with guns and self-defense. There are many aspects of LDS history that are connected to guns from John Browning to the Mormon Battalion to Porter Rockwell. I embrace that connection and try to help anyone who reads this blog to improve their, and their families, self-defense. It has been a fun two years.
If you want to see an article, a series of articles, or a page about a particular topic please let me know. I’m also always looking for someone who might want to share their ideas and experience with guns, self-defense, and preparedness. You do not need extensive experience with these topics and you do not need to be a member of the LDS Church. But you must be willing to share. Please let me know. Comment or e-mail me.
I’m not sure how long I will do this. I think 5 years would be a good goal to see if things will improve and I run out of ideas. Only the future knows.
It’s been a great time sharing with you dear readers. I hope to hear from you but if not, thank you for your interest.
Semper Paratus
Check 6
Burn
Wednesday, January 27, 2016
Terrorism Can Happen Here: Prepare
I watched an entire video of terrorist training the other day. You tube has many short 3 to 10 minute clips. This one was 35 minutes. It was a training camp in Syria (no surprise) and was run by ISIS (another no surprise). But I feel we can learn a lot from these training videos. This particular link was sent to me by an FBI analyst in Quantico.
From the looks of these videos we as regular citizens need to change our attitude about the threats that we face in this country. We will always have criminals and crime that we need to prepare for, but now it is the rise of an organized, trained, and well-armed team we must prepare for. A team that is bent on killing and not afraid to die themselves. Most of their goals are just murder and terror. Many criminals will shrink from even the sight of a defensive weapon leave alone someone shooting at them. These Muslim extremists (yes I said it!) are zealots who want to die for what they perceive is their cause. By the way, make no mistake, they are Muslim extremists. That does not mean that all Muslims are dangerous or terrorists, but only that most terrorists in the world today are Muslim. In World War Two we did not fight the “War on War”, we fought the war on Nazi Germany. While not all Germans were Nazis, we still had to fight Germany to defeat the Nazis. Not all Muslims are terrorists but nearly all terrorists in the world today are Muslim. So it stands to reason that we have to fight Muslims to defeat terror. But I digress…
So this means that it is time to ensure the gear you carry (EDC and otherwise) meets that challenge. If that means switching primary guns from an 8 round single stack to a 17 round double stack for more rounds then maybe that’s a good start. I have always carried a spare magazine but now have wondered if I should go further. I also think where you live makes a big difference. I live in the country outside of a small town. I don’t worry too much about a terrorist attack because the body count would probably not meet the terrorist needs. I’m not saying it can’t happen here, I’m just saying it is unlikely.
I have added some magazines and a box of ammo to my vehicle. If I lived in a large metropolitan area I may consider a battle rifle and a TAC vest in my vehicle. This is something you must decide for yourself. Always consider the problem of storing a weapon in your vehicle considering safety and risk of it being stolen.
I have always said the going to a range, standing up in front of a paper target in perfect stance and squeezing off several rounds, is not really training for reality. Shooting in many different positions and cover, drawing from many positions, combat reloads (even though most civilian confrontations do not require a reload) and shooting a moving target is more real than what we are used to.
Situational awareness and “moving off the X” or changing the OODA loop is also something that needs to be addressed. Knowing what is going on in a large crowd, such as big concerts or sporting events, is very important. Recognizing the sound of gunfire is something that many people should learn about. Do you know the difference between a firecracker, and handgun round or a rifle round? If you are around it much you start to know the difference and even the sound of an AK from an AR. Identifying shots fired and from what direction should be learned.
Exit awareness and what might constitute cover also may be something practiced. Most large groups like concerts and sporting events are free fire zones. You usually cannot be legally armed at these events so what would you do? A tentative plan of action to get yourself and your loved ones out of harm’s way and not trampled in a panicked crowd is a real thing. Having a plan is not paranoid but prepared.
Your gear should reflect what you consider a real threat. How you will deploy those items and when is also a consideration. Remember how you would look to a SWAT team member going through a parking lot with an OD green vest on and holding a “evil black” rifle. Those are real considerations you must face.
Informing your family of your plans may give you some “eye rolling” but you should inform those with you your plans so they too can act accordingly. It would be horrible in a real world terrorist event if most of your family is following you to an exit and one person goes a different direction.
Restaurants can also be a magnet for terrorist activity so know exit location and choose your table well.
Now is the time to consider these things. Do not delay. Assess your situation, your gear, your training, and that of your loved ones. What scenarios should you prepare for and how do you need to train? Where are you lacking? This is the time to take this seriously and prepare your gear and train.
Semper Paratus
Check 6
Burn
From the looks of these videos we as regular citizens need to change our attitude about the threats that we face in this country. We will always have criminals and crime that we need to prepare for, but now it is the rise of an organized, trained, and well-armed team we must prepare for. A team that is bent on killing and not afraid to die themselves. Most of their goals are just murder and terror. Many criminals will shrink from even the sight of a defensive weapon leave alone someone shooting at them. These Muslim extremists (yes I said it!) are zealots who want to die for what they perceive is their cause. By the way, make no mistake, they are Muslim extremists. That does not mean that all Muslims are dangerous or terrorists, but only that most terrorists in the world today are Muslim. In World War Two we did not fight the “War on War”, we fought the war on Nazi Germany. While not all Germans were Nazis, we still had to fight Germany to defeat the Nazis. Not all Muslims are terrorists but nearly all terrorists in the world today are Muslim. So it stands to reason that we have to fight Muslims to defeat terror. But I digress…
So this means that it is time to ensure the gear you carry (EDC and otherwise) meets that challenge. If that means switching primary guns from an 8 round single stack to a 17 round double stack for more rounds then maybe that’s a good start. I have always carried a spare magazine but now have wondered if I should go further. I also think where you live makes a big difference. I live in the country outside of a small town. I don’t worry too much about a terrorist attack because the body count would probably not meet the terrorist needs. I’m not saying it can’t happen here, I’m just saying it is unlikely.
I have added some magazines and a box of ammo to my vehicle. If I lived in a large metropolitan area I may consider a battle rifle and a TAC vest in my vehicle. This is something you must decide for yourself. Always consider the problem of storing a weapon in your vehicle considering safety and risk of it being stolen.
I have always said the going to a range, standing up in front of a paper target in perfect stance and squeezing off several rounds, is not really training for reality. Shooting in many different positions and cover, drawing from many positions, combat reloads (even though most civilian confrontations do not require a reload) and shooting a moving target is more real than what we are used to.
Situational awareness and “moving off the X” or changing the OODA loop is also something that needs to be addressed. Knowing what is going on in a large crowd, such as big concerts or sporting events, is very important. Recognizing the sound of gunfire is something that many people should learn about. Do you know the difference between a firecracker, and handgun round or a rifle round? If you are around it much you start to know the difference and even the sound of an AK from an AR. Identifying shots fired and from what direction should be learned.
Exit awareness and what might constitute cover also may be something practiced. Most large groups like concerts and sporting events are free fire zones. You usually cannot be legally armed at these events so what would you do? A tentative plan of action to get yourself and your loved ones out of harm’s way and not trampled in a panicked crowd is a real thing. Having a plan is not paranoid but prepared.
Your gear should reflect what you consider a real threat. How you will deploy those items and when is also a consideration. Remember how you would look to a SWAT team member going through a parking lot with an OD green vest on and holding a “evil black” rifle. Those are real considerations you must face.
Informing your family of your plans may give you some “eye rolling” but you should inform those with you your plans so they too can act accordingly. It would be horrible in a real world terrorist event if most of your family is following you to an exit and one person goes a different direction.
Restaurants can also be a magnet for terrorist activity so know exit location and choose your table well.
Now is the time to consider these things. Do not delay. Assess your situation, your gear, your training, and that of your loved ones. What scenarios should you prepare for and how do you need to train? Where are you lacking? This is the time to take this seriously and prepare your gear and train.
Semper Paratus
Check 6
Burn
Paracord As A Tool
I love paracord. I use it for many, many things. If you’re interested, the internet has lists of uses for paracord. Suffice it to say, there are thousands of uses.
I met a command sergeant major in the 80’s who worked at Fort Benning. He had been involved with the jump school there since he was a private. He seemed to take a shine to me, I think he liked that I was older than the average recruit and had a family. Anyway, he spent more time with me than he probably should have while I was in jump school. We got to know each other fairly well and he gave me my first paracord bracelet. He used paracord for a lot of things. He started my interest and love for everything paracord.
Nowadays paracord is a popular craft item and there are many kinds and colors out there. I use paracord as a preparedness tool. Whenever I add paracord to something it immediately becomes “tactical”.
There is a difference between military specification (mil-spec) or commercial paracord.
TERMINOLOGY
“550” – refers to the minimum weight of the cord’s rated breaking strength, measured in pounds (lbs.)
TYPE III – originally one of the six types of paracord to the mil-spec standard. Designates a 7-strand inner core for commercial paracord and a 7 to 9 strand inner core for mil-spec paracord
MIL-C-5040H – the complete specification for military-use paracord
Sheath – the outer jacket of the paracord; can be nylon or polyester
Inner Core (or kern) – collectively refers to the individual twisted yarn strands within the center of the sheath
OUTER
At a glance, the difference between the genuine mil-spec cord and the commercial cord is marginal. The minimum breaking strength of both types of paracord is rated at 550 lbs.
Genuine mil-spec paracord only comes in select natural colors while the color options are endless with commercial paracord. Genuine paracord comes in black, coyote brown, white, tan, foliage (or camo) green, OD green, and orange
Genuine mil-spec paracord is 100% nylon, both the sheath and the inner core, because nylon is rot and mildew resistant which makes it a great all-weather material. Commercial grade paracord can also come in 100% nylon, or with a polyester sheath and nylon core. The polyester sheath doesn’t have as smooth a texture as a nylon sheath nor does it stretch as much as nylon. It does however have good rot/mildew resistance, is very close to nylon in strength when a steady force is applied, and is generally less expensive.
INNER
An easy way to tell the two types of 550 cord apart is by cutting into it and looking at the inner core, also known as the kern. In commercial Type III paracord, there are generally 7 individual strands and each strand may have a 2-ply or 3-ply braid, or twist. In mil-spec paracord, you will always find a 3-ply twist on the individual strands, of which there may be 7 to 9 of the strands, depending on the manufacturer.
In mil-spec paracord, you’ll find that one of the strands is color-coded whereas the others are all white. This is done by the manufacturers to meet the MIL-C-5040H standard by identifying the manufacturer, so the colors you see here will vary by manufacturer
Genuine mil-spec paracord will often be slightly thicker than commercial paracord because of its 3-ply twists on the inner strands, compared to commerical paracord’s 2-ply twists, as well as the fact that the mil-spec paracord can have up to 9 inner strands. The mil-spec cord measures closure to 4 mm (5/32 inch) while commercial cord is often closer to 3mm.
Hopefully the above information can help you spot false advertisers and make informed choices. Some people like to make the analogy of comparing brand name cereal to the store brand cereal…do you want Honey Nut Cheerios or Toasted O’s of Honey? At the end of the day, only you know what you want in terms of color variety, price, the intended use of the paracord, and whether it’s important to you or your organization that it meets the mil-spec standard.
Either way, ParaVival.com has you covered, from the government agency or military organization looking for genuine MIL-C-5040H TYPE III Paracord down to the crafter or outdoor enthusiast needing some quality Commercial Paracord!
7-strand 550 Type III paracord was the original paracord used by the US Military and it continues to be popular. It has a diameter of about 4.5 mm (3/16"). Most 550 paracord is made in the USA but there are some from overseas manufacturers.
7-strand 550 paracord comes in two basic styles:
1. Nylon sheath and nylon cord
2. Polyester sheath and nylon cord
In both cases the 7 core strands are nylon and they provide the cord's strength. The two varieties have a little different feel and they respond differently when being joined or otherwise manipulated. Both types have a 550 lb breaking strength rating.
650 Coreless
There is also a type of cord that does not have the 7 internal strands that provide the core strength. 650 coreless cord is flat, hollow, having a sheath but no internal strands. Therefore it is not as strong as regular paracord. The sheath is made of nylon and many people have found applications where is it useful. The 650 refers to the size of the cord - it is not the breaking strength.
425 Tactical Paracord
Cord that is smaller than regular 550 is often referred to as "tactical." Since it is smaller, it is easier to carry, include in survival kits and/or to conceal.
425 Tactical Paracord has a diameter of approximately 3mm or 1/8" and a test strength of 425 lbs. The 3 inner strands and the outer sheath are 100% nylon giving it excellent strength as well as UV, mold and mildew resistance.
275 Tactical Paracord
275 tactical paracord has a diameter of about 2.5mm. It has a strength rating of 275 pounds. This cord is considerably smaller than 550 paracord and is usuful when making smaller items or items where not as much strength is needed.
Type 1 Paracord
This cord has a larger diameter than Micro Cord but smaller than 275 Tactical Paracord. It is approximately 1.85 mm or 1/14 inch.
Micro and Nano Cord
Micro cord is 1.18 mm and nano cord is 0.75 mm.
Here is the tensile strength of 550 Paracord:
Outside Sheath - 305 lbs
Inner Strand - 35 lbs each x 7 strands
---------------------------------
Total Strength - 550 lbs
It's important to understand the limitations of 550 paracord. An unexperienced individual may, at first glance, see that it can support 550 lbs. and think it would be good for climbing or rapelling. I confess, it has crossed my mind before.
I want to make one thing clear: 550 Paracord IS NOT climbing rope!
Paracord is amazing cordage with limitations but if you know those limitations you can use it to it’s full potential.
Semper Paratus
Check 6
Burn
I met a command sergeant major in the 80’s who worked at Fort Benning. He had been involved with the jump school there since he was a private. He seemed to take a shine to me, I think he liked that I was older than the average recruit and had a family. Anyway, he spent more time with me than he probably should have while I was in jump school. We got to know each other fairly well and he gave me my first paracord bracelet. He used paracord for a lot of things. He started my interest and love for everything paracord.
Nowadays paracord is a popular craft item and there are many kinds and colors out there. I use paracord as a preparedness tool. Whenever I add paracord to something it immediately becomes “tactical”.
There is a difference between military specification (mil-spec) or commercial paracord.
TERMINOLOGY
“550” – refers to the minimum weight of the cord’s rated breaking strength, measured in pounds (lbs.)
TYPE III – originally one of the six types of paracord to the mil-spec standard. Designates a 7-strand inner core for commercial paracord and a 7 to 9 strand inner core for mil-spec paracord
MIL-C-5040H – the complete specification for military-use paracord
Sheath – the outer jacket of the paracord; can be nylon or polyester
Inner Core (or kern) – collectively refers to the individual twisted yarn strands within the center of the sheath
OUTER
At a glance, the difference between the genuine mil-spec cord and the commercial cord is marginal. The minimum breaking strength of both types of paracord is rated at 550 lbs.
Genuine mil-spec paracord only comes in select natural colors while the color options are endless with commercial paracord. Genuine paracord comes in black, coyote brown, white, tan, foliage (or camo) green, OD green, and orange
Genuine mil-spec paracord is 100% nylon, both the sheath and the inner core, because nylon is rot and mildew resistant which makes it a great all-weather material. Commercial grade paracord can also come in 100% nylon, or with a polyester sheath and nylon core. The polyester sheath doesn’t have as smooth a texture as a nylon sheath nor does it stretch as much as nylon. It does however have good rot/mildew resistance, is very close to nylon in strength when a steady force is applied, and is generally less expensive.
INNER
An easy way to tell the two types of 550 cord apart is by cutting into it and looking at the inner core, also known as the kern. In commercial Type III paracord, there are generally 7 individual strands and each strand may have a 2-ply or 3-ply braid, or twist. In mil-spec paracord, you will always find a 3-ply twist on the individual strands, of which there may be 7 to 9 of the strands, depending on the manufacturer.
In mil-spec paracord, you’ll find that one of the strands is color-coded whereas the others are all white. This is done by the manufacturers to meet the MIL-C-5040H standard by identifying the manufacturer, so the colors you see here will vary by manufacturer
Genuine mil-spec paracord will often be slightly thicker than commercial paracord because of its 3-ply twists on the inner strands, compared to commerical paracord’s 2-ply twists, as well as the fact that the mil-spec paracord can have up to 9 inner strands. The mil-spec cord measures closure to 4 mm (5/32 inch) while commercial cord is often closer to 3mm.
Hopefully the above information can help you spot false advertisers and make informed choices. Some people like to make the analogy of comparing brand name cereal to the store brand cereal…do you want Honey Nut Cheerios or Toasted O’s of Honey? At the end of the day, only you know what you want in terms of color variety, price, the intended use of the paracord, and whether it’s important to you or your organization that it meets the mil-spec standard.
Either way, ParaVival.com has you covered, from the government agency or military organization looking for genuine MIL-C-5040H TYPE III Paracord down to the crafter or outdoor enthusiast needing some quality Commercial Paracord!
7-strand 550 Type III paracord was the original paracord used by the US Military and it continues to be popular. It has a diameter of about 4.5 mm (3/16"). Most 550 paracord is made in the USA but there are some from overseas manufacturers.
7-strand 550 paracord comes in two basic styles:
1. Nylon sheath and nylon cord
2. Polyester sheath and nylon cord
In both cases the 7 core strands are nylon and they provide the cord's strength. The two varieties have a little different feel and they respond differently when being joined or otherwise manipulated. Both types have a 550 lb breaking strength rating.
650 Coreless
There is also a type of cord that does not have the 7 internal strands that provide the core strength. 650 coreless cord is flat, hollow, having a sheath but no internal strands. Therefore it is not as strong as regular paracord. The sheath is made of nylon and many people have found applications where is it useful. The 650 refers to the size of the cord - it is not the breaking strength.
425 Tactical Paracord
Cord that is smaller than regular 550 is often referred to as "tactical." Since it is smaller, it is easier to carry, include in survival kits and/or to conceal.
425 Tactical Paracord has a diameter of approximately 3mm or 1/8" and a test strength of 425 lbs. The 3 inner strands and the outer sheath are 100% nylon giving it excellent strength as well as UV, mold and mildew resistance.
275 Tactical Paracord
275 tactical paracord has a diameter of about 2.5mm. It has a strength rating of 275 pounds. This cord is considerably smaller than 550 paracord and is usuful when making smaller items or items where not as much strength is needed.
Type 1 Paracord
This cord has a larger diameter than Micro Cord but smaller than 275 Tactical Paracord. It is approximately 1.85 mm or 1/14 inch.
Micro and Nano Cord
Micro cord is 1.18 mm and nano cord is 0.75 mm.
Here is the tensile strength of 550 Paracord:
Outside Sheath - 305 lbs
Inner Strand - 35 lbs each x 7 strands
---------------------------------
Total Strength - 550 lbs
It's important to understand the limitations of 550 paracord. An unexperienced individual may, at first glance, see that it can support 550 lbs. and think it would be good for climbing or rapelling. I confess, it has crossed my mind before.
I want to make one thing clear: 550 Paracord IS NOT climbing rope!
Paracord is amazing cordage with limitations but if you know those limitations you can use it to it’s full potential.
Semper Paratus
Check 6
Burn
Monday, January 25, 2016
Self-Defense: Plan A, B, And C
As I was at the range I ran into a Law Enforcement (LE) officer who I’d met there before. He is a federal officer with 20+ years in LE. In the course of our conversation we got on the subject of improvised or unusual weapons. I told him my son has a “samurai sword” next to his bed. It’s a replica of course but it is sharp. My friend told me a story he had read about a woman defending herself with a similar sword. I looked up the article.
Indy Star October 10, 2015
“When a man broke into Karen Dolley’s home on Thursday night, her training in medieval combat came in handy. So did her sword.
The 43-year-old woman said she awoke around midnight to the voice of a man in her house near 10th Street and Emerson Avenue on Indianapolis' Eastside.
She leapt out of bed, turned on the lights and saw him standing in her living room, she said. Then her instincts kicked in.
Dolley, standing 5-foot-6, said she immediately attacked, punching him about 10 times and cornering him in her bedroom.
She reached for her gun in a nearby drawer, but she accidentally opened the wrong drawer during the chaos of the moment, so her gun wasn’t there.
She reached for her backup weapon, a Japanese-styled sword called ninjato, which she keeps near her bed. Her intruder crouched in the bedroom as she held him at sword-point until police arrived, she said.
She called 911 and police arrived within two minutes, she said.
Police say Jacob Wessel, 30, of Greenwood, was arrested after forcing his way through the house's backdoor. Wessel, standing at 5-foot-10, was later charged with residential entry, a Level 6 felony…
…When Dolley called police, she said she was in control of the situation, but there was a brief scare when the intruder reached his hand into a pocket. That's when Dolley applied more pressure into the sword and told him to stop moving.
“I’m really, really glad I didn’t have to do anything more,” Dolley said. “I know I could do it, but I don’t want to do that.”
Wessel was sent to the hospital because he was high on an unknown substance, according to police reports.
He actually apologized on his way out, Dolley said. Now, Dolley is only upset that the intruder ruined her sleep and angered her cat.
“At the end of the day, I’m glad to know that even if I wake up in the middle of the night, I’m not going down without a fight,” Dolley said.”
This is a perfect example of fight or flight instincts. Not printed above was the comment from a self-defense school who advised people to get away first and fight only if you have no choice. I tend to agree with that philosophy. This woman jumped right in to defend herself and her home. I’m not sure of her motivation for being so aggressive but whatever the reason, if confronted with a situation where you feel you need to fight, do as she did. Before the burglar could even react, it seems she was on him. She smacked him and probably just stunned him because of her aggression. It doesn’t sound like she really did much damage but the shock of being attacked may have given her the time to get a weapon. I would not recommend a sword but apparently she had some real experience and training with this weapon so for her it was not a problem. As I said before, flight is always better than fight. Risk is risk. The more you can eliminate risk to bodily harm the better.
But I do like her attitude toward self-defense. She was trained in more than one weapon and had them available. She also had a Plan B. In the stress and pressure of the fight she opened the wrong drawer. That is a very real act that can and will happen in a fight. Instead of rifling through other drawers, she changed her OODA Loop position and grabbed a different weapon. All of this was after a physical altercation. So actually the gun was Plan B and the sword was Plan C. The versatility of these options is what we need to have in our defense plans. Seldom does anything go exactly as we’d planned so additional plans are necessary. Training in more than one area of self-defense is always good for versatile defense plan.
Improvised weapons are always available but we have to have that mind set. A frying pan, a baseball bat, a fireplace poker, or a kitchen knife can all be used as a weapon. There would be nothing wrong with walking through your house and observing what is there that can be used as a weapon in a pinch. Grabbing those items and practicing on a pillow or punching bag would be a good idea. Pre-positioning weapons would also be a good idea. Remember safety in this especially with children. A unsecure gun or knife will not be any good if your child, or visiting child, gets to it. The likelihood of actually having to use these weapons are slim but if you experience this small percentage you would want a way to defend yourself.
Remember that your gun is not your primary weapon. It is number 3. Number one is your mind.
2 is your body. Learn vulnerable points of the body that you can strike to cause damage. One you cause damage, cause more damage until you feel you can turn your back on your assailant. One they are no longer a threat, stop. You may have to account for your actions in a court and you need to be justified in what you do. If you can't "fight to your gun", then you're missing the most critical training you'll ever need - yes, even more important than getting that tight shot group down at the range. Want to test this theory? Get a training weapon, trainer gun or airsoft, (do NOT use a real gun!), and have someone hit you with cushions or improvise foam rubber “strikers”. Then try to draw your practice gun or get to it. You may find you can’t do it. Often fighting comes before the draw. Get that training. I recommend Target Focus Training (http://www.targetfocustraining.com/). You do not need years of martial arts training but some training and practice is required.
As with the above article Karen used several weapons that she was trained in to defend herself. This should be your mindset.
Semper Paratus
Check 6
Burn
Indy Star October 10, 2015
“When a man broke into Karen Dolley’s home on Thursday night, her training in medieval combat came in handy. So did her sword.
The 43-year-old woman said she awoke around midnight to the voice of a man in her house near 10th Street and Emerson Avenue on Indianapolis' Eastside.
She leapt out of bed, turned on the lights and saw him standing in her living room, she said. Then her instincts kicked in.
Dolley, standing 5-foot-6, said she immediately attacked, punching him about 10 times and cornering him in her bedroom.
She reached for her gun in a nearby drawer, but she accidentally opened the wrong drawer during the chaos of the moment, so her gun wasn’t there.
She reached for her backup weapon, a Japanese-styled sword called ninjato, which she keeps near her bed. Her intruder crouched in the bedroom as she held him at sword-point until police arrived, she said.
She called 911 and police arrived within two minutes, she said.
Police say Jacob Wessel, 30, of Greenwood, was arrested after forcing his way through the house's backdoor. Wessel, standing at 5-foot-10, was later charged with residential entry, a Level 6 felony…
…When Dolley called police, she said she was in control of the situation, but there was a brief scare when the intruder reached his hand into a pocket. That's when Dolley applied more pressure into the sword and told him to stop moving.
“I’m really, really glad I didn’t have to do anything more,” Dolley said. “I know I could do it, but I don’t want to do that.”
Wessel was sent to the hospital because he was high on an unknown substance, according to police reports.
He actually apologized on his way out, Dolley said. Now, Dolley is only upset that the intruder ruined her sleep and angered her cat.
“At the end of the day, I’m glad to know that even if I wake up in the middle of the night, I’m not going down without a fight,” Dolley said.”
This is a perfect example of fight or flight instincts. Not printed above was the comment from a self-defense school who advised people to get away first and fight only if you have no choice. I tend to agree with that philosophy. This woman jumped right in to defend herself and her home. I’m not sure of her motivation for being so aggressive but whatever the reason, if confronted with a situation where you feel you need to fight, do as she did. Before the burglar could even react, it seems she was on him. She smacked him and probably just stunned him because of her aggression. It doesn’t sound like she really did much damage but the shock of being attacked may have given her the time to get a weapon. I would not recommend a sword but apparently she had some real experience and training with this weapon so for her it was not a problem. As I said before, flight is always better than fight. Risk is risk. The more you can eliminate risk to bodily harm the better.
But I do like her attitude toward self-defense. She was trained in more than one weapon and had them available. She also had a Plan B. In the stress and pressure of the fight she opened the wrong drawer. That is a very real act that can and will happen in a fight. Instead of rifling through other drawers, she changed her OODA Loop position and grabbed a different weapon. All of this was after a physical altercation. So actually the gun was Plan B and the sword was Plan C. The versatility of these options is what we need to have in our defense plans. Seldom does anything go exactly as we’d planned so additional plans are necessary. Training in more than one area of self-defense is always good for versatile defense plan.
Improvised weapons are always available but we have to have that mind set. A frying pan, a baseball bat, a fireplace poker, or a kitchen knife can all be used as a weapon. There would be nothing wrong with walking through your house and observing what is there that can be used as a weapon in a pinch. Grabbing those items and practicing on a pillow or punching bag would be a good idea. Pre-positioning weapons would also be a good idea. Remember safety in this especially with children. A unsecure gun or knife will not be any good if your child, or visiting child, gets to it. The likelihood of actually having to use these weapons are slim but if you experience this small percentage you would want a way to defend yourself.
Remember that your gun is not your primary weapon. It is number 3. Number one is your mind.
2 is your body. Learn vulnerable points of the body that you can strike to cause damage. One you cause damage, cause more damage until you feel you can turn your back on your assailant. One they are no longer a threat, stop. You may have to account for your actions in a court and you need to be justified in what you do. If you can't "fight to your gun", then you're missing the most critical training you'll ever need - yes, even more important than getting that tight shot group down at the range. Want to test this theory? Get a training weapon, trainer gun or airsoft, (do NOT use a real gun!), and have someone hit you with cushions or improvise foam rubber “strikers”. Then try to draw your practice gun or get to it. You may find you can’t do it. Often fighting comes before the draw. Get that training. I recommend Target Focus Training (http://www.targetfocustraining.com/). You do not need years of martial arts training but some training and practice is required.
As with the above article Karen used several weapons that she was trained in to defend herself. This should be your mindset.
Semper Paratus
Check 6
Burn
Sunday, January 24, 2016
Privacy: Encryption and "Lazy" Law Enforcement
The FBI says its investigation into the San Bernardino shooting has been stymied by encryption.
In addition to not finding a computer hard drive allegedly used by the suspects, the FBI cannot break the encryption code protecting two cell phones, according to David Bowdich Assistant Director in Charge of the FBI Los Angeles Field Office.
Following the San Bernardino shooting the FBI launched a frontal assault on the idea that people have a right to protect their personal data with encryption.
The FBI argued tech companies offering end-to-end encryption are hindering law enforcement. Law enforcement (LE) told lawmakers the companies must change their business model in order to fight terrorism and criminals.
I know that LE looks upon this as a bad thing. It hinders their job to protect us. But so does the second, first, and fourth amendments. What this means is law enforcement must work harder. Many in that fight against crime and terrorism see these rights as hindering to their work. Obviously they are. I say to that "Tough!" Stop being so lazy! Some in law enforcement want it easy. These are slackers who think that to do their work they should have easy access to everything. That is a fallacy. Those who think that way should get a different job. It's not supposed to be easy! As I've said many times on this site I think the U.S. has the best, most experienced, better trained, and most ethical law enforcement members than anyone in the world. The top brass and the civilians that are supposed to support the real officers in the field often find votes more important than liberty and our Constitution. The real test and challenge of any peace officer is to catch the bad guys and keep our God-given rights intact. It's possible and it happens everyday. Tell the LE "upper elite" that you do not want to trample the rights of those you have sworn to protect.
ISIS now has developed their own encrypted app. This tells me that no matter what laws you enact criminals and terrorists will find a way around it.
The FBI and the Justice Department are arguing against protections afforded by the Fourth Amendment. They are essentially calling for a return of writs of assistance used prior to the American Revolution.
Writs of assistance were court orders authorizing customs officers to conduct general and non-specific searches of premises for contraband. The exact nature and location of the contraband did not need to be specified.
The writs were introduced by the British under rules for commerce in Massachusetts in 1751 to enforce its Acts of Trade. The colonists argued writs represented a violation of natural rights. Opposition to them played an important role in the rebellion against British rule and ultimately the Revolutionary War.
We need to fight for our Constitution. Law enforcement must stop their attack on the very document they swear to uphold! My thought is that LE should stop whining, get in there and do their job! Most LE are very good at what they do regardless of the roadblocks put before them. It's the bureaucrat and the politician who are soft and want the easy way to money and fame. LE must be very good to be successful because evil is very, very good. Most LE are up to the task.
Let your representatives in Washington know you want your privacy in tact. Tell them LE must work harder to be better to do their job without trampling our Constitution.
This also means that encryption works. For the average U.S. Citizen this means that our privacy is still alive. Use encryption and protect your privacy.
Semper Paratus
Check 6
Burn
In addition to not finding a computer hard drive allegedly used by the suspects, the FBI cannot break the encryption code protecting two cell phones, according to David Bowdich Assistant Director in Charge of the FBI Los Angeles Field Office.
Following the San Bernardino shooting the FBI launched a frontal assault on the idea that people have a right to protect their personal data with encryption.
The FBI argued tech companies offering end-to-end encryption are hindering law enforcement. Law enforcement (LE) told lawmakers the companies must change their business model in order to fight terrorism and criminals.
I know that LE looks upon this as a bad thing. It hinders their job to protect us. But so does the second, first, and fourth amendments. What this means is law enforcement must work harder. Many in that fight against crime and terrorism see these rights as hindering to their work. Obviously they are. I say to that "Tough!" Stop being so lazy! Some in law enforcement want it easy. These are slackers who think that to do their work they should have easy access to everything. That is a fallacy. Those who think that way should get a different job. It's not supposed to be easy! As I've said many times on this site I think the U.S. has the best, most experienced, better trained, and most ethical law enforcement members than anyone in the world. The top brass and the civilians that are supposed to support the real officers in the field often find votes more important than liberty and our Constitution. The real test and challenge of any peace officer is to catch the bad guys and keep our God-given rights intact. It's possible and it happens everyday. Tell the LE "upper elite" that you do not want to trample the rights of those you have sworn to protect.
ISIS now has developed their own encrypted app. This tells me that no matter what laws you enact criminals and terrorists will find a way around it.
The FBI and the Justice Department are arguing against protections afforded by the Fourth Amendment. They are essentially calling for a return of writs of assistance used prior to the American Revolution.
Writs of assistance were court orders authorizing customs officers to conduct general and non-specific searches of premises for contraband. The exact nature and location of the contraband did not need to be specified.
The writs were introduced by the British under rules for commerce in Massachusetts in 1751 to enforce its Acts of Trade. The colonists argued writs represented a violation of natural rights. Opposition to them played an important role in the rebellion against British rule and ultimately the Revolutionary War.
We need to fight for our Constitution. Law enforcement must stop their attack on the very document they swear to uphold! My thought is that LE should stop whining, get in there and do their job! Most LE are very good at what they do regardless of the roadblocks put before them. It's the bureaucrat and the politician who are soft and want the easy way to money and fame. LE must be very good to be successful because evil is very, very good. Most LE are up to the task.
Let your representatives in Washington know you want your privacy in tact. Tell them LE must work harder to be better to do their job without trampling our Constitution.
This also means that encryption works. For the average U.S. Citizen this means that our privacy is still alive. Use encryption and protect your privacy.
Semper Paratus
Check 6
Burn
Saturday, January 23, 2016
Canadian Tragedy and Why Laws Don't Protect Anyone!
Canada just had a shooting tragedy. Our prayers are with those who lost friends or family. You may, or may not, hear American politicians talk about more gun laws in the U.S. Often they don't let a tragedy go by without using it for their agenda.
The next step for Canadian gun laws is basically confiscation. There is little else that has not already been done. Even confiscation will not work. The National Rifle Association (NRA) would have you believe that guns stop murders. The gun control lobby would have you believe that gun control reduces murders. They are both wrong.
Gun bans have always had the same effect: none. They do not create a sustained period of increased murders, nor do they reduce the rate of homicides. They do slow down GUN violence, not violence. They slow down GUN homicide, not homicide. Makes sense doesn't it?
The pro-gun crowd is screaming that gun bans cause crime. At least this is grounded in reality. Typically, there is a spike in murders immediately after a ban, but it is short lived.
Gun control is designed to stop people from killing each other, at least that’s what we are always told. Let’s take a look at the data:
United Kingdom: The UK banned handguns in 1996. From 1990 until the ban was enacted, the homicide rate fluctuated between 10.9 and 13 homicides per million. After the ban was enacted, homicides trended up until they reached a peak of 18.0 in 2003. Since 2003, which incidentally was about the time the British government flooded the country with 20,000 more cops, the homicide rate has fallen to 11.1 in 2010. In other words, the 15-year experiment in a handgun ban has achieved absolutely nothing.
Ireland: Ireland banned firearms in 1972. Ireland’s murder rate was fairly static going all the way back to 1945. In that period, it fluctuated between 0.1 and 0.6 per 100,000 people. Immediately after the ban, the murder rate shot up to 1.6 per 100,000 people in 1975. It then dropped back down to 0.4. It has trended up, reaching 1.4 in 2007.
Australia: Australia enacted its gun ban in 1996. Murders have run flat, seeing only a small spike after the ban and then returning almost immediately to preban numbers. It is currently trending down, but is within the fluctuations exhibited in other nations.
Plain and simple. Gun control has no significant impact on murder rates. Removing firearms does not typically create massive lawlessness. It is a moot point. These figures aren’t a secret. Why would the governments of these nations want a disarmed populace? Russia recently relaxed its firearms laws. For the first time in recent memory, a Russian citizen can carry a firearm. The prohibited items speak volumes about what a government’s motive behind disarming the population is. Russia has allowed "smoothbore long barrelled guns, pistols, revolvers, and other firearms, as well as Tasers, and devices equipped with teargas.” That’s almost everything, what is still banned? Rifles. So the Russian government has made it clear that the real objective is to remove rifles from civilian hands. The reasoning is pretty clear: you need rifles to overthrow a government.
We have a society that panders to the basest desires and instincts. One of those is violence. We live in a society where women are given dirty looks for breastfeeding in a restaurant, while over their heads on the wall-mounted television plays a movie that graphically depicts someone being tortured to death. We are desensitized to violence, and we have a generation of people that do not have the coping skills necessary to deal with reality.
If you want to change violence and murder, change hearts and minds. Change people. Those guns won't revolt and start killing on their own.
Australia seems to be the model according to current politicians. Australia do not view guns as this God given right. America came to be through the use of guns. Our Constitution points out that right.
If we want to do something that "makes sense", then let's do it. But what has been done in the past, and by other countries, does not work.
A "gun free zone" is just a free fire zone. Don't we deserve to have our guns and safety too? Haven't people fought and died for that?
My home and property is not a free fire zone. It is a return fire zone. What is yours?
Semper Paratus
Check 6
Burn
The next step for Canadian gun laws is basically confiscation. There is little else that has not already been done. Even confiscation will not work. The National Rifle Association (NRA) would have you believe that guns stop murders. The gun control lobby would have you believe that gun control reduces murders. They are both wrong.
Gun bans have always had the same effect: none. They do not create a sustained period of increased murders, nor do they reduce the rate of homicides. They do slow down GUN violence, not violence. They slow down GUN homicide, not homicide. Makes sense doesn't it?
The pro-gun crowd is screaming that gun bans cause crime. At least this is grounded in reality. Typically, there is a spike in murders immediately after a ban, but it is short lived.
Gun control is designed to stop people from killing each other, at least that’s what we are always told. Let’s take a look at the data:
United Kingdom: The UK banned handguns in 1996. From 1990 until the ban was enacted, the homicide rate fluctuated between 10.9 and 13 homicides per million. After the ban was enacted, homicides trended up until they reached a peak of 18.0 in 2003. Since 2003, which incidentally was about the time the British government flooded the country with 20,000 more cops, the homicide rate has fallen to 11.1 in 2010. In other words, the 15-year experiment in a handgun ban has achieved absolutely nothing.
Ireland: Ireland banned firearms in 1972. Ireland’s murder rate was fairly static going all the way back to 1945. In that period, it fluctuated between 0.1 and 0.6 per 100,000 people. Immediately after the ban, the murder rate shot up to 1.6 per 100,000 people in 1975. It then dropped back down to 0.4. It has trended up, reaching 1.4 in 2007.
Australia: Australia enacted its gun ban in 1996. Murders have run flat, seeing only a small spike after the ban and then returning almost immediately to preban numbers. It is currently trending down, but is within the fluctuations exhibited in other nations.
Plain and simple. Gun control has no significant impact on murder rates. Removing firearms does not typically create massive lawlessness. It is a moot point. These figures aren’t a secret. Why would the governments of these nations want a disarmed populace? Russia recently relaxed its firearms laws. For the first time in recent memory, a Russian citizen can carry a firearm. The prohibited items speak volumes about what a government’s motive behind disarming the population is. Russia has allowed "smoothbore long barrelled guns, pistols, revolvers, and other firearms, as well as Tasers, and devices equipped with teargas.” That’s almost everything, what is still banned? Rifles. So the Russian government has made it clear that the real objective is to remove rifles from civilian hands. The reasoning is pretty clear: you need rifles to overthrow a government.
We have a society that panders to the basest desires and instincts. One of those is violence. We live in a society where women are given dirty looks for breastfeeding in a restaurant, while over their heads on the wall-mounted television plays a movie that graphically depicts someone being tortured to death. We are desensitized to violence, and we have a generation of people that do not have the coping skills necessary to deal with reality.
If you want to change violence and murder, change hearts and minds. Change people. Those guns won't revolt and start killing on their own.
Australia seems to be the model according to current politicians. Australia do not view guns as this God given right. America came to be through the use of guns. Our Constitution points out that right.
If we want to do something that "makes sense", then let's do it. But what has been done in the past, and by other countries, does not work.
A "gun free zone" is just a free fire zone. Don't we deserve to have our guns and safety too? Haven't people fought and died for that?
My home and property is not a free fire zone. It is a return fire zone. What is yours?
Semper Paratus
Check 6
Burn
Friday, January 22, 2016
The OODA Loop and You-John Boyd's Birthday
As I was teaching my kids to drive I would tell them about looking ahead. Trying to see potential problems so that you can act instead of reacting. This is something that is even discussed in scripture:
26 And the Messiah cometh in the fulness of time, that he may redeem the children of men from the fall. And because that they are redeemed from the fall they have become free forever, knowing good from evil; to act for themselves and not to be acted upon, save it be by the punishment of the law at the great and last day, according to the commandments which God hath given. 2 Nephi 2:26
This scripture means to me, loosely, to be able to prepare by doing good things so that your consequences will be good instead of bad.
The OODA Loop teaches that if you break a person’s loop, it will give you time to act as they react.
Called the OODA Loop, the model outlines a four-point decision loop that supports quick, effective and proactive decision-making. The four stages are:
1. Observe – collect current information from as many sources as practically possible.
2. Orient – analyze this information, and use it to update your current reality.
3. Decide – determine a course of action.
4. Act – follow through on your decision.
You continue to cycle through the OODA Loop by observing the results of your actions, seeing whether you've achieved the results you intended, reviewing and revising your initial decision, and moving to your next action.
This information can be used in many, many scenarios. But this is a blog focusing on security and self-defense.
The only way to shorten your own OODA Loop is through training, this is known as conditioned reflex or muscle memory. This is why malfunction drills are important in firearms training. If you can work them into your practice sessions, you will know how to act when they occur at the “moment of truth”. By performing drills like these throughout your firearms training sessions, you will begin to perform them as second nature, which will essentially shorten their phase in the OODA Loop.
When it comes to fighting for your life, it is essential to practice and hone the simplest and most natural “techniques” or movements through constant repetition until they become instinctive as opposed to reactive. Then when those techniques are performed in a real world scenario, they will most certainly be extremely effective. Think of the old adage in this case: “Action is faster than reaction.”
Simply put, the untrained will have slower phases of the OODA Loop. This can often be seen at shooting matches when seasoned shooters perform the “tap-rack-bang” drill while the novices may simply stare at a non-working firearm.
In self-defense, something as simple as moving “off the X”, or stepping to the side of your previous location, will start your attacker or opponents Loop over giving you time to act.
I write about this usually annually because I feel it is an important part of training and may be overlooked by some instructors or schools.
Of course, while this is Loop is taking place, the situation may be changing. It is sometimes necessary to cancel a planned action in order to meet the changes. This decision cycle is thus known as the OODA loop. John Boyd emphasized that this decision cycle is the central mechanism enabling adaptation and is therefore critical to survival.
Boyd theorized that large organizations such as corporations, governments, or militaries possessed a hierarchy of OODA loops at tactical strategic levels.
John Boyd enlisted in the Army after High School in WWII. He attended the University of Iowa and graduated with a BA in economics. Later he received a BA from Georgia Tech in engineering. He flew F-86 jets in Korea. He was then assigned to the Air Force’s Weapons School where he was the head of the Academic Section. He was dubbed "Forty Second Boyd" for his standing bet as an instructor pilot that beginning from a position of disadvantage, he could defeat any opposing pilot in air combat maneuvering in less than 40 seconds. He developed the OODA Loop theory, among other theories, for pilots in combat.
Former Commandant of the Marine Corps, General Charles C. Krulak is quoted as saying "The Iraqi army collapsed morally and intellectually under the onslaught of American and Coalition forces. John Boyd was an architect of that victory as surely as if he'd commanded a fighter wing or a maneuver division in the desert."
He was born on January 23, 1927 and passed away in 1997. He is buried with honors in Arlington National Cemetery.
Semper Paratus
Check 6
Burn
26 And the Messiah cometh in the fulness of time, that he may redeem the children of men from the fall. And because that they are redeemed from the fall they have become free forever, knowing good from evil; to act for themselves and not to be acted upon, save it be by the punishment of the law at the great and last day, according to the commandments which God hath given. 2 Nephi 2:26
This scripture means to me, loosely, to be able to prepare by doing good things so that your consequences will be good instead of bad.
The OODA Loop teaches that if you break a person’s loop, it will give you time to act as they react.
Called the OODA Loop, the model outlines a four-point decision loop that supports quick, effective and proactive decision-making. The four stages are:
1. Observe – collect current information from as many sources as practically possible.
2. Orient – analyze this information, and use it to update your current reality.
3. Decide – determine a course of action.
4. Act – follow through on your decision.
You continue to cycle through the OODA Loop by observing the results of your actions, seeing whether you've achieved the results you intended, reviewing and revising your initial decision, and moving to your next action.
This information can be used in many, many scenarios. But this is a blog focusing on security and self-defense.
The only way to shorten your own OODA Loop is through training, this is known as conditioned reflex or muscle memory. This is why malfunction drills are important in firearms training. If you can work them into your practice sessions, you will know how to act when they occur at the “moment of truth”. By performing drills like these throughout your firearms training sessions, you will begin to perform them as second nature, which will essentially shorten their phase in the OODA Loop.
When it comes to fighting for your life, it is essential to practice and hone the simplest and most natural “techniques” or movements through constant repetition until they become instinctive as opposed to reactive. Then when those techniques are performed in a real world scenario, they will most certainly be extremely effective. Think of the old adage in this case: “Action is faster than reaction.”
Simply put, the untrained will have slower phases of the OODA Loop. This can often be seen at shooting matches when seasoned shooters perform the “tap-rack-bang” drill while the novices may simply stare at a non-working firearm.
In self-defense, something as simple as moving “off the X”, or stepping to the side of your previous location, will start your attacker or opponents Loop over giving you time to act.
I write about this usually annually because I feel it is an important part of training and may be overlooked by some instructors or schools.
Of course, while this is Loop is taking place, the situation may be changing. It is sometimes necessary to cancel a planned action in order to meet the changes. This decision cycle is thus known as the OODA loop. John Boyd emphasized that this decision cycle is the central mechanism enabling adaptation and is therefore critical to survival.
Boyd theorized that large organizations such as corporations, governments, or militaries possessed a hierarchy of OODA loops at tactical strategic levels.
John Boyd enlisted in the Army after High School in WWII. He attended the University of Iowa and graduated with a BA in economics. Later he received a BA from Georgia Tech in engineering. He flew F-86 jets in Korea. He was then assigned to the Air Force’s Weapons School where he was the head of the Academic Section. He was dubbed "Forty Second Boyd" for his standing bet as an instructor pilot that beginning from a position of disadvantage, he could defeat any opposing pilot in air combat maneuvering in less than 40 seconds. He developed the OODA Loop theory, among other theories, for pilots in combat.
Former Commandant of the Marine Corps, General Charles C. Krulak is quoted as saying "The Iraqi army collapsed morally and intellectually under the onslaught of American and Coalition forces. John Boyd was an architect of that victory as surely as if he'd commanded a fighter wing or a maneuver division in the desert."
He was born on January 23, 1927 and passed away in 1997. He is buried with honors in Arlington National Cemetery.
Semper Paratus
Check 6
Burn
Carrying At Church
I don’t want to be misconstrued as a slacker. I do not want this article to sound critical or “…commanded in all things…” type of slothful. I fear that it may come out this way but I will plunge ahead.
May I also be a wimp and say that I consider myself a member in good standing of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. I think I’m a good Mormon. My family dates back to the early restoration of the Church, all the way through the crossing of the plains. I also feel that my testimony is strong and growing. I am very active in the Church. Now that I’ve told you what a fine fellow I am you won’t misjudge me as an apostate.(tongue in cheek) This could be a sensitive subject that may get me in trouble with readers because it can be viewed as rationalization or justifying my actions. I hope I can put across the way I think and feel without being seen as someone who is trying to get around a policy. Here goes.
I have been a Bishop in the Church and I feel I know a little bit about the Church’s Handbook 1 and 2. Handbook 2 is online for all to use and read. Handbook 1: Stake Presidents and Bishops says:
“This handbook outlines the general responsibilities of stake presidents and bishops and provides detailed information about policies and procedures.”
Handbook 2: Administering the Church says:
“This handbook is a guide for members of ward and stake councils.”
“This handbook has been prepared solely for use by general and local Church officers to administer the affairs of the Church.”
“These instructions can facilitate revelation if they are used to provide an understanding of principles, policies, and procedures to apply while seeking the guidance of the Spirit.”
These are only portions of the introduction but I believe it explains the way to use these Handbooks.
One of the things I’ve noticed in these Handbooks is the use of the verbs:
Should - must; ought (used to indicate duty, propriety, or expediency)
May - Used to express possibility, or advisability
I also know that these Handbooks were not put together haphazardly. Time, inspiration, and legality went in to the use of verbiage.
In Handbook 2 there is a policy of bringing a firearm onto Church property and it says:
“21.2.4 Firearms - Churches are dedicated for the worship of God and as havens from the cares and concerns of the world. The carrying of lethal weapons, concealed or otherwise, within their walls is inappropriate except as required by officers of the law.”
If the Church wanted their policy to read “weapons should not be carried in Church buildings” then that is how it would read. “Should not” would forbid carrying a weapon at Church. I also feel that many things can constitute a weapon and a lethal weapon.
I agree that a weapon is not appropriate in a church of any religion, including an LDS Church. But, and this is where I may be thinking wrong, if I am trained, legally licensed, legally allowed by law, and feel the need, I would carry in a church, LDS or otherwise. I know that in the state of Utah the Church has specifically said “you may not carry”, legally by state law. But in many other states those laws reflect only if the carrier is legally licensed then they may carry in a church. Some states say that if the church, or other public establishment, do not want to allow firearms carried, open or concealed, then they must have appropriate signage. Or, if when someone is found to be armed, and asked to leave the premises, then they must comply by law.
So my feeling is this. I have extensive experience with firearms. I have extensive training, and continue to build upon that training, in firearms. I am licensed legally to carry a weapon in the state in which I reside. The Church I attend does not have any signage indicating that carrying a weapon is not desired in Church buildings. Thus, in spite of my knowledge of the Church’s policy, I carry inside Church buildings. I am not a law enforcement officer.
I have felt for many years that I should do this. Before I knew of the policy, before I was legally allowed, I would carry at Church. I think that was wrong because of the legality. I have since complied with law.
I honestly feel if you feel as I do, and can do so legally, you can choose to carry at Church. I am not giving this as advice, but only as my opinion. I feel also some that have a license have very little training. Just because you can legally carry anywhere your law allows, does not mean you should. I think that you should have adequate training and that means more than one class to get your license, or once in your life time. Shooting is a perishable skill. With time and lack of practice, you may not be able to hit the broad side of a barn! I feel if you take the step to carry a gun you should be responsible enough to become licensed, well trained, and take the time and expense to practice regularly. What is regularly? At least monthly. Although that is really the bare minimum. I practice weekly and I feel that is the bare minimum for me to maintain my 30+ years of training and experience. Monthly will not work for me. Sometimes I miss a week. When I return to the range after missing just a week I know that my weakness will be accuracy and I tend to start to “slap” the trigger. This is just going to the range and actually live fire shooting. There is also dry firing that can and will help immensely with your training program.
I’ve tried to not make this sound like “justification” for my carrying at Church. I’ve also tried to not make this a confession or for someone out there to confirm my feelings or actions. What I do want from this article is to explain my thoughts with someone who might want to carry in a LDS Church. Open carry, if legal where you live, should never be employed at Church in my opinion. If you decide to carry, know your laws where you live. Now you also know the Church’s view of this too. Follow the Spirit. Even pray about your desire to carry at Church. Make sure the answer you receive is really what the Lord would have you do. Don’t try to justify or rationalize your desire. If you still think that you should carry, be legal, get trained, and develop a training program to keep competent.
Again, do not think this is advice, but only what I think is right for me. Find out what is right for you.
Semper Paratus
Check 6
Burn
May I also be a wimp and say that I consider myself a member in good standing of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. I think I’m a good Mormon. My family dates back to the early restoration of the Church, all the way through the crossing of the plains. I also feel that my testimony is strong and growing. I am very active in the Church. Now that I’ve told you what a fine fellow I am you won’t misjudge me as an apostate.(tongue in cheek) This could be a sensitive subject that may get me in trouble with readers because it can be viewed as rationalization or justifying my actions. I hope I can put across the way I think and feel without being seen as someone who is trying to get around a policy. Here goes.
I have been a Bishop in the Church and I feel I know a little bit about the Church’s Handbook 1 and 2. Handbook 2 is online for all to use and read. Handbook 1: Stake Presidents and Bishops says:
“This handbook outlines the general responsibilities of stake presidents and bishops and provides detailed information about policies and procedures.”
Handbook 2: Administering the Church says:
“This handbook is a guide for members of ward and stake councils.”
“This handbook has been prepared solely for use by general and local Church officers to administer the affairs of the Church.”
“These instructions can facilitate revelation if they are used to provide an understanding of principles, policies, and procedures to apply while seeking the guidance of the Spirit.”
These are only portions of the introduction but I believe it explains the way to use these Handbooks.
One of the things I’ve noticed in these Handbooks is the use of the verbs:
Should - must; ought (used to indicate duty, propriety, or expediency)
May - Used to express possibility, or advisability
I also know that these Handbooks were not put together haphazardly. Time, inspiration, and legality went in to the use of verbiage.
In Handbook 2 there is a policy of bringing a firearm onto Church property and it says:
“21.2.4 Firearms - Churches are dedicated for the worship of God and as havens from the cares and concerns of the world. The carrying of lethal weapons, concealed or otherwise, within their walls is inappropriate except as required by officers of the law.”
If the Church wanted their policy to read “weapons should not be carried in Church buildings” then that is how it would read. “Should not” would forbid carrying a weapon at Church. I also feel that many things can constitute a weapon and a lethal weapon.
I agree that a weapon is not appropriate in a church of any religion, including an LDS Church. But, and this is where I may be thinking wrong, if I am trained, legally licensed, legally allowed by law, and feel the need, I would carry in a church, LDS or otherwise. I know that in the state of Utah the Church has specifically said “you may not carry”, legally by state law. But in many other states those laws reflect only if the carrier is legally licensed then they may carry in a church. Some states say that if the church, or other public establishment, do not want to allow firearms carried, open or concealed, then they must have appropriate signage. Or, if when someone is found to be armed, and asked to leave the premises, then they must comply by law.
So my feeling is this. I have extensive experience with firearms. I have extensive training, and continue to build upon that training, in firearms. I am licensed legally to carry a weapon in the state in which I reside. The Church I attend does not have any signage indicating that carrying a weapon is not desired in Church buildings. Thus, in spite of my knowledge of the Church’s policy, I carry inside Church buildings. I am not a law enforcement officer.
I have felt for many years that I should do this. Before I knew of the policy, before I was legally allowed, I would carry at Church. I think that was wrong because of the legality. I have since complied with law.
I honestly feel if you feel as I do, and can do so legally, you can choose to carry at Church. I am not giving this as advice, but only as my opinion. I feel also some that have a license have very little training. Just because you can legally carry anywhere your law allows, does not mean you should. I think that you should have adequate training and that means more than one class to get your license, or once in your life time. Shooting is a perishable skill. With time and lack of practice, you may not be able to hit the broad side of a barn! I feel if you take the step to carry a gun you should be responsible enough to become licensed, well trained, and take the time and expense to practice regularly. What is regularly? At least monthly. Although that is really the bare minimum. I practice weekly and I feel that is the bare minimum for me to maintain my 30+ years of training and experience. Monthly will not work for me. Sometimes I miss a week. When I return to the range after missing just a week I know that my weakness will be accuracy and I tend to start to “slap” the trigger. This is just going to the range and actually live fire shooting. There is also dry firing that can and will help immensely with your training program.
I’ve tried to not make this sound like “justification” for my carrying at Church. I’ve also tried to not make this a confession or for someone out there to confirm my feelings or actions. What I do want from this article is to explain my thoughts with someone who might want to carry in a LDS Church. Open carry, if legal where you live, should never be employed at Church in my opinion. If you decide to carry, know your laws where you live. Now you also know the Church’s view of this too. Follow the Spirit. Even pray about your desire to carry at Church. Make sure the answer you receive is really what the Lord would have you do. Don’t try to justify or rationalize your desire. If you still think that you should carry, be legal, get trained, and develop a training program to keep competent.
Again, do not think this is advice, but only what I think is right for me. Find out what is right for you.
Semper Paratus
Check 6
Burn
Privacy: Webcams
In September of 2013 a college student was arrested in California for hijacking several computers and spying on their owners. Cassidy Wolf, Miss Teen USA, was one of them. She received an anonymous and threatening email. The man who sent the email said he had thousands of pictures of her, including many nude ones, and that he’d been watching her for over a year. He was going to put the pictures all over social media unless she Skyped with him and agreed to do inappropriate things. Cassidy and her parents contacted the FBI who started an investigation leading to the arrest and his pleading guilty and being sentenced to 18 months in prison.
Cassidy said in a interview, “Your bedroom is your most private and intimate space. To think that someone was watching me in my bedroom for a year and had all my most intimate moments, he had conversations I had had with my mom and my brother, and knew everything about my life — someone can have access to all of that by your computer.”
This type of hijacking has been around for some time. If you want to ensure this type of invasion of your privacy does not happen to you, cover your camera. Simply tape a piece of paper over the lens. Better yet, unplug your camera and microphone. You could disconnect your computer or device from the internet. This is a little more difficult because of Wi-Fi although if your router is off, there is not Wi-Fi. Phones are a little more difficult. They can be used to listen quite easily.
How do you protect yourself? Yanking out your phone’s battery is about the only way to interrupt the flow of information if you suspect you are already under surveillance.
As a parent I caution my children all the time. Chances are, they will never be targeted. Some of them have covered their cameras and I think that would be the minimum.
So if you truly want to go off-grid in a hurry, remove the battery. Of course, many modern smartphones, like the iPhone 6 and the Galaxy S6, don’t let you do that. So maybe the movies weren’t exaggerating after all: You may have to smash or ditch that smartphone if you really want to evade surveillance entirely.
Had this been my teen aged daughter, I probably would have done some things frowned upon by our law enforcement.
Getting in the habit of leaving your laptop, ipad, or cell phone in another room may not be a bad practice.
The fact is, it’s sad that we have to do these things, but it’s the price we pay for living in these times. So if you’re reading this article and your computer doesn’t have a piece of paper taped over the camera, please go do it before you forget.
How to increase your webcam safety:
• Ensure you have up to date Internet security software installed. You can also get specialist webcam activity monitoring software (an example would be Zemana AntiLogger, which, as its name implies, also checks for keyboard logging programs, though we cannot vouch for its effectiveness).
• Unplug the camera or cover the lens when not in use; many newer model webcams come with a privacy shield that slides across the lens.
• Look for the camera’s operation light coming on when you’re not using it; this is by no means a failsafe — recent research suggests hackers using special web camera programs may be able to switch off the light.
• If the camera is built-in but you don’t use it, disable it. It’s beyond this article to explain how to do this, but either find a good online tutorial such as “About’s” How to disable a webcam or get someone who knows how to do it disable it for you.
• Don’t locate the camera anywhere where its usage might give away details of your location or provide other valuable information to thieves.
• Don’t do anything in front of a camera that you wouldn’t mind the whole world seeing. Hackers may even be able to access your camera while you’re using it with someone else and record your actions.
• Warn your kids!!! Tell them especially about the point above. Even some of their friends could be recording their behavior and comments, then posting them online. Consider disabling the camera or imposing some restrictions. Also, the elderly can be as vulnerable as kids and sometimes an older generation can be less tech savvy. So care for them as you would your kids. You will know if they are tech savvy or not, many are.
Privacy is a thing that seems to be going away with technology. We must change with the technology to maintain privacy in our lives and homes. Like lack of security, lack of privacy can lead to crime or even violence. To care for yourself and your family be aware and be vigilant.
Semper Paratus
Check 6
Burn
Cassidy said in a interview, “Your bedroom is your most private and intimate space. To think that someone was watching me in my bedroom for a year and had all my most intimate moments, he had conversations I had had with my mom and my brother, and knew everything about my life — someone can have access to all of that by your computer.”
This type of hijacking has been around for some time. If you want to ensure this type of invasion of your privacy does not happen to you, cover your camera. Simply tape a piece of paper over the lens. Better yet, unplug your camera and microphone. You could disconnect your computer or device from the internet. This is a little more difficult because of Wi-Fi although if your router is off, there is not Wi-Fi. Phones are a little more difficult. They can be used to listen quite easily.
How do you protect yourself? Yanking out your phone’s battery is about the only way to interrupt the flow of information if you suspect you are already under surveillance.
As a parent I caution my children all the time. Chances are, they will never be targeted. Some of them have covered their cameras and I think that would be the minimum.
So if you truly want to go off-grid in a hurry, remove the battery. Of course, many modern smartphones, like the iPhone 6 and the Galaxy S6, don’t let you do that. So maybe the movies weren’t exaggerating after all: You may have to smash or ditch that smartphone if you really want to evade surveillance entirely.
Had this been my teen aged daughter, I probably would have done some things frowned upon by our law enforcement.
Getting in the habit of leaving your laptop, ipad, or cell phone in another room may not be a bad practice.
The fact is, it’s sad that we have to do these things, but it’s the price we pay for living in these times. So if you’re reading this article and your computer doesn’t have a piece of paper taped over the camera, please go do it before you forget.
How to increase your webcam safety:
• Ensure you have up to date Internet security software installed. You can also get specialist webcam activity monitoring software (an example would be Zemana AntiLogger, which, as its name implies, also checks for keyboard logging programs, though we cannot vouch for its effectiveness).
• Unplug the camera or cover the lens when not in use; many newer model webcams come with a privacy shield that slides across the lens.
• Look for the camera’s operation light coming on when you’re not using it; this is by no means a failsafe — recent research suggests hackers using special web camera programs may be able to switch off the light.
• If the camera is built-in but you don’t use it, disable it. It’s beyond this article to explain how to do this, but either find a good online tutorial such as “About’s” How to disable a webcam or get someone who knows how to do it disable it for you.
• Don’t locate the camera anywhere where its usage might give away details of your location or provide other valuable information to thieves.
• Don’t do anything in front of a camera that you wouldn’t mind the whole world seeing. Hackers may even be able to access your camera while you’re using it with someone else and record your actions.
• Warn your kids!!! Tell them especially about the point above. Even some of their friends could be recording their behavior and comments, then posting them online. Consider disabling the camera or imposing some restrictions. Also, the elderly can be as vulnerable as kids and sometimes an older generation can be less tech savvy. So care for them as you would your kids. You will know if they are tech savvy or not, many are.
Privacy is a thing that seems to be going away with technology. We must change with the technology to maintain privacy in our lives and homes. Like lack of security, lack of privacy can lead to crime or even violence. To care for yourself and your family be aware and be vigilant.
Semper Paratus
Check 6
Burn
Thursday, January 21, 2016
Build A Basic Gun Cleaning Kit
Keeping your guns clean is part of the battle of shooting better, zero malfunctions, and less wear on your gun. We’ve talked about how to clean a gun but what about your gun cleaning kit? There are many on the market from small, portable kits, to kits that will clean any caliber including shotguns.
Like most things, building something yourself is the best bet.
If I were just starting out I would find a container for my gun cleaning kit first.
A toiletry bag will handle whatever you may need. Remember that it must hold not only your cleaning items but you may want to include a basic maintenance tool kit as well. My bag is portable and not too big but it holds a lot of things. You know the kind of bags I’m talking about. They are for traveling and most of the time used by men. You can find them with one or two zippers. Don’t spend a lot, maybe $10 to $15.
Next would be your cleaning tools. Buying a basic kit is good because you usually get rods and tips and a brush for the rods. Depending on the calibers of the guns you own is what will dictate your caliber specific tools. Remember that handguns, rifles, and shotguns will take their own specific tools.
Solvent and oil is something there is a lot of out there. This is something you need to test and use to find what will work for you and what you like. I myself like CLP Breakfree. CLP stands for “cleans, lubricates, protects.” I first used this product in the 80’s in the military when the military first started to use it. I love it because it is an all-purpose product. There are many other great products out there. Ask people you trust that know guns and test these products yourself.
I also keep a tube of “gun grease”, which is a heavy grease that preserves guns for long term storage. I use this on parts I know I am not going to use in a while.
Cleaning patches and rags. There are different shapes and sizes of these patches. Make sure the patches will fit the calibers of guns you own. For instance large patches won’t go into the barrel of a .22. There are a few different materials these patches come in but I would use cotton as a rule. I know for a fact that I have some .22 patches in my kit right now that are made of a synthetic material. Cotton is still my favorite.
I also keep a couple of cleaning rags in my kit. Usually I reserve one as a basic “pad” to clean guns on. The others I use to clean tools and to wipe excess cleaner.
I keep a few extra “tools” in my kit. Toothpicks, various toothbrushes, a mayo jar lid if I need to soak a part on occasion. Cotton swabs are handy. So is a bore light.
My tool kit contains a small set of punches, a allen wrench set, and a multiple standard and phillips screwdriver set, a small armorers hammer. I keep a small brass bristle wire brush also. If your bore light cannot be used as a regular flashlight then maybe a single AAA flashlight would help too. I use bore mops too. These are caliber sensitive.
This is the basics of a good cleaning kit. There are other specialty items such as bore snakes and products that clean breach to muzzle. There are “oil wipes” that are handy too. There are gun sponges that can be of use. A set of “picks”, like dentist picks, might be helpful.
There are universal kits out there and all-in-one kits too. Take a look at everything out there and maybe even internet reviews, and I am confident you can build a kit better than anything you could buy. Build a kit that will serve you a long time with products you can occasionally replace.
As in all things, be safe when you clean guns. Remember the safety rules and make sure ammo is in another room.
Happy cleaning!
Semper Paratus
Check 6
Burn
Like most things, building something yourself is the best bet.
If I were just starting out I would find a container for my gun cleaning kit first.
A toiletry bag will handle whatever you may need. Remember that it must hold not only your cleaning items but you may want to include a basic maintenance tool kit as well. My bag is portable and not too big but it holds a lot of things. You know the kind of bags I’m talking about. They are for traveling and most of the time used by men. You can find them with one or two zippers. Don’t spend a lot, maybe $10 to $15.
Next would be your cleaning tools. Buying a basic kit is good because you usually get rods and tips and a brush for the rods. Depending on the calibers of the guns you own is what will dictate your caliber specific tools. Remember that handguns, rifles, and shotguns will take their own specific tools.
Solvent and oil is something there is a lot of out there. This is something you need to test and use to find what will work for you and what you like. I myself like CLP Breakfree. CLP stands for “cleans, lubricates, protects.” I first used this product in the 80’s in the military when the military first started to use it. I love it because it is an all-purpose product. There are many other great products out there. Ask people you trust that know guns and test these products yourself.
I also keep a tube of “gun grease”, which is a heavy grease that preserves guns for long term storage. I use this on parts I know I am not going to use in a while.
Cleaning patches and rags. There are different shapes and sizes of these patches. Make sure the patches will fit the calibers of guns you own. For instance large patches won’t go into the barrel of a .22. There are a few different materials these patches come in but I would use cotton as a rule. I know for a fact that I have some .22 patches in my kit right now that are made of a synthetic material. Cotton is still my favorite.
I also keep a couple of cleaning rags in my kit. Usually I reserve one as a basic “pad” to clean guns on. The others I use to clean tools and to wipe excess cleaner.
I keep a few extra “tools” in my kit. Toothpicks, various toothbrushes, a mayo jar lid if I need to soak a part on occasion. Cotton swabs are handy. So is a bore light.
My tool kit contains a small set of punches, a allen wrench set, and a multiple standard and phillips screwdriver set, a small armorers hammer. I keep a small brass bristle wire brush also. If your bore light cannot be used as a regular flashlight then maybe a single AAA flashlight would help too. I use bore mops too. These are caliber sensitive.
This is the basics of a good cleaning kit. There are other specialty items such as bore snakes and products that clean breach to muzzle. There are “oil wipes” that are handy too. There are gun sponges that can be of use. A set of “picks”, like dentist picks, might be helpful.
There are universal kits out there and all-in-one kits too. Take a look at everything out there and maybe even internet reviews, and I am confident you can build a kit better than anything you could buy. Build a kit that will serve you a long time with products you can occasionally replace.
As in all things, be safe when you clean guns. Remember the safety rules and make sure ammo is in another room.
Happy cleaning!
Semper Paratus
Check 6
Burn
Wednesday, January 20, 2016
Do Not Vote For This Scoundrel!
I don’t know if you will ever see on this blog an actual endorsement of any Presidential candidate. I may break and start to push the person I think will do the best job but for now I think I will remain silent. It’s a long way to November. But I will UNendorse someone!
I am a conservative independent. I don’t like the two main parties very much nor do I like the party system very much. I can say that almost every election will find me voting for Republican candidates only because of my conservative views. I have voted for candidates from other parties other than Republican including Democrats. I’ll be honest, the only Dems I’ve voted for were local candidates and it was because I personally knew the people.
Having said all of the above I must in good conscience talk about a candidate I can hardly stand to look at. Hillary Clinton. I believe her to be dishonest, extremely untrustworthy, and generally nasty. I do not know her personally so this only comes from watching her over the years.
I believe her handling of the Benghazi debacle was so very scandalous. She has shown a great failure in leadership and a disregard for military and civilian lives that makes my stomach turn. President Obama had his chance to make right what she did and of course did nothing. So he too is at fault in Benghazi. Secretary Clinton failed miserably in her job as Secretary of State resigning, in my opinion, when things got hot in that position. And now she would like a promotion? I think not.
I am not concerned about her being a woman. I do not think that is even an issue with her seeking the Presidency though many will be stupid enough to vote for her because she is a woman. I believe that is part of the reason President Obama is President. Some voted for him because they wanted the first Black President.
Secretary Clinton also has shown her incompetence in the e-mail scandal that is coming down on her head. Will she ever be held responsible? I hope so, but I have my doubts. As Secretary of State if you don’t understand security, privacy, and confidentiality then I’m not sure how the heck you got the job!
I don’t know the validity of this next subject, it is really hearsay. But I read where Secretary Clinton has a foul mouth. I believe it was a Secret Service agent who said that she would swear at him regularly. Like I said, that may not be true. I suspect it is not because of what I have seen in her. I know, lots of people swear but I make a bad judgement of those who do. Especially those who swear and have an education. I just think that someone who has a foul vocabulary shows their ignorance. My opinion here only.
Please do not endorse this rat of a woman. Please overlook the fact that she is a woman and don’t vote for her only because she is a woman. I hope she does not even get past the primaries but we will see.
She’s a scoundrel who happens to be married to a scoundrel. Our country needs greatness not dishonesty and vulgarity.
Is she worse than other candidates? I think so. No other candidate has scandal following them around closely.
Do not elect Hillary Clinton to any other office!! I beg of you!
Semper Paratus
Check 6
Burn
I am a conservative independent. I don’t like the two main parties very much nor do I like the party system very much. I can say that almost every election will find me voting for Republican candidates only because of my conservative views. I have voted for candidates from other parties other than Republican including Democrats. I’ll be honest, the only Dems I’ve voted for were local candidates and it was because I personally knew the people.
Having said all of the above I must in good conscience talk about a candidate I can hardly stand to look at. Hillary Clinton. I believe her to be dishonest, extremely untrustworthy, and generally nasty. I do not know her personally so this only comes from watching her over the years.
I believe her handling of the Benghazi debacle was so very scandalous. She has shown a great failure in leadership and a disregard for military and civilian lives that makes my stomach turn. President Obama had his chance to make right what she did and of course did nothing. So he too is at fault in Benghazi. Secretary Clinton failed miserably in her job as Secretary of State resigning, in my opinion, when things got hot in that position. And now she would like a promotion? I think not.
I am not concerned about her being a woman. I do not think that is even an issue with her seeking the Presidency though many will be stupid enough to vote for her because she is a woman. I believe that is part of the reason President Obama is President. Some voted for him because they wanted the first Black President.
Secretary Clinton also has shown her incompetence in the e-mail scandal that is coming down on her head. Will she ever be held responsible? I hope so, but I have my doubts. As Secretary of State if you don’t understand security, privacy, and confidentiality then I’m not sure how the heck you got the job!
I don’t know the validity of this next subject, it is really hearsay. But I read where Secretary Clinton has a foul mouth. I believe it was a Secret Service agent who said that she would swear at him regularly. Like I said, that may not be true. I suspect it is not because of what I have seen in her. I know, lots of people swear but I make a bad judgement of those who do. Especially those who swear and have an education. I just think that someone who has a foul vocabulary shows their ignorance. My opinion here only.
Please do not endorse this rat of a woman. Please overlook the fact that she is a woman and don’t vote for her only because she is a woman. I hope she does not even get past the primaries but we will see.
She’s a scoundrel who happens to be married to a scoundrel. Our country needs greatness not dishonesty and vulgarity.
Is she worse than other candidates? I think so. No other candidate has scandal following them around closely.
Do not elect Hillary Clinton to any other office!! I beg of you!
Semper Paratus
Check 6
Burn
Tuesday, January 19, 2016
Delta Force and Charles Beckwith
In the early 80’s I attended a jump school ran by the U.S. Army. It was the beginning of opportunities I had in taking training with many members of special operations. In a few cases I got to know some of these operators quite well. Special operations in the military is a small, close knit, group. Because of my friendship with several of these members I had the chance to become an “adopted brother”. That was the term I heard more than once with these great warriors. I am not one of them, but as part of their support teams I became close to them as part of their “family”.
While taking a combat patrolling course in preparation for a joint mission (JTF) I met an operator who’s call sign is Det Cord. He is now currently working in spec ops as a mission specific instructor. Det Cord swears I saved his marriage. I’m pretty sure he saved his own marriage but he always refers to this perceived debt he owes me. Over the years he and I have kept in touch. His devotion to his family is something I consider amazing. He turned down many opportunities because it would take him away from his family more than he was already away. His determination to become the best warrior he could be was another thing I admire in him. Det Cord told me stories about working with Charles Beckwith on several occasions. He commented on his thoroughness.
On January 22 we will celebrate the birthday and life of Charles Beckwith. He is known as the Father of Delta Force in 1977.
In 1980 he is in the desert at the staging area known as Desert One. Operation Eagle Claw was the operation that Delta Force was staging to free the 52 Iranian hostages.
The operation commander, Colonel Beckwith recommended an abort of the op when he was 1 helicopter short. There were several roadblocks in this op and when it came down to a decision Colonel Beckwith made a decision that is still talked about today in military leadership courses. I doubt I’ll ever be in a similar position but should the pressure mount and those around me possibly hope for compromise, I pray that I would be resolute in my position as he was. Colonel Beckwith’s steadfastness in the presence of indescribable pressure is a behavior leaders at all levels should model. Unfortunately, as the U.S. force prepared to leave, one of the helicopters crashed into a transport aircraft which contained both servicemen and jet fuel. The resulting fire destroyed both aircraft and killed eight servicemen.
I’m not sure that things would not have been worse had the mission been a go, instead of the difficult no go.
Charles Beckwith was a visionary when it came to how to use special operations units. He understood how to use them and set up the current spec ops ideology. He passed away in 1994 but his foresight and vision will be forever felt.
He once said: "I characterize myself as a good American. I believe in John Wayne, the American flag and apple pie. And if that's corny, then I'm wasting your time, because that's the way I feel about it."
Happy birthday Charles Beckwith!
Semper Paratus
Check 6
Burn
While taking a combat patrolling course in preparation for a joint mission (JTF) I met an operator who’s call sign is Det Cord. He is now currently working in spec ops as a mission specific instructor. Det Cord swears I saved his marriage. I’m pretty sure he saved his own marriage but he always refers to this perceived debt he owes me. Over the years he and I have kept in touch. His devotion to his family is something I consider amazing. He turned down many opportunities because it would take him away from his family more than he was already away. His determination to become the best warrior he could be was another thing I admire in him. Det Cord told me stories about working with Charles Beckwith on several occasions. He commented on his thoroughness.
On January 22 we will celebrate the birthday and life of Charles Beckwith. He is known as the Father of Delta Force in 1977.
In 1980 he is in the desert at the staging area known as Desert One. Operation Eagle Claw was the operation that Delta Force was staging to free the 52 Iranian hostages.
The operation commander, Colonel Beckwith recommended an abort of the op when he was 1 helicopter short. There were several roadblocks in this op and when it came down to a decision Colonel Beckwith made a decision that is still talked about today in military leadership courses. I doubt I’ll ever be in a similar position but should the pressure mount and those around me possibly hope for compromise, I pray that I would be resolute in my position as he was. Colonel Beckwith’s steadfastness in the presence of indescribable pressure is a behavior leaders at all levels should model. Unfortunately, as the U.S. force prepared to leave, one of the helicopters crashed into a transport aircraft which contained both servicemen and jet fuel. The resulting fire destroyed both aircraft and killed eight servicemen.
I’m not sure that things would not have been worse had the mission been a go, instead of the difficult no go.
Charles Beckwith was a visionary when it came to how to use special operations units. He understood how to use them and set up the current spec ops ideology. He passed away in 1994 but his foresight and vision will be forever felt.
He once said: "I characterize myself as a good American. I believe in John Wayne, the American flag and apple pie. And if that's corny, then I'm wasting your time, because that's the way I feel about it."
Happy birthday Charles Beckwith!
Semper Paratus
Check 6
Burn
FBI, 9mm and The Caliber Debate
I’ve been asked many times why I like 9mm ammunition over .40 or .45 or really any other caliber of handgun. I usually am very cautious about my answer. I would rather someone do their own research and maybe some trial and error before they decide on a caliber. It really is something I feel is personal. Perhaps a .45 has too much bulk or too much kick that it would be worth to a petite woman. But then again, maybe the same woman could learn to manage the recoil and find a way to conceal a .45. Who’s to say? But I can tell you the reason I like 9mm.
Years ago I wanted a .45. It was really the first handgun I ever go real familiar with, other than a .22 as a kid. I was in the military at a time when you could qualify on a M1911 .45, a S&W Model 15, M15 .38 special revolver, and the Sig Sauer P228, M11, 9mm. I had the opportunity to qualify in all 3 weapons. I thought that a .45 was the way to go! There are many who would agree with me. When I started to carry a gun I thought concealability was the only issue. I was actually carrying illegally, something I strongly advise against. It was a time where carrying a gun was not thought very important by the average civilian. The first gun I carried was a .25 caliber auto, 5 round. It was great to conceal but as I got familiar with the caliber, I realized it did not do what I wanted it to do. As soon as my state offered a concealed carry license I was on board. Anyway, I played around with many different size guns until I decided on the 9mm. It’s only been a few years (late 1980’s for locked-breech autoloaders) since the sub-compact gun has been around. But small, concealable hand guns have been around since the late 1700’s.
In the mid-1980’s the FBI dropped the 9mm cartridge because of an infamous gun battle in Miami-Dade Florida that left several FBI agents dead. The FBI was leaning toward the 10mm and eventually the newer S&W .40 caliber cartridge. They had their reasons at the time but are now going back to the 9mm. The ballistics nowadays between the 9mm and the .40 cal are very close. This is the reason I’ve carried 9mm for years. I like the ballistics, even when the cartridge wasn’t what it is today. I liked the capacity difference, and I liked the weight difference between 9mm and the higher calibers. This has been the 9mm camp claim for years but I actually tested it. My own tests convinced me in 1990 that 9mm was what I needed. I like the difference between the calibers recoil management too. I still do.
These are my reasons:
The 9mm has a softer recoil (remember the pistols are the same size, same barrel length etc.). This leads to shooters getting back onto target faster to deliver more bullets to the bad guys.
The 9mm is a smaller round, which means that the magazine will hold at least a few more cartridges per magazine. This leads to the good guys being able to lob more rounds down range in between magazine changes.
The difference in weight per 100 rounds is:
9mm – 100 rounds 2.63 lbs
.40 – 100 rounds 3.56 lbs
This is a difference of 1 pound per 100 rounds. For me that is significant.
The difference in price is also significant. Add to that 9mm being more common, at least for now, and more available because it is more common gives the 9mm a plus over the .40.
My vote would always be 9mm. I wouldn’t go out and sell my .40’s if I had them, but for those considering a first time carry weapon, consider the above reasons. Don’t just take my word, or even the FBI’s, go out and research. Borrow good guns and shoot quality ammunition and then make your choice.
I think it’s interesting that the military, the FBI, and many other agencies, still use the 9mm.
Semper Paratus
Check 6
Burn
Years ago I wanted a .45. It was really the first handgun I ever go real familiar with, other than a .22 as a kid. I was in the military at a time when you could qualify on a M1911 .45, a S&W Model 15, M15 .38 special revolver, and the Sig Sauer P228, M11, 9mm. I had the opportunity to qualify in all 3 weapons. I thought that a .45 was the way to go! There are many who would agree with me. When I started to carry a gun I thought concealability was the only issue. I was actually carrying illegally, something I strongly advise against. It was a time where carrying a gun was not thought very important by the average civilian. The first gun I carried was a .25 caliber auto, 5 round. It was great to conceal but as I got familiar with the caliber, I realized it did not do what I wanted it to do. As soon as my state offered a concealed carry license I was on board. Anyway, I played around with many different size guns until I decided on the 9mm. It’s only been a few years (late 1980’s for locked-breech autoloaders) since the sub-compact gun has been around. But small, concealable hand guns have been around since the late 1700’s.
In the mid-1980’s the FBI dropped the 9mm cartridge because of an infamous gun battle in Miami-Dade Florida that left several FBI agents dead. The FBI was leaning toward the 10mm and eventually the newer S&W .40 caliber cartridge. They had their reasons at the time but are now going back to the 9mm. The ballistics nowadays between the 9mm and the .40 cal are very close. This is the reason I’ve carried 9mm for years. I like the ballistics, even when the cartridge wasn’t what it is today. I liked the capacity difference, and I liked the weight difference between 9mm and the higher calibers. This has been the 9mm camp claim for years but I actually tested it. My own tests convinced me in 1990 that 9mm was what I needed. I like the difference between the calibers recoil management too. I still do.
These are my reasons:
The 9mm has a softer recoil (remember the pistols are the same size, same barrel length etc.). This leads to shooters getting back onto target faster to deliver more bullets to the bad guys.
The 9mm is a smaller round, which means that the magazine will hold at least a few more cartridges per magazine. This leads to the good guys being able to lob more rounds down range in between magazine changes.
The difference in weight per 100 rounds is:
9mm – 100 rounds 2.63 lbs
.40 – 100 rounds 3.56 lbs
This is a difference of 1 pound per 100 rounds. For me that is significant.
The difference in price is also significant. Add to that 9mm being more common, at least for now, and more available because it is more common gives the 9mm a plus over the .40.
My vote would always be 9mm. I wouldn’t go out and sell my .40’s if I had them, but for those considering a first time carry weapon, consider the above reasons. Don’t just take my word, or even the FBI’s, go out and research. Borrow good guns and shoot quality ammunition and then make your choice.
I think it’s interesting that the military, the FBI, and many other agencies, still use the 9mm.
Semper Paratus
Check 6
Burn
A Rare Entertainment Comment
I very rarely bring up anything on this blog that has nothing to do with guns or preparedness. But I have been a huge Eagles fan since I bought my first Eagles album "On The Border". I truly love their music and have followed them for years. I saw them in concert in 1981. Glen Frey, vocalist, guitarist, and writer passed away at the young age of 67 on January 18, 2016. He will be missed and the Eagles will not be the same. RIP Glen!
Wednesday, January 13, 2016
Training: Practice, Practice, Practice! But Do It Right
It’s been a little more than six years since two officers were shot in a dramatic gunfight in a trailer park in Enon, Ohio
“January 01, 2011
ENON, Ohio – A sheriff's deputy investigating a report of gunfire at a trailer park was shot dead Saturday, and the shooting suspect was killed after a gun battle with police, authorities said. A police officer was wounded.”
This particular gunfight was different because there was a photographer on scene taking photos as the shooting started. There is a picture of one of the officers being shot and falling to the ground.
Bullets usually don’t make people fall. They don’t knock people down or off of their feet. Physics are still a natural law. For every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction. If a bullet had enough power to knock someone over, the recoil would knock the shooter down too.
Why does someone fall down when they are shot? Maybe the bullet hits something that is part of the standing process like a leg or hip bone. Maybe the bullet hit something vital to life such as the heart or brain. That can “turn off” someone. But it must be a precise shot. Most shots are not. Often surprise can overwhelm a body. Sometimes people fall because that’s what they’ve been subconsciously programmed to do after seeing people fall in countless movie gunfights. It doesn’t really matter but know that you may go down if you are hit in a gunfight, even if you were just grazed. You need to be able to continue in the fight from where ever you end up. You or others may be dependent on you being able to stay in the fight. So what does this mean to you? You’re not in the military. You’re not in law enforcement. Unless of course you are. Most of us are not, but are just civilian concealed carry holders. You can train like you may have to fight. If you were on the ground could you draw your weapon? Maybe you need to reevaluate how you carry.
Here are some ideas.
Make your carry weapon safe (unloaded) and holster it. Can you draw (preferably without muzzling yourself):
From the standing position?
From a kneeling position? One knee? The other knee? Both knees down?
Sitting on the ground?
Laying on your side? Both sides?
Laying on your back?
Laying on your stomach?
Give each of these positions a try with your unloaded gun. Then try to draw from each position using your dominant hand only. Finally, give it a try with your weak hand only.
If you can’t draw your weapon with either hand from any position you may find yourself in, I would submit that your carry location is a fail.
When I go to the range I get crazy looks from others there because I shoot from many positions. It kind of looks funny as I lie on my back or side, shoot around benches or over them. It really doesn’t take a lot of work, just different work.
Commit to practicing the way you imagine you will fight. Seldom will you have to opportunity to take a weaver stance, make a perfect two handed grip, and shoot straight at a target in the field. In the military we practiced shooting from several positions. There was a reason for that. The military knew that the perfect, optimal position would probably never come along in a combat situation. I feel the same way about concealed carry. Seldom will you shoot the traditional way.
You can make the difference with your training. You don’t need to practice for hours a day. I think less than an hour a week doing a routine training course will give you what you need. First learn the proper way to shoot. Then train like you fight. Also remember that:
“Practice does not make perfect. Only perfect practice makes perfect.”
Training is a very important part of carrying a gun. Please do not think you will rise to the occasion. You will rise to your training.
Semper Paratus
Check 6
Burn
Monday, January 11, 2016
Staying Warm: Wool Blankets
Winter is in full swing. Unless you live in the Southwest, and even some locations there, you may be dealing with extreme cold and snow. It takes someone smart to stay warm.
At one time, woolen blankets were found in every home, but today, the majority of our blankets are woven of cottons or acrylic fibers which are fairly easy care. But don't let that deter you from owning or inheriting pure wool blankets they're not that hard to care for and they'll keep you very warm on a cold night. Just a few tips on caring and storing is all you need and you can start to enjoy these warm covers.
The Technical Side of Wool.
Each wool fiber (measuring about a thousandth of an inch in diameter, depending on the grade) consists of a bundle of corticle cells, made up of polypeptide chains arranged in coils. These corticle cells are wrapped up in a scaly outer layer called a cuticle, which in turn is covered by a filmy skin called an epicuticle. The epicuticle actually sheds drops of water.
In addition, raindrops are less likely to break up on the surface of wool and seep through than with other fabrics, since the fuzziness of the fibers cushions the fall. So in a light rain, much of the water runs right off, the fabric hardly getting damp at all.
But the real genius of the wool fiber lies in its ability to cope with the high humidity that you may get during rainstorms or at other times. The sheep (they may look stupid, but it's all an act) have cleverly equipped the epicuticle with tiny pores that allow water vapor to pass through to the core, where it's chemically absorbed. A single fibre can slurp up to 30 percent of its own weight in moisture without feeling wet.
Wool does act as a natural insulator, thanks to its built-in crimp. The fibers repel each other, keeping a bit of dead air in between them. But it's the epicuticle that does the heavy lifting when it comes to keeping you warm despite the wet What type of Blanket?
Purchasing a blanket made of 100% wool is best, but hard to come by. A Blanket made of 80% wool, or above will give you similar results as a 100% wool blanket does. Just be sure the weaving is the right kind. If you want a long lasting blanket, that can be washed many times, you want to ask for a "Loom woven" blanket. A less expensive, but with limited washings (if any) is a "Needle-punch" blanket. Learning the difference between the two types of weave will help you decide what blanket to Purchase.
What is a "loom woven" wool blanket?
•
The yarn from two directions are actually woven together.
•
Produces a very durable, warm and long lasting wool blanket that is suitable for machine washing and drying.
•
Recommended for facilities that will wash and dry woolen blankets on a regular basis.
What is a "needle-punch" or "non-woven" wool blanket?
•
Blended fibers of wool and synthetic are intertwined with thousands of needles above and below, producing a felt-like blanket material.
•
Produces a warm, limited-use wool blanket for disaster and emergency relief.
•
This inexpensive process allows for large quanties of wool blankets to be produced quickly and sold at a low cost to humanitarian organizations.
•
Not recommended for machine washing.
What's So Great About Wool?
Wool is water resistant. The quality that distinguishes wool fibers from hair or fur is the presence of a hard, water- repellent outer layer that surrounds each hollow fiber, overlapping like shingles on a roof. The fiber's core absorbs up to 30% of its weight in moisture vapor without becoming damp or clammy, while the hard outer layer protects against outside liquid moisture. Water is repelled, but humidity is absorbed, and that helps with thermal regulation.
Wool is moisture wicking. Besides keeping outside moisture away from the skin, wool also wicks away perspiration. When you sweat, that sweat cools your skin—which is not what you want when it's cold outside. Wool fibers absorb perspiration and wick it away from your body, thus keeping you warm and dry.
Wool is a wonderful insulator. The crimp of the wool produces insulating air spaces that retain body heat. These warm air pockets next to the skin are kept dry while the hollow wool fibers absorb moisture vapors and the hard outer surface moves liquid moisture away from the body.
Wool regulates temperature and is breathable. Wool has a very wide comfort range, essential for adapting to changing weather conditions. This unique property makes wool the perfect fiber to be used in the production of outerwear, because it has the versatile ability to warm in colder conditions and cool in warmer conditions.
Wool blends well. Wool can be blended with many different natural and synthetic fibers to create a multitude of fabric options.
Wool helps Allergies. Wool is an inhospitable environment for dust mites.
Sensitive Skin Alert. Persons who have allergies or sensitive skin may find pure wool blankets or fabrics irritating on their skin.
Here are a few tips to help you prolong the use of a wool blanket:
Beat and brush the blanket: Every few days, simply slap the blanket against a door, pipe, fence, etc. Then use a soft to medium stiff horse brush (not a metal curry comb), and brush the hair and dander from the blanket. This won’t take more than 5 minutes of your time.
Wash the blanket: Every 60 to 90 days, wash the blanket in a tub of cold water. For best results, put your blanket in a tub of water and let it soak for a least an hour. Then, as best you can "wring" the blanket in the water, then "wring"
it out of the water.
Hang the blanket over a rail: (like the top rail of a fence), and with a soft to medium brush, lightly brush the blanket on both sides. Let the blanket air dry completely, then slap it against a door or fence until it feels as soft as a brand new one.
NOTE: It is best Not to use soap when washing wool blankets. The blanket will retain much of the soap (even soaps made specifically for wool). When the blanket becomes wet with sweat, the residual soap may seep throughout the very porous wool, and irritate a horse’s back.
After a few washings, the color will of course begin to fade. This has no bearing on the usefulness of the blanket in serving it’s true purpose. You might find that you prefer an older, faded, soft blanket next to your horse’s back. After all, the concept is to protect your horse’s back and keep them comfortable
How to wash your wool Blanket…
The rule of thumb for all pure wool clothing and blankets is to wash in cold water and gently wring or use the delicate cycle and low spin on your washer. It's no longer necessary to handwash woolen items, as most washers now have a delicate agitation cycle and low spin feature. Heat can and usually does shrink woolens, reducing them in size and ruining their appearance. Cold water and gentle washing will help keep your woolens in good condition.
Wool requires special care. It is important to read the care label of your wool blankets. Some wool blankets are washable.
Others will need to be dry cleaned. Once wool has been shrunk, there is no way to retrieve the original size - so be careful! If your wool blanket's care label says that it is machine washable, wash in cold water and lay flat to dry, unless otherwise stated.
Yes, they can be dry cleaned if you prefer. All of them can be washed, but the technique for washing has changed in the last few year.
Easy Soak
If your wool blanket is washable you may wish to try the easy soak method. It that saves energy and prevents shrinkage. Use lukewarm water and an unbuilt synthetic detergent. Unbuilt detergents are those are those containing no soap and no builders such as washing soda, borax, and other chemical compounds that are alkaline. All soaps and all water softeners contain alkalis, which are damaging to wool.
First pretreat any spots or especially soiled areas with detergent. Dampen the area and apply the detergent with a soft brush or sponge. You can use the easy soak method in either tub or washing machine.
1. Fill the washer with lukewarm water, add the detergent, then put your blanket in.
2. Without operating the washer, let the blanket soak for 15-20 minutes.
3. Then turn it over once or twice by hand and spin off the water.
4. Refill the machine with lukewarm water and with washer off let the blanket soak-rinse for 5 minutes.
5. Spin out the water. Dry by hanging the wool blanket on a taught line with a fold in the middle. Or hang the blanket over parallel lines placed about a foot apart for quicker drying. The blanket should be in the shade.
Some other options are to hang wool blankets outside in summer and let them air dry. If that's not possible, you could hang a slightly damp blanket over a door or lay it across a few chair backs and it will dry overnight. A non-rusting shower or towel bar is also a good option.
Do not use clothes-pins; they will leave a mark. When the blanket is thoroughly dry, fluff the nap up with a stiff brush and press the bindings, but not the blanket.
A moth-proofing mixture (EQ-53) can be added to the second rinse if desired. The blanket can then be stored safely in the linen closet without wrapping. This method of washing blankets gives fine results. The detergents rinse out easily, leaving the blankets soft and fluffy. There is less shrinking, matting, or stretching than if the blanket was agitated in a washer or squeezed and rubbed by hand.
Storing Wool Blankets.
Since woolen blankets are usually stored when not required, it's important to protect them in storage from pests and dampness. Years ago, moth balls were used to keep insects from destroying the wool fibers, but this method left a lasting, hard-to-get-rid-of unpleasant scent that permeated the whole room.
Today, you can easily store these blankets in a tightly-sealed bin or heavy plastic bag. If pests are a real concern in your area, you can add a few cedar chips which are available from most general merchandise outlets. Cedar wood is a natural flying insect repellent and is a good alternative to moth balls.
How to get odors out of a blanket?
Some staining substances can leave a strong residual odor which remains even after repeated cleanings. There is a treatment that may be effective when standard cleaning methods are not. It is called an ozone treatment and is particularly useful for organic based odors. Ozone treatments are occasionally available through dry cleaners. You can also look for an ozone treatment facility in the phone book; look under "ozone" or "fire restoration" (ozone treatments are often used for the removal of smoke odor) on the internet.
Protecting wools from moth damage?
To best protect wools from moths, it helps to first know when wools are susceptible to this type of insect damage.
Moth damage to wools mainly occurs during storage or when wool articles are not moved or worn on a regular basis.
Clothes moths, which are small buff-colored moths, choose dark, quiet, undisturbed places to lay eggs. It's the moth larvae that feed on wool, not the adult moths. Knowing that wools are susceptible to moth damage during storage or inactivity, here are several easy steps that will generally prevent damage:
Clean your wool before placing in storage. Soiled wools (even those which have picked up invisible body oils) are more likely to attract moths. Both dry cleaning and laundering will remove any moth eggs or larvae.
After cleaning, store wools in an airtight bag or container.
Although the above steps should be effective for moth control, some consumers choose to use additional measures for moth control. Commonly-found moth control products on the market include moth balls, moth crystals, cedar (in various forms) and herbal sachets. Both the moth balls and crystals are very effective when used as directed.
At one time, woolen blankets were found in every home, but today, the majority of our blankets are woven of cottons or acrylic fibers which are fairly easy care. But don't let that deter you from owning or inheriting pure wool blankets they're not that hard to care for and they'll keep you very warm on a cold night. Just a few tips on caring and storing is all you need and you can start to enjoy these warm covers.
The Technical Side of Wool.
Each wool fiber (measuring about a thousandth of an inch in diameter, depending on the grade) consists of a bundle of corticle cells, made up of polypeptide chains arranged in coils. These corticle cells are wrapped up in a scaly outer layer called a cuticle, which in turn is covered by a filmy skin called an epicuticle. The epicuticle actually sheds drops of water.
In addition, raindrops are less likely to break up on the surface of wool and seep through than with other fabrics, since the fuzziness of the fibers cushions the fall. So in a light rain, much of the water runs right off, the fabric hardly getting damp at all.
But the real genius of the wool fiber lies in its ability to cope with the high humidity that you may get during rainstorms or at other times. The sheep (they may look stupid, but it's all an act) have cleverly equipped the epicuticle with tiny pores that allow water vapor to pass through to the core, where it's chemically absorbed. A single fibre can slurp up to 30 percent of its own weight in moisture without feeling wet.
Wool does act as a natural insulator, thanks to its built-in crimp. The fibers repel each other, keeping a bit of dead air in between them. But it's the epicuticle that does the heavy lifting when it comes to keeping you warm despite the wet What type of Blanket?
Purchasing a blanket made of 100% wool is best, but hard to come by. A Blanket made of 80% wool, or above will give you similar results as a 100% wool blanket does. Just be sure the weaving is the right kind. If you want a long lasting blanket, that can be washed many times, you want to ask for a "Loom woven" blanket. A less expensive, but with limited washings (if any) is a "Needle-punch" blanket. Learning the difference between the two types of weave will help you decide what blanket to Purchase.
What is a "loom woven" wool blanket?
•
The yarn from two directions are actually woven together.
•
Produces a very durable, warm and long lasting wool blanket that is suitable for machine washing and drying.
•
Recommended for facilities that will wash and dry woolen blankets on a regular basis.
What is a "needle-punch" or "non-woven" wool blanket?
•
Blended fibers of wool and synthetic are intertwined with thousands of needles above and below, producing a felt-like blanket material.
•
Produces a warm, limited-use wool blanket for disaster and emergency relief.
•
This inexpensive process allows for large quanties of wool blankets to be produced quickly and sold at a low cost to humanitarian organizations.
•
Not recommended for machine washing.
What's So Great About Wool?
Wool is water resistant. The quality that distinguishes wool fibers from hair or fur is the presence of a hard, water- repellent outer layer that surrounds each hollow fiber, overlapping like shingles on a roof. The fiber's core absorbs up to 30% of its weight in moisture vapor without becoming damp or clammy, while the hard outer layer protects against outside liquid moisture. Water is repelled, but humidity is absorbed, and that helps with thermal regulation.
Wool is moisture wicking. Besides keeping outside moisture away from the skin, wool also wicks away perspiration. When you sweat, that sweat cools your skin—which is not what you want when it's cold outside. Wool fibers absorb perspiration and wick it away from your body, thus keeping you warm and dry.
Wool is a wonderful insulator. The crimp of the wool produces insulating air spaces that retain body heat. These warm air pockets next to the skin are kept dry while the hollow wool fibers absorb moisture vapors and the hard outer surface moves liquid moisture away from the body.
Wool regulates temperature and is breathable. Wool has a very wide comfort range, essential for adapting to changing weather conditions. This unique property makes wool the perfect fiber to be used in the production of outerwear, because it has the versatile ability to warm in colder conditions and cool in warmer conditions.
Wool blends well. Wool can be blended with many different natural and synthetic fibers to create a multitude of fabric options.
Wool helps Allergies. Wool is an inhospitable environment for dust mites.
Sensitive Skin Alert. Persons who have allergies or sensitive skin may find pure wool blankets or fabrics irritating on their skin.
Here are a few tips to help you prolong the use of a wool blanket:
Beat and brush the blanket: Every few days, simply slap the blanket against a door, pipe, fence, etc. Then use a soft to medium stiff horse brush (not a metal curry comb), and brush the hair and dander from the blanket. This won’t take more than 5 minutes of your time.
Wash the blanket: Every 60 to 90 days, wash the blanket in a tub of cold water. For best results, put your blanket in a tub of water and let it soak for a least an hour. Then, as best you can "wring" the blanket in the water, then "wring"
it out of the water.
Hang the blanket over a rail: (like the top rail of a fence), and with a soft to medium brush, lightly brush the blanket on both sides. Let the blanket air dry completely, then slap it against a door or fence until it feels as soft as a brand new one.
NOTE: It is best Not to use soap when washing wool blankets. The blanket will retain much of the soap (even soaps made specifically for wool). When the blanket becomes wet with sweat, the residual soap may seep throughout the very porous wool, and irritate a horse’s back.
After a few washings, the color will of course begin to fade. This has no bearing on the usefulness of the blanket in serving it’s true purpose. You might find that you prefer an older, faded, soft blanket next to your horse’s back. After all, the concept is to protect your horse’s back and keep them comfortable
How to wash your wool Blanket…
The rule of thumb for all pure wool clothing and blankets is to wash in cold water and gently wring or use the delicate cycle and low spin on your washer. It's no longer necessary to handwash woolen items, as most washers now have a delicate agitation cycle and low spin feature. Heat can and usually does shrink woolens, reducing them in size and ruining their appearance. Cold water and gentle washing will help keep your woolens in good condition.
Wool requires special care. It is important to read the care label of your wool blankets. Some wool blankets are washable.
Others will need to be dry cleaned. Once wool has been shrunk, there is no way to retrieve the original size - so be careful! If your wool blanket's care label says that it is machine washable, wash in cold water and lay flat to dry, unless otherwise stated.
Yes, they can be dry cleaned if you prefer. All of them can be washed, but the technique for washing has changed in the last few year.
Easy Soak
If your wool blanket is washable you may wish to try the easy soak method. It that saves energy and prevents shrinkage. Use lukewarm water and an unbuilt synthetic detergent. Unbuilt detergents are those are those containing no soap and no builders such as washing soda, borax, and other chemical compounds that are alkaline. All soaps and all water softeners contain alkalis, which are damaging to wool.
First pretreat any spots or especially soiled areas with detergent. Dampen the area and apply the detergent with a soft brush or sponge. You can use the easy soak method in either tub or washing machine.
1. Fill the washer with lukewarm water, add the detergent, then put your blanket in.
2. Without operating the washer, let the blanket soak for 15-20 minutes.
3. Then turn it over once or twice by hand and spin off the water.
4. Refill the machine with lukewarm water and with washer off let the blanket soak-rinse for 5 minutes.
5. Spin out the water. Dry by hanging the wool blanket on a taught line with a fold in the middle. Or hang the blanket over parallel lines placed about a foot apart for quicker drying. The blanket should be in the shade.
Some other options are to hang wool blankets outside in summer and let them air dry. If that's not possible, you could hang a slightly damp blanket over a door or lay it across a few chair backs and it will dry overnight. A non-rusting shower or towel bar is also a good option.
Do not use clothes-pins; they will leave a mark. When the blanket is thoroughly dry, fluff the nap up with a stiff brush and press the bindings, but not the blanket.
A moth-proofing mixture (EQ-53) can be added to the second rinse if desired. The blanket can then be stored safely in the linen closet without wrapping. This method of washing blankets gives fine results. The detergents rinse out easily, leaving the blankets soft and fluffy. There is less shrinking, matting, or stretching than if the blanket was agitated in a washer or squeezed and rubbed by hand.
Storing Wool Blankets.
Since woolen blankets are usually stored when not required, it's important to protect them in storage from pests and dampness. Years ago, moth balls were used to keep insects from destroying the wool fibers, but this method left a lasting, hard-to-get-rid-of unpleasant scent that permeated the whole room.
Today, you can easily store these blankets in a tightly-sealed bin or heavy plastic bag. If pests are a real concern in your area, you can add a few cedar chips which are available from most general merchandise outlets. Cedar wood is a natural flying insect repellent and is a good alternative to moth balls.
How to get odors out of a blanket?
Some staining substances can leave a strong residual odor which remains even after repeated cleanings. There is a treatment that may be effective when standard cleaning methods are not. It is called an ozone treatment and is particularly useful for organic based odors. Ozone treatments are occasionally available through dry cleaners. You can also look for an ozone treatment facility in the phone book; look under "ozone" or "fire restoration" (ozone treatments are often used for the removal of smoke odor) on the internet.
Protecting wools from moth damage?
To best protect wools from moths, it helps to first know when wools are susceptible to this type of insect damage.
Moth damage to wools mainly occurs during storage or when wool articles are not moved or worn on a regular basis.
Clothes moths, which are small buff-colored moths, choose dark, quiet, undisturbed places to lay eggs. It's the moth larvae that feed on wool, not the adult moths. Knowing that wools are susceptible to moth damage during storage or inactivity, here are several easy steps that will generally prevent damage:
Clean your wool before placing in storage. Soiled wools (even those which have picked up invisible body oils) are more likely to attract moths. Both dry cleaning and laundering will remove any moth eggs or larvae.
After cleaning, store wools in an airtight bag or container.
Although the above steps should be effective for moth control, some consumers choose to use additional measures for moth control. Commonly-found moth control products on the market include moth balls, moth crystals, cedar (in various forms) and herbal sachets. Both the moth balls and crystals are very effective when used as directed.
Friday, January 8, 2016
Get Home Bag
You’ve heard of a bug out bag but I’d like to talk about the bug out bags (BOB) cousin, the get home bag (GHB).
I work on a federal installation. Security is higher than the average place. Military security forces take care of this relatively small area. So we really have our own police/combat department who’s only task is to secure the governments property. I am no longer government property. I work for a contractor like most civilians on federal installations in this country. But because of this small, encapsulated area we have security equipment, security measures, and security policies that we adhere to every day. I say this only because if something serious happened, a nuclear attack or similar catastrophic event, I might have to decide whether I would stay at work (shelter in place) or try to get out of here. This may be a challenge but I don’t want to have to worry about getting off that installation and how I would get home safely. So I carry a get home bag. This is similar to my bug out bag but a lot smaller. My BOB weighs about 25 pounds dry (with no water). My GHB only weighs 10 pounds so it has a lot less equipment in it. But like your BOB, you must decide what to keep in your GHB.
I keep the following in every vehicle I have. A small tool kit. A first aid kit. Water (at least 3 gallons). I keep a lighter and a knife in every glove compartment. I also have every day carry (EDC) items that are always with me including a knife, a gun and spare magazine, fire starting tool, and flashlight. So these items supplement my GHB.
This is what I carry:
Shelter/Warmth
Emergency poncho, Emergency blanket, Tube tent, Hat, Hand warmers, Fire starting kit (at least 3 deep redundancy)
Tools/Light
Folding Knife, Paracord, Trash bags, Recharger (lawn solar light), Leather gloves, N95 Dust mask, Shower cap, Light stick, Generator Flashlight
Sanitary kit
Toilet paper, Feminine supplies, Toothbrush, toothpaste, Liquid soap, Baby wipes, Washcloth, Sun block, Chapstik
Security
Whistle, Pepper spray
Food/Water
Nylon spork, Can opener, Filter straw, Water bladder
Food: Tuna pouch, MRE crackers, Jerky, 2 Spam packets, 2 sausage (canned), 2 rice meals (in mylar packaging), 2 gatorade pacs, 2 MRE entrees, Can of tuna
Tuna can for cooking
Condom for water
Map
Compass
Level 1 first aid kit
Most of these items are pretty self-explanatory. The first aid kit has potassium iodine tablets for nuclear fallout protection so the shower cap is also for that.
The condom is only for emergency water transport I have a water bladder.
Your kit should also reflect your training. If you do not know how to use a flint and steel to start a fire, then it probably would not make sense to have that in your kit.
Some basic skills I think everyone should learn is fire building, first aid with some advanced medical training such as suturing, map reading and the use of a compass. These are things that I make sure I practice and even teach to my family.
Getting home is probably going to be my goal with most emergency preparedness situations that may occur. My home is where I feel the most prepared and it is also where my most important items are, my family.
Prepare well and ahead of time.
Semper Paratus
Check 6
Burn
I work on a federal installation. Security is higher than the average place. Military security forces take care of this relatively small area. So we really have our own police/combat department who’s only task is to secure the governments property. I am no longer government property. I work for a contractor like most civilians on federal installations in this country. But because of this small, encapsulated area we have security equipment, security measures, and security policies that we adhere to every day. I say this only because if something serious happened, a nuclear attack or similar catastrophic event, I might have to decide whether I would stay at work (shelter in place) or try to get out of here. This may be a challenge but I don’t want to have to worry about getting off that installation and how I would get home safely. So I carry a get home bag. This is similar to my bug out bag but a lot smaller. My BOB weighs about 25 pounds dry (with no water). My GHB only weighs 10 pounds so it has a lot less equipment in it. But like your BOB, you must decide what to keep in your GHB.
I keep the following in every vehicle I have. A small tool kit. A first aid kit. Water (at least 3 gallons). I keep a lighter and a knife in every glove compartment. I also have every day carry (EDC) items that are always with me including a knife, a gun and spare magazine, fire starting tool, and flashlight. So these items supplement my GHB.
This is what I carry:
Shelter/Warmth
Emergency poncho, Emergency blanket, Tube tent, Hat, Hand warmers, Fire starting kit (at least 3 deep redundancy)
Tools/Light
Folding Knife, Paracord, Trash bags, Recharger (lawn solar light), Leather gloves, N95 Dust mask, Shower cap, Light stick, Generator Flashlight
Sanitary kit
Toilet paper, Feminine supplies, Toothbrush, toothpaste, Liquid soap, Baby wipes, Washcloth, Sun block, Chapstik
Security
Whistle, Pepper spray
Food/Water
Nylon spork, Can opener, Filter straw, Water bladder
Food: Tuna pouch, MRE crackers, Jerky, 2 Spam packets, 2 sausage (canned), 2 rice meals (in mylar packaging), 2 gatorade pacs, 2 MRE entrees, Can of tuna
Tuna can for cooking
Condom for water
Map
Compass
Level 1 first aid kit
Most of these items are pretty self-explanatory. The first aid kit has potassium iodine tablets for nuclear fallout protection so the shower cap is also for that.
The condom is only for emergency water transport I have a water bladder.
Your kit should also reflect your training. If you do not know how to use a flint and steel to start a fire, then it probably would not make sense to have that in your kit.
Some basic skills I think everyone should learn is fire building, first aid with some advanced medical training such as suturing, map reading and the use of a compass. These are things that I make sure I practice and even teach to my family.
Getting home is probably going to be my goal with most emergency preparedness situations that may occur. My home is where I feel the most prepared and it is also where my most important items are, my family.
Prepare well and ahead of time.
Semper Paratus
Check 6
Burn
Evasion Driving
Disclaimer: At the risk of sounding politically correct I must give this warning. Although it’s easy to explain some of these techniques here in print, please don’t do any of these tactics without going to a competent course with good instructors. Many of these things can be dangerous and may cause damage to your vehicle, or worse, injury. Know what you are doing before trying these techniques. Always wear seatbelts and be safe. I watched a student roll a SUV during a very well staffed and taught combat driving course so don’t assume you can do this on your own.
Back in the 80’s I had a chance to take a combat driving course actually offered to military and DOD personnel by the State Department. The course was run by the CIA. It was fun but challenging.
I now live in a place that I would probably not bug out from unless of specific threats or natural disasters. So most of this information is for those of you who live in a city or suburban area where you may find a need to bug out. Learning some basics of bugging out may help in this endeavor. Learn these things now when they are not needed.
Knowing when to leave is very personal and is also scenario driven. I can’t tell you when that is but you must determine at what point, or what signals, will tell you to leave. While things are not crazy would be preferred over chaos. Later on there may be road blocks, drones, or other things in place to prevent you from leaving. Remember that when this time comes, do it quietly. Operations and communication security is important. Pre-arranging as much as possible or taking a lot of time to slowly pack may help.
Under normal circumstances, you may not give much thought to how your car looks as you pass from one area to another. In a survival situation, unusual colors (for the neighborhood), makes, models, or vehicle condition will stick out to everyone, including law enforcement officials familiar with the area.
To keep a low profile, it is extremely important your vehicle does not stand out in color, make, and apparent performance. Take a few trips now between your home and bug out location. What do the cars look like on various routes? Are they newer vehicles or older ones? Are they well kept up or in need of a washing? Some tricks you can use to help blend in with the other traffic around you include:
• Leave chrome dingy or polish it up depending on the area.
• Use water soluble paint to make the vehicle look heavily rusted
• The interior must either look like it has not been cleaned or detailed in a long time or spotlessly clean.
• Tires and rims may need to look old and well used even though they are not.
• Be aware of license plate and registration sticker placement, and if possible meet up with your party and be sure they have a vehicle that fits the scenery in this aspect.
• The engine, transmission, and drive train should be powerful and in top condition regardless of exterior appearance and muffler sounds.
• If possible, drive expected routes often without actually going to your bug out location so that your presence in the area looks normal.
• Match the driving skills and habits of other drivers on the road. Do not drive in a way that draws attention to your presence. Beware of road rage because it can get you killed, run off the road, or in a major accident.
Do not dress in flashy jewelry, colors or styles unless that is the norm for an area where you will be seen for any length of time.
Keep in mind that bling will advertise that you have money and property; which can be deadly in a riot or lawless situation. Wear older clothes that show a little wear and tear.
Do not carry purses or bags. Instead, keep money and identification in a pants pocket.
To estimate the fuel use of your vehicle, test the fuel consumption under different speeds, conditions, and loads. Doing this multiple times will give you the best information available. Traveling at the speed that gives the vehicle the best mileage may not be the speed that blends best with the local traffic.
Overall, you can still save gas by:
• Only speeding up to escape or evade a hazardous situation.
• Avoid quick tire spinning take offs, hard braking, and stop and go driving.
• Do not use the AC, radio, or other electronic devices (including GPS and other devices that can be used to track your location).
Before a time of crisis you must already have chosen primary and secondary routes to the bug out location. Use a good recent map to plot your route to the final destination. Look at the lay of the land and best use it to your advantage.
When bugging out do not use the interstates and try to stay off city streets. These roads will be quickly backed up into one very large traffic jam. These roads are also the first that will be set up for electronic diversion measures and helicopter/drone herding techniques.
Use back roads and town roads when bugging out.
Seek specialized training in escape and evade driving, high speed driving, bad weather driving, and all terrain driving. Also study map reading and land navigation without the use of a GPS.
Some common escape and evade techniques you should make it a point to master:
Reverse 180 or J-Turn – This is one of the best ways to escape from a road block or any other stopping system that makes you come to a complete stop on the roadway. Here is how it is done.
For front wheel or all-wheel drive vehicles (do the same thing for rear wheel drive vehicles unless noted in parenthesis):
• Start from a stopped position.
• Accelerate in reverse to between 10 and 30 MPH.
• The faster you go the easier it is to get the front to come around, but it is more dangerous and there is a greater chance of damaging the engine or transmission.
• Quickly turn the steering wheel in one direction to start the front end sliding.
• Press down on the gas pedal to start the turn (do not do this on a rear wheel drive).
• As the front of the vehicle is sliding tap brakes lightly (on a rear wheel drive vehicle, hit the brakes hard but do not lock them up – do this as you turn the steering wheel)
• Then put vehicle in neutral.
• Put the vehicle in gear when the front is facing the desired direction (on a rear wheel vehicle, put the vehicle in gear half way through the slide.)
• Hit the gas and make minor direction changes with the steering wheel.
Bootleg Turn – Is a driving maneuver to reverse the direction of travel by 180 degrees in a minimum amount of time while staying within the width of a 2 lane road. Let’s see how to do it:
• Put the vehicle quickly into a lower gear (usually second gear) and quickly turn the steering wheel in the direction of the opposite lane.
• The vehicle will enter a controlled skid.
• The vehicle will enter the opposite lane.
• The vehicle will turn completely around.
• In a perfect turn the vehicle will be at a complete stop.
• The vehicle is ready to accelerate and depart in the opposite direction.
Warning!
• A classic Boot Leg Turn is only recommended with vehicles having a manual transmission.
• Are best done with a rear wheel drive vehicle as the spinning back wheels help in the turn.
• This turn can be done by vehicles that have automatic transmissions, but the transmissions must be modified to do this turn (stunt cars, police, or executive protection cars).
Handbrake Turn – This method is safe for both manual and automatic transmissions. It is easier to use the handbrake to break the traction of the rear wheels than simply using power based methods.
Cars with a handbrake connected to the rear wheels can enter a controlled turning skid. This is done by:
• Employing the handbrake hard to lock the wheels.
• Turn the steering wheel sharply in the direction of the other lane to start the controlled turning skid.
• The vehicle will enter the opposite lane and turn completely around.
• In a perfect turn the vehicle will be at a complete stop.
• The vehicle is ready to accelerate and depart in the opposite direction.
There are other things you should learn also.
• High Speed Driving – take an amateur racing car driving course and practice as often as possible on a race track. Do NOT assume you know how to drive well enough to practice on the thruways or in rush hour traffic.
• Bad Weather Driving – take bad weather driving classes that use a skid pad to simulate very wet, icy, slippery, leaf filled, or high snow conditions on roads. A large, empty parking lot can also be used for practice as weather allows. Always remember the key to safe driving in these conditions is maintaining traction. Rolling forward one wheel revolution when making a turn is enough to prevent most skids as is knowing how to control momentum vs traction on declines.
• All Terrain Driving – Take an all-terrain driving course, and also prepare your vehicle as much as possible for situations where you must leave paved roadways and continue on using old dirt roads or pathways.
It is a good thing to learn and practice the basics of how to safely prepare for driving to your bug out location before a major crisis occurs. This includes how to leave undetected, how to get the best mileage from vehicles, how to choose the safest route, and finally how to avoid obstacles on the road.
Driving in a evacuation situation will be stressful. Especially if you have loved ones with you. Learn all that you can and practice safely. There are many places that teach this but you have to look for it and it can be expensive. Like any other specialized training combat driving is not just taught anywhere. Be wise and be safe.
Back in the 80’s I had a chance to take a combat driving course actually offered to military and DOD personnel by the State Department. The course was run by the CIA. It was fun but challenging.
I now live in a place that I would probably not bug out from unless of specific threats or natural disasters. So most of this information is for those of you who live in a city or suburban area where you may find a need to bug out. Learning some basics of bugging out may help in this endeavor. Learn these things now when they are not needed.
Knowing when to leave is very personal and is also scenario driven. I can’t tell you when that is but you must determine at what point, or what signals, will tell you to leave. While things are not crazy would be preferred over chaos. Later on there may be road blocks, drones, or other things in place to prevent you from leaving. Remember that when this time comes, do it quietly. Operations and communication security is important. Pre-arranging as much as possible or taking a lot of time to slowly pack may help.
Under normal circumstances, you may not give much thought to how your car looks as you pass from one area to another. In a survival situation, unusual colors (for the neighborhood), makes, models, or vehicle condition will stick out to everyone, including law enforcement officials familiar with the area.
To keep a low profile, it is extremely important your vehicle does not stand out in color, make, and apparent performance. Take a few trips now between your home and bug out location. What do the cars look like on various routes? Are they newer vehicles or older ones? Are they well kept up or in need of a washing? Some tricks you can use to help blend in with the other traffic around you include:
• Leave chrome dingy or polish it up depending on the area.
• Use water soluble paint to make the vehicle look heavily rusted
• The interior must either look like it has not been cleaned or detailed in a long time or spotlessly clean.
• Tires and rims may need to look old and well used even though they are not.
• Be aware of license plate and registration sticker placement, and if possible meet up with your party and be sure they have a vehicle that fits the scenery in this aspect.
• The engine, transmission, and drive train should be powerful and in top condition regardless of exterior appearance and muffler sounds.
• If possible, drive expected routes often without actually going to your bug out location so that your presence in the area looks normal.
• Match the driving skills and habits of other drivers on the road. Do not drive in a way that draws attention to your presence. Beware of road rage because it can get you killed, run off the road, or in a major accident.
Do not dress in flashy jewelry, colors or styles unless that is the norm for an area where you will be seen for any length of time.
Keep in mind that bling will advertise that you have money and property; which can be deadly in a riot or lawless situation. Wear older clothes that show a little wear and tear.
Do not carry purses or bags. Instead, keep money and identification in a pants pocket.
To estimate the fuel use of your vehicle, test the fuel consumption under different speeds, conditions, and loads. Doing this multiple times will give you the best information available. Traveling at the speed that gives the vehicle the best mileage may not be the speed that blends best with the local traffic.
Overall, you can still save gas by:
• Only speeding up to escape or evade a hazardous situation.
• Avoid quick tire spinning take offs, hard braking, and stop and go driving.
• Do not use the AC, radio, or other electronic devices (including GPS and other devices that can be used to track your location).
Before a time of crisis you must already have chosen primary and secondary routes to the bug out location. Use a good recent map to plot your route to the final destination. Look at the lay of the land and best use it to your advantage.
When bugging out do not use the interstates and try to stay off city streets. These roads will be quickly backed up into one very large traffic jam. These roads are also the first that will be set up for electronic diversion measures and helicopter/drone herding techniques.
Use back roads and town roads when bugging out.
Seek specialized training in escape and evade driving, high speed driving, bad weather driving, and all terrain driving. Also study map reading and land navigation without the use of a GPS.
Some common escape and evade techniques you should make it a point to master:
Reverse 180 or J-Turn – This is one of the best ways to escape from a road block or any other stopping system that makes you come to a complete stop on the roadway. Here is how it is done.
For front wheel or all-wheel drive vehicles (do the same thing for rear wheel drive vehicles unless noted in parenthesis):
• Start from a stopped position.
• Accelerate in reverse to between 10 and 30 MPH.
• The faster you go the easier it is to get the front to come around, but it is more dangerous and there is a greater chance of damaging the engine or transmission.
• Quickly turn the steering wheel in one direction to start the front end sliding.
• Press down on the gas pedal to start the turn (do not do this on a rear wheel drive).
• As the front of the vehicle is sliding tap brakes lightly (on a rear wheel drive vehicle, hit the brakes hard but do not lock them up – do this as you turn the steering wheel)
• Then put vehicle in neutral.
• Put the vehicle in gear when the front is facing the desired direction (on a rear wheel vehicle, put the vehicle in gear half way through the slide.)
• Hit the gas and make minor direction changes with the steering wheel.
Bootleg Turn – Is a driving maneuver to reverse the direction of travel by 180 degrees in a minimum amount of time while staying within the width of a 2 lane road. Let’s see how to do it:
• Put the vehicle quickly into a lower gear (usually second gear) and quickly turn the steering wheel in the direction of the opposite lane.
• The vehicle will enter a controlled skid.
• The vehicle will enter the opposite lane.
• The vehicle will turn completely around.
• In a perfect turn the vehicle will be at a complete stop.
• The vehicle is ready to accelerate and depart in the opposite direction.
Warning!
• A classic Boot Leg Turn is only recommended with vehicles having a manual transmission.
• Are best done with a rear wheel drive vehicle as the spinning back wheels help in the turn.
• This turn can be done by vehicles that have automatic transmissions, but the transmissions must be modified to do this turn (stunt cars, police, or executive protection cars).
Handbrake Turn – This method is safe for both manual and automatic transmissions. It is easier to use the handbrake to break the traction of the rear wheels than simply using power based methods.
Cars with a handbrake connected to the rear wheels can enter a controlled turning skid. This is done by:
• Employing the handbrake hard to lock the wheels.
• Turn the steering wheel sharply in the direction of the other lane to start the controlled turning skid.
• The vehicle will enter the opposite lane and turn completely around.
• In a perfect turn the vehicle will be at a complete stop.
• The vehicle is ready to accelerate and depart in the opposite direction.
There are other things you should learn also.
• High Speed Driving – take an amateur racing car driving course and practice as often as possible on a race track. Do NOT assume you know how to drive well enough to practice on the thruways or in rush hour traffic.
• Bad Weather Driving – take bad weather driving classes that use a skid pad to simulate very wet, icy, slippery, leaf filled, or high snow conditions on roads. A large, empty parking lot can also be used for practice as weather allows. Always remember the key to safe driving in these conditions is maintaining traction. Rolling forward one wheel revolution when making a turn is enough to prevent most skids as is knowing how to control momentum vs traction on declines.
• All Terrain Driving – Take an all-terrain driving course, and also prepare your vehicle as much as possible for situations where you must leave paved roadways and continue on using old dirt roads or pathways.
It is a good thing to learn and practice the basics of how to safely prepare for driving to your bug out location before a major crisis occurs. This includes how to leave undetected, how to get the best mileage from vehicles, how to choose the safest route, and finally how to avoid obstacles on the road.
Driving in a evacuation situation will be stressful. Especially if you have loved ones with you. Learn all that you can and practice safely. There are many places that teach this but you have to look for it and it can be expensive. Like any other specialized training combat driving is not just taught anywhere. Be wise and be safe.
Tuesday, January 5, 2016
LDS Gunsite Index 2015
LDS Gunsite Index 2015
JAN 2015 (16)
1. A New Year: Planning like Moroni 1/5/2015
2. The “Editor” Vetting Process 1/8/2015
3. French Terrorism and Your Threat Response 1/12/2015
4. LDS Gunsite Index 2014 1/13/2015
5. French Terrorism Analysis 1/14/2015
6. Concealed Carry: Carrying In The Winter Cold 1/14/2015
7. Concealed Carry: Reasons To Carry 1/16/2014
8. Gear Review: The Versatile Shemagh 1/19/2015
9. Review: Goal Zero Nomad 7 Solar Charger 1/20/2015
10. Father Of Delta Force David Beckwith 1/23/2015
11. Happy Birthday John Browning 1/23/2015
12. Happy Birthday John Boyd: The OODA Loop 1/23/2015
13. LDS Gunsite Turns 1! 1/24/2015
14. Preparedness: A Desperate Appeal 1/26/2015
15. Situational Awareness: The OODA Loop In Action 1/27/2015
16. Home Defense: Shotguns and Very Bad Advice 1/27/2015
FEB 2015 (13)
17. Happy Chris Kyle Day! 2/2/2015
18. Review: Preppers Matrix 2/2/2015
19. An Appeal: Please Join LDS Gunsite 2/2/2015
20. Concealed Carry: Become A Crimefighter With Knowledge 2/9/2015
21. Family Security: What I’d Teach My Kids About Security 2/12/2015
22. Mormon Outlaw: Butch Cassidy’s Gun 2/20/2015
23. Building A Medic Bag 2/20/2015
24. Muscle Memory and Training 2/20/2015
25. Review: You Tube Channel-Nutnfancy 2/23/2015
26. Family Security: Data Mining and COMSEC/OPSEC 2/26/2015
27. Who's Watching You?: Paying Attention and Surveillance 2/27/2015
28. Improvised Weapons: Fire Extinguisher 2/27/2015
29. Prepare With Training: Visualization 2/27/2015
MAR (13)
30. Security Smarts 3/2/2015
31. Defensive Gun Myths 3/3/2015
32. Home Defense: The "Fire Extinguisher Gun" 3/3/2015
33. Developing Situational Awareness Part 1 3/4/2015
34. The Most Important Preparedness Item 3/5/2015
35. Developing Situational Awareness Part 2 (200th Post) 3/5/2015
36. Developing Situational Awareness Part 3 3/6/2015
37. Concealed Carry: Train The Basics of Gun Defense 3/11/2015
38. Gun Terms: Don't Be An Idiot 3/12/2015
39. Choosing A Self-Defense Pen 3/18/2015
40. Medical: Wound Care Kit 3/18/2015
41. Concealed Carry/Home Defense: Verbal Warnings 3/26/2015
42. Basic of Knives and Knife Points 3/31/2015
APR (13)
43. Training: Creating A Training Plan 4/3/2015
44. Concealed Carry: Defense As A Couple 4/7/2015
45. Remembering Chris Kyle 4/8/2015
46. Old Glory 4/9/2015
47. Mutual Security or Defending With A Partner 4/10/2015
48. 5 Guns That Helped Shape The History of The Church and West 4/13/2015
49. EDC: Important Part Of Preparation 4/13/2015
50. Should You Hide Guns and Ammo? 4/14/2015
51. OP Rockwell Philosophy 4/16/2015
52. The Eternal Question: How Much Ammo? 4/20/2015
53. Survival Knots 4/20/2015
54. Responsible Self Defense 4/28/2015
55. Riot Security and Safety 4/29/2015
May (11)
56. Helping Someone Choose A Gun 5/1/2015
57. Water Storage – Myth vs. Fact 5/18/2015
58. Remembering John Dean "Jeff" Cooper 5/18/2015
60. Reason For Self-Defense 5/18/2015
61. Benefits of Dry Fire 5/19/2015
62. Remembering Bill Jordan and Carlos Hathcock 5/19/2015
63. Bikers, Police Protection, and Your Security 5/20/2015
64. Memorial Day 5/26/2015
65. The Cost of Stupidity: Law Enforcement and Us 5/27/2015
66. How To Achieve Security At Church 5/28/2015
67. Training: Force On Force and Airsoft 5/28/2015
June (11)
68. Oaths and Our Word 6/1/2015
69. Concealed Carry: Use of Force Continuum 6/3/2015
70. Less Than Lethal Ideas and Monkey Fists 6/5/2015
71. Security At An ATM 6/5/2015
72. 9mm Ammunition 6/12/2015
73. Remember Our National Symbol 6/15/2015
74. Shotguns and Real Advice 6/17/2015
75. President Obama Politicizes A Shooting 6/22/2015
76. Honor Porter Rockwell's Birthday 6/24/2015
77. Range Bags 6/24/2015
78. Concealed Carry: Making Carry Easier 6/26/2015
July (18)
79. Happy 4th 7/4/2015
80. EDC: The Basics 7/7/2015
81. China and Personal Information Security 7/8/2015
82. Trigger Control 7/8/2015
83. Gun Maintenance: Step Of Cleaning a Gun 7/10/2015
84. Family Security: Why I Carry 7/13/2015
85. Radio Controlled Aircraft for Intel and Security 7/14/2015
86. Concealed Carry: Train Like You Mean It! 7/14/2015
87. Concealed Carry: Changing Your Clothes 7/14/2015
88. Choosing Home Defense Ammunition 7/14/2015
89. Training: Jeff Cooper's Drills 7/15/2015
90. Remember the Mormon Battalion 7/16/2015
91. Travel Security: Flying With A Weapon 7/23/2015
92. Field Medicine: Tourniquets 7/23/2015
93. Concealed Carry and Open Carry: Which? 7/24/2015
94. Happy 24th of July! 7/25/2015
95. Family Security: Preparedness In Home Security 7/27/2015
96. Color Code: Always Stay In Yellow 7/27/2015
97. Politics, Boy Scouts, And The LDS Church 7/29/2015
August (17)
98. Gun Safety and Kids 8/4/2015
99. Concealed Carry Mistakes Review 8/4/2105
100. Concealed Carry: Be A Smooth Operator 8/4/2015
101. Training: Trigger Press 8/5/2015
102. Trigger Pull 8/5/2015
103. Vigilance and "Some Sort of War" 8/6/2015
104. Urban Survival: The Basics 8/6/2015
105. Do You Red Team? 8/7/2015
106. Concealed Carry: Part of a Man’s Responsibility 8/17/2015
107. Preparedness Skill: Dead Drop 8/24/2015
108. Concealed Carry Skill: Gunfights 8/24/2015
109. Hoplophobia: How To Talk to Anti-Gunners 8/25/2015
110. Shooting Skills: Basics of Marksmanship 8/26/2015
111. Concealed Carry in a Crowd 8/27/2015
112. Concealed Carry Skill: Gunfights Part 2 8/28/2015
113. Trigger Press Basics 8/28/2015
114. Safety Again 8/28/2015
September 2015 (13)
115. Skills We Should Improve 9/1/2015
116. Privacy: It's More Than Closing Your Blinds 9/2/2015
117. 9-11 Remembered and OPR Philosophy 9/11/2015
118. Beginning to Hate Mainstream Media: Finding Real News 9/11/2015
119. Water Storage: Chlorination 9/11/2015
120. Concealed Carry: Deadly Shooting Errors 9/11/2015
121. Moving And Shooting: From Choirboy 9/14/2015
122. Skills: Fire Building Is Not As Easy As It Looks 9/15/2015
123. The Best Medicine For Preparedness 9/16/2015
124. Philosophy Of Use For EDC and BOB 9/24/2015
125. Self-defense Rules 9/24/2015
126. Target Recognition: Flashlights 9/28/2015
127. Review: Leatherman Wingman Multi-tool for EDC 9/28/2015
October 2015 (17)
128. Surviving A Hijacking 10/2/2015
129. ISIS Threatens Military Members: Lessen You Footprint 10/6/2015
130. Skills: Situational Awareness Like Jason Bourne 10/8/2015
131. Active Shooter "Training" 10/9/2015
132. Abraham Lincoln and Guns 10/9/2015
133. The Man Behind The Man: Jonathan Browning 10/10/2015
134. The Guns of The United States Border Patrol 10/11/2015
135. You Know You're A Concealed Carry Nut When... 10/14/2015
136. Self Defense: Never Surrender 10/14/2015
137. Gun Retention 10/14/2015
138. First Gun: Gun “Action” Speaks Louder Than Words 10/15/2015
139. No More, No More Mr. Nice Guy 10/16/2015
140. Skills: Clearing Your Home 10/19/2015
141. Practicing Situation Awareness With Drills 10/22/2015
142. Concealed Carry: NPE (Non Permissive Environment) 10/27/2015
143. The Top Gun Survey Says... Baloney! 10/28/2015
144. On Being Violent: Your Violence Threshold 10/30/2015
November 2015 (14)
145. Concealed Carry: The Art Of De-escalation 11/2/2015
146. Bug Out Bag: Packing Your Bag 11/3/2015
147. Skills: Ammunition Reloading 11/4/2015
148. LDS and Liberal? I say unto you, Nay 11/7/2015
149. Lessons From Fort Hood 11/9/2015
150. Come Clean: Maintaining Your Carry Gun 11/10/2015
151. Veteran's Day: Remember With Reverence 11/12/2015
152. Guns and Preparation 11/13/2015
153. How To Recognize A Bomber 11/13/2015
154. France, Freedom, and Security 11/17/2015
155. Who Protects You? Self-Defense and The Family 11/19/2015
156. Family Security Planning 11/22/2015
157. Concealed Carry: Dealing With Terrorism 11/23/2015
158. Being Prepared "Legally" 11/25/2015
December 2015 (10)
159. Privacy: Back To Cash 12/2/2015
161. Day Of Infamy 12/7/2015
162. Violence and Doing What Is Right 12/8/2015
163. Guns Criminals Carry 12/9/2015
164. Dry Fire: Cheap, Effective Training 12/9/2015
165. A Voice of Warning 12/11/2015
166. Kids Skills 12/15/2015
167. Building First Aid Kits 12/16/2015
168. The Danites 12/16/2015
169. A Good Time To Reflect 12/25/2015
JAN 2015 (16)
1. A New Year: Planning like Moroni 1/5/2015
2. The “Editor” Vetting Process 1/8/2015
3. French Terrorism and Your Threat Response 1/12/2015
4. LDS Gunsite Index 2014 1/13/2015
5. French Terrorism Analysis 1/14/2015
6. Concealed Carry: Carrying In The Winter Cold 1/14/2015
7. Concealed Carry: Reasons To Carry 1/16/2014
8. Gear Review: The Versatile Shemagh 1/19/2015
9. Review: Goal Zero Nomad 7 Solar Charger 1/20/2015
10. Father Of Delta Force David Beckwith 1/23/2015
11. Happy Birthday John Browning 1/23/2015
12. Happy Birthday John Boyd: The OODA Loop 1/23/2015
13. LDS Gunsite Turns 1! 1/24/2015
14. Preparedness: A Desperate Appeal 1/26/2015
15. Situational Awareness: The OODA Loop In Action 1/27/2015
16. Home Defense: Shotguns and Very Bad Advice 1/27/2015
FEB 2015 (13)
17. Happy Chris Kyle Day! 2/2/2015
18. Review: Preppers Matrix 2/2/2015
19. An Appeal: Please Join LDS Gunsite 2/2/2015
20. Concealed Carry: Become A Crimefighter With Knowledge 2/9/2015
21. Family Security: What I’d Teach My Kids About Security 2/12/2015
22. Mormon Outlaw: Butch Cassidy’s Gun 2/20/2015
23. Building A Medic Bag 2/20/2015
24. Muscle Memory and Training 2/20/2015
25. Review: You Tube Channel-Nutnfancy 2/23/2015
26. Family Security: Data Mining and COMSEC/OPSEC 2/26/2015
27. Who's Watching You?: Paying Attention and Surveillance 2/27/2015
28. Improvised Weapons: Fire Extinguisher 2/27/2015
29. Prepare With Training: Visualization 2/27/2015
MAR (13)
30. Security Smarts 3/2/2015
31. Defensive Gun Myths 3/3/2015
32. Home Defense: The "Fire Extinguisher Gun" 3/3/2015
33. Developing Situational Awareness Part 1 3/4/2015
34. The Most Important Preparedness Item 3/5/2015
35. Developing Situational Awareness Part 2 (200th Post) 3/5/2015
36. Developing Situational Awareness Part 3 3/6/2015
37. Concealed Carry: Train The Basics of Gun Defense 3/11/2015
38. Gun Terms: Don't Be An Idiot 3/12/2015
39. Choosing A Self-Defense Pen 3/18/2015
40. Medical: Wound Care Kit 3/18/2015
41. Concealed Carry/Home Defense: Verbal Warnings 3/26/2015
42. Basic of Knives and Knife Points 3/31/2015
APR (13)
43. Training: Creating A Training Plan 4/3/2015
44. Concealed Carry: Defense As A Couple 4/7/2015
45. Remembering Chris Kyle 4/8/2015
46. Old Glory 4/9/2015
47. Mutual Security or Defending With A Partner 4/10/2015
48. 5 Guns That Helped Shape The History of The Church and West 4/13/2015
49. EDC: Important Part Of Preparation 4/13/2015
50. Should You Hide Guns and Ammo? 4/14/2015
51. OP Rockwell Philosophy 4/16/2015
52. The Eternal Question: How Much Ammo? 4/20/2015
53. Survival Knots 4/20/2015
54. Responsible Self Defense 4/28/2015
55. Riot Security and Safety 4/29/2015
May (11)
56. Helping Someone Choose A Gun 5/1/2015
57. Water Storage – Myth vs. Fact 5/18/2015
58. Remembering John Dean "Jeff" Cooper 5/18/2015
60. Reason For Self-Defense 5/18/2015
61. Benefits of Dry Fire 5/19/2015
62. Remembering Bill Jordan and Carlos Hathcock 5/19/2015
63. Bikers, Police Protection, and Your Security 5/20/2015
64. Memorial Day 5/26/2015
65. The Cost of Stupidity: Law Enforcement and Us 5/27/2015
66. How To Achieve Security At Church 5/28/2015
67. Training: Force On Force and Airsoft 5/28/2015
June (11)
68. Oaths and Our Word 6/1/2015
69. Concealed Carry: Use of Force Continuum 6/3/2015
70. Less Than Lethal Ideas and Monkey Fists 6/5/2015
71. Security At An ATM 6/5/2015
72. 9mm Ammunition 6/12/2015
73. Remember Our National Symbol 6/15/2015
74. Shotguns and Real Advice 6/17/2015
75. President Obama Politicizes A Shooting 6/22/2015
76. Honor Porter Rockwell's Birthday 6/24/2015
77. Range Bags 6/24/2015
78. Concealed Carry: Making Carry Easier 6/26/2015
July (18)
79. Happy 4th 7/4/2015
80. EDC: The Basics 7/7/2015
81. China and Personal Information Security 7/8/2015
82. Trigger Control 7/8/2015
83. Gun Maintenance: Step Of Cleaning a Gun 7/10/2015
84. Family Security: Why I Carry 7/13/2015
85. Radio Controlled Aircraft for Intel and Security 7/14/2015
86. Concealed Carry: Train Like You Mean It! 7/14/2015
87. Concealed Carry: Changing Your Clothes 7/14/2015
88. Choosing Home Defense Ammunition 7/14/2015
89. Training: Jeff Cooper's Drills 7/15/2015
90. Remember the Mormon Battalion 7/16/2015
91. Travel Security: Flying With A Weapon 7/23/2015
92. Field Medicine: Tourniquets 7/23/2015
93. Concealed Carry and Open Carry: Which? 7/24/2015
94. Happy 24th of July! 7/25/2015
95. Family Security: Preparedness In Home Security 7/27/2015
96. Color Code: Always Stay In Yellow 7/27/2015
97. Politics, Boy Scouts, And The LDS Church 7/29/2015
August (17)
98. Gun Safety and Kids 8/4/2015
99. Concealed Carry Mistakes Review 8/4/2105
100. Concealed Carry: Be A Smooth Operator 8/4/2015
101. Training: Trigger Press 8/5/2015
102. Trigger Pull 8/5/2015
103. Vigilance and "Some Sort of War" 8/6/2015
104. Urban Survival: The Basics 8/6/2015
105. Do You Red Team? 8/7/2015
106. Concealed Carry: Part of a Man’s Responsibility 8/17/2015
107. Preparedness Skill: Dead Drop 8/24/2015
108. Concealed Carry Skill: Gunfights 8/24/2015
109. Hoplophobia: How To Talk to Anti-Gunners 8/25/2015
110. Shooting Skills: Basics of Marksmanship 8/26/2015
111. Concealed Carry in a Crowd 8/27/2015
112. Concealed Carry Skill: Gunfights Part 2 8/28/2015
113. Trigger Press Basics 8/28/2015
114. Safety Again 8/28/2015
September 2015 (13)
115. Skills We Should Improve 9/1/2015
116. Privacy: It's More Than Closing Your Blinds 9/2/2015
117. 9-11 Remembered and OPR Philosophy 9/11/2015
118. Beginning to Hate Mainstream Media: Finding Real News 9/11/2015
119. Water Storage: Chlorination 9/11/2015
120. Concealed Carry: Deadly Shooting Errors 9/11/2015
121. Moving And Shooting: From Choirboy 9/14/2015
122. Skills: Fire Building Is Not As Easy As It Looks 9/15/2015
123. The Best Medicine For Preparedness 9/16/2015
124. Philosophy Of Use For EDC and BOB 9/24/2015
125. Self-defense Rules 9/24/2015
126. Target Recognition: Flashlights 9/28/2015
127. Review: Leatherman Wingman Multi-tool for EDC 9/28/2015
October 2015 (17)
128. Surviving A Hijacking 10/2/2015
129. ISIS Threatens Military Members: Lessen You Footprint 10/6/2015
130. Skills: Situational Awareness Like Jason Bourne 10/8/2015
131. Active Shooter "Training" 10/9/2015
132. Abraham Lincoln and Guns 10/9/2015
133. The Man Behind The Man: Jonathan Browning 10/10/2015
134. The Guns of The United States Border Patrol 10/11/2015
135. You Know You're A Concealed Carry Nut When... 10/14/2015
136. Self Defense: Never Surrender 10/14/2015
137. Gun Retention 10/14/2015
138. First Gun: Gun “Action” Speaks Louder Than Words 10/15/2015
139. No More, No More Mr. Nice Guy 10/16/2015
140. Skills: Clearing Your Home 10/19/2015
141. Practicing Situation Awareness With Drills 10/22/2015
142. Concealed Carry: NPE (Non Permissive Environment) 10/27/2015
143. The Top Gun Survey Says... Baloney! 10/28/2015
144. On Being Violent: Your Violence Threshold 10/30/2015
November 2015 (14)
145. Concealed Carry: The Art Of De-escalation 11/2/2015
146. Bug Out Bag: Packing Your Bag 11/3/2015
147. Skills: Ammunition Reloading 11/4/2015
148. LDS and Liberal? I say unto you, Nay 11/7/2015
149. Lessons From Fort Hood 11/9/2015
150. Come Clean: Maintaining Your Carry Gun 11/10/2015
151. Veteran's Day: Remember With Reverence 11/12/2015
152. Guns and Preparation 11/13/2015
153. How To Recognize A Bomber 11/13/2015
154. France, Freedom, and Security 11/17/2015
155. Who Protects You? Self-Defense and The Family 11/19/2015
156. Family Security Planning 11/22/2015
157. Concealed Carry: Dealing With Terrorism 11/23/2015
158. Being Prepared "Legally" 11/25/2015
December 2015 (10)
159. Privacy: Back To Cash 12/2/2015
161. Day Of Infamy 12/7/2015
162. Violence and Doing What Is Right 12/8/2015
163. Guns Criminals Carry 12/9/2015
164. Dry Fire: Cheap, Effective Training 12/9/2015
165. A Voice of Warning 12/11/2015
166. Kids Skills 12/15/2015
167. Building First Aid Kits 12/16/2015
168. The Danites 12/16/2015
169. A Good Time To Reflect 12/25/2015
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