Memorial Day was not very good for me this year. For many people it’s a day off from work or school and I understand that. Until fighting for freedom touches your life directly, it’s hard to understand and remember the sacrifice made. I got an e-mail from a friend of mine. We served together even though we were only brought together by circumstance and training. We fought next to each other and I feel I can trust him with my life, because I have trusted him with my life. He told me about his Memorial Day.
It was not very good. He had a couple phone calls and e-mails that just brought so many hard memories of long lost friends. I work on a DOD base and in my e-mail I received a “Happy Memorial Day” greeting from some higher ranking member who talked about remembering freedom is not free, and other things. I understood what the message was for. But to wish someone a Happy Memorial Day is like seeing someone on the day of their Mother’s funeral and saying “Happy Funeral Day!” My friend was a little bitter about having this day to remember. For most people it is a day to remember those who have paid the ultimate sacrifice. For others it’s a time that dredges up memories that are often buried. I don’t want you to think I’m the crazy vet with the 1000 yard stare. Most of the time I’m a pretty fun guy to be around. I think I’ve replaced some pain with humor as a defense mechanism. My experience was deadly but fairly short in comparison to some military members who go through several tours and deployments. So my 1000 yard stare is more like 2 yards. (see what I said about humor?) But many of my friends have had years of horror and boredom. (Definition of warfare has been said as “Months of boredom punctuated by moments of extreme terror.") So, as their brief brother in arms, I have an understanding of some of their feelings and thoughts. My experience was shots fired in anger. And returning fire. I lost a friend because of about 12 inches. A different trajectory and someone else is writing this. I did first aid on him hoping to heaven his wife and kids would not have to endure those memories on Memorial Day.
But I have good memories also of those I served with. I’m grateful for their friendship and their brotherhood. It’s amazing to me to see how people react and act in a difficult situation. Some of the ones you thought would do well cower in the corner and others step up when you thought they would run.
Memorial Day needs to be a solemn remembrance of the brave Americans who have laid down their lives for the freedom we cherish. Frankly, the mere act of putting on the uniform isn’t heroic. As Americans, we have begun to overuse the word ‘hero‘. I stand by my claim that the real heroes are the men and women who don t come home. Memorial Day is for them.
Actually Memorial Day can be a day celebrating the freedom that many have died to protect. If celebrating our freedom, just remember that for some who were there, the memories are not that sweet.
Here’s a copy of the e-mail I replied to concerning the above “Happy Memorial Day” message:
Ma'am,
I just wanted to comment on your "Happy Memorial Day" wishes. Please take this with all the respect I can give to you for your service and the important job you do. I do not want this to seem a disrespectful or angry comment. It is one I've thought about for the last few days and considered not even sending.
I understand that you were giving your troops thanks and wishing them a good holiday. I think that is needed and great! But please remember that for some Memorial Day is not very happy. I had a message from a good friend of mine where he was struggling with the memory we share of an experience where we lost some friends. He was lamenting on why we have to have a day to remember when we're trying to forget. I know he knows the reason for this day and he would agree it is better to have the day than to forget, for most people. Let's try and remember those who survived the defense of this country and what they live with. Memorial Day is more than time off. I'm also one who hates political correctness. If there was one thing I learned in the military, it was that being clear and concise sometimes ruffles feathers. But I also feel we should be as kind as we can.
Again Ma'am I thank you for your service. Sometimes being in the military feels like just a job, but it is always in defense of all we hold dear.
Thank you,
Semper Paratus
Check 6
Burn
Wednesday, May 30, 2018
Tuesday, May 22, 2018
Do We Want Our Schools Secure, Or Not?
We’ve had another shooting in a school. 8 high school kids and 2 teachers were killed before the kid gave up. He had planned on shooting himself but he said he couldn’t do it. The same comments from the kids that witnessed these horrible acts and lived through it. “I never thought this could happen here.”
Well, do we want our kids secure in schools or not? My answer to that is we do not. Columbine was the wake-up call. That was in 1999. Almost 20 years later I’m hearing the same crap from the liberals: “It’s the NRA’s fault.” Or the same crap from the right: “It costs too much money.” What it comes down to it, it’s OUR fault. After 20 years we can’t hardly get past the thought that our kids are not safe. We put little Band-Aids on the problem or lay blame and it continues.
Let me make a prediction here and you see if it plays out. Unless we get serious, and I mean serious, about securing our schools, this will continue. I know it can’t be completely eliminated. Someone will figure out a way around any security measure you can come up with. But what is being done is not enough. I know that many worry about making our schools “prisons”. I will ask it again, Do you want to secure our schools or not?
I’ve heard many whine about arming teachers. I guess they think that’s going too far. That is too much for the safety of our kids. Again I ask, Do you want to secure our schools or not? I would think that any price, any discomfort, any hassle, any perception of how it looks, is a price that we would be willing to pay. Why can’t these measures be universal in all schools?
Some may say I’m being unrealistic. OK, if I am then what is the reality? Not enough funds? Find a way to cut administration costs, put in the security we need AND give teachers a raise. Would you and I pay more taxes for the security of our kids? Where do I sign? I have a large bunch of kids and we did not avail ourselves to the public or private school system. We homeschooled them all. But my taxes didn’t go down. I’d be willing to pay more.
This is a description of Israeli schools.
“The Israeli schools aren’t bunkers. Really, they aren’t. However, each one of these schools does has subsurface shelters. Not only this, but schools and kindergartens all over the country are regularly practicing the evacuation of students in different scenarios. This includes earthquakes, rocket attacks, unknown threats or even CBRN in some rare occasions. Keep in mind that these drills get students to take initiative, rather than just having them run to safety.
Currently, most Israeli school premises are completely fenced in and usually with only one gate. In the cases of bigger schools, there might be a few additional gates. In addition, there are two to three emergency gates which are locked (and look like normal fences) during regular, non-emergency hours. School parking lots are often located a bit further away from the school structures.
As for the gates: each gate is accompanied by a small guard cabin and an armed guard. He or she meets a certain standard to carry and do their job. The static guard is funded and under the responsibility of the Israeli police (though they are a sub-contractor and not a cop). The guard is mostly to be the first responder, but also logs traffic, maintains situational awareness and conducts hourly patrols along the school fences. In my experience as a kid, the presence of such a figure was not only practical, but also a psychological boost as us kids felt safer. That was also the first time I learned how a Glock works, but that was not really any part of the school educational program.
According to the official standard of the government, the guard will:
• Ensure that the premises is locked and under control in all time.
• Sweep and search any person who comes in.
• Have security authority.
• Ensure that foreign individuals are fully ID’d and their personal details are logged. Foreign vehicles must be documented as well.
• Assist the school occupants.
• Be aware on anything within the immediate environment of the school.”
These are just a few things that can be done. Cameras are a good idea. There are many other ideas out that some schools are doing.
As I’ve mentioned in the last article about the last mass school murder, as parents, make sure your children have some training. Don’t wait for the school. There are many videos out there about dealing with an active shooter event. You don’t have to scare them, but kids are better equipped than we think to handle this reality. Teach them situational awareness and to know where they are and what is going on around them. Do students, teachers, and staff know what real gunshots sound like in their school? What is so hard about that training? The same old crap is being said after a shooting, “I thought it was a car backfire or something else.” My kids know what gunshots sound like with and without hearing protection, indoors and outdoors. Some of my kids can tell you what different calibers sound like. My son can tell the difference between an AK and AR sound. Can you? Would that not be advantageous?
We need to stop worrying about a “safe space” and train our kids what to do and where to go. Their feelings matter little when their friends are being massacred. STOP coddling our kids!! Be serious about making them safe. Talk to security professionals. Make serious plans. School security needs to be over-done. Parents and students should demand this! It should not have any political over or under tones. High school kids for gun control is nothing more than political crap! The kids involved are pawns for adults who can’t figure out how to get elected. If the kids that are so ungraciously “demanding” change really cared, they would be asking for secure schools instead of gun control. Sarcastically speaking, I’m particularly impressed with how logical and well-spoken these kids are.
As adults we need to stop waffling and step up to the plate. Do you want to secure our schools or not?
Semper Paratus
Check 6
Burn
Friday, May 18, 2018
Choosing Your Home Defense Handgun
I just got a text today. It said, “What kind of hand gun do you feel is best for home defense?” Pardon the gun pun, but that’s a “loaded” question.
I assume the person was set on a hand gun rather than a long gun so I’ll only address hand guns. Long guns and shot guns are used in home defense but they are a whole other article.
The best way to pick a gun is to shoot it. Which means you may have to test drive several. I would recommend an auto loader action only because of round count. Revolvers are extremely reliable and if you become very good you can reload with moon clips or ammo strips. I am not, but I do like revolvers for other things. I even carried an S&W Airweight once.
My suggestion for choosing a home defense gun is to start practically. Obviously the gun is for home defense but will it also be used as a carry gun? If so, what size gun are you willing to carry? Consider the gun size. Full size, compact, sub-compact. Each of these have their good and bad points. If you carry then maybe a compact or sub-compact would double as a home defense weapon.
After purpose and action I would choose caliber. This will determine size somewhat. There are many opinions about this question. You’ll hear words like “stopping power” and “recoil”. I seem to be more practical about this. I want quantity. I draw the line with caliber at 9mm. I don’t want something of less caliber. I know that shot placement changes everything. If I can shoot an attacker between the eyes it doesn’t really matter what caliber I use. But I also think that under stress and fear I may not function the same as shooting a paper target at the range. In fact I know my accuracy is affected. I like the ballistics of 9mm. .45 ACP is fine but I don’t like the size, weight, cost, and round count in comparison. So that is my recommendation. But if you have small hands, or can’t control the kick, then maybe something smaller is for you. There is the popular .380 or .25 or even .22 caliber. Any gun is better than no gun in my opinion. Be careful about rounds that will through the attacker and the wall behind them. This is another reason why I don’t want to go higher than a 9mm. But any caliber will go through walls and doors in spite of what the movies show you. Reality is that there is very little in an average home that a bullet will not penetrate. Not a coach, a refrigerator, a bed, or a wall is cover. Rifle rounds are even more powerful.
After caliber I would consider round count. There auto load single or double stack magazines. Double stacks are a bulkier, wider gun. But I love it! I like having the option of 13 rounds in the gun. I do own single stacks and their round count is 8. So there’s my difference. Some people have a problem shooting sub-compacts because they are too small. I’ve learned to compensate but they take getting used to.
Next is reliability and price. I know that you can’t put a price on security. I’m cheap so I can. That’s why I put reliability with price. There are many good, quality, hand guns on the market. I have even shot well with a Hi-Point. I found that shooting accurately has more to do with the shooter than the gun. But reliability is a real consideration. I know I will get flak for this but I don’t want a Glock. Many people swear by them and rightly so. They are extremely reliable. I’ve owned them and sold them. I don’t hate on them but I can’t abide the price! There are many other guns out there that will serve me without breaking my budget. I like Smith and Wesson, Ruger, Taurus, and even Kel-Tec. I don’t have to have a Kimber, nice though they are. That is just me, you have to decide.
Purpose
Size
Action
Caliber
Reliability
Price
Storage ability
Remember an important rule if you planning to have a gun for home defense and concealed carry. It has to be comfortable and not a hassle. If it is a big burden you will leave it at home more than you carry it.
Also remember that defending yourself in confined spaces is difficult at best. Add to that stress darkness and then being sure where your rounds end up (it says on a .22 box that they can go a mile!), you need to have some training. Get to know your gun. Practice often and continue training.
In professional circles defending in a small space is called CQB or close quarters battle. It is not real easy but it is quite possible to learn. But you must get competent training. There are even good videos out there although nothing can replace a good instructor. I don’t think you have to know what a SWAT team knows or an operator, but there are some things to know and to practice. Get to know your house, apartment, or dorm room. Know where things are. Be able to walk through your house in the dark without killing yourself. Arrange room furniture so it will be easy for someone who knows the house, but difficult for someone who does not in the dark. If you can, build a safe room, (a solid door, very secure locks, with some concealment, with a little food and water, a flashlight, a phone, possibly an outside exit) to be able to go to in case of emergency. If the room could double as a safe room for natural disasters that would be even better.
In any case, having a good light on your gun or available for target identification is crucial. I can also help blind an attacker. But knowing how and when to use this is important training too. Once that light is on, the attacker has an idea where you are. Never shoot blindly. In combat that might be considered suppressive fire, but in home defense it is a recipe for disaster. I would rather scare a family member than shoot them. Maybe you left your front door open and a drunk neighbor is in your house. Target identification is mandatory and crucial.
Practicing with your gun is important. One class and shooting once or twice a year won’t cut it. Shooting is a perishable skill.
Defending your home and family is your inalienable right. Doing it right is something you don’t want to get wrong. Choosing the gun that is best for you and your situation is not difficult, but requires some preparation.
Semper Paratus
Check 6
Burn
I assume the person was set on a hand gun rather than a long gun so I’ll only address hand guns. Long guns and shot guns are used in home defense but they are a whole other article.
The best way to pick a gun is to shoot it. Which means you may have to test drive several. I would recommend an auto loader action only because of round count. Revolvers are extremely reliable and if you become very good you can reload with moon clips or ammo strips. I am not, but I do like revolvers for other things. I even carried an S&W Airweight once.
My suggestion for choosing a home defense gun is to start practically. Obviously the gun is for home defense but will it also be used as a carry gun? If so, what size gun are you willing to carry? Consider the gun size. Full size, compact, sub-compact. Each of these have their good and bad points. If you carry then maybe a compact or sub-compact would double as a home defense weapon.
After purpose and action I would choose caliber. This will determine size somewhat. There are many opinions about this question. You’ll hear words like “stopping power” and “recoil”. I seem to be more practical about this. I want quantity. I draw the line with caliber at 9mm. I don’t want something of less caliber. I know that shot placement changes everything. If I can shoot an attacker between the eyes it doesn’t really matter what caliber I use. But I also think that under stress and fear I may not function the same as shooting a paper target at the range. In fact I know my accuracy is affected. I like the ballistics of 9mm. .45 ACP is fine but I don’t like the size, weight, cost, and round count in comparison. So that is my recommendation. But if you have small hands, or can’t control the kick, then maybe something smaller is for you. There is the popular .380 or .25 or even .22 caliber. Any gun is better than no gun in my opinion. Be careful about rounds that will through the attacker and the wall behind them. This is another reason why I don’t want to go higher than a 9mm. But any caliber will go through walls and doors in spite of what the movies show you. Reality is that there is very little in an average home that a bullet will not penetrate. Not a coach, a refrigerator, a bed, or a wall is cover. Rifle rounds are even more powerful.
After caliber I would consider round count. There auto load single or double stack magazines. Double stacks are a bulkier, wider gun. But I love it! I like having the option of 13 rounds in the gun. I do own single stacks and their round count is 8. So there’s my difference. Some people have a problem shooting sub-compacts because they are too small. I’ve learned to compensate but they take getting used to.
Next is reliability and price. I know that you can’t put a price on security. I’m cheap so I can. That’s why I put reliability with price. There are many good, quality, hand guns on the market. I have even shot well with a Hi-Point. I found that shooting accurately has more to do with the shooter than the gun. But reliability is a real consideration. I know I will get flak for this but I don’t want a Glock. Many people swear by them and rightly so. They are extremely reliable. I’ve owned them and sold them. I don’t hate on them but I can’t abide the price! There are many other guns out there that will serve me without breaking my budget. I like Smith and Wesson, Ruger, Taurus, and even Kel-Tec. I don’t have to have a Kimber, nice though they are. That is just me, you have to decide.
Purpose
Size
Action
Caliber
Reliability
Price
Storage ability
Remember an important rule if you planning to have a gun for home defense and concealed carry. It has to be comfortable and not a hassle. If it is a big burden you will leave it at home more than you carry it.
Also remember that defending yourself in confined spaces is difficult at best. Add to that stress darkness and then being sure where your rounds end up (it says on a .22 box that they can go a mile!), you need to have some training. Get to know your gun. Practice often and continue training.
In professional circles defending in a small space is called CQB or close quarters battle. It is not real easy but it is quite possible to learn. But you must get competent training. There are even good videos out there although nothing can replace a good instructor. I don’t think you have to know what a SWAT team knows or an operator, but there are some things to know and to practice. Get to know your house, apartment, or dorm room. Know where things are. Be able to walk through your house in the dark without killing yourself. Arrange room furniture so it will be easy for someone who knows the house, but difficult for someone who does not in the dark. If you can, build a safe room, (a solid door, very secure locks, with some concealment, with a little food and water, a flashlight, a phone, possibly an outside exit) to be able to go to in case of emergency. If the room could double as a safe room for natural disasters that would be even better.
In any case, having a good light on your gun or available for target identification is crucial. I can also help blind an attacker. But knowing how and when to use this is important training too. Once that light is on, the attacker has an idea where you are. Never shoot blindly. In combat that might be considered suppressive fire, but in home defense it is a recipe for disaster. I would rather scare a family member than shoot them. Maybe you left your front door open and a drunk neighbor is in your house. Target identification is mandatory and crucial.
Practicing with your gun is important. One class and shooting once or twice a year won’t cut it. Shooting is a perishable skill.
Defending your home and family is your inalienable right. Doing it right is something you don’t want to get wrong. Choosing the gun that is best for you and your situation is not difficult, but requires some preparation.
Semper Paratus
Check 6
Burn
Wednesday, May 16, 2018
Cleaning You EDC Knife/Multi-tool
It’s been a while but the other day someone asked me for a gear check. What’s a gear check? It’s when you empty your pockets, pack, or bag and show how you are situated for emergencies. Some call what they carry every day their EDC or everyday carry. For many years I’ve carried several things with me but one is a knife or multi-tool (or both) My knife or multi-tool is a critical part of my everyday carry. I love it. I cherish it. And maybe I even show if off once in a while…
But when was the last time you cleaned your pocket knife or multi-tool?
If you feel resistance while opening the knife or tools, or can see visible gunk built up in the pivots, then it is has already been too long
Step 1: Remove Lint and Gunk
Using a toothpick, remove any visible bits of gunk you see trapped in the pivots or handle. Don’t worry about doing a thorough cleaning with the toothpick. That will come later.
The knife should always be dry during this first step. If you try to poke out lint while it is wet, it could get more stuck in the pivot and harder to remove later.
If you have compressed air (such as for cleaning computer keyboards) is also good for removing lint from within the knife.
A putty knife may be useful in this step.
Step 2: Wash the Knife with Soapy Water
Now is the time to get your knife really wet and remove any stickiness on it. Pay close attention to the locking mechanism and pivot. You want to make sure any dirt or crud is washed out.
You can use a sponge or soft-bristle toothbrush to wash the knife. However, never use anything abrasive to clean your knife! Not even the abrasive side of the sponge!
I prefer to use q-tips for cleaning the inside parts of the knife. Use a hammer to flatten the end of the q-tip and you’ll be able to get further inside of the knife.
For multi-tools, you’ll need to open and close each tool individually to clean them. Take your time and be sure to clean as you pivot out the tool – some parts of the tool only become exposed as its pivots out.
Step 3: Don’t Be Afraid to Soak the Knife
If your knife has a lot of crud built up in it (you probably waited too long to clean it, huh?), don’t be afraid to give it a good soak in sudsy water.
Use very HOT water as this will dissolve sap, dirt, and other sticky residue. Just don’t do anything foolish like adding boiling water. The water should be hot, but not so hot that it will destroy your knife handle.
I like Dawn dishwashing soap. It’s really good for greasy dirt.
Cover the edge of your knife with masking tape before you scrub it. This will prevent you from accidentally cutting yourself while it is slippery with soap and water. Trust me, those knife cuts really hurt, especially when using the soap!
Step 4: If Any Dirt Remains
For really tough spots, put a few drops of rubbing alcohol on a q-tip and rub off the dirt. The alcohol should evaporate quickly, but I still rinse the spot anyway.
Step 5: Don’t Disassemble the Knife
As tempting as it can be to take apart your knife to get to those bits of gunk in the pivots, do not disassemble!
In almost all cases, disassembling will void your knife warranty. Instead, call the knife company. Some good knife manufacturers will have you send them your knife so they can professionally clean and sharpen it for you.
Step 6: Let the Knife Dry Completely
Yes, COMPLETELY. If even a little bit of moisture is still only your knife, it can lead to corrosion or destroy the handle (especially in the case of wooden knife handles).
Step 7: If There Is Rust on the Blade
Even “stainless” steel knives can develop rust sometimes. This doesn’t mean that your knife is ruined. When rust forms, it is usually just on the surface. At this point, it likely hasn’t caused any irreparable damage. If you wait too long though, then the rust will cause pitting in the blade and destroy it.
So take care of that rust the moment you see it!
There are a lot of different products on the market for removing rust, some of which are made especially for knives and multi-tools. Two of these are:
Metal Glo and Rust Eraser.
In a pinch, you can use WD-40 however, most pros recommend one of the other products.
To remove the rust, put a small amount of the rust remover on a q-tip. Then rub this onto the affected part of the knife.
Try not to get the rust remover on other parts of the knife! It can be really hard to remove from these areas!
Let the rust remover sit for a few minutes. Then scrub it with a mildly-abrasive pad (the green ones on dish sponges work well – don’t use anything grittier than this).
If you can’t get the rust off in one try, then reapply the rust remover, let it sit, and try again. Be patient! It might take a few tries before the rust is completely removed.
Once you get the rust removed, completely wash and dry the knife again. The last thing you want is traces of rust remover left on your knife.
Step 8: Oil Your Knife
Pocket knives and multi-tools have a lot of moving parts including pivots and locking mechanisms. You’ve got to keep them lubed if they are to work reliably each time.
What Type of Oil to Use on a Knife?
There is a lot of debate about what the best type of oil for a knife is. Here are some points to remember:
• For knives which will be used on food, only use edible oil. So, no WD-40! Mineral oil is a good option.
• For knives which will not be used on food, 3-in-1 oil works great. Break-free CLP gun cleaner is another great choice.
• Avoid vegetable oil and motor oil.
• To prevent dust and debris from sticking to your knife, consider using a “dry” lubricant. One option is Finish Line Dry Teflon. Bike stores have many types of dry lubricants. Firearm stores are also a good place to find quality lube.
• If you don’t mind paying extra for a quality knife lube, consider the brands FirePower FP-10, or Sentry Solutions Tuf-Glide. Both are highly recommended and don’t attract dirt.
Applying the Oil
The most important thing to remember is that you only need a tiny drop of oil for your knife. Putting too much oil on your knife will actually attract dirt and can lead to corrosion.
To apply the oil:
• Apply the oil as close to the center of the pivot and locking mechanism as possible.
• If the bottle doesn’t have a mechanism for delivering the oil precisely, use a toothpick to apply the oil.
• An even better method of applying oil is to get a 1cc medical syringe.
• After applying the oil, open and close the knife so the oil gets worked into the pivot.
• Don’t get oil on the handle! It will make it very slippery. Rubber handles will especially absorb the oil and could make them slippery for a very long time.
How Often to Oil?
This depends on how often you use your knife.
• Always oil your knife after cleaning it.
• When not using a knife, oil it every 2-3 months.
• You’ll need to oil the knife more often if it is humid or you’re near salt water.
• Always oil your knives before storing them.
If you follow some simple guidelines for your EDC knives or multi’s your tools will last a life time.
Semper Paratus
Check 6
Burn
But when was the last time you cleaned your pocket knife or multi-tool?
If you feel resistance while opening the knife or tools, or can see visible gunk built up in the pivots, then it is has already been too long
Step 1: Remove Lint and Gunk
Using a toothpick, remove any visible bits of gunk you see trapped in the pivots or handle. Don’t worry about doing a thorough cleaning with the toothpick. That will come later.
The knife should always be dry during this first step. If you try to poke out lint while it is wet, it could get more stuck in the pivot and harder to remove later.
If you have compressed air (such as for cleaning computer keyboards) is also good for removing lint from within the knife.
A putty knife may be useful in this step.
Step 2: Wash the Knife with Soapy Water
Now is the time to get your knife really wet and remove any stickiness on it. Pay close attention to the locking mechanism and pivot. You want to make sure any dirt or crud is washed out.
You can use a sponge or soft-bristle toothbrush to wash the knife. However, never use anything abrasive to clean your knife! Not even the abrasive side of the sponge!
I prefer to use q-tips for cleaning the inside parts of the knife. Use a hammer to flatten the end of the q-tip and you’ll be able to get further inside of the knife.
For multi-tools, you’ll need to open and close each tool individually to clean them. Take your time and be sure to clean as you pivot out the tool – some parts of the tool only become exposed as its pivots out.
Step 3: Don’t Be Afraid to Soak the Knife
If your knife has a lot of crud built up in it (you probably waited too long to clean it, huh?), don’t be afraid to give it a good soak in sudsy water.
Use very HOT water as this will dissolve sap, dirt, and other sticky residue. Just don’t do anything foolish like adding boiling water. The water should be hot, but not so hot that it will destroy your knife handle.
I like Dawn dishwashing soap. It’s really good for greasy dirt.
Cover the edge of your knife with masking tape before you scrub it. This will prevent you from accidentally cutting yourself while it is slippery with soap and water. Trust me, those knife cuts really hurt, especially when using the soap!
Step 4: If Any Dirt Remains
For really tough spots, put a few drops of rubbing alcohol on a q-tip and rub off the dirt. The alcohol should evaporate quickly, but I still rinse the spot anyway.
Step 5: Don’t Disassemble the Knife
As tempting as it can be to take apart your knife to get to those bits of gunk in the pivots, do not disassemble!
In almost all cases, disassembling will void your knife warranty. Instead, call the knife company. Some good knife manufacturers will have you send them your knife so they can professionally clean and sharpen it for you.
Step 6: Let the Knife Dry Completely
Yes, COMPLETELY. If even a little bit of moisture is still only your knife, it can lead to corrosion or destroy the handle (especially in the case of wooden knife handles).
Step 7: If There Is Rust on the Blade
Even “stainless” steel knives can develop rust sometimes. This doesn’t mean that your knife is ruined. When rust forms, it is usually just on the surface. At this point, it likely hasn’t caused any irreparable damage. If you wait too long though, then the rust will cause pitting in the blade and destroy it.
So take care of that rust the moment you see it!
There are a lot of different products on the market for removing rust, some of which are made especially for knives and multi-tools. Two of these are:
Metal Glo and Rust Eraser.
In a pinch, you can use WD-40 however, most pros recommend one of the other products.
To remove the rust, put a small amount of the rust remover on a q-tip. Then rub this onto the affected part of the knife.
Try not to get the rust remover on other parts of the knife! It can be really hard to remove from these areas!
Let the rust remover sit for a few minutes. Then scrub it with a mildly-abrasive pad (the green ones on dish sponges work well – don’t use anything grittier than this).
If you can’t get the rust off in one try, then reapply the rust remover, let it sit, and try again. Be patient! It might take a few tries before the rust is completely removed.
Once you get the rust removed, completely wash and dry the knife again. The last thing you want is traces of rust remover left on your knife.
Step 8: Oil Your Knife
Pocket knives and multi-tools have a lot of moving parts including pivots and locking mechanisms. You’ve got to keep them lubed if they are to work reliably each time.
What Type of Oil to Use on a Knife?
There is a lot of debate about what the best type of oil for a knife is. Here are some points to remember:
• For knives which will be used on food, only use edible oil. So, no WD-40! Mineral oil is a good option.
• For knives which will not be used on food, 3-in-1 oil works great. Break-free CLP gun cleaner is another great choice.
• Avoid vegetable oil and motor oil.
• To prevent dust and debris from sticking to your knife, consider using a “dry” lubricant. One option is Finish Line Dry Teflon. Bike stores have many types of dry lubricants. Firearm stores are also a good place to find quality lube.
• If you don’t mind paying extra for a quality knife lube, consider the brands FirePower FP-10, or Sentry Solutions Tuf-Glide. Both are highly recommended and don’t attract dirt.
Applying the Oil
The most important thing to remember is that you only need a tiny drop of oil for your knife. Putting too much oil on your knife will actually attract dirt and can lead to corrosion.
To apply the oil:
• Apply the oil as close to the center of the pivot and locking mechanism as possible.
• If the bottle doesn’t have a mechanism for delivering the oil precisely, use a toothpick to apply the oil.
• An even better method of applying oil is to get a 1cc medical syringe.
• After applying the oil, open and close the knife so the oil gets worked into the pivot.
• Don’t get oil on the handle! It will make it very slippery. Rubber handles will especially absorb the oil and could make them slippery for a very long time.
How Often to Oil?
This depends on how often you use your knife.
• Always oil your knife after cleaning it.
• When not using a knife, oil it every 2-3 months.
• You’ll need to oil the knife more often if it is humid or you’re near salt water.
• Always oil your knives before storing them.
If you follow some simple guidelines for your EDC knives or multi’s your tools will last a life time.
Semper Paratus
Check 6
Burn
Friday, May 11, 2018
Overwatch: Drill of the Month
May 2018
Hackathorn Standards (pistol, 60 rounds) Ken Hackathorn
3 IPSC targets 1 meter apart and staggered heights.
5 yards - 1 round to each head freestyle. 3 secs
5 yards - 1 round to each head strong hand only. 4 secs
5 yards - 1 round to each body strong hand only. 3 secs twice
8 yards - 2 rounds to the body left target. 2 secs
8 yards - 2 rounds to the body middle target. 2 secs
8 yards - 2 rounds to the body right target. 2 secs
10 yards - El presidente (facing up range, turn and fire 2-2-2, reload, 2-2-2) 10 secs
10 yards - Weak hand pick up (pistol on ground, butt strong side.
Flip pistol with weak hand and fire 1 round per target to each body.) 5 secs
12 to 8 yards - Shoot on the move, 2 to each body 5 secs
15 yards - transition drill, 1 to each body 4 secs
20 yards - standing to prone, 2 to each body 10 secs
25 yards - using vertical cover and tactical order, 2 to each body tactical/retention reload, kneeling, 2 to each body. 24 secs
5 points for an A, 3 points for a C and 2 points for a D. 300 total possible points.
(275 is instructor score)
Ken Hackathorn has served as a US Army Special Forces Small Arms Instructor, Gunsite Instructor, and NRA Police Firearms Instructor. He is currently an FBI Certified Firearms Instructor, Certified Deputy Sheriff with Washington County SO, Ohio, and a SRT member and Special Response Team trainer. Ken has trained US Military Special Operations forces, Marine FAST and SOTG units and is a contract small arms trainer to FBI SWAT and HRT.
Ken has provided training to Federal, State, and local law enforcement agencies and been active in small arms training for the past 25 years. He has written firearms related material for Guns & Ammo, Combat Handguns, Soldier Of Fortune, and currently American Handgunner and contributed to at least six other gun/shooting journals. Ken was also a founding member of IPSC and IDPA.
Hackathorn Standards (pistol, 60 rounds) Ken Hackathorn
3 IPSC targets 1 meter apart and staggered heights.
5 yards - 1 round to each head freestyle. 3 secs
5 yards - 1 round to each head strong hand only. 4 secs
5 yards - 1 round to each body strong hand only. 3 secs twice
8 yards - 2 rounds to the body left target. 2 secs
8 yards - 2 rounds to the body middle target. 2 secs
8 yards - 2 rounds to the body right target. 2 secs
10 yards - El presidente (facing up range, turn and fire 2-2-2, reload, 2-2-2) 10 secs
10 yards - Weak hand pick up (pistol on ground, butt strong side.
Flip pistol with weak hand and fire 1 round per target to each body.) 5 secs
12 to 8 yards - Shoot on the move, 2 to each body 5 secs
15 yards - transition drill, 1 to each body 4 secs
20 yards - standing to prone, 2 to each body 10 secs
25 yards - using vertical cover and tactical order, 2 to each body tactical/retention reload, kneeling, 2 to each body. 24 secs
5 points for an A, 3 points for a C and 2 points for a D. 300 total possible points.
(275 is instructor score)
Ken Hackathorn has served as a US Army Special Forces Small Arms Instructor, Gunsite Instructor, and NRA Police Firearms Instructor. He is currently an FBI Certified Firearms Instructor, Certified Deputy Sheriff with Washington County SO, Ohio, and a SRT member and Special Response Team trainer. Ken has trained US Military Special Operations forces, Marine FAST and SOTG units and is a contract small arms trainer to FBI SWAT and HRT.
Ken has provided training to Federal, State, and local law enforcement agencies and been active in small arms training for the past 25 years. He has written firearms related material for Guns & Ammo, Combat Handguns, Soldier Of Fortune, and currently American Handgunner and contributed to at least six other gun/shooting journals. Ken was also a founding member of IPSC and IDPA.
Boy Scouting Caves and Caves
To quote the Beatles, “I heard the news today, Oh boy”. The news I heard was that the LDS Church would be pulling out of Boy Scouts for good by the end of 2019. No more affiliation. If you’ve been reading these posts you will know that I saw it coming. I had wished last year that the Church would have pulled out of Scouting but now that it’s eminent I’m still heart broken. I know that seems ironic but that’s how I feel. I love the Boy Scouting program (I refuse to not use the word “Boy”). I was a Cub Scout in the 60’s, a Boy Scout in the 70’s, then in 1986 I became a Boy Scout leader. My boy’s started their scouting careers in 1990. Our youngest boy just achieved his Eagle last year. We had a boy somewhere in the scouting program for 27 straight years. I have served in every calling in Scouting and Young Men at one time or another. I’m deeply immersed in this great program. But the program has started to cave to “popular” values. I want to say that some of these changes I agree with, and some I don’t. But the fact is, Boy Scouts of America is a private organization that can choose whomever they want to be in it. I just think they caved to social baloney and in the first case, civil rights groups. In 1988 BSA allowed women to be Scoutmasters. I have nothing against women, but a woman was never a boy.
This was their policy:
"Boy Scouts of America," the group said, "believes that homosexual conduct is inconsistent with the obligations in the Scout Oath and Scout Law to be morally straight and clean in thought, word and deed."
Then in 2013 they caved again. Gay boys could join. I’m not sure boys have any idea about their sexuality but what do I know?
Then openly gay men wanted to become leaders. Now what? Robert Gates, who was Defense Secretary for President Obama, and who was BSA President said this about not allowing gays to be leaders.
"I truly fear that any other alternative will be the end of us as a national movement," Gates said in a 2015 speech.
So in 2015 BSA’s board sided with Gates. They caved again and allowed gay leaders in BSA. I think Mr Gates was right, that was the end of that national movement.
Do you see a pattern here? Back then I said this would be the end of the Church involved with BSA. The Church hung in there.
Then it was the trans-genders turn. In January 2017 BSA caved again. Now they were “all inclusive.”
Next up, girls. My opinion is the move to allow girls in the BSA was driven monetarily. Their membership is down and they needed a boost. They have gone too far for the Church to put all that money into a dying program. When you cave in time and time again your foundation gets weak. The LDS church was the foundation. Dropping the word “Boy” from Boy Scouting is a feeble attempt to make it all come together. I was never really impressed with Boy Scout professionals. I’m not saying they are bad, but when you are involved with Boy Scouting to get a paycheck I think it changes the way you look at the program. And then you start to get political and then changes like the ones above happen. It makes me very sad.
The church is going to pull their 33,000 boys out of the program in 2019. One in every 6 Scouts were LDS. That is going to leave a large hole. The Church sited different reasons but I feel the moral fiber of Scouting is unraveling. I hope that it survives and I wish the organization well. It had a good run.
Semper Paratus
Check 6
Burn
This was their policy:
"Boy Scouts of America," the group said, "believes that homosexual conduct is inconsistent with the obligations in the Scout Oath and Scout Law to be morally straight and clean in thought, word and deed."
Then in 2013 they caved again. Gay boys could join. I’m not sure boys have any idea about their sexuality but what do I know?
Then openly gay men wanted to become leaders. Now what? Robert Gates, who was Defense Secretary for President Obama, and who was BSA President said this about not allowing gays to be leaders.
"I truly fear that any other alternative will be the end of us as a national movement," Gates said in a 2015 speech.
So in 2015 BSA’s board sided with Gates. They caved again and allowed gay leaders in BSA. I think Mr Gates was right, that was the end of that national movement.
Do you see a pattern here? Back then I said this would be the end of the Church involved with BSA. The Church hung in there.
Then it was the trans-genders turn. In January 2017 BSA caved again. Now they were “all inclusive.”
Next up, girls. My opinion is the move to allow girls in the BSA was driven monetarily. Their membership is down and they needed a boost. They have gone too far for the Church to put all that money into a dying program. When you cave in time and time again your foundation gets weak. The LDS church was the foundation. Dropping the word “Boy” from Boy Scouting is a feeble attempt to make it all come together. I was never really impressed with Boy Scout professionals. I’m not saying they are bad, but when you are involved with Boy Scouting to get a paycheck I think it changes the way you look at the program. And then you start to get political and then changes like the ones above happen. It makes me very sad.
The church is going to pull their 33,000 boys out of the program in 2019. One in every 6 Scouts were LDS. That is going to leave a large hole. The Church sited different reasons but I feel the moral fiber of Scouting is unraveling. I hope that it survives and I wish the organization well. It had a good run.
Semper Paratus
Check 6
Burn
Friday, May 4, 2018
My Rationalization
I’ve heard many different views about carrying a gun in an LDS Church. Some I agree with, others I don’t. I know the Church’s policy and I know the law in Utah. I do not live in Utah though I seem to visit there a lot. I don’t think I have ever advocated for anyone to break the law of any state. I hope that you will be serious enough about carrying a gun that you would give carrying in an LDS Church much thought and prayer. DO NOT break laws! Do not carry in an LDS Church in Utah! I know that is do what I say, not what I do. I will give you my justification for my breaking this policy. I hope you will not misconstrue this to be anything other than my personal business and opinion. I could very well be wrong.
I have been involved with guns for over 40 years. I have been an instructor since 1985. I’ve competed with guns, and have been a certified gunsmith at one time. I don’t know what an expert is, but that would have to be close to my experience. I’ve trained military, law enforcement, private citizens, and family. I feel very comfortable around firearms. I have carried concealed for over 20 years and have been in combat zones. I’m not trying to toot my own horn here but if law enforcement carry in a church, could not their firearm instructor also? Maybe that is rationalization. I don’t think it is.
Let me give you a sample of the reasons I carry at church.
“2 Shot Dead In Mormon Library”
April 16, 1999
“Woman shot to death outside church”
January 6th, 2008
“Mormon bishop fatally shot in California chapel; gunman killed”
Aug. 30 2010
“Police shoot armed man outside LDS temple”
December 26, 2010
“Police: 2 Shot In Parking Lot Of West Side Mormon Temple”
February 26, 2013
“Mormon temple parking-lot shooting: Man who killed wife dies, too”
April 12, 2013
“Son of judge killed himself in Las Vegas LDS temple courtyard”
Nov. 20 2013
“Woman shot outside of church in South Salt Lake”
October 17, 2014
EAGAR, Arizona — An Arizona man is dead and two others injured — including a pregnant woman — after he began shooting at a LDS stake center in Eagar, Arizona, and later at his residence, officials say.
“Suspect killed by police after shooting at Mormon stake center”
May 24 2015
OAKLEY, CA — Two people were shot, and another bludgeoned multiple times, during a large fight between two groups outside the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints while Sunday service was getting out, police said.
June 28, 2015
GILBERT, Ariz. - Gilbert police are looking Wednesday morning for the three men involved in shooting a 19-year-old man at an LDS church Tuesday night.
April 20, 2016
“Police have arrested a 30-year-old Smithfield man, Jason Summers, who is accused of shooting at someone while trying to break into an LDS Church, Thursday night.”
July 8, 2016
Riverside, CA - Girl abducted from Mormon church sexually assaulted in dumpster
June 28, 2017
On November 29 a jihadist media group published an image suggesting San Diego could be in the crosshairs of terrorists this holiday season. The San Diego California Temple in University City appears to be their target of choice. An image of a terrorist holding an assault rifle was superimposed on the Mormon temple, which appears to be on fire. The two towering spires rise up on either side of the jihadist. A statement at the bottom of the image reads, “Coming Soon..#San_Diego.” The words “Coming Soon” are wrapped in Christmas decorations and splattered with red.
November 2017
As you can see these date back to 1999. These are 14 incidents in less than 20 years. The chances are slim that you or I would ever be involved in anything like these incidents. But it’s like a fire. Do we have smoke detectors and fire extinguishers because fires happen many times a week? I have never experienced a fire. So can I throw out those smoke detectors? No, but I must remain vigilant. The same goes for my, and my families, safety and security. We should be vigilant.
Also, I can’t imagine how I would feel if I survived an attack at church, and had the tools, the experience, and the training to have saved lives, and chose something else.
All of these things I use as my “reasons” to not follow policy. Maybe they’re excuses, I don’t know.
You must decide if you are an LDS member and carry, whether you will follow this policy or not. I do not encourage breaking this policy, but I do encourage finding out for yourself.
(See Security In An LDS Church 5/19/2014)
Semper Paratus
Check 6
Burn
I have been involved with guns for over 40 years. I have been an instructor since 1985. I’ve competed with guns, and have been a certified gunsmith at one time. I don’t know what an expert is, but that would have to be close to my experience. I’ve trained military, law enforcement, private citizens, and family. I feel very comfortable around firearms. I have carried concealed for over 20 years and have been in combat zones. I’m not trying to toot my own horn here but if law enforcement carry in a church, could not their firearm instructor also? Maybe that is rationalization. I don’t think it is.
Let me give you a sample of the reasons I carry at church.
“2 Shot Dead In Mormon Library”
April 16, 1999
“Woman shot to death outside church”
January 6th, 2008
“Mormon bishop fatally shot in California chapel; gunman killed”
Aug. 30 2010
“Police shoot armed man outside LDS temple”
December 26, 2010
“Police: 2 Shot In Parking Lot Of West Side Mormon Temple”
February 26, 2013
“Mormon temple parking-lot shooting: Man who killed wife dies, too”
April 12, 2013
“Son of judge killed himself in Las Vegas LDS temple courtyard”
Nov. 20 2013
“Woman shot outside of church in South Salt Lake”
October 17, 2014
EAGAR, Arizona — An Arizona man is dead and two others injured — including a pregnant woman — after he began shooting at a LDS stake center in Eagar, Arizona, and later at his residence, officials say.
“Suspect killed by police after shooting at Mormon stake center”
May 24 2015
OAKLEY, CA — Two people were shot, and another bludgeoned multiple times, during a large fight between two groups outside the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints while Sunday service was getting out, police said.
June 28, 2015
GILBERT, Ariz. - Gilbert police are looking Wednesday morning for the three men involved in shooting a 19-year-old man at an LDS church Tuesday night.
April 20, 2016
“Police have arrested a 30-year-old Smithfield man, Jason Summers, who is accused of shooting at someone while trying to break into an LDS Church, Thursday night.”
July 8, 2016
Riverside, CA - Girl abducted from Mormon church sexually assaulted in dumpster
June 28, 2017
On November 29 a jihadist media group published an image suggesting San Diego could be in the crosshairs of terrorists this holiday season. The San Diego California Temple in University City appears to be their target of choice. An image of a terrorist holding an assault rifle was superimposed on the Mormon temple, which appears to be on fire. The two towering spires rise up on either side of the jihadist. A statement at the bottom of the image reads, “Coming Soon..#San_Diego.” The words “Coming Soon” are wrapped in Christmas decorations and splattered with red.
November 2017
As you can see these date back to 1999. These are 14 incidents in less than 20 years. The chances are slim that you or I would ever be involved in anything like these incidents. But it’s like a fire. Do we have smoke detectors and fire extinguishers because fires happen many times a week? I have never experienced a fire. So can I throw out those smoke detectors? No, but I must remain vigilant. The same goes for my, and my families, safety and security. We should be vigilant.
Also, I can’t imagine how I would feel if I survived an attack at church, and had the tools, the experience, and the training to have saved lives, and chose something else.
All of these things I use as my “reasons” to not follow policy. Maybe they’re excuses, I don’t know.
You must decide if you are an LDS member and carry, whether you will follow this policy or not. I do not encourage breaking this policy, but I do encourage finding out for yourself.
(See Security In An LDS Church 5/19/2014)
Semper Paratus
Check 6
Burn
Tuesday, May 1, 2018
Following Christ and Fighting Evil
I was listening to a talk from the last LDS General Conference. It was a great talk about forgetting yourself and loving others. It got me thinking about the gun I carry and my training with that gun. It even made me think about this website and what I write about. Am I not being a follower of Christ? Am I not relying on my Father in Heaven because I feel the need to defend myself? What about those who do this for a living, military and law enforcement? Well obviously the pros have to do what they have to do.
I was a Bishop years ago and I had a counselor who worked in intel in the Border Patrol. He was exposed to the dregs of society almost constantly. As a counselor he was having a hard time separating his job from his calling. He was looking at most people as dishonest and not very well meaning, even though it just wasn’t so. He was exposed to the worst in people, so he suspected the worst every time he dealt with people. He had to turn off his skepticism and looking for the bad because it wasn’t in the best interest of the ward or himself. To his credit he was able to do this.
When I pass someone on the street I have to make a quick judgement. Now the circumstances make all the difference. Did I just pass them on a crowded street at 1 in the afternoon with traffic and people everywhere? Or was it 2 A.M. on a dark street in a not-so-good neighborhood with no one around?
Being a protector is sometimes a difficult job for a civilian. But if I could prevent someone from getting killed when I have the tool, the training, and the mindset, how could I live with that? I don’t go looking for a fight.
Being a follower of Christ does not mean you shun violence. It means you choose violence only when you must. You don’t look for revenge but to protect. Turning the other cheek does not mean if someone were to kill your child to offer them your other child to be killed also. I don’t think that was the lesson. And if it was, then how do we account for Christ asking His apostles to sell their cloak for a sword when they were going to the garden of Gethsemane? I don’t think Christ would have us give our lives just because evil wants to take it. I think under certain circumstances we should give our lives for our beliefs as many martyrs have done. As we also learn from Christs teaching it is a great honor and it is an ultimate showing of love to lay down your life for others. To me that means we should try and defend ourselves.
God has given us plenty of wonderful freedoms, including, in the United States, the right to bear arms. But there are also plenty of biblical exhortations to give up that right when love obliges us to do so.
It’s all in your attitude. Do you train to fight or train to defend? Are you “men of blood?”
Alma 44:1-23
1 And it came to pass that they did stop and withdrew a pace from them. And Moroni said unto Zerahemnah: Behold, Zerahemnah, that we do not desire to be men of blood. Ye know that ye are in our hands, yet we do not desire to slay you.
2 Behold, we have not come out to battle against you that we might shed your blood for power; neither do we desire to bring any one to the yoke of bondage. But this is the very cause for which ye have come against us; yea, and ye are angry with us because of our religion.
3 But now, ye behold that the Lord is with us; and ye behold that he has delivered you into our hands. And now I would that ye should understand that this is done unto us because of our religion and our faith in Christ. And now ye see that ye cannot destroy this our faith.
4 Now ye see that this is the true faith of God; yea, ye see that God will support, and keep, and preserve us, so long as we are faithful unto him, and unto our faith, and our religion; and never will the Lord suffer that we shall be destroyed except we should fall into transgression and deny our faith.
5 And now, Zerahemnah, I command you, in the name of that all-powerful God, who has strengthened our arms that we have gained power over you, by our faith, by our religion, and by our rites of worship, and by our church, and by the sacred support which we owe to our wives and our children, by that liberty which binds us to our lands and our country; yea, and also by the maintenance of the sacred word of God, to which we owe all our happiness; and by all that is most dear unto us—
6 Yea, and this is not all; I command you by all the desires which ye have for life, that ye deliver up your weapons of war unto us, and we will seek not your blood, but we will spare your lives, if ye will go your way and come not again to war against us.
7 And now, if ye do not this, behold, ye are in our hands, and I will command my men that they shall fall upon you, and inflict the wounds of death in your bodies, that ye may become extinct; and then we will see who shall have power over this people; yea, we will see who shall be brought into bondage.
8 And now it came to pass that when Zerahemnah had heard these sayings he came forth and delivered up his sword and his cimeter, and his bow into the hands of Moroni, and said unto him: Behold, here are our weapons of war; we will deliver them up unto you, but we will not suffer ourselves to take an oath unto you, which we know that we shall break, and also our children; but take our weapons of war, and suffer that we may depart into the wilderness; otherwise we will retain our swords, and we will perish or conquer.
9 Behold, we are not of your faith; we do not believe that it is God that has delivered us into your hands; but we believe that it is your cunning that has preserved you from our swords. Behold, it is your breastplates and your shields that have preserved you.
10 And now when Zerahemnah had made an end of speaking these words, Moroni returned the sword and the weapons of war, which he had received, unto Zerahemnah, saying: Behold, we will end the conflict.
11 Now I cannot recall the words which I have spoken, therefore as the Lord liveth, ye shall not depart except ye depart with an oath that ye will not return again against us to war. Now as ye are in our hands we will spill your blood upon the ground, or ye shall submit to the conditions which I have proposed.
12 And now when Moroni had said these words, Zerahemnah retained his sword, and he was angry with Moroni, and he rushed forward that he might slay Moroni; but as he raised his sword, behold, one of Moroni’s soldiers smote it even to the earth, and it broke by the hilt; and he also smote Zerahemnah that he took off his scalp and it fell to the earth. And Zerahemnah withdrew from before them into the midst of his soldiers.
13 And it came to pass that the soldier who stood by, who smote off the scalp of Zerahemnah, took up the scalp from off the ground by the hair, and laid it upon the point of his sword, and stretched it forth unto them, saying unto them with a loud voice:
14 Even as this scalp has fallen to the earth, which is the scalp of your chief, so shall ye fall to the earth except ye will deliver up your weapons of war and depart with a covenant of peace.
15 Now there were many, when they heard these words and saw the scalp which was upon the sword, that were struck with fear; and many came forth and threw down their weapons of war at the feet of Moroni, and entered into a covenant of peace. And as many as entered into a covenant they suffered to depart into the wilderness.
16 Now it came to pass that Zerahemnah was exceedingly wroth, and he did stir up the remainder of his soldiers to anger, to contend more powerfully against the Nephites.
17 And now Moroni was angry, because of the stubbornness of the Lamanites; therefore he commanded his people that they should fall upon them and slay them. And it came to pass that they began to slay them; yea, and the Lamanites did contend with their swords and their might.
18 But behold, their naked skins and their bare heads were exposed to the sharp swords of the Nephites; yea, behold they were pierced and smitten, yea, and did fall exceedingly fast before the swords of the Nephites; and they began to be swept down, even as the soldier of Moroni had prophesied.
19 Now Zerahemnah, when he saw that they were all about to be destroyed, cried mightily unto Moroni, promising that he would covenant and also his people with them, if they would spare the remainder of their lives, that they never would come to war again against them.
20 And it came to pass that Moroni caused that the work of death should cease again among the people. And he took the weapons of war from the Lamanites; and after they had entered into a covenant with him of peace they were suffered to depart into the wilderness.
21 Now the number of their dead was not numbered because of the greatness of the number; yea, the number of their dead was exceedingly great, both on the Nephites and on the Lamanites.
22 And it came to pass that they did cast their dead into the waters of Sidon, and they have gone forth and are buried in the depths of the sea.
23 And the armies of the Nephites, or of Moroni, returned and came to their houses and their lands.
I apologize for the long scriptural reference. But the story is one example of good people using violence and God is good with it. Take out the anger and the greed, and the lust for power or to enslave someone, and you probably have a justification for defense. War is not good. There is not much that can come from it, but sometimes violence is needed to rid ourselves of evil influence. This is not the teaching of Christ. He taught us to love our enemies. But if your enemies only respond with violence then theoretically, evil will take out good until only evil is left. I can remember the anxiety I had when I made my first jump from an aircraft. The fear of what was to come was so much worse than the experience itself. Violence gives me the same anxiety except the urge to run is much stronger! I also don’t like that anger is tied to violence so closely. I don’t want to be a “man of blood”. I don’t want anger to be a big part of my life. But I don’t want evil to win. As followers of Christ, we can only build up the kingdom of God on earth if we are here. So I will continue to carry a weapon and train with it. I will continue to encourage others to fight evil in every way. I will continue to defend against evil and I say as did Moroni:
“…then we will see who shall have power over this people; yea, we will see who shall be brought into bondage.”
Yes, we shall see…
Semper Paratus
Check 6
Burn
I was a Bishop years ago and I had a counselor who worked in intel in the Border Patrol. He was exposed to the dregs of society almost constantly. As a counselor he was having a hard time separating his job from his calling. He was looking at most people as dishonest and not very well meaning, even though it just wasn’t so. He was exposed to the worst in people, so he suspected the worst every time he dealt with people. He had to turn off his skepticism and looking for the bad because it wasn’t in the best interest of the ward or himself. To his credit he was able to do this.
When I pass someone on the street I have to make a quick judgement. Now the circumstances make all the difference. Did I just pass them on a crowded street at 1 in the afternoon with traffic and people everywhere? Or was it 2 A.M. on a dark street in a not-so-good neighborhood with no one around?
Being a protector is sometimes a difficult job for a civilian. But if I could prevent someone from getting killed when I have the tool, the training, and the mindset, how could I live with that? I don’t go looking for a fight.
Being a follower of Christ does not mean you shun violence. It means you choose violence only when you must. You don’t look for revenge but to protect. Turning the other cheek does not mean if someone were to kill your child to offer them your other child to be killed also. I don’t think that was the lesson. And if it was, then how do we account for Christ asking His apostles to sell their cloak for a sword when they were going to the garden of Gethsemane? I don’t think Christ would have us give our lives just because evil wants to take it. I think under certain circumstances we should give our lives for our beliefs as many martyrs have done. As we also learn from Christs teaching it is a great honor and it is an ultimate showing of love to lay down your life for others. To me that means we should try and defend ourselves.
God has given us plenty of wonderful freedoms, including, in the United States, the right to bear arms. But there are also plenty of biblical exhortations to give up that right when love obliges us to do so.
It’s all in your attitude. Do you train to fight or train to defend? Are you “men of blood?”
Alma 44:1-23
1 And it came to pass that they did stop and withdrew a pace from them. And Moroni said unto Zerahemnah: Behold, Zerahemnah, that we do not desire to be men of blood. Ye know that ye are in our hands, yet we do not desire to slay you.
2 Behold, we have not come out to battle against you that we might shed your blood for power; neither do we desire to bring any one to the yoke of bondage. But this is the very cause for which ye have come against us; yea, and ye are angry with us because of our religion.
3 But now, ye behold that the Lord is with us; and ye behold that he has delivered you into our hands. And now I would that ye should understand that this is done unto us because of our religion and our faith in Christ. And now ye see that ye cannot destroy this our faith.
4 Now ye see that this is the true faith of God; yea, ye see that God will support, and keep, and preserve us, so long as we are faithful unto him, and unto our faith, and our religion; and never will the Lord suffer that we shall be destroyed except we should fall into transgression and deny our faith.
5 And now, Zerahemnah, I command you, in the name of that all-powerful God, who has strengthened our arms that we have gained power over you, by our faith, by our religion, and by our rites of worship, and by our church, and by the sacred support which we owe to our wives and our children, by that liberty which binds us to our lands and our country; yea, and also by the maintenance of the sacred word of God, to which we owe all our happiness; and by all that is most dear unto us—
6 Yea, and this is not all; I command you by all the desires which ye have for life, that ye deliver up your weapons of war unto us, and we will seek not your blood, but we will spare your lives, if ye will go your way and come not again to war against us.
7 And now, if ye do not this, behold, ye are in our hands, and I will command my men that they shall fall upon you, and inflict the wounds of death in your bodies, that ye may become extinct; and then we will see who shall have power over this people; yea, we will see who shall be brought into bondage.
8 And now it came to pass that when Zerahemnah had heard these sayings he came forth and delivered up his sword and his cimeter, and his bow into the hands of Moroni, and said unto him: Behold, here are our weapons of war; we will deliver them up unto you, but we will not suffer ourselves to take an oath unto you, which we know that we shall break, and also our children; but take our weapons of war, and suffer that we may depart into the wilderness; otherwise we will retain our swords, and we will perish or conquer.
9 Behold, we are not of your faith; we do not believe that it is God that has delivered us into your hands; but we believe that it is your cunning that has preserved you from our swords. Behold, it is your breastplates and your shields that have preserved you.
10 And now when Zerahemnah had made an end of speaking these words, Moroni returned the sword and the weapons of war, which he had received, unto Zerahemnah, saying: Behold, we will end the conflict.
11 Now I cannot recall the words which I have spoken, therefore as the Lord liveth, ye shall not depart except ye depart with an oath that ye will not return again against us to war. Now as ye are in our hands we will spill your blood upon the ground, or ye shall submit to the conditions which I have proposed.
12 And now when Moroni had said these words, Zerahemnah retained his sword, and he was angry with Moroni, and he rushed forward that he might slay Moroni; but as he raised his sword, behold, one of Moroni’s soldiers smote it even to the earth, and it broke by the hilt; and he also smote Zerahemnah that he took off his scalp and it fell to the earth. And Zerahemnah withdrew from before them into the midst of his soldiers.
13 And it came to pass that the soldier who stood by, who smote off the scalp of Zerahemnah, took up the scalp from off the ground by the hair, and laid it upon the point of his sword, and stretched it forth unto them, saying unto them with a loud voice:
14 Even as this scalp has fallen to the earth, which is the scalp of your chief, so shall ye fall to the earth except ye will deliver up your weapons of war and depart with a covenant of peace.
15 Now there were many, when they heard these words and saw the scalp which was upon the sword, that were struck with fear; and many came forth and threw down their weapons of war at the feet of Moroni, and entered into a covenant of peace. And as many as entered into a covenant they suffered to depart into the wilderness.
16 Now it came to pass that Zerahemnah was exceedingly wroth, and he did stir up the remainder of his soldiers to anger, to contend more powerfully against the Nephites.
17 And now Moroni was angry, because of the stubbornness of the Lamanites; therefore he commanded his people that they should fall upon them and slay them. And it came to pass that they began to slay them; yea, and the Lamanites did contend with their swords and their might.
18 But behold, their naked skins and their bare heads were exposed to the sharp swords of the Nephites; yea, behold they were pierced and smitten, yea, and did fall exceedingly fast before the swords of the Nephites; and they began to be swept down, even as the soldier of Moroni had prophesied.
19 Now Zerahemnah, when he saw that they were all about to be destroyed, cried mightily unto Moroni, promising that he would covenant and also his people with them, if they would spare the remainder of their lives, that they never would come to war again against them.
20 And it came to pass that Moroni caused that the work of death should cease again among the people. And he took the weapons of war from the Lamanites; and after they had entered into a covenant with him of peace they were suffered to depart into the wilderness.
21 Now the number of their dead was not numbered because of the greatness of the number; yea, the number of their dead was exceedingly great, both on the Nephites and on the Lamanites.
22 And it came to pass that they did cast their dead into the waters of Sidon, and they have gone forth and are buried in the depths of the sea.
23 And the armies of the Nephites, or of Moroni, returned and came to their houses and their lands.
I apologize for the long scriptural reference. But the story is one example of good people using violence and God is good with it. Take out the anger and the greed, and the lust for power or to enslave someone, and you probably have a justification for defense. War is not good. There is not much that can come from it, but sometimes violence is needed to rid ourselves of evil influence. This is not the teaching of Christ. He taught us to love our enemies. But if your enemies only respond with violence then theoretically, evil will take out good until only evil is left. I can remember the anxiety I had when I made my first jump from an aircraft. The fear of what was to come was so much worse than the experience itself. Violence gives me the same anxiety except the urge to run is much stronger! I also don’t like that anger is tied to violence so closely. I don’t want to be a “man of blood”. I don’t want anger to be a big part of my life. But I don’t want evil to win. As followers of Christ, we can only build up the kingdom of God on earth if we are here. So I will continue to carry a weapon and train with it. I will continue to encourage others to fight evil in every way. I will continue to defend against evil and I say as did Moroni:
“…then we will see who shall have power over this people; yea, we will see who shall be brought into bondage.”
Yes, we shall see…
Semper Paratus
Check 6
Burn
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