Monday, March 13, 2023

Never use single action in a Deadly Force Situation

 

In a self-defence scenario, time is of the essence, and any delay in taking action can potentially jeopardize your safety. Using a single-action revolver requires an extra step to cock the hammer before firing, which can take precious time and may not be feasible in a high-stress situation. This is why double-action revolvers are preferred in self-defence scenarios, as they allow for quick and efficient firing without the need to cock the hammer manually.

It's important to note that the choice of weapon and firing mode is a personal preference and can vary based on individual skill and experience. It's also essential to receive proper training in firearms use and follow local laws and regulations regarding using deadly Force.

In a life-or-death situation, the decision to use deadly Force should be made with extreme caution and only when necessary to protect oneself or others from imminent harm. Also, ask yourself this question: if I had time to cock the hammer and use single action- Was it an actual deadly force situation? Deadly Force, by definition, is immediately happening now. If an extra second is taken to cock the hammer, is this shooting habit meeting the legal purpose of self-defence? Always use double action in training so that your personal shooting habits meet self-defence and deadly force criteria.


Sunday, March 12, 2023

China's projection - China's reality

 


China has been expanding its military and projecting its power on the global stage in recent years. However, this expansion comes when the country faces many internal problems, including an aging population and financial issues. As China over-extends itself, it increasingly relies on nationalism as its last card.

China's military expansion is often seen as a challenge to the United States' dominance in the world. China has invested heavily in its military, modernizing its armed forces and developing new technologies. This expansion is part of China's broader strategy to become a global superpower that can challenge the US in all spheres of influence.

However, China's military projection is not without its problems. It is expensive, and China already faces many financial issues. The country has significant debt, and its economic growth has slowed recently. Additionally, China's population is aging rapidly, which strains the country's resources and social services.

China's demographic problem is significant. The country has one of the lowest birth rates in the world, and its population is aging rapidly. The country's one-child policy, which was in effect from 1979 to 2015, has contributed to this demographic problem. The policy was implemented to curb population growth but has had unintended consequences. The policy has resulted in a shrinking workforce and a rapidly aging population.

China's aging population poses several challenges for the country. For one, it puts a strain on the country's social services. As the population ages, there will be an increased demand for healthcare, pensions, and other services. Additionally, an aging population means a shrinking workforce, which could hinder economic growth.

Another problem facing China is its debt. The country has invested heavily in infrastructure, including high-speed rail and other projects. However, this investment has come at a cost. China's debt has proliferated in recent years, and some rating agencies have downgraded the country's credit rating. Additionally, the country's economic growth has slowed in recent years, which could make it difficult for China to repay its debt.

As China over-extends itself, it increasingly relies on nationalism as its last card. Nationalism has become essential for the Chinese government to rally its citizens around a common cause. The government has used nationalism to deflect attention from its internal problems and to justify its military expansion.

Nationalism has become a powerful force in China in recent years. The country has become increasingly assertive in its territorial claims, particularly in the South China Sea. Additionally, the government has cracked down on dissent and has used censorship to control the narrative around its policies.

China's military projection on the global stage is covering up some serious internal problems. The country's aging population and financial issues are significant challenges the government must address in the coming years. As China over-extends itself, it increasingly relies on nationalism as its last card. However, nationalism can be a double-edged sword, and the Chinese government must tread carefully to avoid stoking tensions at home and abroad.

Two Tales of Attrition: The Army of Northern Virginia and Ukrainian Army

 


It is difficult to directly compare the current Ukrainian Army and the Army of Northern Virginia in 1864, as the context and challenges both face are vastly different. However, both faced significant struggles in their respective conflicts.

In the case of the Ukrainian Army, recent casualties of over 100,000 have highlighted the immense toll of the ongoing conflict with Russian-backed separatists in the eastern Donbas region. The loss of so many soldiers has strained the Ukrainian Army's ability to replace these troops, making it more challenging to maintain a solid defensive position against the Russian military.

Compared to Ukraine's much smaller military, Russia's military force of over 500,000 troops only adds to the challenge. Despite the Ukrainian Army's valiant efforts, the sheer size of the Russian force makes it difficult to hold back their advances.

In contrast, the Army of Northern Virginia faced different challenges during the American Civil War. The Confederacy had a smaller population and fewer resources than the Union, which gave the Union an advantage in manpower and supplies. However, the Army of Northern Virginia was led by talented generals such as Robert E. Lee, who could make strategic decisions that kept the Confederacy in the fight for an extended period.

One significant difference between the two conflicts is the level of international support. During the American Civil War, foreign powers such as Britain and France remained neutral, despite some initial attempts by the Confederacy to secure recognition and aid. In the case of the conflict in Ukraine, there has been some support from Western countries, but not enough to match the scale of Russian backing for separatist forces.

The United States, which played a significant role in supporting the Ukrainian government during the early stages of the conflict, is now less able to provide assistance. With only 50,000 troops available for deployment, the US military would struggle to significantly impact Ukraine's conflict. Additionally, the political climate in the US and concerns about involvement in another foreign conflict make it unlikely that the US would take a more active role in the conflict.

While similarities exist between the challenges faced by the Ukrainian Army and the Army of Northern Virginia, the differences in context, resources, and international support make it difficult to draw a direct comparison. The ongoing conflict in Ukraine remains complex and challenging, with no easy solutions.

The United States has been criticized for its foreign policy approach toward its allies, particularly concerning its involvement in Vietnam, Lebanon, Iraq, and Afghanistan. Some allies perceive that the United States has abandoned them in the face of adversity.

As for Ukraine, the United States has provided military aid and political support to the country in its conflict with Russia. The Biden administration has reaffirmed its commitment to Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity and pledged to provide additional military aid. Still, Biden's promises are hollow without the troops to close with and push the Russians back. While the computer whizzes in the Pentagon provide outstanding intel, the bottom line is that more soldiers are needed; otherwise, Biden's commitment is just rhetoric to make everyone feel good at bedtime. Nevertheless, the situation remains precarious, and the outcome of the conflict is uncertain.

Saturday, March 11, 2023

Universal Revolver Reload Technique (URR)

 


Universal Revolver Reload, also known as speed strip reload or tactical reload, is a technique used to reload a revolver quickly and efficiently. The process involves using a speed strip, a small plastic strip that holds ammunition in a specific position, to load rounds into the revolver's cylinder.

The process of performing a universal revolver reload involves several steps. First, the shooter will use their support hand to extract the spent cartridges from the cylinder. Then, they will load the speed strip with new rounds. Once the speed strip is loaded, the shooter will use their support hand to align the rounds with the cylinder and quickly slide them into place. Finally, the shooter will close the cylinder and be ready to continue shooting.

Training for universal revolver reload typically involves practicing the technique in a controlled environment, such as a shooting range, under the guidance of a qualified instructor. The instructor will guide the shooter through the steps of the process and will also emphasize the importance of safety and proper firearm handling.

The importance of the universal revolver reload technique lies in its ability to allow the shooter to quickly and efficiently reload their revolver in a high-pressure situation. This technique is beneficial in self-defence situations, where the shooter may need to reload their revolver swiftly to protect themselves or others.

One of the key advantages of the universal revolver reload technique is that it relies on gross motor skills rather than fine motor skills. Under stress, fine motor skills can become impaired, making it challenging to perform complex tasks. On the other hand, gross motor skills are more resistant to stress and can be performed more reliably.

It is important to note that while the universal revolver reload technique can be an effective tool for shooters, it should only be attempted under the guidance of a qualified instructor. Improper technique or handling of firearms can be hazardous and result in severe injury or death.

The Universal Revolver Reload technique is essential for any shooter, particularly those carrying a revolver for self-defence. By relying on gross motor skills, this technique allows for quick and efficient reloading under stress. However, it is vital to receive proper training and guidance from a qualified instructor before using this technique.

Friday, March 10, 2023

Believe it or not- Thomas Jefferson wanted the Declaration of Independence to condemn Slavery



The Declaration of Independence, a cornerstone of American history, is widely regarded as a document representing the principles of liberty and equality upon which the United States was founded. It was written by Thomas Jefferson, a key figure in the American Revolution, who attempted to include language that would have condemned slavery. However, this language was ultimately removed, and the Declaration did not explicitly condemn the practice. This article will explore how Jefferson tried to advocate against slavery in the Declaration and why this language was forgotten.

Thomas Jefferson was a complex figure. On the one hand, he was a slave owner who owned over 600 enslaved people during his lifetime. On the other hand, he was a vocal advocate for the abolition of slavery and believed that it was a moral and political evil. Jefferson attempted to include language in the Declaration of Independence that would have condemned the practice of slavery.

In his original draft of the Declaration, Jefferson wrote a passage that condemned King George III for "waging cruel war against human nature itself, violating its most sacred rights of life and liberty in the persons of a distant people who never offended him, captivating and carrying them into slavery in another hemisphere, or to incur miserable death in their transportation thither." This passage explicitly condemned the practice of slavery and accused the King of perpetuating it.

However, this language was ultimately removed from the final draft of the Declaration. There were several reasons for this. Firstly, there was a fear among the Southern colonies that explicitly condemning slavery would lead to a loss of support for the Revolution. Many slave-owning colonists believed that their economic interests were tied to the continuation of the practice, and they did not want to risk losing their support for the Revolution by condemning it. Additionally, some Northern delegates opposed to slavery did not want to include language that would divide the colonies and potentially weaken their resolve to fight against British rule.

As a result, the passage condemning slavery was removed, and the final version of the Declaration did not explicitly condemn the practice. However, the Declaration's emphasis on equality and natural rights has been used to support abolitionist movements throughout American history. Many abolitionists argued that the principles enshrined in the Declaration made slavery contradictory to American liberty.

Thomas Jefferson attempted to include language that condemned slavery in the Declaration of Independence. Still, this language was ultimately removed due to concerns about dividing the colonies and potentially weakening their resolve to fight against British rule. Although the Declaration did not explicitly condemn slavery, its emphasis on equality and natural rights has been used to support abolitionist movements throughout American history. Despite its flaws, the Declaration of Independence remains a vital document representing the principles upon which the United States was founded.

Wednesday, March 8, 2023

17 Hornady Magnum Rimfire: Great round for Sport Shooting & Hunting




The 17 HMR, also known as the 17 Hornady Magnum Rimfire, is a popular and versatile rimfire rifle cartridge developed by Hornady in 2002. This cartridge is a rimfire design, meaning that the primer is located on the inner rim of the casing. It is a relatively small and lightweight cartridge well-suited for various shooting activities.

The 17 HMR was created by necking down a .22 Magnum case to take a .17 calibre (4.5 mm) projectile. This innovative design allowed for a cartridge with high velocity and flat trajectory, making it ideal for shooting at small games and varmints. With a velocity of 2,550 feet per second and a trajectory that is nearly flat out to 200 yards, the 17 HMR is a highly accurate and effective cartridge for both target shooting and hunting.

One of the key advantages of the 17 HMR is its versatility. It can be used for various shooting activities, including target shooting, small game hunting, and varmint control. The high velocity and flat trajectory of the 17 HMR make it an excellent choice for long-range shooting, and its small size and light weight make it well-suited for hunting in dense cover and other challenging environments.

The 17 HMR has also become popular among rimfire enthusiasts due partly to its accuracy, versatility, and affordability compared to other rimfire cartridges. A wide range of rifles and ammunition is available in 17 HMR, and the cartridge is widely recognized for its reliability and consistent performance.

In conclusion, the 17 HMR is a rimfire cartridge that has become popular among shooters and hunters. Its high velocity, flat trajectory, versatility and affordability make it an excellent choice for various shooting activities. Whether you're a target shooter or hunter or enjoy shooting for fun, the 17 HMR is worth considering. 

Wednesday, March 1, 2023

Forgotten Legends Series: Ed Don George

 


Edward Nye "Ed Don" George Jr. was a renowned figure in American history, known for his naval career and expertise in hand-to-hand combat training. Born on June 3, 1905, Ed Don George served in the United States Navy during World War II and rose to prominence as an instructor of close-quarters combat. He trained countless sailors in the art of hand-to-hand combat and is remembered as one of the most influential figures in the development of modern naval close-quarters combat training.

Ed Don George's naval career began in the 1920s, and he quickly gained recognition for his physical prowess and fighting skills. He was eventually selected to join the elite ranks of the Navy's close-quarters combat instructors. He trained sailors in the techniques and strategies necessary to survive in hand-to-hand combat situations.

During World War II, Ed Don George's expertise in close-quarters combat became even more valuable as he was called upon to train sailors in the latest techniques and strategies for hand-to-hand combat. He worked tirelessly to ensure that American sailors were well-equipped to face the challenges of close-quarters combat and had the skills necessary to emerge victorious.

Ed Don George's hand-to-hand combat training techniques and strategies became widely recognized as some of the most effective in the world. He was widely respected for his ability to instruct sailors in close-quarters combat, and his teachings continue to be studied and applied by military personnel today.

In recognition of his contributions to the Navy and his expertise in hand-to-hand combat training, Ed Don George was awarded numerous medals and honours. He is remembered as one of the most significant figures in American naval history and a pioneer in close-quarters combat training.

Ed Don George passed away on September 18, 1985, but his legacy lives on through the countless sailors he trained and the techniques he developed. He will always be remembered as a true leader in the field of close-quarters combat training and as a champion of American military might