The Packing Rat

Derek supplements Random Gun’s guide on how to remove the magazine disconnect on a Ruger SR22 pistol.

Derek shoots at a steel target from Grizzly Targets.

Derek’s monthly update.

Derek adds to MouseGunAddict’s thoughts on pocket carry pants.

Derek, the moth, visits the lights of San Francisco. Didn’t get zapped.

Tired.  This is all I am posting this evening. Nightforce BEAST and ATACR.

Turtle Skin Turtle Skin manufactures a variety of protective equipment: body armor, gloves, snake protection, etc.  The BladeTect shirt caught my eye initially.  It’s like a lightweight chain mail to minimize the threat against blades and sharp cuts.  It’s also breathable and appears/feels it would be comfortable to wear.  Also photographed below are Snake Gaiters, […]

Derek’s first day at SHOT Show 2013.

This is the coolest year I’ve encountered in Las Vegas, NV.  I must admit, however, I’m not a very good barometer to determine what cold really is. I was prepared, so I managed quite well.  Minus 33 Merino wool base layer, Ice Breaker Merino wool t-shirt, silk sock liner, Darned Tough Merino wool socks, Triple […]

Please recall the negative attention Mr. Helinski of Guns America received last year.  I didn’t take offense; therefore, made no comment on the matter.  However, I do question if there will be stringent protocols in place to differentiate qualified media professionals from nobodies.  Below is an email I received offering free shirts for “writers, bloggers, […]

Among the firearms I took out recently was a Ruger SR22. If you recall, I posted a short disassembly video of the SR22 from SHOT Show 2012. I finally purchased one this week. Probably my first new handgun purchase in awhile. First several rounds seem to have POI consistency issues; however, after about 100 rounds, […]

I received word from TTGunleather that Occidental Leather’s holster models, Stronghold, will be discontinued. Stronghold is discontinuing their holsters – we have a lot of items in stock and available for immediate shipment. Please contact us if you need something for Christmas! Discounted Prices! I wrote a review of the Stronghold holsters awhile back. Now […]

I spent this afternoon at Sacramento Valley Shooting Center working on a few selected drills and reconfirming POI with a shorter front sight from the GLOCK 19. Instead of the .215″ I had, I replaced it with a .185″ – both of which were manufactured by Warren Tactical. Point of impact with the .215″ was […]

Chase from Deep Conceal LLC, approached me to check out their line of firearm concealed carry holsters. Wasn’t quite certain what I could offer considering I’m pretty happy with my current setup, but I had a choice between their shoulder holster or sun visor holster. The shoulder holster can be described as a rib-band with […]

If you didn’t know, Gun Blogger Rendezvous VII registration is open. It’s a little under 90 days away! Are you going to make it? Be sure to mark your calendars, September 5 – 8. You may download and send off the form here. Check out what others had to say about the Gun Blogger Rendezvous […]

Why he hates 1911s. He has many good points. I also laughed.

Instead of sewing rats, I’m playing around in illustrator. Thoughts?

Training has provided me a level of competency to shoot consistently well; well enough to safely respond to generic stimuli to execute a satisfactory shot for self-defense purposes from concealment. At least I like to think so. With some practice, it’s pretty darned easy to unholster a firearm from concealment. Speed, accuracy, and movement can […]

This afternoon, I stayed in and installed an AEK Trigger on Shenanigun’s Smith & Wesson M&P 9mm pistol.  Courtesy of APEX Tactical Specialties, the addition of the AEK trigger provides a reduction in pre-travel and over-travel resulting in a perception of an improved trigger pull.  This trigger may stand alone, or further enhance APEX Tactical […]

Assuming a five shot revolver with a speed strip reload is the definition of an optimist, I’ve shed bit a off. After a recommendation from a TPR reader and Gun Blogger Rendezvous attendee, I picked up the 8-round Tuff Quickstrip to replace my 6-round speed strips.  Instead of 4 rounds on a 6-round Quickstrip with my […]