Sprinco USA 1911 Recoil Springs

.Sprinco USA 1911 Recoil Spring
A properly tuned 1911 Automatic is unquestionably the finest combat pistol in the world.
I've owned my Colt Combat Government for about thirty years. I wore it on and off through out my misspent and tumultuous youth in New York City and Miami. The bluing is a little worn around the sharp edges near the muzzle, and it has a couple of honestly earned scratches, but other than that, it is the one firearm that I pick up first regardless. No kidding, I can shoot you in the eye at 21 feet and if you stand still long enough I can shoot you in the other eye.

I have put approximately 1500 rounds through it, all of them 230gr ball. Recently I added the Buffer Technology 1911 buffer, which is something I highly recommend now, and I felt that it was time that the recoil spring was also replaced. Recoil springs have a life of 3000 to 5000 rounds so I was well within the lifespan, but better safe than sorry.

I got in touch with Alan Dugger of Sprinco USA for some advice. After a bit of discussion, Alan forwarded a selection of Sprinco 1911 Recoil Springs for my evaluation.

Note the different color ends on the springs, and the color code dot on the labels.
Nice touch Sprinco USA.

Sprinco 1911 Recoil Springs are manufactured from a chromium-silicon alloy that is noted for it's hardness and superior performance at extremely high temperatures and stresses. Because of it's heat resistance and hardness, the alloy is used in valve springs and automatic transmissions that operate at temperatures well over 275F. Chrome-silicon was originally developed for recoil springs in anti-aircraft guns where high resistance to environmental degradation, shock loads, and long life is needed. A nice feature by Sprinco is the color coded packaging by weight for easier field I.D. by the shooter. In addition, the recoil springs come packaged in hard plastic tubes for easier transportation. The springs also have a corresponding color for the spring weight as well.

One thing that deserves mention by itself is the extreme duty cycle of the Sprinco chromium-silicon alloy recoil springs. This alloy provides excellent service for applications in the 5,000 to 50,000 cycle ranges. How's that for longevity?

How do you decide what weight of spring to use? The correct recoil spring poundage is important to the reliability of your pistol. Changes in the weight of the slide and barrel, like changing them may require a new spring. If you add barrel weights or a compensator, scopes or an optical sight attached directly to the slide, or if you change your ammunition to something stronger or weaker, it may require a change in spring weight. Too light a spring will beat the pistol and weaken the chambering process; too heavy a spring will result in failures to extract and eject, or in "stovepipe" stoppages. Your best bet is to use the heaviest spring possible while maintaining reliable function. But a spring that is too heavy will pummel the extractor. The rapid closing of the slide will force the extractor over the rim of the cartridge, rather than allowing the cartridge to slide under the extractor with a smooth controlled motion. It also slams the slide into the slide stop unnecessarily.

A good field indicator is how far the ejected cases land from you. Less than three feet indicate the spring is too heavy, while more than six feet means you need a heavier spring. Remember, a spring that is too light will ultimately damage your 1911.

New spring is almost a full coil longer than factory original.

The stock recoil spring in a standard 1911 is rated at 16 pounds. Moving up one notch to 17 or 18 pounds will be about right for most pistols shooting hardball and other full-power defense ammo. Anything heavier is too much. Be sure to test the new recoil spring by shooting the pistol one-handed and loosely. It should function positively. If not, go back to the 16-pound spring.

Locking the recoil spring in place.

Guide, Buffer Tech 1911 Buffer, and Sprinco 17lbs Recoil Spring.

In my particular case I shoot standard full power ball ammo for practice, and I use Winchester Supreme T-Series as my defensive load. The Supreme T is a full power load with a 230gr hollow point. It leaves the muzzle at almost 900 fps, and is a formidable defensive round. I put in the 17 pound recoil spring from Sprinco, lubricated the slide with Machine Gunner's Lube and headed to the range.

Colt Government Combat with its new Sprinco Recoil Spring

I noticed that there was a definite difference in the tension of the spring, One pound difference is noticeable when racking the slide. Upon firing, the Colt was as smooth as ever. Empties were ejecting without a hitch, and every round chambered flawlessly.

When you are ready to change your 1911's recoil spring, give Sprinco USA a call and order yourself one. A spare spring should also be pat of your 1911 kit.

Sprinco USA
1-800-397-9530

Sprinco 1911 Recoil Spring
MSRP: $7.95

Buffer Technologies 1911 Recoil Buffer

.
I have the opportunity to field test and report on Buffer Technologies 1911 Recoil Buffer. Designed to reduce felt recoil and muzzle jump, they also extend the 1911's service life by ameliorating the metal to metal impact of slide to stop.

Recoil spring and recoil spring guide before adding buffer.

The buffer is made from a specific and proprietary polyurethane. It provides a considerable amount of protection to the slide as it reaches the end of motion and slams into the recoil spring guide by cushioning the impact. This is what loosens a 1911, the repeated slamming of the slide against the stop.


For a minimal investment you can protect your 1911, and extend its service life immeasurably.

1911 Recoil Buffers and my Colt Government Combat Model 1911.
It was a factory option back in the early eighties.

Installation is very easy and requires no tools. I carefully cut the buffer from the strip so there wouldn't any extraneous piece. Field strip your 1911 and pull the recoil spring guide and spring out.

Start 1911 Auto Recoil Buffer on recoil spring guide

Buffer Tech 1911 Buffer aligned and in place on Recoil spring guide

Slide spring over recoil spring guide.

Buffer Tech 1911 Recoil Buffer in place.

I took the Colt out and ran a magazine through it. I noticed that the recoil impulse was definitely different. It was a little less sharp and I was back on target perceptively faster. We are talking about fractions of a second overall; this won't make you competitively faster, but that's not the point. It does what it is advertised to do: save your slide, reduce muzzle rise, and reduce felt recoil.

I'm a big fan of inexpensive things that pay for themselves quickly and in large multiples. The Buffer Technologies 1911 Recoil Buffer is one of those items that does exactly what it says and saves me money. With a street price of $6.99 for a package of eight, I give this a "Rock Solid Buy."

Buffer Technologies
Buffer Tech 1911 Recoil Buffer
MSRP: $9.95

(877) 6-BUFFER
(877) 628-3337
Fax: (573) 634-8522

Tactical Reviews: Combat Application Tools - CAT M-4

.
Listen up, people!

Here is another one of those tools that you stop and think to yourself, "Why didn't I think of that!"

The CAT-M4

Myself, I wish I had the Combat Applications Tool CAT M-4 back when I was in the US Army, when the M16A1 was ubiquitous, and A2s the cutting edge of the AR platform. The CAT M-4 tool would have saved me a lot of scrubbing.

And push-ups.


Sam Johnson got the idea for the CAT M-4 while discussing weapon cleaning and combat drills with a close friend Jim Hopper who was training the Iraqi National Army. Sam is a machinist and after a couple of prototypes, he forwarded the CAT M-4 tool to Jim, whereupon it became an immediate success.



The CAT M-4 is designed to quickly bring a bolt to tactical tolerances in a matter of moments.

The CAT M4 tool is investment cast from 400 series stainless steel. The bolt cleaning chamber is CNC machined to precisely fit a mil-spec bolt. Investment casting leaves a non-reflective finish on the tools and feels smoother in the hand. All manufacturing is done 100% in the United States of America by American workers.

While the CAT-M4 fits many bolts perfectly, due to very slight differences in bolts, the tool will fit some bolts better than others. All bolts so far encountered by the tech staff at Combat Application Tools have been restored to "tactical tolerance" quickly. Inspection cleanliness can be quickly achieved by the addition of solvent and a patch or two.

Scraping the Bolt's Tail Clean

Patch Holder for Cleaning the Bolt Carrier

Cleaning the Bolt Carrier

Cleaning the Bolt Carrier

1/4" Hex Head Holder

Magnetic hex head extension works great!

Not only does it do a great job of cleaning the bolt quickly, but in a stroke of genius Sam broached a 1/4 inch hex opening in it so that an operator could use any 1/4 hex tool in it. I found that a magnetic extension works best to keep a bit in place and immobile.

For the money, this is a great tool for any operator, soldier, or enthusiast who uses any AR platform or M16/M4. Keeping the bolt and carrier clean has always been the key to reliable operation, here is a tool that lets you do it in mere moments, out in the field, where it counts the most! Another "Rock Solid Buy" from the Team at The Range Reviews: Tactical.

And remember, it's made in the United States of America!

Combat Applications Tool
C.A.T. M-4
MSRP: $35.00

Anti-Terrorism Training Level I Certificate Program

.
ANTI-TERRORISM LEVEL I TRAINING SYSTEM.

I took this wonderful course and got my certificate in less than an hour. This is another great little learning tool that just might save your life, or that of your loved ones. It's not difficult, but it teaches you some situational awareness.

This is the help page



The 14 hour DoD Anti Terrorism Course certification is located at the Defense Security Service Academy.

You may have to get the expired security certificates to allow you to access the DSS, but it's no big deal.

Now, I just signed up, and I will let you all know if I was accepted, and what it is like when I start doing it.

Regards,
TRRT

Desert Tactical Arms: SRS

.
Folks,

Just posting a few pictures as a favor to one of my readers.

I'll be doing a full report/review on the DT SRS when Desert Tactical Arms come down to my neck of the woods.

We have an appointment.

DT SRS 338 LM Deployment Kit
Click to enlarge picture

Me and the DT SRS .308

Regards,
Albert A Rasch
The Rasch Outdoor Chronicles
The Range Reviews: Tactical

AGI Technical Manual & Armorer's Course for the AR15

© 2009 Albert A Rasch

You know, they say that the best investment you can make, is one that you make in yourself. And in these uncertain times, it is absolutely more true than ever. With the investment that many of us have made in our firearms, don't you think that knowledge is cheap insurance? With AGI you get to invest in your skills and education at very reasonable prices. These are home education courses that have a real practical value.

When I received AGI's AR15 Technical Manual & Armorer's Course, I eagerly tore the plastic off the DVD case and popped the disc in my computer. I have been looking forward to the opportunity to view American Gunsmith Institute material for a very long time, and when the opportunity to do so came, I jumped at it.

After spending ten minutes trying to get Windows Media Player to work right, I finally got to watch the DVD. Windows... Sheeeesh...

First things first, the DVD is digitally remastered from VCR tapes. So you will find that the weapons themselves are a little dated. You won't find rails or lasers and lights on these tutorials. But other than stylistic changes to the AR15/ M16, there are no functional or mechanical differences between an A1 and M4. Bob Dunlap gives a very detailed and educational lecture along with a demonstration of working with and gunsmithing the AR platform. Bob is a down to earth type of narrator and instructor, so you won't get bogged down with jargon and technical discussions.


The course is divided into:

• History of the AR15: Bob delves into the history of the AR15, Armalite and Eugene Stoner.
• Design and functions: Bob displays and explains how all the inner workings operate both individually and in concert with others.
• Complete disassembly and reassembly: Bob tales us through a complete disassembly, from the bolt and gas tube, to the very last pin.
• Proper cleaning and lubrication: AGI's own cleaning method is used and explained. Don't worry, it's not proprietary and I will be writing a post specific to their method, with a comparison to traditional methods.
• Trouble shooting and repair: Bob covers all the usual suspects, and a few you might not be aware of.
• Tuning Tips: Magazines, ramps, and barrels, extractors and ejectors; tips that you can use and perform easily.

Even if you are intimately familiar with the AR15 or the M4, an astute observer will pick up enough information to make his next AR that much more reliable and accurate. Those of you that follow the tactical trends will find plenty of tips and tricks applicable to your latest Hi Speed wonder gun.

The beauty of the DVD type courses is that you can refer back to a section with nothing more than a click of the mouse or remote control. Need to see how the bolt is assembled? Just go to that section and play it again. Forgot which spring went where? Check the included schematics.

AGI has their Bulletproof Guarantee:

All of AGI's courses are covered by our 100% money back guarantee. If you are not satisfied with any AGI video or product purchased directly from AGI, you may return it up to 90 days from the purchase date for a full refund (less shipping). The only question we will ask is "How did we fail you?"

How can you beat that?

I was pretty impressed with AGI's Technical Manual & Armorer's Course, I learned quite a bit, to the point were I feel confident that I could take a box of parts, and put together a fully functional AR. I would rate this course a solid, definite buy for any AR owner.

And remember, it's made right here in the United States of America!

AGI
AGI Technical Manual and Armorer's Course AR-15
MSRP: $39.95

This review is also available at The Rasch Outdoor Chronicles AGI Armorer's Course

Tactical Medical Packs: Tac Pack and Tack Pack QC

© 2009 Albert A Rasch

Tac-Pack by Tactical Medical Packs

Designed by Dr Maurizio Miglietta for Secret Service use, the Tac-Pack® is for the emergency treatment of open or bleeding wounds, wounds like gunshot wounds, knife wounds, broadhead wounds, explosive trauma, and it can handle certain smoke and dust conditions. And it is a trauma kit that is compact and light enough to carry in a jacket or trouser pocket; available for use at a moments notice.

Inside the vacuum packed pouch, you find the necessary items to render immediate first aid. It is easily used on yourself, or on others, immediately. A trauma kit like this, in the hands of just about anyone, could potentially save any number of people, who normally would have been lost due to help not arriving soon enough.

No to belabor the point, but all of us need to be prepared in case of any kind of incident. With the potential for a terrorist attack, or a mentally disturbed individual that goes on a rampage, citizens everywhere need to have capabilities that where once reserved for soldiers and first responders. The Tac-Packs should be the first thing placed in everyone's personal kit.

Tac-Pac Contents

The Tac-Pack contains the following:
Latex-Free Gloves
Roll Bandage
Gauze
Abdominal Pad
N-95 Respirator Mask
Triangular Bandage
Tape
Occlusive Dressing
CPR Microshield.

Tac-Pack QC

The Tac-Pack QC has everything the Tack-Pack has, and adds QuikClot, which helps to staunch the flow of blood from a wound. It is vacuum packed and compact so that it fits just about anywhere.

Tac-Pac QC Contents

The Tac-Pack QC contains the following:
Latex-Free Gloves
Roll Bandage
Gauze
Abdominal Pad
N-95 Respirator Mask
Triangular Bandage
Tape
Occlusive Dressing
CPR Microshield
25gram Quick Clot® Sponge

Dimensions and the back has a notes section that you can affix to the patient

Important Information

Trauma and Gunshot wounds:
What you need to know to save a life.
Dr. Maurizio A. Miglietta

And for further instruction on using the Tac-Pack, Tack-Pack QC, or the Individual Battle Pack, see this information filled PDF: Instructional Training Materials. This is a well thought out Power Point style instructional material that can be shown as an slide show or printed out as a handout.

Note: N95 respirator has at least 95% filtration efficiency against solid and liquid aerosols that do not contain oil. For more information on N95 type respirators see this PDF from 3M


For those of you that hunt, TMC will be coming out with a Hunter-Pack, a trauma pack very similar to the Tac-Pac QC. That's no excuse for not getting the Tac-Pac immediately for your home, vehicle and rucksack. Again, as I frequently say, it is cheap insurance!

And don't forget, it's made in The United States of America!

Tactical Medical Packs
1-800-892-2801

Tac-Pac
MSRP: $24.95
Tac-Pack QC
MSRP: $36.50

This review is also available at The Rasch Outdoor Chronicles The Range Reviews: Tac-Packs

Tactical Reviews: ClearShot Lens Cleaning Kit

© 2009 Albert A Rasch

ClearShot Lens Cleaning Kit

I recently received Charlie King's ClearShot Lens Cleaning Kit. Charlie is a motorcycling enthusiast, who after struggling to find a kit to keep his helmet visor clean, put together the ClearShot. (Charlie's ride to the Arctic Ocean is photo-chronicled here.) As a fellow outdoor enthusiast he saw a need and striking out on his own, has built a great product, and is now marketing it through dealers throughout the United States.

ClearShot Lens Cleaning Components

The ClearShot system puts all of your lens cleaning items in one self contained package. The container is a rigid ABS plastic case, with three separate compartments. Four rubber caps seal the ends securely. The caps are attached, so you can't lose them! If necessary, the caps and tethers will come off and you can paint the ABS flat black, sand, or any other subdued color that suits your needs.

The long compartment contains a small spray bottle of Charlie's proprietary lens cleaning and anti-fog solution. The raspberry colored compound is non-toxic, biodegradable, and safe for all optic surfaces; this includes glass, mineral glass, plastic, and polycarbonate lenses. The pump sprayer works very well, surprisingly well! I can tell that Charlie put a lot of thought into the whole package.

There are two cloths for cleaning your lens, a blue heavy cleaner, and a white polishing cloth. The Blue cloth is an optical grade microfiber made for coarse cleaning. (Like getting bugs off your visor.) The white polishing cloth is also a microfiber textile, but softer and with a finer weave. It will leave a polished, streak-free finish on the surface on your optics

Here is a word of advice. If your lenses are so dirty that you think you need the blue cloth, wash them with running water. Tip your canteen over and get the grit and grime off first, before you try to use a piece of cloth on it. Then use the blue cloth to dry it. Otherwise you will just damage the surface of your optics and degrade its capabilities. This is especially true of coated optics.

ClearShot Lens Cleaning Spray

Blue Cloth

White Cloth

If it is just a case of fingerprint smudges, fog, or nose oil on your lenses, then a quick spritz, and a wipe down with the polishing cloth will get you back in business again.

It is available in the following colors: Red, Blue, Orange, Silver.

My only suggestion is to take a Sharpie, or an engraving tool, and mark the ends of the tubes with their respective components. Makes it a whole lot easier to determine the contents!

The ClearShot Lens Cleaning Kit is a great little package that is well designed. It is cheap insurance for those optics that frequently cost far more than the rifle they sit on, and for all of your lens cleaning needs.


ClearShot Lens Cleaning Kit
1-888-294-8109
Email: info@clear-shot.net
MSRP: $20.00

Tactical Reviews: TriSquare’s eXRS TSX 300 Two Way Radios

© 2009 The Range Reviews: Tactical

I have been looking forward to this review of the TriSquare eXRS TSX 300 radio. Two-way and license free communication radios, they are innovative and modestly priced for the technology and privacy received.



TriSquare’s eXRS (Extreme Radio Service) two way radio products are "new technology," hand-held, portable, and two-way radios. eXRS utilizes advanced digital frequency hopping spread spectrum (FHSS) techniques originally developed to provide stealth radio communications for the military. By constantly switching between many frequencies,rather than broadcasting on a single one, the FHSS techniques prevent eavesdropping and interference from other radios and scanners, including other eXRS two way radios if not tuned to the same channel. Furthermore they operate in the 900MHz range as opposed to the more common 400MHz, thereby staying out of that very crowded frequency range. And if that isn't enough, the transmissions are digital which gives a bit more privacy and clarity of signal.

All the pieces and ready to go!

Size comparison to a 30rd CMMG Immortal Magazine

Starting Out:

First thing I did was install the two 4.8V NiMH batteries into their respective radios. The Value Pac comes with a dual desk top charger and the AC adapter. I dropped them in for a daylong charging session. The Desktop Charger does have built in overcharge protection circuitry to prevent overcharging and damaging the batteries. When I picked them up, the radios battery level indicator read full. Note: To prolong the life of the rechargeable battery pack, the radio should be removed from the charger regularly and the batteries should be allowed to discharge. The full discharge and charge cycle keeps the battery in good condition.

Reasonably sized.

There are also two ear pieces that connect to the radios via standard Motorola connections. The wrap around earpiece molds to the shape of your ear and holds it in place securely but comfortably. The wire is long enough to be routed in whatever way you deem suitable.

Set up for unobtrusive Push-to-Talk.

I wrapped it around my belt, and then in my shirt and out the collar (While using the VOX setting.) to keep it unobtrusive and snag free. On PTT (Push to Talk) I routed it out between buttons and back in again.

Left Voice Actuated, Right Push-to-Talk.

Earpiece is light and stays in place.

Power:

It puts out the signal at one watt. That is enough that the Mrs and I, traveling in different vehicles, were able to communicate across several lanes of traffic and at varying distances of up to about one mile. That was the outside limit on the road. Possibly the metal car bodies affected the signal strength.

Another operator and I tested them in thick, subtropical brush and woods, and found that we had several hundred yards of range with no problem. We actually never reached a signal loss point. This would be great item for hunters working an area together, or checking in with each others before approaching a blind or stand. I can think of many applications for this when out in the field!

The Mrs and I also tried them in a "big box" store with plenty of aisles between us, and again had no problems.

On bicycles though, we never were able to get far enough to degrade the signal. I estimate we were 3.5 miles apart and still getting crystal clear signals. This of course is Florida near the coast with flat land and few obstacles.

Though they are not waterproof, we where caught in a rain squall which soaked us thoroughly. The radios were somewhat protected by our shirts, and I was pleased to see that they suffered no ill effects from the dampness.

The model TSX300 is available in a single pack and in a value-pack which includes 2 TSX300 radios, a dual port drop-in charger with AC wall adapter, 2 NiMH rechargeable battery packs and 2 VOX/PTT headsets.


I think this is a great value for the money. Clear communications, rugged, programmable, private, and once again reasonably priced. The only thing I did was add clear packing tape over the screen to protect it from the rough use I knew the kids and I would put it through. I was impressed with the package as a whole. If you need more headsets and units, they are available in single units, and as I mentioned earlier they are programmable so they synchronize to a single net.

TriSquare
eXRS TSX 300
MSRP: $99.00
Street: $79.99 to $99.00

Border Security: America is in Danger: Part I

© 2009 Albert A Rasch


I recently received an Email from my associate, "He-Who-Shall-Remain-Nameless," asking me to scratch the surface a small amount and see what was going on around the border towns between the United States of America and Mexico. Always happy to oblige.

It has been a long time since 1916. That's when Pancho Villa crossed the American border and was hounded by Blackjack Pershing and a young Lt Patton. And as some of you may be aware, the border towns on the Mexican side are suffering through a relentless wave of violence, murder, torture, kidnappings, and armed battles. The Mexican officials seem unwilling or unable to stem the tide of criminality. The state of violence is so great that one would be hard pressed not to call it a civil war.

The United States Joint Forces Command puts out a yearly study named the Joint Operating Environment.

"The Joint Operating Environment is intended to inform joint concept development and experimentation throughout the Department of Defense. It provides a perspective on future trends, shocks, contexts, and implications for future joint force commanders and other leaders and professionals in the national security field."

Though speculative in nature, it is meant to be a starting point for discussion.

I'll spare you all the details of the global threat assessment. Suffice it to say that you should not read this to your kids as a bedtime story. One paragraph in the 56 page document caught my eye. (PDF is available here.)

"The Mexican possibility may seem less likely, but the
government, its politicians, police, and judicial infrastructure
are all under sustained assault and pressure by criminal gangs
and drug cartels. How that internal conflict turns out over
the next several years will have a major impact on the stability
of the Mexican state. Any descent by Mexico into chaos
would demand an American response based on the serious
implications for homeland security alone."

Let us take a moment to analyze that for just a moment. Mexico falls into anarchy, turns into another Somalia, right at the doorstep of the United States of America. Not withstanding that one fifth of all Mexicans now live within the United States, (approximately 42 million documented, and possibly up to 30 million undocumented) the decent into chaos would cause untold American deaths, and misery the likes of which we have never seen. The powder kegs of the Barrios of LA, Chicago, and New York, could potentially destabilize large sections of American territory, to say nothing of tying up valuable and necessary resources.

"The drug business has become so large and so extended; it is like this octopus with something like 50 tentacles that has infiltrated every aspect of Mexican society today." "The very chief of the people in charge of investigating criminal activity was himself jailed for connections with the mafia." From Voice of America

Ciudad Juarez borders El Paso, Texas and is one of several frontlines of the narco-terrorists assault on the United States. Consider that 1500 Mexican citizens have been murdered in Juarez the last year alone, 5600 for all of Mexico. That's on the Mexican side.

Over the Rio Grande, life is still relatively calm. "'It’s strange to be the third-safest city in the United States right next to a war zone,' said Mayor John Cook of El Paso, as he gazed at the ramshackle neighborhoods of Juárez." NYT 01/23/09

None-the-less, Texas Governor Rick Perry went to El Paso to announce that has asked Washington for 1,000 more "boots on the ground" to enforce the border. TIME

It is just a matter of time before the war spills over onto our streets.



Tim Gaynor – Mon Mar 2, 9:42 PHOENIX (Reuters) – Hit men dressed in fake police tactical gear burst into a home in Phoenix, rake it with gunfire and execute a man. Armed kidnappers snatch victims from cars and even a local shopping mall across the Phoenix valley for ransom, turning the sun-baked city into the "kidnap capital" of the United States.



In the meantime American citizens are doing what they can.

Roger Barnett has been doing the job of the Border Patrol for them. Roger Barnett, 64, began tracking and holding illegal immigrants in 1998 and turning them over to the U.S. Border Patrol, after the damage to his property became intolerable. Not only were fences cut, but calves were killed and the illegals broke into his home.

“His Cross Rail Ranch near Douglas, Ariz., is known by federal and county law enforcement authorities as "the avenue of choice" for immigrants seeking to enter the United States illegally.” Jerry Seper, Washington Times (Contact)



To add insult to injury, 16 illegal aliens have sued Mr Barnett over supposed violations of their rights. Represented by MALDEF, a legal organization that bills itself as “the nation’s leading non-profit Latino legal organization.” “Often described as the “law firm of the Latino community,” MALDEF promotes equality and justice through litigation, advocacy, public policy, and community education in the areas of employment, immigrants’ rights, political access, voting rights, education, and language rights.” (About MALDEF), they have sued Barnett to the tune of $32 million.


On Febuary 18th, using the laws of this Nation, against a citizen of this Nation, for the benefit of people illegally entering this great Nation, MALDEF convinced a Judge and jury that Mr Barnett is “liable for assaulting and intentionally inflicting emotional distress on a group of immigrants he found on public land.” Arizona Jury Finds…

The judgment was for $73,352.00, far less than the Illegals and their representatives from MALDEF had wished for.

I find it very interesting that the language used by MALDEF in their News Release is accusatory, filled with innuendo, and as filled with racist overtones as their accusation of Mr Barnett was.

They also feel the need to indicate who the law firm that represented Mr Barnett was.

I wonder why?

In addition, MALDEF’s news release claims that the Illegals were on public property: “group of immigrants he found on public land.” The Cross Rails Ranch is in fact private property.

"This is my land. I’m the victim here," Mr. Barnett said. "When someone´s home and loved ones are in jeopardy and the government seemingly can’t do anything about it, I feel justified in taking matters into my own hands. And I always watch my back." AP



MALDEF National Headquarters
634 S Spring Street
Los Angeles, California 90014
213-629-2512

The contact persons for the Barnett Case are:
Estuardo Rodriguez: (202) 631-2892
Marisol Perez: (210) 224-5476

Estuardo Rodriguez is an attorney that specializes in public relations. He serves as a principal at the Raben Group. “The Raben Group combines "inside the Beltway" experience, insight and access with outside-the-box thinking for clients in the corporate, public and governmental sectors.” From their home page.

Marisol Perez is a MALDEF staff attorney and counsel for the plaintiffs.


To add to the volatile mix, we need to go further south to the Triple Border Region, where Argentina, Brazil and Paraguay meet. If you feel like sweating a little read this: Terrorist Base South of Border."Intelligence experts now assume the so-called jihadi spider web is moving north fast from Paraguay."

The next part will deal with transnational gangs, narco terrorists, and our tenuous grasp on national sovereignty.

Have a nice Day!

The Range.

Tactical Reviews: aLOKSAK LOKSAKs

© 2009 Albert A Rasch

Made by LOKSAK, aLOKSAK® bags are resealable element-proof storage bags, that hermetically seal with a slide and squeeze of the finger and thumb. That means absolutely no water, air, dust or humidity can get into the bag. Sort of like a Ziploc, but better.

They are designed for a wide range of applications and environments. They come in multiple sizes ranging from 5" X 4" to 32" X 16". You can fit anything from a PDA to a rifle in these bags. The transparent bags are flexible and puncture resistant, and can be sealed over and over again. The unique and patented materials, closure systems and manufacturing techniques used to fabricate the aLOKSAK meet the most rigorous testing standards including those of the US Navy. The US Army Special Forces Group Dive Detachment also uses them to protect their valuable electronics from salt water and hot humid conditions.

Well if they are that good, let me put them to the test.

Will it leak?

So I got a little crazy. I took a couple of 5.56 rounds, a carbide blade sharpener, and a ball of tissue paper, and stuffed them into the 4.5" X 7" LOKSAK, and...

Washer filling up; LOKSAK up to the challenge.

Dumped it all in the washing machine.

Well, after the cotton/heavy cycle I am happy to report that no water made it into the bag. The bags are puncture resistant. With the beating it took in the washer, I was pleasantly surprised that bag showed no sign of abrasion from the carbide sharpener.

Kodak EasyShare Z710 inthe LOKSAK

Feeling much more confident I took the large bag, a 12" X 12", and put my Kodak EasyShare Z710 digital point and shoot camera in it. The Mrs has a Fuji FinePix F50 SE so I borrowed that, to take pictures of what I was about to do. I went to the lake and submerged my Kodak. Fiddling around with the controls from outside the bag, I was able to turn it on and take a few pictures, none of which came out in that pea green soup near the edge. But the camera didn't get wet, and you can take pictures through the bag. I'll be testing that capability further.

This is going to take some work to wring the picture taking bugs out.

After squeezing as much air out as possible, I found that a left to right squeeze and slide, and a right to left reiteration, made sure that the seal was 100%. This is important, as any lack of seal will allow water to penetrate. Yes it takes a few more seconds to do right, but it is worth it. I have read of failures with the bag, and I suspect that either an excessive amount of air was left in the bag, which then forced its way out through the seals, or the bag was not sealed properly to begin with.

Keeping valuables safe.

The LOKSAK has a myriad of uses. It works great for its intended purpose of keeping water out, but it also works just as well at keeping things in. Dehydrated foods can be rehydrated by pouring boiling water into the bag. It can be used to protect valuable items from weather or enviromental damage.

So far, I really like the aLOKSAK. It performs as advertised, and does the job well. I Rate this another solid buy for those people that need to keep things safe and undamaged while outdoors.

And remember, it's made in the USA!!!

LOKSAK, Inc.
Street prices range from$6.99 to $11.99 depending on size.

How Free is Your State?

© 2009 Albert A Rasch

Here is an interesting report from the Mercatus Center at George Mason University. The Mercatus Center applies scholarly research to the problems facing policy makers with respect to economics.

Jason Sorens and William Ruger present a comprehensive ranking of American states on their public policies affecting individual freedoms in the economic, social, and personal spheres.

"We find that the freest states in the country are New Hampshire, Colorado, and South Dakota, which together achieve a virtual tie for first place. All three states feature low taxes and government spending and middling levels of regulation and paternalism. New York is the least free by a considerable margin, followed by New Jersey, Rhode Island, California, and Maryland. On personal freedom alone, Alaska is the clear winner, while Maryland brings up the rear. As for freedom in the different regions of the country, the Mountain and West North Central regions are the freest overall while the Middle Atlantic lags far behind on both economic and personal freedom. Regression analysis demonstrates that states enjoying more economic and personal freedom tend to attract substantially higher rates of internal net migration."

From Freedom in the 50 States

The full PDF report is available at Freedom in the 50 States.


Regards,
Albert A Rasch

Tactical Reviews: CMMG 28rd Immortal Magazines

© 2009 Albert A Rasch


As I have mentioned previously, 60 percent of firearm and accessory sales are now garnered by the "Tactical" segment. Who would have thought that fifty years after its inception, the AR15 would become "America's Rifle!"

Many of us, who up until now, have not paid close attention to this segment, have been surprised by the incredible growth. I for one, am pleased to see this phenomenal growth in the shooting arena!




While cruising the "Tactical" section I stopped at the CMMG booth. Lucas Stephenson, representative of CMMG, showed me the newest M16/AR15 magazine from CMMG. It is their 28rd magazine with stainless steel anti-tilt follower and triple braided wire spring.

Available in your choice of Mil-Spec phosphate gray or Black Teflon body.

CMMG claims that no other AR15 magazine offers greater performance under extreme conditions. It has their new stainless steel anti-tilt follower which features superb stability, minimal drag and unmatched durability.

The new CMMG braided wire spring gives 40% additional pressure over standard USGI springs. A nano-ceramic plated braided wire spring protects for over 400+ hours against salt sea spray. The twisted, multi-strand construction eliminates the magazine from ever taking a set. According to CMMG, no single strand chrome silicon spring can compare! This magazine spring can be altered to allow 30rds by removing 1-2 coils from the spring with a cutoff wheel. Remember, that CMMG cannot sell their M16/AR15 magazines in states where their purchase is restricted.

SKU Number: M-I30
MSRP: $29.95

Disassembly is easy:

Pry magazine floorplate up and out.

Slide the floorplate out.

And the components are laid out for cleaning.

Rock and Roll Baby!

CMMG also has their components available for retrofiting and repair of magazines.

CMMG Braided Spring with SSAT Follower

CMMG's new Stainless Steel Anti-Tilt, or SSAT follower.

Also new from CMMG is their Stainless Steel Anti-Tilt, or SSAT follower. The stainless offers some level of corrosion resistance, while the anti tilt engineering keeps the follower from binding on the way up or while reloading the magazine. the SSAT follower also provides the greatest strength with the lowest drag. If you are retrofitting the follower to your own magazines, the follower drops straight in and secures to bottom of standard mag spring for ease of installation.
This is a great buy for all those milsurp magazines you have picked up over the years.

SKU Number: M-SSAT
MSRP: $2.50

CMMG Braided Wire Replacement Spring

Helping out all the folks that already have magazines, CMMG has made their braided wire replacement spring available for purchase. Combined with the new CMMG SSAT follower, CMMG's new braided wire spring delivers AK reliability in an AR15 mag. The braided spring gives 40% additional pressure over standard USGI springs so rapid fire misfeeds are less likely. Nano-ceramic coating on the braided wire protects it against salt spray for 400+ hours. This is likely the the last spring you will ever need! The braided wire springs are run to maximum length and may be customized by cutting off 1-3 coils, if necessary. This ensures optimum performance for those running mags fully loaded or downloaded.

This is another great retrofit for milsurp magazines in your stock.
SKU Number: M-30-BW
MSRP: $5.95

CMMG is yet another American company striving hard to produce quality merchandise for the American people. They have a wide variety of upper receivers, barrels, buttstocks, and accessories for the AR15 platform. As with many other manufacturers of AR15 components and systems, CMMG is working very hard at catching up with the extreme demand for their merchandise.

If it performs as well as it looks, it will be a definite winner in my book!

Reviewer:
Albert A Rasch