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From the Desk of John Rourke – January 31th, 2017

So my son got fired from the job he has worked for the past year – Zaxby’s. It was his first job and he made me really proud how serious he took it. He missed a total of 1 day and brought a doctors note for that absence. He received a raise about a month ago. Why was he fired? He messed up and thought he was scheduled to work at 5:00pm Sunday – he was actually supposed to be there at 11:00am. He screwed up. They called him at 12:00 and asked where he was. He jumped in the shower and drove to work – only to have a manager with a big smile on his face tell him he wasn’t needed and to go home.

He called to get his schedule for the week and was told he was fired.

I struggle letting this go although there is not much to do. So frustrating.

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Interesting how the Left continues to try to out due itself in the hypocrisy department. Outrage over the limitation of citizens from 7 countries from entering the United States is widespread sparking “protests”. Interesting. I do not seem to remember any protests from Liberals when Obama banned refugees from Iraq for 6 months in 2011. How about Democratic President Roosevelt who rounded up American citizens and placed them in camps?

Naw…..ignore the facts.

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I’ve replaced almost all bulbs in my house with LED bulbs. Prices are dropping and they last so much longer. This is especially useful for those bulbs sitting high up and in difficult to get to areas.

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I’ve been experimenting with my Seek Thermal mini camera. For around $250 I am fairly impressed. I see my group having a few of these hooked to iPad Mini’s and monitoring them as part of a security surveillance system. Thermal continues to get cheaper. I’ll try to post some video’s showing what it looks like.

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I just discovered Microtech automatic knives. Sweet!!! They are legal here in South Carolina. Dealer for these high-end knives is a few miles from my house.

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Something for you……..

There are many reasons why so many love their Kindle and Amazon Fire tablets. One huge advantage is you could literally go years without every buying a book to read as there are tons of free eBooks available. Don’t have a Kindle or Fire? No problem. There are apps that can be installed on most any cell phone or computer for free. No excuses!

Today’s Freebies

Prepping Made Easy

How To Survive A Mass Shooting

Wise Prepping

Solar Power Demystified

Worldwide Effects of Nuclear War

NOTE: If you see a free Kindle book that your interested in get it now. Prices change often and there is no way to tell how long the book will remain free. Before purchasing a free Kindle book on Amazon make certain the book is still free by making sure the price is $0.00. If it lists a price or says “read for free” or has a price for prime members the book is not free anymore.

January 30, 2017
From the Desk of John Rourke – January 30th, 2017

It’s disappointing to hear a segment of Trump supporters bail on him over one issue or even two as they disagree with Trump’s handling of certain issues. No one is perfect and there will be no President that does everything that everyone will agree with. Let’s have some perspective and realistic vision.

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Cyberterrorism and hacking is a growing concern. Just this month hackers interrupted Washington, DC closed-circuit police camera systems. Reports are common that banks, businesses, and people are getting hacked. Due to how frequent this occurs it fails to get the notoriety which they once received.

What will happen should a nuclear power station or major electrical power station get hacked?

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My stippling work continues onto another PMAG. This time a much more aggressive and effective pattern. Sharing with a few group members impression was positive but felt it was too aggressive. I don’t think so at all. The difference grasping ability is significant and tearing a mag from a chest rig is much more positive. Imagine a hand covered in slimy blood – the stippling would make a huge difference. Skateboard tape would assist as well.

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We’ve almost got one month down for 2017. So far things going well on my end. Good time to take a look at your goals and objectives and adjust as needed.

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Something for you……

January 29, 2017
Quote: Abraham Lincoln on the United States Role on Earth

“My dream is of a place and a time where America will once again be seen as the last best hope of earth. “

Abraham Lincoln

January 29, 2017
From the Desk of the John Rourke – January 27th, 2017

President of Mexico cancel’s trip to Washington. Big loss.

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As I have gotten older I find myself thinking “If I could go back and do it over again I would have…” – can’t stand it. What a waste of time. I don’t dwell on it like I used to years ago but still – a waste. Now my largest concern is for my kids and trying to guide them through their growing into manhood.

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Next segment in my American Reformation series coming likely next week.

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Have a great weekend everyone! Go out an have some fun. Go outside and enjoy nature and breath some fresh air. Go grab a bottle of Hoppe’s No. 9 gun cleaning solvent and take a whiff – you know you love it.

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Something for you…..

There are many reasons why so many love their Kindle and Amazon Fire tablets. One huge advantage is you could literally go years without every buying a book to read as there are tons of free eBooks available. Don’t have a Kindle or Fire? No problem. There are apps that can be installed on most any cell phone or computer for free. No excuses!

Today’s Freebies

The Walking Dead #1 – comic book

10 Step Prepper’s Survival Guide

Apocalyptic Survival

Foraging – Amazing Survival Skill

The Complete Guide to Knots

NOTE: If you see a free Kindle book that your interested in get it now. Prices change often and there is no way to tell how long the book will remain free. Before purchasing a free Kindle book on Amazon make certain the book is still free by making sure the price is $0.00. If it lists a price or says “read for free” or has a price for prime members the book is not free anymore.

January 26, 2017
From the Desk of John Rourke – January 26th, 2017

Terrible news about Mary Tyler Moore. Grew up watching her TV shows. She gave many people a lot of laughs.

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So looking forward to seeing the construction of the wall begin stopping illegal immigration from Mexico.

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The stock market is climbing, the economy is growing – and silver prices are going back up. Something has to give and I suspect it’s silver. I see prices in the not-to-distant future dropping dramatically. I will be taking advantage.

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Just finished The Jakarta Pandemic. Fantastic book and extremely entertaining. I haven’t experienced that level of suspense at the end of a book in quite some time. Bought and started listening to the sequel The Perseid Collapse. So far enjoying it.

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Something for you…..

There are many reasons why so many love their Kindle and Amazon Fire tablets. One huge advantage is you could literally go years without every buying a book to read as there are tons of free eBooks available. Don’t have a Kindle or Fire? No problem. There are apps that can be installed on most any cell phone or computer for free. No excuses!

Today’s Freebies

Survival Mistakes to Avoid

Baby Steps to Backyard Chickens

The Seed Saving Guide

Urban Gardening

Apple Growing

NOTE: If you see a free Kindle book that your interested in get it now. Prices change often and there is no way to tell how long the book will remain free. Before purchasing a free Kindle book on Amazon make certain the book is still free by making sure the price is $0.00. If it lists a price or says “read for free” or has a price for prime members the book is not free anymore.

January 25, 2017
Army adopts the Sig P320 as new standard issue sidearm

The US Army has selected the Sig P320 to replace the Beretta M9 service pistol. I’ve never been a huge fan of Sig however that bias is really not based on much. I owned a Sig 2022 9mm several years ago and did not care for it. I need to check out the P320.

The Sig Sauer P320 is a modular pistol in that it has an internal chassis that can be moved from frame to frame to accommodate different configurations – and calibers.

The Sig was selected over other contenders such as the Glock 17 and 19 so obviously it performed extremely well. Reading over at Sig’s website I’m very intrigued. The ability to adapt the pistol to a variety of different configurations and calibers is a huge advantage over buying multiple firearms.

So what caiber did the Army choose? From my understanding is they haven’t. The have the option to use 9mm, .40S&W, and .357 Sig. I am sure by far 9mm will be the caliber utilized.

Rourke

January 25, 2017
From the Desk of John Rourke – January 25th, 2017

Some discussions around brass versus steel-cased ammunition use awhile back has been on my mind. I have no issues stocking and shooting steel in my AK – however only use it for practice in my AR. I also never shoot steel in any of my pistols. Doesn’t make sense does t? Actually for me it does.

The only issues I have had shooting steel in my AR’s has been two FTF(fail to fire) rounds. Primer hits failed to ignite. I ejected the round and kept going and both occurred during training. This is two rounds out of a couple thousand – not bad. I have read on forums that others have similar experiences. I have not read the same in relation to steel in AK’s. Why might this be? I suspect it is related to hammer impact in the AR versus AK. AK’s are just less picky when it comes to hard primers than AR’s. AK’s typically have heavier trigger pulls than AR’s and this involves hammer springs to a certain extent. Lighter hammer springs increase the odds of a light primer strike.

Now – why not shoot steel in my pistols? Simply the cost savings are just not there – and reliability is certainly an issue. First I see very little in steel-cased product available. Second, the cost of steel versus brass is as small as a couple dollars per 50. Lastly I have had issues with steel – and aluminum – in some of my handguns due to the frictional difference in case material compared to brass. The rougher, less-smooth steel/aluminum takes more effort to push it out of the top of a magazine than brass.

Any concern over wear? Not me.

I continue to take advantage of the less expensive steel-cased ammo in my AR’s for practice/training.

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Governor Jerry Brown(CA) states he will not back down to immigration laws that may be made more restrictive with the new Administration.

Wonderful.

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Working out has been going fairly well. Diet has been decent except on weekends where it has been a struggle. Overall not bad and will be cranking the intensity next week.

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Hope everyone is having a great week.

There are many reasons why so many love their Kindle and Amazon Fire tablets. One huge advantage is you could literally go years without every buying a book to read as there are tons of free eBooks available. Don’t have a Kindle or Fire? No problem. There are apps that can be installed on most any cell phone or computer for free. No excuses!

Today’s Freebies

Gardening: The Complete Guide

Do It Yourself Survival Hacks

Survival Pantry

Quick and Easy Meals – 30 Minutes

Backyard Chickens

NOTE: If you see a free Kindle book that your interested in get it now. Prices change often and there is no way to tell how long the book will remain free. Before purchasing a free Kindle book on Amazon make certain the book is still free by making sure the price is $0.00. If it lists a price or says “read for free” or has a price for prime members the book is not free anymore.

January 24, 2017
From the Desk of John Rourke – January 24th, 2017

Was part of a discussion on Facebook where someone said it really doesn’t matter if fewer people showed for the Inauguration last week than showed in 2008 or 2012. I disagreed from the perspective that it simply isn’t true – thus holding the media accountable for their lies should be done. I was told that I was playing “their” game – I assume meaning the mainstream media. Not sure what they mean – but wasn’t going to argue. I stated my case and that was it.

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Saw this recipe for Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake. Gained 5 pounds just reading it.

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Picked up a vehicle magnetic gun mount for my Jeep JK. So far really like it. Magnets are a great option for mounting guns in a variety of places including closets, under the bed, side of a nightstand, and even on the door of a gun safe/cabinet. Fairly inexpensive as well. I bought mine from http://go-mags.net/.

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Reviewing all the files in my electronic preparedness library I have included a boatload of movies, TV shows, and music. These would be extremely welcome in any long term grid down situation.

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Something for you…..

There are many reasons why so many love their Kindle and Amazon Fire tablets. One huge advantage is you could literally go years without every buying a book to read as there are tons of free eBooks available. Don’t have a Kindle or Fire? No problem. There are apps that can be installed on most any cell phone or computer for free. No excuses!

Today’s Freebies

How To Preserve Eggs

Bow Hunting For Beginners

The Cuban Missile Crisis

In Time of Emergency A Citizen’s Handbook on Nuclear Attack(1968)

A Beginner’s Guide to Self Sufficiency

NOTE: If you see a free Kindle book that your interested in get it now. Prices change often and there is no way to tell how long the book will remain free. Before purchasing a free Kindle book on Amazon make certain the book is still free by making sure the price is $0.00. If it lists a price or says “read for free” or has a price for prime members the book is not free anymore.

January 23, 2017
Netflix Pick: Last Man Standing

Being cable and satellite free I rely heavily on Internet streaming for my entertainment. Last Man Standing is one of the greatest finds on Netflix I have made. Love this comedy!

Summary:

Mike Baxter (Tim Allen) is the quintessential man’s man. Unfortunately, there isn’t a lot of room for that at home where he lives with his three daughters and wife, Vanessa (Nancy Travis). The only other male in the house is his oldest daughter’s young son, Boyd. Now, after being a stay-at-home mom for years, Vanessa goes back to work, forcing Mike to take on more parental responsibility than ever before. But his daughters aren’t prepared for their old-fashioned, hotheaded patriarch to take over the house. When not at home, Mike is surrounded by men at his job at sporting-goods retailer Outdoor Man, which sells items like guns, jerky and camouflage recliners.

Shows rotate on Netflix so there’s no telling how long it will be available. Right now 5 seasons are available.

Great show and I especially love the political perspectives brought up. Tim Allen does a great job.

Rourke

January 23, 2017
From the Desk of John Rourke – January 23rd, 2017

Madonna states she has been thinking of blowing up the White House. OK Secret Service – where are you?

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It is amazing the rumors and flat out insanity spewed by people that have no idea what they are talking about. My wife is a teacher and many of her co-workers are suggesting all kinds of things about Trump, healthcare, and education. Several said Trump is taking teachers assistants out of the classroom. Hmmm……Trump doesn’t have anything to do with such a thing. Several have made statements about how Trump is going to take away healthcare “benefits” they currently have. Again – that is not Trump himself but regardless no doubt changes are coming. Democrat’s and Republican’s alike have some very similar beliefs on fundamental characteristics of the modified healthcare system.

Regardless of who does what the line at the emergency room and local urgent care will likely remain extremely long.

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Worked for awhile over the weekend on my electronic preparedness library. Certainly time consuming but getting quite a bit together. Organizing is what takes the most time. Looking for a way to share with everyone when I get done.

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Looking at picking up a Windows 10 laptop from GearBest.com. This is a Chinese brand laptop that receives pretty good reviews from multiple sources. Under $200 isn’t bad. I’ve been using a Chromebook for the last 3-4 years and it serves me extremely well however a Windows-based laptop would come in handy ever so often. Right now I use my wife’s when necessary.

It’s interesting there are many popular brands over in Europe, Japan, and China that compete with common brands we recognize here in the states – but we have never heard of them.

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Picture of my bug out bag and custom Ruger 10/22.

There are many reasons why so many love their Kindle and Amazon Fire tablets. One huge advantage is you could literally go years without every buying a book to read as there are tons of free eBooks available. Don’t have a Kindle or Fire? No problem. There are apps that can be installed on most any cell phone or computer for free. No excuses!

Today’s Freebies

Gardening: A Complete Guide

Dirt Cheap SHTF Prepping

BUSHCRAFT: A Complete Beginners Guide

The Perseid Collapse – Book 1 – FICTION

Tactical Morse Code

NOTE: If you see a free Kindle book that your interested in get it now. Prices change often and there is no way to tell how long the book will remain free. Before purchasing a free Kindle book on Amazon make certain the book is still free by making sure the price is $0.00. If it lists a price or says “read for free” or has a price for prime members the book is not free anymore.

January 22, 2017
Review: Zanflare F1 LED Flashlight

Introduction:

The Zanflare F1 LED Flashlight is a brand new entry into the high performance flashlight market. Throwing in excess of 1200 lumens the Zanflare’s narrow beam penetrates the night like a hot knife through butter – just like a flashlight should. Its ability to charge via common mini-USB without opening the battery compartment is a welcome feature. The F1 is turned on by a tail cap button and then modes are selected via a barrel button.

Running in the mid-price($40) range it is affordable for most but not all.

Specifications:

Brand: zanflare
Model: F1
Emitters: Cree XP-L V6
Emitters Quantity: 1
Lumens Range: >1000Lumens
Luminous Flux: 1240LM
Mode: 7 (Turbo; High; Mid; Low; Moonlight; Strobe; SOS)
Battery Type: 18650, CR123
Battery Quantity: 1 x 18650 or 2 x CR123 batteries (not included)
Mode Memory: Yes
Rechargeable: Yes
Waterproof Standard: IP-68 Standard Water-resistant
LED Lifespan: 5000h or more

Power, Modes and Output:

The Zanflare F1’s beam is created via a CREE XP-L LED and an incredibly smooth reflector.

Modes: The are 7 in total

Turbo(1240 lumens)

High(590 lumens)

Mid(290 lumens)

Low(50 lumens)

Moonlight(1 lumen)

Strobe

SOS

I had no way of verifying the levels listed above other than comparing to other lights of known lumen levels. I have no reason to doubt the accuracy of the stated lumens.

Power: The Zanflare is powered by two CR123 batteries or a single 18650 rechargeable Li-Ion battery.

Operation:

Two switches – The tail cap switch turns the unit on and off while the button mounted on the side of the case allows mode manipulation. Selecting the desired mode is not difficult. Basically pressing the side button moves from one mode to the other.

The brightest mode – or Turbo – is accessed with a quick double-click. This throws the maximum 1240 lumens for approx 30 seconds then automatically diverts to High. Single taps goes through the standard brightness modes. A long press bring up the Strobe mode – and while in Strobe a single click will access the SOS mode. These two modes – for me – are a waste but they are there if needed.

Charging:

Beneath the side switch there is a metal ring which conceals the charging port. Unscrewing the ring reveals a micro USB port used for charging. Any standard USB charging cable will work to charge the internal battery. A small light turns red when charging and green when charging is complete.

Obviously make certain a rechargeable battery is being used prior to trying to recharge.

Notice red charging light above.

Performance:

I like a bright penetrating beam versus a flood light. The Zanflare F1 is right up my alley.

Here are a few pictures of the F1 in action:

ABOVE: Using the Zanflare F1 heading into the woods while hunting.

ABOVE: Headlights from my Jeep Wrangler after arriving to hunting area.

BELOW: Same headlights on the right-side with the addition of the Zanflare F1 on the left.

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A picture is worth a thousand words……

Final Words

The Zanflare F1 is one of my favorite flashlights. The combination of simple operation, fairly narrow barrel size, recharging capability, and 1240 lumens is an excellent combination.

High recommendation.

For more information visit the Zanflare F1 product page.

Rourke

January 22, 2017
President Donald Trump Inauguration Speech

In case you missed it here is President Trumps speech he made after being sworn in. I found it to be uplifting and just what I was hoping he would say. Confident. Inspiring, Positive. Non-politically correct.

Here you go…..

January 20, 2017
From the Desk of John Rourke – January 20th, 2017

Inauguration Day. I pray that Trump is able to effectively institute a good percentage of his policies and prove the naysayers wrong. No doubt this is a pivotal time in history. Time will tell the true tale of his success and failure. I’ll tell you one thing – I am loving the sound of “former” President Barack Obama.

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Picked up some Monarch 45ACP ammunition – 300 rounds. Price was $13.99 a box. Really wasn’t on ,y radar but couldn’t pass up a great deal.

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Looks like some really cool stuff is being shown at the SHOT Show. Wish they would host it on the east coast. Glad to see Stag Arms back in business. My Stag AR has been a phenomenal rifle for years.

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Watched The Equalizer with Denzel Washington for about the 16th time. Great movie.

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If you are on Instagram please go follow me and shoot me a message letting me know. I will be doing some live stream events on IG soon.

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Latest picture of Jake and Bella hanging out in the backyard……

There are many reasons why so many love their Kindle and Amazon Fire tablets. One huge advantage is you could literally go years without every buying a book to read as there are tons of free eBooks available. Don’t have a Kindle or Fire? No problem. There are apps that can be installed on most any cell phone or computer for free. No excuses!

Today’s Freebies

SURVIVAL GUIDE! Bug Out Bag Basics

SURVIVAL GUIDE! Off The Grid

4 in 1 Survival Box Set

Let’s Grill!!

Paleo For Beginners

NOTE: If you see a free Kindle book that your interested in get it now. Prices change often and there is no way to tell how long the book will remain free. Before purchasing a free Kindle book on Amazon make certain the book is still free by making sure the price is $0.00. If it lists a price or says “read for free” or has a price for prime members the book is not free anymore.

January 19, 2017
Was buying a bunch of magazines prior to the election bad?

The sales of guns, ammo, and magazines was massive prior to the election. Most of us thought Killary was going to contaminate the Oval Office for sure and along with that the risk of significant gun control measures was high. Hey – I’m not disappointed! Gun control seems to be way down the list of things to be concerned about. With that said – a question:

Was buying a bunch of magazines prior to the election bad?

Absolutely not. It’s risk versus reward. No one knows the future and what the anti-gun crowd will be able to accomplish. What I do know is we have a reprieve. Take advantage.

The future remains uncertain in so many ways.

Rourke

The Prepper’s Drone…..

January 19, 2017
From the Desk of John Rourke – January 19th, 2017

You never know what will happen. My next door neighbor – a 30-something mother of two young boys has been diagnosed with colon cancer. She’s been in the hospital of 18 days and it doesn’t look good.

Hate to be a downer but count your blessings while you can.

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One more day…..

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So what is the value of an old Gameboy, PSP, or other handheld gaming system for a post-grid failure world? How about a battery operated DVD player with screen? I think very valuable. These and other devices such as mp3 players will provide much needed distraction and morale-boosting entertainment.

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What amazes me is Miley Cyrus and commit numerous lewd acts and not be considered offensive – but Phil Robertson expressing his 1st Amendment rights is.

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Had a request for closer shots of the stippling I’ve been doing. Here you go…..

There are many reasons why so many love their Kindle and Amazon Fire tablets. One huge advantage is you could literally go years without every buying a book to read as there are tons of free eBooks available. Don’t have a Kindle or Fire? No problem. There are apps that can be installed on most any cell phone or computer for free. No excuses!

Today’s Freebies

Herbal Remedies: Herbal Remedies Guide to Achieving Ultimate Health

Essential Oils: Detailed Beginners Guide

Essential Oils: One Drop at a Time

Jam’s and Jelly’s

The Art of War

NOTE: If you see a free Kindle book that your interested in get it now. Prices change often and there is no way to tell how long the book will remain free. Before purchasing a free Kindle book on Amazon make certain the book is still free by making sure the price is $0.00. If it lists a price or says “read for free” or has a price for prime members the book is not free anymore.

January 18, 2017
From the Desk of John Rourke – January 18th, 2017

Pretty much blew my diet this past weekend but not terribly so. Had some pizza, a little popcorn. No big deal. Was very strict all last week and back on it this week.

Really enjoying hitting the gym daily – or twice daily.

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I refuse to put ketchup in the refrigerator. It just doesn’t make sense to me to pour a cold substance on a hot hamburger. Guess I’m just crazy. By the way – I’m Heinz all the way.

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At a first date:

He: “I work with animals every day!”

She: “Oh how sweet! What is it that you do?”

He: “I’m a butcher.”

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Making a few tweaks to the site. If you see something you like – let me know. Same goes for if you see something that just sucks.

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You might get a kick outta this one…..

There are many reasons why so many love their Kindle and Amazon Fire tablets. One huge advantage is you could literally go years without every buying a book to read as there are tons of free eBooks available. Don’t have a Kindle or Fire? No problem. There are apps that can be installed on most any cell phone or computer for free. No excuses!

Today’s Freebies

EMP No Power: Book 0

Paracord: The Ultimate Paracord Projects for Beginners

21 Things You Need For Your Bugout Bag

SURVIVAL GUIDE! Bug In & Hunker Down

Foraging

NOTE: If you see a free Kindle book that your interested in get it now. Prices change often and there is no way to tell how long the book will remain free. Before purchasing a free Kindle book on Amazon make certain the book is still free by making sure the price is $0.00. If it lists a price or says “read for free” or has a price for prime members the book is not free anymore.

January 17, 2017
Want to own a .50 cal? You likely already do…….

OK – I’m not talking .50 BMG here but a devastatingly powerful round is likely readily available to you. I am referring to the Winchester 12 gauge Super-X BRI Sabot Slug. This is a .50 caliber 437 grain slug sent down range upwards of 1400fps……and 1800 pounds of energy. “BOOM!!”

Ballistics are not everything. Not a believer? Just ask every single shooter who says 9mm is wimpy and 45ACP is everything. There is something to be said for shear mass and power and if that’s what you are looking for the Winchester BRI Sabot Slug is an excellent choice.

Every 12 gauge slug is a beast but I’m partial to the BRI sabot. I witnessed my brother take a deer with one back in the early 90’s and really enjoyed shooting it.

Oh – want to see some long range slug shooting? Check out this video.

Rourke

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Need clean water?

January 17, 2017
From the Desk of John Rourke – January 17th, 2017

Finished my first stippling job. I was exceedingly detailed and it turned out great. I would estimate about 2 hours on this one PMAG. Worth it? Sure. The level of gripping surface is greatly enhanced. Will I do all my mag’s? Nope. Too time consuming however I am experimenting with different patterns that take less time. Remember it is function over cosmetic appearance.

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I considered taking Friday off to stay at home and watch the Inauguration. Likely will just watch or listen to it at work. For my locale I’m not concerned about violence or massive protects. It may happen in Washington and other areas around the country. There is no doubt radical and violent factions exist to disrupt events around the Inauguration and the Trump presidency.

Check out this video:

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I’ve been putting back some gasoline and all I have are plastic gas cans. I need to change this and purchase all metal 5 gallon cans. There are a variety of outlets for this but most are extremely expensive. Surplus cans are rarely found at least for decent prices. Tractor Supply has some however they are in excess of $40.

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Part of my household secondary stream of income – my wife has started a business selling custom vinyl decals, t-shirts, and glass etching. No website yet everything is through Facebook. Pretty cool stuff. Below is a vinyl graphic for a Yeti cup.

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3 more days…….

There are many reasons why so many love their Kindle and Amazon Fire tablets. One huge advantage is you could literally go years without every buying a book to read as there are tons of free eBooks available. Don’t have a Kindle or Fire? No problem. There are apps that can be installed on most any cell phone or computer for free. No excuses!

Today’s Freebies

Surviving a Disaster: Evacuation Strategies and Emergency Kits for Staying Alive

Prepping On a Budget

Guns and Ammunition for Survival

Bug Out Bag: What Should A Prepper Pack

America’s Sunset: A Post Apocalyptic Fight for Survival

Smart Prepping

NOTE: If you see a free Kindle book that your interested in get it now. Prices change often and there is no way to tell how long the book will remain free. Before purchasing a free Kindle book on Amazon make certain the book is still free by making sure the price is $0.00. If it lists a price or says “read for free” or has a price for prime members the book is not free anymore.

January 16, 2017
Rourke’s Recommendations

Every couple weeks or so I recommend a few things such as movies, books, and an assortment of gear – all kinds of stuff. Some of these are related to survival & preparedness – while others are just stuff I like. Most are on Amazon but not all.

So – for this week……here is my list:

Books:

How to Survive the End of the World As We Know It

The Borrowed World – Book One

Pillar To The Sky

Movies:

Navy Seals

The Rock

Face/Off

Gear:

Hoppe’s No. 9 Bore Cleaner

Gun Scrubber

Cyalume Lightsticks – Green 10/pk.

January 16, 2017
From the Desk of John Rourke – January 16th, 2017

Hope everyone had a great weekend. Spent most all day Saturday with Jonny – my oldest son who just turned 18. Had a great time with the two of us going out for a late breakfast, playing some pool, bowling, and a little shopping. Need more days like this.

Due to the above spent very little time on the blog. Well worth it.

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Driving around I continued to listed to The Jakarta Pandemic via my Audible app. Fantastic book. I’m enjoying it as it really seems realistic and the main character – Alex Fletcher – is pretty much a normal guy. Great story.

Love listening to audio books. I use my phone and sometimes my computer or tablet. If interested in trying audio books there is a banner down below you can click on and start off with two free books. This is for new customers.

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New England moves on in the playoffs. YES!!!!!

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Over the weekend 1776PatriotUSA.com moved up a few spots over at Top Prepper Sites. Appreciate the votes.

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Iran states they will not renegotiate the nuclear deal – no matter what. I do not believe it should be renegotiated it should be cancelled/abandoned/scrapped. That government cannot be trusted to abide by an agreement. The United States should support regime change – which it has not done over the past 8 years.

There are many reasons why so many love their Kindle and Amazon Fire tablets. One huge advantage is you could literally go years without every buying a book to read as there are tons of free eBooks available. Don’t have a Kindle or Fire? No problem. There are apps that can be installed on most any cell phone or computer for free. No excuses!

Today’s Freebies

Must Have AR-15 Upgrades

Trophy Whitetail Deer

Bass Fishing Secrets

Amazing Knots

Backpack Cooking

NOTE: If you see a free Kindle book that your interested in get it now. Prices change often and there is no way to tell how long the book will remain free. Before purchasing a free Kindle book on Amazon make certain the book is still free by making sure the price is $0.00. If it lists a price or says “read for free” or has a price for prime members the book is not free anymore.

January 15, 2017
From the Desk of John Rourke – January 13th, 2017

7 days to go…..

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I have seen it often said that there is no place for discussion of government and politics on a preparedness website. Obviously I completely disagree. I think they are as intertwined as ammunition is to guns. So many of the situations we prepare for are directly related to government in some way. EMP and economic collapse are just two examples.

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I’ve not built an AR upper yet. Buddy of mine recently completed an AR-10. Being that I want to get one this year I may start picking up parts and do it myself.

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The Marines have now adopted the Magpul Gen 3 PMAG. It’s about time.

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Oh – about to get passed on the Top Prepper Sites list. Would appreciate any votes if you have a moment. Just click HERE.

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Hope someone can take advantage of the free Kindle ebooks listed below. Been posting them the last few days. Quality varies but free is free. I want to get the new 8″ model Amazon Fire.

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Something for you…..

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Hope everyone has a great weekend!!!

There are many reasons why so many love their Kindle and Amazon Fire tablets. One huge advantage is you could literally go years without every buying a book to read as there are tons of free eBooks available. Don’t have a Kindle or Fire? No problem. There are apps that can be installed on most any cell phone or computer for free. No excuses!

Today’s Freebies

Survival Smart

Woodcraft and Camping

Among Wolves

BLACKOUT: After the Storm

Survival Medicine and First Aid

Home Canning Step by Step Guide

NOTE: If you see a free Kindle book that your interested in get it now. Prices change often and there is no way to tell how long the book will remain free. Before purchasing a free Kindle book on Amazon make certain the book is still free by making sure the price is $0.00. If it lists a price or says “read for free” or has a price for prime members the book is not free anymore.

January 12, 2017
What If You Had To Stay In a Bunker For 2 Weeks?

From the “Q & A” post yesterday Methane asked the following question:

If you had to stay in a bunker for 2+ weeks due to nuclear attack, what would be some of the supplies you would ensure to have besides food/water? After watching “ALONE”, I wonder if I could survive with only 1 other person in solitaire.

Questions like this can really get you thinking. Now the question specifically references nuclear attack so there are certainly items revolving around that situation. Beyond that many items could be useful for numerous unfortunate events.

Here are a few things I’ve thought about…..

Radiation detection equipment

entertainment – PSP game system, portable DVD player with DVD’s, games, etc.

flashlights

batteries

radio

pictures of loved ones

Bible

comfortable bed

pen and paper

Chuck Norris

cold beer

clean clothes

deodorant

chocolate

place to go to the bathroom

spare glasses

toothbrush/toothpaste

Bacon……lot’s of bacon.

Just a few ideas’s. How about you?

Rourke

January 12, 2017
From the Desk of John Rourke – January 12th, 2017

I listened to quite a bit of the Q&A with Jeff Sessions at his confirmation hearing on Day 1. Thought he gave some great answers. Political opposition is what it is – political opposition.

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Ordered my 3rd pair of Merrell hiking shoes – love ’em. None are wore out just found some good deals and took advantage. I have two pair I wear now and the third will be put away. Waterproof – and super comfortable.

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Something I do not hear much about in the preparedness community is concern over a pandemic. Seems that it is only a matter of time before a major outbreak occurs. I suppose statistically chances are so small that most – like myself – are concerned with other things. Just started reading The Jakarta Pandemic. So far really good.

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The weekend is almost here……

There are many reasons why so many love their Kindle and Amazon Fire tablets. One huge advantage is you could literally go years without every buying a book to read as there are tons of free eBooks available. Don’t have a Kindle or Fire? No problem. There are apps that can be installed on most any cell phone or computer for free. No excuses!

Today’s Freebies

The Source: A Wildfire Prequel

Ebola Pandemic Survival Lists

Minimalist Living Box Set of Three eBooks

Mini Farming: A Beginners Guide

Compost 101

The Survivalist Book 1

NOTE: If you see a free Kindle book that your interested in get it now. Prices change often and there is no way to tell how long the book will remain free. Before purchasing a free Kindle book on Amazon make certain the book is still free by making sure the price is $0.00. If it lists a price or says “read for free” or has a price for prime members the book is not free anymore.

January 11, 2017
Q & A Day……45GAP, 357 Sig, 327 Federal…….and 10mm

Ask a question and I will give you an answer. It can be about pretty much anything – politics, firearms, current events, survival, preparedness, or “What if Batman get’s bitten by a vampire?“ – whatever.

Go ahead – “make my day.”

JR

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From the Supply Depot: RECOMMENDED MOVIES

Enemy at the Gates

The Hunt for Red October

U-571

Apollo 13

The Right Stuff

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Looking for Preparedness Supplies? Check out the Fantastic Monthly Sale at Emergency Essentials.

Emergency Essentials has been an industry leader for over 25 years. Excellent service and prices have kept them leader of the pack.

From food storage products to camping supplies Emergency Essentials carries it all.

January 11, 2017
From the Desk of John Rourke – January 11th, 2017

Just remembered something: Just before Christmas the front office staff where I worked decided to have a gift exchange. Thee was a game involved although the details really aren’t important. Everyone was to bring a gift valued at around $20. I brought a single 1 ounce American Silver Eagle. Everyone was fascinated by the silver. I heard several people say they had never held “real silver” before.

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Below is the typical breakdown of my daily diet. This is running around 1650 calories – which is likely too restrictive but a couple days in I am feeling OK so far. I may move up to 1800. Goal is fat loss however I need to maintain or even gain muscle mass at the same time which is a delicate balance. I would like to get my protein upwards of 200 grams to assist in the muscle-aspect of my plan.

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My interest in picking up “survival supplies from the 80’s” continues. I’ve been scouring eBay for deals on a Smokey Mountain Toothpick, Buckmaster survival knife – and Gerber BMF knife(pictured below) – among other things.

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The news stories of businesses that are moving back to the United States or not moving out of the country is extremely encouraging. While I still believe that the economy will see some extremely trying times in the future a reprieve is welcome.

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Something for you….

There are many reasons why so many love their Kindle and Amazon Fire tablets. One huge advantage is you could literally go years without every buying a book to read as there are tons of free eBooks available. Don’t have a Kindle or Fire? No problem. There are apps that can be installed on most any cell phone or computer for free. No excuses!

Today’s Freebies

Preparedness and Survival Guide for Beginners

Happy, Healthy, and Prepared: Top Tips from the Hosts of the Survival Mom Radio Network

Survival: Bushcraft Guide

The Prepper’s Guide to Food Storage

Wilderness Survival

Herbal Remedies

NOTE: If you see a free Kindle book that your interested in get it now. Prices change often and there is no way to tell how long the book will remain free. Before purchasing a free Kindle book on Amazon make certain the book is still free by making sure the price is $0.00. If it lists a price or says “read for free” or has a price for prime members the book is not free anymore.

January 10, 2017
From the Desk of John Rourke – January 10th, 2017

Interesting that there were several mainstream media outlets including CNN that edited pictures of Florida mass murderer and terrorist Esteban Santiago to remove his Muslim hand sign from pictures.

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Let me make this perfectly clear: Although I have promoted the purchase and use of steel case ammunition as a practice cost saving I do not promote their use in a defensive situation. Steel cased ammunition can provide for increased rounds and more training thus better preparation. They are certainly less reliable and somewhat less accurate than their brass-cased relatives. Steel cased = practice. Brass cased = reliability/performance.

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My 2017 Gold’s Gym Challenge start got delayed until yesterday due to weather. Spent Sunday prepping food for the week. I truly believe if I stick to my plan I can place. We’ll see. Any success is still success.

Great workout Monday and diet plan went well.

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Man get’s a ticket for warming up car in his own driveway.

This is government overreach at its best. Man leaves a car running on his own property and he gets a fine. Insanity.

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Picked up three more American Silver Eagle 1 ounce pieces. Folks over at eBay are offering some at very competitive prices. I haven’t posted the weekly “Prep’s This Week” in a bit. Ever since switching to Saturday’s I’ve struggled to remember. Hmmm……maybe another day or every couple weeks.

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Something for you……

January 9, 2017
Bad Things Happen In a Free Society

It’s an inevitable question asked by children everywhere. There is no easy answer. I remember in 10th grade having a local minister visit my home and attempt to answer. The shooting in Fort Lauderdale, Florida just begs the question as to why bad things happen.

A simple answer could be if bad things didn’t happen then there would be no comparison – no reference – which to understand what is good. In my mind the answer is quite simple – evil. There is evil in this world. While we have wonderful, generous, and compassionate people all over this country and in this world we also have the opposite.

Here’s another couple questions that get asked:

What do we do about these bad things that happen?

How can we prevent them from happening?

Tough questions and the answers are not easy. Living in a free society there are consequences to this freedom. There is no way around it. What I do know is you cannot pass a law to prevent evil from carrying out evil. While laws, ordinances, and policies may guide behavior in the end evil will be evil.

Case in Point: Chicago.

While Chicago has some of the strictist gun control laws in the United States this city also has some of the highest murder and shooting rates.

It’s people. It’s culture.

It’s complicated.

Rourke

January 9, 2017
From the Desk of John Rourke – January 9th, 2017

The snow we were supposed to get never showed up. It went to the north of us. Maybe next time.

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Mentioned I had an old Casio G-Shock watch with a broken band. I found a band kit on eBay for around $14 and ordered it. Planning on getting a few more G-Shock’s or similar watches for kits – including one to EMP-proof.

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Watched Captain America: Civil War for the second time. Excellent movie and if you like action the entire Avengers/Captain America/Iron Man series is first rate. “Civil War” in particular is extremely relevant to current times. Why? The United Nations wish to have oversight and control over the Avengers due to their incredible power. See – it’s the same old “government always knows best”.

There is a split in the Avengers Team as to sign up or not. Conflict ensues – thus….Civil War.

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I’ve started my stippling project. Read around on gun forums and people have a love-hate relationship with stippling. After handling a pistol with custom stippled grip the purpose is clear = superior control and retention. Starting with some PMAG’s while I learn.

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Something for you…..Another example of why we need to put celebrities and their opinions in perspective. This guy – although a great actor – does not live in the same world as the rest of us……

January 8, 2017
Civilian Involvement: The Newhall Incident

Via Wikipedia……

The Newhall incident, also called the “Newhall massacre”, was a shootout between two heavily armed criminals and officers of the California Highway Patrol (CHP) in the Newhall unincorporated area of Los Angeles County, California on April 5, 1970. In less than 5 minutes, four CHP officers were killed in what was at the time the deadliest day in the history of California law enforcement.^[1]^[2]

At approximately 11:55 p.m. (UTC-8), CHP officers Walt Frago and Roger Gore conducted a traffic stop of Bobby Davis and Jack Twinning in conjunction with an incident involving the pair that had been reported to the CHP minutes earlier. After stopping in a restaurant parking lot and initially cooperating with the officers, Twinning and Davis opened fire and killed both officers. Minutes later, Officers George Alleyn and James Pence arrived on the scene and engaged Twinning and Davis in a shootout. A passerby picked up one of the officers’ weapons and opened fire on the perpetrators; however, the three were outgunned, and both Alleyn and Pence suffered fatal injuries while the passerby ran out of ammunition and took cover in a ditch. A third CHP patrol car arrived on the scene and the lone officer inside briefly exchanged gunfire with the perpetrators, but they were able to flee the scene.

Over three hours later, after stealing a vehicle and exchanging gunfire with its owner, Davis attempted to flee the area; however, he was spotted by police and arrested. Meanwhile, Twinning broke into a house and took one of its occupants hostage. The house was surrounded by deputies of the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department and at approximately 9 a.m., he released the hostage and committed suicide when the deputies entered the house. Davis was sentenced to death but had his sentence commuted to life imprisonment without the possibility of parole in 1973. He killed himself^[3] at Kern Valley State Prison in 2009.^[1]

The Newhall incident resulted in a number of changes at the CHP, including procedural changes in arresting high risk suspects and standardization of firearms and firearms training used across the department.^[1]^[2]

The above describes a horrible situation where good and evil battled and eventually good won out. What struck me when I first heard this story was the involvement of that sheepdog that picked up an officers weapon and stood up against evil. I have corrected a few people when they refer to police, EMS, fire department, etc. as “first responders”. No disrespect meant at all but quite often it is a civilian that is the first responder. What they decide to do – or not do – can make all difference. I’m likely just overly obsessed with the semantics of terminology.

So – how many of us would jump in in defense of those officers? Don’t answer – because I’m not sure most would really know until the situation occurred.

Rourke

January 8, 2017
From the Desk of John Rourke – January 6th, 2017

Tensions continue to build between the US and Russia. Hopefully things will cool down soon.

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I never carry or wear a watch. Primarily due to always having my phone with me. None of my kits/packs have a watch either. Need to correct this. I have an old Casio G-Shock with a broken strap around here somewhere.

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My area is supposed to get a few inches of snow tonight into Saturday. Needless to say people are freaking out over not much more than what would be called a dusting in some areas. Love me some snow. We rarely get any. Can’t wait.

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Pathetic the wave of actions the Obama administration is doing so close to the change in power. 4 dangerous detainees transferred from Gitmo. Special Forces sent overseas in response to Russian movements. Crazy. I am really curious to see the list of people that receive pardons on Obama’s way out.

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Jake the Beast!!!!

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Hope everyone has a great weekend!!

January 5, 2017