1776PatriotUSA.com

Blog

Best Disposable Gun?

Back in mid-November Commander Zero wrote up a post on his favorite “disposable” gun. The post makes a lot of sense. Commander Zero points out that it is common to find people spend tons of money on quality gear but then go ultra cheap – aka “disposable” – when it comes to caches and such. I agree and I used to think this way myself.

Realizing that any gun is better than no gun if one finds themselves desperate enough to need the items buried in a cache – I suspect having some pretty good stuff put back would be advantageous.

Commander Zero states his choice for a high value/quality disposable gun is the Ruger P95. I agree. Although he states around $200 can be spent on one I have never seen them going that low. My own choice is the Taurus G2 9mm. Yeah – the lowly low quality Taurus – that I’ve never had a problem with. Hey – my experience is not yours.

The G2 can be purchased commonly for $200 on sale at a local shop new. I carry one daily at the moment so there is no reason I wouldn’t use one in a cache. Are there better choices? Absolutely – including Commander Zero’s Ruger P95. Are there worse contenders? Many.

Rourke

January 5, 2017
From the Desk of John Rourke – January 5th, 2017

DrudgeReport.com has been recently under a cyber attack. Some belief it comes from our own government. Who knows? As I type this now Drudge is down and I assume from a DOS attack. I think the coming years will see a lot of cybercrime/cyberterrorism occurring – much of which we may not even hear about.

◊ ◊ ◊ ◊ ◊

Here is a sneak peak of my latest AR build…article likely next week:

◊ ◊ ◊ ◊ ◊

Appreciate everyone’s vote over at the Top 50 Prepper website. 1776PatriotUSA.com continues shooting up the list and the Top 50 is within sight. You can vote every day if you would like. Thanks!!

◊ ◊ ◊ ◊ ◊

Anyone out there have any experience with Etsy or Shopify shops? Looking for opinions from those who may have opened their own online stores.

◊ ◊ ◊ ◊ ◊

Something for you…..

January 4, 2017
Video: “A Time for Choosing” by Ronald Reagan

Amazing how relevant this video sounds today. Not a lot to say about the video – it stands for itself.

Well worth watching by every American Patriot:

January 4, 2017
From the Desk of John Rourke – January 4th, 2017

A few days and the 2017 Gold’s Challenge begins. This is a contest to see who can have the largest transformation in health and fitness. I truly believe I can compete regionally if I stick to my diet plan and workouts.

◊ ◊ ◊ ◊ ◊

Chicago records 762 killings in 2017 – up 57%. This in a strict gun control region. There are certainly issues in Chicago and it is not as simple as removing the gun control restrictions to fix everything. There is a culture of violence and crime in Chicago that will take years with the right leadership to improve.

◊ ◊ ◊ ◊ ◊

Alex Jones – who I have a love-hate relationship with – is now on the bandwagon that Obama is planning something to stop Trump from taking office. It’s these types of news stories and predictions that end up going unrealized that is frustrating. His followers seem to quickly forget as well.

◊ ◊ ◊ ◊ ◊

I’m really wanting to try out stippling. Stippling is generally the use of a soldering iron to burn small dimples/lines or some other pattern into polymer gun parts including grips and magazines. The reason for doing this is to improve the grip on these items. I have picked up a few custom stippled guns and was really impressed.

◊ ◊ ◊ ◊ ◊

Something for you……..image of the inside of my new gun cabinet.

January 3, 2017
From the Desk of John Rourke – January 3rd, 2017

17 days until Obama is out of office.

◊ ◊ ◊ ◊ ◊

I’ve started working on a post to remind people that there are lots of reasons to continue to prepared efforts – food storage, security, defense, gardening, bug out plans, fuel storage, bug in plans, etc. Well here’s one: Kim Jung Un in North Korea is prepping to test an ICBM in their continuing nuclear armament efforts.

Let’s remember North Korea has two satellites orbiting the planet and passes over the United States. What if they contain nuclear weapons?

◊ ◊ ◊ ◊ ◊

Last couple weeks been going through serious organization efforts. Still a ways to go. Way too much clutter and saving EVERYTHING. A lot of people do Spring Cleaning well guess we are doing Winter Cleaning. Old clothes heading to Goodwill or Salvation Army. Misc supplies have been placed into storage unit until retreat shed is complete. This is freeing up some serious space. Firearms and all things related to firearms getting a place. Purchased another metal gun cabinet – a Stack On 10 gun. Will get an actual safe at some point.

Making headway is better than going backwards.

◊ ◊ ◊ ◊ ◊

Added my 2017 Goals & Objects to the Projects page.

◊ ◊ ◊ ◊ ◊

Something for you……

January 2, 2017
From the Desk of John Rourke – January 2nd, 2017

Well – here we go. I wonder a year from now what we’ll reflect back on and remember.

◊ ◊ ◊ ◊ ◊

Looking at online gun retailers I see Para Ordnance 1911’s available fairly cheap. I had contacts with employee’s who worked in Para’s Pineville, NC plant who said things much improved at the company when Remington bought them out. The plant shut down a couple years ago when Remington consolidated operations in Alabama.

I’ve always questions the quality of Para but have no first hand experience with them. Several models are available online for $599.

◊ ◊ ◊ ◊ ◊

I cannot fathom what it must be like to live in Israel. Surrounded by the enemy – people who want you dead. It must be extremely disappointing the stance the Obama administration and the UN have taken recently.

◊ ◊ ◊ ◊ ◊

The magazine Ballistic is pretty good. I haven’t bought every issue but the photography is fantastic and some very good content.

◊ ◊ ◊ ◊ ◊

Something for you…..

January 1, 2017
Preparedness and Drones

Military use of drones and surveillance have exploded in popularity over the past decade. The reasons are obvious. Unmanned drones – being unmanned – help save American lives. The perspective of several hundred feet to a few thousand feet certainly provides insight as to what is going on in the area. The fact that unmanned drones can also be weaponized makes military drones a major combat multiplier in our Armed Forces.

Drones are not only for the military. The quality of civilian drones is constantly going up while pricing has been fairly steady or even trending downward slightly. A great example of a civilian drone with real uses for the prepper is the Phantom 3 Standard. Running under $400 on sale the Phantom 3 Standard provide exception ease of flight and real-time camera viewing. Of course it also records during flight and the camera’s angles can be adjusted during flight.

A friend of mine recently purchased a Phantom 3 Standard and has shared his flight video’s with me. Impressive! I wanted to post one here however file size was rather large so check out the video below. It provides a good overview of the capabilities of a $500 drone. Remember – all the footage can be seen by the pilot in real-time.

Consider the benefit of using such a drone – or multiple drones – for retreat security and area surveillance. There are many benefits of including these drones in preparedness plans and strategy. Expensive? Fairly, however there are those that will blow $1500 on an AR – and scoff at spending $400 on a drone. For some it would be a valuable tool while others not.

I believe in short order I’ll have a Phantom 3 Standard on a bench in my garage. Besides preparedness – these things are FUN!!

Rourke

* * * * * * * * * * *

Need clean water?

January 1, 2017
Happy New Year!!!!!

Happy New Year everyone!!!

I hope 2017 proves to be full of success, happiness, and peace.

Good luck everyone.

Rourke

December 31, 2016
Q & A Day……America, Liberty, Patriotism….and Freedom

Ask a question and I will give you an answer. It can be about pretty much anything – politics, firearms, current events, survival, preparedness, or “Why isn’t there mouse-flavored cat food? “ – whatever.

Go ahead – “make my day.”

JR

* * * * * * * * * * *

From the Supply Depot: RECOMMENDED MOVIES

Hanna

John Wick (extreme violence and language)

Shooter

I Am Legend

Shutter Island – excellent!

* * * * * * * * * * *

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.

December 29, 2016
From the Desk of John Rourke – 2017 Goals & Objectives

What follows is my 2017 Goals & Objectives. Most all of these are related to preparedness in some way including personal health and financial stuff. The format is borrowed heavily from Ryan over at TotalSurvivalist.com. He’s been doing the “New Years Resolution” thing for a number of years.

He we go…….

Guns, Ammo, and Related Skills:

Training – Max Velocity Tactical – Combat Rifle Skills – looking at attending this class or something similar. Currently this class is being held in WV towards end of April. Anyone want to join me?

Training – Hit the range at least once per month

Supplies – Reach the following ammunition storage levels:

.223/5.56(10,000) 9mm(4,000) 45ACP(1,000) 7.62×39(1500)

Supplies – Reach the following magazine levels:

AR/M4(60 30-rd’s) XD9(6) 1911(15) PMR30(5) 92F(6 15-rds) AK(10 30-rds)

Preparedness Supplies/Projects:

Solar – complete solar refrigeration project

Complete electronic preparedness library

Improve tool supply and organize

Relocate most of the supplies to retreat

Place Operational Cache’s in two locations

Fuel – purchase 5 metal gas cans and fill

Complete bug out trailer

Purchase rechargeable batteries for all flashlights/radio’s

Skills:

Ham Radio – obtain licence

Financial:

Add 24 ounces of silver via Silver Eagles

Take advantage of silver prices should they drop below $14/ounce

Add $2000 to Emergency Fund

Health:

Enter Gold’s Gym 12-week Challenge and compete locally.

Drop weight down to at least 185 pounds.

Life:

Take family hiking on local mountain.

Take advantage of local river and kayak frequently.

Mountain bike local trails starting in Spring.

Get back in the church.

This is a work in progress and will be added to the Projects section of this site and edited as needed. In 2016 I made a lot of progress as far as preparedness is concerned.

Feel free to share your own Goals & Objectives.

Here’s to 2017! Let it be a great one!

Rourke

December 28, 2016
DO NOT dry fire practice…..EVER!!!
This may come as a surprise that someone would actually suggest NOT to dry fire practice. After all it is a widely used technique to improve shooting skills and save money. I was not always of the belief that dry firing was a safety issue. Panhandle Rancher convinced me otherwise. While I’m not going to get into the level of detail he provided me as to the explanation against dry firing – I’ll mention a couple things:
1. A kid is found dead left in car while their parents work all day,
2. Unintended discharges
Every year you hear about a father who normally doesn’t take their kid to day care forgetting to drop them off. They drive to work as normal and the kid bakes in the sun all day while dad is inside working. So sad.

Every year there are many unintended shots fired in living rooms, ranges, and many other places. Every single time a finger is placed on the trigger – with a found in the chamber.

Here’s the deal – we humans are creatures of habit. When you pick up a firearm in the house and dry fire practice you’re pulling the trigger over and over again. A habit is being developed that pulling the trigger without the gun going off is OK – and normal. It is just a matter of time before it goes BANG – unintentionally. If you had a rule that you NEVER pull the trigger unless aiming at a target or conducting a live fire exercise the complacency that dry fire practice developed will be much less.

That father drives to work day after day, week after week – never having to drop the child off at the day care. It’s a habit that is embedded in him. One day his routine is disrupted and the wife places junior in the back seat. He pulls out and soon thereafter he is back in his routine. The thought of his son in the backseat never enters his mind.

We can say it would never happen to us. We can say that 10,000 dry fire trigger pulls year after year will not increase the chance of an unintentional discharge. We can say that with all those dry fire shots pulling out a concealed carry gun – with a round in the chamber – that there is no possibility that habit will come into play and the trigger pulled at some point. I will say that is just not logical.

I say keep your finger off the trigger until aiming at something you are willing to destroy.

Stay safe my friends.

Rourke

From the Supply Depot: RECOMMENDED SUPPLIES

GorillaDrive 64gb USB Rugged Drive

Ultrafire Mini Cree LED Flashlight with Rechargeable Batteries / Charger

Streamlight CR123 Batteries/12-Pack

Koolatron 12V Portable Cooler

Gerber Warrant Fixed Blade Knife

* * * * * * * * * * *

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.

* * * * * * * * * * *

Recommended reading for every Patriot?
December 28, 2016
From the Desk of John Rourke – December 28th, 2016

As a huge Star Wars fan the death of Carrie Fisher is terrible news.

◊ ◊ ◊ ◊ ◊

I have ceased the Jericho posts. The last couple only had a few people actually read them. If people have watched through episode 18 they pretty much get the gist of the show already. In retrospect I should have probably stuck with the first 10 or 12 episodes.

◊ ◊ ◊ ◊ ◊

The Federal National Debt is fast approaching $20 trillion dollars. Although people are feeling very positive about the next Administration I do not foresee the debt clock going backwards anytime soon – thus the economic implications resulting still await us.

◊ ◊ ◊ ◊ ◊

In my younger days I enjoyed riding motorcycles. I owned an 83′ Honda Sabre 750 – although one of my favorite bikes was the Honda Hawk GT650. It was truly ahead of its time with a single-sided swing arm.

◊ ◊ ◊ ◊ ◊

Here’s the latest of Jake and I………

◊ ◊ ◊ ◊ ◊

Just got word from GearBest.com of a huge flashlight and electronics sale going on now through January 6th.

There is a boatload of flashlights and LED lights on sale and several discounts on different manufacturers such as JetBEAM and Klarus. Check it out.

December 27, 2016
Review: Klarus Mi7 Mini Flashlight

I received the Klarus Mi7 LED flashlight several weeks ago and have been using it ever since. Whether it’s been searching under couches for my son’s car keys, heading to the tree stand, or navigating my way to the shed to look for Christmas ornaments it has been my faithful companion.

The Klarus Mi7 is a AA/14500 powered LED flashlight that falls right into the “mini” flashlight category. Although small this is a feature packed and extremely powerful flashlight.

Here are some specs:

Brand: KLARUS
Model: Mi7
Lamp Beads: Cree XP-L HI V3
Emitters Quantity: 1
Lumens Range: 500-1000Lumens
Luminous Flux: 700LM
Luminous Intensity: 3025cd
Power: 4W
Color Temperature: 6500K
Feature: Cooling Slot of High Efficiency,Lightweight,Lock-out Function,Power Indicator,Reverse Polarity Protection,Tail Stand
Function: Camping,EDC,Hiking,Household Use,Night Riding,Walking
Switch Type: Side Clicky
Mode: 5 (High – Low – Moonlight – Strobe – SOS)
Battery Type: 14500,AA
Battery Quantity: 1 x AA / 14500 battery (AA included)
Waterproof Standard: IPX-8 Standard Waterproof (Underwater 2m)
LED Lifespan: 50000h
Power Source: Battery
Working Voltage: 1-4.2V
Reflector: Aluminum Textured Orange Peel Reflector
Lens: Toughened Ultra-clear Mineral Glass Lens
Beam Distance: 100-150m
Impact Resistance: 1M
Body Material: AL 6061-T6 Aluminium Alloy
Available Light Color: Cool White
Available color: Army green,Black,Blue,Green,Pink,Red,Silver

Included in Packaging:

Nice and professional packaging includes the Klarus Mi7 flashlight, AA alkaline battery, 1 extra o-ring, 1 carabiner. Mine came with a pocket clip although that is not listed on the website as an included item.

Ergonomics and Build:

The Mi7 is a small flashlight intended for everyday carry in the pocket, glove box, or pack. There is a diamond-cut pattern on the main body that feels fine. I would have preferred some aggressive knurling but that is just my personal preference.

Construction is excellent. All surfaces are smooth with no machining marks or unfinished edges. Threads are tight and smooth.

The power button works as intended though it does feel a bit “squishy”. I have had a few instances while carrying in my front pocket where the light was inadvertently turned on. I knew due to the light heating up and I could feel it. Using the included carabiner on a belt loop would solve that however i preferred pocket carry.

[slideshow_deploy id=’4470′]

Power Source:

The Klarus Mi7 can be powered by either a standard AA battery or a 14500 lithium ion. The difference between the two is critical for maximum performance out of this light. A typical AA battery put out 1.5 volts while the 14500 – up the power to 3.6-3.7 volts. Knowing this it is not surprising to get maximum performance(brightness) it is best to use the rechargeable lithium ion 14500 battery.

Performance:

Before I get into the performance of this mini flashlight let’s get some perspective. The classic Maglite powered by 2 D cells that has rode in many trucks, police cars, and so many of us cherished for years threw a grand total of………27 lumens. Yes – 27. Remember this.

The following are the estimated output levels based on battery type:

AA Alkaline:

HIGH – 330 lumens / LOW – 90 lumens

14500 Lithium Ion:

HIGH – 700 lumens / LOW – 90 lumens

That is 700 lumens from a mini flashlight. Flashlight technology has come so far.

Modes:

Like most modern flashlights the Klarus Mi7 has more modes of operation than needed. Anyone who is familiar with my flashlight reviews knows I like ON and OFF – and maybe a couple brightness levels.

Available modes:

HIGH

LOW

Moonlight(5 lumen)

Strobe – HIGH

Strobe – LOW

A Picture Is Worth a Thousand Words……..

* * * * * * * *

Above: No flashlight – just ambient light and obvious porch/street lights

Below: AA alkaline on HIGH

Above: Klarus Mi7 with 14500 battery on HIGH – impressive 700 lumens

Below: Beside my house – no flashlight

Above: 700 lumens from 14500 lithium ion battery in the Klarus

See below a video I made while outside:

Summary:

The Klarus Mi7 is an excellent EDC flashlight and perfect for the pack. The ability to use normal AA alkaline is a big plus however to get maximum performance 14500 batteries can be purchased inexpensively. The ability to throw 700 lumens in such a small and capable flashlight is something unavailable just a couple years ago.

Recommended.

Interested in purchasing the Klarus Mi7 Mini LED Flashlight? – follow THIS LINK and use Coupon: TL7CM . Not sure how long this discount code will be good for but I am going to order another myself.

December 27, 2016
From the Desk of John Rourke – December 27th, 2016

Christmas dinner my youngest heard someone on TV say “Merry Christmas”. He then said that he thought it was against the law to say Merry Christmas on television. My wife and I asked him where in the world he got that from and he wasn’t sure. I know where that came from. It came from the supposedly all understanding, compassionate, and fair-minded left-wing Liberals.

Insanity.

◊ ◊ ◊ ◊ ◊

2017 Goals & Objectives list is well underway. Will be sharing later this week. If anyone else would like to share their own list feel free.

◊ ◊ ◊ ◊ ◊

Picked two new EDC bags – both made by Condor. These are not survival kits or get home bags rather more utility or incidental pouches. Well – the larger bag could work as a small get home bag. I’ve just started putting them together and one is pretty small I am envisioning having the larger bag as one of those “jack of all trade” bags that contain a wide assortment of items to assist in all kinds of situations.

Here are the two bags – the Condor T & T Pouch and the Condor E & E Bag.

◊ ◊ ◊ ◊ ◊

Silver has dropped under $16 per ounce. I see it continuing to go down and possibly get in the $13 range.

◊ ◊ ◊ ◊ ◊

Something for you……

December 26, 2016
From the Desk of John Rourke – December 26th, 2016

Hope everyone had a fantastic Christmas. Ours was great!

◊ ◊ ◊ ◊ ◊

Putin sends a message to the Democratic party –

“Democrats are losing on every front and looking for people to blame everywhere,” he said. “They need to learn to lose with dignity.

“The Democratic Party lost not only the presidential elections, but elections in the Senate and Congress. .…Is that also my work?” he said.

He went on to ridicule Democrats for never-say-die efforts to overturn the Nov. 8 presidential election, first by calling for recounts, then trying to get electors to flip.

“The fact that the current ruling party called Democratic has blatantly forgotten the original definition of its name is evident if one takes into consideration unscrupulous use of administrative resource and appeals to electors not to concede to voters’ choice,” Putin said, according to the Russian news agency Tass.

◊ ◊ ◊ ◊ ◊

One of my favorite books is EMP: Equipping Modern Patriots. Author Jonathan Hollerman and his wife just came out with a unique new prepper fiction piece – Alone: Beth Ann’s Story of Survival. It is unique in that it is a story with a women as the main character.

So you think you’re afraid of the dark? Twenty-two-year-old Beth Ann is content with her small-town life. That is, until the day America’s electric grid is destroyed by terrorists. What starts out as an inconvenience quickly becomes a catastrophe—not only do the lights stay off, but cars won’t run and phones are dead. The world screeches to a halt. Without communication and basic supplies like food and water, widespread confusion spirals into deadly chaos within days.

A wealthy opportunist saves the townspeople with his secret cache of food and easily takes control of the desperate town. But the darkness that follows is even more devastating than the electrical outage. When Beth Ann finds herself on her own, she must do whatever it takes to survive. Alone is a companion novel to the best-selling Equipping Modern Patriots Series, written in coordination with Survival Expert and Preparedness Consultant, Jonathan Hollerman.

◊ ◊ ◊ ◊ ◊

Three teenagers from my town have been arrested. They planned to hold up a gun shop – then rob and murder someone they had a beef with. My son knows all three kids. I know several kids that my son grew up with and I even coached them in Small Fry football who have gotten in serious trouble. What is the world coming to? How could these kids think they could pull off such a crime spree?

Crazy.

◊ ◊ ◊ ◊ ◊

On a lighter note…..

December 25, 2016
Merry Christmas

Hope everyone has a safe and very Merry Christmas….

Rourke

December 24, 2016
From the Desk of John Rourke – December 23rd, 2016

Two more days to go.

◊ ◊ ◊ ◊ ◊

Christmas shopping is almost complete and I actually have most wrapped up. This is unprecedented. Usually the night before Christmas the wife and I are up late wrapping everything.

◊ ◊ ◊ ◊ ◊

Whatever happened to “sticks and stones may break my bones but words will never hurt me”? Now it seems like it’s all about words. The over sensitivity is ridiculous with so many. With much of society EVERYTHING is acceptable as long as it fits within their agenda and belief system and if you suggest something outside of that – well, it’s NOT acceptable and your labeled as a bigot, racist, sexist – whatever.

There are literally schools banning the use of the terms “boys” and “girls”. It’s insane. Some cupcake came up with the theory that students could be negatively impacted and suffer mental anxiety by hearing the terms related to gender.

Holy crap.

◊ ◊ ◊ ◊ ◊

Favorite pizza: Meat Lovers

◊ ◊ ◊ ◊ ◊

Over the next week will be working on several articles related to EDC, concealed carry recommendations, equipment reviews, etc.

Anything specific you’d like to hear about?

◊ ◊ ◊ ◊ ◊

I’ve always wanted one of those Rambo First Blood knives. There’s a couple different versions out available. I realize these are mostly for show and that’s fine. Iconic movie that started the whole survival knife phenomenon. May pick one up some day.

◊ ◊ ◊ ◊ ◊

Something for you…..

December 23, 2016
From the Desk of John Rourke – December 22nd, 2016

Over on my Instagram page a lively discussion about the Electoral College versus popular vote has been going on all day. I used to be a believer in using the popular vote – until I understood what could result. Although there is a lot of misinformation regarding how many counties Trump won versus Hillary – the numbers do not lie:

Trump: 2,623 Hillary: 489

When you dig down into the numbers deeper it is truly telling. Remove the top 100 most populated counties and Trump won the EC by an even larger margin AND the popular vote by close to 15 million votes. We already know the pundits and pollsters didn’t have it close – but it is really “worse” then they thought.

The following picture is the exact reason why we have the Electoral College. Blue – Hillary counties Red – Trump

Does the above map look like Hillary won the election?

◊ ◊ ◊ ◊ ◊

I did a lot of my Christmas shopping online this year and so far extremely pleased. Shipping was fast with tracking all the way. One item had to be sent back and this was not an issue. Amazon was used for most things and as always they do a great job. I also have been shopping on eBay recently and found some decent deals.

◊ ◊ ◊ ◊ ◊

My knife collection has been expanding more lately. This all started when Chris(13 year old) decided he wanted to be a “country boy” – which is fine by me. He started collecting himself especially after Panhandle Rancher gave him one. I am eyeing a Tops Pathfinder Knife right now. Looks awesome but really would like to see one up close before I shell out the money. Although – the knives I have bought from GearBest have been great.

See:

CIMA Knife Table Top Review

REVIEW: HX Outdoors Survival Knife

Of the two the CIMA is my favorite.

◊ ◊ ◊ ◊ ◊

3 days to go!!!!!

December 21, 2016
Video: ATN X-Sight Day/Night Riflescope

The following video showcases the ATN X-Sight Day/Night Vision Optic. The X-Sight is a high tech digital optic that is capable of shooting(and recording) both at night – and during the day. I own this optic and am very impressed with its capabilities. The X-Sight runs between $550-$680 depending on exact model and where purchased.

I’ll be doing my own review once a dedicated firearm for the X-Sight is purchased. Until then this video provides some good info:

December 21, 2016
From the Desk of John Rourke – December 21st, 2016

4 more days……

◊ ◊ ◊ ◊ ◊

Appreciate everyone’s vote over at the Top 50 Prepper website. 1776PatriotUSA.com has been shooting up the list over the past couple weeks. You can vote every day if you would like. Thanks!!

◊ ◊ ◊ ◊ ◊

The terrorist attacks in Europe show the obvious incompatibility between Islam and modern civilized society. Call me Islamophobic? So be it. I fully realize that there are millions of peaceful Muslims living in the United States and the world. This doesn’t change my belief that Islam and it’s belief system is incompatible with modern civilized society.

Around the world women are shunned, shamed, stoned, mutilated, and killed. Fathers kill their daughters for not following beliefs from “the religion of peace”. Husbands remove the eyes of their wives and horribly burn them for suspicion of being unfaithful.

I’m sorry – but any belief system that supports this type of behavior must be shunned. Also in my opinion – Islam and Sharia law is not a religion – it is in fact an economic construct.

Europe is suffering for the poor decision of their Liberal leaders far too accepting and accommodating for allowing millions of Muslim refugees into their countries.

◊ ◊ ◊ ◊ ◊

Love this picture………

December 20, 2016
Jericho Episode 18 – AKA

Here is the eighteenth of a weekly installment discussing an episode of the popular TV series – Jericho – which aired originally back in 2006. Every Tuesday night we are watching an episode and then will discuss what happens the following day. It can be watched free on Netflix or purchased on VUDU. Jericho is also available on DVD.

Summary:

Hawkins can no longer keep his secret as suspicions mount. Things almost come to blows when Jake and Jimmy break into Hawkins house and discover evidence in the basement. Jake interrogates Hawkins and and the “beans are spilled”.

Discussion:

This was really more of an entertaining episode than one packed full of preparedness lessons and tips. Good episode though. A lot of things came together.

Rourke

Don’t forget to vote for this website over at the Top Prepper Sites. Click HERE to vote.

* * * * * * * * * * *

December 20, 2016
From the Desk of John Rourke – December 20th, 2016

Still working on my New Year Resolutions/2017 Goals and Objectives – take your pick on terminology. Considering not just the next year but the next 10 years. Can’t explain it but life is at a pivotal point. Maybe it is my age – not sure. Regardless putting more effort in this year than the last few.

◊ ◊ ◊ ◊ ◊

Reader DH mentioned he is considering taking a Max Velocity firearms training course next year. Approx 6 hours away it is not out of the question for me to attend as well. I a overdue for more training.

◊ ◊ ◊ ◊ ◊

Went and saw the new Star Wars movie – Rogue One. Pretty good. Not fantastic but pretty good.

◊ ◊ ◊ ◊ ◊

A major goal of 2017 is to increase my wife and I’s secondary sources of income. I am expanding on some eBay sales and she sells a variety of etched glass and custom t-shirt products. She is looking at custom embroidery as well.

◊ ◊ ◊ ◊ ◊

It’s not uncommon to see video’s on Facebook and Instagram of video’s where someone uses a gun in self defense. Almost every single one of these are from other countries. Here’s the deal – in almost all of these the person defending themselves pulls a gun – the person runs away and then the “victim” starts shooting. In most situations in the US the shooter would be charged.

When the threat is not longer present the gun owner cannot just shoot the person. Reading he comments everyone will be bragging about how they would do the same.

Using a gun in self defense is no joke.

◊ ◊ ◊ ◊ ◊

The EC voted overwhelmingly for Trump to be President. These snowflakes losing their minds over it and having emotional breakdowns need to go find some coloring books, play with some play dough, hug a teddy bear – and wear a safety pin. Holy crap!

December 20, 2016
From the Desk of John Rourke – December 19th, 2016

Interesting the attention that the “DNC email leak/hacking” situation is getting right now. Four years ago when Romney suggested that Russia was the biggest threat t the United States he was labeled ridiculous and “old school” by Obama and the mainstream media. Now those very same people are all over Russia for hacking the DNC – even though Julian Assange has stated Russia was not responsible.

To a certain degree it really doesn’t matter where Wikileaks received their information. It has been proven that the DNC is corrupt and election was completely rigged. Hillary was selected early on and it didn’t matter what Bernie Sanders did she was going to get the nomination. Beyond that evidence was massive that Hillary was chosen to be elected President by the “powers that be”. The uniqueness of Trumps message managed to pull him out the win – even though he managed to best Romney’s totals in 2012 by a couple million votes.

Here is some truth for you…..

◊ ◊ ◊ ◊ ◊

Huge Star Wars fan when I was a kid. A fanatic really. Going to See Rogue One Tuesday night.

◊ ◊ ◊ ◊ ◊

Went from the 20’s to about 70 degrees in my area within a little over 24 hours. Crazy. Frigid temps all over the country though. Check out a live temperature map HERE.

◊ ◊ ◊ ◊ ◊

Christmas shopping is way past done. Spent a ridiculous amount of money this year.

◊ ◊ ◊ ◊ ◊

Something for you…..

December 18, 2016
The BMF Activator

Upon my recent reflection of the 80’s survivalist movement I scoured my memories for all the different firearms and survival equipment available at the time and remembered a unique device – the BMF Activator. From my recollection it was primarily intended for .22lr semi-auto’s – especially the Ruger 10/22. Attached to the trigger guard each rotation of the crank would cause the gun to fire four times. This essentially provided a feeling similar to that of firing a fully automatic firearm.

I had figured the BMF was nothing but a relic from the past but this is not the case. It is in fact still available at least from a few dealers.

Here is a demonstration video:

Looks fun, huh?

I’ve watched a lot of video’s on YouTube which display some serious safety issues as people fire from the hip and who knows where the rounds are going. Regardless – there could be some applications where the BMF Activator could be a combat multiplier.

Might pick one up and try it out. At a minimum it’ll be fun.

Rourke

December 18, 2016
Prep’s This Week

Not a whole lot done this past week. Worked on the storage shed at the retreat. That will be great once complete. Worked on my latest AR build which is almost complete and will share soon. Attended another ham radio class. I also continued my reading of A Haunt for Jackals: Seven Cows, Ugly and Gaunt Book 3. Excellent series. I highly recommend it. Received three 1-ounce silver rounds from my subscription with Montana Rarities.

Managed to pick up a couple new firearms – a Mossberg 930 Blackwater in mint condition and another S&W M&P15-22. Both came from a close friend and both were great deals.

Looking forward to getting some time off around Christmas and New Years. Need to relax.

Although not many tangible assets(other than the guns) were acquired planning for 2017 was continued.

OK – how about you?

What prepping have you done over the last week?

Rourke

December 16, 2016
From the Desk of John Rourke – December 16th, 2016

Been taking my practice test for ham license over and over again. Still not passing. If I can’t improve pretty quick will delay taking the exam until February. Sooner or later – it’ll get done.

◊ ◊ ◊ ◊ ◊

Anytime I need motivation – for just about anything – I watch Rocky movies.

◊ ◊ ◊ ◊ ◊

Silver prices are dropping. Great buying opportunity.

◊ ◊ ◊ ◊ ◊

Don’t forget to vote for this website over at the Top Prepper Sites. Click HERE to vote.

◊ ◊ ◊ ◊ ◊

So – what’s really at Area 51? I’m thinking the Colonel’s Secret Recipe from KFC. Maybe.

◊ ◊ ◊ ◊ ◊

Nationwide internet. Free college. Solar power for every home. All these are big government ideas that we all know will end in failure and cost WAY more than estimated. Too bad as each could provide serious benefits to the country. It’s possible – just not probable to get it done efficiently and effectively.

December 15, 2016
Video: The Beretta CX4 Storm 9mm Carbine

One of many firearms on my wishlist is the Beretta CX4 Storm. Available in a few different calibers my preference would be 9mm. I just left my LGS and handled one of these unique weapons. It is extremely compact and felt very lightweight.

Hoping to get a new gun cabinet for Christmas which I will have no choice but to fill up. The Beretta CX4 Storm is a viable candidate.

Check out this video……

December 15, 2016
From the Desk of John Rourke – December 15th, 2016

When considering firearms for survival & preparedness – and the American Reformation – the shotgun is not often highly rated. Maybe they are just not as exciting as the latest AR/Glock/1911. One thing they are is incredibly versatile. Slugs can reach out and say “Hi!” or bust through a barrier and provide an introduction. Buckshot can send a devastating barrage of multiple projectiles downrange with a forgiving margin of accuracy. Birdshot can take small game……and so on.

◊ ◊ ◊ ◊ ◊

GearBest.com is having a couple special sales going on:

The first is a Buy One – Get One Free sale. Some interesting stuff. It’s basically buy one item and get a paired different item free.

The second is an 8% discount on all LED lights & flashlights. Products already discounted are not included. Use coupon code: GBLED2016

Both are for a limited time.

◊ ◊ ◊ ◊ ◊

Sean Connery – best Bond ever!

◊ ◊ ◊ ◊ ◊

It is becoming obvious that we live in a very different world with threats that just a few decades ago could not have been imagined. Cyberwarfare is a serious matter that is not often considered. With the United States importing so much of its technology – including military and infrastructure – embedded malware and viruses could exist at this very moment and we don’t even know it.

December 14, 2016
Introducing the Zanflare F1 LED Flashlight

The Zanflare F1 is Gearbest’s entry into the flashlight market. I have been testing the F1 for the last several weeks and wrapping things up now. So far – this is one of my favorite flashlights. Initial impressions are very positive. The size is what I would call small-to-medium. Control’s are super easy and 1000+ lumens provides plenty of illumination.

The Zanflare F1 comes with a variety of accessories including a clip, USB cable, carry case/holster, lanyard, extra o-rings, and a manual. It has 4 levels of illumination and the always present SOS and strobe function(which I never use). Throw in a rechargeable 18650 lithium-ion battery and recharge anytime via a hidden micro-USB port and included cable. More common CR123 batteries will also work.

My flashlight fetish continues to be fed with lights like the Zanflare. I definitely see me purchasing a couple more in the near future. Full review coming soon.

Here are a few pictures I “borrowed” from GearBest.com. Check out the special coupon code down below:

Light them zombies up!!!!! Click HERE for more information

ZanFlare F1 LED Flashlight – 6000-6500K: http://shrsl.com/?fhdn

Coupon: F1GB Price: $34.99

Rourke

December 14, 2016
From the Desk of John Rourke – December 14th, 2016

So – I hear that saying “Merry Christmas” is becoming much more acceptable. “Happy Holidays” just doesn’t cut it.

◊ ◊ ◊ ◊ ◊

Speaking of Christmas I have already watched Christmas Vacation about 5 times in the past week or so.

◊ ◊ ◊ ◊ ◊

Just watched the movie Snowden.

Many consider him a traitor – for good reason. I for one am glad the American public was made aware of the extent the government has infiltrated our lives – without due process. Movie was very well done.

◊ ◊ ◊ ◊ ◊

Amazon has the KindleFire 7″ tablet on sale for $39.99. Heck of a deal. I love mine and with the capability of accepting mini-SD cards they work great for building a preparedness library. An incredible value.

◊ ◊ ◊ ◊ ◊

I wonder how the human race would react if an alien force approached the Earth and attacked it. Would we suddenly find our differences meaningless and come together – or continue the petty game playing to our demise?

December 13, 2016