Friday, February 25, 2011

Smith & Wesson Bodyguard 380

Phil reviews and praises the 380 at the Guns for Sale Blog.

And another favorable review at the Survivalist Blog.

My neighbor has one and he says the double-action is hard for him to shoot. I've not shot it yet, so my comments are superficial at the moment. First, it is a tiny gun. The ergonomics weren't bad when I was playing around with the safety, mag release, etc. Both reviews mentioned that the laser was not worth much in bright light. I noticed the sights were plain, black. I'd rather see them with some nice dots - perhaps something that glows in the dark as a backup to the laser, too. Definitely on my list of things I'd like to try as I look to upgrade my Kel-Tec PF-9.

Software Agreements

I feel like this sometimes, too. I especially hate dealing with the giant companies like Oracle. You can play by their rules or go home.

Dilbert.com

Thursday, February 24, 2011

I killed Myspace!

From Brick O'Lore
Okay, so not really, but it is dying.

Time to Hunt and The 47th Samurai

Well, I ended up reading, not one, but both of the other Stephen Hunter books about Bob Lee Swagger.

First up is a Time to Hunt which is really several stories in one. It tells the story of Donny, Bob Lee's partner, and how he ended up as part of the sniper team. It also describes the events surrounding Bob Lee and Donny's heroics in Vietnam. For me, the intertwined stories worked a lot better than in the previous novel. Conspiracy theory lovers will enjoy this one. It is my favorite book in the series so far.

The 47th Samurai moves Bob's Excellent Adventure to Japan as he stumbles into trouble (surprise!) as he is pulled into his father's past. A samurai sword that Earl brought home turns out to be much more important to than he ever suspected. (And I have no idea why Bob's wife puts up with him.) To be honest, it was more of the same with some Asian seasoning. I liked it and it was an easy read, but I might let other books jump ahead of it in the queue. My lack of excitement may be partially due to some Bob Lee overload. I typically enjoy reading a series of books, so that I can follow a character in depth, but it might be too much of a good thing in this instance.

Time to HuntThe 47th Samurai (Bob Lee Swagger Novels)

Wednesday, February 23, 2011

Passionate Purchases

"People buy guns in a moment of passion," Verge said. "I think if you're going to kill someone, you'd better make sure you take the time and make sure you're prepared to take someone's life."
She is absolutely right. Just take a look at this video and see proof that is the way it happens!



"Five Days?!? But I'm mad now."
I don't think people buy guns in a fit of passion or even rage. Going to buy a gun involves time and some measure of planning - perhaps it could be called premeditation. Now, I've seen guys make impulse buys, but that's not the same.

Verge quote from Santa Monica Daily Press via The View from North Central Idaho

New Bills Proposed to Enhance Gun Rights

New proposals in Tennessee would allow permit holders to be exempt from background checks and the second paves the way for employees to have weapons on company property.

SB 0306
I don't buy a lot of guns, but it would be nice to skip the fee and paperwork. I don't know that this would aid in the privacy front, but it shouldn't hurt.

SB 0519
I'm ready for some legislation that protects my rights to carry any where. It makes my head spin that people thing little signs will keep the bad guys from bringing guns into a building.

Skype Illegal in France

So France may declare that Skype is illegal, because it isn't a registered telecom. Since it isn't registered, they aren't paying taxes. Taxes which support things like phone books and payphone booths. (I've added those last links for my younger readers that may not be familiar with antiques from the early days of telephony.) Nothing like disruptive technology to mess with tax codes and morals! For technology is no longer disruptive once people have figured out how to regulate and tax it.

Keeping an eye out for a Walther PPS

When I'm out and about in Knox Vegas, I'll have to keep an eye out for someone open carrying a Walther PPS in an exotic stingray holster.

Tuesday, February 22, 2011

Amazon Prime adds On-Demand Streaming at No Extra Cost

If you already use Amazon Prime, this is a great deal. I am cheap, so I usually just order my stuff on the slow boat that is free. And, with my toddler running around, I don't watch as much TV as I once did. Amazon on Demand is available on your PC, Roku, TiVo, and others - but not the Wii.

For TNJeff

First, some information so he can start working on his General license.

And, an automated chicken coop door! Technology is amazing!