Security: not advancing at the speed of a freight train

by Borepatch in Borepatch on 2025-07-15T17:39:00Z

Well, the security of the freight train, that is:

When independent security researcher Neil Smith reported a vulnerability in a comms standard used by trains to the US government in 2012, he most likely didn't expect it would take until 2025 to sort the matter out, but here we are.

The US Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) issued CVE-2025-1727 (CVSS v3.1 8.1) last week, specifying the issue as one of weak authentication in the end-of-train to head-of-train linking protocol - allowing an attacker to input their own braking commands and stop the train in its tracks.

Now that's pretty bad, just by itself.  This could also cause derailment.  But this part is maddening:

With a simple exploit sitting out there in the open since 2012 (if Smith discovered it, someone else might too), it seems practically negligent that someone didn't take action, but as a 2016 story from the Boston Review explains, it's not a surprise.

The article tells the story of Smith's by then four-year tussle with the AAR upon first reporting the matter to the US Industrial Control Systems Cyber Emergency Response Team (ICS-CERT) after successfully recording telemetry data from a passing train using an SDR in 2012.

ICS-CERT went to AAR with Smith's concerns, hoping they would be open to further security testing, but that initial contact was as far as it went - and as far as the BR story was able to glimpse into the struggle.

As Smith explained on X, the Boston Review article led to some burnout on the matter until security researcher Eric Reuter gave a talk at DEFCON in 2018, presenting an independent discovery of the same issue. By 2024, ICS-CERT had restructured several times, and Smith decided to reach back out to see if they could reopen the issue.

According to Smith, AAR's infosec director saw it as a minor issue since the FRED protocol was end-of-life and slated for replacement, despite still being in use.

Translation: yeah, we sat on this for 12 years but it's all good, bro. 


All those people going on about "OMG Trump is going to gut Internet Security teams" should ask themselves just what the heck those teams have been up to for the last dozen years.

S&W Unveils Performance Center Bodyguard 2.0

by Daniel Y in The Firearm Blog on 2025-07-15T17:00:00Z

Smith & Wesson’s Bodyguard 2.0 series continues to expand. The Performance Center Bodyguard 2.0 Carry Comp adds  some finishing touches on this already-popular .380 ACP handgun. Keep reading for all the details.

Tuesday Yard Work

by Pawpaw in PawPaw's House on 2025-07-15T16:11:00Z

 It's supposed to rain on Thursday, but it has been over ten days since I mowed. My yard holds water, and the afternoon showers have the ground saturated in sports. I decided that today would be a good chance to roll the dice and see if I stick the mower.  I didn't.  Got the front mowed except for the front ditch.

Tomorrow we have a contractor coming in to replace the home AC unit. It's been limping along for a while, and it is 24 years old.  It's time for an upgrade.  We're getting a new inside furnace and outside AC unit.  The contractor told me that out present unit pulls 40 amps, and the new one should pull no more than 13 amps.  That should help the electric bill quite a bit.

We have a 3-ton unit now and I asked the guy if we needed to increase the tonnage.  He took a quick measure of the house and told me that 3-tons would cool and heat it just fine.

It's allpart of being a homeowner.  

We covered  a new weapon light from Harbor Freight that bore a strong resemblance to the TLR-1. It seems that Streamlight is aware of those similarities and has filed a lawsuit against Harbor Freight. But the specific claims in that lawsuit might surprise you.

Slow Going Ahead

by admin in The War on Guns on 2025-07-15T14:36:44Z

Going to Chi-Town, of all places, for a memorial service for my wife’s brother. Before I do, I have an article to finish and several hours of hot weather yard work to complete. Please hold off on email news tips since I won’t be able to get to them. If I can get to any … Continue reading "Slow Going Ahead"

The post Slow Going Ahead first appeared on The War on Guns.

The Guardians

by Unknown in Home on the Range on 2025-07-15T13:20:00Z


For Don and the crew at 
 Not only do they make the only decaf I'll drink (water-processed), but they also donate 30% of their profits to community First Responder and Veteran organizations. This chapter, from the International bestseller Small Town Roads, takes place after a tornado strikes the small community where the main character, police officer Rachel Raines, lives.

A Chapter From Small Town Roads - by LB Johnson - Gold Winner - Fiction (Religious Theme) Readers' Favorite International Book Award 

We don’t have to speak for our intentions to be read. Speech seems like a simple thing, a coordination of muscle and bone, nerves and tongue, something within us, just as the ability to control and guide both weapon and machine lay slumbering within the wrists and hands. We can stay silent, but the words are still there.

Man experiences things of great magnitude and cannot speak of them at all. An artist or craftsman creates something that was part of them, honed into art or machine. On completion, they say no words, they call no one, and they simply put down their tool or brush and stare at their vision, incarnate.


Veterans come home from battle empty of all words, bound together by only that identical experience which they can never forget and dare not speak of, lest by speaking of darkness, they are wrapped in its chains. First responders and law enforcement officers often relate as they too see so much death that never again, as long as they breathe, will they ever truly go to sleep alone.

Man experiences the mundane, the meaningless, tweeting and texting of it feverishly. It is as if, by doing so, inconsequential acts become more than the passing of time by the imminently bored. The words can uplift, but they can also sting like so many insects, their incessant noise, finally dimming to a hum.

We speak in different languages, and even when speaking the same language, we often don’t communicate, and when we do, we often don’t truly mean what we say. Promises can be nothing more than words and oaths, empty air, especially when election times near, wherein contests of fierce and empty oratory are somehow, retroactively, supposed to make us believe, any more than they can make us forget. 

We speak in the language of the past, chants unchanged in generations hanging in the air as God is placed into a golden cup, there underneath the eyes of angels. We speak in the language of silent prayer, calling upon God and our reserves, saying prayers without words, as we draw near our weapon as we enter what could be hell on earth. 

Words can support, they can heal. With gentle utterance after a nightmare in the still of the night, the soothing voice that smoothes the frayed edges of a day, with nothing more than the touch of supple prose. Words can injure, cutting like a knife, discharging like a spark of electricity; those words, from someone we love, marking us always with their wounding.

Words, a movement of lips and tongue that can cause laughter or pain; that can divide or conquer. Even in a nation where English is the official language, in parts of our country, there are whole neighborhoods where you won’t hear it spoken. 

Sometimes one doesn’t need to speak at all.

On any given day, tragedy and the earth collide, a flood, a tornado, or the plunging of a mighty machine into a peaceful neighborhood. The details differ, but the response is always the same. When disaster strikes, the land itself turns mute, and those that remain stand simply as silent instruments unable to make a sound. 
I didn’t fully understand that until the tornado came through our town last night, leveling several homes a mile or so north, leaving others, like mine and most of my neighbors, miraculously standing. We were lucky in that there were no deaths, the majority of the homes having basements and a good tornado warning system. But as we emerged from our basement, our house untouched but for a tree that had taken out the front porch, it was as if what I saw was a completely different town. 

Harry, my elderly friend from across the street, was on the sidewalk, Evelyn holding on to him, shaken but unhurt. Ezekiel and Miriam waved from down the block, his shop roof damaged but the structure intact. But just down from Harry’s home, Betty, the widow who lives there, stood in front of what remained of her house of 60 years. It was one set further back from the road than the others; the back portion of the house was completely missing its roof and some walls, leaving no photos of her failed dreams, not even a trace, where the wind rushed through those rooms. She cried silently, in the faded robe she fled in, as one of the neighbors came over and put her arms around her. Behind all of the homes across the street from us, there were so many trees downed, limbs flung through windows, shattering them as if they were thrown like a lance.


A young woman, her face growing older by the minute, stumbled from the walkout basement of the home that had sold when I moved in, a solitary figure, clutching only a stuffed animal, making a path towards what is known. Her brother, serving in the military, was allowing her to live there to care for the place while she attended a community college in a town not too far east of us. We beckoned her to come over to us, and though I am probably only ten years older than she, like Evelyn does with me, I hold her in a mother’s protective embrace. 

The older couple from the corner of the block lost a brand-new outbuilding they had painstakingly constructed behind their house. They could now only look at the work of their sweat and tears strewn about for miles by the force of nature, the wind thick and warm, like blood spilled, pooling around what little remained. A lone tree stood among so many that were downed, torn out by the roots, its nervous branches bent down as if hoping not to be noticed.

The first responders arrived, standing for just a moment, still and mute, hands unmoving beneath the invisible stain of what was, always, needless blood. For just a moment, they stopped, as if by whispered breath or the movement of disturbed air, what little remains would crumble.

They gathered, moving in and around, the firefighters, emergency medical personnel, and law enforcement officers, all wearing blue, black, and yellow. Such garments, solemnly worn, exchanged for once ordinary lives, worn as they shape something from chaos, coaxing that terrible blood wind to give up a sound, the forlorn echo of someone who might have survived beneath the carnage. I waved at an officer I worked with, seeing the relief in his eyes that I was unhurt, feeling like I should be doing something more to help. I realized that I was still in shock as I held my neighbor to me to comfort, as beneath my bathrobe, my precious child lay safe.

It’s surprising how much noise there was in the silence of hope, of grief, of disbelief. It was a sound that one could almost, but not quite, capture, receding like a dwindling song until there were only shadows and quiet. And then a small voice, “Can anyone help me?” low and faint as the Vespers of sleep. It came from a home that didn’t have a walkout basement, and a tree had gone through the sunroom. I had been there, and that would have blocked the basement stairs. Hopefully, the person is fine and can get out once the tree is moved.

Survivors and saviors moved without sound, sending a message as loudly to the heavens as if they were one voice. People were helped from the rubble, the injured assessed, the grief-stricken comforted as best as one could, if only by a touch that resonated straight to the heart, bypassing a brain that could not accept its fate. There were no Teleprompters, there were no cue cards, and there were no words for boundless grief and regret. There was no language for this, no word, no sound; it’s defiant and imminent life, holding on.


Quote of the Day This important judgment means that people must maintain their Second Amendment right to keep and bear arms when they cross California’s border. Just as people are free to speak or worship in states they don’t reside … Continue reading
Two new options will join the Konus Fiery thermal scope series. First in the new series is the flexible Fiery RF, a unique 3-in-1 thermal device (pictured above) and the Fiery R, a conventional-looking 30mm riflescope. For those not familiar with Konus, they market products ranging from riflescopes to spotting scopes and from electronic dot sights to binoculars and more.

w00t!

by Tam in View From The Porch on 2025-07-15T12:49:00Z

Hot, fresh sci-fi!

A new novella from Marko, set in the Frontlines universe, just dropped!

Supposedly there's some background information in there about the Lankies. Can't wait to find out.

.

Investigators learned the shooting happened about 1 a.m. Thursday. The release was unclear on the location, calling it as “800 North block of Shelburn.”

The release said, “Gehring was trespassing on private property and was told numerous times by the property owner to leave. A physical altercation occurred between the property owner and Gehring, resulting in Gehring being shot.”



More Here


The caller also told dispatch that the man had been shot after forcing his way inside the home.

Red Lake officers responded and arrived to find people performing CPR on the man.

Officers took over and requested Red Lake EMS.

The man was then pronounced dead on scene.

Red Lake is getting assistance from FBI and Minnesota BCA to investigate the incident and it remains an open investigation.



More Here


When first responders arrived, they said they found a woman who reported she and her husband had been there to purchase a truck off Facebook Marketplace. However, instead of buying the truck, her husband was shot. He was taken to a nearby hospital for treatment.

The investigation found that the husband had gotten into the truck but jumped out shortly after, covered in blood. Out of fear, the woman admitted that she fired several shots at the two suspects. She pointed Aaron out as one of the suspects, as he was still nearby.

When investigators made contact with the Melberts, they claimed to have only been caught in the crossfire. Clarence was taken to a nearby hospital for medical treatment while Aaron was taken into custody. 

 


More Here 


1300 Gone at the Dept of State.. needs to be more

by Midwest Chick in Midwest Chick's Place on 2025-07-15T10:30:00Z

Marco Rubio canned 1300 people at the Department of State. Judging from the information here, whoever else is left in the building needs to get their papers as well. Here’s some examples of how the adults masquerading as children react to people getting fired. And the most egregious: What this indicates is that there are […]
The Journal of the American Medical Association publishes all the physicians' untruths.

By Lee Williams SAF Investigative Journalism Project Special to Liberty Park Press Doctors are increasing their anti-gun fight against President Donald J. Trump’s pro-gun policies and ideas—taking it to heights never seen under Joe Biden—by publishing more fictional stories based on anti-gun sources than ever before, and the Journal of the American Medical Association, known […]

The post Doctors Increasing Their Fight Against the Second Amendment appeared first on Liberty Park Press.

Preparedness Notes for Tuesday — July 15, 2025

by James Wesley Rawles in SurvivalBlog.com on 2025-07-15T07:04:43Z

July 15, 1410: The Battle of Grunwald (a.k.a. First Battle of Tannenburg and Battle of Žalgiris) was fought. It was one of Medieval Europe’s largest battles during Poland-Lithuanian Teutonic War. Polish King Władysław Jagiełło and Lithuanian Grand Duke Vytautas defeated Teutonic Ulrich von Junginge. — On July 15th, 1888, the Bandai Volcano erupted on the Japanese island of Honshu killing hundreds and burying many nearby villages in ash. — SurvivalBlog Writing Contest Today we present another entry for Round 119 of the SurvivalBlog non-fiction writing contest. The prizes for this round include: First Prize: A Gunsite Academy Three Day Course …

The post Preparedness Notes for Tuesday — July 15, 2025 appeared first on SurvivalBlog.com.

How Do You Define an “Emergency Situation”?, by A.Y.

by SurvivalBlog Contributor in SurvivalBlog.com on 2025-07-15T07:03:01Z

An emergency, as Webster’s Dictionary defines it, is: “…an unforeseen combination of circumstances or the resulting state that calls for immediate action, or an urgent need for assistance or relief.”  Throughout our lifetimes we may see many types of emergencies not just the Schumer Hits The Fan (SHTF) types of emergencies such as nuclear war or economic collapse that we should be prepared for. I have found that in my life choosing the prepper lifestyle has aided me in many such emergencies.  Once, for instance, I found when I was laid off from work that my preparedness and stringently frugal …

The post How Do You Define an “Emergency Situation”?, by A.Y. appeared first on SurvivalBlog.com.

SurvivalBlog’s News From The American Redoubt

by James Wesley Rawles in SurvivalBlog.com on 2025-07-15T07:02:10Z

This weekly column features news stories and event announcements from around the American Redoubt region. (Idaho, Montana, eastern Oregon, eastern Washington, and Wyoming.) Much of the region is also more commonly known as The Inland Northwest. We also mention companies located in the American Redoubt region that are of interest to preppers and survivalists. Today, news of a partial rock tower collapse in the Grand Tetons (See the Wyoming section.) Region-Wide From the left-leaning Newsweek: Idaho group calls federal intervention “necessary” to redraw state border. (Thanks to SurvivalBlog reader C.B. for the link.) o  o  o Inland Northwest faces above-normal …

The post SurvivalBlog’s News From The American Redoubt appeared first on SurvivalBlog.com.

The Editors’ Quote of the Day:

by James Wesley Rawles in SurvivalBlog.com on 2025-07-15T07:01:22Z

“It is curious to look back and realize upon what trivial and apparently coincidental circumstances great events frequently turn as easily and naturally as a door on its hinges.” – H. Rider Haggard

The post The Editors’ Quote of the Day: appeared first on SurvivalBlog.com.

Our intern, Madeleine Golob, interviewed Reserve Marine Major Emily Maurer for this installment of Gal Gab. Find out more about this high-energy, homeschooling, duty driven (in so many ways – including her country) mom.
The answer is yes, because Jesus is the Prince of Peace and silence is peace and quiet. In This Episode Erin and Weer’d discuss a professor in Maine who seems to hate Christians as much as she hates the right … Continue reading

No Litter Tray Yet

by Clayton Cramer in Clayton Cramer. on 2025-07-15T01:18:00Z

A friend works for a local Wal-Mart.  A male co-worker identifies as a woman and as a cat.  What amazes me is that here in Idaho,  a pretty conservative place has lots of Wal-Mart employees engaged in outrageous displays of insulting mental illness.

This Has to Stop

by Clayton Cramer in Clayton Cramer. on 2025-07-15T01:03:00Z

A few days ago NASA described an asteroid in George Washington heights.  Now this from 7/14/25 Yahoo News:
"Asteroid 2025 MA90 is set to fly past the Earth on Tuesday, July 15. With an estimated diameter of 88.8 meters, that comes out to around 145 Elmos, thanks to measurements taken by Drew Brees.

"An asteroid the size of around 145 Elmos is set to pass the Earth on Tuesday, July 15, according to NASA's asteroid tracker."

Almost?  Metric system measurements were based on the meter (one ten millionth of the distance from the equator to the North Pole through two French cities, one of them, Paris I think).  Imperial system foot was originally the length of the King of England's foot.  There is nothing particularly about one superior to the other, but at least they are not based on cartoon characters.

OPE Cable Management: Wrangling Your Ear Pro Cables

by Bryan Scepaniak in The Firearm Blog on 2025-07-15T00:00:00Z

With the continually growing popularity of ear protection with cable downleads there’s a growing need for a system to manage those downleads when not in use. Enter the OPE Gear LCM (Lead Cable Management) Wrap, or just LCM for short.

France – hope lost?

by TPOL Nathan in The Price of Liberty on 2025-07-15T00:00:00Z

Today is Bastille Day. On this day, in 1789 (235 years back), a mob stormed the prison in Paris, the Bastille, to liberate a grand total of seven prisoners, none of them actually there for significant political reasons. Another “crowd” … Continue reading

POTD: The PROOF x Microtech L.U.D.T. Knife

by Eric B in The Firearm Blog on 2025-07-14T23:30:00Z

I like Proof Research’s carbon fibre barrels (I have one on order for a DMR build) and I like Microtech’s knives. Here those two brands are combined, and it should be no surprise that I like this knife too. These images are also perfect for TFB’s Photo Of The Day.
Hello and welcome back to another edition of The Rimfire Report! This ongoing series is all about the rimfire firearm world and all of its different guns, gear, ammo, and shooting sports! Today we’re going to be checking out a specific .22LR ammunition that I know has been the subject of a lot of debate over the years - Remington Golden Bullet .22LR. Remington’s frontline budget .22LR load has historically been the subject of mixed, if not outright negative, discussions when it comes to reliability and overall cleanliness. I’ve recently had the opportunity to pick up a couple of boxes of Remington’s revamped Golden Bullet .36 grain line, and today we’ll be going over my experiences with it so far in a few different firearms.

I Was Much the Same at the Same Age

by JDZ in Never Yet Melted on 2025-07-14T20:05:49Z

In this 1955 photograph, 13 year old Princess Yvonne of Sayn-Wittgenstein-Sayn in Germany is shown tipping back a bottle of Dry Sack sherry as her 12 year old brother Prince Alexander sits calmly by, his cigarette nearly finished. The photo was taken while the siblings were aboard a private yacht off the coast of Mallorca. […]

Continuing a gradual but steady increase for the first six months of the year, the number of active concealed pistol licenses in Washington State has once again climbed to a new record of 709,334 at the end of June, according to data from the state Department of Licensing. Back on Dec. 31, the DOL reported […]

The post WA Concealed Carry Climb Continues, Defying ‘Blue State’ Image appeared first on Liberty Park Press.

You get what you vote for. Good and hard. And some want it gooder and harder. [More] Why are the so-called “gun safety groups” afraid to be associated with this anti-gun “Democrat”? Why not ask them?

The post Mamdani Useful in Exposing Democrats’ ‘Commonsense Gun Safety’ Lie and More first appeared on The War on Guns.

Not By Design

by admin in The War on Guns on 2025-07-14T19:00:27Z

Accidental Shooting Statistics: A Review of Unintentional Firearm Deaths from 1979-2024 [More] I’d use “negligent,” but we know is meant. I read how “the first six months of 2025 had 608 accidental shootings, which is lower than previous years (2015-2024)” and wondered if we ought to get David Hogg to credit more Democrats.

The post Not By Design first appeared on The War on Guns.

We’re the Only Ones Unhirable Enough

by admin in The War on Guns on 2025-07-14T18:47:34Z

The New York City Police Department cannot immediately fire dozens of rookie officers, including some with criminal records, who were allegedly hired illegally by the department, a New York Supreme Court judge ruled. The NYPD said an internal investigation found the 31 officers lied about their backgrounds on applications and should be relieved of their … Continue reading "We’re the Only Ones Unhirable Enough"

The post We’re the Only Ones Unhirable Enough first appeared on The War on Guns.

San Mateo County Sheriff Christina Corpus, who told the county supervisors she didn’t know about her department’s request to buy 10 massage chairs, actually tried to pass off the bill for the chairs to the sheriff’s bureaus in different cities to minimize scrutiny, according to an email from her HR manager…In March… Corpus purchased two … Continue reading "We’re the Only Ones Snouts in the Trough Enough"

The post We’re the Only Ones Snouts in the Trough Enough first appeared on The War on Guns.

We’re the Only Ones Claiming Enough

by admin in The War on Guns on 2025-07-14T18:10:30Z

Former LCSO deputy facing charges for making fraudulent $94K insurance claim in wife’s name [More] And that previous accusation of abusing his daughter was a nice touch. Where do they get these people from? [Via Steve T]

The post We’re the Only Ones Claiming Enough first appeared on The War on Guns.

As Opposed to a Surplus of Indoctrination?

by admin in The War on Guns on 2025-07-14T18:01:00Z

Jasmine Crockett claims most people vote the ‘wrong way’ due to a lack of education [More] What, is she speaking from constituent experience…? I’m wondering how a “real reporter” could file this story and not think to look into that. It was the first thing I thought of, but I’m #justablogger. [Via bondmen]

The post As Opposed to a Surplus of Indoctrination? first appeared on The War on Guns.

A Public Service announcement

by Borepatch in Borepatch on 2025-07-14T18:01:00Z

All your drill batteries will be almost dead when you start a project.  Both will make the drill spin when you test them out, but they'll both be dead in an hour.

Follow me for more Home Improvement tips. 

Konus enters the (extreme) long-range riflescope arena with the launch of their new Invincible optic. Designed to deliver serious long-range performance in a durable, high-powered package, it packs some really interesting specifications with a 5x-50x zoom power and a 60mm objective diameter. Built around a large 34mm main tube, and combined with ED (Extra-low Dispersion) glass, this setup is said to deliver crisp resolution and excellent light transmission, even at the highest zoom levels.

We’re the Only Ones Got Your Back Enough

by admin in The War on Guns on 2025-07-14T17:50:15Z

“When the officers are shooting him in the back, he’s not a threat. You cannot shoot civilians in the back. That’s the worst of it and most of the shots were in the back,” Pleban said. [More] Inigo responds to “Back the Blue.” [Via bondmen]

The post We’re the Only Ones Got Your Back Enough first appeared on The War on Guns.

We’re the Only Ones Negligent Enough

by admin in The War on Guns on 2025-07-14T17:44:40Z

The report, ordered by Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley, R-Iowa, reveals that the Secret Service received classified intelligence regarding a threat to Trump’s life 10 days before the rally, but failed to share the information with other key agencies. [More] So THAT explains ordinary people seeing the shooter before they did and not going … Continue reading "We’re the Only Ones Negligent Enough"

The post We’re the Only Ones Negligent Enough first appeared on The War on Guns.

We’re the Only Ones Unelectrifying Enough

by admin in The War on Guns on 2025-07-14T17:37:46Z

Conn. officer arrested after shooting at suspect with gun he thought was TASER [More] And then the chief defends him even after hearing him lie about it on bodycam. [Via Jess]

The post We’re the Only Ones Unelectrifying Enough first appeared on The War on Guns.

The Spirit of Aloha

by admin in The War on Guns on 2025-07-14T17:22:17Z

Hawai‘i Police Department (HPD) will hold two public hearings in August 2025, one in Hilo and one in Kona, regarding its proposal to repeal “Rules and Regulations of the Hawai’i Police Department Governing the Issuance of Licenses to Carry Concealed and Unconcealed Weapons” adopted October 29, 1997, and to adopt Rule 1 relating to Firearms … Continue reading "The Spirit of Aloha"

The post The Spirit of Aloha first appeared on The War on Guns.

FALCO Holsters has introduced its Multi-Fit collection, designed to simplify holster selection for a wide range of firearms. This series offers practical solutions for pistol and revolver owners, with options in leather and nylon to suit various carry styles. It’s a reliable choice for shooters seeking quality gear that adapts to their needs, making it a notable addition to the market.

Where Credit is Due?

by admin in The War on Guns on 2025-07-14T16:50:56Z

@MayorBMScott has gotten no where near the credit he deserves for helping lead Baltimore to a record low in gun violence. He’s leading the way and there’s lots to learn from how Baltimore achieved this. [More] What did he actually do and what’s the methodology used to determine effects? Otherwise, this is just more correlation … Continue reading "Where Credit is Due?"

The post Where Credit is Due? first appeared on The War on Guns.

Rapex 2.0

by admin in The War on Guns on 2025-07-14T16:20:17Z

Instead of addressing the factors driving this violence—such as massive and uncontrolled immigration—the reaction is a grotesque distraction: proposing “trap condoms” with internal spikes designed to injure the attacker’s penis. [More] It’s been done. And it didn’t work then, either. Maybe if they combined it with anti-rape electric underwear… I guess it doesn’t occur to … Continue reading "Rapex 2.0"

The post Rapex 2.0 first appeared on The War on Guns.

Absolutely. F_ ICE and everyone who supports them. These thugs are America’s gestapo, our modern national shame, and must be stopped at every opportunity. [More] And did you have any doubt? [Via Michael G]

The post What She Means is ‘F_ YOU’ to 70+M Americans first appeared on The War on Guns.

Crazy Talk

by admin in The War on Guns on 2025-07-14T15:59:17Z

Are you insane? You seriously think you should be allowed to kill someone just because they’re in your home? [More] That’s either tongue-pushing-through-cheek-tissue satire or proof that hard core anti-gunners are clinically delusional. [Via Michael G]

The post Crazy Talk first appeared on The War on Guns.

Thank God Almighty, They’re Free at Last!

by admin in The War on Guns on 2025-07-14T15:50:28Z

Here Comes the Second Amendment Revolution in New Jersey [Watch] Bull$h1+. [Via Jess]

The post Thank God Almighty, They’re Free at Last! first appeared on The War on Guns.

A Forced Reset

by admin in The War on Guns on 2025-07-14T15:39:33Z

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) confirmed to a judge that it will not return Forced Reset Triggers (FRTs) to Nevada or other plaintiff states. Rare Breed Triggers, the largest U.S. supplier of FRTs, also confirmed it will not sell these devices in the plaintiff states. Consequently, the coalition is withdrawing its … Continue reading "A Forced Reset"

The post A Forced Reset first appeared on The War on Guns.

Why "MAYDAY"?

by Pawpaw in PawPaw's House on 2025-07-14T15:25:00Z

 Waiting for the AC guy, I was surfing around and came upon some videos talking about the Air India crash. And I started wondering why MAYDAY became the universal call for distress.  So, I started looking again.  From Wikipedia:

The "mayday" procedure word was conceived as a distress call in the early 1920s by Frederick Stanley Mockford, officer-in-charge of radio at Croydon Airport, England. He had been asked to think of a word that would indicate distress and would easily be understood by all pilots and ground staff in an emergency.[1][2] Since much of the air traffic at the time was between Croydon and Le Bourget Airport in Paris, he proposed the term "mayday", the phonetic equivalent of the French m'aider.

 And there you have it.  It was phonetically distinctive and easily understood over the radios of the day. And now you know.

War of Words

by admin in The War on Guns on 2025-07-14T15:21:29Z

Democrats’ ‘violent rhetoric’ is precisely the point [More] Words have meaning. They can inspire. And they can come back to haunt. Those egging on violence would do well to remember that.

The post War of Words first appeared on The War on Guns.

Another One Bites the Dust

by admin in The War on Guns on 2025-07-14T15:13:52Z

All in all, there is hardly any evidence that handgun waiting period laws make a difference in homicides or suicides… As far as suicides are concerned, they have no effect on either gun suicide rates or total suicide rates. [More] Another prohibitionist bit of calculated misdirection, that is… Everybody here is totally aware of Gun … Continue reading "Another One Bites the Dust"

The post Another One Bites the Dust first appeared on The War on Guns.

The Steyr STM-556: A Rare Piston AR-15 with AUG DNA

by James Reeves in The Firearm Blog on 2025-07-14T15:00:00Z

James Reeves is in Austria at Austria Arms with Martin, checking out one of the rarest AR-15 variants you’ve never heard of: the Steyr STM-556. This rifle combines Steyr AUG DNA with an AR-15 layout—featuring a quick-change barrel, proprietary monolithic upper, a piston gas system, and some truly bizarre ergonomics. Only 300 of these were ever made for the commercial market. Is this a misunderstood military rifle, or just an expensive oddball? Watch and find out as we test it at the range and compare it side-by-side with the LMT MRP.

Sleeping with the Enemy

by admin in The War on Guns on 2025-07-14T14:59:52Z

As with every anti-firearm “political agreement” at the UN, had it succeeded, U.S. manufacturers, retailers and users would be forced to comply with a global regulatory regime that no Congress ever approved and no American citizen voted for. [More] How, without complicity and betrayal by the U.S. government? Naturally, NSSF is all for international engagement. … Continue reading "Sleeping with the Enemy"

The post Sleeping with the Enemy first appeared on The War on Guns.

Spoke Too Soon

by Pawpaw in PawPaw's House on 2025-07-14T14:39:00Z

 I was feeling good about the home AC unit until about 5:00 yesterday, when it went out again.  Just dammit. I borrowed a portable AC unit and installed it in the bedroom so that Belle could sleep comfortably. Then started texting around, getting recommendations from friends.

This morning, I found a guy, recommended highly by a friend.  I called him and he said that he could be here sometime early afternoon, as soon as he finishes a job, he's on just across town. That works for me.  Belle and I are in she the shop, where there is plenty of air conditioning. In battling the weather it helps to have a fallback position.

Even My Needs Are Not That High

by Clayton Cramer in Clayton Cramer. on 2025-07-14T14:12:00Z

I spend a lot of time downloading old books and newspapers but even i do not need 125 GB/second.  Tell me what gaming environment does 
Check out Headstamp Publishing’s extensive catalog of excellent books: https://www.headstamppublishing.com/home-forgotten When France was looking to replace the MAS 49/56 rifle for military service in the 1970s, it tested all of the major rifle options available. [...]

The post Roller Delay in France: The H&K 33F (Trials & Export Models) first appeared on Forgotten Weapons.

Welcome to TFB Weekly Web Deals 146! We’re back with more deals on guns, gear, ammunition, and accessories from some of our most frequented online retailers like Primary Arms, Natchez Shooters Supply, Palmetto State Armory, Brownells, and more. Whether you’re looking for deals on new or used guns, ammo to add to your reserves, or specific accessories like flashlights, range bags, optics, bipods, and magazines, each week we’ll have new sets of deals that might fulfill one of those needs and save you a few dollars.

R.I.P. BIG AL

by Mas in on 2025-07-14T13:00:00Z

A friend and a truly great lawman has passed. Our mutual friend Jeff Chudwin informs us that Al Kulovitz died peacefully after a long illness. Al began his career as an evidence technician with the Cook County Sheriff’s Office headquartered in Chicago. As you might imagine from the location, he worked a great many homicides. […]
Quote of the Day T-Mobile has announced it is the latest company to scrap its Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) programs as it seeks regulatory approval from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) for two new business deals that could significantly … Continue reading

Automotif DLXXXIV...

by Tam in View From The Porch on 2025-07-14T12:52:00Z


I hate it when I juuuust miss a shot, like I did with this 1968 "Series 1½" Jaguar XK-E. I was panning with the Sony a700 and 16-80mm f/3.5-4.5 Zeiss Vario-Sonnar T* zoom lens. I started at the extreme end of the zoom range and had to back out a bit as the car passed, but didn't manage to back out far enough.

The "Series 1½" E-types have some of the changes mandated by the new FMVSS standards: Headlamp covers removed and non-winged wheel nuts are the most obvious.

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WA: Redmond - Attempted Car Theft , Aggressive Suspect Shot

by Dean Weingarten in GUN WATCH on 2025-07-14T11:49:00Z

An employee of a nearby business reported to police he had confronted a man who was trying to steal his car.

The suspect allegedly became aggressive, prompting the employee, who was legally armed, to fire his gun and shoot the suspect in the stomach.

"At some point during the encounter, the suspect moved aggressively towards the owner of the car. That individual elected to use his firearm and shot the weapon, striking the suspect once, " said James Perry, Redmond Police Public Information Officer. “The individual who fired his weapon made the statement to us that it was in self-defense."


More Here 


IL: Kanakee - Gunfight, Aggressor and Victim both wounded

by Dean Weingarten in GUN WATCH on 2025-07-14T11:46:00Z

Officers arrived to find Carmona and the 31-year-old man with gunshot wounds and a handgun discarded beneath a vehicle in the parking lot.

Both were transported to Riverside Medical Center. Carmona was later transferred to Loyola Medical Center, police said.

The 23-year-old victim was taken into custody on scene after alerting officers that he had returned fire in self-defense and surrendered his firearm — a Glock .45 caliber handgun — located beneath a nearby vehicle.

The victim was legally carrying a firearm as he is a FOID/CCL holder.

Video surveillance obtained from the scene allegedly confirmed that Carmona was the initial aggressor. The victim returned fire. After being shot, Carmona gave his weapon to an unidentified accomplice who fled the scene.


More Here

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Monday Meme Dump!

by Tam in View From The Porch on 2025-07-14T11:44:00Z




IN: Indianapolis - Vehicle Owner Shoots Carjacking Suspect

by Dean Weingarten in GUN WATCH on 2025-07-14T11:41:00Z

According to the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department, just after 12:30 a.m., officers responded to the Shell Gas Station in the 3800 block of East New York Street on the report of a person shot.

When officers arrived, they located a male with injuries consistent with gunshot wounds. He was transported to an area hospital in “very critical condition”, according to police.

According to IMPD Captain Don Weilhammer, it is believed the male was shot during an attempted carjacking. Investigators say the owner of the vehicle “prevented the carjacking from happening.”


More Here


Tab Clearing...

by Tam in View From The Porch on 2025-07-14T11:09:00Z

Spring Thaw, Nikon 35Ti, Ilford HP5


A confluence of travel, family events, and a relentless “heat dome” had kept me from enjoying any quality porch time with a cigar and a drink for a couple of weeks. Needless to say, I was looking forward to the past weekend and some much-needed time on the deck.

Scanning the selections in the humidor, I searched for something bold and long-lasting — I wasn’t about to cut this long-awaited pairing short. Despite a less-than-stellar experience the last time around, I decided to give the E.P. Carrillo La Historia E-III another try, with high hopes it would redeem itself.

Now for the drink. I reached for the nearly empty bottle of Old Elk Double Wheat Whiskey, thinking its sweetness might pair well with the richness of the cigar. Time to find out.


The E.P. Carrillo La Historia E-III is a 6⅞″ × 54 Toro. It features an oily Mexican San Andrés Maduro wrapper over an Ecuadorian Sumatra binder, with a filler blend of Nicaraguan and Dominican tobaccos. Though a bit rough in appearance, the wrapper is surprisingly slick — so much so that when I tapped off the ash, the cigar nearly slipped from my fingers. It’s mildly box-pressed and dressed with a blue foot ribbon and ornate double bands. Personally, I find the taped-on foot ribbons many brands use to be superfluous and somewhat distracting, but to each their own.

The first puffs delivered bold notes of bitter cocoa and coffee, with an espresso-like intensity that built as the cigar burned on. Later, dark chocolate and mixed nuts emerged, adding complexity. A subtle lingering sweetness carried through the finish. The La Historia is a full-bodied smoke that delights the palate from start to finish.

Thankfully, this particular stick had none of the draw or burn issues I encountered with the previous one. And truthfully, I didn’t expect it to. I’m not put off by the occasional dud — these are, after all, hand-rolled bundles of tobacco leaves. It’s exactly why I tend to buy multiples of a cigar: I prefer not to judge an entire line based on a single outlier.



Just like the cigar, the Old Elk Double Wheat Whiskey was a winner. This blend combines Old Elk’s 6–8-year Wheat Whiskey with their 6-year Wheated Bourbon, resulting in a mash bill that’s 71.5% wheat, and bottled at 107.1 proof.

From the glass, the aroma is rich with sweet dough, cinnamon, butterscotch, and brown sugar — a dessert in a glass. On the palate, it delivers again: caramel, vanilla, and more brown sugar, all supported by the soft sweetness of the wheat. There’s a pleasant warmth, and a creamy, rye-tinged finish that extends the flavor treat.

I was honestly a little sad to see the bottle emptied. I snagged it in 2023 during a 50% off closeout sale, and a recent search of the VA ABC site shows no remaining inventory in the state.

The pairing of the E.P. Carrillo La Historia E-III and Old Elk Double Wheat Whiskey exceeded expectations. The rich, sweet-leaning profiles of both made for a deeply satisfying experience. While I may be out of the whiskey, I look forward to revisiting the La Historia with other sweet bourbons and wheated expressions in the future.

Cheers!


[ This content originated at Musings Over a Barrel ]

Lives lost and DEI is most likely the cause

by Midwest Chick in Midwest Chick's Place on 2025-07-14T10:30:00Z

The Austin Firefighter’s Association has voted ‘no confidence’ on its Chief, Joel Baker. From their Facebook page: It brings the Austin Firefighters no pleasure to report to the community that the Austin Fire Chief DENIED the deployment of Austin firefighters to Kerrville until very late into the event (so today!), with the exception of only […]

Preparedness Notes for Monday — July 14, 2025

by James Wesley Rawles in SurvivalBlog.com on 2025-07-14T07:05:59Z

July 14 1962:  The borehole for the 7.2-mile long Mont Blanc tunnel between France and Italy was finished.  The tunnel was opened to traffic in July, 1965. Pictured is the French side of the tunnel. — July 14, 1850: The first public demonstration of ice made via refrigeration was made by Florida physician John Gorrie. — July 14, 1864: Gold was discovered in Helena, Montana. — A silver bull breakout! Spot silver jumped 3.67% in one day, to close at $38.67 per Troy ounce on Friday. (July 11, 2025.) It was up again this morning (after Asian trading) to $38.90 …

The post Preparedness Notes for Monday — July 14, 2025 appeared first on SurvivalBlog.com.

Stihl MS261C Chainsaw, by Thomas Christianson

by Thomas Christianson in SurvivalBlog.com on 2025-07-14T07:04:51Z

With a magnesium-alloy crankcase, captive bar-nuts, a decompression valve, and a host of other premium features, the Stihl MS261 is its various forms represents a well-designed and well-constructed professional chainsaw. But it is the light weight and the outstanding power-to-weight-ratio of the saw that secures its place as one of the most popular chainsaws in the world. With a manufacturer-suggested retail price of $709.99 at the time of this writing for the C-M version with a 16 inch bar, the saw represents a great value for high-volume wood cutting. If you only cut a few cord or less of firewood …

The post Stihl MS261C Chainsaw, by Thomas Christianson appeared first on SurvivalBlog.com.

Recipe of the Week: Applesauce-Glazed Barbequed Chicken

by James Wesley Rawles in SurvivalBlog.com on 2025-07-14T07:03:20Z

The following recipe for Applesauce-Glazed Barbequed Chicken is from SurvivalBlog reader V.F.. Ingredients 4 boneless and skinless chicken breast halves (weighing about 6 ounces each) 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper (or less, to suit your taste) 1 tablespoon olive oil 2/3 cup of applesauce 2 tablespoons brown sugar 2/3 cup barbecue sauce 1 teaspoon chili powder (or less, to suit your taste) Directions Sprinkle the chicken breast pieces with pepper. In a large oiled skillet, brown chicken on both sides. In a small bowl, combine and thoroughly mix the other ingredients. Pour the mixture over the top and sides of …

The post Recipe of the Week: Applesauce-Glazed Barbequed Chicken appeared first on SurvivalBlog.com.

SurvivalBlog Graphic of the Week

by James Wesley Rawles in SurvivalBlog.com on 2025-07-14T07:02:36Z

Today’s graphic: Economic Activity in the US. This map shows the nation’s gross economic activity, split in half. (Graphic courtesy of Reddit.) JWR’s Comments: This map is an oversimplification. The locations of major corporate headquarters skew the map. Here are just two examples: There are McDonald’s franchises all over the country generating revenue, but the McDonald’s headquarters is in Chicago, Illinois. General Mills is headquartered in Minneapolis, Minnesota. It markets packaged farm products (predominantly grains) grown in rural areas of more than a dozen states. The thumbnail below is click-expandable.       — Please send your graphics or graphics links …

The post SurvivalBlog Graphic of the Week appeared first on SurvivalBlog.com.

The Editors’ Quote of the Day:

by James Wesley Rawles in SurvivalBlog.com on 2025-07-14T07:01:42Z

“The great object of my fear is the federal judiciary. That body, like gravity, ever acting, with noiseless foot, and unalarming advance, gaining ground step by step, and holding what it gains, is engulfing insidiously the special governments into the jaws of that which feeds them.” – Thomas Jefferson, in a letter to Judge Spencer Roane, March 9, 1821

The post The Editors’ Quote of the Day: appeared first on SurvivalBlog.com.

Pro-shooter Julie Golob shares her Project ChildSafe story in this video.

I Suspect Bribery

by Clayton Cramer in Clayton Cramer. on 2025-07-14T04:21:00Z

7/13/25 BBC:
"A man has escaped a French prison by hiding in the bag of a fellow inmate who was leaving prison after serving their sentence, officials told local media.

"The prison service has launched an investigation after the man escaped from Lyon-Corbas prison in south-east France on Friday, according to broadcaster BFMTV.

"He "took advantage of the liberation of his fellow inmate to hide himself in his luggage and get out", the prison service said in a statement to AFP news agency."


You may recall the 1966 Mission: Impossible pilot involves Wally Cox smuggled into the hotel vault that way to get access to two H-bombs.  (Yeah, right, but still an awesome pilot. (


I am more inclined to think bribed guards.  He was under investigation for organized crime.

Ever Worried About Disposing Of A Firearm

by Glenn B in BALLSEYE'S BOOMERS on 2025-07-14T02:50:00Z

On a few to maybe even several occasions, I have wondered, if not worried, about guns that I have gotten rid of. There are several ways, over the years I have owned guns, by which I have gotten rid of firearms I have owned. They include: selling, giving away,  being stolen, another was disassembled and thrown into the channel in a saltwater bay (no I did not shoot anyone with it before that).
 
 What I have wondered about, even worried about, has been: did the person receiving it or recovering it plan to or actually use it in the commission of a crime. That is probably a very unlikely outcome with the one that went into the bay but what about for some others.
 
About a year or so ago - when I realized the last name of a criminal, who shot multiple people, was the same last name of a guy to whom I had sold a gun - I started to wonder about what if it had been the same guy! Luckily, it was not the same guy to whom I had sold it because I can just imagine the pain in the neck it could become. Things like law enforcement making inquiries of me about the sale, unwanted and unnecessary attention from the ATF, the possiblity of being sued by victims of the guy's crime because I sold him a the firearm he used to commit  the crime creeped into my mind. Who needs all that!
 
Now, even though I try to remember if I sold a gun to anyone with the same name as a criminal I have read about in current news of a shooting, I am not all that concerned but do wonder. At least, I am not concerned enough to stop selling guns. Why not? Well, because every sale I make is 100% legal. I just wonder, or worry a little bit, is all that a gun I disposed of maybe was or will bbe used to commit a crime. I certainly hope not.
 
All the best,
Glenn B 
 
 

While I Really Like the Idea of the Chromebook

by Clayton Cramer in Clayton Cramer. on 2025-07-14T02:02:00Z

This Epoch Times article captures the hazard of being completely dependent on a network provided software service rather than software you can run locally. 

Of course,  anything where you are connected to the Internet has risks even on a local PC 
U.s. v. Morgan (10th Cir. 2025) is an appeal of a district court decision that ruled that machine guns are protected by the Second Amendment.  (YES!)  i have started listening to the oral arguments.

Even before the U.S. attorney got a paragraph into his argument,  one of the judges corrected him that his quote from Heller that limited the Second Amendment to arms that were in common use for self-defense was incorrect; the decision did not limit it to arms that could be used for self-defense.

Two of the judges are asking really good questions about how to apply Bruen tests.  The U.S. attorney is stumbling over his own argument. 

I will keep listening.   Other excerpts that I have heard excerpted suggest that attorneys arguing for protection did an inadequate job preparing for the "are surface to air missiles arms?  Are nuclear weapons arms?"  Being able to clearly draw distinctions that have an historical basis matters. 

The defense attorney is clearly not technologically aware.  He tries to distinguish a full auto AR15 from a machine gun in not having a 500 round capacity.

Honey West

by Clayton Cramer in Clayton Cramer. on 2025-07-13T22:33:00Z

If you are as antique as I am, you may recall a 1960s TV show called Honey West, which starred Anne Francis and John Ericson.  It was an odd little show.  In an era when 30 minute shows were almost always sitcoms, it was a stylish detective show with a very light touch.

Anne Francis was one of the most beautiful actresses of the period in a sophisticated, classy way.  You would never confuse her with Jayne Mansfield or Marilyn Monroe.  I saw this video of the pilot.  Mostly for nostalgia, I watched it and remembered why I have such fond memories of it: some clever dialog (Honey is handing off her Jaguar E-type to the valet who points to Honey's ocelot in the passenger seat, "don't worry,  he's eaten"), some opportunities to see Honey go head in head in combat against bad guys,  an interesting relationship with her sidekick and apparently boyfriend, which was a somewhat startling twist for the time, and a few pieces of dialog challenging sexual stereotypes of the early 1960s.

Oh yes, the not quite pubescent boy found the 1960s formal gown in the opening credits quite interesting. 
Infidels could not have overpowered their country without invoking supernatural powers. Iranian official claims Israel used ‘the occult and supernatural spirits’ during 12-day war What other reason could there be?

The Late Robert Nozick

by JDZ in Never Yet Melted on 2025-07-13T19:56:49Z

Many problems at Columbia would have been solved if professors spoke to their students the way Nozick did. https://t.co/EbFr4gsdyj — Aaron Sibarium (@aaronsibarium) July 12, 2025

Cool Breze

by Pawpaw in PawPaw's House on 2025-07-13T19:11:00Z

 Belle and I spent most of yesterday in the shop, as we usually doo.  About cocktail hour, we went intot he house to find that the AC unit had quit working.  I put a call in to my AC guy, not really expecting a response late on a Saturday afternoon. Well, hell.  It soon got too hot, so we fell back to the shop where the AC units work. and spent the night in the shop.  Noot terribly comfortable, but it beat the hell out oof sweating our butts off.

I started watching YouTube DIY videos and trying to learn what I could about modern AC units.  Before lunch, second son came over and we tore the outside unit apart to do some troubleshooting.  We learned that the controller and the capacitor are okay, and that the problem seemed to be in the control circuits.  And, we were having a problem with a switch called the high pressure reset switch.  After we got the unit torn apart, I got out the water hose and gave the condenser coil a good washing from the inside.

Just before we were about to quit in disgust, second son had the idea of turning the complete system off at the breakers, waiting five minutes, and letting the endite system reset.  We tried that and it worked.   When we turned the breakers back on, the system came to life. The house is cooling off slowly, and it appears that Belle will be able to sleep in her bed tonight.

I am pleased to know that the compressor is okay, the fan is working, and the controls seem to be operating for the time being.  When my AC guy calls me tomorrow, I'll schedule a service, tell him everything I've done, and let him give the unit a thorough inspection.  The unit has been running now for about two hours and the house is cooling down.  We are spoiled to air conditioning in these latitudes and I do not apologize for that.

I posted about this a few days ago. And I have had some more time to think about it and read what other people have said. I am still undecided, but I am leaning towards abolishing them one at a … Continue reading

Winged Freedom

by Unknown in Home on the Range on 2025-07-13T17:26:00Z

 In that hour, when night is calmest, Sang he from the Hebrew Psalmist,  in a voice so sweet and clear. That I could not choose but hear.--Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

I've several bird feeders outside my dining room window, each holding different types of seeds for various birds, a suet holder or two, and a birdbath filled with fresh water twice a day in the summer. I enjoy watching and listening to them while having my coffee in the morning.

Most of the birds that I easily recognize are the sparrows, my favorite, the Cardinal, and the occasional dove. There are ways to tell birds apart other than by looks or color. You can study what they eat and, of course, what they won't eat, by whether they sleep high up or snuggled down safe in a low covering, and by whether they eat more in the morning or at night. By the shape and size of the nest, if there is one. By their connection to the nearest body of water, if one exists, and to what degree that close body of water is necessary, to some of us, more essential than anything we could ever realize. 


Birds are meant to fly free, not be caged in. I've had a couple of parakeets over the years, but I always felt a twinge of guilt for keeping them locked up, even in a large cage. After my last two, I said "no more" and changed my mind about getting another when I moved. When you hold a bird in your hand, it closes its eyes in resignation. Trust. Or fear?



I once had a neighbor in the country who kept a quail in a cage just so he could hear the "bobwhite" of its call. I'd watch the bird in there, reminding me of a prisoner in a small cell in a prison camp, sending out small Morse code signals in hopes of someone hearing him and rescuing him. But no one came to rescue him, and I could only think of him growing old and dying there in that tiny cage, his prison cell, his will deflating, his spirit becoming drab as his prison uniform over time. I don't believe the man did it to be cruel; he simply thought, like others, that he could take a wild thing in and tame it, that it would only require the creature to make an adjustment in its lifestyle, to shift the center of its desire from one thing to another. 


One day, while the neighbor was away, I went over and quietly opened the cage door. The bird was gone in a flash, with the urgency born of imprisoned spring and the awakening of burgeoning truth; to itself, the sun and the wind, not the man who caged it.



The air is smoky this morning, the remnants of someone burning off some brush after we had a good soaking rain first. From the smoke, the birds escape up into the clear sky, up from the dense remains of green into the veined complexity of sky, where space and freedom interface. From aloft, they spot my feeder, simply looking for some shelter and some food, while keeping the freedom of their wing.

For isn't that what we all desire

 - Brigid

“The Dumbest Woman in the World”

by JDZ in Never Yet Melted on 2025-07-13T17:09:52Z

Portrait of the last Roman Emperor found

by Borepatch in Borepatch on 2025-07-13T15:44:00Z

Somehow I missed this last December.  It appears to have been painted during his lifetime, likely by someone who knew what he looked like.

The presence of the double-headed eagles on the figure’s garment, in combination with the other insignia, identifies the man in the image as the emperor.

Constantine XI Palaiologos’ brothers, the despotes Demetrios and Thomas, were the sponsors of the Monastery’s renovation. [Note: But they were not Emperors and the portrait is definitely an Emperor - Borepatch]

The newly discovered portrait is the last chronologically surviving portrait of an emperor in Byzantine monumental painting and the only portrait of Constantine XI Palaiologos during his brief reign (6 January 1449 – 29 May 1453).


The double eagle symbol came into common use during the last dynasty of the emperors. 

Sunday Memes!

by Tam in View From The Porch on 2025-07-13T14:04:00Z




Quote of the Day Guns being stolen from cars is a problem…one created by failed government policies and anti-gun corporate rules that coerce responsible gun owners into leaving firearms in vehicles. The government creates the problem, complains about it, then … Continue reading

Investigators say the incident began as both vehicles—a silver Audi driven by Johnson and a dark-colored Toyota Prius—were traveling west on the 400 block of West Hamilton Street. As they crossed 5th Street, Johnson allegedly forced the Prius to the curb and stopped. He then exited his vehicle carrying a metal bat resembling those used in baseball training and struck the driver's side door of the Prius.

The driver of the Prius, who possesses a valid license to carry, fired a single round from a 9mm handgun, striking Johnson in the torso. The shooter then drove approximately one and a half blocks away, pulled over, and called 911. He remained at the scene and cooperated with authorities. No charges have been filed as of Monday, and the investigation is ongoing to determine if the shooting was justified as self-defense.

More Here


Just after 10 a.m., officers responded to reports of shots fired at a home on the 8600 block of Dowdell Street. A 36-year-old man told police he and his girlfriends had an argument. She left and threatened to bring back a gun and kill him, according to police.

The man said he barricaded the front door of his home. When the woman returned, he heard gunshots outside his door and the woman allegedly forced her way back inside.

He shot her once as she made entry.


More Here


TN: Decature - Domestic Defense, Soon Kills Father

by Dean Weingarten in GUN WATCH on 2025-07-13T12:06:00Z


He says that according to that family, the victim of that shooting, 59-year-old Jackie Fairbanks had been drinking with his grandsons when he became violent and began attacking his wife. 

Those grandsons ran to get their father to intervene, who is the son of Fairbanks.

That son says he discovered Fairbanks on top of and attacking his mother, and attempted to stop Fairbanks’ attack.

However, the son says Fairbanks then attempted to attack him with a long sliver object, and after firing a warning shot, ultimately shot his father multiple times, killing him.

That son is not currently facing any charges, and Johnson says it seems like the second incident is defense while the first incident will require further investigation.



More Here


TN: Decatur - Man Attempts Break-in , is Shot, Killed

by Dean Weingarten in GUN WATCH on 2025-07-13T12:05:00Z

According to District Attorney Russell Johnson, the victim and occupant of the residence were in some sort of dispute.

The victim was at the residence against the occupants wishes, and was trying to enter when he was shot multiple times.

The victim died from his injuries, and no charges have been filed at this time.


More Here


An abundance of caution.

by Tam in View From The Porch on 2025-07-13T11:54:00Z

I'm with SLG on this one. I can't tell you how to butter your biscuits, but I personally would rather not carry a striker-fired pistol with no manual safety AIWB, other than a Glock with a Gadget. (And if it's a single action or striker-fired pistol with a manual safety, I'd only carry it in a holster designed to physically immobilize the safety while holstered.)

Tangentially related, I've been skeptical of pistols with striker-fired ignition systems and no hinge or tab on the trigger since the first popular models emerged, and despite having tried to make peace with the idea, it's just not working out well between me and them.


No one factor makes things "safe". There is no "perfectly safe". All we can do is stack slices of Safety Swiss Cheese atop each other in hopes of keeping the holes of disaster from lining up. You gotta decide how many slices you're comfortable with.




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Sunday Meme Drop

by Midwest Chick in Midwest Chick's Place on 2025-07-13T10:30:00Z

Preparedness Notes for Sunday — July 13, 2025

by James Wesley Rawles in SurvivalBlog.com on 2025-07-13T07:04:47Z

On July  13, 1832, the source of Mississippi River was discovered by American geographer Henry Schoolcraft. — On July 13th, 1772 Captain James Cook began his second voyage to the South Seas aboard HMS Resolution to search for Terra Australis (a Southern continent). — And on this day in 1787, Congress enacted the Northwest Ordinance structuring settlement of the Northwest Territory and creating a policy for the addition of new states to the nation. The Northwest Ordinance established the first organized US territory, set requirements for statehood – guaranteeing equal status with the original 13 states, outlawed slavery in the …

The post Preparedness Notes for Sunday — July 13, 2025 appeared first on SurvivalBlog.com.

My Quest for a Wife: I’m Willing to Move, by Single Farmer

by SurvivalBlog Contributor in SurvivalBlog.com on 2025-07-13T07:03:27Z

I am still looking for a wife. I have been seriously thinking and praying about how to be able to get married and came to the conclusion that moving may possibly be the key. I have also expanded my search for my future wife. I am now looking both domestically and internationally/ If you are international reader or know a young woman overseas, then please read my thoughts on a possible international quest in the last of the frequently asked questions at the bottom of this article. The following is about my search for a spouse in the United States: …

The post My Quest for a Wife: I’m Willing to Move, by Single Farmer appeared first on SurvivalBlog.com.

JWR’s Meme Of The Week:

by James Wesley Rawles in SurvivalBlog.com on 2025-07-13T07:02:24Z

The latest meme created by JWR: Meme Text: I Swear, There Never Was An Epstein Client List And If You Falsely Remember That There Was, Then That Is Just The Mandela Effect News Links: Epstein ‘client list’ doesn’t exist, Justice Department says, walking back theory Bondi had promoted. MTG says Americans are ‘not going to accept’ there is no Epstein client list. Notes From JWR: Do you have a meme idea? Just e-mail me the concept, and I’ll try to assemble it. And if it is posted then I’ll give you credit. Thanks! Permission to repost memes that I’ve created …

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The Editors’ Quote of the Day:

by James Wesley Rawles in SurvivalBlog.com on 2025-07-13T07:01:27Z

“But of the times and the seasons, brethren, ye have no need that I write unto you. For yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord so cometh as a thief in the night. For when they shall say, Peace and safety; then sudden destruction cometh upon them, as travail upon a woman with child; and they shall not escape. But ye, brethren, are not in darkness, that that day should overtake you as a thief. Ye are all the children of light, and the children of the day: we are not of the night, nor of darkness. Therefore …

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Cope, Seethe, Repeat

by Joe in The View From North Central Idaho on 2025-07-13T04:21:36Z

If you like the disrespect of anti-gun people and rough language follow the FPC on X and donate money. They do good work even if their public presence does not have the politeness and polish of the older pro-gun organizations. … Continue reading

Simi Valley, CA

by Clayton Cramer in Civilian Gun Self-Defense Blog on 2025-07-12T23:32:00Z

6/18/25 Fox LA:
"During the investigation, it was revealed the suspect was the wife’s ex-boyfriend and that he was armed with a knife when he broke into the garage.

The couple had multiple issues with the suspect at the home and the woman had a temporary restraining order against her ex in the past. "

Never break into someone's home with a knife.  Even in California,  your target may have a gun.

It Is a Silly Thing But It Brings Back Warm Memories

by Clayton Cramer in Clayton Cramer. on 2025-07-12T22:08:00Z

Doing selfies is easy, backies not so much.

You Have to Love Texas

by JDZ in Never Yet Melted on 2025-07-12T21:53:52Z

This is from a German website Junge Freiheit (Young Freedom).  After discussing the rising rape rate:
"The sociologist Julia Wegen from Ravensburg-Weingarten University and the doctor Urs Schneider from the Fraunhofer Institute for Health Technologies in Stuttgart have announced a study in which they want to examine technical aids against sexual violence.

"The focus is also on an already developed repellent from South Africa. The doctor Sonett Bryant invented an anti-rape condom called „Rape-aXe“ there after she had to regularly treat victims of sexual violence. The latex insert is worn vaginally by women and has pointed barbs on the inside. These drill into the perpetrator's penis when they penetrate and can only be removed medically."

Remember that while rape is a crime of sexual violence,  it is not primarily about sex.   It is primarily about violence and degrading the victim.  I think it would be obvious to anyone outside an ivory tower that a rapist now in excruciating pain is not going to leave his victim without substantial additional injuries.   You are attacking a sick person at two levels: pain and sexual identity.  There is a reason that weapons used by rapists are more often knives than guns.  Even a brief moment of thought will tell you why.

Another "technical aid" to prevent rape is well known and tends to prevent both the current attack and further attacks.   But gun banners insist that women cannot use guns for self-defense.  See here.

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