Facebook Instagram Twitter Youtube
Advertisement

The JetBeam E26 Kunai Flashlight offers abundant features in the palm of your hand

By
Michael D'Angona
-

Tactical flashlights come in many shapes and sizes. However, one thing must be noted. Their performance is not always directly proportionate to their oversized frame. This statement was never truer than when I field-tested the JetBeam E26 KUNAI EDC Flashlight.

The JetBeam E26 Kunai Flashlight

This palm-sized illuminator boasted some incredible specs. They included an 1800 lumen output, multiple light modes, four brightness settings, and a rapid-charging battery. All these amenities were stuffed full within a durable shell just a bit over five-by-one-inches in size. Did the E26 Kunai Flashlight deliver the goods during my testing? The illuminating results are below.

First Thoughts

Honestly speaking, my first thought was that this palm-sized flashlight was nothing more than a novelty that had a few nifty features. To me, it was just too small in its overall dimensions to produce the output that it stated. In the end, I was so wrong with my initial feelings, but more on this later.

Upon a brief inspection, I could feel that the outer metal casing was durable and its construction was tight, with no noticeable seam misalignments or offset mechanics. What my initial look over did do well, though, is make me intrigued to dig in deeper to this pocket-sized flashlight.

Examining Its Features

Between what I personally noted on the unit and the included specs that illustrated all its functions, the following was revealed. The JetBeam E26 Kunai Flashlight offered one-button control of its tactical light with a thick square button at the base of the unit. One heavy press is used to turn the light on, and a second, lighter press puts the flashlight into strobe mode. This mode produces dizzying effects for the unlucky recipient.

Speaking of lighting, one prominent side-positioned button toggles between five lighting modes. These include ultra-low, low, medium, high, and highest. On the opposite end of the unit are two bulbs, sunk into the frame, with four zirconia ceramic beads protruding slightly from the metal casing. These, I learned through the manual, will break glass fast and efficiently for emergency situations involving a vehicle.  

Charging Properties

On the side of the JetBeam E26 Kunai Flashlight is a USB-C charging port that accommodates any compatible charger. Positioned to its right side is a power indicator light that offers three color indicators. Green indicates a charge between 35 and 100 percent. Orange will indicate a  charger between 15 and 35 percent. Finally, a red light will indicate the battery has less than 15 percent charge left in the unit.

The flashlight offers a built-in 1700mAh Li-ion battery with a 39-hour maximum runtime. The manual states that the flashlight will have a “300 days’ ready experience”, which will keep an ultra-low standby current for use when needed.

Finally, aside from the standard white light output, the unit offers green “pointer-light.” I charged the unit, which took a shorter time than expected (just a few hours), and I was now ready to activate this curious illuminator.

Powering Up the E26 Kunai

As the saying goes, the proof is in the performance, and let me tell you, this little powerhouse performed. Upon clicking the on-off button, my dark room lit up immensely. The beam was both focused and sharp. It was difficult to believe that so much power could be generated from such a small source.

From the initial ultra-bright mode, I dialed the power down and toggled through all the settings. The variation of light output was distinctive. I soft-clicked the main power button and experienced the strobe effect. The fluttering light was disorientating as I focused on it, even from my position as an operator. I’m certain any recipient of this dizzying light would either retreat or give you the time to flee the scene.

Finally, I activated the green light beam. It delivered a “pointer” green dot against the wall from across the room.

Multitude of Uses

One thing I determined upon testing out the JetBeam E26 Kunai Flashlight was that it was ultra-versatile. I would use it in both rural and urban environments. It would work well lighting up your trail back to your tent in the dark woods, as well as brightening stairways in a downtown parking garage.

I know it would make a great addition to your bugout bag or your vehicle emergency kit. It can also be your go-to flashlight when an unexpected power outage hits. It’s compact enough to fit into a woman’s purse, a teenager’s school bag, or an office briefcase with ease.

Final Grade

I have to say, I went from skeptic to believer in this flashlight as soon as I clicked the power button to “on.” The light, which is the meat and potatoes of any flashlight, scored big with both its power and beam intensity levels. If I had any constructive criticism for the E26, it would be that I would personally prefer a red distress light addition over the included green pointer version.

A red light typically indicates the need for rescue and might come in handy for emergency situations. The green pointer light felt out of place among its other, more emergency-centric functions. However, that is by no means a deal breaker, not even remotely close. This flashlight needs to be in your possession today. Great things do come in small packages, and the JetBeam E26 Kunai Flashlight is excellent proof of that.

Springfield Armory Adds SAINT Victor 9mm Pistol

By
Tim Stetzer
-

Springfield Armory just released a new version of their SAINT Victor 9mm pistol. The new one features an 8.5-inch barrel as opposed to the original 5.5-inch version. Let’s take a look at the features and see what Springfield is offering with their latest large-format pistol.

The SAINT Victor 9mm Pistol with 8.5″ Barrel

5.5 is certainly compact, but it’s not much more barrel than many 9mm service pistols. For folks who want a little more velocity boost, Springfield has come out with the larger SAINT Victor. It’s based upon the familiar AR platform and features a free-floated handguard with a full-length Picatinny rail and a SA Muzzle Drum.

The Victor series uses a simple and reliable direct blowback system. While it’s become vogue to run 9mm PCCs off of Glock mags, the SAINT Victor uses Colt-pattern SMG magazines. It comes with one 32-round mag. It uses a B5 Systems pistol grip, a SB Tactical SB-A3 brace, and a barricade stop on the handguard.

8.5 inches is a nice length for a 9mm PCC or large format pistol. It gives a decent boost over a standard pistol but still makes for a compact platform with good maneuverability.

I like that Springfield is using the Colt-pattern SMG mags on the Victor, too. While there is nothing wrong with Glock mags, the Colt mags were made for subgun use. I think they do well in a PCC like this. Glock mags make sense for folks invested in the Glock platform, but if you aren’t, you may as well use a dedicated SMG mag. Springfield sells 10 and 32-round magazines, but you can also get 20-round mags aftermarket.

The Saint Victor 8.5 comes with a padded rifle case and has an MSRP of $1,099.

SAINT Victor 8.5 Specs

Caliber9mm
ColorBlack
Barrel8.5″ CMV, Melonite®, 1:10
Upper ReceiverForged 7075 T6 Aluminum, Type III Hardcoat Anodized
Lower ReceiverForged 7075 T6 Aluminum, Type III Hardcoat Anodized, Accu-Tite™ Tension System
Bolt Carrier Group9mm Blowback
HandguardAluminum Free Float w/ SA Locking Tabs, M-Lok
Pistol BraceSB Tactical SBA3
TriggerNickel Boron Coated Flat
Muzzle DeviceSA Muzzle Drum
Receiver Extension3-Position Adjustable
Receiver End PlateQD
Charging HandleStandard
Safety Switch45-degree Short-Throw Ambidextrous
Trigger GuardB5 Systems, Polymer
GripB5 Systems Type 23 P-Grip
Magazines(1) 32-Round
Weight6 lbs 2 oz
Length23″ – 25.5″
MSRP$1,099

EDC Pens: Pocket-Sized Precision with Purpose

By
Reuben Bolieu
-
(Big Idea Design Photo) The Base Line Bolt Action Pen from Big Idea Design expertly marries rugged practicality with a sleek design that even your stylish friend would approve of.

When it comes to Everyday Carry (EDC) items, people often overlook the humble pen. However, they deserve recognition as both functional tools and stylish accessories. EDC pens cater to everyone, from busy professionals needing a reliable writing instrument to the average person who likes to keep track of their notes and lists. They are also for outdoor adventurers who require durable, all-weather options. 

Pocket-Sized Precision EDC Pens

Opting for an EDC pen over a standard Bic is like choosing a fine watch over a stopwatch. It reflects a personal touch and a desire for quality. Each pen tells a story. Whether it’s the precise click of the Base Line Bolt Action Pen, the rugged reliability of the Rite in the Rain All-Weather Pen, the classic elegance of the Parker Jotter, or the out-of-this-world functionality of the Fisher Space Pen.

In essence, carrying an EDC pen suggests that you value craftsmanship and creativity in your everyday tools. So why settle for ordinary when you can make a statement with every word you write? These are four picks for the common EDC fan or the more extravagant jotter.

Big Idea Design Base Line Bolt Action Pen

You’ll appreciate how the Base Line Bolt Action Pen from Big Idea Design strikes that rare balance between rugged utility and clean design. Machined entirely from solid metal—titanium, brass, or copper—it ditches plastic. It delivers a writing instrument that feels more like gear than stationery. The bolt-action mechanism offers smooth actuation and firm lock-up. This makes it both functional and fun to fidget with. It’s one of those EDC items that gets better with use.

This pen accepts Parker-style refills. It ships with a Schmidt P900 ballpoint that glides smoothly across the page. The deep carry clip keeps it sleek in the pocket and reverses for left-hand carry without fuss. Whether you’re jotting down campsite coordinates or signing off a gear review, it stands up to heavy use. Furthermore, it looks sharp doing it.

(Big Idea Design Photo) The Base Line Bolt Action Pen from Big Idea Design expertly marries rugged practicality with a sleek design that even your stylish friend would approve of.

Big Idea Design backs it with a lifetime warranty—no red tape, just solid support. For added character, you can add a leather sleeve or replace the clip with a titanium Damascus upgrade. Either way, it’s an EDC pen you carry with purpose.

MSRP: $65

Rite in the Rain All-Weather EDC Pen

If your gear philosophy leans toward “function over frills,” the Rite in the Rain All-Weather EDC Pen deserves a spot in your pocket. This compact Pokka-style pen writes through water, grease, and mud. It withstands the kind of conditions that would send most ballpoints running for cover. Whether you’re scribbling in a downpour or jotting notes upside down in sub-zero temps, its pressurized cartridge keeps the ink flowing. It does this without skipping or smearing.

The Rite in the Rain All-Weather EDC Pen deserves a spot in your pocket, ready to jot down notes in water, grease, and mud. It tackles harsh conditions that would send most ballpoints running!

The pen’s tough plastic barrel shrugs off abuse from toolboxes, backpacks, and glove compartments. It’s reversible cap snaps onto the back to extend the pen to a comfortable writing length. It’s innovative, simple, and effective. At just over 3 inches closed and 5.25 inches open, it’s small enough to disappear into your kit. Yet it is substantial enough to feel like a real writing instrument.

Pair it with a Rite in the Rain notebook. I did years ago, and I’ve got a field-ready combo that laughs in the face of bad weather. It’s not flashy, but it’s reliable—and in the world of EDC, that’s what counts.

MSRP: $21.95

Parker Jotter EDC Pen

A newer one to me, I’ve owned it for about seven months, and it’s a real head turner. The Parker Jotter is a true classic—an everyday pen with over 60 years of street cred. Known for its signature “click” and streamlined silhouette, it’s the kind of writing tool that feels familiar yet refined. Whether you’re jotting quick notes or signing off with flair, the Parker Jotter delivers a smooth, consistent writing experience. This is thanks to its Quinkflow ballpoint refill.

Its stainless steel barrel and arrowhead clip give it a timeless look. Meanwhile, the variety of finishes—from Waterloo Blue to Victoria Violet—let you match your pen to your personality. The retractable design offers practicality and convenience. Additionally, the refillable ink system enables long-term use.

The Parker Jotter is a classic—an everyday pen with over 60 years of cred. Its signature “click” and sleek design make it a familiar favorite with a dash of sophistication.

If you’re after a pen that blends heritage with utility, the Jotter is hard to beat.

MSRP: $10 to $25

Fisher Space Pen Bullet Pen

Possibly my longest-running EDC Pen, this gem has been with me on countless travel trips. The Fisher Space Bullet Pen is a legend in the EDC world—and for good reason. Initially designed in 1948 by Paul Fisher, this sleek, compact pen has written its way into space missions. It is also in museum collections and countless pockets.

Its pressurized ink cartridge allows it to write in zero gravity, underwater, upside down, and in extreme temperatures ranging from -30°F to 250°F. That’s not marketing fluff—it’s NASA-tested performance.

At just 3.75 inches, the Bullet Pen is a minimalist’s dream. Twist it open, and you’ll find a full-sized, well-balanced writing tool that’s impressively substantial yet delightfully compact!

Closed, the Bullet Pen measures just 3.75 inches. This makes it ideal for minimalist carry. Open it up and you’ve got a full-sized, well-balanced writing instrument. It feels substantial without being bulky. The all-metal construction—typically brass with finishes like matte black, chrome, or titanium nitride—adds durability and a touch of industrial elegance.

Whether you’re signing off on gear orders or jotting field notes in a rainstorm, the Bullet Pen delivers reliability with style.

MSRP: Matte Black $30-$34

CCRKBA Points Out Another Inevitable Result Of So-Called ‘Gun-Free’ Zones

By
Mark Chesnut
-

Most GAT Daily readers know that so-called “gun-free” zones are a fallacy invented by gun-ban advocates to make it seem like it’s possible to create a safe place free of violent criminal activity. What such zones really are, however, are places where criminals continue to possess and use whatever kinds of weapons they want, while lawful gun owners are forced to leave their guns behind to enter such zones, making them easy targets for attack.

Unintended Consequences of “Gun-Free” Zones

That brings us to a recent report from the Council on Criminal Justice lamenting the fact that firearms thefts from parked cars jumped dramatically over the period 2018 to 2022.

“The rate of guns reported stolen from motor vehicles increased by 31% over the period, while the rate of guns reported stolen during residential and commercial burglaries dropped by 40%,” the report stated. “Rates of gun thefts from vehicles were highest and rose the most steeply in the most rural areas.”

CCRKBA’s Take

Now, one gun-rights group, the Citizens Committee for the Right to Keep and Bear Arms (CCRKBA), is pointing out what gun-ban advocates won’t ever tell you. Armed citizens having to leave their guns in the car to enter so-called “gun-free” zones, created by those same anti-gun advocates, is a big part of the problem.

“While the report raises alarms about a 31 percent increase of gun thefts from vehicles, it fails to mention a major reason people must leave their firearms in their cars, and that’s the proliferation of ‘gun-free zones’ and ‘sensitive areas,’ all promoted by the same social justice extremists who complain about guns falling into the wrong hands,” Alan Gottlieb, CCRKBA chairman, said in a news release about the report.

“A legally-owned firearm is safest when it is in the possession of its owner. Armed private citizens should never be expected to leave their firearms just to have lunch, attend a meeting or public hearing, handle personal business in a government building, enter churches, synagogues or mosques, or merely to go shopping at a mall or market.”

As Gottlieb pointed out, mass shootings occur more frequently in so-called “gun-free” zones.

“Establishing laws that disarm honest citizens while creating risk-free environments for criminals and crazy people is not simply ineffective, it’s insane,” Gottlieb said.

“No law should ever be allowed to force law-abiding citizens to leave their means of self-defense locked in an automobile. If you want to prevent gun thefts from parking lots and garages, don’t make things easier for thieves. If you want to deter mass shootings in public places, make it possible for people to fight back.”

He concluded, “If you want to keep guns out of the wrong hands, then allow those guns to be in the right hands.”

Campfire Cooking: Four Reliable Cook Pots

By
Reuben Bolieu
-
Four Reliable Cook Pots for survival, camping, and bushcraft!

Whether you’re boiling water for freeze-dried meals or simmering stew over a fire, these four reliable cook pots each bring something unique to the camp table. Each one reflects a different philosophy—ultralight minimalism, rugged reliability, or DIY ingenuity.

Meet Your Cook Pots

Überleben Titanium Kessel

A minimalist’s dream with a 1.1L capacity, ultralight titanium build (7.4 oz), steam-vented lid, and a natural hardwood grab handle. It’s equally at home on a gas stove or swinging over a fire, and the waxed canvas pouch doubles as a tinder bag—Bushcraft-ready with fire-friendly design and minimalist efficiency. 

This cook pot is called the Kessel Kettle and Bushpot. I’ve noticed that people often refer to wider, shorter cooking pots as a kettle. A bit different from the kettles we put on the stovetop to heat water. However, in the outdoor community, this type (and the MSR Titan Kettle) is commonly referred to as a kettle. I’ve used the Überleben Stainless Steel Kessel for seven years on several trips, including a jungle trip in the Philippines. 

The Überleben Titanium Kettle is a 1.1L minimalist’s gem, weighing only 7.4 oz, featuring a steam-vented lid and a hardwood handle. Perfect for outdoor brews!

The wooden lid lifter is an excellent design idea, as is the handle that hovers over the kettle, preventing excessive heat from transferring to it. This is the most versatile of the four reliable cook pots. I can hang it, set it on a stove, or place it directly in the coals. Bravo, Überleben!

Longest Running Pot: MSR Titan Kettle

Constructed of ultralight titanium (4.4–5.4 oz, depending on size), it is available in 900mL and 1400mL versions. Features include silicone-coated folding handles, a snug-fit lid with a hangable hook, and internal volume markings. Nests perfectly with stoves and fuel canisters for a compact setup. Ultralight, precise, and ideal for solo or duo backpacking with efficient boil times.

This cook pot has been my go-to for ages, racking up more dirt time on camping trips, survival adventures, and high-altitude hikes than the other four reliable pots combined.

I’ve had this cook pot the longest. I’ve spent the most dirt time with it camping over the other four reliable cook pots, on survival trips, and backpacking at high altitudes. It has handles for convenience, but they get super hot in a campfire. I recommend leather gloves when using this kettle. I modified mine and added two holes to include a wire bail to hang it over fire and coals. A super versatile, ultralight kettle! 

The Super Ultralight: Backpackers Foster’s Beer Can Cook Pot

The DIY ultralight classic. Typically made from a 750mL Foster’s beer can, it isn’t sturdy, but beloved by ounce-counters and MYOG (Make Your Own Gear) enthusiasts.

This has been my go-to water boiler since 2015. I made two using a Good Day Safe Can Opener. It removes the top, leaving no sharp edges. Any soda or bean can will work. Care needs to be considered when packing it for a camp trip. Thousands of long-distance backpackers can’t deny the impressive weight of 1 ounce. Ultralight MYOG classic, efficient but delicate, and best for short trips.

Introducing the DIY ultralight classic—fashioned from a 750mL Foster’s beer can. It may lack sturdiness, but it’s a hit with ounce-counters and DIY gear lovers!

Old Reliable Pot: Stanley Stainless Steel Two-Cup Set

This is a rugged and budget-friendly cooking set. It includes a 24 oz stainless steel pot with a locking handle and two insulated 10 oz cups. Great for boiling water or heating soup, and the vented lid doubles as a strainer. At ~14 oz, it’s heavier but nearly indestructible. Budget-friendly, rugged, and ideal for beginners or bushcraft with a buddy.

My friend Jason Salyer swears by this cook pot over most things out there. We did a multi-day trip in Colorado, and this was his boiling pot, food, bowl, and coffee cup! This is a man who knows his way around adventure travel gear!

Stanley Stainless Steel Two-Cup Set: Durable and budget-friendly, it includes a 24 oz pot, two insulated cups, and a vented lid that doubles as a strainer. Perfect for camping or outdoor cooking!

Thoughts on Four Reliable Cook Pots

Every pot tells a story of its own! Überleben champions the art of craftsmanship with its fire-friendly designs, perfect for those who appreciate the classics. MSR, on the other hand, plays the precision game, providing ultralight gear for hikers who chase top-notch performance. Then there’s Foster’s, the minimalist’s dream, celebrating simplicity and adaptability like a true DIY hero. And let’s not forget Stanley—built like a tank, it’s the go-to for anyone seeking rugged reliability on their outdoor escapades!

The Empress – Another Unique Offering from Wingard Wearables

By
Jim Cobb
-
Empress - lead image

We’ve covered a couple of tools from Wingard Wearables before, including the Quill and the MicroDickPick. The Empress ups the ante a bit more.

The Wingard Wearables Empress is spontoon tomahawk. This tomahawk design has the express purpose of causing damage, typically in self-defense. While this tool could take big pieces of wood and turn them into smaller pieces, the reality is that doing so is a secondary purpose of the Empress.

The Wingard Wearables Empress

The Empress features a head that is cast from high-strength, rust-proof, silicon bronze. The talon side is about 2.25 inches long and is hooked and slightly curved to follow your body contour if you carry it at your waist. The underside edge is sharpened. The other side, called the primary piercing blade, is about 2.0 inches long and has a sharp edge, but is smooth for each extraction from the target.

Empress head

The handle is hickory and runs about 13 inches long. It’s scarred and charred for weatherproofing as well as to provide a secure grip. Hickory wood wedges secure the head to the handle. There is also some sort of adhesive filling in the space between head and handle.

My Empress weighs 8.2 ounces. Each one is hand-crafted and unique. There will be slight variations in length, weight, and appearance. Each one is a custom job.

It comes equipped with a quick-release Kydex carry system. There are clips that allow you to attach the Empress to your pack or in another location. Otherwise, you can just slip it into your waistband.

Empress Performance

Having gained some experience with other offerings from Wingard Wearables, I was eager to check out the Empress. I have a few tomahawks, including one modeled after the LaGana Tactical Tomahawk that saw service in Vietnam. But the spontoon design was new to me.

I considered heading down to the local disreputable drinking establishment to see if I could aggravate someone enough to swing at me, so I could then deploy the Empress and see how well it would work. But I don’t earn enough here to pay the bail and lawyer fees for something like that.

Instead, I went out to the backyard and beat the hell out of some logs and what not. The Empress is very fast in hand. It’s long enough to really crank up the leverage when you’re swinging on something, but still short enough to be easy to control with one hand.

The handle design is amazing. At the very end, there’s a spot where the handle bulges out a touch. This serves to keep your hand from sliding off when you swing. The very tip of the handle as a sharp wedge shape, which is perfect for use as an impact weapon.

The primary piercing blade drives deep into the target but it is remarkably easy to remove. Just a quick jerking motion loosened it each time. The hook is intended more for catching and pulling, rather than piercing. That said, it’s plenty sharp enough to do serious damage. I did notice that the black finish started to wear off the primary blade after a while. I kind of like the look of it, though, with some of the bronze exposed.

All in all, the Empress is definitely a unique option for an EDC defense weapon. It’s also loads of fun.

The Empress is available now from Wingard Wearables with an MSRP of $280.

My $80 Spanish Smith: A Fickle Twist of Fate

By
Travis Pike
-

Fate’s a fickle creature. Sometimes, the same day you get a parking ticket from an automated system is the same day you find an $80 Spanish copy of a S&W hand ejector. You might think, “Hey, save that $80 for the ticket,” but fate is fickle. This Spanish Smith combined a lot of things I like.

A Spanish Smith?

First, it was cheap. Second, I like Spanish handguns. Third, it fires the .32 S&W Long. Those are three things I enjoy immensely. To hell with that parking ticket, I wanted this gun. The proprietor of this particular gun store explained he’d had the gun forever, and no one wanted a Spanish .32 S&W Long.

Clearly, his normal customers lacked refined taste. Four twenty-dollar bills later, I had my Spanish Smith and immediately began my research.

A Spanish Smith and a Familiar Story

The Spanish handgun industry is built on other people’s ideas. Spanish handgun companies would routinely copy other designs, but would also make some slight changes here and there. For example, with their 1911 clones, they’d ditch the grip safeties, and their SIG clones featured a heel magazine release. When they did make something new, it was just mixing and mashing designs together.

I always thought that this started with the Ruby pistols. The Ruby pistols were copies of the Colt 1903 Pocket Hammerless and were adopted by the French during WWI to supplement their handgun needs. The Spanish also supplied the French with revolvers, guns known as Spanish ’92s, which chambered the 8mm Lebel.

The Spanish also supplied guns to the British in .455 Webley. These were all various Smith & Wesson clones. My Spanish Smith wasn’t some WWI vintage, but a gun made by the same companies that were producing these various guns for the French and British forces.

My particular model is a Trocaola Aranzabal & Co Model 1892 .32 Cal Revolver. Trocaola Aranzabal & Co. produced a wide variety of guns, focusing on revolvers of various calibers. This Spanish Smith is a copy of the S&W Second Model Hand Ejector .32. The copy is nearly perfect; as the owner of three other Hand Ejectors, it’s a close copy.

In fact, that’s what drew my attention to the gun. I thought it was an S&W Hand Ejector. Even the company’s marking clearly imitates the S&W trademark logo. It’s not an S&W, but it is quite close.

At the Range With The Spanish Smith

While the Trocaola Aranzabal & Co. 1892 .32 looks and even feels like an S&W Hand Ejector, I was curious if it would shoot like one. The first major difference between the two was the trigger. The trigger on the Spanish variant was much heavier in double action, but fine in single action. The heavy part of the pull can tire your hand out quite a bit.

Tugging the hammer into single action also takes more force than I’d expect. It’s hefty, and you’ll appreciate the thumb jimping on the hammer. It’s interesting, and I will allow for the possibility that this gun was beaten and abused, and not all Spanish Smith clones are this rough to handle.

The hefty double-action trigger and the small grip don’t do wonders for accuracy. It’s tough to make a tight group and maintain a good grip when the trigger pull is so long and heavy. The single action cleans things up and helps create tight groups. The .32 S&W Long gives you awesome accuracy, and that shows here.

The long six-inch barrel helps, too, but the turn-of-the-century sights leave a bit to be desired. It’s an old gun, so you get what you get. The little .32 S&W Long has hardly any recoil, and it’s super pleasant to shoot. Like any .32 S&W Long, it’s a joy to shoot. I don’t baby my Smiths, but I’m more likely to shoot, use, and abuse my Spanish Smith clone than the other guns.

I Got $80 On It

I’ve already had $80 worth of fun with this gun. It might sound silly, but I have some devious desires with this gun. Fitz made his fame with the Fitz Specials from big-bore revolvers. Hear me out, what if I have this .32 S&W Long “Fitz-specialized”? Am I crazy? It doesn’t have any historic value, and I think it would be a fascinating and fun gun.

Regardless, eighty bucks was nothing for this old gun, and if you find one that cheap, I can’t help but advise you to buy it and enjoy it.

EDC and Field Journaling: A Philosophy of Preparedness

By
Reuben Bolieu
-
The Lochby Pocket Journal is durable and designed for everyday use. It comes with a 3.5" x 5.5" dot grid refill made from fountain pen-friendly Tomoe River 68gsm paper, perfect for notes and sketches on the go.

EDC and journaling both reflect intentionality, turning you from a passive observer to an active participant. These two notebooks are perfect for EDC and Field Journaling, fostering preparedness and observation, while encouraging a quiet wisdom.

EDC Notebooks for Journaling in the Field

Everyday Carry (EDC)

EDC goes beyond pocket contents—it’s a personal system of readiness and identity, central to EDC and Field Journaling practices. Carried by everyone from firefighters to founders, hikers to handypersons, EDC gear reflects a commitment to staying capable in unpredictable moments.

People who embrace EDC do so because they want control, utility, and a sense of calm amid chaos. That trusty flashlight, dependable knife, or compact pen serves as a handheld solution waiting for deployment. EDC is ritual meets resilience.

Field Journaling

Field journaling is the practice of turning fleeting thoughts into lasting records. Naturalists, adventurers, tradespeople, and commuters alike keep notes on the fly—ideal for EDC and Field Journaling contexts—because insight rarely waits for ideal conditions. Capturing Clarity in the Wild! 

Whether recording gear performance, sketching terrain, or jotting poetic fragments in passing, field journaling captures clarity in real time. It’s about observing with intent and anchoring memory with ink. In a distracted world, EDC and Field Journaling bring focus and purpose to the moment.

What Gets Captured

Field notes are concise, purposeful snapshots of experience, temperature logs, gear impressions, trail conditions, scent breakdowns, or wildlife sightings. Reminders and prompts keep the mind sharp, from cryptic to-do lists to inspired fragments meant for future exploration. Documentation tends to be more deliberate—testing tools, drafting designs, tracking mileage, or noting skill development. All these components highlight the essence of EDC and Field Journaling, stitched together page by page.

The Lochby Pocket Journal is durable and designed for everyday use. It comes with a 3.5″ x 5.5″ dot grid refill made from fountain pen-friendly Tomoe River 68gsm paper, perfect for notes and sketches on the go.

Lochby Pocket Journal 

Small in size, big on purpose. Crafted from rugged, water-resistant waxed canvas and sealed with a smooth YKK zipper, the Lochby Pocket Journal is built for everyday carry and built to last. It holds a 3.5″ x 5.5″ dot grid refill made with fountain pen–friendly Tomoe River 68gsm paper—perfect for jotting down thoughts, sketches, or field notes on the fly.

Interior and exterior pockets keep cards, pens, and extras organized, while its slim profile slips easily into your back pocket or bag. Whether you’re traveling, planning, or just trying to remember where you parked, this journal’s got your back, ideal for those focused on EDC and Field Journaling.

MSRP: $49

The author has used the Lochby Pocket Journal for travel, meetings, and trade shows. In the outer pockets, there’s room for a Parker Pen, a mini pocket strop, and a Victorinox Bantam.

Pimp It Out

I’ve used this little gem for approximately six months and counting. A quick look online, and you will see all the cool mods people do with their Lochby gear. I’ve used it on travel trips, pub meetings (where it shines), and trade shows. It always gets attention and sparks a conversation.

I usually have a Parker Pen, mini pocket strop, and Victorinox Bantam in the outer pockets. I set up the inside to be a place to store cash, business cards, and credit cards. In travel mode, the EDC and Field Journaling notebook fits a passport with room to spare. Take a look at them and think—what would I do with a Lochby?

Jou Fuu 

A little less known than Lochby is Jou Fuu Leather. The one-man shop of Bud, a US Army Airborne vet and self-professed knife enthusiast operating out of northwest Atlanta. Known for rugged, minimalist sheaths tailored to bushcraft-style fixed blades, his work blends practical design with clean execution.

Bud uses 6–7 oz vegetable-tanned Belgian leather, dyed with Fiebings Oil Dye and stitched with Ritzo Tiger Thread—materials chosen for durability and timeless function.

The Jou Fuu Field Book-style notepad provides ample organizational capability with two card slots and two larger pocket sleeves.

Jou Fuu’s ISP sheath is a favorite in the EDC community for its discreet carry and quick access. Compact and functional, it’s crafted by Bud, often using blades from his collection for a precise fit.

Whether you choose to stay ready or simply appreciate handmade gear that tells a story, Jou Fuu Leather delivers craftsmanship that earns its spot in your pocket, embodying the spirit of EDC and Field Journaling enthusiasts.

Field Book/Wallet for Journaling

Built from high-quality, ultra-durable utility leather—because pretty doesn’t always mean practical. It may not be buttery-soft like those imported goat-hide showpieces, but Jou Fuu’s will still be standing long after theirs call it quits. Designed for rugged use, it includes one Field Book–style notepad and offers plenty of organizational muscle with two card slots and two larger pocket sleeves.

Sized to fit standard 3.5″ x 5.5″ Field Book inserts, this wallet also moonlights as a passport carrier when you ditch the pad. Challenging, straightforward, and made to last—that’s Jou Fuu’s way, perfect for EDC and Field Journaling enthusiasts.

MSRP: $80

This Field Book-style notepad features two card slots and two larger pockets for organization. It fits standard 3.5″ x 5.5″ inserts and can double as a passport holder when the pad is removed.

Bud embodies the everyday carry ethos and stays connected with the community through Instagram and BladeForums, offering limited customs and quick drops, often interacting with the EDC and Field Journaling community.

EDC and Field Journaling: Summary

In a chaotic world, mastering EDC and field journaling is your ticket to being a modern-day MacGyver. So, embrace it, grab your favorite notebook, jot down adventures, and spark some curious glances at your next pub meet. Stay prepared, stay witty, and let the ink flow!

Taurus Unveils the 7 Shot Taurus 817

By
Tim Stetzer
-

Taurus just dropped another new double-action wheelgun, and this one is a 7-shooter. The Taurus 817 is a compact carry gun chambered for .38 Special +P rounds. If you’re a wheelgun fan, now’s the chance to up your carry capacity in an EDC-sized package.

The Taurus 817

The Taurus 817 features stainless steel construction and comes with a discrete matte finish. I remember the days when Taurus stainless revolvers all had high polish finishes. I was never a fan, so it’s nice to see the low-profile, practical finish on the 817 and other recent releases. The 817 uses a compact grip frame and is fitted with a rubber grip interchangeable with the Judge/Tracker series revolvers.

The high-cap .38 features a 2-inch barrel. It has a notch rear sight integral to the top strap, mated with a removable black front sight. Taurus lists it as a medium-sized frame, so it should use K or L frame-sized holsters. Overall length of the Taurus 817 is 7 inches, and height is 4.78 inches. Weight is 30 ounces unloaded. So, it’s not subcompact size or weight, but it should still conceal pretty well.

The medium frame and 30-ounce weight should actually make it pretty pleasant to shoot, too. Especially when compared to some of the ultra-light aluminum or titanium snub-nosed revolvers.

If you’re a revolver fan, the 817 looks like a promising carry piece. It has great capacity for a revolver. Its size and weight are a good compromise in carryability and shootability. The all-stainless construction should hold up well to daily carry, too. MSRP on the Taurus 817 is $648.99, and it looks like they’re already available at some online dealers.

Key Features of the Taurus 817

Caliber38 SPECIAL +P
Capacity7 Rounds
Front SightRemovable Blade
Rear SightFixed
Action TypeDA/SA
Frame SizeMedium
Barrel Length2.00 Inches
Twist Rate1:16in-RH
Grooves6
Length7.00 Inches
Height4.78 Inches
Width1.53 Inches
Weight30.00 Ounces (Unloaded)
Frame MaterialStainless Steel
Frame FinishMatte Stainless
Cylinder MaterialStainless Steel
Cylinder FinishMatte Stainless
Barrel MaterialStainless Steel
Barrel FinishMatte Stainless
MSRP$648.99

Anti-Gun States Sue To Keep Forced Reset Triggers From Being Returned

By
Mark Chesnut
-

Sixteen state governments are suing to block the returns of forced reset triggers (FRTs) to their owners that the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) confiscated while former ATF head Steve Dettelbach was in charge of the agency.

Lawsuits Over Forced Reset Triggers

Named in the lawsuit by the anti-gun states were:

  • National Association for Gun Rights (NAGR)
  • Texas Gun Rights (TGR)
  • Attorney General Pam Bondi
  • Department of Justice (DOJ)
  • Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF)
  • ATF Acting Director Daniel P. Driscol
  • Rare Breed Triggers
  • Named plaintiffs in NAGR v. Garland.

At issue is a recent agreement entered into by the AFT and the Department of Justice (DOJ). In the agreement, the government admitted that FRTs are not machine guns and agreed to return all confiscated triggers to their original owners.

In addition to returning all triggers to their owners, the government dropped its appeal to the 5th Circuit Court of Appeals over its loss in District Court. Likewise, it would drop all other FRT lawsuits throughout the nation.

Anti-Gunners On The Offense

In the case, filed on June 9, the states, which included New Jersey, Maryland, California, Illinois, and others, say:

“This epidemic of gun violence has been fueled in recent years by the growing use of machinegun conversion devices (MCDs), which are used to turn semi-automatic firearms into fully automatic machineguns that can unleash massive carnage in mere seconds,” the complaint states.

“One such MCD—the forced reset trigger, or FRT—has become especially popular, including among individuals who are prohibited from possessing any firearms under federal law. At least 100,000 FRTs have been sold throughout the country and have made their way into every State, even those that independently ban such devices under their state laws.”

Additionally, the complaint said of the ATF’s decision to return the triggers:

“This reckless decision will not only endanger the public—putting people nationwide at greater risk of deadly violence—but is contrary to federal law. ATF’s longstanding position is that federal firearms laws proscribe the distribution and possession of devices like the FRT because they convert firearms into machineguns that can fire hundreds of uninterrupted rounds of ammunition with a single pull of the trigger. Even now, ATF has not renounced that view. Instead, bowing to political pressure, it has decided to simply ignore it.”

Of course, primary plaintiff NAGR had a strong opinion about the lawsuit, saying the states had overstepped their bounds.

“A federal court already ruled the government unlawfully seized thousands of legal triggers from law-abiding Americans—a decision that the ATF now acknowledges and accepts,” said Hannah Hill, NAGR vice president. “These states lack standing to file this lawsuit, and they know it. This suit is just reckless political lawfare.”

The lawsuit was filed in the United States District Court for the District of Maryland.

Pocketbook Friendly Camp Comfort: Budget Tools for Camp

By
Reuben Bolieu
-
Light is right when it comes to these Budget Tools for Camp!

There are plenty of tools needed for a successful camp trip and camping experience. Budget tools for camp means affordable, not low-quality, cheap tools. There’s a huge difference, and it’s best not to confuse them. 

You don’t need to break the bank to have quality, reliable tools for camping, bushcrafting, and developing skills! You can find excellent budget-friendly tools that enhance your camp experience.

Tools for Camp on a Budget

The Budget Fixed Blade 

While dozens of fixed-blade knives are available, a few stand out. A reliable fixed-blade knife is essential in any serious kit and forms a core part of the tools for budget camping. It serves as a straightforward, ready-for-anything tool built with grit and backbone. When the pressure’s on, a fixed blade provides dependability. There’s no hinge to fail; solid steel runs from tip to tang, ready for action, making it a fundamental part of budget camping toolkits.

It easily handles tasks like splitting kindling, digging, slicing cordage, and prying open lids. Those jobs would make a folding knife sweat nervously. Deployment is instant. Just grab and go—there’s no flick or fumble involved. It’s like a sheepdog, always alert and ready.

Cleaning is straightforward after use. Once you clean fish or dress game, there’s no mystery gunk stuck in the pivot. You also gain more blade and handle, allowing for better leverage and control. This advantage is crucial for both fine work and heavy pressure.

Now, let’s explore two blades that deliver excellent performance without breaking the bank. First, consider the MORAKNIV Basic, a Swedish workhorse with minimalist flair. It features a high-friction polymer grip and a 3.6-inch carbon or stainless steel blade. 

Three ultra-light and affordable Morakniv Knives!

This knife excels at carving, food prep, and bush chores. The best part? It typically costs around $10–$14, making it a fantastic deal in the knife world.

Next, check out the Cold Steel Pendleton Lite Hunter. This knife features a sturdy drop-point blade with sufficient belly for game preparation and various camp tasks. It features a comfortable grip and a durable design, all for under $20. This rugged performer punches well above its weight, offering an affordable way to beef up your camp toolkit.

Budget Wood Processing Tools for Camp

Two primary tools come to mind—the saw and the axe. Axes, hatchets, and tomahawks easily slide into this category. They chop and split wood, which is essential for maintaining shelter building, and fire building/maintenance. Meanwhile, a saw is more efficient, precise, and low-key! 

The Fiskars Retractable saw has been with me for years, and you couldn’t get any lighter or cheaper in its performance range. However, Fiskars replaced it with the Fiskars Xtract SW73 (Small). 

The Fiskars Xtract SW73 is a pocket-sized tree whisperer with a bite. It sports a 6.3-inch pull-cut blade that slides neatly into the handle when not in use—no sheath fuss, just safe storage. Despite its size, it tackles green wood up to 2.75 inches thick without breaking a sweat, making it ideal for pruning, trail cleanup, or campfire prep.

The SoftGrip handle adds comfort and control, while the finger guard keeps your digits where they belong. Lightweight at just 4.6 ounces, it’s perfect for one-handed use and hardly noticeable in your pack. With an easy street price around $35–$40, the SW73 proves that sharp, intelligent design doesn’t have to take a big bite out of your budget, aligning seamlessly with your budget camp gear.

Budget Chopping Tools for Camp

When it comes to chopping tools, you don’t need to spend big to swing smart. Tools like the Fiskars X7 Hatchet and Cold Steel Frontier Hawk prove that with a little elbow grease and a file, even modest blades can punch above their price point.

The Fiskars X7 is a compact powerhouse. With a 14-inch handle and a 1.4 lb head, this tool efficiently splits kindling and small logs. The FiberComp handle absorbs shock like a champ, and the low-friction blade coating keeps it from sticking in wood. It’s ready to work straight out of the package, and at around $35, it’s a steal that doesn’t feel cheap, making it an excellent addition to your camp tool budget.

Budget Tools that get it done.

Then there’s the Cold Steel Frontier Hawk, a tomahawk that arrives a bit rough around the edges—literally. But that’s part of the charm. With a 22-inch hickory handle and a 1055 carbon steel head, it’s a blank canvas for tinkerers. Sharpen the edge, sand the haft, maybe even blue the steel or wrap the grip. For about $30–$35, you get a tool and a project in one. These cost-effective tools make valuable additions to any camping budget.

Both tools are light on the wallet and heavy on potential. They may not be heirlooms out of the box, but with a bit of care and customization, they’ll earn their place by the fire. Want to dive into mod ideas or compare these to mid-tier choppers? I’ve got the kindling for that conversation.

Pocket Knife on a Budget

The Victorinox Waiter is a compact, versatile tool that combines practicality with affordability. Measuring just 3.3 inches closed and weighing 1.2 ounces, it easily fits in your pocket, offering a budget-friendly tool option for camping.

Its stainless steel blade handles fruit, cordage, and light whittling, while the combo tool opens bottles, cans, and drives flathead screws. It also includes a corkscrew, tweezers, and a toothpick for added convenience.

Victorinox Waiter in Travel mode with the author.

With a price range of $16–$23, the Waiter is ideal for camping, travel, or everyday use. Most come in classic Victorinox red, with occasional options in black, white, or blue. Small but effective, the Waiter gets the job done.

Like all the Budget Tools for Camp, look around and find what works for you. Mainly, have fun doing it!

The Shotgun Speed Drill: A Focus on Practical Performance

By
Travis Pike
-
(U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Daniel Childs)

The Shotgun Speed Drill comes from one of my favorite social media follows, That Shotgun Blog. Nate Parker, the creator of the blog, developed the drill, and I recently took it for a spin. Nate is a shotgun nerd, much like me, and he recognized that there aren’t a ton of shotgun drills out there. Handguns and rifles get piles and piles, but shotguns are left in the dark. The Shotgun Speed Drill focuses on the shotgun’s strengths and its capabilities.

Running the Shotgun Speed Drill

Shotguns are fast, hard-hitting weapons. Close-quarters combat is all about speed. Shotguns are close-quarters weapons that allow you to be fast and hit hard. While you do need to aim a shotgun, a substandard sight picture, crappy form, and bad trigger press are less likely to render your shot ineffective. Shotguns allow for a little more human error, and human error tends to be a speed issue.

The Shotgun Speed Drill focuses on shooting multiple targets quickly and accurately. You’ll get the most out of this drill using a pump-action shotgun. With a semi-auto, it’s fairly easy, so it might not be the challenge you’re looking for.

The Shotgun Speed Drill – Gear Needed

Here’s what we’ll need for the Shotgun Speed Drill:

  • Repeating Shotgun
  • Six Rounds of Ammo
  • Three Targets
  • Shot Timer

The targets need an 8-inch circle center. Nate suggests IDPA targets, but a B-8 works if you want to keep things simple. Each 8-inch circle should be about two feet apart, and the shooter stands five yards from the target.

Scoring is pass/fail. If your pellets leave the eight-inch circle, you lose. There isn’t a par-time, and Nate mentioned building a naked scoring system, but it’s not established yet. The shot timer can still provide invaluable data and allow you to constantly get better.

Shooting the Shotgun Speed Drill

Your targets are one, two, and three from left to right. Load your shotgun with four rounds. Have your other two rounds on hand for rapid reloads. You’ll also start in a true low ready, with your muzzle below the targets. Don’t half-ass it.

At the signal, aim and fire one round into target 1, one round into target 2, and two rounds into target 3. Now, immediately speed reload and fire another round into target 2. Speed reload again and drop your final round into target 1.

That’s it; it’s short, sweet, and fun. It’s also more challenging than it seems. You might find your ghost rings are slowing you down. It also makes you appreciate a red dot optic on your shotgun and tight-patterning ammo.

My Thoughts

I like the Shotgun Speed Drill a lot. It focuses on building the skills that make the shotgun such a decisive weapon. Being good at making hits at 25 yards is great, but the realistic focus of a shotgun should be on speed and pellet accountability. This drill focuses on that realistic use.

It also provides you with some reload practice and target transitions. Both are good skills to have with a shotgun. The Shotgun Speed Drill allows you to focus on a wide variety of shotgun techniques and skills with a mere six rounds fired. Who can hate that?

Give it a spin, and get out there and touch a little grass.

Coalcracker 10×10 Dutchware Tarp

By
Reuben Bolieu
-
Here’s the author’s home for 5 days in the Adirondacks. A lean-to is hard to beat in the summer heat.

When record heat strikes and is soon followed by thunderstorms, you need a reliable shelter. The Coalcracker 10×10 Dutchware Tarp to the rescue. It allowed for plenty of airflow and provided impressive coverage against the unpredictable weather of the mighty Adirondacks.

Coalcracker Tarps

For the last several years, I’ve been using the Coalcracker Bushcraft T6ZERO tarp. It has been featured here on GAT Daily and accompanied me on several adventures worldwide. 

The Coalcracker Tarp by Dutchware provides substantial coverage without added bulk. Built from lightweight yet rugged Xenon Sil 1.1 fabric, this 10’x10′ tarp offers 100 square feet of weather-resistant shelter in a compact 18-ounce package. Whether you’re stringing it up over a hammock or pitching it on the ground, it adapts to your setup with reinforced grosgrain tie-outs at the corners, ridgeline, and every two feet along the perimeter.

Dutchware and Coalcracker Bushcraft designed this tarp for versatility in the wild. The square footprint gives you endless configuration options—plow point, A-frame, lean-to, or diamond fly. That extra space pays off in camp: you can cook under cover, stash gear out of the rain, or ride out a storm without feeling boxed in. It’s not just a tarp—it’s a mobile roof for your backcountry basecamp.

Finished with grosgrain binding and subtle Coalcracker logos, the tarp strikes a balance between function and understated style. If you’re looking for a lightweight, packable shelter that punches above its weight, the Coalcracker Tarp is built to handle the elements and earn its place in your kit.

Stand Out Coalcracker Tarp Features

Coalcracker 10×10 Dutchware tarps feature a subdued color and multiple tie-out points for added versatility.
Premium FabricCrafted with Brown Xenon Sil 1.1, a silicone polyester fabric that’s lightweight, durable, and weather-resistant.
Custom DesignFeatures two 12″ Coalcracker Bushcraft logos printed on opposing corners, combining style with functionality.
Enhanced EdgingGrosgrain binding on all edges and ridge lines for added strength and durability.
Versatile Tie-Out LoopsIncludes grosgrain loops on four corner tie-outs, two ridgeline connection points, and additional loops every 2 feet along the perimeter for versatile configurations.
Weight18 ounces
Coverage Area100 square feet
MSRP$135
The middle tie-out on the Coalcracker 10×10 Dutchware Tarp was extremely necessary for added headroom and sitting up comfortably in camp.

Who’s DUTCHWARE

Dutchware creates hammock gear and DIY backpacking components for outdoor enthusiasts. With a focus on strength, simplicity, and modular performance, they offer innovative products, such as the Chameleon Hammock system and titanium hardware. Their 10×10 tarp, made from advanced materials like Xenon SilPoly or Dyneema® Composite Fabric, is perfect for various users and conditions, featuring reinforced tie-outs and durable construction for reliable shelter. They are making this stellar tarp for Coalcracker Bushcraft. 

The Shangri-La Camp Tarp

I’ve never used a tarp this large, but it was exactly what this trip required. For 5 days, I was on an epic adventure in the remote Adirondacks. We had all types of weather. Heat, wind, thunderstorms, and Autumn-like cold had us scrambling for beanies and fleece tops. Did I mention we had rain? 

The author added two forked branches to enhance water shedding capabilities.

I opted for the trusty lean-to configuration and planned to adjust it throughout the week. However, I kept it just as it was, except I added two forked sticks on the middle side pull-out tabs for added water shedding. It was rude and crude, but it worked. The top center pull-out loop was the pinnacle for this setup. 

A large tarp can cover one to two people, plus their gear. Or, a trusty dog with a bed. If it’s pitched high, we could have put chairs under there. 

Coalcracker Dutchware Tarp Times Two

That’s right—we had two of these camp gems on this trip. After the record-breaking heat, we got thunder showers. Two guys headed for a tarp hanging over a hammock, and two hunkered down under my tarp. 

Eventually, our camp had two Coalcracker 10×10 Dutchware Tarps. Talk about luxury in the woods.

Lt. Mike had his Coalcracker 10×10 Dutchware Tarp, which we decided to put up in camp for the days of intermittent rain and when the bottom dropped out. We kept firewood, kindling, and tinder under there, too. We were only a couple of steps from the campfire, which added to the already jovial and good spirits of camp life!

Coalcracker 10×10 Dutchware Tarp Summary

Awesome tarp! It’s the larger version of the T6ZERO and barely steps over that one-pound range. Try finding a tarp this size for that weight. This will make the perfect hammock tarp as well as a foul-weather tarp or a two-person tarp in a lean-to configuration! 

Christopher Miner Spencer: The Unsung Father of Repeating Long Guns

By
Travis Pike
-

When it comes to American firearms inventors and engineers, we have plenty who have become famous and well-known, like John Browning. Others are only known to gun nerds, like John Pedersen. Then we have a few that never got the credit they deserved. Christopher Miner Spencer is one such gun designer. He is the father of repeating long guns, and while he only designed two notable firearms, both were major inventions that changed the world of firearms.

Who Is Christopher Miner Spencer?

Spencer was born on June 20, 1833, in Manchester, Connecticut. His early life was a mixture of schoolwork, farming, and eventually apprenticing at a machine shop owned by the Cheney Brothers. The early exposure to machinery gave him a strong foundation in mechanics that would push him to become a fantastic engineer. It’s worth noting that while Spencer may have only designed two firearms, he had several other inventions under his belt.

The machine shop gave him a foundation in tooling, but according to the Windsor Historical Society, it was his grandfather who provided an interest in firearms. His grandfather, a Revolutionary War Veteran, allowed and encouraged him to tinker with an old musket. After his apprenticeship ended, he worked throughout the American Northeast, including at Samuel Colt’s factory in Hartford.

The Spencer Rifle

After working at Colt, Spencer went back to the machine shop where he apprenticed as a superintendent. There, he earned his first patent, a machine that automatically wound silk. It was also at this machine shop that he came up with the idea for a repeating rifle design. In 1855, the average rifle was a muzzle-loaded musket, and a repeating rifle would offer quite the advantage.

The Cheneys encouraged Spencer to pursue the rifle and even allowed him to use their machinery to develop the rifle during his free time. A little encouragement and a lot of machinery were enough to get it done, and in 1860, on the dawn of the American Civil War, he obtained a patent for the Spencer Rifle.

The Spencer rifle fired the .56-56 Spencer, a rimfire metallic cartridge, and the ammo sat in a stock-mounted tubular magazine. The Spencer rifle could hold seven rounds of ammo and be quickly reloaded. The repeating action allowed for rapid fire, at least compared to the muskets of the era.

The Spencer rifle used a falling breechblock design where the breechblock sat in a carrier. The breechblock sits against the receiver, and that contains the firing forces. When you work the lever, the breechblock falls and continues until the gun’s “guts” are hanging out. This motion ejects the cartridge, and closing the lever collects a new cartridge from the tubular magazine and puts the breechblock back in place.

Unlike future lever actions, the lever did not manipulate the hammer. After working the lever, the shooter would then have to cock the hammer of the Spencer rifle manually. The tubular magazine could also be removed from the gun, but people weren’t selling spare mags for fast reloads. There would be speed loader-type devices designed.

Selling the Spencer Rifle

You’d think that the American Civil War kicking off would have made the adoption of the Spencer Rifle a priority. Well, then you’ve never met the U.S. Army, which consistently shuts down progress and sticks to tradition. In 1863, Spencer famously walked into the White House with a rifle and ammo to see President Lincoln. In doing so, he got an appointment with the President and Secretary of War.

They famously went to the National Mall, and near the Washington Monument, they engaged in some target practice. Lincoln and Stanton were impressed, and the US ordered over 13,000 Spencer rifles and 58 million rounds of ammo. General Ulysses S. Grant described the Spencer rifles as “the best breech-loading arms available.” Over 100,000 would be produced by the time the war ended.

The famed Lightning Brigade would use the rifles at the Battle of Hoover’s Gap, which proved how lethal and effective repeating rifles could be. The Spencer rifles would be used at the Battle of Nashville and at Gettysburg. The rifle’s rapid rate of fire was a decisive advantage, but so was the sealed ammo since it was less prone to moisture.

The Spencer Rifles were massively successful, but the success was a curse. So many had been sold to the Army that after the war, they were surplused and sold cheaply. This meant little demand for new rifles, and the company couldn’t recoup its investments. This led to bankruptcy and the company and its assets being sold to Winchester.

Spencer – Down, But Not Out

Christopher Miner Spencer didn’t stop developing guns. In 1882, he gave it another go with the Spencer Arms Company. There, he and a man named Sylvester Roper produced the first successful pump-action shotgun, the Spencer Pump-Action Shotgun. These were primarily 12-gauge guns, but 10-gauge guns existed as well.

The Spencer Pump-Action shotgun is a hammerless shotgun that uses an intricate design consisting of a toggle breech that pivots up and down while cycling. The gun had two triggers. The front trigger recocked the gun, and the rear trigger fired the gun. It was clever, and due to the unreliability of ammo of this era, it was useful.

The gun used a tubular magazine mounted underneath the barrel, which would inspire contemporary shotguns. The Spencer 1882 shotgun was pricey to produce and sell, and ultimately, the company would sell the design to Francis Bannerman in 1890.

Always the Inventor

That would be the last time Spencer involved himself in the firearms industry. I’d imagine he felt a bit scorned by the experiences. His guns were revolutionary and helped set the stage for contemporary firearms, but he never reaped the fruits of his labor. That didn’t stop him from obtaining 40 patents and living the life of a very successful inventor. Spencer might not be a household name in firearms design, but his contributions were massive.

Can I Get a Lift? Rideshare Safety Tips

By
Jim Cobb
-
rideshare safety

I don’t travel nearly as much as I used to, for a variety of reasons. But I do still find myself using rideshare services from time to time, primarily when I fly out of town. They’re convenient and far cheaper than renting a car for a few days. But they aren’t without risk.

Rideshare in Safety

Just a week or so ago, I read one terrifying account from a woman whose rideshare driver had apparently taken a liking to her and conveniently missed a couple of exits on the route to her home. She was reluctant to contact 9-1-1 as she wasn’t sure if she was truly in any sort of danger.

So, she texted a friend, who then called her. The friend pretended to be an angry spouse demanding to know where she was, who she was with, and when she’d be home. As soon as this exchange occurred, the driver was suddenly able to find his way to the proper destination.

A few years ago, the FBI issued a warning about criminals who were using rideshare services to abduct minors. While these dangerous experiences are definitely the exception, they do happen, and it’s important to mitigate the risks as best you can.

Let’s run through some basic safety tips regarding using rideshare services.

Verify Your Driver

When you book a rideshare, you’re given the driver’s name, photo, and vehicle, including the license plate. When the car pulls up, double-check all of that information to ensure you’re getting into the right vehicle. You might go so far as to ask the driver, “Who are you here to pick up?” All of this is for safety, but also to prevent mistakes.

I was leaving an event a few years ago and was expecting an Uber to take me back to the airport. It had been arranged by the event promoter, and I hadn’t thought to ask for any details. The car pulled up and called, “Jim?” I got in and we headed off. The only thing I confirmed was that we were headed to the airport. Turns out, about 15 minutes later, we learned she’d picked up the wrong Jim.

Keep Others Informed

rideshare safety - share your trip details

The major rideshare services offer an option through the app where you can let family or friends know your ride details, including your pickup and drop-off locations, the driver’s name and photo, and other information. They may even provide a live GPS feed showing your location as you travel. All of this goes a long way toward making sure someone outside the vehicle knows where you are and who you are with.

Be a Backseat Driver

rideshare safety - backseat driver

If you sit in the backseat, you’ll have the option of getting out on either side of the vehicle. Should the need arise, you’re also in a better position to take action against the driver, as they can’t reach you as well as they could if you were sitting at their side.

Trust Your Gut

If something feels off, do something about it. Calling or texting 9-1-1 is an option, as is reaching out to family or friends to let them know what’s happening. There’s always the option of terminating the ride and telling the driver to pull over. If they refuse, that’s a good indicator something’s amiss.

1...789...422Page 8 of 422
© All rights reserved © 2023 GAT Daily. Designed by GAT Marketing