February 2003 .

Feb 28th, Friday:  Check this out.  My little mean, green Suby started clanking and banging on me when I would turn or even just rolling straight.  I didn't know what the hell was going on.  Took it into a shop and the mechanic was shocked.  My ball joint was not longer joined.  The nut was missing that holds it together... this meant that at any time it could have just spontaneously KILLED ME!   Well, the cats hooked me up fair and square... and I was on my way.  The Suby felt nice and tight and we were both happy again.   Miracle that thing didn't just let go and tear me up.   Out of shear joy and gratitude for not killing me - I took Suby to a nice twisty road and just stormed it.  Who cares if the road was wet and slick?  It's freaking all wheel drive and it just stuck to the road.   That blue mustang would have slid off into the ditch at the first turn.  For as much as I like this Subaru, I am jonesing hard for a WRX.    

This sent in from Byron:  Jesse Jackson is visiting a primary school and he visits one of the classes.  They are in the middle of a discussion related to words and their meanings. The teacher asks the Reverend Jackson if he would like to lead the discussion of the word "tragedy."  So the illustrious leader asks the class for an example of a "tragedy." One little boy stands up and offers: "If my best friend, who lives on a farm, is playing in the field and a runaway tractor comes along and knocks him dead, that would be a tragedy." "No," says the Great Jesse Jackson," that would be an accident. "A little girl raises her hand: "If a school bus carrying 50 children drove over a cliff, killing everyone inside, that would be a tragedy." "I'm afraid not," explains the exalted spiritual leader. "That's what we would call a great loss." The room goes silent. No other children volunteer. Rev Jackson searches the room. "Isn't there someone here who can give me an example of a tragedy?"  Finally at the back of the room a small boy raises his hand. In a quiet voice he says: "If a jet carrying the Rev. & Mrs. Jackson were struck by a missile and blown to smithereens, that would be a tragedy." "Fantastic!" exclaims Jackson, "That's right. And can you tell me why that would be tragedy?" "Well," says the boy, "because it certainly wouldn't be a great loss and it probably wouldn't be an accident either."

Are you listening to the news these days? Isn't it hilarious that the Liberals can't field a talking head to go toe to toe with Rush?  And they are freaking out about it.  Isn't it enough that they have Hollywood, the general news media on all the networks and CNN?  Just another reason to love Talk Radio.  I have said many a time that liberals are fucking stupid.  This was proven with Fred Durst's anti-war speech. The silent majority already thinks your a fucking moron... I think we are all in "Agreeance" wit dat.

Gods and Generals.   Going to go see that... 4 hours of a movie... let's see how that plays out. - Update - No, I decided I couldn't do a 4 hour civil war movie... not today.  Not when there where 8 or 9 guys in line for it wearing civil war get ups.  I couldn't do that.  So I watched The Recruit instead.  Good flick.  Loved the ending.

Feb 24th, Monday:   We need to work on our verbiage when we discuss the war with Iraq.  You see, these liberal dimwits are against “war” and will counter you at all levels when you mention it. Never mind facts… they are not about facts.  If they were they wouldn’t be liberals, would they?  No, they are emotional based slug-brains that need to be stroked the right way.  And if we do it right – they will have no leg to stand on.   Let’s talk about “Liberation” and not “War”.  We are not wanting war with Iraq… We are wanting to “Liberate Iraq”.  Just like we liberated France – one village at a time.  France can not be against “Liberation” can they?  I don’t think so.  Other than it’s fucked in the head President, France still remembers what “Liberation” is all about.  At least the mature and reasonable French do.   I am often quoted as saying things like “Fuck France” and “Fuck Iraq”… but I am not really against these people as a whole.   I am just deeply disappointed with these country’s leadership and Anti-American policies.   I have met some very good people from both places.  No, seriously… I mean it.  I have!  I swear!  Anyways, it’s about freedom.  We are going to bring FREEDOM to the people of Iraq, just like we have brought freedom to many other nations.  When discussing this with a person of the Left Mindset the response was a positive indication that using the right verbiage in small debates, we leave them disarmed.   Even a liberal can not be against freedom.  So shout “FREE IRAQ!” instead of “FUCK IRAQ!” or whatever else we are saying.  Myself included. 

Today I had the chance to drive around my old hood, Ashland Virginia.  Wow.  The place has grown all around, but Ashland is still Ashland.  Driving around it I saw a lot of new things, and recognized even more of the old things.  Since I had forgotten most of Virginia, this was a weird sort of exploration/deja vu sort of thing.   Memories were flooding my mind as I passed places I used to frequent with my wife.  Many of the places were exactly as they were before.  Especially GREENTOP SPORTING GOODS. More on that later.  Ashland has grown in a good way, keeping the smallish town feel.  I love that town, but I don't think Ashland is were we are supposed to be.  Who knows.  Maybe it is.  Note to Mrs. Ogre:  Pam's trailer is no longer there where it used to be.  I don't know anything else as I didn't stop.  Just did a fly by on the place.  Love you, Babe.

Greentop Sporting Goods remains one of my favorite places to buy a gun.  I walked in there and it felt like I was home.  The cats there were friendly and helpful with what can only be called as Southern Hospitality.  The southern accents were not annoying.  The whole store is packed with all things "GUY".  Hmmm... I don't know what it is, but within 5 minutes of walking in - I could have easily dropped 3 grand on various items.   I really love the look and feel of the Browning Buckmark rifle.  That little .22 carbine is slick.  I want one for me and my whole family.  Another gun I took a close look at was the new S&W 1911.  Very well made... it felt right.  Probably has the best out of the box trigger I have ever felt on a 1911 that retailed for under 1500.  And this gem retailed for 799.  Not bad.  Not bad at all.  They come with two 7 round Wilson Combat mags.  Nicely done S&W... Kudos.  Make it in a Commander package and I'll have to buy one.  Eventually.  Note to Correia: You just might want to pick up a couple of these S&W 1911's.  They are very very nice.  My next handgun will be either a Mini-Cougar, or the new 3 inch Springfield XD.  I've not decided which yet.  However the next long arm will be the Beretta Cx4 Storm.  That is for certain.  I have a 20 round mag that needs a Cx4 for it's new home.

Loving my Subaru.  Today I was driving north on I-95 and was almost run over by an 18 Wheeler.  The Sub was able to roll on the power and pull me away from danger briskly and without hesitation.  This little 16 valve boxer engine is spirited.  I need to to some work to it... it needs some help in the breathing and it would do much better.  If anyone out there has any information on improving the performance of these engines, I would like to hear about it. Again, this is the 2.2 liter 16V boxer engine that Subaru dropped into the 92 Legacy.  If this car was a stick shift, I would be even more happier with it.  But I really can't complain about the auto-stick as it does allow for manual shifting.  The computer shifts at pretty much the same points that I would be shifting at manually anyway.  Couple things I need to do it - I need an all wheel alignment, tire balancing, and I need new a shock in the right rear.  Other than that - this car is awesome.  An absolutely great buy.   I got it from Matt, and the shop is called "AUTO BODY WORKS" located at 81 East 780 South, Provo UT. (801)787-2989.  If your needing a set of wheels, call Matt and he will hook you up right.  

Feb 23, Sunday:  Virginia hasn't changed much since I was  last here.  It's grown some, but other than that it's pretty much the same.  Even my shooting range is the same, just has a new name and it's grown a little.  Well, my email situation is a bit messed up, but you can reach me at "madogremobile@yahoo.com" until I get everything set up again.   I think I'm going to go with cable when I get my family into the new place.  Uh... I guess first I have to find that new place.  And a job to pay for it.  The hunt is on.  If you know anyone hiring in Virginia - drop me a line.  Seriously.

I was watching the WRC Rally and I'm impressed by a car called a "Skoda". It is doing well in rally on the world stage.  I understand that the Skoda is a heavier, but more powerful racer.  Yeah!  That is my style right there.  I also understand that Skoda is basically a VW.  *sigh*  Czech with German ties.  Oh well - its a fast all wheel drive car that spanks everyone.   I love it.  But just what the hell does "Skoda" mean?  It's either Czech for nutsack, or a fish of some sort.

Something odd was noticed.  In the movie Blade II the head Vampire Ninja guy that went into Blade's base - is "Cat" from RED DWARF.  I'm not kidding either.  Look up the names in the credits if you don't believe me.

I'm missing my family very much... It has been a week and I'm home sick for my boys and my wife.  If I don't find a job - I might just have to run home for a visit and to evaluate this decision. I love my family very much and being a part is just horrible.

Feb 18, Tuesday: I got some pictures sent to me from last Septembers 3-Gun match. I found this little gem of the Ogre himself (first on left) poppin a few rounds through a flat top AR with Trijicon sights on it. Thought you might enjoy it. Mrs.Ogre

Virginia is full of some seriously moronic people in regards to winter weather.   This morning I was driving down Powite Parkway and this cat in an Accord just HAD to pass me.  I was going too slow for him.   Well... he passed me... and about 40 feet in front of me spun out.  He spun and went into the median.   I stopped and asked if he was okay.  He swore at me like it was my fault.  So much for asking if he needed a hand getting back out.  He was venting at me... but come on.  He is the one that chose to push it.  He is the one that stepped on the gas and sped up on icy freaking roads.   And it's my fault?   Whatever.   Normally I am a good citizen and the type to help... but this jackass didn't merit the effort.  I got back in my car and drove off.  This is symptomatic about one of the main problems with the USA right now.  There are many issues... but one main issue is that no one is responsible for there own actions.  This is basically the open door for someone to be able to do anything they want and not be the one to blame.  This doesn't even have to be a personal belief as there are activist groups that will do it for you.  They are called defense lawyers.  There are too many instances of this to rant about right now... besides, Dennis Miller did it better.

France:  These freaking cheese eating surrender monkeys... They refuse to support the US in military action in Iraq.  Fine.  But to refuse to support the rest of the UN in DEFENDING TURKEY?  Why the hell do they want to refuse to help defend another country when the UN is all in favor of it?  When that is exactly what the UN and NATO was created for!  What does France have to gain from allowing Turkey to be attacked?  What is it with France that we have not kicked them out of the UN and NATO?   Screw these guys.   We need to take some action against France in the form of a Boycott or sanctions.   France can not be allowed to give America the finger like this.   This is sad because the US and France has had a long history of working and fighting together.  Pretty much since the US was just a fledgling rebellion.  And now they are giving us the Finger.   Nice. 

Feb 15, Saturday: This is Mrs.Ogre letting everyone know that Ogre has arrived safe and sound in VA. It rained his entire trip and I for one am very grateful he made the wise decision to trade the Mustang for the Subaru. The all-wheel drive kept him on the road despite the weather, got about 31 MPG, and ran happy for the 36 hours it was on the road. Many prayers were said for him including one from our 6-year old: "Please bless that a tornado won't suck up daddy in Kansas". He was blessed. Ogre will be back up online shortly. In the meantime - bear with me.

Email from my brother: "Hey Ogre, Zup bro, Just got tossed in a squad car so I felt like raging against the machine a little. It's attached. I thought your readers might like it. If you decide to publish the essay it would be great to encourage your readers to pass it on. I am serious as all hell about what I wrote and really am willing to get into writing more. I want to motivate people about freedom like Patrick Henry did back in the day. I am really fed up with all the BS we have to put up with and I refuse to have my dignity stripped away like that ever again. I like what you said in your goals about MadOgre being more of a forum for national issues and less of a journal. I think that it could grow to be quite an influence for those like us who have had enough and want to be heard. You should promote that, there are a lot of us out there who want to rage against the machine and be heard. Ogre is my daddy :}"

 Feb 13th, Thursday:  What did I say yesterday?  I'm driving over here!  Check back in a week!

Feb 12th, Wednesday:  Today was my last day in Utah.  In the morning I will be heading out.  I was going to be leaving this morning, but I had to get the Subaru ready and I wanted to have some more time with just my Family.  We went and ate pizza in the park and played until we were too cold and tired to play any more.   We had a great time.  It was a good day.  

Steve Ting, Larry Correia, Carl Kessler, and all the other cats I've become friends with... The UTAH TFL Chapter.  You guys have been a blessing.  You guys still have my email and I will forever consider you Friends.   Steve - You rock to a shockingly high degree.   Keep those ahem... disks coming!  I'll be in contact in regards to Onsite an office in Virginia.   Larry, I am still behind you on that CTR BPFAL project. I want to be one of your beta testers!   That and you owe me a plate of cookies.  Carl, two words for you... Toyota Tundra!  Just kidding...  Don't overclock your box too much... Reliability over Speed.  Stay in contact.  Take car of the lady's cars while you can.  They may need help.

I'll miss Utah and the people I know here... But there are some things I wont miss.  Like the hyper rift in the economy... You have the cats living in the super rich life style... and then you have everyone else trying to live on College Student pay.  I wont miss the "Utah Drivers"... Utah natives just can not drive.  You guys suck... Seriously.  The whole Mormon vs Non-Mormon thing over BS issues like a freaking sidewalk the Church dropped 8 million on that no one ever used in the first place all the sudden becomes a "HOT TOPIC".  Gimme a break... We paid over 8mil for it!  It HELPED the city!  We didn't try to screw SLC.  Hell, WE BUILD SLC!  You jackasses need to appreciate that.  We build it... give it up, then pay 10 times the value for a tiny little bit of it back and you guys pitch a fit.  You don't hear that crap around the Vatican, do you?  NO.  You don't.  Because the Non-Catholics around the Vatican are not A BUNCH OF FREAKING JACKASS LOSERS!   Don't get me started on Food.  There is only one good Chinese place in Utah.  It's in Orem.  And it's small.  Mexican... non.  With all the latinos here, you would think there would be at least one good one.  Nope.  If you want a good sit down restaurant, there is only Rodizio... and Brazilian can get old.  You can only eat so much meat.  I wish Shin Tao could have eaten there.  It's his kinda place.   Other than that... No.  It isn't here. Good food isn't around here.  Around Richmond... you can get good food from freaking sidewalk carts that will smoke the best here in Utah.   Don't believe me... I can PROVE IT.  Try me.  Come to Virginia and I'll show you.  Around lunch time I will take you downtown... and from a cart, I can get you the best meal you never had in the whole state of Utah.  Don't get me started on the joints with actual tables!

This trip to Virginia is over due.  I should have been there a long time ago. 

Feb 11th, Tuesday, 2003:  This wasn't me!  I promise!  I have witnesses... I have an alibi!  Hey, I wonder if they are hiring now.

You know... a Mustang just isn't me.  So I traded that in on an All Wheel Drive Subaru Legacy.   It's a pretty boring looking 4 door...  But it has a good engine that wants to run.  Power everything and brand new tires.  When I say brand new... I mean brand new.  The guy said "Take her to Big O tires and they will put new skins on her."  They did.  I got a killer great deal on this car.  It was just sick... straight across for the '88 Mustang.   Let me tell you about where I got these killer deals.   This little body shop in Provo... They will take an ugly car... buff and polish and paint it... and then resell it at an unbelievable price.  Sure the car might have been munched in a fender bender... but they fix all that.  Now there are a lot of shops out there that will do that.  But none of them are the Professional Car Nuts like these guys that actually treat you with respect.  It's the whole attitude they have.  They want to help you out and make sure that your happy with your car.  I drove the Sube home and this evening I got a call "How is the car driving?  Did Big O take care of you?"  The cat there wanted to make sure everything was cool.   His name is Matt, and the shop is called "AUTO BODY WORKS" located at 81 East 780 South, Provo UT. (801)787-2989.  If your needed a set of wheels, call Matt and he will hook you up right.  Oh, and take a look at that blue Mustang.  If I was a "Stang" kinda guy it would have been perfect.  They had another Sube there, a 94 for almost nothing. A Nissan for a pittance, and an almost brand new looking Caddy Eldorado - the one that looks like a hotrod for only 4 large.  Not a lot of lettuce for some seriously nice cars.  Take it for a ride, and if there is anything on your mind about it - they will take care of it.  GOOD SOLID GUY, Matt is.  He is a credit to the shop.  I had the best time buying a car (actually 2 of them there) than I have ever had.  Normally you go into a place, and they treat you like crap.  Not these guys.  These guys are solid.   If you need some wheels... or need some body work done.  Go there.  Seriously.  Tell them I sent you.

One person I recommend going to that shop is a cat that I worked with at CompUSA.  His name is Steve.  Steve drives some old car that I think Fred Flintstone used to drive.  Steve, go get yourself a new ride bro.  You need one.  You can pick up that Mustang for only twelve hundred.  Go Steve... seriously.  Your car sucks.  We all talked about it all the time when you were not there.  It wasn't Steve's Mom jokes... It was Steve's Car jokes.  "Nick called in... he's going to be late.  He had to drive Steve's Car."

Just got an email from my Dad.  The consummate car critic has given his nod of approval on my choice of automobile.  I guess this means I'll be able to park it in the driveway?   Why did I choose this car?  It's sporty, fun to drive, all wheel drive, and reliable.  Subes are well known for banging out over 300,000 miles.  That's why.  

Email from Reader:  “I can't believe your website - it's great.  You like all the same stuff that I do (with the exception, perhaps, of big motorcycles and guitars.  Here's the deal.  I'm thinking hard about buying a North American Arms 32NAA and after reading your article it seems that, with exception to size, you pretty much liked it.  Now, would you recommend that I buy the 32NAA (with the hard to find round) or just a standard 32ACP by NAA.  I also like the looks of the Beretta Tomcat and the 380 Colt Pocketlight but the NAA looks a little more substantial.  I usually carry a Beretta 70S or my 1991A1 when I'm out dickin' around but I am looking for something a little less intrusive, that's why I am looking for something I can stuff in my jeans and head out.  Thanks, Dub Cross”  I’m not into Guitars… but I do like big motorcycles.  My next project vehicle after I get resettled in Virginia, will be a chopper.   A Rigid, with a Knuckle Head engine.  (I like the looks of that engine – it speaks chopper better than others) It will all be flat black, with chrome forks, flames and pipes.  I’ve been planning it for over 6 months.  A standard .32ACP?  No.  I wouldn’t recommend one.  The cartridge is too weak.  The .32NAA or the .380 Guardians would be good choices.  They are both on the same frame… which fits much better in my hand than the smaller .32ACP frame.  Between the two… it’s a toss of the coin.  But Personally, I’d take the .32NAA version.  The .32NAA is more reliable, and has good punch.  The .380 rounds that you would use in the Guardian are less than impressive.  Your not going to be shooting the super hot ProLoad .380’s in such a small gun.  That would be most painful.  The Guardian could handle it… but it would be difficult handling the Guardian with those loads. The Beretta Tomcat… I’m not impressed with.  I’ve seen some breakage and lots of stoppages that just can not be tolerated in a gun that will be used in the most desperate of circumstances.  The Colt Pocketlight… Not a bad choice… but I’d hunt for a Colt Pocket Nine which is almost as small, yet in full 9MM.  But the Beretta and the Colt are much bigger than a Guardian.  The Guardian you CAN just stuff into your jeans and head out.   For a real “Pocket Pistol” that’s the ticket.    Another one to consider is an NAA Mini Revolver in .22 Magnum.  It’s even smaller.  These guns are CNC milled and then hand fitted and polished.  I’ve been to the NAA factory here in Provo and was very impressed with the attention to detail that I have not seen in other manufacturing establishments… Even S&W, and Taurus. 

Emails from another reader: “I'm a fairly new reader to your site, but what I have read I have agreed to, even your political views. You're absolutely 100% right. Blah blah blah, keep up the good work.  I have a question about sights on firearms, a fairly stupid one, but please bear with me. When you raise a sight, does the bullet go down? Or vice versa? And when you put the sight left, the bullet goes right? Basically does down mean up and up mean down?  Thanks in advance,  Robert.   P.S.: I'm getting my first pistol soon, and looking to spend under $5-550. I can handle any caliber except .357 on a 4" barrel. I like the 1911, but the Mil-Spec seems kind of featureless. Should I opt for the Championship model for $600 or just a plain old .357? Or should I try a Glock 22 (.40 is my personal favorite caliber) for $500? I'm kind of torn, but what I'm looking for is a good carry, home defense, and duty pistol without the good carry, home defense, and duty pistol price. CZ also seems pretty good (IMHO).”  Thanks for the email Rob, blah blah blah…   If you raise the sight… Your extending the range that your point of aim is set at.  I am guessing your talking about the Rear Sight.  So if that is the case, then yes… the bullet goes up.  The point of impact is higher on the target.  Now, if you raise the Front Sight... the impact will be lower.  First pistol… under 550?  First thing is to get the gun that you really really want.  What your heart yearns for.  Pick up a few gun rags and make note of the guns your eye lingers over.  The one you really want the most – of it’s in your price range and it’s available… if you don't get it, you will only kick yourself until you finally do.  Now “Wheelgun” vs. “autoloader” is a huge debate.  Shin Tao would tell you to go Revolver every time.  But that boy packs a .44 magnum as his CCW… he isn’t right in the head.  I lean to the autos.  So it’s a matter of taste.  Both have pros and cons.  Some guns to consider depending on what your in the mood for:  Springfield XD.  Lifetime warranty.  The gun is amazing, you can get it in a number of flavors now… 5 4 or 3 inch barrels.  9mm or .40 cal.  I’d go with a 4 inch .40.  Duty or CCW, it’s good to go.  And if you have any problem with it… any problem at all… just call Springfield and they will hook you up on their dollar to overnight it back to them.  They will fix it, and overnight it back to you.  Taurus.  Lifetime warranty.  They have some great revolvers.  At the SHOT SHOW they are going to be releasing a bunch of new models.  Take a look at www.taurususa.com next Thursday for the new revamped website and all the new goodies.  They are bringing out a new duty grade auto that is supposed to be the Bee’s Knees.  We will see.   If your wanting a classic 1911 auto like you hinted at, look over Kimber guns.  You can’t go wrong with them.  You might have to stretch your 550 a few dollars, but you will get a hellagood handgun that you will want to show off.     Your right, the Milspec Springfields are pretty drab.  I fired a milspec type 1911 at the WC 3Gun match in Vegas and that sucker literally put a hole in the web of my shooting hand from some severe hammer-bite.  If you have big hands, you MUST have a beaver-tail grip safety.  When I was done shooting (on just one stage) my hand and my gun was covered in blood!   (I did pretty good on the stage, but it was annoying afterwards)  Take a look at some other guns too.  Beretta Cougars are very nice, CZ-75’s are also very slick…  I’m not a fan of Glocks, but they are popular and have a following for a reason.  If it’s a Glock you want – it’s not a bad choice.  Ogre Out.

He Emailed back:  “Hmm...thanks a lot for the information. It's pretty helpful. The only thing is I don't think a Couger or XD would fit my hand. I'm 6'3" and 240lbs, lol. I'm really open to any kind of pistol that has good quality and fits my hand, plus shoots well. I don't mind spending more, but it would have to wait a month or two more. I might just save up and get a Sig P-something series. Have any help for Sigs? What models are "best?"  Thanks for the fast response, surprised me, Robert”  1911, SIG P220 - P226, CZ-97B, Beretta 92FS - 96, Taurus Beretta clones. (with the safety on the frame where it should be) If the 1911 is too slim you can order these finger grooves to go under your wood grips and wrap around the front of the grip-frame.  These will make a 1911 Wookie Size.  Correia who is like 7-foot-sasquatch-something uses them and they work perfectly.  They are called "Modular Grips" and you can order just the finder grooves.  PIERCE GRIPS is the outfit that makes them. The SIG grips on the P220 series can be expanded as well.  Get a set of HOGUE rubber grips and one of the "HANDALL" slip on finger grooves.  Or you could use any slip on grip enhancer.  (I've seen bicycle inner tube used for this) Take the grips off, put the slip on over the bare frame, and then stretch and pull (use a blow dryer to heat the rubber) and put the Hogue rubber grips on over the slip-ons.  I did that on my P220 and the results were amazing.  A gun that was hard to keep a good grip on, now fit perfectly. There are a lot of little tricks you can do to a pistol to make it fit your hand.  Wheelguns often come with much bigger grips... or you can comb a gunshow and find a set of larger custom grips.  Basically on a revolver, you don't need to worry about the original grips... I don't know ANY real "Shooters" that have the original grips on a revolver.  Well, that’s not true… the new Taurus revolvers have excellent grips right out of the box… as does Ruger.  Anyways… Thanks for the emails.  Be sure to let me know what you decided on.

Packing and getting ready to head out.   This sucks.  I love my family... the idea of leaving them behind for a month just sucks.  This is very hard.   I knew it would be, but damn.  This sucks.

Feb 10th, Monday, 2003:  THE RING has followed me home.  Just when you think there is a happy ending... it changes...   *shudder*  In my DVD Drive is a disk.  And on that disk is THE RING.   With a shaking hand I put the disk in and shut the drive.  Almost instantly there was a popup box that asked how I wanted to open it.   Did I want to open it?   I felt like the people in the movie... I know what is on the tape... I know it's dangerous... but something is making me watch it...  I clicked "Play" and the movie began.   For about 12 seconds.  It was that long before I grabbed my piece of reality and clicked "Close".   Then I realized that I was holding my breath.    There are certain things you have to do to prepare... to steel yourself for it.  Since it's not on the big screen, it wont have the same power... the potency... the effect.   Yet some how I can feel it.  It's there.  Waiting.  In my DVD drive.  And all I have to do is press play.

Let's have some fun.  Check out this link.  And then this one.  You'll get the idea.

Email from Reader: "I find amusing complaints about the weights of weapons. Usually, these complaints come from AR-15 shooters with their Ultimately Tactical mock-M4 carbines, complete with fake, non-collapsing stock and barrel cut for the M203. They say that the M16 line is superior due to its lower weight. Many also complain that the 20" M16A2 is too heavy.  See, it all ties in with previous complaints I've made about these guys, these Gun Shop Commandos with thier gizmo-fied AR-15 carbines.  Anyway, they say that the M16 is better for the military because it's lighter and ammo is lighter. They might have a point on being able to carry more ammo; more ammo is always better, even though they Army's "standard loadout" is seven magazines.  However, as for the weight of the weapon...I'm in the National Guard. I'm not what you'd call a PT Ranger. I don't think think I could drop and give you 100 good pushups in one sitting if my life depended on it.   That said, I'm also a SAW gunner. The FN M249 SAW weighs in at about twenty pounds with its flimsy 200 round plastic drum in place. Despite this burden, plus the spare barrel on my back, I still am expected to keep up on the ruck marches. I get in the track and out of the track. I march up hill and through the brush. I stuff the thing in my hooch at night.  Perpahs this has made me a little jaded, but I always want to snicker when I hear a healthy adult complaining that the M14 or FAL is too heavy. I want to laugh out loud when the say the same thing of an AR-15 of any sort.  To each his own and everything, but if you're a healthy adult and you find an AR-15 too heavy, perhaps you should consider hitting the gym.  I don't think I'm alone in this opinion. It seems to be shared by any poor soul that's ever had to hump the sixty... - Mike"   What's really funny Mike, is that these same people that glorify the AR-15 for it's lightness opt to put things on it like heavy barrels, scopes, rails for stuff they don't have, lazers, lights, GPS, more grips, and all kinds of crap.   In the end, you put that on a scale, and it now weights more than an M14 or FAL.  I do like a light and handy rifle... But if your after a light AR - spec out and put together a light AR.  That means no extras, or only one extra like a Trijicon Reflex.   Anyways... Gunshop Commandos are a always a crack up.  Like the one guy that tried to convince me that the BERSA is the finest weapon you can buy.   Amazing.  Being a 60-Gunner... I know what heavy is.  And an FAL isn't heavy when your in a fight.  Look at Corriea... he uses one in competition against AR shooters all the time.  He SMOKES THEM. 

Feb 9th, Sunday, 2003:  Well, the Acura wasn't the car for me.  I found the one.  I got it.   It's a Mustang.  I'll let the pictures do the talking.  The price was only $1,224. I think I got a killer deal!  Tell me what you think!

Okay, you may have noticed that there is a windshield wiper is missing... This is fixed...  Hey, for a twelve hundred dollar car - I think this thing is looking great.  It will get me to Virginia with no problem!  Now... about that radar detector!

I may have found the car for me.  I'm not sure yet... I'll be looking at it later today.  It's an Acura Integra.  I've read all the user reviews from around the web and the general feelings are that it is a great car with no unusual problems.  Things to look at are struts, rust, and the transmission.  These cars if well maintained are solid and reliable, and evidently fun to drive.  This example, if in good condition, may well become my new car.   And it's red.  This is a good thing.  The red ones go faster.

Hmmm... I might have to pick up a radar detector.

"Longhorn", the code name for the next version of Windows. It will be coming out in 2 years. What really needs to be done to XP? What are we looking at in a new version? Once XP is installed, it's not that bad... It recognizes new devices and the plug & play feature really works well. It's far from perfect, but at least it isn't Windows ME. Actually, what would be really cool... If Microsoft would take a Linux core, and build a "Windows" shell over it with all the drivers and plug and play stuff built into that... At the same time trimming the OS down by half. Because XP is 2 gigs and it just keeps growing every time there is a patch! Hell, every week there is another 20 megs I'm downloading for it! If not for the OS, then for something else... Virus definitions or some other Norton update. And that's required because Microsoft can't build a secure OS. Fuckers. Anyway... In 2 years we get to do all this over again. What I do expect to see is this new OS being built to take advantage of 64 bit processors, and Intel's new Hyper-Threading technology. AMD will probably counter that "tricking the system to think there are 2 processors and splitting the CPU" by just putting 2 fucking chips in there... Both full speed and full capacity. At least that is what I would do. When that stuff is available... I'll just buy a new computer with all that stuff built in.  Where will I get it from?  Not CompUSA. I don't want to buy from an outfit where the salesmen are paid on commission and have to pimp you on AOL and an extended warranty. Don't get me wrong, there "TAP" program is great... For a laptop. But not for a desk top. Save the 500 bucks, buy a better monitor, and when your motherboard blows, drop 130 on a new one and have them do a free install on it.   One good thing about CompUSA... That is the place to buy your PDA from.  Buy the replacement plan for an extra hundred bucks and if anything goes wrong with your PDA, bring it back and they give you a new one.  That is pretty awesome.

One of the downsides to having a subscription to SWAT magazine is reading all these great reviews. This latest one has two great ones in it. The first one is for a drop dead sexy 1911 two-tone... The kind that gets me hard. Love those! The other is for the re-release of the AR-180... The AR-180B. Don't know what that is? It's the gun Armalite invented before the AR-15, they called it the AR-18... The 18 is the select-fire military rifle and the Semi-Auto-Only version for civilians is the 180. The 180B is an updated, modern version that uses a straight stocked polymer lower receiver and standard AR-15 type magazines. One feature that I ally like is the operating rod and the fact that the 180's design doesn't have the rifle defecating back into it's chamber. They changed a few other things too. All details that improve upon the original. This rifle has become what the AR-15 should have been. I have fired a few original AR-180s and there were some things that I didn’t like about it… but these new changes fix all of those initial misgivings. The new version is lighter too. The one thing that I don’t like is the lack of a folding stock. But I guess in this new politically correct era, you can’t have that because then it would be evil. These new AR-180Bs can be had for only 650. I’ll have to put them on the “Ogre Recommended” list… after I can get my hands on one and try it out.

One good thing about getting an Acura, is that it is a Honda and as such parts are plentiful and not expensive.  The last Honda, and the only Honda I have ever had was a great little car.  There was a problem with the carburetor and on top of that, the transmission went out. This pretty much totaled it.  But when it was running, it ran great.  Handled great, and was a lot of fun to drive.  The engine felt strong (when the carb was working right) and was happy to rev out and really run hard.   That was an Accord.  Don't remember the year or model or any of that... but it was a car that I really wish I still had.  If this Acura is similar to the Accord, but without the mortal flaws of the Accord... then I will buy that car on the spot.

Feb 8th, Saturday, 2003:  YEAH!  We have the rest of Spectre's Update!  Check it out.

I'm looking for a used car.  I'm wanting one that is mechanically sound, but ugly.  I'm looking for an older car, one that can also become my project car.  I want it to be able to drive to Virginia in.  Looking to drop a grand on it.  No sissy cars... like all the Ford Tempo's and Escorts.   Can be an ugly fixer-upper, but it has to be solid and be able to register it.  If you see a good one, drop me a line.  Oh, I'm in Utah... so If your in Texas, New Zealand, or Main... Thanks for the help, but I really have no way to come get it.  What would be ideal would be a Mustang LX 5.0 or something like that, that is running great.   I missed one by only 5 minutes.  DAMN IT!  

Yesterday I threw out a binder filled will old artwork that I did 10 years ago.  Today Mrs. Ogre was out dumpster-diving to find it.  She brought it back in and is now going through it.  I think the statute of limitation has run out on it and I can not be held responsible for that collection of art.  (I used to be an artist and cartoonist many years ago.  Yes, I was good.   No - I don't want to talk about it.   Don't even ask)

Loitering Weapons.  Check this out.  Just like in a cartoon... A plane drops a bomb and the bad guys duck for cover.  So the bomb just hangs there waiting fro the bad guys to stick their heads out - BOOM!  But this isn't a cartoon.  This is real.

US MARSHALS are now being used to collect debts from student loans.  Damn. 

Beretta 92FS.  The question has been asked "Why is the Beretta so under rated?"  Most responses are about the gun being so large.  But I don't think it's a matter of size.  I think it's a matter of overload.  Every police show from the 80's and most of the 90's had Berettas.  All the action movies had Berettas.   All the shooters out there were just swamped with the Beretta.  It's like if you hear a cool song on the radio... yeah, it's cool.  But when that song is played back to back - you get really tired of it.  The gun it's self is a fine handgun. One of the great ones.  With good ammo, the 92FS is fantastically accurate.  Compound that accuracy with solid reliability... and you have a great handgun.  You can say that about any gun.  Reliability is #1.  #2 is the fit to the user... you have to be about to handle it well.  #3 is Accuracy... if it works every time, and your able to hit your target with it - that is all that matters.  You could be firing a damn Hi Point and if it's meeting these 3 things... then that is all that matters.  I have been in the past, a Gun Snob.  And I remain so.  I will never spend my own money on a Hi Point, Lorcin, Raven, Jennings, or crap like that.  But to be honest, hey, if it is working for you - Who cares?  I know several folks that own a Bersa and it's working for them.  At the same time, I know people that have dropped over a grand on a handgun that is nothing but a jammomatic.  Anyways... The Beretta is an outstanding handgun.  It fits me just fine.  I can hit with it.  And it's accurate.  So those meets all the requirements.  Now add in some of the Beretta's bonuses.  High capacity, super smooth action, smooth trigger, comfortable grip, and it doesn't weigh that much either... carried in a good holster, it weighs nothing.   The 92FS might be outta the spotlight now days... like Cindy Crawford... but she ain't ugly.  I'll keep her.

Feb 7th, Friday, 2003:  Picked up my final paycheck from CompUSA.  It was only for 1 week, but it's a good boost to my financial situation.   Picked up a Black IBM keyboard.  I like the feel of the keys... but most importantly it was the cheapest black keyboard there.  I'm going to paint the IBM Aptiva black, so it will match.  I think that is the last time I will ever go into that CompUSA.  I think.  Who knows?

I got a phone call from my brother TC.  He was most bothered that I watched a movie, alone, in a theatre, that was scarier than Event Horizon.  This is disturbing to him because he couldn't for 3 days after Event Horizon.  This was great because I've not had communications with him for over 6 months. 

Looking at the vehicle situation... the Van we were going to get is too expensive to repair.  I'm looking at other vehicle options now.

Feb 6th, 2003:  Something added to the weapons section.  Check it out.

North Korea wants to throw the first punch.   They want to hit us before we are finished with Iraq. This situation is getting really dicey now.  They know we can kick there ass, and for that they are willing to start throwing nukes.  Generally speaking, North Korea is like the fucked in the head kid that brings a gun to school.  I think we need to just give them a spanking.  What North Korea doesn't know is that it is very likely we have a whole shit-load of Boomers off NK's shore just waiting to glass the whole fucking country if they twitch the wrong way.  Here is how it will go down.  Korea pulls the trigger, and all the sudden all around the country the water boils as dozens and dozens of US missiles jump up out of the water and fries all the key points in NK. In fact, if I was the President, I would be very tempted to do just that.  North Korea's threats are nothing less than an overt terrorist act.  Again, the only problem with North Korea, isn't North Korea.  It's China.

For those that downloaded Opera 7.0, you need to download 7.1 now.  Go to Opera.com and get it.  Turns out there is a security hole that was discovered and this will patch it.  This is no big deal... I think I have to patch Internet Explorer some 2 or 4 times a WEEK. 

"I haven't see you this shook up over a movie since Event Horizon", observed Mrs. Ogre.  Signs was a super-scary flick... Make no mistake.  Creeps-Galore.  But The Ring trumped it.  Big Time.  What makes for a scary flick is different to different people.  That's because of differences in life experiences.  Some people are deathly afraid of blood and slasher flicks scare the buhjeebiees outta them.  Or monsters.  One thing that I've personally experienced is ghosts.  I'm serious when I say they are real.  Most of the time, they are just hanging out.  Other times, they are rather unpleasant or even hostile.  Since I know ghosts... movies that involve hauntings are more potent than other things when it comes to giving me the creeps.  Now, watching a scary flick at a theatre, on the big screen is different than when you just watch it on tape or DVD on your little screen.  In the TV it's contained... Your safe.  But on the big screen, your fully involved.  Your committed.  IT, isn't contained... IT's loose.  IT gets in you.  Don't know what I mean?  Let me give you an example.  Take Event Horizon.  Those that have seen it in the theatre, almost always say it was the scariest movie they have ever seen.  Those that watched it on tape sometimes even say "It wasn't that scary."  Shit... That flick had me climbing a wall!  That movie had my Marine Corps Brother crawling backwards off the couch he fell asleep on.  Same things happened to us... 2800 miles away from each other.  I saw it at the theatre.  I came home.  Not even that night, but the next night, I was in bed sleeping and my wife walked into the room.  For some reason I was startled, and woke up... and saw her, but didn't see her.  I felt terror and tried backing away from her... Up the wall.  My Bro, TC did the same thing.  He was hanging at our folks house the night after he saw it in the theatre.  Fell asleep on the couch.  Dad just walks into the room.  TC startled, and tried back-pedaling off the couch through a sliding glass door.  Understand, neither of us are the types to be scared of anyone.  We've both faced foes toe-to-toe bigger and stronger than ourselves and have won.  We've seen the Elephant.  But Event Horizon scared the shit out of us.   We don't know why.   For the same reasons that I can't put my finger on, The Ring scared the shit out of me.  I think it touched that same place in me that Event Horizon did... And not in a good way... More like pressed in and twisted something inside.  If you've seen Event Horizon in the theatre, you know what I'm talking about.  Interestingly, all those that have seen E.H. in the theatre have all said that it was the scariest flick they have ever seen.  It was so spooky that even the cast and crew got the creeps just being on the set.  Scary movie.  The Ring, I think, has beaten it.  

There are 2 new scary movies that are coming out.  Darkness Falls and THEY.  Darkness Falls looks like its right up my scary alley.  THEY, just looks like one scary fucking movie!  These almost look too scary.  I think I'll wait for the DVD's on these two!  Anyways, last night, yeah... Went to bed with the lights on.  *shudder*

Feb 5th, 2003: THE RING!  Holy shit!  This is hands down the scariest movie I have seen in 10 years.  Maybe EVER.  Wow.   It is playing at our local "dollar theatre" where you can see a flick on the big screen for only a buck.  Not a bad deal if you missed the flick in it's first run and don't want to see it on the TV.  I just watched it a couple hours ago... and I still feel... broken.  This flick is disturbing and scary.  Now, many movie goers may feel jaded about the story line.  You see, it's been done before and not very well.  The first film was a smash hit in Japan, becoming one of the most popular films there ever.  Then FEARDOTCOM took the idea and just... ruined it.  This movie did it right.   Feardotcom tried to take it, mix it with THE CELL and some other shitty horror flicks.  THE RING took it and made it all it's own.  I was sitting there thinking it was over... A happy ending with closure.  Awwwww... All is well in the world.  Uh, wait a second.  No, it isn't.  It's wrong.  It's worse.  In the theatre I was in, a young lady (BYU College girl) jumped out, and ran out while trying to keep from screaming.  I think (by a faint odor) she peed her pants.  She never came back.  This movie just hits you... right between the eye... with a sledgehammer.    Now, I have to go try to sleep.  I'm leaving the light on!

Spectre has sent us an update.  This is only part of an update and we should have the rest of it, containing military updates soon.   In this update, he is pondering matters of faith and doing some soul searching. "Wherefore, if a man have ^afaith he ^bmust^• needs have hope; for without faith there cannot be any hope."
 Oh, and yes, it was Spectre that sent us the Ginger Ale.  Turns out that this was the "Mild" variety.  I think it would be a test of strength if it was the full power "Hot" Ginger Ale!  WOW!

France is no longer our Ally.  Knee-jerk reaction is "So?"  But there are some deeper issues here.  France has always been an ally to the US.  They gave us a great deal of assistance in our Revolutionary War against England.  The problem with France as it stands right now (other than it's revolting liberal state of mind) is it's current President.  How could President Chirac honestly believe Saddam is preferable to any other possible Iraqi leader?  I don't think this is a matter of personal beliefs... but a matter of what France and Chirac have at stake in Iraq.   What does Chirac have to loose of we kick Saddam's ass?  I think there is something fishy there.  Germany is also against military action... but at this time, I believe Germany will still have our back.  They would have a very bad economic turn if they decided to screw with us.  We have bases in Germany.  We import more cars from Germany than any other country or countries combined.  We drop a lot of American Dollars in Germany.  They are not going to risk that.  If they did, they would be thrown into an economic situation that would rival the the 1920's and 30's.   France however... how many cars do we import from France?  I've not seen a "Le Car" in years.  Screw France.  No... screw Chirac.  He either has something he is covering for... or he is a hugely ignorant man.  Either way, his validation for being a leader of a NATO country is in question.

Let the bodies hit the floor

Feb 4th, 2003:  The UPS Man dropped off a surprise for me today.  Someone has sent me a case of Blenheim Ginger Ale.  It was ordered from a website.  I have no idea who sent it.  There was a card with the word "Enjoy" on it.  I suspect it was from Spectre, but I'm not sure.   Whoever sent it, thank you.  Enjoying it, I am. 

There is a very educational thread over on THR about the Steyr AUG rifle.  Check it out.  It's not quite enough to give me gun-lust to want to go out and buy one up.  But it is most interesting.  The AUG is one of the most misunderstood weapons out there.

OGRE AT THE MOVIES:  I've watched a few movies the last couple days... Shanghai Knights and Catch Me If You Can.  I fully enjoyed both of these movies.  Jackie Chan is amazing and did a wonderful job in this flick.  And his "Sister" was incredible too.  Lot's of good dialog and action... great flick... but it's overshadowed by the first one in terms of originality and shear fun factor.  While this movie is a hoot - the best one was the first one.  It's still worth watching.  In the theatre.  Catch Me If You Can... Loved this movie.   Tom Hanks did a bang-up job like normal.  But what was surprising was Leonardo DiCaprio's performance...  He actually did a good job!  I think he is seasoning as an actor and is certainly getting better.  As much as I enjoyed this flick... it's not really one to see in the theatre.  You can wait for the DVD, and go to the theatre to see Darkness Falls, or The Two Towers... again.  My wiffy and I have been enjoying these films here at home, on my PC... so the overall experience is somewhat diminished, but we got the picture's point.  The only flicks that are in the theatre right now that I want to go see, but wont have the chance... Darkness Falls and The Recruit.   But I'm not sure if these are worth seeing in the theatre.  If I went... I'd probably end up buying a ticket to the Two Towers again because I know I would like it, and wouldn't risk the chance leaving, thinking that I just wasted 7 bucks.

Feb 2nd, 2003: Yesterday was most interesting.  It was "Tinker Day" all day but nothing really got done.  Carl came down from Logan and we got his PC hooked up nicely.  Running good and I made him some back up disks for all his critical stuff in case he blows out drives again.  Carl is a hot-rodder, so it's likely to happen.  Mrs Ogre's PC went from an Athlon K7-700 running at 805Mhz down to a PII @ only 400Mhz.  Reason being, we could not get that system to load any OS other than Linux.  Mrs Ogre said she was willing to learn Linux, but I don't want her to be frustrated over something like that when we already have enough to deal with.  We tried everything to get that system up and it just wasn't happening.  I still have the K7 board and processor, but I don't know what I'm going to do with it.  Maybe trash it.  Maybe save it.  Yeah, I'll save it.  Somehow, I have a feeling I'll need them.  So, this generic little PII is now running 98SE and doing fine.  It actually benchmarked at 1500 which was surprising... We were estimating a score of 600-800.  Not bad for a pile of shiz computer.  Threw in Media Player 9, some MP3's and got the sound and network running and I think my better half is okay with it.  I think I'll use the K7 setup for a Linux box one of these days.  It was running Mandrake 8.1 with no problems at all.  Why it wouldn't touch Windows 98SE or XP, I've no idea.  XP was running on that board and drive just fine before... Updated the BIOS and everything last time.    Anyway, after we get all moved into Virginia, this PII box will become the kids computer for homework and educational games.  This leaves the IBM Aptiva, running an AMD K6 processor... What to do with it?  It's a small PC, without any AGP or many upgrade options.  If anything, it can become an MP3 server, Linux box, or kiddy computer.  This IBM came to us none-functional, but with some work, it's running shockingly well.  Especially with it's built on board ATI RAGE PRO graphics.  It plays Age of Empires just fine... Tiberium Sun too.  I've not tried anything else on it, but I might.   It's OS is again, 98SE... But I think I'll try some other OS options... OS/2 Warp, FreeBSD, or something else.  Something fun.  Of course, I might just leave it and use it as a file server, a legacy game emulator, or an internet terminal.   I have to admit that I really like this little IBM.  It's cute.  I'm calling it "Little Blue" and after the move it's gng to get some goodies... I'm going to pant the case black with a blue flame job.  Then match that with a black IBM keyboard and the black IBM optical mouse with the blue light under the translucent scroll wheel.  I'm also going to throw in a 64 meg PCI Radeon graphics card and a 256 megs more RAM.  I don't know why, but Little Blue is just special to me for some reason.  I'll post pics of the system when I'm done.   :)

Email from Reader: "Hello, Enjoy your site. You got me going on the Beretta Storm--have to get one next. Selling my camp nine carbine. It looks like it is available in 9mm, 40, and 45acp. Take a look at this link. Go back to the home page, centerfire long rifles, it shows all 3 cals. same price, $623+ Regards, Justin"  Thanks for the email Justin.  I’m going to get mine in 9mm. Only because I have 5 high cap mags and a 20 rounder for the 9mm. Doing it over again, I’d probably go for a Beretta Cougar in .45 and make the Carbine one to match. That would be a SWEET set up. But I’m currently most pleased with the 92FS so I am going to stick to this for the time being.

Last night, Carl had said Logan was expecting some snow... So I checked the weather report.  No snow or rain was forecast for Orem.  Needless to say I was most surprised to wake this morning finding 4 inches of the foul white-stuff.  I dislike snow.  It's fine in the mountains, but on my lawn?  I'd rather not have it.  The Wrecking Crew were completely delighted with this event.   It's not surprising to have snow on February 2nd... But considering that I was outside yesterday in a T-Shirt,  and we have seen very little snow this year.  The upside is that Nick will be able to board on some fresh powder... And the mountains will have some more snow-pack.  This is good because Utah needs as much winter run off as possible.  I guess this snow is a blessing.  Just wish I had rolled the window up on my Cherokee.

February 1st: I know Norway isn't that important of a country in terms of strategic power and influence... but when your leadership is at some meeting discussing what could be the lead in to World War III - Don't break out a fucking video game and start playing!  He was just playing a game on his PALM PDA... We are only grateful he didn't break out his damn X-Box.

Space Shuttle Columbia has just broken up on reentry.  Watching it on CNN right now.  Holy Cow.

Email from Reader:  “Good luck in Virginia.  I caught a bit on the History Channel about five years ago, and I don't recall if they were referring to Korea or Vietnam at the time.  They were interviewing a ranking officer, either a Col. or Gen. (Like I said, the details are a bit fuzzy after five years).  His line though stuck with me, and may just be appropriate for Iraq and/or North Korea.  "We [could/should] have turned them into a giant self-lit glass-bottomed parking lot for the next thousand years." Problem is Big Brother sitting there.  We could probably bitchslap them too, although it would take a bit more planning, and I don't think it worth the cost (China that is) I think it was Patton who said our boys could take anyone else in a fight.  One other thing I was interested in, your 1/30 update jogged my memory.  Beretta 93R.  I've read about it quite often in the books by Don Pendleton (and ghost writers) The Executioner.  His two primary handguns being the .44 Magnum Desert Eagle and the 9mm Beretta 93R.  Side note a lot of the books, especially the earlier ones are very well researched and written out by Pendleton, a veteran of WWII & Korea.  Anyways, I digress.  Realizing the 93R to be capable of burst mode makes it extremely rare to find.  A friend said he'd never seen it on a Federal Form, so his perspective was that it was introduced after the import ban.  I believe I'd read something of it pre-ban, making it available on some form.  The problem is that there are seemingly few resources on this particular weapon.   You know either any details about its availability or legality, or another source to look at research-wise?  Another side-note, my friend just got his CZ-52, and has introduced it into the lineup for concealed carry.  He's replaced the pin, and will be putting in a 2lb trigger, prior to doing some of the upgrades you'd written of some months ago.  Ideas for his improvements on grips and all courtesy of www.madogre.com!  Thanks for the time, and best of luck in Virginia.  Ray”  Thanks for the email, Ray.  I’m really looking forward to going back to MY home State.  Er, Commonwealth.  The CZ-52 would make a great CCW gun due to it’s slim profile.  It’s ability to penetrate – or OVER penetrate is legendary.  If your friend is going to carry it “on duty” he needs to develop the habit of taking a knee before he pulls the trigger.  This will change the ballistic arch so that the round will fly overhead of anyone or anything behind the target.  And hey, it’s a more stable shooting platform anyways.   I sold mine due to fund issues before Christmas… but I am planning on getting not one more, but two more when I resettle.   I seriously like these guns that much.  Mine was perfectly reliable feed-extraction wise.  The only hang ups it had were due to some extremely hard primers from surplus ammo obviously intended not for the 52, but for an SMG.  MAN!  THAT WAS A FUN GUN!  I gotta get me another one soon.  That would make a better road trip gun than my Beretta 92FS… because most likely on such a trip if I have to use a gun, the target could very well be behind some vehicle door or windshield… or I have to shoot through my own vehicle door or windshield.  Anyways…  The 93R, there are very few of them in the US, and all belong to collectors.  The best way to get one would be to take a trip to South America, buy one, and use your imagination to get it back into the States.   Basically – you and I will most likely through legal means, never have one.   I fired about 4 mags through one at Ft Benning a long time ago.  That one would go full auto, not just burst.  It had a shoulder stock and a tendency to climb sharply because this one had a threaded barrel but nothing attached. (suppressor or muzzle break)  At the time I considered it nothing more than another SMG… so I was not impressed.  The Model 12 was a much better SMG and I grooved on that one.   If you do find a 93R, it would be prohibitively expensive… You could buy an HK SMG for the same money, and have made a better investment.

Two new processors are coming out for use in PDA devices. First one is by AMD.  This new chip will have 2 built in SD controllers and Ethernet.  It will run at 400Mhz... Same as the Intel X-scale chip I'm running now.  Not sure exactly what the advantage this AMD chip would give a user... But if your a PDA maker - it's a damn good option.  This chip can run WINCE, Linux, and other PDA languages... But not Palm.  Cost is another good reason for a maker to consider an AMD processor.  The Cost savings could either be used to increase profitability, or edge competition and help drive sales. The other processor is from Samsung.  It's going to be running at speeds from 400 to 600 Mhz, with much better battery life.  Yeah, that's pretty damn cool.  I'd love a Samsung powered iPaq! That would kick A.  Especially if it had build in 802.16a/802.11g wireless networking.   If HP (and I really hate HP) doesn't come out with one... and some one else does... I will sell my iPaq and buy one! 

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