Maze Runner the Scorch Trials

So went to see this last night.  I was a little disappointed.  I have not read the books so I am not able to speak to that.  The movie had a few predictable twists.  Some jump scares that did make the audiance startle.  It however to me had a whole Walking Dead theme going on as well.  I will say I was intrigued to know more about the world and what happened.  So yes I will see subsequent movies just to see what happens.  I will most likely eventually read the books. 

Why I love my P2000 SK

I purchased my P2000 SK for one purpose, self defense.  At the time prior to that I was carrying my Springfield XD.  I was having difficulty carrying my Springfield in summer.  I did not want to wear a cover shirt like I have seen so many other people do.  To me it "flagged" me for carrying a concealed firearm.  I decided I needed something that I could carry that was slimmer than my XD but still had a reasonable size.  I personally like to have a full hand grip on a firearm.  I know some people do not mind if their pinky finger is hanging off the grip.  I wanted something that was going to be reliable and of solid build quality.  I also wanted to stay with my 40 S&W cartridge.  I have always been a fan of the cartridge.  It does have a snappy recoil, but when I have looked at videos of me firing my pistol, it is not as pronounced as I have perceived it to be while in the moment of shooting.  I had found myself falling into one of the cardinal sins of concealed carry.  I had stopped carrying my Springfield XD just because I got tired of trying to find a way to conceal it.  So on the hot days if I was not carrying my camera bag I did not have my firearm.  I initially started carrying concealed because I had received a death threat stemming from work I perform.  I went out bought my XD and enrolled in concealed carry class.  As the seasons changed I soon discovered the above issue about concealing my firearm.  After many trips to gun stores and searches on the Internet I decided on my H&K.  I have been very happy with it ever since.  Here are my criteria I was looking to meet.

1.  Needed a minimum of 8 rounds. 

2. Needed to fit all my fingers on the grip. 

3. Needed to be reliable. 

4. Needed to a have a very durable finish.  

5. Easy maintenance.

6. Easy to shoot.      

7. Solid build quality.

8. Needed to have a solid review history.  

9. Easy to operate.  

10. Must be accurate.  

The numbers above were in no order of importance.  It was just in short what I was looking for in a firearm.  The P2000 SK met and exceeded many of those requirements above.  I will admit I was frustrated with a few things when I first started shooting the firearm.  I was aware of one being the L.E.M. trigger mine came with.  I had read that many users struggled with this trigger system in the beginning.  I can say I struggled with the trigger for about 500 rounds.  It was not until I got used to the trigger that my accuracy improved.  My P2000 SK does not have a traditional decocker arrangement that many H&Ks have.  Mine has basically a very long trigger pull, then it meets final resistance till the hammer falls.  It is almost like it has two stages.  The long slack pull and then the final part till it fires.  I had to buy snap caps and practice dry fire drills to finally truly adjust to the trigger and learn how I was pulling my shots of center.  I kept shooting low 7 O'Clock on target with the P2000 SK because of my trigger pull.  Now that I understand the trigger pull I can shoot very well.  I can stack shots on paper now with the P2000 SK.  I am very happy with the trigger now.

I struggled with the magazine catch at times.  I have read some people changed theirs to a different style.  I have kept mine the same.  I just have to squeeze the magazine release with my pointer and thumb.  I understand why H&K designed it this way.  It was set up to minimize the risk of accidental magazine release.  It works well for that for I have never accidentally dropped my magazine.  

The P2000 SK holds 9+1, is very easy to clean, very easy to disassemble, easy to shoot, has never jammed one time since I have owned it, solid reviews, and is definitely much more accurate than me.  I also think with the dual recoil spring and buffer system it may be softer shooting than my Springfield even though is is smaller in size.   

I am still working on monitoring the finish wear of my P2000 SK.  It truly has shown very minimal wear.  I will post pictures in the next few weeks on this.  So stay tuned.  

Here is a photo of the P2000 SK broke down.  Very easy and quick to clean.  I have zero issues with rust either on the lettering and engraving.  I have read that some individuals have had issues with that.  I have also not changed my trigger pull because I have read that some people have had functioning issues after they have attempted to lighten their L.E.M. trigger pull.  It should also be noted that H&K make some of the best magazines.  The quality of the magazines this pistol has is amazing to me.  The only issue, they come with of hefty price.  

 I am currently using Hornady Critical Defense ammunition.  It is expensive but well worth the price if your life should ever count on it.  

I was previously carrying Winchester Silvertip ammunition.  This ammo was highly recommended by my instructor.  He showed me during class the tests they had conducted and it out performed Golden Saber and Hydra Shok.  For the performance to price it is a good alternative, plus you get fifty rounds compared to 20.  

The Mystique of the 1911

I used to scoff and hate a 1911.  I blindly threw disdain and hate towards that antiquated piece of outdated firearms technology.  I would hold my new age polymer framed firearms with their fancy high capacity magazines and sneer as my friend would shoot his 1911.  I would snicker as he missed the target he was shooting at.  I remember shooting his gun and thought, this gun is heavy, the trigger is like pulling a trampoline spring.  I do not know how to describe the feeling of firing his gun.  I remember shooting my Springfield XD versus his gun.  The Springfield was a dream to shoot.  I remember when he shot my firearm and he was hitting the target each time.  I remember seeing the smile on his face.  His response just fortified my mind that the 1911 should be relegated to a time long since passed.  I however did not look at the fact that his firearm was a very cheaply made version of the 1911 from some foreign company.  It very easily rusted and I remember I was asked to refinish the firearm for him.  I remember taking it apart and seeing the very roughly fitted pieces and noticed that the trigger actually was completely broke in half on one side.  It was actually a wonder this firearm still shot and functioned.  It was several years later that I shot a Colt 1911.  It was an old target model probably from the 70's.  When I shot this gun I was in awe.  The firearm had a totally different feel.  It had no slide slop.  It made a sound of utter music to my ears as I cocked it.  The trigger pull was crisp and predictable and I was shooting amazing groups.  I was shocked at how "right" this firearm felt in my hand.  It ran smooth, recoil was smooth as butter, and I could hit the target consistently shot after shot.  I did not want to stop shooting this gun!  I am a convert.  I love the 1911 so much I bought my own finally.  I am now the proud owner of a Kimber Grand Raptor II.  This firearm is a master piece of function and beauty in my eye.  I almost hate to shoot this gorgeous firearm but it is such a shooting pleasure.  I can  hit targets consistently at 50 yards with no problem.  So I am a convert, I love 1911's now.  I am happy to see so many offerings out there for them by other companies and I will be happy to add many more one day to a collection I hope to have.  Will a 1911 replace my daily carry gun?  I am very fond still of my H&K.  I can stack shots with it at 25 yards on good days.  Most of the time I struggle to do that.  However with the Kimber I can pull out out of box and always have a good day with it no matter the distance.  I am not sure but to me there is a mystique about a 1911.  I understand that now.  If you have not shot a true quality 1911 do not judge it by that cheap imitation till you have shot a quality one.

NEVER FORGET

May we all say a prayer for our country and the families that lost loved ones on that tragic day in our country's history.  We must NEVER FORGET that day.

I have been away for awhile

So lots of new happenings in my life.  I was working 6 days a week about 12 to 14 hours per day.  It was a struggle with balancing my life and work.  I managed to get a new job and I will now have more time on my hands!  So that means I will be able to start updating my blog more now.  So stay tuned I plan on posting more often now.  At least once per week.

I Have Not Been Active

I am sorry my readers.  I have been more active on Twitter than I have been on my own blog!  I have been working so much at work I have not had time to work on some articles.  I have been busy juggling personal life, work, blog material, work, work, work, work....all work and no play make Wadoni a dull boy....LOL!

Our Future is Not Looking Bright

I read a lot and try to keep up with trends and what is happening in the United States.  I fear I see our future generation loosing it's way.  I had a short conversation with my nephew who is in college at the moment.  He feels that for the greater good it is fine for citizens to lose freedoms.  He stated that we fight the government and that is why tragedies keep befalling our country.  He stated that we impede the government in it's quest to better defend us.  I questioned where he received these ideals.  I know his father does not share these sentiments.  My nephew stated that he was taught  this in college by multiple of his professors.  My nephew stated that they presented sound logic and it made sense.  No matter how hard I tried to convince my nephew that was not what our country was founded on.  My nephew told me I was a conspiracy theorist and I was very paranoid.  I was shocked he felt this way.  I know myself when I was going through college I too was presented with such information.  I however did not "drink the Kool Aide."  We need to seriously worry about our future generations for I feel they are being "Brainwashed" and in time our government will be able to pass actions on our nation that restrict our freedoms and the general population of our nation will think it is OK.  

The Key to Concealed Carry

The number one thing with concealed and carry to remember is always carry as often as you legally can.  I know several people who carry "only when they will need it."  This mindset is self defeating and leaves you vulnerable.  Who can predict what will happen to them day to day?  I know I can't and if I could I would be a millionaire right now!

What are some things that keep people from carrying day to day:

Inconvenience

They may go to several locations or work at a place that does not allow a firearm to be brought in.  So instead of taking the extra few seconds to make the gun safe and stored in their automobile they leave it at home.

Carrying is Uncomfortable

Well to me a gun is not always very "comfortable" to carry but it is comforting knowing I have it with me.  To me this is a mute point.  If you get a style of carry your comfortable with and a good belt and holster rig you will be set.  I personally use an IWB holster and love it.

Seasonal/Geographical Issues

I know weird subject header.  I could not think of anything else to call this section.

Depending on where you live you may have to dress differently.  It also may mean you sweat more and this will mean extra care will need to be provided to your firearm.  With hotter climates it will be harder to conceal a large frame firearm because of you having to dress appropriately for the weather.  I know I have personally struggled with carrying my firearm concealed in the summer with OWB holster.  If I used my Fobus paddle holster it was even harder to conceal.  Since I purchased my IWB holster it has become much easier to conceal my firearm in just a T-Shirt.  In the winter I have no issues since I wear three quarter length jacket most of winter.  I however have found myself using my IWB holster most of the time now.

I worry about the finish on my firearm

Well if you want a "Safe Queen" firearm you will never carry it with that mind set.  Your carry firearm is a tool.  You need to come to terms that if you carry a firearm everyday it is going to get wear on it.  No matter what finish you choose there will eventually be some wear.  Do yourself a favor get a gun that you will not get too sentimental over.  Do not carry your dad's gun or a firearm handed down over the generations.  Get a firearm that is reliable and durable.  Get a gun that feels good in your hand and you can shoot well.  If you have trouble with the recoil of the firearm get one that you can manage the recoil.  You may have to consider going to a smaller caliber.  I will cover that a later date.

This post has got too long already and I could write for much longer.  I am going to make this several posts over the next few weeks.

On ending get yourself a firearm that you feel comfortable with, come to terms that it will get wear on it, practice often, carry often, get a belt and holster rig that works for you, and dress to suit your style of carry.

Check back often and follow me on  Twitter for all my current information!

Is Money the Only Way to True Happiness?

In this time here in the United States it is harder and harder to live the American Dream.  It feels like the rich keep getting richer and the poor well keep getting poorer.  The clients I see on a daily basis struggle daily to put food on the table as well as pay the bills.   I have often heard them say "do we pay this bill this month or that bill."  Some are taking out loans just to keep alive during these times.  I know many of them struggle with working multiple jobs just to keep the money flowing in.  Some do not even have insurance.  I thought the Affordable Healthcare Act was supposed to resolve that issue.  I have spoken to them about this resource and I have been told by several that they still cannot afford the payments for insurance.  Many of my clients are more than willing to take the penalty instead of paying for the insurance.  So what did the Affordable Healthcare Act do?  How is it possible there are still people without insurance because it is still out of their reach? 

One of the top five things my clients say that will make them happier is if they had more financial stability.  They worry constantly they will not have a job or may lose one.  The constant financial burden they say is draining on them.  I know some of these financial woes are their own making.  If not most of them are.  I know many of my clients are very impulsive with their spending and their "needs."  If they would better manage their finances they would have a much better situation however many of them had a life event that placed them in a rut.  With how things are right now it is harder than ever for them to fill that rut back in.  With financial institutions sending out so much junk mail offering loan consolidation and the promise of low payments it is even easier to get buried with more debt.  

So as the saying used to go, "Being in debt is the American way."  Well maybe we as a country need to rethink that.  Especially the federal Government.  

Money does not buy happiness but not having money sure makes you unhappy!  So word to the wise be smart with your money, make a sound budget, stay away from credit cards, set up a savings, and live well within your means.  

I will be writing more on this subject so stay tuned for more information.    

Missed Two Days of Work

Hi all, well I missed two days of work and took some much needed R&R time.  Work was closed because of the snow.  I didn't really do anything besides get paperwork in order and played in the snow.  I was working on the direction I was wanting to take my blog and did some browsing on Twitter.  I have gotten some followers on Twitter which it is always exciting to see a new follower.  I have been experimenting with my photography again and realized how much I missed doing that.  I might in the near future share some of my work here.

Heckler and Koch finish wear from IWB holster

These are the pictures I promised.  Enjoy and I will revisit this subject regularly. Sorry for non professional photo work. The pistol has only been carried in the holster for about a month and half.  It is a Hybrid IWB holster.  This will be an ongoing blog entry so check back often and follow how the Heckler and Koch holds up!  Feel free to ask questions.  

Heckler and Koch Finish Wear

I still have not forgot about making this article and including photos yet.  I have been swamped with work and Life Events.  Please keep checking back regularly.

Near Death Experience

Well I had my first long ride of the season yesterday with my Wife for the first time.  On the way back from Elephant Rocks we had a driver negotiate their vehicle left into our lane.  This was at dark which added some additional complications into the mix.  I had my high beam on.  There was a car sitting on the road the car was wanting to turn into.  So I am not sure if my head light was lost because the driver was target fixated on the other sitting car or if they merely could not tell that my motorcycle was traveling as fast as it was.  The speed limit was 55 and since it was dark I was traveling about 45 to 50.  When I saw the car sitting there in the oncoming lane I had thought they were going to turn left.  They had no signal but I seen the driveway and knew there were going to cross into my lane.  I slowed down further thinking that they might turn.  Well they never did and they made the turn within approximately a car and half to two car lengths in front of me.  Well I hit the brakes progressively and shifted down like I was supposed to but I made a crucial mistake.  I looked the back wheel.  Right I know no big deal.  Well I should have kept it locked and I didn't.  I was fish tailing and I could feel the rear end sliding around.  So motorcycle knowledge tells you to not let the rear stop sliding because it may cause a high side.  Well I let go of the rear brake and the bike caught traction again and snapped for one second but never left the payment.  So I am not sure if my Demon Bell was working overtime or my guardian angel was there.  I managed to come out of the slide avoid a high side and still swerve around the car still in my lane.  So I feel very blessed and fortunate that my wife was not harmed and I was not as well.  I have been thinking about what all I did wrong and what all I did right trying to play the event out in my head over and over again.  I am still foggy on some details.  I wish that I had video to play back to see what happened, how close the impact was.  My wife stated that we barely just missed the car and she was scared to death.

So readers what was your closest call to an accident in your life and what did you do to avoid it?

So Many Motorcycles Out Today....I am Stuck Inside....

Well today is a gorgeous day here in southeast Missouri.  I have heard and seen so many groups of Harley riders out enjoying the weather break.  I wish I was one of the ones so lucky to be out and blazing some miles in the saddle.  I however had to go into work today and pay the bills.  Don't cry for me though, this lack of freedom and being controlled by the man will soon end.  I will soon be my own boss!

Riding Season Itch

I have been wanting to get the old Harley out for about the past month now.  I did a short ride the other day but it just wasn't enough.  I want to go for at least a minimum of a 100 mile long ride.  I have been looking into getting some equipment to record my rides but at this point in time priorities override wants.  Maybe by the summer I will have put enough cash together to get the equipment I need to do the recording.  I also want to upgrade a few things on the Harley to make things easier.  I will keep you posted.

Woke up today sick :-(

Hello readers I had planned on waking up today and working on getting some photos loaded of what the P2000 SK looked like before it was used as a daily carry firearm.  I however was not able to get good quality photos with my cell phone so I will use my digital SLR later tonight if I feel more up to it.  I have had a sore throat for the past week.  I think it has developed into a full fledged sinus infection now.  So I just didn't feel like messing with too much.  So hopefully later tonight I will feel more up to it.

I am excited that I am seeing some traffic to my blog already but no subscribers yet.  I would love to see some comments.  Also send me some suggestions for topics you would like to see covered.  

Gun Finish Wear from Everyday Holster Use

I have decided I am going to do an ongoing post of holster wear on my P2000SK.  I know that is a hot topic in the firearms community so I decided I will do a "diary" of sorts of my experience with carrying my firearm.  My primary carry will be an IWB (In Waist Belt) holster.  I have already some wear showing from the short period of time I carried the firearm in the current holster.  So it will not be a very good starting point but I will post pictures of when the firearm was new and that way you can get some ideas of how much wear I have experienced so far.  So check back often and see how the H&K is holding up!

I wanted to welcome everyone in the wide and diverse world to my blog.  This blog will be very diverse and will cover many aspects of my life.  I have many diverse hobbies and interests and this blog will cover them.  I love helping others and that will be a huge portion of this blog as well.  I will submitting articles and posts as often as I can.  I want to be active with my readers and want to receive messages from you all out there.  So please do not hesitate to reach out to me.