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I've only tinkered with them on occasion. My recommendation though is that if you're going to put them on a long gun, get one with an aluminum body as the polymer ones tend to be the ones that develop issues (so I've heard directly from users).

In the context of this conversation, I too would recommend a Primary Arms dot-- top notch stuff, and great company they have there (I've been a customer of theirs for over four years now, and only had great experiences). With that said, Vortex makes some nice stuff. I have the Viper PST, and its great, clear glass.

I think that is what the execs at History learned, Maks, that this show caters to, mostly, a niche crowd. There are the shows on niche channels (Versus or NBC Sports or whatever its called now) on certain days that cater exclusively to the firearms community-- and they do well. Though the Nielsen rating is 0.8, how diverse is the show? AKA how long before the targeted community gets burned out and the show crashes hard?

Yes; compliance work can be done. The important factor is that you, as the owner, do not possess the illegal firearm in your private possession as that will get you in trouble. Instead, when the rifle is transferred/acquired at your FFL, either have them do the work (if possible), or have the rifle transferred to someone who can. Depending on what work you need done, there are a number of different FFL/smiths throughout NJ. I'm sure others will chime in with specific individuals who could provide the service. I personally had a non-NJ complaint 15-22 that TJ @ TJ Sporting Arms made compliant for me (just had to pin the stock). I also happened to buy from him as well, so, it was a one-stop-shop.

From a purely economic standpoint, the show was middle of the pack on Tuesday's, scoring an average score of 0.8 Nielsen rating-- which isn't bad, nor that great. However, I'm a bit surprised as the show was an essential part of the larger Tuesday schedule for History, which had been doing pretty good as a collective. Maybe corporate has something bigger in store? Or maybe the cost of production was too much and/or there was a lack of big-name brands that wanted to sponsor? I agree that its unfortunate because the show did take a bit away from demonizing firearms; but yea, gosh darn, I stopped watching the show back after season 1 because of all the drama (there is a reason why I don't watch reality soaps).

Hmm, fortunately I was out of my local area for the duration of the day, so I didn't deal with this charlie foxtrot. Unfortunate to hear though, and I hope all of my neighbors are doing alright.

In the event of resuming the Korean War, my analysis is that North Korea would wage total war. Some parts conventional, other parts not so much. However, there would be a good bet that there would be massive damages to both sides-- both at the human level, as well as socio-political. IMO, DPRK is a linchpin, and could have far reaching implications beyond just toppling an indoctrinated state. But it'll most likely never happen because the US would have nothing to benefit from by continuing the war. There are no real economic or political gains, and, hence, no push by the government to take action-- even if there are the worst crimes against humanity being performed (think Libya, and how quickly we went in there to "assist"). Also, considering the major players in the region, China and Russia, US again won't do anything unless provoked because of the geopolitical implications (think Syria and the ties to Assad, and how much we aren't willing to assist). In fact, any President who opted to resume the Korean War would be committing political suicide, and, more importantly, would be performing a [potentially] catastrophic disservice to the US. I would argue that the DPRK is quite resourceful, especially when it comes to acquiring and selling goods (I mean, c'mon, they have built and successfully tested nuclear weapons starting with two gum wrappers and a llama stirrup-- that was facetious). However, for the decisive components for certain tests and goods, the US and other powers across the globe have taken major precautions and actions-- though most of those occurrences are behind the scenes, and probably will never be known publicly (given people continue to do their job as well as they have). My final concern lies not what North Korea has or will do. It lies in their influence as a rogue state, and their ability to traffic components and other goods to other nations that are or will directly bring conflict to the US and/or its interests. What is a depressing and unfortunate thought is that regardless of whatever action is ever taken, there will always be a country like North Korea; and I think that is the reason why the US allows them to continue what they do, disregarding the horrors. The US and other powers have a fairly controlled grip on the situation, so why bother making a bigger deal out of it, or creating more monsters that aren't as controllable? Unfortunate and yet predictable when considering the stance the US has taken regarding modernity and globalization.

The last time anybody cared for the FMG9 (or whatever its called) was like 2005; same with the Masada (not the bastardized version). But yes, as stated, innovative company that puts out high quality stuff for competitive prices.

This is classic saber-rattling, at least overtly. Consider that the upcoming 100th anniversary of Il-Sung is around the corner, and the ongoing geopolitics occurring in DPRK, whether or not this launch was a success is a moot point. As its been pointed out, the launch will be hailed a success in the country, and their citizens will, unfortunately, believe every word of it because they don't have the ability to know otherwise (no such thing as mass or media communications in DPRK). This will bolster the newly hailed "First Secretary of the Worker's Party of Korea" (to go along with the titles he's had, Chairman and Supreme Commander), Jong-Un, which is chiefly important for him in this time of transition. Of course there will be more toothless actions by the UN and other entities. Even though China admitted to DPRK that even they couldn't really protect them if something were to have happened, I still doubt there will be little to no action... especially considering DPRK is planning on an upcoming nuclear weapons test. But is it worth resuming armed conflict? No. I say that as an American and as a Korean. Sure, war is arguably humanity's greatest creation of culture; but in this day and age armed conflict is quite inefficient compared to the alternatives. ETA: As for them not respecting this administration, DPRK has never respected any administration, ever. Almost admirable, but not because millions suffer at the expense of a nation's ego. But their attitude is one that has been held close by many states and nations that were fisted by imperialism (and, arguably, neo-imperialism)-- so, I won't hold that against them too much.

It really is a great movie. Add to that list a reason to watch it being the main lead, Wagner Moura who always delivers a great performance. And this film is a direct sequel to the equally as good film "The Elite Squad" (AKA Tropa De Elite).

Very nice. I'm young myself, but I have the same appreciation. More of a Tchaikovsky fan myself: And can't go wrong with:

Haha, nice, here I thought I was thinking too metaphysically about the topic The question I pose then is what is reality? Reality itself is arguably created on two fronts, the personal and the socially constructed. They are in fact recursive, in that they work with each other, repeatedly, and infinitely. However, I would dispute that notion, and simply say that reality is always created by the personal. Social construction in itself is a powerful thought, but lends authority to society. The creation of reality as a personal indicates that we, as individuals, are capable of essentially being our own reality... our own universe, god, etc. This is similar to the Buddhist philosophy (and I say that lightly as I'm not overly familiar with Buddhism). By being our own reality, the fact that whether we understand certain dimensions and are oblivious to others is moot (though the whole topic of alternate dimensions is fascinating). To go off on a further tangent though, the whole alternate dimensions/reality thing is pretty wild. There is empirical data that indicates that the human can only understand certain frequencies-- hence truths. We see in a short range of colors, hear a limited range of decibels, and are heavily dependent on only five senses (and for many not even all five). Our spatial reasoning is hence limited to understanding essentially four dimensions (the fourth being time), while there could be countless. So, what truths actually exist? What are the true anomalies? Ghosts? Daemons? Fairies? Of course these references are to original folklore, the type that predate the rise of organized, monotheistic religion. Its actually a given that in many of these cultures that shared these folk stories it was understood that there was simply a realm of reality beyond the comprehension of humans. This is found in places like Southern UK (I believe), and East Asia (notably China). The same references could be made to Native American tribes with the idea of spirit walking, as well as Mesoamerican cultures and their rituals (like bloodletting). Interestingly enough, the experimentation with LSD in America, both recreational and by the government (remote viewing, anyone?) would also be examples. But back to my point. Reality is created by the personal, and, like faith, as long as it exists, whether in the mind of one or many, that reality will never cease to exist (until that person is gone, so to speak). That's really metaphysical, so, sorry if it doesn't make much sense. As for your input, Dave, I get a Wachowski brothers' vibe + something else my tired brain just can't think of right now-- good stuff regardless!

Religion has different contexts for different cultures, though, yes, I do believe there are some universals (which are more human truths than cultural). A universal truth that has different specific meanings is the argument of power and agency. In the majority of monotheistic religions, religion has historically been a source of power. In more shamanistic/druidism cultures, religion (though that is a pejorative way of putting it as these cultures don't label their beliefs as "religion," but instead that label is attached as a way of understanding "the other" by outsiders) is instead seen as a source of agency-- though power of course still plays a large part. However, the matter of the esoteric comes into question. What legitimizes a monotheistic religion is what makes a shamanistic and/or polytheistic religions (or any belief system for that matter) as legitimate-- which is simply faith. The fear complex is interesting because it is arguably attached to the binary way of thinking... good vs. evil, heaven vs. hell, known vs. unknown, etc. And in fact this same binary is applied to certain systems that aren't binaries at all-- yin yang for example. Many believe that yin yang (Daoist belief) is a straightforward 50/50 split, when in fact yin yang resembles a more fluid concept (like tidal waters as a concrete example)... so, it could be 50/50, 40/60, 80/20, etc., with the stress that there is always the whole, and that yin and yang (respectively) co-exist, and can be imbalanced. This break in systematic binary thinking has occurred slightly, arguably with the post-modern movement, where people accept "greys" (arguably as a way of legitimizing their focus on the self vs. the greater whole). Yea, my brain hurts typing this, I'll stop at that.

The whole topic is, agreeably, complex. For example, one small aspect is how much of an impact the Protestant Work Ethic has played in the development and formation in this country-- structurally, culturally, etc. Whether its the values that people consider "American" or even how the school year is structured physically, it would be difficult to ever really "separate" religion and school as the whole concept is quite embedded. Is this good or bad? I don't know, I'm not really religious so I'm not one to judge. I respect all religions, and think they should all be given the fair neutrality in the public sphere.

So, we must push modernity on all people? Otherwise they're what? Savages? While we're at it, why don't we selectively breed, or, more subtlety, perform gene-modification so we can attain the "perfect" race? C'mon. Just because you may not agree with a culture does not mean they're wrong. Just because we, as Americans/Westerners, see the world a certain way doesn't mean that is how it should be across the board. This is the fundamental issue that has caused the vast majority of issues across the globe, and one, unfortunately, that continues because people don't realize the fault in this sort of thinking. ETA: I don't advocate nor prescribe to the cultural practices described in the OP's link. However, that does not mean I will say that it is culturally wrong is my point.

Happy birthday!

This run does benefit a number of different organizations; from what I can tell it varies from location to location. I've heard of Wounded Warrior Project being one for example. I'll be at the "Baltimore" run in October myself with some others. Should be a good time. Only thing I'm not looking forward to is the timing, as the NJ Tough Mudder is the week prior.

26 in a month or so. Been shooting only since 18, when Uncle Sam gave me the opportunity.

My only issue with recommending ALICE packs/rucks is that if they're not of decent quality and/or the user isn't fully aware of how to wear them correctly, the ALICE pack can end up being a health detriment. Given the user loads the ALICE pack up, which is kind of the point, and it doesn't seat correctly, there are acute and long-term affects. Debilitating soreness, sharp back pains, and, ultimately, back issues, etc. I'm not NOT recommending such packs, but considering the market, there are a myriad of better products (even if the price point is a bit higher). Considering this is our own health we're talking about, maybe something to consider. I just picked up a SOC Tac Ruck E&E, for the exact purposes you states, and its not bad. Biggest issue I have with it personally is its internal design, which is to act more as a pack. I mean that there are no real compartments, but one large pocket. The internal struts (for maintaining the rigidity) aren't the best, and I'm going to probably find/mold some plastic to bolster this function. The good is that I love the design itself. Its just a ruck with MOLLE everywhere, it has a lot of flexibility-- and considering the number of GPs (General Pouches) I had sitting around, it was perfect. I haven't put it in the field yet myself, though I intend to a number of times this spring/summer when I go on some hikes and camping trips.

I got into an accident today myself (minor). Shame since the day was going pretty well up till that point for me.

From sources I'm reading, the designer is actually a Frenchman.

Interestingly a lot of the medical anthro research points to the fact that this may not in fact be biological in nature. But its weird to consider since many of us base our perceptions of medicine on western standards. In this case it would be similar to how the Chinese do not acknowledge many psychological disorders, while the west over-diagnoses everything.

Yea, I've been lusting hardcore for this since the SHOT Show 2011 videos... ergonomically it is absolutely amazing, albeit that is from all the videos and images I've seen (though I'm sure it wouldn't disappoint in person).

Hey, welcome. Seems like you're squared away with the process. As for Boston, hmm, I must go for some lobster roll.

I hate Wolf. I suffered from the dreaded stuck-chamber-malfunction really bad, and I've denounced Wolf ever since (unless its coming out of the Saiga, which I don't care). Also check out SG Ammo, a family company: http://www.sgammo.com/catalog/rifle-ammunition/223-556mm