TCinJ

Here's the federal timeline: http://applications.nam.lighting.philips.com/cmolegislation/ Go stock up!

Well, that's what the gun guru told me. I didn't actually run the numbers through my head as I'm only planning on two purchases, so I've got plenty of time. As far as scoffing at 9mm, I sure as hell wouldn't want to be looking at the business end of a 9mm anything! (or even a .22!) And yes, I agree - the more time you have to stew over something the more you want to buy!

We all know that our second amendment rights are being trampled over more and more - especially in NJ. But did you know that starting Jan 1st, 2012 you will not be able to buy 100 Watt incandescent bulbs anymore? (limited to remaining store stock) And if you did know about the 100 Watt bulb ban, did you know it includes 100W globe style, 100W decorative bulbs, 60+W bulbs with candelabra bases and decorative bulbs with medium bases 40 watts and over? (got a chandelier? better check what type you use.....) And in July of 2012, many reflector and flood lights from 40-205 watts get banned. We are supposed to replace them with "CFL" energy saving bulbs, and while I use the CFL's in some lamps, I find them unsuitable for many applications. CFl's take a few minutes to warm up to full brightness - which is not acceptable for a flood light on a motion detector, or a closet or hallway where you need instant bright light. But the powers that be have determined we are unable to make the choice ourselves, so they are taking the choice away. (75, 60 and 40W regular bulbs go away within a couple of years as the phase out continues) I have been stocking up the past couple of years (the law was passed by congress in 2007) but I figured I'd pass along the info as many people are unaware. I wonder what they will ban next.........

Guns n' motorcycles? I thought it was guns, fast cars and fast women - but I could be mistaken....... Best to keep a low profile IMHO. I ride too, but no straight pipes or other attention getters for me. Minivans and SUV's are stealth four wheeled transport. Haven't gotten a speeding ticket in well over a decade even though I drive just as fast - but minus the muscle car........

Earlier today I met with Jack at the Ewing PD to hand in my application for a FID card and three handgun purchase permits. I must say that the experience was pleasant and positive. Jack is a great guy and he is apparently retired but works part time to handle the processing of firearms permits. I had the maximum number of permits requested (three) and he explained because of the 30 day waiting period, chances are I would not be able to actually purchase three handguns unless I had everything perfectly choreographed to buy my first gun the day they are issued and subsequent guns every 30 days thereafter. I explained that I did not really intend to purchase three guns, but put in the maximum "just because" I read on the intarwebs that you might as well even if you don't use them all. He chuckled and said, no problem. So I go to schedule an appointment with Safran Morphotrak to get my fingerprinting done and they are booked for two weeks!! At least they have an office right here in Ewing. I'm not in any hurry, so it is what it is I suppose. So while I wait for the fingerprinting and background checks, I can stew on what guns I would like to purchase. I am looking to get a small caliber pistol for target practice and plinking around. I've used a buddies Ruger MKII years ago, so a MKIII makes sense - but the choices are confusing. They go from basic models with polymer frames to rather expensive all stainless models. I'd prefer to buy something that's all metal, as I view a firearm as something that should last generations. But at the same time, inexpensive and reliable fun works for me too. So maybe polymer isn't so bad.... Along with the .22, I would like what I consider a "medium" sized gun for target shooting/home protection. The Ruger SR9 or P95 fits the bill although some of my friends scoff at a 9mm for home protection because of the "lack of stopping power". (I think it is plenty) Once again, these are polymer framed guns, but the 9mm will not see a fraction of the use the .22 will. Enough usage to be thoroughly familiar with the weapon, but I'm not rich enough to pop off 9mm rounds for fun. I guess the polymer frame is the trade off for a more affordable price. I've handled both the Ruger P85 and a Ruger MKII, and am familiar with the feel of these guns, so that's why I'm looking at the updated models. If anyone has any suggestions for similar types of guns, please chime in. I've got about $1,000 to spend on the two. (minus hearing protection and safety glasses) Any suggestions? Thanks! (sorry for the newbie q's y'all have seen a million times) TCinJ

Heck - even hit, your car is probably in better shape than the typical used car lot "bargain" that has 150K+ miles and has been rode hard and put away wet. I doubt it is totaled, as used cars keep their value in economic downturn. The only thing going against you is the above average mileage.

$3,300 - car is salvageable Sorry you got hit. Was the kid on the phone or texting? Do the cops even check phone records to determine?

That's what I thought. Well, there goes a few hundred bucks that I was going to use to buy a Ruger Mark III......... Maybe I'll get some of that muffler bandage stuff to see if I can't squeak it by one last time. The thing has 180K on it and I don't know how much longer it'll last although it runs pretty darned good and was maintained fairly well throughout its life. Thanks for the info!

I've got a old 1996 Nissan Pathfinder that is registered as a commercial vehicle. It is due for inspection but the muffler is leaking a little bit. (not bad at all) Will this cause me to fail inspection? (no MIL light on, everything else in good shape) A friend of mine has a beater minivan that passed with a bad muffler leak. They just plugged it in and the computer said everything was ok. I'm just wondering if the commercial plates make a difference.

Thanks for the warm welcome! Be prepared for all kinds of newbie questions! I was at the PD the other day and they gave me his schedule and their form package. Here I thought I did my homework and had the sts-033 and sp-066 all filled out. (but not signed) But then I find that they have three more forms to be filled out and one has to be notarized. The information seems to be redundant and the release authorization form looks scary. But you gotta do what you gotta do. I'll be calling him tomorrow to schedule an appointment. Hopefully he'll be able to see me the same day as I have everything filled out and notarized.

Hi everyone - just figured my first post should be in the introduction section! TC