Wasn't considering a big get together this winter like we have been doing, the consensus seemed to be Quemado in the summer was enough. I have a new job, others are busy...

But what the hell, mudhen and dennis want to do something, so at least us three... plus whoever else.

February 20/21/22... Tonto basin area, dispersed camping(meaning out in the desert no campground)... to be determined by Dennis scouting next week.

Close to the same area as last year but not at the lake.

Camping, shooting, eating and possibly drinking... you know...

All invited, be there or be square.

I'll have Saturday dinner and sunday breakfast, Dennis will have Friday dinner and Ben burritos saturday morning.

Kent

Kent:

I'll jump at the chance to get away from Colorado cold again. Put me and Patty on the list.

KC

That'll be great!

Kent

I have quite a few irons in the fire, but if I can make it, I will. That area is my old stomping grounds. Spent many a day there with a smile on my face.

more important kent, are you going to cook fish?

I think I have enough, my brother was fishing the last couple days, I'll see what he has also.

Kent

If I can make it I'll be there. Probably Colin too

Kent - thanks for doing this and for that which you and others are volunteering. Can't be certain yet but sure want to join you fine folks and will (and will bring stuff) if all goes well in the meantime.

I missed quemado last summer so looking forward to seeing you reprobates again.

Less formal planning, doubt we'll do a big group PM in the time allowed. Bring some shooting chit and bring yourself.

Anyone wanting hotel info contact Dennis or me and we'll give the info, there will be a hotel within a few miles and restaurants if our cooking sucks.

Kent

Bump

Is there anything for a non-drinker to do at these gatherings?

its worth going.....its not a drunk fest by any means....

Kent

Is Jack going?

If I'm not working, I will try to make it up there!

basically the only real drinking is done after the dinner meal sitting around the campfire -

quite a few none drinkers are always around

if at all possible - I'm in -- I've always enjoyed the time spent with guys from this group at other such events.

No one liked being supervised on every little fart etc at the campground last yr.

Should be a good time for anyone attending - most try to bring food or treats or items to be shared and enjoyed by others

I hoped to go last time but it didn't work so I'm going to try again. I bet everybody has a good time. Maybe see you then.

Ivan

Working down on the border that week. Would like to meet some of the new locals. Maybe next time.

Fetch drinks for the drinkers?

I had a great time last year, please put me on the list.

Saturday Dennis sets out steel for a big shoot with events. We should be in a spot where folks can shoot anytime.

Plenty of non drinkers, others enjoy sharing what they brought around the campfire in the evening, haven't seen anyone drunk yet.

Hope you can make it.

Kent

He has to take a guy javalina hunting in the same spot we took Sofie, is hoping to tag out early then make it to the camp.

Kent

Put me on the list Kent.

I can possibly make it. Can't say for sure right now.

Cool guys!

Keep it coming and after Dennis scouts out the exact location monday we will firm it all up.

We've been averaging 40+ but may not have that many on short notice, but there looks to be plenty coming already and more will be chiming in.

Prepare for a good time.

Kent

Heard from Ken - he got his courage up enough to be riding down with me. I'll be looking into accommodations.

I suggest we make a rule that Dennis cannot compete in the shooting event.

Hope Tom and Ron won't be able to make it .

Gonna try make it.

Looking forward to seeing everyone.

I fervently hope to disappoint you...

ah tom, darby is just being darby. I am a kinder and gentler person this year, and trying to resist those normal temptations that would lead me astray. One could ask if darby can actually make it down that far. Even I know the right kind of fuel to put in MY truck.

this is a little off topic, well maybe not. But in the 1800's the calvary trapped a bunch of indians in a cave up near that area, and shot them all. I have always been interested in going to that cave. I believe you need a boat to cross to where it's at. Anybody been there and know how to find it?

I've read that story too, didn't know that the actual location was known. I'd like to tag along for that.

I'm interested! Especially if I can get out of Turkey in time.

I'm in PA right now, had to make a unscheduled flight early wednesday morning. Funeral is Saturday and I should catch a flight back on Monday.

Hard telling if I'll be able to make it or not, but I know I'd sure like to see you folks.

Jon

HA! Now that's an idea!

I suppose the weather situation will be mostly dry so what temperature should we be expecting?

Here is a guesstamate:

http://www.accuweather.com/en/us/punkin-center-az/85541/february-weather/346862?monyr=2/1/2015

It is accessible only by boat on Canyon lake.

We're pulling for you Jon.

Summertime!

I haven't seen seventy degrees for a loooong time!

Ron,
I read an old book called "on the border with Crook" they talk about something like that with the Apaches. Could that be the same cave? I will have to go back and read that part again. It was written by John Burke who was one of Crooks junior officers and claims to have been with Crook through most of his campaigns against the indians.

Kent, I doubt that I will make it, but you never know. miles

I wouldn't bet against you.

Kent

Me neither.

Sounds just like the spot in "on the Border with Crook" for sure. I love that country!! Wishful I could be there with yall!!!

Skeleton cave above Canyon lake... they left the dead in the cave, a bunch, women and kids too.

Yavapai, who no longer claim to be Apache, but they did when I was a kid growing up and went to school with them.

Kent

Was kinda suprised when I found out that my GG grandmother who was a Gatewood had a nephew who was one Charles Gatewood. Actually I think he was a great nephew.

They called him big nose... Bse Chee or something like that.

Kent

That is true!! Oldest lieutenant in the US Army. Tough being a southerner in the army in those days.

It's complicated. some of them are, and some of them aren't, and there might have been a little more understanding, or respect, granted to an "Apache" in the 1960's or 1970's.

A really good book about the Yavapais is "Surviving Conquest" by Braatz.

I THINK I remember that Mike Burns, a well know Indian scout in later years was captured as a child a few days before the massacre, and therefore survived the destruction of his family and band.

Sycamore

My grandfather and his father homesteaded a few parcels in Geronimo country. Silver City, Alma, then sell them off, all while farming cotton in Safford and sometimes working for the mines in Clifton.

My dad was born there and took us boys deer hunting there when we were old enough. We'd hunt Eagle creek and Alma mesa, he'd say,' they had some big fights around here chasing Geronimo'.

Interesting as a kid chasing muleys in the pine and juniper canyons.

Kent

Weather should be from high 30s to low 70s unless a storm comes in, last year was perfect.

I won't be there till sometime saturday morning and stay till sunday. Dennis will setup friday.

Hotels close are Tonto Basin Inn and Pumpkin Center Lodge.

Best restaurant is the Butcher Hook, really good food, has a store, gas station and bar. Owned by the local rancher family and the beef is from there.

Kent

Up to about 25 that hope to make it so far.

Kent

I should be free that weekend. I'd like to swing by and put some faces to names...

Maybe make this a sticky?

Wife, brother and I are up at apache for a couple days.

Have fun

Topping out at Tortilla flats above Canyon lake, looking back, where Skeleton cave is a few miles, but many canyons away.

OK, I scouted some spots out today. Forest Service had some of the gates locked so I couldn't get into a couple spots that I had high hopes for.

This spot is directly across S.R. 188 from Punkin Center on F.R. 409. Proceed 1.75 miles to road end (well it splits) take right fork and go .4 miles to pull out where we will camp. Kent should be along to post more info and a google earth snapshot.

Ok, Dennis scouted out different area and the best combo of camp and shoot is here. Across from Pumpkin Center on the 409 FS road.

From the north come to Payson and down to 188... from the south/east come to Globe then up 188... from the phoenix area go up 87 and come down 188.

Thanks Dennis and Kent!

For those that want to virtual camp, the coordinates are:
33� 52.369' N
111� 20.786' W
Roughly 2700' MSL

Man......have a business trip scheduled those dates. Might have to see if I can move a few things around and make this happen.

Darned good of you fellers to set this up!

Hope you can make it.

Kent

Bacon?

Right now there are about 15 confirmed and another 20 that hope to make it.

I imagine the number to be around 25 to 30, usually we have 40ish but this was short notice.

Kent

Uhhh... Duuuh...

Kent

The only thing more sexy than the pool boy...

...is the bacon boy...

Kent

I got a new regulator for my stove so ALL 3 burners work now

Sig line material right there!

^^^^^SWEET!!!!

So lookin forward to another 'fire spring break.

TFF...

I'll bring some stuff.

We truly don't need coffee pots, cookware, stoves or lanterns.

I'll bring the big canopy also.

Gosh I wished I could join you guys & gals but bit of short notice. Have a son in the Queens Creek area so would be two birds with one stone. Have a great time and maybe next year
we can make it. Cheers NC

Could use a couple tables and some chairs. I have about 8 chairs.

Kent

I will bring a 6 foot folding table.

My daughter lives in Queencreek as do many of my friends.

We will probably have a few from your area coming along with some from Colorado.

Kent

Thanks Brian.

Kent

I can bring several folding tables. Camp chairs seem to be giving up the ghost. I started with six at the second Quemado gathering and am now down to three. Time for a trip to WalMart...

Once again, this falls on a weekend of too many things to do and not enough days to do it.
Have my boy in scouts going on a cold camp in Flagstaff and my cousin coming down from MN for champion R/C racing in Suprize. He will be borrowing my motorhome for his family that weekend.
One of these days I will get to come to another get together with you guys again.

Damn it Joe... you are a crappy event attender but a good dad for sure.

Kent

If I don't go on the cold camp, and I get everything set up for my cousin, I might be able to sneak away for a few hours and visit or camp Saturday night. Working on my options.

Hoping you can make it.

Kent & Dennis:

Remember that little travel trailer that I had last year? Can I pull that into the camp site?

KC

Yes, I have a fifth wheel and some others may have trailers, so that was important.

Kent

There is a good chance I will be there.

If you are still in San Diego, you're only 5 1/2 hours from my place and another hour to camp.

Kent

Our plan right now,is to leave early Saturday morning and get there in time for the BS'ing to really start flowing.

Better put your bogger tires on then...

Kent

Shouldn't be a problem. Road is only rough as you get into the camp itself.

Good idea.

Kent,

I would like to show up. Do some of the guys bring their wives or is this just a guy thing? Also what kind of shooting do you do, (pistols, rifles, shotguns???) Also what can I bring to help with the food etc.

Bart

Wives welcome, mine will be there, KC's wife Patty, Judy, Jon's wife if he can make it. More people show up at Quemado and there are lots of women there.

Main meals will be organized by Dennis, Ben and I, there will be other stuff to bring and we'll finalize who want's to bring what when we get a better feeling on the attendees about a week out.

Look forward to seeing you there.

Kent

Dennis runs the shoot, though there is plenty of shooting at any time and all kinds of guns used.

Kent

Fixed it for you.

OK DS, Scott put the bar way up there for ya'. Better be sharpened up - and make sure to shoot your own target.

To all - Dennis does a fine job - makes for lots of enjoyment.

Yes he does.

Unless the creek gets too high or the snow too deep, me and possibly two more of the pack will be there.

Ivan

Cool!

Kent

Make this a sticky Mr. RickBin. Please. Pretty Please.

Dammit! A month too early. Not headed that way with the passion pit until the next month to UT, CO, AZ, NM.

I wish I was going to be in Mesa this year, but have a project going here at home. I met some good people at last years get together.

I'm going up there this morning to help Jeff scout for javelina. I will try and take some photos.

Still no news on if I'll be able to make it. I'll be getting stateside on 4 feb. From there I'll need to pack my schit and drive to ABQ.

Hard telling if I'm gonna need to find a place to live etc... I might be shoulder deep in buying a house. I'll keep you guys posted. I'd really like to make it down there.

Hope you can make it Jm.

Campsite...

Sweet...

I see a spot for my tent, cooler, chair and lemonade stand...

Bacon stand...

Kent

oh yeah...

Ribs hurt I'm laffin so hard...

I think I have spotted a good place to park my old Alaskan, right next to the well.

As soon as Brian the bacon boy sets up camp, everyone crowds up close to him... not that I'm jealous or anything...

Kent

Not if Mles shows up and sets up the 8 year old Dickels with a cork stand...

Any prairie dogs down around there?

Not here, I think there are some in northern az.

Kent

Black-tailed prairie dogs in Arizona cannot be legally hunted. They were extirpated in Arizona during the last third of the twentieth century. They have been reintroduced in several areas in southeastern Arizona during the last few years and are protected.

Yeah, but those are Gunnison prairie dogs and they are federally listed as endangered.

Mud,

I think the Gunnisons in Arizona are legal. Seligman is the hot spot. There are some (were at least) closed areas where they re-introduced some black footed ferret, Aubrey Valley.

Season is July through March, and last half of June (so closed 2.5 months)

Sycamore

Oh that's making it tough! . Love that country!!! You fellas have a great time!!!

Yep, I stand corrected.

From the web site: "All mammals not classified as game mammals, predatory animals, or furbearers are considered "nongame mammals." These include opossums, coatis, black-footed ferrets, Gunnison's prairie dogs, black-tailed prairie dogs, wolves, jaguars, ocelots, and porcupines. Of these, only Gunnison's prairie dogs and coatis may be taken during an open season, with the bag limit on coatis being one per calendar year. No season for the taking of jaguars, ocelots, wolves, or porcupines exists.

You'd like it Bob, we may be camping on an old Salado ruin, if not there will be one close. Often I will pause when I cross one while hunting, squat and pick up a shard, look out to see what they saw every day of their life, imagining the smoke from thousands of ruins along the creek, babys crying, women grinding maze, hunters coming in... they were here and I'm here now... who will come after?

May the winds of good fortune blow across your family.

We'll be here again and there is always a place for old and new friends.

Kent

It is all dependent of what happens with my back. Had an MRI last week and hope to see the Doctor this week. MRI was ready Friday, but did not hear from the Doc as of yet. I doubt that I will be there, but maybe. There will be some Dickel, if I come. Darby and I will need to have a Drink over his Ohio State football team. Others can join in. miles

I had to go down to the radiology to get my MRI results after waiting to hear from the Dr. I had to call them to tell them the results.

Kent

Yeah, I swung by and got the other one on the way to the Dr. This Dr. ordered it, so I don't know if he told them to send it or I will have to pick it up. It is another damn waiting game. I sometimes think that they are hoping I will die or give up before they have to do something. miles

YOU"RE GONNA DIE!!!! need an MRI stat...

Week later... uuuhhh, am I gonna die?

[bleep] if we know, we been busy, you can go request your results, I'll check my computer later to see if they sent the results last week...

Kent

It is about the same way at a Dr. office that it was at our office at the Highway Department. Every time us field people heard from them, it was do this or that to make it easier for the office people. But when you went to the office they were all standing around talking and playing grab ass. miles

Thanks for putting the pics up Kent- There are a couple of spots to shoot handguns and rifles and a really sporting clays range. A few of you should bring your scatterguns and I will bring a case of clays and someone else can bring one. I will take a chainsaw and pick on Friday and make the road into the trailer spots better so KC doesn't tear the siding off his Airstream.

I found a better place for trailers but it was wide open, vegetation free and ugly. At least we have Buckhorn ridge in the background to look at and plenty of cedar and mesquite trees.

Dennis, thank you for all the effort you put into these great events.

OK couple more photos- not sure when I will get up there again.

Found this nearby while checking a spot out

I can't get it to rotate...

My photobucket isn't working this morning- it is unilaterally rotating photos to mess with me.


This is the shooting range

And the first parking space

Is any one going on Thursday?

I can't be there till saturday or late friday night. Dennis will go up friday. I was contemplating going up and setting my trailer up for Dennis and get the spot. Early in the week or the weekend before.

If you want to go up thursday and camp sit I will for sure have something there before hand.

Kent

I may go up Thursday night if Jeff wants to start his pig hunt then. At this point- I won't go up until Friday morning some time.

Wish I could be there. Perhaps Quemado.

Prepping for the get together and fired up the press...

Whatcha loading?

Hey Dennis, I am loading pistol rounds. Today was 158 lswc 38spcls.

Will try get some 45 acp and 45colt loaded.

Also gonna work up some medium warm 357s for k frames.

I'll have to send some components home with you and have you load me some 357s! I am all but out.

Damn it, hopefully next time.

Kent

I just may have the wherewithal to make this one,....

Dennis, how's that "impact area" look for 2 1/4" round balls ?

GTC

Even on short notice this is rounding out to be a humdinger of an event, we may get close to 40 yet.

Kent

It's the bacon...

Even this thread wasn't going anywhere till you mentioned bacon...

Kent

Dang, too bad Keith can't make it.

Anything goes here. The road veers away and if you can shoot far enough- you might hit the mountain!

The sporting clays range is off a ridge so your targets can fall 150' if wanted!

I had turkey 'medallions' wrapped in bacon for dinner tonight

No, that's good.

More bacon for the rest of us.

Greg - are you planning on sitting down?

I believe Dennis has a little gift for you. May the transfer could take place.

I still have it- been hoping we could get together this winter.

Scott, you gonna show up?

I am trying my best. It is the brother in law thing that might keep me home.

Hey Scott.

Maybe...

Just maybe...

I can give ya some incentive...

Ya need

any...

powder????

naw just use these two words in a sentence, long colt.

There may be an 1885 long colt in Arizona.

Hey Ron,

How was that?

don't know if you are interested, but got an email from midway today. They have 150grain sierra flatpoints for 30.30 in stock.
been a while.
if scott comes, i will bring
TWO stainless old style vacquero's with a matching double gun belt in seven inch, and a cross draw for a 4 3/4inch he can play with. Maybe even the marlin .45 colt cowboy rifle. And I believe you have one that belongs here or should belong here.

You can shoot clays with the 45 rifle!

krp, If some of these are still happening in 1,070 days, maybe I'll finally get to attend one! Wishing all of you a "GREAT" time!! memtb

You guys don't have to try to convince me. If the BIL improves I will be there. It is all up to him and the cancer in his brain.

I have been home, our Oregon home that is, sick in bed since Friday but my poor wife is still at the hospital holding her sister together for the last nine days straight.

I have been looking for TAC powder and yes I would love to shake hand with all your 45 LC pistols but non of you will let me adopt one.

off topic, but interesting little thing. Was fooling with a marlin lever in .41mag. It has the cross bolt safety. it will not allow you to load through the gate ammo unless you have the cross bolt on safe. Wierd.
lawyers are a wonderful thing, you have the cross bolt safety, the little button under the lever, a half cock hammer, and you might accidently load the gun without the safety being on?

There is a plan in the back of my evil conspiracy little mind. Fly to San Diego for work then since I am the president of the company I will do my best to convince the vice president we need to make a trip to AZ to chat with a few contractors about expanding into AZ. Since the trip could be dangerous we would both have to carry 1911s and maybe bring a rifle too. Five to six our drive each way in the company truck. The VP likes to shoot to and it great company.

Looks like it worked. There may be two of us there. The VP sounds like he took the bait.

Gonna need more bacon...

And cigars. His old man taught him well.

I bought an eight pound keg of TAC a few days ago so I'll bring a pound with me.

That would be great! How much do you want for it?

It's pretty cheap.

OK, I have a 358 Win just waiting for some loading and I understand TCA is the way to go. I am not saying it is hard to ge but in all my searching I have never seen a can.

Last time I was at Brunos he had several 8 pounders on the floor.

No way I could afford an eight pounder.

scott, bruno's is maybe ten minutes from my house, you want me to check and see if he has smaller cans?

Hey Ron,

Check for Unique while you are at it.

PLEASE!!!!

45 colt, about the only gun I would like to add, if I do it'll be both revolver and carbine.

Granddaughter looks like she will be left handed, at least writing, she throws with her right. Have to wait to see which eye is dominate before getting her a 22.

Kent

Got it covered. Thanks Ron.

It is still a big if bit if we get to come you will meet my baby of the six. He shoots lefty but writes with either hand. When he was learning to be an estimator the other estimators came to the boss and said he had to find Rob somewhere else to work. He did take-offs with both a pen and a high liner in each hand and went back and forth making notes with one hand while using the high liner and the pen in the other hand then he would switch. It gave then headaches to watch him.

I posted this elsewhere but thought you guys might get a kick out of it. I finally got a chance to shoot beyond 100 yards this winter. Jeff (Talus) and I went out and shot to 1000 yards; in the rain no less!

This steel plate was a 5 shot group at 1000 or 800- I forget which. First shot was the one in the middle- with a cold bore even! I should have stopped there.

No, I won't be shooting steel with it at Tonto- I'm just going to watch! [img:left][/img]

Nice post, Dennis. That's quite a first dent for 800/1000 - what was the bullet design and MV? Or is that steel from a Ford?

Not looking good for me guys. Turkish customs hosed me last week (changed the rules, they're famous for this) and its looking like i'm not going to be able to fly out of here on the 4th.

Katie got back to the states successfully from Kuwait today, but she's PISSED that I'm not going to make it back this week.

Its too bad, cause I REALLLLLYYYYYY want to shoot some guns.

Local vender still has primers for a decent price. Right now he has win or cci small pistol at $124 for 5000.

If anyone needs any let me know...

Ouch!

130 grain Norma Diamond at 3200 fps. Impact velocity was about 2030 fps.

Dennis were you guys shooting out at that spot I told Jeff about on the backside if Estrellas?

No, that place is tough to get to and all torn up. I am shooting in Superior.

Good Job Man !

GTC

real interesting event here, but 1100 miles in the saddle each way, for me...

so in other words I'm thinking about it...

Alrighty, The boy is not going scout camping that weekend and I can bring him out with me on Saturday for the day. It is also his B-day weekend so have to have him back Saturday night. He is looking forward to going shooting (I gave him the option of camping or shooting)and he asked me if we were bringing the pistols

Hope to be up there Saturday morning and spending the day with you guys. Is there anything we can bring for you guys? Clay pigeons, a slinger, shot shells??? Will be bringing a small variety of rifles and handguns to play with

Bring a box of clays maybe.

I will bring a couple over/unders, shells and clays so we can have some "sporting "clays.

I have two cases and I will bring a variety of scatterguns with me. And plenty of shells. Any other kids going to be there? I have a 20 gauge youth if needed.

OK, although I have been speaking to Dennis on this, I'm officially in again this year. I'll be there Friday & Saturday. I'll need to leave Saturday evening as I have to work on Sunday.

Dennis, I'm thinking that I'll be up there on Wednesday to get set up. After that, it's time to get out and scout for some pesky javelina....

I will be coming from Yuma, can someone give me some easy to follow directions? I will go up 87 then down 188, but not sure where to go after that. Any help would be greatly appreciated. I will also bring some things to help out (food, clays, beverages, etc.) Just let me know what is needed.

Bart

If you are not driving during Phoenix rush hour, best way is I8 to Gila Bend, then 85 straight up north to I10, then east through Phoenix to the 202 right after the tunnel. 202 continues east while the 10 turns SE, take the 202 to Country Club in Mesa, turn left on country club and you are now on 87, then to 188 and down.

Kent

anyone interested in...

I have a pound of IMR SR 4759

Anyone want this ?

Trying to figure out what to bring.

Well, after being the primary instigator of this edition of the winter Rondy, I have to bow out. A family obligation over in Texas that was supposed to take place in in early March has been rescheduled for the weekend of the 21st and 22nd of February. Unfortunately, it is not something that I can skip.

I will really miss getting together with all of you and, unfortunately, I don't see much opportunity to get the promised green chile burritos over there for the Saturday breakfast. I know that you guys are fast on your feet and will cope handily. I apologize for the last minute change of plans.

Sorry you cannot make it. You will be missed.

Bart- you take the right hand turn directly across the street from the southern turnoff to Punkin center. The Punkin center turnoff is on the east side, the road you need is on the west side.

Bunch of crazy stuff has happened in the past 72 hours. As I'm typing this I'm laying in a hotel room in Baltimore.

Made it out of there for good and should be enroute to ABQ next week sometime.

JUST might be able to make this one. Include me in the PM for it

Glad you made it back, I'm sure Katie is even gladder.

See ya there or be square...

Kent

You live the most fickle life. Nothing is ever status quo. I would have ulcers!

Hope you make it!

Ben, say it's not so ! You'll be missed this year.

vds

Alas I cannot squeeze it in - ya'll have fun!

Damnit!

Kent

Droppin' like fleas with a new dog collar...

Dang it I really want to be there. Got new rifle, new tent, dang it!!!

Yall have a grand time!!!

Paul:

Huh?

I looked it up.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/VDS

Still nothing.

KC

Loooking Goooood!

forcast

It's calling for rain

Another heads up...

Local vendor has Lil Gun in stock if anyone is interested and needs some.

From their Armslist ad...

Hodgdon Lil'Gun powder available in sizes reanging from 1 to 8 pound cans.
single cans $25, 4 pound cans $96.60 8 pound kegs $189
local sales only, no shipping provided

They changed it quick!

My wife just informed me that she is going to bring a Sopaipilla Cheesecake to the rondy.

Judy's way too good for you!

Kent

I know,she's letting me buy another .375 H&H.

I just read that Ben isn't going to make it......Ideas for breakfast??

I think Jeff and I will bring the breakfast trailer. If so, we will have a classic breakfast of bacon, eggs and pancakes.

Yep, just keep it simple. Probably have some tortillas for those that want to roll'm up.

Kent

Be good to her or you life could be....

I'm always good to her.

We will see what she says about that in a couple of weeks.

I am thinking she might need another diamond or two more than you need a new rifle.

You aren't playing fair.

See you in a coupla weeks.

I am thinking my wife would prefer a weapon of some sorts over a diamond.

But I know Judy.

I sure hope so. Flying right now would most likely blow out both my ear drums. My ears are plugged that bad. I am trying to get tubes in both ears next week.

Think positive Scott.

We'll be there late Saturday mornin'. Just in time for the serious BSin' to begin.

I'm planning on showing up on Friday afternoon. What would be the best foods, beverages, supplies etc to bring. I can help with the cooking if need be, whatever to help out. How many folks is it looking like.

Bart

Probably about 30 to 40. At the end of the week we'll ask for more commitment and make a list of stuff folks can bring.

Kent

I'll bring my appetite.

It's been a couple years since someone has irked me enough to spit in their food... Don't be that guy... again...

Kent

If anyone might be coming to this shindig through Raton, NM and willing to pick up a tent for me (huge favor), please send me a PM.

Thanks

Too many pages for me to read thru. Glad i seen this.
Depending on the mood, i may take the runts and wife for a drive up to day hi. Getting away for a day is needed so we just might make it up. Be saturday If we do. See if i take some fishing poles up.
Dennis isnt going to break his truck again is he?

That's cause I wasn't at the rondy last year and you weren't at Quemado last summer.

That... and Darby's been minding his manners...

Kent

Get up there! it's not at the same place as last year if you hadn't read that far.

Kent

True.

Might still break!

Well, true to form, our calendars (my wife's and mine) have been trashed, and I wonder why I bother to write anything on them at all. New developments among family in Alaska, Texas and New Mexico look like the end result will be that I am going to be alone that weekend and not in Texas, after all. I would rather be alone in the Tonto Basin with you good folks, so I am thinking that (barring further disruptions) I will be there after all.

What shooting contests are you cooking up?

I find out tomorrow if I can fly or not. 11:00 appointment wit new VA doctor.

OK, I just exhaled.


We will have two for sure, both PD shoots as they are easier to put on. A rimfire and an open.

Might try to do some kind of an informal steel shoot too.

I am grounded!

No flying until ENT says OK and no appointment yet with ENT. Dr said with my blockage I could do more than just loose ear drums, I could rupture a sinus.

My son and I were looking forward to being there but we are out.

Dang Scott, youse guys will be missed.

Dang Scott.

I feel the same way about the rest of you guys. I was really looking forward to this trip but I will set my sights on Quemado.

you could send chocolate.

you could send chocolate.

Bummer Scott, I was really looking forward to meeting you and shaking your hand. You are on top of my list of people from the fire to meet in person. You will be missed.
We will try and have fun without you.
The boy and I will be up there Saturday morning with lots of things to shoot. Should be a fun day for us.

NO! It is not that I don't trust you it is more like...

I guess it is that I don't trust you.

I feel the same way. There are several new faces I was looking forward to meeting.

Hope you get well soon Scott!

Kent

Thanks. Several referrals awaiting appointments. Time will tell if than fix the old guy.

Keep us updated Scott.

A week away, let's see how many are coming for both friday and saturday dinner and who's coming for just saturday. So we can plan food.

Looks like friday night will belong to Dennis... and saturday to me. Dennis has suggested to me what he may make and I'll let him say and ask for appropriate side dishes.

I'm making fish, potato salad and pull pork for saturday.

Once we have a number (approximate) for each dinner, we will know how much food to buy.

Thanks,

Kent

Judy and I will be there Saturday for supper.

Ha! two for me... I'm ahead of Dennis already...

Kent

I will be there Friday.

Ben

I still don't know if I can get there friday or saturday morning.

Kent

I likely won't know until mid-week. If it's mandatory OT like it has been I won't be able to make it.

Plannning on leaving Wednesday and being there either Wednesday or Thursday.

Gonna make the jaunt worthwhile.

As far as I can tell, you usually do.

My boy and I will be there Saturday morning and staying the day. Might be bringing another friend of mine, not sure yet if he can make it. Will be leaving Saturday evening as we have plans for Sunday all day with it being my boys b-day.

Hey Thomas, if you end up going, do you need a youth shotgun for your kids to shoot? I have one available if needed.

Joe, after the shoot we have dinner fairly quick, before dark.

Kent

Never said we weren't eating,,,,,,,,, You asked for a head count so, 2 with a possible 3

OK, I am making soda pop chicken and teriyaki chicken with cowboy beans. I was hoping for some potato salad too but maybe someone can suggest a wine that goes with this- slaw or salad or ??? Bacon?

I'll be coming in Friday afternoon 4 - 5 pm. What can I bring to help out. I'll bring potato salad, main dish, whatever, just let me know what will help. I can bring stuff for breakfast also.

Bart

Hope to get out Thursday, but Doug and I will be there both nights.

As expected, I will not be there. I have back surgery scheduled for Tuesday. miles

hope all goes well on that surgery Miles... and we all wish you a speedy recovery!

WOOHOO,,,,,,,,,, got the go a head to camp overnight with the boy. Just have to be back in time for the festivities, shouldn't be a problem. If there is anything that you guys can think of that I can bring to help just let me know.

Miles, hope all goes well with the surgery and recovery is quick.

Dang,well,there's Quemado in August.

We'll keep you in our thoughts & prayers Miles.

Miles, just get well by Quemado amigo.

Kent

Things we could use are...
Side dishes
eggs
couple dozen tortillas
potatoes
butter
milk
hot dogs
buns
paper plates
water in jugs
deserts
Anything you think folks will enjoy

Everyone should bring their own drinks and snacks.

Kent

Thanks for all the kind wishes. I hate to miss but it is something that must be done. miles

I will probably be there Friday PM and will bring some eggs and bottles of water.

About how many dozens of eggs should I bring?

Kent, I will bring some eggs, hot dogs, and tortillas.

5 dozen eggs will do it.

Please let us know how many if it's a party coming together.

Right now I'm at 22 that will be there and another 10+ that may make it... and more that won't be able to but wish they could.

Kent

I'll bring desert, shrimp salad, and some snack things

Am I still on for bacon or did Darby get the bacon-boy role?

Let me know what I can bring to help out.

still you

Making desert, and let Ken or I know if we need to bring anything else. We will be there Saturdaylate morning. (NO kids in tow either😱)

This is shaping up to be one fine event. The spirit is most eager but the circumstances are prohibitive - so will miss this one. Have a great time - know you will, and am a bit envious.

Dang.

Some of the things we will need are paper plates, plastic wear, coffee, styro cups, salsa, (what else am I forgetting, Kent?)

Paper plates/utinsels for sure. Could still use...

hot dog buns
buns for bbq pull pork
potatos
green chilis
coffee creamer
cole slaw
sour cream
water
side dishes?


I'm bringing...

fish
pulled pork
potato salad
salsa
condiments
seasonings
coffee
paper towels
some water
cleaning stuff

others are bringing...

oil
eggs
hot dogs
tortillas
deserts

BACON...

GREEN CHILI BURROS...

Everyone, please bring your own coffee cups, beverages and snacks.

Kent

I'll bring paper plates and plastic forks and knives also.

Bart

Will bring:
green chili (do you want it whole or chopped)
Cheesecake sopapilla desert (notice it has changed from fruit enchiladas)
I'll see what SAMS has for side dishes and bring something.

Judy

You guys have a great time.

Finally found one:

Scored one of these last week.

If I have any room left in my overloaded car I may bring some and a carbine dispenser.

Thanks Bart!



Whole chilis will be fine, 'Bacon boy' will put some in the eggs and I may roast them first.

Thanks Judy!

Kent

Ok Kent,Judy told me to tell you that the chiles are already roasted,she'll peel and de-seed them,so,they'll be RTG when we get there.

I will bring one qt jar of chilis I put up in September too. I have the beans about ready, and Jeff and I will hit Costco this morning and pick up the chicken.

Things I will provide

cooked chicken (both soda pop and teriyaki)
cowboy beans
bowls
plastic wear
napkins
pancakes &syrup
cooking oil and seasonings
scrambled eggs
10 loaves of bread
bear sausage

griddle trailer
grill for chicken
large dutch over for biscuits
two camp chef stoves and some water


For breakfast on Saturday, I still need butter and paper plates and jam, orange juice and milk.


I will have target stands, targets and some steel as well.

It is a little over 1200 miles from here to there so I will be headed that direction Wednesday morning and plan on arriving Friday PM. I will bring 5 dozen fresh eggs from the Hutterite colony here. Non better. I will also round up some water.

Anything else I can bring?

O, guess I will be traveling solo.

See ya'll then.

kent, or dennis, whoever has seen the camp area. Does it have public restroom facilities, or is it cathole time in the desert?

Bring your own log, Ron.

This is dispersed camping- no facilities. Sorry.

OK, a few have asked about the shoots. I will have two that I will put on. They will be similar to Paul's prairie dog shoots but with a twist that you will see when you get there. Nothing to fret over.

Tentatively, this is my plan:

Each participant will have a target, I will paste as many on the backers as will fit. You will put your name and whatever mark helps you to recognize your target- we had a ton of crossfires on the last rimfire shoot.

The rimfire shoot will be at 50-70 yards (depends on what I have for clear lanes) It will be 5-shots at a dot, smallest group wins. One bullet must cut the dot. Any rimfire sporting arm allowed. Any sights. No benchrest- any field or portable rest you can come up with that would be possibly used in the field. Front rest & bags allowed on ground or bipods etc. NO BENCHREST.

The open shoot will be ANY sporting firearm you want, any caliber, any sight and any position you want. One shot at a dot on the target with your name. Distance will be 150-200 yards depending on what I can set up. Closest to the center of the dot wins. If it is a tie, we will have a shoot-off.

Here are the changes from years past.
There will be NO coaching allowed. You will have 5 minutes (from when your name is announced) to COMPLETE your course of fire.
I will draw your names from hat (or equivalent random generator) to decide the order of shooters. We will then proceed in the order drawn. If you want to trade with someone for placement you can.

IF we do a competitive steel shoot, the firing ordered will have to be adhered to as there is a definite advantage to going last. IF we do a steel shoot, I will direct the shoot but will NOT participate. There will be no coaching during a steel shoot either.

You need to be sighted in before the time of the shoot so that they go quickly and smoothly. There is no reason both shoots can't be done in 1/2 hour tops. We will have plenty of time to practice and sight before hand but it would behoove you to bring a sighted in rifle with you rather than sort it out at the campout.

The steel shoot will depend on whether I can find suitable places for steel and will be similar to years past- colored plates with different values, no magnums and a time limit. I will have the the LaRue sniper target setup for practicing for sure.

Let's have fun first and foremost!

Fellas,a family issue has risen beyond our control and we won't be able make it to the rondy.

See you all at Quemado!

paul, if i did that, people would have to vacate at least 1/4mile.

Say it isn't so??

Just got off the phone with Ross (AZshooter) he just put his boat in the water at Rosey. Was 28° this morning at Punkin Center. Should warm up nice today and get warmer this weekend. Weather report says it's 49° which is way off- need to use Payson for the correct temp it looks- day time highs will be greater at Tonto basin though.

Just about set!
Should be there around noon, has anything been set there yet?

Is there a main camp/fire ring area?

I have a pop-up I will set up back away from the main area, I don't want to have to move.

Alrighty, Going to be up there late Friday night with the motor home. Will be bringing a pop-up canopy for shade, a couple of tables 6' and 4', a couple of 6 gallon water jugs for anyone that needs it. The camper is mostly stocked with the usual household supplies, paper plates, cooking utensils and what not. Any last minute things anyone needs let me know, I can pick them up on our way in.

The shoot sounds like fun. Hope my low budget led slingers can keep up with all of your fancy high dollar shootin irons.

Am also bringing and assortment of targets.
Also bringing a few bundles of wood, we can have a campfire right, no restrictions yet?

Yes,it is so.

I hope it isn't a very big motorhome! This isn't a good spot for RVs. You may have to use one of the pull-outs before the spot. It is hard to find a decent spot to camp where we can still shoot. I couldn't find a camper spot that wasn't down in the cactus and had any shooting. I am going tomorrow and try and clear some trails. Kent is bringing his trailer and I think KC is bringing his- both are not big trailers. I don't want anyone tearing their aluminum skin off on a mesquite tree! I'll see what I can do.

Gonna try to be there by noon. Will bring the usual truckload of odds and ends, but nothing important. Wife is busy taking care of sick friends and her fading Mom, so no green chile burritos this year. Will try to pick up some munchies, etc., on the way.

Heading out early in the morn tommorrow.

Have bacon on board

Dang car seems to get smaller every year...

Drive safe.

If you'd put a 'bacon on board' sign in the rear window... you'd get a police escort all the way down...

Kent

I'll have a cigar and think about the fun you all are having Saturday.

I got released from the hospital a couple of hours ago and instead of going home (possible ice on roads), I am in a motel room watching the Razorback/Mizzou basketball game. I will go on home around midday tomorrow. Right now the operation is looking good. The pain in my hip that kept me form sleeping is not there anymore and it seems that I am walking a lot better. Pain still in lower back from the operation so it will be a few days until I know the whole story on success. Halftime now and if I don't get sleepy I might stay on line a while. miles

Great news!

Dittos...

Great news Miles.

No dice for me guys.
Work isn't the issue here this go 'round. We put an offer on a new house the other day. After a bit of back and forth we are in escrow as of today. We have an inspection and other stuff to take care of this weekend.

I hope you guys have a great time, and good shooting!

Sorry to hear, Tom.

Mile- take care. We'll see you at Ed's ?

Headed up...

Kent

Damn! That looks like a great time.

Quit the gallery!!!! The usual suspects! Thanks for pics!

Good times! It's good to see Ken there! I wish I was there.

Ed

Looked like a great time.

can you believe one of your buddies from up north left a certain 1911 style thing in my truck for a large part of the day. Wasn't chocolate t ho, or i might have forgot and drove home with it.

And best of all Kent cooked up a mess of that roosevelt bass fillets. It's worth the drive u p there just for that.

With all the hardware present, I think the star of the show was a old mosin nagant.

I am sitting here in Oregon crying in my coffee. Ears still to plugged up to fly.

Double ditto's on seeing Ken out. I sure hated to miss this shindig, but I think it is going to be worthwhile. Seeing several people that I don't think I have met, and that is a bummer. I do have my sights set on Ed's place and hope to see several of you there. miles

Looks like it is/was a great time. Sorry to have missed it, but was needed elsewhere.

miles, a certain fellow who we both know had this poem with lessons on life that he intended to give you. Since you weren't there, he gave it to me.
I probably should scan and post it here with attribution. But i will restrain my baser instincts and not do that.

guess by now you kinda figured I was a no show - relatives in town

looks like fun
say hello to all those whom might ask where is gary

safe road trip home everybody

Again, another great "fire time.

Sitting here in Payson, AZ checking the weather in Colorado.

Think I am headed to Quemado and wait the snow storm out.

Oh,

and my shoulder is suffering from Mosinitus.

The ol' Russian veteran guided by Paladin hit the 350 yard steel with open sights.

Good food, good shootin, and great meeting new folks and seeing 'fire friends again.

Brian- safe travels driving home. Watch out for that Storm. I was so windy on my drive home that it blew 2 of my boxes apart and I rained paper goods on a couple of folks!

I think you guys wore Ruby out- she was exhausted from trying to avoid being dognapped by Darby

Got in the driving mode yesterday and drove straight home.

Once I hit the "snow" zone there were only a hand full of cars out so it wasn't too bad. Sure would have been a lot worse today in traffic.

Oh yeah, it was 8 degrees out this morning...brrr...

Thank you to everyone for a great time.

Brian,

Ivan and I have been waiting for you to show up so we could eat since you said you were coming to Quemado. We haven't eaten since yesterday figuring you would show at any minute with the bacon.

Just kidding of course. Don't know how you managed to invoke the snow but we made it here without a trace. Sunny and partly cloudy now. You should have stopped by.

Glad to see you made it home safe.

You are a road warrior, Brian.

Got home just after midnight this evening...spent the night last night in Nevada somewhere..... it was about 9 degrees according to the weather report on the radio this morning...heavy wind blowing also...

cleared up this morning around 10 or so... pleasant but long drive home from that point...1300 miles in a day and a half can wear ya out...

Thanks for the boys who put it on and set it up...was the last to leave, and someone forgot a Trash Can full of Charcoal...

twas good seeing a batch of good friends once again...

Glad you made it back. Dennis will have to go back for the charcoal. Overall the lost and found list was short this year.

Kent

She must be REALLY worn out! Hard to believe! HA! Quite the doggie.

Yes, she is!