It's that time again! We've all forgotten about the miserable weather from last year and pray for a bit warmer weather this year!

We are looking to have the Gathering at our place again, just west of the big city of Gilmer, TX, but a bit later in April due to scheduling conflicts here.

Looks like the Friday, Saturday, Sunday, April 24, 25, and 26 will be the dates.

I am hoping that everyone who was here last year can make it again and those who couldn't make it, will be able to join us!

There will be eating, drinking, lie telling, singing (if I can get curdog4570 to bring his guitar ) rifle, handgun, and shotgun shooting, bullshooting (different from lying ), fishing, archery, and a snipe hunt.

We can shoot out to 350 yards and will have several shooting contests set up.

The Prairie Dog Shoot will be featured, any rifle, any caliber, any sights or optics, any position, one shot, cold bore at a 1/2" orange dot on a life-size silhouette of a prairie dog at 200 yards. Closest to the center of the dot wins. Ties will be decided by a shoot-off.

Last year, we had planned on a military rifle shoot, traditional archery shoot, an Elk Shoot, and a pistol duel (using a dueling tree, not each other! )but we got weathered out. Those are options again as well as any other suggestions y'all might have.

Oh, we HAVE to have a BPCR shoot! ( I think I'll drop a hammer on sharpsguy's hands a couple of times to handicap him. Accidently, of course. )

Kids are welcome as this is a family affair. There is plenty of camping spots available, a couple of beds inside the "Barn House", and hotels in Gilmer, roughly 15 miles away if that's your idea of "roughing it".

I expect most folks to come in on Friday, the 24th, and most folks stay until Sunday afternoon.

Once we have an idea of how many folks can come, we will start looking seriously at the menus and accoutrements.

We had a great time last year and I think this year will be even better! I hope y'all can make it!

Ed

Cool! Sounds like fun. And I probably don't even need to bring table, or chairs, or cooking pans...

Havta see what the future holds. Things are still hectic. But I got it on my calendar.

You mean Barbara didn't leave you on account of the last one?

Not exactly, but he has been spending a lot of time in South Texas.

Not sure how my future is going to be, I was at the back Doctor yesterday and he is going to call in the next few days with an operation date. Said lots of stuff wrong with my back but he is just going to try to fix a little of it this time. If possible, I will be there. miles

The only complaint I had was the eggs were late in the morning.
Someone needs to wake that guy up about 6 am this time. Or even 5. Cook needs to be awake to cook.

Oh the morning cook will be there.

And he will site in the rifle this time. Makes shooting the PD a little easier.

"Make that three hard boiled eggs."

"Do you have stewed prunes?"

No, but I know where a Hamm's beer is...

I hope you can make it, Bob. Prayers continue for y'all.

Ed

That can be arranged!

Ed

Well, she's the one who has kept asking "when are we going to have the next one?"

Are you bringing the lovely Peggy with you this time? She's a LOT better looking than you and has better manners, to boot.

Ed

I'm out Ed. I'll be in Orange shooting that weekend.

You're hurting the one good feeler I had left, you know.

I'm truly sorry you won't be there, but I understand that fame and fortune come before us mere mortals.

Ed

I have to check the kids calendar. But, I'm not going to let the in-laws cancel me this year.

Dave

Y'all have a big time!

Hey, I woke you up at the time requested. Just for hurting my feelers, I refuse to cook bacon in a Wok again. Just kidding that worked out fine, except for David eating it half raw. miles

eating it half raw... I dont' let it get warm... its ham after all....

I keep telling everybody how tough it is to be me. Nobody understands but you Ed.

Well I'm not a real cook so I didn't know everyone would be up looking at me wondering where the eggs and bacon were. But I got busy real quick. With the help of some of the ladies, Miles and Patrick we got it done and eaten. Ladies even washed dishes.

Does the cook have to wash his hands, put on long pants and use a clean skillet?

Weather was cool and wet, so was dressed.
I believe I washed hands and can cook 36 eggs in a wok, had two of them, one for bacon and an electric for the eggs. Worked out good. Ed's got a real neat set up for this type deal.
It's northeast TX so lots of rain that year. Not this year, going to be perfect that weekend.

to add: All the rain that weekend will be down in SE area of TX, Orange area.

no, it ain't. bacon needs to be cooked.

Long pants, anyway...

Don't you put that mojo on me.

lol

Man you are starting to channel Travis and it is skeering me

crispy!

Sounds like a blast Ed, I need to make this one, at least for the BPCR shoot, I'll see if Sharpsguy will ride with me for some shooting lessons.

Yes, crispy..................and peppered.

chewy

And yes to another Sharps

and I agree

To quote our Firearms Unit Motto; "If you ain't miserable, you ain't trainin'!".

Ed

. Wash hands BEFORE cooking, yes. Afterwards, it's your choice.

The long pants part depends on whether you enjoy having folks laugh at you or with you...

Ed

SACRILEGE!! And Blasphemy. I expected better from the two of you.

You might as well be a Jew or a Muslim.

[I can get by with saying that since Paladin feels the same way and he'll likely be there WITH HIS 475 LINEBAUGH ]

I told her it was a stag deal this year. She showed me up too bad on the pistol shooting last year.

And who's fault was that?

Ed

Ed sent you a text message last night.

SACRILEGE!! And Blasphemy. I expected better from the two of you.

You might as well be a Jew or a Muslim.

[I can get by with saying that since Paladin feels the same way and he'll likely be there WITH HIS 475 LINEBAUGH ] [/quote
]Actually our bacon is cured just like the ham. And then smoked. ANd left to dry... its edible as is. I eat quite a bit as is too, but I do like it fried. But just a bit... still like it nice and well, lets say maybe Medium... a bit of crisp on the outer edge and its more than well done enough.

medium, then, in lieu of chewy...

Not sure why I'm worried about it, Miles cooked it all last year

And it all disappeared. The raw, the medium and the well done, all gone. When it got to a particular persons doneness, they got some and ate it, and I kept adding bacon to the Wok. miles

The sacred never-ending wok of bacon!!!!

The 2 greatest meals I've ever eaten were chewy pepper bacon with cinnamon toast crunch and brisket with a glazed donut.

I like mine chewy.

LOL, gotta firm up that fat.................okay, 'semi-crispy'

you have crossed over to the darkside!

Ed, Rattlesnake said we would be there, unless something awful bad happens.

So count us in!

Randy, you going to camp this time?

Outstanding, Randy! Looking forward to it!

Ed

We hope to. That driving back and forth last year was the pits, but that was the only way, I could make it.

OK, let's get the bacon deal straight.

Left to warm on a rock in the sun, bacon is good, but a bit chewy.

Cooked ever so slightly, until the fat is starting to clear up with a hint of browning along the edges, where the fat melts away with each bite, the meat warming to a nice pink and firming just enough to add a bit of texture, delicate and tender, is just right.

Cooked until the entire slice is one third the size it started and is browned, brittle, and when dropped shatters like a glass Christmas ornament is, well, that is just wrong.

There is an art to cooking, as well as eating, bacon.

Next time any of us meet up, remind me and I'll tell about the time I salvaged about 75 pounds from a dumpster behind a grocery store. Don't want to make it look like I do such things for a living on a public forum.

I may have to send "The Warden" - she wants to go, but I'll probably still be feeding yearlings.
I'd like to watch the cook frying bacon in shorts! What a dance!

Well Miles Patton is the bacon cook.
Patrick is the sauage cook
We are looking for the an egg cook----------

Hopefully I can make it this year.

I sure don't want to see Miles in shorts!

me too

No one was in shorts. Little cool in the pine trees for that.

Would like to make it and meet some of you guys, but I won't know until closer to that time if I can make it.

I hope so, too, Pat. You were missed last year, but we did talk about you.

Ed

Better to be talked about than not. I was really bummed about not making it last year.

Pat your the guy to ask on this. Seems clay targets have on the outside of the box to not use in fields where horses etc. can eat the remains. Do you know if any clay's are made that are livestock (horses) safe.

I don't Gordy, but I thought they were only unsafe for swine?

Gordon, it was hogs. The pitch used in old ones were toxic to hogs. But I think they are all enviro safe now for all animals. They don't seem to bother the kids cows any.

They don't bother hogs either. We tried it.

^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^Double trouble, this.^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^

How would you know.......

!

OK, these are highly trained horses, so was wondering.

Triple trouble?

Trained to eat clay targets??????

eye ken reed.

All long in the tooth but harmless as can be.

Gun ner, r u go in?

Yeah, best drag up a stump and come on Eyeball

Bob, no but would be shot by owner who is a very nice person. You have met her.

Have met the other two. Your next Jerry. Need to shoot the Sharps twice. Once down south, once up North East.
Don't want to get hook on the Sharps, etc., etc.,

10-4, dont inhale the 'Holy Black' for you will be forever HOOKED.

BWAAHAHAHAHAHA

I have looked. ET started this mess didn't he.

You too?

Yes, he did. lol

The only shorts that I will be wearing is my underwear, under my jeans. miles

GOOD!

He's an evil, evil man!

Ed

There was a time I felt that I really needed a Sharps rifle. But I got over it.

Ed has a really nice place....... I think.

Can't see much of it on account of the damn trees.

Lots of trees!!!

Me too, then I went outside and it seemed all the buffalo and Indians were long gone. miles

I'm hoping the rain goes away for that weekend.

I'm just hoping I can faniggle a way to get there. New tent, new rifle, and got a new hat too! Not looking good. I found out last week they are gonna finnally release mom from rehab hospital where she was for her fall, on the 24th of this month. So that means she's gonna be moving in with us too! I'm Just gonna go ahead and open up a nursing home here.

Get you a good staff and then come on up. Prayers from Arkansas for all of them. miles

You and your daughter going to need a break at times.
Remember that. I do understand your thought process on two loved ones, but you both will need some kind of break. You got that, stress will get you both.

I know! Thanks! Just gotta try to get the logistics of all this figgered out.

BOB...BOB, listen carefully...Miles means to hire some good people to help, not get a big stick!

You let those wimmen-folk get ahold of a big stick and they'll wear it out on your head!

Seriously, prayers continue from here.

Ed

Ed, you did not know that I knew big words like that, did you? miles

I checked the soccer schedule. It is over the week before.

Looks like I'm in at the moment.

I'll have to write it on my wifes calendar.

Yes, he and Sharpsguy are a dangerous duo.

LOL, I saw Indians today and had buffler cutlets and pan gravy for supper.

Do I need to get a sharps to come visit? miles

No, just a small notice and a BIG appetite.

I usually have the latter. miles

I constantly do.

I guess we should have a couple of extra dozen eggs for your breakfast along with five pounds of bacon and a couple of loaves of bread, a whole hog for lunch, and a slow-roasted steer for supper?

Shall we make the tea in a five gallon bucket or a 55 gallon drum?

Ed

I've still got some shoats in the freezer. Now if only I can make it there!!!

Could your shoats possible catch a ride with someone else? Send Mike and the shoats. I will watch after them. miles

I sure hope you can, Bob!

Ed

Sure hope you can make it! There will be some great folks there and a great time.

Ed

No, , one of KW's shoats buried in the coals will be a plenty.

LOL! If Blue was coming, I'd get home to stop by and I'd give em to him. Btw James shot a middlin' size hog on his place last evening with his .35 Whelen. DIL told me now he can finish her sausage he was promising!

I'm sure hoping Blue can make it!

Haven't heard a word out of Brother Bart or some of the other folks who weren't able to make it last year, either.

I guess I'll have to PM them with a personal invite.

Ed

we hope to make it. i can cook eggs too! we will have a cooler of venison - smoked sausage, tenderloin, cubed and ground. what cooking utensils/pots/pans are needed?

That would be great!

The folks that have been doing the cooking have been bringing most of their own stuff to cook with and we have several large pans available including a new cast iron Dutch oven and Wtxj left his large cast iron dutch oven here last year. I also have a cast iron griddle that fits on a gas burner. tex n cal left a nice ceramic frying pan here also, last year, and it needs to be broken in properly.

I guess the most critical utensil(s) would be large serving spoons, spatula(s), and serving forks.

Ed

,

Well the Campfire Hog Hunt is in late March, which should generate plenty of sausage for the Gathering

Went to the range today. At 100 yards the best 3 shot group from the Shiloh beat the best from the .300 Weatherby Which is encouraging for the Shiloh, and damned annoying for the Roy

I did try some Reloader 26 in the Roy, with 210 grain Long Range Accubonds. I wasn't happy with the accuracy, but they certainly were going faster than Nosler says they will.

The first load I tried in my Sharps is slightly better than MOA with iron sights at both 300 meters and 400 meters. Tough for my Model 700 in .30-06 to better that.

Can't wait for the Gathering!

Ed

Good thing I'm not going, y'all would just embarrass me with all this "hit what you're aiming at" business.

Uff I think you may outshoot me. I did at least get a load that is extremely consistent on velocity. Now I think the rest is learning to shoot it.

What front sight are you using?

we can handle that.

A 1971 copper penny, shaped and placed by sharpsguy.

Ed

somehow I knew you were gonna say that...

Load em up Ed. I want to shoot it once in April.

19th century fiber optics.

And just as effective. I tried using the factory blade, but when sharpsguy placed that shaped penny in place, it was like night and day.

The copper reflects light much differently than the nickle-silver does and shows up in contrast much better. There's a reason the "Old Guys" did things.

I need to mix up some more "secret recipe" lube when i get back home and get in some practice. I notice that tex n cal has been practicing and I don't want to lose on my own turf.

Ed

Patrick,

Have you shot that Model 20 Savage withthe new front sight yet? If so, how did it work out?

Hi Bob - I did indeed. It worked fine, after I remembered to take itty bitty screwdrivers to the range with me, to adjust the rear sight. I need to do some serious load development for it, although .300 Savages are normally pretty easy to sort out. I carried it some deer hunting, but took no shots with it.

I also carried the 1907 a few times too, but didn't shoot anything with it. I'll try to bring both to the gather. The 1907 is an unusual gun contraption to shoot, and makes you appreciate AR-15's

Don't remove the recoil spring ever in that 1907!!!!!! You will curse the day you were born! LOL! They are fun!!

I'm glad that sight worked out ok! I have rifles I would like to bring, it's just getting there will be the hard part!!!

I have indeed taken apart both of the two I own. Luckily the room needed the walls repainting, anyway, when I took the first one apart.

One of these days I need to find that box of parts and put the old 1907 back together. It is heavily worn, and in fact the recoil spring had a large amount of visible mechanical wear on it, and needs replacing.

The better of the two:



That one had a firing pin gummed & stuck, which I discovered before shooting it. That one I only took apart from the back end

I guess I should develop some loads for it. The first ones I tried did about 3 inches at 50 yards, and then started stringing upward as the barrel warmed. I guess that was intended to correct your hold on escaping convicts, as they got farther away

Nice looking rifle Pat

What are you bringing to shoot, Gordon?

Ed

All I have is a 308 Rem, same one from last year that was not sighted in at 250. Maybe a 30/40 again that you shot last year.
Maybe the 6.5 x 55
Or the 45-70 lever,
I don't know.
Or the S & W 686 I bought in Oct, still new in the box, needs to be shot.
Will bring two Woks. 5x18 eggs for sure.
And the Jeep so I can drive to range this time.
Bottle of Becky

What's the matter, you didn't like my tractor driving the hay wagon last year?

Ed

Tractor driving was fine.
Gear was left back at my truck I needed, long walk back. Sighting in time was lost. I lost in the shoot.
Going to bring a table also. This is you don't mind me driving back to that field.

Gunner 500
As you and Ed to many letters are talking big guns on the other thread.
Remember you will need one rifle or pistol that will shoot a dime at 250 yards. That will win the one that counts. I believe that cold barrel one shot contest worked out great. I didn't win, but still had fun. That's not your dime either, it's the targets dime.

LOL, I'll be trying to hit it with full buckhorn barrel sights on a Sharps rifle.

You fellas sound like you have lots of fun. Would you accept an Okie at this shindig?

They're lettin my sorry butt in, come on down Sig.

Thanks gunner.

It is my understanding that all are welcome, no matter their handicaps. miles

It's true! All are welcome, although anyone from Oklahoma may want to get vaccinated before crossing the Red River. You never know what you might wind up with down here.

Ed

We DO have fun! We plan on having a lot more fun this year!

Get yourself down here.

Ed

Yeah.... once you let the coonasses in, where can you draw a line ?

I've even invited Yankees! How's that for celebrating diversity?

Ed

You guys are pretty convincing and I'm up to date on my shots so I'll hook up the R POD and head that way.

Outstanding!

I had to Google R POD. Those are cool trailers!

Ed

Hey! I resemble that, and those are almost fighten words.

I challenge you to a duel!!!

A duel? COOL! That tops last year's entertainment!

We have to get a good guitarist to play a theme song from a spaghetti western. Maybe "The Good, the Bad, and The Ugly"?

Randy, you challenged Gene, that means he gets choice of weapons!

Sledgehammers in 5' of water? Railroad ties in deep sand? Deep fryers at 30 paces?

Ed

Me too. They are neat, but for me would have to go with the Casa brand. Think they are made down in Huntsville, right off of I-45 I see them. Seems as I was going too attach an address I have forgotten the real name of this little trailer. All I know is I see the manufacturing site when going down I 45 about 1/2 the way to Houston.

Casita

http://casitatraveltrailers.com/

Just a place to put your head at night, the small one.

I looked at the Casita hard before making this decision. It wasn't an easy one. One of the big difference makers is there is a local dealer for the R POD.

Um hea all just how far is this gathering place from TX , AR . OK line ?

When you get there would like a tour if we have time. Ed keeps us busy.

I don't know. Gilmer, Tx. Look that up on mapping software.

It's about 90 miles from Texarkana to our place. It takes me about 1.5 hours just loafing along. Less if I drive as I usually do.

Ed

Yup, that's me, the old slavedriver! LIft that barge, tote that bale, get me a drink, put those targets up, cook that food!

Ed

Really ED did all the work.
All set up when I found his house.
I just sat around. That's where the busy came in.

My door is generally open so you're welcome to step in.

Will the trailers and campers be set up at the site or do they need to be at an rv park?

Not sure about the future , but this is the closest "garthering" I seen yet on my time here. If all is invited? Mrs might be able to come with if that's ok ? Hotels in the area or tent it ? we don't have a camper at this time

Ed, your thinking wrong... Since CD4570 and I are 'Refined Gentlemen', I feel sure that the choice of weapons could only be appreciated by 'men of our caliber'.

There are a number of places to set up a trailer/camper at our place and not be jammed in, side-by-side. We looked like an RV park last year.

Ed

Absolutely bring the Missus! My bride's feelings would be hurt if other ladies didn't come and we SURE don't want to hurt her feelings!

There were a number of the "fairer sex" at last year's Gathering and all seemed to enjoy themselves.

There are hotels in Gilmer, roughly 15 miles from our place, but there are also plenty of tent spots here. Your choice. Hopefully, this year won't be cold and raining like last year. Of course, we're hosting this thing three weeks later in the year this time.

Ed

WHEW! "Refined Gentlemen"? I'm glad I'm wearing boots! I think I'll go put on my hip waders...

Ed

Thank you sir I'll keep in touch

Well that did tend to bring us closer together. miles

I used one of those tent cot deals. Leaked so I put a 10x 12 plastic tarp over it to keep out what rain I could. Worked so well that the cook for breakfast was late to get up. I slept fine.
Ed's place is set up with a bathroom outdoors in a building. He also rented a blue bathroom out in a parking area where many set up tents.
Ed has a neat home/land set up in the pine trees. Small lake and one big pasture for the shooting with a hill as the backstop.

Thanks Ed.

What type of shooting contests so we want this year, other than the Prairie Dog Shoot?

Military Rifle Shoot? BPCR? Long range (200 yards) .22lr shoot?

Ed

poodle shooter shoot?

We shoot at shooters?

Ed

Well on the PDS I would like each person to shoot their own rifle only. Military sounds good, except Bob would win that one.
How about a Sharps at 200 shoot off. 8" steel, hit it you get to continue. Pistol at 100 yards, min. bore of 41 and up.
None I can win but it will be fun watching. Yes and shooting.

Thanks, Gordon!

200 yards at an 8" gong with barrel sights on a Sharps is a chip shot. I know of several Shiloh Sharps that will be there and all are 1/2 moa guns. Gonna have to come up with something that is more challenging.

As to the PDS, the fellow who took 3rd place last spring did so with a borrowed rifle because he didn't have one, so I'm kinda leaning towards allowing folks to borrow one.
We can put a little "group-loosening solvent" in Bob's coffee to help there, but if Blue shows up, I ain't gonna be the one to doctor his coffee!
As to the pistol shooting, Paladin, curdog4570, Blue, and a couple of others would make us move it out to 200 yards + just to keep it sporting! Them boys can shoot!

If we do have a military rifle shoot, we need some guidance such as any era, any sights, any caliber, and course of fire.

What say you guys? We need some help here!

Ed

I think I've got a Krag Jorgenson or two laying around here for an army gun shoot.

Or a 1903

I just gotta get there. Wifey is starting at the physical therapy hospital Monday. Woohoo!! But I still have mom to deal with too.

Bob

Al Sharpton and Jesse Jackson Mooning People Targets at say 200 yds with rimfires?

Still praying here, Bob. I sure hope you can make it. I have a sporterized 1917 Eddystone that only has barrel sights. That and an AR15 are my only "military" rifles.
I don't think my Contender Carbine in .30-40 Krag would qualify.

Ed

No way! they need BIG holes in their butts - need Cross & his cannon!

We are trying to send those same vibes back your way too!

I've also got a nice M1917 Winchester mfg "enfield". But I really wanna drag my two '95's out of I'm able to make it. And maybe my old Win 54 and this cool old Mauser sporter I have. I haven't had the opportunity with all the current stuff going on to shoot them as much as I would like.

lessee, pistol at 200 yards, min .41 caliber..scopes okay?

I do have a pretty cool old sporterized 03A3. Hopefully the bulge in the barrel will hold for a few more shots...

anyone know anything about K31 Swiss rifles? The local Gander mtn has some for $399. I've heard they are very well made but have never messed with one

And I guess a Mk12 Daniel Defense wouldn't qualify as "military" would it?

Patrick,
I have a K31. It is one of the best shooting rifles I've ever fired!!! I just don't shoot it much. Have a decent supply of that GP100 Swiss ammo laid in. I suppose I have it for a "rainy day", so to speak.

Some were curious as to what my R-Pod is...

Nice looking trailer. Not the one I looked at on their web page.

The graphics on the 2015 models has changed quite a bit. It's a nice trailer, perfect for 2 people. I dragged it to WY last fall on my mule deer/pronghorn hunt. It worked very well.

No scopes on pistols. Iron sights or nothin', buddy!

There is a K31 match held locally every spring and folks come from all over to shoot in it. Seems they are very accurate and there's a lot of reloading and casting information out there for them.

Ed

"Randy, you challenged Gene, that means he gets choice of weapons!"

After giving this the amount of attention which it deserves, I've made my choice :

It will be "Negroshooters", using the rules in effect in 1950.

1. Weapons must be made by the duelist himself.

2. No fair using the red rubber inner tubes for material.

3. Stock must be a forked branch from any type tree.

4. Projectiles must be picked up on site. [no fair using the spent bullets which litter the landscape at Ed's place]

5. Duelers face off at 200 yards and advance toward the other, with "Seconds" accompanying them.

6. Shooting commences with the first step and continues until they both get tired.

7. Hiding behind "Seconds" is frowned on, but not impermissible. [Miles is MY Second]

I don't know if you can hit each other at 190 yards.

I accept the challenge and I choose Blue (Rio7) as my second...

but, I never heard of a 'Negroshooter'!

I don't know if you can hit each other at 190 yards. [/quote]

You're catching on.

Try getting the real word past the "censor". Besides...... you KNEW what I was talking about, so it worked.

Does Blue know that the Seconds MUST be unarmed?

What are you... a politician? It doesnt say anything about the 2nds being 'unarmed' in the rules... Stop changing the rules as you go, you dont have 'executive order' privileges.

What happens if one was to 'break the rules'?

How about 'verbally admitting, out loud in English, to all present, and in front of witnesses provided by the winner', that the .270 Win is the best all around rifle made, is his favorite caliber rifle, and he wishes he owned at least 1 more.

1. I was older than you in 1950 and so I remember the rules better.

2. The duel is taking place in Texas... so Texas rules apply.

3. You are attempting to gain an unfair advantage since Blue shoots bigger guns than Miles does.

4. What's a "270 Win" ?

Looks like, since there are some discrepancies about the rules, we will have to go 'all the way to the top', for clarification.

Yep, we're going 'straight to the top', not going to fool around with any of the pions. Gonna ask Mrs Barbara to be the moderator and make a ruling.

Hey Mrs Barbara... I'll send you a PM!!!

(We dont want the enemy knowing about the 'double secret plans')

First thing, I ain't walking no 200 yards. Second thing is, Pam said that if I warn't picked first, I couldn't play. miles

probably wanna exclude live rimfire rounds, too

Good idea !

You can be my Third.

[Randy's in for a shock....... Me and Mz Barbara are on a first name basis]

I would also suggest safety eyewear, when using improvised tactical elastic devices. Lest the unfortunate participant wind up looking like Harry Reid...

WOW! a real duel, don't know how I got involved? other than Oldman 2003 needs someone with a big ass to hide behind.as for ammo, I think ping pong balls at 25 yrds with a n-shooter sounds about right. rio7

gulp!

It would appear that I am going to have to resort to 'devious methods'... Bwwwwwwwaaaaaaaaahhhhhhhh!

Also known as 'thinking outside the box' or 'cheating'!

Blue, since Gene intends to hide behind me, I think that is a great idea. I was talking to Ed on the phone yesterday and he talked like your hand is still giving you problems. I hope it is better, and you take care of it for a while. miles

"Ahem".... If the invite is still open, I have decided to grace this gathering with my presence

Just to make sure that no migratory warblers are placed in danger downrange.

I shall bring my flintlock smoothbore, shooting actual lead balls for a change instead of just powder smoke at a bunch of opposing Mexican soldados as is more usual.

Smoothbores are cool, they take all the pressure off this accuracy stuff.

Birdwatcher

cool!

I've decided I might have to enter a .270 in the PD shoot, just to annoy people

Your a little late... .270 tied for 3rd, last year. planning on bringing it again this year.

Might even enter a dirty-dirty in the PD shoot!

Outstanding, Mike! Can't wait to see you!

Ed

You might just win it, Randy. A couple of years ago, at Sierra Vista, I won it with my Contender Carbine in .30-40 Krag with a 4x Burris mini scope on it.

Ed

Will the rules to the shooting events be posted?

I never heard of a "Negro" until just a few years ago.

Nah, we always adjust them depending on who's winning...

Back when I was young, it was on all forms that you filled out to designate race. Caucasian, Negro, Oriental, and maybe American Indian. miles

Not many rules. One shot, cold bore, at a small orange prairie dog, with you name on it. You have a better chance to win when you shoot at your dog, but there is always someone that tries another strategy. miles

"Dead" dog wins - no matter who hits it?

In my case, the rifle was sited in for min of deer so I had to shoot at another PD (4 PD's on one sheet of paper) to hit my PD.
I just scared my PD is all I did. But had fun.

And you had a 1 inch red dot on the PD, that was for the win at
200-250 yards.

Hopefully I'll bring the correct ammo this year...

We weren't going to bring it up...

Ed

Sure. They will be written in grease pencil on the head of a straight pin.

I will outline each competition with appropriate rules before the Gathering. It will be a short list.

I'm still open for suggestions for matches and rules.

Ed

scoped rifles over .45 caliber, at 200 yards...

Did anyone ever decide if we were going to be able to shoot clays. I know last year we didnt because of the horses.

If we can shoot them, I've got an old thrower I can bring.

Also, Ed have you or someone started the menu?

I seem to remember him saying something about you and crawfish, and your wife and pie/cake. Or maybe that is just wishful thinking on my part. miles

Randy, the problem last year was that the clay birds that were brought were the kind that are not horse-safe. We need to find some of the bio-degradable ones that are critter safe..

I have NOT started on the menu(s). I figured we could get started on that at any time now. I don't have a clear idea how many are going to attend, yet.

I DO know that we are going to have some newcomers!

Ed

Wishful thinking on BOTH of our parts.

Ed

Yeah, I knew it had something to do with the clays not being horse-safe.

Oh, since Miles is Genes second... he is the enemy!

Just because he wishes something, doesnt mean it is going to happen.

Of course, things can change...

I can't imaging Miles being anyone's enemy. Even if he really, really pissed them off. If he weren't such an honest guy, he might be bought off with some of your wife's pie.

Ed

I want it to be known to all... that I didnt come up with the idea to try any sneaky stuff, such as a bribe.

It was Eds idea!

And it was a good one!

The only flaw in your plan is the fact that Ms. Peggy, (Gene's Sweetie) can cook, too.

Wonder which one makes the best pie? Could Miles be tempted to be a triple secret agent/"second"?

Best pie gets his support...

Ed

All pie gets my support. miles

Last year, Jo's pie was fabulous.

Did someone say crawfish?

If you think my honor can be bought for a few crawdads..... you are absolutely correct.

I'll even chip in a flying twenty toward the purchase of them, and I'm sure others will, as well. Some of the guys don't know how expensive those things are, and it's not right for you to have to pay for 'em AND cook 'em.

This makes my spidey senses begin to tingle.

AMEN! That was an incredible amount of bugs, corn and taters you brought and cooked last year, Randy!

Paladin, I was hoping that you would chime in. Hope you can make it this year!

Ed

Damn straight, so will I. I might even give a little more to make sure we have enough for David. (Paladin) miles

I'll second that! I hope you and Maddy can make it this year, Paul, but I know what a long haul that is.

If you can make it, please leave that .22-250 at home so someone else has a chance at winning the Prairie Dog Shoot.

Ed

Ed
Terri and I are looking forward to coming again. We had a blast last year and expect it to be the same this year.
Kevin

Great, Kevin! Are you going to remember your rifle this time?

Ed

I'll try. Hope everything is going well with you and your family.

Kevin,

All is well here. Even if you don't bring a firearm, you are welcome.

Ed

I have informed the kids that I would like to plan to have a weekend off in April and one in May. Wifey is suppose to be out of rehab end of March. Hopefully I can find someone to be here with her and mom so I can attend, Ed.

Prolly the best I can do for now. Naturally I won't really know anything until 48-72 hours before the event. We'll just have to continue to play by ear.

Bob

OK, we're getting closer to a really great weekend. I'm hoping that some of the folks who had to cancel last year will be able to make it!

It's about time to start looking at how many folks are coming so we can plan meals.

Some folks come in on Friday, a couple will probably sneak in on Thursday, just 'cause they can. This is what I have, so far.

Suggested Meals;

Friday Supper - Burgers & Hot Dogs?

Saturday Breakfast - Coffee, Bacon and/or Sausage, Eggs, Donuts, Pastries

Saturday Lunch - Tea (sweet & unsweet), water, soft drinks

Saturday Supper - Tea, Soft Drinks, Water, Steaks (courtesy of RIO7), Baked Potatoes? BBQ Beans.

Sunday Breakfast - Coffee, Bacon and/or Sausage, Eggs, Donuts, Pastries

Sunday Lunch? - Tea, Water, Soft Drinks,


Needs;

Dessert Items
Paper Plates
Plastic Ware
Plastic Glasses (Solo Cups?)
Styrofoam Coffee Cups
Paper Towels
Napkins(?)
Salt & Pepper
Ketchup
Mustard
Mayo (&Miracle Whip?)
Pickles
Chips
Soft Drinks
Bottled Water
Butter
Sour Cream

I know I'm forgetting something, so please feel free to add to the list.

My lovely bride has Celiac disease, so we are very aware of food allergies. If any of you have food sensitivities, please speak out!

Ed

Understood, Bob. Family comes first.

Ed

Ed, please do not put me in charge of the sour cream this year? miles

We still have not figured out where those two quarts of sour cream disappeared to, Miles.

I think breakfast duty suits you well, especially the part about waking up the cook(s).

Ed

Yea he does get up early. This year I'm going to camp next to Bob's area instead of the way out parking lot/field. I'll of course bring the eggs, woks and money for Randy if he decides to do the mudbugs.

Great, Gordon! I still have your cast iron dutch oven. I haven't even used it to melt wheelweights!

Ed

Thanks for that ED. The 8" one is good for cobbler, what I brought it for. But we had way too much good stuff, it was raining so I did not make the cobbler. Remind me to pick it up.

There indeed should be plenty of chairs and pans there

I'll work on the sausage next week

Sounds like a plan! Neither you nor Leonard have to bring chairs and you DID leave at least one new frying pan here. I haven't looked in that box of stuff since last April.

Ed

I'm hoping some of these guys (and families!) will show up in addition to the ones who attended and those who tried to get here last year;

Mako25
SteveNO
Dirtfarmer
HugAJackass
Kamogari
EvilTwin
Flyboy Flem
Miss Lynn (!!!)
Boggy Creek Ranger
Karnis
Mudhen
krp
isaac
Doc Rocket
Pugs
Jorge1
TLEE
byc
rockchucker
gitem12
Crimson Tide
Seal Billy
bcolorado
crossfireoops
Scott F
Sandcritter
and a whole host of others...

Ed

I'll give it my best shot, but there are some family doings down south that may get in the way...

We'd love to have you here, Ben, but family does come first!

Ed

Crimson Tide and son just stopped by on their way to the Hog Hunt. They are a little bit early for the Gathering. Hope they can make it back!

Ed

Ed, put me down for some more mud bugs. I'll cook them for whatever meal, you want me to. I'm sure Jo will bring a pie/cake or two and sweeeeeet tea if needed.

Randy

How about Lunch, Saturday, like last year? That was a huge hit with everyone.

Give me an idea of costs so we can help out. Bugs are NOT cheap!

Ed

Miles, I didnt see a boat on either of Eds ponds and I believe he needs one. I was cruising on e-bay and found a local boat that I think Ed needs.

http://www.ebay.com/itm/1994-Sunsee...amp;item=221717266713&pt=Other_Boats

Fixed up, it would be real nice, and if he hurries, he could have it ready by the last weekend of April. And it's located in Gilmer, Tx.

(It could also be used as a dog-house, when Barbara makes him sleep outside)

What do you think?

Damn right. That would get me out of the horse feed barn. miles

Couple of beds, recliners, big screen tv, wet bar, etc...

Sure would be better than looking at the south end of a horse, that's facing north!

Don't y'all think it's nice of Barbara to let Ed act like he's running the show?

I don't know about them, but I sure do!

Ed

There is a 14' semi-vee on the upper pond and a 12' Jon boat on the lower pond.
I don't need that monstrosity! I have enough major projects.

Ed

Ya need that for your friends to borrow. miles

Let me see, $7,500.0 for the boat, another $2,500.00 worth of repairs (minimum), a big-ass trailer ($?), and the time to haul it to a big-ass lake.

I'm thinking NO!

Ed

Last year, Maddy and I took a nice early morning row in that boat on the lower pond (there was a snake underneath when first I turned it upside) and even caught a couple of smallish fish. Miles, that boat is big enough to sleep you.

That son of a bitch done sunk once....... you tryin' to drown Miles?

I got people trying to hide behind me in a duel and now trying to drown me, and I all that I did was wake the cook. I did not think his food was that bad. miles

I can just see Miles, dog paddlin out of that barge, makes me chuckle. rio7

Anything like I did when you hammered that doe? miles

YEP!!!

Raining good down there Blue?

Kaywoodie, Like a cow pissin on a flat rock in the middle of the Rio Grande,mud hub deep to a tractor wheel, can't get anything done so we are cleaning saddles and other tack and tellin lies. rio7

Everybody needs a little down time. miles

Yup. Muddy as all hell here!! Still raining. But all is real green. Tho Mesquites and pecans aren't putting out yet!

I always heard the when the pecans put out, frost is gone. A few years a ago that was put to the lie. Most times it is true though. miles

Yup. I try to keep an eye on the pecans, Miles. Usually works here. Pretty close. I've seen mesquites get burned more than once!

we have gotten 4 1/2" so far and more coming this way, hell I can hear the grass growin. rio7

I got back from the Hog Hunt near Crystal City, and it was raining a bunch down there

Been raining off and on all day here. Got close to a quarter inch I expect.

Hey Pat, how many hogs did you guys kill? bet that was a fun group of guys to b.s. with rio7

It was indeed a fun bunch of guys, but the pig hunting was so-so. Last I heard only six pigs killed for 24 guys. I only had one opportunity, and missed him.

They had plenty of exotics and more than a few whitetails, but not that many pigs. This morning most of the ranch was impassable due to the rain - I understood they got a couple of trucks stuck last night.

tex n cal, 6 pigs is 25%, sound like the hunting part din't work, out to well, but the company made up for the crappy hunting.glad you are home safe, hope to see you at Ed's get together. rio7

Yep! Looking forward to this gathering!

Yes, Miles, but tell us again about that method you used in waking her up.

Sadly Ed did not put any "Her's" in charge of cooking. Gordon certainly does not qualify. miles

I'm certain that Gordon is glad you don't think he qualifies.

I'm really looking forward to this, gents! Time to start putting together a list of who is coming!

BTW, we've had over 9" of rain here since the first of March according to my neighbor!

Ed

Ed, I am tentatively planning to be there. I am going to Monahans the weekend before and not sure I want to drive that much. Will see how I feel!

Dennis, I'm hoping you can make it. It's been too long since we sat and talked!

Remember, caffeine is your friend!

Ed

I do not doubt it. We have had 7.5 inches according to the gauge in my garden. My yard will bog down a snipe. miles

Hope you can make it Dennis. I hate that I had to miss the Arizona gathering. miles

so the shooting contests will be at what ranges?

200 yards for the prairie dog shoot? And the others?

Just barely catching up with this thread!
Last year was a blast, although my kids nearly froze to death and Ed and his wife were gentle enough to let us sleep in the RV with heating.
We will be in Peru and coming back Sunday just before the gathering and since my wife did not go into berserk seek and destroy mode when I brought the subject up, pending scheduling at work, we may be able to come again.
It will be nice to see some familiar faces again and meet new guys from here if we can make it.
Any plans on shotgunning claybirds? Ed what kind would we need?

Pablo, I found one case (90 birds) of biodegradable White Flyer clay birds at the local Walmart.
The box has an orange band around it with the words "biodegradable" in that band. Hope this helps when looking.
Any other kind are toxic to the horses. Use the toxic ones here and Ms. Barbara will be toxic to someone's health.

I am going to use some of these for the Firearms class the first weekend of April, so I won't have a full case unless we find some more.

I'm really hoping you and your family can make it!

Ed

These are my ideas, but I'm still waiting for some input from you guys.

DGR Shoot - Any rifle, .40 caliber and up, iron sights only, two 8" targets fired at, in order of farthest to closest, starting at 35 yards, then 15 yards. NO light loads. Factory load equivalent only, This will favor double guns as far as speed, but accuracy is what is important.

It doesn't help if you miss really, really fast.

.22lr Shoot - Any rifle, any sights, any position, 100 yards, tightest five shot group with one round REQUIRED to be in the orange center dot. If no one gets a round in the dot, then closest group wins. Time limit of 90 seconds for the five shots.

BPCR Shoot - 12" target, three rounds, barrel sights only, any position, 200 yards, in one minute. Smallest group wins.

Military Rifle Shoot - Any vintage military rifle, any caliber, iron sights only, military issue or equivalent loads, three shots, off-hand (slings permitted), in one minute at 100 yards.
Maybe we should just go ahead and call this the "Bob "kaywoodie" Norment Shoot".

Spaghetti Western Practice Shoot - 15 yards, any Centerfire Revolver or auto-pistol, iron sights only, five shots, one-handed, beginning with the handgun in the shooters hand and at his/her side, at five beverage cans on a log, in 30 seconds. Ties will be decided by a shoot-off consisting of five cans on a log, five shots in 30 seconds at 50 yards. (Thought y'all were going to get off easy, didn't ya?)

I need ideas on a "Kids Shoot", too. Any thoughts?

We can have a Traditional Archery Shoot here in the yard at anytime. 4" balloons at 20 yards, pick the color of balloon BEFORE you release the arrow.
Ties will be decided by shooting an apple off of the opponent's head. First shooter will be determined by a coin toss.

Or, shoot-off will be at golf ball size balloons at 20 yards. Your choice.

Ed

.458 SOCCOM AR, check

.22 with 12x scope, check

what is this "barrel sights" you refer to?

M1A's count as military rifles, do they not? How about sporterized 03's?

15 yards, any centerfire revo...check

**********




Kids shoot (now being serious ) Probably needs to be a cutoff on ages, but in general maybe make sure they have something fun & easy to shoot as far as a rifle, and balloons or something else as a reactive target (full soda cans?) so they can see hits.

A .22 single shot is traditional, but maybe a .22 autoloader would be more fun? And an AR with adjustable stock would fit different kids? I'm sort of brainstorming here, certainly willing to loan a rifle for kids to shoot.

Barrel sights: look at a factory 1903 or '03A3. They have "barrel sights".

M1A is a military rifle. As for the '03, define "sporterized". If it's just the stock cut off, yes. New barrel, aftermarket trigger, glass bedded stock, no.

AR-15 A2 or A3 would qualify, as would a Trapdoor Springfield, P-14 or P-17, 1898 Krag, M-1 Carbine ( ), Rolling Block, or Winchester 1895.

I guess I should have called it the "Battle Rifle Shoot".

Ed

Good ideas!

The kids are welcome to shoot my 77/22. The stock isnt adjustable, but I'm pretty sure they wont mind. If it will go 'bang', its good.

Some of us 'big boys' had better look-out. There was a young lady at the meet last year, that could shoot pretty darn good!

You bet she could! I think that's a very good, generous idea, Randy! I have a couple of single-shot .22's, a Marlin 39, and an old Marlin 81 they could shoot too.

If any other folks have something the kids might shoot, bring it!

Ed

What is the distance on the P D shoot?

75 yds, if your going to sight in your rifle!

That's why they are trying to keep the range a secret.

Since the beginning, it has always been 200 yards. We can make it an unknown distance (no rangefinders allowed ) and really make it tough.

Ed

Works for me.

Not bragging, but last year I came in 2nd place, when I killed the prairie dog in the middle of the head with a 7mmRM.
Cold bore shot, had not sighted it in, and I shot high thinking it was sighted for 100yds (had not shot the rifle in about a year)... had I held on target who knows!

That got me a surprise award of a brick of 22LR so can't complain at all!!!
by the way the range for the PD shoot is not 200yds or 75yds, it is 123.7yds sight in for that gents.

I have a CZ452 that I will bring if we can make it. Has a centerfire 4x scope that is parallaxed at 100yds I guess, but I am debating getting an infamous SWFA SS MQ 6x or 10x as a belated birthday gift.
What do the masses say? 6x, 10x or different scope?

I use FX 12's which have an A O. Does the 10X have an A O?

This would be my first choice, too.

Pablo, you need to check your rangefinder it was 121.34 yards.
BTW, your shooting that and other rifles proves that you are one of the ones to beat!

Ed

It will be great seeing you again Pablo!

Clearly I may have to dust off a secret weapon for the PD shoot. Perhaps one that makes range irrelevant

For the kiddos, I'll throw out that the .300 Blackout AR is very mild to shoot, especially with subsonic loads, and has an adjustable stock. So that's available, if those supervising the kids think it would work. I'll need to roll up a batch of subsonic loads for it, but that's no big deal.

Guess I'll have to go to the range. Min. of Deer will not work.

It will if you're accustomed to shooting East Texas deer which range from chipmunk size to medium German Shepherd size.

Ed

A .458 SOCOM is a Dangerous Game Rifle?

Ed

Ed, how strict is the .22LR shoot at 100? Any RF or just .22LR? .17's?

Now I am confused, are we putting a 22LR at 100yds and shooting at it? or shooting at something with a 22LR from 100yds aways

I have a very nice air rifle that is 0.177, compressed air provides propulsion from the center of the cup, does that make it a Centerfire? should it be allowed?

Curdog, the SS MQ 10x and 6x do have AO.

.22 LONG RIFLE Rimfire ONLY.

If you want a side contest for .17's, we can accommodate that. How about ping-pong balls at 150 yards? The ping pong balls would be hung from a string, subject to the wind, coriolis effect, and bad marksmanship.

Ed

Pablo, you have to forgive Dave. He's been sniffing crude oil fumes too long.

No, your air rifle does not qualify as a "centerfire" as you have to stand off to one side of the stock to fire it. So, what you have is a "stand-off fire". If the PRIMER (oops, it doesn't have one, does it? ) were in the center, such as with a 155mm Howitzer, you would have a true "centerfire". Got it?

Ed

Go for the 10X !

Ed

WOW - sounds like big fun again this year - wish I could be there for all of this shooting of such esoteric stuff. Probably would just bring a simple 95 Hi-Wall. Would it even qualify for any of this CF stuff?

Well, I figured if the SOCOM was a DG rifle.

A ping pong ball staked in the ground with a 16 penny nail at 150 yards would be more than safe with the .17 I have.

THAT one was the one I was concerned you would bring!

"Simple 95 Hi-Wall" my aching butt.

Sure wish you and Maddy could be here, but I fully understand. Now, if you would like to ship that rifle out here, I could test fire it a time or two and see if it might qualify...

Ed

I have a Handi-Rifle in 17HMR that is capable of keeping them inside a ping pong ball at 150 yards, that's why I came up with those specs.

Ed

And no, a .458 SOCOM would not be MY idea of a DGR.

Well, they are over .40 caliber, and are used on pirates. Arrrrrrrr!!!!!!

I've seen pictures of pirates and have yet to see one that even faintly resembles a charging Elephant, Rhino, Hippo, Cape Buffalo, Lion, or Tiger.

Now politicians, on the other hand.

Ed

okay, fine.

A .475 Turnbull single shot work as a DGR...loaded with 500gr Woodleighs?

Isn't that a pistol cartridge?

Ed

<sigh>

Ya can't fault a guy for tryin' can ya?



Ed

I might have to dust off this one for the PD shoot...

YOU SHOULD !!

I think we should do a "Stalingrad" type rimfire contest.
Back in Peru we shot something that mimicks the last battle of "Enemy at the Gates".

Knockout type of game, 2 shooters at 50m. No shot limit. Single shot loading with 22lr, prone position, no support except sling.

Targets were 9 scaled down soldier silhouettes (supposed to be full sized at 400m - 455yd) and a final circular one simulating an enemy sniper's scope, about 3" dia. HAd them welded on hinges and a plate so resetting was easy.
First one to take them all down wins.

Fun fun fun, specially when you hear the plinks of your oponent connecting and the crowd going "oooooh, aaaahhhh" oh!"

Quick Web-Fu revealed ebay has different offerings for shapes and sizes
silhouette extravaganza

If someone has crazy welding skills attaching these to a hinges and a bar/lever to pull and reset from distance should be fun.

I LIKE that! No crazy welding skills here (no skills at all ) but I'm sure we can con someone into running down and resetting them. .

Scopes allowed on those .22's?

Ed

Yep! most people had 3-9× variables, but 4 or 6x fixed worked wonders too.

Thinking about it, its your place, Ed... you can make the rules.

Ed wishes he made the rules...

We all know Mrs. Barbara is 'The Boss'!

You know that she's the Boss, she is still trying to convince me.

Pablo, I like the idea. A lot. We are placing an Amazon order shortly and I'll get those silhouettes on it.

Ed

So, what I found online are 5" IDPA targets similar to what you showed, Pablo (yours shown were 4").

My thoughts for the match; Six 5" IDPA silhouettes per shooter and one 3" round "stop plate".

Two shooters at a time, 50 yards, .22lr single shot rifles, scoped, shot from prone, slings OK, no time restriction. First one to drop all six IDPA silhouettes and then the "stop plate", wins. It's a "shoot-off". Once you lose, you're out. Last man standing wins.

What say you folks?

Ed

I'll be trying like hell to make this one, but you know this farming stunt is going to come first.

Drop ship the Targs my way, and I'll get them set up with "crazy welding skills", e.g. pull a cable and shoot next relay,...per discussed.

....next best to being there, I'd venture.

GTC

That's very generous of you, Greg! Let me see what I can arrange.

Ed

Hope you can make it, Greg!

I like your small target idea, but do we have to lay on our belly like a lizard to shoot, and I don't have a big bore with out a scope, guess I will leave my rifles home and bring my shotguns and pistols. rio7

Did you scope that Marlin .45-70? You'd better bring that .450 and your truck gun.
I want to try to beat you with the AR I swapped you for at 200yds, sitting in a chair, using sticks. :-)

Ed

45-70 got a scope now, 2X7 leupy, front site was so big i couldn't see a pig behind it. .450 does not have iron sites, put the first scope we took off the .450 on my .405 seems to work ok so far,so far I have shot 43 pigs with the .450, 27 with the .405 and 6 with the 45-70 I have not really warmed up to the 45-70 yet. .450 and .405 way out shoot the 45-70. as for a ar shoot out I am ready when ever you are. don't have a .22 anyway. rio7

If any of y'all happen to come across me layin' on the ground on my belly........... just pile a bunch of rocks on me for I will have died.

Yeah, or In my case, drank too much.

I'm wishing I had acquired a .405 Winchester, since those are probably the lightest kicking DG rifle, and decently fast handling in the 1895, too. Never have warmed up to the 1895 Winchester, though.

Besides the .475, there is also a .458 Winchester in Ruger #1 here. I have not shot it in a long time but could probably whip up some factory-equivalent loads for it. Probably a tossup which kicks less; the .475's 500 gr factory-equivalent loads run about about 1900fps, the .458's about 2100, but the .458 has a D weight barrel and weighs at least a pound more than the .475.

So if someone wants to use either one, let me know. I'll probably upgrade the iron sights on one or the other.

Curdog, Sounds like we feel the same way about layin on our belly to shoot, if you are crazy enough to lay down here where I live, besides gettin covered with sand burrs you wouldn't be able to see the end of your barrel for the weeds and grass.Pat my .405 is a #1 and I really like it and it shoots great. rio7

Does this mean you're going to join us at the Gathering?

Hope so!

Ed

Blue, I guess we could have a Wheelchair, offhand shoot for you, Gene, and eyeball.

Ed

Ed, I will be 78 yrs old in about 10 days,and if I remember right your ass was draggin your tracks out after a week huntin with me, damn insolent PUP!!! rio7

OK, I'm down off of the roof now (fixing and cleaning gutters on two houses) and can reply on something other than a "smartphone".

Yup, no argument that my butt was dragging. That was some of the hardest hunting I've ever done, and I've been in some rugged places. Whoda thunk that flatland like you have down there could wear a man out? Guess I'm getting soft in your old age.
You're worse than any Drill Instructor I've ever met. No rest for the weary, I guess.

I was just suggesting a fair competition that would allow you and the others to get in on the fun. Besides, you don't even HAVE a .22lr, so why are you upset?

Ed

Upset!upset! do I sound Upset! I bet I can barrow a .22 from Kaywoodie, you need to get back on the roof. rio7

I'm finished with the roof, now I get to cut up and haul off three large trees in the yard that came down during the ice, snow, and rain a few weeks ago.

I have two very accurate Contender Carbines in .22lr Match. Both wear fixed 6x Weaver scopes. They have been used for more than one "shoot-off " here and are fully up to the task. I figure, if a person can consistently hit a golf ball at 50 yards, and keep a golf ball dancing at 100 yards, they will do.

You can even borrow one, if you would like. I'll even let you use the ammo they prefer.

Ed

Same here, hope you can make it.... but if you dont....

We're gonna talk about you, tell all kinds of lies about you, give you a baaaad name, ruin you reputation, etc.

(of course, money and liquor can persuade a fellow to change his mind)

Blue, I got your back!

Just let me know and I'll bring you a .22 so you wont have to shoot one of Ed's.

He will give you the one we saw in the barn, stock broke, forearm cracked, had a bent nail holding the lever in place, and looked like he had modified the rear sight with a hack saw, but the front sight did look good (it just wasnt upright).

Thanks Randy, Us oldmen need to stick together, I know that .22 Ed, has in the barn the one he shoots beach balls with at 10 yrds, Ed, wears glasses ya know.Blue

We'll give him things to work on, too, when he does show up...

I figure if he leaves his welder at the Rusty Iron he'll be OK.

Hmmm..I wouldn't put it past him to smelt some of this iron ore lying around here and make something out of it. Better keep the lighters away from him.

Ed

Blue and Cur, I'll bring my shooting mat if I remember for you guys. We can get you back up.

RIO, we can do a shoot between you and curdog off the bench... no rests, the idea is to have fun, with you or at you guys

I really hope I can make and partake in the shenanigans.
Thanks for ordering those, Ed, and Greg thanks for getting them fixed with crazy welding skills.
Pisco sour is on me, if we can make it.
I'll set up the assembly line with kids again (gotta teach them early)

Now that I am through picking on Ed, How about I sit in a folding chair and shoot of of sticks? that should be a pretty good handicap.rio7

Uh, huh....that's what I figured you'd do.

With you, that's the same as prone for the rest of us mortals.

I'm good with that if Gene is.

Ed

When I think prone I think no bags, tripods, bipods, backpacks, nothing but elbows, fat belly, etc.
Somehow I think RIO7 is finding the ways to make a "handicap" to his advantage...
My grandma used to say (crude translation here)

The devil knows more from being old than from being the devil... I think it applies here

Good quote! Fits both Blue and Gene to a "T".

For Blue, shooting from a chair with sticks is no handicap. If folks were paying attention at last years Gathering they could have seen him in action at that 8" long piece of 3" diameter pipe I had hanging at 200 yards. I think he missed once with his "truck gun" AR-15.

Watching Gene shoot Prairie Dogs a few years ago at unknown distances showed me that he is quite comfortable shooting from a chair as well.

Ed

Ed, I guess they need to be nominated umpires of the rimfire contest... or just have them shoot exhibition style against each other on a different age category

It wouldn't be fair to make them just umpires, they have to shoot, too.

I'd really like to watch both of them shoot from chairs with sticks and see how they stack up against folks shooting Prone.

I like watching good shooters do their thing. It's the issue of coming up with a challenge good enough for them to strut their skills.

Ed

curdog, think we better come up with plan to whip these young whipper snappers butts, may be we can get oldman Randy, to give us a hand. rio7

I have no doubt they will beat me my sorry butt, but I can bring some decent smack talk:)
I always enjoy watching someone skilled doing their art

I'm ready.... money, marbles, or chalk.[THAT'll have 'em scratching their heads ]
I've done some of my best work setting in a chair. I recall one time, back when Ciudad Acuna was Villa Acuna,..... better not tell THAT.

Randy will have to withdraw his challenge to a duel with me, though, since we gonna be on the same side in this contest.

We be shooting against the younguns, not each other.... right?

That's right, Gene. In the interest of fairness, we will let you use your walker as a rifle rest if you can't shoot off of sticks.

Ed

I'm gonna recruit this Grandma who can shoot without a rest... booyah!

a little over 3 weeks to go

We certainly have a bunch of shooting events planned. I think I pretty well fixed up for them though. As long as the barrel bulge holds a while longer in the 03A3.

Put some blue tape over the bulge, surprised you being an engineer you didn't know that. :^)

That looks like a MP40 Granny is holding! Yahoo! Plus, she looks almost old enough to interest a couple of people who are attending the gathering!

Ed

I did use blue tape, but it keeps falling off...

Put the STICKY side against the barrel, Patrick!

Ed

OK, this is a tentative list of attendees. Please look it over and tell me who I'm missing. Of course, there's a bunch of folks I'd love to see attend that we haven't heard from yet, so this is JUST the beginning. I'd like to get a more complete total so we can make sure there's enough food and drink.

Ed & Barbara (thought we were going to sneak off, didn't ya?)
Miles Patton
RIO7 & Smoke
Oldman03 & his bride
ldholton & bride
WTXJ
tex n cal
labarr
curdog4570 & Peggy
Paladin(?)
Gunner500
Sharpsguy & Bride (HOPING!)
Texchech & bride
kaywoodie
tdd4570
Sponxx & family
TXRam (?)
Velvet Tines & Family
OSU Sig
Birdwatcher
dennisinaz (?)

eyeball was making noises as if he was coming, ltppowell is still a tentative, haven't heard boo from stxhunter, BrotherBart, SteveNO, or several other folks who were trying to make it last year.

What say y'all? The more the merrier!

Ed

We are still a maybe, unfortunately cannot confirm yet. I will confirm as soon as I get the schedule figured out.

Ed, later on, you can tell me what you want me to bring/do. I will try to fill in the gaps as best I can. miles

Thanks, Pablo.

Ed

Will do, Miles.

Thanks.

Ed

Miles, can you fill gaps in my arsenal?

If I understand this, Gene, Blue and I will be pitting our superior shooting/BSing skills... against the younger crowd.

Since us old codgers gotta stick together, and Gene isnt really the emeny, and I really didnt want to shoot Miles (with a n-shooter), I will officially withdraw my challenge.

Dont mess with the old codgers, You'll get burned!

You know, Miles is getting a little short in-the-tooth also, we might ought to include him in the 'Old Codgers'!

You work too much to need many more. miles

It is not the age or the miles on me, it is the stops along the way. miles

Gang! I'm still trying to figger out a way to get there!!!

I sure hope that you can make it Bob. miles

Bob, I know you are working with some hardship right now ,but you need to come to Ed's, I have some lies I haven't told you yet and it would be great to see you again. rio7

Oldman, I think Gene,you and me would make a good team, but we should hire Miles, to be our coach and spy,he's a smart and sneaky ole boy, and he could shoot a few shots to cover our little slip ups. Miles can shoot I know that for sure. rio7

I work pretty cheap, when It is something that I like to do. miles

I'm gonna try!

If ya need a hand setting up and what not lemme know. Would be happy to help anyway I can.

With a name like that....

Looking forward to cooking crawfish with dad again this year. Glad yall liked em. It's an honor to around y'all.

It'l be great to see you again, Alan! I hope you've been doing well. This talking once a year business is for the birds.

You're welcome to come out before hand if you'd like. I suspect we'll have a couple of others slip in a day or two early, so I don't know how much there will be to do.

I just wrapped up a "Firearms For Actors" class here and had a ball. Took two actresses, neither one "country girls" and had them shooting everything from AR15, .22lr revolvers, .38 & .357 revolvers, 1911's, 20 ga SxS shotguns, autoloading shotguns, and my Shiloh Sharps, to traditional archery.

One young lady (originally from Madison, WI) had never touched a firearm OR a bow before yesterday. That girl can SHOOT! You should have seen the grins she gave us when she was shooting.

The other young lady LOVED the .357 revolver and the AR15. I had to wrestle the AR15 away from her. I think her grin will wear off in, oh, a month or so. She's headed home to tell her husband that he will be buying her a Model 60 and an M4.

She is about 5'3", 115lb and had a blast (pun intended) shooting the Sharps.

I hope we have as much fun at the Gathering as we have had here for the last two days.

Ed

Gene and Blue... What do yall think would be a suitable offering to Miles, for his super secret services?

Not that we would need it, but if he was to be the 'official firearm inspector', it could be advantageous (to make sure the other team was following the rules).

I personally know a lady that cooks pecan pies, and could probably get her to cook one... or two... for the winning team.

Said lady had best find an armed guard that can shoot to watch over those pies.

And that's all I have to say about that...

Ed

That's a classic Louisiana political move. AND I LOVE IT!!!

I'll have you know right now, that I am an honorable man and can't be bought. That said, I will let you know also, that I can be rented. miles

Y'all did a great job last year, and I look forward to seeing you and the rest of your family again. miles

I see good things happening out of this, for You and the shooting community as a whole. Word of mouth is our best Ally. Salute! for a job well done. miles

I've seen Ed's Facebook posts on the classes, and think that's terrific stuff

Wonder if you could work some journalists and writers into the same classes?

I'm sneaking up on them, Patrick. They follow actors and musicians constantly. One day, they will get curious enough to inquire and then, I'll have them.

Ed

Coworker did that for years. Before she bought her place Up on the lake, Sandra Bullock would hang out at his place so as not to be found! Lucky guy!

Well dang it, looks like east Texas isn't in the cards this year as much as I'd like to be there.

Y'all have a Texas time!

David

Sorry to hear that, David. I was really looking forward to seeing you again.

I hope we can get together sometime soon.

Ed

Amen, sorry you can't make it, David!

I have some 530gr Postells ready for the Sharps. And a variety of other flavors of boolits

Lucky indeed! I dated a girl in college who looked quite a bit like her. Saw her in a movie 20 years ago, and found myself digging up her bio, wondering if she was my old girlfriend. "Nope" was the answer.

Wish I could make it brother but hopefully to Quemado.

Hey Ed, what's the direction of fire on the 200 yard prairie dog shoot?

Thanks,
Gunner

Damn! Now we are going to have Gene shooting at washers and bragging on how He would school you, if you had been there. I am sorry that you can't make it. miles

No problem there Miles, just make sure he uses 3/8" washers and a .45

Horizontal, slightly SW, range 200 yards.

One shot, cold bore, your choice of rifle, sights, caliber, and shooting position. Most shoot from a benchrest. Closest shot to the center of the orange dot on the PD silhouette wins. Ties will be decided by a shoot-off.

Part of the challenge is that there are three PD silhouettes per 8.5" x 11" sheet of paper. Two of the silhouettes are full body, one is half body. Shooters write their name in bold Sharpie next to their silhouette and then have to keep track of where it is among all the others.

Ed

Keith, I fully understand.

We will miss you!

Ed

I like the way you think.

Ed

Back when you were working, you could always get off if there was powder to be burned. Now, as a man of leisure, you ain't got time for us no more.

I came thru Welch last week and prairie dogs and doves were plentiful.

Hah! Just when you thought I was a man of leisure, I get a call. May be headed to Sponxx's neck of the woods south of the borders, so wouldn't be able to make it anyway. If I get the job.

If I let you win our shooting contest can we go shoot prairie dogs at Welch again? Chris is coming to visit again this summer.

Ed

Hi, Guys.
Have been a bit out of pocket but watching and anticipating the gathering in East Texas. It will probably be 110F, you know, so on the avaerage, we will be just right.

Seriously, I kept looking at the posts, and it seemed like I needed to do something, but couldn't figure what. Finally had an an idea last night - if we shoot metal plates at less that 50 yd, the general rule is lead bullets only to prevent the jackets rebounding at 180 degrees to the direction shot. This will cause a bunch of us to spill our sodas, not in a good way.

Have little experience here, so maybe somebody else has a different thought?

Regardless, really looking forward to seeing everybody again.

Propositions such as yours are handled by my agent, Miles.

With all these new jobs/positions that I seem to be coming up with, I think I might be working too cheap. I would up my fee, but I don't know what it is now. miles

Miles, I've always thought you were easy, just not cheap.

Let me know what the fee is going to be. Maybe some of Barbara'a famous Pecan Brownies?

Ed

Leonard, It's good to see you chime in. I was beginning to think you weren't interested.

I am fervently hoping it wont be above the normal 80F in the daytime, and no lower than the normal 55F at night. The way this year has been going so far, we're running about 5F above "normal", so it still shouldn't be too bad.

I have fired literally thousands of rounds of rifle, pistol, and shotgun at steel targets from 10 yards out past 500 yards. That includes jacketed rifle pistol and monometal shotgun slugs. The only time I ever had a ricochet was at 10 and 15 yards when firing FMJ pistol rounds and fragments came back. No puncture wounds, just sting. Everyone should be wearing safety glasses when shooting steel. That's a given.

We won't be shooting steel any closer than 25 yards, with most of it being 50 yards and farther. We also don't shoot perpendicular to the face of the steel, so bullets and fragments don't come back uprange.

Most of our targets will be paper or plastic.

Looking forward to seeing you!

Ed

Dang, wrote a smartass response and closed the browser!
Anyway, seems like we may be able to come, barring last minute emergencies. Adriana talks as if we are definitely doing it (much to her dismay, haha).
The kids don't know about it yet, but will be thrilled.
We'll tell them we we get back from Peru (flying this Friday and coming back on the 19th)

Thinking about the shooting and all the rigging going on, I think I will bring last year's "2nd place achieving" target and rent Miles to swap for this year's if I shoot a little stray.

David, where and when are you going?
I know some peeps with sweet intel on the doves

Pablo,

Dang, I could get into some of that pretty quick.

Not sure where other than Peru, but sometime next week is panic time. Yo pienso en la mina de oro, plata, o cobre, pero no se seguro. I'll let you know when I have something solid, when and where.

David

David. I have friends working en minas por todos lados. Travelling next week? I'll be there. Let me know

Will do.

We brainstormed and decided we should get a remote controlled car, mount a target holder on it, and use it for our charging dangerous game shoot.

Now, survivability of the vehicle may be problematic, is the only concern I have...

Have we started a list yet of who's bringing what?

Don't think so.

I keep forgetting to tell y'all, Mrs. Barbara said that she would be proud to be the Moderator, but that y'all have to keep in mind that she has whips AND spurs and knows how to use them.

Ed

Will that make her a Moderator or a Regulator??? East Texas??
Feud between old codgers?? Am I missing something dangerous in here?
Should I stay away or bring my kids to see history replayed by those who participated in its making?
BAM!

Bring the kids, Pablo! I've never seen two grown(?) men shooting at each other with slingshots and ping pong balls, so it's going to be a new experience for me, too.

Mrs. Barbara is Moderator, Regulator, and Empress Of The Known Universe (on some subjects).

Ed

We have not. First, here is a list of those who have said that they are most likely attending (in no particular order except how my brain sifted them out);

Milespatton
RIO7
Oldman03 & Boss
'Bout Half Cocked
ldholton
gunner500
Texczech & Kelley
DLALLDER & Wife
Wtxj
dennisinaz
Kristy80 & family
Velvet Tines & Co
tex n cal
labarr
curdog4570 & Peggy
kaywoodie
Sponxx & Family
TDD4570
OSUSig
Seafire
Birdwatcher
My daughter, Heather, & grandson, Hunter

There are a couple of more "tentatives" who won't know until 48-72 hours before the weekend if they are coming.

Next post will be the menu items and who we have (so far) bringing what.

Ed

Ed is the pd shoot any gun and how far?

Here is the list showing what we have coming so far and who has volunteered to bring it;

Milespatton - Bacon, 1 large can coffee, coffee pot, frozen french fries, George Dickel , maybe more as needed.

RIO7 - Steaks for Saturday Supper

Oldman03 & Boss - Crawfish Boil for Saturday Lunch

Bout Half Cocked -

ldholton -

gunner500 -

Texczech & Kelley -

DLALLDER & Wife -

Wtxj - Eggs for breakfast for Saturday & Sunday, 108 eggs, Hot sauce of some sort, need 2 assistant's out of the below group to help, becky creek whiskey

dennisinaz -

Kristy80 & family -

Velvet Tines & Co - Sausage(s)?

tex n cal -

labarr -

curdog4570 & Peggy -

kaywoodie -

Sponxx & Family - Pisco Sours for Saturday Evening

TDD4570 -

OSUSig -

Seafire -

Birdwatcher -

My daughter, Heather, & grandson, Hunter -


There are a couple of more "tentatives" who won't know until 48-72 hours before the weekend if they are coming.

Next post will be the menu items and who we have (so far) bringing what.

Ed

200 yards, one shot, cold bore, your choice of rifle, sights, caliber, and shooting position. Most shoot from a benchrest. Closest shot to the center of the orange dot on the PD silhouette wins. Ties will be decided by a shoot-off.

Ed

Miles and Gordon, changes noted and post above duly edited. :-)

Ed

Thanks Ed. I must have missed it through the pages.

By the way,I haven't been able to put the gift you gave me last year to use. Maybe somebody at the gathering could use it. I'll bring it and see. Oh it's Kevin and Terri.

Have you decided what needs to be brought?

Oh it's Kevin and Terri.

Feeling the dang vise tighten. hope I can shake loose Ed.

You ain't that far from here. I'll just kidnap you and demand a ransom. We can split it.

Ed

I'll bring what's ever suggested. It will be nice to attend one and not be heading it up

I fear I may be summoned 180 degrees from Tejas.

You're going to Southern California?

Ed

That won't work, Wifey will send you repeated large sums of money to keep me.

Can I please beg the timing rather than sort my way through the thread. I am home on Sunday retired with nary a thought... Middle boy is schooling in Tyler so a combo trip is perfect.

Here you go ED #2
Welcome home

Well, that work for me! I get to enjoy your company AND money! It' a plan, then!

Ed

It is Friday, Saturday, Sunday, the 24th, 25th, and 26th of April at our place about forty miles north of Tyler, ten miles west of Gilmer.

I hope you can make it!

Ed

Ed,
Thinking again - maybe we could make a slight addition to the PD shoot - hold it both Sat and Sun am, weather permitting. The "Spagetti Western Shootout" could be separated into wheelguns [single action firing only] and autos. You might also consider a 50yd offhand for lever action, iron sights only.

I'll bring 3 fold up target frames, set up for four targets each, 5 bulls per target [with targets I have in hand]. Might be able to squeeze in a fourth frame if needed.

Have a big bottle of Knob Creek and, of course obligatory bottle of tah-Kill-yah with stuff.

Since hog hunt was unsucessful, probably bring breakfast ham for variety, with something else like chicken or hamburger, some plates and cups.

It's-a gittin-close!!

I like the way you think, Leonard, except for the "ta kill ya" stuff.

We have posted a bunch of shooting matches, now we need to sort them out and prioritize them.
There will be some "down time" between matches as we set up for the next one, but I'm not seeing a lot of spare time to add anything else. I could see the levergun match being shot right after the DGR shoot as the distance is the same.

It's looking like roughly the same number as last year, around 35-40 folks so far, with some of my students possibly also attending.

Ed

Say Ed... I need to know a little more about the 'Old Codger' shooting contest.

I want to make sure I got this right... .22LR at 50 yds, what position? Shoot off sticks, bags, rest?

Reason I'm asking... do I need to bring my good gun or will the one on the truck floorboard suffice?

bad news for us: a co-worker of pete's retired tuesday so everyone has shifted up one spot on rotation. instead of being off for the shindig, pete is now second in line on the call list and can't be more than an hour and a half away. i was hoping to meet everyone and cook some deer meat. hope ya'll have a great time and maybe his schedule will allow us to visit next year. take lots of pictures. no vacation for us til the middle of may.

Sure hate to hear that yall wont be able to make it, VT. I worked in south AL. and was hoping to swap some lies stories.

Way it got started was that the Younguns are having a match with any rifle, any sights, from prone at 200 yards. Us Mature Gentlemen are permitted to shoot in THAT match, sitting, with sticks. Blue don't own a 22, but you may shoot yours since it's "any rifle, any sights".

In fact... I suggest that you DO shoot it with your 22. [hee,hee,hee]

A sure win/win/win.

Ed and Gang,

Still looks like I may not know anything til next Wednesday. Now it's looking pretty bleak. But on a brighter note, Steph is walking a little bit!!!!! Well kinda a walk. But she can stand on her own a bit, and balance for a while!!!! One step at a time right now!!!

Bob

Bob, good to hear that Steph is coming along, albeit slow. I am pulling for you to make the gathering and Her to get that big Colorado elk. miles

Thanks Miles. Was watching a Gene Autry movie with grandkids last night. I asked Michael if the country looked familiar. He said it looked like New Mexico. He said he wanted to go back there and see that man again!!! I asked Mr. Patton??? He said a resounding Yes!!!!!

Glad to hear Mrs Steph is doing better and those small steps start adding up pretty quick. First thing you know, she will be a walking and leaving you behind.

Great gathering of good folks, to be sure.

Ed...I've received a handful of PMs describing how kind and generous you and your wife are and how nice your place is for this memorable event.

I feel badly you couldn't come up with my appearance fee.

Have a wonderful time, as I know all will.

You're good people, ED!

Ed - this thread makes me envious. Wish I could join y'all again this year.

Ed,
When you get a chance, can you just list the shooting events with a brief of allowed guns, and yardages?

Thanks much.

That's bad news for us, too! Come see us when you can!

Ed

Thank you for the kind words, Bob.

If you would not have demanded your fee be paid in 20 year old Scotch, Cuban cigars, and having your personal sheep keep you warm at night, we could have had a deal. All I could find was 18 year old Scotch and the deal fell through.

Really, I am sorry that you won't make it this year. I am looking forward to the day we finally get to shake hands and swap lies in person.

Come see us sometime. Mi casa es tu casa.

Ed

Are you trying to confuse Randy or me?

The discussion was around the "Enemy at the Gates" sniper shoot with .22lr at 50 yards, prone. Since some of you are too "round" to shoot prone, or are old enough to generate respect and not have to endure the prone position, we were discussing letting you "mature" gentlemen shoot from sticks while seated.

If Randy chooses to shoot it from 200 yards, I'd say he was just showing off.

Ed

Glad to hear that Steph is doing better. That has to make her and you feel better.

Ed

The "Old Codger" shoot hasn't been defined yet. The "Enemy at the Gates" sniper shoot is from prone except for those who, due to advanced age, can get prone but can't get back up. For them, shooting off of sticks while sitting is allowed.

Shooting from the supine position, aka 'dying turtle" is showing off, therefore, not permitted. Only Paladin is allowed to "show off".

Ed

I would be delighted to see that young man again. He made quite an impression on me. miles

No more than I wish you could be here, Paul.

Ed