Dates this year will be August 2/3/4th.

Camp and shoot, Armijo springs camp ground just south of Quemado NM. Official shoots will be Saturday, all for fun, casual shooting the rest of the weekend.

Food supplied Friday and Saturday dinner, Saturday and Sunday breakfast, Saturday lunch. Bring your own drinks and snacks, coffee cup.

Camping on site or you can stay at the motel on Quemado.

All welcome bring the family.

A heads up, this will be the last time at Armijo, we will be combining the winter central AZ Tonto and summer Armijo NM events into one summer event located in northern Arizona, 100 to 150 miles west of Quemado. To be discussed at this years gathering.

Kent

😉😉😉

Bob, I was out the other evening driving a remote area checking for quail and deer, I encountered 2 gila monsters and one big rattler...

Kent

🤣🤣🤣

up

My plans are to be there. miles

Thanks, Kent. Sounds great!

Norm

p.s. for those of you who know me from attending in recent years, the news is that we are moving this month from the Paa-Ko Ridge golf community, a semi-gated area around a golf course, down the road about 20 minutes in the East Mountain area to a somewhat eclectic log cabin built in 1945 as a hunting lodge, on five acres backing up against the Sandia Mountains and the Cibola National Forest.

It has its own spring, rock-lined pool and shallow well with abundant sweet water, which is hard to find around here! Gravel road, good electric and decent propane tank, small lap pool, great views, surprisingly decent soil for the high desert and big enclosed garage.

Big stone fireplace and a couple of old cast iron Franklin stoves, but also hot water heating. Great, well seasoned big old logs in good condition. I believe that they will provide good insulation. (We'll see.)

It's on a secluded road on the Turquoise Trail just a minute or two off Interstate Route 40, so my son Robert, who plans to attend UNM in Albuquerque, can zip in there normally in no more than 15 minutes.

The garage allows me to access my power tools and toys out of sight, plus the dogs. And on that side, daughter Mary's new chicken coop, the result of this Easter's bundle of chicks. No homeowners restrictions on farm animals in the new place, and much closer the the local Tractor Supply!

You can expect a lot of questions and requests for help from you folks accustomed in rural life, as much is new to me.

Norm

That looks like it's in the middle of nowhere. Is there even a Starbucks around?

We plan on being there!

There’s pie in ( wait for it) ,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,







Pietown.

Ask away. You will get answers, some good ones. miles

We fly the flag, pledge allegiance, and say grace before we eat Saturday evening.

Kent

It's on the calendar! I'm determined to not let work trump it this year. Daughter #1 may want to tag along.

I'm putting in for that time off. Best news I've had all Spring.

If you are talking about Armijo Springs, no. That's the whole point! Great elk all over, though. One of the best areas in the state.

On the other hand, as Kaywoodie says, there IS the famous Pietown nearby, and folks come from all over to get there. I've even seen huge bicycle tour groups riding in from Socorro. Last year, we stopped on our way home in one of the pie shops which incidentally has pretty good coffee too!

When I went to pay the bill, it seemed awfully high. It turned out that my family had ordered several extras to take out! We were eating pie for close to a week.

Norm

This years fish and steak night contribution.

ttt

Yes, that's the idea - middle of nowhere in the minds of most, but it is a beautiful "nowhere" at 8,000 ft. in the mountains of the Gila NF. Summer air and environment at its best, And, those who have traveled to participate in this annual shindig for several years are actually more impressive than the place itself. An unique experience invented by the SW gang, perpetuated by a few dedicated guys and well-supported by great folks who come from near and far - some very far.. Of necessity, it looks as though this time will be the swan song for gathering at Armijo Springs. I'm going to enjoy it to the max, and will miss this particular site a bunch.

That looks like a beautiful place with great company, have fun y’all. 👍👍

Very sad news that this will be the last year for Army-Joe. Julia and I have always enjoyed our time up there as well as the great company. We plan on attending again this year, barring any unforeseen circumstances..

Kent: We missed you last summer - if you’re cooking this go-‘round, I’ll be happy to contribute.

Miles: Julia sure loves that honey you gave her – we’ve been rationing it this past year, but sadly it will be gone soon.

Norm: Sounds like a great place, post some photos of the new place when you get a chance. Will Mary be attending again this year?

Ken: We look forward to seeing you and Judy.

Tracy: I hope you’ll be able to make the trip and Julia looks forward to seeing your girls again.

Paul: I seem to remember reading that you’re moving away from the area – does that have anything to do with this being the last get-together at Army-Joe?

- Kevin

Can't wait

The two events we have been having started about the same year but for two different reasons, one close to Ken Howell and the other Greg Cameron. I feel responsible for each as I was involved with starting them, unfortunately both Ken and Greg are gone now, but not forgotten.

We were stormed out of the last Tonto event and it just clarified that we need to combine to one in the summer.

Paul has moved to Az from the Armijo area, after this year we will no longer have a host there.

We will just move east into Az, lots of wide open space with the same kind of country. Dennis and I will submit some choices.

Those two locations have run their course, it's just time to centralize.

Kent

I'll send "The Warden" - perhaps she'll allow me to escort her!

Great news.

I need to put in to schedule the time off. I look forward to this event every year, to seeing old friends, and making new friends.

See you there.

Why do you guys always pick the time when I'm in AK salmon fishing? Maybe next time.

up

TTT

We tried doing it in mid July, the monsoon hadn't come yet, we had to 'camp' in a parking lot and drive to a shooting area, no fires allowed, forest was on restriction. Last year it was so bad the forests were closed but the monsoon hit with enough time the forest opened.

It's pretty much the last weekend of July or the first weekend of August every year, any later and it's pushing up against some hunting seasons, as it is bear starts about the same weekend here, my antelope hunt starts a few weeks later.

Kent

The first weekend in August works great for me. My girls are looking forward to camping. They learned a valuable lesson last year about leaving the tent door open during the rainy season. Thanks again to the grown-ups who helped them put the rainfly on correctly.

I am out for the duration as June, July and August have me in north Idaho every year. I am sure it will continue a great tradition.

Great news!

Thanks for the update and your continuing efforts to make these events successful, even having the cajones to cancel when it became obvious that last year at Tonto wasn't going to work.

Maybe I can even talk Miss Niki into accompanying me.

With great anticipation for seeing established friends and trying to remember most of their names!

ttt

Should be a good time as usual

It's on my calendar!

Ed

ttt

ttt

Hope I can swing it. Will be spending a week in middle of July at the Rocky Mountain National Rendezvous. May be cutting it close for my available time!!!!

You can trust me,Kaywoodie.

I trusts ya!!!!

Bob, sure hope you can get out here for this one - maybe just stay west until that weekend?? As for some of the other very long-distance drivers - Miles and Ed - hope your calendars hold and you will join in. Randy? Brian? Partick/Leonard? John? Tracy? Donell? Gene? Others I missed here??

ttt

Bob,

You need to start practicing. I expect to hear some yodeling.

ttt

Seafire's Ugly face will be there.....don't have to move this year like I did last year...

I normally don't take vacations, so this is the only thing that is even close to resembling one...

I'll be there if for no other reason, is I miss all you lugs.....

if some of ya don't show up, I'll just have to take more time off and maybe half a dozen of us with time on our hands due to being retard... I mean Retired.... will just show up on your door steps... with say a couple of cases of beer so at least we will be half welcomed.....

Right now, Donelle plans to be there with at least one, if not both, of the kids. However, she is in the running for a position in another school district. If she is selected, it is not clear how that would affect her attendance at Armijo Springs.

Stay tuned...

Sir,

I am, putting in for those vacation days tomorrow. I can't wait to hit the road and be among great people once again. I hope to bring my two daughters again.


Tracy (Ranger) Green

It's looking like a real wing-ding in the making!

ttt

ttt

ttt

I sent Rick a PM asking him to make this thread a sticky. Maybe if someone else. or enough others, do so, it might come to pass.

Norm

Yes,this thread needs to be a sticky.

Still hoping to come. The girls are already happy about camping again. We have the .22s and the Henry in .357 ready to go as well.

I may take the .30 Gibbs and one other rifle.

This thread is not the least bit sticky. Wish it were.

It will be,sometime.

THanks Rick!!!

Thanks Rick!

Thank you sir.

Yes! Mary will be so pleased.

Norm

Thanks - sticky appreciated !

Paul, I'm no longer a "very long-distance driver". I now live in Carlsbad! And, no, I don't have a good reason for not coming to see you and your lovely bride!

Also, I will be bringing a guest. Her name is "Kat", a true West Texas girl. That means, guys, she can SHOOT!

Kent, Please let us know what else is needed for the meals, etc...

Ed

Well it looks like I will miss this rendezvous this year.
Thought I had this cancer beat, but after my last chemo session April 5th, a PET scan and Dr consultation he didn't like the results.
I started another regiment of chemo at the Mayo Clinic this week Wednesday and Thursday. This will go on until the middle of June . After that. I will get set up to have a bone marrow transplant. Which means 3 weeks in the hospital, then 2 weeks of home nursing to make sure I don't get sick.

On top of that, mom had a stroke at the end of Dec so I'm pretty much a 24-7 caregiver to her. It's hard for me to take 1 day off let alone a weekend. Thank God my cousin helps me out taking care of her when I have errands to do and she will stay with her while I'm in the hospital.

I will miss everyone. Hope you have a great time.
Hopefully I will make it to the new meeting place next year.

Joe - such difficult news about your situation and I'm sorry you have to go through all of this.. Not only will you be missed at the gathering, you will have the support of ongoing prayers and well-wishes for your recovery.

Hang in there, Joe , and keep us posted on the bone marrow transplant. Ihave never donated bone marrow, but the Blood Center is always calling me for platelets.

Under the current category of "No reason to save this - but someone else might need it", do any of you all shoot/need .44 S&W Special brass? There is a double handful of the stuff here - will try to save and bring it to the gathering if you LMK. Watch for other stuff that may surface here.

Sir,

I do shoot and need the .44 special. I can bring a couple of guns to prove it!

Tracy

Dang Joe!

There's always next year.

Only a small quantity here Tracy, and it's saved for you. Wish there were more.

Hang in there, Joe.

We are diminished, but send prayers and healing hopes.

Like Tracy said, if there is something we can do, speak up.

Joe, sorry to hear the news and I wish you a speedy recovery.

Hate to hear this, Joe. I sincerely hope that things start looking up for you soon!

Looking forward to seeing you again next year, wherever we land.

+1

If you're ever in need - I'm only a few miles away.

The Campfire rocks!

For those not yet in contact, seems like we have some sad news . It has been reported that one of the original members of this SW Campfire gang, Thomas "Magnum" Belcher, passed away this morning. Tom - a very nice fellow, quick witted, avid shooter, loving father of two beautiful kids and husband of Brandy - has left us all too soon. RIP Thomas.

Very sad to hear. Only met him once I think but chatted occasionally on the old azshooting forum. RIP

Prayers for Toms wife and children. RIP brother. You will be sorely missed.

It was a pleasure to have known him and shot with him. Godspeed, MAGNUM.

Well this was a shock to read....

RIP Thomas... as Jeff said... you will be sadly and greatly missed my friend...Godspeed...

Condolences and prayers to his wife, daughter and son...
haven't seen them in a few years...but.... hell this is just tough news to digest...

I know tho at least he is with the Lord.....

The rest of you guys.... Good health to each of you...

We don't need any more news like this....

God Bless to Tom....

That is sad news indeed, about Tom. Also Joe's situation!

Joe, you are in my prayers as well. We'll see you at the next Gathering!

As for Tom, he will be sorely missed. I'm sure his family is devastated. They were the center of his life, particularly his kids. Anyone who saw him with his kids could tell that.
He had a heart commensurate with his physical size.

My prayers go out for his family.

I imagine that we will honor him at Armijo Springs as well.

Ed

Looking forward to it. It’s been great over the years as this camp out has grown from collection of grumpy old farts to a full-bore family event. And no one has worked harder toward that than krp.

Well said; though all of you have made felt welcome. I am grateful to be counted among you.

I'd take offense to the "grumpy old fart" thing - but I've seen the mirror, and many "friends" attest to it as well!

What an honor it is to spend a few days every year with folks whose paths wouldn't cross were it not for this get together.
Some wonderful acquaintances and great friendships have developed through the years.
A special thanks goes out to the folks that started this and sadly we remember each year those that are no longer with us.
As always, look forward to making this event, God willing...

Mark,

personally I never found you either grumpy or Old....

The Fart thing... I'll have to defer to "the Warden"....

and give her my regards...

She giggled at that, John.

Anybody coming that owns a 6.5 PRC ? I accidentally grabbed a box while hoarding for my 6.5 Creed. Would like to swap for something, like maybe 22 WM. PM me.

I know that Blue has one. Doesn't Dennis have one, too?

Ed

Brian, Are you going to make it this year?

It's been way too long since we've seen each other, my friend!

Ed

Just in case anyone missed it...

Today is Thomas Magnum's Birthday....

Still wish him the best and if you are of that persuasion Lift a Toast to Him some time Today...

Happy Birthday Thomas, where ever in heaven you may be today my friend!

No, he's got some 6.5 x .284 thingy. A fad purchase.

Ok, will bring them just in case.

I can relate... I have a 6.5 x .280AI.

Does everything a 6.5PRC does but uses .280 Rem brass and a long action. You know, "old school".

Ed

Talus, bring the 6.5 prc and we will work a trade, I have never shot any factory loads in my 6.5Prc, but I hear they work just fine and I can alway's add the brass to my pile. Rio7

Hey now, maybe you ought'n to mind 'yer language with those "thingy" and "fad" utters. The 6.5 in the Win .284 case (rebated) might seem like some past fad, but maybe you guys were too young to remember when and why it became popular and a winner "thingy" with knowledgeable shooting/hunting guys. Back then, Sam May (Apex barrels) up near Flagstaff turned out quite a few and two of my buddies had them. Those barrels were ACCURATE and the cartridge design gave a performance edge over what many others and I were shooting at the time. I was mostly hunting then and the 6.5x55 seemed perfect for deer, easy/inexpensive to reload, Swedish Mil rifles were nicely finished, etc., etc.. - and I had not yet developed any taste for a hybrid. Later, when that taste developed a bit (and the kids were on their own), I went to the 6.5/06 and skipped right past the 6.5/284 Win idea. Have often wished I had given one a try, and Dennis' rifle seems excellent. Maybe it has an Apex barrel. In your experience, how does the 6.5/06 compare with these newer/fancier 6.5s? Mind you, I did not refer to those newer 6.5 "thingys" as a "fad"?

If you never met Sam May and discussed barrels with him, you missed some good moments. Same thought about Paul Marquart. While away from the SW for a while, I lost contact with Sam May and later went looking. He was in a nursing facility in NM and passed away there some years ago, apparently very much alone except for one fine caretaker.. Folks in a knowledgeable circle at the time said that some employee did Sam out of his barrel business (and other stuff) on a shady maneuver, but I do not know the veracity of that story. I simply know that he made accurate barrels (cut).

While I'm on here, some may have noticed that I've been divesting some stuff and plan to bring a this or that to the gathering for those who say "I'd like to have that". I hope to post some additional items soon - solely for giving away within this gang - but, simply have not gotten that organized yet. Shortage of time/stamina is a challenge these days.

I'd also like to sell some things, but definitely will NOT have anything for sale at the rendezvous. If someone decides to buy something through a PM beforehand, maybe I could deliver at AS. Not even likely that I'll get such stuff posted by then.

I'm really enthusiastic to share time with so many good folks again in August.

We're looking forward to being there, friends.

This is usually my one and only enjoyed vacation of the year.

My friends always ask if there are prizes etc. I always remind them that the prize is seeing old friends, and making new friends. Oh, and the bragging rights too.

Hoping that many of you have the chance to make it there this year.

Heck... no one openly complains to me about showing up every year....

so either you all are a bunch of nice tolerant guys or......

plan on being there this year.. last year we ended up having to move...

Well - we're moving, but it mostly should be done by then.
"The Warden"s getting a new double-wide, MUCH nicer - at company expense.
We get to move twice - into a storage unit - then back! woo-hoo

Hell Mark, I’ll prolly just drive right on by the place in July loster then all hell!!! Hollerin’ something like where the hell are they???

Gonna do my best to be there.
Yep, it's been quite a while dang life gets in the way sometimes.

Lookin forward to seeing you missed you last time you were there as I had to leave early, work stuff.

Dang, watchin you and David taught me a lot about pistol shootin

Well, I got these new fangled things called rifles, maybe get some pointers this year....lol

How many years has Joy been waiting for this new place?

I know you've been busy and all....

Bowling Pin Shoot ?

Been discussed for around 4 - 5 years, now!
As Brian said - "Life gets in the way sometimes."
But - we're just goofing off, most of the time !

Y'all need to come see the new digs, after we get them planted - pretty nice !
"The Warden" has good taste (Other than her choice of men) !

Sam's equipment ended up in a gun shop in Hereford, AZ. He was one of the pioneers of a 'gain twist barrel' if I recall correctly.

Yeh, I have a fad rifle, same caliber that has won as many long range championships as most all the rest combined!

Bob, if you come in early July - we may be in a camper. That's when we'll be in-between homes.
Homeless, so to speak!

Hey, if its like around here... ya can always join the transients down under the overpass on the freeway...

July, I'm going to be on another one of my east coast road trips....the northern routes..
I'll be residing at the Hotel 4Runner, and be showering up at the Pilot Truck Stop Shower Emporium....

"The Warden" said "I'm not staying in that camper that long! I've got a house at the ranch! With a big bed!
I may be bach'n for a bit!

As of now, there is a 90-95% chance I will be there. If the doctor doesn’t throw me into the hospital. Hopefully I’ll find out more about that next week. I really doubt he will.

Edit, sorry I missed your call other night Mark! I will try to give you a holler later this evening if I can.

K-Bob - those is good odds. I look forward to seein' your ornery carcass out here.

Thanks Paul! Im looking forward to it. Old son and a pair of cossacks may be accompanying me. Dunno yet.

I'll throw a first aid kit and a stretcher in the 4 Runner just in case....

Want me to bring ya a case of Hamms??

Hey John!

No need for the Hamms. Ive really cut back on my libation consumption.

Mark and I digging holes in Benson.

Kent

That's the concrete master on one side and the metal structure master on the other side - doing the do-si-do square dance with the two man auger. They dug sixteen deep ones in that hot AZ sun and then moved on to the more technical stuff. Hard workers. Good folks. Watch for more pics as we go.

Boy, y'all look like you need a TALL, COLD glass of iced tea.

Kent, if you're going down again, on a weekday, I'm avail on Mon, Tues, and Weds just about any week.

Brian, Will you be bringing your Springfield 1911 again this year?

Yep, and if I am driving a truck will bring this 22 target for the kids...

Great. That will be fun for them.

Spent the day at the range with Dennis. Y'all better be bringing your "A" game !

We oughta just give Dennis all the first place awards and then the rest of us go have a shooting competition...

Dennis could still compete, as our first place Professor Emeritus....

I personally love to see some of the vintage stuff he and Paul always show up with...

hey Jeff, how about bringing up the Grendal? I'd like to look at that and take a shot or two with it...

John, Dennis is excellent and may be even better prepared this summer, but he didn't come close to winning it all last tie. Memory says that Ron (talented visitor with his old Mod 70 in .222 Rem) won the steel shoot and yours truly won the rimfire 25 yard shoot and the 100 yard high power deal. I think Dennis won the long range .22 rimfire shoot and the prairie dog shoot. Anyway, it was good competition and hope some others will shoot well and win this summer. Due to some problems in the meantime, I have not pulled a trigger since then, but will try to tune up a bit when I am back up at our mountain place..

Dennis and I have been very busy ourselves and have not yet gotten together at all on the shoot plans, so I will offer here to bring the targets etc. for the 25 yard rimfire, the 100 yard high power and the 200 yard prairie dog shoot. Probably will need some help from you guys with the target setups up and running those shoots. Maybe Dennis will take care of the stuff for the steel shoot and the long range .22 rimfire deal; We will try to get some rules posted soon.

Tune 'em up !!!

Hey I did alright when I shot on my first trip there. ;-)

Yes, Ed, you did quite well. Are you going to come back for a repeat performance sometime? That would be really good.

John

I'll have the grendel with me. We'll burn up some powder.

Maybe Dennis can bring his Hansel - or - is it a Gretel?

Decided to check my email last night as I was getting ready to turn in. Top mail was from the Magdalena Ranger District, headlined "Roberts Fire." Fortunately the fine print revealed that it was over in the San Mateos in the Apache Kid Wilderness. Whew!

Thanks Ben, I suppose - although not liking to be reminded that much of the fun can go out of this event if we can't campfire and shoot in the Gila NF. It has been raining a bit this week and usually gets stronger soon - so we should be OK with the "too dry" issue. Now - no fires, please.

OK !! Dennis and I finally have been able to get our thoughts and preps together, so posted below is the info on planned shoots. All assistance you can give us on-site will be much appreciated. Get ready for big fun. P

August 2019 Armijo Springs Southwest Campfire Gathering
Shooting Competitions

FRIDAY 8/2
5:00 pm – Rimfire Shoot Distance: 30 yards at a 1 or 2 inch target spot
Firearm: rim fire sporting rifle with open or aperture sights (no scope or lighted lens)
Position: any free position with various pods/shooting sticks OK, or at bench with firearm not touching
Time once positioned: 4 minutes.
Goal: smallest 5 shot group having at least one shot within the target spot..

6:30 pm – Long Range .22 Rimfire Shoot Distance: 125 yards at a 3 or 4 inch target spot
Firearm: .22 rim fire sporting rifle, any sights (not dedicated target/competition type rifle/sights)
Position: any
Time once positioned: 5 minutes
Goal: smallest 5 shot group having at least one shot in the target spot

SATURDAY 8/3
8:00 am: Prairie Dog Shoot Distance: 200 yards
Firearm: any sporting firearm with any sights (not dedicated target/competition type) and no sight-in shots at this 200 yard setup station prior to the contest
Position: any
Time once positioned: 3 minutes
Goal: one shot, closest to center of a small dot (about 1/2”)

10:00 am – Center Fire Tight Group Shoot Distance: 100 yards
Firearm: any sporting firearm with any sights (not dedicated target/competition type)
Position: any
Time once positioned: 5 minutes
Goal: smallest three-shot group with at least one shot in the target spot

1:00 PM - Steel Shoot Distance: steels at approximately 100, 200, and 300 yards
Firearm: any sporting firearm with any sights (not dedicated target/competition type) Maximum case capacity is 30-06 size or smaller with max velocity of 3300 fps, to save the steel – honor system.
Position: any free position with various pods/shooting sticks OK, or at bench with firearm not touching anything except shooter’s body
Time once positioned: 6 minutes
Goal: 6 shots with at least one at each distance; must call each shot; points according to distance
Shooting order determined by draw.

2:30 PM - Bowling Pin Shoot Distance: 25 feet shooting at 5 bowling pins 18” apart on a table
Firearm: Handgun
Position: standing
Goal: Two shooters each match – winner is first to get all 5 pins off table. Double elimination format.
Rules:
For .17/.22 rim fire, pins are set 6" from the back of the table.
For.38 special/9mm and similar cartridges, pins are set in the middle of the table.
For cartridges larger than .38 Special, pins are set 6" from the front of the table,
18 shots allowed, but shooter must load only 6 at a time.
To compete with .17/.22 rim fire, participants must be age 15 or under.



Kindly submit any questions/comments on this open forum

Paul/Dennis,

Bowling pin shoot question: How about allowing adults to shoot rim fire, but change the distance of the pin setting ?


Jeff

KRP

The ice cream make would be great fun this year.

Well, whaddayathink Dennis?? Maybe say OK and change the pin distance to 50 yards?

so are varmint rifles disqualified Paul?

I'd also like to suggest that people be able to sign up to shoot anyway they want ( or need to, due to health or physical restrictions)
as long as they are not shooting for any type of prize or award.....

after making the trip, some of us just like to participate and hang out with the friends we have made...

winning a prize or award means nothing to me...anything I've ever won in a prize, I've given it away to someone who could use it..

or as an alternative, let each event me open, any style and skip the prize thing...

I make the trip just to hang out with some of the best folks I've ever had the pleasure to know...

Hello John - we've always shot what most of us see as "varmint" type rifles in these contests and there is no change to that. The "no dedicated target rifle/sights" rule has been with us for a while and many of have used what we call varmint rifles. All good there. These contests were originally designed as friendly, inclusive challenges and we want to keep that alive.

Few or none of us would keep anyone from going to the line to shoot "outside the rules" during one of these specific activities, Then again, we fully intend for these to be contested for ratings and so we need rules to insure some sort of competitive fairness. We don't know the definition of "participation trophy".

So, maybe the way to best accommodate those who want to join a particular shoot using a firearm that does not meet requirements or shoot from a position outside the rules, would be to have the competitors get on the list and do their thing and then also have non-competitors shoot once the competitors are finished. Accommodating, yet there would be no confusion about judged winners of the competition. But, PLEASE, do not shoot over mass or fps beyond the stated limit so as to damage or ruin the shooting steels..

I'm not going to decide this on my own and would like to hear what Dennis thinks - and from others as well.

And, of course, we always try to provide plenty of shooting space and have a bunch of "hang out impromptu group shooting" going on for anyone who wants to enjoy such - that won't go away.

Thanks for the comeback Paul....I wouldn't be bringing anything that would harm any of the steel....

either 223 or 22.250 with varmint bullets that splatter on impact...

I didn't think it would be a big deal.. I've tried to fit into the 'non rest' rules..
but I have range of motion issues with my neck ( birth defect) that doesn't allow me to be able to shoot from a prone position, and off hand just isn't that good except to come in last place...which I really don't mind doing..

I just never liked competing with friends...character defect...because I can get overly competitive...

I just enjoy the shooting, and seeing how I do among my peers...nothing more...

hopefully will understand that idiosyncrasy of mine...

Very good, John. This is one fine bunch of folks and a good time will be had by all.

I don't see a return happening given that Tonto is gone and we spend the three months of summer at our place in north Idaho. Frankly, I have lost all desire to shoot on the Campfire trips as the fun has been lost, for me at least. I won two of three the year I attended Tonto with simple stuff that I hunted with. When wind meters showed, well that's not for me. I will miss Ken's food though.

That's a bit interesting there Ed. All that most of us have ever shot at the Campfire events over the years are hunting/varmint rifles and carry handguns - that is totally true for me and some others I know. My eyesight is not so hot, but I don't remember having seen a wind meter at one of our friendly comp shoots - maybe one showed up and I was too dumb/inexperienced to know what it was. Anyway - our traditions have been to keep it to simple stuff and in recent times the winning has been spread around among some pretty good shooters who are also very solid peeps. If you were to come shoot with them again, you might get back some of your lost fun - or maybe a lot of it. Who knows - we may have another wintertime event, of some sort, in some sunny spot. I like seeing these folks twice a year, and it would be good if you were here as well.

Paul,

You are All that is Class.

I noticed a couple of things that need to be changed in this format. In the steel shoot the only requirement is that you have to take at least ONE shot at one of the high value (white) targets. You can shoot all 6 rounds at the white targets if you feel frisky.

As far as sharing guns. The only shoots where this is an issue is the Prairie Dog shoot where you can get the wind from the other shooter as well as the vertical.

I don't see any issues with sharing a rifle for the 22 or steel shoot especially. The dots on the the shoots other than Prairie Dog are big enough that you should be able to hit them. The group size should determine the winners.

Joe did bring a wind flag one year to use with the 22s. He didn't win and anyone could have looked at it. It was tough keeping all those bullets on the dots at that range. I usually hang a few ribbons on the branches and stuff for the steel shoot since we shoot out to 300 yards.

I haven't shot in the steel shoot since the first year we did it- the year Mic McPherson showed up. I will this year.

That's our guy Dennis - agree on description/rules to be posted and then think of things to change up. Then again, he's a good thinker and a good sport - I'm just fine with what all he said above.

D, In that you are going through the efforts to get, make, bring and set up the steels for that shoot, I will provide the targets for the:following:
Rimfire 30 yard shoot (2 inch spot)
100 yard small group shoot (2 inch spot)
125 yard .22 rimfire small group shoot (4 inch spot)
200 yard Prairie Dog shoot (1/2 inch spot) The PD shoot was started at Armijo, so we will still have three dogs per target again - can't miss the fun when someone shoots another person's dog. If it seems better to go to single dog targets after the relocation, so be it.

All the best, to all.

P.S. If someone (again) can bring one or two pop-up shade covers, it will help make the shoots much more enjoyable, even for the spectators.. I think that I have one from last year. Thanks if you can help with this.
P

Sounds good.

I'm headed to Alberta in the morning so I won't be able to do anything else to get ready for this until the 31st when I am back.

It is about 99% sure I will make It. The plan is to fly to San Diego and pick up my son then we would drive there. He had surgery and may not be recovered so I would have to fly to AZ and numb a ride. Either way I would be flying and thus gun poor. I am really looking forward to seeing everyone again.

Who is Alberta?

Now, this is some very good news.It will be a treat to have you here again, Scott.

Thanks Paul. It will be good to see you again.

Hope you folks have a great time! Wish I could make it, but there is too much going on here at the plant for me to get off.

Patrick, you will be much missed and I'm sorry you can't make it. You and Leonard were at Armijo Springs for our very first gathering there, and for most of those since, so I was figuring you would make the last one as well. Let's figure that you will be part of the next one at the new summer venue.

Probably time to get a count. Dennis is seeing Alberta and Kent is busy working - so I will request that we chime in here and soon if coming - and how many in your group? Maybe arrival plan as well. Thanks.


CCCC and lovely bride coming

Add one to your count. I plan to arrive Friday evening, God willing and the creek don't rise. I'm looking forward to meeting you all.

I was in El Paso and prepared to attend the gathering in Arizona six months ago. I hope nothing stands in the way this time!

Ed & Kat (Kathryn) will be there Thursday afternoon/evening.

Ed

i am planning to come, probably will arrive Thursday. Just me, this year.

Judy and I plan on being there Friday afternoon.

I don't know which day yet, but early. miles

Definitely will be there on Thursday--Crystal just reminded me that a two-day art workshop gets under way at our place at 10:00 AM that morning! Good time to be gone.

I'll be there. Most likely on Thursday... But maybe Wednesday.

I have an acquaintance from my HAM radio club that my be coming also.

My son and I will probably arrive Friday.

Count me me in..... I'll be by myself. Plan on getting there early.

Paul, I haven't read the thread. Is Kent in charge of the cooking? In the past, I would bring 6 or 7 dozen eggs for one of the meals.... is this ok? Need some guidance on what to do.

River rider, it will be fun to make your acquaintance. Try to get there by evening meal time on Friday - it might be Darby's chili.

Hi Randy - it is just great that you will be with the gang again and coming early - - - about time !! We've missed you and your louzeeana charm. We have eggs for breakfast and Kent sure will cook them. So, good move.

I'll show up hongry!

Maybe I can think of something to bring and share. If you smell wood burnin, it's just me thinkin.

Early in the week
Some down time will be very welcome
Also explore a bit as it may be the last time visiting that area...

Will be looking for some 325wsm ammo on the way down, have a highwall that I haven't had time to put loads together for.
Anyone have access to some?

Brian, If you want I can check at Ft. Thompson (NLR gun shop). They usually have a pretty good variety of ammo. I was there a few days ago getting large pistol primers. As it turned out, that was the only primers they had. Strange, is the supply short? They had lots of powder, but no primes except the large pistol. miles

Scratch two. My son is not healing fast enough to make the trip and my other options have crashed.

Sorry to hear that Patrick and Scott will not be able to attend.

My wife has some professional commitments that will keep her at home and on the computer; I plan to arrive solo Friday mid-day.

Hey Miles thanks for the offer
If you can find a box Win, Nosler or?
Store bought is a bit pricey but sure am itchin to shoot that rifle<grin>

I will look for .325 WSM. Correct? miles

That's the one...

So far, we seem to have the following tally. If you are coming and not listed here, my apologies for missing your name – and please chime in soon.

If you are listed here and not planning to come, please change your mind.

All, please pardon not inserting screen names this time - a lot is on the plate today.

Miles Patton
Darby
Ken and Judy
Dennis and one buddy
Kent and Cheryl
Brian
Randy
Mark and Joy
Jeff P
Jeff H and maybe one buddy
Ben
Mark and Marcia
Tracy and maybe 2 daughters
Ed and one buddy
RiverRider
John C
Jim M
Blue
Paul and Maddy

Kent. that’s about 30

Any others?

Thanks, folks. P.

Miles, I found some!!!

If this is too late and you already found some up got ya covered

Kent,is there anything you want Judy to bring up food wise?

Chile... LOTS of green chile

Kent! Paul!

I will be there!!!!! With old son, and two grandsons in tow! One has new .36 caliber percussion rifle he’s itchin’ to put some ball thru!!!

Bob

Alas, I must withdraw my own invite. Too much going on to get away. I apologize if I have caused any inconvenience.

Tracy - sorry to hear this - we will miss you a bunch.

Bob - great news !!

So, the roster now looks something like this:


Miles Patton
Darby
Ken and Judy
Dennis and one buddy
Kent and Cheryl
Brian
Randy
Mark and Joy
Jeff P
Jeff H and maybe one buddy
Ben
Mark and Marcia
Kaywoodie plus three
Ed and one buddy
RiverRider
John C
Jim M
Blue
Paul and Maddy

Dang- was looking forward to catching up with you.

Same here. Just too much going on here and not enough time and money. We have a new political Captain and a major encampment found UNDER a street about 100 yards from an elementary school.
These drug addicted homeless are like cockroaches. I am helping to coordinate the removal and reclamation of the site, as well as trying to manage the 226 RVs inhabited by the aforementioned drug addicts. The PUC-Wastewater and Sewage Treatment have me on speed dial as the State Water management Quality Board is about to hammer the City due to the levels of untreated human waste bacteria in the bay. The fines are based on the premise that the City is not properly treating the sewage and just releasing it into the bay. What the system does take in account is that up to 8000 people daily are dumping their "Honey Buckets" into the storm drains which lead out to the bay. As two of the test sites are in my district and I have a good knowledge of who is who at the street level, I am being consulted weekly if not daily on the whereabouts and activities of the homeless. Though I have no rank, I am in great demand. I am less and less of a cop and more and more a "fixer".

Take the good with the bad!

I remember those days.

Caught some fish to fry on friday... Cheryl out fished me as usual.

Kent

Kent - they look delicious already.

Tracy - I'm truly sorry about those working conditions, and even more sorry they will cause you to miss our gathering.

Willow Springs??

Tracy, any chance you can send your wife and/or those wonderful daughters? It has been great to have good folks like the Greens at our gatherings. Sad to hear, but understand well, that duty calls, often when we had other plans. We will miss you.

Bob. . . bring your harmonica. Good to hear that you will attend.

Brian, big thanks for your hospitality last year; I'm bringing my own accommodations this year and am willing to share.
Someone who needs a roof over their head is welcome at my camp. You might want to bring a cot to get off the floor of the utility trailer.

krp- - nice work on the fishing expedition, thanks for the fun photos. As always we truly appreciate all your contributions to the success of this shebang. I'll bring coffee, foam plates, plastic cups and some cash to help keep this tradition going. Caffeine is more important as I age. Gracefully, I hope.

My daughter Julia and I (Kevin) are planning on attending.

Does anyone know if Anjin (Norman) and his daughter Mary will be attending? Julia is anxious to see Mary again.

Tracy, sorry to hear that you can't make the trip this year. I was hoping we would have a chance to catch up and Julia was looking forward to seeing your girls.

Are any kids going to be there this year?

Gentlemen and ladies,

I have deliberately waited until the last days to communicate my last minute decision of whether I can come or not. As some of you know, I underwent serious back surgery 3 months ago, in San Francisco. The recovery that I was ignorantly hoping would be over in several weeks is apparently taking several months. My Dr is pleased with my progress, which to me is painfully slow. He now says he expects me to be in pretty good shape when he next sees me in October. Wow. He does consider the surgery a success, and I am glad I had it, as I was in a bad way. It just takes damaged nerves a longer time than I expected to heal and settle down. I could have been on Norco continuously for the past 3 months, but all the stories about addiction scare me enough that I have only been taking it a couple of times a week when I really needed to. So pain has been my companion.

Every week or two I can definitely see slight improvement, and the pain is gradually decreasing. I am doing Physical Therapy twice a week, which I believe is helping, also. My biggest recovery goal and reward I had set up for myself, was this trip to Armijo Springs to spend some quality time with such a fine group of friends. My wife and I sat down and had a heart-to-heart discussion today and decided that there is just no way that I am ready to take such a long trip from our home in Northern California to New Mexico and back at this time. By the time I made it there I would probably have to spend most of my time in the bed, and wouldn't be able to enjoy visiting with folks. I might set back my recovery, and I don't want that. Every day when I climb out of bed I check to see if a miraculous leap in my recovery has taken place over night, but it hasn't happened.

So, my friends, I will be there in spirit, but not in body. I will be eagerly watching for posts and pictures. I hope I can make it to the next get-together at the new location. Have fun, and safe travels to all.

Milo

Your recovery is what counts, not your nose, Milo.

We will hoist an additional beverage in your honor, but we will be hard pressed to find another "greeter" with your skills. I certainly appreciated the welcoming information you provided at Tonto.

Best wishes and keep up with that PT schedule.

Just for folks to think about and discuss... The Tonto event has run it's course and the reason for it. But if some still want a winter event then many of us will come. I would come to an event that I'm not hosting, 2 was getting to be to much, I would help cook and all but would like the option of throwing a camp in the truck bed and just showing up... Somewhere in the southwest... Someone would have to host.

Kent

Take care of yourself Milo. Your health is your number one concern.

Kent, I fully support you. No reason that we could not gather and just be on our own for meals, or share with each other.

Kent, recently I've been thinking along similar lines and have half an idea - well, maybe not quite half yet - for some kind of easy SW winter get together. More later.
P

Milo - thanks for your message - and you know that we will miss you. There will be a joyful next time. Just happenstance, but a few months ago I was reading what you posted about the back surgery in SF and feeling sympathy for you - understanding all too well. At the end of 2018 I underwent a long hospital treatment followed by 6 weeks of lock down while on IV antibiotics in a battle against a threatening spinal infection. By mid February I was weak as a kitten - had plenty of pain and could do almost nothing. All of that on top of a complete right bicep separation from the cuff not long before the spine infection was diagnosed, Once the tide was turned, willing myself off the heavy oxycodone was a must - and it worked to steadily decrease the dosage to zero - took 4 weeks, during which I began to push myself very hard physically, That has helped a lot, although I'm not all the way back and still face the shoulder replacement some day before too long. I report the above very reluctantly but have done so with the thought that this may help to encourage a very good man during a time of disappointment.. So, YES, do the PT religiously and get back to our Campfire.

just the over 21..... make that over 51 types....at least as far as I know...

I will attempt to act more respectable than usual.

Milo,

sorry you won't be there.. at the same time.. I'll give a wave when I pass thru Redding tomorrow...

just concentrate on taking care of your back at this time...

Well, put Julia and I down as a "maybe."

Happy Birthday to Jeff Page, July 30th.

39 again and counting...

Happy Birthday Jeff!

Kent,

I only met you and your lady once and your food was amazing. but I bet most of the crowd would miss you far more than they would miss your food. So I suggest you be legendary and let some of us try to shine in the cooking department. Though when I make it back, and if I am cooking anything, suggestions will be gratefully accepted.

I spoke to Norm (Anjin) and, unfortunately, he and his family won't be able to make it to Army-Joe this time around. I hate to back out, but I think Julia and I won't be attending this year due to a lack of youngsters. Hopefully, we'll be able to make the Winter Soirée. Our best regards to everyone - we'll miss y'all.

Dropping like flies- bummer.

Jeff and I headed that way tomorrow afternoon

Looks like we will have about 30 fine folks - a good number for a great weekend of visiting, shooting, sharing wisdom and experiences, reminiscing and telling tall tales. Pull a log up to the fire and sit a while.

Sounds like some of the troops already arrived by yesterday - whole lot of shooting going on.

See you soon.

I want to be there. Have a great time.

The folks want you to be here Tracy - sorry about the work conflict - there will be more opportunities.

Like to wish you All a Great time! Id love to come to one of these meets some day!

With these folks, this place and the activities we enjoy - a great time is just about guaranteed. saddlering, I hope you get out here to be with us sometime soon.

If y'all see a silver '97 GMC driving around lost tomorrow afternoon, it's likely to be me. I'm thinking all I gotta do is find Forest Road 854 and go east and south for about four miles. At least that's what I'm getting off the web.

If I can't find it I'll stop the truck and listen for shooting.

Milo, I feel for you and others that are unable to attend, particularly those who are hurting.

As such as I have been looking forward to this gathering all year, especially as it will be the last at this wondrous camp ground at Armijo Springs, I too am going to beg off, as High Noon reported. For the who can attend, we are with you in spirit too.

My excuses are as follows. I just in the past two months moved into a really splendid house, one that I expect will be all I want for the rest of my life. It is a big old log cabin on the edge of the eastern Sandia Mountains, close to Route 40 and ten minutes away from Albuquerque. (We are experiencing a thunderstorm as I write this.)

The house was built in 1945 by Dr. Richard Loveless, founder of the Loveless Medical Group, as his hunting lodge. He later recruited his nephew, also named Richard Loveless, to join him in Albuquerque in his medical practice and added a guest house next to the lodge for him.

It is quite a place. He split off many acres of land much later, but the old house still has five acres, steep hills, two stone BBQ fireplaces, one way up the hill by the national forest grounds, rare plantings, an artesian well and stone pond (actually a couple of them) and abundant fresh water.

The house really has only one bedroom, so I am in the process of adding more living quarters which is absorbing all my savings at the moment.

Second, my wife has gone off to Japan for the summer to visit relatives, leaving me to care for the kids, now 20 (Robert) and 10 (Mary). School starts very soon and I must handle it.

Third, we have four dogs and ten chickens and they need care.

With stuff in the house of the type we all have, I prefer not to have others having access. I do not have anyone who can stand in for me.

Fourth, perhaps most compelling, I am almost 80 years old (later this month) and getting unsteady on my feet. Actually, I have been falling down often. I could get Robert to drive there and put up the tent, but I really have too much to do here, while I can. I need to do it now.

Say, I should mention that we have all the usual New Mexico wildlife roaming through our land as well. Two nights ago, Robert started out the back door to walk the dogs, and encountered a very large, very black bear ten feet away on the patio. Now, I do understand that bears tend to flee from dogs, especially several of them, but it was unsettling.

BTW, Bernalillo County, which encompasses Albuquerque and the East Mountains, today has rules against discharging firearms. Is that stupid? Not to mention that Albuquerque has one of the most violent crime stats in the country! I can assure you from reports of my neighbors, they take the county rules with a large grain of salt.

We later found bear tracks and other signs that the bear had been down in the arroyo a few steps down below our well house, where there is a special species of apple tree. Several fresh apples were on the ground. I guess he knew about it. Is this a great country, or what?

Norm

From NM 32 take the turn off to Armijo Springs (FR 854) and just keep driving about 4 miles - turn right at the fork and you will see the gang.

We will be leaving about 9am and should arrive around 2 pm.

Thank you sir. I am in Haskell, Texas gasing up. See y'all this afternoon!

Some pictures.....

Prairie dog shoot....

PD target being set up at 200 yards.

Looks like every one is having a great time, wish I could be there. Thanks for the pic's. Blue

It was fun Blue and you were missed!

Thanks for the Pics, looks like a Good Time was had! pretty country! wish I could have made it to one! Safe travels Home to All!

Glorious!

There's a whole lot of class, skill, and wisdom in those photos.

Looks like a good time was had by all. Sorry we missed out this year.

Had a great time myself, and I hope I can so it again!

Home about an hour ago.

This was me most of the trip listening to the Bull sh..... I mean amazed at the intelligence that was shared....

Mark and Miles...

Well folks, "The Warden" and I dropped Scott off at the ABQ airport around 10;30 this AM. He should have been early enough - haven't heard back from him
After a bit of appliance shopping, we got home shortly after 1:00 - safely.
Hope everyone else gets home safely, as well.
Blue, you were sorely missed - and missed a GREAT time. Joy sends her best wishes to you.
Ken - glad to hear Judy drug your butt home safely, as well !
We were missing quite a few members - and missed all of them.
I did enjoy meeting RiverRider and Bob (I believe his name was) - another new attendee.

The kaywoodie clan, James, Bob and the grandsons, with Ed, Jim in the back and Randy right.

I counted 33 attendees on Saturday walking around, may have missed someone in the chitter, I didn't check...

Kent

Ken and I, wives call it the bromance picture...

Scott texted me that he was in Portland ~ 20 minutes ago.

They are just jealous!

Good to hear and see that friends are arriving home in a timely and safe manner.

Thanks for the fun. I hope to see you ALL next year in a new location, TBA.

I am home, unpacked, showered, and enjoying the mattress.

It was wonderful to be there and to spend time with a great bunch of people I enjoy and care about. Met some new friends and they were all great. Food was wonderful. There was so much laughter my ribs will take a week to recover. Thanks to all who made it such a great time.

Sitting in Colorado Springs waiting for the transmission to cool, think an output shaft bearing is bad .
Good time to reflect on the past week, and the friendships this event has developed...

May even have the Triple A limo service get me the last few miles home...lol..

Was great seeing all!

Well... couldn't make it out of the Springs, waiting for AAA limo service...

Good morning all.

I'd like to thank all of those that put in a lot of hard work to make this another successful gathering.

Many of you sacrificed a lot of time, money, and spent many hours in preparation. This would
not have been nearly as fun had you not taken the time out of your personal life.

THANK YOU !

Also, thanks to all of those that were able to attend this year. I enjoyed renewing our friendship,
and to those attending for the first time, I enjoyed meeting you and making a new friend.

My two grandsons had a whale of a time!!!



Still trying to figure out why Jimmy was so interested in the coffee pot???



Curious kid

The boys and I got in a little after 1:00 am this morning. Jimmy and Mike had a great time! Thanks to all for helping them out and letting them have an awesome experience! James

Looked to me that everyone was having a good time. Nice to have several folks back that weren't able to attend for the last year or two, and to welcome a few new ones. The food, as usual, was outstanding and Kent and Cheryl deserve kudos all around.

Found out that my looks have caught up with my age. Brian (bcolorado) and John (Seafire) corralled me on Sunday morning and told me in no uncertain terms that I was not to break my camp and load the pickup until they showed up to do the heavy lifting. Thanks, fellows---my ego probably did need a little deflating!

I'm home.... had to buy a battery in Socorro, but other than that, everything went ok.

Special thanks to Ken and Cheryl for their help with the meals. Also, Mark and Marcia (sp) for all the things they did to make the get together successful.

It was great seeing old friends, making new friends, and I look forward to seeing everyone again.

Randy

Every one of these Campfire get-togethers in the SW has its own flavoring, and this time was no exception. The one invaluable constant has been the high quality of the folks who choose to participate and the consequent fun and very enjoyable interactions that occur continuously. This past weekend was most rewarding in that regard and, although we sorely missed having with us a few fine past participants, we enjoyed having some new people and one or two guys from the past that had not been wit us for a while. Self-selection in this adventure seems to yield really good results. And, differing flavors.

It is gratifying that so many folks drive such long miles to participate each year, and also gratifying (and a big relief) when they report their safe arrivals back at their homes. I wish all could check in that way. Maddy and I got down to our AZ abode last evening and, with the help of Mark and Marcia, were able to drive here an old truck (1970 Chev C30 tow truck) that needs to be sold..

Gathering at the Armijo Springs site has ended just about on cue, because Maddy and I have been moving to a new location and the various "hosting" tasks at Armijo Springs will not be possible. Then too, age keeps creeping to the degree that several good guys recognize that and they jumped in to help with the tear-down and camp clean up activities on Sunday morning. Thanks guys. The miles will not be anywhere near as long as for many others, but I'm certainly committed to the future events here in the SW and am looking forward to the selection of the new summer Campfire gathering site in AZ.

Any more photos?

P

Thanks to Kent and Cheryl as always.. was great to see everyone...

Got home at about 8:3- this morning... staying at the Hotel 4 Runner on the two nights heading home..

only major PIA was the new starter put in the truck 4 months ago.... decided to go on permanent vacation..

so I had to leave the truck running when I had to do anything, even getting fuel...

came into Oregon on fumes... stop at Costco to get fuel... they refused to fill it

pointing out some sign they have posted..." OREGON STATE LAW STATES...."

F' Oregon State Law, Our democrats and COSTCO...

made it home, went down and got some fuel in fuel cans to come home and put gas in the tank...

other than that, the trip home was uneventful, except that on a bunch of hills, I was in the right lane in second gear..
while semis passed me in the left lane going up hill....

Thanks for everyone who attended and for those that hosted it all again...

Well...
Made it home about 3am on a flatbed tow truck
spent 1/2an hour unloading the lead dispensers

Took the truck in and they were in awe as to how far I made
it as several bearings and the planetary gears were trashed in the transfer case...

Again, it was great spending time with the friends that I have acquired,new and old, at this event.

If anyone at the 'fire gets the chance to meet others from here do so as you won't be disappointed...

Brian - sorry about the mechanical breakdown and delay for a weary traveler - sometimes when an automatic transmission is coupled with a 4wd transfer case,, the seal between the two can leak and fluid from one will flow into the other - and leave one of them too dry. I'm very glad that you are home and safe.

Sorry about being late in posting, internet problems. Got home Monday (with no problems) about 3:00 pm, and found a lot of stuff needing done. Grass mowing near the top of the list. miles

Thanks for checking in, Miles - good that you are home safe. Now, that big old 100 horsepower John Deere and your big mower should make short work of that grass.

Thank you Kent and Cheryl, Dennis, and Paul for all the hard work. Great time in a great place. I've had some of the most rewarding times of my life thanks to 24HR and the "local" loonies I've met. What a privilege.

It looks as though all have gotten home in good shape.after a very successful event, and this thread probably will tail off.. So, let me add many thanks to Kent and Cheryl for the delicious food, to Dennis for his hard and excellent work setting up the steel shoot, and to all those who pitched in to help me with the camp setup and equipment arrangements as well as the breakdown and clean up chores - you good folks know who you are and make me grateful. I'm eager to see how the new location, shooting scene and food approach work out - am betting it will be great, due to all who do their part. Until next time - - - P