Shooting Straight about the AR-15 and the AK 47

Shooting Straight about the AR-15 and the AK 47

Shooting Straight about the AR-15 and the AK 47

 

Posted on July 8, 2022 at 1:00 PM by The Biker Lawyers

The Ultimate in Self-Defense and Target Rifles

In this blog and video, I dig deep to learn about the ultimate self-defense and target rifles– The AR-15 and the AK 47.

Jayden from Midwest shooting, a gun expert (and a total rock-head to boot), is my tour guide, instructor, and sherpa guiding us into the world of these two wildly popular platforms.

So, with apologies to metal heads everywhere– it’s time to BANG YOUR LEAD – long gun style.

First, out of respect for those affected by recent events, let’s address the elephant in any room with these types of guns, mass shootings.

“Handguns are the most common weapon type used in mass shootings in the United States, with a total of 147 different handguns being used in 99 incidents between 1982 and June 2022. These figures are calculated from a total of 131 reported cases over this period, meaning handguns are involved in about 76 percent of mass shootings.”

Statista.com

Bottom line: Only 24% of mass shootings use long guns of any kind be they rifles or shotguns.

Gun crimes in general, further highlight the rarity of long gun usage in crime. For instance, according to an FBI report of all gun homicides in 2019, of the 10,258 deaths involving gun homicides in 2019, only 364 used a rifle.

For those not doing the math, that works out to .035% of homicides were committed with the dreaded, the politicized, boogeyman of weapons– the AR platform, otherwise known as the “Assault Rifle”.

The Smith & Wesson M&P Sport II (AR model)

Now that we have that out of the way, here is a description of the M&P15, a model very similar to the Smith & Wesson M&P Sport II we’ll be shooting in the video:

Many believe that M&P15 Rifles are the perfect sporting rifle. These machines are built to perform for multiple uses under many various conditions, most rifle enthusiasts will tell you that M&P15 Rifles are as versatile as they are reliable.

The M& P 15 Rifles are specifically engineered for a wide variety of recreational, sport shooting and professional applications and are known to be easy to accessorize, but hard to put down.

As for their build, M&P15 Rifles are lightweight and resilient embodying the best combination of function and form.

The AK-47 

Now onto what is arguably the world’s (if not Hollywood action films circa 1980s era) most popular weapon; the AK-47.

From Wikipedia:  

The AK-47, officially known as the Avtomat Kalashnikov, is a gas-operated assault rifle that is chambered for the 7.62×39mm cartridge. Developed in the Soviet Union by Russian small-arms designer Mikhail Kalashnikov, it is the originating firearm of the Kalashnikov (or “AK”) family of rifles. After more than seven decades, the AK-47 model and its variants remain the most popular and widely used rifles in the world.

Interesting fact, the “47” in AK-47 isn’t like the 57 in Heinz 57 sauce, it actually stands for something! 47 stands for 1947, the year the rifle was completed.

There was a time when AK’s were cheap and wildly available in the United States.  This is no longer the case because of various political and socioeconomic factors.

Ok Russ, but how do they handle at the range?!

As far as the shooting demo is concerned, like the target competition with Ned and Brian, I did not fare as well with the long guns as I do with pistols. It’s supposed to be the other way around but for some reason at this stage in my development, I am more comfortable and accurate with handguns.

BUT my lack of accuracy won’t stop me from selecting a winner in the battle for supremacy between the AR and the AK.

Watch the video if you haven’t already to discover my choice!

About Russ: The biker community’s Ambassador of Ammo

Known as a professional Radio Gypsy, Russ is the voice of “crazy stories and bad behavior” on Rock 108 every weekday from 10 AM – 2 PM (CST). After a shooting expedition with friends, Russ found a new passion for firearms and is now searching to find the perfect fit to match his needs. Join him as he tests and reviews various guns and targets, learns gun safety, and occasionally blows stuff up every week right here!

Make sure to subscribe to this blog for email updates when Russ posts a new experience!

14 + 10 =

How The Ambassador of Boom Celebrates Independence Day

How The Ambassador of Boom Celebrates Independence Day

How The Ambassador of Boom Celebrates Independence Day

Posted on June 28, 2022 at 4:06 PM by The Biker Lawyers

From Ambassador of Ammo to Ambassador of Boom

This week no guns but given we’re upon the Independence Day holiday I thought the Ambassador of Ammo would morph into the Ambassador of Boom because a lot of BOOM was necessary to bring us the freedoms we enjoy.

First, how did I get to this point…

I received an invitation from one of our Rock 108 Listeners, Ethan, and his significant-other Melody, to join them for Atalissa Town Day fireworks which he promised me is quite an event.

Now, being one who is quick to judge (and being a person who is often difficult to get out of the house), I gave them a solid “maybe”.

One of my big concerns because as I just stated, I do tend to judge, was that a little town like Atalissa couldn’t possibly have much of a fireworks show. Why am I going to drive for an hour just to be disappointed?

But, after a late afternoon nap and a cup of Joe, I made a snap decision to travel an hour south to Atalissa.

Best decision I’ve made to leave the house in a while. 

Atalissa, Iowa Puts on one hell of a show!

Atalissa knows how to do fireworks! Maybe the best I’ve seen (and long- almost an hour) Everyone gathers outside the firehouse, on what seemed like a multi-use grassy area– Maybe a town square but also the back yards of several homes.

I have never been so close to the launch site for an Independence Day (or any) fireworks show.

How close?  I could sometimes feel the heat of the blast.  Debris fell on us with every violet flower and twinkling star that unfurled in the night sky.  A flaming rock of fireworks scree landed on my shirt. Lighter smoky debris and ash were constantly raining down too — we were in the action!

Explosions filled my entire field of view, as my smell-sense was overcome by the black-powder smoke and debris fell on me.

My mind wandered to 1814 when the attorney, Francis Scott Key, witnessed a twenty-five-hour siege and bombardment at Fort McHenry on that faithful night in the Chesapeake Bay fending off the Britts, and to the next morning when he wrote the Star-Spangled Banner.

Francis Scott Key’s Original Star-Spangled Banner

It turns out that the original full Star-Spangled Banner that Key penned was quite a bit different than the version we’ve come to know. Of course, we still sing the first verse, but did you know there were actually a few more? Here’s the full 4-verse version from The Smithsonian:

O say can you see, by the dawn’s early light,

What so proudly we hail’d at the twilight’s last gleaming,

Whose broad stripes and bright stars through the perilous fight

O’er the ramparts we watch’d were so gallantly streaming?

And the rocket’s red glare, the bombs bursting in air,

Gave proof through the night that our flag was still there,

O say does that star-spangled banner yet wave

O’er the land of the free and the home of the brave?

Verse 2

On the shore dimly seen through the mists of the deep

Where the foe’s haughty host in dread silence reposes,

What is that which the breeze, o’er the towering steep,

As it fitfully blows, half conceals, half discloses?

Now it catches the gleam of the morning’s first beam,

In full glory reflected now shines in the stream,

’Tis the star-spangled banner – O long may it wave

O’er the land of the free and the home of the brave!

Verse 3

And where is that band who so vauntingly swore,

That the havoc of war and the battle’s confusion

A home and a Country should leave us no more?

Their blood has wash’d out their foul footstep’s pollution.

No refuge could save the hireling and slave

From the terror of flight or the gloom of the grave,

And the star-spangled banner in triumph doth wave

O’er the land of the free and the home of the brave.

Verse 4

O thus be it ever when freemen shall stand

Between their lov’d home and the war’s desolation!

Blest with vict’ry and peace may the heav’n rescued land

Praise the power that hath made and preserv’d us a nation!

Then conquer we must, when our cause it is just,

And this be our motto – “In God is our trust,”

And the star-spangled banner in triumph shall wave

O’er the land of the free and the home of the brave.

The Great American Experiment

So, as we fought to gain independence from a tyrannical foreign government, we also developed a revolutionary new form of government— a new type of democracy; a representative democracy where the government works for and represents the people.

Until the great American experiment, all governments (even the democracies) were a form of tyranny– even if it was the tyranny of the majority against a minority class (as most democracies were and still are).

So here we are 246 years later. Let’s not revert to what we fought so hard to separate from.

This July Fourth, let’s talk about our founding. How America is the most successful, multi-racial, diverse country on earth. The greatness of the American Experiment is and always will be a fight worth fighting for.

We The People

As we go through our very public quarrels keep in mind, that we’re one of the few places on earth where it’s even allowed to have these discussions because ultimately, the government still has a rightful fear of — We The People!

About Russ: The Biker Community’s Ambassador of Ammo

Known as a professional Radio Gypsy, Russ is the voice of “crazy stories and bad behavior” on Rock 108 every weekday from 10 AM – 2 PM (CST). After a shooting expedition with friends, Russ found a new passion for firearms and is now searching to find the perfect fit to match his needs. Join him as he tests and reviews various guns and targets, learns gun safety, and occasionally blows stuff up every week right here!

Make sure to subscribe to this blog for email updates when Russ posts a new experience!

2 + 2 =

Radio DJ Settles the Glock Vs 1911 Debate

Radio DJ Settles the Glock Vs 1911 Debate

Radio DJ Settles the Glock Vs 1911 Debate

 

Posted on June 20, 2022 at 3:12 PM by The Biker Lawyers

Glock V. 1911- Controversy is brewing in this week’s blog

In the last blog and video, Adam from Midwest shooting showed me some options for guns I might want to purchase given my desire to become more familiar and comfortable with weapons.

Then the blog went live and OH BROTHER, did I get comments.

Thank you. Everyone was very helpful and hearing from those who have been around guns since childhood, made me appreciate all the thoughtful input.

Two things were by far the most commented on, and not only were they the most common responses but they fell into two camps with each feeling they were absolutely correct, held the moral high ground, and I shouldn’t consider any other opinions.

It was like talking to a metal head– “…only the music I like is any good and everything else might as well be Nickelback!” 

The Great Glock VS 1911 Controversy

The Great Glock VS 1911 Controversy was on full display in comments and the numerous private messages I received.

The Glock Crowd

I got so many comments which I will paraphrase here.

  • “There is only one 9mm platform and it’s the Glock, and I can’t believe you didn’t even demo that in your video,”
  • “Dude! Where’s the Glock?”
  • “You bastard! How much are the 1911 guys paying you?”
  • “Midwest shooting must be getting kickbacks from Kimber!”
  • “Your ‘salesman‘ Adam didn’t show you a Glock – shameful”

The Kimber Crowd

They were a little more positive.

  • “1911, the only handgun you ever need”
  • “Can’t go wrong with a gun that was in the Spanish American War”
  • “Glocks are ugly plastic crap”.

You get the idea.

“Suddenly, I found myself embroiled in a controversy I didn’t know even existed! So, in the spirit of experimentation and in the name of justice, I set out to settle the debate… once and for all.”

In the new video, I changed course a little and decided to try three guns to see which I liked best and could shoot the most accurately.

I chose a .22 caliber Smith and Wesson Victory, and two 9mm:  The Glock and Kimber 1911

And at the end of the video, I settle the Glock vs 9mm debate by declaring a winner which will be fiercely discussed and dismissed because I’ve only shot each of these guns for the first time and as we all know am a complete neophyte in this world.

In reality, I probably know more about the inner working of the bivalve scallop than I do handguns but that will not stop me from declaring a winner at the end of the video. Yes, you read correctly the headline in Guns and Owners Magazine will read: “RADIO DJ SETTLES THE GLOCK VS 1911 DEBATE”.

In the video Levi, one of the excellent staff at Midwest Shooting in Hiawatha, Iowa, took me to the range, gave me instructions on each weapon, and then cut me loose by emptying one clip (sorry, magazine) from each weapon into my paper assailant.

As always with Midwest, there’s lots of instruction with every interaction which I not only appreciate but learn from every time. So, here’s a rundown of my what I took to the range (in the order I shot them in the video):

The SW22 VICTORY

The SW22 VICTORY® is constructed on a single-action, enclosed hammer-fired, blowback semi-automatic design. Chambered in .22 LR, the SW22 Victory comes highly featured with innovative design qualities that include a match-grade, interchangeable barrel for superb accuracy on the range or in the field along with a simple one-screw takedown design.

The pistol’s high-end features, modern styling, and enriched functionality place the SW22 Victory in its own category with an affordable price to match.

The Glock 17 Gen 5 9mm

The new frame design of the GLOCK 17 Gen5 removed the finger grooves for more versatility but still allows to easily customize its grip by using the different back straps. A flared mag-well and a cutout at the front of the frame give the user more speed during reloading when fractions of a second matter. A reversible enlarged magazine catch, changeable at user level as well as the ambidextrous slide stop lever accommodate left and right-handed operators. The rifling and the crown of the barrel were slightly modified for increased precision.

Kimber Custom Stainless II 9mm

Kimber® has gained a solid reputation for manufacturing highly accurate M1911-style pistols, offered with a wide range of custom features direct from the factory. The full-sized Stainless II Semi-Auto Pistol is designed for field carry or personal defense with performance-enhancing features for enhanced accuracy and ultra-reliability.

  • A match-grade barrel, fitted to the slide with a match-grade stainless steel bushing produces incredibly consistent accuracy.
  • A full-length, steel guide rod ensures reliability.
  • Satin silver finished stainless steel slide and frame resist corrosion from carrying the pistol in a holster daily or exposure to the elements.
  • Front and rear cocking serrations facilitate loading and clearing the weapon.
  • An extended beavertail grip safety protects the hammer when carrying the weapon cocked and locked while minimizing hammer-bite to the web of the shooter’s hand while firing.
  • Checkered synthetic grip panels and a checkered main spring housing provide a solid, non-slip hold.

The Undisputable Winner of the Glock Vs. 1911 Debate is…

Bottom line: I did equally well with all three platforms, but which did I like best?  Well, Levi seems to think my decision will be quite controversial. Watch the video to find out then let me know in the comments your thoughts. I’m looking forward to furthering the discussion!

About Russ: The Biker Community’s Ambassador of Ammo

Known as a professional Radio Gypsy, Russ is the voice of “crazy stories and bad behavior” on Rock 108 every weekday from 10 AM – 2 PM (CST). After a shooting expedition with friends, Russ found a new passion for firearms and is now searching to find the perfect fit to match his needs. Join him as he tests and reviews various guns and targets, learns gun safety, and occasionally blows stuff up every week right here!

Make sure to subscribe to this blog for email updates when Russ posts a new experience!

Read More Ambassador of Ammo Reports

As always there will be different opinions. They best firearm is the one you have when you need it. Be safe, enjoy, and welcome to the addiction.
Joe Heck | 6/23/22 at 6:58 AM

5 + 5 =

I shot a .357 Magnum and I have Questions.

I shot a .357 Magnum and I have Questions.

I shot a .357 Magnum and I have Questions.

 

Posted on June 10, 2022 at 4:38 PM by The Biker Lawyers

What To Look For In A Hand Gun

I am looking to fulfill my interest in weapons by starting a collection soon.  Still not sure what to start with, a handgun or a long gun.

How am I supposed to know which gun to buy? Is it better to have a .357 or a 9mm? What are the best guns for self-defense?  Am I making the right choice buying a revolver?  Could this gun protect me at home? What about on the street? What size of bullet did I need? What caliber?

All valid questions and all of these get answered in this blog (and video). I am going to give my personal experience as I research buying my first firearm.

What Gun Should I Get?

My interests right now are target shooting and personal protection.

Side note- While at a station event- a fishing tournament, I happened to notice someone concealed carrying, something I wouldn’t have noticed before I took the short guns class at Midwest Shooting.  I was going to ask the carrier of said weapon about it, but being a newbie, and not knowing proper etiquette, I passed on that opportunity.

As you will see in the video, I went to my favorite Range and gun shop to get some sales advice on handguns.  What are the most popular?  What might I consider as a first-time gun owner?

Adam, the very patient sales associate gave me a tour of some of the most popular handguns I should consider and the following is the rundown of what he showed me and the descriptions from I gleaned from their websites.

These descriptions follow the order of the accompanying video.

Springfield XD-9mm  

The Defend Your Legacy Series XD® 4″ Service Model 9mm offers superlative XD attributes like an excellent grip-to-frame angle and both striker status and loaded chamber indicators along with a single 16-round magazine and lower price. The Ultra Safety Assurance Action Trigger System combines with the extraordinary SA grip safety to make the XD a safe and smooth striker-fired defensive pistol. A full-length guide rod ensures reliable slide cycling.

Verdict: I loved the Grip Safety on this weapon; very comfortable and not something you really have to think about.  In my past limited shooting experiences, the white, 3 dot sight, worked very well for me.

Sig Sauer P-226 Legion  

The Sig P226 Legion Full-Size DA/SA 9mm Luger Handgun features a solid build with improved maneuverability. This Sig Sauer 9mm is built with a unique P-SAIT trigger that offers an intermediate reach and a relatively short reset for smoother shot-to-shot performance.

X-RAY3 day/night sights on this 9mm pistol offer a clear sight picture in most light conditions, making target acquisition fast and precise. As a plus, the rear sight features a rackable ledge that allows one-handed slide manipulation.

To improve the grip and feel of the handgun, the Sig P226 has aggressive checkering on the front strap and underneath the trigger guard, as well as front cocking serrations on the slide. A durable Cerakote Elite Legion Gray coating protects against corrosion and wear. Perfectly balanced, the Sig P226 Legion Full-Size DA/SA 9mm Luger Handgun offers quick pointing and smooth performance with every shot.

Verdict: This was a very nice piece. We’ll put it in the maybe category.

Kimber Raptor (which I called a Tinder Raptor in the video  – Oops)

Micro 9 Raptor pistols are beautiful and concealed carry combined.

Modeled after the 1911 pistol family of the same name, these models boast patented scaled grips, slide top, and mainspring scalloping, slide and front strap scaling and an ambidextrous thumb safety.

Verdict: I found this to be the best looking of the bunch with the stainless steel and the really good-looking grip which you can see in the video and above.

Smith and Wesson 686 Revolver .357

Smith & Wesson L-Frame revolvers are built to suit the demands of the most serious firearms enthusiast.

Available in six and seven-shot cylinders, the L-Frame has a strong, durable frame and barrel built for continuous Magnum usage. As police officers and hunters will attest, this firearm is made to withstand heavy use.

Verdict: I like revolvers for some reason, but I think a .357 might be a bit much for me.  What do you think?

Smith and Wesson 442 Snub Nose revolver:

Smith & Wesson J-Frame revolvers have had your back since 1950.  These small revolvers were designed to fire a full power round and are as simple and easy to use as they are reliable.

 Available in various calibers and with three diverse hammer designs, it is no surprise that the Smith & Wesson J-Frame has become the most popular, small-frame, defense revolver on the market.

The Model 442 is a variation of the Model 42 Centennial Airweight® that integrates the time-tested features of the original with modern advancements.

• Lightweight alloy frame for easy carry
• Stainless steel barrel
• Carbon steel cylinder
• Snag-Free enclosed hammer
• Rated for continuous +P Use

Verdict: Small and, as such, lots of recoil so probably not for me but love the look.

Smith and Wesson Victory .22 

The SW22 VICTORY® is constructed on a single-action, enclosed hammer-fired, blowback semi-automatic design.

Chambered in .22 LR, the SW22 Victory comes highly featured with innovative design qualities that include a match-grade, interchangeable barrel for superb accuracy on the range or in the field along with a simple one-screw takedown design.

The pistol’s high-end features, modern styling, and enriched functionality place the SW22 Victory in a category of its own with an affordable price to match.

• Removable Interchangeable Match Barrel
• Steel Reinforced Polymer Thumb Safety
• Picatinny-style Rail Included
• Fiber Optic Front Sight
• Adjustable Fiber Optic Rear Sight
• (2) Ten-Round Magazines Included
• Adjustable Trigger Stop
• Stainless Steel Frame
• Textured Grip Panels with Finger Cuts for Easy Magazine Removal

Verdict: This gets very high marks as a preferred gun for range shooting. Great modern look which I like.

And last but not least…

Ruger SR-22 

Light double-action and crisp single-action trigger pull. The external hammer is designed with a rounded spur for easy cocking and single-action shooting.

Polymer frame and two interchangeable rubberized grips with angled serrations allow shooters to select either a slim or wider palm swell option (no tools required). The aerospace-grade aluminum slide has serrations on both the front and rear for better grip and slide manipulation.

Verdict: I enjoyed (and did well when) shooting a .22 so I’m giving it serious consideration. Unfortunately, Adam said .22’s are not the best for personal protection because of lack of overall power.

Next week we’ll be on the range firing the ones I like best and checking out some long guns. Subscribe to this blog to stay tuned!

About Russ: The biker community’s Ambassador of Ammo

Known as a professional Radio Gypsy, Russ is the voice of “crazy stories and bad behavior” on Rock 108 every weekday from 10 AM – 2 PM (CST). After a shooting expedition with friends, Russ found a new passion for firearms and is now searching to find the perfect fit to match his needs. Join him as he tests and reviews various guns and targets, learns gun safety, and occasionally blows stuff up every week right here!

Make sure to subscribe to this blog for email updates when Russ posts a new experience!

Russ, This is just my two cents for what it’s worth. I’ve carried firearms professionally for almost 20 years between military service and law enforcement. This is the advice I give everyone that asks about buying their first handgun. Go to a store and hold as many guns as you can. Does it feel comfortable? Can you manipulate the slide? Even better, go to a range that rents handguns and shoot a wide variety of models and calibers. Whatever handgun feels the most comfortable and that you can accurately and consistently hit the target with is what you should buy. After buying your handgun; go get some quality training from a good instructor. Best of luck finding the right handgun for you.
David | 6/16/22 at 11:29 AM
 
I have carried firearms professionally for almost 20 years in both the military and law enforcement, and this is the advice I give everyone looking to get their first handgun. Go to a store and hold as many as you can; even better if they have a range and you can rent and try out various guns. Don’t get fixated on a certain caliber being the best; it doesn’t do any good if you can’t shoot the gun. Whatever gun and caliber you feel comfortable with and can consistently hit a target with is what you should buy.
Dave | 6/16/22 at 11:19 AM
 
Russ, I have a few hand guns I carry a LCP II 380 in my pocket it’s comfortable and easy, I also have a hellcat 9mm that is very fun and carry’s easy, I have a revolver but they are alittle dangerous to carry I think. Hope this helps-Collin
Collin Brinkman | 6/11/22 at 4:19 PM

6 + 8 =

Memorial Day at the 2022 Raked Ape Rally, Klemme, Iowa

Memorial Day at the 2022 Raked Ape Rally, Klemme, Iowa

Memorial Day at the 2022 Raked Ape Rally, Klemme, Iowa

 

Posted on June 6, 2022 at 7:31 AM by The Biker Lawyers

Russ Rocks the 2022 Raked Ape Rally

Memorial Day weekend.  A time for remembrance of those who gave it all for our country. A time of rebirth and reunion as we commiserate not only with our Gold Star family and friends but with nature itself as she turns a corner from spring into summer.  This is a weekend for all that.

Nobody knows the Nexus between serving our country, respect for our fallen soldiers and the promise of a new season better than our biker friends. It’s been a long cold winter and Saturday of Memorial Weekend I decided to take a trip up Rt 118 to North Central Iowa and the town of Klemme for the Raked Ape Customs Annual Biker Rally.

The Ride to Klemme, Iowa

Over 2 1/2 hours to Klemme, IA from Cedar Rapids, IA and great day for the drive it was.

I loaded up my photo gear, made sure I had proper tire inflation to maximize gas mileage get a Dew for the ride and pointed the car to 380 North to 218-N out of Waterloo.  On thru Waverly, Allison, Aredale, Sheffield, Rockwell, Swaledale, and then more than 70 miles of unincorporated farmland.

No need for an odometer when you’ve got Dew…

I know it was 70 miles because given the amount of Mountain Dew I had consumed; I really needed a pit-stop exits with services are few and far between in this area of Iowa. (Author’s note: I made it with a few minutes to spare).

Motorcycles take over Main Street

Over 100 Bikes turned out for what was a perfect, albeit a little windy day but hey, If you ride in Iowa you’re always dealing with some wind and Saturday was no different.

Flags were flying, some on the backs of bikes as they rode into Main Street for the display.  Both sides of the street were lined with bikes, mostly Harley but also a couple Indians, and a beautiful old-school Honda.

I even met a close to 80-year-old Vietnam Vet Named Peg Leg [Pictured above, right], who drove up on his Hog and a pre-teen on his custom Coleman mini-bike showing off his pull-start hardware alongside the more powerful and bigger neighboring bikes.

Raked Ape Rally Events

Later in the day there was Barbeque, a rock band, and a wet T-shirt contest but first we had to judge a bike show with awards for Best Chopper, Best Paint, Best Custom and Best Stock.

“I’ve known this for many years but worth repeating the biking community are great people– Fun loving, safety minded, easy to talk to and loaded with great stories.  I had some great conversations and met some really great people on Saturday.”

-Russ, The Ambassador of Ammo

Meeting The Caveman of Klemme

On the way out, I spent a few minutes with “Caveman” who owns Raked Ape Customs and the Raked Ape Bar and Grill next door.  Caveman embodies everything I just said about bikers and is also a huge personality who obviously loves what he does and the people he serves.

In the video that accompanies this blog [below], I had a chat with Caveman and he told me the story of the Raked Ape and how it came out of his lifelong love of bikes and the Pandemic of the last two years.

I will definitely be back for the bigger and better rally next year in Klemme, Iowa!

About Russ: The biker community’s Ambassador of Ammo

Known as a professional Radio Gypsy, Russ is the voice of “crazy stories and bad behavior” on Rock 108 every weekday from 10 AM – 2 PM (CST). After a shooting expedition with friends, Russ found a new passion for firearms and is now searching to find the perfect fit to match his needs. Join him as he tests and reviews various guns and targets, learns gun safety, and occasionally blows stuff up every week right here!

Make sure to subscribe to this blog for email updates when Russ posts a new experience!

12 + 6 =

The Quest for the Perfect Piece (Gun Shopping and More)

The Quest for the Perfect Piece (Gun Shopping and More)

The Quest for the Perfect Piece (Gun Shopping and More)

Posted on May 23, 2022 at 3:56 PM by The Biker Lawyers

Guns and Ammo Culture in Iowa

I’ve been on a quest to join the guns and ammo culture in Iowa.

“It’s nice to live in a state where guns aren’t necessarily frowned upon and ownership of one tags the owner as a potential homicidal maniac, rather a responsible member of society with legitimate pro-gun views and a lover of the Second Amendment. ” 

-Russ, The Ambassador of Ammo

It all started a few weeks ago when I was invited for a day of shooting on a farm in Urbana (Carman farms) with a bunch of the locals who are also P-1s to Rock 108.  It was a great day.  We had many different platforms: pistols, long guns, and shotguns.

A Range of Targets on the Range

We shot steel targets, Zombie bleeding targets [as seen in the video above], and even blew stuff up with Tannerite targets. Skeet shooting was also on the menu and while I had two goes at the clay, I was never able to score one… being bested by a 5-year-old with what looked like a toy gun [not seen in the video above] which of course it wasn’t, it was a shogun sized for a young’un.

After this experience, I decided I needed a new hobby, one that maybe offers me some comfort and protection too in uncertain times.

Fast forward a few weeks and I hook up with Wade and the folks at Midwest shooting to expand my knowledge of weapons and what a ride this has been.  Brian, Ned, and I took a class at Midwest Shooting in firearms safety, learned how to handle various guns, and then had a friendly target competition where I came in dead last.

Side note from the author: my geezer-ish thumbs were not very good at loading the magazines, I will definitely need an auto-loader.

So, I have a little work to do to sharpen my skills.  Over the next few weeks, I will be going to Midwest shooting, where they allow you to try-it before you buy-it, and try to figure out what my best option is for a firearm.  I will post everything as both videos and blogs so you can follow along. Also, If you have suggestions of what guns I should try out drop a comment on the Facebook post or send me an email to russ@rock108.com.

Some questions I have (that maybe we can answer together): 

  1. I seem to handle and be more accurate with low-energy guns.  I was most accurate with the .22 revolver and the .22 rifle.  So, do you think I should stick with .22 caliber?
  2. Does it normally take a little longer to get comfortable with the higher energy weapons and the control of the recoil? 
  3. I do realize it’s been only two days of shooting and any new endeavor takes time and practice but, I want it all and I want it now! How do I stay patient?!

That’s it for this week. Will I ever find The Perfect Piece? Check back with me, The Ambassador of Ammo, every week to follow my journey into the world of guns and ammo.

About Russ, The Ambassador of Ammo

Known as a professional Radio Gypsy, Russ is the voice of “crazy stories and bad behavior” on Rock 108 every weekday from 10AM – 2PM. Make sure to subscribe to this blog for email updates when Russ posts a new experience!

Fun Russ Fact: Russ is also the voice actor who plays the role of Michael Hunt in GTA 3 and appears as Michael and other characters throughout the franchise.

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