HAWKS,

Its December, as if you didn’t know. Since there was no meeting there is no need for minutes, which takes up most of the space in the Newsletter. I thought I would share some thoughts with you, since we are beginning the last year of my Secretaryship or Secretaryism, which ever works for you, therefore humor an old man.

In reality I have served as Secretary since 2007 under he who shall remain nameless and in 2011 when the remaining members decided to trudge on, you decided you could take a little more of me. You have no idea how much fun this has been. If you have never been an officer or director you need to try it, it really is fun.

I visited, several times, the construction site of the Christmas Float. I saw many of our guys getting dirty, sweating, eating chili and enjoying each other’s company and creating something. There wasn’t much this old body would allow me to do, but I loved being there. Please please guys get involved with projects.

The Christmas Parade was tonight and we made a wonderful presence, we placed second behind the 4-H group and their horses. All that work paid off, big time. Thanks to all the guys who gave up Saturdays putting this float together. The guys that were always there were, Chiles, Bowling, Garner, Andersen, Hoying, Morris, Bova (new guy) and Smith, I hope I have not left anyone off. Oh Crap! I forgot Dennis Morey, the father of parade floats. Thanks to one and all who put in time on the float and who participated in the parade, including Jim (Grinch) Hasslinger. I actually saw a smile on his face as the parade past my vantage point. Just kidding, Jim, you big teddy bear.

The Range planning is taking it’s good ole sweet time, as it should. Any thing worth doing is worth doing right and we want to make sure all “t” are crossed and “i” dotted.

I look at this endeavor sort of like McDonalds, Burger King, Wendy’s, you see one on every corner and they all spurn business for each other. We have 84 members as of this writing and some of you never use HAWKS as an opportunity to shoot. I know, many of you just go out in your own back yards or pastures and blaze away. It’s a lot more fun and informative if we shoot in a group with a purpose. Every time I shoot with our group I come away with a little more knowledge and experience. We have some guys who know a hell-of-a-lot about firearms and are willing to share with the other kiddies. If this project happens it will draw us closer as a group, I promise.

The Christmas party was a success, however, with reservations. It was great being all together and festive, stuffing ourselves with all the great food. The head count was 71, which was way too many people for that room, who was to know? I hope all us sardines had a good time and hopefully next get-together will be in a facility that is a little more comfortable. I shoulda had an RSVP going to prepare for the big group. We can’t thank Don Alexander of Alexander’s Meat Market and his wife, Kelli of Neighbor’s Insurance Agency, enough for the delicious ham donated to the group and thanks to Robbie Robertson for arranging the donation.

Ok, guys, here comes 2015---ready or not!

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to all of us and our families.

Ron

WEB REPORT by George Brown

Pictures of the Christmas paarade are now on the web.This includes one video.

Just My Opinion

Wheel Guns Are Never Out Of Style.

If that were not true you wouldn’t see Smith and Wesson, plus others, cranking out new models about every time you turn around. In the latest issue of American Rifleman, Wiley Clapp, AR’s Field Editor reports on S&W’s latest offerings. The model 69 (.44 Mag.), and the “new” model 66 (.357 Mag.). Both are L frame versions (beefier than a K frame and lighter than a N frame. The frame size makes good sense for both revolvers. The K framed guns in .357 got a bad rap for splitting the forcing cone at the 6 o’clock area. This mostly involved the Model 19 and the stainless version the model 66. As I understand it, this came to be after the hot, light magnum load became popular. Still, I suspect it would take a lot of shooting to cause this to happen. That said, S&W clearly stated that those guns were designed to shoot 10 rounds of .38 Special to 1 round of .357 Mag.. Today, if you would be unlucky enough to damage the forcing cone you would most likely have nothing more than a parts gun. S&W does not make barrels for these guns anymore. I knew about this when I bought a used model 19 a few years ago. It is in great shape and I intend to keep it that way. I shoot only .38 Special in it. If I need to shoot a hot .357 load I grab my Model 686. You won’t tear that baby up. I promise.

The new model 69 shaves some ounces off the weight when compared to the Model 29. That makes it somewhat easier to carry but I would expect the recoil to be heavier. The model 29 was spirited enough as it is. I had a matching pair several years ago. I sold one and my wife cabbaged on to the other. That was “her” gun. Those days are long gone. I did acquire a vented .44 Mag made by Taurus a few years back. Looks like a clone of the model 29. I bought it for big hog medicine. I carry it in a rig called the Chesty Puller (you know, the famous Marine General). It works great. It is right up front on your chest and all the weight is distributed evenly. Hardly know its there.

The new Model 66 is a great idea for those that want to shoot hot loads on a regular basis. According to Clapp there is hardly any difference in size to the older model. Just much tougher. Time will tell, I guess.

A good revolver is just plain fun to shoot. They are a perfect training tool for new shooters and are never out of place for the older crowd. For those with an interest I suggest you read Wiley’s article. Starts on page 45. I can’t begin to describe these guns as well as he can.

If you have a good revolver just sitting in your safe, take it out for a walk now and then. I’m sure you will both enjoy the experience. But of course, that’s Just My Opinion.

Happy Shooting Allen

___________________________________________________________________

November Newsletter

2014 is winding down and the mid-term elections are history, thank God no more political advertising on the tube, for a while at least. I haven’t seen the print at this point, but I think the NRA candidates did fairly well. Maybe the anti-gunners will take a break for a bit and let us alone, yeah, fat chance…

A few members are looking into the possibility of constructing a gun range and including a building that we can call our own and have our meetings. There is a lot of work and a lot of details to be solidified before we start moving dirt. If you haven’t filled out the survey as to whether you want or don’t want the range please get a copy from Dennis Morey and fill it out. The committee WANTS your thoughts, suggestions and concerns and it’s a short survey and won’t take a minute.

We did HALLOWEEN with fewer volunteers than we would like to have had and the FINE ARTS MARKET is also over with quite a few volunteers less than needed. The FAM was poorly advertised and promoted and many volunteers were not aware that there was a dinner furnished Friday night at no charge. The few who did work “eyes and ears” were lacking in information asked of it and there was a misunderstanding as to what our (the HAWKS’) duties and responsibilities are and what is expected of us. The Four Corners Group, who administers the market will be advised what we do and what we do not do.

Next stop, North Pole with candy canes, happy faces, bowls of smoking Bishop and good cheer. I hope I’m first to wish one and all Happy Thanksgiving, Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.

Web Report by George Brown

I have started a new section on our web page called the Hunters Corner. If anyone who has pictures of hunting trophies will email them to me I will get them on the web. The new section is located under the about us tab. Also the pictures from the Veterans Day service at Autumn Winds are now on the web.

Minutes for November

The meeting was opened with our usual format.

John Bowling introduced member Don Hightower, who promoted and explained trapping for fur, which could be a dying art if not for a few enthusiastic hangers-ons. With land becoming more developed and more animal rights groups interfering and causing concern we hear less and less about the art. Thanks Don you did a great job, very interesting.

Ray Hollingsworth reported on Friends of NRA convention, including the progress or lack of to date with the Wall of Guns promo and results of raffle of K-2 cooler at gun show. Next Wall of Guns will involve winning three guns at $25.00 per ticket at the workshop coming up in Athens in February.

George, the webmaster, announced he has added a new page to the website, entitled “The Hunter’s Corner” visit it and see what it’s all about.

Treasurer Dave asked for questions regarding the latest report, with none he sat down.

Paul brought us up to date on the Scholarship project and asked for suggestions on other ways to raise money for scholarships including a possible Chili Cook-off. John added that one scholarship had not been used at this point.

Al Andersen brought to the membership a possible donation candidate from the American Legion, and was referred to the Charity Committee for checking out.

Wayne was asked to report on VIPS program, referred to Doug, and then proceeded to update us on the next three speakers in early 2015. Another F.A.S.T. is being scheduled this spring, more info to follow.

Doug reported on VIPS including an appreciation from Chief Andy Chester for our help with Halloween and The Fine Art Market, with the next project being a 1K and 5K run on the 15^th of November. Next will be the Christmas Parade on December 5^th starting at 6:00 pm.

Dennis Morey updated the progress on the building of the parade floats and asked that anyone can play, come to his house on Saturday at 10:00 am. He promoted the survey for the design and build of a gun range. Tuesday November 11^th will be a ceremony for the Vets living at Autumn Wind assisted living facility. The HAWKS will present an American Flag in a display box made by Al Andersen and two plaques thanking the Vets.

Paul suggested a blood drive as a project for the HAWKS or a mentoring program for WHS, if anyone is interested.

Mel Mellenberger reported on the estimate of a 20’x 8’ x 8’6” for $2450.00 delivered, which the city will cover one thousand dollars and asks the HAWKS provide the balance. Wayne suggested the protocol on charity requests, however it was determined that the Shelter is a standing charity for HAWKS and that protocol was not necessary, nor is it necessary to waive the procedure. Wayne made the motion to suspend the rules, seconded by James Morris, vote passed. Wayne Scott moved we spend the $1,450.00 to purchase the storage unit, Doug Grantham seconded the motion, vote passed with 2 opposed.

Ron Smith explained the dates for Rimfire for the last Saturday in March, April and May, the F.A.S.T. is scheduled for May 30^th and additional training will be mandatory, per WGC and WGC will ok non-members to coach as long as training requirements are met.

(Since starting this newsletter it was learned that according to Allen Tuell, HAWKS would NOT be permitted to coach Rim fire shooters unless they are WGC members.)

John Bowling offered free tickets to a Bill Wediken demo on pottery making on November 16^th at Winnsboro Center for the Arts, Bill lost his legs and his eyesight in Viet Nam.

Tea Party representative Vince (could not get last name) was introduced.

Meeting was adjourned

Just My Opinion

Best Bullet Type For The .380?

Many of us carry a .380, either as a back-up or as our primary weapon. I just can’t make myself carry one of these as my primary handgun. I do, however, carry one at times as a back-up. The problem lies not so much in the gun itself but the ammo we load in it. It is a safe bet that most of us use some sort of HP ammo in these guns. That appears to be a mistake. Why? Lack of deep penetration. A .380 is simply not a powerful cartridge. While it may take down a skinny crook in a tee shirt it may fail badly on a big dude wearing a winter coat that is jacked up on drugs. The more I read from writers I respect the more I’m convinced that a flat nosed hard cast bullet is the best choice by far. Don’t confuse a hard cast bullet with a simple lead bullet. A lead bullet will expand on contact and may make an ugly surface wound but not penetrate deeply enough to hit the vitals. Conversely a hard cast bullet will not expand but drive deeply into meat, bone and guts and raise all sorts of havoc along the way. Even out of the wimpish .380. I had been loading mine with Cor-Bon Pow’r Ball but that is about to change. Pow’r Ball is wonderful stuff once you move past the .380. I love it in a .45, but lots of wonderful loads can be had for that caliber. These days its Hornady Critical Duty that graces my .45 carry guns. If I lived in a congested area or had several people in the house I would most likely opt for the new Federal Guard Dog. Not in .380, however. That would be an awful choice. Hard cast all the way with that caliber.

What makes Guard Dog different is that it is a FMJ that expands. That’s right. It expands. At first glance it looks like a jacketed flat nosed bullet. But under the covers there is a front layer of polymer with a lead alloy bullet holding up the rear. On impact the polymer compresses and causes the lead to open up just like a HP. This is not a hell raising round nor was it meant to be. It was designed to tear up the bad guy yet not penetrate walls and take out Grandma while she knits. It is a home defense round that makes a lot of sense and the test results are very positive. That said, it would not be my cup of tea for normal carry.

So, where do you look for the hard cast ammo? Well, I trust Buffalo Bore. You can find them on-line. I shoot the stuff in my 10mm Auto. Also in my .44 Mag. Not a lot, however. It ain’t cheap! Still, they are in line with other premium ammo makers.

A gun is only as effective as the ammo you feed it. But, of course, that’s Just My Opinion.

Happy Shooting Allen

HAWKS Birthdays in November

Donnie Avant, Nov. 25^th; “Down Town” George Brown, Nov. 30^th; John Paul Cofer, Nov. 15^th; Roger Farr, Nov. 5^th; Hardy Hamm, Nov. 15^th; Mel Mellenberger “OooRah” Nov. 11^th; Wayne Ruyle, Nov. 8^th; “The Other”Ron Smith, 28^th; and finally David “Tex” Willis, Nov. 10^th. The HAWKS want to wish each and every one of y’all the very best Birthday you have ever or will ever have.

Final Notes

Rubin Purcell, Winnsboro’s Animal Control Officer, stopped by coffee to thank everyone for their support in procuring a storage facility for donated dog and cat food for future use. It was also learned that the manufacturer that went belly-up and donated their inventory, has another facility and will be supplying the shelter with a continuing supply of donated food.

For the number of vets we have in our organization we had a small turn-out for the Veteran’s Day visit and presentation to the Autumn Wind Assisted Living Facility. The old Toastmaster John Milligan did a marvelous job in his presentation and reading of the plaques to the home. John was aided by “Skinny” Garner in the presentation of the flag and display case. One vintage car was in attendance, the 1940 Pontiac Coupe owned by A.C. and Kathy Wilkins, however, it was too cold to wheel these fragile old souls out to see it.

Don’t forget the HAWK’S Christmas Party (not Happy Holiday Party) coming up instead of the usual Business Meeting, December 4^th at the First National Bank Community Room. Bring finger food, deserts or side dishes, the meat and drink furnished by Alexander’s Meat Market and the HAWKS.

___________________________________________________________________

Newsletter for October 2014

The banquet for 2014 is over and it was a rousing success, again. The food was great as usual, the music was very pleasing and the company as always couldn’t be better. My count isn’t the most accurate but I got 105 meals served, that’s almost 20 more than last year. I don’t know how we could make it better, but if anyone has any suggestions we want to hear them. The only down side to the Civic Center is the acoustics, it would be difficult to find some place with tables and chairs, food service and as big. But, we’ll try.

I had many comments on how nice the tables looked and the effort to make it that way. A huge thank you to Denise Miranda, Karen Chiles, Susan “Bling” Glass and Nina Browning for their efforts, they did a marvelous job. In addition we need to thank Lori’s Eats and Sweets of Gilmer for good, hot and timely food. (I do wish the cobbler was a little larger) And I think we owe a big thank you to Shannon Monk, Miss Demeanor and the Groove Felons.

Congratulation and job well done by Jimmy Doonan and Ron Smith – co HAWKS of the Year, both most deserving and two guys you can always count on.

Congratulations to all the medal winners, too numerous to name, but the shooting, this year while having less participants, still the scoring for the most part was top notch. Like Scott Riddle said, if you are not participating you are missing a good time and after all isn’t that why we joined a gun club. Ken Pool and Scott Riddle do a marvelous job in running the shoots. Heck, I’d consider either of them for HAWK of the Year! Wait a minute, they already are…

October Business Meeting Minutes

Would you believe 28? We only had 28 brave souls at the October meeting!!! Mark Scirtto, Doc Deason or Scott Fossey threatened us with scary weather and sho-nuff, it came through. It rained like heck all during the meeting which was over by 7:15 pm as our planned speaker begged off.

Paul opened the meeting by letting Dennis Morey promote his idea of making our Fourth of July entry to the parade a permanent project of the HAWKS, motion was made by Ken Schwab, seconded by Robby Robertson, vote passed. Dennis followed with a motion to do the same for Christmas, seconded by Ken Schwab, vote passed. John led the group in the pledge and James Cash followed with the Invocation. Paul welcomed new member Dennis Davis and we had no visitors, in addition the speaker, Katie Baker of Warriors on Water cancelled due to weather.

In Dave’s absence Paul said there would be no Financial update and the meeting was turned over to Ron. Ron threatened to read the previous months minutes but was shouted down. The new roster is now available, and requested that the survey for the banquet be filled out and submitted. He then announced the Fine Arts Market would be Nov. 7,8 and 9 and we will be asked to provide eyes and ears. The Halloween event is on and Market and Elm will be closed, Brookshires will have a “game arena” set up and a haunted house will be open. The HAWKS’ Christmas Party is scheduled for December 4^th with the location to be announced. The rifle plaque is in progress and the calendar is being updated, and finalized with an announcement on the Meet & Greet.

Dave came in late and was called on for a report on our financial report, but there were no questions. Dave switched to the Rally needing one more check point covered,

Ken Pool went through the four safety rules and encourage one and all to come out to the range and shoot, he stressed the importance of practicing and become more proficient with a handgun. Robbie Robertson requested business cards with the four shooting rules on the back, Wayne will look into it. Ken Pool suggested that we schedule a crew to come back to the Center to clean up and allow the entertainment to continue at the banquet.

Wayne addressed the raffle tickets and asked for someone to sell tickets at the Cruise – In, and continued with the VIPS requests.

Ray Hollingsworth addressed the Friends of NRA progress, including account set-up, Wall of Guns at the Cruise – In, and table costs for Friends of NRA banquet.

After a closing prayer from James Cash the meeting was adjourned.

JUST MY OPINION

The Holster Dilemma

Why is it harder to choose a decent holster than a carry gun? Maybe its just me. I dunno. I have several guns quite suitable for carry and a drawer full of holsters not suitable for packing them. And, I can’t bring myself to cull them out. The larger ones are not in the dresser drawer. They dangle from hangers in closets. This is not the way to make points with my bride. She gets right to the point. “Are you ever going to use those things?” “Well...maybe.” “Like when!” “I’m not sure, but it could happen.”

She knows she can’t beat that logic, so the subject is closed for the moment. The next day I notice a couple of the larger holsters on the closet floor. You just can’t buy decent hangers these days!

Last month I mentioned that I got a Springfield XDs 4.0. Great carry gun, but none of my holsters really worked with it. OWB holsters are not difficult to find. IWB, at least for me, is a whole different story. Since I resemble the Pillsbury Doughboy these days, finding a IWB holster that is functional and comfortable is no easy task. To compound the situation, these guns are quite new and not all holster makers have caught up. After a fair amount of internet searching I found a maker listing some holsters just for the 4.0 model. I didn’t look over everything he sells but most seem to be the “hybrid” type. I guess that means a leather backing with a molded polymer shell. They offered a 30 day return so I ordered one that looked promising. The company is called Vedder Holsters and their prices are mid-range. The one I ordered was 60 bucks. The shipping was free and it arrived within a week. The leather backing is thick, yet comfortable. The leather is shaped to fit the contour of your side. The belt hooks are sturdy spring steel and grip the belt like a python squeezing a rat. You won’t pull this holster off in the heat of battle. The holster itself fit my gun like a glove. The trigger and trigger guard is completely covered when the gun is holstered. The holster is adjustable for cant and gun height. I found no reason to change anything.

Of course the big test is wearing it. Standing up is a breeze with most any IWB but sitting and driving is another matter. Something was always poking me in the gut or leg.

Since we had some out of town shopping to do, I hitched it up and gave it a test drive around the house. Sure, I knew it was there, but nothing uncomfortable. Sitting was not a problem, so we headed out in the buggy for Walmart. Before long, I quit noticing I was wearing it. Same can be said while trudging through the endless aisles at WallyWorld. I found me a holster!

If tooled leather is your thing, this ain’t for you. If a solid value trips your trigger, it is worth a look-see. But of course, that’s Just My Opinion.

Happy Shooting Allen

WEB REPORT by George Brown

At the last meeting I was supposed to give a report on Facebook, but I neglected to do so. Consequently I decided to include it in the newsletter this month. During a conversation that I had with a lady in Quitman, she mentioned that she thought Facebook is a superior way to engage in online communications because it is more widely used than web pages, and it is free. She said that the HAWKS should create a Facebook account, especially if we wished to generate more publicity increase our membership.

I brought her suggestion before the board, and after a lengthy discussion it was rejected on the following grounds. One Facebook is much less secure than a typical web page, two it full of annoying advertisements, and three, it might not be the kind of publicity that is desirable or beneficial to the HAWKS. If these facts change in the future, the board may reconsider their position, but for now, there are no plans to set up a Facebook account for the HAWKS.

In other web news, the pictures from the banquet and the fall gun show are on the web page now. You can view them by hovering your mouse over about us and clicking on pictures.

HAWKS OCTOBER BIRTHDAYS

Jim Butz, Oct.21^st; Efton Edwards, Oct. 17^th; Ron Miranda, Oct.15^th; Bill Rogers, Oct. 20^th; Ken Schwab, Oct. 16^th; James Smith, Oct.22^nd; and new member Dennis Davis, Oct.2^nd.

The HAWKS wish each and everyone a very Happy Birthday, may it be the best ever or the best to come.

_________________________________________________________

September News Letter

I’m confused. I read an article on Al Gore’s Internet, an article on August 23^rd. and the source is Law Center to Prevent Gun Violence. The piece started with a map showing the States that prohibit open carry of hand guns, States that show open carry permitted with a permit and finally, the States that permit open carry without a license or permit. Six states and D.C. DO NOT permit open carry which includes California, Illinois, New York and D.C. no surprise here. But also includes Florida, South Carolina and TEXAS, surprise here.

If I were a resident of the state I would still be apprehensive about carrying open in Washington, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Michigan, Oregon or Delaware. Another 13 states say “ok” to open carry as long as you have a permit and include Massachusetts, Connecticut, New Jersey and Maryland, yeah, like that’s gonna happen. According to the author, Rani Molla, gun-rights advocates see the practice as a way to normalize gun ownership and deter crime, while gun-control activists believe carrying guns in stores and restaurants is disruptive to the public and encourages violence. Being licensed in Texas I believe as Wayne does, even if I’m in a state where open carry is legal, my license says concealed, plus even though all indicators are saying it serves to deter crime I’m not sure I, personally, like open carry. And I am surprised that Texas is dragging its feet when it comes to supporting gun laws, plus I wouldn’t want to be in the same company as California, Illinois and New York. I know I flinch every time I see the group, Open Carry Texas, parading around with ARs and other armament strapped on their backs and their defiant attitudes, I doubt, are converting any fence setters.

PISTOL TOURNAMENT RESULTS

Congratulations to all of the shooters who participated in the Wednesday/Thursday/Saturday event.

All Around Winners were; A Class – Scott Riddle, B Class - Chuck Knox,

C Class – John Bowling

Rim Fire Winners were; A Class – Ladale York, B Class – Ray Hollingsworth, C Class – Ron Miranda

Center Fire Winners were; A Class – Scott Riddle, B Class – Chuck Knox, C Class – John Bowling

RIFLE TOURNAMENT RESULTS

50 yard Rimfire Class A John Bowling

50 yard Rimfire Class B Bill Rogers

100 yard Small Bore Center Fire Class B Bill Rogers

100 yard Small Bore Center Fire Class C Dennis Morey

100 yard Large Bore Center Fire Class A Dale Koslucher

100 yard Large Bore Center Fire Class B Dave Koch

100 yard Large Bore Center Fire Class C Ray Hollingsworth

GUN SHOW NOTES

Well, another one is in the books.

One of the vendors told me they look forward to our show and one in Sweetwater, Texas. In Sweetwater they look for all the red shirts and in Winnsboro they look forward to the blue shirts. People keep coming back to Winnsboro because of the treatment and courtesy they receive. This is all due to Doug Grantham, Carolyn Burns, the Chamber and the HAWKS.

We tried something new, which worked out well, a Community Table. Five bucks per gun and you could put your personal gun on the table and have a fantastic sales force pushing them. We won’t know for weeks if the attendance exceeded last show, but my personal opinion is, the crowd was not as big as last show. We still sold raffle tickets, Terry Thompson and Gary Garner were selling fools --- again!

If the Community Table was any indication, sales for the rest of the show was good. There seemed to be a good deal of interest in revolvers, a continuing search for 22 LRs, reasonably priced ammo in general and world peace. There were a lot of ARs but not as many as last show, more shotguns (of course we’re coming into hunting season) and a ton of semi-automatic pistols. We’ll have more information when Doug gets the final figures and attendance.

SEPTEMBER BUSINESS MEETING MINUTES

Paul opened the meeting by welcoming members and guests and addressed the health concerns of members and families of members. Jimmy led the pledge followed by Mr. Cash and the Invocation, that was followed by Ken leading the recitation of Cooper’s four rules to safe gun handling.

John then introduced Oscar Martinez who proceeded to scare the hell out of everyone with the truth about our southern border and the lack of security there. He addressed several subjects all scarier than the earlier one.

Dave confirmed the Treasurers report had gone out and asked if there were any questions. Dave was followed by George, who said there was nothing new on the website. Ron addressed the banquet and the shut-off time, the VIPS will be asked to conduct traffic control for Halloween down town, he announced he had the storage unit key and could accept donations any time, finally the Roster is in flux but will be updated soon. Doug and Jimmy double dipped and gave a brief Gun Show report saying all was ready.

Paul opened the New Business portion and asked the members their feelings on moving back to First National Bank. Jim Hasslinger moved and James Morris seconded that we stay at His House for our meetings after some discussion the vote passed with four against staying. The next item was to change our meeting from 6:30 to 6:00 pm. Doug Grantham moved and Paul Bennett seconded vote carried with 6 opposed. The charity committee was discussed with its new procedure. The three main charities will remain The Winnsboro Animal Shelter, our Scholarship work, and the WFDs Toys for Tots. Any additional requests will, after submitting the proper request, in writing to the Board of Directors, they will determine whether it will be sent to Committee. After investigation the Committee will return the request to the BoD with a recommendation, if it is approved it will go before the members for their approval, no vote was necessary.

Ken Pool and Ray Hollingsworth were called on for a Friends of NRA banquet report.

Jim Butz and Ken Pool addressed the continuing confusion of who can and who cannot shoot at the Winnsboro Gun Club Range. The whole problem seems to be what can or cannot be listed as a HAWKS’ event on the WGC Yearly Calendar. This will continue to be discussed until every member understands it, so we can eliminate any confusion and hurt feelings.

Wayne made a plea for volunteers to help with parking and traffic control during the Cruise-In. Those volunteering for traffic duty will be issued the standard traffic vests.

Paul asked for ideas and guys to work high traffic areas to sell raffle tickets, and he encouraged all to get flu shots.

This marathon meeting was adjourned.

HAWKS BIRTHDAYS TO CELEBRATE

Donnie Avant, Sep. 25^th.; Gregg Calloway, Sep.20^th.; Allen Gold, Sep. 26^th.; Ken Goodson, Sep. 10^th.; Doug Grantham, Sep.22^nd.; Charles McAfee, Sep.16^th.; Al Stillman, Sep.11^th.;

JUST MY OPINION

My New Best Friend

It seems a new handgun is introduced about every day of the week. I take several gun and hunting magazines and make it a point to read the reviews just to try to keep up. I rarely get excited by what I see as most of the "new" stuff is really not all that new. Just some different makeup. However, this past month three magazines in a row featured Springfield Amory's latest XDs. Their XD line has been a hit from the beginning. And, they never stop making improvements. They have churned out 62 models over the years, both full sized and small and everything in between. What made me sit up and take notice was that they increased the barrel length on this model by .7". How could something less than 3/4" make a difference? Well, every review I've read says it made a big difference. Its no secret that the longer the sight radius the easier the gun is to shoot accurately. Short barreled guns are the hardest to master by far. And that only starts the improvements. More on that in a minute.

This new offering is called the XDs 4.0. 4.0 stands for the barrel length. It comes in two calibers. 9mm and .45 ACP. The other XDs model sports a 3.3" barrel. For now, the XDs 4.0 comes in a package as does the smaller version. What you get is a well made and lockable hardcase, 2 magazines (one holds 5 rounds and the extended mag holds 7 in the .45 ACP version). A well made and comfortable paddle holster, a magazine holder for two mags, A spare magazine extension should you buy another 7 round magazine, a interchangable backstrap, a bore brush, a cable lock, two replacement fiber optic strands, one yellow and one red and a well written operation manual in English only. Also included is the spent case from the Blue Pill they shot through the gun prior to shipping..

The gun sports a fiber optic front sight and white dots on the rear. The sights are fixed.

The magazine release is ambidextrous.

This is a single stack pistol that is very thin and light weight. Just right, in my opinion.

Most, if not all other striker fired pistols are DAO. This is a true SA pistol. In the case of, say, a Glock, the gun is only half cocked when a new round is loaded. Finger pressure completes the cocking before it goes bang. With this gun, it is completely cocked when the slide moves 3/4" rearward in the cycling process. With lots of practice this means you can shoot the gun much faster as it ready to go immediately. I don't see that as a big deal to me, but the concept is good. Also, SA in a striker fired gun is nothing like shooting a SA 1911. There is still quite a bit of trigger travel before you meet resistance. I like that in a defensive weapon. I know when it will go off.

Another feature I like is the introduction of a grip safety. Just like on a 1911. There are lots of reports of a Glock going off after it is dropped and someone tries to catch it. If your finger hits the trigger it will go bang. Not so with the XDs 4.0. It takes a firm grip by a human hand and the trigger being pulled at the same time to set it off.

After reading all those stellar reviews I gave in and called our good friends over at Village Pawn. I spoke with Jay McClendon and asked if he had one in stock. The answer was no, but I can have one here tomorrow. I was getting hooked. Finally I asked the price. He asked if I wanted it in all black or with a polished stainless steel receiver. Black was fine. The price was $499. The fancier one was something like $60 more. He had it ordered before I hung up.

Once I got it home I read the manual a few times and did some dry firing to try and get a feel for it. The next morning I grabbed some ammo and started shooting. I only shot from 7 yards. I started out with FMJ practice ammo and ended up shooting some Hornady Critical Duty. This stuff is 220 grain +P meanness Oddly enough I saw no difference in recoil. That is testimony to the new powders being used today. I'm no great shot these days but all rounds stayed within the chest area. The recoil is crisp but manageable. I still need work learning the trigger but my shots improved as I went along. It seems to shoot at point of aim but I need to shoot from a rest to be sure. This is not a gun you run 100 rounds through at a time. No indeed! After 30 rounds I'd had enough for the first session. The sun was up by now and I was sweating like a Turk. I shot mostly using the flush magazine. Not as comfortable as using the extended mag, but when I carry I'll use the flush mag for better concealment. Just like the real gun writers, I experienced no failures of any kind. No, I'm not demoting my Glocks to the practice squad. Just changing their positions a bit.

As an aside, Village Pawn won't be at our show this year. Mark did tell me he plans to stop by to visit a bit. He also told me they will donate a brick of .22 ammo to the club.

Those brothers are a class act.

Anyway, if you're in the market for a great carry gun at a very reasonable price I would suggest giving the XDs 4.0 serious consideration. But of course, That's Just My Opinion.

Happy Shooting Allen

__________________

News Letter August, 2014

IT’S DONE!!! There’s a new Sheriff in town, a new skipper and he has got some big cowboy boots to fill. Since the end of 2011 Wayne has done a job to be envied, thanks for getting this youngster called HAWKS moving in the right direction.

One comment heard at the voting was, “there is NO wrong choice” any one of the candidates could have fill the position they were being considered for. If you didn’t make the August 7^th meeting you missed a grand time and an opportunity to have your voice heard. Our turn-out was just under 50% of the membership showing up to vote. I hope we do better this coming November.

Retired Sheriff Paul Fletcher is our new leader and John Bowling was elected Vice President our new RSO is Ken Pool, and Wayne Scott will be hanging around as our new Information Officer. Congratulations to all the guys elected and a hearty “thank you” to those who didn’t, I know we will ALL get behind the newly elected slate and support them as we did the previous ones.

I wonder if the new guys know what they let themselves in for, we have a pistol and rifle tournament soon, a gun show early next month, a mammoth Cruise-In and if that ain’t fillin’ your plate the Banquet, our social prom is the end of next month.

On his way out our past Pres. Set up two standing committees, The Charity Committee and The HAWKS Planning Committee. The Charity Committee will be charged with investigating all request for all help and reporting it’s recommendations to the membership and the Planning Committee will be working with the Winnsboro Gun Club scheduling our shoots so as not to conflict with their schedule at the range, this committee is headed up by Ken Pool assisted by Ron Smith and John Bowling as Secretary. Also, on this committee are Scott Riddle, Bill Rogers, Dave Koch, Doug Grantham and Jim Butz. This committee will report to the Board of Directors.

The Charity Committee is still in the forming stage as one member has asked off the committee and one member is standing down due to health concerns. So far this committee consists of Ken Schwab, Richard Schoeberl and Dave Sanders, several more members will, probably, be added soon.

Minutes for August Business Meeting

Candidate Robbie Robertson opened the meeting with a welcome to all members, (no guests) and gave us a rundown on our guys and their loved ones who are hurting. Jimmy followed with the pledge and Mr. Cash offered the Invocation, this was followed by the recitation of Jeff Cooper’s rules of safe firearm handling.

James Morris and his Nominating Committee then passed out the ballots and the voting commenced. After voting the Committee retired to a quiet place and counted the ballots. Jim Butz and Bill Rogers then took the meeting and went over some of the scenarios employed at our TAC Shoots held each 2^nd and 4^th Thursday evenings. Jim said we were getting more WGC members, participating, than HAWKS, therefore if you like playing with guns like I do---SHOW UP!!! We have a heck-of-a-good time and don’t really shoot up that much ammo. You can use any firearm you wish, from a .22 LR to a bad ass .45 ACP, we are looking for fun and proficiency with your firearm.

There was no Treasurer’s Report as Dave was out of town, but most said they had received the report via email.

George Brown announced that the only update to the website was the link to the WGC website, which he is administering.

Ron Miranda offered to read the previous minutes from July but the membership preferred to waive the reading. He, then, explained that we needed to get the menu selections for the banquet in as soon as possible. The banquet is shaping up nicely and we will be ready as soon as we can assemble appetites.

Doug Grantham gave his report on the upcoming gun show and asked for volunteers to help erect the gun show signs.

Paul Fletcher was then called on to report on bulk ammo offerings. (The air conditioning was turned on at this point and my recorder was rendered useless, it miss everything from here on.)

Mel Mellenberger was given the opportunity to introduce an ideal the Denise Miranda and Ruben Purcell have been working on, which would create a food pantry for the shelter animals. He explained that the money raised by the garage sale is generally used for shots, medicine, spaying and neutering. There will be more information coming as the plan comes together.

The election results were announced as reported earlier in this newsletter, and the congratulations began.

For his final act as President, the by-laws empowered Wayne to create the two committees discussed earlier.

The meeting was adjourned and clean up began.

Just My Opinion

Prepping Makes Sense

I never considered myself a Prepper but I guess I've been one for years without realizing it. The email that Mel sent out a while back regarding prepping was worth a serious read. Civil unrest is a scary thing. I witnessed it in Africa. Also got caught up in the Newark riots in the 60's. Then again in the Compton riots in California. Hearing gun shots from rooftops and watching people set fires is a bit unsettling.

I've always been the kind to keep a full larder. Got that from Mom, I guess. She would have a large garden every year and the canning seemed to go on forever. We didn't eat fancy by any means but there was always plenty. Like most of our members, our folks went through the Great Depression and wasting anything of value was considered sinful.

Years ago I could see that the Old Ways were being forgotten by the younger folks. So, I made it a point to learn to garden, can, cook and make soap. Later on I learned to make fresh and smoked sausage and butcher my own meat. I never considered it Prepping, but I guess it was to some degree. Around the second year of Obama's first term I could see he had snowed the Majority and would surely win a second term. That's when I got serious about stocking up. And, not just food and water. Since he was out to take our guns, I got plenty. Ammo was becoming an issue, I got plenty. I stocked up on firewood. Easy where we live. I have several propane cookers and lots of propane to run them as well as charcoal grills. I have a generator hooked to the power lines. It won't run our main furnace and AC, but will handle most everything else. Of course, that is useless without gasoline, so I try to keep a decent supply on hand and the vehicles full just in case I need to siphon some out. But even with all that, it is only a temporary fix if the fecal hits the fan. Once the hoards leave the cities and start plundering the countryside, no one will be really safe. I hope that never happens but you never know.

In the situations I experienced the police were outnumbered and were overwhelmed for the most part. No 911 back then and even if there was you would never get a response. It's YOYO time, meaning You're On Your Own. All you can really do is hunker down and stay alert. If your partner can't shoot, better give some lessons. Just as important is developing a mindset to blow an intruder to Kingdom Come if necessary. Woe to the fool that would challenge my wife. She would cut him in half with her shotgun in a heartbeat, and probably cry later. Should trouble come knocking we have our stations set out and guns within easy reach. It is not that simple if you have youngsters coming and going, so you would have to develop some alternative.

I haven't gone so far as to buy gas masks or body armor but I do have the means to purify water. I do hope that all this prevention will be a waste of time and money. But, you never know and we feel better knowing we have at least attempted to be prepared.

But, of course, that is Just My Opinion. Allen

HAWKS’ August Birthdays

James Clark, Aug. 3^rd; Dave Koch, Aug. 10^th; Jimmy Miller, Aug. 18^th; Lee Moore, Aug.21^st; J.A. Newton, Aug.1^st; Dan O’Hara, Aug.6^th; Ken Pool, Aug. 3^rd; Boyd Proctor, Aug.19^th; Richard Schoeberl, Aug.22^nd; Harold Stone, Aug.27^th; Terry Thompson, Aug.3^rd; and A.C. Wilkins, Aug. 22^nd.

The HAWKS wish each and every one of you a very Happy Birthday and sincerely hope this is the best Birthday you have ever had or may have.

Next month we have scheduled Mr. Oscar Martinez for an encore presentation. Mr. Martinez is very familiar with the situation which is going on on our southern border, and has been in Law Enforcement most of his adult life.

The banquet will be right on top of us and if you plan to go you MUST be current in your dues and have made your menu selection as we will be placing our food commitments with Lori the next week.

I attended a planning meeting last night, Aug. 11^th, which included an NRA field representative and can let you know the first annual Friends of NRA banquet and auction is taking shape and moving ahead. Ray Hollingsworth is in charge and will need plenty of help and could possibly put Winnsboro on the East Texas Gun map. If you are a gun enthusiast, love to help kids in shooting sports, and want a possibility of snagging a great gun at a good price, think about this one. Ray intends to have a table at the fall gun show promoting this event.

Stay well, visit our website and see you in September.

Ron

____________________________________________

July Newsletter

Hey! Guess What? Thirty HAWKS showed up to participate in Winnsboro’s Fourth of July parade, which turned out to be a bit on the small side, both numbers of entrants and on lookers. But, Dennis Morey and his crew got first prize and second prize. How is that possible you might ask? The float or trailer that Morey, Jim Chiles, James Morris and Skinny Garner built took top honors. If that weren’t enough Dennis Bowman and his wife Diane along with their Yorkie, Sammy were judged separately and pulled down second in Morey’s golf cart which was green and red white and blue.

Now this is just a rumor, but I have it on good authority that first prize is 3 days and 7 nights in Disney World, and second is three weeks in Detroit. How lucky can you get?

Congratulations to all the HAWKS that participated along with several wives and or lovers. Thanks also to Brenda Morey and Kaci “the hugger” Morris for the shuttle service from the park to the parade start point. Many of the HAWKS gave escort on their two wheelers including what was reported a member of Hell’s Angles, the senior set. You’ll have to check out the pictures to verify the Hell’s Angles story.

Item of Interest

If any of you take Guns and Ammo magazine you may have seen this article in the latest issue --- it’s by Kyle Lamb U.S, Army retired and has to do with a visit to his local gun store. Many of our members believe if the caliber doesn’t begin with an “F” it’s not gonna protect you, while others believe any caliber is better that no caliber, at all. SMG. Lamb got into a discussion with an Army individual at his local gun store and the individual said he would only trust his life to a 1911 in 45ACP. Lamb said his favorite carry gun was what- ever he had, on him, at the time, in this case it was a Bersa .380 caliber. As it turned out the guy’s 45 was in his truck Lamb’s observation was, he would take a Bersa .380 over any 1911-.45 which was in the truck. Why obtain a Conceal Carry License and NOT carry your firearm on you? Other experts agree, why have a CHL and not be armed. If we were clairvoyant enough to know when you or a family member were going to be attacked you could holster up that day, but this is not the case at all. You never know when your firearm may save a life, just ask Ms. Hupp, the lady who lost her parents in the Killeen Luby’s shoot out. By the way, Lamb’s favorite carry gun, according to this article, is a Smith & Wesson M&P 9 mm. Shield, which could change every time he walks into his local gun store.

July Birthdays

Drew Beams, July 28^th.; Paul Bennett, July 31^st.; Roman Eble, July 10^th.; Gus Gustafson, July 17^th.; Clint Hopkins, July 7^th.; Johnny Kirby, July 3^rd.; Marion “Robbie” Robertson, July 10^th.; Doug Sager, July 1^st.;

Wow, a lot of Birthday cake is being made and enjoyed this month. HAWKS wants to wish each and everyone of you a very Happy Birthday and hope this birthday is or will be the very best, ever.

Pistol Tournament

Wednesday Morning 10:30 am. August 20, 2014 & Saturday 4:00 pm. August 23, 2014. You may shoot in either but not both unless its Rimfire one day and Big Bore the other.

Rules for 2014 Tournament

1. Board of Directors will set date of tournament.
2. All classification targets must be turned into RSO (1) one week before tournament.
3. IF YOU HAVE NOT QUALIFIED INTO ONE OF THESE CLASSES YOU WILL BE SHOOTING IN "A" CLASS.
4. Once your class is established, you will shoot in that class and you are only able to win or place in that classification. If you shoot over and above your established class in the tournament you will be reclassified into that class for the following year.
5. In the case of being class in one class in one event and in another class in another event the average of the two will establish the class in Class Over All Champion.
6. To establish your class, your score in 2013 (2013 score represents 2/3 of scores) plus 2 targets in each event average out will give you a Class that you will shoot in in the 2014 Tournament. If you did not shoot in the 2013 tournament 5 targets of 10 shots must be turned in to establish class. Note: you may go up a class but will not be able to class down until the next year. Unless special cases present to the Tournament Committee and they approve a reduction in Class.
7. To move down in class 10 targets must be turned in to show a reduction in score and you can only drop one level in classification (i.e. A to B, not A to C).
8. Awards will be given in each class 1^st, 2^nd, 3^rd place and a Class Over All Champ (combined average of RF & CF). There will be a HAWKs Gun Champion (Highest combined average of RF & CF regardless of Class)
9. Scoring will be done after Tournament (shoot) by team of judges and once recorded are final.
10. The Line must be broken before the Round (hole) can be scored in the higher bracket. Paper targets have been replaced by 65lb.card stock for accuracy.
11. Scoring will be based on 10 rounds of (Rim Fire, 22) and 10 rounds of (Center Fire)

• All Rim Fire Ammunition (No center primer) is one Division
• All Center Fire Ammunition (Has a center Primer) is other Division
• Two additional rounds will be shot at the Tie Breaker Target (Separate target below the Bull’s eye Target) then 10 round shot at bull’s eye on each target, to be scored in case of a tie for first place. The tiebreaker will not be counted unless there is a tie.

15. The target distance will be seven (7) yards.

• Targets will be a 10 ring with a perfect score of 100 possible.

Classifications are:

CLASSIFICATIONS: RF = RIM FIRE & CF = CENTER FIRE

RFA, A Class SHOOTERS FROM Scores range 91 to 100

CFA, A Class SHOOTERS FROM Scores range 91 to 100

RFB, B Class SHOOTERS FROM Scores range 81to 90

CFB, B Class SHOOTERS FROM Scores range 81 to 90

RFC, C Class SHOOTERS FROM Scores range 0 to 80

CFC, C Class SHOOTERS FROM Scores range 0 to 80

You may shoot in either event, Wednesday or Saturday, but not both unless you choose to shoot Rim Fire in one and Center Fire in the other. Please inform the RSO of your plans.

The morning event will start at approximately 10:00 AM and continue until everyone has shot. The Saturday event will start at 9:00 am and continue until everyone has shot.

1. Center Fire caliber is your call. Gun type is your call. Barrel length is your call.

The results of the morning shoot will be combined with the Saturday shoot to determine an overall winner per classification in each Division Rim Fire and Center Fire.

1. Should there be a tie after all tie breakers have been exhausted, the RSO will, after conferring with the tied shooters, determine when a shoot off will be held and what yardage will be used.
2. THE RSO WILL HAVE COMPLETE CHARGE OF THE SHOOT AND HIS DECISION WILL BE FINAL ON ALL DISPUTES.
3. Please observe all safety rules at all times, Any breaking of any Safety Rule will be automatic DISQUALIFICATION!
4. Ken Pool is the CRSO in charge of the shoot

Just My Opinion

New Gun Warranties

A while back a member asked my take on how effective new gun warranties really are.

It’s really an interesting question, for in my experience, they have been seldom needed. Yet, bad stuff happens and it pays to know what to expect.

If you go into any number of new car dealerships and ask to read their warranties you can bet that none will read the same or cover the same items for the same length of time.

Same goes with guns. Some are covered for life and some have significant restrictions.

I believe all major gun makers offer decent to excellent warranties. Still, you need to know the rules and memorize the do's and don'ts before shooting your new best friend. If you are a re-loader, better read the warranty. If you buy reloads, better read the warranty. If you just bought a thousand rounds of ammo from a guy selling surplus ammo from Egypt, better read the warranty.

You could not expect a car dealership to honor your warranty if you changed your own oil and used the wrong kind. Feeding your new gun the wrong ammo has the same effect. The rules can get sticky and that is why I strongly suggest buying your gun from a local dealer and going through the manual with him to make sure you don't screw up.

A local dealer can be a huge help if you have a legitimate problem. They can handle the shipping and make sure you are satisfied. They want you happy and be a return customer. Just like a car dealer. If they won't help you out, take your business elsewhere.

In all my years of shooting and all the guns I've bought, I've only had two issues. First glitch was with a Kel-Tec P3AT. I ran 200 rounds through it without a single problem. Then it started to jam or stovepipe about every 3rd round. I emailed the company and they got right back, telling me how to ship it. Round trip was less than 10 days. It was the same gun but it appeared that they replaced and upgraded almost all the guts. It shoots great and not a dime out of my pocket. Excellent customer service, but I never bought another Kel-Tec. They have that reputation. Sell the gun and fix it later. Hopefully that has changed for the better. Next up was a Ruger Ranch Rifle. It was their stainless version and I wanted to have a mount installed so that I could use the open sights as well as a scope. I gave it to a now relocated ex- HAWK and so-called gunsmith. It turned out to be a nightmare. The receiver is made out of space age metal and not meant to be drilled. Nothing held. I shipped the gun to Ruger along with a note of my sad tale. They responded that the gun was ruined. They offered to replace the gun at their cost as long as I surrendered my old gun to them. A done deal and I always will be grateful to Ruger. As for the so-called gunsmith, he still owes me $884.

Really, I have been very lucky. I have bought guns at shows and on-line as well as from established dealers. For the most part, if you buy a used gun you are on your own. If you buy it from a dealer, ask up front about his guarantee. Buy it any other way and you better know what you are doing. If in doubt, ask the seller if you can have it inspected by a gunsmith. Frankly, the best way is to take it out and shoot it. I always ask to do that if I'm interested in a used gun. I also make the offer to anyone thinking about buying one of mine. Sell someone a lemon and not make it right and your reputation goes right out the window. Life's too short for that.

The few minutes it takes to read the fine print before signing the check is time well spent and can help clear up any misunderstandings. But, of course, that is Just My Opinion.

Happy Shooting Allen

Minutes from July Business Meeting

Presidential Candidate Bert Edmondson opened the meeting by welcoming members, acknowledging guests, including Regan Mills, winner of one of our Scholarship checks, who gave us a bit of background on himself and thanked the members for their faith and support of him and his endeavor at the University of Arkansas, and recognizing our shut-ins. Jimmy led the pledge and Wayne was asked to give the Invocation, followed by Ken Pool leading us in the four rules of safe gun handling. Scott Riddle showed pictures of and expounded on the shortcomings of “Open Carry Texas”, a group of gun owners exercising their right to open carry long guns, shot guns and black powder guns.

John Bowling, candidate for V.P. then introduced our speaker for the evening, Mr. Izzy Mackey, former CIA worker and POW in Cambodia for over three years. After captivating us with all the atrocities performed on him he went on to relate the story of a young soldier who has been denied all VA benefits due to his missing two therapy sessions. Jimmy asked Mr. Mackey where the young soldier lived.

Dave asked for questions regarding the Treasurer’s report, no questions were asked. He then announced that 2015 dues were open starting now, and he would prefer payment be made by check for easier record keeping, Dave, also, indicated he would make every effort to attend the Wednesday breakfasts, between now and August, in order to collect dues. He will be out of town for the August meeting. He then announced the Poker Rally would be a different route and held the same day as the car show, October 11th. Al Andersen was named as Assistant Rally Master and Dave asked for about 8 volunteers to man or woman the check points.

George was called on to report that the Transfer of the Website from GoDaddy to Duncan Multi-Media is complete and if any problems are experienced please contact George Brown. Motion was made to for-go the reading of the June minutes and seconded by the audience (passed), George then reported on the Texas Law Shield seminar in Tyler, last month, which saw two hundred plus attendees and if you wish to sign up for this program see Wayne, Doug or Ron. The seminars are $5.00 for members and $10.00 for non-members and last about three hours. If you wish to fill out a new HAWKS’ membership form see Ron. If you purchase a shirt you receive a free car window decal while supplies last or you can purchase on for $3.00 which goes to the Scholarship fund. Banquet menus are now available and will be emailed in the next day or so, you will have until September 10^th. to return them to Ron.

Wayne announced the Gun Show will be September 6^th and 7^th and volunteers are welcome. To prevent from cluttering the HAWKS’ table at the gun show Wayne has purchased a table and will charge $5.00 per gun for private sales, any overage will be donated to the Scholarship fund.

James Morris gave a report on the nominating committee and updated the membership and explained how the voting would take place. He emphasized the importance of making the August meeting to vote as you must vote in person for it to be counted.

Dennis Morey gave us an update on the 4^th of July parade and in spite of the small turnout the crowd was in-to-it, 30 HAWKS participated. We handed out 5 party packs of Tootsie Rolls, 200 bottles of water and 57 small American Flags, we took 1^st place and 2^nd place for their participation.

Wayne announced the Texas Hunter Education Class of August 9^th with Don Hightower assisting.

Dave Koch announced he has been elected to represent the Texas State Rifle Association and opened for membership and he would see about a club membership.

We, still, encourage members to bring prospective members to coffee or our meeting to see if we have a good fit on both sides.

Wayne, then, introduced the subject of the HAWKS requiring U. S. citizenship to be a member, which John Bowling explained the progress and situation. Ron Smith went on to explain the options concerning a non-citizen and how it affects membership in HAWKS. Option one and two is to change or amend the by-laws, option three is to waive the requirement on a one time basis to include John Bowling which was entered as a motion by Ron Smith and seconded by the entire group (John, at this point, decided to leave the room) Vote was unanimous in favor.

Ken Pool announced time, date and rules of the upcoming Pistol Tournament scheduled for August 20^th and 23^rd. additional info will be emailed.

Jimmy Chiles asked for a vote to donate $500.00 to Izzy’s Wounded Warrior program, seconded and passed.

Next month instead of a planned program, Jim Butz and Scott Riddle will demonstrate some of the scenarios presented at TAC Shoot on Thursday evenings while the ballots are being counted. Regan Mills was thanked for attending the July meeting and acknowledged for being an outstanding recipient of one of our scholarship checks and an outstanding student.

The July meeting was adjourned.

_______________________________________________________________________________

June newsletter

Its hard to believe, but we have completed all three of the scheduled rimfir tournaments. And without incident, unless you wish to consider a group of great kids and darn good shooters. It is evident that parents have had a positive influence on these kids. Most important Ken Pool and his merry band of RSO helpers, coaches, score keepers and car parkers. Ken ran a wonderful tournament, all three times, without any accidents or injuries. We had ancient 9 shot revolvers, vintage single shot rifles and even a pink and black AR-15 and all performed without problems. If you haven’t been able to coach these kids you are really missing out on a great experience.

We are quickly moving towards a changing of the guard. In August we will be voting on Wayne and John’s successors. Over the next two months the candidates will be auditioning for your benefits. I would encourage all of us to make every effort to attend the upcoming business meetings so we can make informed decisions. In addition to the positions of president and vice president, the position of RSO and Information Officer will be changed. The offices of Secretary, Treasurer and Sgt. at Arms will remain intact until next year.

June Business Meeting Minutes

Candidate Paul Fletcher opened the meeting by welcoming guest and new members and followed with a listing of the members and wives who are on the mend. Doug Grantham led the group in the Pledge of Allegiance followed by Mr. Cash’s Invocation. Ken Pool led the room in the recitation of Coopers’ rules of gun safety.

Doug Grantham reported that the WPD were pleased with the way the HAWKS performed at the 5K run and announced that the Chamber of Commerce donated $700.00 to the HAWKS for their help and participation in the Spring Gun show. Paul, then asked Candidate Ron Smith to introduce our speaker. Ron read a short bio on Dennis Morey, who, after his introduction gave a stirring account of what is happening in Connecticut and their gun restrictions using to the tragedy of Sandy Hook and the very sick mind of the perpetrator. Dennis continued by demonstrating the idiocy of the Connecticut rulings by using his own rifles and handguns.

Treasurer Dave as if there were any questions regarding his monthly report---there was none. Secretary Ron followed Dave with a report on the results of the Animal Shelter’s garage sale which netted the shelter $5 ,500. He, then, promoted the new shirts that Mack Jordan had brought for show and tell and explained the new forms and procedure in ordering shirts. This was followed with a proposal of advertising in the upcoming Autumn Trails brochure of an announcement only, for $25.00 or a quarter page business card announcing our website, our purpose and an invitation for $130.00 which turned out to be just $65.00 due to our non-profit status. A motion was made to accept the second proposal by Joe Doe and seconded by John Doe, the motion was passed. Finally, Ron announced the proposal for our participation in Winnsboro’s Fourth of July parade with a commitment by 8 HAWKS. Dennis Morey, with the help from James Morris and Robbie Robertson to build the float (trailer) to be used.

Paul Fletcher followed Ron with a scholarship report. Over 56 applicants was whittled down to eight, then reduced to four. Each applicant received $1500 each. To increase the moneys available Paul contacted the Farmer’s Market to sell raffle tickets each Saturday while the market is going on. We need two or three individuals to man the table each Saturday---volunteers please. Contact Paul Fletcher if you can help.

Ken Pool was called on for his rimfire report, which was glowing. We had between 11 and 14 shooters each month. Ken mentioned an adjustment was needed when the kids and guns arrive at the range. He, Ron Smith and Dave Koch will be working on the adjustment before the next shoot season begins. Coach practice can take place during the upcoming pistol and rifle tournament.

Paul Fletcher continued with the Bulk Ammo report, which has been slow to get started, but, Paul Feels certain it will pick up as availability goes down and prices continue to go up. The cut-off order date for this quarter is Friday June 13^th. And you may mix and match but Paul MUST order a minimum of 2,000 rounds total. Contact him with the number of boxes per caliber you want, compute the price including tax at .0825 and allow up to $1.00 per box for pick-up. We have a lot of websites available to us but I find that they are almost always out of stock and the shipping is out of sight if you can get a quote. Paul said if we didn’t have enough to order 2,000 rounds this quarter we would try again next quarter.

James Morris was called on for a nominating report and announced that Sheriff Fletcher is a candidate for President. He said a very short bio would be on the ballot we received, for each candidate and that the ballot would be in writing, on Thursday August 3^rd. The by-laws state that no absentee voting or proxies will be counted. (One vote per office per member). Robbie Robertson has been added to the Presidential office.

George Brown was asked to update the members on the website, which he announced we would be changing our ISP from GoDaddy to Duncan Multi-Media at a slight reduction in cost but we will retain the website and the email address. There may be some challenges with a change over but they will be solvable.

Wayne summarized the BoD meeting and asked for a vote on the Autumn Trails ad proposal which James Morris moved for acceptance of the $130 ad, seconded by Paul Bennett and Dave Koch, motion passed with a unanimously.

John Bowling mentioned the for us to remember “D Day” where Yanks and Aussies stormed the beaches at Normandy seventy years ago.

Robbie Robertson moved that we put the decal and our name and Gary Garner seconded the motion, vote was unanimously in favor of spending $50 on the canopy. Robbie then suggested that we have another rimfire in the fall with the date to be determined.

Poker night has been scheduled for June 19^th at Miranda’s Man Cave anyone is welcome.

Meeting was adjourned.

Just My Opinion

My Pick for Home Self Defense

I've opined on this subject before but it is worth repeating. You just can't beat a tactical shotgun. Most any old shotgun will do, but the short barreled, open choked tacticals are just the ticket for close up work. They swing fast, point easily and hit like a ton of bricks. I guess you could say Jan and I have His and Her's tactical shotguns. They are not the pricey fancy looking things you see in many shooting magazines. They are rather homely but built like tanks and always dependable. What's not to love?

Both are 12 gauge pumps and accept 3" shells. My shell of choice is Federal Premium in 00# buck.

By day they sit in easy to grab areas by doors. At night they stand guard by each night stand.

We have patterned both guns to be sure they hit where we aim and keep the pattern in a chest wide area. This works out to be around 15 yards. That's 45 feet and will nearly span the distance within most homes. Closer is better for maximum effect

Make no mistake. They do kick! But in a crisis situation you won't feel a thing. I proved that point just a few days ago.

Jan and I had been outdoors, working in the yard and garden. After cleaning up, we went to the bar area which faces the front yard. We poured a wine and watched the lizards romp through the wisteria and the hummingbirds hit the feeders. It was early afternoon. All at once a guinea raced past the windows, not 10' from the house. In hot pursuit was a bobcat. Yeah, a bobcat right in the middle of the day. I tore out the back door, grabbing my shotgun as I went. I rounded the dog pen and the guinea had stopped. He was about 6' from me. I spotted the bobcat at the same time. In a split second the bobcat leaped on the guinea and sunk his teeth into the neck and head area. All the while looking right at me with his yellow eyes. Feathers were flying everywhere. Since the guinea had no chance I cut loose with the shotgun. The bobcat died with the guinea firmly clamped in its jaws.

It was a young male, weighing around 25 pounds and something over 4' long, stretched out. It appeared to be in perfect health, but a bit thin. I don't think he had perfected his hunting skills on wild animals and saw the guinea as an easy meal.

Maybe I could have dispatched him just as easily with a handgun or rifle, but I doubt it. With a shotgun the outcome is almost certain. And nope, I didn't feel a thing but I did see a slight bruise on my shoulder the next day.

When things get up close and personal, I'll take a shotgun every time. But then.....that's Just my Opinion.

Happy Shooting Allen

HAWKS’ Birthdays

Jimmy Chiles, Jun. 15^th; Steven Cross, Jun. 16^th; Hank Hayes, Jun. 29^th; Michael Jaynes, Jun. 9^th; Chuck Knox, Jun. 1^st; T.R. Mills, Jun.22^nd; Wayne Scott, Jun. 23^rd; Robb Tubbs, Jun.30^th; Ken Watts, Jun. 17^th.

The HAWKS want to extend to all of you, a very very Happy Birthday and hope this has been or will be the best Birthday, ever.

Our next big event will be the Pistol Tournament which will happen in August on Wednesday the 20^th and Saturday the 23^rd. If you shot last year you are qualified, if you did not shoot last year or have NOT qualified you do not have a class and will have to shoot from Class A, against the best shooters. You may qualify at any time just have a witness and turn in your 10 rounds per target, target to Ken Pool at least a week prior to the tournament. You must qualify in both, RIMFIRE and CENTER FIRE, if you plan to shoot both. You may shoot on Wednesday or Saturday but not both, unless it’s RIMFIRE in one and CENTER FIRE in the other.

MORE INFORMATION WILL BE COMING…

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________

May Newsletter; winter has finally come to an end---HOORAW!!!

We have completed another successful Rimfire even with the scare that we might not have enough coaches. There were no incidents in spite of a naughty shell and three of the shooters split $110.00. We still have one final Rimfire event to go, on May 31^st.

The nominating committee is hard at work putting together a slate of candidates for the upcoming elections and the scholarship committee has completed their task finding four students deserving of our assistance.

Minutes for May meeting

Attendance for the May meeting was 37

V.P. John opened the meeting by welcoming all the members and acknowledging our members and their spouses, who are convalescing from surgeries and illnesses. Jimmy led us in the pledge and Mr. James Cash provided the Invocation. Rounding out our opening ceremonies, Ken Pool and Scott Riddle led the group in the necessitation of Jeff Coopers’ four rules of gun safety. Scott continued on with a brief discussion of holster safety.

Before continuing with our planned program, Corporal Glore of the WPD addressed the VIPS program which is being revived to accommodate the 5K run, this month, and up coming events and training.

Danny Dorsey introduced his friend and neighbor, Carry Littlejohn with N.E.T.C.A.C. a parent education group at the Johnston Unit, helping inmates to readjust to society and their children after serving their sentences.

Treasurer Dave asked if anyone had questions regarding the current financial report sent to the members, not having any, the meeting was given to Ron for his report on the May Garage sale and started a signup sheet for trucks and trailers for Monday the 12^th to move “stuff” to the Civic Center, discussed the shirt order system, reminded the members about the June seminar presented by the Texas Law Shield folks and finished with an announcement about Dennis Morey’s plan to build a float and enter it into the Winnsboro 4^th of July parade.

John Bowling spoke on behalf of the Scholarship Committee and reported that the committee had selected four finalists to receive $1,500.00 each if they continue to qualify. The winners are Jonah Hagan from Mineola, Tiffany Gambrel from Winnsboro, Raygan Mills from Winnsboro and Cynthia Shelton from Harmony. Congratulations to all of these fine people for what they have done and what the will do with their lives, from the HAWKS.

President Wayne spoke on the recent Storm Spotter Class in which many HAWKS to a part in and addressed a possibility of a refresher CHL course for those of us who would like to bone up and make sure we are still proficient.

James Morris spoke on the progress of the Nominating Committee and introduced the candidates that were in attendance. He was followed by Ray Hollingsworth, who has been working to host a “Friends of the NRA event and banquet here in Winnsboro. This event will NOT be sponsored by, either the Winnsboro Gun Club or the HAWKS. Cost is expected to be $35.00 per person or $1,100.00per table which will accommodate eight people and the cost will be tax deductible with the provided forms. More details will be forth coming.

Doug Grantham was not in attendance to give an RSO report, but Ken Pool announced that he has an RSO class scheduled at Bodacious Barbque coming up very soon. Paul Fletcher was unable to attend to give a report on the bulk ammo purchase but it is progressing nicely.

Before closing the meeting Wayne reminded us of the upcoming WGC annual meeting, Wednesday evening May 7^th. Ron has confirmed the Winnsboro Civic Center for the HAWKS’ banquet on September 20^th and one and all were invited to witness the Law Enforcement graduation at NTCC on Saturday.

The meeting was adjourned.

HAWKS celebrating Birthdays this month:

Our unofficial Patriarch, James Cash, May 3^rd.; Ray Hollingsworth, May 2^nd.; Ed Hoying, May 21^st.; Johnny Wetzel Jr., May 2^nd.; Wade Powell, May 22^nd. The HAWKS sincerely wish each and everyone a very Happy Birthday and hope this has been or will be the best Birthday ever.

Just My Opinion

Coming Full Circle

In this case, we are talking about actually shooting the 145 year old Vetterli rifle that Bill Rogers gave me at the last Christmas party. For those that have followed along you will know that I sent it off for the bolt to be converted to center fire vs rimfire. Had to, as no reliable or affordable rimfire for these rifles exist anymore. From start to finish it took 4 months to get it all together. I felt comfortable with the bolt conversion but not with the ammo. That said, my bride of 52 years and I loaded up the utility cart (April 4th) and headed down to our humble range. I placed the rifle in my NRA rifle rest and strapped it down to the bench. I placed a tough cord to the trigger and had my bride back away around 20 yards behind an Oak tree, trailing the cord along. Once in place we put on our ear protectors and I gave it a yank. Bang, it goes! The recoil seemed modest and nothing flew apart. That is a good thing.

Now comes the evaluation. Does the case eject as expected? Yep! Examine the case for signs of excess pressure. Any problems? Nope!

Examine the gun's receiver for damage. Any? Nope! Well, alrighty then! Its my turn! Off comes the holding cord and up goes a target. Jan scuttles back to the safety of the oak tree and counts bandaids. The target is set at a mere 25 yards. A decent way to start. I sight on the bull and pull the trigger. The shot was right on in elevation and was in the 9 ring. I was pumped! Next shot was in the 10 ring. We got a shooter, here! I will bet you a dollar to a donut that old gun had not fired a shot since around 1890.

Whoever did the sporterizing knew what they were doing. I would have no qualms shooting a black bear, moose or deer at modest ranges. Say, 100 yards or so. It shoots a heavy 310 grain flat nosed lead bullet that would smash bone and raise all sorts of havoc with internal organs. I hope to try it on a big hog one of these days.

Thank you Bill for allowing me the pleasure of researching and actually firing this old war horse. It was the biggest challenge I've ever had with an old miliary rifle.

Happy Shooting Allen

Comments

Fellows, we are quickly approaching a new era for the HAWKS Gun Club of East Texas, as for the first time in our history we will change leadership. We will change that leadership voluntarily. These will be exciting times with fresh direction, fresh ideas, fresh leadership. The four positions that will change over had the very best in people we could ask for and they did their jobs and did them well and we were in our comfort zone with them, but the time has come for us to thank them for the job they did and encourage the new leaders to do their best, as we know they will.

It’s too bad our country, our state and our community can’t seem to function as well as the HAWKS. Our comradery and closeness is extraordinary, to say the least. I know we will get behind our upcoming leaders and support them as we have the current officers.

I would encourage all of us to attend our few meetings left under the current administration, so we can get a feel for and get to know, even better, the HAWKS that will be taking over.

If I remember my by-laws 101 class, the by-laws prohibit voting by proxy, so, if you want “your” guy in there it will be best to come and vote, but first, you have to get to know just who “your guy” is.

Keep in mind the more of you who show up, the more cookies Dave has to pay for and I love watching Dave squirm.

Ron

_______________________________________________________________

March/April Newsletter, Gun Show Edition

Well, the Spring Gun show is history and Saturday was very busy while Sunday was moderate. Roger, my son, and I only saw a little buying going on and that was in the small conceal and carry types such as the Sig 938 and 238, 357 and 38 wheel guns, and lots of ammo. A lot of husbands or boyfriends were shopping for small C&C guns for their ladies, especially semi’s that are easy to rack.

I think the HAWKS had a banner show where raffle tickets are concerned, Chuck Knox, George Brown, James Morris, Terry Thompson, Dan O’Hara and Ken Watts handled ticket sales in super salesman, Gary Garner’s absence. We missed you Gary, and you, Hardy and Allen Gold, it just didn’t seem right without you guys. We are indebted to Mr. Dan and Sandra Strickland for their donation of two hundred dollar donation to our Scholarship Fund.

It was nice to see some of the new members in attendance, Edwin, Tex, Michael, Art, Rob, James and Wade, if I’ve missed anyone, I apologize, it’s because I’m not familiar with y’all or just didn’t see you. Senior moment(s)!!!

According to the paper and Lord Grantham some 1400 happy smiling souls passed through the turn styles and my son, who has a computer like mind, had the following observations; He heard many times “Oh, I’m just looking”, and he said “why pay eight dollars to just look when the internet is free”, and several said, they had bought ammo at a great price and never figured the eight dollars into the price of the box.

But then we all know that not everyone “came to play”, but it would be nice if a few would have bought a little more. I guess the anti-gunners need to make another scene to stir the buying bug.

Rimfire, we were a bit concerned because the weather leading up to Rimfire Saturday---sucked. But, come Saturday morning that all changed, it was cool but warmed up as the day went on. Then the kids started to show, we had shooters, 10 of them, from six years old, Dr. Petty’s son Colin, to a 74 year young gentleman, Mr. Gene Shelton. We had a great time but more than that it was a safe time. 600 rounds were fired and no one got hurt, and no one shot a Range Officer. The winners were Abi Nichols 13, Ben Swift 10, Shad Griner 13 and Gene Shelton 74 all won their class in pistols. The rifle winners were Kiley Hood 8, Ben Saint 10, Abi Nichols 13, Shad Griner 13 and Gene Shelton 74. The real winners were the HAWKS, WGC and Lady Hawks. We had a great turn out of coaches and support people, thank you all, very much, and looking forward to working together next month.

Rifle Tournament Results, in Rimfire Class A was Steve Hebert (WGC), Ray Hollingsworth (HWKS), and John Bowling (HWKS). In Class B, Scott Riddle (HWKS) followed by Wayne Scott (HWKS) and Bill Rodgers (HWKS). Centerfire Small Caliber Class A was Jim Butz followed by Steve Hebert (WGC), Class B, was Bill Rodgers followed by Scott Riddle (HWKS) and Ray Hollingsworth (HWKS) and Class C was Dennis Morey (HWKS), James Morris (HWKS). Centerfire Large Caliber Class B, was Scott Riddle, Class C, Jim Butz(HWKS), Ray Hollingsworth (HWKS) and Dennis Morey (HWKS). Ken Pool and Ron Smith came into Starry Starry Night buttoning their shirts with an anxious Cheryl and Nancy on their arms.

Just My Opinion

Defining the Actions of Handguns

Some time ago, a member asked that I write an article describing the various actions of handguns and explaining the differences. To experienced shooters this is a slam-dunk, but to those new to the sport it can get a bit confusing. There are some oddball actions out there, but I won't bother with them. We will stick to the stuff we usually see in revolvers and auto-loaders. Let's start with revolvers.

The first one we will talk about is the Single Action (SA). Anyone that has ever watched an old Western movie knows what they look like and how they work. A model of simplicity and reliability. You pull back the hammer with your thumb until it locks. The cylinder turns and aligns the cartridge with the barrel. Pull the trigger and it goes bang. Cock the hammer again and the process starts all over. They are still very popular and lots of fun to shoot. Go to any Cowboy shoot and you will see loads of them. I would say the most popular model ever made was the Colt SAA, (Single Action Army). They are extremely collectable and will put a sizeable dent in your wallet. Colt has just reintroduced that classic and I hear it starts at around 1500 bucks. A real old timer in good shape will make that seem like the bargain of the year.

Next up is the Double Action revolver (DA). What that means is that you can shoot it just like a Single Action or if your in a hurry you can just pull the trigger and the hammer will fall back and release and the gun will shoot. For most of us, far quicker than the Single Action mode. The top pros will make a lie out of that statement but for most of us it works that way.

The Double Action Only revolver (DAO) was devised as a carry gun. Small, fairly light weight, with no external hammer and tiny and near useless sights. In most cases the edges are smooth and designed not to snag on clothing. It is meant to come out cleanly and pop the Bad Guy at very close range. It ain't a target gun. Yet, the newest ones out there are very accurate. Double Action anything got a bad rap for a heavy trigger pull. The lesser the quality the gun the harder the pull, usually. And, a good gunsmith can do wonders. I've had some real duds over the years but if you stick with the major brands like Colt, Smith & Wesson and Ruger I'm sure you will find one to please. I love my Ruger LCR. They took a DAO to a whole new level.

Let's talk auto loader pistols for a bit. They use the same descriptions and add a few more. But, they don't work at all like revolvers.

The most famous Single Action auto loader has to be the famous Model 1911 in .45 ACP. Once you rack the slide a cartridge is loaded in the chamber. You now have the option of pulling the trigger or setting a manual safety. If you start shooting, the gun will automatically kick out the empty case and load a fresh round. After the gun is empty the slide will remain open, telling you it is time to reload. Every shot feels the same and the pull is quite light out of a quality gun.

Next up is the Double Action/Single Action (DA/SA) auto-loader. The first shot has a much heavier trigger pull than the SA only. For many, it allows the person to carry the gun with no safety engaged. Once you crank off the first shot it reverts to SA. On some guns there is a de-cocker, which is a cool option. Say you don't empty the clip. Without a de-cocker you have to decide if you want to engage the manual safety, drop the magazine and rack out the loaded round or, Heaven Forbid, drop the hammer while trying to control it with your thumb and fingers. Sure, we've all done that, but its risky and should be avoided.

Some auto-loaders are Double Action Only. Most common are Striker Fired pistols. Glock comes to mind as the inventor of such a pistol but Heckler and Koch, the famous German firm came out with the first one in 1970. It was a military arm and some were made full auto. They never received any press on the side of the pond, so they are rarely heard of over here. Glock did indeed build a better mousetrap and the rest is history. Fully 65% of all military and law enforcement units issue Glocks. And yes, that is world wide. There is really nothing weird about a striker fired design. As mentioned before, there is no exposed hammer. Glock has no manual safety. Some, like Smith and Wesson are coming out with them. I see no point in it as I consider Glocks quite safe as they are. I don't consider them a gun for a rookie because you must have it drilled into your brain to never put your finger on the trigger until ready to shoot. That holds true with any gun, but especially guns like Glock.

The safety in a Glock is really a set of three. As you pull the trigger the safeties release one at a time until the gun fires. The striker is nothing more than a long spring loaded firing pin. After firing, the striker is set at about half tension. Pulling the trigger again brings the tension to 100% and the gun goes bang! The new S&W's put the striker at full tension after each shot. Don't ask me which is better. I can do just fine with either setup. It is unfair to compare them with a heavy triggered double action revolver. It is not at all hard to operate and get used to using. It boils down to what you are comfortable with as a carry gun. Some will have nothing less than a fine 1911 style gun. I certainly have no problem with that logic. Do what makes you happy. I have both and carry both. But usually I grab a Glock as I head out the door. I'm used to them and like the idea I don't have to think about fumbling for a manual safety in a crisis. But, of course, that's Just My Opinion.

On a side note, I still have not received the ammo for the Vetterli rifle. I emailed him today (April 3) and got a reply that he has been swamped and "hopes" to get it out next week.

I think he was "swamped" before he got out of bed. I never saw the like. Anyway, the saga continues.

Happy Shooting Allen

April Business Meeting

Secretary Ron Miranda opened the meeting by welcoming members, which numbered 47 and 3 guests, and expressed concern for the continued recovery of our members and their families (see prayer page).

Jimmy Chiles led the pledge, Wayne Scott gave the Invocation, and Ken Pool led the recitation of Jeff Coopers rules of safe gun handeling.

Colonel William Rodgers (ret) was introduced as our speaker for the evening and did a sterling job on presenting the 1986 shoot-out between FBI agents and two Florida bank robbers, which led to the attitude and training changes of the FBI from that point on.

There were no questions for Dave Sanders, Treasurer regarding the report. Wayne acknowledged the donation of $200.00 by Mr. and Mrs. Dan Strictland, designated specifically for the 2014 scholarship fund. Thank you very very much folks. Wayne announced he had ordered 3 dozen caps (1 dox. Regular weight and 2 doz. Summer weight). Reading of the previous minutes were waived due to time constraints, but Ron continued by distributing two sets of posters announcing the actual Animal Shelter Garage Sale and the need for “Stuff” to sell at the sale. He then announced the National Weather Service would be conducting SKYWARN Storm Spotter class in Winnsboro on April 15^th at City Hall starting time is 10am. NO CHARGE!!! Bill Parker will conduct the training. Ron finalized by announcing that he had forms to order the shirts with.

Ken Schwab introduced the Scholarship committee with Paul Fletcher as the committee chairman. Paul explained how the process of selection and how the money would be allocated. Ken Pool made a motion that we have 5 awards at $1,000 each, discussion followed. Ken Pool reiterated that the amount be raised to $5000 by a motion and seconded by Wayne Ruyle. Discussion was interrupted by Paul Fletcher’s offer to donate a commerative S & W Revolver, the membership agreed to accept, with many thanks to Paul, his donation of the revolver. Dave, then amended the original motion to read a maximum of $6,000 be allocated for scholarships, if needed, James Morris seconded the amendment. Vote was unanimous. Vote was taken on the original motion which pass by unanimous vote. Ken added that trade schools be included.

Doug Grantham followed with the Gun Show report which amounted to a big thank you to all the volunteers who aided in the operation of the gun show. He then asked Steve Taylor was asked to draw for the raffle winner, which was Keven Hamm of Winnsboro.

Bulk Ammo was the next order of business, and Paul Fletcher would handle the orders and pick up of the ammo. The minimum order must be 2000 rounds in assorted calibers. (No 22s available)

Report from Nominating Committee by James Morris announced the office of President nominations were Paul Fletcher (who refused to be nominated) and Bert Edmondson, for VP John Bowling and Ron Smith were nominated and for RSO, Scott Riddle and Ken Pool were nominated and for Information Officer Wayne Scott was nominated. Nominations are still open, please contact any of the Nomination Committee.

Bob Williams is taking individual pictures of members so we can get to know each other.

George Brown had no additional information for the members.

Dennis Morey announced that his party for all members was scheduled for the 19^th of April and also said he would be going to the range to pick up trash and asked for volunteers.

Ray Hollingsworth was asked to comment on the Friends of the NRA Banquet and will meet with the local NRA representative on the 21^st of this month, at Richies restaurant, to discuss the possibility of grants and the banquet, itself.

Meeting was abruptly closed due to an approaching storm.

Note: Allen Gold, author of Just My Opinion, wanted to thank Dennis Morey, Jimmy Chiles and James Morris for their help in moving a mammoth gun safe, from Mt. Pleasant, into his home. HAWKS helping HAWKS…

We are getting closer and closer to the Annual Garage Sale to help the Winnsboro Animal Shelter with expenses. Ron and Cheryl Smith and Al and Glenna Andersen along with Ruben Purcell and Denise Miranda continue to monitor the “Stuff” coming into the storage areas. If you have large items such as appliances you wish to donate and can hold on to them until the week of the sale, just deliver them to the Civic Center on Monday the 12^th, Tuesday the 13^th or Wednesday the 14^th or call City Hall or the Animal Shelter for pick up.

HAWKS Born in the month of April

Paul Fletcher, Apr. 14^th; George “Tony” Fry, Apr. 9^th; Jimmy “Gunslinger” Hasslinger, Apr. 20; Brett Miller, Apr. 18^th; Don Nowell, Apr. 11^th; Allen Tuell, Apr.17^th; Rodney Walls, Apr. 23^rd.

If your birthday has passed then we sincerely hope it was the best Birthday ever and if it is yet to come, we hope it will be the best you ever had and could hope for. Happy Birthday one and all from the HAWKS.

Please don’t forget Rimfire at the end of the month on April, 26^th start time about 9 am. This should be the biggest one, yet as the word is getting out and the weather should be stellar. If you have coached in the past, never coached or would like to coach, believe me we need you. It ain’t that hard and you will have a great time and will feel satisfied in helping a youngster get into shooting the right way. Remember, they are our future.

The Dennis and Brenda Morey “BASH” is on for the 19^th at their farm on CR 4760 off highway 312 South of Winnsboro, you can bring your favorite dish or desert and byob, Dennis will supply dogs and burgers, games and fun. You might throw a couple of chairs in the back of your fliver, too.

Upcoming Speakers are: May; Gary Littlejohn, June; Dennis Morey on the crazy new gun laws in Conn. and July; Izzy Mackey former POW. Information and bios will be on the website calendar page.

Have a great Spring season

Ron

Secretary for HAWKS

____________________________________________________

March, 2014 Newsletter

__________________________________________________________________

March – in like a lion, out like a lion, I hope not…

NEWSLETTER

It has been one hell-of-a-long winter! We managed to muster one mild Thursday evening for a Tac Shoot, which saw about 10 guys and no gals show up, several were WGC guys and the balance were HAWKS. There were two separate scenarios, both involving five shots each and not a lot of movin’ around.

The Lady Hawks had an election and Sandra Riddle was elected President and Debby Jared was elected Vice President, congratulations to both of you gals, great choices, ladies.

We had our March business meeting and 39 smiling faces showed up, in our new facilities, His House Ministries on the Airport grounds, including guests Chip Horton, Judge Paul Beard, Wade Powell, Roman Eble and Chase Glover with T.A.B.C. Wade and Roman became members after the meeting and we thank Robbie Robertson and Paul Fletcher for recommending these welcome additions to our group which now numbers 95.

I know it’s a long time coming but Spring is right around the corner---which corner I’m not sure. HAWKS are becoming more active with the weather improving, guns are coming out, getting cleaned, oiled and sighted in, etc. Our first rimfire is the end of this month, following the first of two gun shows and the Winnsboro’s Farmers Market will be starting up in April (downtown). One of our newer members, Dennis Morey is monitoring the volatile Connecticut anti-gun grab laws as they unfold and will be reporting on this situation at our June meeting. Coming up will be our own Bill Rogers former military officer, FBI agent and JAG member in April, Gary Littlejohn, friend of Danny Dorsey, in May and then Dennis Morey in June.

We have a busy spring…

March Business Meeting Minutes

John Milligan, VP opened the meeting with the introduction of Guests, and our guest speaker, Chase Glover from the TABC and the recognition of members and family members on the shut-in list (visit the Prayer page on the website for the listing). Jimmy Chiles followed with the leading of the pledge, followed by our Patriarch, James Cash, who provided the Invocation. This was followed by Ken Pool leading us in the recitation of the four rules of Gun Safety. Scott Riddle interjected with a short dissertation on the correct ammunition in the right firearm.

Pres. Wayne followed by introducing Chase Glover with the TABC, who discussed where and were not to carry when alcohol is involved, discussed possible upcoming legislation permitting open carry in Texas and relaxing some of the “where not to carry” regulations. Officer Glover covered the duties that his office is responsible for.

Treas. Dave asked for any questions regarding the sent Treasurer’s Report, there were none. He did state that any shirt orders were to be turned to him.

George was asked about relaying information on to individuals and suggested to expedite any information, go to the roster and email directly to that individual, if it is something to be “blasted out to everyone, then send it to George and he will send to the members.

Secy. Ron reminded the members that we were getting closer to the Garage Sale to benefit the Winnsboro Animal Shelter and that the second storage unit was almost filled. He then said the Emergency Call list would be resent as soon as it was up dated then went over the procedure on how the call list was to work. Reading of the previous minutes was waived.

Ken Pool was asked to comment on the upcoming Rimfire event and the Rifle Tournament and said we would have a practice on March 19^th after breakfast and hold the Rifle qualifying afterward. The finals of the Rifle Tournament would follow the Rimfire tournament, Saturday March, 29^th. He went on to explain the classifications of the Rifle Tournament.

In Ken’s absence Wayne said there would be no report, however, asked if anyone would step up and relieve Ken as the Chair on the Charities Committee. The Nominating Committee had no nominations at this time but asked to have a quick meeting following the Business Meeting.

In RSO Doug’s absence, Jimmy Chiles reported that the vendor sales were doing well and the sign up still needed a few commitments for clean-up after the show. We will be working four hour shifts instead of eight and there is a lot of flexibility in the time spent.

The V.I.P.S. program is stalled due to the schedules of the police and their responsibilities and limited time to work with us.

Nothing has been produced on the Nominating Committee thus far, but James Morris suggested they meet directly after our business meeting.

Wayne suggested that we make a special effort to sell the remaining tickets for the raffle gun, then Dave suggested we make April 2^nd. the deadline for turning tickets and money for the raffle. Dave has designated that all tickets and money must be turned in by the end of breakfast on April 2^nd. The gun package will be at the Gun Show and that will be our best effort for selling tickets.

Ron begged that all members contact him with calls or emails to make sure all those who need to be on the prayer list be put on the prayer list.

Wayne recognized all military, law enforcement, fire fighters and first responders, then asked for adjournment.

HAWKS’ Birthdays in March

Danny Fisher, March 16^th; “Flash” Gordon Glass, March 5^th; Tim Gutschlag,

March 24^th; Mark Huston, March 17^th; Dennis Morey, March, 26^th; Art Walden,

March 1^st; The HAWKS want to wish each and every one of you the best Birthday you have ever or will ever have.

Just My Opinion

Good morning, all. It was my intention weeks ago to write the final report on the Vetterli rifle. I still think it will happen, but it will probably be a couple of weeks off. The reason?

Right after Christmas I contacted a guy in Wisconsin who makes obsolete rounds and supplies parts. Since buying rimfire ammo for the Vetterli is nearly impossible the alternative is to convert the bolt by removing the two rim strikers, drilling a hole in the center of the bolt and install a firing pin. A fairly simple process for a machinist. To make the ammo, a custom die has to be made. After that, they take .348 Win. brass and reshape it using the die to create a shell to fit the Vetterli. Of course this guy already had the stuff. When I talked to him he said the turn-a-round was two weeks or less. Sweet! So I send him a check to change the bolt and make me 40 rounds of ammo. He cashed the check on Jan. 2nd. I wait....and wait. After 3 weeks I contact him and he assures me the order will soon be sent. Then...nothing. No response to emails, either. Those who know me well knows my fuse length is somewhat short, so off go more emails of a kind not found on a Hallmark greeting card. I was convinced I had been scammed and was about to get the law and BATF involved. Then, I get a call yesterday. He was him. He said he shipped the bolt and ammo by UPS Friday...but...there was a problem. He had screwed up the setting on his powder dump and instead of loading 21 grains of 2400 powder it poured out only 3 or 4 grains. He asked that I return the ammo and he will redo it. This is just standard fare from this guy.

He seems to be honest but an unorganized flake. He apologized for the delay, blaming the flu, bad weather, order overload. Yada, yada, yada! I asked about his weather and he said he can see his John Deere tractor out in the yard and the snow is up to the top of the steering wheel. I think he means well but if I had him over for dinner I think I would provide a wooden bowl.

Anyway, the saga continues. I expect the bolt around Tuesday, then ship the ammo back to be done over. Lordy! Once I get the ammo I will dress in a suit of armor and touch it off. If I survive that, I will submit the article. It has been an adventure for sure.

I would have been sick if I never got the bolt back. I can get others to make ammo but the bolt and all other parts have matching serial numbers. Can't be replaced.

Take Care Allen

22 RIMFIRE FAMILY FUN SHOOT
FUN FOR ALL AGES rifles & pistols

Saturdays

March 29th, April 26th, May 31st

Begins 9 am

Winnsboro Gun Club Range CR 4403

Youth under 17 MUST be accompanied by an adult

.22 cal only bring your own ammo + $5.00 range fee

Eye & Ear protection required

firearms will be on loan on site

Call Ken Pool 903.975.5410

_______________________________________________________________________________

February, 2014 Newsletter

2014 newsletter-Month of change

Votes were taken, by-laws were changed and place of gathering was changed and our very image (logo) was changed--- all for the better.

Our numbers were a bit smaller than last month due to a Masonic gathering and continued illness by some of our members. Thirty six attended to hear Bert Edmondson discuss the ramifications to one’s life when the trigger is pulled. His discussion prompted many questions and some ongoing research, “it ain’t over, yet. Mission accomplished! Thought has been provoked.

Our speaker list for the future includes Chase Glover of the TABC in March, our own Bill Rogers retired everything in April and Gary Littlejohn in June, other possibles are Kurt Kelly, active Game Warden and our own Police Chief, Andy Chester.

We bore witness to new logos for our shirts and I for one am pumped, big time, with the improvement. I had two shirts and a vest done in it. It distances us a little more from the bad ole’ days.

We welcomed two new members so far in the month of February, Art Walden, former minister and longtime friend to HAWKS and Michael Morrison, who is on the teaching staff at Baylor University in Waco, Texas, school of law.

We, now, must gear up for “Rimfire” and the “Spring Gun Show” not to mention the involvement and training for the VIPS program which is moving ahead. Being a member of HAWKS has never been more exciting---Here we go.

Ron

Secretary for HAWKS

Minutes of the February meeting

Vice President, John Milligan gaveled the meeting to order and recognized the health concerns of many of our members and their wives, please refer to the prayer page on the website for current list. Sgt. at Arms Jimmy Chiles then, led the members in the Pledge and President Wayne Scott led the Invocation followed by the reciting of the four rules of safe gun safety, led by Scott Riddle and Ken Pool.

John Milligan, then introduced Bert Edmondson as our speaker, who proceeded to pass around to the members, a prepared outline of his presentation, entitled “Rules of Engagement (Use of Force Law)”. If you did not get a copy or would like a copy please call or email Bert Edmondson, his numbers are on the current roster. John, finally, had to call a halt to all the Q & A as we were running well over the allotted time.

Dave Sanders, Treasurer was introduced and asked if anyone had any questions concerning the emailed treasurer’s report, there was none.

George Brown, Webmaster was asked to summarize the new look of the website and explain the new format. The website, while still in the tweeking stage is cleaner, simpler to use and easier to navigate.

Ron Miranda, Secretary followed with a vote to forgo the reading of the previous month’s minutes, followed with a reminder about the Animal Shelter Garage Sale taking place on May 15, 16 & 17 with Ron Smith, Al Andersen, Denise Miranda, Ruben Pursell and Ron Miranda with keys to the storage areas. Finally, Ron showed the two available rosters, one for general use the other to serve as an emergency call list to alert members of an impending disaster, cancellations, weather alerts or when called up by the WPD. These lists will be finalized and emailed to each member.

Ken Pool, Rimfire Chairman alerted one and all that the shoot is right around the corner in spite of the current weather conditions. He said we will have to “catch up” with practice when we can get out and pull a trigger.

Ken Schwab, Charities Chairman said his committee was in a low spot with very little activity at this point. A question was posed regarding the follow-up on monies donated and Ken said every donation was tracked, as far as they could be.

Wayne filled in for Doug Grantham and announced that we had purchased an additional 500 raffle tickets for the gun show and that Jimmy Chiles would be taking names soon for duties at the show. He, then, brought the members up to date on the VIPS program and said we had 24 volunteers with two squads with Bert heading up one and Doug heading the other. We are now waiting on the WPD to set the whole thing in motion. We are ready to order vests and assign duties, the first being on March 5^th with a general clean up or clean out of the upstairs storage over City Hall, dumpsters and shredders will be standing by. We are planning on help from the Johnston Unit and several able bodied HAWKS.

Two tabled motions were reintroduced from last month, the first being the selection of a new shirt logo and samples were shown. After some discussion it was decided, by majority vote, that the members were free to select any shirt of their choosing and J&M Designs would attach the selected logo, the patch would continue to be an option or no logo at all, just HAWKS and member’s name would be applied to the front of the shirt. Several shirts were approved and the price list will be on the website. I spoke with Mack Jordan and he said he could apply the new logo to any fabric for a $5.00 charge, therefore if you have a blue polo shirt with a plain back, the new logo can be applied.

The second, would require a 2/3 majority vote as changing the by-laws would be necessary. The motion was to change the Compliance Officer and that officers’ duties to be called the Public Relations Officer whose duties to include communicating to the public, through the media to show the mission and creed of the HAWKS Gun Club of East Texas and may serve as the liaison between the HAWKS and the WPD on the VIPS program. The vote on this amendment was unanimously in favor.

Wayne announced that he and Ron had inspected the “His House Ministries” fellowship room as a possible new meeting place for our business meetings as we are quickly approaching the maximum of 50 which is the most allowable by the fire code of the city, in our existing meeting room. The motion was made and seconded and the vote was unanimous in approval, to move starting in March. He then announced that the Cruise-In had been moved to October 11^th and that the Rally would be run at 7 am. on the same day, with the proceeds being split as before, just without all the searing heat and the concession sales, in order to aid the downtown merchants and restaurants.

Only one member of the Nominating Committee was present, Lee Moore, and no report was available.

It must be noted that no members will be credited with making motions and seconding those motions as a malfunction occurred in the recording device being used on that meeting. 35 members attended along with one guest, Mr. Dillon Wassom of Winnsboro. March meeting will be March 6^th at the fellowship hall of “HIS HOUSE MINISTRIES”, 616 AIRPORT RD on the left across from the Johnston Unit, the HAWKS yard sign will be out front.

Just My Opinion

The Vetterli Rifle

First, a little background. Johann-Friedrich Vetterli was a Swiss engineer who was charged with designing a new rifle for the Swiss "National Guard". They have always been Neutral but due to their outstanding commitment to defending their homeland, it has always been unwise to try to step on their toes. That said, the Swiss government was aware that their old rifles needed a huge upgrade. The time was around 1867. Huge advancements were being made worldwide in regard to weaponry. Something new was always just around the corner. The rimfire cartridge was patented in 1845 and was a major step forward for ammo. Although cap and ball muzzle loaders were still being used worldwide, its days were numbered. A fairly successful cartridge was developed by the Germans and it became known as the Dreyse needle gun. The firing pin was sharp, like a needle, and it punctured the back of a paper case filled with black powder. The lead bullet was shaped like an acorn. On the back of the bullet was a common percussion cap facing backwards to the firing pin. The pin struck the primer which ignited the powder and the "acorn" flew out the barrel. Cool, huh?

Anyway, Vetterli was determined to make a better mouse trap. He knew that the center fire cartridge had been patented in 1866 but the concept was so new that hardly any cartridges were available. That did not matter to him as he had already decided to use a tried and true .41 rimfire cartridge. This was an excellent decision by him as this round was quite potent. It had a muzzle velocity of 1425fps. The lead bullet weighed 334 gr..

That calculates to just over 1500 ft/lbs of energy. More than a .44 Mag shot out of a rifle. More than the famous 44-40 round and 3 times the energy of most .45 ACP loads. For its time, it was quite a thumper.

Vetterli had high regard for the Henry rifle that came out in around 1860 and the famous model 1866 Winchester. Both were lever action and both shot rimfire cartridges. However, he and his bosses felt that the lever action was too complicated and expensive to build. But, he did copy the side loading system and the spring loaded tube that held the rounds under the barrel. Basically, pure Winchester. Now the problem was how to get the round up to the barrel and come to battery. He liked the bolt action design of the Dreyse needle gun, so he used that platform. He designed the lift method to raise the cartridge up and into the barrel. Now, he had a rifle capable of firing 12 rounds before reloading. It was simply brilliant and when the rifle was adopted as the Swiss standard in 1869 there was nothing in the world that could compete with it as a military issue rifle.

Most of you know that Bill Rogers gave me a Vetterli rifle that belonged to his Dad. He never fired it and it sat in his closet for at least 50 years. One might think it had rusted away. Not hardly! It is in very good condition and the barrel is in excellent shape. I would not hesitate to fire it. But, since it came with just one round, I may have to wait a bit. When I saw the rifle for the first time at the Christmas party I was awestruck at its condition but noticed things that seemed out of place. I just couldn't put my finger on it. Too excited, I guess. Anyway, once home the research continued. And, as Paul Harvey used to say...Now, for the rest of the story.

I pulled up websites that had pictures and descriptions of every Vetterli model. There were many. None came close to fitting my rifle. What's going on? I read and looked until I was blue in the face. And then....and then I read that magic paragraph. The final piece of the puzzle. Now I understood what was going on.

After the Vetterli rifle was replaced by the Schmidt-Rubin in around 1890 the rifles were sold as military surplus. They were shipped to America by the thousands. They were very inexpensive to buy at that time but they didn't sell all that well. The reason was that they were so long. I mean....really long! Many had 33" barrels and the whole rifle was over 51". Americans had gotten used to much shorter hunting rifles and they just weren't selling. The importer was in a pickle. What must he do to get rid of these things? Well, "Sporterize" them, of course! And, so he did. He chopped several inches off the barrel. Removed around half of the fore stock. Tossed the now useless cleaning rod and made repairs as necessary. In the case of my rifle, the rear stock had been replaced with a wood that was not walnut and the butt plate is made of a composite material. Not metal, as was the original. The front sight had been raised to lower the impact of the bullet at short hunting distances. I had to do the same thing with my Carcano saddle gun. It shot so high it missed the backing material at 25 yds.

The gun itself was all original. Meaning the barrel, receiver and bolt all has the same serial number. As best I can determine, it is a model 1869/71. That model had some major upgrades to the model 1869. They beefed up the barrel and action and as a result made it much stronger. It certainly is a heavy duty weapon!

Do I regret that this rifle was sporterized? Not at all! This is all about history. Sporterizing these rifles is part of that history. Should I decide to hunt with it, it will be short enough not to get all tangled up in the brush. Of course, I need more than one bullet or be labeled a Barney Fife!

I'm thrilled to have this old warrior and so grateful to Bill for his generosity. I'm thinking that Bill is really Santa Claus. Of course, that is Just My Opinion!

Happy Shooting Allen

Explanation of Emergency Call List

How is it supposed to work?

First, the squad leader who is first on the list in each section, Grantham, Edmondson, Butz, Mellenberger, Bennett and Riddle are charged with calling everyone in their group or squad. The second man in line, Chiles (squad one) and Scott in (squad two) calls the next man in line, which would be Thompson (one) and Bowman in (two) and so on down the line. This means everyone in line will receive two phone calls with the exception of the first and second man in line in each squad.

Should the next man in line is NOT available or cannot be contacted leave a message or a call back number and go to the next man. If you are called to duty of some kind and cannot respond or comply, tell the person calling you that you are unavailable and to go on to the next person in line.

The ROSTER is NOT a call list, but can be used as a directory of phone numbers and email addresses and should not be used as the Emergency Call List. You will have two lists if you choose.

HAWKS BORN IN FEBRUARY

Sammy Bell, Feb. 26^th; Jim Ledbetter, Feb. 6^th; (New Member), Michael Morrison, Feb 9^th; Darin Penry, Feb. 8^th; and Bob Williams, 4^th. The HAWKS wish each and every one of you the very best you may have had or will have. Happy Birthdays one and all.

CIVIL IMMUNITY

I, Dennis Morey, with the help of a lot of folks will address the above subject.

First, the information you will see and read was researched thru government, legislatures, news organizations and other websites. I had emails and phone conversations with individuals directly and indirectly involved with the subject matter.

TEXAS CASTLE DOCTRINE LAW

SENATE BILL 378 (S.B. 378)

Law went into effect on September 1, 2007

HISTORY

State Senator Jeff Wentworth (R-San Antonio) co-authored the S.B. 378 which was passed unanimously by the senate.

Note: Lines thru words is amendment changes to the bill.

Section 4, Section 83.001 is in an easier to read format. Look for it after the bill.

Now, let us read the S.B. 378.

1

1.      View shared post
	AN ACT
	relating to the use of force or deadly force in defense of a person.
	BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF TEXAS:
	SECTION 1. Section 9.01, Penal Code, is amended by adding
	Subdivisions (4) and (5) to read as follows:
	(4) "Habitation" has the meaning assigned by Section
	30.01.
	(5) "Vehicle" has the meaning assigned by Section
	30.01.
	SECTION 2. Section 9.31, Penal Code, is amended by amending
	Subsection (a) and adding Subsections (e) and (f) to read as
	follows:
	(a) Except as provided in Subsection (b), a person is
	justified in using force against another when and to the degree the
	actor [he] reasonably believes the force is immediately necessary
	to protect the actor [himself] against the other's use or attempted
	use of unlawful force. The actor's belief that the force was
	immediately necessary as described by this subsection is presumed
	to be reasonable if the actor:
	(1) knew or had reason to believe that the person
	against whom the force was used:
	(A) unlawfully and with force entered, or was
	attempting to enter unlawfully and with force, the actor's occupied
	habitation, vehicle, or place of business or employment;
	(B) unlawfully and with force removed, or was
	attempting to remove unlawfully and with force, the actor from the
	actor's habitation, vehicle, or place of business or employment; or
	(C) was committing or attempting to commit
	aggravated kidnapping, murder, sexual assault, aggravated sexual
	assault, robbery, or aggravated robbery;
	(2) did not provoke the person against whom the force
	was used; and
	(3) was not otherwise engaged in criminal activity,
	other than a Class C misdemeanor that is a violation of a law or
	ordinance regulating traffic at the time the force was used.
	(e) A person who has a right to be present at the location
	where the force is used, who has not provoked the person against
	whom the force is used, and who is not engaged in criminal activity
	at the time the force is used is not required to retreat before
	using force as described by this section.
	(f) For purposes of Subsection (a), in determining whether
	an actor described by Subsection (e) reasonably believed that the
	use of force was necessary, a finder of fact may not consider
	whether the actor failed to retreat.
	SECTION 3. Section 9.32, Penal Code, is amended to read as
	follows:
	Sec. 9.32. DEADLY FORCE IN DEFENSE OF PERSON. (a) A person
	is justified in using deadly force against another:
	(1) if the actor [he] would be justified in using force
	against the other under Section 9.31; and
	(2) [if a reasonable person in the actor's situation
	would not have retreated; and
	[(3)] when and to the degree the actor [he] reasonably
	believes the deadly force is immediately necessary:
	(A) to protect the actor [himself] against the
	other's use or attempted use of unlawful deadly force; or
	(B) to prevent the other's imminent commission of
	aggravated kidnapping, murder, sexual assault, aggravated sexual
	assault, robbery, or aggravated robbery.
	(b) The actor's belief under Subsection (a)(2) that the
	deadly force was immediately necessary as described by that
	subdivision is presumed to be reasonable if the actor:
	(1) knew or had reason to believe that the person
	against whom the deadly force was used:
	(A) unlawfully and with force entered, or was
	attempting to enter unlawfully and with force, the actor's occupied
	habitation, vehicle, or place of business or employment;
	(B) unlawfully and with force removed, or was
	attempting to remove unlawfully and with force, the actor from the
	actor's habitation, vehicle, or place of business or employment; or
	(C) was committing or attempting to commit an
	offense described by Subsection (a)(2)(B);
	(2) did not provoke the person against whom the force
	was used; and
	(3) was not otherwise engaged in criminal activity,
	other than a Class C misdemeanor that is a violation of a law or
	ordinance regulating traffic at the time the force was used
	[requirement imposed by Subsection (a)(2) does not apply by Fast Free Converter"' type="#_x0000_t75" href="http://www.legis.state.tx.us/tlodocs/80R/billtext/html/SB00378F.htm" o:button="t" alt="http://cdncache1-a.akamaihd.net/items/it/img/arrow-10x10.png" o:spid="_x0000_i1028"> to an actor
	who uses force against a person who is at the time of the use of
	force committing an offense of unlawful entry in the habitation of
	the actor].
	(c) A person who has a right to be present at the location
	where the deadly force is used, who has not provoked the person
	against whom the deadly force is used, and who is not engaged in
	criminal activity at the time the deadly force is used is not
	required to retreat before using deadly force as described by this
	section.
	(d) For purposes of Subsection (a)(2), in determining
	whether an actor described by Subsection (c) reasonably believed
	that the use of deadly force was necessary, a finder of fact may not
	consider whether the actor failed to retreat.
	SECTION 4. Section 83.001, Civil Practice and Remedies
	Code, is amended to read as follows:
	Sec. 83.001. CIVIL IMMUNITY [AFFIRMATIVE DEFENSE]. A [It
	is an affirmative defense to a civil action for damages for personal
	injury or death that the] defendant who uses force or[, at the time
	the cause of action arose, was justified in using] deadly force that
	is justified under Chapter 9 [Section 9.32], Penal Code, is immune
	from civil liability for personal injury or death that results from
	the defendant's [against a person who at the time of the] use of
	force or deadly force, as applicable [was committing an offense of
	unlawful entry in the habitation of the defendant].
	SECTION 5. (a) Sections 9.31 and 9.32, Penal Code, as
	amended by this Act, apply by Fast Free Converter"' type="#_x0000_t75" href="http://www.legis.state.tx.us/tlodocs/80R/billtext/html/SB00378F.htm" o:button="t" alt="http://cdncache1-a.akamaihd.net/items/it/img/arrow-10x10.png" o:spid="_x0000_i1027"> only to an offense committed on or after
	the effective date of this Act. An offense committed before the
	effective date of this Act is covered by the law in effect when the
	offense was committed, and the former law is continued in effect for
	this purpose. For the purposes of this subsection, an offense is
	committed before the effective date of this Act if any element of
	the offense occurs before the effective date.
	(b) Section 83.001, Civil Practice and Remedies Code, as
	amended by this Act, applies only to a cause of action that accrues
	on or after the effective date of this Act. An action that accrued
	before the effective date of this Act is governed by the law in
	effect at the time the action accrued, and that law is continued in
	effect for that purpose.
	SECTION 6. This Act takes effect September 1, 2007.
	______________________________	______________________________
	President of the Senate	Speaker of the House
	I hereby certify that S.B. No. 378 passed the Senate on
	March 13, 2007, by the following vote: Yeas 30, Nays 0.
	______________________________
	Secretary of the Senate
	I hereby certify that S.B. No. 378 passed the House on
	March 20, 2007, by the following vote: Yeas 133, Nays 13, one
	present not voting.
	______________________________
	Chief Clerk of the House
	Approved:
	______________________________
	Date
	______________________________
	Governor

SECTION 4. Section 83.001, Civil Practice and Remedies

Code, is amended to read as follows: Sec. 83.001. CIVIL IMMUNITY. A defendant who uses force or deadly force that is justified under Chapter 9, Penal Code, is immune

from civil liability for personal injury or death that results from the defendant’s

use of force or deadly force, as applicable.

IMMUNITY BY LEGAL DEFINITION:

Exemption from normal legal duties, penalties, or liabilities, granted to a special group of people.

Exemption from any natural or usual liability.

HISTORY

When S.B. 378 was voted on, the bill had no opposition from the senate. So, they went back and amended the bill making S.B. 378 one of the strongest (Iron Clad) Castle Doctrine’s in the nation.

THE VOTE COUNT

Senate	Yeas 30	Nays 0	03-13-2007
House One present not voting	Yeas 133	Nays 13	03-20-2007

Governor Rick Perry signed the bill into law on 03/27/2007

The law took effect on September 1, 2007

Websites:

http://governor.state.tx.us/news/press-release/2265/

Gov. Perry Signs Law Allowing Texans to Protect Themselves

SB 378 Permits Texans to Use Deadly Force in Self Defense

Tuesday, March 27, 2007 • Press Release

AUSTIN – Gov. Rick Perry today signed into law Senate Bill 378, extending Texans’ rights to use deadly force for means of self-defense, without retreat, in their home, vehicle or workplace. The law takes effect Sept. 1, 2007.

“The right to defend oneself from an imminent act of harm should not only be clearly defined in Texas law, but is intuitive to human nature,” said Gov. Perry. “Today, I am proud to sign the Castle Law which allows Texans to not only protect themselves from criminals, but to receive the protection of state law when circumstances dictate that they use deadly force.

“I thank Senator Jeff Wentworth, Representative Joe Driver and the Texas Legislature for their dedication to ensuring Texans’ rights to self-defense.”

In 1995, the Texas Legislature created an exception to a 1973 statute, which required a person to retreat in the face of a criminal attack. The exception allowed a person to use force without retreat when an intruder unlawfully entered their home. Senate Bill 378 extends a person’s right to stand their ground beyond the home to vehicles and workplaces, allowing the reasonable use of deadly force when an intruder is:

• Committing certain violent crimes, such as murder or sexual assault, or is attempting to commit such crimes;
• Unlawfully trying to enter a protected place; or
• Unlawfully trying to remove a person from a protected place.

The law also provides civil immunity for a person who lawfully uses deadly force in the above circumstances. The use of deadly force is not lawful when it is used to provoke or if a crime other than a Class C misdemeanor is committed by the victim.

For more information about SB 378, visit http://www.capitol.state.tx.us/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=80R&Bill=SB378.

Texas' ‘Castle Doctrine' law protects our citizens

By State Sen. Jeff Wentworth : April 24, 2012

http://www.mysanantonio.com/community/northeast/news/article/Texas-Castle-Doctrine-law-protects-our-3507040.php

Page 1 of 1

Since the shooting death of teen-ager Trayvon Martin in Florida, gun laws have been the subject of heated national debate.

Texas has a "Castle Doctrine" law, Senate Bill 378, which I wrote and the Texas Legislature passed in 2007. Twenty-seven of my fellow Texas state senators signed on as co-authors of the bill.

The "Castle Doctrine" comes from the common law principle that people's homes are their castles, and they have the right to defend themselves from criminal intruders.

The Texas law presumes that the use of force is reasonable and necessary when someone is unlawfully and with force entering or attempting to enter your occupied home, car, or place of business, or when someone is committing or trying to commit a crime against you. But Texas law, like Florida's, states that if a person has a right to be present at a location where force is used, has not provoked the person against whom the force is used, and is not engaged in criminal activity at the time the force is used, is not required to retreat before using force to protect themselves.

This means that if we are standing in our front yard, a mall, a grocery store, or any place we have a right to be legally, we are not required by law to retreat but may defend ourselves if attacked.

Our law clarifies that people are entitled to the presumption of reasonable use of force to protect themselves.

This law was needed because many Texans believed that they already had the right to use force in these situations. My bill clarified that right and shifted the burden of proof under the law to favor the intended victim instead of the criminal intruder or attacker.

Texans needed to know that the law is on their side when they respond with force to an attack. Police may still investigate, and prosecutors may still bring charges against a homeowner, driver, or business owner if the facts surrounding a self-defense case are in question.

Under the old Texas law, we had a duty to attempt to retreat first if we were attacked. Under our current "Castle Doctrine" law, we may certainly retreat if we choose to do so, but there is no longer a requirement to do so.

Finally, Texas law offers anyone who uses force authorized by law some additional protection from civil lawsuits that could be filed by injured criminal attackers or their families.

The law provides the crime victim immunity from civil liability from lawsuits brought by the intruder or attacker for personal injury or death that results from the lawful use of force.

Our state law affirms the rights of law-abiding Texans and puts the law on their side when they respond with force to an attack.

State Sen. Jeff Wentworth (R-San Antonio) represents portion of the Metrocom in District 25. He can be reached at: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., or by calling 826-7800.

Traditionally, if you felt your life was threatened, you could use deadly force to protect yourself, except if you could get away safely where nobody got hurt, then you were required to do that," Sandra Thompson, a professor at the University of Houston Law Center, told the newspaper. "Even if somebody is just stealing from your front yard, and they are not threatening anybody, (and) there's no threat of being hurt at all, you can kill them, if it's reasonably necessary protecting your property.”

INTERESTING FACTS AND DATA

A review of FBI data by the Houston Chronicle found that the citizen shootings most often happen after dark and involve a male shooting a handgun during a home invasion. The shooter is most often a minority, as is the person killed, according to the analysis.

Texas law, however, goes further than other states in allowing deadly force not only to protect property, but also to stop rape, arson, burglary, robbery, theft at night and criminal mischief at night, the Chronicle reports.

A grand jury in Texas' Lavaca County declined to indict the father of a 5-year-old girl who found a man molesting her behind a barn in Shiner and beat him to death, determining he was within his right to use deadly force.

24-year-old Benito Pantoja was shot and killed with a .357 Colt for $20.29 stolen from a tip jar of a Houston taco truck. Texas law always has allowed deadly force against intruders and thieves to protect lives and property, but where it once required a duty to try to retreat if possible when facing imminent danger, it no longer does.

Texas State Lawmaker Opposing Deadly Force Bill Shoots Would-Be Thief

Published July 09, 2007

Associated Press

HOUSTON – A state lawmaker who opposed a bill giving Texans stronger right to defend themselves with deadly force pulled a gun and shot a man he says was trying to steal copper wiring from a construction site, police said Monday.

Rep. Borris Miles told police he was fixing a leak on the second floor of the Houston house he's building Sunday night when he heard a noise downstairs and saw two men trying to steal the copper. After Miles confronted the pair, one of the men threw a pocketknife at him, Houston Police spokesman Victor Senties.

Miles, a former law enforcement officer, shot the man in the left leg, police said. The wounded suspect was being treated at a Houston hospital. Police were trying to identify the other suspect.

Charges of aggravated robbery are pending against the wounded suspect, Senties said.

Police said Miles, who is in his freshman term, is licensed to carry a concealed weapon. No charges have been filed against Miles, Senties said.

Miles, a Democrat, voted against a bill that gives Texans stronger legal right to defend themselves with deadly force in their homes, vehicles, and workplaces. The so-called "castle doctrine," passed by the Legislature this year, states that a person has no duty to retreat from an intruder before using deadly force. The law goes into effect Sept. 1.

TEXAS CONCEALED HANDGUN LAWS

Selected Statues Pamphlet

Two separate statues:

Page 58 Statue 9.06. Civil Remedies Unaffected. In other words, if you use no justifiable deadly force, you can be sued.

Many Homeowners insurance policies will cover legal and liability compensation.

Page 64 Statue 83.001. Civil Immunity Justifiable Deadly Force. Immune from civil liability (you can not be sued.)

HOPEFULLY, WE NEVER HAVE TO USE DEADLY FORCE!

_______________________________________________________________________________

January, 2014 Newsletter

It’s January 9, 2014 and ain’t this new year flyin’ by?

Since we didn’t have a meeting in December we had no minutes to report and with no minutes we had no Newsletter, and with no Newsletter we couldn’t wish the December babies a Happy Birthday---So, here goes…

The HAWKS want to wish each of you a belated Happy Birthday.

Dennis Bowman, Dec. 14^th; Don Brown, Dec. 25^th; Clay Doan, Dec. 17^th; Bert Edmondson, Dec. 29^th; Gary Garner, Dec. 8^th; Dave Sanders, Dec. 14^th. And…

For the January HAWKS as well, Happy Birthday.

John Bowling, Jan. 5^th; Jim Doonan, Jan. 13^th; Ken Harrison, Jan.20^th; James Hollowell, Jan. 10^th; John Milligan, Jan. 10^th; James Morris, Jan. 17^th; Ken Pregeant, Jan. 2^nd; Scott Riddle, Jan. 6^th;

We sincerely hope all of you have or had a wonderful birthday.

Well, it is 2014 and in case you have forgotten we have another chance to get rid of the gun grabbers, don’t let it pass you by. Get involved and vote!!!

I am including something I put together long before 2014 came crashing through the door. Some of the items came up during the January meeting and a couple will be discussed in detail at the February meeting. I would love to hear from you regarding the following, individually or on all the paragraphs.

Things to accomplish in 2014

SET UP EMERGENCY CALL LIST FOR HAWKS TO CONTACT EACH OTHER DURING AN EMERGENCY

FINALIZE AND IMPLIMENT THE VIPS PROGRAM IN PROGRESS AS OF 1/14/2014

GET THE PURCHASED DOG RUNS CONSTRUCTED COMPLETED SATISFACTORLY

INCREASE THE NUMBER OF SCHOLARSHIPS AND INCLUDE TRADE SCHOOLS, IN NUMBER AND AMOUNTS DISCUSSED AT JANUARY MEETING

FINALIZE RIFLE TOURNAMENT TO EQUAL PISTOL TOURNAMENT IN FUN AND PARTICIPATION

DETERMINE WHICH CHARITIES AND AMOUNTS WE INTEND TO FUND IN 2014

DETERMINE WHICH EVENTS WE WISH TO INVOLVE THE CLUB IN AND TO WHAT EXTENT

CREATE A REPUTABLE NOMINATING COMMITTEE TO SELECT CANDIDATES FOR FUTURE OFFICE IN THE PROCESS OF SELECTING NOMINATING COMMITTEE

CONSIDER HOSTING AN EAST TEXAS SEMINAR WITH TEXAS LAW SHIELD

CREATE A GENERIC BUSINESS CARD WITH WEB ADDRESS, MEETING TIME AND PLACE AND E-MAIL ADDRESS ON FRONT, WITH THE HAWKS’ CREED ON THE BACK

MAKE A SPECIAL EFFORT, INCLUDING JOINT MEETINGS, TO INVOLVE LADY HAWKS AND WGC IN RIMFIRE

EXPLORE THE POSSIBILITY OF ASSISTING THE LADY HAWKS IN INCREASING THEIR MEMBERSHIP AND INVOLVEMENT IN CIVIC AND CLUB ACTIVITIES IT WAS BRIEFLY DISCUSSED AT THE JANUARY MEETING TO INCLUDE LADY HAWKS AS NON-VOTING GUESTS TO OUR BUSINESS MEETINGS

JANUARY BUSINESS MEETING MINUTES

We had 47 in attendance, a new record, this included guests and speaker ( I know all the cookies got eaten) congratulations to us all for bringing new prospects and showing up with an interest.

The meeting was opened in normal fashion with by announcing and showing concern for our shut-ins, (details on the prayer page) welcoming guests, saying the pledge and having our newly appointed Chaplain and unofficial patriarch, Mr. James Cash deliver the Invocation.

Dave explained why we would no longer be discussing and reporting on our financial position and since it is sent to each member, we feel it if there are any questions please ask at this time

Al Andersen suggested that the club purchase a digital recorder for the purpose of recording the minutes of each meeting, which turned into a motion to purchase the recorder by Mr. Andersen, seconded by Chuck Knox, the vote was unanimous in favor.

Ron announced there were no minutes from last months meeting because there was no meeting, and announced the Roster is ready to send out and would be on Friday. He, then explained that instead of recopying and resending every time we took in a new member we would just add them to the bottom of page 3 until they could be worked into the alphabetical rotation. Ron asked if the members would consider hosting a Texas Law Shield dinner or seminar and to please get back to him with your feelings or suggestions. The dinner hosts 75 people and the seminar hosts 150, if there is interest I will contact Lawyer Donchecz.

The garage sale is now accepting items, except clothing, for the sale coming up May 15,16 and 17, and if you have any items you wish to drop off, Al Andersen, Ron Smith, Denise Miranda and I have keys to the storage area. If you drop items off please place it as far back in the storage space as possible.

Ruben Purcell then made a presentation on the Animal Shelter and answered questions pertaining to becoming a “no kill shelter” and what it would take to expand or rebuild the existing shelter and then thanked the group for supplying the four new runs which have been delivered, constructed and are being used.

Wayne Ruyle was called on to detail a trip to see the Movie “Lone Survivor” which came out today. The trip was to get all the veterans, who could, assemble and trek to Longview for lunch and the movie, the trip is being sponsored by Wayne’s brother.

Wayne Scott announced that the VIPS program was on the docket for the City Council meeting on the 14^th and all HAWKS who would like to lend their support can attend the meeting at 5:30 pm. on Tuesday. It will be held in Council Chambers behind the City offices.

Ken Schwab was next up with the Charities report. A late applicant requested help Grace Fellowship Church to stock and update their “Mission Kitchen” which is used to go to disasters and feed those who have lost everything in tornados, floods or earthquakes etc. James Morris moved that we send the church $1,000 Paul Fletcher seconded the motion, the vote passed- all for and 1 against with 2 abstained. There are plans to expand the range of eligibility to schools farther away from Winnsboro, trade schools and students that are only Juniors and Seniors already in college. The emphasis was placed on filling out the registration correctly as no applicant will be considered that does not adhere to the requirements. Wayne continued to remind us that the raffle was the main source of funding for the scholarships. He went over the raffle gun, bullets, holster and display box that were all donated by friends of HAWKS and HAWKS members.

Doug Grantham was asked to give us a quick tutorial on selling raffle tickets and on the upcoming Gun Show. Doug was followed by a demonstration by Scott Riddle on how to correctly determine if a firearm is empty or not, and how easy it is to assume the worst and proceed to shoot a finger off.

In John Milligan’s absence Wayne introduced our featured speaker, Warden Sharon Johnson of the Johnston substance abuse facility, which was extremely informative as it covered under what circumstances “Clients” can be used for labor purposes.

At this point the recording device that was being used to transcribe the proceedings malfunctioned and no more notes were recorded

Ron Miranda informed the members that a plaque and information was received by the club as a unit, which involved discounts show a member wish to use them, from the Second Amendment Foundation, which we joined in November. A complete briefing on the material received will be given to the membership before being returned to Jimmy Doonan for safe keeping.

Just My Opinion

Another "Top-of -the-Line" Defensive Round to Consider

Over the last few months I have been pushing the new ammo offerings from the major ammo makers. Today, the actual guns are at the "State-of-the-Art" in regard to design and quality control. But, you can have a million dollar gun and it will only perform as good as the ammo you feed it. And, since you don't have to cough up a million bucks to get a good handgun, it makes sense to me to choose your carry gun wisely and feed it the best diet you can.

So much has changed so fast it is hard to keep up. Figuring out what is true and what is hype is not easy, either. Polymer tipped bullets from the major manufacturers is not hype. They are the real deal. Now, there is a new kid on the block from a company who's quality is without doubt. That is none other than those famous Barnes bullet makers. They have been famous for rifle bullets for years. Now, they have jumped aboard the handgun bandwagon and came out with a doozie. It is called the Barnes TAC-XPD.

A all copper bullet that should make any bad guy quiver in his boots. If you take Guns and Ammo's Handgun magazine, check out the Feb./Mar. 2014 issue. The article is written by one of my favorites, Patrick Sweeney. No, I don't know why they label them that that way when it is still in Dec. 2013. Anyway, if you have it, go to page 16 and give it a read.

What makes this bullet special is that it is all copper. Not lead in a copper jacket. What makes that special? Believe it or not, copper will expand at a lower velocity than a lead/copper mix. And, you lose nothing in regard to penetration. It has more drag going out the barrel than the average bullet and that does increase chamber pressure at bit. Not to a dangerous level, however. But enough to put some extra starch in its shorts and that accounts for the good penetration. Once it expands, the results are awesome! The spent round looks like bent ceiling fan blades backed by a solid copper base. Talk about disrupting a bad guy's innerds! Ouch!!

It expands well beyond the diameter of the unfired bullet and would rip through tissue like a food processor. What's not to love?

This round reminds me of the old Winchester Black Talon, except that it is all copper and so much better. The Black Talon got a bad rap for being so nasty but also a bad rep for not expanding all the time (like only 80% of the time). Frankly, it was only nasty when it expanded. Otherwise, it performed just like a FMJ. Not so cool.

Barnes offers this round in four calibers. .380, 9mm, .40s&w and .45acp.

The .45 excites me most because it no longer takes a velocity of 1000fps or more to cause expansion. And, I don't have to give up hardly any bullet weight. Note that most of the polymer tipped bullets (as good as they are) do show a significant downsizing in bullet weight to achieve a bullet speed that will result in complete expansion. I will never cozy up to the .380 as a main carry gun no matter what the load, but in all the other calibers I would never feel undergunned.

Yep, the times they are achangin! And in this case, for the better. But then...That's Just My Opinion.

Happy Shooting Allen

Some Final Notes

It was announced that Mr. James Cash would be taking over the duties of Club Chaplin after the loss of Tom Howard and Don Brown, both of whom have moved from the Winnsboro area. Also, it was announced that George Brown would be taking the duties of Webmaster (cape and all) to relieve Ron Miranda of some of his duties. Give George a chance to settle in, but if you have questions regarding the Website he will be the man in charge.

We would like to think you peruse the website often in its entirety, however, please check the Calendar Page and Prayer Page often to stay informed as to what’s going on and when it is going on and to keep in mind those who are close to us and their state of health.

Jeff Cooper’s Rules of Gun Safety

Rule 1. All Guns are always loaded

Rule 2. Never let the muzzle cover anything you are not willing to destroy

Rule 3. Keep your finger off the trigger until your sights are on the target

Rule 4. Be sure of your target and what’s behind it

As a Reminder

I ran across this in my files while looking for heaven knows what and thought it might be good to remind you all about---Ammunition Sources.

Ammunition Sources

Precisiondelta.com

MidwayUSA

Lucky Gunner

Ammunition To Go

Cabela’s

Underwood Ammo

Buffalo Bore Ammo

Double Tap Ammunition

The Ammo Bank

Military Surplus Ammunition To Go

Ammoalley (one word)

Sportsman’s Guide

Gunbroker.com

GunsAmerica.com

DON’T FORGET OUR LOCAL SOURCES

B & H Pump & Supply

Cedar Hill Firearms (Saltillo)

East Texas Ammo (Mineola)

Black Oak Gun & Ammo (Como)

Village Gun & Pawn (Sulphur Springs)

SGammo.com

Next month we will be concentrating on Rim Fire which will begin in March.

For you history buffsand if you attended the Christmas Party, in December you saw our good friend and milsurp expert receive a very fine momento from Bill Rogers, another HAWKS member with a big heart. And it is still Just His Opinion…

The Vetterli Rifle

First, a little background. Johann-Friedrich Vetterli was a Swiss engineer who was charged with designing a new rifle for the Swiss "National Guard". They have always been Neutral but due to their outstanding commitment to defending their homeland, it has always been unwise to try to step on their toes. That said, the Swiss government was aware that their old rifles needed a huge upgrade. The time was around 1867. Huge advancements were being made worldwide in regard to weaponry. Something new was always just around the corner. The rimfire cartridge was patented in 1845 and was a major step forward for ammo. Although cap and ball muzzle loaders were still being used worldwide, its days were numbered. A fairly successful cartridge was developed by the Germans and it became known as the Dreyse needle gun. The firing pin was sharp, like a needle, and it punctured the back of a paper case filled with black powder. The lead bullet was shaped like an acorn. On the back of the bullet was a common percussion cap facing backwards to the firing pin. The pin struck the primer which ignited the powder and the "acorn" flew out the barrel. Cool, huh?

Anyway, Vetterli was determined to make a better mouse trap. He knew that the center fire cartridge had been patented in 1866 but the concept was so new that hardly any cartridges were available. That did not matter to him as he had already decided to use a tried and true .41 rimfire cartridge. This was an excellent decision by him as this round was quite potent. It had a muzzle velocity of 1425fps. The lead bullet weighed 334 gr..

That calculates to just over 1500 ft/lbs of energy. More than a .44 Mag shot out of a rifle. More than the famous 44-40 round and 3 times the energy of most .45 ACP loads. For its time, it was quite a thumper.

Vetterli had high regard for the Henry rifle that came out in around 1860 and the famous model 1866 Winchester. Both were lever action and both shot rimfire cartridges. However, he and his bosses felt that the lever action was too complicated and expensive to build. But, he did copy the side loading system and the spring loaded tube that held the rounds under the barrel. Basically, pure Winchester. Now the problem was how to get the round up to the barrel and come to battery. He liked the bolt action design of the Dreyse needle gun, so he used that platform. He designed the lift method to raise the cartridge up and into the barrel. Now, he had a rifle capable of firing 12 rounds before reloading. It was simply brilliant and when the rifle was adopted as the Swiss standard in 1869 there was nothing in the world that could compete with it as a military issue rifle.

Most of you know that Bill Rogers gave me a Vetterli rifle that belonged to his Dad. He never fired it and it sat in his closet for at least 50 years. One might think it had rusted away. Not hardly! It is in very good condition and the barrel is in excellent shape. I would not hesitate to fire it. But, since it came with just one round, I may have to wait a bit. When I saw the rifle for the first time at the Christmas party I was awestruck at its condition but noticed things that seemed out of place. I just couldn't put my finger on it. Too excited, I guess. Anyway, once home the research continued. And, as Paul Harvey used to say...Now, for the rest of the story.

I pulled up websites that had pictures and descriptions of every Vetterli model. There were many. None came close to fitting my rifle. What's going on? I read and looked until I was blue in the face. And then....and then I read that magic paragraph. The final piece of the puzzle. Now I understood what was going on.

After the Vetterli rifle was replaced by the Schmidt-Rubin in around 1890 the rifles were sold as military surplus. They were shipped to America by the thousands. They were very inexpensive to buy at that time but they didn't sell all that well. The reason was that they were so long. I mean....really long! Many had 33" barrels and the whole rifle was over 51". Americans had gotten used to much shorter hunting rifles and they just weren't selling. The importer was in a pickle. What must he do to get rid of these things? Well, "Sporterize" them, of course! And, so he did. He chopped several inches off the barrel. Removed around half of the fore stock. Tossed the now useless cleaning rod and made repairs as necessary. In the case of my rifle, the rear stock had been replaced with a wood that was not walnut and the butt plate is made of a composite material. Not metal, as was the original. The front sight had been raised to lower the impact of the bullet at short hunting distances. I had to do the same thing with my Carcano saddle gun. It shot so high it missed the backing material at 25 yds.

The gun itself was all original. Meaning the barrel, receiver and bolt all has the same serial number. As best I can determine, it is a model 1869/71. That model had some major upgrades to the model 1869. They beefed up the barrel and action and as a result made it much stronger. It certainly is a heavy duty weapon!

Do I regret that this rifle was sporterized? Not at all! This is all about history. Sporterizing these rifles is part of that history. Should I decide to hunt with it, it will be short enough not to get all tangled up in the brush. Of course, I need more than one bullet or be labeled a Barney Fife!

I'm thrilled to have this old warrior and so grateful to Bill for his generosity. I'm thinking that Bill is really Santa Claus. Of course, that is Just My Opinion!

Happy Shooting Allen

_______________________________________________________________________________