Hey folks, 12-Gauge Chimp here with a new knife review. Now I know it's been awhile since my last knife review ( the Ka-Bar K2 Agama), but I have a good excuse. The reason I waited so long to do another knife review was because I didn't buy any knives after the Ka-Bar Agama. One of the local sporting goods stores was having a Christmas sale and I picked up a CRKT Hammond Cruiser pocket knife. It usually retails for around 60 dollars US , but since I bought it on sale, I got mine for the low price of 21 dollars US.
Here's the factory specifications on the Hammond Cruiser.
Overall length: 9 inches
Blade length: 3.75 inches
Blade material: AUS-8 stainless steel
It's a combo edge blade with half of the blade plain edged and the other serrated edged, which is what I'm looking for in a knife. It weighs about as much as the Ka-Bar K2 Agama and is about the same size. I've done a few tests with the knife and it passed all of them with flying colors. My only gripes are with the length of the pocket clip and the liner lock system is a bit stiff, but that problem will go away with use. The pocket clip is slightly shorter than the clip on the Agama, but not by much. I currently own two CRKT knives, including the Hammond Cruiser. The other is a CRKT Stiff Kiss that I had a friend custom make some new handle scales for since I wasn't a fan of the factory nylon cord wrapping it came with. Will I purchase CRKT knives in the future ? Yes I will. The Hammond Cruiser will accompany my Ka-Bar Agama as part of my EDC system.
All in all, I recommend the CRKT Hammond Crusier pocket knife. It has it's faults, like the kind of short pocket clip and the rather stiff liner lock, but those are just minor things that I don't like. Not everyone is going to have the same opinions on that as I do nor do I expect them to.
The CRKT Hammond Cruiser gets the 12-Gauge Chimp seal of approval.
Have a Merry Christmas, everyone.
As always, this is 12-Gauge Chimp signing off.
Thursday, December 23, 2010
Thursday, November 11, 2010
Today is Veterans Day.
Hey folks, 12-Gauge Chimp here letting you all know today is Veterans Day.
So, with that said, get out there and thank a veteran for their service and let them know how much they mean to you and your freedom.
If you have someone in your family who served, sit down with them and listen to their stories of their time in the service. That goes double if they fought in either of the World Wars. Soon there will be no one around to tell the stories of WW1 and that makes me sad. We lose men from those wars everyday and I wish I had the opportunity to just shake their hands and maybe listen to their stories. No matter what war you fought in WW1, WW2, Korea, Vietnam, the Gulf War or the current war in Iraq and Afghanistan, you are all heroes in my book and I thank you for your service from the bottom of my heart.
To all veterans, past and present, thank you.
And to those veterans no longer with us, may you forever rest in peace.
This is 12 Gauge Chimp signing off.
So, with that said, get out there and thank a veteran for their service and let them know how much they mean to you and your freedom.
If you have someone in your family who served, sit down with them and listen to their stories of their time in the service. That goes double if they fought in either of the World Wars. Soon there will be no one around to tell the stories of WW1 and that makes me sad. We lose men from those wars everyday and I wish I had the opportunity to just shake their hands and maybe listen to their stories. No matter what war you fought in WW1, WW2, Korea, Vietnam, the Gulf War or the current war in Iraq and Afghanistan, you are all heroes in my book and I thank you for your service from the bottom of my heart.
To all veterans, past and present, thank you.
And to those veterans no longer with us, may you forever rest in peace.
This is 12 Gauge Chimp signing off.
Friday, October 1, 2010
Random Thoughts #13 : Surplus stuff.
Hey there, folks. 12-Gauge Chimp here with a new edition of Random Thoughts.
As most of you remember I mentioned visiting a military surplus shop during one of my trips. Well, I bought a good bit of stuff. I bought another .50 caliber ammo can, a couple of MREs and a Chinese Army issue SKS chest rig. I figured I could use that when I hit the range with my SKS. Well, that and I'm getting tired of lugging around an old messenger bag with ammo in it. The MREs are for my emergency food stash as I was running kind of low, granted I'm still a few MREs short of where I'd like to be, but I'll eventually get to a level where I'm comfortable. The ammo can is being used for its intended purpose, holding my ammo. I know some folks use them as tool boxes and for car survival kits, which I'll make one for myself soon. I also need to rebuild my bug out bag and make 12-Gauge Chimp's Personal Survival Kit version 2.0.
I will, hopefully, be getting out to the range for some well deserved target practice and to finally test my Mossberg Plinkster. Seriously, I've had the rifle since June of this year and I have yet to shoot the thing. That's the thing when I make plans to do a gun review, I say I'm going to go to the range, but something comes up and I don't get to go. Such is life for 12-Gauge Chimp.
Well, that's going to do it for this edition of Random Thoughts. As always, this is 12-Gauge Chimp signing off.
As most of you remember I mentioned visiting a military surplus shop during one of my trips. Well, I bought a good bit of stuff. I bought another .50 caliber ammo can, a couple of MREs and a Chinese Army issue SKS chest rig. I figured I could use that when I hit the range with my SKS. Well, that and I'm getting tired of lugging around an old messenger bag with ammo in it. The MREs are for my emergency food stash as I was running kind of low, granted I'm still a few MREs short of where I'd like to be, but I'll eventually get to a level where I'm comfortable. The ammo can is being used for its intended purpose, holding my ammo. I know some folks use them as tool boxes and for car survival kits, which I'll make one for myself soon. I also need to rebuild my bug out bag and make 12-Gauge Chimp's Personal Survival Kit version 2.0.
I will, hopefully, be getting out to the range for some well deserved target practice and to finally test my Mossberg Plinkster. Seriously, I've had the rifle since June of this year and I have yet to shoot the thing. That's the thing when I make plans to do a gun review, I say I'm going to go to the range, but something comes up and I don't get to go. Such is life for 12-Gauge Chimp.
Well, that's going to do it for this edition of Random Thoughts. As always, this is 12-Gauge Chimp signing off.
Saturday, September 11, 2010
Do you remember 9/11/2001 ?
Today is the 9th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks and I wanted to say a few things and remember what happened that fateful day.
September 11, 2001 was the day our world changed forever and it will never go back to the way it was before that day. Over 3,000 people lost their lives in an attack that would rattle the American people and bring us closer than ever before, at least it did for a few years anyway. Now nine years later very little has been done to rebuild, yeah the rubble has been cleared away, but nothing has been built there aside from a memorial that few people visit. Now I'm not going to get political and complain about the lack of progress on that site or the politics behind any rebuilding efforts, but you'd think in 9 years something would've happened, right ?
America came together that day. Only one thing mattered that day, we all were Americans, no matter if you were rich or poor, strong or weak, young or old, you were an American. Many people lost loved ones that day and people were changed. I, for one, still have nightmares stemming from things I saw on the news footage that day, but my nightmares are nothing compared to those suffered by folks who were there when it happened. They went through what can be considered a living Hell.
I guess what I really want to say is please don't forget the events of September 11, 2001. Don't forget the people who lost their lives that day.
Remember 9/11/2001 forever.
Thank you and God bless America.
This is 12-Gauge Chimp signing off.
September 11, 2001 was the day our world changed forever and it will never go back to the way it was before that day. Over 3,000 people lost their lives in an attack that would rattle the American people and bring us closer than ever before, at least it did for a few years anyway. Now nine years later very little has been done to rebuild, yeah the rubble has been cleared away, but nothing has been built there aside from a memorial that few people visit. Now I'm not going to get political and complain about the lack of progress on that site or the politics behind any rebuilding efforts, but you'd think in 9 years something would've happened, right ?
America came together that day. Only one thing mattered that day, we all were Americans, no matter if you were rich or poor, strong or weak, young or old, you were an American. Many people lost loved ones that day and people were changed. I, for one, still have nightmares stemming from things I saw on the news footage that day, but my nightmares are nothing compared to those suffered by folks who were there when it happened. They went through what can be considered a living Hell.
I guess what I really want to say is please don't forget the events of September 11, 2001. Don't forget the people who lost their lives that day.
Remember 9/11/2001 forever.
Thank you and God bless America.
This is 12-Gauge Chimp signing off.
Sunday, September 5, 2010
Random Thoughts #12: Ode to the Mosin Nagant.
Hey folks, 12-Gauge Chimp here with a new edition of Random Thoughts.
On one of the web forums I post on, there has been some bashing of the Mosin Nagant series of rifles. Some are saying it's the worst rifle out there, while others are saying the guns are ugly and shoot horribly. While it may be true that the Mosin doesn't have the aesthetic appeal of the Mauser or Model 1903 Springfield rifles, it gets the job done. The Russians designed this gun to be dead simple to use and maintain because the troops who would use them weren't exactly used to using a gun. Guns were heavily restricted by the Bolsheviks after the Russian Revolution and even before then, so unlike folks in the US who grew up with a rifle in their hands, most Russians had no idea what to do when they were given a Mosin and told to shoot Wehrmacht soldiers.
I like the Mosin Nagant rifles. While I have other guns in my collection that vastly out shoot my Mosin, it's the one rifle I keep going back to when I want to have fun at the range. The one thing that pisses me off is folks keep comparing the Mosin to the famed Mauser rifles. A Mosin is not the same as a Mauser so stop comparing them to each other. A Mosin will never be a Mauser and vice versa. It's really starting to irritate me. It's almost like the WW2 version of AK-47 vs. AR-15, both rifles are good for what they are and both have their own sets of advantages and disadvantages.
Either gun is good, whether you like the Mosin or the Mauser. They both are dead reliable and almost idiot-proof when it comes to maintaining them.
I'm going to put this to a vote and ask you folks which rifle you like. If you wouldn't mind, please leave a comment with your preference between the Mosin Nagant and the Mauser series of rifles. If you like both rifles like I do, then put that in your comment. It's not a popularity contest or anything I just want to get your opinions on the matter.
That'll do it for this edition of Random Thoughts. As always, this is 12-Gauge Chimp signing off.
On one of the web forums I post on, there has been some bashing of the Mosin Nagant series of rifles. Some are saying it's the worst rifle out there, while others are saying the guns are ugly and shoot horribly. While it may be true that the Mosin doesn't have the aesthetic appeal of the Mauser or Model 1903 Springfield rifles, it gets the job done. The Russians designed this gun to be dead simple to use and maintain because the troops who would use them weren't exactly used to using a gun. Guns were heavily restricted by the Bolsheviks after the Russian Revolution and even before then, so unlike folks in the US who grew up with a rifle in their hands, most Russians had no idea what to do when they were given a Mosin and told to shoot Wehrmacht soldiers.
I like the Mosin Nagant rifles. While I have other guns in my collection that vastly out shoot my Mosin, it's the one rifle I keep going back to when I want to have fun at the range. The one thing that pisses me off is folks keep comparing the Mosin to the famed Mauser rifles. A Mosin is not the same as a Mauser so stop comparing them to each other. A Mosin will never be a Mauser and vice versa. It's really starting to irritate me. It's almost like the WW2 version of AK-47 vs. AR-15, both rifles are good for what they are and both have their own sets of advantages and disadvantages.
Either gun is good, whether you like the Mosin or the Mauser. They both are dead reliable and almost idiot-proof when it comes to maintaining them.
I'm going to put this to a vote and ask you folks which rifle you like. If you wouldn't mind, please leave a comment with your preference between the Mosin Nagant and the Mauser series of rifles. If you like both rifles like I do, then put that in your comment. It's not a popularity contest or anything I just want to get your opinions on the matter.
That'll do it for this edition of Random Thoughts. As always, this is 12-Gauge Chimp signing off.
Wednesday, August 18, 2010
Updates for August 2010: Where is 12 Gauge Chimp ?
Hey folks, 12 Gauge Chimp here with a few updates on where the heck I've been for the last month.
Well, a few things came up that prevented me from doing some of the things I mentioned in my last update ( for more info on that, check out the July 2010 update post.).
Update 1: I hope to get out to the range sometime this month and it'll more than likely happen after I get back from yet another road trip. I'll be gone for a few days starting this Thursday. The website will still be up, but it won't be updated until I get back.
Update 2: After I return from my road trip, I hope to have a few pieces of military surplus gear in my possession. There's a military surplus shop in the area I'm going to that has pretty good deals on surplus gear. The last time I was there I bought a couple MREs and a .50 caliber ammo can. The shop also had a few surplus rifles and handguns in stock, but sadly I did not have the funds to purchase any of them.
That'll do it for this round of updates. I hope you all will continue to visit my site and I promise to update the site more often.
As always, this is 12 Gauge Chimp signing off.
Well, a few things came up that prevented me from doing some of the things I mentioned in my last update ( for more info on that, check out the July 2010 update post.).
Update 1: I hope to get out to the range sometime this month and it'll more than likely happen after I get back from yet another road trip. I'll be gone for a few days starting this Thursday. The website will still be up, but it won't be updated until I get back.
Update 2: After I return from my road trip, I hope to have a few pieces of military surplus gear in my possession. There's a military surplus shop in the area I'm going to that has pretty good deals on surplus gear. The last time I was there I bought a couple MREs and a .50 caliber ammo can. The shop also had a few surplus rifles and handguns in stock, but sadly I did not have the funds to purchase any of them.
That'll do it for this round of updates. I hope you all will continue to visit my site and I promise to update the site more often.
As always, this is 12 Gauge Chimp signing off.
Monday, July 19, 2010
Updates for July 2010: It's like living on the surface of the sun.
Hey folks, 12-Gauge Chimp here with some updates for the month of July.
Update 1: The lack of range reports is due to the fact I live in an area of the country that is almost like living on the surface of the sun and it has been way too hot to do much outside. That includes going to the range. Another reason I haven't been getting to the range as often as I'd like is because the guys I shoot with are either busy with work or college.
My best friend is supposed to be coming to town sometime next week and I'm also supposed to help him test out a 9mm sub-compact pistol. I forgot what model he said it was, but still I get to go to the range. I'll try to bring along my Mossberg Plinkster and see how it shoots so I can finally give you folks a review on it. I just need to pick up another couple of boxes of .22LR ammo.
Update 2: Hopefully, within the next year or two I'll place an order with the Nepalese kukri makers I mentioned a few months ago. I finally found a model I like and now it's just a matter of getting the funds together to pay for the kukri. I have some other things I need to take care of financially first, but rest assured I'll have the kukri in my possession sometime in the next couple of years.
That's going to do it for this set of updates. Another thing I've been meaning to say is, if you have any questions or comments on anything you read on this website, please feel free to leave a comment here on this update post and I'll try to answer your question as soon as I can.
As always, this is 12-Gauge Chimp signing off.
Update 1: The lack of range reports is due to the fact I live in an area of the country that is almost like living on the surface of the sun and it has been way too hot to do much outside. That includes going to the range. Another reason I haven't been getting to the range as often as I'd like is because the guys I shoot with are either busy with work or college.
My best friend is supposed to be coming to town sometime next week and I'm also supposed to help him test out a 9mm sub-compact pistol. I forgot what model he said it was, but still I get to go to the range. I'll try to bring along my Mossberg Plinkster and see how it shoots so I can finally give you folks a review on it. I just need to pick up another couple of boxes of .22LR ammo.
Update 2: Hopefully, within the next year or two I'll place an order with the Nepalese kukri makers I mentioned a few months ago. I finally found a model I like and now it's just a matter of getting the funds together to pay for the kukri. I have some other things I need to take care of financially first, but rest assured I'll have the kukri in my possession sometime in the next couple of years.
That's going to do it for this set of updates. Another thing I've been meaning to say is, if you have any questions or comments on anything you read on this website, please feel free to leave a comment here on this update post and I'll try to answer your question as soon as I can.
As always, this is 12-Gauge Chimp signing off.
Saturday, June 26, 2010
12 Gauge Chimp's New Gun: Mossberg 702 Plinkster .22LR
Hello folks, 12-Gauge Chimp here with a little announcement.
I finally got my Mossberg Plinkster !
As you all may remember, I mentioned I was in the process of buying a Mossberg Plinkster. Well, after 2 months of saving up my money, I finally got my rifle. I went to the local gun shop and filled out the 4473, paid the shop clerk and walked out with a brand new rifle.
This is the very first brand new firearm I have ever bought and it is a nice one. The Mossberg Plinkster is basically the American version of a Brazilian .22LR rifle whose name escapes me at this moment. It's got a 18 inch barrel and uses a detachable box magazine. The mag holds ten rounds of .22LR ammo, with ten rounds being the factory standard for most .22 caliber firearms.
The one downside of the Plinkster is the lack of aftermarket accessories. We all know the famous Ruger 10/22 and it's plethora of aftermarket goodies, but for some reason Mossberg isn't on the same page as Ruger. It's no big deal to me as I'm satisfied with just owning the gun, though I will be looking to buy some extra factory mags for my Plinkster.
I haven't had the oppurtunity to test fire the Plinkster so I can't really give you folks a run down on how it operates or how reliable it is or even a rating. One of the reasons being that I don't have any .22LR ammo and the other being that it's too dang hot for me to go to the range right now. I will be going to the range sometime in the next couple months and after that I will give y'all a full review on the Mossberg Plinkster. For now, I just wanted to let you all know that I finally got the gun.
As always, this is 12-Gauge Chimp signing off.
I finally got my Mossberg Plinkster !
As you all may remember, I mentioned I was in the process of buying a Mossberg Plinkster. Well, after 2 months of saving up my money, I finally got my rifle. I went to the local gun shop and filled out the 4473, paid the shop clerk and walked out with a brand new rifle.
This is the very first brand new firearm I have ever bought and it is a nice one. The Mossberg Plinkster is basically the American version of a Brazilian .22LR rifle whose name escapes me at this moment. It's got a 18 inch barrel and uses a detachable box magazine. The mag holds ten rounds of .22LR ammo, with ten rounds being the factory standard for most .22 caliber firearms.
The one downside of the Plinkster is the lack of aftermarket accessories. We all know the famous Ruger 10/22 and it's plethora of aftermarket goodies, but for some reason Mossberg isn't on the same page as Ruger. It's no big deal to me as I'm satisfied with just owning the gun, though I will be looking to buy some extra factory mags for my Plinkster.
I haven't had the oppurtunity to test fire the Plinkster so I can't really give you folks a run down on how it operates or how reliable it is or even a rating. One of the reasons being that I don't have any .22LR ammo and the other being that it's too dang hot for me to go to the range right now. I will be going to the range sometime in the next couple months and after that I will give y'all a full review on the Mossberg Plinkster. For now, I just wanted to let you all know that I finally got the gun.
As always, this is 12-Gauge Chimp signing off.
Sunday, June 20, 2010
Random Thoughts # 11: Surplus shopping
Hello folks, 12-Gauge Chimp here with a new edition of random thoughts.
As you all may remember, I was on vacation this last week and I managed to stop by one of my favorite surplus stores in Southeast Texas. This place is packed with deals on military surplus stuff and I managed to snag some cool stuff. I was looking for a GI pistol belt and a Y-harness for a survival belt project I've been working on, but instead of buying those items I bought a .50 caliber ammo can and a couple MREs. I spent a bit more than I wanted to, but in the end it was worth it.
I got back home and proceeded to fill my new ammo can with shotgun shells and I came to find that I need more ammo and ammo cans. When you can fit all of your ammo supply into a single .50 caliber ammo can, it's time to buy more ammo. It's a good thing I have a reliable source for 12 gauge shells and other ammo.
I'm still in the process of buying the Mossberg Plinkster I mentioned a couple of weeks ago and I hope to have the rifle in my possession by the middle of July at the very latest.
Well, that'll do it for this edition of Random Thoughts. As always, this is 12-Gauge Chimp signing off.
As you all may remember, I was on vacation this last week and I managed to stop by one of my favorite surplus stores in Southeast Texas. This place is packed with deals on military surplus stuff and I managed to snag some cool stuff. I was looking for a GI pistol belt and a Y-harness for a survival belt project I've been working on, but instead of buying those items I bought a .50 caliber ammo can and a couple MREs. I spent a bit more than I wanted to, but in the end it was worth it.
I got back home and proceeded to fill my new ammo can with shotgun shells and I came to find that I need more ammo and ammo cans. When you can fit all of your ammo supply into a single .50 caliber ammo can, it's time to buy more ammo. It's a good thing I have a reliable source for 12 gauge shells and other ammo.
I'm still in the process of buying the Mossberg Plinkster I mentioned a couple of weeks ago and I hope to have the rifle in my possession by the middle of July at the very latest.
Well, that'll do it for this edition of Random Thoughts. As always, this is 12-Gauge Chimp signing off.
Saturday, June 12, 2010
Updates for June 2010
Hey folks, 12-Gauge Chimp here with some updates for the month of June.
First of all, you may have noticed the new look of the site. I got bored with the original look of my site and decided to change some things around. I think it brings a whole new feel to the site. What do y'all think ? Feel free to comment on the changes because I love hearing from you folks.
I will be on vacation starting Monday June 14th, so the site won't be updated until I get back. Hopefully, when I get back I'll have a new gun or knife review posted because I'm going to be cruising the military surplus stores in my state. Who knows just what kind of deals I'll find and what kind of stuff follows me home. Whatever happens I promise to post a review and maybe a new edition of random thoughts when I return.
Well, that's pretty much it for the updates for June 2010. As always, this is 12-Gauge Chimp signing off.
First of all, you may have noticed the new look of the site. I got bored with the original look of my site and decided to change some things around. I think it brings a whole new feel to the site. What do y'all think ? Feel free to comment on the changes because I love hearing from you folks.
I will be on vacation starting Monday June 14th, so the site won't be updated until I get back. Hopefully, when I get back I'll have a new gun or knife review posted because I'm going to be cruising the military surplus stores in my state. Who knows just what kind of deals I'll find and what kind of stuff follows me home. Whatever happens I promise to post a review and maybe a new edition of random thoughts when I return.
Well, that's pretty much it for the updates for June 2010. As always, this is 12-Gauge Chimp signing off.
Monday, May 17, 2010
Guns and Gear Review # 8: Ka-Bar K2 Agama
Hey folks, your old pal 12-Gauge Chimp here bringing you another knife review. Today I'll be reviewing the Agama made by Ka-Bar.
Here's the factory specs on the Agama.
Blade length: 3.75 inches
Blade material: 3cr13 stainless steel
Handle material: Black G-10 scales
Overall length: 8.38 inches.
I had not planned on purchasing another knife this year, but I was considering replacing my EDC knife with something a bit better made. Before I got the Agama, I carried an assisted opening knife based off of the Kershaw Leek design. I still plan to carry both knives, but the Agama will be my main edc knife from now on.
The Agama is a pretty cool folder with a partially serrated edge and a G10 handle. The blade is fairly sharp for a production knife and will sharpen fairly easy. I wish I could say the same about the assisted opener I usually carry, but what can you expect of a 5 dollar knife. The Agama cost me a little over 13 dollars US, but it usually sells for 39 dollars US. I ended up getting it during a weekend sale at the sporting goods shop I frequently shop at. Since it does not have a traditional thumbstud to open it, I had to practice opening it with the hole that is cut in the blade. After a bit of practice, I can open the Agama with ease.
I haven't gotten around to actually cutting anything with it aside from a sheet of paper I used to test the blades sharpness.
Overall, I'm happy with my purchase and I'm also happy that I finally own a Ka-Bar. Granted, it's not a traditional Ka-Bar, but I will eventually add one of the legendary Ka-Bar USMC fixed blade knives to my growing collection.
The Ka-Bar K2 Agama folding knife gets a 5 out of 5 and the 12-Gauge Chimp seal of approval.
As always, this is 12-Gauge Chimp signing off.
Here's the factory specs on the Agama.
Blade length: 3.75 inches
Blade material: 3cr13 stainless steel
Handle material: Black G-10 scales
Overall length: 8.38 inches.
I had not planned on purchasing another knife this year, but I was considering replacing my EDC knife with something a bit better made. Before I got the Agama, I carried an assisted opening knife based off of the Kershaw Leek design. I still plan to carry both knives, but the Agama will be my main edc knife from now on.
The Agama is a pretty cool folder with a partially serrated edge and a G10 handle. The blade is fairly sharp for a production knife and will sharpen fairly easy. I wish I could say the same about the assisted opener I usually carry, but what can you expect of a 5 dollar knife. The Agama cost me a little over 13 dollars US, but it usually sells for 39 dollars US. I ended up getting it during a weekend sale at the sporting goods shop I frequently shop at. Since it does not have a traditional thumbstud to open it, I had to practice opening it with the hole that is cut in the blade. After a bit of practice, I can open the Agama with ease.
I haven't gotten around to actually cutting anything with it aside from a sheet of paper I used to test the blades sharpness.
Overall, I'm happy with my purchase and I'm also happy that I finally own a Ka-Bar. Granted, it's not a traditional Ka-Bar, but I will eventually add one of the legendary Ka-Bar USMC fixed blade knives to my growing collection.
The Ka-Bar K2 Agama folding knife gets a 5 out of 5 and the 12-Gauge Chimp seal of approval.
As always, this is 12-Gauge Chimp signing off.
Wednesday, April 21, 2010
Random Thoughts # 10: Buying a new gun
Hey folks, your old pal 12-Gauge Chimp here with a new edition of random thoughts.
After perusing the used gun ads online, I found a gun I could actually afford. I found an ad for a Marlin Model 60 .22LR rifle and the price was definitely in my price range. After a bit of looking around and contemplating, I found a brand new rifle of the same brand and model for a little bit more money. I decided that rather than gamble on a used rifle, I could just go ahead and buy a new one instead. I did a bit of additional looking around and I found a better deal on a .22LR rifle.
Instead of buying the Marlin Model 60, I have decided to buy a Mossberg Plinkster. It's a bit cheaper in cost than the Marlin and it uses detachable magazines versus the tube magazine of the Marlin. With it being a new rifle, I'm going to have to fire a couple hundred rounds through it to smooth out any manufacturing blemishes in the action and barrel, but that's half the fun of owning a new gun. That and I can easily afford to blow through a couple hundred rounds of .22LR ammo in one range trip. If I try that with any other caliber, my wallet is screaming profanities at me in several different languages.
If all goes according to my plans, I should have the Mossberg Plinkster in my possession within the next few months. Stay tuned for a range report and a review to come soon after.
Well, that'll do it for this edition of Random Thoughts with 12-Gauge Chimp.
As always, this is 12-Gauge Chimp signing off.
After perusing the used gun ads online, I found a gun I could actually afford. I found an ad for a Marlin Model 60 .22LR rifle and the price was definitely in my price range. After a bit of looking around and contemplating, I found a brand new rifle of the same brand and model for a little bit more money. I decided that rather than gamble on a used rifle, I could just go ahead and buy a new one instead. I did a bit of additional looking around and I found a better deal on a .22LR rifle.
Instead of buying the Marlin Model 60, I have decided to buy a Mossberg Plinkster. It's a bit cheaper in cost than the Marlin and it uses detachable magazines versus the tube magazine of the Marlin. With it being a new rifle, I'm going to have to fire a couple hundred rounds through it to smooth out any manufacturing blemishes in the action and barrel, but that's half the fun of owning a new gun. That and I can easily afford to blow through a couple hundred rounds of .22LR ammo in one range trip. If I try that with any other caliber, my wallet is screaming profanities at me in several different languages.
If all goes according to my plans, I should have the Mossberg Plinkster in my possession within the next few months. Stay tuned for a range report and a review to come soon after.
Well, that'll do it for this edition of Random Thoughts with 12-Gauge Chimp.
As always, this is 12-Gauge Chimp signing off.
Friday, March 26, 2010
Guns and Gear Review # 7: Buck Nighthawk fixed blade
Hey there folks, 12-Gauge Chimp here with another knife review. Today we're going to be looking at a knife that has been in my collection for quite some time. I will be reviewing the Buck Nighthawk.
Here's the factory specifications of the Buck Nighthawk.
Blade type: Modified clip point
Blade length: 4 -7/8"
Blade material: 420HC Stainless steel
Overall length: 10 3/8"
This was my very first high end ( to me anyway) knife purchase. I paid around 39 dollars US for it at a big box sporting goods store in 2005.
It's not exactly the knife of choice for most folks, but for a beginner or someone who's new to fixed blade knives, it works perfectly. It is a very well made knife which is what Buck is known for. The blade is partially serrated, which is great for cutting things like rope. I haven't done a whole heck of a lot with the knife, aside from cutting some rope and shaving a bit of hair off my arm to test the sharpness of the blade.
The blade of the Buck Nighthawk is made from 420HC (high carbon) stainless steel with a black anti-rust coating baked onto it. The handle is made of a high impact nylon with a green rubber inlay. This is meant to act as a no slip grip and cushion the users hand when hacking or cutting. The sheath is comprised of ballistic nylon with an ABS plastic insert to keep the blade from wiggling back and forth in the sheath. The Buck logo is embroidered on the sheath in white and it's a well put together sheath.
Overall, the Buck Nighthawk is a well made knife and is a great addition to any collection. It's a knife that can withstand a ton of abuse and will not fail. It's also great knife to take with you when you go camping.
I'm going to rate this knife as a 5 out of 5. It's one of the best knifes for a beginner in fixed blade knife collecting and it is one of the best low cost knives out there.
I hope you have enjoyed my review of the Buck Nighthawk and as always this is 12-Gauge Chimp signing off.
Here's the factory specifications of the Buck Nighthawk.
Blade type: Modified clip point
Blade length: 4 -7/8"
Blade material: 420HC Stainless steel
Overall length: 10 3/8"
This was my very first high end ( to me anyway) knife purchase. I paid around 39 dollars US for it at a big box sporting goods store in 2005.
It's not exactly the knife of choice for most folks, but for a beginner or someone who's new to fixed blade knives, it works perfectly. It is a very well made knife which is what Buck is known for. The blade is partially serrated, which is great for cutting things like rope. I haven't done a whole heck of a lot with the knife, aside from cutting some rope and shaving a bit of hair off my arm to test the sharpness of the blade.
The blade of the Buck Nighthawk is made from 420HC (high carbon) stainless steel with a black anti-rust coating baked onto it. The handle is made of a high impact nylon with a green rubber inlay. This is meant to act as a no slip grip and cushion the users hand when hacking or cutting. The sheath is comprised of ballistic nylon with an ABS plastic insert to keep the blade from wiggling back and forth in the sheath. The Buck logo is embroidered on the sheath in white and it's a well put together sheath.
Overall, the Buck Nighthawk is a well made knife and is a great addition to any collection. It's a knife that can withstand a ton of abuse and will not fail. It's also great knife to take with you when you go camping.
I'm going to rate this knife as a 5 out of 5. It's one of the best knifes for a beginner in fixed blade knife collecting and it is one of the best low cost knives out there.
I hope you have enjoyed my review of the Buck Nighthawk and as always this is 12-Gauge Chimp signing off.
Sunday, March 21, 2010
Random Thoughts # 9: UCW 7.62x39mm ammo
Hey there folks, your old pal 12-Gauge Chimp here with a brand spanking new edition of Random Thoughts.
I recently found out the sporting goods store where I purchased my Mosin-Nagant had a small supply of Winchester military grade buckshot. Being the sucker I am for military stuff, I decided to buy a couple boxes. Well, when I went to purchase a box or three the manager of the store informed me they had sold out and he didn't know when they'd get any more in. Disappointed, I glanced over at the ammo shelves and noticed they had quite a few boxes of UCW 7.62x39mm ammo. I've heard of this ammo, but had never seen any in the shops I frequent. I bought two boxes and am eagerly awaiting when the weather heats up so I can get out to the range and test this ammo in my Model 59 SKS. Unlike my Mosin, my SKS will eat any kind of 7.62x39mm ammo I can get ahold of and that includes lacquer coated ammo.
Now that I think about it, most companies that produce lacquer coated 7.62x39 ammo have switched to a polymer coating. No matter, my SKS can and will chamber and fire the stuff.
Enough about my guns, on to the ammo.
It's made in Russia by the Ulyanovsk Cartridge Works and is imported into the US by various companies. It's Berdan primed and non-corrosive, which is a plus in my book. Most commercially made ammo coming out of Russia is non-corrosive and only the military surplus ammo is corrosively primed.
One thing I did hear about the ammo is that some folks in my area who had bought it claimed it jammed their AKs or SKS's. I told the counter guy that if folks would clean their guns once in awhile, they wouldn't have that problem. Folks, just because an AK or an SKS is tough, reliable and idiot-proof, it doesn't mean you never have to clean it.
That'll do it for this edition of Random Thoughts with 12-Gauge Chimp. Stay tuned for the next edition coming soon.
As always, this is 12-Gauge Chimp signing off.
I recently found out the sporting goods store where I purchased my Mosin-Nagant had a small supply of Winchester military grade buckshot. Being the sucker I am for military stuff, I decided to buy a couple boxes. Well, when I went to purchase a box or three the manager of the store informed me they had sold out and he didn't know when they'd get any more in. Disappointed, I glanced over at the ammo shelves and noticed they had quite a few boxes of UCW 7.62x39mm ammo. I've heard of this ammo, but had never seen any in the shops I frequent. I bought two boxes and am eagerly awaiting when the weather heats up so I can get out to the range and test this ammo in my Model 59 SKS. Unlike my Mosin, my SKS will eat any kind of 7.62x39mm ammo I can get ahold of and that includes lacquer coated ammo.
Now that I think about it, most companies that produce lacquer coated 7.62x39 ammo have switched to a polymer coating. No matter, my SKS can and will chamber and fire the stuff.
Enough about my guns, on to the ammo.
It's made in Russia by the Ulyanovsk Cartridge Works and is imported into the US by various companies. It's Berdan primed and non-corrosive, which is a plus in my book. Most commercially made ammo coming out of Russia is non-corrosive and only the military surplus ammo is corrosively primed.
One thing I did hear about the ammo is that some folks in my area who had bought it claimed it jammed their AKs or SKS's. I told the counter guy that if folks would clean their guns once in awhile, they wouldn't have that problem. Folks, just because an AK or an SKS is tough, reliable and idiot-proof, it doesn't mean you never have to clean it.
That'll do it for this edition of Random Thoughts with 12-Gauge Chimp. Stay tuned for the next edition coming soon.
As always, this is 12-Gauge Chimp signing off.
Monday, February 22, 2010
Updates for February: I'm still here.
Hey folks, your old pal 12-Gauge Chimp here with some updates.
You all are probably wondering where I've been these last couple weeks. Well, I have had a lot of things come up and haven't really had time to update the site like I would like to. That being said, I have a couple updates for you all and here they are.
1. I am in the process of ordering an actual Nepalese kukri. Hopefully I will get the knife within the next few months and I will post a review and what I think of it as soon as I can.
2. No new guns just yet. I know you are all wondering when I will be doing another gun review and I am eagerly awaiting adding an AK and a CZ-82 to my collection. I know I mentioned buying another Mosin Nagant rifle awhile back, but instead changed my mind. I have now buckled down and decided to buy the CZ and AK when I am able to and this will be the last time I mention buying a new gun or guns for the time being. No more changing my mind.
3. I will try to post some more knife reviews as soon as I can. I just haven't bought any new knives in a few weeks. Actually I did, but they were just some cheap knockoffs of the Kershaw Leek assisted opening knife, nothing really review worthy about them.
4. My site is on the first page of search results for " Mossberg Bullpup review " on Google. That is pretty cool.
Ok, that's pretty much it for updates for this month. I hope you folks will continue to visit my blog and remember, if you like something on my site feel free to comment on an entry or if you really like the site, become a Friend of the Chimp.
As always, this is 12-Gauge Chimp signing off.
You all are probably wondering where I've been these last couple weeks. Well, I have had a lot of things come up and haven't really had time to update the site like I would like to. That being said, I have a couple updates for you all and here they are.
1. I am in the process of ordering an actual Nepalese kukri. Hopefully I will get the knife within the next few months and I will post a review and what I think of it as soon as I can.
2. No new guns just yet. I know you are all wondering when I will be doing another gun review and I am eagerly awaiting adding an AK and a CZ-82 to my collection. I know I mentioned buying another Mosin Nagant rifle awhile back, but instead changed my mind. I have now buckled down and decided to buy the CZ and AK when I am able to and this will be the last time I mention buying a new gun or guns for the time being. No more changing my mind.
3. I will try to post some more knife reviews as soon as I can. I just haven't bought any new knives in a few weeks. Actually I did, but they were just some cheap knockoffs of the Kershaw Leek assisted opening knife, nothing really review worthy about them.
4. My site is on the first page of search results for " Mossberg Bullpup review " on Google. That is pretty cool.
Ok, that's pretty much it for updates for this month. I hope you folks will continue to visit my blog and remember, if you like something on my site feel free to comment on an entry or if you really like the site, become a Friend of the Chimp.
As always, this is 12-Gauge Chimp signing off.
Sunday, January 24, 2010
Range Report # 3: Mossberg 500 Bullpup and Mosin M91/30
Hey folks, it's your old pal 12-Gauge Chimp bringing you a new range report.
I finally got a chance to go to the range near my place today. I shot two firearms from my collection today, my prized Mossberg 500 Bullpup and my 1932 vintage Mosin Nagant M91/30.
I recently purchased some Silver Bear 7.62x54R cartridges for my Mosin M91/30 and I was a bit curious as to how they would work in my rifle. As you all may remember, my Mosin HATES lacquer coated ammo with a passion and I was unsure how it would take to the zinc plating on the new ammo. I chambered one round and did a quick glance around the range for something to smack the bolt with just in case. Turns out I didn't need anything because the bolt was easily operated and I was able to keep the rifle shouldered and chamber a fresh round. I will be ordering this ammo in bulk as soon as I am able to, it is that good.
When I depleted my single box of Silver Bear ammo, I turned my attention to my Mossberg.
I had bought a box of 12 gauge slugs awhile back and I wanted to see if my shotgun was able to shoot them well. Well, they work and oh my are they powerful. I shot at an old microwave and the result was a rather large hole. I fired one slug and was subconciously expecting rather stout recoil, but to my surprise the recoil was about the same as firing a round of my standard 12 gauge load of Federal number 8 shot shells. I went through the single box I had brought along for testing purposes and then loaded my Mossberg with the aforementioned Federal shells. I had brought along a box of Remington brand buckshot shells, but I didn't get around to testing those. Maybe next time. One thing I did notice after firing the Remington slugs, the bolt release on my shotgun seemed to stick after firing a shell, but that could be due to the fact that I probably didn't have the grip safety pushed in completely. However, I will not be firing any more slugs through my shotgun, from now on I will only fire standard shells and buckshot loads in it. The slugs will be saved for the next shotgun I buy, which will probably be a Mossberg 590 or some other type of Mossberg.
Anyway, both the Remington 12 gauge shotgun slugs and the Silver Bear 7.62x54R rifle cartridges get the 12-Gauge Chimp seal of approval.
Overall, I had a fun day at the range and now know which brand of ammo my Mosin likes. I'm still going to try and find a brand of lacquer coated 7.62x54R ammo that my Mosin will digest the same way it does with the Silver Bear ammo.
As always, this is 12-Gauge Chimp signing off.
I finally got a chance to go to the range near my place today. I shot two firearms from my collection today, my prized Mossberg 500 Bullpup and my 1932 vintage Mosin Nagant M91/30.
I recently purchased some Silver Bear 7.62x54R cartridges for my Mosin M91/30 and I was a bit curious as to how they would work in my rifle. As you all may remember, my Mosin HATES lacquer coated ammo with a passion and I was unsure how it would take to the zinc plating on the new ammo. I chambered one round and did a quick glance around the range for something to smack the bolt with just in case. Turns out I didn't need anything because the bolt was easily operated and I was able to keep the rifle shouldered and chamber a fresh round. I will be ordering this ammo in bulk as soon as I am able to, it is that good.
When I depleted my single box of Silver Bear ammo, I turned my attention to my Mossberg.
I had bought a box of 12 gauge slugs awhile back and I wanted to see if my shotgun was able to shoot them well. Well, they work and oh my are they powerful. I shot at an old microwave and the result was a rather large hole. I fired one slug and was subconciously expecting rather stout recoil, but to my surprise the recoil was about the same as firing a round of my standard 12 gauge load of Federal number 8 shot shells. I went through the single box I had brought along for testing purposes and then loaded my Mossberg with the aforementioned Federal shells. I had brought along a box of Remington brand buckshot shells, but I didn't get around to testing those. Maybe next time. One thing I did notice after firing the Remington slugs, the bolt release on my shotgun seemed to stick after firing a shell, but that could be due to the fact that I probably didn't have the grip safety pushed in completely. However, I will not be firing any more slugs through my shotgun, from now on I will only fire standard shells and buckshot loads in it. The slugs will be saved for the next shotgun I buy, which will probably be a Mossberg 590 or some other type of Mossberg.
Anyway, both the Remington 12 gauge shotgun slugs and the Silver Bear 7.62x54R rifle cartridges get the 12-Gauge Chimp seal of approval.
Overall, I had a fun day at the range and now know which brand of ammo my Mosin likes. I'm still going to try and find a brand of lacquer coated 7.62x54R ammo that my Mosin will digest the same way it does with the Silver Bear ammo.
As always, this is 12-Gauge Chimp signing off.
Saturday, January 16, 2010
Guns and Gear Review #6: Maxam/M-Tech Kukri
Hello folks, it's your old pal 12 Gauge Chimp here, bringing you another knife review.
Today, I'll be reviewing the Maxam/M-Tech Kukri.
Factory Specifications for : Maxam/M-Tech Kukri
Blade type: Kukri, rat tail tang, fixed blade
Blade material: 440 stainless steel
Blade length: 10"
Overall length: 14.5"
I purchased this knife at a local VFW flea market for the price of around 15 dollars US. It came with the usual nylon sheath that many low price knives have. The finish is nice being a sort of anti-rust coating. The handle is a hard rubber with a lanyard hole molded in. Overall, it's a nice looking knife.
After a little bit of research on my part, I found out the blade was made of 440 stainless steel, which in it's own way is a good type of steel. However, for a knife that will see heavy use like the kukri, 440 stainless steel is all but useless. The sheath that came with the kukri was advertised as being " Ballistic Nylon " which, in reality, it turned out to be plain nylon webbing. The exact same kind you'd get with numerous low quality knives. It holds the knife in, but that's about all it does. A snap is supposed to keep the knife secure, but I found out that even with the snap fastened, I can still draw the knife out. That's not good.
The handle was a bit loose, but after drilling a couple holes into it and filling it with an epoxy mix, that problem was solved. It still rattles a bit, but not as much as it did before.
After residing at the bottom of my knife drawer, I decided to test the kukri's cutting ability. That and I wanted to see if I could hack open a coconut with it, which it actually does a pretty decent job of by the way. I did kind of ding the blade after my first couple of attempts at hacking the coconut, but once I got into the swing of things, that coconut was split into two pieces.
Overall, I'm happy with the knife. It's not a bad knife, but it's not one of the best out there. I will continue to look for a kukri and the Maxam/M-Tech Kukri will be used only for the occasional coconut hacking.
I'm going to rate this knife a 3 out of 5. Not bad, but could be better.
As always, this is 12-Gauge Chimp signing off.
Today, I'll be reviewing the Maxam/M-Tech Kukri.
Factory Specifications for : Maxam/M-Tech Kukri
Blade type: Kukri, rat tail tang, fixed blade
Blade material: 440 stainless steel
Blade length: 10"
Overall length: 14.5"
I purchased this knife at a local VFW flea market for the price of around 15 dollars US. It came with the usual nylon sheath that many low price knives have. The finish is nice being a sort of anti-rust coating. The handle is a hard rubber with a lanyard hole molded in. Overall, it's a nice looking knife.
After a little bit of research on my part, I found out the blade was made of 440 stainless steel, which in it's own way is a good type of steel. However, for a knife that will see heavy use like the kukri, 440 stainless steel is all but useless. The sheath that came with the kukri was advertised as being " Ballistic Nylon " which, in reality, it turned out to be plain nylon webbing. The exact same kind you'd get with numerous low quality knives. It holds the knife in, but that's about all it does. A snap is supposed to keep the knife secure, but I found out that even with the snap fastened, I can still draw the knife out. That's not good.
The handle was a bit loose, but after drilling a couple holes into it and filling it with an epoxy mix, that problem was solved. It still rattles a bit, but not as much as it did before.
After residing at the bottom of my knife drawer, I decided to test the kukri's cutting ability. That and I wanted to see if I could hack open a coconut with it, which it actually does a pretty decent job of by the way. I did kind of ding the blade after my first couple of attempts at hacking the coconut, but once I got into the swing of things, that coconut was split into two pieces.
Overall, I'm happy with the knife. It's not a bad knife, but it's not one of the best out there. I will continue to look for a kukri and the Maxam/M-Tech Kukri will be used only for the occasional coconut hacking.
I'm going to rate this knife a 3 out of 5. Not bad, but could be better.
As always, this is 12-Gauge Chimp signing off.
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