Mr. Rawles,
First, I must say that greatly appreciate your website and the expertise that
you share. I am 21, and am trying to lead getting my family and close friends
prepared logistically for whatever may be coming down in the future. Your information
and suggestions are a time/money saver (and likely eventually a life saver.) "Patriots" is
an invaluable resource, and more can always be gleaned every time it is read.
Thank you!
I wanted to comment on the 45 ACP post from Dec. 20. I generally shy away from
handgun discussions because handguns are a mediocre weapon, and the discussions
are predictable. In my opinion, the Army Aviators story about the stopping power
of a .45 is really inconsequential. If he really did hit the enemy with all 29
rounds, then he didn't hit him COM. The 3 rounds of 45 ACP and the previous damage
from the 9mm is what dropped him. He wasn't dropped because the .45 is a "super
death ray gun", but is likely because of 3 aimed shots to a vital area.
To say the 3 aimed .45 slugs is better than 29 aimed 9mm slugs is not accurate.
To say that 3 aimed .45 slugs is better that 29 not-aimed shots would be more
accurate. It's just a thought, because I don't want to criticize, and I admire
his brave service in the army.
I appreciate and understand the fondness of the 'Warhorse' (I won't say 'old'
Warhorse. I have completed several KT Ordnance "80% Complete" Model
1911s with great success. (See: http://www.ktordnance.com/kto/index.php )
Although the process is very rewarding, I learned that my taste for expensive
parts (Smith&Alexander;
Ed Brown beavertails, sears, hammers, triggers; Kart barrels; Caspian slides...oh
it goes on) can really add up. There can be a lot said for understanding a weapons
mechanism and operation, and the 80% project is a good way to understand the
basics. I was continually humbled by the vastness of experience needed to successfully
do this as a profession.
For someone considering a 80% [KT Ordnance] 'build', I would say to set a budget
and not exceed it. A good 3 inch group gun can be put together for $500-$600,
and that is all that is really needed. A 1911 that shoots 1 inch or less is wonderful,
but reliability is second to none! I now prefer the 'abomination' called the
Glock. With a capacity of 13+1 .45 ACPs, it puts the odds back in the wielders
favor. The price is usually half that of a comparable 'value' 1911.
'A 9mm might expand but a 45 won't shrink'. True, however there are good reasons
for having a 9mm in a one's cache. First, it is so common. Ammunition is cheap.
There are loads available that have more foot-pounds energy than .45 ACP hardball
(but
comparing premium self defense loads to UMC ball isn't exactly a fair comparison).
The 9mm trumps the .38 Special snubby, especially if you look at the Glock 26.
The G26 is 10+1(compared to 5 shots in a snub nose), accepts high caps., and
the 9mm is more powerful than the 38. The 9mm may be more lady friendly, although
the .45 is mild enough to shoot that really anyone should be able to feel comfortable
with it(the .45 is much more mild than the 40 S&W which many female police
officers must shoot, once a year typically). Capacity is some what important,
although familiarity with tactical and emergency reloads is equally as important.
I did some 1911 work for a ex-SWAT and nationally known 3-gun guy, and he now
prefers a Glock 17 (9mm) because of it's capacity and his accomplished skill
with the sidearm he shoots 20,000 rounds a year with. It really shouldn't be
the first
choice if there is a .45 or 10mm available, but it was also provide valuable
'wampum' to a post collapse situation (like in your novel with the trade of the
Browning Hi-Power for the horse!) Once again, a hearty thanks for your website
and
book.
Sincerely, - The Legend
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