I just make the observation that an awful lot of people are suddenly interested in buying all kinds of firearms. Not necessarily a political thing, but does make you think...

Seems to be common about everywhere.

Yes, it does.

Didn't we see reports of an uptick in interest at general preparedness websites and such, recently, too?

I wonder if there is a major "gun run" really going on, whether it will get reported in the popular media (and HOW it will be reported), and whether it is an expression of general socio-economic insecurity or of concern specifically over partisan electoral outcomes?

I hope it is the former and not the latter. I think we are becoming a bit too polarized in a politically unhealthy way, lately. When I hear major candidates or politicians refer to "Real" Americans and "un"-Americans, and make calls for loyalty investigations, I get uncomfortable, because I think it is destabilizing. In any case, I think we are entering another era of rapid change and some attendant socio-economic dislocation and readjustment.

I hope, whoever wins, our national leaders recognize and act on a need to foster a sense of national unity and a greater focus on urgent national, rather than less pressing partisan, priorities.

Jeff

Wouldn't THAT be an interesting turn of events! I think I won't hold my breath.

I'm basically an optimist, but not the breath-holding kind.

Jeff

I've been wanting to buy/learn to shoot a handgun for a few years now, was going to buy a .22 to learn on for a few years so I wonder what will happen long term, should I skip up to a "real" gun.

Probably not. Just keep track of political developments. .22 handguns are the least likely caliber of handgun to get banned, although handguns themselves are just behind ammo on the list of things likely to see restrictions.

I'm betting we won't see much in the way of new gun restrictions from the new Congress. But 2nd Amendment rights, like ALL civil rights, are fragile things, requiring constant safeguarding.

Jeff

I've been thinking about getting back into elk hunting after 20 years absence. No good reason, just busy with work and kids. Let me know if you ever want to get to that outdoor shooting area, maybe we could take a trip up there in my truck.

I wish we had a good outdoor range close by, the really good one up by me closed a few years back. I like a good bench rest as opposed to being on my knees, but will do what I have to.

My 45/70 needs to be dialed in anyway...