So Where the Heck Has Frank Been

[Frank]

http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l142/fiddletown_2006/SCI%202009/IMG_0409y.jpg

Well actually, I don't know that "you" are there. And anyway, I'm not there now. But I was there.

Specifically, I've been in Reno, Nevada since Tuesday night. I came for the annual Safari Club convention. And it is a major "do." This is my first time here, but it won't be my last.

The Safari Club is all about hunting and fishing. So the Reno-Sparks Convention Center is chock full of guides and outfitters who offer hunting and fish trips anywhere and everywhere. Of course there were the expected legions of African professional hunters, but there were also representatives of hunting lodges and providers of guide services for that special elk hunt in Idaho, or a buffalo (American version) hunt in New Mexico or pheasants in Kentucky. If you want to hunt in New Zealand or fish off the coast of Costa Rica, this is the place to book your trip. And if you want to hunt in China, the Balkans or Russia, there were outfitters here who could accommodate you.

The convention runs through Saturday, but I'll be heading home tomorrow. It looks like some weather may be moving in, and in any case, I'd like to beat the weekend traffic. The convention is huge, and two days really just scratched the surface.

Well, I still have more to say, and there are pictures. But I'm going to break this up into several posts to keep things from getting too unmanageable. So there's more to come.

But BTW, I met Sheriff Jim Wilson yesterday.

DVC

[Rich-D]

Frank. I am envious! Wish I were there! :)


Rich

[Frank]

Well actually, he was at another table with a bunch of folks in the hotel coffee shop. But he wasn't far away. And he was eating his breakfast at the same time I was eating mine.

http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l142/fiddletown_2006/SCI%202009/IMG_0385.jpg

He spoke last night at the big dinner and auction. But after all the walking I did I was just too wiped out, so I missed it. I'm kind of sorry now. At the same time, I know from past experience that these auction deals can get expensive, so it's probably just as well.

As far as the convention goes, it's only partially guides and outfitters. Where there is hunting, there are guns and gear. No EBRs here, but there where plenty of shotguns with truly scary price tags.

http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l142/fiddletown_2006/SCI%202009/IMG_0386.jpg

http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l142/fiddletown_2006/SCI%202009/IMG_0387.jpg

This Fabbri costs more than I've ever paid for a car (yes, including the Mercedes).

http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l142/fiddletown_2006/SCI%202009/IMG_0390.jpg

There was also a full contingent of custom rifle makers and fine gun dealer. Here was Holland and Holland, and there was Blaser, and over there was Griffin and Howe.

There were fine knife makers all over.

http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l142/fiddletown_2006/SCI%202009/IMG_0430.jpg

And all other manner of gear was represented, including custom boots (such as the Russell Moccasin folks and J. B. Hall from Texas), luggage, gun cabinets, and even furniture. There were also an abundance of fur dealers and jewelers. Why you might ask. Since anything I might say on the subject is likely to get me into trouble, I suggest that you just think about it. I think the answer will come to you.

And our friends from Gunsite were there as well.

http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l142/fiddletown_2006/SCI%202009/IMG_0444.jpg

DVC

[Frank]

These folks were there with about ten set ups to play on. http://www.lasershot-hometheater.com/

This system consists of a computer with multiple game programs, projector to project the game images on a screen, a gun that projects a laser image onto the screen and a camera to record the result. There are realistic clay target games, big game hunts and tactical pistol exercises of many different flavors. While the systems come with "play" guns, I was told that laser devices to fit your favorite pistol, rifle or shotgun are, or will be available.

I spent some time with one of their representative doing one of the many tactical pistol exercises. A silhouette target would flash on the screen somewhere and be visible for a limited time. After it disappeared, another would appear somewhere else, and so on. The time on screen is adjustable. We used fairly realistic 1911 or Glock pattern laser guns. I found that after a few runs with 1 second and then 0.8 second exposure, I could shoot 90%+ down to 0.6 second target exposure (below that, I fell completely apart). But the other guy was amazing. He could stay at 85%+ down to a 0.4 second exposure.

This is one very serious Christmas present.

DVC

[Frank]

There were some incredible examples of taxidermy scattered around the show.

http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l142/fiddletown_2006/SCI%202009/IMG_0395.jpg

http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l142/fiddletown_2006/SCI%202009/IMG_0397.jpg

http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l142/fiddletown_2006/SCI%202009/IMG_0398.jpg

http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l142/fiddletown_2006/SCI%202009/IMG_0399.jpg

It was most assuredly not advisable to try to sneak in without a ticket. The security guards had no sense of humor.

http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l142/fiddletown_2006/SCI%202009/IMG_0400.jpg

But they let the animals run wild.

http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l142/fiddletown_2006/SCI%202009/IMG_0401.jpg

DVC

[Frank]

There just wasn't much.

However Smith & Wesson was there, and I got to see and handle their new 1911 models.

Here's the new S&W version of the CCO, Commander size top end on an Officers size alloy frame.

http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l142/fiddletown_2006/SCI%202009/IMG_0416.jpg

Then there's the compact (3 inch barrel) number and a new 1911 in 9mm.

http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l142/fiddletown_2006/SCI%202009/IMG_0426.jpg

And for formal occasions --

http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l142/fiddletown_2006/SCI%202009/IMG_0418.jpg

One of the most interesting new S&W 1911 is the TPF (titanium firing pin) model. It's all stainless steel with a melonite finish.

http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l142/fiddletown_2006/SCI%202009/IMG_0429.jpg

And it does not have a firing pin safety.

http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l142/fiddletown_2006/SCI%202009/IMG_0428.jpg

And if you'd like to dress up your 1911, and you're looking for something a little more formal than the exotic wood from Esmeralda, the Texas silversmith, Clint Orms (http://clintorms.com ) was showing these.

http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l142/fiddletown_2006/SCI%202009/IMG_0411.jpg

DVC

[Frank]

I walked miles and miles. Exhibitors occupied almost all of the convention center. I sort of envied this fellow who got to ride in style in his owner's handbag.

http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l142/fiddletown_2006/SCI%202009/IMG_0388.jpg

DVC

[Hunter]

Looks like a great visit Frank. Excellent job on the pictures!

[Frank]

Rich, you can always try for next year.

Hunter, thank you.

DVC

[gottripletsNC]

http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l142/fiddletown_2006/SCI%202009/IMG_0386.jpg
Hey Frank, is that the name brand or where they pokin' fun at us sutheners about the way we talk down hyeah?
"Man, them shur is sum purdey guns!"

[Joni Lynn]

Nice Frank!!
Thanks for the pics.

[OD*]

I am absolutely green, Frank!

Thanks for the great report.

[Frank]

Thanks guys.

DVC

[Frank]

http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l142/fiddletown_2006/SCI%202009/IMG_0386.jpg
Hey Frank, is that the name brand or where they pokin' fun at us sutheners about the way we talk down hyeah?
"Man, them shur is sum purdey guns!"
Brian, I have it on good authority that's exactly how the company got its name. :D

DVC

[garrettwc]

So while I'm sitting here slaving away in the frozen Midwest you've been off in Reno doing a Peter Capstick impersonation with Tom Selleck and Sheriff Wilson.

Lucky devil. http://www.cobusnet.nl/images/emoticons/hulde.gif

[Frank]

Well Garrett, if it's any consolation to you, the weather here hasn't been all that good either -- rainy, cold and dreary.

DVC

[gottripletsNC]

being around all them guns, No Frank, its no consolation.

[d90king]

WOW!!!! I am speechless, that looks like an amazing event!

That might have to be the place we can meet in person next year. Great pics of stunning firearms and taxidermy.

I am very jealous :o :o :o :o

[d90king]

Well actually, he was at another table with a bunch of folks in the hotel coffee shop. But he wasn't far away. And he was eating his breakfast at the same time I was eating mine.

http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l142/fiddletown_2006/SCI%202009/IMG_0385.jpg
DVC


I love the pin he is wearing on his lapel!!!! Has anybody else noticed it?

[OD*]

Yep, "Don't tread on me."

http://www.foundingfathers.info/stories/images/gadsden-flap.gif

[d90king]

Yep, "Don't tread on me."

http://www.foundingfathers.info/stories/images/gadsden-flap.gif


You are the man!!!

I wish more people actually had the proper respect for the flag and it's meaning at the time.

David McCullough has helped bring awareness in recent years. He is a great author.

[garrettwc]

Well Garrett, if it's any consolation to you, the weather here hasn't been all that good either -- rainy, cold and dreary.

DVC

So instead of taking a walk outside you stayed in the hotel and warmed yourself by the fire with a bourbon and a good steak. Yeah I feel much better. :lh:

[Frank]

So instead of taking a walk outside you stayed in the hotel and warmed yourself by the fire with a bourbon and a good steak. Yeah I feel much better. :lh:
Well, I tried, and unfortunately, the hotel did not have a fireplace. But this may help. I conveniently forgot this little event.

So Wednesday evening, after my first day at the show, I drag myself back to my hotel absolutely bushed. I'm waiting at the elevator. It arrives, and a guy steps off. He looks vaguely familiar. He sees my convention badge, which has my name, and says, "Hi, Frank." I must look puzzled, because the next thing he says is, "NRA." I stammer something about being a life member and that he looks familiar, and I sort of recognize him and start thinking out load about who he may be. So he hands me his card -- Wayne LaPierre.

So I manage to top off my first day at the Safari Club convention by putting on a stunning display of incoherence in front of the EVP of the NRA and conclusively demonstrating that at least one life member of that organization is a blithering idiot.

DVC

[Tom]

I love the pin he is wearing on his lapel!!!! Has anybody else noticed it?
Yes, I noticed it immediately, although I am partial to the U.S. Navy's version:

http://www.jcbutlerazdesa.com/Navy-Jack.gif

[Frank]

I'm sorry to say I missed it, but I'm very pleased now that I know what it is.

DVC

[Frank]

WOW!!!! I am speechless, that looks like an amazing event!

That might have to be the place we can meet in person next year. Great pics of stunning firearms and taxidermy. ...
Thanks, Patrick. And meeting there next year would be great. I'd think you'd really enjoy the event.

DVC

[Immortal_Ben]

Outstanding report Frank. The pictures were great, and as usual.. your stories were entertaining. Especially your run-in with Wayne... hahahahahah. At least you didnt say anything about the .org

[Frank]

...your run-in with Wayne... hahahahahah. At least you didnt say anything about the .org
Thanks, Ben

You know, usually John gets annoyed with me if I don't constantly plug m1911.org. But in this case, I think he should be pleased that Wayne doesn't know I'm associated with .org. After the little performance I put on, Wayne would be thinking that John had way too much ouzo when he signed me on.

DVC

[Tom]

I'm betting that if Mr. LaPierre doesn't know by now ... he'll know soon enough. I'm sure the NRA employs web "bots" to scour the Internet for various key words and phrases, and I'm sure his name in on the list.

You're busted, Frank. Sorry. :(

[Joni Lynn]

At least you didn't drool on yourself or anything.

You didn't.............did you? ;)

[Frank]

I'm betting that if Mr. LaPierre doesn't know by now ... he'll know soon enough. I'm sure the NRA employs web "bots" to scour the Internet for various key words and phrases, and I'm sure his name in on the list.

You're busted, Frank. Sorry. :(
Well then, maybe I've redeemed myself with my pithy comments and wry wit. :)

At least you didn't drool on yourself or anything. You didn't.............did you?
Fortunately Lynnie, I managed to avoid that. But if I get another chance, that may be a fitting encore.

DVC

[garrettwc]

LOL Frank!

Maybe you should make it up to him with a "LaPierre is My President" bumper sticker on the Mercedes. :p

[horse 91-A1]

At least you didn't drool on yourself or anything.

You didn't.............did you? ;)

Maybe his libble encounter at da elebator haid moor t'do with Jagermeister dan ouzo. :p

Bob :appld:

[d90king]

Yes, I noticed it immediately, although I am partial to the U.S. Navy's version:

http://www.jcbutlerazdesa.com/Navy-Jack.gif


Very nice! I don't know my Navy history very well but I would assume that was the first flag flown on a "US" ship intercepting the British????

I prefer Ben's chopped version that reads "join or die".......

[dogdollar]

So I manage to top off my first day at the Safari Club convention by putting on a stunning display of incoherence in front of the EVP of the NRA and conclusively demonstrating that at least one life member of that organization is a blithering idiot.

DVC

It sounds like it could have been worse, Frank.

If it were me, I probably would have gotten stuck in the elevator, alone with him, and said something totally stupid and inappropriate like, "So - hey - how about those armor piercing bullets, huh?"

DD

[Tom]

I don't know my Navy history very well but I would assume that was the first flag flown on a "US" ship intercepting the British????
No. There's a lot of rumors and urban legends about this flag - some claim John Paul Jones flew it - but back then there was no "standard" flag used by any American forces - land or sea.

It is, though, the First Navy "jack". A jack is the flag that's flown at the bow jackstaff (duh!) when it port.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/First_Navy_Jack

[d90king]

No. There's a lot of rumors and urban legends about this flag - some claim John Paul Jones flew it - but back then there was no "standard" flag used by any American forces - land or sea.

It is, though, the First Navy "jack". A jack is the flag that's flown at the bow jackstaff (duh!) when it port.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/First_Navy_Jack


Awe geeze now you are going to make me study. :scared: I thought the first "jack" was a descendent of the Gadsden...... as the Gadsden was the first to represent the united Colonies.

Ben's chopped version breaks it into 8 pieces I think in the order they represented on the east coast(or something to that effect).

[Tom]

M1911.ORG - Where Your Education on the M1911 Pistol is Only the Beginning!

[Jeffrey]

So Wednesday evening, after my first day at the show, I drag myself back to my hotel absolutely bushed. I'm waiting at the elevator. It arrives, and a guy steps off. He looks vaguely familiar. He sees my convention badge, which has my name, and says, "Hi, Frank." I must look puzzled, because the next thing he says is, "NRA." I stammer something about being a life member and that he looks familiar, and I sort of recognize him and start thinking out load about who he may be. So he hands me his card -- Wayne LaPierre.

So I manage to top off my first day at the Safari Club convention by putting on a stunning display of incoherence in front of the EVP of the NRA and conclusively demonstrating that at least one life member of that organization is a blithering idiot.

DVC

Frank, I had a similar experience with a gentleman named General Colin Powell.

[Frank]

Frank, I had a similar experience with a gentleman named General Colin Powell.
I'll bet that's quite a story. You really ought to fill us in on the details now that you've whet our appetites.

DVC

[d90king]

I'll bet that's quite a story. You really ought to fill us in on the details now that you've whet our appetites.

DVC


I'm with Frank on this one! Details please.

[Immortal_Ben]

I can just see next months issue of Americas First Freedom having an article by Wayne about decorum of NRA membership at conventions. hahahahahahahahah