M E S November 2001 Cowboy Chronicle( Page 1 NovemberNovember 2001 2001 CowboyCowboy ChronicleChronicles e XPagePagee 11 t r e a c C o r a IT u ti n r n t g i IN le ~ o n s G e p c a t The Cowboy Chronicle. g io e n 9 0 The Monthly Journal of the Single Action Shooting Society ® ) Vol. 20 No. 3 © Single Action Shooting Society, Inc. March 2007 SASS CONVENTION 2006 . A Tradition Has Been Earned . By Chiz, SASS #392
ome folks say it takes five years See HIGHLIGHTS on page 73 Sof success to turn an event into a tradition, and if that’s the case, the rows all weekend accumulating arm- SASS Convention & Wild West fuls of goods for the Christmas tree Christmas has certainly earned its and coming year. stripes! After five years the kinks Adding to the excitement of the have been worked out. One must shoppers on vendors row were some listen to what the attendees want by of the best entertainers in the reading the survey cards and trying Cowboy World who sang, shot, and their suggestions. The program sashayed on the Old Frontier Stage must be changed a little each year all four days. New to SASS events while other parts are left in place, this year was Kip Calahan and Bill thus creating a tradition that brings Barwick, two extraordinary voices enjoyment, consistency, and variety who commanded attention each to all who attend. time they stepped on stage. Miss The 5th SASS Convention did all Devon Dawson did a splendid job of this and more. The “more” part was emceeing the stage and performing an indoor Cowboy Action Shooting™ with whimsical delight, accompa- Championship that not only enter- nied by fiddling phenomenon, Jess tained SASS members but also Meador. Dave Bourne also treated opened a window into the most the audiences with his superb piano exciting and fun shooting sport in The Ball continues to be the central showpiece of the SASS Convention. prowess while Miss Tabitha and the world. This Saturday evening extravaganza has become a tradition in its own right Mad Mountain Mike packed the The SASS Convention attracted sporting a new and unique theme each year. This year The Scarlet Ball seating area for their Victorian SASS members from around the encouraged everyone to wear a splash of scarlet on their evening attire. Ladies Underwear Expose and their During the Promenade, each couple was spotlighted for all to see, globe. Among this year’s attendees Fashion Show. Joe Bowman was and the ladies were given a rose as they marched between the columns. was our Italian compatriot, Ales- also on hand to wow the audiences, sandro Pietta, whose Pietta Fire- Sport-Chiappa Firearms, Alessandro looking the Convention Floor. By the as was Lafitte, Knight of the Green arms company is sponsoring the and Germany’s Arizona Tom took the time the reception started, the Cloth whose Old West magic left Days of Truth European Cowboy RO-I & RO-II Course in preparation Convention floor was filled with ven- some viewers scratching their Action Shooting™ Championships. for the big event that takes place dors and exhibitors with offerings to heads in delight. Bob and Becky Not only did he set up a booth at the August 19-26 in Brescia, Italy. fill every cowboy’s dream. There was Munden performed their great feats Convention, along with Italy’s Armi Attendance of the 2007 SASS everything from saddle to hat mak- of gun handling to the largest Convention surpassed all previous ers, knife to boot makers, chaps, crowds all weekend. SASS Cowboy Chronicle years with more than 1300 regis- chinks, and spurs. The largest selec- The anticipation for the indoor tered participants converging on the tion of Cowboy Action clothes in the shoot was high, and the West Lobby Las Vegas’ Riviera Hotel for the 5th world was on display for perusal and of the Riviera filled fast on In This Issue consecutive year. there were guns, guns, and more Thursday morning. Film crews for The Convention started Wednes- guns! Christmas time is a time for Jim Scoutten’s Shooting USA TV 58 TAYLOR’S UBERTI 1860 COLT day evening with a hospitality recep- vigorous shopping, and the crowds of Show were set and ready to record AND R&D CYLINDER tion for all early arriving Con- Conventioneers and the local rodeo the new event, and shooters were by Tuolumne Lawman ventioneers in the Skyboxes over- crowd swept through the vendor (Continued on page 71)
68 NEW ENGLAND REGIONAL by Coco Gratin
74 BORDERTOWN 2006 by Wander N. Star C h C EFENDING r o 76 D o w OLD FT. PARKER n b by Noah Gonnatellya i o 23255 La Palma Avenue c y 78 IDAHO STATE Yorba Linda, California 92887 CHAMPIONSHIP l www.sassnet.com by Mini Bullett e Page 2 Cowboy Chronicle March 2007
7302 E. Main St., Suite #7, Mesa, AZ 85207 800-596-0444 • (480) 218-1181 • FAX 888-528-5487 Email [email protected] www.wildwestmercantile.com March 2007 Cowboy Chronicle Page 3 Page 4 Cowboy Chronicle March 2007 March 2007 Cowboy Chronicle Page 5 The Cowboy CCONTENTSONTENTS Chronicle 1 ON THE COVER SASS Convention 2006 . . .
6 FROM THE EDITOR There’s No Light At The End Of The Tunnel . . . Yet Editorial Staff 8-14 NEWS Waddies Wanted For END of TRAIL 2007 . . . SASS Regional Shooting Program . . . Tex Editor-in-Chief A Scarlet Fantasy Of Costumes At 5th SASS Convention . . . Cat Ballou 16 CAT’S CORNER Editor What’s Goin’ On . . . Chiz 18 CHIZ BIZ Managing Editor Advertising Director 20-22 LETTERS Comments From SASS Members . . . Adobe Illustrator Layout & Design 24 POLITICAL Americans Must First Want Freedom . . . Mac Daddy Graphic Design 26-34 ARTICLES The Critical Gun Mass Law . . . Bits And Pieces . . . Old Jim . . . Donna Oakley Advertising Administrator 36-44 GUNS & GEAR Mine Car Drive-By Shooting . . . Getting Started . . . Contributing Writers Bob Boze Bell, Bob Crismon, Capt. George Baylor, Cinnamon Lucy, 46-50 MOUNTED First SASS Mounted Shooting Summit Blazes A New Trail For 2007 . . . Col. Dan, Cree Vicar Dave, Ellsworth T. Kincaid, Holy Terror, Ioway, Joe Fasthorse Harrill, 53-56 END of TRAIL 2007 . . . Juaquin Malone, Madd Mike, Mr. Quigley, Nubbins Colt, PROFILES My Life With Guns . . . Purdy Gear, Quick Cal, 57 Sierrita Slim, Swift Montana Smith, Tuolumne Lawman 58 REVIEWS-PRODUCTS Taylor’s & Co. Uberti 1860 Colt And .45 Colt Cylinder The Cowboy Chronicle is published by The Wild Bunch, Board of Directors of The Single Action Shooting 60 HISTORY This Month In History . . . Little Known Famous People . . . Society. For advertising information and rates, administrative and editorial 62 REVIEWS-BOOKS Old Guns & Whispering Ghosts . . . Barn In The U.S.A. . . . offices contact: Chronicle Administrator 23255 La Palma Avenue 64, 65 TRAIL MARKER Yorba Linda, California 92887 714-694-1800 FAX: 714-694-1813 66-82 ON THE RANGE What’s Goin’ On In Your Town? . . . email: [email protected] http://www.sassnet.com Nice SASS Collectibles . . . The Cowboy Chronicle (ISSN 15399877) 90-96 MERCANTILE is published Monthly by the Single Action Shooting Society, 23255 La Palma CLASSIFIED Avenue, Yorba Linda, California 92887. 97- Periodicals Postage is Paid at ANAHEIM, CA and additional mailing offices (USPS 101- SHOOTING SCHEDULES (MONTHLY)-(ANNUAL) #020-591). POSTMASTER: Send ad- dress changes to The Cowboy Chronicle, 23255 La Palma Avenue, Yorba Linda, 106 SASS TERRITORIAL GOVERNORS LIST California 92887. DISCLAIMER - The Single Action Shooting Society does not guarantee, 107 SASS MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION warranty or endorse any product or service advertised in this newspaper. Chiz goes great guns SASS® Trademarks The publisher also does not guarantee at the Shot Show with the safety or effectiveness of any prod- SASS®, Single Action Shooting Society®, a pair of gigantic uct or service illustrated. The distribution ® ® of some products/services may be ille- single actions. END of TRAIL , EOT , TM gal in some areas, and we do not The big guns shoot The Cowboy Chronicle , TM assume responsibility thereof. State and .45-70 and are COWBOY ACTION SHOOTING , local laws must be investigated by the designed to take down CASTM, purchaser prior to purchase or use or bigger things The World Championship of products/services. TM than steel targets. Cowboy Action Shooting , WARNING: Neither the author nor The The Super Six Bow-legged Cowboy Design, and the Cowboy Chronicle can accept any is called the Rocking Horse Design responsibility for accidents or diffe- ring results obtained using reloading 45/70 Bison Bull are all trademarks of and is made by data. Variation in handloading tech- Super Six, LTD The Single Action Shooting Society, Inc. niques, components, and firearms out of Any use or reproduction of these marks will make results vary. Have a compe- without the express written permission tent gunsmith check your firearms Fort Atkinson, before firing. Wisconsin. of SASS is strictly prohibited. Page 6 Cowboy Chronicle March 2007
THERE’S NO LIGHT AT THE END OF THE TUNNEL … YET By Tex, SASS #4
discussions regarding what kinds of convictions there should be no mini- Category doesn’t mean I think every- minimums should be set for our com- mums specified for SASS Cowboy one should have to shoot like this to petitive cowboy loads. Although I Action Shooting™ … and they’ve all play the game. Similarly, just because don’t regularly read the wire, main- been civil. It obviously makes a dif- someone is little, weak, or infirm does- ly because it’s difficult not to ference when the communication is n’t mean everyone should shoot lightly respond to inflammatory, incorrect, direct and personal rather than loaded .32s as well. We have a game and misguided information … and so statements posted in a public forum that has successfully included every- far I have no faith we can have open for all to see. I see this as progress! one from its inception, including folks and honest, yet civil, discussions Setting aside the innuendos and in wheel chairs, on crutches, shooters regarding disagreements, I’m not whining, there have been two distinct with one good arm, and even folks who Tex, SASS #4 oblivious to some of the threads on kinds of responses received to date. don’t see all that well. And, we should ~SASS Hall of Fame Inductee~ the Wire. The first offers constructive thoughts continue to do so. I was mildly distressed when one and observations regarding the situa- We didn’t have strict rules t was the best of times, it was of our members recently suggested a tion and then either advises against regarding minimum loads in the “Ithe worst of times …” I often write-in e-mail campaign to Tex. It’s any action or begins to suggest various beginning because not many folks think of this famous line from “The not that I object to getting e-mail rational minimums. The second set is actually shot significantly “sub- Tale of Two Cities” when reviewing from our members, but I really do self-focused and advocates what is par” loads in those days. Inte- the SASS Wire. The wire is a won- feel obligated to respond to them … I good for the writer. As Spock from restingly, I was one of those that derful place to air ideas, argue for simply cannot respond individually Star Trek often said, “the needs of the did! It’s a long story, but after wor- points of view, and dispense infor- to a large volume of messages. Rest many far outweigh the needs of the rying for several hours over a pistol mation. It’s also a place of innuendo, assured, they’re dutifully forwarded few …” and reflects my sentiments as knockdown at an early END of clicking of tongues, shaking of to me and get read. Interestingly, well. Just because I shoot heavy loa- TRAIL, I vowed to never have that heads, and rolling of eyes … none of several notes received recently are ded blackpowder .45s and long for a problem again, and changed to a which is helpful in the debates and clearly heart-felt and reflect strong Senior–Classic–Frontier–Gunfighter (Continued on page 67) March 2007 Cowboy Chronicle Page 7 Page 8 Cowboy Chronicle March 2007
WADDIES WANTED FOR e e SHOWDOWN AT RAWHIDE END of TRAIL 2007 FREE Fast Draw Competition By Drago, SASS Regulator #2995 Phoenix, AZ – Rawhide at Wild Draw.com. Entry in the contest n the 1800’s, Waddies spent the making END of TRAIL a huge suc- Horse Pass announced “Show and wax bullet ammo is FREE. Imajority of the time outdoors, cess. Waddies are more than just Down at Rawhide” will be held Valuable prizes will be awarded. subject to scorching heat, choking the volunteer hands. We have on Saturday, April 14, 2007. Rawhide visitor admission to dust and dirt, torrential rains, and become a family with many return- Over 100 men, women, and ShowDown is FREE. cold weather. For long periods of ing for more than 10 years now. It’s youngsters dressed in western Celebrating 36 years of pro- time their wide-brimmed hat, not the ‘Dollar a Day’ or the ‘Found’ period costumes will compete viding quality 1880’s style family duster, or slicker were their only (food) that keeps them coming using real six-shooters firing entertainment, this authentic shelter. They worked long, hard back, it’s the friendship and enjoy- safe, wax bullets. It is estimated frontier town is Arizona’s largest hours for little pay, doing whatev- ment of contributing to the success over 30,000 competitors compris- western-themed attraction. er was necessary. of END of TRAIL. We have become ing 500 clubs throughout the Rawhide at Wild Horse Pass in Just like the large ranches and the backbone of the majority of the USA actively participate in the Gila River Indian cattle companies of the era, END set-up and labor for END of TRAIL, Cowboy Action Shooting events. Community is located just south of TRAIL depends upon the working as many as 10, 12, even a Wax bullets fired at metal tar- of Phoenix and the Phoenix Sky Waddies to get the work done. couple of 16 hour days. gets in the Rodeo Arena of Harbor International Airport. Parking lot duty can be as dusty There were approximately 30 Rawhide presents a safe, excit- Parking and admission to and dirty as riding drag on a trail first-time Waddies last year, and ing, and entertaining show for Rawhide Town is FREE. Raw- drive, and every bit as exciting most described their experience as, family members of all ages. hide is open 364 days of the year. with a few “stray cars” to round “It was freezing cold, wet, long days. Interested competitors may For more information, call (480) up. Working the arena was just as It was hard work, and … it was enter the ShowDown event 502-5600 or log on to www. exhilarating and perilous as it was great! Count me in for next year.” online at www.ShowDownFast Rawhide.com. working the original Buffalo Bill Waddie assignments include Wild West Show with all the supporting Entertainment, Bars We are receiving sign-ups daily of its success, visit the SASS web- Waddies doing an excellent job. and Hospitality, Parking and for END of TRAIL 2007, and only a site; END of TRAIL 2007 – Classic Last year approximately 90 Transportation, Mounted Arena, few more will be accepted. If you Gunfighters to sign up ‘ON LINE,’ Waddies signed on to participate in Decorations, and Prizes/Awards. are interested in being a BIG part and we’ll see you there! March 2007 Cowboy Chronicle Page 9 Page 10 Cowboy Chronicle March 2007
THE GREAT SANTA FE e e TRAIL HORSE RACE THE JOHN WAYNE ENDURANCE RIDE SHOOT By Rowdy Fulcher, SASS #2452 By Kansas Jack, SASS #8084 Waverly, KY – The Crab Orchard you can stoke it. We don’t give an he Great Santa Fe Trail Horse every 8 to 10 miles but completing Cowboys held their annual John Overall because the Repeaters TRace Endurance Ride is sched- the ride in Independence, Missouri Wayne Shoot in August ‘06. We have the upper hand. So, there uled for the first two weeks of will carry mail. have been holding this event for are only two categories - double September 2007! If any of this sounds interesting the last three years. Now I know barrels and repeating shotguns. The ride will start in Santa Fe, and you would like to know about you are wondering, what is a This year is the 100 birthday New Mexico and go to at least this event well in advance, contact John Wayne shoot? of The Duke, and I wonder what Gardner, Kansas. Getting into In- John Curry or Rob Phillips for A John Wayne Shoot is a little he would think about Cowboy dependence, Missouri, our original more details. different because you only use one Action Shooting™. I think he intention, is a major problem for a * * * * pistol, your rifle, and your shot- would be proud of all our accom- number of riders because of auto- gun, which determines your cate- plishments, big and small. John Curry (913) 390-5808 mobile traffic, bridges, inter- gory. If you shoot a double barrel, The Crab Orchard Cowboys Rob Phillips (785) 218-3265 changes, and so on. We have now that is your category. The big dif- will hold their 2007 John Wayne Our web site is: partnered with the United States ference is if you shoot a ‘97 or ’87, Shoot on June 9th. Post Office and the Bureau of Land www.sfthorserace.com Management to assist them in advertising their products and services. This alliance just oc- ADVERTISING INFORMATION curred, so it is not yet listed on our website. As a result, we will have a ASK FOR Santa Fe Trail Pony Express Ride over the same route at the same ~ DONNA ~ (EXT. 118) time. Riders changing horses March 2007 Cowboy Chronicle Page 11 Page 12 Cowboy Chronicle March 2007
REGIMIENTO DE CABALLERÍA DE LAS FUERZAS ARMADAS DE EL SALVADOR US and Canadian Equestrians to Participate in Salvadoran Mounted Cavalry Maneuvers
an Salvador, 7 January 2007 – Participants will first arrive on Salvador on the trail for up to ten regiment while ‘on patrol’ simulating SOver 30 civilian trail riders from Thursday, January 11 and enjoy a hours both days riding through trop- a military maneuver.” the US, Canada, and El Salvador day touring San Salvador’s military ical lowlands to the Lempa River Add to the fact that Salvadorans, will join the officers of El Salvador’s museum and the famous archeologi- where they will set up camp for the long known for their warm hospital- Regiment of Cavalry for a two-day cal ruins of La Joya del Ceren and night in the “military manner” with ity and courtesy, are pleased to simulated military maneuver at the San Andres. Riders will be honored marching orders given by the regi- extend a cordial welcome to all invitation of Colonel Victor Bolaños, at a luncheon hosted by the Minister ment’s bugler. Returning to regi- “Norteamericanos” to a country that Commanding Officer of the Regi- of Defense and his staff. mental headquarters, riders will maintains a close and friendly rela- ment of Cavalry and Minister of Headquartered at the Radisson attend an Awards and Recognition tionship with the U.S. National Defense, Division General, Plaza Hotel, most of the riders have Dinner where they will be named For additional information, Otto Romero, on Saturday and opted to arrive early and stay after Honorary Members of El Salvador’s please contact Harvey Smith at: Sunday, January 12-13, 2007. the ride to tour El Salvador’s popu- Regimiento de Caballería. [email protected] or 011 The mounted group will spend lar Ruta de las Flores, the historic Ride Director and Honorary (503) 2243-8852 (in El Salvador) for up to ten hours each day on the trail town of Suchitoto and other interest- Consul of El Salvador, Harvey further information. leading from regimental headquar- ing locations popular with foreign Smith, a veteran of cross-country (This news item arrived far too late to ters in San Salvador through the visitors. rides in Mexico, South America, and provide advanced notice to our eques- tropical lowlands to the Lempa Designed to simulate an actual the U.S. promises “this ride to be trian enthusiasts, but if this looks River, stopping for short breaks to cavalry maneuver, riders will join much more than just a guided eques- interesting consider contacting Mr. rest the horses and enjoy lunch on the officers and men of the trian event. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime Smith to see if there are other offerings the trail. Regimiento de Caballería de El opportunity to join an active cavalry planned for the future … editor.) March 2007 Cowboy Chronicle Page 13 Page 14 Cowboy Chronicle March 2007
SASS REGIONAL SHOOTING PROGRAM By Coyote Calhoun, SASS #201
ongratulations to all the SASS both. In reality, this CSanctioned Regionals of 2006! only affects shooters These matches are the cornerstone with a chance to win the of the SASS National Shooting Men’s or Women’s over- Program, and they continue to get all Regional title. Once better and better. This year there again, this only concerns are a few changes in the SASS the Regional champion Regional Program. First of all, the winner and not the over- Southwest Territories Regional all match winner. No will be changing its name to the other shooter is affected Four Corners Regional. Having a by this change. Southwest Regional and a The way it works is a Southwest Territories Regional shooter from Colorado or was confusing, not only to the Utah will be eligible to SASS Office, but to our sponsors win the Regional cham- and shooters alike. With the name pionship in the first change we are designating two Regional in which they states as “swing states” or shared shoot. If a shooter in- states between the Four Corners tends to shoot both the Region and the High Plains High Plains Regional Region. These states are Colorado and the Four Corners and Utah. This means a shooter Regional and would like from either of these two states may to be eligible to win the choose to be eligible to win the Regional championship Regional championship at either at the Four Corners the High Plains Regional or the Regional and not the Four Corners Regional, but not (Continued on next page) March 2007 Cowboy Chronicle Page 15 (Continued from previous page) Shooters may do so by contacting the High Plains Regional, then they SASS office or Coyote Calhoun at must declare their intentions prior to least two days prior to the match. shooting the High Plains Regional. Now that we have cleared that Regional Dates for 2007 SASS Northeast Regional SASS Southeast Regional Mason Dixon Stampede The Shootout at Mule Camp Thurmont, MD Covington, GA October 4-7, 2007 May 25-29, 2006 – Memorial Day www.tcandsc.org/tcscCowboyMatches Weekend MasonDixonStampede.htm www.mulecamp.com SASS Western Regional SASS High Plains Regional Last Stand at Chimney Rock Hell on Wheels Apple Valley, CA Cheyenne, WY October 11-14, 2007 July 5-8, 2007 www.rrbar.com www.cheyenneregulators.com SASS Southwest Regional New England Regional Showdown at Ormsby’s Ranch The Great Nor’easter Cleburne, TX Pelhan, NH October 11-14, 2007 July 25-29, 2007 www.comanchevalley.org/ www.thegreatnoreaster.com homeframesnew.htm out of the way, after all our efforts we match is “Rattlesnake Gulch Round- could not convince shooters “Smoke up.” The Rattlesnake Gulch Rangers SASS Midwest Regional International Regionals in the Valley” was not a blackpowder is the host club, and Crisco, SASS Guns of August SASS Canadian Regional only match, so we have renamed #3621, and Ricochet Robbie, SASS Middletown, OH Championship “Smoke in the Valley” the “Outlaw #8775, are leading the charge. The August 9-12, 2007 Reckoning at Red Mountain Pass Trail.” The dates for “Outlaw Trail” match is getting great support from www.bigirons.com Mission, BC are August 16th – 19th. Also, the the surrounding clubs, and the dates SASS Northwest Regional August 31 – September 2, 2007 name of the Southwest Regional will are September 20st – 23rd, 2007. www.missionrodandgun.com/ Rattlesnake Gulch Roundup be changing from “Showdown at Speaking of the Northwest Regional, Benton City, WA SASS Australian Regional Buck Creek” to “Showdown at I would also like to give a big THANK September 20-23, 2006 Championship Ormsby’s Ranch.” This name re- YOU to the Horse Ridge Pistoleros for www.tcsa.info/cowboys.htm Chisholm Trail flects a change made several years a great job hosting the Northwest ago with the move to the Ormsby Regional for the past three years. SASS Four Corners Regional Millmerran, AU September 25-30, 2007 Ranch. The dates of the match this The Regional Program promises Outlaw Trail year are October 10th – 14th. another banner year for 2007. If you Founders Ranch - Edgewood, NM http://sasa.qir.com.au/ Also, this year the Northwest have not visited a Regional Match August 16-19, 2007 Regional is moving from Bend Oregon lately, you should do so, you don’t www.sassnet.com/smoke/index.php to Benton City, WA. The name of the know what you’re missing! Page 16 Cowboy Chronicle March 2007
A SCARLET FANTASY OF COSTUMES AT THE 5TH SASS CONVENTION AND . WILD WEST CHRISTMAS . By Cat Ballou, SASS #55
trees in the SASS Registration area and Top of the Riv, “Academy Awards” of SASS Costuming—and this year and SASS members and costume contest participants the costumes were spectacular, as always. sported scarlet on their ballgowns and evening wear at Friday night was the Saloon Dance. Here’s where Cat Ballou, SASS #55 the Scarlet Ball. And, of course, scarlet is the color asso- we can dress as Classic Cowgirls or Cowboys or B- ~SASS Hall of Fame Inductee~ ciated with Santa Claus and Christmas festivities. Western film characters and kick up our heels to the During Saturday night’s Costume Promenade, each music of New Mexico’s Syd Masters and the Swing carlet was certainly the lady was presented with a scarlet rose from Lady Riders. This year was a first. Instead of roving judges, color of the moment at the Stetson and Ellsworth T. Kincaid as she walked under we had a seated panel of judges to whom costume con- S Las Vegas SASS Conven- an archway decorated in scarlet—a very elegant touch testants made their presentations and showed off their tion! Beautiful scarlet poinsettias to a very elegant award’s ceremony and ball. western wares. Thanks to our judges, Mad Mountain adorned the lobby and reception The SASS Convention is the epitome of costuming. Mike, Blue Eyes, and Deadwood Jake for a great job. areas of the Riviera Hotel and After all, we’re not out in the dirt, dust, rain, or snow, so Wildcat Kate wowed the judges and audience with Casino. Scarlet and gold trim and we can wear our finest clothes for all to admire. I like to her portrayal of the Green Fairy (or nightmare) of ornaments hung on the Christmas say the costume contests at the Convention are the Absinthe, the very dangerous liqueur of the late nine- teenth century. She even carried an absinthe bottle whose label sported the “Green Fairy.” Drinking too much of that stuff could kill you, or at the very least, Best Dressed Winners make you hallucinate and see her appear! A favorite outfit of mine was worn by the ever dap- per, Bat Masterson. He came as Country Western leg- end, Hank Williams, accompanied by a “showgirl” (Carolina Belle Pretty Mean Shawme) he “picked up” along the way. I didn’t check to see if there was a 1951 white Cadillac parked out in front of the hotel, however. Saturday night at the Top of the Riv, Best Dressed costume contestants paraded their finery and made presentations to judges Mad Mountain Mike, Autum Rose, Deadwood Jake, and Janet Anderson from Alter Years. Each year brings a new and fabulous bevy of cos- tumes, so it is no easy task determining the winners. My heart always flutters when the Military Category contestants appear. I just love those guys in uniforms! First place Lt. Henry O. Flipper was resplen- Best Dressed Couples – (l-r) 1st place, Deadly Nurse (Continued on next page) and Not Very Slik, 2nd place, Black Jack Annie and Best Dressed Men – (l-r) 1st place, Colonel Richard I. Dodge, 3rd place, Red Robin and Take Aim, 2nd place, W. A. Ward, Virginia Ranger. 3rd place, Comstock Cody.
Best Dressed Military – (l-r) 1st place, Lt. Henry O. Flipper, Best Scarlet Fantasy – 2nd place, Captain George Baylor, (l-r) 1st place, Mercy Rose McCain, Best Dressed Ladies – (l-r) 1st place, Marshal’s Lady, 3rd place, US Scout 2nd place, Calamity Rose, 3rd place, Solomon Star. 2nd place, Sloan Easy, 3rd place, Dixie Bell. March 2007 Cowboy Chronicle Page 17 Saloon Night Winners
Wildcat Kate portrays the Absinthe Green Fairy or is it Monster? If you imbibe too frequently of her forbidden and outlawed liqueur, she B-Western Ladies winners – visits you in your dreams, or B-Western Men – (l-r) (l-r) 1st place, Calico Meg, is it nightmares? A truly 1st place, Citizen Kane, and 2nd place, Miss Devon, Classic Cowboy winners – (l-r) 1st place, Ten High, original costume! 3rd place, Easy Lee. 3rd place, Birdie Walker. 2nd place, US Scout, 3rd place, Ranger Ranz.
SASS CONVENTION 2006 COSTUME CONTESTS RESULTS
B-WESTERN COWGIRL 1 Calico Meg, SASS #8317 2 Miss Devon, SASS #49096 3 Birdie Walker, SASS #42749 B-WESTERN COWBOY 1 Citizen Kane, SASS #11717 2 Bat Masterson, SASS #2919 3 Easy Lee, SASS #9753 CLASSIC COWGIRL 1 Wildcat Kate, SASS #7873 2 Lilly Whitefeather, SASS #54426 3 Texas Flower, SASS #43753 CLASSIC COWBOY 1 Ten High, SASS #56149 2 US Scout, SASS #15690 3 Ranger Ranz, SASS #49364
BEST DRESSED LADIES 1 Marshal’s Lady, SASS #24623 2 Sloan Easy, SASS #28129 3 Dixie Bell, SASS #5366 GENTLEMEN 1 Take Aim, SASS #39434 2 W. A. Ward, SASS #11723 3 Comstock Cody, SASS #68483 COUPLES 1 Deadly Nurse, SASS #65064 Not Very Slik, SASS #65065 2 Black Jack Annie, SASS #47168 2nd place B-Western Man, Colonel Richard I. Dodge, Bat Masterson, evoking the SASS #1750 image of Country Western 3 Red Robin, SASS #56560 Classic Cowgirl winners – (l-r) 1st place, Wildcat Kate, singing legend Virginia Ranger, SASS #56559 2nd place, Lilly Whitefeather, 3rd place, Texas Flower. Hank Willliams. MILITARY his 1874-75 Marine Corps dress 1 Lt. Henry O. Flipper, (Continued from previous page) costume winners, and thank you SASS #72429 dent in his 1870’s dress uniform por- blues. Semper Fi, y’all! to all the costume participants. 2 Captain George Baylor, traying Lt. Henry Flipper, the first The SASS Academy Awards of You are all winners. SASS #24287 black American graduate of West Costuming would not be possible Next year’s theme is the 3 US Scout, SASS #15690 Point and a member of the famous without the continuing support of our Cattle Barons’ Ball. I can hardly SCARLET FANTASY Tenth Cavalry, the Buffalo Soldiers. sponsor Wild West Mercantile, C. S. wait to see what those costumes 1 Mercy Rose McCain, Even though I am a Yankee (born in Fly and Claudia Feather, proprietors. will be like. And now I’ve got to SASS #60715 Pennsylvania), I was raised in the Thank you so much for your support contact Miss Tabitha for another 2 Calamity Rose, SASS #69121 South (Texas), and was most moved during the past five years and thank one of her fabulous creations— 3 Solomon Star, SASS #208 you for all you do to promote costum- JUDGES HONORABLE MENTION by Capt. George Baylor as General perhaps a Cattle Baron’s Diva? Ruby Lee, SASS #65935 Robert E. Lee. Just as I was hum- ing in our sport. See you at the SASS Convention ming “Dixie,” up stepped US Scout in Finally congratulations to all the in 2007!
See more Scarlet Fantasy of Costumes HIGHLIGHTS on page 51 Page 18 Cowboy Chronicle March 2007
provided each affiliated club the Their new web site www.buffaloblanks.com is quite brand new Mounted Shoo- impressive. Other blank manufacturers who wish to be ting Premier Scoring SASS endorsed should send 100 blanks for testing to program just complet- the SASS Clubs Administrator. ed by Cee Dee Tom. The program is John Wayne Commemoratives without question the I recently attended the Shot Show where SASS most comprehensive exhibits annually. Among the most notable items ever created for exhibited were a series of new products dedicated Mounted Shooting to John Wayne’s 100th birthday. Done in associa- and includes power- tion with the John Wayne estate, three items were ful reports and regis- in the forefront. Winchester’s John Wayne Custom tration modules to make Grade Model 1892 rifles come with gold-tone embell- scoring easy and accurate. ishments on a highly polished blued finish with a large Mounted clubs interested loop lever. The rifle also features scroll engraving of the in affiliating should contact Duke holding his trademark ‘92 as well as his signature on Aim Me Home at the SASS office for the barrel. Only 1000 of the commemorative rifles will be offered. Chiz, SASS #392 a starter package. Winchester Ammunition and John Wayne have come together with a lim- SASS Marketing Director Also new on the Mounted Shoo- ited edition collector’s set of ammunition offered in three classic calibers—.44- ting scene is the first SASS endorsed 40 Winchester, .45 Colt, and .30-30 Winchester—to commemorate 100 years Mounted Shooting blank ammunition provider. Buffalo of the Duke. The cartridges are designed with customized head stamps and The SASS Mounted Shooting Blanks run by Nuevo Mike in come in specially designed embossed packaging. program is in full swing, and the Moriarty, New Mexico has developed U.S. Firearms will honor the Duke with the John Wayne Red River D Web site has been updated with new the first state of the art shooting Classic that includes a USFA Single Action chambered in .45 Colt with aged information. The new SASS Moun- blanks that do not split and are easi- bluing and mellow ivory stocks and Wayne’s Red River D brand on the shovel ted Shooting Club Binder has been ly removed from the cylinder after head and gun frame. Serial numbered XXRR and RRXX, a numbered pair is completed and sent to all SASS being fired. Mounted Shooting possible. Each gun comes complete with a John Wayne Cartridge Belt and Mounted affiliated clubs. The binder blanks have come a long way over the Holster. The special production is limited and deliveries begin in March, 2007. contains a wide variety of informa- past several years, and Buffalo USFA’s Doug Donnelly has done a great job on these revolvers. After holding tion to help clubs grow and be more Blanks has combined all those tech- them in my hands, I knew I just had to have a set! organized. Many years of tried and niques to create this new product. To see these items, visit the respective web sites: true promotional advice is included, Buffalo Blanks are both CMSA and www.winchesterguns.com, as are tools for scoring, budgeting, MSA Certified, and will be use for www.winchester.com, and and running a match. SASS has also Winter Range and END of TRAIL. . www.usfirearms.com . March 2007 Cowboy Chronicle Page 19 Page 20 Cowboy Chronicle March 2007
POWER FACTORS— lem with this thinking is those loads give them an advantage. Knockdowns down. No allowances for cap and ball or are actually less competitive. Read are generally smaller than the SASS rec- the other categories will be considered for AN IDEA WHOSE many times on the wire how competi- ommended target size, and a top shooter knockdowns. TIME HAS COME? tors are the driving force behind the is more likely to hit it than the run of the Enforcement should be done on a per piff-tink. That is simply not true. The mill shooter. shooter basis. In other words, no shooter Here are the reasons I think we need top shooters in this game need the At first glance, my opinion is to set a will be required to prove his PF unless a minimum for state level matches and feedback from recoil to be consistent. PF of 75 for most of the categories. This challenged by the Posse’s RO, Match above. 4. We are becoming a laughing stock to allows the 77-grain bullet in a .32 to be Director, or his designated officials. If a 1. Extremely light loads cause a safety the other shooting sports. Many could legal at 975 fps. A 125-grain bullet at 600 fellow posse member is suspicious of problem. When loading down to the care less about what they think of us. fps is a 75 PF. Both of these combina- someone’s loads, they must plead their bare minimum to get a bullet out of a Again, I do care. We draw a large per- tions sounds like a real gun going off and case to the RO of the posse. Loads will be barrel, mistakes are more likely to centage of our new membership from hits the steel with some authority. If tested only if the RO deems it necessary. happen in the loading room. Please these other shooting games. We need someone with a 45 Colt wants to compete If testing is necessary, the RO should ask do a search for “Birdshot” and read his their respect. for the top spot, they can load a 160-grain for six rounds from the shooter at the post on the subject. With absolutely 5. Over the last few years, a division bullet at 470 fps and have the same loading table on the last stage of the day. no recoil, a person is more likely to among our own membership is widen- power factor and recoil. The 45 Colt Testing shoot another bullet behind a squib. ing. Think some of this is fueled by crowd could no longer complain about the One bullet should be pulled and The slightest amount of feedback from these excessively light loads. unfair advantage of the smaller calibers. weighed. The other five will be shot recoil should keep a person informed 6. Light loads are hard for the counters A lower PF can be set for the Junior, through a chronograph with the person’s when there is a problem. to distinguish between a hit and a Senior, Silver Senior, Elder Statesmen, personal pistol they used in the match. 2. This is a shooting game, and I think miss. and Grand Dames categories. I think Of the five shots, the high and low should these piff-tink loads are keeping many I never thought it was fair to com- this PF should be set at 65. It’s low be thrown out and the other three used to people away from joining in the first plain about a problem unless I could offer enough to address concerns of too much determine an average fps. Power Factor place. Several writers are starting to a possible solution. recoil, but still sounds like a real gun will be determined by (bullet weight x turn their backs on SASS because of My possible solution going off. This would be a 100-grain bul- velocity divided by 1000). Differences in them. Negative articles written on The problem is where we draw the let at 650 FPS. chronographs, temperature, altitude, and this subject in national magazines line. To me, a minimum velocity is im- The blackpowder categories should be various other things can affect bullet will have a major impact on the practical due to different calibers and bul- exempt from the power factor rule since velocity. Therefore, a 10% allowance growth of our game. Many could care let weights. What we need is a minimum they already have a smoke minimum. should be made for the test. If a person’s less what MV or JT thinks about us. I power factor (PF). Since this sport does The knockdown rule should also be ammo tested within 90% of the PF for do care! not have any money involved with win- changed at the same time to reflect the their category, it would be a no call. 3. Don’t think the Wild Bunch envi- ning, 99.9% of the shooters will comply. new minimum. Instead of a 158-grain Penalty sioned 77-90 grain bullets being shot Having all knockdowns is cost pro- bullet at 850 fps, the new rule could read If determined the rounds do not meet at 300 fps. Nobody did until the last hibitive for most clubs and not fair to the a 125-grain bullet at 600 fps or a PF of the base line PF for the category, a ten sec- few years. This is done for one reason young or impaired shooters. It will not 75. The categories with the 65 PF will ond penalty per stage shot with the illegal only. A competitive edge! The prob- affect the top shooters other than maybe need to increase their load to knock these (Continued on next page) March 2007 Cowboy Chronicle Page 21 (Continued from previous page) variant with all the “bolt on” lasers and their revolvers and some masks to build MY TWO CENTS ammo should be added to their time. such, so most aren’t into anything older up interest. But, am I way off in left Whatever happens, if anything, it than WW-II era firearms. There are, field? Would people really want to shoot WORTH would be my hope the Wild Bunch will however, a few Japanese companies that against each other in this way as a side By Lester Moore make the decision and not subject the make airsoft revolvers. They’re pretty event at a SASS match? I’m sure any SASS Life/Regulator #9736, membership to all the negative debates. accurate copies. They require a special safety factor concerns could be overcome Territorial Governor The wire is a great place for information, compressed gas to operate and fire a 6 by requiring the importation orange tips I’ve been involved in the sport of but it also drives potential new members mm plastic projectile that weighs to remain on all airsoft guns used at such Cowboy Action Shooting™ for 11 years. I away from the sport with the endless between .20 and .28 grams. They shoot a venue. It would solve the arguments basically gave up golf for the sport. I trad- negative posts. If the Wild Bunch is between 250 and 400 fps, which isn’t over who’s really the best fast draw, ed in my clubs for rifles and my putters for nearly as painful as a paintball when that’s for dang sure! interested in putting a committee togeth- pistols. In all the years I’ve been involved er to study a new minimum, I would be you’re hit with one. One company makes … I will stand by my assessment— with Cowboy Action Shooting™ there has happy to serve on it. several different types of Western there may be a Cowboy Action Shooting™ been one thing I have learned over and over, Long Hunter revolvers, but they’re extremely pricey type group in airsoft’s future. They again and again. There are three things SASS #20389 and difficult to obtain. Some cost more already do it in Japan and Hong Kong, so that people do to win this sport. Those Hartley, TX than the real revolvers they copy! I know it’s just a matter of time before it’s three things are 1) Practice, 2) Practice, and (While SASS has avoided power factors An Orange tip is required by federal done here. finally... you guessed it, 3) Practice. like the plague for years, their time may law for importation, but it can legally be Regarding an airsoft and a Cowboy It doesn’t make a hill of beans have come. Long Hunter’s approach removed by the buyer, if desired. One Action event, they would have to be two whether you shoot .32’s, .45’s, or cap and doesn’t really sound so onerous. As he particular model has a metal cylinder separate events, not linked and with no ball, or if you slick up your guns, or short points out, the question is where to draw and frame, but the barrel is plastic (it’s real firearms allowed in any airsoft stroke your rifles. It still takes practice to the line, do we need more than one line, an outer barrel anyway, the real barrel is venue, which is already the norm for air- use them properly. It doesn’t matter how much forgiveness is appropriate, and a brass tube inside). I’ve shot one of soft sports. Admittedly, it is not for whether the targets are close, big, or far what is the penalty for non-compliance. these, and it’s almost as fun as shooting everyone, but as a tactical sport it has away. I’ve heard people complain the Like Long Hunter, I believe once a stan- with real bullets (but without the kick grown in popularity to being the #1 shooting scenarios were too complicated, dard is announced, 99.9% of the competi- and noise). Some airsoft companies also action pursuit sport in the US this past or, not complicated enough. What it boils tors will self-police and happily comply make shotguns that operate on com- year, and has grown enough where I can down to is this: the men and women who … editor-in-chief.) pressed gasses. There are at least two make a living at it, so I know it will slow- win the matches are the ones who practice airsoft Model 1897 shotguns out there ly expand to other genres. and shoot a thousand rounds a week just currently. Sadly, there are no current We are working on 10-meter matches practicing. And the losers ... well, they’re AIRSOFT COWBOY high-end airsoft single-shot rifles other with some of the available sniper rifle just losers. Someone has to win and some- than modern bolt-action “sniper” models. replicas. Already IPSC and IDPA matches one has to lose. This is a fact of life. If you ACTION SHOOTING™ I have a feeling this could explode are held using airsoft, and to make mat- want to be a winner, you don’t get there by Reported by Arizona Tom, onto the Cowboy Action Shooting™ ters really entertaining, there are three- complaining. You get there by hard work. SASS #30872 scene, allowing folks to actually quick gun competitions on the rise as well! So stop complaining, and get to work. draw against one another. All you’d need The following (edited) information is a facemask or good goggles. is an excerpt from the SASS wire. Otherwise, you’d be able to use every- It represents the ultimate in “low recoil” thing you use at a SASS match. I know For AD Rates gun games, including Cowboy Action. of a business near me that runs modern- Is this what we really want? themed airsoft events, and I’m tempted ~ DONNA ~ … most of the folks into airsoft are to have them show up at a local Cowboy (EXT. 118) pretty much into the newest M-4 or AK Action Shooting™ meet with some of Page 22 Cowboy Chronicle March 2007
WHY NOT USE ily sliding back to old standards. Herein knockdown that won’t go down is the dis- BENEFIT OF lies the real dilemma—stage and target advantage with which shooters using .32- MINIMUM design greatly influence the type of cal- caliber equipment must contend. I’m a bit THE DOUBT? FACTORY LOADS? iber and power factor used. Using stage shocked if Cowboy Action Shooting™ is design to encourage shooters to use heav- the only activity in which .32 caliber After anxiously awaiting the new ier loads requires clubs buy new steel, firearms have a role! Cowboy Chronicle (January 2007) and excit- It is difficult for .32 caliber shooters which is an unreasonably expensive But, the points you raise are valid … edly reading the same, I was stopped to meet a .38 Special minimum power fac- proposition. To punish shooters who what SASS (and that means all of us) dead in my tracks by the article on pg. 42, tor. If the intent is to eliminate 32 cal- choose a small, light caliber because of an must decide is what do we want our game “RANGE OFFICERS ROUNDUP,” by ibers, I think it’s too late. There are a underlying need to hit everything you to be like? If we were all shooting “just for Virgil Earp, SASS Life/Regulator #4299. fast growing number of .32 caliber shoot- point at, is unreasonable in and of itself. fun,” it wouldn’t make any difference what “The question sometimes arises as to ers in Cowboy Action Shooting™ and If the Wild Bunch is calling for a loads a cowboy used. However, we are how to adjudicate the miss count when having them essentially toss their return to factory loads, then it should be shooting in a competition. We keep score, three spotters do not agree on the num- firearms in the can because they have lit- the minimum factory load equivalent for there are winners, and winners receive ber of misses. Firstly let us assume the tle value for anything else would do great any caliber used and not use the .38 as special recognition and often special count is 2, 2, 1. In this instance the call harm to the sport and overall “morale.” the only standard. Also, set a minimum “deals” from sponsors and vendors. The would be two misses. That is, majority The pendulum has swung toward bullet weight such as .32s—90 grain or competition is fierce. To be a winner one rule, or two out of three break the tie. smaller calibers and lighter loads prima- above at factory velocity; .32-20—115 gr; MUST shoot light loads. So, the question Another more difficult situation is where rily as a result of stage and target design, .38 Special—125 gr (using full size .38 we must answer is do we want our premier the spotters arrive at a 3, 2, 1 count. The which begs the question, do you really cases); .44-40—165 gr; .44 Special—200 shooters, who represent all of us, shooting solution, however, is still a simple one. need to shoot full power or factory equiv- gr; .45 LC—200 gr (using full length Long small caliber firearms that have no recoil? The shooter in this instance is accorded alent loads to make big steel targets ring Colt cases). Do we want a game that is little better two misses. The score recorded, I would at 5-10 yards??? Is this the “reality” in This allows the shooter to choose than a wax bullet match? Why not modi- then be changing my spotters immediate- our “fantasy??” The big, close-up targets their caliber and eliminates having to fy the rules and allow .22s? What image ly as obviously not enough attention is were created primarily so shooters could change stage and target design. It sorta do we want to project and what game do being paid to the task at hand.” have fun and happily hit their targets returns to using factory type loads with- we want to play? Once we answer these What is it, “majority rule” or are we with minimum skill. Once the smarter out the restriction of only .38s as the min- questions, we can decide how to modify the “averaging” the misses? Both ways are shooters figured out you could shoot imum caliber. current rules and practices to achieve that wrong and this is an attitude that needs faster with less shot to shot recovery China Camp, SASS #649 goal … editor-in-chief.) to be changed in our sport. I’ve seen this time, out came the lighter loads. Tex, Orange, CA at monthly shoots and State Cham- although you and I know we can and (There is no intention to eliminate .32 cal- pionships. In the paragraph before this have won END of TRAILs and Winter iber firearms from Cowboy Action For AD Rates Virgil says, “Exactly what does benefit of Ranges with factory type loads in the Shooting™. They’ve always been SASS- the doubt to the shooter mean?” It means early years, there has been too much legal and continue to be. However, just that any dispute is resolved in favor of change in the way stages and targets are because a firearm is legal doesn’t neces- ~ DONNA ~ the shooter. It doesn’t sound to me like (EXT. 118) designed that would prevent us from eas- sarily make it competitive. An occasional (Continued on next page) March 2007 Cowboy Chronicle Page 23 (Continued from previous page) Winchester brought out by Taylor’s & that’s what’s happening. Comp’ny thet I done bought used from a Then we get this tip: fella, ‘bout third or mebe fourth hand. “Rule #2, observe the area around Why, I reckon it’s plumb old enough targets in an effort to identify target t’vote. Now it worked jus’ fine fer th’ nicks and edge hits.” whole season thet’s jus’ ended. It’d hit THAT’S why you have three spotters what ever I’d shoot at, fer away as 225 in different locations. Due to gunsmoke, measured paces. It was a mighty fine dust, glare of the sun, or a myriad of shootin’ rifle. No brag, jist fact. other reasons, not all spotters see each Then, somethin’ happened. On the hit the same way. That does not auto- last stage of the last shoot th’ ol’ gal give matically mean they are not paying up. Jammed up s’bad warn’t nuthin attention. Spread your spotters out so anyone could do with it. One a’my they have a better chance of observing pards, Ol’ Campaigner, is th’ best dan- the hits/misses. When you get right ged gunsmith around these parts, an’ down to it, actually we are counting hits, even that fella ‘lowed as how there not misses. It’s just easier to represent warn’t nuthin’ he could do with it. Said that figure in number of misses. And I orta send it back to the folks at sometimes, it is darned difficult to say Taylor’s where it come from. whether a shot is a hit or a miss. In that Well, that’s what I done, an’ t’day I case, I just hope one of the other spotters got it back. Turns out this ol’ smokepole got a good look at it from their angle. be one a’ the fust they ever imported When well-intentioned people read from Uberti, an’ wouldja believe it? Why, this article, accept it as GOSPEL, and it works better’n new, an’ th’ tariff they then use it as the basis for future deci- charged fer th’ work, includin’ shippin’ sions, disservice is paid to all. were way cheaper than any gunsmith I I try to live by the cowboy way. I give ever heared tell of would git. Done it all the benefit of the doubt. I am thankful right quick, too. Took ‘em less’n three for SASS for what it has done for me and weeks t’ git it back t’me. for the friends I never knew I had before So I’m right tickled with th’ good Cowboy Action Shooting™. And remem- service and reasonable prices a body gits ber one last thing: “This is just a game.” from Taylor’s & Comp’ny an’ don’t mind Bugler Scott, SASS #23687 sayin’ so. They’re right fine folks fer a Black River Falls, WI fella t’deal with an’ I mean t’let thet fact (Actually, Virgil got it right. As a be known. spotter, it is appropriate to give the shoot- er the benefit of the doubt … if you think it’s a hit, it’s a hit … if you think it’s a SASS IS SLIDING miss … it’s a hit. However, once the spot- ters have determined their counts, when INTO AN ABYSS two agree, that’s how the shooter is to be scored. I recently had the 1,2,3 situation I’d like to take this opportunity to at a match in Florida … I honestly don’t say I support Tex’s editorial in the remember how we scored the shooter, but January issue of The Cowboy Chronicle. I do know we instantly fired the spotters I’ve been around SASS for many and got a new crew. In a 1,2,3 situation, years, and have a number of friends that giving the shooter the benefit of the doubt have also been around as long. We do not doesn’t mean declaring a clean run just shoot Cowboy Action Shooting™ much because the spotters can’t come to an anymore. The reason we don’t is simple. agreement … editor-in-chief.) We are fed up with the piff-tink, cock- roach fart loads, the stand and dump style, the speed above all else, targets a TAYLORS & few feet in front of the shooter’s face, and the total lack of anything fun in the stage COMPANY’S designs. GOOD SERVICE I find myself shooting other regi- mens more often than Cowboy Action Seems as how folks these days is Shooting™ now. In my humble opinion allus grousin’ ‘bout how bad things be. SASS needs a power factor or at least a But, when somethin’ good happens an’ a minimum velocity, no basic design prime good job is done, well, t’ain’t change of a firearm should be allowed, nuthin’ said. the targets should be farther out, and at Well, thet ain’t right. I reckon as least half the stage designs should break how y’orta say thanks an’ pat a fella on up the handguns. th’ back now an’ agin. I ain’t no hand- I'm sure nobody will agree with me, shaker, no how, but one of yer advertisers but that's my 3-1⁄2¢. done me a real fair turn, an’ I wanna say Old Scout som’pin ‘bout it. SASS Life/Regulator #323 I got me this ol’ Yellowboy .45 calibry Ontario, CA
VISIT THE SASS WEB SITE AT WWW.SASSNET.COM
GIVE TO THE SASS SCHOLARSHIP FOUNDATION (A non-profit, tax-deductable charity) MAKE THE DIFFERENCE! Page 24 Cowboy Chronicle March 2007
AMERICANS MUST FIRST WANT FREEDOM By Colonel Dan, SASS Life #24025
“Yes, we did produce a near per- when it’s gone. * 37% could not name even one of the fect republic, but will they keep Everyday I see indicators many five freedoms guaranteed by the it, or will they, in the enjoyment would rather let someone else make First Amendment—the freedom of of plenty, lose the memory of free- the decisions in life, surrendering lib- religion, speech, the press, assem- dom? Material abundance with- erty in exchange for the illusion of bly, and to petition the government out character is the path of security—even if that means surren- for redress of grievances. destruction.” Thomas Jefferson dering America herself. In a similar poll conducted by the once got an email from a highly A poll conducted by the First Portrait of America: Colonel Dan, Iplaced Libertarian Party official Amendment Center awhile back tells * Only 36% believe Congress should SASS Life #24025 that supported a long-held theory of me those questioned don’t know what follow the Constitution. [Does that mine—not all Americans want free- freedom is nor realize the proper role mean the other 64% believe it’s OK the nation would become more dan- dom or even know what it is! To of government based on our heritage for Congress to circumvent it?] gerous. Another 16% said eliminat- demand and preserve freedom, you at and think government should be * 22% of respondents would vote ing the Second Amendment would least have to know what it is, be ded- involved in most everything. against the Constitution while have no impact on safety. [It’s sad icated to its principles, be willing to * 20% said the US government another 27% said they were not when only 42% can separate the accept the individual responsibility should approve what newspapers sure whether they would support it. truth from dribble.] that comes with it, and ultimately be publish. [That’s probably because they’ve Expecting government to provide willing to aggressively defend it when * 54% said the government should never read it.] solutions to life or even thinking gov- threatened—simply put; you must rate entertainment programs * 35% said dropping the Second ernment has the major role in it is not first want freedom before you’ll fight shown on TV. Amendment from the Constitution the way we started out in 1776. This for it. If you don’t really want free- * 36% would support a law that and making personal firearms own- concept, however, is now perpetuated dom, or even recognize it, you don’t banned public remarks offensive to ership unlawful would make the by government and willingly accepted deserve it, and you’ll never miss it racial groups. U.S. a safer country, while 42% said (Continued on next page) March 2007 Cowboy Chronicle Page 25
(Continued from previous page) stance. When the modern S’s of sex, ues of self-reliance, freedom, and the History has repeatedly shown when a by many of the governed who can’t self, security, and socialism replaced willingness to stand up for and nation becomes too lazy and wrapped see the dangers so clear just a few the traditional R’s of readin’ ‘ritin’ unapologetically defend our Ameri- up pursuing pleasure, losing its generations ago. This tells me many ‘rithmatic’, responsibility, and rights can culture. As a nation, we’ve been moral fiber, values, steeled willing- modern Americans don’t have the in American education, we started enjoying the fruits of our plenty that ness to defend itself, and tenacity in same solid principles this country down a very slippery slope. originally came to us because of those holding their political leaders was founded upon and cherished by Many Americans are now ill- founding principles. However, we’re accountable, it quickly disintegrates Americans of yesteryear. educated in their own culture. They losing the memory of true freedom in … it self-destructs, as did Rome. At our country’s birth, we were know precious little about such the process, and many are afraid to When that happens, the American much more willing to accept the idea things as both Revolutions, the hold our political leaders accountable life will be a hard one … subservience of self-sufficiency and had a very Constitution, and the Bill of Rights, even in defending our borders, lan- to big government always is. healthy distrust of centralized as well as our concept of limited guage, and culture. This attitude My guess is just a few generations authority. The Founders knew what- government. Educational liberal- stems from the disease of political ago, answers to those same poll ques- ever government touched, entangling ism is now firmly established as a cowardice that’s running rampant tions regarding the role of govern- strings were attached that jerked the way of life. In general, we no longer these days. Many so-called leaders ment would have been to tell the feds bricks from freedoms’ foundation. teach kids to think; we teach them would rather give up our country to take a hike. Until Americans again Many victims of American educa- to feel good. We don’t teach history; than risk “offending” potential vot- want freedom badly enough to strong- tion and prosperity have lost that we teach PC-based revisionism, and ers—even those that would eventual- ly tell government to butt out, it will sense of colonial traditionalism. we don’t REALLY teach the Con- ly destroy us. continue to butt-in … with one huge They’ve become too lethargic, enjoy- stitution, the Bill of Rights, or the Many recipients of the real fruit and imposing butt stamped, Property ing their plenty as Jefferson said, responsibility every American has of all that prior sacrifice of past gen- of the U.S. Government. Trouble is, if and don’t want to be distracted or to defend our homeland at all! erations have become exceedingly people want to choose big government bothered by anything that doesn’t Sadly, we also teach that pride in complacent and are willing to trade over liberty and independence, they immediately entertain or provide things uniquely American, even Old traditional values for the easier, are free to do that in America; all they more money and comfort … “let gov- Glory, is to be shunned—after all, “more enlightened level of existence.” have to do is vote for it … and pay the ernment handle that, I can’t be both- such displays of pride might offend In so doing we’ve sown the wind and price later, of course. One final ered” and “Why doesn’t the govern- a few foreigners! will inevitably reap the whirlwind. thought. I’d love to see how our ment do something?” seems to be the The undereducated and ill-in- We’re reaping fruit the concept of gov- Founders would have responded to attitude of many who are so willing formed are always more apt to be ernment dependence has sown and that same poll, wouldn’t you? to trade liberty for a mere campaign dependent, and that’s exactly what losing the greatest fruit of all along Just the view from my saddle … promise of security. big government types want—more the way … Freedom. Contact Colonel Dan: Another reason I think many feel people dependent on them for I’m afraid the time is quickly [email protected]