MercantileEXCITINGSee section our NovemberNovemberNovember 2001 2001 2001 CowboyCowboyCowboy ChronicleChronicleChronicle(starting on pagePagePagePage 90) 111 The Cowboy Chronicle~. The Monthly Journal of the Single Action Shooting Society ® Vol. 20 No. 5 © Single Action Shooting Society, Inc. May 2007 WINTER RANGE 2007 By Parson Swede, SASS, #32104 Photos by Mr. Quigley Photography Team
hoenix, AZ – On March 7th HIGHLIGHTS on pages 72 & 73 as the first vestiges of light P began to spread over the val- winner received a new ‘97-clone shot- ley of the sun and the Bradshaw gun via a generous donation by Pearl Mountains just to the north, Winter Hart, with an action job by Old Range 2007 began to come to life. Western Gun Repair, aka Squibber. Over 570 wranglers, cowboys both The Plainsman event and all of classic and modern, gunfighters, cow- the long-range events rounded out girls, B-movie enthusiasts, young the day’s activities. Nearly everyone and old all gathered from 44 differ- turned in early that night to rest up ent states, Australia, Europe, and from their travels and to be ready for Canada for the 16th annual incarna- the intense competition the next tion of this classic Cowboy Action morning would bring. Shooting™ match. The year that Thursday morning dawned had gone into planning the annual bright and clear, promising tempera- event was past, and now it was time tures in the mid to high 80’s; in other to move into the competition that words, a perfect day for shooting. All would decide the best of the best at of the early wave shooters gathered the SASS National Championship of in the huge main tent at 7AM for the Cowboy Action Shooting™. The traditional opening ceremonies and weather in Phoenix was perfect with one of the most unusual safety meet- sunshine and only a few clouds plus ings any of us had ever seen. a little wind; all right, a whole lot of Combining modern technology and wind on Sunday morning, but it was good ol’ fashioned common sense lib- short lived and soon forgotten. erally seasoned with great humor, a The promises of intense competi- video presented all of the safety rules tion, great friendships, and a rollick- fashioned after an airline safety ing good time were realized by one presentation. It was terribly creative and all who attended this year’s truly and very, very funny. Brighton Belle, outstanding match. Wednesday EZ Shot, and a cast of actual charac- morning began the warm-up stages ters produced this innovative presen- that helped get the kinks out of many tation to hoots and hollers of a body and gun. This year there were approval all around. Can’t wait to three waves of shooters, a few hun- see what they do next year. dred in all that shot four “Winter Promptly at 8AM shooters were Could it get any better? The SASS National Championship, Winter Range, released on the range to begin the was blessed with near idyllic weather throughout the competition, next three days of intense competi- SASS Cowboy Chronicle great props, loads of new targets sized and placed where they were shootable if one used their front sight, and a full complement of sutlers. tion across 12 truly remarkable Even the evening entertainment was unique. Tupelo Flash, who always (Continued on page 15) In This Issue looks great, is shown here preparing to defend the on-site Indian village. See more Winter Range 62 EMF’S 1872 COLT Range type stages.” The shotgun included flying clays and a can of blast really was a blast with a very Coke, as well as a balloon. You had to Costumes by Tuolumne Lawman on page 57 challenging shotgun stage that be there to really understand it. The 63 CIMARRON’S HENRY MILITARY RIFLE by Tuolumne Lawman 74 ALASKA STATE CHAMPIONSHIP C h C by Darlin’ Caroline r o o w 76 CALIFORNIA STATE n b HAMPIONSHIP C i o by Shenandoah 23255 La Palma Avenue c y Yorba Linda, California 92887 78 WESTMATCH l e www.sassnet.com by Elder Kate Page 2 Cowboy Chronicle May 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 May 2007 Cowboy Chronicle Page 3 Page 4 Cowboy Chronicle May 2007 May 2007 Cowboy Chronicle Page 5 The Cowboy CCONTENTSONTENTS Chronicle
1 ON THE COVER Winter Range 2007 . . .
6 FROM THE EDITOR Submitting Material To The Cowboy Chronicle . . . Editorial Staff 8 FROM THE DESK OF THE GENERAL Live and Let Live! . . . Tex Editor-in-Chief 10-22 NRA Honors Cowgirl . . . Ladies Tea & Resting Room Débuts At Founders Ranch . . . Cat Ballou NEWS Editor Time To Ready Your Costumes For The 26th END of TRAIL . . . Chiz 16 CAT’S CORNER Managing Editor Advertising Director 18 CHIZ BIZ What’s Goin’ On . . . Adobe Illustrator Layout & Design 26 POLITICAL Climate Change And Extinction Are Nature’s Ways . . . Mac Daddy Graphic Design 27 LETTERS Comments From SASS Members . . . Donna Oakley Advertising Administrator 28-37 ARTICLES William F. “Buffalo Bill” Cody . . . Silver Screen Saloon Show . . . Contributing Writers Bob Boze Bell, Capt. George Baylor, Cinnamon Lucy, Col. Dan, 38-51 GUNS & GEAR Billy The Kid Breaks Out! . . . Cowboy Trap Gun . . . Timely Fashion Cree Vicar Dave, Ellsworth T. Kincaid, Holy Terror, Winter Range SASS National Mounted Shooting Championship . . . Ioway, Joe Fasthorse Harrill, 58 MOUNTED Juaquin Malone, Madd Mike, Mr. Quigley, Nubbins Colt, 60 HISTORY This Month In History . . . Little Known Famous People . . . Purdy Gear, Sierrita Slim, Swift Montana Smith, Tuolumne Lawman TM 61 REVIEWS-BOOKS Gun Digest . . . Hollywood And The O.K. Corral . . . The Cowboy Chronicle is published by The Wild Bunch, Board of Directors of The Single Action Shooting 62, 63 REVIEWS-PRODUCTS EMF’s 1872 Open Top In .45 Colt! . . . Society. For advertising information and rates, administrative and editorial offices contact: 68, 69 TRAIL MARKER Chronicle Administrator 23255 La Palma Avenue ON THE RANGE What’s Goin’ On In Your Town? . . . Yorba Linda, California 92887 74- 714-694-1800 FAX: 714-694-1813 68, 69 END of TRAIL 2007 . . . email: [email protected] http://www.sassnet.com PROFILES Yosemite Valley Sam, SASS #73791 . . . The Shooter’s Persona . . . The Cowboy Chronicle (ISSN 15399877) 71- is published Monthly by the Single Action Shooting Society, 23255 La Palma 90-96 MERCANTILE Nice SASS Collectibles . . . Avenue, Yorba Linda, California 92887. Periodicals Postage is Paid at ANAHEIM, CA and additional mailing offices (USPS 97- CLASSIFIED #020-591). POSTMASTER: Send ad- dress changes to The Cowboy Chronicle, 23255 La Palma Avenue, Yorba Linda, 101- SHOOTING SCHEDULES (MONTHLY)-(ANNUAL) 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. SASS does business at the National Championships—Winter Range. SASS® Trademarks The publisher also does not guarantee Coyote Calhoun, The Judge, and Hipshot listen as another cowboy the safety or effectiveness of any prod- SASS®, Single Action Shooting Society®, explains what he’s thinking and what SASS ought to be thinking! uct or service illustrated. The distribution END of TRAIL®, EOT®, of some products/services may be ille- The SASS booth is a TM gal in some areas, and we do not great place to visit The Cowboy Chronicle , TM assume responsibility thereof. State and with Headquarters Cowboy Action Shooting , local laws must be investigated by the staff and discuss CASTM, purchaser prior to purchase or use or current SASS issues. The World Championship of products/services. TM Topics of one sort or Cowboy Action Shooting , WARNING: Neither the author nor The another filled the air Bow-legged Cowboy Design, and the Cowboy Chronicle can accept any as a near-continuous Rocking Horse Design responsibility for accidents or diffe- ring results obtained using reloading stream of cowboys and are all trademarks of girls dropped by. data. Variation in handloading tech- Most of the discussions The Single Action Shooting Society, Inc. niques, components, and firearms were quite lively … the Any use or reproduction of these marks will make results vary. Have a compe- without the express written permission tent gunsmith check your firearms SASS booth was an before firing. exciting place to be! of SASS is strictly prohibited. Page 6 Cowboy Chronicle May 2007
SUBMITTING MATERIAL TO The Cowboy Chronicle By Tex, SASS #4
rect English and sometimes helping Text is clean (no streaks, dropouts, mark focus the writer’s words to better The easiest way to submit text is throughs, or hand annotations, and explain the subject being addressed. via e-mail (address to Donna@sass the like), but this represents addition- Although the endeavor is largely a net.com or [email protected] atten- al processing steps and slows down labor of love, it is much like going to tion “Tex”). Embed the text in the the production process. school … the homework just never body of the e-mail message and There are still a few souls that Tex, SASS #4 ends. Attending matches, going on attach a Microsoft Word file of the don’t use computers and can only ~SASS Hall of Fame Inductee~ vacation, taking on special projects … text to the message as well. This way, submit handwritten material. These no matter what goes on in one’s life, there are two chances of being able to letters and submittals will be read, irtually everything printed in the next issue is always only days retrieve the text. The attached word but only in the most rare cases will The Cowboy Chronicle is submit- away, requiring a laptop permanently processing file must be a Microsoft they be processed for publication. V ted by SASS members. Even be within arms length … and running! Word file. All Cowboy Chronicle materi- The resources to turn these hand- though the number of professio- There a number of things each al is processed on a Mac, and Word written letters into processable text nal/semi-professional writers in SASS submitter can do that will make the Perfect files, for example, are just are simply not available. can be counted on one hand, this mate- editors’ jobs easier and will materially impossible to get unscrambled. If you are reporting the results of rial is vital to the well-being of the improve the quality of and interest in Text can also be snail-mailed to a match, or otherwise using some- organization and is greatly appreciat- each submitted article. If you draw “Tex” at the SASS office. An electron- one’s SASS handle (which should ed. Member submitted material re- the short straw to do the match write ic version of the Word file on a CD or always be used in lieu of a SASS per- flects the ideas, philosophy, issues, and up for your annual match, or you DVD is the preferred medium, and a son’s street name), include their solutions that concern us all. The want to let others know about your hardcopy printout of the text provides SASS number the first time they are (small!) editorial staff takes great club activities, or submit material for a great “fail-safe” backup in case there mentioned (especially important in pride in processing this material … any of the other sections of The Cowboy is a problem reading the CD/DVD. It the “Winners” list). If you don’t know turning some of it into a bit more cor- Chronicle, please continue reading … is possible to scan hardcopy if the text (Continued on page 24) May 2007 Cowboy Chronicle Page 7 Page 8 Cowboy Chronicle May 2007
FROM THE DESK OF THE GENERAL Live and Let Live! By US Grant, SASS #2
understand, I shoot .45’s, .32-20’s, ter in spite of my equipment instead and take the consequences of my and .32 H&R Mags, all loaded with of because of my equipment!!! Don’t decisions like a man without beg- blackpowder, depending on the day lessen my feeling of happiness when ging for special consideration for and how I feel at the time. To me, low- I do manage to take down a knock- my choices. ering the settings to fit what I decided down target that someone with a .38 On most days I like my .45’s and to shoot after reading the SASS or .45 has had trouble with. Allow other days I use my .32’s, I have just General US Grant, SASS #2 Handbook and knowing my .32’s me to compete in this sport under as much fun. If it ain’t broke, don’t would be marginal would be just the rules that were in effect when I fix it.” here have been many com- wrong!!! It lowers me and detracts made my decisions on equipment I believe it’s important to live ments lately on the wire from my enjoyment when I easily take without trying to give me an extra and be content with the choices we T and articles regarding light down knockdowns with my ‘mighty’ advantage for that equipment!!! each make—live and let live— loads. I thought it interesting how at .32’s!! I made the decision to use my Allow me to step up to the firing line COWBOY UP! least one of our members feels about .32’s. Nobody forced this decision the situation. The following letter upon me. I made that decision know- from Greenriver, SASS #38681, is ing full well they might be marginal VISIT THE SASS WEB SITE AT WWW.SASSNET.COM quoted verbatim … on some targets, and I neither ask nor “Please understand this is my want the sport changed to accommo- GIVE TO THE personal opinion, but I really don’t date my decision on what I shoot!!! I SASS SCHOLARSHIP FOUNDATION want to see the knockdowns set lower can shoot my .32’s faster than my (A non-profit, tax-deductable charity) than what SASS has always recom- .45’s, so it is only fair I have to aim a mended as a standard setting, 158 little more carefully with them. MAKE THE DIFFERENCE! grain .38 Special Factory Load. Now, Don’t lessen my efforts to do bet- May 2007 Cowboy Chronicle Page 9
[email protected] Page 10 Cowboy Chronicle May 2007
SILVER SCREEN LEGEND X A TRIBUTE TO HOPALONG CASSIDY By Dutch, SASS #455
o commemorate the 10th spots, hearts, and stars. Tex Burns, beginning in 1951. TAnniversary of the Happy Trails This is a stunning hand However, it was Hollywood pro- Children’s Foundation Silver Screen carved black and white gun ducer Harry “Pop” Sherman, teamed Legend fund raising project, the leg- rig that is singularly with actor, William Boyd, who would endary Colt’s Manufacturing Co. of unique and truly a cowboy make our hero a household name all Hartford, CT has generously donat- collectible that anyone over the world. Beginning with ed an exquisite pair of very special would be proud to own. 1935’s Hop-A-Long Cassidy, Sher- Single Action Army Model P 1873 From the moment man produced a majority of the orig- Colt Peacemakers. These guns have Hoppy was first introduced inal 66 feature films. been painstakingly and accurately in author Clarence E. After several years, Sherman transformed into authentic repro- Mulford’s epic western was ready to move on to other proj- ductions of the original Colt .45’s novel Bar 20, published in ects so Boyd took a gamble, selling used by William Boyd as Hopalong 1906, he became a legend. almost everything he owned to raise, Cassidy, one of America’s most Through the years, Mulford beg, and borrow enough money to beloved fictional Western heroes. wrote many more Hoppy purchase the rights to the Hoppy Fully engraved in the exact pattern Silver Screen Legend X stories ending with films and name, shrewdly including of the originals, these 5-1/2” barrel Hopalong Cassidy Serves a the television rights for technology pistols have been sterling silver plat- To complement these guns, a Writ, published in 1941. Mulford that was then in the experimental ed and feature beautiful hand- faithful reproduction of the then retired from writing, but with stages. After acquiring the rights, carved genuine pre-ban elephant Hopalong Cassidy double holster rig Hoppy’s popularity still at a fever Boyd produced the final series of ivory grips with silver Colt medal- has been recreated, incorporating all pitch, and with Mulford’s approval, Hoppy feature films and later 40 lions. These beautiful pistols are the unusual features of the original, Louis L’Amour penned four more episodes of the popular half-hour TV truly works of art! including the proper sterling silver Hoppy novels under the pen name (Continued on next page) May 2007 Cowboy Chronicle Page 11 (Continued from previous page) Silver Screen Legend project. show in the early 1950’s. Boyd as The original concept, overall Hopalong Cassidy became the first theme, coordination, and design of major television star in the late the Silver Screen Legend X were pro- 1940’s when he packaged his feature vided by Jim Lockwood of Legends in films for the then almost unknown Leather. He also personally hand medium of television that was soon crafted all the leather in his Prescott, to sweep across the country into AZ shop. The handmade sterling sil- nearly every home. Almost instantly, ver buckle sets, spots, and the exqui- he became more popular than ever site hand engraving on the pistols and made a fortune off the character were provided by Conrad Anderson, he portrayed for so many years in the Rocktree Ranch Enterprises, popular series of films. He became so Kingston, ID. The exceptional carved popular he soon had his own comic ivory grips were hand crafted by Bob books, as did his beloved white charg- Leskovec, Precision Pro Grips, er, Topper. He had a radio show Gibsonia, PA. David Warther of based on the character and was in Sugarcreek, OH donated the ivory, constant demand for public appear- and Ron Love of Prescott, AZ donated ances. Boyd’s likeness as Hoppy the prop cartridges. could be found on milk cartons, bread Tickets for this one-of-a-kind wrappers, and hundreds of toys and museum quality cowboy collectible products. Through television, Hoppy are $10 each or 11 tickets for $100. became a hero for all ages and gen- The drawing will be held December ders and will live forever in the 16, 2007 in Victorville, CA. You need hearts of western fans everywhere. not be present to win. You may order The Happy Trails Children’s tickets by phone (760) 240-3330 or Foundation is proud to honor this online www.happytrails.org. Or you legendary fictional western hero may send your check to: Happy with the presentation of our first Trails Children’s Foundation, Silver TWO-GUN OUTFIT, to commemo- Screen Legend X, 10755 Apple Valley rate the 10th anniversary of the Road, Apple Valley, CA 92308.
For AD Rates ~ DONNA ~ (EXT. 118) Page 12 Cowboy Chronicle May 2007
NRA HONORS COWGIRL By Aimless Annie, SASS Life/Regulator #6890
t’s official! Our own Justice Lily nized one of our own for an honor of shooters into the fold. Since she sel- IKate, SASS Life Regulator #1000, this magnitude. dom takes “no” for an answer, I’ve has been selected to receive NRA’s Most of us know Kate as the gre- personally seen her coax reluctant 2007 Marion P. Hammer Woman of garious wife of Judge Roy Bean, observers into taking a shot, eventu- Distinction Award. It’s a well- SASS #1. We also know her as an ally converting them into enthusias- deserved choice and a coup for the enthusiastic supporter of Cowboy tic participants in the time it takes to cowgirls. Action Shooting™. There is, howev- hold a two-day match. Each year, the National Rifle er, much more to this native Texan Kate is also a natural when it Association singles out individuals than her cowgirl personae. Kate is a comes to firearm education. As a who have had a noteworthy impact woman for all seasons: wife, mother, child, she was taught gun safety and on gun ownership in America. The school teacher, journalist, activist, how to shoot at a young age. She highly coveted Marion Hammer and willing ambassador for our was allowed to go hunting with her Award for women was created in sport. What sets her apart from her brothers at age eight and often 2004 and named for NRA’s first peers is her tireless and assertive accompanied her Dad on coyote kills female President. The award recog- use of every opportunity to promote early in the morning, before chores nizes exceptional contributions to both her sport and the purposes and and school. The family hunted to the preservation of the Second goals of the NRA. secure food, and Kate got her first Justice Lily Kate Amendment and the shooting sports Through travels with the Judge, deer at age twelve. She takes this through education, advocacy, volun- Justice Lily Kate has had an oppor- background with her into the class- and of themselves, are dangerous teerism, and legislative activism in tunity to interact with thousands of room, which she admits to using as and kill people.” Amazingly, Kate’s support of the goals of the NRA. women, literally coast to coast. While a bully pulpit. Principal at Houston’s Langham The selection of Justice Lily Kate she is an excellent Cowboy Action Says Kate: “I use the classroom Creek High School, is very support- for this prestigious award marks Shooter in her own right, with plenty to teach my students about gun ive of her efforts to keep an open the first time the marquee pro-gun of plaques on her wall to prove it, her safety, concealed carry licensing, dialog regarding guns. Kate was organization has formally recog- strength is in her ability to bring new and to negate the idea that guns, in (Continued on page 23) May 2007 Cowboy Chronicle Page 13 Page 14 Cowboy Chronicle May 2007
LADIES TEA & RESTING ROOM DÉBUTS AT FOUNDERS RANCH By Tess Dandridge, SASS #50371
ND of TRAIL 2007 is almost upon us, and this year a fine tradition is returning. The Ladies Tea Eand Resting Room will be serving tea and cookies. The Tea Tent has been a long since tradition as a place to get out of the elements and give folks the opportunity to socialize. In Victorian times, the habit of “Taking Tea” was not only a custom, but moreover, a ceremony, filled with elaborate rituals. A genteel tea party became a symbol of refinement. In the very early years of the 18th Century, a man named Tom Twining began to serve tea in his London Coffeehouse. However, women were not allowed in coffeehouses, so Twining opened an exclusive teahouse for women in 1717, although it remained, for many years, a pleasure that only the rich and the fashionable could enjoy ... Beginning in both America and England in the late l880’s, fine hotels began to offer tea service in Tea Rooms. Victorian ladies and their gentlemen would meet in the late afternoon for tea and conversation. After the popularity of the English tea gardens diminished during the early part of the nineteenth Century, the first official tea room in Britain came around 1864. In rural communities, afternoon tea evolved into “high tea,” and almost became a meal in itself. High Tea is another acronym for “afternoon tea,” and it became such in rural communities and evolved into the main meal of the day. High Tea was a cross between afternoon tea, and the din- ner that was normally served in homes in the early evening. Tea also became an important social event, when people (especially women) would gather in their elegant drawing rooms and partake of their afternoon cuppa, talking discreetly about local events. A general rule of etiquette was always followed during these gatherings. Unlike Mr. Tom Twining, our END of TRAIL Tea and Resting Room will serve Cowboys and Ladies alike. Please stop by, visit, and enjoy a cup of tea with us. May 2007 Cowboy Chronicle Page 15 WINTER RANGE 2007 (Continued from page 1) Lees Memorial Sleuth award and donated those who would do our coun- stages designed by Blackjack Zak and Lt. Col. by Desperado Cowboy Bullets. try harm. We cannot thank Scratch. Our intrepid range masters had more Friday morning dawned once again them enough. The very than able assistance from Lobo Joe, The Fixer, bright and clear with the temperature enthusiastic standing Lighting Rick, and Amigo Mike, who literally rising into the high 80’s. The intense ovation he received spent hundreds of hours working on set pieces and friendly competition continued made it very clear and targets. These stages were the best Winter throughout Friday and Saturday how all the cowboys Range has ever seen, and if you have attended for bragging rights and those great and cowgirls felt. Winter Range in the past, you will know that is bronze trophies. As the award cer- saying something. There were, in fact this year, emony started, Tex The stages were chal- no authenticated sightings of an of the Wild Bunch lenging without being old bearded man named Noah was invited to share ‘tricky,’ and very diverse leading pairs of animals a word. His praise of with a lot of move- through sutler’s row carrying Winter Range was ment with long guns some lumber as there had indeed gratifying, but from position to been the past couple of even better was his position, and that years at Winter Range. firm denial of the made you think, Starting on Friday and rumor SASS was plan- which turned out continuing through Satur- ning to move the to be one my per- day evening, all of the com- National Championship to sonal problems. petitors, vendors, sponsors, and Founders Ranch. “Nothing The set pieces visitors were treated to some could be further from the were terrific, pretty terrific entertainment truth,” Tex stated, and assured including a very both in the main tent and in a Overall SASS all present Winter Range large train per- special entertainment tent just National Champions— would host the National sonally built by off our food court—or corral, more Holy Terror and Championship for the next Lt. Col. Scratch. properly. These fine folks included Boots Rob. four years. Good goin’! The shotgun tar- Sid Hausman, Kip Calahan, Way Congratulations! There was another story gets were bigger Out West, Will Roberts, Mark Brooks, very few were aware of. A gentleman named this year, and some and, of course, the incredible talents of Wade Freeman visited Winter Range and tried great knockdown plate Lafitte, Knight of the Green Cloth. out a couple of guns. In December 2005 Wade’s racks were added that Friday night brought the return both of neck was broken in a car accident, and he was were fun without being a Casino night and our annual karaoke contest. hospitalized for 13 months. His injury resulted problem. Even and care- The action at the tables was brisk and the in his diagnosis as a high-level quadriplegic. ful layout of the stage sce- SASS Winter Range singing, although spirited, ranged from great Winter Range was his first “outing” of any kind narios kept all the posses Top Gun Shoot-off to kind of less great. All had a terrific time, since his injury. He was moving with virtually no Winners—Holy Terror and some pretty nice raffle prizes left the wheeled to our practice backup or traffic conges- and Chuckwalla Kid. tent in the hands of smiling folks. stage and allowed to tion, and that’s some Head to head competition On Saturday night after another terrif- fire a .44-40 with the accomplishment in a at it’s very best! ic meal by the Bar B Que Crew, the cow- help and careful match this large. All of Well done! boys and cowgirls danced the night observation of one the elements appropriate for a National Cham- away to the great sounds of Mark Brooks of our rangers. pionship were there. and The Cow Dudes. Wade was also Thursday evening brought a whole new The awards ceremony on helped to fire entertainment theme to Winter Range. Sunday following the second both the can- After sampling some of the biggest burri- half of the Shotgun Blast, non and the tos I personally have ever seen ably the team event, the All Gatling gun. served up by the Bar B Que crew, our Around Cowboy, and the While these cowboys and cowgirls were treated to a Top Gun Cowboy and events might night of mystery theatre called Cowgirl competition seem minor to “Murder at the High Noon Saloon.” brought some very spe- some of us, to Professionally presented by Pistols cial moments. One of the him this was a and Petticoats, LLC, this old fashioned best moments was when very big deal. whodunit was a tale of murder, betray- Race Gunner, a midshipman When speaking of al, and intrigue with a liberal sampling at the US Naval Academy, who the recoil, Wade of good guys, bad guys, a bevy of beautiful had flown across country to com- stated, “This is the saloon girls, and even a town pete in Winter Range, first time I have been drunk. A great evening was had Match Director, Blackjack Zak, won 8th place in his cate- able to feel anything by all, and the one individual again assembled an outstanding gory. This fine young man below my neck since crew of lieutenants and assistants that solved the mystery, Joe who managed to produce the represented all of those All Around Cowboy my injury. I kinda feel Lafives was given a very hand- event with flawless precision. outstanding individuals Winners—Long Hunter real again.” Both some engraved box declaring Extensive pre-planning ensured who serve our country, and Half-a-Hand Henri. Wade and his wife, him the winner of the Isaiah excellent execution! standing between us and Outstanding job! (Continued on page 39) Page 16 Cowboy Chronicle May 2007
TIME TO READY YOUR COSTUMES FOR i THE 26TH ANNUAL END of TRAIL i By Cat Ballou, SASS #55
lems between the various costume a separate contest be held for B- you get my point. To alleviate some Cat Ballou, SASS #55 contests and the shooting schedules Western. There just aren’t enough of the hours spent sitting through all ~SASS Hall of Fame Inductee~ resulted in folks not being able to hours in the day and night to appro- those END of TRAIL awards, we are finish their stages and make it to the priately schedule all these contests moving selected costume awards to he 26th END of TRAIL is fast Best Dressed judging on time. We and entertainment, so we are consol- other days and nights. Shooting approaching; in fact, it’s next hope we’ve resolved that issue by idating B-Western back into the fold Costumes, Guncarts, Best Conven- T month! It’s definitely time to extending the judging time from of the Best Dressed contest on tioneers, and Best Waddies costume ready your costumes for participa- 5:30 – 7:00 PM in the Belle Union Saturday evening. awards will be distributed 6:30 PM tion in the various costume contests Saloon on Saturday, June 23rd. Soiled Doves judging will be Friday evening in Founders Hall, that permeate the event. Our cos- New this year and continuing held from 8:30 – 9:30 PM Thursday, and the judging for these contests tume contests’ sponsor continues to with the Classic Gunfights and June 21st in the Belle Union. The will now take place on Thursday and be Wild West Mercantile, C. S. Fly Gunfighters’ theme is an “open” cos- awards are presented immediately Friday morning, June 21st and and Claudia Feather of Phoenix, tume category, the Classic after the judges reach their “diffi- 22nd, from 10:30 AM – 12:30 PM in Arizona, and we continue to be very Gunfighter. Awards will be given 1st cult” decisions, and then the gam- the Belle Union Saloon. grateful for their ongoing support to 3rd place for the best-looking bling commences. It’s also time to make a rule year after year! Classic Gunfighter, be they male, Sunday’s Awards Ceremony last change to the Best Dressed Costume Last year some scheduling prob- female, or junior. Also, no longer will year went on and on and on … well, (Continued on next page) May 2007 Cowboy Chronicle Page 17
(Continued from previous page) Costume Contests information on Contest regarding not entering a the website, but it will be in effect at costume again that has already won the 26th END of TRAIL. first place either at the SASS Con- It is my fervent wish many of you vention or END of TRAIL. This “no sign up to participate in the great repeat” rule may be hurting, rather END of TRAIL costume contests. than helping, the growth of costume Costume contests information is contests, as participation in some available on the SASS Website. You categories has been declining. can even sign up online. Of course, Therefore, if a costume is a first sign up forms and rules will also be place winner at END of TRAIL, the included in all the END of TRAIL same costume CAN be entered at the Action Shooters, Mounted Shooters, SASS Convention, and vice versa. conventioneers, and waddies’ pack- Once that costume is a first place ets. And, if you see me strolling winner at BOTH the SASS Con- down the streets of our growing vention and END of TRAIL, it needs western town at beautiful Founders’ to be “retired.” This rule change is Ranch, please stop, say hello, and not reflected in the END of TRAIL let’s talk costumes! Page 18 Cowboy Chronicle May 2007
Tuesday is the warm-up match, Shooters Handbook has been around the local clubs as a shoot- and Wednesday brings World, printed and is available for er with the Rio Grande National, and Western Regional download on the SASS Renegades and Buffalo Range Champion, Expressman, in for an Mounted Riders and advanced clinic to tune up riders Website. has been an competing in END of TRAIL. Also avail- active volun- Expressman will take riders of all able for down- teer on many levels and share his techniques for load is the Founders the winning ride. He will do this in a updated Ranch new warm-up arena located adjacent MRO-I projects, to the main arena. Course. including Wednesday is also fun day with With so swinging a the main match following on Thurs- much activity hap- hammer on the first END of day, Friday, and Saturday. Brand pening at Founders TRAIL Town Buildings. We new this year is a Saturday night Ranch, including build- welcome these two new bright awards ceremony expressly for the ing of the Western Town additions to the SASS Mounted Shooters. Competitors pla- and yours truly now liv- Family! Chiz, SASS #392 cing second and beyond will be feted ing in the Land of A tribute to the late SASS Marketing Director with a Mariachi Mexico ceremony Enchantment, SASS Miss Ann, beloved featuring Margaritas and a live has opened a satel- wife of Billy Boots, ND of TRAIL is just around Mariachi Band. The ceremony will lite office in Edge- will take place dur- the corner, and the Mounted be held in the Tijeras Corral and wood where two ing END of TRAIL E Shooting folks are in for a folks are encouraged to dress Mex! new employees have come on board. on Wednesday, June 20 at 5:00 p.m. treat! Along with the action packed All END of TRAIL participants are Cimarron Lou has been added as A New Mexican style bench and a shooting event schedule for the welcome, and this should be one Marketing Manager to help with the tree will be placed just outside the Action Shooters, the mounted folks heckuva party! The following Sun- tasks of event production, advertis- mission entry where folks can rest in have quite a schedule. Starting on day morning, a Mounted Shooting ing, and promotion of SASS. A the shade during Founders Ranch Monday, Founders Ranch’s own Awards ceremony will continue on recent transplant from the state of events. Miss Ann, who loved Foun- Buffalo Range Riders Mounted will horseback for the first place winners Washington, she now lives in ders Ranch, was given the True Grit be putting on a new shooters’ clinic. in the main arena in front of the Edgewood and brings many years of Award last END of TRAIL and Open to all riders, it is designed to public. corporate experience to the organi- passed on shortly thereafter. The introduce horses and their owners to Speaking of Mounted Shooting, zation. Prairie Mary is our new dedication ceremony is open to all this fascinating sport. version 10 of the SASS Mounted Clubs’ Manager. She is well known END of TRAIL participants. May 2007 Cowboy Chronicle Page 19 END of TRAIL Tuesday Night Country Dance Class Beginners are welcome! By Miss Tabitha, SASS #26972
rush up on your two- of fun as she teaches you what you need to know to Bstep and learn to get you moving on the dance floor on spin your honey in the Friday and Saturday night. In Cowboy swing! Begin- between couples’ dances, she’s likely ners are welcome! to throw in an old-time square dance Miss Tabitha, SASS #26972 Known for her abil- or reel, just to keep you in ity to make dance the mood of a cowboy steps easy to barn dance. understand, Miss So grab your Tabitha will give honey, and pro- you a boot-scoo- menade your tin’ good time on way on down to Tuesday night in Founders Hall on Founders Hall for Tuesday evening for a Country Dance everything you need class. This class is de- to know to dance signed especially for the night away! beginners or for those who want to brush-up on the basics. Miss Tabitha personally wants to invite all reluctant husbands and those with two left feet to come have a barrel Page 20 Cowboy Chronicle May 2007
CIVIL WAR HERITAGE PRESERVATION
he North-South Skirmish Asso- titions, called “skirmishes,” Tciation will hold its 115th will be held throughout the National Competition on May 18- summer on a regional basis. 20, 2007 at Fort Shenandoah, near At a skirmish, participating Winchester, Virginia. Member teams shoot at breakable tar- units compete in live-fire matches gets in several timed events. with original or authentic reproduc- The teams with the lowest tion Civil War period muskets, car- cumulative times win medals bines, rifles, revolvers, mortars, and or other awards. cannons. It is the largest Civil War Women participate along event of its kind in the country. with the men in all events. Founded in 1950, the N-SSA has There are also competitions for 3,500 individuals that make up its authenticity of Civil War peri- 200 member teams. Each team rep- od military and civilian dress, resents a Civil War regiment or unit period music, and lectures on and wears the uniform they wore topics of historical interest. over 145 years ago. Spectators are welcome and admission is free. There is N-SSA members come from all Lawrence “Hoot” Gibson of the 3rd Georgia Infantry takes aim with his C. S. over the country to Fort Shenan- Richmond rifle during the musket matches at the North-South Skirmish a large sutler area and food doah each spring for this national Association’s 114h National Competition held last October. The 115th National will service is available. For more competition that traditionally be held May 18-20, 2007 at the Association’s home range, Fort Shenandoah, near information, visit the N-SSA opens the year’s activities. Compe- Winchester, Virginia. For more information, visit www.n-ssa.org. web site at: www.n-ssa.org. May 2007 Cowboy Chronicle Page 21 Page 22 Cowboy Chronicle May 2007
e e U.S. FIRE ARMS MFG. CO. REINTRODUCES DEAN SMITH CELEBRITY THE BISLEY MODEL! RODEO CARRIES ON BEN rlando, Florida – the Bisley such as JOHNSON’S LEGACY OU.S. Fire Arms Mfg. engraving; gold By Texas Jack Hondo, SASS #45841 Co. (USFA) in Hartford, and silver plate; and ivory, stag, Connecticut, proudly n October 19th-21, 2006, of all who participated until Dean and other grips. announces after exten- Abilene, Texas, witnessed a and Debby Smith took up the As with the O sive research and engi- western event that won’t be for- cause and continued the tradition. original Bisley neering they have in gotten for a very long time. Dean Smith, along with all the other Model revolvers, production a full line of Smith, a noted stunt man, ranch- celebrities, Buck Taylor, Alex Cord, the USFA Bisley Model is 100% the famous Bisley Model Single er, and all around westerner, put Bruce Boxleitner, Peter Brown, made in Hartford, Connecticut, USA. Action revolvers. Originally pro- on the third Dean Smith Jack Hondo, numerous sponsors, These guns are already being duced by the Colt’s Mfg. Co. from Celebrity Rodeo at Taylor Coun- and volunteers successfully con- shipped to select dealers and several 1894 to 1912, the original run includ- ty’s Expo Center in the Ben tinued and improved the event. current production models were ed over 44,000 guns in 18 calibers in Johnson tradition. Dean Smith also received the introduced at the Shot Show in a dizzying array of configurations. Ben Johnson, Academy Award Western Man of the Year Award Orlando, FL. The New USFA Bisley Model winning actor, stunt man, and and was presented an exact About U.S. Fire Arms revolver is completely available ini- World Champion team roper who remake of John Wayne’s 20x hat USFA is the only firearms manu- tially in three barrel lengths (4-3/4", passed away in 1996, was also from Beaver Brand Hat Company facturer in Hartford, Connecticut 5-1/2", and 7-1/2"), six calibers (.32- noted for putting on the Ben who gives the award to a person and is best known for its historically 20 WCF, .38 Special, .38-40 WCF, .44 Johnson Pro-Celebrity Rodeo for who has done the most to carry on accurate, best of breed production of Special, .44-40 WCF, .45 Colt), and kids. There was a void in the lives and preserve the western way. three finishes (Armory Blue, Armory Single Action revolvers, US Pre-War, Blue with bone case color frame, and Plinker .22, Omni & Bisley Model bright nickel). The entire menu of revolvers, Lightning rifles, Maxim For more information, contact ny’s complete line of guns, parts, pis- custom options available with our Silencers, and M1910 and M1911 USFA at 860-296-7441 or sales@ tol magazines, and more, visit: standard line will be available for auto pistols. usfirearms.com. To see the compa- www.usfirearms.com May 2007 Cowboy Chronicle Page 23
NRA HONORS COWGIRL . . . GIVE TO THE (Continued from page 12) Cat Ballou, SASS #55 Life, Shot- named “Teacher of the Year” in glass, SASS #17153 Life, Fannie SASS SCHOLARSHIP FOUNDATION 2006, and her district Superin- Kikinshoot, SASS #33693 Life, (A non-profit, tax-deductable charity) tendent calls her Annie Oakley! Lizzie Marie, SASS #19774 Life, and MAKE THE DIFFERENCE! Though Kate has no official involve- Velvet Glove, SASS #50276. Kate ment with the SASS Scholarship does know her stuff—and when Foundation, she is especially proud NRA President Sandra Froman ulate spokesperson for women gun women shooters are considerable of its success and the genuine source came to the SASS Convention last owners, both in and out of the cow- and her positive influence on stu- of recognition and encouragement it year, it was Kate who helped dress girl arena. dents regarding the gun issue is provides for our youngsters. her for her presentation, including Justice Lily Kate garners enthu- vitally important. She is a thought- In spite of her busy schedule, shopping for a corset! siasm for both Second Amendment ful, willing activist who exemplifies Kate makes time to write for sever- Even before Justice Lily Kate issues and shooting sports—and we what NRA’s Marion P. Hammer al national magazines including met Judge Roy Bean, she was an are pleased the NRA has taken Women of Distinction Award is all Women & Guns, SHOOT! and active member of a Cowboy Action notice. She remains a cowgirl at about. Congratulations Kate! We Women’s Outlook. Her recent “cow- Shooting™ club, the Texas Histo- heart, but her efforts on behalf of are very proud of you. girl” article in the March/April ‘06 rical Shooting Society. She attended issue of NRA’s Women’s Outlook her first match in March of 1997, brought much attention to our sport became a member in April, and was from a woman’s perspective. But elected to the board of directors in www.sweetshooter.com Kate knows well that shooting for October. She served on the board for sport is the fun side of gun owner- four years as Secretary, Treasurer, ship. She has made sure to secure Vice-President, and Co-Match Di- her right to carry while traveling by rector for their major annual match, obtaining licenses in Texas, Florida, known as “Trailhead.” and Utah. Says Kate: “I believe When scheduling allows, Kate those three licenses cover at least 22 can be found at NRA and industry states, though I’m constantly check- conventions, as well as the Second ing new laws to keep current.” Amendment Foundation’s Gun As a testament to her signifi- Rights Policy Conference. As wife of cance as cowgirl ambassador, Kate SASS #1, Kate often finds herself in was invited to give a Cowboy Action the spotlight, frequently inter- Shooting™ seminar at the NRA viewed by reporters and radio hosts. Annual Meeting in April, 2007, in She displays conviction and a natu- the form of an Afternoon Ladies Tea ral ease when she expresses her pro- for the NRA Board Members spous- gun views. Her responses are es, complete with the best in fashion always on point and almost always from our sport. She was assisted by amusing! She has become an artic- Page 24 Cowboy Chronicle May 2007
SUBMITTING MATERIAL TO THE COWBOY CHRONICLE . . . (Continued from page 6) major article can be as much as 1200 their number, don’t worry about it. words but should never be more than But if you’re reporting a SASS sanc- 1500 words. Anything over 2000 tioned shooting match, everyone is words will be edited down. This edit- required to be a SASS member, and ing down of text not only takes time, their SASS number is included in but it’s now the editor (one of only their registration materials. If you two) who is determining the content don’t provide their numbers, the edi- of the piece rather than the author. torial staff must look up the numbers, Keep the articles in bounds and main- again slowing the production process. tain control of the contents. (Word 400 words are plenty when writ- has a menu function that counts the ing a letter expressing an opinion or number of words in your article.) making a comment. 800 words (half a Obviously, match officials need to Cowboy Chronicle page) are generally make sure their range help and plenty when writing a column. A (Continued on next page) May 2007 Cowboy Chronicle Page 25 (Continued from previous page) you just might make the cover of The match sponsors know they are appre- Cowboy Chronicle! ciated. Thank you notes are appropri- First … don’t try to “help” by lay- ate … but they should consistently be ing out the article yourself. Often handled separately from The Cowboy Word documents are received with Chronicle match report. There are the photos and captions carefully and always 800 to 1200 words of interest- strategically placed within the text. ing match items to be reported with- Since the layout process is the last out using your word allocation for thing done prior to publication, the long lists of “thank you’s.” first thing done to the submitted One last thing … fractions. It material is to extract the photos and turns out there is a difference in the captions from the text … once again, ASCII codes used by the Mac and PCs inserting an “extra” step in the pro- for fractions. When these codes are duction process and slowing things entered on a PC and submitted to The down. Keep the text file and the Cowboy Chronicle, they come out as photo files separate. blanks. The editors are not shy about Quite often a large number of pho- guessing what the fractions should tos are received with an article … with be, but to ensure fidelity, do your frac- no captions or any other indication tions like this: 1-1/2,” or 3-3/4”, or 1/3 what is significant about the pictures tsp flour … … just a bunch of pictures taken at a By the way … always include a match. That’s not particularly inter- Byline … we must know who wrote esting to the folks who weren’t there, the material! and the editors can’t help if they don’t Photographs know the individuals in the pictures Photographs make all the differ- or weren’t present at the match. ence between an OK article and a In recent months large numbers of great article … but all photos are not collages have been printed because created equal. There are many things that’s all that were submitted. There you can do to “spruce-up” your article! was no useful information submitted It goes without saying, only “good” with the pictures. Pick half a dozen photos should be submitted—in focus pictures that you especially like and pictures that show something you develop captions for them. A caption find interesting. In general, get up is different from a title. “Stage 9,” The close and get plenty of light on your Buffet Line,” and “Sammy Shoots A subject. Always use a fill-in flash dur- Lot, SASS #445566,” are examples of ing the day on the range. Be creative “titles.” A caption is one to three sen- and look for great “action” photos … (Continued on page 88) Page 26 Cowboy Chronicle May 2007
CLIMATE CHANGE AND EXTINCTION ARE NATURE’S WAYS By Colonel Dan, SASS Life# 24025
cooling. When that didn’t align with explain the ice age glaciers retreat- facturing. Socialism, Fascism and historical facts, the cry from Al Gore ing north as the earth warmed Communism are the antitheses of and his ilk became global warming. before industrialization existed? that freedom. Under those systems, Colonel Dan, Now that this isn’t selling universal- Without getting into a lot of sci- government exercises control over SASS Life #24025 ly given record lows around the entific mumbo jumbo, the tempera- the markets and industry. world, the battle cry we hear today is ture of the earth is determined If politicians can convince you ow many out there really be- climate change. much more by fluctuating solar it’s those greedy capitalists that are Hlieve the fanatical environmen- Well, let’s talk about those his- emissions than by any man-made killing the atmosphere and as a tal movement in Washington is torical facts, Al. Our climate’s been emissions. That’s just the basic result, we’ll all die, they hope to spawned by a sincere concern for the changing since the beginning of time truth of it—a fact that doesn’t quite inspire a scream from the masses, in planet? If you raised your hand, I and long before man ever walked fit the purpose of the modern politi- the bastardized name of “democra- hate to burst your bubble, but for the the earth or drove an SUV. We’ve cal climate crusaders like Mr. Gore. cy,” for government to “do some- real answer, follow the money and gone through periods of warmth What does fit as an explanation for thing.” They will then step in and power, then watch where it leads. that turned into the ice age that this phony campaign is rooted in take control of our means of produc- Let’s consider two examples: the returned again to a period of power and control. tion … in order to save the world … climate crusade and animal warmth. Were that not the case, Capitalism is based on free of course. Climate crusaders are activism. how do you explain fossils of tropical choice, free markets, private property, simply using this indirect approach The mantra of political climate vegetation that are found in the and private control over the means of as a way of taking control over crusaders at one time was global Arctic Circle? Or how do you production; i.e., industry and manu- (Continued on next page) May 2007 Cowboy Chronicle Page 27
RESPONSE TO And if SASS wanted to, they could THERE’S JUST with – and for instance enjoy “action decide to adjust this limit upward even shooting sports” with their shotguns, MINIMUM higher, just as they did for the knockdown NO END … without the heavy recoil that annoys so RECOIL LOADS target load limit – which the author does- many sportspersons that are not using n’t mention. That rule alone would not You will not believe what I have just these guns in the hunting field, but pre- I liked the article by Arizona Tom on allow .22 loads or anything that light. So, bought … it’s an insert for a 12 gauge fer to use these widely available firearms Page 42 of the February Chronicle on min- if that potential shooting range he men- shotgun that is placed in the breech of for pastime and recreation.” imum recoil loads. And, I have heard the tions wanted to be regulation, they would the gun and accepts standard .22 cal Accompanying this advertisement on arguments in all previous Chronicles on have to at least have the minimum ammunition! You just put them in your TV was a sequence showing a shooter fir- the various sides of this issue. It is more knockdown load. side-by-side, load up two .22 cartridges, ing at Cowboy Action Shooting™ style complex than Arizona describes, as you It’s a tough line to draw. And there close your shotgun as you would regular- knockdown targets … know. has been a lot of discussion on all the ly do and fire away. Open the gun and Arizona Tom, SASS #30872 Bottom line is this: I download various rule changes over the years to the shells are extracted, put in two more Croatia because I am sick and tired being a loser! keep the line in the right place. But I – close the gun … I set up some shotgun The first year I used only full loads, and I wouldn’t mind setting a heavier mini- knockdowns and fired from 7-9 yards; the ALWAYS ended up at the bottom of the mum load, as long as it is across the targets went down. I clocked standard For AD heap, not the very bottom, but close board; – OR – add yet another category of .22 ammo at 630 fps out of these inserts. Rates enough that I could see the bottom. As full load shooters. Mind you this is not a haphazard long as there is a winner to the match Wild Rose Willie, contraption, but a factory made item the ~ DONNA ~ and a ranking, there will always be ways SASS #57197 owners of this German enterprise “see a (EXT. 118) to improve one’s ability to compete. Mounds View, MN need for so people can have fun, practice
CLIMATE CHANGE AND EXTINCTION ARE NATURE’S WAYS . . . front for a socialistic movement (Continued from previous page) rights. Unfortunately, that’s exactly cause, or trumped up excuse to intent on destroying our liberty in industry and manufacturing. what this “environmental move- instill more control over the good the name of preserving our climate or Now let’s consider this “animal ment” does. people of this great country. preserving some animal whose time activist” charade. I’m supremely Let’s just lay this out for all So let nature take its course with has come to fulfill nature’s plan for sick of all these groups that think we America to see. When you boil down the suckerfish and snail darter—and renewing the earth. should preserve every species on this incessant “made-for-TV-feel- by the way, I like warm climates— * * * * earth forever at the expense of the good-ism” what’s left is the underly- that’s why I live in Florida! And Just the view from my saddle… lives and land of the people who bear ing political objective of the environ- finally, to blazes with these eco-liber- Contact Colonel Dan: the impact today. mental and animal rights facade— als who are just some manipulated [email protected]