What Makes a Bowie Knife?

By Dylan Sabot

When James Black made his first Bowie knife for the legendary frontiersman in the early 1800s, he likely had no idea that he was creating a legend. This knife is renowned for its utility, its durability and, when self-defense is the issue, its lethality. This knife was designed to be an all-purpose tool and a deadly weapon. Since it was first designed, it has famously served both roles. This knife design went into battle with US troops from the Civil War on. It also was used widely by those heading into the unknown frontier of the nation.

A Bowie knife always has a single edge. Sometimes, the false edge at the end of the blade is sharpened, but this is not traditional. This single edge makes the knife more practical for myriad activities, including skinning, cleaning game and chopping. The powerful blade is what makes chopping possible and is another defining characteristic. In a pinch, these blades could serve as tools that could be used for many different survival needs.

Unlike most hunting knives, a Bowie knife has a wide and angled hand guard. This is also principally designed for its utility when fighting. The hand guard can deflect other weapons away from the user's hands-hands and arms are major targets in knife fights-and also prevents the user's hand from sliding up the blade if it meets heavy resistance from a thrust. As much as a Bowie is a tool of the frontier, it is also a weapon of war and its namesake owner was legendary for his skill with this particular weapon.

The end of a Bowie knife has a blade where the tip falls below the spine. This is a rare feature, sometimes seen on cutlasses and swords. It is principally designed to provide penetration when the knife is used for fighting. It also has the effect of making the knife lighter and more agile, which is as useful at camp as it is in a fight. When cleaning animals, the lighter portion of the blade at the end provides excellent control characteristics.

Bowie knives are useful tools but, in many jurisdictions, they are illegal to carry. These knives, after all, are weapons and are designed to be lethal. Before heading out of the house with one's Bowie strapped to one's leg, check local laws to make sure carrying such a fearsome knife is legal. - 31499

About the Author:

Dylan Sabot is the owner of an online bowie knife store featuring Cold Steel bowie knives for sale as well as humidors for storage.

Does Carrying Bowie Knives Require a Permit?

By Dylan Sabot

Bowie knives are impressive tools, useful in myriad different situations. They're used for hunting, for camping, for fishing and for defensive needs, as well. However, because of the bowie's size, you might wonder if you need a permit to own one of these knives. Do you need one to keep such a knife in your home? What about in your vehicle? Can you carry bowie knives in public, unconcealed, without such a permit? Do you need a permit to carry these knives concealed on your person? All of these are important questions and should be answered before you make any purchase decision.

In Your Home - Do you need a permit to own bowie knives and keep them in your home? The short answer to this is "no". You are legally allowed to possess these knives within your home and you can keep them wherever you see fit. You can display them, put one beside your bed, or hide them away for future needs. However, when carrying such a weapon outside your home, things become stickier.

In most states, you do not need a license to carry a knife, unless you plan to carry it concealed on your body. For instance, the state of Arizona allows you to conceal your bowie knife on your person in public, so long as you have a permit to carry a concealed weapon. That said, some states take a very dim view of bowie knives and other large knives. Take Washington DC for example: you cannot carry any knife over 3 inches long, whether concealed or in the open. Therefore, you need to check with your state's laws before you take your knife out in public.

The question of taking your bowie knife on a hunting, camping or fishing trip is quite different from "carrying it in public". As these knives are designed for outdoors use, most states do not prohibit you from using them or carrying them without a permit if you will be engaged in an activity for which the knife was designed (a legal activity, of course).

By informing yourself ahead of time regarding your rights involving bowie knives, you can stay on the good side of the law and enjoy the use of these tools. You should also ensure that you follow any laws governing the carrying of bowie knives in your vehicle, as well. - 31499

About the Author:

Dylan Sabot is the owner of an online bowie knives store featuring the Cold Steel training knife as well as butane lighters for camping.

The Truth Behind Loud Motorcycle Pipes !!!

By L.J. James

I have been reading and hearing allot lately about people who are saying that loud Motorcycle Pipes are a major problem in the world. These groups are trying to get those in Government to pass all sorts of new inspection laws for Motorcycle Pipes.

Seeing as Motorcycles make up such a small percentage of the Traffic on the road I would say this problem is very minimal at best. ( I wonder how many cars with bad mufflers are heard that many think are Motorcycles)

These people complain saying Motorcycle Riders like loud pipes because they are juvenile and want to show off and say Hey look at me and draw attention to themselves.

The reason many Bikers like loud pipes is not to say look at me, its to say look out for Me! Many Car drivers these days are talking on the phone, texting , putting on make up , eating , playing loud music , watching Dvds and just not paying attention to the road in front of them. If your in a car an you get hit ,You may get a dent in your car, We could Die! (Nothing enjoyable in life is completely safe)

These groups against loud pipes know gathering citizens together to complain is very easy , if they ask people while they are sitting around all summer long bored "Have you ever heard a Loud Motorcycle Go By?" they are going to say yes they Have!" These groups are then going to talk about how annoying these Motorcycles are and convince these bored people how much better their lives would be if these Motorcycles where gone! These bored people are going to jump right on board!

But now ask these same people when was the last time you heard a loud Motorcycle go by? They will probably hard pressed to find an answer! Was it Weeks ago? Months ago? was it Two years ago?

There are already laws on the books in every state that say a Motorcycles pipes can only be so loud! We do not need new laws on the books that most officers will do nothing about while others will abuse !

This Country spends too much time whining about things! Lets stop and think about Motorcycles. Motorcycles prevent traffic, They prevent wear and tear on the roads, They are great for saving Fuel. They are also a great relaxer, Those who Ride Motorcycles are a lot less stressed!

If people stopped complaining about Motorcycles and went and rode a Motorcycle they might not be so bored with their lives and they would have something better to do with their time!!!

Those who Ride enjoy Life a lot More, This is like therapy and religion all rolled up into one for us! Please do not bring the stress and problems of your dull boring lives into our world !

If you are that board and are looking for something to do with your life email me and I will help you find something better to do with your time. Maybe we can find something you can do that could actually help make the world a better place!!!

I am Your Bro LJ James AmericanBikerX.com - 31499

About the Author:

LJ hosts a Biker Radio Show that helps people who do not know about the real Motorcycle world instead of action drama like Sons of Anarchy

What Lengths Do Bowie Knife Blades Come In?

By Dylan Sabot

When it comes time to purchase a new bowie knife, you most likely have a specific size range in mind. However, you will find that these knives come in a surprising number of different sizes, from the smallest four-inch bowie knife to enormous machetes that feature the same blade design, but span more than two full feet. Which size is right for your needs? What makes one blade size better than another? Actually, you will find that each size blade is ideal for some rather specific things.

You will find that bowie knives come in blade sizes ranging from a compact six inches all the way up to a full two feet. This tremendous range of sizes is testament to the wide range of uses this blade design can be put to without damaging the knife. However, what size is right for you? In order to answer this question successfully, you will need to know more about your intended uses. While bowie knives are well known for their versatile nature, different blade lengths are more suited to different tasks. How do you determine what's right?

While the smaller blades mentioned above are certainly convenient, you will find that medium length blades are the most common. These run between six inches in length all the way up to about twelve inches in length. Such a blade is the perfect bowie knife for things like skinning prey or helping around the campsite. These blades are more than versatile, which is the reason that they are so enormously popular with such a wide range of knife owners. You will also find the widest range of handle materials, handle designs, blade designs and manufacturer's names in this size range, as well.

Midrange blades, those between eight and twelve inches, are good for a variety of different tasks. While they might not offer the same degree of control as their shorter brethren do, these bowie knives make up for it with greater versatility. In fact, you can use these as butcher knives quite easily, or to chop small sticks for the fire. Of course, you will find that these blades are not the limit to bowie knives. Larger blades do exist.

Blades larger than about twelve inches are a bit more unwieldy than smaller blades are. However, they are ideal for heavy chopping and can even be used to clear brush in a pinch. However, because of their immense size, carrying these blades can be a bit difficult though you will find that they are more than eye-catching when worn. - 31499

About the Author:

Dylan Sabot is the owner of an online bowie knifes store featuring the cold steel bowie knife as well as lighters for camping.

Picking Out the Best Deer Hunting Rifle for You

By John Eagleheart

One of the most important decisions for you to make in your hunting career is what deer rifle you should purchase. The keys to achieving your deer hunting goals come in the form of the best firearm for you. When you go to pick out a firearm, you want the one with the best style, action, sighting, size, and ballistics for your hunting area and physical capabilities. Whether or not you make the kill is largely reliant on whether or not your deer hunting rifle matches up best with the criteria above.

Where Will You Be Hunting?

There are two main kinds of deer hunting environments, deep woods or dense brush country and open range country. Some locations are a combination of both environments. Each environment commands its own unique shooting style and rifle traits.

Deer Hunting Rifles for Deep Woods or Dense Brush

Deer hunting rifles that work best in the woods are rifles made for medium or short range shooting. Most of the time, you'll only be shooting from a distance of twenty-five to two hundred yards. So, having a deer hunting rifle that's relatively light (nine pounds or less, including the scope) with a short barrel length (twenty two inches or less) is best. It's important to be able to move quickly and easily through densely wooded areas. You may also want to consider rifles that have automatic functions and are easy to reload. It's fairly common, when deer hunting in rough country, that you end up needing to take multiple shots in quick succession in order to make your kill. I would recommend using heavy bullet cartridges, .270 caliber or greater, with at least a 120 grain bullet, in order to penetrate any brush that might be in the way of your intended target. Any cartridges that travel more than 2200 feet per second have a higher chance of being deflected by the brush, and are therefore not well suited to densely wooded terrain. If your hunting terrain only allows shots to be taken within 50 yards or less of the intended target, you may want to consider using an open sight. If not, I would recommend a scope with four power, or a variable scope that can get down to 3X. You may want to conduct a few experiments at your local rifle range to figure out whether or not open site shooting suits your hunting style.

Deer Hunting Rifles for the Open Range

Deer hunting rifles which are good performers in open areas are those designed for longer range shooting, up to three hundred yards or farther. Rifle portability is not as important as accuracy and velocity in long shot situations and the rifles will be heavier and with longer barrel lengths than deep woods rifles. In open range shooting, high velocity rifle calibers and cartridges are needed. Calibers in the 6MM (.243) range or higher will be satisfactory and bullets from 100 grain up will perform well. Generally, the larger the caliber is, the heavier the bullet will need to be for the best ballistic accuracy. Scopes with a 6 X 9 variable power are what most shooters will need at the very least.

Personal Preferences

When you start looking for the best deer hunting rifle for you, you want to make sure that you keep the above considerations in mind. Make sure that you are comfortable with the way that you're shooting, and how you shoot when using a high caliber or magnum caliber rifle. Do you really want to lug ten or twelve pounds of long rifle with you around your deer hunting terrain?

Visit a nearby hunting rifle dealer and test out various models, kinds, and sizes from different makers of deer hunting rifles to see what feels good. Whenever you have the chance, ask successful hunters what they use and why. Ask friends to permit you to hold and handle their rifles and find out what you like and dislike about it. - 31499

About the Author:

You can learn a lot more about deer hunting rifles and other advanced deer hunting tips by visiting our website here Deer Hunting. And you can learn about choosing the best deer hunting rifle here: Deer Hunting Rifle.

Airsoft: Shooting Range Rifles Assassin In The Field

By Randolph Metzelson

Shooting range rifles are made for a very specific area for firing. The area or firing zone is heavily guarded with masters. These guys are the only person allowed to guard the facility for crazy shooters and by-standers who want to mess with the shooters. Airsoft. World's leader in combat sports has been more influential than firing real guns.

This possibly can be done outdoor. This place for shooting is design to serve heavy bullets that may penetrate the walls. These walls were design to counter the bullet's penetrating power. Some of them are made of some specialized walls.

One thing I hate about paintball game is its high risk when being hit by the paint. Common results may drop down from itches up to serious skin allergies. People who play Airsoft and shooting range rifle toys are not experiencing the same effect of itchiness on the skin. What's made it more popular is that, the game can be played by kids and adults. For adults like me who play Airsoft is like a childhoods dream to become an arm forces soldier. The other thing that makes the game a hit is because of its applicability for military training.

Its counter part suffers from messy clothes, which is tiring to wash after the game. The Airsoft pellets can fire up to a 50 meter long, the paint balls cannot. The toys and guns used in the game are also different with paintball, making it more available since it is cheap.

Guns and rifles used in the game is something that a paintball game has not. What I like most in this game is that, you could act as like a real player in the game, and fortunately it helps you react in more accidents and emergency. It will develop your agility towards short range crimes. Militia's look like are common in the game. This is really for something who has been dreaming of their childhood's fantasies. I had a couple of machine guns that had been developed for this game. Customization is sometimes important, though not really, but for aesthetic purposes, they are useful.

Some of the guns are made in metallic shades. Not just that, plastic framing and metal had been a common material in most of the guns. Mostly, many wanted to have thus high caliber barrels, but with respect to its weight, id rather uses Ingram's guns unlike m16 rifles. What's more, a combination of a short range gun, 45 caliber semi automatic guns and a high caliber Ingram, could help you move faster, then a combination of a 45 and an m-16 rifles? However, still, you could also have more than 2 guns as much as it is approved by the judges.

Some teams are hiring shooting range rifle experts to be a part of the group and be there snipers. What I also hate is, they are just setting back and not really enjoying the game. In a tactical analysis, snipers are the only hope of most teams, but likely as I said, a boring role to play with. The tactics that had been improving by the snipers are important in the defense and offense of a team.

One thing that is common in the market today is the CO2 gas pistol. Though it is not cheap, others still prepare to use conventional ones. It is also a good investment to take part with. Some collect guns and sold at higher prices. - 31499

About the Author:

Guns are a part of many people's lives. If not for sporting reasons, then guns are kept by people for protection. If you own a gun then you should really consider the importance of getting a Gun Cabinet. Get more information on Gun Cabinets here!

The Perfect Scope for Your Deer Hunting Rifle Part 2

By John Eagleheart

This is part two of our three part series on choosing the best scope for your deer hunting rifle. In part one we looked at the magnification range and objective lens size of your scope. This article will examine the light transmission, lenses & coatings, and field of view choices you have.

Understanding Light Transmission Qualities In Your Scope

As the magnification increases, the light getting to your eyepiece decreases. As the objective lens increases, the light getting through your eyepiece will also increase. By nature, scopes lose some light as it travels through the scope to your eyes. Even the highest quality and most expensive scopes only achieve a light transmission rate of around 98%. While anything over 95% for light transmission is considered great, there are very nice, quality scopes that are around 90%.

Taking Note of the Lenses and Coatings of the Scope.

Most of the quality scopes you can find today are fog proof, waterproof, and have lenses that are coated. The coatings on the lenses can be quite expensive. Plus, lenses vary in the type, number, and quality of the coatings. You need to realize that there are times that a scope with single coated lenses will easily perform better than a scope with multicoated lenses. How well they function depends on what quality the glass and coatings are. Remember, good quality coatings and glass do not come with a small price tag. Coatings are designed to decrease the amount of glare and loss of light as a result of reflection. Normally a coating will allow for better light transmission and sharper contrast in what you are looking at.

Understanding The Field Of View Of Your Scope

How much you see out of your scope in terms of its entire area, 100 yards in front of you, is called field of view. This figure goes down when you increase the lens magnification of the scope. The reverse is true as well, with better field of vision and lower magnification. If you have a 3x9 variable scope, the 3 power will give you a 30 foot field of view, but only a 14 feet FOV at the 9 power setting, which is dramatically different. You won't get better field of view with a bigger objective lens.

To read the complete article on choosing the best scope for your deer hunting rifle you can visit our webpage dedicated solely to deer rifle telescopic sights. - 31499

About the Author:

If you want to know about what deer hunting rifle scope to use, and other deer hunting tips that can help you, check out Deer Rifle Scopes - You can also get our latest eBook, "Secrets of Finding Monster Bucks Revealed" for free at Secrets of Finding Monster Bucks Revealed.