Saturday, August 13, 2011

Overheard at the gun store

I'm thinking about doing Appleseed next weekend, and they recommend a standard web sling for your rifle.  I went in search of one, alas, to no avail.  But #2 Son has been dieing for an SKS since TOTWTYTR let him shoot his.

And so I wandered up to the counter.  The conversation was brief.
Me: Do you have a Mil Surp section?

Gun Story Guy: Is that a brand?

Me:
I quite frankly didn't know what to say, and so I missed my chance to snark or something.  But holy smokes, wow.

The name of the Gun Store shall remain classified.  This is so weird that it must be a one-off bad day sort of thing.  Maybe he didn't understand my Yankee Drawl. 

10 comments:

  1. NonaAugust 13, 2011 at 6:55 PM

    Do the Appleseed! I think it's the best training you can find at that price. I've been to two Appleseeds and loved it each time -- and I really improved my marksmanship, too. Also, both times I attended one of the instructors had web slings for sale -- the same ones that are for sale on the Appleseed website, so if you can't find one before the class you may be able to buy one there.

    ReplyDelete
  2. Rev. PaulAugust 13, 2011 at 6:55 PM

    It's apparently the day for know-nothing, or alternately surly & smart-aleck, employees.

    ReplyDelete
  3. Old NFOAugust 13, 2011 at 7:11 PM

    Well, y'all DO kinda sound funny... :-)

    ReplyDelete
  4. SixAugust 13, 2011 at 7:41 PM

    I wish you were closer. I have an SKS, 2 Enfields (including a Jungle Carbine) and a Garand I want to sell.

    ReplyDelete
  5. Guffaw in AZAugust 13, 2011 at 10:16 PM

    Unfortunately, I've no military background. And, no one ever asked me that when I worked part time at the gun store.
    But I understood your question!
    What a maroon!

    ReplyDelete
  6. Old Radar TechAugust 14, 2011 at 12:19 AM

    You absolutely need to use a military sling. It will make a world of difference, and you will learn some new techniques.
    The web sling is faster and easier to adjust than the leather. Probably a better choice unless you end up shooting in the rain.

    I'm 3 hours or so north, if you strike out drop me a line.

    ReplyDelete
  7. doubletroubleAugust 14, 2011 at 12:26 AM

    Got my patch last year, & the Mrs. is going back in two weeks to get hers.

    Get a 10-22 (I hope you already have one)

    Have sling swivels installed

    The sling is the old issue M-1 sling w/a hook on the end (Appleseed sells them if you can't find one locally)

    Attach a 4x or so scope (old eyes & all)

    Get 5 magazines (you only NEED 4, but trust me on this)

    Get Rifleman patch.

    Gimme a call if you have questions.

    Good luck!

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  8. RogerAugust 14, 2011 at 8:37 AM

    Old radar has it right. The leather GI style sling is the best.
    If you equip your rifle with quick disconnect sling swivels, you can keep your adjusted sling on your arm & not have to wiggle into it for each string.
    A suggestion for handling the reloads. Load your 2 round mag, fire one shot then change mags. You won't have to go through the bolt release or re-cock maneuvers.
    Appleseed is a great thing, you'll learn a lot and shoot a lot.
    Good luck in getting your patch

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  9. MarkAugust 14, 2011 at 12:21 PM

    I recall a similar exchange with the guy working at the local BX gun shop.

    Me: "Do you carry any Buckmark .22s?"

    Him: (who could be working in the womens wear, or outdoor furniture section on any given day) "I don't know." (As he goes straight for the ammunition shelf.)

    Me: "Nevermind."

    ReplyDelete
  10. Mark HorningAugust 15, 2011 at 4:25 AM

    I've never liked or really felt comfortable using the web sling. Give me a good model 1907 sling any day. Your choice as to whether you sling it Army style, or Marine style.

    ReplyDelete

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