Odds ‘n Sods:

Our friend Michael Bane, a gun writer and video producer (of Down Range TV and “Shooting Gallery” on The Outdoor Channel) now has short review segments on Ruger’s new polymer frame SR9 and LCP .380 pistols. The latter, weighing only 9.4 ounces looks like a cross between a Seecamp and a Kel-Tec. I’m not a fan of the pipsqueak .380 ACP (9mm Kurz) cartridge, but a gun that is close at hand at all times is vastly superior to grasping at air when trouble arrives. Concealed carry is, after all, a compromise. If I was expecting trouble, I’d be carrying a .308 battle rifle–not any any sort of handgun. Be sure to check out Michael’s many blog articles and videos.

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Frequent content contributor RBS found this archive of useful solar cooking articles.

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Reader MGB suggested the “Trapped in Your Home” calculator page. After having read about modern tanning and leather preservative chemicals, I cannot concur with their mention of leather clothing and furniture as emergency food sources.

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Some commentary from Jim Jubak: Market ‘reforms’ a gift to Wall Street. His mention of the lack of regulation on derivatives contracts is right on target.