Open A Soccer Store

Soccer is played and watched by ever increasing numbers both in person and on television. According to the market research group Black & Co., the size of the business is 5 billion dollars a year in the United States alone, and growing. A soccer store in a good location could be a profitable business for you, too. This article defines the steps to take in order to open a successful soccer store, including some opening day guidelines.

Instructions

Open A Soccer Store

1. Develop your business plan which essentially tells you how financially viable your soccer store can be, given expected store traffic, revenues and expenses. A new mall near a soccer playing school would have good potential, especially if your contract can provide that no direct competitor may open a similar store in the mall of your choice.

2. Register the business with the government agencies as required by law and secure all other licenses required. Federal, state, regional, county and city governments would have licensing requirements that you need to have before you can open a store.

3. Register the business with the government agencies as required by law and secure all other licenses required.

4. Hire the personnel needed for the store, starting with your store manager then the store sales assistant and backroom and inventory assistant. Your best source for these would be those with experience in the exact same business but if these are not available, those with experience in other sports apparel or sports stores will suffice. A headhunter agency could be helpful.

5. Construct or purchase the necessary racks and shelves, cabinets and drawers for your inventory and other needs.

6. Order the products for your initial inventory, including promotional items such as posters and possible giveaways for your store opening. You could start by contacting the different distributors of the name brands of soccer gear and equipment such as Adidas, Nike, Puma and Reebok.

7. For your store opening day besides arranging your product display attractively, invite a guest of honor such as a national soccer figure, as well as potential customers from the surrounding areas. Decorate the store and its outside perimeter with colorful banners and posters of famous soccer players and teams, and serve inexpensive but tasteful bites and drinks.

Tags: your store, your store opening, agencies required, agencies required secure, business with

Starting A Club Business

Starting a Club Business

Choose Location and Crowd

Before starting a club, the prospective owner has to have a good idea of the crowd that she is seeking to attract. This will help guide all of the owner's future decisions about set up and promote the club. The type of crowd also gives the club owner an idea of where the club should be located. For instance, if a business person wants to open a club for cost-conscious college students, it would probably choose a location within walking distance to a college campus, offer cheap beers, and advertise beer specials.

Insure the Business

You cannot operate a nightclub (and sleep at night) without having full nightclub insurance coverage for the club. Nightclub insurance can be fairly expensive compared to other insurance options, but it is worth every penny when you think of the money that a night club owner can lose if things go awry. Nightclub insurance includes property, casualty, and liquor insurance. So if there is any type of loss at the club, the business is covered.

Find Suppliers

A dance club would be nothing without supplies, including liquor, beer, and food. The prospective club owner has to quickly develop relationships with liquor and food distributors in the area for regular deliveries.

Design the Club

Once the club owner settles on a location, the next step is bringing in a crew to take care of the club design, including the floors, walls, and bar. The bar is the central part of the club---besides the bathroom, the bar is one of the first places that people visit when they enter a club. The club designers or owner will also be responsible for purchasing bar stools, tables, chairs, and other items.

Hire Employees

When a new club or bar is opening, the owners will usually hold a recruiting session for bartenders, barbacks, waiters, bouncers, DJs, and kitchen staff. These employees need to be hired well in advance of the club opening so that they can be trained.

Promotion

The main goal of a new club owner is to bring as many people into the club on opening night (and beyond) as possible. To do this, the owner will hire promotional teams who are responsible for getting the word out about the club to the local and extended community with flyers, radio campaigns, and word of mouth advertising.

Tags: club owner, club opening, Nightclub insurance, owner will, Starting Club Business

Gun Shooting Games

Many video games challenge players to use a gun accurately.

Across many different gaming genres, guns are often used as weapons to dispatch enemies. Whether playing a war simulation, role playing game, or adventure game, shooting is often an important skill to have in video games. Players must be both quick and accurate with guns in order to succeed. Gamers who enjoy games featuring guns can find titles on virtually any console and computer game players have plenty of options as well.

"Mass Effect 2"

Electronic Arts released "Mass Effect 2" for PC and Xbox 360 gamers in January 2010. "Mass Effect 2" takes place in outer space in the future. The main character, Shepard, is sent out on a series of missions to find out what is happening to large groups of humans that are going missing. To help in the cause, Shepard must also find capable soldiers to join his side. Players are given several guns to choose from in order to fend off opponents.

"Medal of Honor Allied Assault"

Electronic Arts released "Medal of Honor Allied Assault" for PC and Mac computers in January 2002. In "Allied Assault", players must complete missions and objectives as a World War II soldier in the Allied forces. Players must master shooting multiple types of World War II-era guns to eliminate opponents. All events in "Allied Assault" are seen from the main character’s point of view, and there are cinematic scenes to fill gamers in on plot developments.

"Perfect Dark"

Nintendo released the shooting game "Perfect Dark" exclusively for the Nintendo 64 console in May 2000. The main character in "Perfect Dark" is a government agent named Joanna Dark. Dark must help a group of aliens in their battle against a rival group and the corporation backing them. Players are given multiple missions in different locations, and objectives must be met to pass each one. To take down enemies, players must learn to be proficient with a number of different guns.

"Red Dead Redemption"

Rockstar Games released "Red Dead Redemption" for PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360 in May 2010. "Red Dead Redemption" is unique in that it takes place in the Wild West. Players partake in the action as a cowboy named John Marston who heads to a new town. Marston must help strangers, complete missions, and win gun shooting duels. "Red Dead Redemption" features many weapons from the game’s time period, including shotguns and lassos. As players progress in the game, they gain fame while also gaining or losing points of honor depending on the nature of their actions.

Tags: Allied Assault, Dead Redemption, Mass Effect, Perfect Dark, Arts released, complete missions, Electronic Arts

Rezero A Barska Scope

Barska Optics makes a series of rifle scopes for hunting and tactical use. The rifle scope product line includes standard hand-operated scopes and those with electronic and laser calibrations. The process of zeroing out a Barska scope depends on the type of scope. A scope should be "re-zeroed" when its crosshairs are no longer accurately calibrated. Re-zeroing essentially "resets" the scope so you zero it in again to your liking.

Instructions

1. Place the safety of the rifle to "On" and point it away from people, preferably down a target shooting range. Bring the rifle up to the firing position and look down the Barska scope.

2. Turn the windage and elevator dials, found on the right side and top-center respectively, counterclockwise until they no longer turn. Look down the scope and see the focus is now off, the target appears fuzzy and the crosshairs are not aligned. This has zeroed out the scope. This is the standard scope method to re-zero.

3. Grip the slider on the left side of the eye piece on a Barska laser scopes. Pull the ridged slider back and hold it to reset the laser calibration, thus re-zeroing it for use.

4. Adjust the windage and elevation dials on the laser scope as in Step 1 and 2, once the laser is zeroed.

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Get A Cat Out Of A Tree

It is important to remain calm if your kitten or cat gets caught in a tree. She is probably quite freaked out, and you, as the owner, need to help her calm down.

Instructions

1. Avoid mass panic. Given time and privacy, the cat will likely find a way down on her own. (Exceptions are if the cat is injured or if she has a leash wrapped around her neck; go to step 4 in those instances.)

2. If several hours have passed, try to lure the cat down by opening a can of her favorite food underneath the tree. Call out her name in a calm, reassuring voice.

3. Lean a wooden ladder up against the tree near the cat so she can climb down. Leave her alone with the ladder for at least 15 minutes so she can climb down on her own.

4. If the cat is too freaked out to use the ladder, put on work gloves and a thick coat to protect yourself and climb up the ladder to retrieve her. Make sure the ladder is stable before you climb it.

5. Grab the cat by the nape of the neck to reduce your chances of getting scratched and to induce calmness in the cat.

6. If your efforts only send the cat farther up the tree, call an animal shelter or a local humane society. A professional animal handler can rescue the cat quite quickly.

Tags: climb down

Make A Paintball Pistol

Paintball has evolved from an underground sport to a major extreme sport with players from many walks of life participating in its fast-paced action. Unfortunately, the sport can be quite expensive when starting out as a novice. Luckily, you can make an inexpensive paintball marker from parts found at your local hardware store.

Instructions

1. Understand the principles involved. The paintball gun simply converts stored energy to kinetic energy. Some sort of compressed gas (often compressed air) is stored in a reservoir (or pressure vessel) and released suddenly down a constrictive pathway, propelling the paintball from the pathway to the target. It is a simple concept that can be easily understood and used to make a paintball pistol.

2. Design your project around household items. PVC plumbing pipes and fittings can be ideal for creating the barrel, pressure vessel and trigger mechanism for the paintball marker. Three-quarter inch PVC piping should accommodate the standard .68 caliber paintballs found at most stores. Look for valves with large handles for quick release of stored energy for your trigger mechanism. The PVC piping used for the air reservoir needs to be pressure tested to ensure that it can stand up to the forces exerted by compressed air. To fill the pressure vessel with air, a standard tire inflation valve can be installed.

3. Assess and refine your skills. If you are accustomed to working with PVC pipe, fittings, solvents and glues, then this project shouldn't offer too much of a challenge. However, if you have no experience with these products, consider talking to someone who is more knowledgeable (such as the clerk in the plumbing department at your local hardware store). Also, it is advisable to buy extra parts as back-up in case you make a mistake.

4. Put it together. Once you have designed your project, feel comfortable with your skills, and have purchased the necessary parts, it is time to assemble the paintball pistol. It is a good idea to do any prep work (such as cutting your pipe to the correct length and test-fitting your parts without glue) before you begin making the paintball gun. Once you begin, you need to glue your components together and allow adequate curing time.

5. Test the paintball gun for safety. Commercial paintball guns undergo a battery of tests to ensure their safety for use on people in paintball games. Most homemade paintball markers lack the sophistication (such as air pressure regulators) to safely be used for such purposes. Try your paintball pistol out in a controlled environment, enjoy it safely and decide if you would like to upgrade to a commercial model.

Tags: paintball pistol, pressure vessel, hardware store, local hardware, local hardware store, paintball marker

Materials Needed For Making Ghillie Suits

Good camouflage is of utmost importance to the sniper or hunter, who must remain undetected to be successful.

A ghillie suit, often called a leaf suit, is the trademark of any traditional sniper whether in paintball, airsoft, hunting or on a real battlefield. Though buying your ghillie suit is an option, they are often expensive and not perfectly tailored to your field of battle. The advantages to making your own suit include perfect fit, camouflage that works with your surroundings and the personal satisfaction obtained from completing such a project. To make your suit, you first need to have the right materials.

Construction Materials

To fashion a ghillie suit, you will need several small, generally inexpensive items to help with cutting, dying, fastening and so on. You will need the following: scissors (to cut netting and jute), fabric dye (colors including tan, olive, forest green, dark green, brown, gray and black), sewing needles (to attach netting), waxed dental floss (to sew with in lieu of thread, which is too weak) and polyurethane-based adhesive (such as Shoe Goo, to secure sewn netting). These are all available at any local superstore.

Base Materials

The modern ghillie suit has a relatively simple design. There are three layers: BDU's, netting and camouflage material. The two parts that create the base of the ghillie suit are necessary, but are flexible in the materials that you can use. You will need a set of BDU's (Battle Dress Uniform), which are the typical camouflage fatigues worn by Army personnel. These can be purchased at Army surplus stores, or you can order them online. Choose woodland camouflage if you have the option. BDU's are best because they provide a camouflage base, so if your twine moves on the ghillie suit, only the camo underneath is visible. They are also sturdier than most hunting clothing. Secondly, you will need some heavy-duty, dark-colored netting. A black volleyball net will serve this purpose well. You need enough to cover both front and back of your body.

Thread-Dying Materials

One of the most important and time-consuming aspects of creating your own ghillie suit is choosing the right kind of camouflage. Before executing this step, go to the area where you feel you will be using the suit most and examine the colors. For example, jungle-type settings will use lighter greens, thick forest will use dark green and brown and desert settings will use tan. You will be using jute twine, which can be purchased at most arts and crafts stores. You will need a couple of pounds of it. Exact amounts will vary from suit to suit. You will need storage bins (equal to the number of colors you are using) to dye the jute in, metal clothing hangers to hang them on to dry, plastic gloves to handle them while they are wet and a stirring utensil to move them around.

Other Materials

In addition to all of the above materials, you may find the addition of several other tools helpful. For example, spray paint can be used to give new dimensions of color to your suit or help modify it later if you change environments. You can also purchase a boonie hat and use leftover materials to create ghillie-style head-gear. Alternately, if you are playing airsoft or paintball, you can use the materials from above and make a ghillie paintball mask. Additionally, the use of a hairdryer can speed both the drying of the jute and the Shoe Goo. Finally, you can take small branches and leaves from the area in which you will use your suit and weave them into the design to further enhance the camouflage.

Tags: ghillie suit, will need, your suit, dark green, dark green brown, green brown

Paintball Paint Removal

Paintball paint can be difficult to remove, as paintballs usually explode on impact at a high rate of speed, causing the paint to quickly penetrate the surface. There are a few easy ways to remove paintball paint from clothing, homes and vehicles. These solutions are both inexpensive and easy to make right in your own home. Does this Spark an idea?

Paintball Paint on a Home

Removing paintball paint from brick homes can be an easy process if you know what ingredients to use. First, wash the area with a soap and water solution (liquid dish detergent will work well). Use your garden hose on a high power stream to break up as much of the stain as possible. Then, use hydrogen peroxide to further work the stain. Paintballs are made from oil-based paint, which breaks up easily when in contact with hydrogen peroxide. Dab a cloth or a few cotton balls in the peroxide and rub over the paintball stain until all the paint has been removed. Rinse again with the garden hose to remove any excess paint or peroxide residue.

Paintball Paint on a Car

To remove paintball paint from a car exterior, first wash the car as you normally would. Use a mild car-washing detergent, warm water and a sponge or cloth. Then dry the area with a towel. Use a bug-and-tar-removing product by dabbing a few drops onto a cloth or paper towel, then rubbing over the paintball stain. Repeat as necessary until the paintball paint has been removed, then rinse the area to remove any additional paintball paint or cleaning-product residue.

Paintball Paint on Clothing

Getting paintball paint out of clothing usually requires nothing more than a normal wash in the laundry. Wash clothing as soon as possible after your clothing has come in contact with a paintball, and if it does not wash out in the first wash cycle, add a stain remover, let sit for 30 minutes and launder again. For white clothes, add a bit of bleach to your laundry cycle to work as an added cleaning agent.

Tags: paintball paint, paint from, paintball paint from, area with, been removed

Reload Data For 25 Acp

The .25-caliber ACP (Automatic Colt Pistol) is a diminutive centerfire cartridge designed by John Browning. The cartridge originally was used in small, semi-automatic "pocket" pistols such as the FN model 1905. It was introduced in the United States in 1908 with the Colt .25 "Vest Pocket" pistol. Its low muzzle energy and poor terminal ballistics make it unsuitable for either hunting or target shooting, and it is only marginally effective as a self-defense cartridge. Because of its small size and low case volume, safely reloading the .25 ACP cartridge requires both an accurate powder scale and extreme attention to detail.

Instructions

1. Prepare the common components for your reloading session. While the specific bullet type and propellant you use will depend upon the specifications for your chosen load (called a "recipe" by handloaders), the process will always require clean, lubricated brass casings and small pistol primers. Also ensure that your powder scale is properly calibrated because the small .25 ACP cartridge is very sensitive to variations in propellant weight.

2. Resize and remove the spent primers from your brass casings by running them through the sizing/decapping die on your reloading press. Press a new primer into each cartridge using the hand priming tool. After priming, place all cartridges in a cartridge tray with the case mouth facing upward.

3. Charge each casing with propellant according to your selected handload's recipe. Self-defense load recipes use a 50-grain FMJ (full metal jacket) bullet. Match this bullet weight with a load of 1.2 or 1.3 grains of Bullseye powder, or a load of 1.4 to 1.6 grains of Accurate Arms Number 2. Be careful not to over-charge any of the casings.

4. Run each cartridge through the bullet seating die on your press to seat and crimp the 50-grain FMJ bullet. Use your precision calipers to measure a sampling of the finished cartridges to ensure they fall within the mechanical tolerance for the .25 ACP's overall cartridge length. The acceptable range for cartridge length is from 0.908 inch to 0.910 inch.

Tags: brass casings, cartridge length, each cartridge, load grains, powder scale, your reloading

Local Hotels In Mesquite Texas

Mesquite is a suburb of Dallas, Texas.

Founded in 1873, Mesquite is located in north central Texas and is just east of Dallas. Residents enjoy over 220 days of sunshine in any given year and the city has become a logistics hub for the greater Dallas-Fort Worth area. Mesquite is also home to manufacturing and service-based industries. Being at the convergence of four interstate highways, as well as its close location to Dallas, a number of hotels in the city service travelers, workers and visitors.

Hampton Inn and Suites Dallas-Mesquite

The Hampton Inn and Suites is one of a handful of hotels clustered in southern Mesquite near the Rodeo Arena, home of the Mesquite Championship Rodeo. The hotel provides free Internet and breakfast, and features a pool and fitness center. Several restaurants are nearby, including McDonald's, KFC, Taco Bell, IHOP, Waffle House and Dairy Queen. The hotel is one mile south of the AMC Theatres Mesquite 30, one of the largest movie theaters in the world. It's also within walking distance of the Mesquite Memorial Stadium, one of the largest high school football stadiums in Texas.

Courtyard Dallas Mesquite

East of Dallas at the meeting of Interstates 30 and 635, the Courtyard Dallas Mesquite offers free wireless Internet, a hot breakfast buffet, an indoor pool and whirlpool, and a fitness center. The hotel is just north of id Software's head office, a Mesquite-based company that has developed Wolfenstein 3-D, Doom, and other video games. The Celebration Station, featuring video and redemption games, bumper boats, batting cages, paintball, laser tag, mini golf, rock climbing wall and go-karts, is next to the hotel. The Olive Garden, Outback Steakhouse and Red Lobster are also within a half-mile of the property.

Days Inn Dallas - East/Mesquite

The Days Inn in western Mesquite is conveniently positioned on State Route 80. It is 2 miles west of the Town East Mall and central Mesquite and located near the former site of the Big Town Mall. When the mall was built in 1959 it was the first enclosed, air-conditioned shopping mall in the Southwest. Rooms at the hotel feature microwaves, refrigerators and satellite television. Nearby restaurants include the Sonic Drive-In, Romano's Macaroni Grill, McDonald's, Applebee's Neighborhood Grill and Bar, Golden Corral Buffet and Grill, Texas Roadhouse and Joe's Crab Shack.

La Quinta Inn and Suites Mesquite

Western Mesquite is home to a small number of hotels, including the pet-friendly La Quinta Inn and Suites Mesquite. Rated by AAA as a three-diamond property, the hotel is 10 miles from downtown Dallas. All rooms are equipped with free high-speed Internet, television, refrigerator, microwave and coffee maker. The hotel provides an on-site fitness center, heated indoor pool with spa, and free hot breakfast. The 10-screen Starplex Mesquite Cinema is less than a 10 minute walk away, and Walmart Supercenter, Wendy's, Waffle House, McDonald's, Taco Cabana and Sonic Drive-In are next to the hotel.

Tags: fitness center, also within, Courtyard Dallas, Courtyard Dallas Mesquite, Dallas Mesquite, Hampton Suites, hotel provides

Homemade Paintball Gun Stocks

Homemade Paintball Gun Stocks

A homemade stock for your paintball gun or marker can be both simple and cheap. With little effort, the owner can build a suitable stock for their shooting wants and needs. All types of materials and shapes are incorporated into the fabrication of homemade stocks. With endless possibilities, you can build your own stock no matter your budget or your expertise in working with your hands.

Deciding if a stock is right for you

If you are a serious paintball player, you must first decide if adding a stock to your gun is right for you. If you are in need of more accuracy, adding a stock may be right for your marker. However, if you will be on the run when shooting your marker, a stock can be cumbersome and affect your ability to fire when mobile. Adding a stock will improve the accuracy and stability of your gun, but it may make firing on the move more difficult.

Choosing a material

Homemade stocks can be made from any number of materials. Wood, plastic or PVC pipe and metal are the most common material for stock fabrication. Carbine is a common material in all types of stock fabrication but is costlier and more difficult to work with than wood or PVC. The weight of your chosen material will have a direct affect on the weight and balance of the gun so decide which material is right for your specific gun and need.

Types of stocks

Wooden stocks can make your marker carry the look and feel of a real gun. Wooden stocks are cut from wood and shaped to the desired shape. The wood can be cut to a wider width to create stability and control, or a wooden stock can be cut smaller to provide less restriction of movement. Most wooden stocks can be connected to the gun by screws.

Homemade stocks made of PVC piping or other plastic are simple and cost-effective. The plastic can be cut with a simple hand saw or any number of electric saws. Cotton can be used to pad the plastic and provide shoulder comfort. Simple duct tape can be used to connect the pieces of plastic or piping to one another or a PVC "T" fitting.

To fabricate homemade stocks made of metal requires some expertise in the field of welding and metal work. Metal stocks will also be heavier for the owner to carry and may prove more difficult when connecting the stock to the gun, as welding may be required when connecting a metal stock to the gun or marker.

A foldable stock helps provide the accuracy of a regular stock and the maneuverability of having no stock at all. The foldable stock will close on a hinge which folds the stock back against the length of the gun. The owner must be sure that the folding stock will not come in contact with other appendages of the gun such as hoppers or air tanks.

Stocks can be made from any number of other materials. For instance, the shoulder end of a crutch could be made to fit your gun. Also, a stock may be taken from a real gun and cut to fit your specific marker.

Tags: more difficult, stock will, stocks made, your marker, adding stock, common material, foldable stock

What Are Three Historical Facts About The Invention Of Heinz Ketchup

Heinz ketchup in the signature bottle

Heinz ketchup is a staple among many restaurants and diners, but there is much more to the red tomato sauce than just the perfect pairing with french fries. Henry John Heinz invented ketchup in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania in 1876 as a way to spice up American cuisine. Since that time hot dogs, hamburgers and, of course, french fries, have never been the same. Add this to my Recipe Box.

Cat Sup was the Inspiration Behind Ketchup

In 1876 Henry John Heinz invented ketchup by altering a recipe for Cat Sup, an Asian fish sauce that was put on everything. Prior to this adaptation, ketchup did not exist, although the Heinz company did. The Heinz, Noble & Company was started in 1869 by 25-year-old H.J. Heinz and L.C. Noble.

The "57" is Just a Number

H.J. Heinz coined the phrase "57 varieties," which helped market all the Heinz products and showcase the wide variety of condiments offered to spice up the bland American cuisine. Even before "57 varieties" became a household phrase, the Heinz company had more than 57 products. H.J. Heinz played around with the phrase using different numbers, but the "57" stuck and can still be seen on Heinz products today.

Ketchup was Not the First Product from Heinz

H.J. Heinz and L.C. Noble started the company bottling Heinz's mother's horseradish recipe. They choose to use clear glass bottles to show off the quality of the contents. Soon the business expanded to include vinegar, pickles and sauerkraut. Ketchup became the number one selling product for Heinz soon after the invention and remains so today.

Other Notable Facts

Heinz ketchup recipe has remained the same for the most part since the recipe first originated. Ketchup is no longer made in the original Heinz manufacturing plant in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, although Heinz still owns the building and produces tuna fish and cat food there. The company has expanded far beyond the "57" varieties, now selling more than 6,000 products in 200 countries worldwide.

Tags: Heinz Noble, although Heinz, American cuisine, french fries, Heinz company

Buy Used Guns

There are a lot of advantages to buying a used gun. You can usually get all the features that you want, at a fraction of what it would cost retail. The trick to getting the best deal is to know a few simple tricks. Once you understand what to look for, you can rest assured that you're buying the best gun for your needs and budget.

Instructions

1. Buy from someone you know and trust. If you don't know anyone personally, the next best thing is to go to a reputable gun shop in your area. You can look at the different guns they have for sale and inspect them for damage and wear and tear. Buying online or through an ad in the paper isn't advisable.

2. Ask about a warranty. Checking a gun out in the store and field testing it are two very different things, so ask about a warranty. Many gun shops let you take the gun home and try it for a few days and then bring it back if it isn't what you were expecting. So ask before buying.

3. Inspect the gun thoroughly. Go over the gun looking for rust and other problems. All screws should be tight and the barrel should be straight and free of bulges or blemishes. Hold the gun in your hand and make sure that the grip fits your hand well and feels right. Make sure the inside looks clean and well cared-for. If it's dirty, ask the owner to clean it before you take it.

4. Test it out. Ask the gun shop owner if you can dry fire a gun before you buy it. This will help you get a feel for the gun's functionality.

Tags: about warranty, your hand

Join A Paintball Team

Join a team and play paintball.

Paintball is a sport that uses air-powered guns with small balls of colored paint. The object of paintball is to work in teams of three to four people and seek out your opponents and shoot them first. The first person to capture the other team's flag is the winner. There are paintball leagues all over the country and the world that compete each year for a title. Paintball encourages strategy and teamwork and builds self-empowerment.

Instructions

1. Contact your local parks and recreation department. The city often will offer or know of areas that offer paintball leagues. You can also research the phone book under sports activities and see whether a league is in your city. You can also try your local outfitters store (hunting and fishing gear, outdoor sports) because these stores often sell the paintball guns and supplies. Look in the phone book for any specific paintball parks or locations that offer paintball games. There is a good chance you can find a team or people looking for players.

2. Research online for any websites pertaining to paintball. Several websites can be helpful in your search such as paintball.com, paintballforum.com and pbnation.com. Enter your city and state to find a paintball organization near you. You can call any number listed and request to be put on a waiting list for players or to be put in direct contact with a team president or owner. Ask your friends whether they know anyone who plays on a paintball team and or if they can help you find or join a team.

3. Read the newspaper for any ads that may be placed announcing a paintball league or area team. You can also try the local business license bureau to see whether any companies have formed a paintball business. You can also try your local chamber of commerce to see whether a league has joined. Look for websites that offer posting forums allowing you to create a post about your interest in joining a team.

Tags: that offer, your local, also your, also your local, offer paintball, paintball leagues

Make An Airsoft Gun More Powerful

Airsoft guns are remarkably realistic toy guns modeled after popular firearms. They are designed to fire pellets at a low enough velocity they will not hurt a person and certainly won't break skin, but the power can be turned up a bit in most cases. There are three types of airsoft guns: spring, electric and gas. Gas guns are designed for power adjustment already, whereas spring and electric guns will need adjustments to increase the power.

Instructions

1. Carefully examine your gun and its manual to determine if your airsoft gun is of the spring, electric or gas variety. Your manual will say for sure, but you can easily tell an electric gun by its battery compartment hatch. Distinguishing a gas gun usually requires you to remove the clip and look for a small gas valve inside, which is similar to an air valve on a tire.

2. Review the manual if you have a gas-powered airsoft gun. The good news about these guns is that they're designed to have the power adjusted, so there's no need to alter the gun in a way that would void the warranty. However, the specific procedure for adjusting the power varies among all the different gun styles. It's usually a simple matter of turning a hidden dial or screw, but to locate this adjustable component and find out exactly manipulate it, obtain instructions from the manufacturer specific to your gun model.

3. Examine the outside of the gun if you determine you have an electric- or spring-powered model. Look around the outside of the gun for screws. Count them and note their locations; you'll need to remove them all and reinstall them later. You should also take note of the seams in the plastic body of the gun; you'll soon be pulling apart the two molded halves. Since airsoft guns are somewhat complex devices, you should be as prepared before taking one apart.

4. Remove all of the structural Phillips head screws and set them aside. The exact number of screws and their locations vary among gun designs, but all of the screws should be easy enough to spot.

5. Lay the gun on a flat surface on its side. Apply slight downward pressure on the top side of the gun with one hand to steady it and hold the two molded halves of the gun together. With your other hand, get a firm grip on the bright orange tip on the barrel of the gun and pull it off. This is the most difficult part. Removing the tip may require lots of pressure and twisting, but too much force can break the gun. If you aren't getting anywhere with your bare hand, try prying at the gun with a flat head screwdriver. Keep in mind the tip is all that is holding the gun together at this point. It is important to support and hold together the gun when the tip comes off.

6. Steady the gun on the flat surface after the tip has been removed and pull off the top half, slowly and carefully. Take your time here because there are springs on the inside that may pop out if you handle the gun too roughly.

7. Locate the plunger and firing spring. These will be toward the back of the gun and directly behind the end of the barrel. When you cock the gun, the plunger moves toward the back of the gun, compressing the spring. This creates the energy needed to fire the pellet. Grab the plunger with your fingertips and manually pull it to the back of the gun as far as it will go. You'll notice it doesn't go back far enough to fully compress the firing spring. If you set up the gun so this spring will fully compress, you'll get more power.

8. Allow the plunger to return back to its normal resting position. Stack the metal washers together. Use your fingers to partially compress the firing spring without touching the plunger. This will create space between the back of the plunger and the front of the firing spring. Slip the stack of washers into this space.

9. Pull the plunger all the way back again to see how much more the firing spring compresses. If there is still room for it to compress more, and you want to maximize the power, estimate how many more washers it will take to compress it all the way. Repeat the previous step to add the additional washers.

10. Place the top half of the gun body back on the gun and press it into place. Make sure the seams line up perfectly all the way around. Stick the orange tip back on the barrel. Push it on hard.

11. Replace all of the screws you removed earlier. Your airsoft gun is now powered up.

Tags: firing spring, spring electric, compress firing, compress firing spring, compress more

Co2 Cartridge Uses

CO2 has a number of common uses, including its use as a residue-free fire extinguisher.

Carbon dioxide, or CO2, is used in a wide spectrum of modern technologies because of its physical properties. CO2 can be purchased in compressed form in CO2 tanks, for larger applications, and in smaller compressed CO2 cartridge form. There are a number of commercially available CO2 cartridges on the market. These cartridges come in a wide selection of sizes, shapes, nozzle sizes and qualities, and they can be used for a number of applications.

Airsoft/Paintball

One of the most common uses for commercially available CO2 cartridges is in projectile weapons. A number of paintball guns utilize CO2 cartridges for propulsion, as do most Airsoft guns and a number of air rifles. Paintball guns and larger air rifles/Airsoft guns with automatic fire capability typically use larger gas cartridges, or even small compression tanks, to store the CO2. Smaller CO2-powered Airsoft weapons often use smaller cartridges. CO2 powered guns typically contain an internal gas tank, which is used to store the compressed CO2 from the cartridge that has been used to "charge" the weapon. The internal tank then releases short but powerful bursts of CO2, which are used to propel small metal or plastic pellets (or paintballs) through the barrel of the gun.

Bicycle Inner Tubes

CO2 cartridges can also be used to temporarily inflate bicycle tires. This is useful for emergency applications, such as a popped tire, and takes a fraction of the time required to re-inflate an inner tube with a hand pump. To use cartridges in this manner, you need a specialized inflation tool. These tools come with optional flow control for ease of use, and can fit a number of different sized CO2 cartridges, both threaded and unthreaded. Using the inflator, a cyclist can easily pop in a cartridge, attach the inflator to the tire's inner tube, and have the tube inflated in just seconds. However, CO2 is not useful for long-term inflation, as the gas can dissipate through the rubber, leaving a flat inner tube after a few days. This limits the use of CO2 cartridges for cyclists to temporary or emergency applications.

CO2 Dragsters

CO2 cartridges can be used to propel homemade miniature cars along a straight track. This activity is sometimes organized in racing competitions, and is often used by teachers to demonstrate the laws of aerodynamics and momentum. Typically, the participants each design a car within a set of limitations, and each car includes a rear compartment or space to hold the CO2 cartridge. The cars are then placed on a straight track with some form of guide rail, and the CO2 cartridges are simultaneously released, propelling the cars forward at the same time.

Carbonating Drinks

One famous application of carbon dioxide is in the creation of carbonated drinks. This can be done at home with CO2 cartridges in a number of ways. Beer brewing enthusiasts often carbonate their homebrews by using a CO2 cartridge to keep the keg under pressure. After a sufficient amount of time has passed, the beer will be thoroughly carbonated. There are also a number of ways in which CO2 cartridges can be used in conjunction with a soda fountain to instantly carbonate beverages while serving them. For example, an improvised fountain could carbonate water or juices while serving them. Yet another way of carbonating beverages is by using a specialized bottle designed to fit the smaller food-grade CO2 cartridges, sometimes called "seltzer chargers." These are a simple and easy way of carbonating drinks using CO2 cartridges.

Tags: inner tube, Airsoft guns, available cartridges, cartridges used, commercially available, commercially available cartridges

Youth Paintball Sets & Equipment

Paintballer in action

Paintball has been steadily growing in popularity over the past few years. This fast-paced sport has a huge variety of equipment and supplies, which makes choosing an appropriate set for a youth very difficult. To compound matters further, paintball equipment is also available in a large range of prices.

Choosing the Proper Paintball Gun

The first step in choosing a set for a youth paintballer is purchasing the right paintball gun. There are many low-priced guns on the market that are durable and reliable. There is no need to purchase expensive full auto paintball guns for a youth set. A good youth paintball marker will be simple to use, clean and maintain.

Choosing Proper Clothing

Proper clothing is a must when playing paintball. Thick baggy clothing such as sweatpants and sweatshirts help to ease the sting of being hit with a paintball. Camouflaged uniforms are extremely useful when playing in a wooded area. Also, choose clothing that has many pockets. It is important to carry around many accessories when playing paintball.

Paintball Gun Accessories

As can be expected, there are many options when choosing accessories for your paintball gun. For a beginner set, a plain low-priced hopper is appropriate. Since most entry-level paintball guns are semi-automatic, there is no need for expensive electric hoppers. Using Co2 is another good choice for a youth set. Nitrogen and compressed air tanks are extremely expensive and not all stores and fields fill them.

Paintball Gun Safety

Since the sport of paintball involves shooting others, proper safety is paramount. Purchase a barrel plug for the end of the paintball gun. This prevents any paintballs from accidentally being shot. Also, purchase a quality mask that fully covers your face. Good masks will not fog and will prevent paintballs from hitting sensitive areas of your face.

The Proper Paintball

Paintballs, the ammunition for paintball guns, is sold in a wide variety of types and prices. Don't feel that you need to spend hundreds of dollars for a case of paintballs. Most paintballs, aside from the extremely cheap varieties, are good to use in a beginner's gun. Make sure the paintballs are smooth with no dimples, and don't purchase old paintballs.

Tags: paintball guns, when playing, Choosing Proper, paintballs from, playing paintball, Proper Paintball, when playing paintball

Repair A Spyder Paint Ball Gun

A paint ball gun is also called a marker.

Paint ball is a popular recreational sport in which small pellets of paint are fired from guns, known as markers, at opposing players in an attempt to eliminate them from the game by marking them with paint. Spyder is a leading marker manufacturer and a popular choice for beginning players. Failing to properly maintain your marker can lead to the need for repairs, which can be completed with the use of an Allen key and replacement parts.

Instructions

1. Remove the pins that hold the bolt assembly of the gun in place. You must first remove the small disconnect pin on the side of the marker, over the trigger, which will enable you to pull the large pin above the trigger out.

2. Remove the bolt from the gun. With the pins removed, the spring inside the gun will force the bolt assembly out of the gun.

3. Inspect the bolt for signs of damage and replace if needed. Minor cosmetic damage does not warrant replacement, however a bolt with significant dings or dents may cause your gun to not function properly.

4. Adjust the regulator on the gun, located on the plastic attachment which your CO2 canister attaches to, using an Allen key, until it is reading at 800 psi. You must fire the gun for the gauge to give a new reading, so fire once after each adjustment. Turn the screw in to lower pressure, or turn the screw so that it comes out slightly to increase pressure.

5. Unscrew the metal hose running from the plastic CO2 attachment to the body of the gun at the end at which it attaches to the plastic. The hose is held on by a female end which screws over the male end of the plastic attachment, similar to how the male end of a coaxial cable attaches to the female port on a television.

6. Remove the O-ring inside the female end of the hose, and replace it with a new O-ring. A leaky O-ring reduces the flow of CO2 to your gun, preventing it from firing properly.

7. Screw the female end back onto the male end.

Tags: plastic attachment, bolt assembly

Airsoft Arenas In Illinois

Indoor airsoft arenas are usually the size of standard rollerskating rinks.

Airsoft is a sport/game that developed directly from the paintball format. Opponents use high-powered weaponry to fire soft plastic pellets at high speed at each other. It is a military, tactical game which is played for the most part on existing paintball fields. Illinois has a few indoor airsoft facilities which share with paintball locations.

Chicagoland Paintball

As of 2010, this is the only indoor airsoft facility in the Chicago area. Maybe that's why it calls itself the Midwest's largest arena. While paintball is still the specialty here airsoft is also played. Mondays,Tuesdays and Wednesdays are reserved for private play. The hours for Thursday and Friday are 5 to 10 p.m. Saturday hours are 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday hours are noon to 7 p.m.

Chicagoland Paintball

537 West 195th Street

Glenwood, Illinois 60425

708-756-1166

chicagoland-paintball.com

Xtreme Plex/Crossfire

This indoor arena is the typical ice skating rink size and is geared for numerous activities, including paintball, reball and airsoft. This location and website is also known as Crossfire. The hours are: Wednesday, Thursday and Friday 4 p.m. to 10 p.m., Saturday 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Sunday 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Private team practices are available weekends before 11 a.m. As always, call ahead. There are many services at this novice-friendly location, including experts to assist with any gun problems.

Xtreme Plex/Crossfire

6360 W. Emerald Parkway

Monee, Illinois 60449

708-534-7005

xtremeplex.com or

crossfirereball.netfirms.com

Fly N' Colors

This is another expansive indoor facility of 14,000 feet that is equipped for airsoft events. It includes an on-site store where weaponry can be rented. Hours are a little restricted. Reservations are required Monday through Friday. Open play is on Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The operators of the facility strongly suggest you call before making plans for a visit.

Fly N' Colors

12284 Old State Road

Charleston, Illinois 61920

217-246-1241

flyncolorspaintball.com

Tags: Chicagoland Paintball, Friday Saturday, indoor airsoft, Plex Crossfire, Saturday Sunday

Stun Gun Laws In Virginia

Stun guns--weapons that can incapacitate a person with an electric charge--are legal in Virginia. This includes both Taser-style stun guns, which fire projectiles attached to electric wires, and stun guns that are held directly against the body. State law sets no minimum age for carrying them and includes only a couple of restrictions on who can possess a stun gun and where such devices can be carried.

School Property

Stun guns cannot be carried on school property in Virginia. The law defines "school property" as the buildings and grounds of any elementary, middle or high school, be it public, private or religious. The restriction is extended to any other place that is normally open to the public when it is being used exclusively for a school-sponsored function or extracurricular activity. Examples could include a nightclub that has been rented for a school dance, or an auditorium that is hosting a high school basketball game. "School property" also includes any bus owned or operated by a school.

The law makes exceptions for law enforcement officers and people carrying stun guns as part of school-authorized activities, such as someone coming to the school to present a demonstration of a stun gun.

Violation of the school-property restriction is a Class 1 misdemeanor, punishable by up to a year in jail and a $2,500 fine.

Possession by Felons

Any person who has been convicted of a felony is barred by state law from carrying a stun gun in Virginia. The restriction also applies to anyone under age 30 who was convicted of a felony-level crime as a juvenile and to anyone, regardless of age, who was convicted as a juvenile of murder, robbery, rape or kidnapping. However, all of these people are allowed to keep a stun gun in their home for defense. Felons can petition a court for the right to carry a stun gun--or another weapon--if their civil rights have been restored by order of the governor.

Violation of the felon-in-possession restriction is considered a Class 6 felony, punishable by up to five years in prison and a $2,500 fine.

Concealed Carry

Stun guns can be carried concealed. State law requires a permit to carry certain concealed weapons, including firearms, switchblade knives and throwing stars, but not stun guns.

Tags: stun guns, carrying stun, high school, school property, Stun guns

Build Your Own Virtual M4 Brownells

Gun enthusiasts are familiar with the name Brownells; in addition to selling a wide variety of guns and accessories, the company stocks a large assortment of reference material, including books and videos. As a companion site to their online stores, Brownells has developed a website that allows customers to virtually create and customize five different types of guns, including an Agency Style M4 Carbine. Once the M4 is selected, you can customize it with over 100 different pieces, such as stocks and sights. The AR-15 Builder website is free to use and anyone can access it.

Instructions

1. Navigate to the Brownell's AR-15 Builder website in your Web browser.

2. Click the drop-down menu next to "Start Here" at the top of the page.

3. Select "Agency Style M4 Carbine" from the list provided. A virtual representation of the M4 appears on the screen.

4. Click any of the four menus at the top of the screen to customize your gun: "Lower Receiver," "Upper Receiver," "Sights & Optics" or "Accessories."

5. Click any product in these four categories to add it to your gun.

6. Click "Save Build" at the bottom of the screen to save your M4 to edit it later. Click "Print Gun" to print out a physical copy, or click "Send to Cart" to purchase the M4 you built.

Tags: Agency Style, Agency Style Carbine, AR-15 Builder, AR-15 Builder website, Builder website, Style Carbine

Fire Dueling Pistols

Dueling is as old as the invention of the pistol.

Dueling with pistols was a method of settling differences that began just after the invention of the pistol. There have been many well-known people throughout history who have died in duels. Unfortunately, some "won" their duel yet still received a fatal wound themselves. Today historical re-creationists duel with modified pistols that do not fire a lethal projectile. Whether using antique single-shot pistols, modern repeater pistols, or paintball guns; the method for shooting your dueling pistol remains the same.

Instructions

1. Prepare your weapons. Engage the safety mechanisms. Open the handle of each paintball gun and install a CO2 cartridge into both. Pull the loading mechanism and load a paintball into the chamber. Remove the magazine from both guns so they become single-shot weapons.

2. Allow your opponent to choose the weapon she want to use for the duel. Pick up the remaining pistol and proceed to the dueling field with your opponent. Position the secondary shooters and judge on the side of the dueling field while you and your opponent meet at the center and stand back to back.

3. Hold your weapon up with one hand at a 90 degree angle to the ground directly in front of your face and disengage the safety mechanism when the judge declares, "Shooters, take your marks."

4. Walk forward, away from one another, one step each time the judge counts as he counts from one to nine. When the judge says, "Ten," take a final step, turn, extend your arm, aim the gun, and fire the weapon at your adversary.

Tags: your opponent, dueling field, invention pistol

Convert Paintball Gun To Full Auto

Paintball gun.

Converting your paintball gun to fully automatic can greatly increase the performance of your gun. This upgrade, while slightly expensive, is very popular. A fully automatic paintball gun can have rates of fire that reach 20 balls per second, depending on the model of gun. This high rate of fire gives you a significant strategic advantage against your competition. Although this upgrade can be quite fun, it can also become quite expensive since you will be shooting many more paintballs.

Instructions

1. Unscrew the stock trigger frame from your paintball gun. Depending on the model of gun, this is typically done by unscrewing the two screws that connect the trigger frame to the body of the gun. These are located on the bottom of the body.

2. Remove the stock trigger frame by pulling it away from the paintball gun. Be careful to not damage any of the parts in the body of the paintball gun, these can be delicate.

3. Replace the stock trigger frame with an electric trigger frame. Move this into place and line up the exposed parts of the body with the parts of the trigger frame.

4. Screw the electric trigger frame into the paintball gun using the screws you removed. Do not over tighten the screws, this can cause damage to the internal parts of the trigger frame.

5. Attach an electric hopper to the feed neck on the top of the paintball gun. An electric hopper agitates the paintballs, preventing clogs. These are necessary to sustain a high rate of automatic fire.

Tags: trigger frame, stock trigger, stock trigger frame, electric hopper, electric trigger, electric trigger frame, fully automatic

Military Gun Training

Weapons training involves handling different types of firearms.

Firearms are the military's basic weapon for combat. Every military personnel must undergo training to master the concepts and skills needed to use firearms effectively in the field of battle. This training involves handling different types of firearms depending if the training level is basic or advanced.

Background

For basic military firearms training, the trainees usually learn handle a handgun or pistol and a rifle. The most common type of rifle used for basic combat training in 2010 are M-16 rifles. The basic gun training term in the military is referred to as marksmanship training. According to an article on the website Global Security, marksmanship training can be basic and advanced. It can also be divided into sections depending on the topics covered and the skills learned by the military trainees. The sections of training are mechanical, preparatory marksmanship and firing range. Aside from actual firearms, trainees usually use armor, helmets, knee pads, eye protection, notebooks and pens during training.

Preparation

Mechanical training involves learning the parts and functions of the gun. You will learn disassemble and assemble the weapon and how load and unload the ammunition. You will also learn safety precautions and fixing basic gun malfunctions. You will also learn properly maintain the weapon. In preparatory marksmanship, you will acquire strategies for aiming and firing the weapon, the techniques of squeezing the trigger and target engagement. You will be familiar with the different positions to take when firing guns.

Firing Range

Live fire range exercises follow the preparatory course. This is when concepts and safety precautions learned in previous training must be applied. The instructor and safety personnel check and record the exercises. Trainees are expected to follow shooting instructions and report malfunctions and problems encountered. The exercises are conducted in a controlled environment. Trainees are evaluated for their shooting accuracy and quantity, appropriate positions, reflexes, and reloading tactics, weapon retention and firing techniques.

Method

The teaching methods applied in marksmanship training usually consist of instructor coaching and peer coaching. For mechanical and preliminary marksmanship, a qualified instructor conducts a combination of lecture and demonstration. The instructor may make use of chalkboards, projector and screen and a working model. The trainees will also have a number of hands-on exercises in the classroom and on the field.

For firing exercises, peer coaching can also take place. Peer coaching involves having two trainees assisting and coaching each other. Both soldiers must be at the same proficiency level and experience. The peer coaching aims to enhance learning as the coaches become more aware of what to teach and look for to properly guide their partners.

Advanced

Advanced weapons training is designed for special forces and troops. One example of specialized troops is the special weapons team of the Navy SEALS. Advanced training covers the handling of high-powered guns. Examples of special guns are the M249 SAW (Squad Automatic Weapon) and the M4 Carbine, which is a converted M-16 semi-automatic rifle. The firing exercises are expected to be more intense and realistic. In an 2010 interview by CNN news with Will McLain, he revealed that shooting exercises may take place in the mornings or evenings in a mock Iraqi village.

Tags: marksmanship training, peer coaching, training involves, will also, also learn, basic advanced

Get A Good Trigger Finger In "Mw2"

"Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2" puts you in the role of gun-toting soldier. To survive, you'll not only need to master effective tactics, but you'll also need a fast trigger finger. As with a sport or martial art, the only way to get your trigger finger up to professional levels is through rigorous practice. You need to commit a considerable amount of time to developing your skill, and all the while your multiplayer competition will be doing the same thing. Approaching your practice intelligently will help you get the most out of your time.

Instructions

1. Practice with only a single platform, such as your computer, Xbox or PlayStation. Each platform has a different feel to its controls, and by switching between them, you'll disrupt the development of your reflexes. For instance, aiming and firing with a mouse uses completely different movements than doing so with an Xbox controller. Although developing your reflexes with one will help the others, you'll get the fastest results by concentrating your efforts with a single control type.

2. Play through the solo game until your feel comfortable with the controls. There's a lot to manage in "Modern Warfare 2," including weapon selection, movement type, movement direction and aim. Expect to spend several hours just getting acclimated to the controls. Don't worry about refining your reflexes yet. At the same time, don't linger in solo mode for too long. After a while, you'll become familiar with the placement and behavioral patterns of the artificial intelligence (AI), and you won't complete the missions with your reflexes so much as by memory. At this point, you're not developing your trigger finger, you're simply memorizing the game.

3. Engage in multiplayer combat. If you have friends who play as well, play against them. Just as with the AI, though, you'll eventually become familiar with your friends' habits and behaviors, reducing the challenge. At this point, start playing against strangers as well. You can find other players by joining one of the many "Modern Warfare 2" forums.

4. Sign up for practice. There are a number of different weapon types in "Modern Warfare 2," and over time, you'll likely gain proficiency with some faster than others. If you want to practice the use of a particular weapon, post a topic on one of the forums with your interest, such as "Quick-Scope Practice." When other players express interest, join them for several practice battles. In this style, all players will be relying upon quick-scope strategies, giving you a chance to hone this skill yourself as well as to see how others are doing so.

Tags: Modern Warfare, your reflexes, developing your, trigger finger, with your, become familiar

Types Of Laser Tag Games

Points are scored by hitting your opponent's targets on their vest.

Laser tag, like paintball, includes many variations on the basic game. Some laser-tag facilities give players the option of playing in many different format games. Variations involve rule changes and physical differences to the game. For most games, enough people must agree to play in the same format for the facility to host a particular variation.

Team Games

Many laser-tag games involve teams of participants competing against each other. In one common variation, each team has a base. Competitors get points for tagging the base of the opposition or for scoring shots on their opponents. Other team games include capture the flag. In this game, players try to carry the opponent's flag back to their own base without getting tagged by an opponent along the way.

Solo Games

Many laser tag games are solo games. Solo games are easier to organize because people don't need to be placed on teams. They may also be better for beginners as there is none of the strategy associated with team games. Instead, players simply mill about and get points for scoring on other players. Other games have players face elimination after being tagged a certain number of times. In some one-on-one group games, you might be paired with another player and only get points for tagging your opposite player.

Bonus Games

A number of different laser-tag games grant bonuses to players upon tagging certain targets or reaching certain goals. These might include only one type of bonus or might incorporate several different bonuses to be earned, for example, after tagging three opponents in a row. Examples of bonuses include invulnerability, rapid fire, extra shots or bonus points where you receive more points for attaining your goals in the game.

Prop Games

Some games of laser tag incorporate additional props or tools to add something to the game. In one example, the game incorporates "mines" that go off at random intervals and score hits on anyone who gets caught in the crossfire. In another, fog is added to the field to make it harder to spot opponents that are in the game.

Tags: Games Many, laser-tag games, points tagging

Buy Grenade Gloves

Grenade gloves can protect your hands for most activities and they display a degree of character. There are several things to consider before buying grenade gloves, including their function and your own personal style.

Instructions

1. Buy the "Doobie Brothers" grenade gloves for skate boarding. They feature a no-slip grip for grabbing rails and a neoprene top to protect your knuckles in the case of falls.

2. Purchase the "Battle Beast" grenade gloves to protect your hands in the coldest elements. They're made of fur and have leather palms for easier handling.

3. Buy the "Reign in Flood" model of grenade gloves for activities in the snow and ice. These gloves are made of a leather hybrid and are very tough for abrasive activities. This model also features a zippered compartment for storing your goggle cloth.

4. Check out the "Screaming Hand" model of grenade gloves if you want gloves with personality. These gloves feature an eccentric graphic and are available in black or blue. They are made of suede and nylon and feature a leather closure on the wrist.

5. Consider "Silly Pink Bunnies" if you want grenade gloves with a touch of femininity. These gloves have the no-slip fish grip and a suede palm.

6. Get a pair if "Bum" grenade gloves if you're looking for gloves that provide all around warmth for every day activities. These gloves have removable finger tips that are convenient when handling small objects.

Tags: grenade gloves, These gloves, protect your, gloves have, gloves protect, gloves protect your, gloves with

Get A Class Ii Federal Firearms License

A handgun with a silencer: an example of a Class III firearm needing a Class II license to make.

The National Firearms Act of 1934 allowed the federal government to put a special purchase tax on certain types of firearms. These were short-barreled shotguns, fully-automatic firearms, and what was known as "any other weapon" which became a catch-all for unusual and strange guns. In 1968, the government refined this further by creating classes of federal firearm licenses which gave permission to buy, sell, and manufacture firearms. The weapons covered under the act of 1934 were now called Class III weapons.

The Class II license is used to manufacture Class III weapons.

Instructions

1. Download the NFA Handbook from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives website.

2. Complete the ATF Form 7 (5310.12) license application in Appendix C. Required information includes whether the applicant is an individual or company; the company name; contact information and the type of weapons manufactured. The application has questions concerning any previous criminal history and mental problems.

3. Complete the ATF Form 5630.7, Special Tax Registration and Return in Appendix C. Required information includes the formal name and address of the business, the number of locations, and the anticipated gross revenues.

4. Mail the forms and the $1,000 fee to the Bureau of ATF, Attention NFA, P.O. Box 403269, Atlanta, Ga. 30384-3269.

5. Wait 90 to 120 days for the stamp and license to arrive. The license is good for three years.

Tags: Appendix Required, Appendix Required information, Class license, Class weapons, Complete Form, information includes

Get Hunting Sponsors

Whether for food or for trophy, hunters all over take to the land and hunt for many different animals. The sport carries many costs involved, which can be prohibitive. An option for some sportsmen, much like in pro fishing, is to get hunting sponsors, companies who will foot some of the bills and supply some of the equipment.

Instructions

1. Begin with finding a niche. If it is big game, use a specific firearm, game call, bullet or piece of equipment. The larger the manufacturer, the more sponsorship monies they have. If you use a certain gun, make sure to mention it any chance you get if you're mentioned in a publication. These articles will need to be saved. The more exposure that you have and the more mentions of that potential sponsor, the better your chance is.

2. Go to all hunting shows. Discuss with your favorite companies what their criteria is for sponsorship. Know their product lists and what they have available. Be able to talk shop with these people and show them that you are intimate with their inventory. Many want to see some local cable TV program with a strong viewership. As your local popularity grows, a stronger case can be made to have a sponsor give you equipment to field test and promote on a show or in a column on a local newspaper or a website.

3. Maintain contact with the people you talked to at the hunting shows. These contacts will allow you access to your targeted companies and give you an edge on people who cold call them looking for freebies. Continue to use their products. This kind of continuity will ensure them that you are really are a fan of their products and will continue to introduce them to your future readers and viewers.

4. Continue to get as much press as possible. Anything that gets you exposure is a selling point for these sponsors. Volunteer to guide local reporters, give opinions to local papers and get your name out as much as possible.

Tags: hunting shows, their products, them that, they have

Bass Pro Shop Games

Whether you prefer casting your line or shooting your rifle, several games themed around hunting and fishing are available for play bearing the moniker of outdoor store Bass Pro Shops. The titles represent more than a decade of gaming and were released for a variety of home video gaming consoles.

Bass Pro Shops: The Hunt

Explore some of the best hunting spots in the North American wilderness in "Bass Pro Shops: The Hunt" for the Microsoft Xbox 360, Nintendo Wii and PC. Choose from a wide variety of weapons, including rifles, pistols, shotguns, knives and bows. The game includes Bass Pro Shops themed gear, such as global positioning systems, scents and wildlife calls. Play the "Quick Hunt" mode to get right into action or plan your long-term strategy in "Career Mode." See how you fare against other hunters by competing in the Bass Pro Shops Continental Classic Hunting Championship. This 2010 title also offers some mini-games such as ATV races and target range shooting.

Bass Pro Shops: The Strike

Take your boat to some of the best fishing spots in North America in "Bass Pro Shops: The Strike" for PC, Xbox 360 and Wii. Use a standard controller or buy the package that comes with a fishing rod peripheral to cast your line and try to find hot spots for fish in several North American lakes. The 2009 title lets you choose from a variety of rods and reels and use different types of bait to catch dozens of species of fish.

Bass Pro Shops: Trophy Bass 2007

"Bass Pro Shops: Trophy Bass 2007" offers nine different competitions, including tournament fishing. Show your skills at casting and boat racing, in addition to your prowess at landing the big one in this 2006 game for the original Xbox and PC. You can fish in 13 different lakes and use more than 100 lures. This title features a progression system, so you can unlock better boats and gear by finishing well in tournaments. Earn money in events by catching the biggest bass, as well.

Bass Pro Shops: Trophy Hunter 2007

Stalk prey in 10 North American hunting locations in "Bass Pro Shops: Trophy Hunter 2007" for the PC and Xbox. This 2006 title lets you choose from rifles, shotguns and bows to hunt a variety of prey that includes grizzlies and polar bears. Choose from "Quick Hunt" and "Career Hunt" depending on the amount of time you wish to dedicate to the effort. Bullets are affected by wind and foliage, so plan your shots carefully.

Tags: Bass Shops, Bass Shops Trophy, Shops Trophy, North American, Bass 2007

Alabama Whitetail Hunting Strategies

A whitetail deer makes its way through a field.

With over 1.7 million whitetail deer in Alabama, it's no wonder the state is considered one of the top deer-hunting areas in the South. Alabama hunters don't have the luxury of the North's inclement weather to push deer to bait, so knowing the strategies behind getting a trophy deer is a must.

Look Before You Hunt

Scouting is an important part of any hunter's annual practice, but in Alabama it is a key component to knowing where the deer are. Take time to look for deer signs, especially bedding and feeding areas and deer droppings.

The Alabama Game and Fish Department suggests also looking for shed antlers in the spring months. This, according to the website, is a great way to find trophy bucks' territories and will prepare you for the fall hunts. The department also suggests training your dog to help you find those antlers; it's much more effective than just happening across one.

Know the Seasons

While Alabama may not have the snow that will drive a deer to a bait source, it still has the luxury of premating and mating seasons for whitetail deer.

In the premating season, which runs in the early weeks of fall, the bucks are often out marking their territories and bulking up their food supply to prepare for the rut. This is a good time to lure deer in with food sources and by hunting their feeding grounds.

The mating season, or rut, is a bit more challenging if you're trying to hunt food sources. Instead, try using scents and calls to bring a buck into shooting range. Rattling antlers emulate the sound of two bucks fighting over territory, which is sure to pique the interest of a dominant buck. The same goes for buck grunt calls. Doe bleats, on the other hand, mixed with doe estrus scents, encourage a buck by tempting his mating instincts.

Keep on Practicing

If there's one thing that is certain when hunting in Alabama, it's that you never know what type of shot you're going to have to take. From large open areas, from thicket to swamp to forest, Alabama has a plethora of hunting grounds that you may find yourself traversing. Practice shooting in several stances, from standing to kneeling to prone positions and from elevated and declined positions.

Tags: whitetail deer, deer bait, food sources

Troubleshoot A Tippmann A5

Paintball is played in numerous clubs and organizations all over the U.S.

Paintball is a rigorous pastime that might also teach combat skills. Tippmann produces a variety of paintball guns, including the A5. Troubleshooting is a skill that must be learned in order to correct problems during a game. Common issues include jamming, trigger malfunctions, battery connection problems and CO2 connection problems.

Instructions

1. Check the battery power-level if the weapon is operating slowly. The battery may need replacement.

2. Inspect the battery connection. The gun will not respond when pulling the trigger if the connection is poor.

3. Check to ensure that your air supply is hooked up correctly at the marker. Turn the gun off. Disconnect and reconnect the air supply.

4. Check the firing mode. The mode may be set to "No operation." Turn the mode adjustment screw to "Position 1."

5. Inspect the gun to ensure that the internal wires are connected. Unscrew the air supply. Remove the lower receiver and the left grip portion. Inspect and reconnect any disconnected wires. Ensure that no wires are compressed or crimped.

6. Clear the hopper and look for any jams in the intake hole. Clear the jams and try the weapon again.

Tags: battery connection, connection problems

Paintball Eye Injuries

The popularity of paintball continues to increase, despite its potential to cause serious eye injuries. It is important to always wear eye protection when on or near where paintball is being played.

Blindness

Short of death, blindness is clearly the worst injury paintball can cause. Although in most cases the eye might be able to be operated on, some injuries are so severe that surgery is not possible.

Lens Subluxation

When a paintball shot comes into direct contact with a person's eye, the damage can fall into a range of severity. A lens subluxation, which occurs when a paintball strikes a closed eyed, is a partial dislocation of the lens directly behind the pupil of the eye. This eye injury can be operated on by way of a cataract extraction, in which the natural lens is removed and replaced with a synthetic lens to restore the transparency.

Angle Recession

When a paintball strikes the eye, it has the potential to damage different fluid sacks, such as the tear ducts. An angle recession is when the eye experiences trauma resulting in an abnormal elevation of pressure inside of the eye because of the leakage of fluid. This eye injury can severely damage optic nerves and affect the ability to produce a proper amount of eye fluid. It can be operated on through either laser surgery or incisional surgery.

Ruptures

Eye ruptures can occur if a paintball grazes the eye or even if a piece of a paintball comes into contact with the surface of the eye. An eye rupture is when a blood vessel becomes damaged from a clot, which causes added pressure on the affected vessel, resulting in the break. Eye ruptures tend not to be as serious as other eye injuries. This eye injury can either be surgically repaired or naturally repaired, which takes about two to three weeks to fully heal.

Detached Retinas

Detached retinas are caused when a paintball strikes the eye, whether opened or closed, and forces the eye to be pushed out of place due to the sudden blunt force trauma. A detached retina is when the retina in the back of the eye becomes separated from the optic nerve, causing severe blurriness. If this eye injury is not treated, it will usually lead to blindness. A detached retina can be treated by either laser surgery or cryotherapy, which is when the retina is frozen back into place to the eye wall.

Tags: paintball strikes, comes into, contact with, detached retina, either laser, either laser surgery, laser surgery

Make An Air Compressor For Diving

Diving compressors are safest if bolted to a dive boat's deck.

Air compressors are used in scuba diving to allow for an open system of breathing for a diver at certain depths. The advantage to this type of system is that it offers the ability to dive for as long as necessary without coming back to the surface for more air. These systems are easy to construct from materials found at any home improvement or dive store. The use of a compressor for diving requires a dedicated individual to keep their eyes on the system to watch for operating issues. The system should be tested on the boat or dry land prior to ever attempting an actual dive.

Instructions

1. Acquire an appropriate air compressor for the project. The tank must have an automatic pressure switch, at least a 1-horsepower engine and a medium-sized air tank. Since most of the air will be pushed directly down to the diver, the tank doesn't need to be overly large. It simply needs some form of storage in case of a sudden loss of pressure from the engine.

2. Establish a reliable quality power supply. This is the tricky part, as small boats don't always have the power output necessary for running a compressor. Make sure that there is either a dedicated generator for use on the boat to run the pump, or a power inverter to draw power from the boat's engines without causing a burnout.

3. Connect an air filter and water separator to the compressor. This will help keep the air quality good coming through the compressor while ensuring that no water backs up into the system and causes damage to the system. Some compressors come with built-in air filters, and semirigid flexible plastic tubing works well for water drainage. Use a socket set or adjustable wrench to make the connections.

4. Use brass, quick-connect couplings for the air tubing. Brass tubing is an easy-to-connect choice in couplings, and it holds up better in a marine environment than galvanized or aluminum fittings. Be sure to occasionally disassemble, rinse with water, and apply a lubricating spray to all couplings to protect corrosion damage.

5. Bolt the compressor to the boat deck to avoid any movement of the mechanism during operation. This makes the unit less of a danger for other activities on the boat deck, and it also makes it easier to service and clean. Use sturdy, 3-inch steel bolts and a socket set to connect the compressor.

6. Purchase a diving set that will have a tether line for a compressed air system of at least 40 feet. Most large dive shops or diving supply stores will either have this or be able to special order it. Also purchase any valves and connectors necessary for use with the equipment and compressor. Connect the tether line to the compressor and tighten it completely with a wrench.

Tags: boat deck, tether line

Starting A Sports Memorabilia Business

Finding Suppliers

When starting a sports memorabilia business, one of the biggest obstacles is obtaining a substantial inventory of memorabilia. There are sources of inventory you can use. The first is any personal items that you own. These items can be added to your own inventory for your business. Another option is eBay and other online retailers. Find a few reputable sellers and arrange to purchase large amounts of inventory from them. Inquire from the seller if he will offer a discount if you agree to make purchases on a regular basis. Obtain a list of sports autographing and memorabilia shows where athletes will be signing autographs throughout the country. This list can be found in the Beckett Magazine. Plan on attending these events, as it will be cheaper to get items signed in person than buying them from third-party sources who will include a mark-up percentage in their prices.

Online Store or Traditional Brick and Mortar Store

Decide how you will make your sales in the sports memorabilia business. Will you do all of your business online? If so, you will want to create an eBay account, a Craigslist account and possibly your own e-commerce website online store. The advantages of being online are that you avoid having to pay rent and your overhead for electricity and water is much lower than it would be with a traditional brick and mortar store.

If you wish to open a traditional brick and mortar store, then you will want to choose a location. A good choice is in a shopping center, such as an indoor shopping mall, or a strip center. The rent for strip centers can be more affordable for first time business owners as by definition strip centers do not have an anchor tenant. Anchor tenants tend to bring in the largest number of customers. A brick and mortar store offers the advantage of the store itself being advertising for your business. You will have a sign, and people will know get in touch with you in person if an issue arises that they must contact you about.

Pricing

Benchmarking is a good way to set your prices. Visit online websites such as eBay, Craigslist, Amazon and sports memorabilia websites to research their pricing of items that are the same or similar to ones that you are selling. This can give you a good baseline for your pricing.

Monitor the demand for certain items from your customers. If you have a brick and mortar store, you might be able to price local team memorabilia slightly higher than online retailers do. This is because you will be dealing with a customer base that has a higher demand level for these items.

When pricing items compared with online retailers, keep in mind if you have a brick and mortar store customers will not need to pay for shipping and handling. This will allow you to price a similar item to one being sold online at a slightly higher price, but still lower than what that item would cost including shipping and handling from the online retailer. As an online retailer, you might want to sell items slightly cheaper than your competition based on the fact that your customer will have to add the shipping and handling cost to his item.

Authenticity

Whenever possible, get a certificate of authenticity for the items you are selling. This verifies that the individual whose signature appears on the item actually signed it. Sometimes along with this, it's helpful to get a photo of the athlete signing the item for you; this will add credibility and allow you to increase your prices.

Tags: brick mortar store, mortar store, brick mortar, online retailers, shipping handling, sports memorabilia