Locate Personal Stolen Guns

Get your stolen gun back.

Because guns have a high value on the street, they are often a prime target for thieves. Although your insurance company may compensate you for the monetary value of your gun, it can do nothing to ease the emotional attachment you may feel to your lost weapon--especially if the gun was customized or a gift from a loved one. There are steps you can take, however, to attempt to locate and recover your stolen gun.

Instructions

1. Write down a description of the gun. Include any custom features or engravings the weapon had along with the type of weapon it is and its serial number.

2. Take the gun's description to the police department and file a police report of the theft. Not only is this a crucial part of locating and recovering your missing firearm, but in some states, such as New York and Ohio, it is illegal not to file a police report when your gun is lost or stolen. Get a copy of the police report for your own records.

3. Ask the police department to submit your gun's serial number to the National Crime Information System (NCIS) database. The NCIS database is referenced by law enforcement officers in every state, thus you have a much higher chance of recovering your gun if it appears in the system (See References).

4. List your gun, its serial number and its basic description on any one of the numerous firearm recovery websites, such as mygunroom.com or stolenweapon.com. If you have a photograph of the missing firearm, you may post that as well to help others identify your gun if they should see it.

5. Visit all the pawn shops in your area. Thieves often pawn the items they steal for quick cash. If you should find your stolen gun in a pawn shop, alert the police immediately. State laws vary, and you may need to go so far as to get a court order to have the firearm returned.

6. Take out an ad in your local newspaper or put up flyers in your neighborhood letting the public know that your gun was stolen. Unfortunately, you cannot always depend on the altruism of the public. Offer a reward for the return of your stolen gun.

Tags: your stolen, police report, serial number, file police, file police report

Anodize At Home

If you are looking for a simple way to make your car or bike parts last longer or look better, or if you are looking for a way to make a little extra money, then you will want to learn anodize metal parts at home. To anodize at home, you will need a few simple pieces of equipment, a few basic supplies and a safe place to anodize. Once the steps are mastered, you will be able to complete anodizing projects in a few hours.

Instructions

1. Set up your anodizing stations. You will need an electrolysis station, a rinsing station and a dying station. You will also need a cleaning station and a setting station. The electrolysis station will consist of a rubber tub that contains sulfuric acid solution and charging rods that are connected to a live 12V charger. The rinsing station will consist of a rubber tub and access to boiling water. The dying station will be a large pot on top of a heat source. In the pot, there will be a highly concentrated fabric dye solution. The cleaning station will be a rubber tub with a solution made from sodium hydroxide. Finally, the setting station will be made up of a vegetable steamer.

2. Start by cleaning your metal at the cleaning station. To do this, simply let the metal sit in the solution for about a half an hour. This process alone will create an interesting texture and finish on your metal parts.

3. Remove the metal from the cleansing bath, and move it to the anodizing electrolysis station. Here, you will heat the solution to about 70 degree F and charge the water by turning on the 12V charger and placing the charging rods into the solution. Submerge the metal in the electrolysis station. Let it stay in her for about two hours.

4. Add color to your anodized metal by placing the metal into the dye solution. Heat to boiling and allow the metal to boil in the solution for about 30 minutes. Remove from the dye solution and rinse with boiling water, then set the dye by placing the metal into the vegetable steamer for about a half hour. Use tongs and gloves when moving the metal from station to station to protect your hands from the heat and from the acids you are working with.

Tags: station will, electrolysis station, cleaning station, solution about, about half, about half hour, boiling water

Homemade Water Guns

With the advent of the Super Soaker, retail water gun makers have been in an arms race to see who can build the biggest, wettest water gun possible. This race has not been missed by DIY enthusiasts, who have tackled the problem of creating a water gun capable of leaving the retail versions drenched. Making your own water gun is easy, but making your own water gun that makes the targets run away at the sight of it requires that you know a bit about what makes a water gun work.

Water Gun Basics

Every water gun works on the same basic principle. You generate pressure in the gun and then use that pressure to push the water out. To do this requires that your gun have four primary parts, a reservoir, a pump, a pressure chamber and a trigger valve attached to a nozzle.

The reservoir holds your ammo, the water. It's basically a water tank with an opening that seals anda connecting outlet to run water to the pump area. The only limitation to size is how big a tank you're willing to carry. Your reservoir can be a part of the gun or attached via hose depending on your design.

The pump is responsible for moving the water from the reservoir into the pressure chamber. Most pumps utilize a sliding plunger and rod setup within a tube. The tube connects the reservoir with the pressure chamber and works by creating a vacuum that draws water from the reservoir and then pushes that water into the pressure chamber. To keep the water from flowing in the other direction, your water gun should contain a one-way valve that can seal off water from flowing in any undesired direction. If you're going to be creating very high pressure for your water gun, you may consider adding a pressure-release valve to the system so that the pressure won't cause your pressure chamber to rupture.

Your pressure chamber stores the air pressure that shoots the water. It's important that you make the pressure chamber as strong as possible, using heavy materials, as this will allow you to operate a gun with much higher pressures, shooting larger streams of water farther. It works when the air filled pressure chamber fill with water. As you pump more water into the chamber, the air within compresses. That generates pressure that is released with the press of the trigger.

The trigger valve simply opens the pressure chamber so you can direct the water being propelled by the compressed air. By attaching a nozzle to the trigger valve you can control the direction of the escaping water.

Assembly

Once you know the parts, putting them all together is a simple matter. Connect your reservoir to the pressure chamber with a pump-controlled hose. The pump should be made to slide easily to fill the pressure chamber from the reservoir quickly. Connect the pressure chamber to the trigger valve/nozzle. With a few pumps, you compress the air in the chamber, and then you pull on your trigger valve releasing the water and air in a stream. The more pressure you have the stronger the stream.

The materials you use for your water gun can usually be gathered at most home-improvement stores in the plumbing section.

Tags: pressure chamber, trigger valve, your water, water from, from reservoir, chamber trigger, chamber trigger valve

Adjust The Fps On An Airsoft

Adjust the FPS on an Airsoft

Adjusting an airsoft gun's feet per second (FPS) is the greatest way to hit a far target. The best way to do this is replacing the spring, barrel, gearbox and motor. Upgrading the barrel to a small-diameter one will improve accuracy and FPS. An improved spring will push the piston harder, which also increases FPS. The airsoft gun's motor can be upgraded to handle the newer spring, which ensures maximum spring compression. The gearbox needs to be upgraded when the motor or spring is upgraded to prevent damage to the internal gears.

Instructions

1. Remove the magazine from the gun. Fire the gun in auto mode three times to make certain there are no BBs in the chamber. Disconnect and remove the battery.

2. Unscrew the flat-head screw on the back of the stock.

3. Unscrew the Phillips screw down into the stock tube using a long screwdriver. The stock tube is attached to the gearbox.

4. Remove the two screws on the bottom of the hand grip using a Phillips-head screwdriver. Do not remove the hex key or screw in the middle of the hand grip; this is for adjusting the motor tension to the gearbox.

5. Remove the end plate from the hand grip. Be careful with the small metal shim inside the end plate as not to lose it; this is crucial to the operation and positioning of the gun's motor.

6. Disconnect the black and red wires leads from the motor. Use caution when handling the wire connectors on the motor; they can be delicate.

7. Slide out the motor of the hand grip.

8. Remove two screws inside the hand grip that hold it to the gearbox. Remove the hand grip.

9. Remove the release button and spring (underneath the button) for the BB magazine by using a small screwdriver.

10. Remove the back body pin on the receiver. Remove the front body pin and divide the lower and upper receiver--this will require some force; however, do not crack the tabs.

11. Remove the gearbox.

12. Remove the barrel by sliding it out and unscrew the four screws that hold the receiver assembly and outer barrel and together.

13. Remove the outer barrel from the receiver.

14. Separate the inner and outer barrels.

15. Take off the clip from the barrels hop-up unit with needle-nose pliers.

16. Carefully remove the barrel from the hop-up unit.

17.Remove the hop-up bucking from the barrel. Replace with the new barrel.

18. Reverse the steps above to put the airsoft gun back together. When assembling the gun, install the new gearbox and motor.

Tags: hand grip, gearbox Remove, Adjust Airsoft, barrel from, gearbox motor, grip Remove

Load A Thompson Colt 45

The Thompson Colt 45 is a model 1911 pistol produced by Auto Ordnance Firearms. The pistol is built to the original model 1911 specifications, has a five- inch barrel and a magazine capacity of seven rounds. The pistol is chambered to fire .45 ACP bullets. The Thomson 1911 pistol is well made and very reliable. Remember to exercise care when handling your pistol: treat every weapon as if it is loaded --even if it isn't. For best results, Auto Ordnance recommends using only factory-loaded bullets in the pistol.

Instructions

1. Remove the magazine by pressing the release button, located on the left hand side of the grip, and checking the chamber to ensure that the weapon is unloaded.

2. Position the rear of the bullet on the magazine in front of the magazine's retaining lips -- the curved metal ends that hold the bullet in position. Press the bullet down and slide it rearward into the magazine. Repeat the process until the magazine is loaded.

3. Place the magazine into the magazine well - at the base of the pistol grip - and seat it into position. You will hear an audible click when the magazine is in position.

4. Pull the slide assembly all the way back and release. The action of the slide - returning to the forward position - will load the first bullet into the pistol's chamber. The pistol is now loaded.

Tags: 1911 pistol, Auto Ordnance, into magazine, model 1911, position will, Thompson Colt

Identify A Paint Ball Gun By The Symbol

Identify a Paint Ball Gun by the Symbol

Identifying your paintball gun will be helpful when in need of new accessories and paintballs. Without knowing the brand of your gun, it is possible to purchase the incorrect size of paintball. Knowing the brand of your gun is also useful when seeking equipment such as a carrying case or holder.

Instructions

1. Identify the specific color to the brand. Both the Eclipse and Dye matrix brands utilize the colors blue and silver. The Pronto and Tippman, however, are marked in red, white and black. Notice even the slightest bit of color, as in the Airow Gun brand, which places a pink splatter of paint between the words of the brand name.

2. Recognize a specific character or detail. Details, such as the tilted target design of the Smart Parts brand, will help differentiate one gun from another. Notice the dripping paint feature that is vaguely visible beneath the E from the Eclipse emblem. See how the Pronto marking is slanted in a downward fashion, whereas the Kingman symbol is written in an upward diagonal.

3. View the overall size of the emblem in comparison to the gun. Some paintball guns, such as in the Mini brand, have logos that require a large space. The Mini brand logo takes up 50 percent of the handle. The U.S. Army brand, however, sits in the belly of the gun and uses a space no larger than the size of the trigger hole.

4. Review the marking for specific letters. Several of the most well-known brands on the market clearly state their names within the symbol, such as Tippmann, Proto and Kingmen. In brands J.T. Guns and B.T. Paintball the logo simply states J.T. and B.T. respectively. The Dye Matrix brand simply places Dye across the center of its emblem. Eclipse is one of the very few widely known brands that only has one letter on the marking.

Tags: Ball Symbol, brand your, Identify Paint, Identify Paint Ball, Mini brand, Paint Ball, Paint Ball Symbol

Design Your Own Football Jersey For Kids

A uniform may be a piece of pride for young players.

The right design for a youth football jersey makes the kids comfortable while looking good. When the smallest of athletes hit the gridiron, their uniforms often resemble those of professional players. Little helmets and colorful uniforms run onto the field in miniature. These uniforms give the team a feel of unity and let onlookers know who the team is. When choosing the outfits, keep the cost in mind. Not all participating players will be able to afford high-priced uniforms.

Instructions

1. Read all rules and regulations regarding uniforms for the team. Many organizations have specific placement for numbers, patches and logos.

2. Fit the jersey to the child and the team colors. The jersey should reach just below the waistband of the pants intended to be worn with the jersey. Be sure the fit includes the right padding. The primary team color should be the base color of the jersey.

3. Iron-on the assigned number to the front and the back of the jersey. Use medium or small size numbers to fit the small size of the jersey. Set the iron to medium heat. Center the numbers on the front and the back. Iron the entire number evenly. For teams, specific numbers are assigned for specific positions. The secondary team color is typically the color of the numbers. In some cases, white numbers are the most appropriate for visualization on the field.

4. Place a small team logo on the right sleeve. Hot glue the patch onto the center, outside of the sleeve.

5. Iron-on the team name across the top front of the jersey. Evenly space small letters across the front of the jersey and iron with a medium hot iron. These letters should be the team's secondary color or white.

Tags: across front, across front jersey, front back, front jersey, jersey iron

Vacations Near Pittsburgh Pennsylvania

Vacations can be enjoyed in many places near Pittsburgh.

Pittsburgh is one of the major cities in Pennsylvania, located in the western part of the state. It has many cultural activities within, in addition to restaurants, hotels and a number of attractions. However, there also are plenty of nearby vacation opportunities that offer activities for the whole family.

Raccoon Creek State Park

The great outdoors near Pittsburgh offer numerous vacation opportunities. The state's park system provide many activities near Pittsburgh, which can be explored over multiple days by camping or staying in nearby hotels. Raccoon Creek State Park is an example of this. Located west of Pittsburgh, the park offers 172 modern campsites, open from mid-April through mid-October. Rustic sites can also be found that are open year-round. There is also a three-bedroom lodge that can be rented, which sleeps up to 10 people. Recreational activities at the park include fishing, swimming, hunting, boating, hiking through 44 miles of trails, biking on the 17 miles of trail roads, skiing and maneuvering the 16 miles of equestrian trails on horseback.

Raccoon Creek State Park

3000 Pennsylvania 18

Hookstown, PA 15050-1605

724-899-2200

dcnr.state.pa.us‎

Kennywood

Amusement parks offer vacation opportunities for the whole family. One of the closest to Pittsburgh is Kennywood in West Mifflin. Hotel packages are available in Pittsburgh, Monroeville, Washington, Coraopolis, West Homestead and West Mifflin. Kennywood offers rides like Phantom's Revenge, one of the fastest roller coasters in the world, the Log Jammer, a log flume ride, and the Ghostwood Estate, an eight-room haunted house. There are also a number of shows that go on throughout the day, from the Kenya Safari Acrobats to the Kennywood Laser Spectacular show. Throughout the park, there are more than 30 refreshment stands and snack carts, in addition to the large Parkside Cafe.

Kennywood

4800 Kennywood Blvd.

West Mifflin, PA 15122

412-461-0500

kennywood.com‎

Nemacolin Woodlands Resort

Located about 60 miles south of Pittsburgh is the Nemacolin Woodlands Resort, a great vacation place for families and romantic retreats. This luxury destination is situated on 2,000 acres of wooded land in the Laurel Highlands. The resort has 327 guestrooms, suites, townhouses and private luxury homes on its land, in addition to hookups for RVs. The Woodlands Spa offers relaxing massages and skin treatments. There are also two championship golf courses and a 140-acre outdoors sporting facility for shooting and fly fishing. In addition, the resort has its own Adventure Center, with a climbing wall, zip-line experience, off-road driving class, mountain biking and a paintball course. There are a number of dining options at the resort as well, from the French fine dining restaurant, Lautrec, to the casual pub atmosphere of the Tavern.

Nemacolin Woodlands Resort

1001 Lafayette Drive

Farmington, PA 15437

866-344-6957

nemacolin.com‎

Tags: Creek State, Creek State Park, near Pittsburgh, Nemacolin Woodlands, Nemacolin Woodlands Resort, Raccoon Creek, Raccoon Creek State

Unfog Goggles

Unfog Goggles

Swimming is a popular summer pastime. However, chlorine in swimming pools can irritate eyes, and it is sometimes hard to see in lake water because sand can be stirred up. Swimming goggles can be a good solution for these problems, but the difference in body temperature versus the colder water can cause the lenses to become foggy. Keeping goggles fog free is not difficult, but it might require a bit of trial and error to find the best method.

Instructions

Saliva Method

1. Take goggles off and put a generous amount of saliva on the inside and outside of each lens.

2. Use a finger to rub saliva around the lenses.

3. Rinse the lenses thoroughly with cold water.

4. Put goggles back on and press them firmly to your face to create an airtight seal.

Baby Shampoo Method

5. Place a small drop of baby shampoo on the inside and outside of each lens.

6. Rub baby shampoo around entire surface of both goggle lenses.

7. Rinse baby shampoo with cold water.

8. Put goggles on and and press them firmly to your face to create an airtight seal.

Anti-fogging Solutions

9. Place two drops of anti-fogging solution on the outside of each lens.

10. Spread solution across each lens using a clean cloth.

11. Allow solution to dry thoroughly before using.

Tags: each lens, baby shampoo, outside each, outside each lens, your face create, airtight seal, cold water

Start A Laser Tag Franchise

Business entrepreneurs looking for a gaming franchise have too many "iffy" choices. Technology in hand-held games has encroached on arcade profits. Entertainment fads such as paintball attract a narrow segment of the market, and it's hard to predict what will be popular tomorrow. Learn more about the incredible popularity of professional laser tag facilities. Your initial investment will garner returns from a loyal fan base that only keeps growing.

Instructions

Create a Laser Tag Business Plan

1. Take over an existing laser tag arena and make an immediate profit. Buy an established low-end enterprise and upgrade it to a high-end franchise.

2. Enter an existing market with a new facility. Scout out existing laser tag businesses and move in on the territory of those that don't excel in popularity and profitability.

3. Start from scratch and fill a need. Start a franchise in an area where there is a market vacuum.

4. Affiliate with a local or national laser tag company that offers franchise arrangements. Many of these offer orientation workshops for prospective franchisees.

5. Hire a consulting firm to do a market survey for the location you select.

6. Complete all legal transactions associated with the franchise relationship before you break ground on a new arena.

Plan Your Laser Tag Facility

7. Secure an existing location or choose one that will accommodate at least a 6,000-square-foot multilevel structure.

8. Furnish your arena as directed by franchise guidelines. Floors will be heavy-duty and multiple levels will require ramps and built-in game obstacles. Add a snack shop, video arcade or meeting rooms.

9. Purchase laser tag guns and body sensors, black lights and other game-specific equipment as directed by the franchiser.

10. Install communications and computer controller equipment as recommended by the franchiser, building designer and game manufacturer.

11. Hire dedicated and personable employees as admission and equipment staff, game facilitators and referees, food service workers, janitors and maintenance crew.

Tags: existing laser

Fill A Portable Air Tank

Portable air tanks typically range in capacity from 5 gallons to 8 gallons. The light weight of the small cylindrical tank makes it ideal for adding air to a low-pressure automobile tire. The air tank's small capacity and pressure generally will not fill a completely flat tire. The portable air tank is also useful for inflating small air mattresses and has enough capacity to fill up four or five basketballs. Generally these portable air tanks are filled with a regular air compressor.

Instructions

1. Set the portable air tank on the ground in close proximity to the air compressor. Use the pressure tire gauge to check for any remaining air in the tank if the air tank does not contain an onboard air gauge. Observe the safety label on the side of the portable air tank. The maximum pressure allowed for most portable air tanks is not greater than 120 PSI (pounds per square inch).

2. Start the air compressor. Allow the pressure of the air compressor to reach maximum, generally 120 PSI. Place the filling valve from the compressor to the filling valve on the air tank.

3. Fill the air tank to approximately 50 PSI. Open the lower water drain valve on the air tank and release any water condensate from the tank. Close the drain valve once all signs of water have ceased flowing from the valve.

4. Continue to fill the air tank from the compressor. Stop filling once the tank has reached the manufacturer's displayed tank pressure maximum.

Tags: drain valve, filling valve, from compressor, portable tank, portable tanks, valve tank

Antifog Face Shield Tricks

Anti-Fog Face Shield Tricks

If you've ever had to wear goggles, safety glasses, a face shield or dive mask, you've probably experienced fogging that blurred or blocked your vision. The solutions for this problem are as many and varied as the types of face shields you can find. Fixes for fogging range from the simple and cheap to the expensive and esoteric. Does this Spark an idea?

Causes

Fogging of transparent glass, plastic or composite materials is caused by differences in temperatures between the two sides of the shield. A cold outside and warm inside causes water vapor from your breath to condense on the cold shield, especially in wet or cold weather. In hot weather the shield can be warmer than the air inside the shield and so no fog forms inside. Some helmets or goggles have vents in place to improve circulation inside the shield and reduce the temperature differences between the inside and outside of the shield. This can help reduce fogging some all by itself.

Diver Tricks

Scuba divers have the most pronounced fogging problem because the outside of their face shield is in contact with cold water while the inside is next to a warm moist face. Divers early on discovered that if you spit on the inside of the mask, rub it around on the plastic faceplate and then give it a quick rinse, the mask won't fog for an hour or so. Another substance that does the same thing is liquid dish soap. You can, of course, buy commercial anti-fog preparations at the dive shop, but most amateur divers don't bother, so effective is human saliva as an anti-fogging solution.

Motorcyclist Tips

Bikers use a simple bar of wet soap rubbed on the inside of the face shield. Rub the soap on, then wipe it clean and buff it clear with a paper towel. Dishwashing soap works in the same way. You can also rub a potato, apple or pear on the inside of the shield and then wipe clean. Potato works best. Shaving cream works if you spray it on and then wipe clean with a clean soft handkerchief, paper towel or newspaper.

Cleaning Chemicals

Various bathroom and kitchen cleaners will reduce fogging, but those with bleach or ammonia can cause your eyes to sting if your face is close to the shield. Some furniture cleaners work as an anti-fogger, but you'll have to experiment to see which ones don't leave a hazy film on the glass. Plastic cleaners and glass cleaners may help reduce fogging, but again, chemicals in the sprays may cause your eyes to burn so test them out first before you use the shield.

Commercial Anti-Foggers

Commercial solutions include inserts that create a second insulating layer to reduce the temperature differential between the inside and outside can be bought at cycle shops. Permanent chemical treatments that can be applied to the surface of the shield are also available at cycle and dive shops along with temporary anti-fog solutions that are applied immediately before you ride.

Tags: face shield, inside shield, reduce fogging, then wipe, then wipe clean

Sealing Methods For Aluminum Anodizing

Aluminum is a type of metal that cannot rust.

Anodizing solutions are well-known for producing pores in the coating of the anodizing aluminum. These pores absorb dyes and also retain lubricants, if any are applied. In addition, they also provide areas through which the metal can corrode easily. To increase the corrosion resistance and dye retention, sealing is usually applied. Several sealing methods that are used include the use of boiling water, potassium dichromate and nickel acetate.

The Boiling Water Method

This process involves a long immersion of the anodized aluminum in boiling hot water, which has been deionized or is in steam form. This method is not very expensive, as it reduces abrasion resistance only by 20 percent. The oxide is converted into a hydrated form, and the swelling that results reduces the surface porosity.

The Nickel Fluoride Method

This process has been used as an alternative to the hot sealing methods, which, although preventing corrosion, are known to make the anodized aluminum softer; it is a cold sealing process, involving the addition of fluoride nickel to the anodized aluminum. The fluoride ions enter into the pores, which act as the place for the exchange mechanism. Once in the pores, the ions cause a shift in pH, which causes the nickel ions to precipitate. The nickel hydroxide formed then blocks the mouth of the pores, effectively sealing the film. A slow step occurs next, whereby water from the atmosphere diffuses into the film, causing the pores to block, and eventually a film is produced, which is effectively sealed.

The Nickel Acetate Method

The use of nickel acetate works based on the same principle as the use of nickel fluoride, since the nickel ions are still incorporated into the pores. The nickel ions then block or fill the mouths of these pores. However, in this method, the anodized aluminum extrusions have to be heated to a temperature of approximately 100 degrees Centigrade (212 degrees Fahrenheit). This method takes place through hydrolysis, whereby the nickel hydroxide precipitates in the pores of the coating.

Potassium Dichromate

For better resistance to corrosion and saline conditions, the anodic coatings are usually sealed with a 5 percent solution of potassium dichromate. The solutions usually operate at a boiling point, and the immersion takes place for about 15 minutes. At a pH of about 5 to 6, the chromate ions absorption takes place, allowing for the hydration of the coating. The dichromate-coated sealants are not so resistant to staining compared to the other sealant methods.

Tags: anodized aluminum, nickel ions, takes place, boiling water, into pores, Method This, Method This process

Tips On Airsoft Gun Wars

Airsoft guns have risen in popularity over the past few years, and with them so have Airsoft gun wars. Airsoft gun wars are exactly what they sound like. A group of people, all who have Airsoft guns, shoot at each other in mock battles akin to paintball gunfights.

Practice

The biggest tip for Airsoft gun wars? Practice. Don't enter an Airsoft gun war if you don't know what you're doing. Skip the first war, and take the time to practice aiming, quick reloading, and generally just getting to know your gun and how it works. This will save you from spending an entire battle on the ground, being shot at by people who know what they're doing.

Location

A key difference between a good Airsoft gunbattle and a terrible one is where you hold the battle. Open areas are great, but if you don't have options for cover, the battle is going to get tiresome pretty quickly. A good mix between running room and places to hide is a guaranteed good time. Also, make sure to designate the area in a way that is clear to fringe people. You don't want people walking through your battlefield or getting hit by stray pellets.

Safety

If someone doesn't have protective eye gear and padding, they don't play. Period. It's not worth the risk of injury. A stray pellet, or even an aimed one, hitting somebody in the eye can blind them. Airsoft guns should not be underestimated. They are firearms, and they can do serious damage if you are not properly protected.

Don't Take Cheap Shots

It might be tempting to take cover and snipe at your opponents, but what fun is that? It will aggravate the other players, make you look like you don't know play and generally just bring everything down. If you are on a team, and your team sets you up in that position, then fine. But, if you just take that post on your own, that's not good sportsmanship. Run around, dodge, weave, duck and sprint like hell. Not only is it good for the game, but you'll have a lot more fun than by just hanging back.

The More the Merrier

More people means more chaos, means more fun. Get a large group of people and break everyone up into two, or even three, teams. Make sure your playing area can accommodate the number of people, and then start the war. Four people shooting at each other is fun, but only for a while. Fourteen people shooting at each other? That's fun that will last much longer.

Tags: Airsoft guns, Airsoft wars, each other, generally just, group people, have Airsoft

Tippmann A5 Tips

Known for its speed and numerous customization options, the Tippmann A-5 is designed to withstand years of hard use on the paintball fields. This high-end paintball marker is sure to bring success and enjoyment to both amateur and all-star paintball players alike.

Preparation and Air Tank Selection

Before you charge onto the field with the Tippmann A-5, you need some gear to operate the marker and safely play the game. These essentials include an air tank, paintballs, a barrel safety cover and a face mask. Almost all retail versions of the A-5 come with a CO2 tank. These tanks work well for casual playing and are convenient to refill. Most sporting goods stores and even mass-retailers like Wal-Mart have tank refills and exchanges available.

Many paintball stores, fields and tournaments have transitioned to using exclusively either compressed air or nitrogen tanks because they provide a more consistent shooting pressure than CO2. Compressed air and nitrogen can be used interchangeably, but it is not safe to refill a CO2 tank with one of these or vice versa. Because each of these tank types can attach differently to the A-5, follow the manufacturer's instructions closely to connect and disconnect your tank of choice properly.

Accessories and Customization Strategies

The A-5 is a quality marker right out of the box, but the ability to customize the A-5 makes it stand out. Custom upgrades can be costly, so before purchasing all the gadgets available, determine what will fit best with your paintball strategy.

For example, if more accuracy is what you are after, consider adding the A-5 16-inch Straightline barrel and a red dot scope. If you enjoy being the stealth player on your team, invest in sniper gear including an A-5 14-inch Sniper barrel and collapsible stock. An A-5 Stovepipe hopper adapter, which moves the angle of the hopper so that you can accurately use a scope or sight, sniper scope and a remote line will also improve your sniper abilities.

If you prefer to make a scene, add an A-5 Flatline barrel and the A-5 Response Trigger kit. The A-5 is already decently loud, but adding these options will make your marker sound like an entire platoon. This can aid you in causing a distraction so your team can sneak around and surprise the competition.

Care of the Marker

You will rarely need to do any maintenance or interior cleaning on your A-5, especially while out playing. If you do, though, the marker can be completely taken apart and reassembled in the field without tools in 1 minute.

The barrel is the usual place for paint and debris to get inside your marker. For that reason, most A-5 barrels simply screw off. Run the squeegee that came with the marker through the barrel and that should clean it. Having the barrel off the marker also gives you access to some of the chamber area, so do a quick check and wipe through of that area also.

For a more thorough cleaning, disassemble the marker and examine the parts for stuck paint or any other debris. Pay extra attention to O-rings and the bolt spring, and use just a bit of oil in the areas where it is needed.

Tags: your marker, your team

Nitrous Bottle Opener Instructions

Nitrous bottle openers are used to open your nitrous bottle without getting out of your vehicle. A nitrous bottle contains pressurized nitrous oxide, which increases the horsepower of your car engine. The nitrous bottle opener is remote-operated and operates at the touch of a switch; this means you will never have to use your hand to open your nitrous bottle. Installing a nitrous bottle opener is a straightforward process.

Instructions

1. Unplug the negative cable of the car battery. A small flat headed screwdriver or a pick should be used to remove the cap from the bottle valve handle.

2. Loosen the nut using a 1/2-inch socket, while exercising care not to open the bottle valve. Take off the handle from the top of the bottle. Place the bottle gear over the square brass stem above the valve.

3. Bolt the lock nut and tighten it securely. Use a straight blade screwdriver to open and close the valve. This process is executed to ensure that the bottle valve is not tightened excessively, since that can prevent the motor from opening. In cases where there are no attachments on the bottle opening, be careful to avoid nitrous squirts to your skin and eyes.

4. Place the bottle opener body over the bottle gear and ensure that the gear on the motor and the bottle gear fit together. On completion of the main body installation, fasten the T-bolt clamp securely. Mount the electrical box with the Velcro included in the package. You should assemble the electrical box at the closest location to the bottle.

5. Attach the two pin weather packs from the electrical motor to the mate connected to the electrical box. Insert the orange wire (with fuse) into a key-on 12-volt power source. Drill a 1/2-inch hole into the driver's compartment and attach the arming switch.

6. Insert the blue wire from the electrical box into the center terminal of the arming switch. Attach the pin, on the arming switch, near to the light-emitting diode (LED) to ground. Move the terminal away from the LED and connect the terminal to the key-on 12-volt power supply.

7. Check the arming switch. Ensure that the switch is closed with the LED up. Connect the negative battery cable.

Tags: nitrous bottle, arming switch, bottle gear, bottle opener, bottle valve

What Items Are Not Allowed On An Airplane Flight

For the safety of passengers and crew, the Transportation Safety Administration regulates what items passengers can bring on airplanes. There are different regulations for carry-on baggage and checked baggage so be sure you know which items are in which baggage. These regulations are subject to change, so if you would like for the TSA to send you an email when they change, you can subscribe at the link provided in the Resources section.

Explosives

The TSA prevents any explosives from being transported in checked baggage or carry-on baggage. Some of the items that are prohibited are dynamite, grenades, flares, fuels and fireworks. Also banned are lifelike imitations of explosive devices. The only exceptions to this rule are common lighters. Up to two lighters without fuel can be put in checked baggage. If a lighter has fuel, it can either be put in a TSA-approved case or carried on.

Firearms

All guns and gun replicas are prohibited in carry-on luggage. However, many firearm parts are allowed in checked baggage according to TSA rules. In your checked baggage, you may have ammunition, unloaded guns, and gun parts. Gun powder and flares are not allowed. If you chose to transport any firearms in your checked baggage, you must declare them. Some individual airlines may have stricter rules than TSA guidelines.

Weapons and Sharp Objects

The TSA limits the weapons and martial arts equipment that can be transported on planes. Swords, box cutters, ice picks and knives are limited to only checked baggage. If you have scissors that are less than 4 inches long you can bring them as part of your carry-on baggage. Martial arts equipment like billy clubs, nunchakus and night sticks are restricted to checked baggage. If you chose to take these items as carry-on baggage, they must be properly stored to prevent anyone who examines them or handles the baggage from suffering injury.

Tools and Sporting Goods

Tools are generally allowed in carry-on baggage as long as they are less than 7 inches in length. Allowed tools include screw drivers, wrenches and pliers. Other tools like axes, crowbars, hammers and drills as well as tools over 7 inches long can be transported in checked baggage. Sporting equipment, including baseball bats, lacrosse sticks and golf clubs can only be transported in checked baggage.

Liquids

The TSA has a 3-1-1 rule for transporting liquids. This rule means that each liquid container can be no more than 3 ounces. The bottles must all fit in 1 quart-sized bag and each passenger is allowed only 1 bag for holding liquids. Liquids that are an exception to this rule include baby formula, breast milk and medications. These liquids must be declared and inspected before boarding.

Tags: checked baggage, carry-on baggage, transported checked, transported checked baggage, your checked baggage

Recreate Vanessa Hudgens' Signature Waves

Recreate Vanessa Hudgens' Signature Waves

Vanessa Hudgens is one of the most popular young celebrities in Hollywood. Her success with the High School Musical franchise propelled her and her gorgeous hair into everyone's hearts. This tutorial will show you score Vanessa's signature sassy waves. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Make sure your hair is straight and bone dry. This may mean curly-haired girls will have to wash and blow dry before they start. Turn on the flat iron.

2. While you are waiting for the iron to heat (to medium for fine hair, high for coarser hair), brush your hair thoroughly to get out all tangles. Apply a heat protection product.

3. Separate your hair into two pontytails, one on top of the head and one at the nape of the neck. if your hair is long, the top ponytail can be a bun to keep hair out of your way.

4. Hold the end of a small section of hair (no wider that two inches). Run the flat Iron down the section, stopping an inch or two from the ends and twist three times (four times if your hair is past your shoulder blades) and then pull all the way down to the ends and release. This should be one smooth motion.

5. Spray that section lightly with hairspray and continue with the next section. Continue until each section is finished.

6. Once the tight waves have cooled, flip your hair over and finger comb it just a few times before flipping it back. The waves should be relaxed and more effortless looking. Skip this step if you have frizz-prone hair. Instead keep your head upright and lightly finger comb the ends. Add another mist of hairspray and you are red carpet ready.

Tags: your hair, Vanessa Hudgens, finger comb, hair into, Hudgens Signature, Hudgens Signature Waves

Importance Of Knee Pads

Constructions workers often use knee pads.

What do tile layers, carpetinstallers, military personnel, volleyball players, basketball players, cyclists and dancers have in common? They all have the need for knee pads. Many more careers could be listed here, proving that those who must spend an extended amount of time on their knees should wear knee pads.

Purpose

The purpose of knee pads is to protect the thin layer of cartilage and tissue called the meniscus and the patella, or kneecap, while kneeling. Knee pads also guard the knee against abrasions such as might occur during contact sports.

Function

Knee pads work in more than one way, although they serve the same purpose. One type of knee pad functions much like a bonnet for the knee. The pad is tied or buckled in the back of the knee area, with the front of the knee area covered with a protective padding. It resembles a hat over the kneecap. Other knee pads function the way a cuff or glove does. The pad slides over the foot and up the leg, stopping at the knee area. There is padding all the way around the the leg, protecting the knee bend as well as the kneecap.

Significance

Knee pads help slow down the "wearing down" process in those who do more than everyday activities involving the knee. The kneecap itself is only 2 inches across and 1¼ inches thick. Even during normal activity, over a lifetime, the knees wear down. With kneeling, we exacerbate the wear and tear on our kneecaps.

Benefits

Wearing knee pads when engaged in activities that overwork the kneecap can reduce the occurrence of injuries such as bursitis, which is the inflammation of small fluid sacs that cushion and lubricate the knee; tendinitis or tendinosis, caused by inflammation of or small tears to tendons; pica syndrome, when knee ligaments become thickened or unnaturally folded; patellofemoral pain syndrome, indicated by pain in the front of the knee related to the kneecap; or tears of the meniscus, the rubbery cushions that protect the knee joints. These injuries are serious. Some, such as a torn meniscus, may require surgery.

Types

There are cloth and foam knee pads that slide on like cuffs. These protect against bumps, bruises and friction burns such as those that can be experienced during sports. There are some cuff-like knee pads that are designed for less abrasive environments such as gardening. Rubber knee pads help while working on flooring projects such as tile setting. Some designs of knee pads work well with sports such as paintball or baseball as they cover the knee calf and even some of the lower thigh for full protection. Gel knee pads have become very popular as they are both protective and comfortable. They generally strap on, which can make them versatile. They can be worn under clothing or on top. There are pants that have knee pads built in. There are also environmentally safe knee pads that are designed to leave less of your imprint on the Earth after you've knelt there.

Tags: knee pads, knee pads, knee area, knee pads that, pads that

Make Digital Camo Stencils

Natural camouflage allows predators to sneak up on prey.

Digital camo, or camouflage, is very popular with paintball players. Pioneered by the U.S. Army, according to the Hyper Stealth Biotechnology Corporation, it allows the wearer to blend in with his surroundings, and sneak up on opponents. Player’s guns are frequently digitally camouflaged. After taping off the areas not to be painted, simple, inexpensive painting tape camo stencils make the job of camouflaging the weapons fast and easy.

Instructions

1. Locate and print several variations of digital camouflage. United Dynamics Corporation has numerous online pictures, or you can generate your own digital camo designs with an online generator. Print out several small and large-scale digital camo designs.

2. Use painters tape to wrap the edges of the glass scrap (at least eight-inches square) to avoid injury. Decide which areas of the printed digital camo made in Step 1 to make into a stencil. Cut out all the background in and around the camouflage, using a craft or utility knife, working on top of the glass for accurate and easy cutting. Cut more stencils than necessary for lots of variations for the project.

3. Clip a piece of waxed paper, larger than the design, to a clipboard. The waxed paper serves as a liner for the stencil until use. Cover the waxed paper with overlapping pieces of two-inch wide blue painters tape larger than the design you want to make into a stencil.

4. Clip or tape the paper stencil over the blue painters tape already adhered to the waxed paper, and cut out the stencil, through all layers, with the utility or craft knife.

Cut and keep both male and female (positive and negative) stencils. Repeat cutting stencils, making more than needed for lots of variations to select from while stenciling. The female stencils are the small background pieces cut out of the male stencils.

Male stencils are best for the majority of digital camo stenciling, while female counterparts are best for blending.

Tags: waxed paper, digital camo, painters tape, blue painters, blue painters tape, camo designs

What Is An Insurance Waiver

High-risk businesses, such as surfboard rentals, ususally will require you to sign a liability waiver.

A waiver is a legal form or document that releases someone, or some organization, from liability. Insurance waivers usually are offered to, or requested to be signed by, individuals by organizations or companies seeking to document the fact that the individual has declined a certain type of insurance. For instance, someone who lives in Arizona may sign a waiver declining flood insurance coverage offered by his homeowner's insurance company.

Health Insurance Waiver

Many different companies or organizations may provide health insurance waiver forms to individuals. The business where you work may offer a particular health insurance package that contains options or provisions that you find unnecessary. Perhaps your wife already has a health insurance plan that covers many of the contingencies offered by your company, such as dental or vision care. In such a case, your company usually will provide a waiver for you to sign that eliminates your company's dental and vision coverage. Educational institutions often offer the same waiver options for the same reasons. Some colleges, for example, require students to enroll in a health plan offered through the school. Many students may already be enrolled in their parents' health insurance plan and don't need the coverage.

Home Insurance Waiver

Companies that provide homeowners' insurance normally offer "riders" or additional coverage that you can add to your standard homeowners' insurance plan. Many homeowners elect to decline some options, such as flood or earthquake coverage. In those instances, the insurance company will request that the homeowner sign a waiver, which acknowledges that the insurance company offered the coverage and that the homeowner declined the specified package. Companies do this to protect themselves from potential lawsuits in which individuals may claim that they thought they were covered for, say, earthquake damage.

Car Liability Insurance Waiver

Anyone who's ever rented a car has been faced with a rental agent espousing the potential calamity that might befall you if you refuse to sign a "waiver of liability" form. This document is offered to car renters to protect them from liability in case they get into an accident. However, many such waivers protect the car renter only from liability for damage to the rental vehicle and may not cover the other car or physical injuries suffered by the parties involved. You also may be covered for any rental car issues through your own car or homeowners' insurance policies. Make sure to read the car rental liability insurance waiver form carefully before signing it.

Other Liability Waivers

Many organizations and companies use liability waivers as a matter of course in their everyday businesses. Recreation, sports and amusement entities regularly request that participants sign liability waivers before using their facilities. A ski lodge, for example, may require you to sign a waiver before you hit the slopes. Youth football and hockey teams, bungee-jumping companies, carnivals and amusement parks, and companies that rent equipment such as bikes or surf boards usually require you to sign waivers. Even without a waiver in hand, however, many companies involved in high-risk businesses are protected against potential lawsuits due to state laws. Some states have determined that many sports are inherently dangerous and that participants assume liability risk simply by participating. Most tickets to sporting events contain a clause alerting the purchaser that they are assuming risk by attending, say, a baseball game, where a foul ball may cause injury.

Tags: health insurance, sign waiver, from liability, homeowners insurance, insurance company, insurance plan

Outfit Yourself For Paintball

Get a paintgun and mask, plus a few other items, to prepare for this intense action game.

Instructions

1. Buy a paintball gun (see Choose a Paintball Gun).

2. Get a sturdy mask--the most important piece of equipment. For safety's sake, use a quality mask designed specifically for paintball.

3. Wear heavy-duty clothing. Camouflage is best. Sturdy boots or running shoes are a must. A head covering is definitely advisable. Try to cover every exposed area of skin. A paintball on bare flesh is very painful.

4. Buy paintballs and CO2. Buy extra. The amount you need depends on your style of play (single, accurate shooter versus sprayer), but you really don't want to run out midday when you still want to play.

5. Get containers to carry your paintballs in the field. Containers must be tightly sealed, easily accessible and able to pour into your type of loader.

6. Carry a squeegee in your pocket and a rag or handkerchief to wipe off your hits between games.

7. Doublecheck all your gear prior to each game. Reload everything and clean off all paint so nobody disputes any old paint marks.

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Remove Paint From A Paintball Gun

The paint used in paintball is not technically paint.

Paintballing has become a popular activity in recent years for everything from corporate events to stag parties. The concept was originally developed by the armed forces for training exercises without having to use any live ammunition. Over time paintballs are likely to get on the gun, causing problems for the mechanism when it dries or ruining the camouflage effect, thus making you more noticeable. The paint used by paintball guns is very easy to clean off, as it is not technically paint.

Instructions

1. Apply some water to a cloth so it is damp but not wet and remove as much of the paint as possible by hand without using any soap.

2. Apply some liquid soap to the damp cloth to remove any dried in paint.

3. Dry the paintball gun with a dry cloth so there is no water left on the surface.

4. Oil any part of the gun that has gotten damp or may become jammed if the paint dries completely. Spray oil, or liquid oil from a drip can, applied to any mechanical part will prevent this happening.

Tags: Apply some, paint used, paint used paintball, technically paint, used paintball

Tourism In The Pocono Mountains

Tourism in the Pocono Mountains

No matter what season you are looking to travel in, the Pocono Mountains in northeast Pennsylvania offer plenty of activities for family fun or for couples looking for a romantic or adventurous getaway. The Poconos offer 2,400 square miles of mountains, rivers, lakes and woodlands.

Outdoor

Given the terrain, the Poconos offer a variety of outdoor sports for tourists. Skiers and snowboarders have over 163 ski trails to try. In warmer weather, travelers have 261 miles of trails to hike and bike. The activities available to outdoor enthusiasts are seemingly endless: horseback riding, paintball, hunting, boating, fishing, kayaking, white water rafting, adventure sports, rock climbing and more. The Poconos also features 35 golf courses. For those who like to experience the outdoors at a slower pace, there are scenic chair lifts, bird watching, butterfly sanctuaries, carriage rides, gardens, winery tours, hot air balloon rides and snowshoeing. For those who enjoy lounging at the beach or a scenic hike, The Poconos features 150 lakes, 18 waterfalls and 170 miles of river. The Poconos are a great place to see fall foliage.

Historical sites and museums

History buffs have many things to do in the Poconos. The small towns in the four-county area offer many interesting historical sites and museums. Every county in the Pocono Mountains has its own Heritage Driving Tour Map with self-guided tours. Just a sample of some of the fun things to do include: exploring a day-in-the-life of an 1800's farm at the Living Historical Farms at Quiet Valley; the history of Delaware Indians at the Pocono Indian Museum; railway history at Steamtown National Historic Site; a tour of the home of Asa Packer philanthropist, railroad magnate and founder of Lehigh University, at the ASA Packer Museum; and Millbrook Village, a re-creation of a turn-of-the-century village.

Family fun

The Poconos is definitely a place you can feel good about taking the family. No matter what season you go, the whole place is like a playground! Families can plan to camp, rent a villa or stay in an all-inclusive family resort. One of the nice things about the resorts is the availability of activities and the inclusion of some meals. Many even have supervised programs for kids, which means mom and dad can have some time alone to explore. Outside of nature, you can find family friendly activities such as mini-golf, animal farms, zoos and water parks throughout the Poconos.

Where to stay

Part of the fun of a Poconos vacation is choosing where to stay. From typical hotels to quaint bed and breakfasts, there are accommodations for every taste. Resorts are plentiful and resort themes include romance, family fun (weenie roasts and hayrides, indoor water parks), casinos, spas, sports, all-inclusive resorts and more. Bed and Breakfasts and small inns are popular destinations for travelers looking for a relaxing atmosphere. For those who truly want to experience the outdoors, there are plenty of campgrounds.

Vacation packages

You've probably heard or seen a photo of one of the famous wine-glass or heart-shaped tubs, but did you know that they are in the Poconos? According to www.poconoshotels.com, more than 200,000 people honeymoon in the Poconos every year. You can find special vacation packages for weddings, honeymoons, spa getaways, golf, skiing, fishing, family fun, romance (there are couples-only resorts) and more.

Tags: Pocono Mountains, experience outdoors, matter what, matter what season, Poconos offer, resorts more

Make Paintball Assault Vehicles

PAV under construction

Many larger paintball courses allow the limited use of Paintball Assault Vehicles (PAVs) during tournaments and special events. There are typically strict rules on their use, including speed limits, a requirement that they be used primarily to get from one place top another, and prohibitions on running other players down. A well-built assault vehicle can turn the tide of an encounter, while a poor one makes you a big target.

Instructions

1. Build a square box frame around the passenger cab of the golf cart using the 2x4s. Make sure it is properly seated and attached to the cart, as your armor plates will be attached to this frame rather than directly to the plastic of the cart.

2. Prepare at least three plywood armor sheets by cutting out windows large enough from which to see and shoot. Make sure the front window is large enough to drive through.

3. Camouflage both sides of the armor sheets with spray paint and allow them to dry for at least 30 minutes.

4. Use the drill to screw together the front armor sheet as well as the quarter-inch plastic to create a windshield for the front.

5. Attach armor sheets to the front and sides of the PAV frame, leaving the rear for entry.

Tags: armor sheets, Assault Vehicles, large enough, Make sure, Paintball Assault

Visit The Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum & Planetarium In San Jose California

Entryway to the Rosicrucian Museum. The building's architecture is inspired by the Temple of Amon at Karnak.

San Jose, California is far from Egypt and seems an unlikely place to find a museum dedicated to ancient Egypt, but the Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum and Planetarium is a wonderful resource for anyone interested in the history of the Egyptians. What you will see there may surprise you, as you step out of the present and make a journey back into ancient Egypt in the middle of Silicon Valley.

Instructions

1. Find your way to The Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum and Planetarium, located on 1660 Park Avenue in San Jose, California. The days and times of admission to the museum are Monday to Friday 10 am to 5 pm, and Saturday and Sunday from 11 am to 6 pm. Planetarium shows are Monday to Friday at 2 pm. On Saturday and Sunday, they have two shows at 2 pm and 3:30 pm. They are closed on Easter Sunday, 4th of July, Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year's Day and New Year's Eve. The Rosicrucian Museum is easy to spot. Look for the only building with Egyptian statuary and architecture in the area. There is free parking available.

2. Pay your admission fee and head on in to see the biggest Egyptian collection in North America. Begin with the Afterlife section in Gallery A. It features both human and animal mummies, canopic jars that held the vital organs of the deceased and simple and ornate coffins.

3. Head into the Daily Life and Trade area of the Rosicrucian Museum, in Gallery B. You will see some of what daily life was like for ancient Egyptians, with model displays of people at work and objects of daily living with everything from games to personal care, trade and education artifacts.

4. Go into the Kingship and Religion section in Gallery C next. You will see royal statuary and jewelry dating back to the rulers Akhenaten and his son Tutankhamun in the 18th dynasty.

5. Enter the Shrines gallery of Aten and Sekhmet, which are full of real and replica pieces of art, statuary and even a small replica of a step pyramid. There are displays and galleries representing many of the gods and goddesses of the monotheistic followers of ancient Egypt.

6. Go through the Middle Kingdom tomb for a really eerie experience, stepping into a full-scale replica of a noble's tomb. Although it is a replica built in 1935, this is a popular feature of the museum. The two rooms, the Offering Chamber and the lower the Burial Chamber, are adorned with hieroglyphic inscriptions, wall paintings and even realistic signs of thievery with an empty burial pit and broken wall pieces. It is a must-see part of the Rosicrucian exhibit.

Tags: ancient Egypt, Egyptian Museum, Egyptian Museum Planetarium, Jose California, Museum Planetarium

Make Gun Grips

Gun grips will improve your accuracy by enabling you to make a steadier shot.

Grip is everything in shooting. If the gun slips, then you will misfire. This is a particular problem if you are shooting in warm weather or for an extended time, as sweat will make it doubly difficult to hold onto the smooth sides of the gun. Make sure you get a steady shot every time by placing slip-proof gun grips onto your firearm. By simply making a trip to your hardware store and using a little do-it-yourself spirit, you can make a good pair of gun grips at an economical price.

Instructions

1. To protect your work surface, place down some newspaper. Taking your Phillip's screwdriver, remove the gun grips that are on either side of the gun's butt.

2. Using the rotary drill, rough up your gun grip so it will be better able to take the coating that you will be applying. Set each grip on either a shoebox or a glass jar, or whatever you have to keep it up and away from the newspaper. Two rulers between a pair of boxes will also work well.

3. Apply the rubber paste to the top and the sides of your gun grips, giving them a good, even coat. Using the side of a pencil or pen, even out the sides. You can use a knife if you like, just anything that will make the surface smooth and even out the bumps.

4. Once the rubber paste is set, you can score it a pattern with a razor or leave it as is. Once this is dry, coat it with a spray-paint finish to give it a nice sheen.

5. Repeat this process for a desired level of additional thickness. Attach the grip to the gun.

Tags: rubber paste, that will, will make

Invert A Mini Hp Or Lp

You can invert the tank of a paintball gun by depressuring it.

Whether you have a Mini High Pressure or Low Pressure tank for your paint ball gun, you will eventually need to invert it. The tank keeps the gun pressurized and allows for the powerful shots to be fired. HP tanks are more powerful while LP tanks are more accurate. The point of the inversion is to switch from one type of tank to the other.

Instructions

1. Screw on the ASA adapter to your tank whether it is HP or LP. Attach the gauge to detect the level of nitrogen within the tank.

2. Release the nitrogen gas in the tank slowly by unscrewing the ASA adapter if it is an HP tank. Use the gauge to manage how quickly you are releasing the nitrogen to arrive at 160 to 200 pounds per square inch of pressure within the tank. This is called the operating pressure.

3. Increase PSI in the tank by releasing nitrogen from the tank. Unscrew slowly and watch the gauge until it is 200 PSI for a LP tank. For a HP tank, refer to the regulations of your league, but the pressure will be much higher. Continue applying gas until you've reached the HP level.

4. Cap the tank on your paint ball gun and remove the ASA adapter to complete inverting the weapon.

Tags: invert tank, paint ball, releasing nitrogen, tank your, tank your paint, tanks more, within tank

Make Camouflage Clothes

For anyone wanting to blend into their surroundings, camouflage clothing is essential gear. The key elements of good camouflage clothing consist of an effective color scheme matched with three-dimensional textures, which are designed to diffuse and blend the person's figure into the surroundings by fooling the eye. When employed together, a few simple elements work to alter the appearance of a person so he is unrecognizable. With just a few common items you can make your own camouflage clothes in designs to suit a host of environments. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Select three colors that most closely match the most prevalent few colors in the environment you wish to use the camouflage clothes in. Choose general colors, and don't worry about determining exact hues and tones. For instance, choose black, dark brown and dark green and don't worry about trying to find chestnut brown and pine-needle green.

2. Purchase plain-colored T-shirts from your local retailer in the color scheme you have selected. Avoid expensive fashion brands and designer names and go with more economically priced options. Select a heavy-weight long-sleeved T-shirt and two short-sleeved T-shirts in different colors. The long-sleeved T-shirt will be what is worn, and the other shirts will be used to add color and texture. Purchase a hat and pants in any one of the three colors of the T-shirts.

3. Cut the of the short-sleeved T-shirts into pieces of fabric in three different sizes. Cut small and large square pieces measuring 2 and 4 inches per side respectively. Also cut rectangles 6 inches long. Vary the shapes and sizes among the two different-colored T-shirts so that you have an assortment of shapes, sizes and colors.

4. Attach the pieces of fabric cut from the two T-shirts to the long-sleeved T-shirt by sewing them on. Attach the pieces of fabric in a mixed-up manner so that there are different colors, shapes and sizes scattered randomly about the long-sleeved T-shirt. Cover the entire long-sleeved T-shirt with the pieces of fabric and cut more if necessary. By attaching shreds of fabric you create a camouflage shirt that uses color combinations and three-dimensional textural elements.

5. Tie the 24-inch long piece of twine around the five small branches. Tie each branch to the twine with a secure knot, spacing the branches out evenly over the length of the twine.

6. Attach pieces of fabric to the hat in a similar fashion as in Step 4. Fasten the twine with small branches to the hat by circling the twine around the hat while it's being worn on the head, and tie the ends of the twine securely.

7. Attach pieces of fabric to the pants in a similar fashion as in Step 4.

Tags: pieces fabric, long-sleeved T-shirt, Attach pieces, Attach pieces fabric, shapes sizes, camouflage clothing

Introduce Children To Hide And Go Seek

There are many classic children’s games but one of the most played is Hide and Go Seek. There are various forms of this game with names like Manhunt and Ghost, but it is most commonly referred to as Hide and Go Seek. Introducing this game to your children can become as fun as playing when you were a child.

Instructions

1. Tell your children about the game and how much fun it was to play when you were a child. Teach them the rules in the simplest forms so that they can start off with the basics.

2. Start the game by playing in one room only. This will help avoid confusion the first time that you are playing so that they can understand it before thinking about strategy.

3. Be “It” first so they can have fun hiding and understand what the “It” does. Even if you know where they are hiding, look around for a little longer than usual to keep the anticipation up for them.

4. Find one of them first and instruct them that the first person found is the new "It." Have them count to as high as they can (try not to go past 20 for a one room game) and hide in a fairly easy spot.

5. Teach them the phrase “Ready or Not Here I Come” to use when they have finished counting.

6. Do not give away your spot and let them eventually find you on your own. When they do, praise them and tell them that they did a great job.

7. After a few times in one room, you can expand the game into multiple rooms to make the game more exciting.

8. Set some boundaries during the game like where they can and cannot go and also ban going outside.

9. Implement different things into the game like having to go to base, or if there are a lot of people then you can have teams search for each other.

10. If you want to, take the game outside to open up a lot more options and places to hide. Outside, you will definitely want to set boundaries so that nobody wanders off too far.

11. Let them play on their own and see how they do unless you are having fun and want to keep the enjoyment going. Have them bring friends over as well to participate in a large game for even more fun.

Tags: Hide Seek, that they, game like, Have them, Teach them, them that

Police Motorcycle Training

Police officers on motorcycles can maneuver where patrol cars can not go.

Police motorcycle training includes everything from learning the nomenclature of motorcycles, to learning ride in high stress conditions, to police-specific skills like shooting a weapon while on a motorcycle. Not all police departments handle motorcycle training the same, but most provide at least a basic class.

Basic Motorcycle Knowledge

New motorcycle police officers go through basic motorcycle training in the classroom where they learn motorcycle nomenclature, theories of safe riding, and basic motorcycle maintenance. From the classroom the officer learns about the specific type of motorcycle his department uses, and the department's motorcycle policies. When an officer leaves the classroom, she first learns pick up her motorcycle if it falls on its side. Rather than relying on pure strength that can cause injury, she learns to use technique to get the bike upright.

High Speed Maneuvering

According to Midwest Police Motorcycle Training, officers learn do speed maneuvers under a controlled setting. The officers take the motorcycle to 40 mph and learn to use both front and rear wheel braking together and independently. The officers also learn to control a rear wheel skid. More police specific skills the officers practice include 40 mph evasive and escape maneuvers, handling the bike while emergency braking in a curve, and negotiating curbs and other obstacles.

Slow Speed Maneuvering

It sounds contrary to logic, but maneuvering a motorcycle at high speed requires less skill than tight, slow-speed maneuvers. The skills law enforcement officers learn during motorcycle training allow the officers to turn the bike in tight spaces at very low speeds. To practice slow speed skills officers ride the bikes in tight cone patterns where the officer must apply counter-steering along with an extreme lean angle to get the bike around the obstacles. The officers learn about target fixation, that the bike will go where the rider looks, and that looking with just the eyes does not work as well as turning the whole head.

Tactical Training

Tactical training includes having the officers practice shooting live rounds while sitting on the bike, and in learning use the bike for cover. Motorcycle Cops, a website dedicated to motorcycle officers and their training, says that training should even include practice traffic stops where both the officer and the vehicle driver have paintball guns to simulate the tensions and actions required in such a situation if the weapons were real. Officers need to also learn escort procedures, and in some departments, the officers also learn off-road skills, sometimes on different bikes than they would ride on the street.

Continuing Training

According to Motorcycle Cops, 48.8 percent of law enforcement agencies do no training for motorcycle police officers after the initial ride school. Charleston, S.C. Police Sgt. Rob Grimsley, a 20-year motorcycle police veteran, points out in an article on Motorcycle Cops that continued education greatly increases the safety of motorcycle officers. With regular practice and training, the skills needed in a dangerous situation come back automatically to the officer so she can focus her attention on getting the situation under control rather than having to think about maneuver the motorcycle. Grimsley advocates monthly training under simulated real world conditions to best prepare the motorcycle officer for potential situations while on the job.

Tags: motorcycle police, motorcycle training, also learn, Motorcycle Cops, officers learn, motorcycle officers, motorcycle police officers

Ideas For Celebrating An 18th Birthday In Birmingham Alabama

Party hats lose their appeal somewhere around the age of 10.

Turning 18 is an important milestone and one that should be celebrated with a memorable gala. There are a number of perfectly adequate venues and activities for birthday parties in the Birmingham area, but if you want to throw a truly exceptional party, explore your options beforehand so that you gear your decision towards the personalities of the party-goers and the guest of honor. Does this Spark an idea?

Paintball Party at Fort Red Rock

Get your 18-year-old involved in his own live-action video game with a paintball party. Fort Red Rock Paintball offers a 2-hour private party with up to eight people for $200. Additional guests are $25 each. Guns, masks and 200 paintballs are provided, but refreshments must either be brought or purchased from the snack bar. If you want a late-night firefight, $560 will buy a private nighttime party for up to 16 people.

Fort Red Rock Paintball

223 Mountaintop Industrial Drive

Bessemer, Alabama 35020

205-424-3223

fortredrock.com

Roller Motion Skate Party

Roller Motion Skate Center, which is located 14 miles southwest of Birmingham's city center, is available to rent for private birthday parties. A rollerskating party may seem childish at first, but zooming around a rink to music with up to 50 friends can be a lot of fun. The cost is $225 plus tax to rent the arena for 2 hours. Skate rental, admission, soft drinks and paper products for up to 50 people are included in the rental fee, however, food and cake are not provided.

Roller Motion Skate Center

2474 Morgan Road

Bessemer, AL 35022-

205-424-7000

rollermotionskatecenter.com

Pool Party at the Birmingham Swim League

You can't go wrong with a good old-fashioned pool party. The pool at the Birmingham Swim League pool can be reserved for $60 an hour, with a 2 hour minimum. One lifeguard per every 15 guests must be hired for the duration of the party at $20 per hour. Tables and chairs are available, but other items such as food, decorations, paper goods and favors are not provided.

Birmingham Swim League

1025 Montgomery Highway, Suite 106

Birmingham, AL 35216

205-823-5512

birminghamswimleague.org

Tags: Birmingham Swim, Birmingham Swim League, Fort Rock, Motion Skate, Roller Motion, Roller Motion Skate

Build A Custom Airsoft

An Airsoft gun is a toy replica of the real thing.

An Airsoft gun is an exact replica of a real weapon that shoots plastic BB-size pellets powered by a spring or compressed air. The guns are used in Airsoft games in which players enact war-like scenarios, firing the pellets at each other. You can customize an Airsoft gun so its magazine can hold more pellets than the manufacturer intended. You need a few common tools, but no special skills or expertise. The custom-made magazine clip you make will work in the Airsoft gun just like it did before, but will not need to be reloaded as often.

Instructions

1. Remove the magazine clip from the bottom of the Airsoft gun's handle. Put the Airsoft gun aside.

2. Place the magazine clip on a table with the clear side facing up.

3. Remove the screws from the top left and right sides of the magazine clip with the Phillips-head jeweler’s screwdriver. Remove the screws from the bottom left and right sides of the magazine clip.

4. Pull the black plug out of the bottom assembly of the magazine clip with the tweezers. Put the black plug aside.

5. Pull the bottom assembly off the magazine clip with your fingers. Put the bottom assembly aside.

6. Insert the tip of the flat-edged jeweler’s screwdriver into the seam between the two shells of the magazine clip. Lift up on the tip of the screwdriver to separate the two shells. Pull the clear shell off the bottom shell. Put the clear shell aside.

7. Remove the two rods from inside of the bottom shell with your fingers. Dispose of them in the trash.

8. Cut off the plastic rail that is inside of the bottom shell next to where the two rods were, using the utility knife. Dispose of the plastic rail in the trash.

9. Sharpen the point of a pencil with a pencil sharpener. Cut the pencil in half with the blade of the utility knife.

10. Place the piece of pencil, sharpened end up, into the space formerly occupied by the two rods.

11. Put the clear shell back on the bottom shell. Put the bottom assembly back on the two shells. Reattach the black plug. Reattach the screws.

12. Insert BB pellets into the magazine clip in the normal fashion. Put the magazine clip back into the bottom of the handle of your now customized Airsoft gun.

Tags: magazine clip, bottom assembly, bottom shell, black plug, clear shell

Replace A Paintball Tank Valve

Safety is the #1 rule in replacing a compressed air tank valve / regulator.

Paintball markers are powered by a portable compressed air, nitrous or CO2 compressed gas cylinder. Although the valve or regulator on the tank is rarely defective, occasionally this part needs to be removed for maintenance or replacement.

The process must be undertaken carefully. Unless key safety precautions are accurately followed, serious injury could result.

Instructions

Removal and Replacement of Regulator / Valve Body

1. The most important step in this process is verifying that the tank is 100% degassed and at room temperature before beginning the process. On a compressed air tank, slowly remove the fill nipple with the crescent wrench. Once air begins to escape from a partially removed part, stop and allow any compressed gas to escape. The same is required with a CO2 tank, although the part to be removed is the burst disk, not a fill nipple.

2. After the disk / nipple is completely removed from the tank, allow the tank to return to room temperature. The escaping gas likely super-cooled the tank, making removing the valve very difficult. Wait until the tank is at the same temperature as the room before continuing.

3. Using the adjustable wrench, remove the valve / regulator by turning the valve counter clockwise. This should be done with the burst disk / fill nipple still removed from the valve. You may need to use a hot air hair dryer or heat gun to loosen the threads of the valve. Do not overheat the tank and do not use a propane torch.

4. After the valve / regulator is removed, allow the tank to return to room temperature. Carefully inspect the threads in the tank, and use the cotton swabs to remove any foreign debris, such as paintball paint residue or dried threadlocker. Similarly, clean the threads on the valve / regulator.

5. Inspect the o-ring on the valve body. Replace if checked, torn or worn. Apply a light coating of o-ring lubricant to the black rubber o-ring on the valve body. Apply a light coating of threadlocker to the valve body brass threads. Follow manufacturer's instructions to allow the threadlocker to tack up, and then thread the valve into the tank. The valve should be snugged up to the tank only. Do not over tighten.

6. Replace the burst disk / fill nipple to the tank. Apply a light coating of thread sealant to the part before inserting into the regulator body. Tighten these parts firmly. Allow the tank seals to dry for at least eight hours before pressurizing the tank.

Tags: valve regulator, fill nipple, Apply light, Apply light coating, burst disk

Ensure Victory In Airsoft Battles The Master Chief Way

For those of you who are just batty about Halo, there's good news. You can continue playing Halo without actually playing the game. Just get some armor, a helmet and paintball guns you can dual-wield and hit the battlegrounds. However, as one player stated, "You are not Master Chief... Remember, THIS IS REAL! There are no actual respawn points, so don't get shot in the head!"

Instructions

1. Buy two electric guns that have some juice; FPS 300 or more should help you to stalk victory in Airsoft battles the Master Chief way. Practice dual-wielding them before you venture into battle. No sense in getting "blown away" the instant you enter the fray.

2. Mod your guns so they look like those that the Master Chief uses in Halo. You might as well look as close to the real thing as possible.

3. Collect some paint ball armor. Get a full head helmet, goggles and other guards. Despite the name, getting hit with an Airsoft does hurt. Wear the gear so you can practice firing and getting around. You'll be attempting some covert moves while fully armored and dual-wielding two paintball guns, so practice everything in neutral territory.

4. Act covertly once you're on the battlefield and work on firing your guns in two different directions. You'll sound like more than one attacker. Once your enemy's thoroughly confused, disappear only to reappear in another location and repeat the tactic.

5. Pick off targets who have separated themselves from the rest, then take out the leaders, thus depriving the enemy of leadership.

6. Be aware of your surroundings. Remember that you won't have a map in the corner of your screen letting you know the locations of your enemy's forces. This is real life (sort of) and not a video game.

7. Take a page from the Splinter Cell book and apply Sam Fisher's favorite tactics to make cover and shadows your friends. Use both to stay invisible and out of your enemy's sight.

Tags: Master Chief, your enemy, paintball guns, that have, your guns