Thinking about my next airgun purchase.

Airgun purchase cannot be a casual affair. At least not for me. Quality adult airguns are expensive, and by the time you add on the expense of a quality scope and scope mount, you have some serious cash invested in a purchase. My inventory (probably better stated as my collection) is currently fairly simple – Beeman R7 .177, Beeman R1 .22, and Beeman R1 .20 Carbine.

Beeman is doing something a little unusual (at least to me) with their 2009 options. Option 1 is a Double Gold, which includes a mounted scope and muzzle brake, but does include open sights or drill-outs for open sights. Option 2 includes a scope mount and muzzle brake, but once again no open sights or the option to mount sights at a future date. In other words, the first two options are for airgunners that are always going to use scopes – with these two options it is not possible to add on open sights at a later date. Option 2 is the HW equivalent of the Beeman gun (i.e. a Beeman R1 is a HW80).

I have been looking at several different guns for my next purchase, but my top two are just not available. I would like an R7 in .20 caliber, but I want it with open sights for the flexibility of going scope or sights. 99% of my shooting will always be with scopes, so I probably just need to get over myself, but I am a picky SOB. As I said, adult airguns are expensive, so prudence with purchases is in order. Unfortunately it does not look like the HW30S (R7 = HW30S) is offered by Beeman in the .20 caliber.

The other airgun that I have my eyes on is an R1 .177 Carbine, but much like the HW30S, Beeman does not offer the HW80 .177 as a Carbine, which is really a damn shame because I love the size of a Carbine.

So where does that leave me? I am currently looking at several different options for my next airgun purchase.

Option 1: HW50S .22
I have had my eye on an HW50S for a long time, and a .22 would bridge the gap nicely between my R7 and R1s. A .22 version of the HW50S may not be the best power plant for the HW50S, but I like the larger calibers. I think this would be a great addition for backyard plinking and pest control.

Option 2: HW80 .177
I may go this route and pursue a Carbine barrel directly from Beeman or as an aftermarket add on (i.e. second-hand; used; yellow forum classifieds).

Option 3: Chrony and Scope Upgrade for the R1 .20 Carbine
If I cannot get what I really want, I may just go in a completely different direction and hold off on a purchase. I do not have a Chrony, a quality shooting bench and bags, and then some. I could also use a better scope on my R1 .20 Carbine

Instead of buying a new airgun, I could just invest that money in some quality items that would help me further enjoy my current collection.

Option 4: HW97 or HW77
I think either gun would be a good way to get into field target, plus both would be great for paper punching. I have three problems with this option. First, which airgun would I get; they both seem so similar. Second, how do I decide between a .20 HW97 and .177 HW97? Finally, I do not shoot field target, so this is probably just an overly optimistic purchase.

Option 5: Go PCP
I am not going to go into a lot of detail here. I just do not think I am ready to take the PCP plunge (what some airgunners call going to the “dark side”). It is in the back of my mind, and I keep reading reviews, and am strongly considering a .22 Benjamin Sheridan Marauder, which would be the perfect way for me to enjoy backyard shooting without disturbing the neighbors.

So there you have it. Five different options, but none are convincing enough to make me move one way or the other. It is always therapeutic getting this on “paper” but I just cannot make up my mind. More to come later.

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Now drinking. A new favorite. Abita Jockamo IPA.

This week’s installment introduces the Recycle Bin to a new delectable nectar of the gods that is right up there with, dare I say possibly (maybe) surpassing, the goodness of Sweetwater 420. On the Friday drive home from work I ducked into the local brownbag package store [that would be Mr. B’s] and picked up a six-pack of Abita Jockamo IPA and my taste buds rejoiced with the experience of this wonderful IPA.

This IPA is really different from others I have tried – the blend of semi-sweet malts and not overly bitter hops provides a wonderful blend of drinkability. The 6.50% ABV was surprising, so moderation is definitely in order.

I am not sure if Jockamo IPA will replace Sweetwater 420, Sierra Nevada Pale Ale, or Terrapin Rye Pale Ale as one of my Top 3 favorite beers; time will eventually tell the tale. I am certain that Jockamo IPA will end up in my favorite’s rotation, and show up during this upcoming season of Falcons tailgates.

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Madden 10 – First game.

This is one of those stupid first impression articles that long time sports gamers dread. The kind that ends in It’s the best one yet!”. You know; the kind that we all hate, love to slam, and all that jazz. It had to happen to me some day.

I only had time for a quick game last night. I did not play around with any of the settings, other than changing my favorite team to the Atlanta Falcons. I think that means the game was on Pro, and 7 minute quarters with an accelerated clock.  Not sure if the IQ thing was turned on, but I think it was because IQ500 was displayed at the start and end of the games.

I picked the 70’s red helmets, gray pants, and current red jerseys. Horrid combination, but fun. Played Tampa Bay and won 17-0.

The presentation is truly upgraded, and is a welcome enhancement. No, it has nothing to do with the gameplay, but it is worth pointing out. Besides, I only played one game so I don’t have a lot of gamplay bobbles to throw your way!

I started the game on defense, and I had no idea what I was doing so I just used the “Ask Madden” option. Same for controls; I could not work much magic, and after looking at the in-game controls options, I really did not see much in the way of “taking control of your player” or special moves options. I hope this means I just missed a menu or setting. Maybe the game defaults to some sort of easy setting? Regardless, I held the Buccaneers to three and out.

On offense I opened the game up with Matt Ryan’s new toy. Quick Pass route to Tony Gonzalez. While I only had a short gain, I can imagine what the Falcons will do with Gonzalez this year, and it will be impressive. I ended the game with Gonzalez having 4 catches; one other designed play, while the other two where dump off passes.

In past versions of Madden, I never felt like I had time to really learn the playbook. Clock is always ticking. Same for this year. I need to see if there is an option where the accelerated clock runs after you select your play. One thing I did notice straight away – use the Right Analog stick to quickly change the sets. Sub your HB, WR for TE, and put in a Big set. I love the ability to quickly and easily put Michael Turner and Jerious Norwood in the same backfield. The “Falcons” formation is also included; this is Atlanta’s version of the wildcat formation.

The only nitpicks I can offer up right now are not really gameplay related. Sometimes Madden (via the “Ask Madden” feature) will talk over the commentary, leading to a confusing array of dual audio channels. I also saw a couple of graphical animation type screw ups. These resulted in the ball carrier quickly (warp speed) doing something. Usually as part of a tackle sequence.

I won the game 17-0. I had the ball 20+ minutes to the Bucs 7 minutes of possession. I held the Bucs to under 100 yards of offense (2-3 sacks hurt their cause); they did have ~125 kick return yards. I forget my passing yardage, but it was somewhere around 200, while rushing yards were around 60, with a 2.5 yards/rush average. Remember, this is default settings, me not knowing the controls, and after a couple Abita Jockamo IPAs.

I think there is some hope in this version of Madden, but a new season always brings fresh hope. I am not going to end this post by saying that this is the best version ever [WTF, did you think I was a complete tool?], but at least I did not walk away thinking the game sucks. In my book, I call that a win.

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Early Madden 10 Reviews Positive

The early Madden 10 reviews are extremely positive. According to Metacritic Madden 10 currently has an 88% rating from 12 reviews. Of course most of these are mega site type reviews, but the fact that the game has not been panned is encouraging.

I have to wait a couple more hours before I can crack open the game, but do plan to spend some time with it over the weekend.

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Second chances. How will Vick fit in with the Eagles?

I am glad to see that Michael Vick is getting a second chance. Let’s see what he does with it.

I am not surprised that Vick finally signed with a team, but I am surprised with the location. I figured the Philadelphia was set at QB, but just thinking about how rough those fans are makes me wonder what sort of reception we will see Vick receive.

“There won’t be a quarterback controversy,” Reid said. “We have to make sure he gets back in football shape. He comes into a good, stable unit here. Donovan and Michael are very close.”

Reid made sure he spoke with McNabb before signing Vick.

“I pretty much lobbied to get him here,” McNabb said. “I believe in second chances and what better place to get a second chance than here with this group of guys. … He’s no threat to me, not for Kolb. We had the opportunity to add another weapon to our offense.”

If Vick is an importance presence for the Eagles, the December 6th game at the Georgia Dome will be crazy.

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PSN Preorders Debunked

With all the rumors spiraling around about the PS3 price cut, PS3 Slim, PSP Go (will it or won’t it keep a $249 price point), I am glad the rumor of Sony offering PSN preorder bonus has proven false.

I really don’t understand the point. Why reserve a digital copy or a game? It would make sense if a preorder gave you the ability to download games early before they are generally available to the public.

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First Falcons Depth Chart of 2009

No real surprises with the Falcons first depth chart of the year. According to the NFC South Blog

Perhaps the most interesting aspect of the offensive depth chart is the situation at backup wide receiver. With Harry Douglas lost for the season, the Falcons have Marty Booker and Brian Finneran listed as the top two backups. But Robert Ferguson, Chandler Williams, Eric Weems, Troy Bergeron and Aaron Kelly also are in the mix. Also, Chris Redman is listed as the No. 2 quarterback and D.J. Shockley is third.

On the defensive side, the Falcons have rookie Peria Jerry as the first-team nose tackle. The first-teamers in other positions of interest are Stephen Nicholas at strongside linebacker, Brent Grimes at cornerback and Thomas DeCoud at safety.

It will be a surprise if DE Jamaal Anderson actually is a certified number one; can he actually progress enough to not call him a bust? On the WR front it would be nice to see Bergeron [we attended the same high school] move up the charts, but he is listed as fifth string, so he will only make it on low salary, more injuries, and great special teams play.

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Air Rifle Shooting for Pest Control and Rabbiting

I preordered Air Rifle Shooting for Pest Control and Rabbiting by John Bezzant several months ago (March to be exact) from Amazon. I received the book in mid June, and after reading it and leafing through it multiple times, I am ready to offer up a few opinions.

First, the book is a very easy read. Mr. Bezzant has filled the book with a 156 pages of conversational style writing that is easy to pick up, and no matter where you thumb through the book, something of interest seems to catch my eyes. The color pictures are interesting, and the diagrams are simple and easy to understand.

I ordered the book because I enjoy airgun books, but I was specifically looking for something about pest control. Pet control and rabbit hunting stories seemed like an interesting read. Unfortunately, the book is more of an airguns 101 type read, with a little pest control thrown in to boot.

This is not a fault of the book or the author; I was just expecting something different. This book could be considered a perfect starter book for someone new to the hobby, but if you are looking for rabbit hunting stories or airgun hunting techniques, you may find yourself disappointed with this book.

The book consists of nine chapters:

  • Teaching Yourself to Shoot an Air Rifle
  • Suitable Weapons
  • Scopes
  • Ethical Aspects of Air Rifle Hunting
  • Ammunition
  • Know Your Quarry
  • Fieldcraft and Field Equipment
  • The Law
  • Maintaining Your Hunting Rifle

Rounding out the book is an appendix on “The Bazooka” (.25 caliber BAS XL Tactical), Kill Zones, a Glossary of terms, and a semi-useful index.

Some of the diagrams are really useful (especially the ones in the chapter on Scopes). There is a diagram in the Fieldcraft and Field Equipment section that shows you how to estimate distance to a feral pigeon located on the roof of a building. This is probably second nature to anyone that thanks about the math, or to experienced pest control shooters, but seeing the diagram makes a lot of sense.  First estimate your distance to the wall. Then estimate the distance up the wall. Next estimate the distance up the roof. Add all three distances together to get the range, which is probably going to be further than if you just considered a straight line.

The book also contains some really unnecessary fluff. To explain, in the chapter on Ethical Aspects of Air Rifle Hunting there is a section on dispatching injured quarry.

“If you are going to shoot you must know how to kill – not just with a gun but with your bare hands.”

WTF? The book then goes on to explain how to dispatch rabbits, birds, and rats by hand. No thanks.

Air Rifle Shooting for Pest Control and Rabbiting contains a lot of useful and educational material; much more so than unnecessary fluff. In fact I can honestly say that I learned a great deal from the chapter on Scopes. This chapter alone, along with the diagrams on trajectory and line of sight, range settings for different varmints, target groupings, and different point of aim placement for wind condition and kill zones was worth the price of admission.

If you are a collector of airgun books or maybe want a book on the basics of airguns then this does make for an interesting read. Just be warned that you may not find as much airgun hunting information as may be implied by the title.

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Game AI gets intelligent?

I forget how I came across this article on building AI programs to beat Super Mario Bros, Pitfall, and other games, but it is a damn thought provoking read.

Forget about beating human chess grandmasters. Now computer scientists have challenged the best AI programs to beat Nintendo’s “Super Mario Bros.,” and perhaps evolve along the way.

The new competition would pit different AI design approaches against one another, such as programs based on evolutionary learning techniques versus completely hand-coded programs. It uses a heavily modified, Java-based version of “Super Mario Bros.” as a virtual playground for the AIs, with the added challenge of endless random level generation.

Even a little success will offer up better variants of sports games, drones in various games, random level generators, and so forth. If I were a younger man I would love to be involved in this type of project.

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Why would folks buy this Home stuff?

I don’t get this, which either means I am clueless, getting old, or am drunk. Two out of three? And let me tell you that I am unfortunately not drunk. I found this from awesom-home (via N4G).

Apparently Playstation home costumes are more popular then we first thought. Some rare items are being sold on eBay at surprisingly high prices. There’s even a costume that was sold for more then 60$. I get some people like to have rare stuff, but this is kind of crazy. Second-life crazy. Could you imagine if Square did a rare Sephiroth costume? .. Yeah i know, that would be awesome.

The things those crazy kids do these days. My dad would have kicked me in the ass for spending $60 on a f’ing Home costume. Then again, I have never logged into Home, so I probably just don’t get it.

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Wii will dominate Christmas. Does New Super Mario Bros Wii stand a chance?

I did not realize a battle for the ages was looming this holiday season. Australian based site Gameplayer posted a highly entertaining read: Fat Bastards versus Game Nerds

You can bet your left nut/ovary that the Wii will be laying claim to most of the top 10 in the best selling games chart when the curtains draw to a close on 2009 and we all get shit-faced on New Year’s Eve.

Perhaps more intriguing are the two games that are set to vie for the top spot. In the red corner you have Wii Fit Plus, and in the blue you have New Super Mario Bros Wii. Between them they offer a vastly contrasting audience. The former is selling primarily to weight conscious adults, and selling its pants off we might add. At around 22 million global sales, Wii Fit is the third best selling (non-bundled) console game of all time. How’d you like them apples?

My money is on New Super Mario Bros Wii. I think all the cool kids will ask for it for Christmas, while Wii Fit has already been on the market too long to capture the top spot at Christmas.

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PS3 Slim is coming; hold your applause.

I will be glad when Sony gets the PS3 Slim, price cut, relaunch, or whatever out of the way. I am sick and tired of reading all the crap about one of the worst kept secrets in recent memory. The problem is that right now there is really not a whole lot of other videogame news out there (except for PS3 Porn) so this rumor stuff keeps filling up N4G, various searches, all my usual sites, and then some.

Fanning the flames is this article from kotaku.

Allegedly, the French, as a purported screen shot from retailer Micromania’s product database shows the oft-rumored PlayStation 3 “Slim” redesign. If this listing is the real deal—it’s not reflected on Micromania’s web site—it would confirm a long-standing rumor.

That shot, hosted by Total Manga and via NeoGAF’s marathon thread of PS3 Slim speculation, could be easily faked. But the details are inline with recent chatter about the mythical console redesign’s leaks. Micromania supposedly listed a September 1 arrival date and a €299 price point. That’s cheaper than the current €399 model, which has been the target of retailer price drops over the past few weeks.

Of course, previous leaks are just as much confirmation as this rumored listing. There was the Amazon.de product listing for the “PS3 Konsole Slim,” a listing which didn’t last long before it was pulled.

I don’t fault kotaku for running this story. As the writer said, this latest bit could have easily been faked. I just wish someone get an “official” leak so we can all get back to something more productive.

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