Bladesmithing, Blacksmithing, and Metal Working Artisans in General!

 We explore metalworking on the net!
© 2013 Albert A Rasch and
The Rasch Outdoor Chronicles™

Strike When the Iron is Hot!

There is a vibrant metal working community not only out there in the real world, but on the internet as well! people are bending, twisting, melting metals at prodigious rates and in there own backyards and basements. Holy smokes! Ancient mysteries are being unraveled as a matter of course, and we are the lucky recipients of all this information.

I haven't done a Blog Rodeo in quite some time... Shoot I haven't blogged in quite some time either, but the circumstances haven't been conducive to good writing or even thinking for that matter. I think it's going to take quite a bit of time for me to get back to normal.

Well, normal for me anyway!

So lets get back to the metal working shall we?

As you all know I have an interest in all sorts of metal related stuff, not just the bits that come out the front end of 'Mbogo' my favorite Ruger #1.From well crafted tools, to sword blades, I love the work and effort put into each piece, to say nothing of the aesthetics. Look at a well maintained Stanley #45, a Pre-war Colt, or a fine katana forged by a contemporary maker (I'll be introducing you to one shortly!) and regardless of the objects intended use, they have one thing in common.

Quality.

That's right, quality through and through.

It's the small things too. the extra polish, the precise fitting, the use of quality materials. But there are things that are also made from utilitarian materials, and they also exude quality. It's the craftsmanship, the aesthetic excellence (in other words: Dang, that sure looks nice!),


Let's take a look at some of the Artisans I've gotten to know I the last few months!

Postcards from the path is Mr Ford Hallam's blog. A trained goldsmith and an acknowledged master in the art of Tsuba creation, Mr Hallam unselfishly shares all he knows... as long as you make an effort. His forum, Folowing the iron brush is the center of the Tsuba making universe on the net, and has an incredible number of talented artisans in a variety of fields, that much like Mr Hallam, are willing to share their knowledge. Be forewarned! They don't fool around there; it's serious business and you are expected to follow the rules of the Do-jo.. Otherwise you will have to deal with Lorenzo! But we will get to him shortly.

As many of you know I lean heavily towards the firearm side of the spectrum, but what I have learned on Following the iron brush is invaluable to me. Techniques and ideas that I will spend years sorting out and trying in new and potentially dangerous ways. But as fun as that is going to be, the most important thing that I have taken, and that you will take away from Mr Hallam's forum and education, is an appreciation for art, in all its forms.Take a look at the many videos generously provided by Mr Hallam on Youtube: Ford Hallam: Following the iron brush

Cartographer and Bladesmith, John Page is on a major exploration of the metal medium. His blog Shards of the Dark Age has folders to fixed blades, in 15N20 and Mokume Gane, with the occasional hand crafted bow and map thrown in for good measure, John has it! The key thing that really separates John from others is his meticulous exploration of each theme. Whether it's the maps he draws, or the bow he crafted, all of them show an attention to detail that clearly indicates the work af an artisan. John just started blogging, so please stop by and leave him a note or two!

I bet you didn't know this, but there are many American artisans practicing very traditional forms in our very own backyards. I recently made the acquaintance of Dan O'Conner, a bladesmith trained in his own words,  in a short but intensive fashion by Mukansa swordsmith Yoshindo Yoshihar..Dan has documented his work on his blog, Katana Builders and is currently documenting the construction of his Kagi-ba, or in western terms, Blade Smithing Shop . His posts are well illustrated and again another person that shares his knowledge selflessly. Also check out his Twin Oaks Forge where he shares some of his other interests, including fiddle making.  Dan is also a practitioner of Kendo, the Way of the Sword.

I mentioned Lorenzo a moment ago didn't I? Yes well Lorenzo, we will wait a while before delving into Lorenzo's World where the Mad Italian Philosopher, Jeweler, and Tsuba Artist reigns supreme and asks you the Why of what you do in order to understand the Where that you are heading to!

I have pretty much run out of time and need to get going, I'll pick this up soon with several more Smiths, Artists, Craftsmen, and Artisan!

Be safe, stay alert!
Albert


Though he spends most of his time keeping the world safe for democracy and the pursuit of profits, Albert was actually a student of biology. Really. But after a stint as a lab tech performing repetitious and mind-numbing processes that a trained Capuchin monkey could do better, he never returned to the field. Rather he became a bartender. As he once said, "Hell, I was feeding mice all sorts of concoctions. At the club I did the same thing; except I got paid a lot better, and the rats where bigger." He has followed the science of QDM for many years, and fancies himself an aficionado. If you have any questions, or just want to get more information, reach him via TheRaschOutdoorChronicles(at)MSN(dot)com.

Saturday Blog Rodeo 02/11/12

The Best of Outdoor Bloggers and Posts!
© 2012 Albert A Rasch and
The Rasch Outdoor Chronicles

.Image Credit: Daniel Rexy

Blog Rodeo for September 5th

Folks, here are my picks for this week's best posts. It's all old stuff that I think is always good to take a second look at! Now I may have missed a few here and there, and if that's the case don't forget to feel free to remind me to add it to the Rodeo!

By the way, if you have a post that you're particularly proud of, or it's an oldie but a goodie like these, then let me know and I'll link to it and put it on TROC.

First up is Deer Impacts: "In many places, deer and other large ungulates are reaching densities that damage ecosystems and create conflicts with people. This blog represents my attempt to monitor deer conflicts and impacts around the world. Tom Rooney: I am a biology professor at Wright State University, and have been studying the effects of deer on forests since 1995." Really interesting stuff and good information on what's going on with respect to the burgeoning deer population.

Operation Idaho 2009 "This blog has been created as an electronic journal of Brandon and Brad's quest to bowhunt Idaho's backcountry in September 2009. The challenge is that neither have done this before. This blog will serve as record of 6 months of planning and preparation: exercise, diet, archery practice, equipment research, purchase and review, as well as any other aspects backcountry bowhunting." Another really interesting blog. I think it's a great concept, and one that I would like to see more of.

Fred's Hunting Blog, "A Bow Hunter's Adventures in Montana I live in Montana and started bow hunting four seasons ago. The bow hunting bug has hit me hard and I spend way too much time hunting and thinking about hunting. I am not an expert and these are merely my experiences and opinions, take them for what you will." Just a regular guy doing what us guys do best. One of my new favorites.

Patrick Grotto on BowHunting. A fascinating read on bow hunting and taking deer. I'm not sure where to begin as it is all very, very good. The subject matter is varied, and I feel like I am being educated by a sage, who is trying to impart wisdom through the direct, and via metaphor. It's a must see.

Over at Rob's Hunting Journal, Rob has modified a deer cam with some awesome results. Here is the mods: Homebrew Trail Cam and here are the results: Moment of Truth. Rob does a great job of explaining what and how he does it, clearly and in a fashion that is easily followed. The results speak for themselves.

Slob Hunters covers an important topic that we all have to consider. Fair Chase gives some thought and consideration to the subject in a well written post.

NorCal Cazadora wrote several articles for her local regional newspaper and is asking us to support the newspaper by commenting on the paper's website. It is imperative that we support one and other, in addition to allies in the media.

PeTA Watch is a group that keeps an eye on the loons at PeTA. I get quite a bit of intell from these folks, and for those of you that keep tab on the animal rights extremists, this is a great resource.

Alright then, these are this week's highlights, I hope you enjoy them as much as I have.

And don't forget, touch base with me if you would like me to link a story, drum up some interest in one of your posts, or just to shoot the bull. My e-mail is on my profile page.

Regards,
Albert A Rasch
Member: Hunting Sportsmen of the United States HSUS (Let 'em sue me.)
The Hunt Continues...

The "Beats Me What Day This Is" Blog Rodeo!

Top Blogs of the Internet!
© 2011 Albert A Rasch and
The Rasch Outdoor Chronicles™
$g&m f9bd 45kd q!?5.

Blog Rodeo 10/22/2011

Smith's Edition

That's right folks, another Rodeo from the depth of the Afghan Abyss, were indoor plumbing is a luxury, and doom is an equal opportunity destroyer. Welcome to the latest installment of the now, not only infamous, but de rigueur for the erudite and "in the know" outdoor crowd, of the Chronicles' Saturday Blog Rodeo! As you all are amply aware, I plumb the depth and breadth of the blogosphere searching for and commenting upon the diverse outdoor activities, (And some indoor ones too!), bringing you, my faithful and ever patient readers more blogs to read and expand not only your minds, but horizons. So with that said let's get into this week's way off version of the Saturday Blog Rodeo!



The Blacksmith Blog is written by Andrew the Blacksmith, a young and aspiring ummm, blacksmith! His blog is full of basic information in addition to pictorials of his work. Not only is he an artist smith, but he works a little arc welder magic in too. Again he uses it as an adjunct to the more old school hand forged methods he also enjoys.  I want to say, from reading his blog, that his interests may very well lie in the realm of the whimsical and imaginative. He is working in a smaller scale at this moment, with imaginative symbols and animals made of discarded and found scrap steel, but I can imagine him going to large scale and beyond as his skills and vision increase! I think he is going to be another person that we will be following for some time as he progresses and learns his chosen craft!

Image Credit: Eagle Eye Forge

Eagle Eye Forge Bladesmith is Stephen Stumbo a 17 years old amateur blacksmith/bladesmith. He has been blacksmithing for 2 years, and working on blades for 1 year. Take a look at that knife above and tell me what you think he will be capable of in a few more years! His favorite items to create are knives; the one above a skinner he made for his sister! He prefers old school hammer and forge, but he is equally comfortable with modern methods and techniques. His current forge is homemade: a brake drum, some piping, a few cinder blocks and a a discarded hair dryer and... duct tape. Now be that as it may, look at his work here is another young man to be on the lookout for! By the way Stephen, how do you make micarta?

DIY Blacksmithing is a great little blog from Terran "Earthman" Marks, a lumberjacking sort of fellow who enjoys fighting wildfires, painting landscapes and moving metal. He has some great concepts and ideas that he is promoting, in particular commentaries on smithing on the cheap. He hasn't had very much time to update his blog, but I think he will have great info to share as time permits.

The Blacksmith's Shop at The Farmers Museum

I've always enjoyed blacksmithing, though what I do might not necessarily pass for blacksmithing by definition. More like banging on red hot metal for no apparent reason. Now Steve Kellog is a blacksmith.

I bumped into his blog while searching for methods and techniques for forging mainsprings in flintlock locks. Steve's blog Rural Blacksmith is a veritable treasure trove of blacksmithing information! Steve has been blacksmithing for 15 years, and at The Farmers' Museum he teaches classes, present blacksmithing demonstrations on a daily basis, make historically accurate tools and hardware, and researches life and work in the 19th century.

An interesting project that Steve has been part of is a brace of Scottish steel and iron pistols in the Pitcairn style.

The project is inspired by the surviving pistols of British Marine Major John Pitcairn. He is the officer that ended up commanding the troops launching the raids on Lexington and Concord. Those are regarded as the first battles of our war for independence, and the first shot fired in anger is referred to as the “Shot heard around the world”. That shot was attributed by some as having been fired by Maj. Pitcarn from one of these pistols.

Check out Steve's blog; it is a very good one!

 As is usual, I am running out of time, and I am off to yet more adventures... or drudgery which is usually the case. Stop by and visit the blogs I mentioned, And let them know you saw them here!


Best Regards,
Albert A Rasch
Member:  Sperwan Ghar Tent Club
Member: Hunting Sportsmen of the United States HSUS (Let 'em sue me.)
The Hunt Continues...

Saturday Blog Rodeo 02/12/2011

© 2011 Albert A Rasch and
The Rasch Outdoor Chronicles™
$g&m f9bd 45kd q!?5.

Saturday Blog Rodeo 02/12/2011

Welcome to the latest installment of the now, not only infamous, but de rigueur for the erudite and in the know crowd of the Chronicles'Saturday Blog Rodeo! As you all are amply aware, I plumb the depth and breadth of the blogosphere searcing for and commenting upon the diverse outdoor activities, (And some indoor ones too!), bringing you, my faithful and ever patient readers more blogs to read and expand not only your minds, but horizons. So with that said let's get into this week's Saturday Blog Rodeo!


First up on the Rodeo is,

The Sharpened Axe.  Sawmanship, axemanship, cooking on a fireship, the guy is ship shape! Here is a great bushcraft type blog which has lots of tasty tips on all thing bushcraft.  Check out his post Do Haft To? he goes on about his travails with hafting a Hudson Bay Axe. Good fun to be had by all!

Out in Africa:

Next is The African Fly Angler!
The African Fly Angler hails from the beautiful and cosmopolitan city of Cape Town, Western Cape, in South Africa. Cape Town is the second most populous city in South Africa, and originaly settled by the Dutch East Indies Company as a supply station for their ships.

The African Fly Angler started fly fishing about three years ago, and since that time it has almost become an obsession with him. He regularly stalks trout in the beautiful Cape Streams, but also enjoy fishing some still water during the closed season. In addition he also ties flies and sells them to support the habit!

Saturday Blog Rodeo 01/22/2011

© 2011 Albert A Rasch and
The Rasch Outdoor Chronicles™
$g&m f9bd 45kd q!?5.

Welcome to the latest installment of the now famous Chronicles'Saturday Blog Rodeo! As you all are amply aware, I plumb the depth and breadth of the blogosphere searcing for and commenting upon the diverse outdoor activities, (And some indoor ones too!), bring you, my faithful and ecumenical readers more blogs to expand not only your minds, but horizons. So with that said let's get into this week's Saturday Blog Rodeo!

Well, I got off to another early start because Ian at The Wild Life was kind enough to forward a great link to a blog that I bumped into a long time ago, and lost in the shuffle. Trapping Supplies Review is a place for trappers to share their insights on all things related to trapping. CJ also has quite few fellow trappers that like to contribute trapping articles, equipment reviews, stories and pictures from their traplines. Well TSR and CJ have had a run of good luck with the AR loons lately. I say good luck 'cause otherwise there would be noone to poke fun at if they didn't stop by occasionally! In Hate Mail CJ shares the latest email he has received from some half-wit. Hey CJ! Do me a favor and send him my way... I'll be sure he feels welcome! Stop by TSR and learn a few new trricks, or just get an eyeful of a different outdoor activity! And don't forget to tell CJ I sent ya!

The Blacksmith's Shop at The Farmers Museum

I've always enjoyed blacksmithing, though what I do might not neccesarily pass for blacksmithing by definition. More like banging on red hot metal for no apparent reason. Now Steve Kellog is a blacksmith.

I bumped into his blog while searching for methods and techniques for forging mainsprings in flintlock locks. Steve's blog Rural Blacksmith is a veritable treasure trove of blacksmithing information! Steve has been blacksmithing for 15 years, and at The Farmers' Museum he teaches classes, present blacksmithing demonstrations on a daily basis, make historically accurate tools and hardware, and researches life and work in the 19th century.

An interesting project that Steve has been part of is a brace of Scottish steel and iron pistols in the Pitcairn style.

The project is inspired by the surviving pistols of British Marine Major John Pitcarn. He is the officer that ended up commanding the troops launching the raids on Lexington and Concord. Those are regarded as the first battles of our war for independence, and the first shot fired in anger is referred to as the “Shot heard around the world”. That shot was attributed by some as having been fired by Maj. Pitcarn from one of these pistols.

Check out his blog; it is a very good one!

Mr. Barn

Itinerant Woodworker/

Master Spooner

I'm a big fan of woodwroking. Like blacksmithing though, I'm really not that good at it. I have a substantial collection of woodworking tools, which I continue to collect and amass. The next blogger though, is a very accomplished woodworker, and does most, if not all of his work, with nothing more than a crook knife. Barn, as he is known throughout the British Isles, is an itinerant spoonmaker. He is one of the few licensed peddlers in the UK specializing in spoon carving. He created his blog Spooning to help him communicate with the world at large about his adventures. One thing to keep in mind, is that you will have to catch up to the traveling Mr Barn to purchase his wares. He carves spoons for the love of the craft and adventure! So in that sense it isn't a commercial endevour.

Outdoor Gear Testing is Rory's blog on equipment that he personally uses and comments about. He's an avid fisherman, hunter, and outdoor enthusiast, and as you can see from the delightful picture on the right there, his family goes with him where ever he does! Rory spent a night in sub-zero temperatures with his dog Remi to complete a review on the Northface Snowshoe Sleeping Bag. "I am over all happy with my sleeping bags. The big zippers make it easy to use and don't get caught up on the fabric as much as bags with small zippers. The ability to close your self in the bag with only a small opening where your nose would stick out really helps keep the heat it. The female version of the bags also have a fleece pocket to put your hands and where your feet go is all fleece." Good blog, and Rory covers details that others might miss.  Check out Outdoor Gear Testing, I think you'll find his commentaries and reviews worth your time.

I found  A Spinner Weaver through a recommendation by Josh.(Thanks Josh!) Annie McHale weaves narrow sashes and straps on an inkle loom. Before I make a mess of trying to explain an inkle loom, weaving, narrow wares and all that stuff, why don't y'all just head on over in her direction and see what it is that she creates. Annie is a great craftsman and her sashes are really nice. If you do any blackpowder, 17th/18th century reenactment stuff, her straps for bags and sashes to hold up your britches or hose are period correct. Check out her Etsy online shop for more of her hand crafted, one of a kind objects 'de art!

Well, Saturday pretty much snuck up on me and was here before I could add a few more blogs to the rodeo! Good thing about it is that I'll get an early start on next week's production! Here are a couple of blogs that I'll be highlighting:

The Sharpened Axe: He is having a big contest, so stop by now and sign up!
The Maine Outdoorsman: Maine guide and bushwacker
The Saw Blog: Woodworking and saws
Gorges' Grouse: A voice in the wilderness

That's a start! See you next week!

Best Regards,
Albert A Rasch
Member: Shindand Tent Club
Member: Hunting Sportsmen of the United States HSUS (Let 'em sue me.)
The Hunt Continues...

Though he spends most of his time writing and keeping the world safe for democracy, Albert was actually a student of biology. Really. But after a stint as a lab tech performing repetitious and mind-numbing processes that a trained capuchin monkey could do better, he never returned to the field. Rather he became a bartender. As he once said, "Hell, I was feeding mice all sorts of concoctions. At the club I did the same thing; except I got paid a lot better, and the rats where bigger." He has followed the science of QDM for many years, and fancies himself an aficionado. If you have any questions, or just want to get more information, reach him via TheRaschOutdoorChronicles(at)MSN(dot)com.

Scott Croner Albert A Rasch Albert “Afghanus” Rasch Albert A Rasch Scott Croner Nebraska Hunting Scott Croner, Merriam's Turkey Hunting Albert A Rasch Scott Croner Albert A Rasch Albert “Afghanus” Rasch Albert A Rasch Scott Croner Nebraska Hunting Scott Croner Merriam's Turkey Hunting Albert A RaschAlbert A Rasch So, you want to be a contractor. Handfeeding a Baby Mockingbird Clean and Repair your Ruger 10 22 Magazine

Saturday Blog Rodeo 01/15/2011

© 2011 Albert A Rasch and
The Rasch Outdoor Chronicles™
$g&m f9bd 45kd q!?5.

Saturday Blog Rodeo 1/15/2011

Well, I somehow managed to get ahead of the game this week! Once again, as is my habit, I've roamed the ephemeral nether regions of the hunting and outdoorsmen's internet. And as you might imagine, I've picked out posts that I especially enjoyed this past week from all of blogs I follow, and some that I found.

(Remember if you bump into a post you especially like, drop me a note and I'll include it in the Rodeo. You can even feel free to copy this whole post and run it on your own blog; it spreads the word, and it's always nice to give a little link love to your fellow bloggers!)

Look, I've asked y'all to send me a link you would like me to highlight, point me in the direction of a blog I don't know about,  and not a single one of you has ever taken me up on that offer!

Let's see if we might change that this week eh?

First up is an old friend that I haven't visited in quite some time. As you know I once had a beloved Dachhund named Oscar who was deliberately run over by a POS in a red Jeep. My blogging friends John and Jolanta Jeanneny breed and use wirehaired dachshunds for hunting and tracking wounded big game in Berne, NY. Their blog Born to Track News and their sister blog Born to Track Puppies are favorites of mine. Whenever I want to smile, I meander my way there and look at the puppies playing and learning to track.  When I am finally done with Afghanistan, (Or it's done with me...) I am getting me one of those little fellows!

As I have mentioned a few times, Lake Ueilin near my home in Saratsota is home to some monster carp. Little did I know that they are pursued by flyfishermen! Carp on the Fly covers the exciting sport and art of enticeing Asiatic carp to take a fly. Not only does John tackle them on the fly, but so does McTage at FlyCarpin: "...Enter the most ultra aggresive carp feeding pattern. "Seek and Destroy". And yes Metallica should be ringing through your skull right now." I had no idea... Honest.

Here is one of SBW's compatriots! Rob Appleby is an accomplished saltwater fisherman who specializes in using a Kayak. His blog Saltwater Kayak Fisherman, is full of great reviews, tutorials, and opinion pieces, in addition to his fishing exploits. He has several videos that I am sure would be loads of fun and educational. Unfortunately I can't get them through the MilNet filters! But that's not a problem, as his writing more than makes up for it. Two posts have caught my I right from the get go: Fishfinders: Are They Worth It? and Shimano Charter Special 1000 Overhaul. When Rob blogs, it's worth reading. If you have ever considered kayak fishing I would suggest, no make that, insist that you check out Saltwater Kayak Fisherman.

Ian, over at the Wild Life, continues to entertain with thoughts of fratricde. It seems that Mr Hunting Expert's Dad has, shall we say, much better success at taking the wily Whitetail than does his progeny. Before that, Ian contemplated bow fishing. Let's just say that skewered sweet breads takes on a whole new meaning...

As I have mentioned I have taken a keen interest in the early American time period of the 18th Century. I have a big Rasch Outdoor Chronicles surprise for you all, but it may take me some time to put it all together, so be prepared! In the meantime I frequently stop by at Contemporary Makers. "When Robert Weil started collecting images for the Contemporary Makers book in 1973 the challenge to record contemporary gun work was daunting. Gathering material was difficult and time consuming. Few makers thought that there was any value in published documentation of their work. Electronic publishing has changed all that." CM chronicles the art of early Americana, not only in the gun making and accoutrements field but in all forms from textiles to woodworking. Well worth the time spent looking it over; it also gives you great project ideas!

Did you know that the indescribably cute and irrepressable HLYH is freaked out by catfish and has really tiny feet and hands? And then come to find out she's Eskimo?  Totally out of left field, I know, but I think it deserves a post of its own. "Things that Freak Me Out or are Freaky About Me!" She hasn't written it yet, but I'm looking forward to reading it...

After losing the front sight on his Wild ED calls S&W/Walther and receives great customer service :"What a pleasant surprise from the usual customer service I have received here lately from some other companies. I can assure you my future firearm purchases will include S&W or Walther if they are available in the firearm I am needing" Read about the experience at Wild Ed's Texas Outdoors: Customer Service Alive and Well at Smith & Wesson /Walther USA

One of my long time bloging compadres, Ben G. Outdoors, has a new blog Abnormal Outdoors.  AO will Provide the outdoor community with news of the Strange, Weird, and Odd things that happen, live, or conspire in the Outdoors. If you have anything to share, please forward it to Ben; there's always something odd or peculiar going on somewhere, and Abnormal Outdoors will be a great spot to get your fill of the wierd, or my garage, which ever is closer!


Well that wraps it up for this edition of The Saturday Blog Rodeo. I look forward to another week of great reading and writng from y'all!

Best Regards,
Albert A Rasch
Member: Shindand Tent Club
Member: Hunting Sportsmen of the United States HSUS (Let 'em sue me.)
The Hunt Continues...

Saturday Blog Rodeo 11/27/10

© 2010 Albert A Rasch™ and
The Rasch Outdoor Chronicles
$g&m f9bd 45kd q!?5.

Special Craftsman's Edition!
Saturday Blog Rodeo 11/27/10

Well, I did it again, I got ahead of the game this week! Since it worked as well as it did last week, I figured I might as well do it again! Once again, as is my habit, I've roamed the ephemeral nether regions of the hunting and outdoorsmen's internet. And as you might imagine, I've picked out posts that I especially enjoyed this past week from all of blogs I follow, and some that I found. This week I am highlighting the craftsmen I try to emulate, but fail at miserably!

(Remember if you bump into a post you especially like, drop me a note and I'll include it in the Rodeo. You can even feel free to copy this whole post and run it on your own blog; it spreads the word, and it's always nice to give a little link love to your fellow bloggers!)

I might add that not a single one of you has ever taken me up on that offer!

Let's see if we might change that this week eh?

So without further adieu, lets get started!

First up is Wonderful Whittlin'. John G is an accomplished wood carver. I first bumped into John's blog while I was looking at walking sticks. Why was I looking at walking sticks? I don't know, I just was! He had just finished his woodspirit walking stick project and I thought it wonderful. I have always liked carved walking sticks and staffs, and one of these days I may commision one. All of my walking sticks are basically sanded and oiled branches I have picked up in my wandering about. I have an umbrella stand full of them at home by the entry. John's work though, takes it to another level with his fanciful and playful designs! By the way, take a look at that handsome carving knife in the picture.

Next up is my old friend Todd at Primitive Point. As I am sure you all are tired of hearing, Todd actually got me started blogging. At the time I didn't know the medium existed, but through a discussion in a forum he and I frequented, he introduced me to the concept. He's a school teacher during the day, but in his spare time he is a bladesmith. Two things come to my mind when Todd hammers out a workingman's blade at his forge: practical and rugged. His forte is Scandi styled knives and integrals. I think enough of his skill and ability to ask him to consider forging a back-up knife for me. Nuff said.

Nehawka Priitive Skills is another favorite of mine. I really appreciate the effort and skill that many of the Paleo craftsmen have gained and exhibit. Mark, to be simplistic about it, takes rocks, sticks, and bones and turns them into fully functional tools and.... works of art! There's no other way to describe it. Some of his creations are not only lethal, but beautiful in form. I noticed that he hasn't posted in quite some time, so I've sent him an email to see what's up!

A Woodsman's Wanderings & Rambleings is new to me, and I found it through Primitive Point. Joel is a wood carver and bladesmith who makes all of his own working knives. He has several excellent articles and tutorials. To the right you will see an awesome set that Joel was commisioned to put together. That littke package there is pretty close to an ultimate outdoorsman's set. I think it's the cat's pajamas. The heavier bush knife is great for those things that require a little heft, while the skinner can handle all the other lighter tasks. Beautifuly executed!


I have several more that I would like to share with you all, but I have (as usual) run plum out of time again! As I write this it is 0401hours Saturday morning here in Herat province, the natives are restless, and I only have a few minutes to spend with you.

As we enter the holiday seasons, please be safe and secure.
Be alert; keep your eyes open and pay attention!
Complacency will get you hurt, or worse!
We can't be everywhere all of the time; you must take responsibility for your own safety!
Be especially vigilant when you are in crowded, popular places!
Do not be afraid. Be smart, be vigilant!

Best Regards,
Albert A Rasch™
Member: Shindand Tent Club
Member: Hunting Sportsmen of the United States HSUS (Let 'em sue me.)
The Hunt Continues...

Though he spends most of his time writing and keeping the world safe for democracy, Albert was actually a student of biology. Really. But after a stint as a lab tech performing repetitious and mind-numbing processes that a trained capuchin monkey could do better, he never returned to the field. Rather he became a bartender. As he once said, "Hell, I was feeding mice all sorts of concoctions. At the club I did the same thing; except I got paid a lot better, and the rats where bigger." He has followed the science of QDM for many years, and fancies himself an aficionado. If you have any questions, or just want to get more information, reach him via TheRaschOutdoorChronicles(at)MSN(dot)com.

Saturday Blog Rodeo 11/20/10

© 2010 Albert A Rasch™ and
The Rasch Outdoor Chronicles
$g&m f9bd 45kd q!?5.

Saturday Blog Rodeo 11/20/10

Well, I am ahead of the game this week! Since my last two have been cut short due to situations beyond my control, I started early this week.Once again, I've been roaming the hinterlands of the hunting and outdoorsmen's internet and as usual, I've picked out posts that I especially enjoyed this past week from all of blogs I follow, and some that I found. There have really been some better than great ones this week.

(Remember if you bump into a post you especially like, drop me a note and I'll include it in the Rodeo. You can even feel free to copy this whole post and run it on your own blog; it spreads the word, and it's always nice to give a little link love to your fellow bloggers!)

Jim Tantillo of Fair Chase blog has been very kind to highlight my post High Fence Hunting; Is the Public the Problem? on his excellent blog.Two statements caught my eye, "If private companies can do better what the state cannot, then I think we should at least have that discussion,"  and,  "While many hunters enjoy eating the food that hunting yields, food is not the sole motivator for many hunters. Managers who downplay other motivations--including aesthetic motivations for sport and trophy--perhaps are guilty of a kind of blind spot."

By the time you read this, I hope to have put together yet another post on the subject, brought to mind by Jim's thoughtful comments. Please stop by Fair Chase and keep the discussion going.

Quite some time ago, even before I blogged, I had put together a monthly pamphlet called The Rasch Outdoor Chronicles. I had no idea that blogging existed at the time, and I think I mailed copies of it to about a half dozen friends before my computer crashed and I lost all of my templates and articles. Among the many I had written was one called "2 for 1." It was an idea I had for increasing the number of hunters and pro-gun people. I was blog hopping again and I found an old friend "Ethics and Environment," a well written and thought out blog by Josh Stark. In his post Quick thought from the Each One Teach One idea, he reminded me of that idea. Let me quote: "Hunters, if you are so inclined, I recommend you seek out some of your more environmentalist acquaintances, talk up the beauty and experience of intimately knowing your habitats and gaining sustenance from them, and see what happens." I think this post is another one that has made me think of some great ideas to expand and act upon! Thanks Josh!

Allegheny Mountain Wanderings is one of my favorite blogs. I am always taken by the delightful pictures and good down to earth writing! It doesn't hurt that Mr Grimes is also a 16 gauge afficionado like myself, and also loves fine doubles, again like myself! You can do no better than to peruse his posts and enjoy a nice evening of reading. "Haven't had a chance to shoot her at the pattern board yet but she really dusts the claybirds when I do my part..." Check out his new Guild Gun a 16 hammer gun: Introducing Collett.

I was introduced to Silk Lines and Paper Hulls through the comment section on Chad's Mallard of Discontent. I know the good stuff when I see it. Imagine the discipline it takes to compose the following: "...I've kept a steadfast image in my head that if I remained diligent, perseverance would eventually reward me with a bird, or at the very least give me a chance to perhaps see one. I mean.... they're both quail, right? How much different could they actually be?" From Mythical Beast.


Here are a few posts that should be revisited:

Some time ago I found the following post by Orion board member Tammy Sapp, on her exceptional blog, The Outdoor Scene. In Understanding Issues: It's Complicated, Ms Sapp discusses the North American Wildlife Conservation Model, its impact, and the guidelines that have made it a success in managing wildlife for all. "The model’s two basic principles—that fish and wildlife belong to everyone and are to be managed so their populations will be sustained forever—are explained through a set of guidelines known as the “Seven Sisters for Conservation.” I strongly recommend that you take a moment and read the post, it is short, and again, elucidating!

My Favorite Marlin brings us a great, short essay: Bush Living by Sharron Chatterton. Eloquent, direct, and full of insight, it is a must read this Saturday morning.

This is a great post that fits right in with some of this week's conversation:  The Thinking Hunter comments on the level of competition that has now permeated the hunting ethos. He makes many salient points, many of which I agree with. Some of our top blogging luminaries have weighed in with their opinions, and I should hope each and every one of us will take a moment to read not only the post, Competitive Hunting--BARF! but the comments as well!


Myself, on the off hand you missed it, I posted Reasons to take a Whitetail Doe, where I discuss some very good reasons to fill that doe tag. And you might want to take a look at this old post High Fence Hunting: What are the Facts? That one was a pretty good one, with lots of comments!

Best Regards,
Albert A Rasch™
Member: Shindand Tent Club
Member: Hunting Sportsmen of the United States HSUS (Let 'em sue me.)
The Hunt Continues...

Though he spends most of his time writing and keeping the world safe for democracy, Albert was actually a student of biology. Really. But after a stint as a lab tech performing repetitious and mind-numbing processes that a trained capuchin monkey could do better, he never returned to the field. Rather he became a bartender. As he once said, "Hell, I was feeding mice all sorts of concoctions. At the club I did the same thing; except I got paid a lot better, and the rats where bigger." He has followed the science of QDM for many years, and fancies himself an aficionado. If you have any questions, or just want to get more information, reach him via TheRaschOutdoorChronicles(at)MSN(dot)com.

Scott Croner Albert A Rasch Albert “Afghanus” Rasch Albert A Rasch Scott Croner Nebraska Hunting Scott Croner, Merriam's Turkey Hunting Albert A Rasch Scott Croner Albert A Rasch Albert “Afghanus” Rasch Albert A Rasch Scott Croner Nebraska Hunting Scott Croner Merriam's Turkey Hunting Albert A RaschAlbert A Rasch So, you want to be a contractor. Handfeeding a Baby Mockingbird Clean and Repair your Ruger 10 22 Magazine

Saturday Blog Rodeo 11/13/10

© 2010 Albert A Rasch™ and
The Rasch Outdoor Chronicles
$g&m f9bd 45kd q!?5.

Saturday Blog Rodeo 10/13/10

Holy Fatwah Batman, I'm still in Afghanistan! Another couple or three weeks have come and gone and I am still here in Afghanistan, the Talibanannas still haven't zeroed in on me, and as of yet I haven't been maimed, injured or killed! And that's not from lack of trying on my part! If people actually knew that this silly little war we are fighting will likely never be won, and that the Talibanannas will be back, they would vote for Al Gore and be done with it!

Anyway, once again I bring to you the Blogs, posts, and commentaries that I found most entertaining and informative! And believe it or not, none of it has anything to do with lackluster leadership, the Tea Party, or Nancy Pelosi's new broom.

So let's get on with it now shall we?

Out of Alaska, the great Hodgeman speaks on the proper care of the game we take one it is down. In Hit the Ground Hodgeman spells out the steps to take to ensure you bring your meat home clean and unspoiled. "Nothing is more difficult and fraught with potential disaster for meat care like attempting to field dress a bigger critter with a drum taught distended gut. So while your buddy puts away the camera, don your gloves and get out the gut hook before its really unpleasant. A lot of folks attempt to put off this step because it really is unpleasant but waiting will not make it more so and the "field dressing fairy" is away on other business." It's a definate read for not only the first timer, but all of us!

Love can be bitter sweet. Our well spoken and erudite huntress Hunt Like You're Hungry, has entered a post in the Outdoor Bloger Network contest. The story, like some dark chocolates, is bittersweet, and allows us an enjoyable, thoughtful moment into the young woman's life. My Thanksgiving Deer, would make a wonderful addition to a hunting journal anthology. Give her whole blog a read and let her know you've stopped by!

My neighbor Ian, never fails to entertain or educate! I just recently bumped into his blog, and I am for sure, driven to emphatically sing his praises. His blog, The Wild Life, covers his nationwide search for drama and adventure, though I'm pretty sure he isn't really hunting those two things. I guess he's sorta like me in that respect. Anyway check this out: "I am terrified of flying. Palm-sweating, convinced I will die at any second terror. For years, I have rambled about this ad nauseum to anyone who’ll listen. Always have been scared. Never had a bad experience, minus the one time my parents had to literally peel my fingernails off a jetway ramp at Tampa International when I was 8 to load me on an Ohio-bound aircraft." And it only gets better from there. I have to get with Ian and fly one of these days, maybe a C130 on a hot landing into a hostile LZ! Check out his Fear of Flying and more Montana Pictures.


Well my friends, the war never sleeps and I am once again pressed for time. If you know of a blog that needs notice, let me know. If you have a post that you are particularly proud of, let me know too, I'll let folks know too!


Best Regards,
Albert A Rasch™
Member: Camp Dwyer Tent Club
Member: Hunting Sportsmen of the United States HSUS (Let 'em sue me.)
The Hunt Continues...

Though he spends most of his time writing and keeping the world safe for democracy, Albert was actually a student of biology. Really. But after a stint as a lab tech performing repetitious and mind-numbing processes that a trained capuchin monkey could do better, he never returned to the field. Rather he became a bartender. As he once said, "Hell, I was feeding mice all sorts of concoctions. At the club I did the same thing; except I got paid a lot better, and the rats where bigger." He has followed the science of QDM for many years, and fancies himself an aficionado. If you have any questions, or just want to get more information, reach him via TheRaschOutdoorChronicles(at)MSN(dot)com.

Scott Croner Albert A Rasch Albert “Afghanus” Rasch Albert A Rasch Scott Croner Nebraska Hunting Scott Croner, Merriam's Turkey Hunting Albert A Rasch Scott Croner Albert A Rasch Albert “Afghanus” Rasch Albert A Rasch Scott Croner Nebraska Hunting Scott Croner Merriam's Turkey Hunting Albert A RaschAlbert A Rasch So, you want to be a contractor. Handfeeding a Baby Mockingbird Clean and Repair your Ruger 10 22 Magazine

Blogs of Note: Hunt Like You're Hungry!

© 2010 Albert A Rasch™ and
The Rasch Outdoor Chronicles
$g&m f9bd 45kd q!?5.

Hunt Like You're Hungry

I was blog hopping the other day, and I bumped into Hunt Like You're Hungry. I'll tell you what, I like a catchy blog name, and this one pulled me in like a Mako shark to a cute, fuzzy, but oh so tasty baby Harp seal.

I loved the story telling, so I left HLYH a comment and mentioned I would highlight her blog on the Rodeo. But as y'all have already surmised, two blogs in on the rodeo, and I got pulled away to places unknown! Contracting, it's not just a job, it's an adventure...

So here I am making up for lost time!

Image Credit: HLYH

Lisa, the author and editor of Hunt Like You're Hungry, writes well, is an accomplished bowhunter, and has just one wish in life:

"I wish camo could replace all other fashionable clothing so people would stop looking at me funny."

I'm all in agreement with that, though I wonder what Armani could do with MultiCam? Anyway, knowing ladies I could just hear the comments,"Is he wearing Digital? That is so 2008..."

Anyway, after going through the archives, I was surprised that she has only just recently started blogging. But if the following is an indication of where Lisa will go, then I'm going to!

"The ham and cheese biscuit was heavenly. As I took my first bite sitting on the John Deere gator, I felt angel wings flutter on my face and the taste of edible gold on my tongue. All of that ended swiftly when E4 suggest I taste his fatback biscuit. It tasted how bad breath would taste if you could solidify and fry it. A southern delicacy that is lost on this Yankee, fatback is a sodium infused hardly edible patty of pig fat that I will never have to eat ever again."

I'm looking forward to making HLYH a regular part of my daily reading list. She's funny, well spoken, and good lookin' to boot! Doesn't hurt that she's smart and hunts too. And she has some awful cute dogs, and a outdoorsman significant other that she allowed to use her new TC BP rifle so that his buddy could try it out. Suffice it to say that I don't think he's gonna get to do that any time soon anymore... (See Fatback, empty power lines, and biscuits.)

I am sure that you will find Hunt Like You're Hungry as entertaining and informative as I have. Please visit, and let her know what you think.


But seriously, fatback not only tastes good, it's good for you!


Best Regards,
Albert A Rasch™
Member: Leatherneck Tent Club
Member: Hunting Sportsmen of the United States HSUS (Let 'em sue me.)
The Hunt Continues...

Though he spends most of his time writing and keeping the world safe for democracy, Albert was actually a student of biology. Really. But after a stint as a lab tech performing repetitious and mind-numbing processes that a trained capuchin monkey could do better, he never returned to the field. Rather he became a bartender. As he once said, "Hell, I was feeding mice all sorts of concoctions. At the club I did the same thing; except I got paid a lot better, and the rats where bigger." He has followed the science of QDM for many years, and fancies himself an aficionado. If you have any questions, or just want to get more information, reach him via TheRaschOutdoorChronicles(at)MSN(dot)com.

Scott Croner Albert A Rasch Albert “Afghanus” Rasch Albert A Rasch Scott Croner Nebraska Hunting Scott Croner, Merriam's Turkey Hunting Albert A Rasch Scott Croner Albert A Rasch Albert “Afghanus” Rasch Albert A Rasch Scott Croner Nebraska Hunting Scott Croner Merriam's Turkey Hunting Albert A RaschAlbert A Rasch So, you want to be a contractor. Handfeeding a Baby Mockingbird Clean and Repair your Ruger 10 22 Magazine