From The Library
We’ve received a whole lot of new books over the last few months here at Brownells, and with all the exciting new parts, tools and supplies that we have for you, the books sometimes get lost in the shuffle. I know that one of my favorite ways to pass a lazy summer day is to sit down with a good book under a shade tree with a glass of lemonade. I have reviewed some of the new additions to the Brownells library and some we have carried for a while. Here are a few of my Summer Picks for whiling away a summer afternoon.
Black Powder & The Old West – This is a collection of articles from the writers at Shoot! Magazine that covers pretty much everything regarding old west black powder shooting. Because of the format, this is an easy and enjoyable read that can be picked up and thumbed through when you have some time. The writers really know their stuff, and they offer you useful information on firearms, both originals and replicas, ammunition, reloading, and cleaning, shooting tips, and competitive events. Especially enjoyable was the section named “History, Hunting and Tall Tales” which told the stories of how the firearms were actually used. This is a definite coffee table book for all of you interested in Black Powder & The Old West.
God, Guns, & Rock ‘N’ Roll – A gun owner’s story told only as Ted Nugent can do it. A no-holds-barred look at the views and opinions of one of the 2nd Amendment’s most outspoken advocates. Ted doesn’t leave anything to the imagination when it comes to his opinion of those who choose not to arm themselves, and those who have made it their quest to disarm law-abiding Americans. Some of Ted’s diatribes are a bit over the top, but it’s nothing short of what you would expect from the Motor City Madman. The one thing that comes across to the reader is that Ted truly believes what he says, and he is passionate about protecting the rights granted to us in the Constitution. He also writes about conservation, hunting, and how he wants to dispel the notion that hunters are not conservationists. Whether you are a fan of his music or not, if you enjoy hunting, wildlife, and the shooting sports, Ted gives you quite a bit of food for thought. This is a book you’ll pass along to your buddies when you’re done with it.
The Book Of Two Guns (#100-002-241) – Tiger McKee recorded what he learned during a ten year odyssey as a student and instructor of the use of firearms in martial arts. Uniquely presented in a hand-written format, this style gives you a feeling of personal communication unlike anything I have read before. Tiger’s “notebook” of techniques, do’s and don’ts, illustrations and quotes offers the reader an “as-it-happens” perspective on how to defend yourself using firearms. Primarily using the AR-15 rifle and the 1911 pistol, Tiger helps you understand the principles of armed defense and how to survive situations none of us want to face, but may need to know how to escape. He gives you instruction on self-defense drills that will help you stay safe, and how to react without thinking in an increasingly dangerous world. Definitely an interesting read, this book sets itself apart from other “how-to” self defense books.
The Gun Digest Book Of Exploded Gun Drawings (#491-000-014) – OK, admittedly this is not a book that tells an interesting story, but if you ever wanted to see the internal workings of just about every firearm you’ll ever run across, this is for you! Over 975 views show you every part of the firearm in an exploded diagram, with a numbered parts list accompanying each drawing. Pistols, rifles, and shotguns from Action Arms to Zoli are all here. An invaluable tool for the gunsmith, hobbyist, and collector, this is one book that truly belongs in your collection.
The Rifle Shooter (#995-000-002) – You can’t argue with his credentials. David Tubb is an 11-time National High Power Rifle Champion, has won nearly 30 open, individual national championship titles in all four rifle categories, and has also won seven Sportsmen's Team Challenge championships along with six NRA Long Range Rifle (600-1000 yd.) national championships. It’s safe to say he knows what he is talking about. In this book, David covers the mechanics, skills, and technical information he uses to prepare for and compete in shooting competitions. Each section is broken down into segments that you can apply to your own shooting, using David’s advice and experience. The information is presented in a conversational tone, as if you and David are sitting down for a chat about shooting. David doesn’t make any bold assumptions about your knowledge of competitive shooting, and he explains concepts that might not be known by the beginner. Reading this book won’t turn you into a champion overnight, but it never hurts to have a man with a resume as impressive as David’s offering you advice!
United States Rifle Model Of 1917 (#261-000-005) – I’m a fan of historical firearms, especially those that are more obscure than others. When this book came across my desk, I was intrigued since this was the primary weapon of soldiers in WW I, a war my grandfather was involved in. I hadn’t read much about this particular rifle, and this was the first book I had seen dedicated to this weapon. There are several interesting chapters that talk of the development of this rifle, and how it came about almost by accident. The book goes on to point out the dizzying number of variations of this rifle, and how to figure out if the one you are looking at is the real deal, or a heavily modified rifle that is a shadow of its former self. It helps you sort through the different manufacturers and determine the authenticity of the rifle. There are even chapters that tell you how to identify bayonets and grenade launchers associated with the rifle. This book is primarily designed for the collector, but if you are a history buff, you’ll appreciate the information presented about the important role this rifle played in the “War to end all Wars”.