Monthly Archives: July 2021

.22LR for Training?

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A .22LR handgun serves as an invaluable training aid for shooters across different skill levels due to several key attributes. Its minimal recoil makes it particularly suitable for novice shooters who may find larger calibers intimidating. This reduced recoil allows beginners to focus on mastering proper shooting techniques, such as grip, stance, and sight alignment, without the distraction or discomfort of heavy recoil. For more experienced shooters, the .22LR handgun offers an opportunity to refine marksmanship skills and maintain proficiency without the physical strain associated with larger caliber firearms.

Affordability is another significant advantage of the .22LR handgun. Ammunition costs for .22LR cartridges are generally lower compared to other calibers, making extended practice sessions more financially feasible. This affordability enables shooters to invest more time and rounds into training, enhancing their shooting skills and confidence over time. Moreover, the widespread availability of .22LR ammunition ensures shooters can easily procure supplies for their training needs, whether for casual target shooting or more structured skill development.

The accessibility of .22LR handguns and ammunition further enhances their value as training tools. .22LR firearms are widely available at sporting goods stores, gun shops, and online retailers, making them easily accessible to shooters of all backgrounds and experience levels. This accessibility, combined with the relative ease of acquiring ammunition, encourages shooters to engage in regular practice and training activities, ultimately contributing to improved marksmanship and firearm proficiency.

Additionally, .22LR handguns offer reduced noise and muzzle blast compared to larger caliber firearms, making them well-suited for indoor shooting ranges or environments where noise reduction is a consideration. The quieter shooting experience enhances shooter comfort and enjoyment, particularly for those who may be sensitive to loud noises or recoil. Despite its smaller caliber, the .22LR handgun remains an effective tool for developing fundamental shooting skills, such as trigger control, breath control, and follow-through, making it a versatile and valuable asset for shooters seeking to improve their marksmanship abilities

– English Bob

Lee Enfield .303, the first rifle I ever shot.

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The first Rifle I ever shot was while I was in the Army Cadet Force in the UK in the 1980’s, the rifle in question was a Lee Enfield .303, most likely a No. 4 Mk I .  A Lot of the ones we used were originally Canadian issued WWII surplus.

The Lee-Enfield .303 rifle, born from the merging of James Paris Lee’s bolt-action design and Enfield’s rifling system, emerged as a pivotal firearm in British military history. Initially introduced as the Lee-Metford in 1895, it boasted a ten-round box magazine loaded by charger clips, a groundbreaking feature at the time. Throughout its evolution, the Lee-Enfield proved its mettle during World War I, becoming the standard-issue rifle for British and Commonwealth troops. Its reliability, rapid action, and high magazine capacity rendered it well-suited for the trench warfare conditions of the era.

Continuing its legacy into World War II, the Lee-Enfield remained the primary rifle for British and Commonwealth forces, showcasing its durability and effectiveness in combat yet again. Its role persisted through the post-war era, as it remained in service with various military and police forces globally. Despite being gradually replaced by more modern firearms, the Lee-Enfield’s impact endured, leaving an indelible mark on popular culture through its appearances in films, literature, and historical accounts.

Produced in several variants and manufactured not only in Britain but also in countries like India, Australia, Canada, and the USA, the Lee-Enfield .303 rifle symbolized British military prowess and ingenuity. Its design influenced subsequent firearms development and played a significant role in shaping military tactics and strategies during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. As a reliable and effective infantry rifle, the Lee-Enfield stands as a testament to the endurance and adaptability of British military technology across decades of service.

– English Bob