EDC Today by edctoday

EDC Today A Keep It Local Publication

Fantastic Folder Showdown

McSally vs Sinema

Keep an Eye Out

16 EDC Directory

18 Fall 2018

EDC Today Magazine

Fantastic Folder Showdown

Keeping an Eye Out

Ravencrest Defender vs SOCP

McSally vs Sinema

Counter Kidnap

EDC Today Magazine A Keep it Local Publication Fall 2018 Issue ÂŠ 2018. Keep it Local, LLC. All Rights Reserved. All our reviews are honest and are not paid endorsements. We welcome manufactuers and makers to submit their product(s) for review. We also accept guest author submissions. We reserve the right to edit submitted material for content and length. Our directory is open to all companies that serve the EDC community worldwide. We reserve the right to exclude or remove business listings at our own discretion. We reserve the right to utilize content provided to us, products provided to us, or business information submitted to our EDC Directory in advertising material. This includes, but is in no way limited to our Press Kits, online media and/or print media. Special thanks to our guest authors Dwayne Holt and John Sando.

www.NichollKnives.com www.NichollKnives.com

@nichollknives @nichollknives

Fantastic Folder Showdown Bryd Meadowlark 2 Overall Length 6.812” (173mm) Closed Length 4.031” (102mm) Blade Length 2.875” (73mm) Bryd is Spyderco’s budget line of knives. The knives are contracted out to a Chinese knife manufacturer. Many claim that Sanrenmu is the primary knife manufacturer for Spyderco, but Ganzo may also be their manufacturer.

Edge Length 2.375” (61mm)

The Meadowlark 2 is a copy of Spyderco Delica 4 with a few tweaks and the addition of pronounced choil jimping. The spine also has jimping to assist with precision control during tasks like feather sticking.

Weight 2.4.oz (67g)

It features a full-flat grind which is an option on some Delica 4 models. The Fiberglass-reinforced Nylon (FRN) handle has a bi-directional texture for increased control and grip. Like the Delica 4 it has a four-position clip that supports all possible carry positions. The 8Cr13MoV is made by Ahonest Cangjiang in China. It is a good budget steel and is used primarily by Spyderco, Kershaw and SOG.

Handle FRN Steel 8Cr13MoV

Lock Type Back Lock Tip Carry Position Tip-Up/Down Rating 1 being the best and 5 being the worst Edge Retention

Best corrosion Resistance One-handed operation Handle purchase Feel in the Hand (Comfort) Ease of operation Fit and Finish Weight

3 3 2 2 3 2 2 2

Our service is traditional with some modern elements. Singing hymns, spiritual songs and even Psalms (the forgotten songs of the Bible). We take communion weekly and teach verse-by-verse. Teaching through an entire book at a time (generally alternating between Old Testament and New Testament). We have a weekly prayer meeting and read the Scriptures together every service. We believe this model to be the most consistent with Scripture. 18911 E San Tan Blvd Suite #121 Queen Creek, AZ 85142

Fantastic Folder Showdown Bryd Meadowlark 2 Overall Length 6.812\” (173mm) Closed Length 4.031” (102mm) Blade Length 2.875” (73mm) The Meadowlark 2 in stainless steel features the same razorsharp 8Cr13mov blade.

Edge Length 2.375” (61mm) Handle Stainless Steel

We chose the combo blade for this EDC blade to give us the best range of cutting tasks.

Steel 8Cr13MoV

Unlike the FRN model with its exceptional grippiness, this model’s stainless steel handle is very slippery in sweaty hands or in the rain. The stainless steel handle, though highly resistant to chipping, does show scratches fairly easily. At $25 it is still a fairly good price, to not worry about damaging. Like its FRN sibling it features a full-flat grind, and the same “Byrd Hole”, a modification of the “Spyder Hole”. It is a full ounce heavier than any other knife in this challenge. And nearly two ounces heavier than the Coast LX237. Like the owlark 2 position possible

Delica 4 and the Meadin FRN it has a fourclip that supports all carry positions.

Weight 3.6 oz (102g) Lock Type Back Lock Tip Carry Position Tip-Up/Down Rating 1 being the best and 5 being the worst Edge Retention

Best corrosion Resistance One-handed Closing Handle purchase Feel in the Hand (Comfort) Ease of operation Fit and Finish Weight

3 3 2 2 4 2 2 4

Fantastic Folder Showdown Coast LX237 Overall Length 6.25” (159mm) Closed Length 3.6” (91mm) Blade Length 2.7” (69mm) Coast Products is a company out of Portland, Oregon. Coast was established in 1919 by Henry Brands. Their first product was a specalized fillet knife featured a scoop on the back of the blade that made it possible to slice, fillet, and clean a salmon with just one tool. The LX237 carries on a tradition of excellence. It is super light, but locks up tight. It’s action is smooth as butter. And it features a lifetime warranty. That is pretty amazing for a $13 product. The FRN handle has a grippy diamond pattern that gives solid purchase on the handle. Though vigorous cutting tasks will cause some discomfort. The knife features stout spine jimping, and jimping on the liner lock. Due to the slimmed down choil, the LX237 has the same edge length as the Meadowlark and F759M. The steel is 3Cr13, and is most closely related to 420J2. It is an entry-level stainless steel, and though it is softer than 440C it has amazing stainless properties.

Edge Length 2.375” (61mm) Handle FRN Steel 3Cr13 Weight 1.8.oz (51g) Lock Type Liner Lock Tip Carry Position Tip-Down Rating 1 being the best and 5 being the worst Edge Retention

Best corrosion Resistance One-handed Closing Handle purchase Feel in the Hand (Comfort) Ease of operation Fit and Finish Weight

4 1 1 3 2 1 3 1

Are You Prepared?

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Fantastic Folder Showdown Ganzo F759M Overall Length 6.812” (173mm) Closed Length 4.031” (102mm) Blade Length 2.875” (73mm) Ganzo is a Chinese knife company. There is some disagreement in the EDC community behind the ethics of clone and homage knives, which Ganzo is famous for producing. Issue 2 will cover this topic in more detail. The point of this article is to simply compare the knives. The F759M is identical in specs to the Meadowlark 2. With one exception. The “Bryd Hole” is replaced with an oval hole. The handle pattern is also slightly different. The F759M patterns is smooth squares, while the FRN Meadowloark 2 has pronounced angled scales. The Meadowlark 2 is much more grippy. The F759M also has a gritty feeling when opening direct from the factory. This is easily remedied with disassembly and cleaning and oiling the bushings. In every other way the knife appears identical to the Meadowlark 2. Including the same cutout pattern of the stainless steel liners. Except the F759M has 440C steel.

Edge Length 2.375” (61mm) Handle FRN Steel 440C Weight 2.4.oz (67g) Lock Type Back Lock Tip Carry Position Tip-Up/Down Rating 1 being the best and 5 being the worst Edge Retention

Best corrosion Resistance One-handed operation Handle purchase Feel in the Hand (Comfort) Ease of operation Fit and Finish Weight

2 2 2 2 3 2 4 2

Fantastic Folder Showdown Spyderco Delica 4 Overall Length 7.125” (181mm) Closed Length 4.25” (108mm) Blade Length 2.875” (73mm) The Delica 4 is one of the most well EDC knives.

Edge Length 2.563” (65mm)

The Delica 4 is offered in a full-flat grind, however the knife chosen for this review has a non-reflective VG-10 blade that is coated with black titanium carbonitride and is flat saber-ground. A combination edge was chosen for practical EDC purposes.

Handle FRN Steel VG-10 Weight 2.5oz (71g) Lock Type Back Lock

The Delica 4 and the Meadowlark 2 have the same Phosphor bronze washers, providing butter smooth operation. The 4.25” handle is perfect ergonomically speaking. It fills the hand well, and provides the best comfort of all the knives reviewed. That comfort, however comes at a hefty price tag. This knife as tested is $85. The plain flat grind is around $65. The Meadowlark 2, also made by Spyderco, is around $20. So is the Delica 4 worth four times as much as the Meadowlark. Well as I learned in the Army, it depends.

Tip Carry Position Tip-Up/Down Rating 1 being the best and 5 being the worst Edge Retention

Best corrosion Resistance One-handed operation Handle purchase Feel in the Hand (Comfort) Ease of operation Fit and Finish Weight

1 3 2 1 1 2 1 3

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Dollar Store Prepper List • Kitchen Matches • Pack of Lighters • Batteries • Heirloom Seeds • Alcohol Cooking Gel • Bottled Water • Bandana • Band Aids • Rain Poncho • Toys and Activities • Cotton Balls • Flashlights • Work Gloves • Nuts and Trail Mix • Ramen • Coffee Filters • Kitchen Knives • Folding Knife • Can Opener • Tin Foil • Plastic Containers • Ziploc Bags • Trash Bags • Canned Food • Tampons • Oral Numbing Gel • Glow Sticks • Reading Glasses • Crayon • Gauze • Hydrocortisone Cream • Pencil Sharpener • Screwdrivers • Tweezers

• Bleach • Magnifying Glass • Scrubs • Socks • Baby Wipes • OTC Meds • Wine • Hydrogen Peroxide • Isopropyl Alcohol • First Aid Supplies • Mouse Trap • Steel Wool Pads • Steel Wire • Twine • Multi-Purpose Rope • Bungee Cord • Pepper Spray • Straws • Shammy Pad • Compass • Space Blanket • Candles • Insect Repellant • Mesh Laundry Basket • Toothbrushes • Hand Sanitizer • Toilet Paper (Emergency) • Sports Tape • Triple Antibiotic Ointment • N95 Face Mask • Carabiners • Razor • Travel Sewing Kit • Scissors

• Puzzle Book • Coloring Book • Bible • Kleenex • Dental Floss • Hair Ties • Manicure Set • Chapstick • Safety Pins • Rubber Bands • Combs • Deck of Cards • Notebook • Pens and Pencils • Hats • Scarves • Plates and Cups • Anti-bacterial Towelettes • Baking Soda • Boxed Food • Cable Ties • Car Towels • Clothesline and Pins • Condiments • Compact Mirror • Cutting Board • Duct Tape • Epsom Salt • Funnel • Ear Plugs • Ice and Heat Packs • Lotions • Petroleum Jelly • Spices

D C

$5.00 Limit Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve only got $5 and need some EDC essentials to get through the day or the week. But where do you turn? Amazingly your local dollar store could have your answer. For less than $5 I was able to get everything pictured to below.

The Knife It has crap steel. The knife is dull is and only has an edge on the presentation side of the blade. The blade edge is also 90% serrated. The handles are made of plastic, and is surprisingly comfortable in the hand. This is the definition of a throw away knife. It cost $1.00 and if I needed a throw away knife and had nothing else Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d sharpen and carry it.

The Flashlight I was able to buy two different LCD flashlights each one cost $1.00. The Sunbeam Travel-size is the better of the two. It has a brighter lumen level, and has an aluminium body. The Plastic Tactical Flashlight has an adjustable beam, but it is difficult to adjust. The Sunbeam Travel-size is a fantastic light and well worth the $1.00 price tag. It is roughly 200 lumens. Not only is it bright but it is also an excellent size for EDC.

Paracord Bracelet I chose this as it supplied 7 feet of paracord for only $1.00. There are typically other colors, but there was only breast cancer awareness ones when I went. Sometimes you can also purchase 25 feet of paracord for $1.00.

Handkerchief I chose to pick up Multi-purpose cleaning clothes for this as they are more absorbent than regular cotton and there are two.

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Keeping An Eye Out!

Dwayne Holt Owner of Due Guard Security

What if I were to ask you what the definition of “Situational Awareness”. Would you be able to tell me, your family or neighbor? Most people would say “it’s the area surrounding

I listen? Not a chance. How am I able to do this you may ask? Believe it or not, I have reported and/or responded to nine (9) bomb threats or large explosion situations in the last

my current position or place.”

eleven (11) years here in Arizona. I have been

Here is the internet’s very short definition.

me and look forward if an emergency were to

“Situational Awareness is the ability to identify, process, and comprehend information about how to survive in an emergency situation. More simply, it’s knowing what is going

trained to watch people and obstacles around occur. Have you ever seen someone in a grocery store or in an airport and they have that look of confusion or appear to have that lost look upon their face? Guess what, this was

aware of her surroundings after that event. I hear time after time it always takes an event to make someone aware or wake them up. I continuously hear that old phrase, it will never happen to me. It can, and it will. My company Due Guard Security takes training to the next level. We put you in a securitylife threatening situation and we make you find your own way out. We can show you how to scan, respond, escape, report and so much

on around you.”

your first lesson on situational awareness.

more. I recently instructed a short version of

What if I told you that there is more to it than

A few years ago, one of our neighbor’s

and one of the students who at the time I had

that. Knowing your current location is great but about your evacuation points at your work or store, the unattended vehicle in front of the store without a license plate and the engine on, someone wearing a trench coat or duster in the summer time, that package you received at work with a hand-written shipping label? Has your radar turned on yet? It should have. When I walk through a store with my wife, she continuously tells me to shut off my radar. Just like every typical husband, do you think

daughter was grabbed by a stranger wearing a hoodie directly in front of her home as she was walking to the bus stop. Lucky for her she got away. I asked my wife, if she had noticed our neighbor’s daughter being grabbed from behind and dragged away, what would

our Active Shooter - Are You Prepared Course no idea he was a former Seal Team Six member from way back when. He told me after class he was very impressed, and our message needs to get out. So the questions is, are you prepared?

she do?

Dwayne Hoyt

She told me, and I quote “I’d run that sucker

Due Guard Security LLC.

down and run him over”! My wife’s brain isn’t trained to take another human life or let alone run someone over, but she is more

Owner/Security Director https://dueguardsecurity.com/

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Fieldline Tactical Surge Hydration Backpack

EDC Bag

The Fieldline Tactical Surge Hydration Backpack is a tactical bag that fits well as an EDC Bag in Permissive Environments or areas where having a tactical bag wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t draw attention. This is best used in rural settings, such as when hiking. Next issue will focus on an EDC bag for the urban environment. The Surge has a 22.2-liter capacity and has a large padded main compartment. Inside the main compartment is a small pocket which will hold a map of the local area. The main compartment also has a mesh area suitable for storing a subcompact handgun or revolver. There is a secondary compartment with three internal pockets and a room for a small fire kit. There is also two outer compartments that will fit a ton of EDC products. The outside of the pack has MOLLE (Modular Lightweight Load-carrying Equipment) webbing allows for the attachment of accessories. There are four strips of Velcro for attaching name tags or morale patches. There is an integrated 2-liter hydration reservoir, for keeping water close in hostile environments. The Surge equally displaces weight across the shoulders, back and waist. Even fully filled with water the pack is comfortable to wear. The Surge is backed by a manufacturerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s lifetime warranty against defects in materials and workmanship (applies when product has been used for the purpose intended and under normal conditions).

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Guest Authors Needed Are you a subject-matter expert in EDC, firearms, edged weapons or survival? We are looking for you.

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Clones and Counterfeit, clones and homages oh my. The Everyday Carry (EDC) community, and especially the subset Knife Community has to examine the complex topic of clones and counterfeits. Knives are a blade and some type of handle. Since there isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t much to a knife, many knives will have similar design choices. Add to that there are only so many ways that a blade can be shaped and the types of designs get smaller. Handles

are even more difficult, as there are even fewer handle shapes. There are three main categories when it comes to knives that are not an original design. The first category is a counterfeit. A counterfeit is an exact copy of a knife which includes branding. It is designed to trick people into thinking the knife they are buying is authentic. Sometimes, the fake knife comes with paperwork. Most counter-

feit knives come from China. Many of those knives come with low grade stainless steel that is incorrectly marked on the blade. Some counterfeits are high quality fakes and they use a better grade steel and can be nearly indistinguishable from the real knife. Sites like Alibaba (Aliexpress) and DH Gate are popular places to purchase such knives. However, eBay and Amazon do have the occasional counterfeit. It is generally ac-

cepted that the selling of counterfeits is morally wrong, because the purpose of the manufacturing of the counterfeit is to deceive the buyer. There is also the fact that the counterfeiter is wrongfully using the other knife companies branding and designs. Before addressing the second category a point should be made. Patent and copyright laws arenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t international in nature. Since most counterfeit knives come

Pictured is the Bryd Meadowlark and Ontario Rat 1 Assisted Opening and their perspective Ganzo clones.

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Counterfeits from China, it should be noted that US laws relating to design and branding of knives aren’t applicable in China. Therefore, making a counterfeit Spyderco isn’t illegal to do in China. The issue to purchase a knife that is a copy or similar to another knife is a moral choice. And man is a creature governed by their own conscience. It isn’t right or proper for me to attempt to enforce my morality on you. Just as it is wrong for you to attempt to the same to me. The second category is a clone. Clones can be the exact dimension or have the same blade to handle proportion of the knife that it is based on. Clones differ from counterfeits in that they have their own branding. Popular clone brands are Sanrenmu, Cima, Ganzo, Kubey, Enlan and Eafengrow. These knives are easily purchased at GearBest, Amazon or Ebay. The purchase of a clone is morally ambiguous. Some in the community

are wholly against such purchases, because they feel that the manufacturer has stolen the design or elements of the authentic knives. Other in the community feel that because the manufacturer isn’t utilizing branding or because the clone doesn’t have exactly the same design elements as the original knife. Examples of designs that are copied is the Sanrenmu 910 Land which is nearly identical to the Chris Reeves Sebenza 21 or the Ganzo F759 which is very close in design to the Bryd Meadowlark 2. Examples of design elements that have been copied are: the Benchmade axis lock, the Spyderco Spyder Hole or the Spyderco compression lock. One area of contention is the Benchmade axis lock. In reality the axis lock was actually only licensed to Benchmade. The original patent owners were William J. McHenry and Jason L. Williams. Their patent (US5737841A) was granted in 1998 and was transferred to the Men-

tor Group LLC. This patent covered the deployment and retraction of manual and automatic folders with an axis lock system and expired in April 2018. Therefore, any manual or automatic knives utilizing the axis lock are able to be made without patent infringement. The third category is homage knives. These knives incorporate elements from different knives in an attempt to make a knife that has the best of both worlds. An example of this is the Dave Larsen Custom Model 1-5 Homage Fighting Knife which is a borrows blade shape and the guard from the Randall Model 1, but takes a new twist on handle ergonomics and materials. In many cases, these knife makers have the blessing of the original designer. As you can see the topic of counterfeits, clones and homage knives isn‘t black and white. It is up to each member of the community to be guided by his or her own

conscience and to make choices that are morally correct for themselves. That said we should always strive to buy authentic knives, and never settle for someone passing off counterfeits. However, with clones and homage knives we shouldn’t be so quick to judge a brother or sister because they like knives that are similar to another knife. If we disagree in these areas we should lovingly lead them along as a friend and encourage them to buy from brands like Benchmade, Spyderco, Microtech, etc. We should also see things from their perspective. Perhaps they would love to own a Spyderco Paramilitary 2, but have a wife and two kids to support, and all they can afford is the Ganzo G729. In conclusion, I would say the best choice is to purchase an originally designed knife from a reputable dealer. Article by: Christopher Connell

A Bible is Essential to Bug Out

The ultimate Bug Out Bag (BOB) will have high quality gear and be light and easily mobile. In survival situations that require a BOB weight is one of the most important factors for being able to bug out effectively and quickly. However, no bug out bag is complete without a copy of the bible. Weight reduction is very important, but spiritual help in a crisis is immensely important. The Scriptures are wort their additional weight. Stress Reduction Survival situations are stressful. To help determine stress levels during a bug out situation, it is helpful to look at stress levels of refugees in war torn countries. According to Refugee Health Technical Assistance Center, “refugees are frequently separated from family members, robbed, forced to inflict pain or kill, witness torture or killing, and/or lose close family members or friends and endure extremely harsh environmental conditions.” These events in themselves are traumatic, compounded with the necessity to flee an area of conflict only exasperates the stress levels. In the Journal of Clinical Medicine’s article on Mental Health Effects of Stress over the Life Span of Refugees, discovered that the stress of fleeing your home could lead to overall poor mental health (Hollifield et al). It also reported that around 10% experienced impairing diagnostic-level mental disorders such as PTSD and Major Depression. Religion as Recreation According to the California State Parks, recreational activities are instrumental in the reduction of stress. We will first look at the recreational value of religion. In his article The Recreational Value of Religion, Frederic Siedenburg gives a definition of religion. Pros: Exceptional Quality with goat skin cover and Smyth-sewn binding. This bible will last for generations. Lifetime guarantee from Crossway.

EDC TODAY

Cons: This bible is the most expensive one on the list.

ESV Heirloom Wide Margin Bible

This bible is pretty hefty at 80 ounces.

EDCTODAY.US

Pros: Built in theological commentary. Decent stitching should hold up well. Cons: Cover isn’t made to withstand the elements. And will wear quickly in Bug Out situations.

ESV Study Bible Personal Size

50 ounces (3 pounds) is still fairly substantial weight in a BOB

“Religion” comes from two Latin words, re and ligo “to rebind.” It is the conscious acknowledgment of the dependence, the intrinsic binding of the creature to the Creator; the acknowledgment of the effect to the cause; the allegiance of the human spirit to its First Cause or, if you will, its Creator God. If the law of causality has any logical force and we and the world are always acting as if it had, it must be admitted that ultimately there must be a First Cause, a Prime Mover, whom I shall call God. Religion is the practical acknowledgment of this truth. It finds its highest expression in the free acknowledgment of man, its lowest in the necessary obedience to the laws of nature in the least of creatures. Hence it has been said with truth that man can rise, “from nature up to nature’s God.” Siedenburg also makes a good point when he states: “The man who pretends to ignore religion, or even the so-called atheist, must admit that there are times, serious moments in the life of every thinking man, when he asks the all mysterious “whence” and the all important “whither.” Siedenburg continues, “Religion’s highest recreational function consists in this, that it lifts the mind and heart from the humdrum, the noise, the turmoil, the commonplaces of life, to the calm, consoling strata of another world. These recreate the body as well as the mind because they bring change, variety, and forgetfulness of the pressing present, which are the very substance of recreation.” This isn’t to say that recreation is religion’s primary function. Recreational value flows from religion. Siedenburg states: “When the children of Israel chanted their canticles they were refreshed in body as well as in spirit; when they praised Jehovah they at the same time lifted themselves into the realms of a higher world.” We can see this throughout church history when the Pilgrims made the church the center of community.

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Reading as Recreation Dr. Nancy Prince-Cohen, professor at California Polytechnic University, conducted a study when she was a K-12 educator to determine to what degree of recreation did reading provide. Her study states that there are three main purposes of recreational reading: Reading to Check Reality, Reading to Escape and Reading to Learn Specific Skills or Information. Comfort There is something immensely comforting about reading the Word of God. To meditate on the sovereignty of God in a troubling situation, has brought many saints comfort through the ages. One of the key doctrines of the bible is that God orders the entire universe. “Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? And not one of them will fall to the ground apart from your Father.” - Matthew 10:29 Teaching and Wisdom The Bible is also good for education. It speaks of a person’s obligation to God and other people. It gives moral imperatives. 2 Timothy 3:16-17:”All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work.” Means of Grace The Bible has been described as a love letter from God. Other’s describe it as a means of grace, a conduit through which grace is poured into the believer.

Pros: Waterproof Paper will withstand up to rain and other adverse weather conditions. The bible floats.

EDC TODAY

Stain resistant.

Waterproof Bible

Cons: This bible is more expensive than a standard bible. This bible is pretty light at 1.7 pounds.

EDCTODAY.US

Pros: Essential apologetic articles included to assist in evangelization of others in your group without additonal literature needed. Cons: This bible is pretty hefty at 2.4 pounds.

CSB Apologetics Bible

Being a study bible, will affect study of the Word, some people rely to heavily on commentary, while others not enough.

Pros: The book is full of American history, and has biographical sketches. There are also transcripts of famous presidental speeches. Cons: The heirloom version of this bible is the only one that comes with copies of founding documents. This bible is over 4 pounds.

The Founderâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Bible

Pros: The bible has commentary that provides both sides of theological arguments. The bible is compact and weighs only 2 pounds. Cons: The text is a little small.

ESV Reformation Bible Condensed

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A Study in Social Diorganization There is a clear link between social disorganization and delinquency. EDC is more than just having the right tools with you when you need them, but is also about understanding why crime occurs and how to spot changes in the habitus (the way in which an individual perceives the social world around them and how they react to it). Systematic Social Disorganization is a contemporary systemic social disorganization theory of neighborhood crime rates that predicts a positive relationship between economic deprivation, residential mobility, and population heterogeneity. Spotting changes takes education and training on why crime occurs. The attached charts give a basic outline on the factors that affect crime rates. Simply put socioeconomical status, the amount of racial and ethnical diversity those around you have been exposed to and the results of interactions, access to resources, stability

of home life are contributing factors for determining if a person will be likely to commit a crime. Training to recognize threats by knowing and understanding the likelihood of crime in the area you are in. Train to look for key indicators of crime. Are there a lot of for sale signs? Is there a lot of physical property damage? Do homeless people congregate in the local park? Is there unusual activity around you? Do people loiter around the convenience store or store fronts? Are store fronts clean and orderly? If it is an area that you often find yourself in. It is imperative that you study crime data, an excellent resource is the app Trulia (it is meant to help you find a home for sale), it but the Local Info section tells some important information. The app keeps track of crime, price trends for home sales, and people stats.

Solicitation of external resources

Residential stability

Primary relational networks

Socioeconomic composition

Racial/ethnic heterogeneity

Exercise of public control Exercise of private control

Effective socialization

Secondary relational networks

Systemic Social Disorganization

Crime rate

Exercise of parochial control

edctoday. Shaw & McKay’s Social Disorganization theory

Physical deterioration Population turnover

Heterogeneity

Social disorganization

Economic deprivation Delinquency

What’s unclear is how social disorganization leads to delinquency 21

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Best Kershaw Drop Point Knives Under $30 1

Name: Zing

Name: RJ Tactical 3.0

Name: Volt II

Name: Cryo II

Blade Steel: 8Cr13MoV

Blade length: 3 Inch

Blade length: 3.2 Inch

Blade length: 3.25 Inch

Blade Type: Modified Drop Point

Blade Type: Drop Point

Blade Type: Modified Drop Point

Blade Type: Drop Point

Flipper

Speedsafe Assisted Opening

410 Stainless Steel Handle

Glass Filled Nylon Handle

Framelock

Liner Lock

3-Position Pocletclip

Reversable Pocletclip

Flipper Speedsafe Assisted Opening 410 Stainless Steel Handle Framelock 4-Position Deep Carry Pocketclip

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RCT Defender Great Alternative to SOCP RCT Defender Spike

Benchmade SOCP

440C

Steel

440C

4.0”

Blade Length

3.22”

.25”

Blade Thickness

.175”

Spearpoint

Blade Shape

Spearpoint

9.0”

Overall Length

7.25”

5.0”

Handle Length

4.03”

3.1 oz

Knife Weight

2.04 oz

1.6 oz

Sheath Weight

1.04 oz

4.7 oz

Total Weight

3.08 oz

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I have been thoroughly impressed by the Ravencrest Tactical (RCT) Defender Spike. The Defender has the same steel as the Benchmade SOCP. Mine came razor sharp out of the box. My SOCP has dull edges, though it is understood that the SOCP is meant for stabbing. The Defender is 1.75â&#x20AC;? longer, giving the knife slightly more reach than the SOCP. Stabbing tests with the Defender are extraordinary, with a thicker and longer blade it outperforms the SOCP in reach, but not in draw speed. This extra stabbing power does come with a slightly less ergonomical feel. The SOCP is slightly larger than your hand so it feels like you are holding a pocket knife. The Defender extends about 5 inches out of my hand. The SOCP also feels feather light and feels more finished. Though both knives are mainly intended to stab an opponent in close quarters, they both flip extremely well. The Defender slightly outperforms the SOCP when doing tricks or for long-reach offensive moves. Flipping the Defender out into the Extended Grip, affords nearly 2 inches more of reach which could be the difference between hitting your target or swinging in midair. The SOCP has jimping half way up the handle which affords other offensive grips. The clip has a much greater retention than the pocket clip on the SOCP. The best placement for the Defender is to affix the kydex sheath to your belt. It secures the knife quite well, and it is easy to forget it is there. Wearing a slightly baggy shirt prevents any printing. Speaking of sheaths, I prefer the kydex sheath over the injection molded plastic one that is included with the SOCP. But I do have the Gen 2 SOCP with the modified clip, so it secures in the pocket well without the need to perform the Nite-Ize eClipse replacement.

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Martha McSally

Kyrsten Sinema

Martha McSally

Conceal Carry and Gun Control • Co-Sponsor on the Concealed Carry Reciprocity Act of 2017 • Voted Yay on the Veterans 2nd Amendment Protection Act • Voted Yay Sportsmen’s Heritage and Recreational Enhancement (SHARE) Act of 2015

• McSally opposes the F2A survey question on gun restrictions Faith2Action.org is “the nation’s largest network of pro-family groups.” They provide election resources for each state, including Voter Guides and Congressional Scorecards excerpted here. The F2A survey summarizes candidate stances on the following topic: ‘Guns: Do you support restrictions on the purchase and possession of guns?’ (Source: On The Issues). • McSally opposes the PVS survey question on gun restrictions Project VoteSmart infers summary responses from campaign statements and news reports The PVS survey summarizes candidate stances on the following topic: ‘Guns: Do you support restrictions on the purchase and possession of guns?’ (Source: On The Issues). • Endorsed by National Border Patrol Council

Ratings Martha McSally National Rifle Association Candidate Positions on Gun Rights

93%

EDC TODAY

Gun Owners of America Positions

90%

John Birch Society - Freedom Index

60%

Kyrsten Sinema National Rifle Association Candidate Positions on Gun Rights

29%

Gun Owners of America Positions

10%

John Birch Society - Freedom Index

29%

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Kyrsten Sinema

Conceal Carry and Gun Control • Voted Nay on the Concealed Carry Reciprocity Act of 2017 • Voted Yay on the Veterans 2nd Amendment Protection Act

• Voted Nay on Prohibiting District of Columbia from Implementing Certain Firearm Laws • Abstained on SB 1647 - Concealed Weapons on College Campuses • Voted Nay Sportsmen’s Heritage and Recreational Enhancement (SHARE) Act of 2015 • Voted Nay on SB 1201 - Firearms Omnibus • Voted Nay on HB 2389 - Involving Gun Owners’ Rights • Voted Nay on HB 2307 - Federal Arms Regulation Exemption • Voted Yay on HB 2788 - Relaxing Concealed Weapon Restrictions • Voted Nay on HB 2629 - Legalizing the Defensive Display of a Firearm • Voted Nay HB 2074 - Concealed Weapons; Training Requirement • Voted Nay on SB 1425 - Prohibition of Confiscation of Firearms During an Emergency • Voted Nay on HB 2307 - Federal Arms Regulation Exemption • Speaking on a 2010 bill signed into law that legalized carrying a firearem without a permit, Sinema said the bill deprives law enforcement of a tool “to separate good guys from the bad guys.” With a permit requirement, police encountering a person with a concealed gun but no permit had reason to suspect that person was not a law-abiding citizen. • Maintain and strengthen the enforcement of existing state restrictions on the purchase and possession of guns. (Source: On the Issues) • Require background checks on gun sales between private citizens at gun shows. (Source: On the Issues) • Require a license for gun possession. (Source: On the Issues)

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Light Up Your World

Compact and powerful. Are two words that describe the J5 Tactical V1-Pro. This is an amazingly bright 300 lumen flashlight. Though 300 lumens isn’t “All the lumens” as some people jokingly say. This little guy is the perfect EDC flashlight. Its aircraft aluminum alloy body feels solid in the hand. It is also designed really well. It just fits the hand. J5 refers to their bezel as having an “attack head design.” That is an interesting way to describe their striking bezel. It is a crenellated strike bezel and will do some serious damage should you find yourself having to defend yourself. Utilizing this flashlight in self-defense wouldn’t require any additional skills, Kubaton techniques would suffice. There are three modes that can be quickly cycled through. The low setting is bright enough to blind an opponent, especially if the beam is in focused mode and aimed at their face and eyes. The strobe effect is disorienting and excellent for the added seconds needed to grab your knife/dagger or firearm. There are similar flashlights on the market. One being the Surefire E1B-MV Backup Flashlight. The E1B will set you back $125. This bad boy, V1-Pro, is a steal at $15. The only complaint is the pocket clip is stiff. It holds secure, but for tactical situations it holds to well. It is recommended that if you are going to use this flashlight for tactical or duty situations that you invest in a holster. The V1 Pro runs off a single 1.5V AA battery or a 3.7V 14500 battery. To get the most lumen output a 14500 battery is required.

Modes: High, Low, and Strobe Lumens: 300 LM Max Dual Beam: Flood and Intense Focus Waterproof: IPX4 (Or Weather Resistance. The flashlight can withstand the worst weather conditions (high humidity, snow, rain, brief immersion) Material: Aircraft grade aluminum alloy Size: 3.7” x 1.02 x 1.02” Weight: 3.2 oz

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Book Review: Counter Kidnap & Hostage Survival Handbook

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Due to the nature of the material. Specifics canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be discussed in this review. The Counter Kidnap and Hostage Survival Handbook is an excellent little book on how to avoid becoming a hostage or in the event that you are kidnapped it will help you deal with the psychological aspects of captivity and to help you plan an escape. Avoiding Capture The first 26 pages cover tips and hints to make you a hard target (e.g. difficult to kidnap). It covers how kidnappers choose targets, counter-surveillance tips, and how to prep your home, vehicle and family members to avoid capture. It also provides practical tips when traveling as well. Hostage & Escape The next 30 pages cover the dreadful scenario of becoming a hostage. This section outlines the stages of adaption to captivity and how to psychologically evaluate your captors. It also lays out mental preparation before becoming a hostage. Reintegration The last section deals dealing with the mental health issues that arise after captivity. This section deals with readjusting to life, and dealing with stress, PTSD and depression. For training from Advanced Training and Consultancy Services or to purchase this handbook or other products go to http://www.4tac5.com/ and http://www.oscardelta.co.uk

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Choosing SelfDefense Ammo for Concealed Carry John Sando AZ Carry, LLC Concealed carry courses always prompt the discussion about which self-defense ammo is best for daily carry. Choosing the right selfdefense ammo is just as important as choosing the gun you carry it in. If you wanted to, you could find endless research on the topic of ballistics and what makes effective self-defense ammo. Not having a ballistics lab in my backyard, I like to use data from websites such as LuckyGunner or Ammoland to make my decision. Penetration, expansion and weight retention are just a few of the things to consider when choosing your carry ammo. There are other factors to contemplate but it is best to choose ammo based on what works best for you and your environment, which we will discuss. Working as a Ballistics Range Technician taught me many things. While testing armor I learned how each cartridge and projectile were affected upon impact based on the environment and what the target was made of.

the FBI tests for an average penetration of 12’ minimum and 18” maximum. Personally I take into consideration the barrel length of my carry gun, the climate I’m in and my surroundings. I prefer ammo with an average penetration depth between 12 and 18-inches. A good category for self-defense ammo is the hollow point, which essentially expands on impact to help create the most damage and stop a potential threat as quickly as possible. When taking into account test data, I like to see a bullet that can consistently perform whether it had to go through a barrier or not. I also lean towards a bullet that expands to one and half times its original diameter. Some hollow points can get clogged with substances they have hit prior to the target such as glass or clothing and not fully expand.

The FBI uses a ballistics gelatin that simulates living tissue. Manufacturers, dealers and backyard ballistic experts use this gel along with clothing and other barriers, to test the effectiveness of their ammo.

Another important factor is whether or not a bullet will retain its weight. If your bullet needs to go through a barrier and falls apart, its effectiveness can be greatly reduced. What may have been a 147-grain hollow point could now be separated into a lead chunk and copper pieces heading in different directions. Finding a bullet that will keep its weight and hold together will help you in stopping a potential threat.

It is important to choose ammunition that will make it through a variety of barriers such as windshields or car doors. On a 16” block of gel,

Once you’ve narrowed down or chosen the bullet that you feel is going to save your life or the life of a loved one, you need to test in

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your everyday carry firearm. Making sure the ammunition is going to feed and give you the accuracy in your firearm is another important part of ensuring your gun and ammunition work together for you. Last but definitely not least is training. Choosing a pistol, ammunition and getting a CCW is just the beginning. If you have done these things youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve already made the decision that you and your familyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s lives are worth protecting. Find a competent instructor/s or company to help expand your knowledge. I have trained with several instructors and organizations over the years. One Arizona company I personally support and have trained with is Fieldcraft Survival of Prescott, AZ. They are well

experienced and are invested in teaching about firearms and survival techniques. The founders of Fieldcraft Survival use first hand experiences to teach others how to be prepared in unexpected or emergency scenarios. There are many great companies and instructors out there. I encourage you to continue training and furthering your firearm knowledge. At the end of the day your life is your responsibility.

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Song Dog Tactical Your Are Your Own Worst Enemy Show it with our Nemesis Hanks

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