My first/only/still have is a Colt "Sporter Target Model" (AR-15). It came to live here in the early 90's-----as a result of Clinton's proposed Assault Weapons ban. I'd heard the term, hadn't paid much attention; but figured if he was against them, maybe I ought to get one.
Off I go to Guncraft Sports in Knoxville-----"Tell me about these Assault Weapons." Off the rack comes this rifle----and they took me through it, from one end to the other---ending with the magazine. "This is a 20 round magazine, but it will only 5 rounds because it has a spacer in it. The spacer is held in place by this rivet right here----THIS RIVET RIGHT HERE!! UNDERSTAND?!! I understood.
I took it home, removed THIS RIVET RIGHT HERE (and the spacer), and went on about my business.
Job One was to send off for a Trijicon ACOG-----and stick it on. Then I got out my first bench rest (a folding wooden ironing board), and set up shop.
Then began the learning process: The gun shot (and still shoots) 3/8" groups at 100 yards---under certain circumstances---those being a cool barrel. Once if/when the barrel heats up, those 3/8" groups are but a fond memory.
I justified this addition to the Boss Lady thus: Wild dogs, typically traveling in packs, were our #1 pest. I was usually notified of their presence by her voice-----lowered several octaves growling two words: "Ralph, DOGS!" In Pre-Assault Weapon days, these pests were dispatched with a Ruger 77 (bolt action) in 243 Winchester. The problem, nicely solved with my new Assault Weapon, was the target's associates were long gone at the first shot----and my new toy afforded the opportunity to have several more opportunities. She bought it hook, line, and sinker!
Ralph Tremaine
All that said, there was one time when the pack didn't run at the first shot. I came across a pack of 14---swimming across the river. You've heard the term, "Shooting fish in a barrel"? That encounter was an example of same!
