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THE MOUNTAINGNOME - Updated Weekly

• When you enter an area that says "GUN FREE ZONE", YOU become the victim!

CHRISTMAS SYMBOLS

THE MOUNTAINGNOME IS BACK FOR YOUR ENTERTAINMENT

We started the MountainGnome back in the winter of 1999. My inspiration for starting the newsletter was a young man named Chris Pirillo who owns the website The LockerGnome. That winter brought us a lot of snow here in the foothills of the Sangre DeCristo mountains of Colorado. We proceeded to acquire many fine readers through the years, but times changed and I went to different careers that took most of my free time. I saved to disc all of those old issues from the beginning. Recently I stumbled in to the old stored directory and started opening many of the old issues. The old issues brought back so many great memories of the past and all of our wonderful readers and sponsors. So I thought, why not, I'm retired now and it would be great to bring back the website and update the site for young and old alike!
     We hope you will come back often to see more of the new content we will be adding to our site.
Black Powder & Muzzleloading articles and products!
Ammunition reloading articles!
Hunting Articles!
We will be adding interesting new products for you the reader.

And remember: please feel free to e-mail your comments and suggestions for content on the MountainGnome.

"The Constitution is not an instrument for the government to restrain the people, it is an instrument for the people to restrain the government -- lest it come to dominate our lives and interests." - Patrick Henry

The MountainGnome

Crushing Pellets - Words of Hodgdons VP
by Jonathan Koziol

In an email, I asked Hodgdon VP, Chris Hodgdon if he could take some time and tell us why it's not a good idea to crush up a pellet and use it as loose powder. Most of us already know, but this is for the new guys that may have watched the video of a guy crushing a Blue MZ pellet and then saying you can then load the full pellet on top. Why you'd go through this process is beyond me! Plenty of loose powder out there to choose from that is accurate, consistent and cleans up easy. If the smell of good ol' black powder bothers you, the hang fires that the sub black powders can create, will have you smiling as you load up with the stinky black powder.

That's a good topic with the crushing Pyrodex, Triple Seven and White Hot Pellets.

First of all we highly recommend to NOT crush Pellets.

There are two separate issues, one is crushing them intentionally and the other is accidentally crushing.

By crushing the Pellets intentionally (outside of the gun) the shooter could experience high pressure spikes (depends if the shooter is using a modern muzzleloading rifle or old rifle, cap and ball revolvers are also included). Intentional crushing causes the powder to be broken up in different sized particles thus causing inconsistent poor accuracy and possible high pressure.

By crushing Pellets by accident (inside the gun) this will most likely not cause high pressures, just terrible accuracy.

We recommend that the shooter mark their ramrod when the bullet/sabot is firmly seated on the Pellets. This way the next time the gun is loaded the shooter will know the proper length to properly seat the load (without crushing the Pellets).

For those that did NOT see the video but are reading this, Here you are. 24 minutes of covering your face and shaking your head fun.
Click Here

TO SEE MORE GREAT ARTICLES GO TO FRONTIER MUZZLELOADING.COM

And while you're there REGISTER with the folks at Frontier Muzzleloading!
NOTE: This article and many other interesting articles can also be found at the BACKWOODSMAN MAGAZINE.

Description:
SERVICES by FRONTIERMUZZLELOADING:
PRICE DOES NOT INCLUDE RETURN UPS / USPS OR INSURANCE ON SHIPPING.

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ACCURACY
Internal Lock Polishing: $45.xx. CVA/Traditions/Siler/L&R locks only. I will polish all moving/mating surfaces and lock plate for a smooth grit free feel. This speeds up lock time and makes it butter smooth.
Trigger Polishing: $20.xx. Work would include the internals of the lock, the double set triggers MUST be polished for a smooth crisp, grit free feel!
Accuracy Bedding: $60.xx. Needed just like a center fire, your wood stock muzzle loader is actually prone to the tang screw/s loosening due to the weaker wood actually pulling the metal parts up and into the wood under heavy recoil! Loose tang screws are a dead giveaway of this happening only after a few shots, killing your accuracy.
Wet Weather soaking your wood stock also is a common problem. "In order to do the job correctly you will have to send your complete muzzle loader so I can bed all parts as one for the best accuracy possible."
Coning the Muzzle: $35.xx. This procedure in present day is known as "coning”. It was known in the 19th century as a "relieved" muzzle and also as a "funneled" muzzle. Once the rifle has been “coned” it can be loaded rather easily without using the short starter.

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FINISHES
Barrel Browning: $65.xx. I use nothing but the best to brown all muzzle loader barrels. It’s a slow process which generally takes 3 to 5 days to complete properly. This included sights, tang, screws, etc. If it deals with the barrel/attachment. It is included in the price.
Browning Accessories: Contact for price! Butt plate, trigger guard, nose cap, patch box, Etc. Just let me know what all you have and I will work on a price for you.
Stock Refinish: $125.xx. Have an old beauty of a muzzle loader but the stock is looking a little beat up? No problem! All finishes are hand rubbed from the low gloss, matte to high mirror gloss, I can do it in whatever finish you want. Walnut normally does NOT get stained unless the owner wants it reddish or almost black. Good walnut normally never needs staining.
Brush the Brass: $25.xx. To rid that beautiful rifle of yours and that ugly shiny cheap looking brass, I can also provide a Brushed look to your rifles furniture that will age nicely and cut that cheap shininess out! Stop scaring game with that mirror! It’s a hunting rifle, not a beauty pageant!

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NOTE: For additional information on our services, please contact the following email address: FrontierMuzzleloading@yahoo.com

• Share your stories and opinions with us.....Submit Article

• MARIJUANA is a perfect solvent: It dissolves marriages, families and careers.

TREASURES OF READING
Folks, here are some great books to read, while relaxing in the evening........

An Arizona Christmas
1800's Western
by William W. Johnstone and J.A. Johnstone

Johnstone Justice. Made in America. . . .

William W. Johnstone and J.A. Johnstone deliver a special holiday gift for devoted fans of the Jensen saga—a warmhearted story of burning revenge, blazing bullets, and other Jensen family traditions . . .

Like most families, the Jensens gather together to celebrate the holidays. This year, since half the clan is scattered across the American West, they’ve decided to split the difference and meet up in Tucson. Matt and Luke will be there, for sure, and maybe Ace and Chance, too. That leaves Sally, Preacher, and Smoke Jensen, who’ve reserved three seats on a westbound stage to make sure they don’t miss out on the festivities. What could possibly go wrong?

The first to strike is a sandstorm as blinding and deadly as any northern blizzard. Then comes an Apache ambush, forcing the passengers and drivers to seek shelter in a cave. Even if Smoke and Preacher manage to shoot their way out of this, they have another big surprise waiting—a ruthless gang of outlaws after the cargo of cash on the stage, happy to slaughter anyone who tries to stop them. If the Jensens hope to save Christmas this year, they’ll need to save their own lives first . . .
NOTE:Folks, every book I review on The MountainGnome, I have read and give my honest opinion. This book is excellent reading and exciting (IMO)!

The B9 2.0 Life force Unit.

Super Simple Kits for anyone to work with.
Custom Built in the USA.
Designed to plug into the chest of the 1/6 scale Moebius B9 model. New! For those of you that do not want sound, just the chest lights, see that version for sale at end of page.Click here

In the true tradition of E/FX™, Starling proudly introduces our latest Plug-N-Play Life Force Light and Sound kit, The B9 2.0 Life force Unit.

Completely designed to fit and bring the most Life like effects to the Moebius 1/6 B9 Robot, there is no better or easier way to add light and sound to your model.

Built Heavy Duty with top quality components for longevity, our boards will last for generations. Powered by 4.5v battery power. Rechargeable 3xAAA batteries were tested and lasted 22hrs running continuously. All kits are completely tested before packaging.

There is no soldering and no need to add any other lighting as they are all set up in this kit.

Our miniature circuit board plugs right into the chest and provides many effects that are listed below including our "No show " switch or pushbutton design.

Features:

This amazing effect features everything a fan of Lost In SpaCe could want.

• Available in 1st season Black/White or all other seasons in Color version.
• Plug-N-Play B9 2.0 Life force Unit with all flashing and non flashing chest LEDs integrated into board.
• Perfectly synced Light to Sound voice box using our bright Glow tube.
• 3xAAA Battery harness.
• Speaker and high quality sound board pre-loaded with 17 sounds with down-loadable software to add your own sounds if you wish.
• Installed 0402 LEDs for the Brain.
• A No Show switch or pushbutton design.
• Easy to follow detailed installation instructions with many photos sent via email.
• Optional voice activation RC control available.
• Optional mechanical sound sound board available.
Requirements:
• Normal modeling tools.
• Favorite glue and clear epoxy.
• Small piece of .010, .020 polystyrene white sheet or card stock.
• Small pieces of Clear polystyrene sheet (optional.)
• Paragrafix 1/6 B9 photo-etched kit (optional.)
• Any 3x AAA Batteries. (Rechargeable recommended.)

Built with top quality components for longevity.

Runs on 4.5volt (Not included)
Moebius 1/6 scale model not included.
Add batteries and you can play with the entire kit straight out of the package.

TO SEE VIDEOS OF THESE EXCITING FX KITS IN ACTION GO TO "STARLING TECHNOLOGIES"
DON'T SEE WHAT YOU NEED? WE CAN BUILD A CUSTOM KIT FOR YOUR PROJECT!

• TIMES IN HISTORY WHEN USING THE "F' WORD WAS APPROPRIATE.....
  "Aw c'mon. Who the @#$% is going to find out?"
  - Bill Clinton, 1997

BLUE EYE, MISSOURI: Welcome to White River Lodge!

For a unique bed and breakfast experience, you won’t want to miss the rustic elegance that awaits you at the White River Lodge near Branson in Missouri’s Ozark Mountains!

This luxury, log B&B offers the finest in Table Rock Lake lodging with spectacular lake views, luxurious amenities, attention to details, and hospitality to delight even the most discriminating guests.Whether it’s a romantic getaway, relaxation, Branson activities, fishing or boating on Table Rock Lake, when you choose lodging at the White River Lodge in Blue Eye, Missouri, your innkeepers Bill and Becky Babler will help you discover your perfect vacation.

Completed in May of 2005, the White River Lodge is handcrafted using Colorado Engelmann Spruce logs, Arkansas field stone, and lots of glass; a dream come true. The azure waters of Table Rock Lake are displayed in a 180-degree, breathtaking vista from every guestroom, including yours!

This 10,000 sq. ft. log bed and breakfast, with 4 private guestrooms, and 1 two-bedroom suite, rests on 40 scenic acres, 20 minutes south and west of Branson overlooking Table Rock Lake to the east (Hwy 65 south to Hwy 86 west to UU to Ozark Hollow Road).

After a good night’s sleep in our comfortable, handcrafted log beds, wake up to a beautiful sunrise over Table Rock Lake. A freshly ground cup of coffee and delicious breakfast will be waiting for you.

After breakfast, relax at the lodge or enjoy all that the Branson and Table Rock Lake area has to offer: boating, golfing, hiking, horseback riding, shopping and antiques, Big Cedar Lodge’s and Top of the Rock restaurants, Dogwood Canyon, Eureka Springs, Silver Dollar City, Showboat Branson Belle, and of course, Branson’s many live shows and attractions. If fishing is your passion, Lake Taneycomo winds its way through old downtown Branson and offers world-class trout fishing, or you can fish for the illusive bass on beautiful Table Rock Lake from Branson to Shell Knob, Missouri. Bill Babler’s White River Outfitters guide service will be happy to assist you with all your fishing needs.

NOTE: We will no longer suggest Colorado, or any other state that legalized the sale of illegal drugs, as a hunting, skiing, vacation destination without warning you of the consequences!
Due to the legalization of drugs in the state: increases in crime, drug related shootings, increasing traffic deaths, increasing hit & run incidents, we feel your vacations are better spent elsewhere!!




YOUR PRIVACY AND YOUR FREEDOM IS UNDER ATTACK!!
Congress voted to allow your internet service providers to sell your online activity to advertisers – here’s the simplest way to prevent that from happening.

Goodbye Internet Privacy, Hello Anonymous VPNs: How To Keep Your Browser History Private

Every week read about the latest developments in privacy software for the home, internet, e-mail..etc..Is the government sticking their noses to far into your private life? Find out more...

Software, Articles, Web Sites and Tips helping YOU protect your PRIVACY!!

BASICS OF CRYPTOGRAPHY - Download or view this manual.

The best free privacy software 2017!
Online privacy is a hot topic, with even world leaders weighing in on the subject. Many of the big-name websites and companies will track your activities to deliver targeted advertising, and can build up an astonishingly detailed profile including your interests, spending habits, age, location and more.

If you would prefer to keep your personal details private, a VPN or proxy tool will help. See the guide to setting up and maintaining a VPN.

TOR
Fortunately, using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) is a super-easy way to mask your identity online and keep your browser history private, as well as boost security. Free options are available, including ones built into web browsers or installed as extensions. Once you’ve installed the VPN you just use the internet as usual.



Folks....here you'll find delicious recipes for main dishes, deserts, "kool" drinks, wild game, and more ~ Updated in every new edition of The MountainGnome!

Have a special recipe you want to share?
Please e-mail us at recipes@mountaingnome.com

STOLLEN
The Best Christmas Bread You're Probably Not Making:

INGREDIENTS:
• 1 c. (175 g.) dark and golden raisins
• 1/4 c. (50 g.) candied lemon peel
• 1/8 c. (25 g.) candied orange peel
• 2 oz. (50 ml or 1 miniature bottle) dark rum
• 1 envelope yeast, 7 g. (or 1 cake of yeast, 30 g.)
• 1/2 c. (125 ml) milk
• 1/3 c.(50 g.) sugar
• 4 c. flour, bread or all-purpose
• 1 egg
• 1/2 vanilla bean (or 1 tsp. vanilla paste or extract)
• 2 tablespoons lemon zest (zest from 1 lemon)
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp. ground nutmeg
• 1/4 tsp. ground cardamom
• 7/8 c. (14 tbsp. or 200 g.) sweet, unsalted butter
• 2/3 c.(100 g.) flour
• 1/3 c. (50 g.) whole almonds (blanched, peeled and chopped)
• 1/2 c. melted butter
• 1/2 c. powdered sugar (for dusting)

DIRECTIONS:

1.) Soak raisins, candied fruit and almonds in rum overnight, stirring occasionally.
2.) Dissolve yeast in warm milk and a pinch of sugar. Proof for 10 minutes, or until bubbles form.
3.) Mix flour, egg, yeast mixture, sugar, lemon peel and salt with a spoon or in a stand mixer using the dough hook for several minutes. The dough should just come together and not be very smooth yet. Remove from bowl and set aside while you do the next step.
4.) Cream the butter and 2/3 cup flour with the nutmeg and cardamom until smooth. Add the yeast dough back to the bowl and work the dough with a dough hook or by hand until the butter and flour mixture is completely incorporated. This should yield a smooth dough.
5.) Let dough rest, covered, for 30 minutes.
6.) Turn dough out onto tabletop or lightly floured board. Knead in fruit and chopped almonds. Let rest for 15 minutes.
7.) Return dough to floured board and form into a rectangle with two high sides and a dip in the middle. Fold 1/3 of the dough over to the middle, filling the dip. Pat into a stollen shape.
8.) Fold a piece of aluminum foil several times on the two long ends to build walls for your stollen, to help hold its shape while baking. You may also use a stollen pan if you have one.
9.) Let stollen rise for 30 minutes in a warm place.
10.) Preheat oven to 350 F. Dot the top of the stollen with butter.
11.) Bake loaves for 35 - 45 minutes, or until loaves are golden and done. Cover with foil if it begins to brown too much.
12.) Brush warm loaf with butter and dust thickly with powdered sugar. Cool on ​rack.
13.) Wrap tightly in foil and keep in a cool place for 2 to 3 weeks to ripen.

For more great recipes come back soon!

• A liberal is just a conservative that hasn't been mugged yet.