Cowboys Never Grow Up | Eastern North Carolina Now

   TMc posted an article about having a carbine and a handgun chambered in the same caliber being an old tradition. See that article here: TMc:.44 Magnum.     While Ted's article was not the least bit controversial, it reminded me of the passion that is displayed when people have a different perspective on almost any subject. As it my usual habit of making a spiral connection between two different subjects, I am prompted to offer this slightly exaggerated view.

   Perhaps the best way to start an argument outside of politics is to enter a discussion on which caliber of ammunition is best for any given situation.  The landscape of arguments has been heavily influenced by Hollywood movies and folklore.  In my opinion it all boils down the reason one chooses a firearm.

   As a former avid collector, I always preferred authentic caliber and model over current models.  That is merely a dollar and cents calculation for investment purposes.  I am not now and have not been an active shooter for over 50 years.  I do, however appreciate the beauty and workmanship of any well-made fire arm.

   The current Cowboy Shooting craze that has sprung up usually requires a rifle and pistol in the same caliber.  If I were prone to participate in this unique field of shooting, I would choose the 45 Long Colt caliber because of its availability and the vast array of both pistols and rifles.

   Having said that, it is easy to get bogged down in historical accuracy and practical shooting.  Going back to my first sentence, all one has to do is read the comments on any gun site to see that there is a distinct connection between testosterone and big guns.  Political social media also seems to be laced with the same malady. Just like politics, having a strong opinion is a requirement in establishing manliness and the smugness of one's own self-identity. The modern day equivalent of a shoot out on main street has been repeated recently in good old Washington DC.

   We are currently in the middle of an argument on which is more provocative:

   I see a parallel here and at risk of possibly offendeding all with my choice of 45 Long Colt for both rifle and pistol, here is my preference: The Henry is a beautiful piece of work and of course the Colt Lone Ranger model pistol with suitable engraving.

The little boy is still alive and well in this aging Cowboy.

     Of course it goes without saying that you can't have a Cowboy without Cowboy Music. There are those that would say the selectoins below are not really cowboy music, but that is an argument for another article.