The End
I'm sorry guys, but I will soon be turning off this blog. I am tired of arguing with a bunch of know-it-alls and chuckle-heads. I am tired of getting emails from people who object to what I write about criminals and people who have handled firearms irresponsibly. This is a blog, not a forum. I have tried, however, to answer even the most thick headed missives with respect and decorum. Frankly, I often wanted to simply say "Who the Hell do you think you are? Write your own damned blog. I am not here to serve you."
I began this blog out of anger at the New Orleans/Katrina firearms confiscations. I continued it because I felt I had a few things to say that would help others. I hung on past that point because people told me they enjoyed my writing.
I will not disolve my blog into nether space, but it will be made into a private reference and diary for myself in the very near future. If there is information here you would like, copy it quickly.
It's been a good run, thank you for your readership and friendship.
I began this blog out of anger at the New Orleans/Katrina firearms confiscations. I continued it because I felt I had a few things to say that would help others. I hung on past that point because people told me they enjoyed my writing.
I will not disolve my blog into nether space, but it will be made into a private reference and diary for myself in the very near future. If there is information here you would like, copy it quickly.
It's been a good run, thank you for your readership and friendship.
Labels: State of the Blog
posted by Xavier at 1:36 PM
319 Comments:
I'm terribly sorry that the ignorance of others has brought you to this point. If there's any convincing worth mentioning, I'd sure like it if you pulled your email address and shut down comments. I do like to send people here for information and whatnot.
If not, I understand.
tweaker
I think it's likely not my place to comment, but I'll give it a try. . .
The vast majority of your readers enjoy your work, and will be sorry to see you leave. Sure, there are a few idiots, and they are annoying, but it would unfortunate to see you step back from the blog on account of the vocal minority.
If it's not too late, please reconsider. Idiots can always be ignored, but once you're gone, where will the rest of us (the vast majority of you readers) go for thoughtful commentary on firearms and photography (both hobbies of mine as well)?
That sucks as I enjoyed the posts.
Happy trails and fair weather.
Sorry to see you go.
Your blog has been enjoyable, and has helped me be a more competent gun owner.
well as a frequent reader i have to say that i will miss your insight on gun responsibility. this is my first post and i guess my last. but i was happy to find your page and now have to find another one to keep me updated on responsible gun ownership and ugly guns. well take care and don't let the knuckleheads keep you down!
I'm quite sorry to hear this. I have read your blog for about a year now, and have thoroughly enjoyed it. There's been some great information, and I've forwarded numerous blog posts to my friends & family. I wish you didn't have to withdraw your writing from the public eye.
Sadly,
Papaster
Xavier,
I understand your reasons, but will still be sad to see you go. i don't often comment here, but wanted you to know I've enjoyed your insights.
--Jay from OK
Give it some thought my friend?
I've tried to give it up a few times, usually when I get whipsawed by life and events.
For what it's worth, your blog is on my feed list, and when a new entry shows up it gets read, every time.
If packing it up is your course, then so be it. I thank you for all the good words you have strung together till now.
I don't know who the idiots are, but we are losing a great writer and a great source of information on guns, photography, and life!
Any chance that you'd consider making new posts private and keep the old ones up? You've got a gold mine of information here!
I'm very sorry to hear this! I read you every day and while no two people always agree I've enjoyed it immensely.
Thanks for the time you took to write these things.
Thanks Xavier,
I've enjoyed your blog, and will miss it.
Bob
Sorry to see you go man, I have allways enjoyed you posts
Much thanks
Dave
I'm sorry to hear that. I've enjoyed reading you since I found you several years ago. After I bought a 1911 last year, I was even more interested in those pieces in particular, as well as those that dealt with teaching new shooters.
Damn it. Seriously.
When reading time is at a premium, one must make hard choices about what one is to read. Your blog made the 'cut' long ago, and I've enjoyed reading everything you've posted.
You'll be sorely missed.
-=[ Grant ]=-
Your blog is the blog that got me into reading gun blogs. Now my favorites is packed with all kinds of gun blogs but in the beginning... there was only one. That would be yours. And i still check this one every day. First "the other side" goes and now you go?! But you owe us nothing. I have learned alot. Ive laughed and ive cried through the years. Not really but i was entertained enough to keep coming back... especially the pawn shop circuit thing. Good stuff. From one of the antivirus systems im currently using to my factory refurb Nikon camera you suggested there is alot that you typed that helped me out in my life. Have a good rest of yours.
Will A
:-(
I've always enjoyed your blog since I found it a year ago. I shall miss your writing. I will especially miss the writings about your profession of choice, and your photography.
Thank you for the entertainment and the information.
X - Thank you.
I discovered your blog a few years back looking for shooting topics. I have especially enjoyed the pawn shop posts and have referred more than one person here for enlightenment. I copied the four rules from you for my 17 year old's boy friend before our first trip to the range...
Along the way, I've been given a peak into bicycles, cameras and trama nursing.
I live in the Houston area and (although I havent made many comments - maybe I should have) consider you a good neighbor.
Via Con Dios
-Hoop
Sorry to lose you, but I understand. I enjoyed your posts on guns, bicycles and pawn shops.
This is a damned bloody shame. Yours is one of my favorite sites to read. Is there anyway you'll reconsider?
Sorry to hear this turn of events, Xavier. Thanks for many thought-provoking and informative posts. I'm going to print a number of my favorites. As a RKBA enthusiast, EMT, and aspiring ER/Trauma nurse, I have thoroughly appreciated your blog. I start nursing school in a few days.
My best to you and your family.
Closing down your blog to the public is truly a shame Xavier; it's been one of my anticipated daily reads for years now. I've greatly enjoyed the distinct way you tell your stories (not to mention the wide variance in topics; kept things from getting stale)and the often humble way you've tried to impart knowledge along the way.
That being said, I understand at least some of your reasons for shutting down your blog. Good luck and thanks for the work you've put into your writing here for the last few years.
Sorry to see you go. Your 5 rules of concealed carry are cited around the net. I like your stories of the OR (I'm an anesthesiologist), your photos, and personal commentary on firearms. Ignore the bozos, trolls, etc. But, as always, it's your choice. Take care and be safe.
That's sad, you've been one of my favorite gun blogs. Your writing and opinions will be missed.
I hope you return to public blogging at some point - but do what's best for you.
Would you be able to leave past posts publicly accessible, and only make future posts private? I'm not sure which of your past posts I'll want to reference next month!
Thank you for your writing and inspiration over the years.
I'm disappointed that you would let the opinions of a few complete strangers keep you from blogging on for the (many) people who enjoy your writing.
You could always do what I do when I receive dumb comments and emails. Delete them. You have no obligation to justify your opinions to anyone, nor do you have an obligation to pay them any mind.
Once again the few have ruined it for the rest of us. I have absorbed everything here for months and recently purchased my first 1911 as a result of information I gathered from you. Thank you.
I'll be sorry to see you go, with your stories from the hospital, and Ilsa, and cycling, and pawn-shop gun buying, and those ugly guns. I understand, tho, vaya con Dios.
Well I've always enjoyed it, but I understand, regards The Duck
Sorry it came to this Xavier. I've been a long-time reader/lurker and have rarely, if ever, commented, but did enjoy your thoughts on firearms, health care, photography and the other wide range of subjects you cover.
I understand your decision. When its not fun anymore, its not fun any more.
Xavier,
I would like to thank you for sharing your blog with us, although I will miss it very much. You are the kind of man I would enjoy having a beer with and talking about the family, etc. Have you considered an "Xavier Forum" with membership priveleges for those of us who enjoy your lively intellect? If that is not be so, I want to wish you the best of luck in all future endeavors. Thanks once again for entertaining and informing me :)
HankH
Thank you for sharing your thoughts and knowledge. I have greatly enjoyed reading your thoughts on every subject from firearms to medicine, to photography, to self and home defence. I have in fact saved some, with proper attribution of course. Again thank you. Should you again in the future reactivate you interest in blogging, I for one, will be gratefully reading once again.
Kickapoo
Disappointed at your leaving, but understand. I have enjoyed your blog, and have learned from what you have written.
Take care.
Mr Fixit
You'll be missed. Thanks for sticking with it as long as you did.
I enjoyed your thoughts. I just printed your chili recipe for future reference; it is great food.
I will leave the RSS subscription in my blog reader in hopes that you come back someday.
Gah! Is there any way to change your mind on this? I rarely comment, but love reading your entries. I initially stopped by when reading a gun-related post years ago, and have since enjoyed reading and learning about bikes and photography, and who can forget Ilsa?
I have to admit to selfishness here, because I enjoy reading your entries. Plus, I hope to one day be able to afford a 1911, so I always enjoy reading those posts to see what tricks I might pick up for later use.
I hate that it's gotten frustrating enough for you to consider just hanging it all up. If you do decide to go through with it, you will be sorely missed.
Casey
Dang.
We'll miss ya.
Xavier, you will be missed. Your's is one of the blogs I check daily. Take care!
Loved your stuff. Ugly gun Sunday always made me laugh :)
Be blessed!
I, for one, will miss you, Xavier. I can understand your position, though. To you and yours ... two-legged and four-legged, here's all the best. Be safe, Xavier and thank you for all the enjoyment, entertainment and wisdom you've provided.
Regards.
Sorry to hear that X. I have enjoyed both reading what you had to say as well as looking at your photos.
It's a damned shame that a few trolls can run a good man off, but so it goes........
hej Xav - dont let the idiots win...
Bjørn
I, for one, will miss your photos and point of view. I've enjoyed your stories, and am sorry the trolls got to you.
Hang in there, and remember: if you leave, the trolls win.
Just...damn, as the late Acidman used to say.
I'll miss your blog, Xavier. Best wishes to you in your future endeavors. Please drop by and comment on my blog if you feel like it, ok? Don't be a stranger.
Yours has been one of my favorite blogs. I enjoy your comments on all topics, but especially on guns. I have learned a lot from you. Best wishes and good luck.
Xavier,
Being new to pistol shooting, less than a year, I found your blog and many of the links to contain a wealth of information. I'll miss checking in daily, for the latest pawn shop find, a story you may have pulled from somewhere, even Sunday's ugly gun. Never wrote in before but I felt I should now. Congrats on the new son-in-law, wait until you get the first grand child. Nothing else like it, my wife and I have been blessed with three. I'll miss you.
Matt from upstate NY
Nick and I will miss you and Ilsa. Thanks again. To the extent I have a well reasoned and logically consistant opinion on many subjects related to handguns, I owe the factual underpinnings to you. Your prose is well constructed, clear and accessible. If you build a book out of it consider me in line for a copy. We will all be better for that. On the other hand, you may just be suffering from post "father of the bride depression", in which case I expect you will shake it off soon enough, especially when you see that grandchildren can and do result from this progession. Good luck there too and I speak from joyful experience. SDB
I am very sad to hear this. You have for a long time educated, entertained, inspired and informed a huge number of people. You will be sorely missed. Thank you for all you have given us.
To the haters and wreckers that have caused this to come about: DIAF.
Aw, man, I really wish you would reconsider. This place is a great library of information and entertainment.
Kick back, write about your family, your photography, your work, your bikes, and your guns only when you feel like it. Shut off the comments and remove your email address. You don't have to answer every slight or acknowledge every compliment. Pretend nobody is reading...
What you write today is the history people may be reading years from now.
Jeez, I really hate to think this all is going away.
I've been reading your blog for a few months now. I really enjoy your thoughts on firearms, photography, and even the little bits of your personal life. I suppose I understand your desire to end it though. Good luck to you.
sad to see ya go X
-Akodo
Well, darn it. I for one thank you for your efforts and diverse material over the years. I'm no cyclist nor photographer, but the windows you provided into those worlds were illuminating and enjoyable.
May the future for you and yours be bright and positive.
And thank you once again. Thanks are simply not enough, but that's all that's available. Take care.
Xavier,
Do what works for you but know there will be folks out there who miss this place.
X -- Sorry to read this. Like most things open to public comment, the unhappy minority can easily sound louder than the satisfied majority.
The only thing I'd suggest for consideration is that you don't have to respond to the idiots. The folks who come here and read your blog for what it is, we know which way is up. Some moron who wants to espouse a contrary view is best left ignored.
I certainly appreciate the time, effort, and heart that goes into keeping something like your blog alive and vital. You've done a fantastic service for the community. If you've run your race and are now ready to retire, no one can begrudge you that. I just hope you're making the decision that is best for you, rather than the one that is best for the those who enjoy arguing for the sake of argument.
Train hard & stay safe. ToddG
I for one would like to thank you, sir. Although I didn't agree with everything you posted, I always respected how you presented yourself.
But probably what I appreciated most was your love of the 1911, and your willingness to share what you had learned about them.
Thanks.
Tanner
I'm sorry to see you go, but I understand your frustration. As a fellow gunny who also loves to paint with light (I make my living with video, but the skills are the same whether the pictures are still or in motion), I've enjoyed your smart, knowledgeable writing.
I've always admired Smiths and 1911s, which is why I checked in here after discovering your photos on THR. Take care, and know that you added to the conversation.
luckytexan
Xavier, I for one have greatly enjoyed your writing,
I've learned a lot about .45's, medicine, photography and life.
I will miss your daily (almost) thoughts.
Good luck and fair winds my friend.
God Bless
Bill "depicts" Despinosa
We will miss you. I really enjoyed looking in from time to time, but I understand the issue. We never met, we never will - but from Scottsdale AZ, concealed carrier, hunter and conservative - I thank you for your efforts.
Steve
Sir,
I respect your feelings - but...
Perhaps you'd consider continuing, but with comments disabled and/or e-mail de-listed.
Although I only discovered your blog fairly recently (about 2 months ago, actually), it has become a place I visit for certain features that I find appealing - and I am sure there must be a fair number of others for whom the appeal is there, as well.
You write well, and on interesting topics. You do a job that most cannot - that I, myself, could not do - and you tell your readers about it in heartfelt terms. You have an eye for the absurd (cf., the Sunday Ugly Gun series), and are a clear-cut advocate for the right - and responsibility - of self defense and (when/if needed) defense of others. These are qualities that can never be overrepresented, online or elsewhere.
Please consider, deeply, continuing, at least in a somewhat less troll-available form.
Thank you for your contribution.
Best regards,
J.S.Bridges, a reader
We will miss you. I really enjoyed looking in from time to time, but I understand the issue. We never met, we never will - but from Scottsdale AZ, concealed carrier, hunter and conservative - I thank you for your efforts.
Steve
Xavier: I have enjoyed your writing and pictures and am sorry that a sorry few have caused this. My best to you and your family. Regards, Hank.
Your blog shall be missed, especially Ugly Gun Sunday and your coverage of 1911s. :(
Is there any way you could be convinced to continue writing? You could always disable comments, hide your email, etc.
I'm gonna miss you and yer blog. You're #1 in my guns and ammo folder. And I like the photo stuff. You changed the way I look at pawn shops.
Xavier,
will miss your insight on a great many things. I hope that things go well for you in the future. While I'm sure that I never commented very much, always enjoyed reading what you had to say.
Goodluck sir,
Jim
Thanks for years of 'free ice cream'.
Sorry to read that. Your blog was one of first two blogs I started to read on a regular basis.
I especially liked the pawn shop stories. I like to think I've learned a thing or two from them.
I also liked your S&W and 1911 expositions.
I wish you the best.
This comment has been removed by the author.
That is a shame. If you've already made the decision to stop, so be it. By why not just turn off comments and ignore mail from morons you don't want? It doesn't have to be a two-way conversation. Think of it more as like a network broadcast or newspaper publication. Except you won't respond to letters-to-the-editor.
Either way, have appreciated your posts on both photography and firearms and hope to see you publishing again soon.
LOL can't stand the heat get out of the kitchen I suppose.
put yourself out there, you're going to butt heads with people. that's true of anything. thought you were a bit tougher than this. friggin 12 year olds on youtube can handle that.
will miss ugly gun sunday... s'bout it.
OMG! I can't believe one of my very favorite bloggers is going away.
Although I haven't commented very often, I checked in every day at least once.Never disagreed with any of your posts, loved the pawn shop visits, and learned a lot about 1911's my favorite handgun.
GOD Bless you and yours.
Ron Mitchell(Gunsmoke45441)
screw those guys. just turn off comments and keep posting. why suffer the fools? regardless, its your blog, do what ye want with it.
Well, damn, Xavier. I'm sorry to hear you aren't enjoying this. Yours is the first blog I check each day (even ahead of Law Dog!). I'm doubly sorry that you're stopping because the idiots have worn you down. It's like they've won a round.
What about going to a subscription/ approval-only format, or just taking an e-vacation? Or you could forward the idiot mail to me for a pithy response. ;)
If this is the end, then I hope I'll see you on the usual forums.
Antibubba
Sorry about your decision but understand, I've enjoyed what you've wrote, thanks.
Chris
Xavier: I have greatly enjoyed following your posts - the firearms, the bikes, the medical - all of them interesting. Thank you for sharing your thoughts. You will be missed.
Thanks for writing. I didn't find your blog until recently. I've really enjoyed it and I'm sorry to see it leave. Drop me a line sometime if you want shoot the breeze.
Thanks for the memories. You'll be missed.
Do you plan to let anyone from the world in? I'm a Canon shooter ... but other than that I shouldn't be a problem to you. I kinda want to say I'm pissed you're shutting it down, but I have a feeling that's what you're trying to get away from. You're my favorite stop in blogland. Give me a chance to stay? -David
p.s. I thought the .45 was a great gift.
Keep your powder dry and have lots o' powder.
I've really enjoyed it. You'll be missed. Good luck with the photography.
Sorry to see you go Xavier. Of all the "information" on the internet, your blog was the most practical and informative I've seen. You have helped encourage me in my pursuit of responsible gun ownership. I'll miss checking this site everyday to see if there is yet another nugget of truth I can take with me. Take care and God Bless
Sorry to see you go Xavier. Of all of the "information" on the internet yours was by far the most practicle and informative (and often entertaining). You have really helped along in my pursuit of responsible gun ownership. I'll miss checking this site everyday to glean another nugget of truth to carry me along. Take Care and God Bless
Xavier,
Your blog is one of the few out there that I have regularly read and enjoyed over the past couple of years.
It sounds as if you've made your mind up, but I hope you'll reconsider. Either way, I wish you well and thank you for sharing your thoughts and advice... as I will surely miss reading your updates.
thorn
I'm sad to hear that, I loved to read your posts even when it didn't agree with them. I hope you and yours continue to do well.
Xavier, I've enjoyed your blog greatly over the past couple of years. You've taught me some things, and I respect your opinions. Sorry to see you go! Stay well and don't let the bas.. er, chuckleheads get you down!
Xavier, I've enjoyed your blog greatly over the past couple of years. You've taught me some things, and I respect your opinions. Sorry to see you go! Stay well and don't let the bas.. er, chuckleheads get you down!
Thanks for the many lessons. I learned a ton and always enjoyed reading your thoughts. A toast to your life free of blogdom.
Sorry to hear, it will be missed.
Keep your powder dry.
I've enjoyed the blog, good luck in the future.
Chip in SC
Sorry to see you go. I have enjoyed this blog.
Here's a thought. If you like blogging and don't want to put up with the BS, maybe you could turn off comments and change your email account.
Then just write what you will and no one can bother you. Good luck whatever you decide to do. This is one of the better blogs out there. I hate to see it go.
Joe
Good luck out there. Have fun with the photography. I'm trying to.
I'll be sad to see you blog go. In my opinion it is the best gun-blog (bicycles, dogs, and cameras not withstanding) out there. Indeed, you always seemed to offer informed, experienced, and thoughtful opinions.
If I could offer a suggestion though... don't close down the blog. Instead just end the comments section. Post what you think without regard for the rest of us. Honestly, I don't come here to read the opinions of others - just your opinions.
In any case, best of luck with whatever path you choose.
Nathan
Buffalo, NY
Hey Xavier, I'll miss you when you stop writing your blog, but I understand why you must stop.
Take care of yourself and your family.
With Respect,
Taliesin MacAran
Phoenix, Az.
I understand. I'll miss you. Be well.
i've never commented on your blog, but i've been a loyal reader for years. while we don't agree on some issues, i've always enjoyed reading your posts - we have many of the same interests, including firearms, photography, and riding and tinkering with bicycles. i especially enjoyed your posts about your work, and your dogs, many of which brought me to tears. i will miss you greatly. good luck in the future.
I'm sorry to hear about this, but I can't say I blame you. You want the blog to be a fruitful outlet, not a source of pain and frustration.
I wish that you would not remove the content nor make it private. There's so much good resource material here, it'd be a shame if it disappeared from the Internet for good. But in the end, this is your home and you're welcome to do with it as you wish.
I've enjoyed your blog and your writing. Not just all the gun stuff, but little treats like the dog blogging.
Godspeed.
Xavier -
Unto all things, there is a time to live, and a time to die.
I am saddened by your decision, out of selfishness, for I value all of your posts, whether or not they are about activities that I am specifically involved in.
I am also glad for your decision, for you have decided not to waffle further. This has always been your blog, to post, or not to post, on any topic that you chose. We were privileged to be allowed to follow along.
I think yours was the first blog I ever read. Many more have followed, many linked first from here.
I will not say goodbye. More like "we'll chat later". Take care of yourself and your family.
Steve
Xavier - As a medical professional working in emergency medicine and an avid gun nut and second amendment supporter, I am truly sorry to hear your news. If you change your mind, I will continue to read your blog regularly...If not, I wish you well in your future endeavors.
SteveB
I'm very sorry to see it go. I have enjoyed reading it.
I've been a silent reader of your blog for a good while now and am sad to see you go but I understand your reasons. I thank you for all of the good information that you have presented and wish you all the best now and in the future.
Thanks,
Eddie in Va
You will be missed. Thank you
Xavier yours is one of my favorite blogs.
Why not just close comments? i'll hate to see you go.
Chuckle heads keep ruining everything good. I've enjoyed your blog for quite some time and I'm sorry it's come to this. I've always found your posts educational and even handed. While I have no interest in pedal power, I still loved reading your writing. I felt absolute envy when you found such a good deal on your Nikon and loved seeing your photos.
If you're one of the nameless chuckle heads that drove Xavier to this by being an ass with the knowledge that he couldn't confront you in person, then damn you to hell!
Good luck Xavier,
Bryan
Sorry to read that. Keep your back to the wind and your powder dry.
Xavier,
Thanks for the Blog, it has been great for the time that it has been up.
Tried my hand at the Blog game for a while, just for my own uses, and even then I didn't have what it takes to keep it updated. Its a miracle my status on Facebook gets updated.
Thanks for the head's up, and I'll be sure to print to PDF any articles that I want to keep for myself down the line- Lord knows you've put a lot of hard work into them.
So, for sharing them and yourself with us- thankyou.
I'm sorry to see you go. I've enjoyed reading and I daresay I've learned a thing or three.
I wish you all the best!
It appears that quite a few folks forgot that if you can't say anything nice don't say anything at all. You'll be missed X.
I'll be sorry to see you go. I tend to fall in line with your thinking in most of the situations offered and discussed on your blog. I've enjoyed your writings and your reviews.
Good luck in wherever you go from here!
(PS - my 7-year old daughter can recite the 4 rules and adheres to them!)
Any chance of continuing your blog? I think your writing is informative & wonderful. It would be a shame for it to disappear. *Tears up*
Well, that's too bad. I came late to the party, but have enjoyed being here. Thank you and good luck!
Xavier, First Kim duToit, now you. I too am a nurse with a few guns, bicycles, and cameras in addition to a couple of IH Scouts. You did good, I'll miss the blog. It is one of only a half dozen I try to read daily. If Brigid ever leaves the world is near to ending. Good luck and thanks.
Sorry to hear that - I'll miss reading it. It's your blog, and you're under no obligation to be polite to idiots and chuckleheads who have demonstrated that they are immune to politeness. But, if you're fed up, you're also under no obligation to keep it going.
So farewell and best of luck in the future.
I'm very sorry to see you go--your blog has been on the "must read today" list for...well, since I made a "must read today" list. I'd much rather see you refuse to argue, or ignore comments or something, but of course it is up to you.
Thank you, I loved your blog.
Your resignation is Not Accepted.
Please resume blogging as per your regular schedule.
That Is All.
Thank you for everything past, and eveything to follow.
- From USCitizen, one of your many daily readers.
I wil miss you sir,all the best to you and yours.
Sincerely,
Thad C. Adams RN
Xavier
Sorry you have had to deal with jackanapes and nitwits to such an extent that you are shuttin' it down. I've really enjoyed reading your blog.
Mark
Xavier,
I'm sorry to see you leaving. I noticed your posting getting a bit sparse. I've very much enjoyed your blog and hope you revive it some day. If you take comments or post an email address, you'll always have to deal with f___sticks. I find that the worst part of democracy and freedom is that they get it too :)
Enjoy your next endeavor my friend. May you prosper at whatever it may be.
Groundhog
San Antonio
That's an extremely big bummer, X. I just discovered this blog and linked it to mine and wrote a post this week about how much I liked it.
FWIW, I agree pretty much totally with what you've said. Of course, I'm an ex-cop who is now a prosecutor and a lifelong shooter, so there you have it.
I have found your posts, particularly those involving firearms and shooting and crime to be spot on.
Read my post about what I thought about your wedding gift and your thoughts on revolvers and pistols and pistolcraft.
I know I can't influence your decision, but I hope you leave it up so that I can continue to read the rest of your posts.
You're doing good out here in cyber space, dude. Like the old blues song by the late KoKo Taylor says..."Reconsider, baby".
Xavier -
I do understand your reasoning behind your decision. I will miss your blog a great deal. While it is not a daily read for me, I do visit 2 or 3 times per week. We share an interest in firearms, bicycling and photography. Take care and God bless.
I've not commented before. Always been happy to just read, and enjoy.
Thank you for sharing. Good luck for the future.
We have never met so it's hard say" farewell my friend" but that is what it feels like. It will be tough not having your bookmark to click on.
Be good and do good.
Pete
Sorry to see you go. I've not only enjoyed reading your blog, I've learned some things too.
I just wanted to say "thanks." I really enjoyed your blog, and will miss it. Good luck!
Sorry to see you go, man. As a medic who once lived in NOLA, I was always interested in your blog. Good luck to you.
You will be missed.
Thank you. Best wishes.
Xavier - I've been a lurker on this site since the beginning, and can truthfully say that you've been a gentleman and a pleasure to read since the inception. I've enjoyed the ebb and flow of your thoughts as well as the range of your interests. I may have questioned some of your opinions, but they were honestly given, and I respect your courage to put them in front of the world.
I, and many others, have loyally checked your site frequently for updates these past weeks; and like my dog, you know the food bowl is empty, but it doesn't stop you from checking back for a choice morsel.
I've copied a few of your posts for my files over the years, and appreciate your work for its brevity and accuracy.
I've noted your increasing frustration, and know that the time is here for closing. Thanks for everything, I enjoyed the ride.
Vaya con dios.
Wow. Xavier -- We will miss you now that you've quit blogging.
Keep up the good fight to train new shooters! Thanks for the many excellent articles, especially your thoughts on pawnshopping.
Blog burnout can be inevitable; maybe if you had co-bloggers?? Perhaps someday we'll see you blog again.
Best of luck with all of your future endeavors.
Sorry to see you go. I liked your photography...especially all the firearms pics. Maybe you should make just a photo page where you can still share your pics with everyone and let the peanut gallery take a rest. Take care!
Thanks for all you've done.
The terrorists win if you close down! Truthfully, I cannot blame you; this is something you do as an outlet, a hobby and to take on poo flung by others can be an unnecessary burden. I'd tell you to turn off your comment sections or delete any emails from the site, but I guess you have already considered this. It's a shame because I found you only a few months ago and really enjoyed the mix of writing. Good luck!
Ultimately, it is your blog, and if you enjoy writing it, you should simply turn off comments, and not worry about whether anyone is reading it or not.
I for one will miss your writing, as I found it to be thoughtful and well written. I even learned a bit about photography, despite the fact that I am not a photographer.
545days (my user name on THR)
Don't let the armchair know-it-alls get you down! I love this blog!
Wow sorry to hear you're going it would be nice if you didn't have to drop the blog but I undersand. Too bad that people have to be such jerks, is becasue of you that I got into S&W big time. You'll be missed.
Sorry to hear this, Xavier. Thanks for your help along the way, take care.
I respect your decision, although I must admit to some disappointment as your blog is one of a handful I have visited regularly for the last several years. I have immensely enjoyed your posts on firearms related topics, pawn shop visits, photography (a passion of mine along with shooting), self defense, and even the Ilsa "chronicles". Your entries are thoughtful, articulate and artful and you should be proud of the quality of your blog as it has been consistently outstanding. Thank you for your efforts. You are one of the people who has made the internet a pleasurable experience for this old fart.
Sorry to hear that you've decided to stop blogging. I can't even remember how I found your blog but I have enjoyed reading it over the months. Wish you'd reconsider and change your mind but in the event that you don't, thanks again for your comments, insights and thoughts.
Wait!!!!!
Can't you just turn off comments and change your e-mail address and not give out the new one!
It was with sadness that I read this post. I've never commented on a blog before (anywhere), but felt the need to after reading this post. I can say that, without a doubt, your blog has been one of my favorite reads for the past few months. I've read back through your entire archive (I love the pawn shop and photography posts), enjoying your writing immensely. It is a shame that people out there felt the need to discourage you this way. Please know that there are at least some readers that are not of this mindset.
Thanks for the good reads!
X, sorry to see you go. I will miss your medical writing, your dog postings and your pawn shop visits.
As a parting shot, maybe you can create a Flickr album of the Ugly Gun Sundays for posterity! :-D
Godspeed, sir.
I certainly understand but...Damn, I'll miss this blog. Good luck.
Well I'm sure all of our hollering won't change your mind, I almost feel like I know you after having read your blog for so long, and I feel like you've definitely made up your mind. It's too bad. I wish you could at least leave the blog up for the rest of us to use as reference as well, even if you don't keep adding to it. I have come back to this blog time and time again to look up information that I once stumbled across here and made a mental note of. There's too much to copy it all now. It would be wonderful if even just the earliest posts stayed up as a testament of what happened post-Katrina.
In any case, thank you for years of service you've given our communities through the information disseminated by yourself and this blog. It has been a valuable resource. I'm sorry that detractors finally got you...I would say just ignore them, don't try to fight them or right them, but I know you're gonna do it your way in the end, and that's okay, because you don't owe me or anybody anything.
Good luck and stay safe,
Andy
I have often thought that trolls do what they do as a concerted effort to harrass into silence those they disagree with.
Kim DuToit and others have thrown in the towel as a result of too many fools for too long braying too loudly.
You have put up with it longer than I could have - well done.
Good luck. Hope you come back some day. I will miss your tales of the pawn circuit.
Xav, I have enjoyed your posts and agreed more than NOT agreed with your postings and at times find myself wondering if you get the emails that you confirmed today.. receiving..
I am sorry you have to go but thank you for the information you have conveyed through this blog
Please wonder over to www.bayoushooter.com for some like minded folks who wont give you so much grief.
Sorry to see you go, but understandable.
Thanks for taking the time over the years to write and for voicing your views in a thoughtful manner.
It will be hard to find a replacement. Good luck.
i will miss you.
have fun taking photos.
Unfortunate circumstances, to be sure, but understandable. Fair winds and following seas, Sir. All the best.
Oh well. One should blog for ones own amusement or needs.
If it's annoying, then I can't fault you for stopping ... well, idiots are why we generally don't get to keep nice things.
Good luck, and thanx for all the free ice cream.
Your blog was most enjoyed by me. My wife always liked the 'ugly gun Sunday'. Anyway thank you!!
Xavier,
I'm sad to hear that your blog will be going away. I've been following it for some time and I've never left a comment. I suppose that I didn't feel that I had much to add.
I've enjoyed your insights on firearms and I also love your photos. I'm really going to miss checking the "ugly gun" every Sunday.
I can't say that I've agreed with everything that you've ever said on the blog, but I have always appreciated the fact that you tend to support your point of view and that you make your points with respect.
I don't post much online, but if you're ever looking for me I go by Drkhrs on oregonconcealedcarry.com
Thank you for the permission to copy any information that we would like to hold on to from your blog.
It's to bad that some people are unable to disagree with others in a respectful manner.
I wish you well.
I'm sorry to see you go.
I checked in every day.
Good luck in the future.
Xavier, don't let them get you down. Why not just shut down comments for a while?
There are many of us who value your opinions (myself very much included), and enjoy your blog, no matter what the idiots say.
Good luck either way.
awe man. i like this blog. i dont understand the criticism of the arm chair elitists. i dont agree with every thing you write, but if i dont like it i dont read it, but i respect it. i view this blog as one mans views and experience with firearms. you have a gift of writing. i find my self reading your stories on thing i normally wouldnt be interested in. i love the pawn shop circuit section. please keep writing what you want and if you have to shut off the comments.
Damn!!! Any chance of keeping it up and just dropping the ability to comment (and ignoring the emails). Really hate to see you go. For every idiot out there, you have a great deal of silent readers who learn from and greatly appreciate your work. Please reconsider, don't let the bastards win. What better prize could you had over to your critics than to stop? Don't give them the pleasure.
Aw, man.
For what it's worth, I've always enjoyed reading what you have to say, especially on the subject of bringing newbies to the range. I followed links here from Tam's blog months and months ago, and I've been almost-daily ever since.
Cheers,
~Baker
Please reconsider - I enjoy your writings! I also shoot both bullets and pics, so the combo works for me. And your point of view is fine.
Turn off comments, or restrict them to known subscribers, maybe?
Besides, who will do Ugly Gun Sunday?
I'm sorry to hear you're signing off. I've really enjoyed your writing and your photos for a long time now. I'll be missing you.
Your blog will be sorely missed. I have read it daily. You posted a lot of good information on guns and more recently, photography. I especially I enjoyed your articles on your dogs.
I've enjoyed your blog for the short time I've read it, thanks for all the information you've shared.
It's been a great run, and I will miss your thoughts and articles. Best wishes for your future endeavors.
Ron
1/14/10
Save Your Thoughts,
Liked your writing and you helped me.
Love 1911s.
Bravo Zulu
Fair Winds and Following Seas
Cowboy Stadium Town
Well that just plain sucks but its your blog, you do what you feel is best, Your writing will be missed by this lurker.
Thank you and fare well.
I will miss your writing, your experiences, your thoughts, and your photography.
I also appreciate your reasons for closing the door.
I wish you all the best, Xavier.
Good luck in the future Xavier. I have had countless hours of daily enjoyment reading your blog.
It saddens me to see you go. I may not have agreed with all that you have said, but your writings have not kept me from visiting you site.
May we meet again somewhere in cyberspace.
I'm sure I speak for many people when I say that I am sorry to hear of this decision. Please know that there are many readers who enjoy your writing, stories and opinions and you will be sorely missed. May God bless you and yours. Thanks!
Damn, X.
I'm sorry to see you go; yours has been one of my daily stops for a couple years... but at the same time I completely understand.
God speed.
I can understand and accept your reasons for the decision.
However, I will miss your posts, as I have found them to be well written, informative and that present the subject matter in a limited bias light.
Thank you for all of your efforts over the years.
Sorry to hear you are closing the blog. I really enjoyed reading your blog. I check everyday I get to work if there are any changes. And enjoy every post.
I guess you always get the idiots that ruine it for everyone.
All the best to you for the future. Hoping you change your mind though.
It has been a gun run Xavier. I'll miss your blog.
-Rolando
Xaxier, I've been a regular reader for many years. I am very saddened to see it come to this. That being said I understand perfectly.
Thank you for the years of reading.
english kanigit
I am so very sorry you've been forced to this decision. Yours is the only blog that has it's own bookmark in my browser toolbar. I'll miss your insight, your wit, and especially your journey back into photography. You've been a sharp critic of stupidity and your focus of subjects (no apologies for the pun) has been unequaled. I'll miss you.
Xavier,
I have never written in. Been monitoring for a long time now. Your work has been appreciated and referenced. Thanks for your long-suffering efforts!
Wish you, your guns, your pets, and your bikes were staying on. Maybe you'll come up with a new passion to share with the rest of us in the blogosphere?
Anyway, thanks!
I'm sorry to see the jackass behavior of others has led you to pull your public writings from your blog. I have enjoyed reading your posts for several years now, and am still using the Crimson Trace laser you found on one of your pawn shop trophies.
Best of luck to you and yours in the future, both online and in the real world.
Ben C
That sucks, X. I've been a regular reader of your blog for a few years now, and I think you've done us a great service with it! I ask that you reconsider, since I'm sure that for every retard troll there's at least 10 people who look forward to your thoughtful and usually highly-educational posts!
If it's getting to the point where you hate doing it, though, I understand. This blog is yours and I know it takes valuable time to update it.
Either way you go, I'd like to say that I appreciate all the work you've put into the blog, making it an invaluable resource to me and many of your other readers.
Here's hoping you're happy with whatever decision you make!
Sorry to see you go.
I enjoyed reading and commenting on your blog - especially "Ugly Gun Sunday" posts.
I figure you'll see this, at least, whether you publish it or not, I'd like to thank you for writing. Having recently gotten into shooting, it's been quite helpful to me over the months since I first started reading. As a soon-to-be fellow medical professional, your ER/ED war stories were always interesting to me.
I'd like it if you were to change your mind, but I understand. It's why I quit being a message board admin years ago...dealing with trolls to any degree gets old fast. In any case, all the best wishes to you and yours from a soon to be rad tech in MS.
Sorry to see you go.
Xavier,
It will be a sad, sad day to see such a magnificent blog slide into the ether. But I must respect your choice.
I would request only that you endeavor to create a simple method to download/save as a PDF your blog in full. It has been both an inspiration and a reference to me over the years, and yours was always—and will continue to be—the best first blog for a new shooter.
I would also like to state that I have no doubt that your fans far out number whatever detractors you may have. Those who complain are always far louder than those who praise.
For what it's worth, your blog is the reason that I'm scrimping my pennies for a Colt Series 70 at this very moment. While I make no apologies whatsoever for loving my Sig Sauer, your blog turned me on to trying the "old man guns", as you have called them. After a few mags, I was hooked, and now I'm out to add a tried and true classic next to my effective, reliable, accurate, ergonomic, but now seemingly soulless wonder-nine.
Best of luck to you in all future endeavors, and may God bless you and yours.
- Scott
I thank you for the time that you have given me to enjoy your writings. Good luck, God speed and I hope that you can find another creative outlet that does not cause so much turmoil.
Thank you for your efforts; I have enjoyed your variety and photography very much.
Noel
I am so sorry to read this! I only recently began reading this blog and enjoyed it. Having been blogging for a while now, I can understand the impulse to throw in the towel and quit. I deleted my first blog recently myself.
You might want to reconsider...IF you actually enjoyed this blog. If it was really a burden then you should kill it. Either way. take care.
I'll always appreciate your extremely helpful writings on pawn shops, old smiths, shotguns, and a bunch of other assorted topics that seem to be more relevant by the day.
May your continue to have success and happiness in life.
Thank you.
Oh Noo! I love your blog, love the attitude and the articulate dialog on firearms. I'll miss not having you around to read,
Sorry the politics of some people got in your face and ruined this for the rest of us.
Please just go catch a breath.
Kick back for however long it takes to clean out the ashes.
We lurkers who never comment due to not wanting to embarrass ourselves will miss your great writing a lot.
Reading your posts I have learned a great deal of guns, photography, nursing, and conservative politics.
Sad to see you go Xavier, but I understand. Best wishes Sir.
X,
I'm sorry to hear you are hanging up the blog as I have always enjoyed it and was looking forward to reading more, especially about photography.
But, I have to say, if you aren't enjoying it, then, yeah, hanging it up may be the best thing to do. You have to write for yourself and if you aren't enjoying it, what's the point?
I would ask that you give more then just a couple days before you take everything down. There is a bunch of stuff I want to go through and save but, to be honest, I'm just not going to have time to dig through the archives until next week sometime.
You do have some good info here that I want to grab before you take it down, so if you'd consider my request as a favor, I'd appreciate it.
The blog will be missed, but in the end you have to do what's right by you.
Rob
Not right. We enjoy what you have to say, even though we may not say so as often as we might.
Hoping that the changing thingie is just a temporary angst issue. You find and talk about things that nobody else seems to notice.
Who cares if I don't find bicycles interesting? You other articles ... especially those which show us the dark side of medical care ... are Golden.
If you choose not to continue, we'll understand.
But we will be very, very disappointed.
Think about it for a while before you make any irrevocable decisions.
Okay?
I've been reading your blog for years, literally. As seems reasonable, I haven't found ALL of your articles to be appealing to my personal interests.
On the other hand, your articles are so well written and so demonstrative of your interests, I have not willingly failed to read everything you have to say, even those articles which are outside my too-narrow range of interest.
I am personally saddened to learn that you are not only contemplating the discontinuance of your blog, that this seems to be a decision which you have made for your own purposes.
Well, it's your blog and as I am a blog writer myself I can understand why the burden of maintaining a daily blog may become more than is bearable.
On the other hand, since your stated reason for quitting the blog is that you tire of dealing with uncivil readers ... I just want to remind you that there are a ton of readers who both enjoy and admire your work.
Maybe it's just that those who approve are not as likely to write and say "Hey, nice post!"
Maybe its just that those curmudgeons who only respond negatively outnumber the quiet, but mannerly majority are more vociferous.
But if the bottom line is that you don't feel appreciated, please take it from me that there is a significant portion of your leaders who not only enjoy, but respect your writing.
If you do indeed discontinue you blog you will end up disappoint those of us who may be defined as a "loyal audience".
We like you.
We really like you.
Sally Fields is scum; but we really like you.
Time to reconsider, and drive on ... or fade to the fondly-remembered list of lost bloggers such as Kim.
I Will miss your writing very much. Thank you for what you have written. If you start writing here again, or elsewhere, please let me know and I will come back to enjoy your prose.
I'm sorry to hear that. I have to say I will really miss this blog, it has been one of my favorites since it started.
See you at the 1911 forums
Stony
Oh no! Yours was a daily read of mine. Wish you could just turn off the ability to let folks comment or even send you a message. I'll miss your writing but you leave me a better informed person from the wealth of knowledge I've gained from your photography, bike and firearm posts.
Appreciate that you shared all this with us.
Brian
I am SO BUMMED. This is the worst news I've had all... day; can't go back much further than that since I guess the earthquake in Haiti trumps your blog-retirement in the "bad news" category. But not by as much as you might think.
I know, you aren't here to serve me and I can't really complain. But where else can I *go* to find amazing writing about three of my passions (2nd-amendment issues, nursing, and photography)? I am left stranded. My husband and I have started uncountable conversations with the line, "Did you see what Xavier posted today? Wow."
That said, I understand your reasons. Now I just have to find some kind of spider that will copy this entire blog onto my hard drive for easy reference whenever I want it. ;-)
Man. For me, that's too bad. I learned a lot here. For you, though, I'm sure it's right. Best of luck in the future.
Dan
Hate to see you go. I've learned a lot from you. Thanks for all you write, and I wish you the best.
Xavier,
Just got the word from Peter's place. Damn shame if you ask me, but it's your blog, your life, and you need to do what you need to do. It's especially sad that a few cretins have to make the rest of us suffer. Ah well, my Daddy always told me life wasn't fair.
You were one of the first "blogs" I started reading - I latched onto you, Lawdog and Tam from THR and TFL. I, too, am in the medical profession, and have an inordinate fondness for old S&W revolvers and 1911's. Needless to say, I devoured your archives, and checked in on you every day.
I enjoy your writing style. It has the clear, straightforward presentation of someone who is intelligent and literate enough to express their thoughts in a direct conversational manner. I think I would thoroughly enjoy sitting down to a beer with you.
I would ask one thing of you, and this requst may be echoed by others: please leave this URL as a placeholder with the material in your right-hand sidebar intact. The link lists are great, but some of your favorite articles on S&W revolvers and 1911's are too numerous to save easily, and too useful to go away forever. Ideally, you could leave your comlete archives as a reference.
I don't know how blog sites work compared to a stand-alone website. Blogger may not let you do any of this. I just know that you have amassed a considerable body of entertaining and informative work, and I hate to see it disappear.
Whatever you do, I thank you, wish you Godspeed, and if you ever retire, ask them if you can have your old on-call beeper (front sight, press...)
Take Care,
Rick
Sorry to read you are quiting but I can understand why, there are a bunch of idiots in this country and elsewhere also. I have enjoyed reading your missives these past years and would like to say thank you for your efforts. You will be missed.
Enjoy "retirement" and God Bless.
Dennis
I have only recently began reading some of the articles on your blog, and they have been excellent. It's a true shame that you will be shutting down this blog, but I can understand the reasons.
Best wishes for the future.
I will miss you but I can understand the frustration of dealing with people who object to you having an opinion.
Stay safe
1. Sorry to see you go.
2. Good run.
3. Thanks.
V/R JWest
I will miss reading about your finds and opinions. Nonetheless, Best Wishes!
Xavier:
I'm truly sorry to see you end your blog. I've had tremendous enjoyment reading it, and getting your opinions on the various things you've discussed. It's been fun to watch things morph from being "just" a firearms blog, through to your photography.
Please know that many like myself( usually just a lurker, but also an occasional commenter) will miss your presence on here on the Web.
I understand the tedium of dealing with the trolls and dunderheads, though, and can only wish you the best as you shut things down.
Thank you again for all of your posting...we'll miss your insights.
Your blog is one of the first I read every morning...I for one will certainly miss it...thanks for sharing your knowledge, insights, and inspiration.
H Stallard
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