This review is not only a product review but also includes a few comparisons to another product of the same type. But first, for full disclosure, my wife is a Mary Kay® Independent Beauty Consultant; however, I do NOT let her position influence my opinion on Mary Kay® products. Also, I have sensitive facial and neck skin. It took years for me to find a product I could use for shaving that would not cause rash, bumps, and irritation in general. Although it did leave me with a little rash, Edge® Shaving Gel for sensitive skin was the product I settled on and have been using for many years until my wife asked me to try the MKMen™ Shaving Foam.
Right from the start, I noticed a drastic difference. I noticed a difference in the quality of my shave after just the first use. With the first stroke of my razor, I could feel there was no resistance, and the razor seemed to glide over my cheek so smoothly I didn’t think the razor was cutting my stubble. I had to check the foam as I rinsed it off my razor, sure enough, I could see the cut stubble. At no time did it seem the razor was actually touching my skin and there was no hint of irritation. My shave was closer, smoother and my skin softer. My skin felt good, refreshed. And no red rash or irritation, I was impressed.
An added benefit is The MKMen™ Shaving Foam goes further; I use less than I did when using the Edge® Shaving Gel. Compared to the same size container or ounces used, the MKMen™ Shaving Foam has lasted about 4 times longer than the Edge®. Not a big deal at first since I was just testing the product and would be willing to spend more money on a product that doesn’t leave me with an irritated, red rash on my neck and sometimes my cheeks. But now it is a big deal, I like the MKMen™ Shaving Foam, so now cost is part of whether or not something is worth using and if it costs more is it worth the extra cost. After doing a closer look, pricing the two products versus how many shaves each products give for like quantity, the price is the same. MKMen™ Shaving Foam does cost more initially, because it is a 6.5 oz can but it goes 4 times further than the same amount of Edge® shaving gel so, in the long run, it costs less or about the same.
MKMen™ is also non-comedogenic and tested for skin irritancy and allergy.
And the bonus, MKMen™ Shaving Foam smells good, not chemically or perfumed like most shaving products.
To this day I am still using the MKMen™ Shaving Foam and I continually experience a better, smoother, closer and non-irritated shave. I will be reviewing other MKMen ™ products in the near future so be sure to check back or subscribe to my blog.
For more information about MKMen™ Shaving Foam or any MK products click the link below:
https://www.facebook.com/HayleyM.IBC/
The Rickster
Friday, February 8, 2019
Friday, January 11, 2019
King Ludwig’s Leavenworth, Washington
King Ludwig’s located in the Bavarian town of Leavenworth, Washington.
Following the themed town design, King Ludwig’s restaurant not only captures the appearance but also the “feel” of a true Bavarian restaurant. Offering authentic German Cuisine, music, dancing, and family dining, for a taste of Bavaria, King Ludwig’s is great.
I eat at King Ludwig's from time to time. I have always had good service, good food and a wonderful time. I usually go to King Ludwig’s during the week, avoiding the busy weekend crowds. I have had several different entrees but my favorite is the Gasthaus Platter of entrees and sides. The Leberkase (meatloaf) is tender and flavorful, as is the pork cutlets and veal cutlets. The tradition pork hock is a must; melt in your mouth wonderful. The Winekrut and Rotkrout add such smooth yet intense flavors to any of the entrées. The food presentation is mouth-watering, yet not overdone and phony looking like they are trying to be something they are not. It’s all about German food and their authentic cuisine is 5 stars.
The staff have always been very polite, helpful and understand especially when my visit is one of those “everything sounds so good, I don’t know what to order”. The restaurant itself is always clean, warm, and comfortable. I always recommend King Ludwig’s to friends and to anyone who stops me on the street and asks where is the best place to eat. King Ludwig’s is always at the top of my list. One of the more family-friendly restaurants in Leavenworth, Washington.
Add a little polka music from a talented accordion player, a dance area; everything is there for an exquisite “trip” to Bavaria while you eat. I have never been disappointed; King Ludwig’s has always done right by me.
The Rickster
Following the themed town design, King Ludwig’s restaurant not only captures the appearance but also the “feel” of a true Bavarian restaurant. Offering authentic German Cuisine, music, dancing, and family dining, for a taste of Bavaria, King Ludwig’s is great.
I eat at King Ludwig's from time to time. I have always had good service, good food and a wonderful time. I usually go to King Ludwig’s during the week, avoiding the busy weekend crowds. I have had several different entrees but my favorite is the Gasthaus Platter of entrees and sides. The Leberkase (meatloaf) is tender and flavorful, as is the pork cutlets and veal cutlets. The tradition pork hock is a must; melt in your mouth wonderful. The Winekrut and Rotkrout add such smooth yet intense flavors to any of the entrées. The food presentation is mouth-watering, yet not overdone and phony looking like they are trying to be something they are not. It’s all about German food and their authentic cuisine is 5 stars.
The staff have always been very polite, helpful and understand especially when my visit is one of those “everything sounds so good, I don’t know what to order”. The restaurant itself is always clean, warm, and comfortable. I always recommend King Ludwig’s to friends and to anyone who stops me on the street and asks where is the best place to eat. King Ludwig’s is always at the top of my list. One of the more family-friendly restaurants in Leavenworth, Washington.
Add a little polka music from a talented accordion player, a dance area; everything is there for an exquisite “trip” to Bavaria while you eat. I have never been disappointed; King Ludwig’s has always done right by me.
The Rickster
Thursday, January 10, 2019
Applebee’s The Great Let Down
Applee’s Restaurant in Wenatchee, WA, 6:30pm, mid-week. Right from the start, we were disappointed. Due to a recent injury, my wife had to use a walker to get around. The parking lot, although it had been plowed due to a recent snowstorm, some of the parking for “disability” was a snow berm. I thought not a big deal they have to put the snow somewhere but of all places to put the snow, why put it in parking meant for people who have issues getting around. If that wasn’t bad enough, the snow berm, covered the only walkway to the cement walk for wheelchair accessibility without having to go up over a curb. Okay, fine, so whoever did the plowing didn’t know what they were doing, or didn’t realize what they were doing. Either way, if a person wheelchair or walker or crutches bound had no choice but to lift themselves over the curb to get to the walkway. Thankfully, the walkway close to the restaurant front doors was plowed/shoved and de-iced.
The hostess greeting us was nice, polite, warm, and friendly. Seeing my wife was using a walker, the hostess did think to ask if the two stairs getting to the dining area was an issue and if so, she would lead us to the ramp allowing easy access to the dining area. As we were being seated, it became evident the music was unusually loud and people in the restaurant were talking loud, having to talk over the music. Loud enough, when the waitress was taking our order, she had to raise her voice to inform us of the specials and again when she repeated back confirming our order. My wife and I had to raise our voices to tell the waitress what we wanted for drinks, appetizers, and entrees.
Onion ring appetizers, some of the best onion rings I’ve had at any restaurant. Lightly breaded, not over breaded like most, cooked thoroughly, not hard or mushy but firm, however, the onion rings were lacking in flavor. The number of onion rings was good, not enough to make a meal on but just enough to split between two people and not ruin our appetite for the main meal.
The entrees; barbequed riblets and shrimp. The ribs were moist, tender, and flavorful. The barbeque sauce was good, offering a hint of several spices with no spice being predominate or leaving an overpowering after taste. The shrimp were of decent size, 1 1/2 inches to 2 inches long, full of flavor and moist, not overcooked or dry like so many restaurants serve. The shrimp actually tasted like shrimp with a hint of seasoning unlike so many dishes with shrimp, no flavor other than the seasoning.
The best time to try both out is when Applebee’s is running the all you can eat special for riblets, chicken tenders, and shrimp. You are not restricted to just one or the other, you can have some of all three.
The Rickster
The hostess greeting us was nice, polite, warm, and friendly. Seeing my wife was using a walker, the hostess did think to ask if the two stairs getting to the dining area was an issue and if so, she would lead us to the ramp allowing easy access to the dining area. As we were being seated, it became evident the music was unusually loud and people in the restaurant were talking loud, having to talk over the music. Loud enough, when the waitress was taking our order, she had to raise her voice to inform us of the specials and again when she repeated back confirming our order. My wife and I had to raise our voices to tell the waitress what we wanted for drinks, appetizers, and entrees.
Onion ring appetizers, some of the best onion rings I’ve had at any restaurant. Lightly breaded, not over breaded like most, cooked thoroughly, not hard or mushy but firm, however, the onion rings were lacking in flavor. The number of onion rings was good, not enough to make a meal on but just enough to split between two people and not ruin our appetite for the main meal.
The entrees; barbequed riblets and shrimp. The ribs were moist, tender, and flavorful. The barbeque sauce was good, offering a hint of several spices with no spice being predominate or leaving an overpowering after taste. The shrimp were of decent size, 1 1/2 inches to 2 inches long, full of flavor and moist, not overcooked or dry like so many restaurants serve. The shrimp actually tasted like shrimp with a hint of seasoning unlike so many dishes with shrimp, no flavor other than the seasoning.
The best time to try both out is when Applebee’s is running the all you can eat special for riblets, chicken tenders, and shrimp. You are not restricted to just one or the other, you can have some of all three.
The Rickster
Tuesday, November 13, 2018
Ducks and Drakes Leavenworth, Washington
Ducks and Drakes, good food, good beer, love the outside eating area. A great sports bar in Leavenworth, Washington.
I've been Ducks and Drakes a couple of times and it's been a good experience. I like their Flame-Broiled Bratwurst served with homemade kraut. The bratwurst had good flavor, moist, not dried out like I've had at other places. Ducks and Drakes' homemade kraut is excellent. The kraut is some of the best I have ever tasted, especially from a restaurant. Their hamburgers are juicy, flavorful, and filling and they don't skimp on the french fries.
Ducks and Drakes offer indoor and outdoor seating as well as orders to go.
Service has always been good, sometimes a little slow if it's a busy night but the great conversation goes a long way. The waiter/waitress has always been warm and friendly. And never in a rush to get away yet don't overstay their welcome. Again, a great conversation goes a long way.
Price is decent, not super overpriced like some places in town but maybe a little more expensive than some sports bars. During festivals and big game days, Ducks and Drakes become a full-on sports bar. Lively, warm, friendly, entertaining atmosphere.
The Rickster
I've been Ducks and Drakes a couple of times and it's been a good experience. I like their Flame-Broiled Bratwurst served with homemade kraut. The bratwurst had good flavor, moist, not dried out like I've had at other places. Ducks and Drakes' homemade kraut is excellent. The kraut is some of the best I have ever tasted, especially from a restaurant. Their hamburgers are juicy, flavorful, and filling and they don't skimp on the french fries.
Ducks and Drakes offer indoor and outdoor seating as well as orders to go.
Service has always been good, sometimes a little slow if it's a busy night but the great conversation goes a long way. The waiter/waitress has always been warm and friendly. And never in a rush to get away yet don't overstay their welcome. Again, a great conversation goes a long way.
Price is decent, not super overpriced like some places in town but maybe a little more expensive than some sports bars. During festivals and big game days, Ducks and Drakes become a full-on sports bar. Lively, warm, friendly, entertaining atmosphere.
The Rickster
Thursday, October 18, 2018
Headwaters Bar and Restaurant Leavenworth, WA
Headwaters is an iconic “local” bar/pub/pool hall combined with a pizzeria; located close to Lake Wenatchee, Washington. Small hometown feel, cheerful, and humorous conversations. Headwaters is very popular with the locals and repeat tourists to the area. The pizza never disappoints, although, in the pricey range for pizza (but not for bar food), the pizza always tastes great. If you like leftover pizza, be sure to order the large size, Headwaters' pizza is some of the best leftover pizza I've enjoyed.
Don't let the outside appearance fool you, ignore the peeling paint on the building, the inside is clean and well kept although it's obvious the building is old.
Great food, they serve alcoholic beverages, decent prices, and great customer interaction. Nice place to shoot pool or watch a game.
The Rickster
Don't let the outside appearance fool you, ignore the peeling paint on the building, the inside is clean and well kept although it's obvious the building is old.
Great food, they serve alcoholic beverages, decent prices, and great customer interaction. Nice place to shoot pool or watch a game.
The Rickster
Tuesday, August 28, 2018
Toshi’s Teriyaki, Everett, Washington
Located in a little strip mall off Everett Mall Way, Toshi’s is easy to miss if you don’t look closely. The food had good flavor and was warm to hot, not piping hot in temperature, but we enjoyed the food. We had the teriyaki chicken and have to say it was some of the best we have had throughout the year. The restaurant was clean and the aroma of teriyaki was enticing. The staff was friendly and worked happily.
The Rickster
Friday, August 17, 2018
The Cove Resort Fish Lake
The Cove Resort, Fish Lake, Plain, Leavenworth, Washington. The Cove is located on Fish Lake, only a few miles from Lake Wenatchee about 30 minutes Northeast of Leavenworth WA.
I remember coming here as a kid, now 40 years later, still a favorite place to go. Our kids loved going to The Cove for fishing and camping and they too still visit The Cove. The staff and owners are always friendly and helpful. Campsites, dock, and the store are always clean. The owners promote a friendly and family-oriented atmosphere. Spend a few bucks and fish from the dock for the day, rent a boat or camp for a few days, several options to choose from. When you're done fishing for the day or taking a break, there is a fish cleaning station for your use. Have your own boat? The Cove also has a boat launch.
The Cove is about family and friends. The cost of fishing from their dock or launching your boat is very inexpensive. The Cove’s owners want you, your family and friends to have fun, that’s what it’s all about. It is truly still the same "old-time" family lake resort.
The Rickster
I remember coming here as a kid, now 40 years later, still a favorite place to go. Our kids loved going to The Cove for fishing and camping and they too still visit The Cove. The staff and owners are always friendly and helpful. Campsites, dock, and the store are always clean. The owners promote a friendly and family-oriented atmosphere. Spend a few bucks and fish from the dock for the day, rent a boat or camp for a few days, several options to choose from. When you're done fishing for the day or taking a break, there is a fish cleaning station for your use. Have your own boat? The Cove also has a boat launch.
The Cove is about family and friends. The cost of fishing from their dock or launching your boat is very inexpensive. The Cove’s owners want you, your family and friends to have fun, that’s what it’s all about. It is truly still the same "old-time" family lake resort.
The Rickster
Thursday, July 26, 2018
Wok ‘N Roll Asian Express Wenatchee, Washington
The Wok ‘N Roll is located in a strip mall at fifth and Mission in Wenatchee, Washington.
The Wok 'N Roll serves up the best Chinese food in the Wenatchee Valley. The food is always hot, fresh, and full of flavor. Eat-in or take out. Fair warning, there is not a lot of seating in the restaurant but the tables have never been full when we have been to the Wok 'N Roll. We normally spend about $40 but we have enough leftovers for lunch or dinner the next day.
We have noticed, at least it appears, most of the customers get take out. Whatever your favorite Chinese entrée is, I'm sure you will enjoy theirs the best. If you order the Honey Walnut Shrimp entrée (which is delicious) there is a small upcharge but well worth the couple bucks more.
The Wok ‘N Roll also has a small sushi bar. I’m not into sushi, but my son who is, likes their sushi, said it’s some of the best he’s had outside of Asia.
Everyone we have taken to the Wok 'N Roll has loved it and have returned many times as have we. Service is great, food tastes great and the place is very clean. Highly recommend the Wok 'N Roll.
The Rickster
The Wok 'N Roll serves up the best Chinese food in the Wenatchee Valley. The food is always hot, fresh, and full of flavor. Eat-in or take out. Fair warning, there is not a lot of seating in the restaurant but the tables have never been full when we have been to the Wok 'N Roll. We normally spend about $40 but we have enough leftovers for lunch or dinner the next day.
We have noticed, at least it appears, most of the customers get take out. Whatever your favorite Chinese entrée is, I'm sure you will enjoy theirs the best. If you order the Honey Walnut Shrimp entrée (which is delicious) there is a small upcharge but well worth the couple bucks more.
The Wok ‘N Roll also has a small sushi bar. I’m not into sushi, but my son who is, likes their sushi, said it’s some of the best he’s had outside of Asia.
Everyone we have taken to the Wok 'N Roll has loved it and have returned many times as have we. Service is great, food tastes great and the place is very clean. Highly recommend the Wok 'N Roll.
The Rickster
Tuesday, April 10, 2018
Harvest Valley Pest Control Wenatchee Valley
Do yourself a favor and call Harvest Valley Pest Control first! Excellent Service, Professional, Friendly, Personable.
Our house is located in the Lake Wenatchee, Plain, Leavenworth Upper Valley area. We called Harvest Valley Pest Control after witnessing the owner of another company do a poor job of inspecting our house.
The first company, the owner did not put on coveralls, gloves, or shoe covers for the house inspection because he never crawled under the house for a close look. The company owner stood, peering into the crawl shining his light around under the house, yet reported the house had termites. Then the owner issued an extremely high bid to do the work.
The owner of Harvest Valley Pest Control downed shoe covers, coveralls, gloves, and a hat and then crawled under the house to do the inspection. The owner explained what he was doing, what he was looking for and ways to prevent attracting insects. There is a charge for the inspection, but it is applied to the charge for any pest control work done. The owner was open and honest about the need verse risk; so honest even said it would be a waste for us to have any work done, as we had no problems or signs of possible problems. I highly recommend Harvest Valley Pest Control for any of your pest control needs.
The Rickster
Our house is located in the Lake Wenatchee, Plain, Leavenworth Upper Valley area. We called Harvest Valley Pest Control after witnessing the owner of another company do a poor job of inspecting our house.
The first company, the owner did not put on coveralls, gloves, or shoe covers for the house inspection because he never crawled under the house for a close look. The company owner stood, peering into the crawl shining his light around under the house, yet reported the house had termites. Then the owner issued an extremely high bid to do the work.
The owner of Harvest Valley Pest Control downed shoe covers, coveralls, gloves, and a hat and then crawled under the house to do the inspection. The owner explained what he was doing, what he was looking for and ways to prevent attracting insects. There is a charge for the inspection, but it is applied to the charge for any pest control work done. The owner was open and honest about the need verse risk; so honest even said it would be a waste for us to have any work done, as we had no problems or signs of possible problems. I highly recommend Harvest Valley Pest Control for any of your pest control needs.
The Rickster
Monday, November 6, 2017
Pierce's Pitt Bar-B-Que, VA
Customer service was top notch! A nice touch was reviewing our order as they bagged it up for us. Building was clean, well kept and smelled wonderful!
The food was great! We had the BBQ pork, BBQ chicken, potato salad and coleslaw. I tend to prefer BBQ sauce on the sweet side, but Pierce's is obviously vinegar based, which I thought was great. Great flavor, good meat (not filled with fat or grisly) and quantity is well worth the price. Next time we are in VA, we will stop by again.
The Rickster
Friday, July 14, 2017
Springfield Armory XD-E
Springfield Armory’s new “external hammer” handgun, the XDE. At a quick glance, it could be mistaken for the XDS, until a closer look reveals there is a hammer, it is not a striker-fired handgun. Whether you are “old school” like me or someone who prefers a striker fire pistol, if you remove all bias and preconceptions, most will agree the XDE is… yes, totally awesome.
Filling the gap
Springfield has produced a sleek, well balanced, medium weight, compact, conceal carry pistol… with an external hammer! Call me “old school” but I do prefer an external hammer rather than a striker fire; that being said, let's take a look at what I found with the XDE.
Back Story
My wife normally carries an S&W/PPK however, because of her arthritis, the slide has become too hard for her to operate. We had been looking at several models for her, after visiting several gun shops, the only handgun she could operate the slide on was the PK380.
As for me, I wanted a new gun. Please note, I did say “wanted” not “needed” a new gun. I was handling, several models, Glock 29, PK380, M&P Shield, and a few others that I immediately set down because of the feel in my hand.
One shop to check out, our favorite, but sometimes their stock is low at least for guns we have been interested in. As we stood at the counter, my wife and I were looking at what was on display. When the salesman heard we were looking at getting a new gun for my wife and the reason why; he immediately showed us the XDE.
The XDE.
SA/DA, hammer-fired, 9+1 or 8+1 magazines (one each comes with a new XDE), ambidextrous safety and magazine release, de-cocker, single stack, polymer frame, dovetail rear sight with fiber optic front sight, textured grip and L.E.S (Low Effort Slide), overall length: 6.75 inches, height: 5 inches and the width: 1 inch.
The XDE in my wife’s hand.
My wife racked the slide, once, twice, three times, and kept going. After racking it six times she turned to me smiling, She loved the feel and fit in her hand, racked the slide not just easily but with no pain (obviously very important).
The thumb safety.
To our surprise.. ambidextrous, easy to reach, and operate. Safety lever all the way up, safety is on, slide down, fire mode, push down again, gun de-cocks and stays in fire mode but double action. A big difference from what both of us are used to, for us, safety and de-cocking happen at the same time with the same lever. The XD-E can be “cocked and locked”. Mean you can put the safety on with the hammer pulled back, or you can "lever" down, de-cocking, and leaving the safety off if your situation warrants this position.
The magazine release.
Again ambidextrous, and in the traditional location; down and back of the trigger. Immediately, my wife was thumbing between mag release and the different positions of the safety lever and smiling.
The slide release.
Left side only but not a big deal considering after popping in a filled magazine, pull back on the slide just a little, release, and it springs forwarding chambering a round, leaving the gun in SA mod. No need for a slide release for self-defense. Please note, chambering can be done with the safety on or off.
The slide, is one of the easiest I have ever pulled other than maybe the PK380 but I have a couple issues with the PK380, still an ok gun though. If anyone has arthritis or any issues with their hands/fingers, they should consider the XDE. – The Rickster
The results
My wife bought the Springfield Armory XDE.
The true test, shooting the XDE.
Shooting
One hundred - fifty rounds by each of us of each: Winchester 115 grain FMJ, American Eagle 115 grain FMJ, Speer Lawman 124 grain TMJ. The XDE chewed through the ammo, not a single fail. Accuracy with no sight adjustments: 3 inches, 2.25 inch, and 1.75 inches respectively of the ammo type. I am not saying one ammo type is or worked better, I believe the difference was my wife getting to know her new XDE.
Trigger
If a person has big or small hands, the reach for the trigger seems to come in a natural position/reach. For my wife and I, no problem, in fact, the trigger reach was comfortable and natural for us. In double-action, the trigger pull is listed 10 to 12 pounds, I think it is closer to 10 pounds. In single action, the tripper pull is listed 4 to 5 pounds, I think it is closer to 4. In either S/A or D/A, the trigger has a smooth, comfortable pull.
Balance
For my wife and I, the balance loaded and unloaded, was very natural, on the draw, and coming up to sight in the target, very natural, smooth, and comfortable.
Grip
For our hands, the grip is comfortable and not too thick or bulky. A slight finger contour gives increased comfort, control, and balance. Definitely, something to mention is the beavertail contour, it is smooth and extremely comfortable for the shooter.
Recoil
I can only compare the recoil with the guns I have fired, I am not going to go with the techy stuff since I know most of us will relate to a comparison. Keep in mind, this is how the results felt to me using the ammo listed above.
XDE vs Smith and Wesson 915 (all metal, alloy frame), XDE 20-25% less
XDE vs S&W/Walther PPK380 (all steel) XDE 30% less
XDE vs Glock 19 9mm (polymer frame) XDE 25% less
XDE vs Glock 29 10mm (polymer frame) XDE 30-35% less
XDE vs Kimber 1911 45ACP (all steel) XDE 30% less
Recommendation
I ordered my XDE the following day of shooting, I pick it up in a few days. Yes, I would recommend the XDE for the novice and the expert shooter. As a conceal carry, I believe it is a good size, not too heavy (25 oz.), the design and finish of the hammer will not be a concern as a CCP. As a range gun, I found the XDE fun to shoot, comfortable; even after 150 rounds the beavertail design and contour left no wear and tear on my hand as some other guns have done.
Feel free to leave comments and please follow me for more reviews.
The Rickster
#concealcarry #Springfield #XDE
Filling the gap
Springfield has produced a sleek, well balanced, medium weight, compact, conceal carry pistol… with an external hammer! Call me “old school” but I do prefer an external hammer rather than a striker fire; that being said, let's take a look at what I found with the XDE.
Back Story
My wife normally carries an S&W/PPK however, because of her arthritis, the slide has become too hard for her to operate. We had been looking at several models for her, after visiting several gun shops, the only handgun she could operate the slide on was the PK380.
As for me, I wanted a new gun. Please note, I did say “wanted” not “needed” a new gun. I was handling, several models, Glock 29, PK380, M&P Shield, and a few others that I immediately set down because of the feel in my hand.
One shop to check out, our favorite, but sometimes their stock is low at least for guns we have been interested in. As we stood at the counter, my wife and I were looking at what was on display. When the salesman heard we were looking at getting a new gun for my wife and the reason why; he immediately showed us the XDE.
The XDE.
SA/DA, hammer-fired, 9+1 or 8+1 magazines (one each comes with a new XDE), ambidextrous safety and magazine release, de-cocker, single stack, polymer frame, dovetail rear sight with fiber optic front sight, textured grip and L.E.S (Low Effort Slide), overall length: 6.75 inches, height: 5 inches and the width: 1 inch.
The XDE in my wife’s hand.
My wife racked the slide, once, twice, three times, and kept going. After racking it six times she turned to me smiling, She loved the feel and fit in her hand, racked the slide not just easily but with no pain (obviously very important).
The thumb safety.
To our surprise.. ambidextrous, easy to reach, and operate. Safety lever all the way up, safety is on, slide down, fire mode, push down again, gun de-cocks and stays in fire mode but double action. A big difference from what both of us are used to, for us, safety and de-cocking happen at the same time with the same lever. The XD-E can be “cocked and locked”. Mean you can put the safety on with the hammer pulled back, or you can "lever" down, de-cocking, and leaving the safety off if your situation warrants this position.
The magazine release.
Again ambidextrous, and in the traditional location; down and back of the trigger. Immediately, my wife was thumbing between mag release and the different positions of the safety lever and smiling.
The slide release.
Left side only but not a big deal considering after popping in a filled magazine, pull back on the slide just a little, release, and it springs forwarding chambering a round, leaving the gun in SA mod. No need for a slide release for self-defense. Please note, chambering can be done with the safety on or off.
The slide, is one of the easiest I have ever pulled other than maybe the PK380 but I have a couple issues with the PK380, still an ok gun though. If anyone has arthritis or any issues with their hands/fingers, they should consider the XDE. – The Rickster
The results
My wife bought the Springfield Armory XDE.
The true test, shooting the XDE.
Shooting
One hundred - fifty rounds by each of us of each: Winchester 115 grain FMJ, American Eagle 115 grain FMJ, Speer Lawman 124 grain TMJ. The XDE chewed through the ammo, not a single fail. Accuracy with no sight adjustments: 3 inches, 2.25 inch, and 1.75 inches respectively of the ammo type. I am not saying one ammo type is or worked better, I believe the difference was my wife getting to know her new XDE.
Trigger
If a person has big or small hands, the reach for the trigger seems to come in a natural position/reach. For my wife and I, no problem, in fact, the trigger reach was comfortable and natural for us. In double-action, the trigger pull is listed 10 to 12 pounds, I think it is closer to 10 pounds. In single action, the tripper pull is listed 4 to 5 pounds, I think it is closer to 4. In either S/A or D/A, the trigger has a smooth, comfortable pull.
Balance
For my wife and I, the balance loaded and unloaded, was very natural, on the draw, and coming up to sight in the target, very natural, smooth, and comfortable.
Grip
For our hands, the grip is comfortable and not too thick or bulky. A slight finger contour gives increased comfort, control, and balance. Definitely, something to mention is the beavertail contour, it is smooth and extremely comfortable for the shooter.
Recoil
I can only compare the recoil with the guns I have fired, I am not going to go with the techy stuff since I know most of us will relate to a comparison. Keep in mind, this is how the results felt to me using the ammo listed above.
XDE vs Smith and Wesson 915 (all metal, alloy frame), XDE 20-25% less
XDE vs S&W/Walther PPK380 (all steel) XDE 30% less
XDE vs Glock 19 9mm (polymer frame) XDE 25% less
XDE vs Glock 29 10mm (polymer frame) XDE 30-35% less
XDE vs Kimber 1911 45ACP (all steel) XDE 30% less
Recommendation
I ordered my XDE the following day of shooting, I pick it up in a few days. Yes, I would recommend the XDE for the novice and the expert shooter. As a conceal carry, I believe it is a good size, not too heavy (25 oz.), the design and finish of the hammer will not be a concern as a CCP. As a range gun, I found the XDE fun to shoot, comfortable; even after 150 rounds the beavertail design and contour left no wear and tear on my hand as some other guns have done.
Feel free to leave comments and please follow me for more reviews.
The Rickster
#concealcarry #Springfield #XDE
Sunday, November 13, 2016
Bob’s Burgers and Brews East Wenatchee, WA
Our first time to Bob's Burgers and Brews. It was awesome! None of this 1/4 lb. burgers, Bob's hamburger patties are 6 oz! Even the double patty burgers are 6 oz. per patty. Quantity of food, well, there is a reason for "to-go boxes".
At first glance, the prices seemed a little high but once we got our food, we understood. No one in town has food that tastes as good or serves the large quantity Bob's does. It took a while to decide what to get, everything on the menu looked so good.
Another nice "feature" is you can choose your side that comes with your meal; fries, onion rings (small upcharge $1), dinner salad, potato salad. I had onion rings and they were great. Lightly battered compared to others and not full of grease.
The staff were very polite, checked on us regularly to make sure everything was good, or if there was something else we needed. Nice atmosphere, warm, friendly, and inviting. The quantity of food, flavor, options, and service, well worth the money. We were not disappointed at all.
The Rickster
At first glance, the prices seemed a little high but once we got our food, we understood. No one in town has food that tastes as good or serves the large quantity Bob's does. It took a while to decide what to get, everything on the menu looked so good.
Another nice "feature" is you can choose your side that comes with your meal; fries, onion rings (small upcharge $1), dinner salad, potato salad. I had onion rings and they were great. Lightly battered compared to others and not full of grease.
The staff were very polite, checked on us regularly to make sure everything was good, or if there was something else we needed. Nice atmosphere, warm, friendly, and inviting. The quantity of food, flavor, options, and service, well worth the money. We were not disappointed at all.
The Rickster
Maymont Manor Mansion–Park Richmond, VA
Maymont Manor Mansion and Park is not just a historic site. The Mansion is much the way it was when the original owners passed away and left the Mansion to the city of Richmond, Virginia in 1925.
Whether you are a history buff, someone who appreciates fine craftsmanship, a collector of antiques, or love elegance, the Mansion tour is a must! The grounds sport several gardens containing a lot of original trees, bushes, and flowers planted in the late 1800s and early 1900s.
With 100 acres to explore, I recommend planning on spending the whole day. A lot of walking is involved but there is plenty of open fields and benches here and there to take a break if you need to. If you are not up for a lot of walking, there are several parking lots located around the park to get you close as possible to your desired entrance.
Sounds expensive? It's not! Upon entering the park, there is a request for a donation, a suggestion of $5 per person. The same donation is suggested for touring inside the Maymont Mansion.
This is not a historical site as with many places in VA; it is not the site of a major Civil War battle or the home of a former president. The mansion was one of the first homes in the state with electricity and indoor plumbing and was built in the late 1800s.
The mansion contains original furniture, fixtures, china, clothing; not items that were brought in because they were popular for the era and may have been used by Mr. and Mrs. James Dooley (original owners/builders). And that to me is a big part of what made the experience so great. We were looking at items from the late 1800s to early 1900s that were actually used by the Dooleys.
Being of great wealth, the Dooleys had access to items only societies elite could afford. The craftsmanship of all the woodwork, done by hand (remember the era) and hand paintings on the ceilings are unbelievable. Even our 10-year-old granddaughter was amazed and extremely intrigued by the tour and the information given to us by Susan S. our tour guide.
The park is a work of art in itself. Cement pillars and blocks, cobblestone, numerous water features, and gazebos; exotic trees, bushes, flowers, and herbs throughout the park even including a rose bush planted in 1911. Most of the plant life was brought into the country by the Dooleys from many of their trips to Europe. We are talking plants over 100 years old, not just trees!
And don't forget to stop by the petting zoo for the kids. There are a few outbuildings including the stables and carriage house. Sorry, but no, the animals in the zoo are not 100 years old.
Remember, to tour the mansion you have to sign up in the little gift shop in the basement of the mansion. Also, once you spend the time, think about donating again. It is very inexpensive yet loaded with information, entertainment, and breathtaking sites. Visiting Maymont Mansion and park was the best we experienced during our VA vacation.
The Rickster
Whether you are a history buff, someone who appreciates fine craftsmanship, a collector of antiques, or love elegance, the Mansion tour is a must! The grounds sport several gardens containing a lot of original trees, bushes, and flowers planted in the late 1800s and early 1900s.
With 100 acres to explore, I recommend planning on spending the whole day. A lot of walking is involved but there is plenty of open fields and benches here and there to take a break if you need to. If you are not up for a lot of walking, there are several parking lots located around the park to get you close as possible to your desired entrance.
Sounds expensive? It's not! Upon entering the park, there is a request for a donation, a suggestion of $5 per person. The same donation is suggested for touring inside the Maymont Mansion.
This is not a historical site as with many places in VA; it is not the site of a major Civil War battle or the home of a former president. The mansion was one of the first homes in the state with electricity and indoor plumbing and was built in the late 1800s.
The mansion contains original furniture, fixtures, china, clothing; not items that were brought in because they were popular for the era and may have been used by Mr. and Mrs. James Dooley (original owners/builders). And that to me is a big part of what made the experience so great. We were looking at items from the late 1800s to early 1900s that were actually used by the Dooleys.
Being of great wealth, the Dooleys had access to items only societies elite could afford. The craftsmanship of all the woodwork, done by hand (remember the era) and hand paintings on the ceilings are unbelievable. Even our 10-year-old granddaughter was amazed and extremely intrigued by the tour and the information given to us by Susan S. our tour guide.
The park is a work of art in itself. Cement pillars and blocks, cobblestone, numerous water features, and gazebos; exotic trees, bushes, flowers, and herbs throughout the park even including a rose bush planted in 1911. Most of the plant life was brought into the country by the Dooleys from many of their trips to Europe. We are talking plants over 100 years old, not just trees!
And don't forget to stop by the petting zoo for the kids. There are a few outbuildings including the stables and carriage house. Sorry, but no, the animals in the zoo are not 100 years old.
Remember, to tour the mansion you have to sign up in the little gift shop in the basement of the mansion. Also, once you spend the time, think about donating again. It is very inexpensive yet loaded with information, entertainment, and breathtaking sites. Visiting Maymont Mansion and park was the best we experienced during our VA vacation.
The Rickster
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