32 replies to this topic

[Doug Richardson]

I don’t get it. Granted, I am not of the computer generation. Madalon takes care of all the E-mail except for the occasions when I want to address some subject. Then she sets up the computer for me and I type (I’ve learned how to do that) what I want to say. I have no clue as to how to send it. She takes over at that point. What I don’t understand is why people don’t use their real names. My name is Doug Richardson. It is not “Tguy”, “21Nut”, MGCrazy”, “Blasterman”, or any other such alias I might think up. If you hear from me, you hear from Doug Richardson. There is no confusion. On the other hand, the use by others of code names causes me a lot of confusion. Someone will write me several E-mails about a subject and sign them “Chopperdude” or something and the call me or write me giving me their name as “John Williams” or something and then expect me to relate the two names and continue the discussion. Quite frankly, I rather like the Thompson enthusiasts. They all seem like interesting people. I like hearing what they have to say, but it makes it a lot more enjoyable to me when a real name is attached. After a while I get to know the various people. After all, we are sort of a family aren’t we. Except for each other, who would put up with us. So what’s the deal? Why the secrecy? Are people afraid of being criticized for what they say? I think everyone has something interesting to say and ideas to offer. Someone explain this to me. Signed: “Cybermoron” (formerly Doug Richardson)

[giantpanda4]

Good idea Doug,

It is easy for all of us to add our names in the signature section below like this:

[ThompsonCrazy]

Testing...Testing

[Arthur Fliegenheimer]

Dour R,
I think the creative handles have something to do with the origin of this quote:

"I won't bad mouth your 1921 Colt Thompson collector specials, and I ask that you collectors extend the same courtesy to us new Thompson owners. What do you say?" A. Harris

[Bob]

Ok Doug...how 'bout this!

[The1930sRust]

The anonimity people seem to prefer in this online world began long before this board was even created. It likely grew out of the email address protocol created by Al Gore. Plus, there are a lot of preverts out there who think they can hide behind fake email addresses and the like. (Oh, the power of the subpoena). Sometime, I suppose, people of the internet generation (those who have not had it thrust upon them like my parents--and Doug) like to have fun with "handles" (like the CB craze..no one ever used there real names then either). And hey, Arnold Harris of Mount Horeb WI used his real name. Take your mask off, please, Arthur Fliegenheimer...

Oh, and all of you please do go and fill in your personal profile information. Don't worry about Big Brother reading it and coming to get your guns. They already know where they are anyway...

[hawksnest]

big brother may know who I am but house burglars don't know my name and address.

[Walter63a]

I tend to agree with hawksnest. I think most of the regular nembers of this board are probably decent enough guys. What worries me is the anonymous guest lurkers out there who never comment on anything (sometimes there are 10-15 regular members and 20 anonymous guest lurkers ). What I say is, "of course I could give you my exact name and address, but then I'd have to kill you!" Seriously though, I really don't want to advertise for all the burglars, perverts and scum out there. Regards, Walter

[Bill in VA]

First, I'm not taking anything as a flame, but when I first got into some of the online boards, I was worried about someone "tracking me down" and robbing me. Now I know better. It's not too difficult to come with a name from an IP number and then google the name. If someone's dead-set that they're going to try to rob me, they will try. As for my handle, I never considered myself "hiding." My name is Bill (Grose) and I do live in Virginia, hence the name. Since then, I've just stuck with it. Moreover, if someone legitimately wants to get in touch with, all they have to do is shoot me an email and ask how. As to burglars, I'm not too terribly worried. I have good homeowner's and collectibles insurance, an alarm system, two dogs, a dedicated secure gun room, plus a gun safe and a .38 revolver (that does not reside in the safe.)

[ThompsonCrazy]

Bravo Bill!!! Well said. I have a very similiar .38 SPL., Official Police of course, since it is C&R worthy.

[TAB]

I'm not interested in possibly exposing my hobbies to PC employers who did a simple google search on my name. PK can vouch for my honor, if not my lovely patience and personality. As can two other members of this board.

[TommyGunner]

Well I guess I cannot hide behind my website registration forever!

George Damon Gulick....but I go by Damon.

You would have to be a fool to rob a gun collector, especiall knowing full well what you are up against. As for Big Brother...I am not flying under the radar.

Be well,
Damon

[Walter63a]

I could treat any uninvited guests to thirty rounds of .45 acp just before handing over my 1927A1. However, I like my Persian rug the color it is and I hate unnecessary paperwork! In New York State, you would likely be sued if the perp. survived his home invasion excursion. Also, the way the liberals have written and interpreted NYS law, the victim of a home invasion or burglary, would likely be charged with manslaughter, if the perp. died. The burden of proof would then be upon the innocent homeowner to prove he was acting in self-defense, because he feared he was in imminent danger of grevious bodily harm or death (or a family member was). Sometimes discretion is the better part of valor! Regards, Walter

Don't get me wrong; I will defend myself and my family, but I would not seek out such a situation, nor make one more likely.

[Phil Askew]

I have to agree with Doug. I sell a lot of parts and feel most people are comfortable if they know who they are dealing with. I have met a lot of guys on this board and this is one of the most friendly and knowledgeable groups I have ever had dealings with. I can understand some of your concerns with online lurkers , but its just not that hard to find anybody anymore.

[TommyGunner]

Walter,

I agree completely! The situation of which you speak makes the hair stand up on the back of my neck. It would be a sad day to be forced into such a desperate condition where one would have to deadly force to defend ones life or a family members, and risk ones own freedom for having the means to do so. I hope none of us would be unfortunate enough to be in such a situation.

Damon

[TommyGunner]

Also, just did a google search for my name and NOTHING! Must not be important enough. Ah blessed obscurity.

Damon

[full auto 45]

Oh, but they will have a deadly weapon in their hands before the police arrive. Even the bullets in it would have their prints on them! And Walter, they won't be appearing in court to testify. .45ACP makes a terrible mess of things and I know a "Mr. Clean" that does the house cleaning for insurance companies.

[Walter63a]

Sir Mike, I hear you, "family comes first." I've read that book too. Stay well, Walter

[TAB]

Do a google on Fliegenheimer, Damon. It has little to do with importance, rather more uniqueness.

[Pa Deuce]

Doug,
I have had no adverse experience that makes me "hide" behind a made-up name. My name signifies my latest acquisition (but how can a guy call himself Ma Deuce). I do not crave anonymity; a search on the internet only netted my late cousin, who, as a policeman, died while on suspension for something that was, at the very best, unfair. Nevertheless, I remain confident that the courts will find his desk sergeant guilty and fine him and his fair city plenty of money for which my grieving sister-in-law can use.

Although 49 years of age, I try to keep up with computers and learn from my 15 year old daughter. The day I quit learning, is the day I should quit my job as a rheumatologist, for any physician who quits being a student is a dangerous physician!!!

Professor Ricardo E. Alvillar, MD, FACP
Lieutenant Colonel, USAF, MC (sep)