#metal building in USA

[arc-hus]

Canyon House, Juliaetta, United States - Paul Hirzel

[metalgarages]

Customizing Your 4 Car Garage Metal Building: Options and Idea

Choosing the right Metal Building Kit can be a transformative investment, whether you need extra storage, a workshop, or even a home addition. With various options available in the market, finding the perfect kit can seem overwhelming. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the essential factors to consider when selecting the right metal building kit for your specific needs.

Understanding Metal Building Kits

A Metal Building Kit consists of pre-engineered components that are shipped to your site and assembled on-site. These kits offer a versatile, cost-effective solution for constructing garages, workshops, storage units, barns, and even commercial buildings. The advantages of metal building kits include durability, weather resistance, affordability, and easy customization.

Benefits of Metal Building Kits

Durability: Metal buildings are resistant to termites, mold, and fire.

Cost-effective: Metal building kits offer a lower upfront cost compared to traditional construction methods.

Customizable: You can easily modify the design to suit your specific needs.

Low maintenance: Metal structures require less upkeep than wood or brick.

Now, let's explore the key factors to consider when choosing the right metal building kit.

1. Define Your Purpose

Before purchasing a metal building kit, it is essential to determine its intended use. This will help you decide on the size, design, and features you need. Some common uses include:

Garages: Ideal for storing vehicles, tools, or outdoor equipment.

Workshops: A great space for hobbies, small businesses, or crafting.

Storage Units: Perfect for additional storage for personal or business needs.

Agricultural Buildings: Use metal building kits for barns, equipment sheds, or livestock shelters.

Commercial Use: Expand your business space with a customized metal structure.

Pro Tip: Think Long-Term

Consider future uses when determining your purpose. You may want to use the building for additional storage or transform it into a workspace later.

2. Choose the Right Size

Selecting the right size for your metal building kit is critical to ensuring it fits your requirements. Metal building kits are available in various sizes, so you'll need to think about the dimensions carefully.

Consider the Following:

Height: How tall does your building need to be? Consider the height of vehicles, equipment, or any planned installations.

Width: Choose a width that accommodates your storage or workspace needs without being too cramped.

Length: Ensure you have enough space for all your items or activities. Planning extra length can prevent overcrowding later.

Common Metal Building Sizes:

20' x 30': Ideal for a standard garage or small workshop.

30' x 40': Suitable for a larger garage or small commercial space.

40' x 60': Great for agricultural buildings, large storage spaces, or commercial workshops.

3. Materials and Quality

Not all metal building kits are created equal. The quality of the materials will determine the longevity and durability of your structure.

Key Factors to Consider:

Steel Gauge: The thickness of the steel used in the frame and panels is critical. Lower gauge numbers (e.g., 12-gauge or 14-gauge) are thicker and more durable.

Coating: Ensure that the metal components are treated with a rust-resistant coating to protect against corrosion, especially in humid or coastal environments.

Roof and Wall Panels: Look for kits with sturdy roof and wall panels that can withstand extreme weather conditions, such as heavy snow, rain, and high winds.

4. Customization Options

One of the significant advantages of a metal building kit is the flexibility to customize it to meet your specific needs. Different manufacturers offer a range of customization options, including:

Windows: Increase natural light and ventilation by adding windows to your building.

Doors: Choose from roll-up doors, sliding doors, or traditional walk-in doors based on your use.

Insulation: If your building will be used for storage or as a workspace, adding insulation can help control temperature and reduce noise.

Color Options: Many metal building kits offer a variety of color choices for the roof and walls, allowing you to match your aesthetic preferences.

Pro Tip: Consider Energy Efficiency

If your building will be used regularly, consider installing insulated panels, energy-efficient windows, or even solar panels to lower energy costs.

5. Local Building Codes and Permits

Before purchasing your metal building kit, check with your local building department to understand the requirements in your area. Many municipalities have regulations regarding:

Building Permits: You may need a permit before starting construction.

Zoning Laws: Ensure your metal building complies with zoning regulations in your area.

Snow and Wind Load Requirements: Depending on your location, your building may need to meet specific wind or snow load ratings to ensure structural integrity.

Failing to comply with these regulations can lead to costly fines or the need to rebuild the structure to code.

6. Budget and Financing

Metal building kits are generally more affordable than traditional construction, but the total cost will depend on the size, quality, and customization options you choose. When setting your budget, include:

Cost of the kit: Prices can range from a few thousand dollars to tens of thousands, depending on the size and features.

Foundation: A concrete foundation may be necessary, adding to the overall cost.

Delivery: Many suppliers offer free delivery, but confirm this before purchasing.

Assembly Costs: Will you be assembling the kit yourself, or do you plan to hire professionals?

Financing Options

Many companies offer financing plans or rent-to-own options for their metal building kits, making it easier to manage the upfront costs.

7. Reputation of the Supplier

Choosing a reputable supplier is crucial to ensure the quality and longevity of your metal building kit. Do some research on the manufacturer or supplier before purchasing.

Key Considerations:

Customer Reviews: Look for reviews from previous buyers to gauge the quality of the product and customer service.

Warranty: Make sure the kit comes with a warranty that covers any potential defects in materials or workmanship.

Support: Check if the supplier offers technical support during the assembly process or if you can contact them for help.

8. Assembly and Installation

One of the biggest advantages of metal building kits is their relatively simple assembly process. However, it is essential to assess whether you can handle the installation on your own or if you’ll need to hire professionals.

DIY vs. Hiring Professionals:

DIY: Many metal building kits are designed for easy assembly with clear instructions, making it possible to build them yourself.

Hiring Professionals: If the building is large or complex, hiring a professional installation crew can save you time and ensure the job is done correctly.

Conclusion: The Right Metal Building Kit for You

Choosing the right Metal Building Kit requires careful planning and consideration of various factors, from the size and materials to customization options and budget. By defining your needs and understanding your options, you can ensure your metal building kit is a long-term investment that provides functionality, durability, and security for years to come.

At Metal Garages, we pride ourselves on delivering high-quality, customizable metal buildings that are built to last. With a focus on attention to detail and customer satisfaction, our team is here to help you find the perfect solution for your storage, workshop, or business needs.

[designcomponents01]

Nationwide leader in Metal Building Accessories and Components Suppliers. Proudly Serving the Metal Building Industry Since 1978.

[bulldog-steel-structures]

Why Metal Barns Are the Best Investment for Your Farm

The agriculture industry has seen a rise in the use of metal barns because of their many benefits over conventional timber barns. Because of their dependability, affordability, and adaptability, they are a great option for farmers and other agricultural workers. The top five advantages of employing metal barns for agricultural purposes will be discussed in this article, emphasizing its superiority as a choice for your farming activities.

1. Durability and Longevity

Resistance to Harsh Weather Conditions

Weather-Resistant: Metal barns are designed to withstand severe weather conditions, including heavy snow, strong winds, and torrential rain.

Pest-Resistant: Unlike wooden barns, metal barns are not susceptible to pests such as termites, which can cause significant damage over time.

Low Maintenance

Minimal Upkeep: Metal barns require less maintenance compared to wooden structures. They do not rot, warp, or crack, ensuring long-lasting performance.

Corrosion Resistance: High-quality metal barns are often made from galvanized steel, which is resistant to rust and corrosion, further extending their lifespan.

2. Cost-Effectiveness

Lower Initial Costs

Affordable Construction: The cost of constructing a metal barn is generally lower than that of a wooden barn, making it a cost-effective option for farmers.

Quick Assembly: Metal barns are easier and quicker to assemble, reducing labor costs and construction time.

Energy Efficiency

Insulation Options: Metal barns can be easily insulated to maintain stable temperatures, reducing energy costs for heating and cooling.

Reflective Roofing: Many metal barns come with reflective roofing options that help keep the interior cooler in the summer, further lowering energy expenses.

3. Versatility and Customization

Flexible Design Options

Customizable Layouts: Metal barns offer a high degree of customization, allowing you to design the interior layout to suit your specific agricultural needs, whether it’s for livestock housing, equipment storage, or feed storage.

Expandable: As your farming operations grow, metal barns can be easily expanded to accommodate additional space requirements.

Multi-Purpose Use

Livestock and Storage: Metal barns can be used for a variety of purposes, from housing livestock to storing crops and farm equipment.

Workshops and Offices: They can also be adapted for use as workshops, offices, or processing areas, providing a versatile solution for various agricultural activities.

4. Enhanced Safety and Security

Fire Resistance

Non-Combustible Materials: Metal barns are made from non-combustible materials, reducing the risk of fire and providing a safer environment for your livestock and equipment.

Fireproof Insulation: Additional fireproof insulation options are available to further enhance the safety of the structure.

Secure Storage

Sturdy Construction: The robust construction of metal barns provides a secure storage solution for valuable equipment and livestock, protecting them from theft and vandalism.

Lockable Doors: Metal barns often come with lockable doors and windows, adding an extra layer of security to your agricultural operations.

5. Environmental Benefits

Sustainable Materials

Recyclable Steel: Metal barns are typically made from steel, which is 100% recyclable. This makes them an environmentally friendly choice for sustainable farming.

Reduced Wood Usage: By opting for metal barns, you are reducing the demand for wood, helping to preserve forests and reduce deforestation.

Energy Efficiency

Eco-Friendly Insulation: The use of eco-friendly insulation materials in metal barns helps to reduce energy consumption, lowering your farm’s carbon footprint.

Solar Panel Compatibility: Metal roofs are ideal for installing solar panels, allowing you to harness renewable energy and further reduce your environmental impact.

Conclusion

Metal barns are a great option for agricultural applications because they provide a number of advantages. Differentiating them from typical wooden barns are their greater safety, durability, affordability, and environmental benefits. Farmers can contribute to sustainable farming practices and ensure the smooth and effective functioning of their agricultural activities by using metal barns product.

Metal barns offer a dependable and flexible solution, regardless of the function of the structure—least expensive housing for cattle, equipment storage, or multipurpose application. Purchasing a metal barn will be a wise investment that will meet your farming demands for a very long time.

Visit Bulldog Steel Structures to learn more about customizable options and superior metal barns. Our staff is committed to assisting you in locating the ideal metal barn to satisfy your farming requirements.

[freedomcarports]

Protect your vehicle with high-quality RV carports at Freedomsteelcarports

Freedomsteelcarports offers high-quality RV carports in the USA. These sturdy structures provide essential protection for your RV, safeguarding it from wear and tear, the elements, and potential damage. Ensure the longevity and value of your investment by choosing Freedomsteelcarports for your RV protection needs.

[quonsetbuildings]

Expert Tips for Evaluating Clearance Metal Buildings for Sale

[novy2sirius]

Vietnamese Astrology Traits

• Remember that enemy signs are still fatally attracted to one another but will not last in the long run and things between them could end badly. The matrix tries to set you up and leeches off your emotional energy which is why it sets you up for failure in some cases

• Your numerology is also important and may overpower some of your astrology traits. The negative traits will only apply if you’re at a lower vibration in life

Vietnamese Signs

The Rat: favored by the matrix, if anyone hurts them the matrix will come after them, intelligent when it comes to how they navigate life, adapts to surroundings quickly, most likely to gain wealth (second to the goat, pig, and cat trine), determined, lively, manipulative, will leave out parts of stories where they did something bad, greedy, stubborn, always nervous

The Ox/buffalo: grounded, often comedians, one of the least sexual signs unless they’re born under 1/5/9 energy, loyal, leaders, lots of willpower, strong, dependable, stubborn, blunt, gaslights a lot, can be violent, communicates poorly, too judgmental of others, petty

The Tiger: masculine, good health (unless numerology goes against this), sexiest sign, good fighters/strong, strong/muscular build/fitness model body, good at body building, go getters, smooth talkers, born leader, age gracefully, they have it the hardest in the usa (the usa was founded in their enemy sign year which is the year of the monkey), most likely to cheat (especially the men), childlike temper tantrums, know it alls, aggressive

The Cat: easily understands people/natural psychologist, observant, great designers, kind, creative, stealthy, quick witted, good chess players, third smartest sign, strong money maker, shouldn’t eat eggs or chicken, pessimistic, selfish, plays lots of mind games, often insecure

The Dragon: charismatic, adventurous, intelligent with the choices they make in life, sexy, energetic, powerful, confident, masculine, great fighters, bossy, rude, complicated at times, too demanding, arrogant

The Snake: wisest sign, intuitive, seductive, calm, second most influential/persuasive sign, observant, analytical, vengeful, best liars/manipulators, holds grudges, gets jealous easily

The Horse: very hard workers (workhorses), positive, animated, energetic, warm-hearted, has it the hardest in the matrix since its enemy sign is the rat (the sign the matrix favors), stubborn, superficial, self centered, impatient, impulsive, very delusional or in denial constantly

The Goat: most likely to gain wealth other than the rat (even more than its friend signs the cat and pig), the most good looking sign, most influential/persuasive sign, nurturing/caring, romantic/flirtatious, fun energy, go with the flow, usually into both spirituality and religion (they dabble into it all), funny, high maintenance, manipulative, lazy, has a hard life, lots of anxiety, gullible, emotionally sensitive/the softest sign, needs to constantly be pampered, shouldn’t be aggressive because it ends bad

The Monkey: smartest sign, popular, funniest sign, sociable, intuitive, brave, very curious, plays games with people, selfish, liars, egotistical, untrustworthy at times, always trying to get in others business

The Rooster: confident, humorous, loyal, one track minded, passionate, independent, observant, outgoing, talkative, narcissistic, control freak, bad temper/overly aggressive at times, hypocritical, picky

The Dog: very hard working, loves attention, loyal, honest, protective of the people they love, committed to the people they love, reliable, witty, helpful, overly aggressive, exaggerates stories, stubborn at times, always paranoid

The Pig: humble, strong money maker, responsible, luckiest sign, creative, classy, foodie/food lover, they love sex, tolerant, intelligent, friendly, easily influenced by others, promiscuous, overly materialistic, laziest sign, second most likely sign to cheat, naive, overly emotional, flaky

Vietnamese Elements

Metal: always looks out for loved ones, perseverant, independent, must create their own success, enjoys their freedom, enjoys comfort, stubborn, wants a romantic partner that they can control, too demanding at times, stubborn

Water: creative, intuitive, sensitive, adaptive, empathetic, sympathetic, gains others trust easily, likable, talkative, everyone feels special around them, tries to hard to make everyone around them feel happy which can lead to sadness, people follow their lead, influences others minds easily, passive aggressive, emotionally manipulative

Wood: optimistic, open minded, good at socializing, active, confident, organized, family oriented, good marriage partner, good friends/colleagues, gets attached quickly, always improving as a person, overworks themselves, passive aggressive, gullible

Fire: ambitious, determined, leader, strong, seductive, attracts people to them easily, enthusiastic, very giving in relationships, inspires others easily, affectionate, adventurous, competitive, optimistic, always stresses, impatient, gets mad quick

Earth: wise, patient, loyal, trustworthy, perfectionist, stable, always makes challenging sacrifices for others, good at giving advice, serious, goes based on logic rather than emotions, controlling

[no-passaran]

A newspaper in my country has interviewed Siddharth Kara, one of the experts on what's going on in the cobalt mines in Congo. I think it's very well explained and a must-read to get an overview of this huge human rights violation that is going on. So here I translate it to English, hoping it will reach more people.

Siddharth Kara: "Every time we buy a new mobile phone, we put our foot around the neck of a child in the Congo"

Interview with the author of Cobalt Red: How the Blood of the Congo Powers Our Lives

"The poorest people in the world, including tens of thousands of children, dig the earth in toxic and very dangerous conditions to find cobalt," says journalist and writer Siddharth Kara (Knoxville, Tennessee, USA, 1974). The rechargeable batteries of our mobile phones, tablets, laptops or electric vehicles need this mineral that thousands of children, men, women and elderly people extract from the Congolese mines in inhumane conditions. Kara went there because he had specialized in research on slavery, and in Congo he found a modernized form of slavery. "Time has passed, but the colonial mentality has not," he explains. Everything he saw there and what was explained to him is recounted in Cobalt Red: How the Blood of the Congo Powers Our Lives (a book that does not have a translation into Catalan, but which has now been translated into Spanish, by Capitán Swing). The photographs and videos illustrating this interview were taken by himself.

—Was it difficult to write this book? —Yes. Firstly, because of the specific difficulty of this area of the Congo: very dangerous, very militarized. There are armed militias. And for the local people there it is dangerous to talk to foreigners, because it can bring them consequences. It was difficult to get there, and then it was difficult to build trust with the people who worked there. I only managed it thanks to this trust, which we achieved little by little, until we were sure that we could do the research with guarantees and ethically.

—What drove you to the Congo cobalt mines? —I had been doing research on slavery since 2000. Around 2016, some African colleagues contacted me and said: “Siddharth, something terrible is happening in the cobalt mines of the Congo, maybe you should go there”. I had no idea what cobalt was. I thought it was a color used for painting. I didn't know it was used for rechargeable batteries. It took me a couple of years to grasp its importance. Then I started making contacts to travel there, and in the summer of 2018 I went there.

—And what did you find there? —The suffering and degradation I saw there were so intense that I decided to return there often to write a book. Hundreds of thousands of the world's poorest people, including tens of thousands of children, dig the earth in toxic and very dangerous conditions to find cobalt and put it into circulation, in a distribution chain that goes to the rechargeable devices and cars that people like you and me use every day. It was a human apocalypse, a total invasion of human rights and the dignity of the Congolese people.

—Could you describe what a mine like this is like, physically? How should we imagine it? —Those who are at the top of the economic chain of cobalt exploitation like to distort the truth, and use the term "artisanal mine". This way, they evoke a kind of picturesque activity, but on the ground it is a dangerous and degrading job. A mine of this kind is a mass of tunnels, pits and trenches filled with thousands of people who dig with shovels, pieces of metal or directly with their bare hands. They fill a sack with earth, stone and mud. Some children rinse it in toxic pools to separate the mud from the cobalt stones, which a whole family pours into another sack. It might take twelve hours to fill a forty-kilo sack or two. For each sack they get paid a few euros, very few, and that's how they live every day. They survive.

This video was filmed by Siddharth Kara: [you can watch the video in the interview link, freely available without any paywall, here]

—Is there any rational organization in these mines? Is there someone who decides who does what to optimize work? —Well, there is a whole gear designed so that the poor and the children of the Congo produce hundreds of thousands of tons of cobalt every year. There, work is usually divided by age and gender. Digging tunnels, which requires a lot of strength, is usually done by young men and teenagers. The digging of small pits and trenches that can be less meters deep is done by women and smaller children. Rinsing this toxic cobalt is usually done by the children. The merchant system to exploit these families and sell the cobalt they produce to the formal industrial mines is very well set up.

—What else do these people at the top of the chain invent? —Another fiction they invent is that there is a difference between industrial and artisanal mining, and that they only buy from the industrial one, where there is no child labor. Not true: all cobalt is mined by children. All the cobalt that the children and peasants extract goes straight to industrial mining. In addition, there is no way to separate what comes from a bulldozer and what comes from a child, once it all pours into the same place in the facility that does the industrial processing before this cobalt is sent out of the Congo.

—You explain that the situation is particularly abusive for women. —Yes. It is a lawless land, and violence is the norm. Women and girls always bear the brunt: they are victims of physical and sexual violence, and almost no one talks about it. It is a major tragedy: they are victims of sexual assaults that are committed in the mines themselves, while they collect the cobalt that we have in our mobile phones.

—You refer to all of this as a new episode of slavery. It is not the first time that the Congo has a decisive material for Western economic development. It happened with uranium for nuclear bombs, for example. History repeats itself. —Exactly. It is important for people to understand that we are not witnessing an isolated case, but the latest episode in a long, very long, history of looting of the Congo, a very resource-rich country, dating back to the colonial period. The first automobile revolution required rubber for tires. The Congo had one of the largest rubber tree rainforests in the world. King Leopold [of Belgium] deployed a mercenary army of criminals and terrorists to enslave the population and make them work to get it. This inspired Joseph Conrad's novel Heart of Darkness. The Congo also has abundant reserves of gold, diamonds, nickel, lithium and other metals and minerals that make components for electronic devices…

—These mercenaries deployed by King Leopold, are they still there today, in one way or another? —Yes. On the ground there are militias, or the army, or private security forces that the mining companies hire and that, sometimes, in addition to monitoring, do the work of recruiting children. Under the threat of an occupation, they force an entire town to dig. It's atrocious: we live in an age of supposed moral progress, where everyone shares the same human rights, and yet our global economic order has its knee on the necks of the children and the poor of the Congo, with this huge demand for cobalt that has to fuel the rechargeable economy.

—Has no Western country or international body done anything to stop it? —No. No western country, no government, no big business has lifted a finger to address this tragedy. They talk about maintaining human rights standards in their supply chains, they talk about environmental sustainability, but it's only talk. That is why it is very important that journalists and researchers set foot on the land of the Congo and listen to what the Congolese have to say: that no one protects their rights or their dignity, that they are erasing the environment, that mining it is not done in a sustainable way and the whole countryside is polluted and destroyed by the mining operations. It is enough to walk ten minutes around a mine to see it.

—Does the same happen in all mines? Large Western companies that use cobalt often claim that theirs comes from artisanal mines that meet standards. —Have they gone there? There is no decent mine in the Congo. It does not exist. I'll be happy to take any CEO of any tech company to their mines, where their cobalt comes from. We'll stand there, watching them extract it, and take a selfie with it. Everyone will realize that what is seen behind us is not decent. You will see destruction, millions of trees felled, installations that emit toxic gases that fall on the surrounding towns, on the children, on the animals, on the food. There is no decent mine in the Congo. And they know it. But who will believe the voice of a Congolese if they can drown it out with proclamations of human rights while they continue to make money without measure?

—Can you explain the role China plays in all of this? You say that it controls the supply chain. —Yes. China controls about 70% of mining production in the Congo. Why do we accept China saying its mines are decent, if they don't even protect the human rights of their own people? Why do we accept a technology company or a car manufacturer saying, "My Chinese partners say they protect human rights there, and that's enough for me"? Why do we accept it?

—Why do you say that a certain transition to green energy is absolute hypocrisy? —When the calls in favor of this transition consist of proposing to consumers that they buy electric vehicles instead of gasoline cars, this is hypocrisy. Because the cobalt and other elements that are used for the batteries of these cars are extracted using methods that are catastrophic for the environment. While in one part of the world we say we want to save the environment and leave a greener planet to our children, in another we are destroying both the planet and the future of their children. How can you save only part of the planet, turning the rest into a toxic dump? How can we give a green planet only to our children, while we let other people's children die? This is hypocritical.

—It is a reflection of the domination that the global north maintains over the south. —We have never given Congo the opportunity to benefit from its own resources. It is a colonial mentality: time has passed, but the colonial mentality has not. It is the same type of colonial plunder from a century and a half ago. It is colonial to say: "Look, we need this, they have it, we take it from them in any way and, when we no longer need it, we leave a catastrophe behind us". There are companies that, recently, have started to pretend that they are becoming aware of this and promised that they would try to use batteries that did not have cobalt, but in reality they said: "Well, we've been caught, we'll look for another mechanism". And they do nothing to solve the catastrophe. Even if we no longer needed cobalt tomorrow, we would have to repair the destruction we have caused these past fifteen years.

—It's the big companies who should be required to react, but what do you think a Western consumer who has gotten upset reading you could do? —The first step to progress in the conquest of human rights is always to make injustice known. Contribute to make everyone knows. Most people are good and, in their hearts, want no part of injustice. It is the few who move based on avarice and greed who pollute the rest of humanity. Outreach and awareness is the first step because it will inevitably activate a lot of people. Change always starts like this. In the case of cobalt, the second step is to think about our consumption habits. Every twelve months, the technology company I bought my phone from offers me a new one. Do I really need it? Every time we buy a new mobile phone, we put our foot on the neck of a child in the Congo. Better think twice, then.

[arc-hus]

M1 House, Bend, United States - Rodriguez & Oriol

[metalgarages]

How You Customizing 4 Car Garage Metal Building: Options and Ideas

A 4 Car Garage Metal Building offers homeowners the flexibility and versatility needed to create a storage space that fits their specific needs. Whether you need space for your vehicles, tools, workshop, or additional storage, a 4 car garage can be customized in various ways. In this article, we’ll explore several options and ideas to help you make the most out of your 4 car metal garage.

1. Design and Layout Options

The first step in customizing your 4 Car Garage Metal Building is to choose the design and layout that suits your property and needs.

Size Considerations: A typical 4 car garage will provide enough space for four vehicles, but you can adjust the dimensions depending on whether you need extra storage or workspace. Consider adding extra depth or width if you need more room for equipment, shelving, or a workshop.

Interior Layout: Think about how you want to organize the interior space. Will you use all the space for parking, or do you want designated areas for a workshop or storage? The internal configuration can be customized to fit your personal needs.

Open vs. Partitioned Space: You can opt for an open floor plan where all four parking spaces are in one large area, or you can divide the garage into separate sections for better organization.

2. Door and Window Customization

The doors and windows of your 4 Car Garage Metal Building are crucial components that add functionality and aesthetic appeal. These features are customizable to match your style preferences and practical requirements.

Garage Doors: Standard garage doors come in a variety of styles, sizes, and materials. You can opt for traditional roll-up garage doors or sectional doors that match the look of your home. Additionally, automatic garage door openers can provide added convenience.

Single or Multiple Doors: You can choose between one large garage door for all vehicles or separate doors for each vehicle, depending on your space requirements and preference.

Windows: Adding windows to your garage provides natural light and improves ventilation. Windows can also enhance the look of your garage, especially if you choose decorative window designs.

Energy-Efficient Windows: Consider installing energy-efficient windows that keep your garage well-insulated while allowing natural light to enter.

Entry Doors: Don’t forget to add a standard entry door for easy access to your garage without needing to open the larger garage doors.

3. Exterior Customization

Customizing the exterior of your 4 Car Garage Metal Building can enhance the overall look of your property while ensuring that the building meets local regulations and personal preferences.

Roof Style: Metal garages offer several roofing options, including gable, vertical, and lean-to styles. The choice of roof style can impact both the appearance and functionality of your garage.

Vertical Roof: Ideal for areas with heavy snowfall or rain, as it allows for better drainage.

Gable Roof: Offers a traditional look and can complement the architectural style of your home.

Color Choices: Many metal building suppliers offer a wide range of color options for both the siding and roof. Choose colors that match or complement your home’s exterior to create a cohesive look.

Siding Options: The exterior siding of your metal garage can be customized with different finishes or textures to achieve a particular look. You can choose from materials like steel panels, vinyl, or wood-like finishes to enhance curb appeal.

4. Interior Customization Options

The interior of your 4 Car Garage Metal Building can be personalized based on how you plan to use the space. Here are some customization ideas to consider:

Insulation: If you plan to spend time in your garage, especially during colder months, insulating the walls and roof is a wise investment. Insulation will help regulate the temperature inside and improve energy efficiency.

Flooring: While the standard concrete floor is durable and functional, you can upgrade to a polished concrete finish or even add interlocking tiles or epoxy coatings for a more refined look.

Epoxy Flooring: Offers a smooth, durable surface that’s resistant to stains and easy to clean. It also enhances the aesthetic appeal of the garage.

Lighting: Adequate lighting is essential, especially if you plan to use the garage as a workshop. LED lights are energy-efficient and provide bright, long-lasting illumination.

Ventilation and Heating: If you’ll be using the garage year-round, consider installing proper ventilation and heating systems. Exhaust fans or ventilation systems can help regulate air quality, while space heaters can keep the area comfortable during the winter.

5. Storage Solutions

One of the key reasons homeowners invest in a 4 Car Garage Metal Building is the additional storage space it provides. Customizing your garage with storage solutions can help you make the most of the available space.

Overhead Storage: Maximize vertical space by installing overhead storage racks. These are ideal for storing seasonal items like holiday decorations, camping gear, or sports equipment.

Shelving Units: Freestanding or wall-mounted shelving units provide ample storage for tools, hardware, and other equipment. Opt for heavy-duty metal shelves that can handle the weight of larger items.

Cabinet Systems: Installing cabinets along the walls of your garage can keep smaller items organized and out of sight. Cabinets are especially useful if you plan to use part of the garage as a workshop.

Workbenches: If your garage will double as a workshop, adding a custom workbench is essential. You can build a sturdy workbench with storage drawers and tool racks to keep everything organized and accessible.

6. Security Features

A 4 Car Garage Metal Building is an investment worth protecting, so consider adding security features to keep your vehicles and belongings safe.

Alarm Systems: Installing an alarm system with motion detectors and surveillance cameras can help deter theft and vandalism.

Smart Locks: For added convenience and security, you can install smart locks that allow you to lock and unlock the garage doors remotely via your smartphone.

Exterior Lighting: Motion-sensor lights installed around the exterior of your garage can increase security and prevent unauthorized access during the night.

7. Solar Power Integration

For homeowners looking to make their property more eco-friendly, integrating solar power into your 4 Car Garage Metal Building is an excellent option.

Solar Panels: Installing solar panels on the roof of your garage can generate renewable energy to power lights, heating, and other electrical needs in the garage. In some cases, it can even generate extra energy that you can use to power your home.

Battery Storage: If you install solar panels, consider adding a battery storage system to store excess energy generated during the day. This can be used to power your garage or home during nighttime hours or when solar energy production is low.

8. Multifunctional Use

While a 4 Car Garage Metal Building is primarily designed for vehicle storage, it can be customized for multifunctional use.

Home Office: With the rise of remote work, some homeowners are converting part of their garage into a home office. This allows you to separate your workspace from the living areas of your home.

Home Gym: You can also customize part of your garage into a personal gym by adding gym equipment, rubber flooring, and mirrors.

Recreational Space: If you enjoy entertaining guests or need a space for hobbies, your 4 car garage can be turned into a recreational area with a pool table, entertainment system, or craft station.

Conclusion

Customizing a 4 Car Garage Metal Building allows homeowners to create a space that meets their specific needs, whether it’s for vehicle storage, a workshop, or additional storage. From choosing the right design and layout to adding personalized features like doors, windows, insulation, and security, the options are endless. With the right planning and customization, your metal garage can be a long-lasting, functional, and attractive addition to your home.

[g1ucose]

The Best

being UK’s number one and having a tension filled rivalry with the number one hero of USA. It makes sense, both country’s population don’t really like eachother. The online discourse on “which hero is best?” is a never ending battle of “you eat beans on toast haha” and “shut up you american prick”

you meet once a year for one week, during an awarding heroes event and every year, you meet in each others private hotel rooms to fuck each others brains out to prove whose really the best, because sparring would probably end up in several damaged buildings and several hospital bills or even a dead body. “this is the safest way” she persuaded you with that vapid naughty look , “whattt, are you scared I might win?”

you didn’t let her get to you though. every year, the violent teeth clashing always ended up with you claiming victory. her cocky hubris attitude dwindling away with each tug of her blonde locks and a vicious bite on whatever part of her body that was the closest and just like that you’d have the number one, omnipotent, supposedly omniscient hero of U fucking SA succumbing to you. her fingers entangle themselves in your hair when you drive up into her with your silicone dick her legs resting on your shoulders and her mouth falls open to gasp out at the immense stretch of your ribbed strap, all the oxygen leaving her lungs. “what’s wrong my love? can’t catch your breath?” the nickname makes her whine even though she knows you’re only messing with her. “Fuck— ah! — youu.” she tries to show at least some defiance but you know for certain she’s throughly enjoying it. “you’re manners are horrible because of course they are.” you speak casually rolling your eyes along with the comment as if you aren’t a few too many inches deep inside of her.

she cuts off your rambling insults with a pull of your hair that brings your mouth onto her lips and has you slowing the pace of your hips into a sweet rut that has her whimpering into your intertwined tongues. You pull away, moving down her body placing gratifying pecks down her collar bone. “m’cumming—” she hurries out resting a panicked hand on your thigh. “already? where are your manners?” you remind her.

“what?— ahn—,” her eyes flicker up into yours when she realises what you’re asking of her, “ohh—fuck you. I’m n—not begging.”

“I guess I’ll have to stop then?”

she swallows whats left of her pride one last time before letting out the most pathetic pleas of, “please please— Oh fuckk— please ugh- let me cum, let me cum— m’cummin”

“And whose the best, hm?” you coo at her,

“Fuck— you are. you— ah!“ you cut her off by leaning your remaining weight on top of her and resting your face in the space between her neck, her legs now almost parallel to her torso as you bend her in half as you pound into her punctuating your point with each of your thrusts. “Yeah thats right.” you say with bared teeth, “I’m the fuckin’—best.” by the end of the night you have her cumming with her teeth sunk deep into the fleshy junction between your neck and shoulder making you wince out in pain. “Ow—fuckk.”

She’s heaving for breath when you get off her body, her hands clinging onto you as you leave the bed to find your clothes. “what. the fuck.” she breathes out. “loser.” you chuckle as you slam the door shut behind you as you leave her hotel room.

at the end of the week, you’re watching her stride towards the woman holding the golden trophy ready to claim the piece of metal marking her as the “Number One Hero of The People.” and makes you scoff because you and her both know who the better hero really is.

A/N: lmfoa i forgot to mention that im british which makes my crush on cathleen a little funnier, also sorry for making you british but its for the plot guys!! tbh i dont really like this but oh well i spent time writing it might aswell post it, no?

[bulldog-steel-structures]

The Benefits of Rent-to-Own Metal Buildings: Flexibility and Affordability

The popularity of metal buildings has increased dramatically in recent years because of its affordability, adaptability, and durability. Metal structures are a great option if you need more storage, a workshop, or a personalised garage. For many, though, the initial outlay required to acquire these structures can be a major deterrent. The Rent-to-Own option excels in this situation since it is cost-effective and flexible. In this article, we will explore the numerous benefits of Rent-to-Own metal buildings and why this financing option is becoming increasingly popular.

Understanding Rent-to-Own

Rent-to-Own is a financing arrangement that allows individuals to lease a metal building with the option to purchase it over time. Instead of paying the full purchase price upfront, you make manageable monthly payments that contribute towards owning the building. This arrangement provides immediate access to the building while spreading the cost over a period, making it easier to manage financially.

Affordability: Breaking Down Financial Barriers

No Large Upfront Costs

One of the most significant advantages of Rent-to-Own metal buildings is the elimination of large upfront costs. Traditional purchasing methods often require a substantial down payment, which can be a financial burden. With Rent-to-Own, you can acquire the building you need without draining your savings or taking out a large loan.

Manageable Monthly Payments

Rent-to-Own arrangements feature predictable, manageable monthly payments. This allows you to budget more effectively and avoid financial strain. The structured payment plan ensures that you can gradually work towards owning the building without compromising other financial obligations.

No Credit Check Required

Unlike traditional financing options that often require a credit check, Rent-to-Own typically does not. This inclusivity makes it accessible to a broader range of individuals, including those with less-than-perfect credit scores. It provides an opportunity for everyone to improve their property with a metal building, regardless of their credit history.

Flexibility: Adapting to Your Needs

Immediate Access

Rent-to-Own metal buildings provide immediate access to the structure. Whether you need extra storage space, a workshop, or a garage, you can start using the building right away. This is particularly beneficial for those who require a quick solution without the wait associated with saving for a full purchase.

Easy Upgrades and Customizations

As your needs evolve, so can your Rent-to-Own metal building. These structures are highly customizable and expandable. If you require additional space or specific features, you can easily modify the building to suit your requirements. This flexibility ensures that your investment remains valuable and relevant over time.

Opt-Out Options

The Rent-to-Own model offers the flexibility to opt out of the agreement if your circumstances change. If you find that you no longer need the building or if your financial situation shifts, you can typically end the lease without severe penalties. This flexibility provides peace of mind, knowing that you are not locked into a long-term commitment if your needs change.

Building Equity: Investment Over Time

Equity Accumulation

With each monthly payment, you are building equity in the metal building. Unlike renting, where payments do not contribute to ownership, Rent-to-Own ensures that your investment grows over time. Each payment brings you closer to owning the building outright, making it a more satisfying and rewarding investment.

Increased Property Value

Adding a metal building to your property can significantly enhance its value. Potential buyers often look for additional storage, workshops, or garage spaces when considering a property. By opting for Rent-to-Own, you can improve your property's appeal and market value without the burden of large upfront costs.

Versatility and Practical Applications

Storage Solutions

Rent-to-Own metal buildings are perfect for storage solutions. Whether you need space for gardening tools, equipment, or seasonal items, these structures offer secure and weather-resistant storage. Immediate access to additional storage can declutter your home and improve organization.

Workshops and Garages

For those in need of a workshop or garage, Rent-to-Own metal buildings provide an ideal solution. Whether you're a hobbyist, mechanic, or craftsman, having a dedicated space can enhance productivity and enjoyment. The flexibility to customize the space to suit your specific needs adds tremendous value.

Agricultural Uses

Farmers and agricultural businesses can greatly benefit from Rent-to-Own metal buildings. They provide essential storage for equipment, feed, and supplies and can also serve as barns, livestock shelters, or greenhouses. The adaptability of these buildings ensures they meet the diverse needs of agricultural operations.

Environmental and Maintenance Benefits

Durability and Longevity

Metal buildings are known for their durability and longevity. They withstand harsh weather conditions, resist pests, and require minimal maintenance compared to traditional wooden structures. Investing in a Rent-to-Own metal building ensures you have a reliable, long-lasting structure that will serve your needs for many years.

Eco-Friendly Option

Steel is a recyclable material, making metal buildings an eco-friendly choice. By opting for a metal structure, you contribute to sustainability efforts. Additionally, the energy efficiency of metal buildings can reduce heating and cooling costs, providing further financial and environmental benefits.

Conclusion

Metal building rent-to-own metal buildings are a popular choice for many people and businesses because they provide a special blend of affordability and flexibility. Rent-to-Own is a great option because it allows you to have a sturdy, high-quality building without having to pay a lot of money up front, and it gives you the freedom to modify the building to suit your needs. Whether you require an agricultural building, a workshop, or additional storage, Rent-to-Own offers a useful and affordable solution to improve your property.

At Bulldog Steel Structures, we specialize in providing high-quality, customizable metal buildings with Rent-to-Own options tailored to your specific needs. Contact us today to learn more about how Rent-to-Own can benefit you and start transforming your property with a versatile and affordable metal building.

[nerdieforpedro]

WIP Thursday

The smut is still ever present. And has leaked into many a fic. The word leak may have been used in some of them, or not. Nerdie is unsure and quite unwell. Like I’m physically fine but you, the mind is swirling.

Anyway… 👀 The docket for this week: One Tim, One Marcus, Two Dieters and a trickle of Din.

I was tagged by @syd-djarin 😎 Thanks for the reminder and all your fics look awesome! 😘

First up, Tim (he’s got plot to get through thank you!):

Doc and Rockford are seated outside of the diner. The cool air feels excellent on her skin. She feels like she’s burning up. Tim likely understood what his brother meant by her satisfaction or lack thereof and that’s before even mentioning him putting your lab coat on her, complimenting her or touching her stomach. Doc still has to process that. So much has happened. “You wanna talk about why you were out with my brother, the outfit, or me getting you in the car Esme? Which elephant do you want to tackle first?” Rockford would have phrased it differently, but he’s tired from the late night paperwork, being worried about her and now trying to think about how he’s going to react to whatever she has to say. 

Second, Marcus Pike (because he's adorable):

“Hey beautiful! You ready for to go? I’m just going to put away some files and we’ll be ready to go.” Marcus doesn’t miss a beat in giving a swift kiss to Imani’s forehead then heading over to his desk and fiddling with drawers. He’s shuffling papers while stealing glances at the woman seated in his office. “Between the shade of orange, your smiling face and those luscious legs tempting me from across the room, we might be late for our reservation.” The good agent Pike wiggled his eyebrows which had his lady friend holding her stomach in laughter.

Lastly, I wrote some Din (because we don't appreciate Din's early armor enough):

Still holding the knife, she lowered it and nodded, “Yes thanks to you. May I know your name to thank you? I can’t see you very well there, could you step forward?” Taking two steps toward him, she stopped three feet before the shadows from the building obscured him. Heavy boots and what sounded to be metal clinked with his steps. His armor was the answer, he wouldn’t need to really tell her. Silver that reflected the moonlight with a t-visor helmet and a modulated voice. None of his skin was exposed, covered in a mix of brown metal and durable cloth and a black cape at his back. Hints of silver dotted his armor from different pieces and from his weapons. Those are a major tenant of their culture - their beliefs.

The graphic above is for the pending Din fic. 😀

And I have one for a pending Dieter fic ( @angelofsmalldeath-codeine this is 30% your fault - thank you. 😊)

Technically, she’d met one of her best friends at a table read for ‘Graceland’ but it didn’t register who he was until there was an entire season making him more central to the plot on the second show. Aisha appreciated that he was serious about getting the character right, adding in changes to better express what the writer’s room was trying to convey. He didn’t do it so much for the slick escapist show on the USA show but she really saw him shine on the screen as Agent Marcus Pike in ‘The Mentalist.’ One thing that the writer’s room voted to write out for his character was all the eating. “No agent is gonna be eating like that,” they always said. Once Dieter Bravo ate the takeout in the scene while dolling out his lines, the director loved it so they quickly pivoted on that creative choice.

And I can’t leave Dieter and Maya out you know! I haven’t been chipping away at them slowly, there’s a lot to figure out. I’m don’t have much on them unfortunately. 😭

No pressure tags: @megamindsecretlair @soft-persephone @connectioneverywhere @boliv-jenta @mysterious-moonstruck-musings

@pedroshotwifey @perotovar @julesonrecord @chaithetics @avastrasposts

@slippinninque @rosecentaur1916 @westside-rot @inept-the-magnificent @tinytinymenace

@jessthebaker @sin-djarin @morallyinept @604to647 @djarins-cyare

@djarinmuse @pedroshotwifey

[zoesblogsposts]

o 625 words to know in your target language o

There is a really interesting blog called "Fluent Forever" that aids foreign language learners in tricks, tips and techniques to guide them to achieving fluency "quickly" and efficiently. One of the tricks is to learn these 625 vocab words in your target language, that way you have a basis to start delving into grammar with ease as you can understand a lot of vocab right off the bat. Plus this list of words are common across the world and will aid you in whatever language you are learning. Here is the list in thematic order

• Animal: dog, cat, fish, bird, cow, pig, mouse, horse, wing, animal

• Transportation: train, plane, car, truck, bicycle, bus, boat, ship, tire, gasoline, engine, (train) ticket, transportation

• Location: city, house, apartment, street/road, airport, train station, bridge hotel, restaurant, farm, court, school, office, room, town, university, club, bar, park, camp, store/shop, theater, library, hospital, church, market, country (USA,

France, etc.), building, ground, space (outer space), bank, location

• Clothing: hat, dress, suit, skirt, shirt, T-shirt, pants, shoes, pocket, coat, stain, clothing

• Color: red, green, blue (light/dark), yellow, brown, pink, orange, black, white, gray, color

• People: son, daughter, mother, father, parent (= mother/father), baby, man, woman, brother, sister, family, grandfather, grandmother, husband, wife, king, queen, president, neighbor, boy, girl, child (= boy/girl), adult (= man/woman), human (# animal), friend (Add a friend's name), victim, player, fan, crowd, person

• Job: Teacher, student, lawyer, doctor, patient, waiter, secretary, priest, police, army, soldier, artist, author, manager, reporter, actor, job

• Society: religion, heaven, hell, death, medicine, money, dollar, bill, marriage, wedding, team, race (ethnicity), sex (the act), sex (gender), murder, prison, technology, energy, war, peace, attack, election, magazine, newspaper, poison, gun, sport, race (sport), exercise, ball, game, price, contract, drug, sign, science, God

• Art. band, song, instrument (musical), music, movie, art

• Beverages: coffee, tea, wine, beer, juice, water, milk, beverage

• Food: egg, cheese, bread, soup, cake, chicken, pork, beef, apple, banana orange, lemon, corn, rice, oil, seed, knife, spoon, fork, plate, cup, breakfast, lunch, dinner, sugar, salt, bottle, food

• Home: table, chair, bed, dream, window, door, bedroom, kitchen, bathroom, pencil, pen, photograph, soap, book, page, key, paint, letter, note, wall, paper, floor, ceiling, roof, pool, lock, telephone, garden, yard, needle, bag, box, gift, card, ring, tool

• Electronics: clock, lamp, fan, cell phone, network, computer, program (computer), laptop, screen, camera, television, radio

• Body: head, neck, face, beard, hair, eye, mouth, lip, nose, tooth, ear, tear (drop), tongue, back, toe, finger, foot, hand, leg, arm, shoulder, heart, blood, brain, knee, sweat, disease, bone, voice, skin, body

• Nature: sea, ocean, river, mountain, rain, snow, tree, sun, moon, world, Earth, forest, sky, plant, wind, soil/earth, flower, valley, root, lake, star, grass, leaf, air, sand, beach, wave, fire, ice, island, hill, heat, nature

• Materials: glass, metal, plastic, wood, stone, diamond, clay, dust, gold, copper, silver, material

• Math/Measurements: meter, centimeter, kilogram, inch, foot, pound, half, circle, square, temperature, date, weight, edge, corner

• Misc Nouns: map, dot, consonant, vowel, light, sound, yes, no, piece, pain, injury, hole, image, pattern, noun, verb, adjective

• Directions: top, bottom, side, front, back, outside, inside, up, down, left, right, straight, north, south, east, west, direction

• Seasons: Summer, Spring, Winter, Fall, season

• Numbers: 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20 21, 22, 30, 31, 32, 40, 41, 42, 50, 51, 52, 60, 61, 62, 70, 71, 72, 80, 81, 82, 90, 91, 92, 100, 101, 102, 110, 111, 1000, 1001, 10000, 100000, million, billion, 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th, number

• Months: January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November, December

• Days of the week: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday

• Time: year, month, week, day, hour, minute, second, morning, afternoon, evening, night, time

• Verbs: work, play, walk, run, drive, fly, swim, go, stop, follow, think, speak/say, eat, drink, kill, die, smile, laugh, cry, buy, pay, sell, shoot(a gun), learn, jump, smell, hear (a sound), listen (music), taste, touch, see (a bird), watch (TV), kiss, burn, melt, dig, explode, sit, stand, love, pass by, cut, fight, lie down, dance, sleep, wake up, sing, count, marry, pray, win, lose, mix/stir, bend, wash, cook, open, close, write, call, turn, build, teach, grow, draw, feed, catch, throw, clean, find, fall, push, pull, carry, break, wear, hang, shake, sign, beat, lift

• Adjectives: long, short (long), tall, short (vs tall), wide, narrow, big/large, small/little, slow, fast, hot, cold, warm, cool, new, old (new), young, old (young), weak, dead, alive, heavy, light (heavy), dark, light (dark), nuclear, famous

[blubushie]

i love your bullet/casing post so much i jumped up and down and squealed upon reading through it do you have any more cool gun facts that people often get wrong

So I wrote a long spiel and accidentally closed my tab so now I'm pissed. Let's do this over lmao

FOR ANIMATORS/AUTHORS/ARTISTS

While the sound of a pump-action shotgun being cycled is really cool and very intimidating, YOU'RE WASTING YOUR AMMO WHEN YOU DO IT. Every time you pump a shotgun, you're ejecting a spent shell. If there's no spent shells, you're ejecting perfectly good ammo.

You rack a slide. You rack a pump-action shotgun. YOU DON'T RACK A BOLT ON A BOLT-ACTION RIFLE. You CYCLE a bolt. If I see one more person say they're racking the bolt of a bolt-action I'm gonna shove my boot so far up their--

Recoil is a bitch. You can always tell who has never fired a firearm in their life because of how they write/animate recoil. Do you know what makes fully automatic weapons dangerous to the user? The bloody recoil. It's hard to control. Your aim will move up, and especially in fully-automatic handguns or SMGs like Tommy guns which are smaller weapons, there's not much gun to brace against your body to steady it. That means it's harder to control. That makes it dangerous and puts you at risk.

THERE'S NO SUCH THING AS A SILENCER. They're called suppressors, and they don't make the gun silent. They only bring the volume down by a few decibels so (usually) you won't have to wear ear protection when firing. This is especially useful in combat scenarios like what military and police experience when you're firing in an enclosed space like a building where sound reverberates, or just firing in an indoor firing range. If you have a larger calibre firearm, bring your suppressor because the bloke in the booth next to you will thank you for it.

Handguns usually aren't very accurate, and perfecting your accuracy with them takes a LOT of time that most people don't have to put in. I guarantee you that unless your character is a notoriously skilled marksman and has trained extensively with handguns, they're not shooting that guy in the forehead on the first try.

THERE'S NO SUCH THING AS BULLETPROOF, ONLY BULLET-RESISTANT. Even the USA's ACH (Advanced Combat Helmet) is NOT DESIGNED to stop bullets. You know what kills people most in war, more than bullets? Shockwaves from blasts. That's what helmets are designed to protect against: shockwaves from explosions (which causes brain trauma) and shrapnel. The ACH can protect against handgun-calibre rounds, but don't rely on it to protect you against rifle-calibre rounds. Bullets will penetrate basically everything and half the time what characters use as shields (couches, tables, furniture, metal plates) are things bullets will penetrate with ease. VESTS WILL NOT PROTECT AGAINST HIGH-CALIBRE ROUNDS. Hell, vests often don't even protect against handgun-calibre rounds. The reasons one of the rules of firearm safety is identifying your target is because bullets will penetrate people and strike whatever is behind them. Sometimes that's another person. Also, bullet-resistant vests don't protect against knives.

People don't shrug off bullet wounds unless it's something like a graze, and even then you have burning to the skin. Rounds are fucking hot when they're fired---both as a result of air friction while travelling through the air, and as a result of being propelled from the barrel by hot gunpowder.

YOU CAN MOST DEFINITELY DIE FROM A BULLET TO THE SHOULDER. In your shoulder is an artery---worst case scenario, if it hits above your collar bone it ruptures the subclavian artery. Second worst case scenario, if it hits where your arm meets your shoulder it ruptures the axillary artery. You're going to lose an extensive amount of blood, probably go into shock, and the wound will be singed from the heat of the bullet. The impact alone can break bones without even touching them. When I hunt deer and I get a neck shot (not what I aim for, but mistakes happen) I don't usually hit the vertebrae. The vertebrae is severed simply by the shockwave of the impact.

Guns don't click when they're empty. That click you hear is the firing pin moving forward to strike the primer of the cartridge. In handguns, the slide will move backwards and lock when the magazine is empty. It will not click. The only firearms that "click" when empty are double-action revolvers, as pulling the trigger of a double-action will pull the hammer back. A complete pull makes the hammer strike the back of the firing pin, which then strikes nothing because there isn't a round in the chamber of the cylinder. Unless you're pulling the hammer of a handgun back yourself and pulling the trigger, you will not hear a click. It just won't fire. This is why you keep track of how much ammo you're using, folks.

Most modern firearms don't have a muzzle flash. It's something you see more in things like a muskets. Handguns, military-style rifles, and machine guns don't usually have muzzle flashes, and military and police specifically use low-flash gunpowder so that their position isn't given away by the muzzle flash. For firearms that do have muzzle flashes (for example, some bolt-action rifles) that's what a flash suppressor is for!

MODERN FIREARMS WILL NOT FIRE WHEN THEY'RE DROPPED. Firearm manufacturers go through EXTENSIVE testing to ensure that this doesn't happen because it's a safety risk. In Ye Olde Days (1800s) companies would go bankrupt for putting firearms on the market that are susceptible to accidental discharges. Nowadays, THEY GET SHUT DOWN. The only firearms that CAN fire when dropped are VERY OLD revolvers without a safety mechanism that modern revolvers have, and even then that's only if they fall at the perfect angle directly onto the hammer. Just to be safe, that's why you keep your revolvers half-cocked! (There's some exceptions to this rule with older firearms but it's a general rule of thumb.)

SNIPERS WORK IN TWO-MAN TEAMS. If you're shooting over a thousand yards, most snipers will have a spotter who does his calculating for him. ALL MILITARY SNIPERS WORK IN TWO-MAN TEAMS REGARDLESS OF RANGE. I can do my own spotting up to 1100yd, but anything beyond that requires the assistance of a spotter. There's a lot of maths that goes into sniping. Wind direction, wind speed (what we call windage), bullet drop, trajectory of the Earth, and the Coriolis effect when shooting due north or due south. If you're in the northern hemisphere, the bullet will shift right. If you're in the southern hemisphere, the bullet will shift left. I have no idea how it works at the equator.

When fired at night (and ESPECIALLY in snow) rifles don't make a "BANG" sound. They crack. Sound carries differently at night, which changes the distinctive "bang" of a rifle to a cracking sound, like what you'd hear when ice is breaking on a lake. The best example of this DONE RIGHT is when Sniper fires his rifle in the SFM Art of Justice. You can hear that sound at 3:05.

If I think of any more later I'll add some.

As always, if you have any questions feel free to send me an ask!

[nevesmose]

Fic ideas: Sevatar's first week as First Captain, where he realizes how many cats he has to herd as part of his new position? Konrad and Mortarion being awful bffs together? Horus and his scrungly new goth brother? Kyroptera joint venting session?

Last Chance on 8th Street

So in a perhaps too literal interpretation I combined "Sevatar's first week herding cats" with "Horus and his scrungly goth brother" and this was where things ended up. Trying to go for a kind of The Iron Giant "stereotypical 1950s USA that never really existed" vibe I think?

Somewhere in the idealised American past, a no-good street punk is sentenced to community service.

He's just so bald, Sevatar thought unkindly as he looked at the back of Police Chief Horus Lupercal's head. So goddamn bald.

It definitely wasn't the first time he had been in the back of a police car, but it was the first time he'd done it without his hands cuffed behind his back.

"You should consider yourself very fortunate to get away with community service after what you did," Horus said, staring daggers at him in the rear-view mirror. "But my father the mayor has decided to try out a new rehabilitation policy on you instead."

That explained the personal chauffeur treatment, Sevatar supposed, grimacing at yet another mention of my father the mayor. If they ever made a talking Horus Lupercal doll, that's what it would say every time you pulled its string.

"Gee whiz, Chief," Sevatar said insincerely. "All this fuss over a little jaywalking?"

"Jaywalking," Horus repeated flatly.

"Yeah, jaywalking. I jaywalked all the way across town at three in the morning to a nice suburban house and then I jaydrove off in their Cadillac. I pulled some jaydonuts in it and then I jayburned it." He shrugged expressively. "But it started with jaywalking."

Horus didn't reply as they halted next to a low, nondescript building with a sign saying 8th STREET MUNICIPAL CAT SHELTER.

"Here we are," he announced. "Your community service. Get out. It's time you met my brother."

"Oh yeah?" Sevatar left the car, scowling, and adjusted his leather jacket with an air of immense self-importance. "And which brother would that be exactly? Because it feels like there's about a hundred of you. Which reminds me," he added nastily, "give my sympathies to Mrs Mayor."

"A real comedian, aren't you?" Horus replied. "Let me put it this way. He's not one of the ones my father the mayor allows to be seen in public."

"Oh shit, is it the crazy one? The one the Army did all those psychic UFO mind control experiments on?"

"Is that what they say about him?" Horus asked innocently. He shouldered open the main door of the building and led Sevatar into a small, dimly-lit reception area empty except for a few metal folding chairs, a desk with a disconnected rotary phone on it, and a poster of a cat on one wall.

"He must be out in the yard," Horus said, gesturing to a door leading to the rear of the building. "And just remember," he continued, turning to point a finger at Sevatar, "when you fail at this, which you will because you're nothing but a worthless punk, I will be here to arrest you personally. Have fun."

With that he left, either ignoring or not hearing Sevatar's response. Sevatar shrugged, lit up a cigarette and headed out into the yard behind the building.

Whatever he'd expected, it wasn't this - an open, grass-covered space dotted with trees and what looked like a variety of homemade cat-sized climbing frames, scratching posts and houses.

And above all, what looked like thousands of cats, everywhere he looked. The most cats he'd ever seen. Like in that horror movie about birds, but... with cats. For some reason every single one of them was some variety of black, grey or white in colour.

Sitting cross-legged in the centre of the yard, surrounded by his own personal clowder, was Konrad Curze, the crazy one of the Mayor's sons.

He was tall, tall enough that you could see it even sitting down, and far thinner than any healthy person should be. He wore grey jeans and a black turtleneck sweater which, combined with his long black hair and intense dark eyes, made him look like a kind of depressed, disappointed beatnik.

The cat hair all over his clothes didn't help.

"Those things will kill you," Curze said, looking over at Sevatar. His voice was raspy, like he'd either used it far too much or far too little.

"What, the cats?"

He shook his head and gently pushed a tuxedo cat with a peculiar marking on its forehead off his lap so he could stand up and walk over to Sevatar. "Cigarettes. Cats will just eat you after you die."

He had to be seven feet tall at least. Sevatar, who fell back on humour at times of uncertainty, found himself compelled to make some kind of remark.

"What's the weather like up there, Legs?"

"Bright and breezy," Curze replied in the same whispery tone. "You must be Jago Sevatarion, here to serve the community."

"It's Sevatar. And yeah, I guess so. Didn't think it would be a community of cats though."

"Cats are vital to the community," Curze replied. "While their actions in keeping down pest populations may seem brutal, or even downright sadistic, their overall contribution is very positive to society."

"Right. But what about, like... endangered birds? Don't they hunt them too?"

"That's utterly irrelevant to me, Sevatar. I just like cats."

They walked together around the yard, with Curze describing in great detail the various duties involved in running the shelter and Sevatar mostly trying not to step on any of the residents.

Eventually his curiosity got the better of him. "You know, they say you're crazy," he ventured at a stopping point in Curze's feline monologue while he was being shown the special-care area.

"They're right," Curze answered bluntly. "Now, Malcharion here is very old and needs his food mushed up with some water."

"Okay. But you don't seem too crazy right now."

Curze paused and looked at him. "I have good days and bad days," he said. "Today is a good day. Do not under any circumstances let Gendor near any of the other cats' food," he added, pointing at a malevolent-looking grey tabby. "He is entirely untrustworthy."

In the end they agreed that Sevatar would be back at nine the next morning, but when the next morning came he woke up at half past eight with no possible way to get to 8th Street on time.

So he gave up and just kind of wandered around, smoking and making vague plans to skip town. That was something people did, after all. Just vanishing one day.

His thoughts were interrupted by a blurry black shape looming up in his peripherial vision. It quickly resolved itself into Konrad Curze and his cat-hair-covered turtleneck who grabbed him forcefully.

"You should be at the cat shelter," Curze rasped, somehow making the phrase into the most terrifying threat Sevatar had ever heard. The taller man had him pinned up against the wall, just about lifting him off his feet through sheer wiry strength, but then he suddenly drew back.

"You weigh hardly anything, Sevatar," he said. "When did you last eat?"

Sevatar told him, and that was how the man who up until that point had seemed intent on killing him insisted on going to the nearest diner instead.

Curze sat opposite him in their booth with a cup of coffee while Sevatar, who had taken the statement to get whatever you want well and truly to heart, was working his way through a cheeseburger, fries, soda, milkshake and a sundae the size of a toddler.

"Today hasn't been a good day," Curze said, as if that explained everything. "I'm given to understand that for you it's this or prison. Is that right?"

Sevatar shrugged. "And, so what if it is?"

Curze thought for a moment, clasping his long fingers around his coffee cup.

"It's very much the same for me," he said eventually. "If I fail at this I'll be of no use at all to my father the Mayor, as Horus so endearingly puts it."

"Is that so?" Sevatar said, or at least intended to say, around a mouthful of burger. It came out as more of a generic inquisitive sound which didn't seem to bother Curze.

"The next step from there would be a long stay at an institution somewhere very far away and, I think, an eventful appointment with a lobotomist. It would be as if I never existed at all."

"That's rough," Sevatar said, not entirely unkindly.

Curze gave a rueful smile. "That's my father," he replied. "He's done it before with his little disappointments. Did you know there used to be twenty of us?"

"No," Sevatar replied, "I didn't know that."

On impulse, he wiped the fry grease off on his white T-shirt and then held out his hand to Curze.

"I'll make you a deal," he said. "Let's help each other to stay out of institutions as long as we can. Just don't try to kill me again."

They shook hands and started discussing how to herd cats.