Above the Clouds (Story of an American Entrepreneur: Wayne Baker)

[benny123]

In a recent FACA journal there was a ad for a biography on Freedom Arms founder, Wayne Baker. I knew nothing of the the family apart from what I have read here on GBO but I knew I liked their guns so that was enough reason to spend $20 on a book that would probably at least have some nice gun pics.

So far, I am about halfway through--maybe 'bout 150pgs--and though there has been no real mention about firearms yet, this has been one of the most gratifying books I have read in a while. It's a rollercoaster ride of anecdotes. Plenty of war stories, bleak weather conditions that made living so hard, jobs that were here today, gone tomorrow and a lot of airplane "mishaps" that somehow end miraculously.

 It doesn't take long in the book to realize that the achievements, successes, that occur come as a result of long and hard labour. What's remarkable is the ability to be greater than the reality of the conditions he faced. He was clearly ingenious and a smart business man. The experiences are vivid and, at least for me, it's hard not to read without feeling a bit of modesty, respect and admiration. It's easy to forget that these are real events that--at least for me--I'll never have to encounter. The book is written really well and keeps you engaged. I definitely would recommend it.         
 

[Ken ONeill]

I knew Wayne for more than 15 years before I read the book. Then I realized I hadn't "known" him at all. You'll enjoy the 2nd half as much as the first. I highly recommend the book.

[Range Rider]

I first met Wayne in the summer of 1976.  That was when his Son in law and Dave Larue were running the shop and Caribou Arms co.  I shot the Freedom Arms test gun marked number one.  The guns were test fired at an old coffee pot hanging in the back of the shed called freedom arms.  That was about the time he split off from Casull, I think not sure.  I later bought a Grizzle .45 Mag. from the LAR co. in SLC. Ut. they were housed in the orginal freedom arms co Bldg,  I last saw Wayne in 08' he was here visiting his grand kids which he often does.  Wayne, Dave Larue formerly Navy Arms Italy, and I worked on Wyomings first ever handgun hunting program.  We were able to get it passed in 1978 with the help of GUNs & AMM0 writer and friend Bob Milek.  Sorry about the ramblins of an old gun nut.

[benny123]

Everyone has a story to tell but unfortunately not all are fortunate and inspiring. Through 'Above the Clouds", you have stories of remarkable resilience and a unbridled passion to enjoy the nature of work throughout the life of Wayne Baker. You don't hear him complain, or yearn for retirement, instead you see him constantly exceed expectations. The agony faced by the unions is so  strong that you really feel empathetic for Wayne's cause. The stories are heartbreaking, and are a emotional detriment to the employees of Plateau Mining. Tomorrow,  I will be installing a countertop for my fiancée and the stories  I have read have inspired me to embrace the nature of work, not for the paycheck, but for the silent joy that surrounds a Job well done.

I think the value of a good book is not simply that you like it but that it forces you to act, or look at something in a new way. Undoubtebly, the rigors of Wayne's life forces you to reflect, and evaluate your path in liife.

By the way, 'Range Rider', Dave La Rue informed me a recently orfered 500WE uas been delivered and is awaiting pick-up at his store. I will post pictures following.  
 
  

[Ken ONeill]

Speaking of work, Benny, last year I stopped by Wayne's house. His wife Mariam told me that he was out installing a steel bridge he had just built, along with one of his men. You might want to read that sentence again. At that time, Wayne was 83 YEARS OLD!

[BlackDiamond]

Is it possible to order this book online ?

[Ken ONeill]

Yes, I'm sure Freedom Arms has copies. Go their website or call them.

[benny123]

Not sure if you intended reading a electronic version of the book, but, as of about a month ago it was only available in soft copy form.

Is it possible to order this book online ?

[BlackDiamond]

Thanks, FA has them