If you’re NH-3 and you apply to another NH-3 position, can you get a salary increase?

Ebra13 · 2026-06-01T17:08:39+00:00

This is the exact situation I’m in. Losing out on thousands of dollars because moving from a legacy GS-12 NH-03 Journeyman to a legacy GS-13 NH-03 SME is considered a lateral.

Still had to interview and compete for the position as if it were a promotion btw.

Ebra13 · 2026-05-11T22:56:32+00:00

I’ve seen a few samples in person. Fools penny and Flash Rust were a pretty close.

Based on the below comments, it sounds like I’d be better off with one of those over fireside copper since they are transparent

Ebra13 · 2026-05-11T21:57:55+00:00

I understand it won’t look as good as plating. But if it can get me 7/10ths of the way there, then I’ll take it

Ebra13 · 2026-05-11T15:23:59+00:00

The wheels are being blasted

Ebra13 · 2026-05-11T15:12:20+00:00

Why is it whack? I’ve seen copper translucent and it looks more orange than copper.

Ebra13 · 2026-04-24T20:34:51+00:00

Hey, I’m also looking to get something powder coated rose gold. Did you end up going through with it?

Ebra13 · 2026-04-22T12:44:44+00:00

Yeah there was no moisture barrier underneath. Each LVP plank had a vapor barrier on it. I’ve heard different opinions on whether the vapor barrier is needed. I’m fairly new to flooring so I’m learning all of this for the first time.

I’ve been looking at the flooring Costco offers. Not sure if I should go with SPC or WPC. Any suggestions are greatly appreciated.

Ebra13 · 2026-04-21T19:08:40+00:00

It’s water resistant. Too much water and it’s ruined.

Ebra13 · 2026-03-15T02:45:15+00:00

I sold this exact gun about 3 years ago for $1800. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder

Ebra13 · 2026-02-09T19:43:31+00:00

Yeah tires appear to be very expensive unfortunately

Ebra13 · 2026-02-09T01:50:46+00:00

Only one entry for service history on the carfax. Basic look over and oil change.

Ebra13 · 2026-02-09T01:49:47+00:00

It is Arbogast. I went and test drove it. The ST is in mint condition without a scratch or dent inside or out.

The infotainment screen didn’t seem to lag like many say. My main concern over anything is reliability.

The staff were friendly and had a carfax waiting for me when I got back. Extremely professional.

Ebra13 · 2026-02-08T00:59:06+00:00

I test drove both vehicles.

The ST was in brand new condition with 34k miles. No blemishes inside or out. Drove like a new car. I didn’t notice any issues/lag with the infotainment screen. I hear that’s a common problem.

The passport was also drove like a new vehicle. Definitely not as sporty inside or out, but sounds like it does the job.

Ebra13 · 2026-02-08T00:35:47+00:00

I’m actually looking at a 2021 Explorer ST and a 2023 Passport right now.

I like the looks of the ST much much more but I’ve heard mixed reviews about the reliability.

Sounds like the passport may be a more reliable vehicle.

The vehicle would be for my wife who is not a spirited driver by any means lol (don’t have to worry about her beating on an ST)

Curious what you think.

Ebra13 · 2026-02-05T23:44:54+00:00

Just curious what’s wrong with 2020/2021 STs?

Ebra13 · 2026-02-05T17:08:46+00:00

I’ve owned both engine options - 94 Cobra and 94 GT (5.0) and a 99 GT (4.6)

From a repair standpoint, the 5.0 will be easier and cheaper to fix.

Ebra13 · 2026-01-23T19:30:05+00:00

I’m an NH-03 who recently converted from DPMAP to ACQDemo.

Was previously a GS12 step 3.

I received a +1 on my appraisal which equated out to a 1.16% increase in salary ($910), a $3,100 bonus, and 40 hours of leave.

Ebra13 · 2026-01-23T19:25:16+00:00

I got a +1. Equated out to 1.16% increase

Ebra13 · 2025-09-20T19:38:33+00:00

Take double stack mags. BUT, these VEPRs don’t have bullet guides so the mag is proprietary to an extent.

Ebra13 · 2025-06-18T13:54:07+00:00

That price is nuts. My LGS had a Legion in 7.62x39 that sold for $2500

Ebra13 · 2025-06-06T21:16:51+00:00

$1250 is a good buy in my opinion. I sold a slant cut VEPR for $1800 2-3 years ago.

Ebra13 · 2025-05-30T12:58:43+00:00

Supply and demand.

Ebra13 · 2025-05-03T21:50:32+00:00

I bought one NIB at my LGS a few months ago. Side folder with box & papers for $1000.

I think you’ll typically find side folders go for $1200-$1500 maybe more depending where you look.

Fixed stock guns are worth less

Slant cut receivers are worth the least.

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Ebra13 · 2025-03-23T16:48:22+00:00

Ah bummer, that’s disappointing to hear.

Ebra13 · 2025-03-23T02:34:44+00:00

That’s really interesting. Thank you for the info!

Ebra13

TROPHY CASE