Introduction

This week's Odds & Ends roundup brings together a curious mix of history, practical skills, and internet culture. From vintage transportation tales to hands-on skill guides, there's something for every inquisitive reader.

What Happened

A YouTube creator recently rode a freight train through Tulsa, Oklahoma, shining a light on the still-active tradition of rail riding—an practice many thought vanished with the 1930s but persists into 2026. The ride offers a rare perspective on a hobby that's as perilous as it is intriguing.

For those looking to build practical skills, a new lock-picking training kit features a transparent lock body, allowing learners to watch tumbler pins shift in real time as they work with a tension wrench and four precision picks. The clear design makes the mechanics impossible to miss.

History and military enthusiasts are digging into Boyd: The Fighter Pilot Who Changed the Art of War, a biography of John Boyd, an Air Force ace who never lost in mock dogfights and pioneered the OODA loop now central to modern warfare doctrine. The book has also inspired several Art of Manliness articles, including 'To Be or to Do' and a deep dive into the OODA loop itself.

Gamers looking to kill time can try Unusual Suspects, an online game that asks players to sketch a suspect based on vague witness descriptions. The reveal usually features cartoon or brand characters, leading to plenty of laughs when your drawing bears little resemblance to the actual answer.

The latest Dying Breed newsletter featured two thought-provoking pieces: 'Humility: The World's Most Overrated Virtue' and 'Sunday Firesides: Time Itself Will Not Get You There,' sparking reflection on personal growth and life's bigger questions.

Why This Matters

These seemingly disparate topics share a common thread: they each offer a different lens on engaging with history, developing tangible skills, or simply finding a lighthearted way to unwind. Rail riding reminds us of persistent subcultures and the importance of safety awareness. Lock-picking kits lower the barrier to a once-niche skill, making it accessible for teaching and personal exploration. The OODA loop biography highlights how one individual's innovative thinking can reshape entire institutions. Even a simple sketch game reveals how perception often diverges from reality.

Key Takeaways

  • Rail riding remains active in 2026, but it's illegal and dangerous—always prioritize safety.
  • Transparent lock-picking kits provide a clear visual learning experience for beginners.
  • John Boyd's OODA loop continues to influence military strategy and decision-making far beyond aviation.
  • Unusual Suspects proves that even simple games can highlight the gap between perception and reality.
  • Newsletter highlights on humility and time management offer timely food for thought.

Conclusion

Whether you're drawn to true-life adventures, skill-building tutorials, or casual online games, this week's Odds & Ends offer a little something for everyone. The common thread is curiosity—exploring new perspectives, building practical knowledge, and finding small moments of engagement in a busy world.