Les Crider-(Guitar, Mandolin) Les has been playing guitar since he was 15 years old.  His major influences include Johnny Cash and Chet Atkins.   This is evident in his picking style.  More recently Les  has taught himself to play his tater bud mandolin to add a little variety. The instrument, as interesting as the faces Les makes when he plays, is nearly a century old and once belonged  to his uncle. 
    Being a genuine college educated history major, Les provides many of the "stories behind the songs".
    Les is retired after a 38 year career with The Social Security Administration.  He is the husband of Linda,  the father of two and grandfather of many, we lost count, 9 is it now?

Dennis Porterfield-(Whalebone Bass, Mule Jawbone, Washboard, etc.) Dennis likes to sing.   Whether leading singing at church  or singing on the assembly line at G.M.  He is the newest member of HARDTACK. He was recruited based on his singing experience with a gospel quartet, and the song he wrote, “Let’s Feed the Chickens”. (actually played on the radio once in Southern Mo.)  At first he sang.   Then he began picking up various “musical instruments” from dumpsters and butcher shops.  He knocked  things together, until Les and Duane finally  presented him with a bona-fide instrument, the washtub bass.  He was obviously moved.
    Dennis is a proud member of the UAW Local 31.  He has worked for General Motors, Fairfax Division for 27 years.  He is married to Monica, has three grown children and one granddaughter.
Duane Porterfield-(Guitar, Banjo, Mt. Dulcimer, Bagpipes, etc.) When Duane was in the fifth grade, Les taught him to play “Wildwood Flower” on the guitar.  Years later, here they are.  Duane plays a variety of folk instruments.  The mt. dulcimer and old time banjo have gained him awards including Kansas state champion , Southern Regionals mt. dulcimer champion and National mt. dulcimer finalist.
   Duane is a 28 year veteran of the Kansas City, Ks. Police Department.  He is currently assigned to the Police Academy as a range officer and fire arms instructor.  He is a bagpiper with the Police Department’s Honor Guard, a privilege within duty.
   Duane is married to Cindi.  Their family includes four children, eight grandchildren, and one dog