There is something special about that perfect concealed carry weapon. Firepower, comfort, and concealability come together into a trifecta that makes it easy to carry your self-defense with you everywhere. Not many handguns meet this criteria, but the Glock has long been a frontrunner in the concealed carry world. Compact enough to wear all day, it is also stupidly simple to use and one of the most reliable and accurate workhorses out there. But WHICH Glock do you choose?
When it comes to concealed carry, the choice is really down to the 9 mm Baby Glocks, the Glock 26 and the Glock 43. As some of the smallest and lightest Glocks on the market, they also carry a powerful punch and all of the features that make Glock, well, Glock. Here is a look at the admittedly small differences between the two, and what you might want to weigh when deciding which to add to your EDC lineup.
Specification | Measurement |
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Barrel Length | 3.43 inches |
Overall Length | 6.5 inches |
Width | 1.26 inches |
Height | 4.17 inches |
Weight (Unloaded) | 19.4 oz |
Obviously, the smaller a handgun, the easier it will be to carry concealed. You have to worry less about printing on clothing, uncomfortable angles jabbing you in the waist or hip, and wearing just the right shirt and pants. When it comes to size, both the Glock 26 and the Glock 43 are subcompact gems that dial in at a low weight and length.
Specification | Measurement |
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Barrel Length | 3.41 inches |
Overall Length | 6.26 inches |
Width | 1.06 inches |
Height | 4.25 inches |
Weight (Unloaded) | 16.23 oz |
As you can see, the Glock 43 is a little bit smaller in all areas than the Glock 26, making it the more manageable option out of the two. If you think a few ounces or a half an inch doesn't make much difference, then I challenge you to carry a slightly heavier gun all day, every day, and see how it feels. The reality is those small differences can make concealed carry noticeably more comfortable over the course of the day, week, month, and year. And the more comfortable you are, the more often you will carry. Capacity When it comes to size, there is one factor to consider - The capacity of the gun.
The smaller size of the Glock 43 is due in large part to the fact that it is a single stack weapon, while the Glock 26 has a double stack magazine. That gives the Glock 43 40 percent LESS capacity (4 fewer rounds) than the Glock 26. The former can hold 6 rounds, and the latter 10. Capacity is also greater in the Glock 26 because this weapon can take longer magazines for expanded capacity. Depending on the magazine you choose, you could carry up to 12 + 1 rounds in your weapon. That gives you a lot of firepower at your fingertips. Just be aware that the larger the mag you add, the more weight you add to your weapon as well. Balancing the need for capacity with the need for a compact and lightweight weapon is a very personal choice. Just understand the give and take that occurs when making it.
Another factor to consider, that CAN be influenced by even minor differences in otherwise very similar guns, is the ability to comfortably handle the weapon when you need to draw it. A gun that hides perfectly beneath your shirt will not do you much good if it slips out of your hand when drawing or has a trigger that is hard to press. And when the rubber hits the road, you want to be hitting your targets, quickly and accurately.
While both Baby Glocks boast the proven reliability that have made Glocks a preferred law enforcement weapon, you may find one easier to handle than the other based largely on the size of your hand. With a grip thickness that is 18 percent less than the Glock 26, the Glock 43 is easier to hold if you have small hands. However, larger hands should have no trouble grasping the slightly larger thickness of the Glock 26. In addition, recoil is a consideration, particularly if you want to follow up your initial shot quickly during target practice or a real-life self-defense encounter. Both of these weapons will deliver a little more recoil to your wrist, thanks to the thinner slide. And, no matter which weapon you choose, look for a model that comes with finger grooves for more secure handling.
The good news is that you can't really make a bad choice between the Glock 26 and the Glock 43. Both subcompact gems are reliable, easy to find, and come in several different models so you can find the best combination of features for your EDC. Ultimately, the choice is yours. Do you want a slightly larger gun and more capacity? Do you prefer lightweight and concealable over all? Try out both and see which one gives you better comfort and control when handling. No matter what decision you make, make sure you keep carrying - And training - To stay prepared for whatever comes your way.
]]>As a revered icon among handguns, the 1911 has been loved for well over 100 years. As one of the most enduring designs ever implemented, it still rivals the Glock for versatility and popularity for everything from intense training to competition shooting and even the rigors of daily concealed carry. If you want a handgun that has stood the test of time, and will reliably go off every time you pull the trigger today, you want a 1911. What makes this iconic design so popular year after year (after year after year)?
Feature | Measurement |
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Barrel | 3.25 in. |
Overall Length | 6.75 in. |
Overall Height | 5.25 in. |
Width | 1.4 in. |
Weight (Empty) | 27 oz. |
The Wilson Combat SFX9 is a reimagined 1911 design that comes in a little bigger and heavier than other compact weapons but feels and looks delightfully portable, thanks to its small barrel and impeccably crafted details in the grip and chamber. This 9mm, 15 + 1 capacity weapon continues the tradition of the 1911 with impeccable accuracy that will make your other EDC handguns look like they are laying down on the job. The only thing this handgun lacks? The outdated grip safety, which has been replaced with a smooth-as-butter slide and thumb side safety. Expect to pay a retail price of $2,995 for a weapon that not only fits your concealed carry needs perfectly but also offers a great return on your investment.
Feature | Measurement |
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Barrel | 3.3 in. |
Overall Length | 6.8 in. |
Overall Height | 4.8 in. |
Width | 1.4 in. |
Weight (Empty) | 28 oz. |
Available in .45 ACP and 9mm, the Sig Sauer 1911 Ultra Compact fits an impressive 8 rounds into its diminutive size. Choose between an all-black and two-tone version. Both come with an alloy grip frame and the 1911's signature accuracy. Unlike other short-barrelled 1911 models, this one requires no special fussing to get it to operate perfectly and hit your target, every time. this one operates perfectly, with feed and eject movement that occurs without any hiccups. Expect an extended thumb safety, a beavertail grip safety, a smooth firing experience with manageable recoil. Expect to pay a retail price of $1,119.
Feature | Measurement |
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Barrel | 3.5 in. |
Overall Length | 7.25 in. |
Overall Height | 5 in. |
Width | 1.45 in. |
Weight (Empty) | 25 oz. |
Lightweight and compact, the Dan Wesson 1911 ECO Sub-Compact is a 9mm, 8-round testament to the 1911 legacy. Immediately favorable features of this gun, which also looks and feels like quality, are the rounded butt that reduces clothing printing and the finely machined non-slip grip that gives the gun a hold that is both comfortable and reliable. Upon testing on the range, this weapon will prove itself to be impeccably accurate, with a smooth trigger and a quick reset barrel for rapid shots. At a retail price of $1,623 this weapon offers the advantages of a 1911 in a form that is easy to carry and draw.
Feature | Measurement |
---|---|
Barrel | 3 in. |
Overall Length | 6.75 in. |
Overall Height | 5.13 in. |
Width | 1.25 in. |
Weight (Empty) | 24 oz. |
One of the most lightweight and compact pistols on our list, the Colt Defender Sub-Compact 1911 is an 8-round, 9mm gem of a handgun. Ideal for self-defense, this weapon does more than plink around on the range. It delivers reliable, accurate shots with an exceptionally responsive trigger and an ease of draw that is hard to match with other handguns. While it may take you some time to get used to the sights on this gun, once adjusted, you should find that they improve your accuracy and your overall experience. Plus, a comfortably ergonomic design makes this a treasure to handle. Expect to pay a retail price of about $949 to make this part of your EDC lineup.
Feature | Measurement |
---|---|
Barrel | 3 in. |
Overall Length | 6.8 in. |
Overall Height | 4.75 in. |
Width | 1.28 in. |
Weight (Empty) | 25 oz. |
An aluminum frame turns this 1911 subcompact into a lightweight powerhouse. Plus, it carries a tone of elegance and beauty that reflects the high quality with which this handgun is crafted. When appropriately broken in, the gun is almost entirely reliable and will not jam. The trigger action is crisp, the barrel is narrow for easier concealed carry, and the 8 rounds are enough for self-defense and protection. Expect to pay about $1,120 for this trustworthy self-defense weapon. What is your favorite compact 1911? Let us know. We love to hear your perspective. Need a new 1911 holster? Check out the ones on this list. You might just find your new favorite EDC weapon.
]]>Across all of the X-Macro series thus far, there are many differences compared to the original P365.The P365 X-Macro is substantially larger, with a 17-round magazine (two are included) rather than a 10- or 12-rounder.But it’s still compact at 6.6 inches overall, with a tidy 3.7-inch barrel. At 22 ounces unloaded, it weighs about 25% more than its P365 predecessor. Its frame is long enough to have a Pic rail, expanding the options of lights that can be attached as compared to the small P365. Sig Sauer advertises this gun as the most concealable 17+1 capacity handgun on the market.
Improved triggers are becoming common in line extensions nowadays, and this gun is no exception. Sig chose a modern flat-face trigger that many people prefer. if it operates at least as well as the curved one in my 365, it’ll be just right for both defensive and range use.
Like other guns in the 365 line, the X-Macro has black Nitride finish on the slide and low-profile tritium night sights, front and back, come standard. A significant update is that every X-Macro comes red dot-ready with Shield RMS-c compatibility.
Other changes are the addition of a M1913 Picatinny rail, making the X-Macro capable, if not front-heavy in appearance, of carrying a full size light. It’s 5.2 inches in height, most of that of course being a longer grip which sports a single finger groove that’ll go between the middle and ring finger for most shooters. Three choices of interchangeable backstraps, a critical factor for those relying on their weapon for concealed carry purposes are included. As expected with carry guns, it’s offered with or without a thumb safety.
We need to talk about this gun’s shape. Sig kept the fairly straight grip angle of the P365, but added a beavertail for those meaty-handed folks who need one. To my eyes, it looks more like a compact P320 than a 365. Considering the fairly steady stream of negative press rooted in what to be a quality control issue for P320 manufacturing, at least in the opinion of myself and a number of other people in the industry, putting the 365 label on this gun makes sense from a marketing standpoint.
If you like a 1911-ish grip angle and need something a little bigger to be comfortable shooting your concealment gun, the Sig Sauer P365-XMacro is worth a look. Unless you’re in a hurry, it’s generally a good idea to wait at least a year after the release of a new model to be sure any issues can be worked out as the manufacturer deals with any trends in warranty claims. As of this writing, the base model market price is consistent around $650. Compensated and optic-equipped models can be up to $1,000.
Specifications: Sig Sauer P365-XMacro
Caliber: 9mm Luger
Magazines: 17 round (2 included)
Sights: X-Ray3 Day/Night Sights
Optic Footprint: Shield RMSc
Threaded Barrel: No
Pistol Size: Compact
Overall Length: 6.6 inches
Overall Height: 5.2 inches
Width: 1.1 inches
Weight: 22 ounces
Barrel: Carbon Steel, 3.7 inches
Accessory Rail: M1913
Trigger action: Striker
Trigger Type: Black
Frame Material: Polymer
Fire control Unit: Stainless steel
Slide: Stainless steel with Nitron finish
Manual Safety: Optional
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When it comes to carry ammo, many people prefer the 124 Grain Gold Dot Speer. However, the 115 Grain JHP may prove to be a more powerful choice. By delivering superior velocity and energy delivery upon impact, this ammo is a force to be reckoned with in a conflict. Watch this video by Abner Miranda to learn why he prefers the 115 Grain JHP for his weapons.
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Life is busy so when you hit the range you want to get as much training in as you can with the time that you have. That means little tasks like replacing the shielding tape over your fiber optic RMR can be annoying. What if you didn’t have to use tape at all? Check out this video by Abner Miranda to find out what experience has taught him about taping over your fiber optics.
]]>Sometimes, the act of carrying a gun can be perceived as an act of fear. Far from it. Instead, concealed carry, and all the training and preparation that come with it, is an act of preparation. We want to be ready to counteract evil when it appears, and we want to be ready to protect our loved ones if it becomes necessary. In this video by Abner Miranda, explore more the thinking behind concealed carry, and its necessity in this day and age.
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Life is busy so when you hit the range you want to get as much training in as you can with the time that you have. That means little tasks like replacing the shielding tape over your fiber optic RMR can be annoying. What if you didn’t have to use tape at all? Check out this video by Abner Miranda to find out what experience has taught him about taping over your fiber optics.
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We’ve all been taught that no matter how your firearm comes up you should push through and fire. This type of rote doctrine has been passed down for generations as a way to prepare you for high-pressure situations when you don’t have time to perfect your fine motor skills. In this video, Abner Miranda debunks this misconception, pointing out that pulling a trigger and pressing a mag catch are, in fact, fine motor skills that every gun owner should perfect. Most importantly, bad reps are a waste of good ammo, and it’s best to simply reset and try again.
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You don't need tactical gloves on the range - But you do need gloves. And not just any gloves. The best pair should fit every curve of your hand and fingers, give you total control over your weapon, and be tough enough to keep you safe from the nicks and scratches that pop up on the range. In this video by Abner Miranda, discover why Maxiflex Ultimate gloves - Typically used in manufacturing - are ideal for the range, too. Give them a try!
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Movement affects your shooting, so move purposefully, decisively, and quickly. In this video with Abner Miranda, explore how precise and thoughtful movements can cut down on your shooting time and improve your accuracy. While you will rarely be moving and shooting simultaneously, learning to move with confidence and precision can make you a better handler of your weapon. Improve your training and your performance - Abner Miranda, and his years of experience, is here to help.
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Tiny handguns can be a popular choice for a variety of reasons, but they’re not without their fair share of drawbacks. In this vlog, Abner Miranda explains why pocket rocket guns are not the best option based on his own field testing. He highlights issues such as limited capacity, poor handling, and unsuitability for quickdraws as some of the main reasons why anyone looking for a handgun should consider more standard-sized options.
]]>Ported handguns, which expel gasses from the chamber as the bullet passes through, prevent recoil and muzzle flipping. But, in a combat self-defense situation, you may run the risk of shooting your gun in such a way that you blow these high-powered gasses into your face. In this video by Abner Miranda, discover a different way to maintain control of your muzzle, without needing to rely on a ported weapon.
]]>In the first two parts of this series on security for houses of worship, I provided information to help churches define their needs and begin, or deepen, their security plan using people and/or physical assets. This section diverges from the theme of thinking about your own faith institution. A recent study offers a look at trends in church security at a national level. Its results are evidence of growing concern for church safety.
This study excites the data nerd in me because it’s quite well-designed and was conducted to a high standard of scientific integrity. In 2019 and again in 2022, Nashville-based research company Lifeway performed surveys of 1,000 churches. This sizable sample included churches in urban, suburban, and rural areas, with congregations identified by race as well has having conservative, liberal, or moderate political views, and led by male and female clergy. The sample is also broken down by subsect, for example Lutheran, Methodist, and others, although every one of the respondents is described as Protestant. By identifying these and other variables, statisticians can pinpoint any trends tied closely to these factors.
Every study has limitations. By including only Protestant churches in the sample, we are left unable to infer assumptions about Catholic, Jewish, Islamic, or other non-protestant establishments. And because the research team doesn’t say the same churches were sampled on both years, this study falls short of being longitudinal in nature. Longitudinal research examines the same factor at the subsequent session(s) as it did the first time, making it the gold standard of research, as well as relatively rare, difficult to conduct, and costly. Further, there is no discussion of whether any security measure was successful in reducing the number or severity of problems, a nearly impossible outcome to evaluate using statistics and a national sample.
To be clear, the Lifeway studies and retrospective report look to be robust in scientific rigor. Their methos yielded the advantage of following every church over time to gain the significant advantage of a large respondent group, lending confidence that the results are not just the happenstance of a couple unique congregations, but truly reflective of what’s going on in the nation with security in Protestant churches.
With the nerdspeak aside, I’ll let the tables provided by the research firm speak for themselves.
If you’d like to look further into this topic, check out the source information for this article at the Lifeway website. It includes links to the individual studies that “drill down” to trends within, say, female- versus male-led churches and other such variables.
What do you think of these trends? Do they resemble the changes or current state of security practices in your own faith community?
It’s usually easier to broach serious subjects when they can be addressed, in part, with data to back up a proposal. This information is shared in hopes that it might be useful if your role includes planning for church security.
]]>Carrying a rifle in a vehicle presents the very obvious question - Where should you carry it? In this video by Abner Miranda, discover how traditional methods of in-vehicle rifle carrying can damage the barrel of your rifle. It might be time to consider a less damaging way to make your rifle part of your vehicle's daily load.
]]>The Glock 42 was once big news. It was the company’s first 380 ACP caliber model offered to the American market, and the first micro-compact Glock for Americans as well. Released in 2014, the G42 was an instant hit, being the first widely available gun of its size to have the features and operation of a full-size or compact semiauto. It was enthusiastically adopted as an EDC gun by many experts and beginners, myself included. Is it still a good choice today? I believe it has a place, but that place is no longer at the top of my personal EDC choices.
Let’s take the time machine back to 2014. The only really small guns on the market require compromise. There are plenty of five-round revolvers, mostly in .38 Special, that are small but chunky and heavy. There are very concealable 380 semi-autos as well, and a smattering of 32 ACPs of the same size. Some, like Ruger’s LCP, have so many safety features that they’re nearly impossible to operate in a timely manner and discourage training because they can’t be dry fired. Their sights are mostly molded into the slide and so small as to be impractical to actually use. Many have a double action trigger pull that feels like a long walk, making accuracy difficult. Some have no slide lock at all or, again in the example of the LCP, one so small that most users never realize it’s there. Some have magazines that were intended to be ergonomic but actually cause pain when inserted properly. If you could find it, Kahr had a micro- compact, 6+1 CW that was, and still is, a functional double action option. It was released less than a year before the Glock 42, but remains relatively unknown.
In the pre-2014 concealed carry dark ages, carrying concealed meant choosing between one of these mostly terrible “mouse guns,” packing a one- or two-shot derringer, or finding a way to lug around a larger “compact” gun such as the Glock 19.
As an early adopter of the G42, I was very disappointed in the reliability of my first one. Grip can always affect the performance of a 380 pistol thanks to its relatively weak blowback. Even with that not being a factor, the gun would fail to cycle properly, most often offering either failures to extract or failure to feed a follow-up round with exasperating frequency, about one round in six. This happened with a variety of ammo brands and types. Without publicly announcing it, Glock apparently remedied something after the initial run of 42s were in circulation and complaints began. The newer ones identified by having advanced serial numbers, run much better. My own 42 was traded in for a newer model, which I still have.
To my mind, it is wise to consider the G42, and other 380s for that matter, a step up from a derringer, but inferior to today’s micro-compact 9mm guns like the Sig Sauer P365 and the many others that followed in its footsteps. Why? The cartridge is inherently weak compared to 9mm, requiring a solid grip and being less likely to stop threats wearing heavy clothing or a thick fat layer. Its point of impact is less predictable where distance shots are required, ballistic performance-wise. Finally, I remain distrustful of the G42’s reliability to some extent. Perhaps this is unfair but it’s based on the single sample of a student who brought her excellent-condition used 42 to the range. After about 500 rounds over two days of shooting, the gun simply doesn’t work well. It’s been cleaned more than once and is well- lubricated. But across two brands of FMJ and one brand of JHP we’ve tried in it, and three different magazines, one of which is mine so I’m sure it’s never been modified, the gun won’t run through an entire magazine without at least one failure. This may well be a magazine issue; we have used factory magazines only. This student insists her gun is the only one for her, so it has been my job to ensure she has an efficient malfunction clearance habit to accompany it (something every concealed carrier should have, but few bother to learn).
In the days when I carried a 42, I felt compelled to carry a second magazine. Six-plus-one is anemic, in my view. That was inconvenient but it was the order of the day. A handful of companies made higher- capacity magazines or replacement floorplates that extended capacity of the 42. I was provided one of these, which extended capacity to eight in the magazine and provided a place for the pinky to grip. Alas, the gun will only work with seven rounds in this contraption, and the aftermarket mag interferes with concealability, so I rarely use it.
After all that negative talk, I still have my 42. It serves as a back-up concealment gun in case my mainstay is ever broken or seized as evidence. Once in a great while, I wear it as a more concealable choice under a tight shirt. I feel a lot better with seven well-concealed rounds on me than I would a two- round derringer, and the G42 is lightweight and more suitable for hiding under clingy or thin fabrics. It fits in the holster-tights made by Springfield / DeSantis I covered in another article here, making it wearable while exercising. I’ve learned to appreciate the polymer sights, magazines, and mag release on any Glock because they don’t rust when exposed to sweat. Most importantly to me, the G42 works like any larger polymer-lower semiauto. The trigger feels close to the same, and though its slide and slide lock are small enough to require fingertip strength to use, these controls are just the same as my hands are used to. This reduces the practice requirement to run less-available and more expensive 380 ammunition.
As with most popular handguns, there are many choices of aftermarket accessories and holsters for the G42. My own copy has night sights rather than factory ones, the brand of which I’ve forgotten. Streamlight TLR-6 is a great choice of a weapon-mounted flashlight and/or laser for this gun. There are also numerous frame and slide color combos on the market.
If a micro-compact 9mm simply cannot fit into your wardrobe but something a little smaller will, and if you won’t or can’t compromise on that wardrobe, the Glock 42 may be the gun for you. In my opinion, it remains “best in class” even if the 380 class is less than ideal for self-protection. Accept its limitations and be prepared to deal with them. As of this writing in May 2023, market price base is around $400, with custom color models going as much as $100 more.
There are a couple kinds of crime gun owners should be concerned with. Violent crime and threats thereof are the reason most of us purchased a handgun in the first place. The other type of crime is the kind done by autocrats who seek to pass laws or even make policies that never see the inside of a room filled with people we elected to represent us. The latter is also robbery, but nearly always carries much lower risk to the perpetrators. It’s good to train for confrontations with the first type, and make a practice of engaging, with peaceful communications whenever possible, the second. However, I see many gun owners placing a veritable target on their backs when it comes to choices they make with seemingly simple items such as bumper or rear window stickers for their vehicles, doormats or other signage on their homes, and social media posts. Sure, we have free speech under the First Amendment. But we do not have protection from the consequences of that free speech. This has become a painfully prevalent matter among members of law enforcement, and it’s logical to assume Second Amendment supporters will bear the same prejudicial treatment under a system in which “woke” judges and prosecutors can exploit the chance to disarm a good person. In this way, many of them are simply well-dressed criminals who enjoy better working conditions than their street-creeping counterparts. Learning to think from the criminal perspective, regardless of the color of collar they wear, can only benefit the average gun owner who just wants to be left alone.
Personal beliefs made public through t-shirts, stickers, social media posts, and the like have become a legal minefield for gun owners. Educated concealed carriers have been advised not to be chatty with police post-incident. Today, even the things you say in solidarity, jest, or simple personal expression before an incident can increase your risk of crime or be brought to bear against you legally. Here are a couple ways that can happen.
Take a moment to think like a ne’er-do-well when it comes to the stickers some people affix to their vehicles to express pride in, well, pretty much anything. I’m talking about messages proclaiming stuff like Proud Parent of an Honor Student at Sunshine Elementary, or Spoiled Rotten Shih Tzu on Board, or those cutesy stick figures representing every member of the family including the cat. There’s a good chance someone reading this has a sticker on a vehicle window promoting their favorite gun brand.
There’s absolutely nothing wrong with pride in family, pets, and firearms. But the biblical adage “do not cast your pearls to swine” has real meaning when it comes to random public boasting as happens with stickers and, for that matter, social media posts shared with people you don’t know well. Thieves who seek to steal sporting goods, or worse, thieves who intend to harm families with disturbing or terrorizing communications or even abduction, are literally handed inside information by such signage. You may be tough and your family may be well-protected, but why put yourself and loved ones in a potential top picks group for criminal actors? Sure, it feels good to express pride, but feeding one’s ego by spreading it mindlessly to the public opens up risk that’s unnecessary.
These are typical examples of signage that celebrates the right of self-defense, and, when posted at the gate or door of private property, perhaps serves as a warning for literate and attentive would-be trespassers, burglars, and home invaders. Guns are among the top tools of empowerment, so why not shake that swag? Two reasons: let’s discuss.
The most likely and, at least for law enforcement, already-proven detriment of promoting messages like this (which, ridiculously can even include “liking” such a message on social media), falls into the same category as what the Miranda Warning tells us: anything you say (or post, or like) can be used against you in the court of law. Even the choices we make for gun or range accoutrements can fall into this category. Consider the case of the police officer who, after an apparently justified discharge of his rifle in the direction of a threat, became the “criminal” of a case that involved the message You’re F#@$ed embossed on the inside of the chamber dust cover. While a range of emotions can be associated with the use of deadly force, and can be considered normal by those who understand its subtleties, silent solemnity is the only safe choice for public consumption.
In the history of the court of law, standards used to judge police officers where use of force is concerned are soon interpreted as applicable to armed citizens. It is now standard procedure in some hoplophobic law enforcement agencies to screen applicants’ social media for messages that express support of gun rights or the right of self-defense. There is recent history of some armed citizens’ social media posts being similarly scrutinized following defensive use of a gun, in a twisted game of searching for “intent” to harm another. Gun owners are living in veritable enemy territory now as the system that is supposed to seek justice for violent crime is increasingly motivated to take a shorter, simpler route of of painting lawful gun ownership and use as somehow suspect. In the course of doing so, some of those campaign promises of being “tough on gun crime” are fulfilled in a corrupt manner.
The second reason is simple: by giving a generic warning to onlookers or visitors, I yield the element of surprise. Sure, maybe the literate, risk-averse burglar is discouraged. But the prepared criminal has been put on notice that ambush or immediate disarmament of me is their first order of business. This is one case in which I prefer the unprepared, for obvious reasons.
Finally, there is substantial evidence that gun-related signage invites theft, or at least has no discouraging effect. Take in any of the several interviews with imprisoned serial burglars that have been put on record in the last two decades. Not one states they passed up a house because of pro-gun signs posted at the entrance. By contrast, many cars sporting gun brand stickers have been broken into in hopes of stealing that very product.
Yes, I love mine as well. And while all of the above is shared with you, dear reader, as a cautionary tale, I’d be hypocritical to say I don’t sometimes advertise a gun brand on my baseball cap or a slightly provocative saying on a patch (my personal fave: Let’s Party Like It’s 1776).
So what gives? What good is pride if we don’t show it? Let’s think for a moment about a concept you’re probably familiar with: virtue signaling. Gun and self-defense messages are our own version of that practice. My personal choice is to sport those items when I know I’m in like-minded or at least open-minded company, where perhaps gun-positive messages strengthen camaraderie or contribute some humor to the day. I attempt to keep the messaging neutral when wandering the virtual pigsty of the public arena. Do I do a perfect job of maintaining these boundaries? No. I’ve stopped by the store on the way home from the range on many occasions in shirts bearing bold-size semi-auto rifle or handgun images. Am I aware that this simple act of free speech can put me at greater risk of crime from both street criminals and “suits?” Yes. Is there any benefit to these things in the public arena? None that I can think of. A fellow concealed carrier doesn’t know if I’m actually carrying or if I’m competent with that gun.
We live in a country that was founded and designed with individual liberty and responsibility in mind. This article is not meant to judge your choices. I respect them. It is only a wider consideration of eventual possibilities that I encourage you to consider if you haven’t already. There’s room for all of us on the spectrum of opinion.
]]>Writer for Guns & Ammo, Joe Kurtenbach has been following our products since the early days, providing expert analysis and reviews for the uninitiated and seasoned gun enthusiasts alike. In his latest write-up, he took the Torsion IWB Holster for Glock 19 and variants for a 60-day test run. He was impressed with the level of detail and refinement that went into the design and how secure it felt considering the asking price, and calls it “... without question, one of the best holsters in its price class.”
Read his full review.
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It is true that many individuals prefer the 300BLK over the 5.56mm, but it is also true that the 5.56mm has a decided advantage - It is more available. When the pandemic hit and ammunition was hard to find, the 5.56 ammunition was still on the shelves. Investing in firearms that use this type of "bread and butter" ammo can make it easier to get what you need. Watch this video by Abner Miranda to learn more!
]]>Once you are aware of the violent threats that may face your congregation, you need to take steps to make carrying out violent acts within the church more difficult. Explore some of these steps in this blog.
]]>In the first installment of this two-part series on securing the house of worship, we discussed the classification of likely threats to safety. Please read that article first. As before, “church” is the term used here to encompass any faith-based establishment, and it refers to both the physical and human body of that house, as applicable.
This half of the series gives considerations for making a plan, which I’ve categorized into two pieces: hardening the physical target and mobilizing people. A third factor, culture, is an over-arching and undeniably influential factor that each faith community will couch its efforts within.
Have a check/double check procedure for the locks of every entrance to the facility. Install exit-only doors throughout as soon as the budget permits. Entrances left unlocked before and during church services should be monitored by greeters. Entrances should be promptly locked after a walk-through when services conclude and people leave.
Plan ahead to identify escape routes in addition to the entrance(s) most people use. Ensure they are not blocked when services are underway. Volunteer security team members should be prepared to guide people to these exits. This serves safety purposes beyond a violent attack. Fires and some natural disasters are also good reasons to have multiple exits and a plan to use them.
Identify areas of hard cover that people or children who cannot escape, in the case of an active shooter event, can hide behind. Have tools for locking down doors and ensure staff have immediate access, willingness, and the knowledge to use them. There are many methods for this and many are free or use existing resources like chairs or belts.
Other considerations apply to church offices that are open during the week. As with many offices, the receptionist is usually the most vulnerable person. Ways to not be cornered, to get behind cover, and to control access into the building should be discussed and acted upon by church leadership.
Cameras have little deterrent effect in today’s world, and constantly monitoring them in a timely fashion is an unrealistic expectation They should be considered an aid to solving crime, not prevention.
A door-securing protocol is key, but not in fallible, usually thanks to staff activity. Necessity, i.e. moving loads into or out of the building, convenience, a sense of entitlement, and complacency can lay waste to the best protocols. Do not let exceptions become common.
The first church members that a person encounters upon entry, i.e. greeters, ushers, and the like, should be selected in part on their willingness and ability to identify potential problem individuals and, when necessary, “ride herd” on that person, perhaps by staying by their side during the entire service, and selecting seating locations that limit that person’s access to the crowd or the podium/alter area where most choose to stage violent acts. This could be framed as showing a troubled person so much love that it's simply too much work to be violent.
Some who are reading this may be under the incorrect assumption that a good violence prevention greeter or usher is always a young-ish male. We have all seen some people who respond better to younger or older mentors, or better to women or men. Physical stature is not necessarily a requirement to be a good identifier of pre-attack indicators, a good communicator capable of re-framing or deescalating disruptive tendencies.
Contracted, uniformed security is an option if the budget allows. There are advantages to having a neutral party patrol the area and not feel the need to attempt to feed their own spiritual needs while looking out for problems. And the sight of a guard is a deterrent effect for some offenders. But for the most dangerous ilk, an armed guard is simply the first obstacle to eliminate or slip by, as they cannot be everywhere all the time.
Volunteers within the church are often eager to take security into their own hands, and derive unrealistic confidence from having a gun while paying little mind to the value of early identification and re-direction of a threat.
Armed volunteers should have had a background check and undergo regular training, including scenario and post-incident training. They should be able to pass a typical police shooting qualification. Armed and unarmed people who are willing to perform post-incident response (stop massive blood loss; communicate effectively but minimally with first responders) should be trained to stop massive blood loss and carry or have access to quality tourniquets that will fit the smallest to largest church attendees. (Ironically, most people who aren’t interested in carrying a gun are also not interested in learning to stop blood loss, but it never stops me from offering the training).
Be aware that some attendees who are not security volunteers might produce guns of their own from concealment during a critical incident. The sight of a gun is NOT an automatic indicator to shoot! By the same token, volunteers should be adept at gun handling in a place where there is no safe direction to aim the muzzle. Gun handling should encompass more training time than marksmanship for most people, especially those who have thoughts of protecting lives beyond their own families.
There are many examples today of good and legal procedures and ways to document who is permitted to pick up children from church. Find one and use it in a way that makes sense for your church’s programs.
Especially in churches where non-members can wander in from the street and use restrooms, do not allow children to go into bathrooms alone. In some cases, adults should go accompanied as well. A volatile person is much less likely to act out when there are witnesses.
Every security plan for a church is couched within its church culture. Some leadership styles are more conducive to a solid security plan than others. Every plan will require adjustments over time.
Churches that want to engage in a robust volunteer team should plan in investing in training and hold members accountable for participation. It will come as no surprise to church leaders that interest in a volunteer security effort can wane over time. It’s helpful to build both expectations and rewards into the program.
Pastors, priests, rabbis, etc. who take a primary leadership role in security can be effective if they acknowledge that they alone are often the target of violence, and like any other individual, have a limited view of what’s going on in the building, and thus should share or allocate responsibility.
Team leaders should decide how to communicate with the congregation at large about responding to threats. In some congregations, concealed carriers outnumber security volunteers or paid guards. This can be both an asset and a risk. In geographic areas where hoplophobia reigns, it may be upsetting to the church body to even disclose the presence of an armed volunteer or to hire a guard. Church cultures that take an uninformed view of violence are likely to fail at preventing or effectively dealing with it.
This is just a cursory list of considerations. The best way for a church to fail from a security standpoint is to rely only on prayer. In saying that, I mean no disrespect to churchgoers or believers of any sort. What I am saying is that Willfully turning a blind eye to the nature of violence increases vulnerability to it. And the vast majority of potential violence is preventable through early identification and re-direction. This I know from personal experience as well as from experiences of churches with vigilant, effective uniformed guards and/or volunteers. ]]>
Crime directed at faith communities is no longer surprising. How can we prevent it? Discover some initial reflections in this first of three blogs on the subject.
]]>Churches, Temples, Synagogues—the physical and congregational aspects of them—exist within an outside world in which violence is an increasingly common form of problem-solving or personal expression. This has always been the case historically, but many Americans over the age of about 30 are shocked at the thought of violence within sacred spaces. We came up in an era during which violent threats to houses of worship, and the people in them, were virtually unheard of. In recent years, that has changed. Crime directed at faith communities is no longer surprising to anyone who stays aware of such incidents. So, what to do? Anyone reading this post in a gun blog might respond with “get a gun.” But just as with personal protection, security for faith facilities is not that simple.
The purpose of this three-part series is to take a 30,000-foot view of the matter, with the purpose of evoking thought and discussion at your own house of worship. For simplicity, “church” is the term used to cover any house of worship, inclusive of temples, synagogues, mosques, whatever term is used by the religious organization. The vast diversity of churches in the United States is not unlike the range of differences between families. Factors that are critical for one may be spurious for another. So these recommendations are very general, based on experiences I’ve had in conducting vulnerability assessments and providing training and follow-up with congregational teams with several churches, plus providing contract armed guard services for one church in particular.
Attacks on churches come from a handful of predictable sources. Although there is no rule saying a certain class of violence can’t ever happen at your church, it’s a good idea to devote more planning and resources to preventing likely problems. Here are likely categories of threats, at least in my experience:
This is the most common threat, and its timing is often predictable. Fortunately, with a good prevention strategy, most of these threats can be recognized and their ability to harm can be minimized and contained, nearly always while still exercising compassion and allowing for dignity. Modern history shows that risk of a violent attack from this segment of the population is greatest when they’ve recently been told “no” in terms of assistance with money or something closely associated with it. Additionally, individuals who experience potentially harmful delusions or auditory hallucinations commanding them to do harm are to be considered dangerous during that usually brief but dangerous phase of their illness or addiction. When money is of concern, services in which a collection plate is passed or moved from one room to another should recognize that time as a likely one to be targeted. Often, key people in the congregation or the minister/priest/rabbi are targeted at times when they are highly visible and/or gathered in the same place during church services.
Domestic violence and child custody issues can be at the root of threats that present themselves at church, where family members’ habits and locations are predictable, and where there may be increased access to a child because a teacher isn’t aware of the circumstances. People in the throes of family conflict can be very volatile and willing to exact violence on gatekeepers to reach their real target. While these threats are usually temporary, they are to be taken seriously. Tactful communication between paid and volunteer staff and the potential adult target(s) are key. The “need to know” and confidentiality principles should be exercised judiciously to prevent a security strategy from turning into gossip. A system of limited and supervised physical access, especially to children’s areas, by outsiders is the basis for prevention. A communication strategy for any paid or volunteer staffers noting a potential or unfolding problem is highly recommended.
Fortunately, these are the least common source of violence directed at faith communities. When this kind of attack happens, it is usually exacted upon churches, typically in urban or suburban locations, that have no plan for prevention, escape, or protection. Such attacks are often very bloody; in Europe some have included ritualistic murder. Vandalism of sacred objects is often included in these attacks. Vandalism of sanctuaries during an after-hours break-in is a related risk to the physical church that falls into this category.
Acknowledging the ancient truth that some parties harbor vile feelings for a given religious sect and are willing to do vile things to express those feelings, is the first step in preventing these attacks. While these ugly crimes are nearly always done ambush-style, it’s remarkable how many pre-attack indicators can be identified and risks eliminated with acknowledgement and a little study of the reality of violence. This is, of course, a cultural matter within the church to a large extent.
Improving safety of congregants and security of the facility should involve three factors These include:
In Part 2 of this article, these three factors will be addressed in greater detail. Has your church experienced a potential or verified threat? If so, which of the categories above does it fit into? If any threats repeatedly present themselves, have you observed any patterns in view of seasons, events in the surrounding community, or other things? Let us know in the comments.
]]>Ported handguns, which expel gasses from the chamber as the bullet passes through, prevent recoil and muzzle flipping. But, in a combat self-defense situation, you may run the risk of shooting your gun in such a way that you blow these high-powered gasses into your face. In this video by Abner Miranda, discover a different way to maintain control of your muzzle, without needing to rely on a ported weapon.
]]>Thinking about putting a red dot optic on your handgun? Then you should be thinking about how to put in the extra time to train with it - And here is why.
]]>Putting an optic on your handgun means putting in the work to become familiar with using it. But with the right optic, that work can be well worth it. A red dot optic can help you gain better visibility, especially if you have difficulty seeing your front side post. If you want to get the most proficiency and effectiveness out of your optic, then you need to practice regularly. Aim for every week or so if possible and discover all the benefits a red optic can offer you.
Because most violent crime happens at night, it is essential to have a good torch to help you see. Here are 5 reliable, easy flashlights to use.
]]>It’s not news that most violent crime happens at night. And one of the gun safety rules is, as I like to say it, Be sure of your target and what’s around it. For those of us who identify as human (and even those who don’t but obviously are), light is an essential. Without it, we can’t effectively differentiate between friend and foe, or even neutral parties and threats, in the dark. So ready access to a great flashlight is part of any solid personal defense plan.
Previous articles have discussed selecting a useful tactical flashlight as well as techniques for using one. This one provides information on the top five choices in the current market. Flashlight technology has come a long way in recent years, but some traits like sufficient brightness for target ID and straightforward operation, including limited functions that make use under stress as quick and easy as possible, remain top priority in the choices shown here.
In no particular order, here are current (spring 2023) recommendations for reliable, easy flashlights with an eye toward personal/home defense.
Superb portability and flexible application are the name of the game with this light. It’s got the pocket clip and tailcap switch for accessibility. Its tiny 2.2-inch midnight blue or titanium shell packs a USB-rechargeable RCR123 High Discharge battery to deliver a surprising maximum 800 lumens of brightness.
Foursevens made this light user-programmable so its six “on” modes (including strobe, flashing, and SOS) and four brightness levels won’t distract, assuming time is taken to program it. For situations not defense-involved, it has a handy magnetic rear cap and can assist to light up an area affixed to, say, an automotive frame or steel beam. It’s also compatible with the Foursevens headband. This little hottie of a light can be ordered direct for $70 for the Midnight color, or $110 for Titanium.
From this trusted name in flashlights comes another super-powerful, compact light that, if it’s like others I know from this brand, will hold up for a very long time. The PD36R is another rechargeable, with a 21700 Lithium Ion battery and charging cable included. Longer-than-expected runtime is a prime feature of this light. Fenix also throws in a lanyard, holster, a rubber switch boot, and replacement O-ring to maintain water resistance. This flashlight has a lighted indicator to let the user know when the battery is in need of a charge.
This light is purported to deliver a dazzling 1,600 lumens in “turbo” and strobe modes, with 960 feet of range. I have personally seen an earlier Fenix handheld work as a 100-yard shooting light when bigger, more costly lights failed to light up the range that far. So, I’m optimistic the PD36R is as bright as advertised. This light is an inch in diameter and 6.4 inches in total length—on the longer side among those in this list, but also a length many find easier to manipulate with a pistol in hand, especially during reloads. Its two-way clip is as handy for holding it on MOLLE or a ball cap brim as it is in a pocket. As of this writing, the PD36R is on sale for $99.95; representing a great deal on powerful lighting.
Replacing worn-out or poorly-recharging premium batteries is a challenge in some communities. That’s just one good reason to consider the Mini-Tac Pro 2AA from Nightstick, a growing and respected brand that keeps my own state’s (New Mexico’s) State Police supplied with weapon-mounted lights. While I’ve not owned a Mini-Tac Pro myself, I’ve had a great experience with the all-weather ready, reliable Nightstick flashlight that’s mounted on my carbine.
This six inch-long light has a midsection that’s skinny at 0.6 inches while the ends are just 0.8 in diameter. It’s housing is aluminum with a non-slip grip. This makes it a handy nighttime pistol partner or improvised striking tool. Its brightness is a modest 265 lumens; Nightstick brand proudly says they don’t exaggerate lumen measurements as some (of course unnamed) companies tend to. For in-home or small-yard defense, it’d be hard to go wrong with this light. Unfortunately, direct order is not an option, but the Nightstick website offers a dealer directory. This is also the most economical choice on our list. Shop hard online and you’ll find the Nightstick Mini-Tac Pro 2AA for less than $30.
Isn’t it nice when a product name is also a great description? Streamlight is one of the longstanding respected names in flashlights. I’ve personally owned many and can attest to their durability, especially considering their prices, which have not been inflated for the civilian market even though Streamlight enjoys serving a sizable chunk of the law enforcement and military contract markets. Their Macrostream USB Everyday Carry light is, as the name suggests, USB-rechargeable on its lithium ion battery. It has a two-way clip handy for pocket or brim/MOLLE carry.
This little, 4.5-inch long light delivers a surprising 500 lumens on high setting; 50 when subtle light is required. A charging cable is included, and this light has a battery charge status indicator. Streamlight makes a dedicated charger, available for separate purchase. While this light apparently doesn’t have a pressure-only on/off function on its tailcap switch, it can make a fine tactical light that’s backed by Streamlight’s lifetime warranty. Find this one using a web search; among those choices are one of my fave shops, LA Police Gear, which sells this light for $55.99.
There’s a decided lack of variety in light styles in this list, so I wanted to include a light that’s just right for those who like to be unique. And it’s one I’ve tested in its earlier version, and it was remarkably reliable and easy to use. Firstlight’s Torque LE is a light that’s hinged and made to be held in a “beer can grip” with the thumb on top. It has a handy, quick-release finger loop to keep it secure. This light has numerous light colors besides its 200-lumen white light, which with some practice is easiest to turn on first-and-only for defensive purposes. If camping, nighttime fishing/hunting, or the like are as important to you as defensive use, this might well be the light.
FirstLight is, in my estimation, one of the unsung heroes of the flashlight market and deserving of more popularity in the civilian market. Though this light is literally named for law enforcers, it makes a handy light for any self-reliant civilian too. Pick one up for $126.99 via direct order.
These are just a few of the dozens of good choices of handheld lights available today. Is the list missing a couple brands that seem like household names in the light industry? Yes, and that is strategic. Just like a gun used for personal protection, a light must first be reliable. A popular brand is not in this article as I’ve seen their new products fail regularly. Another is missing because they tend to charge inflated prices for lights with the same features as other top brands, and people I respect in this industry have also noticed that. This list is far from complete, but it’s done with the best interest of the civilian defender in mind.
Do you have an EDC light that’s served dependably in EDC for more than a year? Do tell the world about it in the comments.
I'm always startled at how quickly skills will degrade if you're not using them. I sang at church just a few days ago and found myself really wishing I'd been keeping up with my vocal calisthenics. Fortunately I was able to pull it out of the hat, but, it's getting harder to do that, the older I get. The same goes for my weapons employment skills. I know that a lot of people reading this are young and will have difficulty relating to where I'm coming from. Don't worry, you'll get there someday – soon. Believe me, “Someday” comes sooner than you think.
Whenever I get out on the range, I choose to be honest with myself and will get the cameras set up, and the targets painted over. I will then pull out my handgun and without even dry firing I will attempt to run the handgun combative, handgun standards. Sometimes I hit all the standards, the first time out. However, quite often I struggle a bit to make all the shots and times. I will admit that things have gotten a bit easier since I have started using an optic on my handgun. Why? Because optics on a handgun allow you to look at the target rather than at your front sight post.
The bigger thing that needs to be considered is the fact that working cold is very important. In the same manner that “the cold bore shot” is so important when you're talking about moderate distances with a rifle, working cold with your handgun is equally important. Why? Because, when skills are demanded of you will not have had a chance to do a dry run or set yourself up in the correct stance for what's about to come. When trouble comes looking for you, it will catch you when you're tired, angry from just having had an argument with a loved one and even potentially fighting a cold. So, when you get out to the range, do yourself a favor and inconvenience yourself by running a standards program without having practiced it first. Believe me, you'll never regret having put the work in.
]]>“The shakes.” It’s a condition I see in students on the regular. Many are rattled by their hand tremors, concerned that they won’t shoot well. Some are embarrassed. Some, usually brand new shooters, wonder if they’re suited for carrying a gun at all. This can be a sensitive topic, but it doesn’t have to be. What follows are some tools for dealing with the problem. I have used all of them, some almost weekly, with good success in helping people overcome this issue.
First, let’s define what we mean by “the shakes,” and who experiences it. In this article, “shakes” refer to fine tremors, usually limited to the hands. Closer to vibration than jostling or jerking, the movements I’m referring to are not so severe as to affect the person’s ability to hold the gun, nor are they severe enough to take away the conscious decision to place the finger either on the trigger or on the frame. People whose tremors are severe should not handle guns. But there are many, many others whose shakes are relatively less impactful. This article is for them.
In my experience, the most common form of shakes comes from anxiety. Trepidation is common among first-time shooters. Among the physical manifestations of nervousness are lack of breath control including holding the breath while shooting, drying of the eyes, narrowing of the pupils, accelerated heart rate, and of course, shaking.
The smaller lot of people with tremors are those living with a chronic medical condition, or medication side effects, that cause involuntary tremors. Parkinsonism is the term that refers to this type of tremor, among other symptoms, but we are focused strictly on tremors here. Some people with Parkinsonism have, as the name implies, Parkinson’s disease, and experience mild to severe tremors with its progression. Others in this category are usually taking, or have taken, medication that has certain benefits along with the unfortunate side effect of Parkinson-like tremors.
Other medical conditions that can cause tremors occasionally are things a little closer to being under our control, like sleep deprivation, low blood sugar, and excessive caffeine/energy drink consumption. While these tremors subside with better self-care, they are very real when they happen, though usually less severe than Parkinsonism.
The good news is, the fix is pretty simple, no matter which of the above categories might apply. Here are the steps, plus a little extra for those whose medical symptoms are more prominent.
Fix #1: Breathing Consciously. First, focus on breathing well. There’s an article on this blog dedicated just to this one marksmanship fundamental, but for now, here is the one-step recipe: put the tip of your tongue behind your top front teeth and inhale. That’s it.
The beauty of this breathing “technique,” if it can even be called that, is it will accomplish all you need it to immediately, and it’s easy to alternate between occasional inhalations when doing it intentionally while mostly being focused on applying the other marksmanship fundamentals like, say, grip and trigger control.
Will this breathing method fix Parkinsonism? Of course not. Will it keep the anxiety shakes from coming back if the shooter stops focusing on breathing and applying the fundamentals? No. Will it make the best performance under the circumstances possible? YES! Is breathing consciously entirely under the shooter’s control and ability to decide, no matter what the surroundings or their health or even their mood is? YES! So please, when the shakes or even a hint of anxiety hit, breathe with purpose as described here.
If you’re in a class, work-related qualification, or competition that requires shooting on command, time the inhalation with commands so it works to your benefit. For me, that’s when the “stand by” command is heard.
This method of conscious breathing works for two reasons. It naturally, without effort by mind or body, causes diaphragmatic breathing, which delivers much-needed oxygen to the capillaries of the fingers and even the eyes. These are obviously necessary tools to shoot well. In situations where stress may be more pressing than whether you hit the 10 ring on the target or not, i.e. a potential threat to your safety has arisen, this technique can help you stay in control of fine motor skills, keep peripheral vision intact to the extent possible, and help maintain good decision-making.
The other reason a good breathing habit (or at least having a breathing tool in your defensive toolbox, if not a habit) is useful is that it forces your mind to focus, only for a moment, on something other than potentially destructive ruminations. In range practice, when anxiety-based shakers express themselves aloud, it usually goes something like, “I know I’m going to miss, I can’t stop shaking.” In a defensive situation, destructive ruminations can grow into something like “there are two of them and they’re bigger than me, I’m screwed.” Left unchecked, such thoughts cycle over and over in the mind, getting bigger and more defeatist every second, and taking the good person behind the gun farther from success. Such “stinking thinking” has no place in good shooting or self-protection. And that leads to the second aspect of utilizing the breath correctly.
Fix #2: Stay on Breathe Street. If it’s your tendency to get caught up in that stinking thinking cycle, imagine navigating your train of thought as a highway you’re cruising, mentally anyway. Most people are victims of allowing the thought that goes something like “oh rats, I’m shaking. Oh rats, I’m going to miss” which turns into, “oh rats, I missed. I’m terrible at this. Now I’m shaking even more….” and so on. Soon, those endless, destructive ruminations cycle like the worst possible song on the car radio that can’t seem to be turned off.
Instead of allowing that terrible song, which nobody likes anyway, to keep playing, make it a partner of sorts. But put it in its place. The “oh rats, I’m shaking” thought, from this day on, is just a road sign on your highway. And it’s a sign that says, in your favorite GPS voice, “turn right onto Breathe Street.” And then, you know what to do now: tip of tongue behind top front teeth, and inhale.
Just try it. You can thank me later.
Fix #3: Focus on the front sight (or the targeted area being covered by the electronic dot). This fix is for every type of shaker. Once you’ve applied Fixes 1 and 2 above, as applicable, shift the focus of your mind to keeping the front sight (or dot sight) on target. If Parkinson’s-like tremors or temporary health issues are the problem, there’s nothing you can do to stop it anyway, but focusing on that little sight will put to rest your desire to fight the sight and keep it perfectly on target. (Pro tip: every living person has some uncontrollable movement in their body, so don’t feel alone in this. This fix is one that works for everyone). If nervousness is the problem, this, along with the Breathe Street exercise, is the cure, giving your mind a much nobler job to do than mess up your accuracy or even bring you down.
Fix #4: Use a shooting bag. This fix is one reserved for those without the strength to hold the gun up for long, which can lead to fatigue tremors, or those who have Parkinsonism. Just rest the grip on a shooting bag. It can be a stuffed bag of any sort, just keep it entirely behind the muzzle. With the bag on a tall table, car hood, or boulder, the shooter can stand and lean on the support. Or have them seated on a relatively low chair at a table with the bag on the table. My rifle shooting bag by Lyman doubled as a practice bag for my stepfather when his Parkinson’s symptoms had progressed, allowing him to experience the fun of a day at the range far longer than he could have without this prop.
While bagging the gun doesn’t translate very well to defensive practice, it does offer those with advanced symptoms a way to remain involved in a favorite pastime. And it can be safer for all involved if weakness or instability are affecting the shooter.
The techniques I’ve shared here may be simple, but they work, and fast. I have used them countless times to help new and old shooters become better and more confident. If you need them, use them, and make them your own.
Maybe you have a technique that works to cope with shaky hands. If it doesn’t violate a firearm safety rule, I’d like to learn about what you’ve found to be helpful. Do share!
]]>First, I’d like to address ammo that’s not “stored” in the same gun that rides around on your person daily. So long as there is minimal humidity and no exposure to solvents in its storage place, that ammo should last for something resembling forever. If you want to really ensure that’s the case, store it in humidity-proof bags made for the task, such as those made by Arms Preservation, Inc. Or at least toss several desiccant packets in the safe and/or ammo-can where they’re stored. For extra peace of mind, flip the boxes or container over annually to discourage and break up any caking that might occur with the gunpowder inside.
Of greater concern is the ammo in magazines that are part of your everyday carry setup. Do what you can to minimize exposure of them to sweat, salt water, and oils, whether those things come from you in the form of normal bodily functions, activities like sea fishing, or products like lotion or sunscreen. Other external conditions can affect the feeding of ammunition to the same effect that these things do. Clothing that sheds lots of lint or living in very dusty conditions are common examples.
The Bravo Concealment Torsion gun holster is constructed such that it does a great job of protecting ammunition from these hazards most of the time. But when worn against the skin, pretty much any holster will fail to provide 100% moisture protection in hot weather. Cloth or leather holsters, worn against the body, can retain moisture for hours after taking the holster off.
It's obvious that a daily or weekly wipe-down of gun and magazines goes a long way to protect ammo when carried in conditions like the ones named above. To be entirely safe, remove ammo from the chamber and magazines at least weekly and inspect it. Discoloration will appear after brass cases are exposed to moisture or oils, so it’s a good idea to wear exam or food service gloves when handling ammo. Tarnish doesn’t hurt, but can advance into a sticky, dark green goo if allowed to go on too long. Steel cases, on the other hand, might begin to show rust spots.
If any of the above ammunition conditions appear, it’s time to shoot up that ammo in practice. Do NOT load gooey, sticky brass cases! Cartridge cases that have been allowed to deteriorate to the point of having goo on them should be disposed of by sealing them in a Ziploc bag with a penetrating oil such as WD-40 generously applied for a few weeks before tossing them into the trash.
The best way to ensure ammo doesn’t deteriorate to a useless degree is to shoot and replace old stock on a schedule. Some agencies use 90-day intervals on which HP ammo is released for training purposes and replaced with new rounds for duty use. An easy way to track this is to schedule range time with your HP ammo on the first day of spring, summer, fall, and winter.
While 90-day rotation might be ideal, it is neither necessary nor affordable for many gun owners. If you’re wearing your gun daily and inspecting ammo and the condition of your gun on the regular, annual replacement is more than sufficient for peace of mind. If your ammo is exposed to virtually no substances/conditions that might cause deterioration, and if you keep your gun well-maintained, you can go even longer.
Have you run into ammo deterioration issues I’ve not mentioned here? I’d be interested to hear details in the comments.
]]>As far as I can tell, ammunition is the only thing that still uses grains as a standard. Solid medications, i.e. aspirin, were the other remnant of the grain standard until approximately 30 years ago.
Now that we know where this peculiar term came from, let’s discuss why, or whether, it matters when it comes to ammunition choices. After all, the choices are many. In terms of handguns used for personal defense, grain weights typically range from 85 grains in the case of 380 ACP to 230 45 ACP. Of course there are exceptions on both ends of the spectrum, especially if one checks out frangible or lead-free ammunition.
In general, but with many exceptions, lighter grain weights are used for full metal jacket “practice” ammunition. These represent less costly options than the same brand of ammunition in higher grain weights and/or hollow point form. Using 9mm as an example, most FMJ loads are 115 grain. Hollow point 9mm is typically 124 or 147 grain, with 124 being a bit more common and usually more affordable within the same brand.
Greater grain weights can make a difference when firing long distances. The bullet’s arc and point of impact will be lower as grain weight increases, assuming identical powder charges in the rounds. This seeming disadvantage is slight though, and often offset by the heavier bullet being less influenced by wind than the lighter one. And while bullet shape definitely enters into the equation, identical nose-of-bullet construction and identical powder loads will almost certainly offer a greater advantage with a heavier bullet in terms of longer-range accuracy. The most frequent example I’ve seen is the 700 Aggregate, AKA The Humbler Drill historically used by Delta operators as a practice tool but perfectly available to anyone who can download instructions and buy an NRA B8 bullseye target. Dozens of times, I’ve seen the same gun produce very different levels of accuracy on this drill with a simple change of grain weight within the same brand of ammo. With a few exceptions, greater grains mean greater accuracy. If this kind of precision is important to you, time spent on a shooting bench using near-perfect trigger technique will yield a lot of information about how your gun handles various bullet weights.
Most readers are probably more concerned about whether grain weight makes a difference on an active threat than bullseye shooting. My answer is shot placement counts above all. No matter what ammo (or caliber) you carry, it does no good if shots don’t land as intended.
I’d love to stop this article right here, but the terminal ballistics geeks will surely say something about bigger grains equaling bigger OOMPH on target. And to an extent that really only matters in laboratory conditions, yes, there’s a minor difference in hydraulic disturbance with a heavier bullet. But, again with the same powder load as the lighter bullet, or when fired from a shorter barrel, that heavy projectile will go a bit slower. Push the performance envelope of either powder or grains too far in any direction, and the gun won’t function reliably.
Those concerned about the short barrels of many defensive handguns will be well-served to explore options among ammunition especially made for short barrels, or to purchase a chronograph and measure velocity for themselves. Examples of loads specialized for short barrels are Punch by Federal Premium and 365 by Sig Sauer.
As one of my shooting mentors puts it, ballistics is a very mature science. Ammunition makers can predict with great accuracy how a given combination of materials will perform. In fact there’s a repository of knowledge and manufacturing standards that guide ammo development. The Sporting Arms and Ammunition Manufacturers’ Institute (SAAMI) is a consortium of gun, ammo, and defense companies that publish these helpful, voluntary guidelines. Their data is transparent and available for anyone to peruse.
Thanks to LuckyGunner.com, which has a superb range of ammo to choose from and provided some of the ammo seen in this article, along with the manufacturers.
]]>Marksmanship, often overlooked by the hardcore defensive shooters or "tactical crowd," plays a very important role in the world we live in.
I often get asked why I use B-8 bullseye targets when conducting live fire training courses. The answer is simple; I hold my students to a high standard of marksmanship because in the real world there is an attorney attached to every bullet. Reckless and uncontrolled shots have consequences, regardless of what movies and TV shows tell us.
If you are under a high level of stress and have to use your firearm for self defense but never prioritize your accuracy in training, then I hate to break it to you but things will go bad very quickly. Training with a balance of speed and accuracy is the best formula for real world success. Don't just focus on one and neglect the other.
The more shootings that occur, the more the 21ft. rule gets tossed out the window. Let's look at the shooting involving Jack Wilson, who protected his fellow church members when an active shooter event occurred several years ago. That event required him to make a headshot at 30ft. (10 yards). That was just one of several incidents that have occurred in the past few years that are pushing the distance boundaries with a pistol for self defense use.
Training from 3-7 yards is practical, yes, but recent events have told us that the short range gunfights are not always the case anymore. Active shooter situations can push gunfights out to 25 yards potentially, if not further, depending on the situation.
Next time someone asks you why you're working slow fire marksmanship drills at 10-15 or even 20 yards, tell them you wanna be prepared for anything the real world throws at you. Being well rounded is important; not being well rounded is a liability.
Most people train for only speed because it's fun, right? But people don't train for marksmanship, not because it's boring, but because it exposes the holes in their overall shooting ability and, quite frankly, it's just downright difficult to shoot a handgun with a high level of accuracy.
A wise man once said, "Speed is fine, but accuracy is final"
Stay training and stay safe, guys.
Daniel Richardson / https://www.richardsonprecisionandtraining.com/
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