Armed American Report

January 22, 2010

I hope this edition of the Armed American Report finds you happy and healthy. If you’re not either of those, I hope you’re at least well-armed

Let’s get started.

Are YOU truly Prepared to Handle Whatever Comes Your Way?

“…I know as a reporter I’m supposed to remain objective, but sometimes you just can’t remain objective, when you see people hurt, and there’s nothing you can do about it.”

by the USCCA

We all know that we need to be prepared for the very realistic possibility of having to defend our lives from a violent attacker.

You and I both know that this happens dozens of times every single day in the USA, and we KNOW how it usually ends up if the victim has no means to defend himself.

We love the police, because they are ’sheepdogs’ like us. BUT- we know that you absolutely cannot count on the police being there to save you when an attacker strikes- and 99% of police officers understand that- that’s why they are in favor of armed citizens- they hate seeing evil triumph as much as we do.

Not to mention, the police are about as good at predicting the next armed assault as the Red Cross is at predicting when the next natural (or man-made) disaster will occur- it’s not only impossible; it’s not their job.

It’s OUR job to prepare in advance for these things.

I know you are actively working on becoming prepared for when an attacker strikes, because you’re a member of the USCCA, you are armed, and you are reading this right now.

But how are your preparations for when a disaster strikes?

We’re here to help you.

What Handicap?

“…it is unlikely that folks like us will be able to pass some of the tough concealed carry training courses. We need a middle ground…”

by Cody S. Alderson

Sometimes the older we are, or the more out-of-shape that we are, we get pushed to the back of the class when it comes to the efforts of some of concealed carry’s best instructors. I believe that regardless of whether or not a so-called handicap is or is not the fault of a person, that the person still deserves the best training in concealed carry defensive tactics that they can effectively perform. I also am of the opinion that there is a huge (pardon the pun) market for such training.

I got fat because I kept eating the same amount of calories that I consumed when I was digging trenches, climbing ladders, and carrying eighty pound bags of concrete. So basically getting fat was my fault. Then a few things happened with injury and disease that makes it super tough to get back on track physically, but it’s still relatively easy to eat some potato chips instead of carrot sticks.

Come on—many of you know exactly what I’m talking about. We all have excuses and rationalizations to go along with our real reasons for our current level of physical conditioning and ability.

Maybe you just got old and frail, but still want to be able to defend yourself while taking a trip out to the local eatery for a bite of dinner with the spouse (senior discount of course). Maybe you use a cane, a wheelchair, or other mobility or adaptive equipment. Does that mean you should be on the same list with concealed carry training as our new version of government healthcare would like to put you on? Absolutely not! But on the other hand, it is unlikely that folks like us will be able to pass some of the tough concealed carry training courses. We need a middle ground.

Let’s start out with a ‘criminal tied to a pole three yards away from two good guys holding guns’ scenario. Hypothetical, of course. Both good guys are each holding a .38 Special revolver of identical make and model. Both are loaded with the same make and type of ammunition. Both qualified with the same score shooting stationary targets while standing in one spot. Both are instructed to hit the bad guy with three shots center mass. Bang, bang, bang . . . Bang, bang, bang. Bad guy is dead. Hypothetically, of course. Both good guys with the guns hit their target three times center mass as instructed. No problem.

The problem comes in when more dynamics are thrown into the scenario. Good Guy number one is a thirty-eight year-old former Navy SEAL. He left the military after a fantastic career to become a S.W.A.T. officer of a major metropolitan city. He trains in tactics three times per week, every week, and responds to about eight S.W.A.T. operations calls per month for his area and surrounding jurisdictions. Good Guy number two is a seventy year-old retired office worker who was chubby while he was in the work force, and got a bit fatter after the grand kids arrived. He’s got some emphysema from too many cigarettes in years passed and a really bum knee from that time he fell down the stairs.

For the stand in place scenario of shooting the tied-up bad guy, the two men were essentially equal in their abilities to perform the required task. Let the bad guy loose from that pole, give him a loaded gun, and the differences in abilities will readily become apparent. Does this mean that Good Guy number one deserves to live more than Good Guy number two? No. But is it more likely that Good Guy number one will be better equipped to survive the suddenly changed scenario? Obviously that is a yes.

Though physical ability and training do not equate in an exact one-to-one ratio in probabilities of surviving a violent encounter, simply because of the variables, it is just common sense that better training will up the odds of being able to survive a violent encounter as will better physical abilities. Just like a surgeon is more likely than me to be able to successfully remove a ruptured appendix from someone since I’m not a surgeon, it is more likely that a highly trained soldier or law enforcement officer will be better able to survive extreme violence than me.

Believe me; I am under no delusion that I am some sort of Superman. And you shouldn’t be either, about yourself. Even if you are Good Guy number one! As I read from a survival writer on how we all think that we are the heroes of our own action movie and how that is such a dangerous delusion, so should we all be diligent to not imagine beyond the true reality of our individual abilities.

Fortunately for us concealed carry permit holders, we are all human beings. Human beings are incredibly adaptable to almost any situation and condition. It is built into us to want to survive. And we can adapt quickly too. Another positive for the old-timers among us is that there is a higher likelihood of having to have endured many more severe hardships growing up than much of the last couple of generations. You know what pain is, and you know how to make it through tough times. You have points-of-reference for handling the worst that life can dish out. In other words, you are tougher than you might be aware of.

So I’m not Superman, and I’m not Caspar Milquetoast either. Now I have to find the real balance of the self-defense me. That is if I can keep my balance. Those blood pressure pills sometimes make me woozy!

As I have determined certain things worthy of my own self-defense toolbox, I thought I might share a few with you here. As an important aside, if you are floating along in the same boat as me, as far as the points in this article, please let USCCA know if you would like to hear more about this from me.

Okay the basics of having a gun and knowing how to use it are a given for this article, so let’s pick up from there. Right up there at the top of my “Be able to do list” is being able to draw and fire my defensive weapon fast. The standard I keep reading about is being able to draw and hit the target within 1.5 seconds. I do agree that is the goal we should be working toward.

I would like all of my so-called handicapped concealed carry permitted friends to seriously take a hard look at both the gun that they choose to carry, and the on body mount of that gun no matter if it is some kind of holster or other method or apparatus. Most of the slow down comes more from the gun and carry position for non-handicapped people. For those who have any sort of common handicap, a poor gun and holster choice will just exacerbate the slow down.

It certainly would be a sad thing to have a news story written about a victim of violent crime that included a line of how video showed that he tried to use his legally carried firearm to defend his life, but the perpetrator of the crime was quicker.

You’ve probably heard about how fast a gun can be put into action using a gun that is in a coat pocket with a proper firing grip already on the gun (index finger straight and off the trigger). Maybe you’ve even seen video of an instructor firing a revolver through a coat pocket. Now that’s fast. And when the weather and other variables allow such carry, by all means use it if it works for you.

One doesn’t have to be the fastest draw around, but there should be continued practice to get to that 1.5 second time. Oh, and do it safely. Repeating a safe and smooth draw over and over builds the speed correctly. Trying to speed up a sloppy draw will get your foot shot, possibly something even worse!

If there is someone out there who is on the handicap list of concealed carry permit holders who has been carrying for decades or just a few weeks, I’d like to suggest something to consider. If that person is comfortable with their self-defense abilities and toolbox, that is fine. However, if there is someone who is concerned about their ability to quickly put their weapon into action, I would like to suggest a couple of things.

1. Reconsider the gun choice. Maybe a smaller, larger, thinner, fatter, or other change may make a difference. I can’t decide that for you sitting here typing this without knowing you, but I did think about it for myself and found what works for me. Consider whether or not a change to the opposite of what is carried may be of benefit as well. Carrying a revolver? Try an autoloader and vice versa.

For me, a 1911 in .45 ACP fits me and draws really fast. Ergonomically it fits me like a glove. I can manipulate the safety, slide stop, slide, magazine release, hammer, and trigger perfectly. No other gun fits me like the 1911.  You might get such a fit out of a 1911, and maybe you won’t. That’s why a good gun store lets us handle the product before we purchase it.

2. Consider a fast drawing holster that does provide automatic retention. If you are reading this article in hopes of learning something to personally put to use, it is unlikely that you are a super duper special agent. So don’t act like one. You don’t want to make it easy for a sociopath to grab your gun, nor do you want it to clatter on the floor if you happen to have to go Number 2 in the public stall!

The Blackhawk SERPA platform of holster with the retention built in is my favorite at this time. It provides for a smooth natural draw, and the gun is locked solidly in the holster until I want it to come out.

Those two things can greatly improve one’s speed of deploying their weapon in a critical moment. The next is where on the body the weapon is carried. That’s another set of experiments the reader needs to carry out. Climate, attire, level of concealment needed, and other variables are too varied for me to give something here that will work for everyone.

What I’d rather accomplish here is to get the interested reader out of their apathy and complacency and into a re-evaluation mindset. Never considered shoulder carry? Consider it. Never considered appendix carry? Consider it. Then there are sub methods to each carry style. There are horizontal, vertical, and inverted shoulder carry options. For the appendix carry, there is the consideration of the level of cant (angle of tilt) of the holster. Once again the SERPA shines here. Not only can the cant be adjusted, but there are many options as to where the SERPA can be carried on the body. (For inverted shoulder carry a secondary retention system is recommended in case the primary fails. Because an upside-down gun can fall out a lot easier).

This has just been the beginning of leveling the playing field for those who have certain physical issues that they need to adapt concealed carry methods for. There is so much more, and I’d like to have opportunity to tell you about it.

USCCA Toon of the Week

by Chaim’s Cartoons

The U.N. Gun Ban Treaty That Threatens Your Gun Rights

Gun Rights Roundup

by Buckeye Firearms Association
During his presidential campaign, Barack Obama assured gun owners that he was no threat to gun rights. And so far, his administration has publicly steered clear of the issue.

However, behind the scenes, he and his staff have shown support for the U.N. Gun Ban, an international treaty on small arms sales that could sidestep established American gun rights and pose a serious threat to the Second Amendment.

President George W. Bush refused to involve America in any aspect of the U.N. Gun Ban treaty. But the government’s position changed when Obama gave Secretary of State Hillary Clinton the green light to begin the negotiation process.

Worse, the small arms treaty brings up a horrifying proposition that the theory of “international norms” means the U.S. might be bound by the treaty even if we never sign on.

Basically, once the small arms treaty is accepted by enough nations, the argument can be made that the provisions become accepted practice and binding on all nations. Based on that logic, America is hurt by the U.N. treaty whether we are a party to it or not.

Barack Obama is the most anti gun president in history and his anti-gun views are a threat to gun rights. If he can destroy the right to bear arms while cozying up to the U.N., without paying a political price, he will surely do so.

Click here to read the full story.

Gun Rights Roundup is a joint venture of Buckeye Firearms Association and USCCA. We will keep fighting until every American enjoys their natural right to carry and self-defense. For more news on pro-gun law, politics, and events, click here to subscribe to Buckeye Firearms Association’s FREE Newsletter.

Coming Up On Armed American Radio

The Official Voice of the USCCA

by Mark Walters

What a week folks, what a week!  The SHOT floor is jam packed with more fun stuff than I could ever talk about.  What an opportunity to meet with the biggest names in the industry here in Vegas and bring some great info to you “right from the belly of the beast” so to speak.  More to come on that, I promise.

Last weeks broadcast was one of the best yet on AAR.  Two titans of the training world in the same room together?  YOU BET.  I was joined by Rob Pincus and Gabe Suarez for what went down as one of the best hours of AAR to date.  By all means if you have not heard it, go get it.

Coming up this week on 1-24-2010 I’ll be joined by National Shooting Sports Foundation Director of Communications, Mr. Bill Brassard.  Also, from Iowa gun owners, Mr. Aaron Dorr will be here.  In addition the roundtable will be chock full of info from this years SHOT show and we’ll give you as much as the hour allows.

For up to the minute pics from the Vegas show floor, please visit us on FACEBOOK and become a fan.  There are some great pics being posted up in REAL time.  Also please visitwww.armedamericanradio.org for up to the minute info on AAR happenings.  Well, back to the meetings here in Las Vegas soooooo,

I’ll see you on the radio THIS weekend!  Be there!

Mark

REVIEW OF THE TAURUS PT 709 SLIM

USCCA Gear Review

by Ray Hawk - USCCA Member

About six months ago, at a local gun shop, I saw the Taurus PT 709 Slim - semi-auto 9mm pistol.  When the clerk gave it to me, I removed the magazine and pulled the slide back to make sure it wasn’t loaded.  Then I tried the trigger.  I pulled it back until it was almost against the back of the trigger stop.  I thought I had not pulled the slide back far enough to cock the mechanism.  I did so again making sure the trigger was set.  Then I pulled it again.  Same experience.  I told the clerk that I thought it was broken.  He smiled and said, “Pull it all the way.”  I did and it clicked.   The front of the trigger measures 12/16 of an inch to the back of the trigger well before being pulled.  When it is pulled and it is 5/16 of an inch from the back wall, it is ready to release the firing pin with a little more pressure.  The reset is short which I immediately liked.  The pistol has two trigger pulls, much like other Taurus semi-auto models.  The double action pull is slightly stiffer, but the release point is the same.  If for some reason a primer is bad, one may pull the trigger again to see if that will activate it.  After the first shot, the pistol is in single action mode.  The double action pull is not bad at all.

The magazine that came with the gun fits flush against the bottom of the grip to help with concealment.  At this writing, the store had not received the mags with the extended grip for the pinky finger.  Two extra magazines were $35 each.  Each mag holds seven rounds.

The pistol is less than 1″ wide, 6″ long and 4 ½” high.  It uses the same system to disassemble as the Glock.  It has a safety catch on the left side which I use at night with the pistol at my bedside.  There is a load indicator on top of the slide just behind the ejection port. The sight system is three dots.  The rear sight may be adjusted up or down or left and right.  A tools is supplied to adjust the sight and also lock the gun.  The hole for locking is on the right side of the slide just below the rear sight.

I have put FMJ as well as lead reloads through the pistol without any problems.  At this point I have shot between 900 to 1,000 rounds through it without a jam or any mechanical problems.  The gun is very accurate even at 40 yards.  It comes in a black matt finish, much like the Glock.  The other model has a stainless steel type slide.  The lower is polymer and the slide is steel.  The pistol sells for under $400.

I highly recommend it.
—–

ATTENTION USCCA MEMBERS!

The gun review you just read was written by a member of the USCCA.

How would you like to have your gun or gear review published in this Armed American Report?

To have your review considered for publishing, simply email your word document with photos as separate attachments to gearreview@usconcealedcarry.com

Reviews should be between 800 and 1600 words long. Photos are encouraged and should be in .jpg format and less than 500 kb in size (each).

I look forward to reading your submission.

P.S. -Be sure to include your full name and email address so I can email you with questions or comments.

Quote of the Week

“The great object is that every man be armed. Everyone who is able may have a gun.”

—Patrick Henry

Letter to the Editor

Have something you want to get off your chest? Post it here, and share it with the Armed American community.

Submit your letter to the editor HERE, and I’ll share it next week!

ALL IN GOOD HUMOR:
My neighbor’s wife saw the bulge under my shirt and said ,”I don’t like guns because they are bad.” I sheepishly replied,”really,including mine”? “Yes”,she said in an abrupt manner. I immediately lifted my shirt enough to expose the butt protruding from my holster and briskly spanked my 1911 then told her ,in my most serious expression,”If my gun ever misbehaves again you just let me know and I promise I will be quick to discipline it again ! Her husband whom was present laughed with slight refrain as she turned away and went back inside her house , grumbling.

MORE REVIEWS FOR OTHER BODY TYPES::
I really have learned a lot from USCCA, but every time I see someone reviewing holsters they are always skinny to medium build guys. I’m 5′9 and 300lbs I use a LCP in my pocket because it fits, I would like to carry IWB or OWB but I’m lumpy and those holsters stick out bad. I can’t carry crossdraw because I can’t reach it. So lets see some overweight guys and see what they would use and see how to cover up a compact XD or Glock or similar firearm. Thanks for taking this challenge it will be helpful. Thank you Lenny C

TRAMPLED RIGHTS:
When you mentioned Katrina, I thought back as to how the 2nd Amendment was stomped on and kicked aside. I heard the National Guard Members on t.v. They were saying that they did not want to shoot or kill any citizens- When they were in N.O. My question is why did they enforce disarming law abiding citizens? Why did they not go after the gangs of thugs that were looting shooting and threatening the citizens? The troops were under no obligations to follow illegal orders.They violated there oaths to uphold the Constitution. Why did the citizens give there only protection, handguns and rifles to the police and troops? What should the citizens have done?

USCCA Forum Highlights

Every paying website member has complete access to the USCCA forum, which is constantly being accessed by members sharing information, knowledge, insight, and fun. With well over sixty-thousand posts and growing by the hour, this is one heck of a valuable resource!

If you have never logged in but are a member, visit THIS location to watch help videos, including how to find out your username and/or password!

*******************

This week in the Forum Highlights I’m giving you an example of the responses members get from their posts. I want you all of you who aren’t yet members of our exclusive online members only forums to not only get a taste of the questions and other posts, but also the wonderfully informative replies.

Right To Carry Where LEO Do

Hi All, I know that this might not sit well with some of you but do you think we should be able to carry anywhere the LEO’S (Law Enforcement Officer) do. Seems to me that a lot of us train more with our firearms than most leo’s do. Just how many hrs of range time do you think the average leo shoot per month. I still believe that a police officer can snap as fast as anyone of us. We all go through all the background checks and training that is required to get our CCW and most get additional training as well. I hope you all don’t get offended by this but I think we should be able to carry anywhere that an leo can. What are your feelings, i think ex leos and present leo’s might think differently, but if so why do they get their CCW permits when they are no longer leo’s except to protect themselves and families.

What Religion?

(Though we have a whole bunch of On Topic discussions concerning concealed carry, our member community is so tightly knit that we also have Off Topic discussions as well. There is an entire message board of Off Topic discussions with Politics & Religion being two sub-topics. You won’t find this type of family style closeness on any other forum.)

What is everyone’s religious background?

Another Weapon

I just took a trip on the airlines. Ever since 9/11 I have hated the idea of being totally defenseless on an airplane. I had to travel soon after 9/11. I had already thought about getting a cane for self defense. A friend told me about canemasters.com. I bought a combat cane from them and carry it when I travel on the airlines or when I cannot carry concealed. There is actually a martial arts discipline using a cane. It is better than not having anything to defend yourself with. I thought some of you would be interested in this.

Video of the Week

Watch out! Grandma Knows Cane-Fu!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U2lJWAIyYtU

USCCA Photo of the Week

All Photos of the Week are taken from Mr. Oleg Volk’s website:
http://www.a-human-right.com/.

It is a fantastic site. Please check it out!

USCCA Self Defense Story

Every day, thousands of Armed Americans use their firearms to preserve human life. Let this section of my newsletter serve as a record of this fact!

December 29, 2009

Fort Myers, Florida

From: News Press

Would-Be Robber Shot Dead In Fort Myers Identified

Fort Myers police have confirmed that a shooting Monday night at an apartment complex near the Edison Mall during an attempted robbery has left one of the assailants dead and the would-be robbery victim wounded.

The shootings and attempted robbery took place outside on the second floor of the Sundance Grove apartments off East Mall Drive.

Fort Myers police Capt. Dennis Eads said one of the two robbers was shot in the head and killed by the would-be robbery victim, who was armed.

The other robber fled the scene and is considered armed and dangerous. He’s described as a large man dressed in all black, and police believe he may be hiding at a residence in the area.

The victim of the attempted robbery was hit in the shoulder during the exchange of gunfire and taken to a hospital. His condition isn’t known, but his injuries are not believed to be life-threatening.

QUESTIONS ANSWERED

Last Week’s Question: ANSWERED.

“I am a 100% disabled Veteran that has to use a wheelchair for mobility. I have no problems using my upper body. I am very concerned for our safety when out in public places with my wife because I feel that we are vulnerable to attack. At present, I carry a .38 special in a concealed weapon fanny pack but am afraid that if some store manager should decide to inspect it, that my weapon might be discovered. Is there a better method of carry or choice of handgun and holster that someone like me could carry that would ease my concerns?”

Anonymous:

A store manager has no business inspecting anyone’s personal bag. Something very similar happened to my wife. She was accused of shoplifting and asked to open her handbag. She refused and asked for a police officer to respond. She showed the officer her permit and then proceeded to empty her bag. No stolen merchandise was found, and the employees nearly wet their pants when she pulled out a large frame semi-auto. They asked the officer to stay until she finished shopping in case she tried to rob them. He gave them a good talking to and sent them on their way.

Anonymous:

There is no reason for a store manager to search your pack; if they should for some reason, ask to do it in private {office, etc.} and explain your reason for carrying. If you have a CCW permit the most that should happen, is they ask you to leave.

Anonymous:

Physically disabled shooters have fewer options than the able-bodied shooter. I have used crutches all my life and am now spending more and more time in a wheelchair. The options I’ve used to conceal carry are: one, crossdraw at 10:00 position-this requires a cover garment, but it is the easiest way to draw while in a wheelchair or on crutches; two, undergarment holster-harder to reach, but I have a button shirt that uses a velcro closure behind a fake button to more quickly access the gun; three, pocket pistol that can be transferred to jacket pocket when using wheelchair. The hardest carry position is strong-side, because of the wheelchair side arms or crutches that impede easy access. I’ve tried the fanny pack, but I agree that it could be susceptible to inquiry by store personnel. I’ve seen fanny packs with a red cross type emblem on them which may make it seem more reasonable for a wheelchair user to have it on their person. CR Williams carries crossdraw at 9:00 position, by the way.

Craig R. Brownell Chief Instructor www.mnpistolclass.com:

Thank you for your sacrifice. Some retail stores will want a look into backpacks or bags upon entry and/or departure. Many prohibit them. However, private property owners, managers and their security employees have no authority to search you against your will under any circumstances. If you will not submit to a search when attempting to enter, their ONLY option is to insist that you leave and trespass laws require that you comply. If approached after entry or when attempting to leave, they cannot lawfully search against your will unless they are willing to file a complaint alleging criminal behavior. In this case, they must to bring in the police and the police WILL search you. If any private citizen, including a security guard, even touches you without your permission or specifically against your will, it is at least simple assault in all fifty states and could rise to battery in some. It is also grounds for litigation. Your mobility limitations and disability will tip the disparity of force fear scale in your favor more than for an able-bodied individual. I have run into some security personnel who believe themselves to have far more authority than they actually do. Be cool, but firm. If you are detained against your will, this is a citizen’s arrest and they are subject to criminal and civil penalties if they are wrong.

Mike from Jacksonville NC:

Regarding the 100% disabled veteran who was looking for alternatives to a fanny pack type holster; Consider either a shoulder holster during weather when substantial covering garment can be inconspicuously worn or a crossdraw holster with a light t-shirt, polo shirt or other square cut untucked shirt to conceal it. Also, depending on whether he uses a seat belt o strap himself into his chair, the nature of his injuries and his personal preferences, our veteran might consider a thigh holster rig and a simple covering blanket. After all, what could be more natural than resting your hands in your lap, or ‘unconsciously’ crossing your arms ‘protectively’ in front of your chest when confronting a potential hostile situation - and what better way to get that gun hand close to the protective tools? And what about a BUG in one of those holster style undershirt garments? Also consider encouraging the spouse to undertake the concealed carry permitting process so he has someone he can trust to cover his six.

This week’s question. Have an answer? Use the “Ask Tim” form below to give an answer- I’ll share them here next week!

I hear and read a lot on the need for carrying a big 45 but I don’t especially like the 1911 and I’m more comfortable carrying a Kel-Tec P11. primary with a P32 loaded with Xtreme Shock ammo. Is this enough firepower, or am I wimping out?

Do you have a pressing concern? Use the ‘Ask Tim’ contact form found at this page to let me hear your advice. Just use the graphic below!

This was one of our busiest weeks yet, with more access to our website and forum than I’ve seen in a long time- not to mention, over 1,100 responsibly armed individuals have made the decision to become members of the USCCA in the last seven days alone.

The Armed American Report has seen a lot of changes since it’s humble beginnings, and based on your feedback, we keep making it better. (Some of you may remember when it was simply called The USCCA Weekly Newsletter!)

For example, a few weeks ago I tried something new with the ‘Ask Tim’ Q&A. Rather than giving you my one answer to a member’s question each week, I decided to try proposing the question to YOU, and then post some of the answers I received through the ‘Ask Tim’ feedback utility..

As it turns out, that was a huge success based on participation, and I’m proud to say that beginning next week, this will become a permanent addition to the Armed American Report (I’ll be updating the ‘ask Tim’ picture/link to something a bit more appropriate too!).

Also beginning next week, will be a “letter to the editor” section. Sometimes, we just need to vent, and I see a lot of it submitted to the “Ask Tim” section: Comments on new frustrating laws, comments about poor experiences with the public or law enforcement, and even comments about how a particular piece of gear failed them.

I also get great, positive comments about individual’s experiences, and I’d like to share them with you. Well, now you will have a designated place to submit your ‘letters to the editor’, and a section right here inside every Armed American Report in which to read them.

Thank you for being a reader of this publication and helping us grow: through your reading, your feedback and possibly even your membership to the USCCA. This is gunna be a great year.

-Tim

A Typical Night

“…That day, I was to find out, was the most important decision I had ever made involving hand guns…”

by Ronnie K.

It was one in the morning and it was cold. I just finished the typical drive from Denver to Salt Lake City. The air was filling with snow as I began the nightly ritual of setting up the room It was the usual room at the usual hotel. The parking space was not usual due to the late hour of arrival.

In 1984 I bought my first handgun. It was a fascination really, not familiar to the world of guns. During my younger years, I did not really care to learn. That would change in time. The thought of having one around was only one step in a series of decisions to empower myself with the ability to have a say in anything life threatening that might come my way. Just two months prior to tonight I engaged in a one-on-one training session with an incredible human being, Jerry S. Jerry is a retired sheriff of Weld County, Colorado. I have known him for 25 years. We talked before on many occasions as to me spending time with him on the course to get more comfortable in tactical situations. That day, I was to find out, was the most important decision I had ever made involving hand guns.

For the past 2 years, I found myself leaving my Glock 21 locked under the seat of my car. I guess I had become lax and less vigilant and had not included the gun in my nightly rituals. The first thing I do when I enter a hotel room is turn the bed down. I then throw all of the POP and advertising and Gideon’s book in a drawer and finally proceed in turning the room in “MY” room. I un-wrap the soap and throw a towel over the shower rail. I throw the old toilet paper roll away and put a new one into place. I unpack my travel bag and I strategically place the 28 things used to start the next day off quickly.

Because of the late arrival, I had to park a row further down than usual. Making the trek back and forth until I had transferred everything I needed was a multi-trip task. For some odd reason, I picked up the gun case and laid it next to the television; away from the line of sight of any passer-by. I was almost finished. I set-up the laptop on the bed and returned to the car for one last trip. As I reached into the middle doors of the car, I heard a strange noise behind me. I turned to look and saw a dark-headed guy trying to get into the dumpster of the business next to the hotel. He looked to be about my height. As he fell from the dumpster he made a loud noise; at first, I did not think much about it. That was about to change.

As I approached room #145, I turned to my left and there he was. Realizing that I was right about the height, he was much younger and heavier. I put my hand out in his direction and authoritatively said, “NO!” as I walked into the room. He said something that I did not understand. I set the bags on the bed and turned to find this guy standing at the door of the room. Filing the door frame with heavy snow as a backdrop, unbuttoned shirt and apparently, little ability to communicate in my native language - English; I knew I was about to find out the answer to the question many people ask themselves in a stressful or life-threatening situation.

I looked at him, and in a strong voice barked, “GET OUT OF THE ROOM!” He took 2 steps towards me and I took 2 steps back. The only way out was blocked by my new friend. He turned, and to my disbelief, he closed the door. Before he was able to turn back towards me, I had the Glock 21 in my hands, slammed the no-drop mag into the well, popped the trigger block out and racked the gun. When he turned completely back, he was staring down at a big bore barrel and me, squared off at him. It all seemed like slow motion. I felt electrical pulses through my quads and calves. My trigger finger was firm against the guard. I could see the tritium dots try to glow in the hotel room light.

Just then, I heard Jerry S. in my head. It happened fast, but it seemed like an eternity. I didn’t think, it just happened. I looked at this intruder through the trijcons and as loud as I could, issued two identical demands, “GET OUT OF THE ROOM, I DON’T WANT TO HURT YOU! GET OUT OF THE ROOM, I DON’T WANT TO HURT YOU!” He didn’t move; he just stared. I took one step towards him and still with authority, but not as loud, “GET OUT NOW OR YOU WILL DIE RIGHT HERE!” He looked and reached behind him. The closing the door was not enough - my finger jumped to the trigger and then back to the outside of the guard. I thought that I was going to have to shoot this guy. I was ready to do so, and right then, I knew that I could. His hand began to move forward and the door began to open. My heart stopped for a second - I think - and as he exited, I began to breathe evenly again. It was clear that this ordeal was about to end successfully. As he walked down the hall, I went to the door and yelled, “Where are you going?” He said, “To my room.” I responded, “What is your room number?” As he disappeared around the corner, he said, “206.”

Still revved up, I called the front desk. No one answered, so I called 911. I told the operator what had happened and in 12 seconds 8 Midvale police cars were at my door. I told the 911 operator that there was a loaded handgun in the room and this it would not be on my body when they arrived. I wanted the officers to know everything so that they would feel comfortable. I told the officers what had happened and they listened intently. A couple of them went to room 206, but there was no sign of him there. They came back and told me to lock the door. If anything else happened, I was to call 911 again. They left and I went on setting up the room for my three-day business trip. I realized that the cable I needed for the laptop was still in the car. It was still snowing and was 30 minutes since the police left. I opened the door and took 2 steps - to my surprise, he was back! Not 15 feet away, I looked up and he looked at me and said, “I didn’t mean to disrespect you.” I yelled to him, “DO NOT MOVE!” He complied. “TURN AROUND!” He complied. “PUT YOUR HANDS BEHIND YOUR HEAD!” He complied. At this point, I grabbed the phone and dialed 911. I thought about the Glock, but he was far enough away that all I had to do to avoid him was close the door. I also heard the doors of both rooms on either side of me jiggle their locks. Thanks neighbors… The police returned, took statements and locked up my new friend.

It took 2 extra hours to fall asleep. The adrenaline was still high. I sat there watching pre-Super Bowl late night shows and reliving what had happened. Where was I mentally? What did I do right? What did I do wrong? I realized some fascinating things about this ordeal. Not once was anything that happened - forced. In fact, I did not think or analyze anything as it was unfolding. Everything that happened was automatic. It was a response to detailed training by Jerry S. The procedures that I followed with his guidance, only months prior to this night, were integral to the way it played out. It saved the life of my intruder and probably saved me 10’s, if not 100’s of thousands of dollars, in legal fees. Not once did I allow any negotiation between me and my new friend. Not once did I curse at or belittle him. My goal was NOT to perpetuate or escalate the confrontation. Remember, I did not know if he was drunk or on some type of illicit stimulant. I did not know, nor did I want to get close enough to this guy to find out. Everything that happened that night, happened, and I was prepared.

The next night at 8:25 p.m. there was a knock at my door. There was not supposed to be a knock on my door seeing that I was 550 miles away from home. I looked through the view hole to see what I thought was a neighbor. I opened the door and was face-to-face with a big 6ft. 7in. man with a buddy who was the same gigantic build. In a thick southern drawl he said, “My name is Jim, were you here last night?” I said, “Hi Jim, I’m Ronnie, where are you from?” He said they were from Birmingham, Alabama. I went on to let him know I was here the previous night and it was me screaming to someone that I didn’t want to hurt them. They acknowledged that they heard the statement. I thought, as I stood in front of my big neighbors, that’s what Jerry S. advised -to bark out my intent so others could bear witness later and it worked. I also wondered why I heard these two big boys jiggle their lock the night before and why they had not come out to help. The real answer is: YOU are responsible for yourself. Your neighbors or local law enforcement might not be able to be there.

I never knew how I would respond in a situation like this. I am sure now that everything I did was because of the training. I often hear from others that they would or could shoot someone in a situation like this. They say this and have never shot nor even leveled a loaded gun at a human being. I know this and I am proud of how I responded. I am confident that I can handle stress situations with a gun in my hands. I am forever appreciative of the time Jerry S. spent with me. The things he taught me will be with me for the rest of my life.

Did I ever think that I would be in a situation like this? Probably not. Did I feel certain that I could control this confrontation? I do now. Am I happy that I took this training course from Jerry? YES!

It is not just about buying a gun or ammunition that makes you and others safe. It is the time spent training and then training even more that makes gun ownership a worthwhile process. It doesn’t matter if it is a .22 or a .50 caliber. What does matter is what the brain is doing while you are holding the gun in your hand.

USCCA Toon of the Week

by Chaim’s Cartoons

Chicago: Center of the Gun Rights Universe in 2010

Gun Rights Roundup

by Buckeye Firearms Association
The Constitution of the United States guarantees your First Amendment right to free speech. And as you would expect, when you enter the city of Chicago, you continue to have that right.

The Constitution of the United States also guarantees your Second Amendment right to bear arms. But when you enter the city of Chicago, you are stripped of that right.

Why would you retain one right and not the other? Because for many years, Chicago has been at war with the notion of private firearm ownership. And today, Chicago Mayor Richard Daley may be the most anti-gun elected official in America.

But his dream of a gun-free, Second-Amendment-free city may come to an end this year when the U.S. Supreme Court hears the case of McDonald v Chicago, the most significant gun rights case in the nation’s history. At stake is whether the Second Amendment applies to the states in the same way that all the other amendments apply.

Although most experts predict a convincing win for the pro-gun side in this case, most experts also readily admit that anything could happen. Remember that when the Heller case was decided in 2008, we were only one vote away from losing the individual right to bear arms and having only a “collective” right.

Buckeye Firearms Association and the United States Concealed Carry Association have teamed up to submit a vital legal brief to the court arguing that just as you retain your right to free speech when you enter Chicago, you should also retain your right to bear arms. Rights do not and cannot end just because you cross a border from one city into another.

Click here to read more about this case and download your own copy of this historic document, which you helped created through your support of BFA and USCCA. This is YOUR contribution to history.

Gun Rights Roundup is a joint venture of Buckeye Firearms Association and USCCA. We will keep fighting until every American enjoys their natural right to carry and self-defense. For more news on pro-gun law, politics, and events, click here to subscribe to Buckeye Firearms Association’s FREE Newsletter.

Coming Up On Armed American Radio

The Official Voice of the USCCA

by Mark Walters

Just hours before this Armed American Report went out I found out that Armed American Radio is adding yet MORE new stations in the first week back to work for the syndicators! Corpus Christi, TX is now on the network at KCCT 1150 AM! KITZ in Port Orchard/Kitsap Peninsula/Puget Sound WA is now a member of the AAR network and here’s where we need YOUR help…WPNN in Pensacola Florida is airing us LIVE for THREE hours THIS Sunday 1-10-2010 at 7-10pm CST. That’s GREAT news BUT it’s a TEST. They are looking for feedback from listeners and the ENTIRE station management team is listening in to make a decision whether to carry us LIVE and sign the affiliate contract! Here’s what we ned YOU to do. If you are a listener from the Pensacola Florida area, PLEASE call the station on MONDAY 1-11-2010 at 850-433-9538 and ask for the program director. Politely THANK them for bringing AAR to your area and ask them to please keep the show! They are wanting to hear from YOU!

Last weeks show was one of the funnest we have done and I say that due to hour 3 of the roundtable. Myself, Tim Schmidt, George Hill and Dr. Bruce Eimer had a plain old great time and the humor was flowing freely! Believe me, I had my finger on the “dump” switch during the entire hour, not because the conversation got rough but simply because it was 4 friends talking about whatever came to mind, laughing, cutting it up and having a great time! When that happens amongst friends it’s almost like being out together and having a beer and it’s real easy to forget you’re live in cities across the country in cars, on computers, in living rooms, garages, basements, places of business and anywhere else you may be listening to the radio! GREAT fun and GREAT conversation. Give it a listen and I promise it’ll kind of remind you of “overhearing” a conversation at another table at the restaurant you’re eating at!

Coming up THIS week… another great lineup. Expert LEO/CCW trainer, Mike Rayburn joins me for some great advice and training tips. In addition to Mike, Luby’s Cafeteria survivor, Author and Texas State Legislator Suzanna Hupp makes her second appearance on AAR! We’ll be discussing her new book From Luby’s to the Legislature in detail! Also, Concealed Carry Magazine writer Duane Daiker chimes in this week in hour 2 and will stick around for the roundtable discussion in hour 3 and you never know who else may want to get involved!

Don’t forget, Armed American Radio is on FACEBOOK. Head over and “Become a Fan” for up to the minute updates that link to us at Twitter also. Check us out at www.twitter.com/aarmark too!

I would also like to take this opportunity to thank Mr. Tom Gresham! See, This past Sunday, my co-author Ms. Kathy Jackson was a guest on Guntalk and she and Tom discussed our book, Lessons from Armed America for almost 15 minutes of a 30 minute segment. Tom Gresham then told his listeners that Lessons from Armed America was one of his TOP 5 books recommended for anyone carrying a concealed weapon or thinking about it! That’s a HUGE statement from Tom Gresham when he mentions our book in the same breath as Copper, Ayoob, etc. For your own copy of Lessons from Armed America, please head over to www.whitefeatherpress.com and pick one up! It’s also available at all major book retailers online and soon in stores however they keep selling out! Not a bad thing BUT you can head over to www.whitefeatherpress.com and have one sent RIGHT away instead of waiting!

Please visit www.armedamericanradio.org for all of the latest info on upcoming shows, where to listen, and all of the latest news as it happens FAST on one of the FASTEST GROWING radio broadcasts in the United States of America!

I’ll see YOU on the radio, THIS Sunday at 8-11pm EST, 5-8pm PST! Be there!
Mark Walters

Raven Concealment Systems – Phantom Modular Holsters

USCCA Gear Review

by Chris Fry - USCCA Member
www.mdtstraining.com/

Like numerous other handgun owners, over the last 20+ years I have been on a continuous quest to find the best holster for my needs. The holster box is overflowing with all sorts: leather, kydex, hybrids, IWB, OWB, Slides, etcetera. Of all that I own I find myself going back to a select few.  Recently, my friend and fellow trainer Paul Gomez sent me a couple Raven Concealment Systems holsters and accessories to test out. I had read a couple of forum posts from fellow shooters about the Raven holsters but I thought they were just another kydex holster company. I am happy to say that my assumption couldn’t have been farther from the truth and the Raven holsters I now own have become my go-to holsters of choice.

Design Background

Raven Concealment Systems (RCS) is a relatively new holster company. Its three owners set out two and a half years ago to develop the “perfect” holster. As their website states, the guys from Raven are not a bunch of spec op shooters or SWAT officers. They are regular guys who wanted a better holster. Listening closely to the input of their friends and contacts in the LE and MIL communities and top level competitive shooters combined with their unique approach to working kydex, Raven Concealment Systems was born.

Left: RCS Phantom Modular Holster for Glock 19
Right: RCS Modular Double Magazine Carrier

The design element that separates’ Raven Concealment Systems from other holster manufacturers is their “modular” designs and options. RCS holsters are available with numerous options for each holster, magazine carrier or accessory. For example, the Phantom holster comes with solid fixed belt loops attached to the rear of the holster making it an outside the waistband (OWB) holster. For about $15 a set of soft belt loop attachments can be purchased and attached to the front of the Phantom, changing it from an OWB to an inside the waistband holster (IWB). Other attachments include paddle attachments, J-hooks, offset hooks, IWB overhooks, tuckable J-hooks, tuckable C-hooks, tuckable velcro hooks, pancake wings and others. These same modular options are available for most of the accessories like the magazine carriers, light carriers and less lethal tool carriers. Simply stated, when you buy a piece of RCS gear you have a lot more options than other holster manufacturers on the market offer without having to buy a different holster for each of your desires or needs.

	RCS Phantom with modular “Paddle” attachments
	Two RCS Phantom Holsters: Left with soft belt loop attachments for IWB carry. Right with solid belt loop attachments for OWB carry

If you own a Philips head screwdriver then you can change between the various attachments as needed. Extra hardware can be purchased for $5 and switching from one attachment to another takes literally 5 minutes. Not bad if you want to switch your holster from an OWB range training or duty holster to a low profile IWB concealment holster.

RCS Phantom G17, Blade-Tech G19

Specifications

The first observation I had upon getting my RCS Phantom holster was its size. It is approximately five inches wide compared to a blade-tech holster I have which is 3 inches wide. It is seven inches tall from the base to the top of the sweat guard. The kydex is molded for each gun and by the looks of their website you would be hard pressed finding a gun they don’t already have a mold for. The standard kydex body is held together with twelve open grommets, five on each side and two at the base of the holster. Some kydex makers prefer to stitch kydex almost like leather while others use solid rivets or screws to hold the two pieces together. Using the open grommets provides the modularity that Raven has become known for, allowing various carry attachments to be swapped on and off of the holster via screws.

Several other kydex holsters I own have some type of screw that is used to adjust holster tension, allowing for more or less retention. In my experience these tension adjustment screws usually loosen up or back off after some hard use. Sometimes they require a little loctite which defeats the purpose altogether, in my humble opinion. The Phantom does not have this option which is refreshing to see since it speaks to the craftsmanship of the product. Unlike most fold-over kydex holsters that seem to be the norm the Phantom is two separate pieces of kydex molded perfectly and fit together almost seamlessly around the firearm. This makes them extremely secure for a holster with no dedicated retention device such as a thumb break or hood.

The Phantom is slightly concave with a very mild 10 degree cant. This concave feature is another diamond in the rough when compared to other manufacturers since it greatly adds to the overall comfort of the holster when worn for extended periods of time.

All RCS gear is made right here in the USA and comes with a lifetime guarantee.

Personal Impressions

At first glance I thought the Phantom would be too bulky and uncomfortable, but that is not the case. The width distributes weight, pressure or force exerted on the holster across a larger surface area making the holster more comfortable for extended duration wear. Some of my other holsters dig into my torso and hip when worn for more than eight hours and can become very uncomfortable leaving bruises or welts. It’s obvious that comfort was a major design concern with the Phantom and I can honestly say it is the most comfortable holster I have owned, to date, leather included. The first day I received the Phantom LC (light compatible) I wore it 14 hours straight in and out of the car with no discomfort or marking.

One group the guys from RCS relied upon for research and field testing were executive protection operators who required maximum concealment. The wide body design spreads the outline of the holster out more reducing typical “blocky” printing seen with some holsters. The ultra thin, slightly concave body hugging design coupled with the modular options provide excellent overall conceal-ability.

Another impressive feature is the thin shell design. This design allows the kydex to be somewhat pliable against the torso, but not enough to effect security or durability. It doesn’t feel like you’re wearing a piece of plastic and rides extremely close to the torso compared to other kydex holsters I own. Retention was one of my major concerns since the Phantom has no tension adjustment screw or option. With one other holster I own that doesn’t have a tension adjustment, the handgun is very loose in the holster and during a grounded shooting evolution with my long gun the handgun actually slid out of the holster. Needless to say that was the last time I used that particular holster. This is not a concern with the Phantom. Due to the molding method, all three of my RCS Phantom holsters hold the handgun firmly in place even when I turn the holster upside down and shake in an attempt to dislodge the handgun.

The durability and longevity of kydex is well known and so far my Ravens have held up strong with no problems. I have read accounts of clips breaking on the RCS Appendix rigs but have not had this problem with any of my RCS Phantom holsters or the RCS Appendix that I tested for several weeks of daily carry. From feedback I have received these problems were dealt with in a professional and timely manner by RCS with no questions asked.

Above: Phantom LC-Light Compatible

A feature I immediately liked about the Phantom was the ease of draw-stroke and re-holstering it offers. Some holsters, mostly leather but some kydex, require a “break in” period in which numerous draws from the holster are required to eliminate any drag or snags. The Phantom required none of this and was extremely fast out of the holster from day one. Due to its slight forward cant re-holstering comes naturally without having to get a visual on the holster first.

A final difference I noted with the Phantom is how it rides higher than any other kydex holster I currently own (Comp-Tac, Blade-Tech, Gideon, SideArmor, Cen-Dex and others). Generally speaking the Phantom rides approximately half an inch higher than the Comp-Tac and Blade-Tech holsters. When I first put it on I didn’t think I would like this added height. But, once again RCS proved me wrong. After running the Phantom in several classes I realized that I actually liked this small amount of added height better.

Left: RCS Phantom Modular Holster for Glock 19
Middle: One Source Gideon Holster for Glock 19
Right: Blade-Tech IWB Glock 19

Accessories

Since it’s virtually impossible for me to order just a holster I had to order some accessories to go along with my RCS Phantom. I ordered a double modular magazine carrier for standard support side carry and a single modular magazine carrier for strong side carry. All of the same positive attributes found with the Phantom holster come on the magazine carrier to include the open grommets, thin kydex and concave body hugging design. I had some concern about the larger profile of the RCS double magazine carrier since I wear my magazine carriers in front of my hip. I was worried it would dig into my upper leg/hip flexor when displacing to a speed kneeling position but again my concern was misplaced. The RCS magazine carriers ride just as nicely as the Phantom holster inside the waistband and out.

Conclusion

Overall I couldn’t be more pleased with the Raven Concealment Systems holsters and accessories I currently own. Last week I ordered 2 more RCS holsters and a couple more modular carriers. Having spoken now to several shooters running RCS holsters and gear it is apparent that RCS will soon be a dominant force in the holster industry. Despite their fairly new found success it is nice to know that the guys from Raven are easy to get a hold of either by phone (see number below) or via email if you have a question or concern about your product or if you have a custom tweak for your specific needs or requirements. At roughly $100 for an outstanding holster and magazine carrier you cannot go wrong with RCS.

Price:
Phantom Modular Holster: $69.95 + Shipping Phantom Holster

Phantom Modular Light Compatible Holster: $79.99 + Shipping Phantom LC Holsters

Magazine Carriers: Single 29.95 + Shipping, Double 49.95 + Shipping
Single & Double Modular Magazine Carriers

Raven Concealment Systems Phone: (440) 465-7111

About Chris Fry

Chris is the owner and director of training and curriculum development for Modern Defensive Training Systems in Utica, NY where he conducts courses in reality driven practical combatives, extreme close quarters physical defense, tactical folding knife and edged weapon combatives and combative pistol, carbine and shotgun skills. Chris has been an active instructor with Progressive F.O.R.C.E. Concepts in Nevada since 2003, servicing law enforcement, military and select government agencies. Chris is a certified AR15/M4/M16 and Glock armorer, contributor to various online firearms resource websites and a frequent presenter at national and international personal protection and small arms training conferences for both citizens and law enforcement. For more information see: www.MDTSTRAINING.com

ATTENTION USCCA MEMBERS!

The review you just read was written and photographed completely by a member of the USCCA.

Over 130,000 Armed Individuals will read this review, and be helped immensely because of it.

How would you like to have your gun or gear review published in this Armed American Report?

To have your review considered for publishing, simply email your word document with photos included or as separate attachments to gearreview@usconcealedcarry.com

Reviews should be between 800 and 1600 words long. Photos are encouraged and should be in .jpg format and less than 500 kb in size each.

I look forward to reading your submission.

P.S. - Be sure to include your full name and email address so I can reach you with questions or comments.

Quote of the Week

“No law ever prevented a crime.”

—Anonymous

USCCA Forum Highlights

Every paying website member has complete access to the USCCA forum, which is constantly being accessed by members sharing information, knowledge, insight, and fun. With well over sixty-thousand posts and growing by the hour, this is one heck of a valuable resource!

If you have never logged in but are a member, visit THIS location to watch help videos, including how to find out your username and/or password!

*******************

This week in the Forum Highlights I’m giving you an example of the responses members get from their posts. I want you all of you who aren’t yet members of our exclusive online members only forums to not only get a taste of the questions and other posts, but also the wonderfully informative replies.

Tips For A First Time Carrier

A few years ago I carried a 9mm Glock for a couple of days, just to see how it felt. I was nervous all day, like I was doing something wrong, and going to be caught. I was wondering if any other people have felt this way. It is a big deterrent to carrying.

I am currently the father of 2 little ones, and trying to choose a .380 for carry again. Any tips on kicking the heebe-geebes about carrying?

Free Downloadable Targets

I found this web site a while back and thought I’d share it.

This site has hundreds of free targets you can download and print out.

http://www.targetz.com/

Have fun!!!

Concealing In The Curves

Hey there….
I am new to carrying and my nickname comes from my granddaughter. So the curves I am referring to are that I am a serious grandma with curves, I do NOT resemble the Twiggy types (ok, i have dated myself) and I am struggling to get my handgun concealed. I originally purchased a Springfield Armory XD 9 but with these issues, concealment was just NOT happening and so i went to the S&W 642 .38 and when the really nice young man at the gun shop smiled and said I could always add it to my “box of holsters”.if it didn’t work out.. well you can imagine i was less than thrilled! He is awesome and is doing all he can to help me accomplish the goal. BUT . . .

I do not always wear jeans and a belt. I often wear a suit or that kind of thing that has no real substantive waistband. And then there is the fact that i am quite short-waisted and the lovely leather holster that fit in the curve of my waist nicely, well it held that gun like a croc with a chicken in its jaws and i couldn’t get it loose. no room to draw..and that is just one of the issues.

I have a paddle holster that is lovely but what i don’t need is another bum and it sticks a way out there on my hip. I have a Clipdraw which is good because there is no holster but on the flipside “there is no holster” and i feel a bit … well shall we say, exposed…so any suggestions that you all would have would be quite helpful. (No extra charge for the entertainment)
Lord’s blessings on each of you this new year!

Video of the Week

Would you ever hit a 101 year-old woman and rob her? This guy didn’t have any qualms committing the predatory act.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e-wTVnmHqoY

USCCA Photo of the Week

All Photos of the Week are taken from Mr. Oleg Volk’s website:
http://www.a-human-right.com/.

It is a fantastic site. Please check it out!

USCCA Self Defense Story

Every day, thousands of Armed Americans use their firearms to preserve human life. Let this section of my newsletter serve as a record of this fact!

December 21, 2009

Cleveland, Ohio

From: NBC4

Armed Robber Shot, Killed By Auto Sales Employee

Police say an armed man robbing an auto sales store in north Columbus was shot and killed by a store employee.

The shooting occurred at Advanced Auto Sales at 657 E. 5th Avenue about 5:00 PM Monday.

According to Columbus police, the shooting stemmed from an attempted robbery. The suspected robber entered the business and asked to use the restroom, then came out showing a gun and demanding cash.

Police told NBC 4 that the attendant gave the robbery suspect money, but he said it wasn’t enough and began pistol-whipping the attendant.  Another employee was able to retrieve a gun and shot the robber.

The robber was pronounced dead at the scene.

The employee suffered a broken nose and was treated and released from Grant Medical Center.

Police continue to investigate the robbery and shooting.  No charges have been filed at this time.

Closing Thoughts

Last Week’s Question: ANSWERED.

“I understand old ammunition can be dangerous. My question is, How old is TOO old?? Thank you!”

1895GG:

I have been reloading shotshells, rifle and handgun ammo since 1971 and have kept detailed records. I have shot ammo that I have loaded the day before and I have shot some that I had reloaded 30 years earlier. All has performed as desired. Although not measured for pressure or velocity, the 30 year old ammo appeared to perform just a good as newer ammo. I think one of the main factors to consider is how was the ammo (or components such as primers and powder) stored. If stored at “room temperature”, not too hot or too cold, there should not be any problem. For a more scientific answer, you might want to check with some of the ballisticians at an ammo or powder company.

“Old dude and long-time shooter”:

As in personal age, actual “age” depends more on usage than years. If the ammunition has been stored in a relatively dry area, it can be safe and effective for years. I have had shotgun shell dating back to the “paper hull” days that functioned perfectly well after years of storage. Conversely I have seen these same shells fail miserably (or even fail to enter the breech) after short-term storage in a damp environment. For brass encased loads (as most defense cartridges) the moisture tolerance for short-term storage is better, but can be bad in the long term.

Self Reliant:

Old ammunition, properly stored, should be almost as good as new. I am currently using ammunition that I purchased in the early 60’s. My confidence is based upon the fact that I have had control of this ammunition since its purchase. I always visually, by touch and chamber gauge check ammunition before using. Properly stored in sealed ammo containers, kept in cool dry conditions, under your control, should be fine. On the other hand, ammunition you get from some unknown person, has no history to trust. It all boils down to who do you trust??

Rick Chastain:

Regarding the safety of “old ammunition”, I do not consider myself any kind of expert but have never had any problems with old ammo. I still have some WWII surplus 30-06 ammunition that — so far — continues to perform flawlessly; no misfires, no odd pressure spikes, no erratic accuracy. Due to several household moves and a career that involes a lot of travel and consumes a great deal of my discretionary personal time, I am also just now firing some of my own handloads — and those left to me by my father — that are in excess of 40 years old. (We used to load in batches as large as 10,000 rounds.) I cannot speak for ammunition older than about 70 years, but so far, no problems. Basically, if I was 30 years old, I would have no fears about stockpiling a lifetimes worth of ammunition (for me, something in excess of 200,000 rounds).
This week’s question. Have an answer? Use the “Ask Tim” form below to give an answer- I’ll share them here next week!

Armed American Report Reader: I keep a .357 revolver in my car year round in the center console. It gets very hot in the car in the summer, and sometimes below zero in the winter. I have had no problems shooting the gun at all, but would like to know if these extreme temperature fluctuations will affect the gun in any way.

Do you have a pressing concern? Use the ‘Ask Tim’ contact form found at this page to let me hear your advice. Just use the graphic below!