Concealed Carry Report

March 26, 2010

Hello, fellow Armed Citizen.

These days, our government seems to be trying to remove our ability to rely on ourselves. It’s refreshing then, that you are here reading the Armed American Report, learning how to become even more self reliant.

Tactical Tim - At the range

by the USCCA

Good News for the Good Guys: FBI Crime Data Proves Gun Grabbers Wrong

…According to the Brady Campaign to Prevent Gun Violence (and other supporters of Barack Obama’s presidential campaign), “more guns = more crime…

by Jim Irvine and Chad D. Baus

According to the Brady Campaign to Prevent Gun Violence (and other supporters of Barack Obama’s presidential campaign), "more guns = more crime." The logical conclusion they hope lawmakers reach is that guns should be banned, or at least be severely restricted.

But changes to gun laws over the past five years, and data from the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Uniform Crime Reports (UCR), suggest something else entirely.

From an FBI press release announcing the release of the latest data:

The FBI’s Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) Program is a nationwide, cooperative statistical effort of more than 17,000 city, university and college, county, state, tribal, and federal law enforcement agencies voluntarily reporting data on crimes brought to their attention. Since 1930, the FBI has administered the UCR Program and continued to assess and monitor the nature and type of crime in the Nation. The Program’s primary objective is to generate reliable information for use in law enforcement administration, operation, and management; however, its data have over the years become one of the country’s leading social indicators. Criminologists, sociologists, legislators, municipal planners, the media, and other students of criminal justice use the data for varied research and planning purposes. In 2007, law enforcement agencies active in the UCR Program represented more than 285 million United States inhabitants–94.6 percent of the total population. The coverage amounted to 95.7 percent of the population in Metropolitan Statistical Areas, 88.0 percent of the population in cities outside metropolitan areas, and 90.0 percent of the population in nonmetropolitan counties.[1]

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) recently released the 2007 edition of Crime in the United States, which shows that both violent and property crimes fell in 2007.

According to the FBI, "the UCR program gathers offense data for violent and property crimes. Violent crimes are the offenses of murder and non-negligent manslaughter, forcible rape, robbery, and aggravated assault; property crimes are the offenses of burglary, larceny-theft, motor vehicle theft, and arson. The program also collects arrest data for violent and property crimes as well as 21 additional offenses that include all other offenses except traffic violations."

Before we dig into the UCRs, let us first consider the changes made to our gun laws from 2003 through 2007. During that five-year period, firearms laws have become less restrictive. We have seen passage of concealed carry laws in Colorado, Kansas, Minnesota, Nebraska, New Mexico and Ohio. We have seen the sunset of the Joe Biden-authored Federal "assault weapons" ban. No state has enacted significant bans on purchase or bearing of firearms. Firearms sales have been strong, and we have seen spikes in the purchase of firearms related to events such as hurricane Katrina and the Northeast Blackout of 2003. There are more gun owners and millions more firearms in the United States today than five years ago.

More guns, more crime? Not hardly. In fact, according to the past five years of FBI data, the murder rate has declined.

That’s right, the murder rate declined. You will hear from the anti-gun media and gun ban lobby that the number of murders increased (by 2.5%), but what they won’t tell you is that in the same time period, the American population has grown by 3.8% [2]. That means the murder rate (the "odds of being murdered") has decreased.

Drilling further into the data, we see that while the increase in use of firearms was 4.4%, we see a decrease of 5.0% (from 7,745 to 7361) in the number of murders committed with a handgun. Note — that is not a just a per capata decrease but a decrease in the total number of murders committed by a handgun over the last 5 year period. This decrease occurred in the midst of an explosion in handgun sales. Clearly the FBI data is exactly opposite of what the anti-gun groups have been preaching.

Anti-Gun = Anti-Good Guy

When considering killings by criminals (murder), we see that the instrument used by the criminal is a firearm 67% of the time, and more specifically a handgun 51% of the time. (Over the last five years, the percentage of killings by gun has remained fairly consistent, so we shall use the average for our comparison. Results would be very similar for specific data in any given year.)

The gun ban lobby uses these numbers to try to justify banning guns. If two-thirds of murders are committed with guns, and over one-half with handguns, they argue, then surely banning these things would decrease murders. But a closer examination reveals something interesting. For each murder, there is a victim. Sometimes those victims fight back and win the deadly encounter. When the intended victim kills the person trying to murder them (or do great bodily harm to them) it is called a "justifiable homicide."

Justifiable homicide –Certain willful killings must be reported as justifiable, or excusable. In the UCR Program, justifiable homicide is defined as and limited to:

*The killing of a felon by a peace officer in the line of duty.

*The killing of a felon, during the commission of a felony, by a private citizen.

Because these killings are determined through law enforcement investigation to be justifiable, they are tabulated separately from murder and nonnegligent manslaughter. Justifiable homicide information, which is collected by the FBI via the UCR Program’s SHRs, are included in this section and in Expanded Homicide Data Table 13, "Justifiable Homicide, by Weapon, Law Enforcement, 2003–2007" and Expanded Homicide Data Table 14, "Justifiable Homicide, by Weapon, Private Citizen, 2003–2007."

Using five-year averages from the UCRs, we see that 78% of these defensive killings are with firearms, and 63% with handguns. In other words, the good guy is 16% more likely to use a gun, and 23% more likely to use a handgun to save a life than a criminal is to take a life. So while there are many ways to kill another person, it is more likely for a good person to save their life with a gun, than for a bad person to take it with a gun.

Data on law enforcement officers killed in the line of duty was not available at the time of publishing, but there is still something to be learned about our police and their safety as it relates to guns. Using the same 5 year average data, we see that when law enforcement kills someone, they use a gun 99% of the time, and a handgun 86% of the time. There is a reason for these staggering statistics; police have studied and trained on the most effective and safe way to stop violent criminals. Use of a firearm is clearly the best and safest way to deal with violent aggressors. Police who want to go home to their families after a day’s work know how to defend their life with a firearm. Increasingly, citizens are doing the same thing.

A Few Observations From State Data

We often hear about differences in "rural and urban" areas and the need for different gun laws. States have vastly different gun laws and self-defense laws, and as one might expect, vastly different crime data. Looking at state by state data for 2007, we see that guns as a murder weapon ranged from 25% for Hawaii and North Dakota, to 79% for Louisiana. Looking only at handgun data, we see a variance from 11% in Iowa to 71% for Illinois.

Let us consider that last figure for a moment. 71% of Illinois murders are carried out with a handgun, despite the fact that Illinois suffers under what are arguably the most severe handgun restrictions in the country. It is one of only two states (along with Wisconsin, where it is also more likely than the average for murders to be committed with a handgun) that do not allow any form of concealed carry for its citizens. The state’s largest city (where close to one-half of Illinois residents, as well as Sen. Barack Obama, live) has a complete ban on handgun ownership. Even a retired police chief is not permitted to have a handgun in his house to defend his life. The FBI data prove that banning handguns does not stop murders from using them.

In late 2006, the Ohio General Assembly passed a bill that preempted local gun control laws, over the objections of big city mayors and even a veto by then-Gov. Bob Taft. Despite claims from big-city mayors that taking away their ability to enact still more oppressive gun control laws was robbing them of a valuable crime-fighting too, the many Republican and Democrat legislators who supported this bill recognized gun control as a failure, and understood that there was nothing to fear from trained, law abiding citizens being armed. The law went into effect in the early months of 2007, and the last FBI data support what Buckeye Firearms Association and pro-gun legislators knew all along: Crime is down in Ohio in nearly every sector.

Forty-eight states now have some form of concealed carry laws. No state has ever revoked their law once enacted. Each year, many states revise their firearms laws and remove restrictions on gun owners and permit holders. Every year formerly anti-gun people learn the truth and then starting supporting concealed carry laws, often becoming gun owners and license-holders themselves.

The FBI’s 2007 edition of Crime in the United States simply adds to the enormous pile of evidence showing that guns in the hands of good people are the best way to stop a violent criminal from harming you or a loved one.

 

Jim Irvine is the Buckeye Firearms Association Chairman. Chad D. Baus is the Buckeye Firearms Association Vice Chairman.

Footnotes:

[1] FBI Releases 2007 Crime Statistics, http://www.fbi.gov/pressrel/pressrel08/ucr091508.htm

[2] Annual Estimates of the Population for the United States, Regions, States, and Puerto Rico: April 1, 2000 to July 1, 2007, http://www.census.gov/popest/states/tables/NST-EST2007-01.xls

USCCA Toon of the Week

by Chaim’s Cartoons

How to Win Every Gun Control Debate

Gun Rights Roundup

by Buckeye Firearms Association

If you believe firmly in gun rights, you probably get into debates now and then. These debates usually start when someone you know says something like, “They should just ban guns. We’d have less crime.”

How do you win a debate like that? Do you scream and yell? Do you get in the other person’s face and call them an idiot? That’s a sure way to lose the debate, because all the other person will remember is what a jerk you were.

The way to win a debate is to present the facts, clearly and objectively. Most people don’t know much about guns, the Second Amendment, or crime. And they base their false ideas on myths and misinformation in the news. So if you’re able to rally the facts, you can often change your friend’s mind or at least get them thinking about the issue in a serious way.

Nearly every statistical study and crime report supports the pro-gun position and discredits the ravings of anti-gun fanatics. But it takes a lot of research to find all the facts. Fortunately, Guy Smith has done most of the work for you in a publication called Gun Facts.

This free, 100-page e-book presents the most common gun myths along with the facts that prove them false. Gun Facts gives you the ammunition you need to win debates, write letters to editors, e-mail your representatives, and give statements to the media.

Gun Facts is divided into chapters based on gun control topics (assault weapons, ballistic finger printing, firearm availability, etc.), so finding information is quick and easy. When a neighbor, journalist, or politician repeats one of these myths, you can look it up in seconds and debunk it with the facts.

Every pro-gun supporter should have a copy of Gun Facts. Click here to get your free copy.

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

And another fine week it was as AAR kicked off two new stations last week in Delray Beach FL at WDJA and KEYS in Corpus Christi TX!  More to come, I assure you.  This weeks lineup is going to be a GREAT one with Rob Pincus coming back from his European trip with a wealth of information and some fun stories, I’m sure.  In addition we’ll be talking to LT. Bill Hunt who is running for Orange County CA sheriff.  He’s a great American and a GREAT patriot.  Trust me on this one… Orange County CA could use a dose of freedom!

Also, Rob’s co-host of Best Defense TV will be here on AAR this week as we welcome back for his second appearance, Mr. Michael Bane.  Michael is one of those people whose cam voice and demeanor can make listening very, very easy.  He’s a great guest and you’ll enjoy the wealth of training info we’ll provide you with this weekend!

As a reminder, I will be taking Armed American Radio on the road next month, April, 11th  with a stop in Tucson for a book signing event sponsored by Tucson affiliate KNST to be followed by a LIVE broadcast from their Tucson studios.  The following weekend I will be bringing you the show from the Salem Radio Network Washington DC studios as the broadcast officially kicks of the Second Amendment March on the nations capital.

For more info please visit www.armedamericanradio.org and don’t forget to become a fan of the show on FACEBOOK for up to the minute breaking AAR news!  Also, pick up a copy of Lessons from Armed America at any major online book retailer!

I’ll see YOU on the radio!


Mark Walters

Letter to the Editor

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

Thank you for bringing to light the fact that disabled people not only want to and do carry for protection, but also are a larger target to attackers. I am a 24yr old who has become recently disabled during a truck accident where I was ran over by a pickup and now have a paralyzed right arm(I was right handed). During my attempt to get my life back to some sort of normalcy, one of the last things on my mind was carrying a firearm and learning to shoot one hand, weak hand. Thankfully I came to my senses before anything terrible happened to me. It has been two years since my accident, not only have I taught myself to shoot my Springfield XD .45 left handed, I am back to carrying comfortably everyday. I train at my local gun range about 3-4 times a month and have even become more proficient than I was when I could shoot with two hands! I can’t stress enough the importance for everyone to train themselves for many situations. Always ask yourself “What if?” Then train for that situation.

-Kyle Garrison Mooresville, NC

Just reading a letter from a reader who was concerned about his safety because of disgruntled employee, I thought back to the terrorist act at Fort Hood, Texas. This act reinforces that cowards seek those who cannot fight back. As a former soldier, and now a DOD civilian at a military installation, I have always felt my rights were violated when it came to owning and carrying a weapon. I have a CCW permit in the state in which I reside, however I am not allowed to legally carry on the installation where I work (I do because I would rather be judged by twelve than carried by six.)

After the Ft. Hood shooting, I had to pass through “enhanced” security: the civilian guards used a flashlight to look in the back seat of my vehicle as I went to work in the next week after the shooting. On one morning, as the guard was shining his light into the back seat of my truck, I asked why he had the flashlight in his (right) weapon hand. He immediately put the light in his left hand and put his right hand on the butt of his holstered weapon. I then asked him why he had put his hand on his weapon and he sheepishly dropped his weapon hand to his side. He was obviously flustered but I am of the opinion something deeper has been scratched: A badge and a gun mean nothing if the bearer does not have the spine to employ them.

I am a licensed CCW permit holder and continue to carry on the installation, to my place of employment( I work with crazies who could be on the cover of the next Newsweek) and for the sake of my family and my freedom, I will continue to carry until I am no longer physically capable. Our founding fathers died for our freedom; don’t let it slip away to deceptive legislation.

-G I Joey

Being a person who grew up in a state where shooting and hunting were part of life and growing up, I have handled, shot and killed game since five years of age, took my first buck a four pointer, at seven years of age with a twenty gauge shotgun. I can’t keep count of how many deer I have killed but have provided Venison to my family and ,many who were too poor to buy meat. I am a Veteran, former U.S. Army Ranger and Fifth Special Forces Operator. I was assigned to MACV Services and Observation in Vietnam; and have extensive combat experience as well as law enforcement experience.

I am proud to say that I am a Life Member in Good Standing of the NRA, The U.S.C.C.A. and have a CCWP that is good in 38 states. I carry concealed everywhere it is legal and am prepared to defend myself, family and anyone according to the laws and our Second Amendment of the Constitution of the United States; as my family has since coming to this country prior to 1700 from Scotland via Ireland. I have doctors, jurists, and many attorneys in my lineage and am a Member in good standing of the Sons of the American Revolution !

I take all of my Rights Seriously; took an Oath to PROTECT AND SERVE THIS COUNTRY TO WHICH I STILL FEEL OBLIGATED AND WILL ABIDE BY FROM ANY ENEMY, FOREIGN OR DOMESTIC. This is a right , NO an “Obligation” to stand by and protect and serve this country, its Constitution and the Amendments as originally penned by our founding fathers ! Please do not print my e mail address or name as I need to make sure my family and friends are kept safe. A True and Honest Citizen of The United States of America and all for which This Country Stands !

-Anonymous

I really like “Tactical Tim.” LOL. The video with the Glock is terrific. The mention of looking down the bore of a .45 cal. is right on. A long time ago, (over 50 years) I experienced an inmate attempting to escape from a USAF detention facility pointing a 1911 pistol at my face from about three feet away. It was scary and I prefer that that it don’t happen again. Today I am almost 80 and carry a .40 cal. Taurus just in case it is ever needed. Ken, th’ ol’ Desert Rat btw, I convinced the escapee he should hand the 1911 to me but first and he complied. He knew my 1911 was loaded & I didn’t know his wasn’t loaded. LOL

-Anonymous

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

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!

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My Son Wants To Go Hunting With Me

Hi everyone my first post/thread. My son is 6 and a half yrs old and wants to go deer hunting with me this year, specifically he wants to shoot his first deer. I am considering getting him a .223 rifle. Any thoughts on a good rifle that wouldn’t have too much recoil?

I don’t want him to be afraid of shooting because the recoil of the first shot. I know enough to start him out with a .22 but he won’t be able to hunt with that. Any thoughts on a good caliber for a youth to hunt with would be greatly appreciated.

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Wife Still In Denial

Maybe some of you remember the effort I made getting a pistol for my wife. A S&W M&P 40, and how she never really took to it? And how, now it’s on my hip everyday rather than being in the safe unfired? Well, today she related a story of how last week she was at work and heard a noise and went to investigate (she works alone, in a church, in the middle of nowhere two or three days a week). There stands this guy she doesn’t know, inside the church which she thought was locked. Turns out he’s there to sell copying machines or some such. I could tell it freaked her out. She called a church elder about the door after he left and turns out the lock was malfunctioning and nobody knew it.

She’s standing there, telling me about the lock, and how it’s supposed to be fixed next week, and what the pastor said, and blah, blah, blah. . . .
I said, "Let’s play ‘pick a color’. You tell me what color popped into your head as you stood looking at a stranger standing in your ‘locked and safe’ church. I assume we can rule out white, since it obviously caught you off-guard. So was it yellow, orange or red?"
She stared at me, searching my eyes for a clue to the answer.
"I don’t know," she said.
"Sooo, what was your first thought upon seeing him standing there? What was plan B?"
"Oh, to get him out of there as quick as I could!", she said.
"No," I said. "I mean, what if he hadn’t been there to sell copiers?"

You could practically hear the sound of crickets.

I swear! Does she really need a building to fall on her? Am I off-base here for being upset? This isn’t just her we’re talking about. She will let a husband, kids, and a life behind, even if she survives an attack. She could be scarred for life or killed, and it doesn’t even register! I’ve had the talks, I’ve bought the tools,  and I’ve offered the guidance. She knows how I am and what the world can be, and yet STILL she chooses to keep her head in the sand!

I’m open to suggestions. Am I overreacting?

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Draw, Rack, Fire Till Empty, Stress Reload, Holster

I am a retired law enforcement officer, going back as reserve, I need to re-qualify and I don’t want to look like an old man (61)

Here is what is going on my draw isn’t as quick as it once was, I can’t always re-holster and get it in with a few tries and looking most of the time.

My stress reloads are slowed too, so I need to get some good practice by the end of the month and at that point I need to qualify and get 40 hours of field training.

Please share your ideas.

Video of the Week

What do you have on your person or with you to treat gunshot wounds that you will most likely sustain if you ever have to use your weapon to save your life? A package of Celox and some gauze could make  a life or death difference.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5WmxV6B9hUU

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!

March 3, 2010

Bakersfield, California

From: Bakersfield

Man Holds Suspected Burglar At Gunpoint Until Police Arrive

 He’s 70 years old, and his health isn’t what it used to be, but Raymond Michel is not someone who should be taken lightly.

The south Bakersfield resident shot at a suspected burglar in his house Wednesday afternoon and held the man at gunpoint until police arrived. The suspect, identified by police as John Jenaro Garner, tried to get up twice, but Michel warned him to stay down.

"I told my wife to call the cops because (the burglar) was staying here one way or another," Michel said.

Bakersfield police Lt. Andrew Garner, no relation to the supsect, confirmed that Raymond Michel was the man who shot at the suspect.

Michel and his wife, Dawn, had returned home on Ivan Avenue about 1 p.m. after taking their grandson to a doctor’s appointment. The 9-year-old grandson noticed a light on in a downstairs bedroom and asked his grandmother if she had left it on.

Dawn Michel said she looked in the room and noticed some items weren’t where they were supposed to be. Then she and her grandson went outside and saw a garbage bag on the ground, along with a window screen that had been knocked out of a second-floor window. Jewelry and money were in the bag.

Dawn Michel told her husband someone had been in the house. Raymond Michel said he armed himself with a handgun and walked upstairs.

Items from the bedroom closet were strewn about the floor, and Raymond Michel noticed that the bathroom door was almost completely closed. He and his wife always keep that door open.

He kicked the door, and it stopped partway as it struck the intruder, Raymond Michel said. The suspect stepped from behind the door and leveled a rifle at the homeowner, he said.

Raymond Michel, who said he was holding his handgun at waist level, pulled the trigger. The bullet went through the door, shattered the upper left corner of the mirror and entered the wall.

The suspect dropped to the floor, and Raymond Michel at first thought he had hit him. But then the intruder tried to get up, Raymond Michel said.

Raymond Michel said he told him to stay down and kept the gun pointed at him. His wife called 911.

The dispatcher told Dawn Michel to get outside.

Police soon arrived and took John Garner into custody. Police said John Garner had drugs in his possession and was wanted on an outstanding misdemeanor warrant.

The rifle the suspect had armed himself with was taken from a closet in the house, Raymond Michel said.

Raymond Michel, a retired electrician, was calm as he told his story Wednesday evening, and he said he didn’t seem to be nervous or scared when he confronted the intruder.

Dawn Michel, however, said she was on edge from the ordeal.

"I haven’t eaten yet," she said.

USCCA Q&A

Last Week’s Question: ANSWERED.

My wife and I are new to guns in general and concealed carry specifically. How should we go about finding the “right” gun for each of us? Is there a method or procedure that would help us find our gun? Also related which type/style of concealed carry? Thanks for the great service you offer your members, which I have just become in the last week. Geoff, Ct..

Shawk:

AS new commers to the shooting arena you and your wife might consider looking in to the use of a revolver such as the Ruger sp101. I would recommend a 357 magnum but you should start out shooting 38 special ammo in the gun. A wheel gun is simple to use. Since it is double action all you have to worry about is sight picture and pulling the trigger.If you want a semi auto I would start out with a 9mm Glock again a pretty simple gun to use and not a lot of recoil. AS you become more experienced in the shooting game you can move up to heaver caliber guns if you want. AS far a CCW rigs you will just have to try different holsters until you find one that fits your needs. Just remember to practice practice practice and welcome to the world of shooting

Larry in Virginia:

I am no expert but it is vitally important that you select the right handgun from the very beginning. If you have a firing range that offers several different calibers and types of handguns, for rental, you must try them out. Do fire revolvers and semi-automatics, they each have their pluses and minuses. The handgun should be of a model and caliber that does not intimidate due to excessive recoil. The handgun must “fit” the user’s hand and allow complete control and manipulation of all safety devices. The sights must be of a type to allow rapid sight acquisition. The holster you elect to buy should allow for comfortable and concealable wear with your normal daily attire. These are some of the considerations I use when purchasing a firearm. Beyond that, once you have the proper “fit” in a handgun Practice, Practice Practice!

Anonymous:

If you are new to guns, my advice is to take an intro to handguns class at your local range or a firearms training facility. Pick one that includes test firing on a range. My wife took such a class when she decided to get her CHL (Concealed Handgun License). The class had a classroom session that taught basic handgun use and safety and a practical session which allowed her to trial 20 different pistols and revolvers of most popular calibers and frame sizes. This was well worth the time and money and resulted in a far better informed choice than taking a few peoples well intended recommendations.

Anonymous :

I own a small gun shop and I get these two questions several times a week. “How should we go about finding the “right” gun for each of us? Is there a method or procedure that would help us find our gun?”

1. The least expensive way is to find a friend or friends who have different types of guns and ask them to let you try them, offering to buy the ammunition is a very good idea. For my friends I supply the ammunition since I reload and choose to do so. I also can suit the power level of ammunition from light target loads in a revolver to romper-stompers depending on the person trying without spending a lot of money for the same levels of power in factory loads.
2. Failing that go to your local gun shop and get a feel for as many different styles as you can. Then either ask to try them at the shop’s range or find a range that has them for rent. This is not as inexpensive as trying a friend’s gun but beats
3. Buying several before finding the one you want which is the last option. I have found that trying the “feel” of different guns in a shop is a good way to get an idea of what you might end up with BUT the final solution will involve shooting as this is the only way to get a “real feel” for yourself.

“…which type/style of concealed carry?” This is more complex. What is your normal style of dress? Is it consistent with carrying a gun, of the size you’ve chosen? Are you willing to change your dress style if it isn’t? If your dress style is more important than the gun (dress code at work for example) you must take that into consideration when you look for the gun. The different styles of carry also come into play. Belt holster master arm side or cross-draw, appendix carry or behind the hip, small of the back? Inside the pants, ankle, belt pack, etc. Off body carry in a purse or man-purse are also options.

The choice of fashion style and gun along with accessories such as reloads, magazines or speed loaders, knife, etc., must be considered. Getting advice from instructors, friends, the girl in the gun shop, etc., should be evaluated by you with your lifestyle and willingness to adapt or not.

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 live in North Central Texas. Are there any shooting organizations which can hone shooting skills realistically for CHL holders? I have noted the competitive ones all neglect real self defense situations that ordinary citizens will most likely face. They don’t teach reacting to a danger, drawing from concealed carry and realistically engaging targets. Are there any clubs or organizations which teach on said subjects?

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!

March 5, 2010

Hello, fellow Armed Citizen.

I began passing a Jeep Liberty on the freeway yesterday, and I noticed a USMC sticker in their rear window. I grinned, but as I squinted to read the sticker opposite of it, my grin quickly turned to tears. It was a sticker of two dog-tags that said "MY SON, MY HERO. KIA IRAQ 2009".

I felt like I’d just been kicked in the gut. I was enjoying sunshine and an open road, and it hit me hard like a ton of bricks that the reason why I even had a day to enjoy was because of fearless Americans like the Marine to whom that sticker was dedicated.

This, and every issue of the Armed American Report is dedicated to the men and women who have sacrificed so much to bring us the freedoms we enjoy.

God bless each and every one of them, and to them I say: Thank You.

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

by the USCCA

There’s something very, very powerful about carrying a concealed weapon…

It’s that feeling you get knowing that you are able to protect yourself and your loved ones should trouble occur.

It’s a powerful feeling.

To know deep in your gut that you are trained and prepared to act in the face of danger.

And to know that you are contributing to the security of your community.

Friends, I’m writing to you today to warn you.

That feeling you get when you carry can be great… but it can also be deadly.

Here’s the reason:

Your Concealed Weapon Can’t Protect You
Against the Threats You Aren’t Trained to See

Carrying a concealed weapon can make you feel pretty safe and well protected.

And that’s the problem. Because “believing you’re safe” is the first step to missing potential threats that are all around you.

No, I’m not talking about a large masked thug rushing at you on the street. That’s a pretty easy threat to spot, and one that almost never happens.

I’m talking about threats that are much more subtle and far more likely. And because of that, much more dangerous.

Click HERE to Learn More…

A Brutal Defense - The Fighting Attitude for the Disabled & Use of the Common Cane

…There is no fair fighting in a fight for your life or limbs…

by Cody Alderson

Civilians have a very difficult time understanding that a defense cannot be played out as if one is the good guy in an old western. There is no fair fighting in a fight for your life or limbs. Untold numbers of new concealed carry first-time class goers invariably have the fellow student who asks, "Can’t I just shoot him in the leg?"

By our very nature we are not of the same ilk as the sociopath who targets us. This very fact of our nature makes it difficult for the civilian, who most likely has never been involved in a life or death violent encounter, to take the appropriate defensive action unless it has been successfully ingrained by repetition.

Repetition of rote training of draw, fire, assess, as well as things like tap and rack to clear a jam. It needs repeated over and over again until the muscles have been trained to the point of being able to duplicate the complex maneuvers, the same as how repetition finally allowed us to successfully drink from a cup instead of a bottle with a nipple on it.

Repetition helps a fit civilian to begin to even the odds in a violent encounter, but the attacker is by default at an advantage simply for being the attacker. Civilians are further disadvantaged by (thankfully) not having to regularly endure life or death violent encounters. Direct experience builds points of reference to draw on and learn from for future events that may occur. A battle hardened warrior who has seen much combat has knowledge that a civilian does not, and hopefully never will, have.

A civilian defensive operator (my term for the civilian with a permit to carry a concealed weapon) who is disabled in one way or another is more disadvantaged than a fit civilian with no handicaps. The disabled are more likely to also be a preferred target of many a sociopathic predator.

A gun is a great defensive tool for many of those with varying degrees and types of disabilities. Of course a gun is a lethal or deadly force weapon that can only be used to defend one’s life in the event that one is in imminent fear of death or grave bodily harm. (This is based on my state of residence. The reader needs to know the specifics of law in his own jurisdiction.)

Though in theory a disabled person needs to practice defensive maneuvers more than most fit individuals to attain the best level of proficiency attainable, it is actually less likely that a disabled person will, in fact, practice more. The disability may prevent a regular regimen of scheduled practice. So for the disabled who are reading this article, let me encourage you to incorporate into your life some structured practice that is followed as religiously as possible.

Let’s put the gun training aside for this article and focus on developing an instant and explosive counter to an initial attack from a predator. Let’s say for purposes of this article that you can readily interpret the language of when the first strike is coming. For our scenario, you do have a holstered gun on your body but have not been justified in displaying it or using it yet.

We can’t walk or wheel around with our gun held in our shooting hand within the confines of normal public society. That cashier at the convenience store would be just as upset as your waitress at the restaurant if you tried that. And I know that the officer you may encounter won’t be happy to see that gun in your hand. But actually having a weapon in your hand is advantageous for repelling a sudden violent attack. A gun inside a coat pocket with that shooting hand in a proper grip is the next best thing, but even this is not a perfect fix to gaining an advantage. Actually, there is no "perfect" fix, but there are some that are better than others.

If your disability requires you to use a cane, this will be right up your alley. If your disability is evident or visible in public, then I do recommend considering the addition of a cane as an always-with-you accessory. Even if your disability has nothing to do with your legs, if you can incorporate the use of a cane, try it for awhile.

Not just any cane either. Try a regular wooden crook handle cane. No fancy handles, no metal with push button extension pieces, just plain wood with the crook handle. I’m trying to get a manufacturer to make one out of a particular polycarbonate that will look like wood, but take extreme abuse. I haven’t heard back from them as of the date of this article submission.

If you use a quad, or other specialty cane due to the particulars of your handicap, then you can adapt some things I’m going to talk about. The reasons I recommend the plain cane is that it gets through just about every security checkpoint easier than anything fancy ever will. Security is on the lookout for sword and other types of cane weapons, but a plain cane is just an adaptive device to enable the disabled.

I am a very big advocate of teaching defensive operators to not call attention to their selves. We should not want to look like the person who is carrying any sort of weapon. Oh I can hear it now. "What about looking dangerous to criminals?" Yes, there is merit in presenting yourself as aware and confident. But if you have a visible handicap, you are already higher up on the "pick me" list for criminals.

A cane in the hand of a disabled person is a weapon that can be instantly deployed. It is also very versatile. It can be used in a fashion to allow time to draw a primary weapon, it can be used in instances that a gun cannot, and it can also be used as a primary lethal force weapon.

I would really like everyone to realize that they aren’t as tough as they think they are, but I’d especially like . . . Oh how do I say this politely? I’d like all of us old, fat, handicapped guys to particularly realize it! Although there are most certainly exceptions to the rule, it is more likely that a twenty-two year-old hoodlum will be able to run faster, jump higher, and hit harder than a seventy year-old retired Buick salesman.

This makes the brutality of defensive response to a physical attack of great concern to me as I consider how one should respond to attack if he happens to be disabled to one degree or another. There are so many legal considerations I wouldn’t be able to address them here. Know your laws in considering what I’m about to say.

The defensive operator is the only one who can truly judge what to do if attacked. Laws are in place to judge those who go beyond what society has considered an appropriate response. The disparity of force issue comes into play when a disabled person is attacked by a so-called physically fit criminal.

I could fill a book with subtle dynamics of force response as could any person who teaches or discusses this stuff. So instead of selling you an encyclopedia, let’s just stick to basics. A muscular hoodlum punching an old woman in her face to take her purse could very well kill her with a solitary punch. That same old woman cracking her cane over the thug’s head may only raise a slight welt.

Sure there is the possibility of a freak accident happening where the old woman causes a concussion inside the thug’s head that could lead to his death, but statistically for the mentioned scenario, it is unlikely.

So let me just repeat instructions that I gave to my mom who walked with a cane, but did not carry a gun. She knew how to use one, but didn’t carry. I remember her racking a twelve gauge out an open living room window when two criminals were trying to break into the house through the basement door when I was a kid, but she didn’t carry.

My mom died a few years ago. When she became a frail senior I taught her what to do to up her odds of surviving a violent encounter by utilizing her cane. I taught her all about the more sensitive areas of the human body that civilian martial arts schools  teach to avoid in sparring and training.

I taught my mom to attack the face of an attacker with as much force as she could physically muster. I taught her that blinding a criminal trying to hurt her with any sharp object, or even using her fingers, was more preferable to me than having to attend her funeral or visiting her in the hospital.

I taught her that slamming that cane up into the throat of an attacker in hopes of cutting off his ability to breathe was better than her getting her hip broken by him shoving her down onto a sidewalk.

I taught her to only go a bit lighter when hitting an attacker’s testicles for the simple fact of how the brain responds to trauma. When trauma is severe, the brain cuts off the full effect of pain. A smack to the testicles will allow more pain to be felt than what would be felt from a really hard hit.

The point is to cause pain to an attacker as well as to physically make it impossible for him to continue his attack. A disabled person has to be choosey about where they hit an attacker in the act of self-defense. Punching the attacker in the stomach would not be disabling if my mom was the one hitting the hypothetical attacker of my instructive sessions. Whacking his ears, elbow or wrist joints, bridge of the nose, or throat with that cane of hers would cause pain at a threshold high enough to allow small amounts of time to mount an even more aggressive counter attack.

A hard smack of a wooden cane right in the lips, at the temple, and at the base of the skull can work wonders to deter all but the most determined attackers. The problem was that my mom wasn’t strong enough in her frail years to inflict enough trauma to an attacker to make it physically impossible for him to continue an attack.

However she was strong enough to target and sustain multiple hits on an attacker who had not yet caused her any disabling trauma. She probably could have kept hitting for about thirty seconds to a minute under the influence of adrenalin. Couple that with screaming her head off, and she might have had a chance against some attackers.

So there it is. The disabled need to really put their all into hitting vulnerable pain causing, and disabling areas of an attacker until either the attacker gives up, help arrives, or a gun is successfully deployed and employed (if appropriate).

Having a weapon in hand at all times while out in public is of great benefit. And a plain old wooden crook handle cane that easily gets through most security without questions is a great tool to add to the repertoire. Even if you don’t need a cane, I’d still recommend considering the benefits of having one with you where firearms aren’t allowed.

If a friend asks why you have a cane at the school play, you can explain your need of assistance with that bum knee, ankle, leg, hip, foot, or whatever is causing some problems occasionally. No need to even lie because as we age stuff starts to hurt. If you are out among strangers, they have no idea what your handicap is or isn’t.

Seriously, have you ever wondered if that person you see with a cane actually is handicapped or not? If it’s not that obscure uncle who you know is scamming a disability claim, then we just don’t think about it. However we do pay more attention to fancy or quad canes by nature. That’s why I recommend the plain old cane.

A cane in the hands of a moderately disabled person can be quite an effective self-defense tool. In the hands of someone who is mildly disabled it is even more effective. Wrap a leather wrist strap around it so it can’t get knocked out of your hands. That’s the only accessory I would recommend.

The cane can strike, leverage, poke, hook, and so much more. It can help you back to your feet, and even help stabilize to prevent going to the ground. And it doesn’t take years of practice to be able to do a good amount of counter attack damage. Try one.

Think about how well it may have worked to whack a few nuts with box cutters who changed the way we look at everything here in our Great Land. A cane can be carried in more places and with less scrutiny than any other weapon. That’s because it isn’t a weapon until it is used as a weapon.

USCCA Toon of the Week

by Chaim’s Cartoons

Is President Obama still a threat to gun rights?

Gun Rights Roundup

by Buckeye Firearms Association

Some mainstream media pundits claim that Obama is not a threat to gun rights. Their reasoning? After a year in office, he has not done or said anything significant about guns. But is that reason to believe that he has turned pro-gun or that he has adopted an agnostic position on the Second Amendment?

Let’s take a look at the record. As a senator and presidential candidate, Obama …

• Endorsed a complete ban on handgun ownership in Illinois.
• Supported gun bans in Chicago and Washington, D.C.
• Supported the elimination of concealed carry nationwide.
• Voted for the prosecution of citizens who use firearms in self-defense.
• Voted to allow lawsuits intended to bankrupt the firearms industry.
• Supported reinstating the Clinton assault weapons ban.
• Voted to ban rifle ammunition used for hunting and sport.
• Supported gun registration for law-abiding gun owners.
• Refused to sign a court brief affirming the individual right to bear arms.
• Served on the Board of the Joyce Foundation, the #1 source of funds for anti-gun groups.
• Supported a ban on gun stores within five miles of any school or park.
• Voted to prevent gun owners from knowing when Illinois ran record searches.
• Supported mandatory micro-stamping for gun manufacturers.
• Supported the creation and enforcement of mandatory waiting periods.
• Supported the one-gun-a-month rule on gun sales.
• Supported banning cheap handguns.
• Supported banning police departments from reselling firearms.
• Supported mandatory training for all gun owners regardless of cost.
• Supported a ban on gun ownership for anyone under 21.

Are we to believe that a liberal politician with an anti-gun record like this has so quickly changed his views? What will Obama’s agenda look like if he’s able to push through his health care bill and move on to other issues?

It is naïve, bordering on foolish, to assume that Obama is no longer a threat to gun rights. He was, is, and will remain a threat until he is ex-President Obama.

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

Folks it was a very unique week for me here at Armed American Radio. ON Monday I had the distinct opportunity to be a guest/co-host for a full hour on the G. Gordon Liddy show, heard on over 200 markets. It was a great opportunity to take our case to an even bigger listening audience.

That was Monday…we all know what happened on Tuesday, right? The US Supreme Court heard the McDonald vs Chicago “gun ban case”. All indications from the courtroom are strong and seem to support the Court “incorporating” the 2nd amendment to the states. Joining me this week on Armed American Radio to discuss this case and the hearing in DETAIL will be Mr. Dane Von breichenhardt, the President of the US Bill of Rights Foundation and original architect of the Heller case. Dane will offer his insight as to what we can expect when the court renders its decision, expected in June of this year.

Additionally, you may be aware that CSU Board of Governors has voted unanimously to ban lawful carry of guns on its two campuses at Ft. Collins and Pueblo. Well a certain Sheriff has decided that it is not in the best interest of the board to do so and has made it very clear that he will not enforce the boards unconstitutional act. Laramie County Sheriff Alderden will be here to talk about it on AAR.

Don’t miss this week, folks! For more information and to find out where to listen, please visit www.armedamericanradio.org

Also, become a fan at Facebook and follow me at www.twitter.com/aarmark.

I’ll see YOU on the radio THIS week, Sunday 3-7-10 at 8-11 PM EST, 5-8 PM PST, coast to coast on one of the fastest growing radio shows in America!

Mark

Young Americans want their liberties, too!

by Rick Walker

Have you ever seen an article in the news that makes you wonder where the country is headed?  The ones I’m talking about concern young people who tend to show their ignorance of and lack of interest in things like the Second Amendment and gun rights?  Well, there is a large number of young folks out there who are working as hard as you are to ensure we get to keep those rights. The group I’m talking about is the Students for Concealed Carry on Campus.

Imagine this scenario: You are at least 21 years old. You have a concealed carry permit, issued by your county’s sheriff. You have decided that you want to start a local organization of like minded people.  It would be for social and educational purposes such as enhancing knowledge and sharing information. 
You are told by the local government that you cannot do such a thing, purely due to it being related to guns. Nor would you be able to locally advertise in support of such an organization. And you certainly would be denied the use of any of the government’s facilities to have a meeting of such people.  Use the “Community Center”?  Well, not in this community, you don’t. 

Wouldn’t you be outraged at such treatment?  Especially when this treatment is prohibited by state law and the US Constitution?  Well, it is happening right now, all over the country!  The great news is that there are many of our very best young Americans (and some not so young) working very hard to change this situation.  It is called the Students for Concealed Carry on Campus, and they are continually working to eliminate such restrictions where and when they find them.  And they need your help to do more of this very important work. 

Here are some examples:

From a then-24 year old freshman in Pennsylvania:   

"When my college tried to infringe my freedom of speech because they did not want me talking about my Second Amendment rights, the Foundation for Individual Rights in Education came to my aid. If you google my name it will not be hard to find the news stories about it. “

“I won, though it took 7 months to teach my college about the 1st Amendment, forcing CCAC to retract its unconstitutional solicitation policy and allow me to form a chapter of SCCC on a campus where a dean had told me "this would NEVER be allowed here" and I will win every battle like this because I am on the side of liberty and justice and anyone who opposes me is doing so out of an emotional fear and will not have a rational argument. If you find yourself in any similar situation I will help, and I will find help for you. “

Imagine a public college denying a citizen the 1st Amendment right because they wanted to use it to promote 2nd Amendment rights! However, this is more common than it should be - so we need to stand up and make ourselves heard."   Just like she did.

Fox News’ Kelley Beaucar Vlahos reported at the time that . . . .
“The latest flare-up involves Christine Brashier, who says officials at the Community College of Allegheny County (CCAC) violated her First Amendment right to free speech when they stopped her from posting and distributing fliers advocating for concealed carry on campus, and for a new chapter of Students for Concealed Carry on Campus (SCCC) at the college. The group has about a dozen chapters on other Pennsylvania campuses, Shibley said.

"I genuinely wanted to start discussion on the topic," Brasier told FOXNews.com this week. " I am not such an avid gun owner as much of the news has made me out to be — I simply believe in liberty and that college is the place for a debate about important issues such as this one."

Brashier maintains she was hauled into a meeting with the dean, who told her "that the club would never be approved, that the school did not wish to discuss the topic, and to cease speaking about it as well as destroy the literature."
David Hoovler, a school spokesman, told FOXNews.com that Brashier was a good student and that the incident had nothing to do with the issue of firearms on campus.  The student government has the authority for approving campus organizations, he said, (emphasis added) and it’s all about procedure”.

But is it really about procedure?  Or about control, and treating students like children?  This is certainly not treating people like the voting-age, non-criminal adults that they must be to obtain a concealed carry permit.  Again from the

Fox News article:

“In March (2009), Central Connecticut State University student John Wahlberg and two classmates gave a presentation for their communications class on whether the death toll at Virginia Tech might have been smaller if faculty and students had been allowed to carry guns. That night, Wahlberg says, he was called into the campus police department, which already had a list of his registered guns, which were locked away off-campus.”

“Wahlberg’s professor had reported him to security out of "safety" concerns, according to The Recorder, the campus newspaper.
Certainly, campus officials and campus law enforcement are against the idea of more guns in private citizens’ hands at school.

Lisa Sprague, president of the International Association of Campus Law Enforcement Administrators, said the group put out a position statement after the Virginia Tech incident against concealed carry on campus. They say there is "no credible evidence to suggest that the presence of students carrying concealed weapons would reduce violence on our college campuses," and could even serve to create more dangerous situations.”

Well, in the current case before the courts in Colorado, the proof that Ms. Sprague says she is seeking is plain for all to see.

During the timeframe that concealed carry was allowed on campus,  the last seven years, the crime rate at that campus went down, significantly and steadily. It is now at about one third of its former level.  Rapes have fallen 84%.  Shouldn’t this get someone’s attention in a positive way? 

Nearly lost in that current battle is the fact that the students at CUS have done a perfect job of not having any incidents involving those firearms that they carry. Is that not a "double win"?  Less crime and none of the bad outcomes the administration, Brady and Violence Policy Center keep warning us about?  Ah, sorry, you must be dreaming of an earlier time . . . .  

This year, the CSU Faculty Policy Committee, decided a "feel-good" gun ban was needed.  The student body clearly is opposed to this policy.  Imagine their shock when the University’s Board of Directors, led by the president of the university, overturned the vote of the student body!
Aren’t the administrators the ones who have kept saying it is all up to the students in their ability to self-govern?  Another lie, obviously.  It apparently means you can do what you want, students, as long as we agree. 

 

What a way to set the example!  They just want you to think you have say over your lives.  Well, you can still vote, can’t you? 

Are you outraged yet?  Are you ready to act?  If you are thinking "no, not in my state, not at my son’s and daughter’s campus”, you are, unfortunately mistaken.  This IS the case in the vast majority of campuses across the United States.  Think it does not apply to you, just because you are older?  Wrong.  Think it doesn’t apply to you because you are a retired law enforcement person.  Wrong again.  Former military?  Again, you are mistaken. 

 

Everyone, not just students, is prohibited from carrying a gun on most campuses except active police.  As indicated by the three robberies in the last month on our local University of Washington campus, this policy does not seem to work, preventively speaking.

So, what are you going to do about it?  Whatever it is, start now.  Educate your children and grandchildren about the importance of their rights wherever they are, including college campuses.  Have them join SCCC.   And you can too.  Take action yourselves to help bring these schools to their senses concerning the basic human right to self-defense, let alone the right to carry on campus.
This effort is primarily won or lost at the local and state level, and there is where we most need your help. 

We also need campus leaders, state and regional directors, and not all of them need to be active students.  We also need trainers and advisors for campuses to help them learn the “right stuff,” and to assist them with the pursuit of changes to local and state laws and regulations.

They also need your advice, your knowledge and your connections to ranges, training, state, county and city politicians and law enforcement officials, and to prospective donors who might be willing to help their fight for human rights.
Welcome to this part of the fight to restore the basic rights of adults.  Volunteer early and often!

Please email us at CCM@concealedcampus.org for more information, and to learn what you personally can do to help in your specific area, on the campus of your choice. 

We want to thank very much the US Concealed Carry Association for helping us to bring this important message to you. And if you want to sign up your favorite college student with USCCA, please go to our website (http://www.concealedcampus.org/) to do so. USCCA has agreed to make a donation to us for everyone who joins their group through ours.  Same great USCCA benefits and prices, while helping our young people continue SCCC’s important work.

——————————

What is Students for Concealed Carry on Campus? 

Born out of the Virginia Tech shootings, and raised through the magic of the Internet, SCCC began as a Facebook page.  It was formed for the discussion of this single issue, on-campus carry. This became a very hot topic as the story at VA Tech unfolded in April of 2007. Seemingly overnight, the members of the Facebook page grew extremely fast. It went from zero to over 20,000 members in a very short time. The organization grew from below, finally getting campus, state and national leadership in place.

There was no shortage of volunteers from among the students and even some from the staff and faculty of colleges and universities around the country.  Communications became difficult as the number of members, now nearly 43,000, overwhelmed Facebook’s limits.  SCCC has leaders at almost four hundred campuses in nearly every state in America. If you search Facebook for groups under “Concealed Carry students” you will
see 381 different groups.  Your favorite campus may be among them.

Note:  All SSSC members are unpaid volunteers.

Author: Rick Walker, SSSC board member, USCCA member, Colonel, US Army, Retired

Thanks to Christa Brashier, Kacey Cooper, David Burnett, and Jim Manley, SSSC Regional or State Directors, for their contributions, as well as Fox News.

Quote of the Week

“I brought way too much ammo for this gunfight.”

—Never uttered by anyone who has had to use a gun to defend their life

Letter to the Editor

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

Greetings, I am a retired Army Ranger and firm believer in the right to carry. Recently a friend whom I had not seen in some time found himself in my neck of the woods and dropped in for a visit. When he learned that not only do I carry a gun, but I carry a “Back-up” gun as well he told me:”What’s with all the firepower? You’re not in Iraq anymore!”.

I replied:”Anyone who does not take every precaution to ensure their safety is just another victim waiting for their turn”. He said that was a very “Paranoid” way to think. I disagree, so you be the judge; is it overkill, or is it just being prepared.

On any given day I carry a Springfield XD40compact on my right hip,it holds 10rds and I carry two 12rd back-up clips with it. On my left hip I carry a S&W 640-3 .357 Magnum,it holds 5rds and I have two speed strips for it as well.(I also carry a tactical combat knife in my boot as well). Now,am I being “Paranoid”; or am I just being prepared for whatever may be lurking in the shadows? I’d like to hear some opinions on the matter.

-Anonymous

Note from the USCCA Team: That’s what’s great about freedom: You can carry as many, or as few guns as you like.. and as a retired Army Ranger, it sounds like you’ve earned the right to do just that! Carry on- your community is safer because of YOU.

I thought everyone or at least some would be happy to know,I just contacted Springfield Armory today with an Inquiry and was told that the XDM would be released this yr in .45 Cal. but were reluctant to advice which month.

-Anonymous

Greetings, my name is Jamison… I am a retired Army Ranger and I’m writing you from a small mountain town in Oregon called “Rainier”. More then 70% of the folks in my town carry concealed, and because of that fact we have not had a “major crime” committed in almost 12yrs.

We don’t even have police on duty after 8pm. Here in Rainier we have a very strong sense of community, and as armed citizens we feel a responsibility to each other to safeguard our own streets and neighborhoods from those who would cause us harm.

It is a real shame more folks don’t feel the same civic duty and pride elsewhere that we do here, suffice it to say most people these days are only looking out for #1; and it burns me up. I would just like to say: “I’m an armed citizen, and damn proud of it!”, and to all the street-walkin’ scum out there… Stay away from Rainier, because the only time we call on the sheriff is to come and pick-up the bad guys’ body! Thank you,

-Sgt Jamison K.

I applaud your efforts to educate “Americans” about guns. The Liberals have, however, morphed in to what they feel is more acceptable, they feel, ie., they are now “Progressives” in name. It really should be called “evolutionary Marxism” and if they reach their goals, we will have to be the “Militia” Ben Franklin talks about.

-”joel the plumber” Kitty Hawk, NC

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

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!

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

Safe Recommendation? Trigger Locks?

For home protection I have a Glock 21SF sitting on a high shelf (just over head level & I’m 5′10") behind a picture frame in my bedroom. I also have a Rem 870 perched at about the same height inside my closet. Then there’s the Ruger SP 101 on another overhead shelf inside a different closet.

You cannot see any of these guns, but I can put my hands on them in the dark pretty darn quick.
I keep the mags full, but don’t chamber them, except of course for the revolver, which is loaded. The problem is that although I find this plenty safe for keeping arms with my 4-year-old in the house, my wife disagrees. So I’m thinking of other measures.

I could get some trigger locks, which I think are lame because I would have to find a key and unlock it in the dark, adding precious seconds to our defense. I’ve been looking at some of those nightstand/valuables safes that have the finger touch combo lock. I just want to be able to satisfy the safety concerns but also be able to get to my guns quick. Any advice or tales of experience would help.

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

Airline Travel - Flashlights

Hi Everyone,

I’m getting ready for a business trip and decided to carry on all my luggage since it is only overnight. The downside is that I won’t be bringing my handgun and won’t be able to check my knives. However, I do own a Fenix LD10 flashlight that I’m hoping is allowed through airport security.

I have access to an airport that is easy to get in and out of so I can always check with security before boarding and return it to my car if it isn’t allowed. Has anyone had any experience with this?

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

How Do I Start A Preparedness Group?

I am true believer that there will be strength in numbers in a true emergency scenario.

I have been tempted to talk to some of my neighbors (keep in mind I live in the country and have 1 neighbor within a mile and maybe 15 within 5 miles.)

I don’t know how to go about bringing up emergency preparedness or if it is even a good idea. After all I don’t want all my neighbors to realize that I am the only guy around with food.

Your thoughts? How do I attract like minded people? I can prepare all I want but there is no way in an emergency situation that me alone can protect my place.

Video of the Week

Ever wonder about those Hi-Point firearms? Well here’s a Hi-Point .45 & 9mm in action. For less than $200 it’s an option for home and vehicle use. Probably too heavy and blocky to carry though.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kT3Jxz1QG6c

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!

February 20, 1010

North Harris County, Texas

From: The Houston Chronicle

Suspect Killed In Home Invasion Gun Battle

A north Harris County man shot a pair of suspected home invaders on Friday, killing one and wounding the other, during a gun battle outside his house, officials said.

The homeowner was also wounded, authorities said.

“He was shot by one of the suspects,” said Sgt. Craig Clopton with the Harris County Sheriff’s Department. His condition was not available.

Gunfire erupted at 11:30 a.m. at a home in the 1300 block of Spring City after two people forced open the front door, officials said. The homeowner and the suspects both were armed and exchanged gunfire, authorities said.

One attacker, an adult, fell to the ground in the yard. He was later pronounced dead at the scene. The wounded juvenile ran to a nearby home in the 14000 block of Coveney and pounded on the front door.

“He told me that he had gotten shot and to call his mother. I thought he was just crazy,” said Pamela Grant, who cares for an elderly woman who lives there.

Grant said he came to the window and showed her his foot, where he had been apparently struck by gunfire. She could tell that he was bleeding.

“I told him to get away, but he wouldn’t leave,” Grant said.

By that time, deputies had arrived. The youth was taken by ambulance to a hospital. His condition was not available.

Courtney Brooks, who lives nearby, was watching television when the commotion started.

“There was shooting, and my dogs were barking,” Brooks said. “A good five minutes later, that’s when I heard the sirens coming.”

Brooks looked outside and saw a pair of Harris County sheriff’s deputies standing over the juvenile lying in the front yard of his neighbor’s house.

He said the deputies tried to question the juvenile about an accomplice.

Irma Miranda, who has been staying at her brother’s home for the last few months, said the area has recently been plagued with crime.

“It seems quiet, but lately there has been a lot of robberies. It’s scary,””she said.

Miranda said someone recently broke into her brother’s home, and she said she knew of at least two other houses on the same street that have been struck by burglars.

“They just kicked it (the door) in, and they went straight for the TV,” Miranda said.

Sheriff’s officials at the scene could not confirm whether Friday’s home invasion suspects could be linked to other crimes in the area.

USCCA Q&A

Last Week’s Question: ANSWERED.

"We stress the total concealment of our weapon under our clothing. Other than the element of surprise if encountered, is there any legal reason it should/must not be visible? After all the constitution doesn’t say it must be concealed."

Mikey G:

I’m sorry, but what is the big deal about carrying your weapon for all to see? Unless you are the current Mr. America, or a trained professional in retaining your firearm in a physical confrontation, why risk having your firearm taken control of by a BG. Let’s be totally honest with ourselves, many of them are younger and stronger. I’m a “Boomer” and although aging gracefully, I’m not the strapping young man of thirty or forty or fifty that I used to be. I’m not pointing fingers, but some of the guys I see at the ranges practicing their marksmanship skills aren’t exactly just out of basic training. Carry concealed, that way the BG will always be guessing about who is and who isn’t.

Anonymous:

Depends on the jurisdiction you are in. Some locals will allow open carry some will not. You don’t need every withering liberal calling 911 at the sight of your handgun. You don’t need the hassle from law enforcement throwing you in the back of a squad car and taking your gun away so they can verify the validity of your permit. You don’t need an attacker blind siding you and drawing your gun from your holster before you can react. Keep it concealed all the time.

Paul from Austin:

To the question if it should be concealed. Then answer is, the laws in your state will dictate if your handgun can be openly carried. Even if you are able to openly carry, I would seriously think about, do I really want a potential robber to know if I have a gun and take up a better position to attack, or do I want the element of surprise. I live here in TX and if the law passed where I could carry openly, I would still carry concealed, because I want the element of surprise on a would be robber, murderer, or rapist. The bad wolf deserves no less.

Dana Fultz:

It is not a matter of legality. It is a matter of public ignorance. Ohio is an open carry state. Legally, you can walk down the street with pistol/revolver on your side. The problem is that most people are not aware that this is legal. If you walk your dog through town, or the burbs, with a gun in open view, some fool will call the police. The police will probably shoot your dog, tackle you and arrest you for inciting riot, disturbing the peace, or some other BS law. Eventually, you will be found innocent, but you may have to spend a lot of money for an attorney, defending your rights. Why put yourself through the hassle? If you think you live in a free country, then you better think again.

David H:

“Legal” may be defined differently depending on where you are. In Ohio, open carry is legal without a permit/license, but does that make it right? There is a classic audio file on the Web of an exchange between a young Ohioan openly carrying (legally) who was accosted by two police officers who were unaware of the law. Besides that hassle, open carry makes you a target - for liberals who despise your right to carry, for police officers who may mistake you for a bad guy, as well as the bad guys who will take you out first so they can “safely” commit their crimes. Carry concealed at all times - no printing, no flashing, no mention of it - never show your weapon unless you intend to use it.

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

# How is the information about a gun’s purchase, i.e., serial number, name of buyer, etc. stored and used? Who has access to this information and does this vary by state? My concern is liability if I must use a gun that I did not personally purchase. Thank you.

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!