What Do You Think -- Concealed Carry On College Campuses?

     With yet another incident of violence with a gun -- this time in Colorado at a Planned Parenthood facility -- the topic of concealed carry on college campuses came up around our Thanksgiving dinner table.  Our niece, who attends a state university here in Texas, is now allowed to carry concealed in classrooms, and is interested in getting her concealed license.  But she still needs training before we feel she would be competent enough to exercise that right.
     My cousin's son, who is going to college here in Texas as an out-of-state student on a football scholarship is being trained in how to properly and safely handle firearms by my husband, but has to navigate not only his school's rules on concealed carry, but determine if a Texas ID would be enough to qualify for the concealed license.

     I imagine that there were many conversations like this across the country this holiday, as other states such as Colorado, Idaho, Kansas, Mississippi, Oregon, Utah and Wisconsin are among the growing number of states that widely permit concealed carry weapons on their campuses.  According to the National Conference of State Legislatures, there are another 23 states who allow colleges and universities to decide for themselves whether to allow guns on campus.
     For me, it is a no-brainer --- with stipulations.  I strongly disagree with the current line of reasoning employed on most college campuses (and public schools, in general).  They have policies that call for a school lockdown; for students to remain in place, behind closed doors and away from windows, and to wait for someone to come rescue them.  So, how did that work for those students at Virginia Tech, Sandy Hook Elementary, or Umpqua Community College in Oregon?  The truth of the matter is this, those are the worst of the tragic school shootings in our history, but they are by no means the only instances.
     The earliest known United States shooting to happen on school property was the Pontiac's Rebellion school massacre on July 26, 1764, where three men entered the schoolhouse near present-day Greencastle, Pennsylvania, shot and killed schoolmaster Enoch Brown, and killed ten children (reports vary). Only one child survived.  And you can go to Wikipedia and get a list of school shootings dating back to 1840.  My point is this:  Any shooting at a school is tragic, but when you consider sending a young adult, whom you love, off to college in today's social climate, it is imperative that you give them the best chance of survival should, God forbid, a shooting occur on their campus.
     I'm sorry, but telling them to close the door to their classroom, hide behind a desk, and wait to be rescued is making them sitting ducks.  But, I also strongly believe that professional training should be a required condition for receiving a concealed carry permit on campus.  A firearm in the hands of an inexperienced student is not what I would want, should an active shooter situation arise on campus.  But all I have to do is remember the 2004 Beslan school siege in Russia to know that firearms in the hands of trained students would be an effective deterrent to such a tragedy.  In case, you've forgotten that devastating event, a group of armed Islamic terrorists stormed a school and captured over 1,100 people as hostages (including 777 children).  The three-day siege ended with the death of at least 385 people.
     I have read numerous accounts of that horrendous ordeal and what took place through those three days of hell.  And I will also tell you that I have heard that this scenario is among the worst fears of our special operations military personnel.  But what if some of those teachers in Russia had been properly trained to protect and defend those students?  Think there might have been a different outcome?  And do you really think that this scenario could never happen here on our native soil?  Wouldn't you want your child to have the ability to defend him or herself and stop such a tragedy from happening?
     I know this is a highly emotional and controversial subject.  But I also think students are more aware than ever that they are vulnerable and potential targets.  For those unfamiliar with the responsible handling of firearms, fear of the unknown is often a concern.  If students are allowed to carry, and a threat takes place, will you know the good guys versus the bad guys?  And I've heard the argument, "We should just install metal detectors or establish 'safe zones' for those who don't want to participate and where firearms would not be allowed."  So, where's the first place you would head if you were an active shooter?
     Obviously, everyone needs to come to terms with how they feel about this subject.  And you need to know the laws and restrictions of your state and college campus... because they do vary.  But I strongly believe that it is a discussion we need to have, both across our nation, and in our homes.  The most precious commodity we have is our children, and in the days in which we live, it is apparent that we need to give them every opportunity to thrive and survive.  I, for one, want to equip my loved ones with the ability and training (and lots of prayer) to become all that God intends for them to be.

Luke 11:21    "When a strong man, fully armed, guards his own palace, his goods are safe;"


   

Securing My Personal Safety

     The title of today's blog post comes from the emergency warning issued by the U.S. consulate in Sydney, Australia, after an Islamist terrorist took hostages in a Sydney cafe yesterday.  American citizens were urged to "maintain a high level of vigilance and take appropriate steps to enhance [their] personal security".  I would like to suggest that it is a good idea for ALL Americans, EVERYWHERE, to follow that directive ALL THE TIME.  And since the Supreme Court of the United States has decided that our Second Amendment rights are vested in Individuals, I exercised that right this past weekend, and took definitive steps to secure my personal safety.
     It has been awhile since I've written anything about my decision over the last few years to add firearms training to my set of skills.  I've especially encouraged women to think about stepping outside their comfort zone and being responsible for learning how to defend themselves.

     It has not been easy for me.  Besides being among a minority of women in the classes, I am easily one of the oldest students on the range, and I'm not always efficient in the physical requirements of the courses.  But that is no reason to hinder myself from learning skills that could some day save my life.  In the final analysis, I am there for myself, and no one else.  Age, previous experience, or apprehension should not prohibit you from learning these skills.  Your life, that of a loved one, or an innocent person could someday rely on your ability to master a firearm.  If you still think that someone is coming to rescue you, or that nothing harmful will ever happen to you -- that's probably what those good folks in that coffee shop in Sydney thought yesterday morning, too.
     That is the reason why I signed up for my first Defensive Carbine class.  Now, you might think that women have no place in a Carbine class; nor could they possibly be as proficient with an automatic rifle as a man.  But, I'm here to tell you that me and my three women teammates held our own with the other 9 men in the class.  We covered the gamut in platforms -- from AK to AR to Sig 522, and we handled them well.  We matched the men when it came to learning basic skills, such as trigger reset, clearing malfunctions, tactical and combat reloads.  And we definitely kept pace when it came to shooting on the move and the various reactive drills and relays.  We learned to be effective shooters while reacting to a threat, as well as how to work under pressure as part of a team.  At the end of the two-day course, we could hold our heads high when it came to speed, stamina, and accuracy; and we can now be more confident that we can increase our chances of winning a gunfight, should we ever find ourselves in that situation.

     So, I'm sure there are still those who question why women should not simply be satisfied with handgun training.  I'll give you several recent reasons ... Moore, Oklahoma; New York City; Sydney, Australia; and Lower Salford, Pennsylvania  -- all within the last three months; and the latter two in the last 24 hours!  In case, you haven't noticed, the world is not as safe as it used to be.  And the threats come in many different forms ... beheadings, hatchets, "lone wolf" attacks, and random rampages.  The threats are domestic, as well as international.  ISIS is encouraging stateside attacks ... and no one can predict when or where they will occur.
     Yes, my handgun training is beneficial and highly important, but living within a couple hundred miles of the Texas/Mexico border, I can tell you that a handgun may not be enough to stop the potential threats we face.  More often than not, the unknown enemies will use carbines in their attacks; and in that instance, my pistol is not going to be as effective.  As several of our excellent trainers have taught us, "Your pistol is used to fight your way to your carbine."  In order to rise to that occasion and be skilled in defending myself, it only makes sense to learn this weapons platform as well; and learn it to the best of my ability.
     I am very lucky in that I am married to a man that is not only willing to teach me and train me, but he encourages me to know how to defend myself.  I don't want to sound like "Chicken Little", but the instability of the world, and the rise of Evil, demands that we all take the notion of "securing our personal safety" in a very serious manner -- men and women, alike!  Oftentimes law enforcement will only be reactive, and they arrive on the scene after the damage has been done.  It should be obvious that we cannot rely on someone else to come to the rescue; we must prepare and train in order to be proactive when it comes to our personal defense and safety.
     I am also extremely fortunate to have easy access to one of the best firearms training groups in the nation.  They are especially responsive to women wanting to learn defensive firearms training, and they help us develop the necessary mindset to learn these important skills.  It is important to note that these skills are not intuitive; one must train until they become second nature -- and then train some more.
     Unlike the women at the founding of our nation, or those that survived Indian raids on the frontier, Society has taught us that we should lay down and wait for someone to save us; instead, we must learn to save ourselves.  And me and my Sisters-in-Arms have just taken another important step down that road, just as the women throughout our history have done.  Thank God for self-reliant women and the Second Amendment!

Proverbs 31:25    "Strength and dignity are her clothing, and she laughs at the time to come."


   
   

Travis Haley: Pushing New Boundaries

     If you've been a reader of my blog since the beginning, then you will know that I have a wide variety of interests.  You will also know that I'm a proud member of "Gun Culture 2.0."  This terminology was coined by Michael Bane, The Outdoor Channel's well-known "adventure-seeker" and gun expert.  Bane wanted to separate those who used firearms through the traditional methods of hunting, the military, or law enforcement (Gun Culture 1.0) from those individuals who came to firearms through the Concealed Carry movement, the growing interest in Self-Defense, or the various shooting sports.
     Additionally, women have become the fastest growing segment of Gun Culture 2.0.  Since I own a CC license, and decided that I wanted to know how to competently and safely protect myself with a handgun, I qualify for membership in this exclusive group.  And it has been my privilege to have received some of the finest training in the country.

     I happen to be blessed to have access to some great instructors who have, themselves, trained with the best.  Who better to prepare you to defend yourself in a gunfight, than someone who experienced gunfighting up-close-and-personal as a member of our superb United States military?  I also think it is important to give credit to those ex-military who are willing to share their time, knowledge, and expertise.  And there is none better than Travis Haley.  So when he comes to town, I'm reminded of just how much my husband and I owe this man.
      If you want to know his credentials, they are readily available on the website of Haley Strategic Partners:  "Travis Haley is a veteran Force Reconnaissance Marine with 15 years of dedicated real world experience including: combat tours in Middle East, Africa and Central Asia."  If you read between the lines, it reveals how tough and aggressive he had to be during all those years of "real world experience."  In other words, he learned how to survive by being bold, working in close coordination with his unit, and a master of many weapon systems.
     And when it comes to training responsibly armed citizens, he's been able to transfer his mastery of dynamic situations to us.  As a relatively new shooter, my level of competence exploded after I started training with Travis.  I have been fortunate enough that he chooses to include our outstanding local range on his yearly schedule, and I've benefitted from several of his pistol classes.
     I'm pretty sure I'm an anomaly, when it comes to his average student.  I'm new to the world of firearms; new to training (I began in 2011); always one of just a few women in his class, and sometimes the oldest.  But, to Travis, I'm the same as the LEO, the young military veteran, or my competitive, experienced husband; he doesn't cut me any slack.  He's encouraged me to never accept mediocrity, to push past my failure points, and to continually evolve, in order to become a better shooter and a better person.
     This time, he came to our little corner of Texas to instruct Carbine classes.  Since I am new to the AK platform, and progressing through my local range's carbine courses, I am not qualified for Travis's pairing of a class on Carbine weapons manipulation in and around vehicles (both in daylight and darkness), and a Carbine Team Tactics class that involved coordinating movement, negotiating obstacles, communication, and shooting with others.  However, my husband, Peace-Loving Warrior (PLW - that is really what his given name means!) has been waiting for the Team Tactics course all year!
      As the next level of his training, he was anxious to learn from Travis how the civilian population could responsibly train to defend themselves as part of a group.  As always, he was not disappointed.  The course is described as "high risk" and "physically demanding", just the kind of challenge that PLW and his fellow students were looking for.  It was intense; at times, rigorous and physically punishing.  But, as expected, it met the highest of standards that PLW knows is the hallmark of any Travis Haley class.

       Let him tell you in his own words:  "The way Travis teaches is so dynamic.  You can take the same course three different times, and because his system is always advancing and always fluid, Travis is forever searching for the hard answers.  He methodically breaks them down into small achievable, baby steps.  These series of steps, when applied in order, create a well-rounded and capable shooter who can now use this information to self-critique and practice their gun skills and gun manipulations.  He just creates a thinking environment that produces a very high level shooting experience."
     As I observed the class one afternoon, it struck me how much it must take for Travis to organize and systematize training for civilians who are responsible gun owners.  We don't have the experience he has, nor the hours of weapons handling.  He can't just show up at our range and say, "Follow the Leader" or "Watch, and Do What I Do."  He has to break it down; think like a civilian would; reconstruct each step that he does, automatically and mechanically; and then try to instruct 15-20 people (all with different learning styles and skill levels), so they can grasp it and apply it.
     But that is what makes him such a sought-after instructor.  I watched as he drilled the students on fundamentals -- over and over, building their muscle memory.  When they progressed to shooting from behind barriers as a 2-man team; or in the open field as 2-man, 4-man, and even 6-man teams, Travis drilled them repetitively.  You could see the metamorphosis; they began to gel, take shape, and came together, working as an efficient team.  Fatigue was not an option.  Problems with weapon manipulation or physical limitations were no excuse.  When you come to train with Travis Haley, he expects full-on commitment, and you expect it from yourself.  (And even though I wasn't participating in the class, it didn't mean I still wasn't learning from him.  I could listen to him share his experiences, or analyze a particular chain of events; and then watch him demonstrate how he would react in different scenarios ... there is always opportunity to gain knowledge; it's what you do with it that counts.)
     Although there is only so much that can be accomplished in a 3-day course, I can tell you that PLW was grateful that Travis is willing to offer this high level of training to people who choose to be armed responsibly.  And, from my perspective, its nice to see the collaboration and synergy between the military and civilians.  There is much need, in today's national climate, for interaction, cooperation and mutual respect between these two groups.
     And that's just one of the reasons that I'm glad our paths have crossed Travis Haley's.  He believes in what he's doing, and he really cares about helping you find your own path.  He believes in his students; and he's about growing you as a shooter, a person, and a contributor to the world.  He believes in pushing the boundaries, overcoming adversity, and invites you to create new territories in your own life experience.  For Travis, it's not just about being the best you can be at handling your weapons system; it's about being the best you can be at your life.  One way to become the best "you" is to experience Travis Haley ... he's a force to be reckoned with, and a life-changer.  Be bold, be challenged, and sign up for a class.  But be prepared to be transformed; you will never be the same.

Romans 12:2     "Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect."
  

Disruptive Environments: My 3 Days With Travis Haley & Why Failure Is A Good Thing

     I want to begin this post by saying that I have been so fortunate to have some of the best firearms training in the country.  Arrowhead Firearms Training in Victoria, TX has given me a strong platform from which to propel me from fundamentals to finding my own shooting style.  Because of their dedication to beginners and women shooters, I felt I was ready to tackle the next rung on the ladder... shooting in disruptive environments.  
     That's where Travis Haley comes in.  Travis definitely knows what disruptive environments are.  He is a veteran Force Reconnaissance Marine who spent 15 years experiencing every kind of chaotic situation you can imagine.  As a trainer, a Disruptive Environments class with him is exactly what it sounds like ... he drastically alters the structure, surroundings and conditions during a particular shooting scenario; all with the intention of emphasizing your failure points.  Sounds like fun and good for the ego, right?  But, believe it or not, it is exactly what you need to become a better shooter and to effectively defend yourself in any situation.  Let me explain...
     Along with my husband, I have taken fundamental handgun classes with Travis in the past, and his unique ability to apply science, biomechanics, and logic to the basics of handgun manipulation and shooting have helped me to progress in my three short years of shooting.  Part of the reason is that he pushes you to your failure points; he teaches you to self-diagnose and self-correct so that you can continue to train on your own.  Another reason that his classes excel above all others is that you get to know yourself better, both as a shooter and a person.  It's hard to explain, but Travis makes you want to surpass your limitations, whatever they may be --- and to do it for you, not to please him.
     So let's get down to the specifics of this class.  Disruptive Environments:Handgun/Vehicle/Darkness was three days of using critical thinking skills, along with honing weapons manipulation skills and applying them to not only changing positions while shooting; but shooting inside and outside of a car, both during the day, low-light situations and at night; and with and without flashlights.  Let's just say that very few people in the class had trained with all these goals in mind.  Under these circumstances, it wasn't hard to recognize your failure points... lots of failure points.  Some of them involved equipment.  We quickly learned which flashlights were user-friendly in a tactical situation.  Failure points also came in terms of abilities to search, identify, adapt and move when confronted with a threat.

     This class helps you move beyond static shooting and assumes you know how to effectively manage your firearm.  Your brain is required to work in a completely different manner.  How are you going to react with flashing lights in your peripheral vision?  How will you respond when people are shouting and shots are being fired all around you?  It is no longer a matter of focusing only on your pistol and proper manipulation, but how to continue to do that while your brain is distracted with secondary stimuli.  I quickly realized that I will have to train to use more of my brain to stay tuned in to my surroundings and the changing environment.
     Our class was filled with a wide variety of shooters.  There were federal agents who were trainers themselves; Grand Master match shooters, Special Operations soldiers, law enforcement officers, and civilians.  No matter what your level of expertise, or your number of years of shooting, we all found our failure points.  It was interesting to see that even those who shoot for a living have something to learn.  And if you can't let go of your pride, then learning from those failure points will be harder to accomplish.
     Everyone is there to reach a failure point and to advance their skills.  As my husband, whose name literally means Peace-Loving Warrior, often reminds me, "It's better to be the little fish, surrounded by the big fish.  You learn more that way."

     One thing I want to make clear: I don't want to discourage anyone from taking this class. Even if you are new to shooting, like me, you will gain so much from being willing to be in an uncomfortable environment in order to learn.  Don't be intimidated by the calibre of shooters around you.
     And my brain is so full of all that I learned.  Personally, this class was physically difficult for me.  I was the oldest in the class and the one with the least experience... but no excuses; my failure points were epic and evident.  But I signed up for the class, knowing it would be challenging, and wanting to push myself.  If I was going to be able to effectively defend myself in any situation, I had to put myself out there and fail.  And I did.  But I also knew that Travis Haley is the best at helping me find those failure points and showing me how to overcome them.  And he did.
     But I can't lie; the first morning after the class, when I pulled my exhausted body and mind from the shadows of sleep, I spent about an hour crying.  I was embarrassed over some of the mistakes I had made, and disappointed in my performance.  I knew I would have to work out some problems; it just seemed like there were so many.  As I sat in silence, collecting my thoughts, my husband asked, "What are you thinking?"  I looked at him, and through swollen eyes, I said, "I want to start preparing right now for next year's class, and take Disruptive Environments: Handgun/Vehicle/Darkness again."
     And that, my friends, is why I continue to train with Travis Haley.  He challenges you to inspire yourself.  He helps you find your failure points so you can become a better you.  I have bought my Bosu ball to begin perfecting my balance and conditioning, and I have an appointment tomorrow to begin rehabbing my knees to gain the flexibility and strength I need to run, drop to a knee and move quickly to a new position.
     I may no longer be "a spring chicken", as Travis so delicately reminded me, but that doesn't mean I won't come back next year stronger, more determined, and with increased effectiveness.  I know what I have to work on physically and in my training, and I will spend the next year doing what I have to do to fix my failure points ... and ready to have him show me new ones.  Thank you, Travis!

Philippians 3:13    "Brothers, I do not consider that I have made it my own. But one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead..."

Recommended Product: Liquid Eyes

     I don't make it a habit to endorse a product unless I've tried it and think it is something you should know about.  I feel so strongly about this product that I'm happy to give it a mention.  The maker and owner of Liquid Eyes is a new friend of mine, and these shooting glasses are definitely the best I've ever owned.

They are worth this recommendation because the reality of good eye protection is that you get only one chance.  If you shoot without eye pro or ear pro, you are tempting fate.  It's the dust, burning powder, flying brass, and bullet splash from shooting on steel that all pose a threat to your eyes.
     Liquid Eyes meets the highest standard which is designated as an ANSI Z87.1 standard.  What does this designation mean?  It is essentially a safety standard established by the private non-profit American National Standards Institute (ANSI), which ensures that a specific product meets a safety standard and is certified.  This allows you to know the safety standard for shooting or combat use has been met.
     The foundation of this test is that a specific lens can pass a "high mass" and "high velocity" test.  I won't go into all the technical jargon associated with this test, but suffice it to say, that Liquid Eyes meets this exacting standard.
     I just spent three days and 900 rounds behind a pair of Liquid Eyes called T-Flex and I want to sing the praises of these glasses!  The frames are available as a one-piece design (called Gaskets), or in the traditional folding design called T-Flex, which I wouldn't exactly call "traditional".  In fact, Liquid Eyes has jumped outside the box with their design and the one-piece, snap-in hard rubber hinges on the T-Flex model.  But don't let this fool you.  The T-Flex design is tough and will hold up to some serious activity.  They are excellent for tactical or combat use, motorcycling, skydiving and biking.
     The T-Flex design has eliminated the inherent weakness of screws and rivets, which is perfect for PLW.  He has shot competitively for years, and has marked significant time behind the likes of Oakley, Gargoyles, De-Cot Hy-Wyds, Smiths and Wiley X.  He is like a wrecking ball when it comes to fine shooting eyewear; they all eventually go to die in the random holsters and gear boxes in his man cave.
     The reason he really likes the Liquid Eyes, is because he prefers active sunwear that can serve as a shooting shield and multi-function as his sunglasses.  Dedicating eyewear as "shooting only" has never fit his profile; but others may prefer to commit Liquid Eyes as part of their range gear.
     Liquid's interchangeability is a plus for hard-end users like PLW.  If he trashes a lens, or wears out a hinge or nose piece, we can replace a component instead of replacing the entire unit.  Now, that suits me just fine!  The Anodized Aluminum frames are tough and will take a pounding, but make sure if these glasses are for tactical use, they are the UV models, which meet the ANSI safety standard.  Some of the polarized lenses aren't ANSI-rated.

Travis Haley rockin' his Gaskets.

     Another important feature of Liquid Eyes is the wrap-around design.  All light should be blocked by the wrap design.  If its blocking and protecting your eyes from light, then it is blocking and protecting them from flying foreign materials, like bullet jackets that come careening off steel.
     We both selected Tanzonite lenses because of the harsh Texas sun.  But lens selection runs the gamut and Liquid Eyes has something for everyone.  They can even meet your prescription requirements.  The truth is you get what you pay for, and these glasses are a double investment; they're a quality product and when you ask yourself, "What are my eyes worth"? then you know they are a sound product.
     All eye pro isn't the same --- so take a hard look at what Liquid Eyes offers.  They will give you years of service, unless you are like PLW and lose them in bulk quantities.  Maybe I should talk to Liquid Eyes about an internal GPS receiver?  Take a moment and check them out at www.liquidpolarized.com.

Psalm 101:3    "I will not set before my eyes anything that is worthless." 

Building Thinkers Before Shooters

     Several months ago, I wrote a post about my experiences in taking a Travis Haley gun class.  It was here that I was first introduced to the science behind shooting.  That's right.  Travis Haley isn't satisfied with teaching his students the fundamentals of shooting.  He's on a mission to discover the Why's of shooting excellence; the interaction between thoughts and performance.  Because once you figure that out and truly understand it, you've got the edge.  And Travis is all about gaining the edge.
     So, when I signed up for his D5 Reactive Shooting Science class, I was curious as to how he would advance us beyond the incredible improvements I saw in my shooting from the previous class.  So along with PLW (my husband's full name actually means "Peace-Loving Warrior, for those new to my blog) and 24 of my new best friends, we set out on our next journey with the Master... learning the principles behind Biomechanical shooting and then putting them into practice.

     I could write volumes on the information we gained ... Controlling motion, force, momentum, levers and balance; Isometric tension; the Tachypsychia Effect; Target accommodation;  the 90/10 theory of trigger control; the front and back end problems that interfere with our accuracy, including the pre-ignition push, snatching, improper reset, lack of follow through, and double pump, just to name a few .... and all designed to make us better shooters.
     But when you take a class with Travis, you're signing up for so much more than a training class.  I knew what I expected out of the class, but I had no idea how life-changing three days with this man could be.  I believe that life is a series of pivot points, where our decisions lead us to specific events that move us forward on our path through life.  This class was such a pivot point for me, and I think all my classmates would agree.
     First of all, this class is formatted differently than any class I've ever experienced to date.  It is a big picture, big idea thinkers class.  How many other training classes have you taken that discuss the Law of Overcoming Failure, the Law of Just a Little, or the Law of Everything? -- or as he calls them, "Travis's Cheesy Laws".  Or what other firearms trainers recommend books like The Power of Habit or extol the Kolbe A™ Index/Instinct Test, which measures what you WILL or WON'T do?  You see, for Travis, it is about the deliberate practice of analyzing processes to achieve your goal.
     Personally, he was able to isolate and see the imbalance in my trigger pull by observing the tension in the muscles of my hand.  He talked me through the pull and helped me to visualize what I was doing, and then suggested, "Feel that?  Remember how that feels in your mind every time you pull the trigger."  It is that kind of attention to detail, along with the quest for solutions to problems that will lead to success.   And that pertains to not only your gun handling, but your life.
     This class has been built on one man's quest to try and obtain a personal level of perfection, based on a one-word question ... WHY?  It is Travis's unique ability to press for the "why" behind every aspect of his life that has been the impetus for propelling him to the top of whatever he chooses to accomplish.
     Having served as a Force Recon Marine, Travis was a member of a select group of warriors who possessed the highest of standards and a broad skill set.  This has, no doubt, been the foundation of Travis's training and what attracts shooters who want to train with him.  His military experience and knowledge is a huge asset.
     You might think that his obviously effective military skills could provide us all the answers to our performance issues.  But by asking "why" our bodies react the way they do, Travis has looked to a cadre of other disciplines for the solutions to our problems; and that includes yoga, biomechanics , the nature of horses, and the lifespan and characteristics of a dragonfly.  The "artist's curse" of never achieving the perfect painting, along with brain mapping, psychology and many other fields of study all come together to create a better shooter and a better person.
     I realized that all the previous training I have received was based on specific systems of shooting (or as Travis refers to them, "recipes").  The specificity of those systems is inherently limiting, and by accepting these fixed and absolute systems, I am accepting their limitations and I stop growing as a shooter.  Systems, by their very nature, put you in a box--- and we all know that you can't grow inside of a box.

     The bottom line is this:  Travis Haley is changing lives, creating thinkers, and smashing boxes.  In fact, I see the future of training heading in Travis's direction, and perceive the slow death of other "system"-based gun classes (some of which I have personally trained under).  They haven't had a format change in 10 years!  And if they do make a change, it's just a superficial change to the system, like changing the color of the inside of the box to red.  With Travis, I've backed the truck over the box.
     He has shown me how to problem-solve on my own, and I now understand the "why" of fundamentals.  I can use my brain (first) in a dynamic situation, and then use the gun, if I have to, as an effective tool.  It is apparent to me that Travis Haley is playing 50 moves ahead of these system-based trainers.  Their inability to change will be the death of their programs.  Eventually, the shooters who are in search for perfection, rather than a system of shooting, and are willing to learn outside the box, will find his doorway.  And when they do, they will know they're home.
     As with any Travis Haley class, you will not only become a better shooter, the class makes you a better mom, a better CEO, a better spouse, a better thinker, a better YOU.  Alongside Travis, you can step into shooting and thinking, and improve other aspects of your life, as well.  PLW is incorporating aspects of Travis's training into his painting, and the class will undoubtedly have an impact on my writing.
     In the final analysis, Travis Haley's military life and career has let him see behind the curtain.  He is trying to prepare his class members for a tough and trying world; one that is descending upon us rapidly. He has seen the beast that we all know we will have to face.  Our world is changing and Travis is trying to teach us how to survive in that world, by first using the organic computer God has given all of us.  If you simply want to be a good shooter, then by all means, settle for a system of shooting that will meet those needs.  But if you want to be schooled in how to deliberately analyze the processes of your shooting in a never-ending pursuit of perfection, and encounter your own pivot point while experiencing a life-changing adventure, then hitch your wagon to Travis's star.  He'll take you places you've never been.

Ecclesiastes 7:25    "I applied my heart to know, to search and seek out wisdom and the reason of things, to know the wickedness of folly, even of foolishness and madness."
    

Be Aware Of Your Past

     Have you ever done something stupid in your past?  Especially those teen and college years?  Think that it can't come back to haunt you 40 years later and cause you to lose your Second Amendment rights?  Well, that's Ron Kelly's story.
     Kelly is a retired Army veteran, having given 20 years of service to his country.  Yet, when he tried to buy a .22-cal rifle at a Wal-Mart in Tomball, Texas, the computerized background check flagged him for a 42-year-old misdemeanor charge involving marijuana.  The violation occurred while he was in high school, and resulted in a night spent in jail, and one year's probation.  Little did he know, that over 40 years later, the incident would strip him of his Second Amendment rights.

     The irony of the situation, is that Kelly had a long career of firing tanks, machine guns and an array of other weapons in the Army.  Now he is being denied the right that he served to defend.
     According to the FBI, which runs the background checks known as the National Instant Criminal Background Check System, the law states that a person can be prevented from owning a gun if they are convicted of a misdemeanor in which they could spend more than two years behind bars.  The fact that Kelly was sentenced probation back in 1971, doesn't matter.... He could have received a sentence of two years or more.
     I want to make it perfectly clear that I do not endorse drug use, or excuse him for breaking the law.  This is not about letting anyone have a gun who wants one.  I just find it ironic that the government had no problem with training him to use firearms during his military service; nor did they apparently think his "criminal" background was cause to exempt him from exposure to firearms.  Granted, they may not have been aware of his misdemeanor charge, but shouldn't 20 years of exemplary service in the military count for something? And isn't it possible that if he goes to court and gets this old record expunged, that his rights could be restored?
     Kelly wanted the gun to keep around the house for self-protection, and considering that he fired perhaps 100,000 rounds of government ammo over his 20 years of service, it's a pretty safe bet that he knows how to handle the weapon.
     As for checking his record back in North Carolina, where he was born and raised, arrested and later joined the service – his conviction is so old that officials there can’t readily find the record.  And as the reporter for the Houston Chronicle, who covered his story asks, "If they can’t find the conviction, how did the FBI?"
     Does anyone else besides me find this incident preposterous?  And for me, it raises many more questions ... Is he being singled out because he is a military veteran?  Is he being profiled?  A misdemeanor charge does not necessarily exclude you from jury service, yet your Second Amendment right can be violated?  Surely, he can't be the only citizen with decades old misdemeanor charges applying for gun ownership.  Was his application just the luck of the draw?
     I find it hard to believe that this decision will stand.  Perhaps Mr. Kelly's Congressman can go to bat for him, or the Federal Government will take a new look at this application, consider it on an individual basis, and find a more reasonable solution.  This man has served his country well and apparently been a model citizen.  He went about the purchase of a firearm in a legal manner and is now being punished for what serves as a minor infraction in today's world.  Apparently, "tolerance" is today's mantra, and applies to everything but the Second Amendment.

Matthew 6:12     "And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors."

Undaunted and Determined

     Let me tell you about my new friend, Tina.  We met at a firearms training class, in which I was serving as an extra pair of eyes for the instructor.  "Watch for fingers on triggers, and instances of 'flagging' ".  PLW and I had agreed to offer our help that day because the instructors who had trained us were expecting an extremely large class of first-time shooters, and could use the extra support.
     It was quickly established that about nine attendees were beyond Beginner Status; they actually had held a pistol and fired one before, so this group was separated from the inexperienced, and that's where I found myself.  PLW would be working with the larger Newbie Class.
     As chance would have it (more on that later), I wasn't real comfortable as to how much to insert myself into the class, so I positioned myself behind this thirty-something woman and a gentleman on one end of the class.  I could easily keep tabs on the two of them.  I introduced myself and was instantly drawn to Tina's gentle spirit and smile.  But it didn't take long to figure out that it would take all my attention to see her through this class.
     To begin with, she had stacked the deck against herself.  As so often happens, women will show up at these classes with a pistol that their husband, father or boyfriend shoved into their hands as they walked out the door.  Tina showed up with a Smith & Wesson early model semi-auto (in 9mm) with a safety and de-cocker.  I think some male co-worker loaned it to her.  On top of that warning sign, she had no real experience beyond firing her ex-husband's deer rifle.  I'm not exactly sure how she ended up in the Level 1 Class, because she rightfully belonged in the Beginner's.  Her lack of experience with the gun was readily apparent, and all the extra steps she had to take to fire her pistol gave her a significant handicap.

     Plus all her gear was wrong.  She didn't have a proper rigger belt for her holster, only one magazine, and no mag holder.  She also had the gel earplugs which were attached to a cord that hung around her neck.  She had to pull them out to hear the instructor, and then re-insert them to shoot.  So she was always seconds behind everyone else, and missed the first sentence of commands every time.  Needless to say the morning was very frustrating for her.  Besides trying to learn proper stance, grip and line of sight, she had to deal with applying the safety each time and de-cocking the gun before reinserting it into her holster.  But she never complained.  I caught the subtle look from the instructor ..... "Stay with her.  She needs extra help."
     I was impressed with her marksmanship, but could tell that she wasn't retaining any of the procedures.  For instance, it's a little hard to practice tactical reloads, or Type 1 stoppages when you only have one magazine and no mag holder.  As we took a break for lunch, I could tell that she felt lost.  At that time, one of the guys in the class offered her an extra Glock 19, a holster and mag holder, if she would like to try it.  She looked at me, and I said, "This afternoon will be much more beneficial if you use this set-up.  Try it and see how you like it."
     I also took the opportunity to ask some questions.  "Do you mind telling me why you wanted to take this class?"  Another woman had boldly stated that she wasn't interested in doing any tactical training and probably wouldn't pursue the next level of instruction.  I wanted to see what Tina's motives were.
     "I am a single mom, and I spend a lot of time on the road with my girls and I want to be able to protect us."  She said it with such emotion, that I found myself blurting out, "Umm, if you think you would be interested, PLW and I would be willing to work with you privately and spend a Saturday or two getting you up to par so that you could take some further classes ..... that's if you want to."  I saw the biggest sigh of relief and then the smile.  "Would you really?"  And while I was still finishing my PB&J sandwich, she had run to her car and written her email address on the back of a Walmart receipt. I guess that would be a "Yes", I thought.  "Hope PLW doesn't mind that I volunteered us."
     Well, the rest of the afternoon was as if she had a renewed purpose.  The Glock 19 solved all the issues she had with the Smith & Wesson, and we could concentrate on her stance, draw and grip; all the foundational aspects of her gun-handling.  At the end of the class, our small group rejoined the larger Beginner class and I introduced her to PLW.  I promised to email her when we had a free weekend and wondered if she was really serious, or if there would be a series of excuses.

     It was a few weeks later when I emailed Tina and I could almost feel that she had been sitting at her computer waiting for my invitation.  She came the next Saturday and we were able to equip her with the proper gun to train with, and all the correct gear.  She had progressed to a pair of inexpensive electronic ear muffs, so I knew she was serious about getting on the right track.  And lo and behold, she was a natural!  She wanted to learn, took instruction well, and fell in love with the training.  She couldn't wait to purchase her own firearm.  But like so many, she was late to the party and the availability of Glocks was scarce.  She also had the added burden of being a single mom, so there wasn't a lot of extra money for such purchases.  We outlined what all she would need to purchase, and she proudly exclaimed, "I know how I'm going to spend my tax return!"
      She has made good on her intentions.  She has managed to get her firearm, gear and even signed up and passed her Concealed Handgun class.  She is currently signed up for a Handgun Level 1 class, with plans to proceed to Level 2.  To say that she feels empowered would not be worthy of her state of mind.  She is stronger in her outlook; she possesses more confidence; and feels in control of her life.  She knows the seriousness of firearms ownership and the responsibility of having a gun in her home with young daughters.  She has enabled herself to protect her family and is free of debilitating fear.  She knows that she must never take her skills for granted and must keep practicing and training.  I am extremely proud of her!
     But above all else, her story is one that shows what a woman who will take control of her own self-defense and protection can accomplish.  She showed up at a class, totally unprepared and unskilled.  Yet, she stuck it out; she didn't let the frustrations discourage her.  She was willing to take advantage of help when it was offered; and then set a goal for herself and is reaching for higher levels of competence.
     And as for our "chance" encounter .... I have no doubt that God's hand is in the mix somehow.  We let her know that we believe it was no accident that our paths crossed and that we were able to help her. She repeatedly thanked us, but we reminded her that it wasn't us she should give credit to.  She had just been blessed by God and He deserved the glory.  Now you might not think that guns and God are a good mix, but I'm here to tell you that He will use any situation to show Himself and to give us opportunities to serve each other.  Tina is on her way to securing the safety of herself and her daughters, and I have a new friend.  It was a win-win for everybody!

Proverbs 19:20-21     Listen to counsel and receive instruction,
That you may be wise in your latter days. There are many plans in a man’s heart, Nevertheless the Lord’s counsel—that will stand.

"Why Do You Need A Gun?"

     A couple of days ago, Peace-Loving Warrior and I made a trip to San Antonio to visit with my sister and her friend, who had flown in from St. Louis for the weekend.  We'd agreed to meet at an outdoor cafe and spend a few hours enjoying the mild Texas weather.  The one thing you need to understand is that my sister is a hard-core Midwesterner, having lived nearly her entire life in that mixed-up state called Illinois.  It is the land of my birth, and the land of my forefathers.  I have a deep affection for it.

     But, around my early high school years, I knew that I didn't belong there.  I couldn't explain it at the time, but I felt like I was being suffocated; like a square peg in a round hole.  I wasn't content to follow the same path as my classmates.  I wanted adventure and new experiences. College gave me the opportunity to explore my independence in the exhilarating state of Texas. Under the big open skies of the Lone Star state, I felt no limitations.  There, I found encouragement to take risks and I dared to dream of a life beyond the normal expectations.  It has been my experience that Midwesterners are more reserved and concrete in their thinking; in Texas, there are few boundaries and a free reign to reach for all that life has to offer.  Here, in Texas, we aren't apt to "settle" for anything less than complete autonomy.
     I don't mean to stamp the entire state of Illinois with my childhood prejudices.  Looking back, I can see that God had another plan for me, even if that meant moving far from my family and friends.
     Needless to say, my sister and I love each other, but our lives have taken separate paths.  I am very proud of her.  She is happily married to one of the kindest, gentlest men I have ever known.  Together, they have raised three fine boys, all of whom are pursuing careers in law enforcement.  She has beat breast cancer and went on to get her Master's degree in Education.  She has accomplished much that is worthy of praise.  But within my family sphere, PLW and I are known for our candid and passionate views; our unconventional lifestyle, and our lack of interest for the status quo.  Among most of my family members, it was expected that you would live in the same place you grew up; get a job in an area business; meet a nice boy and raise your family; and most certainly, never worry or take an interest in what politicians in Washington did.
     So, as you can imagine, I'm the nonconformist in my family. You throw PLW into that mix, and we're "the wild and crazy aunt and uncle from Texas."  Therefore, it's always interesting when I get one of my midwestern siblings on my home turf.  (Yes, I've been in Texas now for over 40 years, so that qualifies me to claim it as my home).  My sister loves the smart-ass component of PLW, and had forewarned her friend, Diane, that there might be some verbal sparring when we met up.
     After the first few minutes of introductions, we placed our order for a pitcher of prickly-pear margaritas and a variety of appetizers and settled in for an informal exchange of ideas.  It didn't take long for my sister to throw down the gauntlet.  "So, PLW .... are you packin'?"
     My husband smiled and said, "Of course..... and so is your sister."  She looked at me, mildly surprised, and said, "Really?"  I just calmly pulled my purse from my side, and pointed to the concealed carry chamber in the side pocket, and replied, "I always keep it with me."  Now, I must tell you, that her oldest son is a lead investigator with the Illinois State police, her middle son is waiting to enter the Police Academy in St. Louis, and her youngest son is applying to the State police in Illinois, following in his big brother's footsteps.  So guns are not an offensive item to her.  She just doesn't see the need for one herself.
     Those thoughts were echoed by her friend, Diane, who spoke right up.  "Why do you need a gun?" By the tone in her voice, I could tell she wasn't one of those anti-gun extremists; in fact, I could tell that she had never given any real thought as to why she might need a gun.
     "First of all," I said, "I want to be able to protect myself in any threatening situation.  I simply do not believe that the police can get to me in time.  Secondly, it is my constitutional right to carry a gun."  On that point, I was glad to see that she agreed with me.  "Are you expecting to be in a dangerous situation?  What makes you think it is that bad?"  I instantly recognized the It will never happen to me attitude.  I'm pretty sure that the theater-goers in Aurora, CO and the parents of the Newtown students never thought it would happen to their loved ones either.  I told her that I never wanted to be in a defenseless situation, and the world is getting uglier.
     We went on to discuss my thoughts on the importance of training, and my growing conviction that Concealed Carry Licenses should not be issued until holders of that license have received legitimate training on how to properly handle a weapon, as well as sufficient defense training.  By law, being able to pass a written test and hit a paper target from 3, 7 and 15 yards may qualify you to carry a defensive weapon, but it is my opinion that more training is necessary.  There is so much more that is required of you when you decide to start carrying that gun.

     From that part of our conversation, she could see that I wasn't some raving gun fanatic.  I had given it a lot of thought and she knew why I had chosen to carry concealed.  Then Diane relayed an interesting story that had recently happened to her.  Having been a single mom, raising three boys, Diane had sacrificed for many years.  She had recently purchased a new Toyota Camry and had stopped to purchase gas, leaving her purse in the passenger seat.  Out of nowhere a young man ran up behind her, knocked her down and jumped into the driver's seat, attempting to drive off.  Diane jumped up, opened the door as he started down the street and then she grabbed, with both hands, onto the steering wheel.  The car-jacker kept driving, dragging her down the street as they fought for control of the vehicle.  He screamed at her to let go, but she refused, still being drug alongside the car.  She was screaming for help, and a crowd was beginning to notice the commotion.  Finally, the would-be car thief abandoned his crime, shoved past her and ran off.  Diane stopped the theft of her car and was lucky enough to come away from it with only a few scrapes and bruises.
     I then asked her, "Where were the police?"  She said, "There wasn't time to call them.  They didn't arrive until over a half-hour later."  I asked her, "What if he had carried a gun?"  She replied, "I didn't even have time to think, I just reacted to protect my car."
     I thought carefully how to present my argument to her.  "I'm sure you are aware of how incredibly lucky you were to survive that incident."  She nodded.  "Now, think about this.  What if your assailant had possessed a gun?  In my defensive handgun training classes, I have been taught to always be aware of your surroundings.  Hopefully, you would not be caught by surprise and he would not have been able to sneak up on you.
      I think we can agree that if he had approached you from behind with a gun, you would have had no way to defend yourself; the police weren't coming -- you didn't even have time to call them."  She was an intelligent woman and I could see the wheels turning.  "It is my viewpoint that a good way to defend yourself in that situation is to be trained in self-defense using a handgun.  That doesn't mean you have to shoot someone.  It is my hope that I never have to fire my gun at anyone.  But if I am assaulted, it is an effective tool to keep an attack from happening, or in the worst case scenario, to save my life from an assailant with a gun."
     To be honest with you, I don't think I convinced her.  She, like many Americans, think violence will never happen to them.  She wasn't anti-gun; I will give her that.  She just did not see how it could serve her to be trained to defend herself in such a manner.  I wish I could have made her understand that without such training and knowledge, then we are all victims.  This life is fleeting, but it is a blessing; and worthy of defense.   And whether force comes from a tyrannical government or a punk wanting to steal your car, you have a right to defend yourself -- a constitutional right and a moral right.  I will not surrender my chance at life to a lucky break (such as she experienced), or to the hope that someone will rescue me.  No!  I choose to be a responsible gun-owner, in charge of defending myself in a trustworthy and dependable manner.  The bad guys are not going away.  And they will always have access to guns.  So why not be prepared to defend yourself?   I will not become a victim!

Psalm 70:2     "May those who want to take my life be put to shame and confusion; may all who desire my ruin be turned back in disgrace."

A Tale Of Two Fathers

     This past week, I'm sure you heard the news stories about the fathers who were confronted with someone breaking into their homes, and threatening their families.  Both fathers took action to protect their children; both stories ended in dramatically different fashions.
     In Miami, Florida, 36-year-old Maurice Harris fought with two heavily-armed men after they broke into his home and held he and his wife at gunpoint.  It was when one of them approached the bedroom of his sleeping 11-year-old daughter that this brave man decided to make his move.  He allegedly charged the suspect; they fought; then he was shot and killed.

     The outcome was different 6oo miles to the north, in Prince Edward, Virginia.  When three men busted down the door to a modest rural home, they were met with gunfire, as the homeowner and father protected his two-year-old son.  Two of the suspected armed robbers were killed, while the third managed to escape.  The father and his child were unharmed.
     Both instances make the hair on the back of my neck stand up.  I think this is every homeowner's worst nightmare.  You are awakened in the middle of the night by the sound of someone breaking down your door, and in a matter of seconds, your family is in danger.  If the criminals are armed, you are at their mercy.  How do you expect to protect your family?
     Those who, like the Police Chief of Emeryville, California, think that "a gun is not a defensive weapon", should take a few moments and think about the consequences of the above-related stories.  The father who legally owned a firearm was able to defend his family.  The father who tried to fight armed criminals without the aid of a gun lost his life.  Which makes more sense?
     And let's not forget the Georgia mother of a few weeks ago who successfully defended herself and her two children from an armed criminal who stalked them in their own home to an upstairs attic.  Does anyone really think that the outcome would have been the same if she had not had a weapon?
     To say that a gun has no value as a method of defending yourself is like saying an automobile is nothing but a killing machine because of the number of traffic fatalities.  All inanimate objects can be used for good or evil, depending on the motives of the operator.  But to assume that guns are only an "offensive" weapon, meant to intimidate people and to be used for a show of power seems clearly one-sided; spoken from the Police Chief's perspective.  Yes, a gun in the hand of a police officer can be offensive when trying to curb crime.  But I bet if you asked a cop who saved his own life, or that of a fellow officer by firing back at armed criminals, he would say he was "defending" himself.
     The whole gun debate has become so politically driven, that we've seemed to have lost all common sense when it comes to the issue.  Having vilified the weapon, instead of the person using the weapon, our society is ready to condemn this effective tool for self-defense.  So just how would "they" suggest we protect ourselves in this increasingly violent culture?

     Are we to assume that the hundreds of gun laws on the books are going to convince all the bad guys to just lay down their weapons?  We know they're not going to register them or turn them in, since many of them were gained illegally.  Do you really think they are suddenly going to be willing to do the "moral and just" thing?  And if the anti-gun proponents are willing to let those guns stay in circulation, while expecting law-abiding citizens to turn theirs in, then how do they propose we stay safe and defend ourselves?
     Perhaps the Police Chief of Emeryville should have a sit-down with Milwaukee County Police Chief David Clarke, who recently stated in a radio ad, "With officers laid off and furloughed, simply calling 911 and waiting is no longer your best option... You could beg for mercy from a violent criminal, hide under the bed, or you can fight back."  Clarke then urged listeners to take a firearm safety course and handle a firearm "so you can defend yourself until we get there."
     The police chief doesn't buy into the politically correct mantra of the anti-gun supporters. "You have a duty to protect yourself and your family."  He ended his radio ad with, "We're partners now. Can I count on you?"
     Now here is a law enforcement officer who deals in reality!  We are at the mercy of violent criminals.  What reasonable person wants to abdicate the safety of themselves or their family to another person?  Do you really want to rely on 911 and the response time of law enforcement?
     The decision to own a firearm and get responsible training is very personal.  It is unfortunate that our society has deteriorated to the point that it needs to be considered for personal protection.  But to deny that fact is to live in delusion.  It must also be stated that owning a firearm for personal defense is not a license for citizens to take the place of law enforcement; but it is a viable tool to protect yourself and your family until law enforcement arrives.  Those can be valuable seconds.  And in the lives of these two fathers, it meant the difference between deliverance and devastation.

Luke 11:21    "When the strong man, fully armed, [from his courtyard] guards his own dwelling, his belongings are undisturbed [his property is at peace and is secure]."
 

Quinn vs. Costas

     Unless you have been incommunicado for the last 48 hours, you are aware of the tragedy that struck the NFL this last weekend.  The reasons behind the murder/suicide of Kansas City Chiefs linebacker Jovan Belcher and his girlfriend, Kasandra Perkins, will be discussed for months.  It was a tragic event; a horrible action taken by a disturbed man.  And it is unfortunate that he chose a gun as his weapon of choice.  Because if he had chosen to kill his girlfriend with a knife, or run her over with his car, we would not have had to be subjected to the ridiculous lecture sportscaster Bob Costas felt entitled to offer the American public.
    First of all, who does he think he is?  What makes him qualified to offer an opinion on this subject?  His bias was blatant and par-for-the-course for a media who hates the Second Amendment.  They refuse to realize that the gun did not commit the murder.  The man did.  Without Jovan pulling the trigger, the gun is not a factor in Kasandra's death.  Yet, the gun became the killer in Costas's diatribe.  And to add to the hypocrisy of his rant, he played the coward, and used the words of writer Jason Whitlock to advance his personal agenda.  Here is a portion of the Costa harangue:

     "Our current gun culture, Whitlock wrote, ensures that more and more domestic disputes will end in the ultimate tragedy, and that more convenience-store confrontations over loud music coming from a car will leave more teenage boys bloodied and dead.’
     Handguns do not enhance our safety. They exacerbate our flaws, tempt us to escalate arguments, and bait us into embracing confrontation rather than avoiding it.
      In the coming days, Jovan Belcher’s actions and their possible connection to football will be analyzed. Who knows? But here, wrote Jason Whitlock, is what I believe: If Jovan Belcher didn’t possess a gun, he and Kasandra Perkins would both be alive today."
     My first thought is this .... Costas and his alter-ego Whitlock both blame the "gun" culture for domestic disputes raging out of control.  Have they considered "the culture" in general?  What about the "drug" culture?  Or the "hip hop" music culture that glorifies killing cops and raping women?  Once again, I'd like to point out that a gun is just one weapon of choice among these social criminals.  The guns can't "cause" someone to pull the trigger, yet both mind-altering drugs and hate-driven music can both instigate a mindset that encourages such violence.
      And if they truly believe guns contribute to a high number of deaths in such "convenience-store confrontations", then why not work to enforce the strict gun laws that are on the books?  Both Washington D.C. and New York have some of the strictest gun laws in the nation, yet their rates of death-by-gun are among the highest in the nation.  So if more restrictive gun laws will limit deaths, as the anti-gun proponents claim, then their argument falls flat, as the DC and New York rates show.  And Costas and his gang always forget the statistics that show when guns are purchased in "right to carry" states, gun violence goes down.  Didn't mention that, did you, Bob?

     OK, now let's take a look at the comments from Brady Quinn, the Kansas City Chiefs quarterback.  Quinn talked about what he and others could have done to possibly prevent such a tragedy.
     "We live in a society of social networks, with Twitter pages and Facebook, and that’s fine, but we have contact with our work associates, our family, our friends, and it seems like half the time we are more preoccupied with our phone and other things going on instead of the actual relationships that we have right in front of us.
     Hopefully people can learn from this and try to actually help if someone is battling something deeper on the inside than what they are revealing on a day-to-day basis.”
     In his comments, Quinn focused on the real heart of this issue.  He, too, pointed out how our culture has changed.  But rather than pointing to the instrument of Kasandra's death, he addressed the reasons that might have contributed to Jovan "using" that particular weapon.   The action was taken by Jovan, not the gun.  Quinn's comments show his compassion and humaneness. Costas's show his lack of empathy for domestic violence victims and the purposeful promotion of his personal anti-gun agenda.  He took advantage of the tragic deaths of two people to voice a tasteless and callous attack on the Second Amendment.  It was not the place nor the time.  Shame on you, Costas!

Psalm 17:10    "They close up their callous hearts, and their mouths speak with arrogance." 
     
   

Book Review: Joe Nobody's "The Home-Schooled Shootist"

     Many of you will be familiar with Joe Nobody, but just in case you're unacquainted with this Everyman, he expresses all those thoughts and "politically incorrect" questions you have about Big Brother.  He also has a collection of informative and "How To" books that should be in every preppers library.  Joe has asked me to review his book, The Home Schooled Shootist: Training to Fight With a Carbine.  This latest book is an instruction guide for intermediate to advanced shooters, and since I don't feel adequately qualified to give my opinion on such a subject, I thought I would invite my very first guest writer to offer his insight on the book.  
     I have asked my husband, Peace-Loving Warrior, (who is incidentally, quite a shooter, himself) to give an honest review from an experienced shooter.  Here is PLW's critique:

     Before giving you my unbiased opinion on this book, I feel I should give you some credentials, and tell you why Belle felt I was qualified to give you my assessment.
     I just wrapped up a 3-day Advanced Carbine Course with Travis Haley, formally the front man for Magpul Industries, the premiere firearms designer.  He now runs his own gig, called Haley Strategic Partners.  I spent three mentally and physically challenging days learning how to manipulate my carbine under every stress situation imaginable.
     Along with the other handgun and carbine training classes I've taken, I think I'm a pretty good judge as to whether an instruction guide is legitimate and useful for the reader.  So in keeping with an outlaw theme, I'm going to present my opinion as The Good, The Bad & The Ugly.

     The Good.  There is a lot to like about Joe's book.  The reader can tell that Joe has poured out his fountain of knowledge and experience in a sincere effort to get those who are awake up to speed on their skills and training.  Joe starts off this guide with a powerful statement, which if taken to heart, may be the most important mission statement in the entire book:  "This book is about dominating in a gunfight."  
     Joe gets to the point and tells the truth.  His book is really about setting a baseline from which untrained shooters can assess where they are on a scale of skill levels.  This is done through a series of various drills.  After all, how can you improve, if you don't know where your baseline is?
     This book is very comprehensive and informative.  To go into detail about all the drills would be exhaustive, but they are all helpful and instructive.  So let's just talk about generalities, OK?  If you purchase this book, here's what you will learn on your way to becoming a formidable gunfighter:
1.    The OODA Loop - if this is new lingo to you, purchase this book!
2.    Natural Point of Aim
3.    Weak and Strong Hand Shooting
4.    Mag reloads and "immediate action drills" (Joe teaches some fantastic drills in Chapter 3.  If you don't know how to run your gun, then get this book!
5.    Equipment Checklist
6.    Stance - Grip - Sight Picture and Trigger
7.    Zeroing and Dry Firing
8.    Barriers & Corners
9.    Ballistics of the 5.56
10.  Reloading the 5.56

     This is just a taste of what you will learn.  Will it make you a better gunfighter?  Well, my friend, that's up to you.  Will you be willing to find the time to train, and improve, and commit his drills and actions to muscle memory?  If the answer is "yes", then get this book.  In all honesty, this isn't a book to read and leave stored in your hard drive.  To really learn from it, this book will take effort and training on your part.

The Bad.   I've read other reviews of this book, and they see it as a replacement for real training.  But I strongly disagree.  This opinion doesn't reflect on Joe or his book, but when a gunfight starts, you will only be as good as your training.  If that training is not committed to muscle memory, and you are stuck in your adversary's OODA loop; then you, my friend, are in trouble.  So get some qualified, professional training, and add Joe's drills to your routines and range sessions.  This book is a great addendum to your training regimen.

The Ugly.  OK, this may be unimportant to most people, but I'm not wild about the cover of this book.  As a prepper, I can appreciate Joe's target audience.  But this book is a legitimate guide and cross-over book --- both preppers and shooters have much to gain from Joe's base of knowledge.  For me, the cartoonish aspect of the cover minimizes the important information within.  But, hey, maybe it's just me.
     So, all in all, I give Joe five stars on content, and three on the cover art.  To sum it up .... Get this book!

Proverbs 15:31-32       "If you listen to constructive criticism, you will be at home among the wise.  If you reject discipline, you only harm yourself; but if you listen to correction, you grow in understanding. "

My Concealed Carry Problem Is Solved!

     Whether you are a woman, like me, who has been struggling to find the perfect method of carrying a concealed weapon, or you are the husband who is looking for a way to encourage his wife to carry concealed, I think I have found the best solution to date.  It's the Smith & Wesson M&P Shield.  This 9mm pistol has received lots of glowing reviews from men, but I want to tell you ---  woman-to-woman --- how it meets my needs.
     In the past I've shared my journey of gun ownership and training.  I started with the Springfield XD 9mm as my first range pistol.  I graduated to the Glock 19 and then to the Baby Glock, hoping that this compact gun would allow me to carry concealed.  These handguns would work if I wanted to use a concealed carry purse.  But I had decided that this option would not be my primary choice for different reasons:  1) I didn't like the idea that my defensive weapon was not on my person.  I have trained with my handgun in a range holster and liked the feel of it in that position.   2) I didn't want to have to worry about someone taking my purse away from me during a struggle, or  3) stealing the purse while I was distracted.  But the Glock 26 was still too big and I could not effectively find a way to hide the fact that I was carrying.

     Then I heard about the Shield, did my research and saw all the photos that compared its width to all the compact guns on the market.  It looked like it just might be the answer to my problem.  Then I held one in my hand and the difference was phenomenal!  I know it wasn't, but it feels like it was made for a woman's hand.  The width measures less than an inch and it weighs in at 19 ounces, making it considerably lighter than any other option.
     I made up my mind that this was the handgun I wanted.  Then came the wait.  It has become one of the most popular handguns in the country and the waiting list at gun stores is getting longer by the day. After pre-paying and being promised that it would probably be 3-4 weeks before I received my purchase, you can imagine my frustration when that time frame turned into 2 1/2 months.  I then lucked into a family-owned store that was able to get me the firearm in less than a week.  So if you decide to go this route, be prepared to be more patient than I was.  I had increased the level of my training, and it was time to get down to business and find the right carry gun.  That happened with the Shield.
     Then came the ultimate tests:  training with the gun and actually carrying it.  The Shield passed the first test with great results.  I put close to 150 rounds through the chamber that first day and had only one jam, probably due to my limp-wristing it as I grew accustomed to the recoil.  I was most impressed with the trigger pull, which felt the same as my Glock 26, which I love.  The Shield has a good, short reset; very distinctive -- you can feel it and hear it, making "catching the link" easy.  The recoil was less than I expected, only slightly more than my Baby Glock, and it won't take long to adjust to.  I found that the slide lock is further back than you would think, so you ladies will need to work on acquiring the skill to overcome the tight spring.  But it is definitely within your grasp.  I really liked the magazine release. It drops fast and smooth.  The single stack mags are available in both 7 and 8 round capacities, and I recommend stocking up on as many as you can find.   Get ready to put your name on a waiting list for them, too.

      The real test came when I wore it concealed.  For me and my body type, I found that it is most comfortable to carry appendix-style in an inside-the-waistband Comp-Tac holster.  I wore it all day, both while driving in the car and running errands.  While it felt a little foreign at first, it literally took just minutes for me to feel comfortable with it in place.  I was sure that everyone I came in contact with knew I was carrying, and thought everyone could see the imprint of the handgun.  But my husband assured me that no one would think I was carrying and therefore wouldn't be looking for it and could not see it.  I was conscious of my responsibility and privilege as a concealed-carry holder, and thrilled that I could safely and comfortably protect myself.  Granted, this method of carrying will not work with my entire wardrobe, but I now know that I can dress around it and there is an option for me.
     I know that when you carry small guns you give up something --- either firepower, round capacity, or accuracy --- but I have to say that the Shield minimizes all these shortcomings.  It truly fills the gap between the "pocket gun" and all their problems, and compact guns like the Glock 26.  And with the Shield, you get a striker-fired gun with a good trigger reset that costs half the price of comparable "slim" models like the Kahr PM 9.   The only thing that I want on this gun and that I can't get is after-market night sights, made specifically for this gun.  But I've waited this long to come this close to my perfect carry gun, so I can wait a little longer.   After all, I need to work on that whole "patience is a virtue" area of my life.

Psalm 33:20      "We wait in hope for the Lord; He is our help and our shield."