The Importance Of Training ... In Everything!

     This past weekend I attended a two-day Handgun Training Course.  As the holder of a Concealed Handgun License, I take my responsibility seriously.  Just because I have the license in my wallet, it doesn't mean I am qualified to defend myself, or that I will react properly and safely in any given scenario.  It's all about Practice and Preparation.
     The same could be said about everything I am doing to get ready for a changing world.  Just as our handgun class reviewed all the basics of safe gun handling, and then moved into new skills that tested my stamina, my resolve and my mindset; so must I apply this same attitude to any new situation or crisis I may find myself in.

Train with a simulator to make
gun-handling safe & automatic

     For instance, I was forced to think how I would have reacted in the recent Batman theatre shooting in Colorado.  I was taught that each of us needs to formulate our own mindset on how we would respond to a home invasion, a mass shooting at the mall, a sudden attack in a parking garage.  I realized that I need to think through all these events and know how I want to respond before I am forced to make a sudden decision.  If I have to think about it then, it is too late, and my decision-making process will cost me precious time --- and quite possibly, my life.  I need to prepare my response and then practice the skills to attain the desired response.  The most important elements of this approach are that the response needs to be automatic, and the skill be flawless.
     It made me realize that I should use every situation I find myself in as an opportunity to review what my plan of defense would be.  The next time you go to the grocery store, church, sporting event, or even if you are home at night watching TV; make a point of knowing where your exits are, what you could use for a barricade, how you would defend yourself if confronted with an armed assault.  Do you have any weapons available, or are they stored in the trunk of your car, or locked in the safe ---- useless to you in your time of need.  And if it's dark, can you load and unload your weapon by feel?  If you're shot in your strong arm, can you transition to your weak arm and continue defending yourself?  If the attack comes at you swiftly and by surprise, can you draw your weapon quick enough to save your life?  The only way you can answer "Yes" to any of these scenarios is if you have practiced, practiced, practiced.

     This same mindset can be used to think how you would react if you suddenly found yourself without power or water.  Do you ever go through the steps in your mind of how you would feed your family?  Keep warm in the winter?  Supply water for drinking, washing and gardening?  Do you know how to light a fire?  Do you know how to hunt for your food?  I could name a hundred different day-to-day events that we take for granted in our spoiled modern lives.  But if you haven't at least thought about these situations, let alone know how you would respond and have the skills to adapt, then I would highly recommend that you acquire the knowledge and then practice cooking your food over a fire, planting and harvesting a garden, collecting rain water for survival.  Because, the time to actually call upon a survival mindset and employ these useful skills is not at the moment you are first faced with a crisis.  It will be too late, then.  You must automatically shift into survival mode without losing a beat; no whining, no feeling sorry for yourself.  With training and practice, the process of altering your lifestyle will be smooth and orderly.
     One other thing I learned this last weekend, is that the time to get yourself physically fit for an altered future is now.  We spent a rigorous 12-hour day on Saturday in nearly 100 degree weather.  Fighting dehydration and exhaustion along with acquiring new gun training skills took both a mental and physical toll.  That made Day Two even harder for me.  My stamina was fine, but the constant up/down and kneeling punished my knees pretty good.  So I learned another valuable lesson.
     I've got to be ready for any and all physical aspects of a new future.  It will be too late to train and get in good shape when I'm faced with a much more labor-intensive way of life.  I'd rather suffer through the aches and pains now in the comfort of a nice warm bath, with access to both a heating pad and an icepack -- both of which will not be available in a grid-down situation.
     And lastly, I will train my heart and my mind to study and know the Scriptures.  This is a skill that will sustain me throughout anything Evil can throw at us.  And it, too, must be practiced until it becomes automatic; until we can recall the particular message that our Lord spoke to us for just such a time.  It is the one skill that will never fail us, yet it is the easiest to ignore.
     I know that it's so easy to put off what we don't want to do.  None of us really want to contemplate what our minds and our souls are telling us is likely to happen.  Adapting our easy, laid-back culture to accommodate training and alternative lifestyles is costly and time-consuming.  But take it from me, as tired and sore and mentally drained as I was at the end of my weekend, I can't wait to take the class again.  The training I participated in strengthened my resolve to be prepared.  I want to be confident and ready to adapt to any life-threatening situation that comes my way.  And I know I can't accomplish that mindset by sitting on the couch and procrastinating.  I can't wish the world away and I won't be swept along with the tide of chaos and fear.  I will just keep practicing, one skill at a time.  If nothing else, I can be of help to others in their time of need, and all this training can only help me sleep better at night. That is a gift in itself.

Hebrews 12:11       "No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it."

Lessons Learned and Enemies Turned

     Here's what happened:

9:05     I'm sitting at the computer, working on a project for Peace-Loving Warrior, when my attention is immediately drawn towards an alarming scene outside our studio window.  The blond comes around the corner, screaming with every step she takes across the front yard.  By the pitch of her voice, and the frantic cries, I know something is terribly wrong.
9:06     I watch intently, because she is acting like someone is chasing her.  But I don't see anything and rise from my chair to investigate.
9:07     There he is!  He is running at full speed and is about to overtake her!  He reaches her position and knocks her down, sending them both sprawling.
9:08     I run for the door, screaming at PLW, "Get the gun!"  I don't wait to see if he heard me or is acting on my shouted command.
9:09     I ran towards the attacker, screaming, "Get away from here!  Leave her alone!"  Then I see a second enemy running up on the victim, paying no attention to my attempts to distract him from the young female.  From behind me, I hear PLW running hard.  The two assailants suddenly become aware of us, and take off running; one jumping the barbed-wire fence, the second crawling underneath.  They stop about 20 yards on the other side, and look back to see if we are still a threat.
9:10     PLW, on the run, fires a couple of shots from his 9mm.  One of the scumbags goes down.  The other runs off, but soon returns with a buddy.  They are obviously sizing up our position.  I keep an eye on them while PLW takes that time to return to the house for a rifle.  Time to finish off the injured one and send a strong message to the remaining members of the gang.  One shot from the 10-22; another one dispatched.  The last of the gang runs off.  End of attack.

     As I reflect on the scene from this morning, I must admit the adrenaline was flowing, and our actions were automatic.  As we reviewed our "operation", some things became clear.  It didn't matter that the "victim" was just one of our chickens, or that the attackers were part of a pack of coyotes.  This little incident revealed some changes we need to make in our op sec.  And just so you know, there are no small children in our home, so our decisions may vary from those you would make.  Bottom line:  each household must assess their own particular security needs.

     First of all, whenever we are at home, there needs to be an easily accessible, and loaded, firearm within reach.  Having returned from a weekend trip, the gun safe was locked, and PLW had to run from the studio to our bedroom in the house to get his handgun.  Not only was valuable time lost, but the 9mm was not really adequate for the job.  We needed a rifle and didn't have one at our disposal.  LESSON LEARNED:  When we are at home, make sure we have access to all of our firearms. If this had been a human intruder, we would have been at a decided disadvantage.
     Secondly, while I rapidly assessed the situation, and correctly evaluated the need for a firearm, I was probably too quick to engage the aggressors.  I actually ran out the door and entered the yard before I knew the full extent of how many coyotes were on the attack.  If that had been a real gang attacking us, I would have prematurely announced my position.  LESSON LEARNED:  If confronted with human assailants, I need to be armed, and fight from behind a barrier.  At the moment I reacted, I didn't really have an idea of how many coyotes were involved in the attack.
     Thirdly, we realized the maximum number of attackers that two people can effectively defend against.  There were three coyotes, and they maneuvered successfully.  One tried to draw us away from the injured member of the gang, while the third one ran back and forth, daring us to come after him.  LESSON LEARNED:  If approached by multiple attackers, we must fight from a defensive position; working to back each other up and not be drawn into their playbook.

     I know that this scenario doesn't replicate an actual gun battle or home invasion, but it gave me lots to think about.  I was in tune to my animals' calls and recognized that security had been breached.  I also know that I can quickly assess a situation and am not afraid to take action.  I know I need to be aware of where my defensive guns are at all times and be able to access them when necessary.  But, I guess the best thing that came out of today's escapade was that PLW and I worked well together as a team.  Without any prior planning, we each responded effectively and efficiently. I kept the mangy critters distracted while he took action and supplied the firepower.  The pack has been decimated and most of the chickens survived.  Yeah, it's an hour before dusk, and two have not come back from hiding in the brush.  I'm hoping they're undercover, still scared from the day's excitement.  It's been a day of lessons for us all!

Psalm 18:17-19       "He rescued me from my powerful enemy, from my foes, who were too strong for me. They confronted me in the day of my disaster, but the Lord was my support. He brought me out into a spacious place; he rescued me because he delighted in me."

Beware the Concealed Carry Permit Holder Without Training

     You have heard me say it before .... if you are going to be handling a firearm, you need to get trained!  And you have heard my own confession .... I held a Concealed Carry Permit for two years before getting certified training, and I was appalled at how much I didn't know about carrying a weapon for self-protection.  And I feel compelled to sound the alarm again.
     This past weekend my friends, Tom and Ashley, who have trained alongside PLW and myself for the last few months, felt qualified to get their Concealed Carry License.  They attended a one-day class, along with 25 other gun-owners, which included classroom instruction on laws that pertain to concealed carry and self-defense, as well as a firearms proficiency test (to assess how accurately you shoot a target).  We spoke to our friends at the end of the day, and this was their response:  "It was downright terrifying!"

     The story they told perfectly illustrates what I've been warning about.  According to Tom, people arrived at the class with a wide array of weapons; some in plastic bags, and many not even knowing the make and model of the gun they were qualifying with.  He was horrified to witness people with their fingers on the trigger and muzzling everybody in sight!  He said he was amazed that just by taking a class and being able to hit the target, these 25 people would soon be allowed to legally carry a weapon, and most of them would become dangerous not only to themselves, but the general public.
     I am in no way advocating restrictions on Concealed Carry permits.  I am a firm believer in the Bill of Rights and the Second Amendment.  Our right to keep and bear arms should not be infringed upon.  But I'd like to take it one step further.  I'd like to call upon all citizens who decide to take advantage of this most important right to take the responsibility of educating themselves on gun safety before they apply for a CCL.
     The fact is that a large majority of the people in Tom and Ashley's class will never carry a weapon for self-defense.  Their firearm will either stay tucked away in their car or within the confines of their home; rarely, if ever used.  Which is exactly my point!  If you are not going to familiarize yourself with your weapon; know how to safely load and unload it (even in the dark); learn how to manage different stoppages (commonly known as "jams"); or acquire the skills to effectively shoot behind barriers and at multiple targets at different distances --- all conceivably present in a "self-defense" situation --- then that permit tucked away in your wallet does you no good.  You are not automatically protected just by possessing it!  

     Not only do you have a responsibility to yourself to know how that weapon works and to handle it proficiently and safely, you have a second responsibility .... to cause no harm to innocent bystanders.  Just consider the Empire State Building shooting last week.  New York police are responsible for injuries inflicted on nine innocent bystanders during their shootout with the perpetrator.  And they've supposedly had training (but that's a whole other topic).
     My point is this:  you have no business carrying a firearm for self-defense unless you have had certified training in the handling of that weapon.  Through the different scenarios I have run through in my training classes, I can promise you that when confronted with an aggressor, it will be nothing like your CCL class where you stood in front of a target at 3 yards and pulled the trigger.  Your adrenaline will be surging, your heart will be pounding, you're likely to get tunnel vision, and you won't remember a thing that you did.  That's why you have to rely on professional training that will teach you muscle memory and automatic responses.... through countless repetitions of learned skills.  You don't acquire that through osmosis in an 8-hour CCL class.
     So once again, I'm ringing the bell, and shouting from the rooftops.  Just because you passed that Concealed Carry License class, it does not mean you are ready to carry a weapon for self-defense!  Please be sensible and get some instruction; know what that permit entitles you to do and then learn how to correctly operate that weapon and safely defend yourself and your family.   Legally being allowed to carry is simply not enough!

Hebrews 12:11       "No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it."

Doing It Yourself Is Empowering

     I don't know why it took me so long to do it.  But before I reveal what "it" is, let me start at the beginning.  For the past year, I have come into my own in regards to developing my own self-defense system.  I took Beginning gun training classes and then advanced to an accredited 3-day pistol training course and a rifle-training course.  I tried different firearms, deciding which would be best for a range gun and which would best fit my needs as a carry gun.

     But this process did not come without some trial and error.  The trigger pull on this one was too long; this gun is still too big to effectively carry with my style of dress; the inside-the-waistband carry holster works better for me than the outside one.  But the REAL benefit of all these decisions was that I was allowed to make all these choices on my own.  First of all, I'm pretty stubborn and independent, so I'm not exactly a pushover.  But I am fortunate enough to be married to a man who encouraged me to go to the gun dealer and purchase my own gun, in my own name.  "You're the one who is going to be shooting and carrying it, so you have to own the decision."  What a wise man!

     And that's something that I recommend every husband do for their wife.  Take them to the gun dealer, but let them try the different models and make the final decision.  You can make suggestions ... "Are you sure you want that smaller .38?  It may be smaller in size than the 9mm, but the recoil will be much more intense."  But ultimately, you need to let them make their own decision, and if they choose wrong, it will be a learning experience.  It's not the end of the world.  My first firearm was a .38 Lady Smith & Wesson revolver, and it didn't take me long to realize that just shooting target practice was no fun.  It beat me up too much!
     So my husband took me down to the local gun dealer and I traded up to my Springfield XD 9mm when I decided to begin formal training.  It has been a great range gun, but I soon realized that it was not a great concealed carry choice.  I have added to my collection, and each time it was MY choice!  When you are the one filling out the paperwork and the purchase is in your name, it really means something!
     It is a right of passage for young boys; their fathers take them down to the store and they buy their first BB gun or their first shotgun before hunting season.  And those boys are never the same!  And it is the same for us women.  Somehow, taking that step yourself (instead of letting your husband make your purchases for you) is an investment that empowers you.  You now have the responsibility to take that investment seriously.  It is a sizable expenditure and should not be taken lightly or wasted.  When you fill out that paperwork and sign that form, and then walk out with a case in your hand, you have a new identity.  You are a gun owner!  And it is liberating!

     Which brings me back to my original statement.  What have I just done that adds a new dimension to my pride as a gun owner?  I joined the NRA!  And what made me "pull the trigger", so to speak?  The NRA has been an indefatigable opponent to the UN Arms Trade Treaty (ATT).   For nearly 20 years, the NRA has worked tirelessly to warn American gun owners about the United Nations’ efforts to undermine the constitutional rights of law-abiding American gun owners by putting in place international controls on small arms.  They have monitored all U.N. activities that could impact our Second Amendment rights, and have worked with our allies in the U.S. Congress to successfully assemble strong bipartisan opposition to any treaty that adversely impacts the Second Amendment.

     On July 26th, Sen. Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) gathered the signatures of 51 Senators on a letter to President Obama and Secretary of State Clinton opposing any treaty that infringes on our rights. The letter stated "As the treaty process continues, we strongly encourage your administration not only to uphold our country's constitutional protections of civilian firearms ownership, but to ensure--if necessary, by breaking consensus at the July conference--that the treaty will explicitly recognize the legitimacy of lawful activities associated with firearms, including but not limited to the right of self-defense. As members of the United States Senate, we will oppose the ratification of any Arms Trade Treaty that falls short of this standard."  
     And as of this moment, the Conference on the United Nations Arms Trade Treaty (U.N. ATT) has broken down and will not report a draft treaty to the member nations.   But we can't slack off.  It is likely that the Conference will submit a new draft treaty after the U.S. election, and the NRA has proclaimed that they will keep up the pressure to defeat it.  Without the NRA, it is likely this treaty would have been ratified by the Senate and one more death knell would have been delivered to the Second Amendment.  But the NRA can't continue to fight without our help!
     So instead of relying on my husband and other men to lead the way, I made my own decision and added my voice to the discussion.  I now have a "dog in this fight" and it feels good!

Proverbs 31:11     "Her husband has full confidence in her and lacks nothing of value."

Sisters In Arms

     There is nothing more satisfying to me than seeing the enthusiasm with which my female friends embrace gun training.  Although I may have a year or more of instructor-based training on them, we all start out at the same place:  unfamiliar with gun handling, afraid of the recoil, and no confidence in our abilities.  But in no time, we will all be on the same level and advancing and sharpening our skills.
     The transformation is startling.  In Debbie's case, one 8-hour Ladies-Only gun class, taught by certified instructors who specialize in training women, saw her go from a fearful, nervous beginner to a woman who can't stop talking about what she learned, how she "loves" her gun now, and is excited to take the next step in training.  For Carol, who had more experience in gun handling, the class gave her confidence that she was learning all the proper procedures and could now practice on her own and perfect her skills.  And all three of us can now train together, and provide real back up and support for our husbands, should the need ever arise.
     And the real surprise has been the commitment my friends now have for getting their Concealed Carry permits.  Now that they are developing the skills, they can see the real benefit of carrying to defend themselves.  Terri was thrilled to get her permit in the mail, and has been an ardent student in training for different scenarios, including learning to defend against multiple aggressors.  It's amazing how proper training can make that permit have so much more significance.
     Like me, these women are "sensing" a new reality and a real need to take advantage of our Second Amendment right.  Until recently, the gun culture in this country has been "a man's world."  But training courses and shooting ranges are seeing a brisk business, and women are the driving force.  And in households where there has been no previous gun owner, the woman is very often the initiator.  As a home-schooling mom, my friend Bindi, is taking control.  Her husband is following her lead, and agreed to get training, although he is not as motivated as she is.  But Bindi points out that she is at home all day (alone) with their three boys, and she knows she only has herself to count on when it comes to protecting their family.  She is calm and composed as she explains that a gun is the extra layer of protection she needs to defend her children.
     Of course, the anti-gun advocates will point out that having a gun in the home is risky; the potential for harm to a child or an innocent victim makes gun ownership a liability.  But if you ask any of my friends if they worry about safety when a gun is present in their home, they will tell you that with the proper training, those concerns disappear.  Parents must ultimately be responsible for securing that weapon and keeping it out of the reach of curious minors, but there are more than enough ways to accomplish that.
     And it's almost laughable, the way the media just can't admit that women are becoming gun owners in increasing numbers.  They will cite poll after poll --- Gallup, the National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF), and independent retailers --- that back up the rising statistics, and then provide some lame excuse why these numbers should be ignored .... because there is no "corroborating sales information", or because the polls are stacked in favor of the gun rights gang.  After all, they snicker, the NSSF has a "dog in the fight."  
     I invite any one of them to come spend a Saturday in any gun retail store, or walk a gun show (where they are still allowed) and see just how many women -- of all ages, sizes, and demographics -- are in attendance.  I guarantee you they have better ways to spend their weekend, and are not just following their husbands around out of boredom.  They have seized the opportunity to become self-reliant and in command of their own safety.  We no longer have to sit on the sidelines and rely on a man to come to our rescue.  Now we are an equal partner in the protection of our homes and families.
   
Ecclesiastes 4:12     "Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken."
   

Small Arms Treaty Is Another Attack On Our Sovereignty

     First, we are told that it is all a matter of "fear-mongering"; once again the nutty gun-lovers of America are seeing threats where there are none.  But there is so much behind-the-scenes maneuvering between our government officials and the United Nations, that anyone paying attention knows that this Treaty doesn't pass the smell test.
     So, just what is the U.N. Arms Trade Treaty?  It is better known as the "small arms treaty", and here is the official statement by the United Nations Office of Disarmament Affairs (even that name makes my skin crawl!) ......  The global trade in conventional weapons – from warships and battle tanks to fighter jets and machine guns – remains poorly regulated. No set of internationally agreed standards exist to ensure that arms are only transferred for appropriate use.
     Many governments have voiced concern about the absence of globally agreed rules for all Countries to guide their decisions on arms transfers. That is why they have started negotiating an Arms Trade Treaty. Preparations to address this issue have been underway since 2006 and will culminate in the Conference on an Arms Trade Treaty in July 2012.

     That means they're at our back door, folks!  And if that doesn't make the hair stand up on the back of your neck, this should.  Both Secretar of State Hillary Clinton and President Obama are openly supporting the ratification of this treaty.  Oh, they will tell you that it has nothing to do with individual gun rights of U.S. citizens, but is an attempt by the U.N. and nations around the world to address gun sales by "rogue nations."
     But what they're not telling you is that this treaty DOES apply directly to the United States because it lumps us together with these so-called "rogue nations."  And it's even more sinister than that; the real motive is to use an international body to bypass our Bill of Rights and the Second Amendment to get what they've wanted all along -- a ban on guns in this country.  You see, it is a poorly disguised attempt to implement massive gun control without having to go through the normal legislative process in Congress -- because they know it would never pass.   The real plan is to ignore Congress and use the U.N. to trump U.S. law by signing a treaty that would grant international supervision over the sale and possession of guns in America.  Pretty slick, huh?
     How would the treaty function?  The Arms Trade Treaty would specifically require signatories to identify and trace, in “a timely and reliable manner,” illicit small arms and light weapons. The information would be required to be submitted to the United Nations.  Supporters say the treaty is necessary to prevent rogue countries from being able to purchase guns from arms dealers.  Critics of the treaty have long felt that it would lead to mandatory registration of all firearms and every sale; even those between individuals.   So it seems pretty clear to me --- the treaty would directly impact gun sales in the U.S. and by extension the gun rights of individual citizens.
     And if that doesn't convince you, here is a statement by Retired Lt. General William Boykin:  "There has been a decree by this administration --- by the president and the secretary of state --- saying that our president will sign the United Nations small arms treaty, which is about how we will buy sell and control individual private weapons.  That means the United Nations, an international body, will decide how you and I, as Americans, can buy and sell our weapons; how we control those weapons; who is authorized to have those weapons; and where they are. This is a dangerous trend."

     So once again, it seems to me that our Leaders are willing to throw away our sovereignty for the sake of being part of the "global community."  It doesn't seem to matter to them that the Constitution gives the power to regulate international commerce to Congress alone, or that the Second Amendment guarantees the “fundamental, individual right to keep and bear arms”, and the U.S. has no business supporting a treaty that infringes on the Bill of Rights.
     Oh, wait.  I forgot.  We've just been shown by the Supreme Court that the Constitution is insignificant, right?  So what makes us think our Bill of Rights will be honored?
     I would caution you to do your own research and make up your own mind as to whether my conclusions about this little "non-threatening" treaty are correct.  (For an in-depth analysis of this Treaty, read this article.)  But as far as I'm concerned, it is appalling that our Government would even consider giving authority to the U.N. to regulate the domestic manufacture, possession or sale of firearms or ammunition; let alone be party to any sort of international gun registry that would impede upon the privacy rights of law-abiding gun owners.
     But this post comes with a further warning .... apparently some Senators have stated they support the general concept of the treaty, but believe countries such as the U.S. should have “exclusive authority to regulate arms within their own borders."  This statement seems to indicate that the Senators believe firearms registration is acceptable provided it is initiated by individual governments.  Do you know your Senator's position?  I suggest you make your opinion known.  And one final thought .... Still feel your Second Amendment rights are secure?

Luke 11:21-22       "When a strong man, fully armed, guards his own house, his possessions are safe.  But when someone stronger attacks and overpowers him, he takes away the armor in which the man trusted and divides up his plunder."

Saturday Morning Commentary: A Simple "Thank You" Is Not Enough

     I have had the pleasure, along with my husband, of being able to introduce nearly 100 people to an experience they never expected to get involved in, let alone enjoy.  In fact, I would hazard a guess that the vast majority of them were terrified the first time they picked up a handgun.  But they faced the scary monster, knowing we've come to a time in our history when it is beneficial for them to be educated in the art of gun-handling.  They were now ready to take that first important step:  professional instruction in a safe and secure environment.
     This post is not about the satisfaction I have when a woman, who was scared to death of picking up an unloaded gun at the beginning of the training, leaves the range at the end of the day wanting more.  It is not about seeing her sense of accomplishment and a new appreciation for her ability to defend herself.
     Instead, it is about the selfless commitment and dedication of the instructors, who give up their weekends and time off with their families to offer their skills and knowledge to neophytes who don't know the difference between a clip and a magazine, and don't have the first clue how to even pick up a handgun.

     Last weekend, we enlisted their help once again, and they answered the call.  We only had 7 students this time, hardly worth giving up a beautiful spring Saturday.  But they didn't hesitate.  They spent as much time, with as much patience, as if we had brought them our normal class of 22 - 25.  As they expressed to the group, they love what they do.  Their enthusiasm for introducing women to tactical gun training is evident in their calm, relaxed manner and their eagerness for each student to become proficient in the basic gun-handling skills.
     Whether it is a woman handling a gun for the first time, or a seasoned male shooter who thought he knew it all, every person we have introduced to these instructors has thanked us over and over for introducing them to this level of professional gun training.  They leave the range a safer gun owner; exhausted, but excited about the skills they've acquired.
     So I want to personally thank Daryl, Jay, Pat, Lisa and Dr. Tobin, and ALL the professional gun instructors across this great nation who provide a valuable service in maintaining a free citizenry.  We appreciate you!

What Gun Culture 2.0 Can Teach Culture 1.0

     Ok, I know this is probably going to be a controversial post.  And first and foremost, I want everyone to understand that what I'm about to say is not intended to criticize or offend anyone.  It is simply an observation from my personal experiences.  So, here goes....
     As a member of Gun Culture 2.0 (those who did not grow up around guns, but came to it from a self-defense position), I have approached gun ownership from a completely different perspective than a lot of my husband's generation.  Gun Culture 1.0 had shotguns and rifles in their hands before they entered first grade.  Hunting is second nature to them, and they are certain the Second Amendment is their God-given right.
     They are all good shots and gun safety is intuitive and instinctive to them.  I, on the other hand, am new to the handling of guns, and I came to gun ownership through a desire to be able to competently defend myself.  Therefore, my instruction came at the hands of professional trainers, who not only taught me how to hit my target, but instructed me on gun safety and how to regard my right to carry a weapon.
     That's where some of the members of 1.0 and 2.0 part ways.  I have grown to enjoy listening to "Gun Talk", a radio program hosted by Tom Gresham.  I have been amazed at the number of 1.0 members that think we should recreate the Alamo in pushing Second Amendment rights.  They don't care what public opinion is in regards to gun ownership.... "We have the Second Amendment and they can't take that away from us."

     But I would like to put forth another argument.  I think we better care about what the public thinks, because that same public can vote and start chipping away at that Second Amendment right!  No matter what anybody tries to say, the issue of gun ownership is being tried in the court of public opinion. Namely, I can foresee Concealed Carry becoming our opponent's first rallying cry.
     Consider this:  our political power as gun owners owes a lot to 2.0 members.  The more people who have CCLs and get the proper training, the harder it will be to take that right away.  These millions of CCL holders are building a wall between the Government and the Second Amendment.  Every CCL permit is another brick in that wall which protects the Second Amendment.
    But when shooters like George Zimmerman make the decisions they do, it taints us all.   Yes, he had the requisite permit to carry a gun, but I think it's fair to say he had not received the proper training in regards to the use of that weapon.  Just having a permit to carry doesn't mean you know how to approach a given situation.  (We are taught in training, never to go looking for trouble.  Obviously, that wasn't a consideration for Zimmerman).
     I believe in the right to carry concealed -- that's why I got my permit.  But I was uncomfortable with handling a gun and sought proper training.  Because of that training, I have learned how to react in different situations and when it is acceptable to pull your weapon.  I have been taught a self-defense mindset that is completely different from a gun owner with an untrained perspective.
    Yes, the right to carry arms is guaranteed in the Constitution, but remember.... Amendments can be eroded and even repealed.  And if you get enough voters to influence the right politicians, it is not unreasonable to expect that this most sacred of amendments can become a thing of the past.  
     When we push the issue, and try to create a "Rosa Parks" moment, and declare "We ain't backing down!", then I'm afraid we alienate those who can vote our right away.
     Am I passionate about preserving this right?  You bet I am!  But am I seeing a difference in attitude between the professionally trained gun owners of Culture 2.0, and some of the "born and bred" owners of Culture 1.0?  Absolutely!  We need to come together in our approach and play this smart.  We need each other!
      But don't take it from me.... read Michael Bane, Tom Gresham, Masayoob, Tiger McKee.  They'll tell you that without training, you don't even know what you don't know.  My own husband, Peace-Loving Warrior, is an excellent example of Gun Culture 1.0.  He grew up hunting and shooting competitively, and will be the first to admit that his gun training was the best thing he ever did!  Until we can get Gun Culture 1.0 to see the difference between marksmanship and real gun training, I think we will continue to have ongoing Zimmerman-type problems.  And his "in your face" position and strategy doesn't result in the gun ownership protections we both seek.

Romans 14:19     "Let us therefore make every effort to do what leads to peace and to mutual edification."

What I Learned In 5 Seconds

     When my husband announces that he has a new drill he wants me to practice, I have two reactions:  1)  Apprehension - Will I perform it competently?  and  2)  Eagerness - Any time practicing with my carry gun can be nothing but good!
     We first saw this drill on pistol-training.com, and then read an article by Richard Mann, a former law enforcement officer who developed the drill based on common handgun responses he detected.  What he learned was that your ability to survive a gunfight depends on your performance level under stress --- it's that plain and simple.  To quote Mr. Mann, "Any gun is better than no gun -- but only if you can get it out quick and can hit what you need to hit, repeatedly, with speed and decisiveness." 
     It was interesting to read his observations, but I wanted to know how I would perform!  So we went to our private little shooting range (just across the barbed wire fence and down by the tank), and I geared up.
     The name of the drill is the Four-Five (or 45) because it consists of four elements of 5:  five shots at five yards inside a five-inch circle in five seconds.  Sound simple?  Think again.  First of all, to be an accurate reflection of real-world performance, the drill must be performed from the holster.  After all, if you are involved in a shooting, it will more than likely take place when you are carrying concealed.  Secondly, a "real life" situation will put tremendous stress on you, so to replicate that pressure you need a Shot Timer that emits a shrill beep when the timer begins.  And you need a 5-inch circle or square.  This is the exact size of the target I was shooting at:

     So I decided to first see what I could do at 3 yards; see what my stress reaction was to the startling high octave shriek of the Shot Timer.  Then I performed the drill at the specified 5 yards and here are some of my results:

At 3 yards           all 5 hits             4.6 seconds  (No problem if the perp is right on top of me).

At 5 yards           4 of 5 hits           5.1 seconds  (Trying to make time; accuracy suffered a bit).

At 5 yards           5 of 5 hits           6.4 seconds  (Concentrated on accuracy, but lost significant speed).

I then expanded my space to 15 yards and tried the drill, just to see how distance affected speed and accuracy.  It obviously affected both!

At 15 yards         4 of 5 hits           7.8 seconds   (Distance adds serious time; accuracy also declines).

     So what was the overriding lesson I learned?  PRACTICE! PRACTICE! PRACTICE!  I now have a good idea of what my performance standard is.  I also know that in order to increase my skills and be able to perform the drill accurately and with speed, I need to practice until I can get all 5 shots in that 5-inch square from 5 yards out, in 5 seconds..... and do it on demand, consecutively and repeatedly.  Then I will know that I can perform under stress and have reached a competent skill level for basic self-defense.
     This is an exceptional drill for anyone with a Concealed Carry License, but especially for women.  It is not natural for us to carry a weapon, let alone be confident to handle one under stress.  Practicing this drill until you are proficient at it will make it second nature for you.  The only equipment you really need is a Shot Timer and a 5-inch square drawn on a piece of cardboard.
     And I don't need to tell you that practice is the foundation to being a skilled defensive handgun owner.  I have shown you a drill whereby you can easily learn your performance standard, and then practice until you reach your goal.....speed and accuracy.  Quoting Mr. Mann again, "Without practicing what you learn, you have in essence learned nothing."

1 Corinthians 3:10     "By the grace God has given me, I laid a foundation as a wise builder, and someone else is building on it. But each one should build with care."

"Distance From Disorder" Is Desired State of Being

     A few nights ago, I spent over two hours listening to "Frank", the Criminal Defense Attorney I introduced you to a few posts back.  As promised, he put on a seminar for about 35 Concealed Handgun License holders, and bottom line...... he scared the pants off me!
     Of course the Trayvon Martin/George Zimmerman case was at the forefront of his presentation and provided quite a bit of material for discussion.  Frank reminded us that our CHL is a privilege, granted by the State --- not a right.  He then spent considerable time explaining the legal ramifications of being involved in a shooting.  Terms like "Reasonable Belief"; "Deadly Force in Defense of Person", "Adequate Cause" and "Sudden Passion" were all foreign expressions that he assured us would become part of our vocabulary should we ever need his services.
     But the concept that rocked my world was the fact it would be my responsibility to explain "the reasonableness" of my actions.  It became very clear to me, and was backed up by Frank's authoritative counsel, that my conduct would be "reviewed" for its "reasonableness under the circumstances."
     And that, my dear readers, is exactly what is happening in the Martin/Zimmerman case.  Regardless of the fact that three major news outlets (NBC, ABC, and CNN) have admitted to doctoring video and audio tapes to present a fictitious version of what happened that night, it will be your responsibility to prove you acted in self-defense.  Did you act intentionally, knowingly, recklessly or with criminal negligence?  Your actions will be scrutinized and judged by media with an agenda, social groups who don't have all the facts, and a judicial system that will put you under the microscope.  After discussing these legal issues of the case, we pretty much all agreed that, regardless of Trayvon Martin's innocence or guilt, Zimmerman handled the situation badly.
     So, my first thoughts were, why would I ever try to defend myself with a weapon?  And if I felt threatened, would I hesitate, knowing that I would have to face the aftermath of my actions?  Would that split moment of hesitation cost me my life?

     These questions are addressed in an excellent article by Gabe Suarez, a noted tactical trainer from Arizona.  Mr. Suarez states that the controversy in Florida will divide gun owners into two absolute camps.  One, the ”never get involved in anything” crowd will point to this and say “You see…we are right”.  The other, the Captain America Defender of the Innocent crowd will say Zimmerman was right.  But there are no absolutes in this world, and Suarez offered some sage advice.
     He teaches his students that they should seek “distance from disorder” in their lives, and unless something shocks the consciousness of humanity, to mind their own business.  As an example, he compared two different scenarios:  a) a suspicious-looking kid walking the neighborhood, and b) an active shooter in a restaurant.  The first situation is none of your personal business -- call the cops and let them do their job.  The other, if you happen to be there, is in fact your business, and should you decide to take an active part in that situation, your actions could save a lot of lives.
     In other words, you don't know what that kid is up to, or if he even has a weapon, and the important wording here is you don't know!  And it's not your duty or responsibility to find out.  However, if someone is shooting up your local restaurant, there are bodies everywhere, and blood all around, then it would be "reasonable" to assume you would stop the killing spree if you are able to.
    There's another fact we must all consider:  in a perfect world, the justice system would be ruled by truth and fairness.  Too often it is is controlled by politics and money.  And none of this makes me feel any better.  I take my privilege of having a CHL very seriously.  I spend lots of money and time to get expertly trained, so that I do not make the kinds of mistakes that appear to have been made in this controversial case.  I want to feel confident that my training will give me the proper instincts, without worrying about an unprincipled media and a corrupt judicial system.  I believe in being able to properly defend myself, and I will not let those of the "anti-gun" persuasion convince me that society would be better off without the Second Amendment.
     And in just the last couple of days, there is another fly in the ointment, so to speak.  Racial tensions are at the boiling point, with extremists on both sides of the equation calling for revolution.  This situation makes it even more imperative that we distance ourselves from involvement in violence and bloodshed; while simultaneously knowing when it's time to defend ourselves.
     And no one can tell us when that will be.  Everyone has to make their own decision.  The hard truth is that we live in a decaying society, and I choose to take the serious step of training to defend myself.  I am not interested in becoming a hero, so unless I, or my loved ones, are directly harmed then I will not become involved.  I will keep a safe distance from disorder, and unfortunately that means I probably won't be coming to your rescue.  I urge you to take the steps I did and choose to defend yourself; but get the requisite training and know the law.  It's a complicated issue and incidents like the one in Florida will continue to draw attention to a gun culture with inadequate training.  
   

Isaiah 59:14     "So justice is driven back, and righteousness stands at a distance; truth has stumbled in the streets, honesty cannot enter."

Finally! A Good, Inexpensive Red Dot Sight

     "Good" and "Inexpensive" are mutually exclusive when it comes to red dot sights.  There are cheap sights, but they tend to be of lower quality.  And good red dot sights usually cost an arm and a leg.  So most shooters cut a corner and buy what they can afford.  And boy, that can come back and bite you hard!

      So, if you haven't heard, I want to introduce you to the Bushnell TRS-25.  If you check it out, Bushnell is getting some rave reviews on the net.  My husband, the Peace-Loving Warrior, just topped off my new Sig 522 with a TRS-25, and it has been amazing on this lightweight rifle. It performed flawlessly in a recent tactical rifle class I took.  But the real test was an all-day pounding on top of his last AK build (thanks to J.H.).  Even the beating of those .30 cal bullets didn't phase the little TRS.
     It's known for holding a solid zero and taking somewhat of a beating.  And it sure got put through the mill (and believe me, PLW is hard on equipment!)  So, at an average price of $100 (a bit cheaper on the net), the TRS is a good solution for a great price.  Here are some of the specs that make it worthy of your consideration:

1)   a 3MOA dot (size of the dot you're looking at in the sight)
2)   3000+ hour battery life with one 2032 battery (a little, flat watch battery)
3)   Waterproof and fogproof up to 10 feet
4)   Two-year warranty
5)   11 position rheostat control with O-ring
6)   Rubber lens covers
7)   Mounts on a standard picatinny rail
8)   Unlimited eye relief
9)   Great for shooting with either both eyes open, or just one

     For us women, the red dot sight means faster target acquisition and a generally simplified shooting format.  It's as easy as ..... Put the dot on the target; Press the trigger: Reset the sear (also known as catching the link); and Move to the next target.
     And my experience has shown that night shooting with my 522 was no problem.  Targets from 35 yards to 75 yards were easy hits.  (It may have taken a littler longer for my .22 to reach the target than a .30 cal, but the consistent "plinking sound" was evidence that I had hit my mark!)  And I give full credit for my accuracy to the TRS-25.
     In summation, there are better red dots if you want to spend more money.  And I'm pretty sure if you are a Navy Seal in the Sand Box, this probably isn't the sight for that tac op mission.  But if you're looking for a great red dot sight for your pistol, rifle or shotgun, you can't go wrong with the TRS-25.  Check it out and I think you'll be impressed.

Psalm 19:14    "May these words of my mouth and this meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight, LORD, my Rock and my Redeemer."
 

"Mouse" Guns

   
Remember the old cartoon, Tom and Jerry? Tom, the cat, was always in hot pursuit of his mouse nemesis, Jerry.  As Tom closed in, the cartoon mouse would reach into his cartoon pocket and pull an oversize cartoon gun.  This quickly became a game-changer for our friend, Tom.
     Well, a giant mouse gun like that would be awesome, but that's not the real world.  "Mouse gun" is a slang term, fashioned by Gun Culture 1.0 for a derringer-style gun, also known as a pocket gun.  To confuse you even more, all pocket guns aren't "mouse guns", and all derringers aren't "mouse guns".
     I consider "mouse guns" to fall into the size range of a derringer or pocket gun, and the caliber is usually .22, .22mag, .25ACP and .32ACP.  But most quality "mouse guns" (i.e, North American Arms) are .22 or .22mag.

     My husband and I both own mouse guns.  As I said, North American Arms makes a high quality line of single action, 5-shot derringers that we carry when it's not practical to carry our Glock 9mm carry weapons.  I'm almost always able to fit a mouse gun in my purse, and my husband always has his in a front pants pocket.
     But you need to realize that mouse guns are almost always a compromise.  Their short sight radius, small grip, single action, and deep (or inconvenient) carry properties mean that a mouse gun probably isn't your best option, or first option.  But they are one of the most concealable fall-back options available.  But there are other options out there.
     Ruger's LCP and S&W Bodyguard have moved to fill pocket carry niches that the mouse guns (derringers) used to have sole claim on.  And all things being equal, the LCP and Bodyguard in .380 are the better choice, in the knock-down category.  But the mouse gun is much smaller and more concealable than either of these other choices.
     If you choose to carry a mouse gun, for whatever reason, several rules apply.  The first and foremost is Practice, Practice, Practice!  It may sound redundant, but mouse guns require lots of practice --- practice, shooting; practice drawing; and practice reloading.  Having to reload a mouse gun during a fight is not a good idea, so consider your 5 friends in the cylinders the entire party.

     Holding on to the gun requires a modified grip, so practice shooting the gun often in order to compensate for only 2 or 3 fingers on the grip.  And finally, the most important aspect of mouse guns is a term Michael Bane uses often.... "Go to the gun early."
     If you're bringing a mouse gun to the fight, consider yourself already behind the curve.  Gunfights with mouse guns are dangerous business.  To increase your odds with your tiny friend, you must "Go to the gun early!"
     Pocket draws are slow so, if trouble presents itself, discreetly move to the gun and get your grip.  (Did I mention "Go to the gun early?")  Some pockets are tighter than others and require even more time for an effective draw.
     Don't get me wrong --- mouse guns have their place, but they are a compromise from the beginning, so keep the limitations in mind.  But there are times when that little mouse in your pocket might just be your best friend around.

2 Timothy 4:7     "I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith."  

Use It Or Lose It

     My husband, the Peace-Loving Warrior, is an artist.  After just a week or so off from disciplined work in his studio, he notices an immediate decline in his drawing ability.  The motor skills involved with drawing and painting require that they be repeated often; that you pay constant attention to retaining them.
     The same holds true with your shooting skills.  So, listed below are five ways to increase your competence and performance with your pistol.  And let me make it clear, that your first priority is to get REAL training from professionals.  All of these methods below should be reinforced by your instructors.
1.  Learn to draw your gun properly from a trainer.  Then it's your responsibility to practice your draw repeatedly.....Master Grip; Lift and Clear; Roll and Lock; Punch Out.  Do it until it is an unconscious process.  Create muscle memory.

2.  Dry fire in your home.  Of course, before you begin this drill, it is imperative that you do a chamber check, both visually and with your finger.  Have no ammo in the room and maintain your "safe direction" rules. This dry fire drill allows you to practice your trigger press, maintain a sight picture until the trigger breaks, and then follow through.  After the shot, work on catching the link (or resetting the trigger).
3.  Have good gear.  Good holsters, mag pouches and belts only improve your shooting.  Fighting a nylon holster that doesn't support the weapon only leads to frustration.  A Blade Tech Revolution holster costs $30 and solves this problem for a reasonable cost.
4.  Consider buying a shot timer.  A shot timer measures your speed from your draw to the time the shot is fired, as well as additional shots.  A shot timer gives you a frame of reference and a goal to shoot for.  It will be the best money you spend (after your initial training) to improve your speed and accuracy.  No other training tool illustrates the speed vs. accuracy issue, and it helps you find your "sweet spot" between the two.  I would recommend the Pocket Pro 2 from Midway USA.

5.  Go to pistol-training.com.  Select a drill for that week's training regimen.  These drills are fun and tend to work on specifics.  Some work on speed; some on strong hand-only; others are two-hand precision drills.  Some of my favorites are the Bill drill and the Press Six drill.  If the drill requires a special target, like the Press Six drill, then pistol-training.com provides a PDF file of the target you can print out.  Many others require only 3x5 cards or standard IDPA targets.
     If you will follow these simple methods, they will allow you to increase your training, speed and skill without breaking the ammo bank.  I constantly see plinkers who equate training to total rounds spent at the shooting range.  "750 rounds in an hour must mean I did some serious training."  Wrong!  You just wasted 750 rounds of ammo and learned nothing.  Here is a much better use of your time and money:  fifty rounds fired in a two-shot sequence with a polished, safe and proper draw, in under two seconds.  That's what I'm talking about!
     So cutting to the chase, here's what I'm trying to say .... when you start down this path of training how to properly implement your pistol, it's just as important to practice what you've learned.  Practice with a goal in mind; repetition increases competence, and competence keeps you safe.  It may be said too often, but in this case it's true --- Use it or lose it!

2 Corinthians 3:5     "Not that we are competent in ourselves to claim anything for ourselves, but our competence comes from God."        

 

And The Race Is On!

     If you have tried to buy ammo or purchase a gun in the last week or so, then you are very aware that neither are readily available.   I am not claiming to have the definitive answer as to why, but I have a couple of thoughts.  First, let's take a look at the shocking testimony of Defense Secretary Leon Panetta and Joint Chiefs of Staff Chairman General Martin Dempsey in which they indicated that "international permission" (interpret that as meaning the U.N.), rather than Congressional approval, provided a "legal basis" for military action by the United States.  Our national sovereignty is at stake and I think this made a lot of people "wake up and smell the coffee".  You can see this amazing video on Youtube.

     Next, there's all the talk about the 2012 conference to draft a blueprint for a U.N. Arms Treaty Resolution, which the U.S. has endorsed along with 152 other countries.  Among other things, the terms of this Resolution entail tougher gun licensing requirements (and more red tape); a confiscation of all "unauthorized" civilian firearms; it would create an international gun registry; and ban the trade, sale and private ownership of all semi-automatic weapons.  In short, this Resolution would, once again, put our national sovereignty in question, and provide the federal government with a license to assert preemptive powers over states, as guaranteed by the Tenth Amendment, in addition to threatening our Second Amendment rights.  You will find many on the internet that say this is not real, and Second Amendment advocates are exaggerating and using scare tactics.
     But when former U.N. ambassador John Bolton cautions gun owners to take this initiative seriously, I pay attention:  he states that the U.N. "is trying to act as though this is really just a treaty about international arms trade between nation states, but there is no doubt that the real agenda here is domestic firearms control."

     The so-called "run on guns" is not just some rumor being passed around by crazy gun-loving citizens.  I have personally witnessed it.  Remember the post on my new Sig522 rifle that performed like a dream during my recent rifle training class?  Well my husband got a little jealous, and decided he wanted one as well, and was amazed to find that there wasn't one available anywhere, except online, and at an inflated price.  A recent check revealed that even those were no longer available.  It couldn't be found at any of the reputable gun brokers in our area; or any of the Big Box gun dealers --- nowhere!  And it's not just popular firearms.... ammunition is disappearing like crazy, too!  A local gun shop said he is worried....what he has on the shelves is all there is .... and the distributors are not filling new orders.  His theory?  Some suggest that dealers did not want to carry inventory over into the new year for income tax purposes, so they were careful with over-ordering.   The real question is why are the Distributors short on their end?  No one can really answer that question.  The only thing that is certain is that the ammo supply is drying up fast and the run we experienced in 2009 seems to have started again.
     Though we don't know the specifics of what's going on, people are overly concerned and are trying to make sure they don't get caught short.  If you have a theory, I'd be interested in hearing it.  

Hebrews 12:1      "Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles.  And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us."

The Only Good Lawyer Is ......

     ..... the Criminal Defense Lawyer that I visited with yesterday.  I was a little surprised when my husband announced that he had made an appointment with a lawyer for us to sit down and discuss retaining him in case we ever needed him.  "Why on earth would we ever need a Criminal Defense Lawyer?", I asked, with just a hint of panic in my voice.  Was there something he wasn't telling me?  Then he explained the wisdom of his decision, and that is what I want to share with you today.
     It is no secret that, in our household, we exercise our Second Amendment rights.  And I have also spoken out, loud and clear, about the value of professional and certified training.  If you are going to carry a firearm for self-protection, you better know 1)  how to safely handle your weapon,  2)  the laws for concealed carry in your state (and any states you may travel to/through,  3)  how to conduct yourself in a gunfight and execute a "good" shooting, and  4)  God-forbid, if you are involved in a shooting, who to call as legal counsel.

     That's where "Frank D." comes in.  For obvious reasons, I won't publicly announce this attorney's name, but suffice it to say, he left a lasting impression.  On the drive to this lawyer's office, my husband and I discussed what we expected to gain by meeting with Frank.  Since we are both passionate believers in gun training, which includes how to avoid a gunfight, we hoped that we would never have need of Frank's services.  But we also see the decay of our society, and being realistic, realize that it is not out of the question that some circumstance would make it necessary for either one of us to draw our weapon in an act of self-defense.  I can feel my heart beat faster just thinking what the after-math of that situation would be like!
     Should we be involved in a shooting, whether it be a "good" shoot or a "bad" shoot, it would make things a lot easier to deal with, knowing we had Frank's business card in our wallet and knew we could count on him to guide us through the legal maze that would follow.  We wanted to pay for an hour of Frank's time to introduce ourselves, state our philosophy on gun ownership, show that we take our right to carry arms seriously, and walk away knowing that he was in our corner, should the unimaginable happen.

     And Frank did not disappoint!   If I had to use one word to describe him, it would be "tenacious".   He was unyielding and unshakeable in his support of the Second Amendment, and as firm in his advice on how to conduct ourselves after an encounter with an assailant.   He advised us how to handle the police in a variety of situations, from a "rogue" cop making a traffic stop, to the protocol for calling in a crime; whether you only drew your weapon, or actually were forced to fire in order to protect yourself.   His advice also included how to de-escalate a situation, and how to politely conduct an interview with law enforcement, no matter what the situation--- "Smile, ask permission, and don't antagonize; yet, never give away your rights."
     All this valuable counsel was given with exaggerated gestures, a piercing stare and entertaining stories of case studies.  As it turns out, Frank has enjoyed and mastered much of the same training regimens we have, and will soon be conducting an evening seminar for other Second Amendment practitioners on the very subjects we discussed.   That was welcome news!  As a gun owner, I have been feeling a mounting pressure; my God-given right to protect myself is being portrayed as outdated and unnecessary.  Even to the point that we are targeted as being the center of the problem ourselves! So I left his office feeling not quite so isolated and alone.   I felt that there was a layer of protection between me and "the system" that wants to take away my only effective method of protecting myself.
     So if you haven't considered making the acquaintance of a friendly, Second-Amendment-loving Criminal Attorney, I suggest you do.  As Frank pointed out, the law of averages are you will never need his services.  But if your number comes up, you'll want to have your own "Frank" just a phone call away.

Proverbs 15:22     "Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed."

A Force To Be Reckoned With

     This past weekend I increased my confidence in being able to defend myself.  Although a SHTF scenario is always in the back of my mind, I live in the country, and I know that if I am threatened, there is more than likely no one that is coming to my aid in time.  I need to know that I can stop a threat if it presents itself, and that means man or animal.

     So with that in mind, I signed up for a 12-hour training class on Saturday and showed up at 8:00 with my brand new SIG522 semi-automatic rifle.  Now before all you guys start giving your opinions that your AKs and ARs have more man-stopping power, I totally agree!  But hear me out, and let me give you a few reasons why this .22, in a military-style platform, is the perfect self-defense rifle for your wife or daughter.
     First of all, I was one of 25 shooters training that day, and I had no problem running my gun the entire 12 hours we were on the range.  There were a couple of 10-22's that went down; one broke a part and the other just quit running because of carbon and powder build-up.  There was also a Smith and Wesson M&P that was a disaster.  We had to stop the training for lengthy sessions while we first scoured the ground for a lost extractor spring, and then again when the extractor broke altogether.  There were two other Sigs along with mine, and we shot over 300 rounds that day, no stoppages.  The guys with the ARs had periodic problems; nothing major, but they can't claim the same success rate.

     But one of the main reasons that I recommend this rifle is because it allows me to train for that many hours without the recoil of the full-size battle rifles.  I know that the Sig isn't a man-stopper and doesn't have the knock-down power of an AK or AR, but when I can increase my confidence by getting all my hits on the target and keep my gun running, I'm still a valuable asset in any fight.  There aren't too many bad guys that will be expecting a woman who can defend her home and do it with both precision and faith in herself.
     I contend that a woman who can shoot a SIG522 and repeatedly hit her target, using a 25-round mag and a red-dot site is a greater asset than a woman who has trouble training all day with a full-size rifle and can't get her hits.  This rifle also allows me to get off 6 or 7 rounds of rapid fire with recoil management and hitting the target, versus 1 or 2 rounds fighting the recoil of the heavier rifles, and more than likely giving up accuracy.  The one thing I know for sure is this:  I can be a good support system for my husband with this rifle.

     Another aspect of this rifle that appeals to me is the collapsible/foldable and locking stock.  It makes it easy for transporting and storage.  And consider this: the cost of my ammo.  I trained for 12 hours, shooting approximately 300 rounds at a cost of $24.  Other shooters using the AK or AR platforms, shot the same amount of ammo and it cost them around $84.  So owning a SIG522 benefits your wallet, too.  What husband doesn't find that factor appealing?
     And if I still haven't convinced you, and you're hell-bent on diminishing the effectiveness of my new self-defense weapon, well......I invite you to step out there and let me zap you with a few rounds from about 10 yards and see if you still think it's not a man-stopper!  I may not be able to claim the cool factor, or massive firing power, and the sound of my .22 bullet "plinking" against the metal target isn't as formidable as a .223 round, but I guarantee you that I'll make my shots count when they have to and the bad guys will think twice about threatening me or my family.

Psalm 27:3     "Though an army besiege me, my heart will not fear; though war break out against me, even then I will be confident."

Gun Culture 2.0: OODA Loop and Getting Off The X

     One of my greatest accomplishments this past year was completing the 3-day Defensive Training course offered by John Farnam.  I won't lie, I didn't get much sleep the night before we began the intense gun training.  I had heard the stories....both John and his wife, Vickie, were no-nonsense, passionate, and sometimes harsh instructors.  Did I even belong here, with men and women who knew more than I did?  Would I be able to perform to their expectations?  And most importantly, would I get yelled at? 

     Because, you see, for more than 30 years John Farnam has been teaching defensive firearms techniques to police departments, federal and state agencies, and even foreign governments.  I knew I had a lot to learn!  And they are serious task-masters; there's no holding your hand or soothing words.  The information this man and his wife have to offer has been battle-tested, so to speak, and what they teach you can save your life.  Today, I want to share a couple of the important concepts they taught us.
     I can hear John's booming voice in my head:  "You need to understand that, when you are attacked, the assault is taking place for two reasons:
1)   The attackers believe they have something to gain, and
2)   You are where the attackers want you to be.
     In order to give ourselves the greatest advantage for staying safe, John and Vickie taught us to apply a method called OODA Loop.  This is what it stands for:

OBSERVATION --  Scan the environment and gather information from it.

ORIENTATION --  Form a mental image of your circumstances.

DECISION --  Consider options and select a subsequent course of action.

ACTION --  Carry out your decision.  Once the result of that decision is observed, you start over.

     So what are we to take away from all this information?  First of all, we have to realize that most criminals will pick out their victim and then stalk them until they perceive they have them in a weak position.  They will then begin to get aggressive, probing for an advantage, and then proceed to a full-on attack.  You need to get this picture!  The bad guys wouldn't be attacking if you weren't where they wanted you to be.
     If you're aware of your surroundings, you should pick up on this threat and get to a place where the criminal doesn't want you to be or didn't expect you to go --- such as a strong covered position (perhaps, behind a parked car, or a low wall).  But you need to remember something else, and again I hear John's direction:  "Anyone, in any position, armed with any weapon, can be successfully attacked, provided attackers are willing to pay the price."  His advice?  "Make the price so high, that no sane attacker will press the issue."
     So, if I've picked up on the threat, put some distance between me and my attacker, and positioned myself behind some protective covering....and he's still advancing, what do I do?  John and Vickie offered a simple, but effective method of frustrating your attacker.  Remember that if your attacker is still pressing forward, he perceives that he has the advantage.  The simple act of quickly moving laterally; taking a step or two to your right or left, is always advisable, no matter what your situation.
       Just getting away from where you were positioned will frustrate the attack plan of most criminals.  You have to take the advantage away from the attacker.  The second or two it takes him to adjust to your move, could give you the time to successfully fire and stop the attack.  John refers to this method as "Getting Off the X!"

     Applying this method, after implementing OODA Loop, can quickly stack the deck in your favor.  We practiced different scenarios of being approached by a potential attacker; how to be observant, orient ourselves to the situation, decide how to act, and then follow through.  And over and over and over, you heard, "MOVE!  Get off the X!" I want you to get this!  By moving off the X, you instantly take the advantage away from your attacker. And that simple move can save your life.
     After two days of this repetitive training, it stuck.  I graduated with my Red Pin; a symbol that proclaims to all that I have successfully completed a Farnam Defensive Training course.  I have to admit.... I walk a little prouder now!

Deuteronomy 23:14    "For the LORD your God moves about in your camp to protect you and deliver your enemies to you."